Introducing Mrs Collins

by Rachel Parris

She wrote herself out of the story. Now she's daring to want more.
Readers love Rachel Parris's 'Warm witty and wise' RICHARD OSMAN
'Hilarious, wise and heart breaking' SARA PASCOE
'The perfect Austen fix. Delightful, beguiling and accomplished!' JANICE HALLETT
'Genuinely funny and moving. I enjoyed every second. It was like spending time with old friends' ALICE WYNN
'Parris has achieved a remarkable feat... Jane would be very amused indeed' CARIAD LLOYD
'Funny, then suddenly deep, then deeply romantic. A marvellous and mighty literary magic trick. Rather like the work of another author I love, born 250 years ago' RICHARD CURTIS

Charlotte Lucas has never been a romantic. Practical to a fault, she accepted Mr Collins's proposal with clear eyes and a steady heart, trading passion for security. Life at Hunsford Parsonage may be quiet and predictable, but it is hers to manage - and she's determined to make the best of it, whatever Elizabeth Bennet may think.

That is, until an unexpected guest at Rosings Park turns Charlotte's careful world on its head. He sees her, challenges her - and a spark is lit. But true contentment is not only about who you choose to love, but who you choose to be. For the first time, she has playing by the rules kept her on the sidelines of her own life?

Mrs Collins, the Pride and Prejudice heroine you never knew you needed.

Charlotte Lucas finally becomes the heroine of her own story in this heartfelt and mesmerising sequel to Pride and Prejudice, written by comedian and Austentatious founding member Rachel Parris to coincide with Jane Austen's 250th birthday.

PRAISE FOR RACHEL PARRIS
'Warm witty and wise' RICHARD OSMAN
'Hilarious, wise and heart breaking' SARA PASCOE
'Rachel is one of my favourite comedians. This book is warm, wise and hilarious. It is written in her comic voice - a voice she mainly has used to tell me off, so I am thrilled to see it deployed in this way' NISH KUMAR

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Historical, Audiobook, Retellings, Regency

386 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 4, 2025

Reviews

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.

If you have been following my reviews for a while, you know I cannot resist anything influenced by Jane Austen. Introducing Mrs. Collins is certainly one of the best.

Charlotte Lucas, Elizabeth Bennett's bestie, has always been one of my favourite characters in the original P& P, and Rachel Parris does her justice. I might not always have agreed with Charlotte's choices in the novel, but I was invested in her story. Mr. Collins is still a dullard, but Rachel Parris did make me feel a little empathy for him. Just a smidge, but it was there.

What makes the novel work better than other adaptations is that there is a balance between the source material and a new exploration of Charlotte Lucas that made me invested rather than bored.

One of my favourite reads of 2025.





Publication Date 04/11/25
Goodreads Review 27/12/25

[Tania · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm always a bit wary of Jane Austen retellings, but I really enjoy Rachel Parris as a comedian, particularly when she is on 'I'm Sorry I haven't a Clue', and she is the founder of Austentatious, so I thought this one might be a good one. It was.

Charlotte Lucas is getting on a bit at 27, (for those times), if she doesn't marry she will be left with next to nothing, and a life where she doesn't belong anywhere, so she accepts Mr Collins, a man beneath her in both status and intellect. (I heard an astonishing figure of 'genteel women in a situation she would have been in had she not married, who had turned to prostitution to be able to live - so "judge not lest ye be judged"). Anyway, she finds to her surprise that one of the secondary characters from P&P is attracted to her, as she is to him.

It rarely intersects with the text, as once she married him she is largely out of the story, and this is her story. There are a couple of points where this diverges from the main text, but in an authors note, she 'fesses up and explains why. All in all, I found it very readable, enjoyed the story, and found the ending very satisfying. I even came to like both Me Collins and Lady Catherine de Bourgh,

Nice to see a happy ending for Charlotte, and I did enjoy Wickham date in this one.

*Many thanks to Netgally and the publishers for a copy in exchange for an honest opinion. *

[Jillian · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’ve read or seen P&P, you know Charlotte married a verbally incontinent clergyman well below her social intellect and likely spent the rest of her days praying her husband wouldn’t be offered another potato. As expected, being married to Mr. Collins is comparable to suffering a perpetual, low-grade migraine, so when the non-Darcy Fitzwilliam takes a shine to Charlotte, her resistance is short-lived. I don’t condone infidelity, but I do lend fluidity to the rules for women with no means or opportunity for a future outside of marriage. So before you clutch your pearls, just remember the real villain is the deeply embedded misogyny of the era. As a P&P acolyte, I loved the continuation of Charlotte’s story and the significant role Lady Catherine played in shaping the outcome. Mr. Collins didn’t inspire me, but he earned my respect. Acquiring the wholehearted favor of Lady Catherine was no small feat, and one I’d sooner fight a wild bear than dare attempt myself.

*Thank you to Hodder for this ARC*

[Sheila · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, Introducing Mrs. Collins, by Rachel Parris, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Charlotte Lucas did not marry for love, I dont think she should of married at all, if she was going to cheat on her husband.

[eyes.2c · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charlotte Lucas—a new perspective!

Fascinating, hypothetical insight into Charlotte Lucas (Elizabeth Bennett’s friend) and Mr Colins (the heir to Elizabeth Bennett’s home)—their personalities, their formative interactions, and their marriage.
I’ve often wondered about Charlotte, her marriage to Mr. Collins, her relationship with her husband’s patron Lady Catherine de Bourgh.
Parris has given us an alternative view of Charlottes life, the off the page life. They take center stage.
I had thought her life would be no more than a constrained unhappy expanse marching towards finality. I’m so glad Parris has a richer insight than me.
We see the painful awareness of each other of Catherine and Mr. Collins, the regulation of their lives, and the changes that come.
Charlotte’s life takes some twists and turns, but always she returns to the status quo.
Her future becomes remarkable, aided by a Mr. Collins none of us saw, including Charlotte herself. A Mr. Collins who socially was awkward, and besieged by doubt ,yet honorable and caring. I came to appreciate some things about him, and understand reasons for those character traits didn’t like.
Charlotte in the end came to know love.
An enriching novel that takes us down paths well trodden, unfolding and maturing as summer turns to autumn.

A Little Brown ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.

[Andy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful addition to the Jane-iverse, the story of Charlotte Lucas from Pride and Prejudice. I thought to start with that the author had not quite matched the sparkle of Pride and Prejudice’s tone, but of course she hadn’t - Charlotte Lucas is the principal character this time, not Lizzie B. So what you get is something with Pride and Prejudice’s characters with something like Persuasion’s tone. Ever so slightly, and sensitively modernised.

I thoroughly enjoyed being ‘in’ the story, I was in no hurry to finish. This is of course partly Austen’s fault - a wonderful cast and back story. But it takes a sure touch and a thoughtful mind to carry these on successfully. Rachel Parris has done this. Recommended for all Austen fans, but it would work just as well if you’d never read P+P I think.

[Sophia]

Charlotte shines in author Rachel Parris’ debut novel effort. Charlotte is the voice of every woman in history who had to push dreams to the side for the practical and her story was well-told.

My full review will post at The Quill Ink TBA.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.

I don't think I have ever read another Pride and Prejudice that has captured Mr. Collins quite so well. Every single word he spoke or the letters he wrote, I could see coming straight from the Jane Austen novel. I loved how she developed his character, showing flashbacks from his life and how hard he tried to be a good husband. How having Elizabeth and Darcy stay with them affected him, but he never said anything because it made his wife happy. Yet still showing all his faults.

On the other hand, she totally changed the character of Charlotte. I am not saying that she couldn't have found a passionate love. I just can't imagine her ever cheating and think Jane Austen might have a heart attack (not really but kinda). at the thought. She could have been demisexual instead of asexual. More than she immediately was bored and immediately didn't like anything about her life.

It wasn’t so much that the author changed Charlotte's character since I have read adaptations that have done that before. It's that you know the only way Charlotte can get a HEA is for her husband to die. Which, Mr. Collins deserved the HEA in the book. Not Charlotte. Cheaters don't deserve a happily ever after. Maybe just an Ordinary Ever After (got that term from another book I just read . . . Until the Clock Strikes Midnight by Alechia Dow). I just shouldn't have to hope someone dies in a rom-com to get to the happy ending.

All that being said, I definitely will be looking into other books by this author in the future.

[Anais (atrailofpages) · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a reimagining of Charlotte and how her story went after marrying Mr. Collins. I enjoyed seeing characters from Pride and Prejudice make their appearances and kind of mix together that story with Charlotte’s story. The unique way of blending past with present and letters in between. I wanted to like this so much.

I liked how the author kind of took their own spin on Charlotte’s story, allowing her the chance of a true passionate romance. However, the way it plays out I am NOT okay with.

I thought it was interesting to portray Mr. Collins as someone who’s just awkward around people. I ended up really liking his character and he deserved better. So so much better. And the way his story plays out I think was just cruel.

Charlotte I disliked immensely. She made choices and decisions that were about herself only. She didn’t HAVE to marry Mr. Collins in this take on her story, but she did, and she did not HAVE to follow through the wants or cravings she had. It wasn’t fair to Mr. Collins and I was so mad that he seemed like a decent guy, but Charlotte wouldn’t communicate with him about her desires, she didn’t give him a chance. Instead of communicating with him, she chose to do things that would never have happened to the Charlotte I know during that time period, and Catherine would NEVER have been as okay with it as she seemed to be. I knew getting into this book that there would be forbidden romantic feelings. But I was so shocked when she acted on those feelings.

And I know this is a reimagining of her story, but I disagree with what happened and I don’t believe this would have happened during that time period to a literal smart woman that she is.

The writing is good and I know there are readers who will enjoy this, but I did not.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! It was the book I didn't know I needed but came at just the right time. I loved reading Mrs Collins story, it was heartfelt and true to Jane Austen in style apart from slightly more sex alluded too - which was a great addition! It was so engrossing I ended up walking down the street still reading it! It was interesting having more understanding of Mr Collins and a tender and heartfelt story that made me smile. I hope there will be more! ✨📚

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved being back in Austen’s world which begins at the point when Charlotte accepts Mr Collins proposal. There were many touching points with Pride and Prejudice and I almost felt like an insider, recognising characters and knowing what was happening off the page as it were. Charlotte is a wonderful character. She is practical and although not necessarily happy in her marriage, is resigned to her lot. We see the bright and funny side of her character and get to know her innermost thoughts and dreams.

Mr Collins, although he’s still rather dull let’s be honest, comes across as an altogether more sympathetic character and I came to rather like him. Even Lady Catherine comes across as slightly more sensitive, especially in the way she to responds to Charlotte at a difficult time for her. I particularly liked the housekeeper Mrs Brooke, the way she cared for Charlotte and was unfailingly loyal to her. Many chapters also contained letters from various characters and I thought this was a nice touch. In an era where people would rely heavily on letters for news, this was a great way of filling in details of what was happening at Longbourn, at Lucas Lodge, at Pemberley and other places.

Introducing Mrs Collins felt very true to the spirit of Austen’s writing and to Pride and Prejudice, although some of the behaviours might have shocked Austen. Or maybe not, but she certainly wouldn’t have been able to write about such delicate matters. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and would happily read further books by this author about Charlotte, or perhaps one of the other characters in Pride and Prejudice. Introducing Mrs Collins is one my favourite reads this year.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book so much. It was fun to get more of the P&P world and seeing Charlotte get her happy ending. I spent a good part of this book anxious how things would turn out and wondering how this could possibly end with Charlotte getting everything she wants and everything she honestly deserves. I really enjoyed the depth and more of the characters that I disliked in the OG book, especially Lady Catherine and Mr Collins- his backstory in particular was heartbreaking.

I didn’t necessarily love some of the flashbacks but I do think that they helped with character development, so I get why they were used.

I LOVE that a certain villian got his comeuppance, especially after his last evil deed.

Overall, if you enjoyed the OG P&P and want more of flawed but REAL characters check this out.

I want to end with the last line of the book, because it ends so perfectly, “She sat back, convinced that, whether by choice or by luck, she had found her peace.”

Big thanks to Kathleen Quinlan(Hachette Book Group) and Netgalley for allowing me this ARC.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just a bunch of people going to each other’s houses.

(really good)

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Thank you to Hachette Book Group for providing me with a gifted ebook copy of Introducing Mrs Collins through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Introducing Mrs Collins is a delightful look at Charlotte's character, from Pride & Prejudice, and her life after marrying Mr. Collins. If you are a fan of the original book, this story brings in the characters you already know and love...and some that are unloved! I always enjoy these regency type stories and seeing how women navigated their lives when so many freedoms were withheld from them.

Charlotte is a perfect FMC, who is no nonsense and ready to take control of her life, as much as within her bounds, until she finds an unexpected passion that makes her rethink her practical manner. I was completely in love with this story, up until Parris introduced the one trope that I don't enjoy in my books. This did affect my rating, and it's the only reason I brought it down to 3.5 stars, because I really did enjoy the writing and the characters.

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭:
* Female Frienships
* Societal Expectations
* Marriage of Convenience
* Letter Correspondence
* Complicated Relationships
* Loss & Grief

𝐈𝐬 𝐈𝐭 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐲?
🥶 (No)

If you are a fan of regency romance, with characters who make difficult decisions, while navigating everyday life, then I think you would enjoy Introducing Mrs Collins.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

If a marriage lacks passion, it is to be hoped that it will make up for it in etiquette. from Introducing Mrs. Collins by Rachel Parris

I am drawn to novels based on Jane Austen’s more minor characters because it’s always interesting to imagine their stories.

Charlotte Lucas from Pride and Prejudice is a foil to Elizabeth Bennet. Rachel Parris offers the practical Charlotte we know from Austen. Lizzie is lucky to marry for love–and wealth, a wish fulfillment fantasy that appeals to readers across time. But Charlotte marries Mr. Collins for practical reasons. She must consider a future dependent on others or by this marriage a home of her own with an inferior man she hopes to handle.

Charlotte knows Mr. Collin’s strengths–kindness, respect, a timidity that hides deep feelings. And she knows his weaknesses, especially in the marriage bed. If they have no children and Mr. Collins passes first, Charlotte will be no better off than before her marriage–without home or family of her own.

We learn about Mr. Collins’s life and his strengths, and we come to respect him. Lady de Bourgh knows Mrs. Collins is trustworthy and dependable, and she comes to respect Charlotte, offering her piano for practise.

Our task in this life is to find happiness in what we are afforded and to improve what we find. from Introducing Mrs. Collins by Rachel Parris

The Bennett family appear in the novel as the women visit each other’s homes. A self-absorbed Lizzy does not hold up well against Charlotte. Wickham proves to still be a cad and a bad husband to Lydia.

The Colllins are often at table at Rosings and that is how Charlotte came to know Colonel Fitzwilliam. Their friendship and respects grow into attraction, forcing Charlotte to make grave decisions.

Charlotte’s happiness is established, threatened, reclaimed, lost, and reclaimed again over three busy years. It is an entertaining and fun read that will appeal to the romantics among us.

Thanks to the publisher for a free book through NetGalley.

[AcademicEditor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel accomplishes the rare feat of feeling both faithful to its source material and yet original. As a longtime fan of Pride and Prejudice, I was captivated by this empathetic and beautifully written exploration of Charlotte Lucas’s life.

The greatest strength of this novel is Parris’s masterful reimagining of characters who often serve as mere antagonists or comic relief in Austen’s world. Mr. Collins is no longer just a pompous fool, but a man shaped by his own history and insecurities, whose earnest, if clumsy, efforts to be a good husband become surprisingly moving. Lady Catherine de Bourgh is granted layers of understanding (and feminism!) that reframe her domineering nature. Charlotte's parents are loving and well-meaning instead of just one-dimensional social climbers. Parris treats these characters with a compassionate humanity that doesn’t erase their flaws, but explains them.

At the heart of it all is Charlotte, finally given the complex interiority she deserves. Her practicality is a survival skill, and watching her carefully built world of security become unsettled by unexpected connection and intellectual spark is utterly compelling. The central relationship that develops is handled with exquisite slow-burn tension and a deep respect for the emotional realities of the era.

Remarkably, this story stands firmly on its own. The prose echoes Austen’s cadence without feeling like pastiche. The central dilemma of a woman daring to question a "sensible" choice and yearn for something more is timeless. You do not need to know every detail of P&P to be moved by Charlotte’s struggle for autonomy and connection; it is simply a wonderful, heartfelt historical novel in its own right.

Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to review a temporary digital ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.

[Linden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Readers of Pride and Prejudice may have wondered about Elizabeth’s best friend Charlotte, who married Mr. Collins. This novel presents a wonderful imagining of her life with him, giving us background on his difficult childhood, and insight into his character. Parris is an exceptional writer, and she has not only researched the period but also has a great understanding of Jane Austin and the people of Pride and Prejudice. A must read for anyone who enjoyed the Austen classic.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

Introducing Mrs. Collins found me cheering for Charlotte Lucas Collins as she explores a second chance at happiness. Every Janeite and histficrom fan will adore this delightful story written by comedian and Austentatious founding member Rachel Parris and published to coincide with Jane Austen's 250th birthday year. Huzzah!

[Jeannine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel Parris made me CRY for Collins and actually LIKE Lady Catherine de Bourgh! What is this witchcraft?

My bar for Jane Austen pastiche is sky-high and Rachel Parris sails over it with Introducing Mrs. Collins. While we get to see a few parts of the Pride & Prejudice story from Charlotte Lucas' point of view, this story mostly imagines Charlotte's life as Mrs. Collins apart from the story we all know well. Mr. Collins, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Captain Fitzwilliam, Anne de Bourgh, and Anne de Bourgh are the main characters here. The further development of those secondary characters is beautifully done and changes my feelings for them (as evident from my opening statement).

Anyone who liked Charlotte before will love her after reading this. Anyone who was critical of her choice to marry Collins in P&P will most likely soften their stance. We get to see Charlotte grapple with that decision to marry Collins and sometimes regret it. We get to see events in Collins' and Charlotte's pasts that made them the characters they are.

A considerable amount of this book takes place at Rosings, where we get to see Lady Catherine, Anne, and Captain Fitzwilliam. Charlotte and Captain Fitzwilliam become friends and their comfort with each other is noticed by Lady Catherine.

The villain in the story is a new character - a curate hired by Mr. Collins. He ingratiates himself with Lady Catherine and is loved by members of the parish, but he also takes note of the close relationship between Charlotte and Captain Fitzwilliam and tries to capitalize on his observations. The third act is when this all comes to a head and that's always where scenes with Mr. Collins had me in tears. Who knew the demented chicken could make me feel this way?

The writing here is lovely and I found myself growing a little sad as I was getting towards the end of the book. The epilogue was a wonderful gift that jumped ahead a few years so we could see Charlotte, Lizzie, and even Jane together again.

[Sarah Weeks-Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a classic novel, upon reaching a significant anniversary of its author, will be in want of a spin-off. And that is exactly what we have with comedian Rachel Parris’s Introducing Mrs Collins. As a verified Austenite and an ensemble member of the improvised Jane Austen show Austentatious, Parris is well-versed in the life and words of one of Britain’s most beloved authors. She captures perfectly the tone of Pride and Prejudice and takes the reader on a fun, whimsical journey in the world of Lizzie Bennett and Mr Darcy.

Introducing Mrs Collins is the story of Charlotte Lucas, friend of Lizzie and memable inspiration to us all. Though she began Pride and Prejudice as twenty-seven, without prospects, and already a burden to her parents, Charlotte quickly charms the reader with her practicality and caring nature. As the novel progresses and Charlotte’s horizons expand, she begins to thrive as a curate’s wife, experiences love and loss of her own, and wonders if she deserves more than just settling in life. The story is told completely from Charlotte’s point-of-view but features cameos from many other beloved characters, both in person and through letters. Parris manages to capture Mrs Bennett’s self-indulgence, Mr Bennett’s wit, and Lizzie’s slight self-centredness perfectly. Though the story begins within Pride and Prejudice, the narrative expands and extends beyond the events of its parent novel.

One of the reasons I feel that this book was so enjoyable is that Charlotte, though she played an important role in Pride and Prejudice, is not intimately involved in the action of that novel, meaning that her story could expand organically alongside that of Lizzie and Darcy. Both characters still feature in the novel and the scenes at Rosings unfold as written by Austen, but Parris expands on what Charlotte’s experience might have happened once Lizzie returns to Longbourn. Lady Catherine plays a much larger role in Introducing Mrs Collins, and it was surprisingly enjoyable to not only play witness to even more of her outrageous declarations, but to also experience her as more than just an imposition to her nephew’s love story. Indeed, Charlotte’s relationship with Lady Catherine is one of the most rewarding in the whole novel.

In addition to the esteemed patroness from Rosings, we also form more of an acquaintance with Mr Collins (sadly, there was a distinct lack of boiled potatoes), Colonel Fitzwilliam, and the Lucas family in general. Charlotte’s relationship with her mother is so heartwarming and serves as a distinct comparison with the Bennett’s sisters’ relationship with their own overbearing mother. Filled with joy, whimsy, love, loss, and perseverance, Introducing Mrs Collins is a truly enjoyable novel that will capture the hearts of Austen fans and will be a great addition to the 250th Jane Austen tributes.

[Jillian Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

With 2025 representing the 250th birthday of the beloved Jane Austen, a number of Austen-inspired contemporary novels have shown up on my reading radar. Choosing to enter the world of Jane Austen, writing new futures for her characters and attempting to bring to life famous fictional estates such as Pemberley and Longbourne is an audacious undertaking that author Rachel Parris has executed rather successfully. Giving more page time to Lizzie Bennet’s best friend Charlotte Lucas is something fan-fiction writers often like to do, but what sets this Austen retelling apart to me is how lovingly and realistically rendered the familiar world of Pride and Prejudice felt throughout the story. I don’t tend to hold writers of novels like this to the same standard of writing one might find in an Austen novel, but the writing quality of this retelling was more than adequate to both set the appropriate tone and sweep me up in the story without seeming to try too hard to emulate Austen herself.

Readers are likely familiar with the fate of Charlotte Lucas in the original Pride and Prejudice text and her famous response to her best friend’s shock at Charlotte’s agreeing to marry the respectable but infinitely dull and awkward Mr Collins: “I’m 27 years old. I've no money and no prospects. I'm already a burden to my parents. And I'm frightened. So don't judge me, Lizzie, don't you dare judge me.”

Picking up where Charlotte’s story tapers off in Pride and Prejudice, and diving into the past to give context to both Charlotte and Mr Collins’ lives prior to their marriage, this novel explores a passionless relationship that is not without its intimacies and sweet moments, a marriage of convenience that leaves Charlotte wondering if she shouldn’t have settled and Mr Collins bewildered by his independent wife and his new marital duties.

I loved the epistolary element of this book. I could have read an entire book comprised of letters between Charlotte and Elizabeth as they each experienced married life. Without giving away too much, I’ll say I was worried that the author would villainize Mr Collins to excuse the affair between Mrs Collins and another man, but the whole thing was handled with grace and tenderness toward all parties involved.

Overall, this was such a beautiful reimagining of one of my favorite stories of all time and I’d encourage any reader who wants a more literary fan-fiction experience to check this one out. I sincerely hope Rachel Parris chooses to keep writing in Austen’s world (can we get a retelling of Jane Fairfax’s life next, please??).

Thank you to NetGalley and Little, Brown, and Company for the opportunity to be an early reader of this title!

[Gayle (OutsmartYourShelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

In 'Pride & Prejudice' Elizabeth's close friend, Charlotte Lucas says "I am not romantic, you know; I never was. I ask only a comfortable home."

Tall & considered plain at the side of her sister & friends, the Bennetts, 27-year-old Charlotte is used to being overlooked, so when Mr Collins proposes to her she accepts. She chooses to follow her head & not her heart when marrying Mr Collins, hoping to be content with her lot & yet finds that maybe romantic love may not be out of her reach after all.

I've read several P&P reimaginings, but never anything from the point of view of Charlotte Lucas. I wasn't sure what to expect as most of Charlotte's married life takes off the page, but I think the author was pretty faithful to the characters for the most part. By the end of it, I had almost come to like Lady Catherine de Bourgh! It also manages to humanise Mr Collins a little more.

Some may disagree with Charlotte's actions, but I think the fact that the patriarchal nature of Regency society, forcing middle & upper-class women to marry to not become a burden to their families, but unable to earn their own money, puts Charlotte into a situation she would not perhaps have chosen had other alternatives been available.

Overall, it's a well-written story which makes a side character from the original come to life on the page. I really enjoyed it & I'm not a big reader of romance.

My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Hodder & Stoughton, for the opportunity to read an ARC.

TWs: infidelity, sexual assault, pregnancy, miscarriage, misogyny

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I cannot say enough wonderful things about this book. When I found out that Rachel Parris (who, I must admit, was one of my favorite actors involved in the improv group Austentatious) had written a Jane Austen retelling, I wanted to find any means to read and review it. Based on her wit and creativity that I had seen onstage, I knew anything she wrote would be good. However, this book is far more than just funny. In fact, very little of it is funny, and yet I enjoyed it immensely. Almost every character is treated with such compassion that it was a joy to read, and it changed my perspective on a couple of characters with whom I had previously had very little patience. Mr. Wickham is, of course, given the treatment that he deserves, but every other character is given such a dramatically fresh perspective, all of which are based on clues from the original text. I am thoroughly impressed and hope that this is not Parris' only literary adventure, Austen-based or otherwise.

[Savanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

having never read any of the classic novels including pride and prejudice, I was surprised at how easily I fell into this and absolutely loved the characters... I went from 'i might have to skip this month's book club book' to 'i love Charlotte and her entire personality '.

it made me have a lot more warmth towards Mr Collins, who I originally thought was quite a slimy, big-headed individual to someone who genuinely cared for his wife..

I just loved it!

[Bevany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. As a Jane Austin lover, I liked this take on Charlotte story. Her bravery, strength, and personality really came out in such a great way.

[Erin Hawley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Pride and Prejudice spin off for the semiquincentennial (250th) of Jane Austen's birth! I have read a ton of Jane Austen retellings and adaptations, particularly for Pride and Prejudice, and this is one of the best!

It is very apparent the author knows her Austen, not just the characters and settings, but also the spirit, humor, and triumph of Austen writing. The prose of this book felt very period appropriate without the dust of nineteenth century style. I also found it very impressive that the author was able to make me empathize with Mr Collins and Lady Catherine, who are canonically deeply unsympathetic characters. There are other pieces that will be fun for P and P fans, glimpses of Charlotte's perspective on Wickham, Darcy and Elizabeth, Bingley and Jane, and, of course, Mr Collins.

It's hard not to love and root for this Charlotte, even when she's making very poor choices. Charlotte's behavior at times was truly intolerable to me, one of my least favorite things to read about (and would likely have made Austen swoon), but it's a real testament to the author's craft I was too attached at those points to completely write her off. Charlotte's growth through the trials and tribulations in the course of the story was gratifying to read.

If you liked Persuasion or The Other Bennet Girl, I think you would really like this. You do not need to have read or watched an adaptation of Pride and Prejudice to enjoy this book, but it would definitely increase your appreciation. It should be noted that there is discussion of miscarriage in this book, but it is sensitively handled.

Thank you, Little, Brown and Company, for the arc!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Synopsis:
Charlotte Lucas has always been a pragmatist. Her decision to marry Mr Collins for convenience rather than for love, horrified her best friend, Elizabeth Bennet, who believed that a love match was paramount when seeking a husband.
Ever sensible and practical, Charlotte embarked on married life keen to fulfil her role as a rector’s wife and all that would entail.
But as time went by, Charlotte became increasingly restless and began to wonder if maybe there was more to life than just practicality and that societal rules could be broken.

As a huge fan of Pride and Prejudice, I admit to starting this book with some trepidation as it had alot to live up to. But I was so pleased to discover after only a few pages, that I was in very safe hands with this author and I kept forgetting that this was actually a brand new story as the writing style felt so familiar.

Full of all the well known and much loved characters from P&P, I really enjoyed reacquainting myself with them and it was obvious that the author knew and loved these characters as mshe got their personalities and voices down to a tee.

Our protagonist, Charlotte’s, experiences of love, passion, heartbreak and loss had me hooked from the outset and I was completely beguiled by her story. The use of letters throughout added understanding and depth and the descriptions of the Napleonic wars being fought in the early 1800’s added an extra dimension.

I really loved this very well researched and enjoyable book, l was thoroughly entertained and it has made me not only want to read P&P again, but to watch the 1995 BBC series for the umpteenth time too, as for me, that’s the best adaptation by a country mile.

[Sarah ⟡ Tea & Tomes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Little, Brown and Company for the free gift!

I never expected a story about Charlotte Lucas and Mr. Collins to be this captivating, but this book was every bit as entertaining and emotionally resonant as Pride and Prejudice itself. Rachel Parris takes a background character and gives her a richly developed inner world, revealing that Charlotte is far more complex, and far more sympathetic, than she’s ever been allowed to be.

The writing was exquisite, beautifully balancing the propriety and expectations of the Regency era with a modern emotional depth. It still feels authentically Austen, but with a fresh perspective that explores the unspoken sacrifices, quiet courage, and longing behind Charlotte’s choices. I loved how it stayed true to the tone of the original while giving voice to everything Austen’s Charlotte could never say.

And, unexpectedly, I even found myself softening toward Mr. Collins. Parris adds such thoughtful nuance to his character that I actually began to like him, something I never imagined possible! This story made me ache for Charlotte, cheer for her, and fall in love with her quiet strength. I tore through it, savoring every heart-wrenching and tender moment.

For readers who adore Pride and Prejudice and have ever wondered what became of Charlotte Lucas, this book is a must-read. It’s emotional, elegant, and utterly absorbing; a love letter to overlooked women and the quiet power of second chances.

[BethFishReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probably more like 3.75 stars.

Fun spin-off from Pride & Prejudice. My thoughts assume you are familiar with P&P.

The book starts on the day Charlotte Lucas marries William Collins and follows the first couple of years of her married life. Through flash backs, we learn a little more about the Lucases and why Charlotte chose to marry Mr. Collins, even though she is smarter, more practical, and more socially savvy than he.

Charlotte adapts well to life at Hunsford and is surprised to discover that Mr. Collins truly loves her, though she herself is not romantic. She also begins to develop a relationship with Lady Catherine that is independent from her husband's.

The novel is written with a nod to P&P, including the use of letters to move the plot along. We also recognize familiar events, such as Lizzy's visit to the Collinses, which coincides with Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam's visit with their aunt. We also meet some new characters, including a curate who is keen on winning Lady Catherine's favor.

I don't want to say too much about what happens in the novel, but I really enjoyed watching Charlotte's growth and self-discovery. Not everything is smooth sailing for her, but even the tougher, sadder moments helped her find true contentment and happiness. I also liked getting a glimpse into Lizzy's life at Pemberley and the future of the Bennet clan.

Recommended for Austen fans.

Thanks to Little, Brown for the review copy.

[Cori Samuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully-written take on Charlotte's story, after she agrees to marry the deeply challenging Mr Collins.

I loved this! With some retellings / alternate takes, I do wonder why the author bothered (they've changed nothing, or they've changed everything), so I have a high bar to pass. This surpassed it and more. In P&P, Charlotte is shuffled off to live a boring life ... here, she works hard to develop that life for herself, to take pleasure in the small things, and eventually to find more besides.

I liked the development of some of the side characters of P&P who can be rather one-note in the original. Lady Catherine de Bourgh has (very) hidden depths, Mr Collins has reasons for being the way he is, which you can empathise with while also being deeply grateful never to be stuck in a room with him. Wickham remains the greatest sleazeball ever to sleaze. And Charlotte is a rounded person here, with flaws, strengths and contradictions just like any of us.

Highly recommended to lovers of the original, or to anyone who's seen an adaptation and wondered "how that turned out."


This review is based upon a complimentary advance reading copy provided by the publisher.