Marianne: A Sense and Sensibility Sequel

by Alice McVeigh

"A deeply felt and pitch-perfect continuation that lets its title character finally come into her own.” – Kirkus Review

“A masterpiece! Dive in!” – Historical Fiction Company editorial review


When Marianne – still beautiful, still impulsive and not yet twenty-one – returns to London, she is rich, with a house in Mayfair and an estate in Dorsetshire. Despite her resolve to remain single, she finds herself besieged with admirers, including the dangerously attractive Willoughby and the charming and irreverent Crawford.
Then Marianne’s younger sister Margaret arrives. Margaret’s passion for romance leads to unexpected complications. As Marianne attempts to navigate the social whirl of Regency London, she finds her resolution tested and her feelings torn – between the pull of the past and the allure of the present.

"Marianne captures the essence of Austen... McVeigh throws together favorite characters that readers love, or love to hate, to see how they gel. The result is funny, heartwarming and everything lovers of Austen’s universe could hope for."
- Publishers Weekly’s BookLife Prize

“An absolute bright, lively prose and an interesting take on some of Jane Austen’s characters, with more focus on romance and a satire worthy of Austen herself…. Lively and well-written, with charming prose and characters that run true to Austen” – IndieReader editorial review
“A vivid portrait of Regency life, filled with class anxieties, and the limitations even wealthy women faced. In the end, McVeigh delivers a rare kind of one that honors Austen's world while expanding it. Rather than simply repeating familiar beats, she builds a thoughtful continuation that feels true to the spirit of the original while offering something entirely her own.”
– RECOMMENDED. The US Review of Books

“McVeigh has captured Austen’s writing style - this could have been penned by Austen herself. Her adherence to Austen’s character development, wit, social commentary and thematic elegance is such that Marianne feels both familiar and fresh… This sequel not only revisits the beloved Dashwood sisters but also explores new themes of love, growth, and resilience. With elegant and engaging prose, McVeigh seamlessly picks up where Austen left off, presenting a Marianne who is complex, thoughtfully portrayed, and deeply relatable… An absolute must-read for Austen fans." – The Coffee Pot Book Club

"Invigorating, self-aware, contemporary... This series continues an immersive delight, extending, honoring, and doing justice to Austen." – SPR editorial review

“I've never even considered the possibility of Sense and Sensibility needing to be expanded on, but this is a gift! Stunningly new while keeping Austen's heart to the last page.” – Lauren Gerock (The Bookstagrambabe)

“A treasure… With its blend of temptation and social wit, McVeigh reaffirms why Marianne, with all her impetuous charm, remains a heroine worth another chapter. Admirers of Austen’s sparkling dialogue will feel at home.”
– READERS VIEWS editorial

“Spectacular! With smooth pacing and classic style, McVeigh delivers a sequel that is sure to please.”
– READERS FAVORITE editorial

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Amazon, Historical Romance, Romance, Regency

323 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 22, 2025

About the author

Alice McVeigh has been twice-published by Orion/Hachette in contemporary fiction, by UK's Unbound (using a pen name) in Kirkus-starred action adventure and by Warleigh Hall Press in her multi-award-winning Austenesque series (honoured at the last two London Book Fairs, in the 2024 and 2025 UK Selfies awards, twice finalists in FOREWORD INDIES' "Book of the Year" (2022, 2024) etc.

Alice achieved a B.Mus with distinction in performance at Jacobs Indiana University School of Music, and spent three years studying cello privately with William Pleeth, Jacqueline du Pre’s “cello daddy”. After that she freelanced with orchestras including the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic and Sir John Eliot Gardiner's Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique all over the UK, the EU, America and Asia.

In the 1990s, WHILE THE MUSIC LASTS and GHOST MUSIC were published by Orion/Hachette, to wonderful reviews. Both have since been revised, and are now available in new editions, from Smashwords as well as the author's website.
("Characters rise and fall to McVeigh's superbly controlled conductor's baton” – The Sunday Telegraph. “McVeigh succeeds in harmonising a supremely comic tone with much darker notes." - The Sunday Times.)

Her fifth Austenesque novel - MARIANNE - a new-release SENSE AND SENSBILITY SEQUEL - has so far received stellar reviews from FOREWORD INDIES, PUBLISHERS WEEKLY's BOOKLIFE, the US REVIEW OF BOOKS, SPR, the INDIEREADER, HISTORICAL FICTION COMPANY, etc. It has also won Gold in the Literary Global Book Awards (romance), the American Writing Awards (romance), and the the Coffee Pot Book Awards (literary).

The previous four have been BookLife Quarterfinalists, joint runners-up in Foreword Indies' "Book of the Year" and honoured in the final seven novels considered for the 2024 UK Selfies Book Awards at the London Book Fair.

Alice has long been married to Professor Simon McVeigh. The McVeighs have one daughter, currently working on a PhD-level Presidential Scholarship at Harvard in Chinese Literature.

When not writing or editing, Alice is likeliest to be smiting tennis balls at the Bromley Tennis Centre. (As her daughter remarked, when aged only four: "My mum hits the ball farther than anybody!")

Reviews

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a worthy sequel to Sense and Sensibility! Ms. McVeigh's writing is a joy to read, feeling very authentically Austenesque in both style and story. She cleverly weaves characters from other Jane Austen classics into her creative plot.

The title character is not that much older than she was when Jane Austen's book ends, though she is a bit wiser. Sadly, Colonel Brandon died two years ago, leaving Marianne a very wealthy, very beautiful, estate-owning 20-year-old widow. Their marriage, while tragically short, was a happy one, and Marianne is resolved never to remarry.

Her resolution is tested when she returns to her London townhome for the first time since Brandon's death and Society men take notice, especially the unhappily-married John Willoughby. But James Rushworth, once he is officially divorced from the faithless Maria, sets his sights on Marianne and convinces himself she will be eager to accept when he proposes. And then there's Henry Crawford, who is not as tall or handsome as Willoughby, plus he is the scoundrel Maria Rushworth left her husband for, though Crawford and Maria are no longer together. None of the three is an ideal suitor, yet Marianne is tolerant of Rushworth and charmed by the other two.

Interspersed throughout are entries from the journal of now-17-year-old Margaret Dashwood, who joins her sister Marianne in London and fancies herself a future novelist. The melodramatic and overly ornate writings are a hoot to read (and brought back memories of my own ridiculous teenage scribblings). She is not yet "out" and is not in her sister's confidence but hears enough about the men pursuing Marianne to come to her own misguided conclusions. And when a crisis erupts that's centered on her, she treats it as if she's the tragic heroine in a gothic novel.

I particularly enjoyed spotting the various Austen characters who pop in and out of the story in appropriate situations. As a few examples, Jane Churchill and (Lady) Susan are friends to Marianne, Mary Crawford is still close to her brother, and John Thorpe provides unreliable gossip.

Highly recommend!

Content is clean.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Opinions are my own

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

🪭🎼👛🖌🪭

Review:
Three years after the happily ever after for Jane Austen’s Sense & Sensibility characters, author Alice McVeigh begins a new story involving the vivacious Marianne and her younger sister Margaret on a London Season adventure.

🪭🎼Marianne has lost her beloved Colonel Brandon and mourned him with an outpouring of grief her nearest and dearest recognize as just her way. However, they all agree she needs a diversion so she leaves the country and plans to spend the London Season returning to society and enjoying the entertainments London has to offer. Her imaginative, dramatic, younger sister Margaret is sent along to join her to continue her ‘finishing’ as a young lady preparing to enter society the next Season.

🫦Gossips like John Thorpe and Lady Susan make sure the arrival of a beautiful wealthy widow does not go unnoticed. Marianne finds her drawing room welcoming visitors from the newly divorced Mr. Rushworth to Marianne’s former flame, Willoughby. Reuniting with old friends like Mrs. Jennings, and Jane Fairfax, she also encounters new acquaintances, Henry and Mary Crawford.

👀Marianne is wary of male attention and tries to check her natural emotional reactions. She knows the reputation of Henry Crawford and, in the past, felt the sting of Willoughby’s cutting her, but she still can’t quite resist their charm like she can resist the stolid, simple Rushworth, who is equally determined to have such an open woman after his former wily wife.

👛🖌Margaret is enthralled with gothic romance novels and desires to write her own. Little does she imagine that she might become the heroine of her own harrowing adventure.
Both sisters must navigate the pitfalls of London Society. Marianne and others have second opportunities for romance and new chances to show character growth. Though there are rivals for Marianne’s affections, this was more a test to see if she could determine the true characters under the charms than a dreaded love triangle.


I enjoyed the style and tone to McVeigh’s writing and the way she pulled in so many characters from across Austen’s novels to wander around through a new sequel tale. I liked that Marianne is older and wiser, but still her irrepressible self. Marianne was an engaging tribute to all of Austen’s writing and a worthy sequel.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

I rec’d an eARC from the author to read in exchange for an honest review.

🪭🎼👛🖌🪭

#Marianne #AliceMcVeigh #WarleighHall #HistoricalFiction #JaneAusten250 #JaneAustenSequel #SenseandSensibility


My full review will post on my Instagram page, @sophiarose1816 on 12.12.25.

[Reader Views · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sense and Sensibility is Jane Austen’s classic novel of upper-class social behavior, set in late 18th-century England. It centers around the Dashwood family, particularly two of the three Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne. Elinor is the oldest and the one with “sense,” meaning she is a cool-headed type who looks at life from a down-to-earth, intellectual perspective. Middle sister Marianne is the one with “sensibility,” which we might currently rephrase as sensitivity – Marianne views life through an emotional lens. The third sister, Margaret, plays a minor role.

Alice McVeigh’s Marianne: A Sense and Sensibility Sequel shifts the emphasis to Marianne and Margaret. Elinor is referenced, but she remains in the background. Marianne was sixteen when readers first encountered her in Austen’s book, but is now twenty. She is now Mrs. Brandon, the widow of Colonel Brandon. Brandon was her much-older, much-beloved husband, whom she still grieves. Margaret is now sixteen, impulsive, and perhaps a bit flighty. She hopes to be an author and has begun writing a novel featuring a romantic heroine who falls in love with a handsome highwayman.

The beautiful and vivacious Marianne is the object of the affections of several men, all of whom have had previous entanglements. One is Willoughby, with whom she had previously fallen in love, but had let her down while in a scandalous situation. Marianne knows Willoughby is trouble, but she is still attracted to him. The second is Rushworth, a Member of Parliament, who had a disappointing previous marriage. The third is Crawford, who also has some dishonorable behavior in his past. Marianne will weigh her feelings towards these suitors throughout the story, and readers will be anxious to know what she decides.

The Dashwood family is horrified when Margaret is accused of a crime, arrested, and taken into custody. As a young woman of the upper classes, she is not thrown into a common jail but is allowed to live in confinement in special quarters, where she befriends and becomes a mentor to Bridget, a daughter of her jailer, but her circumstances are far different from the life she is used to. The family despairs over her situation. Much of the action centers around how the Dashwoods will manage her defense, who they will engage to represent them, and who will come to their assistance. The plot hinges on those circumstances.

Both Marianne and Margaret are depicted as keeping journals that follow their daily activities, thoughts, and feelings. The author cleverly creates journal excerpts to add depth to her characters as they reflect on their circumstances. While this is not an epistolary novel per se, the journal entries are a clever device that indirectly advances the action.

Fans of Jane Austen and regency romances in general will enjoy reading this further chapter in the lives of the two younger Dashwood sisters. Those who are not Austen buffs, or who have not read Sense and Sensibility recently, may have some difficulty at first sorting through Marianne’s friendships and the connections between them and her relationships with her three admirers, but staying with the book is most definitely worthwhile. The author has successfully built upon Austen’s classic novel in a way that honors it by being both logically organized and emotionally satisfying, much like the contrast between Elinor and Marianne as they were originally presented. This reviewer strongly recommends this fun and engaging novel.

As a special bonus, the book’s eye-catching cover features a charming painting that represents a young woman much like McVeigh’s descriptions of Marianne’s richly shaded hair, lively eyes, and rosy complexion in Marianne: A Sense and Sensibility Sequel. A credit informs the reader that it is a portrait of Élizabeth Vigée Le Brun, Countess Golovina, used with the courtesy of the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, University of Birmingham. Great choice, and one that is sure to entice book lovers.

[Tammy Buchli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marianne is not my favorite Austen heroine - I am more an Elinor type of gal. But I have dearly loved Alice McVeigh’s previous Austenations, so I hopped on this one with delight, despite the protagonist. Eagle-eyed Janites will note a change to canon early on, but my feeling is that the change was necessary to the story. The story itself is a good deal more romantic than McVeigh’s usual (not surprising given it’s a book about Marianne!), but I forgave that too since there was still plenty of social satire to be had. Beautifully Austenien language, no anachronisms and a ton of nicely drawn Austen characters - my only complaint is that McVeigh doesn’t write a little faster. I’m already looking forward to her next.

[Doc Jeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very unique and enjoyable look at what life might have been like for Col. Brandon’s widow after his death and her return home. If you are a lover of Austen’s stories and characters, you’ll truly enjoy this one. McVeigh brings together the Austen characters with both twists and fun.
I received an ARC prior to the book’s release.

[Vanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delighted. Alice has such a gift with her words that you find yourself totally immersed in her books, as if you were roaming the very roads of London itself! The way she creates these alternative scenarios where all the characters intertwine so perfectly is brilliant. Loved it!

[Mary Yarde · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I am not like Jane. Shamefully, I seem to resemble, instead, the heroines of Margaret’s romances, who are never happier than when redeeming some errant nobleman or wicked highwayman... But that is the comfort of keeping a journal, where I can tell the truth without the shame of it."

Following the untimely death of her beloved husband, Mrs Marianne Brandon returns to London, now cloaked in the title of a wealthy widow. At just 20 years old, she feels an unexpected weight of independence and resolve, harbouring no desire to remarry — a choice that seems unconventional in the eyes of society. Despite her intentions, whispers circulate among the ton, suggesting that she has captured the attention of numerous eligible bachelors. Complicating matters further, a figure from her past, someone she believed she would never encounter again, re-emerges in her life, stirring emotions she thought were long buried.

“Marianne: A Sense and Sensibility Sequel” by Alice McVeigh, part of the Warleigh Hall Press Jane Austen Series, serves as a captivating continuation of Jane Austen’s cherished novel. Set three years after the events of “Sense and Sensibility,” this sequel expertly weaves familiar characters back into the narrative, exploring their lives, loves, and the societal pressures they face.

The story unfolds primarily through the heartfelt journal entries of Marianne and Margaret. This narrative approach offers readers a deeply intimate glimpse into their lives, illuminating their unique perspectives on the world and the people who inhabit it. Through their personal reflections, readers are invited to experience their thoughts, emotions, and struggles, allowing for a richer understanding of their character development and the evolving relationships that shape their journeys.

Marianne has been masterfully reinterpreted, highlighting a more mature and complex character than in Austen’s original novel. Having endured the trials of both marriage and widowhood, she emerges with a profound emotional resilience that makes her heart less susceptible to manipulation and disappointment. This evolution in her character adds layers to her personality, illustrating her journey from youthful idealism to seasoned experience. Despite this growth, Marianne still possesses a fundamental tendency to view others through a lens of sincerity, often taking people at face value without questioning their deeper intentions. This trait becomes particularly striking when she encounters Henry Crawford. Initially taken in by his charm and charisma, she is blissfully unaware of the intricate emotions and motivations that lie beneath his polished exterior. Her initial impression of him, filled with optimism and hope, creates a foundation for a burgeoning relationship that ultimately challenges her perceptions and forces her to confront her convictions about love, trust, and authenticity. Marianne is undeniably a beloved character, and McVeigh has captured her essence with exceptional skill. With meticulous attention to the intricacies of character development, McVeigh seamlessly picks up where Austen left off, presenting a Marianne who is complex, thoughtfully portrayed, and deeply relatable. This depiction not only honours the original work but also enhances it, allowing readers to appreciate the evolution of a character who continues to resonate in the exploration of love and self-discovery.

Margaret Dashwood, at the tender age of sixteen, is every bit the endearing character she has always been, full of youthful exuberance and ambition. She dreams passionately of becoming the next Ann Radcliffe, the famed author of Gothic romances. Margaret is portrayed with a delightful sense of humour. She stubbornly insists on setting her novel in Northumbria, a place she envisions as a wild and untamed land, filled with rugged landscapes and lurking dangers, despite never having set foot there herself. Determined to weave a tale rich with intrigue, she fantasises about a dashing highwayman and the beautiful Lady Arabella, eager to create a story that will capture the imagination of her future readers. Margaret’s writing is a reflection of her character—overflowing with adjectives and adverbs, and remarkably sparing in her use of the word “said.” Her enthusiasm spills onto the pages, making her narrative a whirlwind of vivid imagery and emotion. However, when fate delivers a sudden and harsh blow, Margaret must summon an inner resolve she never knew she had. She faces challenges that seem almost unbearably cruel and wholly unfair, forcing her to navigate the turbulent waters of her young life. Through these trials, the reader cannot help but be drawn to Margaret, who remains a lovable figure, brimming with creativity and charm, yet teetering on the edge of disaster. As she confronts her circumstances, Margaret’s journey reveals not only the fragility of her dreams but also the strength of her spirit.

Henry Crawford, the notorious rake from Mansfield Park, is depicted with remarkable realism by McVeigh. Initially defined by his scandalous affair with Maria Rushworth, which caused considerable upheaval, Henry appears to have settled into a more refined demeanour. However, everything changes when he encounters Marianne. Drawn to her with an intensity he has never experienced before, Henry’s courtship of Marianne is characterised by respect, gentleness, and a commendable level of propriety. Throughout their interactions, Henry consistently demonstrates his commitment to Marianne, stepping in to offer help whenever she finds herself in need. Even after she attempts to distance herself from him, he continues to show up, proving his unwavering support and loyalty during challenging times. McVeigh successfully transforms Henry from a mere intriguing figure into a multi-dimensional character who embodies both likability and respectability. This evolution not only deepens our understanding of Henry but also enriches the narrative, showcasing his capacity for change and genuine affection.

Mr Rushworth is depicted with a comedic flair, often coming off as pompous and self-important. He fills conversations with endless anecdotes about his various health complaints, which are both tiresome and trivial, like blowing hot air into an already warm room. His incessant chatter creates an atmosphere of tedium around him, undermining his attempts to assert his influence. Despite his social standing, he lacks the depth and substance that would command respect, making him more of a source of amusement than authority.

In McVeigh’s narrative, readers are reintroduced to John Willoughby, the charming yet morally ambiguous rogue who notoriously mistreated Marianne in “Sense and Sensibility.” Unlike the other characters, who exhibit growth and development throughout the story, Willoughby remains steadfastly entrenched in his self-serving ways. Despite his smooth talk and seemingly heartfelt declarations, there is an unsettling calculation behind every action he takes. This consistent portrayal raises deep concerns in the mind of the reader; Willoughby’s charisma masks a deeply ingrained selfishness that makes one question whether he is capable of genuine emotional connection or change. The tension lies in the fear that, despite his charm, he will inevitably put his own interests above those of others, leaving a trail of emotional devastation in his wake.

McVeigh has skilfully captured the heart of Jane Austen’s unique writing style, making it plausible to believe that the book could have been penned by Austen herself rather than by McVeigh. Her adherence to Austen’s intricate character development, witty social commentary, and thematic elegance is so remarkable that readers may find themselves immersed in a narrative that feels both familiar and fresh. The seamless blending of McVeigh’s voice with Austen’s literary techniques invites readers to reflect on the enduring relevance of Austen’s insights into human nature and societal norms, further enhancing the richness of the reading experience.

In her novel, McVeigh skilfully employs humour not only in her characterisations but also as a narrative device reminiscent of Jane Austen’s storytelling style. This comedic approach serves to enrich the readers’ experience, offering a fresh perspective on Austen’s works. One particularly amusing moment references the iconic scene featuring Colin Firth’s wet shirt from the BBC’s 1995 adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice.” This humorous nod not only connects contemporary readers to a well-known adaptation but also highlights how cultural interpretations of Austen’s themes continue to resonate and evolve, bridging the gap between classic literature and modern storytelling.

“Marianne: A Sense and Sensibility Sequel” by Alice McVeigh is an absolute must-read for fans of Jane Austen. McVeigh skilfully honours Austen’s original characters while infusing the narrative with fresh perspectives that resonate deeply with readers. The author captures the essence of their personalities and relationships, offering insights that feel both authentic and invigorating. This sequel not only revisits the beloved world of the Dashwood sisters but also explores new themes of love, growth, and resilience in a way that feels both timely and timeless. McVeigh’s prose is elegant and engaging, making it a delightful experience from start to finish. Readers will find themselves grinning with satisfaction as they journey through this charming continuation of a classic tale. This book truly deserves high praise for its creativity and heartfelt storytelling.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

There was a lot going on in this book!

I liked that Marianne had matured since we last encountered her in Sense and Sensibility. There was still a lot of her happy and headstrong self, but she had grown up and was a much more responsible person. I did laugh a bit that she was 21 years old and resigned to never marrying again. I kind of think that does reflect her more romantic personality which took loyalty to the extreme.

Margaret was hilarious. I really laughed reading the drafts of her writing, because that is exactly how someone that age would write. I wasn't totally sold about her predicament (would she seriously keep acting the same way as before if she was facing the issue that she was? I think that would knock a bit of sense/maturity into you, but I've never been in that position, so I could be wrong.

I did enjoy all of the cameos in the book, but after a little while, it became a lot to try and keep track of everyone and remember what book they came from. I did find the idea intriguing, though, because if you do think about it, they would have lived in the same world and probably run across each other at some point. I just think that maybe the author tried to fit too many into the story.

I never thought that given the choice of two "villain" characters, I would be rooting for Henry Crawford. Especially as he was pretty despicable in his last appearance. But the author shows us that change is possible and that even characters we may have written of can be redeemed.

I definitely enjoyed this book and would certainly recommend it to fans of Jane Austen!

Thanks to the author for an advanced copy for me to review!

[Leann Arave · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read from this author. I was intrigued by the definition of the book, I have always enjoyed regency romances and Jane Austen. So a sequel to Sense and Sensibility sounded like just my cup of tea. Overall, I really enjoyed the story. It takes place after Colonel Brandon has passed away and I’m curious to the path Marianne’s life will take. With old beau’s back that need to pay their penance, her sister in trouble with the law and Margaret’s entertaining writing journal. I was not sure I liked the way the story was forming, but in the end I appreciated the charming redemption, validation, and the happily ever after. I did think it was a little bit long, but it was entertaining to read up on so many Austen characters that showed up in the story. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this sequel has Marianne from Sense and Sensibility as the central character, it is actually a sequel to all of Austen’s works, featuring characters from Mansfield Park, Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Lady Susan, and Northanger Abbey. It can be argued that this story is really more about Henry Crawford and Margaret Dashwood than it is about Marianne.

This is a story about accountability, maturity, kindness, self-centeredness, reformation, and second chances (both given and lost). Some chapters are from the journals of Marianne and Margaret. The sections from Margaret’s journal regarding the novel she is writing are absolutely priceless. The story comes to a satisfying conclusion even though I found the ending a bit abrupt.

If you enjoy Austen’s characters and the time period, you will enjoy this novel.

Family friendly.

Thanks to NetGalley and Warleigh Hall Press. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Lauralee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marianne is a sequel to Sense and Sensibility. After Colonel Brandon has died, Marianne returns to London as a wealthy woman. She soon attracts many suitors. However, Marianne is determined to stay single. Her sister, Margaret, has come to live with Marianne. One day, Margaret is accused of robbery and is put on trial. She risks deportation. Marianne does everything to save her sister and finds love along the way.

Marianne was one of my favorite characters in Sense and Sensibility. I loved her vivacity. I wanted to know how her character has grown in the sequel. Marianne is still spirited. However, she has grown wiser and more mature. She is not so easily led by her passions. She values her independence and doesn’t want to fall madly in love. It takes time for Marianne to actually fall in love, and she is careful about who she chooses. I also like Marianne’s love and devotion to her sisters, especially Margaret. She does everything she can to save her sister. Therefore, Marianne was a very admirable character. I wanted her to find her happy ending.

Overall, this novel is about redemption, family, and second chances. I liked how the book featured many crossovers from Jane Austen’s other novels. However, I thought the overload of cameos distracted me from the novel. There were some characters that I did not like. I really did not like whom Marianne ended up with. I thought that Jane Austen would sincerely disapprove. Still, it was a very light read for a lazy Saturday afternoon! Marianne was very well-written and moved at a fast-pace! Marianne is an enjoyable read for those who enjoy Jane Austen sequels and variations! I recommend this for fans of Kellynch, The Pursuit of Mary Bennett, and Mansfield Park Revisited!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)

[Alena (Ally) Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Entertaining. I really enjoyed this well-written story which mashes up characters from several Austen works. Obviously, the main character and her family are from Sense and Sensibility and it goes from there leading you to an interesting and enjoyable read. Enjoy!

[Pat · Rating 2 out of 5]

Well this was truly awful. I knew it was Fan Fiction - and I, like so many others, adore the wit and wisdom of Jane Austen. I’ve read a couple of other sequels or prequels and quite enjoyed “Longbourne.” But I just couldn’t. Marianne still having feelings for Willoughby, whose wife is heavily pregnant?? Horatio after jilting Fanny Price? And worst of all, (spoiler here!) Colonel Brandon dying only 2 years after he and Marianne were married??? I just couldn’t.

It did get 4 stars from other readers so I thought it might be okay. But the writing was horrendous and sooo repetitious that I returned it to Kindle Unlimited after reading 25%. I kept hoping that it would get better. It didn’t. There are too many good books to read to waste my time on this one.

[Beverlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of author Alice McVeigh’s many talents is delving into the souls of Jane Austen’s delightful characters to bring to life new glimpses and insights into—to use a modern expression—what makes them tick.

Her previous works have given voice to characters both major and minor, from Mr Darcy to Caroline Bingley to Harriet Smith, each time leaving the reader with a satisfied smirk of “aha, now isn’t that interesting!”

Her newest novel, Marianne, brings yet another of Austen’s wonderful heroines to life. This time, we are treated to a new adventure in the world of Sense and Sensibility, three years after the conclusion of Austen’s novel.

Our star is Marianne Dashwood, now the sadly widowed Mrs Brandon, mourning the untimely loss of her husband and cast into the dizzying world of London’s high society. She is not alone, however. Denizens of all Austen’s novels swirl around her, populating the city and salons. Mr Bingley trades barbs with John Thorpe; Lady Catherine colludes with Lady Susan; and Henry Crawford and Jane Fairfax (now Churchill) are staunch supporters of the beautiful young widow.

When Marianne’s sister Margaret, a fanciful sixteen-year-old with the imagination of an author, comes to stay with her, Marianne is forced out into society and into trouble that neither she nor Margaret could have dreamt of, inspired by an event in Austen’s own life. This novel explores who is friend, who is foe, and how the past must be confronted before being able to move forward.

I wrote earlier of Ms McVeigh’s many talents. Her profound insight into character is one. Her writing is another. She wields her pen with skill, crafting her stories in an elegant and witty style so reminiscent of Jane Austen’s own. Yet another is her keen but kind humour, displayed so brilliantly in the words from Margaret’s pen, which expose to loving scrutiny all the misguided advice young authors are subject to. We cringe, but we have to laugh at ourselves as well, for every writer sees something of Margaret in their own attempts.

The pacing in Marianne is gentle enough to let us enjoy this sojourn into Regency London, but bright enough that we never languish, and her story is engaging until the very last page. If there are a couple of minor deviations from Austen’s original text, they all serve the story.

For all lovers of Jane Austen, and those who should be, Marianne is a novel to be greatly enjoyed.

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alice McVeigh, Marianne A Sense and Sensibility Sequel, Warleigh Hall Press | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles, October 2025.

Thank you NetGalley and Alice McVeigh for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.

This series has been a joy to read from the first novel, a wonderful encounter with the young woman who was to become Austen’s Lady Susan, Susan, A Jane Austen Prequel. McVeigh has never moved away from her meticulous rendering of Austen’s language and time and the introduction of credible events: her novels are clearly the end point of not only research, but an enduring knowledge and love for Austen’s work. Marianne A Sense and Sensibility Sequel is particularly elegant in its weaving together characters from several Austen novels - Sense and Sensibility, Mansfield Park Emma, Lady Susan, Pride and prejudice and Northanger Abbey.

Marianne Brandon is widowed at twenty – a sad state that does not prevent her from romantic musings, tinged with regret, wrath, and self-delusion about the young men she encounters throughout the novel. Her truly foolish and romantic persona is adopted by Margaret, her younger sister. Margaret’s romantic musings are fully developed in her diary in which she reflects upon her attempts to write a novel. This adds to the humour in the narrative, as well as being reminiscent of Northanger Abbey. There are other delightful reminders of Austen’s fine hand in Willoughby’s self-justification for his treatment of Marianne which recalls the conversation between her aunt and uncle in Sense and Sensibility. Although in this novel, John redeems himself by providing something for the sisters in his will, Willoughby’s self-justification is a potent reminder of the past impoverishment of the sisters that led to his decision to abandon Marianne.

Is Jane Austen’s work so well reflected in Alice McVeigh’s that she is replaced, her own novels unnecessary reading? No, because that is far too high a demand to make of any writer whose work is a variation on another’s. However, does McVeigh capture the essence of Austen so well that we can return to her world through these new novels? I believe that there can be only a resounding yes to that query. In this latest work McVeigh has given us Marianne, a more thoughtful character, but retaining much of her younger, impetuous self. She has also provided other characters with a past that rings true, and a future that is a pleasure to see revealed.

[Amelia Storck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marianne: A Sense and Sensibility Sequel is a rare and accomplished continuation one that not only honors Jane Austen’s original vision, but deepens it, allowing Marianne Dashwood to step fully into her own complexity, agency, and emotional maturity.

McVeigh’s greatest achievement lies in her profound understanding of Marianne’s inner life. Still impulsive, still romantic, yet newly tempered by experience, this Marianne feels entirely authentic to Austen’s creation while also reflecting the hard-won growth that time, wealth, and self-knowledge bring. Her return to London society armed with independence, fortune, and resolve creates a fertile tension between past passion and present choice, especially as familiar figures like Willoughby re-emerge alongside new temptations.

The introduction of Margaret Dashwood adds a subtle and effective counterpoint, echoing Marianne’s former romantic intensity while illuminating the costs and consequences of youthful idealism. Through this intergenerational mirror, McVeigh explores themes of restraint, desire, female autonomy, and the quiet negotiations women must make within rigid social structures even when wealth appears to promise freedom.

Stylistically, the novel is a triumph. McVeigh’s prose is bright, precise, and rhythmically attuned to Austen’s voice without lapsing into imitation. The dialogue sparkles with wit, the social satire lands cleanly, and the emotional arcs unfold with patience and intelligence. Regency London is rendered with vivid texture, capturing both its glamour and its constraints, particularly for women navigating reputation, independence, and love.

What distinguishes Marianne is its confidence. Rather than retreading familiar ground, the novel asks meaningful questions about who Marianne becomes when she is no longer defined by youthful excess or romantic disappointment. The result is a sequel that feels necessary not because it fills a gap, but because it offers a deeper, more expansive understanding of a beloved heroine.

Marianne will delight devoted Austen readers and historical fiction fans alike especially those who value character-driven storytelling, emotional nuance, and continuations that respect their literary inheritance while daring to grow beyond it.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alice McVeigh has written some of my very favorite Austen variations. They read as if they were written by Jane's slightly snarkier big sister, and they feel like the true - slightly less tidy - stories happening alongside the ones in the books. Marianne, a Sense and Sensibility sequel, is as prickly and delightful as all the rest.

The story opens with Marianne - a delightfully seasoned version of Austen's heroine - widowed and convinced she will never love again. She adjourns to London, and her younger sister Margaret joins her. Beautiful and vivacious Marianne attracts suitors (and makes the acquaintance of several Mansfield Park characters) while romantic and naive Margaret is obsessed with highwaymen. Soon both are swept up in a bit of melodrama involving some stolen lace - but the story has a serious side as well, addressing the allure of fantasy and its inevitable collision with reality, as well as personal redemption and the many faces we can each wear over the course of our lives. It's also a humorous send-up of romance novels, romance, and Austen herself.

[I received a complimentary ARC from the author. Opinions are my own.]

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the latest book in this fun Austen spinoff series, Alice McVeigh brings Marianne Brandon’s widowhood and return to London to life in incredible detail. Featuring a cast of characters from her sister Margaret Dashwood, Henry Crawford, and John Willoughby to fan favorites like Lady Catherine De Bourgh, the book’s mix of diary entries and standard prose pulls readers into the London social scene as an eligible widow like Marianne. The characters are the absolute stars of the book, and the fun relationships, entertaining interactions, and easter eggs really add a lot of detail and depth to the story. McVeigh’s world-building and characters are absolutely incredible and pull readers into the story, while the social interactions and settings are a fantastic backdrop for the characters’ narrative arcs and relationships. The humor and emotion levels really match Austen’s original novels, and McVeigh really gives smaller characters the chance to shine throughout the book. Funny, entertaining, romantic, and heartwarming, this new novel from Alice McVeigh is a brilliant continuation of Sense and Sensibility, among other novels, that Austenites will adore for its charming characters, beautiful settings, and entertaining storylines that really allow Marianne, Margaret, Henry, and Willoughby to shine on every page.

Thanks to NetGalley, Warleigh Hall Press, and Alice McVeigh for the advance copy.

[Nisha Joshi (swamped, will review whenever possible) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another book done on my journey of Austen retellings!

This book follows Marianne a few years after the events of Sense and Sensibility. She is not yet 21, but her beloved Colonel Brandon is dead, leaving her wealthy yet alone. When she arrives in London, she finds herself an unwilling part of the ton. What is more, gentlemen are starting to take notice of her. As Marianne tries to align herself to all this new interest, Margaret arrives. With her head in the clouds and her forward notions of love and romance, she starts building her own stories about Marianne and her potential suitors.

We meet the handsome Willoughby setting Marianne's heart aflutter (oh, after all these years and so much heartbreak!). Then we come across the charismatic Henry Crawford (with appearances from Mary Crawford) and Mr. Rushworth (sad but belligerent). There is Lady Susan, trying to instigate her way into Marianne's heart and (incredibly) Lady Catherine de Bourgh!

I have made it my life's aim to read as many Jane Austen retellings as I can. Marianne was another pick in that journey but I loved it so much. The author Alice McVeigh has managed to maintain the old-world style of writing yet modify it enough for modern sensibilities.

Marianne is still headstrong and emotional, but now you see her with some experience and wisdom. What a lovely character.

4.5 stars.

Thanks to Netgalley and Warleigh Hall Press for the ARC.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marianne is a historical romance in the spirt of Sense and Sensibility. A young widow emerging from mourning, Marianne returns to London to begin to venture back into Society. Her beauty, intelligence and grace soon attracts three suitors, each with their own past issues. Marianne is unusual in that she is independently wealthy and does not need to remarry to retain her standard of living. Her younger sister, Margaret, unexpectedly joins her and adds to the sense of romance as well as the mystery of who will win Marianne’s heart or if she is not yet ready to share it again.

The chapters alternate between the story narrative and the journal entries of the sisters, giving us three different views of events. Once Margaret stumbles into a situation that could ruin her life, the role of each suitor in saving her may help Marianne decide if she is ready to love again and who that might be.

An enjoyable read for historical romance readers. Alice McVeigh does an excellent job of weaving the story together from the differing perspectives of the characters and coming to a satisfying yet not easy to determine conclusion. Perhaps the next novel will reveal Margaret’s path as she enters Society and seeks to find romance with someone who lives up to the imagination she displays in her efforts to become a novelist.

[Tzippy Sheffi Elgar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly enjoyed Marianne, which was an excellent sequel to Sense and Sensibility. I did not read the blurb before starting to read this book, so I was quite shocked and sad to learn that Colonel Brandon died within the first year of their marriage. But I was very curious about Marianne's story and how the plot would develop. It was great fun to meet characters from Jane Austen's other novels, such as Wiloughby, Henry and Mary Crawford and James Rushworth, Frank and Jane Churchill, and the romantic and imaginitive Margaret Dashwood. I loved Marianne in this sequel. She is older and has gained more experience in the world. Henry Crawford is another character who goes through a change and learns from his past mistakes and repents them. He is a delightful character, and he became quite a favorite of mine in the story. The style reminded me very much of Jane Austen's comedy of manners. It was light, witty and delightful. I found the story very charming and engaging and I hope others enjoy it as much as I have.

[Cheryl · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
The more I read this book, the more I became invested in the outcome of the story. This book follows on from Sense and Sensibility, when Marianne was a widow. Parts of the story were told through a journal, Marianne’s and her sister Margaret’s. I didn’t mind Marianne’s thoughts on events but I wasn’t too keen on the younger sister’s. Especially, when she was quoting long passages from a book she was writing, I’m afraid I skipped over those. The story involves a number of suitors who wish to marry Marianne. There was an un expected twist in the story which was a pleasant surprise and really added to the story. The book is written in a style which takes in all the mannerisms and sensibilities of the time. It is a little slow at first but well worth reading on. I received a copy via Niche Reader and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Laura Nielsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

McVeigh once again shows her understanding and mastery of Jane Austen's world. I believe she owns a vacation home there and visits frequently. In Marianne, she pulls together many characters familiar to Jane Austen's readers. Sensitive, musical Marianne is a young, wealthy widow being courted by several men, most regrettably the leftovers from Austen's romances. Poor Marianne scarcely believed a second attachment was possible, and now she is facing a third.
The true delight is Marianne's younger sister Margaret: young, naive, romantic, and author of delightfully dreadful romance novels. During her stay in London, Margaret is thrust into a frightening situation that threatens her life, liberty, and pursuit of imprudent romance. She navigates this trial with surprising grace, humor, and novel writing. Will McVeigh give us more of Margaret in a future book? I hope so!

[Amy Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful sequel to "Sense and Sensibility," imagining Marianne's life 3 years after the events of that book. I loved how the author brought together many side characters from several Austen books into intimate acquaintance with each other. In this story, Marianne has been widowed for 2 years, after a very short, but happy, marriage to Colonel Brandon. Now she is in London, being pursued by 3 men (Rushworth, Willoughby, and Crawford). I figured she must end of with one of them, but for most of the book, I couldn't imagine which of the three would reform and prove worthy of her. I was delighted by the redemptive reformation of the one who eventually won her heart and hand. If you have read and enjoyed all of Jane Austen's novels (including Lady Susan), you will likely enjoy this clean, sweet story.

[Cindy Stone · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, except for Marianne's husband, Colonel Brandon, dying, this is a wonderful story. We see a still somewhat sentimental and over-emotional Marianne not understanding her own heart and misjudging both Willoughby and Henry Crawford. But with rumors flying all over Town (London), what is a girl to believe? Margaret is still young and foolish, imagining things that are not real, but due to being in the wrong place at the wrong time, Margaret is accused of theft, a crime dangerous enough to lead to transportation or even death. How Marianne grows to see the difference between "romantic" love and real love is a lesson she should have already learned but... Although I received a complimentary readers' copy, my opinions are my own and freely given.

[Mystica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marianne is a young widow whose husband died tragically young leaving her wealthy and very much alone. She has now returned to London for the first time and has stirred a lot of interest amongst the men.
She is very eligible and several men try to gain her interest. The three men who try to gain her attention have very chequered pasts and some of them think she should be honoured if they propose and consider themselves a “good catch”

Into this scenario, comes Margaret Dashwood the younger sister dramatic, not yet made her debut but watching the proceedings with an eagle eye, all grist to her probable novel in the making.
There are a number of Austen characters and the book becomes a very pleasant read.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly enjoyable Austen variation.

This was so very well written. I was thoroughly invested in the author’s portrayal of Marianne. At times, Marianne drove me batty, and I just wanted to shake some sense into her. It was definitely too good a book to be put down. I read it straight through. Her sister, Margaret, was a riot. The story had a great deal more suspense than I have seen in other Austen variations. The author stayed very true to the characters but wove in so much more. Being able to be inside the characters’ heads was delightful and often ridiculously funny. I am looking forward to reading her other books. I definitely recommend this book.

[Kathryn Hayward · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provides a good insight into Regency society and the growing disquiet among intelligent and educated women that would ultimately lead to the suffragette movement. Political and societal disquiet is cleverly portrayed using a series of characters’ diary entries.

Alice McVeigh’s portrayal of young Margaret’s attempts at writing fiction brilliantly reflect Margaret’s immaturity and wild desires, while Crawford’s soliloquy as he walks through the spring-time woods in Chapter seventy-one is beautifully written.

[Marilyn Boyle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well, this isn’t Jane Austen, that’s for sure, but if I ignore the claim of a sequel, then I found it a relatively pleasant period romance. It didn’t have the insight of a book of manners or a parody, but a good use of vernacular of the times. There were drawbacks to all of the beautiful Marianne’s suitors, but I won’t let you know what I think of them, so as not to create spoilers. Likewise, the ending. It’s fun, but slightly unsatisfying.

Many thanks to Warleigh Hall Press and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Tabby Shiflett · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
Although I have enjoyed this author's other Austen adaptations, I wasn't sure how I felt about my favorite Austen love interest and hero (RIP Colonel Brandon) passing so soon after his and Marianne's happy union. That being said, I was pleasantly surprised at how well the storyline and the hodgepodge of Austen characters evolved into a faithful, witty, humorous, and heartfelt sequel worthy of fans everywhere. One of the best Stand Alone sequels I've read. Recommended for Austen fans and readers who enjoy classics adaptations.

LibraryThing Early Reviewer