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Mary and the Captain
A plan of marriage …
Jane and Charles Bingley's plan for a quiet stay at Netherfield with Kitty and Mary Bennet takes a wrong turn, thanks to Caroline Bingley. Caroline is determined to add her brother Robert and her best friend Helena to the party. It’s Caroline’s dearest wish that Robert and Helena wed, for she knows their marriage will elevate the Bingley’s status among the ton.
The dashing bridegroom …
Captain Robert Bingley arrives at Netherfield for the sole purpose of wooing beautiful Helena Paget. And when he meets Kitty and Mary Bennet for the first time, he gives them no more than a passing glance; until an unusual circumstance sends him off on a quest to rescue a friend in trouble … with Mary Bennet as his accomplice!
The wrong bride …
Before long shy, bookish Mary has turned Robert’s well-ordered life on its ear. Why, even Caroline Bingley notices her brother and Mary seem to be in constant company. Now it’s up to Caroline to drive a wedge between them in order to achieve her heart’s desire.
Jane and Charles Bingley's plan for a quiet stay at Netherfield with Kitty and Mary Bennet takes a wrong turn, thanks to Caroline Bingley. Caroline is determined to add her brother Robert and her best friend Helena to the party. It’s Caroline’s dearest wish that Robert and Helena wed, for she knows their marriage will elevate the Bingley’s status among the ton.
The dashing bridegroom …
Captain Robert Bingley arrives at Netherfield for the sole purpose of wooing beautiful Helena Paget. And when he meets Kitty and Mary Bennet for the first time, he gives them no more than a passing glance; until an unusual circumstance sends him off on a quest to rescue a friend in trouble … with Mary Bennet as his accomplice!
The wrong bride …
Before long shy, bookish Mary has turned Robert’s well-ordered life on its ear. Why, even Caroline Bingley notices her brother and Mary seem to be in constant company. Now it’s up to Caroline to drive a wedge between them in order to achieve her heart’s desire.
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Published May 20, 2017
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About the author
Nancy Lawrence
22 books19 followersNancy Lawrence writes traditional Regency romances, where the heroes are gentlemen, the heroines are ladies, and there’s always a fancy-dress ball to attend. Nancy lives with her family in Aurora, Colorado, “the best city in the world if you can’t live in Bath, England.”
You can learn more about Nancy, her books, and her writing progress at:
http://NancyLawrenceRegency.wordpress...
http://twitter.com/NLawrenceAuthor
http://www.facebook.com/nancy.lawrenc...
You can learn more about Nancy, her books, and her writing progress at:
http://NancyLawrenceRegency.wordpress...
http://twitter.com/NLawrenceAuthor
http://www.facebook.com/nancy.lawrenc...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
November 30, 2017
My New Favorite Man in a Redcoat!
Source: Review Copy from Author
Since her plans for a grand match for Charles fell through when he married Jane Bennet, Caroline Bingley turns to her other brother, Captain Robert Bingley, to achieve a brilliant marriage and fulfill the connections and elevation she feels the Bingley family needs (and deserves!) And she has just the girl in mind…her dear friend, Miss Helena Paget. Charming, beautiful, delicate, and witty – Helena Paget is an ideal choice, not to mention she is already besotted with Robert, besties with Caroline, and the niece of an earl! Up to her usual machinations, Caroline has decided Jane and Charles must invite Miss Paget to their small holiday gathering at Netherfield when Robert has two weeks leave from the army. It will be the perfect setting for him to court Miss Paget and eventually propose! What could go wrong…
Mary Bennet is very disappointed to hear that several strangers are joining their family party at Netherfield. She doesn’t feel comfortable around people she doesn’t know, and she is fully aware that she has “never mastered the art of social niceties.” Fortunately for Mary, she finds Miss Helena Paget to be very kind (not at all like Caroline, phew!) and Captain Bingley quite handsome. But it is immediately clear where Captain Bingley’s affections lie, so Mary knows that there is no prospect for her (or Kitty) in that quarter (which is fine, because marriage frightens her). But it looks like Mary’s heart has other ideas, and poor Mary suffers because she knows it cannot be…
Oh, yes. From the very first moment I read the back cover and discovered that we were meeting a new Bingley brother, my pleasure in this story was a sure thing! I love stories about secondary characters, and Mary Bennet is one of my favorites to see featured as a heroine. I love the dichotomy of her being introverted and shy, yet decided in her opinions and firm in her judgements. I thought it was absolutely lovely to observe Mary falling in love, yet finding herself in the very unhappy position of knowing it must be unrequited. She handles it all most admirably. In addition, I thought Helena Paget was a great new addition, and an ideal adversary for Mary because she is so flawless, beautiful, and everything Mary feels she is not.
However, Ms. Lawrence’s portrayal and thoughtful development of Mary Bennet isn’t the only thing I loved about this story. Far from it! I must admit, with his rugged handsomeness, honorable charity towards others, and kind demeanor I quite lost my heart to Captain Bingley! He is very much Charles’s brother with his friendliness and charm, but at the same time he isn’t one easily controlled and is more confident in his actions. I loved and admired Captain Bingley for his honorable actions involving a mistreated stable boy, and for how he noticed Mary Bennet and found so much to appreciate and applaud in her character. I always love it when a dashing hero understands and recognizes an unassuming heroine’s true worth.
Aside from Captain Bingley and Helena Paget, Ms. Lawrence created several more original characters for her tale – an unfortunate stable boy named Daniel Westover and the vicar of Meryton, Mr. Penrose. Both these characters effect some change and some turbulence within this story. Daniel is a delight and my heart warmed seeing his relationship with the Bennet sisters and Captain Bingley. In addition, I thought Mr. Penrose quite charming and masterful in his handling of some people… I hope this isn’t the last we see of him!
I am exceedingly pleased with this lovely, sensitive, and well-composed sequel to Pride and Prejudice! I love that Nancy Lawrence featured Mary Bennet, introduced stimulating new characters, and constructed a beautiful story of strength, inner beauty, compassion, and heart. I sincerely hope we see many more Austenesque novels from the pen of Nancy Lawrence!!! I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
Source: Review Copy from Author
Since her plans for a grand match for Charles fell through when he married Jane Bennet, Caroline Bingley turns to her other brother, Captain Robert Bingley, to achieve a brilliant marriage and fulfill the connections and elevation she feels the Bingley family needs (and deserves!) And she has just the girl in mind…her dear friend, Miss Helena Paget. Charming, beautiful, delicate, and witty – Helena Paget is an ideal choice, not to mention she is already besotted with Robert, besties with Caroline, and the niece of an earl! Up to her usual machinations, Caroline has decided Jane and Charles must invite Miss Paget to their small holiday gathering at Netherfield when Robert has two weeks leave from the army. It will be the perfect setting for him to court Miss Paget and eventually propose! What could go wrong…
Mary Bennet is very disappointed to hear that several strangers are joining their family party at Netherfield. She doesn’t feel comfortable around people she doesn’t know, and she is fully aware that she has “never mastered the art of social niceties.” Fortunately for Mary, she finds Miss Helena Paget to be very kind (not at all like Caroline, phew!) and Captain Bingley quite handsome. But it is immediately clear where Captain Bingley’s affections lie, so Mary knows that there is no prospect for her (or Kitty) in that quarter (which is fine, because marriage frightens her). But it looks like Mary’s heart has other ideas, and poor Mary suffers because she knows it cannot be…
Oh, yes. From the very first moment I read the back cover and discovered that we were meeting a new Bingley brother, my pleasure in this story was a sure thing! I love stories about secondary characters, and Mary Bennet is one of my favorites to see featured as a heroine. I love the dichotomy of her being introverted and shy, yet decided in her opinions and firm in her judgements. I thought it was absolutely lovely to observe Mary falling in love, yet finding herself in the very unhappy position of knowing it must be unrequited. She handles it all most admirably. In addition, I thought Helena Paget was a great new addition, and an ideal adversary for Mary because she is so flawless, beautiful, and everything Mary feels she is not.
However, Ms. Lawrence’s portrayal and thoughtful development of Mary Bennet isn’t the only thing I loved about this story. Far from it! I must admit, with his rugged handsomeness, honorable charity towards others, and kind demeanor I quite lost my heart to Captain Bingley! He is very much Charles’s brother with his friendliness and charm, but at the same time he isn’t one easily controlled and is more confident in his actions. I loved and admired Captain Bingley for his honorable actions involving a mistreated stable boy, and for how he noticed Mary Bennet and found so much to appreciate and applaud in her character. I always love it when a dashing hero understands and recognizes an unassuming heroine’s true worth.
Aside from Captain Bingley and Helena Paget, Ms. Lawrence created several more original characters for her tale – an unfortunate stable boy named Daniel Westover and the vicar of Meryton, Mr. Penrose. Both these characters effect some change and some turbulence within this story. Daniel is a delight and my heart warmed seeing his relationship with the Bennet sisters and Captain Bingley. In addition, I thought Mr. Penrose quite charming and masterful in his handling of some people… I hope this isn’t the last we see of him!
I am exceedingly pleased with this lovely, sensitive, and well-composed sequel to Pride and Prejudice! I love that Nancy Lawrence featured Mary Bennet, introduced stimulating new characters, and constructed a beautiful story of strength, inner beauty, compassion, and heart. I sincerely hope we see many more Austenesque novels from the pen of Nancy Lawrence!!! I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
May 24, 2017
“The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides.” Audrey Hepburn
The beginning of the story was a bit slow because we had to deal with the Bennets as they prepared to go out of town. Mary and Kitty were to stay with Charles and Jane at Netherfield. Little did anyone know that Caroline had invited herself, the Hursts and her bestie Miss Helena Paget to stay at Netherfield during the holidays. Her aim… a match between Miss Paget and her brother Captain Robert Bingley.
“A beautiful woman delights the eye; a wise woman, the understanding; a pure one, the soul.” Minna Antrim
Miss Helena Paget was the perfect tiny porcelain doll. Her family had raised her on a velvet pillow and nothing was allowed to plague her. She could not tolerate the cold, would not put herself out and loathed even getting dirt on her shoes. Her voice, her playing, everything about her was perfection. And Captain Robert Bingley was smitten. It was only a matter of time before he made her an offer of marriage. And Caroline wanted him to make the match because Miss Paget’s uncle was a lord and Caroline wanted the connection for herself and the family.
Enter a young servant boy named Daniel and everything changes. Suddenly we see a new side to Miss Paget and Caroline also. I loved the story with this little guy. Somehow children change the tone of a story. I just loved him and his relationship with the Captain and Mary. Mr. Penrose the vicar attempted to help the family with the young man but he only discomforted Miss Bingley.
“Do the right thing. It will gratify some people and astonish the rest.” Mark Twain
This story was really deeper than what you would think. It was the inner workings of Caroline Bingley and her relationship with her brother. It really was a beautiful relationship. We watch her struggle with her own emotions and feelings regarding where she came from, where she had been and who she was now. It was as much as story about Caroline as it was about Mary and the Captain.
“To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don’t need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself.” Bindi Irwin
You don’t really know a person until you see them in different circumstances than what they are accustomed to. Miss Paget did not have her mother nearby in order to help her curb her tongue. She was not in society that she had been raised to. She had to deal with persons she considered beneath her and it was not long before her porcelain veneer began to crack. Soon the claws came out as she insisted the Captain resign his commission, get rid of the boy and banish Mary Bennet from Netherfield forever.
The Captain began to see things in a different light when Miss Paget’s conduct was compared to that of Mary Bennet. For Mary, it was what was on the inside that counted. She was the real deal. She was honest, helpful, dedicated, and she was willing to do what was right, even if it was uncomfortable. Her intentions were pure and she had no ulterior motives to her actions.
The situation with Daniel was amazing and I wonder if there is a sequel planned for this story. There were many threads left dangling that would be amazing to see completed. It was a clean read that I didn't want to put down.
Problem: as the book progressed, the editing sort of fell apart. Miss Paget became Page at one point. Several times I encountered a strangely worded sentence. I had to back up several times to clarify what I was reading. As the story went on… it got worse. It was too bad.
The beginning of the story was a bit slow because we had to deal with the Bennets as they prepared to go out of town. Mary and Kitty were to stay with Charles and Jane at Netherfield. Little did anyone know that Caroline had invited herself, the Hursts and her bestie Miss Helena Paget to stay at Netherfield during the holidays. Her aim… a match between Miss Paget and her brother Captain Robert Bingley.
“A beautiful woman delights the eye; a wise woman, the understanding; a pure one, the soul.” Minna Antrim
Miss Helena Paget was the perfect tiny porcelain doll. Her family had raised her on a velvet pillow and nothing was allowed to plague her. She could not tolerate the cold, would not put herself out and loathed even getting dirt on her shoes. Her voice, her playing, everything about her was perfection. And Captain Robert Bingley was smitten. It was only a matter of time before he made her an offer of marriage. And Caroline wanted him to make the match because Miss Paget’s uncle was a lord and Caroline wanted the connection for herself and the family.
Enter a young servant boy named Daniel and everything changes. Suddenly we see a new side to Miss Paget and Caroline also. I loved the story with this little guy. Somehow children change the tone of a story. I just loved him and his relationship with the Captain and Mary. Mr. Penrose the vicar attempted to help the family with the young man but he only discomforted Miss Bingley.
“Do the right thing. It will gratify some people and astonish the rest.” Mark Twain
This story was really deeper than what you would think. It was the inner workings of Caroline Bingley and her relationship with her brother. It really was a beautiful relationship. We watch her struggle with her own emotions and feelings regarding where she came from, where she had been and who she was now. It was as much as story about Caroline as it was about Mary and the Captain.
“To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don’t need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself.” Bindi Irwin
You don’t really know a person until you see them in different circumstances than what they are accustomed to. Miss Paget did not have her mother nearby in order to help her curb her tongue. She was not in society that she had been raised to. She had to deal with persons she considered beneath her and it was not long before her porcelain veneer began to crack. Soon the claws came out as she insisted the Captain resign his commission, get rid of the boy and banish Mary Bennet from Netherfield forever.
The Captain began to see things in a different light when Miss Paget’s conduct was compared to that of Mary Bennet. For Mary, it was what was on the inside that counted. She was the real deal. She was honest, helpful, dedicated, and she was willing to do what was right, even if it was uncomfortable. Her intentions were pure and she had no ulterior motives to her actions.
The situation with Daniel was amazing and I wonder if there is a sequel planned for this story. There were many threads left dangling that would be amazing to see completed. It was a clean read that I didn't want to put down.
Problem: as the book progressed, the editing sort of fell apart. Miss Paget became Page at one point. Several times I encountered a strangely worded sentence. I had to back up several times to clarify what I was reading. As the story went on… it got worse. It was too bad.
May 30, 2017
Pretty is as pretty does. – English idiom
Captain Bingley has a problem!
Yes, Captain Bingley, the younger brother of the Bingley siblings, is about to become betrothed to a beautiful young lady – the niece of a Lord. Caroline is so happy. What a conquest!
The lovely Miss Helena Paget is invited to Netherfield for the holidays to allow time for the pair to become better acquainted.
On his journey to Meryton, the Captain is forced to spend a night at a disreputable inn where he meets a young servant boy. He takes pity on the mis-treated boy and brings the boy to Netherfield.
The criterion of true beauty is that it increases on examination; of false, that it lessens. ~Fulke Greville (1554–1628)
The lovely Miss Paget and Sister Caroline consider the boy to be fit only for the stables. Mary Bennet supports the effort to find Daniel Westover a proper home and she discovers his heritage.
Of the three women, who will prove to be the beauty?
Does Caroline possess a beautiful soul? In her efforts to have Daniel evicted from Netherfield, the truth will be discovered.
No churlish moralist ever uttered a falser maxim than that "Beauty is but skin deep." Why Beauty is so deep that nobody has ever got to the bottom of it. ~T.C. Henley, "Beauty," A Handful of Paper Shavings, 1861
Captain Bingley has a problem!
Yes, Captain Bingley, the younger brother of the Bingley siblings, is about to become betrothed to a beautiful young lady – the niece of a Lord. Caroline is so happy. What a conquest!
The lovely Miss Helena Paget is invited to Netherfield for the holidays to allow time for the pair to become better acquainted.
On his journey to Meryton, the Captain is forced to spend a night at a disreputable inn where he meets a young servant boy. He takes pity on the mis-treated boy and brings the boy to Netherfield.
The criterion of true beauty is that it increases on examination; of false, that it lessens. ~Fulke Greville (1554–1628)
The lovely Miss Paget and Sister Caroline consider the boy to be fit only for the stables. Mary Bennet supports the effort to find Daniel Westover a proper home and she discovers his heritage.
Of the three women, who will prove to be the beauty?
Does Caroline possess a beautiful soul? In her efforts to have Daniel evicted from Netherfield, the truth will be discovered.
No churlish moralist ever uttered a falser maxim than that "Beauty is but skin deep." Why Beauty is so deep that nobody has ever got to the bottom of it. ~T.C. Henley, "Beauty," A Handful of Paper Shavings, 1861
February 27, 2021
Jane Austen wrote such memorable characters when she penned Pride and Prejudice that spending time with them in sequel stories brings great satisfaction. And, to have this book focus on a few of the minor characters- the Bingleys and two of the younger Bennet sisters made for a fascinating dynamic especially when a few original characters are added to the mix.
Mary and the Captain opens in London when Caroline is smugly rapturous that the younger of her two brothers, Captain Bingley, is on leave and ready to court the exceptional young lady she has chosen for him. Robert Bingley is well satisfied with his career in the army and now is happy to look upon the sweet, beautiful Helena as the object of his romance. Caroline arranges for Charles and Jane Bingley to include Helena to their Netherfield estate for the family Christmas and New Year's Ball they have planned. If only, she could rid the party of Jane's two younger sisters, Mary and Kitty.
When the party adjourns to the country and settles at Netherfield, they are joined by the awkward, shy Mary and impertinent and inquisitive Kitty, but Captain Bingley is late in arriving. In truth, Robert gets lost along the way and finds himself at a slovenly inn where he encounters a young boy, beaten and starving, but happy to serve him when not being mistreated by the innkeeper. He is happy to rejoin his family, reunite with the fair Helena, but he worries about that waif he left behind. It startles him that Miss Bennet, in the face of the indifference of his sister and her friend is ready to aid him in assuring himself that the boy is safe back at that inn and if not, to make him safe. Robert can't help comparing the compassionate and sensible Mary to the affected, selfishness of the pretty Helena. Mary has never been so valued and works hard not to let Captain Bingley's approbation go to her head because she is well aware that he is all but engaged to a most beautiful, wealthy, and well-connected lady. How could it not be so? Meanwhile, she must help with a young lad deserving of a happier future.
A light, heartwarming romance that highlights the difference between the appearance of beauty and the truth beauty of a good woman. I loved seeing shy Mary show her good side and win respect. Robert was a fabulous new character and the vicar, oh boy, was he an admirable addition who enjoyed helping Caroline Bingley find her own inner goodness and beauty. Jane and Charles are sweetly in love and Kitty cracked me up with her pointed, bold statements and questions.
The slow build of the shifting relationships was well written and came together with nice cohesiveness. The house group that also included the local vicar offered much in the way of family and relationship ties. The mystery of young Daniel was a catalyst to show people's true characters and fun to see his story revealed. While this was a sequel, the focus involved so many original characters that it wasn't only a sequel. I did enjoy the check ins with many, but was most pleased to follow this new story path.
I only had one niggle and that is because I loved this story, but I wanted a bit more at the end for several of the storythreads. The story can standalone, but I did feel there is room for a continuation because of the abbreviated ending that left some things open.
All in all, this was a lovely, heartwarming book with a nice conflict, developed characters and relationships, solid background, and a lovely slow burn romance. I can recommend it to those who enjoy Austenesque and sweet historical romance.
Mary and the Captain opens in London when Caroline is smugly rapturous that the younger of her two brothers, Captain Bingley, is on leave and ready to court the exceptional young lady she has chosen for him. Robert Bingley is well satisfied with his career in the army and now is happy to look upon the sweet, beautiful Helena as the object of his romance. Caroline arranges for Charles and Jane Bingley to include Helena to their Netherfield estate for the family Christmas and New Year's Ball they have planned. If only, she could rid the party of Jane's two younger sisters, Mary and Kitty.
When the party adjourns to the country and settles at Netherfield, they are joined by the awkward, shy Mary and impertinent and inquisitive Kitty, but Captain Bingley is late in arriving. In truth, Robert gets lost along the way and finds himself at a slovenly inn where he encounters a young boy, beaten and starving, but happy to serve him when not being mistreated by the innkeeper. He is happy to rejoin his family, reunite with the fair Helena, but he worries about that waif he left behind. It startles him that Miss Bennet, in the face of the indifference of his sister and her friend is ready to aid him in assuring himself that the boy is safe back at that inn and if not, to make him safe. Robert can't help comparing the compassionate and sensible Mary to the affected, selfishness of the pretty Helena. Mary has never been so valued and works hard not to let Captain Bingley's approbation go to her head because she is well aware that he is all but engaged to a most beautiful, wealthy, and well-connected lady. How could it not be so? Meanwhile, she must help with a young lad deserving of a happier future.
A light, heartwarming romance that highlights the difference between the appearance of beauty and the truth beauty of a good woman. I loved seeing shy Mary show her good side and win respect. Robert was a fabulous new character and the vicar, oh boy, was he an admirable addition who enjoyed helping Caroline Bingley find her own inner goodness and beauty. Jane and Charles are sweetly in love and Kitty cracked me up with her pointed, bold statements and questions.
The slow build of the shifting relationships was well written and came together with nice cohesiveness. The house group that also included the local vicar offered much in the way of family and relationship ties. The mystery of young Daniel was a catalyst to show people's true characters and fun to see his story revealed. While this was a sequel, the focus involved so many original characters that it wasn't only a sequel. I did enjoy the check ins with many, but was most pleased to follow this new story path.
I only had one niggle and that is because I loved this story, but I wanted a bit more at the end for several of the storythreads. The story can standalone, but I did feel there is room for a continuation because of the abbreviated ending that left some things open.
All in all, this was a lovely, heartwarming book with a nice conflict, developed characters and relationships, solid background, and a lovely slow burn romance. I can recommend it to those who enjoy Austenesque and sweet historical romance.
March 7, 2018
Can a book be beguiling and adorable? All I know is, that for me, this one is! I loved everything about it!
Mary Bennet, overlooked and rather plain, compared to her other sisters, is shy and pedantic. She has a terrible habit of quoting from 'Fordyce Sermons' just to contribute to a conversation. Poor Mary is now completely upset that additional guests are invited to the family Christmas gathering at Netherfield with Jane and Charles. Caroline Bingley has manipulated Jane and Charles into inviting Caroline's friend, Miss Helena Paget, to allow their brother, Captain Robert Bingley to court her. Mary wants to go to Pemberley with Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. She wants a quiet Christmas with her family.
"I would rather spend Christmas alone in a cave than have to spend it with strangers."
But this Christmas, Mary's star is about to shine and Captain Robert Bingley will bring more turbulence into her life than she ever thought possible. Caroline Bingley, in the meantime, has set her plans in motion that nothing will come between her smitten brother, Robert, and the beautiful vivacious Helena Paget. None were to realize that a poor, battered, young child would be the catalyst to removing the scales from their eyes.
Watching Mary blossom throughout this book was beautiful. Even Kitty with her pert comments had me laughing. Jane and Charles are more aware of what is going on than anyone realizes. But I must say, despite Caroline's manipulation and hurtful comments, you see a small glimmer of a heart. Then there is the Vicar Penrose, a worthy gentleman indeed. There are just so many wonderful moments within this book. I highly recommend this completely beguiling and adorable story!
March 21, 2021
This is my new favorite book. I absolutely loved it and think most people would. It is terrific. I am looking forward to more JAFF from this author. I won't write anything about it because it is that good. Just get a hard copy, trust me-you will want this on your shelf, and start reading. Give yourself a good chunk of time so you can finish it in one sitting. Sigh worthy!
Reread: I keep coming back to this one. I must have read it 7 times by now? Love it.
Reread: I had a few hours so I picked this up for a guaranteed good time!
Reread: Had to read this again. I love it so much. I wish this was a movie.
Reread: I keep coming back to this one. I must have read it 7 times by now? Love it.
Reread: I had a few hours so I picked this up for a guaranteed good time!
Reread: Had to read this again. I love it so much. I wish this was a movie.
January 15, 2024
Oh what a sweet story about an unlikely couple and a daring rescue of an unfortunate stable boy.
I am on a already two day long Mary Bennet reading spree.
I adored the Other Bennet sister and Mary and the Captain was a complete surprise to me too. Such a heartfelt story about an overlooked and bookish character whose true worth was recognized by our dashing captain in red coat. A perfect read for a cold and rainy day.
I exhausted my Mary Bennet featured books and I don't know where will I find the historical romance story that evokes this level of happy warmth in me.
What a joy it is to cheer for overlooked characters that get to shine in their own way and Mary is a perfectly lovable heroine, shy and awkward but good at heart and I am happy that she got the man she deserves.
I am fascinated by myself that I read even this Pride and Prejudice continuation because I gave the original PP story a 1 star rating.
I strongly dislike reading about the Bennet family and Elizabeth and Darcy interest me as much as the amount of time ants spend sleeping which means I couldn't care less.
I strayed of the topic again.
I really liked our protagonists and their story was tender and compelling.
However, Caroline Bingley grated on my nerves. Although she had her redeeming qualities and likeable moments she was too manipulative throughout the story for me to forgive her in the last few pages and her possible future love story doesn't intrigue me at all.
I am in need of some similar secondary characters's time to shine Austenesque novely to coax me out of January Blues.
If anyone has any suggestion, please leave a comment!
I am on a already two day long Mary Bennet reading spree.
I adored the Other Bennet sister and Mary and the Captain was a complete surprise to me too. Such a heartfelt story about an overlooked and bookish character whose true worth was recognized by our dashing captain in red coat. A perfect read for a cold and rainy day.
I exhausted my Mary Bennet featured books and I don't know where will I find the historical romance story that evokes this level of happy warmth in me.
What a joy it is to cheer for overlooked characters that get to shine in their own way and Mary is a perfectly lovable heroine, shy and awkward but good at heart and I am happy that she got the man she deserves.
I am fascinated by myself that I read even this Pride and Prejudice continuation because I gave the original PP story a 1 star rating.
I strongly dislike reading about the Bennet family and Elizabeth and Darcy interest me as much as the amount of time ants spend sleeping which means I couldn't care less.
I strayed of the topic again.
I really liked our protagonists and their story was tender and compelling.
However, Caroline Bingley grated on my nerves. Although she had her redeeming qualities and likeable moments she was too manipulative throughout the story for me to forgive her in the last few pages and her possible future love story doesn't intrigue me at all.
I am in need of some similar secondary characters's time to shine Austenesque novely to coax me out of January Blues.
If anyone has any suggestion, please leave a comment!
November 4, 2018
In this sequel, Caroline Bingley arranges that her best friend, Miss Paget, the lady receiving the attentions of her brother - Captain Bingley - is invited to Netherfield for Christmas. Not to spend time with the Bingley and Bennet families but to ensure that the proposal that the Captain and Miss Paget desire is done. But plans do not always go smoothly.
Loved this, the story, the writing style, it kept me enchanted so much that I read it in one sitting. Definitely and easily in my top five JAFF books of the year.
Delightful re-read for me, loved the story.
Loved this, the story, the writing style, it kept me enchanted so much that I read it in one sitting. Definitely and easily in my top five JAFF books of the year.
Delightful re-read for me, loved the story.
June 26, 2022
I fell in love with this book after the first couple of chapters. Falling in love with Captain Robert Bingley was easy peasey. Falling in love with this Mary took just a bit longer but when I did, I really did. This book has been languishing in my TBR pile for 4 1/2 yrs! But you know how they say that a book comes to you when you're ready for it, or when you need it? This may be true here. I've become a real Mary Bennet champion in the past year or so and I can't seem to get enough. However, I hesitated to start Mary and The Captain yet again, because of the last couple of Mary books I've read. Some authors really like to put her through ___l. Mary goes through quite a bit in this book, too. With every chapter however, I admired Nancy Lawrence's Mary Bennet more and more. She starts out as the Fordyce quoting girl we're familiar with but with her confession to her sister Kitty how uncomfortable she is about the news of strangers being present for what had been the small holiday gathering planned with Jane and Charles Bingley at Netherfield. She acknowledges her lack of social skills and her terrible fears of making a fool of herself. Kitty promises to help. But fairly soon Mary shows a bravery that Kitty doesn't need to help her with.
When Mary meets Captain Bingley for the first time, by herself having breakfast alone due to her early rising habit, she is struck by how handsome he is...and of course she is completely tongue-tied. Poor Mary. He is polite and animated but when the rest of the party starts drifting into the breakfast parlor she knows immediately that the Captain is utterly smitten with and meant to be with another house guest, Caroline Bingley's bosom friend Helena Padgett. Helena Padgett, the perfectly beautiful girl in every way. Like china doll perfect.
Captain Bingley doesn't know what to think of Mary at first, he confesses to his little heartthrob Helena that he thought she was a governess at first. He realizes she is Jane's sister when they gather to go to Christmas morning services together. Later when he tells the family how he came to be late arriving at Netherfield (he got lost) and about the little servant boy he felt so sorry for at the barely serviceable inn he was forced to stay at the night before, he hears mixed opinions regarding his treatment of the little boy from the group gathered. Jane and Charles and Kitty were all very sympathetic toward the boy, Caroline and Helena were rudely dismissive and told him it was unnecessary for him to give the creature another thought. But it was Mary's response the actually surprised him. And that is the start of what takes this tale out of a weeks long tedious house party into an adventure.
This wasn't just Mary's adventure. The rescue of little Daniel Westover and the discovery of his background is one heart-touching exciting tale all on its own. Caroline Bingley's life is slowly coming to a crossroads in some very interesting ways. You see her trying to maintain control over her siblings' lives yet again and she has a chance at getting what she wants with her brother Robert and her friend Helena, an Earl's niece. But Caroline has some learning to do and she learns a lot in this book. She loves her brother and in the end their sibling relationship and his happiness become more important to her than her ambition for the connection Miss Padgett would bring them. I ended up liking her very much by the end of this story. I just wish there was book II waiting for me to read. Or at the least a nice long juicy epilogue. Sigh. The possibility of a love interest for Caroline with the local vicar is just too delicious.
This was a squeaky clean book, but oh my gosh the longing. There was romance but an agonizingly slow road to the HEA with heart wrenching scenes of Mary trying to squash her feelings for someone she loves as she knows he is meant for someone else. Mary and The Captain ends in a dramatic and beautiful way, and I highly recommend this to every JAFF lover and Mary Bennet fan. I know I'll be rereading this in the future. I just wish there'd been that epilogue!
When Mary meets Captain Bingley for the first time, by herself having breakfast alone due to her early rising habit, she is struck by how handsome he is...and of course she is completely tongue-tied. Poor Mary. He is polite and animated but when the rest of the party starts drifting into the breakfast parlor she knows immediately that the Captain is utterly smitten with and meant to be with another house guest, Caroline Bingley's bosom friend Helena Padgett. Helena Padgett, the perfectly beautiful girl in every way. Like china doll perfect.
Captain Bingley doesn't know what to think of Mary at first, he confesses to his little heartthrob Helena that he thought she was a governess at first. He realizes she is Jane's sister when they gather to go to Christmas morning services together. Later when he tells the family how he came to be late arriving at Netherfield (he got lost) and about the little servant boy he felt so sorry for at the barely serviceable inn he was forced to stay at the night before, he hears mixed opinions regarding his treatment of the little boy from the group gathered. Jane and Charles and Kitty were all very sympathetic toward the boy, Caroline and Helena were rudely dismissive and told him it was unnecessary for him to give the creature another thought. But it was Mary's response the actually surprised him. And that is the start of what takes this tale out of a weeks long tedious house party into an adventure.
This wasn't just Mary's adventure. The rescue of little Daniel Westover and the discovery of his background is one heart-touching exciting tale all on its own. Caroline Bingley's life is slowly coming to a crossroads in some very interesting ways. You see her trying to maintain control over her siblings' lives yet again and she has a chance at getting what she wants with her brother Robert and her friend Helena, an Earl's niece. But Caroline has some learning to do and she learns a lot in this book. She loves her brother and in the end their sibling relationship and his happiness become more important to her than her ambition for the connection Miss Padgett would bring them. I ended up liking her very much by the end of this story. I just wish there was book II waiting for me to read. Or at the least a nice long juicy epilogue. Sigh. The possibility of a love interest for Caroline with the local vicar is just too delicious.
This was a squeaky clean book, but oh my gosh the longing. There was romance but an agonizingly slow road to the HEA with heart wrenching scenes of Mary trying to squash her feelings for someone she loves as she knows he is meant for someone else. Mary and The Captain ends in a dramatic and beautiful way, and I highly recommend this to every JAFF lover and Mary Bennet fan. I know I'll be rereading this in the future. I just wish there'd been that epilogue!
March 15, 2024
Fabulous! Simply lovely!
April 29, 2021
Mary’s Happy Ending
A very good continuation of Pride and Prejudice featuring Mary and the Bingleys. In this story, Charles has a younger brother, Captain Robert Bingley. Mary and Kitty are staying at Netherfield while their parents are visiting the Darcys at Pemberley.
Caroline has plans for her friend Miss Paget and her brother to marry. The Captain isn’t opposed, as he he is quite besotted with her. Little do they know how an abused orphan he encounters at an inn will change all their plans.
Very well written page turner. I loved this Mary, and the Captain is definitely swoon worthy. Highly recommend.
A very good continuation of Pride and Prejudice featuring Mary and the Bingleys. In this story, Charles has a younger brother, Captain Robert Bingley. Mary and Kitty are staying at Netherfield while their parents are visiting the Darcys at Pemberley.
Caroline has plans for her friend Miss Paget and her brother to marry. The Captain isn’t opposed, as he he is quite besotted with her. Little do they know how an abused orphan he encounters at an inn will change all their plans.
Very well written page turner. I loved this Mary, and the Captain is definitely swoon worthy. Highly recommend.
July 29, 2023
In this Pride and Prejudice sequel, Caroline Bingley arranges that her best friend, Miss Paget, the lady receiving the attentions of her brother - Captain Bingley - is invited to Netherfield for Christmas. Not to spend time with the Bingley and Bennet families but to ensure that the proposal that the Captain and Miss Paget desire is done. But plans do not always go smoothly.
Loved this, the story, the writing style, it kept me enchanted so much that I read it in one sitting.
A delightful and well-written story and another re-read. Again another re-read.
Loved this, the story, the writing style, it kept me enchanted so much that I read it in one sitting.
A delightful and well-written story and another re-read. Again another re-read.
May 25, 2019
Very good
Soooo good. Hard to put down. Mary is one of my favorite Bennett sisters. Wish Caroline story wasn't left unfinished
Soooo good. Hard to put down. Mary is one of my favorite Bennett sisters. Wish Caroline story wasn't left unfinished
March 6, 2022
I am a great lover of books with Mary Bennet, the middle sister in Pride & Prejudice, as their main focus. This is one of the first I read and still one of my favourites. For most of the book the story flows along nicely and the love story of Captain Bingley and Mary Bennet is very satisfying - the blurb and many of the other reviews give more details what happens within the story so I will not repeat it here.
I think the reason I dropped a star on this title is Caroline Bingley. She is rather more balanced than in a lot of JAFF but still not a particularly loveable character in her actions and my first main feeling of slight dissatisfaction is that she gets off far too lightly.
The second issue I have is that I felt the book ended far too abruptly - after all the unhappiness Mary suffers throughout, it would have lovely to have seen her blossom with Robert.
Overall though, this is still a nice little story and well worth reading if you want to expand your P&P reading beyond D&E.
I think the reason I dropped a star on this title is Caroline Bingley. She is rather more balanced than in a lot of JAFF but still not a particularly loveable character in her actions and my first main feeling of slight dissatisfaction is that she gets off far too lightly.
The second issue I have is that I felt the book ended far too abruptly - after all the unhappiness Mary suffers throughout, it would have lovely to have seen her blossom with Robert.
Overall though, this is still a nice little story and well worth reading if you want to expand your P&P reading beyond D&E.
July 31, 2023
Wonderful!
What a great story this is! I, like many others, love stories that put Mary Bennet in center stage and shine a spotlight on her growing from shy, overlooked and reserved to a more confident and loved character. This is such a sweet story with a delightful depiction of Mary and even gives her a handsome, kind Bingley brother of her own to fall in love with.
What a great story this is! I, like many others, love stories that put Mary Bennet in center stage and shine a spotlight on her growing from shy, overlooked and reserved to a more confident and loved character. This is such a sweet story with a delightful depiction of Mary and even gives her a handsome, kind Bingley brother of her own to fall in love with.
December 23, 2021
If you're looking for angst, this is not the book for you. But if you want to read a lovely, well-crafted story about shy bookworm Mary Bennet (the thoroughly forgettable middle sister in Pride and Prejudice) this is the book to read. The story begins a year after the end of P&P. Mary is still blurting out absurd maxims and quoting from Fordyce's Sermons; but what makes this such an excellent read is the way Mary develops throughout the story in a totally believable way. The author doesn't change her to make her the heroine; she just builds on the character we know from Jane Austen's masterpiece. I won't give away the plot, but watching Mary grow and find love was so sweet and touching, I got a little misty-eyed by the end of the book. There are scenes I have re-read several times because they're so well written. This book has a permanent home on my book shelf.
May 22, 2018
What a lovely sequel with Mary Bennet at the center of the story. I love when the true worth of an individual is discovered when you get to know the individual, be it for better or for worst.
The little boy in the story, Daniel does tug at your heart.
There are many threads left dangling and I would love to see more of Daniel and his grandfather’s interactions as well as some more page time with several of the characters.
The little boy in the story, Daniel does tug at your heart.
There are many threads left dangling and I would love to see more of Daniel and his grandfather’s interactions as well as some more page time with several of the characters.
January 14, 2018
This was very cute and just what I needed on a cold afternoon. I feel the ending was a bit rushed, and some of the characters' development (looking at you, Caroline Bingley) needed more time to seem believable. An extra 100 pages might've been a good idea. But wanting more of something is always a good sign, so I definitely recommend this for P&P lovers.
June 2, 2017
Sweet tale
A twist on the family Bingley, with a new brother and a version of Caroline that deviates modestly. Happiness for a more vibrant, growing Mary. Well written, seems well edited and carefully proofread.
A twist on the family Bingley, with a new brother and a version of Caroline that deviates modestly. Happiness for a more vibrant, growing Mary. Well written, seems well edited and carefully proofread.
December 5, 2019
Very sweet .Liked that Mary finally gets her due. Worth reading.
October 27, 2025
This was cute and I did love Captain Bingley.
August 24, 2025
Mary and the Captain is one of the best, if not the best, Mary Bennet/Pride and Prejudice fanfiction that I’ve ever read.
Though lacking in the strong flavor of feminism in the original Pride and Prejudice or valid criticism of Pride and Prejudice , which The Other Bennet Sister does, Mary and the Captain manages to remain true to Jane Austen’s characterization of Mary Bennet. I resent fanfiction that suggests that Mary needs a major overhaul of her personality and personal aesthetic to be attractive to others. In Mary and the Captain, Mary still experiences a character arc, mainly in realizing she has personal worth and that her voice is important.
I enjoyed that Caroline Bingley had a character arc as well. Some hardcore Pride and Prejudice fans absolutely hate Caroline and have an obsession with her getting a “comeuppance”. Even though Austen characterizes Caroline as the original pick me girl, I understand where Caroline is coming from. Just like the other women in Pride and Prejudice, she is doing her best to navigate a patriarchal world—her methods are just not as brave or noble as Elizabeth’s (but, be so for real, Elizabeth is such an exception for the time period). Thankfully, in Mary and the Captain, Caroline finally gets to use her strong-mindedness for good. I love that for Caroline.
Mary and the Captain additionally touches on class. Early on, Captain Bingley (yes, apparently Mr. Bingley has a little brother) rescues an abused stable boy and brings him to Netherfield. Caroline and Miss Paget (the author’s OC) are appalled, not because he’s dirty or he has injuries, but because Captain Bingley and the others dare to treat the boy like an equal, like he’s from the same social class. The situation reminds me of the Elizabethan history books I’ve read in which “subversive” behavior was tolerated as long as it didn’t threaten the social hierarchy. Although I know my point is frustrated as it turns out that the boy is , the book feels like a Dickens book written by Jane Austen.
Mary and the Captain is not a Rosalind Thorne Mysteries novel, but it is particularly good for what it is. It’s definitely a book I would feel comfortable gifting to my mother or aunt, and that’s important.
Though lacking in the strong flavor of feminism in the original Pride and Prejudice or valid criticism of Pride and Prejudice , which The Other Bennet Sister does, Mary and the Captain manages to remain true to Jane Austen’s characterization of Mary Bennet. I resent fanfiction that suggests that Mary needs a major overhaul of her personality and personal aesthetic to be attractive to others. In Mary and the Captain, Mary still experiences a character arc, mainly in realizing she has personal worth and that her voice is important.
I enjoyed that Caroline Bingley had a character arc as well. Some hardcore Pride and Prejudice fans absolutely hate Caroline and have an obsession with her getting a “comeuppance”. Even though Austen characterizes Caroline as the original pick me girl, I understand where Caroline is coming from. Just like the other women in Pride and Prejudice, she is doing her best to navigate a patriarchal world—her methods are just not as brave or noble as Elizabeth’s (but, be so for real, Elizabeth is such an exception for the time period). Thankfully, in Mary and the Captain, Caroline finally gets to use her strong-mindedness for good. I love that for Caroline.
Mary and the Captain additionally touches on class. Early on, Captain Bingley (yes, apparently Mr. Bingley has a little brother) rescues an abused stable boy and brings him to Netherfield. Caroline and Miss Paget (the author’s OC) are appalled, not because he’s dirty or he has injuries, but because Captain Bingley and the others dare to treat the boy like an equal, like he’s from the same social class. The situation reminds me of the Elizabethan history books I’ve read in which “subversive” behavior was tolerated as long as it didn’t threaten the social hierarchy. Although I know my point is frustrated as it turns out that the boy is , the book feels like a Dickens book written by Jane Austen.
Mary and the Captain is not a Rosalind Thorne Mysteries novel, but it is particularly good for what it is. It’s definitely a book I would feel comfortable gifting to my mother or aunt, and that’s important.
September 10, 2025
I do not know how to begin this review or how to best convey my thoughts on Nancy Lawrence's "Mary and the Captain".
I think I'll start off by saying that Nancy Lawrence did a fine job giving Mary Bennet a more distinct and finer a character.
They say the devil is in the details.
One such detail Ms. Lawrence shines a light on is Mary Bennet's not so great skill at playing the pianoforte. It isn't because she doesn't has as fine an ear for music as she thinks she does. No, it is because Mary Bennet doesn't play to impress. Her music is her emotional outlet.
I know it is a small detail in the story but it is not so small a detail in the drawing of Mary Bennet as an individual, separate from her more infamous sisters (Jane, Lizzie, and Lydia).
Mary has her own thoughts and her own way of expressing them. She is not so harsh a critic as her sister, Lizzie, nor is she as forgiving of others' flaws in their characters as Jane.
I found this Mary, Nancy Lawrence's Mary Bennet to be more relatable than I had Jane Austen's Elizabeth and Jane. I understand why Ms. Austen wrote Elizabeth and Jane as she had.
The fact that the characters she had given each their own distinct personalities and voices to the point that they all remain memorable and beloved to this day is a testament to J.A.'s skill as both a writer and an observer of people in her own family and social circle.
Ms. Lawrence did not improve Mary Bennet nor did she change her I think. Instead she drew on what little glimpses into Mary Bennet's character that Jane Austen gave us in "Pride and Prejudice" and used that as her foundation to more fully develop Mary Bennet as the heroine of her own story.
My humble opinion is that Nancy Lawrence did this successfully.
She also gave us a deeper glimpse into Caroline Bingley, giving her a little bit of a back story through a dialogue with her brother, Robert Bingley (Captain Bingley, the hero in this story). I saw that reveal as a possible partial explanation as to why Caroline Bingley was so harshly critical of others (especially other ladies).
She was still Caroline Bingley, with ambitions that did not wholly align with that of either of her brothers'. However Ms. Lawrence found a way to give Caroline Bingley more than one opportunity to be both herself and to be (at least somewhat) redeemable without asking the reader to suspend too much disbelief.
Charles and Jane too did not deviate any from what we know and remember of them from "Pride and Prejudice". They are a thoroughly likeable couple. Though do not suspect to read too much here about them for they are not the main characters of this story. I did find Jane to be pleasantly practical and protective of Mary, in the conversation she had with her with regards to affections of the heart.
Not so overly much that it was as unbelievable as it was insufferable. (Yes, I have read characters like that in the romance genre overall. It really depends on the character, their role in the story, and what their motivations and reasons are for being so protective.)
Kitty Bennet, too, still retained her love of military officers, that is to say gentlemen in their unforms. But here as a stronger side character I think we get a more mature Kitty Bennet. Once away from her sister, Lydia's influence, she shows here some depth, particularly in expressing her lack of care of what her sister- in- law thinks of her. Kitty perhaps in this story is later on in her teens. She isn't the clueless miss that we perhaps thought of her in P&P.
We also get an introduction to some new side characters, most notable Vicar John Penrose who is instrumental in Caroline Bingley's acts of kindness and redemption.
We get to learn about a Bennet family tradition and a further glimpse into how the Bennet sisters were raised, with particular attention to treatment of others and showing care and appreciation of others that are servants and tradesmen.
This serves another partial explanation as to why Mary Bennet shows such care and compassion to one notable character, a very important one that acts as the catalyst to the growing affections between Mary Bennet and Captain Robert Bingley.
Daniel Westover is an orphaned boy of nine that through no circumstances of his own is found to be in the employ of an innkeeper who is without compassion and I dare say scruples.
Captain Robert Bingley first meets the young Daniel as a stable boy and in rather rough shape. He observes this and does what he can to help the boy, and even protect him, during his overnight stay at the inn.
However it is only after what Mary says during a conversation about the boy that our hero gets more than just a prick of conscious. He feels compelled to go back to the inn to check up on Daniel, to see if his condition has worsened any through something he may have done out of a kindness.
We are also introduced to the initial love interest of Captain Bingley, a Miss Helena Paget, niece to Lord and Lady Breckenridge. She is everything in appearance that Robert most admires in a lady- beautiful, accomplished, and graceful.
However as they say never judge a book by its cover. A lesson that our hero learns further on in the story and as a result is unable to extricate himself from the very determined Helena.
It is through his efforts to help Daniel that he discovers an ally in Mary Bennet. She stands with him against others who protest his bringing Daniel to Netherfield. She also stands up to the brutish innkeeper upon discovering Daniel with a bruise on his face and a swollen lip.
Robert Bingley gets his first real glimpse into Mary's character, as well as her compassionate and steadfast nature.
And what do I think of Captain Robert Bingley?
I think he is every inch the gentleman.
Ms. Lawrence did him a great justice, I think, letting Captain Robert Bingley shine as his own man, a man with his own ambitions different from his sister's and those of his brother's.
He has compassion, consideration, intelligence, and bravery, too. He dares to sometimes do what is necessary, even if it means flying in the face of the conventional rules.
Even if it means holding his own against Caroline and his initially would- be affianced, Helena.
Captain Robert Bingley is a man of morals and stands by his convictions through his actions.
In this, he is entirely worthy of the shy yet strong- minded Mary Bennet.
A young lady that shares his values and mirrors him through her own convictions and actions. They are two opposites of a whole, delightfully and tenderly suited for each other.
It's such a joy to read a romance between two characters that show themselves to be good people and totally deserving of each other.
I gave it four stars not to knock a star off but to show how well a story Ms. Lawrence written.
The language used was more reflective of the Regency period without being too stuffy sounding in one's own head. In this regard, I think most would find it a very easy read.
No words were used that was out of turn or that would jolt one out of the story, or the belief that the period we are being transported to is the Regency. (I have, unfortunately, read Regency- set romances where such words as "wow" were used in dialogue. I have read letters and journal entries of real people from that time period. Certain words then were not in the common English vernacular or were even- at that time- in existence. Ms. Lawrence has taken a care here to be as authentic to the period's language as is possible without allowing herself to get too bogged down with the task or delivery.)
I found the end to be as perfect as it could be for the story. The whole of the last chapter I was holding my breath as I read it. The way the hero humbles himself and the earnest disbelief of the heroine at his doing so was just right, befitting both His and Her characters. Nothing shown or said was out of character.
Finally, a bit of a spoiler: This is a clean romance with only a kissing of the hand scene and as well as a scene of the hero and heroine exchanging a kiss (or two). No, I will not reveal when those happen in the story but I do think most readers will be satisfied as to both scenes placements in the book.
The language used throughout is devoid of cuss words. There are off scene moments of physical abuse that the innkeeper (allegedly) inflicts upon Daniel. But as I have said, those incidents happen off page and we are left to only surmise that Daniel is being abused by his employer. So fair warning, there may be a trigger or two for some in this book.
Too the reaction to Daniel from Caroline and Helena might also be a trigger for some as neither has a compassionate reaction to the young boy's entry into Netherfield, and into their as yet uninterrupted bubble of holiday perfection (or near to anyway).
As of right now, I cannot think of any complaints about this story. Nancy Lawrence had me engaged throughout and had me wondering how the two central issues would be resolved (Daniel's fate and that of the seemingly impossibility of Robert and Mary being able to be together).
If you would like to try a Regency romance that is not at all a "bodice ripper" and features an honorable gentleman- hero and a heroine whose inner- beauty that wins the heart and admiration of the hero then this is most definitely for you.
I think I'll start off by saying that Nancy Lawrence did a fine job giving Mary Bennet a more distinct and finer a character.
They say the devil is in the details.
One such detail Ms. Lawrence shines a light on is Mary Bennet's not so great skill at playing the pianoforte. It isn't because she doesn't has as fine an ear for music as she thinks she does. No, it is because Mary Bennet doesn't play to impress. Her music is her emotional outlet.
I know it is a small detail in the story but it is not so small a detail in the drawing of Mary Bennet as an individual, separate from her more infamous sisters (Jane, Lizzie, and Lydia).
Mary has her own thoughts and her own way of expressing them. She is not so harsh a critic as her sister, Lizzie, nor is she as forgiving of others' flaws in their characters as Jane.
I found this Mary, Nancy Lawrence's Mary Bennet to be more relatable than I had Jane Austen's Elizabeth and Jane. I understand why Ms. Austen wrote Elizabeth and Jane as she had.
The fact that the characters she had given each their own distinct personalities and voices to the point that they all remain memorable and beloved to this day is a testament to J.A.'s skill as both a writer and an observer of people in her own family and social circle.
Ms. Lawrence did not improve Mary Bennet nor did she change her I think. Instead she drew on what little glimpses into Mary Bennet's character that Jane Austen gave us in "Pride and Prejudice" and used that as her foundation to more fully develop Mary Bennet as the heroine of her own story.
My humble opinion is that Nancy Lawrence did this successfully.
She also gave us a deeper glimpse into Caroline Bingley, giving her a little bit of a back story through a dialogue with her brother, Robert Bingley (Captain Bingley, the hero in this story). I saw that reveal as a possible partial explanation as to why Caroline Bingley was so harshly critical of others (especially other ladies).
She was still Caroline Bingley, with ambitions that did not wholly align with that of either of her brothers'. However Ms. Lawrence found a way to give Caroline Bingley more than one opportunity to be both herself and to be (at least somewhat) redeemable without asking the reader to suspend too much disbelief.
Charles and Jane too did not deviate any from what we know and remember of them from "Pride and Prejudice". They are a thoroughly likeable couple. Though do not suspect to read too much here about them for they are not the main characters of this story. I did find Jane to be pleasantly practical and protective of Mary, in the conversation she had with her with regards to affections of the heart.
Not so overly much that it was as unbelievable as it was insufferable. (Yes, I have read characters like that in the romance genre overall. It really depends on the character, their role in the story, and what their motivations and reasons are for being so protective.)
Kitty Bennet, too, still retained her love of military officers, that is to say gentlemen in their unforms. But here as a stronger side character I think we get a more mature Kitty Bennet. Once away from her sister, Lydia's influence, she shows here some depth, particularly in expressing her lack of care of what her sister- in- law thinks of her. Kitty perhaps in this story is later on in her teens. She isn't the clueless miss that we perhaps thought of her in P&P.
We also get an introduction to some new side characters, most notable Vicar John Penrose who is instrumental in Caroline Bingley's acts of kindness and redemption.
We get to learn about a Bennet family tradition and a further glimpse into how the Bennet sisters were raised, with particular attention to treatment of others and showing care and appreciation of others that are servants and tradesmen.
This serves another partial explanation as to why Mary Bennet shows such care and compassion to one notable character, a very important one that acts as the catalyst to the growing affections between Mary Bennet and Captain Robert Bingley.
Daniel Westover is an orphaned boy of nine that through no circumstances of his own is found to be in the employ of an innkeeper who is without compassion and I dare say scruples.
Captain Robert Bingley first meets the young Daniel as a stable boy and in rather rough shape. He observes this and does what he can to help the boy, and even protect him, during his overnight stay at the inn.
However it is only after what Mary says during a conversation about the boy that our hero gets more than just a prick of conscious. He feels compelled to go back to the inn to check up on Daniel, to see if his condition has worsened any through something he may have done out of a kindness.
We are also introduced to the initial love interest of Captain Bingley, a Miss Helena Paget, niece to Lord and Lady Breckenridge. She is everything in appearance that Robert most admires in a lady- beautiful, accomplished, and graceful.
However as they say never judge a book by its cover. A lesson that our hero learns further on in the story and as a result is unable to extricate himself from the very determined Helena.
It is through his efforts to help Daniel that he discovers an ally in Mary Bennet. She stands with him against others who protest his bringing Daniel to Netherfield. She also stands up to the brutish innkeeper upon discovering Daniel with a bruise on his face and a swollen lip.
Robert Bingley gets his first real glimpse into Mary's character, as well as her compassionate and steadfast nature.
And what do I think of Captain Robert Bingley?
I think he is every inch the gentleman.
Ms. Lawrence did him a great justice, I think, letting Captain Robert Bingley shine as his own man, a man with his own ambitions different from his sister's and those of his brother's.
He has compassion, consideration, intelligence, and bravery, too. He dares to sometimes do what is necessary, even if it means flying in the face of the conventional rules.
Even if it means holding his own against Caroline and his initially would- be affianced, Helena.
Captain Robert Bingley is a man of morals and stands by his convictions through his actions.
In this, he is entirely worthy of the shy yet strong- minded Mary Bennet.
A young lady that shares his values and mirrors him through her own convictions and actions. They are two opposites of a whole, delightfully and tenderly suited for each other.
It's such a joy to read a romance between two characters that show themselves to be good people and totally deserving of each other.
I gave it four stars not to knock a star off but to show how well a story Ms. Lawrence written.
The language used was more reflective of the Regency period without being too stuffy sounding in one's own head. In this regard, I think most would find it a very easy read.
No words were used that was out of turn or that would jolt one out of the story, or the belief that the period we are being transported to is the Regency. (I have, unfortunately, read Regency- set romances where such words as "wow" were used in dialogue. I have read letters and journal entries of real people from that time period. Certain words then were not in the common English vernacular or were even- at that time- in existence. Ms. Lawrence has taken a care here to be as authentic to the period's language as is possible without allowing herself to get too bogged down with the task or delivery.)
I found the end to be as perfect as it could be for the story. The whole of the last chapter I was holding my breath as I read it. The way the hero humbles himself and the earnest disbelief of the heroine at his doing so was just right, befitting both His and Her characters. Nothing shown or said was out of character.
Finally, a bit of a spoiler: This is a clean romance with only a kissing of the hand scene and as well as a scene of the hero and heroine exchanging a kiss (or two). No, I will not reveal when those happen in the story but I do think most readers will be satisfied as to both scenes placements in the book.
The language used throughout is devoid of cuss words. There are off scene moments of physical abuse that the innkeeper (allegedly) inflicts upon Daniel. But as I have said, those incidents happen off page and we are left to only surmise that Daniel is being abused by his employer. So fair warning, there may be a trigger or two for some in this book.
Too the reaction to Daniel from Caroline and Helena might also be a trigger for some as neither has a compassionate reaction to the young boy's entry into Netherfield, and into their as yet uninterrupted bubble of holiday perfection (or near to anyway).
As of right now, I cannot think of any complaints about this story. Nancy Lawrence had me engaged throughout and had me wondering how the two central issues would be resolved (Daniel's fate and that of the seemingly impossibility of Robert and Mary being able to be together).
If you would like to try a Regency romance that is not at all a "bodice ripper" and features an honorable gentleman- hero and a heroine whose inner- beauty that wins the heart and admiration of the hero then this is most definitely for you.
June 28, 2017
This is another sequel to Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice that focuses on Mary. I can't say this one was as good as others I've read but I can't say it was completely terrible either. It's better than a lot of the work I've read and had a decent story line.
The story follows Mary as she is planning for a small family Christmas with Jane and Charles Bingley. Charles' sister Caroline invites their other brother, Captain Robert Bingley, and her best friend Helen. Caroline is hoping that Robert will propose to Helen over the Christmas holiday, as he has been majorly courting her throughout the season. Mary is not happy with this as she does terribly around people and just wants to be around people with whom she can be relaxed and let her guard down.
Throughout the holiday activities, Robert notices more and more things about Helen he doesn't like that he hadn't noticed (or was prevented from noticing) before - and there are more and more reasons he finds to spend time in Mary's company. He and Mary work together to help save a stable boy Robert encounters on his way to Charles' house. As the two spend more and more time together, the more Mary fights her feelings and becomes miserable. The events culminate in an eventful ball right at the end of the story.
I have to say the story line was original. I had a few twists and turns that I didn't see, but for the most part it was fairly straight forward. You could see most of the events coming and how the people would react to them. I can't say there was a lot of emotional development throughout the book, but that is mainly because the characters are set up and described so well at the beginning of the book and don't change overly much throughout. They are fully developed characters that work in the story line, but the time frame doesn't allow for major emotional or personal growth.
I'd recommend it to fans of Pride and Prejudice sequels that focus on Mary. This book includes Kitty and Jane to some extent, and of course Charles and Caroline are there, but there is minimal influence to the story line outside of Robert and Mary. I liked the way Jane was portrayed in this book. She seemed to be the individual that grew the most between Pride and Prejudice and this book. Overall, it was a good, solid, interesting read. I can't say I'll read it again readily, but that is mainly because once you know the story line, there really isn't much to draw you back in. It is completely clean, and therefore suitable for all audiences.
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The story follows Mary as she is planning for a small family Christmas with Jane and Charles Bingley. Charles' sister Caroline invites their other brother, Captain Robert Bingley, and her best friend Helen. Caroline is hoping that Robert will propose to Helen over the Christmas holiday, as he has been majorly courting her throughout the season. Mary is not happy with this as she does terribly around people and just wants to be around people with whom she can be relaxed and let her guard down.
Throughout the holiday activities, Robert notices more and more things about Helen he doesn't like that he hadn't noticed (or was prevented from noticing) before - and there are more and more reasons he finds to spend time in Mary's company. He and Mary work together to help save a stable boy Robert encounters on his way to Charles' house. As the two spend more and more time together, the more Mary fights her feelings and becomes miserable. The events culminate in an eventful ball right at the end of the story.
I have to say the story line was original. I had a few twists and turns that I didn't see, but for the most part it was fairly straight forward. You could see most of the events coming and how the people would react to them. I can't say there was a lot of emotional development throughout the book, but that is mainly because the characters are set up and described so well at the beginning of the book and don't change overly much throughout. They are fully developed characters that work in the story line, but the time frame doesn't allow for major emotional or personal growth.
I'd recommend it to fans of Pride and Prejudice sequels that focus on Mary. This book includes Kitty and Jane to some extent, and of course Charles and Caroline are there, but there is minimal influence to the story line outside of Robert and Mary. I liked the way Jane was portrayed in this book. She seemed to be the individual that grew the most between Pride and Prejudice and this book. Overall, it was a good, solid, interesting read. I can't say I'll read it again readily, but that is mainly because once you know the story line, there really isn't much to draw you back in. It is completely clean, and therefore suitable for all audiences.
Check out my blog: www.bookmouseblog.wordpress.com
August 18, 2022
This was a cute story.
Is it 100% true to character? Not entirely. It felt like nicer versions of everyone, which I'm into. It's also a rather pared down cast list, which is nice. There's Mr. and Mrs. Bingley, Caroline, Kitty, and Mary for those we're familiar with and four original characters that make their marks.
Quite a few original characters with Captain Bingley being the biggest one. He was an interesting character. He's not without flaw, but he certainly feels flawless. I've been sitting here trying to think back to specifics moments in the book, I'm having a hard time. Maybe someone with a better memory than me would have an easier time. There's the judgement call he made that is basically starts the plot of the book. There's another moment that comes back to bite him. This makes it seem like I dislike him and I don't. I did enjoy his character particularly in contrast to Charles.
Mary's explained as being shy and nervous around strangers. She doesn't know what to say and blurts out quotes she read, and isn't' trying to sermonize to strangers/family, but merely trying to stay afloat in conversation. I like this interpretation of her more. Kitty and Jane are sympathetic and do help her out.
This book almost made me like Caroline Bingley. Unlike her, I have no problem saying I'm prejudiced against her. I am. I don't care if she gets a happy ending. I enjoy reading her comeuppance. Here I had to settle with her feeling unsettled with her interactions with a certain someone. I liked the certain someone, although I don't know what he saw in her. Would I read a book about those two? Probably.
Is it 100% true to character? Not entirely. It felt like nicer versions of everyone, which I'm into. It's also a rather pared down cast list, which is nice. There's Mr. and Mrs. Bingley, Caroline, Kitty, and Mary for those we're familiar with and four original characters that make their marks.
Quite a few original characters with Captain Bingley being the biggest one. He was an interesting character. He's not without flaw, but he certainly feels flawless. I've been sitting here trying to think back to specifics moments in the book, I'm having a hard time. Maybe someone with a better memory than me would have an easier time. There's the judgement call he made that is basically starts the plot of the book. There's another moment that comes back to bite him. This makes it seem like I dislike him and I don't. I did enjoy his character particularly in contrast to Charles.
Mary's explained as being shy and nervous around strangers. She doesn't know what to say and blurts out quotes she read, and isn't' trying to sermonize to strangers/family, but merely trying to stay afloat in conversation. I like this interpretation of her more. Kitty and Jane are sympathetic and do help her out.
This book almost made me like Caroline Bingley. Unlike her, I have no problem saying I'm prejudiced against her. I am. I don't care if she gets a happy ending. I enjoy reading her comeuppance. Here I had to settle with her feeling unsettled with her interactions with a certain someone. I liked the certain someone, although I don't know what he saw in her. Would I read a book about those two? Probably.
December 11, 2020
4/5 stars
Did I really look for other P&P stories that centered on Mary Bennet immediately after I read The Other Bennet Sister? You bet I did! And I finally ordered What Kitty Did Next and you can bet your toosh that I'll be devouring it as soon as it arrives.
This book focused more on Mary's love life rather than a character evolution. Mary is whole-heartedly herself and while she shies away from others, she has a valiant and compassionate heart fostered by her extensive reading. Lawrence approaches her character differently than Hadlow, but I believe they both kept her in-character and showed how a person can take such divergent paths. While the Mary of TOBS dreams of her own home, the Mary of MATC dreams of adventure and visiting the various places she's read about.
I also really liked Robert. He went through the most development (sans his sister Caroline) and I'm glad he acknowledged his own prejudices and his own understanding of the world evolved. He complimented Mary well and I adored their ending. CAROLINE THOUGH. I loved her in TOBS but here she's just so much fun to follow around. Sticking her nose up at everyone but then realizing that *gasp* she has a HEART. Again, while Lawrence took the character a different route than Hadlow, both felt true to their characters.
Anyway, I really enjoyed it and the only reason I'm giving it 4 stars is that the narrative didn't spend enough time with Mary. Robert and Caroline are given significant focus and that's great, but since Mary's the titular character, I wanted more of her and her pining.
Did I really look for other P&P stories that centered on Mary Bennet immediately after I read The Other Bennet Sister? You bet I did! And I finally ordered What Kitty Did Next and you can bet your toosh that I'll be devouring it as soon as it arrives.
This book focused more on Mary's love life rather than a character evolution. Mary is whole-heartedly herself and while she shies away from others, she has a valiant and compassionate heart fostered by her extensive reading. Lawrence approaches her character differently than Hadlow, but I believe they both kept her in-character and showed how a person can take such divergent paths. While the Mary of TOBS dreams of her own home, the Mary of MATC dreams of adventure and visiting the various places she's read about.
I also really liked Robert. He went through the most development (sans his sister Caroline) and I'm glad he acknowledged his own prejudices and his own understanding of the world evolved. He complimented Mary well and I adored their ending. CAROLINE THOUGH. I loved her in TOBS but here she's just so much fun to follow around. Sticking her nose up at everyone but then realizing that *gasp* she has a HEART. Again, while Lawrence took the character a different route than Hadlow, both felt true to their characters.
Anyway, I really enjoyed it and the only reason I'm giving it 4 stars is that the narrative didn't spend enough time with Mary. Robert and Caroline are given significant focus and that's great, but since Mary's the titular character, I wanted more of her and her pining.
June 11, 2017
What an excellent novel that brought out the third Bennet daughter from a shy, plain and unnoticeable young lady showing her the beauty that lies within her. It shows a compassionate, caring, thoughtful and not dull young lady. The plot was written with great care to make Mary as great as Elizabeth and Jane in character.
Naturally, she had the help of a young captain that gave her confidence and boosted her in trusting him so that they worked together for the care of a so assumed street urchin. I won't go into the plot as to not spoil it for others but it is a very interesting part of the story.
Caroline Bingley can be lovable and hateful and that she was in this novel.
The story revolves mostly about Mary, Captain Bingley and a few others, however the others were important to the storyline.
This is the first novel I have read from the author and look forward to many more.
I thought her writing was remarkable, the plot held my interest and it was entertaining.
Naturally, she had the help of a young captain that gave her confidence and boosted her in trusting him so that they worked together for the care of a so assumed street urchin. I won't go into the plot as to not spoil it for others but it is a very interesting part of the story.
Caroline Bingley can be lovable and hateful and that she was in this novel.
The story revolves mostly about Mary, Captain Bingley and a few others, however the others were important to the storyline.
This is the first novel I have read from the author and look forward to many more.
I thought her writing was remarkable, the plot held my interest and it was entertaining.
August 13, 2020
3.5 stars
Pretty good read. I liked the storyline and enjoyed the author's writing. The only drawback for me was Mary and the Captain appeared more like best friends or brother and sister in my opinion. I was honestly okay with keeping the relationship that way because I didn't see enough from the Captain to make me push for the pairing. The author showed the Captain's thoughts and feelings for Helena early on in the book, but not for Mary. It wasn't until the end that he confessed his love, but it just seem like there was no spark there, pretty dry. I know there was respect and they shared common interest, but that does automatically mean you are in love with someone. However, Mr Penrose and Carolina's relationship was subtle and sweet and I was totally sold on that one.
Pretty good read. I liked the storyline and enjoyed the author's writing. The only drawback for me was Mary and the Captain appeared more like best friends or brother and sister in my opinion. I was honestly okay with keeping the relationship that way because I didn't see enough from the Captain to make me push for the pairing. The author showed the Captain's thoughts and feelings for Helena early on in the book, but not for Mary. It wasn't until the end that he confessed his love, but it just seem like there was no spark there, pretty dry. I know there was respect and they shared common interest, but that does automatically mean you are in love with someone. However, Mr Penrose and Carolina's relationship was subtle and sweet and I was totally sold on that one.
August 4, 2022
This book is my new favorite story to turn to when I just want something to make the world go away. It's romantic and entertaining and super sweet. It's also well written and the characters are carefully crafted. They're all true to what Jane Austen herself would have written IMO and the new characters blend in seamlessly. I keep rereading my favorite parts and wishing there were more. If you love Jane Austen or Pride and Prejudice, or even sweet clean Regency romances, I recommend you read this book.
March 7, 2021
love reading more about Mary
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