At first glance, Anne de Bourgh doesn’t seem a promising heroine. But beneath that quiet exterior, there’s a lively mind at work, imaging how one day she will escape her poor health and her mother’s domination to find love and a life worth living. Now Anne finally gets the chance to speak her mind. But Lady Catherine demands equal time. Even Charlotte Collins and Mrs. Jenkinson get into the act. Chapter by chapter, these ladies of Rosings Park take turns telling the tale from the moment Elizabeth Bennet sets foot in Hunsford, changing everything. Is Anne heartbroken or relieved to discover Mr. Darcy will never marry her? As an heiress, even a sickly one, she must have other suitors. Does Lady Catherine accept the defeat of her original plan gracefully or keep conniving? Will Anne’s health ever improve? And what really happened to her father? This work expands The Darcys of Pemberley series laterally, beginning during the timeline of Pride and Prejudice and carrying beyond to reveal the rest of Anne’s story. When a young lady is to be a heroine… something must and will happen to throw a hero in her way. (Jane Austen, Northanger Abbey)
I really, really love the first person narrative device Ms. Winslow uses here. Each lady of Rosings Park (Anne de Bourgh, Lady Catherine, Mrs. Jenkinson and Charlotte Collins) has her say in telling Anne's story, with a new speaker every chapter. While there's occasional overlap, the tale generally flows in a continuous, chronological line. What's most fun is when we leave one narrator mid-scene and the next chapter picks up at the same spot, but from another narrator's point of view.
The book is broken into three parts that relate events from three distinct phases of Anne's life. The first coincides with the period of time during Pride and Prejudice and includes all of those events, and their immediate aftermath, as experienced by the residents of Rosings. In the second part, Anne's health is the primary concern. Dr. Essex is the latest in a string of doctors Lady Catherine has brought in to cure her daughter's debilitating headaches, poor appetite and weakness. He suggests a completely different regimen than has been attempted previously, and he has a knack for managing Lady Catherine. The last section of the book describes a series of suitors Lady Catherine arranges to come to Rosings. Eventually Anne is betrothed to a man she is comfortable with who also has her mother's approval.
It is really admirable how each "voice" in these chapters is distinctively different from the others. Anne's personality just shines. Her imaginings are especially delightful, as she considers all the things she would say and do if she only had the courage and the physical stamina. She's bright and observant. She loves her mother but isn't blind to her shortcomings. Lady Catherine's chapters are uniformly self-congratulatory. The woman's ego knows no bounds, and she's clearly not as perceptive as she thinks she is. Poor Mrs. Jenkinson is in the unenviable position of trying to be Anne's companion, nurse, lady's maid and friend, and she often must follow Lady Catherine's directives against her own better judgement. Dear Charlotte, of course, doesn't live at Rosings, but she provides a valuable perspective from an outsider's point of view.
There's even a little bit of mystery sprinkled in here, too. Anne still misses her father, who treated her with warmth and love and, sadly, died when she was a young teenager. But Lady Catherine hints to the reader about some weakness in his character that isn't known to Anne.
My only reservation with the plot is a curious detail that doesn't seem to have anything to do with the rest of the story. When Anne's betrothal is announced at Pemberley, Georgiana's reaction seems to beg some explanation. It's obvious to the reader (though not to Anne) that she's distressed, but nothing further is ever mentioned about it. Why bring it up if it has no bearing on the rest of the story?This is a minor quibble, though, in what is otherwise an excellent story told in an admirably creative way. I love it.
Anne de Bourgh, pale, sickly, and rich, with a desirable inheritance and the promise of a brilliant betrothal, seemed to have a blessed future ahead of her. Or at least she did until Miss Elizabeth Bennet walked into her life and changed everything. With no expected betrothal, no marriage prospects, indifferent health, and her mother’s severely disappointed hopes Anne is left wondering what path her future will take… Will her mother find another auspicious suitor for her to marry? Will she be forced to settle for a marriage of convenience? Or will she find a chance of romance?
While there are many Pride and Prejudice sequels that share what becomes of Georgiana Darcy, Kitty Bennet, and Mary Bennet, Shannon Winslow has instead decided to focus her lens on some secondary characters that are not usually given a large spotlight (although one of them often demands to have her share of it!) In this charming sequel, readers will see parts of Pride and Prejudice from the point-of-views of Anne de Bourgh, Lady Catherine, Charlotte Collins, and Mrs. Jenkinson, as well as learn what becomes of them all after the close of Jane Austen’s beloved tale. Readers will not only be privy to the astute observations and inner thoughts of these ladies, but also witness their private feelings and emotions.
To hear from such a diverse group of ladies with such different situations in life and unique personalities sounds like quite a delightful prospect, doesn’t it? Absolutely! Especially when the author who is depicting these differing perspectives captures the voice and individual personality of each character with flawless authenticity. I hope Shannon Winslow takes this as a compliment, but she perfectly channels Lady C’s exalted pride, frankness of character, and imperious attitude! Her speech and inner thoughts (or should I say schemes and machinations) were some of the most entertaining to read.
As someone who is of a quiet nature themselves, I most loved seeing more from the quiet personalities of Anne de Bourgh and Mrs. Jenkinson. I loved seeing how Anne viewed the world – what she thought of her cousins, her mother, her future. Ms. Winslow pleasantly fleshes out Anne’s character and gives her a heartwarming affection for her cousins, a fond attachment to her father, a sincere friendship with Mrs. Jenkinson, and girlish dreams of romance. I loved being witness to Anne’s daydreams and seeing how she would imagine different scenes of her life taking place or seeing her playing out various conversations. It shows that she has a witty and lively mind but just lacks the courage and confidence to speak out more.
Another element I greatly enjoyed in this story was seeing the interesting dynamic and differences between Lady C and her daughter – how both seem to want to do their duty/responsibility, yet there isn’t much affection or admiration between them. In addition, I also loved seeing more of Mr. Essex, who is sent after a long line of unsuccessful doctors to see if he could help improve Anne’s health. His care and concern are sincere and I enjoyed seeing how he could deftly handle Lady Catherine into doing his will. 😉 And lastly, I enjoyed the little hints we learned about the past – like what Mrs. Jenkinson’s life was like before she became Anne’s companion and what happened to Anne’s father when she was fourteen.
With her newest Austenesque release Shannon Winslow brings readers on an exceptionally satisfying sojourn to Rosings Parks and delivers a thoughtful and thorough tale of the ladies that live therein. I highly recommend!
(NOTE: this alternate point-of-view sequel parallels Shannon Winslow’s The Darcys of Pemberley, and while this story does stand alone for the most part, there are some details alluded to in this sequel that are further expounded upon in The Darcys of Pemberley.)
Imaginative, poignant and triumphant, three wonderful qualities of this beautifully written story. I just loved it!
"Butter may be smooth and pleasing on the tongue, but it will not sharpen a sword. Something providing more resistance is required." (quote from the book)
Imaginative: Did you ever wonder what life was like for sickly Anne de Bourgh living with the domineering Lady Catherine? What were her thoughts on Elizabeth Bennet and the loss of Fitzwilliam Darcy to her? What would happen if a young educated physician was eventually found to try and cure Anne? How would that change things? Anne doesn't even talk in canon and here Ms. Winslow has created an Anne that will pull at your heartstrings. We not only get Anne's point of view in this story, but Lady Catherine's, Mrs. Jenkinson's (such a dear woman) and from time to time, Charlotte Collins. I loved being inside the heads of each of these women as they are given their own chapters as the story unfolds.
"Before, I had a husband telling me what to do; now, I had Lady Catherine de Bourgh." (quote from the book)
Poignant: To live one's life within such a small world must have been so boring. But Anne has a very active imagination when she is not completely debilitated by severe headaches and fatigue. Being constantly controlled and criticized by her mother is not helping either. Anne, however, lives her life through books and the memories of her father. I was completely captivated by Anne and her determination to persevere. At times, my heart would ache for what she is going through.
"Unlike my body, my mind knows no limits." (quote from the book)
Triumphant: This book has you cheering for Anne as she battles her illness, her mother's machinations and her heart. I was so thrilled for Anne's growth in this story and her strength of character.
"His confidence would have meant the world to me. His belief in my worth as a woman would have given me tremendous satisfaction." (quote from the book)
Colonel Fitzwilliam plays a large role in this story, as 'the one who will not be mentioned', is persona non grata. We do have glimpses of the Mr. & Mrs. Darcy and Georgiana. There is also a mystery of sorts threading its way through the story that had me pondering how it would be solved. As this book follows as a companion book to 'The Darcys of Pemberley', I do recommend that you read that one first to have a better understanding of some of the story. It does stand on its own though.
As the blurb and other reviews tell us, this story is told from 4 ladies' POV. Anne de Bourgh is the focal point...this is very much her story. However we also hear much from her mother, Lady Catherine, her companion, Mrs. Jenkinson and a little from Charlotte Collins. Colonel JOHN Fitzwilliam plays a large role but we don't read his thoughts.
Most of this story is a sequel but we do go over the expectations that Darcy is going to marry his cousin, Anne, and what happens when he visits Rosings and finds Elizabeth Bennet there.
After Darcy's defection Lady Catherine goes into high gear lining up other suitable men to meet with and possibly court Anne. Meanwhile she also has brought in a young doctor, Mr. Essex, who uses more modern methods to bring Anne to good health. A balance of food, exercise and emotional controls help to bring that about.
You many guess where this story is going (as I did) but I was disappointed that we never find out why Georgiana was upset when she learns of Anne's engagement. That's another story. I have read all of this author's other P&P variations so I have that background. I would recommend reading those also. This story is a stand alone but the other stories are also well done.
This is just a delightful P&P what if sequel that follows four female characters during and after the Darcys marriage. Starring Anne deBourgh, her mother Lady Catherine, her companion Mrs. Jenkinson and poor Charlotte Collins. This is a story with some secrets that are mildly telegraphed if you are paying attention. We follow Anne as she regains her health thanks to a new doctor, embarks on a bit of a social whirl and learns to stand up to her mother. Lady C is Lady C. Mrs Jenkinson is given a bit of a background to make her more human. It is Charlotte who really gets skipped over and then mostly written out. Yet leaves on unanswered mystery
I always enjoy Shannon Winslow’s prose. She has wonderful command of her Austenesque style. Told from the perspective of four separate ladies at Rosings Park, Winslow gives an authentic voice to each and weaves their stories masterfully. In times like these when there is a glut of Jane Austen fanfiction—so much to read, so little time—or so much to read but not wanting the same old thing—I can easily recommend this clean and thoughtful narrative. Winslow knows how to write a good story!
This one was ok…not a fan of Rosings Park. I always thought it a gloomy place and this book confirms that it kind of was. I love reading Shannon Winslow but I like reading happier places.
It was so satisfying to me to see Anne de Bourgh get her own happy ending. The author took this minor character of Pride and Prejudice, fleshed her out and gave her her own story. Anne was more than a sympathetic heroine in this story, she had a vibrant personality, strength of spirit and active imagination. Her love story was very satisfying. This book was told from several POVs including Anne, Lady Catherine, Mrs. Jenkinson (Annes companion) and Charlotte Collins. I primarily listened to this on audible. The narration was fantastic ! This is a companion book to The Darcy’s of Pemberley. It could be read as a standalone but I highly recommend this whole series. Wonderful read!
It took me over a month to read this book Because with me heading home and driving there and getting settled in I finally finished it..it was quite a story glad that Anne found herself someone she loves and still Lady Catherine up to her tricks and rudeness took me off guard at the end of her seeing her father whom she thought was dead and her having a step Bro! That was a shocker..but over all nice story
This is a delightful well written sequel to the Pride and Prejudice canon. It’s wonderful to read such a charming novel of the secondary characters of the original book. Giving life and fully developed characteristics to them. No going over the angst of the standard couples—Elizabeth/Darcy; Jane/Bingley; Lydia/Wickham.
Anne is the shining star who sheds her pale illness to become a fully formed happy woman. I highly recommend this novel
Shannon Winslow is a gem of a writer. There is nothing quite like going back to Pemberley and Rosings Park and finding out what really happened to Austen’s most beloved characters. Winslow’s is a clever and authentic voice. Her sequels and companion books are a pure joy for me, especially on Audible.
This was my favorite of this series. I found Anne's journey of personal growth to be compelling. This book was definitely cozy. It didn't challenge any of the ideas I had about Jane Austen or the times she lived in. However, sometimes cozy is exactly what you need.
I love pride and prejudice..I love the characters and Shannon Winslow brings them back to life..This is not the first time I read her books and it certainly won’t be the last
A very enjoyable book. No P&P, of course, but a legitimate and successful variation. I particularly enjoyed the multiple narrators. Definitely recommend.
I'm loving the continuation of Anne's story. I'm just thrilled she not the shriveled up girl spurned. Instead, she's really likable as she comes into her own. Love this book
As with the previous books in this series I was captivated by the way it was presented. I look forward to the next installment and see what it will bring.
Part of the book is related to the original P&P, but from the POV of Lady Catherine, Anne, Charlotte and Mrs Jenkinson. The rest is related to a sequel previously written by Ms Winslow, but it's not necessary to have read it to appreciate this. I really enjoyed this book, I like the author's writing style.