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Friends & Relations #1
Happier in her Friends than Relations: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
**Second Edition, Revised Spring 2019**In this angsty fusion of two of Jane Austen’s most beloved novels, Pride & Prejudice and Sense & Sensibility, the actions of their sisters cause challenging chain reactions for one of literature’s most celebrated couples....Fitzwilliam Darcy is faced with a family crisis of epic proportions after the fallout of his sister Georgiana’s ill-fated elopement in Ramsgate, while his friend Charles Bingley is persuaded to abandon his scheme of renting Netherfield Park.Elizabeth Bennet journeys to London to recover her spirits after Jane’s unexpected marriage changes the sisters’ relationship forever, and despite an attempted reconciliation, Jane is revealed to be far from the angel Elizabeth has always admired.The bonds of friendship offer Elizabeth a lifeline after a series of tragic events causes her to fear for her future. The support she receives from her new neighbor Marianne Brandon, and snarky socialite Lady Rebecca Fitzwilliam, may yet prove to heal her broken heart and bring her closer to a happily ever after. The wide array of characters from throughout Austen’s works teach Elizabeth Bennet that she is truly happier in her friends than relations.AUTHOR'S note that this volume has been heavily edited and revised since original publication, based on suggestions from previous reviewers.This is Book 1 out of a 3-book series. Most storylines will be resolved by the conclusion of this story, but minor characters' stories will be left not fully resolved, for continuation in Book 2 and Book 3, to be released later in 2019. The Friends & Relations Series is an epic saga that peers into the lives of all of Jane's Austen's heroines, imagining them to inhabit a world where their lives and families are intertwined. Throughout this series, characters from all of Jane Austen's major works will be revealed to have existing familial relationships, and will forge new connections as well. As the lives of so many beloved Austen characters weave together, this series will address the question of what if all of Austen's works had taken place in the same world... a world where overlap was possible and surprises hide around every corner....
525 pages, Paperback
Published December 24, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
February 7, 2019
This is quite the P&P epic, so don't embark on reading it unless you're ready to invest a lot of time and willing to keep track of a lot of different storylines and characters. Although it's primarily a P&P/Darcy and Elizabeth variation, representatives of Sense and Sensibility, Mansfield Park, Emma, and even Sanditon have significant roles here. Persuasion gets a little wink, as it's briefly mentioned that Caroline Bingley is close friends with Elizabeth Elliot and her father. (No Northanger Abbey.)
There are new characters, too, with Elizabeth's dearest friend and defender being Rebecca, the younger sister of the former Colonel Fitzwilliam (who is now the Viscount Lord Hartley after the death of his older brother). His younger brother Robert, a clergyman, also plays a surprising part in the story.
The book veers sharply away from canon right from the start. Bingley never leased Netherfield, so when Mr. Collins came to Longbourn there was no reason to divert his attention from Jane. She is actually content to marry Longbourn's heir in order to save her family and become the future mistress of her childhood home.
Even more shocking, this is NOT the sweet, agreeable Jane that Elizabeth believed her to be. Instead, she's a self-centered harpy who secretly holds her entire family in disdain, particularly her father and Elizabeth. Her belief that she is above all her sisters, especially Elizabeth, is the crux of the story. Whenever it seems Elizabeth is getting ahead of her, Jane gets jealous, wants to bring her down a peg, and eventually she wants revenge for imagined offenses against her.
Multiple other plotlines pop up. In fact, there are enough subplots for about three or four full-length books. Sometimes the connection to the primary story is only nebulous, but they're all highly entertaining.
Let's see...Mr. Bingley meets Elizabeth at a Twelfth Night ball in London, is immediately smitten, and starts calling on her at the Gardiners' Cheapside home regularly. Darcy meets her the same evening, but he's already married - but the marriage isn't what it seems. There's a change to the Georgiana-and-Wickham history, too. Netherfield is let by Edward and Elinor Ferrars, and the widowed Marianne Brandon, who lives with them, becomes another close friend to Elizabeth with issues of her own. There are lots of other stories-within-the-story, but many of these get into spoiler territory.
Dialogue is a major strength in the book. It sounds natural and perfectly matches the characters.
I do love the various characterizations. Rebecca Fitzwilliam is a pistol who's sometimes more like a loose cannon. All the scenes with Darcy and his Fitzwilliam cousins are fun. Evil Jane is such an intriguing twist. Bingley is amiable but flaky. His sister Caroline is full of nasty snark, and it's entertaining to read as she gets shot down by one of the protagonists every time. Lady Catherine is over-the-top, though the final arc of her story is a bit absurd. Wickham enters the story late, but his contribution to the tale is just inspired.
Considering how long and complicated this book is, I couldn't help getting irritated with sections where a character's thoughts are described at length. Some thoughts are obvious and some are repeated. This was originally posted on a fan fiction site. I'm not sure how much editing it went through before publication, but it wasn't enough. Could've used LOTS of pruning. And there are many little editing errors throughout.
The author is an excellent writer and her central plot and most of the subplots are well done. However, the book just isn't as good as it could be and at least twice as long as it should be.
There are new characters, too, with Elizabeth's dearest friend and defender being Rebecca, the younger sister of the former Colonel Fitzwilliam (who is now the Viscount Lord Hartley after the death of his older brother). His younger brother Robert, a clergyman, also plays a surprising part in the story.
The book veers sharply away from canon right from the start. Bingley never leased Netherfield, so when Mr. Collins came to Longbourn there was no reason to divert his attention from Jane. She is actually content to marry Longbourn's heir in order to save her family and become the future mistress of her childhood home.
Even more shocking, this is NOT the sweet, agreeable Jane that Elizabeth believed her to be. Instead, she's a self-centered harpy who secretly holds her entire family in disdain, particularly her father and Elizabeth. Her belief that she is above all her sisters, especially Elizabeth, is the crux of the story. Whenever it seems Elizabeth is getting ahead of her, Jane gets jealous, wants to bring her down a peg, and eventually she wants revenge for imagined offenses against her.
Multiple other plotlines pop up. In fact, there are enough subplots for about three or four full-length books. Sometimes the connection to the primary story is only nebulous, but they're all highly entertaining.
Let's see...Mr. Bingley meets Elizabeth at a Twelfth Night ball in London, is immediately smitten, and starts calling on her at the Gardiners' Cheapside home regularly. Darcy meets her the same evening, but he's already married - but the marriage isn't what it seems. There's a change to the Georgiana-and-Wickham history, too. Netherfield is let by Edward and Elinor Ferrars, and the widowed Marianne Brandon, who lives with them, becomes another close friend to Elizabeth with issues of her own. There are lots of other stories-within-the-story, but many of these get into spoiler territory.
Dialogue is a major strength in the book. It sounds natural and perfectly matches the characters.
I do love the various characterizations. Rebecca Fitzwilliam is a pistol who's sometimes more like a loose cannon. All the scenes with Darcy and his Fitzwilliam cousins are fun. Evil Jane is such an intriguing twist. Bingley is amiable but flaky. His sister Caroline is full of nasty snark, and it's entertaining to read as she gets shot down by one of the protagonists every time. Lady Catherine is over-the-top, though the final arc of her story is a bit absurd. Wickham enters the story late, but his contribution to the tale is just inspired.
Considering how long and complicated this book is, I couldn't help getting irritated with sections where a character's thoughts are described at length. Some thoughts are obvious and some are repeated. This was originally posted on a fan fiction site. I'm not sure how much editing it went through before publication, but it wasn't enough. Could've used LOTS of pruning. And there are many little editing errors throughout.
The author is an excellent writer and her central plot and most of the subplots are well done. However, the book just isn't as good as it could be and at least twice as long as it should be.
February 28, 2023
My Rating after the 2nd read: 5*
My quibbles on my first reading of this book several years ago are no longer an issue. It all made better sense the second time around! I loved it!
My Rating: 4.5* rounded up to 5*
"I will do what I must to save our family and secure our future, and all of you owe me a debt of gratitude, do you understand?" (quote from the book)
Oh, my! That basically is my erudite comment as I was reading this hefty tome.
What an enjoyable, complex compilation of ingenuity, characters and conversation. I don't think I can begin to summarize this way off canon saga without writing a saga of a review! Let's just say that Jane and Elizabeth Bennet have a falling out and Fitzwilliam Darcy has his own family issues that completely turns his life upside down. Oh, the delight I had of other characters either appearing or mentioned from 'Sense & Sensibility', 'Sandition', 'Mansfield Park', 'Persuasion', and 'Emma' and how they all slowly intertwine. I strongly encourage you to read it yourself to find out why, and how the consequences from all these trials and tribulations effect all Jane Austen's characters that we love and love-to-hate so well.
"It is strange, is it not, the more you love someone, the more power you give them to wound you. Perhaps the very nature of love lends itself to disappointment, or at least, impossible expectations." (quote from the book)
What I loved:
1) The whole premise of throwing all of Jane's characters together.
2) The dialogue flowed and comments made by certain characters in canon are used by others...so well done.
3) The new original character created, 'Lady Rebecca Fitzwilliam'. She is a firecracker of the first order and no one is left standing if you cross her.
"Now tell me, what in God's name are you wearing, and when can we set it on fire?" (quote from the book)
4) The angst and tension that builds throughout.
5) The interesting pairings that have been made and the development and outcomes for some of the characters.
6) I do so love a big long saga!
Now you wonder, what I didn't love. Well, I had a few minor quibbles, but they didn't take away from my overall enjoyment of this first novel. The one that stands out the most has to do with Elizabeth back at Longbourn after her visit to Kent. I just felt the way she acted was too much of a stretch for me. I wont say what it was, as it would be a 'spoiler', in my opinion. The other was more of a surprise and a bit of a stretch (Lady Catherine), but I wasn't disappointed in the overall scheme of things. Others have mentioned the errors, but I purchased the 2nd Edition of this book and they didn't appear to be overwhelming though there were still some that jumped out at me.
Bravo Ms. Bamber on your debut novel! I am looking forward to reading "Unexpected Friends and Relations (A Jane Austen Crossover) Book 2"!
May 9, 2024
Most of the story is overpowered in my mind by the Evil Jane! Oh my word!
For that alone this was worth reading. Such a fresh concept.
It is a complex story with some small stories together with the main romance of ODC, using several of Jane Austen's books.
There are already great reviews, so i will only add mine re the audiobook. It was very well done, entertainingly narrated and enjoyable to listen to.
For that alone this was worth reading. Such a fresh concept.
It is a complex story with some small stories together with the main romance of ODC, using several of Jane Austen's books.
There are already great reviews, so i will only add mine re the audiobook. It was very well done, entertainingly narrated and enjoyable to listen to.
October 21, 2025
There’s an awful lot of blood around that water is thicker than. ~ Mignon McLaughlin
Elizabeth Bennet believed her sister Jane was her closest friend … until, that is, Jane accepted a proposal from the odious Mr. Collins.
Elizabeth begged Jane to reconsider. No consideration would come from Jane who verbally abused Elizabeth. Their friendship was finished.
Family quarrels are bitter things. They don’t go by any rules. They’re not like aches or wounds; they’re more like splits in the skin that won’t heal because there’s not enough material. ~ F. Scott Fitzgerald
After the wedding, Elizabeth resides temporarily with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. In London, she attends a ball and meets Charles Bingley and Fitzwilliam Darcy. Both men are intrigued with her. Bingley actively begins pursuing her.
Darcy’s life doesn’t allow him to show any interest. He has married his cousin Anne, seeking a solution to Georgiana’s situation. He returns to his family at Pemberley.
Through her acquaintance with Bingley, Elizabeth meets the former Colonel Fitzwilliam (now the Viscount) and his sister Lady Rebecca. Rebecca immediately becomes a close friend.
Friends are God’s apology for relations. ~ Hugh Kingsmill
Characters from Sense and Sensibility have major roles in the book. Marianne Brandon becomes another close friend to Elizabeth. I loved Mrs. Jennings’ part in the book – and her relationship to Lady Catherine.
The author makes a nod to several of Austen’s books. We also meet (some only slightly):
The Parker family from Sanditon
Miss Elliot and her father from Persuasion
Mrs. Grant, Mr. & Mrs. Crawford, Miss Crawford and Edmund Bertram from Mansfield Park
Mr. Elton, George and John Knightley, the Woodhouse sisters, Frank Churchill and Robert Martin & family from Emma
I read this originally as it posted WIP at a fan fiction site. When I began the published edition, I had thought to just skim through to remember details before writing a review. I found, instead, that I was as caught up in the story the second time as during the original.
This is a long, complex tale with a Happy Ending for all the characters who deserve one. Some story lines are unresolved. The author intends to begin posting a sequel. I, for one, will be watching for it.
Friends are relatives you make for yourself. ~ Eustache Deschamps
Elizabeth Bennet believed her sister Jane was her closest friend … until, that is, Jane accepted a proposal from the odious Mr. Collins.
Elizabeth begged Jane to reconsider. No consideration would come from Jane who verbally abused Elizabeth. Their friendship was finished.
Family quarrels are bitter things. They don’t go by any rules. They’re not like aches or wounds; they’re more like splits in the skin that won’t heal because there’s not enough material. ~ F. Scott Fitzgerald
After the wedding, Elizabeth resides temporarily with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. In London, she attends a ball and meets Charles Bingley and Fitzwilliam Darcy. Both men are intrigued with her. Bingley actively begins pursuing her.
Darcy’s life doesn’t allow him to show any interest. He has married his cousin Anne, seeking a solution to Georgiana’s situation. He returns to his family at Pemberley.
Through her acquaintance with Bingley, Elizabeth meets the former Colonel Fitzwilliam (now the Viscount) and his sister Lady Rebecca. Rebecca immediately becomes a close friend.
Friends are God’s apology for relations. ~ Hugh Kingsmill
Characters from Sense and Sensibility have major roles in the book. Marianne Brandon becomes another close friend to Elizabeth. I loved Mrs. Jennings’ part in the book – and her relationship to Lady Catherine.
The author makes a nod to several of Austen’s books. We also meet (some only slightly):
The Parker family from Sanditon
Miss Elliot and her father from Persuasion
Mrs. Grant, Mr. & Mrs. Crawford, Miss Crawford and Edmund Bertram from Mansfield Park
Mr. Elton, George and John Knightley, the Woodhouse sisters, Frank Churchill and Robert Martin & family from Emma
I read this originally as it posted WIP at a fan fiction site. When I began the published edition, I had thought to just skim through to remember details before writing a review. I found, instead, that I was as caught up in the story the second time as during the original.
This is a long, complex tale with a Happy Ending for all the characters who deserve one. Some story lines are unresolved. The author intends to begin posting a sequel. I, for one, will be watching for it.
Friends are relatives you make for yourself. ~ Eustache Deschamps
February 8, 2019
With almost 600 pages this is a long read and drags at times, mostly towards the end. It also needs some proofreading! It is more a story of several families than just one but as the stories intertwine and families also intermarry you need to keep track of just who is who. You may also find yourself smiling as names from all of Jane Austen's published and one unfinished novel pop up (except for Northanger Abbey). The author does have a different marriage for Fanny Price so be aware of that. Marianne Brandon nee Dashwood is a widow and has moved into Netherfield along with Elinor and Edward Ferrars. So Bingley does not show up as a marriage prospect for Jane, obviously...(at least not at the beginning of this tale).
Jane is completely opposite in her character and the story begins with her accepting Mr. Collins' proposal. Her relationship with Elizabeth is hateful, mean and spiteful. Anything she can do or say to put E. down or to attempt to push her into relationships or situations which are uncomfortable or degrading is how she acts.
Darcy's family situation is dire at the beginning. He marries his cousin, Anne, to protect Georgiana. He does meet Elizabeth while at a ball to which he was dragged while in London. Elizabeth is there as a cousin, Emily, (related through Aunt Gardiner) has brought her along. Charles Bingley is strongly attracted to Elizabeth but, again, his sister manipulates him and drags him off and thus Elizabeth realizes that any marriage with him would include a third party - his sister.
While in London Elizabeth has also meet Rebecca Fitzwilliam, sister to Robert and Richard. The oldest brother is deceased and thus Richard is in line to inherit the title. Those three play a significant part in this story. Rebecca is a matchmaker along with Mrs. Jennings (S&S) who is often at odds with another relative, Lady Catherine. Lady Catherine is another character who undergoes a transformation in this story...but only after some part played in Mr. Collins' demise.
There is just too much going on to mention it all here but it was interesting and kept my attention for the most part. This is the second time I am reading this as I read it last year as an unpublished novel on AHA and could not post a review at that time.
I would have liked an epilogue especially as there is a question about Marianne Brandon's ability to procreate and I always like to read of ODC's offspring. The future for Georgiana was left unresolved and as events in her life played such an important part in this story I thought we should know if she ever married or moved away from Pemberley.
Jane is completely opposite in her character and the story begins with her accepting Mr. Collins' proposal. Her relationship with Elizabeth is hateful, mean and spiteful. Anything she can do or say to put E. down or to attempt to push her into relationships or situations which are uncomfortable or degrading is how she acts.
Darcy's family situation is dire at the beginning. He marries his cousin, Anne, to protect Georgiana. He does meet Elizabeth while at a ball to which he was dragged while in London. Elizabeth is there as a cousin, Emily, (related through Aunt Gardiner) has brought her along. Charles Bingley is strongly attracted to Elizabeth but, again, his sister manipulates him and drags him off and thus Elizabeth realizes that any marriage with him would include a third party - his sister.
While in London Elizabeth has also meet Rebecca Fitzwilliam, sister to Robert and Richard. The oldest brother is deceased and thus Richard is in line to inherit the title. Those three play a significant part in this story. Rebecca is a matchmaker along with Mrs. Jennings (S&S) who is often at odds with another relative, Lady Catherine. Lady Catherine is another character who undergoes a transformation in this story...but only after some part played in Mr. Collins' demise.
There is just too much going on to mention it all here but it was interesting and kept my attention for the most part. This is the second time I am reading this as I read it last year as an unpublished novel on AHA and could not post a review at that time.
I would have liked an epilogue especially as there is a question about Marianne Brandon's ability to procreate and I always like to read of ODC's offspring. The future for Georgiana was left unresolved and as events in her life played such an important part in this story I thought we should know if she ever married or moved away from Pemberley.
November 21, 2019
Bad Jane and bad Bingley
Long novel. The worse Jane I’ve read about in a long time but how she turns bad seems delightfully possible. Her father doesn’t think much of her and her mother has chased potential matches away, accidentally, for years.
From that start an epic story unfolds. Characters from P&P AND Sense and Sensibility merged together in a logical way. Quite the romp. I enjoyed the story completely.
I recommend this book highly.
Long novel. The worse Jane I’ve read about in a long time but how she turns bad seems delightfully possible. Her father doesn’t think much of her and her mother has chased potential matches away, accidentally, for years.
From that start an epic story unfolds. Characters from P&P AND Sense and Sensibility merged together in a logical way. Quite the romp. I enjoyed the story completely.
I recommend this book highly.
May 29, 2022
One of my favorite Jane's ever.
Reread: Great Jane!
Reread: Great Jane!
January 9, 2019
Author Jayne Bamber’s debut is true Jane Austen fan fiction—tweaking scenes and characters to create a new twist on a timeless classic. Never had I imagined calm, sweet, honest Jane Bennet as depicted here. But I suppose sacrificing oneself for the good of the family and marrying the toady Mr Collins might make one a tad bitter. If you can accept that major change and the inevitable chasm between beloved sisters Jane & Elizabeth than you will enjoy this novel indeed. Bamber courageously manipulates her plot and has flashes of brilliance. I think the copy could have been tighter for flow and some of the characterizations not quite so “black or white” but the author has much potential for the rest in the series.
January 28, 2019
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, Jane is somewhat evil. I wanted to type something else but that will do. Elizabeth learns after Jane accepts Mr. Collins that kind Jane was a "show" and that she should learn her place. In an attempt to find her place in the world, she visits London to stay with her aunt and uncle and has the pleasure to meet all kinds of people - Bingley, Darcy and the Fitzwilliam family. Elizabeth must learn what she wants from life, who her true friends are and how to trust and how to love. The whole crew must lean on each other to find their happily ever afters.
The author also does an interesting job of adding in many of Jane Austen's other characters.
The author also does an interesting job of adding in many of Jane Austen's other characters.
January 16, 2019
Not sure why this was not listed as read because I read it in 2018. Probably around August and absolutely loved this story. Really hated Jane and Bingley was a puppy.
Definitely worth reading!
Definitely worth reading!
January 24, 2019
When I was about 30% of the way through this book I couldn't put it down. If I'd reviewed it at that point, I would have given it 4 star in spite of the typos and grammar issues. But by the time I was 60% of the way through, I just wanted it to be over. I had a very hard time even finishing it. This book has way too many characters and subplots. There are characters from literally every Jane Austen novel, and for the most part, they are just shoehorned into the the narrative.
June 24, 2023
Great Book
I loved it had to read it twice. I love these bad evil Jane books. Good plot and I loved the cliffhanger ending. On to book two.
I loved it had to read it twice. I love these bad evil Jane books. Good plot and I loved the cliffhanger ending. On to book two.
January 10, 2019
Amazing
I loved how the story took us through so many twists and turns and left us wanting more. I am eagerly awaiting the next chapter of this story
I loved how the story took us through so many twists and turns and left us wanting more. I am eagerly awaiting the next chapter of this story
April 10, 2019
Still needs much editing...
A few typos don’t really bother me. In an age of spellcheck and autocorrect those are bound to happen. What this needs however is another thorough editing by a person who knows how to delete pages of plot (for example at least 3 of the balls) and numbers of unnecessary characters. It is a very bad sign when one of the of the characters must chart most of the other characters (i.e. ‘cousins’) for another character—and for the reader.
A few typos don’t really bother me. In an age of spellcheck and autocorrect those are bound to happen. What this needs however is another thorough editing by a person who knows how to delete pages of plot (for example at least 3 of the balls) and numbers of unnecessary characters. It is a very bad sign when one of the of the characters must chart most of the other characters (i.e. ‘cousins’) for another character—and for the reader.
September 12, 2020
2.5 stars.
Not my cup of tea, I guess. I don't like Jane being so evil. But it is entertaining. Just be ready for a variation that could almost be another story altogether.
Not my cup of tea, I guess. I don't like Jane being so evil. But it is entertaining. Just be ready for a variation that could almost be another story altogether.
January 10, 2019
Good Read
Very interesting read, with characters from Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Sanditon, and Emma appearing in various places throughout the novel, it is a good story with a bad Jane setting all sorts of things awry. There is more than one happy ending to this book. I would have lived an epilogue to see how some of the characters fared but will just have to imagine them.
Very interesting read, with characters from Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Sanditon, and Emma appearing in various places throughout the novel, it is a good story with a bad Jane setting all sorts of things awry. There is more than one happy ending to this book. I would have lived an epilogue to see how some of the characters fared but will just have to imagine them.
May 11, 2019
Should have been shorter
This is such a long story, with a lot crammed into it. The attempt by the author to incorporate characters from every Austen novel into a P&P variation is a cute idea and is cleverly done, but overall overpopulates the tale without adding anything of substance to the events. And, of course, you need to have read all of those Austen novels or all those additional names won't mean anything.
This is an "evil Jane" variation , and doesn't skimp on the villainy. Her change is sudden and complete, and is so over-the-top horrible that it's unbelievable she could ever have been sweet, gentle Jane. How could such a poisonous attitude have festered so long with no outward evidence until her early twenties? The eventual resolution of the Jane problem is not very satisfying, since she more or less gets something she wanted, and could conceivably still create scandal for her family at some future date.
The word "blockhead" is used several times throughout the book to describe the behavior of certain people, and I was in full agreement. Just when I think the story is convincing and well written, one of the main characters does something really stupid. Darcy, Elizabeth, Bingley, Mr. Gardiner and other, all have their blockhead moments. Most of the book is well written, but there are more than a few of these disappointments that make us shake our heads in disbelief.
I enjoyed the book for the most part, but I recommend it with reservations.
This is such a long story, with a lot crammed into it. The attempt by the author to incorporate characters from every Austen novel into a P&P variation is a cute idea and is cleverly done, but overall overpopulates the tale without adding anything of substance to the events. And, of course, you need to have read all of those Austen novels or all those additional names won't mean anything.
This is an "evil Jane" variation , and doesn't skimp on the villainy. Her change is sudden and complete, and is so over-the-top horrible that it's unbelievable she could ever have been sweet, gentle Jane. How could such a poisonous attitude have festered so long with no outward evidence until her early twenties? The eventual resolution of the Jane problem is not very satisfying, since she more or less gets something she wanted, and could conceivably still create scandal for her family at some future date.
The word "blockhead" is used several times throughout the book to describe the behavior of certain people, and I was in full agreement. Just when I think the story is convincing and well written, one of the main characters does something really stupid. Darcy, Elizabeth, Bingley, Mr. Gardiner and other, all have their blockhead moments. Most of the book is well written, but there are more than a few of these disappointments that make us shake our heads in disbelief.
I enjoyed the book for the most part, but I recommend it with reservations.
February 24, 2019
In this P&P variation (plus characters from nearly all the other Jane Austen's books) Jane Bennet does what every sensible young lady should do when faced with an offer of marriage from the heir to the family estate. She says yes to Mr. Collins. Elizaeth lacking understanding, in a temper falls out with Jane, and in a huff goes and stays with the Gardiners. So she forgets her family for the 'better' option.
But Jane is not the agreeable Jane of canon as she threatened never to house Elizabeth at Longbourn, and her character does not improve with the story.
Various characters features on the journey of Darcy and Elizabeth to their happy ending. I only hope that Lady Catherine is told the truth in the next installment.
Overall an enjoyable very long well-written story with several different plots.
But Jane is not the agreeable Jane of canon as she threatened never to house Elizabeth at Longbourn, and her character does not improve with the story.
Various characters features on the journey of Darcy and Elizabeth to their happy ending. I only hope that Lady Catherine is told the truth in the next installment.
Overall an enjoyable very long well-written story with several different plots.
April 26, 2022
Pardon my language but fucccccck this is a long read. This is such a long read that I downloaded the audiobook with the last of my Audible credits to get me through the slower bits. Right out of the gate, we're completely off canon with Jane marrying Mr. Collins and revealing the most delicious "Evil Jane" of any "Evil Jane" trope I've ever read.
I've read this one several times and listened to it twice. I truly wish that the audio version was done better. Chapter 6 is completely fucked up, the narrator stops and starts way too many times. The narrator reads at different rates - speeding up as the chapters go on, almost like the book is too long for her.
Could this one use a good edit? Yes - we get the HEA for ODC but the story keeps going on, weaving in so many more characters from the whole JA Universe. But I still love it - even though it took me a week to get through it.
I've read this one several times and listened to it twice. I truly wish that the audio version was done better. Chapter 6 is completely fucked up, the narrator stops and starts way too many times. The narrator reads at different rates - speeding up as the chapters go on, almost like the book is too long for her.
Could this one use a good edit? Yes - we get the HEA for ODC but the story keeps going on, weaving in so many more characters from the whole JA Universe. But I still love it - even though it took me a week to get through it.
August 30, 2020
Too many characters?
And not at all as we know and love them. How anyone can change pure, sweet, innocent Jane into a certifiable vindictive witch is beyond me. Just seems to be done for the authors convenience, as is much of Rebecca's personality. Seems like almost every character from Austen's books was included, but, hmmm, unless I missed something (entirely possible) not Persuasion nor Northanger Abbey? Or was there a mention of a Mr (Sir?) Elliot somewhere? Hard to remember. No Lady Susan, either, though she would have fit right in. Does it take more or less creativity to write a book borrowing from many others?
And not at all as we know and love them. How anyone can change pure, sweet, innocent Jane into a certifiable vindictive witch is beyond me. Just seems to be done for the authors convenience, as is much of Rebecca's personality. Seems like almost every character from Austen's books was included, but, hmmm, unless I missed something (entirely possible) not Persuasion nor Northanger Abbey? Or was there a mention of a Mr (Sir?) Elliot somewhere? Hard to remember. No Lady Susan, either, though she would have fit right in. Does it take more or less creativity to write a book borrowing from many others?
February 5, 2019
3 1/2 stars. This book was HILARIOUS and would have gotten 4 stars from me except some of the story line was crude and a couple scenes while not graphic were insinuations of crudeness.
It felt like this FanFic was this shrine of let’s weave all Jane Austen’s books and characters together and then one character commented it seemed like everyone was related somehow 😂👌
I hope this author writes more.
Ugh too many spoilers to say what I thought was clever or hilariously done!!
This is available on kindle unlimited.
It felt like this FanFic was this shrine of let’s weave all Jane Austen’s books and characters together and then one character commented it seemed like everyone was related somehow 😂👌
I hope this author writes more.
Ugh too many spoilers to say what I thought was clever or hilariously done!!
This is available on kindle unlimited.
March 11, 2019
Although this book had numerous proofing errors, it was an excellent variation, combining characters from several Jane Austen tales. It was a rather lengthy tale, but had so many twists and character variations, that I found it fresh and entertaining!
Great tale!
Great tale!
February 21, 2019
A Good Story, oh but all the typos!!!!
A good story for this new author, but the typos happen so often throughout the book that it certainly slowed me down at times deciphering what the writer was trying to say. Please get more help proofing your work; so many repeated words often before and after key words. I might have given this 5 stars but for so much confusion in the phrasing.
A good story for this new author, but the typos happen so often throughout the book that it certainly slowed me down at times deciphering what the writer was trying to say. Please get more help proofing your work; so many repeated words often before and after key words. I might have given this 5 stars but for so much confusion in the phrasing.
February 9, 2019
Marriage and variation
The book was a beautiful marriage of Austen literature while offering a fun but not offensive variation of characters and character personalities.
The only loss of a star was the abominable editing. Repeating of words and phrases along with stray letters and words caused the flow of the journey to be a little bumpy.
The book was a beautiful marriage of Austen literature while offering a fun but not offensive variation of characters and character personalities.
The only loss of a star was the abominable editing. Repeating of words and phrases along with stray letters and words caused the flow of the journey to be a little bumpy.
January 19, 2019
Worthy of Joan Collins.
The book is paced so that each series of events leads to a somewhat cataclysmic showdown worthy of an 80’s Primetime soap opera like Dallas or Dynasty. There are perhaps ten such events in this very long and rather tedious work. Other reviews will tell you about how virtually every character that Austen ever wrote is featured, but the events play like a farce or a melodrama rather than a work of fiction that is within the realm of events that might actually happen. My favorite farcical extravaganza, almost worthy of the funeral scene in the movie “Heathers” (“I love my dead gay son!”), has Georgiana confessing that she is the mother of Fitzwilliam Darcy’s child from his first marriage to a ballroom full of people who are in some way all related to her (well, ok, I’m exaggerating- it actually happens in a drawing room where the man previously known as Colonel Fitzwilliam is making out on the sofa with a drunken Marianne Brandon neé Dashwood while the ball is taking place. To be fair to the amorously occupied couple and not to damage their reputations, they are recently engaged.)
Happily for the “sweet tea” readers, the book is rated PG-13 and, as I’ve mentioned, very family oriented. Few problems with spelling. Enjoy!
The book is paced so that each series of events leads to a somewhat cataclysmic showdown worthy of an 80’s Primetime soap opera like Dallas or Dynasty. There are perhaps ten such events in this very long and rather tedious work. Other reviews will tell you about how virtually every character that Austen ever wrote is featured, but the events play like a farce or a melodrama rather than a work of fiction that is within the realm of events that might actually happen. My favorite farcical extravaganza, almost worthy of the funeral scene in the movie “Heathers” (“I love my dead gay son!”), has Georgiana confessing that she is the mother of Fitzwilliam Darcy’s child from his first marriage to a ballroom full of people who are in some way all related to her (well, ok, I’m exaggerating- it actually happens in a drawing room where the man previously known as Colonel Fitzwilliam is making out on the sofa with a drunken Marianne Brandon neé Dashwood while the ball is taking place. To be fair to the amorously occupied couple and not to damage their reputations, they are recently engaged.)
Happily for the “sweet tea” readers, the book is rated PG-13 and, as I’ve mentioned, very family oriented. Few problems with spelling. Enjoy!
January 20, 2020
One of my favorite stories of a “bad Jane”
This is not a typical retelling of P&P that appeals to me. Over the years the basic retelling has been boring. This premise is Jane is different due to her disappointments and choices make for a miserable life. Elizabeth is disappointed with Jane choices and voices her concerns which leads to a disagreement that continues when Jane sees how well Elizabeth is doing with her friends. This story adds other characters from Sense and Sensibility as a bonus.
Darcy did not save Georgiana in time and the consequences change the direction of his life with having to marry his cousin Anne to cover for a baby. Anne knows she is dying and wants freedom from her mother before she dies which creates more drama after she passes. Lady Catherine causes more havoc which only brings Darcy and Lizzy closer.
There is a lot going on with the various characters, however the story makes you want to keep reading to find out what happens.
This is not a typical retelling of P&P that appeals to me. Over the years the basic retelling has been boring. This premise is Jane is different due to her disappointments and choices make for a miserable life. Elizabeth is disappointed with Jane choices and voices her concerns which leads to a disagreement that continues when Jane sees how well Elizabeth is doing with her friends. This story adds other characters from Sense and Sensibility as a bonus.
Darcy did not save Georgiana in time and the consequences change the direction of his life with having to marry his cousin Anne to cover for a baby. Anne knows she is dying and wants freedom from her mother before she dies which creates more drama after she passes. Lady Catherine causes more havoc which only brings Darcy and Lizzy closer.
There is a lot going on with the various characters, however the story makes you want to keep reading to find out what happens.
October 3, 2025
I loved it!
Warning: Meant for mature audiences. Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is Book 1 of the series called Friends and Relations Please note that this volume has been heavily edited and revised since original publication, based on suggestions from previous reviewers.
Most storylines will be resolved by the conclusion of this story, but minor characters' stories will be left not fully resolved, for continuation in Book 2. Reading this book before Book 2 is highly recommended. In this angsty fusion of two of Jane Austen’s most beloved novels, Pride & Prejudice and Sense & Sensibility, the actions of their sisters cause challenging chain reactions for one of literature’s most celebrated couples.
This series is an epic saga that peers into the lives of all of Jane's Austen's heroines, imagining them to inhabit a world where their lives and families are intertwined. Throughout this series, characters from all of Jane Austen's major works will be revealed to have existing familial relationships, and will forge new connections as well. As the lives of so many beloved Austen characters weave together, this series will address the question of what if all of Austen's works had taken place in the same world, a world where overlap was possible and surprises hide around every corner.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is faced with a family crisis of epic proportions after the fallout of his sister Georgiana’s ill-fated elopement in Ramsgate, while his friend Charles Bingley is persuaded to abandon his scheme of renting Netherfield Park. Elizabeth Bennet journeys to London to recover her spirits after Jane’s unexpected marriage changes the sisters’ relationship forever, and despite an attempted reconciliation, Jane is revealed to be far from the angel Elizabeth has always admired.
The bonds of friendship offer Elizabeth a lifeline after a series of tragic events causes her to fear for her future. The support she receives from her new neighbor Marianne Brandon, and snarky socialite Lady Rebecca Fitzwilliam, may yet prove to heal her broken heart and bring her closer to a happily ever after. The wide array of characters from throughout Austen’s works teach Elizabeth Bennet that she is truly happier in her friends than relations. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
Warning: Meant for mature audiences. Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is Book 1 of the series called Friends and Relations Please note that this volume has been heavily edited and revised since original publication, based on suggestions from previous reviewers.
Most storylines will be resolved by the conclusion of this story, but minor characters' stories will be left not fully resolved, for continuation in Book 2. Reading this book before Book 2 is highly recommended. In this angsty fusion of two of Jane Austen’s most beloved novels, Pride & Prejudice and Sense & Sensibility, the actions of their sisters cause challenging chain reactions for one of literature’s most celebrated couples.
This series is an epic saga that peers into the lives of all of Jane's Austen's heroines, imagining them to inhabit a world where their lives and families are intertwined. Throughout this series, characters from all of Jane Austen's major works will be revealed to have existing familial relationships, and will forge new connections as well. As the lives of so many beloved Austen characters weave together, this series will address the question of what if all of Austen's works had taken place in the same world, a world where overlap was possible and surprises hide around every corner.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is faced with a family crisis of epic proportions after the fallout of his sister Georgiana’s ill-fated elopement in Ramsgate, while his friend Charles Bingley is persuaded to abandon his scheme of renting Netherfield Park. Elizabeth Bennet journeys to London to recover her spirits after Jane’s unexpected marriage changes the sisters’ relationship forever, and despite an attempted reconciliation, Jane is revealed to be far from the angel Elizabeth has always admired.
The bonds of friendship offer Elizabeth a lifeline after a series of tragic events causes her to fear for her future. The support she receives from her new neighbor Marianne Brandon, and snarky socialite Lady Rebecca Fitzwilliam, may yet prove to heal her broken heart and bring her closer to a happily ever after. The wide array of characters from throughout Austen’s works teach Elizabeth Bennet that she is truly happier in her friends than relations. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
April 5, 2019
I did hear about this book when it was first released but I never did get around to reviewing it. Little did I know that I would be getting myself into when I started it. This novel was addicting and if I didn't have to go to work I would have finished it a lot sooner. Don't start this epic-length story if you don't have the time to devote to it.
So I'm gonna say that I hated Jane in this story. She made the decision herself to marry Mr. Collins and then had the gall to get jealous of Lizzy and then tried to ruin Lizzy's life. I'm sorry I outright hated Jane and that little plot she tried to hatch at the end of the book made me glad when she finally disappeared out of everyone's lives.
Bingley was just a weak and spiteful blockhead and I was happy when Lizzy decided that she didn't want anything to do with him. Who would want a man that is easily led by his sister and who can let a pretty face turn their head from the lady they are courting? Another character who pissed me off was Wickham. What he did to Georgiana and then the Bennet ladies makes him truly despicable. I would have actually loved to see him hanged. That vague reference we get to him possibly being hanged for his crimes was not enough. I wanted to read it. Lol excuse me I'm a bit bloodthirsty.
I loved all the mingling from all the Jane Austen novels and to be honest I want more. I hate that Marianne lost Colonel Brandon as I enjoyed seeing them together as a couple but Richard Fitzwilliam was a good second husband for her. Also Lady Rebecca I love her. I hope she gets her own love interest.
So the elephant in the room is Darcy and Lizzy. They actually meet when he is still married to Anne (their marriage is one of convenience to protect Georgiana). Both are instantly drawn to each other but obviously they can't be together. I was delighted when Anne died because then They could be together. But both of those knuckleheads screwed up at Hunsford and they are separated until our dear Marianne talks some damn sense into Lizzy. Then they marry so quickly. Oh, this isn't even the best part of the book. The thing I found the most enjoyable was that Lady Catherine finds out that Anne hated her, she accidentally kills Mr. Collins, takes Kitty under her wings and gets a lover. This mellows the hell out of her. I actually liked her after all this happens.
This novel is addicting and a page-turner. I definitely recommend taking this ride if you haven't you won't be disappointed. I can't wait for book two be released in the near future.
Rating: 4½ stars out of 5
*The author provided me with a copy of this novel. All opinions are my own.
So I'm gonna say that I hated Jane in this story. She made the decision herself to marry Mr. Collins and then had the gall to get jealous of Lizzy and then tried to ruin Lizzy's life. I'm sorry I outright hated Jane and that little plot she tried to hatch at the end of the book made me glad when she finally disappeared out of everyone's lives.
Bingley was just a weak and spiteful blockhead and I was happy when Lizzy decided that she didn't want anything to do with him. Who would want a man that is easily led by his sister and who can let a pretty face turn their head from the lady they are courting? Another character who pissed me off was Wickham. What he did to Georgiana and then the Bennet ladies makes him truly despicable. I would have actually loved to see him hanged. That vague reference we get to him possibly being hanged for his crimes was not enough. I wanted to read it. Lol excuse me I'm a bit bloodthirsty.
I loved all the mingling from all the Jane Austen novels and to be honest I want more. I hate that Marianne lost Colonel Brandon as I enjoyed seeing them together as a couple but Richard Fitzwilliam was a good second husband for her. Also Lady Rebecca I love her. I hope she gets her own love interest.
So the elephant in the room is Darcy and Lizzy. They actually meet when he is still married to Anne (their marriage is one of convenience to protect Georgiana). Both are instantly drawn to each other but obviously they can't be together. I was delighted when Anne died because then They could be together. But both of those knuckleheads screwed up at Hunsford and they are separated until our dear Marianne talks some damn sense into Lizzy. Then they marry so quickly. Oh, this isn't even the best part of the book. The thing I found the most enjoyable was that Lady Catherine finds out that Anne hated her, she accidentally kills Mr. Collins, takes Kitty under her wings and gets a lover. This mellows the hell out of her. I actually liked her after all this happens.
This novel is addicting and a page-turner. I definitely recommend taking this ride if you haven't you won't be disappointed. I can't wait for book two be released in the near future.
Rating: 4½ stars out of 5
*The author provided me with a copy of this novel. All opinions are my own.
February 5, 2019
A bit of an epic, with intertwined Austen worlds. Sometimes this is interesting (I particularly liked the inclusion of Marianne Brandon), sometimes this is boring (there are too many irrelevant characters and subplots to distract from the main plot).
Enjoyed evilJane, though she did take quite a dramatic turn after marriage. Loved Lady Rebecca and the Fitzwilliams in general were great characters. Mary in particular, but also Kitty and Lydia were well written and had a nice depth, I would read more of their stories. Some of the characters were a bit too black and white; Bingley, eg., was unbelievable in his idiocy and singlemindedness.
Dialogue was great and very in-keeping. Some excellent lines. The introspective passages were a bit of a slog and quite often simply repeated what had just happened.
Tighter editing would have been useful. The length is unnecessary and works against the book. Parts are so boring that I ended up skimming over them, which lowered my enjoyment of the whole. If better edited this could definitely have been a 4+
***
One confusing detail has stuck out for me. Mr Collins is Mr Bennet’s nephew, for no apparent reason - he’s a distant cousin in the original & the change makes no difference to this book’s plot. All it does is leave us with an unexplained name change to Collins by Mr Bennet’s brother & a further unexplained family rift between said brothers. If anyone can give a reason/point out something I’ve missed here, I’d appreciate it!
Enjoyed evilJane, though she did take quite a dramatic turn after marriage. Loved Lady Rebecca and the Fitzwilliams in general were great characters. Mary in particular, but also Kitty and Lydia were well written and had a nice depth, I would read more of their stories. Some of the characters were a bit too black and white; Bingley, eg., was unbelievable in his idiocy and singlemindedness.
Dialogue was great and very in-keeping. Some excellent lines. The introspective passages were a bit of a slog and quite often simply repeated what had just happened.
Tighter editing would have been useful. The length is unnecessary and works against the book. Parts are so boring that I ended up skimming over them, which lowered my enjoyment of the whole. If better edited this could definitely have been a 4+
***
One confusing detail has stuck out for me. Mr Collins is Mr Bennet’s nephew, for no apparent reason - he’s a distant cousin in the original & the change makes no difference to this book’s plot. All it does is leave us with an unexplained name change to Collins by Mr Bennet’s brother & a further unexplained family rift between said brothers. If anyone can give a reason/point out something I’ve missed here, I’d appreciate it!
March 20, 2019
This is the best kind of Jane Austen Fan Fiction, that tweaks the original story lines with plausible what-if scenarios, but still remains true to Austen's voice and characters. Without revealing spoilers, several original characters experience an entirely realistic evolution. Some deceptively sweet characters become villains, some villains become more villainous, and others we come to sympathize with the humanity behind their cold exterior. The depth of emotions behind minor characters is revealed as well. It was a fascinating read. The dialogue was crisp and clever, but remained period-appropriate. The situations were amusing and maddening. More than once, I found myself cheering on our favorite heroes and heroines, as well as a prominent new character created for this book, who was both complex and delightful. Admittedly, this was a long book, and there were a lot of characters from multiple Austen novels to keep straight. It must have been a daunting undertaking for the author, but she did a great job maintaining their unique voices. She also paired up friends and love interests from different books in highly satisfactory ways. Overall, this was an entertaining read, and I look forward to the sequel!
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