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Sanctuary #1
Sanctuary: A Modern Pride and Prejudice Variation: Volume 1
“Do you ever wish you had a second chance to meet someone again for the first time?”
When Elizabeth Bennet left her Massachusetts hometown two years ago and settled on Great Diamond Island, off the rocky coast of Maine, all she wanted was a fresh start, somewhere to forget a past full of heartbreak and trauma—a place that would allow her to rediscover herself and what it felt like to be happy.
Will Darcy is ready to leave the family drama and noise of New York City behind. He moves to Great Diamond Island in an effort to build a better life for himself and his young son Jack, hoping it will provide a quiet place for them to heal from their grief after a tremendous loss.
Elizabeth meets Will within moments of his setting foot on the island, but the handsome newcomer’s offhanded dismissal of her is anything but a “meet cute.” But as the days pass, Will’s chance encounters with the bright-eyed, pretty young woman—and Jack’s insistence on befriending her—cause Will to see Elizabeth, and himself, in a different light.
But as they draw closer and take tentative steps toward something more than friendship, will they be able to step outside the shadows of their pasts?
◆◆◆
Sanctuary is a contemporary love story inspired by Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, but uses Austen’s characters only as a launching point; it is not a meticulous and faithful retelling of the original. It contains mature content and is intended for adult readers.
When Elizabeth Bennet left her Massachusetts hometown two years ago and settled on Great Diamond Island, off the rocky coast of Maine, all she wanted was a fresh start, somewhere to forget a past full of heartbreak and trauma—a place that would allow her to rediscover herself and what it felt like to be happy.
Will Darcy is ready to leave the family drama and noise of New York City behind. He moves to Great Diamond Island in an effort to build a better life for himself and his young son Jack, hoping it will provide a quiet place for them to heal from their grief after a tremendous loss.
Elizabeth meets Will within moments of his setting foot on the island, but the handsome newcomer’s offhanded dismissal of her is anything but a “meet cute.” But as the days pass, Will’s chance encounters with the bright-eyed, pretty young woman—and Jack’s insistence on befriending her—cause Will to see Elizabeth, and himself, in a different light.
But as they draw closer and take tentative steps toward something more than friendship, will they be able to step outside the shadows of their pasts?
◆◆◆
Sanctuary is a contemporary love story inspired by Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, but uses Austen’s characters only as a launching point; it is not a meticulous and faithful retelling of the original. It contains mature content and is intended for adult readers.
417 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 24, 2020
61 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
About the author
Cat Andrews
7 books50 followersCat Andrews has always been an avid reader, but didn’t discover Jane Austen until her love of a certain British actor led her to the BBC’s 1995 production of Pride and Prejudice. Her discovery of Jane Austen Fan Fiction opened up a whole new world, and she was inspired to begin a cautious but earnest foray into the world of writing.
In real life, Cat has spent thirty-eight years working in healthcare. She enjoys life on the shores of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and more often than not, you can find her at the beach with a book in her hand and her toes in the sand.
In real life, Cat has spent thirty-eight years working in healthcare. She enjoys life on the shores of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and more often than not, you can find her at the beach with a book in her hand and her toes in the sand.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 4, 2020
I enjoyed this in the first of three modern take-offs of P&P. As we are told in the author's blurb this tale does not much resemble canon. Not only is it a modern version but the events don't come close to reflecting even an outline of JA's canon.
Both Elizabeth and Darcy have been married: she is divorced from a emotionally/verbally Bill Collins and also separating herself from a man who acted as her savior from that but expected rewards that were not part of what Elizabeth saw as their relationship. Her family is not supportive and so she also wants to separate herself from regular contact with them. While she remains close to Jane, when she moves from the Boston area to Grand Diamond Island, off Portland, Maine (I had to check that out in an atlas.) she only enjoys visits, not regular contact.
Darcy is a widower, having lost his wife, Anne, due to a car accident. Their son is now 5 years old when he decides to leave NYC and finds himself buying a home on the same island. It is mainly because of his son, Jack, that he finds himself taking a second look at a woman he shrugged off when first meeting her. Elizabeth is a librarian in Portland and Jack enjoys attending Story Time there when she reads to the children. He also finds himself in her company due to the fact that they share the same realtor, a Mrs. Gardiner.
Much of the story in this first book relates activities during which Darcy, Jack and Elizabeth come together. They spend time on one beach and visit various sites of interest in Portland, as well as other events.
Darcy's sister, Georgie, is part of their family life and she visits and meets Elizabeth. We learn of the estrangement between Darcy and his father: how Darcy is fired and hired repeatedly as his father tries to force Darcy to do things his way.
We also read how Elizabeth's relationship with her ex-husband has created a fear of intimacy in relationships. Darcy is ever the sensitive lover and has not pushed things as the first book comes to an end.
There is much to learn about living on an island. Most shopping (even groceries) is done in Portland and delivered by ferry. No cars are allowed on the island so most people own a golf cart or walk. Cars are parked in Portland at a special garage with lower rates for islanders. Summers see an influx of visitors due to vacationers.
I am looking forward to reading the next book and recommend this story.
Both Elizabeth and Darcy have been married: she is divorced from a emotionally/verbally Bill Collins and also separating herself from a man who acted as her savior from that but expected rewards that were not part of what Elizabeth saw as their relationship. Her family is not supportive and so she also wants to separate herself from regular contact with them. While she remains close to Jane, when she moves from the Boston area to Grand Diamond Island, off Portland, Maine (I had to check that out in an atlas.) she only enjoys visits, not regular contact.
Darcy is a widower, having lost his wife, Anne, due to a car accident. Their son is now 5 years old when he decides to leave NYC and finds himself buying a home on the same island. It is mainly because of his son, Jack, that he finds himself taking a second look at a woman he shrugged off when first meeting her. Elizabeth is a librarian in Portland and Jack enjoys attending Story Time there when she reads to the children. He also finds himself in her company due to the fact that they share the same realtor, a Mrs. Gardiner.
Much of the story in this first book relates activities during which Darcy, Jack and Elizabeth come together. They spend time on one beach and visit various sites of interest in Portland, as well as other events.
Darcy's sister, Georgie, is part of their family life and she visits and meets Elizabeth. We learn of the estrangement between Darcy and his father: how Darcy is fired and hired repeatedly as his father tries to force Darcy to do things his way.
We also read how Elizabeth's relationship with her ex-husband has created a fear of intimacy in relationships. Darcy is ever the sensitive lover and has not pushed things as the first book comes to an end.
There is much to learn about living on an island. Most shopping (even groceries) is done in Portland and delivered by ferry. No cars are allowed on the island so most people own a golf cart or walk. Cars are parked in Portland at a special garage with lower rates for islanders. Summers see an influx of visitors due to vacationers.
I am looking forward to reading the next book and recommend this story.
April 3, 2021
Sanctuary: a place of refuge or safety
I tend to shy away from modern day stories of Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy. I like to escape the modern world not stay in it. However, in the past, I have read several modern stories that I have loved, so I took the plunge after seeing some wonderful reviews from trusted readers I know. I am so glad I did. I just finished the first volume of three and was blown away by it.
Elizabeth Bennet's life has spiraled out of control. When the unthinkable happens, she must find herself again. But to do so, she must gather her inner courage and start over, somewhere new.
"What do I do now?" (quote from the book)
Fitzwilliam Darcy's life has been struck by tragedy. He, too, must find a place that will help him heal and provide a level of normalcy for his young son, Jack. Somewhere outside the confines of his father's controlling ways.
"At the ripe old age of thirty, he was starting over." (quote from the book)
It is on Great Diamond Island off the coast of Portland, Maine, where their journeys converge. Where two 'wash-ashores' make first impressions, and one has to dig himself out of the hole he dug. I loved every minute of it!
"There was just something there, something in her eyes...something that drew him in." (quote from the book)
We have many familiar characters and some may be out of character or playing a different role. This added a unique spin to the story. One character had me thinking some choice words! But most of all, I loved being able to see the realistic growth and chemistry between Elizabeth and Will. And young Jack was just adorable.
"It feels like coming home." (quote from the book)
My emotions were engaged from the beginning...tears, laughter, anger. The story is poignant, hopeful and funny. The writing and dialogue came across so effortlessly to me. Maybe I am over simplifying, but it just flowed beautifully.
"That was more than a kiss. It had felt as though she was being consumed in a slow-burning fire, one that began as a small ember but steadily fanned to a bright blaze." (quote from the book)
I highly recommend the start of this three volume story. I even checked out Great Diamond Island and would love to stay there some day. I had been to Portland decades ago, so when life returns to some sort of normalcy again, I have a new place to visit!
September 10, 2020
This story takes the Pride and Prejudice characters/personalities and places them in modern day Maine. Elizabeth lives on a small island off the coast after pulling her life together after a tragic marriage situation. Darcy and his small son move to the island to find a change of scenery after his wife died. They find themselves drawn toward each other although each is fearful of dating/loving again.
January 23, 2021
A New Pride and Prejudice Contemporary Romance Saga!
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Modern Adaptation
NOTE: This is volume one in a three volume series. It will be necessary to read all three books to attain the story’s conclusion.
SETTING: Great Diamond Island, Maine Present-Day
SYNOPSIS: Will Darcy and his five-year-old son, Jack, are the newest residents of Great Diamond Island. An island off the coast of Maine that is picturesque, secluded, and allows only golf carts for residential transportation. It will be a new start and drastic change of pace for Will and Jack, who years ago experienced the trauma and sorrow of losing Jack’s mother. But Will is determined to embrace a better life with his son Jack. And this new chapter in their lives promises new possibilities with new sources of happiness and peace.
Similar to Will, Elizabeth chose to live in Great Diamond Island years ago after a couple harrowing and heartbreaking relationships. She is happily settled in her cozy cottage and has built a new life for herself with work and wonderful friends. Elizabeth has moved on from her past, but it has left scars and effects how she thinks of herself and relationships in general.
See what happens when these two acquaintances agree to become friends, and then, tentatively take a step towards something more…
WHAT I LOVED:
- Modern P&Pish: I love that is story is a modern-day adaptation of Pride and Prejudice that takes its own slant – it creates its own plot lines and there are some alterations with characters. For example – Elizabeth and Darcy are both previously married (to characters readers will recognize), Will Darcy’s father is alive, and the Darcys don’t have any previous history with George Wickham. I am in love with this series already because of its uniqueness and unpredictability.
- A Coastal Haven: This setting is amazing. I truly do feel like I escaped to this enchanting island every time I open this book! And as you might guess, I have a penchant fo coastal towns and love seeing them featured in stories I read. Cat Andrews did such a marvelous job describing the scenery and community. She created a place that feels authentic and inviting. I now want to go to Maine even more than I did before!
- Challenging Pasts: It is interesting to learn that both Elizabeth and Will have had some heartache and emotional turbulence in their lives. It is inspiring to know that they went through something so challenging and are coming out on the other side of it. I think it is interesting that both characters that have had difficult hardships and not just one.
- Unhurried Pace, Unhurried Life: While I do love fast-paced action and exhilarating reads, I also love leisurely-paced relationships and observing the day-to-day minutiae of characters’ lives – especially when it is Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s! I loved witnessing their time together and reflective time apart, and living vicariously through them! What I would give to be in Lizzy’s shoes! Cat Andrew struck a perfect balance with her pacing so far in this series – she doesn’t give too much or too little of anything.
- Will and Jack: Swoon! I adore these two and their incredibly endearing relationship with each other! Jack is so sweet and precocious, and I have always loved seeing any version of a Darcy character interact with a child. Be warned…the sweet exchanges between these two could reduce you to a puddle. I think this may be one of the few times when I have seen Darcy as a single father and that dynamic has been interesting to explore. I also love seeing Darcy be adorably awkward around Elizabeth!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
Not. A. Single. Thing.
CONCLUSION:
I have only read the first book of this series, but already I feel such a strong appreciation and emotional attachment to these characters and their world. With Sanctuary, Cat Andrews has crafted a unique, stirring, and compelling Pride and Prejudice contemporary romance that is sure to enthrall and enchant readers! I am so happy I get to spend 1000+ pages with these characters!
Austenesque Reviews
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Modern Adaptation
NOTE: This is volume one in a three volume series. It will be necessary to read all three books to attain the story’s conclusion.
SETTING: Great Diamond Island, Maine Present-Day
SYNOPSIS: Will Darcy and his five-year-old son, Jack, are the newest residents of Great Diamond Island. An island off the coast of Maine that is picturesque, secluded, and allows only golf carts for residential transportation. It will be a new start and drastic change of pace for Will and Jack, who years ago experienced the trauma and sorrow of losing Jack’s mother. But Will is determined to embrace a better life with his son Jack. And this new chapter in their lives promises new possibilities with new sources of happiness and peace.
Similar to Will, Elizabeth chose to live in Great Diamond Island years ago after a couple harrowing and heartbreaking relationships. She is happily settled in her cozy cottage and has built a new life for herself with work and wonderful friends. Elizabeth has moved on from her past, but it has left scars and effects how she thinks of herself and relationships in general.
See what happens when these two acquaintances agree to become friends, and then, tentatively take a step towards something more…
WHAT I LOVED:
- Modern P&Pish: I love that is story is a modern-day adaptation of Pride and Prejudice that takes its own slant – it creates its own plot lines and there are some alterations with characters. For example – Elizabeth and Darcy are both previously married (to characters readers will recognize), Will Darcy’s father is alive, and the Darcys don’t have any previous history with George Wickham. I am in love with this series already because of its uniqueness and unpredictability.
- A Coastal Haven: This setting is amazing. I truly do feel like I escaped to this enchanting island every time I open this book! And as you might guess, I have a penchant fo coastal towns and love seeing them featured in stories I read. Cat Andrews did such a marvelous job describing the scenery and community. She created a place that feels authentic and inviting. I now want to go to Maine even more than I did before!
- Challenging Pasts: It is interesting to learn that both Elizabeth and Will have had some heartache and emotional turbulence in their lives. It is inspiring to know that they went through something so challenging and are coming out on the other side of it. I think it is interesting that both characters that have had difficult hardships and not just one.
- Unhurried Pace, Unhurried Life: While I do love fast-paced action and exhilarating reads, I also love leisurely-paced relationships and observing the day-to-day minutiae of characters’ lives – especially when it is Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s! I loved witnessing their time together and reflective time apart, and living vicariously through them! What I would give to be in Lizzy’s shoes! Cat Andrew struck a perfect balance with her pacing so far in this series – she doesn’t give too much or too little of anything.
- Will and Jack: Swoon! I adore these two and their incredibly endearing relationship with each other! Jack is so sweet and precocious, and I have always loved seeing any version of a Darcy character interact with a child. Be warned…the sweet exchanges between these two could reduce you to a puddle. I think this may be one of the few times when I have seen Darcy as a single father and that dynamic has been interesting to explore. I also love seeing Darcy be adorably awkward around Elizabeth!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
Not. A. Single. Thing.
CONCLUSION:
I have only read the first book of this series, but already I feel such a strong appreciation and emotional attachment to these characters and their world. With Sanctuary, Cat Andrews has crafted a unique, stirring, and compelling Pride and Prejudice contemporary romance that is sure to enthrall and enchant readers! I am so happy I get to spend 1000+ pages with these characters!
Austenesque Reviews
March 26, 2023
Thoroughly Captivating!
From the moment I began to read this modern, non-canon Pride and Prejudice variation, I knew in my gut that I was going to be completely occupied reading this book until I finished it. Cat Andrews is an outstanding writer, bringing the pages alive with a brilliant story, great dialogue, excellent character portrayals, and descriptive surroundings—in this case, Portland, Maine and Great Diamond Island.
In the opening pages of the Prologue, we get a glimpse into the lives of Will and Elizabeth who are being confronted with two difficult and different trials in life—one facing grief and the challenge of raising a five-year old son, the other divorce and deceit, and overcoming the effects of abuse. The story continues, as my favourite literary couple of all time meet and fall in love, despite the continuing trials they face together, and working out their individual struggles.
I was completely drawn in by these characters, so well portrayed. Darcy is a great Dad. His son, Jack, precocious and sweet. He’s especially adorable when correcting his father. Elizabeth is sensitive due to her past, and not the shrew she is often portrayed to be in many variations. Can she learn to trust again while some family members and so-called friends throw obstacles in the path of her relationship with Will (who is absolutely swoon worthy in this story, by the way)? Darcy is everything patient and kind towards Elizabeth while she works through tentative feelings towards intimacy. We are eventually introduced to the usual characters of P&P, as well as new ones. Two favourites may surprise you.
I simply cannot wait to read the second volume and highly recommend this one. I have no doubt I will read this again.
***Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest, unbiased review.
March 26, 2023 - Four times read, four times loved. I absolutely love revisiting the story of Will, Elizabeth and Jack—truly beloved characters.
From the moment I began to read this modern, non-canon Pride and Prejudice variation, I knew in my gut that I was going to be completely occupied reading this book until I finished it. Cat Andrews is an outstanding writer, bringing the pages alive with a brilliant story, great dialogue, excellent character portrayals, and descriptive surroundings—in this case, Portland, Maine and Great Diamond Island.
In the opening pages of the Prologue, we get a glimpse into the lives of Will and Elizabeth who are being confronted with two difficult and different trials in life—one facing grief and the challenge of raising a five-year old son, the other divorce and deceit, and overcoming the effects of abuse. The story continues, as my favourite literary couple of all time meet and fall in love, despite the continuing trials they face together, and working out their individual struggles.
I was completely drawn in by these characters, so well portrayed. Darcy is a great Dad. His son, Jack, precocious and sweet. He’s especially adorable when correcting his father. Elizabeth is sensitive due to her past, and not the shrew she is often portrayed to be in many variations. Can she learn to trust again while some family members and so-called friends throw obstacles in the path of her relationship with Will (who is absolutely swoon worthy in this story, by the way)? Darcy is everything patient and kind towards Elizabeth while she works through tentative feelings towards intimacy. We are eventually introduced to the usual characters of P&P, as well as new ones. Two favourites may surprise you.
I simply cannot wait to read the second volume and highly recommend this one. I have no doubt I will read this again.
***Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest, unbiased review.
March 26, 2023 - Four times read, four times loved. I absolutely love revisiting the story of Will, Elizabeth and Jack—truly beloved characters.
December 23, 2020
Well written slow burner
1. Book in the Sanctuary trilogy.
A contemporary, off canon story that was engaging, well written and ladled with sexual tension.
Loved the location on an island off the Maine coast and what the island community added to the story. Several of canon's characters had been appointed new roles, off and on the island, some may come as a surprise.
Both Mr Darcy and Elizabeth have been married before and are deeply wounded from the experience albeit in entirely different ways.
Jack, Mr Darcy's son was adorable but
Mr Darcy's pining for his dead wife (not a spoiler, happens in the first pages) was difficult to stomach. I am one of those who shy away from reading stories were either of ODC (our dear couple) have been/are romantically involved with anybody else...
He was otherwise very well portraited as tonguetied but adorable.
Not so sure about this subdued Elizabeth. Perfectly natural and plausible with the storyline but I prefer her with a little more edge and wit. It will be interesting to see how her character evolves through the trilogy though.
PS: In my corner of the world, Mr Darcy's first impression would be considered perfectly natural, not rude at all. A quirky cultural difference between US society versus Scandinavian :)
1. Book in the Sanctuary trilogy.
A contemporary, off canon story that was engaging, well written and ladled with sexual tension.
Loved the location on an island off the Maine coast and what the island community added to the story. Several of canon's characters had been appointed new roles, off and on the island, some may come as a surprise.
Both Mr Darcy and Elizabeth have been married before and are deeply wounded from the experience albeit in entirely different ways.
Jack, Mr Darcy's son was adorable but
Mr Darcy's pining for his dead wife (not a spoiler, happens in the first pages) was difficult to stomach. I am one of those who shy away from reading stories were either of ODC (our dear couple) have been/are romantically involved with anybody else...
He was otherwise very well portraited as tonguetied but adorable.
Not so sure about this subdued Elizabeth. Perfectly natural and plausible with the storyline but I prefer her with a little more edge and wit. It will be interesting to see how her character evolves through the trilogy though.
PS: In my corner of the world, Mr Darcy's first impression would be considered perfectly natural, not rude at all. A quirky cultural difference between US society versus Scandinavian :)
April 13, 2021
It's supposed to be a pride and prejudice variation but it really isn't. It's just a subpar romance novel with a wishy washy plot that happens to have characters with the same names as those in Pride and Prejudice. Neither the personalities of the characters, nor the relationships between them are anything like the ones in P&P. Of anyone. Not Lizzy, not Darcy, not Jane, or Col. Fitzwilliam, or Lady Catherine, or Mr. Bennet, or Anne De Bourgh, or Lydia Bennet. Maybe Mr. and Miss Bingley still resemble themselves (or their fanfiction selves) but that's it.
And none of the values of Pride and Prejudice are kept either. Darcy leaves a bad impression on Lizzy for all of two days when he is so thunderstruck with love he forgets his manner (lol what). But that gets resolved in like the second chapter when he apologizes and there is nothing to figure out for the rest of the three books.
Which brings me to my second complaint. It could have been a good romance even if it's not a P&P variation except that the author has no idea how to carry a plot. For one thing, the love between Darcy and Lizzy has absolutely no basis. He has barely said two sentences to her before he realizes the power of the magical attraction he feels for her. And the author keeps repeating the tired refrain "she is beautiful and smart and caring" and (worse still) spends page after page lauding Lizzy's sexiness and then adding a stupid line about how much "his love for her is about something deeper than just lust." Yeah? Then why did you spend three pages talking about lust? Just saying it's deep doesn't make it so.
And the one great thing that is supposed to bring these two together? The basis of their understanding of each other? Past trauma of the most cliched sort. She had an abusive husband. His wife died in a car accident. They don't need a romantic partner so much as a support group.
As unbelievable as the surface romance is, the dialogue and writing was still good. It could have carried the book if there was a plot to see through. Every hurdle, every plot point, gets resolved within a chapter. The characters are too clever, too good at communication to fall for plot lines. And I'm not saying I advocate for stupid plots where everything would be resolved if only the characters acted like mature human beings. I'm saying there should be some plot carrying the story. Some tension to resolve. A climax to move towards. It reads more like a series of "a day in the life" patched up together, with the glue of every cliched line you have ever read in the genre.
The only part of this book series I actually enjoyed was the character of Jack Darcy. He was original and believable, and could bring a smile to my lips or tears to my eyes, with just a few words. His innocence and childishness came through perfectly - though at time he was too perfect and polite for a five year old.
And none of the values of Pride and Prejudice are kept either. Darcy leaves a bad impression on Lizzy for all of two days when he is so thunderstruck with love he forgets his manner (lol what). But that gets resolved in like the second chapter when he apologizes and there is nothing to figure out for the rest of the three books.
Which brings me to my second complaint. It could have been a good romance even if it's not a P&P variation except that the author has no idea how to carry a plot. For one thing, the love between Darcy and Lizzy has absolutely no basis. He has barely said two sentences to her before he realizes the power of the magical attraction he feels for her. And the author keeps repeating the tired refrain "she is beautiful and smart and caring" and (worse still) spends page after page lauding Lizzy's sexiness and then adding a stupid line about how much "his love for her is about something deeper than just lust." Yeah? Then why did you spend three pages talking about lust? Just saying it's deep doesn't make it so.
And the one great thing that is supposed to bring these two together? The basis of their understanding of each other? Past trauma of the most cliched sort. She had an abusive husband. His wife died in a car accident. They don't need a romantic partner so much as a support group.
As unbelievable as the surface romance is, the dialogue and writing was still good. It could have carried the book if there was a plot to see through. Every hurdle, every plot point, gets resolved within a chapter. The characters are too clever, too good at communication to fall for plot lines. And I'm not saying I advocate for stupid plots where everything would be resolved if only the characters acted like mature human beings. I'm saying there should be some plot carrying the story. Some tension to resolve. A climax to move towards. It reads more like a series of "a day in the life" patched up together, with the glue of every cliched line you have ever read in the genre.
The only part of this book series I actually enjoyed was the character of Jack Darcy. He was original and believable, and could bring a smile to my lips or tears to my eyes, with just a few words. His innocence and childishness came through perfectly - though at time he was too perfect and polite for a five year old.
June 7, 2022
“Disclosure: I received an ARC with no promise of a review, favorable or otherwise.”
This book is volume one of a three-volume story.
Sanctuary is a story of new beginnings, of life giving us a second chance to find happiness.
Will Darcy is a widower with a five-year old son, Jack, who needs to change his life and decides to move from New York City to this little island in Maine. Elizabeth Bennet is a librarian from Boston who decides to move to the same island after the end of horrible marriage to start over. Despite an awkward beginning, Will and Elizabeth discover very soon in their relationship that they were meant to be together and that somehow their fate brought them to this island.
In volume 1, we get to see the beginning of their relationship and to understand, to a certain point, their background stories, their families and everything that happened to them before they met each other. We witness the first moment when they realize they are falling in love and how special that is. We get to meet the people who live on this island: Charles Bingley and his contagious good humour, Maddie Gardiner and her husband Ed, who play a very important role in Elizabeth’s life and her recovery when she moved to the island and many others. We also get to know Jack, Will’s adorable 5-year-old son who steals Elizabeth’s heart (and mine too). We also get a glimpse in the life of Will’s and Elizabeth’s families and how they react to their relationship. The story is mostly set in Great Diamond Island and Portland, in Maine, and the author describes the scenery in a most interesting and compelling way, especially Great Diamond Island, which plays a huge part in the story as the background of Will and Lizzy’s love. Many times during the reading I found myself searching for pictures of the places described in the story and they were beautiful. I literally couldn’t put this book down, and after finishing the first volume, quickly started volume 2.
This book is volume one of a three-volume story.
Sanctuary is a story of new beginnings, of life giving us a second chance to find happiness.
Will Darcy is a widower with a five-year old son, Jack, who needs to change his life and decides to move from New York City to this little island in Maine. Elizabeth Bennet is a librarian from Boston who decides to move to the same island after the end of horrible marriage to start over. Despite an awkward beginning, Will and Elizabeth discover very soon in their relationship that they were meant to be together and that somehow their fate brought them to this island.
In volume 1, we get to see the beginning of their relationship and to understand, to a certain point, their background stories, their families and everything that happened to them before they met each other. We witness the first moment when they realize they are falling in love and how special that is. We get to meet the people who live on this island: Charles Bingley and his contagious good humour, Maddie Gardiner and her husband Ed, who play a very important role in Elizabeth’s life and her recovery when she moved to the island and many others. We also get to know Jack, Will’s adorable 5-year-old son who steals Elizabeth’s heart (and mine too). We also get a glimpse in the life of Will’s and Elizabeth’s families and how they react to their relationship. The story is mostly set in Great Diamond Island and Portland, in Maine, and the author describes the scenery in a most interesting and compelling way, especially Great Diamond Island, which plays a huge part in the story as the background of Will and Lizzy’s love. Many times during the reading I found myself searching for pictures of the places described in the story and they were beautiful. I literally couldn’t put this book down, and after finishing the first volume, quickly started volume 2.
June 27, 2020
“Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest, unbiased review.”
I tend to prefer my JAFF to be Regency but this Modern variation is such a wonderful story I’m glad I made an exception. While we do have an assembly of a lot of our usual characters they are not true to canon. But the changes and the relationships they have with each other work so beautifully together to enhance the story. Our friends and their family and world were described so vividly that they felt real. Like we were catching up with old friends and their lives instead of reading a story. I don’t want to spoil the story for anyone so I’ll just say how I felt. This story drew me in and burrowed it’s way into my heart very quickly. You will fall in love with them and want to see what happens next. I laughed, I sighed, I cried and I loved every minute of it. This will become a regularly read favorite in my library for certain. I highly recommend it for a lovely story.
I tend to prefer my JAFF to be Regency but this Modern variation is such a wonderful story I’m glad I made an exception. While we do have an assembly of a lot of our usual characters they are not true to canon. But the changes and the relationships they have with each other work so beautifully together to enhance the story. Our friends and their family and world were described so vividly that they felt real. Like we were catching up with old friends and their lives instead of reading a story. I don’t want to spoil the story for anyone so I’ll just say how I felt. This story drew me in and burrowed it’s way into my heart very quickly. You will fall in love with them and want to see what happens next. I laughed, I sighed, I cried and I loved every minute of it. This will become a regularly read favorite in my library for certain. I highly recommend it for a lovely story.
December 22, 2020
3.5
First book of a series.
Not at all like P&P and there are some surprises with the characters. Keeps you guessing.
Book is enjoyable & well written. The Darcy/Lizzy relationship build up is nice and there is interesting backstory for both, but it definitely ends mid story so not really stand alone.
Only bit that didn’t ring true for me is how physically lovey-dovey they are in front of Jack, or when he is just outside, which doesn’t always seem appropriate. And surprising they haven’t considered the emotional impact on Jack either, as they haven’t actually made any real commitment at this point.
Off to read next book.
First book of a series.
Not at all like P&P and there are some surprises with the characters. Keeps you guessing.
Book is enjoyable & well written. The Darcy/Lizzy relationship build up is nice and there is interesting backstory for both, but it definitely ends mid story so not really stand alone.
Only bit that didn’t ring true for me is how physically lovey-dovey they are in front of Jack, or when he is just outside, which doesn’t always seem appropriate. And surprising they haven’t considered the emotional impact on Jack either, as they haven’t actually made any real commitment at this point.
Off to read next book.
August 31, 2024
An excellent start to a three part series.
Both Darcy and Elizabeth have experienced trauma in thier previous relationships and need to be bold to step out of their comfort zones to find out whether there is something new for them.
This story is definitely “off-canon” but that does not in any way detract from an excellent story. The writing is tight and the plot flows easily.
Both Darcy and Elizabeth have experienced trauma in thier previous relationships and need to be bold to step out of their comfort zones to find out whether there is something new for them.
This story is definitely “off-canon” but that does not in any way detract from an excellent story. The writing is tight and the plot flows easily.
July 22, 2021
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https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Sanctuary is one of those books that has been on my TBR since it was released. I heard nothing but good things about it, and it seemed to be a favourite for everyone last year, so I was super happy when I was finally able to start reading it this month.
As expected, the story did not disappoint and the cosiness of the setting, along with a very natural writing style, made me completely rendered to it.
Sanctuary takes place in modern Maine and I wouldn’t consider it a modernization of Pride and Prejudice but more of a P&P inspired story. The book focuses on Darcy and Elizabeth who have moved into Great Diamond Island in Maine for a fresh start after having have been through difficult moments in their lives. Elizabeth is coming out of an abusive marriage and Darcy is a single father whose wife died in a car accident a few years prior. The author doesn’t reveal much more about their backgrounds with the story starting almost with their first encounter in the island, and one of the aspects I loved the most about the book was how the events that took place in their lives are slowly unfolded as the story progresses.
Cat Andrews doesn’t describe everything that happened to the main characters, instead, she naturally adds details of that past to the story through the characters dialogues or reflections. The fact that the reader slowly unfolds what happened is part of why the book is so addictive. We want to keep reading just to understand exactly how their lives were before they moved to Maine, and what made them the person they are today.
Another aspect I loved about Sanctuary was the feeling of cosiness it provokes. I wouldn’t say the book has a small town feeling into it, but it certainly transports us into a different reality and a relaxed and happy environment. I would love to have a house in Great Diamond Island, which I’ve googled a thousand times after reading the book, and I would certainly love to have the life its inhabitants have.
The fact that Darcy is a single father was another endearing aspect of the book. I have seen books where Elizabeth has children, but it is not usual to see Darcy as a single parent in modern times, and I loved to see how he decided to raise his kid. I was also happy to see that even if his son Jack is present in a great part of the book, and we start to see the proximity Elizabeth develops with him, he doesn’t steel the spotlight from our dear couple.
It was also fun to see a new secondary characters coming into scene because familiar names would appear with a completely different connection to Elizabeth and/or Darcy, and a completely different posture and personality. The reader never knows what to expect when a new character appears, especially because the plot is completely different from canon, which means that familiar characters have a different relevance in the story.
The romance between Darcy and Elizabeth is endearing as this is clearly a slow motion and low angst story, and even if it felt a bit juvenile at times, I loved seeing how this couple helped one another overcome their traumas and slowly grow as a couple. Sanctuary is a three-volume book and I cannot wait to see how the story will progress in the next two volumes. I am convinced the author will deepen the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth as well as their relationship with Jack (Darcy’s son), but I also believe we will also see them overcome some obstacles to find their HEA, and I am very curious to see what is coming in their way and how they will manage it.
Summing up, Sanctuary is a Pride and Prejudice inspired story that takes its time to develop the characters relationships, daily lives and inner struggles. It is a low angst romance with a relaxed and happy vibe that I recommend to readers who are looking for sweet modern story depicting Darcy and Elizabeth.
If you are interested in these type of stories, you may like to know the author is releasing a new novel tomorrow called An Unexpected Harvest. The book is a city girl/small-town boy romance and I must confess I absolutely love these stories! I’m not even sure if I’ll read Sanctuary: Volume 2 first, or An Unexpected Harvest…decisions, decisions 🙂
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Sanctuary is one of those books that has been on my TBR since it was released. I heard nothing but good things about it, and it seemed to be a favourite for everyone last year, so I was super happy when I was finally able to start reading it this month.
As expected, the story did not disappoint and the cosiness of the setting, along with a very natural writing style, made me completely rendered to it.
Sanctuary takes place in modern Maine and I wouldn’t consider it a modernization of Pride and Prejudice but more of a P&P inspired story. The book focuses on Darcy and Elizabeth who have moved into Great Diamond Island in Maine for a fresh start after having have been through difficult moments in their lives. Elizabeth is coming out of an abusive marriage and Darcy is a single father whose wife died in a car accident a few years prior. The author doesn’t reveal much more about their backgrounds with the story starting almost with their first encounter in the island, and one of the aspects I loved the most about the book was how the events that took place in their lives are slowly unfolded as the story progresses.
Cat Andrews doesn’t describe everything that happened to the main characters, instead, she naturally adds details of that past to the story through the characters dialogues or reflections. The fact that the reader slowly unfolds what happened is part of why the book is so addictive. We want to keep reading just to understand exactly how their lives were before they moved to Maine, and what made them the person they are today.
Another aspect I loved about Sanctuary was the feeling of cosiness it provokes. I wouldn’t say the book has a small town feeling into it, but it certainly transports us into a different reality and a relaxed and happy environment. I would love to have a house in Great Diamond Island, which I’ve googled a thousand times after reading the book, and I would certainly love to have the life its inhabitants have.
The fact that Darcy is a single father was another endearing aspect of the book. I have seen books where Elizabeth has children, but it is not usual to see Darcy as a single parent in modern times, and I loved to see how he decided to raise his kid. I was also happy to see that even if his son Jack is present in a great part of the book, and we start to see the proximity Elizabeth develops with him, he doesn’t steel the spotlight from our dear couple.
It was also fun to see a new secondary characters coming into scene because familiar names would appear with a completely different connection to Elizabeth and/or Darcy, and a completely different posture and personality. The reader never knows what to expect when a new character appears, especially because the plot is completely different from canon, which means that familiar characters have a different relevance in the story.
The romance between Darcy and Elizabeth is endearing as this is clearly a slow motion and low angst story, and even if it felt a bit juvenile at times, I loved seeing how this couple helped one another overcome their traumas and slowly grow as a couple. Sanctuary is a three-volume book and I cannot wait to see how the story will progress in the next two volumes. I am convinced the author will deepen the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth as well as their relationship with Jack (Darcy’s son), but I also believe we will also see them overcome some obstacles to find their HEA, and I am very curious to see what is coming in their way and how they will manage it.
Summing up, Sanctuary is a Pride and Prejudice inspired story that takes its time to develop the characters relationships, daily lives and inner struggles. It is a low angst romance with a relaxed and happy vibe that I recommend to readers who are looking for sweet modern story depicting Darcy and Elizabeth.
If you are interested in these type of stories, you may like to know the author is releasing a new novel tomorrow called An Unexpected Harvest. The book is a city girl/small-town boy romance and I must confess I absolutely love these stories! I’m not even sure if I’ll read Sanctuary: Volume 2 first, or An Unexpected Harvest…decisions, decisions 🙂
July 9, 2020
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
While I could recap the main plot points (Will Darcy and his son Jack are moving on from tragedy to a tiny Maine island, they meet Lizzy, who is recovering from her own past, misunderstandings ensue), the true heart of this story is in the storytelling itself. Andrews has a way of drawing in her readers with heartfelt emotions and realistic actions. Her research is spot on and gives the reader a wonderfully detailed look at life on a small northeastern island without being a travel monologue. Her strength is in relationship building – not only the predictable relationship between the two protagonists, but others that are not so expected, including sibling bonds and friendships between several of the characters.
Pros: Emotional, compelling, well-researched, authentic. You root for the protagonists but they are human and not perfect. The relationship between Lizzy and Jack is sweet and engaging. Minor characters often have very well thought out subplots of their own and are lovingly crafted. The author’s love for Portland and Boston comes through in the descriptions of events in those settings and she is clearly writing about places she is either personally familiar with or has investigated extensively. This isn’t a one-relationship story to the exclusion of all else. Many things are going on, but there is no careening from one crisis to another, and situations are realistically resolved.
Cons: Personally, I found this one of the most enjoyable self-published stories I have read. But, it is not for a reader who isn’t interested in details of daily living. The characters are not always faithful to P&P – they are their own characters that may use Austen’s as a jumping off point, but if you are looking for a scrupulous modern retelling, this may not be for you. Certain characters are not on the same side of “good” or “bad” as in the original novel. Jane, in particular, is less perfect. There are also mentions of domestic violence, and part 1 ends with an unresolved situation.
Quality of writing: excellent, not only as a narrative but wonderfully free of typos and grammatical errors, and with a strong and varied vocabulary and sentence structure. The entire book flows smoothly.
Conclusion: if you want to read a well-crafted, charming tale with a bit of spice (and the promise of more to come), this author delivers.
While I could recap the main plot points (Will Darcy and his son Jack are moving on from tragedy to a tiny Maine island, they meet Lizzy, who is recovering from her own past, misunderstandings ensue), the true heart of this story is in the storytelling itself. Andrews has a way of drawing in her readers with heartfelt emotions and realistic actions. Her research is spot on and gives the reader a wonderfully detailed look at life on a small northeastern island without being a travel monologue. Her strength is in relationship building – not only the predictable relationship between the two protagonists, but others that are not so expected, including sibling bonds and friendships between several of the characters.
Pros: Emotional, compelling, well-researched, authentic. You root for the protagonists but they are human and not perfect. The relationship between Lizzy and Jack is sweet and engaging. Minor characters often have very well thought out subplots of their own and are lovingly crafted. The author’s love for Portland and Boston comes through in the descriptions of events in those settings and she is clearly writing about places she is either personally familiar with or has investigated extensively. This isn’t a one-relationship story to the exclusion of all else. Many things are going on, but there is no careening from one crisis to another, and situations are realistically resolved.
Cons: Personally, I found this one of the most enjoyable self-published stories I have read. But, it is not for a reader who isn’t interested in details of daily living. The characters are not always faithful to P&P – they are their own characters that may use Austen’s as a jumping off point, but if you are looking for a scrupulous modern retelling, this may not be for you. Certain characters are not on the same side of “good” or “bad” as in the original novel. Jane, in particular, is less perfect. There are also mentions of domestic violence, and part 1 ends with an unresolved situation.
Quality of writing: excellent, not only as a narrative but wonderfully free of typos and grammatical errors, and with a strong and varied vocabulary and sentence structure. The entire book flows smoothly.
Conclusion: if you want to read a well-crafted, charming tale with a bit of spice (and the promise of more to come), this author delivers.
September 9, 2020
Surprisingly, I enjoyed this modern day take on Pride and Prejudice. Elizabeth’s abusive marriage and the nonsense with George Wickham seems like unnecessary angst. I also question Darcy’s father’s meddling. This ends abruptly, wrapping nothing up. It’s a novel published in three separate books. Not ideal. Still, it kept my interest. Picking up the next volume on Kindle Unlimited.
July 10, 2020
I'm so lucky. I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank goodness, it was great, so I can be REALLY honest.
First, everyone else has given the brief overview, so I don't have to do the tedious part of the review.
I get to jump right in and tell about how much you will love these modern characters, except for the ones you'll hate and a few you're going to just dislike. I get to love Aunt Maddie, except she's not Lizzy's aunt, but she might as well be an aunt. And Mrs. Reynolds is still the Darcy's housekeeper, except she's a modern woman who doesn't really keep the house; she's the surrogate grandmother. And Darcy's sister isn't a little girl or a naive ninny, she's a bright, loving, educated young woman who decides what she wants and acts on it.
Truthfully, the whole gang is included but you won't recognize several of them. It's really a lot of fun rearranging your expectations. But the greatest character in this first volume, IMHO, is Portland, Maine and the charming, enchanted island across the bay, accessible only by ferry or maybe, by private boat. And everyone on the island drives golf carts to get from one wonderful location to the next: the beaches, the coves, the playgrounds, the hidden historic inlets and outlets. It's simply a great place to live, hide, and get your head together- well, it is for our dear guy and girl. And Darcy as Dad is fabulous. If you didn't love him before, I dare you to resist!
If I have to include any negative aspect, and I did promise to be honest, it would be this:
The ending is a cliffhanger!
But wait!
Volume 2 will definitely be available. Cat has it ready to go within a week of this one!
What could be better than that?
Enjoy!
Thank goodness, it was great, so I can be REALLY honest.
First, everyone else has given the brief overview, so I don't have to do the tedious part of the review.
I get to jump right in and tell about how much you will love these modern characters, except for the ones you'll hate and a few you're going to just dislike. I get to love Aunt Maddie, except she's not Lizzy's aunt, but she might as well be an aunt. And Mrs. Reynolds is still the Darcy's housekeeper, except she's a modern woman who doesn't really keep the house; she's the surrogate grandmother. And Darcy's sister isn't a little girl or a naive ninny, she's a bright, loving, educated young woman who decides what she wants and acts on it.
Truthfully, the whole gang is included but you won't recognize several of them. It's really a lot of fun rearranging your expectations. But the greatest character in this first volume, IMHO, is Portland, Maine and the charming, enchanted island across the bay, accessible only by ferry or maybe, by private boat. And everyone on the island drives golf carts to get from one wonderful location to the next: the beaches, the coves, the playgrounds, the hidden historic inlets and outlets. It's simply a great place to live, hide, and get your head together- well, it is for our dear guy and girl. And Darcy as Dad is fabulous. If you didn't love him before, I dare you to resist!
If I have to include any negative aspect, and I did promise to be honest, it would be this:
The ending is a cliffhanger!
But wait!
Volume 2 will definitely be available. Cat has it ready to go within a week of this one!
What could be better than that?
Enjoy!
Read
June 5, 2023Review posted at Babblings of a Bookworm: https://babblingsofabookworm.blogspot...
January 17, 2022
This is a a modern day Pride and Prejudice story set in the US, among New York City, Boston, and Portland, Maine. The story is a pretty big deviation from the original story. This is not a stand-alone novel, it's 1 of 3 books that form the full story.
Elizabeth left her life in Boston to get away from a bad incident and move past her divorce. She moved to live on Great Diamond Island just off Portland, Maine. She works as a librarian and waitress and has built up a nice group of friends in her new home.
Will Darcy was married to his high school sweetheart, Anne. They had a son, but when he was three years old the couple was in a car accident and Anne didn't make it. It's a couple of years later, and he has decided to move from his dysfunctional family in New York City to Great Diamond Island, just off of Portland, Maine.
Will meets Elizabeth when he first gets to Great Diamond Island, and they have the opposite of a meet-cute, with Will being unfriendly, if not rude. However, his son Jack is friendly and Elizabeth takes to him. They end up running into each other later on the ferry to Portland and Jack reaches out to her again. The Island is its own micro-community, so they end up being in each other's company often and eventually become friends.
Things I Didn't Like:
- This didn't feel like a stand alone story, it just sort of ended with nothing having been resolved in the narrative arc. I felt like this would have been better published as one book as compared to 3 volumes since it wasn't really a story in and of itself.
Things I Liked:
- Jack was adorable. With a child's honest and earnest viewpoint, it cut through some of the tension between Elizabeth and Will.
- The setting on an island that doesn't allow residents to have cars really helped to show how it slowed down life. This relationship to Will's life in New York City felt like an appropriate analogy to his life between London and Pemberly in the original story.
- Caroline Bingley throwing herself at Will when he moves to the island feels true to character.
Elizabeth left her life in Boston to get away from a bad incident and move past her divorce. She moved to live on Great Diamond Island just off Portland, Maine. She works as a librarian and waitress and has built up a nice group of friends in her new home.
Will Darcy was married to his high school sweetheart, Anne. They had a son, but when he was three years old the couple was in a car accident and Anne didn't make it. It's a couple of years later, and he has decided to move from his dysfunctional family in New York City to Great Diamond Island, just off of Portland, Maine.
Will meets Elizabeth when he first gets to Great Diamond Island, and they have the opposite of a meet-cute, with Will being unfriendly, if not rude. However, his son Jack is friendly and Elizabeth takes to him. They end up running into each other later on the ferry to Portland and Jack reaches out to her again. The Island is its own micro-community, so they end up being in each other's company often and eventually become friends.
Things I Didn't Like:
- This didn't feel like a stand alone story, it just sort of ended with nothing having been resolved in the narrative arc. I felt like this would have been better published as one book as compared to 3 volumes since it wasn't really a story in and of itself.
Things I Liked:
- Jack was adorable. With a child's honest and earnest viewpoint, it cut through some of the tension between Elizabeth and Will.
- The setting on an island that doesn't allow residents to have cars really helped to show how it slowed down life. This relationship to Will's life in New York City felt like an appropriate analogy to his life between London and Pemberly in the original story.
- Caroline Bingley throwing herself at Will when he moves to the island feels true to character.
April 2, 2021
This started like a good Hallmark movie, but became very tedious very fast.
The good: the writing, the very mature way E&D face obstacles
The bad:
Too many boring day-to-day details and conversations made this a veryyyy long book which ends after E&D knows each other just a month(!!!), and it's only the first instalment. Sorry, but this isn't for me. If the series was edited to one book, I think I would have liked it more and probably finished reading the story.
This Elizabeth was too meek and subdued for my liking, I understand it's because of her life experiences but not my cup of E. Don't feel like reading the other two books.
The good: the writing, the very mature way E&D face obstacles
The bad:
Too many boring day-to-day details and conversations made this a veryyyy long book which ends after E&D knows each other just a month(!!!), and it's only the first instalment. Sorry, but this isn't for me. If the series was edited to one book, I think I would have liked it more and probably finished reading the story.
This Elizabeth was too meek and subdued for my liking, I understand it's because of her life experiences but not my cup of E. Don't feel like reading the other two books.
June 28, 2020
“Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest, unbiased review.”
I first read this when it was on a FF site and adored it. Modern adaptations of Pride and Prejudice interests me so much. They don't need to be a re-telling of the original but set in the 21st century, instead, the author can take the characters and their personalities and develop their own story.
In this re-telling, Darcy is a widower with a young son and Elizabeth has just escaped an abusive marriage. They both live on Great Diamond Island on the East Coast of the USA. We learn about how they got there in the first chapters. In typical Darcy fashion, he offends Elizabeth on their first few meetings but the angst isn't high, it's realistic. They are both ready to start a new relationship but having being hurt and damaged previously, they take it extremely slow and cautiously. This means that the pace of their budding romance is slow but it's a slow burn rather than boring and I loved it. They take their time to enjoy the thrill of a new partner, holding hands and feeling the romance is done so beautifully without being corny or unrealistic. With Will Darcy having a young son, Lizzy has to get know him and therefore another side of Will which adds another dimension to the story.
This volume is all about Will and Lizzy getting together and it flows wonderfully. Towards the end, we meet Jane Bennet and Richard Fitzwilliam and the trouble begins...
Can't wait for volume 2!
I first read this when it was on a FF site and adored it. Modern adaptations of Pride and Prejudice interests me so much. They don't need to be a re-telling of the original but set in the 21st century, instead, the author can take the characters and their personalities and develop their own story.
In this re-telling, Darcy is a widower with a young son and Elizabeth has just escaped an abusive marriage. They both live on Great Diamond Island on the East Coast of the USA. We learn about how they got there in the first chapters. In typical Darcy fashion, he offends Elizabeth on their first few meetings but the angst isn't high, it's realistic. They are both ready to start a new relationship but having being hurt and damaged previously, they take it extremely slow and cautiously. This means that the pace of their budding romance is slow but it's a slow burn rather than boring and I loved it. They take their time to enjoy the thrill of a new partner, holding hands and feeling the romance is done so beautifully without being corny or unrealistic. With Will Darcy having a young son, Lizzy has to get know him and therefore another side of Will which adds another dimension to the story.
This volume is all about Will and Lizzy getting together and it flows wonderfully. Towards the end, we meet Jane Bennet and Richard Fitzwilliam and the trouble begins...
Can't wait for volume 2!
March 14, 2021
Nice story but DNF because too wordy. I wondered if we would know when the characters go to the bathroom.
October 4, 2020
This is Volume 1 of 3, so the story ends abruptly with no resolution at the end. Wish I had known that going in. While it is well-written, it is a slow-paced story, which is not my cup of tea, so not sure I'm going to slog through another 800 pages to get to the wrap up. But if you like slower-paced stories, you should enjoy.
June 15, 2022
A very promising beginning
From a not very good first impression Elizabeth and Will go to know each other better. Along with Will's son, Jack, they start a lovely relationship. They also have to learn to withstand outside influences. I can't wait to read the next book!
From a not very good first impression Elizabeth and Will go to know each other better. Along with Will's son, Jack, they start a lovely relationship. They also have to learn to withstand outside influences. I can't wait to read the next book!
June 18, 2022
Cat has done an amazing job capturing a budding romance between two people who were hurt in vastly different ways for their previous marriage. The setting makes it possible, the amusing way she built the other characters in was so well done, and I am glad I added it to this year's TBR challenge!
October 13, 2020
Wonderful
Kudos to a new author for creative and wonderful writing! This is a modern day version, and to say it's a variation is a stretch, rather the author discloses up front that the original P&P is merely a reference. Our beloved Elizabeth here is an emotionally damaged woman, looking for healing and a new start after a couple of abusive relationships. Darcy is also healing from a personal tragedy, and is working on getting past a contentious relationship with his father and cousin. Both Elizabeth and Darcy leave their familiar surroundings and relocate to an island community in Maine, and this is where they meet.
I deducted a star because I'm not a fan of these books of more than one volume, particularly ones that don't stand alone. This book ends in the midst of a troubling situation, with nothing resolved, so if you like the story you absolutely must purchase the next installment. I prefer to have some closure on at least something, so that you can move on to the sequel at your leisure. Fortunately I liked the book enough to continue, otherwise the abrupt ending would have been even more annoying. I also thought that the book could have been shortened considerably by abbreviating the conversational interactions when they're nothing more than "Hi", "How are you?" , "I'm fine", etc. The long, drawn out interactions like these, particularly those of Darcy's son, Jack, just lengthened the book without adding anything of value.
The author is cleverly using an element of suspense, slowly peeling away the layers of backstory for both Elizabeth and Darcy, and it's clear that there are many very serious obstacles still to come. Elizabeth is divorced, Darcy is a widower with a young son, and they both carry a lot of baggage from their pasts. Many familiar names from P&P are introduced, and Wickham, Caroline Bingley, and Lydia are familiar problems.
The storyline is interesting and engaging, and the romance is lovely. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly, and look forward to the next installment.
Kudos to a new author for creative and wonderful writing! This is a modern day version, and to say it's a variation is a stretch, rather the author discloses up front that the original P&P is merely a reference. Our beloved Elizabeth here is an emotionally damaged woman, looking for healing and a new start after a couple of abusive relationships. Darcy is also healing from a personal tragedy, and is working on getting past a contentious relationship with his father and cousin. Both Elizabeth and Darcy leave their familiar surroundings and relocate to an island community in Maine, and this is where they meet.
I deducted a star because I'm not a fan of these books of more than one volume, particularly ones that don't stand alone. This book ends in the midst of a troubling situation, with nothing resolved, so if you like the story you absolutely must purchase the next installment. I prefer to have some closure on at least something, so that you can move on to the sequel at your leisure. Fortunately I liked the book enough to continue, otherwise the abrupt ending would have been even more annoying. I also thought that the book could have been shortened considerably by abbreviating the conversational interactions when they're nothing more than "Hi", "How are you?" , "I'm fine", etc. The long, drawn out interactions like these, particularly those of Darcy's son, Jack, just lengthened the book without adding anything of value.
The author is cleverly using an element of suspense, slowly peeling away the layers of backstory for both Elizabeth and Darcy, and it's clear that there are many very serious obstacles still to come. Elizabeth is divorced, Darcy is a widower with a young son, and they both carry a lot of baggage from their pasts. Many familiar names from P&P are introduced, and Wickham, Caroline Bingley, and Lydia are familiar problems.
The storyline is interesting and engaging, and the romance is lovely. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly, and look forward to the next installment.
March 31, 2021
Good portrayal by Cat Andrews of E&D quickly falling in love, but due to their previous painful attachments, taking things slowly. The setting, on a car-free island off Portland, Maine, creates lots of opportunities for doing just that, with much time spent taking the ferry and just walking about. The book is well written and the story plausible and exciting. Kind of a page turner. There is little to remind the reader of the original P&P plot, but Elizabeth does have two sisters and two friends called Jane, Mary, Kate and Lydia, with Jane playing the part that Darcy played to Bingley in the original: . As for Darcy’s relatives, Georgiana is smart, loving and self-confident, and Richard Fitzwilliam . We don’t learn, in this first volume, what it was about Anne de Bourgh that . Perhaps that will come in volume II.
July 13, 2020
I have adored Jane Austen for 25 years. Her witty style always hooking me in. Cat Andrews, the author, has such an amazing writing style that you will become engrossed in her story and find yourself rereading multiple times. Her take on P&P, in the modern era, is touching, sweet and emotional. You feel yourself escaping to where Elizabeth and Darcy are, rooting for them to overcome their barriers to find their happy ever after. As you read, Cat’s style creates the imagery allowing you to picture the characters, the scenery and feel the intricacies of each situation. (Even if my beloved Richard is not a good guy in this story!). You will be addicted after reading Cat’s stories and impatiently waiting for the volume!
**Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.”
**Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2020
What a great story!!
So I’ve never wanted to read a contemporary romance with Darcy and Lizzy until this one was highly recommended by a friend. I’m so glad I did! This one just feels right. Now on to part 2!!
So I’ve never wanted to read a contemporary romance with Darcy and Lizzy until this one was highly recommended by a friend. I’m so glad I did! This one just feels right. Now on to part 2!!
June 6, 2022
I was lucky enough to be able to get my hands on a copy of Sanctuary just ahead of its release date, and this first volume of the story was delightful and engaging. I love all things Austen-inspired, but I tend to go through periods where I want a specific type of story. Sometimes I’m reading exclusively Regency titles, and then at other times I feel like changing things up and will stick with mostly moderns. I’m currently on a modern kick, so this story hit at just the right time. Add to that fact that Darcy is looking to spend the summer with his son on a beautiful island in Maine at the outset of the story, and the timing couldn’t be better for a charming summer read!
As prior reviewers have already summarized the basic plot, I will stick with my opinions and feelings on this first volume.
What I loved:
1) Of course, I have to start with the relationship between the protagonists. The care and the time that the author takes developing both their back stories and then their coming together made me extremely invested in their story, and I can’t wait to get to the next volume. The slow and tentative exploration of their feelings feels realistic in light of all Lizzy has gone through before the story begins, and you can’t help but fall in love with Will as he supports Lizzy and loves her through her fears.
2) How the island and the city of Portland almost become characters in the story. Andrews describes these places and develops each scene in such a way that you feel as if you are there in the moment with your favorite couple. Clearly the author has either spent time there and has a deep love for the area, or she did extensive research into the places she describes. I found myself looking them up just to see them for myself!
3) Will as a father. With all the Austen-inspired books I have read, I don’t think I’ve ever seen another author do such justice to that parental relationship. If the way he cares for Lizzy isn’t enough to get you to fall in love with him, the way he treats Jack definitely will be.
4) And finally, just the overall quality and excellence of the writing. Clearly the author has put her heart and soul into this story, and the result is beautifully emotional and compelling.
What I think you should know before reading:
1) First, this is not the story to pick up if you want a quick or light read. Sanctuary is the title you choose when you are looking to make strong connections with the characters, really spend time with them investing in their day to day moments, and feel like you’re saying goodbye to a dear friend when you reach the end.
2) Second, while the story is definitely Austen-inspired, it could definitely stand on its own, so if you are someone who likes an author to stick closely to cannon, this isn’t the story for you. The romance between the main characters is all you want it to be and more, but the author does take some liberties with the supporting cast.
3) Third, this is an adult story set in modern times, and Lizzy has survived a traumatic first marriage. The beauty of this story is watching these two characters learn to love and trust one another, and that includes a healthy dose of physical intimacy. It is extremely tender and loving intimacy, rather beautifully depicted in my opinion, but there are those who read Austen and Austen-inspired work looking for something completely untouched by those types of scenes, and it should be made clear that this isn’t what this story is.
4) And finally, while the author does end the first volume on a bit of a cliff hanger, volume 2 should be out shortly after volume 1, so I’m jumping into the next one right now!
I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest, unbiased review
As prior reviewers have already summarized the basic plot, I will stick with my opinions and feelings on this first volume.
What I loved:
1) Of course, I have to start with the relationship between the protagonists. The care and the time that the author takes developing both their back stories and then their coming together made me extremely invested in their story, and I can’t wait to get to the next volume. The slow and tentative exploration of their feelings feels realistic in light of all Lizzy has gone through before the story begins, and you can’t help but fall in love with Will as he supports Lizzy and loves her through her fears.
2) How the island and the city of Portland almost become characters in the story. Andrews describes these places and develops each scene in such a way that you feel as if you are there in the moment with your favorite couple. Clearly the author has either spent time there and has a deep love for the area, or she did extensive research into the places she describes. I found myself looking them up just to see them for myself!
3) Will as a father. With all the Austen-inspired books I have read, I don’t think I’ve ever seen another author do such justice to that parental relationship. If the way he cares for Lizzy isn’t enough to get you to fall in love with him, the way he treats Jack definitely will be.
4) And finally, just the overall quality and excellence of the writing. Clearly the author has put her heart and soul into this story, and the result is beautifully emotional and compelling.
What I think you should know before reading:
1) First, this is not the story to pick up if you want a quick or light read. Sanctuary is the title you choose when you are looking to make strong connections with the characters, really spend time with them investing in their day to day moments, and feel like you’re saying goodbye to a dear friend when you reach the end.
2) Second, while the story is definitely Austen-inspired, it could definitely stand on its own, so if you are someone who likes an author to stick closely to cannon, this isn’t the story for you. The romance between the main characters is all you want it to be and more, but the author does take some liberties with the supporting cast.
3) Third, this is an adult story set in modern times, and Lizzy has survived a traumatic first marriage. The beauty of this story is watching these two characters learn to love and trust one another, and that includes a healthy dose of physical intimacy. It is extremely tender and loving intimacy, rather beautifully depicted in my opinion, but there are those who read Austen and Austen-inspired work looking for something completely untouched by those types of scenes, and it should be made clear that this isn’t what this story is.
4) And finally, while the author does end the first volume on a bit of a cliff hanger, volume 2 should be out shortly after volume 1, so I’m jumping into the next one right now!
I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest, unbiased review
September 9, 2020
Sanctuary is a wonderful modern P&P variation. It’s a long one (3 volumes). I love this story and this Darcy and Elizabeth. There are some mature scenes, but not so many that you can’t skip over if that is not your thing. I highly recommend this story. It is engaging and complicated with just the right amount of angst. I really like how the day to day life of Will and Elizabeth is detailed; Elizabeth’s jobs! Will spending the summer with his son, their island friends. Darcy has been married before and has a son. His son is delightful. Cat writes as 5 year old perfectly. Her dialog is wonderful. Great Diamond Island, Portland, and the ferry are so prominent that they are almost characters themselves. I was given an ARC for a fair and honest review.
January 2, 2025
I would be one very impatient reader right now if I didn't have vol. 2 & 3 ready and waiting for me -- what a great cliffhanger!
On a side note, this is the second novel by Andrews to give me a bad case of wanderlust! Her descriptions of Portland and the island(s) are so beautiful. (And I'm only a 7 hr flight away!)
This is a great start to a 3 vol set.
Highly recommend to all readers!
On a side note, this is the second novel by Andrews to give me a bad case of wanderlust! Her descriptions of Portland and the island(s) are so beautiful. (And I'm only a 7 hr flight away!)
This is a great start to a 3 vol set.
Highly recommend to all readers!
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