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The Banished Uncle: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Aaron Gardiner, the long lost uncle of the Bennet daughters, returns from India after twenty years. George Wickham plots, and gentlemen and ladies fall in love.
It is Christmas, 1811, and the Bennets of Longbourn are startled by the sudden arrival of Mr. Aaron Gardiner, Mrs. Bennet’s older brother who was banished to India more than two decades ago. Aaron is a wise man with a deep understanding of human nature, and his insights into the characters of George Wickham and Charles Bingley prove of great value to Elizabeth and Jane Bennet.
When the rest of Aaron’s family arrives from India, the Bennets find themselves embarking on new and exciting adventures. Philip, Aaron’s stepson, has unexpectedly come into an earldom, and Jane and Elizabeth choose to assist their new cousin in learning to manage his vast estate in Kent.
Mr. Darcy is thoroughly startled when he discovers that the lovely Miss Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn is connected by marriage to the new Earl of Chartham. When his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and her daughter Anne, begin acting in startling ways, his unassailable confidence in his own sagacity is chipped away, resulting in a new humility.
George Wickham plots the ruin of a Bennet daughter, gentlemen and ladies fall in love, and Elizabeth and Darcy eventually attain their happily ever after.
It is Christmas, 1811, and the Bennets of Longbourn are startled by the sudden arrival of Mr. Aaron Gardiner, Mrs. Bennet’s older brother who was banished to India more than two decades ago. Aaron is a wise man with a deep understanding of human nature, and his insights into the characters of George Wickham and Charles Bingley prove of great value to Elizabeth and Jane Bennet.
When the rest of Aaron’s family arrives from India, the Bennets find themselves embarking on new and exciting adventures. Philip, Aaron’s stepson, has unexpectedly come into an earldom, and Jane and Elizabeth choose to assist their new cousin in learning to manage his vast estate in Kent.
Mr. Darcy is thoroughly startled when he discovers that the lovely Miss Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn is connected by marriage to the new Earl of Chartham. When his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and her daughter Anne, begin acting in startling ways, his unassailable confidence in his own sagacity is chipped away, resulting in a new humility.
George Wickham plots the ruin of a Bennet daughter, gentlemen and ladies fall in love, and Elizabeth and Darcy eventually attain their happily ever after.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 27, 2020
231 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
About the author
Laraba Kendig
54 books111 followersI am a scientist by training, but a writer at heart. I have always loved reading with a passion and turned my hand to fanfiction a few years ago. I write stories similar to the ones I enjoy reading. They are interesting but light, romantic but not steamy. I am a super fan of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, and have been having a wonderful time writing P&P variations, exploring how new circumstances affect the beloved characters. So far I have published two novel-length Pride and Prejudice variations plus one short story via Amazon. My books include ‘I am Jael’ and ‘The Blind Will See’.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
January 12, 2022
One I’m favorite genres
The story falls into one of my favorite JAFF genres. An unknown relative returns from wherever they were and changes the lives of everyone. An very fun read.
The writing is 4 stars but I enjoyed the story like it was a 5 star book.
The story falls into one of my favorite JAFF genres. An unknown relative returns from wherever they were and changes the lives of everyone. An very fun read.
The writing is 4 stars but I enjoyed the story like it was a 5 star book.
September 6, 2020
This is a unique P&P what if that postulates there is a second Gardiner brother, older than 'Uncle Gardiner' who due to the wrath of a viscount fled England for India. Upon his return he immediately becomes a plain speaking deus ex machina to P&P.
Alas this good idea is marred by some mediocre writing. There is much too much telling and way to little showing. I don't know if the author originally wrote this as a serial but there is much too much repetition of the previously mentioned telling.
There are things that baffle me, if the new Mr. Gardiner's wife is the daughter of a Viscount she should have courtesy title; her eldest daughter has one.
There is a lengthy subplot about Lady Catherine having dementia which is fine, but would be better explored in a separate volume.
Then there are the Epilogues Not one but 2 and the second is set 10+ years in the future.
i say it often but if you have that much material write a sequel
Alas this good idea is marred by some mediocre writing. There is much too much telling and way to little showing. I don't know if the author originally wrote this as a serial but there is much too much repetition of the previously mentioned telling.
There are things that baffle me, if the new Mr. Gardiner's wife is the daughter of a Viscount she should have courtesy title; her eldest daughter has one.
There is a lengthy subplot about Lady Catherine having dementia which is fine, but would be better explored in a separate volume.
Then there are the Epilogues Not one but 2 and the second is set 10+ years in the future.
i say it often but if you have that much material write a sequel
September 1, 2020
Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family. Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one. ~ Jane Howard
“The Banished Uncle” begins with the return of Elizabeth Bennet’s Uncle Gardiner, who has been in India for more than twenty years. No, not that Uncle Gardiner!
This is the story of the oldest of the Gardiner children, Aaron, who was a young clergyman when he fell in love with the daughter of a Viscount. The Viscount did not approve of his daughter – even his youngest, least favorite daughter – marrying the son of a country attorney. His daughter, Sophia, living in a parsonage somewhere? The very idea! Threats from the Viscount force Aaron’s father to send him out of the country. Sophia is married to the youngest son of an earl. Aaron builds a life and a business in India.
Circumstances with his step-son require Aaron to bring his family back to England in December 1811, shortly after the Netherfield party has departed.
The family — that dear octopus from whose tentacles we never quite escape, nor, in our inmost hearts, ever quite wish to. ~ Dodie Smith
Aaron Gardiner is a confident, powerful man who offers insights to his family, in some ways taking the place of Papa Bennet who has, of course, retired to the library.
It does not take long for him to understand Wickham.
Quote from the book: Gardiner leaned back and took a sip of tea, “I dislike liars, Miss Lydia, and I dislike slanderers even more.”
Elizabeth catches on quickly. Lydia? Not so much.
His path also crosses with Bingley: “I was curious as to what kind of man would jilt a lovely young woman like Miss Jane Bennet.”
The P&P love story is not neglected but it is not heavy on the romance. Bingley has a spine, after all. The usual suspects end up together and a few matchups will be a surprise.
I read this as it posted as an online WIP. I liked it so much I read it again as a published story. As in her other books, the author imbues a strong Biblical undertone.
If the family were a fruit, it would be an orange, a circle of sections, held together but separable — each segment distinct. ~ Letty Cottin Pogrebin
“The Banished Uncle” begins with the return of Elizabeth Bennet’s Uncle Gardiner, who has been in India for more than twenty years. No, not that Uncle Gardiner!
This is the story of the oldest of the Gardiner children, Aaron, who was a young clergyman when he fell in love with the daughter of a Viscount. The Viscount did not approve of his daughter – even his youngest, least favorite daughter – marrying the son of a country attorney. His daughter, Sophia, living in a parsonage somewhere? The very idea! Threats from the Viscount force Aaron’s father to send him out of the country. Sophia is married to the youngest son of an earl. Aaron builds a life and a business in India.
Circumstances with his step-son require Aaron to bring his family back to England in December 1811, shortly after the Netherfield party has departed.
The family — that dear octopus from whose tentacles we never quite escape, nor, in our inmost hearts, ever quite wish to. ~ Dodie Smith
Aaron Gardiner is a confident, powerful man who offers insights to his family, in some ways taking the place of Papa Bennet who has, of course, retired to the library.
It does not take long for him to understand Wickham.
Quote from the book: Gardiner leaned back and took a sip of tea, “I dislike liars, Miss Lydia, and I dislike slanderers even more.”
Elizabeth catches on quickly. Lydia? Not so much.
His path also crosses with Bingley: “I was curious as to what kind of man would jilt a lovely young woman like Miss Jane Bennet.”
The P&P love story is not neglected but it is not heavy on the romance. Bingley has a spine, after all. The usual suspects end up together and a few matchups will be a surprise.
I read this as it posted as an online WIP. I liked it so much I read it again as a published story. As in her other books, the author imbues a strong Biblical undertone.
If the family were a fruit, it would be an orange, a circle of sections, held together but separable — each segment distinct. ~ Letty Cottin Pogrebin
January 4, 2023
Wouldn’t the Bennet girls lives be so much better if there was another sensible Uncle Gardiner? Long lost Uncle Aaron Gardiner shows up with his family around Christmas time. This time Elizabeth joins Jane in London and the story gets better.
Not only does Our Dear Couple get their Happily Ever After but the rest of the family all have better outcomes. There is a decent custody arc and the characters are villainous or sympathetic as expected. It was enjoyable
The author is re writing and fleshing out this story so I thought I would re read the original to get a feel for the changes. It is a very enjoyable story.
Not only does Our Dear Couple get their Happily Ever After but the rest of the family all have better outcomes. There is a decent custody arc and the characters are villainous or sympathetic as expected. It was enjoyable
The author is re writing and fleshing out this story so I thought I would re read the original to get a feel for the changes. It is a very enjoyable story.
January 24, 2021
Rating: Clean: [->13] due to adult themes discussed, should be read by a mature reader. Angst level: medium
It’s always entertaining when authors create long lost relations in Austen’s stories that are such fun characters. Laraba Kendig introduced an older brother to our beloved Edward Gardner, thus giving our Bennet girls a second Uncle Gardiner… Aaron Gardiner. This guy was amazing, powerful, wealthy, family-oriented, smart, brave, and you certainly didn’t want to mess with him.
“What greater sorrow than being forced to leave behind my native earth?” –Euripides, Electra
His backstory was a sad one that caused him and his family [a new wife and two step-children] to flee England for India where they lived for the next twenty-plus years. It was never their desire to return to England but circumstances forced their hand and so they returned to set the tongues wagging in London and especially in Kent. I would have enjoyed reading more about him.
Kent: Well, we certainly know someone who lives in Kent. Oh-My-Goodness did the fur-ever fly. I can’t even tell you what surprises awaited our Darcy when he arrived at Rosings earlier than his usual visit. This was amazing, hilarious, scary, and a sad twist to our canon story. However, our three cousins prevailed and won the round with our Lady Catherine.
Longbourn: Mr. Bennet was horrid. Aaron Gardiner arrived at Longbourn and simply shook his head when he met his sister and her family after so many years. Jane and Elizabeth were invited to accompany him to Kent to help him and his son adjust to owning property in England. They needed help in acclimating to English societal norms and how to run an estate. They also had the help of Mr. Darcy. You won’t believe how our author brought all our players to the playing field. Kendig masterfully manipulated the boys and the girls into the perfect position to find their HEA. I loved the pairings.
Villains: Yeah, they needed to be dealt with. Our resident SBRB was attempting to do his dirty deed and our hero posse rushed to the rescue of the ditzy blonde whether she wanted it or not. Oh, her outcome was hilarious. Poor Mr. Bennet soon regretted every indolent moment of his existence. Mrs. Bennet was simply ridiculous as we read a flurry of letters back and forth between her and her daughters. Those were so like her. I actually enjoyed them. The other letters between sisters and lovers were delightful and so romantic.
Bingley discovered his backbone in this story and I always enjoy reading when that happens. Jane deserved a man who would stand by her against all odds. She was so good and our Elizabeth stood in the gap between her elder sister and those who would hurt her. Oh, what a scene on Gracechurch Street when Elizabeth threw out the trash. Yeah, that was good. Caroline soon reaped a harvest of her own creating. They tried to tell her.
What I didn’t like: With so many characters and their story threads, it was difficult bringing them all to a satisfactory completion without rushing the ending or creating a traffic jam. I’m one of those who enjoy a good epilogue. However, it is a balancing act to not become tedious while still giving each character their HEA, or not, depending on their choices. Let’s just say, all the villains got theirs. I still enjoyed seeing what happened to our characters. I like the feeling of completion and hate leaving threads hanging. I recommend this for something different.
It’s always entertaining when authors create long lost relations in Austen’s stories that are such fun characters. Laraba Kendig introduced an older brother to our beloved Edward Gardner, thus giving our Bennet girls a second Uncle Gardiner… Aaron Gardiner. This guy was amazing, powerful, wealthy, family-oriented, smart, brave, and you certainly didn’t want to mess with him.
“What greater sorrow than being forced to leave behind my native earth?” –Euripides, Electra
His backstory was a sad one that caused him and his family [a new wife and two step-children] to flee England for India where they lived for the next twenty-plus years. It was never their desire to return to England but circumstances forced their hand and so they returned to set the tongues wagging in London and especially in Kent. I would have enjoyed reading more about him.
Kent: Well, we certainly know someone who lives in Kent. Oh-My-Goodness did the fur-ever fly. I can’t even tell you what surprises awaited our Darcy when he arrived at Rosings earlier than his usual visit. This was amazing, hilarious, scary, and a sad twist to our canon story. However, our three cousins prevailed and won the round with our Lady Catherine.
Longbourn: Mr. Bennet was horrid. Aaron Gardiner arrived at Longbourn and simply shook his head when he met his sister and her family after so many years. Jane and Elizabeth were invited to accompany him to Kent to help him and his son adjust to owning property in England. They needed help in acclimating to English societal norms and how to run an estate. They also had the help of Mr. Darcy. You won’t believe how our author brought all our players to the playing field. Kendig masterfully manipulated the boys and the girls into the perfect position to find their HEA. I loved the pairings.
Villains: Yeah, they needed to be dealt with. Our resident SBRB was attempting to do his dirty deed and our hero posse rushed to the rescue of the ditzy blonde whether she wanted it or not. Oh, her outcome was hilarious. Poor Mr. Bennet soon regretted every indolent moment of his existence. Mrs. Bennet was simply ridiculous as we read a flurry of letters back and forth between her and her daughters. Those were so like her. I actually enjoyed them. The other letters between sisters and lovers were delightful and so romantic.
Bingley discovered his backbone in this story and I always enjoy reading when that happens. Jane deserved a man who would stand by her against all odds. She was so good and our Elizabeth stood in the gap between her elder sister and those who would hurt her. Oh, what a scene on Gracechurch Street when Elizabeth threw out the trash. Yeah, that was good. Caroline soon reaped a harvest of her own creating. They tried to tell her.
What I didn’t like: With so many characters and their story threads, it was difficult bringing them all to a satisfactory completion without rushing the ending or creating a traffic jam. I’m one of those who enjoy a good epilogue. However, it is a balancing act to not become tedious while still giving each character their HEA, or not, depending on their choices. Let’s just say, all the villains got theirs. I still enjoyed seeing what happened to our characters. I like the feeling of completion and hate leaving threads hanging. I recommend this for something different.
September 17, 2020
There's so much about this book that I really, really like. The long-lost brother of Mr. Gardiner and Mrs Bennet, Aaron Gardiner, returns to England after many years of banishment to India - Mrs. Bennet barely even remembers her much older brother. With his stepson Philip now the Earl of Chartham, Elizabeth's uncle now provides the Bennet family a valuable social connection - though Mr. Darcy isn't aware of it until long after encouraging Bingley to abandon Netherfield and Jane Bennet.
Aaron Gardiner influences the Bennets right from the start, scoffing at Mr. Wickham's tales of woe at the hands of Fitzwilliam Darcy and causing Elizabeth to reassess her opinions of the two. He seeks an introduction to Charles Bingley in London and calls him on the carpet for his treatment of Jane, leading Bingley to become more assertive with his sisters and Darcy. And Elizabeth's visit with Charlotte Collins is shorter because she proceeds to Rockhill, the estate in Kent that Philip recently inherited.
The plot is wonderfully unique, but it gets awfully busy with numerous additional romantic pairings. Consequently, as the story evolves, it becomes more and more unfocused.
Aaron Gardiner influences the Bennets right from the start, scoffing at Mr. Wickham's tales of woe at the hands of Fitzwilliam Darcy and causing Elizabeth to reassess her opinions of the two. He seeks an introduction to Charles Bingley in London and calls him on the carpet for his treatment of Jane, leading Bingley to become more assertive with his sisters and Darcy. And Elizabeth's visit with Charlotte Collins is shorter because she proceeds to Rockhill, the estate in Kent that Philip recently inherited.
The plot is wonderfully unique, but it gets awfully busy with numerous additional romantic pairings. Consequently, as the story evolves, it becomes more and more unfocused.
September 7, 2020
Good read
This is significantly different from cannon. I loved it, and read it straight thru in one sitting. I think everyone should read this.
This is significantly different from cannon. I loved it, and read it straight thru in one sitting. I think everyone should read this.
August 1, 2022
Loved it very enjoyable
I love all of her books so far ...al! Are different and special.. I enjoyed it so !such I really recom!end this variation .....this is for those who like the characters with new ones with a twist ..BRAVO
I love all of her books so far ...al! Are different and special.. I enjoyed it so !such I really recom!end this variation .....this is for those who like the characters with new ones with a twist ..BRAVO
August 21, 2022
The premise of the lost Uncle was intriguing, but fell rather flat. He wasn’t really integral to the story line & his entire story line was superfluous. The author jumped around from different couples & estates entirely too much to present a cohesive story. However, my biggest complaint is at towards the end where they glorify missionary work. Honestly, I think books with overt religious undertones should come with as much of a trigger warning as others do for adult content or violence. I literally cringed every time one of the characters thanked god.
I had another book by this author in my TBR & after a second look the blurb speaks about the almighty shining his light… I will be removing this book from my TBR.
I had another book by this author in my TBR & after a second look the blurb speaks about the almighty shining his light… I will be removing this book from my TBR.
June 19, 2022
I really had high hopes for this book, especially as it started off well enough. Unfortunately, it was not well executed and eventually I lost interest in the story. DNF at ~45% mark. I didn’t really like Darcy’s character much and Elizabeth (and Darcy a little) were both OOC at times. Not much interactions between ODC at almost halfway through the story and of the interactions that occurred… mostly disappointing and without any chemistry between them.
October 22, 2020
Not my fave. I was waiting for more scenes with the uncle and wished he was the main character of the story.
August 31, 2020
Eh
Could have been more interesting with this different uncle popping up... but geez was it lazy on the proposal scenes. Out of the blue.. I love you, will you marry me? Yes... end of chapter. How anti-climactic. The author basically took out any of the scenes of conflict. Darcy explains away Elizabeth’s misconceptions before they become an issue, her new uncle calls out Wickham, later they block Wickham’s plans in time... everything is just so tidy.
Could have been more interesting with this different uncle popping up... but geez was it lazy on the proposal scenes. Out of the blue.. I love you, will you marry me? Yes... end of chapter. How anti-climactic. The author basically took out any of the scenes of conflict. Darcy explains away Elizabeth’s misconceptions before they become an issue, her new uncle calls out Wickham, later they block Wickham’s plans in time... everything is just so tidy.
August 15, 2023
The Banished Uncle
What a wonderful discovery in this story that there was an older Gardiner brother, Aaron, to Uncle Edward in London who after twenty years has returned to England from India with his family. His wife was his first love, Sophia, but was forbidden from marrying her because in her father’s mind he was not good enough. Years later, when her husband dies and left her destitute with 2 small children, Aaron returns to ask her to marry him. During those twenty years he has helped her raise her two children plus their two. By the work of Fate, their oldest son is by death of all Chartham males, Philip Hamilton is the next Earl. Wouldn’t it be great if you could actually hear the old hateful Earl and her equally hateful father turned over in their graves! Karma. Uncle Aaron takes Bingley to task for hurting his niece, Jane, as well as his sister’s vitriolic remarks against Elizabeth. Bingley separates himself from Darcy after having it out with him, Caroline is sent packing elsewhere, and Bingley renews his attention to Jane. While at Rosings, Darcy renews his relationship with Elizabeth, finds out that Richard and Anne have been married for more than a year and is expecting a little Richard in five months. Aaron, Alexander, and Mr. Darcy rush to Longbourn to save the youngest Bennet daughter from eloping with dastardly Wickham. Aaron has purchased all his debts in Meryton and since he cannot pay, he’s off the Marshalsea. HEA for a whole bunch of people: Bingley and Jane, Darcy and Elizabeth, Philip, the Earl of Chartham and Mary, Kitty and Alexander Gardiner, eventually Georgiana and Lydia. Only one that made a poor choice in her marriage was the infamous social climber, Caroline Bingley against her brother’s warnings, but he was a viscount and she knew better. Great story. Another loving uncle was just what the Bennet daughters needed.
What a wonderful discovery in this story that there was an older Gardiner brother, Aaron, to Uncle Edward in London who after twenty years has returned to England from India with his family. His wife was his first love, Sophia, but was forbidden from marrying her because in her father’s mind he was not good enough. Years later, when her husband dies and left her destitute with 2 small children, Aaron returns to ask her to marry him. During those twenty years he has helped her raise her two children plus their two. By the work of Fate, their oldest son is by death of all Chartham males, Philip Hamilton is the next Earl. Wouldn’t it be great if you could actually hear the old hateful Earl and her equally hateful father turned over in their graves! Karma. Uncle Aaron takes Bingley to task for hurting his niece, Jane, as well as his sister’s vitriolic remarks against Elizabeth. Bingley separates himself from Darcy after having it out with him, Caroline is sent packing elsewhere, and Bingley renews his attention to Jane. While at Rosings, Darcy renews his relationship with Elizabeth, finds out that Richard and Anne have been married for more than a year and is expecting a little Richard in five months. Aaron, Alexander, and Mr. Darcy rush to Longbourn to save the youngest Bennet daughter from eloping with dastardly Wickham. Aaron has purchased all his debts in Meryton and since he cannot pay, he’s off the Marshalsea. HEA for a whole bunch of people: Bingley and Jane, Darcy and Elizabeth, Philip, the Earl of Chartham and Mary, Kitty and Alexander Gardiner, eventually Georgiana and Lydia. Only one that made a poor choice in her marriage was the infamous social climber, Caroline Bingley against her brother’s warnings, but he was a viscount and she knew better. Great story. Another loving uncle was just what the Bennet daughters needed.
September 29, 2020
The Banished Uncle, Aaron Gardiner, brings with him a logical approach to the cannon story of Pride and Prejudice. He also brings extra family members, good connections, and some money to the situation. With that extra lens, the story turns just a bit sideways much to everyone's satisfaction.
The result is a bit less pride and prejudice of sorts and more how to arrange all the characters together in "fish out of water" situations. The banished Gardiner family has spent the last years in India and require assistance in the latest fashion, manners, dancing, estate management, etc.
It was a very satisfying read with beautiful happy couples and a fun epilogue.
The result is a bit less pride and prejudice of sorts and more how to arrange all the characters together in "fish out of water" situations. The banished Gardiner family has spent the last years in India and require assistance in the latest fashion, manners, dancing, estate management, etc.
It was a very satisfying read with beautiful happy couples and a fun epilogue.
January 29, 2024
I loved it!
A good idea which became unwieldy when the new character, Aaron Gardiner, comes along with a wife and four children - all of whom play a part in the story, or have a history that must be related. We've also got most of the Bennets, the Darcys, the Colonel, Lady C and Anne, and all the Bingleys. There are so many people crammed into just over 300 pages. Unfortunately, there are too many to have their stories given the full treatment here. This one book could easily have been four or five, or even half-a-dozen. It's a shame, as most of the characters are given an interesting twist on canon. The title sounds dramatic, but the story isn't. Because of the number of characters and romances developing, the focus keeps shifting. It starts off with Aaron Gardiner playing an important role in altering two crucial areas: Elizabeth's impression of Wickham, and Bingley's desertion of Jane. But then it moves away from Uncle Aaron as the "deus ex machina" to spend time on other characters, shoving the prodigal uncle off-stage. He isn't brought back until Wickham becomes a problem (again). I enjoyed so many of the sub-plots. But I was frustrated that we only got to read a few scenes happening, but then were jerked away to drop in on yet another pairing. The use of a letter exchange halfway through the story, with each letter from and to different people, was clever with a perfect sense of timing. Everybody gets a HEA ending except for Lady C, Wickham, and Caroline Bingley. This often happens in fanfic, so no surprises when that happened. Darcy overcomes his family's objections to his marriage. Elizabeth is wed in a double ceremony that involves not Jane (who married Bingley several weeks prior), but her younger sister Mary. A long epilogue details the endings for other characters, but oddly nothing again on either of the Gardiner branches, although the Bennet parents are mentioned. It's another indication of too many people, not enough time to detail them all. What the reader does get is enjoyable and worth the effort. But I feel this would have been better done as a series. It's ironic how so many authors are deliberately breaking up their stories into artificially contrived series to maximize profits, while here we have a stand-alone book that really deserves to be expanded into a collection.
A good idea which became unwieldy when the new character, Aaron Gardiner, comes along with a wife and four children - all of whom play a part in the story, or have a history that must be related. We've also got most of the Bennets, the Darcys, the Colonel, Lady C and Anne, and all the Bingleys. There are so many people crammed into just over 300 pages. Unfortunately, there are too many to have their stories given the full treatment here. This one book could easily have been four or five, or even half-a-dozen. It's a shame, as most of the characters are given an interesting twist on canon. The title sounds dramatic, but the story isn't. Because of the number of characters and romances developing, the focus keeps shifting. It starts off with Aaron Gardiner playing an important role in altering two crucial areas: Elizabeth's impression of Wickham, and Bingley's desertion of Jane. But then it moves away from Uncle Aaron as the "deus ex machina" to spend time on other characters, shoving the prodigal uncle off-stage. He isn't brought back until Wickham becomes a problem (again). I enjoyed so many of the sub-plots. But I was frustrated that we only got to read a few scenes happening, but then were jerked away to drop in on yet another pairing. The use of a letter exchange halfway through the story, with each letter from and to different people, was clever with a perfect sense of timing. Everybody gets a HEA ending except for Lady C, Wickham, and Caroline Bingley. This often happens in fanfic, so no surprises when that happened. Darcy overcomes his family's objections to his marriage. Elizabeth is wed in a double ceremony that involves not Jane (who married Bingley several weeks prior), but her younger sister Mary. A long epilogue details the endings for other characters, but oddly nothing again on either of the Gardiner branches, although the Bennet parents are mentioned. It's another indication of too many people, not enough time to detail them all. What the reader does get is enjoyable and worth the effort. But I feel this would have been better done as a series. It's ironic how so many authors are deliberately breaking up their stories into artificially contrived series to maximize profits, while here we have a stand-alone book that really deserves to be expanded into a collection.
September 21, 2020
Wonderful
Another wonderful work from this author. She's a talented writer and storyteller, who is obviously a religious woman who likes to evangelize in her stories, but thankfully kept it to an acceptable level in this book. I had recently read The Blind Shall See, and was put off somewhat by the very heavy references to Jesus, the Bible, our Lord, etc. Even though I'm a Christian, it became too much in that book. I was happy to find more focus on the drama and romance in this one.
The story begins after the Netherfield ball, and after Bingley and his sisters and friend have left Netherfield, seemingly forever. The Bennetts have a long lost uncle, as well as several cousins, who return to England from India after a long absence. The uncle is wealthy, and is Mrs Bennett's brother, but, unlike her, is intelligent, hard working and ambitious. Certain circumstances require their family's return, and uncle Aaron Gardiner and his wife and children embrace the Bennett family. The children of both families become close, except for Lydia, and they start spending a lot of time together.
Aaron Gardiner is a "fixer". He takes one look at Wickham, and immediately senses that he's a rake. He hears about Jane's heartbreak after Bingley leaves Netherfield, and he goes to find Bingley to tell him about it. He helps to prevent Wickham from eloping with Lydia. He's an interesting character, as are all the members of his family. These are new people that are a lovely positive impact on the story.
I like the different twist that the author puts on the whole Lady Catherine \Anne DeBourgh situation, and how it affects Darcy. Anne is given a much stronger role, which is refreshing. She's a major catalyst in convincing Darcy to pursue Elizabeth. I like variations in which she's not so insipid.
Although it's a while before Darcy even enters the story very much, once he does, the romance is wonderful. The book is well and well edited. I recommend it highly.
Another wonderful work from this author. She's a talented writer and storyteller, who is obviously a religious woman who likes to evangelize in her stories, but thankfully kept it to an acceptable level in this book. I had recently read The Blind Shall See, and was put off somewhat by the very heavy references to Jesus, the Bible, our Lord, etc. Even though I'm a Christian, it became too much in that book. I was happy to find more focus on the drama and romance in this one.
The story begins after the Netherfield ball, and after Bingley and his sisters and friend have left Netherfield, seemingly forever. The Bennetts have a long lost uncle, as well as several cousins, who return to England from India after a long absence. The uncle is wealthy, and is Mrs Bennett's brother, but, unlike her, is intelligent, hard working and ambitious. Certain circumstances require their family's return, and uncle Aaron Gardiner and his wife and children embrace the Bennett family. The children of both families become close, except for Lydia, and they start spending a lot of time together.
Aaron Gardiner is a "fixer". He takes one look at Wickham, and immediately senses that he's a rake. He hears about Jane's heartbreak after Bingley leaves Netherfield, and he goes to find Bingley to tell him about it. He helps to prevent Wickham from eloping with Lydia. He's an interesting character, as are all the members of his family. These are new people that are a lovely positive impact on the story.
I like the different twist that the author puts on the whole Lady Catherine \Anne DeBourgh situation, and how it affects Darcy. Anne is given a much stronger role, which is refreshing. She's a major catalyst in convincing Darcy to pursue Elizabeth. I like variations in which she's not so insipid.
Although it's a while before Darcy even enters the story very much, once he does, the romance is wonderful. The book is well and well edited. I recommend it highly.
September 24, 2020
Avid Reader
I enjoyed the fast pace of this book. Several reviewers stated the banished uncle didn't have a major role in the book, but I have to disagree. He rescued the love of his life from poverty after her first husband died. He questioned Wickham about his take of air as Elizabeth listened and gave her food for thought. Aaron Gardenier confronted Bingley regarding his treatment of Jane. He made sure that his stepson received his inheritance and accepted Darcy 's assistance in hiring a steward after the first one quit. He joined Darcy and his son Alexander in a maddening horse ride to keep Lydia from eloping with Wickham, and he purchased all of Wickham 's debts in Meryton and had him thrown into the Marshalsea. He didn't stand in his stepdaughter 's way when she wanted to marry a man of lower standing. Aaron Gardenier didn't appear on every page, but he drove the plot where it counted.
I enjoyed the fast pace of this book. Several reviewers stated the banished uncle didn't have a major role in the book, but I have to disagree. He rescued the love of his life from poverty after her first husband died. He questioned Wickham about his take of air as Elizabeth listened and gave her food for thought. Aaron Gardenier confronted Bingley regarding his treatment of Jane. He made sure that his stepson received his inheritance and accepted Darcy 's assistance in hiring a steward after the first one quit. He joined Darcy and his son Alexander in a maddening horse ride to keep Lydia from eloping with Wickham, and he purchased all of Wickham 's debts in Meryton and had him thrown into the Marshalsea. He didn't stand in his stepdaughter 's way when she wanted to marry a man of lower standing. Aaron Gardenier didn't appear on every page, but he drove the plot where it counted.
November 26, 2020
I would have given this book 3.5 stars if possible, but decided to round up, rather than down, as it was not a 3 star book. I like the different characters that were introduced, but didn't love the fact that so much is conveyed through letters between characters, rather than taking the time to develop the scenes. I also am disturbed that two of the characters were allowed to marry, even though they were first cousins. I obviously know that this was not uncommon at the time, but considering this is a variation that was recently written, it is concerning and I was put-off by that.
October 16, 2020
Another pleasing read from Kendig
I liked everything about this book. The new characters were interesting as well as our original characters. I would definitely read a sequel to this book. There's no angst or silly misunderstandings taking up screen time. Various couples find there way to a HEA. I also love how the author always have some part for Mary to play in her stories. Mary is my favorite sister.
I liked everything about this book. The new characters were interesting as well as our original characters. I would definitely read a sequel to this book. There's no angst or silly misunderstandings taking up screen time. Various couples find there way to a HEA. I also love how the author always have some part for Mary to play in her stories. Mary is my favorite sister.
November 27, 2022
4.5 to 5
You ever listen to really good Christian music that doesn't slap you in the face as Christian music and so you actually enjoy the music while quietly taking in the message? Laraba Kendig books are like that. Her writing is so excellent that it doesn't feel preachy and I am always impressed by it. Her characters are always so interesting and new. An extra Uncle Gardiner and his family from India is such a treat here and so well done!
You ever listen to really good Christian music that doesn't slap you in the face as Christian music and so you actually enjoy the music while quietly taking in the message? Laraba Kendig books are like that. Her writing is so excellent that it doesn't feel preachy and I am always impressed by it. Her characters are always so interesting and new. An extra Uncle Gardiner and his family from India is such a treat here and so well done!
September 6, 2020
Very interesting new take
I loved this alteration of my favorite tale. The new characters of the banished uncle and his family were likeable, formidable, and altogether lovely. The journey of self discovery that the younger three Bennet sisters underwent was well done.
Thoroughly enjoyable!!!!
I loved this alteration of my favorite tale. The new characters of the banished uncle and his family were likeable, formidable, and altogether lovely. The journey of self discovery that the younger three Bennet sisters underwent was well done.
Thoroughly enjoyable!!!!
September 30, 2020
Great author
How nice that all the nice characters get their happy endings, even the banished Uncle. I love what he was able to accomplish without throwing money at a problem. Though I do wonder how the Bennetts were able to afford a companion. And what became of the title character. Strange, I don't remember a summation for him.
How nice that all the nice characters get their happy endings, even the banished Uncle. I love what he was able to accomplish without throwing money at a problem. Though I do wonder how the Bennetts were able to afford a companion. And what became of the title character. Strange, I don't remember a summation for him.
February 28, 2021
3.5 stars
I am a sucker for p&p variations as I love the creative twists other authors play out for Jane Austen’s much loved characters. This variation had all of the characters plus a few news ones, ie the banished uncle. Him and his family we predominantly the focus of this story, that followed p&p storyline. I missed the focus being on mr Darcy and Elizabeth. 3.5 stars.
I am a sucker for p&p variations as I love the creative twists other authors play out for Jane Austen’s much loved characters. This variation had all of the characters plus a few news ones, ie the banished uncle. Him and his family we predominantly the focus of this story, that followed p&p storyline. I missed the focus being on mr Darcy and Elizabeth. 3.5 stars.
March 25, 2022
Awesome!
It is always amazing how one event could change everything. I loved this book! The characters, the story, everything about it. The old characters were true to themselves with slight differences to make them interesting. And the new characters were so interesting and unique I couldn't help but love them. Two thumbs way up for this one!
It is always amazing how one event could change everything. I loved this book! The characters, the story, everything about it. The old characters were true to themselves with slight differences to make them interesting. And the new characters were so interesting and unique I couldn't help but love them. Two thumbs way up for this one!
December 23, 2022
Enjoyable resd
Very much enjoyed meeting the eldest Gardiner and how his return to England changed the lives of the Bennet family. Lots of new characters to meet and of course the canon characters of Bingleys, Darcys, etc. I very much enjoyed the story lines, but the end seemed a little rushed. Thankfully there were two "epilogues" to round up some loose ends.
Very much enjoyed meeting the eldest Gardiner and how his return to England changed the lives of the Bennet family. Lots of new characters to meet and of course the canon characters of Bingleys, Darcys, etc. I very much enjoyed the story lines, but the end seemed a little rushed. Thankfully there were two "epilogues" to round up some loose ends.
August 31, 2020
Great story with a different twist.
Great story with a different twist about an uncle that was banished to India and then returned to England. I enjoyed this story on fan fiction and enjoyed reading it again. Thanks for sharing your story.
Great story with a different twist about an uncle that was banished to India and then returned to England. I enjoyed this story on fan fiction and enjoyed reading it again. Thanks for sharing your story.
September 3, 2020
Love!
I have enjoyed all of Ms. Kendig’s P&P books and look forward to the next one. Though they do not follow strictly to canon, they are fun and keep to the principles inherent in Jane Austen’s originals.
I have enjoyed all of Ms. Kendig’s P&P books and look forward to the next one. Though they do not follow strictly to canon, they are fun and keep to the principles inherent in Jane Austen’s originals.
September 20, 2020
Good read
I found this book very interesting but I did find that there were way too many people in it. I could not keep track of who is who. Course that may be my problem because I’m not as young as I used to be
I found this book very interesting but I did find that there were way too many people in it. I could not keep track of who is who. Course that may be my problem because I’m not as young as I used to be
October 22, 2020
This review is from a portion of this book that was introduced as a short story. I love the side character of the lost uncle coming home and the families meeting each other. Give me another P&P variation and I'm reading on cloud 9.
The read was clean and uninterrupted by any errors.
The read was clean and uninterrupted by any errors.
January 29, 2021
Very enjoyable P&P variation! Loved Aaron Gardiner and all the story details around him, his family and interactions with.... well, everyone! I also liked the interesting twist at Rosings. Overall a pleasure to read.
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