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Far From The Tree: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
“My better nature was not merely placed there by the rank of my birth, Mr. Darcy! If I have faults to be attributed to Longbourn, then what virtues I possess must also be credited there. My character is not solely a copy of my blood. I am the result of the upbringing by a family and people – good people – that you have disdained. Do not think that all of Meryton did not perceive your contempt for us.”
For twenty years Elizabeth Bennet had lived, quite contentedly, as the second daughter of a country squire. During her Easter visit to her newly married friend, Lizzy has the dubious pleasure of being introduced to Lady Catherine de Bourgh and her cosseted daughter. To Elizabeth’s surprise, the pair take a keen interest in a mere adopted daughter of the Bennet family, and when Mr. Darcy dutifully pays his annual visit to Rosings Park, her life takes a wholly unexpected turn.
Lady Catherine de Bourgh, it would seem, is intent upon setting right old injustices, and she is a woman who is very much used to getting her own way.
From the author of Dear Nameless Stranger, Far From the Tree follows Elizabeth’s journey as she slowly realises that affection can root itself deeply into the heart in spite of doubts and misgivings. The handsome Mr. Darcy is a different matter altogether, for how could she possibly fall in love with the proud and haughty man she had known in Hertfordshire?
For twenty years Elizabeth Bennet had lived, quite contentedly, as the second daughter of a country squire. During her Easter visit to her newly married friend, Lizzy has the dubious pleasure of being introduced to Lady Catherine de Bourgh and her cosseted daughter. To Elizabeth’s surprise, the pair take a keen interest in a mere adopted daughter of the Bennet family, and when Mr. Darcy dutifully pays his annual visit to Rosings Park, her life takes a wholly unexpected turn.
Lady Catherine de Bourgh, it would seem, is intent upon setting right old injustices, and she is a woman who is very much used to getting her own way.
From the author of Dear Nameless Stranger, Far From the Tree follows Elizabeth’s journey as she slowly realises that affection can root itself deeply into the heart in spite of doubts and misgivings. The handsome Mr. Darcy is a different matter altogether, for how could she possibly fall in love with the proud and haughty man she had known in Hertfordshire?
429 pages, Paperback
First published January 5, 2021
70 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
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July 8, 2025
All women become like their mothers. That is their tragedy. No man does. That’s his. ~ Oscar Wilde
Elizabeth Bennet has no knowledge of her birth mother, no idea who she will become. Elizabeth was a foundling in a London workhouse when Mr. Gardiner took her to Longbourn as a consolation to Mrs. Bennet who had just delivered a stillborn son. Mrs. Bennet was prostrate in her grief and was able to recover when she had a newborn to love.
But, where did Elizabeth originate?
Who were her birth parents?
These are the questions Elizabeth does not know.
The moment a child is born,
the mother is also born.
She never existed before.
The woman existed, but the mother, never.
A mother is something absolutely new.
~ Rajneesh
During her visit to Hunsford, Elizabeth Bennet meets the de Bourgh family. Lady Catherine has always studied girls of the age her lost infant would be, hoping to someday recognize her. Elizabeth has some resemblance to her other daughter, Anne. Is it possible that she was born a de Bourgh?
To me, the best part of this story was the love given to Elizabeth from both her mothers, Lady Catherine and Mrs. Bennet alike. Lady Catherine was a mother who grieved for twenty years. Mrs. Bennet was a mother who loved her adopted daughter as she loved the children born to her.
Sir Lewis de Bourgh was the villain.
But will Elizabeth be able to leave the Bennets in her past?
Is it possible to blend the families?
There is an instinct in a woman to love most her own child — and an instinct to make any child who needs her love, her own. ~ Robert Brault
Elizabeth Bennet has no knowledge of her birth mother, no idea who she will become. Elizabeth was a foundling in a London workhouse when Mr. Gardiner took her to Longbourn as a consolation to Mrs. Bennet who had just delivered a stillborn son. Mrs. Bennet was prostrate in her grief and was able to recover when she had a newborn to love.
But, where did Elizabeth originate?
Who were her birth parents?
These are the questions Elizabeth does not know.
The moment a child is born,
the mother is also born.
She never existed before.
The woman existed, but the mother, never.
A mother is something absolutely new.
~ Rajneesh
During her visit to Hunsford, Elizabeth Bennet meets the de Bourgh family. Lady Catherine has always studied girls of the age her lost infant would be, hoping to someday recognize her. Elizabeth has some resemblance to her other daughter, Anne. Is it possible that she was born a de Bourgh?
To me, the best part of this story was the love given to Elizabeth from both her mothers, Lady Catherine and Mrs. Bennet alike. Lady Catherine was a mother who grieved for twenty years. Mrs. Bennet was a mother who loved her adopted daughter as she loved the children born to her.
Sir Lewis de Bourgh was the villain.
But will Elizabeth be able to leave the Bennets in her past?
Is it possible to blend the families?
There is an instinct in a woman to love most her own child — and an instinct to make any child who needs her love, her own. ~ Robert Brault
January 8, 2021
This book was a loan from a friend.
During the reading of this story I kept wondering at the significance of the title. It is revealed to us, so lovingly, near the end.
Lady Catherine's second-born daughter disappeared soon after her birth and I will not give you those details although they are of huge importance. Meanwhile Mrs. Bennet has lost a child at its birth. Mr. Bennet sends for a baby from a London orphanage with the help of his brother-in-law, Mr. Gardiner, and the child is "adopted" into the family.
Lady C. has never stopped looking at each girl/young woman who is the age her daughter would have been, wondering if she is her missing child. So it is when she learns that Elizabeth was adopted that she wants more details. As a baby's blanket and a portrait of a de Bourgh grandmother are brought to Rosings the matter becomes settled.
As Mr. Bennet departs Rosings (to which he traveled with the baby's blanket), Elizabeth breaks down and sobs and finds herself being embraced by Mr. Darcy...now her cousin. The adjustment for both families' members is difficult. Darcy and Elizabeth find their attitudes being adjusted and the disdain with which he previously looked on the Bennets is now thrown in his face as he finds himself admitting to being attracted to Elizabeth. Is it her change in status that allows him to declare his feelings? How hypocritical that would be!
Anne de Bourgh finds herself selfishly wanting to keep her sister all to herself. After all she has been robbed of 20 years time to interact with and love her. Lady Catherine also has to make allowances as Elizabeth's behaviors reflect the upbringing the Bennets gave her, i.e., walking out is allowed but an escort is deemed proper.
The Matlocks plan a ball as one way to make society accept this new member who is speculated about. Is she a fortune-hunter who has seized upon coincidences to find a place in the ton?
I especially loved the banter Elizabeth and Darcy develop as they are more and more in each other's company. Several times there is behavior and/or words which would have very quickly been marked as outside propriety if they were not now cousins.
Lord Salisbury is such a sweet addition to the story. Here is a man who has admired Lady Catherine for years and she knows it but keeps him at a distance. Oh, he is allowed to be a friend and he proves it when the Lydia situation comes up in this story but she will not allow him to court her.
This is a longer story which kept my attention. I highly recommend it.
During the reading of this story I kept wondering at the significance of the title. It is revealed to us, so lovingly, near the end.
Lady Catherine's second-born daughter disappeared soon after her birth and I will not give you those details although they are of huge importance. Meanwhile Mrs. Bennet has lost a child at its birth. Mr. Bennet sends for a baby from a London orphanage with the help of his brother-in-law, Mr. Gardiner, and the child is "adopted" into the family.
Lady C. has never stopped looking at each girl/young woman who is the age her daughter would have been, wondering if she is her missing child. So it is when she learns that Elizabeth was adopted that she wants more details. As a baby's blanket and a portrait of a de Bourgh grandmother are brought to Rosings the matter becomes settled.
As Mr. Bennet departs Rosings (to which he traveled with the baby's blanket), Elizabeth breaks down and sobs and finds herself being embraced by Mr. Darcy...now her cousin. The adjustment for both families' members is difficult. Darcy and Elizabeth find their attitudes being adjusted and the disdain with which he previously looked on the Bennets is now thrown in his face as he finds himself admitting to being attracted to Elizabeth. Is it her change in status that allows him to declare his feelings? How hypocritical that would be!
Anne de Bourgh finds herself selfishly wanting to keep her sister all to herself. After all she has been robbed of 20 years time to interact with and love her. Lady Catherine also has to make allowances as Elizabeth's behaviors reflect the upbringing the Bennets gave her, i.e., walking out is allowed but an escort is deemed proper.
The Matlocks plan a ball as one way to make society accept this new member who is speculated about. Is she a fortune-hunter who has seized upon coincidences to find a place in the ton?
I especially loved the banter Elizabeth and Darcy develop as they are more and more in each other's company. Several times there is behavior and/or words which would have very quickly been marked as outside propriety if they were not now cousins.
Lord Salisbury is such a sweet addition to the story. Here is a man who has admired Lady Catherine for years and she knows it but keeps him at a distance. Oh, he is allowed to be a friend and he proves it when the Lydia situation comes up in this story but she will not allow him to court her.
This is a longer story which kept my attention. I highly recommend it.
August 4, 2025
Absolutely fantastic! A stunning, well written story revealing a more dynamic Lady C. and Anne, who suffered the worst kind of loss for 20 years, until Elizabeth was brought back in to their lives.
Elizabeth at first not wanting to accept her changed reality, needs to deal with a new family and also transition her feelings for her adoptive family. On top of that, she finds herself cousin to a man she seriously dislikes, but he is suddenly so kind.
There are many fine reviews on this book, but the bottom line is-
it's very good and a must read!!!
Elizabeth at first not wanting to accept her changed reality, needs to deal with a new family and also transition her feelings for her adoptive family. On top of that, she finds herself cousin to a man she seriously dislikes, but he is suddenly so kind.
There are many fine reviews on this book, but the bottom line is-
it's very good and a must read!!!
April 6, 2021
5+ stars
April 12, 2024
A Blended Family
Elizabeth is at Hunsford, and Lady Catherine and Anne de Bourgh have taken a particular interest in her. Could she be Lady Catherine’s long lost youngest daughter? So begins this very different variation. Elizabeth suddenly has two families. She always knew she was adopted, but a daughter of Lady Catherine and cousin to Darcy?
Not wanting to believe her fate without incontrovertible proof, steps are taken to obtain such proof, while Elizabeth begins to develop new relationships with these acquaintances, including Darcy. It’s inevitable that she must take a step back from some, like the Collinses, and even her Bennet family while spending more time with Lady Catherine and Anne.
The dialogue in this book is excellent, and the character portrayals very appealing to me. While Lady Catherine is her indomitable self, she is also a hurt mother who had her infant daughter taken from her at birth. This Lady C is much more likeable than in most variations. Anne, while not perfectly healthy, is much more personable. Darcy, at first quite his proud and aloof self, still loves Elizabeth and is not unhappy she is now his cousin. I particularly loved the personality the author gave Elizabeth in her portrayal, and especially, her sense of humour. Her conversations are highly amusing, especially with Darcy.
Along the way, there are some hurt feelings and jealousies that form the story, and in the end, it is about two families coming together to blend as one. Recommend
April 11, 2024 - Audiobook
I am really impressed by this narrator’s performance. Liz May Brice is definitely going on my favourites list. I loved her Darcy voice—a touch gravelly, but soft-spoken and slightly whispery, which added a gentleness to him and an air of intimacy. Lots of females in this story she had to cover as well; her authoritative impressions for Lady Catherine are spot on. I highly recommend the audiobook version of this book, and the narrator.
Elizabeth is at Hunsford, and Lady Catherine and Anne de Bourgh have taken a particular interest in her. Could she be Lady Catherine’s long lost youngest daughter? So begins this very different variation. Elizabeth suddenly has two families. She always knew she was adopted, but a daughter of Lady Catherine and cousin to Darcy?
Not wanting to believe her fate without incontrovertible proof, steps are taken to obtain such proof, while Elizabeth begins to develop new relationships with these acquaintances, including Darcy. It’s inevitable that she must take a step back from some, like the Collinses, and even her Bennet family while spending more time with Lady Catherine and Anne.
The dialogue in this book is excellent, and the character portrayals very appealing to me. While Lady Catherine is her indomitable self, she is also a hurt mother who had her infant daughter taken from her at birth. This Lady C is much more likeable than in most variations. Anne, while not perfectly healthy, is much more personable. Darcy, at first quite his proud and aloof self, still loves Elizabeth and is not unhappy she is now his cousin. I particularly loved the personality the author gave Elizabeth in her portrayal, and especially, her sense of humour. Her conversations are highly amusing, especially with Darcy.
Along the way, there are some hurt feelings and jealousies that form the story, and in the end, it is about two families coming together to blend as one. Recommend
April 11, 2024 - Audiobook
I am really impressed by this narrator’s performance. Liz May Brice is definitely going on my favourites list. I loved her Darcy voice—a touch gravelly, but soft-spoken and slightly whispery, which added a gentleness to him and an air of intimacy. Lots of females in this story she had to cover as well; her authoritative impressions for Lady Catherine are spot on. I highly recommend the audiobook version of this book, and the narrator.
January 29, 2021
A clever and very funny book with a unique plot, Elizabeth is not a Bennet trope.
Enters at Elizabeth's visit to Hunsford where the book immediately ventures off canon.
I liked the portrait of Lady Catherine which changes in her nature felt believable.
I must emphasise how hilarious this book was, it had me laughing out loud on many occasions but it was long-winded compared to what I prefer. If you prefer a slow burner, there is nothing here not to love.
Recommend
Rated: Chaste
Enters at Elizabeth's visit to Hunsford where the book immediately ventures off canon.
I liked the portrait of Lady Catherine which changes in her nature felt believable.
I must emphasise how hilarious this book was, it had me laughing out loud on many occasions but it was long-winded compared to what I prefer. If you prefer a slow burner, there is nothing here not to love.
Recommend
Rated: Chaste
May 23, 2023
5++ stars. This is one of the sweetest variations. As with the two other stories I've read of this author, her Elizabeth is always witty and oh so loveable and her Darcy is always sweet and adorably reserved. Dame is the case in this. This story is pretty much low angst. There's only Wickham (except Lewis De Bourgh, who's dead already) as far as villains go and only through reference and I loved Lady Catherine's handling of him. Why didn't Darcy think of such a thing? A definite recommendation.
March 1, 2021
Lizzy is adopted
Lizzy is adopted by the Bennets when she was newly born. She thinks of her original mother now and then, wondering about her but mostly she is one of five daughters, treated equally with the rest.
At the age of 20 though, her life takes a huge change. What is a family? A seemingly easy question is shown to be not so simple to answer.
Lovely story, lovely cover which has much to do with answers.
I like the book a great deal.
Lizzy is adopted by the Bennets when she was newly born. She thinks of her original mother now and then, wondering about her but mostly she is one of five daughters, treated equally with the rest.
At the age of 20 though, her life takes a huge change. What is a family? A seemingly easy question is shown to be not so simple to answer.
Lovely story, lovely cover which has much to do with answers.
I like the book a great deal.
April 18, 2022
I read this book because of all the hype for it, and as I read it, I kept on wondering what the hype was all about. I found the story tedious in its redundancy and slow in pace even within the sections of dialogue. The one short section of drama was an afterthought: a side plot that didn't quite fit the story arc. My notes to myself include one that says "it drags so much!" after several that say "slow pace." It took me a long time to read, during which I could have been reading something more light and pleasing.
But I don't want to fool you--you're not going to get the subjective approach in this review. I write technical reviews that explore the items that other reviewers miss, yet that niggle at the reader and cause stars to drop.
The plot was underdeveloped and had some side themes that left the reader wanting, while utilizing a side plot for the only section of real angst within the story, at 80%, after the story arc was essentially complete. That is, it was a good idea, but the story arc is hidden under other stuff that's washed it out.
Pacing was slow, causing the reader to tire easily while reading. It became hard to keep attention to the book. Redundancy was an element that made this book long and affected the interest value. The pace suffered even in dialogue, as if a great deal of effort was being made in building up to something. It never came. The Lydia side story was quick and got the light touch it deserved, because it didn't deserve to be in the story. The final "climax" was a side story and did have a better pace at first.
Point of view was third person, multiple, head-hopping. That means the author didn't indicate clearly to the reader when the point of view changed, and often, it was so unclear as to the speaker for the narrative that the reader gave up after several re-reads. This is an extreme example of an amateurish style of writing. Point of view should be consistent throughout a scene, and when it changes, a marker should indicate so to the reader.
The author used filter words, which means she was telling where she could be showing the characters' thoughts and feelings. This book had a lot of telling, which also affected the interest value.
Editing was poor and unaware of a Regency knowledge base, among other issues. Among the non-Regency words and phrases were "wing back," head/heading, evaluated/evaluating, assessing/assessment, staff, and "dance card." This is a normal number for JAFF. In addition, a few contractions by intelligent or higher class characters slipped by the editor, where Austen only used eight contractions in P&P, and in general only used contractions for lower class or silly characters. Non-British words or phrases included toward, "I will," "we will," "write" for "write to" and "stage" for "stage coach."
Capitalization of items such as "Her Ladyship" was done in error. Hyphens were used for em-dashes. There was a missing question mark and extra comma.
Regency errors was where editing problems showed the worst. A rather large garden was used for London where most houses in town tended to have no gardens in favour of stables. Uncle (Lord Matlock) offered to dance with Lady Catherine, but brothers and sisters never danced together--some rule regarding consanguinity. Professors at Cambridge are not allowed to marry. Jane was able to get a special license--who got it for her? It would need to be a peer. Also, weddings were required to be in the morning. A 2pm wedding (delayed for Uncle Gardiner) would just not have happened unless you were said peer. Nature versus nurture theory in the Regency? I don't think so. There was no such thing as "barouche box" as a name for a carriage. The box was what the driver sat on, and the carriage was called a barouche. When Lady C mentioned in canon that E could ride on the barouche box, it was a rude statement--she was saying E could ride outside with the driver. "A place laid for their midday meal" would not have happened. Luncheon was new in the Regency, and was almost always eaten out of hand. There was no adoption in the Regency. None. Nada. A different way of expressing the relationship would have been used, such as "ward." And finally, Lady Catherine could not frank letters. Only peers could do so. She was the daughter of a peer.
A P&P canon error was calling Elizabeth "Lizzy" in the narrative. It was off-putting.
A geographic error was a statement referring to going to Ramsgate from Kent: "could not be drawn from Kent." Well, Ramsgate is in Kent.
A continuity error had Elizabeth seeing the diamonds sparkling in her own ears.
The formatting was excellent, and I liked the little apples that separated the scenes.
Scene-setting was sparse, and only hints were given as to the physical, missing an excellent way to build up the scene using the senses.
Regarding the romantic aspect of the novel, I was not convinced that E was in love at the initial proposal scene. However, this part of the story dragged and was redundant as well, so by the time there was any official proposal, the romance had evolved to the point where I do believe she loved Darcy.
Characterization was all over the map. The new characterizations of Lady Catherine and Anne were well done and interesting, suiting the story well, yet paying homage to Austen's characters. I didn't care for the choices made for Elizabeth and Darcy, though. Austen gives us a particularly wide range of characteristics to choose from with these two, and the author can select certain aspects and enhance them to suit the novel. I found this Elizabeth's banter fell flat. It was too flirtatious and fawning and not intelligent enough, making her a boring Kitty-like character. Darcy was too wooden. With the exception of sitting at bedside, he doesn't seem to have feelings at all. New characters were not drawn well enough to know them, which was a flaw in my opinion.
The cover is pretty but doesn't do the story justice--similar to the way the story writing was handled. In both cases, a good thing was handled poorly. Flower covers are silly because they say absolutely nothing about the content. The idea of cover art is to hint at the story and entice readers to buy the book. While this cover has good art, fonts, and layout, it has no concept of the content or enticement. Readers will bypass it quickly in favour of more imaginative covers.
Overall, we have crumbs of a good story here, washed out by redundancy and side themes that were more interesting than the story arc. This does not bode well for the novel, which was too long and tedious. I liked the last Jeannie Peneaux book I read, so this was a big disappointment for me.
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author, and some might believe this review might be a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of both the reader and the author.
But I don't want to fool you--you're not going to get the subjective approach in this review. I write technical reviews that explore the items that other reviewers miss, yet that niggle at the reader and cause stars to drop.
The plot was underdeveloped and had some side themes that left the reader wanting, while utilizing a side plot for the only section of real angst within the story, at 80%, after the story arc was essentially complete. That is, it was a good idea, but the story arc is hidden under other stuff that's washed it out.
Pacing was slow, causing the reader to tire easily while reading. It became hard to keep attention to the book. Redundancy was an element that made this book long and affected the interest value. The pace suffered even in dialogue, as if a great deal of effort was being made in building up to something. It never came. The Lydia side story was quick and got the light touch it deserved, because it didn't deserve to be in the story. The final "climax" was a side story and did have a better pace at first.
Point of view was third person, multiple, head-hopping. That means the author didn't indicate clearly to the reader when the point of view changed, and often, it was so unclear as to the speaker for the narrative that the reader gave up after several re-reads. This is an extreme example of an amateurish style of writing. Point of view should be consistent throughout a scene, and when it changes, a marker should indicate so to the reader.
The author used filter words, which means she was telling where she could be showing the characters' thoughts and feelings. This book had a lot of telling, which also affected the interest value.
Editing was poor and unaware of a Regency knowledge base, among other issues. Among the non-Regency words and phrases were "wing back," head/heading, evaluated/evaluating, assessing/assessment, staff, and "dance card." This is a normal number for JAFF. In addition, a few contractions by intelligent or higher class characters slipped by the editor, where Austen only used eight contractions in P&P, and in general only used contractions for lower class or silly characters. Non-British words or phrases included toward, "I will," "we will," "write" for "write to" and "stage" for "stage coach."
Capitalization of items such as "Her Ladyship" was done in error. Hyphens were used for em-dashes. There was a missing question mark and extra comma.
Regency errors was where editing problems showed the worst. A rather large garden was used for London where most houses in town tended to have no gardens in favour of stables. Uncle (Lord Matlock) offered to dance with Lady Catherine, but brothers and sisters never danced together--some rule regarding consanguinity. Professors at Cambridge are not allowed to marry. Jane was able to get a special license--who got it for her? It would need to be a peer. Also, weddings were required to be in the morning. A 2pm wedding (delayed for Uncle Gardiner) would just not have happened unless you were said peer. Nature versus nurture theory in the Regency? I don't think so. There was no such thing as "barouche box" as a name for a carriage. The box was what the driver sat on, and the carriage was called a barouche. When Lady C mentioned in canon that E could ride on the barouche box, it was a rude statement--she was saying E could ride outside with the driver. "A place laid for their midday meal" would not have happened. Luncheon was new in the Regency, and was almost always eaten out of hand. There was no adoption in the Regency. None. Nada. A different way of expressing the relationship would have been used, such as "ward." And finally, Lady Catherine could not frank letters. Only peers could do so. She was the daughter of a peer.
A P&P canon error was calling Elizabeth "Lizzy" in the narrative. It was off-putting.
A geographic error was a statement referring to going to Ramsgate from Kent: "could not be drawn from Kent." Well, Ramsgate is in Kent.
A continuity error had Elizabeth seeing the diamonds sparkling in her own ears.
The formatting was excellent, and I liked the little apples that separated the scenes.
Scene-setting was sparse, and only hints were given as to the physical, missing an excellent way to build up the scene using the senses.
Regarding the romantic aspect of the novel, I was not convinced that E was in love at the initial proposal scene. However, this part of the story dragged and was redundant as well, so by the time there was any official proposal, the romance had evolved to the point where I do believe she loved Darcy.
Characterization was all over the map. The new characterizations of Lady Catherine and Anne were well done and interesting, suiting the story well, yet paying homage to Austen's characters. I didn't care for the choices made for Elizabeth and Darcy, though. Austen gives us a particularly wide range of characteristics to choose from with these two, and the author can select certain aspects and enhance them to suit the novel. I found this Elizabeth's banter fell flat. It was too flirtatious and fawning and not intelligent enough, making her a boring Kitty-like character. Darcy was too wooden. With the exception of sitting at bedside, he doesn't seem to have feelings at all. New characters were not drawn well enough to know them, which was a flaw in my opinion.
The cover is pretty but doesn't do the story justice--similar to the way the story writing was handled. In both cases, a good thing was handled poorly. Flower covers are silly because they say absolutely nothing about the content. The idea of cover art is to hint at the story and entice readers to buy the book. While this cover has good art, fonts, and layout, it has no concept of the content or enticement. Readers will bypass it quickly in favour of more imaginative covers.
Overall, we have crumbs of a good story here, washed out by redundancy and side themes that were more interesting than the story arc. This does not bode well for the novel, which was too long and tedious. I liked the last Jeannie Peneaux book I read, so this was a big disappointment for me.
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author, and some might believe this review might be a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of both the reader and the author.
January 21, 2021
My Rating: 4.5* rounded up to 5*
" ...the love of a mother gives everything and expects nothing." (quote from the book)
Can I say, I thoroughly enjoyed Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Anne de Bourgh in this unique novel and not shock anyone? In essentials, Lady Catherine is no different, except we get to see a little bit of her history regarding her marriage to Sir Lewis de Bourgh. For in this 'what if', much is explained by all the questions that Lady Catherine heaps on Elizabeth Bennet when she visits her good friend, Charlotte Collins in Kent.
"Lady Catherine de Bourgh was not so steeped in her own consequence that she must needs interfere with the everyday life of those under care - it was more that if she saw something being managed badly she could not check the impulse to improve it." (quote from the book - this I can completely understand but I can hold my tongue!)
Both Lady Catherine and Mrs. Bennet have each 'lost' a child. One mother is saved and the other is searching. When Lady Catherine has her nephew, Mr. Darcy, join her in a private meeting with Elizabeth Bennet, the gloves come off and Mr. Darcy's pride is in full bloom. This is their 'Hunsford moment' and it is EPIC!
"Poor Darcy - he had been very much in the habit of having his own way in all things." (quote from the book)
There is much to love in this rendering of loss, discovery and growth for the main characters and one I thoroughly enjoyed. There are certainly surprises within that show a different view of how Elizabeth and Darcy reach their accord...some wonderful dreamy scenes between them too. There is laughter and tears, and a twist to the Lydia and Wickham debacle, but most of all, there is love.
"Mark my words, Elizabeth; one day you will learn to be less hasty in your judgments and it will not be a pleasant experience for you." (quote from the book)
I highly recommend this unique novel, and I suggest you have some tissues handy near the end.
January 22, 2021
Elizabeth DeBourgh?
Not singular in it's conception but thorough. The romance takes a second seat to the more prominent theme of the evolving personalities of the canon DeBourgh ladies. In fact, the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is presented as almost a fait accompli with Elizabeth needing only permission from the great Lady to become as enamoured of Darcy as he is of her. And the character of Mrs. Bennet is largely altered toward Elizabeth due to circumstances. I really didn't recognize this Missy and the book was weaker for it, IMO. Three and a half raised to four for Lord Salisbury, though he too, was an unlikely character in this variation, though welcome.
Not singular in it's conception but thorough. The romance takes a second seat to the more prominent theme of the evolving personalities of the canon DeBourgh ladies. In fact, the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is presented as almost a fait accompli with Elizabeth needing only permission from the great Lady to become as enamoured of Darcy as he is of her. And the character of Mrs. Bennet is largely altered toward Elizabeth due to circumstances. I really didn't recognize this Missy and the book was weaker for it, IMO. Three and a half raised to four for Lord Salisbury, though he too, was an unlikely character in this variation, though welcome.
February 13, 2024
Another beautiful story from this author
A very different chain of events occur at Hunsford when Elizabeth visits Mr Collins and Charlotte.
This story has been beautifully constructed with charm and wit - not unlike Elizabeth. A celebration of strong women.
A very different chain of events occur at Hunsford when Elizabeth visits Mr Collins and Charlotte.
This story has been beautifully constructed with charm and wit - not unlike Elizabeth. A celebration of strong women.
August 22, 2023
love this author, and…
This is my least favorite of her books. I may be jaded by JAFF fatigue, so, FWIW: *spoilers ahead*
I felt the book dragged. I skimmed through a lot of the whole come-out ball at Matlock (snore.). The misunderstandings, both significant and not, between E & D were excessive and I didn’t think they were particularly clever. I’ve read all the authors other JAFF works and overall believe she is a very talented writer.
And. I actually loved this characterization of LCdB, and felt blessed we got less, and more, of Mrs. B. Greater depth than she is usually credited with. I’m a bit fuzzy about what happened to W - was he actually murdered at the behest of LCdB by the dB Toad? So confused 🫤.
Perhaps because my kids have two mommies, but really it doesn’t take much to distinguish one mother from another- some are called mama, some mommy, some Ima, some (your name here.). Just sayin I could have used better clarity when E was discussing LCdB (Mama) or Mrs. B (also Mama). I was unnecessarily confused. “Mama Bennet” was used once, but only once, and that was really one of the few times I knew which Mama she was speaking of.
The book is very sentimental with out being (too) Saccharine.
This is my least favorite of her books. I may be jaded by JAFF fatigue, so, FWIW: *spoilers ahead*
I felt the book dragged. I skimmed through a lot of the whole come-out ball at Matlock (snore.). The misunderstandings, both significant and not, between E & D were excessive and I didn’t think they were particularly clever. I’ve read all the authors other JAFF works and overall believe she is a very talented writer.
And. I actually loved this characterization of LCdB, and felt blessed we got less, and more, of Mrs. B. Greater depth than she is usually credited with. I’m a bit fuzzy about what happened to W - was he actually murdered at the behest of LCdB by the dB Toad? So confused 🫤.
Perhaps because my kids have two mommies, but really it doesn’t take much to distinguish one mother from another- some are called mama, some mommy, some Ima, some (your name here.). Just sayin I could have used better clarity when E was discussing LCdB (Mama) or Mrs. B (also Mama). I was unnecessarily confused. “Mama Bennet” was used once, but only once, and that was really one of the few times I knew which Mama she was speaking of.
The book is very sentimental with out being (too) Saccharine.
March 31, 2021
A beautifully tendered story,a wonderfully drawn Lady C and a terrific tale that’s refreshingly different in its perspective.
September 2, 2022
The premise is excellent, the execution less so.
*spoilers*
Liked
-Love the Not a Bennet trope, kudos for this great premise.
- Lovely writing.
- Elizabeth's relationship with her sisters and mothers.
- The way LCdB treated the Bennet family was soooooo wholesome, I loved every moment of it.
- LCdB and Anne were amazingly characterized, so on point and very in canon. Lady C really moved me she was FIERCE with a marshmallow core.
Didn't like
- The book is too long, the middle where E goes to Matlock was boring. So many pages where nothing happened.
- I didn't like this Elizabeth, her behavior seemed mostly childish to me, she wasn't as witty as she (or other characters) thought and it seems like she REALLY likes hearing herself talk. Darcy was OK if a bit dull.
- The bull was a bad plot device, very unbelievable. The author could have found something inherent to the story (bring in the creepy cousin or something) that would force the families together and be less random.
- The fact that ODC are first cousins *shudder*. That took some major compartmentalization.
*spoilers*
Liked
-Love the Not a Bennet trope, kudos for this great premise.
- Lovely writing.
- Elizabeth's relationship with her sisters and mothers.
- The way LCdB treated the Bennet family was soooooo wholesome, I loved every moment of it.
- LCdB and Anne were amazingly characterized, so on point and very in canon. Lady C really moved me she was FIERCE with a marshmallow core.
Didn't like
- The book is too long, the middle where E goes to Matlock was boring. So many pages where nothing happened.
- I didn't like this Elizabeth, her behavior seemed mostly childish to me, she wasn't as witty as she (or other characters) thought and it seems like she REALLY likes hearing herself talk. Darcy was OK if a bit dull.
- The bull was a bad plot device, very unbelievable. The author could have found something inherent to the story (bring in the creepy cousin or something) that would force the families together and be less random.
- The fact that ODC are first cousins *shudder*. That took some major compartmentalization.
October 16, 2025
I hate "Mr Darcy assumes the worst of everyone / Elizabeth" trope, and that trope works even less when Darcy ALREADY met and fell for Elizabeth in Netherfield, but then is suddenly suspicious of her character in Kent.
Elizabeth is a foundling, adopted by the Bennets after their second child (a boy!) died and Mrs Bennet was close to dying of a broken heart. She comes to visit Mrs Collins, Lady Catherine sees similarity in her, turns out Elizabeth is Lady Catherine's daughter who Sir Lewis de Bourgh got rid off because she wasn't a son he wanted.
After so many "Lady Catherine is stupid, deaf, vindictive" stories I've read, it was actually nice to see Lady Catherine being a somewhat sensible woman.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is first suspicious that Elizabeth is trying to wedge herself into a higher class, then immediately gets happy that she IS of a higher class (and therefore, fit to marry) and kisses her at first opportunity (not appropriate!).
From Elizabeth POV, it felt like Darcy was still very much the haughty impolite man, and he's only amiable to those who's close to him (aka the rich and upper classes). Yet she falls for him anyway? And almost immediately, too.
other than that, the story was just boring, so I'm DNFing at 60%.
Elizabeth is a foundling, adopted by the Bennets after their second child (a boy!) died and Mrs Bennet was close to dying of a broken heart. She comes to visit Mrs Collins, Lady Catherine sees similarity in her, turns out Elizabeth is Lady Catherine's daughter who Sir Lewis de Bourgh got rid off because she wasn't a son he wanted.
After so many "Lady Catherine is stupid, deaf, vindictive" stories I've read, it was actually nice to see Lady Catherine being a somewhat sensible woman.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is first suspicious that Elizabeth is trying to wedge herself into a higher class, then immediately gets happy that she IS of a higher class (and therefore, fit to marry) and kisses her at first opportunity (not appropriate!).
From Elizabeth POV, it felt like Darcy was still very much the haughty impolite man, and he's only amiable to those who's close to him (aka the rich and upper classes). Yet she falls for him anyway? And almost immediately, too.
other than that, the story was just boring, so I'm DNFing at 60%.
February 13, 2023
I love love love this story! ❤️❤️❤️
It's the type of feel-good, comfort reading I would readily recommend to anyone, not just JAFF fans.
The premise is a simple one:
Sir Lewis de Bourgh was a misogynistic, abusive villain who felt one daughter was more than enough, and thus orders the midwife to get rid of the second one. The midwife not being evil, the babe ends up at a London orphanage, and from there via Mr Gardiner with the Bennets. Because, Mrs Bennet suffering from a stillbirth at the time and everyone fearing she'll die of grief, it's felt a babe is the cure she needs. It turns out true.
And thus it is that Elizabeth grows up a Bennet, never having felt lesser despite being a foundling.
The actual plot of the story starts off during Elizabeth's Hunsford visit. Lady Catherine and Anne, having never given up looking for their lost family member, suspect Elizabeth might be it. Darcy is summoned, Mr Bennet written to, Lizzy questioned, and the lone keepsake from her infancy, a laced blanket, examined. Until everyone but Elizabeth is convinced that she's the missing baby girl. Elizabeth herself is later convinced when she's shown a portrait of her paternal grandmother.
Whatever initial misgivings Darcy and the Earl might have are quickly laid to rest, it's Lizzy herself who is resistant the longest.
The actual focus of the story is the reunion, the difficulties in becoming a family, and the fracas that emerges at times due to the de Bourgh ladies being jealous of Elizabeth's love for her Bennet family. But in the end they all, both the Bennets and the de Bourgh families, become one big family as they learn to appreciate one another.
And somewhere along the way, Darcy/Elizabeth romance happens, with Darcy's steadfast support and kindness making Elizabeth fall for him.
The part of that romance I found especially cute is that it's basically Elizabeth who proposes, and how that happens.
But the parts that I loved best, that are the reason I readily give this book 5/5 stars? It's the characterisations of everyone. No one is written in any way Out Of Character. Nor is anyone is villainised. (Aside from Sir Lewis, Wickham, and an OC de Bourgh relative with minimal screen time.) There is no melodrama.
Mr Bennet is a loving father, and loves his wife too, in his own way. Mrs Bennet is written as the loving mother she is, despite everything. The Bennet sisters show real love and caring for each other, even Lydia. Anne has a personality despite her uncertain health and is very much her mother's daughter. Lady Catherine is not a harridan, she is a no-nonsense, badass woman with a strong personality and strong ideas of female strength and male weakness. Even Mr Collins is harmless, though the poor man has his world upended when he finds out his cousin Elizabeth is a daughter of his noble patroness.
Lydia makes the mistake of eloping with Wickham, but she has reason to regret it, and finds a good mentor in Lady Catherine, who convinces Lydia to marry Wickham - not to be his wife, but to be his widow. It's a ruthlessness that turns Darcy's stomach and enforces Lady Catherine's belief of men being of a weak constitution. And frankly, we readers are on Lady Catherine's side in this matter. Why shackle Lydia to a worthless, abusive man for life?
Poor, poor Wickham dies on his wedding night at the hand of an anonymous fellow drunk he got into an argument with at the card table. So sad, too bad, and Lydia gets to go back to Longbourn as a "mourning" widow.
Lady Catherine herself, being barely 40, has a suitor - a man who has been in love with her for decades, and whose suit Elizabeth and Anne fully support.
It's pretty much all happy families in the end, even if it takes a while to get there.
So yes, it is very much a comfort reading to lift the spirits in times of sadness that needs to be in the collection of every JAFF reader.
It's the type of feel-good, comfort reading I would readily recommend to anyone, not just JAFF fans.
The premise is a simple one:
Sir Lewis de Bourgh was a misogynistic, abusive villain who felt one daughter was more than enough, and thus orders the midwife to get rid of the second one. The midwife not being evil, the babe ends up at a London orphanage, and from there via Mr Gardiner with the Bennets. Because, Mrs Bennet suffering from a stillbirth at the time and everyone fearing she'll die of grief, it's felt a babe is the cure she needs. It turns out true.
And thus it is that Elizabeth grows up a Bennet, never having felt lesser despite being a foundling.
The actual plot of the story starts off during Elizabeth's Hunsford visit. Lady Catherine and Anne, having never given up looking for their lost family member, suspect Elizabeth might be it. Darcy is summoned, Mr Bennet written to, Lizzy questioned, and the lone keepsake from her infancy, a laced blanket, examined. Until everyone but Elizabeth is convinced that she's the missing baby girl. Elizabeth herself is later convinced when she's shown a portrait of her paternal grandmother.
Whatever initial misgivings Darcy and the Earl might have are quickly laid to rest, it's Lizzy herself who is resistant the longest.
The actual focus of the story is the reunion, the difficulties in becoming a family, and the fracas that emerges at times due to the de Bourgh ladies being jealous of Elizabeth's love for her Bennet family. But in the end they all, both the Bennets and the de Bourgh families, become one big family as they learn to appreciate one another.
And somewhere along the way, Darcy/Elizabeth romance happens, with Darcy's steadfast support and kindness making Elizabeth fall for him.
The part of that romance I found especially cute is that it's basically Elizabeth who proposes, and how that happens.
But the parts that I loved best, that are the reason I readily give this book 5/5 stars? It's the characterisations of everyone. No one is written in any way Out Of Character. Nor is anyone is villainised. (Aside from Sir Lewis, Wickham, and an OC de Bourgh relative with minimal screen time.) There is no melodrama.
Mr Bennet is a loving father, and loves his wife too, in his own way. Mrs Bennet is written as the loving mother she is, despite everything. The Bennet sisters show real love and caring for each other, even Lydia. Anne has a personality despite her uncertain health and is very much her mother's daughter. Lady Catherine is not a harridan, she is a no-nonsense, badass woman with a strong personality and strong ideas of female strength and male weakness. Even Mr Collins is harmless, though the poor man has his world upended when he finds out his cousin Elizabeth is a daughter of his noble patroness.
Lydia makes the mistake of eloping with Wickham, but she has reason to regret it, and finds a good mentor in Lady Catherine, who convinces Lydia to marry Wickham - not to be his wife, but to be his widow. It's a ruthlessness that turns Darcy's stomach and enforces Lady Catherine's belief of men being of a weak constitution. And frankly, we readers are on Lady Catherine's side in this matter. Why shackle Lydia to a worthless, abusive man for life?
Poor, poor Wickham dies on his wedding night at the hand of an anonymous fellow drunk he got into an argument with at the card table. So sad, too bad, and Lydia gets to go back to Longbourn as a "mourning" widow.
Lady Catherine herself, being barely 40, has a suitor - a man who has been in love with her for decades, and whose suit Elizabeth and Anne fully support.
It's pretty much all happy families in the end, even if it takes a while to get there.
So yes, it is very much a comfort reading to lift the spirits in times of sadness that needs to be in the collection of every JAFF reader.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2024
So moving, so delightful
I am not a huge fan of "Elizabeth is not a Bennet" variations because they tend to be overly complicated and too easily become something so for from the original as to have only borrowed the names. I'm not excessively picky. The author's Dear Nameless Stranger picks up from the point just a few weeks after Kent in an entirely new direction and develops Kitty, Mary, and Lydia in ways I found both believable and wonderful. I thought perhaps this author might do the same with this variation. She far exceeded my expectations.
This is a story in which Mrs. Bennet is still excitable, but she loves her daughters, including the one brought to her upon the stillbirth of her son. With a going wife who was despondent, unwilling to eat, Mr. Bennet took the advice of the doctor and had a foundling brought to her from London by the Gardiners. With a baby who desperately needed her, she rallied. They remained as close as she was to her other daughters.
In this story, Sir Lewis de Bourgh is the villain, albeit an already deceased one. The discovery of Elizabeth by Lady Catherine happens very early on in the book.
The dialogue is a delight. There were numerous places where I laughed out loud, and others where I cried. I have highlighted some of those places and will have them show in the Goodreads version of this review.
I began reading this book as a sample, not entirely sure I wanted to pay just shy of $7 for the book, but when I get to the end of the sample, I couldn't hit buy now fast enough.
I will re-read this, and of published in audio, get it, too. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
I am not a huge fan of "Elizabeth is not a Bennet" variations because they tend to be overly complicated and too easily become something so for from the original as to have only borrowed the names. I'm not excessively picky. The author's Dear Nameless Stranger picks up from the point just a few weeks after Kent in an entirely new direction and develops Kitty, Mary, and Lydia in ways I found both believable and wonderful. I thought perhaps this author might do the same with this variation. She far exceeded my expectations.
This is a story in which Mrs. Bennet is still excitable, but she loves her daughters, including the one brought to her upon the stillbirth of her son. With a going wife who was despondent, unwilling to eat, Mr. Bennet took the advice of the doctor and had a foundling brought to her from London by the Gardiners. With a baby who desperately needed her, she rallied. They remained as close as she was to her other daughters.
In this story, Sir Lewis de Bourgh is the villain, albeit an already deceased one. The discovery of Elizabeth by Lady Catherine happens very early on in the book.
The dialogue is a delight. There were numerous places where I laughed out loud, and others where I cried. I have highlighted some of those places and will have them show in the Goodreads version of this review.
I began reading this book as a sample, not entirely sure I wanted to pay just shy of $7 for the book, but when I get to the end of the sample, I couldn't hit buy now fast enough.
I will re-read this, and of published in audio, get it, too. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
August 29, 2024
A Lady C that I LIKED!
This variation starts when Elizabeth visits Charlotte in Kent. Lady Catherine (is herself throughout the story - but you will love her) sees something about Elizabeth that "bugs" her and she demands to know what it is - thus a mystery starts to be solved.... You find out quickly that Elizabeth admits that she was adopted when Mrs Bennet lost her child in childbirth and was given another baby to help fight the blues; Mrs Bennet loves Elizabeth just like her other daughters. This is not a spoiler as Lady Catherine is convinced that Elizabeth is her own daughter who she was told died at childbirth but has questioned it for years. Elizabeth fights this possibility but realizes the truth and how she comes to grips with this new life and family. Her "new" sister Anne and her connect but it takes longer for Elizabeth and Lady Catherine to connect and it is beautiful when it happens naturally. Darcy is there for Elizabeth but they still have their arguments and it is fun seeing Darcy called on the carpet for a few things. I laughed lots! And you will be satisficed on how Lady Catherine takes charge on a very important matter later in the story. I loved how the ending was tied up in a wonderful way. Worth the read & listen to.
This variation starts when Elizabeth visits Charlotte in Kent. Lady Catherine (is herself throughout the story - but you will love her) sees something about Elizabeth that "bugs" her and she demands to know what it is - thus a mystery starts to be solved.... You find out quickly that Elizabeth admits that she was adopted when Mrs Bennet lost her child in childbirth and was given another baby to help fight the blues; Mrs Bennet loves Elizabeth just like her other daughters. This is not a spoiler as Lady Catherine is convinced that Elizabeth is her own daughter who she was told died at childbirth but has questioned it for years. Elizabeth fights this possibility but realizes the truth and how she comes to grips with this new life and family. Her "new" sister Anne and her connect but it takes longer for Elizabeth and Lady Catherine to connect and it is beautiful when it happens naturally. Darcy is there for Elizabeth but they still have their arguments and it is fun seeing Darcy called on the carpet for a few things. I laughed lots! And you will be satisficed on how Lady Catherine takes charge on a very important matter later in the story. I loved how the ending was tied up in a wonderful way. Worth the read & listen to.
March 30, 2024
4.5 stars
Review contain slight spoilers
I found this to a quite different variation in a good way.
Mr and Mrs Bennet have a loving marriage. Elizabeth is an orphan, which helped Mrs Bennet out of her tremendous grief over losing a son due to a very hard birth going wrong. The whole Bennet family loves her as their own.
Both Lady Catherine and Anne are likeable charcters and both they and Mr Darcy help Elizabeth discovering her roots.
It is a low angst story (which I tend to prefer) and very enjoyable story, that a highly recommend.
I heard the story as an audio and enjoyed the narrator. Not one I listened to before, but she also narrated the author story Mrs Gardiner takes charge.
Review contain slight spoilers
I found this to a quite different variation in a good way.
Mr and Mrs Bennet have a loving marriage. Elizabeth is an orphan, which helped Mrs Bennet out of her tremendous grief over losing a son due to a very hard birth going wrong. The whole Bennet family loves her as their own.
Both Lady Catherine and Anne are likeable charcters and both they and Mr Darcy help Elizabeth discovering her roots.
It is a low angst story (which I tend to prefer) and very enjoyable story, that a highly recommend.
I heard the story as an audio and enjoyed the narrator. Not one I listened to before, but she also narrated the author story Mrs Gardiner takes charge.
April 17, 2021
A joy to read
Absolutely wonderful story,with a very creative plot. Strong and witty dialogue and excellent character development. In an alternate universe, Elizabeth turns out to be the long-lost daughter of Lady Catherine. As we see our favorite characters adapt to a new reality, there is plenty of humor, a little angst, some sadness and regret, and lots of romance. A tribute to the joys of sisterhood, blended families, and the relatives we choose. Excellent, Austenesque writing combined with lovely editing keeps the story bright and fascinating. Now I have to go back and read it again!
Absolutely wonderful story,with a very creative plot. Strong and witty dialogue and excellent character development. In an alternate universe, Elizabeth turns out to be the long-lost daughter of Lady Catherine. As we see our favorite characters adapt to a new reality, there is plenty of humor, a little angst, some sadness and regret, and lots of romance. A tribute to the joys of sisterhood, blended families, and the relatives we choose. Excellent, Austenesque writing combined with lovely editing keeps the story bright and fascinating. Now I have to go back and read it again!
October 19, 2021
Not Far From The Tree is an appropriate title
Loved this book. The emotions and relationships of the parents, sisters and other family members are very well described and provide the message the author intended. Different readers will see somewhat different messages depending upon their current environment and situation. There are several questions that I had from the early chapters that were answered without specific attention being given to them.
The only remaining question would be Anne’s story. It was net even subtly answered in the epilogue.
Highly recommended to Austen fans as an interesting, unique, and fun perspective on Elizabeth and Lady Catherine.
Loved this book. The emotions and relationships of the parents, sisters and other family members are very well described and provide the message the author intended. Different readers will see somewhat different messages depending upon their current environment and situation. There are several questions that I had from the early chapters that were answered without specific attention being given to them.
The only remaining question would be Anne’s story. It was net even subtly answered in the epilogue.
Highly recommended to Austen fans as an interesting, unique, and fun perspective on Elizabeth and Lady Catherine.
July 29, 2022
This book was marvelous! The concept is that Elizabeth Bennett has known since she was a child that she was a founding, taken in by the Bennett and raised and loved as one of their own. But when Elizabeth visits Mr. and Mrs. Collins, she is shocked to learn Lady Catherine de Bourbon believes her to be her own second child who has been missing since birth. This scenario put an amazing spin on a most loved book.
The writing was so well done and the characters written with such depth. Lady Catherine was a favorite here, as was Mrs. Bennett. I know this will be a book to be read again and again!
The writing was so well done and the characters written with such depth. Lady Catherine was a favorite here, as was Mrs. Bennett. I know this will be a book to be read again and again!
April 6, 2021
Extraordinary book.
Pay no attention to those reviews that suggest this book was too long, or that certain split off plot lines were not fully brought around. Who cares? Ms. Jeannie Peneaux is a gifted author. She has that rare and great talent of understanding how to turn a phrase--cleverly and beautifully. The plot and characters are done to perfection, and she did all of this without leaning on angst to keep the reader interested. Her talent does not require that. I hated to see it end.
Pay no attention to those reviews that suggest this book was too long, or that certain split off plot lines were not fully brought around. Who cares? Ms. Jeannie Peneaux is a gifted author. She has that rare and great talent of understanding how to turn a phrase--cleverly and beautifully. The plot and characters are done to perfection, and she did all of this without leaning on angst to keep the reader interested. Her talent does not require that. I hated to see it end.
July 26, 2024
disappointed
In these times, money is scarce and I am sick of paying so much for books that are not at all interesting. I skipped many pages as the story tended to ramble on so much about everyday things. The characters are not as they are usually portrayed. Particularly, Catherine De Berg (sp?). The book ended so upruptly, that I was confused. No wedding. It went on and on about frivolous things but there was no mention of Darcy and Elizabeth’s wedding. Do not waste your money. Longer does not mean better.
In these times, money is scarce and I am sick of paying so much for books that are not at all interesting. I skipped many pages as the story tended to ramble on so much about everyday things. The characters are not as they are usually portrayed. Particularly, Catherine De Berg (sp?). The book ended so upruptly, that I was confused. No wedding. It went on and on about frivolous things but there was no mention of Darcy and Elizabeth’s wedding. Do not waste your money. Longer does not mean better.
January 17, 2021
I love redemptive Lady C stories
I loved this relatively angst free tale. I loved Anne and Lady Catherine.... And I loved the harmony of relationships. Probably my favorite Lady Catherine.
I might have liked more details on what happened with LdB. But overall, I loved it. A happy ending for everyone.... Well everyone except Wickham and deBourgh.
I loved this relatively angst free tale. I loved Anne and Lady Catherine.... And I loved the harmony of relationships. Probably my favorite Lady Catherine.
I might have liked more details on what happened with LdB. But overall, I loved it. A happy ending for everyone.... Well everyone except Wickham and deBourgh.
January 17, 2021
Unusual
A clever idea for a different back ground for Elizabeth, well told although a little long, could have done with a little thinning? The exploration of Lady Catherine and of Anne de Bourgh are captivating. I have purchased this after reading on KU so that tells you enough of my esteem. Look forward to more from this author.
A clever idea for a different back ground for Elizabeth, well told although a little long, could have done with a little thinning? The exploration of Lady Catherine and of Anne de Bourgh are captivating. I have purchased this after reading on KU so that tells you enough of my esteem. Look forward to more from this author.
January 27, 2021
A long glorious variation
Elizabeth is the second daughter of Lady Catherine, whisked away to an orphanage. by the midwife, rather than killed as ordered by Sir Lewis after her disappointing birth Wonderfully developed characters that display human frailties as opposed to the perfect characters that many writers give us.
Elizabeth is the second daughter of Lady Catherine, whisked away to an orphanage. by the midwife, rather than killed as ordered by Sir Lewis after her disappointing birth Wonderfully developed characters that display human frailties as opposed to the perfect characters that many writers give us.
January 22, 2024
interesting variation
Elizabeth is not a Bennett but a de Bourgh!!! Not what I thought would make a good story. However it surprises me. The reason for 4 stars is chemistry between Darcy and Elizabeth was forced. I had a hard time with cousins marrying.
I do recommend this sweet and clean variation.
Elizabeth is not a Bennett but a de Bourgh!!! Not what I thought would make a good story. However it surprises me. The reason for 4 stars is chemistry between Darcy and Elizabeth was forced. I had a hard time with cousins marrying.
I do recommend this sweet and clean variation.
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