The Year in Between: A Sense and Sensibility Variation

by Christina Morland

Marianne Dashwood was "born to an extraordinary fate...to discover the falsehood of her own opinions, and to counteract, by her conduct, her most favorite maxims" (Jane Austen, Sense and Sensibility). After Willoughby's betrayal, how did Marianne learn to see Colonel Brandon--and herself--in a new light? And how did Elinor Dashwood and Edward Ferrars fare during their first year of marriage?

The Year in Between explores the untold year in the last chapter of Sense and Sensibility. Whether you know Austen's novel well, or this is your first introduction to Elinor, Marianne, Edward, and Brandon, I invite you to visit Delaford, where friendship, love, and all the challenges that come with these gifts abound.

Please note: The Year in Between is a novel that I hope affirms the beauty of love, community, friendship, and family. However, there is at least one storyline that may cause distress in readers who have experienced loss. (There are no graphic descriptions of violence or sex in this novel, if those are areas of concern for you.) If you would like specific details before continuing to read, please visit my author biography on Amazon or the Author's Note in the opening pages of this book. A link to more information is included in both locations.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Historical Romance, British Literature, Regency, Novels

776 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 23, 2021

About the author

Christina Morland spent the first two decades of her life with no knowledge whatsoever of Pride and Prejudice -- or any Jane Austen novel, for that matter. She somehow overcame this childhood adversity and became a devoted fan of Ms. Austen's works. Morland has written three Pride and Prejudice variations and contributed two short stories to JAFF anthologies. She is currently working on a Sense and Sensibility sequel and hopes one day to write a Persuasion variation, as well as a fantasy novel that has (almost) nothing to do with Jane Austen.

When not writing, Morland tries to keep up with her incredibly active daughter and maddeningly brilliant husband. She lives in a place not unlike Hogwarts (minus Harry, Dumbledore, magic, and Scotland), and likes to think of herself as an excellent walker.

A note on how I review books: my goal is to find something to celebrate in whatever book I’ve chosen to review on Goodreads. This does not mean that I love all books equally or that I’m not cognizant of a book’s flaws. (I’m certainly aware of my own books’ flaws—or some of those flaws, at any rate!)

I find it most useful, as an author, to ask not just, “Did I like this book?” but also, “What do I think was this author’s goal, and how did s/he set out to accomplish that goal?”

A quick summary of a five-star rating for me: I found the book to be beautifully written; it bent or broke some "rule" within the genre, and did so well; and the book impacted me emotionally and intellectually.

If you would like to discuss my reviews or any other book-related topic, feel free to contact me. Thanks!

Reviews

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

At the end of Jane Austen’s Sense & Sensibility after the last vestiges of the book’s main conflicts, the reader is met with a less than meticulous summation that closes out the book. For those who fell in love with the Dashwood family and their friends- even and, perhaps, especially their not-so friends, there is a feeling of dissatisfaction about the wrap-up. Happily, there was the release of this in-depth and layered exploration of that time in the summation that will draw a sigh of satisfaction from eager readers.

The Year In Between opens at the time of Elinor Dashwood’s marriage to Edward Ferrars and their preparations to leave Barton Cottage for Delaford and the parish there from the perspective of Marianne. Marianne’s health is restored though she still struggles with the vestiges of a heart broken by John Willoughby. She is determined to do better, but her loss of capable Elinor leaves her for the first time the roll of eldest sister of the Dashwood house and the responsibilities that come with it. Her personal observations are shared with her journal as are her connection with poetry, nature, and music. She is eager to visit her sister and new brother at Delaford, but is oddly reluctant and even irritated to encounter Delaford’s master.
Colonel Brandon has been generous and good, understanding even, to her family, but she is bewildered why he turns into a poker when it comes to her. In the past, she wronged him greatly with her silly and cruel jokes at his expense and her rudeness while she pursued folly with Willoughby, but now the taciturn man fascinates her- even when she resists being fascinated. Who is the man? Her character is open and his is far from that though his actions show him to be honorable and noble even a man who has sensibilities toward music and nature that match her own. Marianne is determined to get under the man’s skin, but doesn’t want to closely analyze why.

Meanwhile, Elinor is settling into married life at the vicarage near Delaford village and the main house. Love is strong and so much more than she could ever imagine. Her usual rationality and steadiness go out the window when she faces strained finances, a haughty and hurtful family of in-laws, the possibility of being with child, stirring up in the village when the Colonel’s ward and her illegitimate son move into one of the cottages, and a husband who is struggling to not give into his fears about her health or his feelings of inadequacy. Elinor has to adjust and somehow find a way through it all even while she doesn’t miss the interesting situation between her sister and the Colonel. Never having fully understood how Edward’s treatment from his family has deeply wounded him and worked upon him so he doesn’t see his own worth, she realizes being his helpmeet is complicated and full of pitfalls that require all her love and wisdom to fathom how to respond and care for her fledgling marriage.

Over a year of happenings the Dashwood sisters grow as women, as family, and in love facing the challenges life has thrown at them.

As this book is quite page heavy, I chose to summarize a fraction of the plot and did not even introduce the large cast of players in the story. I feel that the reader should delight in the discovery of so many colorful and intriguing familiar faces from Austen’s tale, but especially the author’s own original characters that enrich the cast so much.

One of the blessings of a large page count is the ability to delve so deeply into characters particularly the two oldest Dashwood sisters and tease out all the nuances of their story. There are plenty of everyday moments scattered amongst the times of greater tension and conflict that advance the reader’s knowledge of the characters. In both Elinor and Marianne’s cases, their maturing as women are accented as they face the challenge of handling domestic matters to facing private pain and grief. And beside the character-driven aspects of the plot are also the development of the relationships romantically and familial, friends, and more.

I enjoyed how the sisters are at two different places in their lives so I got a slow-burn courtship of two damaged people who painfully find their way to an understanding and the life after the wedding for another pair who learn what it means to be in love and married. The author showed the foibles as well as strengths so I was delighted by both pairs.

I love this story that was dominated by domesticity and relationships making it a fabulous homage to the original. There are several moments when I burst out laughing or saw the humor in a situation, but this was balanced with times I sorrowed with the characters, too. The characters were distinct and complex and there was carryover from Austen’s story so that the connection between the original and the new felt seamless. I had a few moments when I did get impatient for the story to pick up the pace. The historical background, dialogue, and characters feel organic to the story and the time. The author graciously offers an after note about research and some choices of minor liberties to further the story.

And so, I delved deeply into the world of Sense and Sensibility and was utterly enchanted by the time I spent with Marianne and Elinor. Those who have read or at least watched the movie adaptions of Austen’s tale will probably have the fullest appreciation for this story. A sweet historical fiction/romance crossover that shines with gentle pace and heartwarming tone that I can recommend


My full review will appear at Austenprose on March 22nd.

[J. W. Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Can I just say WOW!

Rating: MA: PG17: adult themes and discussions that might be a bit much for a young reader. Trigger warnings for those who have experienced loss [ex: miscarriage or stillborn]. Angst Level: medium: as our characters deal with grief both for lost love and disappointed hopes. Stressors over family dynamics and struggle for control. Source: KU [5-20-21]
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** Spoilers ***

“… year in between heartbreak and healing…” Quote from the book

This was a long, Long, LONG story so be sure to set aside plenty of time to read it. This was a journey, not a sprint. There were so many threads/aspects in this story to follow that it was hard to absorb it all. I found myself still thinking about it and the characters days later.

We had the marriage of Elinor and Edward Ferrars and their adjusting to married life. Colonel Brandon had given Edward the living that was in his gift. The parsonage was located within a mile of Brandon and they could easily walk to the manor house when needed. We spent a lot of time between the two establishments, especially when Marianne was visiting Elinor.

“Sister. She is your mirror, shining back at you with a world of possibilities. She is your witness, who sees you at your worst and best, and loves you anyway. She is your partner in crime, your midnight companion, someone who knows when you are smiling, even in the dark. She is your teacher, your defense attorney, your personal press agent, even your shrink. Some days, she’s the reason you wish you were an only child.” –Barbara Alpert

Elinor and Marianne: Elinor and Edward moved to the parsonage in the living provided by Colonel Brandon after renovations had been made. This separation of the sisters was especially difficult for Marianne as she had always had Elinor nearby. There were several story threads running throughout this story. On one thread we had Elinor adjusting to married life with Edward, being a vicar’s wife, helping the people in the village, and learning her duties within the parish and church. Then we had Marianne finally growing up and learning what it was to truly be in love and not holding on to those romantic fantasies that nearly killed her the year before.

Edward’s family, OMG, his family was horrid. What a bunch of selfish, self-centered, self-serving, narcissistic, money-hungry … well you get the picture. Their toxic influence was unrelenting as they harassed the newlyweds who struggled as they came to grips with their demands. I was amazed at the machinations of Edward’s sister Fanny Dashwood and sister-in-law Lucy Farrars. OMG! What a circus with those two ladies trying to outdo each other for attention and profit. Fanny and Lucy had Edward’s inheritance [from his father] in their sites and were doing everything they could to gain the upper hand. They were not above using subterfuge in order to get what they wanted. They were horrid but it was hilarious watching Fanny and Lucy go head-to-head as they tried to outdo each other and gain the approbation of Mrs. Ferrars [a tough cookie on a good day].

Eliza vs Marianne: There was a strong comparison between Willoughby’s relationship with Eliza Williams and Marianne. There were so many similarities but also so much that was different. At a dinner party [where he was a bit drunk] he actually admitted to why he seduced Eliza and not Marianne. I never thought of it in that light. Even though he was honest… I couldn’t help but think what a sleaze. You could feel the spider in him still attempting to lure her into his web. He simply could not help himself. The author was very creative in shining a light on his hypocrisy. He also attempted to paint Marianne with the same brush that he painted himself. She was shocked by the comparison and soon realized that she was no longer that person. That was well done. She also realized where her heart truly belonged.

Colonel Brandon: as much as I loved the late Alan Rickman, I couldn’t help but picture David Morrissey [2008 movie] as I read this story. When Marianne collapsed at the ball, he gave Willoughby a hard look. Willoughby knew at that moment he’d be hearing from him. The next scene was the duel. Brandon had such a disgusted expression as he faced the man who had ruined his young ward Eliza Williams and broke the heart of Miss Marianne Dashwood. Oh, he was so good in that movie. The Brandon featured in this story was just as wonderful. He tried valiantly to not love her but couldn’t help himself. I felt for him. His life had been so hard and we learned so many things about the background story prior to the S&S storyline.

Comedic relief was provided by: Mrs. Jennings, Sir John Middleton, a new character the widow Mrs. Whitmire, and Mr. Beaumont. La! They gave me a headache just listening to them. I have left out so much; however, this story will leave you thinking long after having read it. Whew! I recommend this for a new look into that year in between in the Sense & Sensibility story.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Morland has a remarkable gift for capturing the essence of life. Her characters feel like living, breathing people. While I've noticed that quality in her previous books, it's especially true in this one.

That's a very good thing, because the book is essentially a character study of Elinor Ferrars and her sister, Marianne Dashwood, during a transitional year for the sisters. Elinor faces challenges as a wife that bring her emotions to the fore, while Marianne aims to become more sensible.

Ms. Morland develops those two ladies to perfection, and every single one of the supporting players is equally pitch-perfect, three-dimensional, and distinct from the others. Margaret still isn't old enough to understand all the social niceties (those she does understand she thinks are stupid), and so she blurts out wonderfully innocent statements and questions at awkward moments. Mrs. Jennings may be well-intentioned, but it's clear how her little smirks and winks and inappropriate observations would rub Marianne's sensibilities wrong. Mr. Palmer, a character who appropriately remains far in the background, rarely speaks; when he does, it's with just the right touch of drollery. Even Mrs. Carter (the cook) and Tilly (the housemaid) at the parsonage have memorable Heyer-esque personalities.

The story isn't as melodramatic as Jane Austen's but finds plenty of angst in more ordinary problems of the era. Edward adores his new wife but suffers tremendous guilt because he can't provide a better life for her, refusing to see how Elinor relishes her role as the wife of a simple clergyman. Over Elinor's objections, he panders to his ever-disapproving mother in order to secure an inheritance that, legally, she shouldn't be able to withhold from him.

While I hate to put a spoiler in this review, I think it's important to issue a trigger warning here: the couple suffers the loss of their unborn child, and it's an extremely gut-wrenching section of the book. Anyone who's had a miscarriage will be able to relate, but it may be too much for some to handle.

As for Marianne, she still has conflicting emotions about Willoughby, and she has to confront them when Colonel Brandon brings his scandalously unwed ward, Eliza Williams, to Delaford, along with her child. Marianne meets Eliza, seeking her out first due to curiosity and gradually warming to become a true friend to both mother and child. Eliza is aware that Marianne also had a lost love, but Marianne avoids sharing that he's the same man who ruined Eliza and that he was courting both ladies simultaneously.

It's the relationship between Marianne and Brandon that intrigued me the most, probably because I've always had trouble seeing them as a successful match in Jane Austen's book. Colonel Brandon's character is fleshed out beautifully here. He encourages Marianne's flights of fancy. Most interestingly, there are occasional glimpses proving that he's also a creative, sensitive soul - enough to show that the pair IS well suited to each other. I enjoy the emotional journey Marianne takes to realize she loves him, helped along by a strong dose of jealousy when a certain Mrs. Whitmire enters the book.

Ms. Morland's writing is flowing and emotive, sweeping the reader completely into the story. The various plots and subplots weave through and around each other throughout the book, with a definite build toward climactic moments for both Elinor and Marianne. There are some changes from canon to fit the timeline here but nothing of significance. This is a very long book, which gives you that many more hours of reading pleasure.

Highly recommend! There is adult content showing passionate love between a married couple.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A historical classic, “Sense & Sensibility” is one of Jane Austen’s best, representing a deeper appreciation of the intensity of her heroines, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, as they experience love, romance, and heartbreak. Author Christina Morland’s “The Year in Between” reveals the untold year in the last chapter of “Sense & Sensibility”, but it does much more. It is also a saga of sisters, expanded families, as well as a philosophical exposition on society, the classes, and power exchange from money and marriage, delivered by their two distinct voices:
"A ghost. That is what he is. A ghost who stands in the doorways, making it impossible for me to remember what I had meant to write." –Marianne Dashwood, pp. 20
"If Edward returns from the village before I have a chance to wipe flour from my hands and hair, he will no doubt take on that look of gloom that has settled over him anytime he sees me at work in the house. He is still under the misapprehension that he has married a fine lady; I can only hope he will not be disappointed to find himself with a mediocre housewife instead." –Elinor Ferrars, pp. 64

The continuation of “Sense & Sensibility” comes alive through the eyes of Marianne Dashwood and her older sister Elinor Dashwood Ferrars, as each heroine struggles under societal rules and financial worries while each learns to love in her next chapter of life and take hold of her own power. If you want epic, Morland certainly delivers with her dense, thoughtful prose. With incredibly in-depth research into the Regency era and Austen’s first published novel, Morland crafts a story that is equal parts brilliant fiction, gut wrenching loss, tantalizing romance, while deeply entrenched in themes from the original masterpiece. “I do not know if God listened—if God ever listens. Sometimes I believe so—and other times, I think my prayers are nothing but words in the wind.”—Edward Ferrars, pp. 453

Morland is known for incredible storytelling ability, and this novel unfolds through a series of heartbreaking, heartwarming, heart-pounding diary entries, secret letters, unwelcome correspondence, household ledgers and lists, and exceptional dialogue. (Warning: smolder alert anytime Colonel Brandon is on the page.) Also, I know the tendency is to often skim through Austenesque novels because you already know the story; in this case, I would not recommend it! Not a thoughtless word written, each well-intended without appearing so. This sumptuous and wholly original story (at 715 pages) kept me turning pages for four nights straight, well into the wee hours of the morning. Provocative. Elegant. Swoon worthy. I predict “The Year in Between” makes many “Best of Lists” for 2021.

[Meredith (Austenesque Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Gloriously Gratifying Augmentation of Sense and Sensibility

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Source: Gift from Author

TYPE OF NOVEL: Variation/Sequel (or Augmentation) of Sense and Sensibility

THE PREMISE: Readers who are slightly dissatisfied with Jane Austen’s summarized conclusion for the Dashwood sisters and their friends can discover what did happen in between the time of Elinor and Edward becoming engaged and Marianne and Brandon eventually sealing their own happy fate…

MY THOUGHTS:

I do not think I have the words to describe how indescribably brilliant this work is! It is everything I could have hoped for, wanted, expected, and more. The Year In Between is a reverent and introspective extension of Sense and Sensibility‘s conclusion that illustrates Elinor and Edward adapting to married life and their new respective roles, Marianne’s progress with healing from her tragic heartbreak and self-improvement, Colonel Brandon’s struggle with his resolve to remain impartial around Marianne, and the return of provocative and potent characters such as Eliza Williams, Mrs. Ferrars, and John Willoughby, as well as the re-encountering of dear friends like Mrs. Jennings, the Middletons, and the Palmers.

I deeply loved every facet of this story – but I especially loved the multiple storylines and compelling relationships, conflicts, and developments Ms. Morland crafted together for her tale. Not only is each storyline thoughtfully-composed and captivating – but each inherently follows the foundation Jane Austen laid for these characters, while at the same time expands these characters’ personalities and natures to new dimensions.

This is very evident in Elinor’s and Edward’s individual and joint storylines. I have often felt Edward doesn’t deserve Elinor, and that compared to other Austen men he is bottom-ranking. But boy, did I approve and exceedingly like him in this tale! His struggles with guilt and pain earned my compassion, and I loved seeing his fierce protection and responsibility towards Elinor. Their delightful married banter, joy, and Edward’s adorably self-deprecating and cheeky sense of humor was such a pleasure to witness. The lighter moments of their natures and marriage beautifully balanced out the dark, stressful, and painful times they faced together (NOTE: this storyline may be distressful to some).

The storyline that I was most eager to see and that I greedily devoured every sentence of was Colonel Brandon’s and Marianne’s. Marianne’s mission to improve and grow deeply resonated with me in so many ways. I loved the realistic portrayal of her journey and all the honest moments where she felt she slipped and doubted making any progress. And, Colonel Brandon….oh-my-word! This might incite some vehement disbelief and discord, but I am now firmly convinced that Colonel Brandon is the quintessential romantic hero. Move over, Mr. Darcy, Edward Rochester, and Mr. Thornton – Colonel Brandon epitomizes the swoon-worthy hero and I could barely handle it. Seriously. I don’t think I could love his character any more. His selflessness and compassion were already clearly displayed in S&S, but in this story we are privy to the man beneath the controlled veneer – we learn of the deep wounds, the denial, and the vulnerability. I loved the depth and fullness of his character, and I truly do feel he has ruined me for all other fictional heroes!

There is so much I have yet to mention about this exceptional work – all the meticulous details and thoughtful touches (author notes, references, character descriptions), all the engaging and likable servants as tertiary characters, all the revealing journal entries and the notes – ah! Lyra and Prometheus…! Like Mrs. Palmer, I could go on and on, but suffice to say I will apply this quote instead: “I am delighted with the book! I should like to spend my whole life in reading it.”

The Year In Between is a penetrating and profound Sense and Sensibility variation that brings readers home to Delaford and augments the lives of these characters and friends which we hold so dear. Christina Morland’s sensitive tone, sincere voice, and stirring prose, all shine spectacularly in this encompassing tale of family, life, growth, and self-acceptance. I most heartily recommend.

Austenesque Reviews

[Abigail Bok · Rating 5 out of 5]

Readers of Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility often feel a trifle disappointed by the resolution of the secondary story, as the headstrong, passionate Marianne Dashwood ends up marrying a much older man, Colonel Brandon. Some even feel let down by the resolution of the primary story, with Elinor Dashwood marrying the man she loves, Edward Ferrars, whom some find to be a mopey dog. Luckily for those readers, Christina Morland has set out to rescue them from their dissatisfactions and she brilliantly succeeds, even with this notorious Marianne-hater.

The Year in Between begins with Elinor’s marriage and ends with Marianne’s, and along the way it leads us to a far deeper and richer understanding of these characters and why they love as they do. Morland understands that life’s moments of greatest profundity lie nestled in the mundane, and on every page she gives the mundane every bit of its due. The two main heroines, as well as their heroes, are brought to life in vibrant, loving detail; their thoughts and feelings are treated with the true respect owed to any multidimensional human being. The result is a story of small events that feels like it embraces the whole world.

All the central characters have much to learn, about themselves and the ones they love, so they fumble and make mistakes and draw erroneous conclusions and get in their own way, as people who love generally do. The pain of their past experiences informs their decision making as they vacillate between fear and hope, timidity and courage, and grope toward peace. The men are if anything more scarred than the women; in one of her many lines of pointed insight, Morland says of Marianne and Brandon, “She wondered how many pieces of his past she would learn in this fashion—quiet revelations, tucked into happier moments to blunt the pain.” She seems to understand that safe havens are not places to rest in but places where the unspeakable can begin to be faced. Her characters face tragedy and are honed by it. For her wisdom I felt gratitude every day I was reading this book.

She has other, lesser gifts to appreciate—credible dialogue enriched with ideas; deep research into the manners and mores of the period she’s writing about (even when she violates the rules she does it purposefully); action driven organically by the interaction of personalities; strong peripheral characters. Eliza Williams was especially a revelation to me, her character so strongly shaped by her life experiences, and that character so seamlessly driving her storyline and having its impact on others. If the author and I differ occasionally on details of language and behavior, her choices earned my respect if not my full concurrence: she is, after all, writing a story about the past in the modern day, for modern readers.

This book moved me, it kept me absorbed over all its 655 pages, and in the end I was both satisfied and sorry to leave it behind. It is a remarkable achievement.

[Carole (in Canada) · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+++++

Superb!

In 'The Year in Between' we are gifted with a remarkable rendering of what could have happened at the end of 'Sense & Sensibility' by Jane Austen. For we never get to see how or why Marianne Dashwood comes to fall in love with Colonel Brandon nor what the first year of married life was like for Elinor (Dashwood) and Edward Ferrars at Delaford parsonage. We are also given insight into familiar and original characters created by Ms. Morland that added further depth to this story. Each time I had to put the book down to attend to real life, I felt I was returning to visit dear friends.

"Elinor has been the earth to us - solid, warm, life-giving - while we are naught but clouds - unfixed, transient, a mere show of substance." (quote from the book)

I've said before, Ms Morland vividly depicts the realities of life and of the times. She has an incredible ability to understand these characters making them very three dimensional, and bringing them to life right before my eyes. This one year in between shows the marriage, challenges and love of Elinor and Edward Ferrars as well as Marianne's coming to terms with her own fallibility, strengths and heartbreak. It is beautifully and evocatively portrayed...love, loss, grief, laughter, greed, spite, selfishness, heartbreak and resolution.

"His sermon was another form of poetry - a struggle, with each imperfect word, to make meaning out of the madness of grief. It was also an act of faith - not zealous conviction or dogmatic belief, but an uncertain hope that he might, through his pain, help others." (quote from the book)

The journey of these two sisters, and those that love them, is insightful and moving. There are Marianne's journal entries that depict her hopes, determinations and resolutions; there are Elinor's Memorandum Book full of notes and attempts to make their income go further; and there are letters...and if you love, Captain Wentworth's and Mr Darcy's letters...let's just say that Colonel Brandon can give them a run for their money!

"She was not a child, not by any means. Her mind and body had both taken on all the capabilities of womanhood, but her soul - well, perhaps it would always hold on to that youthful capacity for experiencing every sensation, every emotion as deeply as if she had never experienced them before...Though this quality sometimes hampered Marianne's capability for recognizing how she affected the people around her, it also made her compassion for others all the more sincere." (quote from the book)

Human nature is no different now in how we each make it through our days and learning to take ownership of one's actions. In one word, this novel is about 'Life'. It is beautiful, poignant, heartbreaking and rewarding. It may be a long book, but it never felt long in the reading. Not once did I feel it was bogged down. The various threads that are woven throughout this story come together seamlessly, culminating in an ending that was so much more than satisfying...it was brilliant!

[Colleen Cowley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the book I really, really needed.

Here's some backstory mixed with disclosure: I was a beta reader for this novel, so I very luckily got to read it early—getting it in batches of chapters in 2020, like wonderful gifts that couldn't have been better timed. With every batch, I'd disappear into this absorbing world, forgetting about the pandemic and every other stressful thing.

It's an intriguing look at what Sense and Sensibility practically yada-yada-yaddas over: How did Marianne go, in a single year, from heartbroken and certain that she would never love again to marrying a man she’d overlooked? And what trials face steady Elinor (whose mother-in-law was so set against her) in that first year of her own marriage?

I laughed, I cried, I huffed in indignation at Mrs. Ferrars and I was so grateful to escape 2020 for a while. The Year in Between has its sorrows, not all of them related to mothers-in-law, but the love between the major characters (romantic, sisterly and otherwise) is so splendid that even the sad parts have their deep consolations. It’s a joy, for instance, to watch Elinor and Edward in a happy marriage – not a faultless relationship, but truly happy (and still compelling, which is no easy feat).

I’m an Elinor partisan and admit that I have, once or twice, rolled my eyes at Marianne in Sense and Sensibility. It was a pleasant surprise to really enjoy getting her perspective here and watching her struggle to remake herself. At the start of the book, she’s as much heartbroken over the loss of her ideals and her sense of self as she is over Willoughby, and she tries to take her sensible sister as a model—even as her sensible sister finds that sensibility is, sometimes, impossible to keep at bay.

Anyway: Here we are in 2021, and I really need this book again. I’m guessing a lot of other people could use its charms, too.

[Ree · Rating 5 out of 5]

A New Appreciation
For a brilliant review of this book, see Christina Boyd’s review. I can’t describe it better.

What I will say is this book has given me a new appreciation for Sense and Sensibility. When listing Austen favourites, S&S ranks only third for me. I never could quite warm up to the characters, except for maybe Colonel Brandon and Elinor. Marianne often made my eyes roll, and Edward was too weak. In Christina Morland’s variation, however, I found a completely new appreciation for all the main protagonists, especially Marianne and Edward. In a compelling and often moving story, Morland provides the reader a more in-depth look into their lives and personalities, opening up my heart to them and appreciating the personal struggles within themselves they each faced. Her portrayals of all the secondary characters is also well done, also giving Eliza a larger role.

The book is long at 715 pages and slowly unfolds somewhat, but never boring as it pulls you in from the beginning and carries you through the pages of a superbly-written novel. The dialogue throughout is exceptional. As with all of Christina Morland’s books, I most highly recommend this one. The Author’s Note and References were also informative and appreciated.

[wosedwew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every day a thread makes a skein in the year. ~ Dutch Proverb

In 1995 Sense & Sensibility, we see a double wedding of the Dashwood sisters. In the 2008 version, Marianne and the Colonel have reached a betrothal even before Edward and Elinor.

That was the way the directors of those movies saw the ending. It was not Jane Austen’s way.

For readers like me who have seen the movies much more recently than they have read the book, Christina Morland included an Author’s Note at the beginning to point out that in canon S&S, there is a year between the wedding of Elinor and Edward Ferrars and the wedding of Marianne and Colonel Brandon.

Time heals all wounds and wounds all heels. ~ Author Unknown, attributed to Groucho Marx, Fanny Brice, and others

“The Year In Between” begins with Marianne Dashwood’s journal entries declaring her continued love for the undeserving John Willoughby. The romantic Marianne struggles throughout with her knowledge of Willoughby’s character and her conflicted feelings.

What will happen when she meets Eliza Williams, the mother of Willoughby’s illegitimate son? Can she befriend the unhappy young woman?

Edward and Elinor struggle to survive their first year of marriage, and not just the usual newlywed “period of adjustment.” Estrangement from Edward’s mother stresses both and impoverishes them. Then, they must face a tragedy. Can their marriage remain strong?

As if you could kill time without injuring eternity. ~ Henry David Thoreau

I always love an author who can create word pictures. Christina Morland is a master of the craft.

Marianne stopped in the doorway, struck by the beauty of this moment: sunlight streaming through the window, highlighting motes of dust that looked to Marianne like enchanted fairies, dancing their way to the well-polished floor; Margaret, exclaiming over the delicious scent of the buns as she poured tea for everyone; and Mrs. Dashwood, appearing so cozy in the armchair nearest the unlit hearth that a stranger might have thought she called Delaford home.

How could she reconcile these two Edwards—the man who embraced the life they had chosen together, and this bitter son who held on to the last vestiges of his birthright with a stubbornness she had never expected?

“Do not bring up the Welds, Elinor. You are not Tabitha Weld, the daughter of a tenant farmer. You are Elinor Ferrars, the daughter of a gentleman, lately of Norland Park. It is dishonest to pretend there are not differences between you. You were not raised for this life!”
He stopped, closed his eyes, and drew in a deep breath. “I was not raised for this life.”

“The Year In Between” is a long book about changes over time. It was worth my time. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys JAFF.

You must have been warned against letting the golden hours slip by; but some of them are golden only because we let them slip by. ~ J.M. Barrie

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I *finally* finished this book and just in time! Whew, this was a long one but I enjoyed it so much. Although it is very obviously Morland and not Austen writing this, I didn’t mind especially with some scenes (if you know what I mean 😉). Marianne & Brandon finally got their side of the story and wow the chemistry! 🔥 This was my first finished indie-pubbed book. I will say I think this story was far too long, some additional editing could’ve sinched this up to a 400 page story probably but other than that, absolutely delightful and finally another Austen retelling I can recommend now! Yay!

[Alexandra Rivers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could say The Year In Between is hands down the best Sense & Sensibility variation I’ve ever read but it’d be meaningless since you don’t know how many--they are lot!-- Sense & Sensibility variations I’ve read so I’ll try to explain myself:

If you like a study in characters and well-crafted psychological portraits that fill in the gaps Austen herself created in Sense & Sensibility, this is the book for you!

Of course, it’s an interpretation, a women’s fiction with a guaranteed HEA, addressing issues that would interest a 21st cent reader. So, servants are not obscure creatures somewhere in the background, delighted to clean and serve, with no thoughts or talents or prejudices of their own.
Edward Ferrars himself and therefore Elinor are struggling with financial problems in a world where they’d like to be wealthier but they know they are certainly not the most unfortunate.
Still, the social comment, the analogy to what many of us may feel nowadays never feels didactic or preachy. After all, even Edward hates preaching and it’s part of his job. :-P
In that, The Year In Between is a fine example of a historical novel appearing so relevant to 21st cent readers (it’d be dull otherwise) without losing anything of the sense of the era.
At the same time, the relationships inside the family, loss and dealing with grief, coming of age are only some of the matters addressed in the book.

So it’s women’s fiction at its best, where women, their doubts, their strengths but also their differences in behavior and character are celebrated (something I cannot claim for Austen who uses the double Elizas’ case and partly Marianne’s, too, as a cautionary tale.)

In The Year In Between we have a good dose of girl power and even though in the beginning Marianne grieves the loss of her love as she pictured it, she’s intelligent enough to analyze herself and Willoughby, to analyze her feelings and not idolize them as we see in some interpretations (even the movie…)
In that approach The Year In Between is a fine Young Adult novel where Marianne’s coming-of-age adventure is so very real and familiar to everyone who loved love and being in love as a teenager.

And then, last but certainly not least…the book is a Romance!

That is you can forgive Elinor’s direct glance at life and her bravery to fall in love with a man who is not necessarily as strong as she is. Edward Ferrars may not be the typical Alpha Male but that doesn’t make him any less complex or interesting.
And then there’s the glorious part of Marianne and Colonel Brandon.

Austen often offers love tainted by gratitude (Darcy saves Elizabeth’s family.) In Sense & Sensibility gratitude almost drowns everything, having Colonel Brandon be responsible both for Edward‘s livelihood AND bringing Marianne‘s mother to her. Whatever happens next in Sense & Sensibility seems like gratitude and compromise. Morland knows that, dissects it in little pieces, and then uses them as the foundation to build something so…darn delicious. (Keywords: Lyra and Prometheus.)
At times, I felt the writer lived in Marianne’s skin, actually living in the mind of a girl who fell in love with Willoughby (that cad!) and then loved another man (I wonder if that was considered as possible by Austen--falling in love with a man after the first unlucky love attempt…)

Anyway, if you like Marianne Dashwood the way I do, not feeling that her passion and spontaneity is a character trait to be leashed by society and punished by Fate and Life (even though she has to grow up a little and leave some of her fanciful, absurdly romantic ideas behind her--there was one that single-handedly sabotaged her present with Colonel Brandon and had me yelling at her…well, no comment on that…) this is the book for you!
Prepare yourself to enjoy the words “insatiable curiosity” the way one enjoys dark chocolate.
Prepare yourself to compare the future Darcys or whatever fictional heroes you’ll read with “Colonel Brandon, who had remained in the doorway, a quiet sentinel waiting for their entrance.”
Or “Colonel Brandon, that ghost of a figure who seemed always to hover at the edge of their family picture.”
So when that ghost slowly comes to life and becomes a man, a woodworker, a caretaker, an unsatisfied soldier, a capable swordsman, a man who struggles with his own sense of duty and family betrayal, well, prepare yourself to feel close to physical pain when he says “I have seen you in love, Marianne—and this is not it.”

And this is my only minuscule objection to the story. I always found Colonel Brandon’s unrequited love very painful to endure and after all that beating he got throughout the book-- Sense & Sensibility and The Year In Between alike--I wanted a glorious scene where this Holy Grail (Marianne’s love) would be paraded and celebrated. Perhaps Marianne could write an ode dedicated to his first name-- hmm, on second thought, it seems rather ridiculous, isn’t it? :-P
Anyway, it’s probably me and my love for grand gestures. Perhaps, it was my frustration at seeing this story end.

The story was glorious and there was passion. (keyword: door kiss.)

So, I’m writing this to urge you to savor it from the beginning!
Please, please take note of the exceptional narration techniques to weave the story: alternating between Marianne’s diary, Elinor’s lists, the third-person narration, or conveying Brandon’s feelings through Elinor’s observations in her letters to her sister…they all work together to allow us to know what everyone feels in every scene.

For those of you intimidated by a 700+ pages book, you may have guessed: I wanted it never to end!
I can't describe the warm feeling of being in the safety of a book that good.

The only grim side effect I must note after reading The Year In Between is that one needs another Sense & Sensibility variation a.s.a.p. to quench the thirst and may fall victim to some awful ones.
So, if you have any good variations in mind, please send me a message. ;-)

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a new all time favourite Austen retelling, and a supremely satisfying historical fiction book in it's own right. I don't think I will ever reread Sense and Sensibility without immediately following it up with a reread of this book. If, like me, you find the romantic relationships in S&S to be the weakest part of the novel, I urge to read this book because it added so much emotional depth to both Elinor and Edward's marriage and Marianne and Colonel Brandon's courtship while filling in the details about that year skipped over by Austen in the final chapters of S&S.

[Sherry Parmentier · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore this book

Best adaptation of a sequel to sense and sensibility ever. Could not put it down. I can only hope this author does more

[Jassmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

It feels sacrilegious to rate The Year in Between higher than Sense and Sensibility but the fact stands that S&S are my least favourite Jane Austen (sorry!) mostly because I can't stand Edward and it's missing the sharp wit of some of my favourites. I was therefore a little hesitant when I picked this book up because it's LONG and although I like both Marianne and Elinor very much, I wasn't sure this was something that would keep me engaged.

Well... I will just say that if this book wasn't as ridiculously long as it is, I would have read it in one sitting. And I did seriously try, but at a certain point I had to admit that it wasn't viable option and went to sleep.

This book alternates Marianne's chapters documenting her friendship and falling in love with Colonel Brandon and Elinor's and Edward's lives as newlyweds. And although I vastly preferer Marianne's chapters, Morland managed what I would have thought impossible - actually feel and enjoy Elinor and Edward's relationship. There is a lot I could talk about, but I will just say that despite giving it five stars this isn't a perfect book. The Lyra & Prometheus notes did stretch my suspension of disbelief just a little bit and there is a story line involving CW miscarriage pretty late in the pregnancy that was meaningfully written and had its thematic place in the book and yet I was wishing it wasn't included. (This does say more about my current mental state than about the book though.)


But yeah, I loved this and I think I will be returning to it in the future. Definitely would recommend if after finishing Sense and Sensibility you were curious what happened in that Year in Between that the book skips over. I'm looking forward to reading more by Christina Morland!

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

2024 review:
I still love this book. Some points of characterization feel a touch off for how Mrs. Jennings discusses Mr. Willoughby and Marianne's story at one point so as to force the narrative. There are grammatical and typographical errors on occasion. I'm not sure it needed to be moved to 1810, but so it is. At the end of the day this is an entertaining, exasperating, romantic read. Though I wouldn't mind reading a well executed one that doesn't change the ending from the original Sense and Sensibility.
P.s. This reads like a scathing critique more so of modern day Purity Culture teachings in the much more modern views it expresses more so than a full grappling with Jane Austen's era. Usually this would annoy me, but there is something so cathartic about imagining Marianne Dashwood defenestrating not only Fordyce's Sermons but also many of the more egregious purity culture books.

Original review from 2022

While it does veer from Jane Austen on a few details, including Eliza's age, which in Sense and Sensibility is 15 not 16, the duel would have been more likely fought with pistols than sabers, though the choreography of the duel is reminiscent of the 2008 BBC production, and the biggest deviation being Marianne falls in love with Brandon before marrying him, the courtship makes perfect sense. Equally entertaining, torturous, and adorable this exasperating book was exactly the type of character driven Jane Austen variation I was looking for. I will definitely be buying this one.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fairly lengthy book, yet I started it first thing Friday morning and finished on Saturday evening. I couldn't put it down! As the title hints, this is a novel that fills in the blanks of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, namely the year between Elinor Dashwood's wedding to Edward Ferrars and Marianne's to Colonel Brandon that's quickly summarized at the end of that story.

Christina Morland gives us her take on what the first year of married life might have been like for Elinor and Edward, complete with moments of bliss, struggle, and hearwrenching pain, and provides a version of the courtship of Marianne and Colonel Brandon that's emotionally satisfying and wonderfully romantic. (If you love the 1995 movie adaptation like I do, you'll fall even more in love with Colonel Brandon while reading this, imagining Alan Rickman all the while!) All four main characters, especially Elinor and Marianne, continue to grow and develop throughout this story, and I laughed and cried at their joys and sorrows. The cast of supporting characters are beautifully portrayed and explored too, with particular emphasis on Edward's family and Brandon's ward, Eliza.

I'd put this novel up there with The Other Bennet Sister as the best Austen sequel/variation I've read -- one that expands on the original novel in a fresh way, while remaining true to the characters and world of the story. I'm skeptical of most of the Austen "fanfic" books out there, but The Year in Between was a refreshingly great surprise.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story fills in the gaps left at the end of S&S. It covers the first year of Elinor and Edward’s marriage and Marianne and Brandon’s attachment. Having just finished a reread of the original, I enjoyed spending more time with these characters. The dinner party near the end was particularly memorable—put all of the principle characters together again in one room and watch the sparks fly. It’s a really long book though and I do feel like it could have been tightened up a bit. I liked that equal time was devoted to Elinor and Marianne. The alternating sections switch from first person journal entries to third person narrative which helped keep the story moving for me.

[Mirta Trupp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Touches of brilliance!

[Petra · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars

The Year in Between ended up being the biggest disappointment of the month. It is a retelling of Sense and Sensibility and started really well. We follow Marianne and Elinor after Elinor is married and Marianne is recovering from a heartbreak. Soon enough I started to grow bored as the book is almost 700 pages. The pacing is off, the scenes a bit too long and some of Morland's interpretations of the characters feel a bit odd. However, the biggest disappointment for me was definitely the explicit content which I don't usually mind. With Jane Austen retellings, I always find the explicit content quite unsuitable and as the scenes got more and more explicit, I started enjoying the book less and less. I ended up feeling quite disappointed with the book overall and really don't recommend the book for Austen lovers.

[lori huff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful

I have to give four stars just for the exquisite writing by Christina Morland. She imagines what could have happened from the time of the marriage of Edward Ferrars and Elinor Dashwood, to the eventual marriage of Colonel Brandon to Marianne Dashwood. The story alternates with situations and events happening to each couple, and there is a lot. Edward and Elinor are getting used to living together, handling the duties of the parsonage, trying to figure out their meagre finances, and starting a family. The Dashwood family, Mrs Dashwood, Marianne, and Margaret, are frequent visitors to the parsonage, which puts them in frequent contact with Colonel Brandon at Delaford, who has been in love with Marianne for a long time.

The author has cleverly concocted many important events and many family crises that take place during this period. Situations both heartbreaking and heartwarming occur to each couple, and test the bonds of support from friends and family. The overlying theme of the book seems to be that Elinor and Marianne were extremely blessed to have been raised in a warm and loving family environment, whereas the men they love were not so fortunate, but that the love of a good woman can help overcome even the most challenging obstacles.

This is a long book, and in spite of the superb writing, I felt that it could have been shorter. There were a few very melodramatic episodes that were dragged out too long. I couldn't really deduct any stars for this, because these long episodes were done so well. I did deduct a star, however, for a strictly personal aversion to Marianne Dashwood. Although she does have redeeming qualities in the story, it's hard to find a more vain and self-absorbed character than her, and she's even called that in the book by her own sister. Her romance with Colonel Brandon is very nice, and he is definitely swoon worthy, but I couldn't help but pity him for admiring such a vain and childish person. Her journal entries often annoyed me tremendously.

I would have liked an epilogue at the end with some information about Elinor and Edward, and about Marianne and Brandon, and their future families. Even something about Eliza Williams would have been nice. However, the book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.

[Lorri · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars Morland brings to life the missing year between Elinor Dashwood and Edward Ferrars’ wedding and Marianne Dashwood and Colonel Brandon’s wedding from Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility. The sisters’ stories are poignantly, carefully, and lengthily told.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Year in Between: A Sense and Sensibility Variation focuses on the year between Elinor and Marianne getting married. This time period is glossed over in a few paragraphs in Sense and Sensibility and I was so excited to discover that I could read more about how Marianne and Brandon's relationship might have developed. Marianne is such a fascinating character and I loved seeing more of how she changed after her heartbreak with Willoughby. This was a meaty book so there was lots of time to explore Marianne's growth, Elinor and Edward's newlywed life, and appearances from all of the original characters. I feel like reading Austen fan fiction is always a bit of a gamble, but this one was definitely a winner! It really felt like a cohesive part of the original story and any deviations from canon were noted in the back. I will certainly be reading more from Christina Morland!

[Margrethe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well done. I thought the author did an excellent job of being true to the characters I so love. There are open-door bedroom scenes, so not recommended for younger readers, but I found it tasteful overall, and the author paints a true picture of the depth and challenge of marital love and relationship building. I felt the relationships were real, and there was so much to relate to and think about. While the passion was evident, and, at times, too drawn-out (Marianne and Brandon's tension), the depth and work of relationship building was real. The book was in turns fun, deep, thoughtful, passionate, and inspiring.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Sense and Sensibility, and I love Colonel Brandon and Marianne Dashwood, so naturally, I loved this book, too.

It made my little romantic heart go pitter-patter. It also kept me up way, way too late because I just had to know when they would finally get together. Seriously, so much angst.

I loved it so much that I had to go back and re-read my favorite parts (I am a nerd). I really, really hope this author continues to write more about the Dashwood sisters!

Edit: I’ve probably reread this 3 or 4 more times since my first review nearly three years ago. Still one of the best Jane Austen sequels I have read, and I have read many, many Jane Austen sequels and variations.

[Lizzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m shocked that I loved this as much as I did. It’s self-published and a Jane Austen fan fiction, and as much as JA fanfics and regency romances are my guilty pleasure, I was not expecting this to be so well written. It’s long, but it never drags. The characters are deeply explored and I felt they were very true to Austen’s original characters. It also explored loss, grief, passion, and heartbreak SO well and authentically. You need to be familiar with “Sense and Sensibility” to understand this, but it also stands on its own as just a really good novel.

[Hannah Edgington · Rating 5 out of 5]

More than Pride and Prejudice, more even than my very favourite Emma, I've wanted to be able to picture what happened at the end of Sense and Sensibility for some time now. This book has scratched that itch and done it to PERFECTION. I've read many, many Jane Austen "sequels", or rewrites of her books from various different points of view at this point - yet I don't think any quite hit the mark like this does. It feels like the author has immersed herself in Austen's characters and captivated the essence of each so well: deepening, rather than changing them in any way. I tend to be very precious about how other authors or directors choose to depict my favourite stories and characters in new adaptations. Yet I could not find fault with this.

No, it does not feel like it's written by Jane Austen - the language is different, and it discusses some more modern concepts, but it still manages to capture the essence of her novels and the sense of the period beautifully. I would say in this it is similar to both The Other Bennet Sister and Longbourn - simultaneously true to the period and the world Austen has created, yet a beautiful and well crafted novel in its own right.

I didn't expect it to be as amusing as it was - but the banter between characters was *so* witty and frequently made me chuckle outloud.

The Year In Between is the longest book I've read in some time, and I imagined it would drag in places because of this. However this could not have been less true - I was immersed from the outset and found that as the book wore on, the more reluctant I was to put it down. I'm not exactly sure how this slow paced story proved to be such a page turner, but it really was, and it had me enthralled.

And the yearning!!! Oh my days!! Bring back Colonel Brandon-esque yearning!! As someone who finds that romance book tropes can sometimes be too cheesy and contrived - I can tell you now that this felt anything but. Whether you are a romance lover or not, I struggle to imagine how you could dislike the romantic elements of this book. They are so beautifully written and felt realistic.

Ever since first reading Sense and Sensibility as a teenager, I've been fascinated by Elinor and Marianne. Elinor especially captivated my attention on that first reading - I didn't merely admire her, I wanted to *be* just like her. Witty, captivating Elizabeth Bennet always seemed unrealistic, beautiful Jane too angelic, and pragmatic Charlotte Lucas (and her unappealing fate) a bit depressing. But Elinor! Who put aside her own heartbreak to care for others in theirs - who kept her word even when it cost her dearly - who was kind and gentle and selfless and stoic and wise and interested in others, even when in pain herself. Who did eventually, despite all the odds, did get her happy ending with the wonderful Edward (Hugh Grant's brilliant role in the film version has only further fuelled my Edward mania. He may not emerge dripping from a lake, but I'd choose him over Mr Darcy anyyyy day). Yes, Elinor Dashwood was someone to be admired and aspired to.

Marianne though, I didn't initially warm to. I thought her selfish and overdramatic at times. But overtime she has grown on me - I see her many merits as well as her faults, and this book made me love her as I never have before! I now want to be just like her too.

This book has reminded me, in its delightful way, that maybe the answer was never sense or sensibility, Elinor or Marianne - but both. Wisdom and feeling are not the opposites I once thought. After all, which other of Austen's books has an equal focus on two heroines? It is sense *and* sensibility, or in its original title - "Elinor and Marianne".

I so loved revisiting their stories in this novel and am very, very grateful to Christina Morland for writing this book! I am sure I will be returning to it again and again.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Morland is a Gem

Christina Morland writes deep, thoughtful novels exploring the rich emotional landscape of Austen’s characters. Although Marianne Dashwood has always annoyed me in the past, I fell in love with Morland’s characterization. A wonderful book.
*I rate most novels three stars. Four and five stars are for exceptional works.

[Hannah Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started this book in bed with a total disregard for my plans for the next day. I heard it was good, but HECK! This is the best Sense and Sensibility variation I have ever read!

The passion between the couples, more character interactions and more information on Eliza Williams. I couldn’t stop reading.

[Melody Schwarting · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Year in Between covers the final year in Sense and Sensibility, when the Ferrars are setting up housekeeping and Marianne is finding it within herself to marry a man who seeks "the constitutional safeguard of a flannel waistcoat!" (S&S ch. 50) For anyone rather disappointed by Marianne's lackluster love story in Sense and Sensibility, Morland makes her relationship with Colonel Brandon believable and compelling.

Having been burned a few times before, I can be wary of Jane Austen "variations" (fanfiction, pastiche, however the author defines it). Where Morland succeeds is in her fidelity to the original text, but also in writing a novel Austen wouldn't have written. Morland's style is her own, with a clearly modern voice and progressive (but not anachronistic) views bestowed within her characters. See Brandon's experience in British colonial India, Marianne's willingness to befriend Eliza, and Marianne's take on women's virtue and male culpability in seduction. Yet, I truly felt like I was reading about the same characters I met in Sense and Sensibility: Elinor, once her sarcasm has subsided and opened the door of friendship between herself and Marianne again; Edward, with his strong personal morals; Marianne, with her winsome heart and all-or-nothing personality (except it's never nothing, it's always all). One of the bigger changes Morland makes, by her own admission, is that Marianne falls passionately in love with Brandon before their marriage; the final chapter in Sense and Sensibility says that Marianne only achieved this after marriage. As a reader, I found Morland's way more satisfying, if Austen's expression was more humorous.

The Year in Between takes the story of the Dashwood sisters to new, and deeper, places. My one complaint about Austen that I've found in all her novels is that they can seem a bit shallow to a reader who has the benefit of reading the "deeper" works of her successors. Yes, her characters grow and change--powerfully--but we see this more often through humor than interior life (my literary kryptonite) and at the end of the book, the most important characters end up at the altar. The Year in Between reminded me of how much ground Austen paved with her singular narration style so future writers could blend that with the nascent psychological novel established in the 18th century and come up with something like Middlemarch. Here we not only see a young woman getting married, but a couple struggling to make their way in the world and create a marriage while working through emotional turmoil; we see a "fallen woman" torn between her infatuation and pride; we see the pain of vulnerability and the relentlessness of love. I can't speak for Austen, since she died 204 years ago, but I think she would appreciate knowing her characters are still alive today in the hearts of her readers and the hands of talented writers like Morland.

Morland is truly exemplary with her historical research, too, especially since she wasn't trying to copy Austen's writing style. Based on the appendix where she lists words she looked up in the OED to ensure accuracy, I trust her wholeheartedly as a historical novelist. (There are also several other appendices, but we all know the way to my heart is through the OED.) She did change a few things from the novel, or at least what scholarship says about the novel (such as the date), but she acknowledged all of these changes and her rationales for them. Morland begins the novel with a list of Sense and Sensibility's descriptions of characters and places, owning that she is really working from the text itself as much as possible, not her idea of the text.

The one thing I wished for more of was Elinor's interior life. I loved the voice Morland gave to Marianne, and I wish I had seen more of that in Elinor. Perhaps a re-read someday will enliven Elinor's character in The Year in Between, because I know I will be reaching for this book after re-reading Sense and Sensibility. I also kind of want a sequel; any plans, Morland??? I almost never take my time when reading books, but it was a joy to savor this one (it is rather long, after all), and I may look up more books by Morland in the future. Sense and Sensibility is the only story that I feel needs a bit more than what Austen gave us, so I don't know if I would enjoy a variation on one of her other books, but I did enjoy Morland's writing enough to be curious about where she would take some of my favorite Austen characters.

Content warnings: miscarriage, some open-door scenes flirting with explicit but not quite there.