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A Learned Romance
“She had been forced into prudence in her youth, she learned romance as she grew older: the natural sequel of an unnatural beginning"--Jane Austen, Persuasion, chapter 4
MARY BENNET HAD NEVER WISHED for anything more than to be known as the meek and pious Bennet sister, the one who sweetly brought peace to her family.
BEING THE LAST UNMARRIED BENNET SISTER, the pressure to partake of a London Season with the nouveau riche Wickhams was considerable, no matter how little she desired it; her younger sister Lydia would not hear a refusal. Mary hoped she could pass her days as quietly as a mouse and maybe encourage her still-wild sister to become a more demure wife and stop quarrelling so much with her husband.
BUT WHEN LYDIA'S FLIRTATION with a scientist begins stirring gossip, Mary discovers it is not enough to stay meek and quiet. She must protect Lydia’s reputation by drawing the man’s attentions her way, and convincing the world it is Mary, not Lydia, who attracts Mr Cole. If she fails, Lydia’s disgrace will taint every family member connected with her—Bennet, Bingley, and Darcy alike—and Mary will have no hope for her own future. But alluring a gentleman is hardly the sort of practice Mary has a knack for. Though it goes against every fibre of her being, Mary must turn aside from the peace she craves and uncover the belle within—all while finding her heart awakening in the illusion of romance she has created.
MARY BENNET HAD NEVER WISHED for anything more than to be known as the meek and pious Bennet sister, the one who sweetly brought peace to her family.
BEING THE LAST UNMARRIED BENNET SISTER, the pressure to partake of a London Season with the nouveau riche Wickhams was considerable, no matter how little she desired it; her younger sister Lydia would not hear a refusal. Mary hoped she could pass her days as quietly as a mouse and maybe encourage her still-wild sister to become a more demure wife and stop quarrelling so much with her husband.
BUT WHEN LYDIA'S FLIRTATION with a scientist begins stirring gossip, Mary discovers it is not enough to stay meek and quiet. She must protect Lydia’s reputation by drawing the man’s attentions her way, and convincing the world it is Mary, not Lydia, who attracts Mr Cole. If she fails, Lydia’s disgrace will taint every family member connected with her—Bennet, Bingley, and Darcy alike—and Mary will have no hope for her own future. But alluring a gentleman is hardly the sort of practice Mary has a knack for. Though it goes against every fibre of her being, Mary must turn aside from the peace she craves and uncover the belle within—all while finding her heart awakening in the illusion of romance she has created.
- GenresRegency
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 26, 2021
32 people are currently reading
34 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Rasche
6 books20 followersElizabeth Rasche loves Jane Austen, Maria Edgeworth, and the Regency era. Her dream is to visit England and Ireland and see the places she's read about with her own eyes. Her background is in philosophy, and she lives in the United States with her husband and cat.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 26, 2021
“The very essence of romance is uncertainty.” –Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest and Other Plays
Rating: clean, PG-17 due to discussions of adultery, unwed pregnancy, but nothing salacious or graphic. Angst Level: Low… mainly stressors as the unknown situations played out: Source: I received an ARC via Booksprout. The views and opinions expressed are my own. 29-chapters + epilogue. SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** Spoilers *** [3.5-stars rounds to 4-stars]
Those that love a Mary Bennet story, where she comes into her own, will be thrilled. If you love watching the wallflower, take center stage on the dance floor, this is your book. If you enjoy listening, as Mary goes toe-to-toe with her youngest sister, grab a ring-side seat. If you love watching this overlooked daughter go weak in the knees over a handsome gentleman, grab your salts and a fan. Those that long for this middle sister to have her own HEA, here it is.
The writing was well done; however, a story with secondary or even tertiary characters from a favorite novel is a tricky business. I knew going in that this was a Mary Bennet story. Mary was a difficult personality even in Austen’s account and not one of my best-loved characters. This was a strange story with a lot of time spent in Mary’s head. It wasn’t that it was such a dark place; it just wasn’t a fun place to hang out. She was always mulling over what she had done in the past, questioning what she should do with the present, and fretting over the future for herself, her family, and her friends. She also looked back on her life in Meryton, thoughts on her parents, their comments, and their treatment of her [her mother especially]. She struggled with her self-image and with being compared to her sisters. I started developing an inferiority complex of my own just listening to her.
“I heard what you said. I’m not the silly romantic you think. I don’t want the heavens or the shooting stars. I don’t want gemstones or gold. I have those things already. I want… a steady hand. A kind soul. I want to fall asleep, and wake, knowing my heart is safe. I want to love, and be loved.” –Shana Abe
Mary hated confrontation due to a traumatizing past experience. She was constantly trying to control her feelings and emotions while her guilt pushed her to find that peaceful place in every situation. It was to the point that she was constantly walking on eggshells. It was clear that Mary was out of her depth and comfort in London and she was not happy about it. With her penchant for control and having everything just so, she reminded me of Lady Catherine in that she was constantly giving advice and counsel whether they wanted it or not. I became lost in the miasma of following the many story threads.
Lydia was a nightmare. She was a social butterfly that flitted from one social gathering to another. She was the belle of London society [in her own mind] and was full of balls, soirees, gowns, shopping, bonnets, shopping, shoes, lace, and more shopping. What??? Actually, she did an exorbitant amount of… yeah… shopping. That also included redecorating their townhouse. They had a townhouse?!!? I kept thinking… what-the-heck?? Where was all this money coming from? This was Wickham… you know… that SBRB [scum-bag-rat-bastard] that was forced/paid to marry Lydia. What was going on? That question haunted me throughout the story. Where was the money coming from?
Lydia was also a consummate flirt. The ton loved nothing better than to talk and was constantly looking for their next target/victim. The slightest indiscretion could set them off… and, tag… Lydia… you’re it. Her incessant flirting with Mr. Cole… the geologist and lecturer… set the tongues to wagging. I can’t imagine Lydia being interested in science. However, she was interested in flirting with a handsome guy with a dreamy voice. Oh, Lydia. No one could reason with her. She was convinced it was nothing and had no clue what she was doing to her name or the name of her family. I didn’t understand why the job of reining in her sister fell to Mary anyway. Lydia was a train wreck waiting to happen and no one… NO ONE was able to stop her from doing anything she wanted to do once her mind was made up.
“The best love is the kind that awakens the soul and makes us reach for more, that plants a fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds. And that’s what you’ve given me. That’s what I’d hoped to give you forever.” –Nicholas Sparks
Next on my list of WTH [what-the-heck] … it was suggested to Mary that she try to divert the gentleman’s attention away from Lydia to herself. Again… What?!? Lydia thought it would be a lark to do a make-over with her sister Mary and with a bit of matchmaking on the side. That was interesting. We then had the slow evolution to the new and improved Mary Bennet. I can recommend this for those who love to see this Bennet sister blossom with love and experience her very own HEA. Launch date July 26, 2021
Rating: clean, PG-17 due to discussions of adultery, unwed pregnancy, but nothing salacious or graphic. Angst Level: Low… mainly stressors as the unknown situations played out: Source: I received an ARC via Booksprout. The views and opinions expressed are my own. 29-chapters + epilogue. SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** Spoilers *** [3.5-stars rounds to 4-stars]
Those that love a Mary Bennet story, where she comes into her own, will be thrilled. If you love watching the wallflower, take center stage on the dance floor, this is your book. If you enjoy listening, as Mary goes toe-to-toe with her youngest sister, grab a ring-side seat. If you love watching this overlooked daughter go weak in the knees over a handsome gentleman, grab your salts and a fan. Those that long for this middle sister to have her own HEA, here it is.
The writing was well done; however, a story with secondary or even tertiary characters from a favorite novel is a tricky business. I knew going in that this was a Mary Bennet story. Mary was a difficult personality even in Austen’s account and not one of my best-loved characters. This was a strange story with a lot of time spent in Mary’s head. It wasn’t that it was such a dark place; it just wasn’t a fun place to hang out. She was always mulling over what she had done in the past, questioning what she should do with the present, and fretting over the future for herself, her family, and her friends. She also looked back on her life in Meryton, thoughts on her parents, their comments, and their treatment of her [her mother especially]. She struggled with her self-image and with being compared to her sisters. I started developing an inferiority complex of my own just listening to her.
“I heard what you said. I’m not the silly romantic you think. I don’t want the heavens or the shooting stars. I don’t want gemstones or gold. I have those things already. I want… a steady hand. A kind soul. I want to fall asleep, and wake, knowing my heart is safe. I want to love, and be loved.” –Shana Abe
Mary hated confrontation due to a traumatizing past experience. She was constantly trying to control her feelings and emotions while her guilt pushed her to find that peaceful place in every situation. It was to the point that she was constantly walking on eggshells. It was clear that Mary was out of her depth and comfort in London and she was not happy about it. With her penchant for control and having everything just so, she reminded me of Lady Catherine in that she was constantly giving advice and counsel whether they wanted it or not. I became lost in the miasma of following the many story threads.
Lydia was a nightmare. She was a social butterfly that flitted from one social gathering to another. She was the belle of London society [in her own mind] and was full of balls, soirees, gowns, shopping, bonnets, shopping, shoes, lace, and more shopping. What??? Actually, she did an exorbitant amount of… yeah… shopping. That also included redecorating their townhouse. They had a townhouse?!!? I kept thinking… what-the-heck?? Where was all this money coming from? This was Wickham… you know… that SBRB [scum-bag-rat-bastard] that was forced/paid to marry Lydia. What was going on? That question haunted me throughout the story. Where was the money coming from?
Lydia was also a consummate flirt. The ton loved nothing better than to talk and was constantly looking for their next target/victim. The slightest indiscretion could set them off… and, tag… Lydia… you’re it. Her incessant flirting with Mr. Cole… the geologist and lecturer… set the tongues to wagging. I can’t imagine Lydia being interested in science. However, she was interested in flirting with a handsome guy with a dreamy voice. Oh, Lydia. No one could reason with her. She was convinced it was nothing and had no clue what she was doing to her name or the name of her family. I didn’t understand why the job of reining in her sister fell to Mary anyway. Lydia was a train wreck waiting to happen and no one… NO ONE was able to stop her from doing anything she wanted to do once her mind was made up.
“The best love is the kind that awakens the soul and makes us reach for more, that plants a fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds. And that’s what you’ve given me. That’s what I’d hoped to give you forever.” –Nicholas Sparks
Next on my list of WTH [what-the-heck] … it was suggested to Mary that she try to divert the gentleman’s attention away from Lydia to herself. Again… What?!? Lydia thought it would be a lark to do a make-over with her sister Mary and with a bit of matchmaking on the side. That was interesting. We then had the slow evolution to the new and improved Mary Bennet. I can recommend this for those who love to see this Bennet sister blossom with love and experience her very own HEA. Launch date July 26, 2021
June 26, 2021
It is not to know what to do, but strength to do it, knowing. ~ Muriel Strode
Mary Bennet is the protagonist of “A Learned Romance” and to my notion, her character is completely aligned with her character in canon Pride & Prejudice. I could see canon Mary settling into the conditions she must live with and the fit was perfect.
Lydia Wickham is a major player and again, I could see canon Lydia behaving this way in these conditions. Ditto with George Wickham.
The character who seemed unbelievably out of character to me is Elizabeth Darcy!
The beginning situation: the Wickhams have had major financial improvements and they live the high life in the first circles of London. Mary is the only Bennet sister still unmarried and Lydia (I dare say I shall get husbands for them before the winter is over) is determined. Mary must live with her and Wickham in London and enter London society.
Lydia, “untamed, unabashed, wild, noisy and fearless” Lydia, is paying a great deal of attention to a gentleman other than the one with whom she shares wedded bliss. The Darcys and Bingleys are concerned about a possible scandal.
Elizabeth sets Mary to remedy the situation. Mary must “out-flirt” Lydia and if she cannot capture the man’s attention, perhaps society will believe the man shows more attention to her than to her sister.
To me, this is the major flaw of the book. Would Elizabeth ever believe her bookish, priggish sister could out-flirt “the most determined flirt that ever made herself and her family ridiculous”? But Mary is willing to try.
Once I could accept this difference in Elizabeth, I was able to enjoy the book.
Life is too short to hold a grudge, also too long. ~ Robert Brault
Mary’s introspections return again and again to two memories. One is a certain day in her childhood when her mother has promised to sew a new doll — a doll just for Mary! Mary is also haunted by her memory of the day she betrayed a friend’s secret.
Quote from the book: This is what anger does. It is poisonous. If you let yourself feel it a little, it taints everything. … Poor Mama! Anyone would get tired with five girls and a house to take care of. I ought not to judge her. … She shoved her anger back down again, but the rest of her time in her room was spoiled by it anyway.
Don't pose as a saint, but be a girl of principle, and your light will shine clearly. ~ Minna Thomas Antrim
Mary confronts her character flaws.
Quote from the book: Before, she would have considered speaking up more as an idle pursuit, a possibility she might play with. Now her cowardice bit at her, and made her character seem intolerable. … Mary could not erase the horror she had felt when she realized her fear had somehow become more important than the life of a child.
Frequently the man higher up gets there by low-down methods. ~ "Poor Richard Junior's Philosophy," The Saturday Evening Post, 1906
The Wickhams are wholly accepted into London society and spend prodigious amounts. How is that possible? We get clues but what is the rest of the story? Where does George Wickham get so much money?
“A Learned Romance” rates high in the quality of the written word. An example:
It was absurd to think of a building as being like a bird, but when Mary arrived at Maddox’s Assembly Rooms, it reminded her of nothing so well as a fat raven. Theoretically, the building was grey and blue — dark grey stone with light grey mortar and midnight blue shutters. In actuality, soot had saturated the top of the stone thickly enough to turn it black, and more soot and particles streaked down the sides in swaths that tapered, rather featherlike in shape. The midnight blue shutters had a sticky residue of ash that made them look rippled in darkness. Though the shops on either side had been well cleaned, Maddox’s Assembly Rooms sat between them in dismal squalor, perched like a surly raven in a row of gentle grey doves, to continue the metaphor.
Mary Bennet is by far my least favorite of the five sisters. In many Mary stories, the girl exceeds the intelligence she displays in canon and embarks on problem-solving, crime-solving, marriage-solving, etc. While I have enjoyed many of those stories, they don’t really ring true. This was a story about the real Mary Bennet — the Mary who confronts her life as the family’s “lost child” and forges ahead to create her own happy ending. I am putting it in my “to be re-read” pile.
4.5 Stars rounded up.
Harder even than speaking truth to power is speaking truth to comfort. ~ Robert Brault
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mary Bennet is the protagonist of “A Learned Romance” and to my notion, her character is completely aligned with her character in canon Pride & Prejudice. I could see canon Mary settling into the conditions she must live with and the fit was perfect.
Lydia Wickham is a major player and again, I could see canon Lydia behaving this way in these conditions. Ditto with George Wickham.
The character who seemed unbelievably out of character to me is Elizabeth Darcy!
The beginning situation: the Wickhams have had major financial improvements and they live the high life in the first circles of London. Mary is the only Bennet sister still unmarried and Lydia (I dare say I shall get husbands for them before the winter is over) is determined. Mary must live with her and Wickham in London and enter London society.
Lydia, “untamed, unabashed, wild, noisy and fearless” Lydia, is paying a great deal of attention to a gentleman other than the one with whom she shares wedded bliss. The Darcys and Bingleys are concerned about a possible scandal.
Elizabeth sets Mary to remedy the situation. Mary must “out-flirt” Lydia and if she cannot capture the man’s attention, perhaps society will believe the man shows more attention to her than to her sister.
To me, this is the major flaw of the book. Would Elizabeth ever believe her bookish, priggish sister could out-flirt “the most determined flirt that ever made herself and her family ridiculous”? But Mary is willing to try.
Once I could accept this difference in Elizabeth, I was able to enjoy the book.
Life is too short to hold a grudge, also too long. ~ Robert Brault
Mary’s introspections return again and again to two memories. One is a certain day in her childhood when her mother has promised to sew a new doll — a doll just for Mary! Mary is also haunted by her memory of the day she betrayed a friend’s secret.
Quote from the book: This is what anger does. It is poisonous. If you let yourself feel it a little, it taints everything. … Poor Mama! Anyone would get tired with five girls and a house to take care of. I ought not to judge her. … She shoved her anger back down again, but the rest of her time in her room was spoiled by it anyway.
Don't pose as a saint, but be a girl of principle, and your light will shine clearly. ~ Minna Thomas Antrim
Mary confronts her character flaws.
Quote from the book: Before, she would have considered speaking up more as an idle pursuit, a possibility she might play with. Now her cowardice bit at her, and made her character seem intolerable. … Mary could not erase the horror she had felt when she realized her fear had somehow become more important than the life of a child.
Frequently the man higher up gets there by low-down methods. ~ "Poor Richard Junior's Philosophy," The Saturday Evening Post, 1906
The Wickhams are wholly accepted into London society and spend prodigious amounts. How is that possible? We get clues but what is the rest of the story? Where does George Wickham get so much money?
“A Learned Romance” rates high in the quality of the written word. An example:
It was absurd to think of a building as being like a bird, but when Mary arrived at Maddox’s Assembly Rooms, it reminded her of nothing so well as a fat raven. Theoretically, the building was grey and blue — dark grey stone with light grey mortar and midnight blue shutters. In actuality, soot had saturated the top of the stone thickly enough to turn it black, and more soot and particles streaked down the sides in swaths that tapered, rather featherlike in shape. The midnight blue shutters had a sticky residue of ash that made them look rippled in darkness. Though the shops on either side had been well cleaned, Maddox’s Assembly Rooms sat between them in dismal squalor, perched like a surly raven in a row of gentle grey doves, to continue the metaphor.
Mary Bennet is by far my least favorite of the five sisters. In many Mary stories, the girl exceeds the intelligence she displays in canon and embarks on problem-solving, crime-solving, marriage-solving, etc. While I have enjoyed many of those stories, they don’t really ring true. This was a story about the real Mary Bennet — the Mary who confronts her life as the family’s “lost child” and forges ahead to create her own happy ending. I am putting it in my “to be re-read” pile.
4.5 Stars rounded up.
Harder even than speaking truth to power is speaking truth to comfort. ~ Robert Brault
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 27, 2021
Published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
4,5 Rounded up to 5
Mary Bennet is my favorite sister following Elizabeth, and I believe she has a lot of potential as a character with many different approaches and outcomes being possible and believable, so I was very happy to see that a sequel focused on Mary was about to be published by Quills & Quartos Publishing.
In A Learned Romance we will find all Bennet sisters married except Mary who has been residing with the Wickham’s in their London house. Mr. Wikham has somehow gained a fortune which has allowed them to walk among society’s high circles, but which has also brought a lot of attention to Lydia’s behavior. And you know Lydia, right? She is a flirt! So, when society starts noticing her unmeasured attention to geologist Mr. Cole, Elizabeth decides to give Mary a task. Call Mr. Cole’s attention to herself to allow the gossips pertaining Lydia to subside. Trying to conquer a gentleman of the ton is certainly not a comfortable task for Mary, but her duty to her family speaks higher then her natural shyness, and it is an idea provided by Elizabeth, so it’s got to be witty, right?
The storyline will then move forward with Mary trying to abate the gossip linking Lydia Wikham to Mr. Cole, but things are not as easy as Elizabeth would believe. Not only Mary is inapt at flirting, but she is also still learning who she is, what she wants and how to behave to obtain that.
I am not sure if I liked Mary in this novel, nor am I sure if I understood her character, or that of Mr. Cole for that matter, but I certainly loved watching them on their path to self-discovery. In my perspective this book is not solely focused on providing the reader a love story for Mary, but a book that will allow her to grow as a character and to discover her true self and her role in society.
Mary’s character will change throughout the story as her relationship with Mr. Cole, and her friendship with Lady Lucy forces her to see the world through other people’s eyes. She will start questioning if her view and her approach to several situations in life are indeed the best, and I enjoyed that immensely because if we think about it, Mary Bennet was only 19 or 20 years old, and people are still building their personalities at that age. I enjoyed the fact that her character is not a stereotype but an evolving personality, and that both she and Mr. Cole helped each other find their way.
I also loved the fact that I couldn’t predict what would happen next. Because this book is a sequel, the author had to develop an entirely new plot, and the excitement of not knowing what would occur next, and if/when Mary would end up with Mr. Cole made me read it non-stop. I kept reading in anticipation of their next interlude and even if the book is not dedicated to their love story, it did not disappoint, and I really enjoyed it.
A Learned Romance is a novel of self-discovery with a romance that will spice things a little. It is a very agreeable read that I recommend to all who see in Mary Bennet a rough diamond with a lot of potential.
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
4,5 Rounded up to 5
Mary Bennet is my favorite sister following Elizabeth, and I believe she has a lot of potential as a character with many different approaches and outcomes being possible and believable, so I was very happy to see that a sequel focused on Mary was about to be published by Quills & Quartos Publishing.
In A Learned Romance we will find all Bennet sisters married except Mary who has been residing with the Wickham’s in their London house. Mr. Wikham has somehow gained a fortune which has allowed them to walk among society’s high circles, but which has also brought a lot of attention to Lydia’s behavior. And you know Lydia, right? She is a flirt! So, when society starts noticing her unmeasured attention to geologist Mr. Cole, Elizabeth decides to give Mary a task. Call Mr. Cole’s attention to herself to allow the gossips pertaining Lydia to subside. Trying to conquer a gentleman of the ton is certainly not a comfortable task for Mary, but her duty to her family speaks higher then her natural shyness, and it is an idea provided by Elizabeth, so it’s got to be witty, right?
The storyline will then move forward with Mary trying to abate the gossip linking Lydia Wikham to Mr. Cole, but things are not as easy as Elizabeth would believe. Not only Mary is inapt at flirting, but she is also still learning who she is, what she wants and how to behave to obtain that.
I am not sure if I liked Mary in this novel, nor am I sure if I understood her character, or that of Mr. Cole for that matter, but I certainly loved watching them on their path to self-discovery. In my perspective this book is not solely focused on providing the reader a love story for Mary, but a book that will allow her to grow as a character and to discover her true self and her role in society.
Mary’s character will change throughout the story as her relationship with Mr. Cole, and her friendship with Lady Lucy forces her to see the world through other people’s eyes. She will start questioning if her view and her approach to several situations in life are indeed the best, and I enjoyed that immensely because if we think about it, Mary Bennet was only 19 or 20 years old, and people are still building their personalities at that age. I enjoyed the fact that her character is not a stereotype but an evolving personality, and that both she and Mr. Cole helped each other find their way.
I also loved the fact that I couldn’t predict what would happen next. Because this book is a sequel, the author had to develop an entirely new plot, and the excitement of not knowing what would occur next, and if/when Mary would end up with Mr. Cole made me read it non-stop. I kept reading in anticipation of their next interlude and even if the book is not dedicated to their love story, it did not disappoint, and I really enjoyed it.
A Learned Romance is a novel of self-discovery with a romance that will spice things a little. It is a very agreeable read that I recommend to all who see in Mary Bennet a rough diamond with a lot of potential.
June 25, 2021
This was a well written book, that I would have liked enjoying more than I did. The last quarter of the story, when we finally got faster forward movement, was amazing. And as I said the writing was good.
My personal problem was I didn;t realize quite how much Lydia would be in the book. With some Wickham, Kitty and her husband and a smidge of the Darcys.
Furthermore -my pet peeve- there was too much repetition. I would have to say the first 60% of the story was ever so slowly and repetitively building up the Mary character. Why she was the way she was, why she acted the way did or didn't act. I had to constantly take breaks to read other stuff before getting back to this one.
However, once we got past the long build up and the story started moving it got way better!
Mary's friend Lady Lucy challenged Mary in a way that forced her to act. The maid Hannah needed caring for and Betsy needed a saviour. A long overdue apology (in Mary's mind) to an old friend. All these put Mary in a way of moving beyond the self enforced confinements she had created and removed boulders of baggage from her shoulders.
Let's not forget the yummy Mr. Cole. Although there was so little interaction I am not really sure when they possibly could have fallen in love. A few verbal squabbles, a dance and one tutorial?
Looking at Mary's transformation in hindsight, now that I am finally finished with the book, I am both pleased and proud of the journey she took from "mouse" to "owl". I just wished the journey hadn't been quite so repetitious.
I think many readers will enjoy this more than I did. Especially if they love Mary books and don't mind so much Lydia.
3.5*
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My personal problem was I didn;t realize quite how much Lydia would be in the book. With some Wickham, Kitty and her husband and a smidge of the Darcys.
Furthermore -my pet peeve- there was too much repetition. I would have to say the first 60% of the story was ever so slowly and repetitively building up the Mary character. Why she was the way she was, why she acted the way did or didn't act. I had to constantly take breaks to read other stuff before getting back to this one.
However, once we got past the long build up and the story started moving it got way better!
Mary's friend Lady Lucy challenged Mary in a way that forced her to act. The maid Hannah needed caring for and Betsy needed a saviour. A long overdue apology (in Mary's mind) to an old friend. All these put Mary in a way of moving beyond the self enforced confinements she had created and removed boulders of baggage from her shoulders.
Let's not forget the yummy Mr. Cole. Although there was so little interaction I am not really sure when they possibly could have fallen in love. A few verbal squabbles, a dance and one tutorial?
Looking at Mary's transformation in hindsight, now that I am finally finished with the book, I am both pleased and proud of the journey she took from "mouse" to "owl". I just wished the journey hadn't been quite so repetitious.
I think many readers will enjoy this more than I did. Especially if they love Mary books and don't mind so much Lydia.
3.5*
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 8, 2023
A Pride & Prejudice sequel where Mary Bennet's peace may be about to challenged as she goes to live with the newly wealthy Wickhams in London, to have her Season. Unfortunately for the nature that she has cultivated over the years she faces challenges. Can she overcome them and become a better person, with a possibility of her own happy ending.
An entertaining and well-written story, with a cast of likeable and interesting characters.
Another delightful re-read, again.
An entertaining and well-written story, with a cast of likeable and interesting characters.
Another delightful re-read, again.
July 19, 2021
🪨 A Learned Romance 🪨
✒️ Elizabeth Rasche
https://m.facebook.com/Elizabeth-Rasc...
Release Date 07/26/2021
Publisher Quills & Quartos Publishing
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096SXGZ83/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
“She had been forced into prudence in her youth, she learned romance as she grew older: the natural sequel of an unnatural beginning"--Jane Austen, Persuasion, chapter 4
MARY BENNET HAD NEVER WISHED for anything more than to be known as the meek and pious Bennet sister, the one who sweetly brought peace to her family.
BEING THE LAST UNMARRIED BENNET SISTER, the pressure to partake of a London Season with the nouveau riche Wickhams was considerable, no matter how little she desired it; her younger sister Lydia would not hear a refusal. Mary hoped she could pass her days as quietly as a mouse and maybe encourage her still-wild sister to become a more demure wife and stop quarrelling so much with her husband.
BUT WHEN LYDIA'S FLIRTATION with a scientist begins stirring gossip, Mary discovers it is not enough to stay meek and quiet. She must protect Lydia’s reputation by drawing the man’s attentions her way, and convincing the world it is Mary, not Lydia, who attracts Mr Cole. If she fails, Lydia’s disgrace will taint every family member connected with her—Bennet, Bingley, and Darcy alike—and Mary will have no hope for her own future. But alluring a gentleman is hardly the sort of practice Mary has a knack for. Though it goes against every fibre of her being, Mary must turn aside from the peace she craves and uncover the belle within—all while finding her heart awakening in the illusion of romance she has created.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will she find in herself the strength to stand for herself for once …
I have read few variation of P&P, yet this one is more a sequel of what could have been for a much secondary character.
The setting is quite surprising, I can not figure out who in its right mind would put one’s daughter or sister’s well-being in the hands of the Wickhams.
Mary is not a heroine easy to like, she tip-toes too much at life to be admired. She tends to turn her back to avoid any confrontation. Her need for peace lead her to shut down any squabble and bend her head.
All because she believed she could not be like her sisters, nor pretty, witty, flirty, quirky. So she decided to be anything like them, forgettable, invisible, noiseless.
To sum up, uninteresting.
As the years passed by, her attitude morphed to that of a coward, who lies to herself to hide her inaction even if she knows the right answer.
I wondered how long she would continue the same charade, deceiving herself and hiding instead of living, finding excuses to others when she knows they are wrong or in the wrong.
Mr Cole is not presented at first under the best light, conceited, haughty in his attitude, not much interesting, never seing the wrong he does nor willing to step aside to avoid further tongues wagging. Until their relationship later finds its right pace.
In all, I liked to watch Mary find her footing, discover who she could be. It could have been done a bit earlier in the story, as there were some repetitions. Plus I would have liked a bit more interaction with Mr Cole.
4 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 none
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
✒️ Elizabeth Rasche
https://m.facebook.com/Elizabeth-Rasc...
Release Date 07/26/2021
Publisher Quills & Quartos Publishing
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096SXGZ83/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
“She had been forced into prudence in her youth, she learned romance as she grew older: the natural sequel of an unnatural beginning"--Jane Austen, Persuasion, chapter 4
MARY BENNET HAD NEVER WISHED for anything more than to be known as the meek and pious Bennet sister, the one who sweetly brought peace to her family.
BEING THE LAST UNMARRIED BENNET SISTER, the pressure to partake of a London Season with the nouveau riche Wickhams was considerable, no matter how little she desired it; her younger sister Lydia would not hear a refusal. Mary hoped she could pass her days as quietly as a mouse and maybe encourage her still-wild sister to become a more demure wife and stop quarrelling so much with her husband.
BUT WHEN LYDIA'S FLIRTATION with a scientist begins stirring gossip, Mary discovers it is not enough to stay meek and quiet. She must protect Lydia’s reputation by drawing the man’s attentions her way, and convincing the world it is Mary, not Lydia, who attracts Mr Cole. If she fails, Lydia’s disgrace will taint every family member connected with her—Bennet, Bingley, and Darcy alike—and Mary will have no hope for her own future. But alluring a gentleman is hardly the sort of practice Mary has a knack for. Though it goes against every fibre of her being, Mary must turn aside from the peace she craves and uncover the belle within—all while finding her heart awakening in the illusion of romance she has created.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will she find in herself the strength to stand for herself for once …
I have read few variation of P&P, yet this one is more a sequel of what could have been for a much secondary character.
The setting is quite surprising, I can not figure out who in its right mind would put one’s daughter or sister’s well-being in the hands of the Wickhams.
Mary is not a heroine easy to like, she tip-toes too much at life to be admired. She tends to turn her back to avoid any confrontation. Her need for peace lead her to shut down any squabble and bend her head.
All because she believed she could not be like her sisters, nor pretty, witty, flirty, quirky. So she decided to be anything like them, forgettable, invisible, noiseless.
To sum up, uninteresting.
As the years passed by, her attitude morphed to that of a coward, who lies to herself to hide her inaction even if she knows the right answer.
I wondered how long she would continue the same charade, deceiving herself and hiding instead of living, finding excuses to others when she knows they are wrong or in the wrong.
Mr Cole is not presented at first under the best light, conceited, haughty in his attitude, not much interesting, never seing the wrong he does nor willing to step aside to avoid further tongues wagging. Until their relationship later finds its right pace.
In all, I liked to watch Mary find her footing, discover who she could be. It could have been done a bit earlier in the story, as there were some repetitions. Plus I would have liked a bit more interaction with Mr Cole.
4 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 none
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
March 13, 2022
Mary Bennet Learns and Experiences a Vast Deal
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Sequel about Mary Bennet
THE PREMISE: Quiet and peace-loving Mary Bennet is thrust upon her first London Season with none other than the unexpectedly prosperous and somewhat reputable Wickhams. But there is concern that Lydia is engaging in some scandalous behavior, and it is up to Mary to intervene and help prevent Lydia from harming the family’s reputation…
MY THOUGHTS: I am an avid lover of Mary Bennet stories! I believe this is the eleventh book I read that spotlights Mary as a heroine! I love seeing authors take this quiet and unassuming character and have her grow, evolve, and positively transform into a heroine worthy of our admiration. I am elated Elizabeth Rasche decided to take up her pen and tell a tale all about Mary – portraying her facing some new situations and different challenges. As well as exploring the dynamic between Mary and the Lydia – I don’t think there is a more diverse Bennet sister pairing. In addition, I enjoyed witnessing Mary’s interactions and relationships with an array of new original creations.
One of the things I most admire and love about Mary Bennet is her mindful pursuit of self-improvement. And in this story we see how Mary is ever-observant and self-aware of how others perceive her. She is molded by the past, haunted by her mistakes, and proactively self-regulates her behavior. Through her experiences during this London season, Mary gains some wisdom about the difference between peace and happiness, and the dangers of confusing intervention with control. She begins to comprehend what P&P Mary Bennet never did – that she can’t assume or impose her own beliefs and desires on others. This was such a thoughtful and perceptive way to flesh out Mary’s character. I really appreciated Mary’s introspection and reflection, and the profound discoveries she makes.
While I adored all the things about Mary in this book, there were some other aspects of which I wasn’t as fond. These aspects mostly pertained to the other characters and the plausibility of their situations and actions. For example, the Wickhams’ wealth and elevated status is never explained – only vaguely speculated about (which weakened its significance). And I found the hero in this tale was also be a little lackluster. He is given some interesting background and motivation, yet it feels as if something is missing. He doesn’t seem to propel much on his own and his romance with Mary is a little thin and underdeveloped.
In addition, the main impetus of Mary’s mission to protect Lydia has to do with Mr. Cole, a geologist who gives lectures and has aspirations towards a coveted prestigious invitation, yet at the same time seems to show some disregard for both his reputation and his work. SLIGHT SPOILER ALERT!!! And even though both participants of this flirtation admit it isn’t anything meaningful to them – just a superficial distraction – why are both so obstinate about ending it? Lastly, by the middle of the book Lydia and Mr. Cole were barely seeing each other once a week and it was always in a public setting, I think the London gossips would have given up on them as scandalous fodder long ago and moved on.
These quibbles might not be the sorts that bother every reader, but when added all together they did start to pull me away from the story and arouse some questions of plausibility. However, Mary Bennet and the author’s treatment of her is without a doubt the true MVP in A Learned Romance. And I recommend this story to readers who are interested in witnessing a gratifying journey to new understanding and personal growth for pious and neglected Mary Bennet.
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Sequel about Mary Bennet
THE PREMISE: Quiet and peace-loving Mary Bennet is thrust upon her first London Season with none other than the unexpectedly prosperous and somewhat reputable Wickhams. But there is concern that Lydia is engaging in some scandalous behavior, and it is up to Mary to intervene and help prevent Lydia from harming the family’s reputation…
MY THOUGHTS: I am an avid lover of Mary Bennet stories! I believe this is the eleventh book I read that spotlights Mary as a heroine! I love seeing authors take this quiet and unassuming character and have her grow, evolve, and positively transform into a heroine worthy of our admiration. I am elated Elizabeth Rasche decided to take up her pen and tell a tale all about Mary – portraying her facing some new situations and different challenges. As well as exploring the dynamic between Mary and the Lydia – I don’t think there is a more diverse Bennet sister pairing. In addition, I enjoyed witnessing Mary’s interactions and relationships with an array of new original creations.
One of the things I most admire and love about Mary Bennet is her mindful pursuit of self-improvement. And in this story we see how Mary is ever-observant and self-aware of how others perceive her. She is molded by the past, haunted by her mistakes, and proactively self-regulates her behavior. Through her experiences during this London season, Mary gains some wisdom about the difference between peace and happiness, and the dangers of confusing intervention with control. She begins to comprehend what P&P Mary Bennet never did – that she can’t assume or impose her own beliefs and desires on others. This was such a thoughtful and perceptive way to flesh out Mary’s character. I really appreciated Mary’s introspection and reflection, and the profound discoveries she makes.
While I adored all the things about Mary in this book, there were some other aspects of which I wasn’t as fond. These aspects mostly pertained to the other characters and the plausibility of their situations and actions. For example, the Wickhams’ wealth and elevated status is never explained – only vaguely speculated about (which weakened its significance). And I found the hero in this tale was also be a little lackluster. He is given some interesting background and motivation, yet it feels as if something is missing. He doesn’t seem to propel much on his own and his romance with Mary is a little thin and underdeveloped.
In addition, the main impetus of Mary’s mission to protect Lydia has to do with Mr. Cole, a geologist who gives lectures and has aspirations towards a coveted prestigious invitation, yet at the same time seems to show some disregard for both his reputation and his work. SLIGHT SPOILER ALERT!!! And even though both participants of this flirtation admit it isn’t anything meaningful to them – just a superficial distraction – why are both so obstinate about ending it? Lastly, by the middle of the book Lydia and Mr. Cole were barely seeing each other once a week and it was always in a public setting, I think the London gossips would have given up on them as scandalous fodder long ago and moved on.
These quibbles might not be the sorts that bother every reader, but when added all together they did start to pull me away from the story and arouse some questions of plausibility. However, Mary Bennet and the author’s treatment of her is without a doubt the true MVP in A Learned Romance. And I recommend this story to readers who are interested in witnessing a gratifying journey to new understanding and personal growth for pious and neglected Mary Bennet.
Austenesque Reviews
July 27, 2021
He's Perilously Handsome🐺💪 but Dreadfully Boring!
This is another recently written novel based on the works of Jane Austen, an author📚 who actually lived in the Regency era.
This novel has the Bennet sisters and their spouses in it. The only remaining unwed sister is Mary, affectionately known as "mouse" to her sister, Lydia, now married to Mr. Wickham. Having come into money from somewhere, the Wickhams are living in relative splendor in London. Lady Mary is living with them in hopes of finding a husband.
Her sister Lizzy informs Mary that Lydia is developing a flirtation with a Mr. Cole, the son of a squire, who is also a geologist. This threatens to cause a scandal on their family! Mr. Cole wants to be a great orator of geological science, but his lectures are dull, dull, dull.
Lizzy wants Mary to win the tall and handsome Mr Cole, but Mary is not the flirtatious type! Beside her sisters, Mary is mostly ignored by men in favor of her more beautiful and vivacious sisters.
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
This ebook was $5.95 on Amazon 📚at the time of this review.
Opinions expressed here are entirely my own fault!
This delightful novel faithfully tries to recreate the actual way the gentry talked in those days. It was always be, oh so polite, and never say what you really mean, especially when in mixed company.
This is another recently written novel based on the works of Jane Austen, an author📚 who actually lived in the Regency era.
This novel has the Bennet sisters and their spouses in it. The only remaining unwed sister is Mary, affectionately known as "mouse" to her sister, Lydia, now married to Mr. Wickham. Having come into money from somewhere, the Wickhams are living in relative splendor in London. Lady Mary is living with them in hopes of finding a husband.
Her sister Lizzy informs Mary that Lydia is developing a flirtation with a Mr. Cole, the son of a squire, who is also a geologist. This threatens to cause a scandal on their family! Mr. Cole wants to be a great orator of geological science, but his lectures are dull, dull, dull.
Lizzy wants Mary to win the tall and handsome Mr Cole, but Mary is not the flirtatious type! Beside her sisters, Mary is mostly ignored by men in favor of her more beautiful and vivacious sisters.
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
This ebook was $5.95 on Amazon 📚at the time of this review.
Opinions expressed here are entirely my own fault!
This delightful novel faithfully tries to recreate the actual way the gentry talked in those days. It was always be, oh so polite, and never say what you really mean, especially when in mixed company.
July 20, 2021
When quiet and pious Mary Bennet travels to London for the Season she hopes to hide in the shadow of her exuberant married sister Lydia. As Lydia’s irrepressible flirting with a Geologist, threatens to explode into scandal, Mary is tasked with distracting the gentleman.
Mary travels on a journey of self-discovery. We glimpse her inner thoughts and learn how sad and neglected her childhood was. The story of the still unfinished doll, was so sad.
Mary goes through a metamorphosis from thin, frumpy and frightened by the smallest hint of conflict. Physically she looks prettier as she stops denying herself food and is dressed by Lydia in fashionable clothes. More important is the transformation of spirit and self-esteem.
Happy to recommend this, especially to those who are fans of Mary Bennet.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Mary travels on a journey of self-discovery. We glimpse her inner thoughts and learn how sad and neglected her childhood was. The story of the still unfinished doll, was so sad.
Mary goes through a metamorphosis from thin, frumpy and frightened by the smallest hint of conflict. Physically she looks prettier as she stops denying herself food and is dressed by Lydia in fashionable clothes. More important is the transformation of spirit and self-esteem.
Happy to recommend this, especially to those who are fans of Mary Bennet.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
September 1, 2021
Avid Reader
This was a delightful Mary who came into her own once she realized that always being quiet didn't mean that everyone was happy and at piece. When Mrs. Holy tried to explain that Mary needed to speak up for herself concerning her diet, she became upset. Then when she started eating better, she started thinking and sleeping better leading to better decisions. After Mary spoke up and saved Betsy, she realized that it was time to let go of her fear of speaking about what was wrong with Lady Lucy, Mr. Cole, Lydia, and Wickham. She finally got her HEA!
This was a delightful Mary who came into her own once she realized that always being quiet didn't mean that everyone was happy and at piece. When Mrs. Holy tried to explain that Mary needed to speak up for herself concerning her diet, she became upset. Then when she started eating better, she started thinking and sleeping better leading to better decisions. After Mary spoke up and saved Betsy, she realized that it was time to let go of her fear of speaking about what was wrong with Lady Lucy, Mr. Cole, Lydia, and Wickham. She finally got her HEA!
August 5, 2023
Excellent reading
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Mary’s growing self-awareness makes for engaging reading,and though not all are as exceedingly shy as Mary, most of us will identify with the quandary of whether or not to interfere in another’s life. Cole is a charming, amusing and ultimately sincere character and becomes a perfect match. The morally ambiguous Wickhams are an interesting study, true to type yet allowed to mature—some what.
The novel is very well written, with an ironic humour and compassionate tone. Highly recommended.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Mary’s growing self-awareness makes for engaging reading,and though not all are as exceedingly shy as Mary, most of us will identify with the quandary of whether or not to interfere in another’s life. Cole is a charming, amusing and ultimately sincere character and becomes a perfect match. The morally ambiguous Wickhams are an interesting study, true to type yet allowed to mature—some what.
The novel is very well written, with an ironic humour and compassionate tone. Highly recommended.
July 27, 2021
This book is so good! It is intriguing, heart-wrenching, heartwarming, and so much more! Whenever I picked up "A Learned Romance", I was whisked back in time, and went on an emotional journey with this story.
This is the first book I have read by Elizabeth Rasche, and it certainly will not be my last. Her writing style is very vivid and jumps right off of the page. She brilliantly weaves characters and storylines of her own creation with some from Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice", and I was hooked from the first page to the last. I feel like many of the characters stayed true to who they are in the original book, and watching their stories continue was so interesting.
This sequel centers mostly around Mary Bennet. When she goes to live with her youngest sister Lydia, and Lydia's husband, Wickham, Mary soon discovers even more of Lydia's flirtatious behavior. Lydia soon begins flirting with a handsome geologist named Mr. Cole. In order to help her family avoid a scandal, Mary takes it upon herself to make it seem like Mr. Cole is interested in her rather than her younger sister.
Mary's character growth throughout this book is so incredible to read. We come to understand many things about Mary due to past moments in this book, in addition to seeing how these experiences impact her life in various ways. As Mary is pushed, she begins to really grow, and searches for happiness. Will Mary get her happily-ever-after? You will just need to read this book to find out.
If you enjoy sequels to "Pride and Prejudice", I definitely recommend this book! It kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next, and I can't wait to see what Ms. Rasche writes next.
Thank you so much to Quills & Quartos Publishing for the ARC of this book, it is amazing! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This is the first book I have read by Elizabeth Rasche, and it certainly will not be my last. Her writing style is very vivid and jumps right off of the page. She brilliantly weaves characters and storylines of her own creation with some from Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice", and I was hooked from the first page to the last. I feel like many of the characters stayed true to who they are in the original book, and watching their stories continue was so interesting.
This sequel centers mostly around Mary Bennet. When she goes to live with her youngest sister Lydia, and Lydia's husband, Wickham, Mary soon discovers even more of Lydia's flirtatious behavior. Lydia soon begins flirting with a handsome geologist named Mr. Cole. In order to help her family avoid a scandal, Mary takes it upon herself to make it seem like Mr. Cole is interested in her rather than her younger sister.
Mary's character growth throughout this book is so incredible to read. We come to understand many things about Mary due to past moments in this book, in addition to seeing how these experiences impact her life in various ways. As Mary is pushed, she begins to really grow, and searches for happiness. Will Mary get her happily-ever-after? You will just need to read this book to find out.
If you enjoy sequels to "Pride and Prejudice", I definitely recommend this book! It kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next, and I can't wait to see what Ms. Rasche writes next.
Thank you so much to Quills & Quartos Publishing for the ARC of this book, it is amazing! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
September 11, 2021
Mary a Surprisingly Excellent Heroine
I have been reading Jane Austen fanfiction for years; it is a particular favorite subgenre of mine. I'm typically not wild about ones that have to do with either Lydia or Mary, as I typically find them one-note characters. But this author did an exceptional job making these two characters much more than they normally are portrayed, certainly in canon and even typically in fanfiction focused on them. The book’s depiction of them intrigued me right away and kept me reading. Mary is staying with the Wickhams in London. Lydia and George's relationship is about what you would imagine, though Wickham has perhaps a bit more understanding what precisely he has gotten into by aligning himself with Lydia—this was cause for several humorous moments in the book. Mary, the heroine of this book, is a revelation in this author's hands. She's not nearly so pedantic as she is in canon, though she is certainly still inherently Mary. She consciously chooses to act differently to see if she will get different results, and Lizzy charges her early on to keep tabs on Lydia and the rumors surrounding her (Lydia) and her flirtatious ways with—of all things—a handsome geologist who often give scientific lectures that Lydia and other ladies of the ton attend. Mary becomes bolder, surprising herself and others. The transformation was fun to watch. I'll let you discover for yourself the twists and turns of the story and the continued shadings of character. If you normally shy away from Pride and Prejudice fanfiction featuring Lydia or Mary, you might find this one as much of a delight as I did.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
I have been reading Jane Austen fanfiction for years; it is a particular favorite subgenre of mine. I'm typically not wild about ones that have to do with either Lydia or Mary, as I typically find them one-note characters. But this author did an exceptional job making these two characters much more than they normally are portrayed, certainly in canon and even typically in fanfiction focused on them. The book’s depiction of them intrigued me right away and kept me reading. Mary is staying with the Wickhams in London. Lydia and George's relationship is about what you would imagine, though Wickham has perhaps a bit more understanding what precisely he has gotten into by aligning himself with Lydia—this was cause for several humorous moments in the book. Mary, the heroine of this book, is a revelation in this author's hands. She's not nearly so pedantic as she is in canon, though she is certainly still inherently Mary. She consciously chooses to act differently to see if she will get different results, and Lizzy charges her early on to keep tabs on Lydia and the rumors surrounding her (Lydia) and her flirtatious ways with—of all things—a handsome geologist who often give scientific lectures that Lydia and other ladies of the ton attend. Mary becomes bolder, surprising herself and others. The transformation was fun to watch. I'll let you discover for yourself the twists and turns of the story and the continued shadings of character. If you normally shy away from Pride and Prejudice fanfiction featuring Lydia or Mary, you might find this one as much of a delight as I did.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
June 28, 2021
A Pride and Prejudice variation centered on the largely unnoticed Miss Mary Bennet, and full of lovely prose, is rare indeed. Thus, the premise of this story greatly intrigued me. It was fascinating to explore the reasons behind Mary's behavior. "It is so hard, declaring my own opinion. [she thought] It made her feel weak and vulnerable, but Mary tried." The depth of her feelings was unexpected, yet made perfect sense, and her feelings were relatable and realistic. Imagine being quiet Mary in the middle of beautiful, witty, and vivacious sisters and feeling insufficient and incapable of ever measuring up. I enjoyed witnessing her gradual evolution, and the romance was sweet, although there was not quite enough of it for my tastes. Compared to the depth of Mary's character, the hero wasn't quite as understandable or likeable, but that may have been because his viewpoint was not shared. A Learned Romance is a fascinating exploration of a little-known Bennet sister learning to love the person she is while striving to become the person she wants to be.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 10, 2021
Mary comes to the Wickham’s so she can spend some time in London and possibly catch a husband. The Wickhams have a townhouse and apparently a LOT of money. Lydia shops constantly and is always planning on ways to spend even more money. I didn’t love how Lydia treated Mary and yet, Mary was Mary and she accepted it. I did love the transformation of Mary and yet it happened agonizingly slowly at times. Being a peacemaker myself I think I understood Mary’s personality in a way others might not. She just wanted people to stop having conflicts but went a little too far in finding ways to achieve her goal. The new character of Mr Cole was difficult to like in the beginning but he grew on my as well. I even had some sympathy for Wickham in this! It’s well written and enjoyable and if you’ve always wanted to see Mary come into her own, this is for you
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 25, 2021
TITLE: The “mouse” transforms to a confident young lady that is an asset for her husband.
I found this to be an unusual variation on Jane Austin’s characters, as it held up for comparison Mary (a reticent, meek young lady) against her vibrant younger sister Lydia, and added a Lady Lucy into the mix. Lydia had rushed into marriage at a young age and had chosen a man of dubious character and uncertain source of funds. She paid a high price for her choice. Lady Lucy was of a similar disposition as Mary, and had also made an unfortunate choice in marriage. In Lady Lucy, we see what COULD happen to Mary if she does not change. Mary’s flowering is a pleasure to observe.
Storyline: 4.5
Character development: 5
Originality: 5
Target audience: all ages
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I found this to be an unusual variation on Jane Austin’s characters, as it held up for comparison Mary (a reticent, meek young lady) against her vibrant younger sister Lydia, and added a Lady Lucy into the mix. Lydia had rushed into marriage at a young age and had chosen a man of dubious character and uncertain source of funds. She paid a high price for her choice. Lady Lucy was of a similar disposition as Mary, and had also made an unfortunate choice in marriage. In Lady Lucy, we see what COULD happen to Mary if she does not change. Mary’s flowering is a pleasure to observe.
Storyline: 4.5
Character development: 5
Originality: 5
Target audience: all ages
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 1, 2021
Mary and Mr. Cole . . .
Mary Bennet held tight to her emotions, wanting to always maintain control. As tightly controlled as Mary was, Lydia was the direct opposite. She was a supreme flirt, and she flirted constantly with Mr. Cole, a geologist, which put her constantly under scrutiny of the gossips.
With the entire family fearing scandal, Mary was assigned the task by Elizabeth of turning Mr. Cole’s attention away from Lydia and toward herself. Can she find a way to do that? She has no experience as a flirt and no idea where to begin.
The part of the story line that most had my attention was seeing the growth in Mary who was too bookish to the point she was not living in the real world. Her task takes her out of her comfort zone, and she can learn more about herself and interacting with others. Will she win the man’s heart as well?
Mary Bennet held tight to her emotions, wanting to always maintain control. As tightly controlled as Mary was, Lydia was the direct opposite. She was a supreme flirt, and she flirted constantly with Mr. Cole, a geologist, which put her constantly under scrutiny of the gossips.
With the entire family fearing scandal, Mary was assigned the task by Elizabeth of turning Mr. Cole’s attention away from Lydia and toward herself. Can she find a way to do that? She has no experience as a flirt and no idea where to begin.
The part of the story line that most had my attention was seeing the growth in Mary who was too bookish to the point she was not living in the real world. Her task takes her out of her comfort zone, and she can learn more about herself and interacting with others. Will she win the man’s heart as well?
August 15, 2021
Mary came to London with Lydia. There she had noticed the continuous impropriety of Mrs. Lydia Wickham. She was being recruited by her sisters to help curb gossips by being attentive to Mr. Cole and draw him away from her youngest (married) sister. There she had observed the other people of London. Initially with some guidance, she tird to draw herself out, aproach Mr. Cole and make conversations. She was trying to imitate Lydia.
This was a delightful story of Mary Bennet. It feels to me her coming out of her shelf, being brave and speak her mind. She had some coaching but in the end I feel she became who she was and more. She knew when to be reticent and when she needs to be vocal. I did love the happy ending for her. She deserved it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a delightful story of Mary Bennet. It feels to me her coming out of her shelf, being brave and speak her mind. She had some coaching but in the end I feel she became who she was and more. She knew when to be reticent and when she needs to be vocal. I did love the happy ending for her. She deserved it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2022
An Interfering Mary
A well written story. I may be the minority here, but I found the Wickhams more interesting than Mary. Yes, Lydia was self-centered and outspoken, but I didn't find her annoying or over the top. Flawed?...most definitely.
The first part of the book held my interest, however, Mary's mission to keep Lydia from Mr. Cole wore thin after a while. I found this Mary to be a bit depressing. It didn't start off that way, but the more I read, the more I thought Mary needs a therapist more than a relationship.
But she eventually got her HEA and her confidence, so good for her.
IMHO- Keeping the way the Wickhams came about their wealth a secret worked for me. I believe if it was mentioned how their money came about (a crooked scheme?) I would feel justice need to be served- and it wasn't about them. The Wickhams were the backstory.
A well written story. I may be the minority here, but I found the Wickhams more interesting than Mary. Yes, Lydia was self-centered and outspoken, but I didn't find her annoying or over the top. Flawed?...most definitely.
The first part of the book held my interest, however, Mary's mission to keep Lydia from Mr. Cole wore thin after a while. I found this Mary to be a bit depressing. It didn't start off that way, but the more I read, the more I thought Mary needs a therapist more than a relationship.
But she eventually got her HEA and her confidence, so good for her.
IMHO- Keeping the way the Wickhams came about their wealth a secret worked for me. I believe if it was mentioned how their money came about (a crooked scheme?) I would feel justice need to be served- and it wasn't about them. The Wickhams were the backstory.
June 16, 2022
I read this some time ago but have been considering my review. The book revolves around Mary Bennet, my favourite sister from Pride & Prejudice. It is extremely well written and most of the characters come to life on the page. Unfortunately this does not include Mary herself or her love interest, at least not for me. Lydia and Wickham play a large part in the story, although not in their usual guise and I frankly found them far more interesting.
Mary does change a great deal in the course of the story and the epilogue is lovely but the story did not make enough of an impression on me that I can remember how she gets there - especially as her love interest is no more than an unappealing cardboard cut out. There is absolutely nothing convincing about the love affair and despite efforts to make him raffish, I felt that yet again poor Mary has been paired up with someone really dull.
Mary does change a great deal in the course of the story and the epilogue is lovely but the story did not make enough of an impression on me that I can remember how she gets there - especially as her love interest is no more than an unappealing cardboard cut out. There is absolutely nothing convincing about the love affair and despite efforts to make him raffish, I felt that yet again poor Mary has been paired up with someone really dull.
September 12, 2021
This is well written story about Mary. She is going through a season and is a bit older then most the debutantes. It is a story of attraction between two people both who are fighting it. She learns a great deal about herself and how to be true to own person in trying to find peace in her life. I will look for more stories by this author. It has a bit of heat but it mostly chaste as it should be during that time period.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 2, 2021
A Pride & Prejudice sequel this is Mary Bennet's story as she goes to live with the newly wealthy Wickham's in London. Mary will grow throughout the story. There is so much happening in this story. I enjoyed reading. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 14, 2022
Mary Bennet
Meh, don't really care for Mary in this story either. Since Wickham did not marry an heiress, their situation seems unlikely and even if it were true, it seems highly unlikely that Mary would consent to living with them, or that Elizabeth would recommend it.
Meh, don't really care for Mary in this story either. Since Wickham did not marry an heiress, their situation seems unlikely and even if it were true, it seems highly unlikely that Mary would consent to living with them, or that Elizabeth would recommend it.
August 23, 2021
I liked it a lot. Mary had a believable transformation but I didn't swoon at her romance. Lydia was faithfully Lydia which was nice.
May 7, 2022
Love this!
Great story, well written, well edited. The character development is new and fresh and I love the Mary comes to the forefront. Well worth the read.
Great story, well written, well edited. The character development is new and fresh and I love the Mary comes to the forefront. Well worth the read.
February 16, 2024
Loved it, but loathed Kitty's husband!
November 13, 2021
Mary always lands jaff's meanest jerks for some reason.
August 5, 2021
Mary Bennett is the last of the Bennett girls to marry. Can she risk her happiness her peace? Living with Lydia is no easy task. Sacrificing herself to keep peace has always worked before as a younger person, but can it also work as an adult?
I found this book very enthralling. It wasn't suspenseful in a whodunit way. Just wanting to know what happened in the end to each character. I am glad she chose Mary. Mary seems to get over looked quite a bit.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I found this book very enthralling. It wasn't suspenseful in a whodunit way. Just wanting to know what happened in the end to each character. I am glad she chose Mary. Mary seems to get over looked quite a bit.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 29, 2023
This was a really interesting book about Mary Bennet and her coming into her own and out o her shell. This was my first book by this author and I enjoyed how she wrote all the characters. Lydia and Whickham seemed to genuinely care about each other and had a seemingly good relationship and I felt as though this Wickham while still having some tricks up his sleeve off the page he was mellower and may have improved himself in some respects. I really enjoyed seeing Mary's character evolve as the story progressed and her friendship / romance with Mr. Richard Cole.
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