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In Default of Heirs Male
Longbourn estate in Hertfordshire, home of the Bennet family, is entailed. Armed with this unfortunate knowledge, the females of the family have long lived with the threat of eviction from their beloved home should Mr. Bennet pass away before his time.
When the unthinkable happens, the Bennet ladies prepare to leave their home as the heir arrives to take control of his inheritance. Salvation comes, however, by the most surprising of Mrs. Bennet is with child.
While waiting for the child to be born, Elizabeth takes control over the estate, determined to save as much as possible in the brief season she has been given. Fortunately, the Netherfield party arrives, and the attentions of the new master of the estate bring them all to hope that Jane, at least, will achieve her heart’s desire.
But little does Elizabeth know she is also the subject of a gentleman’s interest, for Mr. Darcy sees her as an excellent woman who is eager to uphold the trust with which her father favored her. Despite his feelings, Elizabeth is slow to understand the love that might be within her grasp, as she struggles with her duty under the specter of the heir, who believes the Bennets have cheated him of his inheritance and will do whatever he can to ensure he gets what he believes is his.
When the unthinkable happens, the Bennet ladies prepare to leave their home as the heir arrives to take control of his inheritance. Salvation comes, however, by the most surprising of Mrs. Bennet is with child.
While waiting for the child to be born, Elizabeth takes control over the estate, determined to save as much as possible in the brief season she has been given. Fortunately, the Netherfield party arrives, and the attentions of the new master of the estate bring them all to hope that Jane, at least, will achieve her heart’s desire.
But little does Elizabeth know she is also the subject of a gentleman’s interest, for Mr. Darcy sees her as an excellent woman who is eager to uphold the trust with which her father favored her. Despite his feelings, Elizabeth is slow to understand the love that might be within her grasp, as she struggles with her duty under the specter of the heir, who believes the Bennets have cheated him of his inheritance and will do whatever he can to ensure he gets what he believes is his.
364 pages, Paperback
Published May 20, 2021
114 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Jann Rowland
87 books192 followersJann Rowland is a Canadian, born and bred. Other than a two-year span in which he lived in Japan, he has been a resident of the Great White North his entire life, though he professes to still hate the winters.
Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OneGoodSonnetPub...
Twitter: @OneGoodSonnet
Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bol2p9
Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OneGoodSonnetPub...
Twitter: @OneGoodSonnet
Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bol2p9
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
May 25, 2021
Mrs. Bennet is with child!
Rating: MA: PG 17: adult discussions, violence and attempted violence: Angst Level: medium-to-high: Tissues: keep a box handy. Dang, Rowland, you made me cry. Source: KU 5-21-21: Spoiler Alert: This review may contain *** Spoilers ***
The worst had happened at Longbourn and an express was sent to notify Mr. Collins of the death of his cousin Bennet. On the day he arrived, Mr. Jones, the apothecary, was visiting Mrs. Bennet upstairs. Collins met with Mr. Philips, Mr. Gardiner, and Elizabeth in the Longbourn bookroom. Mr. Collins did not impress them with his manner nor did they appreciate his disrespect for the grieving ladies of the house. Mr. Jones soon joined them and quickly squashed Collins’ plan to immediately take possession of ‘his inheritance.’ Mrs. Bennet was with child and several months along. Collins did not take the news well. He showed out big time and both Philips and Gardiner let him know just where the law stood on such matters. He would have to wait for the birth of the child. If it was a male, he would inherit over Collins when he reached his majority. Collins was sure the women were trying to defraud him and keep Longbourn from him. He wanted, no, he demanded they leave immediately. Instead, Mr. Collins left Hertfordshire empty-handed.
This was an amazing story. I teared up several times. I also liked the juxtaposition with the characters leasing the nearby estates of Netherfield Park and Purvis Lodge. Rowland pulled a sneaky fast one at the Meryton Assembly. When the Netherfield party arrived, I thought… WAIT… WHAT? That description doesn’t ring true. LOL! What a fun surprise. I loved it. That group was so much fun. I loved every single one of them. Their presence totally changed the dynamics of the story and the community. The Bennet ladies were now in half-mourning and the assembly would be their first foray back into society. Jane Bennet’s beauty was duly noted by one in the Netherfield party and they quickly garnered her hand for the first dance of the night.
Elizabeth had been put in charge of Longbourn and worked with the steward [hired by her uncle] in hopes of putting right those situations her father had neglected. When she started receiving nasty letters from Collins, she sent them to her uncles to handle. It was improper for Collins, a bachelor, to write to a house full of single women.
It was after the Assembly before the Purvis Lodge party arrived. The new residence had accepted the invitation to the assembly and had given all indications that they would attend. Not only did they not show, no apology, nor a word of explanation was sent. Bad form. That slight did not go over well with the denizens of Meryton. From the beginning, the Purvis Lodge party was two to three steps behind the Netherfield party and was never able to make it up. The pernicious sister kept her brother running in circles to the point he was behind at every turn. She was a holy terror and everyone within ten miles of Meryton knew exactly how she felt about them, how she felt about the area, and that she did not want to be there.
Letters continued arriving from Hunsford, each more threatening than the last. Extra footmen were hired to protect the women. The stable hands were put on alert in case there was trouble. Elizabeth was doing well and continued as the de facto master of Longbourn. Collins was horrified that a ‘woman’ was running the estate and demanded that they allow him [a man] to take over the helm. The fact he had no estate management experience seemed to elude him. He felt that she couldn’t possibly know what to do and would run the estate… his estate into the ground.
The Netherfield party was front and center with help for the Bennet ladies. Jane Bennet’s beauty and serene nature were noticed, appreciated, and soon a heart was falling in love. The relationship between Elizabeth and another of that party did not run as smoothly. Of course, the ladies were in mourning so the rules had to be followed.
I really enjoyed the relationship between the Bennet sisters. Not being in society, and their mother otherwise occupied, helped the younger girls to calm down. They had the example of their elder sisters and their aunt Gardiner to rely on and watched as they handled situations. They knew that Collins was a threat to them all. Especially when he showed up unannounced on their front stoop. OMG! That was a nightmare.
Lady Catherine came to Hertfordshire to make her sentiments known. Collins had failed to inform his patroness of a small pertinent aspect of his inheritance and she was not best pleased to be misled by him. I LOVED this lady. OMG! I know. She could be a holy terror and yet, she was such a solid backing for the Bennet ladies. That was well done on Rowland’s part. I just loved her. She delivered a few ‘Come-to-Jesus’ conversations with several people. In one particular discussion, a decades-old desire had to finally be put to rest. She was such a force to be reckoned with. I just loved her.
It was a long story and several places could have been trimmed… a lot. For a while, we had to deal with a stupid Elizabeth. I hate a stupid Elizabeth trope. She’s supposed to be so smart and intelligent and yet she was tunnel-focused to the point that she couldn’t see the love blossoming right in front of her eyes. It took a heart-to-heart… well, actually it was more like a ‘Hey! What’s your problem?’ conversation from a younger sister. LOL! The epilogue was years in the future. Heavy sigh! Tissues!! I highly recommend this.
Rating: MA: PG 17: adult discussions, violence and attempted violence: Angst Level: medium-to-high: Tissues: keep a box handy. Dang, Rowland, you made me cry. Source: KU 5-21-21: Spoiler Alert: This review may contain *** Spoilers ***
The worst had happened at Longbourn and an express was sent to notify Mr. Collins of the death of his cousin Bennet. On the day he arrived, Mr. Jones, the apothecary, was visiting Mrs. Bennet upstairs. Collins met with Mr. Philips, Mr. Gardiner, and Elizabeth in the Longbourn bookroom. Mr. Collins did not impress them with his manner nor did they appreciate his disrespect for the grieving ladies of the house. Mr. Jones soon joined them and quickly squashed Collins’ plan to immediately take possession of ‘his inheritance.’ Mrs. Bennet was with child and several months along. Collins did not take the news well. He showed out big time and both Philips and Gardiner let him know just where the law stood on such matters. He would have to wait for the birth of the child. If it was a male, he would inherit over Collins when he reached his majority. Collins was sure the women were trying to defraud him and keep Longbourn from him. He wanted, no, he demanded they leave immediately. Instead, Mr. Collins left Hertfordshire empty-handed.
This was an amazing story. I teared up several times. I also liked the juxtaposition with the characters leasing the nearby estates of Netherfield Park and Purvis Lodge. Rowland pulled a sneaky fast one at the Meryton Assembly. When the Netherfield party arrived, I thought… WAIT… WHAT? That description doesn’t ring true. LOL! What a fun surprise. I loved it. That group was so much fun. I loved every single one of them. Their presence totally changed the dynamics of the story and the community. The Bennet ladies were now in half-mourning and the assembly would be their first foray back into society. Jane Bennet’s beauty was duly noted by one in the Netherfield party and they quickly garnered her hand for the first dance of the night.
Elizabeth had been put in charge of Longbourn and worked with the steward [hired by her uncle] in hopes of putting right those situations her father had neglected. When she started receiving nasty letters from Collins, she sent them to her uncles to handle. It was improper for Collins, a bachelor, to write to a house full of single women.
It was after the Assembly before the Purvis Lodge party arrived. The new residence had accepted the invitation to the assembly and had given all indications that they would attend. Not only did they not show, no apology, nor a word of explanation was sent. Bad form. That slight did not go over well with the denizens of Meryton. From the beginning, the Purvis Lodge party was two to three steps behind the Netherfield party and was never able to make it up. The pernicious sister kept her brother running in circles to the point he was behind at every turn. She was a holy terror and everyone within ten miles of Meryton knew exactly how she felt about them, how she felt about the area, and that she did not want to be there.
Letters continued arriving from Hunsford, each more threatening than the last. Extra footmen were hired to protect the women. The stable hands were put on alert in case there was trouble. Elizabeth was doing well and continued as the de facto master of Longbourn. Collins was horrified that a ‘woman’ was running the estate and demanded that they allow him [a man] to take over the helm. The fact he had no estate management experience seemed to elude him. He felt that she couldn’t possibly know what to do and would run the estate… his estate into the ground.
The Netherfield party was front and center with help for the Bennet ladies. Jane Bennet’s beauty and serene nature were noticed, appreciated, and soon a heart was falling in love. The relationship between Elizabeth and another of that party did not run as smoothly. Of course, the ladies were in mourning so the rules had to be followed.
I really enjoyed the relationship between the Bennet sisters. Not being in society, and their mother otherwise occupied, helped the younger girls to calm down. They had the example of their elder sisters and their aunt Gardiner to rely on and watched as they handled situations. They knew that Collins was a threat to them all. Especially when he showed up unannounced on their front stoop. OMG! That was a nightmare.
Lady Catherine came to Hertfordshire to make her sentiments known. Collins had failed to inform his patroness of a small pertinent aspect of his inheritance and she was not best pleased to be misled by him. I LOVED this lady. OMG! I know. She could be a holy terror and yet, she was such a solid backing for the Bennet ladies. That was well done on Rowland’s part. I just loved her. She delivered a few ‘Come-to-Jesus’ conversations with several people. In one particular discussion, a decades-old desire had to finally be put to rest. She was such a force to be reckoned with. I just loved her.
It was a long story and several places could have been trimmed… a lot. For a while, we had to deal with a stupid Elizabeth. I hate a stupid Elizabeth trope. She’s supposed to be so smart and intelligent and yet she was tunnel-focused to the point that she couldn’t see the love blossoming right in front of her eyes. It took a heart-to-heart… well, actually it was more like a ‘Hey! What’s your problem?’ conversation from a younger sister. LOL! The epilogue was years in the future. Heavy sigh! Tissues!! I highly recommend this.
July 4, 2022
Finally! Another gem from JR (after a few less than stellar books) He shakes things up a bit in the canon recipe, in an interesting way.
There are 2 new families to the neighborhood, following Mr. Bennet's death and the sisters are just out of full mourning. They get to meet one family at the assembly and hit it off.
Jane Bennet especially with one of the gentleman and Elizabeth with the ladies. (we only find out later who this family is). There is a long section of neighbors enjoying each others company, getting to know them better etc. With some challenges thrown in of Miss Bingley and Mr. Collins.
About half way through there is a large scene that was written so well, that even though it is not one of the happy ones, it is the best part of the book.
The story moves along from there in a manner as expected, with a few hiccups, ending quite satisfying.
A definite reread.
There are 2 new families to the neighborhood, following Mr. Bennet's death and the sisters are just out of full mourning. They get to meet one family at the assembly and hit it off.
Jane Bennet especially with one of the gentleman and Elizabeth with the ladies. (we only find out later who this family is). There is a long section of neighbors enjoying each others company, getting to know them better etc. With some challenges thrown in of Miss Bingley and Mr. Collins.
About half way through there is a large scene that was written so well, that even though it is not one of the happy ones, it is the best part of the book.
The story moves along from there in a manner as expected, with a few hiccups, ending quite satisfying.
A definite reread.
May 29, 2021
I have read many of this author's stories and enjoyed all of them. This has to be one of the best.
As the blurb informs us, Mr. Bennet dies, but when the "heir", Mr. Collins arrives it is discovered that Mrs. Bennet is enceinte. So Collins is informed that until the birth of that child he cannot take over/move into the estate. Much of this tale focuses on his reaction and then continued harassment of the ladies, claiming that they are cheating him. He doesn't even bow to his patroness' advice on the subject. She shows up, due to his lies, but then reverses her support when she learns the truth. This is a Lady Catherine you have to love, even with the matter of Darcy's supposed engagement to Anne.
There are several changes from canon, which I will allow you to discover for yourself. They involve the leasing of Netherfield and to whom Jane finds herself attached.
You may, like me, want to reach in and shake Elizabeth. She is so determined to believe that Darcy cannot allow himself to fall in love with a lady who has no wealth, no connections and who is acting in what is usually a man's traditional role that she ignores all the signs which others, close to her, have to finally point out to her.
The Bennet sisters, for the most part, circle around and support each other during the months while awaiting the birth of their last sibling. I did like some of those changes.
Wickham, thinking Elizabeth owns Longbourn, is after the "heiress" so he makes his presence known in this tale. And you know, you must know, that Caroline definitely has her say. I liked how the author dealt with both of them. Collins has a different handling and is OOC here but I enjoyed reading that also.
This is a story I highly recommend. It is not a short story so allow time if you have a problem putting down a page-turner. Yes, there is some angst but it is tolerable.
As the blurb informs us, Mr. Bennet dies, but when the "heir", Mr. Collins arrives it is discovered that Mrs. Bennet is enceinte. So Collins is informed that until the birth of that child he cannot take over/move into the estate. Much of this tale focuses on his reaction and then continued harassment of the ladies, claiming that they are cheating him. He doesn't even bow to his patroness' advice on the subject. She shows up, due to his lies, but then reverses her support when she learns the truth. This is a Lady Catherine you have to love, even with the matter of Darcy's supposed engagement to Anne.
There are several changes from canon, which I will allow you to discover for yourself. They involve the leasing of Netherfield and to whom Jane finds herself attached.
You may, like me, want to reach in and shake Elizabeth. She is so determined to believe that Darcy cannot allow himself to fall in love with a lady who has no wealth, no connections and who is acting in what is usually a man's traditional role that she ignores all the signs which others, close to her, have to finally point out to her.
The Bennet sisters, for the most part, circle around and support each other during the months while awaiting the birth of their last sibling. I did like some of those changes.
Wickham, thinking Elizabeth owns Longbourn, is after the "heiress" so he makes his presence known in this tale. And you know, you must know, that Caroline definitely has her say. I liked how the author dealt with both of them. Collins has a different handling and is OOC here but I enjoyed reading that also.
This is a story I highly recommend. It is not a short story so allow time if you have a problem putting down a page-turner. Yes, there is some angst but it is tolerable.
February 11, 2022
This will be a Rowland Favorite
A very different premise to the usual beginning of Pride and Prejudice variations. In this tale, two estates are leased. The tenants of each will be somewhat of a surprise. I found this to be one of Rowland’s best written stories. I loved how the Bennet sisters all came together during a time of tragedy and grief, and the pressures from the evil Mr. Collins. The usual character portrayals are also quite different, except for ODC. Elizabeth was quite obtuse when it came to recognizing Darcy’s affections. Elizabeth gives someone a fabulous set down, but it isn’t Darcy. Lydia and Lady Catherine were quite likable. The book got a bit long towards the end, but overall it was very good. I found the ending pages of the Epilogue especially moving. This is the kind of story I love from Jan Rowland. I can happily recommend this one.
A very different premise to the usual beginning of Pride and Prejudice variations. In this tale, two estates are leased. The tenants of each will be somewhat of a surprise. I found this to be one of Rowland’s best written stories. I loved how the Bennet sisters all came together during a time of tragedy and grief, and the pressures from the evil Mr. Collins. The usual character portrayals are also quite different, except for ODC. Elizabeth was quite obtuse when it came to recognizing Darcy’s affections. Elizabeth gives someone a fabulous set down, but it isn’t Darcy. Lydia and Lady Catherine were quite likable. The book got a bit long towards the end, but overall it was very good. I found the ending pages of the Epilogue especially moving. This is the kind of story I love from Jan Rowland. I can happily recommend this one.
June 27, 2021
Where’s the romance?
Other reviewers must be seeing something I’ve missed on this one. I would have stopped reading 30 pages in if the plot hadn’t been interesting. Jann Rowland has a very clunky writing style that I soon grew tired of. He makes paragraph long sentences by tacking on a ridiculous number of phrases with commas. Seriously- some of his sentences will have six or seven commas. He also constructs sentences that seem to say the exact opposite of what he meant based on the context. At one point he says that a statement is a non sequitur, but the statement directly addressed a question asked in the previous sentence.
He also made his characters perfect and relied on the plot to provide all of the conflict. There is no pride or prejudice in this version. There’s also zero romance. Darcy makes zero effort to woo Elizabeth and then is hurt that she had no idea he was interested. Elizabeth is told by other characters 14,584 times that Darcy is interested, but she still acts shocked by the idea until the very end. This Lizzy isn’t very smart or perceptive. One could expect a subdued Lizzy based on her being in mourning, but her sparkling personality is entirely missing. We never see any banter between our favorite couple, and we rarely even get to know what they are talking about. We are told more than shown that Darcy is interested. What made me very angry is that I read 384 pages and didn’t even get an admission of love or a proposal. The book ends with Lizzy saying she would try to love Darcy after she engages in some out of character shocking behavior. Then the epilogue messily ties the loose ends together.
The dialogue is what weighs the book down. The characters have the same exact same discussions over and over. If we cut out the repetition the book might be 200 pages shorter. The characters also backtrack constantly. Do you plan to offer for Jane? I’m not decided. Twenty pages later... Do you plan to offer for Jane? Yes! My mind is made up! Thirty pages later... Do you plan to offer for Jane? I’m still deciding. Ugh!!!! The characters are also entirely too candid about discussing marriage prospects. It was hard to suspend belief at the Darcy and Fitzwilliam family’s lack of pride and openness in discussing who Darcy and Fitzwilliam might marry.
The book could have been great if the author had a sharp editor. This is my fourth book by Jann Rowland and none of them have earned more than a three star rating from me, so I think I’ll be skipping this author in the future.
Other reviewers must be seeing something I’ve missed on this one. I would have stopped reading 30 pages in if the plot hadn’t been interesting. Jann Rowland has a very clunky writing style that I soon grew tired of. He makes paragraph long sentences by tacking on a ridiculous number of phrases with commas. Seriously- some of his sentences will have six or seven commas. He also constructs sentences that seem to say the exact opposite of what he meant based on the context. At one point he says that a statement is a non sequitur, but the statement directly addressed a question asked in the previous sentence.
He also made his characters perfect and relied on the plot to provide all of the conflict. There is no pride or prejudice in this version. There’s also zero romance. Darcy makes zero effort to woo Elizabeth and then is hurt that she had no idea he was interested. Elizabeth is told by other characters 14,584 times that Darcy is interested, but she still acts shocked by the idea until the very end. This Lizzy isn’t very smart or perceptive. One could expect a subdued Lizzy based on her being in mourning, but her sparkling personality is entirely missing. We never see any banter between our favorite couple, and we rarely even get to know what they are talking about. We are told more than shown that Darcy is interested. What made me very angry is that I read 384 pages and didn’t even get an admission of love or a proposal. The book ends with Lizzy saying she would try to love Darcy after she engages in some out of character shocking behavior. Then the epilogue messily ties the loose ends together.
The dialogue is what weighs the book down. The characters have the same exact same discussions over and over. If we cut out the repetition the book might be 200 pages shorter. The characters also backtrack constantly. Do you plan to offer for Jane? I’m not decided. Twenty pages later... Do you plan to offer for Jane? Yes! My mind is made up! Thirty pages later... Do you plan to offer for Jane? I’m still deciding. Ugh!!!! The characters are also entirely too candid about discussing marriage prospects. It was hard to suspend belief at the Darcy and Fitzwilliam family’s lack of pride and openness in discussing who Darcy and Fitzwilliam might marry.
The book could have been great if the author had a sharp editor. This is my fourth book by Jann Rowland and none of them have earned more than a three star rating from me, so I think I’ll be skipping this author in the future.
January 23, 2022
3.5 stars. The story went on way too long after Darcy & Elizabeth have their HEA. I ended up skipping the last 5 chapters. Writing was excellent I’ll look for other books by this author.
August 4, 2021
What if the reality of the entail changed the Bennet daughters futures
Very well written story. I found very easy to enjoy. I did think Lizzy’s self blindness merging with her obstinacy went on too long. There is a notable lack of super villains in the story which is very nice. In stead of BIG villains the story is all about the Bennet daughters and their journeys to adulthood. Lydia’s journey is very original and is eye opening the arrival of her maturity.
This will go into the reread-able pile.
Very well written story. I found very easy to enjoy. I did think Lizzy’s self blindness merging with her obstinacy went on too long. There is a notable lack of super villains in the story which is very nice. In stead of BIG villains the story is all about the Bennet daughters and their journeys to adulthood. Lydia’s journey is very original and is eye opening the arrival of her maturity.
This will go into the reread-able pile.
May 27, 2021
Avid Reader
This book was awesome! Mrs. Bennet loses her life giving birth to the Bennet heir, but it's Collins ' refusal to acknowledge that Longbourn was no longer his that sets everyone on edge. Why does he keep hounding Elizabeth and threatening to throw the Bennet sisters out? Lady Catherine is the only surviving Fitzwilliam guiding the younger generation, but even she comes to realize that something is wrong. Colonel Fitzwilliam , Darcy, Georgina, Anne, and Lady Charity rent Netherfield and the Hursts and Bingleys rent Purvis Lodge. The Bennet sisters become friends with the Netherfield neighbors, but the Netherfield neighbors despise Caroline Bingley and don't respect Bingley as a man. Elizabeth is so caught up in managing Longbourn and making it better for her brother that she can't see that Darcy is in love with her. She really is slow in this one!
This book was awesome! Mrs. Bennet loses her life giving birth to the Bennet heir, but it's Collins ' refusal to acknowledge that Longbourn was no longer his that sets everyone on edge. Why does he keep hounding Elizabeth and threatening to throw the Bennet sisters out? Lady Catherine is the only surviving Fitzwilliam guiding the younger generation, but even she comes to realize that something is wrong. Colonel Fitzwilliam , Darcy, Georgina, Anne, and Lady Charity rent Netherfield and the Hursts and Bingleys rent Purvis Lodge. The Bennet sisters become friends with the Netherfield neighbors, but the Netherfield neighbors despise Caroline Bingley and don't respect Bingley as a man. Elizabeth is so caught up in managing Longbourn and making it better for her brother that she can't see that Darcy is in love with her. She really is slow in this one!
June 5, 2021
I loved it!
It made me cry, it gave me warm fuzzies, it made me anxious... All the signs of a compelling story.
Things I didn't like :
- the renaming of Purvis Lodge to Pulvis Lodge.
Things I liked:
- I always love a good pairing of Jane and someone deserving who is not Bingley
- Caroline's comeuppance s
- Lady Catherine
- all of the Darcys and FitzWilliams
- Lydia
-Bingley eventually grew his resolve
- the epilogue
It made me cry, it gave me warm fuzzies, it made me anxious... All the signs of a compelling story.
Things I didn't like :
- the renaming of Purvis Lodge to Pulvis Lodge.
Things I liked:
- I always love a good pairing of Jane and someone deserving who is not Bingley
- Caroline's comeuppance s
- Lady Catherine
- all of the Darcys and FitzWilliams
- Lydia
-Bingley eventually grew his resolve
- the epilogue
June 21, 2021
I wanted to like this book; the basic story is interesting and the writing decent. There were some creative re-couplings I didn’t mind, and Lady Catherine was wonderful.
Unfortunately, the story ticks a lot of boxes in my list of JAFF pet peeves. The annoying cartoonish villains fit for Bedlam. The repetitive dialogues. The lack of spark or romance within the couples. Our beloved characters getting a personality transplant and becoming a bunch of gossipy, mean girls. Even Darcy... criticizing his relatives, in front of people he’s just met? Impossible.
Several characters went on and on, throughout the book, about how inferior Miss Bingley would always be because of her birth (i.e. family in trade). I know this is somewhat period-appropriate but Jane Austen did not bang on about it. In fact, she rather mocked those who did. Yet here, even Elizabeth takes part in the pile-on. It was very disappointing.
Unfortunately, the story ticks a lot of boxes in my list of JAFF pet peeves. The annoying cartoonish villains fit for Bedlam. The repetitive dialogues. The lack of spark or romance within the couples. Our beloved characters getting a personality transplant and becoming a bunch of gossipy, mean girls. Even Darcy... criticizing his relatives, in front of people he’s just met? Impossible.
Several characters went on and on, throughout the book, about how inferior Miss Bingley would always be because of her birth (i.e. family in trade). I know this is somewhat period-appropriate but Jane Austen did not bang on about it. In fact, she rather mocked those who did. Yet here, even Elizabeth takes part in the pile-on. It was very disappointing.
June 15, 2021
The premise had a fair bit of promise and could have lead to an interesting plot and character study but sadly all it lead to, was a seemingly endless array of the same conversations on repeat and the same situations occurring over and over and over again.
Elizabeth and Darcy had zero chemistry, neither did Jane with her beau. Instead showing me the developing feelings, I was constantly told about the developing feelings. Instead of making me a part of the relationship between characters, I was given loads of chats about those relationships. For example, there are LOADS of conversations about Jane and viscounts budding feelings but I do not think there was a single private conversation or scene between the couple themselves. I was constantly told how amazing Jane and Lizzy were but (especially in Jane's case) never really shown much proof.
There would have been a great opportunity for the author to give more depth to Mrs Bennet's character and her relationship with her daughters. Instead, she was portrayed as shallow and annoying as ever. All her complaints and concerns about her discomfort due to her pregnancy were mostly dismissed as silly and taxing for everybody around her. I can't really argue with the fact that everybody was mostly concerned about the sex of the baby she was carrying because that rings very much true and would drastically influence the faith of the whole family.
All in all, if 100 pages would be cut, you would hardly notice it and there really is no romance between D. & E.. Sometime towards the end of the book D. finally makes up his mind to pursue E. and is then oh so puzzled and depressed that she doesn't really pay him much special attention.
But the writing wasn't too bad and it didn't actively irritate me so
Elizabeth and Darcy had zero chemistry, neither did Jane with her beau. Instead showing me the developing feelings, I was constantly told about the developing feelings. Instead of making me a part of the relationship between characters, I was given loads of chats about those relationships. For example, there are LOADS of conversations about Jane and viscounts budding feelings but I do not think there was a single private conversation or scene between the couple themselves. I was constantly told how amazing Jane and Lizzy were but (especially in Jane's case) never really shown much proof.
There would have been a great opportunity for the author to give more depth to Mrs Bennet's character and her relationship with her daughters. Instead, she was portrayed as shallow and annoying as ever. All her complaints and concerns about her discomfort due to her pregnancy were mostly dismissed as silly and taxing for everybody around her. I can't really argue with the fact that everybody was mostly concerned about the sex of the baby she was carrying because that rings very much true and would drastically influence the faith of the whole family.
All in all, if 100 pages would be cut, you would hardly notice it and there really is no romance between D. & E.. Sometime towards the end of the book D. finally makes up his mind to pursue E. and is then oh so puzzled and depressed that she doesn't really pay him much special attention.
But the writing wasn't too bad and it didn't actively irritate me so
September 19, 2022
A very interesting premise narrated in a very bland manner. I hate stories where the villains are beyond stupid and in this all three are though they didn't do much villainy except probably Collins (he's the one that made the utmost attempt). They didn't just act stupid but were so dense that they were repeating their folly over and over till you wanted to punch them in the face. The characters lacked depth and the sequences lacked emotion except during the birth of the youngest Bennet, that was well written. Also, speaking of positives, I've to mention the fast one the author pulled on the introduction of the Netherfield party and the portrayal of Lady Catherine. The story is clean but so bleach cleaned that any hint of romance and chemistry died during the process. Somewhat disappointing!
May 22, 2021
Lovely
Another interesting and entertaining variation inspired by author Jane Austen's classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Jane Rowland. Enjoyable read as always.
Another interesting and entertaining variation inspired by author Jane Austen's classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Jane Rowland. Enjoyable read as always.
June 8, 2021
Upon the death of Mr. Bennet, his daughter Elizabeth is put in charge of running Longbourn until the heir can take over. The major plot point is - who will the heir be? The antagonistic cousin, Mr Collins, or the child growing in Mrs Bennet (discovered only after her husband's death).
Additionally to the drama, Richard Fitzwilliam and his extended family have leased Netherfield. They meet the Bennet ladies just as they are coming out of deep mourning for their father and all become friends - even their aunt Lady Catherine de Bourgh.
The Bingley's lease another estate in town and are not good friends, but rather passing acquaintances of the Darcy's.
All this is to set up a story where shared pain, sisterhood, and a huge mental block, create a great novel.
Additionally to the drama, Richard Fitzwilliam and his extended family have leased Netherfield. They meet the Bennet ladies just as they are coming out of deep mourning for their father and all become friends - even their aunt Lady Catherine de Bourgh.
The Bingley's lease another estate in town and are not good friends, but rather passing acquaintances of the Darcy's.
All this is to set up a story where shared pain, sisterhood, and a huge mental block, create a great novel.
January 17, 2023
About 25% in, can’t say I’m enjoying the audio book.
….
Finished audio book. Dear lord I never thought I’d make it through!
I could go on and on about my irritation with the narrator, her monotone and strange cadence, the whistle with the s sounds and the strange way so many words ended with a slight “-th” sound. It has been years since I forced myself to sit through an audio book when the narrator bothered me so much.
As to the book… hello? Anyone ever heard of a red pen? Page after page was ridiculously exhausting in its s——-l——-o——w pace. (And repeatedly are subjected to the irritation of “Pulvis” Lodge. WITAF?) We dive into great detail about not much of any significance as our cast of characters gets to know each other, although we get no real sense of who people are, (beyond friend or foe), with the possible exception of Elizabeth, Caroline Bingley and Mr. Collins. While they differ from canon in many ways, many of the old characters don’t behave in familiar ways, but we don’t get the sense of knowing who they are, other than “different.” We don’t know who the new characters are, in essentials, either - other than friend or foe.
So, what’s the point? This book isn’t a character study, but other than an objective of relaying how the comfort of the residents of Longbourn changed, I don’t really know what the point was.
Spoilers MAY follow:
I’ll save you the trouble of reading the book (and honestly I would hope you wouldn’t consider listening): Elizabeth is a superior Master or Mistress of Longbourn than her parents, adversity forces maturity, and generally life is easier the more money you have. Also, bad people are bad.
….
Finished audio book. Dear lord I never thought I’d make it through!
I could go on and on about my irritation with the narrator, her monotone and strange cadence, the whistle with the s sounds and the strange way so many words ended with a slight “-th” sound. It has been years since I forced myself to sit through an audio book when the narrator bothered me so much.
As to the book… hello? Anyone ever heard of a red pen? Page after page was ridiculously exhausting in its s——-l——-o——w pace. (And repeatedly are subjected to the irritation of “Pulvis” Lodge. WITAF?) We dive into great detail about not much of any significance as our cast of characters gets to know each other, although we get no real sense of who people are, (beyond friend or foe), with the possible exception of Elizabeth, Caroline Bingley and Mr. Collins. While they differ from canon in many ways, many of the old characters don’t behave in familiar ways, but we don’t get the sense of knowing who they are, other than “different.” We don’t know who the new characters are, in essentials, either - other than friend or foe.
So, what’s the point? This book isn’t a character study, but other than an objective of relaying how the comfort of the residents of Longbourn changed, I don’t really know what the point was.
Spoilers MAY follow:
I’ll save you the trouble of reading the book (and honestly I would hope you wouldn’t consider listening): Elizabeth is a superior Master or Mistress of Longbourn than her parents, adversity forces maturity, and generally life is easier the more money you have. Also, bad people are bad.
September 13, 2024
Excellent read
I have to admit to liking stories that divert from canon P&P. Not all, mind. The ones that are too "steamy" that the author prays will sell on explicit sex scenes and no story can be left on the shelf as far as I'm concerned. I like the JAFF books that are fresh, imaginative and unique. This book delivers on all those counts and more. Jann Rowland keeps the story moving forward in a way that keeps one guessing. Ex: Will Mrs. Bennett give birth to the heir or will the ladies of Longbourne lose their home to the disgusting parson Collins? Why is Collins so hellbent on taking ownership of the estate or marrying one of the sisters? I found it interesting how Mr. Rowland wove the tale around these two key problems faces by the girls. In between there is plenty of romance building between a few of the residents of the neighborhood, snark comments from the usual sources and such refreshing changes from canon of the main character's personalities to make this an excellent read. I do hope we get a sequel to this one.
I have to admit to liking stories that divert from canon P&P. Not all, mind. The ones that are too "steamy" that the author prays will sell on explicit sex scenes and no story can be left on the shelf as far as I'm concerned. I like the JAFF books that are fresh, imaginative and unique. This book delivers on all those counts and more. Jann Rowland keeps the story moving forward in a way that keeps one guessing. Ex: Will Mrs. Bennett give birth to the heir or will the ladies of Longbourne lose their home to the disgusting parson Collins? Why is Collins so hellbent on taking ownership of the estate or marrying one of the sisters? I found it interesting how Mr. Rowland wove the tale around these two key problems faces by the girls. In between there is plenty of romance building between a few of the residents of the neighborhood, snark comments from the usual sources and such refreshing changes from canon of the main character's personalities to make this an excellent read. I do hope we get a sequel to this one.
July 23, 2022
I gave this variation four stars despite having problems with it.
The number one problem is he calls Purvis Lodge Pulvis Lodge ALL THE WAY THROUGH THE NOVEL! How can an author make that kind of mistake and not catch it.
There were mistakes like marry for merry and infer when imply would be appropriate.
Legally any child born during a marriage or conceived during one is the husband’s. So Mr Collins bleating about Mrs Bennet’s infidelity doesn’t make any sense.
Lydia seems to be 15 a long time.
I’m not sure, but I don’t think constables were in existence in the Regency era. I’m fairly sure Meryton would not have a ‘prison’ as described.
I did like the relationship of Lady Catherine with everyone and the quick dispatching of Wickham.
The OCs Lady Charity and the young Matlock were delightful as well.
The number one problem is he calls Purvis Lodge Pulvis Lodge ALL THE WAY THROUGH THE NOVEL! How can an author make that kind of mistake and not catch it.
There were mistakes like marry for merry and infer when imply would be appropriate.
Legally any child born during a marriage or conceived during one is the husband’s. So Mr Collins bleating about Mrs Bennet’s infidelity doesn’t make any sense.
Lydia seems to be 15 a long time.
I’m not sure, but I don’t think constables were in existence in the Regency era. I’m fairly sure Meryton would not have a ‘prison’ as described.
I did like the relationship of Lady Catherine with everyone and the quick dispatching of Wickham.
The OCs Lady Charity and the young Matlock were delightful as well.
July 10, 2021
Boring and droll- save your time and don’t read this
This is not a Regency romance or any kind of romance. It was long and wordy, taking a very circuitous way to get to the conclusion dragging out the end of which was very anti-climatic. You could almost predict how it would end and what would happen in every chapter. It was so boring and dull, I struggled my way through it, only to be disappointed by the end. There were many times I thought that I would just give up and stop reading all together. Now I’m off
To find a much better romance novel… hell, even a nonfiction would be more interesting than this book.
This is not a Regency romance or any kind of romance. It was long and wordy, taking a very circuitous way to get to the conclusion dragging out the end of which was very anti-climatic. You could almost predict how it would end and what would happen in every chapter. It was so boring and dull, I struggled my way through it, only to be disappointed by the end. There were many times I thought that I would just give up and stop reading all together. Now I’m off
To find a much better romance novel… hell, even a nonfiction would be more interesting than this book.
February 21, 2025
BORING AF!!
There’s shit happening but they wrote it in way that makes it so so dull
dnf after 75% because I only have this one life
There’s shit happening but they wrote it in way that makes it so so dull
dnf after 75% because I only have this one life
June 28, 2022
While calling this a variation might be a stretch, it is still in the realm of JAFF. Though it breaks from cannon from the very first page the majority of characters are still portrayed to cannon. The ones that aren’t, well if Mr Collins did in fact have such an addiction would he not devolve accordingly? Or would Elizabeth not have ignored everyone & everything at her notion of duty & family?
My only complaint is that, & I’ll concede it’s entirely possible I saw the picture of a man & became a little biased. I didn’t think the book concerned itself overmuch with the actual romance of any of the matches, obviously cuz Mary & her supposed partner would never suit. Instead, it seemed much more familial based that of grief & the Bennett sisters coming together or even the Darcy/ Fitzwilliam clan (Aunt Catherine included) or the Bingley’s. The book seemed to land the majority of its focus of these three separate families, their interconnections, family, loyalty, & legacy. Not to say those are not still excellent topics to write a book about, & I did very much enjoy it. However, taking away some of the silliness & romance made it very un-Austen like.
My only complaint is that, & I’ll concede it’s entirely possible I saw the picture of a man & became a little biased. I didn’t think the book concerned itself overmuch with the actual romance of any of the matches, obviously cuz Mary & her supposed partner would never suit. Instead, it seemed much more familial based that of grief & the Bennett sisters coming together or even the Darcy/ Fitzwilliam clan (Aunt Catherine included) or the Bingley’s. The book seemed to land the majority of its focus of these three separate families, their interconnections, family, loyalty, & legacy. Not to say those are not still excellent topics to write a book about, & I did very much enjoy it. However, taking away some of the silliness & romance made it very un-Austen like.
August 19, 2021
Loved this book. It might be my favorite of Mr Rowland's. I don't want to give anything away but I want to give a shout out of thanks for Lady C and Caroline.
June 8, 2021
DNF 11%
Unfortunately, this just wasn’t for me. I did not think the characters stayed true to themselves (seemed very out of character for some, especially Mr. Darcy), felt there was lots of “telling” instead of “showing” and somehow the author forgets that Darcy’s cousin resigned his commission and is back to being referred to as Colonel Fitzwilliam (unless this is somehow explained later in the book and I simply didn’t find out since I stopped reading).
My highlights/notes probably explain my reasons for not finishing this book better as it comes with specific examples.
Though this writing style is not for me, this doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy it. This authors books tend to be popular so it’s probably just me who doesn’t like this writing style.
Unfortunately, this just wasn’t for me. I did not think the characters stayed true to themselves (seemed very out of character for some, especially Mr. Darcy), felt there was lots of “telling” instead of “showing” and somehow the author forgets that Darcy’s cousin resigned his commission and is back to being referred to as Colonel Fitzwilliam (unless this is somehow explained later in the book and I simply didn’t find out since I stopped reading).
My highlights/notes probably explain my reasons for not finishing this book better as it comes with specific examples.
Though this writing style is not for me, this doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy it. This authors books tend to be popular so it’s probably just me who doesn’t like this writing style.
February 15, 2022
Audible Version..
If I were to rate this story itself, I would give it 3.5 stars. That being said, the narrator of the audio version ruined the book for me. To start, I had to listen to the book at 1.3 speed. Next, the volume needs to be turned up to hear most parts. This causes her strange pronunciation of words to be even more noticeable. For example, every plural is pronounced as if multiple s's have been added. Every d and t ending word is pronounced d-th. She had no inflection and all of her characters spoke in monotone. At points, I couldn't even listen to it because the narration was so bad. I am getting angry just thinking about this, honestly. I never write reviews, but I thought that people considering the audiobook should be warned.
If I were to rate this story itself, I would give it 3.5 stars. That being said, the narrator of the audio version ruined the book for me. To start, I had to listen to the book at 1.3 speed. Next, the volume needs to be turned up to hear most parts. This causes her strange pronunciation of words to be even more noticeable. For example, every plural is pronounced as if multiple s's have been added. Every d and t ending word is pronounced d-th. She had no inflection and all of her characters spoke in monotone. At points, I couldn't even listen to it because the narration was so bad. I am getting angry just thinking about this, honestly. I never write reviews, but I thought that people considering the audiobook should be warned.
January 16, 2022
P&P with “0” passion.
This book started with a surprise twist that I found interesting. That is all I found interesting. There was no passion between Darcy and Elizabeth at all. I gave 2 stars because the author can write but just lost the entire passions of the original characters. Everyone was very vanilla.
This book started with a surprise twist that I found interesting. That is all I found interesting. There was no passion between Darcy and Elizabeth at all. I gave 2 stars because the author can write but just lost the entire passions of the original characters. Everyone was very vanilla.
August 1, 2021
This was a nice twist of a variation that was low angst and an approach to the characters that I hadn't seen before. The initial changes that were made to the storyline were enough to give no real baseline for how the story would progress, so you can't really rely on your typical Pride and Prejudice story knowledge to see how this book plays out. I thought it was predictable, but then that is not necessarily a bad thing and the slow development of a predictable story line I thought was endearing because the author was able to add a lot of emotion, thought, and information while not being boring.
The story starts off with the death of Mr. Bennett, which is a fairly standard variation tactic. I almost didn't read it because of that (I'm not usually a big fan of the stories where everyone is broke and destitute because Mr. Bennett died). However, the author played around with the entailment by providing Mrs. Bennett with a surprise pregnancy that puts the inheritance in question, leaving the Bennett women in charge of Longbourn. The thing that really captured by attention was the Netherfield party - and no it's not the Bingleys! Darcy is there, but so are several of his relatives (which I won't discuss because it would ruin the surprise LOL). The Bingley's do appear just in a different location - and not friends of Darcy, which was a fun surprise. Wickham makes his usual appearance, but with a few changes to his interactions with most of the characters. Lady Catherine also makes an appearance and plays as a strong supporting cast member through most of the story line.
I really liked the 'new' characters they introduced. Most were people we've heard of mentioned but hadn't really met. Several characters had slight personality shifts based on the changes made for the beginning of the story which I thought helped all of them - except Elizabeth. However, the changes in Elizabeth served to further the story and provide some growth for her character and Darcy so I can allow it. I did really like the way Darcy was portrayed in this book. I feel like it is probably the most likable but less...societal...than in the original story. This story is basically what he would be like if he was around Colonel Fitzwilliam all the time (like at Rosings in the original story) instead of Bingley and Caroline.
It was a nice, clean, low angst, slow build variation that I'll probably read again when I want something uplifting when I'm sad. There is a good bit of grief in the book, but it is handled well and provides hope for an improving situation without relying on someone to save them. It was also sweet and the higher society women provided some humor and cheerfulness. I would have loved more Georgiana (I'm a big Georgiana fan) but the rest of the cast made up for it (I also love a strong Anne de Bourgh!). Overall, a pleasant, easy read that I'll remember.
The story starts off with the death of Mr. Bennett, which is a fairly standard variation tactic. I almost didn't read it because of that (I'm not usually a big fan of the stories where everyone is broke and destitute because Mr. Bennett died). However, the author played around with the entailment by providing Mrs. Bennett with a surprise pregnancy that puts the inheritance in question, leaving the Bennett women in charge of Longbourn. The thing that really captured by attention was the Netherfield party - and no it's not the Bingleys! Darcy is there, but so are several of his relatives (which I won't discuss because it would ruin the surprise LOL). The Bingley's do appear just in a different location - and not friends of Darcy, which was a fun surprise. Wickham makes his usual appearance, but with a few changes to his interactions with most of the characters. Lady Catherine also makes an appearance and plays as a strong supporting cast member through most of the story line.
I really liked the 'new' characters they introduced. Most were people we've heard of mentioned but hadn't really met. Several characters had slight personality shifts based on the changes made for the beginning of the story which I thought helped all of them - except Elizabeth. However, the changes in Elizabeth served to further the story and provide some growth for her character and Darcy so I can allow it. I did really like the way Darcy was portrayed in this book. I feel like it is probably the most likable but less...societal...than in the original story. This story is basically what he would be like if he was around Colonel Fitzwilliam all the time (like at Rosings in the original story) instead of Bingley and Caroline.
It was a nice, clean, low angst, slow build variation that I'll probably read again when I want something uplifting when I'm sad. There is a good bit of grief in the book, but it is handled well and provides hope for an improving situation without relying on someone to save them. It was also sweet and the higher society women provided some humor and cheerfulness. I would have loved more Georgiana (I'm a big Georgiana fan) but the rest of the cast made up for it (I also love a strong Anne de Bourgh!). Overall, a pleasant, easy read that I'll remember.
June 22, 2021
Wonderful
So nice to have a book by Mr Rowland that I like, as the last couple of books were a little off for him. As the book summary indicates, Mr Bennett dies, specifying in his will that Elizabeth is to manage the estate until the heir comes to claim it. Mr Collins comes, only to be told that Mrs Bennett has discovered that she's pregnant, therefore delaying his claim to Longbourn until she has her baby in case it's a boy this time. Mr Collins is not happy about this. Meanwhile, Elizabeth takes on the management of Longbourn in earnest.
This time it's Colonel Fitzwilliam who leases Netherfield Park, and he's accompanied by Darcy and Georgiana, Anne DeBourgh, and Fitwilliam's sister, Charity. This is one of those pleasant books where the characters act more like you'd wish them to act. In this case, the Fitzwilliam, Darcy, and DeBourgh families are quite liberal in their attitudes towards people of lower social standing, and become best buddies with the Bennetts, much to the chagrin of Caroline Bingley, whose brother is leasing a different house in the neighborhood.
I love Lady Catherine in this story, which I don't get to say very often. She has a major role throughout, and she's priceless. Mr Collins is diabolical, and Caroline Bingley is impossible, but they both, fortunately, get their comeuppances. The Bennett sisters are more reasonable people, not the cartoonish depictions of the youngest three that you usually see.
I deducted a star for the character of Elizabeth who, while she's her usual intelligent and witty self, shows some unattractive nastiness when first dealing with Caroline Bingley. Elizabeth is unkind to her, and she's supposed to be kind even in the face of adversity. Also, her blindness in the face of Darcy's pursuit of her gets tedious.
However, the romance is lovely, the premise is interesting, the drama is compelling, and the characters are people that we can care about. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
So nice to have a book by Mr Rowland that I like, as the last couple of books were a little off for him. As the book summary indicates, Mr Bennett dies, specifying in his will that Elizabeth is to manage the estate until the heir comes to claim it. Mr Collins comes, only to be told that Mrs Bennett has discovered that she's pregnant, therefore delaying his claim to Longbourn until she has her baby in case it's a boy this time. Mr Collins is not happy about this. Meanwhile, Elizabeth takes on the management of Longbourn in earnest.
This time it's Colonel Fitzwilliam who leases Netherfield Park, and he's accompanied by Darcy and Georgiana, Anne DeBourgh, and Fitwilliam's sister, Charity. This is one of those pleasant books where the characters act more like you'd wish them to act. In this case, the Fitzwilliam, Darcy, and DeBourgh families are quite liberal in their attitudes towards people of lower social standing, and become best buddies with the Bennetts, much to the chagrin of Caroline Bingley, whose brother is leasing a different house in the neighborhood.
I love Lady Catherine in this story, which I don't get to say very often. She has a major role throughout, and she's priceless. Mr Collins is diabolical, and Caroline Bingley is impossible, but they both, fortunately, get their comeuppances. The Bennett sisters are more reasonable people, not the cartoonish depictions of the youngest three that you usually see.
I deducted a star for the character of Elizabeth who, while she's her usual intelligent and witty self, shows some unattractive nastiness when first dealing with Caroline Bingley. Elizabeth is unkind to her, and she's supposed to be kind even in the face of adversity. Also, her blindness in the face of Darcy's pursuit of her gets tedious.
However, the romance is lovely, the premise is interesting, the drama is compelling, and the characters are people that we can care about. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
September 30, 2025
I loved it!
Warning: Meant for mature audiences. Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. Longbourn estate in Hertfordshire, home of the Bennet family, is entailed. Armed with this unfortunate knowledge, the females of the family have long lived with the threat of eviction from their beloved home should Mr. Bennet pass away before his time.
When the unthinkable happens, the Bennet ladies prepare to leave their home as the heir arrives to take control of his inheritance. Salvation comes, however, by the most surprising of news, Mrs. Bennet is with child. While waiting for the child to be born, Elizabeth takes control over the estate, determined to save as much as possible in the brief season she has been given. Fortunately, the Netherfield party arrives, and the attentions of the new master of the estate bring them all to hope that Jane, at least, will achieve her heart’s desire, but little does Elizabeth know she is also the subject of a gentleman’s interest, for Mr. Darcy sees her as an excellent woman who is eager to uphold the trust with which her father favored her.
Despite his feelings, Elizabeth is slow to understand the love that might be within her grasp, as she struggles with her duty under the specter of the heir, who believes the Bennets have cheated him of his inheritance and will do whatever he can to ensure he gets what he believes is his. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
Warning: Meant for mature audiences. Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. Longbourn estate in Hertfordshire, home of the Bennet family, is entailed. Armed with this unfortunate knowledge, the females of the family have long lived with the threat of eviction from their beloved home should Mr. Bennet pass away before his time.
When the unthinkable happens, the Bennet ladies prepare to leave their home as the heir arrives to take control of his inheritance. Salvation comes, however, by the most surprising of news, Mrs. Bennet is with child. While waiting for the child to be born, Elizabeth takes control over the estate, determined to save as much as possible in the brief season she has been given. Fortunately, the Netherfield party arrives, and the attentions of the new master of the estate bring them all to hope that Jane, at least, will achieve her heart’s desire, but little does Elizabeth know she is also the subject of a gentleman’s interest, for Mr. Darcy sees her as an excellent woman who is eager to uphold the trust with which her father favored her.
Despite his feelings, Elizabeth is slow to understand the love that might be within her grasp, as she struggles with her duty under the specter of the heir, who believes the Bennets have cheated him of his inheritance and will do whatever he can to ensure he gets what he believes is his. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
June 4, 2021
A hearty tale with lots of action and interesting turns! I loved the addition of more of the Darcy/Fitzwilliam family, and the slight bend of personalities that kept this a fresh tale. I did think that the Bingley plot was kind of random, and there was definitely more of the intrigue and action related to the entail than in other ones- the focus here was plot, not really characters. This one also felt more focused on Jane's romance than Lizzy, and the Lizzy/Darcy ship seemed a little bit awkward at the end. ALL OF THIS TO SAY: I really did like it! It was a lot different from the ones I usually read, but it was interesting and definitely unique! Looking forward to reading more of Rowland's work.
June 17, 2021
An interesting premise, with some original suppositions that I haven't seen before, such as Darcy and Bingley being mere acquaintences and not really friends.
The villains, Caroline Bingley and Mr Collins, were even more over-the-top and dense than usual, while Lady Catherine was unexpectedly pleasant (and therefore OOC).
The romance, as it were, between Elizabeth and Darcy, seemed quite bloodless, however, and the emotional arc of these two characters wasn't discovering pride and prejudice within themselves and working to eradicate it. Rather, it was a a very simple (and rather detached), "Am I in love? Is the other person in love with me? And will I ever do anything about it?"
I found the epilogue, which focused on an entirely original character, satisfying and moving.
The villains, Caroline Bingley and Mr Collins, were even more over-the-top and dense than usual, while Lady Catherine was unexpectedly pleasant (and therefore OOC).
The romance, as it were, between Elizabeth and Darcy, seemed quite bloodless, however, and the emotional arc of these two characters wasn't discovering pride and prejudice within themselves and working to eradicate it. Rather, it was a a very simple (and rather detached), "Am I in love? Is the other person in love with me? And will I ever do anything about it?"
I found the epilogue, which focused on an entirely original character, satisfying and moving.
June 6, 2021
Best P&P reimagined story I have ever read
I used to do reviews but stopped as they were all sounding the same after awhile. This is the most well written of all and the most entertaining. It was hard to put it down once started. I loved the way the story and all the main characters all seemed to mesh beautifully with some unexpected twists. There is enough angst to keep the reader turning the pages anxiously at times, characters enough to despise and more to love. I have always enjoyed Mr. Rowland’s stories but this topped the list. My thanks to a very talented story teller.
I used to do reviews but stopped as they were all sounding the same after awhile. This is the most well written of all and the most entertaining. It was hard to put it down once started. I loved the way the story and all the main characters all seemed to mesh beautifully with some unexpected twists. There is enough angst to keep the reader turning the pages anxiously at times, characters enough to despise and more to love. I have always enjoyed Mr. Rowland’s stories but this topped the list. My thanks to a very talented story teller.
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