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Through the Lens of a Letter: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
When Elizabeth Bennet finds a letter from Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy to the second daughter in a family of Bennets, she believes it to be nothing more than a practical joke—after all, the letter is peopled with unfamiliar names. Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy’s arrival, however, shifts her perspective drastically, causing her to question herself, her family, and the things she thought she knew about the world.
Fitzwilliam Darcy had few expectations of pleasure in accompanying Charles Bingley to survey his new property. However, Hertfordshire would provide more than refuge or companionship. Instead, a certain impoverished gentlewoman opens his eyes to flaws in his relationships, his methods—even his very character.
Join our beloved canon characters as they embark on a journey of self-discovery with ripples that affect the lives of their family and friends. Through it all, they find that lasting change, though hard, is the pathway to greater happiness, and that they are stronger together.
All because of a piece of the future.
Fitzwilliam Darcy had few expectations of pleasure in accompanying Charles Bingley to survey his new property. However, Hertfordshire would provide more than refuge or companionship. Instead, a certain impoverished gentlewoman opens his eyes to flaws in his relationships, his methods—even his very character.
Join our beloved canon characters as they embark on a journey of self-discovery with ripples that affect the lives of their family and friends. Through it all, they find that lasting change, though hard, is the pathway to greater happiness, and that they are stronger together.
All because of a piece of the future.
590 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 29, 2021
51 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Frerichs
4 books8 followersElizabeth Frerichs read A Little Princess by Frances Hodgeson Burnett at age five and fell in love with the world of books. She plunked out her first story on a typewriter around that time and has been composing her own stories off and on since then. A stay-at-home mom, she began writing again when health challenges provided forced down-time. Now she crams writing into all her oodles of spare time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
October 15, 2021
Words, lots of words
Darcy’s letter to Lizzy after the parish proposal is sent back in time and lands at her feet a few days before Bingley takes possession of Netherfied Park. The hand of fate sent the letter back in time.
Between the letter and advice from Aunt Gardiner, Lizzy and her sisters decide they are miserable because they have unequal affection from their parents and everyone is scared to death about being in the poorhouse poor should their father die.
From this point on there much talk about what type of person they should marry and how awful all the customs of their society are. Much, much talk. Too much talk.
The old unimproved Darcy is not much fun to be around and he knows he didn’t write the letter so who forged it and why? Much, much more talk.
Mr. Bennet isn’t very happy being thought of as scum of the earth by his family so he goes on a vacation, gives all of the estate books to Lizzy and tells her she is in charge. Much, much talk ensues.
By this time the Bennet sisters have talked enough that they form a philosophy cult and move away. I made that last part up but I wouldn’t have been surprised if it had happened.
The rest of the book is about talking and everyone trying to get to a new normal.
I didn’t enjoy it very much but my tastes are random enough that others may very well enjoy it immensely. It’s a Kindle Unlimited so there is that.
Darcy’s letter to Lizzy after the parish proposal is sent back in time and lands at her feet a few days before Bingley takes possession of Netherfied Park. The hand of fate sent the letter back in time.
Between the letter and advice from Aunt Gardiner, Lizzy and her sisters decide they are miserable because they have unequal affection from their parents and everyone is scared to death about being in the poorhouse poor should their father die.
From this point on there much talk about what type of person they should marry and how awful all the customs of their society are. Much, much talk. Too much talk.
The old unimproved Darcy is not much fun to be around and he knows he didn’t write the letter so who forged it and why? Much, much more talk.
Mr. Bennet isn’t very happy being thought of as scum of the earth by his family so he goes on a vacation, gives all of the estate books to Lizzy and tells her she is in charge. Much, much talk ensues.
By this time the Bennet sisters have talked enough that they form a philosophy cult and move away. I made that last part up but I wouldn’t have been surprised if it had happened.
The rest of the book is about talking and everyone trying to get to a new normal.
I didn’t enjoy it very much but my tastes are random enough that others may very well enjoy it immensely. It’s a Kindle Unlimited so there is that.
March 16, 2022
I just finished this and decided that if I didn't review it right away, I would not ever review this very impressive story. Before I actually start my review proper, I want to say there are so many really good parts of this story and I truly hope to see more from this author. I hope she can take the worst reviews out there with a grain of salt and the better reviews as some helpful advice.
For me, the story was 5+*. The execution was possibly 3* at times but 4* at other times, and even 5* a few times. It was very, very long, which-my fault-didn't realize going in. I wouldn't have started it when I did if I had realized ahead of time that it was 590 pages. What I mean by too long is this: The book could've been tightened up, too many repeated thoughts and even actions. There were too many 21st century phrases and words, even modern ways of looking at behavior and character and action. They were not ignorant back then of course, but coloring behaviors and attitudes with such contemporary psychological meaning is now a product of popular psychology and philosophy. This also added to the length. And the repetition I mentioned sometimes felt like it was a lesson trying to smack me on the head in order to absorb it. JAFF readers are quicker than this.
The length was not the only reason I found this book difficult to read. I really do like the kind of trope where Elizabeth, or she and her sister Jane would take the Bennet sisters under her/their wings and come together to overcome a difficult situation; one or both parents dead, etc. I never wanted so badly to kick Mr. Bennet in the backside, hard! Or slap Mrs. Bennet and Lydia. Gracious, it was a physical need I had while reading this. It was that or wanting to throw my phone across the room, (too expensive!) This Mr. Bennet was just about the worst I had ever seen him written, and I've read some pretty awful ones. Lydia was like watching a train wreck, although I did like her quite a bit later on. And like I said above, Lydia is just one of the reasons I gave the story a 5* rating. So, it was hard to read at times for many reasons (story related) but relating more of them would lead to spoilers.
Elizabeth finding the letter in quesiton lead to all her future difficulties as she looks at her family from an outsider's point of view, even though the entire existence of the letter itself seems like a rude joke. All of these difficulties end up shaping her into a different, stronger, and more caring person therefore willing and able to help her sisters change, all becoming closer, stronger, braver, and more caring themselves. The letter led Elizabeth to observe differently Bingley's conversation with her mother and Mr. Darcy, (the 'are you going to stick around these parts or are you going to leave us hoping another rich guy will occupy Netherfield' question,) about hearing a suggestion and running with it as a fine idea and then deciding to stay where he was merely because someone else asked it of him. The situation was canon, but her response was different. And that led Bingley to start listening to his own opinions about Hartfordshire and Jane Bennet in particular. Elizabeth's foreknowledge from the letter also contributed to her relationship with her father, but her father's reaction to Elizabeth's request for protecting her sisters and mother was basically this: A Temper Tantrum of Epic Proportions.
The story had a satisfactory end. I'm glad the author did not allow a single apology from Mr. Bennet to make everything 'sunshine and flowers.' At 96% the Bennet sisters are having their now traditional evening talk, this time the night before the wedding. After questioned the two eldest sisters explained why they were not worried about marrying and it is actually Mary who responds with "It is far more practical than the romance novels one reads." Lydia responds that "I wish it was more like a romance novel, where the hero is never untrustworthy and the hero and heroine live happily ever after" And Kitty (!) responds, " I think it is because getting married is the end of the story in romance novels,............Everything seems easy when the couple finally marries, as though getting married makes everything easier, but that is because it is the end of the book." And it is no surprise that Lizzy responds with "When in reality, it is just the beginning of their story." The author gives us enough time with ODC before the wedding to make us believe that their marriage is going to be happily ever after but with plenty of mistakes and arguments and making those mistakes right.
I do recommend this book, so much better if you are a speed reader. And taking the above observations into account.
For me, the story was 5+*. The execution was possibly 3* at times but 4* at other times, and even 5* a few times. It was very, very long, which-my fault-didn't realize going in. I wouldn't have started it when I did if I had realized ahead of time that it was 590 pages. What I mean by too long is this: The book could've been tightened up, too many repeated thoughts and even actions. There were too many 21st century phrases and words, even modern ways of looking at behavior and character and action. They were not ignorant back then of course, but coloring behaviors and attitudes with such contemporary psychological meaning is now a product of popular psychology and philosophy. This also added to the length. And the repetition I mentioned sometimes felt like it was a lesson trying to smack me on the head in order to absorb it. JAFF readers are quicker than this.
The length was not the only reason I found this book difficult to read. I really do like the kind of trope where Elizabeth, or she and her sister Jane would take the Bennet sisters under her/their wings and come together to overcome a difficult situation; one or both parents dead, etc. I never wanted so badly to kick Mr. Bennet in the backside, hard! Or slap Mrs. Bennet and Lydia. Gracious, it was a physical need I had while reading this. It was that or wanting to throw my phone across the room, (too expensive!) This Mr. Bennet was just about the worst I had ever seen him written, and I've read some pretty awful ones. Lydia was like watching a train wreck, although I did like her quite a bit later on. And like I said above, Lydia is just one of the reasons I gave the story a 5* rating. So, it was hard to read at times for many reasons (story related) but relating more of them would lead to spoilers.
Elizabeth finding the letter in quesiton lead to all her future difficulties as she looks at her family from an outsider's point of view, even though the entire existence of the letter itself seems like a rude joke. All of these difficulties end up shaping her into a different, stronger, and more caring person therefore willing and able to help her sisters change, all becoming closer, stronger, braver, and more caring themselves. The letter led Elizabeth to observe differently Bingley's conversation with her mother and Mr. Darcy, (the 'are you going to stick around these parts or are you going to leave us hoping another rich guy will occupy Netherfield' question,) about hearing a suggestion and running with it as a fine idea and then deciding to stay where he was merely because someone else asked it of him. The situation was canon, but her response was different. And that led Bingley to start listening to his own opinions about Hartfordshire and Jane Bennet in particular. Elizabeth's foreknowledge from the letter also contributed to her relationship with her father, but her father's reaction to Elizabeth's request for protecting her sisters and mother was basically this: A Temper Tantrum of Epic Proportions.
The story had a satisfactory end. I'm glad the author did not allow a single apology from Mr. Bennet to make everything 'sunshine and flowers.' At 96% the Bennet sisters are having their now traditional evening talk, this time the night before the wedding. After questioned the two eldest sisters explained why they were not worried about marrying and it is actually Mary who responds with "It is far more practical than the romance novels one reads." Lydia responds that "I wish it was more like a romance novel, where the hero is never untrustworthy and the hero and heroine live happily ever after" And Kitty (!) responds, " I think it is because getting married is the end of the story in romance novels,............Everything seems easy when the couple finally marries, as though getting married makes everything easier, but that is because it is the end of the book." And it is no surprise that Lizzy responds with "When in reality, it is just the beginning of their story." The author gives us enough time with ODC before the wedding to make us believe that their marriage is going to be happily ever after but with plenty of mistakes and arguments and making those mistakes right.
I do recommend this book, so much better if you are a speed reader. And taking the above observations into account.
October 4, 2021
Not for me
I read PP variations for ODC and unfortunately for me this novel is mostly about the Bennet sisters persevering in the face of a derelict father (unrealistic feministic overtones for the time period, btw). Very little, if any romance for ODC. Only unnecessarily long, tedious conversations that belabor a point to death. The dialogue is so wordy and pedantic its as if every character has a touch of Collins or Mary in them. Near the end I had to skim just to finish this overly long and boring tale.
I read PP variations for ODC and unfortunately for me this novel is mostly about the Bennet sisters persevering in the face of a derelict father (unrealistic feministic overtones for the time period, btw). Very little, if any romance for ODC. Only unnecessarily long, tedious conversations that belabor a point to death. The dialogue is so wordy and pedantic its as if every character has a touch of Collins or Mary in them. Near the end I had to skim just to finish this overly long and boring tale.
November 30, 2021
I read this as a work in progress and got the kindle version. The premise is an interesting thought experiment and I enjoyed this a lot on a chapter by chapter basis. Worth a reread although when reading cover-to-cover it strikes me as a bit wordy and the characters have the same thoughts repeatedly.
November 19, 2023
Providence intervention
Mysteriously,a letter appears and things change in interesting ways. A lot of introspection going around for most of the characters. An extremely entertaining proposition.
Mysteriously,a letter appears and things change in interesting ways. A lot of introspection going around for most of the characters. An extremely entertaining proposition.
December 9, 2021
Repetitive and verbose slog…
… nevertheless I’m giving it three stars. At first I made notes of problems but eventually I got tired of it. See other reviews that comment on the unnecessary length - I agree that a good 100 to 200 pages could have been edited out, yet there is good stuff here also. If you have the patience, the book is interesting. If you don’t, I understand completely.
… nevertheless I’m giving it three stars. At first I made notes of problems but eventually I got tired of it. See other reviews that comment on the unnecessary length - I agree that a good 100 to 200 pages could have been edited out, yet there is good stuff here also. If you have the patience, the book is interesting. If you don’t, I understand completely.
October 14, 2021
The premise of the story is unreal but an interesting take nonetheless. I enjoyed the first half the book very much I felt the last half dragged a bit and was a bit repetitive with the theme of the story. This made it a long end for me.
April 8, 2024
A study of bonds and behaviour
I found it somewhat slow to get into, but once I got fully immersed into the story, it was difficult to set it aside. What an interesting perspective this book brings to the typical variation! Elizabeth's self-reflection, spawned by the Letter, brings about maturity in most of her family. There were some errors, but on the whole, the book was well-written. This was the first book that I've read from Ms Frerichs, and with this introduction, it won't be the last.
I found it somewhat slow to get into, but once I got fully immersed into the story, it was difficult to set it aside. What an interesting perspective this book brings to the typical variation! Elizabeth's self-reflection, spawned by the Letter, brings about maturity in most of her family. There were some errors, but on the whole, the book was well-written. This was the first book that I've read from Ms Frerichs, and with this introduction, it won't be the last.
Want to read
November 25, 2021Free on Kindle today!
I read through a few reviews, and nothing was mentioned of it being either clean or steamy. It's 590 Kindle pages! Several didn't care for it, but I read the spoiler-y review, and I think I might enjoy it.
If anyone knows that it is NOT clean/chaste, please give me a heads-up!
I read through a few reviews, and nothing was mentioned of it being either clean or steamy. It's 590 Kindle pages! Several didn't care for it, but I read the spoiler-y review, and I think I might enjoy it.
If anyone knows that it is NOT clean/chaste, please give me a heads-up!
November 12, 2023
I have a bad memory but I thought I had read this years ago and was trying to slog my way through. Turns out it was December 2021 when I had a serious health crisis and hospitalization.
I have no memory of how this book eventually turns out but I’m done trying to make my way through it again.
I have no memory of how this book eventually turns out but I’m done trying to make my way through it again.
October 1, 2021
One of my favorites!
I loved the self awareness and character growth that many of the characters go through. I felt there were many real life take-aways and I loved seeing the unity of the sisters after they began their self reflection. Lovely!
I loved the self awareness and character growth that many of the characters go through. I felt there were many real life take-aways and I loved seeing the unity of the sisters after they began their self reflection. Lovely!
December 17, 2021
Longer than I expected. I expected a forewarned of future events/ early resolution kind of book, but it was an introspective book in which there was character development for all our characters, there were no perfect characters, there was no “villian” of the story, they were all multi-faceted characters with development without dragging on needlessly. Of course it’s ODC oriented but it takes second place to the development of the characters and the connections between them.
At first, Elizabeth didn’t credit any of the events mentioned in the letter as she knew nothing of the bingleys or the darcys or Wickham, but after learning that a mr. Bingley is leasing netherfield, she starts to see her family from the pov of the letter writer, that lack of propriety they exhibited, but she was just spectator, judging their actions wishing they were different.
After meeting Wickham and hearing his lies, she decides to confront Darcy about the letter to learn if her family and neighbors are in danger from Wickham.
Darcy doesn’t believe that someone who knows neither of them would doubt Wickham, so Elizabeth provides the letter as the source of her knowledge, he accuses her of trying to blackmail him and forcing a compromise and they have the ‘hunsford’ confrontation but without the actual proposal.
Elizabeth then sees that she was with her family one of the reasons why Darcy would wish to separate bingley from Jane. And she finally understands her mother fears that they would end up destitute as their family would drive away most suitors and they don’t have enough accomplishments to get positions as companions or governesses.
She talks to her father about improving longbourn such that they can save for the future, which he doesn’t take kindly and leaves her the management of longbourn as she thinks she can do a better job.
At first, Elizabeth didn’t credit any of the events mentioned in the letter as she knew nothing of the bingleys or the darcys or Wickham, but after learning that a mr. Bingley is leasing netherfield, she starts to see her family from the pov of the letter writer, that lack of propriety they exhibited, but she was just spectator, judging their actions wishing they were different.
After meeting Wickham and hearing his lies, she decides to confront Darcy about the letter to learn if her family and neighbors are in danger from Wickham.
Darcy doesn’t believe that someone who knows neither of them would doubt Wickham, so Elizabeth provides the letter as the source of her knowledge, he accuses her of trying to blackmail him and forcing a compromise and they have the ‘hunsford’ confrontation but without the actual proposal.
Elizabeth then sees that she was with her family one of the reasons why Darcy would wish to separate bingley from Jane. And she finally understands her mother fears that they would end up destitute as their family would drive away most suitors and they don’t have enough accomplishments to get positions as companions or governesses.
She talks to her father about improving longbourn such that they can save for the future, which he doesn’t take kindly and leaves her the management of longbourn as she thinks she can do a better job.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2021
This Pride and Prejudice variation starts with the premise that the post Hunsford letter that Fitzwilliam Darcy writes to Elizabeth Bennet is burnt rather than delivered in April, but somehow shows up for her the September prior (from the future). The contents of the letter starts Elizabeth down a path of self discovery even before meeting the persons mentioned inside.
While the plot does have its usual chain of Darcy/Elizabeth events, it is altered by her knowledge. More to the story is Elizabeth understanding herself and her family. The author spends just as much if not more time with the Bennet sisters actually listening to each other and becoming supportive and close. Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are also forced to evaluate their sense of self as well.
More than our dear couple find their happy if not their happily ever after.
While the plot does have its usual chain of Darcy/Elizabeth events, it is altered by her knowledge. More to the story is Elizabeth understanding herself and her family. The author spends just as much if not more time with the Bennet sisters actually listening to each other and becoming supportive and close. Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are also forced to evaluate their sense of self as well.
More than our dear couple find their happy if not their happily ever after.
November 29, 2021
quite extraordinary
A hint of magical realism initiates an alternative narrative for the cast of Pride and Prejudice. The characters remain true to the canon, but the providential Letter turns their experience onto a new trajectory. It has tremendous breadth as all relationships are subject to change and development. The interpersonal insights owe more to the modern world than the Regency society, But they are valid non the less, as the author is able to couch them in terms of historical images and metaphors. Kitty, Mary and Georgiana have more fully developed roles than the original, whilst we see less of some characters and more of others. At heart it is a romance that takes as it’s themes healing and redemption.
A hint of magical realism initiates an alternative narrative for the cast of Pride and Prejudice. The characters remain true to the canon, but the providential Letter turns their experience onto a new trajectory. It has tremendous breadth as all relationships are subject to change and development. The interpersonal insights owe more to the modern world than the Regency society, But they are valid non the less, as the author is able to couch them in terms of historical images and metaphors. Kitty, Mary and Georgiana have more fully developed roles than the original, whilst we see less of some characters and more of others. At heart it is a romance that takes as it’s themes healing and redemption.
December 11, 2021
10th April 1812, While at Rosings Darcy has had his proposal to Elizabeth Bennet refused, and so he writes a letter explaining his actions but it disappears.
19th September 1811, while walking on Oakham Mount Elizabeth Bennet discovers a letter. How will this change her and her families future.
I enjoyed this story as it was not just about Darcy and Elizabeth
19th September 1811, while walking on Oakham Mount Elizabeth Bennet discovers a letter. How will this change her and her families future.
I enjoyed this story as it was not just about Darcy and Elizabeth
September 11, 2022
I loved this book, I didn’t really see the problems everybody else in the reviews talked about like repetitiveness or the book being too long. However, I do wish it had centered a little more on romance & ODC in general.
October 11, 2021
lovely
A really unique and interesting premise in this variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Elizabeth Frerichs. I enjoyed it
A really unique and interesting premise in this variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Elizabeth Frerichs. I enjoyed it
October 3, 2021
Good Variation
Excellent book! I love the idea of how pre-knowledge affects change in this story line. I also like how the author has a clear message while staying true to ODC.
Excellent book! I love the idea of how pre-knowledge affects change in this story line. I also like how the author has a clear message while staying true to ODC.
December 28, 2021
So good
This is one of the longest P&P variations I’ve come across. And as someone who has hyperfixed on P&P variations the past 15 months. I’ve read literally hundreds of variations.
So if your looking for a really chunky book to get lost in this is perfect. Even though it was long it didn’t feel needlessly drawn out. I enjoyed following the story and the pacing.
This is one of the longest P&P variations I’ve come across. And as someone who has hyperfixed on P&P variations the past 15 months. I’ve read literally hundreds of variations.
So if your looking for a really chunky book to get lost in this is perfect. Even though it was long it didn’t feel needlessly drawn out. I enjoyed following the story and the pacing.
October 24, 2021
Wonderful variation
Elizabeth finds a letter on her walk from a person she's unfamiliar with about events that haven't happened yet. She knows no one named Bingley, Darcy , or Wickham and the events recounted in the letter are not familiar. As she walks home she learns that a Bingley has leased Netherfield. First idea that sometime is happening. Many of the actual events still occur but we have a more obnoxious Darcy and a more thoughtful Elizabeth. Because of the letter she's gained a bit of knowledge regarding Wickhams reasons for telling her his story after knowing her for less than an hour. She's able to see what Darcy's looks are about and its not to find fault. A great deal of this story is about abandonment, both physical and the emotional. Bingley and Darcy did the physical abandonment but Mr Bennet has done the emotional part and his actions regarding his family have hurt all. When called out by Mr Gardiner for this he leaves. He dumped the running of Longbourne onto Elizabeth's lap and goes to visit a University friend for an undetermined length of time. The girls have to band together to manage both Mrs Bennet and Longbourne.
I found the level of pain these 5 young women go through stressful but it brings them closer together. Even Lydia gets a jolt of reckoning because of her near elopement with Wickham and turns towards her sisters and eventually even Georgiana who was his previous victim. I enjoyed reading this very much especially when we only had to deal with Lady Catherine and the Collins' long distance.
Elizabeth finds a letter on her walk from a person she's unfamiliar with about events that haven't happened yet. She knows no one named Bingley, Darcy , or Wickham and the events recounted in the letter are not familiar. As she walks home she learns that a Bingley has leased Netherfield. First idea that sometime is happening. Many of the actual events still occur but we have a more obnoxious Darcy and a more thoughtful Elizabeth. Because of the letter she's gained a bit of knowledge regarding Wickhams reasons for telling her his story after knowing her for less than an hour. She's able to see what Darcy's looks are about and its not to find fault. A great deal of this story is about abandonment, both physical and the emotional. Bingley and Darcy did the physical abandonment but Mr Bennet has done the emotional part and his actions regarding his family have hurt all. When called out by Mr Gardiner for this he leaves. He dumped the running of Longbourne onto Elizabeth's lap and goes to visit a University friend for an undetermined length of time. The girls have to band together to manage both Mrs Bennet and Longbourne.
I found the level of pain these 5 young women go through stressful but it brings them closer together. Even Lydia gets a jolt of reckoning because of her near elopement with Wickham and turns towards her sisters and eventually even Georgiana who was his previous victim. I enjoyed reading this very much especially when we only had to deal with Lady Catherine and the Collins' long distance.
November 3, 2021
Changes all around
While the Letter served as a catalyst, I really enjoyed how the characters each worked through the changes in their lives individually. As one who tends to be much like Mr. Bennet in the sense of not being proactive at making things better, I found myself reflecting a great deal on where I could take responsibility and make some changes myself.
While the Letter served as a catalyst, I really enjoyed how the characters each worked through the changes in their lives individually. As one who tends to be much like Mr. Bennet in the sense of not being proactive at making things better, I found myself reflecting a great deal on where I could take responsibility and make some changes myself.
December 12, 2021
For those who enjoy a deeper dive
This book is clearly a labor of love, like one long therapy session. Some may prefer lighter fare, but I truly enjoyed the journey, and the reliance on the magic of “ providence” as its vehicle.
This book is clearly a labor of love, like one long therapy session. Some may prefer lighter fare, but I truly enjoyed the journey, and the reliance on the magic of “ providence” as its vehicle.
May 29, 2022
It was excellent flowed very easily I absolutly loved it the mysterious letter....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2022
I have enjoyed reading this book! So sweet!
Other reviews have commented on the verbosity of the story, often in a negative way. But to be completely frank, I cannot agree much with the negative takes. While the story is indeed more verbose than it perhaps needs to be objectively, personally I think that's more because the ratio of action versus talk is too uneven. Maybe there needed to be more action to even it out, I couldn't say. (That's the reason I can't give the book 5 stars in all fairness.)
But. All that introspection and the discussions between characters felt necessary to me, since my impression is that the author wanted to take the readers on a journey to watch closely the character development and growth of most of the P&P ensemble when given an adequate impetus. It was certainly a slow build, and admittedly that is not to everyone's taste, however.
(God knows slow build drive me insane sometimes, especially in romances, since some authors take it too far and stretch it out beyond reason and common sense. Thankfully that was not the case here. The slow build was mainly focused on the *familial relationships*, mainly between the Bennet sisters, and it was enjoyable, even if it felt like a slow walk through muddy roads sometimes.)
The reason I started reading this book was due to reading somewhere that it contained a scene where Mr Bennet hands over the ledgers and the running of Longbourn to an utterly unprepared Elizabeth and then abandons the family to go live with friends of his. That petty and childish act was enough to rouse my curiosity. And contrary to what I thought, that scene didn't happen years pre-canon, but rather after the Netherfield party decamped. Puts a whole different spin on things.
The Gardiners weren't much present in the story, but it was their support and advice to Elizabeth that sets things in motion. Mrs Gardiner's advice helps Lizzy overcome the flaws in herself that are partly the reason why she is not close with her other sisters, and once she sees things more clearly, she sees the harm her father's attitude is doing to the family. But when Mr Gardiner takes Mr Bennet to task over it, Mr Bennet essentially throws a tantrum, hands Longbourn's running over to Elizabeth in a petulant "Here, let's see you try to do better if you don't like how I run things" gesture without even giving her all the tools she needs, expecting her to fail, and then he decamps to an old professor friend in Cambridge.
Of course not only does Lizzy *not* fail, she does in three months what Mr Bennet wouldn't in two decades. And not because she's a genius or any such thing, but because she does her research, has the help of all her sisters, and eventually Darcy. (Who by then has returned to try to win her affections.)
The divergent point from canon for this story however, is of magical origin: During one of her walks in September, way before Netherfield is rented by Bingley, Elizabeth finds Darcy's Hunsford letter. At first she thinks it is some sort of prank, but when the people mentioned in the letter prove to be real people, she is reasonably scared. It's this letter and how people react to its existence and contents that change things. Elizabeth sees her family differently, due to the letter. But she also sees the danger of Bingley's lack of resolution. That is why the canon discussion in Netherfield about Bingley leaving at the drop of a hat goes differently, with Elizabeth taking a stance on resolution and being his own man being more important. This is important, because it is this conversation that leads to Bingley returning to Netherfield in February, unprompted. And Darcy, having had several eye-opening conversations with Georgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam, returns with him.
Another change wrought is that this Elizabeth, already forewarned by the letter, writes to her aunt Gardiner requesting information on Wickham. That good lady writes back with a letter from a friend in Derbyshire enclosed that details Wickham's crimes. With this, and eyes wide open to Wickham's body language, Elizabeth doesn't fall for his tale of woe. And she is arranges for rumours to spread to curtail his usual actions in Meryton. Wickham's attempt to get revenge on her by using Lydia do not succeed though, thanks to the help from Bingley, Darcy, and Colonel Foster. And that eye-opening event is what helps Lydia mature and see things differently.
What it all amounts is a close bond between all Bennet sisters (and Georgiana, once Darcy brings her back to Hertfordshire to meet them), a more equal friendship between Darcy and Bingley, a Jane who has taken off her rose-coloured glasses and so is makes Bingley work for her renewed trust (she's irreversibly shaken by her father's abandonment), and a Darcy and Bingley who are viewed as reliable brothers by the Bennet girls.
Those things are what the book builds up to, and why it's such an enjoyable read, in my opinion.
I would certainly recommend this book. (Except I would also warn about it not being a light and speedy read, since that needs to be taken into account.)
Other reviews have commented on the verbosity of the story, often in a negative way. But to be completely frank, I cannot agree much with the negative takes. While the story is indeed more verbose than it perhaps needs to be objectively, personally I think that's more because the ratio of action versus talk is too uneven. Maybe there needed to be more action to even it out, I couldn't say. (That's the reason I can't give the book 5 stars in all fairness.)
But. All that introspection and the discussions between characters felt necessary to me, since my impression is that the author wanted to take the readers on a journey to watch closely the character development and growth of most of the P&P ensemble when given an adequate impetus. It was certainly a slow build, and admittedly that is not to everyone's taste, however.
(God knows slow build drive me insane sometimes, especially in romances, since some authors take it too far and stretch it out beyond reason and common sense. Thankfully that was not the case here. The slow build was mainly focused on the *familial relationships*, mainly between the Bennet sisters, and it was enjoyable, even if it felt like a slow walk through muddy roads sometimes.)
The reason I started reading this book was due to reading somewhere that it contained a scene where Mr Bennet hands over the ledgers and the running of Longbourn to an utterly unprepared Elizabeth and then abandons the family to go live with friends of his. That petty and childish act was enough to rouse my curiosity. And contrary to what I thought, that scene didn't happen years pre-canon, but rather after the Netherfield party decamped. Puts a whole different spin on things.
The Gardiners weren't much present in the story, but it was their support and advice to Elizabeth that sets things in motion. Mrs Gardiner's advice helps Lizzy overcome the flaws in herself that are partly the reason why she is not close with her other sisters, and once she sees things more clearly, she sees the harm her father's attitude is doing to the family. But when Mr Gardiner takes Mr Bennet to task over it, Mr Bennet essentially throws a tantrum, hands Longbourn's running over to Elizabeth in a petulant "Here, let's see you try to do better if you don't like how I run things" gesture without even giving her all the tools she needs, expecting her to fail, and then he decamps to an old professor friend in Cambridge.
Of course not only does Lizzy *not* fail, she does in three months what Mr Bennet wouldn't in two decades. And not because she's a genius or any such thing, but because she does her research, has the help of all her sisters, and eventually Darcy. (Who by then has returned to try to win her affections.)
The divergent point from canon for this story however, is of magical origin: During one of her walks in September, way before Netherfield is rented by Bingley, Elizabeth finds Darcy's Hunsford letter. At first she thinks it is some sort of prank, but when the people mentioned in the letter prove to be real people, she is reasonably scared. It's this letter and how people react to its existence and contents that change things. Elizabeth sees her family differently, due to the letter. But she also sees the danger of Bingley's lack of resolution. That is why the canon discussion in Netherfield about Bingley leaving at the drop of a hat goes differently, with Elizabeth taking a stance on resolution and being his own man being more important. This is important, because it is this conversation that leads to Bingley returning to Netherfield in February, unprompted. And Darcy, having had several eye-opening conversations with Georgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam, returns with him.
Another change wrought is that this Elizabeth, already forewarned by the letter, writes to her aunt Gardiner requesting information on Wickham. That good lady writes back with a letter from a friend in Derbyshire enclosed that details Wickham's crimes. With this, and eyes wide open to Wickham's body language, Elizabeth doesn't fall for his tale of woe. And she is arranges for rumours to spread to curtail his usual actions in Meryton. Wickham's attempt to get revenge on her by using Lydia do not succeed though, thanks to the help from Bingley, Darcy, and Colonel Foster. And that eye-opening event is what helps Lydia mature and see things differently.
What it all amounts is a close bond between all Bennet sisters (and Georgiana, once Darcy brings her back to Hertfordshire to meet them), a more equal friendship between Darcy and Bingley, a Jane who has taken off her rose-coloured glasses and so is makes Bingley work for her renewed trust (she's irreversibly shaken by her father's abandonment), and a Darcy and Bingley who are viewed as reliable brothers by the Bennet girls.
Those things are what the book builds up to, and why it's such an enjoyable read, in my opinion.
I would certainly recommend this book. (Except I would also warn about it not being a light and speedy read, since that needs to be taken into account.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2024
Wonderful, but long
After the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, Darcy writes his letter of explanation to Elizabeth. What if, through some supernatural occurrence and Providence, that letter were to travel back in time to the September before the arrival in Hertfordshire of the Bingleys and Darcy, and the letter is discovered by Elizabeth while out for a ramble on Oakham Mount? She examines the letter, which has no addressee, and eventually determines that it's about her own family, but involves persons she's never heard of. She keeps the letter private, and finds that some of the events in it come to pass in the coming months.
The issue of the Bennett family's impropriety is spelled out to Elizabeth, as is Wickham's perfidy. The letter causes Elizabeth much introspection and eventual action to affect change in her family. When she does meet Mr Wickham, her reaction to his tales of woe is altered as she has an insight to his true character. These reactions on Elizabeth's part to the letter cause a chain reaction of improvements and life altering occurrences.
The book is well written and well edited. It's an interesting premise. I was a bit disappointed in the impression I got that Darcy had to be convinced by both Colonel Fitzwilliam and Lord Matlock that he should go ahead and pursue Elizabeth. It didn't exactly seem as if it was a love for the ages that had him throwing caution to the winds and going after his true love. Rather, it seemed that he needed permission from someone in society before he'd take the risk. After he does make the decision, however, the romance was lovely.
Some judicious editing could have shortened this book without sacrificing integrity. However, I recommend it highly for an interesting and engaging story.
After the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, Darcy writes his letter of explanation to Elizabeth. What if, through some supernatural occurrence and Providence, that letter were to travel back in time to the September before the arrival in Hertfordshire of the Bingleys and Darcy, and the letter is discovered by Elizabeth while out for a ramble on Oakham Mount? She examines the letter, which has no addressee, and eventually determines that it's about her own family, but involves persons she's never heard of. She keeps the letter private, and finds that some of the events in it come to pass in the coming months.
The issue of the Bennett family's impropriety is spelled out to Elizabeth, as is Wickham's perfidy. The letter causes Elizabeth much introspection and eventual action to affect change in her family. When she does meet Mr Wickham, her reaction to his tales of woe is altered as she has an insight to his true character. These reactions on Elizabeth's part to the letter cause a chain reaction of improvements and life altering occurrences.
The book is well written and well edited. It's an interesting premise. I was a bit disappointed in the impression I got that Darcy had to be convinced by both Colonel Fitzwilliam and Lord Matlock that he should go ahead and pursue Elizabeth. It didn't exactly seem as if it was a love for the ages that had him throwing caution to the winds and going after his true love. Rather, it seemed that he needed permission from someone in society before he'd take the risk. After he does make the decision, however, the romance was lovely.
Some judicious editing could have shortened this book without sacrificing integrity. However, I recommend it highly for an interesting and engaging story.
January 30, 2022
A more likable Elizabeth
The Providential Letter is a great starter, however unlikely, and the character development is excellent. In many variations I’ve read, I can honestly say I don’t much like Lizzy. If I were to meet those Lizzies, I would probably avoid her too sharp words, hidden barbs, and unkindness disguised as “impertinence”. This Lizzy comes to own her faults and faces honestly how her words and actions or lack of actions might affect others. Her insights into herself, encouraged by Aunt Gardiner, spur efforts to change for the better and to treat others with the consideration she would like to receive.
The Providential Letter is a great starter, however unlikely, and the character development is excellent. In many variations I’ve read, I can honestly say I don’t much like Lizzy. If I were to meet those Lizzies, I would probably avoid her too sharp words, hidden barbs, and unkindness disguised as “impertinence”. This Lizzy comes to own her faults and faces honestly how her words and actions or lack of actions might affect others. Her insights into herself, encouraged by Aunt Gardiner, spur efforts to change for the better and to treat others with the consideration she would like to receive.
June 23, 2025
(notes) So amazingly well written and thought out. It was basically therapy for the soul. I highlighted so many amazing passages and phrases, but they were well worth remembering. I love how much growth there was without making anything dull or drawn out. I had a few moments in the first third of the book where I questioned where things might go, but it lasted three pages before I found it picked back up and I had forgotten I had felt a drag at all. That was likely more my adhd than the story itself. I think some of the other time-travely variations I've read lately have spoiled me, because I wasn't expecting it to be so deep, but I didn't miss the levity I had originally been anticipating.
June 8, 2024
Some unexpected twists
A different P&P, all the characters are present, but all are different from canon. In this, Mr.B leaves Longbourne in a fit of pique and the Bennet sisters are forced together to keep Longbourne going. Along the way, each sister grows, the sisterly bond is strengthened. Of course, Bingley and Darcy are in the mix as well. I found this entertaining, but sometimes the Darcy and Mr.B characters were quite stubbornly irritating.
A different P&P, all the characters are present, but all are different from canon. In this, Mr.B leaves Longbourne in a fit of pique and the Bennet sisters are forced together to keep Longbourne going. Along the way, each sister grows, the sisterly bond is strengthened. Of course, Bingley and Darcy are in the mix as well. I found this entertaining, but sometimes the Darcy and Mr.B characters were quite stubbornly irritating.
February 15, 2022
Interesting detour of canon
Book 1 was a good refresher of the original story from where this book began with a few twists that lent itself to the nature of this story. Book 2 took off on the character evaluations from a different perspective along with introspective evaluations of each character.
Book 1 was a good refresher of the original story from where this book began with a few twists that lent itself to the nature of this story. Book 2 took off on the character evaluations from a different perspective along with introspective evaluations of each character.
February 14, 2024
Excellent variation. Frerichs makes interesting and ultimately satisfying use of the "lost letter" (dated in the future) device. There's a lot of character growth, particularly notable with Lydia and Mr. Bennet. The book is long, but that's because character changes are incremental and well-developed.
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