What do you think?
Rate this book
Consequences
Consequences is a cautionary tale about the evils of hasty judgment, revisiting Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice and one of those pivotal moments when Elizabeth Bennet throws away Mr. Darcy's offer of marriage so decisively. What transpires from that point is well known to Austen's extensive readership, but what if even one element in the chain of events in her novel turns out differently? Does Austen's happy ending eventually come to pass, or is the outcome more bleak?
And if, in order to secure financial security for her loved ones, Elizabeth does not reject Darcy, is she married to a proud, arrogant, disdainful man who, as she feared, forces her to deny her own relatives and thus condemns her to a lifetime of misery? Or does she find herself married to a man who cares enough for her to reject the opposition of his family and chance his very standing in society in order to marry a woman he loves beyond measure?
Consequences, written by the author of A Most Civil Proposal, explores two alternate realities-both tragedy and triumph.
And if, in order to secure financial security for her loved ones, Elizabeth does not reject Darcy, is she married to a proud, arrogant, disdainful man who, as she feared, forces her to deny her own relatives and thus condemns her to a lifetime of misery? Or does she find herself married to a man who cares enough for her to reject the opposition of his family and chance his very standing in society in order to marry a woman he loves beyond measure?
Consequences, written by the author of A Most Civil Proposal, explores two alternate realities-both tragedy and triumph.
Audible Audio
First published December 3, 2013
119 people are currently reading
221 people want to read
About the author
C.P. Odom
11 books76 followersBy training, I’m a retired engineer, born in Texas, raised in Oklahoma, and graduated from the University of Oklahoma. Sandwiched in there was a stint in the Marines, and I’ve lived in Arizona since 1977, working first for Motorola and then General Dynamics. I raised two sons with my first wife, Margaret, before her untimely death from cancer, and my second wife, Jeanine, and I adopted two girls from China. The older of my daughters recently graduated with an engineering degree and is working in Phoenix, and the younger girl is heading toward a nursing degree. I’ve always been a voracious reader and collector of books, and my favorite genres are science fiction, historical fiction, histories, and, in recent years, reading (and later writing) Jane Austen romantic fiction. This late-developing interest was indirectly stimulated when I read my late wife's beloved Jane Austen books after her passing. One thing led to another, and I now have three novels published: A Most Civil Proposal (2013), Consequences (2014), and Pride, Prejudice, and Secrets (2015). My fourth novel, Perilous Siege, was just published. I retired from engineering in 2011, but I still live in Arizona with my family, a pair of dogs (one of which is stubbornly untrainable), and a pair of rather strange cats. My hobbies are reading, woodworking, and watching college football and LPGA golf (the girls are much nicer than the guys, as well as being fiendishly good putters). Lately I’ve reverted back to my younger years and have taken up building plastic model aircraft and ships (when I can find the time).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
March 8, 2024
Part 1 - Gripping / Part 2 - Reason
This book! I hardly know where to begin. I have to admit I debated quitting it, as I found the beginning at Hunsford very similar to the start of Mr. Odom’s other variation, A Most Civil Proposal (which I loved) and thought it odd he would begin another so similar. I’m really glad I kept reading, because similar doesn’t last. I usually try to avoid spoilers, and will attempt not to give away too much, but if you don’t like them, be warned, as I may at least hint to some.
The beginning chapters are, for the most part, a fast forward of canon from Hunsford to Pemberley. (No doubt done for readers who may not follow the P&P variations like many do.) This is where canon changes. While Lydia and Wickham do happen, the result of it happening changes everything! I was rather shocked at Darcy and Lydia’s visit. From Pemberley I found the book gripping and, for me at least, very emotional. I had to walk away from it before I started the second part of the book. I was distraught!
The first part is not a happy story, but it is compelling to read and very well written. Typos and proofreading errors normally annoy the crap out of me, but if there were any, I was so engrossed in the story, I missed them. That says much, as they normally poke me right in the eye if they exist.
Part 2 is another retelling, again from Hunsford, and is a more typical variation like others I have read. It was a bit of a letdown, in my opinion. I will let others judge, and despite not enjoying the second part as much, it is still well written and sees ODC use reason instead of anger after the proposal. I wished the writer would have joined the two parts more by allowing Elizabeth to remember more of Part 1.
This is the best I can do without giving it away, and the longest review I’ve ever written to date. I hope this author writes more variations, but also hope they start elsewhere other than Hunsford.
January 1, 2021 - Started Audiobook/Completed
I’d forgotten just how much I cried when I read this book the first time. Hearing Part 1 of the story told in audio didn’t make it any less heart wrenching. Most definitely a tearjerker. I first read the book as a Kindle Unlimited loaner, but have now purchased it for my permanent Kindle library.
Just finished this book for the fifth time. The end of the first part makes me ugly cry every time.
This book! I hardly know where to begin. I have to admit I debated quitting it, as I found the beginning at Hunsford very similar to the start of Mr. Odom’s other variation, A Most Civil Proposal (which I loved) and thought it odd he would begin another so similar. I’m really glad I kept reading, because similar doesn’t last. I usually try to avoid spoilers, and will attempt not to give away too much, but if you don’t like them, be warned, as I may at least hint to some.
The beginning chapters are, for the most part, a fast forward of canon from Hunsford to Pemberley. (No doubt done for readers who may not follow the P&P variations like many do.) This is where canon changes. While Lydia and Wickham do happen, the result of it happening changes everything! I was rather shocked at Darcy and Lydia’s visit. From Pemberley I found the book gripping and, for me at least, very emotional. I had to walk away from it before I started the second part of the book. I was distraught!
The first part is not a happy story, but it is compelling to read and very well written. Typos and proofreading errors normally annoy the crap out of me, but if there were any, I was so engrossed in the story, I missed them. That says much, as they normally poke me right in the eye if they exist.
Part 2 is another retelling, again from Hunsford, and is a more typical variation like others I have read. It was a bit of a letdown, in my opinion. I will let others judge, and despite not enjoying the second part as much, it is still well written and sees ODC use reason instead of anger after the proposal. I wished the writer would have joined the two parts more by allowing Elizabeth to remember more of Part 1.
This is the best I can do without giving it away, and the longest review I’ve ever written to date. I hope this author writes more variations, but also hope they start elsewhere other than Hunsford.
January 1, 2021 - Started Audiobook/Completed
I’d forgotten just how much I cried when I read this book the first time. Hearing Part 1 of the story told in audio didn’t make it any less heart wrenching. Most definitely a tearjerker. I first read the book as a Kindle Unlimited loaner, but have now purchased it for my permanent Kindle library.
Just finished this book for the fifth time. The end of the first part makes me ugly cry every time.
March 20, 2015
4.5 stars for me. "How would you describe the plot of this book?" There are 2 different books within: one with lots of twists & surprises and the other fairly predictable. I have read none of Mr. Odom's books before. This kindle version was a loan.
This is a very difficult review to write. I was warned, and if you read the longer reviews you read the same types of warnings, (even from male reviewers) that you need a box of tissues handy. I also found that there were spoilers in many of the reviews and in thinking of how to word mine, I understand why. I/We want you to read this book, but how do we get you into both "books" without a "carrot". The first book is like no other JAFF variation I have read....and I have read over 200. Doom and Gloom galore! Surprise after surprise and I am not talking about gift-wrapped-with-a-pretty-bow surprises. What's the saying?...Oh, If anything can go wrong....(Murphy's Law)
Two things were superlative: the quotes by various persons of renown at the beginning of each chapter along with the setting. I often wonder how an author finds such intuitive, such apropos poetry. Is he one who has memorized portions read? Or does he spend hours referencing and cross-referencing passages? Hats off in either situation. The second thing is the Q&A at the end. This part is something I would say, "Please, don't skip this." I finished reading the book/books in one day but left that part for this morning as I wanted a clear head. One bite of information that I gleaned is that this man is an engineer, as is another JAFF author I recommend, Stanley Hurd. I am in awe that these men write such romantic novels in a departure from the world they inhabited in their professional lives.
Now, back to the story. I agree with several of the reviewers (and I read all the longer reviews) that the second book could have had more time, more pages to give us better resolve to Elizabeth's path in understanding Darcy's character and in falling in love with him. Yes, everyone keeps telling her that her impressions are in opposition to what she thinks and feels about him but we barely get, "I like you" before the epilogue. Here, Charlotte and Jane, both step up in making Elizabeth look at her options and THE CONSEQUENCES. I needed by this time in the book, after all the tears and sadness of the first book, some sexual chemistry, some admiration, some "light-bulb turning on" when her feelings are the opposite of how she felt at the time of the proposal, i.e., "I was in the middle of it before I knew I had begun."
And going back to the first book, I have to reiterate, this book is very powerful. It breaks the contract we assume JAFF authors have with their readers, the HEA. Without the second book, I would say, "No, No, No". The Sleeper Awakes reminded me of an episode on the TV show Dallas (debuted in 1978), in that a whole season got this treatment. Breathe deeply, clear your eyes - there is hope on the horizon.
Yes, in exploring the world of JAFF, this is another one I would highly recommend you read. This approach is something I have not read, but which has to have lingered on the edge of our consciences when in reading canon we hear Mrs. Bennet exclaim about being thrown into the hedgerows when Mr. Bennet dies.
This is a very difficult review to write. I was warned, and if you read the longer reviews you read the same types of warnings, (even from male reviewers) that you need a box of tissues handy. I also found that there were spoilers in many of the reviews and in thinking of how to word mine, I understand why. I/We want you to read this book, but how do we get you into both "books" without a "carrot". The first book is like no other JAFF variation I have read....and I have read over 200. Doom and Gloom galore! Surprise after surprise and I am not talking about gift-wrapped-with-a-pretty-bow surprises. What's the saying?...Oh, If anything can go wrong....(Murphy's Law)
Two things were superlative: the quotes by various persons of renown at the beginning of each chapter along with the setting. I often wonder how an author finds such intuitive, such apropos poetry. Is he one who has memorized portions read? Or does he spend hours referencing and cross-referencing passages? Hats off in either situation. The second thing is the Q&A at the end. This part is something I would say, "Please, don't skip this." I finished reading the book/books in one day but left that part for this morning as I wanted a clear head. One bite of information that I gleaned is that this man is an engineer, as is another JAFF author I recommend, Stanley Hurd. I am in awe that these men write such romantic novels in a departure from the world they inhabited in their professional lives.
Now, back to the story. I agree with several of the reviewers (and I read all the longer reviews) that the second book could have had more time, more pages to give us better resolve to Elizabeth's path in understanding Darcy's character and in falling in love with him. Yes, everyone keeps telling her that her impressions are in opposition to what she thinks and feels about him but we barely get, "I like you" before the epilogue. Here, Charlotte and Jane, both step up in making Elizabeth look at her options and THE CONSEQUENCES. I needed by this time in the book, after all the tears and sadness of the first book, some sexual chemistry, some admiration, some "light-bulb turning on" when her feelings are the opposite of how she felt at the time of the proposal, i.e., "I was in the middle of it before I knew I had begun."
And going back to the first book, I have to reiterate, this book is very powerful. It breaks the contract we assume JAFF authors have with their readers, the HEA. Without the second book, I would say, "No, No, No". The Sleeper Awakes reminded me of an episode on the TV show Dallas (debuted in 1978), in that a whole season got this treatment. Breathe deeply, clear your eyes - there is hope on the horizon.
Yes, in exploring the world of JAFF, this is another one I would highly recommend you read. This approach is something I have not read, but which has to have lingered on the edge of our consciences when in reading canon we hear Mrs. Bennet exclaim about being thrown into the hedgerows when Mr. Bennet dies.
November 6, 2015
This was superbly written, but the total devastation of the Book 1 variation far outweighed the enjoyment of the brighter variation in Book 2. I could not get past that feeling. Not sure how I could actually see the words to be able read through the sobbing...
I am just sad now. So the rating is probably slightly less than deserved at 3.5 Stars.
I am just sad now. So the rating is probably slightly less than deserved at 3.5 Stars.
September 7, 2014
Review first posted at Babblings of a Bookworm: http://babblingsofabookworm.blogspot....
This is a variation on Pride and Prejudice in two books – the first explores a less happy outcome, which Elizabeth dreams prior to Darcy’s proposal at Hunsford, and the second book looks at what could have happened if she’d prudently accepted his proposal and so doesn’t give him the vehement response that changed his behaviour.
To make sense of this book I think it’s important to appreciate something of the state of affairs in the Bennet finances – Mr Bennet’s estate was entailed on Mr Collins. In the event of his death pretty much everything Mr Bennet owned would revert to Collins, and he could evict the Bennet ladies. Mrs Bennet would have a minuscule income and would probably have to rely on family such as the Gardiners and the Phillips family to support her and her daughters. The girls could potentially find genteel work but their options were very limited. Jane, Elizabeth and possibly Mary could perhaps have found jobs as governesses, but the younger girls had a poorer education. Ladies could become a paid companion (such as Mrs Jenkins, Anne de Bourgh’s companion) but I think these tended to be widows rather than maidens.
The only way to secure the future of the family after Mr Bennet’s death is for his daughters to marry, preferably all of them, but if just one of them married a man who was rich it would secure the future of all the sisters. Yet, in Pride and Prejudice Elizabeth spurns not one, but two advantageous proposals. A modern reader can understand and sympathise as to why she does this – she has no respect for Collins and actively dislikes Darcy, but I wonder what somebody reading Pride and Prejudice when it was first published would have thought. Would they have thought Elizabeth was selfish to have put her own happiness ahead of her family’s security? When Elizabeth tells Jane that she has rejected Darcy’s proposal she asks Jane “You do not blame me, however, for refusing him?” so Elizabeth is certainly aware of the difference it could have made. She doesn’t seem to feel the same about Collins’ proposal, but that was nowhere near as good a match.
In Book One, C P Odom explores what could have been the consequences of Elizabeth turning down Darcy’s proposal if she’d never met him at Pemberley. Here, Elizabeth gives the scathing refusal that she gives in canon, and events follow the path of Pride and Prejudice until Elizabeth and the Gardiners go to visit Pemberley. Darcy’s horse gets a stone stuck in his hoof, meaning that Darcy arrives later to Pemberley than in Pride and Prejudice, so he doesn’t see Elizabeth. This in turn means that there is no follow up visit to Pemberley, and obviously when Elizabeth gets the letter telling her that Lydia has eloped Darcy is not there to tell, meaning that Lydia is not found in time to prevent lasting damage being done to her sisters’ reputation, leading to them being shunned by Hertfordshire society. This is how bad things get, look at this quote from poor Jane:
“I cannot deceive myself any longer that everyone is good – I have become aware there is indeed evil in the world.”
The story follows on for the next forty or so years, showing what Elizabeth’s life could have become. Obviously, this is not the happiest of stories, but I thought it was an interesting exercise in exploring what could have been. Much of the book deals with happenings that are in Pride and Prejudice anyway, so it doesn’t really start feeling sad until they miss each other at Pemberley. I felt it wasn’t too far-fetched or unkind, although the fate of the Bennets could have been happier. I thought Elizabeth faced adversity courageously and with good humour.
Book Two sees Elizabeth waking from her dream. She doesn’t remember the details, only a vague recollection of some things, but she knows it was a bad dream. Charlotte Collins suspects that Mr Darcy is interested in Elizabeth, and, being a prudent person, she sees all the advantages of it. She works on Lizzy to extract a promise that if he were to propose that Lizzy won’t dismiss it out of hand. She has some interesting arguments in regard to Darcy’s behaviour in Hertfordshire, and his likely reasoning for interfering with Jane and Bingley. Charlotte is so persuasive that when Darcy proposes to Elizabeth, although he makes offensive comments regarding her family, she manages to bite back the words of her retort and asks for time to consider.
When she does, she can’t help but think of all the financial advantages her family would receive from the marriage – lifetime security for her mother and her four sisters, and the probability that Jane and Bingley will cross paths again, thus securing the happiness of Elizabeth’s most beloved sister. Lizzy wryly tells Charlotte “It is truly distressing to have such sensible arguments occur to me when I want to ignore them”.
The thing that swings the balance towards accepting Darcy is her vague recollection of the dream, that it could be a terrible mistake to reject him. Elizabeth has also begun to wonder whether she’s judged his character correctly; she’s obviously massively misjudged his feelings towards her at the very least. After considering, Elizabeth decides to act prudently and accept the proposal, politely making it clear that since she is only just aware of his interest she cannot pretend to have the same level of feelings for him that he’s expressed to her.
At first, I wasn’t very keen on this calculating portrayal of Lizzy who sees Darcy as a bit of an improvement project:
“Perhaps she, in time, could soften the harshness of his pride and arrogance. It would need slow, careful work; his character had been formed over the years, and modifications could not be accomplished overnight. In the meantime, it was essential she not damage his regard for her, for his affection would be the motivation to induce him to change his manner, if such were actually possible.”
In this view I am joined by Jane, who calls Lizzy out on her obstinate view of Mr Darcy as an unpleasant man:
“I would only ask you respond to him in a more kindly and less calculating fashion than was indicated in your letter.”
Go Jane! From Jane Bennet, this is the equivalent of what would be strong disapprobation from anybody else. Luckily, Lizzy makes a conscious effort to improve her attitude, and finds many good sides to Darcy that she never suspected. The Gardiners love him, she finds that he has a sense of humour, and she cannot fail to appreciate his loving behaviour toward his sister.
I felt a bit sorry for Darcy in this book (as opposed to the first book where I felt very sorry for them both!) because he realises that Lizzy has accepted him solely for prudent motives, and that she finds him lacking. He has a number of moments when he realises times when he has not done himself justice in her eyes, such as in his behaviour in Hertfordshire, and when he finally hears the lies that Wickham has told about him he then finds out that Lizzy believed him capable of such behaviour. I am pleased to report that there is a lovely happy ending to this book, but it was a little sudden. I felt the book could have done with a few chapters after they finally had equal feelings so I could revel in it a bit. I think the reader deserved to wallow a bit in happiness at the end of this book to balance out the book overall.
One thing I particularly appreciated about this book was the care taken with the language, as often these books have language that doesn’t fit the setting. There were very few instances throughout the book that jumped out at me, which was refreshing, although Mr Bennet says at one point that Lydia won’t get a cent from him, this was a rare lapse! Since I knew it had quite a sad first book I started it when I had time to read right through the first half and that approach worked well for me! On the whole, I really enjoyed this book, and I’d recommend it. I will only add, for the benefit of those who prefer to avoid them, that there are no sex scenes.
This is a variation on Pride and Prejudice in two books – the first explores a less happy outcome, which Elizabeth dreams prior to Darcy’s proposal at Hunsford, and the second book looks at what could have happened if she’d prudently accepted his proposal and so doesn’t give him the vehement response that changed his behaviour.
To make sense of this book I think it’s important to appreciate something of the state of affairs in the Bennet finances – Mr Bennet’s estate was entailed on Mr Collins. In the event of his death pretty much everything Mr Bennet owned would revert to Collins, and he could evict the Bennet ladies. Mrs Bennet would have a minuscule income and would probably have to rely on family such as the Gardiners and the Phillips family to support her and her daughters. The girls could potentially find genteel work but their options were very limited. Jane, Elizabeth and possibly Mary could perhaps have found jobs as governesses, but the younger girls had a poorer education. Ladies could become a paid companion (such as Mrs Jenkins, Anne de Bourgh’s companion) but I think these tended to be widows rather than maidens.
The only way to secure the future of the family after Mr Bennet’s death is for his daughters to marry, preferably all of them, but if just one of them married a man who was rich it would secure the future of all the sisters. Yet, in Pride and Prejudice Elizabeth spurns not one, but two advantageous proposals. A modern reader can understand and sympathise as to why she does this – she has no respect for Collins and actively dislikes Darcy, but I wonder what somebody reading Pride and Prejudice when it was first published would have thought. Would they have thought Elizabeth was selfish to have put her own happiness ahead of her family’s security? When Elizabeth tells Jane that she has rejected Darcy’s proposal she asks Jane “You do not blame me, however, for refusing him?” so Elizabeth is certainly aware of the difference it could have made. She doesn’t seem to feel the same about Collins’ proposal, but that was nowhere near as good a match.
In Book One, C P Odom explores what could have been the consequences of Elizabeth turning down Darcy’s proposal if she’d never met him at Pemberley. Here, Elizabeth gives the scathing refusal that she gives in canon, and events follow the path of Pride and Prejudice until Elizabeth and the Gardiners go to visit Pemberley. Darcy’s horse gets a stone stuck in his hoof, meaning that Darcy arrives later to Pemberley than in Pride and Prejudice, so he doesn’t see Elizabeth. This in turn means that there is no follow up visit to Pemberley, and obviously when Elizabeth gets the letter telling her that Lydia has eloped Darcy is not there to tell, meaning that Lydia is not found in time to prevent lasting damage being done to her sisters’ reputation, leading to them being shunned by Hertfordshire society. This is how bad things get, look at this quote from poor Jane:
“I cannot deceive myself any longer that everyone is good – I have become aware there is indeed evil in the world.”
The story follows on for the next forty or so years, showing what Elizabeth’s life could have become. Obviously, this is not the happiest of stories, but I thought it was an interesting exercise in exploring what could have been. Much of the book deals with happenings that are in Pride and Prejudice anyway, so it doesn’t really start feeling sad until they miss each other at Pemberley. I felt it wasn’t too far-fetched or unkind, although the fate of the Bennets could have been happier. I thought Elizabeth faced adversity courageously and with good humour.
Book Two sees Elizabeth waking from her dream. She doesn’t remember the details, only a vague recollection of some things, but she knows it was a bad dream. Charlotte Collins suspects that Mr Darcy is interested in Elizabeth, and, being a prudent person, she sees all the advantages of it. She works on Lizzy to extract a promise that if he were to propose that Lizzy won’t dismiss it out of hand. She has some interesting arguments in regard to Darcy’s behaviour in Hertfordshire, and his likely reasoning for interfering with Jane and Bingley. Charlotte is so persuasive that when Darcy proposes to Elizabeth, although he makes offensive comments regarding her family, she manages to bite back the words of her retort and asks for time to consider.
When she does, she can’t help but think of all the financial advantages her family would receive from the marriage – lifetime security for her mother and her four sisters, and the probability that Jane and Bingley will cross paths again, thus securing the happiness of Elizabeth’s most beloved sister. Lizzy wryly tells Charlotte “It is truly distressing to have such sensible arguments occur to me when I want to ignore them”.
The thing that swings the balance towards accepting Darcy is her vague recollection of the dream, that it could be a terrible mistake to reject him. Elizabeth has also begun to wonder whether she’s judged his character correctly; she’s obviously massively misjudged his feelings towards her at the very least. After considering, Elizabeth decides to act prudently and accept the proposal, politely making it clear that since she is only just aware of his interest she cannot pretend to have the same level of feelings for him that he’s expressed to her.
At first, I wasn’t very keen on this calculating portrayal of Lizzy who sees Darcy as a bit of an improvement project:
“Perhaps she, in time, could soften the harshness of his pride and arrogance. It would need slow, careful work; his character had been formed over the years, and modifications could not be accomplished overnight. In the meantime, it was essential she not damage his regard for her, for his affection would be the motivation to induce him to change his manner, if such were actually possible.”
In this view I am joined by Jane, who calls Lizzy out on her obstinate view of Mr Darcy as an unpleasant man:
“I would only ask you respond to him in a more kindly and less calculating fashion than was indicated in your letter.”
Go Jane! From Jane Bennet, this is the equivalent of what would be strong disapprobation from anybody else. Luckily, Lizzy makes a conscious effort to improve her attitude, and finds many good sides to Darcy that she never suspected. The Gardiners love him, she finds that he has a sense of humour, and she cannot fail to appreciate his loving behaviour toward his sister.
I felt a bit sorry for Darcy in this book (as opposed to the first book where I felt very sorry for them both!) because he realises that Lizzy has accepted him solely for prudent motives, and that she finds him lacking. He has a number of moments when he realises times when he has not done himself justice in her eyes, such as in his behaviour in Hertfordshire, and when he finally hears the lies that Wickham has told about him he then finds out that Lizzy believed him capable of such behaviour. I am pleased to report that there is a lovely happy ending to this book, but it was a little sudden. I felt the book could have done with a few chapters after they finally had equal feelings so I could revel in it a bit. I think the reader deserved to wallow a bit in happiness at the end of this book to balance out the book overall.
One thing I particularly appreciated about this book was the care taken with the language, as often these books have language that doesn’t fit the setting. There were very few instances throughout the book that jumped out at me, which was refreshing, although Mr Bennet says at one point that Lydia won’t get a cent from him, this was a rare lapse! Since I knew it had quite a sad first book I started it when I had time to read right through the first half and that approach worked well for me! On the whole, I really enjoyed this book, and I’d recommend it. I will only add, for the benefit of those who prefer to avoid them, that there are no sex scenes.
November 21, 2025
2022 - I am so glad I gave this a second try. Neil Roy McFarlane was the perfect choice to narrate this story.
I recall the first time I read this as an ebook, I was nearly hysterical at the end of Book 1, not being aware of the whole of the story. Nearly threw my tablet across the room.
When this came up on my Amazon feed as an audible, with this narrator, I decided to give it a second chance. Of course the end of Book1 is just as emotional, but not being a shock I was able to enjoy the writing and performance by both author and narrator!
***
This was definitely a hate/love book for me. Maybe if I had started it knowing what the author was doing, I would have enjoyed it more. The second half got better, but didn't do enough to take away the bad taste.
It's of those that makes me wish I could undo, but can never delete. When I told my sister about it she was appalled. LOL
That aside, I have read others from this author and enjoyed them immensely.
I recall the first time I read this as an ebook, I was nearly hysterical at the end of Book 1, not being aware of the whole of the story. Nearly threw my tablet across the room.
When this came up on my Amazon feed as an audible, with this narrator, I decided to give it a second chance. Of course the end of Book1 is just as emotional, but not being a shock I was able to enjoy the writing and performance by both author and narrator!
***
This was definitely a hate/love book for me. Maybe if I had started it knowing what the author was doing, I would have enjoyed it more. The second half got better, but didn't do enough to take away the bad taste.
It's of those that makes me wish I could undo, but can never delete. When I told my sister about it she was appalled. LOL
That aside, I have read others from this author and enjoyed them immensely.
February 9, 2014
WOW!!! This book is completely amazing. It is the singularly most unique Pride and Prejudice 'What if' I have read!
The book examines how seemingly tiny events can have profound impact upon the time that follows or the consequences of your decisions. The author weaves two separate outcomes into one book. Both are imaginative and unique.
What if: Lizzy didn't meet Mr. Darcy at Pemberley because his horse came up lame, so his expertise wasn't available to find Lydia, and Lydia was never recovered? it's not good and conversely what if Charlotte persuaded Lizzy to carefully consider Mr. Darcy's proposal in Kent so instead of her fiery spiteful reply she begs for time to consider and weighs his words.
This book is compelling and clean and insightful. I loved it
The book examines how seemingly tiny events can have profound impact upon the time that follows or the consequences of your decisions. The author weaves two separate outcomes into one book. Both are imaginative and unique.
What if: Lizzy didn't meet Mr. Darcy at Pemberley because his horse came up lame, so his expertise wasn't available to find Lydia, and Lydia was never recovered? it's not good and conversely what if Charlotte persuaded Lizzy to carefully consider Mr. Darcy's proposal in Kent so instead of her fiery spiteful reply she begs for time to consider and weighs his words.
This book is compelling and clean and insightful. I loved it
September 23, 2024
Lots of the reviews have talked about editing errors, this book being an unrealistic downer and other what I consider nitpicks. All true, yet unimportant.
These two books are really one book. It is a detailed example showing how one small change can make a HUGE difference in outcomes . This book is Powerful. It made me cry. It made me mad. It surprised me. It made me root for happy/happier outcomes. It made me think.
It's a book I would want young teenagers to read in school or in summer school or Sunday school. It SHOWS in an entertaining way that there is no small decision. Maximize your good decisions because you never know which fork in the road that choose will send you careening down a terrible road to ruin.
This is a great book.
These two books are really one book. It is a detailed example showing how one small change can make a HUGE difference in outcomes . This book is Powerful. It made me cry. It made me mad. It surprised me. It made me root for happy/happier outcomes. It made me think.
It's a book I would want young teenagers to read in school or in summer school or Sunday school. It SHOWS in an entertaining way that there is no small decision. Maximize your good decisions because you never know which fork in the road that choose will send you careening down a terrible road to ruin.
This is a great book.
May 26, 2023
I’ve waited a couple of days before reviewing this book to calm my emotions. This book explores two different paths from our original story and demonstrates how significant every action and decision is in the fragile balance of things. It shows the good and bad “consequences” that result when you make even a minor and seemingly insignificant change to the original story. As this is basically two separate books, it’s difficult to make one review.
Book 1- This is not an easy read and certainly not for the faint of heart. It started off in Kent and the beginning was just a repeat of the original with nothing new at all, I started wondering if there was going to be anything new, but then, things are slightly changed when Elizabeth is at Pemberley and misses seeing Darcy there. They miss each other by minutes, in fact they pass each other without realizing it and that single event changes everything. The tale of “what if” that follows will break your heart. As sad and melancholy as it was, it was my favorite of the two. It’s hard to justify that statement as the events are so sad heartbreaking, but I had such a powerful connection and I was so emotionally invested and my heart was totally and completely engaged that I have to give credit to the author. I shed more that a few tears and was at the point of weeping so touched was my heart. After I finished this first book, I was so overcome, I couldn’t immediately begin part two. I had to sit there in quiet contemplation and let things settle and digest and let my heart calm before I could resume my life. So while it is not an uplifting tale, it is certainly an engaging one and I can’t bring myself to regret reading it.
Book 2- This tale also begins in Kent, but is different from the very beginning. Elizabeth is not so completely blindsided by Darcy’s proposal and has been given some sage advice prior to receiving said proposal that makes Elizabeth think long and hard and consider the “consequences” both good and bad before Darcy approaches her. This is the deviant that changes the course of this story and as Elizabeth ponders other factors that she had not previously considered, her response to the offensive proposal, while not necessarily positive, is not as violent as in canon. She still manages to hold on to many of her prejudices for probably longer than necessary, but eventually things right themselves and our couple get their HEA.
Overall, I have to say this was a very well written and engaging book and I’m not sure enjoy is the right word, but I was really touched by it, which is just as important in my estimation of the quality of a book!
Book 1- This is not an easy read and certainly not for the faint of heart. It started off in Kent and the beginning was just a repeat of the original with nothing new at all, I started wondering if there was going to be anything new, but then, things are slightly changed when Elizabeth is at Pemberley and misses seeing Darcy there. They miss each other by minutes, in fact they pass each other without realizing it and that single event changes everything. The tale of “what if” that follows will break your heart. As sad and melancholy as it was, it was my favorite of the two. It’s hard to justify that statement as the events are so sad heartbreaking, but I had such a powerful connection and I was so emotionally invested and my heart was totally and completely engaged that I have to give credit to the author. I shed more that a few tears and was at the point of weeping so touched was my heart. After I finished this first book, I was so overcome, I couldn’t immediately begin part two. I had to sit there in quiet contemplation and let things settle and digest and let my heart calm before I could resume my life. So while it is not an uplifting tale, it is certainly an engaging one and I can’t bring myself to regret reading it.
Book 2- This tale also begins in Kent, but is different from the very beginning. Elizabeth is not so completely blindsided by Darcy’s proposal and has been given some sage advice prior to receiving said proposal that makes Elizabeth think long and hard and consider the “consequences” both good and bad before Darcy approaches her. This is the deviant that changes the course of this story and as Elizabeth ponders other factors that she had not previously considered, her response to the offensive proposal, while not necessarily positive, is not as violent as in canon. She still manages to hold on to many of her prejudices for probably longer than necessary, but eventually things right themselves and our couple get their HEA.
Overall, I have to say this was a very well written and engaging book and I’m not sure enjoy is the right word, but I was really touched by it, which is just as important in my estimation of the quality of a book!
April 26, 2014
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Two variations (approximately 120-140 pages each) that explore two different possible outcomes of Darcy’s proposal at Hunsford Parsonage
TIME FRAME: The first variation (The Road Not Taken) begins the day of Darcy’s proposal and continues forty-two years into the future. The second variation (The Sleeper Wakes) begins early in the day of Darcy’s proposal and continues seven months into the future.
MAIN CHARACTERS: Elizabeth, Mr. Darcy, Jane Bennet, Lydia Bennet, Charlotte Collins, and the whole gang…
SYNOPSIS: The Road Not Taken explores the questions: What if the coincidental meeting at Pemberley never took place? What if Darcy didn’t learn about Lydia’s scandalous elopement until it was too late? The Sleeper Wakes explores the questions: What if Charlotte addressed her concerns and suppositions more forcefully with Elizabeth? What if Elizabeth realized ahead of time the negative consequences her refusal of Mr. Darcy might have on her family and more specifically her sister?
WHAT I LOVED:
The Little Touches: I loved how the two variations were plausibly and cleverly connected to each other by a thread. I’m always a fan of when authors begin each chapter with an epigraph and/or date. I admire the time, thought, and work it takes into finding apropos quotes and I appreciate having a definite timeline or being able to know the passage of time. Loved the Q&A at the end of the book; very informative and thorough.
Writing Style: In both variations, readers can expect to spend a lot of time in Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s heads. And by his emotive and expressive writing, I can tell that Mr. Odom spent a lot of time in their heads as well. Rather than tell what the characters were thinking, Mr. Odom showed it. I loved the myriad of emotions I felt when reading this novel: despair, hurt, shock, sorrow, apprehension, relief, and happiness, to name a few. :)
Exploring the Consequences: Loved that this book was 2-in-1! The Road Not Taken, while completely heart-wrenching (and maybe a tad more depressing than it needed to be) sort of reminded me of an Austenesque version of It’s A Wonderful Life – we got to see what Elizabeth’s life would have been like if she never encountered Darcy again after rejecting him. I must add how much I loved Darcy in this variation. We thought he was noble, protective, and a man violently in love before…but, oh my, is he ever more so during these unfortunate events! I loved how The Sleeper Wakes explored Elizabeth’s feelings and ideals. Elizabeth goes against her natural grain in this one and wrestles between Charlotte’s practical and prudent beliefs and her own partial and prejudiced ones. Loved seeing Elizabeth ponder over Mr. Darcy and his proposal, rather than lash out with barely-repressed anger.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
Ending on a Wickham Note: Even though I love me some angst, I was much more in love with the second variation of this piece. I loved everything about it up until the end, where Wickham and his sordid past started to take up too much valuable Darcy and Elizabeth page time! ;) Perhaps I’d be okay with Wickham’s twenty-page hijack if there were another twenty pages following his interruption showing more of Elizabeth’s change of heart rather than jumping to the epilogue six months later. (The dastardly Wickham strikes again!)
CONCLUSION:
While there are many Pride and Prejudice variations out there that explore similar scenarios to the two presented in this novel, I really enjoyed the thoughtful way these variations were constructed and intertwined. Consequences is emotionally turbulent and inherently reflective, so be ready to have your heart and mind engaged and occupied!
TIME FRAME: The first variation (The Road Not Taken) begins the day of Darcy’s proposal and continues forty-two years into the future. The second variation (The Sleeper Wakes) begins early in the day of Darcy’s proposal and continues seven months into the future.
MAIN CHARACTERS: Elizabeth, Mr. Darcy, Jane Bennet, Lydia Bennet, Charlotte Collins, and the whole gang…
SYNOPSIS: The Road Not Taken explores the questions: What if the coincidental meeting at Pemberley never took place? What if Darcy didn’t learn about Lydia’s scandalous elopement until it was too late? The Sleeper Wakes explores the questions: What if Charlotte addressed her concerns and suppositions more forcefully with Elizabeth? What if Elizabeth realized ahead of time the negative consequences her refusal of Mr. Darcy might have on her family and more specifically her sister?
WHAT I LOVED:
The Little Touches: I loved how the two variations were plausibly and cleverly connected to each other by a thread. I’m always a fan of when authors begin each chapter with an epigraph and/or date. I admire the time, thought, and work it takes into finding apropos quotes and I appreciate having a definite timeline or being able to know the passage of time. Loved the Q&A at the end of the book; very informative and thorough.
Writing Style: In both variations, readers can expect to spend a lot of time in Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s heads. And by his emotive and expressive writing, I can tell that Mr. Odom spent a lot of time in their heads as well. Rather than tell what the characters were thinking, Mr. Odom showed it. I loved the myriad of emotions I felt when reading this novel: despair, hurt, shock, sorrow, apprehension, relief, and happiness, to name a few. :)
Exploring the Consequences: Loved that this book was 2-in-1! The Road Not Taken, while completely heart-wrenching (and maybe a tad more depressing than it needed to be) sort of reminded me of an Austenesque version of It’s A Wonderful Life – we got to see what Elizabeth’s life would have been like if she never encountered Darcy again after rejecting him. I must add how much I loved Darcy in this variation. We thought he was noble, protective, and a man violently in love before…but, oh my, is he ever more so during these unfortunate events! I loved how The Sleeper Wakes explored Elizabeth’s feelings and ideals. Elizabeth goes against her natural grain in this one and wrestles between Charlotte’s practical and prudent beliefs and her own partial and prejudiced ones. Loved seeing Elizabeth ponder over Mr. Darcy and his proposal, rather than lash out with barely-repressed anger.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
Ending on a Wickham Note: Even though I love me some angst, I was much more in love with the second variation of this piece. I loved everything about it up until the end, where Wickham and his sordid past started to take up too much valuable Darcy and Elizabeth page time! ;) Perhaps I’d be okay with Wickham’s twenty-page hijack if there were another twenty pages following his interruption showing more of Elizabeth’s change of heart rather than jumping to the epilogue six months later. (The dastardly Wickham strikes again!)
CONCLUSION:
While there are many Pride and Prejudice variations out there that explore similar scenarios to the two presented in this novel, I really enjoyed the thoughtful way these variations were constructed and intertwined. Consequences is emotionally turbulent and inherently reflective, so be ready to have your heart and mind engaged and occupied!
May 2, 2018
I understand the brilliance of the concept, but the first section is a difficult read. I have to rate this 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 only because of the emotional impact I suffered!
April 29, 2014
I really do not know how to write this review without giving anything away! Where do I begin? Okay maybe I should start by confessing I have been more naive than Lydia Bennet when it came to reading this book! Reading an excerpt of the book I thought I knew what this book was about, how wrong was I. While not intending to read this book just yet, a few reviews had me intrigued, one in particular from Austenprose said "There were times that the writing was so moving that I had to put the book down and just reflect for a bit! - Kimberly Denny-Ryder
So while sitting in the car during my son's football practice, I began....
At first the story was mostly a recount of parts of Pride and Prejudice using much of Austen's original prose and I felt I was just going through the motions (although I did acknowledge that this was probably for the benefit of people who are not familiar with Austen's work). But looking back know I see I was actually being led up the garden path, into a false sense of security. When I reached the excerpt I had read previously, I thought here we go! Thinking I knew exactly where I was going. Ha well that must be the biggest understatement of the year, because I never could have imagined the emotional roller coaster I embarked on from that moment in the car until five am the following morning!
"So severe was the shock on his first sight of Miss Bennet’s attractive form and her expressive face that he almost imagined himself struck by lightning." - P.O.Odom
Five in the morning and at the midway point in the book my emotions were so spent and at breaking point that I cried my self to sleep. I am glad I had time to sleep on it because if I had not I would have been in a melancholy mood the whole day. My temper I would not have been able to vouch for (partly due to lack of sleep, but also because Mr Collins and Lady Catherine had left me incensed beyond belief). Please understand that I have no regrets, I just did not see the rug being pulled from under my feet (hence the naive Lydia comment from earlier).
Of course finishing the book then took precedent over all else and by the next evening I had accomplished just that and am pleased to say it was with a smile.
"She closed her eyes in pain, as she comprehended the unwelcome truth that her angry and absolute rejection of Mr. Darcy unwittingly made it a certainty Mr. Bingley and Jane would forever remain separated." - P.O.Odom
This book is pure genius, so deep in retrospection that I will never look at regret in the same light again. The start of every chapter begins with a quote which leaves you deep in thought, which is a delightful extra indeed! I fear or should I say I know, I have told you nothing of the book. So hear it is in a nutshell P.O Odom has given us a double dose of JAFF 'what if' scenarios whilst performing an autopsy on P&P, the consequences of one's actions, of ignorance and of presumption. The price of fear, gullibility and the influence of societies norms and values. They are laid bare in this book. Can we really rely on chance and good fortune? What if Elizabeth missed Darcy by five minutes at Pemberley, what would be the consequences? Well you will have to find out for yourself, as I highly recommend you go get this book!!!!
"Elizabeth glared furiously at Darcy. “Humour, Mr. Darcy? You have developed a sense of humour and have decided to display it during soup? I must insist on adequate warning next time, sir!” -P.O.Odom
Originally posted on My Kids led Me Back to Pride & Prejudice
So while sitting in the car during my son's football practice, I began....
At first the story was mostly a recount of parts of Pride and Prejudice using much of Austen's original prose and I felt I was just going through the motions (although I did acknowledge that this was probably for the benefit of people who are not familiar with Austen's work). But looking back know I see I was actually being led up the garden path, into a false sense of security. When I reached the excerpt I had read previously, I thought here we go! Thinking I knew exactly where I was going. Ha well that must be the biggest understatement of the year, because I never could have imagined the emotional roller coaster I embarked on from that moment in the car until five am the following morning!
"So severe was the shock on his first sight of Miss Bennet’s attractive form and her expressive face that he almost imagined himself struck by lightning." - P.O.Odom
Five in the morning and at the midway point in the book my emotions were so spent and at breaking point that I cried my self to sleep. I am glad I had time to sleep on it because if I had not I would have been in a melancholy mood the whole day. My temper I would not have been able to vouch for (partly due to lack of sleep, but also because Mr Collins and Lady Catherine had left me incensed beyond belief). Please understand that I have no regrets, I just did not see the rug being pulled from under my feet (hence the naive Lydia comment from earlier).
Of course finishing the book then took precedent over all else and by the next evening I had accomplished just that and am pleased to say it was with a smile.
"She closed her eyes in pain, as she comprehended the unwelcome truth that her angry and absolute rejection of Mr. Darcy unwittingly made it a certainty Mr. Bingley and Jane would forever remain separated." - P.O.Odom
This book is pure genius, so deep in retrospection that I will never look at regret in the same light again. The start of every chapter begins with a quote which leaves you deep in thought, which is a delightful extra indeed! I fear or should I say I know, I have told you nothing of the book. So hear it is in a nutshell P.O Odom has given us a double dose of JAFF 'what if' scenarios whilst performing an autopsy on P&P, the consequences of one's actions, of ignorance and of presumption. The price of fear, gullibility and the influence of societies norms and values. They are laid bare in this book. Can we really rely on chance and good fortune? What if Elizabeth missed Darcy by five minutes at Pemberley, what would be the consequences? Well you will have to find out for yourself, as I highly recommend you go get this book!!!!
"Elizabeth glared furiously at Darcy. “Humour, Mr. Darcy? You have developed a sense of humour and have decided to display it during soup? I must insist on adequate warning next time, sir!” -P.O.Odom
Originally posted on My Kids led Me Back to Pride & Prejudice
March 29, 2015
Best Pride and Prejudice Variation
Although it pained me to read through the first part, I did appreciate it. We often forget how tragic it may have been had the chance encounter at Pemberly had never happened. I loved the second variation. C.P. Odom did not lose the essence of the characters at all.
Although it pained me to read through the first part, I did appreciate it. We often forget how tragic it may have been had the chance encounter at Pemberly had never happened. I loved the second variation. C.P. Odom did not lose the essence of the characters at all.
Read
November 3, 2017Consequences is a thought-provoking retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, with two novellas joined together into a novel about the consequences of missed opportunities and how doing just one thing differently can turn everything around. The first part imagines how Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy’s lives would have played out had she rejected his proposal at Hunsford and then missed running into him later on when she tours Pemberley with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. The second part has Elizabeth, with the help of her best friend, Charlotte, taking a more practical approach to Mr. Darcy’s first proposal, accepting it as a means of saving her family in the event of her father’s death despite her fears of being trapped in an unhappy marriage.
I will not divulge any more of the plot because this is a novel that should be experienced the way I experienced it, not knowing how either journey would play out and going through a roller-coaster of emotions. I even teared up at one point and had to explain to my husband why I was so sad. I couldn’t believe an Austen-inspired novel made me cry, but that’s what I loved so much about it. Odom’s tale felt almost too real at times, as some decisions lead people on a rocky path lined with tragedy, and a bittersweet ending is the most that can be hoped for. But there also were times when I sighed with relief and cheered on the characters (scenes involving Mr. Darcy and Mr. Collins and Mr. Darcy and Lady Catherine immediately come to mind).
Odom’s take on Pride and Prejudice is thoughtful, emphasizes the complexity of the novel and the many different outcomes that could have occurred, and prompts readers to think about the characters’ motivations, decisions, and ultimate fates in the context of Austen’s time. Having read a number of Pride and Prejudice retellings, I admire Odom’s courage in taking the characters on at least one journey that many Austen fans might find difficult to imagine for their beloved characters. For readers who wonder about the proliferation of Austen fiction these days, Consequences really drives home the point that one seemingly small change in the plot can have a dramatic impact on the outcome of the story and highlights why many people are fascinated by all the different ways it could have been told.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
I received a free copy of this book for review.
I will not divulge any more of the plot because this is a novel that should be experienced the way I experienced it, not knowing how either journey would play out and going through a roller-coaster of emotions. I even teared up at one point and had to explain to my husband why I was so sad. I couldn’t believe an Austen-inspired novel made me cry, but that’s what I loved so much about it. Odom’s tale felt almost too real at times, as some decisions lead people on a rocky path lined with tragedy, and a bittersweet ending is the most that can be hoped for. But there also were times when I sighed with relief and cheered on the characters (scenes involving Mr. Darcy and Mr. Collins and Mr. Darcy and Lady Catherine immediately come to mind).
Odom’s take on Pride and Prejudice is thoughtful, emphasizes the complexity of the novel and the many different outcomes that could have occurred, and prompts readers to think about the characters’ motivations, decisions, and ultimate fates in the context of Austen’s time. Having read a number of Pride and Prejudice retellings, I admire Odom’s courage in taking the characters on at least one journey that many Austen fans might find difficult to imagine for their beloved characters. For readers who wonder about the proliferation of Austen fiction these days, Consequences really drives home the point that one seemingly small change in the plot can have a dramatic impact on the outcome of the story and highlights why many people are fascinated by all the different ways it could have been told.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
I received a free copy of this book for review.
February 10, 2014
I loved this book! I know if you have read other of my reviews I've said that many times, and I usually mean it, but this but has such a grip on me. I remember reading this from an internet JAFF site and loving it then with such emotion as well. I always cry towards the end on Book 1 every time I've read a version of it!! C.P. Odom has such a gift at writing and capturing the attention and imagination of the reader that you just can't help but be glued to his work!! I read this book all yesterday, there was never many minutes between when I wasn't reading it throughout the day. This book easily ranks in my top 10 JAFF books and I would rate this higher than 5/5 star if I could. Anyone and everyone could read and enjoy this book, though I know that most all Janeites will love this book. Reading the Q&A at the end was most enjoyable for the explanations to questions I didn't know I had. Thank you C.P. Odom for this book and look forward to more from you!!
February 21, 2016
I know that I am coming late to the book and am sure everyone here has read it. I avoided it due to the promised tragic storyline. I did like the book very much but was rather disappointed that Jane and Elizabeth fell into such friendly and comfortable circumstances in the tragic storyline.
February 3, 2016
Extremes! I can not think of a more heartbreaking first half based on a quick choice. The flip was much happier.
February 13, 2022
I cheated and only read the happy part. Read that way, it's very good. Read with the rough ending, it's heartbreaking.
April 13, 2014
Consequences is a unique Pride and Prejudice retelling broken down into two sections. The first gives you a chance to see what could happen if Elizabeth rejected Darcy at the parsonage in Hunsford, and never saw him again at Pemberley. How devastating to her family that could be. The second shows what could happen if she accepted him right then, before all her prejudices are corrected.
I found the first book hard to read. It’s just so sad. The series of events set off by that refusal is tragic. But as unpleasant as it is, it's interesting to see how badly things could have turned out; the harsh realities of life. And I liked that, despite everything, Lizzy stays strong.
As for the second half, I would have liked to see Darcy and Elizabeth spend a little more time together while Elizabeth is learning who Mr. Darcy really is. Her opinion of him changes by observing him and Georgiana, since Darcy never writes that letter to clear his name of all the injustices she accused him of.
I loved how insightful Charlotte is! In this story, she puts more of an effort into making Elizabeth listen to reason. Not only does she tell Elizabeth of her suspicion that Darcy might be in love with her, and encourage Elizabeth to say yes should he propose to her. Reminding her of how dire it would be for her and her family if her father should die. She also reminds her how being with Darcy would most likely bring Jane and Bingley together again. And maybe she shouldn’t believe everything Wickham says.
The ending of Consequences definitely gave me the warm fuzzies! I would recommend for any Pride and Prejudice fan! Just push through that first section! ;)
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the publisher for my honest review.
I found the first book hard to read. It’s just so sad. The series of events set off by that refusal is tragic. But as unpleasant as it is, it's interesting to see how badly things could have turned out; the harsh realities of life. And I liked that, despite everything, Lizzy stays strong.
As for the second half, I would have liked to see Darcy and Elizabeth spend a little more time together while Elizabeth is learning who Mr. Darcy really is. Her opinion of him changes by observing him and Georgiana, since Darcy never writes that letter to clear his name of all the injustices she accused him of.
I loved how insightful Charlotte is! In this story, she puts more of an effort into making Elizabeth listen to reason. Not only does she tell Elizabeth of her suspicion that Darcy might be in love with her, and encourage Elizabeth to say yes should he propose to her. Reminding her of how dire it would be for her and her family if her father should die. She also reminds her how being with Darcy would most likely bring Jane and Bingley together again. And maybe she shouldn’t believe everything Wickham says.
The ending of Consequences definitely gave me the warm fuzzies! I would recommend for any Pride and Prejudice fan! Just push through that first section! ;)
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the publisher for my honest review.
January 15, 2018
Two very different paths from the Hunsford proposal as this book has two parts. The first describes what would happen if ODC never encountered each other at Pemberley and a series of events made Elizabeth's circumstances, significantly reduced. A handkerchief might come in handy through this story, at least for a watering pot like me... Emotional and heart-wrenching tale and the end had me crying my eyes out as we follow Elizabeth through 40 years... Loved how she, in spite of all the curve balls life threw at her, she still kept her happy disposition. Jane's story also gave me the chills.
This story turns out to be a dream but Elizabeth remembers very little of it when she wakes up.
The second part describes what happens when Elizabeth wakes up on the day of the Hunsford proposal. She has little memory of her nightmare, just a hunch of something dreadful. In the meantime, Charlotte has been working on removing some of Elizabeth's prejudice and that make her pause at the proposal, asking for day to think it over. Accepting him in a prudential light the next day lead to a very different outcome. Watching Elizabeth come to an understanding of the real character of Darcy was a delightful journey.
My only complaint would be that the epilogue, although wonderful, was too short... Otherwise, I can not fault it.
Heartily recommend this book!
This story turns out to be a dream but Elizabeth remembers very little of it when she wakes up.
The second part describes what happens when Elizabeth wakes up on the day of the Hunsford proposal. She has little memory of her nightmare, just a hunch of something dreadful. In the meantime, Charlotte has been working on removing some of Elizabeth's prejudice and that make her pause at the proposal, asking for day to think it over. Accepting him in a prudential light the next day lead to a very different outcome. Watching Elizabeth come to an understanding of the real character of Darcy was a delightful journey.
My only complaint would be that the epilogue, although wonderful, was too short... Otherwise, I can not fault it.
Heartily recommend this book!
April 29, 2015
Interesting variation
This book was good... Kept my interest but won't make my top P&P list... Good ending but not as intense in the romance department as I like the Darcys...
This book was good... Kept my interest but won't make my top P&P list... Good ending but not as intense in the romance department as I like the Darcys...
April 8, 2014
Consequences is two novellas in one book. Both explore some of the possible changes that could have occurred in Pride & Prejudice depending on choices made or events altered. The book was very well-written and insightful! I will review it in two parts, the way it was written.
Book I: The Road Not Taken
Oh. My. Goodness! The depth and despair of Book I evoked immense feelings. I had a difficult time putting the book down! I can truthfully say I have never read a Pride & Prejudice variation like this one. It begins with Darcy walking to Hunsford immediately prior to his botched proposal and Elizabeth’s strong refusal of it. We are privy to Darcy’s thoughts and inner reactions, before, during and after that proposal. I particularly enjoyed reading these since they were from a man’s point of view. The author did a fantastic job of allowing this reader to feel with Darcy as Elizabeth brings home her anger and prejudices at what she believed to be his arrogance and pride.
The consequences of Lizzy’s decision could, most assuredly, have ended in disaster, instead of happily ever after. Book I: The Road Not Taken answers the following questions and more. What if Darcy’s horse was injured on that fateful day when Elizabeth was at Pemberley with the Gardiners and he didn’t see her? What if Darcy didn’t know about Lydia’s elopement and, therefore, was not able to force Wickham’s hand? What if something happened to Mr. Bennet? What if? The consequences of choices made and one incident changed transform this narrative from the original to what could have been. All characters are affected. Every action has such a domino effect that no one is left untouched. The saying, “No man is an island” has never been more clearly depicted.
When I finished Book I, I cried. I cried even before I finished it and I thought about it for some time. I continue to think on it, even now. My one consolation to those feelings of utter loss was knowing that Book II was the alternate possibility/reality/dream. Even though the first novella had much angst and sorrow, I would not have missed it for the world. It was riveting and emotionally charged.
Book II: The Sleeper Wakes
While visiting Hunsford, Elizabeth awakens from a horrible nightmare and is left with feelings of ‘loneliness, despair, hopelessness and fear’. Although the details of this dream are vague, the emotions aroused are not. A long talk with Charlotte elicits a promise from Lizzy which keeps her from spewing those angry words of refusal when Fitzwilliam Darcy surprises her with a proposal the following night. What if Lizzy decides to marry Darcy even though she does not love him? What if there is never an accidental meeting at Pemberley or the letter exposing Wickham? What if dear sweet Jane is allowed to show a bit of justifiable temper? What if? The consequences of choices made change this narrative from the original too, but not in a devastating manner. This happily ever after affects the characters in a positive light.
Both books have some life lessons that can be gleaned from the pages. Also, there were several thoughts introduced that I must confess I had never before considered. Bearing in mind the number of these novels which I have read, that fact was an eye-opener. I have purposely given few specific details as my intention was to entice not spoil!
There are some great quotes at the beginning of each chapter and an informative Q & A at the end of the book. Loved these extra bonuses!
Author C.P. Odom has outdone himself with this book. He has a good command of Regency language and tells a brilliant story. It is an exceptional read and one that I would encourage all Jane Austen and Pride & Prejudice fans to peruse.
Book I: The Road Not Taken
Oh. My. Goodness! The depth and despair of Book I evoked immense feelings. I had a difficult time putting the book down! I can truthfully say I have never read a Pride & Prejudice variation like this one. It begins with Darcy walking to Hunsford immediately prior to his botched proposal and Elizabeth’s strong refusal of it. We are privy to Darcy’s thoughts and inner reactions, before, during and after that proposal. I particularly enjoyed reading these since they were from a man’s point of view. The author did a fantastic job of allowing this reader to feel with Darcy as Elizabeth brings home her anger and prejudices at what she believed to be his arrogance and pride.
The consequences of Lizzy’s decision could, most assuredly, have ended in disaster, instead of happily ever after. Book I: The Road Not Taken answers the following questions and more. What if Darcy’s horse was injured on that fateful day when Elizabeth was at Pemberley with the Gardiners and he didn’t see her? What if Darcy didn’t know about Lydia’s elopement and, therefore, was not able to force Wickham’s hand? What if something happened to Mr. Bennet? What if? The consequences of choices made and one incident changed transform this narrative from the original to what could have been. All characters are affected. Every action has such a domino effect that no one is left untouched. The saying, “No man is an island” has never been more clearly depicted.
When I finished Book I, I cried. I cried even before I finished it and I thought about it for some time. I continue to think on it, even now. My one consolation to those feelings of utter loss was knowing that Book II was the alternate possibility/reality/dream. Even though the first novella had much angst and sorrow, I would not have missed it for the world. It was riveting and emotionally charged.
Book II: The Sleeper Wakes
While visiting Hunsford, Elizabeth awakens from a horrible nightmare and is left with feelings of ‘loneliness, despair, hopelessness and fear’. Although the details of this dream are vague, the emotions aroused are not. A long talk with Charlotte elicits a promise from Lizzy which keeps her from spewing those angry words of refusal when Fitzwilliam Darcy surprises her with a proposal the following night. What if Lizzy decides to marry Darcy even though she does not love him? What if there is never an accidental meeting at Pemberley or the letter exposing Wickham? What if dear sweet Jane is allowed to show a bit of justifiable temper? What if? The consequences of choices made change this narrative from the original too, but not in a devastating manner. This happily ever after affects the characters in a positive light.
Both books have some life lessons that can be gleaned from the pages. Also, there were several thoughts introduced that I must confess I had never before considered. Bearing in mind the number of these novels which I have read, that fact was an eye-opener. I have purposely given few specific details as my intention was to entice not spoil!
There are some great quotes at the beginning of each chapter and an informative Q & A at the end of the book. Loved these extra bonuses!
Author C.P. Odom has outdone himself with this book. He has a good command of Regency language and tells a brilliant story. It is an exceptional read and one that I would encourage all Jane Austen and Pride & Prejudice fans to peruse.
February 11, 2014
Life is a series of calculations, steps and decisions that make up all of our experiences. What would happen if we had the ability to see how certain decisions affected the rest of our lives? Would we willingly change our fate and the fates of others or would we follow our instincts? C.P. Odom explores these questions in his latest Pride and Prejudice variation, Consequences.
We often see the consequences of Elizabeth Bennet’s choices in a different light via Pride and Prejudice retellings. In Consequences we find her rejecting Mr. Darcy’s first proposal at the Hunsford Parsonage, only to set forth a series of events she could not possibly have imagined. This fateful decision affects not only her own path, but the lives and livelihood of her entire family, with shocking final results. Of course, Elizabeth could not possibly have known that one single decision could have such a lasting impact on her life; but would reflecting on the potential outcome change her decision? C.P. Odom shows us how one single point in the seemingly endless parade of decisions in one’s life can have such a visceral impact on the paths we travel.
Every so often a book will come along that has the ability to take us on a wild emotional ride. Consequences is just such a book. I’m still reeling from the extreme emotions that this book was able to incite within me. There were times that the writing was so moving that I had to put the book down and just reflect for a bit. Odom is certainly a person who understands the depths of human condition. The inner musings that Elizabeth and Darcy experience throughout the book are extremely reflective, and in my opinion certainly resemble the inner turmoil they must have felt in Austen’s original work. There were times that the writing got a bit depressing (the first half of the book in particular), but I was pleased to see the events turn around enough to lift my spirits in the end.
Consequences may very well be one of the most unique variations on Pride and Prejudice that I’ve ever read. It’s difficult to write about why the book is unique without giving away what makes it so special. So instead of ruining it let’s just say – the beginning of Part II of the book will absolutely surprise, astound, and shock you.
It’s also refreshing to see Elizabeth and Darcy’s story written through a male author’s perspective. Prior to reading this, I’d only ever read one other male JAFF (Jane Austen Fan Fiction) author’s work by Jack Caldwell. I think that in most retellings/variations/what-ifs I’ve read, the majority of the blame for the multiple misunderstandings between Elizabeth and Darcy is placed on Darcy. And while I agree that he is at fault for his haughty behavior, I also know Elizabeth is just as responsible for misjudging him. Odom writes the inner thoughts of Darcy and Elizabeth very self-reflectively. They both realize the errors of their previous actions and take pains to make amends. Moving, deep, and thought-provoking, Consequences is a unique reading experience you’re really going to want to go on and on.
Kimberly (Reflections of a Book Addict)
Originally Posted: http://austenprose.com/2014/02/10/con...
We often see the consequences of Elizabeth Bennet’s choices in a different light via Pride and Prejudice retellings. In Consequences we find her rejecting Mr. Darcy’s first proposal at the Hunsford Parsonage, only to set forth a series of events she could not possibly have imagined. This fateful decision affects not only her own path, but the lives and livelihood of her entire family, with shocking final results. Of course, Elizabeth could not possibly have known that one single decision could have such a lasting impact on her life; but would reflecting on the potential outcome change her decision? C.P. Odom shows us how one single point in the seemingly endless parade of decisions in one’s life can have such a visceral impact on the paths we travel.
Every so often a book will come along that has the ability to take us on a wild emotional ride. Consequences is just such a book. I’m still reeling from the extreme emotions that this book was able to incite within me. There were times that the writing was so moving that I had to put the book down and just reflect for a bit. Odom is certainly a person who understands the depths of human condition. The inner musings that Elizabeth and Darcy experience throughout the book are extremely reflective, and in my opinion certainly resemble the inner turmoil they must have felt in Austen’s original work. There were times that the writing got a bit depressing (the first half of the book in particular), but I was pleased to see the events turn around enough to lift my spirits in the end.
Consequences may very well be one of the most unique variations on Pride and Prejudice that I’ve ever read. It’s difficult to write about why the book is unique without giving away what makes it so special. So instead of ruining it let’s just say – the beginning of Part II of the book will absolutely surprise, astound, and shock you.
It’s also refreshing to see Elizabeth and Darcy’s story written through a male author’s perspective. Prior to reading this, I’d only ever read one other male JAFF (Jane Austen Fan Fiction) author’s work by Jack Caldwell. I think that in most retellings/variations/what-ifs I’ve read, the majority of the blame for the multiple misunderstandings between Elizabeth and Darcy is placed on Darcy. And while I agree that he is at fault for his haughty behavior, I also know Elizabeth is just as responsible for misjudging him. Odom writes the inner thoughts of Darcy and Elizabeth very self-reflectively. They both realize the errors of their previous actions and take pains to make amends. Moving, deep, and thought-provoking, Consequences is a unique reading experience you’re really going to want to go on and on.
Kimberly (Reflections of a Book Addict)
Originally Posted: http://austenprose.com/2014/02/10/con...
September 17, 2014
This book was unique in this genre' in multiple ways: It is a "what-if" re-imagining of Pride and Prejudice beginning with Elizabeth Bennet's considering Fitzwilliam Darcy's initial marriage proposal; it is written by a man which sets it apart; it is really two novellas combined into a single work.
The first novella explores the 'consequences' of Miss Bennet's refusal of Mr. Darcy's marriage proposal at Hunsford and draws this out in a worst-case-scenario over their lifetimes. To say it is unrelentingly sad and tragic is an understatement. Just when the reader thinks it cannot get any worse, it does. The author explores the feelings, emotions, and reflections with great emotional depth and pathos. The unfulfilled lives of the principals are drawn out in exquisitely painful detail. I had a difficult time keeping my own emotions in check so ladies, get a box of Kleenex and press on!
The second novella is the glorious exact reverse of the initial one with Miss Bennet actually accepting Mr. Darcy's bungled marriage proposal and the repercussions that trickle down from that momentous decision on the lovers, their families, friends, and acquaintances.
If you, dear reader, can make it through the initial and disastrous novella without going to pieces you will be fully rewarded with the results of the second novella!
The only reason I did not rate this work five stars was the extended length of the first novella and the curtailed length of the second one. I would have liked to have read further into the future on the second novella to see what transpired in the lives of Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam. However, this is just my personal preference but reading the author's beautiful "what if" rendition of Miss Bennet's acceptance of Mr. Darcy's initial marriage proposal is worth the misery of slogging through the first novella's consequences.
There are so few male authors plying the rich soil of this genre' that I wanted to give C. P. Odom a huge "attaboy" from another incurable romantic.
The first novella explores the 'consequences' of Miss Bennet's refusal of Mr. Darcy's marriage proposal at Hunsford and draws this out in a worst-case-scenario over their lifetimes. To say it is unrelentingly sad and tragic is an understatement. Just when the reader thinks it cannot get any worse, it does. The author explores the feelings, emotions, and reflections with great emotional depth and pathos. The unfulfilled lives of the principals are drawn out in exquisitely painful detail. I had a difficult time keeping my own emotions in check so ladies, get a box of Kleenex and press on!
The second novella is the glorious exact reverse of the initial one with Miss Bennet actually accepting Mr. Darcy's bungled marriage proposal and the repercussions that trickle down from that momentous decision on the lovers, their families, friends, and acquaintances.
If you, dear reader, can make it through the initial and disastrous novella without going to pieces you will be fully rewarded with the results of the second novella!
The only reason I did not rate this work five stars was the extended length of the first novella and the curtailed length of the second one. I would have liked to have read further into the future on the second novella to see what transpired in the lives of Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam. However, this is just my personal preference but reading the author's beautiful "what if" rendition of Miss Bennet's acceptance of Mr. Darcy's initial marriage proposal is worth the misery of slogging through the first novella's consequences.
There are so few male authors plying the rich soil of this genre' that I wanted to give C. P. Odom a huge "attaboy" from another incurable romantic.
December 29, 2019
Quite Creative. 4.5 Stars rounded up to 5
I found "Consequences" a very creative tale.
** SPOILERS **
The first part of the story had me in tears most of the time. I don't know how actually got through it. Don't get me wrong, I really loved this book. But a few times I almost stopped because I thought the storyline was too overwhelmingly sad and felt ODC should not face so much adversity and then to have them end so tragically without getting their HEA. When I found Elizabeth waking from a nightmare, the relief I felt was tremendous but I did find the second part of the book was less emotionally charged as the first part which I would have hoped was not the case. I liked the second half but it was not as captivating as the first part.
I found "Consequences" a very creative tale.
** SPOILERS **
The first part of the story had me in tears most of the time. I don't know how actually got through it. Don't get me wrong, I really loved this book. But a few times I almost stopped because I thought the storyline was too overwhelmingly sad and felt ODC should not face so much adversity and then to have them end so tragically without getting their HEA. When I found Elizabeth waking from a nightmare, the relief I felt was tremendous but I did find the second part of the book was less emotionally charged as the first part which I would have hoped was not the case. I liked the second half but it was not as captivating as the first part.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2017
This is the kind of book that will stay with you for days after the last page. Having read it several times on-line site, I solicited publisher Meryton Press to please publish this story and consider me to edit it. When they did just that, I was surprised that Regardless of the many read throughs how it still brought me to tears. The first half of the book is not your typical happily ever after of the Jane Austen pastiche. Consequences made me weep; then weep for joy. C.P. Odom is a gifted storyteller- and authentic to Jane Austen and her times. So you may think I am biased, but I had to express how much this story has long affected me.
March 10, 2017
I loved this clever variation with 2 different outcomes. The first one is painful, and I don't think I can read it again. But the second one had a HEA, with Elizabeth managing to look past her prejudices much sooner.
March 13, 2021
This story is like Sliding Doors in that a small difference in timing changes everything. The first part is very dark. The second part is captivating.
This one is a keeper, it was unputdownable on the first read and I'm sure to return to this one.
This one is a keeper, it was unputdownable on the first read and I'm sure to return to this one.
August 13, 2016
I just love re-tellings and "What if" variations of Pride and Prejudice!
August 24, 2014
-------------------| Blog | Facebook | Twitter |-------------------
Disfruto de la escritura de este autor porque cuando tiene que tomar alguna parte del original de Orgullo y prejuicio, no lo hace al pie de la letra, como muchos, sino que interpreta su contenido dándole un giro con reflexiva coherencia y con mucha profundidad en dichas cavilaciones, resultando su punto de vista sumamente interesante.
En esta historia, haciendo uso de esa sagaz lógica y tocando un hecho verídico en la época de la Regencia como son los matrimonios concertados, en su gran mayoría, no por amor sino para mantener o mejorar un estatus social y económico; las mujeres eran arrojadas a esposos que las querían para concebir un heredero —si buscaban más entonces recurrían a una amante—; por su parte las damas tenían que sentirse afortunadas por obtener una propuesta sin pensar en sus sentimientos sino en lograr sus objetivos. Ninguna mujer habría rechazado a Fitzwilliam Darcy teniendo conocimiento de su posición e importancia, tal y como hizo Elizabeth Bennet, una mujer independiente, con la ferviente idea de casarse por amor, no iba a ceder a la voluntad del caballero por muy rico que éste fuera. Pero ante la desgracia de la fuga de su hermana Lydia y la muerte de su padre, todo su mundo, la de su madre y resto de sus hermanas, cambia radicalmente. Es ahí donde entran las interesantes reflexiones del señor Odom sobre las consecuencias de rechazar un matrimonio tan ventajoso.
Esta variación se inicia con la declaración del señor Darcy a Elizabeth Bennet —otro autor, quizá, hubiera repetido esta escena con el contenido de la carta, pero el señor Odom, no, él la reescribe aplicando su propia reflexión del contenido que te sumerge más en la historia y te da otro punto de vista de Orgullo y prejuicio—, y me preguntaba por qué inicia su historia en este punto cuando la variación se aplica durante la visita de los Gardiners y Elizabeth a Pemberley —según el original, aquí hay un encuentro casual entre Darcy y Elizabeth—. En la variación no hay encuentro, sus caminos se cruzan pero no llegan a verse. Los que hemos leído Orgullo y prejuicio sabemos la importancia de ese encuentro en Pemberley... entonces ¿qué pasa si éste no se lleva a cabo?...
Todo lo que sigue a continuación es desolador... muertes, abandonos, insultos, humillaciones, propuestas viles, recriminaciones, gritos... Pero en medio de tanta desesperanza hay una luz del propio espíritu para seguir luchando y no dejarse consumir en sus propias desgracias, aceptando las consequencias de las decisiones tomadas, para aprender, porque al final, aunque todo parece negro, un alma que no tiende a la melancolía encuentra el camino para seguir viviendo.
Entonces a pesar de la angustia de este primer libro, viene el segundo, pensé que el señor Odom no podía sorprenderme más; hace su inicio del segundo libro con ímpetu a través de las reflexiones de Charlotte sobre el señor Darcy intentando convencer a su amiga de sus erróneas ideas prejuiciosas contra el caballero. Fue muy acertado y divertido ver la lógica y practicidad del pensamiento de Charlotte unido a la más alta sensibilidad y romanticismo de su proceder; y por otro lado, la tranquilidad y serenidad de Jane Bennet con su vehemencia implacable al manisfestar su descontento ante una injusticia o un error de juicio de su querida hermana. A pesar de que algunos hechos pasan muy rápido, es recompensado con el exhaustivo tiempo que proporciona a otras situaciones como por ejemplo las que influyen en Elizabeth sobre su cambio de opinión y la aceptación de los errores del señor Darcy.
Me surge una inquietud, ¿por qué unir estas dos historias tan distintas en sus variaciones y resoluciones? El autor nos muestra dos destinos diametralmente opuestos, resultando este segundo libro un bálsamo a la angustia tan grande que nos deja el primero, y es justamente esto, lo curioso de este libro, ya que si nos hubiera ofrecido los dos libros por separado, quizá, habrían pasado como dos variaciones más, pero al ser contrastadas, definitivamente acierta; siendo el primero bastante revolucionario en su planteamiento y en el cómo suceden los hechos; de haberlo dejado allí, seguramente, no habría gustado. Entonces allí viene la importancia del segundo libro, que por sí solo, pierde valor al ser una variación más, pero juntos son el complemento perfecto.
Al terminar ambos libros nos dejan las sensaciones disparadas, las emociones a flor de piel y reflexiones a tomar en cuenta, por lo tanto, la intención del autor se cumple. Nuestras decisiones tienen consecuencias que no solo pueden cambiar el destino de nuestras vidas sino el de otras personas que son importantes para uno, pero ¿hasta qué punto somos capaces de renunciar a lo que somos, por ser, lo que tenemos que ser por el deber y el amor de nuestros seres queridos?; en nuestros tiempos puede resultar quimérico, pero en aquella época era muy diferente y el autor intenta reflejárnoslo claramente.
May 25, 2021
Loved this book!! This author gives us two possible what-if scenarios: one dark, one light.
The first half of the book is an angst-filled version of how events would have shaken out had Elizabeth not run into Darcy during her tour of Pemberley with her aunt and uncle. This was an angst heavy version that led me to tears more than once. It still had a happy ending, somewhat, kind of.... but certainly not much at all! The author weaves this first version of events into the second part of the book in a very clever and unique way that alters how events would have unfolded during Darcy and Elizabeth’s time in Kent. I don’t want to say much more to avoid spoilers. It will make sense when you read the book, which I highly recommend.
I am glad the second half was much less angst-filled. I truly loved Jane’s character here, so well developed and fierce while staying true to her character! I appreciated the author keeping Elizabeth and Mr. Bennet’s relationship strong, and I loved the way Darcy and Elizabeth’s characters grew as they began to better understand themselves and their own faults.
Things I wished for:
- More development and chemistry between Darcy and Elizabeth. .
- I do so wish the booking didn’t end where it did. After so much angst, I was hoping for at least a couple chapters of our happy couple.
- Some things left unfinished: mainly what happens with Wickham, and the Collins’ (after reading of some events in the first part of the book, leaves me to wonder how it would have turned out in the second part of the book).
The first half of the book is an angst-filled version of how events would have shaken out had Elizabeth not run into Darcy during her tour of Pemberley with her aunt and uncle. This was an angst heavy version that led me to tears more than once. It still had a happy ending, somewhat, kind of.... but certainly not much at all! The author weaves this first version of events into the second part of the book in a very clever and unique way that alters how events would have unfolded during Darcy and Elizabeth’s time in Kent. I don’t want to say much more to avoid spoilers. It will make sense when you read the book, which I highly recommend.
I am glad the second half was much less angst-filled. I truly loved Jane’s character here, so well developed and fierce while staying true to her character! I appreciated the author keeping Elizabeth and Mr. Bennet’s relationship strong, and I loved the way Darcy and Elizabeth’s characters grew as they began to better understand themselves and their own faults.
Things I wished for:
- More development and chemistry between Darcy and Elizabeth. .
- I do so wish the booking didn’t end where it did. After so much angst, I was hoping for at least a couple chapters of our happy couple.
- Some things left unfinished: mainly what happens with Wickham, and the Collins’ (after reading of some events in the first part of the book, leaves me to wonder how it would have turned out in the second part of the book).
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews