What do you think?
Rate this book
Captain Wentworth's Persuasion: Jane Austen's Classic Retold Through His Eyes
Insightful and dramatic, this novel recreates the original style, themes, and sardonic humor of Jane Austen’s novel while turning the entire tale on its head in a most engaging fashion. Readers hear Captain Wentworth’s side of this tangled story in the revelation of his thoughts and emotions. Wentworth initially suffers rejection and frustration because the titled Elliots do not consider him good enough for their daughter Anne. Despite her feelings for Wentworth, Anne allows others to persuade her to break off their engagement. Eight years later, when Wentworth returns from fighting against Napoleon’s army, the difficult years of war have reversed fortunes. Now it is he who is rich, having won many prizes in battle, while the Elliots are deeply in debt and in danger of losing their good name. Will Wentworth seek revenge by choosing another woman over his former love? Can he walk away from Anne, or will the memory of her lips and her touch capture his love once again?
385 pages, Paperback
First published April 30, 2009
52 people are currently reading
1612 people want to read
About the author
Regina Jeffers
132 books707 followersRegina Jeffers, an award-winning author of historical cozy mysteries, Austenesque sequels and retellings, as well as Regency era romances, has worn many hats over her lifetime: daughter, student, military brat, wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, tax preparer, journalist, choreographer, Broadway dancer, theatre director, history buff, grant writer, media literacy consultant, and author. Living outside of Charlotte, NC, Jeffers writes novels that take the ordinary and adds a bit of mayhem, while mastering tension in her own life with a bit of gardening and the exuberance of her “grand joys.”
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
November 21, 2010
There are few readers of Jane Austen’s Persuasion who have finished the novel and not been more than a little in love with the dashing Captain Frederick Wentworth. His famous “you pierce my soul” letter to heroine Anne Elliot is one of the most moving love letters in literary history. Happily, author Regina Jeffers has given his fans another opportunity to relive the story in Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion. Entirely retold through his eyes via flashbacks and expanded sequences in the present, we are offered the same classic love story, but from an entirely new perspective.
Frederick Wentworth and Anne Elliot were engaged once upon a time. Anne was persuaded not to marry him due to his low standing in society and his lack of fortune. Being the daughter of a baronet she was expected to marry someone of good fortune and high social standing. Eight years later their paths cross again, but with reversed financial circumstances. He is now a wealthy Captain returned from the war, and the Elliot family is so far in debt they must retrench and rent out their family estate of Kellynch Hall to Frederick’s sister Sophy and her husband Admiral Croft. When Frederick and Anne are reunited, they must discover if they still love each other, or if they are lost to each other forever.
“I created a quagmire. When I first went to Uppercross, I purposely entertained the attention of Miss Musgrove. I needed Anne to see how others wanted me, even though she did not. I played games for which I now must pay. Lately, I decided I still wanted Anne, but I knew I had to distance myself from Louisa Musgrove, before I could plead my case with Miss Anne.”
With Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion, the entire story is infused with new life due to the strong characterizations that Ms. Jeffers writes. In the original Persuasion you know that Frederick stayed with his brother for a period of time that is not discussed in the novel. In Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion Jeffers creates the whole time period of their stay, essentially writing the character of Frederick’s brother Edward. She created a rich relationship that unlocked another portion of Frederick which was previously undiscovered.
My biggest disappointment in the novel was what Ms. Jeffers did to the character of Louisa Musgrove. She made her out to be a grudging, jealous, and immature character that just did not seem to fit with the character Austen originally created. Austen had Louisa become engaged to Captain Benwick due to a change in her personality from her fall at the Cobb at Lyme. In Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion I saw no change from the frivolous girl she was prior to her serious injury and recovery.
I absolutely loved this novel. Most Jane Austen inspired retellings that I’ve read just give the same story that Austen wrote without much of the author’s own creativity. Ms. Jeffers takes Austen’s story and gives it back to the reader in a new way, taking the events we know to have happened, but expanding on them. She takes what happens after the wedding and tells their past, present and future all at the same time. It made the book fly by. I was done with it before I even realized it.
Previously published in 2009 as Wayward Love: Captain Wentworth’s Story, I highly recommend this book to any Persuasion fan. I can safely say that you will not be disappointed with it. The scenes and events that Ms. Jeffers creates for the unwritten scenes in Persuasion really do shed new light on the characters that we know and love.
You can read my review here: http://austenprose.com/2010/11/21/cap...
Frederick Wentworth and Anne Elliot were engaged once upon a time. Anne was persuaded not to marry him due to his low standing in society and his lack of fortune. Being the daughter of a baronet she was expected to marry someone of good fortune and high social standing. Eight years later their paths cross again, but with reversed financial circumstances. He is now a wealthy Captain returned from the war, and the Elliot family is so far in debt they must retrench and rent out their family estate of Kellynch Hall to Frederick’s sister Sophy and her husband Admiral Croft. When Frederick and Anne are reunited, they must discover if they still love each other, or if they are lost to each other forever.
“I created a quagmire. When I first went to Uppercross, I purposely entertained the attention of Miss Musgrove. I needed Anne to see how others wanted me, even though she did not. I played games for which I now must pay. Lately, I decided I still wanted Anne, but I knew I had to distance myself from Louisa Musgrove, before I could plead my case with Miss Anne.”
With Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion, the entire story is infused with new life due to the strong characterizations that Ms. Jeffers writes. In the original Persuasion you know that Frederick stayed with his brother for a period of time that is not discussed in the novel. In Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion Jeffers creates the whole time period of their stay, essentially writing the character of Frederick’s brother Edward. She created a rich relationship that unlocked another portion of Frederick which was previously undiscovered.
My biggest disappointment in the novel was what Ms. Jeffers did to the character of Louisa Musgrove. She made her out to be a grudging, jealous, and immature character that just did not seem to fit with the character Austen originally created. Austen had Louisa become engaged to Captain Benwick due to a change in her personality from her fall at the Cobb at Lyme. In Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion I saw no change from the frivolous girl she was prior to her serious injury and recovery.
I absolutely loved this novel. Most Jane Austen inspired retellings that I’ve read just give the same story that Austen wrote without much of the author’s own creativity. Ms. Jeffers takes Austen’s story and gives it back to the reader in a new way, taking the events we know to have happened, but expanding on them. She takes what happens after the wedding and tells their past, present and future all at the same time. It made the book fly by. I was done with it before I even realized it.
Previously published in 2009 as Wayward Love: Captain Wentworth’s Story, I highly recommend this book to any Persuasion fan. I can safely say that you will not be disappointed with it. The scenes and events that Ms. Jeffers creates for the unwritten scenes in Persuasion really do shed new light on the characters that we know and love.
You can read my review here: http://austenprose.com/2010/11/21/cap...
August 20, 2011
This was my one and only foray into Jane Austen fan fiction. Persuasion is my favourite Austen novel and probably my favourite novel full stop. I decided to read this book in order to extend the joy of having recently re-read it. However, that was not to be. From my perspective, it consisted of slabs of Persuasion, interspersed with writing infinitely inferior to that of Austen's. I accept that this will appeal to many Austen fans: just not to me. I won't be reading any more such novels. In future I'll stick to re-reading Austen. Nothing compares to it.
June 15, 2010
It reads more like a cheesy romance novel than anything, but I knew that when I picked it up. However, I found myself laughing and rolling my eyes at the professions of love repeated on just about every page from both Captain Wentworth and Anne. It was just excessive. And towards the end of the book, it seemed like Captain Wentworth ended up sweeping Anne up in his manly-man arms and carrying her everywhere. I don't mind a little corny, carrying-his-lady-love-over-the-threshold type stuff, but jeez, she does have her own legs.
The story itself is alright, although the last 70 or so pages are a bit over-the-top and tedious. Plus, the ending was not very surprising or original, since it reminded me of (SPOILERS!) Mr. Darcy Takes a Wife (END OF SPOILERS).
Ms. Jeffers writing style was fine - nothing special, but not bad for this type of book. It really annoyed me though, that she would use sentances and entire paragraphs pulled word-for-word from Austen's original Persuasion. First of all, Austen's style is pretty unique, so it stuck out like a sore thumb. Second of all, it didn't make sense within the context of the story, since the original Persuasion, even in the narration, was largely from Anne's point of view, so for the same words to appear in a book from Wentworth's point of view just didn't make sense. Third of all, it just seemed lazy and borderline plagarism for her to copy Austen's descriptions word-for-word like that.
The story itself is alright, although the last 70 or so pages are a bit over-the-top and tedious. Plus, the ending was not very surprising or original, since it reminded me of (SPOILERS!) Mr. Darcy Takes a Wife (END OF SPOILERS).
Ms. Jeffers writing style was fine - nothing special, but not bad for this type of book. It really annoyed me though, that she would use sentances and entire paragraphs pulled word-for-word from Austen's original Persuasion. First of all, Austen's style is pretty unique, so it stuck out like a sore thumb. Second of all, it didn't make sense within the context of the story, since the original Persuasion, even in the narration, was largely from Anne's point of view, so for the same words to appear in a book from Wentworth's point of view just didn't make sense. Third of all, it just seemed lazy and borderline plagarism for her to copy Austen's descriptions word-for-word like that.
December 9, 2017
I love the idea of the book, Persuasion from Captain Wentworths' POV. Persuasion is my favourite Austen book and is often overlooked, this was nicely refreshing and is well executed. I love that the story extends to there first meeting and after the end of the original story. I especially love that the dream Wentworth has is the original ending that Austen wrote for persuasion before re drafting the story.
I was not a fan of the proud Anne Wentworth at the end, this seemed to go against her character completely. I also wasn't really a fan of some of the last developments in the story.
I was not a fan of the proud Anne Wentworth at the end, this seemed to go against her character completely. I also wasn't really a fan of some of the last developments in the story.
April 7, 2020
Persuasion in Wentworth's PoV
Deliciously emotional rendition of Persuasion in Captain Wentworth's point of view. In addition, the story contains some scenes from prior to the book and it continues after they marry.
I particularly liked heart-wrenching moments when Wentworth thought all hope was lost and the twist to their lives after their marriage.
I have deducted a star because the first half is written in dream sequences. The book enters after they had married and shifts back and forth between the past and the presence. It disturbed the flow and gave it a disjointed feel.
Recommend
Deliciously emotional rendition of Persuasion in Captain Wentworth's point of view. In addition, the story contains some scenes from prior to the book and it continues after they marry.
I particularly liked heart-wrenching moments when Wentworth thought all hope was lost and the twist to their lives after their marriage.
I have deducted a star because the first half is written in dream sequences. The book enters after they had married and shifts back and forth between the past and the presence. It disturbed the flow and gave it a disjointed feel.
Recommend
April 2, 2013
Persuasion is possibly my favorite Austen novel, and despite the abundance of Pride and Prejudice sequels, reimaginings and modern remakes (of which I own far too many), I was very excited to read this retelling of Persuasion instead.
Like all Austen-inspired works, I try to judge them on their own merits, in the context of their own bizarre little sub-genre, rather than comparing an Austen sequel to another contemporary novel, romance, etc.
Captain Wentworth's Persuasion start after the events of the original novel and then retells, in flashbacks, the story of Persuasion from the hero's perspective instead of the heroine's. There's really nothing wrong with that. However, the author tries to, from time to time, write in a Regency style that just doesn't work. Then, she'll lift a passage or conversation from the original and plop it into the middle of her own pseudo-Regency style. The result? Well, nobody really writes like Austen except for Austen. These borrowed passages stick out like a pearl among pebbles and make the reader notice the flaws in the author's style all the more.
(Spoilers ahoy)
The first three-quarters of the book are just a simple retelling of what readers already know, with a few too many PDAs tossed in to be really true-to-era. Then the final quarter is a tacked-on, saccharine fairy tale-cum-smuggler adventure. The Wentworths not only have love and his admirable fortune from the war (which seemed like a happy enough ending to me), but Frederick becomes a national hero! And then he gets praised publicly by the Prince! And then they get a better title than Anne's father, which will make him respect his son-in-law! And then they have twins! And they get a perfect estate! And then Frederick foils a plot(?) by smugglers(?) to do...something...? Exclamation point!
Honestly, I had stopped caring at this point, just wanting the book to be over. The most satisfying parts of the story were in the original plot, anyway.
(End Spoilers)
The original story was satisfying enough without having the author's over-the-top additions at the end. This book is at its best right up until the new stuff makes an appearance. There's really nothing wrong with imagining new situations for characters to face, or new places for them to go, but this story takes away any tension by making all the challenges thin and the rewards too great. "You had an argument with your dad? Here, have a winning lottery ticket." It's just a little absurd.
All that being said, I did enjoy the book.
But I'd far rather read the original one more time than give this one a second glance.
Like all Austen-inspired works, I try to judge them on their own merits, in the context of their own bizarre little sub-genre, rather than comparing an Austen sequel to another contemporary novel, romance, etc.
Captain Wentworth's Persuasion start after the events of the original novel and then retells, in flashbacks, the story of Persuasion from the hero's perspective instead of the heroine's. There's really nothing wrong with that. However, the author tries to, from time to time, write in a Regency style that just doesn't work. Then, she'll lift a passage or conversation from the original and plop it into the middle of her own pseudo-Regency style. The result? Well, nobody really writes like Austen except for Austen. These borrowed passages stick out like a pearl among pebbles and make the reader notice the flaws in the author's style all the more.
(Spoilers ahoy)
The first three-quarters of the book are just a simple retelling of what readers already know, with a few too many PDAs tossed in to be really true-to-era. Then the final quarter is a tacked-on, saccharine fairy tale-cum-smuggler adventure. The Wentworths not only have love and his admirable fortune from the war (which seemed like a happy enough ending to me), but Frederick becomes a national hero! And then he gets praised publicly by the Prince! And then they get a better title than Anne's father, which will make him respect his son-in-law! And then they have twins! And they get a perfect estate! And then Frederick foils a plot(?) by smugglers(?) to do...something...? Exclamation point!
Honestly, I had stopped caring at this point, just wanting the book to be over. The most satisfying parts of the story were in the original plot, anyway.
(End Spoilers)
The original story was satisfying enough without having the author's over-the-top additions at the end. This book is at its best right up until the new stuff makes an appearance. There's really nothing wrong with imagining new situations for characters to face, or new places for them to go, but this story takes away any tension by making all the challenges thin and the rewards too great. "You had an argument with your dad? Here, have a winning lottery ticket." It's just a little absurd.
All that being said, I did enjoy the book.
But I'd far rather read the original one more time than give this one a second glance.
March 19, 2016
Dear reader,
Have you ever wondered about how Anne and Captain Wentworth met...what delicious thoughts pervaded the mind of at least one of the protagonists as he beheld Anne for the first time?
How did each react to the other on their second and subsequent meetings ,how did their brief but beautiful courtship pan out and how did it all go horribly wrong for this couple so happily in love?
Have you ever pondered on the myriad thoughts running through Frederick's mind,on his unique perspective on the matter?
Indeed dear reader,have you ever asked what happened after they were happily reunited,what became of this close and loving couple fated to get a second chance to begin again???
Well in this beautifully crafted tale we are granted access to Austen's beloved Persuasion, through the eyes of Captain Wentworth.
This is an enthralling story,which heartrendingly fills in all the gaps and answers the many questions we posed on finishing Austen's book.
I must say that I loved the way this story was told-drifting,as it does,from the present day when we see Anne tenderly nursing an injured C.Wentworth back to health,to the flashbacks, wherein we receive the backstory of their romance,to its happy conclusion with the happy couple starting a family.
This book is one that I would strongly recommend to all Austen fans,particularly those who hold a soft spot for Captain Wentworth....the language used to describe his feelings for her will simply take your breath away. Enjoy!
Have you ever wondered about how Anne and Captain Wentworth met...what delicious thoughts pervaded the mind of at least one of the protagonists as he beheld Anne for the first time?
How did each react to the other on their second and subsequent meetings ,how did their brief but beautiful courtship pan out and how did it all go horribly wrong for this couple so happily in love?
Have you ever pondered on the myriad thoughts running through Frederick's mind,on his unique perspective on the matter?
Indeed dear reader,have you ever asked what happened after they were happily reunited,what became of this close and loving couple fated to get a second chance to begin again???
Well in this beautifully crafted tale we are granted access to Austen's beloved Persuasion, through the eyes of Captain Wentworth.
This is an enthralling story,which heartrendingly fills in all the gaps and answers the many questions we posed on finishing Austen's book.
I must say that I loved the way this story was told-drifting,as it does,from the present day when we see Anne tenderly nursing an injured C.Wentworth back to health,to the flashbacks, wherein we receive the backstory of their romance,to its happy conclusion with the happy couple starting a family.
This book is one that I would strongly recommend to all Austen fans,particularly those who hold a soft spot for Captain Wentworth....the language used to describe his feelings for her will simply take your breath away. Enjoy!
June 28, 2021
review of
Regina Jeffers's Captain Wentworth's Persuasion
by tENTATIVELY, a cONVENIENCE - June 19-28, 2021
For the full review, go here: https://www.goodreads.com/story/show/...
"JANE AUSTEN'S Classic Retold Through His Eyes", the cover tells us. I only have 3 Austen novels in my personal library: Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, & Emma so I reckon those are the 3 I read oh-so-long ago, say 49 yrs ago, when I 'discovered' Austen in my fledgling attempts to find English lit to read that I might not've been exposed to in school. I liked Austen, I thought she was a good social observer w/ a wry wit - presumably much like the main woman protagonist of her Persuasion, Anne Elliot. I picked up this bk b/c I found it interesting that someone wd take a novel & rewrite it from the perspective of a different character. I even went to the 'extreme' of watching a BBC version of Persuasion to get a feel for how the original novel's been treated. I didn't expect Captain Wentworth's Persuasion to be 'great' literature &, IMO, it isn't. Still, the author took the trouble to write it & that's worth something to me - I reckon she's seriously passionate about the material. For the most part, Captain Wentworth's Persuasion is a romance novel - I didn't really expect that. As such, it wasn't for me & I'm not likely to recommend it to anyone I know. My copy is also in large print, I didn't mind that, it's nice to give my eyes a break, to have them not squinting at tiny 8 point footnotes. This was one of the 8 bks that I took on yrs ago to read that just dragged on & on for me. Hallelujah that I finally finished it.
An opening paragraph says:
"This optimized ReadHowYouWant edition contains the complete, unabridged text of the original publisher's edition. Other aspects of the book may vary from the original edition."
In other words, the bk's been "Set in 16 pt. Verdana". Apparently ReadHowYouWant editions enable people to have bks republished "formatted and typeset to make reading easier". Interesting.
Even tho I haven't read Persuasion & have only seen the movie, I deduce that Jeffers has added to the original story. There's an intercutting between Wentworth & Elliot being married & the original story of things leading up to that marriage.
"Captain Frederick Wentworth recognized the danger of pursuing the retreating French sloop, but he also recognized the need to keep the French from reaching reinforcements and from taking English secrets straight back to Bonaparte. He made the decision to take the French vessel despite the fact that his wife traveled aboard The Resolve with him." - p 1
"Now, Anne gazed at her husband as he ordered her below deck, trying to protect her from the worst of the battle." - p 2
Those were the days, eh?, when a naval captain might take his wife w/ him on his warship when a war was on? But, like I said, this is a ROMANCE NOVEL.
"He lived for the adventure of the sea, but he was her Frederick, a practical man who had accomplished his dreams by organizing the chaos of his mind. She touched the weathered lines of his face with her fingertips before lightly brushing his lips with hers.
""You will be safe, my Love," he said as he cupped her chin in the palm of one large hand.
""Of course, I am safe," Anne insisted. You are the captain of The Resolve; we are all safe under your command." She took his hand in hers, kissing the palm before releasing him. "Now do what you must do, Frederick. I will be well." With that, she left him. She shivered when she saw him load his gun, knowing the strong possibility of hand-to-hand combat when the British boarded the sloop." - pp 2-3
I never thought of Austen as writing romance novels but after reading this it's easier for me to perceive her in that way. Nonetheless, Jeffers pushes the romance angle further in a way that doesn't seem in keeping w/ Austen's style.
"Frederick swallowed hard, forcing his desire for her away. When she became his, it would be through an honest proposal. His head made the decision, but his body fought him. He wanted Anne—wanted her completely—yet, he would not act on his desire; he would do the honorable thing." - p 28
In other words, he wants to fuck her brains out. But such straightforward satisfaction is neither the way of the world or the way of Austen's original of of Jeffers'.
""Last Russell was unable to convince Sir Walter? Did your friend object to our union also? It is of no consequence. We will continue without their support."
""I cannot," she said again, but this time he knew the words spelled doom.
""You cannot what, Anne?" he demanded.
"Tears sprang to her eyes as she lifted her face to meet his gaze. "I cannot ... I cannot marry you, Frederick." One lone tear trickled down her face." - p 51
Well how about a quickie for the road then?
""Anne?" The soft pleading of his voice brought her attention back to his face. Under the influence of the strong drug, Frederick could not work out how to open is eyes. "Anne," he murmured again. Clouded by the laudanum, Frederick's mind tried to concentrate for more than a few minutes at a time; he found himself drifting back into sleep, into nightmares. He dreamed of losing her—his Anne —and now he need to know she was here with him—in this room—guaranteeing the nightmares no longer plagued him." - p 80
Laudanum? Remember that? Opiated alcohol? It usta be all the rage. Heck, that's so passé in an era of oxycodone. & let's not forget SSRIs & Ritalin & Adderall & all the rest.
Anne reads poetry. Each chapter of Captain Wentworth's Persuasion begins w/ poetry, sometimes by Byron, including the 1st 2 chapters.
"When we two parted
In silence and tears,
Half broken-hearted
To sever for years,
Pale grew thy cheel and cold,
Colder they kiss;
Truly that hour foretold
Sorrow to this.
- Lord Byron, "When we Two Parted"
""So beautiful." The words brought Anne's attention to the figure reclining lazily against the pillows. She sat reading a book of poetry as she tended his bedside. "Did you know I fell in love with you the first time I saw you in the mercantile? Your face—those delicately molded features and dark eyes—captivated me immediately. Somehow, I felt we understood each other. Odd, is it not?"" - p 111
Beware of that Byron guy. Did you know that his personal physician, Polidori, wrote a vampire novel inspired by Byron as a sexual predator? But wd Byron have been interested in Anne?
"Frederick grew less fearful of being in the same room with her. He treated Anne as everyone else did; she was a nonentity—she did not exist other than being part of the room decoration. In this manner, he could deal with her presence. Yet, as often as he tried to not let himself think of her, he foolishly succumbed nevertheless. It irritated him to see her treated as an afterthought in the minds of her family." - p 123
I don't think Jeffers exactly intended to write as if she were Austen, after all there's some content that wdn't've made it into Austen. I do think Jeffers wrote out of respect & love for Austen. Here're some sections that are on the obviously-not-Austen end of things:
"He pushed against the opening, forcing the skin together and squeezed the pus from around the stitches while Frederick gritted his teeth. "I will clean this with soap and water when we are finished. A tincture should heal it up soon enough. We will use leeches if we need to—if circulation becomes a problem." - p 155
""Lock the door, my Love, and come lie next to me."
"His words sent a shiver of excitement down her back. She turned to face him, worry if her eyes. "Frederick, we cannot. It is too soon.""
[..]
""Only your chemise, Anne." She reached back to undo the buttons of her gown, never taking her eyes from him. She let it drop from her shoulders to the floor before stepping out of it. Then she slipped under the blanket and turned into his embrace." - pp 158-159
Maybe this is tantric sex. There's plenty of curtailed ardor going on.
""Ctach me!" Louisa demanded as usual, once she climbed to the top of the stile. He did so, but tried to set her some distance away from him when her feet touched the ground again. She purposely clung to his lapels longer than necessary, and he gently removed her hands before offering her his arm. Before, he had welcomed her interest, but now he saw how he must find a way to curtail her ardor." - p 174
All I can say is that this Wentworth character must not be very horny.
"Contentment spread through him as he thought of finally having his own home—his own wife—his own children. Where would Anne fit into that picture? He never imagined anyone but her in his bed—at his side when he entered a room—taking meals at his table. Even after eight years only she stirred his soul." - p 192
Do you mean to tell me that no other woman ever brought his 3rd leg to attn?! He shd check whether he got killed in one of those wars he fought.
Now you might think that these characters are humble - but in the background there're always those people who actually do the work.
""So you went to Lyme?" Henrietta asked as she reached for one of the apple tarts brought in by a servant." - p 196
The novel goes backwards & forwards in time & I've deluberately left that intercutting w/o explanation until now.
"Anne pulled herself upright. "I preach patience and resignation, Captain, because I, too, suffered the pains of lost love, and I wish most desperately that someone had offered me such advice."
"Had her heard her correctly? Frederick felt his heart would break; his departure had hurt Anne as much as it had hurt him. He knew she spoke of their love, for, without a doubt, Anne had once loved him." - p 217
Now comes the big dramatic moment, a turning point. If I had a copy of the original handy I'd compare the 2 passages. But I don't.
"He put out his hands; she was to precipitate him by a half second. Lousia's body floating through the air in slow motion; her shirt tail and cloak spread out like angel wings. Frederick saw the horror overtake her face when she realized he could not catch her, and her body braced for the impact. The thudding sound reverberated as she fell on the pavement on the Lower Cobb and was taken up lifeless." - p 234
Well, let's not exaggerate, she wasn't exactly "lifeless".
Maybe the following fetishistic behavior explains Wentworth's curious lack of sex drive.
"In an impetuous move, he kissed the corner of the folded page before he sealed it with wax. His kiss would touch her fingertips as she unfolded the paper to read his message. Closing his eyes, he envisioned his lips caressing Anne's fingertips in a playful seduction. It was all he could do not to groan as the vision played across his mind." - pp 254-255
Readers of the original novel might remember that Frederick asked Anne to marry him when she was young & her family refused to permit it. Frederick went away heartbroken & joined that navy. 8 yrs later he was still in love w/ Anne but felt hopeless & uncertain about her affections.
""Why not renew your proposal now? Do you believe Miss Anne is indifferent to you?" Edward leaned back in his chair. He knew to let Frederick tell his story at his own pace.
""I created a quagmire. When I first went to Uppercross, I purposely entertained the attention of Miss Musgrove. I needed Anne to see how others wanted me, even though she did not. I played games for which I now must pay. Lately, I decided I still wanted Anne, but I knew I had to distance myself from Louisa Musgrove, before I could plead my case with Miss Anne."" - p 278
A more diabolical novelist might've had Wentworth deliberately missing catching Louisa in the hope that she wd die. This is a more civil novel. There are schemers afoot - but not our 2 heros.
""A very fine man indeed!" said Lady Dalrymple. "More air than one often sees in Bath. —Irish, I daresay. Do you know him?"
""No, I just know his name. A bowing acquaintance. Wentworth—Captain Wentworth of the Navy. His sister married my tenant in Somersetshire—Admiral Croft, who rents my Kellynch."
"Frederick's body turned first hot with anger and then cold with humiliation. Sir Walter did not even do him the courtesy of remembering him, the man who had asked for his daughter's hand." - p 317
& hence there's class struggle. Maybe the original was a precursor to D. H. Lawrence's Lady Chatterly's Lover. At any rate, romance is never far behind.
"Anne snaked her arms around his neck, lacing her fingers through his hair. "I believe I have heard this story before." She giggled as he kissed the sensitive spot between her neck and shoulder. "But," she gasped as his lips traced a line from her ear to the base of her neck, "I believe—it needs—retelling."" - pp 326-327
But the tantric postponement of satisfaction just drones on & on..
"Out of the corner of his eye, Frederick noted how outwardly composed Anne appeared, and he wondered how he must look to the others. The moment she walked into the room, he felt himself plunged at once into all the agitations which he had merely anticipated tasting a little before the morning closed." - p 360
& after the not-particularly-exquisite prolongation, on p 372, we finally get there..
""Please say that I am not too late."
"Anne released her hand from his, but she did so to trace the outline of his lips. "Yours is the face I see every time I close my eyes. It has been so for eight years—nothing you could say or do would ever change that."" - p 372
How about 'I contracted syphilis & gonorrhea from fucking my cabin boy in the Navy'?
But, no, Wentworth doesn't say that so everything's OK.. except that the frustration just rolls on & on, the society of the time is just too uptight. The endless decorum.
""This way, Captain." Anne motioned to a table with port, wine, lemonade, and champagne. Frederick followed her there; it was the closest he would come to being alone with her for the next few hours. "Champagne, Captain?" she said as she handed him a glass and took one for herself. "To us," Anne mouthed the words." - p 390
&, yes, goshdarnitalltoheck&tarnation&backagain, Anne's father finally OKs the marriage between the 2 protagonists, despite the class difference. & it only took 398 (large print) pages to get there. Was it worth the wait? Maybe for the ficitonal characters, I have my doubts about this particular reader.
""My friends and family," he began in his most pretentious tone, "it is with pleasure that I announce that our modest card party has become a momentous occasion. My daughter Anne has this day accepted the proposal of Captain Wentworth, and they wish you to share in their happiness."" - pp 398-399
But, hey!, they're still both virgins - if they were the hope of a species the species wd be long extinct.
"Suddenly, Anne broke away abruptly from the kiss; she was breathing heavily. When she had regained her breath, she said, "It is only a few more weeks, Frederick. I wish our first time to be perfect—with no regrets."" - p 413
How she's planning to make it "perfect" is beyind me - does she even know what an orgasm is?! & check out what was considered to be child-bearing age at the time:
""Frederick, I want children. Do you not want children, too? I am near eight and twenty; another year and I may not be able to bear a child!" Tears began to stream down her face again." - p 420
Shit, at the rate they're going, they won't even be able to find her vagina.
In general Jeffers tries to stick to historically correct detail. There is one strange touch, chapter 19 begins w/ a poem from a 20th century poet:
"Then you rose into my life
Like a promised sunrise.
Brightening my days with the light in your eyes.
I've never been so strong,
Now I'm where I belong.
—Maya Angelou, "Where We Belong: A Duet"" - p 428
Well, Angelou may be a 20th century poet but her poetry is more 19th century: the 2nd & 3rd lines rhyme, the 4th & 5th lines rhyme. No surprises there.
But what about the honeymoon, the wedding night? Will that have any surprises?
""I will be tender this evening."
"She paused before answering. "I know. —I am not afraid."
""Promise me," he began again. "Promise me if you are uncomfortable in any way you will tell me. I will not have you lie there and be only a vessel for my pleasure. That is not what love is." He kissed the top of her head. "I assume you had no one to speak about physical love?"
""I did—I did speak to your sister. Truthfully, much of what she said was shocking, but I am glad Sophia was so direct." She blushed at speaking so openly with him." - pp 453-454
They're hrs away from fucking for the 1st time & she's blushing about referring to physically intimate matters in an extremely oblique way. Did people like her ever really exist? Thank the holy ceiling light I was born in the mid-20th century. The 1st time I fucked was awkward but I was practically a natural-born porn star in contrast to these people. & Jeffers prolongs the frustration even more b/c Captain Wentworth is called back into the Navy so he & Anne get to spend their honeymoon in a war ship bound for fighting.
"Frederick spoke with regret. "I am sorry, Anne. You deserve a wedding trip to the Continent, instead of a few nights at a country inn before I drag you off to a crowded ship—and a war."" - p 455
Now if Jeffers really wanted to push the overkill button, when Wentworth gets wounded his balls wd be blown off. Thankfully, she didn't go that far. Jeffers did, however, throw in some author's touchs that weren't so dramatic.
"Despite having never once prepared her own meal, Anne became quite adept at imporvisation. Used to fending for himself, Frederick assisted her. Some of their fondest moments resulted from disastrous attempts in the kitchen. They would laugh hysterically in each other's arms, settle for bread and tea, and spend the night in passionate lovemaking." - p 476
For the full review, go here: https://www.goodreads.com/story/show/...
Regina Jeffers's Captain Wentworth's Persuasion
by tENTATIVELY, a cONVENIENCE - June 19-28, 2021
For the full review, go here: https://www.goodreads.com/story/show/...
"JANE AUSTEN'S Classic Retold Through His Eyes", the cover tells us. I only have 3 Austen novels in my personal library: Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, & Emma so I reckon those are the 3 I read oh-so-long ago, say 49 yrs ago, when I 'discovered' Austen in my fledgling attempts to find English lit to read that I might not've been exposed to in school. I liked Austen, I thought she was a good social observer w/ a wry wit - presumably much like the main woman protagonist of her Persuasion, Anne Elliot. I picked up this bk b/c I found it interesting that someone wd take a novel & rewrite it from the perspective of a different character. I even went to the 'extreme' of watching a BBC version of Persuasion to get a feel for how the original novel's been treated. I didn't expect Captain Wentworth's Persuasion to be 'great' literature &, IMO, it isn't. Still, the author took the trouble to write it & that's worth something to me - I reckon she's seriously passionate about the material. For the most part, Captain Wentworth's Persuasion is a romance novel - I didn't really expect that. As such, it wasn't for me & I'm not likely to recommend it to anyone I know. My copy is also in large print, I didn't mind that, it's nice to give my eyes a break, to have them not squinting at tiny 8 point footnotes. This was one of the 8 bks that I took on yrs ago to read that just dragged on & on for me. Hallelujah that I finally finished it.
An opening paragraph says:
"This optimized ReadHowYouWant edition contains the complete, unabridged text of the original publisher's edition. Other aspects of the book may vary from the original edition."
In other words, the bk's been "Set in 16 pt. Verdana". Apparently ReadHowYouWant editions enable people to have bks republished "formatted and typeset to make reading easier". Interesting.
Even tho I haven't read Persuasion & have only seen the movie, I deduce that Jeffers has added to the original story. There's an intercutting between Wentworth & Elliot being married & the original story of things leading up to that marriage.
"Captain Frederick Wentworth recognized the danger of pursuing the retreating French sloop, but he also recognized the need to keep the French from reaching reinforcements and from taking English secrets straight back to Bonaparte. He made the decision to take the French vessel despite the fact that his wife traveled aboard The Resolve with him." - p 1
"Now, Anne gazed at her husband as he ordered her below deck, trying to protect her from the worst of the battle." - p 2
Those were the days, eh?, when a naval captain might take his wife w/ him on his warship when a war was on? But, like I said, this is a ROMANCE NOVEL.
"He lived for the adventure of the sea, but he was her Frederick, a practical man who had accomplished his dreams by organizing the chaos of his mind. She touched the weathered lines of his face with her fingertips before lightly brushing his lips with hers.
""You will be safe, my Love," he said as he cupped her chin in the palm of one large hand.
""Of course, I am safe," Anne insisted. You are the captain of The Resolve; we are all safe under your command." She took his hand in hers, kissing the palm before releasing him. "Now do what you must do, Frederick. I will be well." With that, she left him. She shivered when she saw him load his gun, knowing the strong possibility of hand-to-hand combat when the British boarded the sloop." - pp 2-3
I never thought of Austen as writing romance novels but after reading this it's easier for me to perceive her in that way. Nonetheless, Jeffers pushes the romance angle further in a way that doesn't seem in keeping w/ Austen's style.
"Frederick swallowed hard, forcing his desire for her away. When she became his, it would be through an honest proposal. His head made the decision, but his body fought him. He wanted Anne—wanted her completely—yet, he would not act on his desire; he would do the honorable thing." - p 28
In other words, he wants to fuck her brains out. But such straightforward satisfaction is neither the way of the world or the way of Austen's original of of Jeffers'.
""Last Russell was unable to convince Sir Walter? Did your friend object to our union also? It is of no consequence. We will continue without their support."
""I cannot," she said again, but this time he knew the words spelled doom.
""You cannot what, Anne?" he demanded.
"Tears sprang to her eyes as she lifted her face to meet his gaze. "I cannot ... I cannot marry you, Frederick." One lone tear trickled down her face." - p 51
Well how about a quickie for the road then?
""Anne?" The soft pleading of his voice brought her attention back to his face. Under the influence of the strong drug, Frederick could not work out how to open is eyes. "Anne," he murmured again. Clouded by the laudanum, Frederick's mind tried to concentrate for more than a few minutes at a time; he found himself drifting back into sleep, into nightmares. He dreamed of losing her—his Anne —and now he need to know she was here with him—in this room—guaranteeing the nightmares no longer plagued him." - p 80
Laudanum? Remember that? Opiated alcohol? It usta be all the rage. Heck, that's so passé in an era of oxycodone. & let's not forget SSRIs & Ritalin & Adderall & all the rest.
Anne reads poetry. Each chapter of Captain Wentworth's Persuasion begins w/ poetry, sometimes by Byron, including the 1st 2 chapters.
"When we two parted
In silence and tears,
Half broken-hearted
To sever for years,
Pale grew thy cheel and cold,
Colder they kiss;
Truly that hour foretold
Sorrow to this.
- Lord Byron, "When we Two Parted"
""So beautiful." The words brought Anne's attention to the figure reclining lazily against the pillows. She sat reading a book of poetry as she tended his bedside. "Did you know I fell in love with you the first time I saw you in the mercantile? Your face—those delicately molded features and dark eyes—captivated me immediately. Somehow, I felt we understood each other. Odd, is it not?"" - p 111
Beware of that Byron guy. Did you know that his personal physician, Polidori, wrote a vampire novel inspired by Byron as a sexual predator? But wd Byron have been interested in Anne?
"Frederick grew less fearful of being in the same room with her. He treated Anne as everyone else did; she was a nonentity—she did not exist other than being part of the room decoration. In this manner, he could deal with her presence. Yet, as often as he tried to not let himself think of her, he foolishly succumbed nevertheless. It irritated him to see her treated as an afterthought in the minds of her family." - p 123
I don't think Jeffers exactly intended to write as if she were Austen, after all there's some content that wdn't've made it into Austen. I do think Jeffers wrote out of respect & love for Austen. Here're some sections that are on the obviously-not-Austen end of things:
"He pushed against the opening, forcing the skin together and squeezed the pus from around the stitches while Frederick gritted his teeth. "I will clean this with soap and water when we are finished. A tincture should heal it up soon enough. We will use leeches if we need to—if circulation becomes a problem." - p 155
""Lock the door, my Love, and come lie next to me."
"His words sent a shiver of excitement down her back. She turned to face him, worry if her eyes. "Frederick, we cannot. It is too soon.""
[..]
""Only your chemise, Anne." She reached back to undo the buttons of her gown, never taking her eyes from him. She let it drop from her shoulders to the floor before stepping out of it. Then she slipped under the blanket and turned into his embrace." - pp 158-159
Maybe this is tantric sex. There's plenty of curtailed ardor going on.
""Ctach me!" Louisa demanded as usual, once she climbed to the top of the stile. He did so, but tried to set her some distance away from him when her feet touched the ground again. She purposely clung to his lapels longer than necessary, and he gently removed her hands before offering her his arm. Before, he had welcomed her interest, but now he saw how he must find a way to curtail her ardor." - p 174
All I can say is that this Wentworth character must not be very horny.
"Contentment spread through him as he thought of finally having his own home—his own wife—his own children. Where would Anne fit into that picture? He never imagined anyone but her in his bed—at his side when he entered a room—taking meals at his table. Even after eight years only she stirred his soul." - p 192
Do you mean to tell me that no other woman ever brought his 3rd leg to attn?! He shd check whether he got killed in one of those wars he fought.
Now you might think that these characters are humble - but in the background there're always those people who actually do the work.
""So you went to Lyme?" Henrietta asked as she reached for one of the apple tarts brought in by a servant." - p 196
The novel goes backwards & forwards in time & I've deluberately left that intercutting w/o explanation until now.
"Anne pulled herself upright. "I preach patience and resignation, Captain, because I, too, suffered the pains of lost love, and I wish most desperately that someone had offered me such advice."
"Had her heard her correctly? Frederick felt his heart would break; his departure had hurt Anne as much as it had hurt him. He knew she spoke of their love, for, without a doubt, Anne had once loved him." - p 217
Now comes the big dramatic moment, a turning point. If I had a copy of the original handy I'd compare the 2 passages. But I don't.
"He put out his hands; she was to precipitate him by a half second. Lousia's body floating through the air in slow motion; her shirt tail and cloak spread out like angel wings. Frederick saw the horror overtake her face when she realized he could not catch her, and her body braced for the impact. The thudding sound reverberated as she fell on the pavement on the Lower Cobb and was taken up lifeless." - p 234
Well, let's not exaggerate, she wasn't exactly "lifeless".
Maybe the following fetishistic behavior explains Wentworth's curious lack of sex drive.
"In an impetuous move, he kissed the corner of the folded page before he sealed it with wax. His kiss would touch her fingertips as she unfolded the paper to read his message. Closing his eyes, he envisioned his lips caressing Anne's fingertips in a playful seduction. It was all he could do not to groan as the vision played across his mind." - pp 254-255
Readers of the original novel might remember that Frederick asked Anne to marry him when she was young & her family refused to permit it. Frederick went away heartbroken & joined that navy. 8 yrs later he was still in love w/ Anne but felt hopeless & uncertain about her affections.
""Why not renew your proposal now? Do you believe Miss Anne is indifferent to you?" Edward leaned back in his chair. He knew to let Frederick tell his story at his own pace.
""I created a quagmire. When I first went to Uppercross, I purposely entertained the attention of Miss Musgrove. I needed Anne to see how others wanted me, even though she did not. I played games for which I now must pay. Lately, I decided I still wanted Anne, but I knew I had to distance myself from Louisa Musgrove, before I could plead my case with Miss Anne."" - p 278
A more diabolical novelist might've had Wentworth deliberately missing catching Louisa in the hope that she wd die. This is a more civil novel. There are schemers afoot - but not our 2 heros.
""A very fine man indeed!" said Lady Dalrymple. "More air than one often sees in Bath. —Irish, I daresay. Do you know him?"
""No, I just know his name. A bowing acquaintance. Wentworth—Captain Wentworth of the Navy. His sister married my tenant in Somersetshire—Admiral Croft, who rents my Kellynch."
"Frederick's body turned first hot with anger and then cold with humiliation. Sir Walter did not even do him the courtesy of remembering him, the man who had asked for his daughter's hand." - p 317
& hence there's class struggle. Maybe the original was a precursor to D. H. Lawrence's Lady Chatterly's Lover. At any rate, romance is never far behind.
"Anne snaked her arms around his neck, lacing her fingers through his hair. "I believe I have heard this story before." She giggled as he kissed the sensitive spot between her neck and shoulder. "But," she gasped as his lips traced a line from her ear to the base of her neck, "I believe—it needs—retelling."" - pp 326-327
But the tantric postponement of satisfaction just drones on & on..
"Out of the corner of his eye, Frederick noted how outwardly composed Anne appeared, and he wondered how he must look to the others. The moment she walked into the room, he felt himself plunged at once into all the agitations which he had merely anticipated tasting a little before the morning closed." - p 360
& after the not-particularly-exquisite prolongation, on p 372, we finally get there..
""Please say that I am not too late."
"Anne released her hand from his, but she did so to trace the outline of his lips. "Yours is the face I see every time I close my eyes. It has been so for eight years—nothing you could say or do would ever change that."" - p 372
How about 'I contracted syphilis & gonorrhea from fucking my cabin boy in the Navy'?
But, no, Wentworth doesn't say that so everything's OK.. except that the frustration just rolls on & on, the society of the time is just too uptight. The endless decorum.
""This way, Captain." Anne motioned to a table with port, wine, lemonade, and champagne. Frederick followed her there; it was the closest he would come to being alone with her for the next few hours. "Champagne, Captain?" she said as she handed him a glass and took one for herself. "To us," Anne mouthed the words." - p 390
&, yes, goshdarnitalltoheck&tarnation&backagain, Anne's father finally OKs the marriage between the 2 protagonists, despite the class difference. & it only took 398 (large print) pages to get there. Was it worth the wait? Maybe for the ficitonal characters, I have my doubts about this particular reader.
""My friends and family," he began in his most pretentious tone, "it is with pleasure that I announce that our modest card party has become a momentous occasion. My daughter Anne has this day accepted the proposal of Captain Wentworth, and they wish you to share in their happiness."" - pp 398-399
But, hey!, they're still both virgins - if they were the hope of a species the species wd be long extinct.
"Suddenly, Anne broke away abruptly from the kiss; she was breathing heavily. When she had regained her breath, she said, "It is only a few more weeks, Frederick. I wish our first time to be perfect—with no regrets."" - p 413
How she's planning to make it "perfect" is beyind me - does she even know what an orgasm is?! & check out what was considered to be child-bearing age at the time:
""Frederick, I want children. Do you not want children, too? I am near eight and twenty; another year and I may not be able to bear a child!" Tears began to stream down her face again." - p 420
Shit, at the rate they're going, they won't even be able to find her vagina.
In general Jeffers tries to stick to historically correct detail. There is one strange touch, chapter 19 begins w/ a poem from a 20th century poet:
"Then you rose into my life
Like a promised sunrise.
Brightening my days with the light in your eyes.
I've never been so strong,
Now I'm where I belong.
—Maya Angelou, "Where We Belong: A Duet"" - p 428
Well, Angelou may be a 20th century poet but her poetry is more 19th century: the 2nd & 3rd lines rhyme, the 4th & 5th lines rhyme. No surprises there.
But what about the honeymoon, the wedding night? Will that have any surprises?
""I will be tender this evening."
"She paused before answering. "I know. —I am not afraid."
""Promise me," he began again. "Promise me if you are uncomfortable in any way you will tell me. I will not have you lie there and be only a vessel for my pleasure. That is not what love is." He kissed the top of her head. "I assume you had no one to speak about physical love?"
""I did—I did speak to your sister. Truthfully, much of what she said was shocking, but I am glad Sophia was so direct." She blushed at speaking so openly with him." - pp 453-454
They're hrs away from fucking for the 1st time & she's blushing about referring to physically intimate matters in an extremely oblique way. Did people like her ever really exist? Thank the holy ceiling light I was born in the mid-20th century. The 1st time I fucked was awkward but I was practically a natural-born porn star in contrast to these people. & Jeffers prolongs the frustration even more b/c Captain Wentworth is called back into the Navy so he & Anne get to spend their honeymoon in a war ship bound for fighting.
"Frederick spoke with regret. "I am sorry, Anne. You deserve a wedding trip to the Continent, instead of a few nights at a country inn before I drag you off to a crowded ship—and a war."" - p 455
Now if Jeffers really wanted to push the overkill button, when Wentworth gets wounded his balls wd be blown off. Thankfully, she didn't go that far. Jeffers did, however, throw in some author's touchs that weren't so dramatic.
"Despite having never once prepared her own meal, Anne became quite adept at imporvisation. Used to fending for himself, Frederick assisted her. Some of their fondest moments resulted from disastrous attempts in the kitchen. They would laugh hysterically in each other's arms, settle for bread and tea, and spend the night in passionate lovemaking." - p 476
For the full review, go here: https://www.goodreads.com/story/show/...
August 23, 2017
Each lover has a theory of his own about the difference between thee ache of being with his love, and being alone. (W.H. Auden, “Alone” – Regina Jeffers uses poems or parts of poems in every chapter.)
I have to admit that I was really eager to read Persuasion from Captain Wentworth’s perspective because after reading Darcy’s P&P and Edmund Bertram’s MP, I could not wait until reading lovely Frederick’s account of the story: when he decided that Anne was his soul mate after arriving at Kellynch, his thought about the Miss Musgroves or Anne´s family, his almost extreme jealousy, etc.
From my point of view Regina Jeffers has recreated his thought well enough. However, the part that I have enjoyed more is what is not told by Jane Austen in Persuasion: what happens after the engagement?
Could you imagine Anne standing up to his father and Lady Russell? Could you imagine Anne being a bit cheeky when talking about Mrs Benwick with Frederick? Could you imagine Anne being secretive? Maybe you could but I highly recommend reading how Regina Jeffers has described her and how her personality glows when she is with her love, Frederick.
How do you think Anne deals with the life in a ship during war time? What happens if she almost loses his husband? What happens when she is facing a better life than she ever expected?
I like the way Anne is developed and obviously I enjoy the adoring Captain Wentworth and his undying love for Anne.
As you could have realised my favourite part is the sequel to Persuasion, this sequel is intertwined with the story by Jane Austen, Regina Jeffers starts on the same point as the original but mixes that story with the sequel. It is a good idea as Wentworth is thinking about his life with Anne while he is severely wounded.
I have read several JAFF books by Regina Jeffers and I highly recommend them, have a look on Amazon for instance and check the reviews, I will post reviews of her books as soon as I can. However, I have already reviewed one of her books that I really liked: Mr. Darcy’s Fault. I have read a few that I would like to reread but I have also taken advantage of her amazing sale for Mother’s Day and I bought three more that I did not have!
I have to admit that I was really eager to read Persuasion from Captain Wentworth’s perspective because after reading Darcy’s P&P and Edmund Bertram’s MP, I could not wait until reading lovely Frederick’s account of the story: when he decided that Anne was his soul mate after arriving at Kellynch, his thought about the Miss Musgroves or Anne´s family, his almost extreme jealousy, etc.
From my point of view Regina Jeffers has recreated his thought well enough. However, the part that I have enjoyed more is what is not told by Jane Austen in Persuasion: what happens after the engagement?
Could you imagine Anne standing up to his father and Lady Russell? Could you imagine Anne being a bit cheeky when talking about Mrs Benwick with Frederick? Could you imagine Anne being secretive? Maybe you could but I highly recommend reading how Regina Jeffers has described her and how her personality glows when she is with her love, Frederick.
How do you think Anne deals with the life in a ship during war time? What happens if she almost loses his husband? What happens when she is facing a better life than she ever expected?
I like the way Anne is developed and obviously I enjoy the adoring Captain Wentworth and his undying love for Anne.
As you could have realised my favourite part is the sequel to Persuasion, this sequel is intertwined with the story by Jane Austen, Regina Jeffers starts on the same point as the original but mixes that story with the sequel. It is a good idea as Wentworth is thinking about his life with Anne while he is severely wounded.
I have read several JAFF books by Regina Jeffers and I highly recommend them, have a look on Amazon for instance and check the reviews, I will post reviews of her books as soon as I can. However, I have already reviewed one of her books that I really liked: Mr. Darcy’s Fault. I have read a few that I would like to reread but I have also taken advantage of her amazing sale for Mother’s Day and I bought three more that I did not have!
August 15, 2012
Why oh why oh why do I do these things to myself???
Jane Austen's Persuasion is one of my very favourite novels. I adore it. I think Captain Wentworth's letter to Anne Elliot is, perhaps, the most romantic passage in the Western Canon. Plus, I cannot separate the text from the 1995 film adaptation (that's the *brilliant* version with Ciaran Hinds, not the Run Lola Run attempt from a few years ago on the BBC).
I knew when I bought this attempted re-write of Persuasion that it would be a pale, pale shadow of the original; I knew it would frustrate me with its lack of Austen-esque wit; I knew it would make me gnash my teeth. And, yet, I still put down the $20 and walked away with it in my bag... and then I didn't read it for over a year. Last week, coming down from the brilliance of Tigana, I thought I would try something that was obviously a bit silly.
I was being stupid.
The only redeeming features in Jeffers' book are the lines taken directly from Austen. The rest is drivel. An entire industry seems to have been made by re-doing Jane's novels (a la Pride and Prejudice and Zombies), or writing supposed sequels (a la Berdoll's The Bar Sinister), but this one beats them all. It hurt my soul. I only finished it to increase my (still pathetically small by comparison) tally of pages for The End of the World Reading Challenge. I immediately then began to re-read The Shadow of the Wind as a sort of literary exorcism.
Do yourself a favour: go re-read the REAL Austen version of Persuasion and then, if you're feeling particularly indulgent, go watch Ciaran Hinds as Captain Wentworth. The umbrella scene in the Bath candy shop is worth its weight in gold.
Lesson of the summer: don't read crap sequels to books I love. It can only be a dampening experience... rather like my last visit to Bath in 2007 when it never stopped raining. And there was no real Captain Wentworth with an umbrella. Shame.
Jane Austen's Persuasion is one of my very favourite novels. I adore it. I think Captain Wentworth's letter to Anne Elliot is, perhaps, the most romantic passage in the Western Canon. Plus, I cannot separate the text from the 1995 film adaptation (that's the *brilliant* version with Ciaran Hinds, not the Run Lola Run attempt from a few years ago on the BBC).
I knew when I bought this attempted re-write of Persuasion that it would be a pale, pale shadow of the original; I knew it would frustrate me with its lack of Austen-esque wit; I knew it would make me gnash my teeth. And, yet, I still put down the $20 and walked away with it in my bag... and then I didn't read it for over a year. Last week, coming down from the brilliance of Tigana, I thought I would try something that was obviously a bit silly.
I was being stupid.
The only redeeming features in Jeffers' book are the lines taken directly from Austen. The rest is drivel. An entire industry seems to have been made by re-doing Jane's novels (a la Pride and Prejudice and Zombies), or writing supposed sequels (a la Berdoll's The Bar Sinister), but this one beats them all. It hurt my soul. I only finished it to increase my (still pathetically small by comparison) tally of pages for The End of the World Reading Challenge. I immediately then began to re-read The Shadow of the Wind as a sort of literary exorcism.
Do yourself a favour: go re-read the REAL Austen version of Persuasion and then, if you're feeling particularly indulgent, go watch Ciaran Hinds as Captain Wentworth. The umbrella scene in the Bath candy shop is worth its weight in gold.
Lesson of the summer: don't read crap sequels to books I love. It can only be a dampening experience... rather like my last visit to Bath in 2007 when it never stopped raining. And there was no real Captain Wentworth with an umbrella. Shame.
May 31, 2010
Overall 3.5 stars
I did enjoy this book a lot. I really liked the interweaving of the scenes from the present, past and future. It really proved that their romance stood the test of time.
I also loved that Jeffer's included the 'original ending' penned by JA as a dream of Wentworths! (These pages were thought to be too tame an ending by JA and thus the ending as we read now. But these original pages can be read here.
The dialog towards the end (after JA's original story ended) became much more modern especially in Anne. She threw out lines to Frederick like "admit it, you were jealous" and "you are such a flirt" which brought me out of the story a little.
By the end though I started to lose patience. I guess I just wanted the book to END. It was like Jeffers didn't think Persuasion had a romantic enough ending and thus felt the need to throw in every closure imaginable. Anne and Wentworth were both able to tell off those who ever upset them, achieve recognition, and outshine their relations. Not to mention provide the reader with every hint and outright declaration for their future. She doesn't leave much to the readers imagination. Also, I didn't think Frederick's new governmental 'employment' really fit his character or their lives well. Nor did I like the children's names Romola and Robert.
Still it was an enjoyable read, and a good addition to the insane number of JA related books coming out these days and one worth reading. (Although if I ever read it again I will probably stop about 80 pages from the end.)
I did enjoy this book a lot. I really liked the interweaving of the scenes from the present, past and future. It really proved that their romance stood the test of time.
I also loved that Jeffer's included the 'original ending' penned by JA as a dream of Wentworths! (These pages were thought to be too tame an ending by JA and thus the ending as we read now. But these original pages can be read here.
The dialog towards the end (after JA's original story ended) became much more modern especially in Anne. She threw out lines to Frederick like "admit it, you were jealous" and "you are such a flirt" which brought me out of the story a little.
By the end though I started to lose patience. I guess I just wanted the book to END. It was like Jeffers didn't think Persuasion had a romantic enough ending and thus felt the need to throw in every closure imaginable. Anne and Wentworth were both able to tell off those who ever upset them, achieve recognition, and outshine their relations. Not to mention provide the reader with every hint and outright declaration for their future. She doesn't leave much to the readers imagination. Also, I didn't think Frederick's new governmental 'employment' really fit his character or their lives well. Nor did I like the children's names Romola and Robert.
Still it was an enjoyable read, and a good addition to the insane number of JA related books coming out these days and one worth reading. (Although if I ever read it again I will probably stop about 80 pages from the end.)
August 15, 2011
While Persuasion is one of my favorite Austen novels, it's been generally neglected in both the Austen fan fiction worlds and the published "sequels." While parts of this retelling are highly interesting, I felt that both Wentworth and Anne were slightly off, at least as far as their characters were portrayed in Austen (and, I admit, I have the Ciaran Hinds - Amanda Root movie adaptation in my mind as I read this). I also couldn't stand Wentworth's constant use of the endearment "Sweetling," which seemed far out of character.
February 4, 2014
It started off okay. The author took some liberties with dialog. She changed and added to some of the conversations that happened in Persuasion. But I could live with that.
My big problems came when the principal action of Persuasion ended and this book kept going. It got ridiculous. It turned into a horribly bad romance novel. The characters stopped acting liked themselves. Ann had a yelling match with her father and Lady Russell. She threatened to get pregnant before the wedding unless they used their pull to speed up the wedding. Just no.
My big problems came when the principal action of Persuasion ended and this book kept going. It got ridiculous. It turned into a horribly bad romance novel. The characters stopped acting liked themselves. Ann had a yelling match with her father and Lady Russell. She threatened to get pregnant before the wedding unless they used their pull to speed up the wedding. Just no.
August 5, 2021
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
This is one of those stories I read before I retired and began reviewing every book I read. I do want to reread all those stories which I did not review but as time has slipped by and I haven't done so, I just want to mark all those stories as "read" so I have a record of the true number of books in the JAFF sub-genre I have read. I am using the average rating at this time as I do not remember how I rated this story back when I read it. If I ever get around to rereading it I will look at my rating to make sure it is true to my opinion. It was published in 2010 so that is most likely when I read it.
This is one of those stories I read before I retired and began reviewing every book I read. I do want to reread all those stories which I did not review but as time has slipped by and I haven't done so, I just want to mark all those stories as "read" so I have a record of the true number of books in the JAFF sub-genre I have read. I am using the average rating at this time as I do not remember how I rated this story back when I read it. If I ever get around to rereading it I will look at my rating to make sure it is true to my opinion. It was published in 2010 so that is most likely when I read it.
January 25, 2025
The perfect companion on my journey throughout England including Bath. Many of our stops corresponded with a quote or scene that related perfectly to my surroundings. I love how this author weaved the story we all know so completely with carefully researched possible events for future scenes. Loved it again!
October 7, 2017
Different viewpoint of Jane Austen’s Persuasionwith lots more detail than I wanted.
June 10, 2021
Enjoyable
I thoroughly enjoyed this Persuasion adaptation. It began when Anne and Frederick first met, then to their reconciliation 8 years later, then to their marriage and first year of marriage. I really enjoyed the story after they married and had a HEA. If you are a fan of Jane Austen, and a good love story, you will enjoy this book!
I thoroughly enjoyed this Persuasion adaptation. It began when Anne and Frederick first met, then to their reconciliation 8 years later, then to their marriage and first year of marriage. I really enjoyed the story after they married and had a HEA. If you are a fan of Jane Austen, and a good love story, you will enjoy this book!
April 29, 2010
Originally published as Wayward Love: Captain Frederick Wentworth's Story in 2009, Captain Wentworth's Persuasion by Regina Jeffers is an in-depth and comprehensive account of Persuasion retold through the eyes of Captain Wentworth. This novel is uniquely and beautifully rendered through a series of flashbacks that portray what happened in Jane Austen's Persuasion as well as depict scenes we did not see happen, such as Anne and Wentworth's courtship and first meeting. Furthermore, Ms. Jeffers takes us beyond the time-line of Persuasion by closing her novel well after Anne and Wentworth's marriage, providing the reader with a glimpse of their happy and blissful life together.
In this romantic and tender retelling Ms. Jeffers aptly illustrates many themes from Persuasion such as social class, family, and persuasion; the theme she primarily focuses on is love and marrying for love. Reading this novel is an engaging and emotional journey where the readers will witness all the sorrowful and joyful moments of Anne and Wentworth's relationship. I was able to feel just how ardently Captain Wentworth loved Anne and observe the shift of his emotions as he went from bitter and proud, to aware and determined, to tortured and jealous.
I found Captain Wentworth's Persuasion to be a delightful and endearing novel. I loved how all the characters were accurately and reverently portrayed; Mary Musgrove still had her imaginary complaints, Sir Walter was as self-involved and pompous as ever, etc. In addition, I took pleasure in Ms. Jeffers's fleshed-out depiction of Captain Wentworth's brother, Edward. and I loved seeing the close and companionable relationship between the two of them. One of my favorite aspects of this novel is how Ms. Jeffers cleverly and capably included Jane Austen's canceled chapter of Persuasion as well as her rewritten ending. Since the story was told through a series of flashbacks the canceled chapter was inserted as one of Captain Wentworth's dreams. In this sequence, Ms. Jeffers displays her skillfulness as a writer and her excellent knowledge of Jane Austen.
Another aspect I loved was how Ms. Jeffers included various poem excerpts as epigraphs for each chapter. I took pleasure in seeing these excerpts mirror and evoke the sentiments and emotions of the chapter that followed. All Ms. Jeffers's epigraphs were well-chosen, moving, and a lovely enhancement to the story. One of my favorite epigraphs was “When We Two Parted” by Lord Byron which I found very apropos for Anne and Wentworth.
While it is true that all our beloved and favorite characters were accurately rendered in this novel, there was one scene that made me raise my eyebrows a little. The scene is one where Anne boldly and defiantly asserts herself to her father and Lady Russell. Although I can see Anne growing in confidence and developing a backbone, it seemed like too sudden a change of character in this instance.
Having finally read one of Regina Jeffers's Austenesque novels, I can enthusiastically and emphatically say it will not be my last! I look forward to exploring the other novels this author has penned since I have greatly enjoyed her vivid and romantic story-telling and admirable renderings of Austen's characters. This novel is a fantastic choice for fans of Persuasion and Captain Wentworth and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a very tender and romantic Austen retelling to enjoy!
Austenesque Reviews
In this romantic and tender retelling Ms. Jeffers aptly illustrates many themes from Persuasion such as social class, family, and persuasion; the theme she primarily focuses on is love and marrying for love. Reading this novel is an engaging and emotional journey where the readers will witness all the sorrowful and joyful moments of Anne and Wentworth's relationship. I was able to feel just how ardently Captain Wentworth loved Anne and observe the shift of his emotions as he went from bitter and proud, to aware and determined, to tortured and jealous.
I found Captain Wentworth's Persuasion to be a delightful and endearing novel. I loved how all the characters were accurately and reverently portrayed; Mary Musgrove still had her imaginary complaints, Sir Walter was as self-involved and pompous as ever, etc. In addition, I took pleasure in Ms. Jeffers's fleshed-out depiction of Captain Wentworth's brother, Edward. and I loved seeing the close and companionable relationship between the two of them. One of my favorite aspects of this novel is how Ms. Jeffers cleverly and capably included Jane Austen's canceled chapter of Persuasion as well as her rewritten ending. Since the story was told through a series of flashbacks the canceled chapter was inserted as one of Captain Wentworth's dreams. In this sequence, Ms. Jeffers displays her skillfulness as a writer and her excellent knowledge of Jane Austen.
Another aspect I loved was how Ms. Jeffers included various poem excerpts as epigraphs for each chapter. I took pleasure in seeing these excerpts mirror and evoke the sentiments and emotions of the chapter that followed. All Ms. Jeffers's epigraphs were well-chosen, moving, and a lovely enhancement to the story. One of my favorite epigraphs was “When We Two Parted” by Lord Byron which I found very apropos for Anne and Wentworth.
While it is true that all our beloved and favorite characters were accurately rendered in this novel, there was one scene that made me raise my eyebrows a little. The scene is one where Anne boldly and defiantly asserts herself to her father and Lady Russell. Although I can see Anne growing in confidence and developing a backbone, it seemed like too sudden a change of character in this instance.
Having finally read one of Regina Jeffers's Austenesque novels, I can enthusiastically and emphatically say it will not be my last! I look forward to exploring the other novels this author has penned since I have greatly enjoyed her vivid and romantic story-telling and admirable renderings of Austen's characters. This novel is a fantastic choice for fans of Persuasion and Captain Wentworth and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a very tender and romantic Austen retelling to enjoy!
Austenesque Reviews
Read
November 4, 2017When I read Persuasion last year, it immediately became my favorite Jane Austen novel, and of course, it was impossible not to fall in love with Captain Wentworth. Austen’s novel of reversed fortunes and second chances is told from the point of view of Anne Elliot, who is persuaded to break her engagement to Frederick Wentworth, a man with no connections, title, or fortune. Eight years later, Anne’s family is having financial troubles, Frederick comes back a rich man from his time at sea, and they get swept up in the same social circle when Frederick’s sister and brother-in-law rent Anne’s family home. It seems to Anne that Frederick could never forgive her, especially when he shows interest in Louisa Musgrove, the sister of Anne’s brother-in-law.
What’s missing from Austen’s novel is Frederick and Anne’s early relationship, and Frederick’s thoughts on all that transpires. Regina Jeffers tells Frederick’s side of the story in Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion, a novel I savored because there are so few re-tellings of Persuasion. Jeffers opens the novel with Frederick and Anne together on his ship, and after a skirmish that leaves Frederick wounded, the story of their relationship from their first meeting through the events that transpire in Austen’s original work is told through flashbacks. Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion also shows Frederick and Anne after the end of Austen’s novel, giving us a glimpse of their life together.
Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion was enjoyable because it let me spend more time with my favorite characters. Jeffers stays true to the events of Persuasion in Frederick’s flashbacks but adds a new dimension to the story by imagining it from Frederick’s point of view. His deep devotion to Anne and his hurt at their broken engagement explains his behavior toward Anne when they meet again. Although Jeffers doesn’t match Austen’s wit and humor, there are some amusing moments, and of course, more romance than in the original. I liked that Jeffers didn’t just retell Persuasion but wrote about Frederick and Anne before and after, and I loved reading about Frederick’s military adventures, how he worked hard to make a name for himself, his devotion to his crew, and his inability to let go of the woman he loved despite the people and the years that came between them. If you’re like me and love the characters and stories created by Austen, as well as all the various takes on her novels, you’ll want to give Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion a try.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
What’s missing from Austen’s novel is Frederick and Anne’s early relationship, and Frederick’s thoughts on all that transpires. Regina Jeffers tells Frederick’s side of the story in Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion, a novel I savored because there are so few re-tellings of Persuasion. Jeffers opens the novel with Frederick and Anne together on his ship, and after a skirmish that leaves Frederick wounded, the story of their relationship from their first meeting through the events that transpire in Austen’s original work is told through flashbacks. Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion also shows Frederick and Anne after the end of Austen’s novel, giving us a glimpse of their life together.
Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion was enjoyable because it let me spend more time with my favorite characters. Jeffers stays true to the events of Persuasion in Frederick’s flashbacks but adds a new dimension to the story by imagining it from Frederick’s point of view. His deep devotion to Anne and his hurt at their broken engagement explains his behavior toward Anne when they meet again. Although Jeffers doesn’t match Austen’s wit and humor, there are some amusing moments, and of course, more romance than in the original. I liked that Jeffers didn’t just retell Persuasion but wrote about Frederick and Anne before and after, and I loved reading about Frederick’s military adventures, how he worked hard to make a name for himself, his devotion to his crew, and his inability to let go of the woman he loved despite the people and the years that came between them. If you’re like me and love the characters and stories created by Austen, as well as all the various takes on her novels, you’ll want to give Captain Wentworth’s Persuasion a try.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
February 8, 2018
To read Persuasion from Captain Wentworth's POV would be amazing, but then to take the story of Frederick and Anne into the future is even more marvelous!! Frederick reviews his whole relationship with Anne via flashbacks, and then we move forward with the couple as Napoleon once again threatens England with war. Once Napoleon is taken care of for good, the Wentworths continue in their happily-married life which is not without occasional adventure!
This book was delightful from the very first scene which places us in a battle on the high seas as Frederick and his crew pursue a French ship; Anne remains hidden during the battle to keep her safe. And from there the flashbacks begin. We see their first meeting, their almost instantaneous love for one another, their relationship as it moves toward his proposal, the meeting with Sir Walter (which obviously does not go well), and Frederick's anger at Anne when she lets him go, "for his own good."
He thinks he truly hates Anne when he returns to Somerset eight years later, and he does what he can to show her his dislike. He is petty at times--and knows it--but he wants Anne to see what she gave up. His flirtations with Louisa Musgrove are all about showing Anne that he wants a different type of woman, one who knows her own mind. Yet he also pities Anne in her subservient position at Uppercross Cottage with her sister Mary's selfish ways. And he admires Anne as she cares so compassionately for her nephews.
Through the events of Lyme, Frederick finally realizes that Anne is the only woman for him, but he seems to be committed to Louisa after her injury. But after all is sorted, Frederick follows Anne to Bath, only to find her being courted by her cousin, Mr. Elliot, her father's heir. What will Frederick do to gain Anne's mind and heart which he does not realize have always been his for the asking.
And then we get to see their married bliss and adventures that occur after the wedding--so much!!! But I don't want to spoil any surprises.
Regina Jeffers has written yet another amazing variation/continuation of Austen's works, this time with Persuasion, Austen's final book which was published posthumously. Ms. Jeffers tells a compelling and incredible story of love lost and regained, stronger than ever, and we fall in love once again with Anne and her captain.
I don't often give scores of "5" to works that aren't classics, but this version of Persuasion nearly improves upon the original. To out-Austen Miss Austen herself is a difficult accomplishment, but Regina Jeffers has done it. Brava!
This book was delightful from the very first scene which places us in a battle on the high seas as Frederick and his crew pursue a French ship; Anne remains hidden during the battle to keep her safe. And from there the flashbacks begin. We see their first meeting, their almost instantaneous love for one another, their relationship as it moves toward his proposal, the meeting with Sir Walter (which obviously does not go well), and Frederick's anger at Anne when she lets him go, "for his own good."
He thinks he truly hates Anne when he returns to Somerset eight years later, and he does what he can to show her his dislike. He is petty at times--and knows it--but he wants Anne to see what she gave up. His flirtations with Louisa Musgrove are all about showing Anne that he wants a different type of woman, one who knows her own mind. Yet he also pities Anne in her subservient position at Uppercross Cottage with her sister Mary's selfish ways. And he admires Anne as she cares so compassionately for her nephews.
Through the events of Lyme, Frederick finally realizes that Anne is the only woman for him, but he seems to be committed to Louisa after her injury. But after all is sorted, Frederick follows Anne to Bath, only to find her being courted by her cousin, Mr. Elliot, her father's heir. What will Frederick do to gain Anne's mind and heart which he does not realize have always been his for the asking.
And then we get to see their married bliss and adventures that occur after the wedding--so much!!! But I don't want to spoil any surprises.
Regina Jeffers has written yet another amazing variation/continuation of Austen's works, this time with Persuasion, Austen's final book which was published posthumously. Ms. Jeffers tells a compelling and incredible story of love lost and regained, stronger than ever, and we fall in love once again with Anne and her captain.
I don't often give scores of "5" to works that aren't classics, but this version of Persuasion nearly improves upon the original. To out-Austen Miss Austen herself is a difficult accomplishment, but Regina Jeffers has done it. Brava!
September 3, 2012
I think I may be a bit generous with a 2 star rating. This was really not worth my time and I could hardly wait for the end. The title would seem self-explanatory and I love Persuasion, so I was excited for an alternate perspective, yet I just couldn't pallet any of this book. The "retelling" was told as a reflection from some future time for Wentworth and Anne Elliot, and it turned out to be a true "retelling". I had a hard time folding the chronology of Wentworth’s version into the original. Where I would have loved to have known more about his feeling about Anne and her refusal of him, it was all "I love her, I must have her, No woman will ever measure up..." BLAH!!!! No true feelings of betrayal, rejection, confusion...SO one dimensional...The ending then wrapped up with some smuggling scandal trusting Wentworth and his former ship mates to the rescue, all very random and hollow.
I would give this book a big skip. It got the 2nd star because I finished it, but again GENEROUS!!!!
I would give this book a big skip. It got the 2nd star because I finished it, but again GENEROUS!!!!
April 30, 2015
Oh dear. Persuasion is my second favourite Jane Austen novel behind Pride and Prejudice.
I was excited to read this and it didn't live up to my expectations.
It was a little bit over the top in the romance, especially after Wentworth's letter. I found my self skipping over bits because it was so cringey.
Edit: Reread April 2015.
I weirdly liked it more on a second read. I'm not a hundred percent sure why I reread it to be honest, I was just in the mood for some Captain Wentworth.
I liked the romance this time.
However, Anne's character irks me. She's a completely different person and kind of turns into a very sensitive weepy character which I didn't like.
It is a very fun novel though.
I was excited to read this and it didn't live up to my expectations.
It was a little bit over the top in the romance, especially after Wentworth's letter. I found my self skipping over bits because it was so cringey.
Edit: Reread April 2015.
I weirdly liked it more on a second read. I'm not a hundred percent sure why I reread it to be honest, I was just in the mood for some Captain Wentworth.
I liked the romance this time.
However, Anne's character irks me. She's a completely different person and kind of turns into a very sensitive weepy character which I didn't like.
It is a very fun novel though.
December 8, 2016
My rating is more like 3.5. Four stars for the parts that are closely associated with the text of Persuasion. I enjoyed those parts enough to be glad I read the book.
Three stars for the rest, especially the 100 pages after Anne and Frederick declare their love for each other. It was like a different novel - a boring, pointless, repetitive novel. Austen was smart to end Persuasion when and how she did.
I was irritated by the repetitive use of his Anne in italics. I wonder if someone did a change replace to make every instance of "his Anne" print as his Anne because there really is no adequate explanation for it otherwise. The constant use of the endearment "Sweetling" was also annoying.
Three stars for the rest, especially the 100 pages after Anne and Frederick declare their love for each other. It was like a different novel - a boring, pointless, repetitive novel. Austen was smart to end Persuasion when and how she did.
I was irritated by the repetitive use of his Anne in italics. I wonder if someone did a change replace to make every instance of "his Anne" print as his Anne because there really is no adequate explanation for it otherwise. The constant use of the endearment "Sweetling" was also annoying.
March 30, 2010
I would have given this 4.5 stars until the last 50 pager. Maybe it's because I was reading at 12:30 in the morning, but it bugged me how it just went off on a COMPLETELY different direction. It would have been better to end it earlier rather than later. Having said that, Wentworth is still my favorite Jane Austen hero.
October 15, 2021
Very good read. Enjoyed seeing Persuasion from CPT Wentworth's point of view instead of Anne Elliott's. Of course....already knew the story...but it was neat to hear it from his point of view. Also neat to see scenes of their great marriage and how they are working it out.
Look forward to reading more of the "Austenesque" books.
Look forward to reading more of the "Austenesque" books.
December 4, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this retelling of Persuasion told through Captain Wentworth's eyes. It was engaging and insightful and I feel Jeffers complimented the characters with her writing.
As always I have quibbles with the excessive use of pet names Jeffers uses, hahaha! Also I found the part after the marriage to be more "tacked on" and maybe should have been a spin-off in its own right.
As always I have quibbles with the excessive use of pet names Jeffers uses, hahaha! Also I found the part after the marriage to be more "tacked on" and maybe should have been a spin-off in its own right.
January 1, 2012
I liked it at first but then it got a little sappy. I don't think I will any other retelling of Jane Austin's books. I'll read the real thing.
March 22, 2016
This is Persuasion from the point of view of Captain Wentworth, his thoughts, his anguish, his actions, from the first time he sees Anne Elliott until after their marriage.
Loved this story
Loved this story
September 14, 2022
Absolutely terrible.
October 7, 2021
No me gustó para nada.
La historia original desde el punto de vista de Wentworth no es mi favorita, demasiado celoso y vengativo, y cada vez que parecía que ya había superado su rencor por el rechazo de Anne a la pagina siguiente daba 3 pasos para atrás, sin embargo no estuvo tan mal. Pero es que eso lo mezclan con una historia paralela de como Anne esta viviendo con Wentworth a bordo de un barco ahora que están casados y la guerra ha comenzado de nuevo, y ahí ya empezaron a embarrarla porque metieron unas escenas que la verdad me parecieron innecesarias.
Sin embargo si lo hubieran dejado hasta ahí hasta 3 estrellas le pongo, pero es que luego de que terminan la historia original meten una nueva trama de que a Wentworth lo reclutan como agente especial del príncipe regente y le ofrecen no se que titulo nobiliario y lo mandan a vivir al campo a buscar traidores a la corona, y empiezan a meter un montón de personajes que nunca nos habían introducido antes y esperan que nos generen interés. Y vale, que algunos son de la tripulación de Wentworth y alguna mención tuvieron, pero solo el nombre y ya.
Pero lo peor de todo es que luego esa trama la dejan en nada, nos presentan un conflicto sobre que el que reclutó a Wentworth como agente del príncipe en realidad podría estar aliado con los traidores a la corona y lo dejan ahí! justo después de eso acaban el libro con que Anne tuvo mellizos, y fin, todos felices y comiendo perdices. O sea ¿qué necesidad había? el último 20% del libro es como si fuera uno completamente diferente, que lo dejan a la mitad y no resuelven ninguna de las tramas nuevas que habían planteado.
La verdad bastante decepcionada
La historia original desde el punto de vista de Wentworth no es mi favorita, demasiado celoso y vengativo, y cada vez que parecía que ya había superado su rencor por el rechazo de Anne a la pagina siguiente daba 3 pasos para atrás, sin embargo no estuvo tan mal. Pero es que eso lo mezclan con una historia paralela de como Anne esta viviendo con Wentworth a bordo de un barco ahora que están casados y la guerra ha comenzado de nuevo, y ahí ya empezaron a embarrarla porque metieron unas escenas que la verdad me parecieron innecesarias.
Sin embargo si lo hubieran dejado hasta ahí hasta 3 estrellas le pongo, pero es que luego de que terminan la historia original meten una nueva trama de que a Wentworth lo reclutan como agente especial del príncipe regente y le ofrecen no se que titulo nobiliario y lo mandan a vivir al campo a buscar traidores a la corona, y empiezan a meter un montón de personajes que nunca nos habían introducido antes y esperan que nos generen interés. Y vale, que algunos son de la tripulación de Wentworth y alguna mención tuvieron, pero solo el nombre y ya.
Pero lo peor de todo es que luego esa trama la dejan en nada, nos presentan un conflicto sobre que el que reclutó a Wentworth como agente del príncipe en realidad podría estar aliado con los traidores a la corona y lo dejan ahí! justo después de eso acaban el libro con que Anne tuvo mellizos, y fin, todos felices y comiendo perdices. O sea ¿qué necesidad había? el último 20% del libro es como si fuera uno completamente diferente, que lo dejan a la mitad y no resuelven ninguna de las tramas nuevas que habían planteado.
La verdad bastante decepcionada
Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews