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More Than a Pretty Face: A Variation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice
Love is not the simple thing that novels and poetry speak of. It is by turns subtle and overwhelming, it may slip silently into your heart or strike like a bolt of lightning It is a truth universally acknowledged that Elizabeth Bennet is the wittiest lady in Hertfordshire, and her sister Jane is the most beautiful. Their other qualities, however, are less widely recognised, even by those who profess to love them. Disappointed by Mr Bingley’s sudden departure, Jane escapes the tumult of Longbourn for the Gardiners’ house in London. Elizabeth, vexed by her own romantic debacle with Mr Darcy, and in possession of distressing intelligence which could endanger their family and neighbours in Meryton, soon joins her there from Kent. When a family crisis causes them to extend their stay in Cheapside, a new acquaintance—handsome and titled—brings the Bennet sisters to the attention of London society and returns them to the company of Mr Darcy and Mr Bingley. One man finds himself with a rival for his lady’s affections, while the other struggles to make amends for the mistakes of the past. As Elizabeth questions her rejection of the master of Pemberley and Jane begins to open her heart, can the qualities that most matter—intelligence, integrity, humour and kindness—be recognised by the men who truly love and respect them?
332 pages, Paperback
Published May 10, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
May 31, 2022
The title refers to Jane Bennet - and that is, by far, the best of the various storylines in this book in terms of originality and development. Like many other books that originated online, this story's plot sprouts branches that veer off into numerous directions. Each Bennet sister has her own story (especially Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, of course) as well as Caroline Bingley and Mrs. Bennet and various other secondary characters. It's a long, low-angst saga, wherein all the unpleasant characters either reform or get their comeuppance - and none of their saber-rattling causes difficulties - while all the admirable ones prosper.
The writing itself is quite good. Unfortunately, I struggled to stay engaged through the many irrelevant scenes (shopping trips, room decor, menu items) and to keep track of the excessive number of stories. There's also a total lack of significant obstacles to be overcome.
Not my cuppa tea.
The writing itself is quite good. Unfortunately, I struggled to stay engaged through the many irrelevant scenes (shopping trips, room decor, menu items) and to keep track of the excessive number of stories. There's also a total lack of significant obstacles to be overcome.
Not my cuppa tea.
September 24, 2025
It is a rare woman who can overcome her desire to remain pretty and allow herself to become beautiful. ~ Robert Brault
As our story opens, Elizabeth has returned from Hunsford with her memories of a disastrous proposal. The oldest Bennet sisters are residing in London. Mrs. Gardiner is having a difficult early pregnancy and the sisters help with the household and the children.
Mr. Gardiner is visited by Lord Henry Lyfford to negotiate a change in pricing for the wool Gardiner buys from the Lyfford estate. Obvious differences are uncovered between what Gardiner’s records show he paid and what Lyfford’s records show he received. Gardiner offers to call his niece who is very good with mathematics to review the differences in the corresponding records.
At this point, I thought this was going to be another “super Lizzy” story with Elizabeth being outstanding in every possible area of life. Instead, I read this paragraph:
Mr. Gardiner rang for a servant to fetch his niece. A few minutes later the door to the study opened, and through it came the loveliest creature Lyfford had ever beheld. He might perhaps have seen a more beautiful face, or more golden hair, or eyes of a deeper blue, but never united and certainly never in company with such a sweet, serene expression.
Jane Bennet meets Rainman!
The story manages not to turn into a “super Jane” story either. Portraits of both sisters are somewhat advanced from canon but not unbelievably so. Jane has more shine as an intelligent being. During her stay in London, Jane has reached conclusions on her own:
1. The Bingley sisters are not her friends.
2. Charles Bingley is not her perfect suitor.
Jane is emotionally free to form a new romance!
A wise man once said that a woman deserved no credit for her beauty at sixteen, but beauty at sixty was her own soul's doing. ~ Marie Carmichael Stopes
Lord Lyfford continues his attentions to Miss Bennet. When he meets with his friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy, he understands the man’s low spirits.
The story follows the romances of both the Bennet sisters. Jane’s story seemed to be more prominent but that may be just that her story is a departure from the norm. Elizabeth’s story is closer to the usual JAFF tale.
The sisters agree the Bennet family, as well as the village of Meryton, needs some warning about possible damages from George Wickham. Elizabeth journeys home to speak to her father. Lydia distinguishes herself once again, but with very different results from her family. Hurrah for Mrs. Bennet!
What is really beautiful needs no adorning. We do not grind down the pearl upon a polishing stone. ~ Sataka
“More Than a Pretty Face” kept my interest to the end. I loved the portrait of a stronger Jane. I wondered if it should have been slanted more to be Jane’s story with Elizabeth’s romance as a sidelight. I think Jane could have stood on her own in this one.
Although the Bingleys are not the main players, the story has several good Caroline set-downs. I always like those.
“I must, however, thank you, dear Caro, for the extensive descriptions of Pemberley which you related last year. Because of your information, I am able to quite look forward to my new home, though I have yet to see it myself. Perhaps one day we shall meet there… if you are fortunate enough to secure an invitation from the mistress of the house.”
Yeah, I always love a good comeuppance for our dear Caro!
For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.
For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.
For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.
For beautiful hair, let a child run his fingers through it once a day.
For poise, walk with the knowledge that you will never walk alone...
~ Sam Levenson, In One Era and Out the Other, 1973
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As our story opens, Elizabeth has returned from Hunsford with her memories of a disastrous proposal. The oldest Bennet sisters are residing in London. Mrs. Gardiner is having a difficult early pregnancy and the sisters help with the household and the children.
Mr. Gardiner is visited by Lord Henry Lyfford to negotiate a change in pricing for the wool Gardiner buys from the Lyfford estate. Obvious differences are uncovered between what Gardiner’s records show he paid and what Lyfford’s records show he received. Gardiner offers to call his niece who is very good with mathematics to review the differences in the corresponding records.
At this point, I thought this was going to be another “super Lizzy” story with Elizabeth being outstanding in every possible area of life. Instead, I read this paragraph:
Mr. Gardiner rang for a servant to fetch his niece. A few minutes later the door to the study opened, and through it came the loveliest creature Lyfford had ever beheld. He might perhaps have seen a more beautiful face, or more golden hair, or eyes of a deeper blue, but never united and certainly never in company with such a sweet, serene expression.
Jane Bennet meets Rainman!
The story manages not to turn into a “super Jane” story either. Portraits of both sisters are somewhat advanced from canon but not unbelievably so. Jane has more shine as an intelligent being. During her stay in London, Jane has reached conclusions on her own:
1. The Bingley sisters are not her friends.
2. Charles Bingley is not her perfect suitor.
Jane is emotionally free to form a new romance!
A wise man once said that a woman deserved no credit for her beauty at sixteen, but beauty at sixty was her own soul's doing. ~ Marie Carmichael Stopes
Lord Lyfford continues his attentions to Miss Bennet. When he meets with his friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy, he understands the man’s low spirits.
The story follows the romances of both the Bennet sisters. Jane’s story seemed to be more prominent but that may be just that her story is a departure from the norm. Elizabeth’s story is closer to the usual JAFF tale.
The sisters agree the Bennet family, as well as the village of Meryton, needs some warning about possible damages from George Wickham. Elizabeth journeys home to speak to her father. Lydia distinguishes herself once again, but with very different results from her family. Hurrah for Mrs. Bennet!
What is really beautiful needs no adorning. We do not grind down the pearl upon a polishing stone. ~ Sataka
“More Than a Pretty Face” kept my interest to the end. I loved the portrait of a stronger Jane. I wondered if it should have been slanted more to be Jane’s story with Elizabeth’s romance as a sidelight. I think Jane could have stood on her own in this one.
Although the Bingleys are not the main players, the story has several good Caroline set-downs. I always like those.
“I must, however, thank you, dear Caro, for the extensive descriptions of Pemberley which you related last year. Because of your information, I am able to quite look forward to my new home, though I have yet to see it myself. Perhaps one day we shall meet there… if you are fortunate enough to secure an invitation from the mistress of the house.”
Yeah, I always love a good comeuppance for our dear Caro!
For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.
For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.
For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.
For beautiful hair, let a child run his fingers through it once a day.
For poise, walk with the knowledge that you will never walk alone...
~ Sam Levenson, In One Era and Out the Other, 1973
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 23, 2022
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: PG17: mild swearing >>Angst Level: mostly lovers’ angst, no major angst fest or danger other than threats to reputations. There was mild stress due to health issues with a character. Then, of course, the little brat Lydia had to act out only this time she received a very different outcome. >>Fan Points: I may need a new fan. I have run out of Gorilla Glue trying to fix them. Whew! The swoon-worthy declarations were so delicious. >>Source: I received an ARC via BookSprout [4-22-22] The views expressed are my own. >>Trope: a different love arc for our Jane Bennet. >>Timeline: Post Kent and the DHP [Disastrous Hunsford Proposal]
This was a new author for me and I was reluctant to venture into reading their story. Oh, how wrong I was. I waltzed in with my nose in the air ready to be bored and suddenly was caught up in a totally new twist in Austen’s story. Jane Bennet was not the milquetoast portrayed in many JAFF stories. Oh, no. This lady had a brilliant mind and kept it hidden under a bushel. There was a whole lot more to Jane Bennet than her pretty face, thus the title. I really liked her and was as shocked as others to discover the depths of her character. Elizabeth Bennet wasn’t the only intelligent sister in the family. The revelations just kept coming.
“Love is not the simple thing that novels and poetry speak of. It is by turns subtle and overwhelming, it may slip silently into your heart or strike like a bolt of lightning.” Quote from the book
You know that moment when the scales fall off your eyes and you suddenly see things the way they are and not the way you thought they were? This was the situation for Jane and Elizabeth. Jane saw Mr. Bingley for who and what he was while Elizabeth did the same with Mr. Darcy. However, they were not alone. The Mirror of Truth also allowed Darcy and Bingley to see their true selves and what their behavior had done during their sojourn into Hertfordshire and the havoc that laid waste to their reputations and standing as gentlemen. A situation at Longbourn with Lydia’s behavior allowed her parents to see her for what she was. A spoilt brat whose behavior they could no longer ignore. Oh-My-Gosh! How long have we wanted her parents to snatch her up and throw her back into the nursery? Well, let’s just say that Miss Lydia did not take well to correction from her mother or her father and rebelled big time. It was horrid. However, our author spared the reader the worst of it as Jane and Elizabeth learned of her exploits via letters.
Things that I liked: I was impressed with how the author delved into the motivations behind actions. Insights were revealed that I found fascinating. The relationship evolving between M/M Bennet was cute to watch as the house was now calm without Lydia causing chaos. Was this wild child truly the hub central for the dissension that existed in the family? Mrs. Bennet saw her life through a different lens as did Mr. Bennet. Even though the main story was Jane and her HEA, we also enjoyed plenty of D & E time together. There were many little nuggets of surprise where something took a different spin or the author explained why things were as they were. I found them interesting.
What I didn’t like: just a few things. It felt off the deeper I progressed. In order for one light to shine brightly, another had to diminish. Elizabeth felt less in order for Jane to shine brighter. Also, I wasn’t crazy about the descriptions of food and decorations. The story was long enough as it was without extraneous descriptions. It could benefit from a bit of trimming in some of those areas and side ventures not necessary to the story. Then there were the different story threads running concurrently. Too many threads to follow usually ends up with something invariably dropped and the reader doesn’t know what the heck happened to a few of the characters. At least there was an epilogue. In spite of that, I highly recommend this for a delightful JAFF variation.
>>Rating: PG17: mild swearing >>Angst Level: mostly lovers’ angst, no major angst fest or danger other than threats to reputations. There was mild stress due to health issues with a character. Then, of course, the little brat Lydia had to act out only this time she received a very different outcome. >>Fan Points: I may need a new fan. I have run out of Gorilla Glue trying to fix them. Whew! The swoon-worthy declarations were so delicious. >>Source: I received an ARC via BookSprout [4-22-22] The views expressed are my own. >>Trope: a different love arc for our Jane Bennet. >>Timeline: Post Kent and the DHP [Disastrous Hunsford Proposal]
This was a new author for me and I was reluctant to venture into reading their story. Oh, how wrong I was. I waltzed in with my nose in the air ready to be bored and suddenly was caught up in a totally new twist in Austen’s story. Jane Bennet was not the milquetoast portrayed in many JAFF stories. Oh, no. This lady had a brilliant mind and kept it hidden under a bushel. There was a whole lot more to Jane Bennet than her pretty face, thus the title. I really liked her and was as shocked as others to discover the depths of her character. Elizabeth Bennet wasn’t the only intelligent sister in the family. The revelations just kept coming.
“Love is not the simple thing that novels and poetry speak of. It is by turns subtle and overwhelming, it may slip silently into your heart or strike like a bolt of lightning.” Quote from the book
You know that moment when the scales fall off your eyes and you suddenly see things the way they are and not the way you thought they were? This was the situation for Jane and Elizabeth. Jane saw Mr. Bingley for who and what he was while Elizabeth did the same with Mr. Darcy. However, they were not alone. The Mirror of Truth also allowed Darcy and Bingley to see their true selves and what their behavior had done during their sojourn into Hertfordshire and the havoc that laid waste to their reputations and standing as gentlemen. A situation at Longbourn with Lydia’s behavior allowed her parents to see her for what she was. A spoilt brat whose behavior they could no longer ignore. Oh-My-Gosh! How long have we wanted her parents to snatch her up and throw her back into the nursery? Well, let’s just say that Miss Lydia did not take well to correction from her mother or her father and rebelled big time. It was horrid. However, our author spared the reader the worst of it as Jane and Elizabeth learned of her exploits via letters.
Things that I liked: I was impressed with how the author delved into the motivations behind actions. Insights were revealed that I found fascinating. The relationship evolving between M/M Bennet was cute to watch as the house was now calm without Lydia causing chaos. Was this wild child truly the hub central for the dissension that existed in the family? Mrs. Bennet saw her life through a different lens as did Mr. Bennet. Even though the main story was Jane and her HEA, we also enjoyed plenty of D & E time together. There were many little nuggets of surprise where something took a different spin or the author explained why things were as they were. I found them interesting.
What I didn’t like: just a few things. It felt off the deeper I progressed. In order for one light to shine brightly, another had to diminish. Elizabeth felt less in order for Jane to shine brighter. Also, I wasn’t crazy about the descriptions of food and decorations. The story was long enough as it was without extraneous descriptions. It could benefit from a bit of trimming in some of those areas and side ventures not necessary to the story. Then there were the different story threads running concurrently. Too many threads to follow usually ends up with something invariably dropped and the reader doesn’t know what the heck happened to a few of the characters. At least there was an epilogue. In spite of that, I highly recommend this for a delightful JAFF variation.
March 11, 2023
Very Good Debut
4.5* rounded up
Bingley’s departure from Netherfield finds Jane with the Gardiners in London. Lord Lyfford has just inherited an earldom, and approaches Mr. Gardiner concerning past sales of his wool. Uncle Gardiner enlists the aid of math whiz Jane in helping the new lord figure out discrepancies in his ledgers. Admiring her intelligence and not just her beauty, Lord Lyfford will continue to call, and Jane will find herself questioning whether she ever loved Mr. Bingley at all. The fact that this lord is also a friend of Darcy’s will once again bring him together in company with the Miss Bennets and rekindle his relationship with Elizabeth.
Elizabeth and Jane have also decided to make Wickham’s ways known to Mr. Bennet in order to protect their younger sisters. This will result in significant changes in the Bennet household—an eye-opening moment for Mrs. Bennet and hard lessons for Lydia. It will also bring positive changes for Mary and Kitty.
This sweet and charming debut novel by Frances Reynolds provides the reader with a fresh new look at Jane Bennet. I really loved this portrayal of her. Not just beautiful, she is also intelligent and definitely not a pushover, as there are reckonings to be had for Miss Bingley and even her own sister, Lydia. I loved Aunt Bingley, who has come to London to help Mr. Bingley rein in Caroline. Elizabeth will also have her moments with Caroline, as well as Lady Catherine.
I loved the author’s crisp and grammatically-correct writing style. There isn’t a dangling preposition to be found. Oh, how I take delight in proper sentence structure! Well done! A light read, the plot isn’t heavy, or filled with angst. It’s a pleasingly happy story for Jane and Elizabeth and their beaux. I loved Lord Lyfford. A perfect match for this Jane.
Loved the story and I recommend it. I look forward to more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
March 11, 2023 - Audiobook
Another wonderfully presented narration by the outstanding Stevie Zimmerman. Excellent book, excellent narrator. Definitely recommend the audiobook too.
4.5* rounded up
Bingley’s departure from Netherfield finds Jane with the Gardiners in London. Lord Lyfford has just inherited an earldom, and approaches Mr. Gardiner concerning past sales of his wool. Uncle Gardiner enlists the aid of math whiz Jane in helping the new lord figure out discrepancies in his ledgers. Admiring her intelligence and not just her beauty, Lord Lyfford will continue to call, and Jane will find herself questioning whether she ever loved Mr. Bingley at all. The fact that this lord is also a friend of Darcy’s will once again bring him together in company with the Miss Bennets and rekindle his relationship with Elizabeth.
Elizabeth and Jane have also decided to make Wickham’s ways known to Mr. Bennet in order to protect their younger sisters. This will result in significant changes in the Bennet household—an eye-opening moment for Mrs. Bennet and hard lessons for Lydia. It will also bring positive changes for Mary and Kitty.
This sweet and charming debut novel by Frances Reynolds provides the reader with a fresh new look at Jane Bennet. I really loved this portrayal of her. Not just beautiful, she is also intelligent and definitely not a pushover, as there are reckonings to be had for Miss Bingley and even her own sister, Lydia. I loved Aunt Bingley, who has come to London to help Mr. Bingley rein in Caroline. Elizabeth will also have her moments with Caroline, as well as Lady Catherine.
I loved the author’s crisp and grammatically-correct writing style. There isn’t a dangling preposition to be found. Oh, how I take delight in proper sentence structure! Well done! A light read, the plot isn’t heavy, or filled with angst. It’s a pleasingly happy story for Jane and Elizabeth and their beaux. I loved Lord Lyfford. A perfect match for this Jane.
Loved the story and I recommend it. I look forward to more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
March 11, 2023 - Audiobook
Another wonderfully presented narration by the outstanding Stevie Zimmerman. Excellent book, excellent narrator. Definitely recommend the audiobook too.
April 30, 2022
Little changes take the whole family down a different path
This is a subtle, low angst story, in which small changes from canon, bring big changes to our main characters.
Jane is in London still smarting from being dumped by the whole Bingley family. She makes a resolution to herself to step up and go for what she thinks is best for herself. Elizabeth returns to London from Hunsford, overwrought and confused. Together they decide to warn their father about Wickham to keep their family safe, little knowing what effect that will ultimately have on the whole family. Jane stays in London to help care for the children and a very ill, pregnant Mrs. Gardiner, hoping Elizabeth will be able to return to assist following her communications with Mr. Bennet.
When the Earl of Lyfford, a business contact of Mr Gardiner's, meets Jane for accounting assistance, she has the opportunity to put her new resolve in to play. We are revealed to multiple layers of her character and intellect, which she never allowed herself to show before.
Then Darcy ends up visiting the Gardiners and he takes the opportunity for a second chance, introducing them to his sister, apologizing and acting altogether different.
Even though we have lovely interaction between ODC as they reach a new and better understanding. I found this story to be much more Jane-centric.
Between J and E, it is Jane that goes through the most changes. Or rather she allows herself to finally fulfill more of her character's potential, than she had in the past. This also brings her the largest rewards in regards to consequence.
Bingley and Caroline have their moments, well placed within the shifts of the story. Lady C of course rears her ugly head, but the hero in that moment is a surprise.
Mrs. Bennet's eyes get oh so shockingly opened, but she rises to her challenge, without losing that little something that makes her Mrs. B.
Several other new characters fill and balance it all out. I will add that Kitty's end was not a surprise to me, it kind of felt like it would go that way.
There is an epilogue with details on how some of the female characters fared, but not all of them. I know not everyone is a fan of epilogues, I for one would have been interested to know what happened to all 5 Bennet sisters.
An enjoyable effort from this first time author. Not completely my cup of tea, but I will be very interested to check out future publications of FR.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a subtle, low angst story, in which small changes from canon, bring big changes to our main characters.
Jane is in London still smarting from being dumped by the whole Bingley family. She makes a resolution to herself to step up and go for what she thinks is best for herself. Elizabeth returns to London from Hunsford, overwrought and confused. Together they decide to warn their father about Wickham to keep their family safe, little knowing what effect that will ultimately have on the whole family. Jane stays in London to help care for the children and a very ill, pregnant Mrs. Gardiner, hoping Elizabeth will be able to return to assist following her communications with Mr. Bennet.
When the Earl of Lyfford, a business contact of Mr Gardiner's, meets Jane for accounting assistance, she has the opportunity to put her new resolve in to play. We are revealed to multiple layers of her character and intellect, which she never allowed herself to show before.
Then Darcy ends up visiting the Gardiners and he takes the opportunity for a second chance, introducing them to his sister, apologizing and acting altogether different.
Even though we have lovely interaction between ODC as they reach a new and better understanding. I found this story to be much more Jane-centric.
Between J and E, it is Jane that goes through the most changes. Or rather she allows herself to finally fulfill more of her character's potential, than she had in the past. This also brings her the largest rewards in regards to consequence.
Bingley and Caroline have their moments, well placed within the shifts of the story. Lady C of course rears her ugly head, but the hero in that moment is a surprise.
Mrs. Bennet's eyes get oh so shockingly opened, but she rises to her challenge, without losing that little something that makes her Mrs. B.
Several other new characters fill and balance it all out. I will add that Kitty's end was not a surprise to me, it kind of felt like it would go that way.
There is an epilogue with details on how some of the female characters fared, but not all of them. I know not everyone is a fan of epilogues, I for one would have been interested to know what happened to all 5 Bennet sisters.
An enjoyable effort from this first time author. Not completely my cup of tea, but I will be very interested to check out future publications of FR.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 23, 2022
"The public and private humiliation of having been thrown over for reasons unknown was indeed painful, but she found some solace in the certainty that her behaviour in the matter had been entirely proper." (quote from the book)
I adored this variation but am struggling to write this review without giving away too much! It takes place after the Hunsford debacle, which I always cringe at when reading. Jane is in London trying to move past her heartache caused by Mr. Bingley's abandonment by helping Mrs. Gardiner. Elizabeth has returned from Kent with Maria Lucas, and they are staying with the Gardiners until they return to Longbourn. The book description gives a succinct explanation of what to expect, but at the same time teases the reader to find out more.
This is more a rendering of Jane Bennet's journey through heartache to becoming a woman who is strong, intelligent and loved for more than her beauty. The rival for her heart sees Jane for 'more than a pretty face'. It explores in more depth her growth and a different path for the Bennet family. Fear not, Elizabeth Bennet's path ends where it should (that is not a spoiler) however, her journey diverts slightly. I enjoyed how Elizabeth and Darcy come together and see each other more clearly.
For me, this was a gentle tale with life's usual vexations. Yes, some are more than trying than others and our beloved characters are tested, but they grow stronger for it. When Elizabeth must return to Longbourn to ensure the protection of her family, the letter she writes to Jane in London provides news that is shocking indeed! The furor Mrs. Bennet enacts leaves the family stunned.
"What's this I hear about you outraging a peer of the realm? Have you not the sense God gave a flea?" (quote from the book)
Our usual harpies try to have their say in the conversation, and when Mr. Bingley finds he must take control of his family, he calls in reinforcements...Great-Aunt Bingley. She was priceless!
"Love is not the simple thing that novels and poetry speak of. It is by turns subtle and overwhelming, it may slip silently into your heart or strike like a bolt of lightning." (quote from the book)
The original characters created, Henry Markham, the Earl of Lyfford to be exact, and the subtle shifts in the story that made it unique, provided me with many hours of pure enjoyment. This a novel that has slipped right into my heart, and one I will return to again and again.
Needless to say, I highly recommend it. Brava Ms. Reynolds on your debut novel!
I was fortunate to receive a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I adored this variation but am struggling to write this review without giving away too much! It takes place after the Hunsford debacle, which I always cringe at when reading. Jane is in London trying to move past her heartache caused by Mr. Bingley's abandonment by helping Mrs. Gardiner. Elizabeth has returned from Kent with Maria Lucas, and they are staying with the Gardiners until they return to Longbourn. The book description gives a succinct explanation of what to expect, but at the same time teases the reader to find out more.
This is more a rendering of Jane Bennet's journey through heartache to becoming a woman who is strong, intelligent and loved for more than her beauty. The rival for her heart sees Jane for 'more than a pretty face'. It explores in more depth her growth and a different path for the Bennet family. Fear not, Elizabeth Bennet's path ends where it should (that is not a spoiler) however, her journey diverts slightly. I enjoyed how Elizabeth and Darcy come together and see each other more clearly.
For me, this was a gentle tale with life's usual vexations. Yes, some are more than trying than others and our beloved characters are tested, but they grow stronger for it. When Elizabeth must return to Longbourn to ensure the protection of her family, the letter she writes to Jane in London provides news that is shocking indeed! The furor Mrs. Bennet enacts leaves the family stunned.
"What's this I hear about you outraging a peer of the realm? Have you not the sense God gave a flea?" (quote from the book)
Our usual harpies try to have their say in the conversation, and when Mr. Bingley finds he must take control of his family, he calls in reinforcements...Great-Aunt Bingley. She was priceless!
"Love is not the simple thing that novels and poetry speak of. It is by turns subtle and overwhelming, it may slip silently into your heart or strike like a bolt of lightning." (quote from the book)
The original characters created, Henry Markham, the Earl of Lyfford to be exact, and the subtle shifts in the story that made it unique, provided me with many hours of pure enjoyment. This a novel that has slipped right into my heart, and one I will return to again and again.
Needless to say, I highly recommend it. Brava Ms. Reynolds on your debut novel!
I was fortunate to receive a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 1, 2022
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars.
As other reviews have pointed out the title refers to Jane and much of the first half of the story is her story.
Elizabeth returns to London after the disastrous Hunsford proposal from Darcy. Jane is staying with the Gardiners as their aunt is having a very difficult pregnancy. While there a Henry Markham, the Earl of Lyfford, comes to London, having recently inherited his estate and finding that the sale prices for his wool and clay are below market-value. Gardiner, as one of the main wool customers, is consulted and asked to come up with the difference. However, upon comparing account books, and later with the help of Jane (a mathematical wizard) it is learned that Markham's steward is embezzling monies. Markham is impressed with Jane for more that her "pretty face" and soon seeks and wins a courtship.
This Jane also has more perception into her past relationships with the Bingleys.
It turns out that Lyfford and Darcy are friends and soon Darcy is also visiting at the Gardiners as well as introducing Georgiana into that circle. The romances take up page space here on out.
We also are treated to a different story for the Bennets and Wickham. Elizabeth shares what she learned from Darcy with Jane and then with her father. Mr. Bennet acts promptly to separate his daughters from Wickham. Lydia has a loud and, at times, aggressive reaction to that new limitation on her behavior. Now we read of Mrs. Bennet also changing in her attitude with Lydia. It is not a pretty picture. I did like reading of new controls being places on Lydia, who eventually is sent to an academy to learn new behaviors.
Kitty and Mary have larger roles in this tale, which I enjoyed. There is an epilogue which I always enjoy. I highly recommend this story.
As other reviews have pointed out the title refers to Jane and much of the first half of the story is her story.
Elizabeth returns to London after the disastrous Hunsford proposal from Darcy. Jane is staying with the Gardiners as their aunt is having a very difficult pregnancy. While there a Henry Markham, the Earl of Lyfford, comes to London, having recently inherited his estate and finding that the sale prices for his wool and clay are below market-value. Gardiner, as one of the main wool customers, is consulted and asked to come up with the difference. However, upon comparing account books, and later with the help of Jane (a mathematical wizard) it is learned that Markham's steward is embezzling monies. Markham is impressed with Jane for more that her "pretty face" and soon seeks and wins a courtship.
This Jane also has more perception into her past relationships with the Bingleys.
It turns out that Lyfford and Darcy are friends and soon Darcy is also visiting at the Gardiners as well as introducing Georgiana into that circle. The romances take up page space here on out.
We also are treated to a different story for the Bennets and Wickham. Elizabeth shares what she learned from Darcy with Jane and then with her father. Mr. Bennet acts promptly to separate his daughters from Wickham. Lydia has a loud and, at times, aggressive reaction to that new limitation on her behavior. Now we read of Mrs. Bennet also changing in her attitude with Lydia. It is not a pretty picture. I did like reading of new controls being places on Lydia, who eventually is sent to an academy to learn new behaviors.
Kitty and Mary have larger roles in this tale, which I enjoyed. There is an epilogue which I always enjoy. I highly recommend this story.
June 1, 2022
This is a change I really am really liking in P&P what ifs.
We have strong women in the Bennet family. Mrs Bennet gets a spine, Jane gets a brain and Lydia gets her comeuppance.
After Bingley disses Jane she goes to London with the Gardiners where she meets a real man who can appreciate her for more than her beauty. Turns out our Jane is an Ada Lovelace and her math skills are wicked.
And Jane gets her HEA and so do other people. I loved it
We have strong women in the Bennet family. Mrs Bennet gets a spine, Jane gets a brain and Lydia gets her comeuppance.
After Bingley disses Jane she goes to London with the Gardiners where she meets a real man who can appreciate her for more than her beauty. Turns out our Jane is an Ada Lovelace and her math skills are wicked.
And Jane gets her HEA and so do other people. I loved it
May 26, 2022
Jane is more than a pretty face
Jane is more than a pretty face. After being abandoned by Bingley, Jane gas second thoughts about him and decides she needs someone loves all of her and respects all of her and will settle for nothing less.
This changes Lizzy’s story about her acquaintance with Darcy.
Well written story and I’ll probably read it again.
Jane is more than a pretty face. After being abandoned by Bingley, Jane gas second thoughts about him and decides she needs someone loves all of her and respects all of her and will settle for nothing less.
This changes Lizzy’s story about her acquaintance with Darcy.
Well written story and I’ll probably read it again.
May 9, 2023
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
The essence of this story is that the main protagonists all achieve insight into their own characters. Each develops a different view of the world and their place in it.
The story begins when Elizabeth Bennet returns from Hunsford, following Fitzwilliam Darcy’s dreadful proposal and their subsequent argument.
She joins her sister Jane, at the Gracechurch Street house of their Aunt and Uncle Gardiner.
Elizabeth has had her eyes opened, following her interactions with Darcy. She had thought him wicked and Mr Wickham to be all that was good.
His revelations that Wickham is a rake and a scoundrel shatter her belief in her skills as a judge of character.
Jane has been slowly recovering from her heartbreak over Charles Bingley’s abandonment. She has put aside her rose tinted view of the world, to recognise that the Bingley sisters are harpies and Charles Bingley is a weak character.
This revelation has made her feel a great deal better about herself.
When the newly minted Lord Lyfford meets Mr Gardiner for a business meeting, he explains that he thinks his steward is embezzling from his estate. When they look at the books, Gardiner asks Jane to assist. Thus, it is revealed that Jane has prodigious skill with numbers. Lyfford is impressed with both her mind and her beauty.
And so, begins a relationship of respect, esteem and love.
When Darcy meets his old friend Lyfford, he is encouraged to court Elizabeth and show that he can be a better man than she has believed him to be.
In a parallel story, Elizabeth tries to ensure that her family and the town of Meryton are protected from the predations of Mr Wickham.
It takes some time to motivate her apathetic father but progress is made. All the family but Lydia accepts that Wickham is bad.
Her behaviour finally triggers Mr Bennet to act and shockingly Mrs Bennet agrees.
A stunned Lydia finds herself relegated to the nursery. Further stubborn and reckless behaviour leads to her windows being boarded up and Mr Bennet searching for an appropriate school!
Overall, this is an enjoyable, low angst story.
I liked seeing Jane portrayed as intelligent.
A chastened Darcy makes good, after courting Elizabeth rather than assuming she will have him and Lyfford is lovely from the beginning.
It was also good to see Lydia finally “getting it”!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2022
Mrs. Gardiner is ailing so both Jane and Elizabeth stay in London after Hunsford. Through Mr. Gardiner, Jane makes the acquaintance of Henry Markham, the earl of Lyfford. He is smitten with Jane, but unlike Bingley, not just because she's pretty to look at. I love this story for giving Jane a more multifaceted personality. She is still beautiful and kind, but she's also got a great head for maths and Lyfford sees other facets of her to admire. Jane Bennet, really, you can do better than getting saddled with Caroline Bingley for life.
Lyfford is a friend of Darcy's so Darcy gets a useful lesson in choosing his priorities as money and social status are secondary to true respect and mutual affection. He asks Elizabeth for a second chance to make himself more agreeable, and this is granted. I loved the second proposal scene.
Other characters who learn and grow include the Bennets who wise up regarding Wickham and make some changes regarding Lydia and her sisters. The Bingleys get a deserved setdown, although Charles learns more of it than Caroline does.
Steam level: Marital intimacy takes place behind closed doors.
I received a copy from Booksprout and this is a voluntary review,
Lyfford is a friend of Darcy's so Darcy gets a useful lesson in choosing his priorities as money and social status are secondary to true respect and mutual affection. He asks Elizabeth for a second chance to make himself more agreeable, and this is granted. I loved the second proposal scene.
Other characters who learn and grow include the Bennets who wise up regarding Wickham and make some changes regarding Lydia and her sisters. The Bingleys get a deserved setdown, although Charles learns more of it than Caroline does.
Steam level: Marital intimacy takes place behind closed doors.
I received a copy from Booksprout and this is a voluntary review,
July 26, 2022
This variation is more about Jane than Elizabeth, although there is quite a bit of her too. The eldest Bennet daughters live with the Gardiner family post Hunsford to help their Aunt with a tough pregnancy. A request to have Jane check some numbers leads her down a path to a happily ever after where she is loved and appreciated for her intelligence. All the other Bennet sisters have their own revelations and happy endings too.
I loved the Jane parts of the story. Based on the conclusion, I am not sure why there was so much Elizabeth and Darcy included. Mr and Mrs Bennet have a wonderful transformation and I always appreciate when the usually unseen sisters have their time to shine.
I loved the Jane parts of the story. Based on the conclusion, I am not sure why there was so much Elizabeth and Darcy included. Mr and Mrs Bennet have a wonderful transformation and I always appreciate when the usually unseen sisters have their time to shine.
May 7, 2022
Well done. One of the best characterizations of Jane that I've seen.
June 19, 2022
One of my fave Jane love stories ever but what happened to Mary?
May 26, 2022
Very well written and enjoyable to read. Great Jane character. 4.5 rounded up; the ending dragged on for a bit. Great debut, will seek out this author's future works.
June 21, 2023
What If an Earl in London Saw More in Jane Than Her Beauty and Angelic Demeanor?
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
THE PREMISE: Elizabeth and Jane remain in London with Mrs. Gardiner while she endures a difficult and troubling pregnancy. And while there, Jane makes the acquaintance of a titled gentleman – Henry Markham, the Earl of Lyfford – who shares some business dealings with her uncle. Jane lends him some assistance and a tentative friendship begins that also brings Lord Lyfford’s friend, Mr. Darcy (who is hoping to amend Elizabeth’s opinion of him), back into their lives. Will these encounters with two of London’s most eligible men lead to happy unions for the Bennet sisters?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Jane Bennet: LOVE that there is more to Jane in this story. I love that she has more to offer than a kind heart and serene disposition. This Jane has an amazing talent for tabulating numbers and figures in her head, she plays the harp, and she has opinions about politics and current events. I love the idea of Jane Bennet having all theses hidden depths that only some – those who care enough to look beyond her exterior – discover.
- Lord Lyfford: A fantastic new original character! I loved his storyline – how he is adapting to his new role as master of Lyfford Hall, how he has some siblings and relations under his care, and how he discovers that his estate profits are well below what they should be. I loved all the unique developments and depths of his character. He is a man of principals and responsibilities. I admired that he saw and valued Jane. He actually “sees” her. And he treats her with such understanding and respect. In addition, I love that he has a strong backbone and is ready to speak up against others or put people in their place. Well done with this new hero, Ms. Reynolds!
- Thwarting Wickham: Some new actions are taken to protect the women of Longbourn and Meryton, and I was happy to see Wickham no more! Lol! I really loved that this path was taken, and wish it could always be so. But alas, the Lydia/Wickham scandal does create some great Act III drama.
- Longbourn Changes: With some new revelations made, Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are spurred into some action. Finally! I loved seeing Mr. Bennet take a more active role in his family – he gives new strictures for his younger daughters, but also spends some time with them and tries to connect with their interests. And how great was it to see Mrs. Bennet act with sense and not indulge her youngest daughter’s every desire?!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Long Engagements and Falling Action: I absolutely adored the first half of the book where there was so many developments happening with our principal couples and their relationships. But it felt like there really wasn’t much going on in the second half of the book. There were a few comeuppances served to some antagonistic characters, but overall the engagement period was around 200+ pages and 100+ pages for both couples, and in that time there really wasn’t any new developments between them aside from meeting their future families, redecorating rooms in their future homes, and sharing dinners together. I would have loved more of the depth and conflicts explored in the first half of the book to continue in the second half.
RATING BREAKDOWN:
5 stars for Jane Bennet’s storyline
4 stars for Elizabeth Bennet’s storyline – Jane’s outshined hers just a bit
4 stars for the overall story arc and premise execution
* If I could give a book 4.25 stars, that’s where I’d land with this one
CONCLUSION:
More Than A Pretty Face is a delightful Pride and Prejudice variation that spotlights Jane Bennet, the hidden depths and talents people may possess, and the importance of not judging others only by what you see on the outside. This is a perfect tale for readers who are in search for a light, thoughtful, and inventive tale featuring our dear Bennet sisters. Congrats on a splendid debut, Frances Reynolds! I cannot wait to see more from you!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
THE PREMISE: Elizabeth and Jane remain in London with Mrs. Gardiner while she endures a difficult and troubling pregnancy. And while there, Jane makes the acquaintance of a titled gentleman – Henry Markham, the Earl of Lyfford – who shares some business dealings with her uncle. Jane lends him some assistance and a tentative friendship begins that also brings Lord Lyfford’s friend, Mr. Darcy (who is hoping to amend Elizabeth’s opinion of him), back into their lives. Will these encounters with two of London’s most eligible men lead to happy unions for the Bennet sisters?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Jane Bennet: LOVE that there is more to Jane in this story. I love that she has more to offer than a kind heart and serene disposition. This Jane has an amazing talent for tabulating numbers and figures in her head, she plays the harp, and she has opinions about politics and current events. I love the idea of Jane Bennet having all theses hidden depths that only some – those who care enough to look beyond her exterior – discover.
- Lord Lyfford: A fantastic new original character! I loved his storyline – how he is adapting to his new role as master of Lyfford Hall, how he has some siblings and relations under his care, and how he discovers that his estate profits are well below what they should be. I loved all the unique developments and depths of his character. He is a man of principals and responsibilities. I admired that he saw and valued Jane. He actually “sees” her. And he treats her with such understanding and respect. In addition, I love that he has a strong backbone and is ready to speak up against others or put people in their place. Well done with this new hero, Ms. Reynolds!
- Thwarting Wickham: Some new actions are taken to protect the women of Longbourn and Meryton, and I was happy to see Wickham no more! Lol! I really loved that this path was taken, and wish it could always be so. But alas, the Lydia/Wickham scandal does create some great Act III drama.
- Longbourn Changes: With some new revelations made, Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are spurred into some action. Finally! I loved seeing Mr. Bennet take a more active role in his family – he gives new strictures for his younger daughters, but also spends some time with them and tries to connect with their interests. And how great was it to see Mrs. Bennet act with sense and not indulge her youngest daughter’s every desire?!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Long Engagements and Falling Action: I absolutely adored the first half of the book where there was so many developments happening with our principal couples and their relationships. But it felt like there really wasn’t much going on in the second half of the book. There were a few comeuppances served to some antagonistic characters, but overall the engagement period was around 200+ pages and 100+ pages for both couples, and in that time there really wasn’t any new developments between them aside from meeting their future families, redecorating rooms in their future homes, and sharing dinners together. I would have loved more of the depth and conflicts explored in the first half of the book to continue in the second half.
RATING BREAKDOWN:
5 stars for Jane Bennet’s storyline
4 stars for Elizabeth Bennet’s storyline – Jane’s outshined hers just a bit
4 stars for the overall story arc and premise execution
* If I could give a book 4.25 stars, that’s where I’d land with this one
CONCLUSION:
More Than A Pretty Face is a delightful Pride and Prejudice variation that spotlights Jane Bennet, the hidden depths and talents people may possess, and the importance of not judging others only by what you see on the outside. This is a perfect tale for readers who are in search for a light, thoughtful, and inventive tale featuring our dear Bennet sisters. Congrats on a splendid debut, Frances Reynolds! I cannot wait to see more from you!
Austenesque Reviews
July 20, 2025
Step forward Jane Bennet
There are very few quality books in this field which allow Jane Bennet room to fly - thank you to Frances Reynolds for providing us with one such to savour.
This story has Jane and Elizabeth Bennet and their romances centre stage. It is a very low angst story relying on character development rather than action but that does not detract from the story in any way. It is after all what Jane Austen herself did.
The story is mostly set in London focussing firmly on Jane and Elizabeth and their beaux with occasional trips to Longbourn to drop in with the rest of the Bennets. There is also an important trip out of London for Jane.
As the title suggests this essentially a Jane-centric story but Elizabeth does get plenty of quality page time too. One of the things I found particularly pleasing was the chance to see Jane and Elizabeth spending time together and have a better understanding of why they enjoy each other’s company so much. This was the true delight of this story for me. As someone who normally finds Jane Bennet a very bland and uninteresting character I was charmed throughout.
There are a small number of typos and editing errors as well as a title error. I also felt that the ending dragged slightly. These are minor quibbles however and I heartily recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There are very few quality books in this field which allow Jane Bennet room to fly - thank you to Frances Reynolds for providing us with one such to savour.
This story has Jane and Elizabeth Bennet and their romances centre stage. It is a very low angst story relying on character development rather than action but that does not detract from the story in any way. It is after all what Jane Austen herself did.
The story is mostly set in London focussing firmly on Jane and Elizabeth and their beaux with occasional trips to Longbourn to drop in with the rest of the Bennets. There is also an important trip out of London for Jane.
As the title suggests this essentially a Jane-centric story but Elizabeth does get plenty of quality page time too. One of the things I found particularly pleasing was the chance to see Jane and Elizabeth spending time together and have a better understanding of why they enjoy each other’s company so much. This was the true delight of this story for me. As someone who normally finds Jane Bennet a very bland and uninteresting character I was charmed throughout.
There are a small number of typos and editing errors as well as a title error. I also felt that the ending dragged slightly. These are minor quibbles however and I heartily recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2022
By reading Pride and Prejudice, we are allowed to see Jane Bennet through the eyes of her partial and loving sister, Elizabeth, but what if Jane had more to offer than the obvious beauty and kindness always praised by her sister?
After Elizabeth has returned from Hunsford and contacted her about the events of the previous months, Jane is convinced that Mr. Bingley would not be the ideal man for her.
She stays in London to help take care of her aunt Gardiner with a complicated early pregnancy and her little cousins and one day, because of her great skills with numbers, she is called to help with the calculations regarding her uncle's business with Henry Markham, the earl of Lyfford.
It is he who will manage not to be blinded by Jane's beauty and who will fight to win her affections.
We have the opportunity to see an intelligent, sensible, mature Jane, who will no longer be deceived or manipulated by others, without losing the kindness described in the original work.
The experience of having another Bennett as the protagonist is great, showing that it is possible to have beauty in other different ways!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After Elizabeth has returned from Hunsford and contacted her about the events of the previous months, Jane is convinced that Mr. Bingley would not be the ideal man for her.
She stays in London to help take care of her aunt Gardiner with a complicated early pregnancy and her little cousins and one day, because of her great skills with numbers, she is called to help with the calculations regarding her uncle's business with Henry Markham, the earl of Lyfford.
It is he who will manage not to be blinded by Jane's beauty and who will fight to win her affections.
We have the opportunity to see an intelligent, sensible, mature Jane, who will no longer be deceived or manipulated by others, without losing the kindness described in the original work.
The experience of having another Bennett as the protagonist is great, showing that it is possible to have beauty in other different ways!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 1, 2023
An interesting concept
Original and entertaining tale that keeps the traits' personalities but gives us a closer look into a my intriguing facet of Jane. I loved the original characters in this story, and what an excellent idea to change the way of things at Longbourn! A most worthy book!
Original and entertaining tale that keeps the traits' personalities but gives us a closer look into a my intriguing facet of Jane. I loved the original characters in this story, and what an excellent idea to change the way of things at Longbourn! A most worthy book!
February 9, 2024
This is a nice book - as in every one is very nice in it.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first 50% of the read but once you get past the relative proposals, the story fell a bit flat for me. Very vanilla. This happens and then that happens. Lydia, Lady Cat, Caro all threw little temper tantrums. Rooms get decorated and the interior designs told in great detail - along with gowns and gifts. The 2nd half of the book is very - this happened and that happened with nothing really happening. (Maybe I've been reading too much angsty drama lately)
3&1/2 stars rounded to 4.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first 50% of the read but once you get past the relative proposals, the story fell a bit flat for me. Very vanilla. This happens and then that happens. Lydia, Lady Cat, Caro all threw little temper tantrums. Rooms get decorated and the interior designs told in great detail - along with gowns and gifts. The 2nd half of the book is very - this happened and that happened with nothing really happening. (Maybe I've been reading too much angsty drama lately)
3&1/2 stars rounded to 4.
April 20, 2024
3,5 Rounded up to 4
Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Jane Bennet is often described as a serene lady with a pretty face, and that is usually the length of the attention she gets, but what if she was indeed more than a pretty face? What if is she was a reserved but intelligent young lady with more charms then her physical attributes? Could that have influenced Mr. Bingley’s decision to abandon her? And would those attributes attract other eligible gentlemen? Would she be able to forget her previous suitor and fall in love with someone else?
More Than a Pretty Face starts out when Jane Bennet is visiting her family in London after the Netherfield party has left Meryton, and it focuses on Jane Bennet as the protagonist, creating a whole new story line that answers all my previous questions.
I really enjoyed the beginning of this book because it seemed like a secondary character variation focusing on Jane Bennet’s story, and therefore we got to know her better, we understood her personality and grasped all the facets that made her an interesting young lady. Her character and her arc story were very well developed and kept me interested, however, Elizabeth and Darcy’s romance, which was a secondary event, were not so interesting and took the focus away from Jane’s, giving the book a slower pace that was sometimes difficult to manage.
I also enjoyed Jane’s suitor, Henry Markham, because he is in many ways the opposite of Mr. Bingley, and his personality demonstrated that Jane deserved more than a fickle young man. His relationship with Jane, and the love he feels for her, seemed more real and strong than Mr. Bingley’s and I was cheering for them almost from the first moment I saw them interact.
Even though the romance between Jane Bennet and Henry Markham is an interesting take, after they get engaged, I felt the book dragged a little with not much going on after that, this slowed down the pace of the book even more and made it less appealing for me. I would have preferred if this book was shorter and more focused on the events developed in the first half of it.
I also had a quibble with the changes in the Bennet family because I felt everyone changed for the better only because they learned about Wickham’s true nature. To me it didn’t seem real for people to go through such a dramatic changed only because of that.
More Than a Pretty Face develops a very interesting and deep love story and is a good book for those who want to see Jane Bennet with someone else other than Bingley. I enjoyed the main storyline and would have enjoyed the book a little more if it weren’t for the filler paragraphs. However, I still believe this will appeal to readers who want to see more of Jane Bennet.
Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Jane Bennet is often described as a serene lady with a pretty face, and that is usually the length of the attention she gets, but what if she was indeed more than a pretty face? What if is she was a reserved but intelligent young lady with more charms then her physical attributes? Could that have influenced Mr. Bingley’s decision to abandon her? And would those attributes attract other eligible gentlemen? Would she be able to forget her previous suitor and fall in love with someone else?
More Than a Pretty Face starts out when Jane Bennet is visiting her family in London after the Netherfield party has left Meryton, and it focuses on Jane Bennet as the protagonist, creating a whole new story line that answers all my previous questions.
I really enjoyed the beginning of this book because it seemed like a secondary character variation focusing on Jane Bennet’s story, and therefore we got to know her better, we understood her personality and grasped all the facets that made her an interesting young lady. Her character and her arc story were very well developed and kept me interested, however, Elizabeth and Darcy’s romance, which was a secondary event, were not so interesting and took the focus away from Jane’s, giving the book a slower pace that was sometimes difficult to manage.
I also enjoyed Jane’s suitor, Henry Markham, because he is in many ways the opposite of Mr. Bingley, and his personality demonstrated that Jane deserved more than a fickle young man. His relationship with Jane, and the love he feels for her, seemed more real and strong than Mr. Bingley’s and I was cheering for them almost from the first moment I saw them interact.
Even though the romance between Jane Bennet and Henry Markham is an interesting take, after they get engaged, I felt the book dragged a little with not much going on after that, this slowed down the pace of the book even more and made it less appealing for me. I would have preferred if this book was shorter and more focused on the events developed in the first half of it.
I also had a quibble with the changes in the Bennet family because I felt everyone changed for the better only because they learned about Wickham’s true nature. To me it didn’t seem real for people to go through such a dramatic changed only because of that.
More Than a Pretty Face develops a very interesting and deep love story and is a good book for those who want to see Jane Bennet with someone else other than Bingley. I enjoyed the main storyline and would have enjoyed the book a little more if it weren’t for the filler paragraphs. However, I still believe this will appeal to readers who want to see more of Jane Bennet.
February 28, 2023
If you need a D&E book, this one's not for you, but that doesn't stop it from being a decent read. The star was lost because of the editing errors, which were above average, egregious for a traditionally published book, which usually have at least half a dozen editing passes before release, where indie books have one or two.
Here is my usual technical review:
- Plot is lively and complete. The premise is original and well carried out. It went on too long, though, as the story arc ended then the story continued.
- Flow is at a good pace, but bogged down in places with details and side stories that could have been cut by a better editor.
- Angst is mostly low, with a few places where it goes to moderate. In other words, this is a bit of a saccharine book for angst lovers.
- Third person multiple point of view is well executed with the exception of losing a good opportunity to go deeper by removal of filter words, which are telling style, not showing.
- Language is Regency, but too many Americanisms (6) mar the story as well as above average use of non-Regency words (9).
- There was an extra comma, the only noted punctuation error.
- Only one grammatical error was noted, a mistaken use of were for was.
- Regency correctness errors included a brother and sister dancing together (essentially this is like dating, against the rules of consanguinity: check out Austen's "Emma"), food courses were incorrectly described in a modern way, and there was a canon error in calling Mr. Gardiner other than names that began with Edw.
- A repeat of text took place at one point several pages later. Where was the editor?
- For a JAFF book, many readers would be disappointed to find that Darcy does not show up until Chapter 4 and the Elizabeth and Darcy romance is a secondary plot to Jane and Henry, who are the protagonists in this book. In each case, the course of the romance was believable.
- Scene setting may have gone overboard with detail and taken away from the flow of the story as noted above. However, there were some nice touches with Regency correctness.
- The cover is pretty and ideal for the plot, and it stands out from the polyester-blow-dried books that people seem to like to use these days. The well-balanced, attractive design says "buy me." What more could you want?
I enjoyed reading this book, even though I discovered it was not a D&E book. The author has a lot of potential for future books, but I made a mistake by buying her book as I don't typically buy from this publisher due to their ethics.
Disclaimer: I feel a little silly writing this disclaimer in this case since the publisher has rated this book. But here goes: I'm a JAFF author, and some might say this review is a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of the author and the reader both.
Obviously, this review was not purchased via Booksprout.
Here is my usual technical review:
- Plot is lively and complete. The premise is original and well carried out. It went on too long, though, as the story arc ended then the story continued.
- Flow is at a good pace, but bogged down in places with details and side stories that could have been cut by a better editor.
- Angst is mostly low, with a few places where it goes to moderate. In other words, this is a bit of a saccharine book for angst lovers.
- Third person multiple point of view is well executed with the exception of losing a good opportunity to go deeper by removal of filter words, which are telling style, not showing.
- Language is Regency, but too many Americanisms (6) mar the story as well as above average use of non-Regency words (9).
- There was an extra comma, the only noted punctuation error.
- Only one grammatical error was noted, a mistaken use of were for was.
- Regency correctness errors included a brother and sister dancing together (essentially this is like dating, against the rules of consanguinity: check out Austen's "Emma"), food courses were incorrectly described in a modern way, and there was a canon error in calling Mr. Gardiner other than names that began with Edw.
- A repeat of text took place at one point several pages later. Where was the editor?
- For a JAFF book, many readers would be disappointed to find that Darcy does not show up until Chapter 4 and the Elizabeth and Darcy romance is a secondary plot to Jane and Henry, who are the protagonists in this book. In each case, the course of the romance was believable.
- Scene setting may have gone overboard with detail and taken away from the flow of the story as noted above. However, there were some nice touches with Regency correctness.
- The cover is pretty and ideal for the plot, and it stands out from the polyester-blow-dried books that people seem to like to use these days. The well-balanced, attractive design says "buy me." What more could you want?
I enjoyed reading this book, even though I discovered it was not a D&E book. The author has a lot of potential for future books, but I made a mistake by buying her book as I don't typically buy from this publisher due to their ethics.
Disclaimer: I feel a little silly writing this disclaimer in this case since the publisher has rated this book. But here goes: I'm a JAFF author, and some might say this review is a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of the author and the reader both.
Obviously, this review was not purchased via Booksprout.
March 21, 2025
Status: Read March 18-21, 2025 via audible edition
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5)
My Library Notes:
More Than a Pretty Face
by Frances Reynolds, Stevie Zimmerman (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 9 pages
Published March 9, 2023 by Quills & Quartos Publishing (first published May 10, 2022)
ASIN: B0BXVCBPXH
[ giveaway winner ]
Love is not the simple thing that novels and poetry speak of. It is by turns subtle and overwhelming. It may slip silently into your heart, or strike like a bolt of lightning.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that Elizabeth Bennet is the wittiest lady in Hertfordshire, and her sister Jane is the most beautiful. Their other qualities, however, are less widely recognised, even by those who profess to love them.
Disappointed by Mr Bingley’s sudden departure, Jane escapes the tumult of Longbourn for the Gardiners’ house in London. Elizabeth, vexed by her own romantic debacle with Mr. Darcy, and in possession of distressing intelligence which could endanger their family and neighbors in Meryton, soon joins her there from Kent.
When a family crisis causes them to extend their stay in Cheapside, a new acquaintance—handsome and titled—brings the Bennet sisters to the attention of London society and returns them to the company of Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley. One man finds himself with a rival for his lady’s affections, while the other struggles to make amends for the mistakes of the past.
As Elizabeth questions her rejection of the master of Pemberley and Jane begins to open her heart, can the qualities that most matter—intelligence, integrity, humor, and kindness—be recognized by the men who truly love and respect them?
Listening Length: 8 hours and 24 minutes
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5)
My Library Notes:
More Than a Pretty Face
by Frances Reynolds, Stevie Zimmerman (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 9 pages
Published March 9, 2023 by Quills & Quartos Publishing (first published May 10, 2022)
ASIN: B0BXVCBPXH
[ giveaway winner ]
Love is not the simple thing that novels and poetry speak of. It is by turns subtle and overwhelming. It may slip silently into your heart, or strike like a bolt of lightning.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that Elizabeth Bennet is the wittiest lady in Hertfordshire, and her sister Jane is the most beautiful. Their other qualities, however, are less widely recognised, even by those who profess to love them.
Disappointed by Mr Bingley’s sudden departure, Jane escapes the tumult of Longbourn for the Gardiners’ house in London. Elizabeth, vexed by her own romantic debacle with Mr. Darcy, and in possession of distressing intelligence which could endanger their family and neighbors in Meryton, soon joins her there from Kent.
When a family crisis causes them to extend their stay in Cheapside, a new acquaintance—handsome and titled—brings the Bennet sisters to the attention of London society and returns them to the company of Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley. One man finds himself with a rival for his lady’s affections, while the other struggles to make amends for the mistakes of the past.
As Elizabeth questions her rejection of the master of Pemberley and Jane begins to open her heart, can the qualities that most matter—intelligence, integrity, humor, and kindness—be recognized by the men who truly love and respect them?
Listening Length: 8 hours and 24 minutes
December 27, 2022
This is a really good story which should have been a novella. Honestly, it didn't have much substance to fill these many pages especially after the two proposals. I can't believe I'm saying this, but after a point in the story, the most interesting portions involved Caroline and her comeuppance. I literally skimmed through the last third of the book so that I could finish it. I'm not blaming the author but this is not my cup of tea as I like a bit of angst or villainy to spice up my stories. This was too sweet and at times too bland for me. Also, I felt like Jane's character was somewhat transformed to become a watered down version of Lizzy to make her more interesting which is not fair to the original character. Many of the things (eg. the letters to Lydia and Caroline) doesn't fit the Jane we know who basically is the Jane at the beginning of the story as this story starts after Elizabeth's return from Kent. A really good editing out of the mundane details and descriptions which makes nearly a third or more of the book would've made it more interesting.
pride-prejudice-variations
July 6, 2022The author should be proud of this one!
This is a many-layered story of friendships, courtships and marriages. It is also a story of jealousy, spite and mean-spiritedness. It includes the verbal abuse dispensed from the lips of Caroline Bingley and Lady Catherine De Bourgh along with the beautiful set downs they received.
There is plenty of deviation from Jane Austen's masterpiece, well written and full of the unexpected. Try it -- you'll like it!
6
This is a many-layered story of friendships, courtships and marriages. It is also a story of jealousy, spite and mean-spiritedness. It includes the verbal abuse dispensed from the lips of Caroline Bingley and Lady Catherine De Bourgh along with the beautiful set downs they received.
There is plenty of deviation from Jane Austen's masterpiece, well written and full of the unexpected. Try it -- you'll like it!
6
December 1, 2022
A Pride and Prejudice variation where Elizabeth leaves the Hunsford Parsonage and joins Jane in London seemingly determined to reveal the character of Wickham to their father.
Can this have a change on the lives of the Bennets
An enjoyable story
Can this have a change on the lives of the Bennets
An enjoyable story
May 25, 2022
Occasionally a book comes along that I wish I could rate more than 5 stars. This is one of them. I'll add just one of the beautiful lines from the book.
"Love is not the simple thing that novels and poetry speak of. It is by turns subtle and overwhelming, it may slip silently into your heart or strike like a bolt of lightning."
"Love is not the simple thing that novels and poetry speak of. It is by turns subtle and overwhelming, it may slip silently into your heart or strike like a bolt of lightning."
June 12, 2022
This is primarily about JB and her love interest (Sorry no CB-JB). Then added FD and EB's love story after the failed Hunsford proposal, plus stories of the other characters.
Enjoyable love story and development of all the characters. Loved the verbal exchange between Elizabeth and Caroline as well as the turn of events that happened with the other characters, especially Lydia. (Wish there was more stated on what happened to Mary).
A must read and must have story for P & P fans.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Enjoyable love story and development of all the characters. Loved the verbal exchange between Elizabeth and Caroline as well as the turn of events that happened with the other characters, especially Lydia. (Wish there was more stated on what happened to Mary).
A must read and must have story for P & P fans.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 14, 2025
This is a feel-good variation, the likes of which are plenty. I'd say the plot is more original than usual and it has less offences than expected, and it truly feels good, more so than many other variations I've read in the "feel good" genre. But the lack of 'specialty' and my constant need to suspend disbelief amounts to 3 stars, which is a good rating for me - I liked it.
It starts after Hunsford. Mrs Gardiner is in the way and appreciates Jane & Elizabeth helping her in London in May and over the summer.
This is where the whole feel-good purpose of the novel kicks off.
Elizabeth tells Jane the whole truth about Wickham and accidentally slips information about Mr Darcy influence over Mr Bingley. Jane realizes she needs a man with a spine so her heart gets healed fast.
Elizabeth also comes back home for a short time to persuade her father to bring Wickham to justice and tells him about his licentious dealings with young ladies. Both Mr and Mrs Bennet become responsible parents, realize Lydia is a threat to family's reputation, send her to nursery and then to school known for re-educating difficult girls. Mr Bennet also takes more interest in education of Mary & Kitty, and they become more sensible.
A young Earl Lyfford (whose estate is close to Pemberley) visits Mr Gardiner's home to question him about wool prices, and sees Jane, who, as it turns out, is more than a pretty face as she's very good at numbers and also has a good knowledge of history. Their relationship is a large part of the novel. I'd say Jane is as important, if not more important than Elizabeth is in this novel
At certain point Darcy finds out about Elizabeth Bennet being in town from Lyfford, starts visiting her and introduces her to Georgiana.
Most of Lyfford and Darcy relations is accepting of the brides.
Besides history&math, Jane shows a previously unknown talent for harp and singing. In fact, both Elizabeth & Jane are Mary Sues as they're more knowledgeable and interesting to talk to than many men in Parliament (that's a quote!).
You see? It's just too sweet and too feel-good.
One interesting thing about the feel-good aspect was that the novel wasn't too cruel to Mr Bingley. Whenever Mr Bingley is forced to see Jane marry someone else, he's often shown as the largest invertebrate to ever exist. But this variation decides to continue the feel good characteristic and makes him face his errors. He doesn't have the best "Bingley grows a spine" arc I've read, but he invites his great Aunt (a lovely Mrs Bingley) to take control of Caroline.
However, what further intensified the feel-good aspect was that he himself understood Jane wasn't for him. He thought Jane was too intelligent, intimidating and serene (which is why he jumped at the opportunity when told that Jane didn't love him), when he needed someone more lively and not as smart - and that's just too much for me. Have some consequences!
Unfortunately for me, every P&P variation needs either a villain, a fool or someone who combines both. Usually that role is designated for Caroline or Lady Catherine. In this variation, the great Lady confronts Elizabeth, but it's nothing more than canon. Caroline is still a social climbing chit, but it's also not too much and out-of-characterI viscerally hate Catherine and Caroline being villains/fools, so it's good this variation didn't take that approach. Mama&Papa Bennet are neither villains or fools and are more responsible than their canon twins.
So the role of the biggest fool went to Lydia. I get that she's just a 15yo, but I thought it unrealistic how long it took for her to agree to see sense in some of her parents decisions. It's not even that she's angry, it's that here she continued to make a fool of herself in front of visitors and with a straight face said to Earl Lyfford "You should marry me! For I'm lively and my sister is not! I'm not joking - you will be bored with Jane in a month!"
The novel functions as a purely feel-good creation, for which you need to suspend disbelief a LOT.
Besides Elizabeth and Jane being such Mary Sues (which was the biggest contributor to my disbelief) and Bennets becoming the perfect parents... Why are so many people in London in the summer and early fall? The season doesn't really start until New Years and the stench horse manure in the stifling air would make London most unpleasant in summer. Why is everyone so happy Lyfford&Darcy are marrying country nobodies? Why are people travelling to Hertfordshire for wedding? (most of them are unbelievably in London, so those at least make sense, but there're people travelling from the north, too). Anne de Bourgh is healthier in London (with the London summer air?). And ofc women of 23 were treated like they were on the verge of spinsterhood (they weren't, it was around the avg age - which means plenty of women married older. Even Anne Elliot and Charlotte were considered on the verge of spinsterhood not only cuz of their age, but cuz of the lack of new gentlemen who could make them offers)
It's all just so AUGH. Plenty of historical inaccuracies and sometimes the language used wasn't correct either.
One thing I loved though was the relationship between the sisters (minus Lydia), and I thought their letters to each other were also great. And Mrs Collins was remembered, too, and I dearly love Charlotte.
It starts after Hunsford. Mrs Gardiner is in the way and appreciates Jane & Elizabeth helping her in London in May and over the summer.
This is where the whole feel-good purpose of the novel kicks off.
Elizabeth tells Jane the whole truth about Wickham and accidentally slips information about Mr Darcy influence over Mr Bingley. Jane realizes she needs a man with a spine so her heart gets healed fast.
Elizabeth also comes back home for a short time to persuade her father to bring Wickham to justice and tells him about his licentious dealings with young ladies. Both Mr and Mrs Bennet become responsible parents, realize Lydia is a threat to family's reputation, send her to nursery and then to school known for re-educating difficult girls. Mr Bennet also takes more interest in education of Mary & Kitty, and they become more sensible.
A young Earl Lyfford (whose estate is close to Pemberley) visits Mr Gardiner's home to question him about wool prices, and sees Jane, who, as it turns out, is more than a pretty face as she's very good at numbers and also has a good knowledge of history. Their relationship is a large part of the novel. I'd say Jane is as important, if not more important than Elizabeth is in this novel
At certain point Darcy finds out about Elizabeth Bennet being in town from Lyfford, starts visiting her and introduces her to Georgiana.
Most of Lyfford and Darcy relations is accepting of the brides.
Besides history&math, Jane shows a previously unknown talent for harp and singing. In fact, both Elizabeth & Jane are Mary Sues as they're more knowledgeable and interesting to talk to than many men in Parliament (that's a quote!).
You see? It's just too sweet and too feel-good.
One interesting thing about the feel-good aspect was that the novel wasn't too cruel to Mr Bingley. Whenever Mr Bingley is forced to see Jane marry someone else, he's often shown as the largest invertebrate to ever exist. But this variation decides to continue the feel good characteristic and makes him face his errors. He doesn't have the best "Bingley grows a spine" arc I've read, but he invites his great Aunt (a lovely Mrs Bingley) to take control of Caroline.
However, what further intensified the feel-good aspect was that he himself understood Jane wasn't for him. He thought Jane was too intelligent, intimidating and serene (which is why he jumped at the opportunity when told that Jane didn't love him), when he needed someone more lively and not as smart - and that's just too much for me. Have some consequences!
Unfortunately for me, every P&P variation needs either a villain, a fool or someone who combines both. Usually that role is designated for Caroline or Lady Catherine. In this variation, the great Lady confronts Elizabeth, but it's nothing more than canon. Caroline is still a social climbing chit, but it's also not too much and out-of-character
So the role of the biggest fool went to Lydia. I get that she's just a 15yo, but I thought it unrealistic how long it took for her to agree to see sense in some of her parents decisions. It's not even that she's angry, it's that here she continued to make a fool of herself in front of visitors and with a straight face said to Earl Lyfford "You should marry me! For I'm lively and my sister is not! I'm not joking - you will be bored with Jane in a month!"
The novel functions as a purely feel-good creation, for which you need to suspend disbelief a LOT.
Besides Elizabeth and Jane being such Mary Sues (which was the biggest contributor to my disbelief) and Bennets becoming the perfect parents... Why are so many people in London in the summer and early fall? The season doesn't really start until New Years and the stench horse manure in the stifling air would make London most unpleasant in summer. Why is everyone so happy Lyfford&Darcy are marrying country nobodies? Why are people travelling to Hertfordshire for wedding? (most of them are unbelievably in London, so those at least make sense, but there're people travelling from the north, too). Anne de Bourgh is healthier in London (with the London summer air?). And ofc women of 23 were treated like they were on the verge of spinsterhood (they weren't, it was around the avg age - which means plenty of women married older. Even Anne Elliot and Charlotte were considered on the verge of spinsterhood not only cuz of their age, but cuz of the lack of new gentlemen who could make them offers)
It's all just so AUGH. Plenty of historical inaccuracies and sometimes the language used wasn't correct either.
One thing I loved though was the relationship between the sisters (minus Lydia), and I thought their letters to each other were also great. And Mrs Collins was remembered, too, and I dearly love Charlotte.
September 3, 2024
I enjoyed this book. I read it last year, and I’ve just listened to the audiobook.
The first half of the book was wonderful. But once Jane and Elizabeth are engaged, nothing much happens. There’s almost no conflict. Instead, there’s just the usual shopping, meeting future relatives, attending dinners and the theater, etc. The attempt to add drama with Caroline, Lady Catherine, and Aunt Gardiner’s pregnancy fell flat because I never believed that anything bad would come of these situations.
The first half of the book was wonderful. But once Jane and Elizabeth are engaged, nothing much happens. There’s almost no conflict. Instead, there’s just the usual shopping, meeting future relatives, attending dinners and the theater, etc. The attempt to add drama with Caroline, Lady Catherine, and Aunt Gardiner’s pregnancy fell flat because I never believed that anything bad would come of these situations.
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