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Mr. Darcy Presents His Bride: A Sequel to Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice
In Pride & Prejudice, Jane Austen brought together one of the most beloved literary couples of all time—Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy. Now, Mr. Darcy Presents His Bride continues the story of these passion-filled newlyweds as they enter London’s glamorous high society.
This page-turning novel finds Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy entangled in the frivolity and ferocity of social intrigues. Although Elizabeth makes a powerful friend in the Marchioness of Englebury, the rivalry and jealousy among her ladyship’s prestigious clique threatens to destroy the success of her new marriage.
Written in the style of Jane Austen, full of humor and sardonic wit, Mr. Darcy Presents His Bride brings Regency society vividly to life and continues the romantic, sometimes tragic, stories of other popular Pride & Prejudice characters including Georgiana Darcy and Kitty Bennet.
This page-turning novel finds Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy entangled in the frivolity and ferocity of social intrigues. Although Elizabeth makes a powerful friend in the Marchioness of Englebury, the rivalry and jealousy among her ladyship’s prestigious clique threatens to destroy the success of her new marriage.
Written in the style of Jane Austen, full of humor and sardonic wit, Mr. Darcy Presents His Bride brings Regency society vividly to life and continues the romantic, sometimes tragic, stories of other popular Pride & Prejudice characters including Georgiana Darcy and Kitty Bennet.
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2004
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
October 22, 2007
Perhaps the best P&P sequel written to date, particularly for Jane Austen fans (as opposed to the no-less-worthy fans of the P&P mini-series or movies). This author captures the tone and style of Austen, and more importantly, the personalities of her characters. For those readers like me, who believe it unlikely that Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy would fall into perfect accord once that little misunderstanding was worked out, the marital disputes in this novel are refreshing and convincing. Here is an exchange from early on that reads like it could have been lifted from the original. [Context: Darcy tries to encourage a connection between Elizabeth and an influential acquaintance.]:
"I do not recognize you at this moment, Mr. Darcy. I had not thought you so eager to raise me in the opinion of the world."
"You inform me of my feelings, and I am to justify them, I presume."
The story follows the couple from their engagement through the first years of marriage, as Elizabeth tries to find her place in his circle of friends. Some of it rang a bit false (everyone falls in love w/ her), but the story provided a believable continuation of Austen's novel (even following up on the hints about Kitty's eventual improvement and courtship).
Well worth reading for Austen fans.
"I do not recognize you at this moment, Mr. Darcy. I had not thought you so eager to raise me in the opinion of the world."
"You inform me of my feelings, and I am to justify them, I presume."
The story follows the couple from their engagement through the first years of marriage, as Elizabeth tries to find her place in his circle of friends. Some of it rang a bit false (everyone falls in love w/ her), but the story provided a believable continuation of Austen's novel (even following up on the hints about Kitty's eventual improvement and courtship).
Well worth reading for Austen fans.
July 16, 2009
Wow -- an Austen spin-off that didn't make me want to die!? Well done, Mrs. Halstead! Actually, all foolishness aside, it's really a great story that honors the original style and content and characters of the original work. It's so rare to find of one of these types of books that actually does so. I think another reviewer put it really well -- most spinoffs approach it all with an overly modern sensibility.
Darcy and Elizabeth have become engaged and now they're about to be married. That's where we begin -- not quite where Austen left off. Then we get to see how the marriage settles. I feel like the title is appropriate -- everybody is waiting to see what Darcy's bride will be like. That means his servants, his friends in society, his enemies, and his relatives who objected to his engagement in the first place. It's interesting to see how Elizabeth enters into society, and how characters from the original change, or don't change, and to become invested in all of their concerns again. It's really well done, and hard to put down.
Darcy and Elizabeth have become engaged and now they're about to be married. That's where we begin -- not quite where Austen left off. Then we get to see how the marriage settles. I feel like the title is appropriate -- everybody is waiting to see what Darcy's bride will be like. That means his servants, his friends in society, his enemies, and his relatives who objected to his engagement in the first place. It's interesting to see how Elizabeth enters into society, and how characters from the original change, or don't change, and to become invested in all of their concerns again. It's really well done, and hard to put down.
May 19, 2016
This story begins right at the end of Jane Austen’s story, with Elizabeth already engaged to be married to Mr Darcy, and preparations for the wedding to be set. Mr Darcy Presents His Bride is an interesting take into the story that happens after Elizabeth becomes Mrs. Darcy, their presentation into society, the effects on not only the Bennet household but on the Darcy household as well.
What’s nice about the book is that it not only focuses on Fitzwiliam and Elizabeth Darcy’s lives, but also includes the continuing stories of Jane and Charles Bingley, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Anne de Bourgh, Georgiana Darcy, Kitty Bennet, Mary Bennet, and Lydia Wickham. It also includes other interesting new characters that the author puts in, in-dialogue with Austen’s original characters.
The story includes a quick look into London Society, and how Elizabeth is first looked upon by London society, with an inclusion of the beliefs of society as to the status and fortune of Elizabeth and her family. The author also does not fail to include the realities of married life, and presents fights that occur between Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam during their married life. The loveliness of this book lies in the fact that Elizabeth is very present in the lives of her sisters, Georgiana and Kitty, as they mature within the story. Also in this book, Elizabeth appears as very real and continues her dislike for her mother’s simple want of high society, by not being drawn into high society and doing her best to remain as real to herself as possible.
There are of course some things that I did not (personally) like in the story. There was (for me) a lack of dialogue within the story. There were parts of the story that passed too quickly and there was a definite lack of dialogue, though the author included letters-writing to quicken the passing of time within the story. Also, there were some parts of the story I believed to be too modern for such a time, which of course is not the fault of the author since writers of present society unconsciously put in modern thought to their writing. I also feel that some parts of story made Elizabeth too easily accepted by society, which could be contrary to the truth in reference to how real high society might actually accept outsiders.
Many of the “new characters” in the story were very interesting, but it felt as if the potentials of those characters weren’t utilized to the fullest, and most of them didn’t appear much throughout the story. Or at least, if not much, they seemed crucial to parts of the story but weren’t really wholly ingrained in the flow of the plot.
Otherwise, the story is a great perspective as to the events that happened after the Pride and Prejudice story. It has interesting characters, interesting dialogue, and an interesting flow of events. A very interesting read.
What’s nice about the book is that it not only focuses on Fitzwiliam and Elizabeth Darcy’s lives, but also includes the continuing stories of Jane and Charles Bingley, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Anne de Bourgh, Georgiana Darcy, Kitty Bennet, Mary Bennet, and Lydia Wickham. It also includes other interesting new characters that the author puts in, in-dialogue with Austen’s original characters.
The story includes a quick look into London Society, and how Elizabeth is first looked upon by London society, with an inclusion of the beliefs of society as to the status and fortune of Elizabeth and her family. The author also does not fail to include the realities of married life, and presents fights that occur between Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam during their married life. The loveliness of this book lies in the fact that Elizabeth is very present in the lives of her sisters, Georgiana and Kitty, as they mature within the story. Also in this book, Elizabeth appears as very real and continues her dislike for her mother’s simple want of high society, by not being drawn into high society and doing her best to remain as real to herself as possible.
There are of course some things that I did not (personally) like in the story. There was (for me) a lack of dialogue within the story. There were parts of the story that passed too quickly and there was a definite lack of dialogue, though the author included letters-writing to quicken the passing of time within the story. Also, there were some parts of the story I believed to be too modern for such a time, which of course is not the fault of the author since writers of present society unconsciously put in modern thought to their writing. I also feel that some parts of story made Elizabeth too easily accepted by society, which could be contrary to the truth in reference to how real high society might actually accept outsiders.
Many of the “new characters” in the story were very interesting, but it felt as if the potentials of those characters weren’t utilized to the fullest, and most of them didn’t appear much throughout the story. Or at least, if not much, they seemed crucial to parts of the story but weren’t really wholly ingrained in the flow of the plot.
Otherwise, the story is a great perspective as to the events that happened after the Pride and Prejudice story. It has interesting characters, interesting dialogue, and an interesting flow of events. A very interesting read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2012
Oh my goodness. Has Halstead ever done her Austen homework! The langugage, the characters, the events of the novel all unfolded so uncannily like Austen that I was mesmerized. This novel ruined all other P&P spoofs I've read since--none can compare. I loved this book. As a huge fan and student of Austen myself, I must recommend this book to all Austen fans.
What I particularly liked was how we see the marriage unfold--slowly, just as their courtship did. Elizabeth is a huge success with the ton, but she attracts some attentions that both she and Darcy do not want, nor care for. It becomes a serious point of argument between them, and you see both their pride and prejudice (I always thought each character had their equal dose in these failings) hinder them from really communicating about the problem and their feelings to one another! If only Elizabeth had said she loved Darcy! But only Elizabeth would not say those words to him. And Darcy...he's still a bit aloof, still proud and unmincing with words, but he does tell Elizabeth he loves her. I'm not sure I expected that from him, but it affirmed that knowledge at the end of P&P that Darcy is really a passionate, romantic man. Just really buttoned up too high in the shirt collar, which is what makes him so attractive to readers. But what fascinated me was how believeable their romance/marriage was. I could totally see Darcy and Elizabeth saying the things they did, valucing what they did and acting as they did in this novel. Wonderful, wonderful characterization.
I loved the liberalities that Halstead took with the characters of Kitty and Georgiana. Again, totally realistic. That Kitty should temper herself with Elizabeth's guidance, and indeed become something of another Elizabeth really spoke as to their upbringing, and how careless their parents had been in their care and education. But Georgiana was amazing--she grew into such strength and passion that I was blown away by the development of her character. We see her start out as a the sweet, shy girl she was in P&P and grow into a woman with a devoation so fierce to her family that it is really touching, and natural for her to do the things she does at the end.
Even the development of Lydia and Wickham fit the bill perfectly! Wickham gets what a villian like him deserves, and Lydia learns her lesson and gets a real happy ending. Halstead managed to do all of this without verging unrealistically from the story or from the values of Regency England put forth by Austen in her novels. An absolutely wonderful continuation of the Darcys and Bennets, a must read in my opinion.
What I particularly liked was how we see the marriage unfold--slowly, just as their courtship did. Elizabeth is a huge success with the ton, but she attracts some attentions that both she and Darcy do not want, nor care for. It becomes a serious point of argument between them, and you see both their pride and prejudice (I always thought each character had their equal dose in these failings) hinder them from really communicating about the problem and their feelings to one another! If only Elizabeth had said she loved Darcy! But only Elizabeth would not say those words to him. And Darcy...he's still a bit aloof, still proud and unmincing with words, but he does tell Elizabeth he loves her. I'm not sure I expected that from him, but it affirmed that knowledge at the end of P&P that Darcy is really a passionate, romantic man. Just really buttoned up too high in the shirt collar, which is what makes him so attractive to readers. But what fascinated me was how believeable their romance/marriage was. I could totally see Darcy and Elizabeth saying the things they did, valucing what they did and acting as they did in this novel. Wonderful, wonderful characterization.
I loved the liberalities that Halstead took with the characters of Kitty and Georgiana. Again, totally realistic. That Kitty should temper herself with Elizabeth's guidance, and indeed become something of another Elizabeth really spoke as to their upbringing, and how careless their parents had been in their care and education. But Georgiana was amazing--she grew into such strength and passion that I was blown away by the development of her character. We see her start out as a the sweet, shy girl she was in P&P and grow into a woman with a devoation so fierce to her family that it is really touching, and natural for her to do the things she does at the end.
Even the development of Lydia and Wickham fit the bill perfectly! Wickham gets what a villian like him deserves, and Lydia learns her lesson and gets a real happy ending. Halstead managed to do all of this without verging unrealistically from the story or from the values of Regency England put forth by Austen in her novels. An absolutely wonderful continuation of the Darcys and Bennets, a must read in my opinion.
October 23, 2017
This is my second attempt at reading a sequel to Pride and Prejudice and my conclusion is that I will never read another; such a waste of time and money.
August 28, 2009
Having read many Pride and Prejudice sequels, fan-fiction, etc; it is nice to come across one that takes a fresh new look at our beloved couple and tells the tale of their lives after marriage a little differently then the rest. I enjoyed this book a lot, the author kept consistency with the characters of Jane Austen, added new ones that intrigued us and captured our interest, and wrote in a couple marriages on the way.
What I liked most about this book is the character of Lizzy, she was strong, fearless, self-assured. All the things women these days aspire to be and she was doing it in the 1800's! Instead of portraying the Darcy's spending their time in Pemberley, living the country life-style, avoiding London and the "ton," she immerses them in it! What a refreshing change, I am sure that if I were Lizzy and Darcy I too would confine myself at Pemberley and be happy forever! But this author stress that Lizzy, with a lovely mind and quick with would find London and the "ton" "excessively diverting!" It was nice to see how Lizzy succeeded in her knew social status.
In addition, I enjoyed the new characters, and story-lines. I especially like the one about Anne de Bourgh, the author questions the fact that she had a weak constitution. Perhaps it was all Lady Catherine's doings, maybe Anne had the strength to be well and healthy. . .
What didn't thrill me so much in this book (and this is the reason I am giving it four stars instead of five) is the relationship between Lizzy and Darcy. Yes, it was good that she showed us that it wasn't a dreamy "happily ever after," and I do like the depiction of Darcy and Lizzy having some "rocky roads" to travel. However, it seemed that the story line about Lizzy and Darcy sometimes took the back seat to other characters story-lines. I think a sequel to Pride and Prejudice should have at its center Darcy and Elizabeth, aren't they who we care about the most? Also, I was unsatistfied with how she resolved a conflict between them, it seemed abrupt and could have been developed more.
Yes, she does not speak in the voice of Jane Austen, but who does? And why should we hold that against her? However, there are a few decisions she made that some Austen purists may find disagreeable like how the relationship between Jane and Elizabeth seems to be non-existent, or that Darcy would invite Caroline and the Hurst's to stay at Pemberley, or that Austen characters would shrug (a phrase she used a lot!) Nevertheless, there are some very humorous parts like what happens to the Wickham's, hearing Caroline's thoughts while she is at Pemberley, and of course Mr. Bennet's ready witty remarks.
I suggest this book to any avid Jane Austen reader that would like to see a different tale about Darcy and Elizabeth, but not many love-scenes. I am very glad I bought this book and I enjoyed reading it and look forward to more works by Ms. Halstead.
What I liked most about this book is the character of Lizzy, she was strong, fearless, self-assured. All the things women these days aspire to be and she was doing it in the 1800's! Instead of portraying the Darcy's spending their time in Pemberley, living the country life-style, avoiding London and the "ton," she immerses them in it! What a refreshing change, I am sure that if I were Lizzy and Darcy I too would confine myself at Pemberley and be happy forever! But this author stress that Lizzy, with a lovely mind and quick with would find London and the "ton" "excessively diverting!" It was nice to see how Lizzy succeeded in her knew social status.
In addition, I enjoyed the new characters, and story-lines. I especially like the one about Anne de Bourgh, the author questions the fact that she had a weak constitution. Perhaps it was all Lady Catherine's doings, maybe Anne had the strength to be well and healthy. . .
What didn't thrill me so much in this book (and this is the reason I am giving it four stars instead of five) is the relationship between Lizzy and Darcy. Yes, it was good that she showed us that it wasn't a dreamy "happily ever after," and I do like the depiction of Darcy and Lizzy having some "rocky roads" to travel. However, it seemed that the story line about Lizzy and Darcy sometimes took the back seat to other characters story-lines. I think a sequel to Pride and Prejudice should have at its center Darcy and Elizabeth, aren't they who we care about the most? Also, I was unsatistfied with how she resolved a conflict between them, it seemed abrupt and could have been developed more.
Yes, she does not speak in the voice of Jane Austen, but who does? And why should we hold that against her? However, there are a few decisions she made that some Austen purists may find disagreeable like how the relationship between Jane and Elizabeth seems to be non-existent, or that Darcy would invite Caroline and the Hurst's to stay at Pemberley, or that Austen characters would shrug (a phrase she used a lot!) Nevertheless, there are some very humorous parts like what happens to the Wickham's, hearing Caroline's thoughts while she is at Pemberley, and of course Mr. Bennet's ready witty remarks.
I suggest this book to any avid Jane Austen reader that would like to see a different tale about Darcy and Elizabeth, but not many love-scenes. I am very glad I bought this book and I enjoyed reading it and look forward to more works by Ms. Halstead.
January 5, 2021
Within the realm of Jane Austen spin-offs, sequels, and series--and truly, what a wide realm that is--this book left me feeling a multitude of emotions, ranging from sheepish and sceptical to immersed and entertained. As with all Jane Austen sequels, it is imperfect; this statement is merely factual, as I am in the (joyful! welcoming! delighted!) camp that solidly denies any Austen-esque follow-up a place on the pedestal with Austen herself (all hail Queen Jane).
However.
At every point that I sceptically felt the need to make any sort of a rebuttal--anything along the lines of "This seems out of character" or "This isn't in Austen's style", I continued. With surprising alacrity, no less.
The interpersonal conflict feels plausible for the characters and the world they inhabit. Unlike other sequels (Mr. Darcy Takes A Wife, I'm looking at you), MDPHB isn't any sexier than what Austen herself perhaps might have written (and hey, I'm all about The Sexy Ones as well, no judgment from me), had she decided to write about the marriage life instead of the pursuit/courtship phase. It flows nicely and features all of the favorite characters from P&P in addition to intriguing, plausible new ones. The teasing, stubborn quality of the Elizabeth/Darcy dynamic works nicely and evokes their pre-engagement relationship realistically.
In sum: is it the most glorious Regency-period piece I've ever read? No. Maybe in a different mood, on a different day, I would be more willing to take greater issue. But then again, I didn't think it would be, so my expectations were (somewhat surprisingly) met. I enjoyed it for the dose of escapism that it provided, and finished it with a lighthearted satisfaction that I would recommend to many another diehard JA fan.
However.
At every point that I sceptically felt the need to make any sort of a rebuttal--anything along the lines of "This seems out of character" or "This isn't in Austen's style", I continued. With surprising alacrity, no less.
The interpersonal conflict feels plausible for the characters and the world they inhabit. Unlike other sequels (Mr. Darcy Takes A Wife, I'm looking at you), MDPHB isn't any sexier than what Austen herself perhaps might have written (and hey, I'm all about The Sexy Ones as well, no judgment from me), had she decided to write about the marriage life instead of the pursuit/courtship phase. It flows nicely and features all of the favorite characters from P&P in addition to intriguing, plausible new ones. The teasing, stubborn quality of the Elizabeth/Darcy dynamic works nicely and evokes their pre-engagement relationship realistically.
In sum: is it the most glorious Regency-period piece I've ever read? No. Maybe in a different mood, on a different day, I would be more willing to take greater issue. But then again, I didn't think it would be, so my expectations were (somewhat surprisingly) met. I enjoyed it for the dose of escapism that it provided, and finished it with a lighthearted satisfaction that I would recommend to many another diehard JA fan.
March 23, 2015
I bought this book shortly after it was published in 2005 but since it was not available in the USA I bought it from a British publisher and paid more for shipping than for the book. The review I had read made me want it - that much.
The style of writing in this book is very different from that of other JAFF writers whose books I have read. Not that I am criticizing - it was just new for me.
The story line was mainly about Elizabeth's entrance into London society, at Darcy's insistence, and then how she conquered it with her wit and humor. One of society's lionesses takes Elizabeth under her wings (due to how delighted she was with Lizzy's fresh outlook and response to the ton). This, of course, is noticed by everyone, even Caroline Bingley. Furthermore, it is noted by several denizens of the Marchioness of Englebury's circle who then seek favor. This places demands on Elizabeth and, thus on Darcy. The book also has secondary stories about maneuvering for position through deaths and favors bestowed by disgruntled parents/aunts, etc. At times I had to remind myself who was who as names changed with titles or bequests being bestowed. And we have romance blooming, but not without trials, for Georgiana, Kitty, Caroline, Col. Fitzwilliam and other new characters.
Napoleon escapes Elba with an effect on events and family awaits news from the front: and not just about the war outcome.
Darcy's and Elizabeth's interaction is limited and at times, acerbic, surprisingly. Darcy continues to display discomfort in large crowds and disdain towards the general public. As Elizabeth gains a footing in society this attitude is off putting to her new acquaintances as well as to Lizzy, at times. Has ODC fallen out of love? Is the spark and wit that so enchanted Darcy now causing him to repudiate his marriage?
The ending was a bit confusing for me and I had to go back and re-read the last chapter or two to understand who ended up with who in one of our other couples. The Epilogue was very satisfying as it does tie up some loose ends.
The style of writing in this book is very different from that of other JAFF writers whose books I have read. Not that I am criticizing - it was just new for me.
The story line was mainly about Elizabeth's entrance into London society, at Darcy's insistence, and then how she conquered it with her wit and humor. One of society's lionesses takes Elizabeth under her wings (due to how delighted she was with Lizzy's fresh outlook and response to the ton). This, of course, is noticed by everyone, even Caroline Bingley. Furthermore, it is noted by several denizens of the Marchioness of Englebury's circle who then seek favor. This places demands on Elizabeth and, thus on Darcy. The book also has secondary stories about maneuvering for position through deaths and favors bestowed by disgruntled parents/aunts, etc. At times I had to remind myself who was who as names changed with titles or bequests being bestowed. And we have romance blooming, but not without trials, for Georgiana, Kitty, Caroline, Col. Fitzwilliam and other new characters.
Napoleon escapes Elba with an effect on events and family awaits news from the front: and not just about the war outcome.
Darcy's and Elizabeth's interaction is limited and at times, acerbic, surprisingly. Darcy continues to display discomfort in large crowds and disdain towards the general public. As Elizabeth gains a footing in society this attitude is off putting to her new acquaintances as well as to Lizzy, at times. Has ODC fallen out of love? Is the spark and wit that so enchanted Darcy now causing him to repudiate his marriage?
The ending was a bit confusing for me and I had to go back and re-read the last chapter or two to understand who ended up with who in one of our other couples. The Epilogue was very satisfying as it does tie up some loose ends.
March 20, 2017
This book was absolutely AMAZING. It was so similar to the writing of Austen herself that I swore she herself wrote it. So many times I lost track of time when reading this because I was so invested in the characters and relationships, so wrapped up in the misunderstandings of Darcy and Elizabeth. And a death I did not expect... I recommend this to any Jane Austen or Pride and Prejudice fan, as this sequel does the original justice. 5 stars. All the way.
July 27, 2018
3.5 rounded to 4.
There was parts that felt boring and a couple times there were actions that seemed out of character to me.
She was good in writing in Jane Austen's style.
There was parts that felt boring and a couple times there were actions that seemed out of character to me.
She was good in writing in Jane Austen's style.
April 27, 2024
4.5* this was an interesting meandering follow up story looking at the lived of many characters that share encounters with Darcy and Elizabeth. Interesting and very appropriate for this time period, it didn’t really grab my attention as much as I had hoped. It was enjoyable, hearing more of the everyday details from the perspectives of so many characters yet so much of it is minutia that doesn’t go anywhere. My degree of pleasure was more 3.5*’s with the most enjoyment evident at the end. Seeing an every serious Darcy and popular witty Elizabeth experience challenges in life and love was a pleasure to read.
December 13, 2017
Very well done by Australian writer. Not the depth and length of Jane Austen (of course!), but very good job of capturing characters, dialogue, dry wit and plot twists. Sweet fairy tale ending though some sadness along the way.
August 18, 2018
A good version of an update to Pride and Prejudice.
In someways I wanted it to have a bit more if a Austen feel to it. I don’t think she quite captured the Bennet girls well.
In someways I wanted it to have a bit more if a Austen feel to it. I don’t think she quite captured the Bennet girls well.
April 3, 2025
Очень мило, что можно подглядеть за жизнью героев после окончания романа. Но мне трудно справиться с ощущением, что это не по-настоящему(
April 2, 2025
A wonderful sequel written in a true Austen-esque voice. From all of us Darcy lovers, thank you!
January 23, 2011
A sequel to Pride and Prejudice which begins with Elizabeth and Darcy's wedding preparations. The title really says it all, as it charts the introduction of the new Mrs Darcy into London society and the continuation of events for the other main characters.
It begins with Lady Catherine de Bourgh writing to Lizzy to let her know how she refuses to acknowledge the marriage and will do all she can to make her presentation to the Ton as difficult as possible. Darcy also receives a similar missive from another member family and so despite their love, they are in for a potentially difficult time.
However, the charming Mrs Darcy manages to dazzle almost everyone with her wit and is quickly on friendly terms with the very best people in society. This creates tension between her and Darcy for not only is she in great demand from people he doesn't necessarily approve of, she becomes the unwitting muse of a inappropriately devoted playwright. The ongoing tensions within the marriage seem to bring out the flaws in Darcy that Lizzy initially despised.
I found this an interesting read and felt that it was one of the better attempts to continue P&P, certainly in terms of not making it a "Mr Darcy constantly beds his new wife" book, which many of the sequels are. I'm not being over critical of those sequels, I've read many and found them good fun, but this one at least tries to fit with morality of the original.
However, although I enjoyed it whilst reading it, on reflection, I'm not sure about where the story went. I liked the continuation of the sister's stories, particularly Kitty, who always seemed overshadowed by Lydia and the self righteous Mary. Kitty gets her chance (however briefly) to sparkle and become a more rounded character. Sadly, Jane and Bingley are much reduced and less interesting and although Wickham gets his comeuppance, I thought Lydia got off far too lightly and deserved a messy and undignified end! (But I'm nasty like that!) Mrs Bennet remains an embarrassing trial, but again is sadly diminished in creating cringing horror for her daughters. Other new characters are introduced but I felt that there were too many to find any depth and not particularly useful in themeselves to add to the story except as being a way of making the basic plot work.
Now my real grumble, I actually started to find myself annoyed by Elizabeth at points. She became too clever, witty and attractive for her own good and I found myself disliking how she almost has her head turned. Although she retains her slightly cynical air, it was really irritating that everyone loved her and was completely unrealistic in terms of the closed shop that Regency era society was. Darcy's reaction is to be jealous of her new friendships and to resort to his previous overly proud and withdrawn behaviour which is understandable but goes against how the events and growing understanding of each other in the original novel had changed them and made them better people.
Overall, it's an enjoyable, light read but I was disappointed in how some of my favourite characters develop.
It begins with Lady Catherine de Bourgh writing to Lizzy to let her know how she refuses to acknowledge the marriage and will do all she can to make her presentation to the Ton as difficult as possible. Darcy also receives a similar missive from another member family and so despite their love, they are in for a potentially difficult time.
However, the charming Mrs Darcy manages to dazzle almost everyone with her wit and is quickly on friendly terms with the very best people in society. This creates tension between her and Darcy for not only is she in great demand from people he doesn't necessarily approve of, she becomes the unwitting muse of a inappropriately devoted playwright. The ongoing tensions within the marriage seem to bring out the flaws in Darcy that Lizzy initially despised.
I found this an interesting read and felt that it was one of the better attempts to continue P&P, certainly in terms of not making it a "Mr Darcy constantly beds his new wife" book, which many of the sequels are. I'm not being over critical of those sequels, I've read many and found them good fun, but this one at least tries to fit with morality of the original.
However, although I enjoyed it whilst reading it, on reflection, I'm not sure about where the story went. I liked the continuation of the sister's stories, particularly Kitty, who always seemed overshadowed by Lydia and the self righteous Mary. Kitty gets her chance (however briefly) to sparkle and become a more rounded character. Sadly, Jane and Bingley are much reduced and less interesting and although Wickham gets his comeuppance, I thought Lydia got off far too lightly and deserved a messy and undignified end! (But I'm nasty like that!) Mrs Bennet remains an embarrassing trial, but again is sadly diminished in creating cringing horror for her daughters. Other new characters are introduced but I felt that there were too many to find any depth and not particularly useful in themeselves to add to the story except as being a way of making the basic plot work.
Now my real grumble, I actually started to find myself annoyed by Elizabeth at points. She became too clever, witty and attractive for her own good and I found myself disliking how she almost has her head turned. Although she retains her slightly cynical air, it was really irritating that everyone loved her and was completely unrealistic in terms of the closed shop that Regency era society was. Darcy's reaction is to be jealous of her new friendships and to resort to his previous overly proud and withdrawn behaviour which is understandable but goes against how the events and growing understanding of each other in the original novel had changed them and made them better people.
Overall, it's an enjoyable, light read but I was disappointed in how some of my favourite characters develop.
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May 7, 2013I'm a sucker for the faux Austen, and I love to hate the bad ones more than I enjoy reading the okay ones. This one was okay. (Like aircraft landing on carriers, no faux Austen is ever rated higher than "okay.") The author got details of Regency life correct (no one said "okay," as happened in another faux Austen) as far as non-expert I noticed.
Its faults lie in its very form. A faux Austen cannot have the dramatic tension necessary to a successful novel because the characters we love best resolved their conflict in the original. The reader wants to spend more time with Elizabeth and Darcy but any new conflict -- infertility, jealousy, awkwardness, Pemberley blown up in a new Gunpowder plot or because an unhinged caretaker didn't release steam from the boilers* -- seems farfetched or melodramatic or disloyal. The reader might wish to see Kitty, Mary, Georgiana, Anne, or even Caroline suitably married or at least happy, but the author must short-shrift either them (the unmarried sources of suitable Austenesque tension) or Elizabeth and Darcy, about whom the reader cares most. Also, it's difficult to balance Charlotte's prudence about matrimony with the contemporary reader's desire for better-rounded heroines.
The least I expect from a faux Austen is textual accuracy. Mary is the third sister, not the fourth. Darcy's first name is Fitzwilliam. Kent and Derbyshire are more than a morning's travel distant. Halstead did nothing so egregious, but she took characters in directions I would not have. She depicts Charlotte as not delighting in the Darcy match, which is textually false, after which the Collinses drop from view with no mention of the olive branch, and I do not think either Charlotte or Elizabeth would so blithely drop the friendship (though it would alter). The Gardiners do not appear on scene at all and are mentioned only in passing. Anne de Bourgh not only lives, she marries and manages not to die in childbed. Lady Catherine's machinations I ignored.
Mention of "fish pie" made me smile -- a nod to _A Room with a View_? Another reference maybe wasn't textually likely -- Caroline Bingley is not the sort to go to Brussels as the English mass against Napoleon -- but I did like the parallel thus drawn between her and Becky Sharp, whom she certainly resembles. Halstead pasted on a epilogue so the reader gets to see Mr. Bennet with his many grandchildren, which is nice, but I guess the Deathly Hallows epilogue kindly** ruined the x-years-later epilogue for me (though for Wickham to die, insane with syphilis, in a madhouse is satisfying).
* _The Shining_. The Kubrick film ending is much more satisfying, in that the hotel will live to kill again, as well as less far-fetched.
** I just reread _All the Pretty Horses_.
Its faults lie in its very form. A faux Austen cannot have the dramatic tension necessary to a successful novel because the characters we love best resolved their conflict in the original. The reader wants to spend more time with Elizabeth and Darcy but any new conflict -- infertility, jealousy, awkwardness, Pemberley blown up in a new Gunpowder plot or because an unhinged caretaker didn't release steam from the boilers* -- seems farfetched or melodramatic or disloyal. The reader might wish to see Kitty, Mary, Georgiana, Anne, or even Caroline suitably married or at least happy, but the author must short-shrift either them (the unmarried sources of suitable Austenesque tension) or Elizabeth and Darcy, about whom the reader cares most. Also, it's difficult to balance Charlotte's prudence about matrimony with the contemporary reader's desire for better-rounded heroines.
The least I expect from a faux Austen is textual accuracy. Mary is the third sister, not the fourth. Darcy's first name is Fitzwilliam. Kent and Derbyshire are more than a morning's travel distant. Halstead did nothing so egregious, but she took characters in directions I would not have. She depicts Charlotte as not delighting in the Darcy match, which is textually false, after which the Collinses drop from view with no mention of the olive branch, and I do not think either Charlotte or Elizabeth would so blithely drop the friendship (though it would alter). The Gardiners do not appear on scene at all and are mentioned only in passing. Anne de Bourgh not only lives, she marries and manages not to die in childbed. Lady Catherine's machinations I ignored.
Mention of "fish pie" made me smile -- a nod to _A Room with a View_? Another reference maybe wasn't textually likely -- Caroline Bingley is not the sort to go to Brussels as the English mass against Napoleon -- but I did like the parallel thus drawn between her and Becky Sharp, whom she certainly resembles. Halstead pasted on a epilogue so the reader gets to see Mr. Bennet with his many grandchildren, which is nice, but I guess the Deathly Hallows epilogue kindly** ruined the x-years-later epilogue for me (though for Wickham to die, insane with syphilis, in a madhouse is satisfying).
* _The Shining_. The Kubrick film ending is much more satisfying, in that the hotel will live to kill again, as well as less far-fetched.
** I just reread _All the Pretty Horses_.
May 4, 2015
I bought this book shortly after it was published in 2005 but since it was not available in the USA I bought it from a British publisher and paid more for shipping than for the book. The review I had read made me want it - that much.
The style of writing in this book is very different from that of other JAFF writers whose books I have read. Not that I am criticizing - it was just new for me.
The story line was mainly about Elizabeth's entrance into London society, at Darcy's insistence, and then how she conquered it with her wit and humor. One of society's lionesses takes Elizabeth under her wings (due to how delighted she was with Lizzy's fresh outlook and response to the ton). This, of course, is noticed by everyone, even Caroline Bingley. Furthermore, it is noted by several denizens of the Marchioness of Englebury's circle who then seek favor. This places demands on Elizabeth and, thus on Darcy. The book also has secondary stories about maneuvering for position through deaths and favors bestowed by disgruntled parents/aunts, etc. At times I had to remind myself who was who as names changed with titles or bequests being bestowed. And we have romance blooming, but not without trials, for Georgiana, Kitty, Caroline, Col. Fitzwilliam and other new characters.
Napoleon escapes Elba with an effect on events and family awaits news from the front: and not just about the war outcome.
Darcy's and Elizabeth's interaction is limited and at times, acerbic, surprisingly. Darcy continues to display discomfort in large crowds and disdain towards the general public. As Elizabeth gains a footing in society this attitude is off putting to her new acquaintances as well as to Lizzy, at times. Has ODC fallen out of love? Is the spark and wit that so enchanted Darcy now causing him to repudiate his marriage?
The ending was a bit confusing for me and I had to go back and re-read the last chapter or two to understand who ended up with who in one of our other couples. The Epilogue was very satisfying as it does tie up some loose ends.
The style of writing in this book is very different from that of other JAFF writers whose books I have read. Not that I am criticizing - it was just new for me.
The story line was mainly about Elizabeth's entrance into London society, at Darcy's insistence, and then how she conquered it with her wit and humor. One of society's lionesses takes Elizabeth under her wings (due to how delighted she was with Lizzy's fresh outlook and response to the ton). This, of course, is noticed by everyone, even Caroline Bingley. Furthermore, it is noted by several denizens of the Marchioness of Englebury's circle who then seek favor. This places demands on Elizabeth and, thus on Darcy. The book also has secondary stories about maneuvering for position through deaths and favors bestowed by disgruntled parents/aunts, etc. At times I had to remind myself who was who as names changed with titles or bequests being bestowed. And we have romance blooming, but not without trials, for Georgiana, Kitty, Caroline, Col. Fitzwilliam and other new characters.
Napoleon escapes Elba with an effect on events and family awaits news from the front: and not just about the war outcome.
Darcy's and Elizabeth's interaction is limited and at times, acerbic, surprisingly. Darcy continues to display discomfort in large crowds and disdain towards the general public. As Elizabeth gains a footing in society this attitude is off putting to her new acquaintances as well as to Lizzy, at times. Has ODC fallen out of love? Is the spark and wit that so enchanted Darcy now causing him to repudiate his marriage?
The ending was a bit confusing for me and I had to go back and re-read the last chapter or two to understand who ended up with who in one of our other couples. The Epilogue was very satisfying as it does tie up some loose ends.
March 21, 2015
I've read a lot of P&P sequels. An unhealthy amount of P&P sequels. This was one of the best. There's two main issues I see in most of the sequels I've read: a) they're overly modernized or Americanized or b) they are what I so indelicately call "Darcy porn" (looking at you, Berdoll). This book artfully and masterfully avoids both of those pitfalls. The language is believably Austenesque, the culture and customs show a substantial amount of research, and while our wonderful lead couple clearly consummates their relationship (as married people are wont to do) it is handled with a delicacy that would save Austen herself from blushing. I enjoyed that their marriage is not simply gushing platitudes: they have honest, real world issues in their first years together that makes their success as an unlikely couple all the more believable. Finally, the lives of all the other characters are wrapped up with a nice, but sometimes not entirely pleasant, bow. We are introduced to some great additional characters from Halstead's own head that would perfectly fit in any Austen novel (although I think she would scoff at the flagrancy or Glover and the Whittakers), and they fit seamlessly into the fates of all the other characters we're so familiar with.
This really was pretty fantastic. Some of the language was a little awkward/ambiguous and there was a bit too much telling instead of showing, but those are some pretty minor flaws. I'm tempted to give this five stars. I think I will.
This really was pretty fantastic. Some of the language was a little awkward/ambiguous and there was a bit too much telling instead of showing, but those are some pretty minor flaws. I'm tempted to give this five stars. I think I will.
October 20, 2009
I was surprised by this book. I've been reading more Jane Austen lately and wanted more, so I decided to try some sequels. Halstead follows Jane Austen's style fairly well. She added in comments from servants, which Austen never did. I liked that. I liked hearing their perspective at the beginning, but they suddenly turned mute after the first third of the book which was disappointing. Another thing Austen never included, but Halstead does, are conversations by married couples in their bedrooms/beds. I was a little surprised because I expected to follow Austen's style more closely, but it was well done. The bedroom scenes were very appropriate and clean as well, which I appreciated. (I only wanted to know so much more about Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy.)
I liked the descriptions and additional characters in the Darcy's London visits. It is fun to see how Elizabeth fits into the high society of her husbands world. Great storyline and very well written. The progression of the characters was fabulous. They stayed true to the original, Pride and Prejudice, while growing and helping me to get to know them better. I love to see what happens to characters I like.
I was very impressed and recommend the book. Halstead isn't quite a Jane Austen, but this one is well worth reading.
I liked the descriptions and additional characters in the Darcy's London visits. It is fun to see how Elizabeth fits into the high society of her husbands world. Great storyline and very well written. The progression of the characters was fabulous. They stayed true to the original, Pride and Prejudice, while growing and helping me to get to know them better. I love to see what happens to characters I like.
I was very impressed and recommend the book. Halstead isn't quite a Jane Austen, but this one is well worth reading.
November 27, 2013
This book, as a sequel to P&P, was decent. I have extensively read many P&P sequels, spin-offs, and fan fictions, and this one was, honestly, different from most. It followed Mrs. Darcy's emergence into London society, her reception by those warm and cold. This is an aspect that I appreciated. It approached a sense of realism that is generally not present in P&P fan fiction (the norm being the Darcy's honeymoon for years secluded in Pemberley).
However, I didn't appreciate the sources of tension that spurred most of the disputes and quarrels between the couple. I felt that Darcy was often portrayed in his pre-metamorphosis manner of coolness and aloofness, both traits he is supposed to have gotten under better regulation at the conclusion of P&P. Elizabeth was often bordering rude with her "witty" comments, and even more often, unfeeling in her "jests" with Darcy. This, too, was something I felt to be better resolved, or at least something her character would actively try to avoid, at the conclusion of P&P.
Overall, both good and bad choices were made, at least in my opinion. Does the good make the bad worth reading? Probably. Are the bad parts worth ignoring? Yes, if you'd prefer to not find yourself overly frustrated.
However, I didn't appreciate the sources of tension that spurred most of the disputes and quarrels between the couple. I felt that Darcy was often portrayed in his pre-metamorphosis manner of coolness and aloofness, both traits he is supposed to have gotten under better regulation at the conclusion of P&P. Elizabeth was often bordering rude with her "witty" comments, and even more often, unfeeling in her "jests" with Darcy. This, too, was something I felt to be better resolved, or at least something her character would actively try to avoid, at the conclusion of P&P.
Overall, both good and bad choices were made, at least in my opinion. Does the good make the bad worth reading? Probably. Are the bad parts worth ignoring? Yes, if you'd prefer to not find yourself overly frustrated.
February 28, 2012
True to Jane Austen's writing style and dignity in subject matter this book takes us down a continuation of Pride and Prejudice. I thought it was a very realistic continuation as Elizabeth and Darcy are not going to agree on everything as they both have strong personalities. I liked reading about their disagreements - it was realistic but you could just see the love between them as you read their conversation. Misunderstands will continue between the two but its how they resolve it that is half the fun! I did though find the novel a bit sad... SPOILERS ALERT... Lizzy has to deal with a miscarriage early on in their marriage while 2 of her sisters bear children easily and you learn a bit about Darcy's feelings toward the subject. Lizzy also loses a sister in death (won't tell you which one) which I found sad. The epiloge was an interesting glimpse into their future - mostly happy apart from one other death in the family and it left me feeling sad even though Darcy and Lizzy are HAPPY together!
December 16, 2014
One of the wonderful things about Jane Austen is how much her writing shows. She doesn't need to tell the reader exactly what is going on in each character's head - she demonstrates it by their actions, their facial expressions, what they don't say. To this end, "Mr. Darcy Presents His Bride" was disappointing. Although the writing isn't bad, per se (damning with faint praise!), the author relies far too much on the inner thoughts of each character. Perhaps, had she stuck to one or two points of view, I would have liked the book more; as it was, the head-hopping made my own head spin and the scenes felt more like choppy vignettes than a fluid story.
The author does have strengths, and the book wasn't all bad. However, I can't say that this was a particularly compelling "sequel".
The author does have strengths, and the book wasn't all bad. However, I can't say that this was a particularly compelling "sequel".
September 17, 2020
Book Review: ⭐️⭐️/5.
I believe that all fans of Pride & Prejudice have an idea and maybe even a mental script of how Elizabeth & Darcy live happily ever after.
In my own mind, Elizabeth happily moves into Pemberley and spends weeks exploring a room at a time. She has about ten children and loves to travel with Jane. Wickham is killed in a tragic training accident and Lydia moves on to the next fool. Mary decides to convert and become a nun. Kitty falls in love with a farmer and becomes an expert in apples.
This book....wasn’t that. It was choppy and jumped from perspective to perspective until you never knew who was talking or even thinking a thought.
A few people are even killed off (one deserved it.)
I’ll stick with the version in my head.
I believe that all fans of Pride & Prejudice have an idea and maybe even a mental script of how Elizabeth & Darcy live happily ever after.
In my own mind, Elizabeth happily moves into Pemberley and spends weeks exploring a room at a time. She has about ten children and loves to travel with Jane. Wickham is killed in a tragic training accident and Lydia moves on to the next fool. Mary decides to convert and become a nun. Kitty falls in love with a farmer and becomes an expert in apples.
This book....wasn’t that. It was choppy and jumped from perspective to perspective until you never knew who was talking or even thinking a thought.
A few people are even killed off (one deserved it.)
I’ll stick with the version in my head.
February 13, 2008
a sequel to pride and prejudice finally! elizabeth and fitzwilliam are married and introduced into society. I was skeptical at first...."no one could do pride and prejudcie like jane austen!" but alas, it's almost as if Helen Halstead channeled her from beyond the grave. The writing style and the wit are so similar. If you love Pride and Prejudice i can almost guarantee that you will enjoy this book.
March 6, 2016
I've read several "sequels" to Pride and Prejudice and this is probably my favorite. The actions and attitudes of the characters were most in keeping with the way that I viewed them in Jane Austen's original work. The story was interesting and fun. The only complaint I have is that the author introduced so many new characters into Elizabeth Darcy's new married life that I occasionally had difficulty remembering who was who. If you enjoyed the original, I'd recommend this book.
March 2, 2009
I started this book and quickly decided I rather not read it. Someone tells Darcy he could of had Elizabeth without having to marry her. I just can't imagine Jane Austen implying such a thing about Elizabeth. It seemed like it was going to be lots of contention about the marriage from different sources. Not a fun read.
May 25, 2007
I really loved this one. I've always been curious to what happened to Darcy and Elizabeth after the wedding. Quick and easy to read, fun characters and interesting storyline.
January 24, 2008
Not awful, but pretty boring. Whole cast of new characters, and little happens of importance.
July 8, 2016
My impression of this book is best stated in a quote by my friend Allie: Anyone who attempts to reproduce Jane Austen is doomed to failure.
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