Charity Envieth Not

George Knightley, Esquire #1

by Barbara Cornthwaite

George Knightley is the owner of a considerable estate, a landlord, a magistrate, and a bachelor-a state that his brother John is perpetually prodding him to change. Thankfully, there is no one remotely suitable in his entire circle of acquaintance...or so he thinks. An unwanted interloper, a few romantic mishaps amongst his friends, and the dawning realization that Emma Woodhouse is no longer a child might just change everything.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Historical, Regency, Ebooks, British Literature

260 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 7, 2009

About the author

Barbara Cornthwaite lives in the middle of Ireland with her husband and children. She taught college English before "retiring" to do something she loves far more; her days are now filled with homeschooling, trying to keep the house tidy (a losing battle), and trying to stay warm in the damp Irish climate (also a losing battle). She is surrounded by medieval castles, picturesque flocks of sheep, and ancient stone monuments. These things are unappreciated by her six
children, who are more impressed by traffic jams, skyscrapers, and hot weather.

Reviews

[Kelly · Rating 2 out of 5]

Alas, once more, my dreams of Austen grandeur were not realized! I might have known. It's my own fault, I suppose! They keep doin' me wrong, and I keep coming back for more. But... but.. they just hit so hard because they love Austen so much! They just... do it wrong! They will learn! One day!

No but seriously, this book wasn't that bad. It was fine. It falls into the less offensive of the two major groups of Austen sequels. The first group is the books that think the major thing that Jane didn't deal with was sex and clearly our experience will be enhanced by knowing that Darcy spent the next several years sexin' up Elizabeth on every piece of antique furniture in his house and perhaps outside too! Next to the pond with the wet shirt! Which he wears all the time now in a symbol of his unbridled passion. Because that's what that character would do! And totally what we should want them to do!

No, this book fell into the second category. These books tend to believe that the good thing about Jane Austen novels is that they are Clean, and Moral and Upright, with no Bad Language about Inappropriate Things such as you find all over novels written by Kids Today with their hair and their rock music. These sorts of books think that Austen's novels are morality tales that exalt the virtues of the simple, Christian life, where people do the Right Thing. I mean.. it's not offensive. It's just... not correct (have you people met Miss Bates? Or Mrs. Bennett?). And boring. Unfortunately, I just didn't feel that Cornthwaite had much new to offer with this one. There's a lot of material lifted straight from Austen, where she just provides some extra thoughts from Knightley's point of view to pad it out. Then there are the scenes she places in between to show us that Knightley is great. I love me some Mr. Knightley, but all we find out in this book is that he is a Nice Man who does charitable acts and hangs out with the vicar in his parish. It reads like an book length argument about how Nice Guys Are Sexy, too! And the way she writes his discovery of his love for Emma is... almost like she shares the priorities of the first group, without getting into Inappropriate Things. She has him gush and think in this awful purple prose, and I'm sorry. I think Mr. Knightley is amazing, but he is NOT sitting there by the fire thinking about his grand plan to win Emma's love, calling her his "divine angel," and whatever else she has him do. The inside of Knightley's head should be a sensible, ironic, intelligent place. I would think someone so concerned with keeping things PG would have agreed with me about that- nope. Just as focused on obsession as the others, and just as silly about it. It's just that her fantasy has more to do with dudes who quote from the Bible and win the morality lottery with every decision. I'm seriously trying to think of more to tell you about this book, but the honest truth is that there's really not much more to it.

I think I might, in the end, prefer the first category now that I think about it. At least I'd have a whole book of flowery metaphors for sexytimes for comic relief!

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ever wanted to know what he was thinking and doing apart from what was revealed in Emma? Yes, I sure did. Mr. George Knightley was the best part of reading Emma for me. I was glad to see that an author gave him his due in this gently-paced new point of view that tells the story of Emma through Mr. Knightley's eyes.

The story parallels the time line of Emma, but feels almost like a whole new story because it's focus is not the heroine Emma's activities, but the hero, Knightley's. His thoughts, his daily life, his circle of acquaintance all come vividly to life. It is not sensationalized and the attention to historical detail make it a jewel for those who appreciate a tight historical and particularly for those who appreciate a tight Austenesque historical.

George Knightley is a single gentleman with an estate near the town of Highbury. He lives a quiet, busy life that is interrupted by occasional visits to his brother in London. His nearest neighbors in distance and equal society are the Woodhouses. He has watched Emma grow up and now must watch her grown into her own as she dabbles in matchmaking and heeds her own advice and inclinations about the people around her. Knightley is frustrated and at times angered by her willfulness, but still finds her superior to every other woman he knows. Between his responsibilities of estate owner, magistrate, head of his family, and citizen of a neighborhood, he watches how Emma's machinations and the entry of a few new faces set in motion changes in the neighborhood and inside him. And this segment of the story ends with George Knightley having an epiphany moment in that he realizes what is behind a recent growing restlessness and dissatisfaction- he is in love and with a woman who isn't in love with him.

So, this book, was a satisfying read for me. I liked the author's style, her portrayal of the original characters along with her own created characters, her ability to write a story paralleling the original that fit together smoothly, and the insight into a well beloved character making him truly come to life. This is the first half of the story and literally stops at the half way point so the reader needs to be prepared for that and for the need to read a second volume to get the whole story.

After I was struck by all that the author had him involved in, I was also taken with how universally liked, respected, and thought well of that he was without doing more than being himself. Doing his duty, showing compassion and understanding, and engaging in life even while being something of a quiet, thoughtful introvert making him very appealing as a main character. I was pleasantly surprised that a gently-paced story focusing on small daily activities would engage me like it did, but I was truly enjoying it. I love romance and the development of romance, but I wouldn't have even missed it if it never showed up in the story. And that's a strong statement for how I liked all that was going on in the story.

Though, have to say, that even if Knightley's romance was missing, I would have still gotten a good dose of at least the unrequited sort through two other minor stories going on in the background. Hope those continue to develop well in the next segment.

Knightley has a fun and engaging relationship with his brother, John (those letters they exchange are hilarious), and also his estate steward, William Larkins who has his ear to the ground and knows everything that happens in the neighborhood. The humor was understated, witty, and droll particularly when it involved John Knightley. The brothers are very different, but they were quite the pair and I enjoyed their interactions so much. Larkins's comedic role as the neighborhood busybody was as fun as Miss Bates though he has a different personality from her and sees things through a negative glass is half empty philosophy.

In truth, I could run through a list of minor characters that it was fun to know because the author made sure even those were written with depth and background.

This version of the story doesn't seem to deliberately put down Emma which I've read in other variations and retellings and do not like. However, it does spotlight her glaring faults and the weakness in the developing romance. Because this Knightley is always thinking of others, thinking of how his words and actions affect others, Emma's lack in that way is more obvious than even in the original story. She is bored after her companion is married so she dabbles in matchmaking wrecking a romance and unwittingly earning an enemy in a man who thought she was showing him attention. She also comes off as something of a snob because she has limited or no associations with people that Knightley does share a social circle with.

And that leads me to the potentially problematic issue for me is that the vast difference in their maturity level making it tough to not be concerned about the developing romance at the end of this segment of the story. And this is where Jane Austen and even the current book's author were smart. They didn't let even a little romance occur between the two lead characters. They are antagonistic and they are friendly, but they aren't in love.
While Emma is maturing, the romance is one-sided. Knightley feels it, but wisely holds back knowing time is required even as he worries that someone else may catch her fancy before he feels it is safe to speak. Oh the agony for Knightley, but there it is- he understands the reward of patience and delayed gratification if he wants the ultimate prize. It will be in the next book of this series that hopefully I will see the chasm between their maturity levels grow smaller and the romance will work for me.

And if I thought this version made Emma appear in a bad light, Elton, Frank, Harriet, and Mr. Woodhouse most definitely do. But even then (well with the exception of Frank since Frank is a source of jealousy), Knightley is generous and is sympathetic to their weaknesses and follies. I think if I was dissatisfied with anything and this was a small niggle, I felt that Knightley's early reaction to Frank felt over the top and not in keeping with everything else. I didn't mind that the author took it that direction, but I felt it came on too strong too early and looked weird since Frank wasn't even on the scene yet.

So, in summary, I loved this retelling of Emma from the hero's point of view. I am definitely looking forward to the second half of the story. I can recommend this to those who tend to be closer to the Austen purist end of the JAFF spectrum, but I think any lovers of the Emma story and Austenesque in general would love this one.

[Ceri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review was first posted on Babblings of a Bookworm: http://babblingsofabookworm.blogspot....

This duology is Austen’s ‘Emma’ from Mr Knightley’s perspective, which is an interesting concept, possibly the best Austen hero to have a book written from his viewpoint, as his thoughts and feelings are presented to the reader through the filter of Emma’s skewed understanding. If you read ‘Emma’ the first time you might not notice all the instances, but on a re-read, which I did earlier this year, it’s almost difficult to focus on the story for noticing all the hints and signs of things which she doesn’t understand because she is determined to interpret things to fit what she believes is happening rather than work out what is happening from the behaviour and actions of the people around her.

The story opens with Mr Knightley returning from London to Hartfield. Emma’s governess, Miss Taylor has just become Mrs Weston and Mr Knightley is keenly aware that Emma is bound to feel a huge void in her life. Although Knightley is busy with his estate, being a magistrate, taking part in local society including almost daily visits to the Woodhouse family and having occasional visits to his brother’s growing family in London, he is starting to become aware that there is a void in his life too.

‘After the noisy cheerfulness of his brother’s house, Donwell Abbey seemed lonely and silent—even more so than usual.’

One thing that I really enjoyed about this book was how evident it was that Mr Knightley has a huge soft spot for Emma – in ‘Emma’ you see many instances of him seemingly disapproving of her, but there was also an evidently very close relationship so it was good to see that highlighted further:

“There may someday be a mistress at Donwell Abbey who prefers the modern style and who persuades you at the last to pull down that grove.”

Never, thought Knightley. The lime walk was one of his favourite retreats when he had something to think over. He had been known to pace it for hours when an important decision had to be made. And Emma liked it.’

It’s clear from both books that Mr Knightley is a very forbearing man – many of the inhabitants of Highbury are tiresome in their own way, which always made me feel quite sympathetic towards Emma’s feelings for them, and he is shown to be generous in his toleration for the foibles of others here, though not lacking in judgement, as evidenced by his feelings towards Mr Elton, whom he judges to not always behave in a manner entirely befitting a Christian who should be setting a good example to his flock.

I wasn’t expecting much humour in this book so I was pleasantly surprised to find that there was plenty of it, ranging from the misunderstandings of a deaf servant, to Mr Knightley’s unexpected acquisition of a cat which becomes particularly attached to him, to the wonderful letters going back and forth between the Knightley brothers. The letters especially were a wonderful addition to the story, setting out how keen John was to see his older brother settled, showing an affectionate relationship between the brothers and allowing a dry sense of humour to shine through. They are just as amusing during the times they are face to face:

“I do wonder at you, John. Do you lie awake at night thinking of ways to provoke me?”

“Yes,” said John. “It takes a great deal of contemplation.”

In this book a very interesting point is raised, of why Emma doesn’t object more to Frank Churchill’s neglect of his father and stepmother in not visiting sooner.

‘No one could doubt Emma’s devotion to her own father; she showed him unceasing kindness and consideration, even though he could be a very tedious companion. How then could she treat so lightly Churchill’s indifference to Weston, a man who was by no means a tedious companion, and who, if not due a visit before now, was certainly owed one on the occasion of his marriage? Knightley could not understand it.’

From ‘Emma’ we know that she actually isn’t always representing her own true feelings. Here is a snippet from Austen's story, where Emma speaks to Mr Knightley about Frank Churchill coming to the neighbourhood:

‘She was the first to announce it to Mr. Knightley; and exclaimed quite as much as was necessary, (or, being acting a part, perhaps rather more,) at the conduct of the Churchills, in keeping him away. She then proceeded to say a good deal more than she felt, of the advantage of such an addition to their confined society in Surrey; the pleasure of looking at some body new; the gala-day to Highbury entire, which the sight of him would have made; and ending with reflections on the Churchills again, found herself directly involved in a disagreement with Mr. Knightley; and, to her great amusement, perceived that she was taking the other side of the question from her real opinion, and making use of Mrs. Weston's arguments against herself.’ – from ‘Emma’ by Jane Austen.

I thought this distinction in the views was very interesting; it reminded me of how often in ‘Emma’ people’s true feelings are disguised or mistaken, and it’s a theme I think is likely to continue over to the second book, particularly as Frank Churchill’s attentions towards Emma intensify.

When considering the subject of Mr Knightley’s feelings towards Frank Churchill, the title of the book becomes a little clearer. A longer quote from the Bible is as follows:

‘Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up.’

This quote could almost describe Mr Knightley – he is certainly long-suffering and kind, putting up with even the most tedious of neighbours, and dealing kindly with tenants, yet he is not boastful or big-headed (you could learn something from him there, Mr Elton!). The only way he doesn’t fulfil the verse is that Mr Knightley envies somebody, when it should be ‘Charity Envieth Not’. The ending of this book coincides with Frank Churchill having to leave Highbury, leading to the ball being postponed, in ‘Emma’. The ending of this book sees Mr Knightley making a resolution which, for me, didn’t quite fit with my view of his character. It was not an ungentlemanly resolution, but just one I didn’t find likely. However, this was a minor quibble in an otherwise very enjoyable book.

As for the style of the book, I would say that it’s not quite Austen-like, but I found it very enjoyable all the same. The pace of the book is fairly leisurely, but that was no bad thing, as I thought it really set the scene. There were some minor characters which were very nicely fleshed out, as well as the introduction of new ones. I felt that the author of this book really knew ‘Emma’ thoroughly, and used things mentioned in passing in Austen’s book to provide events and characters for this book. I would certainly recommend this book, and I hope that the remaining book in the series lives up to the promise of this book. This for me was a 4½ star read. Onward to book two!

[Meredith (Austenesque Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

George Knightley, wealthy, mature, and compassionate, seemed to be a very successful member of the landed gentry of Highbury; and had lived in the world for nearly thirty-seven years with little to disrupt his peaceful and quiet existence. That is until he realizes that his little sister-in-law Emma Woodhouse, is no longer a little girl but a lovely young woman whom he greatly cares for...

Are you inclined to learn more about this admirable and benevolent gentleman? Would you like to gain a greater understanding of his thoughts and feelings?

Author Barbara Cornthwaite delivers a pleasing and absorbing augmentation of Jane Austen's “Emma,” told from the perspective of Mr. Knightley, in her wonderful series “George Knightley, Esquire!” This novel, the first of two, begins just as “Emma” did with the Weston's nuptials and closes with Frank Churchill's departure from Highbury. So be prepared to not have a completed story at the end of this book and to have an intense desire to obtain book two right away!

I love retellings of Jane Austen novels and to read one where one of my favorite Austen heroes is respectfully and accurately portrayed filled me with sheer delight! I took great pleasure in reading about Mr. Knightley's interactions with his household and various members of Highbury, especially the new characters Ms. Cornthwaite skillfully crafted. In addition, I loved being privy to Mr. Knightley's speculations about the Emma/Harriet/Elton dilemma and comprehending his predisposed dislike and prejudice towards Frank Churchill. But what I enjoyed most about this book was spending more time with Mr. Knightley! (What Austen fan wouldn't want to do that?)

While I am pleased that the author interwove parts of “Emma” with her novel and did NOT take license to alter or paraphrase Jane Austen's original dialogue, I did, however, observe that some of Mr. Knightley's speeches were shortened a little. Mr. Knightley does make many great speeches in “Emma,” and most of the content of these speeches can be found in Barbara Cornthwaite's retelling. There are just a few incidents where she omits a part of his speech and summarizes what he says using “he explained...” or “he told...” Some of my favorite Mr. Knightley quotes are “Vanity working on a weak head produces every sort of mischief” and “Men of sense, whatever you may choose to say, do not want silly wives.” I was a little disappointed that these quotes were not fully included and it was because of this that I gave the book 4.5 stars instead of 5.

Barbara Cornthwaite's George Knightley, Esquire Series is sure to delight and satisfy admirers of Pamela Aiden's Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman Trilogy and Susan Kaye's Frederick Wentworth, Captain Series. I am so grateful for writers, like Barbara Cornthwaite, for giving us a closer look into the lives of these Austen men!!

Austenesque Reviews

[Abigail Bok · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perhaps in homage to the two- and three-volume sets in which Jane Austen’s novels were originally published, the writers of Austenesque fiction have a penchant for penning multivolume interpretations and inspired-bys, both period and modern. This tendency seems to be especially marked when it comes to retellings from the point of view of the hero. Apparently the hes of Jane Austen require more explaining than the shes. Charity Envieth Not is the first volume of a series titled George Knightley, Esquire, which as you might imagine retells Emma from Mr. Knightley’s point of view. So I’ll start with a caution to readers that you are unlikely to be satisfied by reading only this first volume, any more than you would be satisfied by reading half a novel.

Charity Envieth Not closely tracks Emma from the beginning to a point not long before the ball at the Crown Inn. It is a very different story from the original, however, because instead of following Emma Woodhouse’s daily life and thoughts, it follows Knightley’s. If anything were needed to convince us, this divergence speaks volumes about the different spheres in which men and women moved at the start of the nineteenth century in England. This story is rich in the minutiae of a landed gentleman’s life, from the rhythms of the agricultural year to the dilemmas of his tenants. This side of Mr. Knightley’s world, barely alluded to in Emma, is vividly realized in Barbara Cornthwaite’s novel, and it makes him a more sympathetic character than he is in Austen’s account. Instead of encountering him only as he affects Emma’s life, we see him embedded in the web of an entire community. That aspect of the novel, which dominates much of the text, was deeply satisfying for me.

What was less satisfying was what followed after he had his revelation that he was in love with Emma. I am not a huge fan of retellings that focus for chapter after chapter on the romance aspect of Austen’s fiction—does he/she love me?—or on physical attraction. To my mind these were very much secondary considerations for Austen. My personal preference is stories that emphasize the development of the characters’ ethics, how they earn each other’s regard through their qualities of mind and their behavior toward others. Perhaps the second volume in the set will highlight this aspect of the story more; the plot line of Emma makes it likely. But for me the first volume went downhill a bit after “love came to town.” I realize that I run counter to contemporary romantic tastes in this regard, however, and what I regard as a defect others will regard as an enhancement.

There are some other elements of the novel that come out of a modern writer’s tool kit, notably the use of a pet to humanize the hero. The scenes with Madame Duval the cat reminded me of Ulysses in Georgette Heyer’s novel Arabella, and those echoes gave me pleasure though they also felt a little out of place in Jane Austen’s world.

The language of the dialogue is pleasingly “period,” though the narrative is less so. Many modern writers of period novels make this choice, though I confess to a preference for ones like Stephanie Barron who have a true ear for the patterns and vocabulary of Jane Austen’s prose. One minor thing that gave me pause was the title, since it appeared to me that Cornthwaite’s Mr. Knightley suffered to a marked degree from, if not envy, at least jealousy.

But none of these minor matters of taste detracted significantly from the enjoyment I found in the tales of village life that Cornthwaite has so ably evoked. I took a lot of pleasure in the perusal of this book, and look forward to reading the second volume.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is perfectly in synch with the first half of Emma - I read both concurrently and plan to move next to George Knightley, Esquire: Lend Me Leave, which I'm sure will do the same with the second half. Charity Envieth Not fills in all the blanks to show the reader what Mr. Knightley is doing whenever he's not with Emma; this book (and presumably the next) follows his activities in much the same way that Jane Austen's novel follows her title character.

Interestingly, Emma becomes more likeable here than in the original story. Mr. Knightley recognizes all her faults, but he can't help but admire her intellect, her good heart, her teasing nature with him, her elegance and, of course, her beauty. It takes him most of this book to realize that he's in love with her, since his relationship with her has always been more like an uncle or a much older brother. He's frustrated by all the attention she's receiving from Frank Churchill, who he deeply distrusts and dislikes.

But the strength of this book is not so much the story that all Jane Austen enthusiasts already know. Instead, it's more in the expanded world we get to see through Mr. Knightley's eyes. He exchanges letters frequently with his brother John (who is married to Isabella, Emma's sister). He dotes on John's children, and finds himself the reluctant owner of a tempermental cat, Madam Duval, bestowed on him by his young niece. He participates in area meetings regarding issues significant to the residents. He serves as magistrate, settling various disputes and legal problems. He regularly visits his tenants, particularly those who need some assistance. Unlike Emma, he's not at all class-conscious, treating everyone with dignity and respect.

The author has clearly done her research into the responsibilities of a man in Mr. Knightley's position, and she demonstrates how conscientious he is in fulfilling all of them. The number of different roles he has to play and the large number of people under his auspices are truly daunting, but he seems to handle it all capably, as he's been doing it for years. The reader can't help but admire him even more than in Emma.

Woven into the plot are two other men and their romances. One is Robert Martin, who comes to Mr. Knightley for advice when he considers proposing to Harriet Smith, Emma's constant companion. Mr. Spencer, a curate, has his eye on a widow, Mrs. Catherwood, who recently moved to the area with her blind young son. All three romances (including Mr. Knightley and Emma) are very much up in the air as this book concludes.

I am very impressed with the author's ability to mimic Jane Austen's writing. Since I was jumping back and forth between the two books, I could recognize how well it matched. There were times I had to think about which one I was reading, especially in those parts where both Emma and Mr. Knightley are present that both books share. I'm looking forward to reading the conclusion!

[Kirk · Rating 5 out of 5]

1st read July 2015

[IndieJane · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I first heard that Barbara Cornthwaite’s Emma-from-Knightley’s-POV was really two separate books, I was perplexed. I’ve read Amanda Grange’s Mr. Knightley’s Diary, and it was a quick, fast, one-book read — why was this one two? Then I started reading Charity Envieth Not, the first installment, and I quickly understood why we do indeed need two books to tell Knightley’s tale.


The general story is one any reader of Emma is familiar with, just told from Knightley’s point of view, so it’s less dialogue between Harriet and Emma, and more perceptions of their friendship, etc. I enjoyed getting to see Emma the way Knightley did, and to watch the events take place from such a different perspective. What sets Charity Envieth Not and Lend Me Leave apart from other books, like Mr. Knightley’s Diary, is that it’s not just a retelling of Emma that swaps the story to tell it from his angle, without really adding much new material. Instead, the George Knightley, Esquire books really delve into Knightley as a person and character, beyond his opinions expressed within the original text.

Not only does Cornthwaite let us see into Knightley’s mind and really get a good handle on exactly what he thinks of Frank Churchill and Mr. Elton, she lets us see into his world. The details and all the “backstory” that goes into making Mr. George Knightley that most beloved Knightley – it’s all here. Ever wonder what Knightley does when he’s not at Hartfield? Or what about the relationship between Knightley and his brother John (you know, Isabella’s husband)? Well, now you can find out. I loved getting to know Knightley better, getting to see his strength of character and learning what his role at Donwell entails. There’s a host of other characters too who are given flesh and blood, like Robert Martin, and Knightley’s interactions with these characters further strengthened my opinion of him and kept the story flowing. (I never realized how much “empty space” there was in the Emma-Knightley dynamic, but he was away from her a lot!)

If you’re a fan of Emma and Knightley already, you will definitely want to give these two a go — there are no unnerving character quirks that show up sometimes, you know, the ones that change a character subtly in ways that make them less hot? Er, likeable. Cornthwaite does a really good job of keeping all her characters authentic-feeling, and sounding. And if you’re not sure about the whole Knightley thing, then I’d suggest giving these a try. Let’s just say I fell in love with Mr. Knightley all over again.



3.5 out of 5 Stars
(review by guest reviewer Rebecca Fleming)

[Erika · Rating 4 out of 5]

An insightful look into Mr Knightley's world.

I have to say I just finished the book a few hrs ago. I enjoyed the book, though I have to say that it was different than what I thought. I have read several of Amanda Grange's JA Hero books and my mind was thinking in that direction. But Charity Envieth Not was very different. They are more in diary form versus novel form from his POV. I have not read Emma, just watched the movies, so I don't know how well it paralleled Emma, though from the movies, I'd say yes. It also gave light and explained something that you'd really only know if you were viewing the going ons from Mr Knightley's perspective.

I found it interesting all the duties that Mr Knightley keeps himself busy with, and that he is really a hands-on gentleman farmer. One thing this book makes more clear to me is why his is in a three way tie for first place of JA boyfriends for me, tied with Darcy and Wentworth of course. One thing this book still has me fuzzy on is how Mr Knightley fell in love with Emma. I am not the biggest fan of Emma, I find her a bit naive yet full of herself, and oh so very spoiled!!! In CHN, Mr Knightley's realization of his love is so drastic in my opinion, since for most of the book he is annoyed with her naivety, self importance, and stubbornness. He also seems irritated with everyone in the community putting her on a pedestal and bowing down to her. So for him to just **boom** be in love it seemed contrived to me.

I loved seeing how humble Mr Knightley is, willing to converse with any and all from the upper echelons of society to the poorest of the poor. He treats everyone the same and has kind words for all, except Mr Churchill in his mind. I love how he is fair in his decisions as a magistrate, and not a frivolous fop just because he has the money.

So where I truly enjoyed it, I had to give it a 4.5 star rating because it didn't always keep my attention as rapidly as was my hope. That doesn't mean it is bad, but just made my progress slow. I would recommend this book to other JAFFers and I plan to read its sequel Lend Me Leave soon to finish the story.

[Ahnya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Basically it is half the story of Emma from Mr. Knightley's point of view. It adds so much more to the story. It highlights, or focuses on different characters, so you get a different perspective of the goings on.

I love the author's interpretation of Mr. Knightley's character. It is mostly in line with how I see him. She has a wonderful sense of humor, and I found myself laughing out loud while reading. I think my favorite part about the book is the relationship between Mr. George Knightley and his brother John.

My only critique is that the story is in 2 books, so you only get half. It kinda feels like a ploy to get more money.

[Bobbi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book and am looking forward to part 2. The book is a great companion to Emma. She shows the rest of Mr. Knightley's life as a magistrate and his role in the neighborhood. The characters that have been introduced add to the story and show Mr. Knightley's relationship with the rest of Highbury. A charming read and I will be looking for the sequel.

[Anna]

Charity Envieth Not is the first of two novels by Barbara Cornthwaite about George Knightley, the hero of Jane Austen’s Emma. It’s a delightful retelling of Emma through Mr. Knightley’s eyes, from the start of Emma’s matchmaking schemes through Emma and Frank Churchill’s plans for a ball in Highbury.

Unlike some of the other Austen heroes, it’s obvious from the start that Mr. Knightley is among the best of men. He is intelligent and generous, has impeccable manners, and is always honest. In letters to his brother, John, Cornthwaite shows off Knightley’s humorous and playful side. However, Mr. Knightley’s one flaw is his tendency to find fault with Emma Woodhouse, the sister of his brother’s wife and a young woman he has watched grow up. He has 16 years more worldly experience than Emma, and he is more than willing to pass his wisdom onto her.

It’s true that Emma needs someone to guide her toward right behavior, especially since everyone else in Highbury goes overboard in flattering her — especially the vicar, Mr. Elton, whom Emma has chosen for her dimwitted friend, Harriet Smith. When Mr. Knightley realizes exactly how he feels about Emma, it’s quite possible that his admonishments may have pushed her into the arms of Frank Churchill, whose air of mystery and playful charm seem to have bewitched her. Mr. Knightley, however, sees nothing but flaws, particularly Churchill’s inability to defy his overbearing aunt and pay his respects to his new stepmother, Emma’s former governess.

In Charity Envieth Not, Cornthwaite gives readers a look into Mr. Knightley’s thoughts, showing his reasons for sometimes being harsh with Emma and for disliking Frank Churchill, the evolution of his feelings for Emma, and all the anxieties of a bachelor in his late 30s who finally understands his heart but is powerless to act. She also gives readers a glimpse into his everyday responsibilities as master of Donwell Abbey, a landlord, and a magistrate, from caring for the needs of his tenants to hearing accusations of petty crimes and dealing out punishments.

I loved Cornthwaite’s Mr. Knightley, and given that she incorporates Austen’s actual dialogue at times, I had to keep reminding myself that this Mr. Knightley isn’t Austen’s brainchild. From the story behind his dislike of dancing to his adopting his niece’s cat, Madam Duval, to his tortured heart upon the arrival of Frank Churchill, Cornthwaite made me fall in love with Mr. Knightley all over again. I also like how Cornthwaite fleshes out certain secondary characters, like Mr. Elton, in the scenes in which only the gentlemen are present. She also introduces some interesting new characters, like Mr. Spencer, Donwell’s new curate who, along with Madam Duval, becomes Knightley’s confidante.

Charity Enviety Not made me wish Emma was more popular among the authors of Austen-inspired fiction. I loved seeing one of my favorite novels from the hero’s point of view, and this retelling is richer and more enjoyable than the diary versions of the heroes’ stories. You’re going to want to have book two, Lend Me Leave, on hand when you start this one — even if you’ve already read Emma — because you’re not going to want to wait to find out what happens next.

Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric

[writer... · Rating 4 out of 5]

An inside look at Jane Austen's Emma as we spend time with George Knightley. Excellent insights into Knightley's world as we experience his life as a landowner, magistrate, employer and as a respected gentleman in Regency England.

Ms Cornthwaite's adeptness at writing humour adds delightful laughter to the story. Letters between George and his brother John are happy diversions that pulled me in to their world, revealing appealing aspects to these characters. Her introduction of supporting characters is well done, preventing the confusion that often occurs in sequels or fan fiction. Ms Cornthwaite also expresses a great understanding of scripture, applying it accurately throughout the novel with the understanding that would have been common to that day. This too adds much to the realistic aspect of the story.

I gained a greater appreciation for Knightley having read Charity Envieth Not and look forward to further romantic development in book 2, Lend Me Leave, now that he's realized his heart's desire is Emma...

[Badlydone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I tend to be rather skeptical when I read any sequels to Jane Austen's works as there is such a wide range in terms of quality and one never knows what one is going to get. So, it was very heartening to see one that was true to Jane Austen's style and very well written too.

I like reading sequels written from the hero's perspective, and my favorite Austen read is Emma. So, it was the best of both worlds for me, as this one is written from George Knightley, Emma's leading man's point of view. Mr. Knightley is indeed the perfect gentleman - and Barbara Cornthwaite retains and strenghten's this aspect of Mr. Knightley's character. Her portrayal of his struggle to understand his feelings is very subtle and well done. The new characters she introduces are all interesting, add to the book, help fill in gaps and fit in very well with the story.

If you enjoy reading Austenesque books, this one is not to be missed. I can't wait for the second part to come out! Five stars.

[Eliza Baum · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was extremely well done. I enjoyed Emma just fine, despite feeling little connection and sympathy with the title character. That was not the case here. I loved George Knightley far more than I expected. His relationship with his brother, with Dr. Hughes and Spencer, with his tenants and steward--they all gave a picture of a man I'd very much like to know. I also really enjoyed seeing Emma from his perspective. Though I still can't say I loved her, I at least appreciated her a little more. His slow realization of his love for her was fabulous.

My only real complaint is that this was split into two books. It seems like an odd choice to me, since it's an incomplete story this way. But at least the second one is available through kindle unlimited. I'm definitely going to read it, though I might have to give myself a break from Emma in general for a bit.

[Grace Masters · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a delightful read. I am in great anticipation for the second half. It was very interesting to see Mr. Knightley's life outside of Emma and to see him come to the conclusion of his feelings for her.

Madam Duvall and John Knightley were some of my very favorite parts, I couldn't help by smile and laugh in those moments.

It was a very fun and entertaining read and I daresay I may step back to this one a little more often than Emma.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutley loved this book. Knightley finally realizes that the loves Emma in the first book of this series. It also tells about Knightley's life and how he fits into the community of Highbury. He also has a geat sense of humor, especially with his brother John. I have always loved "Emma" and this is a perfect Austenesque book to go along with it!

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Watch out, Mr. Darcy. You may just have some competition from Mr. Knightley. Swoon.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've loved George Knightley ever since I first read Emma at thirteen years old. It was clearly a formative experience, because I adore him as much today as I did then, if not more so. He's my favourite literary hero, which I know is saying something given all the magnificent literary heroes out there, even within Austen's own novels. But he's my favourite, and maybe if I loved him less, I might be able to talk about it more articulately (see what I did there??)

He doesn't have the brooding flare of Mr Darcy, or the muslin knowledge of Henry Tilney. George Knightley is just... good. Sure, he's occasionally a petty little bitch, who gets jealous over Frank Churchill's handwriting, but he's my petty little bitch, thank you very much. He gets a bad rap because of the age thing, but actually if anything, the 2020 film adaptation came along and bitch slapped us all by casting the-exact-age-as-George-Knightley Johnny Flynn, looking youthful as hell, thank you very much. Does Knightley get on his high horse a bit? Yeah, of course he does. He's a rich white dude in Regency times. But he also has Emma Woodhouse to deal with and I think we all know that she is no shrinking violet and is hardly afraid to fight back. Give the dude a break.

There are so many Austen spin offs, knock offs, retellings and sequels out there. And if I'm honest, I've found the majority of them over the years quite disappointing. It's a magic that can't seem to be recaptured, and so one almost wishes that people didn't try. And then sometimes you get something that just hits the right spot. It isn't perfect, but it fills a void that you needed filling and this series was it for me.

Ever want to know what Mr Knightley gets up to when he isn't with Emma? Because although I'd argue that he is one of the few Austen heroes that gets quite a lot of up front time with his lady, he also doesn't spend every single waking moment at Hartfield. And so this series (as this review is really about the series as a whole rather than just this book alone), grants the reader a look into the life of a upright Regency gentleman farmer of means.

And basically it just cements what we already know. Mr Knightley is a good soul. He's kind and generous and interested in people. He's social, but has enough dry humour to recognise idiocy and try and evade it where he can. He's busy being a magistrate, a farmer, a landlord, an all round good guy who everybody loves. He puts up with Mr Woodhouse without complaint, is willing to admit he was wrong about Harriet Smith, and is totally fine with being BFF's with people who - at the time - would have been classed as below his station. Does this dude care? NO HE DOES NOT. Because he walks around seeing the good in people, which really explains why he is the one guy who is able to fall in love with Emma, without idealising her.

Was this book perfect? No, not at all. There were things that I would argue would very much not be the actions of sensible and practical Mr Knightley. He might be very much in love with Emma, but in my view, he wouldn't spend that time talking to an imaginary version of her, with all sorts of flowery poetic language. In my head, that's not his style. But barring that, the series captured his youthful and humourful spirit, and it was just what I needed.

We of course got to experience the novel's events through Mr Knightley's unique point of view, which was quite fun. He can't always detect all the events that are going on, but it's fun to watch him pick up on things without knowing why. There are some great original characters in this that felt really engaging - almost so much that you think they would fit into the original novel itself. And this series made me appreciate the acerbic comedy of John Knightley even more. The Knightley brothers are a DUO that are so rarely appreciated, and some of the best dialogue was between them, or within their hilarious letters to each other.

Either way, this was one of the better Austen-adjacent attempts I've read. All the better to scrub the disappointing Alexander McCall Smith modern retelling from my mind (it really shouldn't have been that difficult to get right, and yet...) This series was fun, soothing and enjoyable. Did it do my man the justice he deserves? Not entirely. Will I ever be satisfied that Mr Knightley is appreciated to the extent that he should be? Also no. But the series very much found an Emma-esque tone: the comings and goings of a small country village, through the eyes of one of Austen's underappreciated (but undoubtedly best) heroes.

[Diane Shearer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful. Love love love it! I took my time with it savoring every word. It’s so beautifully written and so very imaginative. I can’t believe this has been out since 2009. Thankfully I don’t have to wait two years for the rest of the story. It’s true to the original but told from Mr. Knightly’s POV with new details about him and the people of Donwell that we haven’t heard before. The letters between George and John are particularly delightful. I became completely absorbed in the world of Donwell Abbey. I’ve always had a soft spot for Mr. Knightly and now I’m in love with him. I also really love the trope of an older man falling for a young woman. I don’t know why, it’s just so sexy to me. I will need a hard copy of these two books on my shelf. The first time I looked they were only available as ebooks but today I see a paperback edition. I’m certain I will want to reread these many times as I read all the Austen books every year. Highly recommended.

[Bibliobites Veronica · Rating 4 out of 5]

It may be wrong to say, but I like this book (and it's sequel) almost more than Emma. It's funnier (the banter between Knightly and his brother John is top notch) and all Emma's foibles are softened when seeing them through Knightly's eyes. It also does not add or change anything about Austen's characters, and is just overall well written. Highly recommend to any Austen fans, even the "purists."

[Marguerite Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

While reading this novel, I feel as if I am on a journey with an old fried. A refreshing retelling of Emma from George Knightley's point of view. A new perspective of a lovely Jane Austen creation. Now, I have an urge to reread Emma.
Bravo, Barbara!

[Georgiana 1792 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Premettendo che non amo molto i derivati di Emma e che ho trovato Il diario di Mr. Knightley uno dei meno riusciti tra i retelling degli eroi austeniani di Amanda Grange, devo dire che questo romanzo mi ha piacevolmente sorpresa.
La storia di Emma è suddivisa in due volumi, anche perché Cornthwaite aggiunge agli episodi presenti nel romanzo austeniano anche altri personaggi, ovvero i fittavoli di Donwell Abbey, il nuovo curato del suo parroco, Mr. Hughes, che si è rotto una gamba, il timidissimo Peter Spencer; oltre alle riunioni periodiche della parrocchia di Highbury, con tutte le situazioni pratiche da affrontare - di cui Emma non sa nulla, naturalmente, ecco perché non ne sappiamo nulla neanche noi - e al rapporto di George con suo fratello John, che continua a insistere perché si sposi.
George, però, non è bendisposto verso nessuna delle donne del vicinato, né di quelle che John e Isabella continuano a presentargli, forse perché è interessato a qualcun'altra...
Ma lo scopre solo dopo l'arrivo di Frank Churchill a Highbury, quando la sua crescente antipatia per il giovane dandy si rivela per quello che è: gelosia per Emma.
Questo romanzo si conclude quando Frank Churchill va via da Randalls per tornare nello Yorkshire dagli esigenti zii - facendo saltare il ballo a cui Mr. Knightley non aveva alcun desiderio di partecipare - lasciandosi dietro Emma e... Jane Fairfax, naturalmente; ma George non ha ancora alcun sospetto su di loro, altrimenti sarebbe più tranquillo, almeno un po'.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved reading Charity Envieth Not and Lend Me Leave. These two books tell the novel Emma through the perspective of George Knightley. I almost wish they were combined into one edition, however. Still, I can't begin to recommend these enough to all Austen fans!!!

I enjoyed many aspects of both books. I really, really loved George Knightley. That in and of itself is far from shocking. Dare I say he's probably the best thing about Austen's novel?! I loved seeing the characters (and/or the community) through his eyes. I loved his involvement in the community. I loved meeting various characters--rich and poor, from all classes or statuses. I especially, especially liked Spencer! I loved getting to know his brother John better. And I liked seeing him in the role of uncle! I liked how wide the perspective is--if that makes sense! Emma, to me, comes across as very self-centered, the world through her eyes seem a bit narrow.

I also appreciate how both books treat the character of Emma. I think to fully appreciate Emma, one HAS to see her AS Knightley sees her. This book accomplishes that! I don't think I've ever seen Emma in such a positive light before. And it made me think a bit, what if Emma is blinded to her strengths JUST as she's blinded to her weaknesses. OR in other words, what if the narration is a bit too close to accurately judge her strengths/weaknesses. Of course, Knightley cannot absolutely read all her motives and intentions, so maybe he's reading more compassion, more tenderness, more generosity than is really truly there. But maybe just maybe Emma's heart is bigger than I have previously thought. And maybe just maybe her mind isn't quite as empty as I thought it. I kept asking myself what does Knightley see in Emma that I don't?

I would recommend it to those who already love Emma, and even to those that don't really like her. Knightley is a great hero! And he's definitely worth reading about!

[Melissa’s Bookshelf · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought that the author did a fabulous job in writing Emma from Mr. Knightley's point of view. I guess the reason for the 3 stars is that the first half of the book took awhile for me to get into. Frankly, I became a little bored just waiting for Mr. Knightley to realize that he loves Emma. The author has a second novel which is a continuation of this story. When reading this book, I kept thinking she probably could have combined both novels and left some of the tedious parts of this book out. I think if you are a diehard Jane Austen fan who wants every little nuiance of each character then you might love this book.

[sylph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr Knightley is by far my favorite Austen hero, one of my favorites of all, which is saying a considerable thing. And this book manages to allow me to imagine him just as I would wish to, with a graceful understanding of his situation, his point of view, and his voice. The added characters make sense and fill out his story, and I couldn't wait to read the second book, which completes the tale as a parallel to Emma. And not once did I wince or feel jarred by unctiousness or anachronism or an egregious amount of passive language.

[Lynn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Because I was so in love with Mr Darcy, I read Pamela Aidan's trilogy on him (I'd skip book 2-way out there). And since I re-read Emma (because I was watching the new mini-series), I thought I'd try this one on George Knightley. It's not Austen by any stretch of the imagination, but it was fun. It was far better than the Mr Darcy set, it all stayed true to what I would imagine life was really like for them. And I'll probably read the second when it comes out too.

[Alexa Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

http://alexaadams.blogspot.com/2010/02/george-knightley-esquire-charity.html

[Blodeuedd Finland]

It was good, nothing bad about it, BUT, I do not want to read another POV. I like variations. I am bored

[Kelsey Vang · Rating 4 out of 5]

There was something so incredibly comforting about reading this book. The setting was picturesque, bucolic, and honestly: super informative about the daily ins and outs of a landowner’s responsibilities. At first glance it could be seen as rather mundane, but I believe that is where the magic of it comes in. Because for those who are willing to press in, it is slowly revealed that all these little vignettes in Knightley’s life are strung together to make quite a lovely picture. And for that to be on top of reliving the plot of Emma… well, it was just wonderful.

Another reviewer had criticized Knightley’s portrayal in this novel as being too ‘Nice Guy’. But, alas, I am shamelessly pro-Nice Guy. And just because one is ‘nice’, doesn’t mean one is perfect. The book was filled with Knightley’s thoughts, imperfect though they were: his assumptions about how Emma would behave or think, his jealousies, his certainties about things (whether right or wrong), and - correspondingly - the occasional belief that he knew best.

Cornthwaite also created some wonderful side characters, and had me truly invested in their personal stories: Dr. Hughes, Mr. Spencer, Larkin, Old Maggie, even Madam Duval the cat! They were all so charming. I'm finding more and more that side characters can make or break a novel. Her talent in this area is clear.

And I cannot finish this review without applauding the humor woven throughout the book: in countless interactions, small conversations, even letters. Actually, one of my favorite aspects of the book was the letters written back and forth between Knightley and his brother, John. They were these tasty little treats sprinkled throughout the story. So humorous, so dry, and full of brotherly affection.

My review on the second book is shortly to come, and while it brought my overall enjoyment of this two part series down a bit, I can’t fault this first installment on behalf of the second. A lovely read overall.