A Very Austen Romance features a delightful medley of novellas, each set in Jane Austen’s Regency world. Your friends from Pride and Prejudice, Emma, and Sense and Sensibility enjoy new adventures in this lovely collection of stories by Robin Helm, Laura Hile, Wendi Sotis, Barbara Cornthwaite, Mandy Cook, and Chautona Havig.Be treated to prequels, spin-offs, and sequels of Austen’s novels, along … novels, along with original and supporting characters in starring roles. If historical romance is your preference, you’ll love these well-crafted stories written by beloved authors in the genre.
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I’ve now read all three of these Austen Anthologies! Honestly, I could read ten of them and then start over. I enjoy reading six short novels with six different takes on Austen characters. Sometimes I’m laughing at the wit and antics of the characters performing at the author’s whim. Yet again, I cry at the true losses and challenges of being a woman in the 1800s. Old favorites are back such as Elizabeth and Darcy. How much trouble they continue to find! I love Margaret Dashwood all grown up. I’m so glad Kitty Bennett has her own tale. I thought she’d never grow up. The imaginations of these authors continue to surprise and entertain me. Thank you, ladies, for your expertise in the Austen arena. With these new twists on the Austen classics, our favorite characters will never die.
Dear readers, we are living in a golden age, filled to brimming with a wealth of Jane Austen-inspired tales that creatively explore the endless possibilities of her beloved characters. We are rich, indeed, my friends, and A Very Austen Romance: Austen Anthologies Book 3 is a fine addition to our Austenesque universe. Comprised of six novellas crafted by skilled authors, we are treated to a wide variety of alternatives.
“The King of Hearts” by Robin Helm is a Pride and Prejudice continuation centered on the oft-ignored Kitty Bennet. At the age of 20, she is Elizabeth Darcy’s only unmarried sister. “I am very nearly on the shelf. She sighed. I must be extremely unattractive. Or foolish. Or dull.” (134) As the guest of honor at a ball hosted by the Darcys in London, Kitty soon has suitors sprouting from the woodwork while some surprising intrigue simmers in the background.
“You’ve Got to Kiss the Girl” by Laura Hile is a Pride and Prejudice variation that includes Lady Catherine’s point-of-view alternating with Mr. Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s. “For the past decade, she had hinted, suggested, nagged, cajoled—even commanded him. But did Darcy propose to Anne? No.” (1231) Desperate, Lady Catherine gets a devious idea from a “rubbishy novel left lying about” (1262) to take matters into her own hands, with unexpected consequences.
“A Step Too Far” by Wendi Sotis is a Pride and Prejudice variation wherein Darcy and Elizabeth meet unexpectedly when he witnesses her fall and comes to her rescue soon after his arrival at Netherfield and several weeks before the Meryton assembly. Without all of the misunderstanding from that original event and the interference from Wickham soon after, they are free to form an acquaintance based solely on their first impressions of each other. Darcy learns early on about Elizabeth’s familial links to trade and her father’s small estate and is determined to resist his feelings for her, to honor his family duty. “Love-matches were just not done. Darcy was forced to pay attention to the rules of society.” (3509) As Elizabeth recuperates at Netherfield, however, their mutual admiration only grows stronger.
“John Knightley Wins a Wife” by Barbara Cornthwaite is an Emma prequel from the point-of-view of George Knightley’s younger brother John, who is infatuated with the darling of the London season, “a heartless little flirt,” (4123) according to George. In an attempt to gain the permanent affections of said flirt, John agrees to bring her wild younger brother to Donwell Abbey with him for a few weeks of quiet activities in the countryside. John soon discovers that his guest is still a rakish prankster even in mild Highbury. When childhood friend Isabella Woodhouse becomes involved, John’s eyes begin to open to other possibilities. “Sometimes searching earnestly for something seems to keep you from finding it, and at other times you find exactly what is needed when you were not looking for it at all.” (4792)
“Charming Miss Dashwood” by Chautona Havig is a Sense and Sensibility continuation centered on the youngest Dashwood sister. As a guest of Colonel and Mrs. Brandon at Delaford, Margaret is quite content to spend her days reading her way through their extensive library. Her peace is disturbed by the arrival of Lieutenant Conrad Thayer, on a mission to deliver important documents to the Admiralty. “‘The Colonel said a Navy man would be commandeering the library while he visited.’ She scowled at him as she gave him a full examination.” (5043) Action ensues as villains attempt to intercept the dispatch. All the while, headstrong Margaret makes an unforgettable impression on the wary lieutenant.
“In the Looking Glass” by Mandy H. Cook is a Pride and Prejudice sequel following the adventures of Charles and Jane Bingley’s intrepid daughter, Fanny—one of 11 siblings—on her 20th birthday. Her peculiar and whimsical escapades result in an encounter with a stranger and slowly his story unfolds with an unexpected twist.
As is typical for novellas, these stories were mostly fast-paced and the happily-ever-afters were at times a bit unbelievable although always satisfying. I was reminded of Mr. Darcy’s statement to Miss Bingley in Pride and Prejudice: “A lady’s imagination is very rapid; it jumps from admiration to love, from love to matrimony in a moment.”
All of the stories were enjoyable, but my favorite of the anthology was the clever and entertaining “You’ve Got to Kiss the Girl” with its unique premise and perfect use of alternating viewpoints. The interactions between Darcy and Elizabeth had me laughing and wishing for more. In a close second-place finish, the swoon-worthy “A Step Too Far” was a charming recreation of the original tale and left me with a contented sigh. The stories about Austen’s secondary characters were particularly enjoyable as I considered each character in a new light and at times caught small references to events from canon.
An anthology by different authors is like a multi-flavored treat, each taste appealing in its own way, but a little bewildering one right after the other. An anthology inspired by Jane Austen’s classic stories, however, is about as smooth a mixture as one can get, with all of the flavors complementing one another in a glorious assortment of her beloved characters swirled in one delicious cup for our enjoyment. My only complaint is that my treat was limited to just six little bites when I could have easily consumed a gallon of each. A Very Austen Romance is a rich exploration of all the charming romance and zesty banter any Austenesque connoisseur would love to savor.
4 out of 5 Regency Stars
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A Very Austen Romance is a collection of stories by Robin Helm, Laura Hile, Wendi Sotis, Barbara Cornthwaite, Chautona Havig, and Mandy H. Cook. Each book is a spin-off from a Jane Austen novel, and as a huge fan of her, I only wish there were more books by her to read! So, when I saw this collection, I knew it would be for me and I wasn’t disappointed. I enjoyed that each of these authors allowed me to dig a little deeper into stories that I have loved for a long time. The book took me back into the lives of characters I adore and brought new insight into characters that had originally been in the background. If you’re a fan of Jane Austen or the individual authors of these books I hope you pick this book up. You won’t be disappointed!
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but was not under any obligation to write a review. All opinions are strictly mine.
Interesting Twists on Minor Jane Austen Characters
My two favorite stories in this collection were with Elizabeth and Darcy, my favorite characters from my favorite JA novel, P&P. The other four stories took minor characters from several other JA novels and played with what their lives might have looked like.
All in all, I enjoyed this collection of Jane Austen fan fiction, though I didn’t realize how many there were and kept being surprised that I still hadn’t finished. 😉
“The King of Hearts” by Robin Helm 7/3/20 ***
Very engaging. I loved the focus on Kitty. As she had matured so much, she was almost a completely different character from the original Austen.
But I was very disappointed in two instances: 1) the suspense about a mysterious count all in black was not resolved. If this is to be resolved in a further story in this collection, I would prefer it not to have been introduced until then. 2) Without spoilers, I made a note and highlight on my Kindle app in chapter 5 that if she didn’t end up with this particular gentleman, I would be very upset. She didn’t. And I’m upset. If this was a blind to completely throw us off the track of who would win her heart, then it worked. But that’s not what I expect from romances. I want to be rooting for the hero who eventually gets the girl. I was rooting for the wrong guy the entire time.
Favorite quotes:
“Kitty dried her tears and blew her nose. ‘I hope you’re right. You usually are, you know.’ Elizabeth laughed. ‘Thank you for expressing that high opinion of me.’” (chapter 6)
“The countess smiled. ‘You already love him, Miss Bennett, and I am glad, for I think he returns those tender feelings. And that is what makes you a perfect match.’” (chapter 8)
“You’ve Got to Kiss the Girl” by Laura Hile 7/7/20 ***
The title doesn’t have anything to do with the story, first of all. Secondly, many of the events and emotions in this story felt contrived and unbelievable. I’m still not sure why Elizabeth started realizing she loved Darcy after all. Thirdly, I didn’t appreciate the continual allusions to a sexual relationship – mostly by Lady Catherine and always without graphic description, but still, it was a little steamier than I like.
However, it was funny and showed Darcy’s sweet chivalry. Definitely memorable, I’ll give it that.
Favorite quotes:
“It is a truth universally acknowledged, [sic] that a widow in possession of a large estate often has something to be crabby about.” (chapter 1)
“Men, Lady Catherine decided, were too pigheaded for their own good.” (chapter 1)
“Darcy would not arrive for another fortnight, but Lady Catherine knew what would happen. Darcy – and Colonel Fitzwilliam, too – would be captivated. With such loveliness to distract him, what hope had Anne of securing Darcy’s heart? None at all.” (chapter 1)
“Miss Bennet’s vivacious good health was an unhappy contrast to Anne’s listlessness. If only Anne would exert herself a little, her health would improve!” (chapter 1)
“Unlike Bingley’s ambitious sister, Elizabeth Bennet did not feel the need to fill every moment with talk.” (chapter 3)
“Money and matrimony! Elizabeth was sick to death of both.” (chapter 6)
“A Step Too Far” by Wendy Sotis 7/25/20 *****
Once I started, I couldn’t stop! And it was one of those wonderful stories that were too short just because I didn’t want it to end! Engaging from the first line to the last, I loved everything about it! There were a few minor typos, but the story was so good that I didn’t even care!
Favorite quotes:
“If he dropped her off the cliff, it would be a problem. She did as he asked.” (chapter 1)
“’Diabolus?’ Elizabeth asked. ‘On a normal day, I would not mind riding a horse named after the devil, but I am unsure I am up to the task today.’” (chapter 1)
“He looked down at the lady in his arms. Yes, Lizzy suited her nicely. He would like to call her Lizzy someday. There went his imagination again!” (chapter 2)
“Really, she meant to be more cautious, but when faced with a choice between being careful and taking a risk, she automatically chose the risk without any further thought.” (chapter 3)
“She was as he thought, very much a lady with no airs.” (chapter 7)
“’Miss Elizabeth, let us be clear. Are you saying that entering into marriage with me would be so repulsive you would not wish it upon anyone?’ Her eyes widened, and she blushed the prettiest shade of pink.” (chapter 7)
“Darcy did not want to look away from Elizabeth, for in this state of indignation, she was a glorious sight to behold.” (chapter 7)
“John Knightley Wins a Wife” by Barbara Cornthwaite 7/26/20 ***
This one took me a while to get into. It took me a while to figure out when this happened and if it was an alternate universe where Emma and Mr. Knightley didn’t get together or something. It’s not. It’s when Emma is 12, and Isabella is 19. I’m not sure I cared too much about Mr. John Knightley, but it was interesting.
“I do not want a silly wife—what reasonable man does? But it is not all I want. I fear I will be hard to please in the matter of matrimony. And Miss Oliver, admirable as she is, does not tempt me to change my single state.” (Mr. George Knightley)
“My temper is not my great perfection. I suppose I am not the most receptive beneficiary of advice.” (Mr. John Knightley)
“Charming Miss Dashwood” by Chautona Havig 7/28/20 ****
Though not my favorite, I was quite “charmed” by this adventure into the life of Margaret Dashwood and what she would have been like grown up. I do think it unlikely for her to have gotten away with such behavior in that time period, but it was entertaining just the same. I’m not sure Conrad was the kind of man I would have picked to win her heart, but it was fascinating to watch the romance hiccup and flounder along. Nicely done enemies to lovers trope. And I especially loved bringing the world of Persuasion into the world of Sense & Sensibility! I wish that had been expanded on more – it would have been such fun to have the Crofts visit the Brandons!
Favorite quotes:
“Never had he met anyone with as many different smiles as Miss Margaret Dashwood possessed.” (chapter 5)
“’Could I be more ridiculous?’ she whispered.” (chapter 9)
“The Colonel and Conrad returned to the library … where Pilgrim’s Progress had taken a direct hit to the spine. Books on either side showed damage as well, but not the kind of destructiveness that Christian’s journey to the Celestial City sustained.”
“In the Looking Glass” by Mandy H. Cook 7/30/20 ***
It wasn’t until chapter 3 that I realized which Fanny this story was about! And I never did figure out the placement of this story into the P&P original. Was it before Charles Bingley even met Mr. Darcy? There was no mention of him at all. And no mention of the Hursts, either, in all the enumeration of her 10 siblings. So I am at a loss what to do with this story.
The heroine is interesting, though I don’t know how relatable or likable she is, especially once you realize who she is in the original Jane Austen version. The hero is just there, not expounded on much. It’s really more an interesting vignette on family life in a big family. The romance was sadly lacking and the ending was completely unbelievable.
Favorite quotes:
“’And is your destination worth the frustration?’ Fanny inquired, curiosity overcoming her sensitivity. ‘A man only gets married once,’ was the droll reply. ‘One hopes.’” (chapter III)
Having read another Austen anthology by many of these same authors, I was eager to enjoy more stories with some favorite characters. I was not disappointed by this latest release and found it the perfect escape from the troubles in today’s world.
The King of Hearts by Robin Helm
Helm immediately drew me in to Kitty’s story and had me rooting for her happy ending. Though my first choice was not her own, I still enjoyed this novella thoroughly and was pleased by the ending. Readers who like to see what may have happened to secondary characters will surely find this one a winner.
You’ve Got to Kiss the Girl by Laura Hile
This was a hilarious romp, perhaps unrealistic, but supremely funny to watch one of the villains unwittingly become catalyst for her worst nightmare, and in a whole different way than the original novel. I enjoyed this different take on Elizabeth and Darcy coming to realize that perhaps he isn’t really the last man she could be prevailed upon to marry, it just takes the right set of circumstances.
A Step Too Far by Wendi Sotis
I enjoyed this different first meeting story of Elizabeth and Darcy. There are still sparks of disagreement but no insults or harsh statements, and it was a sweet tale of finding what you really desire right in front of you. The characters remained true and we get enough glimpses of backstory to see how this would be just as plausible as the original plot.
John Knightly Wins a Wife by Barbara Cornthwaite
I never gave much thought to Mr. Knightly’s brother and Emma’s sister, but I really liked this story of how they got together and glimpses of Emma as a youngster. It was also nice to see the interaction between brothers rather than only the sisters we usually see in Austen.
Charming Miss Dashwood by Chautona Havig
I confess I never gave a whole lot of thought to Margaret Dashwood’s future as she was so much younger than her sisters, but I liked this possible version. I think Havig did a good job remaining true to what we know of her character (especially as portrayed in the 1995 version), but I did find it interesting to find her staying with the Brandons rather than the Ferrars, given Edward’s kindness and their sweet connection in that same movie. I also enjoyed Conrad’s character and how Margaret and he suited despite their differences.
In the Looking Glass by Mandy H. Cook
This particular story deals with one of Charles’ and Jane’s daughters, Fanny, and a very eventful 20th birthday. While I was confused most of the story, the latter part cleared up most of the strange happenings. It was interesting to see one of Austen’s couples as parents, though I often prefer stories with the original characters.
Overall, this is a collection of stories that should please many Austen fans. There is a good variety and lots of fun to be had in these novellas, with bite-sized breaks from our own time and difficulties.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit but was under no obligation to post positive remarks. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
A Very Austen Romance is a collection of Austen Anthologies. This collection includes the following stories:
The King of Hearts by Robin Helm
You’ve Got to Kiss the Girl by Laura Hile
A Step Too Far by Wendi Sotis
John Knightley Wins a Wife by Barbara Cornthwaite
Charming Miss Dashwood by Chautona Havig
In the Looking Glass by Mandy H Cook
It was great being introduced to some new to me authors. I will be looking forward to reading more of their work and hope there will be a full-length novel by them in the near future. This book was such a delight to read and it was over five hundred and sixty pages full of entertainment. If I had to pick a favorite of the six stories from the collection, it would be a hard choice, but I would choose Chautona Havig’s Charming Miss Dashwood.
I am giving A Very Austen Romance five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy clean romance Austen era stories.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
Gather round as you enjoy these wonderful stories that are filled with romance, intriguing characters and a time period where Lords and Lady’s abound. Find a comfy place and be swept away to an era that whispers royalty and memories fit for a lady.
The King of Hearts by Robin Helm
The story is centered around Kitty Bennett at the age of twenty. Every time I read books about this era I always snicker because it was such a disgrace to not be married by a certain age. My goodness everyone is a buzz about the upcoming dance where Kitty will be the center of attention. The dance was fun to read about and how distinguished the gentlemen were. I loved when Kitty said she would marry for love and not money. Bravo to her for following her heart. She has quite a selection of gentlemen vying for her attention. Who will she choose? I enjoyed how the author gave Kitty several gentlemen to get acquainted with. I think a few tried too hard but in the end does love win over power and money?
You’ve Got To Kiss The Girl by Laura Hike
Right away I was hooked on this story. A plot to kidnap Darcy and Anne seemed simple. They would be taken to a place where hopefully a wedding proposal would take place. Lady Catherine was determined that her scheme would work. The house had to be comfortable, well stocked and perhaps a bit romantic.
I think Lady Catherine steals the show in this story. What is she thinking making people waddle on the carpet so it would last longer. Oh my she is becoming quite unquestionably a bit out there . I laughed at all her shenanigans and how her plan, well I mustn’t say more. The story is fun to read and I thought the author did a great job of showing how determined someone is to pick a spouse for someone else. I loved how the story had some funny moments and how a mixup delivers an unexpected romance.
A Step Too Far by Wendi Sotis
This story finds us witnessing the rescue of Elizabeth after she falls from a cliff. Of course if she hadn’t been so curious about her neighbors, perhaps she wouldn’t find herself in this predicament. Darcy stumbles upon her and must now find the easiest way to get her to safety.
Elizabeth is known for her little adventures and this one is no exception. It was nice to read how thoughtful Darcy was as he returned her to her home. The author gives a glimpse into how Darcy and Elizabeth interact with each other as she recovers from her injuries. Do I smell romance in the air? I thought the author painted a lovely picture of two people getting to know each other as they follow their hearts.
John Knightly Wins A Wife by Barbara Cornthwaite
This adventure was very fun to read as John has his hands full trying to keep Miss Maria’s brother out of trouble. I wonder if he agreed to this endeavor a bit too hasty? Perhaps he is hoping to impress Maria and get her attention. Oh how attraction to someone can make us do silly things.
John is starting to see that Arthur is becoming hard to deal with. As I read the story I kept thinking of Arthur as a scoundrel . He is someone who sets their sights on something or someone for their personal gain. It ruffles John’s feathers when Arthur’s attention is drawn to a certain young lady who is rumored to have money or will soon come into money. The prank Arthur pulls on John is in such poor taste. I think there is going to be a little anger brewing within John. Someone needs to set Arthur straight in how to behave himself as a gentleman.
I enjoyed getting to go along with John as he pursues a young woman who will compliment his life perfectly. The author does a great job of letting readers get a glimpse into John’s heart as he intends to make a special someone his wife.
Charming Miss Dashwood by Chautona Havig
I couldn’t wait to see where the author would take her story. It is no secret that I love her writing and her adventurous spirit. Margaret is everything I had hoped for. She is funny in a sarcastic way and her uncanny one liners are perfectly written. I think I see a little of me in her with the sarcasm and little time for nonsense.
I loved how the author was able to put Conrad and Margaret in a position where they began to slowly get to know each other. Conrad had many adventure which I think Margaret enjoyed hearing. I have always wondered what it would be like living during this time period. A woman’s reputation was of the upmost importance and they were usually accompanied by someone who would protect the woman’s honor. It intrigued me that Margaret wanted to help stand guard with Conrad when intruders sneak in the house.
I couldn’t wait to find out why these men were there to invade the home and what danger was ahead. The author had me trying to read faster because I had to know if Conrad and Margaret would finally start to be cordial to each other. It reminds me of that saying, “ I think thou does protest too much.”
The part where the intruders come once again is definitely a look at how brave Margaret is. Her instinct to protect her family and Conrad is admirable and dare I say impressive. The author does a good job of writing a story that not only gives us a glimpse into espionage but a cleverly written storyline that includes a bit of romance. I liked that the romance didn’t overshadow the entire story, but complimented the characters as they developed feelings for one another. I liked that Conrad was a humble man who felt like he didn’t have much to offer a wife. The ending is full of surprises and left this reader wanting to stay awhile longer with Conrad and Margaret.
In The Looking Glass by Mandy H. Cook
Fanny is not happy on this special day of hers. Her birthday reminds her of how old she is getting and feeling like a spinster. She decides to wander away from home and thus starts an adventure she will never forget. The story moves at a fast pace much like Fanny herself does.
The stranger she meets is very intriguing and I couldn’t wait to see how Fanny’s family welcomes him. It takes awhile to find out the strangers name but it is worth the wait. A timepiece given to Fanny as a child holds the key to unlocking a promise made by the stranger . I did enjoy getting to know more about the stranger and his past. The story is good and I liked the ending especially. It is a sweet story that young girls dream about. Love finds you in the most unexpected places.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Several years ago we attended a Home School drama production of Jane Eyre and I became captivated by all things related to Jane Austen. Then, Istarted reading anthologies based on the works of Jane Austen and fell in love with them as well. So when I had the opportunity to review this book, I was excited, especially since Chautona Havig was one of the author’s in this book. I could not wait to read her story. However, in typical fashion for me, I had to read other selections in this book for first. Each story made me fall in love with the characters, the plots, and the settings.
The first story in the collection tells the tale of Kitty, Elizabeth’s younger sister. Kitty comes to life on the pages of this book and shines in her own right. Sometimes we are granted our heart’s desire even when we do not believe we deserve it.
Then we jump to Laura Hile’s story entitled “You’ve Got to Kiss the Girl”. I have to say as I began reading this story all that occupied my mine was Sebastian’s voice singing a song titled the same from The Little Mermaid.
This collection includes a story where Lady Catherine, Mr. Darcy’s aunt schemes to have her nephew Mr. Darcy and her own daughter Anne abducted and left at a property she owns thanks to her late husband, so Mr. Darcy will be forced to marry her. Only Elizabeth is taken by mistake instead, and the two fall in love. So it illustrates the points, the plans of mice and men are often gone astray.
The next story is “A Step Too Far” by Wendy Sotis. I enjoyed getting to know John and Isabelle.
Finally , I made it to the story I had been waiting and wanting to read, “Charming Miss Dashwood” by Chautona Having and it did not disappoint.
The final story in the collection is “In the Looking Glass” by Mindy H. Cook. I also enjoyed reading this book.
All of these books took beloved or memorable characters and created stories that captured my imagination. I can not wait to see if more of these anthologies are written.
So if you enjoy reading historical books that utilize characters from Jane Austen’s books, check out this collection for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from CelebrateLit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
I love this series of fun books. Each contains several novellas that read quickly. Normally there is a theme of some kind to pull them together. I have to say that I have decided that some of these authors are my favorite after reading a few of these novels and then going and binge reading their other works. Of course, Chautona Havig has been a favorite for some time though because I love her Meddlin Madeline books!
I stand in awe of how these women can take timeless characters and develop them into something more. I’m not sure how they come up with their storylines but they need to keep doing it!
It was in the third grade that I read my first unabridged classic book. I started with Jane Eyre but then quickly went to Jane Austen and devoured all of her books that the library had. I loved how she wrote and the characters. It often crossed my mind that maybe there were more books hanging around out there somewhere that would go into more stories so I wouldn’t have to just reread the classics over and over.
And now there are! True, not all of them follow the same style of writing but they all do grab me and suck me into the story so I don’t want to stop reading.
Grab your copy today. You won’t be disappointed in this book of short novellas.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I am not a big Jane Austen fan, so when I was offered a chance to view this 5 book anthology,I wasn’t exactly sure what I’d gotten myself into.
I was very pleased with what I’ve read. These characters have more depth than their counterparts, especially Chautona Havig’s Conrad Thayer and Margaret Dashwood, and Mandy Cook’s Fanny Bingley. I had such a wonderful time with them!
It can’t be easy to be handed a bunch of well loved characters and in keeping with time and place, change how they move, act and be. I am of the persuasion that Austen herself wrote characters that “fit” her time and stature, but her words look down on things from a “snooty” attitude. These 5 authors have taken on a great challenge but have met that challenge gracefully. Highly Recommended 5/5
[disclaimer: I was given a copy of this anthology and have voluntarily read and reviewed it]
I was very much looking forward to reading Charming Miss Dashwood by Chautona Havig. One of her very first books that I read is Allerednic, which takes place in the Regency period, and I have been watching for her to write more for that series. While this is not a part of that series, it was a delightful Regency romance which I greatly enjoyed.
One of the things I was especially grateful for is that while the main character, Margaret, is from Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility, the events here take place ten years later. I loved Margaret – she adored reading and had a propensity for reading in some unusual places!
Another favorite was In the Looking Glass by new-to-me author Mandy H. Cook. Fanny was such a fun character. I loved this picture of the Bingley family years after Charles and Jane married. The antics and amusing traditions were great!
The other stories were good, just not favorites. For two of them it is partly due to the fact that they rewrote the classic tales rather than appending on events before or after. The stories would have probably been better if they hadn’t changed the original – perhaps if they had used a new set of characters I might have enjoyed them more.
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.