A Kitty Bennet That We Can Admire and Love!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Author
Out of all the Bennet sisters, Kitty is perhaps the sister that is the least developed and defined by Jane Austen. Described as “weak-spirited, irritable, and completely under Lydia’s guidance,” she doesn’t seem to possess any unique characteristics or admirable marks of distinction (unless you count being an indiscriminate cougher!) And as far as Austenesque novels go, to date it would seem that both Mary and Lydia are more frequently chosen as heroines over poor, unpopular Kitty. Which is why I am so elated and thankful that Alexa Adams has penned a sequel to her Pride and Prejudice variation, First Impressions, that features Kitty Bennet as the heroine!
At the close of First Impressions with Kitty and Lydia being sent to a ladies school in Bath, it would seem that “two of the silliest girls in the country” were on the path to improvement! As one might expect, one sister made the most of this rare opportunity and worked hard with her studies, while the other remained preoccupied with flirting, frivolity, and fun. Because of Kitty’s remarkable progress with her accomplishments and manners, she is invited to London to accompany Georgiana Darcy during her season. As bosom friend and sister to the illustrious Darcys, Kitty anticipates a season full of entertainment, excitement, and elegance. What she doesn’t expect is to be plagued by one of the most presumptuous, eccentric, and eligible bachelors in town!
How I adored this novel! As with First Impressions, I was greatly impressed with Alexa Adams adept use of satirical tone and Austenesque language. Her narratives and asides cannot help but make one think of Jane Austen and her delight in the imperfections and follies of others. But my favorite aspect of this book was the development and fleshed-out characterization of Kitty Bennet! Ms. Adams delved into Kitty’s psyche and thoroughly explored this oft forgotten character. With her modesty, more reserved nature, understandable insecurities, and romantic heart – Kitty easily won my heart and compassion. Furthermore, I greatly enjoyed observing how spending time with the Darcys (during her summer and winter holidays) has impacted and influenced Kitty’s development. Especially Mr. Darcy, who can be credited with triggering the most significant change in Kitty’s character. I loved witnessing the mutual respect and high opinion these two had for each other.
However, Kitty’s admirable transformation isn’t the only aspect of this novel I enjoyed. Far from it! The hero, Sir James Stratton, with his impulsiveness and absurdities, charmingly reminds one of Georgette Heyer’s characters. In addition, Mr. Bennet, with his matchmaking machinations and perverse delight in teasing young men in love, provides much sport and mirth. Moreover, Caroline and Lydia, per their usual, enhance the drama of the story with their schemes and shenanigans. All of these amusing and intriguing components mixed in with Alexa Adams’ brilliant prose and gentle wit create a sequel that is delightful, diverting, and very hard to put down! I highly recommend!
9 out of 30 completed!
What do you think? Is this a book you’d like to read??
Maybe it’s a book you’d like to win??? Check out Alexa’s guest post HERE and enter the giveaway! You know you want to!
Definitely sounds like a book I would like to read and I have just gone and added it to my wish list at amazon
I hope you get a chance to read it soon, Vesper! 🙂
I’m grinning from ear to ear! What a glorious review! Thank you so much, Meredith. Your approval bestows endless confidence.
I’m so glad, Alexa! I really enjoy your novels and can’t wait until you publish some more!
I love the idea of Kitty as a more developed character. I’ve added this book to my wish list.
Finding a novel all about Kitty is pretty rare, isn’t it? I hope you get the chance to read it soon!
This sounds like such a great book — I love the idea of a novel focused on Kitty — she’s such a shadowy character!
She is indeed! And yes, as you can tell from my review, Second Glances is a GREAT book!
I knew this was a sequel but I didn’t realize til now that it focuses on Kitty – How exciting! I have a soft spot for Kitty moreso than Mary or (definitely) Lydia because I feel like she has more room to grow. I always imagine her developing a very close sibling bond with Darcy as she matures.
Yes, I agree, Monica! I think Kitty deserves our compassion and sympathies more than her siblings. I think will greatly enjoy this one!
I had a chance to read this one and loved it too. Sir James is a great new character creation.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
I’m so glad you loved this one too, Sophia Rose! And I enjoyed reading your review! Sir James was a very lovable character, wasn’t he?