Charlotte Collins Contemplates Her Contentment and Choices

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Source: Review Copy from Publisher

TYPE OF NOVEL: Secondary Character, Pride and Prejudice Sequel

TIME FRAME: Begins 3 years after the close of Pride and Prejudice

SYNOPSIS: What happens to Charlotte after the close of Pride and Prejudice? Does she find tolerable contentment with Mr. Collins? Does she have any regrets? Or do motherhood, being in charge of her own establishment, and her role as a clergyman’s wife provide such sources of happiness that she has “no cause to repine?” Charlotte is known for making a pragmatic choice and not being romantic, but some years later finds Charlotte reflecting on her choices, comparing her situation to Elizabeth Darcy’s and her sister’s, and forming an unexpected friendship that challenges Charlotte’s preconceived ideas of happiness and companionship.

WHAT I LOVED:

• Charlotte’s POV: Told in first person POV, this story gives such an intimate understanding of the life of a woman who chose a marriage of convenience at the age of twenty-seven. Charlotte’s straightforward manner, honesty about herself, and clearsighted candidness all make her a reliable and extremely likable narrator. I especially loved the chance to observe all of Charlotte’s inner thoughts and private reactions. Very rarely does Charlotte show or express her true feelings, so this was a brilliant way for Molly Greeley to have her readers understand, sympathize, and connect with Charlotte.

• Charlotte’s Unique Transitions: In all my years of reading Pride and Prejudice related stories I have never thought about Charlotte’s evolution from the daughter of a successful tradesman to the daughter of knighted and newly-minted gentleman. What a challenging and awkward transition for Charlotte to make – she was raised as a tradesman’s daughter, with quite a different expectation of where life might take her. And then she was elevated into new society – but without the accomplishments, dowry, and training she needs. Oh, poor Charlotte! I never realized!

• Weaving of Time: Providing readers some added insight into Charlotte’s life and experiences, there are several important flashbacks shared throughout this tale. I loved how Molly Greeley took the time to illustrate these significant moments in Charlotte’s past. And I loved how these scenes fleshed out Charlotte’s story and brought even deeper understanding to her personality and actions.

• Thoughtful and Reflective: This story is full of compelling introspection that helped create a sensitive and pensive tone which I quite loved. Throughout this story Charlotte grows in her perception and understanding of love and herself, and I greatly appreciated being privy to all her contemplations and self-analysis.

• Relationships: I so admired how Molly Greeley depicted the relationships Charlotte has with others in this novel. Her choices were excellent – the humorous beginning to her friendship with young Elizabeth Bennet, the seemingly unbreachable distance between her and Mr. Collins, her cherished moments with her young daughter, and the surprising bond she feels with Mr. Travis. (Oh how I loved Mr. Travis and his father!!)

WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:

I couldn’t possibly think of one single thing.

CONCLUSION:

Not only is The Clergyman’s Wife an exceptionally-crafted story that shines a spotlight on sensible and pragmatic Charlotte Collins, it is an understated, poignant, and earnest depiction of the limited choices women of this era faced and what happens when dreams are sacrificed and convictions begin to change. Congratulations to Molly Greeley, for her sensitive and exquisite debut!!

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Did you read Molly Greeley’s lovely post yesterday about her daughter and overcoming her fears? 

Check it out HERE and enter the giveaway for a copy of The Clergyman’s Wife.