Hi readers! I am so excited to welcome back a long-time friend and supporter of Austenesque Reviews, Monica Fairview! (Monica was one of the first authors to ever visit our newbie blog in 2009!) I am thrilled to hear about Monica’s new book – Fortune and Felicity. Its premise of Elizabeth seeking work as a governess is one I love to explore! It feels like a cross between Pride and Prejudice and Jane Eyre when that happens! Monica is here to talk a little bit about governesses and accomplishments. We hope you enjoy!
Firstly, I’d like to send virtual hugs to everyone who’s forced to self-isolate during these difficult times.
And secondly, I’d like to thank Meredith for having me on her blog again. It’s such a pleasure to be back here on Austenesque Reviews after a long break.
Let me start by briefly explaining why I chose the title Fortune and Felicity. As I was writing, I was thinking about the different meanings of the word fortune, from ‘misfortune’ to ‘fortunate’, but I also had a specific phrase running through my mind. It is a truth universally acknowledged that a woman who is accomplished is in search of a fortune. This is, of course, Miss Bingley’s mantra. Elizabeth Bennet’s mantra is quite different. Elizabeth is in search of the second part of the title, felicity, and she consequently thumbs her nose at the social concept of an ‘accomplished’ woman. So, in a way, we have convention and rebellion, ‘fitting in’ vs. ‘defiance,’ and I think a lot of Fortune and Felicity is about Elizabeth trying to work out her position between the two.
One of my favorite scenes in P&P is the library scene at Netherfield. I love it, of course, because 
the sparks are flying between Darcy & Elizabeth, and because Elizabeth ‘dares’ to challenge Mr. Darcy. But when I was researching P&P for Fortune and Felicity, I discovered it was also important because defines the concept of women’s education in the Regency period.
Who is the perfectly ‘accomplished’ woman by society’s standards in P&P? Miss Bingley. Because she has a background in trade, it’s essential for her to fit in with Society’s standards if she wants to find herself a decent husband. Unfortunately for Miss Bingley, Elizabeth’s unconventional approach works better with Mr. Darcy, who sees ‘extensive reading’ as an essential aspect of women’s education. Compare him to Mr. Hurst, who mocks Elizabeth for preferring a book to a card game!
None of the Bennet daughters have had a conventional education. Obviously, they’ve been exposed to some of the things young ladies of their class are supposed to know, but it’s completely haphazard, because they’ve been left to pick and choose. Jane, for example, goes on horseback to Netherfield, but Elizabeth never goes riding, and there’s no sign the other Bennet sisters know how to ride either. As Darcy points out at one point in Fortune and Felicity, walking is only practical if you have a small estate. If you live on a large one like Pemberley, you need to be able to ride, or at least drive a phaeton as Anne does, otherwise you’re too dependent on others.
Another crucial skill is playing the pianoforte. As modern readers, we think of playing an 
instrument as a great skill to develop, but with radio and the internet, it’s not a necessity. But in the Regency, you needed someone to play music so you could practice dancing, or for everyday entertainment. Notice how many important scenes are based around playing the pianoforte. Mary, Miss Bingley, Elizabeth and Georgiana all perform, and their performance is an important aspect of their character.
Yet only Elizabeth and Mary can play. Other essential ‘accomplishments’ are missing as well. None of the Bennet sisters paint, a much-needed ability when there were no photographs, and commissioning a painting was only for the very wealthy. Just remember that the only painting we have of Jane Austen is a watercolor by her sister.
Researching for Fortune and Felicity, I realized how risky the Bennet sisters’ arbitrary education is. They haven’t been trained to do the things expected in their own class. Mr. Darcy sees that clearly. Considering how desperate Mrs. Bennet is to get her daughters married well, you’d have thought she’d give them every possible advantage. That would have included hiring a governess. Instead, she has the girls depend on their looks.
And what if Mr. Bennet dies and the Bennet ladies are cast out of their home? Are they prepared for that? They’d need all the skills I’ve listed to be employed as governesses and more, such as knowing languages. Unfortunately, not one of the sisters qualifies.
That’s where Elizabeth finds herself at the beginning of my novel, Fortune and Felicity. She can’t find a position and is facing destitution. We just have to hope that some fabulously wealthy gentleman will appreciate her abilities and be willing to take a chance on her. 😉
Very interesting, Monica! I’m so used to looking at skills such as painting, horseback riding, music, and sewing through a modern lens that I forget the important uses these skills served during Jane Austen’s time. You’ve reminded me that, although they are labeled as accomplishments, they carry a much greater import than entertainment and proof of eligibility. I cannot wait to see Lizzy as a governess…even without all the necessary “accomplishments,” I’ve always thought Lizzy to be a natural with children! 👩🏻🏫
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~ Book Description ~
In this Pride & Prejudice variation, Elizabeth and Darcy have a second chance to get things right. Will they be able to come together this time, or will pride intervene yet again?
Seven years after Darcy’s disastrous proposal, Darcy is in need, not of a wife, but of a governess for his young daughter. Imagine his surprise when he discovers Elizabeth Bennet on the list of possible candidates provided by the employment agency. The question is, should he take her on as a governess, or would he be playing with fire?
Elizabeth Bennet is forced by her reduced circumstances to take on a position. However, when Mr. Darcy invites her for an interview, she is embarrassed and humiliated. How could she possibly live under the same roof as the man she had rejected so strongly seven years ago?
Whatever decision she makes, there will be a high price to pay… one way or the other.
~ Connect with Monica ~
Twitter ❧ Facebook ❧ Austen Variations
~ About Monica ~
Monica Fairview writes Jane Austen variations and sequels. After graduating from the University 
of Illinois, she worked as a literature professor and then as an acupuncturist in Boston before moving to London.
Monica loves anything to do with the nineteenth century, and obsessively follows every period drama she can find. On rainy days, she loves to watch ‘Pride & Prejudice’ (all adaptations), ‘North & South’, ‘Cranford’, or ‘Downton Abbey’.
Among Monica’s Kindle best-selling novels are Mysterious Mr. Darcy, the Darcy Novels trilogy, two books in the Darcy Cousins series, and the quirky futuristic P&P inspired Steampunk Darcy. She has also published several traditional Regencies.
Apart from her avid historical interests, Monica enjoys reading fantasy and post-apocalyptic novels, but avoids zombies like the plague. She loves to laugh, drink lots of tea, and visit Regency houses, and she is convinced that her two cats can understand everything she says.
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GIVEAWAY TIME!!!
Today Monica brings with her 2 Ebooks of Fortune and Felicity for me to give away to 2 lucky readers!!
To enter this giveaway leave a comment, question, or some love for Monica!
- This giveaway is open residents in the US and UK. Thank you, Monica!
- This giveaway ends April 18th!
- Please enter this contest with just one name and one entry, multiple entries will be disqualified.
I have never read a story like this one where Elizabeth is seeking a position as a governess. Sounds like one I would enjoy. Thanks for the chance to win a copy.
Hello again, Darcy. Very pleased to see you here!
Loved your preview and look forward to reading this new tale. Thanks Meredith for featuring here.
Thank you for stopping by, Jennifer. Glad you liked the preview 🙂
My pleasure, Jennifer! Thank you so much for sharing!
Congratulations on your new book! It sounds like an enjoyable premise. Thanks for the chance to win a copy.
Hello, Mary, a pleasure. If you’d like to read a preview, I have a few chapters up at Austen Variations. https://austenvariations.com/excerpt-fortunefelicity-monica/
I hope there will be a paperback. This story puts a lot of pressure on Elizabeth as she needs to provide for herself. I find this one of the most honest assessments of her lot and wish to see her successful. She is at risk in every way.
There is a paperback, Margaret. You asked just in time. The Pride and Felicity paperback version came out a few hours ago! 🙂
Thank you so much Monica for reminding me of what the bennet ladies had to have to marry or get a job if they don’t. When I read I have to honestly say I don’t give thought to that aspect. Thank for the chance to win a copy of Fortune and Felicity.
Mrs. Bennet is such a comic character that we don’t take her statements of doom and gloom very seriously, but the entailment is really very worrying. So yes, Maria, the Bennet sisters need to marry very quickly. Luckily things work out in P&P!
I agree with Darcy! Elizabeth is the perfect governess for his little daughter! She may not be able to teach her to paint or speak languages but he can hire masters for that when necessary, what Elizabeth can teach her is how to ramble the grounds finding ‘treasures’ and climbing trees. She can also introduce her to childhood books and how to play!
I look forward to reading the reactions of Darcy and his daughter!
Great idea Monica and thanks for sharing this Meredith. Hope you all stay safe.
Hi Glynis, true, but you’re assuming he is going to hire her… That is yet to be seen. 🙂
Thank you for joining me on the tour.
I like the premise of this story. I enjoyed the preview and look forward to reading about what happens with Elizabeth. Thanks for the chance to win a copy of the e-book.
If I were a child, I would love to learn those things from Elizabeth! Hope you are doing well, my friend!
Darcy has a daughter? Most variations in which Elizabeth is hired to be a governess by Darcy it is for Georgiana so this is different. I definitely want to read this and so thank you for a chance to win it. I have read and enjoyed a number of Monica’s stories.
It is a bit different, Sheila. It’s good to see you here, Sheila, and I’m happy to hear you enjoyed my novels. 🙂
I ended up borrowing it from KU and did enjoy it.
Oh my! I have never really given thought to the marked differences in how we respect women between the regency period and now. As was stated, then women had to be able to draw or play piano with some “book learning” thrown in. Now highly educated women are given the greatest respect regardless of their ability to sew! Thanks for the insight and thanks for the chance to win this fabulous book!
It’s always fascinating to dig under the surface and realize how much a specific time period takes for granted, ForeverHis. The good thing about it was that in P&P Mr. Darcy valued Elizabeth for who she was rather than what society expected of her.
I loved the excerpt. Poor Darcy. It really has me needed to read more, so I’ll have to place Fortune and Felicity on my must get list! I’m sure the book will be a great success for you. Thank you for the opportunity of winning a copy.
Hello Lis. Darcy is in a bad situation to start with, but hopefully things will soon begin to look up for him. Thank you for reading the excerpt, and for your kind words.
Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy of this! I’ve read and enjoyed some of your other stories, and this one sounds great.
A pleasure, Coleen!
I loved your introductory reflection on the meaning of fortune and felicity in Regency times. There are so many aspects that have become strange to us! Looking Forward to reading your Story.
Very true, Dorothee. As modern readers we read the novel differently. I’m sure many of the things we assume would puzzle JA exceedingly!
What a wonderful article and I can not wait to read Monica’s book. Thank you for sharing.
Hello again, Becky B. I’m glad you enjoyed the article. 🙂
Congratulations Monica on your new book! Can’t wait to read their first meeting after so many years. Thanks for the chance to win!
A pleasure Cynthia, and many thanks!
I’m looking forward to it. Whether I win it or not is another thing, these variations have been keeping me company for a few years now and I’m still enjoying them, they’re some of my best friends.
Hi Jean, it’s lovely to know that. It’s so nice to be able to part of such a supportive community of like-minded people.
Beautifully said, Jean! I feel the same way – I don’t think I will ever tire of them!
What a fun plot! I would like to read this one, Monica!
Thank you, Era. Wishing luck in the win!
In this time of self isolation what the world truly needs is another Monica Fairview book – and thank goodness. Thank you, Monica: this looks to be an intriguing premise and a wonderful read. Congratulations and best of luck with “Fortune and Felicity”.
Awww. That’s very sweet. Thank you, Lilyane! I’ll admit that cheered me up no end. I hope you’re staying well and safe in this desperate times.
Hear, hear!! I am so happy that Monica has a new book – especially during this time!
I have read Monica’s books from way back. It sounds like this one will be very enjoyable as well. I always learn so much from Monica and it’s one of the many things I admire about her writing style. I loved your introduction here. I’d love to read this novel and it’s so good to see you on here again.
Hello again, Suzan. Very glad to be back! Thank you so much for your kind words!
I have been following the postings of the early chapters and look forward to reading the book. I was so sure in the Prologue that Darcy was riding to Elizabeth – was I wrong! Elizabeth will be the perfect governess – and mother. I am anxious to see how the love story evolves. Thank you for the story Monica. And thanks for the opportunity to win a copy.
Moamac — I’m really happy to hear you’ve been following along. Alas, Darcy was too hurt to ride to see Elizabeth. He lost his chance. As long as there is hope…
The book sounds very interesting. Recently, I had reason to think about how ill prepared the Bennet daughters are to fend for themselves. Mrs B really does just plan for them all to marry, which was a risky stance to take, especially with them living in a small country neighbourhood.
Thank you, Lucy. I think we see most of the novel from Lizzy’s point of view, so it’s hard for us to consider the reality of her situation. Still, she does end up with Mr. Darcy in P&P, so things do work out for her.
It just goes to show you how indifferent everyone back then was about educating women.
So happy Monica is back here too Meredith! I am excited to read this novel and you, Monica, have made some wonderful points why women needed to be accomplished. But I figure most of us would meet Mr. Darcy’s standards as we all read extensively! Congratulations again!
So true, Carole! I think we can definitely be considered ‘accomplished’. Thanks for joining me on my Fortune and Felicity tour!
Haha! Yes, Carole, and his opinion is the one that truly matters!
I love stories in which Elizabeth becomes a governess for Darcy’s child(ren). I am crossing my fingers and hoping hard to win an e-copy!! 😀
Take care, stay safe, and stay well!
Warmly,
Susanne 🙂
Hello Susanne — another familiar face! It’s great to see so many familiar people here. I’ll cross my toes for you as well!
Thanks to Meredith for hosting [hello to your Mr. Bingley]. I love this trope and wish Monica all the best in the launch of this work. Blessings on its success. Thank you for the generous giveaway. Good luck to all in the drawing. Keep safe everyone.
Thank you, J.W. ! You keep safe, too.
Me too, Jeanne! I can’t wait to see Monica’s portrayal of Elizabeth in this role!
Thank you for a look into the book. That’s why we love Mr. FD. He loves EB even with only a few attributes they regarded highly at that time. He just simply loves her for being her. I can’t wait to know more the rest of the story.
Thank you for the chance to wsin a copy.
Hello buturot, lovely to see you again on the tour. It’s really nice to see a familiar face/name as I move along!
I read the first few chapters that were posted, and really want to see what happens next! Please enter me in the giveaway.
So pleased you enjoyed the chapters I posted, Lois. Good luck!
I look forward to this book. Among my favorites are 2nd chance stories and those with Elizabeth as a governess or companion. Here Lizzy is hired despite lacking accomplishments.
Hello Donna. Second chance stories are among my favorites, too. So do you like Persuasion as well?
What a great post, Monica. 🙂 You really have me thinking about the importance on each accomplishment a woman should have in her repertoire. I never gave much thought to the other Bennet girls not knowing how to play the piano, ride horseback, and paint. Fortune and Felicity sounds like a fun variation. Can’t wait to read it. And thanks for the giveaway too. 🙂
Jakki!!! Hello dear friend! So happy to see you here as well. 🙂 And I agree, I felt the same way until I read Monica’s post!
Hello, Jakki — so nice to see here. I’ll be in touch! 😉
It’s a pleasure and so interesting when your share your thoughts and reasoning behind what your write 🙂
Thank you, Deborah! 🙂
Hello Meredith, I know I’m too late for the giveaway but I still wanted to comment and say that I’m so glad to see a new Monica Fairview book available. And I can’t wait to read this one, I love this kind of plot. Best of luck to Monica on this new publication.
I hope you and Mr. Bingley are having a lovely Sunday, Meredith. We had snow earlier this past week! But it’s been gorgeous for the past two days–back to Spring again–hopefully for good this time. 😀 You and Mr. B must be armchair traveling, planning your next 12 trips!! Well, when I see the new photos I’ll know things are getting back to normal.
Hello Michelle — very pleased to see your comment. Many thanks for your good wishes. Hope the Spring weather lasts for you…