Navigating a New Relationship

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Source: Review Copy from Author

TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Modern Adaptation

NOTE: This is volume two in a three volume series. It will be necessary to read all three books in succession to attain the story’s conclusion.

SETTING: Great Diamond Island, Maine Present-Day

SYNOPSIS:

Basking in their new life, new home, and new relationships Will Darcy and his five-year-old son, Jack, couldn’t be happier with their move to Great Diamond Island. Especially since it brought Elizabeth Bennet into their lives. Will and Elizabeth both experienced tragic and difficult pasts, and neither of them were expecting to find a relationship that would heal their broken pieces and bring them such fullness and joy. Their summer together in Maine is filled with outdoor adventures, family visits, deepening intimacy, and growing passion. But how do Elizabeth’s and Will’s extended families and friends react to their relationship? And what happens when some outside forces try to meddle and injure this newfound love?

WHAT I LOVED:

• Uncharted Waters: Discussing your feelings, sharing your deepest self, building a life together – Will and Elizabeth are experiencing all these momentous developments in their new relationship. And while they may have been here before in their pasts, it feels new and uncharted for them. I thought Cat Andrews beautifully and perceptively portrayed their emotions and reactions through this new relationship – their hesitancy, vulnerability, and mistakes. I loved witnessing all the small steps, unexpected turbulence, and smooth sailing in this relationship.

• Intriguing Character Deviations: I am delighted to see Cat Andrews has taken some creative liberties with some of Jane Austen’s characters in this story. Making some alterations with characters makes this modern-day adaptation stand out. But what is great about these differences is that they still feel credible and fitting. Some of the intriguing deviations are Elizabeth being married to Bill Collins and Will Darcy marrying Anne de Bourgh, but there are other deviations that are even more unique concerning Richard Fitzwilliam and Jane Bennet.

• External Relationships: Even though, Will, Elizabeth, and Jack, are mostly blissfully content in their little bubble of love and family, they do face some challenges from other people in their lives. These challenges never felt contrived or outlandish, and I enjoyed observing how Will, Elizabeth, and Jack would face each negative force in their lives.

• Not Perfect: I love the authenticity and honesty in all the characters of this series – especially Will and Elizabeth. I love that they have flaws and make mistakes, and that they sometimes react to situations badly or too precipitately. I appreciate that they aren’t portrayed as being perfect and as always handling and doing everything right. I love that they feel like such real and genuine people. I think their imperfections and mistakes make me love them even more.

• Beautifully Blended: Penning a three-book series that leisurely depicts the journey of one couple (with subplots of other relationships) is no mean feat, and I am continually impressed by how masterfully Cat Andrews constructs this saga. The balance and pacing always feel just right. I love how Ms. Andrew’s skillfully blends together impassioned affection, charming lightheartedness, and emotional tension within this tale. In addition, I thoroughly enjoy Ms. Andrews’ inviting and comfortable tone, and the sense of attachment I feel developing as I read this series.

WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:

• …silence…*crickets*

SECOND NOTE: In this story there are several romantic interludes and intimate scenes. Recommended for mature audiences.

CONCLUSION:

I am utterly consumed by this saga! The stirring romance and tension does not abate in the second volume of this trilogy, and I am completely enthralled by these characters, their lives, and the charming island in which they live! I am in love with everything about this series!

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~ My review of Sanctuary: Volume One ~