What if Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy Returned to Netherfield For Christmas?
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Purchased
When strong snowstorms threaten traveling north Mr. Bingley decides to return to Netherfield for the holiday season and invites the family of his business associate (who has just done him a very good turn) and the Darcy siblings (who aren’t able to venture to Pemberley because of the snow). And as coincidence would have it, Mr. Bingley’s business associate is none other than Mr. Gardiner! So a merry gathering descends upon Netherfield and some unexpected discoveries are instantly made: Mr. Bingley discovers that Jane might not be as indifferent to him as some believed her to be, Mr. Darcy discovers that the Bennets, and in particular, Elizabeth Bennet, believe him arrogant and disdainful, and Elizabeth Bennet discovers a new side of Mr. Darcy as she observes his interactions with both his sister and her young cousins.
This novella is utterly charming! I loved the unexpected developments and the sweet scenes they produced. Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet are very much at the heart of this story, alongside with little Emily and Victoria Gardiner, who are quick to observe and assess their cousins’ suitors and freely share their opinions! These little dears were probably my favorite aspect of this story! I loved their romantic hearts and interests in their cousins’ affairs. They are exceptionally good judges of character – more so then their cousin at first! And I especially loved their scenes with Mr. Darcy and how he was so gentle and playful with them. Talk about heartwarming and endearing scenes!
Another element I loved about this novella was all the cheerful and charming bits of Christmas and childhood memories. I loved the gift-giving and playtime in the snow, and I loved seeing both Elizabeth and Darcy share personal memories with the girls. In addition, I enjoyed how Ms. Schroeder intertwined the Christmas carol “God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman” with this story and used lyrics from the song as fitting chapter titles. As with most of the novellas I read, I did wish for this story to be extended just a little bit more. I enjoyed how Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s relationship was evolving and Elizabeth’s new understanding about Mr. Wickham, and I wouldn’t have minded seeing some of these scenes drawn out some.
An Unexpected Merry Gentleman is a wonderful choice for readers who are looking for a quick yet heartwarming tale they can enjoy in between their busy holiday-hustle-and-bustle and merry-making! A sincere and sweet Pride and Prejudice novella full of spirit! I highly recommend!
That has got to be the sweetest cover. Well done on its choice. I have this book and am behind in reading my Christmas stories. After reading this review… I just may have to push it forward in front of the other stories. Sorry, guys… this one is next.
Thanks to Meredith for hosting and giving us such a delightful review [hello to your Mr. Bingley].
Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays to everyone in the manner in which you celebrate. Blessings, stay safe, be healthy, and peace to all.
It truly is, Jeanne!
Oh yes! You should definitely read this one next, friend! I think you will love it!
Sounds delightful! I’m such a fan of Anngela’s – this sounds like perfect reading for the holiday season – thank you SO much for sharing this review just in time!
Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year to you and Mr. Bingley!
Oh yay! I am so glad you think so! I hope you get the chance to read this lovely story this holiday season!
I love her stories and this premise makes me want to read this one in particular.
It is so endearing! I so love that Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley returned for Christmas!
I will have to check this one out. Great review. Lovely cover.
You definitely should, Sheila! I know you will read it one day and love it!
It does sound like a lovely charmer, Meredith.
For sure! Thanks so much for checking out my review, Sophia!
I loved this book! Definitely five stars! The Gardiner children were adorable and so helpful! I love how Elizabeth and Darcy realised their errors and changed their opinions accordingly! Definitely one to reread!
Weren’t they the best?! I loved how many different ways they inadvertently helped Darcy and Elizabeth out!
I read this when it was first published, and all I remember is that I loved it and found it truly charming. I guess it’s time to reread. Thank you for bringing this to our attention so that those who haven’t read it yet, will see this and be inspired to get it.
I loved the holiday greetings from J.W. Garrett, they were perfect. We’re getting so close to Christmas and many are already celebrating their own holiday. God Bless us every one.
You remembered correctly, Michelle! It will definitely be one I reread!
Agreed! I hope everyone is enjoy a merry and bright holiday season!!!
What a charming cover!
denise
It is! So sweet! I love these two little dears!
It’s such a heartwarming story! I’ll try to read it between hustle and bustle! LOL
I wouldn’t mind to spend Christmas with such a cheerful people 😉
I agree with J W Garrett: it’s the sweetest cover!
Congrats Anngela!
Indeed, Teresa! I love reading novellas in December! I think spending Christmas with the Bennets, Gardiners, and Bingleys sounds wonderful!
This makes me so happy to see
It was so well received. Congratulations, Anngela Schroeder!