Happy Monday, friends! I am happy to welcome back author Jayne Bamber to Austenesque Reviews today! As you may already know, Jayne has written so many Austenesque stories. Some of her recent releases include: Outmatched, Madness in Meryton, and NorthFanger! And today, Jayne is on tour celebrating her next soon-to-be published Pride and Prejudice variation! Jayne is stopping by to answer some of my questions in a fun interview, we hope you enjoy!
Welcome, Jayne! So lovely of you to pop by for a little tête-à-tête today! I am really excited about your new novel that will soon be released – Five Daughters Out at Once – and I cannot wait to learn more about it! How about we start by talking about what inspired the premise for this story? How did it all come about?
Thanks Meredith – it’s an honor to be back again for book #8 🙂 Five Daughters Out at Once will be coming to Kindle on April 7th.
This book started with the title, actually. The quote of Lady Catherine, when she is so shocked to hear
that all of the Bennet girls are out in society – I imagined her having charge of them under such circumstances, and how she would likely be thoroughly convinced she was doing a great job of it. From there, I conceived the circumstances that might bring such a thing about, and ran with the idea.
Or course should would be convinced of such a thing! I really love the idea of Lady Catherine coming to Meryton and taking the Bennet sisters under her wing – that just sounds like some brilliant amusement and drama right there! How much fun was it to write about Lady C in this situation and interacting with these characters? She is such a strong personality – does that make her easier or harder to write for?
I love this kind of character – from Downton Abbey’s Lady Violet to Lucille Bluth from Arrested Development, sassy matriarchs are my jam, so writing Lady Catherine has been a blast! For me, her personality makes it easier to write her. Lady Catherine is a confident woman who expects everything she says to strike admiration into the heart of everyone listening – Darcy points out that he and Lizzy are both like this as well, and I like to think that Lady Catherine is self-aware enough to have a sense of humor about this trait of hers. I’ve always been a huge Oscar Wilde fan, so sometimes I try to image what he would have to say about her when writing her dialogue.
Haha! I love the sassy matriarchs you mentioned! They would be quite an interesting trio! What are your thoughts regarding Regency customs for young ladies being out? Do you feel Mrs. Bennet was a little misguided to let all her daughters be out in society at once, or do you agree with Elizabeth that it wouldn’t be fair to younger siblings if they spent years missing out on their share of opportunities and amusements?
I think that they’re both right, though for very different reasons. Lizzy sort of channels her father’s reasoning, probably ironically so, in pointing out that the younger sisters would make their older sisters miserable, out of envy and spite, if they were not included in the fun, but it also shows that she loves her sisters despite their immaturity and other flaws, and she really does want them to be happy and entertained, even if it leads to occasional embarrassment for her and Jane. Mrs. Bennet’s motivation is more of a numbers game, to me – she knows her daughter each have their own unique personality and charms, and having them all out gives the eligible gentlemen more options to choose from; if they don’t like Jane’s beauty or Lizzy’s wit, maybe Lydia’s flirting or Kitty’s -coughing?- will suit them better. She’s playing the odds, because they’re desperate.
That does make sense. Kind of like the throwing multiple wet paper towels at the wall and hoping one will stick? 😜 I know from your other books that you are a fan of character crossovers and mash-ups, will we see some of that in this story?
Oh, yes! This is something else I really enjoy doing. I think I must have some Emma Woodhouse in me, to always be playing matchmake like this. The plot device of Lady Catherine taking charge of the Bennet girls lends itself easily to crossovers – the Lady Catherine of my imagination is well-connected in society, with friends such as Mrs. Ferrars, Mrs. Churchill, Lady Bertram, and General Tilney – and it soon occurs to her what a fine thing it is for “her girls” that her friends have so many single sons!
Oh that sounds so exciting! I love the idea of all these characters being friends with each other! How about we switch it up with some Quick-Fire Questions?
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Which Bennet sister do you best identify with? Jane – she tries to see the good in everyone, and her idea of flirting is just a big goofy smile.
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Would you rather have Mrs. Bennet or Lady Catherine as your guardian? Hands down, Lady Catherine!
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Would you rather attend a house party in the country or spend a month in London or Bath? London! I have always wished I could see Vauxhall as it was in the Regency era (I lost my mind during the Vauxhall scene in Bridgerton LOL)
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What do you like most about Lady Catherine? She’s just a great proficient!
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Which Jane Austen couple would you like to rematch and how? I like splitting up Jane and Bingley. I have matched Jane with Collins, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and even had her dally with Wickham, but I am very proud of the match she makes in Five Daughters Out at Once. I have already paired Bingley with Mary Bennet, Anne de Bourgh, and once had him pursue Lizzy unsuccessfully. He does not appear in Five Daughters, but whenever I can manage it, I think he’d make a great partner for Emma Woodhouse, possessing all the traits she admires in Frank Churchill, without any of the selfish deceit.
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Are there any characters (from non-Jane Austen books) that you’d love to see crossover into an Austenesque story? I love this question! With ‘The Great Gatsby’ now in the public domain, that could be lots of fun.
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If you were to meet Jane Austen, what would you like to hear her say? I would love to know what she thinks of the JAFF community, then sip some tea and throw shade on the Prince Regent
Love it!!! Such terrific and fun answers! Thank you so much for taking part in this interview, Jayne! I wish you all the best with your upcoming release of Five Daughters Out at Once! I can’t wait to see how Lady C manages the Bennet girls!
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Connect with Jayne
GIVEAWAY TIME!!!
Jayne is kindly offering an ebook giveaway of Five Daughters Out at Once, in conjunction with her blog tour!
To enter this giveaway, leave a comment for Jayne and fill out the Rafflecopter form below.
- This giveaway is open worldwide. Thank you, Jayne!
- This giveaway will end April 5th!
Be sure to check out the rest of Jayne’s tour!
This is an interesting concept. I am thinking especially about how she would manage Lydia. Even Elizabeth has her own opinions so will she allow herself to be guided? Thanks for a chance to win a copy.
Lydia is definitely a handful in this tale, inspiring Lady Catherine to say things like:
“Young people! Well, much as you all confound me, it is a balm to my spirits – ahem, Miss Lydia, my dear, another time we must practice a more musical, feminine style of laughter – show her what I mean, Georgiana – yes, that is better – well, Miss Lizzy, I am pleased to have a house so full of youth. Another cup of coffee – you, there, thank you – yes, another cup of coffee and I shall be quite content to pass the idle hours with you all, for I delight in company.”
Wow! Such a plethora of single men! I’m happy with any combination as long as Elizabeth is with Darcy, that’s an absolute must.
I’ve added this to my ever increasing list and will buy asap. I won’t win one as I’m never entering Rafflecopter giveaways again!
Thank you for this lovely interview!
Thank you, Glynis!
Speaking of crossovers, the bachelors Sherlock Holmes and John Watson would be fun to bring into the mix and bring a bit of mystery and observation to the society of P&P.
That’s a very intriguing notion! The Case of the Boiled Potatoes, perhaps?
Every time I hear that, I have to add in my head – What?!? and none of them married…?? LOL
I love variations that have Lady C as a more dynamic character, not just a selfish old woman, out for herself. So thank you for that!! Good luck with the release!
Thanks, Sam – good luck in the giveaway!
This book sounds like such fun! As much as I love hating Lady Catherine, I also adore the idea of her as a sassy matriarch. Congrats on the upcoming release, and thanks for such a witty interview, Jayne and Meredith!
Thanks Christina 🙂
Sounds like a great read! Looking forward to it. Thanks for the post.
Happy Reading!
Thanks, Meredith, for this fun post and you certainly asked great questions.
Congratulations, Jayne on this launch of your new book. Thanks for the generous giveaway. Good luck to all in the drawing. I have added it to my wish-list. I am looking forward to reading it. Lady Catherine is always a fun read when she is in high dungeon or matchmaking mode. La, help those poor Bennet girls.
You mentioned that you were a fan of Oscar Wilde. I love the 2002 movie version of ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ with Colin Firth [of course] but the dialogue given to Lady Bracknell [Judi Dench] was superb. She brought such snobbery to the language that I just loved it.
Oh, one more thing, did you notice in your discussion above regarding Mrs. Bennet talking about her daughters… ‘if they don’t like Jane’s beauty or Lizzy’s wit, maybe Lydia’s flirting or Kitty’s -coughing?- will suit them better.’ There was no mention of poor Mary, bless her heart. I hope Lady Catherine takes care of her. LOL!
Blessings, everyone, stay safe and healthy.
The Colin Firth “Earnest” is so wonderful!
Mary will end this tale as happily as any of her sisters. Mrs. Bennet might have overlooked her, but Lady Catherine will take wonderful care of her, I promise!
I always love the rapid fire questions and answers. I did not know The Great Gatsby is now in public domain. Lady C will be a real hoot in Meryton. Good Luck Mr. and Mrs. Bennet.
RIP Mr. & Mrs. Bennet – but the girls will be in good hands with Lady Catherine, she is a force to be reckoned with!
Hi Jayne!
I love the premise of your novel and I know I’ll have fun with this story 😉
When I read the references to Lady Violet and Oscar Wilde I knew your new book would be my cup of tea LOL
Your answers to Meredith’s questions have made me think about some matters I didn’t notice before like the fact of Mr Bingley looking like Frank Churchill but without his faults…Emma would have found an ideal partner in Mr Bingley but maybe she could manipulate him too much! Poor Mr Bingley! LOL
I’m looking forward to seeing Lady C managing the five Bennet sisters (in special Lidya) 😉
Thanks for the giveaway!
P.S gorgeous cover!
P.S. Meredith, bravo for your interesting questions 😉
Thanks Teresa! I have some big plans for Lydia in this book, something pretty unusual, but exciting.
LOL just thinking more about Emma and Bingley ending up together, and how Caroline would fawn over Knightley, probably!
Delightful interview, as always, Meredith! Loved your answers Jayne and I am looking forward to reading how the all knowing Lady Catherine handles the five Bennet daughters and Mr. Collins! I just read the book description on Amazon and there are many intriguing tidbits I need to learn about! Congratulations and I will be adding this one to my pile! My book order for April just got a whole lot longer!
Thanks Carole – Happy Reading!
This sounds like a lot of fun! As long as the main focus is still on ODC I enjoy to see what happens too the other sisters, too. And I’m always glad when Jane doesn’t end up with Bingley!
Darcy and Lizzy are certainly the main focus, but I have high hopes that some of the side-plots will be just as enjoyable for readers.
Now this story should be fun! Lady Catherine actually taking a vested interest in the Bennet girls should prove an entertaining read for sure! Can’t wait to read this one.
Thanks Christina!
I look forward to reading about this Lady Catherine. Good luck with the new release!
Lady C is one of a kind that’s for sure. The picture of her hosting some sort of reality dating game amuses me greatly.
Thanks Robin, good luck in the giveaway!
Wow, that is interesting questions and responses. I wonder who Jane will be paired up in this story.
Thank you for the chance to win a copy of your book
Good luck to you in the giveaway 🙂
What a fascinating idea.
Thank you, Ann-Marie!
Too fun! I can’t wait to find out what mischief lurks ahead.. Congratulations.
Thank you, Jennifer. Happy Reading!
What a unique twist! Look forward to reading this one. Thanks for the chance to win a copy.
Thanks Stephanie! Good Luck in the giveaway 🙂
I love stories where Lady Catherine has redeeming qualities. I am imagining Lydia will not be a fan of this arrangement at all though. I look forward to reading this
Lydia is gonna take us on a wild ride, that’s for sure!
What an intriguing concept! I love the idea of Lady Catherine being involved with the Bennet girls. I can’t wait to see what ensues! Thanks for the chance to win a copy! Great q&a, too!
Thanks Pam, good luck in the giveaway!
Sounds like a fun and nice story, but with tragic backstory. Would love to read it.
Congratulations, Jayne! A very novel idea to have Lady Catherine in charge of the Bennet girls, I love it! We already know that she butts heads with Elizabeth but I think we can safely add Lydia to that mix, and maybe even Mary. Must read your book to find out.
Thanks so much for the giveaway opportunity!
OH! I love, love, love the premise for this book. Thank you for the chance to win. I hope I do b/c it sounds so good!