Of Mischief and Matchmaking Men

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: Review Copy from Author

Type of Novel: Pride and Prejudice Variation

THE PREMISE: Lord Matlock invites himself and his son to travel along with Mr. Darcy to Netherfield to pay a visit to his dear old friend, Mr. Bennet. The two immediately begin to employ their usual wagers and pranks against each other, but then begin to channel their mischief into matchmaking as they believe a certain couple is in need of some assistance….

WHAT I LOVED:

• The Plots and Ploys: What a riot! I love the premise for this variation and I love the relationship it explored. Mr. Bennet is besties with Lord Matlock? Lord Matlock and Mr. Bennet engage in playful shenanigans? The young characters in this story fall victim to misadventures and misguided matchmaking schemes? Sounds wonderfully unique, doesn’t it? Well, that’s because it is!

• Lord Matlock: I know! How odd to say that Lord Matlock is what I loved most about this tale! He is irrepressible, jocular, an instigator, and a romantic. He exasperates his family yet is endearing with his antics. I appreciated the history and depth given to this character. And I especially enjoyed the portrayal of friendship between Lord Matlock and Mr. Bennet – how they would bicker and acknowledge the differences in their natures, yet underneath you could tell there was a firm foundation of attachment and brotherly affection.
• Darcy and Elizabeth: Such a clever duo! This pair is quite talented at inadvertently and intentionally thwarting any plots or pranks against them. It was so entertaining to witness how they would outsmart the others, yet also sometimes fall into some traps! I also enjoyed the gradual changes of their feelings and opinions for each other. I am so glad the author segmented the story to show not only Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s POV during scenes, but also Lord Matlock’s and Mr. Bennet’s (and that she always labeled the change in POV!)

• Same Scene, New Lens: Ms. Courtney cleverly ties her original story of matchmaking and mischief into actual occurrences that take place in Pride and Prejudice, such as Darcy’s insult at the Meryton Assembly, Jane’s visit to Netherfield, and Elizabeth being left alone with Mr. Darcy for a half hour yet neither of them speaking. It was interesting to see scenes we are familiar with, yet learn the origins of these scenes or situations maybe came from another cause or source.

• House Party!: The overall atmosphere of this story is pure fun. It felt like a spontaneous house party descended on Netherfield and the days were full of pleasure-seeking and pranks. I loved seeing all these characters mixed together and the activities they enjoyed. I will add that the Bingleys are incredibly hospitable to host and entertain all of these guests and their new neighbors.

WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:

• Some Pacing and Balance: There were some instances and relationships where I wish things developed slower or were given more time. I enjoyed seeing some new alterations and relationships develop, but they did so at a bit of brisk pace. In addition, I thought something felt a little off with Mr. Wickham’s storyline – maybe it was a bit hurried as well? Or introduced too late into the tale?

CONCLUSION: Plots, Ploys, and the Art of Matchmaking is full of hijinks and hilarity – an excessively diverting story that is sure to entertain and amuse readers looking for something light, bright, and humorous to enjoy! I enjoy Sarah Courtney’s cleverness and inventiveness, and I look forward to checking out her next release, The Olive Branch!

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*** Are you a fan of Sarah Courtney? If yes, be sure to come back tomorrow. Sarah will be visiting and sharing about her newest release The Olive Branch! ***