What If Georgiana’s Head Was Turned by a Mysterious Stranded Guest at Pemberley?

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: Review Copy from Author

TYPE OF NOVEL:  Pride and Prejudice Christmas Novella, Sequel about a Secondary Character

THE PREMISE: The Darcys happily anticipate a quiet Christmastide at Pemberley with Georgiana, the Bingleys, the Matlocks, and their new bundle of joy. That is until a mysterious and handsome French nobleman seeks hospitality at Pemberley and ends up snowbound! The Darcys begin to feel a little bit suspicious about the Comte and his story, and it isn’t just because of his reciprocated and intense interest in Georgiana.

MY THOUGHTS: A new baby, Christmastide, snow, a charming and handsome stranger, AND Lord Dyfed Brougham??? Never mind if I’m invited or not, I’m heading to Pemberley this Christmas! There is no place I’d rather be! I’m so excited that Pamela Aidan is taking us into the world of these characters again – and at Christmas time!

What I loved most about this story was witnessing Pamela Aidan’s thoughtful and delightful portrayals of these beloved characters. My favorites were Mr. Darcy’s unceasing ardency towards Elizabeth and his concerned actions to protect Georgiana, Georgiana’s romantic nature battling with her resolve to act with caution and clearheadedness, and Lord Brougham’s irreverent playfulness that hides a sensitive and steadfast heart. There was so much to enjoy and admire about these characters’ interactions with each other.

Another aspect I enjoyed about this tale was witnessing all the activity at Pemberley – the cozy time with Elizabeth and Darcy cooing over their newborn, the lovely camaraderie and affection between the Bingleys and Darcys as they spend quiet evenings together, the superior care and attention provided by the Pemberley staff, and then all the excitement and changes the snow, Christmas, and the Comte caused. I enjoyed seeing all the various moods and operations of this great estate, and I loved seeing these characters enjoy festive activities such as skating and sleigh-riding.

I was thoroughly wrapped up in the intrigue of this mysterious Comte and what his true purpose was at Pemberley. And I was all eager anticipation when Lord Dyfed Brougham was brought in to take hiss measure! I wish this part of the story lasted just a bit longer. Some very exciting and important action took place off page, and I was missing being in the midst of the climactic developments. Also, I kind of wish this half of the story was prolonged more in general – but that might mostly be attributed to the fact that this is the part of the story where we see Lord Brougham take center stage. And he is definitely a character for which we can never get enough. 🥰

What a fantastic (and festive) return for the talented Pamela Aidan! A Proper Darcy Christmas is a merry tale that mingles together familial love, intrigue, romance – a perfect choice for those who are huddled indoors because of the weather this season. And readers should be prepared for even more – it sounds like Pamela Aidan has some exciting plans 2023! I cannot wait!

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