Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: Review Copy from Author

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

SERIES: Defying Propriety #2 (Each novel can stand alone in this series and be read out of order)

THE PREMISE: Ashton Fiztwilliam has long felt the pressure to marry a societal elite who possesses an advantageous connection. And because he knew what was expected of him, Ashton didn’t follow the leanings of his heart six years ago. But now, after witnessing the fulfilling happiness marrying for love can bring (thanks to the recent marriage of his cousin), Ashton finds himself wanting more than a loveless marriage for political and societal gain. What does he do when he crosses paths with the woman who intrigued him six years ago and discovers she remains unmarried…

MY THOUGHTS: I greatly enjoyed the first book of this series, As A Proper Lady Would where many of our Pride and Prejudice friends first encounter each other as children and experience some new developments and layers to their relationships. And I’m excited to spend time with Bronwen Chisholm’s original creations of Colonel Fitzwilliam’s older brother, Ashton Fitzwilliam, and American heiress Adsila. We are so use to seeing the weighty pressures and familial responsibilities Fitzwilliam Darcy carries, and this story illustrates how much more that can be magnified when you are the son of an earl, both parents are still living, and they are prominent figures in social and political circles.

What I loved most about this story was how both characters learned to think for themselves and had the courage to follow their own path instead of the dictates of others. It takes a lot of strength and determination to go against the grain and defy the wishes of others. I admire both Ashton and Adsila for discovering what they want and not settling for anything less.

In addition, I thought it was a refreshing twist to see some American characters thrown into the mix – and to hear talk of Virginia, tobacco, and American Indian tribes. It definitely brought some new flavors to the story and I enjoyed seeing the different challenges and conflicts one faces being an American in Regency England. Adsila’s feelings of chagrin and disenchantment after being treated with prejudice and disapproval were easy to perceive.

Another element I enjoyed in this tale was the many examples of supportive friendships and relationships. Adsila has a close connection with her brother, but we also witness her developing a fast friendship with Elizabeth Darcy and Jane Bennet. In addition, I loved the brotherly regard and understandings between Ashton, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Mr. Darcy. Both Adsila and Ashton benefit from the wisdom and strength true friendships can bring. I especially enjoyed the bonus relationship development between Anne de Bourgh and Ashton – this secondary storyline was very interesting to explore.

While I enjoyed the premise of this story and the focus on such different and unique characters, I wouldn’t have minded a little more dimension and depth to both Adsila’s and Ashton’s character make-ups. It also felt like the main obstacles preventing Adsila and Ashton from being together seemed to easily dissipate without much struggle. Which makes it feel like most of the angst and tension was a little bit unnecessary.

With the second book of this series, Bronwen Chisholm weaves together another heartwarming tale of friendship, love, and flouting convention and societal expectations. It looks like the journey for this band of true friends continues in the next book of this series with Colonel Fitzwilliam and his romance with a most unexpected character. This should be interesting… 😁

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