What If Anne de Bourgh Had Big Plans for Her 21st Birthday?
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation Novella
THE PREMISE: Anne de Bourgh is celebrating her 21st birthday eleven days after Mr. Darcy’s ill-fated proposal to Elizabeth Bennet. Of course Lady Catherine expects him to attend, and what’s more, she high-handedly arranges it so Elizabeth can extend her stay at Hunsford and be a guest as well. How will these two share such a close proximity after the awkwardness of Elizabeth’s vehement refusal?
MY THOUGHTS: This story has an inventive and diverting premise that centers a lot upon Anne de Bourgh. She has some unique interests, has developed some unorthodox friendships, and has more strength of character than Lady Catherine realizes. And with her big day coming soon, Anne has made some grand and life-changing plans and employs some sneaky schemes to see them through.
I love seeing Anne in the spotlight – especially when we can witness her become something more or find her way out from her mother’s domineering control. This story introduced some new interesting and original characters: Dubois – Anne’s loyal and talented French lady’s maid, Gilchrist, Rosings’ handsome and sometimes insolent Scottish gardener, and Mr. Brinton, the well-traveled owner and passionate artist that lives in the nearby estate – Rara Avis. I enjoyed the new dynamics and relationships these characters brought to this story and the inhabitants of Rosings.
And as for Darcy and Elizabeth, these extra eleven days together gave them a second chance. After reading Mr. Darcy’s letter, Elizabeth began her journey of understanding Mr. Darcy better. And Mr. Darcy made sure not to waste this “golden” opportunity. He bares his soul and hopes to improve Elizabeth’s opinion of him with sincere apologies and frank conversations. I always love seeing Mr. Darcy openly in love – especially in a situation like this when he puts all his cards on the table. It is endearing to see him speak from his heart with unabashed honesty (unlike the Hunsford proposal where he mostly speaks from his head) and I love seeing him continuously express such affection and ardency towards Elizabeth.
With two featured story arcs taking place simultaneously it means there is a lot packed into this novella. And I found myself needing and wanting more time and development. J. Marie Croft created such an interesting group of characters – ones that were unconventional and intriguing. I wish we had more time with them to learn about their history and the formation of their relationships together. And while I love that Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth came to understand each other better, it did feel to be an abrupt change given that they only had a few more private conversations that were often interrupted by Lady Catherine or Anne. In addition, some aspects – especially when the mystery was introduced – started to feel a little disjointed. Overall, I think all these plot ideas are interesting and worthy, but perhaps more time was needed to flesh them out and unite them more. Especially the story’s big conclusion, which was summarized in an epilogue instead of the action taking place on page.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
⚜️ No gilding required – this Anne de Bourgh is spirited, strong-willed, and fascinating.
🏆 Seizing the chance to win Elizabeth’s heart, Mr. Darcy goes for the gold!
🌟 This gorgeous cover definitely deserves a gold star!
I have this on my list as I do like stories where Elizabeth has read Darcy’s letter and is therefore more inclined to enjoy his company! Thanks to Lady Catherine they do have chance to get better acquainted!
This sounds like a great read!
Beautiful cover! Sounds like a lovely story!