What If Elizabeth’s Fairy Godmother Heard Mr. Darcy’s Infamous Insult at the Meryton Assembly?
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: JAFF Writer/Reader Get Together
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation Novella, Fantasy
THE PREMISE: Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Bennet! Fairy godmothers do exist and there are two that are a part of the Bennet family. Jane’s fairy godmother, Priscilla, is as sweet and gentle as she is and is credited with bringing Mr. Bingley into her life. But Elizabeth’s fairy godmother, Mildread, is obstinate, headstrong, and impertinent, and when she overhears someone insulting Elizabeth, her temper gets the best of her and she unleashes her wrath…
MY THOUGHTS: How enchanting! I love the idea of fairy godmothers existing and helping bring together couples that are well-suited. The events of the story take some strange and magical turns, so I’d recommend being ready to suspend all disbelief and embrace a world where inexplicable things can happen.
It is hard for me to decide what I loved most about this magical novella. Mildread was a wonderful new character. What a spitfire! She is force to be reckoned with, and it looks like Elizabeth has met her match! I especially loved what was revealed at the end. Just when you think she is off her rocker and causing more harm then help, she proves otherwise. Very well done! I love that she knew Elizabeth so well, and knew the best way for her to understand and transform herself.
Speaking of, I love Elizabeth’s journey in this novel. Mildread’s influence and interference has produced some changes in our girl. I loved seeing Elizabeth try to protect and prevent others from Mildread’s retributions. Her feelings of concern and empathy were a lovely change to witness.
And lastly, another aspect of the story I loved were all the fairytale nods! They were so clever and fitting! I had fun trying to spot as many as I could – but I don’t think I got them all! I really appreciated the creativity of all these ties and how they were utilized in the story. Mildread is up-to-date on her fairy tales and fables!
My only quibble for this work is I wish we had a little more details or background about fairy godmothers in general. Did any other families in town have any? Did any other people know they exist? If they are capable of producing such powerful and life-altering spells, it feels like the world in general would have some understanding about them…
FINAL THOUGHTS:
📜 Once upon a time a fairy godmother was out of patience with her obstinate and obtuse charges and decided to take matters into her own hands!
🧚🏼 From peas to poisonous apples, this imaginative tale is full of fairy tale exploration and enchantment!
📘 This story must continue! We need to see how these fairy godmothers help Mary, Kitty, and Lydia! Talk about a diverting lark!
I’m so glad you’ve reviewed this one. I enjoyed it immensely. The way the author weaves various fairy tales into the P&P story is masterful. It’s a great read.
This was a delightful story. Who would deserve a fairy godmother more than ODG…especially a rather perverse one? I can think of nothing more fitting than this love story for the ages dropped into a fairytale setting.
One of my very favorites by Melanie!
I will add this to my list as I have enjoyed so many of this author’s stories. Great review, Meredith.
I will have to read it. Sounds like a lot of fun.
sounds like a fun read.
I loved reading this! it was a funny read….you know the adage, ‘be careful what you wish for’….lol. Thanks for the review!
Oh this sounds fun. I love me a fairy god mother.
It’s been a while since I read this and your review brought so much of the fun back again. Now I have to go reread it. But I seem to remember that it started out kind of funny and became quite profound at the end, really beautiful. ‘Just right’ review, Meredith. 😉
This review has made me want to read the book. I can’t wait.
I read this book and enjoyed it very much. Thanks for featuring here with your review!