Carrie Bebris is writing a series of books as ‘sequels’ to the original Jane Austen novel, Pride and Prejudice and I have read a few of them now.
I really like them.
Ms Bebris has captured the flavour of the original books extremely well; she is true to all the characters (although I’m horribly shocked at how little Lydia has grown up!).
The books are, obviously, mysteries. In this entry, Elizabeth is expecting her first child and is a trifle nervous about the birth. Darcy’s mother died giving birth to Georgiana, so he also has his worries. They discover a letter left by Darcy’s mother, addressed to the next Mrs Darcy, written while in labour in the day of her death, where she tells of a item she cannot find, which would help her through her labour. Elizabeth and Darcy set out to find the mysterious object.
Mixed in with this are some accusations that see Darcy spend time in gaol. (He is innocent, naturally).
I must admit, our author had me tricked in this one; not that I often figure out mysteries. I decided that what the former Mrs Darcy had lost was the love of her husband. I couldn’t have been more wrong!
If you are fond of the works of Jane Austen, or of historical fiction generally, this is a lovely book and I do recommend it.
You can learn more about Carrie Bebris at her website.
