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A review by danajoy
The Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlow
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
4.25
What would become of Mary Bennet?
By the end of Pride and Prejudice 3 of her 4 sisters are married. The only other unwed is younger and much more agreeable and handsome so it is fair to assume she wouldn't struggle to find a match.
Bookish, awkward and plain Mary's prospects don't seem to align.
This novel explores the future for the other Bennet sister, starting from before the events of the source material and building on it.
Would it be wrong to call this book fanfiction? The whole gang is back, with some notable new additions. I love Jane Austen's novel and it was lovely to return to the world. A lot of the original story is glossed over and while it could probably be consumed separately to the original this is clearly intended to be a companion.
The story ponders philosophy and the concept of happiness. Mary is very studious and a lot of very notable texts and poets are discussed.
It feels safe to return to a familiar family. Mary is a fine protagonist and comes into her own.
It just didn't quite have the magic of the original or the same degree of sharp wit. I missed Lizzy and Darcy.
By the end of Pride and Prejudice 3 of her 4 sisters are married. The only other unwed is younger and much more agreeable and handsome so it is fair to assume she wouldn't struggle to find a match.
Bookish, awkward and plain Mary's prospects don't seem to align.
This novel explores the future for the other Bennet sister, starting from before the events of the source material and building on it.
Would it be wrong to call this book fanfiction? The whole gang is back, with some notable new additions. I love Jane Austen's novel and it was lovely to return to the world. A lot of the original story is glossed over and while it could probably be consumed separately to the original this is clearly intended to be a companion.
The story ponders philosophy and the concept of happiness. Mary is very studious and a lot of very notable texts and poets are discussed.
It feels safe to return to a familiar family. Mary is a fine protagonist and comes into her own.
It just didn't quite have the magic of the original or the same degree of sharp wit. I missed Lizzy and Darcy.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying
Moderate: Death of parent