A Far Better Prospect by MJ Stratton. ★★★★★

This pride and prejudice variation gives us an origin story for Louisa Hurst, née Bingley.

We are familiar with Louisa Hurst, portrayed as complicit with her harpy of a sister, Caroline Bingley or behaving as a vacuous female, absently playing with her bracelets.

This Louisa is so much more!

Daughter to a manipulative, coldly ambitious mother.

Louisa is delighted to be courted by wealthy tradesman, Henry Tillman.

However, when she tries to marry for love, rather than to aid her social climbing family, Mrs Bingley’s response is brutal and nearly fatal.

Reluctant wife to Alfred Hurst, landed gentleman, with an estate in dire need of funds. He gains Louisa’s dowry of £20,000 to save his estate. He takes the money but never lets her forget that she is only the daughter of a tradesman. He and his friends enjoy disparaging Louisa for her origins. Hurst is controlling and abusive. He makes it clear that Louisa’s only value, is as a brood mare.

The Hurst estate is rented out, so the Hursts are essentially homeless, “visiting” friends for months on end.

Sister to the vicious harpy, Caroline Bingley, a carbon copy of their mother.

Fortunately, her brother Charles is kind, attentive and generous.

This is an emotionally challenging story, because Louisa’s treatment is awful and her survival comes at the cost of her identity and personality.

Although, the angst is high, there are bittersweet moments of solace.

At the end of adversity, comes the reward of love and companionship.

Happy to recommend.

Amazon review

Goodreads review