Some Little Alteration: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Jennifer Altman. ★★★★★
This variation begins with Elizabeth Bennet travelling to Hunsford to visit her recently married friend Charlotte. She is accompanying Charlotte's father, Sir William and and sister, Maria.
During a stop at Bromley they visit a street market. Elizabeth is drawn to buy a gold locket. The seller, Madame Hercaud has a definite air of mystery and maybe magic.
Elizabeth is most unhappy to meet the rude and haughty Mr Darcy again. Last seen in her village the previous November.
Unhappiness becomes shock when Darcy makes an impassioned and insulting proposal.
She delivers a vociferous refusal and rebuke.
The following morning, Darcy confronts her, demanding that she reads his letter of defence.
Elizabeth retreats beneath a tree, but before she gets to read the letter, she is struck by a falling branch.
Elizabeth wakes to find the world is different from her memories.
Darcy was first introduced to Elizabeth in Kent and has been a pleasing acquaintance.
Maria did not accompany her on the trip, but the person who did, indicates a material change in their lives.
This is a really enjoyable variation. The diverging paths of reality are intriguing, although Lady Catherine remains a manipulative harpy in both realities.
The growing relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy is well done, although the obstacles they face had me on the edge of my seat.
The locket remains significant throughout, but is it fate, magic or manipulation?
Satisfying conclusion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Comments
Post a Comment