Pemberley Manor: Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice continued…

by: Kathryn L. Nelson

Published by: Soucebooks Landmark (April)

Reviewed by Kathy Perschmann

What happens after the end of Pride and Prejudice? Will Elizabeth continue to have to deal with Darcy’s reticence and lack of emotion? What on earth could have made him the way he is? The dark secrets of Darcy’s childhood and his parents’ marriage continue to overshadow the early days of their marriage, starting with their wedding night.

The arrival of Trevor Handley, a mysterious man out of Darcy’s past, and the malicious animosity of Caroline Bingley, compound matters. Trevor had disappeared quite suddenly when Darcy was in his teens. They had been great friends, ever since Trevor had been taken in by Darcy’s parents when his father died. Darcy could never understand why Trevor had left so suddenly and had never been in touch.

The true nature of Darcy’s mother and her relationship with Trevor is hinted at, and Darcy’s mistrust of that situation clouds his relationship with Elizabeth. Darcy’s anger and resentment of his father was never settled before his death, and Darcy regrets it terribly. Finally he becomes friends with a man who was close to his father, Mr. Alexander, and this helps him come to a better understanding of his father and his torments. Caroline visits with Jane and Charles, and she decides to set into play events make the Darcys miserable, using suspicion and mistrust as her weapons. Will she succeed in driving a permanent wedge between Darcy and Elizabeth? Will Darcy ever overcome his feelings about his father and mother? Will Caroline ever be forgiven?

Nelson has created an excellent backstory for Darcy, and re-creates the feel of Jane Austen’s witty dialogue and deep characters with great success. If you love Austen, you will most certainly love this story!

Author’s Web site: http://www.KLNelson.net