The Other Bennet Sister

This was a pleasant enough read. The dialogue harmonized well with the original, without too many jarring anachronisms. I found the descriptive passages less successful, with lots of cliches (e.g. a spring in her step, used twice within the first few chapters). I wish that the language had had more bite and originality to it.

As for the plot – there's no way I think Austen would have imagined this kind of future for Mary, in her book an insufferable prig who is the target of scorn, not of empathy and compassion. But for modern readers it's quite satisfying to get inside the mind of this bookish girl, understand how an emotionally neglectful upbringing made her who she was, and see her slowly transform herself into a woman who is capable of loving and being loved, without sacrificing the gifts of her intellect.

I could accept Mary's rehabilitation, but that of Mr Collins was too far-fetched for me! He was much too self-reflective and dignified for the arrogant little toady we love to hate in P&P. Caroline Bingley, on the other hand, became a soulless viper in exchange. Seeing Mary stand up to her was a satisfying moment.

I'm a big fan of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice and I have adored this book. The only (tiny) con I can mention is that it can get a little boring at times, but again, along the same lines of Pride and Prejudice. The first part is a retelling of the events from Pride and Prejudice, but from Mary's point of view, and then we go on to follow Mary's life after those events. There are cameos from most of the characters we know and love (and others not so much), so this book has sparkled my nostalgia. All in all, I have thoroughly enjoyed this book!