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The Companion of His Future Life
One of the great "what-ifs" among Pride & Prejudice aficionados if Mr. Collins married Mary Bennet instead of Charlotte Lucas, how would that influence Mr. Darcy's dogged pursuit of the elusive Elizabeth? In this breezy and hilarious re-telling of Jane Austin's classic novel, the author explores what would have changed -- and what would have not -- had two of literature's most self-righteous characters found their way together. Elizabeth Bennet goes to Kent with her sister Jane, and the fur flies! A wonderful, mad-cap romp!
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 3, 2014
35 people are currently reading
200 people want to read
About the author
Jack Caldwell
35 books102 followersJack Caldwell, born and raised in the Bayou County of Louisiana, is an author, amateur historian, professional economic developer, playwright, and like many Cajuns, a darn good cook.
His nickname -- The Cajun Cheesehead -- came from his devotion to his two favorite NFL teams: the New Orleans Saints and the Green Bay Packers. (Every now and then, Jack has to play the DVD again to make sure the Saints really won in 2010.)
Always a history buff, Jack found and fell in love with Jane Austen in his twenties, struck by her innate understanding of the human condition. Jack uses his work to share his knowledge of history. Through his characters, he hopes the reader gains a better understanding of what went on before, developing an appreciation for our ancestors' trials and tribulations.
When not writing or traveling with Barbara, Jack attempts to play golf. A devout convert to Roman Catholicism, Jack is married with three grown sons.
Jack's blog postings -- The Cajun Cheesehead Chronicles -- appear regularly at Austen Variations.
His nickname -- The Cajun Cheesehead -- came from his devotion to his two favorite NFL teams: the New Orleans Saints and the Green Bay Packers. (Every now and then, Jack has to play the DVD again to make sure the Saints really won in 2010.)
Always a history buff, Jack found and fell in love with Jane Austen in his twenties, struck by her innate understanding of the human condition. Jack uses his work to share his knowledge of history. Through his characters, he hopes the reader gains a better understanding of what went on before, developing an appreciation for our ancestors' trials and tribulations.
When not writing or traveling with Barbara, Jack attempts to play golf. A devout convert to Roman Catholicism, Jack is married with three grown sons.
Jack's blog postings -- The Cajun Cheesehead Chronicles -- appear regularly at Austen Variations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
April 30, 2014
Have you ever felt that Mr. Collins ended up with the wrong character in Pride and Prejudice? He is attracted to Jane’s and Elizabeth’s beauty and Charlotte’s agreeable nature, but he completely overlooks plain Mary, who, with her preference of sermons, serious nature, and fondness for counseling others, would perhaps be the ideal candidate. I’ve always wondered if Mr. Collins ever thought of Mary Bennet, if he even noticed her. Did he see their compatibility and ignore it? In Jack Caldwell’s newest novel he explores what happens when Mr. Collin’s sees Mary and proposes to her instead of Elizabeth…
So how does Mary marrying Mr. Collins change the story for the other characters, you ask? Well, the Netherfield party still departs to London, but because her sister is soon to be married, Jane Bennet doesn’t venture there herself. She instead accompanies Elizabeth on a long visit to Hunsford Parsonage (that’s right, no Maria Lucas!). Where we learn that Mary and Anne de Bourgh don’t remain indifferent acquaintances with each other, but instead become fast friends.
What I loved most about this story was seeing all the positive results of Mr. Collins’s marriage to Mary! Mary’s development and improvement was wonderful to witness; she handles Mr. Collins masterfully and truly comes into her own. And now that the sisters are separated by a distance of “nearly fifty miles,” they seem to value each other more and their increased sisterly affection for each other was heartwarming to observe. In addition, I loved how Mary, while respectful and kind towards Lady Catherine, did not worship her with the same absolute veneration that her husband is prone to do and often steered him in a better direction than his “esteemed patroness.” Go Mary!
Mary’s maturity and development isn’t the only pleasing one to witness in this tale, Anne de Bourgh, while under the guidance and support of her new friend is finally becoming the woman she has always longed to be. Taking secret music lessons, driving carriages, interfering with her cousin’s relationship, trying to attract a certain suitor…I liked seeing Anne take a more active part in the plot!
While I loved the premise of this variation and enjoyed seeing the changes it wrought, I did often wish that the story deviated a little more. There were a lot of familiar scenes and similar conversations, and it seemed like Mary marrying Mr. Collins had more impact on Jane and Bingley then it did Darcy and Elizabeth. (Loved how Jane handled Mr. Bingley! Go Jane!) The course of Darcy and Elizabeth’s relationship seemed to be the same, even with the help of Darcy’s well-meaning cousins and Elizabeth’s matchmaking sister. I found myself enjoying the Jane/Bingley relationship in this story more than the Darcy/Elizabeth one, especially when Elizabeth makes a brazen and assumptive declaration to Mr. Darcy…(that just felt odd.)
Part of me wished this variation stayed with and focused on Mary, Anne, and Jane, but you can’t have a Pride and Prejudice variation without Darcy and Elizabeth!! Even though I was more partial to the secondary characters than the main ones, I found this inventive variation of Pride and Prejudice to be an entertaining and engaging read! I look forward to reading more from Mr. Caldwell in the future!
So how does Mary marrying Mr. Collins change the story for the other characters, you ask? Well, the Netherfield party still departs to London, but because her sister is soon to be married, Jane Bennet doesn’t venture there herself. She instead accompanies Elizabeth on a long visit to Hunsford Parsonage (that’s right, no Maria Lucas!). Where we learn that Mary and Anne de Bourgh don’t remain indifferent acquaintances with each other, but instead become fast friends.
What I loved most about this story was seeing all the positive results of Mr. Collins’s marriage to Mary! Mary’s development and improvement was wonderful to witness; she handles Mr. Collins masterfully and truly comes into her own. And now that the sisters are separated by a distance of “nearly fifty miles,” they seem to value each other more and their increased sisterly affection for each other was heartwarming to observe. In addition, I loved how Mary, while respectful and kind towards Lady Catherine, did not worship her with the same absolute veneration that her husband is prone to do and often steered him in a better direction than his “esteemed patroness.” Go Mary!
Mary’s maturity and development isn’t the only pleasing one to witness in this tale, Anne de Bourgh, while under the guidance and support of her new friend is finally becoming the woman she has always longed to be. Taking secret music lessons, driving carriages, interfering with her cousin’s relationship, trying to attract a certain suitor…I liked seeing Anne take a more active part in the plot!
While I loved the premise of this variation and enjoyed seeing the changes it wrought, I did often wish that the story deviated a little more. There were a lot of familiar scenes and similar conversations, and it seemed like Mary marrying Mr. Collins had more impact on Jane and Bingley then it did Darcy and Elizabeth. (Loved how Jane handled Mr. Bingley! Go Jane!) The course of Darcy and Elizabeth’s relationship seemed to be the same, even with the help of Darcy’s well-meaning cousins and Elizabeth’s matchmaking sister. I found myself enjoying the Jane/Bingley relationship in this story more than the Darcy/Elizabeth one, especially when Elizabeth makes a brazen and assumptive declaration to Mr. Darcy…(that just felt odd.)
Part of me wished this variation stayed with and focused on Mary, Anne, and Jane, but you can’t have a Pride and Prejudice variation without Darcy and Elizabeth!! Even though I was more partial to the secondary characters than the main ones, I found this inventive variation of Pride and Prejudice to be an entertaining and engaging read! I look forward to reading more from Mr. Caldwell in the future!
August 6, 2016
Dear reader,
If you are looking for a P&P variation peppered with humour and a smattering of differences,then this is the book for you!
This was a lovely story to lose yourself in as you pondered what would happen when Mary,and not Elizabeth,was chosen by Mr Collins to make him the happiest of men!
How would circumstances change if both sisters,Elizabeth and Jane visited Kent,and what would be the outcome of a budding friendship between Anne and Mary?
I must admit to loving this story and found it quite compelling. I really enjoyed seeing how quietly manipulative and sweetly cunning Mary was in dealing with Mr C,a character that I actually liked in this story!
Loved the fact that Jane was clear sighted enough to see that Bingley was not his own man,and until such time that he matured into being an independent man who could support her and their family,she could not and would not promise herself to him.
This encouraged said gentleman to stand on his own two feet,(unknowingly with Darcy's help),take the reigns of his life in his hands and put his stamp on Netherfield.
Jack Caldwell has an uncanny ability in using Austen's dialogue for different characters, quite often with humorous results.It was very funny reading much loved dialogue being uttered in different situations and by different characters!
One small bugbear I had was Elizabeth stating 'find them and I'm yours' to Darcy, when he has learned of Wickham and Lydia's unexpected flight to London.
This statement doesn't sound right to me, she has just realised she could love him,and why she would seemingly offer herself as part of the 'deal'/'reward' for finding Lydia,is beyond me. It simply sounds wrong,to my mind,and I cannot imagine her ever uttering such words.
Having said that,I do recommend this delightful and off times,humorous read! Enjoy!
If you are looking for a P&P variation peppered with humour and a smattering of differences,then this is the book for you!
This was a lovely story to lose yourself in as you pondered what would happen when Mary,and not Elizabeth,was chosen by Mr Collins to make him the happiest of men!
How would circumstances change if both sisters,Elizabeth and Jane visited Kent,and what would be the outcome of a budding friendship between Anne and Mary?
I must admit to loving this story and found it quite compelling. I really enjoyed seeing how quietly manipulative and sweetly cunning Mary was in dealing with Mr C,a character that I actually liked in this story!
Loved the fact that Jane was clear sighted enough to see that Bingley was not his own man,and until such time that he matured into being an independent man who could support her and their family,she could not and would not promise herself to him.
This encouraged said gentleman to stand on his own two feet,(unknowingly with Darcy's help),take the reigns of his life in his hands and put his stamp on Netherfield.
Jack Caldwell has an uncanny ability in using Austen's dialogue for different characters, quite often with humorous results.It was very funny reading much loved dialogue being uttered in different situations and by different characters!
One small bugbear I had was Elizabeth stating 'find them and I'm yours' to Darcy, when he has learned of Wickham and Lydia's unexpected flight to London.
This statement doesn't sound right to me, she has just realised she could love him,and why she would seemingly offer herself as part of the 'deal'/'reward' for finding Lydia,is beyond me. It simply sounds wrong,to my mind,and I cannot imagine her ever uttering such words.
Having said that,I do recommend this delightful and off times,humorous read! Enjoy!
December 19, 2017
If one loves JA's P&P, one knows the lines very well. Mr. Caldwell uses many of them with no attempt to disguise such. Does that offend me? NO. My thoughts are that Mr. Caldwell was very clever and had to have given a lot of thought as to how to use those lines and in whose mouth. But, honestly, I did skim through many of those sections as I knew the words so well. Many of his changes are changes which I, frankly, have opined about for the original. Don't we all think Mary should have married Mr. Collins, what with her reading of Fordyce's Sermons and her holier-than-thou attitude? However, in marrying Mary to Mr. Collins our author gives her the wisdom (and body) to be able to handle her husband. Him "begging" to be allowed to visit her bedroom - I think I will be ill also if not die from laughing so hard first! I enjoyed reading that Mary and Anne de Bourgh became best of friends. What a nice surprise! Many authors have married Col. Fitzwilliam off to Anne in JAFF stories, but in this version, Col. Fitzwilliam doesn't seem to have a clue that this is to be his fate. Is he in denial? The scene in which he is entering Rosings and 3 females have his destiny all tied up is priceless.
I did NOT like when Elizabeth, at Lambton, after having received the letters about Lydia's elopement with Wickham, said, "Find them and I am yours." It just doesn't sound right...sorry. Yes, we know Darcy is honorable and would only have Elizabeth in marriage but I just don't think our Lizzy would have said it quite that way. It opens up too many negative connotations. He has not proposed for a second time, She has just realized that, yes, she can love him. But she also thinks that this disgrace because of Lydia's actions would now totally justify his views of her family, even though he takes the blame in not exposing Wickham. And there is that whole thing about him not wanting her out of gratitude, which her words imply. Doesn't she know that he is not going to want her for that reason by now. She has been learning so much about his honor and how loyal he is to those he loves and how he takes care of them and protects them.
In creating a different Anne I found it very interesting that Mr. Caldwell now gives her an accomplishment which her mother was bragging about in the original story (and which she didn't have) and additional accomplishments, which would draw attention from a man looking for an "ideal woman"...learning to play the piano, learning to shot billiards, drawing, handling her dog cart and wanting to learn to ride are sure to please.
We have a new Jane who suddenly has the discernment to realize that Bingley can't stand on his own two feet and that a couple cannot live on love alone. This is not JA's Jane. We do see Bingley's character being more developed in this version and, for me, that was pleasing. (Even if the steward he hires and works with was sent his way via Darcy and Matlock.)
All in all a very interesting twist to the original story. The author kept very close to the original story line making changes more in characters' personalities and then their actions without changes in the final outcome for the most part.
I did NOT like when Elizabeth, at Lambton, after having received the letters about Lydia's elopement with Wickham, said, "Find them and I am yours." It just doesn't sound right...sorry. Yes, we know Darcy is honorable and would only have Elizabeth in marriage but I just don't think our Lizzy would have said it quite that way. It opens up too many negative connotations. He has not proposed for a second time, She has just realized that, yes, she can love him. But she also thinks that this disgrace because of Lydia's actions would now totally justify his views of her family, even though he takes the blame in not exposing Wickham. And there is that whole thing about him not wanting her out of gratitude, which her words imply. Doesn't she know that he is not going to want her for that reason by now. She has been learning so much about his honor and how loyal he is to those he loves and how he takes care of them and protects them.
In creating a different Anne I found it very interesting that Mr. Caldwell now gives her an accomplishment which her mother was bragging about in the original story (and which she didn't have) and additional accomplishments, which would draw attention from a man looking for an "ideal woman"...learning to play the piano, learning to shot billiards, drawing, handling her dog cart and wanting to learn to ride are sure to please.
We have a new Jane who suddenly has the discernment to realize that Bingley can't stand on his own two feet and that a couple cannot live on love alone. This is not JA's Jane. We do see Bingley's character being more developed in this version and, for me, that was pleasing. (Even if the steward he hires and works with was sent his way via Darcy and Matlock.)
All in all a very interesting twist to the original story. The author kept very close to the original story line making changes more in characters' personalities and then their actions without changes in the final outcome for the most part.
January 21, 2019
This book had a farce-like quality to it. By that I mean that it was funny and begs not to be taken too seriously.
The sparkling gems of dry wit was fabulous and plenty to be had, loved it!
The book explored the possible outcome of what would happen if Mr Collins, in a moment of enlightenment, had proposed to a different Bennet sister.
Keeping close to the timeline of canon but with alterations due to Mr Collins' choice of bride, it was an entertaining read with a little saucyness. We even got to meet some characters from other works of Jane Austen.
Heartily recommend this book!
The sparkling gems of dry wit was fabulous and plenty to be had, loved it!
The book explored the possible outcome of what would happen if Mr Collins, in a moment of enlightenment, had proposed to a different Bennet sister.
Keeping close to the timeline of canon but with alterations due to Mr Collins' choice of bride, it was an entertaining read with a little saucyness. We even got to meet some characters from other works of Jane Austen.
Heartily recommend this book!
March 2, 2018
“The reason as to why we are attracted to our opposites is because they are our salvation from the burden of being ourselves.” –Kamand Kojouri
I will say that this book was not as good as other books I’ve read by this author. I was a bit disappointed that much of the text was drawn straight from Austen, although it might have been tweaked a bit to accommodate a different speaker or something was added to it to fit the circumstances. I don’t want to read text verbatim from canon. That just gets annoying.
When I first started reading this I felt like I had been punched in the gut. Elizabeth was horrid. Her attitude bordered on obnoxious and I wanted to shake her and ask “what is your problem?” Her inner dialogue was cutting, biting, and filled with sarcasm; she was not nice.
Our P&P timelines were tweaked just a bit when our story-line deviated from canon as Mr. Collins saw a Bennet daughter in a whole new light and yahoo… decided on a very different companion of his future life.
Poor Bingley, bungled his lines and stage directions throughout this story. Bless his heart. He really tried.
A lot of the action happened off the page and we were simply told what happened. I loved Anne de Bourgh, our dear Colonel [love him], and Mary. Their stories intertwined and was the best part of this book. The last HEA, for them, was hilarious. Well done on that part.
I was confused by the title until I realized it encompassed everyone and their companion of their future life. It pertained to more than one person. Sneaky there Caldwell… very sneaky.
The conclusion or epilogue for our villains was a bit far-fetched, but oh well. At least they got what they deserved.
I will say that this book was not as good as other books I’ve read by this author. I was a bit disappointed that much of the text was drawn straight from Austen, although it might have been tweaked a bit to accommodate a different speaker or something was added to it to fit the circumstances. I don’t want to read text verbatim from canon. That just gets annoying.
When I first started reading this I felt like I had been punched in the gut. Elizabeth was horrid. Her attitude bordered on obnoxious and I wanted to shake her and ask “what is your problem?” Her inner dialogue was cutting, biting, and filled with sarcasm; she was not nice.
Our P&P timelines were tweaked just a bit when our story-line deviated from canon as Mr. Collins saw a Bennet daughter in a whole new light and yahoo… decided on a very different companion of his future life.
Poor Bingley, bungled his lines and stage directions throughout this story. Bless his heart. He really tried.
A lot of the action happened off the page and we were simply told what happened. I loved Anne de Bourgh, our dear Colonel [love him], and Mary. Their stories intertwined and was the best part of this book. The last HEA, for them, was hilarious. Well done on that part.
I was confused by the title until I realized it encompassed everyone and their companion of their future life. It pertained to more than one person. Sneaky there Caldwell… very sneaky.
The conclusion or epilogue for our villains was a bit far-fetched, but oh well. At least they got what they deserved.
January 9, 2024
Pleasant Read
Reviewed in Canada on December 31, 2019
Enjoyable variation. In many ways it follows canon, but with enough differences to keep one interested. The character portrayals were the main differences. I love the twists in the Mary, Anne, and Jane portrayals. Bingley learned a good lesson, Anne was a good friend to the Bennet sisters, and Mary proved wiser beyond her years. Typical Wickham and Lydia, and I rather enjoyed the author’s take on Elizabeth’s Wickham set down. Nicely done.
January 8-9, 2024 - Audiobook
The narrator reads well, but I feel like there’s not enough difference between her narrative and character voices at times to realise someone else has started speaking. Fans of P&P can easily figure it out quickly though through the dialogue. Also there's not enough differentiation among the male and female characters. I think some attention to this, along with adjusting pausing and pace where appropriate in the dialogue and between scenes would help to improve the enjoyment of this audiobook. I had to slow the playback to 0.9.
Reviewed in Canada on December 31, 2019
Enjoyable variation. In many ways it follows canon, but with enough differences to keep one interested. The character portrayals were the main differences. I love the twists in the Mary, Anne, and Jane portrayals. Bingley learned a good lesson, Anne was a good friend to the Bennet sisters, and Mary proved wiser beyond her years. Typical Wickham and Lydia, and I rather enjoyed the author’s take on Elizabeth’s Wickham set down. Nicely done.
January 8-9, 2024 - Audiobook
The narrator reads well, but I feel like there’s not enough difference between her narrative and character voices at times to realise someone else has started speaking. Fans of P&P can easily figure it out quickly though through the dialogue. Also there's not enough differentiation among the male and female characters. I think some attention to this, along with adjusting pausing and pace where appropriate in the dialogue and between scenes would help to improve the enjoyment of this audiobook. I had to slow the playback to 0.9.
August 10, 2017
The book was ok, I just don't enjoy much when Darcy only proposes when his cousins push him to. IMO, looks like he didn't love Elizabeth enough to act without interference. On the other hand, I found the friendship between Anne and Mary kinda odd, at one point I was suspecting they had a romantic relationship.
September 12, 2020
I love this author and this book did not disappoint. Terrific read.
Reread: Delightful!
Reread: Delightful!
November 4, 2015
A lovable yet pious Mary
How would P&P differ if Mary married Mr Collins versus Charlotte?
This story starts with Mr Collins changing his focus again from Elizabeth to Mary after having spied her in the garden. Jane misses the opportunity to go to London with the Gardiners, therefore missing rekindling her friendship with Miss Bingley. Elizabeth and Jane both travel to Hunsford to visit with the Collins', how does the change things. Mary befriends Anne de Bourgh, though keeps their activities in secret from her mother.
How does all this change the Hunsford events for Darcy? For Col Fitzwilliam? How do Mary and Mr Collins adjust to married life?
I truly loved Mary and Anne in this variation. They are two peas in a pod and truly grow from the addition of their friendship. The story was well written and kept me wanting to read until I was finished. I would recommend this book to all JAFFers, no mature themes noted in this story.
How would P&P differ if Mary married Mr Collins versus Charlotte?
This story starts with Mr Collins changing his focus again from Elizabeth to Mary after having spied her in the garden. Jane misses the opportunity to go to London with the Gardiners, therefore missing rekindling her friendship with Miss Bingley. Elizabeth and Jane both travel to Hunsford to visit with the Collins', how does the change things. Mary befriends Anne de Bourgh, though keeps their activities in secret from her mother.
How does all this change the Hunsford events for Darcy? For Col Fitzwilliam? How do Mary and Mr Collins adjust to married life?
I truly loved Mary and Anne in this variation. They are two peas in a pod and truly grow from the addition of their friendship. The story was well written and kept me wanting to read until I was finished. I would recommend this book to all JAFFers, no mature themes noted in this story.
February 7, 2021
Jack Caldwell gives Elizabeth and Darcy the benefit of their best friends’ company in all those situations they had to face alone in P&P -in Elizabeth’s case, this means she has her beloved sister’s counsel at hand as she sometimes wished in the original P&P. Jane is with Elizabeth at Hunsford and Pemberley and Darcy has Bingley assist him when dealing with Wickham. This formula forces Darcy to deliver some of his more offensive lines in company, and subjects him to Jane’s always fair judgment. Anne and Fitzwilliam get to partake of much of the fun -mostly at Darcy’s expense-, to charming effect. Mary plays a central role in the book as lady-love to -and handler of- Mr. Collins. And handle him she does, with her arts and allurements, but always to his benefit. Darcy is sweet and confident, and Elizabeth as forthright in her love for Darcy as I’ve ever seen her. I enjoyed the book.
The book is low angst and has no mature adult content.
The book is low angst and has no mature adult content.
August 7, 2016
I really enjoyed Jack Caldwell's 'Mr Darcy Came to Dinner', with many laugh out loud moments, so had high hopes for this book and was not disappointed. I read these books for entertainment and was thoroughly entertained by this one from beginning to end. I loved Mary as Mrs Collins and the journey Mr Caldwell has given her. The way she handles Mr Collins made me smile and at times laugh out loud as she got her own way.
The main plot twists of Pride and Prejudice remain intact and much of the dialogue is there but not always from the mouths of those you expect, but this is definitely an original retelling with Jane and Lizzy experiencing much more of the tale together, thus giving Jane much more room to grow. I certainly recommend this 'what if?'.
The main plot twists of Pride and Prejudice remain intact and much of the dialogue is there but not always from the mouths of those you expect, but this is definitely an original retelling with Jane and Lizzy experiencing much more of the tale together, thus giving Jane much more room to grow. I certainly recommend this 'what if?'.
June 4, 2018
Oh what a Jane!!
January 30, 2021
I enjoyed this one —the changes and similarities of Austen’s masterpiece—especially the twist of Mary Bennet, the 3rd Bennet daughter—marrying Mr Collins, heir to Longbourn. Loved the Darcy and Elizabeth dynamic. Good read!
May 15, 2016
Highly entertaining story. The first change to canon wherein Collins woos and marries Mary instead of Charlotte sets off a bit of a chain reaction of differing circumstances during major plot events. One of the biggest is Jane and Elizabeth both going to first Hunsford, then Lambton. This leads to some highly original and entertaining twists to canon.
There is also a fair bit of humour sprinkled in, and not really much heartwrenching angst. My favorite is the recurring thought "I think I will become ill" or some variation thereof that seems to cross the mind of most characters throughout the story.
[Some people dislike Elizabeth's response to Darcy after the news of Lydia is learned, as being highly out of character for her. However, I found in only a few pages her declaration is completely explained.]
There is also a fair bit of humour sprinkled in, and not really much heartwrenching angst. My favorite is the recurring thought "I think I will become ill" or some variation thereof that seems to cross the mind of most characters throughout the story.
[Some people dislike Elizabeth's response to Darcy after the news of Lydia is learned, as being highly out of character for her. However, I found in only a few pages her declaration is completely explained.]
July 1, 2016
I loved this book. I adore the writing style of Mr. Caldwell and this book was just fabulous.
A P & P variation with Mr. Collins marrying Mary; Jane and Lizzy going to Rosings and Mr. Bennet being involved in the search for Lydia.
These twists in the tale make for an enjoyable read.
A P & P variation with Mr. Collins marrying Mary; Jane and Lizzy going to Rosings and Mr. Bennet being involved in the search for Lydia.
These twists in the tale make for an enjoyable read.
August 25, 2016
I have always liked variations/what if stories. I have also felt that, if Mrs. Bennet had looked more at her other daughters, in particularly Mary, Mary was the Bennet sister that should have married Mr. Collins. I have been searching for one of these kind of variations for a long time with her being Mrs. Collins.
Also the cover really drew me in. I have to remember to find out who the artist is, I love the painting.
SPOILERS BELOW
Also the cover really drew me in. I have to remember to find out who the artist is, I love the painting.
SPOILERS BELOW
June 3, 2014
Much too similar to the original. The main difference is that Mary marries Collins versus Charlotte and Jane goes with Elizabeth to Hunsford. Thus Jane will learn the truth of Darcy's interference with Bingley firsthand from Colonel Fitzwilliam when he tells Elizabeth and thus Darcy must apologize to both of them. The conversations read exactly as they did in Pride & Prejudice which made me wonder If there was copyright infringement. This was the reason for my lower rating. The one change I enjoyed was getting to know Anne more and learning of her romantic feelings to one of our characters. Overall, too similar to the original to stand on its own.
March 20, 2017
I enjoyed the character development of Mary/Mr. Collins , Jane/Bingley, and Anne de Bourgh under the guidance of her new friend Mary.
The storyline with Darcy/Elizabeth were similar to cannon and did not deviate much.
The storyline with Darcy/Elizabeth were similar to cannon and did not deviate much.
September 23, 2017
I was not impressed. this was just p&p with a few minor changes, not really an original story.
October 6, 2025
What's the point of "changing" stuff when so many things end up not being altered at all?
Mr Collins in a spark of genius decided that, although Elizabeth is second to Jane in birth and beauty, perhaps more scripture-oriented Miss Mary Bennet would make him a better companion of his future life.
So what does it change? Mary becomes Charlotte Lucas: she suddenly becomes rational and sensible woman (thus decreasing three silliest girls in England club to two members), observes Darcy getting infatuated with Elizabeth and speaks Charlotte's dialogue word for word.
I found it weird that Jane didn't visit London for even a little bit. Collins's wedding was sometime in fall, December at latest. Why couldn't Jane spend winter in London before coming to Rosings for Easter?
Jane's presence in Rosings didn't change much, most dialogues were quoted word for word from the original with Jane adding one exclamation here and there. There was nothing extra in those scenes, I wanted more Elizabeth's and Jane thoughts, yet most of Rosings dialogues are devoid of any passion.
Rosings stay culminated in in Lady Catherine de Bourgh being surprised that a gentleman with income of 2000 a year kept a manservant (And Lady Catherine, taking utmost interest in the lives of other people, surely knows what sort of an estate Mr Collins was to inherit).
In the original quote Catherine is surprised a London trader (a word that had all kinds of bad annotations to members of peerage) of unknown income had a manservant. NOT a gentleman of 2k a year.
Lady Catherine is virtually unchanged. There's even “Should I have had more children, they would certainly have been boys." nod to the famous line about Catherine and Anne being proficient in piano. The piano line is also quoted in this work.
Coming back to Jane: although her Rosings stay didn't change anything about Rosingss, it brought her and Bingley together faster. That would be good if it was more... simply more. Bingley's storyline was idiotic. Jane asked him to become his own master and not count on the help of friends. That's a flaw Austen designed in Bingley's character (and he pays for it in the book) yet it didn't make sense for me that Bingley was striving for independence everywhere, not even asking for business advice. I'll give a concession to that, as it's very Austen-like because of the extremes, Pride&Prejudice is full of extremes which results in characters' unfortunate situations - Jane and Bingley get separated because of the extremes in their character. Where my concession ends is that the author didn't intend for it to become Austen-like, and I know that because there's no downfall, Bingley doesn't ruin his business by not asking for advice, he end up doing absolutely fine.
The second way Bingley was striving for more independence was telling everyone, in Pemberley, they're to have picnic. Was he the one organizing it? Was he buying food from nearby village's cooks? Did he tell Caroline to order food from nearby village's cooks? The assumption is that the food came from Pemberley's kitchens, and therefore, it was actually Mr Darcy's prerogative, both as a Master of Pemberley and as a Host to the Bingleys, to invite everyone to the picnic. The author was trying to show ways in which Bingley was more independent of Darcy, yet unknowingly created a situation that should've been offensive to Darcy.
The third way in which the author showed Bingley was "a changed man" was by including him in Wickham/Lydia affair. TBH it didn't look like it changed anything despite that one dialogue he had with Mrs Younge, I expected him to at least pay some of Wickham debts, but that didn't happen. The entire affair was still achieved because of Darcy.
Georgiana Ramsgate affair became an open secret - and I hated it. I assumed Darcy said it in a moment of passion (Darcy IS NOT cold-headed when writing the letter), and what allowed him to say that was the highest regard to Elizabeth's character. Here he tells of the affair to Jane, to Mr Bennet and Mr Gardiner (ijbol), and Anne knows of it, too.
One of the worst moments for me was when Jane started speaking Mary's monologue word for word (the one on the loss of virtue in a female). I absolutely hated that as Jane Austen wrote that monologue to show Mary's senselessness and pride (in addition to it being a commentary about a place of women in Regency society), so having Jane repeat that was wrong. Austen has written Jane with flaws - her inability to see deceitfulness of people as well as make a commentary how the ideal women are supposed to be perfectly composed which might be detrimental to their relationships. But Jane's flaws aren't Mary's flaws, and Mary's dialogue is NOT Jane's dialogue.
Mary replaced Charlotte, Jane at times replaced Mary. Who replaced Jane? Kitty. That one made sense, at least, although I didn't like her letters sounded too much like Jane's letters. Who replaced Charlotte? No one's. She isn't featured until the epilogue where she gets into a wanton situation and marries a Northanger Abbey character.
With so much of the text and situations remaining quote-for-quote the same and with little addition to Elizabeth's (and Jane's) private thoughts, I was surprised to find out that in the end Lizzie is having wet dreams, speaking of lust to Wickham, boldly telling Darcy she's his if he finds Lydia, and kissing him senseless upon engagement. That's just no reserve and little decorum.
Colonel Fitzwilliam's and Anne's love story was not it. It felt like an afterthought and not a fully fledged storyline despite the author making it known in the very beginning that they'll be endgame.
The author also followed a common fanfiction canon by making Fitzwilliam family Matlocks, which isn't true to Austen's text, but it is true to the 1995 adaptation. Speaking of which, I know Austen's text isn't copyrighted anymore, but 1995 text is, and I'm pretty sure the author stole a lot of sentences from it, or has taken them and "copied the homework".
This is the worst kind of fanfiction . It changes little, what it changes seems illogical, it quotes the text too closely with little witty addons, and there's too many outrageous improprieties.
The best of fanfiction I found on fanfiction net and ao3. I've read works that were superb and a great addition to the original, I've read works that were hilarious, and I've read works that have changed a ton of stuff (including the essence of the characters) yet brought something new and interesting. Unfortunately, the published stuff I've read so far is the worst type of fanfiction with this work being the epitome of it.
Mr Collins in a spark of genius decided that, although Elizabeth is second to Jane in birth and beauty, perhaps more scripture-oriented Miss Mary Bennet would make him a better companion of his future life.
So what does it change? Mary becomes Charlotte Lucas: she suddenly becomes rational and sensible woman (thus decreasing three silliest girls in England club to two members), observes Darcy getting infatuated with Elizabeth and speaks Charlotte's dialogue word for word.
I found it weird that Jane didn't visit London for even a little bit. Collins's wedding was sometime in fall, December at latest. Why couldn't Jane spend winter in London before coming to Rosings for Easter?
Jane's presence in Rosings didn't change much, most dialogues were quoted word for word from the original with Jane adding one exclamation here and there. There was nothing extra in those scenes, I wanted more Elizabeth's and Jane thoughts, yet most of Rosings dialogues are devoid of any passion.
Rosings stay culminated in in Lady Catherine de Bourgh being surprised that a gentleman with income of 2000 a year kept a manservant (And Lady Catherine, taking utmost interest in the lives of other people, surely knows what sort of an estate Mr Collins was to inherit).
In the original quote Catherine is surprised a London trader (a word that had all kinds of bad annotations to members of peerage) of unknown income had a manservant. NOT a gentleman of 2k a year.
Lady Catherine is virtually unchanged. There's even “Should I have had more children, they would certainly have been boys." nod to the famous line about Catherine and Anne being proficient in piano. The piano line is also quoted in this work.
Coming back to Jane: although her Rosings stay didn't change anything about Rosingss, it brought her and Bingley together faster. That would be good if it was more... simply more. Bingley's storyline was idiotic. Jane asked him to become his own master and not count on the help of friends. That's a flaw Austen designed in Bingley's character (and he pays for it in the book) yet it didn't make sense for me that Bingley was striving for independence everywhere, not even asking for business advice. I'll give a concession to that, as it's very Austen-like because of the extremes, Pride&Prejudice is full of extremes which results in characters' unfortunate situations - Jane and Bingley get separated because of the extremes in their character. Where my concession ends is that the author didn't intend for it to become Austen-like, and I know that because there's no downfall, Bingley doesn't ruin his business by not asking for advice, he end up doing absolutely fine.
The second way Bingley was striving for more independence was telling everyone, in Pemberley, they're to have picnic. Was he the one organizing it? Was he buying food from nearby village's cooks? Did he tell Caroline to order food from nearby village's cooks? The assumption is that the food came from Pemberley's kitchens, and therefore, it was actually Mr Darcy's prerogative, both as a Master of Pemberley and as a Host to the Bingleys, to invite everyone to the picnic. The author was trying to show ways in which Bingley was more independent of Darcy, yet unknowingly created a situation that should've been offensive to Darcy.
The third way in which the author showed Bingley was "a changed man" was by including him in Wickham/Lydia affair. TBH it didn't look like it changed anything despite that one dialogue he had with Mrs Younge, I expected him to at least pay some of Wickham debts, but that didn't happen. The entire affair was still achieved because of Darcy.
Georgiana Ramsgate affair became an open secret - and I hated it. I assumed Darcy said it in a moment of passion (Darcy IS NOT cold-headed when writing the letter), and what allowed him to say that was the highest regard to Elizabeth's character. Here he tells of the affair to Jane, to Mr Bennet and Mr Gardiner (ijbol), and Anne knows of it, too.
One of the worst moments for me was when Jane started speaking Mary's monologue word for word (the one on the loss of virtue in a female). I absolutely hated that as Jane Austen wrote that monologue to show Mary's senselessness and pride (in addition to it being a commentary about a place of women in Regency society), so having Jane repeat that was wrong. Austen has written Jane with flaws - her inability to see deceitfulness of people as well as make a commentary how the ideal women are supposed to be perfectly composed which might be detrimental to their relationships. But Jane's flaws aren't Mary's flaws, and Mary's dialogue is NOT Jane's dialogue.
Mary replaced Charlotte, Jane at times replaced Mary. Who replaced Jane? Kitty. That one made sense, at least, although I didn't like her letters sounded too much like Jane's letters. Who replaced Charlotte? No one's. She isn't featured until the epilogue where she gets into a wanton situation and marries a Northanger Abbey character.
With so much of the text and situations remaining quote-for-quote the same and with little addition to Elizabeth's (and Jane's) private thoughts, I was surprised to find out that in the end Lizzie is having wet dreams, speaking of lust to Wickham, boldly telling Darcy she's his if he finds Lydia, and kissing him senseless upon engagement. That's just no reserve and little decorum.
Colonel Fitzwilliam's and Anne's love story was not it. It felt like an afterthought and not a fully fledged storyline despite the author making it known in the very beginning that they'll be endgame.
The author also followed a common fanfiction canon by making Fitzwilliam family Matlocks, which isn't true to Austen's text, but it is true to the 1995 adaptation. Speaking of which, I know Austen's text isn't copyrighted anymore, but 1995 text is, and I'm pretty sure the author stole a lot of sentences from it, or has taken them and "copied the homework".
This is the worst kind of fanfiction . It changes little, what it changes seems illogical, it quotes the text too closely with little witty addons, and there's too many outrageous improprieties.
The best of fanfiction I found on fanfiction net and ao3. I've read works that were superb and a great addition to the original, I've read works that were hilarious, and I've read works that have changed a ton of stuff (including the essence of the characters) yet brought something new and interesting. Unfortunately, the published stuff I've read so far is the worst type of fanfiction with this work being the epitome of it.
June 5, 2022
This was a reread. I own this book.
There was too much of the original in this book.
There was a great deal of repetition of the supposedly humorous “I believe I shall be I’ll now” by different characters. They didn’t go through London when the were going to Longbourn from Kent.
Multiple mistakes with plurals.
There was too much of the original in this book.
There was a great deal of repetition of the supposedly humorous “I believe I shall be I’ll now” by different characters. They didn’t go through London when the were going to Longbourn from Kent.
Multiple mistakes with plurals.
Read
November 4, 2015A lovable yet pious Miss Mary
How would P&P differ if Mary married Mr Collins versus Charlotte?
This story starts with Mr Collins changing his focus again from Elizabeth to Mary after having spied her in the garden. Jane misses the opportunity to go to London with the Gardiners, therefore missing rekindling her friendship with Miss Bingley. Elizabeth and Jane both travel to Hunsford to visit with the Collins', how does the change things. Mary befriends Anne de Bourgh, though keeps their activities in secret from her mother.
How does all this change the Hunsford events for Darcy? For Col Fitzwilliam? How do Mary and Mr Collins adjust to married life?
I truly loved Mary and Anne in this variation. They are two peas in a pod and truly grow from the addition of their friendship. The story was well written and kept me wanting to read until I was finished. I would recommend this book to all JAFFers, no mature themes noted in this story.
How would P&P differ if Mary married Mr Collins versus Charlotte?
This story starts with Mr Collins changing his focus again from Elizabeth to Mary after having spied her in the garden. Jane misses the opportunity to go to London with the Gardiners, therefore missing rekindling her friendship with Miss Bingley. Elizabeth and Jane both travel to Hunsford to visit with the Collins', how does the change things. Mary befriends Anne de Bourgh, though keeps their activities in secret from her mother.
How does all this change the Hunsford events for Darcy? For Col Fitzwilliam? How do Mary and Mr Collins adjust to married life?
I truly loved Mary and Anne in this variation. They are two peas in a pod and truly grow from the addition of their friendship. The story was well written and kept me wanting to read until I was finished. I would recommend this book to all JAFFers, no mature themes noted in this story.
June 20, 2014
This Pride and Prejudice what if, written by a man for a change, is far less mushy than other variation I read lately and for this far more enjoyable. This doesn't mean it isn't romantic, but it is in a different way.
The story is very respectful of the novel and modified scenes are perfectly mixed with the original ones. I particularly appreciated the reference to Northanger Abbey (which is evident in the last chapter) and the slight allusion to Emma (so slight that only true Jane Austen fans will notice).
I really liked the way Jane Bennet acquires a more prominet role in the story. Mary and Anne De Bourgh come out very well, actually better than in the original novel, and have key roles in the plot.
On the whole it's a novel I'll recommend to all Jane Austen fans in search of some more time with favourite characters.
The story is very respectful of the novel and modified scenes are perfectly mixed with the original ones. I particularly appreciated the reference to Northanger Abbey (which is evident in the last chapter) and the slight allusion to Emma (so slight that only true Jane Austen fans will notice).
I really liked the way Jane Bennet acquires a more prominet role in the story. Mary and Anne De Bourgh come out very well, actually better than in the original novel, and have key roles in the plot.
On the whole it's a novel I'll recommend to all Jane Austen fans in search of some more time with favourite characters.
December 20, 2024
4+ But not enough to make it 5*.
What I liked: The plot was good, if a little convoluted in places. The humor was great, making the book a bit farcical but not ridiculously stupid. I very much appreciated the humor. I loved the character growth of our main characters, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, Jane and Mr. Bingley, but especially of Mary & Mr. Collins. Mary was an amazing manipulator! I thought that some of the repetition of things such as variations of thoughts of "I think I will be ill now" was rather clever. The characters of Anne de Bourgh and Colonel Fitzwilliam were great also. It was hilarious that Mr. Collins, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Captain Tilney had their affections "fixed" by lascivious views of their ladies.
What I didn't like: Early on, Elizabeth was very unlikable. It's good she improved as the book went on. I felt that the author used way too much of the original text from Pride and Prejudice, although it wasn't as awkwardly shoehorned in as I've seen elsewhere. It seemed that there was too much telling and not enough showing, but on the other hand, that sort of fit the style of the book.
Overall, it was an enjoyable book and I do recommend it.
What I liked: The plot was good, if a little convoluted in places. The humor was great, making the book a bit farcical but not ridiculously stupid. I very much appreciated the humor. I loved the character growth of our main characters, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, Jane and Mr. Bingley, but especially of Mary & Mr. Collins. Mary was an amazing manipulator! I thought that some of the repetition of things such as variations of thoughts of "I think I will be ill now" was rather clever. The characters of Anne de Bourgh and Colonel Fitzwilliam were great also. It was hilarious that Mr. Collins, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Captain Tilney had their affections "fixed" by lascivious views of their ladies.
What I didn't like: Early on, Elizabeth was very unlikable. It's good she improved as the book went on. I felt that the author used way too much of the original text from Pride and Prejudice, although it wasn't as awkwardly shoehorned in as I've seen elsewhere. It seemed that there was too much telling and not enough showing, but on the other hand, that sort of fit the style of the book.
Overall, it was an enjoyable book and I do recommend it.
July 16, 2025
Mary weds Mr Collins
3 1/2 stars rounded up
In this variation, Mr. Collins ends up marrying Mary. Personally, I thought that would’ve been the perfect choice in the original, but you can never mess with Jane Austen’s perfection but we do all the time because we love the variations.
With this twist many things shift, including both Jane and Elizabeth visit Huntsford. Darcy is still stupid but then apologizes to both ladies. Much of this story follows canon with slight variations here and there. I loved how Mary blossoms being married and her friendship with Anne.
Overall, I enjoyed the story. I did get the audiobook to go with and this was the first time I had heard this narrator. I struggled with some of her narration, as it was not distinct enough between some characters. Her narration wasn’t bad but is not my top choice in JAFF.
Overall, it was a nice story that one could sit back and enjoy.
3 1/2 stars rounded up
In this variation, Mr. Collins ends up marrying Mary. Personally, I thought that would’ve been the perfect choice in the original, but you can never mess with Jane Austen’s perfection but we do all the time because we love the variations.
With this twist many things shift, including both Jane and Elizabeth visit Huntsford. Darcy is still stupid but then apologizes to both ladies. Much of this story follows canon with slight variations here and there. I loved how Mary blossoms being married and her friendship with Anne.
Overall, I enjoyed the story. I did get the audiobook to go with and this was the first time I had heard this narrator. I struggled with some of her narration, as it was not distinct enough between some characters. Her narration wasn’t bad but is not my top choice in JAFF.
Overall, it was a nice story that one could sit back and enjoy.
September 3, 2018
Small but fun changes to P&P canon
Wonderful story. It’s a variation with actually funny verbiage in the telling.
Favorite quote in the book occurs at the Lambton inn when Lizzie and Jane have just found Lydia has run away with Wickham. Everybody is in a tizzy and Darcy tell Lizzie he will go to London and try to help with the problem. In a burst of intense emotion, Lizzie turns to Darcy and says to him...
“Find them and I am yours.”
I’ve never read Lizzie say anything remotely like that in any other variation. Most excellent.
I recommend the book highly.
Wonderful story. It’s a variation with actually funny verbiage in the telling.
Favorite quote in the book occurs at the Lambton inn when Lizzie and Jane have just found Lydia has run away with Wickham. Everybody is in a tizzy and Darcy tell Lizzie he will go to London and try to help with the problem. In a burst of intense emotion, Lizzie turns to Darcy and says to him...
“Find them and I am yours.”
I’ve never read Lizzie say anything remotely like that in any other variation. Most excellent.
I recommend the book highly.
November 13, 2018
Not enough original material
When the text of the story is about 80 percent Jane Austen verbatim, it seems Mr, Caldwell should not get writing credit. Although what he supplied was mildly humorous and slightly different in parts, I felt kind of cheated. I much prefer JAFF that is original in its text, even though characters are borrowed from P & P. I hope this author will attempt an original humorous tale. He seems to have potential, and I do love the P &P variations where the absurdity of the characters is showcased.
When the text of the story is about 80 percent Jane Austen verbatim, it seems Mr, Caldwell should not get writing credit. Although what he supplied was mildly humorous and slightly different in parts, I felt kind of cheated. I much prefer JAFF that is original in its text, even though characters are borrowed from P & P. I hope this author will attempt an original humorous tale. He seems to have potential, and I do love the P &P variations where the absurdity of the characters is showcased.
December 8, 2020
Disappointing..
it's more of a retelling of the original. I'd estimate at least 80% of it is straight from the original.
There are a few differences, which, made it slightly interesting. However, if I wanted to reread the original, I would do so.
it's more of a retelling of the original. I'd estimate at least 80% of it is straight from the original.
There are a few differences, which, made it slightly interesting. However, if I wanted to reread the original, I would do so.
November 26, 2019
Alright
I actually wished this story diverged more from the original P&P. Too much of it came straight from the story, wording and all. Decent, though.
I actually wished this story diverged more from the original P&P. Too much of it came straight from the story, wording and all. Decent, though.
August 7, 2020
I find it incredible that the way to get a man to look twice at you is to be seen in a compromised state. Since this occurs twice in the book I probably won't be reading any more Jack Caldwell.
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