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The Second Mrs. Bennet: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
When Charlotte Lucas becomes the new Mrs. Bennet, taking charge of the household after her predecessor's untimely death, she guides the fates of the five Bennet sisters with a steady hand. Even Mr. Darcy can find little to criticise in the elegant family, and much to admire in the witty, clever Elizabeth.
However, rumours and scandals brew when the charming but deceitful Mr. Wickham arrives in Meryton. Jealous Caroline Bingley fans the flames against the Bennets, but level-headed Charlotte manoeuvres each challenge with grace.
As Elizabeth warily forms a complex acquaintance with the aloof Mr. Darcy, Wickham’s schemes threaten to tear them apart. But with Charlotte’s wise counsel, Elizabeth unravels Wickham’s lies and protects the vulnerable Georgiana Darcy, earning Darcy’s undying respect and admiration.
Follow the romantic adventures of the Bennet sisters as Charlotte's steady guidance steers them towards happier fates than they ever imagined possible. With resilience and compassion, love finds a way, demonstrating the enduring power of family.
However, rumours and scandals brew when the charming but deceitful Mr. Wickham arrives in Meryton. Jealous Caroline Bingley fans the flames against the Bennets, but level-headed Charlotte manoeuvres each challenge with grace.
As Elizabeth warily forms a complex acquaintance with the aloof Mr. Darcy, Wickham’s schemes threaten to tear them apart. But with Charlotte’s wise counsel, Elizabeth unravels Wickham’s lies and protects the vulnerable Georgiana Darcy, earning Darcy’s undying respect and admiration.
Follow the romantic adventures of the Bennet sisters as Charlotte's steady guidance steers them towards happier fates than they ever imagined possible. With resilience and compassion, love finds a way, demonstrating the enduring power of family.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2024
159 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Bilson
234 books76 followersI've been writing since I was 5 years old. I've always had to set it aside and try to concentrate on so-called 'real life' though. I've had a number of interesting careers - engineer, real estate sales agent, owner of an electrical goods store, silversmith - but finally the time has come for me to return to my first love. Writing.
I've always loved the works of Jane Austen, so perhaps it's fitting that my first published work should be a variation on the much beloved Pride And Prejudice.
Visit my website, www.catherinebilson.com, to read several free short fics in the Pride and Prejudice fandom, and to leave me comments on my work!
I also write not-for-profit fanfiction set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and if you'd like to read those free works please go to the Archive Of Our Own and search for the user handle ozhawk.
I've always loved the works of Jane Austen, so perhaps it's fitting that my first published work should be a variation on the much beloved Pride And Prejudice.
Visit my website, www.catherinebilson.com, to read several free short fics in the Pride and Prejudice fandom, and to leave me comments on my work!
I also write not-for-profit fanfiction set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and if you'd like to read those free works please go to the Archive Of Our Own and search for the user handle ozhawk.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
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May 6, 2024I read the free sample. We are told that Charlotte wakes up at the crack of dawn and they're preparing for breakfast but somehow everyone else is already eating breakfast.
We are told that the first Mrs. Bennet died and the usual chaos was replaced by a remarkable sense of harmony when Mr. Bennet remarried and the capable Charlotte Bennet, formerly Lucas, took over and instilled peace over everything.
But 1. the first wife has been dead for ten years now and it's a bit odd that it is still being described in terms of what used to be. The children were a decade younger back then and of course everyone would grow up.
and 2. the usual chaos seems to be still be there. Lydia and Kitty are at school but they leave their rooms a horrible mess and Lydia throws food at the breakfast table. If this represents peace and harmony and such a significant improvement in their behaviour the house must have been a poltergeist haven previously.
We are told that the first Mrs. Bennet died and the usual chaos was replaced by a remarkable sense of harmony when Mr. Bennet remarried and the capable Charlotte Bennet, formerly Lucas, took over and instilled peace over everything.
But 1. the first wife has been dead for ten years now and it's a bit odd that it is still being described in terms of what used to be. The children were a decade younger back then and of course everyone would grow up.
and 2. the usual chaos seems to be still be there. Lydia and Kitty are at school but they leave their rooms a horrible mess and Lydia throws food at the breakfast table. If this represents peace and harmony and such a significant improvement in their behaviour the house must have been a poltergeist haven previously.
April 27, 2024
so disappointing (some spoilers)
I was looking forward to this for a long time but DNF.
Charlotte started off as a Mary Sue stepmother, but as the story progressed, she was less than attentive to the propriety of her two youngest stepchildren, Lydia and Kitty. Even though they were attending school, when they returned for Jane’s wedding, they devolved to canon silliness and Charlotte seemed not to be paying attention. One scene had Lydia and Kitty telling Anne that Wickham was opening a bottle of Sherry and he was going to let the (underage girls…giggle) try it and Anne should join them…when Anne was sitting right next to Charlotte! Charlotte was so involved in her conversation on her other side she didn’t pay attention at all. I took a star off for that. Especially since that seems to be the premise of the whole book…how Charlotte made a difference in the Bennet’s life.
Prior to that, she called Charles Bingley, “Bingley,” which just took me out of the story and drove me up a wall. Too many authors do that…having a woman refer to a man as just their last name. It just wasn’t done. Since I didn’t see it happen again during the time I continued reading, I am going to assume it was an editing error that should have been caught. Though I am not 100% sure because later in the story while Elizabeth was talking to Georgiana Darcy, she called Georgiana by her given name (when I never saw Miss Darcy asking her to do so) all the while Miss Darcy called Elizabeth by Miss Elizabeth.
The story telling was disjointed. For example, one moment you are reading about two people talking in a drawing room then the next paragraph it starts off they finished dancing. I was constantly going back to reread previous paragraphs to see if I missed something. There were times when it seemed that the scene changed but you missed when it happened.
Anne DeBourg was getting ready to run away with George Wickham when Elizabeth came to the rescue with Charlotte at early am-hundred and waking up Miss Darcy to tell her Wickham tale to her cousin without even giving her a chance to decide if she wanted to do so. Once Darcy hears about it, he cannot stop thanking her all the while uncertain if he should follow his heart yada yada yada.
I stopped reading when Col. Fitzwilliam, after learning Anne just suffered heartbreak as it relates to Wickham, decided now was the time to declare his love for her when he should have been there for her emotionally first. Just how well did he know her if he didn’t realize her mother was sucking the life out of her? Where did this love come from so quickly?
Anyway, I just didn’t care any longer and cut my losses.
So disappointing.
I was looking forward to this for a long time but DNF.
Charlotte started off as a Mary Sue stepmother, but as the story progressed, she was less than attentive to the propriety of her two youngest stepchildren, Lydia and Kitty. Even though they were attending school, when they returned for Jane’s wedding, they devolved to canon silliness and Charlotte seemed not to be paying attention. One scene had Lydia and Kitty telling Anne that Wickham was opening a bottle of Sherry and he was going to let the (underage girls…giggle) try it and Anne should join them…when Anne was sitting right next to Charlotte! Charlotte was so involved in her conversation on her other side she didn’t pay attention at all. I took a star off for that. Especially since that seems to be the premise of the whole book…how Charlotte made a difference in the Bennet’s life.
Prior to that, she called Charles Bingley, “Bingley,” which just took me out of the story and drove me up a wall. Too many authors do that…having a woman refer to a man as just their last name. It just wasn’t done. Since I didn’t see it happen again during the time I continued reading, I am going to assume it was an editing error that should have been caught. Though I am not 100% sure because later in the story while Elizabeth was talking to Georgiana Darcy, she called Georgiana by her given name (when I never saw Miss Darcy asking her to do so) all the while Miss Darcy called Elizabeth by Miss Elizabeth.
The story telling was disjointed. For example, one moment you are reading about two people talking in a drawing room then the next paragraph it starts off they finished dancing. I was constantly going back to reread previous paragraphs to see if I missed something. There were times when it seemed that the scene changed but you missed when it happened.
Anne DeBourg was getting ready to run away with George Wickham when Elizabeth came to the rescue with Charlotte at early am-hundred and waking up Miss Darcy to tell her Wickham tale to her cousin without even giving her a chance to decide if she wanted to do so. Once Darcy hears about it, he cannot stop thanking her all the while uncertain if he should follow his heart yada yada yada.
I stopped reading when Col. Fitzwilliam, after learning Anne just suffered heartbreak as it relates to Wickham, decided now was the time to declare his love for her when he should have been there for her emotionally first. Just how well did he know her if he didn’t realize her mother was sucking the life out of her? Where did this love come from so quickly?
Anyway, I just didn’t care any longer and cut my losses.
So disappointing.
July 19, 2024
A variation that asks the question what if Mrs. Bennet died while the girls were still young and Mr. Bennet remarried with practical, sensible Charlotte Lucas. The Second Mrs. Bennet was my first time reading Catherine Bilson's work and I got comfortable for a comfy coze with this low-angst variation on Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice.
The Second Mrs. Bennet shows what the family could be like with a sensible mother at the reins and I was fascinated to see how it would turn out. I got a kick out of the humor of having a certain bad character attempting to be a serial eloper.
However, I had a few niggles. Here we have Charlotte the super mom not noticing when Lydia and Kitty were running wild and loose for half the book right under her nose and it was Lizzy who rushed in to the rescue. The title and the blurb give the reader the impression that Charlotte made a difference in that household so why are these two still hellions and, if they are, not supervised better? And, then there were some plot jumps and under-developed area. The story assumed a conversation or an event happened and skipped right over how things got from point A to point C. Even just a quick sentence mentioning it happened would have sufficed most of the time.
I think the high point for me was seeing an assertive Bingley who took charge. Always fun to see. Georgiana also showed a quiet strength when it counted. Darcy and Lizzy had a sweet romance that developed at a good pace.
Overall, I had a good time reading The Second Mrs. Bennet and appreciated it was low-angst and how the story offered an entertaining twist to the Pride and Prejudice story.
The Second Mrs. Bennet shows what the family could be like with a sensible mother at the reins and I was fascinated to see how it would turn out. I got a kick out of the humor of having a certain bad character attempting to be a serial eloper.
However, I had a few niggles. Here we have Charlotte the super mom not noticing when Lydia and Kitty were running wild and loose for half the book right under her nose and it was Lizzy who rushed in to the rescue. The title and the blurb give the reader the impression that Charlotte made a difference in that household so why are these two still hellions and, if they are, not supervised better? And, then there were some plot jumps and under-developed area. The story assumed a conversation or an event happened and skipped right over how things got from point A to point C. Even just a quick sentence mentioning it happened would have sufficed most of the time.
I think the high point for me was seeing an assertive Bingley who took charge. Always fun to see. Georgiana also showed a quiet strength when it counted. Darcy and Lizzy had a sweet romance that developed at a good pace.
Overall, I had a good time reading The Second Mrs. Bennet and appreciated it was low-angst and how the story offered an entertaining twist to the Pride and Prejudice story.
October 18, 2024
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mature teen, British swearing, rantings of a scoundrel who attempted seduction of minors and innocents who should know better
>>Angst Level: slight to medium as events played out.
>>Source: Borrowed from KU 10-8-24: I volunteered to leave a review. 22 Chapters + epilogue
>>Trope: [1] Mrs. Bennet died trying to birth a son [2] 2nd Mrs. Bennet: the former Charlotte Lucas
I enjoy a story where there is another Mrs. Bennet. It is amazing how each lady changes the dynamics in the Longbourn household. The house was quiet. Mary was in London with the Gardiners receiving help from the masters. Kitty and Lydia were away at school. Mr. Bennet enjoyed the quiet of his household, while Jane and Elizabeth helped their stepmother. Charlotte was organized and well-situated to run the household and Mrs. Hill was pleased with her mistress. It started as a rosy picture.
Although I enjoyed the story, something was missing. The action moved quickly so things were done and over with before I could consider it and the ramifications. It was similar to putting together a puzzle with pieces missing that didn’t produce a clear picture. Perhaps, there were too many things to cover. To control the page count content was jammed into the story making it feel jerky as the tone changed.
I was not impressed with the two younger girls. They were no different than their canon characters and I questioned that. They had to have been 7 and 5 respectively when their father remarried. That was young enough for their characters to be bent in another direction. Lydia was practically uncontrollable and did what she jolly well pleased. She was sneaky and took too many chances that nearly cost the family their reputation. I did not enjoy that part. It felt off. The adults were blasé and ignorant about what the younger girls were doing. Even Darcy was dense concerning Georgiana.
Some of the actions were simply incredulous, and unbelievable. Travel time and distance were off according to what horses could travel in that time period. It would be necessary to change out the horses or allow their team to rest every 15-20 miles thus, limiting the distance they could travel in a day. People were flitting about like it was nothing.
Elizabeth was half her usual self unless she was defending her beloved sister. Jane was strong until she was faced with her harridan of a SIL. Caroline made life miserable for Charles’ wife and a weepy Jane ran home and complained. Seriously?
>>Rating: mature teen, British swearing, rantings of a scoundrel who attempted seduction of minors and innocents who should know better
>>Angst Level: slight to medium as events played out.
>>Source: Borrowed from KU 10-8-24: I volunteered to leave a review. 22 Chapters + epilogue
>>Trope: [1] Mrs. Bennet died trying to birth a son [2] 2nd Mrs. Bennet: the former Charlotte Lucas
I enjoy a story where there is another Mrs. Bennet. It is amazing how each lady changes the dynamics in the Longbourn household. The house was quiet. Mary was in London with the Gardiners receiving help from the masters. Kitty and Lydia were away at school. Mr. Bennet enjoyed the quiet of his household, while Jane and Elizabeth helped their stepmother. Charlotte was organized and well-situated to run the household and Mrs. Hill was pleased with her mistress. It started as a rosy picture.
Although I enjoyed the story, something was missing. The action moved quickly so things were done and over with before I could consider it and the ramifications. It was similar to putting together a puzzle with pieces missing that didn’t produce a clear picture. Perhaps, there were too many things to cover. To control the page count content was jammed into the story making it feel jerky as the tone changed.
I was not impressed with the two younger girls. They were no different than their canon characters and I questioned that. They had to have been 7 and 5 respectively when their father remarried. That was young enough for their characters to be bent in another direction. Lydia was practically uncontrollable and did what she jolly well pleased. She was sneaky and took too many chances that nearly cost the family their reputation. I did not enjoy that part. It felt off. The adults were blasé and ignorant about what the younger girls were doing. Even Darcy was dense concerning Georgiana.
Some of the actions were simply incredulous, and unbelievable. Travel time and distance were off according to what horses could travel in that time period. It would be necessary to change out the horses or allow their team to rest every 15-20 miles thus, limiting the distance they could travel in a day. People were flitting about like it was nothing.
Elizabeth was half her usual self unless she was defending her beloved sister. Jane was strong until she was faced with her harridan of a SIL. Caroline made life miserable for Charles’ wife and a weepy Jane ran home and complained. Seriously?
September 5, 2024
Imaginative
Even if Charlotte Lucas plays an important role in the plot, this is mostly a beautiful romance between our dear couple. It also has interesting changes and unexpected twists and a deserved resolution for two of the most hateful characters. A great read. Well done!
Even if Charlotte Lucas plays an important role in the plot, this is mostly a beautiful romance between our dear couple. It also has interesting changes and unexpected twists and a deserved resolution for two of the most hateful characters. A great read. Well done!
May 1, 2024
2,5 Stars.
Read
June 20, 2024This was a very low-stakes exploration of what might have happened in the Bennet family if Mrs Bennet had died in childbirth (when Jane was 12), and Mr Bennet had married eighteen-year-old Charlotte Lucas.
Mr Wickham is very Mr Wickham--after trying to elope (unsuccessfully) with three separate women, you would think he would have learned his lesson!
Charlotte is the best version of themselves, as are all the other Bennets (even silly Lydia). It was nice to see the dynamic between Charlotte and Mr Bennet in a relationship built on practicality, but turned to love through an equal partnership.
If you want something low angst to read through by the fire on a winter's night, this might be a good fit!
Mr Wickham is very Mr Wickham--after trying to elope (unsuccessfully) with three separate women, you would think he would have learned his lesson!
Charlotte is the best version of themselves, as are all the other Bennets (even silly Lydia). It was nice to see the dynamic between Charlotte and Mr Bennet in a relationship built on practicality, but turned to love through an equal partnership.
If you want something low angst to read through by the fire on a winter's night, this might be a good fit!
May 9, 2024
Entertaining
When Jane Bennett is twelve and Elizabeth ten, Mrs Bennett dies in childbirth. Mr Bennett marries Charlotte Lucas who is eighteen to give his five young daughters a mother. She turns out to be a far better mother than the first Mrs Bennett ever was, with her sense, organization, discipline, and caring. When Jane is twenty-two, the Bingleys, Hursts, and Darcy arrive at Netherfield and Darcy delivers his infamous insult at the assembly, but this time he feels remorse for it much quicker, and falls for Elizabeth more easily.
The book is written well enough, but the story is rather bland with a lot of the usual ups and downs. Wickham is the major villain, and it's a bit annoying how many times he delivers the same phony promises to girls during this story before anything is done with him. He hits on Elizabeth, Georgiana, Anne Debourgh, and Lydia before he's stopped, and even then it's only sending him into the regular army, not much of a punishment.
The story starts out as a love fest for Charlotte, but as the story goes on I can't help but think that she failed with Lydia and Kitty. Those two fly around with the militia officers with impunity for quite a while before anyone pays attention. The book is written well, and is well edited. I recommend it for a light and fluffy story of not much real substance.
When Jane Bennett is twelve and Elizabeth ten, Mrs Bennett dies in childbirth. Mr Bennett marries Charlotte Lucas who is eighteen to give his five young daughters a mother. She turns out to be a far better mother than the first Mrs Bennett ever was, with her sense, organization, discipline, and caring. When Jane is twenty-two, the Bingleys, Hursts, and Darcy arrive at Netherfield and Darcy delivers his infamous insult at the assembly, but this time he feels remorse for it much quicker, and falls for Elizabeth more easily.
The book is written well enough, but the story is rather bland with a lot of the usual ups and downs. Wickham is the major villain, and it's a bit annoying how many times he delivers the same phony promises to girls during this story before anything is done with him. He hits on Elizabeth, Georgiana, Anne Debourgh, and Lydia before he's stopped, and even then it's only sending him into the regular army, not much of a punishment.
The story starts out as a love fest for Charlotte, but as the story goes on I can't help but think that she failed with Lydia and Kitty. Those two fly around with the militia officers with impunity for quite a while before anyone pays attention. The book is written well, and is well edited. I recommend it for a light and fluffy story of not much real substance.
October 28, 2024
This story has many plot holes especially pertaining to Wickham. What sort of Casanova is he that everybody falls for him? In spite of Ramsgate, Georgiana gets tempted. In spite of being in love with the Colonel, Anne agrees to elope with him and then agrees to marry the Colonel the very next morning the plan was thwarted. In spite of knowing Wickham's flirtations with Anne and Georgiana, Lydia agrees to elope with him. Wow! Apparently even a sensible mother and a proper schooling cannot fix Lydia. She not only gets herself in trouble but also others and the highlight is even after knowing it was Lydia who led the other girls down the path of ruin, nobody bothers to restrict or even question her till she jumps into the fire herself. Why?
May 10, 2024
The (many) failed elopements of George Wickham
3.5* rounded up.
I think that I could write a black comedy companion piece to this story. Imagine Wickham as Sisyphus, except that in this instance, the summit of the hill is a successful elopement. I found his attempts against several characters to be quite humorous.
I digress. This is a well-written book by a talented author and narrator. Given the canon nature of Charlotte Lucas, it isn't surprising that she has been able to direct her husband and household in a more sensible manner than the first Mrs Bennet. However, as in canon, the reader has some questions regarding her motives behind guiding her step-daughters towards certain eligible gentlemen. Sometimes it seemed like Charlotte was mercenary in her advice to the Bennet daughters. There was quite a focus on Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship, despite each being unaware of the other's feelings until the eleventh hour.
Anyway, this was a novel plot, and there was little angst to raise my anxiety levels. The audiobook was a pleasure to listen to.
3.5* rounded up.
I think that I could write a black comedy companion piece to this story. Imagine Wickham as Sisyphus, except that in this instance, the summit of the hill is a successful elopement. I found his attempts against several characters to be quite humorous.
I digress. This is a well-written book by a talented author and narrator. Given the canon nature of Charlotte Lucas, it isn't surprising that she has been able to direct her husband and household in a more sensible manner than the first Mrs Bennet. However, as in canon, the reader has some questions regarding her motives behind guiding her step-daughters towards certain eligible gentlemen. Sometimes it seemed like Charlotte was mercenary in her advice to the Bennet daughters. There was quite a focus on Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship, despite each being unaware of the other's feelings until the eleventh hour.
Anyway, this was a novel plot, and there was little angst to raise my anxiety levels. The audiobook was a pleasure to listen to.
August 19, 2024
What if Mrs. Bennet died in childbirth ten years before, and Mr. Bennet married Charlotte Lucas, who brought calm and discipline to the family? Kitty and Lydia are in school, Mary is in London with the Gardiners. Bingley and Darcy come to Netherfield, where the usual things happen: Darcy's insult at the assembly, Bingley's infatuation with Jane, Jane's illness and stay at Netherfield, and the arrival of Mr. Collins. Charlotte spends her time plotting marriages for the girls. She brings Mary from London, with the idea of pairing her with Collins. Wickham makes his moves in various ways. Caroline is her usual self. Charlotte didn't quite live up to expectations. A lot happens with very little angst and a lot of Pollyanna.
Throughout the book, my mind kept wandering away, and I had to read whole paragraphs over again. It was...bland? The dialogue was stilted. Definitely disappointing.
Throughout the book, my mind kept wandering away, and I had to read whole paragraphs over again. It was...bland? The dialogue was stilted. Definitely disappointing.
July 19, 2025
Solid, entertaining read.
Mrs Bennet dies in childbirth after Lydia, with a son dying with her. With such young daughters to care for, Mr Bennet remarries a young (18 year old) Charlotte Lucas who becomes mother to the Bennet girls. Her addition to the family cuts back on quite a bit of chaos. Lydia and Kitty are sent to school, but when they come home some havoc ensues. Kitty is a bit more sensible than canon which mitigates some problems.
When the Bingley party arrives, Bingley is much attracted to Jane. With a more genteel Bennet family he is comfortable with his feelings much more quickly. Darcy makes his insult but he and Elizabeth soon make peace and then stronger feelings develop. Georgiana arrives and has a run in with Wickham. The de Bourghs arrive (Lady Catherine and Anne) with their own brand of trouble. Caroline does her best to make trouble throughout but eventually is exposed as the nasty person she is.
Low angst with satisfying romance.
Mrs Bennet dies in childbirth after Lydia, with a son dying with her. With such young daughters to care for, Mr Bennet remarries a young (18 year old) Charlotte Lucas who becomes mother to the Bennet girls. Her addition to the family cuts back on quite a bit of chaos. Lydia and Kitty are sent to school, but when they come home some havoc ensues. Kitty is a bit more sensible than canon which mitigates some problems.
When the Bingley party arrives, Bingley is much attracted to Jane. With a more genteel Bennet family he is comfortable with his feelings much more quickly. Darcy makes his insult but he and Elizabeth soon make peace and then stronger feelings develop. Georgiana arrives and has a run in with Wickham. The de Bourghs arrive (Lady Catherine and Anne) with their own brand of trouble. Caroline does her best to make trouble throughout but eventually is exposed as the nasty person she is.
Low angst with satisfying romance.
May 3, 2024
3.5 stars
Ms Bilson offered an enjoyable look at Charlotte’s life; unfortunately, this decent enough story was hobbled by too many plot holes.
Of main note are the discussions characters AREN’T having. How did Lydia and Kitty not mention Georgiana’s erstwhile suitor to Anne dB? How did LCdB not tell Darcy where she had found Georgiana? LCdB would take every opportunity to tell Darcy how he’s failed his sister, even were she on her deathbed.
A lot of characters had the flu, which didn’t seem to forward any plot points. AdB transfers her affections with unbelievable speed. Finally, Lydia and Kitty returned home from school on some pretense; for unknown reasons, they never went back. What was the point of even having them at school?
With some work, I think this could be a stronger, more engaging tale. I hope Ms Bilson considers re-editing.
Ms Bilson offered an enjoyable look at Charlotte’s life; unfortunately, this decent enough story was hobbled by too many plot holes.
Of main note are the discussions characters AREN’T having. How did Lydia and Kitty not mention Georgiana’s erstwhile suitor to Anne dB? How did LCdB not tell Darcy where she had found Georgiana? LCdB would take every opportunity to tell Darcy how he’s failed his sister, even were she on her deathbed.
A lot of characters had the flu, which didn’t seem to forward any plot points. AdB transfers her affections with unbelievable speed. Finally, Lydia and Kitty returned home from school on some pretense; for unknown reasons, they never went back. What was the point of even having them at school?
With some work, I think this could be a stronger, more engaging tale. I hope Ms Bilson considers re-editing.
May 4, 2024
Didn't Enjoy
I didn't really care for this book at all. The story was well written but I was hoping for a story about ALL of the Bennet sisters. There wasn't enough about Mary. She was mostly shipped off to the Gardiners and then she gets married to some doctor we know nothing about. And may I say I am SICK of the Elizabeth "oh so perfect" Bennet in fan fiction. She's annoying! I prefer stories about Mary, the forgotten Bennet. She's much more interesting.
I didn't really care for this book at all. The story was well written but I was hoping for a story about ALL of the Bennet sisters. There wasn't enough about Mary. She was mostly shipped off to the Gardiners and then she gets married to some doctor we know nothing about. And may I say I am SICK of the Elizabeth "oh so perfect" Bennet in fan fiction. She's annoying! I prefer stories about Mary, the forgotten Bennet. She's much more interesting.
May 31, 2024
Disappointed
I almost gave up halfway through the book. The story was bland, the descriptions were overwrought, and I lost interest in the characters.
I almost gave up halfway through the book. The story was bland, the descriptions were overwrought, and I lost interest in the characters.
April 28, 2024
DNF at 75%. You think this book is about Charlotte Bennet to the rescue right? Interesting premise but we’re ALL over the place with the plot and POV. WAY too many subplots going on.
August 10, 2025
Yeas and nays
This variation starts with a bit of summary and comments detailing the variations in the Bennett lives in regard to the original. The second Mrs. Bennet, Mrs. Charlotte Bennet, the titular character, is basically walking around her estate in a quiet moment while everyone’s thoughts (including hers) goes back to the First Mrs. Bennet and how the chaos and frivolity she had cultivated in her household had been banished by Charlotte. It did tend to seem like they were placing Charlotte on a silver pedestal, ruminating on how fortuitous Fanny’s passing was.
Justice for Fanny!
The age gap kind of made me a bit uncomfortable, too (18 v. 38 or so). And I find it a bit hard to believe that an 18 year old managed to take five little girls who’ve just lost their mother and garner their respect -while- stepping in as a mistress of a household. But Charlotte is just magical, I guess. But this is sort of negated by how wild Kitty and Lydia still are. They get sent to school for the terms and come back the silly and naive girls they always were, and super-Charlotte who’s supposed to be so much better than Mrs. Bennet leaves them to their own devices and mischief. (This is probably for plot because the girls create and introduce many characters to issues. Still, it’s a bit of a rough spot in the work.)
On the positive side, this is one of the few works of JAFF where I can clearly see how one aspect being changed results in the new obstacles of the variation. Charlotte’s advice changes both Lizzy’s and Jane’s opinion of or approach to their beaus (respectively).
Like I’ve heard from commenters, there is one spot in the book where there seemed to be a bunch of conversations that the author had forgotten to include for context to a revelation. But while it confused me slightly it wasn’t really that bad.
The older members of Darcy’s family are a bit worse than usual in my opinion, though (mainly Lord and Lady Matlock [they were only shown briefly but very annoying]).
This variation starts with a bit of summary and comments detailing the variations in the Bennett lives in regard to the original. The second Mrs. Bennet, Mrs. Charlotte Bennet, the titular character, is basically walking around her estate in a quiet moment while everyone’s thoughts (including hers) goes back to the First Mrs. Bennet and how the chaos and frivolity she had cultivated in her household had been banished by Charlotte. It did tend to seem like they were placing Charlotte on a silver pedestal, ruminating on how fortuitous Fanny’s passing was.
Justice for Fanny!
The age gap kind of made me a bit uncomfortable, too (18 v. 38 or so). And I find it a bit hard to believe that an 18 year old managed to take five little girls who’ve just lost their mother and garner their respect -while- stepping in as a mistress of a household. But Charlotte is just magical, I guess. But this is sort of negated by how wild Kitty and Lydia still are. They get sent to school for the terms and come back the silly and naive girls they always were, and super-Charlotte who’s supposed to be so much better than Mrs. Bennet leaves them to their own devices and mischief. (This is probably for plot because the girls create and introduce many characters to issues. Still, it’s a bit of a rough spot in the work.)
On the positive side, this is one of the few works of JAFF where I can clearly see how one aspect being changed results in the new obstacles of the variation. Charlotte’s advice changes both Lizzy’s and Jane’s opinion of or approach to their beaus (respectively).
Like I’ve heard from commenters, there is one spot in the book where there seemed to be a bunch of conversations that the author had forgotten to include for context to a revelation. But while it confused me slightly it wasn’t really that bad.
The older members of Darcy’s family are a bit worse than usual in my opinion, though (mainly Lord and Lady Matlock [they were only shown briefly but very annoying]).
January 21, 2025
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. Follow the romantic adventures of the Bennet sisters as Charlotte's steady guidance steers them towards happier fates than they ever imagined possible. With resilience and compassion, love finds a way, demonstrating the enduring power of family.
When Charlotte Lucas becomes the new Mrs. Bennet, taking charge of the household after her predecessor's untimely death, she guides the fates of the five Bennet sisters with a steady hand. Even Mr. Darcy can find little to criticise in the elegant family, and much to admire in the witty, clever Elizabeth. However, rumours and scandals brew when the charming but deceitful Mr. Wickham arrives in Meryton.
A jealous Caroline Bingley fans the flames against the Bennets, but level-headed Charlotte manoeuvres each challenge with grace. As Elizabeth warily forms a complex acquaintance with the aloof Mr. Darcy, Wickham’s schemes threaten to tear them apart, but with Charlotte’s wise counsel, Elizabeth unravels Wickham’s lies and protects the vulnerable Georgiana Darcy, earning Darcy’s undying respect and admiration. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. The only real disappointment was that they didn’t specify what gender the baby Charlotte was to have and the fate surrounding that, I believe a little more to the story would’ve rounded out the ending, in my opinion, so much better and satisfying. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. Follow the romantic adventures of the Bennet sisters as Charlotte's steady guidance steers them towards happier fates than they ever imagined possible. With resilience and compassion, love finds a way, demonstrating the enduring power of family.
When Charlotte Lucas becomes the new Mrs. Bennet, taking charge of the household after her predecessor's untimely death, she guides the fates of the five Bennet sisters with a steady hand. Even Mr. Darcy can find little to criticise in the elegant family, and much to admire in the witty, clever Elizabeth. However, rumours and scandals brew when the charming but deceitful Mr. Wickham arrives in Meryton.
A jealous Caroline Bingley fans the flames against the Bennets, but level-headed Charlotte manoeuvres each challenge with grace. As Elizabeth warily forms a complex acquaintance with the aloof Mr. Darcy, Wickham’s schemes threaten to tear them apart, but with Charlotte’s wise counsel, Elizabeth unravels Wickham’s lies and protects the vulnerable Georgiana Darcy, earning Darcy’s undying respect and admiration. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. The only real disappointment was that they didn’t specify what gender the baby Charlotte was to have and the fate surrounding that, I believe a little more to the story would’ve rounded out the ending, in my opinion, so much better and satisfying. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
July 21, 2025
I enjoy reading variations where there is a major change to see how it will change the make up of the rest of the story. In this case, Mrs. Bennet had died and Charlotte is now Mrs. Bennet. It is a very different Bennet household and Charlotte does well with the older girls but really Lydia and Kitty are no different than canon and that didn't feel right. They went to school. It seems like they should have had lessons in comportment. But they sneak off to meet officers and nobody knows about it. I get why the author did that, thinking to further the story but I found it distracting that no one paid attention. Also distracting was the girls calling Charlotte Stepmother all the time. I reminded myself many times that Lizzy was 10 when her mother died and Charlotte was 18 so they had not developed the same kind of relationship as in canon but I would have preferred them to call her Mama or a pet name or some kind instead of pointing out the Step in their relationship.
I was a little saddened by the realization all the characters had that their life was better without their mother. Charlotte was better with money so dowries could be made larger. Their home was more quiet and pleasant etc... The only thing that didn't improve was Lydia and Kitty.
But I liked the characters and laughed a bit at Wickham's expense. I would have enjoyed seeing the scene between Lady C and Elizabeth. I guess it went down like canon so there was no point reliving it but I'd hoped to see a little variation of it.
I was a little saddened by the realization all the characters had that their life was better without their mother. Charlotte was better with money so dowries could be made larger. Their home was more quiet and pleasant etc... The only thing that didn't improve was Lydia and Kitty.
But I liked the characters and laughed a bit at Wickham's expense. I would have enjoyed seeing the scene between Lady C and Elizabeth. I guess it went down like canon so there was no point reliving it but I'd hoped to see a little variation of it.
December 14, 2024
A lovely Charlotte
While I enjoy P&P variations with a strong Charlotte and a different (or deceased) Fanny Bennet, the abrupt changes of emotions and preferences were jarring. For example , the awakenings and reactions of Lydia, Anne and Georgiana with respect to Wickham occurred from one paragraph to the next or even one sentence to the next — with little or no explanation. With more developed transitions the book would have earned at least 4 stars. Some events occurred as a surprise with automatic adjustments by others as if by magic. Nonetheless I liked the storyline and writing style, so 3 stars despite the superficial portrayal of Elizabeth and Darcy. Will not read this again but will try at least one more by this author.
While I enjoy P&P variations with a strong Charlotte and a different (or deceased) Fanny Bennet, the abrupt changes of emotions and preferences were jarring. For example , the awakenings and reactions of Lydia, Anne and Georgiana with respect to Wickham occurred from one paragraph to the next or even one sentence to the next — with little or no explanation. With more developed transitions the book would have earned at least 4 stars. Some events occurred as a surprise with automatic adjustments by others as if by magic. Nonetheless I liked the storyline and writing style, so 3 stars despite the superficial portrayal of Elizabeth and Darcy. Will not read this again but will try at least one more by this author.
June 27, 2024
Charlotte is the hero
Mrs. Bennet has passed away, and Mr. Bennet needs a mother for his young children. He then marries 18 year old Charlotte and with her wisdom and grace helps raise the girls. Jane learns to show more feelings, and Elizabeth learns not to judge too quickly. Even though the younger girls go to school, they still very much resemble the girls from canon. Charlotte is the hero in that she sees Wickham for who and what he is and is able with help to thwart his plans. Overall this is a sweet story and it’s wonderful to see the relationship between Charlotte and Mr Bennet and the love they share. I read this in ebook and the audiobook. I enjoyed both.
Mrs. Bennet has passed away, and Mr. Bennet needs a mother for his young children. He then marries 18 year old Charlotte and with her wisdom and grace helps raise the girls. Jane learns to show more feelings, and Elizabeth learns not to judge too quickly. Even though the younger girls go to school, they still very much resemble the girls from canon. Charlotte is the hero in that she sees Wickham for who and what he is and is able with help to thwart his plans. Overall this is a sweet story and it’s wonderful to see the relationship between Charlotte and Mr Bennet and the love they share. I read this in ebook and the audiobook. I enjoyed both.
May 24, 2024
An interesting P&P variation
I did very much enjoy this story and seeing how we got to everyone's happy endings.
However, there were a few times I felt I had to question the author's knowledge of the time period. Things either said or done that wouldn't have been appropriate for the characters in the time, especially of the societal ranking of these characters.
Aside from those instances I found myself mostly happy with the storyline. I was even okay with the idea of Charlotte Lucas being a stepmother to the Bennett sisters and enjoyed many of their interactions as such.
I did very much enjoy this story and seeing how we got to everyone's happy endings.
However, there were a few times I felt I had to question the author's knowledge of the time period. Things either said or done that wouldn't have been appropriate for the characters in the time, especially of the societal ranking of these characters.
Aside from those instances I found myself mostly happy with the storyline. I was even okay with the idea of Charlotte Lucas being a stepmother to the Bennett sisters and enjoyed many of their interactions as such.
April 28, 2024
I enjoyed this variation. I’ll admit to having concerns at the beginning that Charlotte would just be a slightly less loud version of Mrs Bennet, but those concerns were quickly put to rest. It’s a great story incorporating the original story into a slightly more danger fraught variation, loved it. My only nit was the sudden turnaround of the “family” I’d have liked to witness it a little at least.
April 27, 2024
Very Enjoyable!
I have always liked Charlotte Lucas seeing her feature as a woman who guides the Bennets into happiness and respectability is a treat. I especially enjoyed her handling of Mr Wickham.
I have always liked Charlotte Lucas seeing her feature as a woman who guides the Bennets into happiness and respectability is a treat. I especially enjoyed her handling of Mr Wickham.
April 28, 2024
I sub name this book..
the Multitudenous Schemes of Mr. Wickham. This work had too many Wickham shenanigans for my tastes, but was a well written as this author's previous works. An enjoyable enough read.
the Multitudenous Schemes of Mr. Wickham. This work had too many Wickham shenanigans for my tastes, but was a well written as this author's previous works. An enjoyable enough read.
April 29, 2024
I do like Charlotte's pairing with anyone other Mr Collins.
This book was very entertaining however there was a lot of looking out of windows and signing going on
Which started to get a bit tedious in an otherwise excellent story.
This book was very entertaining however there was a lot of looking out of windows and signing going on
Which started to get a bit tedious in an otherwise excellent story.
May 17, 2024
Nice variation
Nice variation and shows not much angst
with having a step mom. Lots of angst from Mr Wickham's participation. He acts desperate to get a rich wife...
Just a time filler for me.
Nice variation and shows not much angst
with having a step mom. Lots of angst from Mr Wickham's participation. He acts desperate to get a rich wife...
Just a time filler for me.
July 25, 2024
Jane Austen eat your heart out!
Charlotte blooms greatly without diminishing any other character. I loved seeing her so happy and Longbourn so peaceful. And our villains get what's coming to them. Yea!
Charlotte blooms greatly without diminishing any other character. I loved seeing her so happy and Longbourn so peaceful. And our villains get what's coming to them. Yea!
May 2, 2024
Fun fast read
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