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The Companion
Elizabeth intended her stay with Mrs. Collins in Kent to be a pleasant and uneventful time spent with her dear friend, engaged in nothing of more import than laughing about Charlotte's ineffectual husband and walking the woods of his patroness's estate. But a sudden tragedy leaves Elizabeth directly in Lady Catherine de Bourgh's sights, and though Elizabeth is reluctant, she accedes to the lady's demands. It is not long, however, before the peace of the estate is shattered, for a woman long-oppressed has begun to spread her wings. What comes after is a whirlwind of events, in which Elizabeth discovers that her carefully held opinions are not infallible. Furthermore, a certain gentleman of her acquaintance might be the key to Elizabeth's happiness.
- GenresHistoricalRomanceRegency
374 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 19, 2017
111 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Jann Rowland
88 books192 followersJann Rowland is a Canadian, born and bred. Other than a two-year span in which he lived in Japan, he has been a resident of the Great White North his entire life, though he professes to still hate the winters.
Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OneGoodSonnetPub...
Twitter: @OneGoodSonnet
Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bol2p9
Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OneGoodSonnetPub...
Twitter: @OneGoodSonnet
Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bol2p9
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 23, 2017
Overall this is an enjoyable low angst P&P what if that takes a new perspective. Here we are asked what if Mrs. Jenkison died and Mr Darcy & Col Fitzwilliam didn't go to Kent. When Lizzy is 'ordered' by Lady Catherine to be Anne's companion Lizzy gets her back up but agrees to voluntarily spent time with her as a 'friend' because she is concerned that Charlotte will suffer if she completely refuses. Slowly Lizzy and Anne get to like one another, Anne develops a bit of personality and self esteem. When Darcy refuses to come for Easter Lady Catherine is furious giving Anne and Lizzy more time to teach Anne to dance, the pianoforte and other things. And eventually Anne refuses to kowtow to Lady Catherine which resolves with Anne sending an express to her cousin begging for rescue.
Lizzy and Anne end up living at Darcy House in London, with Georgiana. This gives Lizzy and Darcy losts of time to get to know each other better and resolve their petty differences. Wickham's depravity is revealed and Darcy ends up getting him out of Meryton with Col. Fitzwilliam's assistance. Lizzy is given an opportunity to mix with people from Darcy's circle, upgrade her wardrobe and meet his aunt and uncle; the Earl and Countess. Darcy has to struggle with his feelings for Lizzy and whether he can overcome his disdain for her family and the expectations of his family. With them living in the same house he gets the opportunity to court her under the radar and soon they are mostly in love. Anne is quickly shown to be her mother's daughter when she plots to unite Lizzy and Darcy, reunite Jane and Bingley and put Miss Bingley in her place.
Unfortunately I wasn't utterly delighted by the book. I actually wanted more Anne and Lizzy and less Lizzy and Darcy. When the story finally moves to Hertfordshire the author seems to try to shoehorn in more plots that can possibly fit into the pages remaining.
Lizzy and Anne end up living at Darcy House in London, with Georgiana. This gives Lizzy and Darcy losts of time to get to know each other better and resolve their petty differences. Wickham's depravity is revealed and Darcy ends up getting him out of Meryton with Col. Fitzwilliam's assistance. Lizzy is given an opportunity to mix with people from Darcy's circle, upgrade her wardrobe and meet his aunt and uncle; the Earl and Countess. Darcy has to struggle with his feelings for Lizzy and whether he can overcome his disdain for her family and the expectations of his family. With them living in the same house he gets the opportunity to court her under the radar and soon they are mostly in love. Anne is quickly shown to be her mother's daughter when she plots to unite Lizzy and Darcy, reunite Jane and Bingley and put Miss Bingley in her place.
Unfortunately I wasn't utterly delighted by the book. I actually wanted more Anne and Lizzy and less Lizzy and Darcy. When the story finally moves to Hertfordshire the author seems to try to shoehorn in more plots that can possibly fit into the pages remaining.
January 24, 2018
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
When a book has a whole lot of great stuff going for it, I don't usually begin a review by pointing out the negatives. However, I'm thoroughly frustrated by this author. He comes up with wonderful story ideas, and his writing is so, so good. Every one of his books could be 5 stars. But I have the same criticism of his work that I usually do.
Mr. Rowland spends way too much time explaining the characters' thoughts in tedious and repetitive detail. I will acknowledge that it's less here than in some of his previous books, but it's still the major flaw in most of his works. This story would be much improved if about one-quarter of it was eliminated by getting rid of all that chaff weighing it down. I get annoyed at Elizabeth, annoyed at Darcy and annoyed at Anne de Bourgh because I must wade through paragraphs and sometimes pages of the same thoughts they were thinking two chapters ago.
Now for some of the positives.
Lizzy is over-the-top perfect, but I like her anyway. It’s very likely you’ll start thinking of her as Saint Elizabeth by the story's end. I know I did. She is the glue that holds the story together and an incredibly positive influence on all the troubled souls she encounters.
Despite that, it's really Anne de Bourgh who steals the book. We get a completely fresh and believable approach to her character. This 25-year-old woman has been treated like a 10-year-old her entire life. This leaves her with no idea what she's been missing in the world outside Lady Catherine's domain. And she has never had any desire to go head-to-head with Lady Catherine's forceful personality anyway, even when she has disagreed. Fortunately, she has figured out how to gently nudge her mother in a particular direction at times, and that's how Elizabeth comes into Rosings as her new companion/friend. This friendship has a profound effect on the oversheltered young lady, and the book does a marvelous job of showing Anne gradually coming out of her cocoon.
Poor Elizabeth can see where Anne's increasing discontent with Lady C. is heading and tries to suggest small steps toward asserting herself. Unsurprisingly, Anne is a chip off the old block, so when she finally breaks out of her shell, all hell breaks loose at Rosings.
That’s where Darcy enters the fray. The story moves to London, where Anne is still very reliant on Elizabeth to boost her self-confidence. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner and Jane Bennet finally enter the book. Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Georgiana start getting some significant page time. Elizabeth learns more about Darcy and about Mr. Wickham, while Anne and others conspire to make Darcy and Elizabeth realize they’re perfect for each other. I do enjoy the bond that develops among Anne, Jane, Georgiana, and, of course, Elizabeth.
I must point out another negative, though. There’s quite a bit going on here, especially in the last part of the story, as we have the Bingley-and-Jane plotline, and the Darcy-and-Elizabeth plotline, and the Georgiana-needing-to-get-over Ramsgate-and-her-innate-shyness plotline, and the Caroline-Bingley-vs.-Eliza storyline, and the Anne-vs.-Lady Catherine plotline. There are others I could mention, but this review is getting too long as it is. Trust me: There are a LOT of plotlines. They do overlap, but their turning points and resolutions are independent of each other.
This has an interesting, original premise and interesting, well-developed characters. The writing is excellent. There’s just too much. Too much introspection. Too much plot. Too much!
When a book has a whole lot of great stuff going for it, I don't usually begin a review by pointing out the negatives. However, I'm thoroughly frustrated by this author. He comes up with wonderful story ideas, and his writing is so, so good. Every one of his books could be 5 stars. But I have the same criticism of his work that I usually do.
Mr. Rowland spends way too much time explaining the characters' thoughts in tedious and repetitive detail. I will acknowledge that it's less here than in some of his previous books, but it's still the major flaw in most of his works. This story would be much improved if about one-quarter of it was eliminated by getting rid of all that chaff weighing it down. I get annoyed at Elizabeth, annoyed at Darcy and annoyed at Anne de Bourgh because I must wade through paragraphs and sometimes pages of the same thoughts they were thinking two chapters ago.
Now for some of the positives.
Lizzy is over-the-top perfect, but I like her anyway. It’s very likely you’ll start thinking of her as Saint Elizabeth by the story's end. I know I did. She is the glue that holds the story together and an incredibly positive influence on all the troubled souls she encounters.
Despite that, it's really Anne de Bourgh who steals the book. We get a completely fresh and believable approach to her character. This 25-year-old woman has been treated like a 10-year-old her entire life. This leaves her with no idea what she's been missing in the world outside Lady Catherine's domain. And she has never had any desire to go head-to-head with Lady Catherine's forceful personality anyway, even when she has disagreed. Fortunately, she has figured out how to gently nudge her mother in a particular direction at times, and that's how Elizabeth comes into Rosings as her new companion/friend. This friendship has a profound effect on the oversheltered young lady, and the book does a marvelous job of showing Anne gradually coming out of her cocoon.
Poor Elizabeth can see where Anne's increasing discontent with Lady C. is heading and tries to suggest small steps toward asserting herself. Unsurprisingly, Anne is a chip off the old block, so when she finally breaks out of her shell, all hell breaks loose at Rosings.
That’s where Darcy enters the fray. The story moves to London, where Anne is still very reliant on Elizabeth to boost her self-confidence. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner and Jane Bennet finally enter the book. Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Georgiana start getting some significant page time. Elizabeth learns more about Darcy and about Mr. Wickham, while Anne and others conspire to make Darcy and Elizabeth realize they’re perfect for each other. I do enjoy the bond that develops among Anne, Jane, Georgiana, and, of course, Elizabeth.
I must point out another negative, though. There’s quite a bit going on here, especially in the last part of the story, as we have the Bingley-and-Jane plotline, and the Darcy-and-Elizabeth plotline, and the Georgiana-needing-to-get-over Ramsgate-and-her-innate-shyness plotline, and the Caroline-Bingley-vs.-Eliza storyline, and the Anne-vs.-Lady Catherine plotline. There are others I could mention, but this review is getting too long as it is. Trust me: There are a LOT of plotlines. They do overlap, but their turning points and resolutions are independent of each other.
This has an interesting, original premise and interesting, well-developed characters. The writing is excellent. There’s just too much. Too much introspection. Too much plot. Too much!
September 25, 2017
Friends are relatives you make for yourself. ~ Eustache Deschamps
Anne de Bourgh has relatives a plenty – a mother who may or may not know what is best for her; a cousin who fears to speak more than a few words to her lest her mother order her wedding clothes; an aunt and uncle who rarely see her and don’t understand how her mother controls her every thought.
But has Anne ever had a friend?
Anne’s lifelong companion, Mrs. Jenkinson, dies suddenly during Elizabeth’s visit to Hunsford. A suitable replacement is difficult to find. At Anne’s request, Lady Catherine offers the position to Elizabeth Bennet. Elizabeth fears a refusal would adversely affect Charlotte Collins, so she agrees to stay temporarily as a friend but refuses the job of paid companion.
Lady Catherine’s insistence on marriage between Darcy and Anne has caused Darcy to remain in London and cancel his usual springtime visit.
The best time to make friends is before you need them. ~ Ethel Barrymore
Elizabeth discovers Anne has much more depth of character than anyone would have known. Over the weeks of their relationship, the two young women develop a true respect and appreciation for each other. Anne changes under Elizabeth’s influence.
Lady Catherine is distraught over the changes in Anne, not seeing her growth as improvement but as disobedience. When conditions at Rosings grow worse, Anne rebels completely and sends for her cousins to take her and Elizabeth to London.
It is not so much our friends’ help that helps us, as the confidence of their help. ~ Epicurus
Elizabeth and Anne stay at Darcy’s home in London where Elizabeth befriends Georgiana and Darcy longs for a deeper friendship with Elizabeth.
I enjoyed the developing friendship between Elizabeth and Anne. As Anne’s personality was freed from her mother’s control, she finds she can be friends with all her cousins including Darcy. She meets Jane Bennet and feels closeness with her almost at once.
The usual lovers and villains make their appearances, but the real story here is Anne and her Mother. Can Lady Catherine see her daughter as anything but a sickly child? Can Anne develop an adult relationship with Lady Catherine?
The strongest marriage is between two who seek the same God, the strongest friendship between two who flee the same devil. ~ Robert Brault
Anne de Bourgh has relatives a plenty – a mother who may or may not know what is best for her; a cousin who fears to speak more than a few words to her lest her mother order her wedding clothes; an aunt and uncle who rarely see her and don’t understand how her mother controls her every thought.
But has Anne ever had a friend?
Anne’s lifelong companion, Mrs. Jenkinson, dies suddenly during Elizabeth’s visit to Hunsford. A suitable replacement is difficult to find. At Anne’s request, Lady Catherine offers the position to Elizabeth Bennet. Elizabeth fears a refusal would adversely affect Charlotte Collins, so she agrees to stay temporarily as a friend but refuses the job of paid companion.
Lady Catherine’s insistence on marriage between Darcy and Anne has caused Darcy to remain in London and cancel his usual springtime visit.
The best time to make friends is before you need them. ~ Ethel Barrymore
Elizabeth discovers Anne has much more depth of character than anyone would have known. Over the weeks of their relationship, the two young women develop a true respect and appreciation for each other. Anne changes under Elizabeth’s influence.
Lady Catherine is distraught over the changes in Anne, not seeing her growth as improvement but as disobedience. When conditions at Rosings grow worse, Anne rebels completely and sends for her cousins to take her and Elizabeth to London.
It is not so much our friends’ help that helps us, as the confidence of their help. ~ Epicurus
Elizabeth and Anne stay at Darcy’s home in London where Elizabeth befriends Georgiana and Darcy longs for a deeper friendship with Elizabeth.
I enjoyed the developing friendship between Elizabeth and Anne. As Anne’s personality was freed from her mother’s control, she finds she can be friends with all her cousins including Darcy. She meets Jane Bennet and feels closeness with her almost at once.
The usual lovers and villains make their appearances, but the real story here is Anne and her Mother. Can Lady Catherine see her daughter as anything but a sickly child? Can Anne develop an adult relationship with Lady Catherine?
The strongest marriage is between two who seek the same God, the strongest friendship between two who flee the same devil. ~ Robert Brault
March 6, 2018
“Never have a companion that casts you in the shade.” –Baltasar Gracian
“Hope… is the companion of power, and the mother of success; for who so hopes has within him the gift of miracles.” --Samuel Smiles
Anne had hopes and dreams but was never able to realize them while she lived under the thumb of her domineering mother and the stifling attentions of Mrs. Jenkinson. When that companion died, Lady Catherine started the process of interviewing ladies to replace her. Anne had another plan in mind and that was how Elizabeth Bennet became a friend and temporary companion. Not a paid companion, as that would ruin her reputation as a gentleman’s daughter, but as Anne’s particular friend.
Elizabeth Bennet: Valued companionships begin with a personal commitment to be an exemplary companion.” –Joseph B. Wirthlin
Elizabeth was caught between a rock and a hard place. On her spring visit with her dear friend Charlotte Collins neé Lucas, Lady Catherine made her an offer she could not refuse. If she did, it might make life difficult for Charlotte. However, Elizabeth would only accept the offer on her own terms.
Lady Catherine reluctantly conceded to Anne’s request for Miss Elizabeth to be her companion/particular friend. As time went on, she did not know how to act or respond to her daughter’s changing attitude and behavior and was shocked to realize that none of her former parenting strategies worked on this new version of Anne de Bourgh. And… it was the fault of that chit from the country… Miss Elizabeth Bennet. This was a predicament that had NEVER happened before at Rosings and the servants found themselves between their own rock and hard place.
I loved this story. I needed a slower pace and this one met that requirement for me. It was like inner tubing down a lazy river. It wasn’t heavy in the angst department, or hazardous white knuckle, white-water type of rapids either. There were a few rough places and that just made the story more interesting. I loved this Darcy and Elizabeth. Even though this was sort of Anne’s story, their story still shone through the chaos of Lady Catherine’s tirade. Our dear Colonel and Georgiana were a delight and did all they could for their cousin.
We still had to deal with the villains… the usual suspects, of course; however, they were dealt with in their time. This clean story reinforced our knowledge that cream will always rise to the top if the conditions allow it to happen and Elizabeth simply assisted with that process.
“Hope… is the companion of power, and the mother of success; for who so hopes has within him the gift of miracles.” --Samuel Smiles
Anne had hopes and dreams but was never able to realize them while she lived under the thumb of her domineering mother and the stifling attentions of Mrs. Jenkinson. When that companion died, Lady Catherine started the process of interviewing ladies to replace her. Anne had another plan in mind and that was how Elizabeth Bennet became a friend and temporary companion. Not a paid companion, as that would ruin her reputation as a gentleman’s daughter, but as Anne’s particular friend.
Elizabeth Bennet: Valued companionships begin with a personal commitment to be an exemplary companion.” –Joseph B. Wirthlin
Elizabeth was caught between a rock and a hard place. On her spring visit with her dear friend Charlotte Collins neé Lucas, Lady Catherine made her an offer she could not refuse. If she did, it might make life difficult for Charlotte. However, Elizabeth would only accept the offer on her own terms.
Lady Catherine reluctantly conceded to Anne’s request for Miss Elizabeth to be her companion/particular friend. As time went on, she did not know how to act or respond to her daughter’s changing attitude and behavior and was shocked to realize that none of her former parenting strategies worked on this new version of Anne de Bourgh. And… it was the fault of that chit from the country… Miss Elizabeth Bennet. This was a predicament that had NEVER happened before at Rosings and the servants found themselves between their own rock and hard place.
I loved this story. I needed a slower pace and this one met that requirement for me. It was like inner tubing down a lazy river. It wasn’t heavy in the angst department, or hazardous white knuckle, white-water type of rapids either. There were a few rough places and that just made the story more interesting. I loved this Darcy and Elizabeth. Even though this was sort of Anne’s story, their story still shone through the chaos of Lady Catherine’s tirade. Our dear Colonel and Georgiana were a delight and did all they could for their cousin.
We still had to deal with the villains… the usual suspects, of course; however, they were dealt with in their time. This clean story reinforced our knowledge that cream will always rise to the top if the conditions allow it to happen and Elizabeth simply assisted with that process.
December 26, 2022
This one is pretty good if you fancy a Saint Lizzy story in which Elizabeth fixes everyone's life and gets fawned for it.
Anne DeBourgh's companion dies, Elizabeth gets drafted to replace her. She goes on to liberate Anne from her mother's oppression and ends up going to London with her, living in Darcy's townhome. Mrs Annesley is there to chaperone but still, you hardly see her and it seems a somewhat irregular arrangement although Miss Bingley is the only one to object. Living with Darcy is good for courting though, and for cheering up Georgiana as well. Darcy's Fitzwilliam relations love Elizabeth and even Lady Catherine softens eventually. There is no fiery Hunsford type confrontation between Darcy and Elizabeth but he does see the error of his ways and she begins to esteem him more.
Okay, maybe it's technically Anne who fixes Jane and Bingley's life, but Elizabeth is the reason she's in a position to do it so Anne scored the goal and Elizabeth got a point for assisting.
Steam level: Nah. No one took the opportunity for improperly attired trysts and I am not sure the possibility even occurred to any of these people.
I enjoyed this story but sometimes it seemed that everyone else grew up but Lizzy started out as perfect in every way.
Anne DeBourgh's companion dies, Elizabeth gets drafted to replace her. She goes on to liberate Anne from her mother's oppression and ends up going to London with her, living in Darcy's townhome. Mrs Annesley is there to chaperone but still, you hardly see her and it seems a somewhat irregular arrangement although Miss Bingley is the only one to object. Living with Darcy is good for courting though, and for cheering up Georgiana as well. Darcy's Fitzwilliam relations love Elizabeth and even Lady Catherine softens eventually. There is no fiery Hunsford type confrontation between Darcy and Elizabeth but he does see the error of his ways and she begins to esteem him more.
Okay, maybe it's technically Anne who fixes Jane and Bingley's life, but Elizabeth is the reason she's in a position to do it so Anne scored the goal and Elizabeth got a point for assisting.
Steam level: Nah. No one took the opportunity for improperly attired trysts and I am not sure the possibility even occurred to any of these people.
I enjoyed this story but sometimes it seemed that everyone else grew up but Lizzy started out as perfect in every way.
February 14, 2018
Well written story but it failed to engage me.
Enters when Elizabeth is visiting the Collins' at Hunsford.
Mrs Jenkins dies and Elizabeth agrees reluctantly to be Anne's companion until a replacement can be found.
Darcy does not come on his usual Easter visit as his aunt has become a bit too forceful in her machinations.
Anne developed a backbone through Elizabeth's tutelage and finally stood up against her mother.
The party removes to London and their are introductions, parties and a bit of a debacle with miss Bingley.
Ends with weddings in Hertfordshire.
This book was too uneventful and slow paced to hold my attention, hence the 3*.
Enters when Elizabeth is visiting the Collins' at Hunsford.
Mrs Jenkins dies and Elizabeth agrees reluctantly to be Anne's companion until a replacement can be found.
Darcy does not come on his usual Easter visit as his aunt has become a bit too forceful in her machinations.
Anne developed a backbone through Elizabeth's tutelage and finally stood up against her mother.
The party removes to London and their are introductions, parties and a bit of a debacle with miss Bingley.
Ends with weddings in Hertfordshire.
This book was too uneventful and slow paced to hold my attention, hence the 3*.
December 7, 2019
3.5⭐️ the first 1/2 was a bit slow for me.
December 25, 2022
2022- This is such a sweet story. Starts out really strong. I love the relationship that grows between Elizabeth and Anne. It does get a little too sweet and perfect towards the end. But that makes it a guaranteed HRA for all (or nearly all).
Perfectly enjoyable. Another JR gem. One his more low-keyed books.
Perfectly enjoyable. Another JR gem. One his more low-keyed books.
May 7, 2018
Surprising
Who would have thought Anne de Bourgh could be such an interesting character? I really enjoyed her development and the story is different and entertaining. A very worthwhile read.
Who would have thought Anne de Bourgh could be such an interesting character? I really enjoyed her development and the story is different and entertaining. A very worthwhile read.
October 21, 2017
Elizabeth saves the day through her love of life and sense of injustice. She helps everyone see what they can be and finds her happily ever after with Darcy in the process. The focus of the book is actually Anne de Bourgh rather than Elizabeth.
It was a fun read.
It was a fun read.
October 9, 2017
Elizabeth Bennet Saves the World
Well, maybe not the whole world but our intrepid heroine
Well, maybe not the whole world but our intrepid heroine
January 25, 2018
The beginning of this book is SLOW. But then it picks up and ends almost abruptly. I loved the Elizabeth and Ann relationship. Magnificent. I also liked the courting of E by D. But the end became just a miss mash of too many plot lines many of which were not necessarily new or inventive. I highly recommend you also read the reviews of my friends Rose and Debbie and Leslie as they are spot on.
Also, i noticed many grammatical errors that should not be in this author's work. Like she instead of he etc.
Also, i noticed many grammatical errors that should not be in this author's work. Like she instead of he etc.
August 23, 2019
The very far cry from the original characters and the conflict, where everyone turns to be good - even Mrs. Bennet and Lady Catherine.
There's very little logic to plot movement and the editing is not good enough.
There's very little logic to plot movement and the editing is not good enough.
October 21, 2023
353 pages on my Kindle for PC. There are several very long reviews almost being "spoilers". However as this variation has little angst and is predictable in most parts what is said should draw readers in.
The title is a bit misleading as when Mrs. Jenkinson dies and Lady C. runs out of candidates she tries to "hire" E. who is having none of that. Elizabeth agrees to be Anne's friend acting in-loco of a companion. Their friendship has Anne becoming a completely new person. When Lady Catherine's outrage at Anne's seeming rebellion reaches a pinnacle, Anne and Elizabeth find refuge at Darcy's London townhouse.
Now we read of an expanded circle of friends for Anne: Jane and Georgiana. Both those ladies benefit from their new acquaintances. Lady Matlock is also a support. Elizabeth's stay away from Longbourn ends up lasting months as we read of her part in advising and even comforting others.
Wickham has a part and Lady Catherine is not ready to let Anne become totally independent. I did like how Caroline Bingley is "handled" in several places: especially as she attempts to pull the "class" card in her disdain of the Bennet sisters.
I enjoyed this long story although for me it dragged in some places. I have read and enjoyed many of this author's stories and recommend this along with others of his.
The title is a bit misleading as when Mrs. Jenkinson dies and Lady C. runs out of candidates she tries to "hire" E. who is having none of that. Elizabeth agrees to be Anne's friend acting in-loco of a companion. Their friendship has Anne becoming a completely new person. When Lady Catherine's outrage at Anne's seeming rebellion reaches a pinnacle, Anne and Elizabeth find refuge at Darcy's London townhouse.
Now we read of an expanded circle of friends for Anne: Jane and Georgiana. Both those ladies benefit from their new acquaintances. Lady Matlock is also a support. Elizabeth's stay away from Longbourn ends up lasting months as we read of her part in advising and even comforting others.
Wickham has a part and Lady Catherine is not ready to let Anne become totally independent. I did like how Caroline Bingley is "handled" in several places: especially as she attempts to pull the "class" card in her disdain of the Bennet sisters.
I enjoyed this long story although for me it dragged in some places. I have read and enjoyed many of this author's stories and recommend this along with others of his.
February 11, 2018
3.5 stars, maybe 3.75 I don't really like to write reviews of books that I've given less than 4 stars. But this one was good, it kept me reading, I loved the premise.
The Companion is another Pride and Prejudice variation, and I really liked the whole idea of it, which explored the coming of age of Anne de Bourgh, the formidable Lady Catherine's daughter. In this variation, Elizabeth Bennet is visiting her friend Charlotte, after Charlotte's marriage to Mr. Collins, and has attended a few dinners and other social engagements at Rosings, when the death of Anne's companion leads to Elizabeth being asked to fill that role, which she only agrees to temporarily. Her influence leads Anne to realize she wants to be free from her tyrannical mother's influence, and the story takes off from there.
The story veers off from, or maybe exaggerates, some of the known characters, Caroline Bingley in particular, and the plot bogs down a bit in a few places, making in my opinion a longer story of this than was necessary. But I think for those who like P&P variations this provides yet another interesting possibility. I'm certainly not sorry I read it. I like the woman that Anne blossoms into, and I like the outcome with Lady Catherine, which I won't say anymore about, because it's really worth reading for oneself to see how that turns out.
The Companion is another Pride and Prejudice variation, and I really liked the whole idea of it, which explored the coming of age of Anne de Bourgh, the formidable Lady Catherine's daughter. In this variation, Elizabeth Bennet is visiting her friend Charlotte, after Charlotte's marriage to Mr. Collins, and has attended a few dinners and other social engagements at Rosings, when the death of Anne's companion leads to Elizabeth being asked to fill that role, which she only agrees to temporarily. Her influence leads Anne to realize she wants to be free from her tyrannical mother's influence, and the story takes off from there.
The story veers off from, or maybe exaggerates, some of the known characters, Caroline Bingley in particular, and the plot bogs down a bit in a few places, making in my opinion a longer story of this than was necessary. But I think for those who like P&P variations this provides yet another interesting possibility. I'm certainly not sorry I read it. I like the woman that Anne blossoms into, and I like the outcome with Lady Catherine, which I won't say anymore about, because it's really worth reading for oneself to see how that turns out.
October 20, 2017
Lacking omph
This is expertly written by one of my favored authors but I felt it lacked originality and that little bit of something that inhibits you from putting the book down. The characters were well developed, the plot seamless, but I didn't get any 'romance' from it. The main focus of the book I would say would be Anne and her development and friendship with Lizzy. I think there was a little too much repetition in the character's thoughts, when reading their insights and feelings it seemed to go on a good long while which dragged out the read for me. The plot wasn't anything new really, no major angst or hurtles the characters needed to jump.
I'd dub this a solid alternative P&P novel focused on the life and development of Anne DeB. Not a romance as I was hoping.
I love this author and always can count on him for a reliably good read without fear of it being outlandish or way out of the time period. His other works are amazing and I guess I just prefer them to this one. I recommend this to anyone desiring a deeper and different look at friendly relationships within P&P, but not to someone wanting Darcy/Lizzy romance.
This is expertly written by one of my favored authors but I felt it lacked originality and that little bit of something that inhibits you from putting the book down. The characters were well developed, the plot seamless, but I didn't get any 'romance' from it. The main focus of the book I would say would be Anne and her development and friendship with Lizzy. I think there was a little too much repetition in the character's thoughts, when reading their insights and feelings it seemed to go on a good long while which dragged out the read for me. The plot wasn't anything new really, no major angst or hurtles the characters needed to jump.
I'd dub this a solid alternative P&P novel focused on the life and development of Anne DeB. Not a romance as I was hoping.
I love this author and always can count on him for a reliably good read without fear of it being outlandish or way out of the time period. His other works are amazing and I guess I just prefer them to this one. I recommend this to anyone desiring a deeper and different look at friendly relationships within P&P, but not to someone wanting Darcy/Lizzy romance.
August 26, 2023
Rereading in order to formulate a Pride & Prejudice Variation Rec List.
This book suffers from an extremely common problem in this subgenre: it's all fix-it, no plot. The conflict between Anne and her mother is resolved about a third of the way through, and after that the book is basically conflict-free. There's no interpersonal drama--Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love easily, though their romance is extremely bland. Anne is now a confident young woman with no sequelae from a life of being abused and isolated--no, instead she's a conveniently observant and devious young woman who is just there to act as matchmaker for Jane and Elizabeth. Everyone loves Elizabeth and immediately accepts her, and this book does a thing I hate where every side character is just there to tell us how great the main couple are together. Jane and Bingley fall back in love after one meeting. Two thirds of the book is just pretty boring descriptions of everyone having a good time.
It could have worked if it was a much shorter novel, but this drags.
This book suffers from an extremely common problem in this subgenre: it's all fix-it, no plot. The conflict between Anne and her mother is resolved about a third of the way through, and after that the book is basically conflict-free. There's no interpersonal drama--Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love easily, though their romance is extremely bland. Anne is now a confident young woman with no sequelae from a life of being abused and isolated--no, instead she's a conveniently observant and devious young woman who is just there to act as matchmaker for Jane and Elizabeth. Everyone loves Elizabeth and immediately accepts her, and this book does a thing I hate where every side character is just there to tell us how great the main couple are together. Jane and Bingley fall back in love after one meeting. Two thirds of the book is just pretty boring descriptions of everyone having a good time.
It could have worked if it was a much shorter novel, but this drags.
September 6, 2024
4.5* rounded up. Very interesting book. I enjoyed seeing the transformation of Anne deBourgh, effected by Elizabeth when she befriends Anne after Mrs. Jenkinson dies. There was a lot of humor in the book, along with other emotions. I would have liked a bit of an epilogue, though the ending was nice. Lady Catherine was a force of nature, but as Anne grew into herself as a real person, due to Elizabeth's friendship and encouragement, she was a fair match for her mother. Even Mr. Collins could see the good that Elizabeth had done for Anne, and was prepared to counsel Lady Catherine to be more understanding of Anne and her need for happiness. I was sorry not to hear anything about that when Lady Catherine later returned to London to mend her relationship with Anne.
Of course, I loved the many times when Miss Bingley was chastised and got her comeuppance from Elizabeth, Anne, and Lady Matlock. In spite of my love for the schadenfreude, it was nice to see a Miss Bingley that realizes her delusions and does not go off her rocker for being denied a marriage to Mr. Darcy.
Later on, I loved how Lady Catherine took Lydia in hand after she comes back from Brighton somewhat in disgrace.
The romance between Elizabeth and Darcy was sweet and it was nice to see Darcy gradually coming to realize the things he needed to change/improve about himself without needing that shocking "Hunsford Moment".
Very nice book and I recommend it to any JAFF lover!
Of course, I loved the many times when Miss Bingley was chastised and got her comeuppance from Elizabeth, Anne, and Lady Matlock. In spite of my love for the schadenfreude, it was nice to see a Miss Bingley that realizes her delusions and does not go off her rocker for being denied a marriage to Mr. Darcy.
Later on, I loved how Lady Catherine took Lydia in hand after she comes back from Brighton somewhat in disgrace.
The romance between Elizabeth and Darcy was sweet and it was nice to see Darcy gradually coming to realize the things he needed to change/improve about himself without needing that shocking "Hunsford Moment".
Very nice book and I recommend it to any JAFF lover!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2017
5.0 out of 5 starsThe Companion that wasn't a companion but a great friend!
Bymaryannon September 23, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Once again Mr. Rowland developed a plot to a novel that was different and interesting. Characters were well written into the plot as to the character of the person. He showed depth into each character as it was well represented as you read the story. Lady Catherine as well as her daughter, Anne, were shown in a different light and I thought it was a marvelous idea to have them change in personality and character. Lady Catherine's change was near the end of the story. Naturally Caroline Bingley always remains the same and that is to be expected. Anne's character was well portrayed by the author and made the plot exceptional. I also love the antics that were played out from time to time throughout the novel by Anne.
No plot would be remiss without the Colonel wiggling his eyebrows. Oh how I love his character in any novel.
It is a wonderful novel to read and makes you smile and very enjoyable. I loved the way the love blossomed between Darcy and Elizabeth .
Thank you Mr. Rowland for a very pleasant read!
Bymaryannon September 23, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Once again Mr. Rowland developed a plot to a novel that was different and interesting. Characters were well written into the plot as to the character of the person. He showed depth into each character as it was well represented as you read the story. Lady Catherine as well as her daughter, Anne, were shown in a different light and I thought it was a marvelous idea to have them change in personality and character. Lady Catherine's change was near the end of the story. Naturally Caroline Bingley always remains the same and that is to be expected. Anne's character was well portrayed by the author and made the plot exceptional. I also love the antics that were played out from time to time throughout the novel by Anne.
No plot would be remiss without the Colonel wiggling his eyebrows. Oh how I love his character in any novel.
It is a wonderful novel to read and makes you smile and very enjoyable. I loved the way the love blossomed between Darcy and Elizabeth .
Thank you Mr. Rowland for a very pleasant read!
October 1, 2017
I love what Rowland has done with the characters in this Pride and Prejudice variation. Austen's caricatures are fleshed out and the drama is believable rather than over-the-top as in many variations.
This story involves Lizzy becoming Miss DeBourgh's companion for the duration of her stay in Kent while Darcy stays away, claiming to be too busy to visit. Slowly, Lizzy helps Anne DeBourgh gain confidence and Lady Catherine is less than thrilled with Miss Bennet's influence on her daughter. It's not long before Anne seeks the help of her cousins in her fight for independence from her mother and her new bestie, Lizzy, is along for the ride.
This was a sweet and charming read where the characters blossomed. The focus is more on friendships than romance but there is still enough furtive glances and loving words to please the fan-girls!
This story involves Lizzy becoming Miss DeBourgh's companion for the duration of her stay in Kent while Darcy stays away, claiming to be too busy to visit. Slowly, Lizzy helps Anne DeBourgh gain confidence and Lady Catherine is less than thrilled with Miss Bennet's influence on her daughter. It's not long before Anne seeks the help of her cousins in her fight for independence from her mother and her new bestie, Lizzy, is along for the ride.
This was a sweet and charming read where the characters blossomed. The focus is more on friendships than romance but there is still enough furtive glances and loving words to please the fan-girls!
October 30, 2021
Lizzy and Anne de Bourgh as besties!
This starts off in the middle of Lizzy’s stay in Kent. Mrs. Jenkinson dies unexpectedly, and not long after Anne de Bourgh convinces her mother to offer the post to Elizabeth. After an unenthusiastic start, Anne finally opens up to Lizzy about how she maneuvered her mother to offer the post. She was desirous of a friend, one of her own choosing who would show her how to live, not just exist. Everything proceeds mostly smoothly until Anne decides she’s had enough of Lady Catherine’s domineering ways.
I enjoyed this story immensely; there is no disastrous marriage proposal, and Wickham is merely a side story. It is one of the best P&P variations, in my humble opinion. You willl not be disappointed.
This starts off in the middle of Lizzy’s stay in Kent. Mrs. Jenkinson dies unexpectedly, and not long after Anne de Bourgh convinces her mother to offer the post to Elizabeth. After an unenthusiastic start, Anne finally opens up to Lizzy about how she maneuvered her mother to offer the post. She was desirous of a friend, one of her own choosing who would show her how to live, not just exist. Everything proceeds mostly smoothly until Anne decides she’s had enough of Lady Catherine’s domineering ways.
I enjoyed this story immensely; there is no disastrous marriage proposal, and Wickham is merely a side story. It is one of the best P&P variations, in my humble opinion. You willl not be disappointed.
November 17, 2017
4.5 stars rounded up. I think this might be my favorite Jann Rowland book to date. I enjoyed the storyline and how the characters were portrayed. I especially loved Lizzy. Caroline gets what she deserves but appears to learn her lesson. Wickham and Lady Catherine get their due too. While it wasn’t all Lizzy and Darcy, all the time, we get enough romance. Why not five stars?The ending felt rushed and just a minor annoyance where a character changes so much they’re unrecognizable, well almost.
October 9, 2017
Very interesting take on P&P. At first, I didn't think I was going to like it because there was quite awhile before Darcy even came into the picture. However, I enjoyed all the characters in this version. I had to mark down slightly because the ending was so rushed, but the story was well-written and very enjoyable.
October 11, 2017
This is yet another incredibly well written variation by Jann Rowland. If you're looking for a Darcy/Elizabeth love-fest, this is not the book for you. Yes, they get their HEA, but this book is not about them. It is about the friendship that develops between Elizabeth and Anne first and foremost and it is lovely.
October 12, 2017
Avid Reader
I found the development of friendship between Elizabeth and Anne Debourgh fascinating. Anne's determination to speak up and love her life away from her mother. Darcy and Elizabeth help her, and she in turn helps Elizabeth to recognize Darcy for who he is. Anne also thwarts Caroline along with Lady Susan and brings Jane and Bingley back together.
I found the development of friendship between Elizabeth and Anne Debourgh fascinating. Anne's determination to speak up and love her life away from her mother. Darcy and Elizabeth help her, and she in turn helps Elizabeth to recognize Darcy for who he is. Anne also thwarts Caroline along with Lady Susan and brings Jane and Bingley back together.
November 30, 2017
A Fine Character Study
This novel it's a well written and edited character study of Elizabeth Bennet and Anne Dee Bourgh. It loosely follows canon with no angst and a minimum of new characters. The men play a very secondary role, even Mr Darcy. My only complaint is never sensing that spark of chemistry from either of our dear couple.
This novel it's a well written and edited character study of Elizabeth Bennet and Anne Dee Bourgh. It loosely follows canon with no angst and a minimum of new characters. The men play a very secondary role, even Mr Darcy. My only complaint is never sensing that spark of chemistry from either of our dear couple.
December 25, 2017
Too much Anne, no where near enough Elizabeth and Darcy. I didn’t like how Anne treated Elizabeth. They were great friends but somehow it felt like Elizabeth was her pet - to be manipulated and praised and petted.
Well written but not enough romance for me.
Well written but not enough romance for me.
October 11, 2021
Interesting twist about a friendship between Elizabeth Bennet and Anne de Bourgh
Interesting twist about a friendship between Elizabeth Bennet and Anne de Bourgh and how Elizabeth changes her life and Anne in turn changes hers. I would recommend this book.
Interesting twist about a friendship between Elizabeth Bennet and Anne de Bourgh and how Elizabeth changes her life and Anne in turn changes hers. I would recommend this book.
August 22, 2024
I wanted to give more stars
But it needs quite a lot of editing. It's a very good story but it is not as enjoyable to read as other P&P books if I have to repair so many sentences in my head.
But it needs quite a lot of editing. It's a very good story but it is not as enjoyable to read as other P&P books if I have to repair so many sentences in my head.
February 15, 2018
A slow burn but enjoyable read
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