Prosperity: Progression Vol. 4

by Jodi L. Covey

The 4th and final installment of the Progression series! Life in Derbyshire could not be better as Mr. and Mrs. Darcy rejoice in the birth of their second child. But the celebration at Pemberley takes a turn for the bittersweet when they are faced with a looming threat to their felicity, a homecoming Darcy had been anticipating (and dreading) for two years. Concurrently, he must come to terms with his sister's love for a most determined suitor, who suffers but one fatal, immutable flaw. Removed to London, troubles mount as William and Elizabeth must contend with one encumbrance after a dying relation, her devilish husband, a pompous duke, and a wild, willful sister seemingly hell-bent on bringing scandal, and even danger, upon herself and her family. Also hell-bent is Caroline Bingley Cotter and her embittered but devoted husband as they seek to free themselves from the demons that plague them by way of satisfying a mad thirst for vengeance. Meanwhile... War hero, heir, and eligible bachelor, Richard Fitzwilliam, immersed in a torrid love affair, remains torn between duty and passion as he teams with Darcy in London to deal with a rogue nobleman who is not all that he seems to be. Each conflict centers on the return of the self-seeking, paradoxical Marquess Thornhaugh, who ever laughs at life as he lives it freely, no matter the consequences. Struggling with their own conflict is Charlotte (Collins) Thompson and Matthew Fitzwilliam as they face respective challenges within their families and themselves. Each character works toward a common goal of lifelong prosperity, but which path is the correct one to take? Twice the length of the first volume, Prosperity is meant to be read after Progression volumes 1,2 and 3. There are no explicit scenes, but some mature language.

364 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 17, 2018

About the author

Jodi L. Covey is an Alabama native with a B.S. in Journalism, but a passion for great storytelling. Her love of Pride and Prejudice began in 2003, after which a growing obsession with continuing Austen's wonderful story followed. She currently lives in Florence, Alabama with her awesome husband and daughter.

Reviews

[J. W. Garrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

How do you end a chronicle? It just keeps on going and going

Vol 1: [chapters 1-36] 4-stars
Vol 2: [chapters 37-61] 4-stars
Vol 3: [chapters 62-95] 4-stars

Rating: MA: mild language, violence, sex scenes, sensual language and content. Trigger warnings due to violence mentioned, fight scenes, duel and aftermath.

This review may contain SPOILERS especially if the other stories have not been read first. This volume could be read as a stand-a-lone; however, due to story threads being continued from the previous books, I would suggest reading the other volumes first. This whole series was a chronicle with focus centered on the activities of main and secondary characters from Austen’s P&P. The author made a point to touch base with each-and-every character… secondary, tertiary, and beyond even if they only made a comment or walked through the scene. Everyone received page time. However, that was a bit maddening and tedious throughout four volumes only to round up their conclusion in a paragraph and then they were gone.

We open two years after Vol 3 with Elizabeth and Darcy preparing for the christening of their daughter and second child. Family had gathered and everyone was able to shine in the spotlight that was the warmth and glow of the Darcy’s love for each other and their little family.

In the last volume, Anne de Bourgh followed her heart and left England for India. Thus, sending her mother to her bed at the rebellious audacity of her child. In this volume Darcy received word of the imminent arrival of a ship from India carrying Lord Malcolm Thornhaugh and his wife Lady Anne Thornhaugh née de Bourgh.

What ever happened to…? Remember those Finding Waldo puzzles? Well, this is finding Wickham in this story. Early on we had word that he went missing from military duty [yeah, he deserted, the rat-bastard] and ever since, I just knew any minute he was going to show up and/or was lurking about in plain sight. No need to look… I doubt you’ll find him… maybe.

Caroline married her Sir Alvin Cotter and did she ever fan the flames of their anger, hatred and bitterness for the higher circles of society and Lord Thornhaugh especially. That would come to a disastrous end and one that will haunt her for a lifetime. Poor Caroline, never could grasp happiness when it was looking her in the face. Oh, this was tragic on so many levels.

Kitty trying to find her happiness. After her crash and burn in the previous book with the Lucas son… I so wanted her to finally ‘get it’ and learn that someone else loved her. This took way too long to resolve.

Georgiana… in the previous story she played a waltz at Almack’s and that action continued to raise its ugly head and haunt Georgiana and the Darcys. The Duke, Lord John Russell’s father, was not impressed with the impropriety of Georgiana’s playing the waltz and even less with ODC dancing it without the sanction of the patronesses. Even though the ton continued to discuss the dance, the patronesses, in an attempt to maintain their control, declared that it never happened. That only inflamed the gossips. The ton was split over glee and acceptance of ODC’s defiance and disdain for their audacity in flaunting their behavior before the ton.

Charlotte married her doctor Thompson and are raising Collins’ daughter together. I really like this guy. Charlotte’s brother Christian had to be dealt with. Did I detect a hint of something with his friend? Or was that just the manner in which it was written and I picked up on something that wasn’t there? If so… my bad.

Bennet continued to hang on to his life force. For a sick man… he has lasted through all four volumes. Mrs. Bennet is the same… lawd, that woman. I enjoyed time between Bennet and his favorite daughters. Mrs. B continued to open her mouth and insert her dainty slippered feet… where Lizzy was concerned. She simply could not hold her tongue in her nasty comments. No one could rein her in. Even Lady Matlock was disgusted with her. What was her problem? Seriously… I don’t think we ever knew exactly why she was so against Lizzy.

Lord and Lady Matlock were present throughout the volumes. They had been through a lot and endured much with the family crashing and burning around them. As head of the family, Lord Matlock had his hands full. When they lost their eldest son in the last book, it nearly did them in. That then placed our dear Colonel in an untenable position as the heir. Bless his heart, all he ever wanted to do was to serve country and King. The managing of his own happiness was simply not in his wheelhouse.

Lizzy and Darcy… continued in their love for each other. Darcy was torn on so many levels throughout this story. He was jerked here and there. The weight of so many problems falling in his lap. After putting out little fires here and there… he was then jerked back to another problem with someone else. I grew tired of poor Darcy being manipulated to the point his mercurial emotions warred with his sensibilities. His inner conflict finally got to me. I resented his being forced to go beyond his endurance and losing his grasp on behavior that he knew was right and losing control and acting in a way that was certainly not Darcy. I really felt for him. Elizabeth was his stabilizing anchor and aided him on so many occasions. I loved them together.

Lydia: “You will do foolish things but do them with enthusiasm.” –Colette

Lydia was Lydia and then some. Since Wickham went missing, she just knew in her heart that he was dead. She had been playing the ‘merry widow’ card in Meryton until everyone was disgusted with her. They sent her to London to get her out of Meryton society and Bennet’s hair. When she saw that her widow’s weeds were preventing her from attending functions, she dressed up and crashed Lizzy’s party pretending to be someone else. OMG! She did not… yes, she did.

After a while, no one could tolerate her. She rebelled at every turn; neglected her child, demanded to be entertained, flirted shamelessly in public and caused all manner of trouble. Even Elizabeth had reached the end of her rope. She was about to send Lydia home to her mother when the little tramp went and placed herself in a position that was dangerous, self-destructive and could destroy her life along with her reputation and that of her family. Everything was a joke to her. She was a wild child acting the part of a seductress. She was playing with fire and was about to get burned.

Lydia soon encountered someone who saw right through her and called her on it. I have never read a better analysis of Lydia’s personality. Just from observing her… our person-of-interest detailed her down to the nth degree. It was amazing. He knew what needed to be done and decided it was up to him to address and correct this dangerous game of hers. We didn’t see what he did; however, we saw the aftermath and was told only bits and pieces of the encounter. Whatever happened… Lydia had a paradigm shift or reality check that put her back on the path of the straight and narrow.

Lydia’s son George: bless his heart… poor little thing had to be dealt with due to his mother’s neglect as she ignored him for her own amusements and pleasures. She was perfectly willing to leave him in the care of others while she lived the high life. Darcy struggled with the mini George Wickham as he fought his growing affections for the toddler. He and Darcy’s son Ben [similar in age] had become great friends and little George adored his Uncle Darcy. Those scenes, where they were together, were so adorable and touching. It made me tear up at the tenderness. What was a man do to? Poor Darcy didn’t want to make the same mistake his own father made with the steward’s son. Yet, he could not ignore this affectionate little toddler.

Colonel Fitzwilliam: Lawd, I love this guy. He was pivotal on so many levels throughout these volumes. He was the man of the hour and had saved Darcy’s hide on more than one occasion. He was the voice of reason and he could stop a raging bull with just a look. He meant business and he knew people if he needed to use them. Man, he was awesome. Forced into situations not of his choosing, he fought duty and his own heart throughout the volumes. I was worried we wouldn’t have a HEA for him.

Many of the secondary characters skirted the fringes of this story. We knew they were there but they didn’t play a big part of the overall story. Many of the scenes could have been trimmed or cut completely.

[wosedwew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life can only be understood backward, but it must be lived forward. ~ Søren Kierkegaard

Progression, Volume 1
Progression, Volume 2
Progression, Volume 3
Prosperity, Progression, Volume 4

Prosperity is the fourth in a series of books which must be read in order. The author does not waste pages recounting events in the previous books. I had read the first two some time ago, so I did a quick re-read before moving to the third and fourth books.

Experience is not what happens to a man. It is what a man does with what happens to him. ~ Aldous Leonard Huxley

In the earlier books we are told many things about the villain, Lord Thornhaugh. A few of his actions are shown. But we see none of his thoughts. His motivations are not explained.

Do we know the truth about Lord Thornhaugh?
Is Anne de Bourgh in danger?
Will Miss Bingley seek revenge?
Will Lord Russell and Georgiana take the next step in their friendship?

No doubt, if you read the earlier stories you have plenty of unanswered questions. I am happy to report that the author did an outstanding job resolving all the loose ends. I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys JAFF.

Mature subject matter and language.

Always when judging
Who people are,
Remember to footnote
The words "So far."
~ Robert Brault

[Carole (in Canada) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Volume 4 (the final book) in the 'Progression' sequel was one I was looking forward to reading. I was not disappointed and each of our unanswered questions from Volume 3 are answered and then some. It is strongly recommended that you read the first 3 Volumes as many of the story threads are wrapped up in this one.

Darcy has learned that the Marquess of Thornhaugh's ship, the Prosperity, has been sighted and on it's way to England. He and Anne de Bourgh, his wife, are returning after 2 years in India. As much as Darcy does not want to leave Pemberley, he feels he must see for himself the well-being of his cousin, Anne. He wants to go alone, but Elizabeth and Georgiana argue otherwise, much to his consternation. Unfortunately, for him, his arguments are void due to an invitation issued by the Duke of Bedford that he, his wife and sister meet with him in London.

Oh the troubles that start landing at their feet, even before leaving Pemberley. Darcy's patience is severely tested as events start spiraling out of his control. Thornhaugh especially knows how to push his buttons. For me, Thornhaugh is a complex individual that no one can pin down as one type or another. He is an enigma. The only one who comes close to understanding him is Anne. What he did for her was exactly what she needed, though many thought otherwise.

"Relying on chance was as much a part of the game as the skill involved in putting the game into motion." (quote from the book)

There is a lot to wrap up in this final continuation. Many have their sights on Thornhaugh and how to bring him down...Caroline (Bingley) Cotter and her husband, Sir Alvin Cotter, in particular. Their circumstances and state of mind are fragile at best and mad at worst. Love blossoms for several characters and some are tested more than others. Lydia will have her day of reckoning and Wickham will have his own.

The book though did start slow for me. Much needed to be put in place before that 'spark' was lit. Overall, I was glad to be back in the world of the Darcy's and the Marquess of Thornhaugh. A character I would truly like to see more of.

I highly recommend this 'Continuation' of Pride and Prejudice.

[Ree · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good Vol 4
Reviewed in Canada on March 23, 2019
While I still enjoyed this last book of the Progression series, I did find it a bit too wordy in places. I do recommend all four volumes. The last page with the coin toss left me not quite sure of the answer, however. I think I know, but maybe I’m dense.

[Lynette Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

a saga which deserves more attention

Ok. Admit I read the first & second books, waited a few weeks, skipped the third after reading description & then devoured fourth book during a genuine reading binge-caught my mental second wind, decided to read the third book & finished the fourth book…again. Holy smokes. As I read the books noticed feeling all the feelings - happy to sad, vexed to approving, disgusted to admiration, jealousy to sublime acceptance & all in between! This authors JAFF storytelling is very believable-JA I think, would approve how her characters narrated; perhaps not legit regency dialogue but totally insightful & character development truly shines in books 3/4. I alternately loved, despised, loathed, despaired of or adored FD esp during the final book & always always loved EB’s character in each book. There’s major new characters who at introduction appears to be of Wickham’s ilk-spoiler: while Wickham is written as canon & contributes to evil chaos, he’s NOT the true villain. When u finish the series….Like sheesh. The true villain will stun u & despite with malicious intent causing/directing the death(s) of main characters, found myself actually pitying this character. That’s some good writing! Will for sure read series again after I mentally recover-it’s truly as JAFF should be: a love story for the ages bout ODC but with so many other fascinating family relationships you can’t help but being fascinated & binging the series. (There are a few stodgy parts but hang in there bc those lay groundwork for wrapping up what a reader might think are loose plot lines). Def recommend!

[Kim Power · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Marathon Effort—Books 1-4

One might say that this novel has enough material for several book :-/ yet it is indisputably one novel, that has a sprawling reach and a huge cast of characters. We follow the younger Lizzy and Darcy and both their extended families over several years. Twists come when you least expect them to, and characters develop through tragedy and even trauma. A deep understanding of, and compassion for, human imperfection and frailty runs through the novel. No characters are idealised. The Marquess of T— is a masterful creation. Though the punctuation and editing could use a hoovering, ( I especially got confused at times by missing prepositions), one cannot take away from the author’s achievement in keeping her narrative threads untangled, in keeping the plot moving and creating a sense of time and place, and of a zeitgeist that was champing for change.

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

This continuation was a bit of a slog. I’m not sure why, except that I suspect we have too many words happening here... it took me 11 days to get through this - even though I’ve read every day. I just had a hard time staying interested and would often drift away into web surfing... (could be “pandemic brain” ADHD...)
I didn’t understand the point of Anne’s peculiar martyrdom over Malcolm. Others may say she was instrumental in his redemption and therefore that was worth it for her. I didn’t think he was particularly redeemed, either. (What did he/they DO to Lydia? Whatever it was, spirited, spoiled young women don’t need to be broken, but channeled). But, whatever.
Frankly I didn’t finish the book because the wrap up at the end was so spectacularly cheesy I just didn’t care. Could have simply said “and they all lived happily ever-after blah blah blah...”

[Dorisalicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hi,

I finished reading “ Progression”, and I loved it. It wasn’t the tradicional variation: Darcy was Darcy, but he changed, even the Col. Fitzwilliam.

I loved your development of Malcom. His action kept the reader in a vaivén (Spanish word “ they sway. When you think he was a good character, he went back to be a villain , and so forth. His actions kept me looking to finish the books. I loved the end!

You ask for plots: Why don’t you follow Malcom’s and Darcy ‘ s storyline? Darcy’ s marriage( not so predictable - you’re good at that). , and perhaps Ben in love with Malcom’sAmerican daughter?

Thank you for a delightful reading, and such great characters as Malcom and Darcy.

Doris González

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avid Reader

I have been waiting to read this book for some time only to discover that it had been available since 1917. I need to start following this author so that I can keep up with her work. Lord Hornthaugh was truly unique. He married Anne DeBourgh because she ⛵ the ocean just to secure him. He didn't love her, but he respected her. To help Darcy and Elizabeth, he taught Lydia a harsh lesson so that she would truly k know just how ignorant she truly was. Although Darcy was furious, he realized that his way wasn't working, especially after Elizabeth told him to stop. Everyone got their HEA.

[Sheri L. Cook · Rating 3 out of 5]

Progression series

This not your typical Pride and Prejudice variation/ sequel. The characters we have come to know show new behaviors; some of the characters in small ways. While others exhibit signs of a personality disorder. As the volumes progressed, a score card was almost required. Some characters that were only mentioned in passing were superfluous , i.e. the dukes second wife and daughters. The plot and it's sub plots are unique. Read it and come to your own conclusion.

[CEK · Rating 5 out of 5]

The devil is in the details

A detailed and adventurous re-examination of the problems resulting from inaccurate first impressions. With many non-canon characters in addition to our favorites, this final installment of four volumes continues the Pride and Prejudice stories beyond canon. An excellent anti-hero and plenty of romance, along with plot twists and social commentary, especially when one reads between the lines. One of the most moving and emotional parting scenes I have ever read. Thoroughly enjoyable.

[Lisa E · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, seems so real

This family history is so believable. The characters so real. I am still crying my eyes out. There was a little bit of silliness somewhere in the bit she pulled the story back on track because I had almost forgotten thinking so. These author does not bang you over the head with her points but writes a very readable story where you can figure things out on your own. I hope the quality continues.

[lori huff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Impressive!

So glad I took the chance on this series, mistakenly thinking any storyline after the conclusion of P&P couldn't possibly measure up to the original. The entire four book series is wonderfully well done, and completely satisfying. A mark of a good story is to be populated with characters that you care about. In this series, everyone, even the villains, have a quality that you can relate to and become invested in. Bravo, Ms. Covey. I only wish there was more.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Original!

I thoroughly enjoyed these sequels to P&P. Not is all as it appears. I feel like it was closer to real life than some retellings or sequels to P&P I've read thus far, and I've read A LOT of variations and vagaries of P&P. The characters do follow their original personalities, which I always enjoy. This book goes to show that life and love are not always black and white but many shades of gray.

[Valeria · Rating 2 out of 5]

Enjoyed Thornhaugh

What I liked: Lord Thornhaugh, Anne deBourgh and the banter between Darcy and Richard. Who I found extremely annoying: Darcy (frustratingly annoying), Elizabeth (at some much earlier point she needed to cut ties with Lydia), Mr and Mrs Bennet, Lydia (I was actually hoping she’d be turned out as payment for her abject stupidity), the Bingleys (Jane is so blah that her character is not worth including); the Duke of Bedford; and his son John.

[Walter W. Wolfe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnificent

I hav read scores of JAFF since 1995. These four books are magnificent. With wealth of new and fascinating characters. Lord thornbaugh is a new and riveting character that adds a lot. I sincerely believe these books should be considered for special mention. I hope we see more of the authors works in the future.

[Marla Mercier · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2

Left off half a star as there were questions of which I needed answers. Enjoyed the series. Went into the depth of our fav characters to see their inner turmoils and fears. The introduction of new characters was done well and I was never confused of which I can be easily. Would like for there to be more books in this series.

[Granny C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful series

Ms Covey's books in this series are marvelous. I enjoyed every minute and look forward to many re-reads. In particular the Darcy-Fitzwilliam friendship was heartwarming. Can't recommend it enough!

[Karen Bradsell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Among the very best of JAFF!

My favorite author. I hope she continues to write more stories. Her additional characters are outstanding. So we’ll researched with references to the Regency era.

[Christie Serrano · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good finish.

Wondering infer will see more from this series? I enjoyed it so much don't want it to end. Hope there will be a book five!

[Jacqueline Marshall · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Good Story

I enjoyed this story but..
It’s mostly about other relationship, not Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy.

In this story, a high ranking rich person runs away when accused of a serious crime. A person with a high title or lots of money did not need to flee the authorities in early 19th century England, especially when he was well connected and actually innocent.

Despite these flaws the book was well written, interesting and a nice continuation of Progression VOL. 1-3

[Craftyhj · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a good series of books - well written and exciting without stretching reality too far. The characters are well rounded and draw the reader into their world.