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Finding Anne de Bourgh
As heiress of Rosings Park, Anne de Bourgh’s health is of utmost importance to her mother, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Thus, following the shock of a recent fire at Rosings Park, the young woman is spirited away to Brighton to take the cure. While her domineering mother is bent on healing her daughter’s sickly constitution to secure her a suitable match, Anne herself is far more concerned with sketching the flora and fauna of the lovely sea town. It is in pursuit of artistic inspiration among the flowers that Anne becomes acquainted with Mr. Owen Talbot, a charming man with whom Anne feels an immediate connection, notwithstanding their differing stations.
But despite their growing esteem for one another, the couple faces an insurmountable problem: Lady Catherine has set her sights on a rich, well-connected man for her daughter, and Mr. Talbot is simply too common. With their love in jeopardy, the couple soon faces far graver problems. There has been a murder in Brighton, and Anne is innocently drawn into an amateur investigation that ultimately traces its roots to her own family. With a frightening foreshadowing regarding the de Bourghs, Anne begins to question whom she can truly trust.
But despite their growing esteem for one another, the couple faces an insurmountable problem: Lady Catherine has set her sights on a rich, well-connected man for her daughter, and Mr. Talbot is simply too common. With their love in jeopardy, the couple soon faces far graver problems. There has been a murder in Brighton, and Anne is innocently drawn into an amateur investigation that ultimately traces its roots to her own family. With a frightening foreshadowing regarding the de Bourghs, Anne begins to question whom she can truly trust.
263 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2019
14 people are currently reading
321 people want to read
About the author
Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen
20 books113 followersAward-winning author, Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen, lives between the beautiful Rocky Mountains and the Great Salt Lake. There, she regularly sees eagles, hawks, owls, and ducks. Lots of ducks. She has had dozens of fiction and nonfiction published in magazines, and she is the author of mystery romance novels. She loves reading, writing, and music, though not necessarily in that order, and she enjoys traveling throughout the world with her husband in search of fascinating stories. She also loves hearing from readers.
To learn more about Ronda and to get a FREE, visit her website at my link text.
To learn more about Ronda and to get a FREE, visit her website at my link text.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
May 28, 2019
Anne is a little bit of a mystery in Pride and Prejudice. She is in the shadows of an overbearing mother. Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen has penned a story that explores the possibility of Anne finding her voice and self in spite of her mother's efforts to keep her subservient.
Anne is a delightful character in this novel. I enjoyed her and her thoughts. She desires a life of love and happiness and is doing her best in ensuring her own future. As an heiress, it is tricky to know who desires your company for your personality or your money. Anne has this dilemma. There are people who will do anything to take advantage of her. Fortunately, Owen is not one of them. He is a "flawed" character who is absolutely perfect!
This is a happy companion book for fans of Jane Austen. It has mystery, romance, scandal, and a young woman finding her own way.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Anne is a delightful character in this novel. I enjoyed her and her thoughts. She desires a life of love and happiness and is doing her best in ensuring her own future. As an heiress, it is tricky to know who desires your company for your personality or your money. Anne has this dilemma. There are people who will do anything to take advantage of her. Fortunately, Owen is not one of them. He is a "flawed" character who is absolutely perfect!
This is a happy companion book for fans of Jane Austen. It has mystery, romance, scandal, and a young woman finding her own way.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
May 17, 2019
As a fan of Jane Austen and Pride and Prejudice, of course this book has been on my radar. I love how this author developed the character of Anne de Bourgh. She brought light and life to Anne showing how she might go from the character depicted in Pride and Prejudice to the young lady found in the last few chapters of this book.
Anne is the sickly daughter of an overbearing, opinionated mother. In P&P, she is sallow, unbecoming and of no consequence but in this book we see what a little thought and imagination can bring to Anne's story. I really loved the growth Anne made in this book. She ventures her own opinion once and gains some confidence. Every little instance of Anne expressing her own thoughts, opinions and desires felt like a small victory.
In the meantime, a dangerous, unsavory plot is swirling around Anne. It grows right along with Anne's confidence. There's nothing like a bit of intrigue to liven things up. This book is more gentle and placid in nature so I appreciated the growing plot to help keep me engaged. It was a good balance of plot and characters and I enjoyed it.
Content: mild peril and violence, death
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Anne is the sickly daughter of an overbearing, opinionated mother. In P&P, she is sallow, unbecoming and of no consequence but in this book we see what a little thought and imagination can bring to Anne's story. I really loved the growth Anne made in this book. She ventures her own opinion once and gains some confidence. Every little instance of Anne expressing her own thoughts, opinions and desires felt like a small victory.
In the meantime, a dangerous, unsavory plot is swirling around Anne. It grows right along with Anne's confidence. There's nothing like a bit of intrigue to liven things up. This book is more gentle and placid in nature so I appreciated the growing plot to help keep me engaged. It was a good balance of plot and characters and I enjoyed it.
Content: mild peril and violence, death
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 17, 2019
I started this book without knowing it was about THAT Anne de Bourgh (yanno, from Pride and Prejudice ;) ). What a happy surprise! As soon as I clued in--I still feel silly that I didn't clue in sooner, but I blame summer--I couldn't put it down. I loved the insight into Anne and also the development of her character. With romance, intrigue, and mystery this was a great regency romance. <3
May 16, 2019
Anne de Bourgh isn't a character that I've given much thought to at all. I mean, Elizabeth is Mr. Darcy's true match, so why give a second thought to Anne, his original intended? But Anne has a story to tell and in doing so, she truly finds herself.
I love how Anne and her mother are at odds--Anne dreams of drawing plants, while her mother is bent on finding her a suitor; Anne feels a connection with a Mr. Talbot, while her mother insists on her forming a match with his younger brother--the one with a title; Anne is content to meander through life, while her mother is intent on finding a cure for her health issues. Sometimes I wanted to tell her overbearing mother to leave her be and to back off already! Hah!
With all the romance blossoming, along with the beautiful gardens, there is a mystery in the wings and this fact gives the story an interesting, slightly dangerous, and deeper element. I really enjoyed Anne's character and loved the pathway she took to discover herself, but I especially loved her brushes with romance.
This is a great story for any Regency romance and/or Pride and Prejudice lover.
Content: mild romance; mild violence
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
I love how Anne and her mother are at odds--Anne dreams of drawing plants, while her mother is bent on finding her a suitor; Anne feels a connection with a Mr. Talbot, while her mother insists on her forming a match with his younger brother--the one with a title; Anne is content to meander through life, while her mother is intent on finding a cure for her health issues. Sometimes I wanted to tell her overbearing mother to leave her be and to back off already! Hah!
With all the romance blossoming, along with the beautiful gardens, there is a mystery in the wings and this fact gives the story an interesting, slightly dangerous, and deeper element. I really enjoyed Anne's character and loved the pathway she took to discover herself, but I especially loved her brushes with romance.
This is a great story for any Regency romance and/or Pride and Prejudice lover.
Content: mild romance; mild violence
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
May 18, 2019
I was intrigued by the premise of Finding Anne de Bourgh. Pride and Prejudice is one of my favorite books and, to be honest, I hadn't thought much about Anne de Bourgh, the woman that Lady Catherine expected would marry Darcy. This book tells her story and it is really well done!
I love that the author remains true to the way Jane Austen drew the character of Anne, yet adds her own characterization and growth arc. The language of the time period, the setting, and the attitudes about station and what is expected of a daughter in search of a husband is so well done. Anne is such a sympathetic character as she tries to find her way through her health issues and actually leading her own life and making her wishes known. With such an overpowering mother, that is a feat all on its own.
Our hero, Mr. Talbot also has his own issues that has caused him to be relegated to the fringes of society. But he sees something different in Anne and they are drawn together. I loved how he subtly championed her and her efforts to be her own woman. His kindness and humor and all he's overcome make him a hero any woman would want. And the way he treats Anne is swoon-worthy.
The secondary cast is memorable and the author has obviously done her research with all the details that are included. But that's not all! The real genius to this book is that it is not merely a regency love story. This is also a mystery that will pull you into the story and keep you turning pages so you can see who the real villain is, (and there are some scenes that will pull on your heartstrings for sure, villain or no!) and of course if our couple will be kept apart or find their way to each other.
I really enjoyed this book and I think regency fans will, too.
I love that the author remains true to the way Jane Austen drew the character of Anne, yet adds her own characterization and growth arc. The language of the time period, the setting, and the attitudes about station and what is expected of a daughter in search of a husband is so well done. Anne is such a sympathetic character as she tries to find her way through her health issues and actually leading her own life and making her wishes known. With such an overpowering mother, that is a feat all on its own.
Our hero, Mr. Talbot also has his own issues that has caused him to be relegated to the fringes of society. But he sees something different in Anne and they are drawn together. I loved how he subtly championed her and her efforts to be her own woman. His kindness and humor and all he's overcome make him a hero any woman would want. And the way he treats Anne is swoon-worthy.
The secondary cast is memorable and the author has obviously done her research with all the details that are included. But that's not all! The real genius to this book is that it is not merely a regency love story. This is also a mystery that will pull you into the story and keep you turning pages so you can see who the real villain is, (and there are some scenes that will pull on your heartstrings for sure, villain or no!) and of course if our couple will be kept apart or find their way to each other.
I really enjoyed this book and I think regency fans will, too.
May 23, 2019
Finding Anne de Bourgh was a cute story that's an imagined continuation of the classic Pride and Prejudice, featuring Mr. Darcy's intended before he married Elizabeth Bennett. Romance, mystery, and character growth were all woven throughout the plot to tell a sweet story.
I felt Anne's character journey was the strongest aspect of the novel. Anne begins as a sickly, quiet girl who allows her overbearing mother, Catherine de Bourgh, to dictate her life. Over the course of the novel, she grows and becomes a strong and capable woman determined to live life based on the wishes of her heart. Naturally, Anne's primary wishes revolve around her blossoming romance with the ineligible but very likable Mr. Owen Talbot. Their romance was cute, but it left me unsatisfied—the two fall in love at first sight and spend the remainder of the story tiptoeing around their feelings rather than confessing them or deepening their relationship. It was also almost too overshadowed by the mystery, which wasn't really a mystery as we had the frequent perspective of one of the accomplices, leaving very few surprises. The biggest twist was who was behind it all, but considering I guessed the solution before it was revealed as something I wished wouldn't be the solution (considering it featured my least favorite type of villain), that too was disappointing.
Despite it not being my favorite Regency read, overall I enjoyed Finding Anne de Bourgh. I loved the romantic moments and Anne's character growth, making it a lovely way to spend two evenings. Still, I find myself continuously disappointed when I read Regency novels that add elements of mystery and espionage. Perhaps in the future, I should just stick with straight romance.
I felt Anne's character journey was the strongest aspect of the novel. Anne begins as a sickly, quiet girl who allows her overbearing mother, Catherine de Bourgh, to dictate her life. Over the course of the novel, she grows and becomes a strong and capable woman determined to live life based on the wishes of her heart. Naturally, Anne's primary wishes revolve around her blossoming romance with the ineligible but very likable Mr. Owen Talbot. Their romance was cute, but it left me unsatisfied—the two fall in love at first sight and spend the remainder of the story tiptoeing around their feelings rather than confessing them or deepening their relationship. It was also almost too overshadowed by the mystery, which wasn't really a mystery as we had the frequent perspective of one of the accomplices, leaving very few surprises. The biggest twist was who was behind it all, but considering I guessed the solution before it was revealed as something I wished wouldn't be the solution (considering it featured my least favorite type of villain), that too was disappointing.
Despite it not being my favorite Regency read, overall I enjoyed Finding Anne de Bourgh. I loved the romantic moments and Anne's character growth, making it a lovely way to spend two evenings. Still, I find myself continuously disappointed when I read Regency novels that add elements of mystery and espionage. Perhaps in the future, I should just stick with straight romance.
September 2, 2019
4.5*
I really enjoyed this fictional novel that delved deeper into the life of Miss Anne de Bourgh. I loved the nods to her mother, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Mr. Collins (a very small nod to him) and a couple other characters we met in Pride and Prejudice.
There’s a mystery involved and it starts right off at the beginning of the book. So settle in while you read about the sickly Miss Anne, her mother’s dictates, a sweet love story as well as murder, mystery and mayhem!!!
I loved watching Anne come into herself and making her own choices! Well done!
Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril but nothing overly graphic.
I listened to the audiobook on my Deseret Bookshelf subscription.
Happy Reading!!!
I really enjoyed this fictional novel that delved deeper into the life of Miss Anne de Bourgh. I loved the nods to her mother, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Mr. Collins (a very small nod to him) and a couple other characters we met in Pride and Prejudice.
There’s a mystery involved and it starts right off at the beginning of the book. So settle in while you read about the sickly Miss Anne, her mother’s dictates, a sweet love story as well as murder, mystery and mayhem!!!
I loved watching Anne come into herself and making her own choices! Well done!
Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril but nothing overly graphic.
I listened to the audiobook on my Deseret Bookshelf subscription.
Happy Reading!!!
September 13, 2019
Anne de Bourgh gets her own book! There isn't a lot I can find fault with here; I really enjoyed this novel.
There are multiple interesting facets to the plot: Anne's health and self-improvement; her relationship with her overbearing mother; a young man she's interested in; a mystery she is trying to help solve; and another string of intrigue that she is caught up in. There was plenty here to keep me reading, and I felt that the author imagined Anne's character just right from the little bit we read about her in Pride and Prejudice.
I also loved the details given about sea-bathing; I had never realized what an inconvenient and scary thing it must have been! There are a few details that Austen wouldn't have included (a mention of tastebuds), and our heroine becomes rather more headstrong than would be Austen-appropriate by the end, but I was able to set those niggles aside and fully enjoy this book.
There are multiple interesting facets to the plot: Anne's health and self-improvement; her relationship with her overbearing mother; a young man she's interested in; a mystery she is trying to help solve; and another string of intrigue that she is caught up in. There was plenty here to keep me reading, and I felt that the author imagined Anne's character just right from the little bit we read about her in Pride and Prejudice.
I also loved the details given about sea-bathing; I had never realized what an inconvenient and scary thing it must have been! There are a few details that Austen wouldn't have included (a mention of tastebuds), and our heroine becomes rather more headstrong than would be Austen-appropriate by the end, but I was able to set those niggles aside and fully enjoy this book.
February 6, 2020
When I hear Pride and Prejudice ANYTHING, my interest is immediately piqued. Yes, I am one of those Austen loving people. Before starting this book, I was a little weary of the slightly lower rating, but it was recommended to me so I thought why not?
I was SO pleasantly surprised. I love when an author can take a character who we have little sympathy or thought for and make them the heroine of their own grand adventure. Anne has been discredited and bossed around by her mother for her entire life and has let her infirmities rule her decisions. When she meets a man who is also going through a physical and emotional battle of his own, her interest is piqued, AND there's a murder to be solved! How does a woman with little confidence and bravery tell the man she's interested in how she feels, and how does she step outside her mothers limits to gain her independence?
I enjoyed the mystery element to this story even though I did predict what was going on...it was of little consequence. I just thought this was a unique story that I hadn't heard before and I wanted to cheer these characters on, especially Anne as she finds her voice and gets her man. A nice little read if you want to hear a story that mentions Mr. Darcy. But seriously it does. An underrated story in my opinion.
I was SO pleasantly surprised. I love when an author can take a character who we have little sympathy or thought for and make them the heroine of their own grand adventure. Anne has been discredited and bossed around by her mother for her entire life and has let her infirmities rule her decisions. When she meets a man who is also going through a physical and emotional battle of his own, her interest is piqued, AND there's a murder to be solved! How does a woman with little confidence and bravery tell the man she's interested in how she feels, and how does she step outside her mothers limits to gain her independence?
I enjoyed the mystery element to this story even though I did predict what was going on...it was of little consequence. I just thought this was a unique story that I hadn't heard before and I wanted to cheer these characters on, especially Anne as she finds her voice and gets her man. A nice little read if you want to hear a story that mentions Mr. Darcy. But seriously it does. An underrated story in my opinion.
May 20, 2019
What a wonderful addition to the world of Regency Romance! Finding Anne de Bourgh is not only a great romantic novel but it's also a fantastic mystery suspense too. With my love for Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, I knew that this novel that expanded on Anne de Bourgh's life would hook my interest and it did. I loved this take on a well-known character and how Hinrichsen expanded her story. I also delighted in Owen Talbot and his strengths and trials that combined helped him become a better man. I enjoyed Anne's journey of learning to stand up to her very domineering mother and truly finding herself.
This novel is the best combination of keeping the reader guessing, rooting for favorite characters, and delighting in a fabulous ending.
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This novel is the best combination of keeping the reader guessing, rooting for favorite characters, and delighting in a fabulous ending.
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December 24, 2019
Anne's nose stops running when she visits Brighton where she also finds a backbone, love, and adventure. Pretty good yarn.
May 14, 2019
FINDING ANNE DE BOURGH is the perfect title for this book where a young lady must find herself, fight for her own future, and the man who is in search of her. PRIDE AND PREJUDICE fans will enjoy a story focused on Anne de Bourgh, the one originally intended for Mr. Darcy. Readers will enjoy these characters, their sweet romance, and the underlying suspense of the story.
Anyone who has read or watched a version of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE is familiar with Lady Catherine de Bough and her daughter, Anne. Lady Catherine upholds her usual opinionated and overbearing self in this story from the start. As a reader, she feels almost like an old friend, or maybe an old enemy would be a better description. Anne is also reserved, like she is in PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, but here we get to see the inner workings of her mind... her hopes, dreams and internal disagreements with her mother that she so rarely voices. I loved seeing how her character develops over the course of this story. It was fun to see who she is and how she tries to become independent of her mother. There are several other characters who come into Anne's life and influence who she begins to become, but I loved Owen the most. Of course, it helps that he's the leading man and Anne's love interest. He is an interesting character due to a twisted leg, less than ideal parentage, close family, and the strength and backbone he develops. They made a wonderful couple.
Another interesting aspect of this story is the suspense that begins more in the background and then steadily grows stronger towards the climatic end. I figured most of it out, but still very much enjoyed going along with the characters as they face danger.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I thoroughly enjoyed reading this! It was sweet, but also had some heartbreak, and then suspense that kept things interested. Definitely recommended!
Content: Some violence but clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review nor affect my review in any way.
Anyone who has read or watched a version of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE is familiar with Lady Catherine de Bough and her daughter, Anne. Lady Catherine upholds her usual opinionated and overbearing self in this story from the start. As a reader, she feels almost like an old friend, or maybe an old enemy would be a better description. Anne is also reserved, like she is in PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, but here we get to see the inner workings of her mind... her hopes, dreams and internal disagreements with her mother that she so rarely voices. I loved seeing how her character develops over the course of this story. It was fun to see who she is and how she tries to become independent of her mother. There are several other characters who come into Anne's life and influence who she begins to become, but I loved Owen the most. Of course, it helps that he's the leading man and Anne's love interest. He is an interesting character due to a twisted leg, less than ideal parentage, close family, and the strength and backbone he develops. They made a wonderful couple.
Another interesting aspect of this story is the suspense that begins more in the background and then steadily grows stronger towards the climatic end. I figured most of it out, but still very much enjoyed going along with the characters as they face danger.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I thoroughly enjoyed reading this! It was sweet, but also had some heartbreak, and then suspense that kept things interested. Definitely recommended!
Content: Some violence but clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review nor affect my review in any way.
September 21, 2022
Finding Anne de Bourgh
262 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
If you enjoy...
◇Mystery
◇Happy Endings
◇Action/Suspense
◇Sweet Romance
◇Historical Romance
◇Great 🎧 📖 Narrator
◇Pride & Prejudice Spin-off
Then I recommend looking into this one.
I really enjoyed the story, charcters, pacing & it's nice to see Anne De Bourgh have a happy ending.
⚠️Content ⚠️
~Death
~Mild Violence
~Kidnapping
Book Synopsis:
"As heiress of Rosings Park, Anne de Bourgh’s health is of utmost importance to her mother, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Thus, following the shock of a recent fire at Rosings Park, the young woman is spirited away to Brighton to take the cure. While her domineering mother is bent on healing her daughter’s sickly constitution to secure her a suitable match, Anne herself is far more concerned with sketching the flora and fauna of the lovely sea town. It is in pursuit of artistic inspiration among the flowers that Anne becomes acquainted with Mr. Owen Talbot, a charming man with whom Anne feels an immediate connection, notwithstanding their differing stations.
But despite their growing esteem for one another, the couple faces an insurmountable problem: Lady Catherine has set her sights on a rich, well-connected man for her daughter, and Mr. Talbot is simply too common. With their love in jeopardy, the couple soon faces far graver problems. There has been a murder in Brighton, and Anne is innocently drawn into an amateur investigation that ultimately traces its roots to her own family. With a frightening foreshadowing regarding the de Bourghs, Anne begins to question whom she can truly trust."
262 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
If you enjoy...
◇Mystery
◇Happy Endings
◇Action/Suspense
◇Sweet Romance
◇Historical Romance
◇Great 🎧 📖 Narrator
◇Pride & Prejudice Spin-off
Then I recommend looking into this one.
I really enjoyed the story, charcters, pacing & it's nice to see Anne De Bourgh have a happy ending.
⚠️Content ⚠️
~Death
~Mild Violence
~Kidnapping
Book Synopsis:
"As heiress of Rosings Park, Anne de Bourgh’s health is of utmost importance to her mother, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Thus, following the shock of a recent fire at Rosings Park, the young woman is spirited away to Brighton to take the cure. While her domineering mother is bent on healing her daughter’s sickly constitution to secure her a suitable match, Anne herself is far more concerned with sketching the flora and fauna of the lovely sea town. It is in pursuit of artistic inspiration among the flowers that Anne becomes acquainted with Mr. Owen Talbot, a charming man with whom Anne feels an immediate connection, notwithstanding their differing stations.
But despite their growing esteem for one another, the couple faces an insurmountable problem: Lady Catherine has set her sights on a rich, well-connected man for her daughter, and Mr. Talbot is simply too common. With their love in jeopardy, the couple soon faces far graver problems. There has been a murder in Brighton, and Anne is innocently drawn into an amateur investigation that ultimately traces its roots to her own family. With a frightening foreshadowing regarding the de Bourghs, Anne begins to question whom she can truly trust."
May 13, 2019
It’s a little crazy to me that as many times as I have read Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, I’ve never thought that much about Anne de Bourgh. She’s always just been a secondary character to me. This book got me thinking more about her. And I liked that!
The author did a great job with this one. It doesn’t feel like a continuation of Pride and Prejudice, and it’s not intended to. This book stands on it’s own so well. I loved all of the characters, previously known and unknown. It’s just great!
I love that the reader gets to see the plot of this one through so many different points of view. The reader sees things through Anne’s eyes as well as Owen’s and Kenneth’s.
Anne is a great character. I loved the way I was able to see her differently in this story than I’ve ever seen her before. She was a young woman with thoughts and feelings. And I liked Lady Catherine de Bourgh in this book at least a little better than I ever have before as well.
I liked Owen too. He is a fine young man, even though Lady Catherine wants to keep Anne as far away from him as she can. His mother is probably one of my favorite characters in this one. So great!
Most of this one is set in Brighton. I loved reading about the dippers again. And the way that the people would have taken the sea water. Historical details like that interest me so much!
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. I loved the way it made me see things differently and think differently about a character I’ve “known” for a really long time.
The author did a great job with this one. It doesn’t feel like a continuation of Pride and Prejudice, and it’s not intended to. This book stands on it’s own so well. I loved all of the characters, previously known and unknown. It’s just great!
I love that the reader gets to see the plot of this one through so many different points of view. The reader sees things through Anne’s eyes as well as Owen’s and Kenneth’s.
Anne is a great character. I loved the way I was able to see her differently in this story than I’ve ever seen her before. She was a young woman with thoughts and feelings. And I liked Lady Catherine de Bourgh in this book at least a little better than I ever have before as well.
I liked Owen too. He is a fine young man, even though Lady Catherine wants to keep Anne as far away from him as she can. His mother is probably one of my favorite characters in this one. So great!
Most of this one is set in Brighton. I loved reading about the dippers again. And the way that the people would have taken the sea water. Historical details like that interest me so much!
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. I loved the way it made me see things differently and think differently about a character I’ve “known” for a really long time.
May 16, 2019
From cover to cover, this story is every regency romance reader’s dream and delight. The novel is based on characters from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice bringing a new twist and a new light to Anne de Bourgh’s story. Not only is this story a sweet romance, but it has mystery and intrigue too. This story is filled with anticipating twists and turns that will keep readers guessing and bringing them back for more. Readers will absolutely not want to put down this charming mystery filled regency romance novel.
Genre: historical, regency, romance, mystery
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: May 1, 2019
Number of pages: 263
A review copy of this book was provided by Covenant Communications. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Genre: historical, regency, romance, mystery
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: May 1, 2019
Number of pages: 263
A review copy of this book was provided by Covenant Communications. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
July 18, 2019
Have you ever read "Pride and Prejudice" and wondered what might have happened to Anne de Bourgh? I LOVE this book that asks just that and does a beautiful job showing Anne's character and growth throughout the book along with some drama and suspense and the beauty of the Regency era.
The White Cliffs on the cover don't make sense because they weren't ever in Dover, but the cover IS very beautiful regardless.
The White Cliffs on the cover don't make sense because they weren't ever in Dover, but the cover IS very beautiful regardless.
August 25, 2019
OK story but went on forever
April 20, 2021
This felt like a young adult book. The plot was weak, and there was a lot going on. It was hard to be invested in the story.
September 7, 2019
I am a stickler for ignoring any “Pride & Prejudice” story that tampers with the pure original by Jane Austin, but I have read a few stories where other authors have written a character spin-off. In my opinion, it’s a different character so a different author may take them forward as long as it stays true to the time period. “Finding Anne de Bourgh” fits this category according to my definition, and therefore worthy of my money.
What Regency/P&P story lover would not want pathetic Anne to become human and find a happy life away from her domineering witch of a mother. Author Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen has written such a story for Anne. Some of it I liked, some was clever, some of it I thought was too weird, and some just ho-hum.
I liked that Anne was trying to break free from her extremely introverted self. There are moments she gets brave and her hidden personality comes forth. She certainly did with Mr. Talbot. Good start Anne. Weirdness, that came with the instant obsession with the death investigation. That just didn’t seem likely given her personality. Anne’s talent for drawing though, was a wonderful addition, especially presented with the “work” opportunity.
I had a real problem with the scene at the party where Lady de Bourgh bursts forth with the announcement of Anne’s engagement, when the guy hadn’t even asked her! Anne’s mother says on pg.222, “’Congratulations, my dear. I must say your self-will has grown as much as I ever hoped it would and I could not be more pleased. You must agree his proposal was the perfect icing to tonight’s event.’” Totally shocked Anne then replies, “’Thank you, Mother.’” Seriously? She has NOTHING else to say?
Yes, that behavior was just as snarky as Lady Catherine could be. And I credit RGH keeping Lady Catherine with just enough vocal poison to maintain her irritating personality - even to her own child. Another positive was the plot twist; didn’t see it coming!
I didn’t love this story, but I think author Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen is worth watching to see what else she writes for my favorite Regency time period.
What Regency/P&P story lover would not want pathetic Anne to become human and find a happy life away from her domineering witch of a mother. Author Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen has written such a story for Anne. Some of it I liked, some was clever, some of it I thought was too weird, and some just ho-hum.
I liked that Anne was trying to break free from her extremely introverted self. There are moments she gets brave and her hidden personality comes forth. She certainly did with Mr. Talbot. Good start Anne. Weirdness, that came with the instant obsession with the death investigation. That just didn’t seem likely given her personality. Anne’s talent for drawing though, was a wonderful addition, especially presented with the “work” opportunity.
I had a real problem with the scene at the party where Lady de Bourgh bursts forth with the announcement of Anne’s engagement, when the guy hadn’t even asked her! Anne’s mother says on pg.222, “’Congratulations, my dear. I must say your self-will has grown as much as I ever hoped it would and I could not be more pleased. You must agree his proposal was the perfect icing to tonight’s event.’” Totally shocked Anne then replies, “’Thank you, Mother.’” Seriously? She has NOTHING else to say?
Yes, that behavior was just as snarky as Lady Catherine could be. And I credit RGH keeping Lady Catherine with just enough vocal poison to maintain her irritating personality - even to her own child. Another positive was the plot twist; didn’t see it coming!
I didn’t love this story, but I think author Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen is worth watching to see what else she writes for my favorite Regency time period.
May 17, 2019
Finding Anne de Bourgh was an unexpected delight. I avoid reading book descriptions right before starting a book (I don't want too much given away), so I really didn't know what to expect besides a Regency romance. I was pleasantly surprised to get a mystery, and thought it was well done.
The author noted that she is a Jane Austen fan and her intrigue with Anne de Bourgh in Pride and Prejudice influenced her to write this novel. I'll admit that I hadn't given a second thought to Anne before this book. Her domineering mother always took the stage (next to the main characters) in Pride and Prejudice, but I enjoyed getting to know Anne in this novel. She definitely didn't fit the mold and much of the book involved her standing up for herself and coming out of her shell. I love the chance the author gave for Anne to shine, and find that it is a good lesson-we all have worth and value.
The Talbot family was very interesting, both with Lady Talbot's past and her hobby of solving murders. That was quite unexpected, especially for someone of her station. The closeness between her and her boys was endearing, and their quick acceptance of Anne showed the good people that they are.
If you've read Regency novels you're probably familiar with people flocking to sea side communities for "the cure" of sea bathing. The idea of having dippers (strong women who "dip" patrons in the sea) is quite foreign, but this is at least the second book I've read that had a focus on dipping, and it is very interesting.
This wasn't a fast read for me, but it was enjoyable. I was very surprised when the the main bad guy was revealed, and enjoyed that it caught me off guard. I would read more from this author.
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
The author noted that she is a Jane Austen fan and her intrigue with Anne de Bourgh in Pride and Prejudice influenced her to write this novel. I'll admit that I hadn't given a second thought to Anne before this book. Her domineering mother always took the stage (next to the main characters) in Pride and Prejudice, but I enjoyed getting to know Anne in this novel. She definitely didn't fit the mold and much of the book involved her standing up for herself and coming out of her shell. I love the chance the author gave for Anne to shine, and find that it is a good lesson-we all have worth and value.
The Talbot family was very interesting, both with Lady Talbot's past and her hobby of solving murders. That was quite unexpected, especially for someone of her station. The closeness between her and her boys was endearing, and their quick acceptance of Anne showed the good people that they are.
If you've read Regency novels you're probably familiar with people flocking to sea side communities for "the cure" of sea bathing. The idea of having dippers (strong women who "dip" patrons in the sea) is quite foreign, but this is at least the second book I've read that had a focus on dipping, and it is very interesting.
This wasn't a fast read for me, but it was enjoyable. I was very surprised when the the main bad guy was revealed, and enjoyed that it caught me off guard. I would read more from this author.
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 5, 2020
As a stand alone regency novel a solid 4. But as a furthering of pride and prejudice...maybe a 2. In the book Anne is SICK. Like super sickly always. And she has zero ability to think for herself.
In this book, she has allergies. And is super spunky. I really liked her. But it’s best read if you pretend it’s an alternate reality from Jane Austen, not a sequel.
In this book, she has allergies. And is super spunky. I really liked her. But it’s best read if you pretend it’s an alternate reality from Jane Austen, not a sequel.
August 3, 2019
So this was one that I did thoroughly enjoy the concept of. Anne was never a character I gave much thought to in Pride and Prejudice. To me she was just another obstacle to Darcy and Elizabeth and nothing more. Hinrichsen follows the Austen formula while creating her own characters.
With Anne being so sickly, her mother has determined to bring her to Brighton in order to restore some health before going to London in the hopes of scraping together a match for her. As Anne gains not just physical strength but also inner strength to begin to defy her mother and live life at least somewhat on her terms. Over time she begins to make more decisions to her daily routine and even gasp what unsuitable gentleman she keeps company with.
I liked seeing her gain her voice. My favorite quote from the book is "Be assertive. Follow your heart. Be the woman you want to be." That is some good empowerment right there. She didn't turn into a domineering shrew, she simply became who she was meant to be. A daughter of the great Lady Catherine de Bourgh was NOT meant to be a doormat - not even for her mother. I am so very glad she came to herself and found some backbone.
For my complaints view: https://bit.ly/2MAcZsf
With Anne being so sickly, her mother has determined to bring her to Brighton in order to restore some health before going to London in the hopes of scraping together a match for her. As Anne gains not just physical strength but also inner strength to begin to defy her mother and live life at least somewhat on her terms. Over time she begins to make more decisions to her daily routine and even gasp what unsuitable gentleman she keeps company with.
I liked seeing her gain her voice. My favorite quote from the book is "Be assertive. Follow your heart. Be the woman you want to be." That is some good empowerment right there. She didn't turn into a domineering shrew, she simply became who she was meant to be. A daughter of the great Lady Catherine de Bourgh was NOT meant to be a doormat - not even for her mother. I am so very glad she came to herself and found some backbone.
For my complaints view: https://bit.ly/2MAcZsf
August 1, 2021
I love Jane Austen and like most people I adore Pride and Prejudice. I love reading different versions of it so I thought I would give this book a chance since it was in the same world.
This book is set in P&P world and time but the author’s writing style isn’t like Jane Austen’s and I think that was my problem with this. Because it is about Anne de Bourgh I was expecting more of P&P style. But this was written as a regency romance with today’s standards which isn’t bad but not what I was expecting. If this book had been based on Anne and Lady Catherine but not in the world of P&P, I probably would have liked it better. It’s not a bad story, you’ve got a heroine trying to stick up for herself, a domineering mother, obstacles in love and a bit of a mystery. I just wish it hadn’t been set in the same world as Pride and Prejudice. That being said, that is just my opinion. Others might love this!
It is clean, there is romance and a bit of intrigue. I honestly got a bit frustrated with the love interest every now and then because of some of the miscommunication but others might be okay with it.
This book is set in P&P world and time but the author’s writing style isn’t like Jane Austen’s and I think that was my problem with this. Because it is about Anne de Bourgh I was expecting more of P&P style. But this was written as a regency romance with today’s standards which isn’t bad but not what I was expecting. If this book had been based on Anne and Lady Catherine but not in the world of P&P, I probably would have liked it better. It’s not a bad story, you’ve got a heroine trying to stick up for herself, a domineering mother, obstacles in love and a bit of a mystery. I just wish it hadn’t been set in the same world as Pride and Prejudice. That being said, that is just my opinion. Others might love this!
It is clean, there is romance and a bit of intrigue. I honestly got a bit frustrated with the love interest every now and then because of some of the miscommunication but others might be okay with it.
April 1, 2019
I loved seeing Anne de Bourgh have her own story and a voice and watching her come into her own! It was great to experience more of her story than the small bit we get about her in Pride and Prejudice.
It was refreshing to step again into the world and time period of Jane Austen. I was pleasantly surprised at the additional moments of mystery-solving and adventure that Anne was involved with. I was quite intrigued to see how she would get through all the obstacles that were in front of her! It was not easy being a female during that time - especially with such a domineering mother and not knowing who liked you and who liked only your fortune!
Romance, history, action, mystery! Thanks to Ronda Hinrichsen for delivering all those elements in this book!
It was refreshing to step again into the world and time period of Jane Austen. I was pleasantly surprised at the additional moments of mystery-solving and adventure that Anne was involved with. I was quite intrigued to see how she would get through all the obstacles that were in front of her! It was not easy being a female during that time - especially with such a domineering mother and not knowing who liked you and who liked only your fortune!
Romance, history, action, mystery! Thanks to Ronda Hinrichsen for delivering all those elements in this book!
June 14, 2019
I really enjoyed getting to know Anne and seeing her stretch and grow into a more capable and confident woman. I also enjoyed Owen and his initial thoughts and feelings when he and Anne first met. If the chemistry of their first meeting continued throughout the book it would have been wonderful. I felt that most of their relationship happened in their own thoughts and not really in their few brief connections beyond that. The murder mystery solving being a diversion for a lady seemed a bit odd for that time period. Perhaps it was a thing, I'm not sure. I felt that the underlying scheme was a bit weak and had it figured out early on. Ultimately I was more interested in Anne standing up to her mother and pursuing her personal interests than I was in the rest.
August 30, 2019
Calling all my fellow P&P fans! Have you ever wanted to know more about Anne de Bourgh?
Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen has done a beautiful job of giving Anne a voice in her book Finding Anne de Bourgh.
Lady Catherine de Bourgh takes Anne to Brighton to benefit from the cure and to find a well-suited match equal to her station. Lady Catherine and Anne have different ideas on who that match should be. Can Anne learn to stand up to her mother?
Annes’s character really develops and grows from the timid sickly creature we all know in P&P to a more confident lady/heiress who can make her own choices.
Murder, mystery, adventure, misunderstandings, romance, and a challenging mother. This book has a little of everything that Regency fans love.
Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen has done a beautiful job of giving Anne a voice in her book Finding Anne de Bourgh.
Lady Catherine de Bourgh takes Anne to Brighton to benefit from the cure and to find a well-suited match equal to her station. Lady Catherine and Anne have different ideas on who that match should be. Can Anne learn to stand up to her mother?
Annes’s character really develops and grows from the timid sickly creature we all know in P&P to a more confident lady/heiress who can make her own choices.
Murder, mystery, adventure, misunderstandings, romance, and a challenging mother. This book has a little of everything that Regency fans love.
September 26, 2019
I enjoyed reading this, but am not sure entirely what to make of it. I love the character portrayal of Anne de Bourgh & the development & growth she goes through during the length of this book. Lady Catherine starts out very true to her nature, as portrayed in Pride & Prejudice - going as far as direct quotes (things she said in P&P, but used toward a person or situation in this book). I'm not sure how I feel about her character developement - mixed feelings. It's obvious the author did extensive research into the customs of the time period, but the language seems very contemporary overall (which is not a complaint/criticism on my part, but does somewhat affect the general feeling of authenticity).
May 13, 2019
This book left me feeling a bit unsettled. I'm used to the author writing mystery/suspense novels, yet this one has a strong romantic element to it that overshadowed the mystery side of it. I enjoyed the characters and the mystery, although I was able to figure out what was going on halfway through the story. I wasn't sure how Anne and Owen were going to get together. It ended well and by the end of the story I felt a little more settled in the story. I haven't figured out if I wanted more mystery to be there or if the romantic element was too strong for my expectations of the story. I'm not sure. I would recommend it to anyone who does love a good romance with mystery elements in it.
July 11, 2019
So Anne de Bourgh is one of those characters I occasionally ponder and wonder what her story would be. So intrigued to see a book designed to tell me just that, I picked up this book. In the notes, the author admits she is not trying to imitate Jane Austen. Even knowing this, I still struggled with the style of the story. This felt like a modern-ish cozy murder mystery that happened to involve a couple Austen characters.
Anne was my favorite character and the reader is given a fair glimpse of her thoughts and growth. Owen, the love interest, however felt flat to me. His background was interesting, but I would have liked more about how his past influenced the choices he makes in the story. Also, Lady Catherine has an abrupt personality change in the final pages that was too sudden and unexplored, which is a shame -- it could have been interesting to really chip away her armor.
The writing is good, but I think the story needed something else, the pacing/plot could have been a little tighter, maybe a little more on character development. The mystery is slightly predictable. I think this is worth the read if you're looking for a nice distraction and you'd like a clean, quick mystery-romance. No prior knowledge of Jane Austen required.
Anne was my favorite character and the reader is given a fair glimpse of her thoughts and growth. Owen, the love interest, however felt flat to me. His background was interesting, but I would have liked more about how his past influenced the choices he makes in the story. Also, Lady Catherine has an abrupt personality change in the final pages that was too sudden and unexplored, which is a shame -- it could have been interesting to really chip away her armor.
The writing is good, but I think the story needed something else, the pacing/plot could have been a little tighter, maybe a little more on character development. The mystery is slightly predictable. I think this is worth the read if you're looking for a nice distraction and you'd like a clean, quick mystery-romance. No prior knowledge of Jane Austen required.
November 12, 2019
3.5 stars rounded up. I had to take a break in the middle in order to get my thoughts in order. As a regency, I loved it. But I had to take some time to separate this Anne de Bourgh from Jane Austen’s Anne de Bourgh. I loved the idea of developing Anne’s character, of her artistic skills, of her longing for a gentle and kind gentleman. I couldn’t make myself see JA’s Anne getting excited about crime investigation. I actually think it’s a cool element of the plot, but I couldn’t make it jive with JA’s Anne. Once I made her this author’s Anne in my mind, I really enjoyed the intrigue and the action packed ending.
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