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Take Charge Series #2
Lady Catherine Takes Charge: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
The great lady is very much like she is in canon until there is a horrific accident in 1804 where both her husband Lewis and her daughter Anne die. For a lady who believed she could control all by force of will and desire, the deaths of her family rock her world down to the foundations. She revaluates all of her priorities, changes direction, and becomes a surrogate mother to both surviving Darcys.
In his will Sir Lewis leaves his estate and all of his holdings to Richard Fitzwilliam as he is the only one of his three nephews to have to shift for himself. Sir Lewis and Anne were the last alive in the de Bourgh line.
Jane Bennet, after losing more than one suitor to her mother’s vulgar and inappropriate behaviour has had the blinders removed. Elizabeth is no longer in awe of her father as she has had her eyes opened to his indolence and abrogation of his parental responsibility. Rather than laugh with him at his treatment of his wife and younger daughters, she understands the inappropriateness of how her father behaves.
The story is close to canon with regards to the interactions between the Netherfield and Longbourn residents with the dastardly George Wickham pouring poison on our Lizzy’s ear up to a point. We see a lot of that interaction through the eyes of William Collins who is very different from his portrayal in canon. Wickham is exposed, but not by Darcy.
Bingley is his spineless self and allows his sister Caroline to rule his life and manipulate him while at the same time he looks to Darcy to make decisions for him. The Netherfield Party escapes to Town and Bingley deserts Jane without a word except for Miss Bingley’s fiction she sends in her note and single reply to a Jane's three letters.
Up to a point, Lady Catherine has taken a back seat. Unlike the lady we are used to, she does not want to insert herself into her relative’s lives unless absolutely needed. When she sees too much happening which needs correcting, she decides to take charge. She leads her family in berating Darcy for his behaviour in Hertfordshire, his hauteur, and in not taking care of the scourge that is George Wickham.
This story looks at how this iteration of Lady Catherine changes the trajectory of a number of character we all love, and some we dislike intensely.
In his will Sir Lewis leaves his estate and all of his holdings to Richard Fitzwilliam as he is the only one of his three nephews to have to shift for himself. Sir Lewis and Anne were the last alive in the de Bourgh line.
Jane Bennet, after losing more than one suitor to her mother’s vulgar and inappropriate behaviour has had the blinders removed. Elizabeth is no longer in awe of her father as she has had her eyes opened to his indolence and abrogation of his parental responsibility. Rather than laugh with him at his treatment of his wife and younger daughters, she understands the inappropriateness of how her father behaves.
The story is close to canon with regards to the interactions between the Netherfield and Longbourn residents with the dastardly George Wickham pouring poison on our Lizzy’s ear up to a point. We see a lot of that interaction through the eyes of William Collins who is very different from his portrayal in canon. Wickham is exposed, but not by Darcy.
Bingley is his spineless self and allows his sister Caroline to rule his life and manipulate him while at the same time he looks to Darcy to make decisions for him. The Netherfield Party escapes to Town and Bingley deserts Jane without a word except for Miss Bingley’s fiction she sends in her note and single reply to a Jane's three letters.
Up to a point, Lady Catherine has taken a back seat. Unlike the lady we are used to, she does not want to insert herself into her relative’s lives unless absolutely needed. When she sees too much happening which needs correcting, she decides to take charge. She leads her family in berating Darcy for his behaviour in Hertfordshire, his hauteur, and in not taking care of the scourge that is George Wickham.
This story looks at how this iteration of Lady Catherine changes the trajectory of a number of character we all love, and some we dislike intensely.
- GenresRegency
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 28, 2021
72 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Shana Granderson
55 books66 followersI have three children and after a disastrous first marriage I found my soul mate who I thought that was lost to me over 25 years ago. I recently married the love of my life. I live with my soul mate in Australasia and have three pets, two cats, Darcy and Bingley and a golden lab, Honey.
Like many high school students, Pride and Prejudice was assigned to me in an English literature class. It was not my favourite book, but I read it as I had to. I forgot about the book until in my 30’s when I saw and fell in love with the 1995 Pride and Prejudice version made for TV in England, and purchased a copy of the DVD that is now much played.
The tipping point was the 2005 big screen adaption of P&P. Not long after seeing it I found and read the complete works of Jane Austen on Amazon, starting with Pride and Prejudice. The latter book is by far my favourite. After I read it three of four times over, I wistfully said to myself: ‘it is a great pity that Miss Austen never wrote a sequel to her seminal novel.' One day I was searching Kindle books and for the fun of it I entered “Pride and Prejudice Sequel’ into the search not expecting any results.
The rest is history. I discovered the JAFF community and books. I became a veracious reader of JAFF books and once I had devoured all of the sequels and continuations that I could find, I read my first variation. I had been resisting variations wrongly thinking that I would not enjoy them as much as the sequels. Boy, was I ever wrong! Today I am the proud owner of well over 1,000 JAFF novels that I have purchased on Amazon. 'A Change of Fortunes' is my first book that I wrote. There are a number of others on the way.
Like many high school students, Pride and Prejudice was assigned to me in an English literature class. It was not my favourite book, but I read it as I had to. I forgot about the book until in my 30’s when I saw and fell in love with the 1995 Pride and Prejudice version made for TV in England, and purchased a copy of the DVD that is now much played.
The tipping point was the 2005 big screen adaption of P&P. Not long after seeing it I found and read the complete works of Jane Austen on Amazon, starting with Pride and Prejudice. The latter book is by far my favourite. After I read it three of four times over, I wistfully said to myself: ‘it is a great pity that Miss Austen never wrote a sequel to her seminal novel.' One day I was searching Kindle books and for the fun of it I entered “Pride and Prejudice Sequel’ into the search not expecting any results.
The rest is history. I discovered the JAFF community and books. I became a veracious reader of JAFF books and once I had devoured all of the sequels and continuations that I could find, I read my first variation. I had been resisting variations wrongly thinking that I would not enjoy them as much as the sequels. Boy, was I ever wrong! Today I am the proud owner of well over 1,000 JAFF novels that I have purchased on Amazon. 'A Change of Fortunes' is my first book that I wrote. There are a number of others on the way.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 7, 2021
Lady Cat helps out
Pretty good story. There were a few times when Darcy is praised highly or Lizzy saying he was the best man in the world when his manners and kindness were no better than everyone else in the story. Too many characters were goody two shoes to make the story believable.
On the other hand it was nice to see some bad guys called out by others.
Pretty good story. There were a few times when Darcy is praised highly or Lizzy saying he was the best man in the world when his manners and kindness were no better than everyone else in the story. Too many characters were goody two shoes to make the story believable.
On the other hand it was nice to see some bad guys called out by others.
February 9, 2022
I gave the Kindle Unlimited version of this book 3 stars but if I had purchased it it would barely break 2.
The author does something I often long for in a P&P book - allows the plot to evolve off the page. Unfortunately that isn't necessarily done well with really awkward jumps in time and place merely indicated by a new person speaking.
This book feels juvenile; almost everyone gets forgiven, we have build build ups and then sudden and its over moments. The author add scenes that are silly simply to fulfill an Austen fan girl wish list, Caro gets her comeuppance; Wickham is held to account.
I also found this book to be overwritten and repetitive. There are dozens of examples and I didn't highlight most of them but it would be something like this "He introduced the ladies to his parents" I think we can all understand the meaning of that sentence without it being followed by everyone's names
Truly I love the Idea of the book Lady Catherine realizing that she's an interfering, know-it-all, busybody who everyone hates and mending her ways.
And there is an endless epilogue set far into the future which is unnecessary
The author does something I often long for in a P&P book - allows the plot to evolve off the page. Unfortunately that isn't necessarily done well with really awkward jumps in time and place merely indicated by a new person speaking.
This book feels juvenile; almost everyone gets forgiven, we have build build ups and then sudden and its over moments. The author add scenes that are silly simply to fulfill an Austen fan girl wish list, Caro gets her comeuppance; Wickham is held to account.
I also found this book to be overwritten and repetitive. There are dozens of examples and I didn't highlight most of them but it would be something like this "He introduced the ladies to his parents" I think we can all understand the meaning of that sentence without it being followed by everyone's names
Truly I love the Idea of the book Lady Catherine realizing that she's an interfering, know-it-all, busybody who everyone hates and mending her ways.
And there is an endless epilogue set far into the future which is unnecessary
January 18, 2022
“Take charge of your life! The tides do not command the ship. The Sailor does.” –Ogwo David Emenike
>>Rating: MA due to violence, trigger warnings for sensitive readers as gruesome descriptions of injury were discussed, adult discussions, mild cursing.
>>Angst Level: medium as the SBRB tried to do his worst. Someone needs to muzzle that dog.
>>Source: Borrowed from KU [11-29-21] with no expectations of a review. The views and opinions expressed are my own.
>>Trope: a bennet dies: douche Darcy: NSN [not-so-nice] Bennet parents, stubborn Elizabeth, weak Bingley [no spine and was afraid of his sister]. Caroline… yeah, herself. Different marriages for several characters… not D&E, they were together. Whew!
>>Religious Element: There was a slight religious element as our character appealed to a higher power when in the throes of their struggles. It was not preachy and was appropriate for this religious community of the times.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
“You just can’t let life happen to you; you have to make life happen.” –Idowu Koyenikan, Wealth for All: Living a Life of Success at the Edge of Your Ability
Book 2 in the Take Charge Series: This series can be read in any order as each book is standalone. In each story, someone takes charge of a situation and alters the course of the lives of our characters… hopefully for the better. This may include OOC [out-of-character] behavior for some of our canon characters. It felt rather strange at times as they acted and reacted differently than we normally read. There would be many surprises as some characters were much improved whereas some were not.
Kent: “[…] Take charge of your journey, it’s yours and yours alone!” –Kemi Songunle
In Kent, the worst had happened. It would be Lady Catherine who was the first to experience a change in character. She had a ‘Come-to-Jesus’ epiphany that changed her attitude and her MO [modus operandi] for the better. As she journeyed through this story, I had to like her. Her wisdom and influence were instrumental in bringing many people together. Whut? Lady Catherine? Seriously?
Meanwhile, in Hertfordshire, the Bennet parents were horrid… even more so than we usually see in JAFF. The younger girls were a nightmare and no one wanted to be around them. OMG! Jane and Elizabeth decided to take Mary under their wing and soon brought her under good regulation. Kitty finally saw the light and they began to wean her away from Lydia’s influence. Lydia was not too disturbed by the defection of her sister as that allowed more attention to be directed toward herself. Their mother never even noticed as she and her youngest were thick as thieves in both their actions and behavior. It is safe to say they were probably on the same emotional level.
Darcy: “The power to change is in my hands.” –Helen M. Ryan, 21 Days to Change Your Body
This was the trope where our-dear-boy [ODB] was the douche-Darcy. What a prig. He was horrid and everyone knew it. His family held an intervention due to his behavior and he went off to Pemberley to sulk like a spoiled child sent to the corner for his behavior. Sheeze, this guy was no prize. His opinions and haughty attitude needed a major overhaul. It would be some time before he saw the light… so to speak.
Wickham was his usual self, the SBRB [scum-bag-rat-bastard]. He was constantly looking for ways to cause trouble for and to get money from his nemesis, Fitzwilliam Darcy. His end was not a pretty one. He totally underestimated Lydia Bennet. Her father may consider her one of the silliest girls in England; however, she could be a Valkyrie when pushed to it. He would learn that bitter lesson in the not-to-distant future.
Elizabeth was the stubborn Lizzy that sets my nerves on edge and whose words constantly got her in trouble. No one could change her mind once she had formed her opinion, not even Jane. Darcy had insulted and snubbed her at the assembly and she hated him. In her eyes, Wickham was the victim and she would defend him to the end against that horrid man from Derbyshire. GRRR! I wanted to shake her.
Obviously not one of the above situations continued after about halfway through the book. Situations changed, hearts, and opinions improved. Soon, we had lovers getting married while others found their hearts desire. There were several different pairings that I enjoyed. There was an epilogue of the future with marriages and lots of children, their names, ages, and so forth. It was TMI [too-much-information] actually. I bogged down with all the information.
What I didn’t like: Additional edit was needed. It was way too long, too involved, and too repetitious. It could have been trimmed way down. We had the cream of the ton, peers and first circle, socializing with lower gentry, tradespeople, and they seemed to be fine with it. It was one big happy family. It was a bit strange and disconcerting but OK… that was the universe the author created. She wanted everyone to love each other and to get along. So, just go with it. Caroline Bingley would have pulled her hair out if she had witnessed this mixing of the social circles.
>>Rating: MA due to violence, trigger warnings for sensitive readers as gruesome descriptions of injury were discussed, adult discussions, mild cursing.
>>Angst Level: medium as the SBRB tried to do his worst. Someone needs to muzzle that dog.
>>Source: Borrowed from KU [11-29-21] with no expectations of a review. The views and opinions expressed are my own.
>>Trope: a bennet dies: douche Darcy: NSN [not-so-nice] Bennet parents, stubborn Elizabeth, weak Bingley [no spine and was afraid of his sister]. Caroline… yeah, herself. Different marriages for several characters… not D&E, they were together. Whew!
>>Religious Element: There was a slight religious element as our character appealed to a higher power when in the throes of their struggles. It was not preachy and was appropriate for this religious community of the times.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
“You just can’t let life happen to you; you have to make life happen.” –Idowu Koyenikan, Wealth for All: Living a Life of Success at the Edge of Your Ability
Book 2 in the Take Charge Series: This series can be read in any order as each book is standalone. In each story, someone takes charge of a situation and alters the course of the lives of our characters… hopefully for the better. This may include OOC [out-of-character] behavior for some of our canon characters. It felt rather strange at times as they acted and reacted differently than we normally read. There would be many surprises as some characters were much improved whereas some were not.
Kent: “[…] Take charge of your journey, it’s yours and yours alone!” –Kemi Songunle
In Kent, the worst had happened. It would be Lady Catherine who was the first to experience a change in character. She had a ‘Come-to-Jesus’ epiphany that changed her attitude and her MO [modus operandi] for the better. As she journeyed through this story, I had to like her. Her wisdom and influence were instrumental in bringing many people together. Whut? Lady Catherine? Seriously?
Meanwhile, in Hertfordshire, the Bennet parents were horrid… even more so than we usually see in JAFF. The younger girls were a nightmare and no one wanted to be around them. OMG! Jane and Elizabeth decided to take Mary under their wing and soon brought her under good regulation. Kitty finally saw the light and they began to wean her away from Lydia’s influence. Lydia was not too disturbed by the defection of her sister as that allowed more attention to be directed toward herself. Their mother never even noticed as she and her youngest were thick as thieves in both their actions and behavior. It is safe to say they were probably on the same emotional level.
Darcy: “The power to change is in my hands.” –Helen M. Ryan, 21 Days to Change Your Body
This was the trope where our-dear-boy [ODB] was the douche-Darcy. What a prig. He was horrid and everyone knew it. His family held an intervention due to his behavior and he went off to Pemberley to sulk like a spoiled child sent to the corner for his behavior. Sheeze, this guy was no prize. His opinions and haughty attitude needed a major overhaul. It would be some time before he saw the light… so to speak.
Wickham was his usual self, the SBRB [scum-bag-rat-bastard]. He was constantly looking for ways to cause trouble for and to get money from his nemesis, Fitzwilliam Darcy. His end was not a pretty one. He totally underestimated Lydia Bennet. Her father may consider her one of the silliest girls in England; however, she could be a Valkyrie when pushed to it. He would learn that bitter lesson in the not-to-distant future.
Elizabeth was the stubborn Lizzy that sets my nerves on edge and whose words constantly got her in trouble. No one could change her mind once she had formed her opinion, not even Jane. Darcy had insulted and snubbed her at the assembly and she hated him. In her eyes, Wickham was the victim and she would defend him to the end against that horrid man from Derbyshire. GRRR! I wanted to shake her.
Obviously not one of the above situations continued after about halfway through the book. Situations changed, hearts, and opinions improved. Soon, we had lovers getting married while others found their hearts desire. There were several different pairings that I enjoyed. There was an epilogue of the future with marriages and lots of children, their names, ages, and so forth. It was TMI [too-much-information] actually. I bogged down with all the information.
What I didn’t like: Additional edit was needed. It was way too long, too involved, and too repetitious. It could have been trimmed way down. We had the cream of the ton, peers and first circle, socializing with lower gentry, tradespeople, and they seemed to be fine with it. It was one big happy family. It was a bit strange and disconcerting but OK… that was the universe the author created. She wanted everyone to love each other and to get along. So, just go with it. Caroline Bingley would have pulled her hair out if she had witnessed this mixing of the social circles.
March 5, 2022
I love aunt Cat
I loved Lady Catherine in this story. This is low angst and all characters are changed in some way by Aunt Cat. I would recommend this to anyone.
I loved Lady Catherine in this story. This is low angst and all characters are changed in some way by Aunt Cat. I would recommend this to anyone.
May 27, 2022
Family oriented emotional funny
I enjoyed reading a more subdued Lady Catherine. This is more family oriented and I enjoyed this. Fanny Bennett was incredibly loving after her sickness, but before typical. I loved how Darcy's family gave him a set down! Very much readable to all and highly recommend to do so. Very good story line
I enjoyed reading a more subdued Lady Catherine. This is more family oriented and I enjoyed this. Fanny Bennett was incredibly loving after her sickness, but before typical. I loved how Darcy's family gave him a set down! Very much readable to all and highly recommend to do so. Very good story line
July 22, 2024
This author is more adept at writing villainy than romance and happy situations, IMO. So, the minute we run out of villains, the story just drags. I also feel the sequences and dialogues are somewhat becoming repetitive and hence not captivating. May be there should be a surprise villain who is eliminated in the climax to keep it interesting.
January 20, 2024
Lady Catherine Takes Charge (Take Charge Series)
Another terrific story written by Shana Granderson. In the beginning of this story, Lady Catherine was her usual termagant self needing to control everything around her. With the horrific death of her husband and daughter over the year of deep mourning, she has a cathartic awakening that changes her entire personality. Becoming a caring woman who withholds her opinions unless asked. Richard Fitzwilliam has become the owner of Rosigns as per Sir Lewis de Bourgh’s will and with her changing attitudes, Richard requests that she stay at Rosigns. Meanwhile, back in Meryton, life is as usual. Fanny Bennet is out of control of her tongue and wits and continues to embarrass her three older daughters chasing away any potential suitors that happen their way. William Collins has taken the position at Hunsford, but is not the sycophantic parson found in most variation that most love to hate. He falls in love with Mary, and she with him. Lady Cat becomes close to the four oldest Bennet daughters and manages to save Lydia from disaster. Seeing her nephew, William, become more like her old self and knowing how he acted in Meryton, Christmas that year becomes a bitter eye opener for him as his family takes him to task for his proud and disagreeable behaviors, attitudes, and slights in Meryton, but also his not listening to her about Mrs. Younge and almost losing his sister to Wickham’s perfidy at Ramsgate. Months spent in reflection at Pemberley gives him time to reevaluate his life and relationships towards others. One such self reflection is his relationship with Elizabeth Bennet. In helping to save Lydia from herself, Darcy renews his quest to gain Elizabeth’s good opinion. Have to note here - when
Lydia hears what Wickham really thinks of her and what he planned to do once they hit London, Lydia attacks him. In her violence, she leaves him bloody and broken. Thanks to Lady Cat, Wickham is thrown into the worst prison in England. The Bennets are invited to Rosigns to hear just how close to ruin the family had come. Before arriving the four unwed Bennet daughters have asked Aunt Cat to stay at Rosigns rather than return to Longbourn. Mrs. Bennet in her usual open mouth insert foot, immediately screams at Elizabeth when she hears she was with the group that stopped Lydia’s elopement. When she finally shuts her mouth and hears what the despicable wastrel had planned, she has an apoplexy. Jane realizes her love for Richard, and Elizabeth begins to see William in a different light. As their love grows, a double wedding is planned hoping that their mother stays alive to see it. The Bingley are invited to Rosigns as Lady Catherine plans to set Caroline Bingley in her place once a for all. Delusional Caroline thinks Darcy is there io propose since Bingley has never confronted his sister about Darcy’s real thoughts about his sister. Jane is relieved that he convinced Charles not to return to Netherfield, because he is not man enough to stand up to his sister; therefore, not the man she’d like to wed. Shortly after the two couples leave for their honeymoon trip, Mrs. Bennet passes, but neither couple is contacted per their mother’s wishes. Two years after Mrs. Bennet’s death, Thomas Bennet and Lady Catherine de Bourgh fall in love and are married. There life is filled with much joy spending time with their children and grandchildren.
Another terrific story written by Shana Granderson. In the beginning of this story, Lady Catherine was her usual termagant self needing to control everything around her. With the horrific death of her husband and daughter over the year of deep mourning, she has a cathartic awakening that changes her entire personality. Becoming a caring woman who withholds her opinions unless asked. Richard Fitzwilliam has become the owner of Rosigns as per Sir Lewis de Bourgh’s will and with her changing attitudes, Richard requests that she stay at Rosigns. Meanwhile, back in Meryton, life is as usual. Fanny Bennet is out of control of her tongue and wits and continues to embarrass her three older daughters chasing away any potential suitors that happen their way. William Collins has taken the position at Hunsford, but is not the sycophantic parson found in most variation that most love to hate. He falls in love with Mary, and she with him. Lady Cat becomes close to the four oldest Bennet daughters and manages to save Lydia from disaster. Seeing her nephew, William, become more like her old self and knowing how he acted in Meryton, Christmas that year becomes a bitter eye opener for him as his family takes him to task for his proud and disagreeable behaviors, attitudes, and slights in Meryton, but also his not listening to her about Mrs. Younge and almost losing his sister to Wickham’s perfidy at Ramsgate. Months spent in reflection at Pemberley gives him time to reevaluate his life and relationships towards others. One such self reflection is his relationship with Elizabeth Bennet. In helping to save Lydia from herself, Darcy renews his quest to gain Elizabeth’s good opinion. Have to note here - when
Lydia hears what Wickham really thinks of her and what he planned to do once they hit London, Lydia attacks him. In her violence, she leaves him bloody and broken. Thanks to Lady Cat, Wickham is thrown into the worst prison in England. The Bennets are invited to Rosigns to hear just how close to ruin the family had come. Before arriving the four unwed Bennet daughters have asked Aunt Cat to stay at Rosigns rather than return to Longbourn. Mrs. Bennet in her usual open mouth insert foot, immediately screams at Elizabeth when she hears she was with the group that stopped Lydia’s elopement. When she finally shuts her mouth and hears what the despicable wastrel had planned, she has an apoplexy. Jane realizes her love for Richard, and Elizabeth begins to see William in a different light. As their love grows, a double wedding is planned hoping that their mother stays alive to see it. The Bingley are invited to Rosigns as Lady Catherine plans to set Caroline Bingley in her place once a for all. Delusional Caroline thinks Darcy is there io propose since Bingley has never confronted his sister about Darcy’s real thoughts about his sister. Jane is relieved that he convinced Charles not to return to Netherfield, because he is not man enough to stand up to his sister; therefore, not the man she’d like to wed. Shortly after the two couples leave for their honeymoon trip, Mrs. Bennet passes, but neither couple is contacted per their mother’s wishes. Two years after Mrs. Bennet’s death, Thomas Bennet and Lady Catherine de Bourgh fall in love and are married. There life is filled with much joy spending time with their children and grandchildren.
December 13, 2021
This was a very long book. I fluctuated between 3 and 4 stars but settled on 4 because it kept me occupied. It seemed to me that this author took many things they didn’t like in P&P and created their own version.
As stated in the description, you won’t like Bingley or the Bennet parents. I always enjoy as much of Colonel Fitzwilliam as I can get and I love to see him happy. I also like to see Jane be kind but firm. I also liked who ended up married to Collins-made complete sense.
What I wasn’t crazy about: I have a difficult time believing that Lewis and Anne’s accident caused Lady Catherine’s personality to change so much; sadly, a leopard doesn’t usually change their spots. I didn’t like that Darcy and Lizzy really didn’t spend much time together. I am not sure how I feel about Collins’ complete change in character; part of what I enjoyed was his comedy relief in P&P. The serious Collins was no fun.
As stated in the description, you won’t like Bingley or the Bennet parents. I always enjoy as much of Colonel Fitzwilliam as I can get and I love to see him happy. I also like to see Jane be kind but firm. I also liked who ended up married to Collins-made complete sense.
What I wasn’t crazy about: I have a difficult time believing that Lewis and Anne’s accident caused Lady Catherine’s personality to change so much; sadly, a leopard doesn’t usually change their spots. I didn’t like that Darcy and Lizzy really didn’t spend much time together. I am not sure how I feel about Collins’ complete change in character; part of what I enjoyed was his comedy relief in P&P. The serious Collins was no fun.
January 18, 2022
Avid Reader
Sometimes people have to experience a tragedy before they undergo a significant emotional event, which changes them for the rest of their lives. Lady Catherine and Thomas Bennet experience different tragedies. Lady Catherine loses her husband and daughter in an accident. Six years later, she meets the Bennet family and has the opportunity to help them when Lydia is almost ruined by Wickham. Then Mrs. Bennet has a stroke after she heard that Wickham had planned to sell Lydia to a brothel so that he could go to America. Darcy is taken down several notches when he learns that Elizabeth can stand him. Lady Catherine does not tell people what to do. She simply asks them a series of questions to help them to think about what they are doing. Mrs. Bennet also comes to realize that she made many mistakes in raising her daughters and apologized apologized.
Sometimes people have to experience a tragedy before they undergo a significant emotional event, which changes them for the rest of their lives. Lady Catherine and Thomas Bennet experience different tragedies. Lady Catherine loses her husband and daughter in an accident. Six years later, she meets the Bennet family and has the opportunity to help them when Lydia is almost ruined by Wickham. Then Mrs. Bennet has a stroke after she heard that Wickham had planned to sell Lydia to a brothel so that he could go to America. Darcy is taken down several notches when he learns that Elizabeth can stand him. Lady Catherine does not tell people what to do. She simply asks them a series of questions to help them to think about what they are doing. Mrs. Bennet also comes to realize that she made many mistakes in raising her daughters and apologized apologized.
January 28, 2022
Meh
The beginning of the book drags setting up the past so we can get to the changed Catherine. Only it is not only Catherine who is different. William Collins is different. Colonel Fitzwilliam's arc is different. Then the story is fine but then drags at the end with too many personal details about honeymoons and a long begat at the end. Don't remember first book in the series being like that, only that I liked the twist. Poor Fanny Bennet just has no place in these stories. Also did not understand why in this book Wickham was given even more money and allowed to leave prison.
The beginning of the book drags setting up the past so we can get to the changed Catherine. Only it is not only Catherine who is different. William Collins is different. Colonel Fitzwilliam's arc is different. Then the story is fine but then drags at the end with too many personal details about honeymoons and a long begat at the end. Don't remember first book in the series being like that, only that I liked the twist. Poor Fanny Bennet just has no place in these stories. Also did not understand why in this book Wickham was given even more money and allowed to leave prison.
February 14, 2023
While Lady Catherine Takes Charge (LCTC) was a good story, it was less to my personal taste than the first book in the series. I will say, however, either there were less continuity errors in LCTC, or I missed them.
I greatly enjoyed Wickham’s fate; it might just be my favorite part of the book. Miss Bingley’s fate is rather good, too. However, there are many excellent scenes involving the Bennet family, as one would expect.
Once again, the pairings make sense and relationships proceed at reasonable paces. I also feel the attitude and behavior changes made by several characters were believable.
I greatly enjoyed Wickham’s fate; it might just be my favorite part of the book. Miss Bingley’s fate is rather good, too. However, there are many excellent scenes involving the Bennet family, as one would expect.
Once again, the pairings make sense and relationships proceed at reasonable paces. I also feel the attitude and behavior changes made by several characters were believable.
March 29, 2022
What a wonderful and delightful story of Lady Catherine and how she has changed to a lady that is pleasant, loves and helps everyone. It is really the first novel I have read that she is charming, helpful and does not look down upon others who are below her in status. I guess miracles never seize.
It is a pleasant novel to read and she really only plots against Caroline Bingley and it seems to work to get Caroline to see how she really behaves and makes Charles see where he was lacking in controlling his sister.
I thought it was strange in the end that she wound up marrying Mr. Bennet and that to me was a shocker!
It is a pleasant novel to read and she really only plots against Caroline Bingley and it seems to work to get Caroline to see how she really behaves and makes Charles see where he was lacking in controlling his sister.
I thought it was strange in the end that she wound up marrying Mr. Bennet and that to me was a shocker!
March 5, 2023
Lady Catherine Takes Charge
From reading all the Darcy and Elizabeth books I was so used to Lady de Bourgh’s dominance so this book was so totally different. At first I was not sure whether I liked it or not and at times it just seemed to be too much. The one thing that I liked was that the Bingleys finally got what they deserved, especially Caroline who needed to be put in place! Other than that at times it seemed to go on and on but at least the end was surprising and happy.
From reading all the Darcy and Elizabeth books I was so used to Lady de Bourgh’s dominance so this book was so totally different. At first I was not sure whether I liked it or not and at times it just seemed to be too much. The one thing that I liked was that the Bingleys finally got what they deserved, especially Caroline who needed to be put in place! Other than that at times it seemed to go on and on but at least the end was surprising and happy.
January 3, 2024
I loved it!
OMG, this variation was amazing! This needs to be made into a movie or tv series. I love the chances in certain characters story lines. This is an extreme heart felt story that will have you experiencing an array of emotions. I even shed tears during this variation. Very well written.
OMG, this variation was amazing! This needs to be made into a movie or tv series. I love the chances in certain characters story lines. This is an extreme heart felt story that will have you experiencing an array of emotions. I even shed tears during this variation. Very well written.
March 2, 2024
Loved it!
Great reinvention of P&P characters, especially Lady Cat. Many smiles and some tears as I devoured the book in less than 24 hours. There were a few editing errors that disrupted the flow when I had to stop to interpret a sentence.
Highly recommended! Looking forward to others in the series.
Great reinvention of P&P characters, especially Lady Cat. Many smiles and some tears as I devoured the book in less than 24 hours. There were a few editing errors that disrupted the flow when I had to stop to interpret a sentence.
Highly recommended! Looking forward to others in the series.
January 24, 2025
Lady C is transformed
This version is sweet. It takes a horrible tragedy to make the transformation for Lady C to change. This is believable to me — I encourage others to read this sweet and clean version.
There are many twist, change of character choices, and consequences for choices made. I truly appreciate this author’s perspective.
This version is sweet. It takes a horrible tragedy to make the transformation for Lady C to change. This is believable to me — I encourage others to read this sweet and clean version.
There are many twist, change of character choices, and consequences for choices made. I truly appreciate this author’s perspective.
November 30, 2021
Amazing!!
I read a lot of Pride and Prejudice Variations, so many that I only review the very best or the very worst. This is among the very best of the best! 5 Stars! Read it and enjoy it again and again.
I read a lot of Pride and Prejudice Variations, so many that I only review the very best or the very worst. This is among the very best of the best! 5 Stars! Read it and enjoy it again and again.
November 28, 2022
Very Good
The book is different, but I liked it. I like how the characters were reformed, I like to all the characters were able to change to become better people, and how each of the characters were able to find love.❣️🖤❤️
The book is different, but I liked it. I like how the characters were reformed, I like to all the characters were able to change to become better people, and how each of the characters were able to find love.❣️🖤❤️
November 28, 2021
Loved it
Absolutely lovely, unique and very enjoyable variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Shana Granderson.
Absolutely lovely, unique and very enjoyable variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Shana Granderson.
December 12, 2021
Entertaining and refreshing
A departure for Lady Catherine indeed but not unwelcome. A variation of not too much angst but a few twists and turns to be sure.
A departure for Lady Catherine indeed but not unwelcome. A variation of not too much angst but a few twists and turns to be sure.
November 6, 2022
Didn’t think I’d like this one
I really didn’t think I would like this book because I can’t stand Lady Catherine in P&P; but it grew on me I came to thoroughly enjoy it.
I really didn’t think I would like this book because I can’t stand Lady Catherine in P&P; but it grew on me I came to thoroughly enjoy it.
December 3, 2023
Loved every page, didn’t think I would because she makes such a glorious bad guy, but she cleans up nice too. Great read.
November 15, 2025
Another Wonderful Take Charge Tale
This is such a wonderful tale, Lady Catherine became an amazing person. Will look for the next in this series.
This is such a wonderful tale, Lady Catherine became an amazing person. Will look for the next in this series.
December 17, 2025
So good !
If you love p and p spin offs read this one !moves,quickly and great ending!enjoyable read! Hard for me to put down and its a clean romance!
If you love p and p spin offs read this one !moves,quickly and great ending!enjoyable read! Hard for me to put down and its a clean romance!
December 7, 2021
Brilliant
I could not put it down such a wonderful read. Lady Catherine looses her husband and daughter in an accident which causes her to look at herself and she changed her ways. She helps the Bennet sisters who come to visit Mary who has married a rather different Mr Collins(he has more sense).
I could not put it down such a wonderful read. Lady Catherine looses her husband and daughter in an accident which causes her to look at herself and she changed her ways. She helps the Bennet sisters who come to visit Mary who has married a rather different Mr Collins(he has more sense).
June 29, 2022
I loved this story
This is my favorite of the "takes charge" series of books. The only thing I wonder about is the authors treatment of Mrs. Bennett, in all the books, not just this one. It is surprising.
This is my favorite of the "takes charge" series of books. The only thing I wonder about is the authors treatment of Mrs. Bennett, in all the books, not just this one. It is surprising.
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