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The Bennet Inheritance
Years after conspiring men denied his father the inheritance that was his by birthright, Mr. Henry Bennet returns to Longbourn with his three daughters, having received the estate on the death of its previous master. Mr. Bennet has no notion why the man who stole it from his father willed the property to his control, but he is grateful to return to the lands of his forebears.
As the Bennets settle into their lives as gentlefolk once again, their new friends welcome them to the neighborhood, and they begin the struggle to turn Longbourn again into a prosperous estate. In this, Mr. Bennet finds assistance from his friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy, a scion of the family who proved his father’s salvation. Mr. Darcy, eager to help his dear friend learn how to become master of the estate, takes an immediate liking to the man’s second daughter, Elizabeth, who works her way into his heart with little effort.
Unexpected to them all, their new position opens vistas wide to them, for the prospect of love and devotion, a future filled with promise, is open to them, from the eldest to the youngest. Of even greater importance, the Bennets will learn something of themselves and discover something of the betrayals that led to their family’s hiatus from the estate.
As the Bennets settle into their lives as gentlefolk once again, their new friends welcome them to the neighborhood, and they begin the struggle to turn Longbourn again into a prosperous estate. In this, Mr. Bennet finds assistance from his friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy, a scion of the family who proved his father’s salvation. Mr. Darcy, eager to help his dear friend learn how to become master of the estate, takes an immediate liking to the man’s second daughter, Elizabeth, who works her way into his heart with little effort.
Unexpected to them all, their new position opens vistas wide to them, for the prospect of love and devotion, a future filled with promise, is open to them, from the eldest to the youngest. Of even greater importance, the Bennets will learn something of themselves and discover something of the betrayals that led to their family’s hiatus from the estate.
509 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 16, 2024
159 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Jann Rowland
79 books190 followersJann Rowland is a Canadian, born and bred. Other than a two-year span in which he lived in Japan, he has been a resident of the Great White North his entire life, though he professes to still hate the winters.
Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OneGoodSonnetPub...
Twitter: @OneGoodSonnet
Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bol2p9
Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OneGoodSonnetPub...
Twitter: @OneGoodSonnet
Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bol2p9
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
August 31, 2025
An interesting retelling
The Bennets arrive a Longbourn after Jane, Elizabeth and Mary are grown.
Here is a nasty bit of history which caused the separation but is consequently fixed.
To Longbourn also arrives Darcy to assist, Bingley to lease Netherfield and Georgiana to heal amongst lively and warm young women her own age.
This is a farely tame story, with loads of nice, good people. A couple of rats, but not high drama.
An enjoyable read.
The Bennets arrive a Longbourn after Jane, Elizabeth and Mary are grown.
Here is a nasty bit of history which caused the separation but is consequently fixed.
To Longbourn also arrives Darcy to assist, Bingley to lease Netherfield and Georgiana to heal amongst lively and warm young women her own age.
This is a farely tame story, with loads of nice, good people. A couple of rats, but not high drama.
An enjoyable read.
October 24, 2024
“But you did everything you could, and when you could do no more, you made peace with your fate, and you didn’t rail needlessly against it. That is wisdom, not weakness.” –Christopher Paolini, Inheritance
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mature due to the villains
>>Angst Level: medium due to the behavior of scoundrels, a kidnapping attempt, and language describing the deplorable actions of villains.
>>Source: This was borrowed from KU and I volunteered to leave a review of my thoughts and opinions. This was a long story with 37 chapters. The last chapter included future events and acted as an epilogue and included the future marriages and children of the characters.
>>Trope: [1] Inheritance grab or theft. [2] Bennet was a parson with only the three eldest daughters. [3] a very different Caroline.
>>Religious Element: Like his father, Bennet was a parson and his three daughters helped him with parish duties. There were references to a higher power and scriptures that were consistent with a man of God. Just because Bennet had become landed gentry did not mean he had stepped away from his upbringing, religious teachings, nor his principles. It is not presented in a preachy manner, but was consistent with who he was and with the time period.
“All we can do is strive to accept our fate with grace, whatever it might be.” –Christopher Paolini, Inheritance
Henry Bennet and his three daughters returned to Longbourn after the death of Mr. Collins, its previous owner. Bennet’s grandfather had been denied his birthright but the heir of the man who stole Longbourn, willed it back into Bennet control. This was an interesting twist to the P&P storyline. A Collins cousin had cheated a Bennet out of Longbourn and thus the subsequent Bennet sons had to find their way in society. As his father before him, Henry Bennet had become a parson and lived a good life until the day the solicitor told him he had been named in the will of Mr. Collins who owned Longbourn. Bennet’s life and that of his daughters would change forever.
“But bad people live in good places.” –Nora Roberts, Inheritance
Rowland is known for shaking up Austen’s P&P storyline. Several characters were unrecognizable while others were more than their canon account. It was so much fun watching a character to see if the changes in their personality were real or if their spots would eventually show through. It was so nice not having to deal with Fanny Bennet and the two younger sisters. I get so tired of them. Longbourn was a quiet and well-ordered house after the Bennet’s took over. Mr. Collins had lived a frugal life and saved all he could. His ultimate goal was to make amends for all the atrocities his ancestors had committed against the Bennet family. It was a heartwarming story of repentance and restoration. There were enemies without and within that had to be dealt with.
Henry Bennet was an acquaintance of the senior Mr. Darcy and his son Fitzwilliam. The families had known each other for years. Elizabeth knew Fitzwilliam Darcy and they were friends. Jane and Mary were both lovely girls and the three sisters were inseparable. Their mother [not the Fanny Gardiner] had passed a few years before. Mrs. Hill was delighted with the new Bennet family and pleased that Longbourn would be restored to its former glory. That journey would not be an easy one.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mature due to the villains
>>Angst Level: medium due to the behavior of scoundrels, a kidnapping attempt, and language describing the deplorable actions of villains.
>>Source: This was borrowed from KU and I volunteered to leave a review of my thoughts and opinions. This was a long story with 37 chapters. The last chapter included future events and acted as an epilogue and included the future marriages and children of the characters.
>>Trope: [1] Inheritance grab or theft. [2] Bennet was a parson with only the three eldest daughters. [3] a very different Caroline.
>>Religious Element: Like his father, Bennet was a parson and his three daughters helped him with parish duties. There were references to a higher power and scriptures that were consistent with a man of God. Just because Bennet had become landed gentry did not mean he had stepped away from his upbringing, religious teachings, nor his principles. It is not presented in a preachy manner, but was consistent with who he was and with the time period.
“All we can do is strive to accept our fate with grace, whatever it might be.” –Christopher Paolini, Inheritance
Henry Bennet and his three daughters returned to Longbourn after the death of Mr. Collins, its previous owner. Bennet’s grandfather had been denied his birthright but the heir of the man who stole Longbourn, willed it back into Bennet control. This was an interesting twist to the P&P storyline. A Collins cousin had cheated a Bennet out of Longbourn and thus the subsequent Bennet sons had to find their way in society. As his father before him, Henry Bennet had become a parson and lived a good life until the day the solicitor told him he had been named in the will of Mr. Collins who owned Longbourn. Bennet’s life and that of his daughters would change forever.
“But bad people live in good places.” –Nora Roberts, Inheritance
Rowland is known for shaking up Austen’s P&P storyline. Several characters were unrecognizable while others were more than their canon account. It was so much fun watching a character to see if the changes in their personality were real or if their spots would eventually show through. It was so nice not having to deal with Fanny Bennet and the two younger sisters. I get so tired of them. Longbourn was a quiet and well-ordered house after the Bennet’s took over. Mr. Collins had lived a frugal life and saved all he could. His ultimate goal was to make amends for all the atrocities his ancestors had committed against the Bennet family. It was a heartwarming story of repentance and restoration. There were enemies without and within that had to be dealt with.
Henry Bennet was an acquaintance of the senior Mr. Darcy and his son Fitzwilliam. The families had known each other for years. Elizabeth knew Fitzwilliam Darcy and they were friends. Jane and Mary were both lovely girls and the three sisters were inseparable. Their mother [not the Fanny Gardiner] had passed a few years before. Mrs. Hill was delighted with the new Bennet family and pleased that Longbourn would be restored to its former glory. That journey would not be an easy one.
December 17, 2024
Two generations back, the Bennets lost Longbourn in an unscrupulous bit of legal trickery, but inexplicably, the culprit has willed it back to its rightful owners. A widowed Henry Bennet and his three daughters are the Bennets returning to their rightful home and starting a new life as landed gentry with the help of Mr. Bennet's good friend, Mr. Darcy.
An interesting bit of intrigue that opens this story with the mystery of why and how the wrong that was done the family was righted and the mystery is woven throughout the story. The Bennet Inheritance has deviated a ways from the original especially since this Bennet has been a parson, is widowed, and only ever had three daughters. He also is already acquainted with Darcy who has a respect for Bennet and his family. The principle "Pride & Prejudice" part is nowhere to be seen as this is a low-angst romance with no real road blocks to their happiness.
Now, that said, the book has its conflict- there is an ambitious social-climbing Caroline Bingley who is less shrill and more quietly plotting, a very devious Wickham, and a domineering and demanding Lady Catherine who will do what it takes to keep Darcy for her daughter. Oh, and there is a cold-calculating new villain who has not given up hope of ousting the Bennets once again from their home.
The Bennet Inheritance is a slow build, slow-burn, and saga-style plot with multiple romances, intrigues, and more. I wouldn't have minded. In fact, I love this sort of variation tale, but there was one thing that pulled me out of the story. Late in, there is a situation that happens involving Mr. Collins, Lady C, Darcy, and Fitzwilliam which started out reading as very similar until I realized it was identical to a long-scene and conflict from an earlier book of this author. It had one minor change involving Collins, but I wish there could have been a different plot choice here not straight out of an earlier book. It can be done to start out similar like the author did with the Caroline bit which felt similar to an earlier book until it went a very different direction to pleasing results for being something refreshing.
So, this was an easy-going, long build gently toned story that was sweet and engaging. If the reader likes an active, mature and romantic Mr. Bennet with three bright, bubbly, but sensible daughters who have their work cut out for them restoring and holding their new home while finding love, this is a good bet.
An interesting bit of intrigue that opens this story with the mystery of why and how the wrong that was done the family was righted and the mystery is woven throughout the story. The Bennet Inheritance has deviated a ways from the original especially since this Bennet has been a parson, is widowed, and only ever had three daughters. He also is already acquainted with Darcy who has a respect for Bennet and his family. The principle "Pride & Prejudice" part is nowhere to be seen as this is a low-angst romance with no real road blocks to their happiness.
Now, that said, the book has its conflict- there is an ambitious social-climbing Caroline Bingley who is less shrill and more quietly plotting, a very devious Wickham, and a domineering and demanding Lady Catherine who will do what it takes to keep Darcy for her daughter. Oh, and there is a cold-calculating new villain who has not given up hope of ousting the Bennets once again from their home.
The Bennet Inheritance is a slow build, slow-burn, and saga-style plot with multiple romances, intrigues, and more. I wouldn't have minded. In fact, I love this sort of variation tale, but there was one thing that pulled me out of the story. Late in, there is a situation that happens involving Mr. Collins, Lady C, Darcy, and Fitzwilliam which started out reading as very similar until I realized it was identical to a long-scene and conflict from an earlier book of this author. It had one minor change involving Collins, but I wish there could have been a different plot choice here not straight out of an earlier book. It can be done to start out similar like the author did with the Caroline bit which felt similar to an earlier book until it went a very different direction to pleasing results for being something refreshing.
So, this was an easy-going, long build gently toned story that was sweet and engaging. If the reader likes an active, mature and romantic Mr. Bennet with three bright, bubbly, but sensible daughters who have their work cut out for them restoring and holding their new home while finding love, this is a good bet.
October 28, 2024
Interesting
A rather interesting and unusual twist in this variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Jann Rowland. I enjoyed it.
A rather interesting and unusual twist in this variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Jann Rowland. I enjoyed it.
December 30, 2024
In this long story we have many of the main characters from P&P. Catherine/Kitty and Lydia are missing as the story begins. So is their mother. Mr. Bennet is a very different character. This Bennet's father became a parson (with Fitzwilliam Darcy's father's help) when Longbourn was "stolen" from him. So it is that Mr. Henry Bennet follows in his father's footsteps with his "Living" in Woodborough.
This Bennet family seems to be almost "too good"...especially compared to the family in canon. The three sisters, Jane, Elizabeth and Mary are very close. Mr. Bennet is an active and involved father and lives by what he preaches. He is determined to bring the neglected Longbourn he inherited back to its previous earning level and to renew the neglected state within the house.
The mystery of why Longbourn was lost involves a Mr. Philips, a solicitor, in Meryton. He is not "out-of-the-picture", even though Longbourn now belongs to Bennet. Bits of information as to how Longbourn was lost appear throughout the story.
We also have a number of romances in this tale. Caroline Bingley is still on the prowl for Darcy but as she soon sees his attachment to Elizabeth she is open for other suitors. As in canon Bingley leases Netherfield and we read of Darcy acting as consultant to both Mr. Bennet and Bingley as they learn to manage an estate. Georgiana is part of the group of young ladies as we read of the ladies spending much time together at either estate. Louisa Bingley is NOT married...her tale is interesting.
This story had little angst. Wickham does appear but is dealt with swiftly. Lady Catherine makes noises...to no avail. However, ironically, she then attacks from a different angle!
I enjoyed this story and have read many by this author.
This Bennet family seems to be almost "too good"...especially compared to the family in canon. The three sisters, Jane, Elizabeth and Mary are very close. Mr. Bennet is an active and involved father and lives by what he preaches. He is determined to bring the neglected Longbourn he inherited back to its previous earning level and to renew the neglected state within the house.
The mystery of why Longbourn was lost involves a Mr. Philips, a solicitor, in Meryton. He is not "out-of-the-picture", even though Longbourn now belongs to Bennet. Bits of information as to how Longbourn was lost appear throughout the story.
We also have a number of romances in this tale. Caroline Bingley is still on the prowl for Darcy but as she soon sees his attachment to Elizabeth she is open for other suitors. As in canon Bingley leases Netherfield and we read of Darcy acting as consultant to both Mr. Bennet and Bingley as they learn to manage an estate. Georgiana is part of the group of young ladies as we read of the ladies spending much time together at either estate. Louisa Bingley is NOT married...her tale is interesting.
This story had little angst. Wickham does appear but is dealt with swiftly. Lady Catherine makes noises...to no avail. However, ironically, she then attacks from a different angle!
I enjoyed this story and have read many by this author.
October 29, 2024
So many words. I heard that Kindle authors get paid based on word count. If so, then this is a prime example. So many words, and nothing happens.
I enjoy many of Mr. Rowland's previous books, and this one had an interesting premise and potential, but it just dragged on and on, repeating the same stuff without anything happening.
I enjoy many of Mr. Rowland's previous books, and this one had an interesting premise and potential, but it just dragged on and on, repeating the same stuff without anything happening.
November 10, 2024
2.5 stars
November 13, 2024
Most of the characters were vastly different than the source material. Very shallow book with all the loose ends tying up too neatly
March 10, 2025
Enjoyed it
Audiobook review.
Harry Frost’s narration, as always, is excellent. He knows these characters inside and out, and that really shines in his performance bringing the entire story to life perfectly. Five stars for Harry.
I always like it when an author changes up the Bennet family, so the premise of The Bennet Inheritance caught my attention. Mr. Bennet, a parson, regains Longbourn after it was stolen and later willed back to him by the man who took it—a setup that adds a touch of mystery as the full history unfolds gradually throughout the book. Mr. Darcy, connected to Mr. Bennet through his late grandfather goes to Longbourn to teach Bennet how to manage an estate.
This variation brings some good twists: only three Bennet sisters—Jane, Elizabeth, and Mary—are featured, and the Bingley sisters’ storylines veer sharply from the usual path. This is a nice Elizabeth and Darcy friends-to-lovers romance with enjoyable scenes of light, teasing banter between them. Both have excellent personalities, and I loved them as a couple—free of the typical misunderstandings. But this story has an equal focus on Mr. Bennet.
The relationship between Mr. Bennet and Darcy is stellar; I especially adored Mr. Bennet in this story. Responsible as a parson, he carries that same sense of duty into his role as Longbourn’s master. Bingley has his usual supporting role as Jane’s beau and has a strong, dependable character. There’s a hint of light angst once the villain’s plans are revealed, building anticipation for when and how the action will unfold, though I never felt their schemes would succeed.
Audiobook review.
Harry Frost’s narration, as always, is excellent. He knows these characters inside and out, and that really shines in his performance bringing the entire story to life perfectly. Five stars for Harry.
I always like it when an author changes up the Bennet family, so the premise of The Bennet Inheritance caught my attention. Mr. Bennet, a parson, regains Longbourn after it was stolen and later willed back to him by the man who took it—a setup that adds a touch of mystery as the full history unfolds gradually throughout the book. Mr. Darcy, connected to Mr. Bennet through his late grandfather goes to Longbourn to teach Bennet how to manage an estate.
This variation brings some good twists: only three Bennet sisters—Jane, Elizabeth, and Mary—are featured, and the Bingley sisters’ storylines veer sharply from the usual path. This is a nice Elizabeth and Darcy friends-to-lovers romance with enjoyable scenes of light, teasing banter between them. Both have excellent personalities, and I loved them as a couple—free of the typical misunderstandings. But this story has an equal focus on Mr. Bennet.
The relationship between Mr. Bennet and Darcy is stellar; I especially adored Mr. Bennet in this story. Responsible as a parson, he carries that same sense of duty into his role as Longbourn’s master. Bingley has his usual supporting role as Jane’s beau and has a strong, dependable character. There’s a hint of light angst once the villain’s plans are revealed, building anticipation for when and how the action will unfold, though I never felt their schemes would succeed.
November 3, 2024
Boring and repetitive
DNF - I suffered through about 50% and that was all I could do. Typically, I like Jann’s books, but this was in need of a major edit. Extremely repetitive, no character development, just dull.
DNF - I suffered through about 50% and that was all I could do. Typically, I like Jann’s books, but this was in need of a major edit. Extremely repetitive, no character development, just dull.
November 3, 2024
good
The book was well done, but somewhat boring. No real angst and no passion whatsoever. I’m not taking about physical passion, just it felt very unromantic!
The book was well done, but somewhat boring. No real angst and no passion whatsoever. I’m not taking about physical passion, just it felt very unromantic!
November 5, 2024
Not one of his best efforts
Although, Mr Jan Rowland has written several good P&P variations this was not one. It was slow moving and dull.
Although, Mr Jan Rowland has written several good P&P variations this was not one. It was slow moving and dull.
November 30, 2024
Interesting
Definitively a complete variation. Most of the circumstances are changed and some of the characters have different traits. It feels familiar and different at the same time.
Definitively a complete variation. Most of the circumstances are changed and some of the characters have different traits. It feels familiar and different at the same time.
November 22, 2024
A variation works best with one core change, which may cause other changes through a ripple effect. There were many unrelated changes in this variation.
November 8, 2024
Could have had better pacing, this was loooooong. Also a little more editing is necessary, esp when referring to the bingley sisters. There was a reference to Louisa as Louisa hurst when she had declined Mr hurst in this story.
November 3, 2024
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. Years after conspiring men denied his father the inheritance that was his by birthright, Mr. Henry Bennet returns to Longbourn with his three daughters, having received the estate on the death of its previous master. Mr. Bennet has no notion why the man who stole it from his father willed the property to his control, but he is grateful to return to the lands of his forebears. As the Bennets settle into their lives as gentlefolk once again, their new friends welcome them to the neighborhood, and they begin the struggle to turn Longbourn again into a prosperous estate. In this, Mr. Bennet finds assistance from his friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy, a scion of the family who proved his father’s salvation. Mr. Darcy, eager to help his dear friend learn how to become master of the estate, takes an immediate liking to the man’s second daughter, Elizabeth, who works her way into his heart with little effort. Unexpected to them all, their new position opens vistas wide to them, for the prospect of love and devotion, a future filled with promise, is open to them, from the eldest to the youngest. Of even greater importance, the Bennets will learn something of themselves and discover something of the betrayals that led to their family’s hiatus from the estate. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. Years after conspiring men denied his father the inheritance that was his by birthright, Mr. Henry Bennet returns to Longbourn with his three daughters, having received the estate on the death of its previous master. Mr. Bennet has no notion why the man who stole it from his father willed the property to his control, but he is grateful to return to the lands of his forebears. As the Bennets settle into their lives as gentlefolk once again, their new friends welcome them to the neighborhood, and they begin the struggle to turn Longbourn again into a prosperous estate. In this, Mr. Bennet finds assistance from his friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy, a scion of the family who proved his father’s salvation. Mr. Darcy, eager to help his dear friend learn how to become master of the estate, takes an immediate liking to the man’s second daughter, Elizabeth, who works her way into his heart with little effort. Unexpected to them all, their new position opens vistas wide to them, for the prospect of love and devotion, a future filled with promise, is open to them, from the eldest to the youngest. Of even greater importance, the Bennets will learn something of themselves and discover something of the betrayals that led to their family’s hiatus from the estate. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
November 2, 2024
This was very disappointing. I liked the setup of the story and the changes to the Bennet and Bingley families, but then the story became one long slog.
Even a low-angst story should have something happen to keep the story moving. Instead, in this story there’s a lot of talking and lot of repeating ideas and sentiments already mentioned. You have to wait until the final third of the story (the arrival of Wickham) for anything interesting or exciting to happen. Even then, everything was resolved quickly.
There were hints of some intrigue relating to the theft of the estate from the Bennet family and it’s return to the current Bennets, but in the end, there was nothing surprising or unexpected revealed.
Darcy and Elizabeth face no real challenges and fall in love nearly at first sight. If that’s your cup-of-tea, then you might enjoy this. I found it tedious in the extreme.
2.5-stars rounded up for some originality in the premise.
Even a low-angst story should have something happen to keep the story moving. Instead, in this story there’s a lot of talking and lot of repeating ideas and sentiments already mentioned. You have to wait until the final third of the story (the arrival of Wickham) for anything interesting or exciting to happen. Even then, everything was resolved quickly.
There were hints of some intrigue relating to the theft of the estate from the Bennet family and it’s return to the current Bennets, but in the end, there was nothing surprising or unexpected revealed.
Darcy and Elizabeth face no real challenges and fall in love nearly at first sight. If that’s your cup-of-tea, then you might enjoy this. I found it tedious in the extreme.
2.5-stars rounded up for some originality in the premise.
Read
November 15, 2024I wanted to enjoy this book, because I thought it had an interesting premise (which is does) but, to be honest, I found myself skimming towards the end, as it was so long, and there were huge sections where it felt like we were waiting for something to happen.
Everyone is witty, everyone is forming connections, we get told a lot about what is happening in summary and it seems like any action was left for the last 20% of the book. They were building Mr Phillips up to be the big villain in the series, but nothing comes of that. Then Wickham rears his (deceptively handsome) face, and is easily dealt with. Lady Catherine tries to make trouble, but again, this is all dealt with easily.
Everyone gets a happily ever after, and this is low stakes, which is great if you just want some slice of life that's not going to raise your blood pressure. This is a relatively undemanding read, which might be good for low winter hours left inside.
Everyone is witty, everyone is forming connections, we get told a lot about what is happening in summary and it seems like any action was left for the last 20% of the book. They were building Mr Phillips up to be the big villain in the series, but nothing comes of that. Then Wickham rears his (deceptively handsome) face, and is easily dealt with. Lady Catherine tries to make trouble, but again, this is all dealt with easily.
Everyone gets a happily ever after, and this is low stakes, which is great if you just want some slice of life that's not going to raise your blood pressure. This is a relatively undemanding read, which might be good for low winter hours left inside.
January 24, 2025
This idea interested grabbed my attention but it just did not deliver - 2.5*
As is generally the case with this author the book is tidily written with minimal typos or other errors.
Unfortunately the signs of editing are not present at all. The book goes on and on with the same things said again and again and nothing happening. Darcy and Elizabeth spent over 50% of the book discussing whether they might care about each other enough and when they might get round to courting/engagement. It is relentless and dull. At the 70% mark there was a brief sign of a plot but it was snuffed out again pretty quickly.
This is at least 300 pages too long for the plot offered. I liked the cover which matched the book well.
A clear miss for me.
2* = “it was ok” (Goodreads rating)
As is generally the case with this author the book is tidily written with minimal typos or other errors.
Unfortunately the signs of editing are not present at all. The book goes on and on with the same things said again and again and nothing happening. Darcy and Elizabeth spent over 50% of the book discussing whether they might care about each other enough and when they might get round to courting/engagement. It is relentless and dull. At the 70% mark there was a brief sign of a plot but it was snuffed out again pretty quickly.
This is at least 300 pages too long for the plot offered. I liked the cover which matched the book well.
A clear miss for me.
2* = “it was ok” (Goodreads rating)
November 17, 2024
Interesting variation
This Pride and Prejudice variation centers on the widowed Mr. Bennet, less on Elizabeth and Darcy, and the least on Jane and Mary. There are no Kitty or Lydia.
While the uniqueness kept my attention, I skipped sections of descriptions to find actual conversation. The beginning was quite promising & kept my attention. About halfway, I got impatient. The end seemed rather rushed after the rather long-winded middle. There were some editing misses, but I didn't avail myself of the "report error content " for Kindle.
That said, I believe it's enjoyable and would recommend it as a second line choice if you are a big JAFF reader.
This Pride and Prejudice variation centers on the widowed Mr. Bennet, less on Elizabeth and Darcy, and the least on Jane and Mary. There are no Kitty or Lydia.
While the uniqueness kept my attention, I skipped sections of descriptions to find actual conversation. The beginning was quite promising & kept my attention. About halfway, I got impatient. The end seemed rather rushed after the rather long-winded middle. There were some editing misses, but I didn't avail myself of the "report error content " for Kindle.
That said, I believe it's enjoyable and would recommend it as a second line choice if you are a big JAFF reader.
April 17, 2025
A stolen estate returned
Mr Bennet’s ancestors lost their estate due to greedy relatives and then one returned it upon his death. In the meantime Mr Bennet had been a rector and was content in his life with his three girls. Darcy’s grandfather was one who helped Mr Bennet’s father after the loss of the estate thus Mr Bennet and Darcy were friends. This friendship helped pave the way for additional friends and later marriages. I liked seeing Caroline and Louisa along with a younger Mr Collins (cousin to the ones who stole the estate) in this variation. Overall this is a low angst story. I got the audiobook to go with and Harry Frost’s narration is 5 stars!
Mr Bennet’s ancestors lost their estate due to greedy relatives and then one returned it upon his death. In the meantime Mr Bennet had been a rector and was content in his life with his three girls. Darcy’s grandfather was one who helped Mr Bennet’s father after the loss of the estate thus Mr Bennet and Darcy were friends. This friendship helped pave the way for additional friends and later marriages. I liked seeing Caroline and Louisa along with a younger Mr Collins (cousin to the ones who stole the estate) in this variation. Overall this is a low angst story. I got the audiobook to go with and Harry Frost’s narration is 5 stars!
October 28, 2024
Where are the 9 or 10 Star Options?
Once again Jann Rowland has given us an exceptional story. As a long time P&P fan and a lover of variations and vagaries I can honestly say that I am blown away with all the ways that most of our well known characters are so wonderfully different. I especially enjoyed the fact that Caroline Bingley is a worthy woman who was able to become friends with the Bennet women. Zero angst, gripping story, fabulous dialogue. I want to give this 10 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Once again Jann Rowland has given us an exceptional story. As a long time P&P fan and a lover of variations and vagaries I can honestly say that I am blown away with all the ways that most of our well known characters are so wonderfully different. I especially enjoyed the fact that Caroline Bingley is a worthy woman who was able to become friends with the Bennet women. Zero angst, gripping story, fabulous dialogue. I want to give this 10 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 21, 2025
As he is a favourite author, I enjoyed reading this Mr. Bennet-focused story. The relationship between Elizabeth, who is intelligent and witty, and Darcy, who is honourable but not haughty, was secondary but sufficient to satisfy my preferences. As always, Mr. Rowland crafts a unique plot with a relatively low level of angst. There could perhaps have been one more edit to eliminate some typos and repetition, but overall the story was satisfying.
November 20, 2024
Enjoyable
The plot was good, and was helped by omitting some of the usual suspects.
One problem I had was confusion when Caroline Bingley was referred to by Miss Bingley when she was supposed to be called Miss Caroline. I had to stop and think about how Louisa was still unmarried, and was therefore Miss Bingley.
The plot was good, and was helped by omitting some of the usual suspects.
One problem I had was confusion when Caroline Bingley was referred to by Miss Bingley when she was supposed to be called Miss Caroline. I had to stop and think about how Louisa was still unmarried, and was therefore Miss Bingley.
December 4, 2024
Full of surprises
In this relatively low angst story there are plenty of plot twists. As Darcy is smitten with Elizabeth at first site, I found it dragged a bit in the passages where he reassures her of his devotion but delays any real commitment on the grounds it is too soon. Worth a read.
In this relatively low angst story there are plenty of plot twists. As Darcy is smitten with Elizabeth at first site, I found it dragged a bit in the passages where he reassures her of his devotion but delays any real commitment on the grounds it is too soon. Worth a read.
December 8, 2024
ok read
I’m happy to see use of the pride and prejudice characters however the story felt rushed as the author was trying to squeeze everything and anyone into one story. There was not enough room for character development or storyline depth. Still a good read and I would recommend to pride and prejudice readers.
I’m happy to see use of the pride and prejudice characters however the story felt rushed as the author was trying to squeeze everything and anyone into one story. There was not enough room for character development or storyline depth. Still a good read and I would recommend to pride and prejudice readers.
December 9, 2024
Interesting Storyline
I enjoyed this variation of the Bennet family with the three eldest and no Mrs. B, Kitty and Lydia. A strong Mr. B gives a totally different dynamic. The biggest issue I had was it seemed so wordy. It took forever for things to develop. All in all, the Bingley family had some surprises, and of course the obligatory bad guys, including Wickham.
I enjoyed this variation of the Bennet family with the three eldest and no Mrs. B, Kitty and Lydia. A strong Mr. B gives a totally different dynamic. The biggest issue I had was it seemed so wordy. It took forever for things to develop. All in all, the Bingley family had some surprises, and of course the obligatory bad guys, including Wickham.
October 27, 2024
An entertaining variation. Quite involved as many of this author's works. My only complaint would be I would have enjoyed a scene divider at the end of a scene so the transition to the next scene was clear. Otherwise, I enjoyed this read.
November 3, 2024
Well done
Interesting twists in plot and characters, with Bennet being a parson restored to the Longbourn inheritance and Darcy his particular friend. A stately progression through interesting courtship leads to a happily ever after, despite a nasty Wickham. Nicely entertaining!
Interesting twists in plot and characters, with Bennet being a parson restored to the Longbourn inheritance and Darcy his particular friend. A stately progression through interesting courtship leads to a happily ever after, despite a nasty Wickham. Nicely entertaining!
November 4, 2024
Mr Bennet, parson
Unexpected pairings, some shuffling around of characters and circumstances, and here you have it, a most intriguing story. I especially liked this version of Mr Bennet as he appears to much greater advantage as a parent and landowner.
Unexpected pairings, some shuffling around of characters and circumstances, and here you have it, a most intriguing story. I especially liked this version of Mr Bennet as he appears to much greater advantage as a parent and landowner.
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