Sketching Character in Austenesque Lovers TBR Pile Reading Challenge 2016

Sep 17, 2015 Claudine DiMuzio / Just Jane 1813 rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: just-jane-1813-pride-prejudice-va

Ever since I reread "Pride & Prejudice" last year, I have longed to read more about those three mysterious times during Elizabeth's and Darcy's visits to Rosings, where Darcy happened to meet Elizabeth during her early morning rambles… It was a part of P&P that I wished Austen would have written for us with more details in regards to their time spent together. How did Elizabeth not see Darcy's admiration for her after meeting her there "accidentally" three times? I have pondered that question ma Ever since I reread "Pride & Prejudice" last year, I have longed to read more about those three mysterious times during Elizabeth's and Darcy's visits to Rosings, where Darcy happened to meet Elizabeth during her early morning rambles… It was a part of P&P that I wished Austen would have written for us with more details in regards to their time spent together. How did Elizabeth not see Darcy's admiration for her after meeting her there "accidentally" three times? I have pondered that question many times... I also wished that Andrew Davies would've elaborated on these scenes when he wrote the screenplay for the 1995 BBC version of "Pride & Prejudice." But it was not to be…

Imagine my joy when Pamela Lynne wrote "Sketching Character" and gifted us with plenty of those swoon-worthy scenes in the woods of Rosings Park. What pure happiness I experienced as I was able to actually read some of the most beautiful scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth at Rosings Park and run through the woods in such a captivating manner!

"Sketching Character" is a P&P variation that contains many twists and turns; some of these changes are familiar to a JAFF reader and a few are quite original in their execution. There are also some bold changes in a few of our main characters, and there are other characters, such as Caroline Bingley, who remain the same in their essentials throughout this story. Some of these changes were quite appealing to me, such as the bolder Jane Bennet we meet in this story, and yet, a few of these changes, such as the deviations to Lydia's storyline, didn't feel as believable for me by the end of the book. I enjoyed the way Colonel Fitzwilliam's character was sketched throughout the book, as this was a stance I haven't often seen, and I thought it was well done here throughout the entire story. I felt satisfied in his personal journey and was glad I had the chance to experience this alternate path for his relationship with Darcy. It also wasn't overdone or heavy-handed in any way.

There was a lovely romance at the heart of this book and quite a few beautifully tailored scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth. The word choices were poetic in many places and allowed the reader to really experience the growth of a very strong and devoted love between Darcy and Elizabeth. I enjoyed the way they expressed their love for each other and the scenes where little details were added throughout the story that allowed us to witness how they came together in their relationship. I think their love story is the greatest strength of this book.

Pamela Lynne's writing is well-paced, as she moves her plot along with a comfortable pace. I couldn't wait to read the next part of the book each time I had to put it aside. After reading her first two books, I can eagerly say I look forward to her third book, which I hope is her sequel to "Dearest Friends!"
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Sep 17, 2015 Erika rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: jane-austen

I was fortunate to have won an ebook from a contest on Austenesque Reviews.

So the premise is that there is a significantly tragic event after the Netherfield Ball that alters Elizabeth's understanding of human nature and of her judgement. She is forced to reconsider her opinions and character sketches on almost everyone.

Things stay initially in canon where the Netherfield party high-tails it to London after the ball. Jane with her heart broken, goes to London with the Gardiners. And Elizabeth g ...more

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Oct 21, 2015 Meredith (Austenesque Reviews) rated it it was amazing

Shelves: jane-austen, pride-and-prejudice, favorites

What If A Bennet Sister Got Herself In Trouble?

TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation

TIME FRAME: Netherfield Ball through the summer + epilogue

MAIN CHARACTERS: Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth Bennet, Lydia Bennet, Jane Bennet, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Anne de Bourgh, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner

SYNOPSIS: Elizabeth and one of her sisters carry some heavy and secret burdens in this variation. They face harsh realities, disappointment in those they thought they could depend on ...more

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Mar 01, 2021 Sophia rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: jane-austen-austenesque, historical-romance-english-welsh

After listening to Dearest Friends, I realized that I had missed one of the author's backlist books and it was already on my shelf. Of course I had to slip right back into her writing with another engaging cast of characters and plot surrounding the Pride and Prejudice world.

Sketching Character tackles a sad and slightly darker subject than the original Austen story because it answers 'what if' Wickham had debauched Lydia before he left Meryton and also asks 'what if' Colonel Fitzwilliam wasn't After listening to Dearest Friends, I realized that I had missed one of the author's backlist books and it was already on my shelf. Of course I had to slip right back into her writing with another engaging cast of characters and plot surrounding the Pride and Prejudice world.

Sketching Character tackles a sad and slightly darker subject than the original Austen story because it answers 'what if' Wickham had debauched Lydia before he left Meryton and also asks 'what if' Colonel Fitzwilliam wasn't the honorable friend to Darcy, but jealous of what he had? There are more alternations to the original so that this felt more distant from the original though still strongly P&P flavored.

Elizabeth must prove her own strength to sustain her sister through this difficult crisis and hold the secrets so the family reputation is protected. She must also face her own faulty judgment of character that had her just as deceived as Lydia though luckier because she was not seduced. It forces to admit that she wanted to see Darcy as the villain because he didn't compliment her looks. Darcy must fight his arrogance that sees him and his family above others especially when he knows his extended family proves they are not honorable and not better than Elizabeth or her relations. Time spent on walks and talking privately teach the pair to appreciate and cultivate the blooming romance between them, but of course, insidious words from a surprising source might destroy it all.

Around the Elizabeth and Darcy romance are the story of others like Jane who realizes before Lizzy that while Bingley was influenced, it was his own choice not to return to her, Georgiana who moves past her mistake, Anne who is far stronger and determined than anyone guessed, and oh yes, Lydia herself who has a rough journey into womanhood having to change so much. So many wonderful plot threads going on.

I was particularly touched by the times when the Bennet sisters were together or showing each other the support and understanding they couldn't get from their parents. This was especially striking when it was Elizabeth and Lydia who shared a deeper relationship through the trial. Darcy was also closer with his sister and a couple cousins. There was one unusual villain in this one that is generally not the bad guy, but I was glad to see how that was handled in the end.

There was a heartwarming, swoony epilogue after all the major conflict was dealt with and things were settled. This was moderately angsty and had a riveting bundle of plot threads that had me flying through the story. Those who like a slightly spicy, but strongly altered Pride and Prejudice variation would probably enjoy this one. ...more

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Sep 29, 2015 Sheila Majczan rated it really liked it · review of another edition

4.5 stars

I, too, won this book through a drawing on a blog. I read it over the last three days and found that at times, I just had to put it down and take a break. NOW don’t take that in a negative way but realize that sometimes one has to take a break from tension and suspense. There were times I wasn’t sure where things were going…although I do depend on a HEA for our dear couple. But I had just finished another book with much angst and with one following the other, I needed a respite.

Although 4.5 stars

I, too, won this book through a drawing on a blog. I read it over the last three days and found that at times, I just had to put it down and take a break. NOW don’t take that in a negative way but realize that sometimes one has to take a break from tension and suspense. There were times I wasn’t sure where things were going…although I do depend on a HEA for our dear couple. But I had just finished another book with much angst and with one following the other, I needed a respite.

Although the places visited in this version of JAFF may be the same, for me the characters are different, and their actions in similar places and times are not as you read of in canon. Colonel Fitzwilliam, for me, took on some similar qualities in his behaviors to Wickham. WHAT? You may say…No, he didn’t seduce anyone, nor gamble away what little money he possesses, but his relationship to Darcy does undergo a change and you will not get the explanation for that from me…here. Family factions play a part in asking for loyalties and living up to standards…or sinking to certain levels.

Elizabeth plays much more of a pivotal role in her family and their destinies. Mr. Bennet’s attitude and actions in “protecting” and caring for and planning for his daughters play out to the extreme in this tale. I have never admired him, as I believe he neglects all his duties towards his family and his estate. His only redeeming quality was that he fulfilled a role in Elizabeth’s education with his indulgence for her use of his library and his discussions with her. But he does not respect her advice in canon nor does he step up in this book. Elizabeth’s insight in uncovering a sister’s misery and determination then in coming up with some sort of solution plus her continued care about how that progresses show us a woman with an agenda to care for all her sisters and to protect them. And this author gives one sister a journey “to hell and back”. I was so pleased…all the way into the epilogue of the lessons learned and remembered by that “little one”.

Anne DeBourgh has her own gratifying plan come to fruition as she celebrates her twenty-fifth birthday. (Lady Catherine didn’t see that coming.) Jane and Bingley – well, we know that they were separated after the Netherfield Ball. But…is Darcy’s observation that she didn’t display a depth of attachment to match Bingley’s still a mistaken opinion and one which Elizabeth will call him on? The time in Kent has some crucial changes for this variation to come to a satisfactory conclusion. And as Darcy finally admits to himself his feelings we also read of twists precipitated by family members both well-intended and NOT.

Wickham and Caroline do have some comeuppance within…to my satisfaction.

There is so much more to relate, so much more to tell but I am trying not to write SPOILERS. Vulgar Roses? Running through a grove of trees? A woman “under his protection”. There are some scenes of an intimate nature but tame by most reading standards. Do read this very different variation and remember it is a variation…creativity and imagination abound.
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Sep 18, 2015 Mary rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: 2016-books

A very clever storyline encompassing a secret with a twist,a very understanding, sweetly endearing Darcy,a brave, fiercely independent and strong Elizabeth,a naive and all too-trusting Lydia and a very different Colonel Fitzwilliam all add the necessary spice to this compelling story.

I must admit that I loved it -I couldn't put it down in my eagerness to discover how ODC would overcome the many difficulties that lay in their path.

Ms Lynne has a unique way with words, her very clever plot,quick ...more

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Oct 02, 2015 Carol Perrin rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Sketching Character: A Jane Austen Inspired Novel

Excellent story about the tragic affair that dealt with Wickham's treachery, and her father's reaction to what happened. Only he and Elizabeth know what happened and she's made up her mind to help her sister. Several months after the London group leaves Netherfield, Jane, Elizabeth, and one of her younger sisters leave for London. Her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner have found somewhere for the younger sister in Lambton, Derbyshire. In fact, the lady is h Sketching Character: A Jane Austen Inspired Novel

Excellent story about the tragic affair that dealt with Wickham's treachery, and her father's reaction to what happened. Only he and Elizabeth know what happened and she's made up her mind to help her sister. Several months after the London group leaves Netherfield, Jane, Elizabeth, and one of her younger sisters leave for London. Her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner have found somewhere for the younger sister in Lambton, Derbyshire. In fact, the lady is her cousin to Mrs. Gardiner. Her aunt assures her that will be taken care of and possibility of light chores, but as soon as the Gardiners leave, she is given difficult and back breaking chores that strip both her dignity and help. When the Mr. Of the house starts touching her and saying horrible things he was going to do to her, she runs away. Meanwhile, Elizabeth is in Kent at the parsonage. Before getting there, the horses get scared because of the thunder and lightning, and when the driver loses control, the carriage flips over do to the muddy road. Sir William Lucas is hurt, but Elizabeth and Maria are shaken up and bruised. Elizabeth was about to walk to Bromley in the rain when an carriage arrives at the scene. My, oh, my. Once Darcy gets over the shock from seeing her, and she remembers how badly she misread him, things smoothed out somewhat. However, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam was not the nice man as in most variations. He and his older brother, “Frederick, have taken after their father. All these men have mortified Lady Matlock for almost her entire marriage. Now that the oldest brother married Lady Victoria, he's a changed man. When Darcy is invited to dinner at the Matlocks, the Earl invited two courtesans to dinner with his sons, his daughter, and Lady Victoria. Darcy is not interested, and leaves the home his cousin, Frederick, tells Darcy he is done with his father and brother and moves to his wife's family home. Richard can see that Darcy loves Elizabeth, but at each opportunity makes some remark trying to discredit his cousin. Two days before they were to leave, Anne had her mother, Lady Catherine de Bourgh sent to the Dowager's house. She is now in charge with running Rosings. Of course Darcy will help, but neither of them wanted to marry each other. Elizabeth and Darcy were in the forest when he and Anne came upon them just when was going to propose. Elizabeth was ready and would have said yes. Jumping up, Darcy admonishes Richard for bringing her out this far and takes her back to Rosings. Richard strikes, telling Elizabeth carefully worded lies that leave Elizabeth furious. She verbally abuses him and stalks off. Not knowing what has happened, Darcy is dejected and drinks him into a stupor. Fitzwilliam shows up saying he was taking him out to see friends. No friend, by the courtesan Matlock tried to have him give into. Luckily, Bingley was there, saw what was happening, and escorts him home. Too late it already reached the news paper. Darcy tries to confront his cousin, but replies that he is too busy with his soldiering to come. Darcy sees what his cousin is about and compares his actions to Wickham. He heads for Pemberley and just as the carriage reaches the front gate, it stops. When Darcy sees who it is, he orders the carriage home and the called immediately. When the Gardiners and Elizabeth arrive to pick up her sister and find her gone, they come down hard on the Baines, family or not. Before dark, the Gardiners go to try to find their niece. Elizabeth knows she is near Pemberley and even though she hurt Darcy, she remembers he told her if she needed him to come. She does travel with the servant, Hannah, and when the door opens, Darcy is so happy to see her. The Gardiners are sent for and all were happy to see her sister alive. Elizabeth and Darcy realizes that they still love each other and once she tells him all of what his cousin said, he is furious. Elizabeth and her family are invited to stay at Pemberley during her sister's confinement. A baby girl is borne, and is immediately placed in another home. Had to be done quickly since Caroline Bingley invited herself and her brother, early to Pemberley along with the Colonel. Immediately upon seeing Elisa, she starts in on trying to make her look bad, but little does she know that Elizabeth and Darcy are betrothed. When announced, poor stupid Caroline retires to herself room with a headache. In a few days, she leaves Pemberley to her own establishment. The Hursts don't want her and neither does Charles. Inviting the men to his study, Darcy finally gets his chance to show Fitzwilliam how he felt about the lies he told. He leaves Pemberley and has been reassigned to Canada. When the special license arrives, Darcy and Elizabeth marry in front of her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner, her three sisters and Jane's husband. Darcy finds Wickham with the help of Colonel Forster, he leaves Wickham thinking he'll be hung. Good old Bingley, he lost Jane, but still married a Bennet daughter. ...more

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Oct 02, 2015 Deborah rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: ja-read, 2015-austenesque-reading-challenge

I had a difficult time putting this book down.

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May 05, 2016 Kim rated it really liked it

Shelves: pride-and-prejudice, austenesque-tbr-challenge2016

Wow. If you love JAFF, you should read this. Loved the epilogues, too.

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Nov 09, 2015 Laura rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Excellent book! Elizabeth and Darcy portray a much sweeter side at Kent due to Elizabeth learning early on about what a cad Wickham is and the banter/dialogue between Darcy and Elizabeth was extremely enjoyable with both characters at their most clever. Lydia gets a big limelight in this book and we get to see her learn from her mistakes and turn into a character you actually enjoy reading about. Her jab at Caroline is the absolute best! For those who love Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Bennet, nei ...more

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