This slow burn, second chance, sapphic romance was an odd choice for me. Based on Pride and Prejudice, a book I am on record disparaging, I was prepared to dislike this book. Strongly. My initial hopes were that I may tolerate this novel and I feel honour-bound to stress this point. I did not expect to enjoy it. I definitely did not expect to adore it with the same fervour our heroines experience for the other!
The plot is simple, Mrs Charlotte Collins (formerly Miss Charlotte Lucas) is widowed and writes to her best friend, Elizabeth Darcy, asking for companionship. As Lizzie is detained with her child’s illness, she sends her sister Mary instead.
Charlotte Lucas is thoroughly believable. Her motivations and thought processes will resonate with anyone who has ever questioned their sexuality, independent of time period. Mary Bennet is turned into a feminist icon. Her bloom from Austen’s untalented wallflower to an enthusiastic, amateur botanist is a leap but a welcome one. Her journey resonates as keenly as Charlotte’s for those who have struggled to find their place in society.
This story is heart-warming, competently written and so very real. I cried with empathy, raged at injustices and cheered with abandon – a high bar for any author, let alone for their debut. While I admit, it was difficult to believe Canterbury was queer with an established gay scene, what else is fiction for? I choose to believe that our gay elders were actively providing sanctuaries for our fledglings.
My only criticism is Charlotte’s naivety which becomes tedious in places. It may be my own prejudice against the genre but the frustration of any character missing the obvious rapidly evolves into irritation. Character growth comes at a cost. In my case, eye strain from all the rolling. I shall concede the point as a necessary evil but I’m not happy about it.
For romance readers and fans of Bridgeton, this is a must read. For non-romance readers, this is not a bad start if you’re interested in attempting the genre. I hope for a sequel, where Mary and Charlotte are aging ‘spinsters’ who take in their own fledgling lesbian couple.
Written By: ivetafox
Favourite Game – Long Live the Queen || Favourite Film – Sweeney Todd || Favourite Book – Wuthering Heights
About: Ivy is a disabled, autistic writer from the UK, passionate about inclusive gaming. When not reviewing, she can be found writing short stories and micro fiction or reading the latest gothic novel.
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Haven’t watched/read ‘Pride and Prejudice’ but sapphic romance adaptation/twist always is a good trope! Thanks for the rec 😀