K Hall

Love Julie Cooper

Revisado: 04-04-25

One of my favorite re-listens is Nameless. An intricate plot that unveils itself slowly, with each piece of the puzzle snapping into place. Everything about this book is perfection. Stevie Zimmerman’s narration of every single character was wonderful - I especially loved Jane’s husband‘s voice ”Come see us - In the summer - after the baby!!” I find it magical how Stevie Zimmerman can create a different voice for each important character.
And the beauty of a somewhat older Elizabeth finding a determined Darcy, ready to carry her off! And in the middle of a swirling backstory! Their love story builds slowly but vividly. The weaving of Georgina and the Gardener‘s into the plot in an intricate and poignant way was also clever.
I have listened to all of Julie Coopers books - and often listen again. Each one of her books is unique and always memorable. But this book is one of her very best.

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Not My Favorite

Revisado: 11-10-24

I have read several books by this author. I liked Peacocks at Pemberley and From Pemberley to Gretna Green but did not feel the same about this book. I realize it is a personal choice, but I like variations that share more genuine attraction between Darcy and Elizabeth. It does not need to be graphic, but the feeling of desire should be present. Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship is iconic - Pride and Prejudice is as beloved as it is today because we share deeply in their romance. I prefer to see their devotion to one another rather than quoting bible verses.

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Refreshingly Different

Revisado: 11-09-24

A well written and unique take on EB’s life. She is a strong and independent woman, yet gracious and charming. Lizzy, Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Georgiana, and the Gardener’s are all likable characters. But there are dark episodes and trauma. It was quite different, which made it more compelling, because you were not sure where it was headed. Disease and medical knowledge also played a role. And carefully written legal documents!
Good writing by JDK and the incomparable Stevie narrating.

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Amazing Book

Revisado: 11-05-24

This book deserves the Pulitzer Prize. Tender, funny, crushing, clever, compelling and so memorable. Beautiful writing and fabulous narration. My entire book group felt the same joy and admiration.

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Complex and challenging but so worth the effort

Revisado: 03-02-24

This book is not the usual sweet variation. It is an often painful and challenging read, yet there are lovely, tender romances - very different yet quite beautiful. I actually listened to the last few chapters twice to revel in the joy once i had finished the book.

The story is complex and fascinating. It reminded me of Charlotte Bronte, because it requires work from the listener to get through the tough moments in order to move forward, All the dark parts of Jane Eyre and all the pain - it was worth the work to end with love. Doubt Not Cousin is equal to that ending.

The character development is bonkers good. Several generations of nefarious behavior concentrated in a titled family. It was a puzzle with pieces fitting into the story, but never all at once. There were many ah-ha moments when I suddenly had an answer to another secret. The back story of Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam and Fitzwilliam Darcy are so well developed - they are bonded cousins, devoted to one another.

This is Barry S. Richman's first novel. Remarkable. And Samuel James was a stunning narrator. Several times he sang as a female character. He did so many different voices which helped in identifying the various characters. The writing and the narration were some of the best I have ever enjoyed. I will add this book to my annual re-listen list.

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Needed More Romance

Revisado: 02-11-24

This was an interesting, well written book about Lizzy recovering from a bad marriage and learning to trust again. I liked parts of it very much, especially a more positive view of Lydia. And I liked the independent Lizzy that a bad marriage produced. But once Darcy entered the scene, I felt like there was too much talking and revisiting the same aspects of Lizzy's recovery, but very little actual romance. Just discussion of the possibility of romance, and the hope for the same. Her thoughts, his thoughts, her thoughts, etc. Too much tell and not enough show. I wanted to see them at Pemberley, and see a happy Lizzy in her second marriage.

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Sweet story. Good narrator.

Revisado: 02-03-24

Needed an epilogue. And perhaps more time after the wedding showing Darcy, Lizzy, Georgina and Daisy together.

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Pride and Misconceptions at Pemberley

Revisado: 07-20-23

Loved this book! Jessie Lewis is a favorite writer and Elizabeth Grace a favorite narrator. What's not to love!

This takes place almost entirely at Pemberley during a a time when this beautiful manor faces possible destruction. Darcy questions the hopeful possibility of a loving relationship with Lizzy when he needs hope the most. In a questionable but honest way others conspire against their relationship. Mrs. Renyolds plays a significant role, among others.

What I loved most about this book is the freshness of the plot, and the impressive complexity of the plot. It is one of the most unique variations I have read. Jessie Lewis uses one word titles for her books and it is always fun to dissect the book and match it to the title. And Elizabeth Grace's narration is as fabulous as always.

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A Very Sweet LIfe

Revisado: 07-20-23

This is a variation with almost no angst. The Bennet's don't worry about ending in the hedgerows, Mrs Bennet behaves, The family is very wealthy and accepted by the ton. Elizabeth and Darcy have an ongoing and gracious courtship. If you like a long sweet listen this book is perfect. If you like more challenges and lots of angst, maybe not so much. Unfortunately I prefer more problems to solve and some serious angst, but with a good resolution and ardent affection.

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Mystery, Rescue and Romance

Revisado: 06-23-23

This is a very enjoyable story. The romance was quite believable and full of tender moments. At the beginning of the book Lizzy is in very grave danger yet uses her wits and courage to survive. There were a couple of truly scary scenes. It is a well composed story that is not easy to figure out - a true mystery. Colonel Fitzwilliam plays a big role and is funny as usual. There is lots of witty and often comical conversation. Darcy is extremely likable, his heart captured and his judgement occasionally in question because he is not thinking clearly. He is in love but doesn't know it!

The sound is a tiny bit wonky in the beginning but not enough to detract from the overall enjoyment. The dual narration by Elizabeth Grace and Harry Frost was done differently from most double narrations. Usually chapters are narrated by one or the other narrator, with the male narrator also reading the female role, and vise versa. Both Elizabeth Grace and Harry Frost are excellent at realistically doing male or female voices, but this book was not done that way. It had the majority of the narration by Harry Frost with Elizabeth Grace popping in whenever Lizzy needs to speak, or when another female is speaking. This manner of recording worked so well in the Darcy/Lizzy scenes, especially the romantic conversations between the two of them.

Elizabeth Grace and Harry Frost are two of my very favorite narrators. The slight difference in the early sound quality was not an issue. Do not let this keep you from listening to a very well written variation full of charm, humor and a romantic rescue from nasty perpetrators. I hope Audible offers more of Melanie Rachel's P&P variations.

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