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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
14 of 15 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
While I would not count Elizabeth Ashton's latest, "The Darcy Connection" as an example of her very best work, I'd have to admit: it really is a charming and enjoyable read.
"The Darcy Connection" follows the fortunes of Mr. Collins' two daughters, Charlotte and Eliza, as they navigate their way through a merciless London season. Both Charlotte and Eliza are of marriageable age; however Mr. Collins, now Bishop of Ripon, has not the means to secure either of his daughters a desirous match. Fortunately for Charlotte at least, her wealthy godmother is willing to sponsor a London season for her, sure that her extraordinary beauty will ensure her a brilliant match. Headstrong Eliza however accompanies her sister not because an equally brilliant match is expected for her so much as to remove her from the sphere of a smitten suitor whose parents oppose of their son's attachment to Eliza. Defiant, Eliza is resolved to show no interest in London swains and fashions -- that is until a dismissive remark from a certain gentleman causes her to rethink her stance...
While quite the enjoyable and delightful read, Elizabeth Ashton did reuse many plot motifs and devices from previous novels -- like beautiful but remote elder sisters, and heroes who seem to disapprove of the heroine and who make initial cutting remarks that they later live to regret. So really, there was nothing terribly original or unique about "The Darcy Connection." On the other hand, it was a well crafted novel, full of thoughtfully depicted characters, that made for an absorbing and compelling read. So that even though I personally wished that Charlotte had been less of a cipher and that she had figured more vitally into the story at hand; and even though I thought that there was a missed opportunity not to have included Mr. Collins more into the plot, I will say that "The Darcy Connection" truly was a charming and delightful read.
"The Darcy Connection" follows the fortunes of Mr. Collins' two daughters, Charlotte and Eliza, as they navigate their way through a merciless London season. Both Charlotte and Eliza are of marriageable age; however Mr. Collins, now Bishop of Ripon, has not the means to secure either of his daughters a desirous match. Fortunately for Charlotte at least, her wealthy godmother is willing to sponsor a London season for her, sure that her extraordinary beauty will ensure her a brilliant match. Headstrong Eliza however accompanies her sister not because an equally brilliant match is expected for her so much as to remove her from the sphere of a smitten suitor whose parents oppose of their son's attachment to Eliza. Defiant, Eliza is resolved to show no interest in London swains and fashions -- that is until a dismissive remark from a certain gentleman causes her to rethink her stance...
While quite the enjoyable and delightful read, Elizabeth Ashton did reuse many plot motifs and devices from previous novels -- like beautiful but remote elder sisters, and heroes who seem to disapprove of the heroine and who make initial cutting remarks that they later live to regret. So really, there was nothing terribly original or unique about "The Darcy Connection." On the other hand, it was a well crafted novel, full of thoughtfully depicted characters, that made for an absorbing and compelling read. So that even though I personally wished that Charlotte had been less of a cipher and that she had figured more vitally into the story at hand; and even though I thought that there was a missed opportunity not to have included Mr. Collins more into the plot, I will say that "The Darcy Connection" truly was a charming and delightful read.
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase
Sisters Eliza and Charlotte - daughters of clergyman Mr Collins of Pride and Prejudice fame now the impoverished Bishop of Ripon - are in London so that Charlotte can attract a rich husband. Charlotte is a beautiful ice maiden and soon attracts many suitors. Eliza is less beautiful and of a far less biddable disposition and has been sent to London to keep her out of the way of the local Squire's son because they have formed an unsuitable attraction.
Eliza is not impressed by her sister's social success though she finds London an interesting place and soon starts to enjoy herself and meet some fascinating people. Those readers who have followed this series of novels will be pleased to meet old friends such as Pagoda Portal and Mrs Henrietta Rowan and Camilla Wytton and her husband.
But there is a return of a villain in the form of unpleasant George Warren who is determined to prevent the marriage of Charlotte to his Uncle the Marble Marquis. Eliza meanwhile has attracted the attention of banker Bartholomew Bruton who seems to know more about her than is quite comfortable. The book is an excellent read for those who like Georgette Heyer and Jane Austen. Elizabeth Aston's characters are always interesting and spirited and refuse to be bound by convention. The dialogue is sparkling and the plot intriguing. One of the best in this series in my opinion.
Eliza is not impressed by her sister's social success though she finds London an interesting place and soon starts to enjoy herself and meet some fascinating people. Those readers who have followed this series of novels will be pleased to meet old friends such as Pagoda Portal and Mrs Henrietta Rowan and Camilla Wytton and her husband.
But there is a return of a villain in the form of unpleasant George Warren who is determined to prevent the marriage of Charlotte to his Uncle the Marble Marquis. Eliza meanwhile has attracted the attention of banker Bartholomew Bruton who seems to know more about her than is quite comfortable. The book is an excellent read for those who like Georgette Heyer and Jane Austen. Elizabeth Aston's characters are always interesting and spirited and refuse to be bound by convention. The dialogue is sparkling and the plot intriguing. One of the best in this series in my opinion.
Most Helpful Customer Reviews on Amazon.com (beta)
Amazon.com:
14 reviews
10 of 11 people found the following review helpful
3 1/2 stars: a delightful read
4 Mar 2008
Format:Paperback
While I would not count Elizabeth Ashton's latest, "The Darcy Connection" as an example of her very best work, I'd have to admit: it really is a charming and enjoyable read.
"The Darcy Connection" follows the fortunes of Mr. Collins' two daughters, Charlotte and Eliza, as they navigate their way through a merciless London season. Both Charlotte and Eliza are of marriageable age; however Mr. Collins, now Bishop of Ripon, has not the means to secure either of his daughters a desirous match. Fortunately for Charlotte at least, her wealthy godmother is willing to sponsor a London season for her, sure that her extraordinary beauty will ensure her a brilliant match. Headstrong Eliza however accompanies her sister not because an equally brilliant match is expected for her so much as to remove her from the sphere of a smitten suitor whose parents oppose of their son's attachment to Eliza. Defiant, Eliza is resolved to show no interest in London swains and fashions -- that is until a dismissive remark from a certain gentleman causes her to rethink her stance...
While quite the enjoyable and delightful read, Elizabeth Ashton did reuse many plot motifs and devices from previous novels -- like beautiful but remote elder sisters, and heroes who seem to disapprove of the heroine and who make initial cutting remarks that they later live to regret. So really, there was nothing terribly original or unique about "The Darcy Connection." On the other hand, it was a well crafted novel, full of thoughtfully depicted characters, that made for an absorbing and compelling read. So that even though I personally wished that Charlotte had been less of a cipher and that she had figured more vitally into the story at hand; and even though I thought that there was a missed opportunity not to have included Mr. Collins more into the plot, I will say that "The Darcy Connection" truly was a charming and delightful read.
"The Darcy Connection" follows the fortunes of Mr. Collins' two daughters, Charlotte and Eliza, as they navigate their way through a merciless London season. Both Charlotte and Eliza are of marriageable age; however Mr. Collins, now Bishop of Ripon, has not the means to secure either of his daughters a desirous match. Fortunately for Charlotte at least, her wealthy godmother is willing to sponsor a London season for her, sure that her extraordinary beauty will ensure her a brilliant match. Headstrong Eliza however accompanies her sister not because an equally brilliant match is expected for her so much as to remove her from the sphere of a smitten suitor whose parents oppose of their son's attachment to Eliza. Defiant, Eliza is resolved to show no interest in London swains and fashions -- that is until a dismissive remark from a certain gentleman causes her to rethink her stance...
While quite the enjoyable and delightful read, Elizabeth Ashton did reuse many plot motifs and devices from previous novels -- like beautiful but remote elder sisters, and heroes who seem to disapprove of the heroine and who make initial cutting remarks that they later live to regret. So really, there was nothing terribly original or unique about "The Darcy Connection." On the other hand, it was a well crafted novel, full of thoughtfully depicted characters, that made for an absorbing and compelling read. So that even though I personally wished that Charlotte had been less of a cipher and that she had figured more vitally into the story at hand; and even though I thought that there was a missed opportunity not to have included Mr. Collins more into the plot, I will say that "The Darcy Connection" truly was a charming and delightful read.
10 of 12 people found the following review helpful
Elizabeth Ashton's best yet!
1 Mar 2008
Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase
I just finished it and have such a grin on my face! I have enjoyed all of Ashton's books-- and this one is by far her best! Her writing is always top-notch, well-developed story lines, and well researched for the language and period. How can you not immediately love the heroine of the story who is named after her godmother, Elizabeth Darcy! and has similar character traits. Some of Ashton's characters from her previous books are sprinkled through out adding color and drama... even the dispicable George Warren, the angling, spiteful step-son of Caroline Warren, nee Bingley. Eliza is the 2nd daughter of the Collins' and like in P&P, she is not so beautiful as her elder sister so must get on by her other natural assets. I'll not spoil any of the story for you but know it is full of sweet romance, witty conversations, a clever maid!, handsome,exciting, rich men (both good and bad!) and even a Mr. Darcy sighting! I've been waiting for this new novel and am so glad to add it to my library. The subtle and some blatant similarities to P&P are entertaining and fun to recognize! I look forward to re-reading this at a more leisurely pace. This is a keeper.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
Pleasurable Fun for the Fans
2 Nov 2008
Format:Paperback
That famously infamous power couple from "Pride and Prejudice", Mr. and Mrs. Collins, have grown into middle age and now have two grown daughters, Eliza and Charlotte, both unmarried, and like all Austen maidens, in need of a husband. A visit from Mrs. Collin's aunt, Lady Grandpoint, along with an entanglement between Eliza and the son of the local squire, generates the perfect excuse for a London season for the two girls. With great pleasure, Lady Grandpoint escorts Eliza and Charlotte to her London home. There the Grand Dame hopes that Charlotte's beauty will ensnare a man of fortune, as she looks for ways to quench Eliza's passions and pressure her to accept the advances of a respectable, but boorish, clergyman.
Unbeknownst to the forthright Lady Grandpoint, for her two young companions, London is the place for secrets. The aloof and extraordinarily beautiful Charlotte does attract many admirers, but the coolness of her manners leads one to conclude that her heart is not easily touched. As Eliza watches with a careful eye and bets are placed at the aristocratic mens' clubs, all wonder, "Who will Charlotte choose?" It seems that for everyone there is money at stake.
And Eliza herself is no slouch when it comes to keeping her own counsel. Eliza finds herself reluctantly attracted to the sharp and intelligent Bartholomew Bruton, while she struggles with her loyalty to the boy back home, with whom she is secretly engaged. The secret correspondence between the two, if it became known, would ruin her reputation, and her sister's by association. As if such entanglements are not enough to keep her busy, Eliza must guard the secret of just how she is coming into the extra pin money that is paying for the fashionable gowns she is wearing about town. This last secret alone threatens to destroy not just her sister's and her own reputations, but risks the position and prospects of her father, Bishop Collins.
As the novel progresses, we learn more about the limits of Charlotte's restraint and watch Eliza grow to add sense to her sensibility. This is a clever play upon the sisterly relationships of Elinor and Marianne in Austen's "Sense and Sensibility," along with a bit of Jane and Elizabeth from "Pride and Prejudice." Aston's love for Austen shines through, but she never takes herself too seriously by trying to imitate too closely. Any serious fan of Jane Austen should find this sequel to be pleasurable fun.
Unbeknownst to the forthright Lady Grandpoint, for her two young companions, London is the place for secrets. The aloof and extraordinarily beautiful Charlotte does attract many admirers, but the coolness of her manners leads one to conclude that her heart is not easily touched. As Eliza watches with a careful eye and bets are placed at the aristocratic mens' clubs, all wonder, "Who will Charlotte choose?" It seems that for everyone there is money at stake.
And Eliza herself is no slouch when it comes to keeping her own counsel. Eliza finds herself reluctantly attracted to the sharp and intelligent Bartholomew Bruton, while she struggles with her loyalty to the boy back home, with whom she is secretly engaged. The secret correspondence between the two, if it became known, would ruin her reputation, and her sister's by association. As if such entanglements are not enough to keep her busy, Eliza must guard the secret of just how she is coming into the extra pin money that is paying for the fashionable gowns she is wearing about town. This last secret alone threatens to destroy not just her sister's and her own reputations, but risks the position and prospects of her father, Bishop Collins.
As the novel progresses, we learn more about the limits of Charlotte's restraint and watch Eliza grow to add sense to her sensibility. This is a clever play upon the sisterly relationships of Elinor and Marianne in Austen's "Sense and Sensibility," along with a bit of Jane and Elizabeth from "Pride and Prejudice." Aston's love for Austen shines through, but she never takes herself too seriously by trying to imitate too closely. Any serious fan of Jane Austen should find this sequel to be pleasurable fun.
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