The Second Mrs. Darcy

If you've been reading Aston's Darcy novels, you'll already know what to expect in this fourth installment: an entertaining plot, likeable characters, and a happy ending. This one centers around Octavia Darcy, the widow of a distant cousin of Mr. Darcy (of P&P fame). Her insufferable family tries to control her life, but when she inherits an unexpected fortune, she is finally able to be independent. Of course, romantic (and other) complications ensue, and the result is a very entertaining read. My only problem with the book is that Aston seems to be rather too fond of the comma splice. The lesson to be learned: it's okay to use a period/full stop.

How many variations on Pride & Prejudice can be written? Apparently an infinite number. In this book the Mrs. Darcy in question, Octvia, is recently widowed from Christopher Darcy, a distant cousin of Fitzwilliam Darcy, in India. As Christopher Darcy's estate is entailed, Octavia will inherit nothing and is thrown on the mercy of her rich relations in London - that is until she discovers that she is heiress to the fortune of an unknown aunt. (Aren't these unknown relatives convenient?)

How she navigates her new found riches and becomes an independent woman makes for delightful light reading.

I wanted a cozy read, and the two books I started before this failed that test, so I must say that it gave me what I wanted. I raced through the story, enjoying the references to characters in the author's other works, as well as the history elements. There were a few instances where something that was related as a historical detail seemed wrong, or when the references to 'the previous century' in spoken speech irked me, happening as it did 25 years or more into the century... a few nitpicks here and there, but a good story about a deserving heroine, and a likable hero.

For Jane Austen fans only. The plot is Austenish and has some charm, but is missing Austen's inimitable biting humor. Lots of references to characters from Austen novels, though they never appear. I enjoyed it.

Apart from the reprehensile use of the Darcy connections of Jane Austen the story is quite good.

I could not put this book down, I loved it. After reading so much "junk" regency stuff, this was a breathe of fresh air.