The Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlow:

5 stars

The story does not end at Pemberley anymore. Mary, an object of mockery and disgust to both her parents, has understandably struggled to properly define her own worth. After trying to discover her place in the world with the Bingleys, the Darcys, and even the Collinses, she, at last, finds a degree of success with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner in London. But happiness isn’t always found simply by chance, and Mary realizes she must grab hers with both hands or risk losing it altogether.

What an unexpected and glorious addendum to Jane Austen’s classic tale. When I saw the ads for the miniseries, The Other Bennet Sister, I had not hoped for much. Yet, I love the miniseries—a new favorite. It is exactly the thing I didn’t realize was missing from my life. And I then had to read the book that inspired it.

The two, while similar, are very different, and I am grateful because both versions are worth telling. Like a malt and an ice cream soda: distinct variations on a theme, yet both add considerably to the pleasures of life.

Ms. Hadlow’s writing is transporting; Longbourn is revived, and with remarkably few alterations, a reader's view has been upended. Rather than simply adding to the original tale, the narrative overlaps, shifting perspectives, and showing favorite characters in a new and occasionally unflattering light. It creates friction with our beloved Pride and Prejudice, exploring truths even that novel does not deny.

This is a careful, delicate journey, mindful of preservation, and deeply humanizing. It is impossible not to enter into Mary’s feelings, from humiliations to triumphs. New shades are painted into Jane, Elizabeth, Charlotte, Mr. Collins, Mrs. Hill, and even Mr. Hurst. The world convinces and, perhaps even more spectacularly, the language and dialogue tread that thin line between absolute authenticity and accessibility with confidence. This is a timely and entertaining exploration of poetry, morality, happiness, and the finest and most tender of feelings.

There are numerous areas that shine: however, the echoes of Pride and Prejudice toward the end, while elegant, rather undercut Mary’s story. We can see the ghost of Lizzie. Still, it is a nice homage.

The Other Bennet Sister is essential reading for every Austenite, aspiring historical author, and those who enjoy the thought of fusing Jane Eyre with Pride and Prejudice—with Austen’s sensibilities prevailing. I do not generally consider derivative fiction eligible to be called a work of genius, but this is. Ms. Hadlow did it the hard way and deserves full marks for originality. And after having reached such an achievement, I normally wouldn’t advise writing a sequel, but I want to know more. To that end, I’ll not advise; I’ll beg!