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frompemberleytomiltonblog's review
4.0
Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpress.com/2021/11/09/in-essentials-by-helen-williams/
In Essentials is definitely a unique story with a premise that may not please everyone, but which compelled me to buy and read the book.
In this novel, Elizabeth Bennet becomes suddenly ill after the Hunsford proposal and the unknown and uncurable disease changes her life dramatically. Elizabeth’s strength is forever lost, and many of the simple joys of life that she took for granted, such as taking a long walk in the countryside, are no longer a reality.
As you may imagine the tone of the book is very dark and the characters will suffer throughout the entire story, but it is beautifully written and certainly different then anything you’ve seen before in JAFF.
I personally loved the premise and the unique approach the author took because Ms. Williams explored the human nature, and the characters reactions to adversity, in a blunt but honest manner. Most characters behaved as expected, and it was precisely the fact that they all remained who they truly were in essentials that made me enjoy the book. My particular favorite was Mary Bennet, who did not surprise me, but was able to stand out in the narrative and seemed the most balanced character in the entire storyline.
As I mentioned before, I did like the premise, and I especially liked the fact that the ending is not the usual fairy tale one, so that was certainly not an issue for me (even if it may be for others), however, I would have liked to see more plot development. At moments, I felt the story was not progressing, or that it was solely focused on Elizabeth’s health progression, which may have been the authors goal, but I personally would have liked more drivers in the plotline.
Nevertheless, In Essentials is a tale of courage and optimism that I enjoyed reading. It shows the readers a love stronger than everything, with Mr. Darcy showing a devotion, tenderness and courage that will reach everyone’s hearts, and with an Elizabeth Bennet who will make everyone proud due to her obstinacy, strength, and positivity (even if too forgiving in my opinion).
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpress.com/2021/11/09/in-essentials-by-helen-williams/
In Essentials is definitely a unique story with a premise that may not please everyone, but which compelled me to buy and read the book.
In this novel, Elizabeth Bennet becomes suddenly ill after the Hunsford proposal and the unknown and uncurable disease changes her life dramatically. Elizabeth’s strength is forever lost, and many of the simple joys of life that she took for granted, such as taking a long walk in the countryside, are no longer a reality.
As you may imagine the tone of the book is very dark and the characters will suffer throughout the entire story, but it is beautifully written and certainly different then anything you’ve seen before in JAFF.
I personally loved the premise and the unique approach the author took because Ms. Williams explored the human nature, and the characters reactions to adversity, in a blunt but honest manner. Most characters behaved as expected, and it was precisely the fact that they all remained who they truly were in essentials that made me enjoy the book. My particular favorite was Mary Bennet, who did not surprise me, but was able to stand out in the narrative and seemed the most balanced character in the entire storyline.
As I mentioned before, I did like the premise, and I especially liked the fact that the ending is not the usual fairy tale one, so that was certainly not an issue for me (even if it may be for others), however, I would have liked to see more plot development. At moments, I felt the story was not progressing, or that it was solely focused on Elizabeth’s health progression, which may have been the authors goal, but I personally would have liked more drivers in the plotline.
Nevertheless, In Essentials is a tale of courage and optimism that I enjoyed reading. It shows the readers a love stronger than everything, with Mr. Darcy showing a devotion, tenderness and courage that will reach everyone’s hearts, and with an Elizabeth Bennet who will make everyone proud due to her obstinacy, strength, and positivity (even if too forgiving in my opinion).
hedwigsaardvark's review
5.0
This is such a good book!
Watching Elizabeth's wit and irrepressible personality through the lens of devastating illness was compelling. Darcy's love and devotion are a joy to see.
I thoroughly recommend that you read this
Watching Elizabeth's wit and irrepressible personality through the lens of devastating illness was compelling. Darcy's love and devotion are a joy to see.
I thoroughly recommend that you read this
vesper1931's review
3.0
In this Pride and Prejudice variation on returning from Rosings Elizabeth falls very ill resulting in Mary travelling with the Gardiners, and Lydia not going to Brighton. How will this affect the future of the Bennet daughters. With another disappointing pairing for Mary.
Overall an enjoyable variation
Overall an enjoyable variation
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