Sunday, June 9, 2013

My Share in the Conversation...Bluebells in the Mourning

Bluebells in the Mourning by KaraLynne Mackrory

Before Darcy can make that fateful first proposal, Elizabeth gets bad news from Longbourn. Darcy’s offer to escort her home from Hunsford allows him to realize her perception of him and to attempt to change her opinion. His compassion and kindness does not go unnoticed. Gradually Elizabeth begins to see the real man but is not yet ready to forget her first impressions.

The tragedy that has befallen the Bennet family leaves many unanswered questions. Mr. Bennet seeks Darcy’s help to solve them. The answers could jeopardize Darcy’s future but as an honorable and good man, he puts his own concerns aside in search of the truth. He is, after all, a very capable man!

One of the many things I liked about this book was the relationship that developed between Mr. and Mrs. Bennet out of the tragedy they suffered. There are also some insights and plausible explanations for Fanny’s nerves and behavior that I found quite gratifying. Well done, Ms. Mackrory.

In several places I laughed out loud, especially scenes where Colonel Fitzwilliam is baiting Darcy. Unbeknownst to each, Georgiana and the Colonel have suspicions regarding Darcy’s feelings for Elizabeth. The means they use to discover if their suspicions are founded are extremely entertaining.

When the Gardiners and Elizabeth travel to Derbyshire (Chapter 11) Darcy and Lizzy encounter some bluebells during a walk. This chapter is filled with emotion and is truly lovely. I was immersed in the feelings and the scenery. I will leave the rest to the reader's discovery.

A revelation of a Bennet secret, Lydia’s diary, a kiss and much more await the reader of this excellent book and good story! I highly recommend it.

4.5 out of 5 stars
PG Rating for no explicit sex

I was given a paperback by the publisher for a fair and honest review.

This is my 11th book in the Pride and Prejudice Bicentenary Challenge of 2013.

There is still an active giveaway for this book at the author's post of Men in Boots: Why Regency Men Are Sexy. Leave a comment at that post telling us why you think Regency men are sexy to be entered in that giveaway. The giveaway ends at midnight, June 11.

11 comments:

  1. This one sounds really good. I love alternative paths Austenesque stories. I look forward to the special bluebells chapter. Thanks for sharing your review.

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    1. You will not be disappointed. It was such a beautiful chapter!

      Thanks for coming by and reading my review, Sophia Rose!

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    2. Bluebells are very romantic flowers, it would seem. :)

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  2. Oh yes, Janet! The relationship between Mr. and Mrs. Bennet was very gratifying! I like these smpyathetic portrayals of them. So glad you enjoyed this one!!!

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    1. I loved it! I felt the reason's given for Mrs. Bennet's behavior were so plausible that I could believe them as actually explaining her nerves! I think it very nice to see them caring for one another.

      Thanks, Meredith, for visiting and commenting!

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    2. I had fun this time making fanny into an endearing character. in my first book I didnt attempt her. It was a challenge and one I liked sinking my teeth into.

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  3. This sounds like a truly lovely story! Thanks, Janet for the VERY tempting review, it looks like something I would love to read!

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    1. I think you would enjoy it, Joana. Thanks for coming by!

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    2. Mr Darcy awaits your pleasure Joana S. :)

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  4. Hi Karen,
    I'm 3/4 way through Bluebells in the Mourning. It is so good. I love how you have taken the tragedy of someone's death and helped our favorite characters to grow stronger and love each other. I wish all the best with your new publication and can hardly put the book down. Will finish today!
    Jen Red

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    1. I'm glad you came by, Jen. Isn't it a good book! Glad you are enjoying it too!

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