Progression Vol. 2: A Continuation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice by Jodi L. Covey
My rating: 5 of 5 starsA stunning story of the time after marriage for Darcy and Elizabeth. In this continuation, Elizabeth and Georgiana are entering the ton, and society is not being kind. Darcy made a major misstep early in their marriage which has society tittering behind their hands that the marriage was a mistake he now regrets. This can't be further from the truth, but the Darcy's are in a hole and need help to rise above.
Lady Matlock has a plan and it involves Almacks and the frightening matrons who determine who will be accepted. This idea centers around Georgiana's coming out as a way to relaunch Mrs. Darcy. So now we have three reluctant participants - Elizabeth who is just doing it for the family but is afraid she is too much of an outsider, Georgiana who is doing it for Elizabeth but is truly not ready to enter society, and Darcy who just doesn't want to see Elizabeth and Georgiana changed into society ladies and doesn't want to share them with anyone. This combination is not allowing society to see the marriage in any kind of better light!
In addition, Caroline has her own very serious drama with the man she has chosen to replace Darcy in her affections. Meantime, Colonel Fitzwilliam is feeling that he no longer can sit back safely in the militia, and want to join the regulars in their fight against Napoleon. But, Lord Matlock is totally opposed to him putting himself in harms way.
One of the best aspects of this story is how three-dimensional the author has made our favorite characters. We see all sides of Elizabeth as she tries to stay true to herself, yet become the society matron the family needs her to be, and, in addition, be supportive of her husband in his struggles. Darcy may have improved himself for Elizabeth, but he is still Darcy - aloof, restrained, proud, and resistant to change. He fights this having to prove to society his marriage is strong and resents having to open up his heart for others to see, but he knows he must do this for Elizabeth. Georgiana is becoming more and more mature and worldly, yet cannot trust herself when it comes to relationships - how will she know who is sincere and who is not? Coming out is a frightening prospect, but she will do it for Elizabeth and her family. Even the minor characters are well drawn and we feel Caroline sinking into madness and Colonel Fitzwilliam's struggles to become his own man.
Finally we have the story that will continue into the third book of the series - that of Miss Anne de Bourgh. Anne has broken free of her mother and come to London to stay with the Matlocks. She has brought Mrs. Collins (the former Charlotte Lucas) with her as support. Anne is not a young ingenue, yet her heart is still very innocent and she is a bit naive. She is growing stronger and bolder and is having the time of her life in London - for once free of her mother's restrictions. All of this, however, places her at risk. Her family wish to see her enjoying herself, but they know her wealth puts her at risk for scoundrels and they are watching very carefully.
What I loved most about the story is the wonderful language in the writing. This sounds so much like the language of Austen's era. Not all authors can accomplish this, but this author writes very effectively with a tone of the Regency. All in all, I found this a very satisfactory read, as long as the reader is comfortable with series reading. The story does not end here, although some aspects are brought to conclusion.
Highly recommended for JAFF lovers, and those readers of Regency historic fiction.
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