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Port and Proposals
All Mr Bennet wants to do is read books, eat cake, and study butterflies. But life has other plans for him in this Regency tale of love, regret, and second chances.
Family troubles and a promise to his middle daughter, Mary, force our father of five out of his library to deal with reticent bachelors, stubborn curates, and glib officers. Though his greatest challenge may be to face up to a past he cannot seem to forget.
Mark Brownlow presents a Pride and Prejudice variation full of Mr Bennet's wit and wisdom that plays out against the backdrop of Vols II and III of Jane Austen’s famous novel.
Although a standalone story, Port and Proposals is also the sequel to Brownlow's Cake and Courtship.
Family troubles and a promise to his middle daughter, Mary, force our father of five out of his library to deal with reticent bachelors, stubborn curates, and glib officers. Though his greatest challenge may be to face up to a past he cannot seem to forget.
Mark Brownlow presents a Pride and Prejudice variation full of Mr Bennet's wit and wisdom that plays out against the backdrop of Vols II and III of Jane Austen’s famous novel.
Although a standalone story, Port and Proposals is also the sequel to Brownlow's Cake and Courtship.
- GenresRomance
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 25, 2020
52 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Mark Brownlow
6 books34 followersMark is a British-born writer and travel journalist now living in Vienna, Austria.
Published May 2023: a new Charlotte Collins mystery...
Published May 2023: a new Charlotte Collins mystery...
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 28, 2020
5+ stars!
I've become a huge fan of this author. He perfectly captures both Mr. Bennet's droll sense of humor and his detached attitude towards most of the other inhabitants of his world. Mr. B would rather read, study butterflies, or attend regular meetings with his cronies for cake and conversation than engage in anything else that would require him to exert himself.
Although generally his indolence extends to his parenting, he can't help noticing Jane's low spirits since Mr. Bingley left Netherfield or Elizabeth's odd humor when she returns from her visit to see her friend Charlotte Collins at Hunsford. Moreover, Mary appears to have a tendre for Mr. Spigott, a nondescript local curate who's generally overlooked, much like she is. In the latter case, they seem like a natural fit for each other, but it's a match that Mrs. Bennet is not likely to promote.
Much of this story relates Mr. B's realization of how deeply unhappy his third daughter is with her place in the Bennet household, leading to his own fumbling attempts at matchmaking.
However, the bulk of the tale has to do with Mr. and Mrs. Barton and, in particular, Mrs. Barton's mother, Mrs. Abigail Hayter. The Bartons are quite well off and, as Mrs. Bennet well knows, in an excellent position socially to introduce her daughters to eligible and wealthy gentlemen. The Bartons owe a debt of gratitude to Mr. B (the details of which can be read in the previous book in this series) and have once again invited the Bennets to visit their estate. As much as he values their friendship, Mr. B continues to be reluctant to visit. And it's all because Mrs. Hayter is The One That Got Away.
The Pride and Prejudice story continues to play in the background, and Mr. B is clueless as to what's going on with his Lizzy - he assumes that haughty Mr. Darcy must have been especially irritating when she saw him in Kent.
Absolutely wonderful writing and story-telling. I have many quotes highlighted, and there are many more I COULD have highlighted. Highly recommend.
I've become a huge fan of this author. He perfectly captures both Mr. Bennet's droll sense of humor and his detached attitude towards most of the other inhabitants of his world. Mr. B would rather read, study butterflies, or attend regular meetings with his cronies for cake and conversation than engage in anything else that would require him to exert himself.
Although generally his indolence extends to his parenting, he can't help noticing Jane's low spirits since Mr. Bingley left Netherfield or Elizabeth's odd humor when she returns from her visit to see her friend Charlotte Collins at Hunsford. Moreover, Mary appears to have a tendre for Mr. Spigott, a nondescript local curate who's generally overlooked, much like she is. In the latter case, they seem like a natural fit for each other, but it's a match that Mrs. Bennet is not likely to promote.
Much of this story relates Mr. B's realization of how deeply unhappy his third daughter is with her place in the Bennet household, leading to his own fumbling attempts at matchmaking.
However, the bulk of the tale has to do with Mr. and Mrs. Barton and, in particular, Mrs. Barton's mother, Mrs. Abigail Hayter. The Bartons are quite well off and, as Mrs. Bennet well knows, in an excellent position socially to introduce her daughters to eligible and wealthy gentlemen. The Bartons owe a debt of gratitude to Mr. B (the details of which can be read in the previous book in this series) and have once again invited the Bennets to visit their estate. As much as he values their friendship, Mr. B continues to be reluctant to visit. And it's all because Mrs. Hayter is The One That Got Away.
The Pride and Prejudice story continues to play in the background, and Mr. B is clueless as to what's going on with his Lizzy - he assumes that haughty Mr. Darcy must have been especially irritating when she saw him in Kent.
Absolutely wonderful writing and story-telling. I have many quotes highlighted, and there are many more I COULD have highlighted. Highly recommend.
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November 30, 2020Ah, Mr Bennet. He won't leave my head alone. But at least his pithy comments and wry observations now find their way onto paper and screen. And I've thrown a few challenges his way to remind him that he might want to rethink some of his perspectives on life. There's his solemn promise to Mary, for example: an obligation he cannot ignore. And a voice from the past that reminds him of what might have been, with unforeseen consequences for the entire Bennet family. And the Pride & Prejudice story continuing in the background. How will all these threads turn out? Well, that would be telling...
Publishing a novel despite all 2020 throws at us is a source of joy (and relief) to me. But only possible thanks to the support and encouragement of so many. Thank you, one and all!
Publishing a novel despite all 2020 throws at us is a source of joy (and relief) to me. But only possible thanks to the support and encouragement of so many. Thank you, one and all!
December 8, 2020
Who loves not women, wine, and song, remains a fool his whole life long. ~ German Proverb
Mark Brownlow is a true wordsmith and paints a sympathetic, compassionate portrait of Mr. Bennet. He understands that man.
I love his word pictures:
And give my particular regards to Mr. Collins when you finally reach Hunsford. Say we hope he might visit us again. Though only tell him this if you are certain he will not do so.
I looked across at Mrs. Bennet, who was now busy dismembering a pigeon with all the grace of a drunk buzzard.
Any joy I might have felt in the day skittered away like a cockroach from the light.
A frown seemed to do battle with a tenuous smile on Mary’s face; the frown had the advantage of fighting on familiar territory.
Sir William was a man of few words but many sentences. And fond of capitals.
I am not going to recap the plot. I will just encourage readers to pick up a copy for the characterizations. What a treat!
A bottle of wine begs to be shared; I have never met a miserly wine lover. The social emotions it generates are equidistant from the philatelist's solitary gloating and the football fan's gregarious hysteria. ~ Clifton Fadiman
Mark Brownlow is a true wordsmith and paints a sympathetic, compassionate portrait of Mr. Bennet. He understands that man.
I love his word pictures:
And give my particular regards to Mr. Collins when you finally reach Hunsford. Say we hope he might visit us again. Though only tell him this if you are certain he will not do so.
I looked across at Mrs. Bennet, who was now busy dismembering a pigeon with all the grace of a drunk buzzard.
Any joy I might have felt in the day skittered away like a cockroach from the light.
A frown seemed to do battle with a tenuous smile on Mary’s face; the frown had the advantage of fighting on familiar territory.
Sir William was a man of few words but many sentences. And fond of capitals.
I am not going to recap the plot. I will just encourage readers to pick up a copy for the characterizations. What a treat!
A bottle of wine begs to be shared; I have never met a miserly wine lover. The social emotions it generates are equidistant from the philatelist's solitary gloating and the football fan's gregarious hysteria. ~ Clifton Fadiman
December 2, 2020
As Told by Mr. Bennet
Having read Cake and Courtship (Mr. Bennet’s Memoirs Book 1), I knew I’d be reading this sequel as well. Mr. Brownlow doesn’t disappoint. The writing is impeccable, the turn of many delicious phrases, a reader’s delight. I laughed, I cried, I worried for Mr. Bennet’s honour, but he never disappointed me. This is the Mr. Bennet I love, warts and all.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough and wish I could give it more than five stars for the superb writing skill. Do read both books.
Having read Cake and Courtship (Mr. Bennet’s Memoirs Book 1), I knew I’d be reading this sequel as well. Mr. Brownlow doesn’t disappoint. The writing is impeccable, the turn of many delicious phrases, a reader’s delight. I laughed, I cried, I worried for Mr. Bennet’s honour, but he never disappointed me. This is the Mr. Bennet I love, warts and all.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough and wish I could give it more than five stars for the superb writing skill. Do read both books.
January 5, 2021
I won a copy of not only this book but also the one proceeding it.
This author writes very well. I have to say I even learned the meaning of some new words while reading this story.
Mr. Bennet has a number of concerns being addressed in his memoirs. First he continues to have occasion to meet with the woman from his past...the one he loved and lost. But we read as he contemplates where his feelings towards her now stand. Their conversations over time bring him to admit that he can love and be friends with her but he will act with honor.
Then as a father we read as he attempts to not only pay some attention to and understand Mary but to also matchmake for her. Oh, he tries so hard and uses reasoning and life's experiences. However the man is a curate and has made a vow and has duties to the church. This part of the story is hard to accept. You want to shake the man. Mary is often a neglected figure...will this story end the same?
Then there is Elizabeth. She is out of the picture for most of the story. She has returned from visiting Kent and the Collinses and Mr. Bennet perceives that some is different about her but he can't put his finger on it. Then she goes off with the Gardiners to Derbyshire.
Again, we have Lydia running off with Wickham but as we are reading from Mr. Bennet's POV we follow him as he hunts through London for the couple and as he meets Abigail (his past love) and she ferrets out the problem. When he finally gives up and allows Mr. Gardiner to take over the search the reader is expecting events to follow canon. However, this author has a new twist to that situation.
Throughout this tale James Bennet continues to meet often with his cronies in Meryton for port and various desserts. Their main interest is the collection of various butterflies and insects and they plan a trip to focus on this hobby. Humor is added to our tale as we read of the one man's passion for desserts and another man's interest in Bennet's relationship with his past love.
I highly recommend this story. It keeps your interest and is so well told. I loved reading it from Mr. Bennet's side of the story.
This author writes very well. I have to say I even learned the meaning of some new words while reading this story.
Mr. Bennet has a number of concerns being addressed in his memoirs. First he continues to have occasion to meet with the woman from his past...the one he loved and lost. But we read as he contemplates where his feelings towards her now stand. Their conversations over time bring him to admit that he can love and be friends with her but he will act with honor.
Then as a father we read as he attempts to not only pay some attention to and understand Mary but to also matchmake for her. Oh, he tries so hard and uses reasoning and life's experiences. However the man is a curate and has made a vow and has duties to the church. This part of the story is hard to accept. You want to shake the man. Mary is often a neglected figure...will this story end the same?
Then there is Elizabeth. She is out of the picture for most of the story. She has returned from visiting Kent and the Collinses and Mr. Bennet perceives that some is different about her but he can't put his finger on it. Then she goes off with the Gardiners to Derbyshire.
Again, we have Lydia running off with Wickham but as we are reading from Mr. Bennet's POV we follow him as he hunts through London for the couple and as he meets Abigail (his past love) and she ferrets out the problem. When he finally gives up and allows Mr. Gardiner to take over the search the reader is expecting events to follow canon. However, this author has a new twist to that situation.
Throughout this tale James Bennet continues to meet often with his cronies in Meryton for port and various desserts. Their main interest is the collection of various butterflies and insects and they plan a trip to focus on this hobby. Humor is added to our tale as we read of the one man's passion for desserts and another man's interest in Bennet's relationship with his past love.
I highly recommend this story. It keeps your interest and is so well told. I loved reading it from Mr. Bennet's side of the story.
March 4, 2021
This is such a good book, I'm not sure where to begin, or how much to give away. I don't want to spoil the story. But I learned only after reading it that it's the second in a series. The first is titled Cake and Courtship. I'll have to read that out of order.
This Pride and Prejudice variation is written as if it were a memoir by Mr. Bennet, and is told entirely from his point of view. It begins when his oldest daughter, Jane, is leaving for London, and his next oldest, Elizabeth, is on her way to Kent, to visit Charlotte Collins. I'm not sure I remember the exact timing of these two visits, or whether they are the same as in the original story, but that doesn't matter. The content that is added to the original story matters more.
As a reader who is fond of P&P, I've always wondered about the Bennets' marriage, how it began, whether they were ever in love. This variation proposes an answer to that question, and takes us back in time, by way of Mr. Bennet's memories, to the great love of his life, which happened well before he met his wife. He loved and lost, and then served with the British in the American Revolution, and later married the woman we know as Mrs. Bennet. This book takes us through his encounters with his first love, during the time between Bingley's departure from Netherfield, and the final outcome of P&P, with an added bonus of a great deal about Miss Mary Bennet.
That's all I will say about the story, except to add that it's beautifully written. I felt as if I was inside Mr. Bennet's head, and shared his insights, observations, feelings, and experiences. I almost wanted to go back to the beginning and read it again, as soon as I finished. Highly recommended.
This Pride and Prejudice variation is written as if it were a memoir by Mr. Bennet, and is told entirely from his point of view. It begins when his oldest daughter, Jane, is leaving for London, and his next oldest, Elizabeth, is on her way to Kent, to visit Charlotte Collins. I'm not sure I remember the exact timing of these two visits, or whether they are the same as in the original story, but that doesn't matter. The content that is added to the original story matters more.
As a reader who is fond of P&P, I've always wondered about the Bennets' marriage, how it began, whether they were ever in love. This variation proposes an answer to that question, and takes us back in time, by way of Mr. Bennet's memories, to the great love of his life, which happened well before he met his wife. He loved and lost, and then served with the British in the American Revolution, and later married the woman we know as Mrs. Bennet. This book takes us through his encounters with his first love, during the time between Bingley's departure from Netherfield, and the final outcome of P&P, with an added bonus of a great deal about Miss Mary Bennet.
That's all I will say about the story, except to add that it's beautifully written. I felt as if I was inside Mr. Bennet's head, and shared his insights, observations, feelings, and experiences. I almost wanted to go back to the beginning and read it again, as soon as I finished. Highly recommended.
January 5, 2021
P&P told through Mr. Bennet’s eyes
Kind of a fun story. This Mr. Bennet has a reason for hiding in his library. It doesn’t excuse his parenting but at least gives another excuse for it
Lots of bits of wisdom dropped by him, or at least they seem like wisdom at first hearing.
Ok story for a one time read.
Kind of a fun story. This Mr. Bennet has a reason for hiding in his library. It doesn’t excuse his parenting but at least gives another excuse for it
Lots of bits of wisdom dropped by him, or at least they seem like wisdom at first hearing.
Ok story for a one time read.
November 5, 2021
Despairing Daughters and Reconciling Regrets
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Author
TYPE OF NOVEL: Alternate POV/Pride and Prejudice Variation
NOTE: This is the second book in the Mr. Bennet’s Memoirs series. And even though it is labeled as standalone novel, it is recommended that the first book in this series – Cake and Courtship – be read prior to this book
THE PREMISE:
Gentleman farmer, beleaguered husband, father of five, and devoted member of the Meryton Natural History Society – Mr. Bennet can now add begrudging romantic advisor to his curriculum vitae as he celebrates the success of assisting the son of his dear friend in his courtship dilemmas. But now with one daughter unhappily crossed in love, one acting uncharacteristically reserved, and one suffering from neglect and yearning to be cherished Mr. Bennet has his hands full with not only his daughters’ affairs of the heart, but the resurfacing of his own…
MY THOUGHTS:
Mark Brownlow’s depiction of Mr. Bennet is excellent in all ways. He effortlessly captures Mr. Bennet’s “quick parts, sarcastic humor, reserve, and caprice,” and reveals his fears, flaws, and favored pursuits – which happen to be the study of insects, sponge cake, and port (in no particular order). In this series we witness Mr. Bennet struggle with regret and his failings, yet also strive to honor his word and learn to embrace the joy and good that is present in his life.
I greatly enjoyed Mr. Brownlow’s portrayal of Mr. Bennet, I thought he captured his tone and temper just perfectly. In addition, I loved seeing the events of Pride and Prejudice from Mr. Bennet’s perspective and observing how much he knows or can figure out being on the periphery. I especially enjoyed the rarity of seeing Mr. Bennet’s relationship with Mary in the spotlight in this installment as he tries to know Mary better and help her. I appreciated the honesty and sympathy with which Mr. Brownlow portrayed these two characters. And lastly, I loved each and every scene with the Meryton Natural History Society – this group is so endearing to me and I am so glad Mr. Bennet has his own support group!
I loved that Mr. Brownlow created a past romance for Mr. Bennet, his disappointment and heartbreak brilliantly explain his apathy and imprudent choice of marrying Mrs. Bennet. I appreciated how Mr. Brownlow brought Abigail Hayter back into Mr. Bennet’s life and how he portrayed all the anguish, challenges, and conflicting emotions of their encounters. However, I must admit I was not as endeared to Abigail Hayter as I wanted to be in this installment. I don’t know if I am missing some details or maybe I forgot something of import from the first book, but I thought she was a little bit unreasonable towards Mr. Bennet with her expectations and anger. It felt like she placed full culpability on Mr. Bennet for their past and I don’t feel that it is warranted. And instead of admiring his loyalty and honor, she seems to despise him for possessing such merits and believes him cowardly.
Despite my quibbles about Mrs. Hayter, I took vast pleasure in this splendidly thoughtful, perceptive, and unvarnished look at Mr. Bennet, and I thoroughly enjoyed all the time spent with such a dear and quirky man. Mr. Brownlow writes with exceptional skill, understanding, and eloquence. It is my sincere hope we see him publish more novels of this nature in the future!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Author
TYPE OF NOVEL: Alternate POV/Pride and Prejudice Variation
NOTE: This is the second book in the Mr. Bennet’s Memoirs series. And even though it is labeled as standalone novel, it is recommended that the first book in this series – Cake and Courtship – be read prior to this book
THE PREMISE:
Gentleman farmer, beleaguered husband, father of five, and devoted member of the Meryton Natural History Society – Mr. Bennet can now add begrudging romantic advisor to his curriculum vitae as he celebrates the success of assisting the son of his dear friend in his courtship dilemmas. But now with one daughter unhappily crossed in love, one acting uncharacteristically reserved, and one suffering from neglect and yearning to be cherished Mr. Bennet has his hands full with not only his daughters’ affairs of the heart, but the resurfacing of his own…
MY THOUGHTS:
Mark Brownlow’s depiction of Mr. Bennet is excellent in all ways. He effortlessly captures Mr. Bennet’s “quick parts, sarcastic humor, reserve, and caprice,” and reveals his fears, flaws, and favored pursuits – which happen to be the study of insects, sponge cake, and port (in no particular order). In this series we witness Mr. Bennet struggle with regret and his failings, yet also strive to honor his word and learn to embrace the joy and good that is present in his life.
I greatly enjoyed Mr. Brownlow’s portrayal of Mr. Bennet, I thought he captured his tone and temper just perfectly. In addition, I loved seeing the events of Pride and Prejudice from Mr. Bennet’s perspective and observing how much he knows or can figure out being on the periphery. I especially enjoyed the rarity of seeing Mr. Bennet’s relationship with Mary in the spotlight in this installment as he tries to know Mary better and help her. I appreciated the honesty and sympathy with which Mr. Brownlow portrayed these two characters. And lastly, I loved each and every scene with the Meryton Natural History Society – this group is so endearing to me and I am so glad Mr. Bennet has his own support group!
I loved that Mr. Brownlow created a past romance for Mr. Bennet, his disappointment and heartbreak brilliantly explain his apathy and imprudent choice of marrying Mrs. Bennet. I appreciated how Mr. Brownlow brought Abigail Hayter back into Mr. Bennet’s life and how he portrayed all the anguish, challenges, and conflicting emotions of their encounters. However, I must admit I was not as endeared to Abigail Hayter as I wanted to be in this installment. I don’t know if I am missing some details or maybe I forgot something of import from the first book, but I thought she was a little bit unreasonable towards Mr. Bennet with her expectations and anger. It felt like she placed full culpability on Mr. Bennet for their past and I don’t feel that it is warranted. And instead of admiring his loyalty and honor, she seems to despise him for possessing such merits and believes him cowardly.
Despite my quibbles about Mrs. Hayter, I took vast pleasure in this splendidly thoughtful, perceptive, and unvarnished look at Mr. Bennet, and I thoroughly enjoyed all the time spent with such a dear and quirky man. Mr. Brownlow writes with exceptional skill, understanding, and eloquence. It is my sincere hope we see him publish more novels of this nature in the future!
Austenesque Reviews
November 28, 2020
Mark Brownlow's second installment of the memoirs of Mr. Bennet expertly dovetails with Pride & Prejudice -- we follow the familiar and beloved story, but this time through the eyes of Mr. Bennet. Brownlow really captures Mr. Bennet's sardonic wit, and we learn more about the youthful disappointment in love that shaped his character and made him into the person he is. The story adds depth and sympathy to the characters of Mr. Bennet, Mrs. Bennet, and especially Mary, the plain and awkward middle daughter of the family. Brownlow's narration is poetic, intimate and evocative. There are beautiful descriptive passages which bring the settings alive, and lovely flashes of wit throughout. I mentioned how well the book intertwines with Pride & Prejudice -- for example, we fans of Pride & Prejudice know that Elizabeth learns that Wickham is a cad, but she and Jane decide not to tell anyone. The way Brownlow describes their behaviour, as observed by Mr. Bennet, is masterful.
This novel is an outstanding, intelligent, homage to the world Austen created.
This novel is an outstanding, intelligent, homage to the world Austen created.
December 8, 2020
Avid Reader
I enjoyed Mr. Bennet 's first memoir, but the writer outdid himself with this one! A list love is an excellent excuse for Mr. Bennet 's sarcasm and indolence. I never felt that he loved Mrs. Bennet and barely tolerated her. Mrs. Hayter forced him to face their past. She also had herself to blame for their lost . As she said, she played a game and lost leaving both of them pining for each other. Mr. Bennet realized that he had not been a good father to Mary and tries to make amends, but it is Mr. Darcy who helps being happiness to Mary.
I enjoyed Mr. Bennet 's first memoir, but the writer outdid himself with this one! A list love is an excellent excuse for Mr. Bennet 's sarcasm and indolence. I never felt that he loved Mrs. Bennet and barely tolerated her. Mrs. Hayter forced him to face their past. She also had herself to blame for their lost . As she said, she played a game and lost leaving both of them pining for each other. Mr. Bennet realized that he had not been a good father to Mary and tries to make amends, but it is Mr. Darcy who helps being happiness to Mary.
March 15, 2021
3.5* rounded up to 4
This is a finely written book, by an author with a unique view point and voice for P&P variations.
However, I had really difficult time liking it.
I found Abigail both arrogant and annoying, in her self righteousness. How dare she force a man (who she admits she knows is suffering) to admit feelings which would betray everything he himself chose - his wife and daughters!
On top of that, throughout the whole book is a morose undertone, which to me spoke not of melancholy for what was lost, but self pity for something lost almost 30 years ago.
Mr. Bennet throws a pity party lasting his whole adult life to the detriment of his wife (as foolish as she is) and all his 5 children. That is 6 innocent human beings suffering over and over again for his constant self pity. He not only gave up on his own happiness, but took the choice of a better life away from his whole family every single day that he chose to hide in his library wallowing, instead of choosing every single day to make a difference in the lives of the 5 girls he was a participant in, in bringing in to his world!
Perhaps the author did his job by making me feel so strongly, even if it was not his original intention, but this book left me with a sense of extreme dissatisfaction. Despite the happy ending achieved for 3 of his 5 children (through almost no effort of his).
This is a finely written book, by an author with a unique view point and voice for P&P variations.
However, I had really difficult time liking it.
I found Abigail both arrogant and annoying, in her self righteousness. How dare she force a man (who she admits she knows is suffering) to admit feelings which would betray everything he himself chose - his wife and daughters!
On top of that, throughout the whole book is a morose undertone, which to me spoke not of melancholy for what was lost, but self pity for something lost almost 30 years ago.
Mr. Bennet throws a pity party lasting his whole adult life to the detriment of his wife (as foolish as she is) and all his 5 children. That is 6 innocent human beings suffering over and over again for his constant self pity. He not only gave up on his own happiness, but took the choice of a better life away from his whole family every single day that he chose to hide in his library wallowing, instead of choosing every single day to make a difference in the lives of the 5 girls he was a participant in, in bringing in to his world!
Perhaps the author did his job by making me feel so strongly, even if it was not his original intention, but this book left me with a sense of extreme dissatisfaction. Despite the happy ending achieved for 3 of his 5 children (through almost no effort of his).
October 17, 2022
In truth it was a 4.5 for me. I added this to my TBR challenge as it has long settled around my kindles and been too often passed over, but I do not know that I ever read the blurb, just knew that I wanted to read it with so many people I enjoy the reviews of giving it 5 stars! I was not prepared for this story, so, I confess that I initially did not find it that entertaining. And while I saw the timeline and more, I did not see the...point...for lack of a better word. I found myself thinking that no man spends so very much time talking of another woman he loves with so very many people, and it was a dozen, perhaps more, when he proclaims he wishes to honor his wife even if he cannot love her, especially when so many of them surround said wife. But then the story for Mary became more important, and then...right around the moment where he and his lady love had tea and sponge cake as he was in London trying to find Lydia that I loved the "secret" romance everyone knew about. And then there was all of that good for the daughters and the perfect moment shared at their wedding? Yes, a great, feel-good ending and I am very glad I added it to my challenge list!
January 3, 2021
Lovely
This second part of Mr Bennet's memoirs provides equal if not surpassing delights to the first. The events of Pride and Prejudice happen largely off stage but his own journey through regrets, shame at his own faults and ultimate quiet redemption ( for both himself and Mary) provide the foreground of a fresh story in its own right. Sterling stuff Mr B ( both Bennet and Brownlow) !
This second part of Mr Bennet's memoirs provides equal if not surpassing delights to the first. The events of Pride and Prejudice happen largely off stage but his own journey through regrets, shame at his own faults and ultimate quiet redemption ( for both himself and Mary) provide the foreground of a fresh story in its own right. Sterling stuff Mr B ( both Bennet and Brownlow) !
April 11, 2021
I am so impressed by this book, and its predecessor, Cakes and Courtship.
First of all, it is truly rare for an author to choose Mr Bennet as the main/viewpoint character. I truly cannot think of another JAFF that does so, and I have read a LOT of them, so points to Mr. Brownlow for imagination and creativity.
Secondly, as a person in my sixties myself, I deeply appreciate that Mr. Brownlow knows what so many romance writers forget: that people in their older years still think about and need love. And it's deeply nuanced: not just 'I loved and lost years ago, and now I'm in an unsatisfactory situation." Mr. Bennet must search his own heart and--to my delight, as it's an astute echo of the original text of Pride and Prejudice--come to understand how his own character and behavior have been wanting. He must wrestle deeply with what he must do to weigh the concerns of his loneliness against his own personal honor.
Brownlow also shows his sophistication as a writer through several conversations between Lizzie and Mr. Bennet, after Lizzie has come back from Hunsford, where Lizzie provides subtle reactions to things that Mr. Bennet says (as a result of his own painful inner reflections) that in turn reflect her inner transformation in the aftermath of Darcy's first disastrous proposal--clues that the reader can enjoy yet Mr. Bennet entirely misunderstands or misses.
In my opinion, Brownlow keeps his version of Mr. Bennet completely within Austen's characterization, and yet he provides a new, delightful depth and added undercurrent of meaning to characters, relationships, and the original story. He gives Mr. Bennet an interesting and sympathetic inner life which offers entirely in-character motivation for his decisions and (in)actions during Pride and Prejudice. Mr. Bennet's character arc, in turn, acts as a new and interesting foil to the story of Lizzie and Darcy.
Finally, I wish to comment about my genuine enjoyment of Mr. Bennet's wit as Brownlow has written him. I have been thinking a lot about the art of writing wit, because I'm in the process of picking up my third novel again and wrestling with the problem of writing a character who is exemplified by his wit--and personally I find it VERY difficult technically to do. Here, I think Brownlow truly shines, and the book is replete with examples, like a box stuffed with chocolates. Brownlow can take the simplest of situations and make them remarkably droll--I found myself laughing out loud at a conversation about potatoes, for example. He uses some of the same tricks that Austen uses, such taking something that Mrs Bennet says, having Mr. Bennet agree with it, and then adding a wry twist to it that Mrs Bennet doesn't quite grasp and managing both to convey his greater intelligence, slight contempt, and sense of humor. It both makes the reader laugh out loud while simultaneously rendering the uneasy feeling that not all is as it should be in Mr. and Mrs. Bennet's marriage.
Mrs. Bennet: "I am not one to grumble, mind. Never once have I complained on that score."
"How very true," I [Mr. Bennet] said. "You have never complained once. Nearer a hundred times would be my estimate."
Like Cakes and Courtships, I plan to take Port and Proposals out often in the future for 'occupation for an idle hour, and consolation in a distressed one,'... and all my faculties will be roused into admiration and respect.
First of all, it is truly rare for an author to choose Mr Bennet as the main/viewpoint character. I truly cannot think of another JAFF that does so, and I have read a LOT of them, so points to Mr. Brownlow for imagination and creativity.
Secondly, as a person in my sixties myself, I deeply appreciate that Mr. Brownlow knows what so many romance writers forget: that people in their older years still think about and need love. And it's deeply nuanced: not just 'I loved and lost years ago, and now I'm in an unsatisfactory situation." Mr. Bennet must search his own heart and--to my delight, as it's an astute echo of the original text of Pride and Prejudice--come to understand how his own character and behavior have been wanting. He must wrestle deeply with what he must do to weigh the concerns of his loneliness against his own personal honor.
Brownlow also shows his sophistication as a writer through several conversations between Lizzie and Mr. Bennet, after Lizzie has come back from Hunsford, where Lizzie provides subtle reactions to things that Mr. Bennet says (as a result of his own painful inner reflections) that in turn reflect her inner transformation in the aftermath of Darcy's first disastrous proposal--clues that the reader can enjoy yet Mr. Bennet entirely misunderstands or misses.
In my opinion, Brownlow keeps his version of Mr. Bennet completely within Austen's characterization, and yet he provides a new, delightful depth and added undercurrent of meaning to characters, relationships, and the original story. He gives Mr. Bennet an interesting and sympathetic inner life which offers entirely in-character motivation for his decisions and (in)actions during Pride and Prejudice. Mr. Bennet's character arc, in turn, acts as a new and interesting foil to the story of Lizzie and Darcy.
Finally, I wish to comment about my genuine enjoyment of Mr. Bennet's wit as Brownlow has written him. I have been thinking a lot about the art of writing wit, because I'm in the process of picking up my third novel again and wrestling with the problem of writing a character who is exemplified by his wit--and personally I find it VERY difficult technically to do. Here, I think Brownlow truly shines, and the book is replete with examples, like a box stuffed with chocolates. Brownlow can take the simplest of situations and make them remarkably droll--I found myself laughing out loud at a conversation about potatoes, for example. He uses some of the same tricks that Austen uses, such taking something that Mrs Bennet says, having Mr. Bennet agree with it, and then adding a wry twist to it that Mrs Bennet doesn't quite grasp and managing both to convey his greater intelligence, slight contempt, and sense of humor. It both makes the reader laugh out loud while simultaneously rendering the uneasy feeling that not all is as it should be in Mr. and Mrs. Bennet's marriage.
Mrs. Bennet: "I am not one to grumble, mind. Never once have I complained on that score."
"How very true," I [Mr. Bennet] said. "You have never complained once. Nearer a hundred times would be my estimate."
Like Cakes and Courtships, I plan to take Port and Proposals out often in the future for 'occupation for an idle hour, and consolation in a distressed one,'... and all my faculties will be roused into admiration and respect.
January 21, 2021
Rare and wonderful
I sincerely hope that this author continues to write JAFF. What a talent! It's such a gift to read work created by a clever, intelligent, imaginative and humorous writer. This sequel to Cake and Courtship continues the first person account of Mr Bennett, who turns out to be a fascinating, albeit an extremely flawed man, who studies insects and the human condition, with an emphasis on matchmaking. In the first book of this set, he attempted to help a close family friend who needed guidance in his love life. In this book, Mr Bennett is still advising people on their hearts, but this time his efforts are closer to home, namely Mary Bennett.
All fans of P&P know that Mr Bennett is a poor father and an indifferent husband, but also that he has a wry and sarcastic sense of humor. Since he narrates the story, we're treated to the full extent of his sarcasm and self deprecation, and the author manages to do him full justice, and at the same time, make him endearing. Mr Bennett is fully exposed, his backstory is revealed, and his lifetime of experiences, good and bad, are laid bare, all while the events in P&P are occurring in the background. Who would have ever thought that Mr Bennett would be so much fun?
I have to stand in awe at the crafting of a story that is so completely original, and so perfectly clever. I almost hope that the author will continue this theme until the entire Bennett family is disposed of, just because I hate for my enjoyment to end. The writing is masterful, the humor sublime, and the insights into humanity are profound. I hope Mr Brownlow will give us another very soon. I recommend this book highly.
I sincerely hope that this author continues to write JAFF. What a talent! It's such a gift to read work created by a clever, intelligent, imaginative and humorous writer. This sequel to Cake and Courtship continues the first person account of Mr Bennett, who turns out to be a fascinating, albeit an extremely flawed man, who studies insects and the human condition, with an emphasis on matchmaking. In the first book of this set, he attempted to help a close family friend who needed guidance in his love life. In this book, Mr Bennett is still advising people on their hearts, but this time his efforts are closer to home, namely Mary Bennett.
All fans of P&P know that Mr Bennett is a poor father and an indifferent husband, but also that he has a wry and sarcastic sense of humor. Since he narrates the story, we're treated to the full extent of his sarcasm and self deprecation, and the author manages to do him full justice, and at the same time, make him endearing. Mr Bennett is fully exposed, his backstory is revealed, and his lifetime of experiences, good and bad, are laid bare, all while the events in P&P are occurring in the background. Who would have ever thought that Mr Bennett would be so much fun?
I have to stand in awe at the crafting of a story that is so completely original, and so perfectly clever. I almost hope that the author will continue this theme until the entire Bennett family is disposed of, just because I hate for my enjoyment to end. The writing is masterful, the humor sublime, and the insights into humanity are profound. I hope Mr Brownlow will give us another very soon. I recommend this book highly.
January 19, 2025
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is part two of a two part series called ‘Mr Bennett’s Memoirs’, where each is a standalone story, but this story is considered a sequel to part one. This story presents a Pride and Prejudice variation full of Mr Bennet's wit and wisdom that plays out against the backdrop of Vols II and III of Jane Austen’s famous novel.
All Mr Bennet wants to do is read books, eat cake, and study butterflies, but life has other plans for him in this Regency tale of love, regret, and second chances. Family troubles and a promise to his middle daughter, Mary, force our father of five out of his library to deal with reticent bachelors, stubborn curates, and glib officers. Though his greatest challenge may be to face up to a past he cannot seem to forget. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is part two of a two part series called ‘Mr Bennett’s Memoirs’, where each is a standalone story, but this story is considered a sequel to part one. This story presents a Pride and Prejudice variation full of Mr Bennet's wit and wisdom that plays out against the backdrop of Vols II and III of Jane Austen’s famous novel.
All Mr Bennet wants to do is read books, eat cake, and study butterflies, but life has other plans for him in this Regency tale of love, regret, and second chances. Family troubles and a promise to his middle daughter, Mary, force our father of five out of his library to deal with reticent bachelors, stubborn curates, and glib officers. Though his greatest challenge may be to face up to a past he cannot seem to forget. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
January 22, 2021
This second book in Brownlow’s ‘Mr. Bennet’s Memoirs’ is very moving. It deepens Brownlow’s study of the new characters introduced in the first book, as well as the familiar P&P cast whose travails feature a bit more centrally in this book than the previous one. Brownlow does two things extremely well. He weaves the new aspects of his plot cleverly and seamlessly within the possibilities left open by the passage of time in between the events in the original P&P. And he paints a full and very human picture of a Mr. Bennet forced to concede defeat at the hands of his own lifelong deficient parenting, and one who yet finds the strength to attempt to do right by those he loves, including his wife,
March 5, 2021
An amazing series
This series is all seen through Mr Bennett's eyes. His grief over a lost love has colored his whole life. He is moved to help the son of a man who had saved his life during the war over in the American colonies.
I love his circle of friends that his love for butterflies & cake
It is not always a comfortable read, as he continues to be a lax father & indifferent husband but it is a rich story with wonderful new characters.
This series is all seen through Mr Bennett's eyes. His grief over a lost love has colored his whole life. He is moved to help the son of a man who had saved his life during the war over in the American colonies.
I love his circle of friends that his love for butterflies & cake
It is not always a comfortable read, as he continues to be a lax father & indifferent husband but it is a rich story with wonderful new characters.
April 19, 2021
Definitely worth a read.
What is there not to enjoy? A well written and edited book. A compelling read from a perspective that is rarely thought about. Mr Bennet is a pivotal character in the book because if he hadn't been the character he was, much of the original story would not have happened the way it did. I very much enjoyed looking at things from Mr Bennet's perspective. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.
What is there not to enjoy? A well written and edited book. A compelling read from a perspective that is rarely thought about. Mr Bennet is a pivotal character in the book because if he hadn't been the character he was, much of the original story would not have happened the way it did. I very much enjoyed looking at things from Mr Bennet's perspective. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.
April 13, 2023
It's probably just me but I found this to be a rather depressing read.
Mr. Bennet depends the entire book (as far as I got, which was 80% or so) moaning about the woman he loved and lost long before he met Fanny Gardiner. The most attention he pays to his family is when he thinks that, although he hasn't provided for their future, once he's dead, he won't have to listen to them complain about it.
DNF
Mr. Bennet depends the entire book (as far as I got, which was 80% or so) moaning about the woman he loved and lost long before he met Fanny Gardiner. The most attention he pays to his family is when he thinks that, although he hasn't provided for their future, once he's dead, he won't have to listen to them complain about it.
DNF
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2021
What a delight!!
The whit Of Mr. Bennett Combined with a very introspective Mr. Bennett and all of his interactions with his friends and family and neighbors Make this A truly delightful retelling of our beloved Pride and Prejudice
The whit Of Mr. Bennett Combined with a very introspective Mr. Bennett and all of his interactions with his friends and family and neighbors Make this A truly delightful retelling of our beloved Pride and Prejudice
April 13, 2022
I thoroughly enjoy this
Thank you for Mary, and for tears . Mr Bennett's story is one no two I shall read again. There is little in this dealing with Lizzy or Jane but there are fun surprises and many happy endings
Thank you for Mary, and for tears . Mr Bennett's story is one no two I shall read again. There is little in this dealing with Lizzy or Jane but there are fun surprises and many happy endings
December 4, 2020
Different
I read this book with a prejudiced eye. Mr Bennett is always a source of information and some of this is from knowing great father. He nevertheless gives a good read.
I read this book with a prejudiced eye. Mr Bennett is always a source of information and some of this is from knowing great father. He nevertheless gives a good read.
April 8, 2021
Very entertaining and well-written spin on P&P. Great characterisation - I love this Mr Bennett!
August 17, 2021
I even bought both books!!!
Loved both books. Since I have Kindle Unlimited I didn't have to buy these two books. But I want to read them again and again.
Loved both books. Since I have Kindle Unlimited I didn't have to buy these two books. But I want to read them again and again.
September 19, 2022
Book 2 in the series. Well done. Both nuanced and frank. Excellent dialogue. I enjoyed it.
January 14, 2021
To be honest I don't know Pride and Prejudice well enough to get all the allusions and jokes, but this book can be read as a standalone story, and it's packed full of humour, well-rounded characters, and wry observation. The author cleverly recreates the atmosphere of Pride and Prejudice, and gives the characters well developed and amusing dialog, including several laugh-out-loud moments. There's plenty of port (and pies) and enough proposals and marriages to keep any father happy. I was lucky enough to receive a copy of this book, and I recommend it to anyone interested in the books of Jane Austen.
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