Member Reviews

When I received an email to read the third installment in the Mr. Darcy & Miss Tilney series, I could not contain my excitement. I put off reading this book because I wanted to savor each moment and not speed read through it. After the conclusion of The Late Mrs. Willoughby I could not wait to get back to this series and especially to see the relationship between Mr. Darcy & Miss Tilney. This book did not disappoint!

The distinction of this book where a murder has not occured was so interesting to follow and to try and stay abreast of who the potential suspect(s) could be. The characterizations of other beloved characters from Jane Austen's books was also so igood I can see some people taking issue with how some characters aged with time, but I think Gray did such an interesting job with it. The addition of the father figures left for fun banter, although the prejudices coming up during the story had me wonder how our two protagonists would fare.

The friendship and budding romance is there and the slow burn development is so good, it hurts. I enjoyed following this mystery and cannot wait to see what comes next. Thank you Netgalley and Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor/Vintage for an eARC for an honest review!

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Some Jane Austen fans are absolute purists and read only her original works. Others enjoy various iterations of Austen’s stories. For those in the latter category, this series by Claudia Gray is a lot of fun. The newest title featuring Lady Catherine de Bourgh is the third book and it is delightful.

The premise of the series is that a son of Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett, and a young woman, Juliet Tilney, with connections to Northanger Abbey, solve cases together. They make for a charming (if not yet romantic) couple as they go about their work.

Credit to this author for her wittiness and her clever use of existing Austen characters along with the ones that she, herself, has added to the mix. In addition, she has created a good plot.

Will Lady Catherine be alive at the end of this title? Pick it up to find out.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor for this title. All opinions are my own.

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Love love LOVE this series, I hope Ms. Grey continues to write more. Miss Tilney and Mr. Darcy are at it again, although this time trying to figure out who is TRYING to kill Catherine De Bough (which, if you've read Pride and Prejudice, seriously, who WOULDN'T be?). This one took a bit of a different narrative tack, having the narrator disclose a few things that the characters are not aware of, which I thought was interesting and keeping in the spirit of the other books. The mystery was well-written and I had no idea who it was until it was revealed. Such clever stories with some of my favorite characters. And Lizzy made an appearance! She is so reasonable

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Stars: 4.5

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC

When I saw this on NetGalley, I couldn’t push the request button fast enough. Then I just prayed to the publishing gods that they would give me this ARC. Thankfully, dear reader, my gods were with me and in no time, I had this downloaded straight to the Kindle. I was able to read The Late Mrs. Willoughby last year, the second in the mystery series featuring Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney, the children Pemberely and Northanger Abbey. Two young people who always seem to be around to help solve a murder.

In the latest installment, there actually has not been a murder yet, instead there have been a few attempts on the life of Jonathan’s great aunt, the imperious Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Lady Catherine has summoned Jonathan and his father as well as Juliet and her father to Rosing Park and charges them with finding her possible assassin, and quickly. So Jonathan and Juliet begin their investigation and the reader is reintroduced to Mr. Collins, Charlotte Lucas Collins, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Anne de Bourgh, as well as the Collins’ two children, Katy (Catherine) and Deb (deBourgh). Jonathan and Juliet eventually figure out who was trying to snuff out Lady Catherine but along the way they grow closer and reaffirm within themselves the warm feelings they have for each other. We also get to see Mr. Darcy being imperious and Elizabeth Bennett reminding him of his prideful ways.

There are many books that have taken the world of Austen and imagined what happened after all the characters' stories ended but it is a fine balance to keep the original ethos of the time while appealing to the modern reader. Claudia Gray walks this tightrope so well; the dialogue and emotions expressed (or not as the case may be) between the characters feels appropriate to the nineteenth century but she moves the story along with a twenty-first century prose that keeps the reader fully engaged with the story. I’m just in love with this series, I can’t wait for the next installment (though I am guessing it will be awhile) and I hope that maybe our next visit might be to Hartfield?

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I love this series, and every installment just reinforces why I fell in love with the first book so much.

Jonathan and Juliet continue to be a couple that you just can't help but root for, in both their investigations and their affection for each other. The more they encounter further characters from the Austen world, the more I love how Claudia Gray continued their stories, even if they continue somewhat tragically. One of the most poignant things in this novel in particular is the relationships between both Anne and Fitzwilliam, and Elizabeth and Charlotte. I'll freely admit that these were not relationships that I devoted a lot of thought to in their own novel, but the way that Gray shows how both a romantic and platonic relationship deepen and change over time was really heartfelt.

The humor, the mystery, and the characters are all firing on all cylinders and I can't wait to see what the next book brings.

ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Another delightful installment in an equally delightful series, The Perils of Lady Catherine de Bourgh finds young Miss Tilney and Mr. Darcy summoned to Rosings Park. Lady Catherine has survived several attempts on her life and Juliet and Jonathan must solve the mystery. Claudia Gray writes the Austen characters remarkably well and this features not only the formidable Lady Catherine but everyone's favorite cousin, Mr. Collins.

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The Perils of Lady Catherine de Bourgh
by Claudia Gray
Pub Date: Jun 18 2024

The third book in the Mr. Darcy & Miss Tilney Mystery series, which finds the amateur sleuths facing their most daunting challenge yet: preventing the murder of the imperious Lady Catherine de Bourgh.

Someone is trying to kill Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Esteemed aunt of Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, generous patroness of Mr. William Collins, a woman of rank who rules over the estate of Rosings Park with an unimpeachable sense of propriety—who would dare? Lady Catherine summons her grand-nephew, Mr. Jonathan Darcy, and his investigative companion, Miss Juliet Tilney, to find out.

After a year apart, Jonathan and Juliet are thrilled to be reunited, even if the circumstances—finding whoever has thus far sabotaged Lady Catherine's carriage, shot at her, and nearly pushed her down the stairs—are less than ideal. Also less than ideal: their respective fathers, Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy and Mr. Henry Tilney, have accompanied the young detectives to Rosings, and the two men do not interact with the same felicity enjoyed by their children.

With attempts against Lady Catherine escalating, and no one among the list of prime suspects seemingly capable of committing all of the attacks, the pressure on Jonathan and Juliet mounts—even as more gentle feelings between the two of them begin to bloom. The race is now on to provoke two confessions: one from

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Thank you to Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage and Anchor for the ARC via NetGalley of The Perils of Lady Catherine de Bourgh in exchange for an honest review. This was a fun one, and a welcome entry in a consistently great series.

Putting a new twist on something as long lived as Jane Austen is no easy feat, but Claudia Gray does it time and time again. In her third outing, Jonathan Darcy (son of Pride and Prejudice’s Elizabeth and Darcy) and Juliet Tilney (daughter of Henry and Catherine of Northanger Abbey) are brought together under the most mysterious of circumstances. Someone has tried to kill Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Darcy’s wealthy and esteemed aunt, with no clear suspect easily placeable. Accompanying Jonathan and Juliet are their fathers, who are less thrilled than they are to be reunited. And after so long apart, Jonathan and Juliet can’t help but feel a familiar pull to one another, pondering whether they might be due their own Austen epic love story.

I’ll be honest in saying that I’ve yet to read any of Jane Austen’s original works, but have seen countless adaptations of every story. Gray’s ability to bring these characters to the page in a way that feels both fresh and modern and deeply faithful is superb, reimagining relationships and ties with a deft, thoughtful hand. When in her world, there’s no question of the creative twist on classics; everything seems in place as if it has always been that way.

Now in a position to prevent a murder instead of solve one, the investigation grows increasingly frustrating for the young protagonists of the story. Like the latter novels, the pacing is at times slow and steady, making time to explore characters and the setting thoroughly. This didn’t bother me as I enjoy the interactions as much as anything else. Jonathan and Juliet’s relationship is the throughline of the series, but gains little speed here, leaving the reader with great anticipation for a follow up. Love, as it turns out, isn’t always as easy to solve as murder. I suppose some things are worth waiting for.

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These books just get better and better! This is my favorite so far.
Juliet and Jonathan are finally reunited to solve another mystery! And this time their victim isn’t dead yet. But it is Lady Catherine de Bourgh herself! And the OG Mr Darcy and Mr Henry Tilney have tagged along to supervise their children. We also see many of our Pride & Prejudice favs like Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr & Mrs Collins, Anne de Bourgh (now Fitzwilliam!), and we get a small appearance from Elizabeth Darcy too!
There’s a lot more humor in this book. How can there not be with Lady Catherine and Mr Collins! Henry Tilney, for how little page time he actually gets, proves why he’s my favorite Austen hero.
Not all is fun and laughs of course. There are sad moments and storylines. Red herrings ABOUND with everyone seeming to have a motive to attack Lady Catherine at some point. Due to this, I really was surprised by the culprit.
Of course we’re really all here for Juliet and Jonathan. They continue to see even more roadblocks for a potential relationship due to the interference of their fathers. I think the potential couple made more progress on understanding each other though, so I hold out hope! I can’t wait for another installment!

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the preview. All opinions are my own.

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They author does a great job of continuing the lives of Jane Austen's characters. I enjoy the mystery and the progression of the romance between Mr. Darcy and Miss Tilney.

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This was not my favorite of the three so far, mostly because Lady Catherine DeBourgh is not nearly as esteemed as Collins would like me to believe. She's kind of a bitch. So seeing her constantly threatened with near death wasn't too hard to witness. If Janie girl could do anything, it was make characters you hate (Willoughby, Wickham, Lady Catherine). But this was well written, made me love Juliet Tilney even more, and confirmed my beliefs that Charlotte Collins is not to be trifled with.

Also, apropos of nothing, pay your employees what they're worth. Just saying.

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Being a huge Austen fan, I've super enjoyed this series so far. This story takes us to Rosings Park and the ostentatious Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Fair warning, this book - like its predecessors - is written from several POVs - in some ways omniscient - which is similar to Austen's original style. I really liked that approach!

As to the plot. I can't really say much because of spoilers but I love Jonathan and Juliet. I appreciate the author penning a neurodivergent hero and the heroine being not only warmly accepting of Jonathan but also encouraging him to be himself. That was truly beautiful to me.

The mystery was interesting, and the resolution unraveled nicely. I'm excited for the next story!

I was provided a copy of this story. All opinions are my own.

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I am so excited for this new release of Claudia Gray’s! The Jonathan and Juliet mystery series has been such an enjoyable ride. I love getting to see where beloved characters have ended up. Gray perfectly emulates Jane Austen’s style—the inner monologues of various characters, the wit, and the charm.

Gray is spot on with her characters. She knows Austen’s players so well that every thought and action feels like exactly what they would do. The redemption arcs of certain characters, such as Anne and Colonel Fitzwilliam, are so satisfying! The ebb and flow of the friendship of Elizabeth and Charlotte felt so true and relatable. Also, I am surprised by how much I enjoy watching Elizabeth and Darcy parent.

The mystery of who was behind the attempts on Lady de Bourgh’s life was good. It was intriguing but I kept wondering if Gray was going to stick the landing. The ending was adequately satisfying but what really shines is the romance of Jonathan and Juliet. My heart soars with them and their young love. The genuine friendship and enjoyment of each other is perfectly sweet. I could read these two do just about anything! Hoping there are many more books in this series in the future! Would keep reading until Jonathan and Juliet grow old together!

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This is the 3rd in a series of mysteries set in the P&P universe.. The sleuths are Jonathan Darcy, the son of Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy and Juliet Tilney, daughter of a minister and writer. The characters are true to the ones we met in Pride & Prejudice. Attempts have been made to kill Lady Catherine and she asks her great nephew and Miss Tilney. The start clumsy and escalate in seriousness as the book evolves. Jonathan Darcy is "odd" for the times due to his tics and hyper-focus. Juliet is "odd" for having an interest in solving murders. Most of the characters could plausibly be the perpetrator the way the book is written. Juliet and Jonathan are interested in courting one another, but are thwarted at every turn. I have not read the 1st two books in the series,but could enjoy this book.

I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

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Another fun take on a historical mystery…
One of my favorite Austen works is Pride and Prejudice so it really shouldn’t be a surprise that I have enjoyed this series so much. Gray has managed what others have strived for; to bring our favorite characters back to life in ways that we imagine them to be while also introducing new characters, such as their children, without missing a beat. She takes us on another adventure with our favorite sleuths, Juliet Tilney and the young Mr. Darcy.

Miss Tilney and Mr. Darcy are urgently called to Rosings Park to assist with solving who has been making attempts on the life of Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Mr. Darcy’s great aunt. And she is just how you remember her for the original! As with all mysteries, there are many suspects to keep us guessing who is behind the attempts. Get ready for more memorable characters from the original Austen story!

Compared to the previous two books in this series, the build was a bit slow and that is likely because they previously had to solve murders that were already committed vs. trying to prevent one from happening.

I appreciate Gray’s build of characters and their relationships with each other. I especially love the development of the young Mr. Darcy, his realness that is often overlooked during these times, and the dynamic between him and Juliet. I’m hopeful for a book 4 to see where this all leads…
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and advance copy of The Perils of Lady Catherine de Bourgh!
4.5 Stars

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As someone who has 9 different copies of Pride and Prejudice I really appreciate anything that revolves around Jane Austin’s world. I very much enjoyed this interpretation and I highly recommend it.

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I love this series! I am really looking forward to the next book that Claudia writes to continue the story of Juliet and Mr. Darcy.
In this book, Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney are called to the home of Jonathan's great aunt because someone is trying to kill her. His great aunt has heard of their success in their previous investigations so she has summoned them to help her.
His great aunt is a very demanding women and is very out spoken so it is not unusual that there could be quite a few possible culprits. As Juliet and Jonathan begin their investigation it is disturbing to them that they are not making progress. The suspect line continues to grow, they have no theories and the madam is still in danger. But their clever minds and ability to work together will provide a wonderful outcome.

The book takes the reader on a roller coaster ride as the search for the potential murderer proceeds. But through all the twists and turns Juliet and Jonathan continue to work until they solve the mystery of who is trying to kill her ladyship.

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for an opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

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Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney return to investigate another potential murder. Jonathan's great-aunt summons the pair to figure out who wants to kill her. There is a host of suspects, many of which we've met in Austin's original works.

I enjoyed the mystery, the setting, and the characters. I especially like our two main characters and how they relate to each other within the bounds of a society so very different from ours. This is a fun series that I recommend - each book is consistently good.

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Claudia Gray is back with a third installment in the Mr. Darcy and Miss Tilney mystery series. This could be read as a standalone, but the reading experience is greatly enhanced if you’ve read the previous two books in the series.

Gray wonderfully portrays our favorite Austen characters in just the way one would imagine them to be long after their original novels. She weaves Austen quotes and references throughout in a delightful nod to the beloved author. The mystery is satisfying and the will they/won’t they budding romance between Juliet and Jonathan is on point once again.

I highly recommend this series if you enjoy Austen continuations as much as I do. Look for it from your favorite bookseller on June 18. Many thanks to Vintage for granting me an e-ARC via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

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I adore this series! Claudia Gray has done it again. Jane Austen's characters are my favorite, and bringing them into a historical mystery together is pure genius. One that the author has done so well! I cannot wait to read the next book! (Please tell me there is another one?!)

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