I love a good Pride and Prejudice sequel. This one follows Lydia and Wickham to Newcastle immediately after their wedding for their first post with the regiment. While I adored the form of letters from Lydia to her parents and sisters, as well as seeing what her life would have been like there in a bustling town, it left me wanting more to the story.
The 27 letters covering 2 years were all very short, each followed by much lengthier historical notes on the people, places, and events mentioned in the letter. The letters stood well on their own without the notes, and I found myself skimming the historical comments, occasionally reading parts that seemed interesting to me. The final notes at the end were especially detailed (approximately 10% of the book according to my kindle reader) and again I just skimmed. There was also little in the letters about Wickham himself, and while I did see flashes of the selfish Lydia we all know and love, some of the letters just were not what I would expect from her, although of course she would make things sound better than they really were.
This book was obviously thoroughly researched, and read more like a history book, as seen through the eyes of Lydia Wickham for interest. Those who enjoy a deep dive into history will love it. If you are hoping for an entertaining sequel to your favorite Jane Austen, however, you may want to keep looking.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book courtesy of Troubador Publishing through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

An absolutely fabulous look at Newcastle in the late 18th century with intros from Pride and Prejudice’s very own Lydia Wickham. I hope there will be more as Lydia and her husband move to their next posting.

Knowing Pride & Prejudice is one of the most beloved titles of all time it’s is such a treat and delight to get Lydia’s story and I know both fans young and old will enjoy this continued take if one of the most historic novels of s time. I know I did’