The Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlow

Published by Mantle

The Other Bennet Sister is a first novel for the author who is obviously a lover of Jane Austen and her use of language. Mary Bennet, the middle daughter, the outsider who sits between the strong friendships of Jane and Lizzie, and Kitty and Lydia, is the subject of this transformative story.

The character of Mary is really fleshed out in this novel. We discover that she is not so boring and plain, but has a mind of her own, loves to read widely and feels deeply. Readers familiar with Pride and Prejudice will find out more about minor characters from the book (such as Mr Collins, Charlotte Lucas and Mr and Mrs Gardiner from Cheapside) and this is one of the real strengths of the book. 

The language the author uses is mostly beautifully realised and the reader is gradually drawn into an Austen-like world. The book was a slow start for me, but once immersed, I relished the storyline and would recommend it as a very good read.

You can also check out The Other Bennet in the DPL catalogue

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