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Perception
Perfect for fans of Pride and Prejudice, Perception continues the adventures of the Bennet sisters in the Regency world we all know. For lovers of Austen and sequels Longbourn and Thornfield Hall, to reimaginings like Eligible and Death Comes to Pemberley, this is a sweeping historical epic to savour.
Mary Bennet does not dream of marriage. Much to her mother's horror, Mary is determined not to follow in the footsteps of her elder sisters, Jane (now Mrs Bingley) and Lizzy (now Mrs Darcy). Living at home with her remaining sister, Kitty, and her parents, Mary does not care for fashions or flattery. Her hopes are simple - a roof over her head, music at the piano, a book in her hand and the freedom not to marry the first bachelor her mother can snare for her.
But Mrs Bennet is not accustomed to listening to her daughters. When one of Meryton's wealthiest residents reveals her son is returning home, Mrs Bennett is determined to hear wedding bells ring for one of her girls. Thrown into society, Mary discovers that promises can be broken, money can conquer love, and duty is not always a path to happiness. But by the time she realises her perceptions might be false, might she have missed her chance at a future she'd never imagined?
Mary Bennet does not dream of marriage. Much to her mother's horror, Mary is determined not to follow in the footsteps of her elder sisters, Jane (now Mrs Bingley) and Lizzy (now Mrs Darcy). Living at home with her remaining sister, Kitty, and her parents, Mary does not care for fashions or flattery. Her hopes are simple - a roof over her head, music at the piano, a book in her hand and the freedom not to marry the first bachelor her mother can snare for her.
But Mrs Bennet is not accustomed to listening to her daughters. When one of Meryton's wealthiest residents reveals her son is returning home, Mrs Bennett is determined to hear wedding bells ring for one of her girls. Thrown into society, Mary discovers that promises can be broken, money can conquer love, and duty is not always a path to happiness. But by the time she realises her perceptions might be false, might she have missed her chance at a future she'd never imagined?
400 pages, Paperback
First published July 13, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
October 31, 2017
Do you like Austen? Romance? Books about the Regency period? Ever wondered what happened to the other two Bennet sisters -- Catherine and Mary -- in Pride and Prejudice? Well then, this is the book for you.
Terri Fleming (who is a friend), has written a delightful imagining of the next chapter in the lives of the Bennet, with a careful and respectful nod to the original. A novel examining the pitfalls of perception and expectation, but with a modern sub-text.
The perfect read for a summer afternoon in the garden or a winter read by the fire. In either case, cups of tea are required.
Terri Fleming (who is a friend), has written a delightful imagining of the next chapter in the lives of the Bennet, with a careful and respectful nod to the original. A novel examining the pitfalls of perception and expectation, but with a modern sub-text.
The perfect read for a summer afternoon in the garden or a winter read by the fire. In either case, cups of tea are required.
April 13, 2024
Splendid Mary and Kitty Story
This Pride and Prejudice sequel focuses on the lives of Mary and Kitty—the two remaining unmarried Bennet daughters. It begins a few years after the weddings of the other three sisters. Both sisters have matured somewhat, but still struggle in overcoming their faults. Mrs. Bennet hasn’t changed much and is still determined to find husbands for her two still unmarried daughters. Mr. Bennet still leans on the indolent side, yet still participates socially, including the occasional travel. There are quite a few new characters, all well portrayed by the writer for their particular roles. We also get a very nice glimpse of the Darcys and the Bingleys living their HEAs in Derbyshire.
Mary is a young, unfashionable bookworm who is rarely asked to dance, is shy and lacks confidence in social situations. When an heir returns to the neighborhood, he asks her to assist in cataloging his library. When she finds herself more interested in just a friendship, she begins to lean on Kitty’s fashion advice and takes her into her confidence. Later, even Elizabeth and Jane will have a hand in this. She is eventually transformed into a conversant woman who is beautiful, fashionable and confident. Mary faces what she believes is an insurmountable problem, however; her potential mother-in-law dislikes her and wants an heiress for her son.
Kitty on the other hand has been missing the companionship of Lydia, since married to Wickham and now living in America. She has no real interests in common with Mary until they begin sharing confidences and advice. Kitty has learned some lessons from Lydia’s near ruin, but will she forget them when a potential rake gives her attention?
As the title depicts, the story is about perceptions. In fact, I perceived it was the many misperceptions which occurred that formed the plot. In Mary’s case especially, so many that her HEA is threatened when she almost gives way to them.
I especially loved the genuine love and camaraderie that developed among the sisters, but especially Mary and Kitty. The book is very well written with good dialogue and introspection.
Highly recommend.
April 13, 2024 - Audiobook
Lucy Scott is another new-to-me narrator for the JAFF genre. Her performance is emotive and smooth. I felt the personalities of all the characters were perfectly portrayed. Highly recommend her.
This Pride and Prejudice sequel focuses on the lives of Mary and Kitty—the two remaining unmarried Bennet daughters. It begins a few years after the weddings of the other three sisters. Both sisters have matured somewhat, but still struggle in overcoming their faults. Mrs. Bennet hasn’t changed much and is still determined to find husbands for her two still unmarried daughters. Mr. Bennet still leans on the indolent side, yet still participates socially, including the occasional travel. There are quite a few new characters, all well portrayed by the writer for their particular roles. We also get a very nice glimpse of the Darcys and the Bingleys living their HEAs in Derbyshire.
Mary is a young, unfashionable bookworm who is rarely asked to dance, is shy and lacks confidence in social situations. When an heir returns to the neighborhood, he asks her to assist in cataloging his library. When she finds herself more interested in just a friendship, she begins to lean on Kitty’s fashion advice and takes her into her confidence. Later, even Elizabeth and Jane will have a hand in this. She is eventually transformed into a conversant woman who is beautiful, fashionable and confident. Mary faces what she believes is an insurmountable problem, however; her potential mother-in-law dislikes her and wants an heiress for her son.
Kitty on the other hand has been missing the companionship of Lydia, since married to Wickham and now living in America. She has no real interests in common with Mary until they begin sharing confidences and advice. Kitty has learned some lessons from Lydia’s near ruin, but will she forget them when a potential rake gives her attention?
As the title depicts, the story is about perceptions. In fact, I perceived it was the many misperceptions which occurred that formed the plot. In Mary’s case especially, so many that her HEA is threatened when she almost gives way to them.
I especially loved the genuine love and camaraderie that developed among the sisters, but especially Mary and Kitty. The book is very well written with good dialogue and introspection.
Highly recommend.
April 13, 2024 - Audiobook
Lucy Scott is another new-to-me narrator for the JAFF genre. Her performance is emotive and smooth. I felt the personalities of all the characters were perfectly portrayed. Highly recommend her.
March 14, 2019
My Rating: 4.5* rounded up to 5*
Mrs. Bennet is all aflutter! A new gentleman is in the neighbourhood, and she is intent on him marrying one of her two daughters still at home.
What follows is a heartwarming tale of Mary and Catherine Bennet, whose perceptions of each other and themselves will bring them closer together as they avoid their mother's machinations. I so enjoyed the subtle transformations of each of the sisters and the influence they had upon the other. However, Jane Bingley and Elizabeth Darcy get their fair share of the influence as well when Mary begs for an invite. Between gossip, eavesdropping and possible scandal, the road to true love is littered with disappointed hopes.
"Everything I ever thought or felt has been turned on its head." (quote from the book)
Ms. Fleming's overall approach to the novel was delightful. I enjoyed the descriptive verse of nature, fashion and general setting seamlessly intertwined within the story. There is a definite feel of being a part of their lives that added a different perspective, especially with the owners of the haberdashery, Mr. and Mrs. Blain. They certainly captured my attention and at times left me laughing. Mr. Montague, Mrs. Montague, Lady Sandalford, Lord Applefrith, Mr. Dalrymple and several others have much impact upon the lives of the Bennet sisters. Will they falter or will they triumph?
I highly recommend this engaging and worthy sequel to Pride and Prejudice and can only hope that Ms. Fleming pens another!
Mrs. Bennet is all aflutter! A new gentleman is in the neighbourhood, and she is intent on him marrying one of her two daughters still at home.
What follows is a heartwarming tale of Mary and Catherine Bennet, whose perceptions of each other and themselves will bring them closer together as they avoid their mother's machinations. I so enjoyed the subtle transformations of each of the sisters and the influence they had upon the other. However, Jane Bingley and Elizabeth Darcy get their fair share of the influence as well when Mary begs for an invite. Between gossip, eavesdropping and possible scandal, the road to true love is littered with disappointed hopes.
"Everything I ever thought or felt has been turned on its head." (quote from the book)
Ms. Fleming's overall approach to the novel was delightful. I enjoyed the descriptive verse of nature, fashion and general setting seamlessly intertwined within the story. There is a definite feel of being a part of their lives that added a different perspective, especially with the owners of the haberdashery, Mr. and Mrs. Blain. They certainly captured my attention and at times left me laughing. Mr. Montague, Mrs. Montague, Lady Sandalford, Lord Applefrith, Mr. Dalrymple and several others have much impact upon the lives of the Bennet sisters. Will they falter or will they triumph?
I highly recommend this engaging and worthy sequel to Pride and Prejudice and can only hope that Ms. Fleming pens another!
January 21, 2018
"Mrs Bennet's uncertain smile was a piteous thing"
What a gem! As a keen Jane Austen fan I approached "Perception" with trepidation. What if it was a let-down or pastiche?
I need not have worried. Terri Fleming is a gifted author with a brilliant eye for both the style and the sentiment of Jane Austen. In "Perception", she develops the world of "Pride and Prejudice" with sensitivity, respect and wit. I found myself intrigued to see how and whether the two younger Bennet sisters, Mary and Kitty, would succeed in securing love and friendship; the climax of the book is a masterpiece of bringing together a series of compelling storylines. But most of all, I enjoyed the language: Fleming's rich, colourful writing brings to life the details of Mary and Kitty's world in sensuous, scintillating prose.
Jane Austen would be proud.
What a gem! As a keen Jane Austen fan I approached "Perception" with trepidation. What if it was a let-down or pastiche?
I need not have worried. Terri Fleming is a gifted author with a brilliant eye for both the style and the sentiment of Jane Austen. In "Perception", she develops the world of "Pride and Prejudice" with sensitivity, respect and wit. I found myself intrigued to see how and whether the two younger Bennet sisters, Mary and Kitty, would succeed in securing love and friendship; the climax of the book is a masterpiece of bringing together a series of compelling storylines. But most of all, I enjoyed the language: Fleming's rich, colourful writing brings to life the details of Mary and Kitty's world in sensuous, scintillating prose.
Jane Austen would be proud.
February 28, 2018
Pride & Prejudice is one of my all time favourite books. So, the idea of discovering what happened to the other Bennett sisters seemed really intriguing.
I wanted to like this book. I tried to like this book. But it was impossible. I kept reading hoping the story will improve at some point. It never did.
Full of cliches. Boring, two-dimensional, annoying characters. (Yes, yes, even Darcy was boring.) No real plot. No conflict. No climax. No, just no.
Shame.
I wanted to like this book. I tried to like this book. But it was impossible. I kept reading hoping the story will improve at some point. It never did.
Full of cliches. Boring, two-dimensional, annoying characters. (Yes, yes, even Darcy was boring.) No real plot. No conflict. No climax. No, just no.
Shame.
September 14, 2019
Review here: https://girlwithherheadinabook.co.uk/...
I have to applaud Terri Fleming in her choice of title for her spin-off novel - it's very Austenesque. Picking up on the lives of the two remaining unmarried Bennet sisters, it is another example of the Mary-centric fan fiction which are currently in such vogue. I have only recently become aware of the heaving market of Pride and Prejudice variations and sequels which by far eclipse all other Austen novels in the spin-off market. In this story, Mary and Kitty remain with their parents and then one day some exciting news arrives - the handsome young heir to Cuthbert Park has returned from abroad. Why yes, that's a single gentleman of fortune and so we all know what it is of which he must surely be in want.
The premise of the novel is that Mary Bennet has put aside thoughts of wedlock. She hopes only for a roof over her head, a piano to play and some books to read. While Kitty may skip about and come close to getting her head turned by the various local gentlemen, Mary has her eyes set on more serious matters. Her mother naturally has other ideas. Indeed, Fleming has a fair amount of success in conjuring up Mrs Bennet, still clamouring for attention in the household and gamely attempting to corral her daughters into marriage. However, from here I felt that the book rapidly became unstuck.
The main issue with so much of the Mary fan fiction is that the authors are trying desperately to make Mary into a Cinderella and ... she just isn't one. Mary Bennet is the girl who made loud, vapid and insensitive comments throughout Pride and Prejudice. When Elizabeth expressed concern over Jane's illness and set out to call on her, Mary told her that this was not a good use of reason. She does not care about others. She is not kindly or sweet-natured or any of the other character aspects traditionally associated with Cinderella. Mary is devoid of charisma or independent thought. If she is to play the heroine, certain things have to change. And so, in Perception, a lot of things do.
On her father's recommendation, Mary is asked to catalogue the library at Cuthbert Park. This naturally throws her into the path of the single gentleman of fortune and of course they fall in love. The whole 'setting aside thoughts of wedlock' does not last very long. However, the gentleman's mother has her eyes set on a higher prize and so we have the necessary stumbling block to the couple's ever-lasting happiness. I have read several pieces of Mary fan-fiction now and they all seem to feature a handsome young man materialising to draw her out of her shell. Following a misunderstanding, Mary flees in emotional anguish to her married sisters in Derbyshire. No Pride and Prejudice sequel is complete without a return visit to the original players. Mary plays with her nieces and nephews and discovers that There Is More To Life Than Books. Her sisters lend her new clothes and give her a makeover. Afterwards Jane announces in delight that is amazing what a a new hairstyle can achieve. And at this point I had to set the book down and breathe since the whole 'new hairstyle' cliche is one of my personal pet peeves. The whole thing reminded me very strongly of the Harry Potter fan fiction trend approximately fifteen years ago which had Hermione decide books were well boring and then morph into Avril Lavigne. Mary Bennet suddenly becomes the belle of the ball and all the gentlemen fall at her feet. All because she had a haircut. Sigh.
The reason why I loathe this trope with quite such a passion is because it implies that social awkwardness can be wiped away with an aesthetic change. Something which is routed internally requires more than an external fix. I loved the book series The Princess Diaries. It is a witty and engaging series about an angst-ridden teenaged girl. However, the film was a travesty in how it implied that simply straightening Mia's hair turned her into a whole new person. Mia's characterisation remained utterly consistent on the page but on the screen we were unable to ignore that she was actually Anne Hathaway, beautiful and assured. If you are already confident and comfortable in your skin, a good haircut has the power to lift you up and make you walk out the door standing tall. Because of that, it may be hard to imagine what a minefield they are for people who feel less sure of themselves. In Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, Gail Honeyman plays with the 'good haircut' cliche by having it be more about Eleanor reaching out and accepting kindness, therefore making it a moment about an emotional connection. In short, more going on beyond the external. Eleanor's problems remain and the haircut is just a pit-stop along her journey towards healing. There are no such nuances with Perception.
Of course the other reason why the 'good haircut' cliche is out of place is that this is a novel dealing with Austen characters. Austen had absolutely no truck with personal appearances and the only time that hair ever gets mentioned is to imply that the character in question is insufferably vain. The residents of Highbury express disquiet when Frank Churchill goes all the way to London to get his hair cut and although we subsequently find that this was a ruse, it is an early indication of his trivial character. Later he also passes comment on Jane Fairfax's hair but this is again a deception. In Persuasion, Sir Walter Elliot decides that he would be all right with being seen with Admiral Croft but only provided that the Admiral got his hair fixed properly first. Austen was suspicious of those who spent too much time spent fretting over their hair.
I tried to look at Perception away from its associations with Pride and Prejudice. Other than the voyage to Derbyshire, the plot is a pretty basic Cinderella narrative with Mary in the starring role and Lady Sandalford as fairy godmother. This Mary is meek, eager to please and handy with small children. She blushes to think of her former self. She is so deserving that she is even turned abruptly into an heiress. Other than Mrs Bennet, none of the book's characters bear much resemblance to their original counterparts. Where Kitty was whiny and insipid, here she is charming and wise. After turning away from the handsome gentleman with the possibly impure intentions, her ultimate marriage outshines even that of Elizabeth. Fleming's Mr Bennet is warm-hearted and you can practically see the twinkle in his eye. Darcy is dull as ditchwater and informal to boot. Indeed, all of the characters bandy their first names around in a way that made my toes curl. If Austen's Elizabeth continues to refer to her husband as Mr Darcy, the idea of him casually saying to new acquaintances to call him Darcy or Fitzwilliam is painfully unrealistic.
In its own right, Perception is a run-of-the-mill slightly anaemic Regency romance. Structurally though, it sags a bit having to deal with two sisters and I can see why most sequels focus on one. The biggest issue though is that the book just cannot live up to its forebear. I could not suspend my disbelief around Fleming's decision to have Mary and Kitty's marriages be of such magnificence. This is the whiny Bennet sister and the unpleasant one. Are we really expected to believe that they suddenly become such eligible brides? Austen stated that Kitty married a clergyman and Mary a clerk. Not poverty, not spinsterhood, not a life spent living on the charity of their sisters. They were allowed respectability. They were not expected to gain renown. Austen's version of their fates remained within the realms of realism for two such forgettable characters. I could not engage with Perception because I could not recognise its principal players as having any resemblance to their 'true' counterparts.
However. Having said all of that. I'm having a really rough run of spin-offs lately and I'm starting to think that it's me rather than them. Other people seem to be able to look past the plot contrivances and the cliches but for me, it grates. Like many Austen fans, I feel passionately that my interpretation of her work is the only correct one. Because I cannot conceive that Austen was ever a writer of romances (and indeed she declared herself that she did not write such things), a book like Perception, sheared of Austen's wit and social commentary and relying on the 'good haircut' cliche which I despise - this was never going to be a book that I could enjoy. This is one occasion where in my capacity as book reviewer I am throwing up my hands. No, I didn't like it, but if you enjoy romances and you aren't too bothered about character continuity then by all means, give it a whirl.
I have to applaud Terri Fleming in her choice of title for her spin-off novel - it's very Austenesque. Picking up on the lives of the two remaining unmarried Bennet sisters, it is another example of the Mary-centric fan fiction which are currently in such vogue. I have only recently become aware of the heaving market of Pride and Prejudice variations and sequels which by far eclipse all other Austen novels in the spin-off market. In this story, Mary and Kitty remain with their parents and then one day some exciting news arrives - the handsome young heir to Cuthbert Park has returned from abroad. Why yes, that's a single gentleman of fortune and so we all know what it is of which he must surely be in want.
The premise of the novel is that Mary Bennet has put aside thoughts of wedlock. She hopes only for a roof over her head, a piano to play and some books to read. While Kitty may skip about and come close to getting her head turned by the various local gentlemen, Mary has her eyes set on more serious matters. Her mother naturally has other ideas. Indeed, Fleming has a fair amount of success in conjuring up Mrs Bennet, still clamouring for attention in the household and gamely attempting to corral her daughters into marriage. However, from here I felt that the book rapidly became unstuck.
The main issue with so much of the Mary fan fiction is that the authors are trying desperately to make Mary into a Cinderella and ... she just isn't one. Mary Bennet is the girl who made loud, vapid and insensitive comments throughout Pride and Prejudice. When Elizabeth expressed concern over Jane's illness and set out to call on her, Mary told her that this was not a good use of reason. She does not care about others. She is not kindly or sweet-natured or any of the other character aspects traditionally associated with Cinderella. Mary is devoid of charisma or independent thought. If she is to play the heroine, certain things have to change. And so, in Perception, a lot of things do.
On her father's recommendation, Mary is asked to catalogue the library at Cuthbert Park. This naturally throws her into the path of the single gentleman of fortune and of course they fall in love. The whole 'setting aside thoughts of wedlock' does not last very long. However, the gentleman's mother has her eyes set on a higher prize and so we have the necessary stumbling block to the couple's ever-lasting happiness. I have read several pieces of Mary fan-fiction now and they all seem to feature a handsome young man materialising to draw her out of her shell. Following a misunderstanding, Mary flees in emotional anguish to her married sisters in Derbyshire. No Pride and Prejudice sequel is complete without a return visit to the original players. Mary plays with her nieces and nephews and discovers that There Is More To Life Than Books. Her sisters lend her new clothes and give her a makeover. Afterwards Jane announces in delight that is amazing what a a new hairstyle can achieve. And at this point I had to set the book down and breathe since the whole 'new hairstyle' cliche is one of my personal pet peeves. The whole thing reminded me very strongly of the Harry Potter fan fiction trend approximately fifteen years ago which had Hermione decide books were well boring and then morph into Avril Lavigne. Mary Bennet suddenly becomes the belle of the ball and all the gentlemen fall at her feet. All because she had a haircut. Sigh.
The reason why I loathe this trope with quite such a passion is because it implies that social awkwardness can be wiped away with an aesthetic change. Something which is routed internally requires more than an external fix. I loved the book series The Princess Diaries. It is a witty and engaging series about an angst-ridden teenaged girl. However, the film was a travesty in how it implied that simply straightening Mia's hair turned her into a whole new person. Mia's characterisation remained utterly consistent on the page but on the screen we were unable to ignore that she was actually Anne Hathaway, beautiful and assured. If you are already confident and comfortable in your skin, a good haircut has the power to lift you up and make you walk out the door standing tall. Because of that, it may be hard to imagine what a minefield they are for people who feel less sure of themselves. In Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, Gail Honeyman plays with the 'good haircut' cliche by having it be more about Eleanor reaching out and accepting kindness, therefore making it a moment about an emotional connection. In short, more going on beyond the external. Eleanor's problems remain and the haircut is just a pit-stop along her journey towards healing. There are no such nuances with Perception.
Of course the other reason why the 'good haircut' cliche is out of place is that this is a novel dealing with Austen characters. Austen had absolutely no truck with personal appearances and the only time that hair ever gets mentioned is to imply that the character in question is insufferably vain. The residents of Highbury express disquiet when Frank Churchill goes all the way to London to get his hair cut and although we subsequently find that this was a ruse, it is an early indication of his trivial character. Later he also passes comment on Jane Fairfax's hair but this is again a deception. In Persuasion, Sir Walter Elliot decides that he would be all right with being seen with Admiral Croft but only provided that the Admiral got his hair fixed properly first. Austen was suspicious of those who spent too much time spent fretting over their hair.
I tried to look at Perception away from its associations with Pride and Prejudice. Other than the voyage to Derbyshire, the plot is a pretty basic Cinderella narrative with Mary in the starring role and Lady Sandalford as fairy godmother. This Mary is meek, eager to please and handy with small children. She blushes to think of her former self. She is so deserving that she is even turned abruptly into an heiress. Other than Mrs Bennet, none of the book's characters bear much resemblance to their original counterparts. Where Kitty was whiny and insipid, here she is charming and wise. After turning away from the handsome gentleman with the possibly impure intentions, her ultimate marriage outshines even that of Elizabeth. Fleming's Mr Bennet is warm-hearted and you can practically see the twinkle in his eye. Darcy is dull as ditchwater and informal to boot. Indeed, all of the characters bandy their first names around in a way that made my toes curl. If Austen's Elizabeth continues to refer to her husband as Mr Darcy, the idea of him casually saying to new acquaintances to call him Darcy or Fitzwilliam is painfully unrealistic.
In its own right, Perception is a run-of-the-mill slightly anaemic Regency romance. Structurally though, it sags a bit having to deal with two sisters and I can see why most sequels focus on one. The biggest issue though is that the book just cannot live up to its forebear. I could not suspend my disbelief around Fleming's decision to have Mary and Kitty's marriages be of such magnificence. This is the whiny Bennet sister and the unpleasant one. Are we really expected to believe that they suddenly become such eligible brides? Austen stated that Kitty married a clergyman and Mary a clerk. Not poverty, not spinsterhood, not a life spent living on the charity of their sisters. They were allowed respectability. They were not expected to gain renown. Austen's version of their fates remained within the realms of realism for two such forgettable characters. I could not engage with Perception because I could not recognise its principal players as having any resemblance to their 'true' counterparts.
However. Having said all of that. I'm having a really rough run of spin-offs lately and I'm starting to think that it's me rather than them. Other people seem to be able to look past the plot contrivances and the cliches but for me, it grates. Like many Austen fans, I feel passionately that my interpretation of her work is the only correct one. Because I cannot conceive that Austen was ever a writer of romances (and indeed she declared herself that she did not write such things), a book like Perception, sheared of Austen's wit and social commentary and relying on the 'good haircut' cliche which I despise - this was never going to be a book that I could enjoy. This is one occasion where in my capacity as book reviewer I am throwing up my hands. No, I didn't like it, but if you enjoy romances and you aren't too bothered about character continuity then by all means, give it a whirl.
January 7, 2018
This was a really good story. I'm always dubious about Austen sequels but I enjoyed this one greatly.
May 11, 2019
What a lovely story, bringing to life the two Bennet sisters who are rather neglected in Pride & Prejudice. I loved seeing Mary and Kitty develop into well-rounded characters, and indeed joined by a cast of new characters that are just as colourful, particularly the excellent Lady Sandalford. This was easily a match to any of the original Austen stories.
August 16, 2017
I just finished this book and I have to say I am absolutely and positively in
love
with it! Pride & Prejudice is one of my all time favorites! If you feel the same way, then what are you waiting for? Hop right into this beautiful gem!
It was so good to jump back into Lizzy's & Jane's livesDarcy is my bae for ever and ever! But also to see the other (one can almost say "forgotten") Bennet sisters thrive and find their way was such a delight. I found Fleming's writing style to be engaging and the characters are so easy to fall in love with! Their development is believable and you cry and laugh and feel with them throughout their journey.
I saw this beautiful book in the store and even though I literally have too many books for my own good, I am so happy I picked it up! For good humour, here is Mary down to a tee :)
It was so good to jump back into Lizzy's & Jane's lives
I saw this beautiful book in the store and even though I literally have too many books for my own good, I am so happy I picked it up! For good humour, here is Mary down to a tee :)
January 7, 2019
not very often I give 4 stars. more like 4.5. I'll probably re-read this at some point.\
She hits it smack on the head for me.
The Austenesque english clanked when it should have pinged a few times, but the characterization and arc worked, remaining (in my mind PERCEPTION!) true to the spirit of the original.
I loved it and didn't want it to end.
She hits it smack on the head for me.
The Austenesque english clanked when it should have pinged a few times, but the characterization and arc worked, remaining (in my mind PERCEPTION!) true to the spirit of the original.
I loved it and didn't want it to end.
November 16, 2021
In this Pride and Prejudice sequel we follow the fortunes and heartaches of the two remaining Bennet daughters - Mary and Catherine. Several years have passed but they are still instantly recognisable from canon. Can either have a happy ending like their two older sisters.
A delightful, very enjoyable, well-written story with very likeable new characters. The main characters were a joy to read about. A very enjoyable re-read, again.
A delightful, very enjoyable, well-written story with very likeable new characters. The main characters were a joy to read about. A very enjoyable re-read, again.
May 10, 2018
As much as I love Jane Austen's novels, I tend to avoid the stream of sequels to them written by contemporary authors. Initially, I fall under their spell and read them, but more often than not they don't really leave me feeling satisfied. Imagine my happiness now that I've finally read a Jane Austen sequel that was very satisfying and left me wanting to read more! Yes, I can happily say that Perception is a Jane Austen sequel I can wholeheartedly recommend.
Perception picks up several years after Pride and Prejudice. We follow the lives of Mary and Kitty Bennet, the only daughters still at home with Mr. and Mrs. Bennet now that Jane, Lizzy and Lydia are married. As with Pride and Prejudice, Mrs. Bennet bemoans the plight of still having two unmarried daughters and wonders what will become of them. Mary, who is a bookish introvert who has accepted that she is not as beautiful as her sisters and also hates the societal conventions that require women to be frivolous and vapid, seems to accepted her lot in life. She assumes she will be a spinster who must take care of her parents when her sister Kitty eventually marries. For her part, Kitty worries that she will never meet anyone she wants to marry. She also assumes that she will end up a spinster, still living in her childhood bedroom and caring for her ageing parents. But, of course, fate...and the arrival of a very eligible bachelor shakes things up for both Mary and Kitty.
Perception excels at returning the reader to Longbourn House of Pride and Prejudice and into Mary and Kitty's lives. Fleming does a wonderful job of recreating slightly older and (not always) wiser Mary and Kitty and their every day worries and squabbles. I loved watching the evolution of two women as individuals and as sisters. I also felt that the potential suitors Fleming created for the sisters were perfect choices and the arcs of their relationships was enjoyable to read, especially as Fleming often took unpredictable turns in the course of the story.
Without a shadow of a doubt, I can highly recommend Terri Fleming's Perception. I loved following this wonderfully written sequel to Pride and Prejudice, and I look forward to reading more novels by Fleming.
My rating? 5 stars
Perception picks up several years after Pride and Prejudice. We follow the lives of Mary and Kitty Bennet, the only daughters still at home with Mr. and Mrs. Bennet now that Jane, Lizzy and Lydia are married. As with Pride and Prejudice, Mrs. Bennet bemoans the plight of still having two unmarried daughters and wonders what will become of them. Mary, who is a bookish introvert who has accepted that she is not as beautiful as her sisters and also hates the societal conventions that require women to be frivolous and vapid, seems to accepted her lot in life. She assumes she will be a spinster who must take care of her parents when her sister Kitty eventually marries. For her part, Kitty worries that she will never meet anyone she wants to marry. She also assumes that she will end up a spinster, still living in her childhood bedroom and caring for her ageing parents. But, of course, fate...and the arrival of a very eligible bachelor shakes things up for both Mary and Kitty.
Perception excels at returning the reader to Longbourn House of Pride and Prejudice and into Mary and Kitty's lives. Fleming does a wonderful job of recreating slightly older and (not always) wiser Mary and Kitty and their every day worries and squabbles. I loved watching the evolution of two women as individuals and as sisters. I also felt that the potential suitors Fleming created for the sisters were perfect choices and the arcs of their relationships was enjoyable to read, especially as Fleming often took unpredictable turns in the course of the story.
Without a shadow of a doubt, I can highly recommend Terri Fleming's Perception. I loved following this wonderfully written sequel to Pride and Prejudice, and I look forward to reading more novels by Fleming.
My rating? 5 stars
December 3, 2019
I wasn't entirely sure what to expect from a fan fiction continuation story for Mary and Kitty Bennett, but I found the book on for a decent deal and thought it was worth the punt. It's been on my to-read list for a while.
What I got was something which I probably enjoyed more than P&P if I'm honest. This book happens a few years after P&P, Mary is about 22/ 23, Kitty is 20; both are still living at home unmarried and under their mother's scheming thumb. This is their once upon a time story where they get to be heroines with their own character arcs.
Mary is, on the surface, the same bland and quiet girl we know of old, with some very narrow thoughts and behaviours. Kitty is bored. Both of them are lonely in their own way. Enter some young make blood into the vaguely near vincinity and you have the mix of a traditional historical romance.
Mary has is helped to overcome her outward appearance but has to make the inner transition to better self-perception by herself. Kitty has to overcome her natural tendency to be over exuberant and impulsive behaviours. Their individual journies to self discovery are great to read.
It is written in a style quite like the original, which can't have been an easy thing to do with modern perspectives. Perhaps the best thing about the writing is that it shows that a good romance (and a historical one at that), doesn't need smut to hold the storyline up.
I'll be certain to search out his author's works in the future.
What I got was something which I probably enjoyed more than P&P if I'm honest. This book happens a few years after P&P, Mary is about 22/ 23, Kitty is 20; both are still living at home unmarried and under their mother's scheming thumb. This is their once upon a time story where they get to be heroines with their own character arcs.
Mary is, on the surface, the same bland and quiet girl we know of old, with some very narrow thoughts and behaviours. Kitty is bored. Both of them are lonely in their own way. Enter some young make blood into the vaguely near vincinity and you have the mix of a traditional historical romance.
Mary has is helped to overcome her outward appearance but has to make the inner transition to better self-perception by herself. Kitty has to overcome her natural tendency to be over exuberant and impulsive behaviours. Their individual journies to self discovery are great to read.
It is written in a style quite like the original, which can't have been an easy thing to do with modern perspectives. Perhaps the best thing about the writing is that it shows that a good romance (and a historical one at that), doesn't need smut to hold the storyline up.
I'll be certain to search out his author's works in the future.
December 18, 2019
This is a sequel to Pride and Prejudice.
It focuses on the least attractive Bennett sister, Mary, who was always portrayed as dowdy and frumpy in the original book, a bit up herself and superior.
In this novel, she finally finds a man she can love, who loves her for who she is. It's not a straight forward love story though, as Sebastien's dragon of a mother does NOT approve, and Mary inadvertently overhears her stating this in no uncertian terms. Heartbroken, Mary flees to Derbyshire to spend time with first Jane and Bingley and then Elizabeth and Darcy, who are all full of good advice and helpful hints and an Abu dance of unwanted, expensive gowns which help Mary to look the part of a woman in society.
When she returns to Meryton, a chance encounter with Sebastien's aunt opens the door to true love after all and all is well.
Alongside this story is Kitty's own story, the younger sister who was as silly as Lydia who ran off with Wickham. Only Kitty has grown up and she too embarks on a love story of her own.
The story is written very closely to Austen's own style, but was very easy to read and I really enjoyed it. It was less comicated than the original novel and the people were less convoluted, but Mr Bennett was still stuck in his library and Mrs Bennett was ruled by her nerves, and Lizzy was as wise as ever.
Really enjoyed it, a good read. 4 stars.
It focuses on the least attractive Bennett sister, Mary, who was always portrayed as dowdy and frumpy in the original book, a bit up herself and superior.
In this novel, she finally finds a man she can love, who loves her for who she is. It's not a straight forward love story though, as Sebastien's dragon of a mother does NOT approve, and Mary inadvertently overhears her stating this in no uncertian terms. Heartbroken, Mary flees to Derbyshire to spend time with first Jane and Bingley and then Elizabeth and Darcy, who are all full of good advice and helpful hints and an Abu dance of unwanted, expensive gowns which help Mary to look the part of a woman in society.
When she returns to Meryton, a chance encounter with Sebastien's aunt opens the door to true love after all and all is well.
Alongside this story is Kitty's own story, the younger sister who was as silly as Lydia who ran off with Wickham. Only Kitty has grown up and she too embarks on a love story of her own.
The story is written very closely to Austen's own style, but was very easy to read and I really enjoyed it. It was less comicated than the original novel and the people were less convoluted, but Mr Bennett was still stuck in his library and Mrs Bennett was ruled by her nerves, and Lizzy was as wise as ever.
Really enjoyed it, a good read. 4 stars.
April 7, 2018
I have just finished reading ‘Perception’ with pure delight!! I adored this novel - the characters were presented very cleverly, being authentic and so familiar to Jane Austen’s that it truly felt like her own sequel, causing many a smile at Mr. Bennet’s quips to Mrs. Bennet! (He has always been one of my favourite characters!)
I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the development of both Kitty and Mary’s personalities and feel the slightly loosened knots in the original plot (i.e. “I wonder what happened to the other two sisters?”) are well and truly tied! It was also interesting and satisfying to picture both Jane and Lizzy in the Bingley and Darcy households too, during the ir involvements with ‘bringing Mary out’.
Terri Fleming wrote with such effective precision and description that I could visualise the scenes easily, as I read ... it would make a super film or mini-series! I then proceeded to see what else she had written and was amazed to discover that this was her debut novel!
I do hope to see both more stories related to ‘Pride and Prejudice’ and other novels the author may go on to publish in the future.
I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the development of both Kitty and Mary’s personalities and feel the slightly loosened knots in the original plot (i.e. “I wonder what happened to the other two sisters?”) are well and truly tied! It was also interesting and satisfying to picture both Jane and Lizzy in the Bingley and Darcy households too, during the ir involvements with ‘bringing Mary out’.
Terri Fleming wrote with such effective precision and description that I could visualise the scenes easily, as I read ... it would make a super film or mini-series! I then proceeded to see what else she had written and was amazed to discover that this was her debut novel!
I do hope to see both more stories related to ‘Pride and Prejudice’ and other novels the author may go on to publish in the future.
February 10, 2019
I was reluctant to read any so called sequels to Jane Austen’s novels, after having the unfortunate experience of reading a dreadful one many years ago that had Bingley cheating on Jane. Pemberley I think it was called. I was curious about this one as people on Amazon where giving it 5 Star ratings and I was not disappointed, as I had not got around to reading Colleen McCullough’s sequel to Pride and Prejudice and am kind of reluctant to I thought I would give this one a go as I always liked Mary better than Lizzie, just as I prefer Persuasion to Pride and Prejudice. Terri Fleming captured Jane Austen’s style perfectly and spoon a brilliant sequel and one that had Mary as the heroine along with giving a conclusion to Mary it also gave one to Kitty. I would love see a TV adaptation of this. Just as in the opening of Pride and Prejudice, Perception opens with an eligible bachelor arriving in the village who gives in my opinion Darcy a run for his money. I will not say anymore as it must be read to experience it. The 5 Stars is well deserved. ps love the nosy shop keepers.
August 1, 2020
In Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice three of the five Bennet sisters marry and begin their lives away from Longbourn. But what of plain, dull Mary, and flighty Kitty? Perception is author Terri Fleming's attempt at creating an Austenian ending for them.
We know little about the two sisters left unsettled except that Mary is a severe, judgmental prig and Kitty is the flighty accomplice in Lydia's disastrous escapades.
Alas, the two neglected Bennet sisters; are they never to enter into the desired state of wedded bliss - to a well propertied gentleman with maybe a title thrown in for good measure? Is Mrs. Bennet never to get her heart's content and blather it all over the county?
Fleming does a nice job of recreating the Austenian world with just the right amount of dishonorable cads, motherly scheming, mutual visiting, balls, handsome bachelors, rumors, and a surprising makeover.
This is decidedly light reading. If you like Jane Austen, and I love her, you'll like this attempt at finishing the story of the Bennet sisters.
We know little about the two sisters left unsettled except that Mary is a severe, judgmental prig and Kitty is the flighty accomplice in Lydia's disastrous escapades.
Alas, the two neglected Bennet sisters; are they never to enter into the desired state of wedded bliss - to a well propertied gentleman with maybe a title thrown in for good measure? Is Mrs. Bennet never to get her heart's content and blather it all over the county?
Fleming does a nice job of recreating the Austenian world with just the right amount of dishonorable cads, motherly scheming, mutual visiting, balls, handsome bachelors, rumors, and a surprising makeover.
This is decidedly light reading. If you like Jane Austen, and I love her, you'll like this attempt at finishing the story of the Bennet sisters.
July 25, 2020
Have you ever wondered what became of Mary and Kitty Bennett, the teenage sisters left behind after the events of 'Pride and Prejudice'? As a long standing Jane Austen fan, I was delighted to come across ‘Perception’, a sequel to ‘Pride and Prejudice’ written by new Australian author Terri Fleming.
The author's novel focusses on the two remaining Bennett girls, now in their early twenties and still at home with their ill-matched parents. Mary and Kitty are a little older and wiser than when we first met them, but readers will not be surprised to learn that they have to put up with a mother who is obsessed with finding a rich husband for them.
I feel that Terri Fleming brought to life these previously minor characters in the Bennett family, by showing us in an engaging and credible way not only how Mary and Kitty have developed since their teenage years but also how their relationship changes. Of course we also meet Mr Bennett, Jane, Elizabeth, Messrs Bingley and Darcy, the Lucas family and several new characters. I'll not give any plot spoilers but I did find the novel very entertaining. In 'Perception', the author has created a very enjoyable opportunity to return to the world of 'Pride and Prejudice' .
The author's novel focusses on the two remaining Bennett girls, now in their early twenties and still at home with their ill-matched parents. Mary and Kitty are a little older and wiser than when we first met them, but readers will not be surprised to learn that they have to put up with a mother who is obsessed with finding a rich husband for them.
I feel that Terri Fleming brought to life these previously minor characters in the Bennett family, by showing us in an engaging and credible way not only how Mary and Kitty have developed since their teenage years but also how their relationship changes. Of course we also meet Mr Bennett, Jane, Elizabeth, Messrs Bingley and Darcy, the Lucas family and several new characters. I'll not give any plot spoilers but I did find the novel very entertaining. In 'Perception', the author has created a very enjoyable opportunity to return to the world of 'Pride and Prejudice' .
March 24, 2023
A continuation of Pride and Prejudice, centered around Mary and Kitty Bennet? Yes, it was as cool and unique as it sounds!
First of all, I love the way the author characterized Mary - I never thought Jane Austen gave Mary enough credit for her dedication and cleverness. I mean a woman who greatly values books, discipline, music, and ambition - she's called successful, not an oddity.
Also, Jane Austen would find the writing style quite acceptable. It was very similar to the P&P style and definitely retained some of the 0riginal Austen charm.
The romance in the novel is very swoon-worthy too! Tres Cute <3
I guess one thing I didn't enjoy was how it was portrayed that Mary getting a huge makeover, and marrying a rich man solves all her problems - so classic and overused.
Either way, if you're a Pride and Prejudice fan and craving more, give this a read!
First of all, I love the way the author characterized Mary - I never thought Jane Austen gave Mary enough credit for her dedication and cleverness. I mean a woman who greatly values books, discipline, music, and ambition - she's called successful, not an oddity.
Also, Jane Austen would find the writing style quite acceptable. It was very similar to the P&P style and definitely retained some of the 0riginal Austen charm.
The romance in the novel is very swoon-worthy too! Tres Cute <3
I guess one thing I didn't enjoy was how it was portrayed that Mary getting a huge makeover, and marrying a rich man solves all her problems - so classic and overused.
Either way, if you're a Pride and Prejudice fan and craving more, give this a read!
April 25, 2019
Death Comes to Pemberly has been my only experience with Pride and Prejudice continuation stories. And I did not love that book. But this, I really liked! I was bored by it at first, but once it started moving, I began to love the characters, their development, and jumping back into the Pride and Prejudice world!
The book focuses on Mary and Kitty, and shows their growth and development after the events of the first book. It was fun to explore those characters more, and to imagine their positive path after the events of the first one.
If you're a P and P fan, you'll enjoy this as a fun way to dive back into that world, spend time with some old friends, and get to know some new characters along the way :)
The book focuses on Mary and Kitty, and shows their growth and development after the events of the first book. It was fun to explore those characters more, and to imagine their positive path after the events of the first one.
If you're a P and P fan, you'll enjoy this as a fun way to dive back into that world, spend time with some old friends, and get to know some new characters along the way :)
September 9, 2020
3.5 stars rounded up. More Georgette Heyer than Jane Austen, it's still fun to revisit the people and places from Pride and Prejudice in a way that isn't too cringey (we'll let the American author off a couple of details). I did find the portrayal of Mary a little difficult to get into given how merciless Austen is to her in P&P, and I'm not a fan of the 'change your hair and clothes and you'll be attractive' school of thought (although to be fair the love interest already liked Mary before this). A light read clearly written and researched with love, but as with any Austen sequel it's best not to expect the same level of writing and wit.
May 27, 2020
A lovely sense of place and voice
Really enjoyed this story. Being very picky about historical novels, and then for this one to have the added burden of continuing the stories of some of the best known sisters in literature, I was not expecting to be quite as entertained as I was. The transformation of both Kitty and Mary is done both at a satisfying pace and with enough complexity for both girl's final outcomes to be nicely achieved. Four stars rather than five because 'prey' should have replaced 'pray' I think, but other than that fabulous.
Really enjoyed this story. Being very picky about historical novels, and then for this one to have the added burden of continuing the stories of some of the best known sisters in literature, I was not expecting to be quite as entertained as I was. The transformation of both Kitty and Mary is done both at a satisfying pace and with enough complexity for both girl's final outcomes to be nicely achieved. Four stars rather than five because 'prey' should have replaced 'pray' I think, but other than that fabulous.
September 5, 2017
*won from giveaway*
What a lovely book and an amazing sequel to Pride and Prejudice. There is a very happy ending and it is great to see the characters of Pride and Prejudice carried on in this novel. The writing is great and is very similar to the original Pride and Prejudice, ensuring that the book reads well as a sequel. I would recommend to anyone who has read Pride and Prejudice or anyone who likes the other works of Jane Austen.
What a lovely book and an amazing sequel to Pride and Prejudice. There is a very happy ending and it is great to see the characters of Pride and Prejudice carried on in this novel. The writing is great and is very similar to the original Pride and Prejudice, ensuring that the book reads well as a sequel. I would recommend to anyone who has read Pride and Prejudice or anyone who likes the other works of Jane Austen.
September 19, 2018
A must for Austen fans. I was a bit confused by the change in the characters, but really it does fit well, particularly as a sequel to the novel rather than the films of P&P. The writing style I found to be very Austenesque as well, particularly in the characters prose which feels very true to the period.
Absolutely loved it, and will probably read it in partnership with P&P whenever the Austen urge comes to me.
Absolutely loved it, and will probably read it in partnership with P&P whenever the Austen urge comes to me.
May 2, 2018
Really enjoyed this story by Terri Fleming. Was great to imagine what might have happened to Mary & Kitty from Pride & Prejudice. Loved how the characters grew and developed in a way that made me really care about them and cheer them on to their happy ever afters! I really found that they author captured the style and voice of Jane Austen. A great read!
October 27, 2018
In this Pride and Prejudice sequel we follow the fortunes and heartaches of the two remaining Bennet daughters - Mary and Catherine. Instantly recognisable from canon. Can either have a happy ending like their two older sisters.
A delightful, very enjoyable, well-written story. The main characters were a joy to read about. I look forward to reading it again soon
A delightful, very enjoyable, well-written story. The main characters were a joy to read about. I look forward to reading it again soon
October 21, 2019
An excellent continuation of Jane Austen s work
Often others have tried to work in Austens world and very few have succeeded in capturing tune as creating new stories.
This one has. In choosing Mary as the voice we see the family and Mary grow. A worthy book for fans of Pride and Prejudice.
Often others have tried to work in Austens world and very few have succeeded in capturing tune as creating new stories.
This one has. In choosing Mary as the voice we see the family and Mary grow. A worthy book for fans of Pride and Prejudice.
January 4, 2021
An enjoyable and believable sequel
In Perception the author ties up the Pride and Prejudice loose ends with gradual and consistent character growth for Mary and Kitty. Of course there are many Austenesque obstacles for the girls to overcome and their trials and tribulations are riveting. I couldn’t put this book down! Well done!
In Perception the author ties up the Pride and Prejudice loose ends with gradual and consistent character growth for Mary and Kitty. Of course there are many Austenesque obstacles for the girls to overcome and their trials and tribulations are riveting. I couldn’t put this book down! Well done!
April 15, 2021
Turns out I have a real soft spot for Jane Austen heroines getting their flowers after their main books - this is a Pride and Prejudice sequel in which Mary and Kitty Bennet learn from each other and find their own happy endings, in a well-written, compulsive, thoroughly enjoyable style that Austen herself would have enjoyed.
March 25, 2021
A terrific pastiche of what might have happened to the two younger sisters in "Pride and Prejudice". This is entertaining, witty, romantic fiction you can't put down. Recommended for all fans of Jane Austen ancient and modern.
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