Full
Review from Miranda:
Over the years, undoubtedly many a
reader has imagined what a sequel to Pride and Prejudice would be
like. What would have become of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy,
two of literature’s most beloved characters? Jane Austen
fans now have Ava Farmer to thank for this in Second Impressions, a
superb continuation of Miss Austen’s masterpiece. Second
Impressions brings the Bennets, the Darcys, Mr. Collins and, of course,
the imperious Lady Catherine de Bourgh, back to life. We also
become better acquainted with a couple of the lesser characters from
Pride and Prejudice, and are reintroduced to some from another of Miss
Austen’s novels.
Second Impressions moves far beyond the bucolic environs of
Hertfordshire and Derbyshire as the Darcys venture out to explore
England, Scotland and Wales, and Europe, in the peace following the
Napoleonic Wars. The Darcy family’s travels are meticulously
researched and filled with fascinating pieces of history and rich
descriptions of places and things they encounter along the way. I
found myself consulting Google maps to trace their routes and made
margin notes for reference. A vivid, and at times, surprising
picture emerges of life in the coastal villages of the south and west,
and the commercial towns such of Bristol. On the Continent, the
family’s journey over the Alps is noteworthy, largely because of the
great road through the Simplon Pass that has made this possible.
Imagine how a horse and carriage, laden with passengers and trunks
outfitted for half a years’ journey could have made such a trip on
crude, mountainous roads.
Second Impressions is very much a scholarly work. It is an
ambitious study that delves into numerous aspects of late Regency
life. Technological advances, engineering feats and social trends
are dealt with in a learned manner. We see Mr. Darcy, a man with
a great sense of responsibility and natural curiosity, attending
scientific lectures and studying the advantages of coal-gas as a safer
and more efficient source for light. He is also searching for
ways to improve his lands, crops and equipment. To complete
the picture, we are brought to London and Paris for glimpses of the
elegant world of soirees, salons, dances and operas. In marked
contrast to this, we see the filth, noise and chaos that were the city
streets. The destructive evils of gambling, an addiction of
epidemic proportions during this time, is also sadly evident.
True to Miss Austen’s own keen observations on character, Miss Farmer
doesn’t miss a beat. It is a pleasure to see how the relationship
between Mr. & Mrs. Darcy has developed in the years following their
marriage and to once again enjoy their witty repartee. Also true
to Miss Austen’s well-known writing style, the story is told with
wonderful humor.
When I started Second Impressions, I read slowly and savored each
page. As I became more involved with the story, I began to read
at a faster pace and with increasing anticipation. It is both an
immensely enjoyable and educational book. It has the lifting
effect of transporting one to a time of greater civility, a welcome
respite from some of the baser aspects of today’s world.
PS –If you have the opportunity to attend one of Ms. Farmer’s book
signings, by all means do so. She is an engaging speaker, and an
expert on all things Austen and Regency.