Love by Turns
This vagary proposes an alternate perspective for Mr. William Collins, the parson of Hunsford Parsonage in Kent, who has been charged with two missions by his patroness, the estimable Mistress of Rosings Park. He arrives on the doorstep of Longbourn with the principle wish to heal a long-standing breach in the family. While endeavoring to right past wrongs, he must also find a suitable companion from amongst his cousins of whom his patroness might approve. As the heir to Longbourn, Mr. Collins is very aware that these tasks will not be easily accomplished.
Join Mr. Collins as his family discovers that he is not the dreaded cousin everyone assumes but is a man of conviction with whom one can share their burdens. He may even surprise you as you witness his temerity when he encounters the respectable Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley who himself is in Meryton to complete a task of his own making: to fulfill a promise to aid his close friend Mr. Bingley who has leased a property in Hertfordshire. And what might happen when these gentlemen, who seemingly have little in common, find themselves willing to do all in their power to aid the ladies they admire?
One warning, a caution, and two notes
WARNING: This novella touches upon specific afflictions one may encounter when aging. In this tale, these scenes are equally difficult for the one who is aging and those who love them.
CAUTION: This novella contains a Mr. Collins who is a rather likeable fellow.
NOTE from the author: The whole of the novella takes place between the time Mr. Collins arrives at Longbourn and the following Easter when both Darcy and Elizabeth visit Kent. It is not in line with canon, nor is it always within the dictates of the proprieties at the time, but it was fun to write and, hopefully, will be an enjoyable tale to read.
NOTE from the author: Readers may notice what would be considered an improper use of capitalization when referring to members of the militia throughout this novel. These capitalizations were not made in error but simply demonstrate respect for the rank earned by the characters portrayed in this novel, a form of deference and respect that could not be overlooked by the author.
Reviews
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Well Mr Collins certainly set the cat amongst the pigeons.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a revelation. I was not going to read it in one go, I was going to get on with the important tasks I had to do. Alas for good intentions.
This book has a different take and is not to canon. If this is not your scene then this book is not for you.
A bit of a plot spoiler. I really like this Mr Collins, he is kind, considerate and cares about his family and those he serves.
I was pleased to read that Mr Bennet was forced to face his failures, laziness, and mental cruelty. I have long wanted to read a book where he has to have a good, long and honest look at himself. Also, forgiveness has had to be earned, it was not gifted on a silver platter along with the morning post.
This book is really about the consequences of Mr Bennet’s actions and inactions and the affects they have on Mrs Bennet and his daughters. All because Mr Collins paid a visit.
-Cedar K
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Wow!! great story
Ecstatic is the word that best describes what I feel a the end of this book. Great story and fantastically written. I am in awe at the concept and the execution is exceptional. I loved reading this book. Matter of fact I could not put it down till I finished it.
-lily j