Presumption: An Entertainment: A Sequel to Pride and Prejudice

By the first chapter I knew this was not to disappoint! The language is very Austenesque and the wit is extremely enjoyable. The new characters are interesting and the classic P & P characters are loveable as ever. Georgianna channels a bit more of Elizabeth than expected but was fitting for this story. This is definitely a Georgianna story more than a Lizzy and Darcy -- but entertaining just the same. (The ending, however, wraps up very quickly-- almost too quickly.) I enjoyed this so much I found myself reading complete passages aloud! I believe Jane Austen would have been proud to have inspired such a novel.

I don't know why this book is given such sad review. I think some "critics" take themselves too seriously and think that they alone know what makes a book a good read. Just remember that criticism is only opinion and rarely the last word in good taste. I checked this book out from the library and really enjoyed it. I am an avid reader and find that "critics" forget to have fun with a book. Don't let nay-sayers deter yourself from at least browsing through this one at the library or bookstore.

I'm happily wallowing in Presumption right now, and I recommend it, accompanied by a scented bubble bath, as near nirvana. I've read other Jane Austen sequels, but this is the most enjoyable I've come across. Ms. Barrett retains Jane's light touch and saucy satire, and gives her characters more room to play. I can't wait to see what happens next, and to whom in this enlighted romance. Gotta go -- it's bubble bath time, and Georgianna must choose between two suitors!

Many writers have tried to continue the brilliant and witty writing of Jane Austen and have failed. This book was as close as one can get. Jane Austen understands human nature and enjoys writing the clever twists in plot lines; allowing her characters to finally realize and understand life (that only occurs when one puts aside human weaknesses). Read Jane Austen carefully, because she does not waste words. Ms. Barrett writes "Presumption" with a familar flair. Her style and use of words are very similar. Her characters come alive. I so enjoyed her book that I plan to read her other books.

Having been gullible enough to purchase and read the sequels to Rebecca and Gone With the Wind, I was VERY hesitant to invest any time or money in yet another poor imitation and sad continuation of a most beloved book. But I just couldn't get enough of Pride and Prejudice or any of the Jane Austin novels, and HAD to have one more. (I was tempted to write it myself if necessary.) Thankfully, I found Presumption. I expected this novel to focus almost entirely on Elizabeth's life at Pemberley. I mean who can deny that they wanted to know what happened after the dramatic courtship and satisfying wedding of Darcy and Elizabeth? But I was pleasently surprised when Julia Barret (actually two authors collaborating) primarily set her focus on Georgianna Darcy. Barret presents a very plausible (a must in a sequel), interesting, and fun-to-read story surrounding Georgianna's marriage prospects. She throws in some very amusing portraits of the delightfully "wicked Wickham" (as I like to think of him) and Lydia. We even get to fnd out what happens to Bingley's unmarried sister (a just result, rest assured) and other minor characters. It's lots of fun, if you were, like me, disappointed that Pride and Prejudice wasn't longer. I was especially pleased with Barret's phrasing and language. As you know, Austin was a bit sparse in her descriptions and explanations. But Barret emulates Austin's style well. We learn about the characters more from their conversations and actions rather than lengthy descriptions of their feelings or appearances. If you ever wished for one more Jane Austin novel, I really do recommend this book. And, if you haven't yet read Pride and Prejudice, I think you might still enjoy this book.