For lovers of Pride and Prejudice and Longbourn, an intoxicating novel that tells the story of Charlotte Lucas, who marries the unfortunate Mr Collins after Lizzy Bennet spurns him.
Everybody believes that Charlotte Lucas has no prospects. She is unmarried, plain, poor and reaching a dangerous age. When she stuns the neighbourhood by accepting the proposal of buffoonish clergyman Mr Collins, her best friend Lizzy Bennet is appalled by her decision. Yet this the only way Charlotte knows how to provide for her future. Her married life will propel her into a new world: not only of duty and longed-for children, but secrets, grief, unexpected love and friendship, and a kind of freedom.
Jane Austen cared deeply about the constraints on women in Regency England. This powerful reimagining takes up where Austen left off in Pride and Prejudice, showing us a woman determined to carve a place for herself in the world. Charlotte offers a fresh, feminist addition to the post-Austen canon, beautifully imagined, and brimming with passion and intelligence.
Industry Reviews
Astonishing * Stylist *
I loved this book. Fans of Pride and Prejudice will find this a worthy and engrossing companion, beautifully written. Feminist in nature, without ever lecturing the reader, it is an intimate and honest account of a woman's struggles and strengths, painting a vivid picture of female life in the nineteenth century. I always felt Charlotte Lucas and Miss de Bourgh had hidden depths that Austen's story did not have time to explore, so this is a satisfying and compelling addition to the Austen world * Rebecca Mascull *
A sparkling read, full of passion and flair. Will delight Jane Austen fans and lovers of good fiction * Louisa Treger *
An utterly compelling read and an exquisite rendering of human values. Written with a sensitive and perceptive hand, and with an affectionate homage to Austen's own unique style; spangles of wry humour and wit adorn the narrative throughout. Charlotte's distinctive voice chimes as brightly as a just-struck bell. Regarding Mr Collins; no doubt to the outside world he remains as Austen intended: part fool, part prig - these traits are neither denied nor negated - but with the deft skill of the author, we clearly begin to see Mr Collins not only through Charlotte's eyes, but also through her heart; and at once his prolixity is understood, his tenderness revealed. Charlotte is a book which complements, rather than copies. There is certainly a link with Pride and Prejudice, but not a chain; and the story moves confidently and freely in its own direction. I believe fans of Jane Austen will adore it! * Laura Carlin, author of The Wicked Cometh *
An enjoyable and entertaining read which explores women's constrained choices in early 19th-century England. * Historical Novels Review *
This debut takes a supporting character from Pride and Prejudice and makes her a satisfying heroine . . . An enjoyable, even racy addition to the drawing-room industry of novels riffing off Austen * The Sunday Times *
I'll urge anyone who's ever loved Pride and Prejudice to go and track down a copy of Charlotte. Moffett has certainly left enough tantalising breadcrumbs that may lead to further stories to follow on from this one. Charlotte was exactly the comfort reading I needed to read the moment I tucked into it, and I savoured every page. * Nerine Dorman *
Helen Moffet's portrayal of early nineteenth century life for women in households rich and poor is convincing and enthralling.Helen Moffett handles the character development deftly and it's good to see old friends like Eliza, Jane and Lydia appear - and be reminded that life doesn't stop at the altar. * Karen's Book Bag *
