I was in a serious book slump and decided to take a chance on this book. I loved it! The narrow lives of women in the 1800's is hard to wrap your mind around. I found myself rooting for different characters at different points in the book. Yes, it had romance, but also highlighted the strength of women. A great read!!

Pride and Prejudice is my second favorite Jane Austen novel so I was quite estatic to see that there was a continuation/retelling story told by Lizzie Bennetts best friend Charlotte Lucas. I for one found this story to be very enjoyable. Charlotte and Mr Collins were such minor characters in Pride and Prejudice that it was nice to have a story that focused on them.Although there were some things in the novel I did not approve of nevertheless I didn't give up on the book and I continued to read on.

The novel begins with Charlotte making the descion to accept to Mr. Collins proposal. She knows that she isn't getting any younger and soon it will be hard to have any prospects at all. Although Mr. Collins isn't the most exciting man in the world he is still a good man. However, over time Charlotte begins to wonder if she made the right choice is marrying him.

I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.

I love these additions to the Pride and Prejuidce world, and was so glad this book is about Charlotte Lucas. Rachel Parris was able to create a world that felt like the Pride and Prejudice story. I enjoyed going on this journey with the characters and this time-period, I was invested in going on this journey with Charlotte. It was everything that I was hoping for and enjoyed in this type of book. I'm excited to read more from Rachel Parris as this was everything that I was hoping for.

I’m such a Jane Austen fan, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to request this! Introducing Mrs. Collins falls into a beloved tradition of Pride and Prejudice reimaginings that delve into the interior lives of secondary characters—think The Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlow, Longbourn by Jo Baker, or The Clergyman’s Wife by Molly Greeley.

Charlotte has always been seen in contrast to Lizzie: staid, pragmatic, caring and careful—but not daring or in love. This story explores what her life might look like if she were to take other opportunities and dare to be visible to others.

Jane Austen, of course, is famously (and delightfully) cruel to her characters, often making them satirical caricatures. I was curious to see what tone this novel would take and enjoyed the balance that was struck. Their foibles are as much on display: Mrs. Bennet’s dizzying neuroticism remains wholly entertaining: "Hill [the housekeeper] is away visiting her sister who is dying, so you can imagine how we suffer!"

Mr. Collins is also still ridiculous—the author is no gentler on him than Austen was—but we do get glimpses of something more through flashbacks into his past: hints of vulnerability and self-awareness that didn’t exist in the original. Despite this, he still veers into the pedantic and pious, and Charlotte is caught in the tension of being grateful for her home and independence while being deeply uncomfortable in her marriage. That conflict is portrayed with nuance and depth.

The interlude chapters gave me mixed feelings. On the one hand, they sometimes pulled me out of the flow of the present-day storyline. On the other, they offered haunting and poignant glimpses into the characters’ pasts, adding texture and emotional weight.

Charlotte’s choices are not always comfortable ones - particularly in her affair. I kept wanting to excuse her; Mr. Collins is hardly an ideal husband. But she is still making hurtful choices, and I appreciated that the author doesn’t shy away from that complexity.

The novel walks a fine line between preserving the satire and lightness of Austen’s original and exploring heavier themes like loss, miscarriage, sexual assault, and the emotional aftermath of war. I think this balance was handled well overall.

All this being said, reader, I loved it. ;) Reading a Pride and Prejudice spin-off is like coming home to old friends—imperfect, beloved, and enduring.

Much thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown & Company for the free ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.

So, I've read a few Pride and Prejudice continuation stories starring Charlotte Lucas Collins and I think this one is my favorite. It's elegant and perfectly emulates the mature tone of Persuasion while exploring the nuances of Charlotte's marital choices within the context of her time. It draws what it needs from Pride and Prejudice but, otherwise, does not dwell overly much on the events of its source material.

I didn't appreciate the few intermittent flashback chapters because they're disruptive for no good reason; the main narrative is adequately doing the work, so they're entirely unnecessary. On the other hand, the epistolary element (of which I'm usually not a fan) *does* actually serve a useful purpose.

I won't reveal who Charlotte's (true) love interest is, but there is An Affair, which must be an understood, predestined thing as every iteration of her that I've read involves one. While I don't generally condone infidelity as a way to resolve one's marital dissatisfaction and lack of fulfillment, when one is subject to the oppressive double standards of early 19th century gender/social constructs and practices, well... Get it, girl.

Also, I hate Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Can't stand her, never could; she's not funny, she's not a lark, I detest her. In this novel, though, I didn't resent her. I might even have admired her a little.

Recommended to Janeites who, like Charlotte, are willing to step out of their comfort zone.

I was invited by the publisher to review this book. This book is about Charlotte from Pride and Prejudice, and her journey to find love, too. Charlotte chose Mr. Collins for marriage because he offered her stability and a home, and she is satisfied with the life she built. But then a visitor arrives, and a spark is ignited. Charlotte must then decide if she wants to follow duty or the path of her longing.

What a delight this book was! I loved reading this re-imagining about Charlotte from Pride and Prejudice. I thought the author did a great job in keeping the storyline set within its timeframe, but also incorporating a sensible modern spin, as well. Plus, a fun little bonus to this book is a bit of a backstory to Mr. Collins. This is a great addition to the Jane Austen/Pride and Prejudice universe, and I highly recommend reading this book for its unique perspective!

Thank you to NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Introducing Mrs Collins

Stepping into the pages of "Introducing Mrs Collins" feels like a homecoming to the beloved world of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice—a landscape of genteel society, quiet longing, and grand estates like Lucas Lodge, Huntford, Rosings, and Longbourn. For lifelong admirers, this book offers that rare magic: reimmersion in a world we once dreamily traversed with hopes of discovering our own Mr. Darcy.

As someone often hesitant to explore adaptations or reimaginings of Austen—knowing the impossibly high bar she set—I must concede: this book surpasses expectations. The author has not simply paid homage to Austen’s timeless story but has masterfully woven the fabric of the original into a new, captivating narrative that shines a spotlight on Charlotte's experience. It's a worthy sequel that adds emotional depth and nuance, capturing the wit, subtlety, and sharp social observations that have long endeared Austen to millions.

There is a delicate balance in revisiting classic tales: honoring established facts while breathing new life into familiar characters. Here, that balance is achieved with elegance, care, and creativity. Readers will find themselves delighting in every page, rediscovering the settings, and journeying alongside Charlotte as she steps from supporting character into the luminous heart of the story.

I wholeheartedly recommend "Introducing Mrs Collins" to anyone who loves Jane Austen’s work. Whether you’re an Austen devotee or a casual reader, the sense of nostalgia, the flawless integration of the original story, and the compelling voice of Charlotte will enchant you from beginning to end.

I received an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review, and I am thrilled to give it a glowing five stars.

This book is an absolute knockout from start to finish. The story pulls you in instantly, weaving unforgettable characters with a plot that never stops surprising you. The writing is crisp and vivid, painting scenes that practically leap off the page. Every twist hits like a thunderclap, keeping you hooked until the very last word. It’s a breathtaking, can’t-miss read that will linger in your mind long after you’ve turned the final page.

I absolutely loved this book. As a Jane Austin lover, I liked this take on Charlotte story. Her bravery, strength, and personality really came out in such a great way.

This is a retelling involving Charlotte from pride and prejudice. I loved her and having her perspective in this book made me feel like she is a strong woman in spite of the time period. I loved it and would highly recommend!

I felt an unexpected connection to Charlotte Lucas while reading Introducing Mrs. Collins. Even though the story takes place in another time, it struck me how relevant her situation still feels today. Women, even in our modern era, are often defined or judged by their marriages, and that made it easy to understand her desperation and the choice she made.

What I really loved about this story is that Charlotte walked into her marriage to Mr. Collins knowing it wasn’t about love but in a way, that decision ended up saving her life. The subtle way she begins to develop feelings for her husband (not quite love, but something genuine and tender) felt very honest and real. And then, of course, the way the right man finally came into her life gave me such a satisfying sense of hope.

This book reminded me that happiness can come in unexpected forms, and that sometimes what looks like a compromise can become the path to something greater.
I highly recommend this book!

I absolutely loved this book and couldn't put it down! The characters and plot felt very true to the original Pride and Prejudice, and I particularly enjoyed getting Charlotte Lucas's perspective and seeing what happened after her marriage to Mr. Collins. While some events were surprising, they and their outcomes seemed plausible to me.

I also really appreciated the author's writing style. Fortunately, she does not have what is to me the only downside of Jane Austen’s writing style, which are the nuances and layers of meaning of Austen’s time which can often be lost on modern readers unfamiliar with the social customs and language of that period. I found the descriptions to be well-balanced and not excessive, which allowed the narrative to maintain a brisk and engaging pace. The only part that felt a bit slow was when Colonel Fitzwilliam recounted his war experiences to Charlotte.

Overall, it was a fantastic read, and I highly recommend this book!

Introducing Mrs. Collins is a thoughtful and beautifully written reimagining of Charlotte Lucas’s story. Where Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice leaves Charlotte as the sensible woman who traded passion for stability, this novel breathes new life into her character and dares to ask: what if her story did not end there?

The pacing and prose felt true to Austen’s world while still adding fresh emotional depth. I especially appreciated how the author explored Charlotte’s choices with empathy. Her decision to marry Mr. Collins may not align with what readers want for her, but it is easy to understand her reasoning. What made the story even more moving was Charlotte’s willingness to reflect on her missteps, creating space for real growth and introspection.

Another strength of the book is how it humanizes Mr. Collins. He remains awkward and flawed, but the author offers us a fuller picture of him, making him more than just comic relief. At the heart of the story, though, is Charlotte’s unexpected connection with Colonel Fitzwilliam. Their bond is honest, vulnerable, and authentically drawn, a perfect example of the “right person at the wrong time” dilemma that adds weight to Charlotte’s journey.

Ultimately, Introducing Mrs. Collins is a tender tale of love, longing, and second chances. For anyone who has ever wondered if there was more to Charlotte Lucas than practicality, this novel delivers a heartfelt answer. It is never too late to claim your own happy ending.

My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an ARC of Rachel Parris' novel 'Introducing Mrs. Collins'.

I requested this novel to review with no expectations going in. I have read Jane Austin's 'Pride and Prejudice' a number of times and I love the 1995 BBC series. I was intrigued by the opportunity to continue the story of Charlotte Lucas, to learn more about her as an individual rather than simply the friend of Elizabeth Bennet or the long suffering wife of the cringe-worthy Mr Collins. I have to say I was more than pleasantly delighted by this novel. It is heartwarming, sincere, and you can tell the author has done her research with great care.

I don't want to risk accidentally revealing anything about the plot by going into any details, you wouldn't thank me for it. . Suffice to say this book is well worth investing in. You will fall in love with the family cast of characters from the start, you will laugh, you will cry, your heartstrings will be pulled, and by the end your heart will be full of joy.

A rare 5/5 from me.

I loved this Pride and Prejudice spinoff which tells the story of Elizabeth Bennett's best friend Charlotte Lucas and her life after she marries Mr. Collins and the choices she has to make to find happiness. Highly recommend.

Thank you NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company for this arc.

I was pulled into this story almost immediately, and I loved every second of being able to genuinely feel the feelings this story shares. I loved how this story flowed effortlessly, with some lovely moments, and I look forward to reading whatever Rachel Parris writes next!

Pub Date: 04 Nove 2025


Many thanks for the opportunity to read 'Introducing Mrs. Collins!

** spoiler alert ** Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.

I don't think I have ever read another Pride and Prejudice that has captured Mr. Collins quite so well. Every single word he spoke or the letters he wrote, I could see coming straight from the Jane Austen novel. I loved how she developed his character, showing flashbacks from his life and how hard he tried to be a good husband. How having Elizabeth and Darcy stay with them affected him, but he never said anything because it made his wife happy. Yet still showing all his faults.

On the other hand, she totally changed the character of Charlotte. I am not saying that she couldn't have found a passionate love. I just can't imagine her ever cheating and think Jane Austen might have a heart attack (not really but kinda). at the thought. She could have been demisexual instead of asexual. More than she immediately was bored and immediately didn't like anything about her life.

It wasn’t so much that the author changed Charlotte's character since I have read adaptations that have done that before. It's that you know the only way Charlotte can get a HEA is for her husband to die. Which, Mr. Collins deserved the HEA in the book. Not Charlotte. Cheaters don't deserve a happily ever after. Maybe just an Ordinary Ever After (got that term from another book I just read . . . Until the Clock Strikes Midnight by Alechia Dow). I just shouldn't have to hope someone dies in a rom-com to get to the happy ending.

All that being said, I definitely will be looking into other books by this author in the future.

Absolutely beautiful! I loved this book. I had just finished reading Pride and Prejudice when I received this ARC. It was perfect timing. If you would have told me Jane Austen had written it, I would have believed it! The passion, the character development, perfection!! This is going to make a great book for book clubs. Thank you so much for this read and I WILL be ordering myself a trophy copy when it is released. I reviewed this on TikTok and instagram.

I loved it! It was a great addition to the Pride and Prejuidce world. I like how Rachel Parris kept within the timeline of the 1800's but included a modern spin. This is different from the books I normally read, but I really enjoyed it!

Thank you NetGalley & the publisher for the ARC!