This second book in a series of Pride and Prejudice sequels by Rebecca Ann Collins follows the lives of five women of Pemberley, all descendants of the original Jane Austen characters. Each of the five chapters is a story in itself, devoted to the life of one of these strong, independent and "accomplished" female characters in her search for fulfillment through career, love and marriage. The men in their lives are every woman's ideal image of a husband, treating them with respect, love, and tenderness. Their husbands keep them safe, support them emotionally as well as physically and are their constant companions. What more could one ask for?
The events occur during a significant period in England's history replete with political and social upheaval - just after the industrial revolution and at the beginning of the Victorian period. Historical events are masterfully interwoven into the plot as they pertain to the lives of the characters. Strong women such as them make a difference - helping poor Irish immigrants during the potato famine; emulating the efforts of Florence Nightingale during the Crimean war in the emerging hospitals of the period; and, finding their voice in writing like the Brontë sisters.
The common thread is of course Pemberley and the Darcy family. The marriage of Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy almost seems too good to be true. Despite the death of their second child, William, which they are still coping with, they remain as much in love as ever, dedicated not only to each other but to the entire community of Pemberley. Their hospitable nature, common sense and humanitarian outlook are the ultimate model for their family and their acquaintances. They are held in the highest esteem by everyone. Indeed, the "shades of Pemberley" are not only unpolluted but enhanced by the love surrounding Elizabeth and Darcy.
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