What would have happened had Darcy not fled from Rosings after his disastrous proposal? Reynolds attempts to answer that question in By Force of Instinct. This “what if?” novel is packed with misunderstandings, more pride, and more prejudice.
While I would consider this one Abigail Reynolds best Pride and Prejudice variations, I really did not like her portrayal of Georgiana or Mr. Bennet. Thankfully, Mr. Bennet isn’t in the story enough to really detract, but Georgiana is a major player in By Force of Instinct. She’s also malicious, vengeful, and bitter. Some of her bitterness is easy to stomach; Darcy is allowed to marry Elizabeth, who is “beneath him,” but Georgiana could not marry the man who is beneath her. But the majority of it is over-the-top. It makes for great controversy and plot line, but it is a deviation from the character presented to us by Jane Austen. There’s also the little problem of the “love shack” Darcy sets up for himself and Elizabeth.
I enjoyed By Force of Instinct, but it’s certainly not for Austen purists. It’s diverting and enjoyable only if you don’t mind of a few twists and distortions.
Book Mentioned:
- Reynolds, Abigail. By Force of Instinct. Madison, WI: Intertidal, 2007. Print. 260 pgs. ISBN: 9780615148250. Source: Purchased.
7 comments
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July 9, 2009 at 10:29 pm
Stephanie
It seems kind of weird to try and re-write a classic story, rather than just writing a sequel. Thanks for the review.
July 10, 2009 at 8:26 am
diaryofaneccentric
I have one of the Pemberley Variations on my shelf, don’t remember which one, though. Sounds like an interesting idea, answering the what-ifs, but I haven’t read it yet.
–Anna
July 10, 2009 at 4:36 pm
Heather
Sounds interesting! But I don’t think i’d like the changes with Georgiana either! Thanks for the review.
July 12, 2009 at 9:38 pm
Velvet
This sounds interesting because of its twists. I may read it just to check out the love shack you mentioned. ;-D
August 5, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Melanie
I’ve read Reynolds book “Impulse and Initiative,” and although I found some actions to be a bit implausible overall I enjoyed it. I’ve had this book on my wishlist for sometime. It’s fun to think about what could have been.
April 21, 2010 at 3:29 am
Iris
“I enjoyed By Force of Instinct, but it’s certainly not for Austen purists.” I think that might be said for any sequel/prequel/rewrite of Austen.
A “love shack”? I’m not sure if I’d like that word to pop up in my Austenesque reading.
May 22, 2010 at 2:30 pm
Hannah
I have read two other of Reynold’s variations and I have to say I was not disappointed. This variation is on my list of to be read’s, but I have to say that I don’t like when Georgiana’s character is changed. However, I don’t think anyone could possibly destroy her character anymore than Linda Berdoll has. Thanks for the review!