The OG romance story between Elizabeth Bennet & Mr. Darcy
.Genre: Fiction, Romance, Historical Romance
Publication: 1813
Author: Jane Austen
Synopsis
The classic romance novel written by Jane Austen is a fan favourite among many book lovers, so I decided to give it a try and see if I could see the appeal.
The story is set in either 1811 or 1812 and follows the middle-class Bennet family. Comprised of five daughters, Mrs. Bennet has the goal of marrying off her daughters to wealthy, high-status men. One day, Mr. Bingley, the only son of the Bingley family, comes down to Netherfield Park and catches the attention of the eldest daughter, Jane Bennet. Along with Mr. Bingley is the less amiable and snobbish Mr. Darcy. Not favoured by Mrs. Bennett and the second daughter, Elizabeth Bennet. Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth clash due to their mutual pride and prejudice. Despite the fact that Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth find themselves drawn to each other. Creating the OG enemies-to-lovers story!
Intial Thoughts
My reasoning for picking up this book is quite simple. I have been on a mission to read more classic books, and what is more classic than Pride and Prejudice! Going into reading, I knew I was in for a romance story which is a genre I usually don’t read other than previously reading Bridgerton. Based on online discourse, I went in expecting Mr. Darcy to be the blueprint of a true gentleman (spoiler: I understand!!). The introduction of the book talks about how so many people have fallen in love with the story and asks the question “will you be one of them?” I think that set up quite high expectations for me, and it made me excited to read.
Review
Unfortunately, I don’t think it was my favourite book. I didn’t hate it, but it didn’t live up to my expectations. I know a lot of people have said “maybe their frontal lobe hasn’t fully developed,” and that is what I started to think; maybe my understanding and knowledge are not fully developed in order for me to fully immerse myself into the story.
However, I don’t think that was the case. I found that despite being written in older English, I was still able to follow along and understand the stories of each character. Personally, I found the book’s pacing was the reason it was difficult to finish. I do admit that I am someone who enjoys fast-paced stories, and I think the slow-burning style that Austen used for Pride and Prejudice does not match me.
Despite that, there is no denying that it is still a wonderfully written book. All the characters are likable; I never once found myself hating any of them. I did get annoyed with Lady Catherine De Bourgh during her conversation with Elizabeth, but I will give her the benefit of the doubt and try to understand her perspective. I also admit that I could not help but chuckle at how the opinions of Lydia Bennet and her marriage to Wickham are viewed. I understand, but I found it quite funny that her marriage is now somewhat overlooked, given that Jane and Elizabeth have both been engaged to respectable and wealthy men.
I loved following Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth as they slowly started to understand and view each other in a different light. The contrast in how Elizabeth would speak about Mr. Darcy in the beginning compared to the end of the book was very sweet. I never felt that their romance sparked out of nowhere; rather, I saw the slow burn between them and appreciated how nothing between them felt rushed.
One thing I would point out is that if you are interested in getting into more classic literature, Pride and Prejudice seems to be more of an advanced read. I suggest familiarizing yourself with older writing styles and language before delving into this one.
Although I don’t think I would reach for this book again at this time, I am super happy that I gave it a read. I love how Jane Austen writes, and I am curious to read some of her other books.
If you’ve read Pride and Prejudice, let me know what you think, or if you have any other Jane Austen books you think I would like, please leave me some suggestions!
Happy reading!
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