Alias Thomas Bennet: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

by Suzan Lauder

. . . of most interest to Bennet was Mr. Darcy of Pemberley.

When Fitzwilliam Darcy attends the Meryton assembly, he befriends a quiet, intelligent gentleman. In frequent visits to his friend's home, he becomes acquainted with the Bennet family of Longbourn. Yet Mr. Darcy is distracted by a strange feeling of having met some of them before.

This is a different Bennet family from the cleverly crafted one in Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice. This Mr. Bennet is a responsible gentleman who takes an active role in the education and upbringing of all five of his daughters, manages Longbourn to be prosperous, and displays loving guidance toward Mrs. Bennet-a gentle, caring mother and wife.

There is a mystery lurking at Longbourn-a secret unknown even to Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy is entangled in its extraordinary revelations.

Who is Thomas Bennet?

---

Notes:

This is a "what-if" variation on Pride and Prejudice: What if Mr. Bennet's personality were entirely different than in canon? What events would change in Austen's original, leading to fresh, new plot points? How would it affect Elizabeth and Darcy and the other characters? There is a second story line to tell how Mr. Bennet's personality became different, and that's the heart of the mystery!

This book contains sexual scenes and violence, including one brief scene of non‑explicit sexual violence that may be concerning to sensitive readers. The sexual violence does not include Elizabeth Bennet.

Genres: Audiobook, Historical Romance, Regency, Historical, Historical Fiction, Fiction

282 pages, Paperback

First published November 22, 2013

About the author

Somehow the bio is boring. I don't want to talk about me, I want to talk about books. So if you need to see the bio, the same one as on my Meryton Press blog and my Facebook page, scroll down. But to really know a bit about me, check out my "Loved It" list. It says a lot. Of course, I have about three times that many books rated at five stars, and they are all very special to me, each in their own way. Some are books others would just rank as "meh" but worked for me, and others are classics that everyone would agree are fantastic. That's what I love about Goodreads: we all get our opinion on something very personal as reading choice. If I write that a book "Should have been 5*," it means it needed editing!

These days, I read very little other than Jane Austen Fan Fiction, Regency Romance, and nonfiction reference for writing. Part of the reason for that is that my health doesn't allow me to read for more than about an hour a day, and I have many books in that genre to catch up on, not to mention the online serial stories that can be even better than some of the published books.

My reviews are honest and impartial and won't include any for Meryton Press (my publisher) published books for obvious reasons. Well, unless I'm weak and have to give kudos where kudos are due.

You won't get newsletters from me, since I hate getting that sort of stuff clogging up my email. You will get chances at freebies and swag every so often through other channels because I love giving stuff away. In fact, I have a free gift for anyone who reads this bio. Email me at suzanlauder at gmail dot com to claim it, and say where you saw the offer.

I'd love feedback of all sorts on my writing, but especially stuff that tells me what I can do to please you, as a reader. Thanks!

Biography:

Saucy opinions like "The person, be it gentleman or lady, who has no pleasure in a good novel must be intolerably stupid." won Suzan Lauder, who thought, "I have to read more by this woman who writes with such snarky humour!" And another Jane Austen fanatic was captured in the clever dead author's net. Austen figures prominently in Lauder's writing, as Pride and Prejudice has inspired all her published fiction. Her publisher is Meryton Press.

Lauder is currently editing a Regency romance series called "Cecilia's Mismatches." She released the mature novel "The Barrister's Bride" for publication in May 2022. It has elements of that longtime JAFF favourite style, the FMS. Prior to that, she released the introductory book in the novella series "Scandal and Skirmish" called "Schemes of Felicity." "The Mist of Her Memory," was rated a top book of 2019 and is a Regency romantic suspense and mystery novel. Suzan's Regency romantic comedy "A Most Handsome Gentleman," nicknamed #HOTCollins was among three reviewers' top-rated Jane Austen Fan Fiction books for 2017. Cover Wars Book of the Week and Amazon #1 bestseller "Letter from Ramsgate" was released in October 2016. It's a Regency romance with nail-biting drama. Both these books are teen-rated, aimed at anyone old enough to have enjoyed Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice." They followed Suzan's unique adult-rated Austen-inspired Regency romance with a mystery twist, "Alias Thomas Bennet," which was published in 2013. A chapter from "Alias Thomas Bennet was a finalist in the Sexy Scribbles contest under Historical Fiction in 2019. Her short modern romance "Delivery Boy" was featured in Meryton Press's 2015 Holiday anthology, "Then Comes Winter." The anthology was included on "Best of 2015" lists by three influential book review bloggers, and is suitable for readers of all ages.

Lauder's is fascinated with Regency fashion and editing and blogs about it. She lives with Mr. Suze half time on Vancouver Island and in Mexico and their cat joins them in both places.

Reviews

[J. W. Garrett · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Life belongs to the living, and he who lives must be prepared for changes.” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

It never occurred to me, until I read this story, that there was a lynch-pin in the canon version of the P&P story. Teachers are well aware of this phenomenon in the classroom. There is a hierarchy of influence or control… it is usually one student. The lynch-pin is someone that is necessary/central, in or to a situation or conflict, and has an effect, control or influence over said situation… an instigator or lieutenant, in other words. Often times, you can remove that person and the situation changes, even the atmosphere will change.

Thomas Bennet was the lynch-pin within the canon Bennet household. His indolent manner of handling things was reflected in his treatment of his wife and her response to him and external conditions [her nerves and needing salts or other such attention garnering devices]. Actions such as... his favor of his eldest daughters over his neglect of his silly younger daughters, his response to advice or warnings [against Lydia going to Brighton], his management of [or lack thereof] the Longbourn Estate [cause and effect, lower yields… lower income per annum], and the Longbourn financial situation, management of and/or mismanagement of household and estate funds [no savings for his daughters], added to the situation. Change him and everything changes. And that was exactly what happened. Once the canon Thomas Bennet character changed, his influence on Mrs. Bennet and his daughters… also changed the makeup of the family.

“I find the best way to love someone is not to change them, but instead, help them reveal the greatest version of themselves.” Steve Maraboli, Unapologetically You: Reflections on Life and the Human Experience

At first, we experience flashbacks of both the Bennet and the Lord Shelton story lines. It was hard keeping them straight. However, once we had a bead on the main story, we could progress.

As I read about the daily lives of the Bennet girls, it was like being in a house of mirrors that distort the reflection. There was a disconcerting feeling as I first started reading this book. The Bennet family was unlike any Bennet family in JAFF that we have read about before. It was, as one reviewer put it, an alternate universe. To me, it felt a bit like ‘Bizarro World’ or better yet… Stepford Wives. I kept thinking, who are these people? What did they do with the real characters? These automatons were just too perfect to be believed. They were beautiful, dressed beautifully, created their own fashions, intelligent, and proficient in all those areas where young ladies were considered accomplished. I kept scratching my head, as I read about their actions and behaviors.

Don’t get me wrong, but… really, you NEVER see the following words used in reference to the Bennet girls or their mother… ever: proper upbringing, under control, with dignity, politely, sense and honor, tasteful, proper lady and sense of propriety, just to name a few. And that included Lydia also, who along with Kitty, were not out in society… as was proper. See what I mean?

In fact, in this story, Lydia and Elizabeth spent a lot of time together. I almost called it an unholy alliance. But there you have it. And none of the girls were enamored with Wickham and his sob stories. In fact, they decided to warn their friends to not be swayed by him, as he didn’t seem sincere. OMG!! However, despite their caveat, ONE of their friends didn’t heed the warning… to her detriment. You stupid, stupid girl, what have you done?

Not all of the Bennet girls were perfect in their ways. Elizabeth Bennet, when in the presence of Mr. Darcy, simply could not help herself and became a menace to her place within the female sex. She was determined to best him in every way, intellect, chess, quest for knowledge of science, mechanical inventions and how things worked. I just wanted to tell her to shut—it—up! She got on my last nerve. Half the stuff she was questioning him about wasn’t even relevant as the innovations were disproved or discontinued. I thought the discussions were too in-depth, unnecessary and didn’t add to the story. Her intellect could have been demonstrated in another way.

Elizabeth said and did the most stupid things that were constantly getting her in trouble. If someone tells you that there might be trouble from Wickham, and/or that you are in danger… you should freaking LISTEN to what they have to say. Her stubborn independence nearly got her killed, hurt, maimed and/or accosted on more than one occasion. I wanted to tell Darcy… RUN… do not walk… run away from this foolish woman. She will drive you crazy, or get herself or you killed with her stubborn foolishness. You don’t need this. Dang… she just had to walk out alone. And, just so you know, I hope it leaves a scar… she deserves a forever reminder of her foolishness.

The ending and the epilogue was a bit sluggish and didn’t come to a smooth conclusion. There were still a few threads that could have ended more smoothly. I liked the story but didn’t love it.

Rating: MA-R: Mature Audience: R-rating: Contains scenes of a sexual nature. There was a brief scene of a sexual assault, an attack, a graphic, sexually explicit daydream, self-gratification, and sensual encounters. Yeah, it got a bit racy at times.

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook Edition Re-read

Variations can be such fun adventures off the map. This one asks the question 'what if Mr. Bennet was a different person?' How would this effect the P&P story? And folks, let me tell you, the answer to that is A LOT. I enjoyed the mysterious atmosphere around the Bennets that led to some amazing reveals as the story progressed.

I loved exploring a Bennet family and household where Mr. Bennet is not just clever, but dutiful, loving, industrious, firm, and has a lot of secrets. There was the trickle effect of a wife who has a tendency toward nerves, but keeps them well regulated with his help and thus can focus on her children, of a home and estate in much better condition so that the family circumstances aren't as bad, of daughters who are fundamentally the same, but have been guided and taught so that the good traits and skills learned shine.

The author let the sequence of events parallel events in the original story- the arrival of the party at Netherfield, the Assembly, arrival of Wickham and Collins, the Netherfield party departing to London, Hunsford, misunderstandings answered, Lady C and Wickham drama again.

But, not only does each scene alter greatly because the players are altered, there are also situations that arise. Because think if Lizzy and Lydia do not succumb to Wickham's wiles, he will turn them on someone else. And there are other changes that set off a new chain of events. It was clever how the author incorporated these with events that are recognizable.

And lest you think everyone is perfectly perfect and we don't have any pride or prejudice in sight, not true. Darcy has his pride though it isn't as severe because the Bennet aren't so objectionable. Lizzy has her prejudice toward Darcy's pride though she's not as blind as to not see through Wickham's woes and flirting. Caroline, Lady Catherine, and Mr. Collins are still amazingly full of folly to keep one entertained.

I think my favorite part of the book was Thomas Bennet. Shazam! He gave Darcy a run for his money in the hero department. This was definitely his story.

The story clips along at a good pace with moments of drama and suspense to keep things interesting. There are some disturbing elements of classical gothic darkness like the blackhearted ravishing Marquess in the beginning who is the catalyst for all that comes after. Wickham is much more dastardly, too.

I will say that the romance elements have some decided spice to them. Darcy and Lizzy are lustier versions though they keep to the correct side of the line. I enjoyed all the storylines that even include a romance for Mary and the continued romance of the older Bennets.

This was my first time with narrator Jacq Ainsworth and I delighted in her rendition of the character voices. She caught the tone of the story and captured gender, class, and individual traits in the characters so well that I was entranced and reluctantly set the story aside when I had to.

All in all, I had a fabulous time with this story that greatly varied from the original to do a fascinating 'what if' exploration of Mr. Bennet. Austenesque fans should really give it a go.

[Ree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Plot
Reviewed in Canada on June 2, 2019
I loved this variation’s storyline. We see minor glimpses of canon, but the story is oh so different. There is a touch of mystery without the angst. Good dialogue. I hated to see this one end.

May 15, 2021 - started and gave up on the audiobook. I didn’t care for the narrator. I’m continuing a re-read of the Kindle version.

Note: I shelved this as a “marriage of convenience”, but it pertains to Fanny Bennet, not ODC. Also, the hidden identity shelf refers to Thomas Bennet in this case—again, not ODC.

Lastly, this book describes a violent assault and rape, so be warned.

January 2, 2023 — Audiobook —Second listen.
Decided to give this narrator, Jacq Ainsworth, another try because this book is a definite all-time JAFF favourite. Her performance of the characters is good, but I feel like her cadence for the narrative parts of he book sound a bit too sweet and a mite sing-song like. I thought her Lady Catherine was spot on.

July 11, 2024 - Audiobook
At an increased playback speed, this narrator has grown on me.

[Sheila Majczan · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

As the author tells us in a clip at the end of this kindle book – this story was intended to be a variation on the Darcy & Elizabeth theme but the character of Mr. Bennet took over the tale and ran with it. So, as I was looking more for the original premise, I was a little disappointed that this was what most of the book addressed.

AND I do have to agree with the one other review on Amazon: the Bennet daughters in this story were just too perfect: everyone was well-bred, lovely, self-contained, well educated, self censoring, etc. I just can’t take in a Lydia who pauses and tells herself that was too brash, too enthusiastic, etc. Then there is Elizabeth, the scientist. Frankly, I got bored with descriptions of how things functioned and the theories behind each. And then we read those theories are also now out-of-date? I ended skimming through those sections. Her intelligence could have been stated in other ways for me. I always enjoy her discussions of current events, i.e., the Napoleonic Wars, or her debates about plays and/or poetry. (This must be a reflection of our author’s right brain/left brain orientation, but I could be wrong.)

The romances for both Jane and Elizabeth were mostly without the friction and misunderstandings we read of in canon. For me it went too smoothly. There do remain some of the same cantankerous characters and ne’er-do-wells from JA’s books so we aren’t taken unaware when they come on the scene. And why, oh, why does Elizabeth never seem to take those warnings about walking out alone seriously?

Then I have to agree with Tamra in her review on Amazon, that I really don’t wish to read about masturbation and/or rape: the latter of which is one reason I put off reading this book for so long. Yes, it was a major force in the actions of several men and this book would not have been the same without it, but there you have my opinion.

The main theme, obviously, is the assumption by other man of Mr. Bennet’s name…and other parts of his life. The story gives us a very justifiable reason for why this occurs and then also why it must remain a secret. The intrigue with which a certain peer arranges matters for present and future events is very well done. Ms. Lauder did her research here in making sure no strings were left dangling. Steps must be taken and events fall into place before pleasant revelations take place. And even then certain secrets are withheld.

Mr. and Mrs. Bennet have many a discussion about what can and may happen if they tempt fate by changing certain parts of their lifestyle after ~20-some years.

Do you believe we all have a twin out there somewhere? This story may reinforce that belief. Interesting alternate tale!

[Carole (in Canada) · Rating 3 out of 5]

My Rating: 3.5 *

I don't know if I would call this a variation...more like an alternate universe! The title alone gives away the premise of the story, however I found it unique in it's execution. The Bennet family have many secrets that only Mr. & Mrs. Bennet are privy to. The Bennet family members are altered because of these secrets. The tale that evolves is like a slow burning ember as details are released. Wickham is more unhinged while Miss Bingley and Mr. Collins are their usual selves with less impact...though they do try. Lady Catherine is as condescending and imperious as ever.

However, this is more a tale of Mr. & Mrs. Bennet than anyone, even our favourite couple. For me, I wasn't disappointed. I really enjoyed it. At times though, I found their life just a bit too perfect and the Bennet girls too saccharine. They were a model family with even Lydia being circumspect. However, this was an alternate universe!

[Sam H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this romance/mystery story.

There is enough intrigue to keep it going, during the lad in the middle of the book.

There are also some sections which weren't written quite as well as the rest of the story, especially near the end.

An who doesn't like a HEA wrapped up in a pretty bow!

[Ceri · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love reading variations on Pride and Prejudice and this one has an unusual variation; rather than change something in the timeline of the original novel, this story explores how different things could have been if Mr and Mrs Bennet were different. In this tale, Mr Bennet in particular is altered. He is much more energetic and hands-on with his family. Rather than retreat to his book room and let fate take its course he has been actively involved in his family’s upbringing which has meant a huge change in the Bennet sisters, and also their mother. Mrs Bennet is far more refined and restrained, as are the girls. Lydia particularly is unrecognisable! I couldn’t help but feel that this affected Elizabeth in a less positive way though - personally I am fond of her impertinence, which she is made to tone down. Her dialogue is missing some of the sparkle for me, I felt she was a little bland at the beginning of this story.

Darcy’s introduction into Hertfordshire society is also affected by this difference in Mr Bennet, who befriends the younger man after deciding to give him the benefit of the doubt over his behaviour to Lizzy rather than fan the flames of her dislike. Thus Lizzy and the Bennets don’t tell Hertfordshire of Darcy’s slight of Lizzy and he is more generally welcomed. The only person who is determined not to like him is Elizabeth, partly for the slight but more because she seems to have her nose put out of joint by him usurping her place as the ‘clever’ one. It makes her seem a little petty and immature, but she improves as the story progresses.

With their improved upbringing, when the Bennet sisters meet Mr Wickham at their aunt’s house neither Lydia or Lizzy are prepared to listen to him (although I’m not sure whether Lydia would have been there, as in this version she isn’t ‘out’ in society). Both girls are disturbed by his over-familiarity and report this to their father, along with Wickham’s sob story in relation to Darcy. Once Bennet mentions Wickham to Darcy he is informed of Wickham’s character and sets about warning society in Hertfordshire, thereby making an enemy of Wickham, who gets steadily more deranged as the story progresses.

You may have thought that this friendship between Bennet and Darcy would mean that all would be straightforward in the relationship between the elder Bennet sisters and their swains, but you would be wrong, as in this version Jane and Elizabeth are wards of the Bennets, taken on when they were very small children upon the death of their parents, whose identities have been kept secret. All of this unfolds in a mixture of events in the timeline of Pride and Prejudice and as flashbacks to past happenings, telling the story of Mr and Mrs Bennet when they were younger. I particularly liked seeing this different version of Mr and Mrs Bennet:
“He threw back his head and laughed heartily at the idea of his wife having an attack of the vapours.”
Not exactly the Bennets we know!

Other events follow the same pattern in Pride and Prejudice, such as Elizabeth visiting Rosings, but the visit is very different – she is on much better terms with Darcy for one, and there is also some danger lurking at Rosings and a turn of events that will affect the future of the whole Bennet family. The story has more than a dash of angst and there are some scenes which are uncomfortable to read. There was some behaviour I didn’t feel was likely, but even as I thought that often the author would explain why x was happening, it felt well thought through and reasoned even if I didn’t always think the characters would behave that way, especially people who were close to Wickham. Some of the dialogue is kept from P&P, which I thought was a nice touch, not always said by the original character, but I quite like that. I thought that this was an original idea for a variation and I’d be interested to read more books by this author. I'd rate this as 3½ out of 5.

[Meredith (Austenesque Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

What if Mr. and Mrs. Bennet both experienced traumatic and disturbing tragedies that forever altered their lives?

What if Mr. Bennet was indeed quiet and private, but unlike Jane Austen's character, he was a responsible parent and attentive husband?

What if there were secrets, secrets, and more secrets surrounding the Bennet daughters???

In many Austenesque novels we see Mr. Bennet depicted as negligent, acerbic, unsociable, and even unreasonable. Sometimes he is one of the antagonists and sometimes he is a secretly sentimental. In Suzan Lauder's debut novel, Alias Thomas Bennet, she places Mr. Bennet in a role he does not often have the good fortune to occupy – the role of hero!

In this novel Mr. Bennet takes more interest and care in his family. He doesn't make sport of or ignore his wife, and she in turn is a bit more sensible and economical. He isn't careless with his finances and management of Longbourn, which results in a very comfortable living situation and adequate dowries for his daughters. When Mr. Darcy comes to town, he finds the Bennets (especially Mr. Bennet and Elizabeth) to be very intelligent and pleasant company. How do the improved manners and abundance of propriety in the Bennet household effect the illustrious Mr. Darcy of Derbyshire...Is Elizabeth still inferior? Is marrying her still a degradation?

What an originative take on Pride and Prejudice! I enjoyed seeing how the different dynamics of the Bennet family impacted the storyline, and the happy and congenial atmosphere around Longbourn was heartwarming to witness. Much better than their usual disorder and disfunction! I enjoyed seeing Mr. Bennet be active in his daughters' lives and take steps to protect them from Wickham. While at times, I may have thought the Bennet family a little too near “pictures of perfection,” I overall enjoyed seeing them portrayed in a more favorable light for a change!

What I loved most about this story was that it had a duel plot – besides the present-day story of Mr. Bingley letting Netherfield Park, readers learn about the traumatic experiences Mr. and Mrs. Bennet faced twenty years ago and how those experiences brought them together through periodic flashbacks. For me, learning the secrets of their past and witnessing their falling in love was my favorite part of the story. More so than the Darcy and Elizabeth storyline! (I know, how shocking, right?!?) In fact, I would have loved to see more of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet! Especially Mrs. Bennet – if Mr. Bennet is this story's hero, I think she should be the heroine. :)

Unique and enthralling, Alias Thomas Bennet is a wonderful choice for readers who want to see a different side of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet! I sincerely hope we see more creative and unique novels pour from the pen of Suzan Lauder real soon!

Warning: Some sexual intimacy (between Darcy and Elizabeth) and sexual violence (not between Darcy and Elizabeth)

[Tamra · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. I had a hard time getting into this book but ended up enjoying it. Why couldn't I give it four stars? Well, the characters were so far from How Jane Austen portrayed them. I really missed Mrs. Bennett's nerves! I didn't like the rape scenes and the scene when Mr. Darcy finally decided to marry Elizabeth. I'm sorry but I really didn't need to read about Mr. Darcy pleasuring himself! TMI and EWWW!

[Lyn *GLITTER VIKING*]

Three stars is an embarrassment, so two stars is a party, right?

[Talia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish the author would write more and quicker. I loved this one. It was a fresh take that kept you guessing. A smart variation. Well done.

Reread: I just love this book! Surprised at the lower ratings. It is so much fun reading this different take on our characters. Mrs and Mr Bennet are faves again!

Reread: Love it but the scene with Mrs B at the ball was triggering this time.

[Michelle · Rating 1 out of 5]

I could not even finish this book. It was a completely different story than Pride and Prejudice, as I was aware before reading it, but it was not something that could capture my attention. All of the people's personalities were completely different than in P&P. I found that I didn't much care for anyone.

[Anna]

Alias Thomas Bennet is one of the most unique retellings of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice that I’ve come across so far in that it makes Mr. Bennet a main character. Suzan Lauder imagines what might have happened had Mr. Bennet been more careful with his finances and he and Mrs. Bennet had been more attentive to their daughters’ education and manners. In this variation, it’s Mr. Bennet’s secrets that put his daughters in danger.

The novel centers on the question “Who is Thomas Bennet?” Readers will question his identity as soon as Mr. Darcy questions whether they have met before and as soon as it becomes clear that all of the Bennet sisters are well-mannered, intelligent, and accomplished. Lauder takes readers back and forth in time to watch the evolution of Thomas and Fanny’s relationship and slowly reveals the truth of his identity. There are darker forces at work in this novel, but I prefer a mystery and a villain bent on revenge over a lighthearted retelling focused only on Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy’s romance.

Lauder’s portrait of the Bennets as a close-knit, intellectual family and Thomas and Fanny as sensible and completely in love was refreshing. Even without Mrs. Bennet’s nerves and outrageous comments all in the name of matchmaking and Mr. Bennet’s complete disregard of his youngest daughter’s lack of propriety, Lauder manages to put plenty of obstacles in the way of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth’s happiness. I loved that even when I thought I’d pieced together Mr. Bennet’s story, I hadn’t, and that even after all was revealed, I still had no idea how it would all play out.

Alias Thomas Bennet is a real treat for fans of Austen-inspired fiction, and I cannot praise its originality enough. Lauder’s portrayal of Mr. Bennet as a hands-on father and a man desiring a quieter, less important life than the one to which he was entitled is heartwarming, as is his relationship with Mr. Darcy. I was pleasantly surprised by Lauder’s elevation of Mr. Bennet to the status of hero alongside Mr. Darcy, but it made for a book that I simply couldn’t put down. Alias Thomas Bennet uses Austen’s beloved characters to show a different side of the Bennet family and emphasizes that one’s name is less important than one’s character.

Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric

I received a free copy of this book for review.

[Rita Deodato · Rating 4 out of 5]

Published at:

https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...

What if Mr. Bennet wasn’t the Mr. Bennet we are used to? What if his attitude was completely different? Would it affect the personalities of the rest of his family?

Susan Lauder penned a very different and interesting story with an innovative twist that changes everything.

In Alias Thomas Bennet the reader is invited to follow two different stories, the one of Mr. Bennet and his wife, and the one of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth, and the two are more intertwined than readers initially expect. As the story slowly unravels we start to understand all the connections, and the details the author had to bring to the story to make it work are really worth praising.

Without going too much into the storyline, because it wouldn’t be the same with spoilers, you’ll find in this novel a very different Bennet family with a moderate and affectionate Mrs. Bennet, an interventive and assertive Mr. Bennet, and with accomplished and proper ladies within the Bennet household.

I liked the idea behind this change because, after all, Lydia and Kitty’s attitudes are the result of the education and incentives they received from their parents, and Mrs. Bennet’s effusions are also the result of Mr. Bennet’s lack of interest, so if we have a very different Mr. Bennet, we are sure to have a very different household. Even if at times this family seemed too perfect, I loved knowing each one of these characters and seeing them talk with each other in such a fashion.

I also loved the mystery that slowly unravels in this story, and to be honest, I loved Mr. Bennet’s love story even more than Darcy and Elizabeth’s. Mr. Bennet’s story is interesting and captivated me until the end. We don’t see a lot of books focusing on the romance between Mr. and Mrs. Bennet and this was a refreshing change. Mr. Bennet is a great hero in this one.

The beginning of the book was very difficult for me because it has a rape scene, and I never like to read about that, but the story progresses rapidly and it doesn’t focus too much on it after it happens, so I was able to distract myself. Nevertheless, if that is not something you like to read about, be aware you’ll find it in the initial pages.

The writing style is compelling and in line with what I’ve previous found in this authors books, I was so enthralled by this story that I didn’t want to stop listening to the audiobook

Summing up, Alias Thomas Bennet is a well-written and innovative take on Pride and Prejudice that will show us a different side of Mr. Bennet, which will, in turn, change all characters in the story. It links beautifully two stories, spikes our curiosity and captivate our hearts. If you’re looking into a completely different plot with secrets, romance and mystery this book is for you.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

It took me a little while to get into this book, but once I did, I enjoyed it. It was wonderfully original, taking more than one fascinating turn. The writing style never truly clicked for me, but the story certainly did.

The book starts with interesting peeks into the background of certain important characters, one of them shockingly violent, before turning to Hertfordshire, where Netherfield is let at last. The rapid-fire POV switches and sudden changes in mood felt a little confusing and awkward to me at first, but I gradually got caught up in the mystery as the POV changes became less frequent and more natural.

This novel has some fascinating variations to the original P & P. The simplest of the what-ifs in this book is what if Mr. and Mrs. Bennet were a sensible couple in love with each other and caring towards all of there children. I loved this, particularly with views as to how the younger girls were different, and how Elizabeth was less hesitant to confide in her parents. The other twists you shall have to discover for yourselves, but I enjoyed them all, delighting in the sheer creativity of them even though a couple require a certain suspension of disbelief. I don't want to be too specific so as to avoid spoilers.

Mr. Bennet took center stage for most of the book and made for a surprisingly awesome main character. Darcy and Elizabeth had some pretty good moments as well, but the spotlight was all his. I enjoyed his deviousness, as well as the fact that he didn't particularly like being deceptive, even though he did it very well. The villains were less interesting, but they did turn the story in interesting directions, therefore putting the heroes in interesting situations.

Overall, I liked this book, the second half more than the first. It was interesting and entertaining, looking at Pride and Prejudice from a completely different angle.

I received an e-copy of this book as part of a blog tour in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Katherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the premise of this novel in that Mr Thomas Bennet is not really Thomas Bennet. Who is he? How did become Thomas Bennet? What will that mean for his daughters. In this P&P version Mrs and Mr Bennet are in love and the Bennet family is well behaved, with only the 3 eldest out in society and no vulgar, tasteless speech leaves the lips of Mrs Bennet. Darcy becomes friends with Bennet but only after he falls in love with Elizabeth will be discover Bennets true identity and what that means for a Elizabeth. Wickham still wants to wreck havoc and Caroline is as fake as ever. The reader will come to respect Bennet as the welfare of his girls drives him to secret his identity. I gave this novel a 3 due to the writing style - not a true Austen read and because I found the descriptions of an 'attack' too descriptive and I did not to be in bed with my characters (kisses and touches described in too much detail).

[Elin Eriksen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling, romantic, passionate and captivating read.
A little dry at the beginning but stick with it and you will not be disappointed.

Mr Bennet does not have the faults from canon which changes the story significantly.
Follows canon to an extent but a lot is not as it seems and a hint is given in the title.
I find it difficult to write a summary without spoiling your read so I will not attempt it. I will however reveale that ODC reach an understanding earlier than canon and the proposal was lovely albeit not totally free of insults...

Heartily recommend this book!

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Pride and Prejudice variation. Who is Thomas Bennet. Why does Darcy when visiting Netherfield believe he has met Bennet of Longbourn before? Here is a different Bennet family, not all sisters are out, Longbourn is prosperous and Mrs. Bennet is a loving mother and wife.
But what is the mystery behind this family? A re-read which although enjoyable was too much of a Elizabeth and Darcy story for me.

[Darlene Otet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it! Another great read by a friend author!

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up to 4 stars

[Lady Mercury · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating 3,5 Stars in total.

Review Audiobook:

I always love a good Not-a-Bennet Trope etc, and this was no exception now. It was well done and well explained with the early life and so on. My heart even broke for poor Mrs Bennet. 😢 What a start that was.

I must tell you though that I did not really like Elizabeth. It is said that she is clever and sensitive BUT apparently not so clever as to believe people when they warn her. She thinks Hey, what should happen to me? They care too much 🤦‍♀️ The second time she‘s much the same but even more careless.

As for Darcy, I really really like him!! And his friendship with Mr. Bennet was also refreshing.
Strangely enough, I have nothing to complain about Darcy.

About the other characters, Be aware Dear Readers, Wickham is up to no Good!!

I listened in 1,25 and 1,3 speed and finally found it agreeable. It was good but there are better narrators in my opinion.
BUT don‘t let that disuade you 😉 Every taste differs.

- A little Angsty
- Steamy
- about 11 hrs with 1,0 speed

Have fun!

[Reya Reychelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

If nothing else it was different enough to keep my interest from start to finish. Which truly is a distinction in a sea of likeminded JAFF. I throughly enjoyed it, though as common Bingley was forgiven too easily & Wickham got off too light for my tastes. I probably would have enjoyed a slightly different ending where everything was revealed, but that’s the Slytherin talking. The Bennet’s were happy & content as they were. Great read!

[Warmisunqu Austen · Rating 4 out of 5]

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La historia se inicia cuando el señor Bennet era apenas un adolescente y conoció a Fanny Gardiner. Luego cambia a la situación actual (es decir, 20 años después) que eran una familia de 5 hijas y su esposa, pero aquí hay importantes cambios, sus hijas son unas damas muy preparadas y educadas. No existe una señora Bennet caótica y desesperada por casar a sus hijas, sino por encontrar unos maridos adecuados. Tampoco será la típica gastadora compulsiva, sino muy ahorradora y preocupada de que sus hijas sean damas refinadas.

Las personalidades de las chicas Bennets son las mismas en la base, pero los rasgos negativos han desaparecido, es decir, no encontrará a una Lydia coqueteando con cualquier oficial sino que tendrá ese ímpetu lleno de energía, pero educada y refinada; una Kitty insegura pero estudiosa y con habilidades; una María, lectora voraz, sin asumir dogmas, y muy consumada en el piano y con otros instrumentos; las otras dos chicas serán como la historia original, pero un poco más preparadas. El señor Bennet tampoco será el padre y marido despreocupado, mordaz y burlón sino que será divertido, cariñoso y preocupado por su familia. La pregunta del millón ¿por qué esos cambios?... un hecho trágico y bastante dramático les pasó a Thomas Bennet y a Fanny Gardiner. Un encuentro con algunos personajes, creados por la autora, dará pie a ese cambio.

Lauder profundiza en las personalidades de cada miembro de los Bennet, detallando hasta donde extrapola cada rasgo de sus personalidades de forma positiva y, por supuesto, cómo esto cambia la historia original encajando los hechos significativos para no desviarse hasta que no queda más remedio.

Disfruté la sensatez y perspicacia con que la historia fue delineada, tomando en cuenta la variación introducida, Lauder sigue las líneas de la historia original, pero la hace suya al introducir en sus diálogos su propias interpretaciones, haciendo un contenido bastante ameno, dinámico y vivaz envuelto en un halo de misterio e intriga. He disfrutado del libro desde su inicio y se ha mantenido así a medida que iba avanzando en el contenido, sobre todo los diálogos tan bien hilvanados, ofreciendo más del entorno, de cada personaje y cómo la historia seguía un camino sensato según la variación.

Tengo que advertir que encontrará violencia sexual, intento de violación, intento de secuestro, descripciones explícitas de relaciones sexuales, por lo tanto la historia está destinada para público adulto. Abstenerse lectores suceptibles a este tipo de situaciones.

Esta variación tiene una constante dosis de intriga por secretos que van siendo desvelados a medida que va desarrollándose la historia, toma una ruta distinta después de Hunsford y siempre manteniendo el interés.

Estaba todo desarrollándose a la perfección hasta casi el final de la historia, que al intentar mantener el protagonismo del personaje Thomas Bennet se ve forzada su participación. A pesar de ello es interesante esta variación por la diferencia del carácter de los Bennets; cuando se desveló a qué se debía, fue el punto con el que tuve una lucha de sensaciones, no porque no estuviera bien contado o bien ajustado, al contrario, mi lucha interna fue porque -CUIDADO SPOILER- no era Thomas Bennet sino otro personaje, tenía algunas características físicas muy parecidas, incluso eran parientes, en cuanto al carácter, había semejanzas a Thomas Bennet, pero el otro personaje era un mejor padre y un mejor marido, que es lo que hace la diferencia. De allí el título Alias Thomas Bennet.

La verdad es que rara vez un libro me sorprende tanto como éste, Suzan Lauder es diligente con su contenido. Ver discutir a Elizabeth, el señor Bennet y Darcy sobre la teoría termodinámica fue muy aleccionador y divertido. Realmente recomiendo la lectura de este libro.

[Madenna U · Rating 4 out of 5]

This variation was so different because the Bennett family was completely under control! As the story unravels you learn of 'Mr Bennett' and the absolute love he has for his family. With no outrageous family and a friendly father figure, Darcy's usual objections are there but not as strong. Wickham plays the villain, but in a much darker manner. The reveal of Mr Bennett's history brings the story to an ending that I could not put down. The sweet epilogue made the finish even better.

This book is the story of Mr and Mrs Bennett with the usual cannon in the background. If I had one complaint it is the very flowery language about the dresses, lace, etc. At times, I felt like the traditional Bennett- no lace! That topic aside, I would recommend this book for the unique plot and the feels.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this novel. By this point in time after enjoying hundreds of novels relating to Austen's works something different really hits the spot at times. I loved the blending of the Bennet family. It really was a yours, mine and ours kind of story but the girls never knew all the details. I totally enjoyed the positive qualities in these people especially the Bennet siblings. Mr. Bennet/will the real Mr. Bennet please stand up was amazing. What a great father. How he works as a husband was very intriguing to me. He's not perfect of course but very sincere and caring to his wife Fanny. Example: "You have made two beautiful babies with me, and we have shared three others as if they belonged to us both. Our country life may not be desirable to others, but our felicity will be envied by all who see it." His searching Fanny's face, his tender touch, his appreciation of her beauty as an elegant married woman is beautiful in sentiment. Fanny does have her emotional outbursts but understandably so in this version. I think it's very romantic that Mr. Bennet reads to Fanny in Italian and helps her to learn some Italian and French as well as other things to boost her self esteem. What a treat. Lady Catherine is still here as well as most of the original cast. We could probably use a little bit more info about the Matlock side but they are still in here. Mrs. Younge is here as well and her role is a little more explained. Wickham is very dastardly but what would we do without a villain? The Bingleys are all present. Darcy and Elizabeth's personalities are very real. There were a couple times I didn't picture Elizabeth acting as portrayed but was it the old Elizabeth or the new one as written in this novel? I loved all the science and experiments mentioned. It was fascinating. The author did a great job describing the gardens (specific flowers), dresses, facial features, etc. which made it real. There were a few intimate scenes. Thankfully they were not overly graphic or descriptive but still I prefer none. This is one of the reasons I gave this novel a 4. I loved the suspense throughout the entire novel with so many possible outcomes for so many people. Yikes.. I especially loved the epilogue. The three toddlers mentioned were just impossibly perfect fitting for each family. One of my absolute favorite parts. This has a little of everything.

[Suzan Lauder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of course, after having gone through it 20+ times during the editing process, I think I qualify as having read it!

ETA: If you've read my reviews of other books, you know I'm fussy on the technical side. This was my first novel, and it shows in places. There are a few non-Regency words, telling, filter words, and head hopping: all the beginner flaws. But when I read it while Jacq Ainsworth narrated it for Audible, I was stunned by how excellent the novel really is overall. Its unique premise and subsequent well-written drama and other writing techniques are a standard I have to live up to as I write later works where I've learned to drop those crutches that I read in other JAFF.

[Lynn Char · Rating 5 out of 5]

One very interesting change and we have a while new adventure

I really enjoyed this variation. It was delightful to find a calm Mrs Bennet, along with her well educated daughters. The beginning is difficult but important to the storyline. Most of the angst was regarding Mr Bennet and his huge secret but that too was handled well. There were a few times where things were not clear but they didn't detract much from the story and there were few grammatical or continuity errors (whose box were they actually in at the opera?). Overall it was a believable, fun read that I will probably read again another day

[Helena Korin · Rating 4 out of 5]

An intriguing spin on Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Mr. Bennet is a much more effectual husband and father than he was portrayed to be, in the original version and I like him much better for it. Darcy finds himself playing an unexpected role in his relationship with his future wife, Elizabeth. There are not too many surprises with Wickham's character. What I found delightful, apart from the mystery which stays hidden through much of the story, is the level of sensuality in this version which is so unlike Jane Austen's. In hers the sensual details are left to the reader's imagination. Suzan Lauder gives a freer, more realistic portrayal. I found it a very enjoyable read.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the differences in this story from canon. Mr. Bennet is a very different father, from canon, who is energetic and actively involved in the raising of all five girls. He is also caring and supportive of his wife, who has common sense and isn't quite so nervous. Mr. and Mrs. Bennet hold secrets that could seriously effect the entire family's future. The biggest question, is everyone who they say they are? Read to find out. This book was very difficult to put down. I would recommend it to anyone who loves romance with a bit of intrigue.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am a huge fan of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE by Jane Austen & so was very excited to read this book. It's a quick, light & easy read. The best way I can describe it is P&P from another dimension. Much is the same, much is different.