The Secret Life of Miss Mary Bennet

Katherine Cowley

Apr 2021 · The Secret Life of Mary Bennet Book 1 · Tule Publishing

About this ebook

A 2022 MARY HIGGINS CLARK AWARD NOMINEE

In Jane Austen’s revered Pride and Prejudice, Mary, the middle sister, is often passed over. Until now…

Upon the death of her father, Mary Bennet’s life is thrown into turmoil. With no fortune or marriage prospects, Mary must rely on the kindness of her relatives. When a mysterious late-night visit by an unknown relative—a Lady Trafford from Castle Durrington—leads to an extended stay and the chance for an education, Mary gratefully accepts the opportunity.

But even as she arrives at the castle, she’s faced with one mystery after another. Who is Lady Trafford really and what is she hiding? Do her secrets and manipulations place the small seaside community at risk of an invasion by Napoleon Bonaparte? Always curious, Mary sets out to discover the truth. But when she discovers the dead body of a would-be thief she outed prior to her father’s funeral, Mary jeopardizes her position at the castle and her family’s good name in her quest for the truth.

Never underestimate the observation skills of a woman who hides in the background.

Ratings and reviews

Ths is Mary's story. She is the middle child and after her father died she is left to have family look after her. When Lady Trafford offers her place to stay, she takes her up on it. Now comes the mystery and adventure. What is Lady Trfford really doing besides giving her lessons to help her? Can she figure it out? What will Lady Trifford do if she fins out?. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

In this Pride and Prejudice sequel Mr Bennet has died, and during her nighttime vigil Mary receives a visit from unknown relations, introduced as Lady Trafford and her nephew Henry Withrow. Lady Trafford invites Mary for a visit to their home of Castle Durrington in Sussex to be educated in various subjects. But mysteries surround her. Can they be resolved. This is Mary of canon, struggling with herself, the interactions with other people, and the circumstances of her current life. A delightful and entertaining well-written historical mystery. A wonderful start to the series.

Definitely worth reading twice. Unexpected twists and turns keep the suspense ratcheted up. Great character development and fast paced action. Puzzlers will enjoy trying to piece together the clues.