“A Dutiful Son” by Kelly Miller

What an exquisite delight it was to immerse myself again in the wonderful Austenesque atmosphere created by Kelly Miller! In this “Pride and Prejudice” variation, I found everything I love Jane Austen’s original books for.

As a true fan of Jane Austen, I have a habit to reread her six full novels. I must confess, I’ve read “Lady Susan” only once, and it just doesn’t feel like I’ll reread it ever again. Austen books are my comfort reads. The ones you get snuggled with in your favourite blanket sometime in mid-February when the daylight makes a fleeting appearance and you need something to stir up your frozen spirit. But after a couple of decades of this practice, I can recite these books almost by heart. So, I’m deeply grateful to Kelly Miller for writing books that capture the true Austenesque atmosphere perfectly and have the same vibes as the original works.

In “A Dutiful Son” Mr Darcy’s father is alive. And despite having his son’s best interest at heart, he presents him with a dilemma, which, for a responsible and sensible person like Fitzwilliam Darcy, it wouldn’t be so easy to solve. Besides, as a side effect of Mr Darcy’s changed views on people of his class communicating with those with a lower status, vulnerable Georgiana’s spirits are in danger.

The story begins with the Pemberly patriarch finding out about Wickham’s dishonourable behaviour towards Georgiana. He is full of rage and regrets, and he blames himself for having allowed it to happen. From now on, George Darcy demands from his son to stop indulging in fraternisation with those from a lower class. And it happens right before Mr Darcy meets the lady who is about to steal his heart. He is forced to admit the unavoidable truth: “In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you,” Jane Austen, “Pride and Prejudice”.

But can a man of his standing and upbringing go against his father’s wishes?

“A Dutiful Son” by Kelly Miller is pure joy for all Jane Austen and “Pride and Prejudice” fans. You’ll get leisurely walks and horse rides amidst the picturesque countryside, balls and dinners in grand mansions, matrimony schemes discussed in elegant sitting rooms.

I’ve read all of Kelly Miller’s books, and I am eagerly waiting for more.