Mary Bennett and the Bingley Codex by Joyce Harmon

Mary Bennett’s two elder sisters, Jane and Elizabeth, are happily married and ensconced in their husband’s estates. Naturally, Mrs Bennett turns her attentions to finding a husband for Mary, who is not at all keen to marry any time soon. She jumps at a chance to visit Jane and Charles and catalog Charles’s library – not just to escape her mother, but also because she loves books and learning.

Life is very pleasant with the Bingley’s, and Mary finds she’s appreciated like never before in her life. What’s more, the discovery of a strange book in the library introduces Mary to the world of magic, and the fact she has a propensity for it.

A charming tale with the characters from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.

Poor Jane Austen! There are hundreds of adaptations, sequels and reimagining of her books (although predominantly Pride and Prejudice). This book focuses on Mary Bennett, who is always sorely treated in movie and tv adaptations because of her love of book learning. Jane is also given an expanded role, and it is nice to see her shine outside of Elizabeth’s shadow.

I must admit that Pride and Prejudice is not my favorite of Austen’s works, but I do love the idea of mixing magic and the regency period. Add in books and libraries and this was a must read.

This book presents the characters and time period well, and while not up to Austen’s standard, continues the story in an engaging manner.

I’d read a few books like this, and I found it a superior example of its type.

My favorite part of the book was the magic! Mary’s love of books and learning is rewarded when she stumbles upon magic books in Bingley’s library. How exciting! I loved the magic, how it worked, and several details that were imaginative and a bit of fun considering the time period.

I look forward to continuing the series.

I award Mary Bennet and the Bingley Codex…