Jumping into the sweet familiarity of The Heart of Bennet Hollow by Joanne Bischof Dewitt was like taking a sweet sip of nostalgia. With characters reflecting those in the classic novel written by Jane Austen, this Pride and Prejudice retelling reintroduces the beloved Regency era family. Though it stays true to the original novel, there are enough nuances to make it stand on its own. The different setting and slightly tweaked plot allowed the retelling an air of unpredictability that made it a delightful read.

Reticent Mr. William Drake, the wealthy coal mining baron, and farmer’s daughter, Lizbeth Bennet, spark romantic tension, paying homage to those from Austin’s novel. Taking you into the heart of Virginia, the narrative paints a picture with charming seasonal descriptions. Each chapter is defined by its historical flair, exploring the intricacies of coal mines and trains as the backdrop. The story cleverly reimagines a familiar narrative, but its plot is enriched by the palpable tension between social classes and the fight for land. The characters, while familiar, bring a charming flavor of their own to the story.

Even though I sensed how it would end, the curiosity about how we would reach that end kept me turning pages. Definitely a sweet, cozy read for lovers of classic fiction and Jane Austen fans.

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