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Death Comes to Pemberley    by P. D. James Amazon.com order for
Death Comes to Pemberley
by P. D. James
Order:  USA  Can
Vintage, 2013 (2011)
Hardcover, Softcover, CD, e-Book

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* * *   Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth

Like Jane Austen? Like mysteries? Then P. D. James' latest novel is the very book for you. James picks up where Austen left off in Pride and Prejudice with Elizabeth and Darcy in the year 1803 living at Darcy's luxurious estate with their two sons Fitzwilliam and Charles. Elizabeth's sister Jane and her husband Bingley live nearby.

There is talk of the matrimonial prospects of Darcy's sister Georgiana, as well as planning for the annual autumnal ball. Alas, the ball is not to be. A coach arrives at great speed carrying Elizabeth's sister Lydia (who is not welcome at Pemberley), screeching that her husband Wickham has been murdered. Wickham was banned from setting foot on Pemberley's grounds. Ever. But murdered?

We find that it is not Wickham who was murdered, but there has definitely been a killing. Who then?

James has taken a beloved tale and moved on in its characters' lives. I must mention here that there are many characters and at times I found if I didn't pay close enough attention, I had trouble keeping them all straight. It might just be my problem, but I feel I must caution readers in case they too suffer my affliction.

James writes as though Austen is looking over her shoulder with approval as she continues Austen's story. P. D. James is well-recognized in her own right, having an extremely popular series in print and filmed for TV. She was created Baroness of Holland Park and is highly respected in her field. Death Comes to Pemberley is a real treat and one not to be missed.

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