Introducing Mrs. Collins
- Judith D Collins
- Nov 7
- 6 min read
A Pride and Prejudice novel
By: Rachel Parris
Narrators: Rachel Parris, George Blagden
ISBN: 9780316602358
Publisher: Little Brown & Company
Publication Date: 11/04/2025
Format: Paperback
My Rating: 4.5 Stars (ARC)
Best known as the beloved friend of Elizabeth Bennet, Charlotte Lucas finally becomes the heroine of her own story in this heartfelt and mesmerizing sequel to Pride and Prejudice.
When Charlotte Lucas chooses security over romance, her eyes are wide open to the decision she is making. Marriage to Mr. Collins offers stability, if not passion, and she is determined to make the best of it. While Elizabeth Bennet turns away in judgment of her choice, Charlotte builds a life in Kent—one of duty, routine, and quiet contentment.
But everything changes when an unexpected visitor arrives at Rosings Park. A spark is lit, and an impossible longing awakened.
Torn between what she must do and what she truly desires, Charlotte finds herself at the center of a story she never expected to be hers. A tale of love, loss, and second chances, Introducing Mrs. Collins is for anyone who wondered if there was more to the sensible character we met in Pride and Prejudice. It is the story of a woman who had written herself out of her own life, only to learn it is never too late to find your own happy ending.
My Review
INTRODUCING MRS. COLLINS, a captivating new novel by Rachel Parris, is nothing short of marvelous!
Serving as a delightful sequel to Jane Austen's beloved "Pride and Prejudice", this narrative centers on Charlotte Lucas after her marriage to Mr. Collins (what a splendid surname). Readers will be enchanted by this refreshing retelling that beautifully explores the theme of second chances.
About...
Charlotte Lucas, known to Austen fans as the pragmatic and loyal best friend of Elizabeth Bennet, embarks on her own journey of self-discovery in this dazzling novel. Unlike her spirited counterpart, who marries for the intoxicating thrill of love, Charlotte opts for a marriage rooted in security, choosing Mr. Collins for the stability he offers.
The story unfolds with Charlotte, resolute in her decision, graciously accepting Mr. Collins's proposal. Mirroring the sentiments of Austen's original tale, Charlotte prioritizes a financially secure home over romantic aspirations. Settling into the serene yet monotonous confines of Hunsford Parsonage, she embraces the tranquil, predictable rhythm of her new life.
However, her quiet existence is abruptly disrupted by the arrival of an intriguing new acquaintance at the grand estate of Rosings Park, the imposing residence of the formidable Lady Catherine de Bourgh.
During her visits to Rosings, Charlotte encounters an unexpected visitor, later revealed to be a charming cousin of Mr. Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam. This enigmatic figure presents a refreshing perspective that challenges Charlotte's worldview and ignites a long-dormant yearning within her heart.
As the bond between Charlotte and this captivating newcomer deepens, she is compelled to confront the carefully constructed life she has embraced and the suppressed desires she has long ignored.
Torn between the expectations she feels compelled to uphold and the awakening of her true passions, Charlotte embarks on an emotional journey that may redefine her very essence.
My thoughts...
A captivating narrative unfolds as the author invites readers into the nuanced world of Charlotte Lucas, transforming her from a mere supporting character into the lively protagonist of her own tale. This enchanting story offers a compelling exploration of her journey toward self-fulfillment, reminding us that it is never too late to pursue happiness.
In "Introducing Mrs. Collins," Rachel Parris artfully shifts the lens from Jane Austen's beloved classic, reimagining the characters of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Collins to enrich the narrative centered on Charlotte. The novel meticulously weaves together Charlotte's struggles and ambitions within the constraints of her patriarchal society, illustrating her pragmatic decision to marry for security and stability in a world where such choices were often dictated by necessity rather than desire.
As the narrative unfolds, we witness Charlotte's courageous quest toward emotional independence, asserting her right to become "the heroine of her own story." This journey resonates deeply, as it touches upon the profound longing for a life that surpasses mere contentment, even if it means daring to reach for more than her initial choice.
The delightful storytelling delves into themes of love, loss, and the heartwarming promise of second chances, as Charlotte grapples with newfound feelings that awaken both hope and uncertainty.
The novel offers a captivating and refreshing lens through which to explore the lives of secondary characters from "Pride and Prejudice." Notably, Lady Catherine de Bourgh is depicted with newfound depth, emerging as a complex figure whose oppressive demeanor is intricately woven with threads of vulnerability and experience, inviting readers to empathize with her struggles. Similarly, Mr. Collins is explored in greater detail, allowing us to understand the intricacies of his character and the motivations that drive him, enriching our appreciation of their roles within the larger narrative.
Amongst the rigid walls of Rosings Park, it is the unexpected arrival of Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr. Darcy's charming cousin, that ignites a flicker of yearning within Charlotte’s heart. As the catalyst for her emotional reawakening, he challenges her conformity, revealing a world brimming with passion and possibility. Their connection blossoms despite the formidable obstacles that stand in their way, adding depth and complexity to Charlotte’s already tumultuous journey.
Lady Catherine de Bourgh remains a significant pillar in Charlotte’s life—an imperious and overbearing presence whose lofty ideals and incessant meddling serve as both a boundary and a motivation for Charlotte’s quest for self-discovery. Parris intricately layers Lady Catherine's character, exposing vulnerabilities that hint at her own struggles with power and societal expectations, thereby offering a richer understanding of her foil-like role in Charlotte's evolving narrative.
Capturing the stark reality of Charlotte's existence, Parris invites readers to witness a life where mere comforts fail to fill the void of emotional and intellectual connection, often navigating around the unwelcome presence of her husband. The burgeoning relationship with Colonel Fitzwilliam evokes an alternative existence—one filled with admiration and attraction—causing Charlotte to second-guess her previously deemed “sensible” marriage.
This juxtaposition compels Charlotte to confront the possibility that her choices may have led her astray from the vibrant life she yearns for, igniting a fervent desire to escape the monotony of duty and routine. The tender friendship that sprouts between her and Colonel Fitzwilliam evolves into a profound connection that urges her to confront her deepest desires, free from the constraints of societal expectations.
Caught between her obligations as a wife to Mr. Collins and the intense allure of Colonel Fitzwilliam, Charlotte finds herself ensnared in a web of conflicting emotions that challenge her pragmatism. The narrative poignantly interrogates the rigid social norms of Regency England, highlighting the stark contrast between marriages forged for financial security and the human longing for emotional authenticity.
Throughout this masterful retelling, deeper themes resonate: the quest for female independence in a deeply patriarchal society, the weight of societal expectations, gender inequality, the pain of grief, and the heart-wrenching experience of child loss. Ultimately, Charlotte must confront whether adhering to societal norms has hindered her pursuit of genuine happiness.
I found great joy in this reimagining, as Parris vividly unveils Charlotte's character, revealing a tapestry of hidden strengths, vulnerabilities, and complexities. In crafting a heroine who dares to seek more than the life she settled for, Parris enriches the narrative in ways that transcend the original.
In summary, Parris takes a minor character from Austen's esteemed work and weaves her into the fabric of her own deserving story, recontextualizing the existing protagonists and antagonists to illuminate a fresh, intricate perspective on the societal realities of the era.
Recs...
Austen enthusiasts will delight in this new twist, flocking back to characters we longed to know more about.
Special thanks to Little Brown & Company and NetGalley for graciously providing an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub date: Nov 4, 2025
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Praise
“An interesting and surprising look at a classic story and an often-forgotten character.” ―Kirkus Reviews
“Funny, then suddenly deep, then deeply romantic. A marvelous and mighty literary magic trick. It’s genuinely funny–brilliantly plotted, and then suddenly it opens up into deep and subtle and unexpected emotions. Rather like the work of another author I love, born 250 years ago.”
―Richard Curtis
“The perfect Austen fix. Charlotte Lucas of Pride and Prejudice finds her sensible marriage ticking along, until Cupid takes aim. Delightful, beguiling and accomplished!”
―Janice Hallett, author of The Appeal
“Genuinely funny and moving. I enjoyed every second of Introducing Mrs. Collins. It was like spending time with old friends.”
―Alice Winn, author of In Memoriam
About the Author
Rachel Parris is a BAFTA-nominated comedian, musician, actor and improvisor, best known for her viral segments on The Mash Report and Late Night Mash, which have garnered over 100 million views. Her TV appearances include Live at the Apollo, Would I Lie to You?, QI and Mock the Week, and she is a regular guest on Radio 4's The Now Show and I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue. She co-hosts the popular podcast How Was It for You? with her husband Marcus Brigstocke. Rachel also wrote and presented a Jane Austen comedy programme, Austensibly Feminist, about how to view Jane Austen as modern feminists.
Rachel is a founding member of the critically acclaimed improv comedy group Austentatious, in which the all-star cast invent a play based on a title suggestion from the audience. As a touring comedian she has performed her award-winning musical comedy to sell-out audiences across the UK. READ MORE
