Giveaway + Review of Noelle Chesney's Debut Novel, "All That This Entails"

After seeing the book cover reveal on one of my favorite JAFF blogs and reading the summary blurb, I was excited to get my hands on author Noelle Chesney's debut novel, "All That This Entails." In support of the relatively recent launch of the Jane Austen State of Mind blog and Facebook page, our friends and Quills & Quartos publishing provided me with an advanced review copy of this lovely book in exchange for an honest review. Its release date is Monday, December 14 and available through Amazon.

I need to provide a little context.  I almost exclusively read JAFF via Kindle. On a whim, I chose a hard copy book in lieu of an eBook just to change things up a bit. I'm so glad I did! This change of pace only added to my reading experience. The pic on the right is evidence of just that--the view of the book as I lazily read in bed, book light shining, snug as a bug in a rug under my blue fleece blanket. 

The pace and flow of this book was such that I did not feel compelled to plow through it in one sitting but could instead enjoy it in pieces. It was the perfect book for reading a few chapters each night as I fell into the arms of Morpheus. 

First, I must gush a bit about the physical book itself. The book has an almost velvety feel to it. The cover art may one of the most gorgeous images I've seen in Austenesque fiction. Cover design can make or break a book for me. I have trouble taking an author seriously who uses cheesy romance novel, Fabio-esque cover "art" (notice is use that term loosely). Kudos to Noelle for her taste in this regard! The colors are vibrant and the country estate background idyllic, stately, and grand. It helped to set the tone for the book-- transporting me from the muted tones of the 1995 BBC adaptation of Pride & Prejudice to a technicolor dream world. 

The trope of the book, which focuses on a newly elevated Elizabeth (and Bennet family as a whole), has become one of my favorites. It puts me in mind of other JAFF books in this vein that I've greatly enjoyed including Mistress of All (Lory Lilian), On Equal Ground (Elizabeth Adams), Torn (Lory Lilian), and The Best Part of Love (Amy D'Orazio). I'm sure there are many others. As such, All That This Entails is in good company indeed! I find stories that even out the disparity in social standing between Darcy and Elizabeth to be refreshing. Without the impediments of unequal rank and societal expectations, Darcy is free to shine and unreservedly demonstrate his innate goodness and charm. In stories like this in which Elizabeth's change in situation results in her outranking him, he also often exhibits endearing insecurities.

I believe all Austenesque fans have their  preferred "type." I am typically a fan of variations that are full of heart-wrenching angst (preferable with Darcy on his knees or wallowing in drunken self-pity) culminating in an epic happily ever after for dear couple. That is not to say that I universally dislike variations that don't precisely fit this mold. This book is more even keeled and slower paced overall. The slower pace provides the opportunity to see Elizabeth and her family navigating the intricacies of the ton. Be it shopping excursions or dinner parties, readers are provided with a detailed glimpse into the life inside of a dukedom. It's intriguing.

One of the things I enjoyed most about the novel is how the Bennets responded to their elevated circumstances. The two eldest Bennet daughters were at once in wide-eyed awe of their new situation naturals. Unsurprisingly, they pulled off all social obligations with finesse and aplomb. What was most surprising to me was how seriously Mr. Bennet took on the role of Duke, and how attentive he suddenly was to his daughters' comportment, development of appropriate manners/accomplishments, and future security. I love it when authors paint a picture of a Mr. Bennet who, for whatever reason, changes his lackadaisical ways to the benefit of all. Another great example of this is Mr. Bennet's transformation in the wonderful book Unwilling (Elizabeth Adams). 

I've already hinted at Darcy's reaction to the Bennet's ascension. While he does demonstrate some endearing insecurities, he mostly acts with determination to win the prize of Elizabeth's hand. He gets to play the game of suitor on home turf and according to familiar terms. The etiquette and social niceties expected in high society are second nature to him. He is assertive and charming towards Elizabeth, and she is increasingly receptive to his overtures. Their courtship is relatively smooth, but Darcy does have competition. The best example of this results in an enthralling fencing match through which he is able to show his physical prowess. Meow! Later, he gets the chance to come to her rescue. One can never go wrong with a Hero Darcy.

I hope this review provides a fair, compelling glimpse into All That This Entails. I'm always excited to highlight an author's first published work, because I hope to one day write one myself (Hello, bucket list)! Ms. Chesney's book is relatively low in angst, and it is also a clean variation. It is full of colorful descriptions that allow the reader to see the workings of the ton through the eyes of outsiders. Most importantly of all, Our Dear Couple find a satisfying happily ever after!

This time around, my giveaway does not include an eBook but, rather, a piece of my very own handmade Pride & Prejudice-themed jewelry. This giveaway is open to international readers. To be considered for the giveaway, one must a) comment on the blog post and b) Enter the drawing here. A winner will be chose on December 20!

Good luck and happy reading!