“A Match For Mary Bennet” by Eucharista Ward Book Review

By admin, on October 26th, 2009

About the Book:

A unique and inspirational Pride and Prejudice sequel that will resonate with all readers who can relate to Mary Bennet’s determination to live according to God’s wishes

Written by a Franciscan nun, this is a sympathetic tale of the middle Bennet sister from Pride and Prejudice. Pious Mary Bennet tries to do her duty in the world as she thinks God envisions it.

Initially believing (mistakenly) that her sister Elizabeth married well only in order to provide for her sisters, Mary is happy to be relieved of the obligation to marry at all so that she can continue her faithful works.

But she begins to have second thoughts after further studying marriage through her sisters’ experiences as well as spending time with two young men. One is a splendid young buck whose determined courtship must have ulterior motives; the other is a kindly, serious young clergyman whose friendship Mary values more and more. One day she realizes that God very much made man and woman to be together…but which is the man for her?

Review:

This book is centered around the middle Bennet sister Mary. Never wanting to marry, she was thrilled that two of her sisters satisfied her mothers’ wishes by marrying wonderful men and relieving her of that duty. She was always devoutly religious and was thankful that she could now focus on that. Although her mother still wished for her to find a good man she had no such wish. She was content with her books and music, and saw no need for involvement with men to make her feel complete.

But, this viewpoint changes as she meets Stephen Oliver. Stephen is looking to be a minister…what could be more perfect? But, Mary isn’t even sure she likes him, at least at first. Will her feelings change? And will he help break down the hardened heart of Mary and allow her to see that love is a wonderful thing? Or will that feat fall to James Stilton, someone who Mary never imagined having feelings for, but who slowly starts to win her over. But, why is he so eager to have her hand in marriage? There must be an alterior motive, or so she believes.

For the most part I really enjoyed this book. I am not an overly religious person so I did struggle slightly with that part but I did find it a good read.