Ever After End

A Pride and Prejudice Variation

De: Caroline Cartier

Narrado por: Elizabeth Grace, Harry Frost

In this delightful "Pride and Prejudice" variation, fortune takes a surprising turn for the Bennet family when Elizabeth Bennet wins a lottery, securing her family's financial future, even as Elizabeth learns that every blessing comes with curses of its own. A decision of Mr. Collins improves fortunes even more for Jane Bennet, who finally feels free to focus on her own happiness. However, fate shifts once more when the Bingley party never arrives at Netherfield. Instead, they settle at The Gables, an estate in the charming village of Highbury.

Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy cross paths with the ladies at Ever After End, a grand estate owned by the enigmatic and benevolent Theodosia Darlington, who throws matchmaking house parties for select marriage minded individuals each summer, and whom Darcy calls godmother. Despite their best intentions, to assist Mr. Darlington with an estate matter, both gentlemen soon find themselves captivated by the spirited Elizabeth and the serene Jane. As other guests, eager for matches, weave webs of admiration and competition, the peaceful countryside of Somerset becomes a stage for surprises, misunderstandings, and unexpected unions.

Away from the familiar pressures and prying eyes of Meryton, Elizabeth and Darcy's sparks ignite their interest in one another, while Jane and Bingley face their own journey to happiness. Amid the lively games, morning strolls, and lingering glances, true love emerges in a tale of wit, charm, and second chances, proving that the path to happiness is often unpredictable—and ever enchanting. "Ever After End" invites listeners to a world where fortunes rise, hearts awaken, and love blossoms in the most unexpected of places.

©2025 Caroline Cartier (P)2025 Caroline Cartier

Sweet fun!

I thought this was a sweet fun book. The book unfolds in a new way and utilizes characters from other Jane Austen stories. Harry Frost and Elizabeth Grace as the narrators were superb

Wandering start—wonderful party and finish.

Ever After End is one of those stories that tries to do too much in the beginning, but I still found plenty to enjoy. Although I never quite felt the Emma/Highbury section, when the house party at Ever After End begins, the whole tone shifts in a positive way.

The party itself was a highlight—fun, romantic, and full of great character moments. I especially enjoyed this version of Mary Bennet, and I even loved Caroline Bingley’s portrayal. Elizabeth and Jane’s changes in fortune were handled well throughout, although they experienced disappointment in their parents.

The narration is excellent. Harry Frost always performs Darcy in a way that really suits the character—controlled and a bit guarded as the writer warrants it, but when Darcy’s emotions break through, Harry definitely delivers them. Elizabeth Grace shifts between British and Southern accents so smoothly it appears effortless. Their timing and chemistry are spot on—an easy five stars for the performance.

There were some lovely turns of phrase, too. This one was particularly swoon-worthy:

“There are countless words penned within the volumes of my library, and yet none could adequately capture the tumult of my heart when you are near.”
Elizabeth replies, “And have you discovered the ending, Mr. Darcy?”
To which he says, “Only this, Miss Elizabeth. That should fate be kind, I would spend a lifetime in pursuit of each chapter we might write together.”

If you enjoy Regency house parties, light drama, and a bit of a crossover feel, this one’s worth a listen—especially for the narration. Just be prepared for a slightly busy start. Also… whatever happened to Wickham?

With so many interesting characters and ideas, I felt the story could have been streamlined a bit. There were so many ideas early on that it felt too busy, and a tighter focus might have made it easier to stay with the heart of the plot. I really felt this could have been developed into two separate variations. I’ve said it before—sometimes less is more. I definitely enjoyed it though and do recommend it.

Light, Pleasing, and Original

Harry Frost and Elizabeth Grace provide superb performances of this light, pleasing, and original JAFF offering.

This low angst story presents a different path for our dear couple to overcome their pride and prejudice, but with the same desirable result of an HEA. That different path includes a reversal of fortune for the Bennets and the addition of Austen characters from Emma and Mansfield Park via Mr Bingley leasing in Highbury instead of Meryton and a matchmaking houseparty held by a new character connected to Mr Darcy. Due to this different journey, we are treated to a unique story arc for Miss Bates, a lovely redemption for Miss Bingley, and blessedly little time spent with Mr Wickham and Lady Catherine.

If you prefer JAFF that sticks closer to the original works of Jane Austen, then this will likely not be for you.