From the Hedgerows to Windsor

A Pride and Prejudice Variation

By: Eselle Teays

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

“This Work Is, By His Royal Highness’s Permission, Most Respectfully Dedicated, By His Royal Highness’s Dutiful And Obedient Humble Servant, The Author.”
Underneath the dedication was a line written by the Royal Librarian during the Regency, Mr. Stanier Clarke: ‘A Scribbler: The Honorable Miss Elizabeth Bennet.’
What is the story behind this novel, which was distinguished enough that the Prince Regent, later George IV, requested a dedication to himself? Was the author from the peerage, or did she earn the title?
—Prologue, From the Hedgerows to Windsor
After Hunsford, Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy miss each other at Pemberley. Then tragedies befall the family—Lydia Bennet’s elopement and the subsequent death of Mr. Bennet because of a weak heart. His widow and defenseless daughters are forced to move to a cottage not even shielded by hedgerows. Meanwhile, Mr. Darcy has become philosophical about his views on love after witnessing the carnage of war on the Continent while searching for the severely wounded Colonel Fitzwilliam. How can Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth find their happily ever after when the chasm between them has become impossible to cross? Elizabeth’s literary brilliance, born out of anguish and desperation, will lead not only to the Prince Regent’s approbation but also to the means of uniting them. Obstacles abound until the very end—within the impenetrable walls of Windsor Castle, home to the mad King George III.
In this third novel, Eselle Teays has once again taken the beloved cast of characters from ‘Pride and Prejudice’ out of the unvaried environs around Longbourn and Meryton to the wide, wide world of Regency England. Along the way, they will encounter a myriad of historical persons and events, from Royals (alive and dead) to famous generals to a bluestocking heiress and a celebrated author, all of whom have the potential to change their lives. You will love to accompany Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy on this journey from the Hedgerows to Windsor.

Did not care for virtual voice

The story was realistic and had an interesting premise, but I did not care for the virtual voice. No differences in characters' voices were noticeable, The reading speed never changed. Interesting first experience with AI. Let's hope the next attempt shows less monotonous narration.

Excellent Vagary

I enjoyed the reimagining of the original version. I have read or listened to so many stories in this genre and the ones I like most are the farthest from original. Who wants to read the same story over and over again… This was a great effort by the author. Satisfying ending and interesting throughout. I am not a fan of VV but I didn’t hate it. Good story that I can easily recommend.

Wonderful P&P Variation

Yes it’s VV narration, but that’s the only thing barely affecting this amazing P&P variation. Put it on 1.2 speed and never look back.

This variation is worth a listen, because it’s an entirely new spin on the original. Lydia is disgraced, Mr Bennett dies, and indeed the Bennett women are tossed out. But, with Mr. Bennett’s rare book collection and Elizabeth’s writing ability, the ladies aren’t exactly in the hedgerows.

I enjoyed a glimpse into royalty, society, what the ladies and gentlemen were reading during that time, and the unique way Darcy did indeed rescue Lydia’s reputation.

The HEAs for so many of our favorites were a fun journey to watch unfold. This book is enjoyable.

I of course didn’t give stars for narration, because that wouldn’t be fair to the phenomenal human narrators we know and love. Still. This book is a joy and I recommend it.

Intriguing Excellence…toning deaf to the AI….& Appreciating a top (5) Variation…

The death of Mr B very sad but necessary…Lizzy’s consoling him imperative. Mrs B as expected took all the oxygen of his last days. Our brilliant heroine as usual spread her Wings & totally rises to the task of being better than any prodigal Son. She is just as magical as we all crave & becomes the “Keeper of the Robes”, entices Darcy once more & creates the world of happiness& joy for all (4) sisters & finally constructs a turn-around for Mrs Bennet, eliminated her “so called hysteria & need for her “PEAKS!” Just listen to story, Not AI Presentation.

Surprisingly Decent VV Narration and VERY Good Story

I very much liked this variation of P&P. It was well developed and interesting. It would have been 4.5 (or even 5) rated with human narration, but the VV for this story was better than most I’ve listened to.

Possibly a good story?

Virtual voice killed this. Got lost on which characters were talking. Many characters, almost too many moving parts. Could have developed a better story if not spread so thin.