Death Comes To Pemberley.

P. D. JAMES

Publication: Faber and Faber, 2011, London

First edition. Signed by the author on the title page. Fine in fine dust jacket. "P. D. James has often quoted "Pride and Prejudice" as being her favorite novel. Over the years, there have been many writers who have attempted sequels or mysteries, using characters from "Pride and Prejudice", but none with the success that has been managed in this novel. It is Friday the 14th of October, 1803. England is at war with France and Pemberley is preparing for the annual Lady Anne ball, named after Darcy's mother, the sister of Catherine de Burgh. There are characters we know already at Pemberley - Darcy and Elizabeth of course, Bingley and Jane, Captain Fitzwilliam, now a viscount, and Darcy's sister Georgiana. There are also new characters, amongst them a lawyer friend of Bingley's, Mr. Henry Alveston, who wishes to restore his family fortune and estate in Surrey. It is a windy evening, and there is a sense of preparation and also a slightly uncomfortable atmosphere between Captain Fitzwilliam and Mr. Alveston, who are both competing for Georgiana's attention. Later, a chaise comes lurching and swaying towards the house. Nobody else is expected and to everyone's surprise, Lydia falls out, calling there has been a murder!" A brilliantly crafted detective story.