Summary Provided by the Author:
On the summer of 1861, six year old Serena Fallows suffered humiliation in the hands of the Duke of Norton. So what's she supposed to do when they meet years after? Why, throw a shoe at one of the most respected gentlemen in English society of course!
W.S.'s Reviewing:
Fresh and well articulated, "Of Dukes and Peasants" is the new P&P with spunk and a more dynamic supporting cast. Lenah C. creates a smooth transition from hate to love in 38 short chapters of this novella. Although not as historically correct as one would hope, it is the closest I've seen an author come to Jane Austen's authentic works. I have a hard time imagining people having the names Derek, Serena, and Alvin. However, I feel like the balance of the characters' personalities are well done, although I would have liked to see more of the antagonists. Some side plots felt unfinished, especially with the handsomely evil Daniel's womanizing acts that causes unwanted changes in the situations between Derek and Serena. Also, there could have been more appearances of secondary characters. Serena seems like a 21st century girl, but as the story progresses and she learns more of the society she is born into, she becomes refined and a less whiny character. As for Derek, he is the stereotypical male hero who hates the girl and finally falls for her. However, Lenah C.'s choice for him to court Victoria (the polar opposite of Serena) was brilliant, steering him into the path of "she's not my 'type' but I'm still in love with her." I would have wished for more plot twists and more historical fluff, but "Of Dukes and Peasants" is worthy of a nice relaxing afternoon and a cup of British tea.
