Audiobook review: In Westminster’s Halls by Don Jacobson
When provided the opportunity to wade into the fray regarding a government bill on the slave trade, a country squire, a wealthy landed gentleman, an impassioned young woman, and others are must make a choice about standing for right even if faced with malicious personal attacks and danger. Don Jacobson, a long-time familiar and favorite author, combines a pivotal social issue with Jane Austen’s classic Pride & Prejudice to create a variation both intellectually and emotionally impactive. Narrator Benjamin Fife doesn’t miss a beat giving the listener an enrichment to an already stellar tale.
With careful historical research that adds depth to the book, the author takes many of the characters and some of the key plot elements from Pride & Prejudice and sets it in the momentous period when British Parliament was inflamed with debate whether the government should make it illegal to traffic in slaves. Real life figures like Thomas Clarkston and others with the power for change peppered the story which I found a fascinating element.
The focus includes suspenseful historical and sparkling romance elements of the plot, but in a way where they complement rather than divide the reader’s attention. Elizabeth Bennet and her father are in London helping to rally support for the bill before Parliament on the Abolitionist side and one key figure who can sway the vote is wealthy, well-connected Fitzwilliam Darcy. Unfortunately, Darcy uncharacteristically insults Elizabeth in the worst way in their brief first encounter leading her open to questioning his honor and his integrity especially when another man insidiously uses half-truth and lies to indicate Darcy is faking and is really pro-slavery and the commerce slavery brings to some.
Meanwhile, a powerful group opposed to the slave trade bill recognized Darcy as the key and send his long-time nemesis to use his younger sister’s mistake to bring him to heel. Darcy has to choose between duty to family or personal honor if he and his cousin, the redoubtable Colonel Fitzwilliam and his men can’t find a way to get to wicked Wickham in time.
He’s also deeply chagrined when he learns his error regarding the Bennets and realizes the attraction and respect he feels for Elizabeth Bennet will likely never be returned after what he said to her on first meeting. But, perhaps time and truth of his character and actions will convince her and give him a second chance.
There is great suspense and building conflict in this one that keeps the listener tuned in and reluctant to set aside the earbuds, but I confess that I did find a couple little things mildly off-putting in this might, though verbose piece. The first encounter for the romance pair felt like drama for drama’s sake and the subsequent encounter as well. Out of character for the way both characters had already been described. But, this was not extended so didn’t overwhelm the romance that built right along the side of the main conflict of getting enough votes to pass the bill. I appreciated the display of mutual respect and understanding rather than just attraction displaying how love came to Elizabeth and Darcy. Loved how that all came alongside the action against the anti-abolitionists to a climax with further peaks of action and suspense like a good legal thriller.
In Westminster’s Halls finished with a large and luxurious epilogue showing what came after for all the principal and minor characters in Don Jacobson’s typical fashion. I enjoyed the driving elements of this story and could tell he through his heart into the book’s theme which engaged me deeply. Benjamin Fife’s talented was suited to this book and I can only sing the praises of book and narrator.
My Ratings
Story: A-
Narration: A
Sophia Rose
About the Book:
Fighting for Freedom, Finding Love In 1807, a dark stain marred British society. It wasn’t Napoleon or the War. The slave trade divided Britons along economic and moral lines. In Westminster’s Halls is a tale that unites Longbourn, Pemberley, and Matlock in a mission to end the trafficking of human souls.
Powerful forces are determined to silence Bennet, while Wickham is sent to manipulate Darcy. Amidst mystery, danger, and politics, Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy navigate mutual prejudice and willful pride, striving for a future in a world where all are free. Their journey is a testament to love’s power.
In Westminster’s Halls seeks to fill Austen’s great silence on slavery. The book speculates, with a touch of audacity, how Austen’s beloved characters would have behaved if true-life events were part of Pride and Prejudice.
Author: Don Jacobson
Narrator: Benjamin Fife
Series: Standalone
Genre: Historical Romance
Audiobook Release Date: August 21, 2024
Publisher: Don Jacobson
Length: 14 hours and 44 minutes
Source: Author
Audio Speed: 1.2x
Purchase info:
Audible/Amazon (affilate link)
