Praise for Being Mary Bennet: “Full of voice and charm, Being Mary Bennet is an exceptional debut that tackles coming of age with humor, care, and emotional depth. Peterson creates a cast of complex characters and relationships you’ll instantly adore and root for while also embracing their flaws and shortcomings. A delightful, memorable story.” — Kelsey Rodkey, author of Last Chance Books
An engaging read for anyone who’s used to being underestimated—by others as well as themselves. — Kirkus Reviews
[A] witty Pride and Prejudice–inspired jaunt. — Publishers Weekly
"A witty, creative retelling packed with charming characters and hilarious antics. Being Mary Bennet filled my Austen-loving heart with so much joy!" — Rachel Lynn Solomon, author of Today, Tonight, Tomorrow
"Hilarious and heartfelt, this debut proves that everyone deserves to be the main character in their own story. Jane Austen fans, prepare to fall in love!" — Kristy Boyce, author of Hot British Boyfriend
"Hilarious and smart, Being Mary Bennet is a soulful, swoonworthy coming of age story that reminds us that everyone deserves to be the main character in their own life. I’m sure Jane Austen would agree!" — Monica Gomez-Hira, author of Once Upon a Quinceañera
“The perfect novel for any reader who wishes they were a heroine but secretly identifies more with background characters… An utterly authentic, captivating story.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“Literary references, friendship, family drama, adorable dogs—this book has it all! Fans of Jane Austen will eat up this playful contemporary homage to Pride and Prejudice.” — School Library Journal
“While [Marnie’s] self-deprecating humor is part of the story’s appeal, there’s also something endearing about watching this earnest character do what has to be done, even if she risks making a fool of herself in the process. A promising first novel.” — Booklist
2022-12-14
A modern-day Lydia Bennet learns to love the outdoors and her own company.
Lola Barnes comes alive when she’s the center of attention, even though the attention isn’t entirely positive. Which is how she ends up accidentally setting off a flare gun on a boat at a party where her former best friends have snubbed her. The boat, which belongs to her sister and brother-in-law, is seriously damaged, and Lola is presented with a choice: participate in Hike Like a Girl, the summer wilderness program her brother-in-law sits on the board of, or face criminal charges. Meanwhile, Kat, Lola’s twin sister, is distant, and Ezra Reuben, Lola’s old lab partner, seems to pull back every time Lola tries to get close. Over the course of the summer, Lola must deal with blisters, a poop shovel, and her own culpability in her damaged relationships, but she also finds new friends, new love, spectacular vistas, and the peace that comes with being comfortable in her own skin. Austen fans will appreciate the parallels with Pride and Prejudice, but familiarity with the novel is not required to enjoy this tale of a selfish party girl growing into someone who is still exuberant but more generous and responsible. Central characters are White.
An engaging read for anyone who’s used to being underestimated—by others as well as themselves. (Fiction. 12-18)
