Katherine Rawson

Death Takes a Holiday at Pemberley by Kelly Miller

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Set against the familiar backdrop of Pemberley, “Death Takes a Holiday at Pemberley” unfolds several years after the events of “Pride and Prejudice.” The Darcys are living in marital bliss, raising their son and enjoying the idyllic countryside. However, their tranquil life suddenly takes a dramatic turn. The introduction of Graham, the Angel of Death, adds an intriguing supernatural element to the story, and the suspense regarding Darcy’s fate is an enticing plot point. Over the course of seven days, the reader is left in suspense whether Darcy will die or not while the author takes on a ride with the Darcys and their guests.
The pacing starts out a little slow but gains momentum with the arrival of Lady Catherine, keeping readers engrossed in the unfolding drama. Graham’s presence exerts a mysterious influence over the guests of Pemberley, rectifying past wrongs, dispelling misunderstandings, and thwarting Lady Catherine’s cruel intentions.
What sets this novel apart from traditional works of romance is Miller’s talent for mimicking Austen’s writing style and staying true to the characters’ personalities. The novel seamlessly integrates the tone, language, and etiquette of the era, evoking an authentic Austen-esque atmosphere. Notably, Darcy and Elizabeth, while staying true to their original essence, demonstrate character growth—Darcy, in particular, experiences a noticeable transformation, shedding some of his characteristic pride and obstinacy under Elizabeth’s influence.
In conclusion, “Death Takes a Holiday at Pemberley” is a well-written homage to Jane Austen’s world. Kelly Miller successfully captures the spirit of Austen’s characters and the era while introducing, making this novel to be a delightful read.



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