Mr. Collins' Will

A Pride and Prejudice Variation

By: Renata McMann, Summer Hanford

Narrated by: Benjamin Fife

Mr. Collins was a fool, yes, but not a fool who deserved to die.

Torn between anger with her cousin and remorse on his behalf, Miss Elizabeth Bennet must navigate the changes Mr. Collins' demise brings to her family and sort out her feelings for both the charming Mr. Wickham and not-so-charming Mr. Darcy. In addition, she must discover the reasons behind a rash of anger directed her way. But most of all, she needs to learn what, if any, impact will befall her because of Mr. Collins' Will.

Fitzwilliam Darcy knows he, his family, and his friends are all too good for the likes of the Bennets. Or are they? Decades old secrets and impulsive, and not so impulsive, proposals start reordering Darcy's view of the world. Will he come to terms with what truly defines a person's worth in time to claim the woman he loves, or lose her to a charming man seeking a fortune?

©2021 Renata McMann & Summer Hanford (P)2025 Tantor Media

Really Enjoyed This P&P Variation

If you’re looking for a different take on our favorite P&P storyline and characters, this variation is an enjoyable one to try.

The personalities and *most couples are true to canon, with the changes welcomed and fitting.

You won’t find a lot of “copy and paste” in this story, and that’s a good thing. The characters are well developed and the plot and story arcs are believable, except for Caroline’s actions. But we all love to hate Caroline, so seeing her get her just desserts is a good thing.

There are lot of happily ever afters to cheer for. The narration is excellent.

All in all, this variation is worth a credit or a purchase.

In the wake of Mr Collins’ will.

I read this book back in 2021, and was happy to see the audiobook become available too. The idea of Mr Collins’s death setting off a new chain of events that will forever change the lives of the Bennets felt fresh, and I liked how the story gave Elizabeth different challenges to face as the beneficiary of Collins’ will. Darcy’s more liberal portrayal towards those not from his sphere was welcome too. The plot takes multiple turns though, adding the romances of other family members and friends. Colonel Fitzwilliam’s background is definitely a new twist. It’s all nicely done.

Benjamin Fife’s narration was very good as always; his voices suit the characters beautifully and he kept the story engaging throughout.

A favourite moment comes when the just desserts are handed out near the end—one of the cleverest I’ve come across. A thoughtful, well-written variation that balances heart and intrigue very well.