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Estella
'A haunting and darkly beautiful retelling of Dickens's Great Expectations.' Karen Brooks, author. The icily enigmatic anti-hero of Charles Dickens's Great Expectations tells her own story ... and changes the ending in this beguiling feminist take on a classic for readers of Pip Williams and Karen Brooks.
At just three years of age, Estella is taken from her mother, adopted by the wealthy but eccentric Miss Havisham and taught how to break men's hearts. Satis House is dark and oppressive and life with the vengeful Miss Havisham a confusion of contradictory lessons, but the kindness of the household cook and Estella's love of the nearby marshes bring her some joy. Forced to play with Pip, a local boy from a lowly background, Estella captivates his soul and breaks his heart, exactly as Miss Havisham has planned.
Years later, Estella returns from school in France as a young woman and is thrust into London society. There she meets Pip again, who has acquired an unknown benefactor and come into money. Miss Havisham recruits Pip to help find Estella a husband, much to her distress. She seems forever fated to be the plaything of others, locked into the destructive cycles her adoptive mother set in motion.
Estella is beautiful, headstrong, enigmatic - but who is she, really? Will she ever be able to break free from the constraints of society's expectations and her own childhood? Will Estella finally find a way to tell her own story?
This evocative and mesmerising retelling of Great Expectations sheds light on a little understood character in one of Dickens's most beloved novels.
At just three years of age, Estella is taken from her mother, adopted by the wealthy but eccentric Miss Havisham and taught how to break men's hearts. Satis House is dark and oppressive and life with the vengeful Miss Havisham a confusion of contradictory lessons, but the kindness of the household cook and Estella's love of the nearby marshes bring her some joy. Forced to play with Pip, a local boy from a lowly background, Estella captivates his soul and breaks his heart, exactly as Miss Havisham has planned.
Years later, Estella returns from school in France as a young woman and is thrust into London society. There she meets Pip again, who has acquired an unknown benefactor and come into money. Miss Havisham recruits Pip to help find Estella a husband, much to her distress. She seems forever fated to be the plaything of others, locked into the destructive cycles her adoptive mother set in motion.
Estella is beautiful, headstrong, enigmatic - but who is she, really? Will she ever be able to break free from the constraints of society's expectations and her own childhood? Will Estella finally find a way to tell her own story?
This evocative and mesmerising retelling of Great Expectations sheds light on a little understood character in one of Dickens's most beloved novels.
- GenresFiction
400 pages, Paperback
Published May 3, 2023
About the author
Kathy George
9 books38 followersKathy George's latest novel, "Estella" (Harlequin 2023), is a riveting feminist retelling of Charles Dickens's classic novel "Great Expectations" from the point-of-view of Estella, whilst her first novel, "Sargasso" (Harlequin 2021), is set at an isolated beach house on the coast of Australia and explores the relationship between a woman and her childhood friend.
Kathy has a masters degree in Australian Gothic literature and has published short fiction and non-fiction in numerous literary journals, including Meanjin and the Big Issue Fiction Edition. Kathy has been writing since she was sixteen, and lives with her family in Brisbane, Australia.
Kathy has a masters degree in Australian Gothic literature and has published short fiction and non-fiction in numerous literary journals, including Meanjin and the Big Issue Fiction Edition. Kathy has been writing since she was sixteen, and lives with her family in Brisbane, Australia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
April 2, 2023
This is the story of Estella from Great Expectations and is told entirely from her point of view. It keeps to the novel(mostly) but fills in all the details about Estella that Dickens doesn’t include, so making her a more rounded and more human character.
I love Great Expectations, it’s one of my favourite Dickens novels, and I just loved reading Estella. It has great atmosphere and detail, the characters from the original novel do not do anything out of character and it was great to revisit them from a different angle. And then the ending…I didn’t realise how into this book I was until the ending! It’s wonderful! Just a perfect read for me.
I love Great Expectations, it’s one of my favourite Dickens novels, and I just loved reading Estella. It has great atmosphere and detail, the characters from the original novel do not do anything out of character and it was great to revisit them from a different angle. And then the ending…I didn’t realise how into this book I was until the ending! It’s wonderful! Just a perfect read for me.
May 9, 2023
Firstly let me say that I have never read Great Expectations, I do have a little knowledge of Miss Havisham but not much and I was really looking forward to this one and was not disappointed it is really well written and had me thinking all the way through.
Estella is three years old when she is adopted by the very eccentric Miss Havisham who was jilted at the alter and has never gotten over it, Miss Havisham plans to bring Estella up to break men’s hearts as her heart was broken. They live in Satis House a run down and neglected home and Estella’s lessons start early. Estella does learn about love through the housekeeper and then she meets a young boy Pip and they spend many hours together and Pip is very fond of Estella, but years go on and Estella is sent to France to school and it is five years before she returns to Satis House, she is now a young woman ready to break hearts in London.
Staying with friends in Richmond she meets up with Pip again who is helping Estella find her way around town as she looks for a husband, Estella is very picky and is not always nice to some people, but eventually she chooses a husband is he the right one?
I did enjoy this book although I am not sure that I liked Estella all the time there were times when I was cheering her on and other times not so, but being taken from her mother and bought up my Miss Havisham was always going to play a big part in how Estella is in her later years and I did love Pip such a lovely character and will he ever find the happiness he deserves.
This is one that I do recommend even to those who have not read Great Expectations, Kathy George is a wonderful storyteller.
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
Estella is three years old when she is adopted by the very eccentric Miss Havisham who was jilted at the alter and has never gotten over it, Miss Havisham plans to bring Estella up to break men’s hearts as her heart was broken. They live in Satis House a run down and neglected home and Estella’s lessons start early. Estella does learn about love through the housekeeper and then she meets a young boy Pip and they spend many hours together and Pip is very fond of Estella, but years go on and Estella is sent to France to school and it is five years before she returns to Satis House, she is now a young woman ready to break hearts in London.
Staying with friends in Richmond she meets up with Pip again who is helping Estella find her way around town as she looks for a husband, Estella is very picky and is not always nice to some people, but eventually she chooses a husband is he the right one?
I did enjoy this book although I am not sure that I liked Estella all the time there were times when I was cheering her on and other times not so, but being taken from her mother and bought up my Miss Havisham was always going to play a big part in how Estella is in her later years and I did love Pip such a lovely character and will he ever find the happiness he deserves.
This is one that I do recommend even to those who have not read Great Expectations, Kathy George is a wonderful storyteller.
My thanks to Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
April 2, 2023
Kathy George, Estella, Harlequin Australia, HQ (Fiction), 2023.
Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin Fiction, for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.
Estella is yet another novel in which an author takes a secondary, or even the main character, from a classic and weaves a new story. As is so often the case, the female character has previously been posed against a male character who takes centre stage. In Estella, the female character takes that place, and we see her relationships with her adopted mother, a lawyer, the various men who attract her attention, and whose attention she attracts, from her perspective. In addition, Estella has some interests that are hers alone rather than associated with a love interest. At the same time, Estella is a romantic novel, both in its attention to Estella’s romantic interests, its resolution and its depiction of the landscape in which Estella grows to maturity.
Estella is adopted at three years old by Miss Haversham, the well-known character from Dickens’ Great Expectations. Estella’s story explains her cruelty and unreal expectations from life, as well as moving beyond her depiction in Dickens’ novel. Her loves of the marshes becomes entwined with a romantic figure; her pleasure in deploying her sense of humour and determination to be independent also elicits a friendship with a local boy who is well below the station to which Miss Havisham has elevated her; and her long lived friendship with Pip, also familiar from Great Expectations, is a continuing theme. Estella at first adopts Miss Haversham’s training to treat men badly, and later through her own experiences begins to acknowledge that her own feelings should be reflected in her behaviour towards others.
I have some reservations about the novel as, although it is well written, I did not find it exceptionally engaging. However, there are some lovely descriptions of the marshes and the gas light that engage Estella’s attention: one as an image of freedom, the other as a recall of her past. The desire for freedom from society’s expectations and Estella’s strength, physically and of character, are well drawn in her riding, her medical reading and experiences as a midwife. Through these images Kathy George develops a character who moves well beyond Dickens’ interpretation of the young woman who broke Pip’s heart. This new Estella is a young woman who grows throughout the novel through knowledge of herself and understanding of her past.
Kathy George has written a novel that provides a well-rounded picture of Estella, a young woman who deserved this new treatment by a writer who has brought new life to her. The novel also gives the reader some effective glimpses into Dickens’ other characters and the environment in which he wrote.
Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin Fiction, for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.
Estella is yet another novel in which an author takes a secondary, or even the main character, from a classic and weaves a new story. As is so often the case, the female character has previously been posed against a male character who takes centre stage. In Estella, the female character takes that place, and we see her relationships with her adopted mother, a lawyer, the various men who attract her attention, and whose attention she attracts, from her perspective. In addition, Estella has some interests that are hers alone rather than associated with a love interest. At the same time, Estella is a romantic novel, both in its attention to Estella’s romantic interests, its resolution and its depiction of the landscape in which Estella grows to maturity.
Estella is adopted at three years old by Miss Haversham, the well-known character from Dickens’ Great Expectations. Estella’s story explains her cruelty and unreal expectations from life, as well as moving beyond her depiction in Dickens’ novel. Her loves of the marshes becomes entwined with a romantic figure; her pleasure in deploying her sense of humour and determination to be independent also elicits a friendship with a local boy who is well below the station to which Miss Havisham has elevated her; and her long lived friendship with Pip, also familiar from Great Expectations, is a continuing theme. Estella at first adopts Miss Haversham’s training to treat men badly, and later through her own experiences begins to acknowledge that her own feelings should be reflected in her behaviour towards others.
I have some reservations about the novel as, although it is well written, I did not find it exceptionally engaging. However, there are some lovely descriptions of the marshes and the gas light that engage Estella’s attention: one as an image of freedom, the other as a recall of her past. The desire for freedom from society’s expectations and Estella’s strength, physically and of character, are well drawn in her riding, her medical reading and experiences as a midwife. Through these images Kathy George develops a character who moves well beyond Dickens’ interpretation of the young woman who broke Pip’s heart. This new Estella is a young woman who grows throughout the novel through knowledge of herself and understanding of her past.
Kathy George has written a novel that provides a well-rounded picture of Estella, a young woman who deserved this new treatment by a writer who has brought new life to her. The novel also gives the reader some effective glimpses into Dickens’ other characters and the environment in which he wrote.
April 22, 2023
I found it hard to decide how I felt about Estella when I turned the final page. On the plus side it offered a well-rounded view of a female character only seen through the male gaze in the original novel. The book was generally well written, save for a few historical inaccuracies, some of which the author commented on in the end matter; meanwhile, the prose was atmospheric and set the scene beautifully. However, I never fully engaged with the story or came to care deeply for Estella as I read. I always felt somewhat detached, my mind working to compare everything against the original novel every time such scenes presented. In some ways, I wonder if this book will better suit readers who aren't as familiar with the source material and therefore have no preconceptions about the characters and their actions. I will personally give this book three stars. It was by no means a bad read; it just lacked that extra spark I was looking for.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 5, 2023
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Many thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for this opportunity.
This is a beautiful new version from the classical read from Great Expectations where the main character now, is Estella. Most of the story is true to the original but the reader is able to assess it from a feminist's view, one of social constraint, lack of opportunity and in Estella's case when she makes the poor judgment of marrying Bentley Drummle who considers her less than one of his horses and only one of financial opportunity. This is a terrible marriage, Estella realises that in choosing Drummle simply because she is bored with the continual parading of herself at the many balls she simply took the easiest way out. It takes her awhile to decide to leave this cruel man. Miss Havisham dies from injuries due to the fire in the house. As is in the original, Miss Havisham resides with her moulding clothes, surrounds and memories of her rejection.
Estella, was adopted by Miss Havisham, taken from her mother at a young age and has grown to be a beautiful woman who has been purposely raised and groomed to be a heartbreaker by her Miss Havisham who was left at the alter so to speak and as a consequence has conspired to train Estella for her own revenge on the male population.
Pip, an orphan, lives with his sister and husband, a blacksmith and is introduced to Miss Havisham and Estella who treats him badly but in time he falls in love with her. Estella on the other hand thinks of him only as a good friend and due to his poor circumstances not interested in anything beyond friendship. However, he makes good from a rich benefactor and becomes a gentleman. He is devastated by Estella's choice of husband and finally travels abroad. Estella, after leaving Drummle finds a vocation for herself, one that enlightens her at what could have been her life and she realises all the errors she has made but how to change the course of her life and makes amends particularly with Pip.
This is a beautiful new version from the classical read from Great Expectations where the main character now, is Estella. Most of the story is true to the original but the reader is able to assess it from a feminist's view, one of social constraint, lack of opportunity and in Estella's case when she makes the poor judgment of marrying Bentley Drummle who considers her less than one of his horses and only one of financial opportunity. This is a terrible marriage, Estella realises that in choosing Drummle simply because she is bored with the continual parading of herself at the many balls she simply took the easiest way out. It takes her awhile to decide to leave this cruel man. Miss Havisham dies from injuries due to the fire in the house. As is in the original, Miss Havisham resides with her moulding clothes, surrounds and memories of her rejection.
Estella, was adopted by Miss Havisham, taken from her mother at a young age and has grown to be a beautiful woman who has been purposely raised and groomed to be a heartbreaker by her Miss Havisham who was left at the alter so to speak and as a consequence has conspired to train Estella for her own revenge on the male population.
Pip, an orphan, lives with his sister and husband, a blacksmith and is introduced to Miss Havisham and Estella who treats him badly but in time he falls in love with her. Estella on the other hand thinks of him only as a good friend and due to his poor circumstances not interested in anything beyond friendship. However, he makes good from a rich benefactor and becomes a gentleman. He is devastated by Estella's choice of husband and finally travels abroad. Estella, after leaving Drummle finds a vocation for herself, one that enlightens her at what could have been her life and she realises all the errors she has made but how to change the course of her life and makes amends particularly with Pip.
April 8, 2023
Loved this haunting and atmospheric modern retelling of Great Expectations. Estella is strong, intelligent and endearing and oh, what a romance, what a story. Highly recommend
May 7, 2023
“The icily enigmatic anti-hero of Charles Dickens's Great Expectations tells her own story... and changes the ending…”
Estella by Kathy George is a delightful, breezy read. It reads like a modern classic true to its progenitor but also pleasantly liberal.
The author successfully and thoroughly immersed me in Charles Dickens’s world of Great Expectations, but with an unexpected Austen-esque style. This made Estella’s plot well paced and engaging like any other great drama.
I loved the feminist take on living in this era, which allowed Estella to shine in a way that Dickens never managed with his characterisation of her. My only disappointment was that Estella wasn’t as cold-hearted as I imagined and believed her to be. But this aside, I was invested in her plight and was glad to discover that she softened but not so much that she couldn’t grab her own happily ever after like a true feminist.
Well done on a fantastic novel! Highly recommend.
Estella by Kathy George is a delightful, breezy read. It reads like a modern classic true to its progenitor but also pleasantly liberal.
The author successfully and thoroughly immersed me in Charles Dickens’s world of Great Expectations, but with an unexpected Austen-esque style. This made Estella’s plot well paced and engaging like any other great drama.
I loved the feminist take on living in this era, which allowed Estella to shine in a way that Dickens never managed with his characterisation of her. My only disappointment was that Estella wasn’t as cold-hearted as I imagined and believed her to be. But this aside, I was invested in her plight and was glad to discover that she softened but not so much that she couldn’t grab her own happily ever after like a true feminist.
Well done on a fantastic novel! Highly recommend.
April 12, 2023
What an imaginative and compelling re-telling of the Victorian classic Great Expectations! Estella gets to tell her side of the story and it is a stunning comprehensive portrayal. For an author to take on such a challenge and deliver it so effectively speaks volumes of Kathy George’s writing ability. Her talent shines here in being able to step inside characters from a highly recognised novel and to shape a story around them into her own creation. Kathy has provided clarity and filled in the missing pieces of Estella’s unusual life. I also truly felt transported into the world of Dickens. The gothic atmosphere, the period language, the Victorian culture and the haunting settings embraced me in such a profound way. It all seemed very authentic. Ms George’s command of language captured my imagination so persuasively I could not put the book down once I entered its pages. The descriptions are exceptional. All my senses were engaged. I could even picture the costumes for it was as if I was watching a period drama, true to form and style in every way.
I also loved the fact that the author mentions some of Dickens’ work in the text: appropriately placed so that it becomes a ‘sort of’ cameo appearance. Of course, she provides a full Dickens cast besides Estella and Pip. And the misty marsh setting is quite important--even taking on a character's role. Estella’s love of it haunts her—a shroud of rustic beauty. And for Pip, it is his childhood home--a place of danger and uncertainty and where many events happened.
Estella (like Pip) is an orphan. She is the prime focus of this novel. Taken from her mother at three years of age, she is adopted by the wealthy and strange Miss Havisham who lives in Satis House, a dark and oppressive dwelling. This eccentric woman surrounds herself with subtle reminders of disappointment. She was jilted on her wedding day and spends her life seeking revenge through the innocent, beautiful Estella by shaping her into a person who must become a heartbreaker of men. She is taught the cruel tactics of leading them on and then breaking their hearts. It is a sad passage to satisfaction for Miss Havisham and the control is deeply wounding to a young impressionable Estella. Miss Havisham’s peculiar training takes its toll on the girl’s relationships, even on her dear childhood friend Pip, who has been faithful and devoted to Estella from the start. For she is expected to break his heart, too. Despite these terrible learned actions, Kathy George shows us that Estella is capable of being more than just a cold and uncaring heartbreaker. It is true that Estella has experienced little joy in her life as a result of her tragic upbringing, where she was given adult responsibilities at a young age, but she has found some comfort and kindness in the housekeeper who has been one shining light in her life. So, in that respect, she has had another woman figure to offset the cruelty and lead her (eventually) to what she seeks.
In this novel we get to see a fairly well rounded picture of Estella: who she is and wants to be but also the tragedy that made her into a pawn. Once she grows up and returns home from France with an education, she bumps into Pip again. He is a person of wealth now. Will his improved station draw Estella closer to him? But Miss Havisham is not done with her yet and begins seeking a husband for her (which Estella does not really want). And worse still is the fact that she sends Pip on a mission to try and find a husband for Estella—which is a cruel task in itself knowing Pip still loves her. Sadly, Estella falls once again to Miss Havisham’s control and marries a dreadful man— putting her in an even more isolating circumstance. Will Estella ever break free from all the chains of control that bind her? Will she realise what she has in Pip?
I absolutely adored the ending of Estella which is different from the one of Dickens. As we all know from reading Great Expectations, Estella is indeed a changed woman from the trials she has endured but there is a piece missing in her redemption that Kathy George delivers in her version. Those of us who are Romantics will appreciate this new satisfying ending. Choosing a more fulfilling outcome for two characters who have gone through such horrific agony and change, made my heart cheer! I totally recommend the wonderful Estella to all Classic literature lovers. It swept me away to the much loved Dickens world and it will do the same for all who enter its haunting domain. A well-deserved 5 Stars
Many thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for my review copy.
I also loved the fact that the author mentions some of Dickens’ work in the text: appropriately placed so that it becomes a ‘sort of’ cameo appearance. Of course, she provides a full Dickens cast besides Estella and Pip. And the misty marsh setting is quite important--even taking on a character's role. Estella’s love of it haunts her—a shroud of rustic beauty. And for Pip, it is his childhood home--a place of danger and uncertainty and where many events happened.
Estella (like Pip) is an orphan. She is the prime focus of this novel. Taken from her mother at three years of age, she is adopted by the wealthy and strange Miss Havisham who lives in Satis House, a dark and oppressive dwelling. This eccentric woman surrounds herself with subtle reminders of disappointment. She was jilted on her wedding day and spends her life seeking revenge through the innocent, beautiful Estella by shaping her into a person who must become a heartbreaker of men. She is taught the cruel tactics of leading them on and then breaking their hearts. It is a sad passage to satisfaction for Miss Havisham and the control is deeply wounding to a young impressionable Estella. Miss Havisham’s peculiar training takes its toll on the girl’s relationships, even on her dear childhood friend Pip, who has been faithful and devoted to Estella from the start. For she is expected to break his heart, too. Despite these terrible learned actions, Kathy George shows us that Estella is capable of being more than just a cold and uncaring heartbreaker. It is true that Estella has experienced little joy in her life as a result of her tragic upbringing, where she was given adult responsibilities at a young age, but she has found some comfort and kindness in the housekeeper who has been one shining light in her life. So, in that respect, she has had another woman figure to offset the cruelty and lead her (eventually) to what she seeks.
In this novel we get to see a fairly well rounded picture of Estella: who she is and wants to be but also the tragedy that made her into a pawn. Once she grows up and returns home from France with an education, she bumps into Pip again. He is a person of wealth now. Will his improved station draw Estella closer to him? But Miss Havisham is not done with her yet and begins seeking a husband for her (which Estella does not really want). And worse still is the fact that she sends Pip on a mission to try and find a husband for Estella—which is a cruel task in itself knowing Pip still loves her. Sadly, Estella falls once again to Miss Havisham’s control and marries a dreadful man— putting her in an even more isolating circumstance. Will Estella ever break free from all the chains of control that bind her? Will she realise what she has in Pip?
I absolutely adored the ending of Estella which is different from the one of Dickens. As we all know from reading Great Expectations, Estella is indeed a changed woman from the trials she has endured but there is a piece missing in her redemption that Kathy George delivers in her version. Those of us who are Romantics will appreciate this new satisfying ending. Choosing a more fulfilling outcome for two characters who have gone through such horrific agony and change, made my heart cheer! I totally recommend the wonderful Estella to all Classic literature lovers. It swept me away to the much loved Dickens world and it will do the same for all who enter its haunting domain. A well-deserved 5 Stars
Many thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for my review copy.
April 9, 2023
Although it is many years since I read Great Expectations,, Estella and. It’s Haversham are characters that stay with you. It would be tricky to write about someone else's character and keep to the essence of the original author. In this book, Kathy George has kept true to the time. From Estella's unusual upbringing to her finding her place in the world, we treated to a marvellous journey in history. I did like that despite some Estella's harshness, especially towards Pip, she was kind most of the time. Her treatment of Matilda and Daisy showed a kind attitude, even if she was incapable of making good decisions about her own life. The medical slant and her independence in learning her new role was interesting to read, as was the portrayal of gender issues of the time. Thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy to review and enjoy.
April 10, 2023
“Great Expectations” is one of the great works of English Literature. But like so many “great works” it was written by a man and only tells the story from the man’s point of view. Pip loves “Estella”, but she is portrayed as remote and 2-dimensional. “Estella” tells her side of the story and explains how she became the woman she is and what she was doing when Pip wasn’t around.
Written in a fresh and modern style while still retaining the mood and feel of the time, “Estella” gives an insight into one of the best known, but least understood characters of classic literature. Very enjoyable and satisfying.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia and Better Reading for a preview copy of this novel
Written in a fresh and modern style while still retaining the mood and feel of the time, “Estella” gives an insight into one of the best known, but least understood characters of classic literature. Very enjoyable and satisfying.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia and Better Reading for a preview copy of this novel
May 3, 2023
I loved this story and these characters. It has left me wanting to go back for a Great Expectations re-read to brush up on the original perspective
August 9, 2023
Estella
Kathy George
5 stars
Thank you NetGalley for my copy of Estella by Kathy George. I have not received any compensation for this review. All thoughts and opinions contained in this review are my own and mine alone.
In summary: Impressive read. Engrossing unable to put the book down, well rounded characters and a satisfying ending. If you like Anne of Green Gables, you will most likely enjoy this story as it has the Anne of Green Gables vibe.
Based on characters from Great Expectations by Charles Dickens, the author has taken it upon herself to explore the characters Estella and Pip from Dicken’s work.
I have not read Great Expectations, however I expect to read the story to fill in the rest of the story, not that it is needed! Estella stands alone quite well on its own.
Estella as a character was well thought out. I loved her strength and her struggle as an adopted child by the eccentric Miss Havershim. I could visualise Estella’s conflicts as she grows up wanting love and affection from her adoptive mother, only to be turned away finding solace in Mrs Butters the maid and Pip.
As Estella is hell bent on denying her feelings towards Pip she hastily marries Bentley. I actually thought she could quite possibly murder him although she manages to become strong able to leave the brute. I cheered for her when she gathered her equilibrium and stood her ground. I may or may not have cheered at the untimely death of her husband through his own doing.
Kathy George certainly took the reader on a great adventure with Estella. The writing was excellent, character development was superb. I did not feel there was anything lacking, covering all of the bases. The characters were believable in their slice of the moment the reader is given. The plot was well thought out, although I did hope that in the end Estella and Pip took over her childhood home giving it a happy ending of sorts. Bringing warmth and peace to it rather than being destroyed.
I highly recommend Estella by Kathy George. As someone such as myself not really into historicals, let alone a rehash of a classic. It really does stand strongly on its own. Again, giving off an Anne of Green Gables vibe.
Kathy George
5 stars
Thank you NetGalley for my copy of Estella by Kathy George. I have not received any compensation for this review. All thoughts and opinions contained in this review are my own and mine alone.
In summary: Impressive read. Engrossing unable to put the book down, well rounded characters and a satisfying ending. If you like Anne of Green Gables, you will most likely enjoy this story as it has the Anne of Green Gables vibe.
Based on characters from Great Expectations by Charles Dickens, the author has taken it upon herself to explore the characters Estella and Pip from Dicken’s work.
I have not read Great Expectations, however I expect to read the story to fill in the rest of the story, not that it is needed! Estella stands alone quite well on its own.
Estella as a character was well thought out. I loved her strength and her struggle as an adopted child by the eccentric Miss Havershim. I could visualise Estella’s conflicts as she grows up wanting love and affection from her adoptive mother, only to be turned away finding solace in Mrs Butters the maid and Pip.
As Estella is hell bent on denying her feelings towards Pip she hastily marries Bentley. I actually thought she could quite possibly murder him although she manages to become strong able to leave the brute. I cheered for her when she gathered her equilibrium and stood her ground. I may or may not have cheered at the untimely death of her husband through his own doing.
Kathy George certainly took the reader on a great adventure with Estella. The writing was excellent, character development was superb. I did not feel there was anything lacking, covering all of the bases. The characters were believable in their slice of the moment the reader is given. The plot was well thought out, although I did hope that in the end Estella and Pip took over her childhood home giving it a happy ending of sorts. Bringing warmth and peace to it rather than being destroyed.
I highly recommend Estella by Kathy George. As someone such as myself not really into historicals, let alone a rehash of a classic. It really does stand strongly on its own. Again, giving off an Anne of Green Gables vibe.
May 4, 2023
As much as it was written as a reflection on society and the class system in England, "Estella" was a strained gaze upon relationships that grow from coldness, loneliness and alienation. Estella is wrenched from the arms of her mother at the tender age of three, into the cold Satin House of Miss Havisham. It is in Satin House where Estella is rejected, and learns this very quicky from her adopted mother and at the same time groomed to attract the attention of others, especially men without understanding the impact and beauty in forming a loving connection with someone.
Estella is rather pitiful, insensitive and uncaring, equally beguiling as she was obstinate. She wanted love, but never really knew what love was, or what to look for. She treated Pip like an absolute doormat, who lover her unconditionally. I’m still not sure whether this was an effect of Miss Havisham’s role in her upbringing, or whether it was more about the era. Estella pushed forward for independence and to be a different kind of woman, yet she was still bound by the shackles of being someone’s wife. It was not until the later that she became a midwife of sorts and found her feet.
I wished for more history of Miss Havisham intertwined into this book to strengthen this fresh take on the book it was inspired by – Great Expectations. As I pondered over this book, this did unfold: providing a very unreliable and misunderstood woman in Estella, as a reflection of her torment and angst. Finding comfort in others like Mrs Butters, rather than Miss Havisham would confound anyone, and having to connect with a young boy, and be taught to string him along and then break his heart, only to realise when it could be too late was just a heart-wrenching.
Harper Collins Australia - thanks for the gifted copy.
Estella is rather pitiful, insensitive and uncaring, equally beguiling as she was obstinate. She wanted love, but never really knew what love was, or what to look for. She treated Pip like an absolute doormat, who lover her unconditionally. I’m still not sure whether this was an effect of Miss Havisham’s role in her upbringing, or whether it was more about the era. Estella pushed forward for independence and to be a different kind of woman, yet she was still bound by the shackles of being someone’s wife. It was not until the later that she became a midwife of sorts and found her feet.
I wished for more history of Miss Havisham intertwined into this book to strengthen this fresh take on the book it was inspired by – Great Expectations. As I pondered over this book, this did unfold: providing a very unreliable and misunderstood woman in Estella, as a reflection of her torment and angst. Finding comfort in others like Mrs Butters, rather than Miss Havisham would confound anyone, and having to connect with a young boy, and be taught to string him along and then break his heart, only to realise when it could be too late was just a heart-wrenching.
Harper Collins Australia - thanks for the gifted copy.
May 28, 2023
I always love a good classic and anything that comes alive from those classics always takes my interest. This is the story of Estella from Great Expectations and this is a story through her eyes. This story really brings Estella to life and I enjoyed reading the story through her eyes.
I found that in this book Estella really did come to life and became a person I liked eventually and this made the story more real to me. I found it to be a bit of a slow burner, slow to start but eventually grabbed my interest more and more as I read further into the book.
I think I will now go back and read Great Expectations and see where it all started. For lovers of classics and lovers of learning more, this is a book for you.
Estella
Kathy George
Harlequin Australia
I found that in this book Estella really did come to life and became a person I liked eventually and this made the story more real to me. I found it to be a bit of a slow burner, slow to start but eventually grabbed my interest more and more as I read further into the book.
I think I will now go back and read Great Expectations and see where it all started. For lovers of classics and lovers of learning more, this is a book for you.
Estella
Kathy George
Harlequin Australia
December 4, 2023
It is over 50 years since I read ‘Great Expectations’ and perhaps 20 since I saw a film version. But who coud ever forget Miss Havisham, Pip and Estella… This modern take on that classic, writen somewhat in a Dickensian style, was, for me, difficult to engage with. Empathizing with Estella was not easy. I found my mind wandering, put the book aside many times, and I admit struggled to finish it. It was well written but for me a three-star read.
April 12, 2023
3.5⭐️ This was an interesting story of the life of Estelle. Estelle was hard to like at times, she could be cruel to the people that cared about her, but I did find her more endearing as the book went on. Understanding the life and times that she was growing up in. I would have liked more story about her mum and how she came to be adopted. I did enjoy this book. I haven't read Great Expectations but will now add it to my reading list.
Thanks to better reading for the advanced copy.
Thanks to better reading for the advanced copy.
April 2, 2023
Estella is a beautiful and hauntingly compelling read with a headstrong and enigmatic heroine. I was mesmerised by Estella and really came to like her. I loved that it's a modern classic with different twists.
Pip was a favourite character of mine and I felt plenty of love for Estella despite her different upbringing. I was so mesmerised by the story of Estella that I read it in one day.
Pip was a favourite character of mine and I felt plenty of love for Estella despite her different upbringing. I was so mesmerised by the story of Estella that I read it in one day.
May 26, 2023
“Estella” is the story of “Great Expectations”, told from the perspective of Miss Havisham’s adopted daughter. It’s an interesting historical fiction with a unique perspective. I found it both entertaining and thoughtful.
At just three years old, Estella is taken from her mother and thrust into the strange world Miss Havisham fosters at Satis House. Bereft, she has created an isolated and eccentric world, and she herself is erratic and emotionally demanding. Estella is repeatedly told that she’s being raised to break as many men’s hearts as possible.
Estella is a strange child – no wonder, given her upbringing – but she isn’t at all certain that she wants to fulfil this purpose in life. However, as a young woman of very modest means, it’s clear that marriage is her only effective route to financial and social security. Estella ignores this for as long as possible.
Throughout her childhood, she’s forced to play with Pip, a local boy who has also caught Miss Havisham’s attention. Unintentionally, she captures Pip’s heart. But the decisions she makes as a young woman are very intentional.
It has been years since I’ve read “Great Expectations”, and to be very honest, my memories of the details of the story are quite vague. However, Miss Havisham is an unforgettable character, and I enjoyed seeing her more fully developed. In a sense, being a bit vague about the details may have helped me enjoy this a little more: I wasn’t constantly comparing it with the original.
Estella is, of course, the centre of this novel. She’s a vivid and believable character. To a large extent she takes for granted the restricted life open to women of her class during the period. However, within that she tries to make very strategic decisions – not always successfully, as she has little guidance and she’s both young and stubborn. Still, most readers will find her both empathetic and understandable, even if they wince at her decisions.
Other characters are seen only through her eyes, and readers will find themselves remarkably sympathetic towards some characters for whom Estella herself has very little sympathy. Pip remains surprisingly shadowy, given his importance in Estella’s life, but other characters are drawn lightly but vividly.
This is not an action packed novel; much of what happens is intellectual and emotional. It’s a very internal novel. Still, I found it absorbing and well paced. It never dragged.
As a historical novel, it’s excellent. The sense of time and place is strong and allows you to immerse yourself quickly.
I enjoyed reading this novel. The angle of highlighting a relatively minor character from a classic novel works well, resulting in a novel that stands independently as a great reading experience.
You may also be interested in my review of “Sargasso” by Kathy George:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
At just three years old, Estella is taken from her mother and thrust into the strange world Miss Havisham fosters at Satis House. Bereft, she has created an isolated and eccentric world, and she herself is erratic and emotionally demanding. Estella is repeatedly told that she’s being raised to break as many men’s hearts as possible.
Estella is a strange child – no wonder, given her upbringing – but she isn’t at all certain that she wants to fulfil this purpose in life. However, as a young woman of very modest means, it’s clear that marriage is her only effective route to financial and social security. Estella ignores this for as long as possible.
Throughout her childhood, she’s forced to play with Pip, a local boy who has also caught Miss Havisham’s attention. Unintentionally, she captures Pip’s heart. But the decisions she makes as a young woman are very intentional.
It has been years since I’ve read “Great Expectations”, and to be very honest, my memories of the details of the story are quite vague. However, Miss Havisham is an unforgettable character, and I enjoyed seeing her more fully developed. In a sense, being a bit vague about the details may have helped me enjoy this a little more: I wasn’t constantly comparing it with the original.
Estella is, of course, the centre of this novel. She’s a vivid and believable character. To a large extent she takes for granted the restricted life open to women of her class during the period. However, within that she tries to make very strategic decisions – not always successfully, as she has little guidance and she’s both young and stubborn. Still, most readers will find her both empathetic and understandable, even if they wince at her decisions.
Other characters are seen only through her eyes, and readers will find themselves remarkably sympathetic towards some characters for whom Estella herself has very little sympathy. Pip remains surprisingly shadowy, given his importance in Estella’s life, but other characters are drawn lightly but vividly.
This is not an action packed novel; much of what happens is intellectual and emotional. It’s a very internal novel. Still, I found it absorbing and well paced. It never dragged.
As a historical novel, it’s excellent. The sense of time and place is strong and allows you to immerse yourself quickly.
I enjoyed reading this novel. The angle of highlighting a relatively minor character from a classic novel works well, resulting in a novel that stands independently as a great reading experience.
You may also be interested in my review of “Sargasso” by Kathy George:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
April 12, 2023
Estella is an entertaining novel that retells Dickens’ Great Expectations. Estella was an engaging character and I felt her inner turmoil with trying to please Miss Havisham by teasing Pip, leading him on before crushing his spirit but also looking for company to ease the loneliness of her situation. She remembered enough of her mother’s love and yearned for the firm kindness of the cook to address Miss Havisham’s desire for her to break Pip’s heart. Such a dilemma!
Despite her flaws, a result of Miss Havisham’s bitterness, I really liked Estella and was confident that once she escaped her grasp, would emerge as a spunky passionate woman. Sadly it took somewhat longer than I anticipated. However, Estella did demonstrate that she would take her life into her own hands and be as true to herself as possible.
Kathy George sensitively worked her way around Victorian morals and etiquette and made her female roles strong in the face of circumstance. They were never pathetic, withering daisies. She allowed their characters to develop with a complexity that made them plausible and either endearing or despicable as their role dictated.
I loved the descriptions of the marshes and the various settings where the plot unfolded. I have a clear picture of Satis House, the shops in the village and the forge in my mind and I hope it does not become a movie to spoil the images I have created.
I read this as a standalone book but was so inspired by it that I have since listened to Great Expectations asan Audiobook. It was pleasing to see how well Kathy George had stayed within the original storyline and wove her story of Estella into that framework. She also picked up on many of the character traits, eg men biting their forefinger when perplexed, some very strange habits. Also of interest was the way in which her descriptions of the settings matched so well with Dickens and at times you would have thought that one author wrote both.
Congratulations Kathy George, I would highly recommend this book to other readers of the genre.
Uncorrected advance reading copy provided by Harlequin Fiction, via Better Reading. Thanks for the opportunity.
Despite her flaws, a result of Miss Havisham’s bitterness, I really liked Estella and was confident that once she escaped her grasp, would emerge as a spunky passionate woman. Sadly it took somewhat longer than I anticipated. However, Estella did demonstrate that she would take her life into her own hands and be as true to herself as possible.
Kathy George sensitively worked her way around Victorian morals and etiquette and made her female roles strong in the face of circumstance. They were never pathetic, withering daisies. She allowed their characters to develop with a complexity that made them plausible and either endearing or despicable as their role dictated.
I loved the descriptions of the marshes and the various settings where the plot unfolded. I have a clear picture of Satis House, the shops in the village and the forge in my mind and I hope it does not become a movie to spoil the images I have created.
I read this as a standalone book but was so inspired by it that I have since listened to Great Expectations asan Audiobook. It was pleasing to see how well Kathy George had stayed within the original storyline and wove her story of Estella into that framework. She also picked up on many of the character traits, eg men biting their forefinger when perplexed, some very strange habits. Also of interest was the way in which her descriptions of the settings matched so well with Dickens and at times you would have thought that one author wrote both.
Congratulations Kathy George, I would highly recommend this book to other readers of the genre.
Uncorrected advance reading copy provided by Harlequin Fiction, via Better Reading. Thanks for the opportunity.
April 11, 2023
Thank you to Better Reading Australia for a preview copy of this novel.
Kathy George takes us back to Dickensian England and the dilapidated Satis House of the eccentric Miss Havisham, the well-known character from the classic novel “Great Expectations”. The novel transforms Estella, Miss Havisham’s adopted daughter, into a fascinating protagonist. With her unconventional upbringing it is little wonder that Estella is driven by conflicting emotions and a warped sense of love. As she matures this deeply flawed character reveals her strengths and weaknesses in a very honest and heart-wrenching manner. Her evolving relationship with Pip will be of great interest to the reader.
Estella is a fascinating and complex character. She is both strong and weak, headstrong but aimless, seeking love but unable to accept it or recognise it. She sabotages some unions and embroils herself in abusive ones, much to the dismay of the reader. The compelling nature of the book comes with the hope that Estella will work through the oppressive influences of her childhood and forge a happy existence.
The novel seems to lose focus at times with some unusual side-plots, but so, too, does our protagonist waver in her convictions and take a meandering path, seeking fulfilment. This is a fascinating study of a largely misunderstood character. This novel has certainly inspired me to revisit “Great Expectations” and will, undoubtedly, add to my reading of this classic.
Kathy George takes us back to Dickensian England and the dilapidated Satis House of the eccentric Miss Havisham, the well-known character from the classic novel “Great Expectations”. The novel transforms Estella, Miss Havisham’s adopted daughter, into a fascinating protagonist. With her unconventional upbringing it is little wonder that Estella is driven by conflicting emotions and a warped sense of love. As she matures this deeply flawed character reveals her strengths and weaknesses in a very honest and heart-wrenching manner. Her evolving relationship with Pip will be of great interest to the reader.
Estella is a fascinating and complex character. She is both strong and weak, headstrong but aimless, seeking love but unable to accept it or recognise it. She sabotages some unions and embroils herself in abusive ones, much to the dismay of the reader. The compelling nature of the book comes with the hope that Estella will work through the oppressive influences of her childhood and forge a happy existence.
The novel seems to lose focus at times with some unusual side-plots, but so, too, does our protagonist waver in her convictions and take a meandering path, seeking fulfilment. This is a fascinating study of a largely misunderstood character. This novel has certainly inspired me to revisit “Great Expectations” and will, undoubtedly, add to my reading of this classic.
March 25, 2023
I received an uncorrected proof of this book - thank you! It was an absolutely8 absorbing, pleasure to read. I believe it would, obviously, appeal mainly to those who loved Great Expectations by Charles Dickens and are interested in furthering their journey in that world. However, Estella was such a good character and George's exploration of her worked so well that I think this could work as a stand-alone story for those wanting to read about a woman's journey in the 19th century - some of her relationships, mistakes and how she learned from them. A good woman's drama with an emphasis on growing up decisions and relationships.
The Estella we meet is seen as cold but we are given the window to her mind and heart and this doesn't mean she doesn't have feelings; that she doesn't grow and love and regret. I felt for her. She was intensely pragmatic and she needed to survive, although her coldness also leads her to make mistakes as well as protects her.
I felt this was an important part of the story and I really enjoyed it. I think there are plenty of people who could relate to Estella and not knowing how much of themselves to put out there. She is a great heroine.
The writing is very accessible and I like that I felt I understood Estella more and more as I went on, and I never felt bored through the book.
The Estella we meet is seen as cold but we are given the window to her mind and heart and this doesn't mean she doesn't have feelings; that she doesn't grow and love and regret. I felt for her. She was intensely pragmatic and she needed to survive, although her coldness also leads her to make mistakes as well as protects her.
I felt this was an important part of the story and I really enjoyed it. I think there are plenty of people who could relate to Estella and not knowing how much of themselves to put out there. She is a great heroine.
The writing is very accessible and I like that I felt I understood Estella more and more as I went on, and I never felt bored through the book.
April 25, 2023
“Think for a moment of the long chain of events that bind you, make you what you are, and think that perhaps none of it would occur but for the formation of the first link on one memorable day.”
I didn’t necessarily have any expectations for what this book would hold, but let’s just say it exceeded them greatly! Unlike most, I haven’t read Great Expectations prior to reading Estella and so all the content in this book was brand new to me. It was such a beautifully written story, and Kathy George set the story perfectly to be told from the perspective of the female lead to the story, Estella. I was actually grateful to have not read the original so as to experience this on its own. You love her almost instantly, you grow with her, you fall in love alongside her and you also cry with her. To say I sobbed would be an understatement. This book has become a new favourite and I’m so thankful to have read it.
"My greatest desire is for your hand to hold mine at night, every night, until we are both asleep. Until we are old. Until the poets have run out of verses. Until I can no longer remember your name, only the touch of your hand."
Thank you to Better Reading, Kathy George and Harlequin Books Australia for the opportunity to read this book prior to release in exchange for this honest review.
I didn’t necessarily have any expectations for what this book would hold, but let’s just say it exceeded them greatly! Unlike most, I haven’t read Great Expectations prior to reading Estella and so all the content in this book was brand new to me. It was such a beautifully written story, and Kathy George set the story perfectly to be told from the perspective of the female lead to the story, Estella. I was actually grateful to have not read the original so as to experience this on its own. You love her almost instantly, you grow with her, you fall in love alongside her and you also cry with her. To say I sobbed would be an understatement. This book has become a new favourite and I’m so thankful to have read it.
"My greatest desire is for your hand to hold mine at night, every night, until we are both asleep. Until we are old. Until the poets have run out of verses. Until I can no longer remember your name, only the touch of your hand."
Thank you to Better Reading, Kathy George and Harlequin Books Australia for the opportunity to read this book prior to release in exchange for this honest review.
April 7, 2023
I'm lways intrigued by the idea of back stories. All those characters, not always front and centre, who may have great or very little impact in the story, how did it look from their viewpoint? Full disclosure, I have never read Great Expectations or seen an adaptation. I know, we are few, but we do walk amongst you. I also have a tendency to confuse Great Expectations with David Copperfield (you guessed it, haven't read that either). So I have only a very basic knowledge of the original story, Miss Havisham in her wedding dress, a boy named Pip and a cruel girl he loves called Estella, that's about it. I would definitely recommend reading the source first, as I feel that would have given me a greater connection to the characters and storyline, as I had a strong sense I was missing context. Kathy George has bravely taken the risk of comparison with Dickens, arguably one of the english speaking world's most popular authors. Estella is beautifully written and very visual, with the trope of a feminist twist to the (now) main character. How much it actually fleshes out Estella and her back story for me, remains to be seen, but I look forward to rereading it once I've gotten my hands on the original. Thanks to Better Reading for this advance readers copy.
April 14, 2023
Many thanks to the Better Reading team for a chance to read an advance copy of this book, and have the opportunity to review it.
Like so many other readers of Dickens’ ‘Great Expectations’, I well remember the cold-hearted character of Estella, and her solitary upbringing as the adopted daughter of the strange and eccentric Miss Havisham. This situation itself was highly unusual in 1860’s England, when adoption by an unmarried woman was almost unheard of and it was hard to break free from a rigid class system. And where an educated woman’s independence might come at great personal cost. Kathy George prompts readers of her novel to ponder if Estella’s unfeeling attitude towards almost everyone was shaped by her lonely upbringing, or if it was a natural attribute and a defence against a male-dominated society where women generally were considered lesser. In her re-imagining of Estella, George explores the rigidity and restrictions of England’s class system, and the determination that was required for an intelligent woman of independent means to successfully break through these conventions.
The book is a highly readable page-turner, even if historical accuracy was occasionally stretched. This did detract from the story’s credibility since ignoring the strict social conventions of Victorian England weakened an otherwise enjoyable read. But the occasional nod to some of Dickens’ other fictional characters was a nice touch!
Like so many other readers of Dickens’ ‘Great Expectations’, I well remember the cold-hearted character of Estella, and her solitary upbringing as the adopted daughter of the strange and eccentric Miss Havisham. This situation itself was highly unusual in 1860’s England, when adoption by an unmarried woman was almost unheard of and it was hard to break free from a rigid class system. And where an educated woman’s independence might come at great personal cost. Kathy George prompts readers of her novel to ponder if Estella’s unfeeling attitude towards almost everyone was shaped by her lonely upbringing, or if it was a natural attribute and a defence against a male-dominated society where women generally were considered lesser. In her re-imagining of Estella, George explores the rigidity and restrictions of England’s class system, and the determination that was required for an intelligent woman of independent means to successfully break through these conventions.
The book is a highly readable page-turner, even if historical accuracy was occasionally stretched. This did detract from the story’s credibility since ignoring the strict social conventions of Victorian England weakened an otherwise enjoyable read. But the occasional nod to some of Dickens’ other fictional characters was a nice touch!
May 6, 2023
Estella is a retelling of Charles Dickens' Great Expectations with Estella placed as the central protagonist. As someone who has read very little Dickens and never Great Expectations I still thoroughly enjoyed meeting Estella.
I wanted to read Great Expectations first but it was sold out in every bookshop I could get to and I wouldn't have read it in time but I will definitely be adding it to my must read pile now.
Although a seemingly heartless person at times I really enjoyed the story being told in her adult voice from the beginning and that Estella was able to reflect on why she is the way she is throughout.
I loved the gothic Victorian setting, the descriptions of nature and Estella's experiences in high society. There was no huge suspense driving me to turn the pages but at the same time I was invested in Estella and what she would make of herself.
Kathy George has a peaceful and good humoured writing style. I did have a little chuckle at the various Dickens references scattered throughout the novel too.
I read Estella in the sunshine in the park and I can highly recommend you do the same. Or tucked up under a cosy blanket. It is overall a warm story. You won't regret picking up this one.
I wanted to read Great Expectations first but it was sold out in every bookshop I could get to and I wouldn't have read it in time but I will definitely be adding it to my must read pile now.
Although a seemingly heartless person at times I really enjoyed the story being told in her adult voice from the beginning and that Estella was able to reflect on why she is the way she is throughout.
I loved the gothic Victorian setting, the descriptions of nature and Estella's experiences in high society. There was no huge suspense driving me to turn the pages but at the same time I was invested in Estella and what she would make of herself.
Kathy George has a peaceful and good humoured writing style. I did have a little chuckle at the various Dickens references scattered throughout the novel too.
I read Estella in the sunshine in the park and I can highly recommend you do the same. Or tucked up under a cosy blanket. It is overall a warm story. You won't regret picking up this one.
March 22, 2023
This captivating retelling of Dickens’ Great Expectations is from the perspective of Estella. We learn more about the early life of this young adopted daughter of the grief-stricken Miss Havisham with some interesting insights into her, often sad and harsh, upbringing. This provides a depth of understanding to the development of her personality and goes some way in explaining her often cruel behaviour towards Pip, the protagonist of Great Expectations. The story reveals other relationships Estella forms as she gets older and moves to London away from Miss Havisham. These connections and other circumstances lead to some deep self-reflections by Estella. She endeavours to make reparations for her previous deeds and this, for me, was the most engaging part of the story. I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about this character and it inspired me to revisit Great Expectations to put this expansion of Estella’s life in context of the original story. With thanks to Better Reading and HQ Fiction for the uncorrected advance copy to review. #BRpreview
March 28, 2023
Estella….she was brought up to break hearts, but only broke her own.
Adopted by the strange and broken hearted Miss Havisham, in a cold and unloving environment, Estella makes her way in the world by being cruel to others, in particular her childhood friend Pip. Pip unwaveringly loves Estella but he is shunned by her in cruel ways.
After breaking a few hearts, Estella marries Bentley Drummle who is a hideous man and treats her badly.
But Estella learns to stand on her own two feet and makes a life for herself as a single woman, working as a midwife.
Throughout the book, the author’s descriptive passages of the landscape of the marsh and surrounding beautiful countryside of Satis House, her childhood home, is evocative and transports the reader to another world.
Easy to read and vividly descriptive, this reimagined tale of another character from Great Expectations will give insight into life in another time and make you want to reread a timeless novel looking at in a different light.
Love does prevail.
Highly recommend.
Adopted by the strange and broken hearted Miss Havisham, in a cold and unloving environment, Estella makes her way in the world by being cruel to others, in particular her childhood friend Pip. Pip unwaveringly loves Estella but he is shunned by her in cruel ways.
After breaking a few hearts, Estella marries Bentley Drummle who is a hideous man and treats her badly.
But Estella learns to stand on her own two feet and makes a life for herself as a single woman, working as a midwife.
Throughout the book, the author’s descriptive passages of the landscape of the marsh and surrounding beautiful countryside of Satis House, her childhood home, is evocative and transports the reader to another world.
Easy to read and vividly descriptive, this reimagined tale of another character from Great Expectations will give insight into life in another time and make you want to reread a timeless novel looking at in a different light.
Love does prevail.
Highly recommend.
April 6, 2023
I like the idea of taking a character from a classic novel and retelling the story from their perspective, but Great Expectations is a particular favourite, so I was a little concerned.
I needn't have worried as Estella's journey is told beautifully in this re-imagined story.
She comes to life and shines as a character. I sensed the loneliness of her childhood home and isolation of the marshes, felt the bitter cold seep into my bones as freezing fog drifted in and smelled the sour, sodden earth.
Throughout the story, the author weaves in reasons behind Estella's choices and her inner turmoil at wanting, but rejecting affection as a result of Miss Haversham's cruel ways - I shed at tear at times.
She finds unexpected kindness from strangers and ultimately finds the strength to take control of her life.
Not sure I'm a fan of the re-imagined ending, but still found it an enjoyable read.
Thoroughly recommend it.
Thank you to Better Reading and Harlequin for an uncorrected copy for review
I needn't have worried as Estella's journey is told beautifully in this re-imagined story.
She comes to life and shines as a character. I sensed the loneliness of her childhood home and isolation of the marshes, felt the bitter cold seep into my bones as freezing fog drifted in and smelled the sour, sodden earth.
Throughout the story, the author weaves in reasons behind Estella's choices and her inner turmoil at wanting, but rejecting affection as a result of Miss Haversham's cruel ways - I shed at tear at times.
She finds unexpected kindness from strangers and ultimately finds the strength to take control of her life.
Not sure I'm a fan of the re-imagined ending, but still found it an enjoyable read.
Thoroughly recommend it.
Thank you to Better Reading and Harlequin for an uncorrected copy for review
April 4, 2023
‘I am not aware of how old I was when I was taken from my mother.’
Have you ever wondered, reader of ‘Great Expectations’, about Estella’s story? About where she came from and what happened to her? In ‘Estella’ Ms George retells ‘Great Expectations’ from Estella’s perspective. Imagine: a child formed into womanhood by a vengeful Miss Havisham, shaped to capture the hearts of men, and to break them. Pip is provided by Miss Havisham as playmate and test. After being schooled in France, Estella returns to London where she meets Pip again. But Pip is not part of Miss Havisham’s life plan for Estella. While Estella seems to have little choice but to follow Miss Havisham’s wishes, she does make some friends of her own. But encouraged by Ms Havisham, she shuns Pip and then makes a disastrous marriage which further isolates her. Can Estella break free from Miss Havisham’s control and conditioning to find her own place in life?
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, revisiting some of the characters from one of my favourite Charles Dickens novels. I can imagine Estella, now, much as Ms George portrays her: a woman of contradictions. Estella is both caring and cold. She is enigmatic, feisty and guarded. Highly recommended.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Have you ever wondered, reader of ‘Great Expectations’, about Estella’s story? About where she came from and what happened to her? In ‘Estella’ Ms George retells ‘Great Expectations’ from Estella’s perspective. Imagine: a child formed into womanhood by a vengeful Miss Havisham, shaped to capture the hearts of men, and to break them. Pip is provided by Miss Havisham as playmate and test. After being schooled in France, Estella returns to London where she meets Pip again. But Pip is not part of Miss Havisham’s life plan for Estella. While Estella seems to have little choice but to follow Miss Havisham’s wishes, she does make some friends of her own. But encouraged by Ms Havisham, she shuns Pip and then makes a disastrous marriage which further isolates her. Can Estella break free from Miss Havisham’s control and conditioning to find her own place in life?
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, revisiting some of the characters from one of my favourite Charles Dickens novels. I can imagine Estella, now, much as Ms George portrays her: a woman of contradictions. Estella is both caring and cold. She is enigmatic, feisty and guarded. Highly recommended.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
April 12, 2023
I really enjoyed this story about Estella. It was a fun way of hearing her side of the story and kept me enthralled throughout. Our bookclub has just finished reading Great Expectations so when I saw this title I was immediately drawn to it as the story was fresh in my mind and it was like continuing the story but from another angle. I liked the references to the works of Dickens such as Oliver and snippets of Estella's fictional life. I chuckled at the mention of Jarvis's mother as being an 'old hag', at age 62, which is my age now!
I liked the ending of the story which is very different to Great Expectations but fitted in really well. Estella endeared herself to me far more in this story than in Great Expectations and Kathy George did a wonderful job of showing us a possible life of Estella, without all of Pip's angst from Great Expectations.
Highly recommend this even if you haven't read GE.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read it as an ARC.
I liked the ending of the story which is very different to Great Expectations but fitted in really well. Estella endeared herself to me far more in this story than in Great Expectations and Kathy George did a wonderful job of showing us a possible life of Estella, without all of Pip's angst from Great Expectations.
Highly recommend this even if you haven't read GE.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read it as an ARC.
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