Re: Holiday at Hartfield: Twelfth Night

Ah, Emma, a novel I enjoy in spite of itself (or rather, in spite of its heroine, who frustrates/annoys me often). But Hartfield is always charming, and you've conjured a great winter wonderland glow of a tale. I did stumble over the detail about writing Harriet a letter (wait, that wasn't in the book, was it?) but shrugged since it didn't feel too out of place. I only realized the AU aspect toward the end, so kudos for keeping things so in character that I was lulled into it!

As usual, the relationship of all the family members was excellent. George felt suitably himself (even if I think he still might have lectured her a bit, although in this timeline he has the consolation of knowing Robert Martin may be getting a Twelfth Night present too!) His relationship with Emma was warm as Christmas punch, friendly but with the promise of something deeper, and their mutual concern for the others including Mr. Woodhouse was touching.

And though I think Mr. Knightley quite one of the best of Austen's gentlemen: it is of course true that any man, past or present, would arrive with presents and nothing to wrap them in.