MR. COLLINS IN LOVE

Narrator Joel Leslie delivers a sympathetic reimagining of Mr. Collins from PRIDE AND PREJUDICE that grants him a happy ending. While keeping his portrayal of Mr. Collins in the realm of the expected, Leslie tempers it with kindness and curiosity, creating a complete character rather than a caricature. Mr. Collins is painfully awkward but always strives to do his best for his servants, parishioners, and patroness. Leslie portrays Lady Catherine de Bourgh as haughty and controlling, prone to meddling in Mr. Collins's life. In contrast, Leslie portrays Mr. Collins's childhood friend, Jem, who becomes his companion, as a calm and reasonable presence whose addition to the household is a benefit to everyone. Even Charlotte Lucas and her seemingly reckless proposal is given grace and dignity in Leslie's performance. K.M.P. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2025]