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A Pemberley Medley: Five Pride & Prejudice Variations
Five pathways to Pemberley!
It’s the best of all worlds in this collection of five short Pride & Prejudice variations by bestselling writer Abigail Reynolds. Can Mr. Darcy win Elizabeth Bennet’s heart… or are they doomed to misunderstand one another forever? Can Mr. Darcy stand by and watch while Elizabeth loses everything she holds precious… including him?
Contents include “Such Differing Reports”, “A Succession of Rain”, “Reason’s Rule” (an excerpt from The Rule of Reason), “The Most Natural Thing”, and “Intermezzo”.
It’s the best of all worlds in this collection of five short Pride & Prejudice variations by bestselling writer Abigail Reynolds. Can Mr. Darcy win Elizabeth Bennet’s heart… or are they doomed to misunderstand one another forever? Can Mr. Darcy stand by and watch while Elizabeth loses everything she holds precious… including him?
Contents include “Such Differing Reports”, “A Succession of Rain”, “Reason’s Rule” (an excerpt from The Rule of Reason), “The Most Natural Thing”, and “Intermezzo”.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2003
109 people are currently reading
1028 people want to read
About the author
Abigail Reynolds
69 books783 followersAbigail Reynolds may be a nationally bestselling author and a physician, but she can’t follow a straight line with a ruler. Originally from upstate New York, she studied Russian and theater at Bryn Mawr College and marine biology at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole. After a stint in performing arts administration, she decided to attend medical school, and took up writing as a way to retain her sanity during her years as a physician in private practice.
A life-long lover of Jane Austen’s novels, Abigail began writing variations on Pride & Prejudice in 2001, then expanded her repertoire to include a series of novels set on her beloved Cape Cod.Her most recent releases are A Matter of Honor, Mr. Darcy's Enchantment, and Conceit & Concealment. Her books have been translated into six languages. A lifetime member of JASNA, she lives on Cape Cod with her husband, her son and a menagerie of animals. Her hobbies do not include sleeping or cleaning her house.
A life-long lover of Jane Austen’s novels, Abigail began writing variations on Pride & Prejudice in 2001, then expanded her repertoire to include a series of novels set on her beloved Cape Cod.Her most recent releases are A Matter of Honor, Mr. Darcy's Enchantment, and Conceit & Concealment. Her books have been translated into six languages. A lifetime member of JASNA, she lives on Cape Cod with her husband, her son and a menagerie of animals. Her hobbies do not include sleeping or cleaning her house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
November 3, 2018
It has been a bit since I've read this author's work, but it was like slipping back into a cozy place from page one. I was given a reminder of how much I enjoyed her writing and what if twists on the P&P story.
A Pemberley Medley is a compilation of a handful of novella-length and short stories. One is even an alternative ending to another published story. It was fun seeing these various ways Darcy and Lizzy can misunderstand and misjudge and then find their way together. I enjoyed seeing Lizzy give Charlotte's take on Darcy her due or seeing a dastardly Mr. Collins acting like a gothic villain in another. Georgiana playing at matchmaker and oh so many more delights.
I still have more from this author's backlist to catch up and I look forward to more creative 'what if' situations. Austenesque fans who want to spend more time in the P&P world, but want some shorter tales to do it for them should keep these sweet, but also spicy romantic tidbits in mind.
A Pemberley Medley is a compilation of a handful of novella-length and short stories. One is even an alternative ending to another published story. It was fun seeing these various ways Darcy and Lizzy can misunderstand and misjudge and then find their way together. I enjoyed seeing Lizzy give Charlotte's take on Darcy her due or seeing a dastardly Mr. Collins acting like a gothic villain in another. Georgiana playing at matchmaker and oh so many more delights.
I still have more from this author's backlist to catch up and I look forward to more creative 'what if' situations. Austenesque fans who want to spend more time in the P&P world, but want some shorter tales to do it for them should keep these sweet, but also spicy romantic tidbits in mind.
January 15, 2025
A collection of short stories. I enjoy this author's writing style a lot and there are several sweet moments and thoughtful plots in here.
Re-read in Feb 2022: I think Intermezzo is my favorite. But the rest are great too.
Re-read in Feb 2022: I think Intermezzo is my favorite. But the rest are great too.
February 19, 2013
What does an author do when she has a handful of short stories that can't be fleshed out into full-length novels? Leave them to gather dust on her hard-drive? Heavens, no! She instead gathers these delightful stories together and publishes an anthology so all her diehard fans can devour them!
One aspect I loved about this collection of five short stories was how I felt completely fulfilled and satisfied after reading just one story. In the span of thirty minutes readers witness: conflict, misunderstandings, obstacles, mounting tension, realization, understanding, declarations, and a beautiful romantic resolution! It's fast-paced and riveting!
I hope you will find this breakdown helpful!
INTERMEZZO
- The Premise: What if Mr. Darcy, after telling Mr. Bingley the truth about Jane Bennet, sequestered himself in London and avoided interacting with others? What if Elizabeth went to Pemberley and did not encounter Mr. Darcy?
- My Favorite Part: When Mr. Darcy seeks out Lizzy after her disappearance from the wedding breakfast and says, “Please, Miss Bennet...I am not worth your tears.” (and then the dam holding their pent up emotions breaks!)
- Maturity Rating: PG-13
To continue to reading, go to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
One aspect I loved about this collection of five short stories was how I felt completely fulfilled and satisfied after reading just one story. In the span of thirty minutes readers witness: conflict, misunderstandings, obstacles, mounting tension, realization, understanding, declarations, and a beautiful romantic resolution! It's fast-paced and riveting!
I hope you will find this breakdown helpful!
INTERMEZZO
- The Premise: What if Mr. Darcy, after telling Mr. Bingley the truth about Jane Bennet, sequestered himself in London and avoided interacting with others? What if Elizabeth went to Pemberley and did not encounter Mr. Darcy?
- My Favorite Part: When Mr. Darcy seeks out Lizzy after her disappearance from the wedding breakfast and says, “Please, Miss Bennet...I am not worth your tears.” (and then the dam holding their pent up emotions breaks!)
- Maturity Rating: PG-13
To continue to reading, go to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
March 5, 2015
This one originally appeared in an expanded version in the author's Pemberley Medley Anthology of short stories collection focusing on the story and cast of Pride and Prejudice. It is an interesting 'what if' variation that assumes that Darcy and Lizzy had their big blow up at Hunsford and he wrote his letter, that he changed and fixed things with Bingley, and that Lizzy went to see Pemberley, but it removes Wickham and Lydia at Brighton or Darcy and Lizzy meeting at Pemberley. Without those things, they might have a better understanding of each other, but they never have hope of a second chance so are both miserable.
That is until a certain someone decides to interfere on Darcy's behalf and uses the opportunity of Jane and Bingley's wedding to work some romance magic.
I loved this one and particularly the matchmaker. I look forward to reading the expanded version now in the other story collection.
That is until a certain someone decides to interfere on Darcy's behalf and uses the opportunity of Jane and Bingley's wedding to work some romance magic.
I loved this one and particularly the matchmaker. I look forward to reading the expanded version now in the other story collection.
July 26, 2019
5 great short stories
If you like the author’s novel you will love these short stories. If this is your first Abigail Reynolds book, how lucky you are. Read everything she has written. You can thank me later.
If you like the author’s novel you will love these short stories. If this is your first Abigail Reynolds book, how lucky you are. Read everything she has written. You can thank me later.
May 24, 2014
I absolutely adore this book!! I will admit at first I thought "short stories? Oh I am not sure, I want a book I can get my teeth into" however by the end of the first story I had soon cottoned on to the secret of short JAFF stories, Darcy and Elizabeth would be getting to their happily ever after, much sooner than I anticipated!! There's something to be said for instant gratification "it is wonderfully satisfying!" These short stories need to be made into little pocket size books that you can slip into your handbag (or briefcase, I have not forgotten you gentlemen) ready to pull out at any given moment; for instance when you need a little pick me up in times of stress or boredom (like at your desk at work, at the doctors, in an elevator or at the checkout in the supermarket) or quite simply, to bring a smile to your face.
Abigail gives you a little introduction before each story, to set the scene so to speak, like how the story came about or imparting any information that may be relevant.
In the first story Intermezzo, Abigail admits she had to allow for a historical discrepancy and have a wedding breakfast that was a sit down meal, rather than the usual stand-up affair. I am so glad she did because the scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth at the table were lovely!!! After not meeting at Pemberley Georgiana boldly asks Darcy if she can go to Bingley's wedding as Darcy will not be attending. Georgiana is determined to find out who has broken her brothers heart and the only information she has is that her name is Elizabeth. Georgiana is sure that she will be in attendance at the wedding, otherwise why else would her brother not attend? A shy Georgiana with Miss Bingley's unwitting assistance is determined to be introduced to as many guests as possible!
Finally the dam broke on Mrs. Bennet’s words. “Good gracious! Lord bless me! only think! dear me! oh, Lizzy, why did you say nothing? Your hair, your gown... but it is too late, we can only hope - Oh! my sweetest Lizzy! I am so pleased - so happy.”- Abigail Reynolds
Such Differing Reports is a delightful story which starts at Rosings with Elizabeth taking into account Charlotte's observations, that Mr Darcy is partial to her. This was interesting as Elizabeth and Darcy end up working through their differences, before he gets to propose. I may have made this claim before, but the letter that Darcy gives Elizabeth is the complete opposite to the one he gives her in regards to his past dealings with Wickham and It has to be the best letter ever written!!!!
She whirled to see Mr. Darcy, impeccably attired as always, holding a struggling white chicken at arm’s length. She could not help but laugh at the incongruity of the picture. With an attempt at solemnity, she said, “As a rule, chickens prefer not to be held.” Mr. Darcy bent over the stone fence and deposited his charge in the yard. “So I have discovered, but unfortunately, she seemed disinclined to listen to me when I told her to go back.”- Abigail Reynolds
Reason's Rule is actually a large excerpt from a book that did not get published, well it did but without these scenes, the version that did get published was Impulse and Initiative also known as To Conquer Mr Darcy. I loved this story, particularly the following scene; Darcy is downstairs in his study at Pemberley while Elizabeth and the Gardiners are staying with him. He receives a letter from Elizabeth which she has sent with the maid as she cannot bare to face him, sorry that is all I will say as I do not want to spoil it, but what I will say, is that when Darcy makes his way upstairs to see Elizabeth, if you ever doubted the authority of the master of Pemberley you will no more!!!
"I do not believe that he spends his time devising ways to hurt me, but he cannot resist sticking in the knife whenever an opportunity presents itself. You saw him in action in Meryton; it was purely coincidence that our paths crossed there, and it profited him nothing to malign my name, but he could not resist the opportunity" -Abigail Reynolds
The Most Natural Thing is a story that was written by Abigail at a time when Dark Darcy stories were popular. Abigail wanted to see what would happen if she attempted to put her Darcy in dark Darcy's shoes, hilarious and impossible if you ask me! It comes in three parts, part two and three being written years later. Poor Abigail did try but what we get is Dark Collins rather than Dark Darcy!
For a moment her eyes flamed, then, to his surprise, the fire was banked. Something had quelled her spirit. He wondered what punishment her mother had inflicted upon her to make her throw herself on the last man in the world she could be prevailed upon to marry. The memory of her angry countenance as she had spat those words at him made his spine stiffen - Abigail Reynolds
A Succession of Rain, In this story Abigail was challenged to write something that had no angst, no misunderstandings and no misfortunes. "How the hell was she going to do that?" I asked myself, yet Abigail rose to the occasion bringing to an end a wonderful collection of short stories that I had read twice before the week was out!!
A truly wonderful medley that will be used to sate my JAFF addiction, whenever I have not the time to engage in a full length novel.
Originally posted on My Kids led Me Back to Pride & Prejudice
Abigail gives you a little introduction before each story, to set the scene so to speak, like how the story came about or imparting any information that may be relevant.
In the first story Intermezzo, Abigail admits she had to allow for a historical discrepancy and have a wedding breakfast that was a sit down meal, rather than the usual stand-up affair. I am so glad she did because the scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth at the table were lovely!!! After not meeting at Pemberley Georgiana boldly asks Darcy if she can go to Bingley's wedding as Darcy will not be attending. Georgiana is determined to find out who has broken her brothers heart and the only information she has is that her name is Elizabeth. Georgiana is sure that she will be in attendance at the wedding, otherwise why else would her brother not attend? A shy Georgiana with Miss Bingley's unwitting assistance is determined to be introduced to as many guests as possible!
Finally the dam broke on Mrs. Bennet’s words. “Good gracious! Lord bless me! only think! dear me! oh, Lizzy, why did you say nothing? Your hair, your gown... but it is too late, we can only hope - Oh! my sweetest Lizzy! I am so pleased - so happy.”- Abigail Reynolds
Such Differing Reports is a delightful story which starts at Rosings with Elizabeth taking into account Charlotte's observations, that Mr Darcy is partial to her. This was interesting as Elizabeth and Darcy end up working through their differences, before he gets to propose. I may have made this claim before, but the letter that Darcy gives Elizabeth is the complete opposite to the one he gives her in regards to his past dealings with Wickham and It has to be the best letter ever written!!!!
She whirled to see Mr. Darcy, impeccably attired as always, holding a struggling white chicken at arm’s length. She could not help but laugh at the incongruity of the picture. With an attempt at solemnity, she said, “As a rule, chickens prefer not to be held.” Mr. Darcy bent over the stone fence and deposited his charge in the yard. “So I have discovered, but unfortunately, she seemed disinclined to listen to me when I told her to go back.”- Abigail Reynolds
Reason's Rule is actually a large excerpt from a book that did not get published, well it did but without these scenes, the version that did get published was Impulse and Initiative also known as To Conquer Mr Darcy. I loved this story, particularly the following scene; Darcy is downstairs in his study at Pemberley while Elizabeth and the Gardiners are staying with him. He receives a letter from Elizabeth which she has sent with the maid as she cannot bare to face him, sorry that is all I will say as I do not want to spoil it, but what I will say, is that when Darcy makes his way upstairs to see Elizabeth, if you ever doubted the authority of the master of Pemberley you will no more!!!
"I do not believe that he spends his time devising ways to hurt me, but he cannot resist sticking in the knife whenever an opportunity presents itself. You saw him in action in Meryton; it was purely coincidence that our paths crossed there, and it profited him nothing to malign my name, but he could not resist the opportunity" -Abigail Reynolds
The Most Natural Thing is a story that was written by Abigail at a time when Dark Darcy stories were popular. Abigail wanted to see what would happen if she attempted to put her Darcy in dark Darcy's shoes, hilarious and impossible if you ask me! It comes in three parts, part two and three being written years later. Poor Abigail did try but what we get is Dark Collins rather than Dark Darcy!
For a moment her eyes flamed, then, to his surprise, the fire was banked. Something had quelled her spirit. He wondered what punishment her mother had inflicted upon her to make her throw herself on the last man in the world she could be prevailed upon to marry. The memory of her angry countenance as she had spat those words at him made his spine stiffen - Abigail Reynolds
A Succession of Rain, In this story Abigail was challenged to write something that had no angst, no misunderstandings and no misfortunes. "How the hell was she going to do that?" I asked myself, yet Abigail rose to the occasion bringing to an end a wonderful collection of short stories that I had read twice before the week was out!!
A truly wonderful medley that will be used to sate my JAFF addiction, whenever I have not the time to engage in a full length novel.
Originally posted on My Kids led Me Back to Pride & Prejudice
July 17, 2012
Short story only about 15 pages. This novel starts the day of Jane & Bingleys wedding. Elizabeth alludes to the letter that Darcy wrote to her after his refused proposal that she now regrets. She never did bump into him at Pemberley and now she doesn't know if she'll ever see him again as he refused to stand up with Bingley at the wedding. But then as Elizabeth is walking up the aisle, she sees him with an angry look in his eyes - WHY? This short story is full of more misunderstandings between these 2 and how they come to an understanding is very romantic!
July 19, 2020
Wonderful Collection of Short Stories
I love the novels of Abigail Reynolds. This collection of short stories doesn’t disappoint and are just as engaging as her full length books. Very enjoyable. Highly recommend.
I love the novels of Abigail Reynolds. This collection of short stories doesn’t disappoint and are just as engaging as her full length books. Very enjoyable. Highly recommend.
August 12, 2016
The Most Natural Thing = 5 Stars!
Reason's Rule = 4 Stars
A Succession of Rain = 3 Stars
Such Differing Reports = 4 Stars
Intermezzo = 5 Stars!
Reason's Rule = 4 Stars
A Succession of Rain = 3 Stars
Such Differing Reports = 4 Stars
Intermezzo = 5 Stars!
July 25, 2019
Cute short story about Darcy pining for E and a chance encounter at Bingleys' wedding.
August 1, 2023
Delightful
An absolutely delightful collection of stories inspired y Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by the talented Abigail Reynolds. I enjoyed them.
An absolutely delightful collection of stories inspired y Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by the talented Abigail Reynolds. I enjoyed them.
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November 3, 2017Check out my review on Diary of an Eccentric
December 19, 2017
A long time has passed since I originally read or even re-read this collection of short stories. But having retired and determined to now post reviews, I re-read this (again) and read all the reviews here before posting my own. I love Abigail's books and short stories and own all in either paperback, kindle or both. I will not review each story in this collection as the previous reviewers have done that very well. I, too, loved the first several and recognized the book from which the second one emerged (and the book it became). I did not like the fourth story as well, in that it didn't sit well with me that LIzzy would offer herself to Mr. Darcy for the sake of her family - no mention is given to first exploring help from Mrs. Phillips or the Gardiners. (That does happen in other "what-if" books.) Despite her offer, however, I was glad to read that Darcy proved he was a gentleman. Yes, the long love letter was sweetly detailed but in reading these stories I keep thinking of conventions from the time period and even other stories...would she have accepted a letter from him? The first two stories get five stars, three & five get four stars, and the fourth one only three stars so I end up with a four star review.
July 8, 2017
Reynolds has the extraordinary gift of making even short stories deeply felt. This lovely bouquet of 5 short stories is no exception.
Sweet, romantic, passionate and with an exciting plot makes it well worth the effort.
My favourite was the first Intermezzo and the dark one but they are all lovely reads.
Sweet, romantic, passionate and with an exciting plot makes it well worth the effort.
My favourite was the first Intermezzo and the dark one but they are all lovely reads.
March 28, 2017
reread June 27 2016
These are 5 short stories about ODC. Most taking place almost within canon and the fifth being a "Dark Darcy" which isn't very 'dark' at all.
These are 5 short stories about ODC. Most taking place almost within canon and the fifth being a "Dark Darcy" which isn't very 'dark' at all.
November 6, 2015
Collection of short stories inspired in Elizabeth and Darcy. All of them happens after the first proposal, a "what would have happened if...?".
They were well written, and if I could ignore the main characters were Elizabeth and Darcy, it would have been more enjoyable. But sadly, if there is one thing that is hard for me to ignore, is when the author loses the essence that is the character in a retelling. Seems like Elizabeth is The Sweetest (the sweetest girl, has the sweetest lips, etc., etc.) and Darcy is constantly aroused. They are Needy Elizabeth and Hot Hands Darcy.
Darcy cannot control his passion.
Ugh.
Please, don't try to taint the purity of Pride and Prejudice with heated scenes.
They were well written, and if I could ignore the main characters were Elizabeth and Darcy, it would have been more enjoyable. But sadly, if there is one thing that is hard for me to ignore, is when the author loses the essence that is the character in a retelling. Seems like Elizabeth is The Sweetest (the sweetest girl, has the sweetest lips, etc., etc.) and Darcy is constantly aroused. They are Needy Elizabeth and Hot Hands Darcy.
Darcy cannot control his passion.
Ugh.
Please, don't try to taint the purity of Pride and Prejudice with heated scenes.
October 30, 2022
Pure enjoyment!
It was a delight to read these Pride and Prejudice variations written by Abigail Reynolds. I plan to look for her other books.
Each story is different from all the others, thus allowing Elizabeth and Darcy to have different adventures under the same book cover. The titles are "Intermezzo," " Such Differing Reports, " "Reason's Rule," The Most Natural Thing" and "A Succession of Rain. "
10
It was a delight to read these Pride and Prejudice variations written by Abigail Reynolds. I plan to look for her other books.
Each story is different from all the others, thus allowing Elizabeth and Darcy to have different adventures under the same book cover. The titles are "Intermezzo," " Such Differing Reports, " "Reason's Rule," The Most Natural Thing" and "A Succession of Rain. "
10
July 2, 2017
Truly Delightful
Abigail Reynolds is the reason my JAFF obsession began and she proves once again why. All five short stories are pure enjoyment mixed with angst. Loved this medley!
Abigail Reynolds is the reason my JAFF obsession began and she proves once again why. All five short stories are pure enjoyment mixed with angst. Loved this medley!
July 9, 2013
INTERMEZZO: Georgiana Darcy, Cupido
*****
Cosa c'è di diverso:
- Dopo il rifiuto di Elizabeth, Darcy è diventato scontroso e impossibile: si vede che sta sofferndo atrocemente. Georgiana ne è preoccupatissima, ma non sa cosa, o meglio chi ne sia la causa.
- Bingley, forse per questo umore insopportabile di Darcy, decide di non andare con lui a Pemberley, ma già da maggio fa ritorno a Netherfield e rivolge nuovamente il suo interesse verso Jane Bennet.
- Elizabeth si reca in estate a visitare il Derbyshire e Pemberley con gli zii Gardiner, ma NON incontra Mr Darcy.
Il racconto è ambientato nel periodo dei festeggiamenti per l'imminente matrimonio di Bingley con Jane. Darcy si è rifiutato di fare da testimone ed è sempre più convinto a non voler neanche partecipare al matrimonio per non dover rivedere Elizabeth.
Georgiana, invece, decide di vincere la sua timidezza e di presenziare ai festeggiamenti, per il bene di suo fratello: vuole scoprire chi sia la misteriosa dama che lo fa soffrire. Indaga con un'insospettabile audacia e si attacca subito a Lizzie, donandole il suo affetto incondizionato e la sua ammirazione, con gesti spontanei e commuoventi. La sua ostinazione attirerà Darcy nell'Hertfordshire, nonostante tutte le sue riserve e la paura di soffrire e di far soffrire Lizzie.
Nonostante le imprecisioni storiche - chiarite da Abigail Reynolds in prefazione al racconto - questa Variation è molto coinvolgente e appassionata.
SUCH DIFFERING REPORTS (Voci così discordanti): Per dar retta a Charlotte... **** e 1/2
Cosa c'è di diverso:
- Mr Darcy non fa la sua prima proposta nel momento preciso in cui ciò accade in Pride and Prejudice;
- Molte delle questioni in sospeso fra Lizzie e Darcy non vengono chiarite nella lettera, ma verbalmente;
- La lettera di Mr Darcy avrà tutt'altro tono (ma non vi dico niente, perché sarebbe uno spoiler).
Tutto il racconto è ambientato a Hunsford, durante la visita di Lizzie a Charlotte Collins. E proprio Charlotte comprende le intenzioni di Mr Darcy e le fa notare a Elizabeth. Fin qui Pride and Prejudice è praticamente identico all'originale, MA... Lizzie si rende conto che forse la sua amica ha ragione e, per timore di 'subire' una proposta sgradita da Mr Darcy, comincia a provocarlo, coinvolgendolo in dispute verbali che sono ben più violente di quelle che siamo abituati a leggere in un romanzo di Jane Austen. In questo modo la verità su Wickham e su Jane e Bingley verrà fuori molto diversamente: Darcy non avrà alcun bisogno di scrivere la lettera - quella lettera - sebbene Elizabeth abbia sentito per caso la servitù parlare di appassionate epistole che Mr Darcy scrive ogni notte, per poi bruciarle nel camino il mattino successivo...
Sia Darcy che Elizabeth sono molto credibili, ma anche molto più arditi: hanno meno timore di mostrare i propri sentimenti e si battono per farli trionfare.
REASON'S RULE: Buona la prima? Meglio la seconda! *** e 1/2
Cosa c'è di diverso:
- Darcy non si rassegna al rifiuto di Elizabeth a Hunsford e, spronato dal Colonnello Fitzwilliam, si reca subito a Longbourn e la conquista.
Vi sembra di aver già letto questa trama di Variation da qualche parte? Ma certo! Reason's Rule è una variation di variation. I presupposti di questa short story sono i medesimi di Impulse and Initiative.
In seguito al fidanzamento con Lizzy, Darcy le offre un soggiorno a Pemberley durante l'estate - accompagnata dagli zii Gardiner come chaperones, ovviamente - per far conoscere a Elizabeth la sua futura dimora.
In Impulse and Initiative, Darcy ed Elizabeth commettono il "fattaccio" una notte in biblioteca; quindi si sposano subito per timore che lei possa essere rimasta incinta.
In questo finale alternativo (che insieme all'inizio comune con Impulse and Initiative la Reynolds ha auto-pubblicato col titolo di The Rule of Reason) le effusioni fra Lizzie e Darcy, pur essendo infuocate, non arrivano a tanto.
Ve lo devo proprio dire? Per il mio gusto di Janeite moderata, questo finale era infinitamente migliore, con i rapporti tesi fra Darcy e Mr Bennet - che è disperato a dover perdere la sua Elizabeth, l'unica fra le sue figlie che gli offre la possibilità di un dialogo intelligente - e mille altri dettagli che rendono i personaggi di questo racconto più fedeli all'originale rispetto a Impulse and Initiative.
Ma si sa, per gli americani il libro più piccante è più possibilità ha... dunque la Reynolds ha preferito pubblicare Impulse and Initiative, anziché The Rules of Reason...
THE MOST NATURAL THING: E se le peggiori paure di Mrs Bennet si avverassero? ****
Cosa c'è di diverso:
- Poco dopo il rifiuto della prima proposta di Mr Darcy, Lydia fugge con Wickham. Mr Bennet non può fare più niente, perché è morto (la Reynolds non è chiara se sia accaduto a causa della fuga della sua figlia più giovane o per altri motivi) e Mr Collins, entrato in possesso di Longbourn, caccia tutte le Bennet di casa, perché disonorate da Lydia.
Lizzie si metterà, dunque, nelle mani del suo ex-corteggiatore per farsi aiutare a risolvere la situazione e a far tornare la madre e le sorelle nella loro casa. Mr Darcy si comporterà da gentleman, nonostante abbia la possibilità di vendicarsi di colei che l'ha rifiutato così definitivamente, o approfitterà della situazione?
Diviso in tre parti che si svolgono in tre periodi non immediatamente consecutivi, The Most Natural Thing ci mostra l'alternativa a Pride and Prejudice qualora le peggiori paure di Mrs Bennet si avverassero, con la morte di Mr Bennet e un impietoso e subdolo Mr Collins. Per fortuna che c'è un Darcy più Darcy che mai a ristabilire i giusti equilibri.
Forse ci sono un po' troppe effusioni per i miei gusti, ma il sequel è molto originale e scorrevole.
A SUCCESSION OF RAIN: Accidentaccio alla pioggia! **** e 1/2
Cosa c'è di diverso:
- Nient'altro che una pioggia persistente che non permette a Darcy ed Elizabeth di uscire da Longbourn quando ormai Mrs Gardiner ha fatto sapere alla nipote - tramite lettera - del coinvolgimento di Mr Darcy nell'affare Lydia/Wickham e Lady Catherine ha già fatto la sua visita sia a Miss Bennet che a suo nipote. Dunque mancherebbe solo un tête-à-tête chiarificatore ma... piove sempre!
Molto delicata quest'ultima Variation, con un elemento che è una variabile non indifferente del tempo inglese: la pioggia. Siamo in una stagione in cui le precipitazioni sono molto comuni, l'inizio dell'autunno e addirittura ci potrebbero essere degli smottamenti, fiumi che straripano... La Reynolds ci fa notare che non sono solo le nostre azioni che potrebbero far cambiare il corso delle nostre vite, ma anche fattori esterni ineluttabili. E la pioggia persistente non ritarderà solo la seconda dichiarazione di Darcy, ma anche la sua presenza a un evento molto atteso... quell'evento che chiude il cerchio, perché è là che tutto ha avuto inizio...
GIUDIZIO CONCLUSIVO
A Pemberley Medley è un libro da non perdere assolutamente, perché contiene cinque "What if?" davvero interessanti, originali e calzanti. Perché tutti continuiamo a chiederci cosa sarebbe accaduto se...
Sì, d'accordo, Pride and Prejudice è perfetto proprio perché è così com'è, ma Abigail Reynolds ci fa rientrare un'altra volta nella storia e ci fa giocare come in un continuo Lost in Austen, sempre diverso e sempre avvincente. Un must per quest'anno del Bicentenario.
Potete leggere la recensione completa QUI
Cosa c'è di diverso:
- Dopo il rifiuto di Elizabeth, Darcy è diventato scontroso e impossibile: si vede che sta sofferndo atrocemente. Georgiana ne è preoccupatissima, ma non sa cosa, o meglio chi ne sia la causa.
- Bingley, forse per questo umore insopportabile di Darcy, decide di non andare con lui a Pemberley, ma già da maggio fa ritorno a Netherfield e rivolge nuovamente il suo interesse verso Jane Bennet.
- Elizabeth si reca in estate a visitare il Derbyshire e Pemberley con gli zii Gardiner, ma NON incontra Mr Darcy.
Il racconto è ambientato nel periodo dei festeggiamenti per l'imminente matrimonio di Bingley con Jane. Darcy si è rifiutato di fare da testimone ed è sempre più convinto a non voler neanche partecipare al matrimonio per non dover rivedere Elizabeth.
Georgiana, invece, decide di vincere la sua timidezza e di presenziare ai festeggiamenti, per il bene di suo fratello: vuole scoprire chi sia la misteriosa dama che lo fa soffrire. Indaga con un'insospettabile audacia e si attacca subito a Lizzie, donandole il suo affetto incondizionato e la sua ammirazione, con gesti spontanei e commuoventi. La sua ostinazione attirerà Darcy nell'Hertfordshire, nonostante tutte le sue riserve e la paura di soffrire e di far soffrire Lizzie.
Nonostante le imprecisioni storiche - chiarite da Abigail Reynolds in prefazione al racconto - questa Variation è molto coinvolgente e appassionata.
SUCH DIFFERING REPORTS (Voci così discordanti): Per dar retta a Charlotte... **** e 1/2
Cosa c'è di diverso:
- Mr Darcy non fa la sua prima proposta nel momento preciso in cui ciò accade in Pride and Prejudice;
- Molte delle questioni in sospeso fra Lizzie e Darcy non vengono chiarite nella lettera, ma verbalmente;
- La lettera di Mr Darcy avrà tutt'altro tono (ma non vi dico niente, perché sarebbe uno spoiler).
Tutto il racconto è ambientato a Hunsford, durante la visita di Lizzie a Charlotte Collins. E proprio Charlotte comprende le intenzioni di Mr Darcy e le fa notare a Elizabeth. Fin qui Pride and Prejudice è praticamente identico all'originale, MA... Lizzie si rende conto che forse la sua amica ha ragione e, per timore di 'subire' una proposta sgradita da Mr Darcy, comincia a provocarlo, coinvolgendolo in dispute verbali che sono ben più violente di quelle che siamo abituati a leggere in un romanzo di Jane Austen. In questo modo la verità su Wickham e su Jane e Bingley verrà fuori molto diversamente: Darcy non avrà alcun bisogno di scrivere la lettera - quella lettera - sebbene Elizabeth abbia sentito per caso la servitù parlare di appassionate epistole che Mr Darcy scrive ogni notte, per poi bruciarle nel camino il mattino successivo...
Sia Darcy che Elizabeth sono molto credibili, ma anche molto più arditi: hanno meno timore di mostrare i propri sentimenti e si battono per farli trionfare.
REASON'S RULE: Buona la prima? Meglio la seconda! *** e 1/2
Cosa c'è di diverso:
- Darcy non si rassegna al rifiuto di Elizabeth a Hunsford e, spronato dal Colonnello Fitzwilliam, si reca subito a Longbourn e la conquista.
Vi sembra di aver già letto questa trama di Variation da qualche parte? Ma certo! Reason's Rule è una variation di variation. I presupposti di questa short story sono i medesimi di Impulse and Initiative.
In seguito al fidanzamento con Lizzy, Darcy le offre un soggiorno a Pemberley durante l'estate - accompagnata dagli zii Gardiner come chaperones, ovviamente - per far conoscere a Elizabeth la sua futura dimora.
In Impulse and Initiative, Darcy ed Elizabeth commettono il "fattaccio" una notte in biblioteca; quindi si sposano subito per timore che lei possa essere rimasta incinta.
In questo finale alternativo (che insieme all'inizio comune con Impulse and Initiative la Reynolds ha auto-pubblicato col titolo di The Rule of Reason) le effusioni fra Lizzie e Darcy, pur essendo infuocate, non arrivano a tanto.
Ve lo devo proprio dire? Per il mio gusto di Janeite moderata, questo finale era infinitamente migliore, con i rapporti tesi fra Darcy e Mr Bennet - che è disperato a dover perdere la sua Elizabeth, l'unica fra le sue figlie che gli offre la possibilità di un dialogo intelligente - e mille altri dettagli che rendono i personaggi di questo racconto più fedeli all'originale rispetto a Impulse and Initiative.
Ma si sa, per gli americani il libro più piccante è più possibilità ha... dunque la Reynolds ha preferito pubblicare Impulse and Initiative, anziché The Rules of Reason...
THE MOST NATURAL THING: E se le peggiori paure di Mrs Bennet si avverassero? ****
Cosa c'è di diverso:
- Poco dopo il rifiuto della prima proposta di Mr Darcy, Lydia fugge con Wickham. Mr Bennet non può fare più niente, perché è morto (la Reynolds non è chiara se sia accaduto a causa della fuga della sua figlia più giovane o per altri motivi) e Mr Collins, entrato in possesso di Longbourn, caccia tutte le Bennet di casa, perché disonorate da Lydia.
Lizzie si metterà, dunque, nelle mani del suo ex-corteggiatore per farsi aiutare a risolvere la situazione e a far tornare la madre e le sorelle nella loro casa. Mr Darcy si comporterà da gentleman, nonostante abbia la possibilità di vendicarsi di colei che l'ha rifiutato così definitivamente, o approfitterà della situazione?
Diviso in tre parti che si svolgono in tre periodi non immediatamente consecutivi, The Most Natural Thing ci mostra l'alternativa a Pride and Prejudice qualora le peggiori paure di Mrs Bennet si avverassero, con la morte di Mr Bennet e un impietoso e subdolo Mr Collins. Per fortuna che c'è un Darcy più Darcy che mai a ristabilire i giusti equilibri.
Forse ci sono un po' troppe effusioni per i miei gusti, ma il sequel è molto originale e scorrevole.
A SUCCESSION OF RAIN: Accidentaccio alla pioggia! **** e 1/2
Cosa c'è di diverso:
- Nient'altro che una pioggia persistente che non permette a Darcy ed Elizabeth di uscire da Longbourn quando ormai Mrs Gardiner ha fatto sapere alla nipote - tramite lettera - del coinvolgimento di Mr Darcy nell'affare Lydia/Wickham e Lady Catherine ha già fatto la sua visita sia a Miss Bennet che a suo nipote. Dunque mancherebbe solo un tête-à-tête chiarificatore ma... piove sempre!
Molto delicata quest'ultima Variation, con un elemento che è una variabile non indifferente del tempo inglese: la pioggia. Siamo in una stagione in cui le precipitazioni sono molto comuni, l'inizio dell'autunno e addirittura ci potrebbero essere degli smottamenti, fiumi che straripano... La Reynolds ci fa notare che non sono solo le nostre azioni che potrebbero far cambiare il corso delle nostre vite, ma anche fattori esterni ineluttabili. E la pioggia persistente non ritarderà solo la seconda dichiarazione di Darcy, ma anche la sua presenza a un evento molto atteso... quell'evento che chiude il cerchio, perché è là che tutto ha avuto inizio...
GIUDIZIO CONCLUSIVO
A Pemberley Medley è un libro da non perdere assolutamente, perché contiene cinque "What if?" davvero interessanti, originali e calzanti. Perché tutti continuiamo a chiederci cosa sarebbe accaduto se...
Sì, d'accordo, Pride and Prejudice è perfetto proprio perché è così com'è, ma Abigail Reynolds ci fa rientrare un'altra volta nella storia e ci fa giocare come in un continuo Lost in Austen, sempre diverso e sempre avvincente. Un must per quest'anno del Bicentenario.
Potete leggere la recensione completa QUI
August 7, 2011
I positively melted into this book, drowning in Darcy. I didn't leave my computer for two hours as I read the whole thing from start to finish. If anybody had looked in on me they probably would have seen a silly little smile on my face while they failed to catch my attention.
Intermezzo
In this story, Darcy and Elizabeth have not reconciled in time for Bingley and Jane's wedding and Georgiana attempts to discover the woman who is making her brother miserable.
I have read this story three times and still it makes me go aww. It is so sweet with a little humor and kissing and more kissing...sorry, spacing out in remembrance. Maybe I should go read the kissing scenes again, I'll be right back...
Such Differing Reports
In Such Differing Reports, Elizabeth gives more credence to Charlotte's theory that Darcy is in love with her and her boldness causes quarrels, a rather lovely letter and more kissing.
The fights and awkward conversations in this story are wonderful. I love the premise that Elizabeth had an idea of Darcy's affections before he proposed at Hunsford. It changed their interactions completely and led to a whole new level of miscommunication and misunderstanding. I loved the scene where they were communicating with each other right under Lady Catherine's nose and she didn't have a clue.
Reason's Rule
This is an excerpt of a variation of a variation. When Abigail Reynolds wrote To Conquer Mr. Darcy (aka Impulse and Initiative), she had two ideas of where she wanted the story to go. In the end, she chose the version that went into To Conquer Mr. Darcy. However, since she still liked the other version, she wrote The Rule of Reason and this story is from that. In this story, Darcy and Elizabeth are happily engaged when the news comes of Lydia's attempted elopement. Elizabeth tries to protect Darcy from the scandal, but he is having none of it.
I loved Darcy and Elizabeth's growing relationship in this one. They are both in love and together, but they are still learning about each other. I loved Darcy's reaction to Elizabeth's letter when she tried to leave him to protect him. Utterly swoonworthy. The conversations between Mr. Bennet and Darcy were massively entertaining. Though I did get a little ticked off at Mr. Bennet at one point, Darcy's response was just perfect. I am going to have to get a copy of The Rule of Reason so that I can see how this version goes in its entirety.
The Most Natural Thing
The Bennet family is in trouble. Mr. Bennet has passed away and there is nobody that Elizabeth can turn to when Lydia's foolishness threatens to ruin them all. So she goes to the only person she can think of, Mr. Darcy, and offers him the only thing she has, herself.
This story would probably be the most shocking to Austen purists. I mean, Elizabeth offering her virtue to Darcy as part of a bargain? And yet, I can see her doing something like that to save her sisters. Darcy's determination to be gentlemanly is strained to the limits; I loved the part where Darcy tells Elizabeth to throw him in a river.
The Most Natural Thing has them underestimating both themselves and each other. Elizabeth makes incorrect assumptions about Darcy from her lack of knowledge of his character and Darcy believes lies about Elizabeth because he doubts that she could ever love him. Poor Darcy has a really hard time of it in this one, which makes the ending all the sweeter.
A Succession of Rain
What if the rain kept Darcy and Elizabeth from their wandering walks and it was impossible to get any privacy? What might Darcy resort to for a conversation?
A Succession of Rain is pure light-hearted fun. All problems are solved, Darcy has hope that Elizabeth might love him, Elizabeth has hope that Darcy still cares about her...but it is raining and they have no opportunity to talk. After days of uncertainty and veiled conversations, will Darcy's frustration get the better of him? If it does, what will he do? This story made me laugh because of their annoyance at the natural circumstances conspiring to keep them apart.
This collection of short stories is simply delightful. I fully intend to read them over and over again. The combination of Austen's magnificent characters and Abigail's wonderful imagination is utterly perfect.
http://liedermadchen.blogspot.com/201...
Intermezzo
In this story, Darcy and Elizabeth have not reconciled in time for Bingley and Jane's wedding and Georgiana attempts to discover the woman who is making her brother miserable.
I have read this story three times and still it makes me go aww. It is so sweet with a little humor and kissing and more kissing...sorry, spacing out in remembrance. Maybe I should go read the kissing scenes again, I'll be right back...
Such Differing Reports
In Such Differing Reports, Elizabeth gives more credence to Charlotte's theory that Darcy is in love with her and her boldness causes quarrels, a rather lovely letter and more kissing.
The fights and awkward conversations in this story are wonderful. I love the premise that Elizabeth had an idea of Darcy's affections before he proposed at Hunsford. It changed their interactions completely and led to a whole new level of miscommunication and misunderstanding. I loved the scene where they were communicating with each other right under Lady Catherine's nose and she didn't have a clue.
Reason's Rule
This is an excerpt of a variation of a variation. When Abigail Reynolds wrote To Conquer Mr. Darcy (aka Impulse and Initiative), she had two ideas of where she wanted the story to go. In the end, she chose the version that went into To Conquer Mr. Darcy. However, since she still liked the other version, she wrote The Rule of Reason and this story is from that. In this story, Darcy and Elizabeth are happily engaged when the news comes of Lydia's attempted elopement. Elizabeth tries to protect Darcy from the scandal, but he is having none of it.
I loved Darcy and Elizabeth's growing relationship in this one. They are both in love and together, but they are still learning about each other. I loved Darcy's reaction to Elizabeth's letter when she tried to leave him to protect him. Utterly swoonworthy. The conversations between Mr. Bennet and Darcy were massively entertaining. Though I did get a little ticked off at Mr. Bennet at one point, Darcy's response was just perfect. I am going to have to get a copy of The Rule of Reason so that I can see how this version goes in its entirety.
The Most Natural Thing
The Bennet family is in trouble. Mr. Bennet has passed away and there is nobody that Elizabeth can turn to when Lydia's foolishness threatens to ruin them all. So she goes to the only person she can think of, Mr. Darcy, and offers him the only thing she has, herself.
This story would probably be the most shocking to Austen purists. I mean, Elizabeth offering her virtue to Darcy as part of a bargain? And yet, I can see her doing something like that to save her sisters. Darcy's determination to be gentlemanly is strained to the limits; I loved the part where Darcy tells Elizabeth to throw him in a river.
The Most Natural Thing has them underestimating both themselves and each other. Elizabeth makes incorrect assumptions about Darcy from her lack of knowledge of his character and Darcy believes lies about Elizabeth because he doubts that she could ever love him. Poor Darcy has a really hard time of it in this one, which makes the ending all the sweeter.
A Succession of Rain
What if the rain kept Darcy and Elizabeth from their wandering walks and it was impossible to get any privacy? What might Darcy resort to for a conversation?
A Succession of Rain is pure light-hearted fun. All problems are solved, Darcy has hope that Elizabeth might love him, Elizabeth has hope that Darcy still cares about her...but it is raining and they have no opportunity to talk. After days of uncertainty and veiled conversations, will Darcy's frustration get the better of him? If it does, what will he do? This story made me laugh because of their annoyance at the natural circumstances conspiring to keep them apart.
This collection of short stories is simply delightful. I fully intend to read them over and over again. The combination of Austen's magnificent characters and Abigail's wonderful imagination is utterly perfect.
http://liedermadchen.blogspot.com/201...
April 13, 2021
I've read, reread and listened to this version but I have not done that in awhile and needed an Abigail Reynolds Original fix.
As others have said, I have my favorites and those are Intermezzo, and Reason's Rule. Intermezzo has one of my all time favorite scenes.
I did not have as much trouble with The Most Natural Thing as others have. Darcy is written differently than in canon, he has held onto his hurt and humiliation from Elizabeth's turning down his Hunsford proposal. He's rather rough with her and acts more prideful than he ever did back at Netherfield. Very unforgiving, no desire to change for the better in response to Elizabeth's rebuke. So if he is written so differently it doesn't shock me that Elizabeth is written differently. When she offers herself hoping he still cares we have no doubt that she feels she has no other avenue available to her. If you can get past that, the story is beautiful.
Reason's Rule is the second of my two favorites and the last I'll describe. Part of this tale is a variation of the story that became To Conquer Mr Darcy. Another fave Reynolds book. I frankly, don't have any that aren't favorites. The lovely part of this story is the happiness we get to enjoy with ODC while they are betrothed and the Gardiners are visiting Pemberley with Lizzy. The scene where Darcy storms into Elizabeth's bedchamber while she and the Gardiners are discussing their plans to depart to try to find Wickham is wonderful. This book has been out for so long I'm sure it has been spoiled many times over, but....Darcy's reaction to Elizabeth's trying to let him go to protect him is just priceless. "And then he kissed her...."
Highly recommended. Easy to read short stories, lovely to take a coffee break with or in my case read straight through. Elizabeth Klett's narration of the audio book is quite lovely, too.
As others have said, I have my favorites and those are Intermezzo, and Reason's Rule. Intermezzo has one of my all time favorite scenes.
I did not have as much trouble with The Most Natural Thing as others have. Darcy is written differently than in canon, he has held onto his hurt and humiliation from Elizabeth's turning down his Hunsford proposal. He's rather rough with her and acts more prideful than he ever did back at Netherfield. Very unforgiving, no desire to change for the better in response to Elizabeth's rebuke. So if he is written so differently it doesn't shock me that Elizabeth is written differently. When she offers herself hoping he still cares we have no doubt that she feels she has no other avenue available to her. If you can get past that, the story is beautiful.
Reason's Rule is the second of my two favorites and the last I'll describe. Part of this tale is a variation of the story that became To Conquer Mr Darcy. Another fave Reynolds book. I frankly, don't have any that aren't favorites. The lovely part of this story is the happiness we get to enjoy with ODC while they are betrothed and the Gardiners are visiting Pemberley with Lizzy. The scene where Darcy storms into Elizabeth's bedchamber while she and the Gardiners are discussing their plans to depart to try to find Wickham is wonderful. This book has been out for so long I'm sure it has been spoiled many times over, but....Darcy's reaction to Elizabeth's trying to let him go to protect him is just priceless. "And then he kissed her...."
Highly recommended. Easy to read short stories, lovely to take a coffee break with or in my case read straight through. Elizabeth Klett's narration of the audio book is quite lovely, too.
August 10, 2012
I really love Pride and Prejudice so when I saw this book available for free I unfortunately leaped without looking too hard.
There are many things that make P&P great, but the characters are a large part of it. Elizabeth and Darcy have such depth and integrity to them. Lizzie is the bulwark of her family. She isn't another pretty face -- she's strong, smart, stubborn, sassy . . . and yet she also doesn't totally fly in the face of society's standards like Lydia. She is still a lady. She knows which rules matter and which ones don't. Darcy is fiercely loyal to family and friends, quiet and contemplative, thoughtful and with a great deal of integrity. He wouldn't do anything to compromise those he cares about. He despises Wickham - so he would never behave like him.
Yet this book has several escapades by "Elizabeth" and "Darcy" which can be more or less be boiled down to . . . they can't keep their hands off each other. How long can they go between kisses? And not pecks, mind you -- the kind that leave a lady without all the pins in her hair, pulling twigs out of it, having to re-dress herself, Darcy lying to her father to get some alone time with her . . . Each successive story gets worse until the end ones have them sleeping together before marriage -- with lots of description.
Darcy is such a weak minded man that he talks about being crazy if he can't kiss her. He goes into fits of bad temper when he can't be in her presence . . . He certainly doesn't live up to my ideals of Darcy. There's an Elizabeth that offers herself up as his mistress if he'll help her family financially -- so very Lizzie. And another Darcy "threatens" (tongue in cheek) to ruin Elizabeth's reputation out of frustration because she was dancing with other people - and as one option to make her his. These aren't the characters I fell in love with.
Then there is some annoying writing quirks. In an apparent attempt to emulate Austen, the author repeatedly uses the phrases smiled archly (or an arch smile) and fine eyes. This happened so often you could count on it every few pages. At first it seemed like a nice nod to Austen, then it was like a scratched CD.
The two mains sound more like Lydia and Wickam than Darcy and Elizabeth. Maybe the author should write about them instead.
There are many things that make P&P great, but the characters are a large part of it. Elizabeth and Darcy have such depth and integrity to them. Lizzie is the bulwark of her family. She isn't another pretty face -- she's strong, smart, stubborn, sassy . . . and yet she also doesn't totally fly in the face of society's standards like Lydia. She is still a lady. She knows which rules matter and which ones don't. Darcy is fiercely loyal to family and friends, quiet and contemplative, thoughtful and with a great deal of integrity. He wouldn't do anything to compromise those he cares about. He despises Wickham - so he would never behave like him.
Yet this book has several escapades by "Elizabeth" and "Darcy" which can be more or less be boiled down to . . . they can't keep their hands off each other. How long can they go between kisses? And not pecks, mind you -- the kind that leave a lady without all the pins in her hair, pulling twigs out of it, having to re-dress herself, Darcy lying to her father to get some alone time with her . . . Each successive story gets worse until the end ones have them sleeping together before marriage -- with lots of description.
Darcy is such a weak minded man that he talks about being crazy if he can't kiss her. He goes into fits of bad temper when he can't be in her presence . . . He certainly doesn't live up to my ideals of Darcy. There's an Elizabeth that offers herself up as his mistress if he'll help her family financially -- so very Lizzie. And another Darcy "threatens" (tongue in cheek) to ruin Elizabeth's reputation out of frustration because she was dancing with other people - and as one option to make her his. These aren't the characters I fell in love with.
Then there is some annoying writing quirks. In an apparent attempt to emulate Austen, the author repeatedly uses the phrases smiled archly (or an arch smile) and fine eyes. This happened so often you could count on it every few pages. At first it seemed like a nice nod to Austen, then it was like a scratched CD.
The two mains sound more like Lydia and Wickam than Darcy and Elizabeth. Maybe the author should write about them instead.
July 19, 2012
*under construction*
"Intermezzo"
Bingley and Jane are getting married and Darcy and Lizzy find it hard to be near each other. Can they fall in love? That is the question in this short sweet story.
"Such Differing Reports"
Darcy is about to propose but does not and turn of events takes another road. What should she believe to be true? Charlotte a voice of reason :)
Reason's Rule
*fans herself* Oh Mr Darcy :=)he went all alpha at one point.
Anyway, they are engaged, Lydia runs away, drama. Can they manage?
The Most Natural Thing
A glimpse of Dark Darcy, just a a glimpse though. Lizzy is in trouble and asks Darcy for help. Such a gentleman. I love him
A Succession of rain
Rain and rain! The horror, will they ever find time to be alone? Cute story
"Intermezzo"
Bingley and Jane are getting married and Darcy and Lizzy find it hard to be near each other. Can they fall in love? That is the question in this short sweet story.
"Such Differing Reports"
Darcy is about to propose but does not and turn of events takes another road. What should she believe to be true? Charlotte a voice of reason :)
Reason's Rule
*fans herself* Oh Mr Darcy :=)he went all alpha at one point.
Anyway, they are engaged, Lydia runs away, drama. Can they manage?
The Most Natural Thing
A glimpse of Dark Darcy, just a a glimpse though. Lizzy is in trouble and asks Darcy for help. Such a gentleman. I love him
A Succession of rain
Rain and rain! The horror, will they ever find time to be alone? Cute story
January 12, 2013
This was a great Saturday read. I enjoyed Intermezzo, Such Differing Reports, and A Succession of Rain the most, where I found Reason's Rule and The Most Natural Thing a little more out of character, but not all un-enjoyable! "Dark" Darcy in The Most Natural thing isn't really that dark at all, I was expecting worse! Then again, how could we like him as a character if he was truly dark.
I wish some of these were expanded into full novels!
I wish some of these were expanded into full novels!
July 17, 2012
I guess I am an Austen purist. Who knew? This book has several "What if?" stories in it. I liked the first couple and then the book took a turn. This book taught me 2 things. 1) Elizabeth Bennett smiles archly A LOT. 2) Elizabeth Bennett is a slut at heart. Seriously, it was disturbing. Mr. Darcy was no better, but I am more an Elizabeth fan.
January 4, 2012
This, to date, completes my Abigail Reynolds collection. Loved these short stories, or rather pieces from her other works. Thank God Lizzy fall afst for Darcy. The pain that woman puts me through!
January 9, 2017
Wonderful short stories!
Really nice collection for when you just have a short time to read. All of them leave you a happy feeling.
Highly recommended!
Really nice collection for when you just have a short time to read. All of them leave you a happy feeling.
Highly recommended!
May 15, 2021
I like Abigail's stories so I find it fantastic that she published 5 short stories in 1 book. This is the second time I read this story because Abigail's stories are so good that I keep on coming back to read them again. I don't want to spoil it too much but I'll talk briefly about each of them.
The first story, “Intermezzo” is set At Jane's wedding. Elizabeth hasn't seen Darcy in a long time so they haven't reconcile, and he is not even supposed to be coming to the wedding. Georgiana wants to meet the lady that broke her brother's heart, and once she meets her, her perception changes quite much and wants to persuade her to accept him. He eventually appears at the wedding, and after some misunderstandings and holding hands under the table, all is well! Very very sweet!
In “Such Differing Reports” the premise is what if Elizabeth had taken Charlotte's suspicions about Mr Darcy's regard seriously? So she starts thinking about their interactions and considers them in light of this new look on things...and she finds that it could explain some things, but unfortunately it doesn't make the misunderstandings disappear, so some problems persist...but turns out he writes letter in the night and burns them, so she boldly suggests she would like to see one of those letters, and he writes a beautifully romantic and swoon worthy letter that changes things for the better. very sweet too.
“Reason’s Rule” is an excerpt from The Rule of Reason, an alternative to "To conquer Mr Darcy". They differ on how Mr Darcy and Elizabeth finally marry. In this one they don't marry in Pemberley because the library scene turns different probably, so after receiving news of Lydia's elopement, Lizzy tries to free Mr Darcy from their engagement but he is having none of it. They travel to London together and plan how to act together, deciding to marry to not give any power to Wickham. They also come together slowly over the time they spend solving this problem. The tone is very similar to the published version "To conquer Mr Darcy". Very sweet too.
“The Most Natural Thing” has a darker Darcy but not very dark. Lizzy is desperate. Mr bennet has died and Mr Collins in threatening to evict the Bennet ladies, so she goes and... yes, offers a bargain she think he will find irresistible in exchange for his help in saving her family...will he accept or will he do the honourable thing? Will he be offended or take advantage?
Spoiler
It ends well! Sweet as well.
And the last story is “A Succession of Rain” where the only problem is that is raining, a lot and for days, which frustrates Darcy and Elizabeth because they can't meet outside and have some privacy. Very sweet! has funny moments too.
Overall, it is a very nice compilation, short stories that are as good as any of Abigail Reynolds' novels. Recommended for sure!
The first story, “Intermezzo” is set At Jane's wedding. Elizabeth hasn't seen Darcy in a long time so they haven't reconcile, and he is not even supposed to be coming to the wedding. Georgiana wants to meet the lady that broke her brother's heart, and once she meets her, her perception changes quite much and wants to persuade her to accept him. He eventually appears at the wedding, and after some misunderstandings and holding hands under the table, all is well! Very very sweet!
In “Such Differing Reports” the premise is what if Elizabeth had taken Charlotte's suspicions about Mr Darcy's regard seriously? So she starts thinking about their interactions and considers them in light of this new look on things...and she finds that it could explain some things, but unfortunately it doesn't make the misunderstandings disappear, so some problems persist...but turns out he writes letter in the night and burns them, so she boldly suggests she would like to see one of those letters, and he writes a beautifully romantic and swoon worthy letter that changes things for the better. very sweet too.
“Reason’s Rule” is an excerpt from The Rule of Reason, an alternative to "To conquer Mr Darcy". They differ on how Mr Darcy and Elizabeth finally marry. In this one they don't marry in Pemberley because the library scene turns different probably, so after receiving news of Lydia's elopement, Lizzy tries to free Mr Darcy from their engagement but he is having none of it. They travel to London together and plan how to act together, deciding to marry to not give any power to Wickham. They also come together slowly over the time they spend solving this problem. The tone is very similar to the published version "To conquer Mr Darcy". Very sweet too.
“The Most Natural Thing” has a darker Darcy but not very dark. Lizzy is desperate. Mr bennet has died and Mr Collins in threatening to evict the Bennet ladies, so she goes and... yes, offers a bargain she think he will find irresistible in exchange for his help in saving her family...will he accept or will he do the honourable thing? Will he be offended or take advantage?
Spoiler
It ends well! Sweet as well.
And the last story is “A Succession of Rain” where the only problem is that is raining, a lot and for days, which frustrates Darcy and Elizabeth because they can't meet outside and have some privacy. Very sweet! has funny moments too.
Overall, it is a very nice compilation, short stories that are as good as any of Abigail Reynolds' novels. Recommended for sure!
December 18, 2012
Despite having been an Austen (and P&P) enthusiast for as long as I can remember, I approached the insidious world of sequels and retellings only recently.
My first forays into the genre were of the modern kind: Fitzwilliam Darcy, Rock Star, which was positively sizzling, and Prom and Prejudice, which was cute. But I was then curious about some new version of the beloved story, set within the original setting. I'd been hearing good things about Abigail Reynolds' Pemberley Variations for a while and, wanting to sample her writing and her characterization before actually committing to one of her full-fledged novels, decided that this Pemberley Medley was the perfect place to start.
Unfortunately, it wasn't a love match.
The sizzle and charm which had been so enticing in Fitzwilliam Darcy, Rock Star, felt extremely out of place in the period context, with the original Elisabeth and Darcy. As many other reviews have pointed out, neither of the original characters would have been as brash and inappropriate as Reynolds depicts them in most of these short variations. The Lizzie and Darcy we all adore are very passionately in love, but also rational, proper individuals, who would have certainly had the good sense to keep their hands mostly away from each other during their courtship, not only out of love of propriety but also out of a profound respect for each other. Some kissing and romancing, and possibly some rather inappropriate thoughts, would certainly have been part of their time together before the wedding, but surely no fondling in public places, pre-marital sex, and humping up against a tree.
Also, I find it hard to imagine very-proper-Darcy would have had "experiences" before marrying Elisabeth.
I am certainly no prude and I love some good measure of sexual tension followed by sexual fulfillment, even in period novels, if it fits the setting and the characters. Lizzie, Darcy, and Austen's world are neither those characters nor that setting.
Nonetheless, at least the first two short stories were enjoyable.
Intermezzo, 3 stars
What if... Elisabeth and Darcy never got a chance to meet at Pemberley and were to approach Jane and Bingley's wedding with their issues still unresolved and their hearts in turmoil? With the help of Georgiana, curious as to the origin of her brother's brooding, and Bingley's complicity they will finally find resolution.
Here, Reynolds strikes a good balance between the romantic and sensual (not sexual) tension between Elisabeth and Darcy. The characterization is very well done, and the Georgiana point of view was very entertaining.
Such differing reports, 4 stars
What if... Elisabeth believed Charlotte when she called Darcy out on his queer behavior towards her and her foreknowledge of his romantic intentions lead her to change his behavior towards him...
This is the best story of the medley.
The plot changes little, as there's still harsh words between Darcy and Elisabeth, when he finally declares himself, followed by a wonderful letter, and the required change of heart from Elisabeth. It's the characters that get the chance to change their attitudes, their behavior, and their interactions, given the new parameters, and Reynolds handles the tension between them very well.
The letter is, without a doubt, the high point of the whole book.
Reason's rule, 2 and 1/2 stars
What if... Elisabeth and Darcy were already engaged when Lydia ran away with Wickham, giving Wickham one more reason to cause trouble for the Bennets.
This is where Reynolds' downward's spiral begins.
Darcy and Elisabeth can hardly keep their hands off each other, Eisabeth acts totally irrational, with a touch of insecure YA heroine when she gets news of Lydia's flight, Darcy dishonours her in front of her family in order to keep her, and is subsequently downright rude to both Mr. Gardiner and Mr. Bennet. From the way the story is narrated I guess we're supposed to be on Darcy and Elisabeth's side and take Mr. Bennet for an annoying fool, but the truth is Austen's Darcy would have never been so temperamental and and inconsiderate of Elisabeth's father.
The hasty marriage twist feels really forced: if Darcy and Bingley don't care about Lydia's situation with regards to how it affects their fiancées, Wickham can hardly have them at a disadvantage there, so there's no reason to rush the wedding, except to have them jump in bed ASAP... Because, of course, Reynolds Lizzie and Darcy are hornier than Brooke Logan on an hormonal high. Big no-no,
The most natural thing, 1 star
What if... Darcy and Elisabeth never got a chance to resolve their issues after Darcy's first proposal, but soon after Mr. Bennet passes away, leaving the Bennet women at the mercy of their cousin Collins. Elisabeth finds no option but to turn to Darcy for help.
This story is supposed to be a "Dark Darcy" tale, but I honestly don't see anything darker or different from the other Darcys in the book. Maybe Reynolds just set up a "Dark Darcy" situation, but had her regular Darcy act it out.
In any case, nothing about the whole thing works. Elisabeth is completely out of character since the last thing she would have done in a similar situation would have been to turn to Darcy... In one of the actual Pemberley Variations it seems like she goes to work as a nanny to support the rest of the family, which makes much more sense. Elisabeth would have probably begged on the street before dishonoring herself in front of Darcy.
The incarceration twist is absolutely rushed and makes very little sense, especially how Darcy reacts to the tale he's told to explain Lizzie's disappearance.
Also rather pointless is Lizzie giving herself to Darcy the night before the wedding, and the reasoning she gives for it.
Due to the haphazard pace, the awful characterization and the lame premise, this is nothing more than bad fanfiction, and I expect more for a published work which I paid for.
A succession of rain, 2 stars
What if... The pouring, endless rain kept Elisabeth and Darcy from having some much needed privacy to finally declare their mutual feelings to each other.
This story was all right, if a little bit forced, for the best part of it. Then, when our two beloved are finally alone, instead of confessing again, Darcy simply tells Lizzie that it doesn't really matter what she wants, cause he's gonna dishonor her anyways so she'll be forced to marry him.
No. Just... No.
That's classical YA Alpha male BS and it wouldn't have flown with either Elisabeth or Darcy himself. Any good author can make Alpha male work. A very good author can make Alpha male work even with a kick ass heroine by his side, and I can enjoy it as much as the next person. Unfortunately for Reynolds (but luckily for all of us) these characters are not cut out for it, and the result is very disappointing.
My first forays into the genre were of the modern kind: Fitzwilliam Darcy, Rock Star, which was positively sizzling, and Prom and Prejudice, which was cute. But I was then curious about some new version of the beloved story, set within the original setting. I'd been hearing good things about Abigail Reynolds' Pemberley Variations for a while and, wanting to sample her writing and her characterization before actually committing to one of her full-fledged novels, decided that this Pemberley Medley was the perfect place to start.
Unfortunately, it wasn't a love match.
The sizzle and charm which had been so enticing in Fitzwilliam Darcy, Rock Star, felt extremely out of place in the period context, with the original Elisabeth and Darcy. As many other reviews have pointed out, neither of the original characters would have been as brash and inappropriate as Reynolds depicts them in most of these short variations. The Lizzie and Darcy we all adore are very passionately in love, but also rational, proper individuals, who would have certainly had the good sense to keep their hands mostly away from each other during their courtship, not only out of love of propriety but also out of a profound respect for each other. Some kissing and romancing, and possibly some rather inappropriate thoughts, would certainly have been part of their time together before the wedding, but surely no fondling in public places, pre-marital sex, and humping up against a tree.
Also, I find it hard to imagine very-proper-Darcy would have had "experiences" before marrying Elisabeth.
I am certainly no prude and I love some good measure of sexual tension followed by sexual fulfillment, even in period novels, if it fits the setting and the characters. Lizzie, Darcy, and Austen's world are neither those characters nor that setting.
Nonetheless, at least the first two short stories were enjoyable.
Intermezzo, 3 stars
What if... Elisabeth and Darcy never got a chance to meet at Pemberley and were to approach Jane and Bingley's wedding with their issues still unresolved and their hearts in turmoil? With the help of Georgiana, curious as to the origin of her brother's brooding, and Bingley's complicity they will finally find resolution.
Here, Reynolds strikes a good balance between the romantic and sensual (not sexual) tension between Elisabeth and Darcy. The characterization is very well done, and the Georgiana point of view was very entertaining.
Such differing reports, 4 stars
What if... Elisabeth believed Charlotte when she called Darcy out on his queer behavior towards her and her foreknowledge of his romantic intentions lead her to change his behavior towards him...
This is the best story of the medley.
The plot changes little, as there's still harsh words between Darcy and Elisabeth, when he finally declares himself, followed by a wonderful letter, and the required change of heart from Elisabeth. It's the characters that get the chance to change their attitudes, their behavior, and their interactions, given the new parameters, and Reynolds handles the tension between them very well.
The letter is, without a doubt, the high point of the whole book.
Reason's rule, 2 and 1/2 stars
What if... Elisabeth and Darcy were already engaged when Lydia ran away with Wickham, giving Wickham one more reason to cause trouble for the Bennets.
This is where Reynolds' downward's spiral begins.
Darcy and Elisabeth can hardly keep their hands off each other, Eisabeth acts totally irrational, with a touch of insecure YA heroine when she gets news of Lydia's flight, Darcy dishonours her in front of her family in order to keep her, and is subsequently downright rude to both Mr. Gardiner and Mr. Bennet. From the way the story is narrated I guess we're supposed to be on Darcy and Elisabeth's side and take Mr. Bennet for an annoying fool, but the truth is Austen's Darcy would have never been so temperamental and and inconsiderate of Elisabeth's father.
The hasty marriage twist feels really forced: if Darcy and Bingley don't care about Lydia's situation with regards to how it affects their fiancées, Wickham can hardly have them at a disadvantage there, so there's no reason to rush the wedding, except to have them jump in bed ASAP... Because, of course, Reynolds Lizzie and Darcy are hornier than Brooke Logan on an hormonal high. Big no-no,
The most natural thing, 1 star
What if... Darcy and Elisabeth never got a chance to resolve their issues after Darcy's first proposal, but soon after Mr. Bennet passes away, leaving the Bennet women at the mercy of their cousin Collins. Elisabeth finds no option but to turn to Darcy for help.
This story is supposed to be a "Dark Darcy" tale, but I honestly don't see anything darker or different from the other Darcys in the book. Maybe Reynolds just set up a "Dark Darcy" situation, but had her regular Darcy act it out.
In any case, nothing about the whole thing works. Elisabeth is completely out of character since the last thing she would have done in a similar situation would have been to turn to Darcy... In one of the actual Pemberley Variations it seems like she goes to work as a nanny to support the rest of the family, which makes much more sense. Elisabeth would have probably begged on the street before dishonoring herself in front of Darcy.
The incarceration twist is absolutely rushed and makes very little sense, especially how Darcy reacts to the tale he's told to explain Lizzie's disappearance.
Also rather pointless is Lizzie giving herself to Darcy the night before the wedding, and the reasoning she gives for it.
Due to the haphazard pace, the awful characterization and the lame premise, this is nothing more than bad fanfiction, and I expect more for a published work which I paid for.
A succession of rain, 2 stars
What if... The pouring, endless rain kept Elisabeth and Darcy from having some much needed privacy to finally declare their mutual feelings to each other.
This story was all right, if a little bit forced, for the best part of it. Then, when our two beloved are finally alone, instead of confessing again, Darcy simply tells Lizzie that it doesn't really matter what she wants, cause he's gonna dishonor her anyways so she'll be forced to marry him.
No. Just... No.
That's classical YA Alpha male BS and it wouldn't have flown with either Elisabeth or Darcy himself. Any good author can make Alpha male work. A very good author can make Alpha male work even with a kick ass heroine by his side, and I can enjoy it as much as the next person. Unfortunately for Reynolds (but luckily for all of us) these characters are not cut out for it, and the result is very disappointing.
May 25, 2020
Undeniably cute
This was like skipping to the good part of every book. I liked all these mini stories. A very quick and entertaining read. I had started this book awhile ago got through the first two stories and after reading the preface for the third story I stopped and went to read the story it was the alternate to and then found myself finishing all of Abigail’s books before coming back to this one. Can’t believe I put off finishing this one for so long because I sat there with a stupid smile on my face for the remainder of the 3 stories I hadn’t got through yet. If you’re looking for something quick and to the point this medley is perfect. Loved it and I think I’ll find myself going back to it from time to time.
This was like skipping to the good part of every book. I liked all these mini stories. A very quick and entertaining read. I had started this book awhile ago got through the first two stories and after reading the preface for the third story I stopped and went to read the story it was the alternate to and then found myself finishing all of Abigail’s books before coming back to this one. Can’t believe I put off finishing this one for so long because I sat there with a stupid smile on my face for the remainder of the 3 stories I hadn’t got through yet. If you’re looking for something quick and to the point this medley is perfect. Loved it and I think I’ll find myself going back to it from time to time.
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