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Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman #1
An Assembly Such as This
"She is tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt me."
So begins the timeless romance of Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice. Jane Austen's classic novel is beloved by millions, but little is revealed in the book about the mysterious and handsome hero, Mr. Darcy. And so the question has long remained: Who is Fitzwilliam Darcy?
In An Assembly Such as This, Pamela Aidan finally answers that long-standing question. In this first book of her Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman trilogy, she reintroduces us to Darcy during his visit to Hertfordshire with his friend Charles Bingley and reveals Darcy's hidden perspective on the events of Pride and Prejudice. As Darcy spends more time at Netherfield supervising Bingley and fending off Miss Bingley's persistent advances, his unwilling attraction to Elizabeth grows—as does his concern about her relationship with his nemesis, George Wickham.
Setting the story vividly against the colorful historical and political background of the Regency, Aidan writes in a style comfortably at home with Austen but with a wit and humor very much her own. Aidan adds her own cast of fascinating characters to those in Austen's original, weaving a rich tapestry from Darcy's past and present. Austen fans and newcomers alike will love this new chapter of the most famous romance of all time.
So begins the timeless romance of Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice. Jane Austen's classic novel is beloved by millions, but little is revealed in the book about the mysterious and handsome hero, Mr. Darcy. And so the question has long remained: Who is Fitzwilliam Darcy?
In An Assembly Such as This, Pamela Aidan finally answers that long-standing question. In this first book of her Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman trilogy, she reintroduces us to Darcy during his visit to Hertfordshire with his friend Charles Bingley and reveals Darcy's hidden perspective on the events of Pride and Prejudice. As Darcy spends more time at Netherfield supervising Bingley and fending off Miss Bingley's persistent advances, his unwilling attraction to Elizabeth grows—as does his concern about her relationship with his nemesis, George Wickham.
Setting the story vividly against the colorful historical and political background of the Regency, Aidan writes in a style comfortably at home with Austen but with a wit and humor very much her own. Aidan adds her own cast of fascinating characters to those in Austen's original, weaving a rich tapestry from Darcy's past and present. Austen fans and newcomers alike will love this new chapter of the most famous romance of all time.
255 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2003
537 people are currently reading
21069 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Aidan
12 books396 followersPamela Aidan grew up in small towns in southeast Pennsylvania but found her heart's home in the Pacific Northwest where she lives with her husband and a feisty miniature Australian Shepherd.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,737 reviews
September 30, 2008
After all I'd heard about this series, and the many recommendations I'd seen, I was kind of shocked to find how badly this was written.
This is supposed to be the best insight into the character of Darcy and instead we get inconsistency and pointless detail. In general, I disagree with the interpretation that has Darcy madly in love with Elizabeth about .3 seconds after insulting her at the Netherfield Assembly. But I could put up with that if it were done well. This Darcy swings confusingly from obsession with Elizabeth's every move, to childish irritation whenever she zings him. He's nothing even close to a realistic man, but rather a mish-mash of heroic clichés (he is the only person who can handle his high-spirited black stallion! Hee!) that reminds me of the imaginary games I used to play when I was twelve. Add in a few allusions to Darcy as played by Colin Firth in the '95 adaptation (twirl that pinky ring, Colin Darcy!) and you've got this reader, at least, snickering rather than swooning.
Elizabeth as seen through this Darcy's eyes is similarly a blend of irritating feminine tropes who would probably seem a lot more sympathetic if you turned her into a drinking game (sip every time the author describes her as "delicate"). It's as if the author had never actually observed a real person and how emotion would make that person act, but instead uses whatever literary or movie stereotype seems most appropriate. (People do not "quirk" their eyebrows nearly as often as she thinks they do, nor are snorts usually "delicate." *slurp*)
The book improves just a bit after Darcy gets to London and the author leaves Austen's narrative (and Darcy's obsession with Elizabeth) mostly behind. The Darcy-Bingley interactions are some of the better-written passages. However, the ton society bits seem out of place at best and farfetched at worst. It's a little difficult to buy Darcy as a rival to Brummel, even reluctantly, or hobnobbing with the scandalous Caroline Lamb. It's so much the antithesis to everything Austen wrote about. These scenes are a little more interesting than the rest of the book, but if the author wanted to write a high society regency, maybe she should have done that as an original novel instead of trying to shoehorn it into an Austen fic. I don't feel as though the London episodes do a whole lot to enlighten us on Darcy's character. They feel as though they were added because the author COULD, rather than with a purpose that fits into the narrative as a whole.
Plus, I would like to assume that Aidan did her research on the regency period, but I suspect it did not extend to much more than lots of Heyer – I caught some errors myself, and I'm no expert. (Come on, Darcy would have known what a waltz was, musically at least. They had 3/4 time long before they did the face-to-face ballroom dancing. There's even a waltz mentioned in Emma although it's clearly meant only musically, not as in dancing style.) Heyer-ish slang also seems out of place in Austen. (Darcy is constantly calling Bingley a "gudgeon" which seems really odd for Darcy.)
Which brings me to language and style. The book reads as if the author had used a thesaurus for every fifth word, but only correctly about half the time. ("Unwittingly" does not mean what she thinks it means.) And yeah, Shakespeare had a great vocabulary too, but Ms. Aidan is missing the point that it's not really about how many different words you can use, but how WELL you use them. She certainly doesn't understand how to describe evocatively or effectively. I assume in some attempt to mimic the complexity of early 19th century writing, her style is a grammatic disaster, full of unnecessary passive voice, vague or missing antecedents, and pointless clauses wherever she can work in a few more adverbs. The problem is that Jane Austen's prose, while probably a little more complex than we're used to, is always clear and incisive and you usually don't have to read her sentences three times just to understand what she's getting at.
Let's look at a brief snippet to show what I mean about language and style.
"...The last to accept his cup, Bingley paused at Darcy's side and motioned with a quirk of his chin to the vacant seats next to Elizabeth and her sister. [No! Chins do not "quirk" and pointing with your chin is rude and obvious.] Even as he silently declined the invitation, [how did he do that? shake his head? "quirk" his eyebrow?] Darcy could not prevent or deny the bittersweet pull on his senses the opportunity presented. [See, getting trapped by a needlessly complex sentence structure -- "pulls" do not "present". They pull. This would be better: "Darcy could not deny a bittersweet pull on his senses." Much clearer AND more effective, although a bit cliched.] Determinedly, he took up a position somewhat apart from the others, from which he could safely bide his time. ["Determinedly" is like the most awkward adverb ever AND should be unnecessary -- SHOW NOT TELL.]
As it was, the conversation was consumed with the ball that Bingley had promised. [I don't like "consumed" here... it feels like the wrong word, too violent for the context. Perhaps "occupied" or "engaged".] Since the others were well aware of his aversion to the scheme, Darcy's opinions were not solicited, even by Miss Bingley, and he was left to his silent contemplation. [Unnecessary use of passive voice -- sentence would be stronger if it read "..., even Miss Bingley refrained from soliciting his opinion." Full stop. Last phrase is repetitive.] Relieved that he would not have to take part in a conversation fraught with traps that would militate against his plan, [Mixed metaphor! Traps do not "militate"!] Darcy breathed in the tangy scents of earth and vegetation. [Eh, in my opinion earth does not smell "tangy", which implies sour or citrusy. Pick fitting words! Don't just use the first one that comes to mind!] Suddenly there swept over him an acute longing. Pemberley! [Now, that's just cheesy. But whatever.]..."
If edited properly, these books could be one volume instead of three.
This is supposed to be the best insight into the character of Darcy and instead we get inconsistency and pointless detail. In general, I disagree with the interpretation that has Darcy madly in love with Elizabeth about .3 seconds after insulting her at the Netherfield Assembly. But I could put up with that if it were done well. This Darcy swings confusingly from obsession with Elizabeth's every move, to childish irritation whenever she zings him. He's nothing even close to a realistic man, but rather a mish-mash of heroic clichés (he is the only person who can handle his high-spirited black stallion! Hee!) that reminds me of the imaginary games I used to play when I was twelve. Add in a few allusions to Darcy as played by Colin Firth in the '95 adaptation (twirl that pinky ring, Colin Darcy!) and you've got this reader, at least, snickering rather than swooning.
Elizabeth as seen through this Darcy's eyes is similarly a blend of irritating feminine tropes who would probably seem a lot more sympathetic if you turned her into a drinking game (sip every time the author describes her as "delicate"). It's as if the author had never actually observed a real person and how emotion would make that person act, but instead uses whatever literary or movie stereotype seems most appropriate. (People do not "quirk" their eyebrows nearly as often as she thinks they do, nor are snorts usually "delicate." *slurp*)
The book improves just a bit after Darcy gets to London and the author leaves Austen's narrative (and Darcy's obsession with Elizabeth) mostly behind. The Darcy-Bingley interactions are some of the better-written passages. However, the ton society bits seem out of place at best and farfetched at worst. It's a little difficult to buy Darcy as a rival to Brummel, even reluctantly, or hobnobbing with the scandalous Caroline Lamb. It's so much the antithesis to everything Austen wrote about. These scenes are a little more interesting than the rest of the book, but if the author wanted to write a high society regency, maybe she should have done that as an original novel instead of trying to shoehorn it into an Austen fic. I don't feel as though the London episodes do a whole lot to enlighten us on Darcy's character. They feel as though they were added because the author COULD, rather than with a purpose that fits into the narrative as a whole.
Plus, I would like to assume that Aidan did her research on the regency period, but I suspect it did not extend to much more than lots of Heyer – I caught some errors myself, and I'm no expert. (Come on, Darcy would have known what a waltz was, musically at least. They had 3/4 time long before they did the face-to-face ballroom dancing. There's even a waltz mentioned in Emma although it's clearly meant only musically, not as in dancing style.) Heyer-ish slang also seems out of place in Austen. (Darcy is constantly calling Bingley a "gudgeon" which seems really odd for Darcy.)
Which brings me to language and style. The book reads as if the author had used a thesaurus for every fifth word, but only correctly about half the time. ("Unwittingly" does not mean what she thinks it means.) And yeah, Shakespeare had a great vocabulary too, but Ms. Aidan is missing the point that it's not really about how many different words you can use, but how WELL you use them. She certainly doesn't understand how to describe evocatively or effectively. I assume in some attempt to mimic the complexity of early 19th century writing, her style is a grammatic disaster, full of unnecessary passive voice, vague or missing antecedents, and pointless clauses wherever she can work in a few more adverbs. The problem is that Jane Austen's prose, while probably a little more complex than we're used to, is always clear and incisive and you usually don't have to read her sentences three times just to understand what she's getting at.
Let's look at a brief snippet to show what I mean about language and style.
"...The last to accept his cup, Bingley paused at Darcy's side and motioned with a quirk of his chin to the vacant seats next to Elizabeth and her sister. [No! Chins do not "quirk" and pointing with your chin is rude and obvious.] Even as he silently declined the invitation, [how did he do that? shake his head? "quirk" his eyebrow?] Darcy could not prevent or deny the bittersweet pull on his senses the opportunity presented. [See, getting trapped by a needlessly complex sentence structure -- "pulls" do not "present". They pull. This would be better: "Darcy could not deny a bittersweet pull on his senses." Much clearer AND more effective, although a bit cliched.] Determinedly, he took up a position somewhat apart from the others, from which he could safely bide his time. ["Determinedly" is like the most awkward adverb ever AND should be unnecessary -- SHOW NOT TELL.]
As it was, the conversation was consumed with the ball that Bingley had promised. [I don't like "consumed" here... it feels like the wrong word, too violent for the context. Perhaps "occupied" or "engaged".] Since the others were well aware of his aversion to the scheme, Darcy's opinions were not solicited, even by Miss Bingley, and he was left to his silent contemplation. [Unnecessary use of passive voice -- sentence would be stronger if it read "..., even Miss Bingley refrained from soliciting his opinion." Full stop. Last phrase is repetitive.] Relieved that he would not have to take part in a conversation fraught with traps that would militate against his plan, [Mixed metaphor! Traps do not "militate"!] Darcy breathed in the tangy scents of earth and vegetation. [Eh, in my opinion earth does not smell "tangy", which implies sour or citrusy. Pick fitting words! Don't just use the first one that comes to mind!] Suddenly there swept over him an acute longing. Pemberley! [Now, that's just cheesy. But whatever.]..."
If edited properly, these books could be one volume instead of three.
November 4, 2018
Maravilloso! Creo que la autora ha hecho un magnífico trabajo de documentación en cuanto a época y costumbres, y que ha sabido captar a la perfección el corazón de Darcy. Esta versión de Orgullo y Prejuicio me ha conquistado. A por el segundo ;)
on-hiatus
May 5, 2017DNF at about 20%. This came very highly recommended by a couple of GR friends as the cream of the crop when it comes to Jane Austen take-offs, but it was not what I was expecting. It's a dead-serious retelling of the entire Pride and Prejudice story, from Darcy's point of view. What I read, I found rather boring. And Aidan takes three volumes to retell the whole story! This book just ends about 1/3 of the way through. O_o
I can see myself enjoyingthis book these books sometime later when I'm in a really serious need for an Austen fix. Now, however, is not that time.
I can see myself enjoying
Read
May 5, 2014
Pages Survived: 160
I'm so terrible. I don't WANT to say it, and I feel like a total unintelligent book-snob for feeling this way but...
This book was painfully boring. I know, I know. I should be more open minded, especially considering the fact that I've bitched for years saying I always wanted Darcy's perspective on the Pride and Prejudice story. Here I have it, handed to me on a silver friggin' platter and apparently my picky-ass brain says it's not enough. Go frackin' figure, right? Well, it's not.
"So what could possibly be wrong with this, Jacqueline?!" as I'm sure you're absolutely not asking yourself. The short answer is...Wait for it!...Not a single thing. Yeah, anticlimactic, I know, and so not helpful. But, the reality is there simply isn't something that I can point to and say with absolute certainty, "This! This thing, right here, is the downfall of this novel and all ye who write said thing shall collectively go off yourself!" The writing is great, truly detailed with vivid description that doesn't bog itself down with its own weight. The characters match their source material excellently. The plotting adheres wonderfully to the original with just enough deviation to keep it interesting.
I DON'T KNOW! Honestly, my biggest and best guess has to be the fact that I'm too much of a modern book snob. Yes, I know this is fanfiction and a retelling written by a modern author, but sadly I've become too used to stories where there's a heavy focus on the lead couple spending a good chunk of time together. Shhhh! *Dodges the thrown shoe.* Yes, I KNOW I'm a walking moron, especially when considering that's the antithesis of the Pride and Prejudice story and how dare I be so asinine as to use that as a criticism. I know, I hate myself too.
So, what's the takeaway, here? Well, people, (as if anyone's actually reading this but we'll pretend so for my sake), the reality is I didn't like this book, and I want you to read it because it's marvelous and I'm a dipshit. As I said, this author did an excellent job at walking the line between source material and new material. Her writing is orgasmically well done, she gets the characters in a way that so rarely ever happens in fanfiction, and I should be slapped in the face for still not finding enough emotional drama between Lizzie and Darcy to keep me reading until the end. So, please, DON'T take my DNF-word for it, and go read it, humans. Dear book, please know...
February 28, 2008
I have yet to find an attempted Pride and Prejudice sequel to be worth my time. This novel is the first that really does the story justice. While this book isn't a sequel, it's a wannabe adaptation: the first of three novels which basically retell the story of Pride and Prejudice from the viewpoint of Mr. Darcy. A viewpoint that Austen readers have wondered about since the novel was published. This one ends after the ball at Netherfield, with Darcy and Miss Bingley conspiring to remove Charles from Hertfordshire.
While Aidan manages to capture some of the language of the time, she doesn't attempt to be Jane Austen and I appreciated that. Most of Darcy's story is, by necessity imagined, but the author has a good grasp of Mr. Darcy. Her interpretations are believable. I enjoyed the little details, such as when Darcy purchases books for his sister, one of them is "Sense and Sensibility". That was a fun little addition. His interactions with his valet and household staff serve to portray him as the kind master his housekeeper alludes to in the original novel.
Aidan is most definitely a fan of the Jennifer Ehle/Colin Firth version of Pride and Prejudice. (Thank goodness for that, because I can't abide anything that refers to the Keira Knightley farce.) It's very easy to picture the scenes from the film as you read the book. One even wonders if her adaptations come from Colin Firth's Darcy, more than Jane Austen's Darcy. Still, I can recommend it with no reservations.
While Aidan manages to capture some of the language of the time, she doesn't attempt to be Jane Austen and I appreciated that. Most of Darcy's story is, by necessity imagined, but the author has a good grasp of Mr. Darcy. Her interpretations are believable. I enjoyed the little details, such as when Darcy purchases books for his sister, one of them is "Sense and Sensibility". That was a fun little addition. His interactions with his valet and household staff serve to portray him as the kind master his housekeeper alludes to in the original novel.
Aidan is most definitely a fan of the Jennifer Ehle/Colin Firth version of Pride and Prejudice. (Thank goodness for that, because I can't abide anything that refers to the Keira Knightley farce.) It's very easy to picture the scenes from the film as you read the book. One even wonders if her adaptations come from Colin Firth's Darcy, more than Jane Austen's Darcy. Still, I can recommend it with no reservations.
July 19, 2008
Okay, This was LAME. The whole series. Being an avid Jane Austen fan, when I heard that there was a good addition to the list of P&P sequels and spin-offs, I was all gung-ho on reading them. I even bought them at Costco, I was so sure they were going to be good. Boy was I wrong! I was either gagging or gafawing the entire time. Aidan dwelt far to long on Darcy's 'Passion'. About every other page was riddled with his sighs and and his "Heart thudding against his rib-cage", and his inability to say anything to her about it. I hated this. There was no really falling in love. We meet Darcy, in the next chapter he's in love, and so for the rest of the series we get to suffer through his little idiocies of love-sickness. Now, don't get me wrong here, I'm a hopeless romantic, but it has to Romantic, not just Mushy. : ) It was almost embarassing!
Don't read these. It almost tainted my view of Mr. Darcy. *gasp*
Cassie
Don't read these. It almost tainted my view of Mr. Darcy. *gasp*
Cassie
January 29, 2016
"It was tolerable but not enough to convince me."
Pam - it was a great idea but you overwrote it.
No doubt it doesn't matter a jot, Pam has sold loads of these pretty crappy books, but here's why I didn't enjoy it.
1) Too much information
2) Austen didn't write about politics - you should've left it out.
3) I was really only reading it to find out about D's reaction and thoughts to E, but we got huge amounts of info where D was in town, D was talking to his horse, D was yabbering with his valet. Snore.
4) Darcy comes across as a vain idiot when I think he was PERCEIVED to be so. In fact I think D is meant to be a kinder, warmer person than Austen appears to make him, as evidenced by the way he treats Georgiana, his servants, his friends. Austen is good like that, she's subtle. You have to peel back layers. This is why it's worth reconsidering Darcy or Mrs Bennett. So, his nasty condescending thoughts in this book by Pam don't ring true.
5) Really, this is only book ONE. God help me I'd never have started it if I'd know I had to wade through even more trite shite. Pam, you had plenty of room to tie this up. Austen did it; the fact you couldn't do it proves you're full of wind.
Don't read this.
Pam - it was a great idea but you overwrote it.
No doubt it doesn't matter a jot, Pam has sold loads of these pretty crappy books, but here's why I didn't enjoy it.
1) Too much information
2) Austen didn't write about politics - you should've left it out.
3) I was really only reading it to find out about D's reaction and thoughts to E, but we got huge amounts of info where D was in town, D was talking to his horse, D was yabbering with his valet. Snore.
4) Darcy comes across as a vain idiot when I think he was PERCEIVED to be so. In fact I think D is meant to be a kinder, warmer person than Austen appears to make him, as evidenced by the way he treats Georgiana, his servants, his friends. Austen is good like that, she's subtle. You have to peel back layers. This is why it's worth reconsidering Darcy or Mrs Bennett. So, his nasty condescending thoughts in this book by Pam don't ring true.
5) Really, this is only book ONE. God help me I'd never have started it if I'd know I had to wade through even more trite shite. Pam, you had plenty of room to tie this up. Austen did it; the fact you couldn't do it proves you're full of wind.
Don't read this.
May 7, 2015
WARNING: If you are reading this review I have assumed that you have read the original work which this book is a retelling of,Pride and Prejudice,if you have not this review contains spoilers.
Being inside Darcy's head is dream come true for Pride and Prejudice fans. The author captures the spirit of Darcy's thoughts perfectly and stays true to all the original characters of the novel. Which is a must for me in P&P fan fiction. Being inside Darcy's head is wonderful. You get a up close and personal look into his thoughts on everything from his parents,his estate,his friendship with Bingley,his sister,and see how he feels about every meeting with Elizabeth. My favorite part of being in his head was watching him sort out his very confusing feelings for Elizabeth. Seeing Elizabeth throw Darcy's eyes made me fall in love with him all over again. Watching his loving gentle protective care over his sister is so sweet. You can tell they both love each other very much.
You get to see Darcy in less formal settings and it really opens up his character which I loved. You see a whole new side of both Darcy and Bingley as they can be more free in conversation with each other when it is just them. You also get to see how Darcy and Bingley became friends which was something I always wanted more information on. Elizabeth's wit is in full view and the author's added conversation is what I imagine Elizabeth would say. As always I loved seeing Mr. Collins make a fool out of himself at the Bingley's Ball. I have always thought it must have been hard for Darcy to trick Bingley to not got back to Hertfordshire and Aidan's portrayal of Darcy's inner struggle was spot on.
The secondary character's Aidan has added are great and I think Jane herself would have loved them.One of my favorite new character's was Fletcher, Darcy's valet. I loved his humor and match making. Darcy's school friend Dyfed Brougham is a favorite new character along with Fletcher. His wit and humor won me over in a few paragraphs. I hope to see more of both of them in books 2 and 3
The author clearly did her research and has added gossip,conversation,and famous people from the Society of the time. I love those little touches. To me it makes the all the difference in a historical romance and brings the time period to life. This is my second JA fan fiction I have read from Darcy's PoV and even though I loved the other,I love this one more as it gives me more scenes and insights not in the original novel. This looks to became a favorite with me and I highly recommend it to all P&P fans.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Content Rating: PG
Heat Rating: Clean
Being inside Darcy's head is dream come true for Pride and Prejudice fans. The author captures the spirit of Darcy's thoughts perfectly and stays true to all the original characters of the novel. Which is a must for me in P&P fan fiction. Being inside Darcy's head is wonderful. You get a up close and personal look into his thoughts on everything from his parents,his estate,his friendship with Bingley,his sister,and see how he feels about every meeting with Elizabeth. My favorite part of being in his head was watching him sort out his very confusing feelings for Elizabeth. Seeing Elizabeth throw Darcy's eyes made me fall in love with him all over again. Watching his loving gentle protective care over his sister is so sweet. You can tell they both love each other very much.
You get to see Darcy in less formal settings and it really opens up his character which I loved. You see a whole new side of both Darcy and Bingley as they can be more free in conversation with each other when it is just them. You also get to see how Darcy and Bingley became friends which was something I always wanted more information on. Elizabeth's wit is in full view and the author's added conversation is what I imagine Elizabeth would say. As always I loved seeing Mr. Collins make a fool out of himself at the Bingley's Ball. I have always thought it must have been hard for Darcy to trick Bingley to not got back to Hertfordshire and Aidan's portrayal of Darcy's inner struggle was spot on.
The secondary character's Aidan has added are great and I think Jane herself would have loved them.One of my favorite new character's was Fletcher, Darcy's valet. I loved his humor and match making. Darcy's school friend Dyfed Brougham is a favorite new character along with Fletcher. His wit and humor won me over in a few paragraphs. I hope to see more of both of them in books 2 and 3
The author clearly did her research and has added gossip,conversation,and famous people from the Society of the time. I love those little touches. To me it makes the all the difference in a historical romance and brings the time period to life. This is my second JA fan fiction I have read from Darcy's PoV and even though I loved the other,I love this one more as it gives me more scenes and insights not in the original novel. This looks to became a favorite with me and I highly recommend it to all P&P fans.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Content Rating: PG
Heat Rating: Clean
February 26, 2008
How ungrateful I must seem! This book was a Valentine's Day gift from my husband, intended to delight a complete Austenophile like me. And I was indeed enchanted with the first few chapters, for they tell the story of Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy from the gentleman's point of view. Part of the great charm of Pride & Prejudice lies in the mystery surrounding Mr. Darcy. What are we to think of this quintessentially stiff-upper-lipped toff when he inexplicably snubs the sparkling Miss Bennett, only to later plead for her hand in marriage?
I wasn't bothered by the lack of mystery in An Assembly Such as This. I thought that the story was remarkably fresh, despite having read P & P multiple times. And I was impressed by Pamela Aidan's writing style, as it had just the right Regency-era tone without a touch of self-consciousness. So why did I award this story just three stars, even though I was fully prepared to love it? Just this--it suffers from an excess of detail. I don't care to read about Mr. Darcy's every movement from the moment he awakens to the moment he falls into bed eighteen hours later. So much time is spent describing Mr. Darcy's every thought and action that the story of Pride & Prejudice is stretched into a trilogy, of which An Assembly Such as This is but the first.
But for that one flaw, this story would easily have rated five stars. But don't pay too much attention to my criticism--I still plan to read the second and third books of the trilogy!
I wasn't bothered by the lack of mystery in An Assembly Such as This. I thought that the story was remarkably fresh, despite having read P & P multiple times. And I was impressed by Pamela Aidan's writing style, as it had just the right Regency-era tone without a touch of self-consciousness. So why did I award this story just three stars, even though I was fully prepared to love it? Just this--it suffers from an excess of detail. I don't care to read about Mr. Darcy's every movement from the moment he awakens to the moment he falls into bed eighteen hours later. So much time is spent describing Mr. Darcy's every thought and action that the story of Pride & Prejudice is stretched into a trilogy, of which An Assembly Such as This is but the first.
But for that one flaw, this story would easily have rated five stars. But don't pay too much attention to my criticism--I still plan to read the second and third books of the trilogy!
December 13, 2021
I’m enjoying rereading this with my sister, who’s reading the series for the first time. We are really enjoying reading together by phone (when time allows) and sharing via text the words we run into that we need to look up in the dictionary hehe.
It wasn’t til we were about 1/3 of the way in that I realized that she had not read the original 😱😱😱 although she knew the story, as she’s seen and loved the film. (She’s now borrowed the original and I hope she’ll read it afterward ❤️)
This time, I’m reading this along with the original and another P&P retelling (Longbourn). Although it’s fantastic and, with many embellishments, begins with the original story, even lifting many lines of speech directly from it, I’m finding that I’m loving the original SO much this time that this one pales in comparison (although if Longbourn continues as it’s begun, I have a feeling that’ll be a five-star read).
If you’ve ever wanted a more in-depth reading of Pride and Prejudice, from Mr. Darcy’s POV, give this series a try. Although no one could match Austen’s writing, Aidan does her best to stay true to the original, making this series definitely worth a read. One thing about this I particularly like is getting to know Georgiana, Darcy’s sister, and some of the Pemberley servants, including Darcy’s valet, better. An audio version exists for this on Audible only, but as it was three books and a reread for me, I decided to skip those, so I can’t comment on the audio. However, usually titles produced by Audible tend to be good.
It wasn’t til we were about 1/3 of the way in that I realized that she had not read the original 😱😱😱 although she knew the story, as she’s seen and loved the film. (She’s now borrowed the original and I hope she’ll read it afterward ❤️)
This time, I’m reading this along with the original and another P&P retelling (Longbourn). Although it’s fantastic and, with many embellishments, begins with the original story, even lifting many lines of speech directly from it, I’m finding that I’m loving the original SO much this time that this one pales in comparison (although if Longbourn continues as it’s begun, I have a feeling that’ll be a five-star read).
If you’ve ever wanted a more in-depth reading of Pride and Prejudice, from Mr. Darcy’s POV, give this series a try. Although no one could match Austen’s writing, Aidan does her best to stay true to the original, making this series definitely worth a read. One thing about this I particularly like is getting to know Georgiana, Darcy’s sister, and some of the Pemberley servants, including Darcy’s valet, better. An audio version exists for this on Audible only, but as it was three books and a reread for me, I decided to skip those, so I can’t comment on the audio. However, usually titles produced by Audible tend to be good.
December 23, 2019
Not much I can add that this review does not perfectly sum up. But I shall try.
Pamela Aidan's Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman series has come up repeatedly in my exploration of Jane Austen spin-offs and I'd even argue has become a 'classic' in its own, niche sense. Perhaps this led me to have too high of expectations.
This is really just...okay fanfiction.
It recounts P&P from Darcy's POV and portrays him as a rather...wet blanket. When not obsessing over Elizabeth Bennett, he gushes over books or his high spirited horse or gives long lectures to his friends about proper decorum. For fun he sits in the corner and broods about his sister and the pernicious Wickham. It is a weird combination of middle school girl and curmudgeonly old man.
When not reliving the actual scenes from P&P, An Assembly Such as This tries to go on a Georgette Heyer tangent with characters using Regency slang at truly odd times and Darcy rubbing elbows with the greats of his day. Including a really, truly, awful rendition of Mr. Brummell.
Mah poor boy.
In the end I'd say the only truly redeeming element of this story is Darcy's valet, Fletcher, who provides a welcome, amusing contrast to the brooding Darcy. But as he feels like the only truly fleshed out character in the entire book, he more highlights the story's defects than redeems it.
Pamela Aidan's Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman series has come up repeatedly in my exploration of Jane Austen spin-offs and I'd even argue has become a 'classic' in its own, niche sense. Perhaps this led me to have too high of expectations.
This is really just...okay fanfiction.
It recounts P&P from Darcy's POV and portrays him as a rather...wet blanket. When not obsessing over Elizabeth Bennett, he gushes over books or his high spirited horse or gives long lectures to his friends about proper decorum. For fun he sits in the corner and broods about his sister and the pernicious Wickham. It is a weird combination of middle school girl and curmudgeonly old man.
When not reliving the actual scenes from P&P, An Assembly Such as This tries to go on a Georgette Heyer tangent with characters using Regency slang at truly odd times and Darcy rubbing elbows with the greats of his day. Including a really, truly, awful rendition of Mr. Brummell.
Mah poor boy.
In the end I'd say the only truly redeeming element of this story is Darcy's valet, Fletcher, who provides a welcome, amusing contrast to the brooding Darcy. But as he feels like the only truly fleshed out character in the entire book, he more highlights the story's defects than redeems it.
June 26, 2008
This is a retelling of the story of Pride and Prejudice written from the point of view of Darcy. It is broken up into three novels instead of the original one and I felt like it was a bit stretched up and filled with "empty calories".
I think I picked this book up for same reason that most people do - because we love Jane Austen and there just isn't enough of it so we hope we can find another entrance into the regency period that will be as good. Unfortunately this wasn't. It comes across as a book so obviously written by a modern author trying to sound period and it is a bit awkward. The language comes across a bit clunky and forced.
Even more than the language my real reason for not really liking this book was that I found I preferred for Mr. Darcy to remain a bit of a mystery. Part of the genius of Austen that I didn't realize until reading this book is that Austen doesn't really go into great detail in devoloping his character. By the end we know that he is kind and generous and a gentleman and that he loves Elizabeth, but not much more about his likes and dislikes and relationships and the result is that the reader gets to fill in the rest and everyone (at least every female reader) ends up with their own picture of the ideal man which is why we all love Mr. Darcy. I really disagreed in many instances with the author's portrayal and felt like she had put herself in a no-win situation.
I think I picked this book up for same reason that most people do - because we love Jane Austen and there just isn't enough of it so we hope we can find another entrance into the regency period that will be as good. Unfortunately this wasn't. It comes across as a book so obviously written by a modern author trying to sound period and it is a bit awkward. The language comes across a bit clunky and forced.
Even more than the language my real reason for not really liking this book was that I found I preferred for Mr. Darcy to remain a bit of a mystery. Part of the genius of Austen that I didn't realize until reading this book is that Austen doesn't really go into great detail in devoloping his character. By the end we know that he is kind and generous and a gentleman and that he loves Elizabeth, but not much more about his likes and dislikes and relationships and the result is that the reader gets to fill in the rest and everyone (at least every female reader) ends up with their own picture of the ideal man which is why we all love Mr. Darcy. I really disagreed in many instances with the author's portrayal and felt like she had put herself in a no-win situation.
July 24, 2020
Reseña en el wrap up del canal https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dreRM...
La verdad es que me ha gustado más de lo que me esperaba, claro está que es un libro para fans de orgullo y prejuicio ya que es la versión de Darcy. El libro me ha mantenido enganchada y he frikeado mucho aunque bien es verdad que había partes que se me hacían muy largas.
La verdad es que me ha gustado hasta el punto de que me da pena no tenerlos en físico.
La verdad es que me ha gustado más de lo que me esperaba, claro está que es un libro para fans de orgullo y prejuicio ya que es la versión de Darcy. El libro me ha mantenido enganchada y he frikeado mucho aunque bien es verdad que había partes que se me hacían muy largas.
La verdad es que me ha gustado hasta el punto de que me da pena no tenerlos en físico.
August 23, 2021
I purchased the paperback copy from Amazon but they don't denote that date so I am only guessing at the dates I read it and the sequels. (I used the date I "shelved" this book as my guide.)
8/21/2021: I am now rereading this trilogy in order to post a review. 218 pages (although it is listed at 255 pages) of small font size so I may start and stop to rest my eyes.
I have read other stories which give us a variation of P&P from Darcy's POV. However this was the first one for me. Of course we go in knowing the story so there are no surprises. However we read Darcy's thoughts and early on he realizes that not only has Elizabeth overheard his insult but also she is playing "tit-for-tat". He rehearses speech after speech in which he will apologize but somehow can never find the opportunity or becomes tongue-tied.
He does realize that Bingley plans to offer for Miss Bennet and "as his friend and protector" comes up with a plan to redirect Bingley's attentions. It is Darcy who then recruits Caroline to help in this plan. He is even the one who has her write that letter telling Jane that the Bingleys are off to London and will probably not be back.
Near the end of this first book we have some amusing scenes in which Darcy's valet (who seems to realize Darcy's feelings towards Elizabeth) creates a cravat design which Beau Brummel spies at a social gathering and withdraws his own creation title as "Best", bowing in defeat to the valet's artistry. Darcy is not happy to have been cast into public scrutiny here.
Plus at the end we read Darcy's musing about his own motivations for separating Bingley from Miss Bennet...as friends, if Bingley offers for Jane it would place Darcy in Elizabeth's company often and he is determined to forget her.
Note: this author seems to think that the plural of Darcy is Darcy's instead of Darcys...and with other proper names also.
8/21/2021: I am now rereading this trilogy in order to post a review. 218 pages (although it is listed at 255 pages) of small font size so I may start and stop to rest my eyes.
I have read other stories which give us a variation of P&P from Darcy's POV. However this was the first one for me. Of course we go in knowing the story so there are no surprises. However we read Darcy's thoughts and early on he realizes that not only has Elizabeth overheard his insult but also she is playing "tit-for-tat". He rehearses speech after speech in which he will apologize but somehow can never find the opportunity or becomes tongue-tied.
He does realize that Bingley plans to offer for Miss Bennet and "as his friend and protector" comes up with a plan to redirect Bingley's attentions. It is Darcy who then recruits Caroline to help in this plan. He is even the one who has her write that letter telling Jane that the Bingleys are off to London and will probably not be back.
Near the end of this first book we have some amusing scenes in which Darcy's valet (who seems to realize Darcy's feelings towards Elizabeth) creates a cravat design which Beau Brummel spies at a social gathering and withdraws his own creation title as "Best", bowing in defeat to the valet's artistry. Darcy is not happy to have been cast into public scrutiny here.
Plus at the end we read Darcy's musing about his own motivations for separating Bingley from Miss Bennet...as friends, if Bingley offers for Jane it would place Darcy in Elizabeth's company often and he is determined to forget her.
Note: this author seems to think that the plural of Darcy is Darcy's instead of Darcys...and with other proper names also.
April 12, 2023
*4.5 stars. I’ve been looking for a close to perfect Darcy perspective P&P retelling and I can finally say I’ve found it! This was so enjoyable, the angst and humanity the author brings to Darcy is perfect. He’s so conflicted, both for himself and for Bingley. I do wish it hadn’t ended on such a random point and with so much to the author’s discretion at the end but that is all I can complain about. Delightful!
March 14, 2022
“When we generalize and judge people quickly without taking ample time, we’ve chosen a shortcut. It’s superficial of us, and a lack of wisdom.” —Assegid Habtewold, The 9 Cardinal Building Blocks: For continued success in leadership
>>Rating: Clean, maybe a bit of language depending on who was talking. There were descriptions of London society that were rather shocking and probably tame when compared to historical accounts.
>>Angst Level: low to none.
>>Timeline: following the P&P story through Darcy’s POV: Book 1 of 3:
>>Trope: this was not the douche Darcy; this was the Haute ton, Darcy. His very essence was haute couture, perfect manners, impeccable persona, and always observing the social graces… yadda, yadda.
There were no surprises to the storyline. It was P&P through Darcy’s eyes. We follow Austen’s story and you know what is happening at every turn. The new twists are what Darcy is thinking or how his thoughts propel the story. Even if someone were to read this who has not read the source material, they would be able to follow it. For those who know P&P, just sit back and relax and listen to Darcy’s thoughts and desires.
This was such an unusual story in that we are in Darcy’s head the whole time. From the moment he stepped out of the coach when he first arrived at Netherfield until he and Bingley left for London after the Netherfield Ball, we have his every thought. The story ended just at Christmas and would continue in book 2 in this series.
“When they judge you, yawn.
When they misunderstand you, smile.
When they underestimate you, laugh.
When they condemn you, ignore.
When they envy you, rejoice.
When they oppose you, prevail.”
–Matshona Dhliwayo
The language was exquisite. Darcy was perfect as his mind evaluated his stay in Hertfordshire and he considered the denizens within his purview. He valiantly fought his inclinations toward a pair of sparkling eyes with an intelligent wit that matched his own in every encounter. He didn’t know what to do or how to counter his feeling for this socially inferior miss who was considered low-gentry by most standards. Her family was a nightmare… starting with an indolent father, which explained their low income. The fortune-hunting mother was loud and vulgar as she searched for matches for her surfeit of daughters. The socially inept sisters [except Miss Bennet], and their connections to trade made any considerations of her… impossible. It would be social suicide to even consider such a match.
“Open your mind to the world and the many different ways that can be found in it, before making hasty judgments of others. After all, the very same thing that you judge from where you are—may very well be something totally different in meaning on the other side of the world. The problem with making hasty judgments is that it will emphasize your ignorance at the end of the day.” –C. JoyBell C.
I didn’t see it until Darcy arrived back in London. The juxtaposition between the society at Meryton and London was shocking. It was a stark reality as I observed society through Darcy’s POV. I don’t think it dawned on Darcy the hypocrisy of his judging Meryton when the debauchery of London would shock the socks off of any decent person. And yet, he looked down on Meryton. It really struck me that his attitude was so skewed. He even described [or tried to justify] the ton due to their being royal, peer, wealthy, entitled… yadda, yadda. It hurt my heart to see him justify their behavior even though he disdained said behavior and tried to avoid it. I am on to the next book.
Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman Series:
Book 1: An Assembly Such as This
Book 2: Duty and Desire
Book 3: These Three Remain
>>Rating: Clean, maybe a bit of language depending on who was talking. There were descriptions of London society that were rather shocking and probably tame when compared to historical accounts.
>>Angst Level: low to none.
>>Timeline: following the P&P story through Darcy’s POV: Book 1 of 3:
>>Trope: this was not the douche Darcy; this was the Haute ton, Darcy. His very essence was haute couture, perfect manners, impeccable persona, and always observing the social graces… yadda, yadda.
There were no surprises to the storyline. It was P&P through Darcy’s eyes. We follow Austen’s story and you know what is happening at every turn. The new twists are what Darcy is thinking or how his thoughts propel the story. Even if someone were to read this who has not read the source material, they would be able to follow it. For those who know P&P, just sit back and relax and listen to Darcy’s thoughts and desires.
This was such an unusual story in that we are in Darcy’s head the whole time. From the moment he stepped out of the coach when he first arrived at Netherfield until he and Bingley left for London after the Netherfield Ball, we have his every thought. The story ended just at Christmas and would continue in book 2 in this series.
“When they judge you, yawn.
When they misunderstand you, smile.
When they underestimate you, laugh.
When they condemn you, ignore.
When they envy you, rejoice.
When they oppose you, prevail.”
–Matshona Dhliwayo
The language was exquisite. Darcy was perfect as his mind evaluated his stay in Hertfordshire and he considered the denizens within his purview. He valiantly fought his inclinations toward a pair of sparkling eyes with an intelligent wit that matched his own in every encounter. He didn’t know what to do or how to counter his feeling for this socially inferior miss who was considered low-gentry by most standards. Her family was a nightmare… starting with an indolent father, which explained their low income. The fortune-hunting mother was loud and vulgar as she searched for matches for her surfeit of daughters. The socially inept sisters [except Miss Bennet], and their connections to trade made any considerations of her… impossible. It would be social suicide to even consider such a match.
“Open your mind to the world and the many different ways that can be found in it, before making hasty judgments of others. After all, the very same thing that you judge from where you are—may very well be something totally different in meaning on the other side of the world. The problem with making hasty judgments is that it will emphasize your ignorance at the end of the day.” –C. JoyBell C.
I didn’t see it until Darcy arrived back in London. The juxtaposition between the society at Meryton and London was shocking. It was a stark reality as I observed society through Darcy’s POV. I don’t think it dawned on Darcy the hypocrisy of his judging Meryton when the debauchery of London would shock the socks off of any decent person. And yet, he looked down on Meryton. It really struck me that his attitude was so skewed. He even described [or tried to justify] the ton due to their being royal, peer, wealthy, entitled… yadda, yadda. It hurt my heart to see him justify their behavior even though he disdained said behavior and tried to avoid it. I am on to the next book.
Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman Series:
Book 1: An Assembly Such as This
Book 2: Duty and Desire
Book 3: These Three Remain
January 23, 2010
This is the first of a trilogy by Pamela Aidan. I read them all quickly and loved them so much 2 months later I decided to read them again slowly as I missed the characters so much. I am a Pride and Prejudice junkie. I have read a number of the P&P sequels. This is the only one worthy of my time.
Pamela Aidan produced a look into Mr. Darcy's heart and mind concerning all the events of the Austen story. No one can write like Jane Austen but Pamela Aidan did a good job of creating a Mr. Darcy in language, manner, and character that was very satisfying to me. The second book has some fun intrigue as Darcy spends a week in an ancient castle, with some old classmates, after he decides he must look for a wife in the ranks of society in order to forget Elizabeth. The last book gives more satisfying details into the stories conclusion. Aidan intruduces some new characters and gives us deeper insight into the Austen personalities. I learned a few things from Mr. Darcy in his self examination. The books portrayed a Darcy that Jane Austen would have approved--with values and good character.
Pamela Aidan produced a look into Mr. Darcy's heart and mind concerning all the events of the Austen story. No one can write like Jane Austen but Pamela Aidan did a good job of creating a Mr. Darcy in language, manner, and character that was very satisfying to me. The second book has some fun intrigue as Darcy spends a week in an ancient castle, with some old classmates, after he decides he must look for a wife in the ranks of society in order to forget Elizabeth. The last book gives more satisfying details into the stories conclusion. Aidan intruduces some new characters and gives us deeper insight into the Austen personalities. I learned a few things from Mr. Darcy in his self examination. The books portrayed a Darcy that Jane Austen would have approved--with values and good character.
March 9, 2018
This is book one of three retelling P&P from Darcy's perspective. It begins with the arrival at the Meryton Assembly and ends with Darcy in London after separating Bingley and Jane. Overall I found the pacing to be glacial, the details to be unnecessary and the characters insipid.
I can't figure out this Darcy; does he have Asperger's? In some situations he seems perfectly able to have normal social intercourse and in others acts stupidly awkward. Also I cannot determine his relationship with his valet. The valet is annoying and overbearing.
There is nothing specifically objectionable about the writing until you encounter a snippet of JA's brilliant prose and then the remainder of the book seems to dim. I doubt I will read the other two un the series unless they are free
I can't figure out this Darcy; does he have Asperger's? In some situations he seems perfectly able to have normal social intercourse and in others acts stupidly awkward. Also I cannot determine his relationship with his valet. The valet is annoying and overbearing.
There is nothing specifically objectionable about the writing until you encounter a snippet of JA's brilliant prose and then the remainder of the book seems to dim. I doubt I will read the other two un the series unless they are free
September 25, 2009
I read this because a friend picked it up for me at a thrift store and because I am so obsessive-compulsive that I feel a need to read through to the end of any book that I begin. (This is the first of three volumes, but my compulsiveness does not, fortunately, require me to read the rest.) This is not a bad book, but it is a book decidedly not to my taste and unlikely to be to the taste of about half of the people who pick it up.
This book aspires to fill in the blanks of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice by telling the story from Mr. Darcy's point of view. If your only contact with Jane Austen's classic is the BBC/Masterpiece Theatre version with Colin Firth, this book may well suit your purposes. Much of the inspiration for the character of Darcy comes from the non-Austen scenes in the dramatization (Darcy fencing, Darcy riding a fiery horse, Darcy luxuriating in a bathtub . . . ). [Author: Pamela Aidan] has built on these images and provides more detail than Austen ever thought necessary to illustrate the opulance of Darcy's fortune and the restraint of his taste. In this manner, Aidan takes us to the point where Mr. Darcy has taken his friend away from Netherfield and the attractions of the Bennett sisters and been followed by Bingley's sisters.
Lovers of Austen's writing will be cheered in the early chapters to come across much dialogue lifted verbatim from the original, but as the book progresses and Darcy leaves Netherfield for London, these become less common. Once Aidan leaves Austen's text behind entirely, one is allowed to imagine that one is merely reading about a character who happens to share his name with Austen's creation. Aidan's Darcy is much more prone to sighing and catching his breath than Austen's Darcy (he is almost asthmatic in his inability to breathe properly), and, for all the time spent with his man of business, does not seem to have a lot of business to conduct. Part of the problem with comparing Aidan's Darcy with Austen's, of course, is that all readers of Austen will imagine a Darcy to suit their tastes, so providing a hero straight out of a Regency novel (in the modern sense of "Regency novel") is unlikely to suit anyone who has read Austen.
Historically, Aidan is at pains to fit in as many physical details as possible, and to drop the maximum number of infamous names. A scene with Beau Brummel is apparently cooked up just so that Aidan can spend several pages describing how Mr. Darcy's valet prepared for his evening engagements and then list all of the other society scandals who show up at the gathering. A number of Aidan's historical details seem off-key, even if not absolutely wrong or impossible. A description of Darcy's shock at the sight of a waltz being danced at a society ball seems to be included in order to let readers know that waltzes were new in the 1810s, but waltzes were probably not yet being danced in England except on the stage and perhaps by people below the level of polite society in 1813 (or earlier as 1813 was merely P&P's publication date). On the other hand, they were danced on the Continent so should not be so utterly shocking to a well-traveled man such as Darcy. Aidan's ladies began swooning all over the dance floor in shock, but ladies did not start swooning en masse until after the waist-lines became more constricted than they were in Austen's day (and then mainly in literature). Darcy's and Georgiana's charitable gifts seem to be limited to giving to charitable societies, but for landed proprietors of the day, charity in one's own parish was probably much more important (see Emma for examples of local charity). Although someone as wealthy as Darcy might have actively managed investments in London warehouses (which sounds a lot like engaging in trade to me), it is more likely that his income came from land and from investments in stocks and securities. Most off-key is her presentation of Darcy as someone who is not actively seeking a wife but waiting for THE ONE to appear. Given Darcy's age (late 20s) and his responsibility for Georgiana's presentation in society, the practical need for a wife more likely would have caused him to take responsibility for hunting out a socially suitable (and lovable) bride. (Aidan seems to make the mistake of many in assuming that all marriages of the past were either society-defying love-matches or else craven exercises in loveless practicality.)
I would recommend this to someone who enjoyed reading historical romances, but not to a fan of the writing of Jane Austen.
This book aspires to fill in the blanks of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice by telling the story from Mr. Darcy's point of view. If your only contact with Jane Austen's classic is the BBC/Masterpiece Theatre version with Colin Firth, this book may well suit your purposes. Much of the inspiration for the character of Darcy comes from the non-Austen scenes in the dramatization (Darcy fencing, Darcy riding a fiery horse, Darcy luxuriating in a bathtub . . . ). [Author: Pamela Aidan] has built on these images and provides more detail than Austen ever thought necessary to illustrate the opulance of Darcy's fortune and the restraint of his taste. In this manner, Aidan takes us to the point where Mr. Darcy has taken his friend away from Netherfield and the attractions of the Bennett sisters and been followed by Bingley's sisters.
Lovers of Austen's writing will be cheered in the early chapters to come across much dialogue lifted verbatim from the original, but as the book progresses and Darcy leaves Netherfield for London, these become less common. Once Aidan leaves Austen's text behind entirely, one is allowed to imagine that one is merely reading about a character who happens to share his name with Austen's creation. Aidan's Darcy is much more prone to sighing and catching his breath than Austen's Darcy (he is almost asthmatic in his inability to breathe properly), and, for all the time spent with his man of business, does not seem to have a lot of business to conduct. Part of the problem with comparing Aidan's Darcy with Austen's, of course, is that all readers of Austen will imagine a Darcy to suit their tastes, so providing a hero straight out of a Regency novel (in the modern sense of "Regency novel") is unlikely to suit anyone who has read Austen.
Historically, Aidan is at pains to fit in as many physical details as possible, and to drop the maximum number of infamous names. A scene with Beau Brummel is apparently cooked up just so that Aidan can spend several pages describing how Mr. Darcy's valet prepared for his evening engagements and then list all of the other society scandals who show up at the gathering. A number of Aidan's historical details seem off-key, even if not absolutely wrong or impossible. A description of Darcy's shock at the sight of a waltz being danced at a society ball seems to be included in order to let readers know that waltzes were new in the 1810s, but waltzes were probably not yet being danced in England except on the stage and perhaps by people below the level of polite society in 1813 (or earlier as 1813 was merely P&P's publication date). On the other hand, they were danced on the Continent so should not be so utterly shocking to a well-traveled man such as Darcy. Aidan's ladies began swooning all over the dance floor in shock, but ladies did not start swooning en masse until after the waist-lines became more constricted than they were in Austen's day (and then mainly in literature). Darcy's and Georgiana's charitable gifts seem to be limited to giving to charitable societies, but for landed proprietors of the day, charity in one's own parish was probably much more important (see Emma for examples of local charity). Although someone as wealthy as Darcy might have actively managed investments in London warehouses (which sounds a lot like engaging in trade to me), it is more likely that his income came from land and from investments in stocks and securities. Most off-key is her presentation of Darcy as someone who is not actively seeking a wife but waiting for THE ONE to appear. Given Darcy's age (late 20s) and his responsibility for Georgiana's presentation in society, the practical need for a wife more likely would have caused him to take responsibility for hunting out a socially suitable (and lovable) bride. (Aidan seems to make the mistake of many in assuming that all marriages of the past were either society-defying love-matches or else craven exercises in loveless practicality.)
I would recommend this to someone who enjoyed reading historical romances, but not to a fan of the writing of Jane Austen.
February 7, 2024
This solid book is basically the Darcy side of the canon story, from Hertfordshire to when the gentlemen removed to London.
The trouble with writing the Darcy point of view is deciding whether to make him self-aware. Does he know that he was rude and insulting at the assembly? Does he realize that Elizabeth is annoyed with him on other occasions? Does he know that he has things to apologize for? If not, it is a problem because Our Dear Boy looks clueless and not too smart, fumbling his way through social occasions he always fails to understand, as happily conceited and unthinking as Mr. Collins. If yes, it is a problem because how the heck was he still blindsided at Hunsford? How on earth does a smart guy like you go and propose to somebody who has been long known to dislike you, and arrogantly expect a favourable answer?
Here, Aidan went the self-aware route. Darcy knows Elizabeth is owed an apology and recognizes when she's needling him, even if he may not always understand why she is put out. But we are not at Hunsford yet, so I am not sure how she will work everything out.
The writing style is sometimes amusing, often rather serious, and a bit wordy at times - Austen could tell the story in a single book but Aidan needs three. IIRC there was not a single bath described in Austen's P&P but we hear all about what Darcy thought while being shaved and bathed. He thinks about love poetry in the middle of choosing his clothing with his valet. But alas, it was not effective in driving away love.
In London, Darcy keeps himself busy encountering some real historical persons and babysitting Bingley. I liked the original characters who include Darcy's valet and a stern secretary who have minds of their own, as well as Lord Dyfed Brougham who seems like a charming rattle but may have some hidden side. These entertaining characters seemed familiar somehow and I think I may have read this story a very long time ago, back when it was a WIP on an online forum. If not, perhaps Dy is just a bit reminiscent of some Heyer heroes.
At the end of the story there are some reading club instructions that I skipped. How do authors decide that their book is likely to be a reading club selection, needing helpful hints in the end? Or do they include the notes in the hopes that the book will be chosen for book clubs because of them? Goodreads is as close as I've ever got to a reading club, and I think I will continue to read books without instructions. If I bought and read a book, I reserve the right to think whatever I please about it, thank you very much.
Steam level: Nah.
The trouble with writing the Darcy point of view is deciding whether to make him self-aware. Does he know that he was rude and insulting at the assembly? Does he realize that Elizabeth is annoyed with him on other occasions? Does he know that he has things to apologize for? If not, it is a problem because Our Dear Boy looks clueless and not too smart, fumbling his way through social occasions he always fails to understand, as happily conceited and unthinking as Mr. Collins. If yes, it is a problem because how the heck was he still blindsided at Hunsford? How on earth does a smart guy like you go and propose to somebody who has been long known to dislike you, and arrogantly expect a favourable answer?
Here, Aidan went the self-aware route. Darcy knows Elizabeth is owed an apology and recognizes when she's needling him, even if he may not always understand why she is put out. But we are not at Hunsford yet, so I am not sure how she will work everything out.
The writing style is sometimes amusing, often rather serious, and a bit wordy at times - Austen could tell the story in a single book but Aidan needs three. IIRC there was not a single bath described in Austen's P&P but we hear all about what Darcy thought while being shaved and bathed. He thinks about love poetry in the middle of choosing his clothing with his valet. But alas, it was not effective in driving away love.
In London, Darcy keeps himself busy encountering some real historical persons and babysitting Bingley. I liked the original characters who include Darcy's valet and a stern secretary who have minds of their own, as well as Lord Dyfed Brougham who seems like a charming rattle but may have some hidden side. These entertaining characters seemed familiar somehow and I think I may have read this story a very long time ago, back when it was a WIP on an online forum. If not, perhaps Dy is just a bit reminiscent of some Heyer heroes.
At the end of the story there are some reading club instructions that I skipped. How do authors decide that their book is likely to be a reading club selection, needing helpful hints in the end? Or do they include the notes in the hopes that the book will be chosen for book clubs because of them? Goodreads is as close as I've ever got to a reading club, and I think I will continue to read books without instructions. If I bought and read a book, I reserve the right to think whatever I please about it, thank you very much.
Steam level: Nah.
March 27, 2012
In my opinion, Katharine's review was way better written than the book and a lot more entertaining.
I THOROUGHLY agree with every single word Katharine said. It’s like Aiden was trying to be (not mimic, like she actually wanted to BE) Jane Austen but added her own flair of bad writing. I think that was a total disgrace of the beloved character Jane Austen wove so deeply into our hearts and something I could have written when I was 11.
Let me begin with less is more. There were way too many details about absolutely nothing, and it seemed to me that she was just trying to fill pages by yapping on about bow ties, a horse (yes, an actual horse with a human personality) and that book Mr. Darcy was reading! Every page in Pride and Prejudice served a purpose in the general storyline of the book, but this book… half of it was utterly pointless. You’re right, if she took out the unnecessary fluff, she could condense the series to one very small, badly written book.
In addition to all those stupid little details, she also added stupid little characters too. What was the deal with Fletcher by the way? She (excuse me, he…Half the time I couldn’t tell if he was a man or a woman) really didn’t make his character clear, and he totally served NO purpose in the book.
Don’t even get me started on the wording. I hate it when authors use big words and have no idea what they mean. I’m an avid reader, and all those words certainly didn’t make reading her book more enjoyable. And her sloppy sentence structure…well lets just leave it at that.
Does anyone have any suggestions for a better Darcy novel??
I THOROUGHLY agree with every single word Katharine said. It’s like Aiden was trying to be (not mimic, like she actually wanted to BE) Jane Austen but added her own flair of bad writing. I think that was a total disgrace of the beloved character Jane Austen wove so deeply into our hearts and something I could have written when I was 11.
Let me begin with less is more. There were way too many details about absolutely nothing, and it seemed to me that she was just trying to fill pages by yapping on about bow ties, a horse (yes, an actual horse with a human personality) and that book Mr. Darcy was reading! Every page in Pride and Prejudice served a purpose in the general storyline of the book, but this book… half of it was utterly pointless. You’re right, if she took out the unnecessary fluff, she could condense the series to one very small, badly written book.
In addition to all those stupid little details, she also added stupid little characters too. What was the deal with Fletcher by the way? She (excuse me, he…Half the time I couldn’t tell if he was a man or a woman) really didn’t make his character clear, and he totally served NO purpose in the book.
Don’t even get me started on the wording. I hate it when authors use big words and have no idea what they mean. I’m an avid reader, and all those words certainly didn’t make reading her book more enjoyable. And her sloppy sentence structure…well lets just leave it at that.
Does anyone have any suggestions for a better Darcy novel??
December 6, 2022
2022 review
I still think Darcy's absolute soppiness aside, this is enjoyable and has merit, but I find that it's not as close to a Pride and Prejudice from Darcy's POV as I once thought. The first half, maybe, but the second half definitely goes off the rails and leaves you wondering what book you're supposed to be reading. I also don't believe Darcy would ever have been THAT enamored of Elizabeth that quickly.
Charles continues to be aces.
2013 review
3.5 stars.
I adored more on the friendship with Charles. I was smiling every time he showed up.
One of my bigger issues was the fact that Darcy is, um, well...soppy. Not how I saw him in my head, esp. near the very beginning of the story. It is very much the author's interpretation. One person's view of Darcy. And that's fine, it just didn't stop me from snickering loudly when it got ridiculous.
But slight mushiness aside, I really liked reading it and definitely will be checking out the rest of this three volume novel.
Oh! And Fletcher!! I simply adored Fletcher. He is brilliant. And, I'm fairly certain, the original Darcy/Elizabeth shipper.
And, as I was reading, I found myself wondering what I would be thinking if this was the original novel and P&P was the alternate or if I'd never read P&P. I came to the conclusion that I'd be lost. Don't try to read this without having read P&P. Lord knows why you'd be interested in this in the first place if that was the case, but that's neither here nor there. Just don't do it.
I still think Darcy's absolute soppiness aside, this is enjoyable and has merit, but I find that it's not as close to a Pride and Prejudice from Darcy's POV as I once thought. The first half, maybe, but the second half definitely goes off the rails and leaves you wondering what book you're supposed to be reading. I also don't believe Darcy would ever have been THAT enamored of Elizabeth that quickly.
Charles continues to be aces.
2013 review
3.5 stars.
I adored more on the friendship with Charles. I was smiling every time he showed up.
One of my bigger issues was the fact that Darcy is, um, well...soppy. Not how I saw him in my head, esp. near the very beginning of the story. It is very much the author's interpretation. One person's view of Darcy. And that's fine, it just didn't stop me from snickering loudly when it got ridiculous.
But slight mushiness aside, I really liked reading it and definitely will be checking out the rest of this three volume novel.
Oh! And Fletcher!! I simply adored Fletcher. He is brilliant. And, I'm fairly certain, the original Darcy/Elizabeth shipper.
And, as I was reading, I found myself wondering what I would be thinking if this was the original novel and P&P was the alternate or if I'd never read P&P. I came to the conclusion that I'd be lost. Don't try to read this without having read P&P. Lord knows why you'd be interested in this in the first place if that was the case, but that's neither here nor there. Just don't do it.
February 3, 2022
Author does a wonderful job of fleshing out Mr. Darcy and he is indeed a gentleman! We are introduced to his valet, his dog, his horse, his friends and staff, but most importantly, his thoughts :
Her respect. He had wanted her respect, her friendship- an oasis of wit and grace in a desert of provincial dullness. He wanted the aliveness he felt in her presence that flowed through him like fine wine. He wanted those marvelous eyes turned upon him with something deeper than amusement or rivalry.
The style can be a bit tiresome but those who love regency (with a bit of humor) will love this trilogy. The book ends with Darcy determined to stop Bingley's interest in Jane. I might skip part 2 which is "all Darcy all the time" and go straight for part 3 which picks up the action at Rosings.
Her respect. He had wanted her respect, her friendship- an oasis of wit and grace in a desert of provincial dullness. He wanted the aliveness he felt in her presence that flowed through him like fine wine. He wanted those marvelous eyes turned upon him with something deeper than amusement or rivalry.
The style can be a bit tiresome but those who love regency (with a bit of humor) will love this trilogy. The book ends with Darcy determined to stop Bingley's interest in Jane. I might skip part 2 which is "all Darcy all the time" and go straight for part 3 which picks up the action at Rosings.
July 20, 2018
3.5 stars!
June 12, 2009
I tend to shy away from modern books whose authors take off where a classic author left off, in this case, Jane Austen. That sequel to "Gone with the Wind" sounded horrendous (although, admittedly, I didn't read it). This author seems like a pretty good writer. She copied the language of Jane Austen's day, although at times she seemed to be straining too hard, making it sound unnatural. Knowing "Pride and Prejudice" as well as I do, it's fun to hear the story from Darcy's point-of-view. My biggest complaint, though, is that the book was just plain boring at times. My eyes would glaze over and I would read a page or two without really reading it. I think the author must have done a lot of research before she wrote this book and felt the need to insert a lot of it into her book. Zzzzzz.....A lot of the book goes nowhere. Darcy meets with his steward and goes over his business interests which leads to...nothing. Darcy meets up with a college friend which leads to...nothing. Unfortunately, when Elizabeth Bennet isn't in the picture, Darcy's life is, well, BORING. The worst part was towards the end when Darcy and Bingley attend a soiree where Darcy tries to get Bingley's mind off of Jane Bennet. The passage wanders around from place to place at the party and it isn't interesting, it doesn't make much sense, and it's filled with cliched characters. Darcy and Bingley are led into a secret room where only "special" guests are invited, but it's never clear what they're doing there and Darcy and Bingley just leave. Then they wander into the ballroom where the host's daughter-in-law arrives in scandalous attire which causes many women to faint. But the author never explains the attire. Then Darcy bests some man in a cravat-tying contest. What is a cravat-tying contest? Never explained. And who cares? I'm not sure whether I want to read the next two books.
August 25, 2014
Although I enjoyed the beginnings of Darcy's side of the story in this book, I think it moved a bit slowly. Some chapters seemed dragged out, especially when Elizabeth wasn't present in the narrative. The scenes with them together are the most fun, since we see Austen's dialogue juxtaposed with Aiden's take on Darcy's mind. If this wasn't the story of Pride & Prejudice, I probably wouldn't have finished the series out, but I couldn't help continuing to find out what went through Darcy's mind in the rest of it. The third book absolutely makes it worth struggling through the first two.
May 9, 2018
I didn’t realize this was a series. Ahhhhh. That being said I did like it but I’m not sure that I’ll keep reading the other two. Maybe I’ll read them as my pride and prejudice retelling next year.
November 5, 2016
Estaba viendo Persiguiendo a Jane Austen y me di cuenta de que me apetecía algo del estilo, una amiga me había pasado el libro y decidí darle una oportunidad, aunque yo no soy muy de versiones de Orgullo y prejuicio y las dos que leí no me gustaron nada.
Para mi sorpresa, y tal vez porque no llevaba grandes pretensiones, Una fiesta como ésta me gustó bastante. La perspectiva de Darcy nos crea la personalidad de una figura ya con mucho recorrido, la autora le da su propio carácter, sus propios pensamientos que se encarga de encajar con todo lo que ocurre y dice en el clásico de Austen. Es una versión propia, pero como curiosidad y entretenimiento está bien. Me gusta como se encajan algunas cosas, otras a mi juicio no creo que las pensara el Darcy de Austen, pero he disfrutado con este personaje.
La lectura es más lenta que la de Orgullo y prejuicio, Darcy es más pausado y tiene una vida menos movida que la de la familia Bennet, lo interesante de la novela es la curiosidad que nos despierta conocer estos detalles. Creo que también se da una imagen de Bingley propia de la autora, pero esto no me ha molestado porque he ido con la mente abierta. Si no os gustan estas versiones o sois muy puntillosos con que se modifique lo que es la novela, no creo que libros de este tipo os puedan hacer disfrutar, pero si estáis cómodos con la idea, puede funcionar.
El estilo de la autora es más actual que el de Austen, pero para mi placer en los diálogos se mantienen las expresiones de la época y son bastante rigurosos, con lo que podemos sentir que estamos leyendo una novela histórica, no como otros libros de esta temática que no cumplen con eso.
Al principio pensaba que Pamela Aidan contaría la novela desde el punto de vista de Darcy y ya está, pero aumenta este universo, lo cual en pequeñas dosis me gusta, pero lo que me cuentan del segundo libro me echa un poco para atrás. Algunos de esos destalles y sucesos a mayores que vemos en esta primera entrega están bien y me ha gustado especialmente como le da personalidad a algunos de los empleados de Darcy, como se les da relevancia.
En cuanto al hecho de que sea una trilogía, es lo que menos me gusta. Hubiera esperado que terminase todo en un libro y no que se alargase innecesariamente, pero como lectura de novela histórica también se disfruta.
En conclusión, la primera versión que me ha gustado, que me ha entretenido y que mantiene una relación con la historia y que creo que se puede disfrutar bastante, pero hay que ir con la mente abierta ya que es una versión de Orgullo y prejuicio y no todo lo que da por supuesto la autora tiene que coincidir con la imagen que cada uno tiene de Darcy, Bingley y otros personajes. Es una opción de tantas, por mi parte, he disfrutado de poder conocer esta. Yo nunca he idealizado a Darcy ni me parece el mejor galán del mundo, porque en realidad la novela original para mí aporta muy poco sobre él, sabemos mucho más del carácter de Elizabeth y con esta lectura he tenido la oportunidad de conocer un poco mejor el posible carácter del personaje y pensar «¿Estaría pensando esto en esos momentos?»
Para mi sorpresa, y tal vez porque no llevaba grandes pretensiones, Una fiesta como ésta me gustó bastante. La perspectiva de Darcy nos crea la personalidad de una figura ya con mucho recorrido, la autora le da su propio carácter, sus propios pensamientos que se encarga de encajar con todo lo que ocurre y dice en el clásico de Austen. Es una versión propia, pero como curiosidad y entretenimiento está bien. Me gusta como se encajan algunas cosas, otras a mi juicio no creo que las pensara el Darcy de Austen, pero he disfrutado con este personaje.
La lectura es más lenta que la de Orgullo y prejuicio, Darcy es más pausado y tiene una vida menos movida que la de la familia Bennet, lo interesante de la novela es la curiosidad que nos despierta conocer estos detalles. Creo que también se da una imagen de Bingley propia de la autora, pero esto no me ha molestado porque he ido con la mente abierta. Si no os gustan estas versiones o sois muy puntillosos con que se modifique lo que es la novela, no creo que libros de este tipo os puedan hacer disfrutar, pero si estáis cómodos con la idea, puede funcionar.
El estilo de la autora es más actual que el de Austen, pero para mi placer en los diálogos se mantienen las expresiones de la época y son bastante rigurosos, con lo que podemos sentir que estamos leyendo una novela histórica, no como otros libros de esta temática que no cumplen con eso.
Al principio pensaba que Pamela Aidan contaría la novela desde el punto de vista de Darcy y ya está, pero aumenta este universo, lo cual en pequeñas dosis me gusta, pero lo que me cuentan del segundo libro me echa un poco para atrás. Algunos de esos destalles y sucesos a mayores que vemos en esta primera entrega están bien y me ha gustado especialmente como le da personalidad a algunos de los empleados de Darcy, como se les da relevancia.
En cuanto al hecho de que sea una trilogía, es lo que menos me gusta. Hubiera esperado que terminase todo en un libro y no que se alargase innecesariamente, pero como lectura de novela histórica también se disfruta.
En conclusión, la primera versión que me ha gustado, que me ha entretenido y que mantiene una relación con la historia y que creo que se puede disfrutar bastante, pero hay que ir con la mente abierta ya que es una versión de Orgullo y prejuicio y no todo lo que da por supuesto la autora tiene que coincidir con la imagen que cada uno tiene de Darcy, Bingley y otros personajes. Es una opción de tantas, por mi parte, he disfrutado de poder conocer esta. Yo nunca he idealizado a Darcy ni me parece el mejor galán del mundo, porque en realidad la novela original para mí aporta muy poco sobre él, sabemos mucho más del carácter de Elizabeth y con esta lectura he tenido la oportunidad de conocer un poco mejor el posible carácter del personaje y pensar «¿Estaría pensando esto en esos momentos?»
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June 2, 2017OMG this book is so detailed.
Like SOOO detailed. Ridiculously so.
There are PAGES devoted to Darcy's cravat.
I love reading Austen retellings. I have read some GOOD Darcy povs and some horrible Darcy povs.
As for this one, it's somewhere in the middle.
It's not imminently readable. And it's not the language or the old-timey aspect. Austen would be easier to get into. It's just boring.
Like take the events of one book:Pride and Prejudice and DRAG THEM ON into 3 books. By the end of this book we'd not even gotten to Christmas. Darcy and the Bingleys leave Netherfield and go to London. That's where we are. THAT'S WHERE WE ARE!!
I will say this is the most accurate retelling. Lots of historical details (so many!) and a timeline that matches P&P. There are things in London with Darcy going to parties and meeting historical figures (Caroline Lamb for one). Intriguing intrigues and so forth.
Darcy is kind of a douche here. We're in his head (3rd limited pov) and still his actions aren't tainted by Lizzie's prejudice and I still don't like him. And the insta-love he feels for Elizabeth I don't really like. I'm of the opinion that he likes the way she looks (Lively and witty and laughing.) and then the things she does, being smart and challenging him and caring for Jane bring about a slow burn love. Not this OMG she's so hot I have to have her!!
So I don't know. I kind of want to finish the series and I kind of don't. Would not recommend.
Like SOOO detailed. Ridiculously so.
There are PAGES devoted to Darcy's cravat.
I love reading Austen retellings. I have read some GOOD Darcy povs and some horrible Darcy povs.
As for this one, it's somewhere in the middle.
It's not imminently readable. And it's not the language or the old-timey aspect. Austen would be easier to get into. It's just boring.
Like take the events of one book:Pride and Prejudice and DRAG THEM ON into 3 books. By the end of this book we'd not even gotten to Christmas. Darcy and the Bingleys leave Netherfield and go to London. That's where we are. THAT'S WHERE WE ARE!!
I will say this is the most accurate retelling. Lots of historical details (so many!) and a timeline that matches P&P. There are things in London with Darcy going to parties and meeting historical figures (Caroline Lamb for one). Intriguing intrigues and so forth.
Darcy is kind of a douche here. We're in his head (3rd limited pov) and still his actions aren't tainted by Lizzie's prejudice and I still don't like him. And the insta-love he feels for Elizabeth I don't really like. I'm of the opinion that he likes the way she looks (Lively and witty and laughing.) and then the things she does, being smart and challenging him and caring for Jane bring about a slow burn love. Not this OMG she's so hot I have to have her!!
So I don't know. I kind of want to finish the series and I kind of don't. Would not recommend.
April 5, 2009
This 1st volume in Pamela Aidan's fresh and entertaining trilogy that tells the story of Pride and Prejudice though the eyes of Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentlemen, is enjoyable. The new characters that she creates, like Darcy's Shakespeare-quoting valet Fletcher, who is probably my favorite character of the entire trilogy, and Darcy's best friend Dy Broughm, are welcome additions. The deeper insights given to Georgiana's situation, the idea that she suffered a depression, and her character in general and her loving relationship with Darcy, as well as Darcy's deep resentment and hatred of Wickham, and his reasons for taking Bingley away from Jane are something that one would hope to find in a work like this. Take the events of the parent novel and give a spin on them that fits canon, but plays with it at the same time.
The only thing that I really disliked was that I rather thought Darcy too besotted with Elizabeth. The writing turned a little too sappy for me at times and I would have preferred less mooning over Elizabeth's fine eyes or the way that she distracts him. The only big drawback in my opinion.
Otherwise, fine incorporation of P & P dialogue, etc. Aidan stays fairly true to all the characters, imho.
The only thing that I really disliked was that I rather thought Darcy too besotted with Elizabeth. The writing turned a little too sappy for me at times and I would have preferred less mooning over Elizabeth's fine eyes or the way that she distracts him. The only big drawback in my opinion.
Otherwise, fine incorporation of P & P dialogue, etc. Aidan stays fairly true to all the characters, imho.
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