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One Thread Pulled #1
One Thread Pulled: The Dance with Mr. Darcy
When the wealthy and handsome Fitzwilliam Darcy encounters the beautiful and lively Elizabeth Bennet at a small country ball, he loudly refuses to dance with her, declaring her to be merely tolerable. Fortunately for Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth has walked away and does not overhear his insult, thus snagging the thread that would have sealed her prejudice against the prideful stranger. Unexpectedly, circumstances thrust Elizabeth into the same household as Mr. Darcy, and her proximity unwittingly proves tempting, as her tantalizing wit and playfulness evoke desires that threaten to unravel his resolve against her. In this delightful re-imagining of Jane Austen's beloved classic, Pride and Prejudice, the players are the same, but the rules have changed as the dance between Darcy and Lizzy unfolds.
456 pages, Paperback
First published August 15, 2012
59 people are currently reading
980 people want to read
About the author
Diana J. Oaks
2 books69 followersDiana Oaks is the third of eight children. She grew up in a large and loving home with all of the hi-jinx one would expect with six brothers in the house. She has been known to bemoan the lack of any serious childhood angst to draw upon when writing. She graduated in 1981 from Ricks College in Rexburg Idaho, with an emphasis on Interior Design. She considered changing her major to English, but was told by her English professor that it was a dead-end degree. She has been known to bemoan the lack of any serious sentence diagramming drills to draw upon when writing. Diana has been married to her husband Adam since 1982, and is a mother of three adult children, who are now making her a happy "Nana."
Her debut novel, One Thread Pulled: The Dance with Mr. Darcy, was released on August 14, 2012. She started writing it at the end of 2010, when the economic downturn caused a severe cutback in her work hours. The story developed a large online following prior to publication in print and eBook format, which were posted under the pen names "Artemis Acorn" and "fiveoaks."
Diana currently resides with her husband in Salt Lake City, Utah
Her debut novel, One Thread Pulled: The Dance with Mr. Darcy, was released on August 14, 2012. She started writing it at the end of 2010, when the economic downturn caused a severe cutback in her work hours. The story developed a large online following prior to publication in print and eBook format, which were posted under the pen names "Artemis Acorn" and "fiveoaks."
Diana currently resides with her husband in Salt Lake City, Utah
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
August 7, 2025
I felt the need to justify my rating, though my status updates provide an accurate picture of what reading this book does to your brain. The first half of this book is excellent. 5 stars. The second half is OMGWTF. -792 stars. So overall, 2 stars. Math: I am bad at it.
But seriously, the book is well-written, the premise is good, the characters are true to Jane Austen. But then a little more than halfway through the plot NONSENSE HAPPENS. And continues to happen until the book reaches it's totally unsatisfying conclusion. FAINTING! POISON! CRAZINESS IN THE FAMILY! SECRET DISGUISES! MURDERRRRRRRRRRRRR! Ugh. No thanks.
I totally would recommend it though, if only because it's super interesting to really, really like a book and then witness it go spectacularly off the rails.
But seriously, the book is well-written, the premise is good, the characters are true to Jane Austen. But then a little more than halfway through the plot NONSENSE HAPPENS. And continues to happen until the book reaches it's totally unsatisfying conclusion. FAINTING! POISON! CRAZINESS IN THE FAMILY! SECRET DISGUISES! MURDERRRRRRRRRRRRR! Ugh. No thanks.
I totally would recommend it though, if only because it's super interesting to really, really like a book and then witness it go spectacularly off the rails.
October 15, 2013
1.5 stars rounded up to 2
DNF at 60%
Okay, I fully realise this is Austen fanfic, but while a fanfic reader will enjoy a story that goes on nearly forever - the result of the anticipation brought on by having to wait for the next chapter - the same cannot be said for an actual book, I mean this book is about twice the length of Pride & Prejudice...
It's actually well written, and though the characters aren't entirely the ones Austen wrote, they're not wildly out of character either, at the beginning at least, and it's an interesting exploration, but it wastes so much time on the trivial!
Oh, and one thing - Colonel Fitzwilliam stealing Elizabeth's handkerchief so Darcy can have it (since stealing lady's tokens is, like, ~so romantic~) was unbelievably creepy! Yes, Darcy is upset and insists the item be returned, but meanwhile he's all freaky with it, sniffing it and kissing it - okay, it's wasn't quite phrased like that:
Once returned to Elizabeth, the cloth that he had privately worshiped would be held against her face, and she would unwittingly receive the kiss he had secretly bestowed in the folds of white embroidery and lace. The thought pleased him so well that a second and third kiss were impulsively added before he returned it to the table.
So yes, Darcy is the Regency equivalent of those neckbeard panty-sniffers. It was bizarre...
~meanwhile~
Elizabeth is losing sleep trying to figure out which perv stole her hanky - she suspects Darcy because he (I swear I'm not making this up and it actually makes sense in the plot) had been caught frequently admiring her handkerchief.
This has to be the first time in my life since I first read Pride & Prejudice that I'm thinking, "Maybe... maybe it's better if they don't end up together." Because come on! How freaky is this whole thing?
Imagine you're Elizabeth, for a second, and your sister has a boyfriend who brings one of his dudebros with him EVERYWHERE - and this dude is the worst, rude and creepy, turning his back to the room and staring out of the window ONLY HE IS NOT, he's actually using the window's reflection to observe everyone like a creep. A silent creep.
Then you catch this dude seriously fixated on your handkerchief. Only no one carries one anymore besides old grandpas, so the modern day equivalent... I don't want to say panties, but... And then they go missing. And you spend your night thinking, "Was it that creep? It probably was." And you want it back but let's be real, you'll have to burn it afterwards, who knows what he's done with it, am I right?!
Then there are some unfortunate turns of phrase, which I just have to share:
"She blushed in the dark at how he may have taken it, when followed by her reference to his horse as a lover."
Settle down, it's not funny (I say laughing 'till tears stream down my face) - she only said that because his horse's name was Romeo. But seriously you can't just write this stuff and expect the reader to take your book seriously...
Then again, maybe they're more suited than I thought - he's sniffing her lacy items, she's referring to his dog as her sweetheart and his horse as a lover...
So while Pride & Prejudice has our couple trying to overcome the deficiencies in their respective personalities so they may become better people and then actually appreciate one another... This has them obsessing over stolen lacy items.
Anyway, this went on and on and then drama after drama after drama - only not reasonable drama - fanfic drama, you know, every other page someone is mortally ill confessing their love.
So when Elizabeth turned to Darcy and asked, "Are you an angel?"...
November 20, 2016
This book is among the first I read when I first discovered the wonderful world of Jane Austen Fan Fiction. I'd been a compulsive re-reader of the original Pride and Prejudice over the previous couple of decades, and finding this new genre of books opened a whole treasure trove for me to explore. I was utterly seduced by Ms. Oaks' authentic-sounding Regency prose, which remains among the best in JAFF.
With the sequel finally available now, I happily reached back to re-visit this old friend. The writing still strikes me as beautiful, elegant, flowing... it's honestly gorgeous, the way the phrasing just pulls you into the early 19th century.
The deviation from the familiar first chapters shows creativity and believability to an extent. Elizabeth never hears Mr. Darcy's insult at the Meryton assembly and, though he is still aloof, she does not instigate the high level of censure against him with all her neighbors, who interact with the Netherfield party more positively. Consequently, Jane's invitation to tea comes earlier in the day. Rather than falling ill from exposure to rain, Jane heads to Netherfield before the storm hits, but her horse throws her when it's spooked by shots from the hunting rifles of Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy. Bingley is the first to her side and, in her delirium from getting knocked upside the head, she believes he's her husband. This takes all the uncertainty of her feelings for him out of the picture. The story proceeds from there.
Along with excellent writing, there are many wonderful scenes, especially in the beginning. Interactions between Elizabeth and Darcy show her to be more playful rather than biting in her responses; her vanity has not been offended by him and, although she doesn't understand him, she doesn't despise him. Their outdoor encounters that include Apollo (Darcy's dog) and Romeo (his horse) have Elizabeth charming the animals as well as the master. Lady Catherine and Anne de Bourgh make an early and impactful appearance, with Lady C. dropping off her parson at Longbourn on the way to London to track down her wayward nephew. Mary Bennet's character gets some love here and proves herself to be a potentially perfect mate for Mr. Collins, who is too dense and too heavily influenced by his patron to recognize it. Colonel Fitzwilliam enters the scene sooner than usual, summoned by Darcy as soon as he discovers Wickham is in the neighborhood militia, and the good Colonel provides a lot of humor as he teases his lovelorn cousin.
The deeper into the book you go, the farther afield from canon the story moves. I am saddened to say that, upon re-reading, I was unpleasantly surprised to realize that it eventually dives into into beautifully-written but hugely over-the-top, parody-like melodrama. In addition, there are various tangent stories that the author relentlessly pursues to extremes. The characters' introspection is overdone. Considering how much story there is in this story, conversations and actions easily demonstrate most of their feelings, and yet their thoughts are spoon-fed to the reader.
The book is very, very long. Yes, it's entertaining throughout because it's so unpredictable and well-written, but by the end of the story it's turned into a To-Be-Continued series of absurdities. It strikes me as colorful wild bush that would be beautiful if it were properly pruned, but it juts out in unsightly directions, and the overgrowth is unhealthy and slowly killing the plant. This author needs an editor.
Although there are some earlier signs that perhaps the book is taking itself too seriously, I'd say it's somewhere around the handkerchief episode when the book gets into "jump the shark" territory. Visiting for tea at Longbourn, Darcy is fascinated by a handkerchief that Elizabeth is embroidering. Col. Fitzwilliam observes this and steals it before the two leave the estate, offering it to Darcy as a token of his lady. Darcy is appalled at the theft and determined to return it as soon as possible, but he can't help repeatedly holding it against his cheek and then kissing it several times. His actions with it are described over a couple of pages in my kindle. I offer this one-sentence sample for you to judge for yourself:
Once returned to Elizabeth, the cloth that he had privately worshipped would be held against her face, and she would unwittingly receive the kiss he had secretly bestowed in the folds of white embroidery and lace.
Kinda girly, there, Darcy.
Shortly after that, the story spins out of control.
Ironically, the cliffhanger ending that sets up the sequel shows promise and seems more credible. This is a good solid premise that's intriguing.
So, despite all I've said above, I'm eager to get to the second book in this series to see how this plays out. I'm hoping that the quality of the plot will equal the quality of the writing. But even if the plot becomes as ridiculous as this one, I expect to fall in love with Ms. Oaks' use of language to convey it.
With the sequel finally available now, I happily reached back to re-visit this old friend. The writing still strikes me as beautiful, elegant, flowing... it's honestly gorgeous, the way the phrasing just pulls you into the early 19th century.
The deviation from the familiar first chapters shows creativity and believability to an extent. Elizabeth never hears Mr. Darcy's insult at the Meryton assembly and, though he is still aloof, she does not instigate the high level of censure against him with all her neighbors, who interact with the Netherfield party more positively. Consequently, Jane's invitation to tea comes earlier in the day. Rather than falling ill from exposure to rain, Jane heads to Netherfield before the storm hits, but her horse throws her when it's spooked by shots from the hunting rifles of Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy. Bingley is the first to her side and, in her delirium from getting knocked upside the head, she believes he's her husband. This takes all the uncertainty of her feelings for him out of the picture. The story proceeds from there.
Along with excellent writing, there are many wonderful scenes, especially in the beginning. Interactions between Elizabeth and Darcy show her to be more playful rather than biting in her responses; her vanity has not been offended by him and, although she doesn't understand him, she doesn't despise him. Their outdoor encounters that include Apollo (Darcy's dog) and Romeo (his horse) have Elizabeth charming the animals as well as the master. Lady Catherine and Anne de Bourgh make an early and impactful appearance, with Lady C. dropping off her parson at Longbourn on the way to London to track down her wayward nephew. Mary Bennet's character gets some love here and proves herself to be a potentially perfect mate for Mr. Collins, who is too dense and too heavily influenced by his patron to recognize it. Colonel Fitzwilliam enters the scene sooner than usual, summoned by Darcy as soon as he discovers Wickham is in the neighborhood militia, and the good Colonel provides a lot of humor as he teases his lovelorn cousin.
The deeper into the book you go, the farther afield from canon the story moves. I am saddened to say that, upon re-reading, I was unpleasantly surprised to realize that it eventually dives into into beautifully-written but hugely over-the-top, parody-like melodrama. In addition, there are various tangent stories that the author relentlessly pursues to extremes. The characters' introspection is overdone. Considering how much story there is in this story, conversations and actions easily demonstrate most of their feelings, and yet their thoughts are spoon-fed to the reader.
The book is very, very long. Yes, it's entertaining throughout because it's so unpredictable and well-written, but by the end of the story it's turned into a To-Be-Continued series of absurdities. It strikes me as colorful wild bush that would be beautiful if it were properly pruned, but it juts out in unsightly directions, and the overgrowth is unhealthy and slowly killing the plant. This author needs an editor.
Although there are some earlier signs that perhaps the book is taking itself too seriously, I'd say it's somewhere around the handkerchief episode when the book gets into "jump the shark" territory. Visiting for tea at Longbourn, Darcy is fascinated by a handkerchief that Elizabeth is embroidering. Col. Fitzwilliam observes this and steals it before the two leave the estate, offering it to Darcy as a token of his lady. Darcy is appalled at the theft and determined to return it as soon as possible, but he can't help repeatedly holding it against his cheek and then kissing it several times. His actions with it are described over a couple of pages in my kindle. I offer this one-sentence sample for you to judge for yourself:
Once returned to Elizabeth, the cloth that he had privately worshipped would be held against her face, and she would unwittingly receive the kiss he had secretly bestowed in the folds of white embroidery and lace.
Kinda girly, there, Darcy.
Shortly after that, the story spins out of control.
Ironically, the cliffhanger ending that sets up the sequel shows promise and seems more credible. This is a good solid premise that's intriguing.
So, despite all I've said above, I'm eager to get to the second book in this series to see how this plays out. I'm hoping that the quality of the plot will equal the quality of the writing. But even if the plot becomes as ridiculous as this one, I expect to fall in love with Ms. Oaks' use of language to convey it.
December 19, 2012
To be fair, the first 2/3 of the book was worthy of 5 stars. I was in a fair way of becoming convinced this was the best P&P "what if" I've ever read. Then, it wasn't one thread pulled, but an entire unraveling of the heretofore beautiful story which had enthralled me with the rich character development. It went off the deep end with clerical compromises, paranoid poisonings, and mysterious murder. I was just getting to the point where I was looking forlornly at the fact that I was more than half way through this great book when it got weird, and I was very disappointed. To add insult to injury, the ending was so very unsatisfying, even if I excluded the aforementioned deviations. I was so eager to rate this a 5, which I rarely give to P&P variations. I still have great faith in the author, however, and will give any of her future endeavors a chance. sigh......
April 10, 2022
Loved, loved this book. I can see reading it over and over. Just wonderful. Jane and Bingley were so adorable. I also love Col Fitzwilliam's style of dialogue. Is there a sequel to this?
Read again yesterday and still love it. It never gets old. I wanted to refresh my memory before reading the sequel.
Read: Still 5 stars.
Reread: Wonderful
Read again yesterday and still love it. It never gets old. I wanted to refresh my memory before reading the sequel.
Read: Still 5 stars.
Reread: Wonderful
February 20, 2015
So I've never actually read a P&P rewrite, sequel, or even fanfiction before, but felt nostalgic for Longbourn last night and came across this one. It had pretty good reviews on Amazon, so I went for it. For the first third or so of the book, I was very happy with this decision. Then all hell broke loose.
The first third, or close to even half of the book, is worth probably four stars, and was such a pleasant surprise. The characters were pretty close to being written as Jane Austen wrote them and only rarely OOC. It was nicely paced, sweet, and reminded me of what I had liked about the original P&P.
Then suddenly... well, Darcy got creepy. Like, secretly kissing & fondling Elizabeth's handkerchief creepy. Completely OOC. And Mr. Collin's (in the book: apologetic, sniveling, over-concerned with formality) tried to FORCE HIMSELF on Elizabeth to secure marriage with her. NOPE, completely OOC. Fitz & Darcy become a crime-fighting duo & descend to the dark underbelly of London where they solve a murder in the span of a single day? Wtf. No. OOC. It was all so bizarre.
And Elizabeth became more and more obviously an insufferable Mary Sue. Everyone fell all over themselves to love her, besides the mean, evil, snobs who all got comeuppances by the end of the book. At first I liked that poor Anne de Bourgh got some kindness and attention in this adaptation, until she fell into a weird platonic instalove with Elizabeth for... giving her a snack?
Speaking of instalove, the main characters and their dashing love interests professed their love wayyy too quickly with way too little actual conflict beforehand. The romantic arc of the storyline peaked too early, and the readers were left to slog through to the end, pestered by constant stolen kisses and "dearests" and "loveliests."
I did actually that Mary Bennet got a little more sympathy and playing time in this adaptation, but it was only after Elizabeth acted the Cher to Mary's gawky Tai and gave her a Clueless-montage-style makeover, complete with spit curls and a pink dress. (You don't have to change for any man, Mary!! Screw the spit curls!) I was SUPER happy that she rejected Mr. Collin's offer of proposal (although those two totally should have ended up together in the original book), considering her had just tried to rape her older sister, like, an hour before. Anyways, a silver lining to this book was that poor, pedantic, plain Mary Bennet got a happy ending.
The worst part of this novel was it's ~~**dramatic conclusion**~~. Spoilers here, but the author tried to neatly fix a bunch of problems for the main characters by revealing suddenly and at the very end of the book that the Bingleys had a mad older sister in Bedlam and (dun dun DUN) Caroline was following in her footsteps and had to be sent away for trying to poison Elizabeth! So Caroline and her snobbery were neatly and completely unbelievably removed to not disrupt the happy endings of our heroines. Wickham gets MURDERED before he can even cause any real mischief (or, you know, add any kind of interesting, plot-moving conflict to the story). Mr. Collins is found to NOT really be the Bennets cousin after all, so the estate won't be entailed away from the girls after their father dies (eyeroll. eyeroll so damn hard).
I was literally just staring in disgust at the final pages of this book. On top of all of that ridiculousness, the ending wasn't even grimly satisfying because it ended before Elizabeth could even marry (babely, but creepily handkerchief-fondling) Mr. Darcy.
Skip this one, P&P lovers. Or if you really must read it-- I don't know, just consider yourself warned for the second half of OOC drama.
The first third, or close to even half of the book, is worth probably four stars, and was such a pleasant surprise. The characters were pretty close to being written as Jane Austen wrote them and only rarely OOC. It was nicely paced, sweet, and reminded me of what I had liked about the original P&P.
Then suddenly... well, Darcy got creepy. Like, secretly kissing & fondling Elizabeth's handkerchief creepy. Completely OOC. And Mr. Collin's (in the book: apologetic, sniveling, over-concerned with formality) tried to FORCE HIMSELF on Elizabeth to secure marriage with her. NOPE, completely OOC. Fitz & Darcy become a crime-fighting duo & descend to the dark underbelly of London where they solve a murder in the span of a single day? Wtf. No. OOC. It was all so bizarre.
And Elizabeth became more and more obviously an insufferable Mary Sue. Everyone fell all over themselves to love her, besides the mean, evil, snobs who all got comeuppances by the end of the book. At first I liked that poor Anne de Bourgh got some kindness and attention in this adaptation, until she fell into a weird platonic instalove with Elizabeth for... giving her a snack?
Speaking of instalove, the main characters and their dashing love interests professed their love wayyy too quickly with way too little actual conflict beforehand. The romantic arc of the storyline peaked too early, and the readers were left to slog through to the end, pestered by constant stolen kisses and "dearests" and "loveliests."
I did actually that Mary Bennet got a little more sympathy and playing time in this adaptation, but it was only after Elizabeth acted the Cher to Mary's gawky Tai and gave her a Clueless-montage-style makeover, complete with spit curls and a pink dress. (You don't have to change for any man, Mary!! Screw the spit curls!) I was SUPER happy that she rejected Mr. Collin's offer of proposal (although those two totally should have ended up together in the original book), considering her had just tried to rape her older sister, like, an hour before. Anyways, a silver lining to this book was that poor, pedantic, plain Mary Bennet got a happy ending.
The worst part of this novel was it's ~~**dramatic conclusion**~~. Spoilers here, but the author tried to neatly fix a bunch of problems for the main characters by revealing suddenly and at the very end of the book that the Bingleys had a mad older sister in Bedlam and (dun dun DUN) Caroline was following in her footsteps and had to be sent away for trying to poison Elizabeth! So Caroline and her snobbery were neatly and completely unbelievably removed to not disrupt the happy endings of our heroines. Wickham gets MURDERED before he can even cause any real mischief (or, you know, add any kind of interesting, plot-moving conflict to the story). Mr. Collins is found to NOT really be the Bennets cousin after all, so the estate won't be entailed away from the girls after their father dies (eyeroll. eyeroll so damn hard).
I was literally just staring in disgust at the final pages of this book. On top of all of that ridiculousness, the ending wasn't even grimly satisfying because it ended before Elizabeth could even marry (babely, but creepily handkerchief-fondling) Mr. Darcy.
Skip this one, P&P lovers. Or if you really must read it-- I don't know, just consider yourself warned for the second half of OOC drama.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2015
I loved this book. It is an endearing story of Elizabeth & Darcy and I was really touched by it. I presume there will be a sequel as the reader is left wondering exactly how the couple will fare in London during the waiting period imposed by lizzy's father.
I must admit that shortly after finishing the book, I reread it...... Pure bliss.
I must admit that shortly after finishing the book, I reread it...... Pure bliss.
April 9, 2017
At the Meryton Assembly Elizabeth does not hear the insult from Darcy. How does that change their relationship, especially when Jane has an accident on the way to Netherfield.
Overall an enjoyable story though at times there was too much introspection from Darcy and Elizabeth for my taste.
For me the book was saved by the appearance and actions of Colonel Fitzwilliam. Much more than in canon
Overall an enjoyable story though at times there was too much introspection from Darcy and Elizabeth for my taste.
For me the book was saved by the appearance and actions of Colonel Fitzwilliam. Much more than in canon
December 19, 2017
GLAD THERE IS A SEQUEL
I bought this story on kindle after a reviewer made a comment on one of my reviews (a nice comment). So I decided to check out all of her reviews. I ended up adding about half a dozen books to my wish list, as I had a number waiting to be read on my new kindle already. So as I came to the end of those stories I read the reviews and ordered this book...yesterday and finished at 2:21 AM this morning. Then, as I always do, I read ALL of the reviews before writing my own....yes, all 133 reviews. I was going to only give this book 4 stars because I was disappointed that the end seemed abrupt and there was no epilogue....BUT I read that there is a sequel due out this year.
So much has been written already by other reviewers. However, I just want to add, (as I don't see a comment elsewhere), that I enjoyed Lizzy's interaction with Darcy's dog, Apollo, and his horse, Romeo. I particularly liked the scene when Elizabeth is walking by a house (the house of the shawl maker) and Apollo is sitting there so she pets him, kisses him and then just leaves without a backwards glance, without looking for his owner. Darcy comes out of the house, sees that she was not looking for him and notes that she was not artificial in paying attention to the pet to gain attention from its owner!
I was horrified by the scene in which Mrs. Bennet takes Mr. Collins into our very sick heroine's bedroom and closes the door...so that he can propose to her BUT it then borders on a ravishment scene. I truly was not sure if that was where this was going!!!! Thankfully - NOT. In covering her mouth with his hand, Mr. Collins then comes down with her illness - good consequence! And horrified when Lizzie is left unguarded with Caroline on the loose in Netherfield. Wasn't sure if she was actually going to inflict physical injury on Lizzie. Suspense!
Further comment: I kept trying to imagine what the stitching on Elizabeth's handkerchief looked like, in that the author writes that there seemed to be the initials "D" and "E" stitched thereupon. Wish I had a drawing as I do needle work and cannot imagine any such stitching.
I always love being in the heads of our main characters. Diana does this very well. Yes, she does have dire outcomes for Caroline and Wickham but that is part of what JAFF is all about for me - different "what-if" situations - the stretching of our imaginations. And some of the outcomes are ones many JA lovers wanted in the first place. Didn't we all want consideration of Mary as a possibility for a wife for Collins? - Didn't get that far here, but it was explored. And Wickham - with his womanizing, with his leaving debts of honor and debts with shopkeepers and with his profligacy in first, throwing away 4,000 pounds, and then becoming a financial burden for life for Darcy to get him to marry Lydia...I am very happy with any author who actually paints him out of the picture.
Hope the sequel comes out soon. But will be re-reading this novel at some time, maybe more than once.
I bought this story on kindle after a reviewer made a comment on one of my reviews (a nice comment). So I decided to check out all of her reviews. I ended up adding about half a dozen books to my wish list, as I had a number waiting to be read on my new kindle already. So as I came to the end of those stories I read the reviews and ordered this book...yesterday and finished at 2:21 AM this morning. Then, as I always do, I read ALL of the reviews before writing my own....yes, all 133 reviews. I was going to only give this book 4 stars because I was disappointed that the end seemed abrupt and there was no epilogue....BUT I read that there is a sequel due out this year.
So much has been written already by other reviewers. However, I just want to add, (as I don't see a comment elsewhere), that I enjoyed Lizzy's interaction with Darcy's dog, Apollo, and his horse, Romeo. I particularly liked the scene when Elizabeth is walking by a house (the house of the shawl maker) and Apollo is sitting there so she pets him, kisses him and then just leaves without a backwards glance, without looking for his owner. Darcy comes out of the house, sees that she was not looking for him and notes that she was not artificial in paying attention to the pet to gain attention from its owner!
I was horrified by the scene in which Mrs. Bennet takes Mr. Collins into our very sick heroine's bedroom and closes the door...so that he can propose to her BUT it then borders on a ravishment scene. I truly was not sure if that was where this was going!!!! Thankfully - NOT. In covering her mouth with his hand, Mr. Collins then comes down with her illness - good consequence! And horrified when Lizzie is left unguarded with Caroline on the loose in Netherfield. Wasn't sure if she was actually going to inflict physical injury on Lizzie. Suspense!
Further comment: I kept trying to imagine what the stitching on Elizabeth's handkerchief looked like, in that the author writes that there seemed to be the initials "D" and "E" stitched thereupon. Wish I had a drawing as I do needle work and cannot imagine any such stitching.
I always love being in the heads of our main characters. Diana does this very well. Yes, she does have dire outcomes for Caroline and Wickham but that is part of what JAFF is all about for me - different "what-if" situations - the stretching of our imaginations. And some of the outcomes are ones many JA lovers wanted in the first place. Didn't we all want consideration of Mary as a possibility for a wife for Collins? - Didn't get that far here, but it was explored. And Wickham - with his womanizing, with his leaving debts of honor and debts with shopkeepers and with his profligacy in first, throwing away 4,000 pounds, and then becoming a financial burden for life for Darcy to get him to marry Lydia...I am very happy with any author who actually paints him out of the picture.
Hope the sequel comes out soon. But will be re-reading this novel at some time, maybe more than once.
January 6, 2013
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Variation – What if Elizabeth moved out of earshot before Darcy stated his ill-fated “barely tolerable” insult?
TIME FRAME: Begins with the Meryton Assembly
MAIN CHARACTERS: Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Darcy, Jane Bennet, Mr. Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Lady Catherine, Mr. Collins, Caroline Bingley, Anne de Bourgh
WHY I WANTED TO READ THIS NOVEL:
It's a Pride and Prejudice variation...only my most favorite type of Austenesque novel!
A New Author! I've never read anything by Diana Oaks before.
Loved the idea of Elizabeth not hearing Darcy's slight – was very curious to see how this altered her opinion of and behavior towards the proud gentleman from Derbyshire.
WHAT I LOVED:
The Premise: Since Elizabeth's pride is not wounded by Darcy's slight, she is a little bit more amicable and friendly towards him in this variation. In addition, there is more than one thread being pulled in this variation as events like Jane's illness, Mr. Collins's arrival, and the Netherfield Ball create new twists and turns in the path.
Elizabeth Bennet: Besides being one of Jane Austen's finest and most “delightful characters,” Elizabeth is a devoted sister, compassionate friend, and affectionate person. And in One Thread Pulled readers can witness these qualities of her character as she more frequently displays them. I loved seeing Elizabeth assist and care for her sisters, show kindness and friendship towards Anne de Bourgh, and visit with the tenants on her father's estate. It is very easy to comprehend why Darcy falls in love with her!
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TIME FRAME: Begins with the Meryton Assembly
MAIN CHARACTERS: Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Darcy, Jane Bennet, Mr. Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Lady Catherine, Mr. Collins, Caroline Bingley, Anne de Bourgh
WHY I WANTED TO READ THIS NOVEL:
It's a Pride and Prejudice variation...only my most favorite type of Austenesque novel!
A New Author! I've never read anything by Diana Oaks before.
Loved the idea of Elizabeth not hearing Darcy's slight – was very curious to see how this altered her opinion of and behavior towards the proud gentleman from Derbyshire.
WHAT I LOVED:
The Premise: Since Elizabeth's pride is not wounded by Darcy's slight, she is a little bit more amicable and friendly towards him in this variation. In addition, there is more than one thread being pulled in this variation as events like Jane's illness, Mr. Collins's arrival, and the Netherfield Ball create new twists and turns in the path.
Elizabeth Bennet: Besides being one of Jane Austen's finest and most “delightful characters,” Elizabeth is a devoted sister, compassionate friend, and affectionate person. And in One Thread Pulled readers can witness these qualities of her character as she more frequently displays them. I loved seeing Elizabeth assist and care for her sisters, show kindness and friendship towards Anne de Bourgh, and visit with the tenants on her father's estate. It is very easy to comprehend why Darcy falls in love with her!
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January 29, 2013
I can say I truly enjoyed this Austen adaptation--it didn't just repeat the original and it didn't put in any ridiculous sex scenes. Instead, it was full of psychological drama, humor, and courtship.
I like how this author decided to tell the tale of what would happen if Elizabeth didn't hear Darcy disparage her at their first meeting. It was amazing to see how she thought the story would unravel without that one comment. I felt she was true to the characters of Lizzy and Darcy--both struggling with their emotions but slowly recognizing their attraction for each other.
I felt that Wickham got what he deserved and was glad to see that he and Lydia don't end up together in this adaptation. However, I have a hard time believing Lydia and Georgiana could end up friends. Also, Caroline's madness was a bit weak. I wanted her to be completely aware of her plan to separate Darcy and Lizzy, rather than have it be attributed to a genetic condition. No one seems to want Caroline to be as horrible as I expect her to be.
The Mr. Collins fiasco is amusing, as is the transformation of Mary Bennet. And as I said before, there is no unnecessary sex to mire down a beautiful love story. Yes, there are smouldering looks, stolen kisses, flirtatious dialogue, and declarations of love, but nothing else to ruin the story. A wonderful adaptation!
I like how this author decided to tell the tale of what would happen if Elizabeth didn't hear Darcy disparage her at their first meeting. It was amazing to see how she thought the story would unravel without that one comment. I felt she was true to the characters of Lizzy and Darcy--both struggling with their emotions but slowly recognizing their attraction for each other.
I felt that Wickham got what he deserved and was glad to see that he and Lydia don't end up together in this adaptation. However, I have a hard time believing Lydia and Georgiana could end up friends. Also, Caroline's madness was a bit weak. I wanted her to be completely aware of her plan to separate Darcy and Lizzy, rather than have it be attributed to a genetic condition. No one seems to want Caroline to be as horrible as I expect her to be.
The Mr. Collins fiasco is amusing, as is the transformation of Mary Bennet. And as I said before, there is no unnecessary sex to mire down a beautiful love story. Yes, there are smouldering looks, stolen kisses, flirtatious dialogue, and declarations of love, but nothing else to ruin the story. A wonderful adaptation!
March 16, 2022
Well written
But not enough to get past the reality that no HEA was achieved and one I’d not guaranteed. Luckily the second book exists which I will now read.
But not enough to get past the reality that no HEA was achieved and one I’d not guaranteed. Luckily the second book exists which I will now read.
June 10, 2017
Delightful, witty, creative, and I couldn’t put it down.
I found this author on the Austen Authors website and was curious about her work. The reviews seemed favorable so I decided to get book 1 of The One Thread Pulled Series: The Dance with Mr. Darcy. The premise is how the story would differ if Elizabeth had not heard the insult at the Meryton Assembly. I purchased the ebook for my NOOK and I am so glad I did.
Let me just say…when you get on this roller coaster…hold on with both hands. I could not put it down. As my clock approached 2:00 a.m., I finally had to get some sleep. Page after page of surprises that were creative, witty, breath-holding, and anxious… ‘OMG they did not just do that’ type of scenes. It seemed there were surprises on every page. I was in a constant state of “this is so awesome” that I will have to reread it in order to see what I missed because I was reading so quickly that I might have overlooked clues. I am so glad I bought it.
There are some places where it seemed to drag but that was because, # 1 I needed to catch my breath, and #2 I was so anxious to see what happened next that I didn’t want to wait for the drama to unfold…my bad.
The dealings with Mr. Wickham were awful, he was just plain evil. In his letter to Darcy threatening extortion, I was very uncomfortable hearing him extol his feelings for Georgiana [like he really cared for her and not her fortune]. I did not want to feel sorry for him. What happened to him seemed rushed and ended too quickly. I still have questions and it seemed what happened was too convenient. I did like the brothers and can see them again in future installments in London whenever muscle is needed. They would be great comic relief. I loved their mother. What a crew.
Poor Mr. Collins was portrayed slightly more pompous and toadish than in canon and I hated that for him and more so for Charlotte, but the OMG surprises regarding him will floor you. I lost total respect for him in his handling of the proposal to Elizabeth. I loved Mary’s rational and wisdom in her speech to Mr. Collins…well done. I really liked how Mary evolved in the story.
Mrs. Bennet…I wanted to absolutely shake her…I really wanted to shake her. Her disdain and lack of concern for Elizabeth’s health, consequence, future [at the expense of the family entail], propriety, reputation, OMG I do not have the words to describe what she did and in front of servants and her other daughters. If Mr. Bennet had ANY idea what Mrs. B did to Elizabeth [his favorite daughter] he would NEVER forgive her.
Lady Catherine is EVIL incarnate and I am sure the second book will bring all her promised threats to fruition. I really liked Anne in this story. I can see her coming into her own even more in the next book.
Caroline Bingley was a shocking surprise. JA’s P&P states that Bingley had five sisters and most JAFF only deal with the two we are most familiar with, Caroline and Mrs. Hurst. In this version we are told of an older Bingley sister and a family secret.
The purpose in reading JAFF is to be entertained and to continue with stories that deal with our favorite characters. Oaks did a superb job in doing both. There were minimal editing errors, a word replacement or an extra word here or there, nothing major.
I found this author on the Austen Authors website and was curious about her work. The reviews seemed favorable so I decided to get book 1 of The One Thread Pulled Series: The Dance with Mr. Darcy. The premise is how the story would differ if Elizabeth had not heard the insult at the Meryton Assembly. I purchased the ebook for my NOOK and I am so glad I did.
Let me just say…when you get on this roller coaster…hold on with both hands. I could not put it down. As my clock approached 2:00 a.m., I finally had to get some sleep. Page after page of surprises that were creative, witty, breath-holding, and anxious… ‘OMG they did not just do that’ type of scenes. It seemed there were surprises on every page. I was in a constant state of “this is so awesome” that I will have to reread it in order to see what I missed because I was reading so quickly that I might have overlooked clues. I am so glad I bought it.
There are some places where it seemed to drag but that was because, # 1 I needed to catch my breath, and #2 I was so anxious to see what happened next that I didn’t want to wait for the drama to unfold…my bad.
The dealings with Mr. Wickham were awful, he was just plain evil. In his letter to Darcy threatening extortion, I was very uncomfortable hearing him extol his feelings for Georgiana [like he really cared for her and not her fortune]. I did not want to feel sorry for him. What happened to him seemed rushed and ended too quickly. I still have questions and it seemed what happened was too convenient. I did like the brothers and can see them again in future installments in London whenever muscle is needed. They would be great comic relief. I loved their mother. What a crew.
Poor Mr. Collins was portrayed slightly more pompous and toadish than in canon and I hated that for him and more so for Charlotte, but the OMG surprises regarding him will floor you. I lost total respect for him in his handling of the proposal to Elizabeth. I loved Mary’s rational and wisdom in her speech to Mr. Collins…well done. I really liked how Mary evolved in the story.
Mrs. Bennet…I wanted to absolutely shake her…I really wanted to shake her. Her disdain and lack of concern for Elizabeth’s health, consequence, future [at the expense of the family entail], propriety, reputation, OMG I do not have the words to describe what she did and in front of servants and her other daughters. If Mr. Bennet had ANY idea what Mrs. B did to Elizabeth [his favorite daughter] he would NEVER forgive her.
Lady Catherine is EVIL incarnate and I am sure the second book will bring all her promised threats to fruition. I really liked Anne in this story. I can see her coming into her own even more in the next book.
Caroline Bingley was a shocking surprise. JA’s P&P states that Bingley had five sisters and most JAFF only deal with the two we are most familiar with, Caroline and Mrs. Hurst. In this version we are told of an older Bingley sister and a family secret.
The purpose in reading JAFF is to be entertained and to continue with stories that deal with our favorite characters. Oaks did a superb job in doing both. There were minimal editing errors, a word replacement or an extra word here or there, nothing major.
October 17, 2012
I've always enjoyed good Jane Austen Fan-fiction. Emphasis on GOOD. . .This book did a good job straying from the original story line (why write fan fiction if it is just going to repeat the original in every scene?) but staying true to the characters. There were several side characters who were way out there (Caroline Bingley is a perfect example of this), but all in all most acted in a way that made sense for how I see them. The author took a particular point in the original novel and changed what happened just a teeny bit (one thread was pulled. . . .). There were a few things that bugged me just a bit (it seems like it is set up for a sequel . . .Not sure about that. . . .BUT the sequel looks like it could become just a bit too angst filled. I really crave that good old Happily Every After moment and if it is put off too long I get annoyed. Another is really nit-picky. . . the author or editor miss spelled Maria Lucas's name. . . How hard is that to look up??). Anyway, this is a cute read and I would recommend it to anyone who likes Jane Austen fan work.
January 20, 2017
This little story I found on "darcyandlizzy.com". The story starts out on the premise that Elizabeth Bennet does not overhear Mr Darcy's disparaging remark. He still gives offense to everyone at the assembley by ignoring and walking around so very proud and ignoring everyone. Elizabeth is not impressed and though her opinion of him is not very good, she does not have the same atitude as the original P&P. Darcy of course goes through the same denials and the story progresses from there. There are alot of changes in what happens but the journey is wonderful, the characters are true to form and you will not be disappointed. I loved this book and just found out that the author has one last chapter to post. Yeah!! I sincerely hope this book when finnished gets printed. It truely was an amazing journey.
July 9, 2020
Held my interest
This is a readable story that I found engaging.
*July, 2020 edit:
I have recently been made aware that this author is part of the Austen Authors Facebook group. That group removed a post by one of its authors about including a diversity of characters in JAFF. The group claims that a discussion of inclusion violates its commitment to “neutrality” in social issues. My contention is that if they aren’t even willing to post this as a topic for discussion, they are making white supremacy their neutral position. I’m deeply saddened that this author has made the decision to stay in the group, and feel that readers have a right to know before they spend their money.
This is a readable story that I found engaging.
*July, 2020 edit:
I have recently been made aware that this author is part of the Austen Authors Facebook group. That group removed a post by one of its authors about including a diversity of characters in JAFF. The group claims that a discussion of inclusion violates its commitment to “neutrality” in social issues. My contention is that if they aren’t even willing to post this as a topic for discussion, they are making white supremacy their neutral position. I’m deeply saddened that this author has made the decision to stay in the group, and feel that readers have a right to know before they spend their money.
October 25, 2012
Loved it. The plot was rivetting. Loved how the author kept some of the exact same quotes. The book takes you on quite a different tangent, but I can imagine that Jane Austen would have approved. It was nice to see the take on a few questions ie "what if Darcy let people know about Whickam and his sister".
April 21, 2017
The two stars are for everything that led up to the Netherfield Ball. After that it turned into a ridiculous, haphazard, jigsaw puzzle with pieces that don't fit. It was painful how outrageous everything was. A waste of time. Jane Austen would burn it.
May 31, 2022
Original
Take away one element of the original plot and a whole new landscape opens. I'm really amazed at how the story can change completely and go in a different direction.
Highly recommended!
Take away one element of the original plot and a whole new landscape opens. I'm really amazed at how the story can change completely and go in a different direction.
Highly recommended!
October 27, 2012
This was great! I enjoyed every aspect and cannot wait until book 2!
December 7, 2012
Rachel was too generous. This book is CRA-ZY.
June 19, 2021
Good book
I enjoyed the book good plot, didn't know it was a two book series. Glad the villains got taken care of right.
I enjoyed the book good plot, didn't know it was a two book series. Glad the villains got taken care of right.
March 25, 2024
I find that I quite liked it. Probably one main issue would be the story being a little too long, but this is the tendency of FF - to write as long story as one could for the sake of readers sometimes loosing the story thread in the process. Here story is quite consistent even though heroes get too much to overcome on their road to HEA. And stakes have been sufficiently rising in the process so all looks legit.
I like Colonel Fitzwilliam here. Although all male heroes act quite nicely. Even Bingley rise for a challenge. I do not like when he is portered as meek one. Darcy, of course is beyond compare even if a little rascal. But we like when heroes can't keep away from heroine.
Madness of Lady Catherine was very entertaining. And I liked Ann a lot. Hopefully she is able to win her own HEA. Author found the perfect gentleman for that. As long as won't be afraid of the dragon and make the third attempt.
I want to read the second part and I want to see them wed.
I like Colonel Fitzwilliam here. Although all male heroes act quite nicely. Even Bingley rise for a challenge. I do not like when he is portered as meek one. Darcy, of course is beyond compare even if a little rascal. But we like when heroes can't keep away from heroine.
Madness of Lady Catherine was very entertaining. And I liked Ann a lot. Hopefully she is able to win her own HEA. Author found the perfect gentleman for that. As long as won't be afraid of the dragon and make the third attempt.
I want to read the second part and I want to see them wed.
June 10, 2022
Very Good Variation
Reviewed in Canada on May 8, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I didn’t realize there was a book two until I went to write my review and saw the second book recommended. As such, it led me to reserve my critique of an unsatisfying ending to Book One. I’m happy to know about the second volume. Therefore, I have mainly good thoughts about book one. Great story and very good dialogue throughout. The twists from canon are well placed and thought out. Highly recommend this book.
Reviewed in Canada on May 8, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I didn’t realize there was a book two until I went to write my review and saw the second book recommended. As such, it led me to reserve my critique of an unsatisfying ending to Book One. I’m happy to know about the second volume. Therefore, I have mainly good thoughts about book one. Great story and very good dialogue throughout. The twists from canon are well placed and thought out. Highly recommend this book.
December 12, 2021
One of the first JAFF I've ever read, still remember the great writing, still remember the silly handkerchief plot.
Didn't like the ending, didn't read the sequel.
Didn't like the ending, didn't read the sequel.
May 31, 2022
A worthy re-read. I enjoyed it again and loved the changes that one change in the plot made to the whole story. Now to read the next book!
March 29, 2022
I was expecting ludicrous silliness and while it strayed well into that arena it actually wasn’t as awful as I’d expected. In fact, some characterisation and conversation was remarkably well done. The book could have done with losing a third of its length and much of the latter will-they-won’t-they but overall I’m more impressed than I’d anticipated.
March 14, 2012
OH I love this story! I do so wish it will be published as I would love to read this story over and over again flipping through my favorite chapters. If you ever wondered how the P&P storyline would play out if our dear Lizzy didn't hear the slight against her from Darcy ("tolerable but not handsome enough to tempt me") this is the book for you. Remember in P&P Lizzy had said "I could easily have forgiven his pride if he hadn't injured mine" - well this book proves it! Also the 2 obstacles that caused Lizzy to dislike Darcy are not in this book. For one, Darcy exposes Wickham's character to Mr Bennett and also to his regiment officer with the help of his cousin Fitzwilliam. Secondly, Darcy does not object to Bingley's love interest in Jane as Jane makes it evident that she has really feelings for Bingley - oh how a fever will cause one to say what is in their heart... What surprised me was lot that befall Caroline. I almost didn't believe it.. and that Collins would have been so insistent with Lizzy - I just can't picture him coming into her bed chamber when she's out with a high fever to demand their engagement - how ridiculous. But I did love the story so!! And I do wish the author will write a part 2 as I would love to read about Darcy and Lizzy's engagement and time in London!
February 2, 2013
I resisted reading this variation for a few months after reading a sample. The positive reviews lured me back to the book finally and as I suspected I liked the story but found it a bit long. I imagine an author gets attached to all parts of the creation and has a hard time paring it down. The long narrative lead to an abrupt ending of sorts . . . gearing down for a continuation novel perhaps? Then 'boo'!! I'm another reader sorely tired of this trend
synopsis from cover
When the wealthy and handsome Fitzwilliam Darcy encounters the beautiful and lively Elizabeth Bennet at a small country ball, he loudly refuses to dance with her, declaring her to be merely tolerable. Fortunately for Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth has walked away and does not overhear his insult, thus snagging the thread that would have sealed her prejudice against the prideful stranger.
Unexpectedly, circumstances thrust Elizabeth into the same household as Mr. Darcy, and her proximity unwittingly proves tempting, as her tantalizing wit and playfulness evoke desires that threaten to unravel his resolve against her.
synopsis from cover
When the wealthy and handsome Fitzwilliam Darcy encounters the beautiful and lively Elizabeth Bennet at a small country ball, he loudly refuses to dance with her, declaring her to be merely tolerable. Fortunately for Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth has walked away and does not overhear his insult, thus snagging the thread that would have sealed her prejudice against the prideful stranger.
Unexpectedly, circumstances thrust Elizabeth into the same household as Mr. Darcy, and her proximity unwittingly proves tempting, as her tantalizing wit and playfulness evoke desires that threaten to unravel his resolve against her.
January 21, 2015
This book was solidly okay. In much of it, particularly the beginning, I felt that Ms. Oaks captured the characters of my favorite novel fairly well. However I felt that the deeper you got into the book, the farther it strayed from feeling like it could have been written by Ms. Austen. It seemed rather forced and there were parts that were downright unbelievable -- particularly when Darcy and Fitzwilliam are in London looking for information and the resolutions of each Mr. Collins' and Caroline's stories.
The end was very obviously rushed and very obviously set up a sequel (which I doubt I will read), and those two things made the ending pretty unsatisfying, I thought. All in all, it was, like I said, solidly okay. I would recommend it to people who like reading alternatives to stories that we know well, but I caution that it does not even come close to the original.
The end was very obviously rushed and very obviously set up a sequel (which I doubt I will read), and those two things made the ending pretty unsatisfying, I thought. All in all, it was, like I said, solidly okay. I would recommend it to people who like reading alternatives to stories that we know well, but I caution that it does not even come close to the original.
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