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Bewitched, Body and Soul: Miss Elizabeth Bennet
Determined to right a wrong against her family, Elizabeth ventures to town to reunite her sister with her lover. In so doing, will she end up losing her own heart?
Determined to discover the reason for Bingley's hasty departure from Netherfield, Elizabeth goes to town in Jane's stead. Her initial scheme having been thwarted and with nowhere else to go, she turns to one who is sure to put her in Bingley's path--Mr. Darcy.
Darcy realizes it will take more than time and distance to erase the memory of the beguiling country miss. When she arrives unescorted on his doorstep, will he help her? Or will he soon discover he is in grave danger of falling as much in love with her as ever before?
And what of his best friend's younger sister who has long had Darcy in her sights? Will Darcy pursue the young lady who meets Society's expectations of just what the next mistress of Pemberley ought to be or will he follow his heart?
Determined to discover the reason for Bingley's hasty departure from Netherfield, Elizabeth goes to town in Jane's stead. Her initial scheme having been thwarted and with nowhere else to go, she turns to one who is sure to put her in Bingley's path--Mr. Darcy.
Darcy realizes it will take more than time and distance to erase the memory of the beguiling country miss. When she arrives unescorted on his doorstep, will he help her? Or will he soon discover he is in grave danger of falling as much in love with her as ever before?
And what of his best friend's younger sister who has long had Darcy in her sights? Will Darcy pursue the young lady who meets Society's expectations of just what the next mistress of Pemberley ought to be or will he follow his heart?
165 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
48 people are currently reading
296 people want to read
About the author
P.O. Dixon
89 books170 followersP. O. Dixon has authored several Jane Austen "Pride and Prejudice" adaptations, all written with one overriding purpose in mind—falling in love with Darcy and Elizabeth. Sometimes provocative, but always entertaining, her stories have been read, commented on, and thoroughly enjoyed by thousands of readers worldwide.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
May 27, 2019
In reading some of the other reviews, the longer reviews, on Amazon, I have to agree with several points taken from various ones of those reviews. I agree that P.O. Dixon was creative in coming up with yet another way to vary the P&P story. The first twist is that Jane is depressed after Bingley leaves for London...followed by the rest of his party. She refuses to go to London on the chance she will meet him there. Her attitude is "he knows where I am and if he loves me he will seek me out". Elizabeth is very aggressive in her solution to this problem. She decides to go to London instead while keeping her reason to do so from Jane. She solicits Mary's support in caring for Jane in her depressed state and in keeping Elizabeth informed as to what is going on at home. Elizabeth is going to find and confront Bingley and determine if he does or if he does not love Jane…and let him know Jane loves him.
As other reviews tell us: Elizabeth is thwarted by Caroline Bingley, in that she claims he is not in London at all. She now does something very brash for Elizabeth much lest any woman in that age...she shows up alone, during a rain storm at Mr. Darcy's residence. This action is one that you almost want to grit your teeth about. What was she thinking? She didn't even have maidservant with her? He has shown up at his house unexpectedly and it is shut up with no servants other than the valet who travels with him. What happens at his home has some very scandalous possibilities and/or effect on their fates. Then there is Mr. Darcy's attitude towards any possibility of letting Bingley know that Jane loves him, which is another behavior I found hard to accept...especially as he has realized that he has feelings for Elizabeth, which he is determined to overcome.
Lady Susan, a distant relative through Aunt Gardiner, decides to introduce Elizabeth into society through some invitations and introductions. Ironically the one acquaintance she makes known to Elizabeth is Lady Gwendolyn and then her brother, Lord Latham. And to further muddy the situation is the fact that Lady Gwendolyn not only has her mind set on winning Darcy for her own but Darcy also is considering her as one of the only ladies he knows who would be suitable for the position as his wife. When all these parties show up at a house party in the country...along with the later arrival of Bingley, things come to a head and scandal looms as certain events in the recent past become known to others of ODC's acquaintance.
In this tale the trip to Rosings is included and the Wickham & Lydia debacle is not forgotten. We also get that bungled proposal…but not when and where you imagine.
The author uses some modern language, i.e., Elizabeth wants to kick herself. And her Elizabeth is not quite the Elizabeth in canon. She is more a modern woman who decides to take things into her own hands. Most of the characters, conversations and happenings are in this variation but, like stated by others, they are presented in a different order, with paraphrasing and with behaviors all of this author's own imagining.
This was a pleasant tale. There was little angst as we know our couple has their HEA. And this author kept it “sweet” for those who do not like scenes of physical intimacy, bedroom or otherwise.
8/20/19: I began listening to the Audible version while walking. Finished May 26, 2019
As other reviews tell us: Elizabeth is thwarted by Caroline Bingley, in that she claims he is not in London at all. She now does something very brash for Elizabeth much lest any woman in that age...she shows up alone, during a rain storm at Mr. Darcy's residence. This action is one that you almost want to grit your teeth about. What was she thinking? She didn't even have maidservant with her? He has shown up at his house unexpectedly and it is shut up with no servants other than the valet who travels with him. What happens at his home has some very scandalous possibilities and/or effect on their fates. Then there is Mr. Darcy's attitude towards any possibility of letting Bingley know that Jane loves him, which is another behavior I found hard to accept...especially as he has realized that he has feelings for Elizabeth, which he is determined to overcome.
Lady Susan, a distant relative through Aunt Gardiner, decides to introduce Elizabeth into society through some invitations and introductions. Ironically the one acquaintance she makes known to Elizabeth is Lady Gwendolyn and then her brother, Lord Latham. And to further muddy the situation is the fact that Lady Gwendolyn not only has her mind set on winning Darcy for her own but Darcy also is considering her as one of the only ladies he knows who would be suitable for the position as his wife. When all these parties show up at a house party in the country...along with the later arrival of Bingley, things come to a head and scandal looms as certain events in the recent past become known to others of ODC's acquaintance.
In this tale the trip to Rosings is included and the Wickham & Lydia debacle is not forgotten. We also get that bungled proposal…but not when and where you imagine.
The author uses some modern language, i.e., Elizabeth wants to kick herself. And her Elizabeth is not quite the Elizabeth in canon. She is more a modern woman who decides to take things into her own hands. Most of the characters, conversations and happenings are in this variation but, like stated by others, they are presented in a different order, with paraphrasing and with behaviors all of this author's own imagining.
This was a pleasant tale. There was little angst as we know our couple has their HEA. And this author kept it “sweet” for those who do not like scenes of physical intimacy, bedroom or otherwise.
8/20/19: I began listening to the Audible version while walking. Finished May 26, 2019
April 20, 2023
I've read the book on Scribd. My review may contain spoilers.
This felt like a battlefield of matchmaking.
Elizabeth suffers seeing her sister, Jane, heartbroken. Jane is not herself; she feels the humiliation of being abandoned by a man she loves, and everyone expected he would propose. Jane doesn’t want to go to London; if Mr. Bingley changes his mind, he knows where to find her. Elizabeth doesn’t agree with her sister and decides to go to London in Jane's place.
Fast forward: she meets Mr. Darcy (and in what a situation!) and speaks to him on her sister's behalf. Elizabeth is sure there is a misunderstanding, and once Mr. Bingley finds out that Jane really loves him, he will go back to her. Mr. Darcy is unmoved; he will not intervene in matters of the heart.
"The choice of a bride must be beneficial to both parties." (quote from the book)
Mrs. Gardiner has other plans for Elizabeth and presents her to a relation of hers, a widow named Lady Susan, who wishes to promote Elizabeth in the present Season in town.
"Caroline smirked. "I dare say our paths will not cross given we do not enjoy the same society."" (quote from the book)
We are introduced to new characters: Lord Trevor Helmsley, the Earl of Latham, his sister Lady Gwendolen, and the young widow Juliette, Duchess of Sexton. Lady Gwendolen befriends Elizabeth and organizes a party in the country where people can get to know each other and the Lady herself can spend more time in the company of Mr. Darcy.
"Lady Gwendolen was everything that a woman ought to be—everything the next mistress of Pemberley ought to be. Charming, intelligent, strikingly elegant. Indeed, she was everything ... except the woman he loved." (quote from the book)
“One, who is everything that is good; the other, who is everything of bad, and neither of whom is the woman I dream of whenever I close my eyes; neither is the one woman who threatened to capture my heart, had I remained in Hertfordshire. What a shame she is wholly unsuitable, owing to her low connections.” (quote from the book)
Lady Gwendolen doesn’t like the fact that her brother is in love with Juliette and tries to make him get to know Elizabeth (I suppose as a distraction, the Earl would have never married someone as unconnected as Elizabeth). Some rumors get into the possession of Lady Gwendolen that may ruin the happiness of Our Dear Couple and her happiness as well. Everything is not as Lady Gwendolen planned. Mr. Darcy focuses his attention only on Elizabeth, her brother tries to get accepted by the wrong woman; and she may host a fallen woman under her roof!! Who will win a proposal from Mr. Darcy?
I have to mention that, in all the books I read from this author, the characters were Out of Character.
I also recommend the book.
Spoilers ahead:
This felt like a battlefield of matchmaking.
Elizabeth suffers seeing her sister, Jane, heartbroken. Jane is not herself; she feels the humiliation of being abandoned by a man she loves, and everyone expected he would propose. Jane doesn’t want to go to London; if Mr. Bingley changes his mind, he knows where to find her. Elizabeth doesn’t agree with her sister and decides to go to London in Jane's place.
Fast forward: she meets Mr. Darcy (and in what a situation!) and speaks to him on her sister's behalf. Elizabeth is sure there is a misunderstanding, and once Mr. Bingley finds out that Jane really loves him, he will go back to her. Mr. Darcy is unmoved; he will not intervene in matters of the heart.
"The choice of a bride must be beneficial to both parties." (quote from the book)
Mrs. Gardiner has other plans for Elizabeth and presents her to a relation of hers, a widow named Lady Susan, who wishes to promote Elizabeth in the present Season in town.
"Caroline smirked. "I dare say our paths will not cross given we do not enjoy the same society."" (quote from the book)
We are introduced to new characters: Lord Trevor Helmsley, the Earl of Latham, his sister Lady Gwendolen, and the young widow Juliette, Duchess of Sexton. Lady Gwendolen befriends Elizabeth and organizes a party in the country where people can get to know each other and the Lady herself can spend more time in the company of Mr. Darcy.
"Lady Gwendolen was everything that a woman ought to be—everything the next mistress of Pemberley ought to be. Charming, intelligent, strikingly elegant. Indeed, she was everything ... except the woman he loved." (quote from the book)
“One, who is everything that is good; the other, who is everything of bad, and neither of whom is the woman I dream of whenever I close my eyes; neither is the one woman who threatened to capture my heart, had I remained in Hertfordshire. What a shame she is wholly unsuitable, owing to her low connections.” (quote from the book)
Lady Gwendolen doesn’t like the fact that her brother is in love with Juliette and tries to make him get to know Elizabeth (I suppose as a distraction, the Earl would have never married someone as unconnected as Elizabeth). Some rumors get into the possession of Lady Gwendolen that may ruin the happiness of Our Dear Couple and her happiness as well. Everything is not as Lady Gwendolen planned. Mr. Darcy focuses his attention only on Elizabeth, her brother tries to get accepted by the wrong woman; and she may host a fallen woman under her roof!! Who will win a proposal from Mr. Darcy?
I have to mention that, in all the books I read from this author, the characters were Out of Character.
I also recommend the book.
Spoilers ahead:
June 10, 2017
Novella, quick read, a slightly different bent, no sex, some angst
Our story starts with Jane’s disappointment after the Bingley party has left Netherfield. She has now received and is brooding over Caroline Bingley’s toxic letter which states they do not intend to return and of her hopes for an engagement between her brother and Miss Georgiana Darcy.
This is a different Jane than canon, more brooding, and despondent. This Jane checks out of the family and doesn’t become her old self again until chapter 12. It is hard to read as she mopes and droops around, not participating with family meals or activities. It just isn’t the Jane that we know and love, as she would never draw attention to herself. As the first born, she would not abandon her duties / responsibilities to her family [especially with Elizabeth gone] no matter what her feelings or emotions were. I cannot see her hole up in her room all day.
The whole point of Jane’s character is that her very demeanor was what made Mr. Darcy not think she was affected by Mr. Bingley’s attentions. Even Charlotte advised Lizzy that Jane should show her feelings if she liked Mr. Bingley. For her to NOW show and demonstrate those feelings seemed wrong. I gritted my teeth and read on knowing that it would end only when the resolution came about.
Mary, the forgotten Bennet sister, takes on a more important role in this version [since Jane checked out], that of confidant to Elizabeth. We see her mostly through her letters as she sends Elizabeth reports of what is going on in the family. I liked this Mary; you can have principles and morals without Bible bashing those around you. I liked seeing her more involved; however, not usurping Jane’s position.
Elizabeth, on the other hand is almost too bold and modern in her thinking and sensibilities. An angry or vengeful sister is a force to reckon with. Elizabeth wants…needs to know what happened that took Mr. Bingley away from Jane without an explanation. She heads to London with the Gardiners with the intentions of finding Mr. Bingley and confronting him. Her total lack of propriety on several occasions was over the top and not the Elizabeth from canon. In this story she didn’t care, she wanted what she wanted and that was that. Mr. Darcy even made that very comment about her to his sister. I had to work very hard to like her at times. She was too bold in places and not bold enough in others.
Mr. Darcy was even more ‘Darcy’ than canon. He was unapologetic in his actions, especially those that separated Bingley from Jane. “Despite Elizabeth’s words to the contrary, he was not persuaded one bit that Jane had fallen in love with his friend on an acquaintance of a few weeks.” Later, he muses, “How might I in good conscience encourage such an alliance merely borne out of an affection of only a few weeks?” And yet, within that same time period he himself had engaged his affections for Elizabeth. We watch him fight his inclinations toward loving Miss Elizabeth with more force in this version, or possibly we are more aware of it as we spend time in his head as he wrestles with his feelings.
I was appalled that there were NO servants at Darcy House when Elizabeth called. I know the author wanted to have them alone…but, this was too much…and then to have her fall ill and faint into his arms. The social implications, the morals and decency of the time period, so ingrained in Darcy and Elizabeth were completely overlooked. She was compromised the minute she walked to his door, and she allowed her carriage to leave her without first seeing if Miss Darcy was in residence. What was she thinking?
A lot of the action is handled off sight and we only hear about it through letters or dialogue. I especially liked the letter exchange between Charlotte Lucas-Collins and Elizabeth.
The Wickham scandal was handled within a few pages. That was OK… Lydia’s exuberance can only be tolerated in small doses. Mrs. Bennet’s dislike of Elizabeth is more prominent. There is a comment stating that Mrs. Bennet’s least favorite daughter is marrying her least favorite man in the world. How telling is that? Mrs. Bennet made no apologies for her actions as she attempted to secure marriages for her daughters.
There were a lot of new characters to like or dislike. At times their purpose seemed to be nothing more than to push our story along. Their actions often forced our characters to respond or make declarations that they might not have done otherwise. I would like to see more of them in their own story. But, then a few characters…I wondered at their purpose and why there were pages given to them.
The resolutions came too quickly. That is the fault of this being a novella. You cannot condense JA’s P&P within the confines of a novella. You have to pick and choose those essential parts and concentrate on them. You do an injustice to your story otherwise.
I liked the story line. I read it twice. There were minimal edit problems, left off articles, word replacements, or words left out, etc. I did have problems reading the dialogue. As dialogue transitioned between multiple characters, it was hard to keep track of who was talking. Also, movement transitions were not smooth. As a reader I often felt the jolt of being in one place only to be thrust somewhere else without proper transition or stage direction. Despite these minor problems, I enjoyed the story and intend to read more from this author.
This was a free book from the author and is an honest review.
Our story starts with Jane’s disappointment after the Bingley party has left Netherfield. She has now received and is brooding over Caroline Bingley’s toxic letter which states they do not intend to return and of her hopes for an engagement between her brother and Miss Georgiana Darcy.
This is a different Jane than canon, more brooding, and despondent. This Jane checks out of the family and doesn’t become her old self again until chapter 12. It is hard to read as she mopes and droops around, not participating with family meals or activities. It just isn’t the Jane that we know and love, as she would never draw attention to herself. As the first born, she would not abandon her duties / responsibilities to her family [especially with Elizabeth gone] no matter what her feelings or emotions were. I cannot see her hole up in her room all day.
The whole point of Jane’s character is that her very demeanor was what made Mr. Darcy not think she was affected by Mr. Bingley’s attentions. Even Charlotte advised Lizzy that Jane should show her feelings if she liked Mr. Bingley. For her to NOW show and demonstrate those feelings seemed wrong. I gritted my teeth and read on knowing that it would end only when the resolution came about.
Mary, the forgotten Bennet sister, takes on a more important role in this version [since Jane checked out], that of confidant to Elizabeth. We see her mostly through her letters as she sends Elizabeth reports of what is going on in the family. I liked this Mary; you can have principles and morals without Bible bashing those around you. I liked seeing her more involved; however, not usurping Jane’s position.
Elizabeth, on the other hand is almost too bold and modern in her thinking and sensibilities. An angry or vengeful sister is a force to reckon with. Elizabeth wants…needs to know what happened that took Mr. Bingley away from Jane without an explanation. She heads to London with the Gardiners with the intentions of finding Mr. Bingley and confronting him. Her total lack of propriety on several occasions was over the top and not the Elizabeth from canon. In this story she didn’t care, she wanted what she wanted and that was that. Mr. Darcy even made that very comment about her to his sister. I had to work very hard to like her at times. She was too bold in places and not bold enough in others.
Mr. Darcy was even more ‘Darcy’ than canon. He was unapologetic in his actions, especially those that separated Bingley from Jane. “Despite Elizabeth’s words to the contrary, he was not persuaded one bit that Jane had fallen in love with his friend on an acquaintance of a few weeks.” Later, he muses, “How might I in good conscience encourage such an alliance merely borne out of an affection of only a few weeks?” And yet, within that same time period he himself had engaged his affections for Elizabeth. We watch him fight his inclinations toward loving Miss Elizabeth with more force in this version, or possibly we are more aware of it as we spend time in his head as he wrestles with his feelings.
I was appalled that there were NO servants at Darcy House when Elizabeth called. I know the author wanted to have them alone…but, this was too much…and then to have her fall ill and faint into his arms. The social implications, the morals and decency of the time period, so ingrained in Darcy and Elizabeth were completely overlooked. She was compromised the minute she walked to his door, and she allowed her carriage to leave her without first seeing if Miss Darcy was in residence. What was she thinking?
A lot of the action is handled off sight and we only hear about it through letters or dialogue. I especially liked the letter exchange between Charlotte Lucas-Collins and Elizabeth.
The Wickham scandal was handled within a few pages. That was OK… Lydia’s exuberance can only be tolerated in small doses. Mrs. Bennet’s dislike of Elizabeth is more prominent. There is a comment stating that Mrs. Bennet’s least favorite daughter is marrying her least favorite man in the world. How telling is that? Mrs. Bennet made no apologies for her actions as she attempted to secure marriages for her daughters.
There were a lot of new characters to like or dislike. At times their purpose seemed to be nothing more than to push our story along. Their actions often forced our characters to respond or make declarations that they might not have done otherwise. I would like to see more of them in their own story. But, then a few characters…I wondered at their purpose and why there were pages given to them.
The resolutions came too quickly. That is the fault of this being a novella. You cannot condense JA’s P&P within the confines of a novella. You have to pick and choose those essential parts and concentrate on them. You do an injustice to your story otherwise.
I liked the story line. I read it twice. There were minimal edit problems, left off articles, word replacements, or words left out, etc. I did have problems reading the dialogue. As dialogue transitioned between multiple characters, it was hard to keep track of who was talking. Also, movement transitions were not smooth. As a reader I often felt the jolt of being in one place only to be thrust somewhere else without proper transition or stage direction. Despite these minor problems, I enjoyed the story and intend to read more from this author.
This was a free book from the author and is an honest review.
July 3, 2016
P.O. Dixon is one of the JAFF authors I have read the most. I may have read around 80% of her writing, that is quite extensive, and I keep liking everything she writes.
Bewitched, body and soul is one of my favourites by P.O. Dixon, I have just reread it to write this review. In this book you can see the strong willed Elizabeth Bennet who goes to town in order to look for Mr. Bingley and tell him or make him understand that her sister Jane is in love with him.
She is not very successful because she encounters Miss Bingley and also Mr. Darcy but there is no way of finding her sister’s heart’s desire. Jane Bennet is not the same one as she was since he left the neighbourhood, she rarely is in company of her family members and she does not even dares to go to Meryton.
Elizabeth is determined and after going to Mr. Bingley’s house and have no success on seeing him, she decides to go to Mr. Darcy’s house to seek assistance from the serious and haughty friend of Bingley. You can imagine how inappropriate was this visit for two reasons: she was unchaperoned and he was the only person in his house. They are totally alone and she collapses due to a temporal illness. He takes care of her and she wakes up in the mistress’ bedroom without recalling any event from the previous night.
She is ill but as she is a headstrong girl, she flees from Darcy House to her relatives. She is fuming and very angry with Darcy for two reasons, again: he does not want to help her regarding her sister’s relationship with Bingley and she realises the unladylike behaviour she had going to the house of an unmarried man.
However, she has seen a different man, still a bit arrogant but caring as well. She is a bit confused but avoids thinking about it. At this point Elizabeth is “indifferent” to Mr. Darcy or that is what she wants to believe but there is already something not clear for her.
What must it be like seeing him again? Elizabeth frowned. Why am I always thinking of him?
Elizabeth’s aunt, Mrs. Gardiner, has a family member, Lady Susan, that wants to be like a sponsor for Elizabeth. Elizabeth accepts with the hope of finding Mr. Bingley in any social event during the Season. Among other people, Lady Susan introduces Lady Gwendolen Helmsley to Elizabeth and they get on well with each other.
Lady Gwendolen is the sister of one of Mr. Darcy’s oldest friends and she is hoping to catch Mr. Darcy, she fancies herself in love with him. She is actually quite nice until she sees some rivalry and tries to overcome it. This rivalry is seen during the getaway in her country house and the person that seems to get Mr. Darcy’s attention is her new friend Elizabeth Bennet. Lady Gwendolen is not happy and seeks, as usual when Darcy is concerned, help from his brother.
Rumours can destroy the reputation of a person and even more if those rumours point to a fallen woman, Elizabeth Bennet… When Darcy is informed about those gossips he is as usual, honourable and asks Elizabeth to marry him, to placate the malicious reports and also because he loves Elizabeth.
Nevertheless, Elizabeth refuses him! why? on what account she refuses the person who wants to protect her and claims a profound admiration and love for her?
Does Elizabeth see Mr. Bingley? When and where do they meet again (both Charles and Jane and Elizabeth and Darcy)? Do they solve their problems? Lady Catherine is going to be around, how will she behave? Is Wickham going to make an appearance as usual or not?
Read the book and see what else is happening to the eternal Darcy and Elizabeth.
A teaser to get you into the book:
“I must confess I am relieved to hear it. I had not put the matter completely out of my mind.”
“Trust me, Miss Elizabeth, I am relieved, as well, much more than you know.”
“Why is that, sir?”
“Because, the next time I offer you my hand in marriage, I intend to go about it entirely differently.”
4.5 stars our of 5
Bewitched, body and soul is one of my favourites by P.O. Dixon, I have just reread it to write this review. In this book you can see the strong willed Elizabeth Bennet who goes to town in order to look for Mr. Bingley and tell him or make him understand that her sister Jane is in love with him.
She is not very successful because she encounters Miss Bingley and also Mr. Darcy but there is no way of finding her sister’s heart’s desire. Jane Bennet is not the same one as she was since he left the neighbourhood, she rarely is in company of her family members and she does not even dares to go to Meryton.
Elizabeth is determined and after going to Mr. Bingley’s house and have no success on seeing him, she decides to go to Mr. Darcy’s house to seek assistance from the serious and haughty friend of Bingley. You can imagine how inappropriate was this visit for two reasons: she was unchaperoned and he was the only person in his house. They are totally alone and she collapses due to a temporal illness. He takes care of her and she wakes up in the mistress’ bedroom without recalling any event from the previous night.
She is ill but as she is a headstrong girl, she flees from Darcy House to her relatives. She is fuming and very angry with Darcy for two reasons, again: he does not want to help her regarding her sister’s relationship with Bingley and she realises the unladylike behaviour she had going to the house of an unmarried man.
However, she has seen a different man, still a bit arrogant but caring as well. She is a bit confused but avoids thinking about it. At this point Elizabeth is “indifferent” to Mr. Darcy or that is what she wants to believe but there is already something not clear for her.
What must it be like seeing him again? Elizabeth frowned. Why am I always thinking of him?
Elizabeth’s aunt, Mrs. Gardiner, has a family member, Lady Susan, that wants to be like a sponsor for Elizabeth. Elizabeth accepts with the hope of finding Mr. Bingley in any social event during the Season. Among other people, Lady Susan introduces Lady Gwendolen Helmsley to Elizabeth and they get on well with each other.
Lady Gwendolen is the sister of one of Mr. Darcy’s oldest friends and she is hoping to catch Mr. Darcy, she fancies herself in love with him. She is actually quite nice until she sees some rivalry and tries to overcome it. This rivalry is seen during the getaway in her country house and the person that seems to get Mr. Darcy’s attention is her new friend Elizabeth Bennet. Lady Gwendolen is not happy and seeks, as usual when Darcy is concerned, help from his brother.
Rumours can destroy the reputation of a person and even more if those rumours point to a fallen woman, Elizabeth Bennet… When Darcy is informed about those gossips he is as usual, honourable and asks Elizabeth to marry him, to placate the malicious reports and also because he loves Elizabeth.
Nevertheless, Elizabeth refuses him! why? on what account she refuses the person who wants to protect her and claims a profound admiration and love for her?
Does Elizabeth see Mr. Bingley? When and where do they meet again (both Charles and Jane and Elizabeth and Darcy)? Do they solve their problems? Lady Catherine is going to be around, how will she behave? Is Wickham going to make an appearance as usual or not?
Read the book and see what else is happening to the eternal Darcy and Elizabeth.
A teaser to get you into the book:
“I must confess I am relieved to hear it. I had not put the matter completely out of my mind.”
“Trust me, Miss Elizabeth, I am relieved, as well, much more than you know.”
“Why is that, sir?”
“Because, the next time I offer you my hand in marriage, I intend to go about it entirely differently.”
4.5 stars our of 5
October 29, 2012
In her latest Pride and Prejudice alternate path, P. O. Dixon asks the question: What if Jane was too dejected to follow Bingley to London? What if Jane lost hope, lost her spirit, and was in the process of losing herself...
Elizabeth, filled with anxiety and concern, takes Jane's place in London determined to find Mr. Bingley and tell him of her poor, lovelorn sister's state. She is certain that this misunderstanding is the result of Mr. Bingley's pernicious sister and her self-serving manipulations! Elizabeth will not let Caroline Bingley, Mr. Darcy, or the bounds of decorum get in her way...
While I applaud and admire P. O. Dixon for creating so daring a divergent path for Darcy and Elizabeth to traverse, I must admit to finding bits of the premise a little implausible. (You all know I can suspend my disbelief and that I'm relatively open-minded when it comes to Pride and Prejudice variations and alternate paths). However, as much as I tried, there were some elements of this novel that I just couldn't get behind, such as Jane Bennet – for her to be so bitter, sullen, and absorbed in her own pain seemed too drastic a personality alternation. She was almost unrecognizable. Moreover, other aspects like Elizabeth naïvely thinking Darcy had nothing to with Bingley's departure, Darcy forced to intimately tend to Elizabeth when she falls ill, and Darcy being so immovable to Elizabeth's requests (even after he acknowledges his feelings for her) asked me to suspend my disbelief a little too much.
To continue reading, go to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
Elizabeth, filled with anxiety and concern, takes Jane's place in London determined to find Mr. Bingley and tell him of her poor, lovelorn sister's state. She is certain that this misunderstanding is the result of Mr. Bingley's pernicious sister and her self-serving manipulations! Elizabeth will not let Caroline Bingley, Mr. Darcy, or the bounds of decorum get in her way...
While I applaud and admire P. O. Dixon for creating so daring a divergent path for Darcy and Elizabeth to traverse, I must admit to finding bits of the premise a little implausible. (You all know I can suspend my disbelief and that I'm relatively open-minded when it comes to Pride and Prejudice variations and alternate paths). However, as much as I tried, there were some elements of this novel that I just couldn't get behind, such as Jane Bennet – for her to be so bitter, sullen, and absorbed in her own pain seemed too drastic a personality alternation. She was almost unrecognizable. Moreover, other aspects like Elizabeth naïvely thinking Darcy had nothing to with Bingley's departure, Darcy forced to intimately tend to Elizabeth when she falls ill, and Darcy being so immovable to Elizabeth's requests (even after he acknowledges his feelings for her) asked me to suspend my disbelief a little too much.
To continue reading, go to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
September 24, 2013
This is a strange p & P variation. I would describe it as P & P in a blender, because many things happen out of order. It begins with a seriously depressed Jane in December after the Netherfield party has returned to London.
This Jane is melancholy to an extreme that belies her sweet disposition in the original book. In an effort to alleviate her suffering Lizzy travels in her stead to London with the Gardiners and proceeds to Mr. Darcy's town home to plead Jane's case. Like her sister she has caught a chill in the rain and ends up spending the night at Darcy's home.
When she returns to the Gardiners is introduced to Lady Susan a widowed relative of Mrs. Gardiners; you know the one who lives in Cheapside. Anyway Lizzy will be accompanying Lady Susan to society functions. So Lizzy is introduced to an young Lady who serves no purpose to the story except to adore Darcy.
Everything in this story seems rushed and often disconnected. Lizzy hates Darcy, hates Darcy, hates Darcy, loves Darcy with little having happened to change her mind. The story is compressed so that they are engaged in April. The only character significantly improved in this version is Georgiana.
This Jane is melancholy to an extreme that belies her sweet disposition in the original book. In an effort to alleviate her suffering Lizzy travels in her stead to London with the Gardiners and proceeds to Mr. Darcy's town home to plead Jane's case. Like her sister she has caught a chill in the rain and ends up spending the night at Darcy's home.
When she returns to the Gardiners is introduced to Lady Susan a widowed relative of Mrs. Gardiners; you know the one who lives in Cheapside. Anyway Lizzy will be accompanying Lady Susan to society functions. So Lizzy is introduced to an young Lady who serves no purpose to the story except to adore Darcy.
Everything in this story seems rushed and often disconnected. Lizzy hates Darcy, hates Darcy, hates Darcy, loves Darcy with little having happened to change her mind. The story is compressed so that they are engaged in April. The only character significantly improved in this version is Georgiana.
July 25, 2021
My favorite kind of Jane Austen fanfiction is a retelling with a different perspective or a modified storyline. The first half of this book was just that… it took a unique spin on events and the characters. But then the last half of the book fell back into basically a regurgitation of the original, just out of order and I found myself skimming. It was a quick light read and I got to have a bit of a Darcy fix!
June 17, 2012
(I'm hosting a giveaway of this title through July 7th, 2012. Stop by my blog to enter: http://calicocritic.blogspot.com/2012...)
In Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Miss Elizabeth Bennet comes from a modest family of five sisters. Her most dear sibling Jane develops an affection for the delightful and wealthy Charles Bingley, who is obviously far above her in the social strata. His close friend, the sometimes haughty Fitzwilliam Darcy, feels it is in Charles’ best interest to not become involved with the lovely yet middle-class Jane Bennet and takes measures to keep them apart.
In Bewitched, Body and Soul, author P.O. Dixon develops Austen’s original plot in similar and entirely new ways. Miss Elizabeth discovers Darcy’s efforts to thwart this budding romantic relationship and is horrified at his assumptions and interference. Seeing Jane’s dejected state of mind, she takes it upon herself to call on Mr. Darcy to try to right the wrong he has done. Unfortunately, she is caught in a rainstorm and is forced to spend more solitary time with Darcy than she had ever intended.
P.O. Dixon’s novel may be a brief one at only 165 pages, but what it lacks in length it makes up for in quality. The writing is superb, balancing modern readability with period customs and turns of phrase. The characterization of these classic figures is just perfect; the choices made in this incarnation of Austen’s world could easily have been made in the original work. And while the plot choices were very reasonable for the genre, I was kept guessing in between the established beginning and the expected outcomes.
I also appreciated Dixon’s choice in keeping things very chaste in her romantic scenes. There is certainly more detail than was given in Austen’s original work, but compared to many Austenesque novels in today’s market, this one is decidedly clean. Bewitched, Body and Soul may have a sultry title, but in its world, the ultimate gentleman not only feels great passion, but he is devoted enough to his future bride to keep it in check until the appointed time.
Bewitched, Body and Soul cannot be recommended highly enough. I have given it a rare five-star review here on Goodreads. My only complaint for this novel would be that I wish it had been longer. Dixon could easily have spent more time with Jane, Bingley and Caroline, giving us more of her excellent storytelling. This was my first exposure to her writing, and I’m eagerly looking forward to reading more of her. I offer my highest praise to P.O. Dixon, and congratulate her on a fabulous work of Austenesque fiction.
In Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Miss Elizabeth Bennet comes from a modest family of five sisters. Her most dear sibling Jane develops an affection for the delightful and wealthy Charles Bingley, who is obviously far above her in the social strata. His close friend, the sometimes haughty Fitzwilliam Darcy, feels it is in Charles’ best interest to not become involved with the lovely yet middle-class Jane Bennet and takes measures to keep them apart.
In Bewitched, Body and Soul, author P.O. Dixon develops Austen’s original plot in similar and entirely new ways. Miss Elizabeth discovers Darcy’s efforts to thwart this budding romantic relationship and is horrified at his assumptions and interference. Seeing Jane’s dejected state of mind, she takes it upon herself to call on Mr. Darcy to try to right the wrong he has done. Unfortunately, she is caught in a rainstorm and is forced to spend more solitary time with Darcy than she had ever intended.
P.O. Dixon’s novel may be a brief one at only 165 pages, but what it lacks in length it makes up for in quality. The writing is superb, balancing modern readability with period customs and turns of phrase. The characterization of these classic figures is just perfect; the choices made in this incarnation of Austen’s world could easily have been made in the original work. And while the plot choices were very reasonable for the genre, I was kept guessing in between the established beginning and the expected outcomes.
I also appreciated Dixon’s choice in keeping things very chaste in her romantic scenes. There is certainly more detail than was given in Austen’s original work, but compared to many Austenesque novels in today’s market, this one is decidedly clean. Bewitched, Body and Soul may have a sultry title, but in its world, the ultimate gentleman not only feels great passion, but he is devoted enough to his future bride to keep it in check until the appointed time.
Bewitched, Body and Soul cannot be recommended highly enough. I have given it a rare five-star review here on Goodreads. My only complaint for this novel would be that I wish it had been longer. Dixon could easily have spent more time with Jane, Bingley and Caroline, giving us more of her excellent storytelling. This was my first exposure to her writing, and I’m eagerly looking forward to reading more of her. I offer my highest praise to P.O. Dixon, and congratulate her on a fabulous work of Austenesque fiction.
July 18, 2012
I found this an interesting read as it changed every scene that could have unfolded in P&P following the Netherfield Ball but still kept to some of the same locations - example.. the visit to Kent still occurs but by then its clear that Elizabeth is not opposed to Darcy... Elizabeth learns the true about Wickham but not from a letter... Darcy initial proposal is refused but offered for different reasons.. And at the start instead of Jane going to London to stay with her aunt and uncle, Elizabeth goes. I couldn't see forsee Jane shutting out her sisters like she did so I quickly got over it and read on. After an unsuccessful attempt to see Charles personally, Elizabeth heads to Darcy's townhome in London to beg him to talk to Charles. He refuses to assist which didn't surprise me but what did surprise me is that he didn't think Jane had feelings for Charles even though Elizabeth was very direct that Jane loved him (why wouldn't he believe her when he does in P&P when Elizabeth tells him not so directly the same thing?). The next morning Elizabeth wakes up in Darcys home under the care of his sister as she suffered a fever the night before with no recollection of what really happened. However, tongues do wag so you are sure this will come later on in the book and so it does! Elizabeth returns to the Gardiners and accepts an invitation to stay with Lady Susan who will take her to balls and introduce her into a new circle in London to which Elizabeth agrees just for the sole purpose of running into Bingley. I didn't really think that Elizabeth would want to be around town as though she was on her debut but so the story goes. She ends up meeting Darcy again and again and accepts an invitation to spend a week in the same home as him where she is soon considered to be a rival to Lady Gwendolen for Darcy's affections. Fun P&P version! Note the word "fun" - if you take yourself too seriously when reading this book you may not like it thinking Darcy or Elizabeth would never do that - so sit back, relax and enjoy it! Don't think too deeply about it! I did find it diverting!
June 16, 2012
I believe I'm becoming a fan of P.O.Dixon, her books get better as I go. This novella starts out after the Netherfield Ball when Bingley and his party leave for London. Jane is so melancoly that she does not wish to go to London to stay with the Gardners so instead Elizabeth does with a purpose in mind to seek out Mr Bingley and find out what happened. Of course she ends up trying to get Darcy's help which he refuses. Of course it is not a simple request, Lizzy ends up at Darcy House and it goes sort of badly anyway this puts a little fly in the ointment for Darcy who is trying to forget Elizabeth. Elizabeth ends up being sort of a companion to a friend of Mrs Gardner's, Lady Susan and therefore she ends up at events where Darcy is at. The story continues to progress with trials and misunderstanding and of course a bad proposal with bad results. This novella has it all and it was quite diverting. If you are a stickler for regency cannon being adhered to than I would pass but your missing out on a wonderful story. I just loved it. Well worth reading!!!!
August 18, 2012
What happens when Elizabeth Bennet's propensity for impropriety takes a turn for her worst?
PO Dixon has written a compelling story of Elizabeth and Darcy's tempestuous and misguided relational attraction. Elizabeth decides to accept the Gardiner's invite to London in order to confront Bingley, on behalf of her sister Jane, regarding the love lost between them. Unfortunately, her best laid plans go badly astray, and we're invited into the suspense of what happens along the way!
Some introduction of new entities and relational twists add to the diversions, but all lead to the satisfying conclusion we're hoping for. Elizabeth and Darcy have their say with the likes of Catherine de Bourghe and we're gratified in the process :)
Not a lengthy read at 165 pages, so definitely a great novel to pick up knowing you'll be well into the story in no time... Thx PO for a great weekend diversion!
Another great addition to my Austen in August participation at Roof Beam Reader's Challenge [2012]
PO Dixon has written a compelling story of Elizabeth and Darcy's tempestuous and misguided relational attraction. Elizabeth decides to accept the Gardiner's invite to London in order to confront Bingley, on behalf of her sister Jane, regarding the love lost between them. Unfortunately, her best laid plans go badly astray, and we're invited into the suspense of what happens along the way!
Some introduction of new entities and relational twists add to the diversions, but all lead to the satisfying conclusion we're hoping for. Elizabeth and Darcy have their say with the likes of Catherine de Bourghe and we're gratified in the process :)
Not a lengthy read at 165 pages, so definitely a great novel to pick up knowing you'll be well into the story in no time... Thx PO for a great weekend diversion!
Another great addition to my Austen in August participation at Roof Beam Reader's Challenge [2012]
November 11, 2017
I'm afraid this wasn't a favorite for me. I've read a couple other Dixon books that I thought were better than this one though. I was okay with the "what if" concept but I kind of felt like too much of the book was a synopsis of the original P&P. It did have new characters in it but I wasn't all that interested in them. I couldn't figure out why no servants would be in residence before Darcy arrives at his home. I would think at least a skeleton crew would be there year round so that part of the story didn't really work for me.
I liked that Mary played more a part of the story but felt like Jane was a non-entity. And even though I finished the book earlier today, I have already forgotten much about it. This one isn't going to stick in my head or my heart. So if you want to read a Dixon book I'd recommend By Reason, by Reflection, by Everything: A Pride and Prejudice Variation over this one.
Mostly clean but some innuendo at the end with a description of the beginning of their wedding night.
I liked that Mary played more a part of the story but felt like Jane was a non-entity. And even though I finished the book earlier today, I have already forgotten much about it. This one isn't going to stick in my head or my heart. So if you want to read a Dixon book I'd recommend By Reason, by Reflection, by Everything: A Pride and Prejudice Variation over this one.
Mostly clean but some innuendo at the end with a description of the beginning of their wedding night.
August 28, 2015
Not terrible but not thrilling. A mediocre variation in my opinion. It reads easily enough, especially at the start and the first half, but then everything from the failed proposal and afterward feels rushed and slightly improbable, particularly the requisite transformation in Mr. Darcy. The characters are a little 2 dimensional.
January 15, 2024
Read for 2nd time.
June 19, 2021
As a big fan of Pride and Prejudice these re-imaginings can be troublesome but this is one of the best I have come across. Very well written with a similar style to the original, excellent storyline and believable dialogue. I was really involved with the characters who stick quite close to the original. This retelling picks the story up about half way through add some excellent scenes and situations without damaging the essence of the original. Pearl Hewitt does a wonderful job with the narration giving each character there own identity and voice. To me nothing can ever be as good as Jane Austen's classic but this one is a excellent rework. I received a complimentary copy from Storyorigin and am leaving an honest voluntary review.
July 6, 2017
This book was a lot of fun to read and I enjoyed seeing the story twist that P.O. Dixon used and how she wrote all the different characters as well as meeting a few new characters. I thought the story was well done and that the author did a good job of bringing the reader into the story and breathing life into her characters. I look forward to reading more Austenesque books by P.O. Dixon in the future.
February 14, 2021
Jane is depressed and Elizabeth decides to go to London to try and seek Bingley out. She gets into a potentially scandalous situation at the Darcy house, befriends a connection of Mrs. Gardiner's who wants to introduce Elizabeth in her circles, and attends a houseparty given by Darcy's friends.
I quite enjoyed this one.
I quite enjoyed this one.
May 19, 2021
Honest review for review copy.
I'm not sure what it was about this, but I had a hard time getting through the book. The narrator was too wispy and "woe is me." The storyline didn't feel complete and felt very rushed.
I will not be looking for further titles written by the author, nor narrator's "performances."
I'm not sure what it was about this, but I had a hard time getting through the book. The narrator was too wispy and "woe is me." The storyline didn't feel complete and felt very rushed.
I will not be looking for further titles written by the author, nor narrator's "performances."
November 14, 2023
Brazen and unrepentant, Elizabeth was beyond the pale, but it's brilliant in that she is brazen and unrepentant. It was a struggle for Darcy accept his wants and wishes. It was a greater struggle to not want him to accept himself, as characters throughout histories have done before. It was both amusing and annoying. An interesting premise and a new way to make the couple come to the point.
November 2, 2024
I enjoyed the Pride and Prejudice variation. This story takes Elizabeth to London after Mr. Bingley leaves Netherfield. She wants to find out why and along with her pursuits, encounters Mr. Darcy. I enjoyed Elizabeth's determination in helping her sister Jane and at the same time learning more about Mr. Darcy and his sister Georgianna. I highly recommend this for all JAFF lovers.
July 7, 2017
A delightful period romance updated
This book was en easy and engaging read. It was enjoyable to read the formality of their speaking and manners. There was not enough historical detail to bog down a reader who doesn't care for such, although I do.
This book was en easy and engaging read. It was enjoyable to read the formality of their speaking and manners. There was not enough historical detail to bog down a reader who doesn't care for such, although I do.
July 22, 2021
The idea seemed interesting and I liked that there were several directions that the story could go. But instead the story seemed to go back to the path of the original with a few variations. several conversations felt quoted word for word.
The narration is good.
The narration is good.
August 1, 2023
This book is so easy to read and such a joy.
The variations from the original storyline and the introduction of some new characters gives us a refreshing change without spoiling the essence of the story overall.
It’s a lovely book. Enjoy.
The variations from the original storyline and the introduction of some new characters gives us a refreshing change without spoiling the essence of the story overall.
It’s a lovely book. Enjoy.
December 7, 2012
With the amount of Jane Austen fan fiction writers that write “what if” variations, you’d think that by now they would be running short on new scenarios. Thankfully, new and imaginative writers keep entering this genre and introduce new variations on our favorite old classic. P.O. Dixon is one of these fresh new faces. I was first introduced to this creative woman when I heard of a novel that had mixed Arthurian legend with our favorite characters of Pride and Prejudice. He Taught Me to Hope was this novel, and after reading it, I’ve been a fan of Dixon ever since. Knowing how creative Dixon could be, I couldn’t wait to read her latest installment, Bewitched, Body and Soul: Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
After attending the ball at Netherfield Park, Jane Bennet’s heart is completely won over by the amiable and charming Mr. Bingley. When he promptly departs for London without much explanation, she is deeply depressed, feeling the loss of any chance she had at happiness in life. Her sister Elizabeth, genuinely disturbed over her sister’s sudden emotional change, decides that she must do something about it. She travels to Town to spend the holidays with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner, although it is merely a ruse for her true purpose: to find Bingley and discover why he left Netherfield in the first place. Her search for Bingley leads her first to Mr. Darcy’s townhouse in the hopes that he will provide a measure of assistance in her search. Unfortunately for Elizabeth, Darcy flatly refuses and turns her out. To make matters worse, a sudden rainstorm drenches her and she falls ill at Darcy’s home. Sick with fever, Lizzie almost faints and Darcy rushes to save her. Will this sudden turn of events cause a shift in Darcy’s attitude towards Lizzy? What will become of Jane and Bingley?
While readers of Pride and Prejudice all know the outcomes to my questions above, the path to get there is long and filled with moments of despair, hope, and tender goodness. I truly enjoyed seeing all of the interesting new scenarios that Dixon came up with. She created varying scenes that allowed us to learn the tumultuous nature of Lizzy and Darcy’s individual minds as they struggled to come to terms with their changing feelings for each other. Dixon executed the description of Darcy’s riotous mind flawlessly—so in tune with him throughout the whole novel—that it only aided in my ability to connect with him as a character. The turmoil that Elizabeth feels at not being able to help her sister Jane in her time of need is also conveyed to perfection. As someone who has a sister myself, the storyline was extremely relatable, adding much to the work. I also have to give Dixon two thumbs way up for giving Mr. Darcy’s little sister Georgiana such a crucial part in the plot. I’m a big fan of authors who give her a voice and a bigger role!
On the other hand, the biggest problem I had with the last Dixon novel I read (He Taught Me to Hope, you can read my review here) was that there were some plot holes left open and unfinished at the end of the novel. This left me feeling slightly unsettled at the conclusion of the work. I’m happy to say that this is not the case with Bewitched. Everything ties together nicely, leaving the reader satisfied that all is as it should be with the Darcys.
Dixon has created a new variation of a classic favorite that is just as romantic and engaging as the original. In all, I foresee Dixon becoming more and more popular as people begin to discover her creative literary voice. I urge you to begin discovering her works on your own as they will be a delight to read.
Kimberly (Reflections of a Book Addict)
http://wp.me/p18lIL-1md
After attending the ball at Netherfield Park, Jane Bennet’s heart is completely won over by the amiable and charming Mr. Bingley. When he promptly departs for London without much explanation, she is deeply depressed, feeling the loss of any chance she had at happiness in life. Her sister Elizabeth, genuinely disturbed over her sister’s sudden emotional change, decides that she must do something about it. She travels to Town to spend the holidays with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner, although it is merely a ruse for her true purpose: to find Bingley and discover why he left Netherfield in the first place. Her search for Bingley leads her first to Mr. Darcy’s townhouse in the hopes that he will provide a measure of assistance in her search. Unfortunately for Elizabeth, Darcy flatly refuses and turns her out. To make matters worse, a sudden rainstorm drenches her and she falls ill at Darcy’s home. Sick with fever, Lizzie almost faints and Darcy rushes to save her. Will this sudden turn of events cause a shift in Darcy’s attitude towards Lizzy? What will become of Jane and Bingley?
While readers of Pride and Prejudice all know the outcomes to my questions above, the path to get there is long and filled with moments of despair, hope, and tender goodness. I truly enjoyed seeing all of the interesting new scenarios that Dixon came up with. She created varying scenes that allowed us to learn the tumultuous nature of Lizzy and Darcy’s individual minds as they struggled to come to terms with their changing feelings for each other. Dixon executed the description of Darcy’s riotous mind flawlessly—so in tune with him throughout the whole novel—that it only aided in my ability to connect with him as a character. The turmoil that Elizabeth feels at not being able to help her sister Jane in her time of need is also conveyed to perfection. As someone who has a sister myself, the storyline was extremely relatable, adding much to the work. I also have to give Dixon two thumbs way up for giving Mr. Darcy’s little sister Georgiana such a crucial part in the plot. I’m a big fan of authors who give her a voice and a bigger role!
On the other hand, the biggest problem I had with the last Dixon novel I read (He Taught Me to Hope, you can read my review here) was that there were some plot holes left open and unfinished at the end of the novel. This left me feeling slightly unsettled at the conclusion of the work. I’m happy to say that this is not the case with Bewitched. Everything ties together nicely, leaving the reader satisfied that all is as it should be with the Darcys.
Dixon has created a new variation of a classic favorite that is just as romantic and engaging as the original. In all, I foresee Dixon becoming more and more popular as people begin to discover her creative literary voice. I urge you to begin discovering her works on your own as they will be a delight to read.
Kimberly (Reflections of a Book Addict)
http://wp.me/p18lIL-1md
July 20, 2012
P.O. Dixon’s novel reveals what happens when Elizabeth Bennet sets out for London, determined to discover the real reason behind Mr. Bingley’s precipitate leaving of Netherfield. What if the only person who may be able to help her is the last man in the world with whom she wishes to associate?
After an unsuccessful visit with Caroline Bingley, Elizabeth finds herself standing in the pouring rain on Mr. Darcy’s doorstep. Flummoxed when Mr. Darcy answers his own door, Elizabeth gets right to the purpose of her visit. Although the haughty Mr. Darcy refuses to interfere in the matter, that is the least of Elizabeth’s concerns. Once she realizes they are the only two people in Darcy’s house, Elizabeth can only think what Society will say to this, a single, unescorted lady visiting a single man, who happens to be at home, alone, at night.
Upon making her appearance in London during the Season, Elizabeth quickly becomes friends with Lady Gwendolyn Helmsley. Lady Gwendolyn is an ambitious lady, looking not only to secure a proposal from the richest man in Derbyshire, but also to set her new friend up with her brother, Lord Latham. Will Lady Gwendolyn succeed with either of her plans?
Even though I was drawn into this story so much I didn’t want to put it down, there were a couple aspects I found lacking. Although I loved the interaction between Darcy and Elizabeth, I would have liked to have seen more interaction in between Darcy’s two proposals. Also, while Lady Gwendolyn poses a threat, personally, I feel the author could have done a bit more with that storyline as well. Even though these were areas I would have liked to have seen further developed, it did not interfere with my enjoyment of the story, as I was still able to read it in only two sittings and was left wanting more.
In addition, there are several things I enjoy about P O Dixon’s writing. For starters, it is always fun picking out the Pride and Prejudice parallels and quotes and seeing how they are woven into the new book. Another characteristic of Dixon’s writing I enjoy is how happenings that seem unimportant, such as a maid bringing Elizabeth tea into her chamber, play a much larger part later on, tying everything together nicely, and creating a solid, well-written, entertaining story. I especially like the connection Dixon creates between Darcy and Elizabeth. Even when they are at odds, I can feel something that makes me want to keep reading and seeing more of their interactions.
I have not been let down by one of P O Dixon’s books yet, and I look forward to seeing what this creative author comes up with next.
Originally posted on www.leatherboundreviews.blogspot.com
After an unsuccessful visit with Caroline Bingley, Elizabeth finds herself standing in the pouring rain on Mr. Darcy’s doorstep. Flummoxed when Mr. Darcy answers his own door, Elizabeth gets right to the purpose of her visit. Although the haughty Mr. Darcy refuses to interfere in the matter, that is the least of Elizabeth’s concerns. Once she realizes they are the only two people in Darcy’s house, Elizabeth can only think what Society will say to this, a single, unescorted lady visiting a single man, who happens to be at home, alone, at night.
Upon making her appearance in London during the Season, Elizabeth quickly becomes friends with Lady Gwendolyn Helmsley. Lady Gwendolyn is an ambitious lady, looking not only to secure a proposal from the richest man in Derbyshire, but also to set her new friend up with her brother, Lord Latham. Will Lady Gwendolyn succeed with either of her plans?
Even though I was drawn into this story so much I didn’t want to put it down, there were a couple aspects I found lacking. Although I loved the interaction between Darcy and Elizabeth, I would have liked to have seen more interaction in between Darcy’s two proposals. Also, while Lady Gwendolyn poses a threat, personally, I feel the author could have done a bit more with that storyline as well. Even though these were areas I would have liked to have seen further developed, it did not interfere with my enjoyment of the story, as I was still able to read it in only two sittings and was left wanting more.
In addition, there are several things I enjoy about P O Dixon’s writing. For starters, it is always fun picking out the Pride and Prejudice parallels and quotes and seeing how they are woven into the new book. Another characteristic of Dixon’s writing I enjoy is how happenings that seem unimportant, such as a maid bringing Elizabeth tea into her chamber, play a much larger part later on, tying everything together nicely, and creating a solid, well-written, entertaining story. I especially like the connection Dixon creates between Darcy and Elizabeth. Even when they are at odds, I can feel something that makes me want to keep reading and seeing more of their interactions.
I have not been let down by one of P O Dixon’s books yet, and I look forward to seeing what this creative author comes up with next.
Originally posted on www.leatherboundreviews.blogspot.com
August 24, 2014
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3.5 Austen.
Una curiosa y emotiva variación, nos presenta a una atrevida Elizabeth que hace todo por ayudar a su dulce hermana Jane. El libro es cortito, fácil de leer y muy divertido.
No hay profundidad en la definición de los personajes pero cumplen su cometido en hacer agradable la historia. Vemos a una Jane menos solícita y más demostrativa de su decepción y tristeza por la partida del señor Bingley.
La historia se inicia como una variación pero toma una ruta alternativa porque varios de los hechos de la historia original cambian. Y otros son creados para dar más emoción y romance a la historia.
Vosotros recordaréis la adaptación de Orgullo y Prejuicio de 1995 cuando Elizabeth sale de su casa, (en el momento que el señor Bingley propone matrimonio a Jane) se va a pensar sentada en un árbol (después de la visita del señor Darcy y Bingley), pues esta escena se da en el libro con la diferencia que luego el señor Darcy aparece y los dos hablan. Momentos tiernos que te hacen disfrutar de esta historia.
El viaje a Kent se realiza con la adición de otro miembro. Y los eventos suceden con sorpresas muy divertidas y socarronas. Un señor Darcy con más sentido del humor.
La autora hace un repaso rápido por las injustas condiciones a que la mujer era sometida por las costumbres de la época, elección de la pareja, la idea constante de mantener el estatus social o mejorarlo, etc. Entra en juego un personaje interesante como la duquesa Juliette que plantea un punto importante de aquella época, la falta de libertad de la mujer frente al matrimonio. ¿Por qué una mujer no puede seguir siendo libre y amar al mismo tiempo?
A pesar de las pocas pocas páginas del libro, su lectura es animosa y ágil, sin mayores pretenciones.
March 31, 2024
https://austendiaries.blogspot.com/20...
Type: Pride and Prejudice Variation
Perspective: Third Person
Romance Level: Kissing
Recommended: Maybe, if you adore Austen. 2 stars
You can get this e-book for free by signing up for P. O. Dixon's newsletter at http://podixon.com/
Note: I just can't review this one without some hints at spoilers.
Our story picks up just after Darcy returns returns to town after the Netherfield Ball. Elizabeth visits London to seek out Bingley and determine if he loves Jane. Unable to find Bingley, she visits Mr. Darcy in town and puts herself in a potentially compromising situation. Darcy looks after her but does not agree to help with Bingley. They continue to run into each other in town (and argue about Bingley and Jane) and later at the estate of mutual friends, Lord Trevor and Lady Gwyndolen. The Lord and Lady provide competing interest for Darcy and Elizabeth, weakly. There are still misunderstandings and a failed proposal, but these events take their own course and resolution.
I liked:
* There is so little interaction between Darcy and Elizabeth in P&P, it is fun to see added interaction here. It doesn't really reflect well on either character, however.
* Lord Trevor and Lady Gwyndolen add to the narrative with their plans and house party.
* Mary is a more active character in the narrative and less of a charicature.
I didn't like:
* The writing is choppy. It distracted from the story.
* On behalf of Jane, Elizabeth puts herself in situations I find unlikely for the time, place and character.
* The interest of Gwyndolen is weak and the "interest" Trevor has I found even less convincing.
Type: Pride and Prejudice Variation
Perspective: Third Person
Romance Level: Kissing
Recommended: Maybe, if you adore Austen. 2 stars
You can get this e-book for free by signing up for P. O. Dixon's newsletter at http://podixon.com/
Note: I just can't review this one without some hints at spoilers.
Our story picks up just after Darcy returns returns to town after the Netherfield Ball. Elizabeth visits London to seek out Bingley and determine if he loves Jane. Unable to find Bingley, she visits Mr. Darcy in town and puts herself in a potentially compromising situation. Darcy looks after her but does not agree to help with Bingley. They continue to run into each other in town (and argue about Bingley and Jane) and later at the estate of mutual friends, Lord Trevor and Lady Gwyndolen. The Lord and Lady provide competing interest for Darcy and Elizabeth, weakly. There are still misunderstandings and a failed proposal, but these events take their own course and resolution.
I liked:
* There is so little interaction between Darcy and Elizabeth in P&P, it is fun to see added interaction here. It doesn't really reflect well on either character, however.
* Lord Trevor and Lady Gwyndolen add to the narrative with their plans and house party.
* Mary is a more active character in the narrative and less of a charicature.
I didn't like:
* The writing is choppy. It distracted from the story.
* On behalf of Jane, Elizabeth puts herself in situations I find unlikely for the time, place and character.
* The interest of Gwyndolen is weak and the "interest" Trevor has I found even less convincing.
May 7, 2012
Bewitched Body and Soul by P.O. Dixon is a What-If? Pride and Prejudice adaptation sought to answer the question what would have happened had Elizabeth went off to London instead of Jane. Seeking to fix the misunderstanding between Mr. Bingley and Jane, Elizabeth is determined to mend Jane's broken-heart and convince Mr. Bingley of Jane's true feelings despite her reserved and shy nature. Finding that calling on Caroline Bingley to be less than helpful, Elizabeth seeks out Mr. Darcy for his help. After failing to gain his support as well, Elizabeth falls ill at Darcy's home and he seeks to care for her, but finds himself thwarted by his own actions and opinions to gain her favor over and over again. Blind to Mr. Darcy's feelings, Elizabeth is thrown into London society with the hopes of both enjoying the season and re-uniting her beloved sister with Mr. Bingley.
This novel had all the essential elements of the original Pride and Prejudice story, but at each turn it was creatively manipulated on a new path that Dixon creates. With each plot development it was interesting to see how different characters said familiar lines. Instead of a common What-If? that inserts some change and then continues forward in an alternate universe often times changing completely, this one was uniquely similar. Similar dialogue was spoken by different people, and similar events happened in a different order or in a different place with new people. It was very creatively done and I enjoyed it greatly.
This novel had all the essential elements of the original Pride and Prejudice story, but at each turn it was creatively manipulated on a new path that Dixon creates. With each plot development it was interesting to see how different characters said familiar lines. Instead of a common What-If? that inserts some change and then continues forward in an alternate universe often times changing completely, this one was uniquely similar. Similar dialogue was spoken by different people, and similar events happened in a different order or in a different place with new people. It was very creatively done and I enjoyed it greatly.
January 23, 2015
BEWITCHED, BODY AND SOUL is an engaging Pride and Prejudice "what-if" story about Darcy and Elizabeth and a different path to happily ever after. ♥❤♥
What Readers Are Saying:
"This novel had all the essential elements of the original Pride and Prejudice story, but at each turn it was creatively manipulated on a new path that Dixon creates."
"Dixon does a marvelous job of letting the wordplay between Darcy and Elizabeth become unintentional verbal foreplay between the characters. It's a quick, romantic read that I'm sure to revisit again and again! "
♥❤♥ Determined to right a wrong against her family, Elizabeth ventures to town to reunite her sister with her lover. In so doing, will she end up losing her own heart? ♥❤♥
Determined to discover the reason for Bingley's hasty departure from Netherfield, Elizabeth goes to town in Jane's stead. Her initial scheme having been thwarted and with nowhere else to go, she turns to one who is sure to put her in Bingley's path--Mr. Darcy.
Darcy realizes it will take more than time and distance to erase the memory of the beguiling country miss. When she arrives unescorted on his doorstep, will he help her? Or will he soon discover he is in grave danger of falling as much in love with her as ever before?
And what of his best friend's younger sister who has long had Darcy in her sights? Will Darcy pursue the young lady who meets Society's expectations of just what the next mistress of Pemberley ought to be or will he follow his heart?
Ms. Dixon writes well, but I was a bit taken back by Elizabeth's bravado.
What Readers Are Saying:
"This novel had all the essential elements of the original Pride and Prejudice story, but at each turn it was creatively manipulated on a new path that Dixon creates."
"Dixon does a marvelous job of letting the wordplay between Darcy and Elizabeth become unintentional verbal foreplay between the characters. It's a quick, romantic read that I'm sure to revisit again and again! "
♥❤♥ Determined to right a wrong against her family, Elizabeth ventures to town to reunite her sister with her lover. In so doing, will she end up losing her own heart? ♥❤♥
Determined to discover the reason for Bingley's hasty departure from Netherfield, Elizabeth goes to town in Jane's stead. Her initial scheme having been thwarted and with nowhere else to go, she turns to one who is sure to put her in Bingley's path--Mr. Darcy.
Darcy realizes it will take more than time and distance to erase the memory of the beguiling country miss. When she arrives unescorted on his doorstep, will he help her? Or will he soon discover he is in grave danger of falling as much in love with her as ever before?
And what of his best friend's younger sister who has long had Darcy in her sights? Will Darcy pursue the young lady who meets Society's expectations of just what the next mistress of Pemberley ought to be or will he follow his heart?
Ms. Dixon writes well, but I was a bit taken back by Elizabeth's bravado.
March 10, 2015
Enjoyed this variation of Pride and Prejudice. Elizabeth was very strong in this story. She took things in her own hands while in London visiting her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. Once again, she was thrown into the path of Mr. Darcy, because of her own desire to right the wrong done to Jane. What develops is her constant meetings with Darcy through unexpected happenings with the new social circle she finds herself. They meet again at an extended house party, where Lady Gwendolyn tells Elizabeth of the rumor spreading about her stay at Darcy House alone in the mistress' bedroom. Lady Gwendolyn wants Darcy for herself, but when Elizabeth leaves early, so does Darcy and Bingley. While in Hunsford, Darcy and Georgiana are united again with Elizabeth. While on one of his walks, she thanks him for his rescue of Lydia. He renewed his proposal, definitely much better the second time, and to his great relief she accepts his hand. At dinner, they announce their engagement and to everyone's surprise, Lady Catherine says nothing. When the sexes separate after dinner, Lady Catherine takes Elizabeth into the library and then begins to berate her rather loudly. Darcy hears the argument and rushes to Lizzy's defense. They leave the next morning for Longbourn, but Mr. Bennet already knows of the plan because Mr. Collins has written to tell him that his patroness is seriously displeased with his cousin, Elizabeth. Great story and an easy read.
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