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Pride & Prejudice: A Royal Disposition
What if....Elizabeth Bennet outranked Fitzwilliam Darcy? The familiar love story featuring two of the most celebrated characters in our history comes to life again in a "what if" story with a twist. Elizabeth and Darcy are in love and plan to marry, until Elizabeth comes face to face with Lady Catherine De Bourgh. Although standing strong during the worst confrontation of Miss Elizabeth's life, she soon realizes that she cannot marry Mr. Darcy and refuses him. Futile attempts by Mr. Darcy to win her back fail, until he finds out the most astonishing information about Elizabeth Bennet.
344 pages, Paperback
First published May 15, 2012
51 people are currently reading
270 people want to read
About the author
Amy Cecil
52 books1,065 followersedit biographydelete
Biography
Amy Cecil is an award-winning Indie author of both historical and contemporary romance. Her penchant for Austen fan fiction, won her the title of Favorite Historical Romance Author (2016-2017) while her MC series has won several awards throughout the Indie community. Recently, she has expanded her repertoire to the thriller and erotic genres.
For as long as she can remember, Amy always had a book (or two) that she was reading for the love of getting lost within its pages. Amy has been heard to have said, “I’ve never given much thought to becoming a writer myself until I realized that if I hadn’t written my own version of Mr. Darcy, I might have run out of material to read.”
And thus, her first novel was born, A Royal Disposition. In the words of Miss Austen herself, “I wish as well as everybody else to be perfectly happy; but, like everybody else, it must be in my own way.” Ms. Cecil writes to do just that.
She lives in North Carolina with her husband, Kevin, and their four dogs. When she isn’t creating her next masterpiece, or traveling the country for book signings, she enjoys spending time with her husband, friends, and of course her fur babies.
“Face life as you find it-defiantly and unafraid.” -Nietzsche
You can follow Amy on the following:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoramycecil/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/authoramycecil
Twitter: https://twitter.com/acecil65
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/amycecil
Website: http://acecil65.wix.com/amycecil
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
March 9, 2017
“I believe that two people are connected at the heart, and it doesn’t matter what you do, or who you are or where you live; there are no boundaries or barriers if two people are destined to be together.” Julia Roberts
This was a clean romance and I simply loved the story. There were many new characters from the highest circles of the realm. I mean really high circles. There was a secret regarding the Prince of England and it involved Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn. This was such a neat twist to our regular JAFF. It was off canon and I admit many liberties were taken in propriety, comportment, and manners. Man, this was so neat.
Wickham was, as always, a scum-bag-rat-bastard trying to garner funds from Darcy. He thought he played his cards well, only we knew that Darcy held the winning hand, and that end was so cool.
Mr. Collins was the subservient toad of Lady Catherine and both acted out and acted badly. I was so upset, that I was moved to violence, and wanted to stab him in the heart, and smash Lady Catherine with her own cane. I felt really bad about that.
Mr. Bennet… OMG! This was such a sweet man. I shall love him forever for his kindness to Elizabeth. Of course, on the other hand, I am angry at him for allowing Mrs. Bennet to become a ridiculous woman and allowing the younger girls to become such silly creatures. Lydia’s disgrace and behavior falls at his door step and at the feet of her mother.
Elizabeth Bennet: “If you love someone, set them free. If they come back they’re yours; if they don’t they never were.” Richard Bach
I absolutely sustained whiplash from the going back and forth with her feelings and emotions. I grew tired of her vacillating, mercurial feelings. Her actions spanned the length of the emotional scale and I was dizzy as she worked through an issue only to revert back to that of a simpering, sniveling, quaking, diva. I grew tired her manipulating poor Darcy into an emotional wreck. How many times did they need to reassure each other of their devotion and love? How many times did he need to find the bottom of a bottle for relief to his pain? And how many times did he have to dredge, once again, an emotional commitment from Elizabeth? I wanted to tell him to run. Elizabeth would walk away, and then cry her eyes out, only to do it all over again. It was too much and too OOC [out of character]. At every turn, she was a flight risk. I mean, seriously, I am surprised Darcy didn’t post a guard on her to make sure she didn’t bolt.
Darcy: “When a woman is talking to you, listen to what she says with her eyes.” Victor Hugo
Thank goodness, Darcy was persistent. I grew tired of his having to, once again, settle the frayed nerves of his intended, ex-intended, re-intended [is that a word?] and then almost wife. Lawd, my neck hurts from jerking back and forth as I watched scenes between these two characters.
Mrs. Bennet: “They do not love that do not show their love.” William Shakespeare.
This was a perfect quote that epitomized the feelings and emotions regarding Mrs. Bennet. Everyone knew that there was no love lost between Mrs. Bennet and the second Bennet daughter. Mrs. Bennet was angry in so many areas where Elizabeth was concerned.
The Epilogue was cute as it looked back over the last fifteen years. There were a few surprises and a few tears. Not every thread had an ending. We were left to wonder about a few of the characters. Over all I enjoyed the creative twist of our P&P characters.
This was a clean romance and I simply loved the story. There were many new characters from the highest circles of the realm. I mean really high circles. There was a secret regarding the Prince of England and it involved Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn. This was such a neat twist to our regular JAFF. It was off canon and I admit many liberties were taken in propriety, comportment, and manners. Man, this was so neat.
Wickham was, as always, a scum-bag-rat-bastard trying to garner funds from Darcy. He thought he played his cards well, only we knew that Darcy held the winning hand, and that end was so cool.
Mr. Collins was the subservient toad of Lady Catherine and both acted out and acted badly. I was so upset, that I was moved to violence, and wanted to stab him in the heart, and smash Lady Catherine with her own cane. I felt really bad about that.
Mr. Bennet… OMG! This was such a sweet man. I shall love him forever for his kindness to Elizabeth. Of course, on the other hand, I am angry at him for allowing Mrs. Bennet to become a ridiculous woman and allowing the younger girls to become such silly creatures. Lydia’s disgrace and behavior falls at his door step and at the feet of her mother.
Elizabeth Bennet: “If you love someone, set them free. If they come back they’re yours; if they don’t they never were.” Richard Bach
I absolutely sustained whiplash from the going back and forth with her feelings and emotions. I grew tired of her vacillating, mercurial feelings. Her actions spanned the length of the emotional scale and I was dizzy as she worked through an issue only to revert back to that of a simpering, sniveling, quaking, diva. I grew tired her manipulating poor Darcy into an emotional wreck. How many times did they need to reassure each other of their devotion and love? How many times did he need to find the bottom of a bottle for relief to his pain? And how many times did he have to dredge, once again, an emotional commitment from Elizabeth? I wanted to tell him to run. Elizabeth would walk away, and then cry her eyes out, only to do it all over again. It was too much and too OOC [out of character]. At every turn, she was a flight risk. I mean, seriously, I am surprised Darcy didn’t post a guard on her to make sure she didn’t bolt.
Darcy: “When a woman is talking to you, listen to what she says with her eyes.” Victor Hugo
Thank goodness, Darcy was persistent. I grew tired of his having to, once again, settle the frayed nerves of his intended, ex-intended, re-intended [is that a word?] and then almost wife. Lawd, my neck hurts from jerking back and forth as I watched scenes between these two characters.
Mrs. Bennet: “They do not love that do not show their love.” William Shakespeare.
This was a perfect quote that epitomized the feelings and emotions regarding Mrs. Bennet. Everyone knew that there was no love lost between Mrs. Bennet and the second Bennet daughter. Mrs. Bennet was angry in so many areas where Elizabeth was concerned.
The Epilogue was cute as it looked back over the last fifteen years. There were a few surprises and a few tears. Not every thread had an ending. We were left to wonder about a few of the characters. Over all I enjoyed the creative twist of our P&P characters.
April 7, 2018
I was really excited to read this story because a "higher ranked" Elizabeth is something I have't read before. I enjoyed the concept but I do wish that the "royal" part went further. The story almost didn't need it. I'd like to see one where she out ranks him and knows it from the start!
April 26, 2021
Not in the least charming; almost no original scenes or dialogue interaction.
Synopsis:
Lady Sophia Murray caught the degenerate Prince Frederick’s eye, and they fell madly in love.
He is forbidden from marrying her, and she dies in childbirth as they had anticipated vows. The brother of Lady Sophia is a married earl and for some reason he and his wife won’t claim the kid as theirs. Instead, as they lived in Netherfield at time of birth, they hoist the baby on the Bennets- Mr B for some reason wants the kid? Was there financial incentive? It is not made clear why they would.
Thus Lizzy is a royal bastard, though she is unaware.
Prince Frederick is a cad.
The Bingleys get a relation promotion, they are also related to the earl Lord Murray- the uncle of Lizzy- who happens to own Netherfield which is why the Bingleys stay there.
That Which Pleased:
That Which Grated:
✗Not keen on the over verbatim quoting of source material scenes, tis lazy.
✗Telling us what the character is like, instead of allowing the characters dialogue and action speak to that affect, also lazy writing.
✗What is the point of writing JAFF if you don't go for it in terms of scenes, dialogue? Here Darcy allegedly engages in conversation with Lizzy yet we are largely told over shown! i.e.
Pray, might we be privy to such dialogue? Why do you think people read JAFF?
How dull. Can you expect me to rejoice in a courtship whence you provide me no insight into why they suit? I assure you it will only alienate your reader. The only dialogue heavy scenes are those copied and pasted from the original work.
The author even borrows original lines from the 2005 adapt. I would say very little of this work is original.
✗When you are doing a variation as significant as alternative parentage it best serve a purpose. What is the point of Lizzy’s secret birth when it barely factors in any tangible way. It doesn’t even affect her and Darcy relationship.
✗The events are so contrived.
Verdict:
➭If I am at 50% and if not a thing has gripped me at these heights I think it is fair to quit, especially when this Lizzy with her illustrious secret parentage is even lamer than our humble OG Lizzy, she allowed Lady C's intimidation to get to her!
Not my courageous Lizzy- Too wack!
Synopsis:
Lady Sophia Murray caught the degenerate Prince Frederick’s eye, and they fell madly in love.
He is forbidden from marrying her, and she dies in childbirth as they had anticipated vows. The brother of Lady Sophia is a married earl and for some reason he and his wife won’t claim the kid as theirs. Instead, as they lived in Netherfield at time of birth, they hoist the baby on the Bennets- Mr B for some reason wants the kid? Was there financial incentive? It is not made clear why they would.
Thus Lizzy is a royal bastard, though she is unaware.
Prince Frederick is a cad.
The Bingleys get a relation promotion, they are also related to the earl Lord Murray- the uncle of Lizzy- who happens to own Netherfield which is why the Bingleys stay there.
That Which Pleased:
That Which Grated:
✗Not keen on the over verbatim quoting of source material scenes, tis lazy.
✗Telling us what the character is like, instead of allowing the characters dialogue and action speak to that affect, also lazy writing.
✗What is the point of writing JAFF if you don't go for it in terms of scenes, dialogue? Here Darcy allegedly engages in conversation with Lizzy yet we are largely told over shown! i.e.
“Darcy, upon realizing how much Elizabeth Bennet intrigued him, took steps towards conversing with her at every opportunity. At social gatherings where they were both present, he attended to her conversations with others. He did this so often that it was starting to draw her notice.”
Pray, might we be privy to such dialogue? Why do you think people read JAFF?
How dull. Can you expect me to rejoice in a courtship whence you provide me no insight into why they suit? I assure you it will only alienate your reader. The only dialogue heavy scenes are those copied and pasted from the original work.
The author even borrows original lines from the 2005 adapt. I would say very little of this work is original.
✗When you are doing a variation as significant as alternative parentage it best serve a purpose. What is the point of Lizzy’s secret birth when it barely factors in any tangible way. It doesn’t even affect her and Darcy relationship.
✗The events are so contrived.
Verdict:
➭If I am at 50% and if not a thing has gripped me at these heights I think it is fair to quit, especially when this Lizzy with her illustrious secret parentage is even lamer than our humble OG Lizzy, she allowed Lady C's intimidation to get to her!
Not my courageous Lizzy- Too wack!
November 23, 2025
An entertaining audiobook. Performance was ok, but there was something a little annoying about the rhythm of the narrator's dramatization. and nasally when she is being coy as Elizabeth.
What wasn't part of canon was really interesting.
ODC fall in love easily, but E's fear of society's opinion keeps them apart and struggling to find a way to marry.
What wasn't part of canon was really interesting.
ODC fall in love easily, but E's fear of society's opinion keeps them apart and struggling to find a way to marry.
April 19, 2017
3.5 Stars
One of my main complaints about this story is that the dialogue was very uneven. The fact is that it just did not flow smoothly. The passages were awkward and choppy, in my opinion.
One does know to take a leap of faith with JAFF in that they are variations and the author has license to change events. However, one of the main points, main premises, in canon is that class divisions are ignored by ODC in finally falling in love and reconciling. So, even though Elizabeth repeats most of her arguments from P&P in her debate with Lady Catherine, to then turn around and break her engagement with Darcy due to how this will affect his and Georgiana’s standing with the ton is unbelievable. But if you can get over that major “what-if”, you may find merit in this variation.
I recently read “A Royal Bennet” by another author, so this idea was not new to me. The Sample tells us that Prince Frederick and Lady Sophia were prevented by the King’s command from marrying…after they had already anticipated their marriage vows. They certainly were equal in class but the King had his own plans for his second son. The mother dies and their offspring is adopted. Only three people are aware of the child’s true lineage, her biological father, her adopted father, Mr. Bennet, and her mother’s brother/her uncle, Lord Murray…who just happens to also be uncle to Charles Bingley.
Year pass and we happen upon Bingley leasing Netherfield, and subsequently his and his guests’ attendance at the local assembly. Yes, Darcy makes his insulting remark about Elizabeth not being handsome enough to tempt him. BUT here we depart from canon. Darcy pauses, contemplates that statement and goes to Elizabeth and apologizes. She accepts his apology and a pleasant conversation ensues. Elizabeth is again in his company after she trudges through the mud to attend her sick sister at Netherfield. We read of how ODC come to fall in love and then how shortly afterwards Darcy visits Mr. Bennet to seek permission to marry. All is well…except for the disgruntled and spiteful Mr. Collins who was just rejected by Elizabeth in his marriage proposal and now learns it was because of her accepting of Mr. Darcy’s proposal. He is determined to set her in her place and runs to Lady Catherine, as he “knows” Mr. Darcy is engaged to her daughter, Anne. So we have the infamous scolding by Lady C. in her visit to Elizabeth. Elizabeth knows how to stand up for herself BUT immediately upon Lady C.’s departure is struck with the truth of what Lady C. claimed. His marriage to her will be disaster. Society will shun the family and so Elizabeth now breaks her engagement despite the arguments of everyone around her. This includes Lord Frederick, her biological father, who, as friend to Lord Murray, has accompanied him on a visit to his nephew’s newly leased estate, Netherfield.
Much of this novel expounds on the secrecy of Elizabeth’s parentage and whether or not to reveal it; first of all to her, to Darcy, to their families, (including the King and Queen), and to society in general. That revelation would then bring the additional stigma of “illegitimacy”, a further reason why the ton would look down on Elizabeth and her family and anyone who might marry her. Elizabeth seems to dig her heels in harder and harder as each consequence is considered. But then tragedy strikes Darcy with another perhaps fatal blow! Has fate settled the question of her bringing disgrace to the Darcy name? Has their chance for even a small bit of happiness passed by?
As I said, if you can suspend holding onto the premise from canon that class structure can go hang then you may find pleasure in reading this variation on Pride and Prejudice.
One of my main complaints about this story is that the dialogue was very uneven. The fact is that it just did not flow smoothly. The passages were awkward and choppy, in my opinion.
One does know to take a leap of faith with JAFF in that they are variations and the author has license to change events. However, one of the main points, main premises, in canon is that class divisions are ignored by ODC in finally falling in love and reconciling. So, even though Elizabeth repeats most of her arguments from P&P in her debate with Lady Catherine, to then turn around and break her engagement with Darcy due to how this will affect his and Georgiana’s standing with the ton is unbelievable. But if you can get over that major “what-if”, you may find merit in this variation.
I recently read “A Royal Bennet” by another author, so this idea was not new to me. The Sample tells us that Prince Frederick and Lady Sophia were prevented by the King’s command from marrying…after they had already anticipated their marriage vows. They certainly were equal in class but the King had his own plans for his second son. The mother dies and their offspring is adopted. Only three people are aware of the child’s true lineage, her biological father, her adopted father, Mr. Bennet, and her mother’s brother/her uncle, Lord Murray…who just happens to also be uncle to Charles Bingley.
Year pass and we happen upon Bingley leasing Netherfield, and subsequently his and his guests’ attendance at the local assembly. Yes, Darcy makes his insulting remark about Elizabeth not being handsome enough to tempt him. BUT here we depart from canon. Darcy pauses, contemplates that statement and goes to Elizabeth and apologizes. She accepts his apology and a pleasant conversation ensues. Elizabeth is again in his company after she trudges through the mud to attend her sick sister at Netherfield. We read of how ODC come to fall in love and then how shortly afterwards Darcy visits Mr. Bennet to seek permission to marry. All is well…except for the disgruntled and spiteful Mr. Collins who was just rejected by Elizabeth in his marriage proposal and now learns it was because of her accepting of Mr. Darcy’s proposal. He is determined to set her in her place and runs to Lady Catherine, as he “knows” Mr. Darcy is engaged to her daughter, Anne. So we have the infamous scolding by Lady C. in her visit to Elizabeth. Elizabeth knows how to stand up for herself BUT immediately upon Lady C.’s departure is struck with the truth of what Lady C. claimed. His marriage to her will be disaster. Society will shun the family and so Elizabeth now breaks her engagement despite the arguments of everyone around her. This includes Lord Frederick, her biological father, who, as friend to Lord Murray, has accompanied him on a visit to his nephew’s newly leased estate, Netherfield.
Much of this novel expounds on the secrecy of Elizabeth’s parentage and whether or not to reveal it; first of all to her, to Darcy, to their families, (including the King and Queen), and to society in general. That revelation would then bring the additional stigma of “illegitimacy”, a further reason why the ton would look down on Elizabeth and her family and anyone who might marry her. Elizabeth seems to dig her heels in harder and harder as each consequence is considered. But then tragedy strikes Darcy with another perhaps fatal blow! Has fate settled the question of her bringing disgrace to the Darcy name? Has their chance for even a small bit of happiness passed by?
As I said, if you can suspend holding onto the premise from canon that class structure can go hang then you may find pleasure in reading this variation on Pride and Prejudice.
May 3, 2022
I liked the storyline and premise of the book very much. Even though the beginning chapters followed much of canon, it does skip the misunderstandings between ODC, and Elizabeth never falls for Wickham’s charms or lies about Darcy. I get so tired of that. Even so, Lizzy has to be stubborn Lizzy at some point, but it it all works out eventually. Minimal proofreading errors are a plus as well. Of the JAFF books I’ve read from this author, this is my favorite.
April 29-30, 2022 - Audiobook
Good narration by Marina Barret, although I couldn’t understand why she would give two English princes a German accent, or at least what I think was a German accent. On second reading of this via the audiobook, Elizabeth’s repeated stupid reasons for refusing to marry Darcy grated on my nerves.
April 29-30, 2022 - Audiobook
Good narration by Marina Barret, although I couldn’t understand why she would give two English princes a German accent, or at least what I think was a German accent. On second reading of this via the audiobook, Elizabeth’s repeated stupid reasons for refusing to marry Darcy grated on my nerves.
May 19, 2023
Good story
I love the love story, liked the epilogue. I always dislike the elopement of Lydia and Wickham, I like the stories where they don't make them marry! But the love story was great!!!
I love the love story, liked the epilogue. I always dislike the elopement of Lydia and Wickham, I like the stories where they don't make them marry! But the love story was great!!!
March 15, 2023
Great story
I love these what if stories about missy not being a Bennett's I enjoyed it. it was a page turning story. Well. Written loved the story arc. Really recommend it
I love these what if stories about missy not being a Bennett's I enjoyed it. it was a page turning story. Well. Written loved the story arc. Really recommend it
June 13, 2012
Nice characterization of Darcy and Elizabeth. However, I found the Royal aspect very unbelievable. At that time in history those in line to the throne held their positions very jealously. They would NOT welcome someone butting in line. And I found the dialogue stilted. But, I took a leap of faith and enjoyed the ride.
One important thought, however. The very critical aspect of the original P&P was that Elizabeth (and Jane) were wonderful women despite their nature and nurture being lacking. They deserved to be loved because of the women they had worked hard to become. I just feel sorry that we sometimes have to make up alternate genetics in order to explain why Darcy could love someone like Elizabeth. I don't think Austen would approve.
September 25, 2017
In this Pride & Prejudice variation, Elizabeth and Darcy are attracted right way and find themselves in love sooner than canon. However, this story has another plot line within. Elizabeth has been adopted by the Bennets and told that her parents have died. The story of her true heritage and her parents love and obligations has a significant impact on her life and then on her understanding of love in general. It comes as quite a surprise for many of the villains in the story to discover her association with not only the highest society, but royalty.
May 26, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
I found Elizabeths objections to commiting to Darcy annoying.
I listened to the audio version
I found Elizabeths objections to commiting to Darcy annoying.
I listened to the audio version
January 27, 2018
In this book, Darcy apologises to Elizabeth immediately after the 'tolerable but not handsome enough to tempt me' moment. Consequently, they find themselves falling in love very quickly. I really loved this part of the book, the story was really romantic. But of course, things have to wrong... Lady Catherine visits and offers the traditional argument that Elizabeth would be an embarrassment to the Darcy name. Elizabeth deals with her beautifully.... but then decides Lady Catherine is right and breaks Darcy's heart and her own. This is where it all went a bit wrong for me....
It's so frustrating.... I loved so many aspects of this book. Darcy is lovely, Georgiana is lovely, the story is romantic with mystery, family secrets, Wickham being a scoundrel... but there were lots of aspects I didn't like. Elizabeth's argument to the marriage was inconsistent with her confidence in the first half of the book. She's always changing her mind, crying and came across as a bit pathetic but only in the second half of the book. The Royal connection is about Elizabeth and adds something extra to this story.
Despite all the things that frustrated me, overall, I really enjoyed the story and read this in one sitting. I also found I could overlook the errors in language and HUGE breaches of propriety because I liked the story.... so it must have been good!
It's so frustrating.... I loved so many aspects of this book. Darcy is lovely, Georgiana is lovely, the story is romantic with mystery, family secrets, Wickham being a scoundrel... but there were lots of aspects I didn't like. Elizabeth's argument to the marriage was inconsistent with her confidence in the first half of the book. She's always changing her mind, crying and came across as a bit pathetic but only in the second half of the book. The Royal connection is about Elizabeth and adds something extra to this story.
Despite all the things that frustrated me, overall, I really enjoyed the story and read this in one sitting. I also found I could overlook the errors in language and HUGE breaches of propriety because I liked the story.... so it must have been good!
November 3, 2022
Fire the editor/proof reader
A good story but full of typos, transposed words and incorrect use of double negatives. Worst are occasional lapses into modern language that harshly jerk the reader out of the story. People kept going to their rooms to "get refreshed". I sent corrections for the first quarter of the book but grew tired of doing what someone else was already paid to do. From now on I'm not editing for free. The plot was OK but there were no surprises to be found in its predictability.
A good story but full of typos, transposed words and incorrect use of double negatives. Worst are occasional lapses into modern language that harshly jerk the reader out of the story. People kept going to their rooms to "get refreshed". I sent corrections for the first quarter of the book but grew tired of doing what someone else was already paid to do. From now on I'm not editing for free. The plot was OK but there were no surprises to be found in its predictability.
July 6, 2012
A sequel (whether a book or movie) seldom lives up to the original. We should leave Pride and Prejudice to Jane Austen instead of Amy Cecil's "what if . . . " book. Many phrases seem to be lifted from Austen.
Chaste kisses and embraces
No violence or bad language
Chaste kisses and embraces
No violence or bad language
March 6, 2020
A bit too long
I'm a huge fan ( husband & daughter say obsessed) with the original P&P. I've read sequels & variations. This one is difficult for me explain how I feel about it.
As I mentioned in the title, it is a bit too long. Originally, I bought it for the length. However, the on again off again of Darcy & Elizabeth's relationship became a bit ridiculous. This version of them were barely like the original, Elizabeth more so. This version lacks the original 's courage and confidence. She was far too wimpy ( lack of better word).
Mrs, Bennet in this version was horrible, more than was needed. Then, at the last minute a complete change, unrealistic.
I hate the fact Mr. Bennet isn't Elizabeth 's biological father. It completely throws the book off and ruins the relationship between the two. This version, Mr. Bennet is more forceful, which, I did like.
The rest of the daughters were brushed over, Lydia not as much. The incident with she and Wickham was, also, unrealistic.
The person who his Elizabeth's biological father, is ludicrous. Also, it was historically inaccurate. There's no way, she would be allowed the position she was given, due to who her mother was and the way in which she was conceived.
Overall, the book was almost nonsensical. It was too unrealistic and saccharine sweet. Again, taking away the feel and characteristics of the original characters.
For .99 some make want to read it and even like better than I do. I won't necessarily recommended it, but, the worse I've read either.
I'm a huge fan ( husband & daughter say obsessed) with the original P&P. I've read sequels & variations. This one is difficult for me explain how I feel about it.
As I mentioned in the title, it is a bit too long. Originally, I bought it for the length. However, the on again off again of Darcy & Elizabeth's relationship became a bit ridiculous. This version of them were barely like the original, Elizabeth more so. This version lacks the original 's courage and confidence. She was far too wimpy ( lack of better word).
Mrs, Bennet in this version was horrible, more than was needed. Then, at the last minute a complete change, unrealistic.
I hate the fact Mr. Bennet isn't Elizabeth 's biological father. It completely throws the book off and ruins the relationship between the two. This version, Mr. Bennet is more forceful, which, I did like.
The rest of the daughters were brushed over, Lydia not as much. The incident with she and Wickham was, also, unrealistic.
The person who his Elizabeth's biological father, is ludicrous. Also, it was historically inaccurate. There's no way, she would be allowed the position she was given, due to who her mother was and the way in which she was conceived.
Overall, the book was almost nonsensical. It was too unrealistic and saccharine sweet. Again, taking away the feel and characteristics of the original characters.
For .99 some make want to read it and even like better than I do. I won't necessarily recommended it, but, the worse I've read either.
June 28, 2025
Very good but it could have been excellent
The story line was good and the plot varied but so many typos and mistakes. It would have been easily spotted by a proofreader… they are distracting.
One thing among many that annoyed me is the fact that Wickham got a huge “gift” for his disgraceful behaviour: £3 thousand a year plus a commission and a free house? Really? That is more than Mr. Bennet himself gets from his estate.
Some details got lost such as who was listening outside the door when the duke talked to Lord Murray about Elizabeth? To what end was the person listening and what did they do with the information?
I’d like to see Caroline Bingley publicly disgraced and Mr. Collins deserved a more severe punishment than what he got.
Surely the news of the new Princess Elizabeth could have been explored a bit more to the dissatisfaction of her haters.
Other than that, the story is sweet and the HEA of ODC is endearing.
The story line was good and the plot varied but so many typos and mistakes. It would have been easily spotted by a proofreader… they are distracting.
One thing among many that annoyed me is the fact that Wickham got a huge “gift” for his disgraceful behaviour: £3 thousand a year plus a commission and a free house? Really? That is more than Mr. Bennet himself gets from his estate.
Some details got lost such as who was listening outside the door when the duke talked to Lord Murray about Elizabeth? To what end was the person listening and what did they do with the information?
I’d like to see Caroline Bingley publicly disgraced and Mr. Collins deserved a more severe punishment than what he got.
Surely the news of the new Princess Elizabeth could have been explored a bit more to the dissatisfaction of her haters.
Other than that, the story is sweet and the HEA of ODC is endearing.
December 12, 2017
"Always, Only You" ♡♡♡♡
Could there be a more perfect quote for a love story, nevermind a Darcy and Elizabeth story!? I loved this version on a beloved classic novel! The twists were so very imaginative and I loved that it was so easy to accept them and that these changes flowed effortlessly with the original version. The epilogue was marvelous! I loved how Ms. Cecil humanized them so perfectly and that they faced very real trials and still remained so much in love. The best part!? How Mr. Collins was so truly evil! I knew he had it in him! For those wishing there was more Austen in the world, read this!! Ms. Cecil took up the Jane Austen mantle and delivered a brilliantly witty, diverting and emotional novel ♡
Could there be a more perfect quote for a love story, nevermind a Darcy and Elizabeth story!? I loved this version on a beloved classic novel! The twists were so very imaginative and I loved that it was so easy to accept them and that these changes flowed effortlessly with the original version. The epilogue was marvelous! I loved how Ms. Cecil humanized them so perfectly and that they faced very real trials and still remained so much in love. The best part!? How Mr. Collins was so truly evil! I knew he had it in him! For those wishing there was more Austen in the world, read this!! Ms. Cecil took up the Jane Austen mantle and delivered a brilliantly witty, diverting and emotional novel ♡
August 11, 2019
While I enjoyed the premise of this "what if" variation, spending almost a whole day reading this book, I had one major complaint. I don't know if it's lack of a good proofreader or being too reliant with spell check, but so many e-books seem to have issues with typos. Whenever I come across a typo in a book I'm reading, it takes me away from the story. I'm no longer in Regency England, but back home in 2019. Unfortunately, this book seemed to have several typos of character's names. (Ex: Fredrick instead of Frederick, Carolina and Mill Bingley instead of Miss Caroline Bingley and poor Georgiana was referred to as Georgia, Georgian and Georgianna!) There were a few other instances as well. I sadly knocked off a 🌟 from my rating because of that.
January 25, 2024
Beautifully done. The road to love for our favorite characters has some unexpected turns.
Miss Elizabeth Bennet is considered impertinent, but she is always kind. Not a true Bennet she is not always considered or treated kindly by Mrs. Bennet . For Mr. Bennet, however she is " his Lizzy " his favorite and most intelligent daughter. We have some of the usual antagonists taken to new heights of arrogance.. Wickham thinks he has played his hand well and can make Darcy bend to his commands when he compromises Lydia Bennet, but the way he is thwarted is absolutely masterfully achieved with the help of both of Elizabeth's Fathers . I found myself cheering in several spots. I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful story, I'm sure you will too.
Miss Elizabeth Bennet is considered impertinent, but she is always kind. Not a true Bennet she is not always considered or treated kindly by Mrs. Bennet . For Mr. Bennet, however she is " his Lizzy " his favorite and most intelligent daughter. We have some of the usual antagonists taken to new heights of arrogance.. Wickham thinks he has played his hand well and can make Darcy bend to his commands when he compromises Lydia Bennet, but the way he is thwarted is absolutely masterfully achieved with the help of both of Elizabeth's Fathers . I found myself cheering in several spots. I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful story, I'm sure you will too.
April 18, 2018
What if Elizabeth Bennet was the illegitimate daughter of Lady Sophia Murray and Prince Frederick, of course this does not make her a princess as she is illegitimate but still has the connection to royalty. But this is unknown to Elizabeth or Darcy when they fall in love quite quickly. But still the path to a happy ending does not go smoothly, probably a bit too roughly, and Elizabeth was just too perfect. I admit to not understanding or approving of Mr Bennet putting Elizabeth before his actual daughters. As he knew Elizabeth's real connections he really should have tried harder to be a better father and husband to his family.
September 24, 2021
Emotional turmoil, funny, interesting, thrilling
What an emotional turmoil in which h Darcy and Elizabeth go through. I loved how much Darcy loved and fought to keep Elizabeth. I found it incredible that Elizabeth was related to royalty and Bingley. I was emotionally involved when Elizabeth walked away from Darcy, but found warmth in Georgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam. I loved how Elizabeth worked out her issues and how she got back together with Darcy. The set down of lady Catherine and Mr Collins was funny. Great story and well written, great for anyone to read.
What an emotional turmoil in which h Darcy and Elizabeth go through. I loved how much Darcy loved and fought to keep Elizabeth. I found it incredible that Elizabeth was related to royalty and Bingley. I was emotionally involved when Elizabeth walked away from Darcy, but found warmth in Georgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam. I loved how Elizabeth worked out her issues and how she got back together with Darcy. The set down of lady Catherine and Mr Collins was funny. Great story and well written, great for anyone to read.
December 24, 2023
Good plot
I like the “Elizabeth Bennett” is more than she seems type of plots. Very little conflict except between Elizabeth’s falling on her own sword to protect Darcy. I would have like to see all the problem characters (Wickham, Lydia, Caroline Bingly, Lady Catherine) get more comeuppance. Wickham gets a ridiculous annual allowance of 3k versus the 10k he was asking for. 10k in the 4% is 400 pounds a year. So I think the author didn’t really think that through. Only a few editing errors. But overall, a good read.
I like the “Elizabeth Bennett” is more than she seems type of plots. Very little conflict except between Elizabeth’s falling on her own sword to protect Darcy. I would have like to see all the problem characters (Wickham, Lydia, Caroline Bingly, Lady Catherine) get more comeuppance. Wickham gets a ridiculous annual allowance of 3k versus the 10k he was asking for. 10k in the 4% is 400 pounds a year. So I think the author didn’t really think that through. Only a few editing errors. But overall, a good read.
January 30, 2024
I've read Pride & Prejudice enough times to be able to quote it in my sleep. If wanted to immerse myself in Jane Austen's world as she wrote it, I would read Pride & Prejudice or another one of her works without resorting to JAFF. I'm looking for variety in JAFF, not canon, and paraphrasing Austen doesn't cut it anymore. I didn't make it beyond 28%, it was just too boring. Perhaps it would've turned around later one but I simply did not have enough interest in the characters to find out.
May 9, 2017
Elizabeth Bennet an adopted child and daughter of royalty? This plot intrigued me very much!
Unfortunately, the over-polite, over- abundant conversations in the novel, plus the dull passages inspired by the original Austen's story keep your reading slow and boring. With a bit of restyling this Pride & Prejudice variation could be so much more pleasant!
Unfortunately, the over-polite, over- abundant conversations in the novel, plus the dull passages inspired by the original Austen's story keep your reading slow and boring. With a bit of restyling this Pride & Prejudice variation could be so much more pleasant!
March 25, 2018
Love it!
I can never get enough of Pride and Prejudice in any form. I love that someone picked up these awesome characters and gave us a new depth. The inner thoughts of so many is delightful and keeps the plot moving along. I did not want to put it down. If I had even a couple minutes in the bathroom I was reading this book. Now off to start the next one. Cheers
I can never get enough of Pride and Prejudice in any form. I love that someone picked up these awesome characters and gave us a new depth. The inner thoughts of so many is delightful and keeps the plot moving along. I did not want to put it down. If I had even a couple minutes in the bathroom I was reading this book. Now off to start the next one. Cheers
June 18, 2020
Augh
Hard to finish. Sapppy and the story wasn’t developed. Characters were boring and the ANGST. Oh the angst seemed forced. She hit all the classic requirements but all felt superficial and honestly dumb.
Hard to finish. Sapppy and the story wasn’t developed. Characters were boring and the ANGST. Oh the angst seemed forced. She hit all the classic requirements but all felt superficial and honestly dumb.
February 12, 2026
The writing is very good and I liked the story concept. The reason I marked this a 3 and not a 4 star review is the stubbornness / willfulness of Elizabeth just got tiresome and hence the only way to overcome it was the trope of the love interest (Darcy) on his deathbed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2018
The one thing that bother me most was Frederick was a Royal. Should he to be treated as such?
March 26, 2018
Delightful
This is a delightful what if rendition of pride and prejudice. I loved it and would suggest it to anyone who loves spins on pride and prejudice.
This is a delightful what if rendition of pride and prejudice. I loved it and would suggest it to anyone who loves spins on pride and prejudice.
October 23, 2019
So lovely
A rather interesting variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic Pride and Prejudice. It really grabbed my emotions and had me wanting to see how it ended.
A rather interesting variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic Pride and Prejudice. It really grabbed my emotions and had me wanting to see how it ended.
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