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Something More Substantial
In Pride and Prejudice , Elizabeth Bennet meets Fitzwilliam Darcy in Meryton, where Mr. Darcy’s concern for his sister and general reticence leads him to insult her. But what if Mr. Darcy did not meet her there, instead making her acquaintance in other circumstances more favorable to their understanding?
When she visits Rosings Park and her friend, Charlotte Collins, Elizabeth does so with no notion that Fitzwilliam Darcy even exists, for Netherfield Park remained empty the previous autumn. As is his custom, Mr. Darcy comes to Rosings in his cousin’s company, and there he meets a young lady unlike any he has ever met.
Rosings itself is not a place where he can conduct any sort of campaign to win the fair maiden’s heart, for his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, is watchful and determined Darcy will marry her daughter. Despite this interference, Darcy eventually leaves Kent, secure in the knowledge that Miss Elizabeth is a woman he would like to come to know better. The question he is unable to answer is when he can meet her again, for their positions in society are oceans apart, and there is little opportunity for chance meetings.
But fate has other plans, for not only do they meet again, but they also encounter each other in a place that allows their love to blossom. Only the small matters of his family expectations and her condition in life stand in his way. Yet Darcy is determined to pursue Miss Elizabeth, certain in the knowledge she will make him the happiest of men.
When she visits Rosings Park and her friend, Charlotte Collins, Elizabeth does so with no notion that Fitzwilliam Darcy even exists, for Netherfield Park remained empty the previous autumn. As is his custom, Mr. Darcy comes to Rosings in his cousin’s company, and there he meets a young lady unlike any he has ever met.
Rosings itself is not a place where he can conduct any sort of campaign to win the fair maiden’s heart, for his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, is watchful and determined Darcy will marry her daughter. Despite this interference, Darcy eventually leaves Kent, secure in the knowledge that Miss Elizabeth is a woman he would like to come to know better. The question he is unable to answer is when he can meet her again, for their positions in society are oceans apart, and there is little opportunity for chance meetings.
But fate has other plans, for not only do they meet again, but they also encounter each other in a place that allows their love to blossom. Only the small matters of his family expectations and her condition in life stand in his way. Yet Darcy is determined to pursue Miss Elizabeth, certain in the knowledge she will make him the happiest of men.
396 pages, Hardcover
Published January 31, 2023
158 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
Jann Rowland
87 books192 followersJann Rowland is a Canadian, born and bred. Other than a two-year span in which he lived in Japan, he has been a resident of the Great White North his entire life, though he professes to still hate the winters.
Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
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Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OneGoodSonnetPub...
Twitter: @OneGoodSonnet
Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bol2p9
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 18, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars
Ending on page 496 on my Kindle. This story had no angst for me. Elizabeth and Darcy meet and develop feelings but, as in canon, Darcy argues with himself about Elizabeth's family among the usual thoughts about poor connections and having no dowry.
Elizabeth and Darcy spend months apart after having met and expressed their feelings at Rosings. They meet again when Elizabeth travels with the Gardiners to Lambton. But then again they are separated for weeks as Darcy waits for Bingley to decide which estate he will lease so as to fulfill his father's dream of becoming landed gentry. Darcy had recommended looking at Netherfield when told about it by Elizabeth.
Caroline Bingley is of a milder disposition. Wickham is gone early in the story. And the Colonel takes notice of Jane from the first day he meets her. And then there is Bingley also vying for her attention and a seat by her side.
So much attention is given to the triangle of Jane and her suitors.
Things proceeded very slowly for Darcy and Elizabeth, especially as Mrs. Bennet is loud and obnoxious in her outbursts about the men & possibilities in her daughters' lives.
Lydia goes off the Brighton but, here again the story veers from the path canon took. And in this story, although we do see Kitty making some changes as she becomes friends with Georgiana, Lydia doesn't seem to have learned much of a lesson.
This was a pleasant story but dragged for me.
Ending on page 496 on my Kindle. This story had no angst for me. Elizabeth and Darcy meet and develop feelings but, as in canon, Darcy argues with himself about Elizabeth's family among the usual thoughts about poor connections and having no dowry.
Elizabeth and Darcy spend months apart after having met and expressed their feelings at Rosings. They meet again when Elizabeth travels with the Gardiners to Lambton. But then again they are separated for weeks as Darcy waits for Bingley to decide which estate he will lease so as to fulfill his father's dream of becoming landed gentry. Darcy had recommended looking at Netherfield when told about it by Elizabeth.
Caroline Bingley is of a milder disposition. Wickham is gone early in the story. And the Colonel takes notice of Jane from the first day he meets her. And then there is Bingley also vying for her attention and a seat by her side.
So much attention is given to the triangle of Jane and her suitors.
Things proceeded very slowly for Darcy and Elizabeth, especially as Mrs. Bennet is loud and obnoxious in her outbursts about the men & possibilities in her daughters' lives.
Lydia goes off the Brighton but, here again the story veers from the path canon took. And in this story, although we do see Kitty making some changes as she becomes friends with Georgiana, Lydia doesn't seem to have learned much of a lesson.
This was a pleasant story but dragged for me.
February 3, 2023
A very sweet, slow burn of ODC falling in love. At times a bit too slow, this could definitely have been condensed to a novella and not lost any of the story.
I am a big fan of this author, but over the last few books, they have gotten a bit repetitive. Whether it is the writing style which is completely similar - to the extent that I can predict the ebb and flow of a conversation- or the fact that there is little story line. (Dude-where is the drama?!?)
Dare I say that I miss the sparkle of my faves - Bound by Love, Out of Obscurity and even the Wilds of Derbyshire?
It is a calming read, but not everyone will enjoy it.
3.5*
I am a big fan of this author, but over the last few books, they have gotten a bit repetitive. Whether it is the writing style which is completely similar - to the extent that I can predict the ebb and flow of a conversation- or the fact that there is little story line. (Dude-where is the drama?!?)
Dare I say that I miss the sparkle of my faves - Bound by Love, Out of Obscurity and even the Wilds of Derbyshire?
It is a calming read, but not everyone will enjoy it.
3.5*
March 12, 2023
In this one, Darcy meets Elizabeth at Rosings before any of the Bennets knew Bingley. There was no assembly insult so the acquaintance of our dear couple proceeds more amicably, although under Lady Catherine's watchful eye, not very demonstratively. There's a long separation afterwards as Darcy goes to Brighton with Georgiana and attempts to convince Bingley to lease Netherfield but then they meet accidentally at Pemberley. Miss Bingley has been importuned by a fortune-hunter and her demeanour has changed somewhat. Georgiana becomes good friends with Kitty. Lydia was invited to Brighton with the Forsters but Wickham had already been dealt with at this point. Jane becomes an object of interest to both Colonel Fitzwilliam and Bingley. Darcy and Elizabeth go a bit back and forth about declarations of intent or affection and about the behaviour of her family. But as it happens, the worst behaved rude potato is a member of his family, naturally.
This was a nicely crafted story with low angst. But it also has rather little of drama, tension, suspense, romantic fluff or humor... I was interested enough to finish it in a day but some of it feels a little slow.
This was a nicely crafted story with low angst. But it also has rather little of drama, tension, suspense, romantic fluff or humor... I was interested enough to finish it in a day but some of it feels a little slow.
February 20, 2023
I can’t find my notes for this. I know there were many typos and tense errors (could have been typos).
Not a lot happened. Darcy kept saying he hadn’t known Elizabeth long enough to propose. Still more not much happened.
Will not read again.
Not a lot happened. Darcy kept saying he hadn’t known Elizabeth long enough to propose. Still more not much happened.
Will not read again.
March 26, 2023
Darcy and Elizabeth don’t meet until Rosings, but he is interested from the start. Caroline Bingley knows how to hold her tongue. There is not angst, just Elizabeth being unsure Darcy can get past her crazy family.
The story is nice but it has such a slow moving pace where everything was fine.
The story is nice but it has such a slow moving pace where everything was fine.
June 20, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up.
This variation on Pride and Prejudice opens when Elizabeth has come to visit her friend Charlotte, now Mrs. Collins, in Hunsford, and she becomes acquainted with Mr. Darcy and his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam, who are staying with Lady Catherine de Bourgh, at the Rosings estate, right across the lane from the parsonage.
At this point, Darcy and Elizabeth have never met before. In that respect, it's an extreme variation on the story, mainly because it is a fairly uneventful story, though it is thoughtful and romantic. I would warn anyone who loves the fireworks between Darcy and Lizzy that this is not a book with any angst or even much conflict at all.
It's quite a long, slow-moving story, and there is some repetition of ODC's doubts and longings when they're parted from each other for a period of time. But overall it's a gentle, slow read that I would probably have enjoyed more during a period of stress or anxiety when I just needed some calm, relaxing reading for a few days. As it was, it seemed to employ a simple plot and draw it out too long. I think it could probably have been cut to two-thirds or even half its length and been a better story for it. But I did enjoy it, especially those final chapters when Jane's romance came into play, which seemed a lot less predictable, and perked up my interest.
This variation on Pride and Prejudice opens when Elizabeth has come to visit her friend Charlotte, now Mrs. Collins, in Hunsford, and she becomes acquainted with Mr. Darcy and his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam, who are staying with Lady Catherine de Bourgh, at the Rosings estate, right across the lane from the parsonage.
At this point, Darcy and Elizabeth have never met before. In that respect, it's an extreme variation on the story, mainly because it is a fairly uneventful story, though it is thoughtful and romantic. I would warn anyone who loves the fireworks between Darcy and Lizzy that this is not a book with any angst or even much conflict at all.
It's quite a long, slow-moving story, and there is some repetition of ODC's doubts and longings when they're parted from each other for a period of time. But overall it's a gentle, slow read that I would probably have enjoyed more during a period of stress or anxiety when I just needed some calm, relaxing reading for a few days. As it was, it seemed to employ a simple plot and draw it out too long. I think it could probably have been cut to two-thirds or even half its length and been a better story for it. But I did enjoy it, especially those final chapters when Jane's romance came into play, which seemed a lot less predictable, and perked up my interest.
February 2, 2023
The major pitfall of this variation was that it was far too long for such a thin plot, and as such the ending really dragged on. There was a rather annoying pivot in focus in the plot in the last 100 pages or so that I found quite frustrating to push through as it was rather boring. The first half of the book was quite enjoyable, but this was not sustained.
April 10, 2023
Low on angst
High on love and becoming more close. I liked the way the characters adjust to the changed circumstances and the interactions between them. Thoroughly enjoyable!
High on love and becoming more close. I liked the way the characters adjust to the changed circumstances and the interactions between them. Thoroughly enjoyable!
June 13, 2023
A beautiful story of romance and love.
It is always a joy to read an author with such a keen grasp of the language, costumes and customs, the atmosphere and the characters of the era. This story, though long, was exceptional and my interest never wavered.
In this variation, Elizabeth and Darcy first met at Rosings Park while Elizabeth was visiting Charlotte Collins. Their interrupted courtship held fast through all obstacles and trials.
In a separate courtship, a rivalry developed which could have proved disastrous but was handled with such finesse that all parties remained friends.
16
It is always a joy to read an author with such a keen grasp of the language, costumes and customs, the atmosphere and the characters of the era. This story, though long, was exceptional and my interest never wavered.
In this variation, Elizabeth and Darcy first met at Rosings Park while Elizabeth was visiting Charlotte Collins. Their interrupted courtship held fast through all obstacles and trials.
In a separate courtship, a rivalry developed which could have proved disastrous but was handled with such finesse that all parties remained friends.
16
February 11, 2023
Lovely
Another interesting premise and enjoyable visit in this charming variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Jann Rowland.
Another interesting premise and enjoyable visit in this charming variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Jann Rowland.
February 28, 2023
Avid Reader
It has been some time since I have read a book that was this long! At least Darcy doesn't insult Elizabeth when they first meet, and they manage to hide their feelings from Lady Catherine! Not an easy thing to do! Lydia doesn't prove to be the most difficult problem. It's Mrs. Bennet who behaves so poorly that Elizabeth is afraid that Darcy will run. Georgina won't have it! Colonel and Bingley have their eyes opened, especially Bingley. Jane proves that she is made of sterner stuff than anyone suspected. Mary is practically invisible in this book, which is sad. I would have liked an epilogue, though!
It has been some time since I have read a book that was this long! At least Darcy doesn't insult Elizabeth when they first meet, and they manage to hide their feelings from Lady Catherine! Not an easy thing to do! Lydia doesn't prove to be the most difficult problem. It's Mrs. Bennet who behaves so poorly that Elizabeth is afraid that Darcy will run. Georgina won't have it! Colonel and Bingley have their eyes opened, especially Bingley. Jane proves that she is made of sterner stuff than anyone suspected. Mary is practically invisible in this book, which is sad. I would have liked an epilogue, though!
February 17, 2023
loved the romance
Seemed a little low on angst but that was exactly what I needed. Lovely story of ODC, and I enjoyed the other departures from cannon as well.
Seemed a little low on angst but that was exactly what I needed. Lovely story of ODC, and I enjoyed the other departures from cannon as well.
February 17, 2023
Boring
The pace of the story was incredibly slow. I didn’t think it was ever going to end. The plot line was good, though.
The pace of the story was incredibly slow. I didn’t think it was ever going to end. The plot line was good, though.
Read
September 22, 2025Jann Rowland is easily one of my favorite JAFF writers, the only real complaint I have is that several books are narrated by Mary Sarah who – to me – is one of the worst narrators I’ve experienced.
So bad in fact that I started ordering print copies even of books that were available to me as audiobooks, so perhaps it is a business strategy.
I was quite pleased to discover “Something more substantial” on my audiobook app as it was longer than many of Rowland’s books. But… 10 hours and 46 minutes in, with 6 hours and 10 minutes remaining… I am throwing in the towel.
First of all, Mary Sarah’s soporific narration mixed with the odd pronunciations that make it sound like she has something stuck in her throat, is only tolerable at short intervals. Yet, by now it has taken me over a month to get through some 10+ hours and what she is narrating is almost as soporific as her voice.
Basically, this book is SO. SLOW.
At one point, I started listening, had to stop and check the time, because indeed – 22 minutes had been frittered away with just Bingley and Darcy discussing travel plans! I understand it needs to happen; I don’t need it to be narrated in real time!
In fact, most of this book is travel plans.
Darcy and Elizabeth meet in Kent at the start, that’s about 90 + minutes or so, then what follows is about 7 hours of the characters being apart and making a variety of travel plans.
Darcy comes off pretty bad as he is interested in Elizabeth, but when Col. Fitzwilliam is like “well, go get her” and “maybe she’ll meet someone else”, Darcy just shrugs and goes “nah, if she is really interested in me she won’t mind waiting four months without a word and no clue whether or not she’ll ever see me again.”
The worst part is that when in Brighton with Georgiana he sees Lydia on the street with an officer, being rather forward and foolish, he surmises her identity and immediately starts to rethink his attachment to Elizabeth because of Lydia’s behavior.
Now, in the original, at least it is her ENTIRE family (well, save Jane) for an extended period of time behaving boorishly, throwing him off. Here, with one girl who might be her sister, acting a bit silly, he comes across as a very unlikeable character for being so ready to throw off Elizabeth immediately.
I suppose I like that the book was trying to do something different with Miss Bingley, that she was almost compromised and while still interested in Darcy has a new respect for his will and desires concerning a match.
To sum up: The one thing I liked was how speedily Wickham was dealth with, otherwise I get that it is low angst and slow burn, but does that really have to mean boring? Well it does at this length I guess. I was also a bit meh, on Darcy pretty openly telling Elizabeth that he “might” propose, but that he hasn’t made up his mind yet. I get that marriage was much different then from now, but the idea that you’d go “I’m definitely interested in you and I know I am showing a really marked preference that will definitely shape the expectations of your family, but honestly, meh, I don’t know. Maybe I guess? We’ll see.” Is just pretty irritating.
All in all, I can’t stand six more hours of this waffling. I still love Rowland but this one was not for me.
So bad in fact that I started ordering print copies even of books that were available to me as audiobooks, so perhaps it is a business strategy.
I was quite pleased to discover “Something more substantial” on my audiobook app as it was longer than many of Rowland’s books. But… 10 hours and 46 minutes in, with 6 hours and 10 minutes remaining… I am throwing in the towel.
First of all, Mary Sarah’s soporific narration mixed with the odd pronunciations that make it sound like she has something stuck in her throat, is only tolerable at short intervals. Yet, by now it has taken me over a month to get through some 10+ hours and what she is narrating is almost as soporific as her voice.
Basically, this book is SO. SLOW.
At one point, I started listening, had to stop and check the time, because indeed – 22 minutes had been frittered away with just Bingley and Darcy discussing travel plans! I understand it needs to happen; I don’t need it to be narrated in real time!
In fact, most of this book is travel plans.
Darcy and Elizabeth meet in Kent at the start, that’s about 90 + minutes or so, then what follows is about 7 hours of the characters being apart and making a variety of travel plans.
Darcy comes off pretty bad as he is interested in Elizabeth, but when Col. Fitzwilliam is like “well, go get her” and “maybe she’ll meet someone else”, Darcy just shrugs and goes “nah, if she is really interested in me she won’t mind waiting four months without a word and no clue whether or not she’ll ever see me again.”
The worst part is that when in Brighton with Georgiana he sees Lydia on the street with an officer, being rather forward and foolish, he surmises her identity and immediately starts to rethink his attachment to Elizabeth because of Lydia’s behavior.
Now, in the original, at least it is her ENTIRE family (well, save Jane) for an extended period of time behaving boorishly, throwing him off. Here, with one girl who might be her sister, acting a bit silly, he comes across as a very unlikeable character for being so ready to throw off Elizabeth immediately.
I suppose I like that the book was trying to do something different with Miss Bingley, that she was almost compromised and while still interested in Darcy has a new respect for his will and desires concerning a match.
To sum up: The one thing I liked was how speedily Wickham was dealth with, otherwise I get that it is low angst and slow burn, but does that really have to mean boring? Well it does at this length I guess. I was also a bit meh, on Darcy pretty openly telling Elizabeth that he “might” propose, but that he hasn’t made up his mind yet. I get that marriage was much different then from now, but the idea that you’d go “I’m definitely interested in you and I know I am showing a really marked preference that will definitely shape the expectations of your family, but honestly, meh, I don’t know. Maybe I guess? We’ll see.” Is just pretty irritating.
All in all, I can’t stand six more hours of this waffling. I still love Rowland but this one was not for me.
February 17, 2025
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. In the classic original, Elizabeth Bennet meets Fitzwilliam Darcy in Meryton, where Mr. Darcy’s concern for his sister and general reticence leads him to insult her. But what if Mr. Darcy did not meet her there, instead making her acquaintance in other circumstances more favorable to their understanding?
When she visits Rosings Park and her friend, Charlotte Collins, Elizabeth does so with no notion that Fitzwilliam Darcy even exists, for Netherfield Park remained empty the previous autumn. As is his custom, Mr. Darcy comes to Rosings in his cousin’s company, and there he meets a young lady unlike any he has ever met.
Rosings itself is not a place where he can conduct any sort of campaign to win the fair maiden’s heart, for his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, is watchful and determined Darcy will marry her daughter. Despite this interference, Darcy eventually leaves Kent, secure in the knowledge that Miss Elizabeth is a woman he would like to come to know better. The question he is unable to answer is when he can meet her again, for their positions in society are oceans apart, and there is little opportunity for chance meetings.
But fate has other plans, for not only do they meet again, but they also encounter each other in a place that allows their love to blossom. Only the small matters of his family expectations and her condition in life stand in his way. Yet Darcy is determined to pursue Miss Elizabeth, certain in the knowledge she will make him the happiest of men. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. In the classic original, Elizabeth Bennet meets Fitzwilliam Darcy in Meryton, where Mr. Darcy’s concern for his sister and general reticence leads him to insult her. But what if Mr. Darcy did not meet her there, instead making her acquaintance in other circumstances more favorable to their understanding?
When she visits Rosings Park and her friend, Charlotte Collins, Elizabeth does so with no notion that Fitzwilliam Darcy even exists, for Netherfield Park remained empty the previous autumn. As is his custom, Mr. Darcy comes to Rosings in his cousin’s company, and there he meets a young lady unlike any he has ever met.
Rosings itself is not a place where he can conduct any sort of campaign to win the fair maiden’s heart, for his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, is watchful and determined Darcy will marry her daughter. Despite this interference, Darcy eventually leaves Kent, secure in the knowledge that Miss Elizabeth is a woman he would like to come to know better. The question he is unable to answer is when he can meet her again, for their positions in society are oceans apart, and there is little opportunity for chance meetings.
But fate has other plans, for not only do they meet again, but they also encounter each other in a place that allows their love to blossom. Only the small matters of his family expectations and her condition in life stand in his way. Yet Darcy is determined to pursue Miss Elizabeth, certain in the knowledge she will make him the happiest of men. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
February 26, 2023
Wonderful
Another wonderful creation from Mr Rowland, an author who has become an automatic purchase for me. Elizabeth first meets Mr Darcy when she's visiting Charlotte Collins at Hunsford parsonage. Darcy is much more receptive to Elizabeth's charms, and definitely wants to know her better. However, he is forced to proceed with caution while under the watchful eyes of Lady Catherine. It's not until Elizabeth travels to Derbyshire with the Gardiners that she and Darcy are reunited, and there courtship proceeds quickly in the more friendly environment.
The author has made enough significant alterations to the main characters that the outcomes are not too predictable. Kitty Bennett has a significant role. Jane Bennett has a lot more substance and backbone. Mr Bennett steps up in a small way. Bingley has some difficult lessons to learn, as does Mrs Bennett. There are plenty of interesting twists to make the story fresh and engaging.
I deducted a star because the story is pretty bland. This is much lower angst than many of Mr Rowland's tales. The villains, Lady Catherine and Wickham, are both dealt with handily, without much fuss. However, the romance is lovely, and the story kept my interest from start to finish. I recommend it highly.
Another wonderful creation from Mr Rowland, an author who has become an automatic purchase for me. Elizabeth first meets Mr Darcy when she's visiting Charlotte Collins at Hunsford parsonage. Darcy is much more receptive to Elizabeth's charms, and definitely wants to know her better. However, he is forced to proceed with caution while under the watchful eyes of Lady Catherine. It's not until Elizabeth travels to Derbyshire with the Gardiners that she and Darcy are reunited, and there courtship proceeds quickly in the more friendly environment.
The author has made enough significant alterations to the main characters that the outcomes are not too predictable. Kitty Bennett has a significant role. Jane Bennett has a lot more substance and backbone. Mr Bennett steps up in a small way. Bingley has some difficult lessons to learn, as does Mrs Bennett. There are plenty of interesting twists to make the story fresh and engaging.
I deducted a star because the story is pretty bland. This is much lower angst than many of Mr Rowland's tales. The villains, Lady Catherine and Wickham, are both dealt with handily, without much fuss. However, the romance is lovely, and the story kept my interest from start to finish. I recommend it highly.
February 20, 2023
Long, but Nice
I have long enjoyed Mr Rowland's works. This one seemed to ramble a little more than others, but it truly is a nice read. Elizabeth and Darcy meet at Rosings the spring after Charlotte and Mr Collins marry. He sees in her something he wanted to find, someone who liked him for his person not his purse.
But courting under the gaze or radar of Lady Catherine was bound to cause problems, so they parted ways until whenever, perhaps the fall. It actually turned out to be the summer, when Elizabeth visited Derbyshire with her sister, uncle, and aunt. This meeting convinced Darcy that he wanted to pursue a closer relationship with Elizabeth. Unfortunately, their next meeting would be in Hertfordshire, under the gaze of Mrs Bennet! Yikes!
The secondary storyline was about Colonel Fitzwilliam and his pursuit of Jane, at the same time as Mr Bingley was falling for his 'angel'. This was actually more interesting. I love a variation where Jane gets a man full grown instead of a puppy. Even Miss Bingley is more palatable.
Hence, long, but nice.
I have long enjoyed Mr Rowland's works. This one seemed to ramble a little more than others, but it truly is a nice read. Elizabeth and Darcy meet at Rosings the spring after Charlotte and Mr Collins marry. He sees in her something he wanted to find, someone who liked him for his person not his purse.
But courting under the gaze or radar of Lady Catherine was bound to cause problems, so they parted ways until whenever, perhaps the fall. It actually turned out to be the summer, when Elizabeth visited Derbyshire with her sister, uncle, and aunt. This meeting convinced Darcy that he wanted to pursue a closer relationship with Elizabeth. Unfortunately, their next meeting would be in Hertfordshire, under the gaze of Mrs Bennet! Yikes!
The secondary storyline was about Colonel Fitzwilliam and his pursuit of Jane, at the same time as Mr Bingley was falling for his 'angel'. This was actually more interesting. I love a variation where Jane gets a man full grown instead of a puppy. Even Miss Bingley is more palatable.
Hence, long, but nice.
April 2, 2023
An enjoyable read of another variation, this time Darcy doesn't insult Lizzy because he doesn't go to Netherfield before Rosings. Meeting for the first time while seeing the formidable Lady Catherine, Darcy and Lizzy find that connection they weren't looking for, but because Lizzy is aware of Lady Catherine's "dream engagement" and Darcy doesn't want his aunt coming down on the gentlewoman he's beginning to regard, they carefully tread the line of duty but nothing more. At least until they can meet again without Lady Catherine's hovering. Of course, many months pass before this can happen, and neither knows when they'll met up again.
The only thing I think this story seemed to struggle with was the pace - just didn't move fast enough for me! lol I suppose that works in its favor, since Darcy and Lizzy have to bide their time until they can get together. But something I know about Mr. Rowland's books are that they are long and full of wonderful plots, and if you're patient enough you'll get a fulfilling treat at the end.
The only thing I think this story seemed to struggle with was the pace - just didn't move fast enough for me! lol I suppose that works in its favor, since Darcy and Lizzy have to bide their time until they can get together. But something I know about Mr. Rowland's books are that they are long and full of wonderful plots, and if you're patient enough you'll get a fulfilling treat at the end.
February 13, 2023
Wonderful adaptation
This story changes a small amount from the original story. Elizabeth meets Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam in Kent and they become friends without the angst and misunderstanding of the original. Darcy's friends with Bingley and suggested that he lease Netherfield after they all meet at Pemberley. Much of the story revolves around the changes in several characters - Caroline Bingley has a near compromise which causes her to reflect on her behavior towards Darcy. Lydia isn't as popular in Brighton as she expected. Kitty enjoys traveling with her sister and the Gardiners to Derbyshire and learns from Georgiana. Charles Bingley learns his adoration of Miss Bennet isn't enough to turn her head. And the Bennet parents learn how to change their behaviors to not embarrass their children and how to stop interfering.
Its enjoyable experience and worth the time to read it!
This story changes a small amount from the original story. Elizabeth meets Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam in Kent and they become friends without the angst and misunderstanding of the original. Darcy's friends with Bingley and suggested that he lease Netherfield after they all meet at Pemberley. Much of the story revolves around the changes in several characters - Caroline Bingley has a near compromise which causes her to reflect on her behavior towards Darcy. Lydia isn't as popular in Brighton as she expected. Kitty enjoys traveling with her sister and the Gardiners to Derbyshire and learns from Georgiana. Charles Bingley learns his adoration of Miss Bennet isn't enough to turn her head. And the Bennet parents learn how to change their behaviors to not embarrass their children and how to stop interfering.
Its enjoyable experience and worth the time to read it!
February 16, 2023
Sweet and Straightforward
Version with the timeline altered. In this, ODC meet at Hunsford. Their courtship grows more serious when the Gardiners vacation in Derbyshire. Everything comes to a point when Netherfield is rented. We are also given a lovely friendship between Georgiana and Kitty, and a rivalry between Bingley and Col. Fitzwilliam for Jane's Affections.
All the villians are in some way disposed of early. Wickham is arrested and deported. Collins is a non sequitor, left behingd in Hunsford. Caroline has reformed due to a shocking experience. Lady Catherine gives up after a single confrontation.
All these factors contribute to a sweet, straightforward story.
Version with the timeline altered. In this, ODC meet at Hunsford. Their courtship grows more serious when the Gardiners vacation in Derbyshire. Everything comes to a point when Netherfield is rented. We are also given a lovely friendship between Georgiana and Kitty, and a rivalry between Bingley and Col. Fitzwilliam for Jane's Affections.
All the villians are in some way disposed of early. Wickham is arrested and deported. Collins is a non sequitor, left behingd in Hunsford. Caroline has reformed due to a shocking experience. Lady Catherine gives up after a single confrontation.
All these factors contribute to a sweet, straightforward story.
March 5, 2023
Substantial indeed.
Whilst there is a certain rambling aspect to the novel, charm lies in the gentle unfolding of the narrative. We see the characters develop over time, as much apart as they are together.
The plot keeps in loose touch with the original, the premise of “what if Darcy and Elizabeth met under different circumstances” changes the import and direction of the narrative. Without the insult at Meryton Assembly, their relationship begins without friction, pride or prejudice. This is a low angst variation. Most disasters are averted and almost all characters change for the better.
Whilst there is a certain rambling aspect to the novel, charm lies in the gentle unfolding of the narrative. We see the characters develop over time, as much apart as they are together.
The plot keeps in loose touch with the original, the premise of “what if Darcy and Elizabeth met under different circumstances” changes the import and direction of the narrative. Without the insult at Meryton Assembly, their relationship begins without friction, pride or prejudice. This is a low angst variation. Most disasters are averted and almost all characters change for the better.
February 19, 2023
Not surprised of another good read
Tastefully written and laugh out loud moments. Elizabeth is all the good qualities and some stubbornness but not the tedious style that prolongs the storyline.
Darcy is the same but humanized to show his frailties, pride, arrogance, and humor.
I love Georgina - she grows and develops with family’s love and compassion. The changes in the storyline are believable and stay to the dictates of the time period.
I had a hard time leaving this story for the next day. I recommend this story.
Tastefully written and laugh out loud moments. Elizabeth is all the good qualities and some stubbornness but not the tedious style that prolongs the storyline.
Darcy is the same but humanized to show his frailties, pride, arrogance, and humor.
I love Georgina - she grows and develops with family’s love and compassion. The changes in the storyline are believable and stay to the dictates of the time period.
I had a hard time leaving this story for the next day. I recommend this story.
February 23, 2023
Sweet Romance 3.5 Stars
- Darcy and Elizabeth's romance truly begins at Pemberley. This was the best part of the book.
- Darcy is more open and unashamed. I like this version of Darcy.
- A couple of times, Elizabeth showed a vulnerable side.
- Mr. Bennet, Mrs. Bennet, and Lydia made some improvements, but they are who they are.
- I like that Caroline was altered, but not perfect. She still has lofty goals, but learned to be more careful with her words, and accept what she can't control.
- The other characters were fine in their supporting roles.
- Darcy and Elizabeth's romance truly begins at Pemberley. This was the best part of the book.
- Darcy is more open and unashamed. I like this version of Darcy.
- A couple of times, Elizabeth showed a vulnerable side.
- Mr. Bennet, Mrs. Bennet, and Lydia made some improvements, but they are who they are.
- I like that Caroline was altered, but not perfect. She still has lofty goals, but learned to be more careful with her words, and accept what she can't control.
- The other characters were fine in their supporting roles.
March 10, 2023
repetitious and slow moving
Well edited for mechanics, but needs some plot editing to move the story along better. I got tired of reading about Darcy's indecision with regards to whether he wanted to marry Elizabeth or not. Too much attention was given to Jane's story. The Jane/Col Fitzwilliam story should be a separate novel. Bingley,'s downfall was believable, but Caroline's and Lydia's sudden changes for the better were not. I gave it 3 stars for mechanics but really a 2 for plot and characterization. I rounded it up to a 3 because it was better than some P&P fanfics.
Well edited for mechanics, but needs some plot editing to move the story along better. I got tired of reading about Darcy's indecision with regards to whether he wanted to marry Elizabeth or not. Too much attention was given to Jane's story. The Jane/Col Fitzwilliam story should be a separate novel. Bingley,'s downfall was believable, but Caroline's and Lydia's sudden changes for the better were not. I gave it 3 stars for mechanics but really a 2 for plot and characterization. I rounded it up to a 3 because it was better than some P&P fanfics.
August 20, 2023
*4.5*
I actually loved this version of the story a lot more. And I believe it was because it took place away from Elizabeth's family. And because of that there were no misunderstandings like in the original story.
I also really liked Kitty in this story because she was far less annoying away from Lydia. And in the presence of Georgiana and her manners.
I wasn't so happy about Jane ending up with the Colonel and not Bingley. But with that said, I wasn't the biggest fan of Mr. Bingley in this version.
I actually loved this version of the story a lot more. And I believe it was because it took place away from Elizabeth's family. And because of that there were no misunderstandings like in the original story.
I also really liked Kitty in this story because she was far less annoying away from Lydia. And in the presence of Georgiana and her manners.
I wasn't so happy about Jane ending up with the Colonel and not Bingley. But with that said, I wasn't the biggest fan of Mr. Bingley in this version.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2023
Absolutely Delightful!
5 Easy Stars for a sweetly compelling and almost zero angst story. Especially fun was all of the character growth and or villain removal before true harm came to anyone of any importance. It's always delightful to read a compelling romance story that is truly about the romance itself. I also love it when Jane is strong enough to stand up for herself, Mrs B learns to be quieter, and Kitty becomes independent of Lydia.
5 Easy Stars for a sweetly compelling and almost zero angst story. Especially fun was all of the character growth and or villain removal before true harm came to anyone of any importance. It's always delightful to read a compelling romance story that is truly about the romance itself. I also love it when Jane is strong enough to stand up for herself, Mrs B learns to be quieter, and Kitty becomes independent of Lydia.
March 17, 2024
Jann Rowland is a favorite of mine. But this book was not what I've come to expect. That said, this what I did like about the book:
The premise was good. I liked the twists the characters took from canon.
However what I did not like was the slow, almost cautiously thought out element to scene. And the book was so long. So much could have been condensed, while still delivering the same message.
The premise was good. I liked the twists the characters took from canon.
However what I did not like was the slow, almost cautiously thought out element to scene. And the book was so long. So much could have been condensed, while still delivering the same message.
February 22, 2023
Happy, but long
I don’t mind light-hearted variations, and that’s what this was. However, the removal of Wickham and any misunderstanding between the two main characters means there was no conflict to resolve. This just made the story unnecessarily long. It was a pleasant read, but didn’t rank within my favorite variations.
I don’t mind light-hearted variations, and that’s what this was. However, the removal of Wickham and any misunderstanding between the two main characters means there was no conflict to resolve. This just made the story unnecessarily long. It was a pleasant read, but didn’t rank within my favorite variations.
February 24, 2023
good Jann Rowland
Though the story always remains essentially the same, some twists here and there add spice to,the stories. Elizabeth and Darcy meet at the Collin’s home and continue their courtship,in many locations. Of corse they marry. This time Janet marries Colonel Fitzwilliam. All ends happily.
Though the story always remains essentially the same, some twists here and there add spice to,the stories. Elizabeth and Darcy meet at the Collin’s home and continue their courtship,in many locations. Of corse they marry. This time Janet marries Colonel Fitzwilliam. All ends happily.
February 27, 2023
Imressed
I have read several of his novels. In his longer ones, I have found myself skimming over longer passages of description and other supporting details. Not so, on this one. Entertaining from beginning to end, the was a good story with minimum angst. The characters were well-developed and the story gave many indepth interactions between the characters. Recommend.
I have read several of his novels. In his longer ones, I have found myself skimming over longer passages of description and other supporting details. Not so, on this one. Entertaining from beginning to end, the was a good story with minimum angst. The characters were well-developed and the story gave many indepth interactions between the characters. Recommend.
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