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The Darcy Saga #3
Darcys at Year's End
"I love you, my Elizabeth. You are my soul, my blood and bone, my very life." The quest to meld as one is realized. The two have become one soul, and together they travel down the pathway of life. The tale of matrimonial happily-ever-after began in Two Shall Become One
503 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2008
103 people are currently reading
1505 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Lathan
20 books387 followersSharon Lathan is the best-selling author of The Darcy Saga, a 10-volume sequel series to Jane Austen’s "Pride & Prejudice."
Sharon began writing in 2006 and her first novel, Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: Two Shall Become One was published in 2009.
Sharon is a native Californian relocated in 2013 to the green hills of Kentucky, where she resides with her husband of over thirty years. Retired from a thirty-year profession as a registered nurse in Neonatal Intensive Care, Sharon is pursuing her dream as a full-time writer.
Sharon is the co-creator of AUSTEN AUTHORS, a group blog for authors of Austenesque literary fiction.
Visit at: www.AustenAuthors.net
For more information about Sharon, the Regency Era, and her novels, visit her website/blog at: www.SharonLathanAuthor.com.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SharonLathanNovelist
Twitter: www.twitter.com/SharonLathan
Instagram: www.instagram.com/authorsharonlathan
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/sharonlathan62/_saved/
Sharon began writing in 2006 and her first novel, Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: Two Shall Become One was published in 2009.
Sharon is a native Californian relocated in 2013 to the green hills of Kentucky, where she resides with her husband of over thirty years. Retired from a thirty-year profession as a registered nurse in Neonatal Intensive Care, Sharon is pursuing her dream as a full-time writer.
Sharon is the co-creator of AUSTEN AUTHORS, a group blog for authors of Austenesque literary fiction.
Visit at: www.AustenAuthors.net
For more information about Sharon, the Regency Era, and her novels, visit her website/blog at: www.SharonLathanAuthor.com.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SharonLathanNovelist
Twitter: www.twitter.com/SharonLathan
Instagram: www.instagram.com/authorsharonlathan
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/sharonlathan62/_saved/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
July 6, 2012
I read all five novels of the Darcy Saga in pretty much one go over the space of a week and as a result I find it easier to critique as a whole set rather than individually so this review covers all the five novels although I will assign a rating to each book:
1. Mr. & Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy
2. Loving Mr. Darcy
3. My Dearest Mr. Darcy
4. In the Arms of Mr. Darcy
5. The Trouble with Mr. Darcy
First of all, this book is for the hopeless romantics who want nothing more than to revel in detail in Lizzy's and Darcy's relationship post engagement. The forward to the first book unapologetically states that the author's introduction to Pride & Prejudice occurred with the 2005 movie and while she has since then read the original piece she has chosen to utilize the movie adaptation as her starting point so some details referred to are not from the novel but the changes are cosmetic.
I do not have issues with the author's level of writing skill so much. There's a fine line for me between where I fall into the story easily enough and where I find the poor writing to constantly intrude on my consciousness as I imagine myself through the story and these novels crossed the threshold fairly easily. That said, I never want to hear the word "stupendous" in my life ever again. Yes, adjectives abound as others have commented, but for some reason stupendousness rose above everything and by the third book it was like itching a mosquito bite; every time I encountered it I was irritated.
I am of two minds about the enormous proportion of love-making in the novels. I imagine 70% of the 5 novels put together is composed of nothing but their passionate and undying declarations of love for each other and amorous love-making. That said, there was no scene that felt distasteful or simply pornographic and gratuitous. It was very much newlywed bliss. However, two years on and having sex morning, noon and night in every room, every sheltered field, nearly every day through two pregnancies actually becomes mind-mumbing toward the end. It is quite romantic but the extended sustained pace eventually starts to beggar belief. I would not recommend these books to single people who are bitter about their status as no actual living, breathing human being will ever live up to the expectations or a relationship this book will set for you!
It is true that there is very little plot but again the author is not really apologetic as she has set out to chronicle the marriage, which does not always have a plot like every good novel should, but she has tried to inject a sense of drama into each book. The results are a a bit uneven. Whatever parts of the novel are not occupied by love-making are primarily relationship driven. The marriage is chronicled in GREAT detail, with Lizzy getting pregnant in the first novel and not delivering her child until the third! The first two books are quite similar - floating along evenly until the very end when some sort of crisis is reached requiring Darcy to rescue Lizzy. In fact, while I love the level of detail of the locations demonstrating the research, the third quarter of book 2 describing the daily journeying of their holiday nearly bored me until it was time for the 11th hour crisis.
The third book probably meandered most of all, with no particular focus of event other than the birth of their first child. It is probably saved by the developing characters involved in their life - the rounding out of Col. Fitzwilliam, Georgianna, the other Bennet sisters (Mary and Kitty) and the exploration of Darcy's uncle, George. This continues into the fourth book, where Kitty particularly begins to bloom into a three dimensional character. It is only the fifth book, however, that actually manages to introduce and to keep tension steady throughout, with classic foreshadowing and plot driven storytelling. The fifth was probably my favourite for this reason.
My biggest disappointment, however, is the author's abandonment of Jane Bingley (nee Bennet). While she certainly features as Lizzy's sister, carries on dialogue and even has some intimate conversations with Lizzy, we are never taken into her confidence in the same manner as we are with every other character. Even if only briefly, we become privy to the inner thoughts of Mary at the point of her courtship, and are given a startling insight into Kitty's maturation. We glimpse the evolution of Caroline Bingley. Col. Fitzwilliam's private turmoil is revealed in the 4th book. Even Wickham's own inner twisted logic is shown to us. However, the author never lets us see Jane other than through the eyes of another person and by the time I finished the 5th novel I was left with the feeling that Jane was left as a complete stranger to me. I am frankly shocked at this omission.
1. Mr. & Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy
2. Loving Mr. Darcy
3. My Dearest Mr. Darcy
4. In the Arms of Mr. Darcy
5. The Trouble with Mr. Darcy
First of all, this book is for the hopeless romantics who want nothing more than to revel in detail in Lizzy's and Darcy's relationship post engagement. The forward to the first book unapologetically states that the author's introduction to Pride & Prejudice occurred with the 2005 movie and while she has since then read the original piece she has chosen to utilize the movie adaptation as her starting point so some details referred to are not from the novel but the changes are cosmetic.
I do not have issues with the author's level of writing skill so much. There's a fine line for me between where I fall into the story easily enough and where I find the poor writing to constantly intrude on my consciousness as I imagine myself through the story and these novels crossed the threshold fairly easily. That said, I never want to hear the word "stupendous" in my life ever again. Yes, adjectives abound as others have commented, but for some reason stupendousness rose above everything and by the third book it was like itching a mosquito bite; every time I encountered it I was irritated.
I am of two minds about the enormous proportion of love-making in the novels. I imagine 70% of the 5 novels put together is composed of nothing but their passionate and undying declarations of love for each other and amorous love-making. That said, there was no scene that felt distasteful or simply pornographic and gratuitous. It was very much newlywed bliss. However, two years on and having sex morning, noon and night in every room, every sheltered field, nearly every day through two pregnancies actually becomes mind-mumbing toward the end. It is quite romantic but the extended sustained pace eventually starts to beggar belief. I would not recommend these books to single people who are bitter about their status as no actual living, breathing human being will ever live up to the expectations or a relationship this book will set for you!
It is true that there is very little plot but again the author is not really apologetic as she has set out to chronicle the marriage, which does not always have a plot like every good novel should, but she has tried to inject a sense of drama into each book. The results are a a bit uneven. Whatever parts of the novel are not occupied by love-making are primarily relationship driven. The marriage is chronicled in GREAT detail, with Lizzy getting pregnant in the first novel and not delivering her child until the third! The first two books are quite similar - floating along evenly until the very end when some sort of crisis is reached requiring Darcy to rescue Lizzy. In fact, while I love the level of detail of the locations demonstrating the research, the third quarter of book 2 describing the daily journeying of their holiday nearly bored me until it was time for the 11th hour crisis.
The third book probably meandered most of all, with no particular focus of event other than the birth of their first child. It is probably saved by the developing characters involved in their life - the rounding out of Col. Fitzwilliam, Georgianna, the other Bennet sisters (Mary and Kitty) and the exploration of Darcy's uncle, George. This continues into the fourth book, where Kitty particularly begins to bloom into a three dimensional character. It is only the fifth book, however, that actually manages to introduce and to keep tension steady throughout, with classic foreshadowing and plot driven storytelling. The fifth was probably my favourite for this reason.
My biggest disappointment, however, is the author's abandonment of Jane Bingley (nee Bennet). While she certainly features as Lizzy's sister, carries on dialogue and even has some intimate conversations with Lizzy, we are never taken into her confidence in the same manner as we are with every other character. Even if only briefly, we become privy to the inner thoughts of Mary at the point of her courtship, and are given a startling insight into Kitty's maturation. We glimpse the evolution of Caroline Bingley. Col. Fitzwilliam's private turmoil is revealed in the 4th book. Even Wickham's own inner twisted logic is shown to us. However, the author never lets us see Jane other than through the eyes of another person and by the time I finished the 5th novel I was left with the feeling that Jane was left as a complete stranger to me. I am frankly shocked at this omission.
July 31, 2021
Better
Reviewed in Canada on July 16, 2019
This book was much better than the last of this saga series. After the trials Elizabeth endured through two books with her pregnancy, I was happy when the time finally came. Darcy as a father is delightful. Uncle George is a favorite character in this series. Personality plus!
Reviewed in Canada on July 16, 2019
This book was much better than the last of this saga series. After the trials Elizabeth endured through two books with her pregnancy, I was happy when the time finally came. Darcy as a father is delightful. Uncle George is a favorite character in this series. Personality plus!
August 5, 2021
This is one of those stories I read before I retired and began reviewing every book I read. I do want to reread all those stories which I did not review but as time has slipped by and I haven't done so, I just want to mark all those stories as "read" so I have a record of the true number of books in the JAFF sub-genre I have read. I am using the average rating at this time as I do not remember how I rated this story back when I read it. If I ever get around to rereading it I will look at my rating to make sure it is true to my opinion. It was published in 2008 (and I the paperback with the original cover) so that is most likely when I read it.
December 20, 2019
I studied French for six years under the regime of a strict, French teacher (who was actually from France) while growing up in Dubai. I also took part in three French exchange programs. I was fluent. Then I stopped practicing when I moved to Budapest. Three-and-a-half years later, I feel like I've forgotten everything and that breaks my heart. So I got this book. I've listened to it twice (and only just realized there is a part two *embarrassing*).
His approach to learning languages is so applicable! Unlike traditional learning methods of just memorizing a bunch of colors, numbers, objects, and then trying to put them together and still be grammatically correct. Highly recommend.
I'll be getting my french back, mark my words!
His approach to learning languages is so applicable! Unlike traditional learning methods of just memorizing a bunch of colors, numbers, objects, and then trying to put them together and still be grammatically correct. Highly recommend.
I'll be getting my french back, mark my words!
November 4, 2018
Entire series reviewed here - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
July 26, 2011
The extraordinary love and romance of Darcy and Lizzy continues in this third book of Ms. Lathan’s Darcy Saga, and this time we experience their passionate love affair up close and personal, spending more time with this wonderful couple on their own instead of surrounded by family and friends, though we still get a good dose of the intriguing Darcy and Bennet families.
The best part of this series for me is the way Darcy is becoming more and more outgoing because of his wife and his love for her. Lizzy is a natural when it comes to wit and socializing, her intelligence shining, and people gravitate to her just to be part of what she has to offer. Though Darcy is reticent about mixing in crowds of any kind, he is learning little by little how to let go and revel in the small enjoyments in life. I thoroughly enjoyed his scavenger hunt for Lizzy on her birthday, totally endearing and romantic. Darcy is definitely growing into himself.
A trip to the ocean turns out to be relaxing and also quite romantic for the Darcys. They spend a week doing nothing but lazing about the shore, making friends, swimming, taking fun side trips, and, of course, making love whenever the mood strikes. Ms. Lathan has done an extremely terrific job in her research, as is shown by not only the wealth of historical information in this book but also shown by the little nuggets of detail that make Darcy and Lizzy’s trip that much more interesting. There are other lesser trips too, but this particular one is a main part of the story and my favorite.
Of course, there is much concerning Lizzy’s pregnancy throughout the book, and once again it’s Darcy who pulls at the heartstrings. Like Lizzy, I fell more in love with the man every time he speaks to his son as he caresses Lizzy’s rounded belly, every time he rubs her back when he knows she hurts after a long day, every time he tells his wife how much he loves her for giving him such a precious gift.
And when the big day arrives bringing Baby Darcy into the world, Darcy again is right there for Lizzy, doing anything and everything necessary for her and their son during a very long labor. Another favorite part of the story for me is the aftermath of the baby’s birth, Lizzy and Darcy counting fingers and toes, not able to take their eyes off of him, Darcy cooing in that voice we all use when holding an infant, Lizzy nervous about leaving her son even for the length of dinnertime, and a whole host of other similarly delightful tidbits.
Darcy and Elizabeth’s families are well represented at different points in the book, with Darcy’s Uncle George being the main draw for me. He is one of those larger-than-life characters you can’t help but like. The scenes between him and Darcy are extra special, as are those when he delivers the baby. I hope he’s a character that will continue to pop in and out throughout the rest of the series.
As terrific as the historical aspect of this series is, as fun as it is having Darcy family and friends together for whatever reason, as intriguing as the mishaps, little tiffs, and other circumstances throughout are, it’s the love, the romance between these two characters that outshines it all, and Ms. Lathan has kept that front and center and kept it true to these characters who are loved the world over. Darcy and Lizzy are the epitome of that love and romance as Ms. Lathan first envisioned them and has now written them in her interpretation of their life together. I doubt anyone could have done it much better. Not even Jane Austen herself.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
The best part of this series for me is the way Darcy is becoming more and more outgoing because of his wife and his love for her. Lizzy is a natural when it comes to wit and socializing, her intelligence shining, and people gravitate to her just to be part of what she has to offer. Though Darcy is reticent about mixing in crowds of any kind, he is learning little by little how to let go and revel in the small enjoyments in life. I thoroughly enjoyed his scavenger hunt for Lizzy on her birthday, totally endearing and romantic. Darcy is definitely growing into himself.
A trip to the ocean turns out to be relaxing and also quite romantic for the Darcys. They spend a week doing nothing but lazing about the shore, making friends, swimming, taking fun side trips, and, of course, making love whenever the mood strikes. Ms. Lathan has done an extremely terrific job in her research, as is shown by not only the wealth of historical information in this book but also shown by the little nuggets of detail that make Darcy and Lizzy’s trip that much more interesting. There are other lesser trips too, but this particular one is a main part of the story and my favorite.
Of course, there is much concerning Lizzy’s pregnancy throughout the book, and once again it’s Darcy who pulls at the heartstrings. Like Lizzy, I fell more in love with the man every time he speaks to his son as he caresses Lizzy’s rounded belly, every time he rubs her back when he knows she hurts after a long day, every time he tells his wife how much he loves her for giving him such a precious gift.
And when the big day arrives bringing Baby Darcy into the world, Darcy again is right there for Lizzy, doing anything and everything necessary for her and their son during a very long labor. Another favorite part of the story for me is the aftermath of the baby’s birth, Lizzy and Darcy counting fingers and toes, not able to take their eyes off of him, Darcy cooing in that voice we all use when holding an infant, Lizzy nervous about leaving her son even for the length of dinnertime, and a whole host of other similarly delightful tidbits.
Darcy and Elizabeth’s families are well represented at different points in the book, with Darcy’s Uncle George being the main draw for me. He is one of those larger-than-life characters you can’t help but like. The scenes between him and Darcy are extra special, as are those when he delivers the baby. I hope he’s a character that will continue to pop in and out throughout the rest of the series.
As terrific as the historical aspect of this series is, as fun as it is having Darcy family and friends together for whatever reason, as intriguing as the mishaps, little tiffs, and other circumstances throughout are, it’s the love, the romance between these two characters that outshines it all, and Ms. Lathan has kept that front and center and kept it true to these characters who are loved the world over. Darcy and Lizzy are the epitome of that love and romance as Ms. Lathan first envisioned them and has now written them in her interpretation of their life together. I doubt anyone could have done it much better. Not even Jane Austen herself.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
January 6, 2010
Elizabeth and Darcy's first year of marriage is coming to an end and they both are finding that they are more in love with each other then they ever thought. But Darcy learns that there are still many things to learn about Elizabeth and that he can still be surprised.
The Darcy Saga is another first for me. It's the third book in the series, but definitely easy to follow. Loving Pride and Prejudice myself, I have to say read this story was a treat. Revisiting such beloved characters, peaking in on what their life has brought them. A heartfelt enjoyable story filled with passion and warmth. Beautifully written. You can tell just how much the author loves the story and the characters. If your a fan of Pride and Prejudice and ever wondered what happen to Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy after the book ended, The Darcy Saga is the perfect series to indulge in.
The Darcy Saga is another first for me. It's the third book in the series, but definitely easy to follow. Loving Pride and Prejudice myself, I have to say read this story was a treat. Revisiting such beloved characters, peaking in on what their life has brought them. A heartfelt enjoyable story filled with passion and warmth. Beautifully written. You can tell just how much the author loves the story and the characters. If your a fan of Pride and Prejudice and ever wondered what happen to Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy after the book ended, The Darcy Saga is the perfect series to indulge in.
January 3, 2010
I happen to be a real fan of Sharon Lathan's novels and writing style. Honestly, I feel very comfortable with her writing, and trust in the sentence structure to carry me through a beautiful story. It is interesting to me how her personal voice adds that second level to the romantic story, making it even sweeter. The experiences that Darcy and Elizabeth share are fun to witness, and although the birth of the baby seems to take an agonizingly long time to get to, there is a "real time" feeling about the story. There really isn't a complication to be resolved, outside of the birth of the baby, so much of our reading time is spent in high anticipation for the big moment. We get to trip along with the Darcys, viewing their loving relationship like a great voyeur, reveling in their breathless love and happiness. After all, who doesn't want a relationship filled with such depths of love and devotion? Yes, it touched off my romantic side. Sigh. Once again, the novel does have scenes of a sensual nature, but not as graphic as in many romance novels today.
As always, I loved reading Lathan's third novel. The joy in this read is in the ramblings down seaside coasts and forest trails; the joy comes in the love and the pain. In some very simple ways, lovers of Pride and Prejudice have already imagined such sweet and loving scenes as painted for us in the pages of these novels, but here we get to sit back and enjoy their story as it unfolds. I really felt that this novel started to feel more like they were starting to slip into their settled roles, yet still filled with love. I enjoyed watching them relax into their marriage, and continue down the path towards becoming a great family. This was a great third installment, and I can already hardly wait for the fourth!
As always, I loved reading Lathan's third novel. The joy in this read is in the ramblings down seaside coasts and forest trails; the joy comes in the love and the pain. In some very simple ways, lovers of Pride and Prejudice have already imagined such sweet and loving scenes as painted for us in the pages of these novels, but here we get to sit back and enjoy their story as it unfolds. I really felt that this novel started to feel more like they were starting to slip into their settled roles, yet still filled with love. I enjoyed watching them relax into their marriage, and continue down the path towards becoming a great family. This was a great third installment, and I can already hardly wait for the fourth!
September 9, 2013
This book had both good and bad aspects to it. While I overall enjoyed the story, the downsides mean I probably won't read others in this series.
First, the good. The story itself was interesting, with well-conceived expansion to the Lizzy and Darcy story. The events that happened post-marriage were enjoyable.
I also liked the handling of the supporting characters, both those from the original story as well as the new characters the author created and added to the mix. The characters were a good match for the story and I liked how characters and plot meshed together. The overall story was entertaining and reasonably decent continuation of where the original story left off.
On the downside, however, the book would have benefited tremendously from a strong editor, as the fairly numerous grammatical errors and injudicious word choices did distract me from the story and took me out of the moment.
I also disliked the fact that the author's attempt to mimic Austen's writing style just did not work for me. There are words and phrases that I simply could not envision these characters, in this time period even thinking, let alone saying. Some of the turns of phrase were too modern to be beliveable in this story, others were simply inappropriate for these characters and the world they would have lived in.
Which brings me to the final, and, for me most egregious sin of this book. If one is to accept the vision of the author, Elizabeth and Darcy became sex maniacs immediately following their wedding! Come on - REALLY?!
The frequency and creativity with which the Darcys in this book get it on strain the belief and credulity of even the most devoted P&P fan and was simply WAY TOO MUCH!!
Let me just say that I am not a rigid traditionalist, and even enjoy some depiction of intimacy between these characters, whom I am extremely fond of and love reading stories about. Note that I said "some". This book has Elizabeth and Darcy jumping each other's bones on what seems like every third page, and the level of specificity of the description of their amorous adventures onces again feels excessive and forced given the time period and the nature of male-female relationships of that time period.
The explicit and overly-frequent sex scenes really took away from my overall enjoyment of this book, which is a shame, because I really DID enjoy the story but I found myself rolling my eyes and skipping past the seemingly constant sex scenes to get back to the actual plot. I have no issue with Lizze and Darcy being physically affectionate, but in this book, they came across as rabbits, and that was just way over the top for me.
So, overall a good story, but the irritants out-weighed the good things and I don't see myself reading others from this author, as there are other P&P sequels out there that don't feel the need to insert [no pun intended] excessive sex scenes to make the book more entertaining. For a real P&P fan, the characters and their story are entertaining enough with deft handling and an interesting approach to continuing their adventures, without making them into people they would not be likely to be.
First, the good. The story itself was interesting, with well-conceived expansion to the Lizzy and Darcy story. The events that happened post-marriage were enjoyable.
I also liked the handling of the supporting characters, both those from the original story as well as the new characters the author created and added to the mix. The characters were a good match for the story and I liked how characters and plot meshed together. The overall story was entertaining and reasonably decent continuation of where the original story left off.
On the downside, however, the book would have benefited tremendously from a strong editor, as the fairly numerous grammatical errors and injudicious word choices did distract me from the story and took me out of the moment.
I also disliked the fact that the author's attempt to mimic Austen's writing style just did not work for me. There are words and phrases that I simply could not envision these characters, in this time period even thinking, let alone saying. Some of the turns of phrase were too modern to be beliveable in this story, others were simply inappropriate for these characters and the world they would have lived in.
Which brings me to the final, and, for me most egregious sin of this book. If one is to accept the vision of the author, Elizabeth and Darcy became sex maniacs immediately following their wedding! Come on - REALLY?!
The frequency and creativity with which the Darcys in this book get it on strain the belief and credulity of even the most devoted P&P fan and was simply WAY TOO MUCH!!
Let me just say that I am not a rigid traditionalist, and even enjoy some depiction of intimacy between these characters, whom I am extremely fond of and love reading stories about. Note that I said "some". This book has Elizabeth and Darcy jumping each other's bones on what seems like every third page, and the level of specificity of the description of their amorous adventures onces again feels excessive and forced given the time period and the nature of male-female relationships of that time period.
The explicit and overly-frequent sex scenes really took away from my overall enjoyment of this book, which is a shame, because I really DID enjoy the story but I found myself rolling my eyes and skipping past the seemingly constant sex scenes to get back to the actual plot. I have no issue with Lizze and Darcy being physically affectionate, but in this book, they came across as rabbits, and that was just way over the top for me.
So, overall a good story, but the irritants out-weighed the good things and I don't see myself reading others from this author, as there are other P&P sequels out there that don't feel the need to insert [no pun intended] excessive sex scenes to make the book more entertaining. For a real P&P fan, the characters and their story are entertaining enough with deft handling and an interesting approach to continuing their adventures, without making them into people they would not be likely to be.
January 12, 2010
Have you ever read a book or watched a movie and you just felt like you want a little more? Well, if you are a Pride and Prejudice fan then you can get it. Just read Sharon Lathan's Pride and Prejudice sequels and you'll get all you could possibly want and so much more.
In this third book in the series the Darcy's return to Pemberley after their eventful time in London, take a seaside holiday and then celebrate the birth of their first child the day before their first wedding anniversary. It is full of the beautiful, sensual romance that you know to expect from this wonderful series.
My favourite chapter in this book is without a doubt Chapter 17 which is the birth of the baby. It was so engaging and emotional that I cried several times whilst reading it. It was interesting and full of all the birth details, for those of us who love that sort of thing. I also enjoyed the announcement of Mary Bennet's engagement as well as news of the Bingley's expecting their first baby. The novel ends just prior to Christmas so I imagine the next book while open with the Christmas celebrations with family, friends and the new baby.
Now I have to say I found the third book a little harder to get into than I did the previous two and I think that is because it began with many letters from a minor character. It also seemed that there were a lot more letters in this book than others or maybe I've just forgotten, some where interesting and some I found not so interesting.
In this third book in the series the Darcy's return to Pemberley after their eventful time in London, take a seaside holiday and then celebrate the birth of their first child the day before their first wedding anniversary. It is full of the beautiful, sensual romance that you know to expect from this wonderful series.
My favourite chapter in this book is without a doubt Chapter 17 which is the birth of the baby. It was so engaging and emotional that I cried several times whilst reading it. It was interesting and full of all the birth details, for those of us who love that sort of thing. I also enjoyed the announcement of Mary Bennet's engagement as well as news of the Bingley's expecting their first baby. The novel ends just prior to Christmas so I imagine the next book while open with the Christmas celebrations with family, friends and the new baby.
Now I have to say I found the third book a little harder to get into than I did the previous two and I think that is because it began with many letters from a minor character. It also seemed that there were a lot more letters in this book than others or maybe I've just forgotten, some where interesting and some I found not so interesting.
April 11, 2023
A bizarre story. It starts with the prologue. It appears someone is writing in a journal but you have no idea who he is. He names someone as if he’s writing to her, but you soon realize he’s writing to someone he loved who has passed away. And he regularly writes in his journal as if he were telling her of his goings on. You soon find out that he is an uncle of Darcy’s who has been away for some time and has returned to England. He brings with him a friend he calls Raja and he also calls him Raul. It is a very, very long prologue and started to get a tad boring. Basically he has landed in England and is telling, in detail, his encounter with Darcy, meeting Elizabeth, recounting how they met and that Lady Catherine took a while to just begin to warm up to their marriage. When the prologue finally ends the story is taken up with the every day life of Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth Darcy. She’s pregnant and the uncle, who is a doctor, by the way, is eager to be there for the birth. Ann and Lady C are also in London and everyone is concerned for Ann’s health. They all believe that Lady C’s doctor must be a hack because Raul and the uncle, both doctors, can see that she’s not really being helped by her doctor. They eventually convince Lady C to let them assess her condition and, of course, the hack is exposed and Ann starts to do better. Lots of socializing but primarily, very long, drawn out descriptions of visits, dinners, etc. The Darcys eventually remove to Pemberley and Lady C back to Rosings, but the uncle and Colonel Fitzwilliam stay behind a little while longer. Eventually the uncle sets off for Pemberley by way of Rosings to see how Ann is doing. Next starts a series of reading letters that the Darcys receive; letters from the Uncle explaining that Raul has fallen in love with Ann and that Lady C is appalled, that is, until Raul reveals that he is actually royalty and uber wealthy. Then a letter from Mary telling the Darcys that she’ll soon be married to someone Darcy had introduced to her. Then a letter from Lydia, still delusional and bubble-headed. They never have enough money, “my dear Wickham” works till all hours of the night but they still can’t make ends meet, completely clueless that he’s actually cheating on her and gambling when he says he’s working. A letter from Mr Bennet, a letter from Jane about moving closer to Lizzy, etc., etc. All the letter readings was really getting on my nerves because it lasted even longer than the prologue. The next phase of this book was Darcy and Elizabeth going on a holiday, despite the fact that she is very pregnant. They go to the sea, they go sea bathing, the make love, they meet people and they talk. A lot. Not very interesting conversations either. All other characters fall by the way-side during this time. It’s all about the holiday, the sights, watching air balloons, more sea bathing, a woman who keeps trying to seduce Darcy until he puts her in her place, more sex, etc., etc. Then the Darcys return to pemberley. Elizabeth is now very pregnant, but that doesn't stop her from traipsing around the property or the town. There is a point past which creative license past surpasses authenticity. This is one of those books. Darcy speaks a lot with his uncle Dr darcy, he is fascinated with childbirth because he's concerned for his wife's health. In the end he wants to actually be at the birth itself. A far stretch to the reality of the period. They continue life, more long and drawn out descriptions of their everyday life, Elizabeth continues to make visits and be active long after anyone of that period in her pregnant state would have been.at one point Mr Darcy has no choice but to attend to his business in London and he reluctantly leaves. One would think that he was going on a long voyage, the way Elizabeth Carries On, cries and the way both of them are completely and utterly distraught at having to be away from each other for a couple of weeks. There's romance and then there's ridiculous Romance. This one is of the ridiculous nature. Elizabeth has to keep herself Uber busy so as to be distracted from the fact that her beloved is not with her every night. Darcy, unfortunately, gets ill, very ill. Colonel Fitzwilliam is in London to help take care of him and to write letters back home to pemberley. He tells Elizabeth the Darcy is ill but plays it down and doesn't tell her how will he actually is. Elizabeth is of course beside herself. Dr Darcy has to convince her that she can't just up and leave to London in her condition. Darcy eventually gets better, comes back home and the two lovers are in each other's company once again so the reader doesn't have to suffer too much more angst in that regard. Honestly, the ridiculousness of the fact that they can't be without each other for 10 minutes at a time without the other one starting to get weepy is beyond comprehension. Anyway, the weeks progress, Elizabeth becomes even more pregnant, Jane and Bingley visit, and Darcy and Elizabeth are so in love that Darcy wants to have another wedding ceremony at the chapel in their little town. It's so sappy and unbelievable that I seriously considered stopping reading and just throwing in the towel. But I persevered. They have their second ceremony, everyone looks on adoringly at the couple that is so in love. They go back to pemberly and life continues. Eventually Elizabeth goes into labor and what follows is an insanely tedious, drawn out, and unbelievably explicative description of a very long birth. I have to wonder if the author was either close to labor herself or is completely enamored with the notion of birthing a baby that she felt the need to put the reader through this very unrealistic description. One in which Darcy is ever present. Once again very characteristic of the time. After this excruciating descriptive birthing process, the reader now has to do endure Darcy and Elizabeth doting on their son. New parents are often like this, I was a little bit myself, but nowhere near as ridiculous and clingy as Elizabeth and darcy. The last quarter of this unbelievably, and unnecessarily long book is taken up with Darcy and Elizabeth watching the baby while he's feeding, caressing his soft skin, not able to leave his side, Elizabeth crying the first time that she actually has to go down to dinner and leave the baby, long, tedious hours spent gazing at the baby, blah blah blah. Eventually the story just ends with the couple blissfully happy and talking about another baby. I really did want to like this book. I tried so hard but after over 700 pages of reading about the day in and day out of Elizabeth and Darcy's life, and the overly ridiculous sentimentality and sexuality of Darcy and elizabeth, I just have nothing good to say about this book. Well, actually maybe one thing. Uncle Darcy ends up deciding to stay at pemberly. As he is the only truly interesting character in this whole book, it's nice to know that that character will live out his life, happy and satisfied at pemberly.
September 23, 2016
This is the third book in a series and very similar in tone to the previous installments. It is a highly romanticized and slightly unrealistic version of their happiness in the first year of marriage.
Elizabeth and Darcy seem to be a bit too in love at times if that's possible. They tell each other ALL the time, and even though I have a pretty high tolerance for this in P&P sequels even I found myself rolling my eyes occasionally.
That being said it was a mostly fun read and scratches a particular type of reading itch. Since I own the next book in the series I will read it at some point. Especially since the blurb suggests it will include a focus on the relationships of those around them, which is an element that was lacking in the first three novels.
Elizabeth and Darcy seem to be a bit too in love at times if that's possible. They tell each other ALL the time, and even though I have a pretty high tolerance for this in P&P sequels even I found myself rolling my eyes occasionally.
That being said it was a mostly fun read and scratches a particular type of reading itch. Since I own the next book in the series I will read it at some point. Especially since the blurb suggests it will include a focus on the relationships of those around them, which is an element that was lacking in the first three novels.
October 27, 2010
The third installment by Sharon Lathan is just as good as her first two - perhaps even better, as the heir to Pemberley is born!
Elizabeth and Darcy's love is still the main focus, but it is lovely to read and is laced with wit!
Dr George Darcy takes a much more senior role in the book also - I love the character and his background! More please, Ms Lathan, of him!!
Can't wait for the next installment!
Need to purchase #4!
Elizabeth and Darcy's love is still the main focus, but it is lovely to read and is laced with wit!
Dr George Darcy takes a much more senior role in the book also - I love the character and his background! More please, Ms Lathan, of him!!
Can't wait for the next installment!
Need to purchase #4!
July 10, 2011
I know that the 1st time a read this book I gave it 4 and not 5 stars, but I really enjoyed this book alot. I thought the writing style matured alot. There was more substantial plot lines going on and a little less graffic sex scenes. And what sex scenes there were, I thought were done a little more tastefully. I do love the added characters and family members. Glad I reread this book!!!
June 10, 2012
My favorite book is pride and prejudice and this was a nice fan fiction for the story to continue.. i read these books in a matter of days...I love how each book connected to each other and back to the original story line.. this author has done a fantastic job.. now if only we can get colin firth to play Darcy in the movie versions of these ( I wish!!)
July 7, 2010
I absolutely loved all three books in this series. After i first read Pride and Prejudice i was so sad that it was over i had to see if there was continuations like for other books. This is the best one that i have found so far and i always re-read them!!!!!!
February 18, 2009
I enjoyed the book it was on of my favorites in the series. I enjoyed learning about Uncle George and how close he and Darcy became. I look forwad to learning more about him in another book.
March 29, 2011
All the duties that Darcy and Lizzy had to do and finding the time to still be with one another through all that. Excellent balance of fun and obligition!
June 26, 2011
How have I not read these books before now?!?!?! I love this series!!!
August 12, 2012
Really enjoyed this book.
December 12, 2024
Re-read 2024.
May 29, 2022
Been trying to learn French for years and I feel like this made it it easier somehow. Maybe just in my head? I’ll report back after book two :)
November 1, 2019
Another well done book
I'm trying to get through this series by Sharon Lathan, and had almost decided to give it up, but for a couple of reasons I'll persevere. My reason for wanting to quit is the excessive amount of time and text given to the frequent copulation done by ODC. I love romance, but this is ridiculous. These two can't keep their hands off each other, and are extremely vocal and melodramatic about it. We all understand that Elizabeth did a lot to soften the always stiff and serious Mr. Darcy, but their behavior towards each other is so over the top that it becomes tedious and nauseating. My solution to this is to skim over any paragraphs relating to an interlude, so I did a lot of skimming and probably finished the book a lot quicker. The intervals of lovemaking are all pretty much the same combination of mushy love talk and descriptions of how they brought each other to spectacular sexual completion, so I don't feel as if I missed much in not reading it word for word.
One reason I've decided to slog through the series is simply how good of an author Ms. Lathan is. She is a talented wordsmith and storyteller, who knows how to develop a plot and flesh out the characters.
The other reason is her creation of the character of Dr. George Darcy. Ms. Lathan wrote an entire novel about him, "The Passions of Dr. Darcy," and I highly recommend reading that one. It's wonderful. He appears in this book, and I love his character. The scenes in this story where he appears are by far my favorites.
There is very little of note that happens in this installment: the return of Dr. Darcy, and the birth of the first Darcy baby. The book could have been much shorter, but was bulked up by the sheer number of sexual encounters described in agonizing detail. I recommend it, but would also suggest skimming a lot.
I'm trying to get through this series by Sharon Lathan, and had almost decided to give it up, but for a couple of reasons I'll persevere. My reason for wanting to quit is the excessive amount of time and text given to the frequent copulation done by ODC. I love romance, but this is ridiculous. These two can't keep their hands off each other, and are extremely vocal and melodramatic about it. We all understand that Elizabeth did a lot to soften the always stiff and serious Mr. Darcy, but their behavior towards each other is so over the top that it becomes tedious and nauseating. My solution to this is to skim over any paragraphs relating to an interlude, so I did a lot of skimming and probably finished the book a lot quicker. The intervals of lovemaking are all pretty much the same combination of mushy love talk and descriptions of how they brought each other to spectacular sexual completion, so I don't feel as if I missed much in not reading it word for word.
One reason I've decided to slog through the series is simply how good of an author Ms. Lathan is. She is a talented wordsmith and storyteller, who knows how to develop a plot and flesh out the characters.
The other reason is her creation of the character of Dr. George Darcy. Ms. Lathan wrote an entire novel about him, "The Passions of Dr. Darcy," and I highly recommend reading that one. It's wonderful. He appears in this book, and I love his character. The scenes in this story where he appears are by far my favorites.
There is very little of note that happens in this installment: the return of Dr. Darcy, and the birth of the first Darcy baby. The book could have been much shorter, but was bulked up by the sheer number of sexual encounters described in agonizing detail. I recommend it, but would also suggest skimming a lot.
December 24, 2020
This is book 3 in the series and near the end we see the one year anniversary celebrated... that gives you an idea of how slow this book and series moves. This is not for everyone and the other reviews reflect that opinion. I have to say I appreciate the slow pacing and even the many intimate moments, and here is why: We all know the reserve of the Georgian/Regency periods and this is all build up of emotion, desire, and wanting. They are even reserved after marriage. I understand there are some moments that it seems they ignore propriety, but usually only in their own home and within their closest relations. So, I was able to understand how the build up of wanting to touch, kiss, and be near each other flows over most (if not) every night. Along with that, Darcy has alway been so uptight and reserved that I could see how he longs to cut loose with his wife as often as possible. Love and the person you are with can vastly affect your behavior and move you, so I get those parts of the story and the number of the occurrences.
However, there are moments when I wouldn't mind some more action, but it is not necessary. I like the little bits of happenings and I am so glad it is not overly angsty or drawn out (I hate being sad and emotional because of bad situations).
Bottom Line: ODC deserve to wallow in happiness, love, and intimacy. I will enjoy the rollercoaster of emotions with other series.
However, there are moments when I wouldn't mind some more action, but it is not necessary. I like the little bits of happenings and I am so glad it is not overly angsty or drawn out (I hate being sad and emotional because of bad situations).
Bottom Line: ODC deserve to wallow in happiness, love, and intimacy. I will enjoy the rollercoaster of emotions with other series.
February 18, 2019
Honestly, if you are a hard core Austen fan that requires a due reverence to Jane and her work, I would advise you to steer clear of most if not all of Lathan's offerings of fan fiction supposedly based on Miss Austen's work. This one squeaks by if you are not an absolute purist. There are times when Lathan's pen seems to flow, yet there are times I have to wonder why Lathan insists on writing stories readers would naturally expect to be based on Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. I'm afraid I barely stopped to take notice, recently, of the number of such books Lathan has written. I thought it was one, then three, now I see it is more than five. Flabbergasted, that's what I am. Still being honest, I believe the average person will enjoy Lathan's novels for the most part. However, if you are well versed in the LITERATURE of this era and LOVE it, I vehemently entreat you to pass these by.
May 26, 2022
Perhaps the biggest disappointment of Jane Austen’s "Pride & Prejudice" was that it took us through all the twists and turns of Elizabeth and Darcy’s blossoming romance, only to stop short immediately after they became engaged and got married. Enter Sharon Lathan, author of the Darcy Saga, a series of books written to follow the Darcy newlyweds into their first few years of marriage.
I LOVED getting to see Lizzy and Darcy as a married couple! Watching a fledgling love develop into a solid marriage as a young couple becomes a family; seeing beloved characters grow in an everyday, real life setting as opposed to an extreme set of circumstances – it’s an unusual treat, and reassuring to know that marriage can be just as interesting as falling in love.
I have more to say on these books (and others!) in my blog! Check it out here:
https://www.lynnwallaceauthor.com/blo...
November 8, 2016
OK, this is the last of the 3 book series...
The whole series takes up the first year of the Darcy's lives. Their pregnancy, their family obligations, re-connections with friends and family until just after the blessed event of the baby's birth.
Once again, I have to say that it was a long story with no too much content.
Enjoyable enough, but I've read others that were better.
If you're a fan of the Pride and Prejudice saga, you'll like these.
The whole series takes up the first year of the Darcy's lives. Their pregnancy, their family obligations, re-connections with friends and family until just after the blessed event of the baby's birth.
Once again, I have to say that it was a long story with no too much content.
Enjoyable enough, but I've read others that were better.
If you're a fan of the Pride and Prejudice saga, you'll like these.
December 4, 2021
Saccharine sweet.
I am not sure if I can truly immerse myself in this universe, as the storytelling is quite sweet, almost too much so. Nothing really happens as far as action goes - this novel focuses more on personal relationships. It’s a nice diversion, but not one I can proclaim to be the best out there.
I am not sure if I can truly immerse myself in this universe, as the storytelling is quite sweet, almost too much so. Nothing really happens as far as action goes - this novel focuses more on personal relationships. It’s a nice diversion, but not one I can proclaim to be the best out there.
October 7, 2022
If only Jane Austen could sue...
The worst, cheapest excuse for an attempt in JaneVerse I have ever had the misfortune of reading.
Calling this Lanthan's writing a hack job would be a compliment.
There are so many truly excellent books out there--save this hour of your life for writing with a pulse.
The worst, cheapest excuse for an attempt in JaneVerse I have ever had the misfortune of reading.
Calling this Lanthan's writing a hack job would be a compliment.
There are so many truly excellent books out there--save this hour of your life for writing with a pulse.
November 15, 2017
I ' m enjoying the series
I like the book , but small discrepancies still bother me . In Jane Austen ' s story Charlotte was pregnant when Lizzy visited her, so her baby would have been born some months after Lizzy 's wedding .
I like the book , but small discrepancies still bother me . In Jane Austen ' s story Charlotte was pregnant when Lizzy visited her, so her baby would have been born some months after Lizzy 's wedding .
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