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Mr. Darcy's Forbidden Love
When Fitzwilliam Darcy meets Elizabeth Bennet for the first time, he is already married to another woman. Forced into a loveless marriage, in name only, to the widowed Lady Gisela Grantham because of his father’s sins, Darcy is obliged by honour to remain in the marriage to hide a dark secret.
That unhappy part of his life, however, is quickly coming to an end as he meets the love of his life in a little-known village in Hertfordshire. Mr. Darcy’s Forbidden Love is a Pride and Prejudice variation, not a simple retelling. It is the story of a love that was meant to be—a passion too strong to be denied.
That unhappy part of his life, however, is quickly coming to an end as he meets the love of his life in a little-known village in Hertfordshire. Mr. Darcy’s Forbidden Love is a Pride and Prejudice variation, not a simple retelling. It is the story of a love that was meant to be—a passion too strong to be denied.
486 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 13, 2012
69 people are currently reading
232 people want to read
About the author
Brenda J. Webb
11 books105 followersWelcome to my author page; let me tell you a little about myself.
First, I have never followed soap operas, I hardly have time to watch television at all. Thus, if any of my characters match names of soap opera characters, I assure you it is a coincidence. I come up with the names all by myself. Now that that is addressed, I shall move on. "big smile"
I worked for years in the accounting world until I traded my career for life on a small farm. A voracious reader and romance movie aficionada, one day I happened to notice that one of my favorite Jane Austen books had been made into a movie. It was the 2005 production of Pride and Prejudice and I went to the theatre to see it instead of waiting, as usual, for the DVD or online video release. Nothing can compare to seeing this production on the big screen. It captured my imagination and made me want more of these beloved characters or others like them. I began buying all of Jane Austen's novels on Amazon.com and discovered the Jane Austen Fan Fiction genre.
I read everything I could find and then decided to write a story of my own, which was posted on a fan fiction site. A nice response from my readers convinced me to publish the story. I began a forum, DarcyandLizzy.Com, where I post my stories before they are published. It features many other writers as well.
First, I have never followed soap operas, I hardly have time to watch television at all. Thus, if any of my characters match names of soap opera characters, I assure you it is a coincidence. I come up with the names all by myself. Now that that is addressed, I shall move on. "big smile"
I worked for years in the accounting world until I traded my career for life on a small farm. A voracious reader and romance movie aficionada, one day I happened to notice that one of my favorite Jane Austen books had been made into a movie. It was the 2005 production of Pride and Prejudice and I went to the theatre to see it instead of waiting, as usual, for the DVD or online video release. Nothing can compare to seeing this production on the big screen. It captured my imagination and made me want more of these beloved characters or others like them. I began buying all of Jane Austen's novels on Amazon.com and discovered the Jane Austen Fan Fiction genre.
I read everything I could find and then decided to write a story of my own, which was posted on a fan fiction site. A nice response from my readers convinced me to publish the story. I began a forum, DarcyandLizzy.Com, where I post my stories before they are published. It features many other writers as well.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
February 10, 2017
Borrowed Through Amazon Prime
I adored the first book I read by this author. She has a flair for the dramatic and romantic. Her characters and plot were original and only mildly based on Austen's Pride & Prejudice. This is not something I mind so when I had the chance to read this second book with another intriguing blurb, I snagged it.
Darcy and Lizzy were surrounded by dastardly plotters and tough, seemingly insurmountable circumstances. Darcy is married. His wife is awful and a blackmailer. His Aunt Catherine is out to strip him of his fortune with the help of Darcy's despicable wife and Wickham. His other Fitzwilliam relations other than the Colonel are unsupportive and push him to reconcile with the wife he won't allow in his house or enter hers. Darcy suffers in silence and accepts that he has a good reason for taking on the burdens he has until he encounters the lovely Elizabeth Bennet. He falls for her and enjoys a few tender moments, but then leaves because that is the honorable thing.
Meanwhile, Lizzy falls for Darcy, but then discovers he has left her without explanation. And he has taken Bingley with him. Lizzy is hurt and feels love did her wrong so she heads off to London to snag a rich husband and forget about love. She encounters Darcy, there is a scene, and then she learns the whole torturous truth. But now she is entangled with another man who is abusive and controlling at the instigation of her Aunt Gardiner and her mother.
As people plot around them, their situation grows dire. Lizzy loves Darcy, but thinks there is no chance for his divorce. Darcy thinks Lizzy has chosen to offer herself to a rich man she doesn't like for her family and she won't wait for him. Hope rises and then hope is dashed only to rise again.
This one, like the other is very dramatic- like cheesy gothic romance drama (this is not a criticism as I love that stuff). I had to adjust to that quickly. I was tracking with this one- plot, tone, and characters until somewhere after the sixty percent point.
Then suddenly, I wasn't.
I think it was when the pace went from steady to snail as Darcy and Lizzy got- um, well, mushy for lack of a better word. For instance, once Lizzy was near tears to part from Darcy- it was just a parting to another room in the same house. And Lizzy suddenly is lost to all sense of propriety. She became needy and totally lacking in confidence, needed Darcy to constantly tell her she was lovely, he loved her, he wanted to be with her.
And the pleothora of evil plotters like Lady C, Darcy's wife, Wickham, and Lizzy's suitor. But let's not forget the scheming Mrs. Gardiner (yep you read that right) and Mrs. Bennet. Caroline Bingley got in the act. Toss in a secret love child side plot. And Mr. Bennet storming into the latter fourth of the book suddenly acting the part of the wrathful father... it was tiring and was just so over the top. Thank goodness for Jane, Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam for being calm and no ounce of drama in them. I needed them to help balance all the rest.
Now here's the thing. I didn't hate the book. I loved many parts of it. I think in a certain mood I might have been into both the gushing romance, the crazy scheming, and the constant uproar. I admit to seeing some good humorous scenes, too. Some of the twists on the P&P story were so innovative. I loved that the Ramsgate situation with Georgiana actually happened in the current story instead of in the past. It was neat to see Darcy and Georgie get some wonderful new relations in a second Fitzwilliam Aunt and a family friend. Bingley and Jane's romance was lovely and they were colorful and well developed characters.
So, I think this will be very enjoyable for those who don't mind a strong variation from the original story and are in the mood for gothci-style drama and a sugary romance.
I adored the first book I read by this author. She has a flair for the dramatic and romantic. Her characters and plot were original and only mildly based on Austen's Pride & Prejudice. This is not something I mind so when I had the chance to read this second book with another intriguing blurb, I snagged it.
Darcy and Lizzy were surrounded by dastardly plotters and tough, seemingly insurmountable circumstances. Darcy is married. His wife is awful and a blackmailer. His Aunt Catherine is out to strip him of his fortune with the help of Darcy's despicable wife and Wickham. His other Fitzwilliam relations other than the Colonel are unsupportive and push him to reconcile with the wife he won't allow in his house or enter hers. Darcy suffers in silence and accepts that he has a good reason for taking on the burdens he has until he encounters the lovely Elizabeth Bennet. He falls for her and enjoys a few tender moments, but then leaves because that is the honorable thing.
Meanwhile, Lizzy falls for Darcy, but then discovers he has left her without explanation. And he has taken Bingley with him. Lizzy is hurt and feels love did her wrong so she heads off to London to snag a rich husband and forget about love. She encounters Darcy, there is a scene, and then she learns the whole torturous truth. But now she is entangled with another man who is abusive and controlling at the instigation of her Aunt Gardiner and her mother.
As people plot around them, their situation grows dire. Lizzy loves Darcy, but thinks there is no chance for his divorce. Darcy thinks Lizzy has chosen to offer herself to a rich man she doesn't like for her family and she won't wait for him. Hope rises and then hope is dashed only to rise again.
This one, like the other is very dramatic- like cheesy gothic romance drama (this is not a criticism as I love that stuff). I had to adjust to that quickly. I was tracking with this one- plot, tone, and characters until somewhere after the sixty percent point.
Then suddenly, I wasn't.
I think it was when the pace went from steady to snail as Darcy and Lizzy got- um, well, mushy for lack of a better word. For instance, once Lizzy was near tears to part from Darcy- it was just a parting to another room in the same house. And Lizzy suddenly is lost to all sense of propriety. She became needy and totally lacking in confidence, needed Darcy to constantly tell her she was lovely, he loved her, he wanted to be with her.
And the pleothora of evil plotters like Lady C, Darcy's wife, Wickham, and Lizzy's suitor. But let's not forget the scheming Mrs. Gardiner (yep you read that right) and Mrs. Bennet. Caroline Bingley got in the act. Toss in a secret love child side plot. And Mr. Bennet storming into the latter fourth of the book suddenly acting the part of the wrathful father... it was tiring and was just so over the top. Thank goodness for Jane, Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam for being calm and no ounce of drama in them. I needed them to help balance all the rest.
Now here's the thing. I didn't hate the book. I loved many parts of it. I think in a certain mood I might have been into both the gushing romance, the crazy scheming, and the constant uproar. I admit to seeing some good humorous scenes, too. Some of the twists on the P&P story were so innovative. I loved that the Ramsgate situation with Georgiana actually happened in the current story instead of in the past. It was neat to see Darcy and Georgie get some wonderful new relations in a second Fitzwilliam Aunt and a family friend. Bingley and Jane's romance was lovely and they were colorful and well developed characters.
So, I think this will be very enjoyable for those who don't mind a strong variation from the original story and are in the mood for gothci-style drama and a sugary romance.
August 1, 2021
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I can't wait to read more. They are a bit pricey for me right now but looking forward to future readings. :)
Reread: Still 5 stars. I loved this book but I must say the highlight for me this time was Bingley.
Reread: Best Bingley/Jane scene ever!
Reread: Still thought it is a great read.
Reread: Still 5 stars. I loved this book but I must say the highlight for me this time was Bingley.
Reread: Best Bingley/Jane scene ever!
Reread: Still thought it is a great read.
December 19, 2017
In this story we read that Darcy is married, due to the manipulations of a rejected woman, who 1.) When Darcy would not succumb to her charms, 2.) Then seduced his father, George Darcy, 3.) Claimed to be pregnant by him and 4.) Furthermore, found letters written by Darcy's mother, Anne Darcy, which revealed that Georgina is not George's child. So 5.) Gisela blackmailed Darcy into marrying her to keep those two family secrets hidden...and then after the wedding 6.) He dumps her at her townhouse and refuses to have anything to do with her.
Later, when traveling to Meryton to visit his friend's, Bingley's, new estate, Netherfield) Darcy stops in a bookstore, as he knows Bingley will not have any books in his new library, meets, and is instantly smitten by, Elizabeth Bennet. Later while he is inspecting the property for Bingley and she is rescuing her goat, they are caught in a rain storm and spend the night sheltered together out of necessity. She is in love; he realizes he can't allow her to develop any deeper feelings due to his married state so he runs back to London. She is hurt and pretends not to care.
Meanwhile, we have our scheming Mrs. Bennet who, when Bingley leaves Netherfield to return to London in order to look into TWO lost merchant ships without telling Jane where and why he is gone, decides to send the 2 oldest daughters to London to throw them into the paths of other rich men. (In this story we also have a similarly scheming Aunt Gardiner in London - not our lovable JA character.) Jane refuses to go as she is nursing a broken heart. While in London Elizabeth is introduced to a Lady Alfreda Wilkens, with whom she becomes friends, and Alfreda's brother, Lord John Wilkens, who decides that, since he was rejected by 3 women of the ton whom he courted, Elizabeth, with her low connections cannot possibly do the same and thus she is to be HIS. And to cap off the suspense she now runs into Darcy at a ball. BUT WAIT - the story has just begun!
I read both of Brenda Webb's books within a 5 day period. I found this second book very romantic, a real page turner, great development with characters and with plot, very different take from so many other JAFF stories. Most don't have Darcy married. Others don't have kidnapping, and a completely evil Aunt C. There are some similarities to our original P&P, i.e., the incident at Ramsgate and some but not all of our original characters. But some actors play a very minor role, i.e., Charlotte Lucas, the 3 younger sisters, and some are not in this story, i.e., Mr. Collins.
Things I noticed: Brenda begins both her books with Elizabeth and Darcy falling in love. All the action takes place after that. And in both of her books she has Lizzy being pursued by or "married" to an obsessive, controlling abuser. One love scene seems to be copied word-for-word from the first book into the second (Hard to check when both books are on kindle). And Brenda likes to go on-and-on after the marriage with various other sub-plots and then a long epilogue. I have mixed feelings about the latter two. On one hand it seems to drag but, on the other hand, we have no loose ends. However, the stories could have ended with the wedding and a short epilogue and still have been very satisfactory.
There are no intense bedroom sex scenes in this story, in case you hate those. There is some foreplay but they do get married before getting to the sex.
Are the characters true to the canon? No. But with variations we readers know to expect such. Brenda wrote a story that could have had other names for her main characters and had her story stand on its own merits, but we needed the connection with P&P, knowing the canon, to give us background and understanding of how the author changed the events and the characters. It simply made for a richer understanding of on what this tale was based. *SPOILER*: Some of us love that Wickham was killed off in this story. Lady C. has always seemed pretty much off the deep end for me. (How many of us want to strangle her in the original P&P?) So her fate can be delicious for some of us. And Darcy's parents and other extended family members (especially Darcy's kind and supportive aunt, Lady Audrey Ashcroft, and his godfather, Lord Landingham) are introduced and/or explored more in depth. Aunt Gardiner is not to my liking here but her character change was necessary for this story.
I recommend this story as a wonderful variation on Pride and Prejudice. Or simply as an excellent historical romance. I have now re-read this since publishing this review originally on Amazon.
Later, when traveling to Meryton to visit his friend's, Bingley's, new estate, Netherfield) Darcy stops in a bookstore, as he knows Bingley will not have any books in his new library, meets, and is instantly smitten by, Elizabeth Bennet. Later while he is inspecting the property for Bingley and she is rescuing her goat, they are caught in a rain storm and spend the night sheltered together out of necessity. She is in love; he realizes he can't allow her to develop any deeper feelings due to his married state so he runs back to London. She is hurt and pretends not to care.
Meanwhile, we have our scheming Mrs. Bennet who, when Bingley leaves Netherfield to return to London in order to look into TWO lost merchant ships without telling Jane where and why he is gone, decides to send the 2 oldest daughters to London to throw them into the paths of other rich men. (In this story we also have a similarly scheming Aunt Gardiner in London - not our lovable JA character.) Jane refuses to go as she is nursing a broken heart. While in London Elizabeth is introduced to a Lady Alfreda Wilkens, with whom she becomes friends, and Alfreda's brother, Lord John Wilkens, who decides that, since he was rejected by 3 women of the ton whom he courted, Elizabeth, with her low connections cannot possibly do the same and thus she is to be HIS. And to cap off the suspense she now runs into Darcy at a ball. BUT WAIT - the story has just begun!
I read both of Brenda Webb's books within a 5 day period. I found this second book very romantic, a real page turner, great development with characters and with plot, very different take from so many other JAFF stories. Most don't have Darcy married. Others don't have kidnapping, and a completely evil Aunt C. There are some similarities to our original P&P, i.e., the incident at Ramsgate and some but not all of our original characters. But some actors play a very minor role, i.e., Charlotte Lucas, the 3 younger sisters, and some are not in this story, i.e., Mr. Collins.
Things I noticed: Brenda begins both her books with Elizabeth and Darcy falling in love. All the action takes place after that. And in both of her books she has Lizzy being pursued by or "married" to an obsessive, controlling abuser. One love scene seems to be copied word-for-word from the first book into the second (Hard to check when both books are on kindle). And Brenda likes to go on-and-on after the marriage with various other sub-plots and then a long epilogue. I have mixed feelings about the latter two. On one hand it seems to drag but, on the other hand, we have no loose ends. However, the stories could have ended with the wedding and a short epilogue and still have been very satisfactory.
There are no intense bedroom sex scenes in this story, in case you hate those. There is some foreplay but they do get married before getting to the sex.
Are the characters true to the canon? No. But with variations we readers know to expect such. Brenda wrote a story that could have had other names for her main characters and had her story stand on its own merits, but we needed the connection with P&P, knowing the canon, to give us background and understanding of how the author changed the events and the characters. It simply made for a richer understanding of on what this tale was based. *SPOILER*: Some of us love that Wickham was killed off in this story. Lady C. has always seemed pretty much off the deep end for me. (How many of us want to strangle her in the original P&P?) So her fate can be delicious for some of us. And Darcy's parents and other extended family members (especially Darcy's kind and supportive aunt, Lady Audrey Ashcroft, and his godfather, Lord Landingham) are introduced and/or explored more in depth. Aunt Gardiner is not to my liking here but her character change was necessary for this story.
I recommend this story as a wonderful variation on Pride and Prejudice. Or simply as an excellent historical romance. I have now re-read this since publishing this review originally on Amazon.
December 29, 2015
This was a long and wonderful P&P variation!!!
I have to say that it took a while to get into this story... There a lot of characters to keep track of and who's doing what to this person and that person... But I had a giant smile on my face when it was over, which usually tells me I found another great read...
This is a very different story from P&P, but Elizabeth and Darcy's personalities are similar to the original book in many ways. They meet and fall in love at a book store, which seals their connection and from there we are treated to an amazing journey of greed, romance and suspense.
I've read other books where Darcy is in an unhappy marriage and it just feels sad for him. I'm glad there's 90 minutes devoted at the end of the book to the Darcy's marriage... As that turns out to be my favorite part of this book. Lots of sweet moments, lots of romantic memories... Just a really great read!!! Thanks Brenda Webb!!!
I have to say that it took a while to get into this story... There a lot of characters to keep track of and who's doing what to this person and that person... But I had a giant smile on my face when it was over, which usually tells me I found another great read...
This is a very different story from P&P, but Elizabeth and Darcy's personalities are similar to the original book in many ways. They meet and fall in love at a book store, which seals their connection and from there we are treated to an amazing journey of greed, romance and suspense.
I've read other books where Darcy is in an unhappy marriage and it just feels sad for him. I'm glad there's 90 minutes devoted at the end of the book to the Darcy's marriage... As that turns out to be my favorite part of this book. Lots of sweet moments, lots of romantic memories... Just a really great read!!! Thanks Brenda Webb!!!
July 16, 2016
What If Darcy Was Trapped In Marriage?
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars!
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation, Mature Audiences
TIME FRAME: April 1812, Mr. Darcy’s first appearance in Meryton
MAIN CHARACTERS: Elizabeth Bennet. Mr. Darcy, Georgiana Darcy, Charles Bingley, Richard Fitzwilliam, George Wickham, Lady Catherine, and a bunch of original creations – Lady Ashcroft, Gisela Darcy, Lord Landingham , and John Wilkens
SYNOPSIS: Darcy meets Elizabeth in a bookshop in Meryton and it is love-at-first-sight for both of them. No insult, no pride, no prejudice. What separates them from being happy and in love together? Darcy is entrapped in marriage with another woman who threatens him with scandal and disgrace.
WHAT I LOVED:
- Darcy’s Hands Are Tied!: Sure there are many times we’ve seen Darcy unable to follow his heart – either because of rejection, competition, family interference, etc. But this has to be one of the few times where I’ve seen Darcy’s hands truly tied. As a married man, he can’t pursue Elizabeth – he isn’t the type to have a mistress and his horribly wicked wife threatens ruin for Georgiana and the Darcy name if he divorces her. Knowing how rare and difficult divorce was in this time period, this seemed like an impossibly helpless situation that brought me to the brink of despair…lucky for me things got better!
- Unique Adventure: This is not Pride and Prejudice as we know it. While the characters and many personalities and situations are familiar, this is an imaginative departure from Jane Austen’s canon. I love how the premise for this story is unlike any other I’ve read before. Darcy married to an evil witch of a woman? Dark family secrets about the Darcy family? It is brave, dramatic, and wonderfully intriguing.
- Elizabeth Bennet Is My Hero: While Elizabeth acknowledges that her heart belongs to another, she travels to London to prove to Jane (who is heartbroken and morose) that it is possible to receive an offer of marriage without much of a dowry or connections. But instead of being her surrogate mother and confidant, Aunt Gardiner is pushing her to accept the addresses of an unpleasant and foul-tempered soon-to-be earl. What I loved most about this Elizabeth, was her strength. She never gave into gloom and despair (like Jane did) and she always thought for herself (even when everyone in her life was trying to sway her differently). She was so strong, so brave, so inspiring!
- Audrey and Marshall: Out of all the new characters introduced in this story, these two are my favorite! I love their individual stories and pasts, and the storyline that brings them together. They are intriguing characters who could not but help earn my admiration and sympathy! I definitely wouldn’t have minded seeing more of them!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Balance and Pacing: Only a minor complaint. There were a few storylines that seemed to move a bit slowly, or perhaps they felt slow since plans or events discussed would take several chapters to finally take place (i.e. Ramsgate). And once in awhile some scenes and conversations felt redundant because they illustrated the same point made by an earlier scene. In addition, some storylines felt a little hurried towards the end. (I would have loved to witness a final confrontation with Lady C!)
CONCLUSION:
Poignant and dramatic – this enthralling Pride and Prejudice variation is sure to please readers who delight in seeing Darcy and Elizabeth conquer insurmountable obstacles and love each other fiercely! I love Ms. Webb’s epic, inventive, and exhilarating approach to these characters! While there is some unhappiness and despair, the tender and special moments Darcy and Elizabeth share together are heartwarming and beautiful!
WARNING:
There are several intimate scenes in this story – not very frequent or graphic though. And there are some scenes of mild violence. Would recommend for Mature Audiences.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars!
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation, Mature Audiences
TIME FRAME: April 1812, Mr. Darcy’s first appearance in Meryton
MAIN CHARACTERS: Elizabeth Bennet. Mr. Darcy, Georgiana Darcy, Charles Bingley, Richard Fitzwilliam, George Wickham, Lady Catherine, and a bunch of original creations – Lady Ashcroft, Gisela Darcy, Lord Landingham , and John Wilkens
SYNOPSIS: Darcy meets Elizabeth in a bookshop in Meryton and it is love-at-first-sight for both of them. No insult, no pride, no prejudice. What separates them from being happy and in love together? Darcy is entrapped in marriage with another woman who threatens him with scandal and disgrace.
WHAT I LOVED:
- Darcy’s Hands Are Tied!: Sure there are many times we’ve seen Darcy unable to follow his heart – either because of rejection, competition, family interference, etc. But this has to be one of the few times where I’ve seen Darcy’s hands truly tied. As a married man, he can’t pursue Elizabeth – he isn’t the type to have a mistress and his horribly wicked wife threatens ruin for Georgiana and the Darcy name if he divorces her. Knowing how rare and difficult divorce was in this time period, this seemed like an impossibly helpless situation that brought me to the brink of despair…lucky for me things got better!
- Unique Adventure: This is not Pride and Prejudice as we know it. While the characters and many personalities and situations are familiar, this is an imaginative departure from Jane Austen’s canon. I love how the premise for this story is unlike any other I’ve read before. Darcy married to an evil witch of a woman? Dark family secrets about the Darcy family? It is brave, dramatic, and wonderfully intriguing.
- Elizabeth Bennet Is My Hero: While Elizabeth acknowledges that her heart belongs to another, she travels to London to prove to Jane (who is heartbroken and morose) that it is possible to receive an offer of marriage without much of a dowry or connections. But instead of being her surrogate mother and confidant, Aunt Gardiner is pushing her to accept the addresses of an unpleasant and foul-tempered soon-to-be earl. What I loved most about this Elizabeth, was her strength. She never gave into gloom and despair (like Jane did) and she always thought for herself (even when everyone in her life was trying to sway her differently). She was so strong, so brave, so inspiring!
- Audrey and Marshall: Out of all the new characters introduced in this story, these two are my favorite! I love their individual stories and pasts, and the storyline that brings them together. They are intriguing characters who could not but help earn my admiration and sympathy! I definitely wouldn’t have minded seeing more of them!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Balance and Pacing: Only a minor complaint. There were a few storylines that seemed to move a bit slowly, or perhaps they felt slow since plans or events discussed would take several chapters to finally take place (i.e. Ramsgate). And once in awhile some scenes and conversations felt redundant because they illustrated the same point made by an earlier scene. In addition, some storylines felt a little hurried towards the end. (I would have loved to witness a final confrontation with Lady C!)
CONCLUSION:
Poignant and dramatic – this enthralling Pride and Prejudice variation is sure to please readers who delight in seeing Darcy and Elizabeth conquer insurmountable obstacles and love each other fiercely! I love Ms. Webb’s epic, inventive, and exhilarating approach to these characters! While there is some unhappiness and despair, the tender and special moments Darcy and Elizabeth share together are heartwarming and beautiful!
WARNING:
There are several intimate scenes in this story – not very frequent or graphic though. And there are some scenes of mild violence. Would recommend for Mature Audiences.
April 9, 2013
First off Brenda Webb's Fitzwilliam Darcy an Honorable Man is one of my all-time favorites! I have read it many times and was so excited when I saw another of her novels was being released! She really changes the story and creates a whole new plot and atmosphere with the characters. They are romantic, fun and enjoyable, and served up with enough angst even for me. :)
Mr. Darcy's Forbidden Love is P&P variation where Darcy is already married. In order to hide a family secret, he was forced into marriage to a real witch of a lady, Gisela Gratham. Resigned to his fate he never sees what's coming when he meets Elizabeth Bennet in Hertfordshire. Feelings of love that he never thought possible begin in his heart, and soon he will move heaven and earth to be with Elizabeth. In the meantime, although Elizabeth is attracted to Mr. Darcy she must move on with her life and find a wealthy match in order to protect her family and her sisters. Thrown into the path of rich men, Elizabeth is in danger of being married off to a gruesome man. Darcy must act fast if he plans to escape his own fate, and save Elizabeth from hers.
This was a great story, where the characters are put in an almost insurmountable obstacle tearing them apart. I love the amount of heartache and angst that her stories create and I want so much for it to be resolved I am just unable to put the books down. She really changes up the story completely and even some characters personalities are different, so you have to want a different retelling to enjoy it. In my mind the author had a lot to live up to with the first and this one did very well. Compared to her first, which is one at the top of my list, I still liked that one better... but this still receives high praise.
Mr. Darcy's Forbidden Love is P&P variation where Darcy is already married. In order to hide a family secret, he was forced into marriage to a real witch of a lady, Gisela Gratham. Resigned to his fate he never sees what's coming when he meets Elizabeth Bennet in Hertfordshire. Feelings of love that he never thought possible begin in his heart, and soon he will move heaven and earth to be with Elizabeth. In the meantime, although Elizabeth is attracted to Mr. Darcy she must move on with her life and find a wealthy match in order to protect her family and her sisters. Thrown into the path of rich men, Elizabeth is in danger of being married off to a gruesome man. Darcy must act fast if he plans to escape his own fate, and save Elizabeth from hers.
This was a great story, where the characters are put in an almost insurmountable obstacle tearing them apart. I love the amount of heartache and angst that her stories create and I want so much for it to be resolved I am just unable to put the books down. She really changes up the story completely and even some characters personalities are different, so you have to want a different retelling to enjoy it. In my mind the author had a lot to live up to with the first and this one did very well. Compared to her first, which is one at the top of my list, I still liked that one better... but this still receives high praise.
March 19, 2020
In this story we read that Darcy is married, due to the manipulations of a rejected woman, who 1.) When Darcy would not succumb to her charms, 2.) Then seduced his father, George Darcy, 3.) Claimed to be pregnant by him and 4.) Furthermore, found letters written by Darcy's mother, Anne Darcy, which revealed that Georgiana is not George's child. So 5.) Gisela blackmailed Darcy into marrying her to keep those two family secrets hidden...and then after the wedding 6.) He dumps her at her townhouse and refuses to have anything to do with her.
Later, when traveling to Meryton to visit his friend's, Bingley's, new estate, Netherfield, Darcy stops in a bookstore, as he knows Bingley will not have any books in his new library, meets, and is instantly smitten by, Elizabeth Bennet. Later while he is inspecting the property for Bingley and she is rescuing her goat, they are caught in a rain storm and spend the night sheltered together out of necessity. She is in love; he realizes he can't allow her to develop any deeper feelings due to his married state so he runs back to London. She is hurt and pretends not to care.
Meanwhile, we have our scheming Mrs. Bennet who, when Bingley leaves Netherfield to return to London in order to look into TWO lost merchant ships without telling Jane where and why he is gone, decides to send Elizabeth to London to throw her into the paths of other rich men. (In this story we also have a similarly scheming Aunt Gardiner in London - not our lovable JA character.) Jane has refused to go to London as she is nursing a broken heart. While in London Elizabeth is introduced to a Lady Alfreda Wilkens, with whom she becomes friends, and Alfreda's brother, Lord John Wilkens, who decides that, since he was rejected by 3 women of the ton whom he courted, Elizabeth, with her low connections cannot possibly do the same and thus she is to be HIS. And to cap off the suspense she now runs into Darcy at a ball. BUT WAIT - the story has just begun!
I read both of Brenda Webb's books within a 5 day period. I found this second book very romantic, a real page turner, great development with characters and with plot, a very different take from so many other JAFF stories. Most don't have Darcy married. Others don't have kidnapping, and a completely evil Aunt C. There are some similarities to our original P&P, i.e., the incident at Ramsgate is similar to canon and some but not all of our original characters. However some actors play a very minor role, i.e., Charlotte Lucas, the 3 younger sisters, and some are not in this story, i.e., Mr. Collins.
Things I noticed: Brenda begins both her books with Elizabeth and Darcy falling in love. All the action takes place after that. And in both of her books she has Lizzy being pursued by or "married" to an obsessive, controlling abuser. One love scene seems to be copied word-for-word from the first book into the second (Hard to check when both books are on kindle). And Brenda likes to go on-and-on after the marriage with various other sub-plots and then a long epilogue. I have mixed feelings about the latter two. On one hand it seems to drag but, on the other hand, we have no loose ends. However, the stories could have ended with the wedding and a short epilogue and still have been very satisfactory.
There are no intense bedroom sex scenes in this story, in case you hate those. There is some foreplay but they do get married before getting to the sex.
Are the characters true to the canon? No. But with variations we readers know to expect such. Brenda wrote a story that could have had other names for her main characters and had her story stand on its own merits, but we needed the connection with P&P, knowing the canon, to give us background and understanding of how the author changed the events and the characters. It simply made for a richer understanding of on what this tale was based. *SPOILER*: Some of us love that Wickham was killed off in this story. Lady C. has always seemed pretty much off the deep end for me. (How many of us want to strangle her in the original P&P?) So her fate can be delicious for some of us. And Darcy's parents and other extended family members (especially Darcy's kind and supportive aunt, Lady Audrey Ashcroft, and his godfather, Lord Landingham) are introduced and/or explored more in depth. Aunt Gardiner is not to my liking here but her character change was necessary for this story.
I recommend this story as a wonderful variation on Pride and Prejudice. Or simply as an excellent historical romance.
3-19-2020: Having now read this a second time I again recommend this story. It is long and the climax is earlier than most stories which have it at about 85%. I did love the thoughts about the true meaning of love as the reason to marry, the relationships between husband and wife and even the thoughts on being a good parent.
Later, when traveling to Meryton to visit his friend's, Bingley's, new estate, Netherfield, Darcy stops in a bookstore, as he knows Bingley will not have any books in his new library, meets, and is instantly smitten by, Elizabeth Bennet. Later while he is inspecting the property for Bingley and she is rescuing her goat, they are caught in a rain storm and spend the night sheltered together out of necessity. She is in love; he realizes he can't allow her to develop any deeper feelings due to his married state so he runs back to London. She is hurt and pretends not to care.
Meanwhile, we have our scheming Mrs. Bennet who, when Bingley leaves Netherfield to return to London in order to look into TWO lost merchant ships without telling Jane where and why he is gone, decides to send Elizabeth to London to throw her into the paths of other rich men. (In this story we also have a similarly scheming Aunt Gardiner in London - not our lovable JA character.) Jane has refused to go to London as she is nursing a broken heart. While in London Elizabeth is introduced to a Lady Alfreda Wilkens, with whom she becomes friends, and Alfreda's brother, Lord John Wilkens, who decides that, since he was rejected by 3 women of the ton whom he courted, Elizabeth, with her low connections cannot possibly do the same and thus she is to be HIS. And to cap off the suspense she now runs into Darcy at a ball. BUT WAIT - the story has just begun!
I read both of Brenda Webb's books within a 5 day period. I found this second book very romantic, a real page turner, great development with characters and with plot, a very different take from so many other JAFF stories. Most don't have Darcy married. Others don't have kidnapping, and a completely evil Aunt C. There are some similarities to our original P&P, i.e., the incident at Ramsgate is similar to canon and some but not all of our original characters. However some actors play a very minor role, i.e., Charlotte Lucas, the 3 younger sisters, and some are not in this story, i.e., Mr. Collins.
Things I noticed: Brenda begins both her books with Elizabeth and Darcy falling in love. All the action takes place after that. And in both of her books she has Lizzy being pursued by or "married" to an obsessive, controlling abuser. One love scene seems to be copied word-for-word from the first book into the second (Hard to check when both books are on kindle). And Brenda likes to go on-and-on after the marriage with various other sub-plots and then a long epilogue. I have mixed feelings about the latter two. On one hand it seems to drag but, on the other hand, we have no loose ends. However, the stories could have ended with the wedding and a short epilogue and still have been very satisfactory.
There are no intense bedroom sex scenes in this story, in case you hate those. There is some foreplay but they do get married before getting to the sex.
Are the characters true to the canon? No. But with variations we readers know to expect such. Brenda wrote a story that could have had other names for her main characters and had her story stand on its own merits, but we needed the connection with P&P, knowing the canon, to give us background and understanding of how the author changed the events and the characters. It simply made for a richer understanding of on what this tale was based. *SPOILER*: Some of us love that Wickham was killed off in this story. Lady C. has always seemed pretty much off the deep end for me. (How many of us want to strangle her in the original P&P?) So her fate can be delicious for some of us. And Darcy's parents and other extended family members (especially Darcy's kind and supportive aunt, Lady Audrey Ashcroft, and his godfather, Lord Landingham) are introduced and/or explored more in depth. Aunt Gardiner is not to my liking here but her character change was necessary for this story.
I recommend this story as a wonderful variation on Pride and Prejudice. Or simply as an excellent historical romance.
3-19-2020: Having now read this a second time I again recommend this story. It is long and the climax is earlier than most stories which have it at about 85%. I did love the thoughts about the true meaning of love as the reason to marry, the relationships between husband and wife and even the thoughts on being a good parent.
June 26, 2015
So this book took me an unexpectedly long time to finish compared to the last few I've read. And of course it is my 30th book of the year! Which is what I set my 2015 goal as...so I may have underestimated how many books I read a year... lol
This book definitely started out being five stars, but dwindled by the end. It's probably 4.5 in reality.
The premise - Mr. Darcy is already married! Ah! But he was blackmailed into this marriage by a very evil woman named Gisela! The marriage is loveless, they never live in the same house, and he barely acknowledges her existence if he can help it. So when he comes to Meryton and sees the beautiful Elizabeth Bennet for the first time, he is already humbled to a certain extent. He is just so depressed and miserable, that he never acts haughty and disagreeable. They fall instantly in love in this novel. But what can he do? He's married.
What I love: I went to bed a few nights wondering how I was going to sleep, because I felt my own heartbreaking. The writing was spectacular, and I really felt for Darcy and Elizabeth. Their love and sheer helplessness devastated me (in an absolutely good way. I feel that a book that can evoke such emotions in me are the best). All the additional characters in this rendition are well thought out. Gisela was crazy, but she was fascinating. Lady Ashcroft, another sister of Anne Darcy and Lord Landingham were also fantastic additions. They acted almost as parents to Darcy. Which was good, because this was already devastating enough, and if he had had no support system whatsoever...it may have been unreadable. But instead this pair added the support that really saved Darcy. I liked how the Fitwilliams (with the exception of Richard) were not innocent in the beginning but came around in the end. I think it was just good to have some realistic people intermixed. Not everyone would be on board with Darcy treating his first marriage the way he did. I love how mixed up everything became with Catherine and Wickham. How each of them were evil, and realized that they couldn't really trust one another. In the end Gisela is even more evil than Wickham, and that fascinates me. Their showdown in Teddington is definitely my favorite part. I was nearly on the edge of my seat.
So it all sounds great right? Well...you're mostly right.
What I was not too fond of: It was just too long. I know, I know - "...but for my own part, if a book is well written, I always find it too short." And it is really well written - but after the scene in Teddington...I feel like you can have one more chapter and then an epilogue. We concluded the story really, but we were only 85% in. Now in a short book that's like nothing, but in a book that has taken me days to read, it's at least another 12 hours of reading. That's an estimate, but you get the point. I do hate when stories don't wrap up enough, but this one dragged for me in that last 15%. It was still good, but I was just like...alright, we covered the bases...everyone lives happily ever after.
Also what ever happened to Anne DeBourgh? I may have missed that part - it's possible, but she seems to vanish.
I will definitely read this book again! At least 85% of this book :)
This book definitely started out being five stars, but dwindled by the end. It's probably 4.5 in reality.
The premise - Mr. Darcy is already married! Ah! But he was blackmailed into this marriage by a very evil woman named Gisela! The marriage is loveless, they never live in the same house, and he barely acknowledges her existence if he can help it. So when he comes to Meryton and sees the beautiful Elizabeth Bennet for the first time, he is already humbled to a certain extent. He is just so depressed and miserable, that he never acts haughty and disagreeable. They fall instantly in love in this novel. But what can he do? He's married.
What I love: I went to bed a few nights wondering how I was going to sleep, because I felt my own heartbreaking. The writing was spectacular, and I really felt for Darcy and Elizabeth. Their love and sheer helplessness devastated me (in an absolutely good way. I feel that a book that can evoke such emotions in me are the best). All the additional characters in this rendition are well thought out. Gisela was crazy, but she was fascinating. Lady Ashcroft, another sister of Anne Darcy and Lord Landingham were also fantastic additions. They acted almost as parents to Darcy. Which was good, because this was already devastating enough, and if he had had no support system whatsoever...it may have been unreadable. But instead this pair added the support that really saved Darcy. I liked how the Fitwilliams (with the exception of Richard) were not innocent in the beginning but came around in the end. I think it was just good to have some realistic people intermixed. Not everyone would be on board with Darcy treating his first marriage the way he did. I love how mixed up everything became with Catherine and Wickham. How each of them were evil, and realized that they couldn't really trust one another. In the end Gisela is even more evil than Wickham, and that fascinates me. Their showdown in Teddington is definitely my favorite part. I was nearly on the edge of my seat.
So it all sounds great right? Well...you're mostly right.
What I was not too fond of: It was just too long. I know, I know - "...but for my own part, if a book is well written, I always find it too short." And it is really well written - but after the scene in Teddington...I feel like you can have one more chapter and then an epilogue. We concluded the story really, but we were only 85% in. Now in a short book that's like nothing, but in a book that has taken me days to read, it's at least another 12 hours of reading. That's an estimate, but you get the point. I do hate when stories don't wrap up enough, but this one dragged for me in that last 15%. It was still good, but I was just like...alright, we covered the bases...everyone lives happily ever after.
Also what ever happened to Anne DeBourgh? I may have missed that part - it's possible, but she seems to vanish.
I will definitely read this book again! At least 85% of this book :)
July 8, 2018
You know when you read a story and you are thinking about it while you're not reading it? This was one of those stories for me.
It was DRAMATIC to say the least. One of those obstacles would have been enough for the story, but Darcy & Lizzy face nearly insurmountable odds to be together. It's very engaging and captivating.
There is no "Pride and Prejudice" in this, it's a completely different story with the characters we know and love, so if you're a purist, this story is not for you. But if you're open to more, you should love this story!
It was DRAMATIC to say the least. One of those obstacles would have been enough for the story, but Darcy & Lizzy face nearly insurmountable odds to be together. It's very engaging and captivating.
There is no "Pride and Prejudice" in this, it's a completely different story with the characters we know and love, so if you're a purist, this story is not for you. But if you're open to more, you should love this story!
December 31, 2012
WOW! Loved this book with only one exception. In this alternative P&P, Mr Darcy is trapped in a loveless marriage and he is married only to save the family name. His parents lived longer but was not the ideal marriage by the end. Anne Darcy was very sick and George Darcy had mistresses. As a result Darcy is made to marry to save the family name and than in the span of a year both parents die and he is stuck married to Gisela(who is a beautiful, pampered, winy, vengeful bitch). She makes Caroline seem tame. When Darcy goes to Netherfield he meets Elizabeth in a bookstore in Meryton and falls in love wit her. Being married he knows it can't be and leaves before she can fall in love with him. Unfortunately she does and all sorts of things happen. There is mystery, intrigue with lots of misunderstanding. Wickham, Lady Catherine and Gisela are all wonderful villains in this story. There are also new characters which you will fall in love with and the plot twists are perfect. Plenty of nail biting and in the end love always wins out. Enjoyed this story very much!
This is for the author:
Now the only thing I didn't like was the Gardiners characterization. I know it needed to be that way but I like them and wanted so much more!
This is for the author:
Now the only thing I didn't like was the Gardiners characterization. I know it needed to be that way but I like them and wanted so much more!
August 20, 2018
The craziest, most convoluted and melodramatic P&P adaptation. Very out of canon in every aspect. It has a strong hint of swashbuckle (in my opinion) and a heart churning doomed romance that is not at all in the original author's style.
Darcy goes to Netherfield as a married man, albeit a marriage in name only. He did it to silence family scandal (illegitimate children and all), so he is not free to pursue Elizabeth though he loves her. She also falls in-love with him instantly, but must seek a possible and advantageous match. There are a million villains here, including Mrs. Darcy, an alternate Wickham (who never went to Merryton) and Elizabeth's suitor. There is also plotting, kidnapping, shooting and much scandalous behavior.
After many many pages, love prevails, and a very extended ending includes years and year into the futures of everyone involved.
Tiresome, in need of heavy editing (every sucessive scene was written all the time, almost like reading as a live-stream!), and passionate behavior that was out of character, lacking in historical accuracy and rings of wild fanfic more than high quality, curated adaptation/variation.
My two cents: skip this one and pick up two shorter adaptations with a higher rating instead.
Darcy goes to Netherfield as a married man, albeit a marriage in name only. He did it to silence family scandal (illegitimate children and all), so he is not free to pursue Elizabeth though he loves her. She also falls in-love with him instantly, but must seek a possible and advantageous match. There are a million villains here, including Mrs. Darcy, an alternate Wickham (who never went to Merryton) and Elizabeth's suitor. There is also plotting, kidnapping, shooting and much scandalous behavior.
After many many pages, love prevails, and a very extended ending includes years and year into the futures of everyone involved.
Tiresome, in need of heavy editing (every sucessive scene was written all the time, almost like reading as a live-stream!), and passionate behavior that was out of character, lacking in historical accuracy and rings of wild fanfic more than high quality, curated adaptation/variation.
My two cents: skip this one and pick up two shorter adaptations with a higher rating instead.
May 21, 2019
Angst aplenty
An action-packed, angst-filled tale. Definitely worth a read. I almost always enjoy a story with added Darcy-Fitzwilliam characters and these do not disappoint.
An action-packed, angst-filled tale. Definitely worth a read. I almost always enjoy a story with added Darcy-Fitzwilliam characters and these do not disappoint.
January 26, 2018
I absolutely love it! Unputdownable!
This actionfilled, thriller with lots of romantic and passionate moments made my heart pound and my hands tremble as I read. There is not a dull moment in this book but your equilibrium will be reset with some happy moments towards the end, thankfully ;)
As Darcy enters Meryton, he stops at the bookseller and meets a sprite between the bookshelves that he will not easily forget.
An escaped goat, a downpour and a secluded cabin later, he sees the danger he is in and flees.
Elizabeth is heart-broken and when she later learn that he is married, she is intent on forgetting him.
It will turn out to be not so easily done though...
After Bingley leaves Netherfield rather abruptly, Elizabeth is summoned to London by her aunt who is better connected than it would seem.
She enters a courtship with a Lord an leaves for Ramsgate to visit. In Ramsgate she meets Georgina and her aunt. After saving the day, she soon finds herself in need of rescuing... Meeting up with Darcy and a very romantic sewing of a wound (believe it or not) their mutual attraction can no longer be denied.
There are plenty if obstacles to overcome though. First and foremost, Darcy is married, not really by his choice, and Gisele Darcy is quite a character.
Conniving with Wickham and lady Catherine to make Darcy's life as miserable as possible and get their hands on as much of his wealth as possible. Mrs Bennet is not helping and neither are Mrs Gardiner, surprisingly. Haven't seen her potraited in this way before which I thought was rather unique. Caroline Bingley is up to mischief but one of the more satisfying traits of this book is that the villains will get their deserved comeuppance. Heartily approve of the way it was done.
Ends in a lovely epilogue that will reveal their children amongst other things.
Heartily recommend this book!
This actionfilled, thriller with lots of romantic and passionate moments made my heart pound and my hands tremble as I read. There is not a dull moment in this book but your equilibrium will be reset with some happy moments towards the end, thankfully ;)
As Darcy enters Meryton, he stops at the bookseller and meets a sprite between the bookshelves that he will not easily forget.
An escaped goat, a downpour and a secluded cabin later, he sees the danger he is in and flees.
Elizabeth is heart-broken and when she later learn that he is married, she is intent on forgetting him.
It will turn out to be not so easily done though...
After Bingley leaves Netherfield rather abruptly, Elizabeth is summoned to London by her aunt who is better connected than it would seem.
She enters a courtship with a Lord an leaves for Ramsgate to visit. In Ramsgate she meets Georgina and her aunt. After saving the day, she soon finds herself in need of rescuing... Meeting up with Darcy and a very romantic sewing of a wound (believe it or not) their mutual attraction can no longer be denied.
There are plenty if obstacles to overcome though. First and foremost, Darcy is married, not really by his choice, and Gisele Darcy is quite a character.
Conniving with Wickham and lady Catherine to make Darcy's life as miserable as possible and get their hands on as much of his wealth as possible. Mrs Bennet is not helping and neither are Mrs Gardiner, surprisingly. Haven't seen her potraited in this way before which I thought was rather unique. Caroline Bingley is up to mischief but one of the more satisfying traits of this book is that the villains will get their deserved comeuppance. Heartily approve of the way it was done.
Ends in a lovely epilogue that will reveal their children amongst other things.
Heartily recommend this book!
October 26, 2015
The plot and characters were very interesting but it just kept going on and on and on!
November 27, 2017
This story starts when Mr Darcy falls in love at first sight (pretty much) with Elizabeth when he meets her in the bookshop in Meryton. Their paths cross again resulting in a compromising situation. Mr Bennet demands Darcy marries Lizzy. He says he would love, to were that it not for the complication that he is already married! Oh dear....
This book is long... about 13 hours reading time. It also a story that goes much wider than the original with a range of new characters that make for an interesting tale. There are some real villains... Gisela Darcy, Lady Catherine and Wickham. Mrs Bennet is just awful and unfortunately so is Mrs Gardiner. I think to enjoy this book the reader has to be ok with the personalities of some of the major characters being different. For British readers, the 'Americanisms' in this book are also a little distracting, but admittedly not as bad as in some other books if this type.
For a book that is so long, it wasn't a difficult read. There is a lot of drama affecting other central characters which I was just as interested in. I think one of the things I particularly liked about this book was the ending wasn't rushed. It is a real frustration of mine that readers are taken through a long and exhausting journey and then the ending is summarised in a paragraph or Epilogue. The author takes the time at the end to give us the happy ever after we have waited 12 hours to get to!!
I gave 4 stars rather than 5 as I felt a little disagreement between Elizabeth and Darcy felt a bit forced and not in keeping with their relationship. It felt as though it was added to just add some angst and to see them making up afterwards. Also, as much as I enjoyed it, I don't think this would be a book I'd read again.
This book is long... about 13 hours reading time. It also a story that goes much wider than the original with a range of new characters that make for an interesting tale. There are some real villains... Gisela Darcy, Lady Catherine and Wickham. Mrs Bennet is just awful and unfortunately so is Mrs Gardiner. I think to enjoy this book the reader has to be ok with the personalities of some of the major characters being different. For British readers, the 'Americanisms' in this book are also a little distracting, but admittedly not as bad as in some other books if this type.
For a book that is so long, it wasn't a difficult read. There is a lot of drama affecting other central characters which I was just as interested in. I think one of the things I particularly liked about this book was the ending wasn't rushed. It is a real frustration of mine that readers are taken through a long and exhausting journey and then the ending is summarised in a paragraph or Epilogue. The author takes the time at the end to give us the happy ever after we have waited 12 hours to get to!!
I gave 4 stars rather than 5 as I felt a little disagreement between Elizabeth and Darcy felt a bit forced and not in keeping with their relationship. It felt as though it was added to just add some angst and to see them making up afterwards. Also, as much as I enjoyed it, I don't think this would be a book I'd read again.
August 10, 2020
Am definitely becoming a big fan of this author. Another great read, with many layers to the story, lots of action and satisfying conclusions.
My only caveat is (the same as the last book I reviewed) the "loving" is OTT and sugary sweet. I get that lots of readers probably enjoy that aspect of the book. But all it leaves me with is-lets call a spade a spade- It's not so much love as lust. Yes, it is love, but... cmon, its really all about the lust.
Still, I do recommend, it is a nice long, juicy read.
My only caveat is (the same as the last book I reviewed) the "loving" is OTT and sugary sweet. I get that lots of readers probably enjoy that aspect of the book. But all it leaves me with is-lets call a spade a spade- It's not so much love as lust. Yes, it is love, but... cmon, its really all about the lust.
Still, I do recommend, it is a nice long, juicy read.
February 25, 2013
This was a very soap opera-y what-if telling of Pride and Prejudice, but one of the better ones that tend to go that way (there are plenty of horrible and unreadable ones out there). Some areas seemed to go on forever, but overall was a good indulgent read (I read it while stuck in bed sick.).
June 10, 2016
Much, much too long and oh, the melodrama!
February 11, 2025
I loved it!
Warning: It is rated for mature audiences. Depicts passionate scenes. But it also depicts scenes of violence and abuse.
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. This story is not just a simple retelling, it is an intriguing new story that does not follow canon. It is the story of a love that was meant to be, and a passion too strong to be denied.
When Fitzwilliam Darcy meets Elizabeth Bennet for the first time, he is already married to another woman. Forced into a loveless marriage, in name only, to the widowed Lady Gisela Grantham because of his father’s sins, Darcy is obliged by honour to remain in the marriage to hide a dark secret.That unhappy part of his life, however, is quickly coming to an end as he meets the love of his life in a little-known village in Hertfordshire. 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.
Warning: It is rated for mature audiences. Depicts passionate scenes. But it also depicts scenes of violence and abuse.
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. This story is not just a simple retelling, it is an intriguing new story that does not follow canon. It is the story of a love that was meant to be, and a passion too strong to be denied.
When Fitzwilliam Darcy meets Elizabeth Bennet for the first time, he is already married to another woman. Forced into a loveless marriage, in name only, to the widowed Lady Gisela Grantham because of his father’s sins, Darcy is obliged by honour to remain in the marriage to hide a dark secret.That unhappy part of his life, however, is quickly coming to an end as he meets the love of his life in a little-known village in Hertfordshire. 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.
November 17, 2023
I confess that I vacillated between 4 and 5 stars, but landed on the fifth as the author did not do anything outrageous except that Darcy would be able to 'complete' Elizabeth her first time having sex without any of the pregame fun. The murder, death, mayhem, miserable wife, and unkind aunt Gardiner, no problem. That was pure fantasy! Aside from that, it was a long tale of love that was not exactly forbidden, just made to be considered such given that Darcy was married. However, if one looks beyond that, they will find a Colonel Fitzwilliam worth reading for, a wonderful Mr. Bingley, and a most enjoyable Fitzwilliam family amidst the villains. I was looking at the date of purchase, being 2013, and here at the ten-years-later point, I am glad I picked it from amongst those I hoped to read this year!
April 12, 2020
A lot of twist and turns
It's a decent book and I didn't get bored reading it, but since I'm not willing to read it twice the most I can give it is 3 stars. I enjoyed the early part of the book when Darcy met Elizabeth for the first time. There were a lot going on in this book and I was okay with it. What has me puzzled was Darcy and Elizabeth relationship didn't seem to develop. It was love at first sight, but after that they would just say how much they love each other or Darcy would mention that he would always protect her, but there wasn't any other meaningful dialogue between the two.
It's a decent book and I didn't get bored reading it, but since I'm not willing to read it twice the most I can give it is 3 stars. I enjoyed the early part of the book when Darcy met Elizabeth for the first time. There were a lot going on in this book and I was okay with it. What has me puzzled was Darcy and Elizabeth relationship didn't seem to develop. It was love at first sight, but after that they would just say how much they love each other or Darcy would mention that he would always protect her, but there wasn't any other meaningful dialogue between the two.
July 5, 2020
Oh Aunt Gardiner!
It always hurts my heart a little when a character who I consider beloved is turned into a miscreant. Aunt Gardiner was quite selfish in this tale, and if it was to be so, I would have at least enjoyed having seen her given a good set down. There were a lot of bits to this story with some new family characters, all of whom I enjoyed. Also some new villains, who were well written into the story. Good dialogue throughout. Good footnotes with a format that provides easy links right back to the story. Nice touch. Some mild angst, but nothing this angst-averse reader couldn’t handle.
It always hurts my heart a little when a character who I consider beloved is turned into a miscreant. Aunt Gardiner was quite selfish in this tale, and if it was to be so, I would have at least enjoyed having seen her given a good set down. There were a lot of bits to this story with some new family characters, all of whom I enjoyed. Also some new villains, who were well written into the story. Good dialogue throughout. Good footnotes with a format that provides easy links right back to the story. Nice touch. Some mild angst, but nothing this angst-averse reader couldn’t handle.
October 4, 2017
Multifaceted story
I would have given this book 5 stars but it has an ending that is anti - climatic. It is an interesting story which has Darcy in a loveless marriage with a vindictive and revengeful woman. Elizabeth and Darcy fall in love but can't be together. A wicked Wickham and evil Aunt Catherine try to do their worst. Elizabeth's mother is her usual horrible self and even the Gardiners aren't at their usual best. This is a story with lots of intrigue and romance but could have easily been reduced by several chapters at the end. It is worth a read.
I would have given this book 5 stars but it has an ending that is anti - climatic. It is an interesting story which has Darcy in a loveless marriage with a vindictive and revengeful woman. Elizabeth and Darcy fall in love but can't be together. A wicked Wickham and evil Aunt Catherine try to do their worst. Elizabeth's mother is her usual horrible self and even the Gardiners aren't at their usual best. This is a story with lots of intrigue and romance but could have easily been reduced by several chapters at the end. It is worth a read.
December 31, 2017
An interesting variation
As Darcy arrives in Meryton to visit Bingley at Netherfield, he first stops at a book shop where he meets Elizabeth. He is instantly struck by her beauty and lively personality. This is the woman who should be sharing his life, but alas, he is already married.
While the story is filled with angst and danger, it provides an interesting perspective of how love conquers all and how patience and trust will guide you through the obstacles set in your path.
86
As Darcy arrives in Meryton to visit Bingley at Netherfield, he first stops at a book shop where he meets Elizabeth. He is instantly struck by her beauty and lively personality. This is the woman who should be sharing his life, but alas, he is already married.
While the story is filled with angst and danger, it provides an interesting perspective of how love conquers all and how patience and trust will guide you through the obstacles set in your path.
86
March 6, 2020
Best JAFF I've ever read
Honestly one of the best JAFF I've ever read, and surprisingly uplifting and not angsty given the plot. I love the unusual take with Aunt Gardiner and giving Darcy the extended family he needs! Most of all though I'm grateful for the footnotes, I am sure many are familiar with some of the things she notes but it shows the research that she put in and her knowledge of the time and place. Despite having a love for romance fiction I rarely get emotional reading them and by the end I was crying happy tears, and feeling all warm and fuzzy.
Honestly one of the best JAFF I've ever read, and surprisingly uplifting and not angsty given the plot. I love the unusual take with Aunt Gardiner and giving Darcy the extended family he needs! Most of all though I'm grateful for the footnotes, I am sure many are familiar with some of the things she notes but it shows the research that she put in and her knowledge of the time and place. Despite having a love for romance fiction I rarely get emotional reading them and by the end I was crying happy tears, and feeling all warm and fuzzy.
April 12, 2023
I gave up on this trying to read it a second time at 19%; when it was mentioned a brother would strike his sister. I don’t read abuse at all and would appreciate warnings about it. I read this a long time ago before JAFF exploded in popularity and I accepted EVERYTHING.
Now, I see that this is NOT Pride and Prejudice in any way, shape or form. Only the character names are the same. Everyone was acting out of character and when Mrs Gardiner showed signs of pushing Elizabeth toward the abusive Earl for…reasons; I gave up.
Now, I see that this is NOT Pride and Prejudice in any way, shape or form. Only the character names are the same. Everyone was acting out of character and when Mrs Gardiner showed signs of pushing Elizabeth toward the abusive Earl for…reasons; I gave up.
August 6, 2023
A Story of Abiding Love
I loved the dialog in this book. That told the story and drew me in! The author did a beautiful job using dialog to explain emotions, antics between the cousins and personalities came alive. Ms. Webb is a talented author I look forward to reading more of her books. This is one of my favorites!!
If your a fan of Jane Austen you will be captivated by this beautiful story of love, jealousy and greed. Twists and turns never a boring moment!
I loved the dialog in this book. That told the story and drew me in! The author did a beautiful job using dialog to explain emotions, antics between the cousins and personalities came alive. Ms. Webb is a talented author I look forward to reading more of her books. This is one of my favorites!!
If your a fan of Jane Austen you will be captivated by this beautiful story of love, jealousy and greed. Twists and turns never a boring moment!
March 5, 2025
Mr. Daddy's Forbidden Love
And oh what a love story.
Darcy is unhappily married to prevent scandal. Never says where the missing pages of letter are (from wince scandal could come from.)
Long involved story, murder, indecent, blackmail, embezzlement, accusations, kidnapping.... Just about everything you can imagine could go wrong does. Then weddings, gatherings and children.
You get it all!
And oh what a love story.
Darcy is unhappily married to prevent scandal. Never says where the missing pages of letter are (from wince scandal could come from.)
Long involved story, murder, indecent, blackmail, embezzlement, accusations, kidnapping.... Just about everything you can imagine could go wrong does. Then weddings, gatherings and children.
You get it all!
May 17, 2019
Another fantastic variation by Brenda Webb
Absolutely loved this book. Parts were hard to read with so much suspense....but worth every second of reading. A nice long book....loved the length. I was so disappointed in Aunt Gardiner though. She has always been a rock for Elizabeth ....not in this story. Overall....absolutely wonderful book
Absolutely loved this book. Parts were hard to read with so much suspense....but worth every second of reading. A nice long book....loved the length. I was so disappointed in Aunt Gardiner though. She has always been a rock for Elizabeth ....not in this story. Overall....absolutely wonderful book
April 20, 2024
This is a long, enjoyable read and so much happens right up to the end. I recommend it to everyone because every character has a major part in the story.
It is nice to buy a book that keeps me company for a long time. So many authors split their books into several parts and I find it so annoying.
Thank you Ms Webb for a great experience.
It is nice to buy a book that keeps me company for a long time. So many authors split their books into several parts and I find it so annoying.
Thank you Ms Webb for a great experience.
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