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The Darcys of Derbyshire: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
What are Men to Rocks and Mountains?
Elizabeth Bennet longs to see the view from the famous Black Rocks in Derbyshire, but her aunt and uncle refuse to allow her to climb to the highest rock outcroppings alone. Elizabeth's distress is only worsened by a chance encounter with Mr. Darcy -- at least until he offers to escort her to the top. But unbeknownst to her, the Black Rocks have a very special meaning for him. As Darcy tells her the tale of his parents' courtship and marriage, Elizabeth, like Darcy's mother before her, is forced to confront the true power of family and destiny atop the Black Rocks..
Elizabeth Bennet longs to see the view from the famous Black Rocks in Derbyshire, but her aunt and uncle refuse to allow her to climb to the highest rock outcroppings alone. Elizabeth's distress is only worsened by a chance encounter with Mr. Darcy -- at least until he offers to escort her to the top. But unbeknownst to her, the Black Rocks have a very special meaning for him. As Darcy tells her the tale of his parents' courtship and marriage, Elizabeth, like Darcy's mother before her, is forced to confront the true power of family and destiny atop the Black Rocks..
103 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2013
80 people are currently reading
590 people want to read
About the author
Abigail Reynolds
61 books779 followersAbigail Reynolds may be a nationally bestselling author and a physician, but she can’t follow a straight line with a ruler. Originally from upstate New York, she studied Russian and theater at Bryn Mawr College and marine biology at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole. After a stint in performing arts administration, she decided to attend medical school, and took up writing as a way to retain her sanity during her years as a physician in private practice.
A life-long lover of Jane Austen’s novels, Abigail began writing variations on Pride & Prejudice in 2001, then expanded her repertoire to include a series of novels set on her beloved Cape Cod.Her most recent releases are A Matter of Honor, Mr. Darcy's Enchantment, and Conceit & Concealment. Her books have been translated into six languages. A lifetime member of JASNA, she lives on Cape Cod with her husband, her son and a menagerie of animals. Her hobbies do not include sleeping or cleaning her house.
A life-long lover of Jane Austen’s novels, Abigail began writing variations on Pride & Prejudice in 2001, then expanded her repertoire to include a series of novels set on her beloved Cape Cod.Her most recent releases are A Matter of Honor, Mr. Darcy's Enchantment, and Conceit & Concealment. Her books have been translated into six languages. A lifetime member of JASNA, she lives on Cape Cod with her husband, her son and a menagerie of animals. Her hobbies do not include sleeping or cleaning her house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
August 24, 2016
Love blooms in the Black Rocks of Derbyshire, in three parts.
What a refreshing novella and so delightful. It was a quick read and presented something completely different. I loved this novella as it was featured in three parts.
Part one has us with Elizabeth traveling Derbyshire with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. They are in the Black Rocks area and in the '95 movie version we saw Elizabeth climbing those rocks and looking out over the valley. In this version, the Gardiners don’t let Elizabeth climb by herself. So she was stuck at the bottom.
During their picnic she longingly looked up and saw a well-dressed man extending his hand as though he was throwing something off the top of the rocks [it is so moving when you learn what it was]. When he descended the trail, she was stunned and surprised to see that it was Mr. Darcy. He in turn was stunned and surprised to see Miss Elizabeth Bennet in Derbyshire. This mirrored their meeting at Pemberley and introductions were made and Mr. Darcy was impressed with the Gardiners. Elizabeth was just glad she had relations that did not embarrass her. Mr. Darcy offered the fishing excursion to Mr. Gardiner. Convinced that Elizabeth wanted to see the view from the top, Mr. Darcy offered to escort her. As they journeyed to the top, he told her of it being his mothers’ favorite place. When he reached the top he told her their love story.
Part two is most excellent as Darcy tells Elizabeth the lovely story of how his parents met, fell in love and how the senior Mr. Darcy attempted to court Darcy’s mother. We learn of the financial burdens of the Fitzwilliam family, the need of a bail out by the banker Mr. Berg [not a typo…it will be explained] and Catherine’s place in the story. OMG!!! How creative and different this variation was for us to enjoy. I’d never seen this take on our story. I loved it. My poor little romantic heart was so touched by the history of the outstanding couple that we have loved throughout hundreds of P&P variations. There are a few stories that paint a bad senior Darcy, but not many.
Part three brings us back to Elizabeth and Darcy still at the top of the hill. Both have been touched and moved by Darcy’s rendition of his parents’ love story. I can’t reveal any further so I won’t spoil anything. It was a delight. It can be read in a couple of hours and it was simply a feel good novella. Reynolds did an outstanding job.
What a refreshing novella and so delightful. It was a quick read and presented something completely different. I loved this novella as it was featured in three parts.
Part one has us with Elizabeth traveling Derbyshire with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. They are in the Black Rocks area and in the '95 movie version we saw Elizabeth climbing those rocks and looking out over the valley. In this version, the Gardiners don’t let Elizabeth climb by herself. So she was stuck at the bottom.
During their picnic she longingly looked up and saw a well-dressed man extending his hand as though he was throwing something off the top of the rocks [it is so moving when you learn what it was]. When he descended the trail, she was stunned and surprised to see that it was Mr. Darcy. He in turn was stunned and surprised to see Miss Elizabeth Bennet in Derbyshire. This mirrored their meeting at Pemberley and introductions were made and Mr. Darcy was impressed with the Gardiners. Elizabeth was just glad she had relations that did not embarrass her. Mr. Darcy offered the fishing excursion to Mr. Gardiner. Convinced that Elizabeth wanted to see the view from the top, Mr. Darcy offered to escort her. As they journeyed to the top, he told her of it being his mothers’ favorite place. When he reached the top he told her their love story.
Part two is most excellent as Darcy tells Elizabeth the lovely story of how his parents met, fell in love and how the senior Mr. Darcy attempted to court Darcy’s mother. We learn of the financial burdens of the Fitzwilliam family, the need of a bail out by the banker Mr. Berg [not a typo…it will be explained] and Catherine’s place in the story. OMG!!! How creative and different this variation was for us to enjoy. I’d never seen this take on our story. I loved it. My poor little romantic heart was so touched by the history of the outstanding couple that we have loved throughout hundreds of P&P variations. There are a few stories that paint a bad senior Darcy, but not many.
Part three brings us back to Elizabeth and Darcy still at the top of the hill. Both have been touched and moved by Darcy’s rendition of his parents’ love story. I can’t reveal any further so I won’t spoil anything. It was a delight. It can be read in a couple of hours and it was simply a feel good novella. Reynolds did an outstanding job.
December 4, 2013
This short 'what if' variation on Pride and Prejudice picks up with Elizabeth touring in Derbyshire with the Gardiners, before they visit Pemberley. They are having a picnic at a beauty spot and Elizabeth longs to climb up to the top of the nearby rocks, but the Gardiners won't allow it. She sees a man descending from the climb who looks familiar, and lo and behold it's Mr Darcy. He offers to escort her safely up to the top. She is embarrassed of course, but 'What are men to rocks and mountains?'. She accepts his offer and while on the mountains, Mr Darcy tells her the story of his parent's romance, and why this spot was of importance to them, and hence important to him. As we know, Elizabeth is open to changing her mind about Mr Darcy so perhaps this will let her see another side of Mr Darcy?
The story of the Darcys and how they came to fall in love and marry made up a large section of the novella and it was really charming. I bought this book to cheer myself up and it certainly worked, I found myself smiling nearly all the way through it.
The only word of warning that I'd give is also in the product description, and that is the novella isn't particularly long, plus there's an excerpt of another book at the end. It only took me about 50 mins to read, but I am a fast reader. Since I was aware it was short I wasn't disappointed. Although I'd always like a bit more, because I'm greedy, the story doesn't feel over short. I really enjoyed this novella and I'd certainly recommend it.
The story of the Darcys and how they came to fall in love and marry made up a large section of the novella and it was really charming. I bought this book to cheer myself up and it certainly worked, I found myself smiling nearly all the way through it.
The only word of warning that I'd give is also in the product description, and that is the novella isn't particularly long, plus there's an excerpt of another book at the end. It only took me about 50 mins to read, but I am a fast reader. Since I was aware it was short I wasn't disappointed. Although I'd always like a bit more, because I'm greedy, the story doesn't feel over short. I really enjoyed this novella and I'd certainly recommend it.
December 4, 2013
I greatly enjoyed my second story by Abigail Reynolds – although only a novella it was a very sweet little book with a great story! Hearing the account of Darcy’s parent’s courtship gave great background and a new dimension to Darcy’s character and a real insight into his childhood which was fascinating.
I thought it was very clever how as Darcy begins to tell the tale to Elizabeth, instead of just hearing his account, it jumps back to the time and we see the story unfold as it is happening. It was a very endearing story between his parents and I felt myself being drawn into just as much as Elizabeth was! When we return to the present and see the effect and true implication of this romance between his parents in relation to the current Mr Darcy and Elizabeth and the scenes which follow are very romantic... But I do not wish to give anything away.
This was a really sweet little story and very unique and unlike any other variation I have read before. The use of his parent’s courtship in aiding the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth was a novel idea, and I enjoyed the detailed insight this story gave into Darcy's continued and ardent love and admiration of Elizabeth. It was an enjoyable escape into the world of Darcy and Elizabeth for an hour or two.
I thought it was very clever how as Darcy begins to tell the tale to Elizabeth, instead of just hearing his account, it jumps back to the time and we see the story unfold as it is happening. It was a very endearing story between his parents and I felt myself being drawn into just as much as Elizabeth was! When we return to the present and see the effect and true implication of this romance between his parents in relation to the current Mr Darcy and Elizabeth and the scenes which follow are very romantic... But I do not wish to give anything away.
This was a really sweet little story and very unique and unlike any other variation I have read before. The use of his parent’s courtship in aiding the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth was a novel idea, and I enjoyed the detailed insight this story gave into Darcy's continued and ardent love and admiration of Elizabeth. It was an enjoyable escape into the world of Darcy and Elizabeth for an hour or two.
September 24, 2017
Dear Reader,
This was such a lovely story detailing the determined efforts one particular Mr Darcy made to marry the woman he fell instantly in love with,one who alas was promised to another.
I loved the story of James and Anne's courtship,of their certainly that they were meant for each other and the fact that neither gave up when it seemed that theirs was a hopeless situation.
I also loved the parallels with the younger Mr Darcy,how tradition prevailed and how both he and Lizzy realised that they too were the perfect partner for the other and were very happily reconciled to their fate.
A touching romantic story and while I relished the fact that Lizzy and Darcy came to such a sweet understanding,I just adored the tale of Darcy's parents' meeting and final marriage.
Highly recommended!
This was such a lovely story detailing the determined efforts one particular Mr Darcy made to marry the woman he fell instantly in love with,one who alas was promised to another.
I loved the story of James and Anne's courtship,of their certainly that they were meant for each other and the fact that neither gave up when it seemed that theirs was a hopeless situation.
I also loved the parallels with the younger Mr Darcy,how tradition prevailed and how both he and Lizzy realised that they too were the perfect partner for the other and were very happily reconciled to their fate.
A touching romantic story and while I relished the fact that Lizzy and Darcy came to such a sweet understanding,I just adored the tale of Darcy's parents' meeting and final marriage.
Highly recommended!
December 3, 2024
Lovely!
While Elizabeth is visiting Derbyshire with the Gardiners, they are surprised to meet Darcy as they picnic at the base of the Black Rocks. As he accompanies Elizabeth to the top, he tells her the story of the courtship of his parents and how the men of his family quickly propose when they meet their future brides. A perfectly lovely novella.
September 19, 2022 - Audiobook
Excellent narration and performance by Elizabeth Klett. I really enjoyed it.
While Elizabeth is visiting Derbyshire with the Gardiners, they are surprised to meet Darcy as they picnic at the base of the Black Rocks. As he accompanies Elizabeth to the top, he tells her the story of the courtship of his parents and how the men of his family quickly propose when they meet their future brides. A perfectly lovely novella.
September 19, 2022 - Audiobook
Excellent narration and performance by Elizabeth Klett. I really enjoyed it.
February 2, 2015
I loved this Pride and Prejudice variation that begins at the point when Elizabeth is touring Derbyshire with her Gardiner relations and encounters Darcy near some high lookout rocks. I had never read a story about Darcy's parents so this story within a story was just delightful.
Darcy takes his chance encounter with Elizabeth as a second chance and he uses the backdrop of the beautiful rock formation and overview to tell the story of his parent's love affair. Elizabeth is not indifferent and sees in this new demeanor of a man she read all wrong, her own second chance.
It is a quick story that doesn't really dive in deep with the development and it assumes the reader is familiar with the Pride & Prejudice story. That being said the story felt complete and paced well to the end. The story was just something fun and light. I would recommend it to Austenesque lovers who want something quick and easy for an hour or two of reading.
Darcy takes his chance encounter with Elizabeth as a second chance and he uses the backdrop of the beautiful rock formation and overview to tell the story of his parent's love affair. Elizabeth is not indifferent and sees in this new demeanor of a man she read all wrong, her own second chance.
It is a quick story that doesn't really dive in deep with the development and it assumes the reader is familiar with the Pride & Prejudice story. That being said the story felt complete and paced well to the end. The story was just something fun and light. I would recommend it to Austenesque lovers who want something quick and easy for an hour or two of reading.
February 10, 2022
Excellent novella. Sweet and clean.
April 20, 2015
What if, while visiting The Black Rocks on their tour of the Peak District, Elizabeth Bennet and the Gardiners unexpectedly encounter Mr. Darcy paying tribute to one of his mother’s favorite places in Derbsyhire?
Seizing the opportunity to improve Elizabeth’s opinion of him and have some precious private conversation, Mr. Darcy invites Elizabeth to ascend to the peak of The Black Rocks with him (a climb she greatly desires to make!) On the trek uphill, Darcy talks of visiting The Black Rocks as a child with his parents, which leads Elizabeth to ask about his parent’s relationship (a topic she thinks is neutral and safe). The tale Darcy tells of their meeting and engagement is romantic and magical, and mesmerizes Elizabeth as she learns to understand a whole new side of Fitzwilliam Darcy…
Two love stories in one! Instead of focusing primarily on Darcy and Elizabeth, this tale begins by retelling how James Darcy and Anne Fitzwilliam, after a good amount of obstacles, come to an understanding. Their romance was sweet and emotionally stirring. How special it was to learn more about Mr. and Mrs. Darcy and how they fell in love! I loved hearing about their history, learning their personalities, and discovering how it is a tradition for all Darcy men to suffer from the same affliction when it comes to love and marriage!
And then we have Darcy and Elizabeth…unsure what the other is thinking, afraid to say or do the wrong thing, and overcome with feeling. (Just like we love to see them!) And Abigail Reynolds is so wonderfully skilled at portraying our dear couples in such emotionally-charged and intensely-romantic scenes. I especially love how these scenes took place surrounded by the beautiful and natural scenery of rugged rocks and mountains! Very memorable and very moving.
Looking for a quick romantic story to delight and enchant? The Darcys of Derbyshire definitely fits the bill! Imagine climbing to the tallest peak and achieving your happily ever after…Spending an hour or two amongst the rocks with Mr. Darcy is definitely my idea of an afternoon well-spent! Thank you for sharing such a beautiful tale with us, Abigail Reynolds!
Seizing the opportunity to improve Elizabeth’s opinion of him and have some precious private conversation, Mr. Darcy invites Elizabeth to ascend to the peak of The Black Rocks with him (a climb she greatly desires to make!) On the trek uphill, Darcy talks of visiting The Black Rocks as a child with his parents, which leads Elizabeth to ask about his parent’s relationship (a topic she thinks is neutral and safe). The tale Darcy tells of their meeting and engagement is romantic and magical, and mesmerizes Elizabeth as she learns to understand a whole new side of Fitzwilliam Darcy…
Two love stories in one! Instead of focusing primarily on Darcy and Elizabeth, this tale begins by retelling how James Darcy and Anne Fitzwilliam, after a good amount of obstacles, come to an understanding. Their romance was sweet and emotionally stirring. How special it was to learn more about Mr. and Mrs. Darcy and how they fell in love! I loved hearing about their history, learning their personalities, and discovering how it is a tradition for all Darcy men to suffer from the same affliction when it comes to love and marriage!
And then we have Darcy and Elizabeth…unsure what the other is thinking, afraid to say or do the wrong thing, and overcome with feeling. (Just like we love to see them!) And Abigail Reynolds is so wonderfully skilled at portraying our dear couples in such emotionally-charged and intensely-romantic scenes. I especially love how these scenes took place surrounded by the beautiful and natural scenery of rugged rocks and mountains! Very memorable and very moving.
Looking for a quick romantic story to delight and enchant? The Darcys of Derbyshire definitely fits the bill! Imagine climbing to the tallest peak and achieving your happily ever after…Spending an hour or two amongst the rocks with Mr. Darcy is definitely my idea of an afternoon well-spent! Thank you for sharing such a beautiful tale with us, Abigail Reynolds!
March 21, 2015
I have had this novella for some time now and have read it multiple times - it is perfect when you need a touch of romance but don't have a lot of time. You know this author is going to deliver.
The meeting of Darcy with Elizabeth and her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner at a black rock tor occurs after the Hunsford proposal and Elizabeth's reading of the letter. She is desirous of climbing to the top of the rock formation but her relatives refuse to go on and won't allow her to do so alone. When a tall gentleman whom they espied standing at the top climbs down and ventures onto their picnic spot Elizabeth is abashed to see it is Mr. Darcy. He, in turn, is taken aback and in learning that they have not climbed to the top and that Elizabeth longs to do so offers to be her guide and guardian for the climb. She accepts and is allowed to go.
The climb becomes an opportunity for Darcy to relate to Elizabeth why the spot is so significant to his family, why he comes there regularly and on a certain anniversary and why he tosses rose petals into the wind at the top. It is simultaneously an opportunity to explain about a certain Darcy trait and his parents' courtship.
As the tale ends at the top ODC have feelings emerge or evidence that show Hunsford didn't kill any regard nor did it slam shut the door on possibilities.
This is a lovely sweet tale, told with all the best nuances as Abigail is so good with. The touches, the looks, the warm breath upon an ear...sigh. Sweet dreams, readers.
The meeting of Darcy with Elizabeth and her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner at a black rock tor occurs after the Hunsford proposal and Elizabeth's reading of the letter. She is desirous of climbing to the top of the rock formation but her relatives refuse to go on and won't allow her to do so alone. When a tall gentleman whom they espied standing at the top climbs down and ventures onto their picnic spot Elizabeth is abashed to see it is Mr. Darcy. He, in turn, is taken aback and in learning that they have not climbed to the top and that Elizabeth longs to do so offers to be her guide and guardian for the climb. She accepts and is allowed to go.
The climb becomes an opportunity for Darcy to relate to Elizabeth why the spot is so significant to his family, why he comes there regularly and on a certain anniversary and why he tosses rose petals into the wind at the top. It is simultaneously an opportunity to explain about a certain Darcy trait and his parents' courtship.
As the tale ends at the top ODC have feelings emerge or evidence that show Hunsford didn't kill any regard nor did it slam shut the door on possibilities.
This is a lovely sweet tale, told with all the best nuances as Abigail is so good with. The touches, the looks, the warm breath upon an ear...sigh. Sweet dreams, readers.
July 17, 2019
A meeting in Derbyshire
Lizzy is with the Gardiners on vacation in the Peak District in Derbyshire. At a picnic who should they run into but Mr. Darcy.
The story is about this meeting. I know that doesn’t sound very interesting but it’s just because I’m try not to give away the story.
I can’t imagine anyone not enjoying this story, even if they have never read P&P.
I recommend it highly.
Lizzy is with the Gardiners on vacation in the Peak District in Derbyshire. At a picnic who should they run into but Mr. Darcy.
The story is about this meeting. I know that doesn’t sound very interesting but it’s just because I’m try not to give away the story.
I can’t imagine anyone not enjoying this story, even if they have never read P&P.
I recommend it highly.
March 13, 2018
Adorable 😀
#18. A book with a location in the title
#18. A book with a location in the title
May 24, 2014
This book is about Mr Darcy's parents' courtship, with the added bonus of Elizabeth and Darcy getting together. It is a short but satisfying read, hence this review will be difficult to execute without telling you the story myself!
Darcy spots Elizabeth while she and the Gardiners are having a picnic in Derbyshire, having missed the opportunity to have met Elizabeth at Pemberley, is this his chance? Elizabeth also spots Mr Darcy who is standing at the top of a cliff, (although at the time she does not know it is him).
Elizabeth would love to climb to the spot where she sees this man standing (Darcy) but the Gardiners would prefer she not attempt it on her own. When Darcy descends he recognises Elizabeth and approaches her. After being introduce to the Gardiners, he finds out about Elizabeth's desire to go to the top of the cliff and offers to accompany her.
The view is breathtaking and so sets the scene for Darcy to impart the story of his parents courtship. Such was Abigail's description I felt as though I was there and once I got drawn into Darcy's story I had to be careful to remember where I was, less I fell off the cliff as a result of a miss step. The intensity and fire that is created between Darcy and Elizabeth is all down to the magic that is Abigail Reynolds, she has a wonderful gift of creating moments full of tension and feeling. So while feeling the electricity between the two, I had to remind myself to breath.
He froze, unable to believe it was real. Most likely dreaming or delirious, some rational part of his brain concluded, but his body told him he was definitely not asleep. If he was delirious, he only hoped to remain so for as long as possible. - Abigail Reynolds
The story of Darcy's parents comes close to rivalling Elizabeth and Darcy's own love affair. It was truly a fascinating tale, did you know that Darcy's father was a second son and in the army when he met Lady Anne? No I am sure you did not and I was just as surprised, it was a great idea and added a further dimension to the story.
Following the premise that all Darcy men seem to fall in love almost instantaneously, this idea married in with Darcy's infatuation with Elizabeth and tied into the story brilliantly. It was a story I got lost in, I was totally immersed from beginning to end, which was due to the great story but also down to the fact that Mr Darcy is such a great story teller (made possible by the author of course!) I could picture each scene while standing on the peripheral (or the cliff) looking in, I am pretty sure the house could be burning down around me and I would not have noticed, so drawn in was I, to this tale of ever lasting and enduring love laced with tragedy.
“Yes, to fall in love quickly and irrevocably. My father warned me that men of our family always recognize these things immediately, and are loyal ever afterwards. He proposed to my mother the night they met. My brother was slow about it, waiting a full four days to propose to his wife. My father claimed it was our destiny, like it or not.” - Abigail Reynolds
A truly enchanting read that I did not want to end!
Originally posted on My Kids led Me Back to Pride & Prejudice
Darcy spots Elizabeth while she and the Gardiners are having a picnic in Derbyshire, having missed the opportunity to have met Elizabeth at Pemberley, is this his chance? Elizabeth also spots Mr Darcy who is standing at the top of a cliff, (although at the time she does not know it is him).
Elizabeth would love to climb to the spot where she sees this man standing (Darcy) but the Gardiners would prefer she not attempt it on her own. When Darcy descends he recognises Elizabeth and approaches her. After being introduce to the Gardiners, he finds out about Elizabeth's desire to go to the top of the cliff and offers to accompany her.
The view is breathtaking and so sets the scene for Darcy to impart the story of his parents courtship. Such was Abigail's description I felt as though I was there and once I got drawn into Darcy's story I had to be careful to remember where I was, less I fell off the cliff as a result of a miss step. The intensity and fire that is created between Darcy and Elizabeth is all down to the magic that is Abigail Reynolds, she has a wonderful gift of creating moments full of tension and feeling. So while feeling the electricity between the two, I had to remind myself to breath.
He froze, unable to believe it was real. Most likely dreaming or delirious, some rational part of his brain concluded, but his body told him he was definitely not asleep. If he was delirious, he only hoped to remain so for as long as possible. - Abigail Reynolds
The story of Darcy's parents comes close to rivalling Elizabeth and Darcy's own love affair. It was truly a fascinating tale, did you know that Darcy's father was a second son and in the army when he met Lady Anne? No I am sure you did not and I was just as surprised, it was a great idea and added a further dimension to the story.
Following the premise that all Darcy men seem to fall in love almost instantaneously, this idea married in with Darcy's infatuation with Elizabeth and tied into the story brilliantly. It was a story I got lost in, I was totally immersed from beginning to end, which was due to the great story but also down to the fact that Mr Darcy is such a great story teller (made possible by the author of course!) I could picture each scene while standing on the peripheral (or the cliff) looking in, I am pretty sure the house could be burning down around me and I would not have noticed, so drawn in was I, to this tale of ever lasting and enduring love laced with tragedy.
“Yes, to fall in love quickly and irrevocably. My father warned me that men of our family always recognize these things immediately, and are loyal ever afterwards. He proposed to my mother the night they met. My brother was slow about it, waiting a full four days to propose to his wife. My father claimed it was our destiny, like it or not.” - Abigail Reynolds
A truly enchanting read that I did not want to end!
Originally posted on My Kids led Me Back to Pride & Prejudice
September 10, 2016
This is an absolutely delightful novella. It is off canon with too many what ifs to enumerate. We learn the back story of how Darcy's parents ended up together and how Darcy men impulsively propose.
The secret of Louis deBourgh is revealed and it is humorous.
The secret of Louis deBourgh is revealed and it is humorous.
February 22, 2017
me ha gustado mucho leer otra historia de Elizabeth y Darcy. Fue como leer un fic. de ellos. y realmente me ha gustado mucho como esta escrito. y el gusanillo que tenia de leer como se besaban me la a quitado xD
January 28, 2015
Lovely insight on Darcys parents and the way their story could have led to help Elizabeth accepting . Wonderful story for every lover of austenesque fiction!
December 4, 2013
This is a short novel that tells the story of the courtship between Darcy's parents. Encountering Elizabeth close to his home on travels with her aunt and uncle gives Darcy the opportunity to "practice" conversing with those he has never meet before. He meets them having a picnic at the base of black rock a place Elizabeth longs to climb to the top of but the Gardiners won't allow it until Darcy offers his escort and protection. At that top when they stand to enjoy the view Darcy's brings up his mom and Elizabeth is surprised to learn that his mom would climb rocks instead of embroider cushions all day. This leads to Darcy telling the story of his parents courtship to Elizabeth which gives new insight into The Darcy men, the way they love and the type of relationships Darcy grew up surrounded with. I loved that the story of their courtship was written as though it was just occurring versus sounding like a story. Naturally this causes Darcy to think about how his mom would have loved Elizabeth and he is overcome with emotion for her standing in a spot that is so important to him and opening up to her - sharing a story never told. The only reason for not giving this a 5 stars is how quickly Elizabeth and Darcy's come to an understanding. Of course as typical of Abigail Reynolds you know there will be kissing but would Elizabeth had fallen for Darcy so quickly before he saved Lydia and before he fixed things with Jane and Bingley? I found it too quick and hence my rating. Regardless a sweet story and I wish it was longer!
April 22, 2015
A great book that I wish were longer :) It gives some background about Darcy's parents' marriage -- which is a very touching story -- and then relates Darcy and Elizabeth's HEA. Also gives a nice description of scenery in Derbyshire :)
November 14, 2013
What a lovely story. It is a short story that Darcy shares with Elizabeth about his parents love story. I enjoyed this story. I would recommend the story.
June 10, 2020
Una short story variation di Pride and Prejudice che si basa sul fatto che durante la visita nel Derbyshire, alle famose alture del Peak District davanti alle quali Elizabeth pronuncia la celeberrima frase What are men to rocks and mountains?, lei e gli zii Gardiner incontrino Darcy prima di arrivare a Pemberley. Poiché gli zii sono preoccupati di farla salire da sola in cima a uno dei picchi, si avvalgono dell'offerta di Mr. Darcy - che ne è appena disceso come tributo a sua madre - di accompagnarla.
Durante la salita lui le narra la storia d'amore dei suoi genitori, Anna Fitzwilliam e James Darcy (e sapete perché non si chiama George? Perché George è il suo fratello gemello maggiore di James di un quarto d'ora. Perché, se è vero che Jane Austen non menziona mai il suo nome di battesimo, è altamente probabile che si chiami George, per via di Georgiana e di George Wickham). La storia d'amore è molto intrigante, ma - a mio modesto parere - non combacia con quello che dice Darcy dei propri genitori dopo la seconda dichiarazione a Elizabeth (Unico figlio maschio, per mia sfortuna - e per molti anni unico figlio in assoluto - sono stato viziato dai miei genitori, che, anche se di per sé buoni - mio padre, in particolare, era tutto ciò che si può chiamare benevolenza e simpatia - mi hanno permesso, incoraggiato, quasi insegnato a essere egoista e arrogante, a non curarmi di nessuno se non della mia cerchia familiare, a ritenere inferiore tutto il resto del mondo; o almeno, a desiderare di ritenere inferiore il buonsenso e il valore degli altri in confronto ai miei.)
Poi, durante la permanenza di Darcy ed Elizabeth sull'altura, la discesa e il ricongiungimento con gli zii sembra andare tutto troppo in fretta per poter essere soddisfatti del risultato.
Durante la salita lui le narra la storia d'amore dei suoi genitori, Anna Fitzwilliam e James Darcy (e sapete perché non si chiama George? Perché George è il suo fratello gemello maggiore di James di un quarto d'ora. Perché, se è vero che Jane Austen non menziona mai il suo nome di battesimo, è altamente probabile che si chiami George, per via di Georgiana e di George Wickham). La storia d'amore è molto intrigante, ma - a mio modesto parere - non combacia con quello che dice Darcy dei propri genitori dopo la seconda dichiarazione a Elizabeth (Unico figlio maschio, per mia sfortuna - e per molti anni unico figlio in assoluto - sono stato viziato dai miei genitori, che, anche se di per sé buoni - mio padre, in particolare, era tutto ciò che si può chiamare benevolenza e simpatia - mi hanno permesso, incoraggiato, quasi insegnato a essere egoista e arrogante, a non curarmi di nessuno se non della mia cerchia familiare, a ritenere inferiore tutto il resto del mondo; o almeno, a desiderare di ritenere inferiore il buonsenso e il valore degli altri in confronto ai miei.)
Poi, durante la permanenza di Darcy ed Elizabeth sull'altura, la discesa e il ricongiungimento con gli zii sembra andare tutto troppo in fretta per poter essere soddisfatti del risultato.
June 22, 2020
Elizabeth meets Darcy while picnicking with her Aunt and Uncle near the peaks. He shares a beautiful back story of how his parents met which evolves in a very romantic afternoon for our dear couple.
This is a sweet, emotional story and I wish it was longer!
This is a sweet, emotional story and I wish it was longer!
December 9, 2024
Podría vivir de este tipo de lecturas para siempre, que vivan los hombres que luchan en contra de su sentido común, las expectativas de su familia, la inferioridad social, su posición y circunstancia y terminan casándose con Elizabeth Bennet en cualquier variación 🫰🏻 la posible historia de amor de sus papás es un plus
April 7, 2017
I would've liked it to be longer, but I just adored her inclusion of the history of Darcy's parents. What a nice touch. This novella was so simple & so sweet.
March 19, 2017
Este libro fue un premio del Giveaway organizado por https://www.facebook.com/VariacionesH...
El cual fue en formato electrónico. Muchas gracias por el premio.
Aunque tengo muchos libros en la lista y no he acabado los que ya empece, no pude resistirme a leer este ya que es una historia alterna de Orgullo y Prejuicio, la cual es de mis favoritas, y quería ver de que trataba.
La historia se desarrolla en el tiempo donde Elizabeth esta de viaje con sus tíos y se encuentra con el señor Darcy.
Dentro de esta historia se desarrolla otra, la de los padres del Sr. Darcy.
La historia es algo corta, me hubiera gustado que fuera un poco mas larga. No tiene una trama compleja, es muy simple la historia, pero es linda y me gusto. Soy cursi, en este tipo de cosas.
Lo que mas me gusto fue la historia de los padres de Darcy, mas que las de Lizzie y el, que aunque varias escenas me gustaron, ya que aquí se expresan mas su cariño, cosa que me agrada, pero que también se siente raro, siento que si se cambio un poco el carácter tanto de Darcy como de Lizzie.
En conclusión, es un una historia sencilla, pero linda, disfrute al leerlo.
Ahora al leer este, quiero leer otro de la misma autora: A solas con el Sr. Darcy.
El cual fue en formato electrónico. Muchas gracias por el premio.
Aunque tengo muchos libros en la lista y no he acabado los que ya empece, no pude resistirme a leer este ya que es una historia alterna de Orgullo y Prejuicio, la cual es de mis favoritas, y quería ver de que trataba.
La historia se desarrolla en el tiempo donde Elizabeth esta de viaje con sus tíos y se encuentra con el señor Darcy.
Dentro de esta historia se desarrolla otra, la de los padres del Sr. Darcy.
La historia es algo corta, me hubiera gustado que fuera un poco mas larga. No tiene una trama compleja, es muy simple la historia, pero es linda y me gusto. Soy cursi, en este tipo de cosas.
Lo que mas me gusto fue la historia de los padres de Darcy, mas que las de Lizzie y el, que aunque varias escenas me gustaron, ya que aquí se expresan mas su cariño, cosa que me agrada, pero que también se siente raro, siento que si se cambio un poco el carácter tanto de Darcy como de Lizzie.
En conclusión, es un una historia sencilla, pero linda, disfrute al leerlo.
Ahora al leer este, quiero leer otro de la misma autora: A solas con el Sr. Darcy.
January 1, 2016
Während ihrer Reise durch Derbyshire kommt Lizzy mit ihrer Tante und ihrem Onkel an den bekannten schwarzen Felsen vorbei. Sie ist sofort fasziniert und möchte sie gern besteigen. Durch Zufall treffen die drei auf Mr. Darcy und er erklärt sich bereit den Felsen zusammen mit Lizzy zu besteigen. Am Ende des Weges wartet auf beide eine große Überraschung, die ihr Leben für immer verändern wird.
Ich fand es interessant mehr über die Eltern von Mr. Darcy zu erfahren und dadurch hat sich auch meine Sicht auf ihn verändert. Die Liebesgeschichte der beiden war einfach Herzzerreißend. Die Handlung des Buches hätte sehr toll zu Stolz und Vorurteil gepasst und ich bin ein wenig traurig das die Original Geschichte diese Szenen nicht hatte.
Abigail Reynolds und Jane Austen wären sicher ein tolles Autorenpaar gewesen. Reynolds weiß wie man die Figuren zum Leben erweckt und sie real erscheinen lässt. Lizzy und Mr. Dracy waren sehr authentisch, wenig auch ein wenig leidenschaftlicher als man es von Stolz und Vorurteil gewohnt ist, was mir aber sehr gefallen hat.
Das Buch war sehr unterhaltsam, voller Charm und mit der richtigen Portion an Romantik. Es war klein, aber fein. Der Schreibstil der Autorin hat mir wieder sehr gut gefallen, er war sehr anschaulich. Das ist mein zweites Buch von ihr und ich kann "The Darcys of Derbyshire" sowie "To Conquer Mr. Darcy" nur jedem ans Herz legen, es sind zwei großartige Bücher von ihr!!
Ich fand es interessant mehr über die Eltern von Mr. Darcy zu erfahren und dadurch hat sich auch meine Sicht auf ihn verändert. Die Liebesgeschichte der beiden war einfach Herzzerreißend. Die Handlung des Buches hätte sehr toll zu Stolz und Vorurteil gepasst und ich bin ein wenig traurig das die Original Geschichte diese Szenen nicht hatte.
Abigail Reynolds und Jane Austen wären sicher ein tolles Autorenpaar gewesen. Reynolds weiß wie man die Figuren zum Leben erweckt und sie real erscheinen lässt. Lizzy und Mr. Dracy waren sehr authentisch, wenig auch ein wenig leidenschaftlicher als man es von Stolz und Vorurteil gewohnt ist, was mir aber sehr gefallen hat.
Das Buch war sehr unterhaltsam, voller Charm und mit der richtigen Portion an Romantik. Es war klein, aber fein. Der Schreibstil der Autorin hat mir wieder sehr gut gefallen, er war sehr anschaulich. Das ist mein zweites Buch von ihr und ich kann "The Darcys of Derbyshire" sowie "To Conquer Mr. Darcy" nur jedem ans Herz legen, es sind zwei großartige Bücher von ihr!!
December 3, 2013
Elizabeth Bennet, along with her aunt and uncle, are enjoying a picnic in the Derbyshire countryside when she spots a familiar silhouette on a cliff. What happens when she accepts Darcy's offer to climb to that spot she wishes so desperately to see? Will her views about Darcy change when she 'views' this spectacular vista?
This story is what Abigail Reynolds does best. She juxtaposes emotions, passions and miscommunications into a sweet story about how Darcy's parents met. If you need a short escape, this novella is your passport!
This story is what Abigail Reynolds does best. She juxtaposes emotions, passions and miscommunications into a sweet story about how Darcy's parents met. If you need a short escape, this novella is your passport!
June 25, 2016
In this short Pride and Prejudice novella as Elizabeth is touring with the Gardiners she meets Darcy at the Black Rocks in Derbyshire. As he walks with her to the top of the tor he tell the story of his parents' courtship and the significance of the tors,
An engaging quick read.
An engaging quick read.
December 28, 2016
BLOG: www.adictaxictoxico.blogspot.com
Sobra decir que soy fan loca de Orgullo y Prejuicio... :)
Me encanto este encuentro entre Lizzie y Darcy, pero lo que definitivamente me mato fue la historia de los padres de él.... ;)
Sobra decir que soy fan loca de Orgullo y Prejuicio... :)
Me encanto este encuentro entre Lizzie y Darcy, pero lo que definitivamente me mato fue la historia de los padres de él.... ;)
November 6, 2019
This is a sweet novella.
Instead of encountering Mr. Darcy on the grounds of Pemberley, Lizzie and her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner happen to meet him at a scenic tor a few miles away. Sensing that Lizzie would like to climb to the top and experience the view, Mr. Darcy offers his assistance. Along the way, he tells her about how his mother and father met, and about the Darcy "tradition" of falling in love quickly and permanently. By the time they descend to the picnic area where the Gardiners are waiting, Darcy and Lizzie have come to an "understanding" and are, to all intents and purposes, already engaged.
The best thing about this: no Lydia / Wickham drama. (Although that might occur in the future.)
Editing oversights found in The Darcys of Derbyshire, Kindle version:
Page 3, distance was such it was impossible / distance was such THAT it was impossible ; 11, not to look disappointed we would not allow / not to look disappointed THAT we would not allow ; 11, It seemed odd such a great walker / It seemed odd THAT such a great walker ; 12, promising them she would return soon / promising them THAT she would return soon ; 12, something of a relief since she hardly knew / something of a relief, since she hardly knew ; 25, unaware my betrothal was arranged / unaware THAT my betrothal was arranged ;
Page 28, no point in mentioning her own frequent / no point in mentioning THAT her own frequent ; 62, with complete honesty Anne disgraced herself / with complete honesty THAT Anne disgraced herself ; 65, the world wold look to a bird / the world WOULD look to a bird ; 68, now she was here, all she could / now THAT she was here, all she could ; 75, tolerated so much was her other alternative / tolerated so much was THAT her other alternative ; 89, such a pointed dislike to you I knew / such a pointed dislike to you THAT I knew ;
Page 99, Mr. Darcy's Refuge, Mr. A Pemberley Medley, and Morning Light / Mr. Darcy's Refuge, A Pemberley Medley, and Morning Light (omit "Mr." after "Refuge"; I tried to figure out which title should go there, but there were just too many beginning with "Mr.") .
Instead of encountering Mr. Darcy on the grounds of Pemberley, Lizzie and her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner happen to meet him at a scenic tor a few miles away. Sensing that Lizzie would like to climb to the top and experience the view, Mr. Darcy offers his assistance. Along the way, he tells her about how his mother and father met, and about the Darcy "tradition" of falling in love quickly and permanently. By the time they descend to the picnic area where the Gardiners are waiting, Darcy and Lizzie have come to an "understanding" and are, to all intents and purposes, already engaged.
The best thing about this: no Lydia / Wickham drama. (Although that might occur in the future.)
Editing oversights found in The Darcys of Derbyshire, Kindle version:
Page 3, distance was such it was impossible / distance was such THAT it was impossible ; 11, not to look disappointed we would not allow / not to look disappointed THAT we would not allow ; 11, It seemed odd such a great walker / It seemed odd THAT such a great walker ; 12, promising them she would return soon / promising them THAT she would return soon ; 12, something of a relief since she hardly knew / something of a relief, since she hardly knew ; 25, unaware my betrothal was arranged / unaware THAT my betrothal was arranged ;
Page 28, no point in mentioning her own frequent / no point in mentioning THAT her own frequent ; 62, with complete honesty Anne disgraced herself / with complete honesty THAT Anne disgraced herself ; 65, the world wold look to a bird / the world WOULD look to a bird ; 68, now she was here, all she could / now THAT she was here, all she could ; 75, tolerated so much was her other alternative / tolerated so much was THAT her other alternative ; 89, such a pointed dislike to you I knew / such a pointed dislike to you THAT I knew ;
Page 99, Mr. Darcy's Refuge, Mr. A Pemberley Medley, and Morning Light / Mr. Darcy's Refuge, A Pemberley Medley, and Morning Light (omit "Mr." after "Refuge"; I tried to figure out which title should go there, but there were just too many beginning with "Mr.") .
September 16, 2022
Abigail Reynolds, autrice statunitense appassionata delle opere di Jane Austen, ha riscritto diversi romanzi, che apportano delle variazioni ai testi originali della grande romanziera inglese.
I Darcy del Derbyshire è una novella che prende avvio dall'incontro fortuito di Lizzie e Darcy nei pressi di Pemberley. I due protagonisti sono ancora turbati dal sorprendente rifiuto alla proposta di matrimonio da parte di Lizzie, ma scossi anche profondamente dai sentimenti che provano l'uno per l'altro e che non sanno controllare con la forza della ragione e della razionalità.
Rimasti da soli a scalare un'altura, si ritrovano a parlare della grande storia d'amore dei genitori di Darcy. Dal racconto di lui emerge una sorta di magia, che si ripete di generazione in generazione: sembra che tutti gli uomini di famiglia siamo destinati a provare un unico e grande amore per tutta la vita...
Una lettura gradevolissima, che ci catapulta dentro Orgoglio e Pregiudizio , facendoci rivivere le emozioni del nuovo incontro, dei turbamenti, degli sguardi di sottecchi, delle arguzie dei dialoghi, con un pizzico di passione in più rispetto all'originale.
I Darcy del Derbyshire è una novella che prende avvio dall'incontro fortuito di Lizzie e Darcy nei pressi di Pemberley. I due protagonisti sono ancora turbati dal sorprendente rifiuto alla proposta di matrimonio da parte di Lizzie, ma scossi anche profondamente dai sentimenti che provano l'uno per l'altro e che non sanno controllare con la forza della ragione e della razionalità.
Rimasti da soli a scalare un'altura, si ritrovano a parlare della grande storia d'amore dei genitori di Darcy. Dal racconto di lui emerge una sorta di magia, che si ripete di generazione in generazione: sembra che tutti gli uomini di famiglia siamo destinati a provare un unico e grande amore per tutta la vita...
Una lettura gradevolissima, che ci catapulta dentro Orgoglio e Pregiudizio , facendoci rivivere le emozioni del nuovo incontro, dei turbamenti, degli sguardi di sottecchi, delle arguzie dei dialoghi, con un pizzico di passione in più rispetto all'originale.
April 28, 2018
Lizzy and the Gardiners are visiting the Black Rocks near Mr. Darcy's home in Derbyshire. Lizzy hasn't seen Darcy since he pressed his letter into her hand after his proposal at Hunsford, and she's stunned to see the proud man descending from the rocks. After introducing himself to the Gardiners, Darcy invites Lizzy to climb to the top with him. As they climb, Darcy relates the story of his parents and how James Darcy, a penniless second son, earned the love of Anne Fitzwilliam, an Earl's daughter.
This was such a sweet variation, a story within a story. I appreciate a variation that paints such a loving picture of Darcy's parents. The characters felt true to canon, and the interactions between Lizzy and Darcy were delightful. Elizabeth Klett's narration was wonderful, as always, and highly recommended. It was such a unique novella, I didn't want it to end. As I write this, I already want to listen to it again.
This was such a sweet variation, a story within a story. I appreciate a variation that paints such a loving picture of Darcy's parents. The characters felt true to canon, and the interactions between Lizzy and Darcy were delightful. Elizabeth Klett's narration was wonderful, as always, and highly recommended. It was such a unique novella, I didn't want it to end. As I write this, I already want to listen to it again.
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