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Step Lively, Mr. Darcy
Elizabeth’s mother has lied. Now the horrible Thorpes have come for Christmas!
No matter that the fib is an old one, Elizabeth Bennet’s cousins are certain that she is an heiress. Is not the Bennet’s prosperous estate evidence enough? There is a fortune to be had through marriage, and John Thorpe is hungry for it.
Repelling the man’s advances is only one of Elizabeth’s troubles. John’s sister has a devious plan to become the next mistress of Longbourn. And then there is Jane’s future to consider. Nothing can be allowed to stand in the way of her happiness!
Fitzwilliam Darcy knows exactly why his friend is keen to have Christmas at Netherfield, and her name is Jane Bennet. He agrees to spend one week with Bingley, no more. The lovely Elizabeth will be dangerously nearby. But surely nothing can happen within a single week!
Then Darcy discovers that Elizabeth is badly in need of rescue. What else can he do but lend a hand? Darcy needs to watch his step, however. His foolish heart is all too eager to tumble headlong into love.
Audible Audio
Published July 20, 2023
About the author
Laura Hile
23 books222 followersFaith, Hope, Laughter ... and Happily Ever After
Readers are loving Laura Hile's joyous Austenesque Regency novels. Her signature style---intertwined plots, cliffhangers, and laugh-out-loud humor---keep them coming back for more.
The comedy Laura comes by as a teacher. There's never a dull moment with teen students!
All of Laura's books are enrolled in Kindle Unlimited.
NEW! Laura is currently having novels and novellas produced as audiobooks.
These are available at most audio distribution outlets, including public libraries. Laura Hile Audiobooks, her channel at YouTube, offers her audiobooks for your enjoyment, FREE.
Laura lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and sons. Her fiction is for everyone, even teens.
Awards:
SO THIS IS LOVE:
From Pemberley to Milton: Favorite Reads of 2020
A VERY AUSTEN ROMANCE:
Austenprose: Best Austenesque & Historical Books of 2020 (Short Story Anthology)
A VERY AUSTEN VALENTINE:
More Agreeably Engaged: Favorite Anthology 2018
CIR STRONG AWARD September, 2018:
For outstanding service to independent authors
DARCY BY ANY OTHER NAME:
* Babblings of a Bookworm My Top 10 Favorite Books of 2017
* Just Jane 1813 Reviewer's Favorite, 2016, Darcy By Any Other Name
* 2016 Favorites, Austenesque Reviews
* Top Ten Favorites, 2016, From Pemberley to Milton
* Best Books I Read in 2016, The Book Dragon
* Favorite Books 2016, More Agreeably Engaged
MERCY'S EMBRACE novels:
* Austenprose.com's 2012 Debut Author Award
* Mercy's Embrace as a series, AustenesqueReviews.com's Top Ten (Minor Character)
Readers are loving Laura Hile's joyous Austenesque Regency novels. Her signature style---intertwined plots, cliffhangers, and laugh-out-loud humor---keep them coming back for more.
The comedy Laura comes by as a teacher. There's never a dull moment with teen students!
All of Laura's books are enrolled in Kindle Unlimited.
NEW! Laura is currently having novels and novellas produced as audiobooks.
These are available at most audio distribution outlets, including public libraries. Laura Hile Audiobooks, her channel at YouTube, offers her audiobooks for your enjoyment, FREE.
Laura lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and sons. Her fiction is for everyone, even teens.
Awards:
SO THIS IS LOVE:
From Pemberley to Milton: Favorite Reads of 2020
A VERY AUSTEN ROMANCE:
Austenprose: Best Austenesque & Historical Books of 2020 (Short Story Anthology)
A VERY AUSTEN VALENTINE:
More Agreeably Engaged: Favorite Anthology 2018
CIR STRONG AWARD September, 2018:
For outstanding service to independent authors
DARCY BY ANY OTHER NAME:
* Babblings of a Bookworm My Top 10 Favorite Books of 2017
* Just Jane 1813 Reviewer's Favorite, 2016, Darcy By Any Other Name
* 2016 Favorites, Austenesque Reviews
* Top Ten Favorites, 2016, From Pemberley to Milton
* Best Books I Read in 2016, The Book Dragon
* Favorite Books 2016, More Agreeably Engaged
MERCY'S EMBRACE novels:
* Austenprose.com's 2012 Debut Author Award
* Mercy's Embrace as a series, AustenesqueReviews.com's Top Ten (Minor Character)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
November 12, 2022
The blurb about this story set the stage. Mrs. Bennet has invited her cousin, Mrs. Thorpe, to visit. However the lady has decided to arrive a week before the invitation was intended AND she has brought her son and three daughters with her. Two daughters are sent to stay with Aunt Philips.
However the two staying at Longbourn, John and Isabella, not only misrepresent themselves being better situated than they are but also make plans to marry where they consider they might better themselves as in reality they are not so well off.
Soon Charlotte's engagement to Mr. Collins comes under attack and Elizabeth finds herself straining to keep John at arm's length.
Darcy and Bingley have returned to Netherfield as Bingley realizes Jane is the one for him. However Darcy considers Elizabeth a danger to his status and is determined to stay for only one week. He soon finds himself drawn to E. as much or more than ever.
There is an attempt at an "elopement" but it is not Lydia involved. Wickham is part of the story but has a slightly different role in this variation.
This was an interesting, shorter story (123 pages on my Kindle) which kept my attention. Set in the Christmas season we find mistletoe playing a small part.
However the two staying at Longbourn, John and Isabella, not only misrepresent themselves being better situated than they are but also make plans to marry where they consider they might better themselves as in reality they are not so well off.
Soon Charlotte's engagement to Mr. Collins comes under attack and Elizabeth finds herself straining to keep John at arm's length.
Darcy and Bingley have returned to Netherfield as Bingley realizes Jane is the one for him. However Darcy considers Elizabeth a danger to his status and is determined to stay for only one week. He soon finds himself drawn to E. as much or more than ever.
There is an attempt at an "elopement" but it is not Lydia involved. Wickham is part of the story but has a slightly different role in this variation.
This was an interesting, shorter story (123 pages on my Kindle) which kept my attention. Set in the Christmas season we find mistletoe playing a small part.
November 1, 2022
A Delightful Seasonal Romp
Mrs. Bennet’s machinations to marry off Elizabeth come back to bite her in the ‘cough’. A very different Darcy returns to Netherfield for a fortnight with Bingley. I loved this Darcy, who displayed his romantic nature—and a bit of a rogue he was too!
The dialogue was delightful and the banter entertaining in this well-written and engaging seasonal novella. Highly recommend.
Clean content.
Mrs. Bennet’s machinations to marry off Elizabeth come back to bite her in the ‘cough’. A very different Darcy returns to Netherfield for a fortnight with Bingley. I loved this Darcy, who displayed his romantic nature—and a bit of a rogue he was too!
The dialogue was delightful and the banter entertaining in this well-written and engaging seasonal novella. Highly recommend.
Clean content.
January 4, 2023
Loved this one. Charming and witty.
July 17, 2024
LOOOOVED this - much a fun read. The dialogue is EVERYTHING!
November 2, 2022
Darcy and Bingley are back in Meryton for Christmas, leaving Miss Bingley behind. There is an assembly where they find out the Bennets have visitors. The Thorpes are Mrs Bennet's long lost cousins. They have an ambitious glint in their eyes as Isabella has heard that Mr. Collins is to inherit Longbourn and John has been led to believe that the Bennet girls will inherit something worth his while. John Thorpe makes himself a nuisance and a dance with Darcy is a welcome respite for Elizabeth. This leads to a more open, more flirty interaction and a faster understanding between the two but the Thorpes cause more havoc before their engagement can be announced.
This was so funny! I enjoyed the dialogue a great deal Some might say that Darcy acts a bit out of character but I love this decisive, charming Darcy. Perhaps he just needed a bit of competition to sort his taciturn tendencies. The Thorpes are a delight in all their obnoxiousness, and they seem totally like their canon selves.
This was so funny! I enjoyed the dialogue a great deal Some might say that Darcy acts a bit out of character but I love this decisive, charming Darcy. Perhaps he just needed a bit of competition to sort his taciturn tendencies. The Thorpes are a delight in all their obnoxiousness, and they seem totally like their canon selves.
November 13, 2022
A sweet story
4.5*
A charming short story - highly recommended to fans of Mr Darcy and guaranteed to bring a smile to the reader’s face.
4.5*
A charming short story - highly recommended to fans of Mr Darcy and guaranteed to bring a smile to the reader’s face.
November 3, 2022
A fun, lighthearted novella.
November 30, 2024
Entertaining story with the addition of John and Isabella Thorpe, distant cousins of Mrs Bennet, who are as conniving and as obnoxious as ever. Darcy comes to the point (and to the rescue) much more quickly despite his initial hope of getting over Elizabeth. A fun, light read.
January 1, 2023
In this variation on Pride and Prejudice with a little holiday twist and enough mistletoe to make all the ladies a bit nervous, the emphasis is mostly on the intrusion of the Thorpes from Austen's Northanger Abbey.
The story begins when the Netherfield party have all left for London, and Mrs. Bennet is still upset over Bingley abandoning Jane, and Lizzy refusing Mr. Collins. She receives a letter from Mrs. Thorpe, who happens to be a distant cousin of Mrs. Bennet's. Mrs. Bennet decides to invite Mrs. Thorpe and her son John over Christmas, thinking him heir to a fortune and possibly a match for Lizzy. But nearly the entire Thorpe family arrive, a week earlier than intended, right before the Christmas assembly, and on the same evening Mr. Collins returns to settle his marriage plans with Charlotte Lucas. Two of the Thorpe daughters must be sent to stay with the Philipses because there's not enough room at Longbourn. But before they leave, one of them passes a cold on to Mr. Bennet, who takes to his bed, quite ill, so that Mrs. Bennet begins to fear for his life.
From the start John Thorpe begins flirting with Jane, and becomes disgruntled when Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley arrive at the assembly and Jane dances the second with Bingley instead of him. But Thorpe's attention is soon riveted on Elizabeth, requiring an early rescue by Darcy. Both the older Thorpe siblings become quite troublesome, as one might expect. But it makes for a rousing story.
Mr. Darcy seems somewhat out of character, suddenly whimsical and flirtatious. But this is a humorous romp, and enough fun that it doesn't matter if he isn't quite the Darcy we already know. It's a lighthearted, fun, quick read, which I found just right to end the year with.
The story begins when the Netherfield party have all left for London, and Mrs. Bennet is still upset over Bingley abandoning Jane, and Lizzy refusing Mr. Collins. She receives a letter from Mrs. Thorpe, who happens to be a distant cousin of Mrs. Bennet's. Mrs. Bennet decides to invite Mrs. Thorpe and her son John over Christmas, thinking him heir to a fortune and possibly a match for Lizzy. But nearly the entire Thorpe family arrive, a week earlier than intended, right before the Christmas assembly, and on the same evening Mr. Collins returns to settle his marriage plans with Charlotte Lucas. Two of the Thorpe daughters must be sent to stay with the Philipses because there's not enough room at Longbourn. But before they leave, one of them passes a cold on to Mr. Bennet, who takes to his bed, quite ill, so that Mrs. Bennet begins to fear for his life.
From the start John Thorpe begins flirting with Jane, and becomes disgruntled when Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley arrive at the assembly and Jane dances the second with Bingley instead of him. But Thorpe's attention is soon riveted on Elizabeth, requiring an early rescue by Darcy. Both the older Thorpe siblings become quite troublesome, as one might expect. But it makes for a rousing story.
Mr. Darcy seems somewhat out of character, suddenly whimsical and flirtatious. But this is a humorous romp, and enough fun that it doesn't matter if he isn't quite the Darcy we already know. It's a lighthearted, fun, quick read, which I found just right to end the year with.
November 10, 2022
Amusing
A wonderful, short confection, if you don't mind a humorous tale wherein Elizabeth and Darcy are out of character. The Thorpe family (from Northanger Abbey) are distant relations to Mrs Bennett, and she invites them to visit Longbourn for Christmas. Bingley and Darcy have left Hertfordshire after the Netherfield ball, and Elizabeth has refused Mr Collins ' offer of marriage, so Mrs Bennett feels John Thorpe would be a good match for one of her daughters, since she's under the mistaken impression that he has a lot of money. The Thorpes are also under some mistaken impressions regarding the fortunes of the Bennetts.
In London, Bingley has some backbone in this version, and tells Darcy that he intends to return to Jane Bennett immediately. Darcy, who was only looking for a little nudge in order to pursue Elizabeth, decides to go back to Hertfordshire with Bingley, and to woo Elizabeth. Darcy and Bingley arrive at Longbourn to find the Thorpes are there also, and they become involved in some intrigues.
The entire story is done with a tongue-in-cheek brand of humor. You must approach the story expecting some silliness and some over-the-top characters, particularly John Thorpe. Our dear Elizabeth starts out the tale with her usual dislike for Darcy, but Darcy is so swoon worthy that she doesn't stand a chance. The romance is lovely, and although Elizabeth's rapid capitulation to Darcy's charms is out of character, it's also great fun and so satisfying. I love Darcy in this book.
Laura Hile is always a pleasure to read. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend this book for a wonderful way to pass a little time.
A wonderful, short confection, if you don't mind a humorous tale wherein Elizabeth and Darcy are out of character. The Thorpe family (from Northanger Abbey) are distant relations to Mrs Bennett, and she invites them to visit Longbourn for Christmas. Bingley and Darcy have left Hertfordshire after the Netherfield ball, and Elizabeth has refused Mr Collins ' offer of marriage, so Mrs Bennett feels John Thorpe would be a good match for one of her daughters, since she's under the mistaken impression that he has a lot of money. The Thorpes are also under some mistaken impressions regarding the fortunes of the Bennetts.
In London, Bingley has some backbone in this version, and tells Darcy that he intends to return to Jane Bennett immediately. Darcy, who was only looking for a little nudge in order to pursue Elizabeth, decides to go back to Hertfordshire with Bingley, and to woo Elizabeth. Darcy and Bingley arrive at Longbourn to find the Thorpes are there also, and they become involved in some intrigues.
The entire story is done with a tongue-in-cheek brand of humor. You must approach the story expecting some silliness and some over-the-top characters, particularly John Thorpe. Our dear Elizabeth starts out the tale with her usual dislike for Darcy, but Darcy is so swoon worthy that she doesn't stand a chance. The romance is lovely, and although Elizabeth's rapid capitulation to Darcy's charms is out of character, it's also great fun and so satisfying. I love Darcy in this book.
Laura Hile is always a pleasure to read. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend this book for a wonderful way to pass a little time.
December 2, 2022
Everyone knows that Laura Hile's books are a fun romp with Jane Austen's characters and Step Lively is no exception. Always respectful and always funny, get your cup of Christmas cheer this and any year.
December 28, 2022
Excellent story, well written and edited. One plural possessive error which I hate.
Rather an abrupt ending. Good portrayal of John and Isabella Thorpe.
I would like to know the fates of some of the characters besides ODC.
Interesting Mr Collins story.
Rather an abrupt ending. Good portrayal of John and Isabella Thorpe.
I would like to know the fates of some of the characters besides ODC.
Interesting Mr Collins story.
January 1, 2023
Fun & Quick
This was a quick paced full of action and romance. I loved the mash up of Northanger Abbey and P&P. No evil, no angst. Bingley shows he actually has a backbone and comes back to Netherfield before Christmas with a smarter Darcy along for the ride.
This was a quick paced full of action and romance. I loved the mash up of Northanger Abbey and P&P. No evil, no angst. Bingley shows he actually has a backbone and comes back to Netherfield before Christmas with a smarter Darcy along for the ride.
November 23, 2022
Mrs Bennet’s match making during Christmas season causes issues when Bingley and Darcy come back to Netherfield. I enjoyed the dialogue but found many characters to be extreme.
November 13, 2022
Delightful winter fun and games
A brief romp through mild obstacles and a quick turn around for ODCand their feelings, light but a delicious read none the less
A brief romp through mild obstacles and a quick turn around for ODCand their feelings, light but a delicious read none the less
November 13, 2022
A bit over the top but a quick read.
October 1, 2025
A really light hearted holiday story. Though a bit OOC, it is so much fun to read that you won't mind much after you adjust your expectation. It did take a couple of chapters to get used to this flirty, roguish Darcy but then if he can charm Elizabeth who are we to desist?
July 6, 2024
Fun!
It was a great idea to invite over some relatives of Mrs. Bennet to stir things up, opening the door to a lot of changes and an adorable love story between our dear couple. A most diverting read!
It was a great idea to invite over some relatives of Mrs. Bennet to stir things up, opening the door to a lot of changes and an adorable love story between our dear couple. A most diverting read!
December 22, 2025
Shortly after Darcy and Bingley leave for town, Bingley is eager to return to Netherfield. After some persuasion Darcy is willing to accompany him - but only for one week. One week will surely not inflame his admiration for Elizabeth Bennet.
The Netherfield party has left and Elizabeth turned down the proposal of marriage from Mr Collins, therefore Mrs Bennet thinks of a scheme. She invites her distant relations, the Thorpes, and plans to match their son with her second daughter.
When the Thorpes arrive the residents of Longbourn are soon all vexed by them. And when Elizabeth needs a quick rescue it is Mr Darcy of all people who provides it. Soon the two have a better understanding of one another and love begins to blossom.
Will their blossoming love lead to an understanding? What about the vexing John Thorbe? And will Darcy and Elizabeth be able to prevent the mischief the Thorpes meant to cause?
The story was very well written by the author Laura Hile. I always enjoy her books very much and I like this variation particularly. It was one of the first Pride and Prejudice variations I have read. And each time I read it or listen to it I thoroughly enjoy it. I really like that it is such a funny, lighthearted story. And Darcy flirting with Elizabeth is one of the things I love most to see.
The story is a crossover story, the Thorpes from Northanger Abbey are here distant relations of Mrs Bennet.
I do love stories where Darcy is flirting with Elizabeth. Therefore this story is totally to my liking. Darcy is very much at ease with Elizabeth and, due to the unwanted advances of her cousin Thorpe he rescues her several times. I think this makes him a bit brave and daring. He flirts openly with Elizabeth and with this behaviour he is able to win Elizabeth’s heart. I like this more open, approachable and lovable Darcy very much.
Because of his changed manners and his flirting, Elizabeth is also more at ease with Darcy. She understands that she may have judged him wrongly and harshly in the past. She is quickly persuaded by Darcy's new demeanour, in particular by his kisses ;-) . In my opinion she was never indifferent to him, only her sympathy and attraction were clouded by his behaviour and she told herself that he was not worth her notice.
I really love how quickly their relationship progresses after Darcy’s first rescue and later his kisses with Elizabeth. It is a bit as if something holding them back has finally broken. But it’s not to their disadvantage because they are well suited to one another and they both see it that way, too. I really like that they, as a couple secretly in love, brave the mischief of Elizabeth’s Thorpe-relations together. They try to diminish the damage intended and do their best to not let the Thorpes achieve their goal.
As you may guess from the book descriptions the Thorpes are not respectable relations. They think the Longbourn daughters are wealthy relatives and therefore try to secure their wealth for themselves in different ways. Fortunately they were wrong about the wealth and are, in the end, not successful with their scheming and plotting. They are even cast out of the house by Mrs Bennet who invited them. I enjoyed that development so very much.
The story was narrated by the wonderful Benjamin Fife. I always enjoy his narrations very much and in my opinion he is the perfect choice of narrator for this audiobook. I especially liked his Darcy in his flirting rogue mode ;-)
If you like to know if Darcy rescuing Elizabeth from the attentions of her Thorpe cousin will lead to losing his own heart you should definitely listen to this excellent audiobook.
I highly recommend it.
The Netherfield party has left and Elizabeth turned down the proposal of marriage from Mr Collins, therefore Mrs Bennet thinks of a scheme. She invites her distant relations, the Thorpes, and plans to match their son with her second daughter.
When the Thorpes arrive the residents of Longbourn are soon all vexed by them. And when Elizabeth needs a quick rescue it is Mr Darcy of all people who provides it. Soon the two have a better understanding of one another and love begins to blossom.
Will their blossoming love lead to an understanding? What about the vexing John Thorbe? And will Darcy and Elizabeth be able to prevent the mischief the Thorpes meant to cause?
The story was very well written by the author Laura Hile. I always enjoy her books very much and I like this variation particularly. It was one of the first Pride and Prejudice variations I have read. And each time I read it or listen to it I thoroughly enjoy it. I really like that it is such a funny, lighthearted story. And Darcy flirting with Elizabeth is one of the things I love most to see.
The story is a crossover story, the Thorpes from Northanger Abbey are here distant relations of Mrs Bennet.
I do love stories where Darcy is flirting with Elizabeth. Therefore this story is totally to my liking. Darcy is very much at ease with Elizabeth and, due to the unwanted advances of her cousin Thorpe he rescues her several times. I think this makes him a bit brave and daring. He flirts openly with Elizabeth and with this behaviour he is able to win Elizabeth’s heart. I like this more open, approachable and lovable Darcy very much.
Because of his changed manners and his flirting, Elizabeth is also more at ease with Darcy. She understands that she may have judged him wrongly and harshly in the past. She is quickly persuaded by Darcy's new demeanour, in particular by his kisses ;-) . In my opinion she was never indifferent to him, only her sympathy and attraction were clouded by his behaviour and she told herself that he was not worth her notice.
I really love how quickly their relationship progresses after Darcy’s first rescue and later his kisses with Elizabeth. It is a bit as if something holding them back has finally broken. But it’s not to their disadvantage because they are well suited to one another and they both see it that way, too. I really like that they, as a couple secretly in love, brave the mischief of Elizabeth’s Thorpe-relations together. They try to diminish the damage intended and do their best to not let the Thorpes achieve their goal.
As you may guess from the book descriptions the Thorpes are not respectable relations. They think the Longbourn daughters are wealthy relatives and therefore try to secure their wealth for themselves in different ways. Fortunately they were wrong about the wealth and are, in the end, not successful with their scheming and plotting. They are even cast out of the house by Mrs Bennet who invited them. I enjoyed that development so very much.
The story was narrated by the wonderful Benjamin Fife. I always enjoy his narrations very much and in my opinion he is the perfect choice of narrator for this audiobook. I especially liked his Darcy in his flirting rogue mode ;-)
If you like to know if Darcy rescuing Elizabeth from the attentions of her Thorpe cousin will lead to losing his own heart you should definitely listen to this excellent audiobook.
I highly recommend it.
April 9, 2023
Fun, but did the author have to compromise her writing principles so much to write this story? Or was she just so naive about Regency facts? The built-in issues had such importance to the story line that they would seem a contrivance. In any case, I thought this author knew better. That, and the mistake of continuing to have the same poor editing as the last book lost a deserved star.
I write technical reviews with little subjective story discussion and no synopsis.
The concept of the book was good, though the story skipped detail so as to be confusing regarding the plot in spots. In general it was a good plot, complete enough for readers to be pleased with the ending.
The pacing was a bit too fast. The author skipped detail or had so much that it was sometimes hard to keep up.
Third person multiple point of view was used successfully, as was the concept of showing and not telling.
Language was not all that Regency, rather it was homey and simple English to suit the feel of the book. Attempts at using period language not only fell flat, but some were non-Regency, e.g., "hullo-allo" does not mean "hello" at all, but is a way of flagging someone down, and is from 1828 in any case. In addition, it is not "chomping at the bit" but "champing at the bit;" drab is a colour name not a description of dullness; "se'nnight should have had an apostrophe; and contractions that knocked the reader out of the period would usually have only been used by lower classed or silly people--I noted 27, but there were many more. The number of non-Regency, non-British words or phrases was low at six.
A missing period was noted, as well as two capitalizations where they made no sense. A change of speaker took place with no change of paragraph.
As for Regency correctness, ladies never asked a gentleman to dance. Never ever. The author used the word "supper" where the time of day clearly indicated dinner. Travel through the night was rare due to light conditions (they'd try to travel in a full moon, but even then, cuts through hills and treed conditions would make the road invisible) and the almost surety of being attacked by highwaymen. No one but a fool would attempt it, and that should have been noted. It was really, really hard to break an axle. It would require sabotage. So all of these items were included in this story as key items that turned the tables on the plot, yet they are not consistent with the truth. I don't know if the author chose to ignore them as a contrivance or didn't do her homework. Either way, shame on her. This is a lot of errors for one little book.
The scenery descriptions were excellent in places, showing a good overall writing skill.
I enjoyed the characters in this book, which were carefully shown as extensions of Jane Austen's originals, emphasizing the traits that were suitable to the premise, including those brought in from Northanger Abbey. A very tight job that deserves noting--this author is good at this.
The romance development was subtler than I'd like to see in a romance novel. Yes, there were swoon-worthy scenes, but much of the romance hinged around competition rather than development of awareness of passion.
The cover is spritely and attractive. I love the look in the lady's eye! The fonts, colours, and composition are all top-notch, and I believe that among other JAFF novels, this one stands out as a "buy me" look.
Laura Hiles specializes in witty, humorous romance in her Regency JAFF, and this book met that promise. The introduction of characters from another book was excellent and made for the plot's best twists. It's too bad she wrote this book too quickly, made it a bit too fast-paced, and paid short shrift to details. It would have made for a better novel if she honoured the facts more and paid better attention to the Regency. Nevertheless, I had a fun time reading this novel due to its powerful comic timing and twists and will read more of her books in hope of fewer contractions next time. You can do it!
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author and some might say this review is a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the reader and the author. I am a friend of Laura Hile.
I write technical reviews with little subjective story discussion and no synopsis.
The concept of the book was good, though the story skipped detail so as to be confusing regarding the plot in spots. In general it was a good plot, complete enough for readers to be pleased with the ending.
The pacing was a bit too fast. The author skipped detail or had so much that it was sometimes hard to keep up.
Third person multiple point of view was used successfully, as was the concept of showing and not telling.
Language was not all that Regency, rather it was homey and simple English to suit the feel of the book. Attempts at using period language not only fell flat, but some were non-Regency, e.g., "hullo-allo" does not mean "hello" at all, but is a way of flagging someone down, and is from 1828 in any case. In addition, it is not "chomping at the bit" but "champing at the bit;" drab is a colour name not a description of dullness; "se'nnight should have had an apostrophe; and contractions that knocked the reader out of the period would usually have only been used by lower classed or silly people--I noted 27, but there were many more. The number of non-Regency, non-British words or phrases was low at six.
A missing period was noted, as well as two capitalizations where they made no sense. A change of speaker took place with no change of paragraph.
As for Regency correctness, ladies never asked a gentleman to dance. Never ever. The author used the word "supper" where the time of day clearly indicated dinner. Travel through the night was rare due to light conditions (they'd try to travel in a full moon, but even then, cuts through hills and treed conditions would make the road invisible) and the almost surety of being attacked by highwaymen. No one but a fool would attempt it, and that should have been noted. It was really, really hard to break an axle. It would require sabotage. So all of these items were included in this story as key items that turned the tables on the plot, yet they are not consistent with the truth. I don't know if the author chose to ignore them as a contrivance or didn't do her homework. Either way, shame on her. This is a lot of errors for one little book.
The scenery descriptions were excellent in places, showing a good overall writing skill.
I enjoyed the characters in this book, which were carefully shown as extensions of Jane Austen's originals, emphasizing the traits that were suitable to the premise, including those brought in from Northanger Abbey. A very tight job that deserves noting--this author is good at this.
The romance development was subtler than I'd like to see in a romance novel. Yes, there were swoon-worthy scenes, but much of the romance hinged around competition rather than development of awareness of passion.
The cover is spritely and attractive. I love the look in the lady's eye! The fonts, colours, and composition are all top-notch, and I believe that among other JAFF novels, this one stands out as a "buy me" look.
Laura Hiles specializes in witty, humorous romance in her Regency JAFF, and this book met that promise. The introduction of characters from another book was excellent and made for the plot's best twists. It's too bad she wrote this book too quickly, made it a bit too fast-paced, and paid short shrift to details. It would have made for a better novel if she honoured the facts more and paid better attention to the Regency. Nevertheless, I had a fun time reading this novel due to its powerful comic timing and twists and will read more of her books in hope of fewer contractions next time. You can do it!
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author and some might say this review is a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the reader and the author. I am a friend of Laura Hile.
April 7, 2023
Lighthearted is the operative term in the description of this book. One cannot take this story seriously and one has to accept character behaviors departing from canon.
I'm never sure if I like when authors combine Austen characters from different books. This one implanted the awful Thorpes into P&P. And their behavior was spot on matching to their behavior in Northanger Abbey. Anytime someone asks me which of Austen's villains is the worst of villains, John Thorpe is always my answer. At least Willoughby and Wickham can be charming even if their actions are not always so. There is nothing charming about John Thorpe. He is crass and unlikable. He and his sister cause some real problems in this story. And I can't quite decide how I feel about the consequences. In one sense, the consequences are really good, but still leave me wondering what is to become of some of the secondary characters in the aftermath. But the book ends before we really find that out.
Darcy and Elizabeth are the characters that are most changed and in the twinkling of a moment it seems. But as written, the author would have us believe that it was there all along and that the twinkling opened eyes and feelings. If this were a full length novel, perhaps it could have happened slowly as it does in canon but novellas must always move quicker just because the story is shorter. I rather enjoyed a more lighthearted Darcy instead of being dark and brooding. It was fun to see him flirt and be a little romantic. He does tend to presume things still though but Lizzy just goes along with it so it isn't a big problem in their relationship.
Some canon P&P characters are mentioned but don't appear in the book and others are there but play minor roles.
I listened to the audio version (free on YouTube) and thought the narrator did well in varying the characters voices but there always seemed to be a tremor in the voice that I didn't enjoy as much. Overall it was good though.
I enjoyed the story for a fun romp but again, one can't take it too seriously.
Sex: no
Language: a little
Violence: In one spot I wish there had been, but no.
I'm never sure if I like when authors combine Austen characters from different books. This one implanted the awful Thorpes into P&P. And their behavior was spot on matching to their behavior in Northanger Abbey. Anytime someone asks me which of Austen's villains is the worst of villains, John Thorpe is always my answer. At least Willoughby and Wickham can be charming even if their actions are not always so. There is nothing charming about John Thorpe. He is crass and unlikable. He and his sister cause some real problems in this story. And I can't quite decide how I feel about the consequences. In one sense, the consequences are really good, but still leave me wondering what is to become of some of the secondary characters in the aftermath. But the book ends before we really find that out.
Darcy and Elizabeth are the characters that are most changed and in the twinkling of a moment it seems. But as written, the author would have us believe that it was there all along and that the twinkling opened eyes and feelings. If this were a full length novel, perhaps it could have happened slowly as it does in canon but novellas must always move quicker just because the story is shorter. I rather enjoyed a more lighthearted Darcy instead of being dark and brooding. It was fun to see him flirt and be a little romantic. He does tend to presume things still though but Lizzy just goes along with it so it isn't a big problem in their relationship.
Some canon P&P characters are mentioned but don't appear in the book and others are there but play minor roles.
I listened to the audio version (free on YouTube) and thought the narrator did well in varying the characters voices but there always seemed to be a tremor in the voice that I didn't enjoy as much. Overall it was good though.
I enjoyed the story for a fun romp but again, one can't take it too seriously.
Sex: no
Language: a little
Violence: In one spot I wish there had been, but no.
September 11, 2025
I loved it!
Warning: Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
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. Intrigue, secret love, and laughter are waiting for you in this lighthearted romantic romp.
Elizabeth’s mother has lied, and now the horrible Thorpes have come for Christmas.
No matter that the fib is an old one, Elizabeth Bennet’s cousins are certain that she is an heiress. Is not the Bennet’s prosperous estate evidence enough? There is a fortune to be had through marriage, and John Thorpe is hungry for it. Repelling the man’s advances is only one of Elizabeth’s troubles. John’s sister has a devious plan to become the next mistress of Longbourn, and then there is Jane’s future to consider, for nothing can be allowed to stand in the way of her happiness.
Fitzwilliam Darcy knows exactly why his friend is keen to have Christmas at Netherfield, and her name is Jane Bennet. He agrees to spend one week with Bingley, no more, for the lovely Elizabeth will be dangerously nearby, surely nothing can happen within a single week, but then Darcy discovers that Elizabeth is badly in need of rescue. What else can he do but lend a hand? Darcy needs to watch his step, however, for his foolish heart is all too eager to tumble headlong into love. 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: Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
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. Intrigue, secret love, and laughter are waiting for you in this lighthearted romantic romp.
Elizabeth’s mother has lied, and now the horrible Thorpes have come for Christmas.
No matter that the fib is an old one, Elizabeth Bennet’s cousins are certain that she is an heiress. Is not the Bennet’s prosperous estate evidence enough? There is a fortune to be had through marriage, and John Thorpe is hungry for it. Repelling the man’s advances is only one of Elizabeth’s troubles. John’s sister has a devious plan to become the next mistress of Longbourn, and then there is Jane’s future to consider, for nothing can be allowed to stand in the way of her happiness.
Fitzwilliam Darcy knows exactly why his friend is keen to have Christmas at Netherfield, and her name is Jane Bennet. He agrees to spend one week with Bingley, no more, for the lovely Elizabeth will be dangerously nearby, surely nothing can happen within a single week, but then Darcy discovers that Elizabeth is badly in need of rescue. What else can he do but lend a hand? Darcy needs to watch his step, however, for his foolish heart is all too eager to tumble headlong into love. 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.
March 2, 2023
Fun Novella 😊
This may be enjoyed more by those who have read the original, I'm assuming, just because it leaves out a big chunk of the beginning of Darcy and Elizabeth's story.
This one begins after Bingley and Darcy had already returned to London, breaking Jane's heart. But in this version they return soon after.
Unfortunately for them, Mrs. Bennett had already set in motion a visit from her distant counsins to find a husband for Elizabeth. To her dismay, the man's attentions were for Jane at first, until Elizabeth intervened for her sister, which only earned her his attentions for herself.
Propriety pushed aside, Darcy decided he would act and rescue Elizabeth from unwanted attention, surprising her and making her see him in a new light.
These cousins were even worse than Mr. Collins if you guys can believe that, but Mr. Darcy's pursuit and teasing of Elizabeth and stolen kisses were such fun to read!
Charlotte and Lydia were spared in this version too, making Mrs. Bennett a much happier woman haha
This may be enjoyed more by those who have read the original, I'm assuming, just because it leaves out a big chunk of the beginning of Darcy and Elizabeth's story.
This one begins after Bingley and Darcy had already returned to London, breaking Jane's heart. But in this version they return soon after.
Unfortunately for them, Mrs. Bennett had already set in motion a visit from her distant counsins to find a husband for Elizabeth. To her dismay, the man's attentions were for Jane at first, until Elizabeth intervened for her sister, which only earned her his attentions for herself.
Propriety pushed aside, Darcy decided he would act and rescue Elizabeth from unwanted attention, surprising her and making her see him in a new light.
These cousins were even worse than Mr. Collins if you guys can believe that, but Mr. Darcy's pursuit and teasing of Elizabeth and stolen kisses were such fun to read!
Charlotte and Lydia were spared in this version too, making Mrs. Bennett a much happier woman haha
January 20, 2023
There's scheming, and just when you think you've read it all, there's even worse scheming .
Everyone knows how much Mrs. Bennet worries about being thrown into the hedgerows when Mr. Bennet dies. No, he's not there yet, but his wife's falsehoods, could, cause him to lose his favorite daughter, Elizabeth. Just when I thought no one could be more manipulative than Caroline Bingley, we're introduced to some of Mrs. Bennet's relations, the Thropes. Mr. Darcy accompanied Mr. Bingley back to Longborn. Mr. Bingley has come to his senses regarding Miss Jane Bennet and how he feels about her, but what about Mr. Darcy? You'll enjoy this wonderful story as Mr. Darcy's true feelings are revealed.
Everyone knows how much Mrs. Bennet worries about being thrown into the hedgerows when Mr. Bennet dies. No, he's not there yet, but his wife's falsehoods, could, cause him to lose his favorite daughter, Elizabeth. Just when I thought no one could be more manipulative than Caroline Bingley, we're introduced to some of Mrs. Bennet's relations, the Thropes. Mr. Darcy accompanied Mr. Bingley back to Longborn. Mr. Bingley has come to his senses regarding Miss Jane Bennet and how he feels about her, but what about Mr. Darcy? You'll enjoy this wonderful story as Mr. Darcy's true feelings are revealed.
December 12, 2022
Fun but flawed
A fun, funny, fast-paced story with some problems.
Mild: some typos
Moderate: at one point, Elizabeth and Darcy discuss some things mentioned in his letter as though she had not yet read it (she had)
Significant: Darcy procured a special license to marry an underage lady (Elizabeth is either 19 or 20--all we know from Austen is that she is 20 a few months after this--and 21 was the age of majority at the time). This is simply impossible. The Archbishop wouldn’t have issued the license without, at the very least, her father/guardian's written consent.
A fun, funny, fast-paced story with some problems.
Mild: some typos
Moderate: at one point, Elizabeth and Darcy discuss some things mentioned in his letter as though she had not yet read it (she had)
Significant: Darcy procured a special license to marry an underage lady (Elizabeth is either 19 or 20--all we know from Austen is that she is 20 a few months after this--and 21 was the age of majority at the time). This is simply impossible. The Archbishop wouldn’t have issued the license without, at the very least, her father/guardian's written consent.
November 22, 2022
One of my favorite Darcy characters
Fun, light, and cute. It's not often that I come across a story showing Darcy's flirtatious side- the Darcy that in canon openly states he can admire their figures from where he sat. The Darcy in this story had no problem laying on the charm once he decided to go all in.
The Thorpe's storyline was a nice addition.
A side note: Did Bingley actually propose to Jane while Longbourn was in a uproar about Elizabeth's abduction? Not cool.
Fun, light, and cute. It's not often that I come across a story showing Darcy's flirtatious side- the Darcy that in canon openly states he can admire their figures from where he sat. The Darcy in this story had no problem laying on the charm once he decided to go all in.
The Thorpe's storyline was a nice addition.
A side note: Did Bingley actually propose to Jane while Longbourn was in a uproar about Elizabeth's abduction? Not cool.
January 31, 2023
This was a fun little romp. It was an interesting angle to weave the unsavory Thorpe family into the story and there were many humorous and light hearted scenes. This is definitely a satire and not meant to be taken seriously, so don't expect the characters to behave as themselves at all. I enjoyed the first half, but the second half, while still fun, went a little too far from fun to silly for my taste. I enjoyed it and glad I read it, but will be a one time read for me.
April 19, 2023
Absolutely ridiculous and so much fun
I enjoyed this story immensely... It will probably drive purist mad, but I enjoy a little out of character fun. The utter hubris of the characters of the Thorpes were abused masterfully. If you're looking for a bit of an escape, give this one a try. The irony of Mrs. Bennet's final assessment of Isabella Thorpe's character really gave me a chuckle.
I enjoyed this story immensely... It will probably drive purist mad, but I enjoy a little out of character fun. The utter hubris of the characters of the Thorpes were abused masterfully. If you're looking for a bit of an escape, give this one a try. The irony of Mrs. Bennet's final assessment of Isabella Thorpe's character really gave me a chuckle.
November 20, 2022
Gold diggers abound
Light hearted romp of a story. But I had trouble staying with it. That Darcy would kiss Elizabeth and begin to court her as an impulsive action did not work for me. And given Elizabeth being underage, how was Darcy to get a special license without an affidavit of permission?
Light hearted romp of a story. But I had trouble staying with it. That Darcy would kiss Elizabeth and begin to court her as an impulsive action did not work for me. And given Elizabeth being underage, how was Darcy to get a special license without an affidavit of permission?
November 27, 2022
Such a fun read!
This was a very enjoyable story. I loved the characters, even the villains, and particularly the wonderful banter between Elizabeth and Darcy.
I would like to implore the author to use British spellings and phrases though. English characters using Americanisms is really jarring.
This was a very enjoyable story. I loved the characters, even the villains, and particularly the wonderful banter between Elizabeth and Darcy.
I would like to implore the author to use British spellings and phrases though. English characters using Americanisms is really jarring.
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