What do you think?
Rate this book
Darcy and Elizabeth Love Affair #1
A Lasting Love Affair: Darcy & Elizabeth
“It’s the centuries-old love affair that keeps us coming back for more.”
Darcy was not looking to fall in love. He thought he had it all: wealth, privilege, and ardent passion for his sport.
Then he meets Miss Elizabeth Bennet, and soon thereafter he knows that she is the woman with whom he is destined to spend his life.
Having suffered a traumatic loss, Elizabeth knows the pain of heartache. She is determined to shield herself against forming strong attachments so she might never feel that way again. Then Mr. Darcy comes along, and he has a way of melting all her defenses.
It’s the story we love to love: Darcy and Elizabeth and another path to happily ever after.
“It’s the centuries-old love affair that keeps us coming back for more.”
Enjoy this story of Darcy and Elizabeth and another path to happily ever after.
Darcy was not looking to fall in love. He thought he had it all: wealth, privilege, and ardent passion for his sport.
Then he meets Miss Elizabeth Bennet, and soon thereafter he knows that she is the woman with whom he is destined to spend his life.
Having suffered a traumatic loss, Elizabeth knows the pain of heartache. She is determined to shield herself against forming strong attachments so she might never feel that way again. Then Mr. Darcy comes along, and he has a way of melting all her defenses.
It’s the story we love to love: Darcy and Elizabeth and another path to happily ever after.
“It’s the centuries-old love affair that keeps us coming back for more.”
Enjoy this story of Darcy and Elizabeth and another path to happily ever after.
170 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 12, 2013
55 people are currently reading
338 people want to read
About the author
P.O. Dixon
89 books170 followersP. O. Dixon has authored several Jane Austen "Pride and Prejudice" adaptations, all written with one overriding purpose in mind—falling in love with Darcy and Elizabeth. Sometimes provocative, but always entertaining, her stories have been read, commented on, and thoroughly enjoyed by thousands of readers worldwide.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
November 15, 2018
“Love involves a peculiar unfathomable combination of understanding and misunderstanding.” –Diane Arbus
Our Pride and Prejudice universe is somewhat altered from canon in this story. There are many changes and timelines that are skewed differently and ODC [our dear couple] meet under different circumstances. Elizabeth has been sent to live with her father’s elder sister Lady Vanessa Barrett, with whom he had been estranged. Her ladyship was a widow, without an heir, and had decided to mend the breach in the family by taking Elizabeth and training her in how to be a lady in a new circle of society. She was concerned that Mrs. Bennet, a tradesman’s daughter, wouldn’t know how to raise a proper gentlewoman. If Elizabeth stayed with her and did well during her training, consisting of a twelve-month complete, then Lady Barrett would adopt Elizabeth, making her the heir.
Elizabeth was trying very hard to adjust to a new environment and society. Every evening before going to bed, she wrote faithfully to her dear sister Jane. This was so touching especially when we learned the heartbreaking truth. When Elizabeth and Darcy were introduced, I was especially thrilled to see the famous dialogue switched about with different outcomes. There were so many misunderstandings and trials between ODC. At times, I wanted to shake Elizabeth.
“Jealousy can even be good for love. One partner may feel secretly flattered when the other is mildly jealous. And catching someone flirting with your beloved can spark the kind of lust and romance that reignites a relationship.” –Helen Fisher
Talk about your jealous triangles of love. This One loved That One, but That One longed for Another, and Another lusted for Someone Else, while Someone Else languished for This One. [Who’s on first?] Add to that conflab, a grasping Caroline Bingley and her wimp of a brother, and you have a complete mess of Who is in love with Whom. Jealously was flaunted back and forth among the many single characters. It became tedious and drawn out in unusual and confusing ways. The direction Elizabeth went, with her thinking and behavior, was crazy at best, stupid on one hand and utterly frustrating on the other. Again, I wanted to shake her and ask, “WTH [what-the-heck] is your problem?”
“People who have strong likes and dislikes find life very difficult; they are as rigid as if they had only one bone.” –Eknath Easwaran, The Mantram Handbook
Lady Catherine was extremely vexing as she demanded that Darcy fulfill his family duty and marry Anne. She threatened him with something that even angered her brother the Earl of Matlock. She was a witch. She traipsed all over the countryside looking for Elizabeth, in order to make her sentiments known. I especially felt for her poor coachman and horses. It was hilarious.
Of course, Wickham made his disgusting appearance… the scum-bag-rat-bastard. I want to know why they didn’t hang him for desertion? We never did address that. But then, that would throw a wrench in the works and the Bennet sisters didn’t need to suffer because Lydia was being stupid. And boy, was she a pip in this story. La, that child… help us all.
What I didn’t like: Gaps or something that would jolt me from the story. Something would be missing that I needed to transition from one place to another, or from scene to scene. Snippets would jar me and I would think, ‘What?’ This was throughout the story and it was perplexing as well as disconcerting. It was that note that was off in the symphony and flow of the story.
This was a clean, and yet enjoyable read. It was short and could be read rather quickly. It is followed by book 2, ‘Tis the Season for Matchmaking, and continues the story-line with even more outrageous behavior and angst.
I first read this in 2017 as part of the ‘First There is Love’ Collection. Not realizing it was the same story, I volunteered to read an unedited galley from the publisher via NetGalley. I even purchased a copy, due to it having a different cover. Dang, these cover changes, collections, box-sets and anthologies can be confusing.
Our Pride and Prejudice universe is somewhat altered from canon in this story. There are many changes and timelines that are skewed differently and ODC [our dear couple] meet under different circumstances. Elizabeth has been sent to live with her father’s elder sister Lady Vanessa Barrett, with whom he had been estranged. Her ladyship was a widow, without an heir, and had decided to mend the breach in the family by taking Elizabeth and training her in how to be a lady in a new circle of society. She was concerned that Mrs. Bennet, a tradesman’s daughter, wouldn’t know how to raise a proper gentlewoman. If Elizabeth stayed with her and did well during her training, consisting of a twelve-month complete, then Lady Barrett would adopt Elizabeth, making her the heir.
Elizabeth was trying very hard to adjust to a new environment and society. Every evening before going to bed, she wrote faithfully to her dear sister Jane. This was so touching especially when we learned the heartbreaking truth. When Elizabeth and Darcy were introduced, I was especially thrilled to see the famous dialogue switched about with different outcomes. There were so many misunderstandings and trials between ODC. At times, I wanted to shake Elizabeth.
“Jealousy can even be good for love. One partner may feel secretly flattered when the other is mildly jealous. And catching someone flirting with your beloved can spark the kind of lust and romance that reignites a relationship.” –Helen Fisher
Talk about your jealous triangles of love. This One loved That One, but That One longed for Another, and Another lusted for Someone Else, while Someone Else languished for This One. [Who’s on first?] Add to that conflab, a grasping Caroline Bingley and her wimp of a brother, and you have a complete mess of Who is in love with Whom. Jealously was flaunted back and forth among the many single characters. It became tedious and drawn out in unusual and confusing ways. The direction Elizabeth went, with her thinking and behavior, was crazy at best, stupid on one hand and utterly frustrating on the other. Again, I wanted to shake her and ask, “WTH [what-the-heck] is your problem?”
“People who have strong likes and dislikes find life very difficult; they are as rigid as if they had only one bone.” –Eknath Easwaran, The Mantram Handbook
Lady Catherine was extremely vexing as she demanded that Darcy fulfill his family duty and marry Anne. She threatened him with something that even angered her brother the Earl of Matlock. She was a witch. She traipsed all over the countryside looking for Elizabeth, in order to make her sentiments known. I especially felt for her poor coachman and horses. It was hilarious.
Of course, Wickham made his disgusting appearance… the scum-bag-rat-bastard. I want to know why they didn’t hang him for desertion? We never did address that. But then, that would throw a wrench in the works and the Bennet sisters didn’t need to suffer because Lydia was being stupid. And boy, was she a pip in this story. La, that child… help us all.
What I didn’t like: Gaps or something that would jolt me from the story. Something would be missing that I needed to transition from one place to another, or from scene to scene. Snippets would jar me and I would think, ‘What?’ This was throughout the story and it was perplexing as well as disconcerting. It was that note that was off in the symphony and flow of the story.
This was a clean, and yet enjoyable read. It was short and could be read rather quickly. It is followed by book 2, ‘Tis the Season for Matchmaking, and continues the story-line with even more outrageous behavior and angst.
I first read this in 2017 as part of the ‘First There is Love’ Collection. Not realizing it was the same story, I volunteered to read an unedited galley from the publisher via NetGalley. I even purchased a copy, due to it having a different cover. Dang, these cover changes, collections, box-sets and anthologies can be confusing.
October 18, 2018
Although the writing itself is of Ms. Dixon's usual high quality, the plot leaves some holes and some lack of logic that made it less than satisfying.
Elizabeth agrees to live with her aunt, Lady Vanessa Barrett, with whom her father has been estranged for decades due to his unacceptable marriage to Mrs. Bennet, a mere solicitor's daughter. The siblings have a tentative truce and, based on her brother's description, Lady Vanessa (having no children of her own) is considering making Elizabeth her heir.
As the story begins, Lady Vanessa is clearly cut from the same opinionated, condescending, elitist cloth as Lady Catherine. Elizabeth does the best she can but isn't certain whether the inheritance will be worth the experience of living with the imperious lady. This conflict is never developed. By the book's end, without any interaction shown between the two to justify it, the relationship between Lady V and Elizabeth pops up very differently. In fact, Lady V. barely appears throughout the middle section of the book except as mistress of the estate at which Elizabeth resides while our heroine is off socializing with others.
The relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy is equally frustrating. For one thing, Elizabeth is way too prickly at first. We know that Darcy historically is attracted to her because she doesn't pander to him, but she's beyond "impertinent" with him--she seems downright rude--and without just provocation.
Their major misunderstanding when Darcy heads to Rosings is also ridiculous, this time on his side. Certainly he must know that many gentlemen take advantage of innocent gentlewomen. Considering that he intends to marry Elizabeth, there's no good reason for him to keep significant information from her as he's about to leave and then get indignant when she becomes upset. It's a dumb argument that seems manufactured just to separate the two on bad terms.
There are aspects of the story that I enjoyed. It is kind of interesting to see Darcy as a participant in a horse race and a gentleman actively involved in buying, selling and breeding horses. Initially, Elizabeth is reluctant to give her heart to anyone because she is still reeling from losing someone she dearly loved, which is a different perspective than usual. Darcy gets some competition for her favor, with Lady V. strongly encouraging a match between her niece and Lord Holland, the nephew of her late husband. Lucy Lancaster is a bubbly young lady who is said to become a good friend to Elizabeth, even though their relationship is not developed on page. I would've liked to see more done with that. I do like the face-off between Lady V. and Lady Catherine, too, despite Lady V's attitude being a bit out of the blue.
Darcy and Elizabeth do get ample page time together at various dinner parties, picnics, and balls. Their attraction is palpable, they have some bantering conversations, they have some romantic interaction. The content remains clean throughout.
Overall, it's a book that has some good elements, but there's a lot more that seems undeveloped. Not one of this author's better stories.
Elizabeth agrees to live with her aunt, Lady Vanessa Barrett, with whom her father has been estranged for decades due to his unacceptable marriage to Mrs. Bennet, a mere solicitor's daughter. The siblings have a tentative truce and, based on her brother's description, Lady Vanessa (having no children of her own) is considering making Elizabeth her heir.
As the story begins, Lady Vanessa is clearly cut from the same opinionated, condescending, elitist cloth as Lady Catherine. Elizabeth does the best she can but isn't certain whether the inheritance will be worth the experience of living with the imperious lady. This conflict is never developed. By the book's end, without any interaction shown between the two to justify it, the relationship between Lady V and Elizabeth pops up very differently. In fact, Lady V. barely appears throughout the middle section of the book except as mistress of the estate at which Elizabeth resides while our heroine is off socializing with others.
The relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy is equally frustrating. For one thing, Elizabeth is way too prickly at first. We know that Darcy historically is attracted to her because she doesn't pander to him, but she's beyond "impertinent" with him--she seems downright rude--and without just provocation.
Their major misunderstanding when Darcy heads to Rosings is also ridiculous, this time on his side. Certainly he must know that many gentlemen take advantage of innocent gentlewomen. Considering that he intends to marry Elizabeth, there's no good reason for him to keep significant information from her as he's about to leave and then get indignant when she becomes upset. It's a dumb argument that seems manufactured just to separate the two on bad terms.
There are aspects of the story that I enjoyed. It is kind of interesting to see Darcy as a participant in a horse race and a gentleman actively involved in buying, selling and breeding horses. Initially, Elizabeth is reluctant to give her heart to anyone because she is still reeling from losing someone she dearly loved, which is a different perspective than usual. Darcy gets some competition for her favor, with Lady V. strongly encouraging a match between her niece and Lord Holland, the nephew of her late husband. Lucy Lancaster is a bubbly young lady who is said to become a good friend to Elizabeth, even though their relationship is not developed on page. I would've liked to see more done with that. I do like the face-off between Lady V. and Lady Catherine, too, despite Lady V's attitude being a bit out of the blue.
Darcy and Elizabeth do get ample page time together at various dinner parties, picnics, and balls. Their attraction is palpable, they have some bantering conversations, they have some romantic interaction. The content remains clean throughout.
Overall, it's a book that has some good elements, but there's a lot more that seems undeveloped. Not one of this author's better stories.
December 19, 2017
3.5 stars
I read this three times, now. This novella had starts and stops, in my opinion. I, like other reviewers, wished for more development in places. Much of the prose was very enjoyable; it did keep my attention. In this story, at least, Darcy falls in love and never wavers about what he wants. But some events seemed confusing. The whole scene when Darcy is to leave to go to Kent...with Darcy and Lizzie and then with Lord Andrew didn't seem clear. Why would they, each, not know that there was more to the story and ask questions/explain himself: Why was he going to Kent? Who does he know there? What's this about a previous engagement? Lizzie was impulsive in just seeing this as a loss and giving up, Lord Andrew was two-faced and what kind of friend is he? And Darcy did not explain himself very well. I am sure that is probably what the author wanted but it seemed incongruous. Maybe there was not enough thought processes laid out for us, the readers. Jane dying off was such a shock at the beginning and I didn't hear of anyone's reactions to that other than Elizabeth's. After all, Mrs. Bennett stated that no one dies of a trifling cold in the original. I would have appreciated some comments about Bingley's reactions. In P&P, when Jane was to visit his sisters and have dinner he seemed already smitten and yet I don't hear anything further from him. I wanted to read about Lord Andrew, Lucy and Bingley going on in life and finding love or, at least, the former two marrying each other. And Elizabeth inherits from her aunt as well as marries this guy with all the money: how did she put some of that money to good use? I would have given this 3 and a 1/2 stars if allowed.
I read this three times, now. This novella had starts and stops, in my opinion. I, like other reviewers, wished for more development in places. Much of the prose was very enjoyable; it did keep my attention. In this story, at least, Darcy falls in love and never wavers about what he wants. But some events seemed confusing. The whole scene when Darcy is to leave to go to Kent...with Darcy and Lizzie and then with Lord Andrew didn't seem clear. Why would they, each, not know that there was more to the story and ask questions/explain himself: Why was he going to Kent? Who does he know there? What's this about a previous engagement? Lizzie was impulsive in just seeing this as a loss and giving up, Lord Andrew was two-faced and what kind of friend is he? And Darcy did not explain himself very well. I am sure that is probably what the author wanted but it seemed incongruous. Maybe there was not enough thought processes laid out for us, the readers. Jane dying off was such a shock at the beginning and I didn't hear of anyone's reactions to that other than Elizabeth's. After all, Mrs. Bennett stated that no one dies of a trifling cold in the original. I would have appreciated some comments about Bingley's reactions. In P&P, when Jane was to visit his sisters and have dinner he seemed already smitten and yet I don't hear anything further from him. I wanted to read about Lord Andrew, Lucy and Bingley going on in life and finding love or, at least, the former two marrying each other. And Elizabeth inherits from her aunt as well as marries this guy with all the money: how did she put some of that money to good use? I would have given this 3 and a 1/2 stars if allowed.
March 2, 2014
The premise of this story was... brave! The idea of having her most beloved sister die (sorry if you consider that a spoiler, but you find it out pretty quickly when you start reading anyway!) was a very interesting path to go down as well as being very shocking and surprising, and original for I haven’t read one before where Jane dies. The way in which she dies is actually very clever, however I will not give that away!
Darcy and Lizzy were as cute as ever in this tale. Unlike what we are used to, they become good friends very quickly, and they are really sweet. Lizzy finds in him someone to confide as Darcy is much more agreeable. It was a nice change to have her already considering Darcy a friend rather than being so prejudiced against him. As the friendship grows to something more, there are some very sweet and romantic moments.
Lizzy is quite altered in this variation, understandably, due to her loss. To help her deal with her heartache she writes letters to her deceased sister, which is a very sensible idea and one I can relate to, for writing down your feelings often makes pain easier. As well as writing to her sister, Darcy comes along and seems to be able to help her through her sadness and break the wall she has built around her heart, trying to protect herself from further heartache. But do not fear, for although Lizzy is suffering the pain of loss, it hasn't quite dampened all her spirit and there are still some wonderfully witty comments and conversations!
An interesting side we get to see to Darcy in this variation was jealousy! The addition of the dashing Lord Holland made for some competition, which was fun to read. Even though he was jealous, it was nice to see Darcy so sure of his affection and willing to go against his family straight away.
A few fun additional characters were, as already mentioned, Lord Hollond and also the lovely Miss Lancaster, who become a good friend to Lizzy. The conversations between the four of them were fun, even if Holland isn't at all pleased with the attentions Darcy is showing Lizzy!
Another character was Lizzy's estranged Aunt, Lady Vanessa. She reminded me a little of Lady Catherine, but luckily she is much nicer than Lady Catherine! As we know, it was Aunt Gardiner who was the means of uniting Darcy and Lizzy, but it was fun to have a different aunt responsible for the being the means of uniting Darcy and Lizzy.
The writing in the story was very good. While the story was very fast moving, it flowed well and the language was very appropriate to the time, very much in the style of Jane Austen. This was a fun, quick, easy read, not without its angst, but also with touches of humour and romance.
Darcy and Lizzy were as cute as ever in this tale. Unlike what we are used to, they become good friends very quickly, and they are really sweet. Lizzy finds in him someone to confide as Darcy is much more agreeable. It was a nice change to have her already considering Darcy a friend rather than being so prejudiced against him. As the friendship grows to something more, there are some very sweet and romantic moments.
Lizzy is quite altered in this variation, understandably, due to her loss. To help her deal with her heartache she writes letters to her deceased sister, which is a very sensible idea and one I can relate to, for writing down your feelings often makes pain easier. As well as writing to her sister, Darcy comes along and seems to be able to help her through her sadness and break the wall she has built around her heart, trying to protect herself from further heartache. But do not fear, for although Lizzy is suffering the pain of loss, it hasn't quite dampened all her spirit and there are still some wonderfully witty comments and conversations!
An interesting side we get to see to Darcy in this variation was jealousy! The addition of the dashing Lord Holland made for some competition, which was fun to read. Even though he was jealous, it was nice to see Darcy so sure of his affection and willing to go against his family straight away.
A few fun additional characters were, as already mentioned, Lord Hollond and also the lovely Miss Lancaster, who become a good friend to Lizzy. The conversations between the four of them were fun, even if Holland isn't at all pleased with the attentions Darcy is showing Lizzy!
Another character was Lizzy's estranged Aunt, Lady Vanessa. She reminded me a little of Lady Catherine, but luckily she is much nicer than Lady Catherine! As we know, it was Aunt Gardiner who was the means of uniting Darcy and Lizzy, but it was fun to have a different aunt responsible for the being the means of uniting Darcy and Lizzy.
The writing in the story was very good. While the story was very fast moving, it flowed well and the language was very appropriate to the time, very much in the style of Jane Austen. This was a fun, quick, easy read, not without its angst, but also with touches of humour and romance.
Read
November 3, 2017P.O. Dixon’s short novel, A Lasting Love Affair: Darcy & Elizabeth, is a unique retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice with new characters and a change in the scenery. Elizabeth Bennet literally bumps into Mr. Darcy on the street in Bosley, where she is now living with her father’s sister, Lady Vanessa Barrett, who has been estranged from her brother since he married Fanny Gardiner and is now in need of an heir. Mr. Darcy, meanwhile, is staying with his friend, Lord Holland, who happens to be Lady Vanessa’s nephew.
Elizabeth isn’t looking to form an attachment with anyone, having suffered a significant loss, and is content merely pouring her heart out into letters she will never mail. Despite the expectations of his family, Mr. Darcy finds himself captivated by her, but he has to overcome Elizabeth’s fear of giving her heart away and the expectations of a match between Elizabeth and Lord Holland. From the gossipy Caroline Bingley to the greedy Mr. Wickham to Lady Catherine on a mission, there are plenty of obstacles in the way of their happiness.
A Lasting Love Affair was an enjoyable retelling of Austen’s novel, mostly because Dixon takes the characters away from Meryton and Netherfield and puts them in an entirely new setting. I was heartbroken for Elizabeth, but her fear of losing someone else close to her was a different challenge for Mr. Darcy to tackle. Dixon portrays Elizabeth as someone just beginning to emerge from a deep grief, and the change of scenery means she and Mr. Darcy get to know each other without the obnoxious Mrs. Bennet and the other Bennet sisters lurking in the background.
Although I wish I felt a stronger connection to Dixon’s Elizabeth and Darcy, I couldn’t help but like this novel. Even though I knew they would achieve their happily ever after, changing the main stage and adding a few new players meant that I wasn’t sure exactly how they would get there. A Lasting Love Affair is a light and quick escapist read that kept me company at a time when I needed a little Darcy pick-me-up, and I’m looking forward to reading more by this author.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
Elizabeth isn’t looking to form an attachment with anyone, having suffered a significant loss, and is content merely pouring her heart out into letters she will never mail. Despite the expectations of his family, Mr. Darcy finds himself captivated by her, but he has to overcome Elizabeth’s fear of giving her heart away and the expectations of a match between Elizabeth and Lord Holland. From the gossipy Caroline Bingley to the greedy Mr. Wickham to Lady Catherine on a mission, there are plenty of obstacles in the way of their happiness.
A Lasting Love Affair was an enjoyable retelling of Austen’s novel, mostly because Dixon takes the characters away from Meryton and Netherfield and puts them in an entirely new setting. I was heartbroken for Elizabeth, but her fear of losing someone else close to her was a different challenge for Mr. Darcy to tackle. Dixon portrays Elizabeth as someone just beginning to emerge from a deep grief, and the change of scenery means she and Mr. Darcy get to know each other without the obnoxious Mrs. Bennet and the other Bennet sisters lurking in the background.
Although I wish I felt a stronger connection to Dixon’s Elizabeth and Darcy, I couldn’t help but like this novel. Even though I knew they would achieve their happily ever after, changing the main stage and adding a few new players meant that I wasn’t sure exactly how they would get there. A Lasting Love Affair is a light and quick escapist read that kept me company at a time when I needed a little Darcy pick-me-up, and I’m looking forward to reading more by this author.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
January 12, 2018
Elizabeth is the chosen Bennet daughter of Mr Bennet sister, Lady Vanessa to be her sole heir.
Moving to her estate and learning to be a lady, Elizabeth soon encounters the haughty Mr Darcy. Tender regard develops fast but when Darcy leaves without being forthcoming with the reasons, their misunderstandings escalate.
Heartily recommend this book!
Moving to her estate and learning to be a lady, Elizabeth soon encounters the haughty Mr Darcy. Tender regard develops fast but when Darcy leaves without being forthcoming with the reasons, their misunderstandings escalate.
Heartily recommend this book!
October 27, 2021
I have found that listening to an audiobook, with a well done narration, really amps up a story.
The narrator here does a good job.
Elizabeth is staying with her wealthy aunt, who having no children is considering E as with her inheritor. (Her aunt bares a close resemblance to Lady C)
Darcy meets E at the horse races (a big theme in this story). He is staying at a nearby estate, who are close to F's aunt. D is taken with E very quickly!
E holds her heart closed off and after an accident happens to a friend, her trauma is brought back to her and we learn that Jane died 2 years ago!! While reliving her loss, Darcy's softer side is brought out to help her.
The Bingleys arrive to visit, E has met them in Hertfordshire a yr ago, after Jane's passing. She always thought Jane and Bingley would have been perfect together. At a social event E, feeling warmly enough toward D, saves him from Miss B. Oooh and there we get to see a flirty, rakish side to D! E is still too scared to make herself vulnerable again to D's disappointment.
Intrigue continues as D pays attention to E, ruh-roh, Lord Holland is not happy with D’s behavior, which was far too forward. Lord H is interested in E, though she keeps trying to divert his attention to another young lady.
When Miss B strikes, letting D know about the real situation of the Bennets, D is shaken. Aaaand there it is, the proud, haughty D who can’t be relied on. However, this is of short duration and he remains steadfast. Until Col. F shows up and beckons D to Kent.
E in her vulnerability picks a fight with D to shove him away. D tries to make amends, but she intends to keep him at arm’s length.
Lord H makes overtures towards E and informs her of the well-known engagement to Anne. E decides she needs to return to longbourn.
Scene change to Kent, D refuses to be coerced in to marrying Anne, especially over a horse. So we see he still holds out hope for E. D goes thru family drama when he stands up for what he wants to the family, he goes back for E, but she has left.
Arrives in Hertfordshire, E slowly allows herself to be vulnerable and trust again. D is steadfast in his commitment to E. (LOVE)
Lydia happens (Eye roll), D secretly saves the family.
E escapes to London and the Gardiners, thinking she is ruined and D will want nothing to do with her. Lydia spills the beans; E wants a last chance at winning D back. She loves him! Beautiful scene at the ball, resolves all for ODC.
Lady C chases her all over the country (gets sick. Lol)
We don't find out what happens to Bingley, Miss B, Lord H or the young lady who loves him. Or what the aunt decides to do with her fortune.
I enjoyed the audio performance - 4*
Story - 3.5* a few holes in the plot...
The narrator here does a good job.
Elizabeth is staying with her wealthy aunt, who having no children is considering E as with her inheritor. (Her aunt bares a close resemblance to Lady C)
Darcy meets E at the horse races (a big theme in this story). He is staying at a nearby estate, who are close to F's aunt. D is taken with E very quickly!
E holds her heart closed off and after an accident happens to a friend, her trauma is brought back to her and we learn that Jane died 2 years ago!! While reliving her loss, Darcy's softer side is brought out to help her.
The Bingleys arrive to visit, E has met them in Hertfordshire a yr ago, after Jane's passing. She always thought Jane and Bingley would have been perfect together. At a social event E, feeling warmly enough toward D, saves him from Miss B. Oooh and there we get to see a flirty, rakish side to D! E is still too scared to make herself vulnerable again to D's disappointment.
Intrigue continues as D pays attention to E, ruh-roh, Lord Holland is not happy with D’s behavior, which was far too forward. Lord H is interested in E, though she keeps trying to divert his attention to another young lady.
When Miss B strikes, letting D know about the real situation of the Bennets, D is shaken. Aaaand there it is, the proud, haughty D who can’t be relied on. However, this is of short duration and he remains steadfast. Until Col. F shows up and beckons D to Kent.
E in her vulnerability picks a fight with D to shove him away. D tries to make amends, but she intends to keep him at arm’s length.
Lord H makes overtures towards E and informs her of the well-known engagement to Anne. E decides she needs to return to longbourn.
Scene change to Kent, D refuses to be coerced in to marrying Anne, especially over a horse. So we see he still holds out hope for E. D goes thru family drama when he stands up for what he wants to the family, he goes back for E, but she has left.
Arrives in Hertfordshire, E slowly allows herself to be vulnerable and trust again. D is steadfast in his commitment to E. (LOVE)
Lydia happens (Eye roll), D secretly saves the family.
E escapes to London and the Gardiners, thinking she is ruined and D will want nothing to do with her. Lydia spills the beans; E wants a last chance at winning D back. She loves him! Beautiful scene at the ball, resolves all for ODC.
Lady C chases her all over the country (gets sick. Lol)
We don't find out what happens to Bingley, Miss B, Lord H or the young lady who loves him. Or what the aunt decides to do with her fortune.
I enjoyed the audio performance - 4*
Story - 3.5* a few holes in the plot...
December 30, 2013
Interesting story in that Mr Bennet has a sister who married well, widower and is looking to leave her fortune to one of her nieces. The selected niece is Elizabeth. The story has a tragic side which I had a hard time accepting but it makes Elizabeth cautious about how she gives her heart. When she meets Darcy away from her embarrassing family he soon falls heads over heels for her but Elizabeth fears he prefers his horses! Quite silly I know hence my rating Lol Elizabeths argument with Darcy seemed like an afraid little girl.. Not something I could visualize Elizabeth being. Darcy has competition in this novel which I enjoyed although it was too quickly resolved. Very quick, light read.
December 31, 2013
"... I must forever imagine myself comparing every man I meet to Mr. Darcy and finding the otherwise worthy gentleman wanting."
This statement is my thoughts exactly. Jane Austen gave us Mr. Darcy and Ms. Dixon has made us fall more in love with Mr. Darcy with every story she writes. In "A Lasting Love Affair" she brings us a Darcy we all know but instead of his fight within himself, he does not fight his attraction to Elizabeth.
Elizabeth on the other hand, fights her attraction to Darcy due to a broken heart after the loss of her beloved sister, Jane. She is afraid to trust and love again thinking that having to go through a loss like that a gain would hurt twice as much. Darcy vows to win her heart and trust because she is his everything.
This story also see a long estranged sister of Mr. Bennet who wants to heal the breach by making Elizabeth her sole heir. Lady Vanessa brings Elizabeth to live with her and brings Elizabeth's status higher then before. During her stay with Lady Vanessa is how Elizabeth gets introduced to Darcy and Lord Holland, Darcy's friend and whom he is staying with. While Darcy tries to woe Elizabeth, he has some competion in Lord Holland. Although there are some hiccups along the way, who could be in doubt that Darcy and Elizabeth would end up together.
This was a delight story that captured my heart and soul. I have come to enjoy all Ms. Dixon's stories, this is by far my favorite. I, for one, cannot wait to see what journey she will take us on next!
This statement is my thoughts exactly. Jane Austen gave us Mr. Darcy and Ms. Dixon has made us fall more in love with Mr. Darcy with every story she writes. In "A Lasting Love Affair" she brings us a Darcy we all know but instead of his fight within himself, he does not fight his attraction to Elizabeth.
Elizabeth on the other hand, fights her attraction to Darcy due to a broken heart after the loss of her beloved sister, Jane. She is afraid to trust and love again thinking that having to go through a loss like that a gain would hurt twice as much. Darcy vows to win her heart and trust because she is his everything.
This story also see a long estranged sister of Mr. Bennet who wants to heal the breach by making Elizabeth her sole heir. Lady Vanessa brings Elizabeth to live with her and brings Elizabeth's status higher then before. During her stay with Lady Vanessa is how Elizabeth gets introduced to Darcy and Lord Holland, Darcy's friend and whom he is staying with. While Darcy tries to woe Elizabeth, he has some competion in Lord Holland. Although there are some hiccups along the way, who could be in doubt that Darcy and Elizabeth would end up together.
This was a delight story that captured my heart and soul. I have come to enjoy all Ms. Dixon's stories, this is by far my favorite. I, for one, cannot wait to see what journey she will take us on next!
February 12, 2017
I was surprised at how much I liked this book. E was a bit cranky but she had a good reason. Poor thing! I liked it.
February 11, 2023
format: Audiobook
rating: 1
I mean, usually I like these things well enough, they decent things to listen to in the background usually, but this was just very frustrating and unsatisfying.
Yes it's different from the original, but not really in an interesting way.
Elizabeth doesn't come of as clever, but kind of dull and naive, Darcy isn't charming.
The writing itself is fine, but I liked neither the story or any of the characters, so this was not a success for me.
rating: 1
I mean, usually I like these things well enough, they decent things to listen to in the background usually, but this was just very frustrating and unsatisfying.
Yes it's different from the original, but not really in an interesting way.
Elizabeth doesn't come of as clever, but kind of dull and naive, Darcy isn't charming.
The writing itself is fine, but I liked neither the story or any of the characters, so this was not a success for me.
May 12, 2014
***Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of the book for my honest review.***
A Lasting Love Affair is a Pride and Prejudice variation and begins with Elizabeth going to live with her wealthy aunt, Lady Vanessa Barrett, Mr. Bennet’s estranged sister. In going there, the family hopes to heal the rift between the families. Lady Vanessa is a widow with no heir to leave her fortune to, and if all goes well Elizabeth will become Lady Vanessa’s heir apparent. By doing this, Elizabeth will also be saving her sisters and mother should anything happen to Mr. Bennet.
Lady Vanessa reminds me of Lady Catherine, dictatorial and rude. She has it in mind that Elizabeth should marry her nephew Lord Andrew, the future Earl of Bosley, thus uniting the two estates. But she did have her good moments like when she had a little “tete-a-tete” with Caroline Bingley! I enjoyed that!
It is in the village near Barrington Hill (Lady Vanessa's estate), that Elizabeth first meets Darcy. They get off to a bad start as they literally bump into each other, and both are rude to one another. But soon they are in each other’s company often as he is staying with Lord Andrew, and the two families spend a lot of time together.
I was not happy with this Elizabeth. I found her to be a bit more curt than usual. There wasn’t the usual playfulness in the banter between Darcy and Elizabeth. But I do have to admit that Elizabeth has a good reason to have lost some of her sparkle. She has lost someone very special to her and is afraid to ever get that close to anyone else ever again. I was sad for her lost too.
Ms. Dixon is very good at using bits of the dialogue from the original and sprinkling it throughout her books, mixing them up, giving them to other people and situations. She does this in this book, as well. For instance, it’s Elizabeth who calls Darcy "tolerable" when asked to describe him.
A Lasting Love Affair is good, but not my favorite of Dixon's works. Although, I would always recommend any of her stories, especially if you are a fan of Pride and Prejudice variations! One of my favorites of hers is Bewitched Body and Soul.
***Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of the book for my honest review.***
A Lasting Love Affair is a Pride and Prejudice variation and begins with Elizabeth going to live with her wealthy aunt, Lady Vanessa Barrett, Mr. Bennet’s estranged sister. In going there, the family hopes to heal the rift between the families. Lady Vanessa is a widow with no heir to leave her fortune to, and if all goes well Elizabeth will become Lady Vanessa’s heir apparent. By doing this, Elizabeth will also be saving her sisters and mother should anything happen to Mr. Bennet.
Lady Vanessa reminds me of Lady Catherine, dictatorial and rude. She has it in mind that Elizabeth should marry her nephew Lord Andrew, the future Earl of Bosley, thus uniting the two estates. But she did have her good moments like when she had a little “tete-a-tete” with Caroline Bingley! I enjoyed that!
It is in the village near Barrington Hill (Lady Vanessa's estate), that Elizabeth first meets Darcy. They get off to a bad start as they literally bump into each other, and both are rude to one another. But soon they are in each other’s company often as he is staying with Lord Andrew, and the two families spend a lot of time together.
I was not happy with this Elizabeth. I found her to be a bit more curt than usual. There wasn’t the usual playfulness in the banter between Darcy and Elizabeth. But I do have to admit that Elizabeth has a good reason to have lost some of her sparkle. She has lost someone very special to her and is afraid to ever get that close to anyone else ever again. I was sad for her lost too.
Ms. Dixon is very good at using bits of the dialogue from the original and sprinkling it throughout her books, mixing them up, giving them to other people and situations. She does this in this book, as well. For instance, it’s Elizabeth who calls Darcy "tolerable" when asked to describe him.
A Lasting Love Affair is good, but not my favorite of Dixon's works. Although, I would always recommend any of her stories, especially if you are a fan of Pride and Prejudice variations! One of my favorites of hers is Bewitched Body and Soul.
***Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of the book for my honest review.***
October 9, 2015
★ ½
I haven't read many of this author's novels (or novellas), and I don't think I will be in a rush to do so. The premises and the stories are fine, but I find the characters are merely similar to Darcy and Elizabeth - but not really them.
We're told at the beginning of the book that Darcy is aloof and brooding, but we see no evidence of it except when he and Elizabeth are at odds (which seems like it's often based on Elizabeth's lengthy inner reflections, but in reality is only twice). He's never shy, and talks openly to Elizabeth about his feelings from the very beginning. Elizabeth's character is very similar. We're told that she's the Lizzy we know from P&P, but both characters could just as easily have been entirely new ones in an original short story.
There are no real obstacles in this novella, apart from a very small misunderstanding when Darcy leaves to visit his Aunt in Kent. Even I didn't realise there was a misunderstanding until Elizabeth over-reacted. I think this might be because the reactions and expectations are modern, and not what they would have been for that time period. For example, in P&P one of Darcy's primary concerns is Elizabeth's unsuitability based on her social standing. In this novella he simply doesn't care about that, which isn't in keeping with either his character or the thinking of the time.
A lot of the story is told from Elizabeth's perspective, and adds a lot of her unnecessary, confusing and contradictory thoughts. Each chapter seems to end with Elizabeth writing in her Jane-Diary, but since she's basically summarising what happened in the chapter it seems quite pointless.
I really feel that this story could benefit from an editor, as it really is more of a short story that's been over-worded to reach novella status.
I haven't read many of this author's novels (or novellas), and I don't think I will be in a rush to do so. The premises and the stories are fine, but I find the characters are merely similar to Darcy and Elizabeth - but not really them.
We're told at the beginning of the book that Darcy is aloof and brooding, but we see no evidence of it except when he and Elizabeth are at odds (which seems like it's often based on Elizabeth's lengthy inner reflections, but in reality is only twice). He's never shy, and talks openly to Elizabeth about his feelings from the very beginning. Elizabeth's character is very similar. We're told that she's the Lizzy we know from P&P, but both characters could just as easily have been entirely new ones in an original short story.
There are no real obstacles in this novella, apart from a very small misunderstanding when Darcy leaves to visit his Aunt in Kent. Even I didn't realise there was a misunderstanding until Elizabeth over-reacted. I think this might be because the reactions and expectations are modern, and not what they would have been for that time period. For example, in P&P one of Darcy's primary concerns is Elizabeth's unsuitability based on her social standing. In this novella he simply doesn't care about that, which isn't in keeping with either his character or the thinking of the time.
A lot of the story is told from Elizabeth's perspective, and adds a lot of her unnecessary, confusing and contradictory thoughts. Each chapter seems to end with Elizabeth writing in her Jane-Diary, but since she's basically summarising what happened in the chapter it seems quite pointless.
I really feel that this story could benefit from an editor, as it really is more of a short story that's been over-worded to reach novella status.
July 29, 2016
I found this book , while well written, to be oddly paced. This isn't a P&P variation as much as a P&P what if; or P&P in a blender. I generally like the works of this author and find her to be creative. This to me was not an enjoyable read.
This is a short book and many characters from the original feel shoe horned in. To begin we must accept the premise that Mr. Bennet had a sister who married very well then spurned her brother when he married Miss Gardiner, the daughter of a country lawyer. Now many years later she has decided to take on one of his children as her heir and Lizzy is selected. She is bitter over being separated from her family and still mourning the loss of a sibling. Darcy is there for a horse race, visiting the family the aunt has selected for Lizzy's future husband.
I complain about this often but in the original the reason for Lizzy's & Darcy's misunderstandings are their inability to talk. In this story they are often together and have ample time to communicate yet they both seem inclined to willfully think the worst of the other.
This Darcy behaves in a manner which I am beginning to see as a trope, he believes he can command the world to fall into order and he is above it all.
The part I liked least was when Darcy confronts Wickham the author chooses to review every action of Wickham and the Darcy family up to this point. And does so in detail. It truly felt like filler.
This is a short book and many characters from the original feel shoe horned in. To begin we must accept the premise that Mr. Bennet had a sister who married very well then spurned her brother when he married Miss Gardiner, the daughter of a country lawyer. Now many years later she has decided to take on one of his children as her heir and Lizzy is selected. She is bitter over being separated from her family and still mourning the loss of a sibling. Darcy is there for a horse race, visiting the family the aunt has selected for Lizzy's future husband.
I complain about this often but in the original the reason for Lizzy's & Darcy's misunderstandings are their inability to talk. In this story they are often together and have ample time to communicate yet they both seem inclined to willfully think the worst of the other.
This Darcy behaves in a manner which I am beginning to see as a trope, he believes he can command the world to fall into order and he is above it all.
The part I liked least was when Darcy confronts Wickham the author chooses to review every action of Wickham and the Darcy family up to this point. And does so in detail. It truly felt like filler.
December 27, 2013
A Lasting Love Affair is yet another of PO Dixon's beautiful P&P retellings. In this story Elizabeth is sent to spend time with an aunt and sister of Mr. Bennet. Elizabeth is going to be introduced into higher society and possibly receive an inheritance. With an eligible bachelor in mind for Miss Elizabeth, Mr. Darcy has some competition. While watching the men set up their moves, Elizabeth is recovering from a broken-heart after losing her most beloved friend and sister. She has built up walls around her heart to protect herself from pain and loss, and Mr. Darcy will have to find a way to knock them down one by one to reach her heart.
I loved the heart-ache and angst this novel had. It was a sweet read waiting for Mr. Darcy to heal Elizabeth's heart. I also enjoyed this Darcy as he seemed more tender than in other variations.
I loved the heart-ache and angst this novel had. It was a sweet read waiting for Mr. Darcy to heal Elizabeth's heart. I also enjoyed this Darcy as he seemed more tender than in other variations.
October 7, 2014
If there was something between "I did not like this" and "it was okay", I would choose that...1.5 stars. I read EVERY P&P variation I come across, so I'm not very discerning when it comes to this stuff, but some of it is better than others. This is the first PO Dixon I've read. She has a LOT of Austen variations out there, but now that I've read one, I'm not sure I'll try any more. The story felt very rushed and not well thought out, almost like it was written on an assembly line, just churning out Austen inspired crap.
January 19, 2025
I've read other P&P variations by P.O. Dixon that I liked, so I was surprised and disappointed by this one. It was just badly written. The language was more modern day than Regency and there were SO many grammatical errors. Also, the book was more like an outline than a completed novel. I finished it, but had to make myself skim to the end.
January 8, 2014
Quick, sweet read. Not as compelling as some other Dixon novels, but satisfying nonetheless.
June 16, 2020
This short book should have been an easy read. I confess I only got about a third of the way through before giving up, but the writing contradicted this expectation as I found the need to regularly stop to reread sentences that did not flow well. I presume the author was attempting to mimic Jane Austen language but if it pulls the reader out of the story, it is defeating the purpose of transporting us to another era. That aside, this book still did not satisfy. The characters of Darcy and Elizabeth were not recognisable even though they were carrying the same names. Their first meeting was an accidental collision, causing Elizabeth to drop her newly acquired books. Darcy, after picking them up for her, requests she thank him pushing her into conversation. Her surly reply is to essentially claim it was his fault entirely so why should she. (Yes, I paraphrase here, P Dixon did write it better, but my point is the characterisation - Darcy is the one driving their conversation and Elizabeth is the churlish one). As the story progresses there is no playful, clever banter between the two protagonists, the only way the author seems to lay claim to it being a P&P variation is by pilfering slabs of text from Jane Austen's masterpiece and adding in some other well known characters. Darcy displays jealousy, despite his acquaintance with her being brief and her only crime , conversing with Darcy's good friend and host. Am I the only one who hears warning bells, wanting to warn Elizabeth that possessiveness is not a healthy attribute? But wait, there's more and this was the clincher for me:
page 50... 'Darcy reached for Elizabeth's hand and bestowed a moist kiss on her palm.'
Eww. Is this meant to be Mr Darcy or Mr Collins? It still makes me want to wipe my palm on something dry even as I type this.
So obviously, this author's style is not for me, but there are many who have loved it so if you are interested, I'll be returning it to the library asap.
page 50... 'Darcy reached for Elizabeth's hand and bestowed a moist kiss on her palm.'
Eww. Is this meant to be Mr Darcy or Mr Collins? It still makes me want to wipe my palm on something dry even as I type this.
So obviously, this author's style is not for me, but there are many who have loved it so if you are interested, I'll be returning it to the library asap.
June 5, 2019
A patient Darcy wins Elizabeth's heart
Elizabeth Bennet’s father has been estranged from his sister for many years, since he married a woman so beneath him in status. At last, they have managed to smooth out some of their differences. A widowed and childless Lady Vanessa offers to make Elizabeth her heir. Elizabeth agrees and leaves her beloved Longbourn and family to live with her aunt.
Lady Vanessa has already selected a young man for Elizabeth to marry. When Darcy shows up, he finds he has some competition for the young woman’s attention. Despite Elizabeth’s impertinence toward him, Darcy is smitten. Elizabeth, however, is still recovering from a great loss in her life, and she’s protecting her heart from further pain. A love triangle develops, and Elizabeth enjoys the attentions of each man as they court her.
Darcy is kind and understanding and only occasionally shows his proud and arrogant side. He knows what he wants, and he’s prepared to be patient in order to get it . . . or rather her.
This is a delightful love triangle spiced with a touch of Lady Catherine’s hauteur, especially after Darcy informs her that he won’t be marrying his cousin, Anne. Lady Catherine is well matched against Lady Vanessa. Wickham also makes a displeasing and unwelcome appearance, and, yes, he’s up to his usual devilry.
I enjoyed this audiobook, and I thank the author for sharing it with me. She’s among the top Austen authors who write sequels and variations on the original. The narration is well performed and easy to listen to, bringing the characters to life.
I received this audiobook for free from the author. I appreciate her generosity, but it had no effect upon my review. All opinions expressed in this review reflect my honest reactions to listening to this audiobook.
Elizabeth Bennet’s father has been estranged from his sister for many years, since he married a woman so beneath him in status. At last, they have managed to smooth out some of their differences. A widowed and childless Lady Vanessa offers to make Elizabeth her heir. Elizabeth agrees and leaves her beloved Longbourn and family to live with her aunt.
Lady Vanessa has already selected a young man for Elizabeth to marry. When Darcy shows up, he finds he has some competition for the young woman’s attention. Despite Elizabeth’s impertinence toward him, Darcy is smitten. Elizabeth, however, is still recovering from a great loss in her life, and she’s protecting her heart from further pain. A love triangle develops, and Elizabeth enjoys the attentions of each man as they court her.
Darcy is kind and understanding and only occasionally shows his proud and arrogant side. He knows what he wants, and he’s prepared to be patient in order to get it . . . or rather her.
This is a delightful love triangle spiced with a touch of Lady Catherine’s hauteur, especially after Darcy informs her that he won’t be marrying his cousin, Anne. Lady Catherine is well matched against Lady Vanessa. Wickham also makes a displeasing and unwelcome appearance, and, yes, he’s up to his usual devilry.
I enjoyed this audiobook, and I thank the author for sharing it with me. She’s among the top Austen authors who write sequels and variations on the original. The narration is well performed and easy to listen to, bringing the characters to life.
I received this audiobook for free from the author. I appreciate her generosity, but it had no effect upon my review. All opinions expressed in this review reflect my honest reactions to listening to this audiobook.
July 23, 2021
Jane has died and the bereaved Elizabeth writes letters to her to process her feelings. Mr Bennet has an estranged sister, Lady Vanessa, who invites Elizabeth to live with her, thinking of a new connection between the families. There is a possibility that she might make Elizabeth her heir. She accepts the invitation and goes to live in Bosley with Lady Vanessa, making some new friends and meeting Mr Darcy who has an interest in horse racing and Elizabeth, not necessarily in that order. It seems like the beginning of a beautiful love affair but when Darcy has to leave town for a while to attend to Lady Catherine Elizabeth sabotages the relationship rather a lot with her insecurity and snippy, peevish reactions. Will they ever meet again? (Spoiler warning: of course they will.) The story is engaging and The original characters are good although at times I was getting a little annoyed at Elizabeth and the constant misunderstandings.
I listened to this as an audiobook on Audible, narrated by Pearl Hewitt. She is a clear and pleasant reader who is at her best doing dialogue with sneering, lofty characters, and there is a scene between Mrs Bennet and Lady Catherine that is an absolute delight read by her. On the downside, sometimes the dialogue sounds a bit like an argument even when the scene wasn't supposed to be a quarrel (I am assuming).
I received a free review copy from Storyoriginapp and this is a voluntary review.
I listened to this as an audiobook on Audible, narrated by Pearl Hewitt. She is a clear and pleasant reader who is at her best doing dialogue with sneering, lofty characters, and there is a scene between Mrs Bennet and Lady Catherine that is an absolute delight read by her. On the downside, sometimes the dialogue sounds a bit like an argument even when the scene wasn't supposed to be a quarrel (I am assuming).
I received a free review copy from Storyoriginapp and this is a voluntary review.
April 5, 2023
I've read other P.O. Dixon P.O. Dixon P&P variations but this is my first that is a shorter novella style. I listened to this in audio format and while I like the narrator in general, I always feel that her reads of Darcy makes him sound older than he is.
I enjoyed that while this Mr. Darcy doesn't struggle in the same way to more immediately come to terms with his feelings for Elizabeth, the couple still faces challenges as Elizabeth struggles to trust another to touch her heart after a very recent tragedy has left her guarded and cautious.
It was a lot of fun to see Darcy be more emotionally demonstrative and a bit of a 'flirt'. It was a change of pace for me to feel frustrated at Elizabeth for some of her assumptions and misconceptions but in the end I appreciated the journey these two took to each other.
If you are looking for a little light and P&P fun in a shorter format, then enjoy this read!
I enjoyed that while this Mr. Darcy doesn't struggle in the same way to more immediately come to terms with his feelings for Elizabeth, the couple still faces challenges as Elizabeth struggles to trust another to touch her heart after a very recent tragedy has left her guarded and cautious.
It was a lot of fun to see Darcy be more emotionally demonstrative and a bit of a 'flirt'. It was a change of pace for me to feel frustrated at Elizabeth for some of her assumptions and misconceptions but in the end I appreciated the journey these two took to each other.
If you are looking for a little light and P&P fun in a shorter format, then enjoy this read!
February 15, 2021
I received this audio book in exchange for a review. I am very glad I got this book because, as it turns out, I had already read the sequel and had wanted to find the first book. The story line was believable and very well thought out. I really liked the more outgoing Darcy and the fact that more than one person was interested in Elizabeth. It's about time! The reader had good voices for each character and a pleasant pace. P.O. Dixon is one of my favorite authors and I look forward to reading and listening to more of her works.
May 10, 2020
Enjoyable and terrific read
Entirely different and great writing. I enjoyed this variation in which Elizabeth and Darcy meet each other in completely different manner. There is one less Bennet to this story, but the effect is sadness. I truly enjoyed how they came to know each other, but Darcy's tendency shown through. The storyline is well understood and the couple of different plots make this even better. Highly recommended to read.
Entirely different and great writing. I enjoyed this variation in which Elizabeth and Darcy meet each other in completely different manner. There is one less Bennet to this story, but the effect is sadness. I truly enjoyed how they came to know each other, but Darcy's tendency shown through. The storyline is well understood and the couple of different plots make this even better. Highly recommended to read.
October 26, 2024
Enjoyed every moment
The story twist was easy to figure out from other reviews. I felt Elizabeth was correct in her emotions and stance with Darcy. He was not so slow to change but he did not need so many changes.
Yes I wanted more details. However the Darcy and Elizabeth time was enjoyable. I am glad there were no extra villains. I feel Darcy and Elizabeth are stubborn enough to have enough heartache.
I do recommend this sweet and clean variation to all.
The story twist was easy to figure out from other reviews. I felt Elizabeth was correct in her emotions and stance with Darcy. He was not so slow to change but he did not need so many changes.
Yes I wanted more details. However the Darcy and Elizabeth time was enjoyable. I am glad there were no extra villains. I feel Darcy and Elizabeth are stubborn enough to have enough heartache.
I do recommend this sweet and clean variation to all.
May 22, 2020
4 stars
A wonderful what-if adventure back into Jane Austen’s much loved classic, pride and prejudice. As the original does, this follows Elizabeth Bennett and mr Darcy all the way to their epic HEA.
A wonderful what-if adventure back into Jane Austen’s much loved classic, pride and prejudice. As the original does, this follows Elizabeth Bennett and mr Darcy all the way to their epic HEA.
July 26, 2021
I feels more like a different story has been woven into the original. there are several places where the story is exactly the same as the original. Then it will be different again.
The narrator was good.
The narrator was good.
November 11, 2021
Boring
Repetitious. Besides could not see the reason for Janes demise. Really added nothing to the story. The rest of story was not much difference from JA's version with a.lot left out. Anyway sorry I bought this was a waste of money.
Repetitious. Besides could not see the reason for Janes demise. Really added nothing to the story. The rest of story was not much difference from JA's version with a.lot left out. Anyway sorry I bought this was a waste of money.
March 24, 2023
lackluster
I found this one kind of boring. The relationship doesn’t feel like it developed naturally… ii thought it was just meh.
I found this one kind of boring. The relationship doesn’t feel like it developed naturally… ii thought it was just meh.
April 29, 2014
I always enjoy P.O Dixon's stories, Darcy and Elizabeth are always slightly different in each one, due to some change in particulars, often meeting one another following a life changing event, such as Darcy being younger than Elizabeth or Elizabeth as a widow.
I was excited to read this new instalment from Dixon, which is a Pride and Prejudice 'what if'.
Dear Jane, never makes it to Netherfield as she turns around in the down pour of rain and heads home.
I always did wonder at Mrs Bennets' comment that 'nobody dies of a trifling cold', as I was under the impression that in Austen's time it was possible and ever more probable in comparison to today, is this to be Jane's fate?
Mr Bennet has a sister, Lady Vanessa, her husband has died and left everything to her. With no children to inherit she intends to pass it down to her niece Elizabeth. Lady Vanessa has had little to do with Mr Bennet, since he married a woman who's family was in trade, therefore Elizabeth will now live with Lady Vanessa, in order to breech the rift between the two siblings. If Lady Vanessa is pleased, Elizabeth will become her heiress, solving the problem of the Bennet estate being entailed away from the female line, to their cousin Mr Collins.
Lady Vanessa's closest friend and sister in law is Lady Clarissa Holland, the two of them have designs on making a match between Elizabeth and lady Clarissa's son, lord Holland. With Lord Holland destined for Elizabeth, does Mr Darcy have competition?
Originally posted on My Kids led Me Back to Pride & Prejudice
On that note, enter Mr Darcy, who is staying with his friend Lord Holland at his estate Avondale, while his horses compete in the races. The world of horse racing is a first for me in JAFF and this added extra I found refreshing.
Another positive about this book was the absence of Elizabeth's usual dislike of Darcy (well almost absent) and the two become firm friends very quickly. This development was nice as Elizabeth was slightly insecure and in much need of a friend!
Lady Vanessa is like Lady Catherine in her haughty manner, which is an inevitable consequence of ones' rank is it not? Yet she has a good side to her and most probably a soft spot for Elizabeth, although she does not show it. Lady Vanessa went up in my estimation when she had a quiet word in the ear of Miss Bingley, I do delight in Miss Bingley getting a set down!
This book was a pleasant read with some lovely moments, Elizabeth's private riding lessons with Mr Darcy for one. With a rival in Lord Holland, a jealous Darcy always adds to the excitement, although his boldness did board on arrogance at times. Elizabeth's inner thoughts were funny and a nice added touch, while original P&P lines were interwoven often bringing a smile to my face.
I have read most of Dixon's books (He taught me to hope is one of my favourites) and this was another delightful read. Albeit it was a short read, however that did not stop me from enjoying yet another JAFF P&P variation. Keep them coming P.O.Dixon I eagerly await another!!
I was excited to read this new instalment from Dixon, which is a Pride and Prejudice 'what if'.
Dear Jane, never makes it to Netherfield as she turns around in the down pour of rain and heads home.
I always did wonder at Mrs Bennets' comment that 'nobody dies of a trifling cold', as I was under the impression that in Austen's time it was possible and ever more probable in comparison to today, is this to be Jane's fate?
Mr Bennet has a sister, Lady Vanessa, her husband has died and left everything to her. With no children to inherit she intends to pass it down to her niece Elizabeth. Lady Vanessa has had little to do with Mr Bennet, since he married a woman who's family was in trade, therefore Elizabeth will now live with Lady Vanessa, in order to breech the rift between the two siblings. If Lady Vanessa is pleased, Elizabeth will become her heiress, solving the problem of the Bennet estate being entailed away from the female line, to their cousin Mr Collins.
Lady Vanessa's closest friend and sister in law is Lady Clarissa Holland, the two of them have designs on making a match between Elizabeth and lady Clarissa's son, lord Holland. With Lord Holland destined for Elizabeth, does Mr Darcy have competition?
Originally posted on My Kids led Me Back to Pride & Prejudice
On that note, enter Mr Darcy, who is staying with his friend Lord Holland at his estate Avondale, while his horses compete in the races. The world of horse racing is a first for me in JAFF and this added extra I found refreshing.
Another positive about this book was the absence of Elizabeth's usual dislike of Darcy (well almost absent) and the two become firm friends very quickly. This development was nice as Elizabeth was slightly insecure and in much need of a friend!
Lady Vanessa is like Lady Catherine in her haughty manner, which is an inevitable consequence of ones' rank is it not? Yet she has a good side to her and most probably a soft spot for Elizabeth, although she does not show it. Lady Vanessa went up in my estimation when she had a quiet word in the ear of Miss Bingley, I do delight in Miss Bingley getting a set down!
This book was a pleasant read with some lovely moments, Elizabeth's private riding lessons with Mr Darcy for one. With a rival in Lord Holland, a jealous Darcy always adds to the excitement, although his boldness did board on arrogance at times. Elizabeth's inner thoughts were funny and a nice added touch, while original P&P lines were interwoven often bringing a smile to my face.
I have read most of Dixon's books (He taught me to hope is one of my favourites) and this was another delightful read. Albeit it was a short read, however that did not stop me from enjoying yet another JAFF P&P variation. Keep them coming P.O.Dixon I eagerly await another!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews