Wonderful
This author is an automatic purchase for me. Although almost all of the players in this variation are out-of-character, the premise is interesting, and demands great changes. True to the expectation that Lydia Bennett was so wild that she would eventually ruin her family, Lydia elopes with a militia officer, and disappears without a trace. The remaining Bennetts are instantly shunned by Meryton society, and become the subject of malicious gossip, deserted by almost all of their friends, having attained the reputation for all being fallen women. Into this scene comes the Bingleys, the Hursts, and Darcy with his sister Georgiana. At first the party at Netherfield has no contact with the Bennetts, as they never show their faces in society. But eventually, Darcy sees Elizabeth while riding, stops to speak with her, and they strike up a friendship that quickly turns to mutual attraction.
I liked the changes that circumstances demanded of the Bennett family. With only themselves to depend on and associate with, Jane cast off her rose colored glasses and grew a backbone. Elizabeth started out uncharacteristically bitter, but soon became a catalyst for a closer relationship with Mary and Kitty. Those two became more thoughtful and well rounded. Mr Bennett came out of his study and started taking care of his family. Mrs Bennett's shock at what happened subdued her, in a good way. I also like what happens to Jane in London. It's a clever twist, and so satisfying. This is a swoon worthy Darcy, and the romance is lovely.
I deducted a star because of the pall cast over most of the story by the depressing circumstances that the Bennetts had to endure. Their suffering was so great for such a long time that I couldn't wait for something positive to happen. It does happen, but it's a long time coming. However, the book is very well written and well edited. I recommend it highly for a very angsty, but also very romantic and satisfying tale, and a pleasant way to pass some time.