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His Choice of a Wife: A Variation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice
A disastrous proposal. A fresh start. Can this tentative duo forgive the past and make each other promises of forever?
Elizabeth Bennet worries she’s been too hasty. Distressed after reading her rejected suitor’s passionate letter of self-defense, the agitated young woman agonizes that she’s put a scoundrel on a pedestal and scorned a worthy man. And when they meet again during an unexpected morning call, her heart pounds with a wave of relief when he quickly accepts her clever apology.
Fitzwilliam Darcy regrets his quick judgments. So after a shockingly cordial exchange renews his hopes, the gentleman strikes up a tentative friendship with the object of his affections. But though the woman he adores seems willing to grant him a second chance, he fears her kin’s reckless behavior could still smear his reputation.
Confused by her father’s disapproval of her prospective match, Elizabeth’s dreams turn to dismay when a corrupt soldier tempts her sister into a scandal. And as Darcy does his best to protect his beloved’s family, honor demands he put his life on the line.
In a duel of wits and weapons, will love prevail to save the day?
This is a second edition of His Choice of a Wife, a slightly steamy Regency romance.
Elizabeth Bennet worries she’s been too hasty. Distressed after reading her rejected suitor’s passionate letter of self-defense, the agitated young woman agonizes that she’s put a scoundrel on a pedestal and scorned a worthy man. And when they meet again during an unexpected morning call, her heart pounds with a wave of relief when he quickly accepts her clever apology.
Fitzwilliam Darcy regrets his quick judgments. So after a shockingly cordial exchange renews his hopes, the gentleman strikes up a tentative friendship with the object of his affections. But though the woman he adores seems willing to grant him a second chance, he fears her kin’s reckless behavior could still smear his reputation.
Confused by her father’s disapproval of her prospective match, Elizabeth’s dreams turn to dismay when a corrupt soldier tempts her sister into a scandal. And as Darcy does his best to protect his beloved’s family, honor demands he put his life on the line.
In a duel of wits and weapons, will love prevail to save the day?
This is a second edition of His Choice of a Wife, a slightly steamy Regency romance.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 10, 2019
200 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
November 7, 2023
This long variation has familiar events but with a twist to each...a different outcome. Remember throughout, though, that the majority of authors promise a HEA for ODC.
The Hunsford Proposal has occurred but here we have our first twist in that Elizabeth returns to the parsonage before Darcy and the Colonel leave. She has read his letter and now has her own regrets and doubts as to her cruel words in rejecting his offer the day before. They take time to discuss some of what was written as to both Wickham and the relationship between Jane and Bingley. Darcy's offer to take Elizabeth's correspondence to Jane is accepted and, thus when Elizabeth finally returns to the Gardiners' house she learns that both Darcy and Bingley have been frequent visitors there. Darcy's and Elizabeth's relationship gradually changes and he makes a second offer much sooner than in canon.
Thus the first approximately half of the book has to do with their romance. There are some MA scenes and Mr. Bennet's attitude towards Darcy and even Elizabeth is appalling! He scoffs at possible reasons Elizabeth might be marrying Darcy and doubts even that she will long be satisfied with him and poses that she will soon stray from his side. He begrudgingly gives his approval but NOT his blessing for the marriage.
The rest of the book has a lot of angst and deals with not only Jane's and Bingley's relationship but also that of Lydia and Wickham. These couples do not end up as in canon. AND with those both being the subject for conjecture and gossip there is some tension between Darcy and Elizabeth. She can see every reason why he would not want to be connected with the Bennets while he is determined to prove not only his faithfulness to her but also the fact that her family is now his family and he will do everything he can do to rectify situations. In the one case it turns out that there is nothing he can do and in the other events are carried to an extreme.
I enjoyed this story. I highly recommend it. It certainly kept my attention.
I reviewed this as an unpublished story but the author's name is different (His Choice of a Wife
by Dolly1981) so I have to assume that the author used a pseudonym in the unpublished story. My review there is longer so you may want to read that also.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
10/13/2023: I am now reading a newly published edition of this story which I received as an ARC.
The Hunsford Proposal has occurred but here we have our first twist in that Elizabeth returns to the parsonage before Darcy and the Colonel leave. She has read his letter and now has her own regrets and doubts as to her cruel words in rejecting his offer the day before. They take time to discuss some of what was written as to both Wickham and the relationship between Jane and Bingley. Darcy's offer to take Elizabeth's correspondence to Jane is accepted and, thus when Elizabeth finally returns to the Gardiners' house she learns that both Darcy and Bingley have been frequent visitors there. Darcy's and Elizabeth's relationship gradually changes and he makes a second offer much sooner than in canon.
Thus the first approximately half of the book has to do with their romance. There are some MA scenes and Mr. Bennet's attitude towards Darcy and even Elizabeth is appalling! He scoffs at possible reasons Elizabeth might be marrying Darcy and doubts even that she will long be satisfied with him and poses that she will soon stray from his side. He begrudgingly gives his approval but NOT his blessing for the marriage.
The rest of the book has a lot of angst and deals with not only Jane's and Bingley's relationship but also that of Lydia and Wickham. These couples do not end up as in canon. AND with those both being the subject for conjecture and gossip there is some tension between Darcy and Elizabeth. She can see every reason why he would not want to be connected with the Bennets while he is determined to prove not only his faithfulness to her but also the fact that her family is now his family and he will do everything he can do to rectify situations. In the one case it turns out that there is nothing he can do and in the other events are carried to an extreme.
I enjoyed this story. I highly recommend it. It certainly kept my attention.
I reviewed this as an unpublished story but the author's name is different (His Choice of a Wife
by Dolly1981) so I have to assume that the author used a pseudonym in the unpublished story. My review there is longer so you may want to read that also.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
10/13/2023: I am now reading a newly published edition of this story which I received as an ARC.
July 30, 2019
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
This book is excellent in so many respects and even brilliant in some others. I wish I could rate it higher, but I can't overlook some missteps that just don't work for me. Sorry, but this will be a long review in order to explain.
The premise starts the book off on a high note: It's the morning after the Hunsford proposal. After reading Darcy's letter of explanation, Elizabeth returns to the parsonage to find him and Colonel Fitzwilliam still making their farewell call. Both she and Darcy, upon reflection, now regret their poor behavior the previous evening, especially considering what they learned about Wickham and about Jane Bennet, respectively. They communicate this softening of their attitudes through veiled dialogue in company and then surreptitiously plan to meet again for further discussion the next morning before Darcy leaves for London. That conversation leads Darcy to bring Mr. Bingley calling on the Gardiners in Cheapside, providing both couples (Elizabeth/Darcy and Jane/Bingley) a second chance.
Georgiana gets a handful of great scenes. She starts out so shy she can barely speak in more than one-word sentences when Darcy brings her to call on the Gardiners and Bennet sisters, but she gradually gets more comfortable and outgoing. It's a solid characterization for the little sister who's sometimes not much more than a cardboard figure in these variations.
By the time Elizabeth and Jane return to Longbourn, Darcy has received Elizabeth's consent to call on her there. We quickly learn this dysfunctional Bennet family is even worse than Jane Austen's. Mrs. Bennet is... well, Mrs. Bennet at her silliest and most dense. And I guarantee you'll HATE Mr. Bennet, whose disinterest in anything that would require him to exert himself is taken to extremes. Lizzy is still his favorite, but that works against her in this situation.
The strange parental dynamics also provide a credible explanation for Lydia's wild behavior. You may hate Lydia at times, and perhaps she does get off a little easy at the end. However, it's made clear that this is a child whose parents have created a monster. She never had a chance. As presented here, Lydia is (at times) sympathetic, while Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are awful throughout, even when they think they're being supportive.
Along with the not-so-nice-Mr. Bennet, we find a wishy-washy-wimpy Mr. Bingley. He SO does NOT deserve Jane Bennet! But he's not a one-dimensional character, either. He gets a couple of nice shining moments highlighting Darcy's poor persuasive skills, especially in the Lydia-and-Wickham storyline.
Elizabeth and Darcy have a great deal of page time together, which is always popular. Sparks fly, both verbal and the other kind. Their sensual chemistry is steamy throughout. Be aware that the content is definitely MA, though I don't consider it gratuitous. The fact that they anticipate their wedding vows (at which time they consider themselves already husband and wife, though no one else would think so) is absolutely relevant to the way the plot develops and does have ramifications in Darcy's future decision-making.
The last half of the book, starting from the point where Lydia elopes with Wickham, is excruciatingly angsty. (I actually mean that in a good way.) Prepare to be as tortured as Darcy and Elizabeth in the pages leading up to the end. Colonel Fitzwilliam returns in an integral role. The build-up, the climactic turning point, and then its aftermath are among the best I've read in JAFF, and that's saying something! (Have tissues nearby. It's likely you'll be crying.)
The writing is very good, too. I know it's not easy for a contemporary writer to capture authentic-sounding Regency wording. It's a fine line to walk, and there are times here when the dialogue seems a bit too wooden or overly dramatic. Most of the time, however, Ms. Moll does a creditable job. I especially like her character insights, some of which I've indicated above. There are only minimal editing errors. Someone did a great proofreading job.
I truly appreciate that she wisely does not veer off into involved tangents with Lady Catherine, Anne de Bourgh, or other pop-up subplots. There's plenty of story here without adding more. Darcy hears from his aunt, of course, but she's not allowed to take significant page space.
With all this praise, why not rate this a 5-star, or even a full 4? (I REALLY wish GoodReads and Amazon allowed for half-star ratings, BTW.)
The first half of the book employs a trope I often read that ALWAYS bugs me. It creates plenty of reconciliatory closeness between Elizabeth and Darcy, so I guess that's the attraction for some readers, but I hate it. They misinterpret each other's body language, get seriously annoyed, and then they don't talk about it immediately. This happens several times, with Elizabeth assuming the worst about Darcy, while the poor guy tries to figure out what's changed her mood and usually guesses wrong. Time goes by before they finally talk, and then Darcy gets ticked off because he feels she willfully mistrusts him (she does), no matter how far he bends to try to gain her trust.
To this author's credit, she does give an explanation for Elizabeth's reactions. However, it makes our heroine too unlikable through much of this half of the book. There's enough going on in the rest of the story that these stupid spats could/should be eliminated because they do NOT affect the primary plot. Just TALK to each other, for heaven's sake! It's manufactured angst that gets on my last nerve. Fortunately, by the time serious outside obstacles emerge, they're mostly over this phase of their relationship, to my great relief.
I know this was originally posted as a story online. As is often the case with fan-fic works that get published, it's guilty of repetitive and sometimes excessive character introspection. This is a true omniscient (not limited) point of view, so we get glimpses into many characters' heads. It's often unnecessary, since the reader can deduce some of these thoughts based on their actions, or it's something we were already told two chapters ago. For example, Elizabeth and Darcy constantly obsess over Elizabeth's loss of virtue and comparing it to Lydia's situation. I got it the first time. Perhaps I'd be okay with it coming up just once more at a far later page, but not as frequently as it does here.
My other two problems in the book are with plot details that involve some spoilers:
Knowing my dear GoodReads friends, this will be a 5-star read for many of you. I do recommend it because it has a lot of wonderful qualities even though I found it disappointingly uneven.
This book is excellent in so many respects and even brilliant in some others. I wish I could rate it higher, but I can't overlook some missteps that just don't work for me. Sorry, but this will be a long review in order to explain.
The premise starts the book off on a high note: It's the morning after the Hunsford proposal. After reading Darcy's letter of explanation, Elizabeth returns to the parsonage to find him and Colonel Fitzwilliam still making their farewell call. Both she and Darcy, upon reflection, now regret their poor behavior the previous evening, especially considering what they learned about Wickham and about Jane Bennet, respectively. They communicate this softening of their attitudes through veiled dialogue in company and then surreptitiously plan to meet again for further discussion the next morning before Darcy leaves for London. That conversation leads Darcy to bring Mr. Bingley calling on the Gardiners in Cheapside, providing both couples (Elizabeth/Darcy and Jane/Bingley) a second chance.
Georgiana gets a handful of great scenes. She starts out so shy she can barely speak in more than one-word sentences when Darcy brings her to call on the Gardiners and Bennet sisters, but she gradually gets more comfortable and outgoing. It's a solid characterization for the little sister who's sometimes not much more than a cardboard figure in these variations.
By the time Elizabeth and Jane return to Longbourn, Darcy has received Elizabeth's consent to call on her there. We quickly learn this dysfunctional Bennet family is even worse than Jane Austen's. Mrs. Bennet is... well, Mrs. Bennet at her silliest and most dense. And I guarantee you'll HATE Mr. Bennet, whose disinterest in anything that would require him to exert himself is taken to extremes. Lizzy is still his favorite, but that works against her in this situation.
The strange parental dynamics also provide a credible explanation for Lydia's wild behavior. You may hate Lydia at times, and perhaps she does get off a little easy at the end. However, it's made clear that this is a child whose parents have created a monster. She never had a chance. As presented here, Lydia is (at times) sympathetic, while Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are awful throughout, even when they think they're being supportive.
Along with the not-so-nice-Mr. Bennet, we find a wishy-washy-wimpy Mr. Bingley. He SO does NOT deserve Jane Bennet! But he's not a one-dimensional character, either. He gets a couple of nice shining moments highlighting Darcy's poor persuasive skills, especially in the Lydia-and-Wickham storyline.
Elizabeth and Darcy have a great deal of page time together, which is always popular. Sparks fly, both verbal and the other kind. Their sensual chemistry is steamy throughout. Be aware that the content is definitely MA, though I don't consider it gratuitous. The fact that they anticipate their wedding vows (at which time they consider themselves already husband and wife, though no one else would think so) is absolutely relevant to the way the plot develops and does have ramifications in Darcy's future decision-making.
The last half of the book, starting from the point where Lydia elopes with Wickham, is excruciatingly angsty. (I actually mean that in a good way.) Prepare to be as tortured as Darcy and Elizabeth in the pages leading up to the end. Colonel Fitzwilliam returns in an integral role. The build-up, the climactic turning point, and then its aftermath are among the best I've read in JAFF, and that's saying something! (Have tissues nearby. It's likely you'll be crying.)
The writing is very good, too. I know it's not easy for a contemporary writer to capture authentic-sounding Regency wording. It's a fine line to walk, and there are times here when the dialogue seems a bit too wooden or overly dramatic. Most of the time, however, Ms. Moll does a creditable job. I especially like her character insights, some of which I've indicated above. There are only minimal editing errors. Someone did a great proofreading job.
I truly appreciate that she wisely does not veer off into involved tangents with Lady Catherine, Anne de Bourgh, or other pop-up subplots. There's plenty of story here without adding more. Darcy hears from his aunt, of course, but she's not allowed to take significant page space.
With all this praise, why not rate this a 5-star, or even a full 4? (I REALLY wish GoodReads and Amazon allowed for half-star ratings, BTW.)
The first half of the book employs a trope I often read that ALWAYS bugs me. It creates plenty of reconciliatory closeness between Elizabeth and Darcy, so I guess that's the attraction for some readers, but I hate it. They misinterpret each other's body language, get seriously annoyed, and then they don't talk about it immediately. This happens several times, with Elizabeth assuming the worst about Darcy, while the poor guy tries to figure out what's changed her mood and usually guesses wrong. Time goes by before they finally talk, and then Darcy gets ticked off because he feels she willfully mistrusts him (she does), no matter how far he bends to try to gain her trust.
To this author's credit, she does give an explanation for Elizabeth's reactions. However, it makes our heroine too unlikable through much of this half of the book. There's enough going on in the rest of the story that these stupid spats could/should be eliminated because they do NOT affect the primary plot. Just TALK to each other, for heaven's sake! It's manufactured angst that gets on my last nerve. Fortunately, by the time serious outside obstacles emerge, they're mostly over this phase of their relationship, to my great relief.
I know this was originally posted as a story online. As is often the case with fan-fic works that get published, it's guilty of repetitive and sometimes excessive character introspection. This is a true omniscient (not limited) point of view, so we get glimpses into many characters' heads. It's often unnecessary, since the reader can deduce some of these thoughts based on their actions, or it's something we were already told two chapters ago. For example, Elizabeth and Darcy constantly obsess over Elizabeth's loss of virtue and comparing it to Lydia's situation. I got it the first time. Perhaps I'd be okay with it coming up just once more at a far later page, but not as frequently as it does here.
My other two problems in the book are with plot details that involve some spoilers:
Knowing my dear GoodReads friends, this will be a 5-star read for many of you. I do recommend it because it has a lot of wonderful qualities even though I found it disappointingly uneven.
May 8, 2021
Next to the wound, what women make best is the bandage. ~ Jules Barbey d'Aurevilly
Fitzwilliam Darcy is walking wounded (just barely) after delivering his letter explaining past actions with Bingley and Wickham. Elizabeth returns to the parsonage while Darcy and the Colonel are still present and signals to Darcy that she has read and believed his explanations. The bandage has been applied and healing can begin.
Friendship develops into courtship after they have returned to London and continues in Hertfordshire where Mr. Bennet refuses his consent to their marriage. Elizabeth’s father is at his most unattractive in the rest of the story, allowing Lydia freedom that he denies to Elizabeth. The Lydia/Wickham episode is very different and features a Wickham who has quickly married another woman after abandoning Lydia.
A comment on the cover, not the story: The cover girl is wearing a very pretty gown that is actually trimmed with RIBBONS! In so many stories, the Bennet sisters (especially Lydia) search for new ribbons to re-style an older gown but images on the cover show gowns with embroidery or other types of trim. At last, a gown Lydia would love!
“His Choice of Wife” is another story that has been available at Fan Fiction sites for several years. I am so happy to see authors bravely moving into publishing their stories. So many real gems are waiting for readers to re-discover them, while other books published at Amazon seem to be written by third-graders. Bravo, Ms. Moll!
The story is well-written and proofread. I recommend it to all readers who enjoy JAFF.
[W]omen are meant to be loved, not to be understood. ~ Oscar Wilde, "The Sphinx without a Secret," 1891
Fitzwilliam Darcy is walking wounded (just barely) after delivering his letter explaining past actions with Bingley and Wickham. Elizabeth returns to the parsonage while Darcy and the Colonel are still present and signals to Darcy that she has read and believed his explanations. The bandage has been applied and healing can begin.
Friendship develops into courtship after they have returned to London and continues in Hertfordshire where Mr. Bennet refuses his consent to their marriage. Elizabeth’s father is at his most unattractive in the rest of the story, allowing Lydia freedom that he denies to Elizabeth. The Lydia/Wickham episode is very different and features a Wickham who has quickly married another woman after abandoning Lydia.
A comment on the cover, not the story: The cover girl is wearing a very pretty gown that is actually trimmed with RIBBONS! In so many stories, the Bennet sisters (especially Lydia) search for new ribbons to re-style an older gown but images on the cover show gowns with embroidery or other types of trim. At last, a gown Lydia would love!
“His Choice of Wife” is another story that has been available at Fan Fiction sites for several years. I am so happy to see authors bravely moving into publishing their stories. So many real gems are waiting for readers to re-discover them, while other books published at Amazon seem to be written by third-graders. Bravo, Ms. Moll!
The story is well-written and proofread. I recommend it to all readers who enjoy JAFF.
[W]omen are meant to be loved, not to be understood. ~ Oscar Wilde, "The Sphinx without a Secret," 1891
February 8, 2023
My second time reading this. Listening as an Audiobook for this version.
It is a good rendition, the narrator did a good job.
However, I did not enjoy the book so much, I think this is my least favorite from this author.
The more variations I read, the more I realize that the physical/lust cannot take the place of good writing and story-lines. Anticipating vows falls along those lines.
And I can't get past the hypocrisy of ODC having sex before a marriage contract and then Elizabeth's being disappointed and angry regarding Lydia's similar behavior (Lydia did think she was getting married).
Also, with so many creative ideas out there, using the old Lydia/Wickham trope gets tedious.
It is a good rendition, the narrator did a good job.
However, I did not enjoy the book so much, I think this is my least favorite from this author.
The more variations I read, the more I realize that the physical/lust cannot take the place of good writing and story-lines. Anticipating vows falls along those lines.
And I can't get past the hypocrisy of ODC having sex before a marriage contract and then Elizabeth's being disappointed and angry regarding Lydia's similar behavior (Lydia did think she was getting married).
Also, with so many creative ideas out there, using the old Lydia/Wickham trope gets tedious.
April 10, 2025
Still a favourite.
In Pride and Prejudice, after Elizabeth receives Darcy’s letter, she never encounters him again before he takes his leave of Hunsford. Heather Moll’s ‘His Choice of a Wife’ begins with a different premise, revealing what would happen if Elizabeth arrived at the parsonage while Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy are still there. Now aware of his reasons for separating Jane and Bingley, and the true nature of Wickham’s misdeeds towards his family, she signals to Darcy that she understands, discreetly letting him know she has read the letter. So begins a refreshed, second edition version of this romantic and angst-filled page-turner.
As with the first edition of this book, I especially appreciated the heartfelt dialogue, both loving and endearing, but also that which is not always said in the best of spirits. Misunderstandings and the actions of others will still plague their second chance to a happy ending, but Darcy’s patience, constancy, and honor-bound duty will eventually lead them there. His unwavering commitment to Elizabeth and her family stands in stark contrast to Bingley's inconstancy towards Jane, whose own second chance is threatened as the shadow of Lydia’s ruin threatens to change everything. I found Mr. Bennet's portrayal as an especially mean, spiteful, and indifferent father infuriating, but it added yet another stirring layer to this excellent read. The emotional depth of the writing, especially in the final chapters when Darcy faces his own mortality, and what Elizabeth could face without him, brought me to tears.
I was delighted with the epilogue in this edition, having missed one in the previous version. I added this book to my favorites the first time I read it, and there it will remain.
Highly recommend.
Mature adult content.
In Pride and Prejudice, after Elizabeth receives Darcy’s letter, she never encounters him again before he takes his leave of Hunsford. Heather Moll’s ‘His Choice of a Wife’ begins with a different premise, revealing what would happen if Elizabeth arrived at the parsonage while Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy are still there. Now aware of his reasons for separating Jane and Bingley, and the true nature of Wickham’s misdeeds towards his family, she signals to Darcy that she understands, discreetly letting him know she has read the letter. So begins a refreshed, second edition version of this romantic and angst-filled page-turner.
As with the first edition of this book, I especially appreciated the heartfelt dialogue, both loving and endearing, but also that which is not always said in the best of spirits. Misunderstandings and the actions of others will still plague their second chance to a happy ending, but Darcy’s patience, constancy, and honor-bound duty will eventually lead them there. His unwavering commitment to Elizabeth and her family stands in stark contrast to Bingley's inconstancy towards Jane, whose own second chance is threatened as the shadow of Lydia’s ruin threatens to change everything. I found Mr. Bennet's portrayal as an especially mean, spiteful, and indifferent father infuriating, but it added yet another stirring layer to this excellent read. The emotional depth of the writing, especially in the final chapters when Darcy faces his own mortality, and what Elizabeth could face without him, brought me to tears.
I was delighted with the epilogue in this edition, having missed one in the previous version. I added this book to my favorites the first time I read it, and there it will remain.
Highly recommend.
Mature adult content.
September 18, 2025
Next to the wound, what women make best is the bandage. ~ Jules Barbey d'Aurevilly
After the disastrous Hunsford proposal, Fitzwilliam Darcy is walking wounded — just barely walking. He delivers his letter explaining his past actions with Bingley and Wickham. Elizabeth Bennet returns to the parsonage while Darcy and the Colonel are still present. She signals to Darcy that she has read and believed his explanations. The bandage has been applied and healing can begin.
Friendship develops into courtship after they have returned to London and continues in Hertfordshire where Mr. Bennet refuses his consent to their marriage. Elizabeth’s father is at his most unattractive in the rest of the story, allowing Lydia freedom that he denies to Elizabeth. The Lydia/Wickham episode is very different and features a Wickham who has quickly married another woman after abandoning Lydia.
“His Choice of Wife” is a revision of a previously published story by the same name. I loved it the first time I read it. I love it still. Bravo, Ms. Moll!
The story is well-written and proofread. I recommend it to all readers who enjoy JAFF.
[W]omen are meant to be loved, not to be understood. ~ Oscar Wilde, "The Sphinx without a Secret," 1891
After the disastrous Hunsford proposal, Fitzwilliam Darcy is walking wounded — just barely walking. He delivers his letter explaining his past actions with Bingley and Wickham. Elizabeth Bennet returns to the parsonage while Darcy and the Colonel are still present. She signals to Darcy that she has read and believed his explanations. The bandage has been applied and healing can begin.
Friendship develops into courtship after they have returned to London and continues in Hertfordshire where Mr. Bennet refuses his consent to their marriage. Elizabeth’s father is at his most unattractive in the rest of the story, allowing Lydia freedom that he denies to Elizabeth. The Lydia/Wickham episode is very different and features a Wickham who has quickly married another woman after abandoning Lydia.
“His Choice of Wife” is a revision of a previously published story by the same name. I loved it the first time I read it. I love it still. Bravo, Ms. Moll!
The story is well-written and proofread. I recommend it to all readers who enjoy JAFF.
[W]omen are meant to be loved, not to be understood. ~ Oscar Wilde, "The Sphinx without a Secret," 1891
May 12, 2021
Many new or mostly new what-ifs
5 stars for plot and originality. 3.5 stars for wooden writing and some odd sounding conversations. The last half of the book was better written than the first half. It was as if the author was learning while writing.
A bit expensive for me. I recommend the book but probably won’t buy others at this price point.
No spoilers from me in this review but notes I made have spoilers.
5 stars for plot and originality. 3.5 stars for wooden writing and some odd sounding conversations. The last half of the book was better written than the first half. It was as if the author was learning while writing.
A bit expensive for me. I recommend the book but probably won’t buy others at this price point.
No spoilers from me in this review but notes I made have spoilers.
June 18, 2021
"Her vanity, wounded six months ago, prejudiced her against him to such as extent that she rewarded an unscrupulous man with her favor and misjudged a good one." (quote from the book)
What a lovely debut novel. It takes Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy on a different path to understanding shortly after the disastrous Hunsford proposal. One that is bumpy as they each learn about the other. However, it is one that ignites a simmering heat between them...the waltz scene was intense!
"How was he ever to let her go now that he had held her close?(quote from the book)
There are some surprising twists and turns in this novel that made it unique. All looked to be headed in the right direction until outside forces start causing problems. Mr. Bennet is his most indolent self and Mr. Bingley was a surprise. Wickham in particular will leave you wanting to run him through with a sword! But through it all, Mr. Darcy was Elizabeth's sanctuary. He is at his finest.
January 27, 2020
Stunning. Absolutely stunning. No errors. Everyone should read this book. Except those allergic to mature themes, of course.
Big conflict of interest here since we have the same publisher for this book. But I'm great at being unbiased in my reviews.
Big conflict of interest here since we have the same publisher for this book. But I'm great at being unbiased in my reviews.
December 19, 2024
Heartfelt
What if Darcy doesn’t leave Hunsford before seeing Elizabeth again after she reads his letter? A very good storyline, what struck me most about this book was the heartfelt dialogue throughout. Preferring a read filled with more dialogue than narrative, this doesn’t disappoint. It gets very emotional towards the end of this well-written variation. I did miss an epilogue.
March 17-18, 2021 - Audiobook
The narration by Katherine is good, but I enjoy a narration with a bit more distinction/contrast among the characters.
What if Darcy doesn’t leave Hunsford before seeing Elizabeth again after she reads his letter? A very good storyline, what struck me most about this book was the heartfelt dialogue throughout. Preferring a read filled with more dialogue than narrative, this doesn’t disappoint. It gets very emotional towards the end of this well-written variation. I did miss an epilogue.
March 17-18, 2021 - Audiobook
The narration by Katherine is good, but I enjoy a narration with a bit more distinction/contrast among the characters.
January 19, 2020
What If Darcy and Elizabeth Encountered Each Other Soon After His First Proposal
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation, Mature Audience
TIME FRAME: Begins the day after Mr. Darcy’s first proposal
SYNOPSIS:
Despite their mutual desire to not encounter each other again, Darcy and Elizabeth unexpectedly meet during the gentlemen’s last call to Hunsford Parsonage. And since both Darcy and Elizabeth are already feeling some shame and regret for their actions and words, both endeavor to display a more civil manner towards each other. Which leads to some continued encounters while Elizabeth is in London. But what happens when the Bennet sisters return to Longbourn? Does their newfound understanding of each other lead to an earlier happily ever after? Or do other impediments threaten to steer this Pride and Prejudice tale off course?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Extended Encounters: Oh, I loved how Darcy and Elizabeth kept encountering each other post-Hunsford (who would want them to go many months without seeing each other, not me!) These meeting were sometimes fraught with awkwardness and consciousness, and sometimes they were tentative, sweet and full of adorable flirtyness! I fell in love with Darcy during his interactions with the Gardiner children and I just about swooned during the waltz scene! Also, I loved that Darcy was so fervently devoted to Elizabeth and impatient to see her again and took matters into his own hands…. *sigh*
- Elizabeth in Love: I loved the progression of Elizabeth falling in love in this story. She does so swiftly and powerfully. After spending more time with Mr. Darcy Elizabeth is quick to see his true worth and understand a bit of his standoffish reserve. I adored the moments where Elizabeth would go to Mr. Darcy and bravely be demonstrative with her feelings. And I greatly enjoyed observing the intensity of passion and attachment between Darcy and Elizabeth – how they take comfort in each other, how they are completely candid about their feelings. NOTE: This variation has some beautifully romantic intimate scenes that are best suited for mature audiences.
- Unexpected Drama: Halfway through the story, it seemed like everything was on course for the expected HEA, but that would be too easy, wouldn’t it? Even though some misunderstandings are cleared up there are some characters that can cause some turmoil! I really enjoyed the last third of this book where the drama kicked up a few notches, and how some slight alterations opened the door for some new developments to take place. These developments were surprising yet at the same time completely realistic and true to the Regency time period. I enjoyed exploring these new twists and I applaud Heather Moll for her creative choices and deft steering into these less familiar waters.
- Darcy in Love: At this point I must take time to profess how much I love Mr. Darcy in this story. I loved all his actions, his heartbreaking moments of uncertainty and defeat, his attempt at control and propriety, his determined efforts to protect and defend his love, and his overall swoon-worthy display of integrity and honor.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Some Pacing: Between the early events of the story and latter events there felt some occasional disjointedness and unevenness. I think maybe some tightening in the middle would help bridge the interesting beginning premise with the intense and surprising conclusion.
CONCLUSION:
His Choice of a Wife is an exquisitely-composed Pride and Prejudice variation filled with passion, tender scenes of devotion, perseverance, and satisfying character developments. Definitely one I recommend checking out! Congratulations, Heather Moll, on a marvelous debut!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation, Mature Audience
TIME FRAME: Begins the day after Mr. Darcy’s first proposal
SYNOPSIS:
Despite their mutual desire to not encounter each other again, Darcy and Elizabeth unexpectedly meet during the gentlemen’s last call to Hunsford Parsonage. And since both Darcy and Elizabeth are already feeling some shame and regret for their actions and words, both endeavor to display a more civil manner towards each other. Which leads to some continued encounters while Elizabeth is in London. But what happens when the Bennet sisters return to Longbourn? Does their newfound understanding of each other lead to an earlier happily ever after? Or do other impediments threaten to steer this Pride and Prejudice tale off course?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Extended Encounters: Oh, I loved how Darcy and Elizabeth kept encountering each other post-Hunsford (who would want them to go many months without seeing each other, not me!) These meeting were sometimes fraught with awkwardness and consciousness, and sometimes they were tentative, sweet and full of adorable flirtyness! I fell in love with Darcy during his interactions with the Gardiner children and I just about swooned during the waltz scene! Also, I loved that Darcy was so fervently devoted to Elizabeth and impatient to see her again and took matters into his own hands…. *sigh*
- Elizabeth in Love: I loved the progression of Elizabeth falling in love in this story. She does so swiftly and powerfully. After spending more time with Mr. Darcy Elizabeth is quick to see his true worth and understand a bit of his standoffish reserve. I adored the moments where Elizabeth would go to Mr. Darcy and bravely be demonstrative with her feelings. And I greatly enjoyed observing the intensity of passion and attachment between Darcy and Elizabeth – how they take comfort in each other, how they are completely candid about their feelings. NOTE: This variation has some beautifully romantic intimate scenes that are best suited for mature audiences.
- Unexpected Drama: Halfway through the story, it seemed like everything was on course for the expected HEA, but that would be too easy, wouldn’t it? Even though some misunderstandings are cleared up there are some characters that can cause some turmoil! I really enjoyed the last third of this book where the drama kicked up a few notches, and how some slight alterations opened the door for some new developments to take place. These developments were surprising yet at the same time completely realistic and true to the Regency time period. I enjoyed exploring these new twists and I applaud Heather Moll for her creative choices and deft steering into these less familiar waters.
- Darcy in Love: At this point I must take time to profess how much I love Mr. Darcy in this story. I loved all his actions, his heartbreaking moments of uncertainty and defeat, his attempt at control and propriety, his determined efforts to protect and defend his love, and his overall swoon-worthy display of integrity and honor.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Some Pacing: Between the early events of the story and latter events there felt some occasional disjointedness and unevenness. I think maybe some tightening in the middle would help bridge the interesting beginning premise with the intense and surprising conclusion.
CONCLUSION:
His Choice of a Wife is an exquisitely-composed Pride and Prejudice variation filled with passion, tender scenes of devotion, perseverance, and satisfying character developments. Definitely one I recommend checking out! Congratulations, Heather Moll, on a marvelous debut!
Austenesque Reviews
December 17, 2019
This book was good, but not great. There was a decent plot and a lot of good things, but several things that didn't ring true to me. My other struggle with this book is that it was much longer than it needed to be IMHO. It seemed to drag out a little too much in several places, especially at the end when the conflicts were resolved. I did enjoy it, it just didn't live up to my expectations.
March 6, 2020
What a book
Thank you so much for a book that continues the love story of Darcy and Elizabeth. It is truly the love story of all time. I have been reading all of the Pride and Prejudice variations and this one is one of the best. This is the first that I have commented on and I rate it a 5+
Thank you so much for a book that continues the love story of Darcy and Elizabeth. It is truly the love story of all time. I have been reading all of the Pride and Prejudice variations and this one is one of the best. This is the first that I have commented on and I rate it a 5+
November 6, 2023
What if Darcy had met Elizabeth in Hunsford after she had read his letter? Well, this is the beginning of His Choice of a Wife. Our dear couple is thrown together many months before canon and its consequences will alter many events in the story. First we have Darcy and Elizabeth starting their courtship in London and although they are both eager to be together, there are still many misunderstandings between them and it takes, especially Elizabeth, a little while to come to terms with all the feelings she is experiencing. And during this tumultuous beginning, Darcy is just wonderful, because he is so patient, steadfast and incredibly lovely with her. Throughout the whole book we see in all his actions and thoughts how much he loves Elizabeth and she returns his love equally. There are also some great scenes with Georgiana, especially in the beginning of the story, that are just wonderful. Colonel Fitzwilliam is also a very important character in this story and he proves how much Darcy can trust and depend on him.
There are also some changes in a few characters. Bingley is absolutely despicable. I really liked the resolution that the author gave to his and Jane's romance. Wickham and his dissolute ways have even more tragic consequences in the story. Mr Bennet is difficult to endure and his neglect and thoughtlessness concerning his family's welfare is appalling. Bingley, Mr Bennet and Wickham are contrasts to Darcy, since in this story he shines even more, taking a much more direct role in helping the Bennets.
But for me, the best part of this amazing book is Darcy and Elizabeth's enduring love. The way they come together, the strength of their devotion and love is a constant throughout the story, even when it seems like all is lost. They overcome so much and in the end, more than earn their happy ending. My only regret is that the story came to an end, but it was a very good ending, full of promises for Darcy and Elizabeth future together. I high recommend His Choice of a Wife
I received a free copy of this book.
There are also some changes in a few characters. Bingley is absolutely despicable. I really liked the resolution that the author gave to his and Jane's romance. Wickham and his dissolute ways have even more tragic consequences in the story. Mr Bennet is difficult to endure and his neglect and thoughtlessness concerning his family's welfare is appalling. Bingley, Mr Bennet and Wickham are contrasts to Darcy, since in this story he shines even more, taking a much more direct role in helping the Bennets.
But for me, the best part of this amazing book is Darcy and Elizabeth's enduring love. The way they come together, the strength of their devotion and love is a constant throughout the story, even when it seems like all is lost. They overcome so much and in the end, more than earn their happy ending. My only regret is that the story came to an end, but it was a very good ending, full of promises for Darcy and Elizabeth future together. I high recommend His Choice of a Wife
I received a free copy of this book.
February 22, 2021
Held my interest
... and that’s saying a lot. I liked the sexy parts and felt they were done well, so sweet tea readers and pearl-clutchers, this one, thankfully, isn’t for you.
Edits: this one didn’t hold up on a re-read (Feb 2021) I think when I originally read this I was just so damn happy not to read another prim little story where nothing messy happens. Upon re-reading I found a lot of it hot, a lot of it a mess, and plenty that is a hot mess. I lost the ability to suspend disbelief at how wacky Mrs Bennet was, (completely disconnected from reality- way beyond flighty and well into delusional.) Mr Bennet was also hard to believe. But yeah, the sexy bits are still that.
It lost a star down to three stars on a re-read but even that is just average for me as I rate most books three stars and save the four and five star reviews for books I really love.
... and that’s saying a lot. I liked the sexy parts and felt they were done well, so sweet tea readers and pearl-clutchers, this one, thankfully, isn’t for you.
Edits: this one didn’t hold up on a re-read (Feb 2021) I think when I originally read this I was just so damn happy not to read another prim little story where nothing messy happens. Upon re-reading I found a lot of it hot, a lot of it a mess, and plenty that is a hot mess. I lost the ability to suspend disbelief at how wacky Mrs Bennet was, (completely disconnected from reality- way beyond flighty and well into delusional.) Mr Bennet was also hard to believe. But yeah, the sexy bits are still that.
It lost a star down to three stars on a re-read but even that is just average for me as I rate most books three stars and save the four and five star reviews for books I really love.
April 25, 2024
When I discovered JAFF on KU in the summer of 2018, I thought I had a never ending supply and absolutely devoured every single variation that I could find and read through them very quickly. Apparently, I read this one in 2019 and in my re-read over the weekend I found that I absolutely didn't remember ANY of this book!
Anyway, loved this! Loved ODC's relationship - I do so love when they come together early and fight adversity together.
Anyway, loved this! Loved ODC's relationship - I do so love when they come together early and fight adversity together.
April 6, 2024
This book had me hooked quickly. Lots of drama! Loved it!
Reread: So hard to write these reviews without giving anything away that I only write snippets. So here it goes: I love this book. It has everything. Bingley!
Reread: So hard to write these reviews without giving anything away that I only write snippets. So here it goes: I love this book. It has everything. Bingley!
July 27, 2019
Wonderful!
A truly riveting story! This book has a permanent home in my "must read again" stash. Many thanks to the author.
A truly riveting story! This book has a permanent home in my "must read again" stash. Many thanks to the author.
November 3, 2023
An intensely romantic and carefully constructed variation
This is a deeply romantic novel, the passion steaming gently throughout and occasionally reaching boiling point. The conversations between Darcy and Elizabeth are sublime throughout; at times feisty and angry, at times tender and compassionate, at times delightfully wry and humour-filled.
Darcy is not the only man considering his choice of wife in this story, Bingley and Wickham both have choices to make. Mr Bennet also reflects a little on the choice he made more than 20 years earlier.
Mr Bennet is not pleasant in this variation. His arrogance and self-absorption are carefully explored in this book and Elizabeth has her eyes well and truly opened in relation to her father's weaknesses. Mrs Bennet is well-portrayed with both her weaknesses and her strengths skilfully described.
The second half of the book moves the reader steadily towards are remarkable and dramatic conclusion - no spoilers here, all I will say is "that second letter - oh my!".
There is some mature content but it is not explicit.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
This is a deeply romantic novel, the passion steaming gently throughout and occasionally reaching boiling point. The conversations between Darcy and Elizabeth are sublime throughout; at times feisty and angry, at times tender and compassionate, at times delightfully wry and humour-filled.
Darcy is not the only man considering his choice of wife in this story, Bingley and Wickham both have choices to make. Mr Bennet also reflects a little on the choice he made more than 20 years earlier.
Mr Bennet is not pleasant in this variation. His arrogance and self-absorption are carefully explored in this book and Elizabeth has her eyes well and truly opened in relation to her father's weaknesses. Mrs Bennet is well-portrayed with both her weaknesses and her strengths skilfully described.
The second half of the book moves the reader steadily towards are remarkable and dramatic conclusion - no spoilers here, all I will say is "that second letter - oh my!".
There is some mature content but it is not explicit.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
September 1, 2019
Such goings on...
I was not to far into this book before I realised that I had read it before. As I make a point of reviewing each story I read, I could not figure out how I had missed reviewing it and as I could not find when the story had been released for sale, I could only think that I had read it as a JAFF offering at a Happy Assembly.
The story is beautifully written and is full of romance, angst and villainy, the last in the form of an even more morally bankrupt, George Wickham. Mr Bennet too is shown in a far from flattering light. All other canon characters are much as you would remember them as they were created by the pen of Jane Austen.
Too much happens throughout the book for me to pick out highlights and as I do not want to give away any spoilers, I will only say that I do not think any potential buyer will be disappointed with His Choice of a Wife. So saying, I would caution any who do not approve of a story where bedroom activity (aside from sleep) features. Nothing too explicit, but such scenes do appear.
4 star recommendation.
I was not to far into this book before I realised that I had read it before. As I make a point of reviewing each story I read, I could not figure out how I had missed reviewing it and as I could not find when the story had been released for sale, I could only think that I had read it as a JAFF offering at a Happy Assembly.
The story is beautifully written and is full of romance, angst and villainy, the last in the form of an even more morally bankrupt, George Wickham. Mr Bennet too is shown in a far from flattering light. All other canon characters are much as you would remember them as they were created by the pen of Jane Austen.
Too much happens throughout the book for me to pick out highlights and as I do not want to give away any spoilers, I will only say that I do not think any potential buyer will be disappointed with His Choice of a Wife. So saying, I would caution any who do not approve of a story where bedroom activity (aside from sleep) features. Nothing too explicit, but such scenes do appear.
4 star recommendation.
October 27, 2019
Lovely variation of Pride and Prejudice
I loved reading this Pride and Prejudice variation. Darcy and Elizabeth show their passion much more in this variation. They sort their differences early but then then encounter many events and obstacles they overcome together. There were some lovely endearing scenes of the interaction between Darcy and Elizabeth. I also loved the style of writing. Looking forward to more stories from Heather Moll.
I loved reading this Pride and Prejudice variation. Darcy and Elizabeth show their passion much more in this variation. They sort their differences early but then then encounter many events and obstacles they overcome together. There were some lovely endearing scenes of the interaction between Darcy and Elizabeth. I also loved the style of writing. Looking forward to more stories from Heather Moll.
November 11, 2023
There is angst but most of it come from outside of ODC. Me Bennet is lazy and mean, Bingley is spineless, Caroline is nasty and this is one of the worst Wickhams I’ve come across. The last 1/3 of the story has the most angst as Darcy deals with the aftermath of Lydia and W’s elopement. There are a few pages of real sorrow for E but grab your hankie and plow through because the HEA is worth every breathless moment
January 22, 2024
A lovely well written story
I should have been reading something else but I was engeossed in this. It diverges from canon after Hunsford when Elizabeth happens to return from her letter reading stroll before the Colonel and Darcy got up and left. There is a quick courtship that ends in an engagement but that's when their troubles really begin, caused by the usual suspects.
I should have been reading something else but I was engeossed in this. It diverges from canon after Hunsford when Elizabeth happens to return from her letter reading stroll before the Colonel and Darcy got up and left. There is a quick courtship that ends in an engagement but that's when their troubles really begin, caused by the usual suspects.
May 29, 2023
Great non-canon story that I would read again.
Bingley is inconstant to poor Jane.
Darcy and Elizabeth have…ahem…behaved in a manner similarly to Lydia. The irony in their respective situations is interestingly told. Great aspect to the novel.
March 3, 2025
Honestly, for me personally only worth 3 stars.
First off, Elizabeth claims to ardently love Darcy and know him now and yet sometimes she willfully misunderstands him or thinks the worst of him? WHY? He was probably the best character in the book even with his usual flaws but he did never thought the worst of her or willfully misunderstood her. And Darcy stood by her even with Mr. Bennet's rudeness which by the way as a daughter I wouldn't have endured.
Mr. Bennet is already indolent in canon, but in this it's worse. He makes sports of everyone in canon, here he is downcast rude even to Elizabeth and his reasoning why he didn't approve of her marriage and was rude to Darcy and Elizabeth was non sense.
Now to Mrs Bennet, she seems even more silly than in canon. Nothing more to say on that score.
Mr. Bingley.. Let's just say, he wants to climb the social ladder and so he is feeble minded. Jane does not deserve a man like Bingley, even if there wouldn't have been a scandal. And that my Dear readers is what I think of him. (I don't like them together anyway. I'm probably the only one..)
Yep, you read correctly.. Scandal. The usual, Lydia/Wickham elopement except this time it dragged on for so long that I already wanted to DNF though it is well written. But dragging this scandal on is tiring. Lydia also gave herself to Wickham, kinda no wonder on that score in my opinion. BUT as we know ODC anticipated their vows, Elizabeth feels the need to scold with her. The hypocrisy.. Girl you're no virgin yourself either! Lydia thought themselves married. Just the same like Elizabeth, she thought herself already married. I didn't like Elizabeth in that instance, searching for excuses for her actions but scolding Lydia? This will not do.
I also wonder if jilting, and Lydia's elopement are much gossip in Meryton, didn't the town talk at all about ODC postponing their wedding so often?
It's good but not great. I much prefer 'An Affectionate Heart' by Ms Moll. (Probably one of my favorite Jaff)
As for the narration, it was well done and every character had a different voice which is honestly important for me. Male character sounded Male and Female character sounded Female. That was really well done.
First off, Elizabeth claims to ardently love Darcy and know him now and yet sometimes she willfully misunderstands him or thinks the worst of him? WHY? He was probably the best character in the book even with his usual flaws but he did never thought the worst of her or willfully misunderstood her. And Darcy stood by her even with Mr. Bennet's rudeness which by the way as a daughter I wouldn't have endured.
Mr. Bennet is already indolent in canon, but in this it's worse. He makes sports of everyone in canon, here he is downcast rude even to Elizabeth and his reasoning why he didn't approve of her marriage and was rude to Darcy and Elizabeth was non sense.
Now to Mrs Bennet, she seems even more silly than in canon. Nothing more to say on that score.
Mr. Bingley.. Let's just say, he wants to climb the social ladder and so he is feeble minded. Jane does not deserve a man like Bingley, even if there wouldn't have been a scandal. And that my Dear readers is what I think of him. (I don't like them together anyway. I'm probably the only one..)
Yep, you read correctly.. Scandal. The usual, Lydia/Wickham elopement except this time it dragged on for so long that I already wanted to DNF though it is well written. But dragging this scandal on is tiring. Lydia also gave herself to Wickham, kinda no wonder on that score in my opinion. BUT as we know ODC anticipated their vows, Elizabeth feels the need to scold with her. The hypocrisy.. Girl you're no virgin yourself either! Lydia thought themselves married. Just the same like Elizabeth, she thought herself already married. I didn't like Elizabeth in that instance, searching for excuses for her actions but scolding Lydia? This will not do.
I also wonder if jilting, and Lydia's elopement are much gossip in Meryton, didn't the town talk at all about ODC postponing their wedding so often?
It's good but not great. I much prefer 'An Affectionate Heart' by Ms Moll. (Probably one of my favorite Jaff)
As for the narration, it was well done and every character had a different voice which is honestly important for me. Male character sounded Male and Female character sounded Female. That was really well done.
November 30, 2019
I read this book in Kindle unlimited as well. I liked the comments so I gave it a go. It was a great decision. In this book, Darcy has proposed disastrously to Elizabeth and she has reject him just as in canon, he has given her THE letter and she has come to know how blinded she has been in regards to Mr Wickham. She comes back from her walk when Darcy and Col. Fitzwilliam are in the parsonage to say farewell to the Collinses. This gives them a chance to clear a bit the air between them, especially when Elizabeth really regrets to have rejected Mr Darcy in such strong manner and Mr Darcy regrets to have insulted her family. They are still a bit mad on each other but they are able to talk and Mr Darcy offers to take Elizabeth's letters to her sister in Cheapside in London, so Darcy shows her immediately that he wants to change his haughty ways and wants to improve himself for her. That makes for a good base for future understanding. They meet in London after she leaves Hunsford and he asks if he can court her in Hertfordshire so they start a sort of relationship.
However, not everything is smooth. Darcy proposes to her again and she says yes, and there is some time before they tell other people that they are engaged but Mr Bennet is very stubborn, offensive and self centred and doesn't like Darcy at all, so he gives his consent but not his blessing to their marriage. In the meantime their love grows and their passion for each other develops and sort of gets out of control so...
Spoiler alert:
They anticipate their vows, but it is not very explicit and it's rather sweet... but it will be a problem in some weeks...
So, to not spoil too much, Wickham is even wicker than in canon, he gets his revenge and Lydia does not come out of it unharmed, but it comes as a wake up call for her. At least Wickham gets his due in time quite unexpectedly.
Spoiler: Bingley has no backbone whatsoever and he is awful, I'm just sorry for Jane but he doesn't deserve her. Though at one point he is willing to help, he is totally a part of his family, just like his sisters. Suffice to say that at the first sign of trouble he runs like a rat overboard. Good for Jane though, she gets a good HEA with a more constant man with a backbone in place.
Darcy is very brave and is able and willing to help Elizabeth's family through their trials even risking his reputation and a bit more, though delaying their wedding, making the readers a bit nervous for Elizabeth and what has already happened between them...will there be consequences?
It is a very sweet and passionate read, I really felt the characters in this book, I felt the love and respect between Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam, and the loyalty she holds for him. As the difficulties unfold, Elizabeth is able to see time and time again the worth of the man she has given her heart to. Darcy certainly does not disappoint. Great book! I'm just discounting one star or maybe half because I would have liked to give more of a closure to Lydia and also a slower development of Jane's HEA. I understand the book is about ODC but I felt that Jane's end was a little bit too fast, after all she had to suffer. I would have liked it to last a bit longer and maybe show more of her relationship and newfound trust in men, or in this particular man. The book is well written and I can't remember any mistakes. I recommend this book very much!
However, not everything is smooth. Darcy proposes to her again and she says yes, and there is some time before they tell other people that they are engaged but Mr Bennet is very stubborn, offensive and self centred and doesn't like Darcy at all, so he gives his consent but not his blessing to their marriage. In the meantime their love grows and their passion for each other develops and sort of gets out of control so...
Spoiler alert:
They anticipate their vows, but it is not very explicit and it's rather sweet... but it will be a problem in some weeks...
So, to not spoil too much, Wickham is even wicker than in canon, he gets his revenge and Lydia does not come out of it unharmed, but it comes as a wake up call for her. At least Wickham gets his due in time quite unexpectedly.
Spoiler: Bingley has no backbone whatsoever and he is awful, I'm just sorry for Jane but he doesn't deserve her. Though at one point he is willing to help, he is totally a part of his family, just like his sisters. Suffice to say that at the first sign of trouble he runs like a rat overboard. Good for Jane though, she gets a good HEA with a more constant man with a backbone in place.
Darcy is very brave and is able and willing to help Elizabeth's family through their trials even risking his reputation and a bit more, though delaying their wedding, making the readers a bit nervous for Elizabeth and what has already happened between them...will there be consequences?
It is a very sweet and passionate read, I really felt the characters in this book, I felt the love and respect between Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam, and the loyalty she holds for him. As the difficulties unfold, Elizabeth is able to see time and time again the worth of the man she has given her heart to. Darcy certainly does not disappoint. Great book! I'm just discounting one star or maybe half because I would have liked to give more of a closure to Lydia and also a slower development of Jane's HEA. I understand the book is about ODC but I felt that Jane's end was a little bit too fast, after all she had to suffer. I would have liked it to last a bit longer and maybe show more of her relationship and newfound trust in men, or in this particular man. The book is well written and I can't remember any mistakes. I recommend this book very much!
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April 10, 2022Elizabeth and Darcy anticipating their vows didn't feel right. Elizabeth would vacillate between seducing Darcy and being anxious that he would think less of her for it, almost like she had two personalities. It seemed highly improbable that the second interlude in the cottage would even happen given Lydia's unplanned pregnancy and the devastation that brought on the family. I got tired of Lizzy convincing herself and Darcy that they were in spirit 'married' and that they should feel no guilt for sleeping together. Then she would condemn Lydia for doing the same thing giving very feeble excuses as to how her and Darcy were different to Lydia and Wickham.
Mr. Bennett was truly abhorrent. The responsibility he let Darcy assume for fixing Lydia's problems really tested my patience with Mr. Bennett and even Elizabeth. Darcy went over and above for Lydia and instead of thanking him, Mr. Bennett and Elizabeth just accepted it like it was their due.
I felt too that Darcy, given his deeply ingrained loyalty to Elizabeth and by extension her family, should have cut Bingley right away. It felt inconsistent to his personality that he didn't.
I was so frustrated with this story.
Mr. Bennett was truly abhorrent. The responsibility he let Darcy assume for fixing Lydia's problems really tested my patience with Mr. Bennett and even Elizabeth. Darcy went over and above for Lydia and instead of thanking him, Mr. Bennett and Elizabeth just accepted it like it was their due.
I felt too that Darcy, given his deeply ingrained loyalty to Elizabeth and by extension her family, should have cut Bingley right away. It felt inconsistent to his personality that he didn't.
I was so frustrated with this story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2021
A cute read with some pretty lines.
Synopsis:
Lizzy returns to the Hunsford parsonage fresh from reading Darcy’s letter to find the Colonel and Darcy still present.
Darcy and Lizzy subtly indicate in conversation to each other their consternation for their behavior towards the other the previous night during Darcy’s proposal. Darcy offers to take any mail she has to Jane in London and they meet in the grove the next morning and make peace.
Lizzy on returning to London finds Darcy and Bingley had been calling on the Gardeners steadily and Darcy asks to continue to call on her in Longbourn. Lizzy is unsure, now she acknowledges she misunderstood him but doesn't know if she could love him and doesn't want to raise expectations.
Mr Bennet is a total jerk in this;
Poor Darcy goes through hell for Lizzy in this, he had to be crazy and in love to endure it but he is justly rewarded in the end.
Bingley is without any balls, just weak!
Lydia's situation is more dire than in canon
Darcy and Lizzy do anticipate vows, the scenes are steamy not explicit if that sweetens the pot
Wickham is a huge nuisance,
What I enjoyed:
-Lizzy learning the waltz with Georgiana and Darcy
-Lizzy and Darcy hilltop reunion
-Lizzy observing Darcy’s favorite color and getting him his cufflinks
-Lizzy and Darcy chemistry and their give and take dialogue;
-The dialogue was on character, memorable and charming;
What Displeased Me:
It’s a bit boring at times.I actually started reading it nigh a month ago but I got bored about a couple chapters in and put it down.
I like to finish a book so I can review it so, with some gentle coaxing from brandy to aide my powering through a particularly dull chapter, it got once again engaging and sweet! Thanks alcohol!
Conclusion:
It had its moments, both romantic and boring, I have mixed feelings indeed.
There were some charming scenes and lines, is well written and even managed to have me at the edge of my seat towards the climax, thus it deserves a 4, but I would be unlikely to reread.
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?Yes
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?Sometimes
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? For the most part
“as I told you that spring day, you always tempt me.”
“And shall I in the winter of our days?”
“In every season, Elizabeth. Surely you know that I admire your roots even more than your blossoms.”
Synopsis:
Lizzy returns to the Hunsford parsonage fresh from reading Darcy’s letter to find the Colonel and Darcy still present.
Darcy and Lizzy subtly indicate in conversation to each other their consternation for their behavior towards the other the previous night during Darcy’s proposal. Darcy offers to take any mail she has to Jane in London and they meet in the grove the next morning and make peace.
Lizzy on returning to London finds Darcy and Bingley had been calling on the Gardeners steadily and Darcy asks to continue to call on her in Longbourn. Lizzy is unsure, now she acknowledges she misunderstood him but doesn't know if she could love him and doesn't want to raise expectations.
Mr Bennet is a total jerk in this;
“No, Papa, I admire his taste and his abilities. When Mr. Darcy returns, I hope you take the opportunity to know him.”
“The fools with whom you suffer to pass your time are of no interest to me.”
Poor Darcy goes through hell for Lizzy in this, he had to be crazy and in love to endure it but he is justly rewarded in the end.
Darcy shook his head. “Elizabeth, you must have prayed for me to be punished for my thoughtlessness after that assembly,” he said. “You have been duly avenged. I am certain that I shall always find you to be handsome enough to tempt me.”
Bingley is without any balls, just weak!
Lydia's situation is more dire than in canon
Darcy and Lizzy do anticipate vows, the scenes are steamy not explicit if that sweetens the pot
Wickham is a huge nuisance,
What I enjoyed:
-Lizzy learning the waltz with Georgiana and Darcy
-Lizzy and Darcy hilltop reunion
-Lizzy observing Darcy’s favorite color and getting him his cufflinks
-Lizzy and Darcy chemistry and their give and take dialogue;
“And if I had not a letter to write myself, I might sit by you and admire the evenness of your writing, as Miss Bingley once did.”
Fitzwilliam asked her to send his greetings to Mrs. Gardiner and to tell the lady that he would call while conducting his business in town. He then admired the evenness of her lines; she knew what he was doing and tried not to laugh. He does not appear disapproving, but perhaps that is only because we are not alone. Elizabeth completed her letter and set her writing tools aside.
“Do you need me to mend your pen? I mend pens exceedingly well.”
“Only if you rewrite your letter to Georgiana to include my compliments and questions about how she gets on.”
“I think not.”
-The dialogue was on character, memorable and charming;
“Yes, I shall make sure Georgiana marries the most vain, self-absorbed, cash-strapped, widowed baronet who comes to call her first Season. Pemberley will be bankrupt in two generations, fear not.”
What Displeased Me:
It’s a bit boring at times.I actually started reading it nigh a month ago but I got bored about a couple chapters in and put it down.
I like to finish a book so I can review it so, with some gentle coaxing from brandy to aide my powering through a particularly dull chapter, it got once again engaging and sweet! Thanks alcohol!
Conclusion:
It had its moments, both romantic and boring, I have mixed feelings indeed.
There were some charming scenes and lines, is well written and even managed to have me at the edge of my seat towards the climax, thus it deserves a 4, but I would be unlikely to reread.
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?Yes
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?Sometimes
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? For the most part
December 27, 2025
After his disastrous proposal in Hunsford and Darcy's letter Elizabeth understands, that she has misjudged Darcy a great deal. The gentleman on his part realizes that not all of his actions were right and just, and tries to alter his behaviour to show the lady that he is not as bad as she thinks him to be. Both tentatively reach out to make amends for their behaviour and reach an understanding. But their young love is soon put to the test when Lydia's visit to Brighton nearly ends in tragedy and evokes a scandal. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles laid in their path? Will their love have a chance to blossom to full bloom?
Wow - this re-released book of Heather Moll left me content of having read a really exceptional book. I loved every second of it. It was both heartwarming and breathtaking.
After having discovered that they have misjudged each other, Darcy and Elizabeth soon reach an understanding and share a strong and passionate love. I like how they interact with each other. They nevertheless have their misunderstanding, especially at the beginning of their relationship, but they try to solve it by talking to each other, asking the other what was wrong or simply thinking before acting. I love that, every day, their love grows stronger and they become closer and closer. They share so many wonderful moments full of love with each other in the book, for example their dance of a waltz.
I like it very much that Darcy, at no time, is willing to give up his relationship with Elizabeth. Elizabeth on her part is first afraid of her feelings for Darcy and tries to fight them but when she is ready to admit her feelings she is as steadfast as Darcy. I like that she, in this process, discovers, that her loyalty is with Darcy and not with her family.
There was one person in the book I really don't like. Mr. Bennet is a real obstacle for Darcy and Elizabeth and, in this version, he is more lethargic than ever to do other things than spending time in his study reading. It is therefore no surprise that his inaction encouraged Lydia's behaviour in Brighton and the scandal it causes.
The book also contains an exciting chase after Lydia and all that develops in the aftermath is really exciting, too. I really like how Heather Moll constructed the chapters, especially in the end. There were often flashbacks thus the reader needs to endure the exciting scenes even longer. That was brilliantly done.
If you like a steadfast love between Darcy and Elizabeth and exciting scenes around Lydia's elopement you should definitely read this book.
I highly recommend this book. It contains scenes for mature audiences and some violence and angst.
I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wow - this re-released book of Heather Moll left me content of having read a really exceptional book. I loved every second of it. It was both heartwarming and breathtaking.
After having discovered that they have misjudged each other, Darcy and Elizabeth soon reach an understanding and share a strong and passionate love. I like how they interact with each other. They nevertheless have their misunderstanding, especially at the beginning of their relationship, but they try to solve it by talking to each other, asking the other what was wrong or simply thinking before acting. I love that, every day, their love grows stronger and they become closer and closer. They share so many wonderful moments full of love with each other in the book, for example their dance of a waltz.
I like it very much that Darcy, at no time, is willing to give up his relationship with Elizabeth. Elizabeth on her part is first afraid of her feelings for Darcy and tries to fight them but when she is ready to admit her feelings she is as steadfast as Darcy. I like that she, in this process, discovers, that her loyalty is with Darcy and not with her family.
There was one person in the book I really don't like. Mr. Bennet is a real obstacle for Darcy and Elizabeth and, in this version, he is more lethargic than ever to do other things than spending time in his study reading. It is therefore no surprise that his inaction encouraged Lydia's behaviour in Brighton and the scandal it causes.
The book also contains an exciting chase after Lydia and all that develops in the aftermath is really exciting, too. I really like how Heather Moll constructed the chapters, especially in the end. There were often flashbacks thus the reader needs to endure the exciting scenes even longer. That was brilliantly done.
If you like a steadfast love between Darcy and Elizabeth and exciting scenes around Lydia's elopement you should definitely read this book.
I highly recommend this book. It contains scenes for mature audiences and some violence and angst.
I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 28, 2020
I fell in love with this version! Feeling extreme difficulty at the beginning of reading, since the pronoun "he" is using many, on each page must have "it" at least a five times, often used unnecessaryly, and so I hardly proceed with reading. But I do not regret, after the first two chapters the reading flow perfectly.
In this version feel an above-normal irritation by Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Bennet. Two foolish, reckless people, the disregard for the welfare of their daughters in this version gave me a headache.
Darcy and Elizabeth are out of character, but I would say that they are only 50% OC, I feel that the author knew how to dose a half measure so that the characters had much of the essence that Jane Austen was careful to explore, and explored the two in a clearly more mature way and a mondo that jane austen herself would hardly do, because it would be a scan for the time. In this version, Darcy and Elizabeth super involved with each other, consummate the marriage while engaged, it may be that for most Jane Austen fans this this a step of rebuke.
The case of Lydia's escape is explored and in this version things happen in a much worse way, including the repercussion of her irresponsibility is catastrophic for the Bennet form, and who suffers most in the midst of this chaos is Jane. The consequences for her is heartbreaking, but I feel that the author got it right, at least it was something predicted, throughout history we saw that clues left so it didn't surprise me. But it was brave, I can see that Jane Austen herself left clues, and messages between the lines that a version with the facts in this book explored could be valid and so I fell in love with this version.
In this version feel an above-normal irritation by Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Bennet. Two foolish, reckless people, the disregard for the welfare of their daughters in this version gave me a headache.
Darcy and Elizabeth are out of character, but I would say that they are only 50% OC, I feel that the author knew how to dose a half measure so that the characters had much of the essence that Jane Austen was careful to explore, and explored the two in a clearly more mature way and a mondo that jane austen herself would hardly do, because it would be a scan for the time. In this version, Darcy and Elizabeth super involved with each other, consummate the marriage while engaged, it may be that for most Jane Austen fans this this a step of rebuke.
The case of Lydia's escape is explored and in this version things happen in a much worse way, including the repercussion of her irresponsibility is catastrophic for the Bennet form, and who suffers most in the midst of this chaos is Jane. The consequences for her is heartbreaking, but I feel that the author got it right, at least it was something predicted, throughout history we saw that clues left so it didn't surprise me. But it was brave, I can see that Jane Austen herself left clues, and messages between the lines that a version with the facts in this book explored could be valid and so I fell in love with this version.
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