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Only Exceedingly Shy
Disheartened and convinced by Elizabeth’s assertion of Miss Bingley’s character, Jane Bennet insists Elizabeth return to London with the Gardiners after Christmas to provide her with a reprieve from their mother, who has not accepted Elizabeth’s rejection of Mr. Collins’s suit.What Elizabeth could never have imagined was her chance meeting with Mr. Darcy in London, and even more shocking is his request to introduce her to his sister, Miss Georgiana Darcy. When Elizabeth agrees, she makes the young heiress’s acquaintance, immediately understanding Miss Darcy’s crippling shyness and her low spirits.Amid her interactions with Miss Darcy, Elizabeth learns another astonishing fact, that Mr. Darcy looks at her with the eyes of a suitor. Though Elizabeth’s world is turned upside down, she learns there is more to Mr. Darcy than she ever thought. She also learns to be wary of the claims of a man who took advantage of her initial dislike for the gentleman.With her usual fortitude, Elizabeth navigates these shoals, determined to provide friendship to a young girl, learn more about the increasingly intriguing Mr. Darcy, and discover the truth about Mr. Bingley’s abandonment of her sister.
178 pages, Hardcover
Published November 17, 2023
127 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
About the author
Jann Rowland
87 books192 followersJann Rowland is a Canadian, born and bred. Other than a two-year span in which he lived in Japan, he has been a resident of the Great White North his entire life, though he professes to still hate the winters.
Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OneGoodSonnetPub...
Twitter: @OneGoodSonnet
Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bol2p9
Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OneGoodSonnetPub...
Twitter: @OneGoodSonnet
Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bol2p9
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
March 22, 2024
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars. 216 pages on my Kindle for PC. The ending was abrupt and not at all pleasing for me.
For me there was no angst in this story. As we are told in the blurb, Elizabeth goes to visit with the Gardiners mostly to escape her mother's constant complaints about Elizabeth turning down Collins. There, during a walk in a nearby park, she and Darcy chance upon each other. Darcy asks to be allowed to introduce Elizabeth to his sister, hoping E. will help Georgiana overcome her extreme depression and shyness due to the "Wickham affair".
That friendship develops quickly and in addition Darcy and Elizabeth come to know each other better. Elizabeth soon learns she is mistaken about several opinions she has about Darcy, even coming to doubt Wickham's assertions. While Darcy sees hope renewing that Elizabeth might agree to a courtship.
I like this author's stories and have read over 2 dozen of those. This was a sweet romance with no surprises, IMHO.
For me there was no angst in this story. As we are told in the blurb, Elizabeth goes to visit with the Gardiners mostly to escape her mother's constant complaints about Elizabeth turning down Collins. There, during a walk in a nearby park, she and Darcy chance upon each other. Darcy asks to be allowed to introduce Elizabeth to his sister, hoping E. will help Georgiana overcome her extreme depression and shyness due to the "Wickham affair".
That friendship develops quickly and in addition Darcy and Elizabeth come to know each other better. Elizabeth soon learns she is mistaken about several opinions she has about Darcy, even coming to doubt Wickham's assertions. While Darcy sees hope renewing that Elizabeth might agree to a courtship.
I like this author's stories and have read over 2 dozen of those. This was a sweet romance with no surprises, IMHO.
August 11, 2024
When one choice takes you down a different path
After Bingley departs and Elizabeth refuses Collins, Jane suggests Elizabeth return to London with the Gardiners. Mrs. Bennet was making everyone uncomfortable.
That puts Elizabeth in the right place, right time, when Darcy visits his man of Business.
Inspired both by his admiration for her and his concern for Georgiana a plan is created to bring the two together.
Over the weeks affections grow across the board. Situations and misapprehensions are clarified, leading to happy meetings of minds and hearts.
A sweet, almost no angst, story, yet I enjoyed this very much.
Contrary to this author's several previous publications, the language and writing in this story flowed. Gone are the many repetitive phrases, which had bogged down his writing style in the past and hampered reader's enjoyment.
My understanding is an audiobook will be available some time in 2024. I have a credit set aside just for this! Well done.
After Bingley departs and Elizabeth refuses Collins, Jane suggests Elizabeth return to London with the Gardiners. Mrs. Bennet was making everyone uncomfortable.
That puts Elizabeth in the right place, right time, when Darcy visits his man of Business.
Inspired both by his admiration for her and his concern for Georgiana a plan is created to bring the two together.
Over the weeks affections grow across the board. Situations and misapprehensions are clarified, leading to happy meetings of minds and hearts.
A sweet, almost no angst, story, yet I enjoyed this very much.
Contrary to this author's several previous publications, the language and writing in this story flowed. Gone are the many repetitive phrases, which had bogged down his writing style in the past and hampered reader's enjoyment.
My understanding is an audiobook will be available some time in 2024. I have a credit set aside just for this! Well done.
July 27, 2024
A twist in the classic story leads to a Pride & Prejudice variation story set against the backdrop of Regency London and puts a vulnerable, shy young lady at the heart of matters. I’ve enjoyed a handful of Jann Rowland’s heartwarming, low-angst Austenesque romances and I was particularly eager when I saw that a favorite narrator, Harry Frost was telling this one.
Only Exceedingly Shy begins when beleaguered Elizabeth Bennet wants any escape from her harping mother after she refused the marriage offer from their silly, simpering cousin, Mr. Collins. Her older sister was meant to leave after Christmas to stay with their aunt and uncle in London, and Lizzy wanted Jane to go for the chance of encountering the recently departed Mr. Bingley. But, Jane has had time to reflect and has decided that if Mr. Bingley really cared, he wouldn’t have left- family and friends’ interference or not. So, she insists Elizabeth go in her stead.
And, lo and behold, Elizabeth encounters the austere Mr. Darcy whom she is convinced can only look on her with snobbish disgust. Only, Mr. Darcy surprises her. Her aunt and even Jane warned Lizzy earlier that she might not have all the facts and might not be seeing Mr. Darcy’s character as clearly as she thought. Now, the man himself isn’t acting as the proud, distant, and disdainful creator she painted him to be in her mind. He is a caring and tender brother, he’s polite and respectful to her relations in trade and solicitous of her. But what of his role in ruining Wickham and separating Jane and Bingley? Was she perhaps wrong about those heavy accusations, too?
Only Exceedingly Shy is a slowburn sweet historical romance that gradually goes from a woman nearly hating a man to learning his true nature, respect, friendship, and then love. Both Elizabeth and Darcy share the narration. I liked how Georgiana’s sad story and need of a friend was what brought her brother and her new friend to really see each other.
The story does drag a bit for me in the last part. I felt Elizabeth had ample evidence to see she had the guy pegged wrong long before she was quite willing to believe it. And, she held out on love well past the due date, too. Too give her credit, she wasn’t obnoxious about either, merely extremely hesitant and cautious. The Caroline Bingley character who attempted to stir up trouble and had her ambitions set on marrying the wealthy and high-placed Darcy was over the top and got annoying. Would someone just use the equivalent of Regency duct tape, please?
I would have liked a more thorough wrap up particularly following the Georgiana side character to see her doing well after everything. There was no actual incompletion, but just me greedy for more.
Only Exceedingly Shy was sweet and swoony and left me feeling well-satisfied. I don’t think one absolutely needs to have read P&P prior to this one and could simply enjoy it as an engaging sweet historical romance, but it will likely appeal to Jane Austen fans most of all.
I really enjoyed listening to Harry Frost’s talented voicing of all the characters, grasp of tone and pacing, and overall solid storytelling.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 7.24.24
#JIAM Mini Challenge
Only Exceedingly Shy begins when beleaguered Elizabeth Bennet wants any escape from her harping mother after she refused the marriage offer from their silly, simpering cousin, Mr. Collins. Her older sister was meant to leave after Christmas to stay with their aunt and uncle in London, and Lizzy wanted Jane to go for the chance of encountering the recently departed Mr. Bingley. But, Jane has had time to reflect and has decided that if Mr. Bingley really cared, he wouldn’t have left- family and friends’ interference or not. So, she insists Elizabeth go in her stead.
And, lo and behold, Elizabeth encounters the austere Mr. Darcy whom she is convinced can only look on her with snobbish disgust. Only, Mr. Darcy surprises her. Her aunt and even Jane warned Lizzy earlier that she might not have all the facts and might not be seeing Mr. Darcy’s character as clearly as she thought. Now, the man himself isn’t acting as the proud, distant, and disdainful creator she painted him to be in her mind. He is a caring and tender brother, he’s polite and respectful to her relations in trade and solicitous of her. But what of his role in ruining Wickham and separating Jane and Bingley? Was she perhaps wrong about those heavy accusations, too?
Only Exceedingly Shy is a slowburn sweet historical romance that gradually goes from a woman nearly hating a man to learning his true nature, respect, friendship, and then love. Both Elizabeth and Darcy share the narration. I liked how Georgiana’s sad story and need of a friend was what brought her brother and her new friend to really see each other.
The story does drag a bit for me in the last part. I felt Elizabeth had ample evidence to see she had the guy pegged wrong long before she was quite willing to believe it. And, she held out on love well past the due date, too. Too give her credit, she wasn’t obnoxious about either, merely extremely hesitant and cautious. The Caroline Bingley character who attempted to stir up trouble and had her ambitions set on marrying the wealthy and high-placed Darcy was over the top and got annoying. Would someone just use the equivalent of Regency duct tape, please?
I would have liked a more thorough wrap up particularly following the Georgiana side character to see her doing well after everything. There was no actual incompletion, but just me greedy for more.
Only Exceedingly Shy was sweet and swoony and left me feeling well-satisfied. I don’t think one absolutely needs to have read P&P prior to this one and could simply enjoy it as an engaging sweet historical romance, but it will likely appeal to Jane Austen fans most of all.
I really enjoyed listening to Harry Frost’s talented voicing of all the characters, grasp of tone and pacing, and overall solid storytelling.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 7.24.24
#JIAM Mini Challenge
December 3, 2023
Ack, awful ending
SPOILERS FOLLOW
This an almost a 4 star story. Basically Darcy wooing Lizzy. Pleasant enough but a one note piece of music. But at the very end when Lizzy decides she might be in love after acting like a puppeteer the story just ends. No epilogue, no loose ends, no marriage no kiss.
Only ok really.
SPOILERS FOLLOW
This an almost a 4 star story. Basically Darcy wooing Lizzy. Pleasant enough but a one note piece of music. But at the very end when Lizzy decides she might be in love after acting like a puppeteer the story just ends. No epilogue, no loose ends, no marriage no kiss.
Only ok really.
December 14, 2023
Entertaining
After the Netherfield ball, and after Darcy and the Bingleys abandon Netherfield, Jane Bennett is despondent after reading the malicious farewell letter from Caroline Bingley. Elizabeth, meanwhile, refuses Mr Collins, and Mrs Bennett harasses Elizabeth until she decides to go to London with the Gardiners after Christmas. In London Darcy is dealing with an extremely depressed Georgiana, who has become almost a recluse, and he's at his wit's end with how to reach her. Darcy encounters Elizabeth unexpectedly in a park near Cheapside, and makes a quick decision to enlist Elizabeth's help with his sister. Elizabeth agrees, and so begins much intercourse between Darcy House and the Gardiner residence.
This author is an automatic purchase for me. Although I've enjoyed many of his works, this one was just a little more bland than his usual fare. Of course Elizabeth is the answer to the prayers of Georgiana's family, and she manages to coax Georgiana into more confidence and higher spirits. Darcy, as usual, starts out resisting his strong attraction to Elizabeth, and Elizabeth starts out with no very good opinion of him. In this version, there's almost no angst, no contention, and no villains that ever have a chance of causing problems.
One side note: much was made of Jane's attitude towards Bingley after he leaves without a farewell. Both Jane and Mrs Gardiner agree, as does Elizabeth eventually, that if Bingley didn't have backbone enough to withstand the persuasion of his sisters, Jane was probably better off without him. Yet, all of those opinions are ignored when a reunion becomes possible. I just had to wonder about that. Bingley is never even taken to task for his desertion and Jane's heartbreak.
The book is well written, and although there are a fair number of editing errors, it didn't disrupt the flow of the story. Mr Rowland is a master storyteller, and I recommend this book as an interesting and enjoyable way to pass some time.
After the Netherfield ball, and after Darcy and the Bingleys abandon Netherfield, Jane Bennett is despondent after reading the malicious farewell letter from Caroline Bingley. Elizabeth, meanwhile, refuses Mr Collins, and Mrs Bennett harasses Elizabeth until she decides to go to London with the Gardiners after Christmas. In London Darcy is dealing with an extremely depressed Georgiana, who has become almost a recluse, and he's at his wit's end with how to reach her. Darcy encounters Elizabeth unexpectedly in a park near Cheapside, and makes a quick decision to enlist Elizabeth's help with his sister. Elizabeth agrees, and so begins much intercourse between Darcy House and the Gardiner residence.
This author is an automatic purchase for me. Although I've enjoyed many of his works, this one was just a little more bland than his usual fare. Of course Elizabeth is the answer to the prayers of Georgiana's family, and she manages to coax Georgiana into more confidence and higher spirits. Darcy, as usual, starts out resisting his strong attraction to Elizabeth, and Elizabeth starts out with no very good opinion of him. In this version, there's almost no angst, no contention, and no villains that ever have a chance of causing problems.
One side note: much was made of Jane's attitude towards Bingley after he leaves without a farewell. Both Jane and Mrs Gardiner agree, as does Elizabeth eventually, that if Bingley didn't have backbone enough to withstand the persuasion of his sisters, Jane was probably better off without him. Yet, all of those opinions are ignored when a reunion becomes possible. I just had to wonder about that. Bingley is never even taken to task for his desertion and Jane's heartbreak.
The book is well written, and although there are a fair number of editing errors, it didn't disrupt the flow of the story. Mr Rowland is a master storyteller, and I recommend this book as an interesting and enjoyable way to pass some time.
April 10, 2024
Felt Incomplete
This review is for the audiobook version.
The story was enjoyable—a sweet, zero angst listen. I liked Aunt Gardiner’s subtle but firm cautionary advice for Elizabeth not judging Darcy too harshly while he was in Meryton while she could not know all the possible reasons behind his behaviour. Elizabeth befriends Georgiana at the behest of Darcy, who accidentally meets Elizabeth in London following the departure of the Netherfield party in Hertfordshire. The writing was good, but the story was a bit anti-climactic with a very abrupt ending which left the story feeling incomplete.
I am still very happy to recommend Harry Frost’s flawless narration and performance which made up for the story’s lack of perfection.
Harry Frost is an auto-buy narrator in this genre for me. Five stars for Harry, four stars for the story.
This review is for the audiobook version.
The story was enjoyable—a sweet, zero angst listen. I liked Aunt Gardiner’s subtle but firm cautionary advice for Elizabeth not judging Darcy too harshly while he was in Meryton while she could not know all the possible reasons behind his behaviour. Elizabeth befriends Georgiana at the behest of Darcy, who accidentally meets Elizabeth in London following the departure of the Netherfield party in Hertfordshire. The writing was good, but the story was a bit anti-climactic with a very abrupt ending which left the story feeling incomplete.
I am still very happy to recommend Harry Frost’s flawless narration and performance which made up for the story’s lack of perfection.
Harry Frost is an auto-buy narrator in this genre for me. Five stars for Harry, four stars for the story.
November 20, 2023
No angst and very little romance. This is more a story about the friendship between Elizabeth and Georgiana which didn’t interest me as much as I’d hoped it would. I’ve read other books with a similar premise that seemed to give something more than what u read here
February 10, 2025
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: Appropriate
>>Angst Level: Not too bad
>>Source: I borrowed this from KU 1-11-25 and volunteered to leave a review. 15 chapters.
Mrs. Bennet was not a happy camper. When she wasn’t happy, no one was happy. Elizabeth had refused Mr. Collins’ offer of marriage and Mrs. Bennet would never forgive her. The final straw was when Collins chose Charlotte Lucas over one of her daughters. Jane finally told Elizabeth she should return to London with their Gardiner relatives. Elizabeth decided to take her sister's advice. After Uncle and Aunt Gardiner saw how Mrs. Bennet treated Elizabeth, they agreed it was for the best.
In London Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam were dealing with a devastated Georgiana after Ramsgate. She would hardly leave her room. She could not look them in the eye and they were at a loss how they could help the young girl. What did two bachelors know about the angst of young girls? Darcy met Miss Elizabeth in the park and knew she would be the perfect person to handle his sister. She had three younger sisters and would know the workings of a young girl’s mind. Little did Darcy know that their lives would change after that fateful meeting. I adored how Elizabeth helped a devastated young girl restore her emotional balance.
>>Rating: Appropriate
>>Angst Level: Not too bad
>>Source: I borrowed this from KU 1-11-25 and volunteered to leave a review. 15 chapters.
Mrs. Bennet was not a happy camper. When she wasn’t happy, no one was happy. Elizabeth had refused Mr. Collins’ offer of marriage and Mrs. Bennet would never forgive her. The final straw was when Collins chose Charlotte Lucas over one of her daughters. Jane finally told Elizabeth she should return to London with their Gardiner relatives. Elizabeth decided to take her sister's advice. After Uncle and Aunt Gardiner saw how Mrs. Bennet treated Elizabeth, they agreed it was for the best.
In London Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam were dealing with a devastated Georgiana after Ramsgate. She would hardly leave her room. She could not look them in the eye and they were at a loss how they could help the young girl. What did two bachelors know about the angst of young girls? Darcy met Miss Elizabeth in the park and knew she would be the perfect person to handle his sister. She had three younger sisters and would know the workings of a young girl’s mind. Little did Darcy know that their lives would change after that fateful meeting. I adored how Elizabeth helped a devastated young girl restore her emotional balance.
December 7, 2023
Less is more
The majority of this story takes place in London, where Elizabeth has taken Jane's place with the Gardiners. Because of this, there is little interaction with the canon Meryton and Longbourn residents. Furthermore, the events here occur within 3 months. As a result, the storyline feels very intensively focused on Elizabeth's interactions and relation development with the two Darcys. I loved the emotional growth and understanding in these relationships. Well-written, but I felt that the story was truncated and ended rather abruptly. I would have liked to read more about this couple.
The majority of this story takes place in London, where Elizabeth has taken Jane's place with the Gardiners. Because of this, there is little interaction with the canon Meryton and Longbourn residents. Furthermore, the events here occur within 3 months. As a result, the storyline feels very intensively focused on Elizabeth's interactions and relation development with the two Darcys. I loved the emotional growth and understanding in these relationships. Well-written, but I felt that the story was truncated and ended rather abruptly. I would have liked to read more about this couple.
December 1, 2023
Too soon ended
Excellent storyline as always from this author, but the ending implied another installment would be forthcoming. This reader much prefers stand alone books unless the author clearly indicates the intention to continue with further books. This is the reason for the one star reduction.
Having Elizabeth be the one to go to London instead of Jane is an interesting way to present her changing knowledge about both Darcy and Wickham. The attention paid to Georgiana was a welcome inclusion.
Recommended with only the reservation concerning the incomplete conclusion.
Excellent storyline as always from this author, but the ending implied another installment would be forthcoming. This reader much prefers stand alone books unless the author clearly indicates the intention to continue with further books. This is the reason for the one star reduction.
Having Elizabeth be the one to go to London instead of Jane is an interesting way to present her changing knowledge about both Darcy and Wickham. The attention paid to Georgiana was a welcome inclusion.
Recommended with only the reservation concerning the incomplete conclusion.
April 21, 2024
Such a wonderful variation.....
I truly enjoyed this variation that focuses on the newly formed relationships of Elizabeth and Georgiana, keeping the romance of Darcy and Elizabeth as a subplot. This allows our dear Lizzy to begin to see Darcy's true character and have a better opinion of him.
While most readers see the Darcy/Lizzy romance as a main plot point, I personally enjoy reading variations where other characters take on a more prominent place in the story.
Since Jane is at Longbourn and Bingley is visiting in the north, their reconciliation happens toward the end of the book.
Wickham's demise is not at all prominent and happens quickly due to letters written to some inhabitants of Longbourn and the arrival of Col. Fitzwilliam in Meryton.
I have read some reviews that state an unhappiness of having no epilogue or the story ending "too quickly", this does not bother me.
I did enjoy the fact that Harry Frost narrates the audiobook as he has always seemed to capture the voice of the characters perfectly!!!! Especially Miss Bingley at her most hautiness.
I truly enjoyed this variation that focuses on the newly formed relationships of Elizabeth and Georgiana, keeping the romance of Darcy and Elizabeth as a subplot. This allows our dear Lizzy to begin to see Darcy's true character and have a better opinion of him.
While most readers see the Darcy/Lizzy romance as a main plot point, I personally enjoy reading variations where other characters take on a more prominent place in the story.
Since Jane is at Longbourn and Bingley is visiting in the north, their reconciliation happens toward the end of the book.
Wickham's demise is not at all prominent and happens quickly due to letters written to some inhabitants of Longbourn and the arrival of Col. Fitzwilliam in Meryton.
I have read some reviews that state an unhappiness of having no epilogue or the story ending "too quickly", this does not bother me.
I did enjoy the fact that Harry Frost narrates the audiobook as he has always seemed to capture the voice of the characters perfectly!!!! Especially Miss Bingley at her most hautiness.
March 2, 2024
A generous 3
I have avoided this author for some time now, and to be honest i have forgot the reason why so i decided to give him a chance. I've read 100's of variations and sequels and running out of good books so i said why not. First book and i don't get the high ratings.
Thie sorry was solid but boring. Sooo much time was spent on the Georgiana story. It was a Lizzy and Georgie story, not ODC. Their interactions were so boring that i think the book ended and there was still no love which explained they never Mentone their love. Not once did Elizabeth even think that she loved Darcy. Such a disappointment. They're was no chemistry much less the passionate couple that Austin speaks of. Lizzy has no wit except for a little bit of smack talk with Caroline on the last 2 pages. ODC had little to no conversation. I don't think I'll read this author again. I do not recommend.
I have avoided this author for some time now, and to be honest i have forgot the reason why so i decided to give him a chance. I've read 100's of variations and sequels and running out of good books so i said why not. First book and i don't get the high ratings.
Thie sorry was solid but boring. Sooo much time was spent on the Georgiana story. It was a Lizzy and Georgie story, not ODC. Their interactions were so boring that i think the book ended and there was still no love which explained they never Mentone their love. Not once did Elizabeth even think that she loved Darcy. Such a disappointment. They're was no chemistry much less the passionate couple that Austin speaks of. Lizzy has no wit except for a little bit of smack talk with Caroline on the last 2 pages. ODC had little to no conversation. I don't think I'll read this author again. I do not recommend.
November 30, 2023
lovely
Another delightful and low angst variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Jann Rowland. I enjoyed it.
Another delightful and low angst variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Jann Rowland. I enjoyed it.
December 3, 2023
Loved it. I felt the book ended abruptly but I still loved it.
December 3, 2025
So so so cute! I loved the relationship between Elizabeth and Georgiana they were so sweet. Darcy was very charming in this book, I particularly loved how he acknowledged all his errors, apologized and resolved the situation. The only complaint I have is that it ended very abruptly, I would have liked an epilogue
Read
May 1, 2024Only Exceedingly Boring!
This was narrated by Harry Frost, one of my favorites, and I still couldn’t get interested.
This was narrated by Harry Frost, one of my favorites, and I still couldn’t get interested.
August 11, 2024
The ever reliable Mr rowland strikes again.
Good story as usual very well written and interesting.
My only quibble is its imo very abrupt ending, l turned the to find " the end " I was a bit shocked.
Good story as usual very well written and interesting.
My only quibble is its imo very abrupt ending, l turned the to find " the end " I was a bit shocked.
January 6, 2025
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. Disheartened and convinced by Elizabeth’s assertion of Miss Bingley’s character, Jane Bennet insists Elizabeth return to London with the Gardiners after Christmas to provide her with a reprieve from their mother, who has not accepted Elizabeth’s rejection of Mr Collins’s suit. What Elizabeth could never have imagined was her chance meeting with Mr Darcy in London, and even more shocking is his request to introduce her to his sister, Miss Georgiana Darcy. When Elizabeth agrees, she makes the young heiress’s acquaintance, immediately understanding Miss Darcy’s crippling shyness and her low spirits, and amid her interactions with Miss Darcy, Elizabeth learns another astonishing fact, that Mr Darcy looks at her with the eyes of a suitor. Though Elizabeth’s world is turned upside down, she learns there is more to Mr Darcy than she ever thought, and she also learns to be wary of the claims of a man who took advantage of her initial dislike for the gentleman. With her usual fortitude, Elizabeth navigates these shoals, determined to provide friendship to a young girl, learn more about the increasingly intriguing Mr Darcy, and discover the truth about Mr Bingley’s abandonment of her sister. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
** My only negative is the abrupt ending with no epilogue, hence why I deducted the one star. **
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. Disheartened and convinced by Elizabeth’s assertion of Miss Bingley’s character, Jane Bennet insists Elizabeth return to London with the Gardiners after Christmas to provide her with a reprieve from their mother, who has not accepted Elizabeth’s rejection of Mr Collins’s suit. What Elizabeth could never have imagined was her chance meeting with Mr Darcy in London, and even more shocking is his request to introduce her to his sister, Miss Georgiana Darcy. When Elizabeth agrees, she makes the young heiress’s acquaintance, immediately understanding Miss Darcy’s crippling shyness and her low spirits, and amid her interactions with Miss Darcy, Elizabeth learns another astonishing fact, that Mr Darcy looks at her with the eyes of a suitor. Though Elizabeth’s world is turned upside down, she learns there is more to Mr Darcy than she ever thought, and she also learns to be wary of the claims of a man who took advantage of her initial dislike for the gentleman. With her usual fortitude, Elizabeth navigates these shoals, determined to provide friendship to a young girl, learn more about the increasingly intriguing Mr Darcy, and discover the truth about Mr Bingley’s abandonment of her sister. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
** My only negative is the abrupt ending with no epilogue, hence why I deducted the one star. **
November 18, 2023
This is a well-written no-angst story which departs from the canon after her cousin's proposal. Jane suggests that Elizabeth should go to London in her stead, to escape Mrs. Bennet's harangues. She accidentally meets Darcy who asks her to visit with his sister, who is still very shy and depressed. Reasonable friends and Georgiana's obvious shyness convince her that there is something off about Wickham's story. Everything proceeds smoothly with very little conflict or argument between the ODC, only a very slight bump in the road when she realizes that Darcy knew W was a cad but said nothing in Meryton.
The romantic climax falls a bit flat because at 90 % or so she's still not in love and would only accept a courtship. But then nothing much has changed for the reader by the time she hints she's ready to get engaged. They have had a number of amicable gatherings that are very briefly described, then there's a party in which Miss Bingley is obnoxious, and suddenly they're whispering of affection. Again, briefly described and the reader does not get to participate in her affection in her actual words. Miss Bingley is quite terrible and they should have banished her from their company when she first came to insult E at Darcy's house.
But you probably shouldn't get married just to spite Miss Bingley.
Steam level: Nope.
The romantic climax falls a bit flat because at 90 % or so she's still not in love and would only accept a courtship. But then nothing much has changed for the reader by the time she hints she's ready to get engaged. They have had a number of amicable gatherings that are very briefly described, then there's a party in which Miss Bingley is obnoxious, and suddenly they're whispering of affection. Again, briefly described and the reader does not get to participate in her affection in her actual words. Miss Bingley is quite terrible and they should have banished her from their company when she first came to insult E at Darcy's house.
But you probably shouldn't get married just to spite Miss Bingley.
Steam level: Nope.
April 30, 2024
Elizabeth to town instead of Jane
I liked that Elizabeth goes to town instead of Jane and is able to get wise counsel from her aunt about everything that has happened. Because of this she is already thinking differently about Darcy and Wickham before she comes across Darcy in the park. Darcy invites Elizabeth to be a friend to his sister and to see if she can help pull hee from the shell she has encased herself in. The friendship and eventual trust was nice to witness. Things progress faster than Canon due to the change in who goes to town. I had both the ebook and audiobook and the narration by Harry Frost was wonderful. Will I read or listen again? Yes!
I liked that Elizabeth goes to town instead of Jane and is able to get wise counsel from her aunt about everything that has happened. Because of this she is already thinking differently about Darcy and Wickham before she comes across Darcy in the park. Darcy invites Elizabeth to be a friend to his sister and to see if she can help pull hee from the shell she has encased herself in. The friendship and eventual trust was nice to witness. Things progress faster than Canon due to the change in who goes to town. I had both the ebook and audiobook and the narration by Harry Frost was wonderful. Will I read or listen again? Yes!
May 20, 2024
This is more about Elizabeth’s friendship with Georgiana. Though, clearly, the fact that Elizabeth is a frequent guest at Darcy House, is all due to Fitzwilliam Darcy’s admiration and respect of her. I enjoyed seeing the layers of Elizabeth’s prejudice towards Darcy peel back with every meeting. Eventually, and naturally, a courtship begins for E&D. There were some parts that made me laugh, like when Elizabeth teases Darcy for a bad pun he makes about his “musical forte not being gifted at the pianoforte.” Overall, it is an enjoyable read without the repetition of scenes/lines from the original.
June 2, 2025
3.5 stars
Pros:
Low angst with a strong focus on Elizabeth and Georgina’s friendship. Some lovely scenes of developing affection between ODC.
Con’s:
Despite the rest of this being quite slow paced it has a very abrupt ending
Caroline Bingley goes a bit feral and OOC
The beginning sets up Jane having more of a backbone and questioning the value of Bingley who is so easily pursued to leave her but then that gets neatly resolved - I wonder if an earlier draft had her with Colonel Fitzwilliam?
Notes: breaks with fan-convention using Colonel Antony Fitzwilliam rather than Richard. Austen never gave him a first name.
Pros:
Low angst with a strong focus on Elizabeth and Georgina’s friendship. Some lovely scenes of developing affection between ODC.
Con’s:
Despite the rest of this being quite slow paced it has a very abrupt ending
Caroline Bingley goes a bit feral and OOC
The beginning sets up Jane having more of a backbone and questioning the value of Bingley who is so easily pursued to leave her but then that gets neatly resolved - I wonder if an earlier draft had her with Colonel Fitzwilliam?
Notes: breaks with fan-convention using Colonel Antony Fitzwilliam rather than Richard. Austen never gave him a first name.
December 17, 2023
Friendship between Elizabeth and Georgiana
Darcy unexpectedly runs into Elizabeth in London, as she returned with the Gardiners instead of Jane. Worried about his sisters, he applies to Elizabeth to befriend her and try to draw her out of her depression. The relationship between Darcy, Elizabeth, Georgiana, and the Gardiners grow throughout the book.
There is minimal drama, the biggest being from Miss Bingley. Mostly it is visits between the houses and any larger events that occur. It is a sweet, simple read
Darcy unexpectedly runs into Elizabeth in London, as she returned with the Gardiners instead of Jane. Worried about his sisters, he applies to Elizabeth to befriend her and try to draw her out of her depression. The relationship between Darcy, Elizabeth, Georgiana, and the Gardiners grow throughout the book.
There is minimal drama, the biggest being from Miss Bingley. Mostly it is visits between the houses and any larger events that occur. It is a sweet, simple read
February 22, 2024
Didn't really enjoy this one. The writing is very formal and stilted language, presumably to echo the style of Austen but it just felt overdone and really distanced me from the story. I didn't really like how E and D reconnected, it felt somewhat unbelievable and wasn't exciting or interesting enough for me to want to suspend disbelief. There were some skips in time through the story (short ones) that seemed to miss key events. The ending was also pretty disappointing and sort of trailed away not entirely resolved.
August 3, 2024
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Harry Frost. Mr. Frost is my favorite for JAFF narrator. His character voices are excellent, especially Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth. I loved this Pride and Prejudice variation. Mr. Rowland's variation changes many different aspects of the original Jane Austen Pride and Prejudice, without all of the prideful and prejudices from our favorite couple, but I found a very enjoyable variation which has Elizabeth befriending Georgiana Darcy as she struggles with her experience with Mr. Wickham. This is a definite recommendation for any JAFF lover.
May 1, 2024
Not all as expected
I loved this story, and was hooked from the start. It was a well written and thought out. I enjoyed the slow building of relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth without all the angst. However, I do wish it didn’t end quite so abruptly- though don’t get me wrong all was resolved as you would expect, but it happened too quickly for my liking. I would have liked to have had more. I still very much enjoyed it though!
I loved this story, and was hooked from the start. It was a well written and thought out. I enjoyed the slow building of relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth without all the angst. However, I do wish it didn’t end quite so abruptly- though don’t get me wrong all was resolved as you would expect, but it happened too quickly for my liking. I would have liked to have had more. I still very much enjoyed it though!
November 25, 2023
Interesting variation
The storyline was unexpected, with Darcy making an appearance to forward a friendship between Elizabeth and Georgiana and character changes to himself. I am surprised it dealt so much with how disgruntled Caroline Bingley was with Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship and then abruptly the book ended.
The storyline was unexpected, with Darcy making an appearance to forward a friendship between Elizabeth and Georgiana and character changes to himself. I am surprised it dealt so much with how disgruntled Caroline Bingley was with Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship and then abruptly the book ended.
December 8, 2023
its okay
Although nice, I feel there was something missing from this variation. The style of writing, with its tendency to “telegraph” where the story was going beforehand, at times frustrated me. The absence of any really romantic or intriguing banter between ODC left the story a bit dry. And its seemingly abrupt end without an expected conclusion was disappointing.
Although nice, I feel there was something missing from this variation. The style of writing, with its tendency to “telegraph” where the story was going beforehand, at times frustrated me. The absence of any really romantic or intriguing banter between ODC left the story a bit dry. And its seemingly abrupt end without an expected conclusion was disappointing.
December 11, 2023
Another Sweet Alternative P&P
I enjoyed this storyline. While Darcy being in Grace Church area is far fetched it was sweet. I Loved getting to know Georgianna. Elizabeth was wonderful and Aunt Gardner remarkable.
Low emotional turmoil and good self-reflections.
I highly recommend you read this book.
I enjoyed this storyline. While Darcy being in Grace Church area is far fetched it was sweet. I Loved getting to know Georgianna. Elizabeth was wonderful and Aunt Gardner remarkable.
Low emotional turmoil and good self-reflections.
I highly recommend you read this book.
December 14, 2023
This was very well written and I honestly enjoyed most of it, so why would I give it such a lack luster review? Honestly, it was not romantic. And I read Elizabeth/Darcy books for the romance. Darcy was not swoony at all. There was no angst, no burning, no “ardently”. Thus, the star deduction. If you are interested in a story about Georgiana and Elizabeth forming a friendship and don’t care much about the mushy stuff, you’ll no doubt enjoy this book. But if, like me, you need some hand flexing goodness, you might be disappointed.
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