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The Holly and The Ivy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation Christmas Novella
In "The Holly and the Ivy," a Pride and Prejudice Variation Christmas Novella, Elizabeth Bennet finds herself in the bustling streets of London in late 1812. Unexpectedly, she crosses paths with Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy. They last met when Elizabeth vehemently rejected his proposal in March. Although Darcy's letter altered Elizabeth's perceptions, he avoided her, fearing the awkward aftermath.
A chance meeting rekindles their connection, prompting Darcy to embark on a mission to reshape Elizabeth's opinion of him. Seeking counsel from his cousin, the colonel, Darcy learns the art of smiling, complimenting, and giving thoughtful gifts. While shopping for Georgiana Darcy, they encounter a surprise threat from a footpad. Elizabeth is impressed by a new side of Darcy.
Elizabeth returns home to stay with Jane and Bingley. Jane invites Mr. Darcy and his sister to join them at Netherfield for Christmas. However, the scheming Caroline Bingley attempts to manipulate the situation. Thanks to Bingley's intervention, Darcy, and Elizabeth navigate the holiday challenges and reach a mutual understanding.
The symbolism of holly enriches the novella, representing good fortune, rebirth, and happy marriage.
A chance meeting rekindles their connection, prompting Darcy to embark on a mission to reshape Elizabeth's opinion of him. Seeking counsel from his cousin, the colonel, Darcy learns the art of smiling, complimenting, and giving thoughtful gifts. While shopping for Georgiana Darcy, they encounter a surprise threat from a footpad. Elizabeth is impressed by a new side of Darcy.
Elizabeth returns home to stay with Jane and Bingley. Jane invites Mr. Darcy and his sister to join them at Netherfield for Christmas. However, the scheming Caroline Bingley attempts to manipulate the situation. Thanks to Bingley's intervention, Darcy, and Elizabeth navigate the holiday challenges and reach a mutual understanding.
The symbolism of holly enriches the novella, representing good fortune, rebirth, and happy marriage.
136 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 14, 2023
63 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
January 4, 2024
A sweet story, in which ODC meet up in London.
Darcy gets a second chance over those weeks and then travels to Hertfordshire for the holidays following Elizabeth. The Gardiners are just right and so cute in this one.
Darcy gets a second chance over those weeks and then travels to Hertfordshire for the holidays following Elizabeth. The Gardiners are just right and so cute in this one.
December 22, 2023
In this variation, Darcy did not join Bingley in returning to Longbourn. Elizabeth Bennet has escaped her mother by visiting the Gardiners in London. A chance meeting at a book store puts Elizabeth and Darcy back in each other's company. With the Christmas holiday as a backdrop, Darcy must learn how to communicate and Elizabeth how to discern her feelings on their way to happily ever after. It is a sweet clean read!
This story contains a strong Jane and Charles, wonderful Georgiana, and a history of the use of holly and ivy for decorations.
This story contains a strong Jane and Charles, wonderful Georgiana, and a history of the use of holly and ivy for decorations.
November 26, 2024
4.5 stars
I listened to the audiobook.
Nice and sweet story of ODC after quite a few months after the first proposal.
I listened to the audiobook.
Nice and sweet story of ODC after quite a few months after the first proposal.
January 5, 2024
Wonderful
After the disastrous proposal at Hunsford Parsonage, after Darcy's letter to Elizabeth, Jane and Bingley are reunited and married, and Elizabeth goes to stay with the Gardiners in London in order to escape the abuse her mother wants to heap on her. While shopping for Christmas gifts, she encounters Darcy in a bookstore. Elizabeth regrets her harsh refusal of Darcy's proposal, and Darcy still loves her, so he immediately sets out to improve her opinion of him.
The nice thing about a novella that begins at this point of the P&P story is that all of the acrimony is behind them, and ODC are free to be playful and romantic. This is a swoon worthy Darcy, and an Elizabeth who is ready to be won over. The romance is lovely. Georgiana is given a lot to do, which is nice. The only real villain is Caroline Bingley. She is a doozy, but fortunately Charles Bingley grows a backbone after his marriage, as does Jane, so Caroline is dealt with handily.
The book is well written and well edited. It's a fun and engaging story that I recommend highly.
After the disastrous proposal at Hunsford Parsonage, after Darcy's letter to Elizabeth, Jane and Bingley are reunited and married, and Elizabeth goes to stay with the Gardiners in London in order to escape the abuse her mother wants to heap on her. While shopping for Christmas gifts, she encounters Darcy in a bookstore. Elizabeth regrets her harsh refusal of Darcy's proposal, and Darcy still loves her, so he immediately sets out to improve her opinion of him.
The nice thing about a novella that begins at this point of the P&P story is that all of the acrimony is behind them, and ODC are free to be playful and romantic. This is a swoon worthy Darcy, and an Elizabeth who is ready to be won over. The romance is lovely. Georgiana is given a lot to do, which is nice. The only real villain is Caroline Bingley. She is a doozy, but fortunately Charles Bingley grows a backbone after his marriage, as does Jane, so Caroline is dealt with handily.
The book is well written and well edited. It's a fun and engaging story that I recommend highly.
February 26, 2024
Lovely holiday season story
Aside from the enchanting tale, there are a lot of interesting bits of information about the meaning of different holiday traditions. Thoroughly enjoyable!
Aside from the enchanting tale, there are a lot of interesting bits of information about the meaning of different holiday traditions. Thoroughly enjoyable!
January 3, 2024
3,5 stars
I could have done without Miss B's compromise. But the fact it was dealt with without a big to do, I suppose it was acceptable.
I could have done without Miss B's compromise. But the fact it was dealt with without a big to do, I suppose it was acceptable.
January 18, 2024
SPOILERS
Bingley and Jane are married and living at Longbourn. The Gardiners invite Elizabeth to spend most of December in London, where she meets Darcy by chance at Hatchard's. Illness had prevented her aunt and uncle from traveling to the Lakes that summer, so Elizabeth had not seen Darcy since the ill-fated proposal at Hunsford. Darcy takes advantage of his second chance, introducing Elizabeth and the Gardiners to Georgiana and inviting them to dinner. On a walk in Hyde Park, Elizabeth is accosted by a footpad, giving Darcy the chance to be the hero and enjoy a comforting embrace with her. He enlists Richard's help in courting a woman, since he's essentially clueless.
Elizabeth returns to Longbourn with the Gardiners, but this time they stay at Netherfield with Bingley and a very pregnant Jane. Darcy and Georgiana are also invited. Caroline is a caricature of herself in this variation, openly insulting all the Bennets, especially Elizabeth, and attempting to wrest control of the household from Jane. She goes too far when she tries to compromise Darcy and is banished to London by Bingley, who has started to grow a spine.
This variation was enjoyable. There was a bit too much information about holly and ivy, which I skimmed, but the dialogue was engaging, and the action was believable.
Bingley and Jane are married and living at Longbourn. The Gardiners invite Elizabeth to spend most of December in London, where she meets Darcy by chance at Hatchard's. Illness had prevented her aunt and uncle from traveling to the Lakes that summer, so Elizabeth had not seen Darcy since the ill-fated proposal at Hunsford. Darcy takes advantage of his second chance, introducing Elizabeth and the Gardiners to Georgiana and inviting them to dinner. On a walk in Hyde Park, Elizabeth is accosted by a footpad, giving Darcy the chance to be the hero and enjoy a comforting embrace with her. He enlists Richard's help in courting a woman, since he's essentially clueless.
Elizabeth returns to Longbourn with the Gardiners, but this time they stay at Netherfield with Bingley and a very pregnant Jane. Darcy and Georgiana are also invited. Caroline is a caricature of herself in this variation, openly insulting all the Bennets, especially Elizabeth, and attempting to wrest control of the household from Jane. She goes too far when she tries to compromise Darcy and is banished to London by Bingley, who has started to grow a spine.
This variation was enjoyable. There was a bit too much information about holly and ivy, which I skimmed, but the dialogue was engaging, and the action was believable.
December 20, 2023
The Holly and The Ivy
Very joyful holiday story. Lady Catherine will be seriously displeased to say the least. This story takes place after the Hunsford proposal. Both Lizzy and Darcy are in London and are shopping at Hatchards. He hears the siren call of her singing and so drawn goes to investigate. Time and his letter has changed her feelings towards him, and her admonishment of his behavior has adjusted his pride. Realizing he has been given another chance to get things right, he forges forward. A better understanding between them creates everything he was hoping for. Calling on her at the Gardiners helps him realize that she has family members that are appropriate and gentile. When she returns to Longbourn, she encourages Jane to invite the Darcy’s to visit for the Holiday Season. Unfortunately, that brings the vulture, Caroline Bingley, back to Netherfield. Making herself again the obnoxious pest that she is, she tries to undermine Jane’s authority over the house, rudely criticizes the Bennets, Elizabeth especially, and tries to latch on to Darcy. In her desperate attempt to capture Darcy, she makes a last ditch effort to compromise him. Bingley finally finds his backbone and pushes her back to London not believing her story about Darcy compromising her. Collecting more ivy, holly, and mistletoe for the Holiday decorations, Darcy proposes again and a joyous Elizabeth accepts this proposal. The announcement strikes every one at Christmas dinner differently with no effusions from Mrs. Bennet because she fainted dead away with the news! Good story and a very quick read.
Very joyful holiday story. Lady Catherine will be seriously displeased to say the least. This story takes place after the Hunsford proposal. Both Lizzy and Darcy are in London and are shopping at Hatchards. He hears the siren call of her singing and so drawn goes to investigate. Time and his letter has changed her feelings towards him, and her admonishment of his behavior has adjusted his pride. Realizing he has been given another chance to get things right, he forges forward. A better understanding between them creates everything he was hoping for. Calling on her at the Gardiners helps him realize that she has family members that are appropriate and gentile. When she returns to Longbourn, she encourages Jane to invite the Darcy’s to visit for the Holiday Season. Unfortunately, that brings the vulture, Caroline Bingley, back to Netherfield. Making herself again the obnoxious pest that she is, she tries to undermine Jane’s authority over the house, rudely criticizes the Bennets, Elizabeth especially, and tries to latch on to Darcy. In her desperate attempt to capture Darcy, she makes a last ditch effort to compromise him. Bingley finally finds his backbone and pushes her back to London not believing her story about Darcy compromising her. Collecting more ivy, holly, and mistletoe for the Holiday decorations, Darcy proposes again and a joyous Elizabeth accepts this proposal. The announcement strikes every one at Christmas dinner differently with no effusions from Mrs. Bennet because she fainted dead away with the news! Good story and a very quick read.
January 26, 2024
Short and sweet Christmas holiday treat
For those JAFF readers who love sweet novellas with little angst, this is highly recommended.
Elizabeth Bennet, who is on holiday with the Gardiners in their home in Gracechurch Street, stays in London rather than journeys to Derbyshire. While shopping for gifts at a shop in London, Elizabeth happens upon Mr. Darcy; the first time meeting after his disastrous proposal in Hunsford was rejected. Furthermore, an attempt at robbery exposes the vulnerability of Elizabeth, while she realizes the attentive, caring and protective nature and generosity of Mr. Darcy. Then began Mr. Darcy’s determined campaign to win the hand of the only lady who his heart yearns for. The two learn more about each other in London until traveling to Hertfordshire for the Christmas holidays.
The mention of symbolisms of flowers was a fascinating touch. The exchanges between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth are swoon-worthy. From the well-written thoughts and feelings of Elizabeth, her burgeoning admiration, adoration and love for Mr. Darcy are laid bare. The author pens lovely lines regarding these. While Mr. Darcy is depicted as a constant and attentive lover.
For those JAFF readers who love sweet novellas with little angst, this is highly recommended.
Elizabeth Bennet, who is on holiday with the Gardiners in their home in Gracechurch Street, stays in London rather than journeys to Derbyshire. While shopping for gifts at a shop in London, Elizabeth happens upon Mr. Darcy; the first time meeting after his disastrous proposal in Hunsford was rejected. Furthermore, an attempt at robbery exposes the vulnerability of Elizabeth, while she realizes the attentive, caring and protective nature and generosity of Mr. Darcy. Then began Mr. Darcy’s determined campaign to win the hand of the only lady who his heart yearns for. The two learn more about each other in London until traveling to Hertfordshire for the Christmas holidays.
The mention of symbolisms of flowers was a fascinating touch. The exchanges between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth are swoon-worthy. From the well-written thoughts and feelings of Elizabeth, her burgeoning admiration, adoration and love for Mr. Darcy are laid bare. The author pens lovely lines regarding these. While Mr. Darcy is depicted as a constant and attentive lover.
January 15, 2024
126 pages on my Kindle. The author's story description gives us a good synopsis of the premise of this story. When we begin the Hunsford proposal has already occured.
Yes, Elizabeth and Darcy meet again, by accident, in London in the Hatchards bookstore and she gives him some advice as to an appropriate gift for Georgiana. He offers to take her home in his carriage as she had used a hackney to arrive...she has a maid with her to chaperone. So he meets the Gardiners. (The Colonel is on hand, as we read, to mentor Darcy in how to court a lady.)
And so ODC has many occasions to be together here on out. Elizabeth wonders at his relationship with Jane and Bingley as he was absent when they married. However, the Bingleys invite both to stay with them (along with Georgiana). Caroline has shown up when she learned Darcy would be there and she won't let Darcy carry on as he is with Elizabeth without plans of her own.
As they decorate the house for Christmas we are given a further lesson about the significant of spiked and smooth leaves on the holly.
I enjoyed this short, sweet romance. There are two incidents which provide some bits of angst.
Yes, Elizabeth and Darcy meet again, by accident, in London in the Hatchards bookstore and she gives him some advice as to an appropriate gift for Georgiana. He offers to take her home in his carriage as she had used a hackney to arrive...she has a maid with her to chaperone. So he meets the Gardiners. (The Colonel is on hand, as we read, to mentor Darcy in how to court a lady.)
And so ODC has many occasions to be together here on out. Elizabeth wonders at his relationship with Jane and Bingley as he was absent when they married. However, the Bingleys invite both to stay with them (along with Georgiana). Caroline has shown up when she learned Darcy would be there and she won't let Darcy carry on as he is with Elizabeth without plans of her own.
As they decorate the house for Christmas we are given a further lesson about the significant of spiked and smooth leaves on the holly.
I enjoyed this short, sweet romance. There are two incidents which provide some bits of angst.
January 29, 2024
This was a sweet little quick read. Up to Hunsford, things went pretty much canon but Lydia did not elope and Darcy did not come back for Bingley's wedding. And I think Elizabeth never saw Darcy at Pemberley either. Now it's December and they meet at a bookshop. He asks her for help selecting gifts for Georgiana and amicable conversations are had. There's a bit of danger in the form of a footpad. No one gets badly injured but it's a chance for Darcy to shine. There are lovely moments. Editing is pretty good with a chance of plural's with apostrophe's. Some of it feels a bit obviously instructional, like the author did some research and had to include it for the reader's benefit.
Steam level: Kissing for ODC and misplaced bodices for someone else.
Steam level: Kissing for ODC and misplaced bodices for someone else.
Read
December 26, 2023Enjoyed this shorter Christmas P&P variation-a lovely and cozy holiday read. Some small quibbles: Dialogue occasionally stilted/didactic (some of the "conversation" surrounding the holly felt like a lecture, though it was certainly an interesting history). Low angst romance for sure, which is nice for a holiday novella but occasionally dragged. It felt like it took a long time to get to the resolution after it was clear early in the book that both main characters loved each other and each recognized it in the other. A purse snatcher and Caroline Bingley are the two main villains.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2024
I loved it!
The book is well written and well edited. It's a fun and engaging story that I recommend highly. The story flows exactly as described in the book description. The book moves at a good pace and is a very delightful low angst genuine development of love, trust, and respect. This is a lovely holiday love story. This is the first book by Mary Alice Alexander I’ve read and I can’t wait to read more. I hope she continues to write JAFF stories.
The book is well written and well edited. It's a fun and engaging story that I recommend highly. The story flows exactly as described in the book description. The book moves at a good pace and is a very delightful low angst genuine development of love, trust, and respect. This is a lovely holiday love story. This is the first book by Mary Alice Alexander I’ve read and I can’t wait to read more. I hope she continues to write JAFF stories.
April 4, 2024
A nice simple Christmas variation
In this variation, Darcy and Elizabeth do not meet again soon after the first failed proposal and Lydia doesn't elope. The meet again a year later after Jane and Bingley are married. Elizabeth is able to see Darcy had changed and enjoys his new attention while becoming friends with Georgiana. They both end up staying at Netherfield with the Bingleys for Christmas. Caroline Bingley is the only angst in the story.
In this variation, Darcy and Elizabeth do not meet again soon after the first failed proposal and Lydia doesn't elope. The meet again a year later after Jane and Bingley are married. Elizabeth is able to see Darcy had changed and enjoys his new attention while becoming friends with Georgiana. They both end up staying at Netherfield with the Bingleys for Christmas. Caroline Bingley is the only angst in the story.
December 16, 2023
A charming romance
Sweet without being cloying, we observe a Darcy who has changed his behaviors since the Hunsford proposal and a Lizzy who has learned some lessons. Good dialogue, witty responses, and romantic moments as Darcy learns to express his feelings and Elizabeth learns to love. A stronger Bingley and Jane join the fun. Loved it!
Sweet without being cloying, we observe a Darcy who has changed his behaviors since the Hunsford proposal and a Lizzy who has learned some lessons. Good dialogue, witty responses, and romantic moments as Darcy learns to express his feelings and Elizabeth learns to love. A stronger Bingley and Jane join the fun. Loved it!
December 23, 2023
A quick read
- A nice story, though some things felt odd. Lydia's change was mentioned, but there wasn't one scene that showed the change, which is a shame because I loved the spin on why Lydia didn't go to Brighton.
- I'm not sure Richard was necessary.
- There are sweet moments here and there with Darcy and Elizabeth having a decent amount of screen time.
- A nice story, though some things felt odd. Lydia's change was mentioned, but there wasn't one scene that showed the change, which is a shame because I loved the spin on why Lydia didn't go to Brighton.
- I'm not sure Richard was necessary.
- There are sweet moments here and there with Darcy and Elizabeth having a decent amount of screen time.
January 6, 2024
Very nice story with fewer editing problems than the previous work I read by her. The author still cannot get plurals, possessives or plural possessives correct. It’s really not that hard. Some modern language.
Yes, I’m still reading holiday stories in January but we finally have snow! I’m so happy.
Yes, I’m still reading holiday stories in January but we finally have snow! I’m so happy.
December 22, 2024
Definitely nothing truly out of character unlike many Austen variants (I enjoy both types of they're well written). A very cute, well plotted Christmas romance between Elizabeth and I enjoyed the author's writing. I liked the changes to the original plot and the fact that the events stayed period appropriate. I will definitely be looking at her other P&P variations.
December 21, 2023
Loved It!
Loved It! Loved It! Loved It!!! A very delightful low angst genuine development of love, trust, and respect. Of course I also always adore it when Jane and Mr Bingley both grow spines. This is a lovely holiday love story.
Loved It! Loved It! Loved It!!! A very delightful low angst genuine development of love, trust, and respect. Of course I also always adore it when Jane and Mr Bingley both grow spines. This is a lovely holiday love story.
February 17, 2024
A fun read
If you like spending time with Darcy and Elizabeth, you will enjoy this quick read. I also enjoyed a Mr. Bingley with a backbone. I always enjoy Caroline Bingley and like it even more when she receives her comeuppance. Happy reading about our dear couple
If you like spending time with Darcy and Elizabeth, you will enjoy this quick read. I also enjoyed a Mr. Bingley with a backbone. I always enjoy Caroline Bingley and like it even more when she receives her comeuppance. Happy reading about our dear couple
November 18, 2024
Holiday Tale With Several Twists
I love reading the many P&P variations. This was a mix of discovery and angst. Our beloved couple battles past errors and the obnoxious Miss Bingley! But, love does concur all!💜
I love reading the many P&P variations. This was a mix of discovery and angst. Our beloved couple battles past errors and the obnoxious Miss Bingley! But, love does concur all!💜
January 12, 2024
Delightful!
What a delightful lil story.. I love the P&P variations.
Stupid Miss Bingley! That girl will come to a bad end!
What a delightful lil story.. I love the P&P variations.
Stupid Miss Bingley! That girl will come to a bad end!
February 1, 2024
Betrothed?
All romance stories lead to the time of the bethrodles. This story is predictable
but it is a happy non stressful read. It is perfect for the holiday.
All romance stories lead to the time of the bethrodles. This story is predictable
but it is a happy non stressful read. It is perfect for the holiday.
February 18, 2024
A warm Christmas read
I loved this variation with minimal angst and a beautiful HEA. This will be a favorite I will read again. Best of all, Caroline finally gets hers.
I loved this variation with minimal angst and a beautiful HEA. This will be a favorite I will read again. Best of all, Caroline finally gets hers.
December 14, 2024
Lots of typos...but a good story.
November 30, 2025
3.65⭐️
December 18, 2025
In winter of 1812 Darcy and Elizabeth unexpectedly cross paths in a London bookshop. It is the first time they encounter each other again after Elizabeth rejected Darcy's proposal of marriage in Kent. Darcy is now sure that he is as in love as ever and he is determined to now woo Elizabeth to win her heart.
To not again make a mess of it, Darcy asks his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam for help. To spend time with Elizabeth, Darcy then asks her to search for a Christmas present for his sister Georgina with him. Elizabeth agrees to it and while shopping as she gets to know a new side of the reticent gentleman from Derbyshire.
When she returns to Netherfield to stay with her sister she asks the Darcys to accompany her. Both agree to stay for Christmas at Netherfield.
Will Christmas finally change the state of Darcy's and Elizabeth's relationship? Will Darcy persuade Elizabeth that he has changed but is, at the same time, as much in love with her as ever? Or will outward intruders try to stop their upcoming understanding?
The story was very well written by the author Mary Alice Alexander. The story is not too long (136 p./4 h) so it therefore is the perfect length for reading or listening to it in the Christmas season. Most of the time the story takes place in London, only at the end the Darcy siblings and Elizabeth go to stay at Netherfield for Christmas. Beside Darcy’s efforts to win Elizabeth’s heart there are some occurrences in London as well as in Netherfield that give some thrill to the story and progress the relationship of ODC.
After seeing her the first time after his insulting proposal in Kent Darcy realizes that he is as much in love as he was then. To not mess it up again he asks the Colonel for help. I like this very much. With the help of the Colonel Darcy is taught the principles of wooing a lady properly. Darcy’s courtship is therefore more at ease, he knows what to do and he is, most of all, not his taciturn self, he talks with Elizabeth and pays her compliments. I like this Darcy very much because, in my opinion, he then shows his real personality, the one one only gets to see when one already knows him intimately and long.
The main subject between Darcy and Elizabeth on their shopping occasions is Darcy’s sister Georgiana. With this topic he is familiar and is therefore able to converse freely. In addition Elizabeth gets to see his love for his sister as well as his kindness and his wish to make her happy. I think her heart recognizes that he will treat her in a similarly, loving way once she becomes his wife.
I really like that Elizabeth’s opinion of Darcy has already changed after she received his letter in Kent. Therefore she can see him with open eyes and acknowledge all the qualities she once failed to see or could not see because he chose to keep them hidden. And she is open to the feelings he evokes in her, the desire to be near him, to feel protected in his proximity.
I very much enjoyed it, that Bingley finally stands up against his sister. She got her whims often enough in the past, I love that he now does not tolerate her machinations and manipulations any more and let her feel the consequences of her actions.
Wickham fortunately has no appearance and Lady Cathrine is at Rosings. Only Caroline Bingley tries to vex our dear couple, but fortunately Bingley is this time determined to prove that he is a good husband, friend and brother and takes matters in hand for the sake of his wife Jane, his friend Darcy and his sister Elizabeth.
The story was narrated by the wonderful Stevie Zimmerman. With her as a narrator an audiobook can only be good. I like that I am, at every part of the story, able to tell who is talking to whom. It’s a bit like sitting at the table with old friends and listening to their conversation. She has done a wonderful job.
If you would like to know if Darcy is, with his cousin’s help, able to change Elizabeth’s opinion of him and court her properly you should listen to this audiobook.
I highly recommend it.
I received a code for the audiobook in a giveaway and am voluntarily leaving a review.
To not again make a mess of it, Darcy asks his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam for help. To spend time with Elizabeth, Darcy then asks her to search for a Christmas present for his sister Georgina with him. Elizabeth agrees to it and while shopping as she gets to know a new side of the reticent gentleman from Derbyshire.
When she returns to Netherfield to stay with her sister she asks the Darcys to accompany her. Both agree to stay for Christmas at Netherfield.
Will Christmas finally change the state of Darcy's and Elizabeth's relationship? Will Darcy persuade Elizabeth that he has changed but is, at the same time, as much in love with her as ever? Or will outward intruders try to stop their upcoming understanding?
The story was very well written by the author Mary Alice Alexander. The story is not too long (136 p./4 h) so it therefore is the perfect length for reading or listening to it in the Christmas season. Most of the time the story takes place in London, only at the end the Darcy siblings and Elizabeth go to stay at Netherfield for Christmas. Beside Darcy’s efforts to win Elizabeth’s heart there are some occurrences in London as well as in Netherfield that give some thrill to the story and progress the relationship of ODC.
After seeing her the first time after his insulting proposal in Kent Darcy realizes that he is as much in love as he was then. To not mess it up again he asks the Colonel for help. I like this very much. With the help of the Colonel Darcy is taught the principles of wooing a lady properly. Darcy’s courtship is therefore more at ease, he knows what to do and he is, most of all, not his taciturn self, he talks with Elizabeth and pays her compliments. I like this Darcy very much because, in my opinion, he then shows his real personality, the one one only gets to see when one already knows him intimately and long.
The main subject between Darcy and Elizabeth on their shopping occasions is Darcy’s sister Georgiana. With this topic he is familiar and is therefore able to converse freely. In addition Elizabeth gets to see his love for his sister as well as his kindness and his wish to make her happy. I think her heart recognizes that he will treat her in a similarly, loving way once she becomes his wife.
I really like that Elizabeth’s opinion of Darcy has already changed after she received his letter in Kent. Therefore she can see him with open eyes and acknowledge all the qualities she once failed to see or could not see because he chose to keep them hidden. And she is open to the feelings he evokes in her, the desire to be near him, to feel protected in his proximity.
I very much enjoyed it, that Bingley finally stands up against his sister. She got her whims often enough in the past, I love that he now does not tolerate her machinations and manipulations any more and let her feel the consequences of her actions.
Wickham fortunately has no appearance and Lady Cathrine is at Rosings. Only Caroline Bingley tries to vex our dear couple, but fortunately Bingley is this time determined to prove that he is a good husband, friend and brother and takes matters in hand for the sake of his wife Jane, his friend Darcy and his sister Elizabeth.
The story was narrated by the wonderful Stevie Zimmerman. With her as a narrator an audiobook can only be good. I like that I am, at every part of the story, able to tell who is talking to whom. It’s a bit like sitting at the table with old friends and listening to their conversation. She has done a wonderful job.
If you would like to know if Darcy is, with his cousin’s help, able to change Elizabeth’s opinion of him and court her properly you should listen to this audiobook.
I highly recommend it.
I received a code for the audiobook in a giveaway and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 17, 2025
This lovely story takes place the holiday season after the HD (Hunsford Debacle). I enjoyed the romance that gradually blooms between Darcy and Elizabeth, in spite of Elizabeth's initial confusion and disbelief - she is certain that Darcy hates her after what she said during the HD.
The soon-to-be Brigadier General Richard Fitzwilliam was a great addition in his coaching of Darcy to not scowl and to learn to give heartfelt compliments; I would have liked to see more of him. I definitely approve the new Jane & Bingley; both now with a spine and not putting up with Miss Bingley's nonsense. Apparently a condition of their engagement was that Caroline not live with them. In this story, Caro has completely lost track of manners and civility: she invites herself (dragging the Hursts along) to Netherfield when she learns that Darcy will be there, continuously insults Elizabeth to her face & denigrates her when she is not there, attempts to interfere with Jane's management of the house, among other horrid and shocking things that you have to read the book to find out about.
Georgiana was lovely, especially her anger at a certain event: “I wish it were my place to call her out. This is the first instance when I have ever had any understanding of why some gentlemen have duels! Never have I been so angry in my life!” Heh. You know it was bad if Georgiana is *that* riled up. You have to read the book to find out what made her so angry!
While the ending is sweet, I feel the story was cut off too soon. This is a pet peeve of mine, where so many authors feel like their job is done once Darcy and Elizabeth are engaged, no matter the loose ends or other things that could be continued to make the book outstanding. That's the main reason I removed a star. We have to put up with so much obnoxiousness from Miss Bingley that we should be rewarded with seeing more of the happiness of ODC once they become engaged. Also, after hearing about Mrs. Bennet's mean treatment of Elizabeth (the main reason she was in London with the Gardiners a month or two before the holidays), I would have liked to see a set-down of her. I did like the symbolism of the holly and ivy; I had never heard that whole story before.
Overall, a nice quick read and I do recommend this book.
The soon-to-be Brigadier General Richard Fitzwilliam was a great addition in his coaching of Darcy to not scowl and to learn to give heartfelt compliments; I would have liked to see more of him. I definitely approve the new Jane & Bingley; both now with a spine and not putting up with Miss Bingley's nonsense. Apparently a condition of their engagement was that Caroline not live with them. In this story, Caro has completely lost track of manners and civility: she invites herself (dragging the Hursts along) to Netherfield when she learns that Darcy will be there, continuously insults Elizabeth to her face & denigrates her when she is not there, attempts to interfere with Jane's management of the house, among other horrid and shocking things that you have to read the book to find out about.
Georgiana was lovely, especially her anger at a certain event: “I wish it were my place to call her out. This is the first instance when I have ever had any understanding of why some gentlemen have duels! Never have I been so angry in my life!” Heh. You know it was bad if Georgiana is *that* riled up. You have to read the book to find out what made her so angry!
While the ending is sweet, I feel the story was cut off too soon. This is a pet peeve of mine, where so many authors feel like their job is done once Darcy and Elizabeth are engaged, no matter the loose ends or other things that could be continued to make the book outstanding. That's the main reason I removed a star. We have to put up with so much obnoxiousness from Miss Bingley that we should be rewarded with seeing more of the happiness of ODC once they become engaged. Also, after hearing about Mrs. Bennet's mean treatment of Elizabeth (the main reason she was in London with the Gardiners a month or two before the holidays), I would have liked to see a set-down of her. I did like the symbolism of the holly and ivy; I had never heard that whole story before.
Overall, a nice quick read and I do recommend this book.
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