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Mr Darcy's Bookshop #1
Mr. Darcy's Bookshop
Cut off from his family’s fortune because he refuses to marry the woman his father has selected for him, Fitzwilliam Darcy takes up the only employment he deems tolerable, that of bookseller. Darcy is determined to support himself and to marry for love, but his powerful relations use their clout to keep customers and fashionable young ladies away. Worse, Darcy’s absence from Pemberley allows treachery to flourish.
Determined to see her older sister marry as well as possible, Elizabeth Bennet orchestrates their removal to London. Elizabeth isn’t searching for a husband of her own, but she is always looking for a good book. At a pleasant little bookshop in Cheapside, she finds plenty to read, and so much more. But should she give her heart to a bookseller and leave the life of a gently bred lady behind?
Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop asks what would happen if George Darcy and Sir Lewis de Bourgh had lived, and taken up their deceased wives’ quest to see Darcy and Anne wed. This is a lighthearted variation with laughter, love, a touch of villainy, and a happily ever after for our dear couple.
Determined to see her older sister marry as well as possible, Elizabeth Bennet orchestrates their removal to London. Elizabeth isn’t searching for a husband of her own, but she is always looking for a good book. At a pleasant little bookshop in Cheapside, she finds plenty to read, and so much more. But should she give her heart to a bookseller and leave the life of a gently bred lady behind?
Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop asks what would happen if George Darcy and Sir Lewis de Bourgh had lived, and taken up their deceased wives’ quest to see Darcy and Anne wed. This is a lighthearted variation with laughter, love, a touch of villainy, and a happily ever after for our dear couple.
251 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 18, 2024
472 people are currently reading
340 people want to read
About the author
Summer Hanford
161 books112 followersSummer Hanford writes best-selling Pride and Prejudice retellings, swashbuckling Historical Romance, and gripping Epic Fantasy. She lives in the lovely Finger Lakes Region of New York with her husband and compulsory, deliberately spoiled, cat. The newest addition to their household, an energetic setter-shepherd mix, has been trying, and failing, for eight years to gain acceptance from the cat, but is adored by the humans.
Since the moment she read her first novel, Summer’s passion has always been writing, and epic adventures. As a child growing up on a dairy farm, she built castles made of hay and wielded swords made of fence posts. She is also passionate about animals, travel, and organizing her closet. Nothing pleases her more than a row of tops broken down by sleeve length and ordered by color…except working on her latest novel with her cat in her lap, her dog lounging on the rug dreaming of squirrels, and a cup of tea at hand.
For more about Summer, visit www.summerhanford.com.
Since the moment she read her first novel, Summer’s passion has always been writing, and epic adventures. As a child growing up on a dairy farm, she built castles made of hay and wielded swords made of fence posts. She is also passionate about animals, travel, and organizing her closet. Nothing pleases her more than a row of tops broken down by sleeve length and ordered by color…except working on her latest novel with her cat in her lap, her dog lounging on the rug dreaming of squirrels, and a cup of tea at hand.
For more about Summer, visit www.summerhanford.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
January 20, 2024
“The person, be it gentleman or lady, who has not pleasure in a good novel, must be intolerably stupid.” –Jane Austen, Northanger Abbey
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mature: violence, kidnapping, seduction, attempted murder, lies, lies, and more lies.
>>Angst Level: stressful as the SBRB wove his web of deceit. As soon as I saw his name, I cringed.
>>Source: Borrowed from KU 1-18-24. I volunteered to leave a review. The views and opinions expressed are my own.
>>Trope: AU: Alternate Universe where things are quite different. The men, Lord Matlock, George Darcy, and Sir Lewis de Bourgh, had survived their wives. That changed many things as the men were now in charge of the children. Oh, dear.
“A room without books is like a body without a soul.” –Marcus Tullius Cicero
It is recommended that the Prequel: The Adventures of Annie de Bourgh of Rosings be read first. That short story established the characterization of Darcy’s cousin Anne de Bourgh. She was a pistol fully loaded. In fact, I called her the Annie Oakley of Rosings. She could shoot, hunt, fence, fight, and ride as well as or better than her cousins. Any reference to Anne will then make sense because she was not the sickly wraith we normally read about in JAFF. She would just as soon spit in your eye as look at you. Seriously.
“So many books, so little time.” –Frank Zappa
Darcy had split with his family. His father and two uncles had demanded Fitzwilliam fulfill the cradle betrothal dreamed up by their wives. Thus, forging a dynasty by joining two wealthy estates, Rosing Park and Pemberley. Regardless of the fact neither Anne nor Darcy wanted to marry, the men knew best. Young Darcy left and established a life to support himself by selling his possessions and purchasing a bookshop. The men soon turned the Ton against him and barred them from his door. The bookshop was located in Cheapside. Yeah, the moth was soon drawn to the flame. They were so cute together.
“If one cannot enjoy reading a book over and over again, there is no use in reading it at all.” –Oscar Wilde
There were many secrets at Pemberley. Wickham had full rein with the senior Darcy under his thrall, and Mrs. Younge was in charge of Georgiana. I knew what was about to happen and was nearly chewing my nails. Action moved quickly but there was still violence that might be a trigger for some readers. It was not fully described.
“Outside a dog, a book is man’s best friend. Inside a dog it’s too dark to read.” –Groucho Marx, The Essential Groucho: Writings For By And About Groucho Marx
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mature: violence, kidnapping, seduction, attempted murder, lies, lies, and more lies.
>>Angst Level: stressful as the SBRB wove his web of deceit. As soon as I saw his name, I cringed.
>>Source: Borrowed from KU 1-18-24. I volunteered to leave a review. The views and opinions expressed are my own.
>>Trope: AU: Alternate Universe where things are quite different. The men, Lord Matlock, George Darcy, and Sir Lewis de Bourgh, had survived their wives. That changed many things as the men were now in charge of the children. Oh, dear.
“A room without books is like a body without a soul.” –Marcus Tullius Cicero
It is recommended that the Prequel: The Adventures of Annie de Bourgh of Rosings be read first. That short story established the characterization of Darcy’s cousin Anne de Bourgh. She was a pistol fully loaded. In fact, I called her the Annie Oakley of Rosings. She could shoot, hunt, fence, fight, and ride as well as or better than her cousins. Any reference to Anne will then make sense because she was not the sickly wraith we normally read about in JAFF. She would just as soon spit in your eye as look at you. Seriously.
“So many books, so little time.” –Frank Zappa
Darcy had split with his family. His father and two uncles had demanded Fitzwilliam fulfill the cradle betrothal dreamed up by their wives. Thus, forging a dynasty by joining two wealthy estates, Rosing Park and Pemberley. Regardless of the fact neither Anne nor Darcy wanted to marry, the men knew best. Young Darcy left and established a life to support himself by selling his possessions and purchasing a bookshop. The men soon turned the Ton against him and barred them from his door. The bookshop was located in Cheapside. Yeah, the moth was soon drawn to the flame. They were so cute together.
“If one cannot enjoy reading a book over and over again, there is no use in reading it at all.” –Oscar Wilde
There were many secrets at Pemberley. Wickham had full rein with the senior Darcy under his thrall, and Mrs. Younge was in charge of Georgiana. I knew what was about to happen and was nearly chewing my nails. Action moved quickly but there was still violence that might be a trigger for some readers. It was not fully described.
“Outside a dog, a book is man’s best friend. Inside a dog it’s too dark to read.” –Groucho Marx, The Essential Groucho: Writings For By And About Groucho Marx
December 8, 2025
Darcy the ‘bookseller’.
Three widowed fathers, Mr. George Darcy, Sir Lewis de Bourgh, and the Earl of Matlock, are determined to see a pact undertaken years earlier to have Anne de Bourgh and Fitzwilliam Darcy wed, except—Darcy isn’t interested and has become estranged from his family by his refusal to capitulate to their demand. Cut off from his allowance, he sells some belongings and purchases a bookstore to make his living. Wickham has gained influence with Darcy’s father, and is determined to take his place. He has also befriended Bingley, who is yet unknown to Darcy, more to use his purse than be a friend, mind you. Meanwhile, at Longbourn, Elizabeth and Jane prepare to leave for London to escape Mr. Collins’s unwanted attention.
Elizabeth meets Darcy at his bookshop and a friendship ensues. Bingley also sees Jane there for the first time and, of course, is instantly infatuated with her. Jane is not well pleased with Elizabeth’s interest in a ‘bookseller’, and throughout the book, she is quite tenacious in trying to have her way by thwarting Elizabeth whenever she can. It wasn’t that she was mean, but I felt she was a ‘not-so-nice Jane’.
I really loved this variation where Darcy has to undertake an occupation to support himself and is just above living in poverty. He falls for Elizabeth quickly, but fears she would unlikely have him, being a gentleman’s daughter, in addition to his own fear that if she did accept him, the trio of fathers would make her and her family’s lives miserable. Also, while Wickham is as ever the villain, Summer Hanford has made him especially deceitful and even criminal.
The novel is well written and has a great plot that even includes a rare and significant role by Sir Lewis. Anne de Bourgh is not the commonly portrayed laudanum-induced Anne, but is a vibrant and outgoing woman who hunts and fences, among other things. I recommend the prequel to this book, ‘The Adventures of Miss Anne de Bourgh of Rosings’ be read first to have a better understanding of this Anne, although this book can stand alone.
I highly recommend this very satisfying and engaging page-turner. I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited but loved it so much I purchased it for my library.
Kisses only.
May 16-19, 2024 - Audiobook
I loved this book when it was released earlier this year and thrilled to now have it as an audiobook. The dual narration with the incomparable Stevie Zimmerman and entertaining Benjamin Fife, make it all what it should be… a great listen!
Three widowed fathers, Mr. George Darcy, Sir Lewis de Bourgh, and the Earl of Matlock, are determined to see a pact undertaken years earlier to have Anne de Bourgh and Fitzwilliam Darcy wed, except—Darcy isn’t interested and has become estranged from his family by his refusal to capitulate to their demand. Cut off from his allowance, he sells some belongings and purchases a bookstore to make his living. Wickham has gained influence with Darcy’s father, and is determined to take his place. He has also befriended Bingley, who is yet unknown to Darcy, more to use his purse than be a friend, mind you. Meanwhile, at Longbourn, Elizabeth and Jane prepare to leave for London to escape Mr. Collins’s unwanted attention.
Elizabeth meets Darcy at his bookshop and a friendship ensues. Bingley also sees Jane there for the first time and, of course, is instantly infatuated with her. Jane is not well pleased with Elizabeth’s interest in a ‘bookseller’, and throughout the book, she is quite tenacious in trying to have her way by thwarting Elizabeth whenever she can. It wasn’t that she was mean, but I felt she was a ‘not-so-nice Jane’.
I really loved this variation where Darcy has to undertake an occupation to support himself and is just above living in poverty. He falls for Elizabeth quickly, but fears she would unlikely have him, being a gentleman’s daughter, in addition to his own fear that if she did accept him, the trio of fathers would make her and her family’s lives miserable. Also, while Wickham is as ever the villain, Summer Hanford has made him especially deceitful and even criminal.
The novel is well written and has a great plot that even includes a rare and significant role by Sir Lewis. Anne de Bourgh is not the commonly portrayed laudanum-induced Anne, but is a vibrant and outgoing woman who hunts and fences, among other things. I recommend the prequel to this book, ‘The Adventures of Miss Anne de Bourgh of Rosings’ be read first to have a better understanding of this Anne, although this book can stand alone.
I highly recommend this very satisfying and engaging page-turner. I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited but loved it so much I purchased it for my library.
Kisses only.
May 16-19, 2024 - Audiobook
I loved this book when it was released earlier this year and thrilled to now have it as an audiobook. The dual narration with the incomparable Stevie Zimmerman and entertaining Benjamin Fife, make it all what it should be… a great listen!
January 20, 2024
You know that moment when Bingley sees Jane and his eyes pop out and his chin drops to the floor? How many times have we wished Darcy did that when he sees Elizabeth?
Well, wish no more because *this* Darcy sees Elizabeth and is struck by lightning!
The mothers having passed years ago, the next generation is raised by George Darcy, Louis de Burgh and Matlock. This mens club made a pact and vowed to stand by it. So what happens when the younger generation thwarts them?
Escaping Longbourn to London due to Collins presence, Jane and Elizabeth hope to meet beaux. Jangley goes off fairly easy. Elizabeth ends up with a bit more challenge, especially where Jane's opinion is concerned. She goes into a (strange?) older sister protective mode, which doesn't dissipate till nearly the end of the story.
Divided from his family for refusing to marry Anne, Darcy is making his own way in the world with his book shop. His liking for Elizabeth is instantaneous, as is hers for his. It's so delightful to read our dear couple flirt, blush and stammer with each other. This isn't the usual haughty Darcy. Having rubbed shoulders with people from all walks of life, he is better regulated when meeting new people, if still shy.
Wickham has obviously taken advantage of the situation, but Darcy needs to (practically) abandon Elizabeth to put things to rights.
He gets help from his cousins, Col. F and Anne (get your gun) de Burgh. Their dialog is great and when they show up at Longbourn - fantastic!
I think this is now my new favorite from author (sorry The Widow Elizabeth...)!
Well, wish no more because *this* Darcy sees Elizabeth and is struck by lightning!
The mothers having passed years ago, the next generation is raised by George Darcy, Louis de Burgh and Matlock. This mens club made a pact and vowed to stand by it. So what happens when the younger generation thwarts them?
Escaping Longbourn to London due to Collins presence, Jane and Elizabeth hope to meet beaux. Jangley goes off fairly easy. Elizabeth ends up with a bit more challenge, especially where Jane's opinion is concerned. She goes into a (strange?) older sister protective mode, which doesn't dissipate till nearly the end of the story.
Divided from his family for refusing to marry Anne, Darcy is making his own way in the world with his book shop. His liking for Elizabeth is instantaneous, as is hers for his. It's so delightful to read our dear couple flirt, blush and stammer with each other. This isn't the usual haughty Darcy. Having rubbed shoulders with people from all walks of life, he is better regulated when meeting new people, if still shy.
Wickham has obviously taken advantage of the situation, but Darcy needs to (practically) abandon Elizabeth to put things to rights.
He gets help from his cousins, Col. F and Anne (get your gun) de Burgh. Their dialog is great and when they show up at Longbourn - fantastic!
I think this is now my new favorite from author (sorry The Widow Elizabeth...)!
October 29, 2025
Confused Lizzy falls in love with stupid Darcy
Darcy will not be forced to marry his cousin Anne so his father and his two uncles decide to toss him out of Pemberley. Worse, that leaves Wickham there.
Darcy is book smart but worldly stupid and puts up with this. All through the story he does something stupid or can’t figure anything out. He depends on his honor to guide him.
Ok read but the plot is maddening in a number of places.
Darcy will not be forced to marry his cousin Anne so his father and his two uncles decide to toss him out of Pemberley. Worse, that leaves Wickham there.
Darcy is book smart but worldly stupid and puts up with this. All through the story he does something stupid or can’t figure anything out. He depends on his honor to guide him.
Ok read but the plot is maddening in a number of places.
January 22, 2024
On snowy January day this story was absolutely perfect !
Imagining Fitzwilliam Darcy owning a bookshop was inviting to say the least:)
Darcy has left Pemberly after arguments with his father and uncles. They say his father will disinherit him if he does not marry Anne!
So he takes what money he can and items he can sell . Then he buys the bookshop and sleeps above it.
This Darcy is quite poor but far more romantic in this story. From the moment he sees Elizabeth step out of her uncle’s carriage he is immediately besotted.
Though when she notices him she is sure beautiful Jane has caught his eye! She continues to think that on a visit to the bookshop and a few other times. For quite a while.
Eventually he tries to make clear his interest in her but she misunderstands. She makes him aware that her sister has no dowry nor she. And advises him that if he had planned to advance himself by marrying either sister it would not happen!
So he invents different ways to have her return for special books for her father. And books for her uncle too .
It is rich and delightful when he appears at the Gardiners home with a selection of books for Mrs Gardiner to chose from as a Christmas gift for her husband.
Adorably, Lizzy literally falls into his arms on that visit.
There are no insults in this book and only a few misunderstandings.
Our usual characters appear. Some very different. Like a strong healthy Anne who is quite amusing.
Good news Lady Catherine is gone before this story begins !
I really enjoyed this one and was sorry to finish. Though the end was very satisfying:)
◦
Imagining Fitzwilliam Darcy owning a bookshop was inviting to say the least:)
Darcy has left Pemberly after arguments with his father and uncles. They say his father will disinherit him if he does not marry Anne!
So he takes what money he can and items he can sell . Then he buys the bookshop and sleeps above it.
This Darcy is quite poor but far more romantic in this story. From the moment he sees Elizabeth step out of her uncle’s carriage he is immediately besotted.
Though when she notices him she is sure beautiful Jane has caught his eye! She continues to think that on a visit to the bookshop and a few other times. For quite a while.
Eventually he tries to make clear his interest in her but she misunderstands. She makes him aware that her sister has no dowry nor she. And advises him that if he had planned to advance himself by marrying either sister it would not happen!
So he invents different ways to have her return for special books for her father. And books for her uncle too .
It is rich and delightful when he appears at the Gardiners home with a selection of books for Mrs Gardiner to chose from as a Christmas gift for her husband.
Adorably, Lizzy literally falls into his arms on that visit.
There are no insults in this book and only a few misunderstandings.
Our usual characters appear. Some very different. Like a strong healthy Anne who is quite amusing.
Good news Lady Catherine is gone before this story begins !
I really enjoyed this one and was sorry to finish. Though the end was very satisfying:)
◦
October 4, 2024
“What had begun as a show of defiance against his father, the selling of his personal possessions to purchase this shop, had become the firmest resolution Darcy had ever made. He would marry for love, not for his father’s and uncle’s money.” (quote from the book)
This variation has a unique twist that intrigued me. Fitzwilliam Darcy refuses to marry his cousin, Anne de Bourgh and he breaks with his father and two uncles over it. What are the consequences of their actions and how does this impact his first impressions with Miss Elizabeth Bennet?
Shortly after finishing this book at the end of August, I was unable to write my review with all my first impressions fresh in my mind. I do know that I enjoyed the twists and turns in this story. Mr. Wickham is clever in his manipulations of Mr. George Darcy, but Anne de Bourgh is even more so in thwarting him.
I do recommend this variation as well as the prequel, The Adventures of Miss Anne de Bourgh of Rosings Park.
January 19, 2024
⇢ 4.5/5 ⭐️
Elizabeth was too lenient with Jane. She criticized and (imo) sabotaged ODC's relationship again and again. It almost seemed like she didn't want Elizabeth to have her happy ending.
Also, boo George Darcy, he was a disappointment till the end and didn't deserve his son.
Elizabeth was too lenient with Jane. She criticized and (imo) sabotaged ODC's relationship again and again. It almost seemed like she didn't want Elizabeth to have her happy ending.
Also, boo George Darcy, he was a disappointment till the end and didn't deserve his son.
January 26, 2024
Darcy would rather be in trade than marry his cousin. Luckily a ray of sunshine, in the shape of Elizabeth Bennet enters his life.
I liked the story but for as evil as Wickham is, I didn’t care for his resolution. Mrs Bennet is awful and I had to skip past some of her scenes.
I liked the story but for as evil as Wickham is, I didn’t care for his resolution. Mrs Bennet is awful and I had to skip past some of her scenes.
November 9, 2025
Third read November 9, 2025
This has become a favorite.
Reread December 19, 2024
My only change on this latest reading is to boost my rating from 4.5 to 5 stars. This was a reread less than a year after my first reading, and I love this story.
Review February 5, 2024
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, which is only broadly based on the original, the story opens with Mr. Darcy as the owner of a London bookshop, somewhere in Cheapside. He's not doing well, wears worn and mended suits, and scrimps on such things as food and a new blanket, and even tallow candles. But he has managed to gain a reputation with certain gentlemen as a decent purveyor of books. His clientele includes Mr. Bennet of Longbourn in Hertfordshire, and Mr. Edward Gardiner, a tradesman living near Cheapside.
Some background is revealed as the story moves along. The mothers of the three cousins, Mr. Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Miss Anne de Bourgh are all deceased. Their fathers are still living and all have remained determined that Darcy will marry his cousin Anne. His father seems to adore young George Wickham, and to take his word over his own son's. So, when Darcy came of age, several years before the story opens, the pressure to marry Anne increased. He refused, and as a result his allowance was cut off and he began to fear he'd be coerced into the marriage against his will. That was when he left home, sold many of his personal belongings, and bought a bookshop.
His life has been made financially dreary as a result of his determination not to marry against his inclinations, even more so since his father and uncles have worked to make his business unpopular amongst the ton. Dreary, that is, until Miss Elizabeth Bennet walks into the bookshop.
This is a sometimes funny and occasionally horrifying variation on the story, but oh so interesting, and a good deviation from the original plot. The characterizations, while over the top for some of the regulars in humorous and sometimes shocking ways, seem spot on for Elizabeth and Darcy, and it's interesting how he meets Charles Bingley by way of Wickham.
This has become a favorite.
Reread December 19, 2024
My only change on this latest reading is to boost my rating from 4.5 to 5 stars. This was a reread less than a year after my first reading, and I love this story.
Review February 5, 2024
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, which is only broadly based on the original, the story opens with Mr. Darcy as the owner of a London bookshop, somewhere in Cheapside. He's not doing well, wears worn and mended suits, and scrimps on such things as food and a new blanket, and even tallow candles. But he has managed to gain a reputation with certain gentlemen as a decent purveyor of books. His clientele includes Mr. Bennet of Longbourn in Hertfordshire, and Mr. Edward Gardiner, a tradesman living near Cheapside.
Some background is revealed as the story moves along. The mothers of the three cousins, Mr. Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Miss Anne de Bourgh are all deceased. Their fathers are still living and all have remained determined that Darcy will marry his cousin Anne. His father seems to adore young George Wickham, and to take his word over his own son's. So, when Darcy came of age, several years before the story opens, the pressure to marry Anne increased. He refused, and as a result his allowance was cut off and he began to fear he'd be coerced into the marriage against his will. That was when he left home, sold many of his personal belongings, and bought a bookshop.
His life has been made financially dreary as a result of his determination not to marry against his inclinations, even more so since his father and uncles have worked to make his business unpopular amongst the ton. Dreary, that is, until Miss Elizabeth Bennet walks into the bookshop.
This is a sometimes funny and occasionally horrifying variation on the story, but oh so interesting, and a good deviation from the original plot. The characterizations, while over the top for some of the regulars in humorous and sometimes shocking ways, seem spot on for Elizabeth and Darcy, and it's interesting how he meets Charles Bingley by way of Wickham.
October 10, 2025
I thought the idea was solid and the overall feeling was charming!
January 31, 2024
I cannot live without books ... ~ Thomas Jefferson
I read the prequel to this story — The Adventures of Miss Anne de Bourgh — but I confess when I began this book, I was surprised by the changes from Anne from canon P&P.
I had forgotten the books were intended to be read together.
Once I got my head right, I enjoyed knowing Anne as an adult in this story.
The premise is simple: Darcy has left his father’s influence and set himself up as a tradesman, specifically, as the impoverished owner of a bookshop. He refuses to obey the dictates from his father and his uncles that he marry Anne. When he meets the Bennet sisters, he is seen as a poor man, educated through he is.
Meanwhile, back at Pemberley, George Wickham is doing all he can to convince the elder Darcy to disinherit his son, in favor of his godson. George’s specialties include lying, stealing, and cheating.
Can young Darcy protect his father and sister from George’s schemes?
Can he fall in love at the same time?
I loved this story.
Every man likes to be his own librarian ... ~ Thomas Frognall Dibdin
I read the prequel to this story — The Adventures of Miss Anne de Bourgh — but I confess when I began this book, I was surprised by the changes from Anne from canon P&P.
I had forgotten the books were intended to be read together.
Once I got my head right, I enjoyed knowing Anne as an adult in this story.
The premise is simple: Darcy has left his father’s influence and set himself up as a tradesman, specifically, as the impoverished owner of a bookshop. He refuses to obey the dictates from his father and his uncles that he marry Anne. When he meets the Bennet sisters, he is seen as a poor man, educated through he is.
Meanwhile, back at Pemberley, George Wickham is doing all he can to convince the elder Darcy to disinherit his son, in favor of his godson. George’s specialties include lying, stealing, and cheating.
Can young Darcy protect his father and sister from George’s schemes?
Can he fall in love at the same time?
I loved this story.
Every man likes to be his own librarian ... ~ Thomas Frognall Dibdin
January 26, 2024
Avid Reader
I stayed up until 3:00 A. M. reading this book. How many years did Fitzwilliam Darcy toil as a bookshop seller because he didn't want to marry his cousin Anne? Wickham, George Darcy, Sir Lewis, and the Earl of Matlock made sure that Darcy lived in poverty for some time. It took the near death of his father for Darcy to return to Pemberly, and his father still didn't believe Darcy and the Colonel until an attempt was made against Georgina. Elizabeth loved Darcy, and he loved her. Jane was the one sour note. She meets Bingley, and they instantly fall in love. Jane was always against Darcy from day one as not being good enough for Elizabeth, although they had no dowries.
I stayed up until 3:00 A. M. reading this book. How many years did Fitzwilliam Darcy toil as a bookshop seller because he didn't want to marry his cousin Anne? Wickham, George Darcy, Sir Lewis, and the Earl of Matlock made sure that Darcy lived in poverty for some time. It took the near death of his father for Darcy to return to Pemberly, and his father still didn't believe Darcy and the Colonel until an attempt was made against Georgina. Elizabeth loved Darcy, and he loved her. Jane was the one sour note. She meets Bingley, and they instantly fall in love. Jane was always against Darcy from day one as not being good enough for Elizabeth, although they had no dowries.
January 19, 2024
Not my cuppa tea
Two stars for very fine writing. As the book summary indicates, young Darcy is exiled from Pemberly for his refusal to marry Anne Debourgh as ordered by his father, Sir Lewis Debourgh, and the Earl of Matlock. Darcy Jr makes his own way in the world as the proprietor of a bookshop in London, in Cheapside. Wickham insinuates himself into Darcy Sr's favor, and does all he can to become the next heir to Pemberly, and to make Darcy Jr's life difficult.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth and Jane Bennett go to stay with the Gardiners in London in order to escape the advances of Mr Collins. While there they visit the bookshop where Elizabeth is immediately impressed by Darcy, and where Jane eventually meets Mr Bingley. As per usual, Bingley is immediately smitten with Jane, and she with him.
I loved the idea of a bookshop, and Darcy running it, so had high hopes for the premise. Unfortunately, neither Darcy nor Elizabeth is the beloved characters we know from the original P&P. At Elizabeth's first encounter with Darcy, she little more than a brat, and goes on to become way too Lydia-like. Instead of kind and a little pert, she's brash, confrontational, bossy, and rude. Darcy decides on Elizabeth before he's even met her, and is portrayed as kind of a dunderhead. Not our intelligent and cautious man at all.
Many other characters are so cartoonish, particularly the Bennetts, and the situations become so ludicrous, that I couldn't help but be disappointed with how very silly the whole story became. I really did not like Jane, and Jane and Bingley together were so feather-brained that I pitied their future children. I started to skim large parts of the text just so that I could get to the end of this annoying book, and that's not a good sign.
Although the book is well written and well edited, I don't recommend it.
Two stars for very fine writing. As the book summary indicates, young Darcy is exiled from Pemberly for his refusal to marry Anne Debourgh as ordered by his father, Sir Lewis Debourgh, and the Earl of Matlock. Darcy Jr makes his own way in the world as the proprietor of a bookshop in London, in Cheapside. Wickham insinuates himself into Darcy Sr's favor, and does all he can to become the next heir to Pemberly, and to make Darcy Jr's life difficult.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth and Jane Bennett go to stay with the Gardiners in London in order to escape the advances of Mr Collins. While there they visit the bookshop where Elizabeth is immediately impressed by Darcy, and where Jane eventually meets Mr Bingley. As per usual, Bingley is immediately smitten with Jane, and she with him.
I loved the idea of a bookshop, and Darcy running it, so had high hopes for the premise. Unfortunately, neither Darcy nor Elizabeth is the beloved characters we know from the original P&P. At Elizabeth's first encounter with Darcy, she little more than a brat, and goes on to become way too Lydia-like. Instead of kind and a little pert, she's brash, confrontational, bossy, and rude. Darcy decides on Elizabeth before he's even met her, and is portrayed as kind of a dunderhead. Not our intelligent and cautious man at all.
Many other characters are so cartoonish, particularly the Bennetts, and the situations become so ludicrous, that I couldn't help but be disappointed with how very silly the whole story became. I really did not like Jane, and Jane and Bingley together were so feather-brained that I pitied their future children. I started to skim large parts of the text just so that I could get to the end of this annoying book, and that's not a good sign.
Although the book is well written and well edited, I don't recommend it.
June 12, 2024
Status: Read June 5-12, 2024 via audible edition
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5)
Review:
Unique and well written variation—would recommend!
My Library Notes:
Mr. Darcy's Bookshop: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
by Summer Hanford, Stevie Zimmerman (Narrator), Benjamin Fife (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 11 pages
Published May 16, 2024 by Summer Hanford (first published January 14, 2024)
ASIN: B0D47T4FMV
Cut off from his family’s fortune because he refuses to marry the woman his father has selected for him, Fitzwilliam Darcy takes up the only employment he deems tolerable, that of bookseller. Darcy is determined to support himself and to marry for love, but his powerful relations use their clout to keep customers and fashionable young ladies away. Worse, Darcy’s absence from Pemberley allows treachery to flourish. Determined to see her older sister marry as well as possible, Elizabeth Bennet orchestrates their removal to London.
Elizabeth isn’t searching for a husband of her own, but she is always looking for a good book. At a pleasant little bookshop in Cheapside, she finds plenty to read, and so much more. But should she give her heart to a bookseller and leave the life of a gently bred lady behind?
Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop asks what would happen if George Darcy and Sir Lewis de Bourgh had lived, and taken up their deceased wives’ quest to see Darcy and Anne wed. This is a lighthearted variation with laughter, love, a touch of villainy, and a happily ever after for our dear couple.
Listening Length: 10 hours and 45 minutes
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5)
Review:
Unique and well written variation—would recommend!
My Library Notes:
Mr. Darcy's Bookshop: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
by Summer Hanford, Stevie Zimmerman (Narrator), Benjamin Fife (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 11 pages
Published May 16, 2024 by Summer Hanford (first published January 14, 2024)
ASIN: B0D47T4FMV
Cut off from his family’s fortune because he refuses to marry the woman his father has selected for him, Fitzwilliam Darcy takes up the only employment he deems tolerable, that of bookseller. Darcy is determined to support himself and to marry for love, but his powerful relations use their clout to keep customers and fashionable young ladies away. Worse, Darcy’s absence from Pemberley allows treachery to flourish. Determined to see her older sister marry as well as possible, Elizabeth Bennet orchestrates their removal to London.
Elizabeth isn’t searching for a husband of her own, but she is always looking for a good book. At a pleasant little bookshop in Cheapside, she finds plenty to read, and so much more. But should she give her heart to a bookseller and leave the life of a gently bred lady behind?
Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop asks what would happen if George Darcy and Sir Lewis de Bourgh had lived, and taken up their deceased wives’ quest to see Darcy and Anne wed. This is a lighthearted variation with laughter, love, a touch of villainy, and a happily ever after for our dear couple.
Listening Length: 10 hours and 45 minutes
December 15, 2024
There are many changes from canon in this story. Dead Lady Catherine, alive Lewis de bourgh, healthy and hearty Anne, not so shy Georgiana, alive Mr. Darcy sr., poor Mr. Darcy jr., more steadfast Bingley, sober and useful Hurst, a strict Jane (but only with Elizabeth and never with her worse younger sisters, I wonder why) But all these add to the enjoyment of the story. The way Elizabeth and Darcy fall for each other was very sweet and the way Darcy is abused by his father, both physically and mentally, really makes your blood boil. And Wickham, he is at his worst ever in this and still manages to get away with everything. I wonder why many authors think transportation to another country is a fitting punishment for Wickham, why should those innocent people suffer for the misplaced sympathy of the Darcys? Badly done! Otherwise, I loved the story. And you'll have an unexpected favourite competing with our Colonel, Anne de bourgh, this Anne is so much fun and definitely needs her own book, which I'll make sure to read real soon.
March 14, 2024
Less Pride & Staunch Principles
I really enjoyed reading this story, reading beyond the sometimes incredible aspects of it. With canon Darcy's pride taken away, as well as canon Elizabeth's prejudice for the underdog, ODC have an immediate connection. No or little intrapersonal angst for ODC is one of my favourite things to find in P&P variations. I like it when their problems come from external sources as they do in this story. I also liked their characters here. I did not like Jane, and can imagine a parallel story where her actions and motives can be elucidated.
It was handy for me to have read the prequel, The Adventures of Miss Anne de Bourgh of Rosings; otherwise Anne's non-canon character may have been quite odd in this book, as well as missing references to 'principles'.
I really enjoyed reading this story, reading beyond the sometimes incredible aspects of it. With canon Darcy's pride taken away, as well as canon Elizabeth's prejudice for the underdog, ODC have an immediate connection. No or little intrapersonal angst for ODC is one of my favourite things to find in P&P variations. I like it when their problems come from external sources as they do in this story. I also liked their characters here. I did not like Jane, and can imagine a parallel story where her actions and motives can be elucidated.
It was handy for me to have read the prequel, The Adventures of Miss Anne de Bourgh of Rosings; otherwise Anne's non-canon character may have been quite odd in this book, as well as missing references to 'principles'.
January 31, 2024
Perfection.
Sequel! Sequel!!! Please. Oh my goodness this was an awesome story. I know that word is overused but any other superlatives I would use would be just as overused and not nearly enough.
I can’t wait for the audio version. Highly recommended. 5+********
Sequel! Sequel!!! Please. Oh my goodness this was an awesome story. I know that word is overused but any other superlatives I would use would be just as overused and not nearly enough.
I can’t wait for the audio version. Highly recommended. 5+********
October 17, 2024
Review Published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
The Adventures of Miss Anne de Bourgh of Rosings is a prequel to Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop and it was one of my favorite short stories last year, so I could not wait to read this full length book that reimagines Pride & Prejudice in a unique, fresh and delightful manner.
In Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop Mr. Darcy senior is alive, and he is so insistent on having his son marry Anne de Bourgh, that young Mr. Darcy is forced to abandon his home, family and friends and open a bookshop to be able to survive without the financial support of his father. Estranged from his family, it is in his London bookshop that he meets and befriends Charles Bingley, sees Miss Bingley’s true colors and falls in love with Elizabeth Bennet.
I absolutely loved Mr. Darcy’s character because he is not just an honorable gentleman who is unafraid to fight for his principles, he is someone who has to struggle to survive, who gets humbled by his circumstances, who is intelligent and kind despite the hardships he faces, and who has a unique opportunity to look at people and see who they truly are when they think he is a poor tradesman. He is the perfect romantic hero: kind, intelligent, and mysterious, so it is no wonder that Elizabeth Bennet falls hard in love with him. Her character is also perfect because she is resolved, witty and when put to a test chooses love over wealth.
I loved the plotline of this book and the main characters, but also the secondary characters because every single one of them brought something to the narrative. Mr. Darcy senior had to overcome his blindness concerning Wickham, Georgiana is not so naïve as one would expect and despite her propensity to see the good in everyone, she is also prone to take action, Jane Bennet has opinions of her own and is more fierce in this book than we are used to, Mary is not just a pious lady, she is determined to be happy and to fight for her happiness, Mr. Bingley is true to himself, but is also the driver that allowed the romance between Elizabeth and Darcy to grow, the Gardiners are quietly in the background helping the plot develop and Anne’s eccentricity makes the book quite fun when humor is needed. In sum, all characters and small details in this book make it an exceptional story 😊
The pacing of the story is perfect without a dull moment to slow it down, and the fact that the point of view of each chapter alternates between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy gives the book a dynamism that makes it unputdownable.
The romance between Elizabeth and Darcy was also a pleasure to see developed. It was unique, sweet but also strong and although this book pays homage to Pride & Prejudice, it stands firmly on its own, not only in the plotline but especially on the romance that was crafted in a different and fresh manner.
With its well-paced plot, finely drawn characters, and intriguing twists, Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop is a story that stays with you long after the final page is turned. It is probably the best book I’ve read this year, and I highly recommend it.
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
The Adventures of Miss Anne de Bourgh of Rosings is a prequel to Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop and it was one of my favorite short stories last year, so I could not wait to read this full length book that reimagines Pride & Prejudice in a unique, fresh and delightful manner.
In Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop Mr. Darcy senior is alive, and he is so insistent on having his son marry Anne de Bourgh, that young Mr. Darcy is forced to abandon his home, family and friends and open a bookshop to be able to survive without the financial support of his father. Estranged from his family, it is in his London bookshop that he meets and befriends Charles Bingley, sees Miss Bingley’s true colors and falls in love with Elizabeth Bennet.
I absolutely loved Mr. Darcy’s character because he is not just an honorable gentleman who is unafraid to fight for his principles, he is someone who has to struggle to survive, who gets humbled by his circumstances, who is intelligent and kind despite the hardships he faces, and who has a unique opportunity to look at people and see who they truly are when they think he is a poor tradesman. He is the perfect romantic hero: kind, intelligent, and mysterious, so it is no wonder that Elizabeth Bennet falls hard in love with him. Her character is also perfect because she is resolved, witty and when put to a test chooses love over wealth.
I loved the plotline of this book and the main characters, but also the secondary characters because every single one of them brought something to the narrative. Mr. Darcy senior had to overcome his blindness concerning Wickham, Georgiana is not so naïve as one would expect and despite her propensity to see the good in everyone, she is also prone to take action, Jane Bennet has opinions of her own and is more fierce in this book than we are used to, Mary is not just a pious lady, she is determined to be happy and to fight for her happiness, Mr. Bingley is true to himself, but is also the driver that allowed the romance between Elizabeth and Darcy to grow, the Gardiners are quietly in the background helping the plot develop and Anne’s eccentricity makes the book quite fun when humor is needed. In sum, all characters and small details in this book make it an exceptional story 😊
The pacing of the story is perfect without a dull moment to slow it down, and the fact that the point of view of each chapter alternates between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy gives the book a dynamism that makes it unputdownable.
The romance between Elizabeth and Darcy was also a pleasure to see developed. It was unique, sweet but also strong and although this book pays homage to Pride & Prejudice, it stands firmly on its own, not only in the plotline but especially on the romance that was crafted in a different and fresh manner.
With its well-paced plot, finely drawn characters, and intriguing twists, Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop is a story that stays with you long after the final page is turned. It is probably the best book I’ve read this year, and I highly recommend it.
January 18, 2024
Mr. Darcy’s Bookshop by Summer Hanford was a wonderfully different Pride and Prejudice variation. Ms. Hanford took several plot points of the original and twisted them around. The fathers of Fitzwilliam Darcy and Anne de Bourgh are still alive, while their mothers have passed. The fathers, along with the earl, are pushing hard for Anne and Fitzwilliam to marry. Fitzwilliam has been cut off from his family as a result of his refusal, and is running a bookshop to survive. Wickham is a thorn in Fitzwilliam’s side, as Wickham is working hard to replace Fitzwilliam as a favored son. Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam see each in a market and are instantly attracted. The story goes from there.
This book was not just another rehash of the original storylines that Jane Austen did so wonderfully. I loved the large number of “what if’s” in this story. There is a prequel to this book about Anne de Bourgh that I have not yet read, but plan to read very soon. She was a delightful character that was not seen frequently in the book. Jane Bennet was an interesting character. I became very frustrated with her, but in the end, that frustration was because she was right.
I recommend this book to all Pride and Prejudice variation lovers. The concept of a regency era Fitzwilliam Darcy owning a bookshop is unique. The author depicts it as a rough way to live, but honestly, isn’t running a bookshop a dream for most of us?
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was not just another rehash of the original storylines that Jane Austen did so wonderfully. I loved the large number of “what if’s” in this story. There is a prequel to this book about Anne de Bourgh that I have not yet read, but plan to read very soon. She was a delightful character that was not seen frequently in the book. Jane Bennet was an interesting character. I became very frustrated with her, but in the end, that frustration was because she was right.
I recommend this book to all Pride and Prejudice variation lovers. The concept of a regency era Fitzwilliam Darcy owning a bookshop is unique. The author depicts it as a rough way to live, but honestly, isn’t running a bookshop a dream for most of us?
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 15, 2024
What I liked the most about this book was the originality of the premise. This is a Darcy who has been humbled, not by Elizabeth, but by his deliberate choice to set aside his wealth in a principled stance. Having lived for several years now as someone who has to struggle to afford his tea leaves, he approaches Elizabeth not as an arrogant snob but as someone who fears he can never aspire to her hand. The result was a Darcy who reacts quite differently to everyone, yet this to me seems to be a Darcy who is very much in character, given the principles of the original character in canon.
I did think that Darcy should object more strenuously to the decision his father made at the end of the book. In fact, I think it would be a significant obstacle to them ever fully reconciling. It was like his own father had slapped him in the face all over again, given how badly George Darcy had already wronged him. Anne de Bourgh, I'm with you on this one!
I did think that Darcy should object more strenuously to the decision his father made at the end of the book. In fact, I think it would be a significant obstacle to them ever fully reconciling. It was like his own father had slapped him in the face all over again, given how badly George Darcy had already wronged him. Anne de Bourgh, I'm with you on this one!
January 19, 2024
Love
Love at any level of society. An evil Wickham. When a misunderstanding and intercepted letters keep Darcy from returning home, he becomes a bookseller. Loved the story. Will definitely read the prequel about Anne!
Love at any level of society. An evil Wickham. When a misunderstanding and intercepted letters keep Darcy from returning home, he becomes a bookseller. Loved the story. Will definitely read the prequel about Anne!
January 21, 2024
Totally original
An extremely entertaining consisting of a triumvirate comprised of Mr. Darcy Sr., Mr. Lewis DeBourgh and the Earl of Matlock creating havoc in our dead boy's life. Completely worthwhile!
An extremely entertaining consisting of a triumvirate comprised of Mr. Darcy Sr., Mr. Lewis DeBourgh and the Earl of Matlock creating havoc in our dead boy's life. Completely worthwhile!
January 27, 2024
I truly enjoyed reading this JAFF variation, savoring every moment. And what I loved the most was how Darcy and Elizabeth never had a big blowup argument like the Hunsford proposal. Just a lovely, wonderful story.
October 9, 2025
Strangest riff on P&P yet!
This story comes from Opposite World. Everything
is backwards from what we know--Darcy's father is alive, Anne's horrendous mother is not, Caroline Bingley ends up with Wickham, a disowned Fitzwilliam Darcy is forced to live as a bookseller, and instead of being meek and fragile, Anne is a bizarre tomboy.
I'm disappointed that Wickham doesn't hang in the end but everything else pans out as expected.
This story comes from Opposite World. Everything
is backwards from what we know--Darcy's father is alive, Anne's horrendous mother is not, Caroline Bingley ends up with Wickham, a disowned Fitzwilliam Darcy is forced to live as a bookseller, and instead of being meek and fragile, Anne is a bizarre tomboy.
I'm disappointed that Wickham doesn't hang in the end but everything else pans out as expected.
October 7, 2025
Amazing! I loved this retelling.
Darcy and Elizabeth ,set and he is a bookshop owner how perfect is that. I really liked that it still had elements of pride and prejudice but was a story on its on. And as ever that slimeball Wickham is a genuine slimeball hahah. He irritated me greatly. Which is just good writing if you ask me. I will be reading this again and soon I’m sure.
Darcy and Elizabeth ,set and he is a bookshop owner how perfect is that. I really liked that it still had elements of pride and prejudice but was a story on its on. And as ever that slimeball Wickham is a genuine slimeball hahah. He irritated me greatly. Which is just good writing if you ask me. I will be reading this again and soon I’m sure.
January 28, 2024
I really liked this variation! Lots of cute Darcy moments with a shy-ish Darcy instead of an uber proud Darcy. I liked some of the changes to Wickham's storyline too. How can you go wrong with a bookshop?
January 29, 2024
A very clever non-canon plot, enjoyable to read, except for the ending, where justice was not served. 4.5 stars rounded up.
October 30, 2025
What a lovely tale! I had added it to near the end of my TBR challenge this year in anticipation, and it was worth every eager moment's wait!
October 17, 2025
I really enjoyed the first part of this book especially the characterizaton of Anne de Bourgh as hale and healthy and rather rough and tumble. From about the midpoint to the end though it really dragged for me so I skipped ahead.
May 15, 2024
Couldn’t sleep so I read this. Really cute- a 3.5 rounded up
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