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Rising Courage
An insulting proposal. A band of criminals. Can they fight off their kidnappers and find their way to happily ever after?
Elizabeth Bennet is seething. Firmly refusing an offer of marriage from the man who ruined her beloved sister’s chance at happiness, the spirited young lady goes walking to clear her head. But her anger changes to fear when three strange men who believe she’s Anne de Bourgh throw her unceremoniously into a carriage and drive off.
Fitzwilliam Darcy regrets his offensive proposal. But when he chases down the object of his affection to set the story straight, he is horrified to witness her kidnapping. And after his gallant rescue endeavor merely gets him captured too, he worries revealing her true identity could get them both killed.
Bristling at her forced proximity to her spurned suitor, Elizabeth is pleasantly surprised at how well they work together. But even as they disagree on whether or not to risk an escape, Darcy suspects their survival may not lead to him winning her heart.
Can they fix their cascade of misunderstandings to find happily ever after?
Elizabeth Bennet is seething. Firmly refusing an offer of marriage from the man who ruined her beloved sister’s chance at happiness, the spirited young lady goes walking to clear her head. But her anger changes to fear when three strange men who believe she’s Anne de Bourgh throw her unceremoniously into a carriage and drive off.
Fitzwilliam Darcy regrets his offensive proposal. But when he chases down the object of his affection to set the story straight, he is horrified to witness her kidnapping. And after his gallant rescue endeavor merely gets him captured too, he worries revealing her true identity could get them both killed.
Bristling at her forced proximity to her spurned suitor, Elizabeth is pleasantly surprised at how well they work together. But even as they disagree on whether or not to risk an escape, Darcy suspects their survival may not lead to him winning her heart.
Can they fix their cascade of misunderstandings to find happily ever after?
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2024
186 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
March 11, 2024
The book was a 5+ till
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2024
I received an ARC of this story and am writing a review voluntarily.
There is a lot of angst in this story, and we actually have double trouble which ODC encounter and have to overcome.
I do have to warn that this is a MA rated story as we are given details in several encounters.
Lady Catherine plays a much more bad guy/gal part in this variation, and it is she who is actually responsible for what befalls Darcy and Elizabeth.
This story is well written, IMHO. I loved being in the minds of both Elizabeth and Darcy. As the story begins Darcy is out walking looking to give Elizabeth "that letter" after her response to his proposal. He sees her being kidnapped and rushes to aid her. They are both captured and immediately learn that the criminals think she is Anne de Bourgh. They play along as it is evident that the kidnappers will just as soon kill her as let her go if they learn she is not Anne.
As the story progresses and E. seems to be falling in love with him, Darcy is shaken to find she still believes what Wickham told her about Darcy (He has not given her the letter.) and then he has to question himself as to whether he blames Wickham more for his lie or Elizabeth for believing him and still wanting an explanation.
Darcy's best side comes out as he offers to sponsor the nephew of the kidnapping gang's leader, a 12-year-old boy who relates how he really wants to study law, not work for his uncle. That thread adds another dimension to the story.
I have always enjoyed this author's story and highly recommend this one. I left out a lot of details not wanting to SPOIL the story for others.
There is a lot of angst in this story, and we actually have double trouble which ODC encounter and have to overcome.
I do have to warn that this is a MA rated story as we are given details in several encounters.
Lady Catherine plays a much more bad guy/gal part in this variation, and it is she who is actually responsible for what befalls Darcy and Elizabeth.
This story is well written, IMHO. I loved being in the minds of both Elizabeth and Darcy. As the story begins Darcy is out walking looking to give Elizabeth "that letter" after her response to his proposal. He sees her being kidnapped and rushes to aid her. They are both captured and immediately learn that the criminals think she is Anne de Bourgh. They play along as it is evident that the kidnappers will just as soon kill her as let her go if they learn she is not Anne.
As the story progresses and E. seems to be falling in love with him, Darcy is shaken to find she still believes what Wickham told her about Darcy (He has not given her the letter.) and then he has to question himself as to whether he blames Wickham more for his lie or Elizabeth for believing him and still wanting an explanation.
Darcy's best side comes out as he offers to sponsor the nephew of the kidnapping gang's leader, a 12-year-old boy who relates how he really wants to study law, not work for his uncle. That thread adds another dimension to the story.
I have always enjoyed this author's story and highly recommend this one. I left out a lot of details not wanting to SPOIL the story for others.
March 11, 2024
I agree completely with Anna's review - the first part of this book is excellent, but there are just too many plot blunders in the rest.
Elizabeth, mistaken for Anne de Bourgh, is kidnapped while walking the grounds of Rosings the morning after she refused Darcy's marriage proposal. Darcy, looking for Elizabeth nearby to deliver his letter, hears her crying out and rushes to her defense but instead is abducted along with her.
Both the premise and the resulting situation are well imagined and executed, evoking both the terror of their imprisonment and the comfort Darcy and Elizabeth find in each other while locked alone together throughout most of their ordeal. And, from a plot standpoint, it's wonderfully believable that their escape plan doesn't work out exactly as they'd hoped.
After they get away, things go wonky in a number of ways. I couldn't help but notice that, although the whole side of Elizabeth's face is described as horribly red and bruised from being struck VERY forcefully by one of her abductors, it is never mentioned again from the time she and Darcy escape - which is only a day later. The two engage in marital relations before they're even betrothed, but neither expresses any concern about a possible pregnancy.
The worst is their plan to flush out the ringleader. Neither Elizabeth nor Darcy could come up with a better way after spending days thinking about it, and Colonel Fitzwilliam doesn't suggest a saner alternative, either. As I was reading, a couple of other possibilities occurred to me.
Lastly, a scene near the end describes Darcy and Elizabeth in bed. Why? It doesn't add anything to the story, and even the earlier bedroom scene was far less detailed.
It's a good book as long as you don't think too much about the credibility of the latter half.
Elizabeth, mistaken for Anne de Bourgh, is kidnapped while walking the grounds of Rosings the morning after she refused Darcy's marriage proposal. Darcy, looking for Elizabeth nearby to deliver his letter, hears her crying out and rushes to her defense but instead is abducted along with her.
Both the premise and the resulting situation are well imagined and executed, evoking both the terror of their imprisonment and the comfort Darcy and Elizabeth find in each other while locked alone together throughout most of their ordeal. And, from a plot standpoint, it's wonderfully believable that their escape plan doesn't work out exactly as they'd hoped.
After they get away, things go wonky in a number of ways. I couldn't help but notice that, although the whole side of Elizabeth's face is described as horribly red and bruised from being struck VERY forcefully by one of her abductors, it is never mentioned again from the time she and Darcy escape - which is only a day later. The two engage in marital relations before they're even betrothed, but neither expresses any concern about a possible pregnancy.
The worst is their plan to flush out the ringleader. Neither Elizabeth nor Darcy could come up with a better way after spending days thinking about it, and Colonel Fitzwilliam doesn't suggest a saner alternative, either. As I was reading, a couple of other possibilities occurred to me.
Lastly, a scene near the end describes Darcy and Elizabeth in bed. Why? It doesn't add anything to the story, and even the earlier bedroom scene was far less detailed.
It's a good book as long as you don't think too much about the credibility of the latter half.
March 1, 2024
Gripping Nail Biter
This riveting Pride and Prejudice variation begins just after Darcy’s failed proposal to Elizabeth at Hunsford. With his infamous letter explaining his actions in hand and intending to give it to her, he observes her being abducted and rushes to help. They are ultimately both taken by men without scruples or morals, who would not hesitate to kill them if they felt it necessary. It's all a matter of mistaken identity; they think she is Anne de Bourgh. Now they must hide the fact that she is not. Who would want to kidnap Anne? Why?
The novel is not without a strong measure of angst and some violence towards our dear couple. Elizabeth appears to have lost a bit of her 'courage rises with every attempt to intimate her' persona due to the way they have been treated. She knows this is a serious situation and wishes to do as their kidnappers say, thinking it will keep them safe. Darcy, in fierce protective mode, wants to try and escape or at least plan a way for her to do so. Not yet in agreement on how they might extricate themselves from this dire situation, and not exactly on friendly terms since the proposal, they slowly begin to communicate with one another, letting go of past mistakes, coming to a new understanding—and devising a plan of escape. In the midst of their captivity, twelve-year-old Kirby, nephew to the villain, becomes an unexpected secret ally.
When they at last find freedom, Darcy discovers the danger still persists, with the villain determined to have his revenge. Despite dealing with some post traumatic distress, Elizabeth’s courage rises as she comes up with a new plan, knowing they will never be free of their threat unless he is brought to justice. Can she convince Darcy to go along with it?
A well written nail-biter you won’t want to put down, Heather Moll’s action-packed, thrilling and suspenseful plot, kept me completely engaged through to the very satisfying epilogue.
Highly recommend.
This book has mature themes due to violence and steamy content.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily providing a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
This riveting Pride and Prejudice variation begins just after Darcy’s failed proposal to Elizabeth at Hunsford. With his infamous letter explaining his actions in hand and intending to give it to her, he observes her being abducted and rushes to help. They are ultimately both taken by men without scruples or morals, who would not hesitate to kill them if they felt it necessary. It's all a matter of mistaken identity; they think she is Anne de Bourgh. Now they must hide the fact that she is not. Who would want to kidnap Anne? Why?
The novel is not without a strong measure of angst and some violence towards our dear couple. Elizabeth appears to have lost a bit of her 'courage rises with every attempt to intimate her' persona due to the way they have been treated. She knows this is a serious situation and wishes to do as their kidnappers say, thinking it will keep them safe. Darcy, in fierce protective mode, wants to try and escape or at least plan a way for her to do so. Not yet in agreement on how they might extricate themselves from this dire situation, and not exactly on friendly terms since the proposal, they slowly begin to communicate with one another, letting go of past mistakes, coming to a new understanding—and devising a plan of escape. In the midst of their captivity, twelve-year-old Kirby, nephew to the villain, becomes an unexpected secret ally.
When they at last find freedom, Darcy discovers the danger still persists, with the villain determined to have his revenge. Despite dealing with some post traumatic distress, Elizabeth’s courage rises as she comes up with a new plan, knowing they will never be free of their threat unless he is brought to justice. Can she convince Darcy to go along with it?
A well written nail-biter you won’t want to put down, Heather Moll’s action-packed, thrilling and suspenseful plot, kept me completely engaged through to the very satisfying epilogue.
Highly recommend.
This book has mature themes due to violence and steamy content.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily providing a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
March 20, 2025
There is intrigue, there is adventure, there is time for our dear girl to just about fall in love.
All this takes place in the space of 1 week and our favorite couple runs the gamut of all possible emotions in that short space of time.
The day following the Hunsford failure, Darcy tries to assist Elizabeth as she is being kidnapped. Mistakenly thought to be Anne de Burgh! Lady C. has a lot to answer for...
Elizabeth gets to know Darcy better, under dire circumstances, but it isn't neat or easy. Their captors are violent men who have no qualms in regards to life, death or taking what they want. During the times of quietude, serious discussions between D&E lead to better knowledge and understanding of each others characters.
Heightened emotions from their situation also heightens physical chemistry and once they think they are safe, there is anticipation of vows. (Those of you who know me are aware I am not a fan of this. 1- It usually takes place instead of storyline and 2- the once chaste, virtuous maiden is miraculously suddenly sexually aware of-everything!) While the second does happen in this book, the first does not. In fact it can almost be taken for a plot point.
As the story continues forward and there is far more angst to come, Elizabeth may need to deal with fallout: does she or doesn't she have a relationship with Darcy. And just when you think things will come to a happy conclusion there is more exciting, vicious drama for our poor couple to survive.
This is a well written book. The author's ability to lay the pieces down just right to build this story all the way to its happy conclusion makes it unputdownable.
4.5*
I received a free copy of this book for my honest opinion.
All this takes place in the space of 1 week and our favorite couple runs the gamut of all possible emotions in that short space of time.
The day following the Hunsford failure, Darcy tries to assist Elizabeth as she is being kidnapped. Mistakenly thought to be Anne de Burgh! Lady C. has a lot to answer for...
Elizabeth gets to know Darcy better, under dire circumstances, but it isn't neat or easy. Their captors are violent men who have no qualms in regards to life, death or taking what they want. During the times of quietude, serious discussions between D&E lead to better knowledge and understanding of each others characters.
Heightened emotions from their situation also heightens physical chemistry and once they think they are safe, there is anticipation of vows. (Those of you who know me are aware I am not a fan of this. 1- It usually takes place instead of storyline and 2- the once chaste, virtuous maiden is miraculously suddenly sexually aware of-everything!) While the second does happen in this book, the first does not. In fact it can almost be taken for a plot point.
As the story continues forward and there is far more angst to come, Elizabeth may need to deal with fallout: does she or doesn't she have a relationship with Darcy. And just when you think things will come to a happy conclusion there is more exciting, vicious drama for our poor couple to survive.
This is a well written book. The author's ability to lay the pieces down just right to build this story all the way to its happy conclusion makes it unputdownable.
4.5*
I received a free copy of this book for my honest opinion.
May 29, 2024
“Whenever a situation arises that creates fear, there are two alternatives—either [...] fight or [...] flight.” –Osho, Courage: The Joy of Living Dangerously
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mature: that is Mature with a capital ‘M’: violence, deaths, kidnapping, murder, vengeance, descriptions of death, smugglers, treason, revenge, brutal violence, sexual scenes [yeah, we entered the bedroom] that were graphic.
>>Angst Level: out the roof. Our characters never knew if they would live or die and their closest relatives were in danger. Whew!
>>Source: Borrowed through KU: I volunteered to leave a review. 22 chapters + Epilogue [4.5 stars]
>>Cover Art: look at that cover… that is an amazing couple. Is it AI-generated? It is beautiful.
>>Trope: [1] Trapped together, [2] Kidnapping.
>>Timeline: Post the DHP [Disastrous Hunsford Proposal] Darcy was on his way to deliver his letter when disaster struck.
“Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear.” Mark Twain
As the book blurb described, Miss Elizabeth Bennet, mistaken for Miss Anne de Bourgh, was kidnapped. Mr. Darcy, still recovering from his disastrous proposal, had spent most of the night writing a letter of explanation. He was walking the grove hoping to meet Miss Elizabeth when he saw a confrontation of her struggling against an unknown man. Darcy rushed to intervene, however, there were too many. Several carried guns while another wielded a knife to Miss Elizabeth’s throat. It was evident they only wanted her but Darcy convinced them to take him as well.
“Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.” Billy Graham
The rest of the story is about Elizabeth and Darcy working together to escape their captors. This was wave after wave of angst-filled action with deaths, mayhem, and many secrets revealed. The depth of the smugglers’ ring of terror along the coast of Kent was terrifying. Evil had free rein and ruled with a tight fist with deadly retribution for any who dared to cross or betray them. The cruelty of the villains was beyond imagining. I was stunned half of the time and could not put it down and read it straight through. I was not happy with some of the actions of ODC. I do not like to see that in JAFF but I went with it. I won’t go into detail but I thought it unnecessary. In many cases, the angst felt forced, and the misunderstandings between ODC were often silly and too much [especially after what happened between them]; however, it was a good story.
“Courage, above all things, is the first quality of a warrior.” Carl von Clausewitz
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mature: that is Mature with a capital ‘M’: violence, deaths, kidnapping, murder, vengeance, descriptions of death, smugglers, treason, revenge, brutal violence, sexual scenes [yeah, we entered the bedroom] that were graphic.
>>Angst Level: out the roof. Our characters never knew if they would live or die and their closest relatives were in danger. Whew!
>>Source: Borrowed through KU: I volunteered to leave a review. 22 chapters + Epilogue [4.5 stars]
>>Cover Art: look at that cover… that is an amazing couple. Is it AI-generated? It is beautiful.
>>Trope: [1] Trapped together, [2] Kidnapping.
>>Timeline: Post the DHP [Disastrous Hunsford Proposal] Darcy was on his way to deliver his letter when disaster struck.
“Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear.” Mark Twain
As the book blurb described, Miss Elizabeth Bennet, mistaken for Miss Anne de Bourgh, was kidnapped. Mr. Darcy, still recovering from his disastrous proposal, had spent most of the night writing a letter of explanation. He was walking the grove hoping to meet Miss Elizabeth when he saw a confrontation of her struggling against an unknown man. Darcy rushed to intervene, however, there were too many. Several carried guns while another wielded a knife to Miss Elizabeth’s throat. It was evident they only wanted her but Darcy convinced them to take him as well.
“Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.” Billy Graham
The rest of the story is about Elizabeth and Darcy working together to escape their captors. This was wave after wave of angst-filled action with deaths, mayhem, and many secrets revealed. The depth of the smugglers’ ring of terror along the coast of Kent was terrifying. Evil had free rein and ruled with a tight fist with deadly retribution for any who dared to cross or betray them. The cruelty of the villains was beyond imagining. I was stunned half of the time and could not put it down and read it straight through. I was not happy with some of the actions of ODC. I do not like to see that in JAFF but I went with it. I won’t go into detail but I thought it unnecessary. In many cases, the angst felt forced, and the misunderstandings between ODC were often silly and too much [especially after what happened between them]; however, it was a good story.
“Courage, above all things, is the first quality of a warrior.” Carl von Clausewitz
March 27, 2024
Elizabeth and Darcy get abducted from Rosings mistakenly (they think she's Anne de Bourgh). The forced proximity and the shared danger brings them to a better understanding.
I enjoyed this angsty, well written story. There is some sexual content but it's not the point.
My two quibbles: she keeps on keeping on thinking about Wickham far too much, and for some reason he puts of telling her about him. He does his best to protect her and she's like, yeah but he was rude to Wickham so it doesn't count. And towards the end there is a very foolhardy plan that seemed a little too-stupid-to-live thing to do, and could foreseeably have ended in tragedy as much as it could have worked. As it happens they both live but get slapped with a bit of PTSD.
I enjoyed this angsty, well written story. There is some sexual content but it's not the point.
My two quibbles: she keeps on keeping on thinking about Wickham far too much, and for some reason he puts of telling her about him. He does his best to protect her and she's like, yeah but he was rude to Wickham so it doesn't count. And towards the end there is a very foolhardy plan that seemed a little too-stupid-to-live thing to do, and could foreseeably have ended in tragedy as much as it could have worked. As it happens they both live but get slapped with a bit of PTSD.
March 5, 2024
O
M
G
Who else has a book hangover from this one? Incredible! This one had me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
LOVED IT!
M
G
Who else has a book hangover from this one? Incredible! This one had me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
LOVED IT!
March 7, 2024
This was delightful! So glad I picked this at random on KU. 5 ⭐!
March 21, 2024
Ugh!
Two stars for good writing. After the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, when Darcy is about to meet Elizabeth to give her his letter, he witnesses her abduction, tries to prevent it, but gets kidnapped as well. A smuggler is angry at Lady Catherine, who is in business with them and double crossed them. They think they're abducting Anne Debourgh as a means to get revenge. Elizabeth still dislikes Darcy, but their forced captivity and need to work together to survive opens her eyes to the good man he really is.
This premise is very familiar from other JAFF variations. I wanted to like this version because of the competent writing. However, the characters and situations quickly descend into silliness. I disliked both Darcy and Elizabeth. They both acted like idiots and made many terrible choices. Their decisions led to circumstances that were so ludicrous and annoying that before long I was skimming large parts of the story just so that I could slog through it faster.
I don't think there was a warning, but there was a lot of pretty bad violence against a woman, and some very crude and graphic behavior on the part of the bad guys. While it heightens the drama, I felt some of it was unnecessary. The book is written well enough, and well edited. However, I don't recommend it.
Two stars for good writing. After the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, when Darcy is about to meet Elizabeth to give her his letter, he witnesses her abduction, tries to prevent it, but gets kidnapped as well. A smuggler is angry at Lady Catherine, who is in business with them and double crossed them. They think they're abducting Anne Debourgh as a means to get revenge. Elizabeth still dislikes Darcy, but their forced captivity and need to work together to survive opens her eyes to the good man he really is.
This premise is very familiar from other JAFF variations. I wanted to like this version because of the competent writing. However, the characters and situations quickly descend into silliness. I disliked both Darcy and Elizabeth. They both acted like idiots and made many terrible choices. Their decisions led to circumstances that were so ludicrous and annoying that before long I was skimming large parts of the story just so that I could slog through it faster.
I don't think there was a warning, but there was a lot of pretty bad violence against a woman, and some very crude and graphic behavior on the part of the bad guys. While it heightens the drama, I felt some of it was unnecessary. The book is written well enough, and well edited. However, I don't recommend it.
February 14, 2025
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Fitzwilliam Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth Bennet is egregiously offensive. After her vituperative rejection, he retreats and she goes for a walk, to clear her head.
Darcy realises that he expressed himself very poorly and follows her to explain.
As he approaches, Elizabeth is manhandled into a coach by three rough looking men. His gallant rescue attempt finds him also abducted.
Very quickly they realise that the kidnappers wanted Anne De Bourgh.
When they realise their error, Elizabeth will be in even more danger.
Darcy and Elizabeth quickly start to work together and misconceptions fall away.
Will they escape? Who is behind the kidnapping? Will Darcy and Elizabeth ever be free of this web of violence and malice?
This is a truly awesome book! It is compelling, gritty and keeps you on tenterhooks until the end.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Fitzwilliam Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth Bennet is egregiously offensive. After her vituperative rejection, he retreats and she goes for a walk, to clear her head.
Darcy realises that he expressed himself very poorly and follows her to explain.
As he approaches, Elizabeth is manhandled into a coach by three rough looking men. His gallant rescue attempt finds him also abducted.
Very quickly they realise that the kidnappers wanted Anne De Bourgh.
When they realise their error, Elizabeth will be in even more danger.
Darcy and Elizabeth quickly start to work together and misconceptions fall away.
Will they escape? Who is behind the kidnapping? Will Darcy and Elizabeth ever be free of this web of violence and malice?
This is a truly awesome book! It is compelling, gritty and keeps you on tenterhooks until the end.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
March 31, 2024
This ain’t your Grandma’s kidnapping book.
This was scary. These smugglers were truly evil, there wasn’t any sugar coating going on in this story. My heart was racing several times and I used several hankies over a few scenes. I just can’t do a true book report here and not spoil part of the plot which should be enjoyed without spoilers. The romance was incredible though.
Moll seems to keep besting herself with every new book. She’s a treasure to JAFF readers. Highly recommended.
This was scary. These smugglers were truly evil, there wasn’t any sugar coating going on in this story. My heart was racing several times and I used several hankies over a few scenes. I just can’t do a true book report here and not spoil part of the plot which should be enjoyed without spoilers. The romance was incredible though.
Moll seems to keep besting herself with every new book. She’s a treasure to JAFF readers. Highly recommended.
March 16, 2025
My Rating: 2.5*
For book covers, this one is a favourite.
I haven’t read all of Ms. Moll’s books, however the ones I have read, I enjoyed. Unfortunately, this will not be one of them.
I love an ‘outside-the-box’ variation, and I was all anticipation of reading this one. I liked the fact it is post-proposal even though they are in Hunsford. It is unfortunate though that I couldn’t suspend my belief on certain aspects that I needed to to take me through the rest of the book. Believe me, I tried. I read the whole book with only a bit of skimming. I was seriously vexed and frustrated with too much repetition and some outrageous actions…and it wasn’t the sex scenes that bothered me…they were truly not necessary, nor could I suspend belief on the first one at least, but whatever. The vulgarity of the villains was also too crude. I am not fainting ‘miss’ as I do read other genres (historical murder mysteries, historical fiction, etc.).
To me, it seems as if Ms. Moll’s style of writing has changed a bit, or maybe I haven’t read enough of her recent books to be a true judge.
Needless to say, please read other reviews as many have loved this book.
April 19, 2024
You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love this thrilling variation of Pride and Prejudice!
This is my first book by author Heather Moll, an acclaimed writer of Jane Austen Fan Fiction, but it certainly won't be my last. Picture Elizabeth and Darcy kidnapped shortly after he proposes to her and she refuses. The criminals think they're making off with Lady Catherine de Bourgh's daughter, and hence the nonstop action begins. Huzzah!
I adore the author's creative twists and turns, and the engaging way she develops the relationship between E & D under such dire circumstances.
Moll has written a splendid must-read for Janeites, who will swoon just as much as when Darcy emerged from that Pemberley pond, drenched, in his puffy white shirt. I certainly did!
This is my first book by author Heather Moll, an acclaimed writer of Jane Austen Fan Fiction, but it certainly won't be my last. Picture Elizabeth and Darcy kidnapped shortly after he proposes to her and she refuses. The criminals think they're making off with Lady Catherine de Bourgh's daughter, and hence the nonstop action begins. Huzzah!
I adore the author's creative twists and turns, and the engaging way she develops the relationship between E & D under such dire circumstances.
Moll has written a splendid must-read for Janeites, who will swoon just as much as when Darcy emerged from that Pemberley pond, drenched, in his puffy white shirt. I certainly did!
March 2, 2024
What a ride!
This was a great 342 pages of adventure from start to finish. The story is starts in Hunsford and proceeds as in canon through the morning after the proposal, ODC are kidnapped and through that forced proximity learn more about each other. The villains are villainous and scary. The why of the kidnapping is a surprise. ODC’s facetime is fabulous. I loved their dialogue and their slow coming to an understanding. Once they do understand each other the slow burn starts. Heather Moll knows how to walk that line between sexy and graphic. I needed my smelling salts after they finally solved their differences.
I received an ARC and voluntarily leave my review
This was a great 342 pages of adventure from start to finish. The story is starts in Hunsford and proceeds as in canon through the morning after the proposal, ODC are kidnapped and through that forced proximity learn more about each other. The villains are villainous and scary. The why of the kidnapping is a surprise. ODC’s facetime is fabulous. I loved their dialogue and their slow coming to an understanding. Once they do understand each other the slow burn starts. Heather Moll knows how to walk that line between sexy and graphic. I needed my smelling salts after they finally solved their differences.
I received an ARC and voluntarily leave my review
probably-never
March 15, 2024The author doesn’t give permission for HER words to be used in AI writing programs but uses AI art work which used artists work. I find this a little hypocritical.
I don’t like Elizabeth at the 25% point so I’m out. She seems unhinged about the whole kidnapping and her insistence that they fight the kidnappers is frankly insane.
I don’t like Elizabeth at the 25% point so I’m out. She seems unhinged about the whole kidnapping and her insistence that they fight the kidnappers is frankly insane.
April 12, 2024
A fun read, but A Gentleman's Honor continues to be my favorite kidnapping plot. The relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth develops nicely, but as fun as the spicy bits are, in this book there was a huge element of "right now?! In this time and this place?! Can you not keep it together for just a few more hours until you're safe?! Really?" And beyond that, the plot seemed to forget about past events. Elizabeth gets slapped hard and thrown to the ground. It leaves a mark. But 24 hours later she and Darcy stroll into a village inn and no one notices the mark on her face? Elizabeth and Darcy aren't worried about how dirty they are from their imprisonment and roughing up? Doesn't Darcy have bruises at this point?
It was fun. I enjoyed it, but I wanted a bit more consistency from the plot and discretion from the leads.
It was fun. I enjoyed it, but I wanted a bit more consistency from the plot and discretion from the leads.
April 29, 2024
Being stupid
I feel like the title should be ‘Being stupid’ more than ‘Rising courage’. E&D make lots of reckless decisions. They thing themselves clever but they look nothing but, especially the second plan, when they supposedly new the type of criminals they were leading with and they walked in the lions mouth by their own will. It was an effort to read the last part of the book, as I could not empathize with their short planning and bad execution, everything could have go wrong, it was only luck that save them. Especially when there was a much simpler way.
I feel like the title should be ‘Being stupid’ more than ‘Rising courage’. E&D make lots of reckless decisions. They thing themselves clever but they look nothing but, especially the second plan, when they supposedly new the type of criminals they were leading with and they walked in the lions mouth by their own will. It was an effort to read the last part of the book, as I could not empathize with their short planning and bad execution, everything could have go wrong, it was only luck that save them. Especially when there was a much simpler way.
March 12, 2025
there were way too many unbelievable situations and fairly historical inaccuracies (one of my highlights was Darcy saying the word “literally” in a sentence…wut) … Lizzy was not herself, she said and did things no Austen character would do or say. Darcy was better, but no true Darcy would do what this one did … I’ve read better adaptations and variations … this one had a good premise at first, but their actions were those of modern characters. Disappointing.
June 6, 2024
I have to agree with some of the other reviews here: the first part of this wildly ridiculous premise was so, so much fun, but then it derailed in some weird ways. To go from the disastrous first proposal to Elizabeth loving Mr. Darcy all of two days later — not to mention, that scene at the inn before they’re even engaged — felt so choppy and far too rushed. I get that P&P variations often play fast and loose with the time period’s proprieties, but Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy seemed way, way too chill about throwing all their previously held morals out the window. And the more I think about it, the more I’m not convinced that allowing Elizabeth to get kidnapped a second time was the only way to stop Markle.
Like I said, where this book was fun, it was a lot of fun. In many ways, I got what I came for — devoted Mr. Darcy, fiercely loyal Elizabeth, their happily ever after — in abundance. But that didn’t quite make up for where the author made some strange storytelling choices, and it doesn’t make me eager to seek out more of her work.
Like I said, where this book was fun, it was a lot of fun. In many ways, I got what I came for — devoted Mr. Darcy, fiercely loyal Elizabeth, their happily ever after — in abundance. But that didn’t quite make up for where the author made some strange storytelling choices, and it doesn’t make me eager to seek out more of her work.
March 13, 2024
Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy are abducted together from the grounds at Rosings the morning after the proposal. Close quarters lead to improved communication as they work through their feelings and work as a team. That sounds like the plot of every kidnapping story, but the villain and surrounding characters make this an amazing read. I could not put it down. The happily ever after in this book was well earned by our dear couple.
FYI there are anticipated vows
FYI there are anticipated vows
April 26, 2024
who are these characters who are pretending to be elizabeth and darcy? why didn't I stop sooner?
March 6, 2024
I eagerly anticipated Moll's newest book, as I have enjoyed everything I've read by her so far. However, I wasn't prepared for this story. While reading, my fitness tracker watch notified me that I was experiencing high stress and recommended a breathing exercise. I think that says everything about my experience, but I will elaborate.
First, this book should come with trigger warnings. If anyone has experienced physical violence, they might be upset by these scenes.
As I read, I kept telling myself, "This isn't the kind of book where Elizabeth and Darcy will die. They will get an HEA." And it's true. The bad guys receive their punishment, and ODC get their HEA. However, it's not without trauma. I don't read JAFF to watch my favorite characters suffer (beyond the usual that's brought on through misunderstandings and miscommunications). I read JAFF to escape. This story was anything but that.
ETA:
Also, there are open-door scenes , so that might deter a reader who enjoys closed-door scenes or more chaste stories.
I rated this a 3.5/5 because, as much as I wanted to put it down, I had to know what happened to Darcy and Elizabeth. I rounded up because Moll is a talented writer. She's so talented, I will continue to read whatever she writes, but I will not be rereading this particular story.
First, this book should come with trigger warnings. If anyone has experienced physical violence, they might be upset by these scenes.
As I read, I kept telling myself, "This isn't the kind of book where Elizabeth and Darcy will die. They will get an HEA." And it's true. The bad guys receive their punishment, and ODC get their HEA. However, it's not without trauma. I don't read JAFF to watch my favorite characters suffer (beyond the usual that's brought on through misunderstandings and miscommunications). I read JAFF to escape. This story was anything but that.
ETA:
Also, there are open-door scenes , so that might deter a reader who enjoys closed-door scenes or more chaste stories.
I rated this a 3.5/5 because, as much as I wanted to put it down, I had to know what happened to Darcy and Elizabeth. I rounded up because Moll is a talented writer. She's so talented, I will continue to read whatever she writes, but I will not be rereading this particular story.
February 19, 2024
The morning after his disastrous proposal Darcy is about to deliver his letter to Elizabeth when he witnesses her abduction. He tries to intervene but is abducted, too. The kidnappers believe they have captured Anne de Bourgh. The kidnappers are merciless and brutal, thus Darcy and Elizabeth keep the appearance that Elizabeth is Anne. Forced in closed proximity Darcy and Elizabeth have nothing to occupy their time with than to talk. Elizabeth is pleasantly surprised by Darcy's kindness and how well they work together to distract the kidnappers. Will they now be able to sort things out and come to a better understanding of one another? Will they even survive this ordeal? And what about future happiness?
Wow, this book leaves me speechless. If I were able to give more than five stars, this book will get them! Maybe this is already my book of the year 2024! As always when I read a book from Heather Moll I am sure to be blessed with an entertaining and very well written story that will captivate me a great deal. This story is no exception. I was hardly able to put the book down. The story is very thrilling and has some angst in it, but I found it was not too much or unbearable. It was captivating and makes the story a unique one. I also like that the story is not predictable and has some unexpected twists that keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
Stories where Darcy and Elizabeth are forced to spend time in closed proximity are amongst my favourites. They can't avoid each other and therefore need to talk and solve their misunderstandings if they don't want to be literally alone. Normally this speeds up things between them and hopefully they discover that they like/love each other. This is also the case here. They talk a great deal to solve some misunderstandings/issues that came up in the rejection of his proposal and come to understand one another better. Due to the abduction and the closed proximity Elizabeth also gets the chance to observe Darcy's real character and the picture she now forms is totally different from the picture she formed earlier.
When Elizabeth finally admits that Darcy is a better person than she thought him to be you can feel the attraction between them growing. Darcy is in love with her the whole book but Elizabeth's attraction grows significantly in the course of the book. I think that is very well written by the author. I also like that great love that develops between them. And that they are, because of their love, immensely afraid for the other when there is danger from the brutal and scrupouls abductors.
Elizabeth is very brave in this story, the quote that her courage is rising with every attempt to intimidate her is really true here. I like her in the role of a brave heroine. But she could not have been so brave if she didn't have Darcy in the background and his love to support her and give her strength.
Darcy on his part is, due to circumstances, somewhat in a role where it is not possible for him to act and the only thing he can do is to observe. That's really hard for the Master of Pemberley who is accustomed to giving orders and having his way and who is, first of all, a man of action. This leaves him somewhat vulnerable, especially when it comes to his love for Elizabeth. I like this version of Darcy very much because you think you get to know the "real" Darcy in every possible way, even in difficult and bad times.
This book is definitely amongst my favourites for 2024! An excellent book!
If you like a thrilling story where Darcy and Elizabeth are in closed proximity and, while fighting together against their abductors, get to understand and know each other better, you should definitely read this brilliant, captivating and very well written book.
I highly recommend it. This book contains some violence and scenes for a mature audience.
I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wow, this book leaves me speechless. If I were able to give more than five stars, this book will get them! Maybe this is already my book of the year 2024! As always when I read a book from Heather Moll I am sure to be blessed with an entertaining and very well written story that will captivate me a great deal. This story is no exception. I was hardly able to put the book down. The story is very thrilling and has some angst in it, but I found it was not too much or unbearable. It was captivating and makes the story a unique one. I also like that the story is not predictable and has some unexpected twists that keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
Stories where Darcy and Elizabeth are forced to spend time in closed proximity are amongst my favourites. They can't avoid each other and therefore need to talk and solve their misunderstandings if they don't want to be literally alone. Normally this speeds up things between them and hopefully they discover that they like/love each other. This is also the case here. They talk a great deal to solve some misunderstandings/issues that came up in the rejection of his proposal and come to understand one another better. Due to the abduction and the closed proximity Elizabeth also gets the chance to observe Darcy's real character and the picture she now forms is totally different from the picture she formed earlier.
When Elizabeth finally admits that Darcy is a better person than she thought him to be you can feel the attraction between them growing. Darcy is in love with her the whole book but Elizabeth's attraction grows significantly in the course of the book. I think that is very well written by the author. I also like that great love that develops between them. And that they are, because of their love, immensely afraid for the other when there is danger from the brutal and scrupouls abductors.
Elizabeth is very brave in this story, the quote that her courage is rising with every attempt to intimidate her is really true here. I like her in the role of a brave heroine. But she could not have been so brave if she didn't have Darcy in the background and his love to support her and give her strength.
Darcy on his part is, due to circumstances, somewhat in a role where it is not possible for him to act and the only thing he can do is to observe. That's really hard for the Master of Pemberley who is accustomed to giving orders and having his way and who is, first of all, a man of action. This leaves him somewhat vulnerable, especially when it comes to his love for Elizabeth. I like this version of Darcy very much because you think you get to know the "real" Darcy in every possible way, even in difficult and bad times.
This book is definitely amongst my favourites for 2024! An excellent book!
If you like a thrilling story where Darcy and Elizabeth are in closed proximity and, while fighting together against their abductors, get to understand and know each other better, you should definitely read this brilliant, captivating and very well written book.
I highly recommend it. This book contains some violence and scenes for a mature audience.
I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 3, 2024
4/5 - Fun and Exciting
This is a fun romp of a story. Heather Moll writes beautifully, and she does the kidnapping trope justice here. I love how Lizzy and Darcy slowly come together through their ordeal. I also really like Kirby, a 12 year old boy original character.
For negatives, I don't love the ending climax. The characters make some pretty stupid decisions, and I don't really buy the author's reasons for them. The first half was better than the second, for me.
Despite that, I still really enjoyed the book.
This is a fun romp of a story. Heather Moll writes beautifully, and she does the kidnapping trope justice here. I love how Lizzy and Darcy slowly come together through their ordeal. I also really like Kirby, a 12 year old boy original character.
For negatives, I don't love the ending climax. The characters make some pretty stupid decisions, and I don't really buy the author's reasons for them. The first half was better than the second, for me.
Despite that, I still really enjoyed the book.
April 4, 2024
3,75⭐️
June 4, 2024
Love the Jane Austin vibe.
March 2, 2024
I have been expecting the new book by Heather Moll - and I am not disappointed!
The story starts just before the Hunsford moment and develops in an adventure with kidnapping, smugglers, revenge, nefarious schemes, romantic and chivalrous gestures, intimacy, moments of seclusion, sharing a room, planning an escape (or several), becoming allies, partners, roommates, friends, bedmates and falling in love and passion... There is not a dull moment in this wonderful Elizabeth and Darcy Adventure!
I confess I had, within few pages, the strong envy to shake ELizabeth or bang my head against the table, when our dear heroine thought nonchallantly that "she cannot allow herself to find Mr Darcy agreable, despite her inclination to do exactly so, because it would mean she cheated on Mr W's friendship!" Girl! Seriously?!
But she grew on me later on.... :-)
I also had an apprehension about the direction the story would take: after the abduction by a 'second in charge' and the expectations raised about the 'head' of the smugglers organisation, I thought for a few minutes that it would be similar to The Journey, and the leader of the scheme would be a kind of Morgan the highwayman. He is not, and Darcy has no rival ...:-)
I much enjoyed all the moments in *tête-à-tête*, their conversations both with words and with their thoughts, the parring, the intimacy, the partnership, the equal grounds...
I liked their planning and the no-nonsense and matter of fact decisions they took - no missish bashfullness about them being forced together which would have been quite useless, no incessant talk about what was proper or expected or about reputations...
I always like a bold Elizabeth, and this one, just barely discovering her own passion, is a delight!
Unexpected, just as the conclusion of their first ordeal -yes, I said first!, as there is a second! - perfectly appropriate as to release the tension of their trials.
After they returned to their families and to London, there are several moments of peace - and we get to meet some of the "marginal" characters in this story: Bingley, Jane, Mr Bennet. Lady Catherine & the Collinses we had met in the first chapter, as we did the colonel. The other characters are at the most only named. A second kidnapping - this time planned - revealed a clever Elizabeth and reasonable Darcy, still ready to do everything for Elizabeth, but opposite to his romantic but silent and incognito-would-be move in Lambton (determined to save Lydia but not saying a word about his plan when he quits the inn and ELizabeth in tears), he allows Elizabeth's plan had merrit and they participate together.
I read it all in a night - and I remain with a smile on my lips and the determination I would read it again very soon - it is too good not to do so; like a theatre play with only two protagonists and in which the delight resides in their continous sharing of the scene, the light, the feelings. Sharing everything.
As always with Ms Moll's books: perfectly edited !
Highly recommended.
The story starts just before the Hunsford moment and develops in an adventure with kidnapping, smugglers, revenge, nefarious schemes, romantic and chivalrous gestures, intimacy, moments of seclusion, sharing a room, planning an escape (or several), becoming allies, partners, roommates, friends, bedmates and falling in love and passion... There is not a dull moment in this wonderful Elizabeth and Darcy Adventure!
I confess I had, within few pages, the strong envy to shake ELizabeth or bang my head against the table, when our dear heroine thought nonchallantly that "she cannot allow herself to find Mr Darcy agreable, despite her inclination to do exactly so, because it would mean she cheated on Mr W's friendship!" Girl! Seriously?!
But she grew on me later on.... :-)
I also had an apprehension about the direction the story would take: after the abduction by a 'second in charge' and the expectations raised about the 'head' of the smugglers organisation, I thought for a few minutes that it would be similar to The Journey, and the leader of the scheme would be a kind of Morgan the highwayman. He is not, and Darcy has no rival ...:-)
I much enjoyed all the moments in *tête-à-tête*, their conversations both with words and with their thoughts, the parring, the intimacy, the partnership, the equal grounds...
I liked their planning and the no-nonsense and matter of fact decisions they took - no missish bashfullness about them being forced together which would have been quite useless, no incessant talk about what was proper or expected or about reputations...
I always like a bold Elizabeth, and this one, just barely discovering her own passion, is a delight!
Unexpected, just as the conclusion of their first ordeal -yes, I said first!, as there is a second! - perfectly appropriate as to release the tension of their trials.
After they returned to their families and to London, there are several moments of peace - and we get to meet some of the "marginal" characters in this story: Bingley, Jane, Mr Bennet. Lady Catherine & the Collinses we had met in the first chapter, as we did the colonel. The other characters are at the most only named. A second kidnapping - this time planned - revealed a clever Elizabeth and reasonable Darcy, still ready to do everything for Elizabeth, but opposite to his romantic but silent and incognito-would-be move in Lambton (determined to save Lydia but not saying a word about his plan when he quits the inn and ELizabeth in tears), he allows Elizabeth's plan had merrit and they participate together.
I read it all in a night - and I remain with a smile on my lips and the determination I would read it again very soon - it is too good not to do so; like a theatre play with only two protagonists and in which the delight resides in their continous sharing of the scene, the light, the feelings. Sharing everything.
As always with Ms Moll's books: perfectly edited !
Highly recommended.
April 29, 2024
I wanted to give it more, but adding slut into an Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy spinoff is not what I would expect Jane Austen to write, and it disappointed me. The storyline was intriguing, and I loved reading it. I felt that Elizabeth and Darcy's characters were a little simple-minded and not at all in alignment with the actual characters. I would have liked it better if it was clean with no sex.
March 31, 2024
I was surprised to realise I must have read an earlier version of this work and saddened to realise the changes mostly were OOC smut, OOC lack of consequences and an increase in violence.
This starts well, a compelling kidnapping and an interesting twist but it becomes less and less credible from about 40% and it’s a shame because generally I enjoy Molls work and was excited for this one.
This starts well, a compelling kidnapping and an interesting twist but it becomes less and less credible from about 40% and it’s a shame because generally I enjoy Molls work and was excited for this one.
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