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Deception
Pride and Prejudice variation. After the ball at Netherfield Fitzwilliam Darcy left Hertfordshire scared of his rapidly developing feelings for Elizabeth Bennet. What if another man had appeared in her life, both wealthy and attractive, certain of his affection for her and wishing to marry her? What if in Kent Darcy had met Elizabeth who was practically engaged to another man? How would he have dealt with an unexpected rival and would he face the challenge?
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
October 2, 2017
I am rather conflicted about this book. Let me start with the title, Deception, I don't know who was deceived except perhaps the reader when the story ends at 45% on their kindle and a 'BONUS' story of No Other Way https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... which I read way back in 2013 and don't feel inclined to reread. And a warning there are some adult scenes.
This is a very odd P&P what if, Purvis Lodge is sold at last. Sorry I had to say that. It begins with Lizzy climbing a tree and be observed by her new neighbor Mr. Brooke. Mr. Brooke is recently self elevated from trade and has £15,000 per year. He is a childless widower of about 6 and 30. He sees Lizzy without her spencer and stockings which Jane later finds scandalous. Jane even hints that somehow Lizzy is compromised by a man seeing her without her spencer. To quote John McEnroe: "You cannot be serious". So this Lizzy; who is a weak imitation of the real Lizzy Bennet, spends days terrified that Mr. Brooke will tell the whole world he saw her feet. Luckily at the Assembly in Meryton he is merely polite and distant, as he cannot dance. But you say, "Any Savage can dance" hmmm. Of course Darcy is Darcy and Lizzy overhears his slightly rephrased insult as does Mr. Brooke. Things happen quickly and Lizzy, for no conceivable reason finds herself in love with Mr. Darcy or at least seriously crushing on Mr. Darcy.
She meets Wickham. Mr. Bennet warns Mr. Brooke off of Lizzy, Mr. Collins arrives, the Netherfield ball happens. Now we get to my BIG NAG Scene. During her dance with Mr. Collins the clumsy oaf treads upon her dainty foot, causing injury. She is afraid to make a fuss. [What?? The Lizzy Bennet we all know and love would have fussed this up to make Mr. Collins look like the awful clod that he is, but she wants to keep it a secret] Mr. Darcy comes to her aid and no sooner is he gone than Mr. Brooke is whispering lies and scandals about Mr. Darcy in her ear.
Lizzy goes home and never dances with Darcy, the next morning he calls and gets pissed off about something - but I have no idea what and we will never know so it must not be important. Lizzy refuses Mr. Collins, and Mr. Brooke steps into the void and says he will court her. Lizzy refuses him, more stuff happens, Mrs. Gardiner comes to visit. We learn that Mrs. Gardiner is a natural daughter of some 'reckless aristocrat' who grew up in Lambton (gee I wonder who? ), she knows much of the Darcys (curiouser and curiouser) and Wickham and quickly disabuses Lizzy of all of her beliefs about Darcy being bad or lascivious and she further adds she knows nothing good of Mr. Brooke. But when both elder Bennet sisters are invited to London Lizzy is told she must remain in Meryton. And eventually she is kind of engaged to Mr. Brooke, even though she doesn't love him, like him or care about him at all. Luckily Papa Bennet insists she wait until she returns from Kent to make the engagement public.
While at Rosings she meets Georgiana; who is the spit and image of Aunt Gardiner. Then encounters Mr. Darcy, stuff happens, she and Mr. Darcy end up engaged even though she is sort of engaged to Mr. Brooke, Mr. Brooke shows up, Lizzy is abducted by Brooke and rescued by Darcy & Col. Fitzwilliam. During the abduction Brooke turns into a Bond villian because he tells her his entire plan; if he was clever he would have made up a lie about an express from meryton and she needed to go home, luckily for us he isn't. there is a confrontation where he makes lots of threats and gets punched repeatedly. Darcy decides he & Lizzy must marry immediately and the next day they flee to London where she goes to the Gardiners, where it is revealed the Mrs. Gardiner is one of his numerous illegitimate cousins via his father's brother. another cousin is [wait for it, wait for it] Wickham.
Lizzy and Darcy get married, have a lot of sex that we get to read about, go to Longbourn for Jane's wedding and Epilogue. [I am celebrated for my dislike of epilogues in general. Either write another book or just end it]. During the epilogue, set in a fairly distant time, Lizzy runs into Mr. Brooke at an inn with his family and flees to Fitzwilliam in fear. Seriously? Our Lizzy? Mrs. Darcy? Renown for her wit is terrified of someone GTFO.
oh yeah there are a couple of typos which i neglected to annotate because I really didn't care at all. I kind of think the 3 stars is overly generous but I must be in a good mood or something.
This is a very odd P&P what if, Purvis Lodge is sold at last. Sorry I had to say that. It begins with Lizzy climbing a tree and be observed by her new neighbor Mr. Brooke. Mr. Brooke is recently self elevated from trade and has £15,000 per year. He is a childless widower of about 6 and 30. He sees Lizzy without her spencer and stockings which Jane later finds scandalous. Jane even hints that somehow Lizzy is compromised by a man seeing her without her spencer. To quote John McEnroe: "You cannot be serious". So this Lizzy; who is a weak imitation of the real Lizzy Bennet, spends days terrified that Mr. Brooke will tell the whole world he saw her feet. Luckily at the Assembly in Meryton he is merely polite and distant, as he cannot dance. But you say, "Any Savage can dance" hmmm. Of course Darcy is Darcy and Lizzy overhears his slightly rephrased insult as does Mr. Brooke. Things happen quickly and Lizzy, for no conceivable reason finds herself in love with Mr. Darcy or at least seriously crushing on Mr. Darcy.
She meets Wickham. Mr. Bennet warns Mr. Brooke off of Lizzy, Mr. Collins arrives, the Netherfield ball happens. Now we get to my BIG NAG Scene. During her dance with Mr. Collins the clumsy oaf treads upon her dainty foot, causing injury. She is afraid to make a fuss. [What?? The Lizzy Bennet we all know and love would have fussed this up to make Mr. Collins look like the awful clod that he is, but she wants to keep it a secret] Mr. Darcy comes to her aid and no sooner is he gone than Mr. Brooke is whispering lies and scandals about Mr. Darcy in her ear.
Lizzy goes home and never dances with Darcy, the next morning he calls and gets pissed off about something - but I have no idea what and we will never know so it must not be important. Lizzy refuses Mr. Collins, and Mr. Brooke steps into the void and says he will court her. Lizzy refuses him, more stuff happens, Mrs. Gardiner comes to visit. We learn that Mrs. Gardiner is a natural daughter of some 'reckless aristocrat' who grew up in Lambton (gee I wonder who? ), she knows much of the Darcys (curiouser and curiouser) and Wickham and quickly disabuses Lizzy of all of her beliefs about Darcy being bad or lascivious and she further adds she knows nothing good of Mr. Brooke. But when both elder Bennet sisters are invited to London Lizzy is told she must remain in Meryton. And eventually she is kind of engaged to Mr. Brooke, even though she doesn't love him, like him or care about him at all. Luckily Papa Bennet insists she wait until she returns from Kent to make the engagement public.
While at Rosings she meets Georgiana; who is the spit and image of Aunt Gardiner. Then encounters Mr. Darcy, stuff happens, she and Mr. Darcy end up engaged even though she is sort of engaged to Mr. Brooke, Mr. Brooke shows up, Lizzy is abducted by Brooke and rescued by Darcy & Col. Fitzwilliam. During the abduction Brooke turns into a Bond villian because he tells her his entire plan; if he was clever he would have made up a lie about an express from meryton and she needed to go home, luckily for us he isn't. there is a confrontation where he makes lots of threats and gets punched repeatedly. Darcy decides he & Lizzy must marry immediately and the next day they flee to London where she goes to the Gardiners, where it is revealed the Mrs. Gardiner is one of his numerous illegitimate cousins via his father's brother. another cousin is [wait for it, wait for it] Wickham.
Lizzy and Darcy get married, have a lot of sex that we get to read about, go to Longbourn for Jane's wedding and Epilogue. [I am celebrated for my dislike of epilogues in general. Either write another book or just end it]. During the epilogue, set in a fairly distant time, Lizzy runs into Mr. Brooke at an inn with his family and flees to Fitzwilliam in fear. Seriously? Our Lizzy? Mrs. Darcy? Renown for her wit is terrified of someone GTFO.
oh yeah there are a couple of typos which i neglected to annotate because I really didn't care at all. I kind of think the 3 stars is overly generous but I must be in a good mood or something.
March 9, 2017
Double Good Reading
Ola Wegner...What can be said? Her writing is fabulous. He story development is skilled and worthy of a slow read. This book offers two different stories...Both of which can be supported by themselves. Her inventive lines are decidedly first rate. Only minor quibbles. In the first half...Was the fire set intentionally? In the second...And this is minor...Does young Ben get sent to school? Does he win Julia's hand? Both are minor notes in a major concerto.
Ola Wegner...What can be said? Her writing is fabulous. He story development is skilled and worthy of a slow read. This book offers two different stories...Both of which can be supported by themselves. Her inventive lines are decidedly first rate. Only minor quibbles. In the first half...Was the fire set intentionally? In the second...And this is minor...Does young Ben get sent to school? Does he win Julia's hand? Both are minor notes in a major concerto.
March 11, 2017
4.5 stars
The first 297 pages are one book, Deception, which ended at 46% and then we have another book, No Other Way, for the other 54%.
In the first book, Elizabeth receives 3 proposals. Collins: she has turned down. Mr. John Brooke, an older childless widower who owns Purvis Lodge, pursues Elizabeth and she at first turns him down. Then when he applies to Mr. Bennet after his second proposal to Elizabeth Mr. B. demands that the engagement not yet be published or recognized as he wants to allow a time for Elizabeth to consider this further. While in limbo about the engagement she is off to visit Charlotte Collins in Kent and, of course, meets Darcy there again. Oh, did I forget to mention: in this tale Elizabeth is aware of something called sexual chemistry between herself and Mr. Darcy. And then John Brooke shows up in Kent also. John and Wickham have "whispered" a few nefarious things about Darcy in her ear. She, this time, has a little niggling thought that just maybe they are wrong. Darcy is in a rush to make her his own and things do become rather tense...Darcy applying to Uncle Gardiner, Mr. Bennet arriving & confronting Darcy and wanting to know if the marriage has been consummated!!! Angst - just a little bit.
In the second book, we are at Hunsford and just shortly after Darcy's proposal Elizabeth learns of her father's death. (Hedgerows loom in the near future.) Elizabeth is in a state of shock and when Charlotte allows him to go up to Elizabeth's bedroom to comfort her and she collapses in his arms. He considers that he has compromised her and thus announces that they are engaged. There is a lot of convincing to be done on his part to get her to accept his hand with his promise that he will take care of her mother and sisters and bring Bingley back to Netherfield AND wait for her mourning period to be over before any ceremony. We have jealousy working its magic for both parties. And then when Kitty and Lydia are sent off to school, we find one young lady not settling in well.
Both tales do have some bedroom scenes. Wickham is around and Lady Catherine with Anne make an appearance. I enjoyed both stories but the second book did not show a page count so I am only guessing when I say that the two must have added up to about 600 pages.
The first 297 pages are one book, Deception, which ended at 46% and then we have another book, No Other Way, for the other 54%.
In the first book, Elizabeth receives 3 proposals. Collins: she has turned down. Mr. John Brooke, an older childless widower who owns Purvis Lodge, pursues Elizabeth and she at first turns him down. Then when he applies to Mr. Bennet after his second proposal to Elizabeth Mr. B. demands that the engagement not yet be published or recognized as he wants to allow a time for Elizabeth to consider this further. While in limbo about the engagement she is off to visit Charlotte Collins in Kent and, of course, meets Darcy there again. Oh, did I forget to mention: in this tale Elizabeth is aware of something called sexual chemistry between herself and Mr. Darcy. And then John Brooke shows up in Kent also. John and Wickham have "whispered" a few nefarious things about Darcy in her ear. She, this time, has a little niggling thought that just maybe they are wrong. Darcy is in a rush to make her his own and things do become rather tense...Darcy applying to Uncle Gardiner, Mr. Bennet arriving & confronting Darcy and wanting to know if the marriage has been consummated!!! Angst - just a little bit.
In the second book, we are at Hunsford and just shortly after Darcy's proposal Elizabeth learns of her father's death. (Hedgerows loom in the near future.) Elizabeth is in a state of shock and when Charlotte allows him to go up to Elizabeth's bedroom to comfort her and she collapses in his arms. He considers that he has compromised her and thus announces that they are engaged. There is a lot of convincing to be done on his part to get her to accept his hand with his promise that he will take care of her mother and sisters and bring Bingley back to Netherfield AND wait for her mourning period to be over before any ceremony. We have jealousy working its magic for both parties. And then when Kitty and Lydia are sent off to school, we find one young lady not settling in well.
Both tales do have some bedroom scenes. Wickham is around and Lady Catherine with Anne make an appearance. I enjoyed both stories but the second book did not show a page count so I am only guessing when I say that the two must have added up to about 600 pages.
August 28, 2017
3 stars to the fist story: Deception, and 4 stars to the bonus story: No Other Way.
December 15, 2021
I enjoyed the first story.
Synopsis:
#1 Deception:
There is another rich gentleman in want of a wife settled near Longbourn! Mr John Brooke, a self made man, now remodeling Pulvis Lodge, originates from the streets, but has pulled himself up by the bootstraps, and earned a fortune in trade, and thus in want of a wife, has alighted on Lizzy.
Using his poor education as a means to endear himself to Lizzy by asking her assistance in recommending books to expand his mind,
Mr Brooke acts the consummate gentleman, all politeness, in juxtaposition to Mr Darcy and his insults. But this goes further than a simple love triangle, it goes from love story to International war conspiracy and horses, which will have you asking:
An unconventional JAFF, but entertaining.
#2 No Other Way:
What if Darcy was as pigheaded as could be, and took no offense at Lizzy’s insistent refusals?
Instead he strikes in one fell swoop when the news that Mr Bennet has passed arrives that very week, due to a sudden carriage accident, and Lizzy is now more vulnerable to his marriage proposal?
Ugh! Darcy has no honor in this, this is some caricature of a rake. He is too forward, too gross, and really forces Lizzy, truly drags her, kicking and screaming to the alter.
Darcy to Lizzy:
IMO this whole plot was super sad, like Darcy just wore her down. This isn't falling in love, this is a hostile love takeover, this is a victim (Lizzy) coming to terms with their fate, and for me, it is nothing romantic nor featuring a substantial theme or message like P&P. It smacks of desperation and obsession.
Not how I would want my marriage to begin- Like RIP this Bizzaro Darcy, but I'm different.
I love a JAFF in which Darcy doesn't give up and wait months, and instead keeps trying, but not if he is going to have be delusional for the plot to work. Truly I love an unwavering present Darcy,
Here, he smacks of slimy opportunist, fueled by lust, and treats Lizzy like his plaything. I hated it.
I also enjoy a little jealousy when called for, but by my hat! Darcy is so paranoid and controlling he confronts Lizzy if she even mentions his kind cousin, or asks after his health.
Tis redonk, I wanted to slip her the relationship abuse hotline, or then would be letter hotline? Oh right. No women's rights. Darcy and his fragile male ego & abusive relationship sh!t had me screaming @ my kindle: Run, Lizzy, run!
One cool tidbit is that there is a small Mansfield park cameo/ reference with Henry Crawford being Lizzy's first kiss.
➳A small note, both stories featured inordinate mentions of Lizzy's feet; so a Darcy w/ a foot fetish? Did Dan Schneider ghost write this?
The Brass Tacks:
The 1st story: I would give 3.5 stars chiefly for entertaining me & the pacing- thank you a gazillion for not making me read superfluous scenes! This story is best the first half, then the second half devolves a bit into silliness. JAFF is intrinsically a guilty pleasure, but further than that, I feel there are two types of JAFFs one enjoys: The ones that are of a mind blowing quality, and the ones you kinda like despite yourself & couldn't put down. This is def the later. A Guilty pleasure within a guilty pleasure: a Guilty pleasure squared, if you will- a Guilt-ception.
2nd story: 1 star.
This JAFF dared ask the question, 'What would it be like if marriage to Darcy was a nightmare?' And boy does it answer it. Sometimes knowing is a curse. DNF'd this one.
So I will bring it to a sum total of 3 stars.
꙳ Spice Scale rating: Heady Habanero 🌶 🌶🌶🌶/5 ꙳
Synopsis:
#1 Deception:
There is another rich gentleman in want of a wife settled near Longbourn! Mr John Brooke, a self made man, now remodeling Pulvis Lodge, originates from the streets, but has pulled himself up by the bootstraps, and earned a fortune in trade, and thus in want of a wife, has alighted on Lizzy.
Using his poor education as a means to endear himself to Lizzy by asking her assistance in recommending books to expand his mind,
Mr Brooke acts the consummate gentleman, all politeness, in juxtaposition to Mr Darcy and his insults. But this goes further than a simple love triangle, it goes from love story to International war conspiracy and horses, which will have you asking:
An unconventional JAFF, but entertaining.
#2 No Other Way:
What if Darcy was as pigheaded as could be, and took no offense at Lizzy’s insistent refusals?
Instead he strikes in one fell swoop when the news that Mr Bennet has passed arrives that very week, due to a sudden carriage accident, and Lizzy is now more vulnerable to his marriage proposal?
Ugh! Darcy has no honor in this, this is some caricature of a rake. He is too forward, too gross, and really forces Lizzy, truly drags her, kicking and screaming to the alter.
Darcy to Lizzy:
IMO this whole plot was super sad, like Darcy just wore her down. This isn't falling in love, this is a hostile love takeover, this is a victim (Lizzy) coming to terms with their fate, and for me, it is nothing romantic nor featuring a substantial theme or message like P&P. It smacks of desperation and obsession.
Not how I would want my marriage to begin- Like RIP this Bizzaro Darcy, but I'm different.
I love a JAFF in which Darcy doesn't give up and wait months, and instead keeps trying, but not if he is going to have be delusional for the plot to work. Truly I love an unwavering present Darcy,
Here, he smacks of slimy opportunist, fueled by lust, and treats Lizzy like his plaything. I hated it.
I also enjoy a little jealousy when called for, but by my hat! Darcy is so paranoid and controlling he confronts Lizzy if she even mentions his kind cousin, or asks after his health.
Tis redonk, I wanted to slip her the relationship abuse hotline, or then would be letter hotline? Oh right. No women's rights. Darcy and his fragile male ego & abusive relationship sh!t had me screaming @ my kindle: Run, Lizzy, run!
One cool tidbit is that there is a small Mansfield park cameo/ reference with Henry Crawford being Lizzy's first kiss.
➳A small note, both stories featured inordinate mentions of Lizzy's feet; so a Darcy w/ a foot fetish? Did Dan Schneider ghost write this?
The Brass Tacks:
The 1st story: I would give 3.5 stars chiefly for entertaining me & the pacing- thank you a gazillion for not making me read superfluous scenes! This story is best the first half, then the second half devolves a bit into silliness. JAFF is intrinsically a guilty pleasure, but further than that, I feel there are two types of JAFFs one enjoys: The ones that are of a mind blowing quality, and the ones you kinda like despite yourself & couldn't put down. This is def the later. A Guilty pleasure within a guilty pleasure: a Guilty pleasure squared, if you will- a Guilt-ception.
2nd story: 1 star.
This JAFF dared ask the question, 'What would it be like if marriage to Darcy was a nightmare?' And boy does it answer it. Sometimes knowing is a curse. DNF'd this one.
So I will bring it to a sum total of 3 stars.
꙳ Spice Scale rating: Heady Habanero 🌶 🌶🌶🌶/5 ꙳
March 12, 2018
Two for the price of one as this book contains two novels.
Deception ends at about 45% and 278 pages while No Other Way holds the rest.
Deception 3.5*
Loved Darcy in this story, not so fond of Elizabeth who felt a bit weak.
Elizabeth receives several proposals. Mr Collins was easily rejected but the handsome and wealthy new neighbour, Mr Brook was not so easily rejected. Although he was much older than Lizzy, he at least was sensible.
Reunited with mr Darcy in Kent, Elizabeth was practically engaged to another.
All is not as it would seem though and there was a kidnapping with an attempt of sexual assault.
Thrilling read but a bit shallow, would have liked it to have been elaborated more in depth.
No Other Way 4.5*
Enters at the Hunsford proposal but with a twist. The next morning, Elizabeth receives an express with the dreadful news of her fathers passing.
Darcy was a persistent, alpha male who would not take no for an answer. Kind of a FMS ( forced marriage scenario), although Darcy is the one forcing Elizabeth...
He has a monumental job of turning Elizabeth's opinion of him for the better and their road to a HEA is fought with misunderstandings and jealousy.
I loved this plot who contained a lot of time with ODC and had its laugh out loud moments as well.
Mature content.
Recommend this story.
Deception ends at about 45% and 278 pages while No Other Way holds the rest.
Deception 3.5*
Loved Darcy in this story, not so fond of Elizabeth who felt a bit weak.
Elizabeth receives several proposals. Mr Collins was easily rejected but the handsome and wealthy new neighbour, Mr Brook was not so easily rejected. Although he was much older than Lizzy, he at least was sensible.
Reunited with mr Darcy in Kent, Elizabeth was practically engaged to another.
All is not as it would seem though and there was a kidnapping with an attempt of sexual assault.
Thrilling read but a bit shallow, would have liked it to have been elaborated more in depth.
No Other Way 4.5*
Enters at the Hunsford proposal but with a twist. The next morning, Elizabeth receives an express with the dreadful news of her fathers passing.
Darcy was a persistent, alpha male who would not take no for an answer. Kind of a FMS ( forced marriage scenario), although Darcy is the one forcing Elizabeth...
He has a monumental job of turning Elizabeth's opinion of him for the better and their road to a HEA is fought with misunderstandings and jealousy.
I loved this plot who contained a lot of time with ODC and had its laugh out loud moments as well.
Mature content.
Recommend this story.
September 1, 2023
This Darcy was nicer than some other Darcys by Wegner. But Elizabeth still has to endure a creepy male. I would have given it four stars had it been edited better. There were some places in which a/the author apparently couldn't decide which word or grammatical form to insert so they inserted both/all.
I think this was a freebie at some point.
Content: Violence as well as scenes of consensual activity.
I think this was a freebie at some point.
Content: Violence as well as scenes of consensual activity.
October 18, 2021
I won a paperback copy years ago and finally pulled it off the shelf. I read a few chapters and skimmed the rest. The premise was interesting, what if Darcy had real competition for Elizabeth? But the way the story unfolded and the overall writing style were not my cup of tea.
October 21, 2017
In this Pride and Prejudice Variation Elizabeth marries Darcy after the death of her father. Through time spent, a bit of voyeurism, and chemistry in the bedroom the two find their happily ever after.
May 18, 2018
I enjoyed this story but I almost feel that it is "unfinished". I feel there are parts that need to be fleshed out more, such as Aunt Madeline's paternity, and the whole conclusion was abrupt at the inn. The writing was good, but there was some "modernisms" and I wasn't a huge lover of the constant description of Elizabeth's "tiny" frame like a "10-year-old". I'm glad I read it, but don't know if I will again.
March 12, 2018
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, although Darcy insults Elizabeth at the Meryton Assembly she still feels drawn to him even though she states she dislikes him. Add the new owner of Purvis Lodge to the situation and problems occur.
A decent enough story which was quite enjoyable
A decent enough story which was quite enjoyable
August 13, 2020
Two for one
... and neither are exceptional, although both are entertaining to a degree. Similar to the author’s other books in terms of bluntness and a sort of rough sexuality (I don’t mind this, others may), as well as familiar grammatical problems.
... and neither are exceptional, although both are entertaining to a degree. Similar to the author’s other books in terms of bluntness and a sort of rough sexuality (I don’t mind this, others may), as well as familiar grammatical problems.
November 4, 2018
Hated it...
the overall story makes no sense at all, the characters are nothing like Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy and they are completely irrational and incoherent.
The whole tale is full of holes and leaves the reader with a lot of unanswered questions, but the worst thing about this book is that the story just stops abruptly with a finale that is anything but, followed by an anticlimactic epilogue that answers to nothing and leaves the reader unsatisfied and with even more questions.
In my opinion, nothing of this story can be saved.
Utterly pointless...
the overall story makes no sense at all, the characters are nothing like Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy and they are completely irrational and incoherent.
The whole tale is full of holes and leaves the reader with a lot of unanswered questions, but the worst thing about this book is that the story just stops abruptly with a finale that is anything but, followed by an anticlimactic epilogue that answers to nothing and leaves the reader unsatisfied and with even more questions.
In my opinion, nothing of this story can be saved.
Utterly pointless...
January 29, 2023
Good book
I enjoyed this story glad there was no elopment and not much of villains or miss bingley. Good love story
I enjoyed this story glad there was no elopment and not much of villains or miss bingley. Good love story
September 10, 2017
3.5⭐️Two stories in one.
The first one ended about 46% in. Elizabeth received three proposals. At time the story felt rushed had you wondering what else's happened.
The second story was based on the premise of Elizabeth's father passing away unexpectedly because of an carriage accident. Elizabeth excepts Darcy's proposal reluctantly. This story also jumps ahead unexpectedly at times. They seemed to be use of more modern language and there where many spelling and grammatical errors.
The first one ended about 46% in. Elizabeth received three proposals. At time the story felt rushed had you wondering what else's happened.
The second story was based on the premise of Elizabeth's father passing away unexpectedly because of an carriage accident. Elizabeth excepts Darcy's proposal reluctantly. This story also jumps ahead unexpectedly at times. They seemed to be use of more modern language and there where many spelling and grammatical errors.
April 7, 2017
Lovely story...
...and a wonderful surprise!
Highly recommended, I loved the way the characters are developed. Read this book, you won't regret it.
...and a wonderful surprise!
Highly recommended, I loved the way the characters are developed. Read this book, you won't regret it.
Read
December 31, 2020This book was SO bad. And SO short...and has you turning a page to the end with no resolution. Do NOT purchase this....do not look for her other books....that is how bad it is. I finished the book and I still have 54% of the book left to read....
The author takes it upon herself to introduce a new character to the book-- a man who doesn't make sense. She has certain things stated to shock the reader--- but then doesn't follow through. I couldn't help but think that Wegner knew nothing of the time period or of Austen's style....it was painful and insulting to read. I think there is a lot to be said about show, don't explain... Also, for a book-- whether self-published or published...it is not hard to have someone read through and edit for mistakes. So many grammatical mistakes, mispellings....what a mess.
DO NOT Read....please.
Popsugar 2020: A book featuring one of the seven deadly sins
The author takes it upon herself to introduce a new character to the book-- a man who doesn't make sense. She has certain things stated to shock the reader--- but then doesn't follow through. I couldn't help but think that Wegner knew nothing of the time period or of Austen's style....it was painful and insulting to read. I think there is a lot to be said about show, don't explain... Also, for a book-- whether self-published or published...it is not hard to have someone read through and edit for mistakes. So many grammatical mistakes, mispellings....what a mess.
DO NOT Read....please.
Popsugar 2020: A book featuring one of the seven deadly sins
September 8, 2017
I am catching up on my Ola Wegner books as of late. I've had this one long enough to still have it in paperback. This one, while classic Wegner writing, has a nasty rival. Though I will say Mr. Brooke's really didn't stand a chance with Elizabeth. While he portrays the perfect gentleman Lizzy knew there was something just not right with him. He is determined to have a lady for his bride to the extent of lying about Darcy. The first part of this book is literally Lizzy being thrown in the path of 4 different men. Mr. Brooke's, Wickham, Mr. Collins and Darcy. It was a difficult time in the book for me as I do not enjoy my couple a part. Darcy has his inner struggle with himself over the strong feelings building for Elizabeth. He flees in an attempt to get over them.
While he is out of the picture it is Mr. Brooke's who tries to steal her heart. He is even told by Mr. Bennet that Lizzy is not interested and he needs to set his sights on someone closer his age. Lizzy really is not attracted to him but she respects him. She agrees to marriage but asks that they keep it quiet. While all this has taken place Charlotte has still married Collins just like in the original. Bringing on the famous trip to Hunsford. A little bit of a twist occurs here allowing Lizzy to meet Georgianna. Seeing his beloved sister bond with this little country nobody Darcy finally gives up his hard fought battle with himself and surrenders his feelings. Now we are at the meat of the story. Lizzy is confused in which path to take but doesn't take to long to admit her feelings for Fitzwilliam.
There is only one problem and it is Mr. Brooke. He unexpectedly shows up catching a missing Lizzy who returns on the arm of Darcy. Acceptance isn't Brookes strong suit. He is not ready to surrender his claim on Lizzy which lives totally in his head and there is an edge danger and excitement when Elizabeth is abducted. The cold Darcy in this one is not present and once he confesses to Lizzy he is such a catch. I loved spending time with them and that is really my favorite part of any good P&P variation. It's light and fun between the two. After a little past the first part of the book my only complaint would be some grammar issues. It seems in many of her books you find the occasional missing, "the" or sentence worded out of order as though English isn't the first language.
It's slight and I only mention it because I have been in this Wegner marathon and have noticed the similarities in her different books. The other thing worth mentioning that bothered me was hearing Darcy call Brookes a scumbag. Totally took me out of the story as I'm pretty sure they were using that word in 1813 in upper classes or even the lower. The love scenes are normal for the author and I liked how Darcy was forced to prove his devotion by spending time with the Bennets. Mr. Bennet observing his unease and taking pity on him. I have read this one a couple times and the reason for the lower rating is because, obviously, for me Brooke as a rival was not enjoyed as much but also we find out his future and I think his remorse for what he did to Lizzy. We, however, never get see rather or not the Colonel or Georgianna gets married or has a family and I missed that. Still not a bad story especially if you like a little angst in you r story but, for me, not one of my favorites from the author. Enjoy!
While he is out of the picture it is Mr. Brooke's who tries to steal her heart. He is even told by Mr. Bennet that Lizzy is not interested and he needs to set his sights on someone closer his age. Lizzy really is not attracted to him but she respects him. She agrees to marriage but asks that they keep it quiet. While all this has taken place Charlotte has still married Collins just like in the original. Bringing on the famous trip to Hunsford. A little bit of a twist occurs here allowing Lizzy to meet Georgianna. Seeing his beloved sister bond with this little country nobody Darcy finally gives up his hard fought battle with himself and surrenders his feelings. Now we are at the meat of the story. Lizzy is confused in which path to take but doesn't take to long to admit her feelings for Fitzwilliam.
There is only one problem and it is Mr. Brooke. He unexpectedly shows up catching a missing Lizzy who returns on the arm of Darcy. Acceptance isn't Brookes strong suit. He is not ready to surrender his claim on Lizzy which lives totally in his head and there is an edge danger and excitement when Elizabeth is abducted. The cold Darcy in this one is not present and once he confesses to Lizzy he is such a catch. I loved spending time with them and that is really my favorite part of any good P&P variation. It's light and fun between the two. After a little past the first part of the book my only complaint would be some grammar issues. It seems in many of her books you find the occasional missing, "the" or sentence worded out of order as though English isn't the first language.
It's slight and I only mention it because I have been in this Wegner marathon and have noticed the similarities in her different books. The other thing worth mentioning that bothered me was hearing Darcy call Brookes a scumbag. Totally took me out of the story as I'm pretty sure they were using that word in 1813 in upper classes or even the lower. The love scenes are normal for the author and I liked how Darcy was forced to prove his devotion by spending time with the Bennets. Mr. Bennet observing his unease and taking pity on him. I have read this one a couple times and the reason for the lower rating is because, obviously, for me Brooke as a rival was not enjoyed as much but also we find out his future and I think his remorse for what he did to Lizzy. We, however, never get see rather or not the Colonel or Georgianna gets married or has a family and I missed that. Still not a bad story especially if you like a little angst in you r story but, for me, not one of my favorites from the author. Enjoy!
February 28, 2017
finish the editing please
obviously someone was trying to edit this book but never finished the task. many similar sounding words used incorrectly and, heaven help us, lots and lots of words ending in ly ... yes. edit.
obviously someone was trying to edit this book but never finished the task. many similar sounding words used incorrectly and, heaven help us, lots and lots of words ending in ly ... yes. edit.
October 17, 2014
I really enjoyed the book The Engagement by Ola Wegner so I was expecting to enjoy this book too. Sadly, I was disappointed. Many things jarred with me while reading it. (Yes I know I read the entire thing).
I almost gave up on it a couple of times because of a plethora of editing errors and some of the language used that was much too modern for a book set in this time.
Prime examples are: Mr Darcy called his sister Georgiana "Sweetie" several times. It would have been more fitting if the word Sweeting had been used. Sweeting is an archaic form of usually Sweetheart/Darling which would have sounded much better. Another word that had me rolling my eyes was scumbag, which is a word that Mr Darcy used to describe the villain in the book. It was not a term that came into general use until 1967 or thereabouts.
Other things that bothered me was that Elizabeth was totally out of character here and came across as childish and spoiled on several occasions, nothing at all like the bold heroine in the original source material. I wasn't 100% sure what to make of this incarnation of Mr Darcy either. The plot was a little too melodramatic for my liking, but I read it all nonetheless, so it wasn't all bad.
I almost gave up on it a couple of times because of a plethora of editing errors and some of the language used that was much too modern for a book set in this time.
Prime examples are: Mr Darcy called his sister Georgiana "Sweetie" several times. It would have been more fitting if the word Sweeting had been used. Sweeting is an archaic form of usually Sweetheart/Darling which would have sounded much better. Another word that had me rolling my eyes was scumbag, which is a word that Mr Darcy used to describe the villain in the book. It was not a term that came into general use until 1967 or thereabouts.
Other things that bothered me was that Elizabeth was totally out of character here and came across as childish and spoiled on several occasions, nothing at all like the bold heroine in the original source material. I wasn't 100% sure what to make of this incarnation of Mr Darcy either. The plot was a little too melodramatic for my liking, but I read it all nonetheless, so it wasn't all bad.
February 28, 2016
Showing 1-1 of 1 reviews(5 star). Show all reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
enjoyed more than expected
May 2, 2014Format: Paperback
Light reading with wisps of humour typical of Ola Wegner's stories.
Using Elizabeth's youthful innocence compared to just plain stubbornness was a nice change from other variations.
Showing Darcy through his actions and the use of Elizabeth's thoughts brought a reality to these characters that did not take away from Austen's original lovers. It merely expanded on how they got to where they were supposed to be. Using the character of John Brooke was a nice twist and having the epilogue finalize things was an enjoyable ending to a great story line.
Any one who is a staunch Austen worshiper might not appreciate the deeper development of both Darcy's and Elizabeth's character but as a Pride and Prejudice 'variation ' fan , the book was a gem !
It isn't necessary to have read Austen's original story . Ola Wegner's "Deception" stands on it's own as a good read .
Recommend this book without hesitation to any one who enjoys romance .
5.0 out of 5 stars
enjoyed more than expected
May 2, 2014Format: Paperback
Light reading with wisps of humour typical of Ola Wegner's stories.
Using Elizabeth's youthful innocence compared to just plain stubbornness was a nice change from other variations.
Showing Darcy through his actions and the use of Elizabeth's thoughts brought a reality to these characters that did not take away from Austen's original lovers. It merely expanded on how they got to where they were supposed to be. Using the character of John Brooke was a nice twist and having the epilogue finalize things was an enjoyable ending to a great story line.
Any one who is a staunch Austen worshiper might not appreciate the deeper development of both Darcy's and Elizabeth's character but as a Pride and Prejudice 'variation ' fan , the book was a gem !
It isn't necessary to have read Austen's original story . Ola Wegner's "Deception" stands on it's own as a good read .
Recommend this book without hesitation to any one who enjoys romance .
December 15, 2024
kept me interested but i rounded up two stars
This EB seems to be written as very young, immaturely insipid and rather flighty (ok—so in a nutshell—what actually kept me from five star review was fact should a JAFF reader sub Lydia for Lizzy in this book, who with a little applied guidance from her cannon wiser older sisters, bam 💥 you have a Lydia —which totally intrinsically creeped me out—and lead me to a generous four star rating mainly based on strength of plotting and originality) was definitely not independently minded; this EB (my least preferred characterization is the immature, silly EB across all my readings in JAFF); she’s still Mrs B’s least loved or favored daughter, who while climbing a tree, meets the much older wealthy man who purchased Purvis Lodge rumored to have 15000 pounds yearly; eventually thru local dinners, meetings in town, this wealthy Mr Brooke maneuvers Lizzy into a proverbial corner by bringing external pressure using an early public announcement to Mrs B in her own home of his ‘honorable’ interest in her least favorite daughter (this ungentlemanly act justified to EB after Collins denigrates EB for refusing his ‘worthy’ offer) leading to important inner dialogues from said ruthless suitor (he WANTS EB as his legally wedded wife—a genuine, gently reared gentlewoman & will not be gainsaid) and Lizzy; these reflections are shown to be rather covertly threatening (his) and heartbreakingly innocent (EB) and sadly tragic for us to recall bc women have NOTHING to socially trade with but their reputation during Regency period; Lizzy doesn’t have ‘those kinda feelings’ for Mr Brooke. She rather still pines for FD who’s forever left the County, even tho she knows he will never offer nor value her after the initial Assembly insult and ongoing covert abuse at Netherfield when Jane falls ill) but her loving Papa hopes to lessen rumors and sends her to visit Charlotte at Hunsford to give Lizzy time to accept situation but also trying to have distance lessen unwanted suitor from pressing his troth on Lizzy. Story develops at Hunsford and is believable. We see Wickham (huge surprise coming) and Lady Catherine act as usual; some genuine surprises esp in Aunt Gardiner, and FD while eventually accepting his ardent love for EB must be acted upon, is actually kinda a narcissistic jerk in much of this book. But he grows as a devoted suitor and potential mate eventually. Oh. And the epilogue does stink in this book i mean come on lol but there’s def a HEA!! Oh and Georgiana Darcy is a delight! Will prolly read again for more insight to characterizations, but not for a while. Am currently looking for more of this author’s works based on the strength of this plotting. Overall, a decent book for a cold weekend at home.
This EB seems to be written as very young, immaturely insipid and rather flighty (ok—so in a nutshell—what actually kept me from five star review was fact should a JAFF reader sub Lydia for Lizzy in this book, who with a little applied guidance from her cannon wiser older sisters, bam 💥 you have a Lydia —which totally intrinsically creeped me out—and lead me to a generous four star rating mainly based on strength of plotting and originality) was definitely not independently minded; this EB (my least preferred characterization is the immature, silly EB across all my readings in JAFF); she’s still Mrs B’s least loved or favored daughter, who while climbing a tree, meets the much older wealthy man who purchased Purvis Lodge rumored to have 15000 pounds yearly; eventually thru local dinners, meetings in town, this wealthy Mr Brooke maneuvers Lizzy into a proverbial corner by bringing external pressure using an early public announcement to Mrs B in her own home of his ‘honorable’ interest in her least favorite daughter (this ungentlemanly act justified to EB after Collins denigrates EB for refusing his ‘worthy’ offer) leading to important inner dialogues from said ruthless suitor (he WANTS EB as his legally wedded wife—a genuine, gently reared gentlewoman & will not be gainsaid) and Lizzy; these reflections are shown to be rather covertly threatening (his) and heartbreakingly innocent (EB) and sadly tragic for us to recall bc women have NOTHING to socially trade with but their reputation during Regency period; Lizzy doesn’t have ‘those kinda feelings’ for Mr Brooke. She rather still pines for FD who’s forever left the County, even tho she knows he will never offer nor value her after the initial Assembly insult and ongoing covert abuse at Netherfield when Jane falls ill) but her loving Papa hopes to lessen rumors and sends her to visit Charlotte at Hunsford to give Lizzy time to accept situation but also trying to have distance lessen unwanted suitor from pressing his troth on Lizzy. Story develops at Hunsford and is believable. We see Wickham (huge surprise coming) and Lady Catherine act as usual; some genuine surprises esp in Aunt Gardiner, and FD while eventually accepting his ardent love for EB must be acted upon, is actually kinda a narcissistic jerk in much of this book. But he grows as a devoted suitor and potential mate eventually. Oh. And the epilogue does stink in this book i mean come on lol but there’s def a HEA!! Oh and Georgiana Darcy is a delight! Will prolly read again for more insight to characterizations, but not for a while. Am currently looking for more of this author’s works based on the strength of this plotting. Overall, a decent book for a cold weekend at home.
January 20, 2024
An interesting retelling of Pride and Prejudice. Darcy is a bit more clued in and pretty protective. Georgiana lends a hand to get a sister. Angsty-bit warning: there is an abduction and non-consensual groping by the abductor. There is also an escape, a marriage or two, true love, an HEA, and some pretty sexy times descriptions yet the language is tempered, and the sexy times are loving, intimacy.
May 23, 2017
So creative and real!
I read a lot of Pride and Prejudice and find this author my absolute favorite of late. She writes with courage about topics often unmentioned in other works. I like that she touches on jealousy and a host of other relationship topics. Yes, I see a very few typos and every time I know exactly what she meant and read on., no big deal.
I read a lot of Pride and Prejudice and find this author my absolute favorite of late. She writes with courage about topics often unmentioned in other works. I like that she touches on jealousy and a host of other relationship topics. Yes, I see a very few typos and every time I know exactly what she meant and read on., no big deal.
December 21, 2024
Wonderful variation
I could not stop reading this variation. It is for adults only. I enjoyed reading about ODC but also Georgianna, Jane, and the twist and turns that are different from the original. I especially enjoyed how the many characters stayed true to Jane Austin’s original writing.
I could not stop reading this variation. It is for adults only. I enjoyed reading about ODC but also Georgianna, Jane, and the twist and turns that are different from the original. I especially enjoyed how the many characters stayed true to Jane Austin’s original writing.
February 7, 2020
Good story
This was a good story on what could of happened if some other man came into Elizabeth 's life. Fortunately, Darcy was able to talk and explain himself to Elizabeth. Brookes was not nice, but not that bad either.
This was a good story on what could of happened if some other man came into Elizabeth 's life. Fortunately, Darcy was able to talk and explain himself to Elizabeth. Brookes was not nice, but not that bad either.
November 2, 2017
It was over far too soon. The author left a lot of odds and ends; I felt that it ended abruptly.
June 17, 2019
Included novella: No Other Way. Enjoable, but not exceptional.
October 8, 2022
2,5/5
May 31, 2023
A Mr. Brooke moves in to the Meryton Neighborhood and seeks Lizzy's hand.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews