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The Secret Betrothal: A Pride and Prejudice Alternate Path
Why would a gentleman ask a lady to conceal their betrothal?
Jane Austen writes of secret engagements in more than one of her novels, and in The Secret Betrothal, author Jan Hahn explores the question of what would happen if Austen’s most famous heroine from Pride and Prejudice reluctantly agrees to accept such a proposal.
When Fitzwilliam Darcy learns that Elizabeth has committed herself to such an arrangement, his hopes of winning her hand are shattered. As circumstances continue to bring the two together—from Hertfordshire to Rosings Park to the seaside town of Brighton—he finds he is unable to tame his desire for the lady who has stolen his heart.
Do Darcy’s efforts to win Elizabeth succeed, or does his sworn enemy lead her to the altar?
From the award-winning author of An Arranged Marriage and The Journey
Jane Austen writes of secret engagements in more than one of her novels, and in The Secret Betrothal, author Jan Hahn explores the question of what would happen if Austen’s most famous heroine from Pride and Prejudice reluctantly agrees to accept such a proposal.
When Fitzwilliam Darcy learns that Elizabeth has committed herself to such an arrangement, his hopes of winning her hand are shattered. As circumstances continue to bring the two together—from Hertfordshire to Rosings Park to the seaside town of Brighton—he finds he is unable to tame his desire for the lady who has stolen his heart.
Do Darcy’s efforts to win Elizabeth succeed, or does his sworn enemy lead her to the altar?
From the award-winning author of An Arranged Marriage and The Journey
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
34 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 19, 2017
4.5 stars
I loved Jan Hahn's other books but when I read in the book description that Elizabeth becomes engaged to Wickham I was never going to buy this book. That thought was so repugnant to me. But then I also read a review of this book on Austenesque Reviews and, again reluctantly, put it on my Wish List. A friend then lent me her kindle version AND I devoured it in a day. There are some *spoilers* here.
This story has to have the most angst (for me) of just about any JAFF I have read. But, as others have said, the author does a good job of convincing us in this story that the Elizabeth would have agreed to a secret betrothal with Wickham. And, yet, we see right from the start of this relationship that Elizabeth has her doubts...and doubts....and doubts. One keeps in mind the canon version and so looks to see the other women to whom Wickham also shows attention, not exactly the truest heart. Mrs. Younge's part in this story is creative. And gives Wickham another reason to deceive.
Elizabeth does not remain true to her own values in this story...but that makes her human and she does realize it at the end and pays a price for such. One primary example is that she receives secret letters from Wickham. And yet when Darcy asks her to read his letter after his disastrous proposal she refuses to take it stating that an unmarried woman does not receive letters from unmarried men. She lies in using excuses for not dancing with Darcy. While she struggles with her decision Darcy, true to canon, struggles with his feelings for Elizabeth, her family, his family and the reactions of the ton if he proposes to one such as Elizabeth. And I was so pleased that after prodding from Col. Fitzwilliam Darcy did NOT prejudge what Elizabeth might have engaged in, physically, with Wickham during their engagement.
Lady Catherine's tonic is another unique twist by this author. Darcy finding Elizabeth asleep against the railing, carrying her into the library, tucking her onto the chaise to sleep and watch over her is such a sigh worthy scene. Then there is the whole Brighton part of the story which was just beautifully depicted. Loved that Elizabeth kept losing her slippers and Darcy in the settlement gave her an allowance for such. There are just too many good parts to talk about - many related by previous reviews. I must say I do not regret reading this. It met the standards by which I judged Jan Hahn's other books.
I have to say that Wickham's thoughts and motivations are much more deeply explored in this book. Not that we learn to like him any better. This man had many mental health problems. His fascination with Elizabeth seems to be deep but only (in what I read) due to the fact that Darcy wanted her first.
Kudos to the author for taking such a repugnant variation and making it work.
I loved Jan Hahn's other books but when I read in the book description that Elizabeth becomes engaged to Wickham I was never going to buy this book. That thought was so repugnant to me. But then I also read a review of this book on Austenesque Reviews and, again reluctantly, put it on my Wish List. A friend then lent me her kindle version AND I devoured it in a day. There are some *spoilers* here.
This story has to have the most angst (for me) of just about any JAFF I have read. But, as others have said, the author does a good job of convincing us in this story that the Elizabeth would have agreed to a secret betrothal with Wickham. And, yet, we see right from the start of this relationship that Elizabeth has her doubts...and doubts....and doubts. One keeps in mind the canon version and so looks to see the other women to whom Wickham also shows attention, not exactly the truest heart. Mrs. Younge's part in this story is creative. And gives Wickham another reason to deceive.
Elizabeth does not remain true to her own values in this story...but that makes her human and she does realize it at the end and pays a price for such. One primary example is that she receives secret letters from Wickham. And yet when Darcy asks her to read his letter after his disastrous proposal she refuses to take it stating that an unmarried woman does not receive letters from unmarried men. She lies in using excuses for not dancing with Darcy. While she struggles with her decision Darcy, true to canon, struggles with his feelings for Elizabeth, her family, his family and the reactions of the ton if he proposes to one such as Elizabeth. And I was so pleased that after prodding from Col. Fitzwilliam Darcy did NOT prejudge what Elizabeth might have engaged in, physically, with Wickham during their engagement.
Lady Catherine's tonic is another unique twist by this author. Darcy finding Elizabeth asleep against the railing, carrying her into the library, tucking her onto the chaise to sleep and watch over her is such a sigh worthy scene. Then there is the whole Brighton part of the story which was just beautifully depicted. Loved that Elizabeth kept losing her slippers and Darcy in the settlement gave her an allowance for such. There are just too many good parts to talk about - many related by previous reviews. I must say I do not regret reading this. It met the standards by which I judged Jan Hahn's other books.
I have to say that Wickham's thoughts and motivations are much more deeply explored in this book. Not that we learn to like him any better. This man had many mental health problems. His fascination with Elizabeth seems to be deep but only (in what I read) due to the fact that Darcy wanted her first.
Kudos to the author for taking such a repugnant variation and making it work.
December 22, 2016
Oh my Elizabeth, how can you be so clueless! In this version of P&P Elizabeth agrees to a secret betrothal to Wickham. She is not quite comfortable with the situation as she leaves to visit Charlotte. A strange and funny situation there causes Elizabeth and Darcy to work together. It is there and then from his point of view the reader learns he depth of Darcy's feelings for Elizabeth. The disastrous proposal is traditional but with an extra reason - she is not free.
Due to health concerns Charlotte is sent to the seaside in Brighton accompanied by Elizabeth and Maria. Of course, Wickham and Lydia are in town too. The treachery of Wickham and the strength of emotion from Darcy all play out to a happy ending for our dear couple with help from their friends.
After all that, I had a hard time with parts of this book. There was more Wickham than usual. His thoughts and behaviors were as I always thought they would be inside his head. Darcy was so emotional and did not really want to know that much. I kind of like the strong silent type. Being in his head was not silent! Elizabeth was not as strong willed as she is usually represented. The best character in the book was the sea. The authors description of the beach, water, rocks, sand, and the salty breeze made me yearn for the water and an open window.
Due to health concerns Charlotte is sent to the seaside in Brighton accompanied by Elizabeth and Maria. Of course, Wickham and Lydia are in town too. The treachery of Wickham and the strength of emotion from Darcy all play out to a happy ending for our dear couple with help from their friends.
After all that, I had a hard time with parts of this book. There was more Wickham than usual. His thoughts and behaviors were as I always thought they would be inside his head. Darcy was so emotional and did not really want to know that much. I kind of like the strong silent type. Being in his head was not silent! Elizabeth was not as strong willed as she is usually represented. The best character in the book was the sea. The authors description of the beach, water, rocks, sand, and the salty breeze made me yearn for the water and an open window.
December 31, 2015
Lovely variation!!!
This was a nice read ... Lots of sweet moments and memories made in this story... Darcy and Elizabeth seemed pretty true to character and shared a good story... I am glad I discovered and read all of Jan Hahn's books this week!
This was a nice read ... Lots of sweet moments and memories made in this story... Darcy and Elizabeth seemed pretty true to character and shared a good story... I am glad I discovered and read all of Jan Hahn's books this week!
May 17, 2014
In her latest and much anticipated Pride and Prejudice variation, author Jan Hahn has boldly and daringly done the unthinkable…she has engaged Elizabeth Bennet to George Wickham! And she’s not just engaged – but secretly engaged! *gasp* Can you believe it? What on earth is Elizabeth thinking!?! ;)
I must admit I didn’t find Elizabeth’s behavior all that unfathomable. This is partly because Jan Hahn did an excellent job creating a believable sequence of events that gradually lead Lizzy into such a predicament. Lizzy doesn’t immediately accept Wickham’s proposals or request for secrecy, but she does eventually consent due to her compassion for Wickham and her inexperience with men (master manipulators like Wickham are definitely beyond her ken!). I think Elizabeth’s sympathetic nature, sense of justice (Lizzy champions the wronged!) and her belief that she may one day have a love match like her aunt and uncle (who she just discovered weren’t in love when they wed) also steer Lizzy on this unlikely path. Keeping secrets from her sister and engaging in a deception is definitely not a part of Lizzy’s character…but women everywhere often make mistakes for the men in their lives.
Another reason I found Elizabeth’s actions so believable is because it strongly reminded me of another intelligent and sensible Jane Austen character – Jane Fairfax from Emma. Jane had the advantage of growing up around “right-minded and well-informed people,” yet she was dishonest to her loved ones and kept secrets from them for months! And like Elizabeth, Jane too receives a lot of pain and discomfort from her secret, not to mention the torture and humiliation of seeing her betrothed flirt with and pursue other women. Poor Lizzy! And poor Jane! After witnessing what Lizzy went through with Wickham and Mary King I have much more sympathy for Jane Fairfax!
There were several elements I enjoyed about this variation…besides its inventive and daring premise. ;) I loved witnessing all of Darcy’s emotions and reactions to Elizabeth’s betrothal – he definitely has a lot of conflict to work through! I loved the scenes where he shows his ardent admiration for and constant protection of Elizabeth. I thought the episode with the spring tonic was brilliant. (Way to go, Lady Catherine. High five.) I enjoyed seeing Darcy, Elizabeth, and Colonel Fitzwilliam work together to take care of all the invalids. In addition, I delighted in our sojourn to Brighton! The ocean, the sand, the rocks – what a gorgeous backdrop! I loved how the diverse and dynamic scenery reflected the turbulent emotions experienced by both Darcy and Elizabeth while staying there. And those walks on the beach…loved the vivid descriptions of Elizabeth’s rambles on the sand!
The one main aspect of this variation that I wasn’t too fond of and the reason I can’t give this story a higher rating is George Wickham. I felt that as a character, George was a little inconsistent. I don’t mind it when characters are complex or hard to figure out, but by the end of the novel I want to understand them. I didn’t feel that with Wickham. Like Lizzy, I tried making out Wickham’s character but felt I did not “get on at all” and the differing accounts I witnessed did “puzzle me exceedingly.” In addition, I wasn’t too fond of how prominent Wickham was towards the end of the novel – what he did and what happened to him stole focus from the beautiful and long-awaited happily-ever-after the author skillfully constructed.
Despite some quibbles, I was quite enraptured by Jan Hahn’s emotive and evocative storytelling! Definitely not an easy book to put down! If you are curious to read a unique Pride and Prejudice variation or gain new sympathy for Jane Fairfax, you might want to give The Secret Betrothal a try!
I must admit I didn’t find Elizabeth’s behavior all that unfathomable. This is partly because Jan Hahn did an excellent job creating a believable sequence of events that gradually lead Lizzy into such a predicament. Lizzy doesn’t immediately accept Wickham’s proposals or request for secrecy, but she does eventually consent due to her compassion for Wickham and her inexperience with men (master manipulators like Wickham are definitely beyond her ken!). I think Elizabeth’s sympathetic nature, sense of justice (Lizzy champions the wronged!) and her belief that she may one day have a love match like her aunt and uncle (who she just discovered weren’t in love when they wed) also steer Lizzy on this unlikely path. Keeping secrets from her sister and engaging in a deception is definitely not a part of Lizzy’s character…but women everywhere often make mistakes for the men in their lives.
Another reason I found Elizabeth’s actions so believable is because it strongly reminded me of another intelligent and sensible Jane Austen character – Jane Fairfax from Emma. Jane had the advantage of growing up around “right-minded and well-informed people,” yet she was dishonest to her loved ones and kept secrets from them for months! And like Elizabeth, Jane too receives a lot of pain and discomfort from her secret, not to mention the torture and humiliation of seeing her betrothed flirt with and pursue other women. Poor Lizzy! And poor Jane! After witnessing what Lizzy went through with Wickham and Mary King I have much more sympathy for Jane Fairfax!
There were several elements I enjoyed about this variation…besides its inventive and daring premise. ;) I loved witnessing all of Darcy’s emotions and reactions to Elizabeth’s betrothal – he definitely has a lot of conflict to work through! I loved the scenes where he shows his ardent admiration for and constant protection of Elizabeth. I thought the episode with the spring tonic was brilliant. (Way to go, Lady Catherine. High five.) I enjoyed seeing Darcy, Elizabeth, and Colonel Fitzwilliam work together to take care of all the invalids. In addition, I delighted in our sojourn to Brighton! The ocean, the sand, the rocks – what a gorgeous backdrop! I loved how the diverse and dynamic scenery reflected the turbulent emotions experienced by both Darcy and Elizabeth while staying there. And those walks on the beach…loved the vivid descriptions of Elizabeth’s rambles on the sand!
The one main aspect of this variation that I wasn’t too fond of and the reason I can’t give this story a higher rating is George Wickham. I felt that as a character, George was a little inconsistent. I don’t mind it when characters are complex or hard to figure out, but by the end of the novel I want to understand them. I didn’t feel that with Wickham. Like Lizzy, I tried making out Wickham’s character but felt I did not “get on at all” and the differing accounts I witnessed did “puzzle me exceedingly.” In addition, I wasn’t too fond of how prominent Wickham was towards the end of the novel – what he did and what happened to him stole focus from the beautiful and long-awaited happily-ever-after the author skillfully constructed.
Despite some quibbles, I was quite enraptured by Jan Hahn’s emotive and evocative storytelling! Definitely not an easy book to put down! If you are curious to read a unique Pride and Prejudice variation or gain new sympathy for Jane Fairfax, you might want to give The Secret Betrothal a try!
August 6, 2023
A Gullible Elizabeth
With hook, line, and sinker, Elizabeth falls for Wickham’s lies and charms in this Pride and Prejudice variation—to the point where she is deceived into accepting a secret engagement with him. As circumstances separate them for some months, Elizabeth begins to hear rumours of his inconstancy, yet she refuses to believe he could be such a man.
Meanwhile, she has refused Darcy’s proposal, and his letter. Before he can leave Rosings, Lady Catherine’s spring tonic makes everyone ill but Elizabeth, Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam, who refused to partake of it. When Charlotte’s health continues to plague her recovery, the ladies of Hunsford parsonage go to Brighton and stay at Lady Catherine’s cottage. Additional events and rumours finally open Elizabeth’s eyes, but will it be too late?
As with all of this author’s books, I love her writing and her imagination. In this one, I especially loved Darcy’s expressions, and her scene descriptions on the beach were beautifully and vividly depicted.
What I didn’t especially love was the premise of this story—Elizabeth betrothed to Wickham—and knowing what it was, it has taken me years to read it. I don’t enjoy a gullible Elizabeth very much, but acknowledging that this is the story the author wanted to tell, in that, it is very well done. Elizabeth may have succumbed to a rogue’s charms and lies, but when she had something to say she said it well. Yet, even at the end, I was annoyed that she would express guilt for him.
I anxiously await and hope for the day when Ms. Hahn treats us to a new release.
Recommend
Content is clean with kisses only.
With hook, line, and sinker, Elizabeth falls for Wickham’s lies and charms in this Pride and Prejudice variation—to the point where she is deceived into accepting a secret engagement with him. As circumstances separate them for some months, Elizabeth begins to hear rumours of his inconstancy, yet she refuses to believe he could be such a man.
Meanwhile, she has refused Darcy’s proposal, and his letter. Before he can leave Rosings, Lady Catherine’s spring tonic makes everyone ill but Elizabeth, Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam, who refused to partake of it. When Charlotte’s health continues to plague her recovery, the ladies of Hunsford parsonage go to Brighton and stay at Lady Catherine’s cottage. Additional events and rumours finally open Elizabeth’s eyes, but will it be too late?
As with all of this author’s books, I love her writing and her imagination. In this one, I especially loved Darcy’s expressions, and her scene descriptions on the beach were beautifully and vividly depicted.
What I didn’t especially love was the premise of this story—Elizabeth betrothed to Wickham—and knowing what it was, it has taken me years to read it. I don’t enjoy a gullible Elizabeth very much, but acknowledging that this is the story the author wanted to tell, in that, it is very well done. Elizabeth may have succumbed to a rogue’s charms and lies, but when she had something to say she said it well. Yet, even at the end, I was annoyed that she would express guilt for him.
I anxiously await and hope for the day when Ms. Hahn treats us to a new release.
Recommend
Content is clean with kisses only.
August 5, 2016
I very much enjoyed this very novel novel. When Mr. Darcy offends Lizzy Bennet she opens her heart to his mortal enemy - Wickham. forsaking everything she has been taught she enters into a peculiar sort of betrothal with Lt. Wickham; it must be secret. Almost immediately he behaves in such a way to make her question the plan, but as it is secret there is nothing she can really do; so she heads to Rosings to visit the Collins. There she encounters Mr. Darcy and he proposes she declines in her usual fashion but not without telling him she is betrothed to someone else.
Then a bunch of craziness occurs that keeps Lizzy in Darcy's orbit; while moving the whole company to Brighton. There is much appropriate drama and angst and Lizzy loses her shoes frequently. But true love will out.
Then a bunch of craziness occurs that keeps Lizzy in Darcy's orbit; while moving the whole company to Brighton. There is much appropriate drama and angst and Lizzy loses her shoes frequently. But true love will out.
January 6, 2016
In this variation, Elizabeth agrees to a secret engagement with Wickham. She is incredibly uncomfortable with it, but Wickham is able to convince her that it's necessary. As she slowly falls for Darcy instead, she realizes she needs to end it with Wickham, causing scandal, and a very upset Darcy.
Pros: The book was definitely entertaining, and well written. I think it was an interesting premise, and I'm glad I gave it a chance. Darcy truly loves Elizabeth, which is nice, Lydia is as crazy as ever, and Wickham is just as evil. I like how he really becomes obsessed over Elizabeth in the end when he can't have her, and how he really starts to believe his own lies. I think compulsive liars are often like that - they start to believe all their tales that they made up.
Cons: Elizabeth really annoyed me. This is another variation where she is just incredibly cruel to Darcy to begin with. In this variation she even refuses to take his letter after the proposal. In P&P I always understood her prejudice against Darcy, because of the way he treated her, but some variations just make her overreact, even when he's kind of being nice. This is one of those variations. Even in the end, she just seems to be overdramatic in things that happen (I know that sounds vague, but I don't want to give away any spoilers). Elizabeth overall just seemed very high drama.
It was good, and worth at least one read through for Janeites.
Pros: The book was definitely entertaining, and well written. I think it was an interesting premise, and I'm glad I gave it a chance. Darcy truly loves Elizabeth, which is nice, Lydia is as crazy as ever, and Wickham is just as evil. I like how he really becomes obsessed over Elizabeth in the end when he can't have her, and how he really starts to believe his own lies. I think compulsive liars are often like that - they start to believe all their tales that they made up.
Cons: Elizabeth really annoyed me. This is another variation where she is just incredibly cruel to Darcy to begin with. In this variation she even refuses to take his letter after the proposal. In P&P I always understood her prejudice against Darcy, because of the way he treated her, but some variations just make her overreact, even when he's kind of being nice. This is one of those variations. Even in the end, she just seems to be overdramatic in things that happen (I know that sounds vague, but I don't want to give away any spoilers). Elizabeth overall just seemed very high drama.
It was good, and worth at least one read through for Janeites.
Read
November 3, 2017Check out my review on Diary of an Eccentric
August 20, 2014
Knowing a book is on the horizon months before it's release date is torture, especially when it is one of your favourite authors. So as you can imagine, when I finally got hold of A Secret Betrothal, it was read within days. What a premise, Elizabeth secretly betrothed to Wickham! "Well I never!!!!" Never did I think Elizabeth so blind! Yet I cast my mind back to the original P&P, when she believed Wickham's lies and was very partial to him at one time, even warranting a lecture from her aunt Gardiner on the evils of such an imprudent match.
What I find with Jan's stories is that Elizabeth has more Prejudice and Darcy has less Pride. Yet this storyline has to be the ultimate extreme of Elizabeth's blind prejudice, I was tutting and shaking my head throughout this book at Elizabeth's foolish gullibility, will she ever learn!! Looking back through my highlights and notes for this review I think the following note sums up my sentiments "Elizabeth, constantly Championing Wickham is getting on my nerves, why is she ignoring her gut instinct!!!"
"Being young and inexperienced and looking to Darcy as my model, I was lured into the gaming halls and, consequently, I ran up a bit of debt." - Jan Hahn
The story begins just before the Netherfield ball, with Bingley and Darcy tarrying longer to attend the Mistletoe ball in Meryton. Wickham notices Darcy's preference for Elizabeth and determined to have something Darcy cannot, proposes to Elizabeth; all the while managing to spin another tale as to why their betrothal must remain secret. Wow I thought Lydia was foolish, apparently not!
Rosings still sees Darcy's disastrous proposal, however as Elizabeth is betrothed to that weasel Wickham, she will not accept Darcy's letter of explanation.
Mr Collins is at his finest! His eagerness to please Lady Catherine leads to utter chaos and tragedy for dear Charlotte, leaving Darcy no choice but to stay on at Rosings a little while longer. When Elizabeth meets him at Rosings again, with his shirt sleeves rolled up, we see indeed that the master of Pemberley has no improper pride, he is willing to get his hands dirty!!! Will Elizabeth finally get to see the Darcy we all know and love.
The second half of this story takes place in Brighton and I always love a new place so that my imagination can take hold,.With places like Longbourn or Netherfield I feel I already know them, before I have even picked up a book. But never before have I visited Lady Catherine seaside retreat nor do I think she would ever extend an invitation for me to stay there! However I did enjoy my time, especially the beach and rocks that featured so frequently.
Wickham was indeed a surprise despite the fact that I despised him, by the end of the story I actually felt I may have seen a glimpse of the man behind the deceit for a change. For angst, there was one particular scene at the Foresters ball in Brighton that had me literally holding my breath. I actually felt like I was in the crowd listening to it all unfold, I was all astonishment as Miss Bingley would say and I felt all the nauseating symptoms Elizabeth would have been feeling, as well as the hurt Mr Darcy would have suffered. Well done Jan that was a great bit of angst, especially as you had me saying out loud "oh no, oh no, I cannot believe it" prompting family members to enquire after my health. "Are you okay?" "yes yes, but I could strangle that Wickham if given half a chance, he's despicable!!!" They look at you strangely and slowly step away.
"This man had held her close, so close he spoke of her scent . . . he had kissed her lips . . . he knew Elizabeth intimately. Darcy crushed the scrap of paper in his fist and slammed it against the wall, crying out with a curse of anguish too mournful to describe" - Jan Hahn
Darcy's despair in this book was conveyed so well, I really felt his pain and all because he loves Elizabeth. I cannot reiterate enough that with Jan's stories I never feel any dislike towards Darcy, yet Elizabeth is so stubborn and I constantly get annoyed with her. At the end of this book Elizabeth is left feeling guilty about an event that takes place and although it does her credit in showing she is very similar to Jane. I was yet again left feeling frustrated with her, argh!!!! Thank goodness Jane talked some sense into her as I had a few choice words of my own.
Another great instalment from Jan Hahn, although my favourite of hers remains the same. My order of preference is as follows The Journey, An Arranged Marriage, The Secret Betrothal.
Originally posted on My Kids led Me Back to Pride & Prejudice
What I find with Jan's stories is that Elizabeth has more Prejudice and Darcy has less Pride. Yet this storyline has to be the ultimate extreme of Elizabeth's blind prejudice, I was tutting and shaking my head throughout this book at Elizabeth's foolish gullibility, will she ever learn!! Looking back through my highlights and notes for this review I think the following note sums up my sentiments "Elizabeth, constantly Championing Wickham is getting on my nerves, why is she ignoring her gut instinct!!!"
"Being young and inexperienced and looking to Darcy as my model, I was lured into the gaming halls and, consequently, I ran up a bit of debt." - Jan Hahn
The story begins just before the Netherfield ball, with Bingley and Darcy tarrying longer to attend the Mistletoe ball in Meryton. Wickham notices Darcy's preference for Elizabeth and determined to have something Darcy cannot, proposes to Elizabeth; all the while managing to spin another tale as to why their betrothal must remain secret. Wow I thought Lydia was foolish, apparently not!
Rosings still sees Darcy's disastrous proposal, however as Elizabeth is betrothed to that weasel Wickham, she will not accept Darcy's letter of explanation.
Mr Collins is at his finest! His eagerness to please Lady Catherine leads to utter chaos and tragedy for dear Charlotte, leaving Darcy no choice but to stay on at Rosings a little while longer. When Elizabeth meets him at Rosings again, with his shirt sleeves rolled up, we see indeed that the master of Pemberley has no improper pride, he is willing to get his hands dirty!!! Will Elizabeth finally get to see the Darcy we all know and love.
The second half of this story takes place in Brighton and I always love a new place so that my imagination can take hold,.With places like Longbourn or Netherfield I feel I already know them, before I have even picked up a book. But never before have I visited Lady Catherine seaside retreat nor do I think she would ever extend an invitation for me to stay there! However I did enjoy my time, especially the beach and rocks that featured so frequently.
Wickham was indeed a surprise despite the fact that I despised him, by the end of the story I actually felt I may have seen a glimpse of the man behind the deceit for a change. For angst, there was one particular scene at the Foresters ball in Brighton that had me literally holding my breath. I actually felt like I was in the crowd listening to it all unfold, I was all astonishment as Miss Bingley would say and I felt all the nauseating symptoms Elizabeth would have been feeling, as well as the hurt Mr Darcy would have suffered. Well done Jan that was a great bit of angst, especially as you had me saying out loud "oh no, oh no, I cannot believe it" prompting family members to enquire after my health. "Are you okay?" "yes yes, but I could strangle that Wickham if given half a chance, he's despicable!!!" They look at you strangely and slowly step away.
"This man had held her close, so close he spoke of her scent . . . he had kissed her lips . . . he knew Elizabeth intimately. Darcy crushed the scrap of paper in his fist and slammed it against the wall, crying out with a curse of anguish too mournful to describe" - Jan Hahn
Darcy's despair in this book was conveyed so well, I really felt his pain and all because he loves Elizabeth. I cannot reiterate enough that with Jan's stories I never feel any dislike towards Darcy, yet Elizabeth is so stubborn and I constantly get annoyed with her. At the end of this book Elizabeth is left feeling guilty about an event that takes place and although it does her credit in showing she is very similar to Jane. I was yet again left feeling frustrated with her, argh!!!! Thank goodness Jane talked some sense into her as I had a few choice words of my own.
Another great instalment from Jan Hahn, although my favourite of hers remains the same. My order of preference is as follows The Journey, An Arranged Marriage, The Secret Betrothal.
Originally posted on My Kids led Me Back to Pride & Prejudice
May 12, 2014
***Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.***
I loved this story! The Secret Betrothal is a wonderful retelling of Pride and Prejudice that takes us down a path different from the original. I love it when an author takes my two favorite characters and puts them in some new situations, just as Jan Hahn has done in this one.
What if, Elizabeth was so angry and hurt by Mr. Darcy’s “tolerable” remark and haughty behavior that she goes against her better judgement and accepts a man under conditions that she usually wouldn’t do? She lets her judgement of the man cloud her sensibilities, and she blindly accepts Mr. Wickham’s tales. And what if, knowing Mr. Darcy as well as he does, Mr. Wickham realizes there may be another way to seek his revenge...by taking away something that Mr. Darcy really wants. Elizabeth.
There is so much I enjoyed about this story! We all know Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth will have their happily ever after, but the fun is getting there! I loved watching Elizabeth learn what an honorable man Mr. Darcy truly is, and what a rogue Mr. Wickham is. In the end, I found myself wondering if Mr. Wickham could actually regret his past behavior, and if Elizabeth really could have made him a better man.
I found humor in Lady Catherine’s Spring tonic, which, unfortunately, caused everyone at Rosing and the Parsonage to become very sick, but allowed Elizabeth to see a kind and caring Darcy. And I cringed and chuckled, when Elizabeth had no one else to turn to, she turned to her mother for some advice about love! Haha! What was she thinking?!
I enjoyed how the story passes quickly over parts of the story that are in the original, noting that they happen, but not going into detail. Focusing on scenes that are different. There is much less time repeating what we already know.
The Secret Betrothal is a fun read, and one that kept me up late into the night! I’ve enjoyed Jan Hahn’s other books An Arranged Marriage and The Journey and was happy that the same held true for this! I would recommend this one to anyone who loves Jane Austen Fan Fiction!
***Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.***
I loved this story! The Secret Betrothal is a wonderful retelling of Pride and Prejudice that takes us down a path different from the original. I love it when an author takes my two favorite characters and puts them in some new situations, just as Jan Hahn has done in this one.
What if, Elizabeth was so angry and hurt by Mr. Darcy’s “tolerable” remark and haughty behavior that she goes against her better judgement and accepts a man under conditions that she usually wouldn’t do? She lets her judgement of the man cloud her sensibilities, and she blindly accepts Mr. Wickham’s tales. And what if, knowing Mr. Darcy as well as he does, Mr. Wickham realizes there may be another way to seek his revenge...by taking away something that Mr. Darcy really wants. Elizabeth.
There is so much I enjoyed about this story! We all know Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth will have their happily ever after, but the fun is getting there! I loved watching Elizabeth learn what an honorable man Mr. Darcy truly is, and what a rogue Mr. Wickham is. In the end, I found myself wondering if Mr. Wickham could actually regret his past behavior, and if Elizabeth really could have made him a better man.
I found humor in Lady Catherine’s Spring tonic, which, unfortunately, caused everyone at Rosing and the Parsonage to become very sick, but allowed Elizabeth to see a kind and caring Darcy. And I cringed and chuckled, when Elizabeth had no one else to turn to, she turned to her mother for some advice about love! Haha! What was she thinking?!
I enjoyed how the story passes quickly over parts of the story that are in the original, noting that they happen, but not going into detail. Focusing on scenes that are different. There is much less time repeating what we already know.
The Secret Betrothal is a fun read, and one that kept me up late into the night! I’ve enjoyed Jan Hahn’s other books An Arranged Marriage and The Journey and was happy that the same held true for this! I would recommend this one to anyone who loves Jane Austen Fan Fiction!
***Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.***
August 28, 2016
Very enjoyable.
Although Elizabeth makes a huge mistake, I believe she is still true to the Austen Elizabeth. She rushes to judgement with her usual flare, but this time to the extent of agreeing to an engagement. Her regrets come almost as soon as the words of agreement leave her mouth. And, keeping it a secret doesn't sit right with her. She is correct; in the long run, she finds she should have told someone and discussed it at length.
This adds another layer to her misunderstandings with Mr. Darcy. They have the same issues as in canon, but now, after Hunsford, he is the only one who knows about the secret betrothal. She lets him know she is secretly engaged in order to explain why she will not take the letter he has written regarding her reasons for refusing his proposal. He wants to step away, but knows it is not an honorable man that asks for a secret engagement. So, he finds he must persuade Elizabeth against it, even if it does not turn her towards him.
In the meantime, a serious medical problem keeps Elizabeth and Darcy at Rosings, and she begins to see a side of him she could not believe was there. Now things become even more complicated. Elizabeth is engaged secretly to a man she is learning more and more about, and not to the positive. And, she is working side by side with a man she thought she loathed, but is now learning to respect.
Of course, this has your normal HEA (or I couldn't read it!). I found this a very feasible variation and enjoyed the authors writing. I felt all of the characters were true to canon. I would recommend to other JAFF lovers.
Although Elizabeth makes a huge mistake, I believe she is still true to the Austen Elizabeth. She rushes to judgement with her usual flare, but this time to the extent of agreeing to an engagement. Her regrets come almost as soon as the words of agreement leave her mouth. And, keeping it a secret doesn't sit right with her. She is correct; in the long run, she finds she should have told someone and discussed it at length.
This adds another layer to her misunderstandings with Mr. Darcy. They have the same issues as in canon, but now, after Hunsford, he is the only one who knows about the secret betrothal. She lets him know she is secretly engaged in order to explain why she will not take the letter he has written regarding her reasons for refusing his proposal. He wants to step away, but knows it is not an honorable man that asks for a secret engagement. So, he finds he must persuade Elizabeth against it, even if it does not turn her towards him.
In the meantime, a serious medical problem keeps Elizabeth and Darcy at Rosings, and she begins to see a side of him she could not believe was there. Now things become even more complicated. Elizabeth is engaged secretly to a man she is learning more and more about, and not to the positive. And, she is working side by side with a man she thought she loathed, but is now learning to respect.
Of course, this has your normal HEA (or I couldn't read it!). I found this a very feasible variation and enjoyed the authors writing. I felt all of the characters were true to canon. I would recommend to other JAFF lovers.
May 9, 2014
It was an excellent read. Despite the fact that the author chose very difficult, and I would say even sometimes revolting, topic for her variation (secret betrothal of Elizabeth to Wickham), she led Darcy and Lizzy to being together very skillfully and smoothly. And despite my strong resistance to the idea of having too much Wickham in the book, I immensely enjoyed those wonderful moments shared by main couple, moments when Lizzy is gradually coming to realization of her real feelings and her understanding of Darcy's true character as well as moments when Darcy is fighting his feelings towards her(and always loosing:))). Jan Hahn masterfully created a great story, her writing style is very engaging and makes it rather difficult to stop reading until you finish half a book in one sitting:)
But if I were a nit picker, I would say that I did not care much for epilogue part after the wedding. I understand logical need for continuing the story to show the closure with Wickham and Lidia, but I had enough of that rascal to really want to know what happens with him. So instead of a simple happily ever after as dreamy end, we get to have a glimpse of how our beloved married couple overcomes certain hurdles on their path to eternal happily ever after, which is not a bad thing at all. Just not to my particular liking:)
So overall, The Secret Betrothal is a great book and a must for lovers of skillful P & P variations.
But if I were a nit picker, I would say that I did not care much for epilogue part after the wedding. I understand logical need for continuing the story to show the closure with Wickham and Lidia, but I had enough of that rascal to really want to know what happens with him. So instead of a simple happily ever after as dreamy end, we get to have a glimpse of how our beloved married couple overcomes certain hurdles on their path to eternal happily ever after, which is not a bad thing at all. Just not to my particular liking:)
So overall, The Secret Betrothal is a great book and a must for lovers of skillful P & P variations.
March 3, 2012
OMG where to begin!!! I absolutely love this story. This is my favorite story by Jan Hahn!! She must definitely have this one published!!!!
This story starts out much like P&P but it takes a wild turn when Wickham actually asks Elizabeth to marry him. But what makes it more intriguing is that he insists that it be a secret engagement. The story goes on and Lizzy's is confused and unable to confide in Jane. The journey and the enlightenment that she goes on is tumultious. Of course along the way some diverting scenes play out and of course love always wins out in the end, but the journey may be long and full of angst but well worth it. Of course the characters were just what is expected. Mr Collin a baffoon, Lady C overbearing and most definitely Wickham the blackgaurd. Now all is needed is for Mr Darcy to come to the rescue!! A definite must read for JAFF fans. This story must be published for the massas:)
This story starts out much like P&P but it takes a wild turn when Wickham actually asks Elizabeth to marry him. But what makes it more intriguing is that he insists that it be a secret engagement. The story goes on and Lizzy's is confused and unable to confide in Jane. The journey and the enlightenment that she goes on is tumultious. Of course along the way some diverting scenes play out and of course love always wins out in the end, but the journey may be long and full of angst but well worth it. Of course the characters were just what is expected. Mr Collin a baffoon, Lady C overbearing and most definitely Wickham the blackgaurd. Now all is needed is for Mr Darcy to come to the rescue!! A definite must read for JAFF fans. This story must be published for the massas:)
April 9, 2018
Lies, deception, secrets and confusion are involved in this secret betrothal. It is a well written novel showing Wickham's silver tongue working and Elizabeth's believing in him and doubting Darcy's words. Once again, Wickham is at work causing chaos. Darcy never gives up hope that Lizzy will be his and he saves the Bennet family in more ways than one.
Naturally Lydia is there again to cause a ruckus and she gets what she want in the end and pays the price.
The novel shows Darcy as he always is and comes to the aid of whoever needs it with the help of Colonel Fitzwilliam.
Naturally Lydia is there again to cause a ruckus and she gets what she want in the end and pays the price.
The novel shows Darcy as he always is and comes to the aid of whoever needs it with the help of Colonel Fitzwilliam.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2014
I enjoyed this latest book - it was fun to have an additional location (Brighton) introduced to the story. Elizabeth makes an unwise decision while at the center of competing pressures - a quandary most of us will experience during our lifetimes. I thought the second half of the book especially drew me as a reader to understand the isolation and pain of secrecy, and the final outcome was a surprise!
May 25, 2014
In this Pride and Prejudice variation Elizabeth Bennet is secretly betrothed to Wickham!. I was not sure before I read the book whether I would find this action believable but the writing propelled me through the story.
Can Darcy win the hand of Lizzy as they meet at Rosings and Brighton?
I do not give any book on the first read 5 stars, but I believe this is one of the books that once I have read again I will change to 5.
Can Darcy win the hand of Lizzy as they meet at Rosings and Brighton?
I do not give any book on the first read 5 stars, but I believe this is one of the books that once I have read again I will change to 5.
January 13, 2014
What a wonderful P&P variation! I was in need of a great JAFF book after reading one of the worst JAFF books which left me with a sour taste. The Engagement definitely fit the bill. My husband wasn't thrilled with The Engagement though as I read it in one day. I can't wait to read rewritten version when it's published!
March 10, 2014
Read this originally on JAFF. Although I don't believe Elizabeth would go down this road with Wickham, I really enjoyed it! Mr. Darcy is very determined to win Elizabeth and never gives up. Great escape!
November 30, 2014
Wonderful! Great twists. Well written.
May 31, 2015
I love this author. I was a bit afraid of who was betrothed and how the story would play out but my fear was unfounded. I loved this book. It was terrific.
August 14, 2016
Loved this book! All of Jan Hahn's retellings of Pride and Prejudice have been wonderful.
April 15, 2015
The Secret Betrothal - A Pride and Prejudice Alternate Path
This was an enjoyable story that deviates from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. That being said, I was disappointed in Lizzy's lack of sense over Wickham's secret engagement. In her overwhelming prejudice against Darcy, she lost all of her ability to think about how wrong the entire agreement between them was in Recency England. Mary should have been reading sermons and morals in her ear. When in Hunsford, meeting Darcy again was not high on her list other than she could not deny her feelings when she was around him. When she hears all the news about Wickham and Mary King, that should have awaken her to Wickham's no good self completely, not apologizing to him for his indiscretions. Darcy's proposal was poorly executed, but when she tells him she has an understanding with another that's a secret, Darcy at least started thinking of who that could be. But since Elizabeth has not been told of Wickham's wicked propensity to lie, cheat, gamble, and ruin young ladies, he doesn't even give Wickham any thought. The tonic that Lady Catherine gives everyone but, Elizabeth, Darcy, and Colonel Fitzwilliam, makes everyone sick in both Rosings and the parsonage. Charlotte is the most sick, has a miscarriage, and develops a cough that if it settles in her lungs could cause death. Darcy's doctor is brought from London, because the local doctor started leeches to cure her. Both Darcy and Elizabeth are appalled at this ancient practice. Getting better, but weak and coughing, the doctor suggests that she is taken to Brighton . Lizzy and Maria are to accompany her, and Lady Catherine has given them her summer house, Waverley, to stay in while they're there. Darcy convinces Collins to go for a short while to see that he wife is settled, but his real reason for this is so that her can stay also. He cannot give up on Elizabeth. The military is here in Brighton including the company in command of Colonel Forster. Lizzy sees Wickham strolling around with young ladies, one being her sister. She's trying to stay away from him, because she has finally put some of his not so neat characteristics together, and she doesn't like what she sees. On evening while all the company was gathered at Waverley, she and Darcy debate about the lines in one of Wordsworth's poems. She tells him he's wrong, and she will get her book to prove it. When she picks up her book, the letter that she refused to take at Hunsford is stuck in the front. This time she'll read it. She never comes back downstairs, because after reading about why he hates Wickham, she is completely mortified and embarrassed that she defended a useless man and condemned a good man in her blind prejudice. At the Ball given by Colonel and Mrs. Forster, when Elizabeth tells Wickham that the secret betrothal is over, to spite her, he has the colonel announce their engagement. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy are in the audience. When Elizabeth wants to say something, she tells the crowd that there is no betrothal between her and Wickham and that she told him that this evening. Darcy leaves on his horse and doesn't return home to Waverley. When Colonel Fitzwilliam finds him, Darcy is torn between leaving Elizabeth Bennet for good, or going back to win her love. By the time the good colonel has set him straight, Darcy returns to Waverley. Entering Waverley, he hears someone crying on the lounge chair on the terrace. He stands there quietly and discovers that it is Elizabeth. He wants to just hold her and comfort her, but sheen she hears him, she runs past him to her room. When he arises from his short sleep, he realizes only Mr. and Mrs. Collins are downstairs. When he asks if Maria and Elizabeth have gone out, she tells him that Maria is visiting Lydia, and Elizabeth is walking the beach until the coach comes to take her home to Longbourn. Hardly able to speak when Charlotte tells him that she has brought disgrace to him and Waverley, she must leave. He's out the terrace doors to find Elizabeth. When she sees him coming towards her, she tries to avoid him. He tells her she can leave Brighton, but he will never leave her. Seeing that he still loves her and she him, Elizabeth tells him that she'll marry him. Their joy was to last from the time to walk from the beach through the terrace doors. Lydia had been thrown out of Webster House by the Forsters. Lydia had spent the night with Wickham in her bed chamber. When Elizabeth talks to her, this was not the first time Lydia had allowed him lover's duties, and Elizabeth was sure Lydia was pregnant. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy go to Colonel Forster the next morning. Forster doesn't care what happens to Wickham, because he wants him gone. He rightly expects his wife allowed the dalliance besides favoring Wickham herself. The first talk with Wickham didn't convince him to marry Lydia, but Darcy alone faced him the next day, and Wickham decided with a little help from Darcy, monetary and otherwise, that he'd marry Lydia. Five days later, Lydia and Wickham were married, him with a black eye and red misshapened nose. Returning to Longbourn, Elizabeth got to work on her wedding. Darcy wanted it sooner than later. When Bingley returns, he wasted no time proposing to Jane. A double wedding is suggested and agreed upon, but Darcy told her, "Each day he waits takes a little life out of him and by their wedding day he'll be on his death bed!" The Darcys head straight to Pemberley. The first night they stay at Greenfield Hall in Northamptonshire owed by his cousin, James Fitzwilliam. After cleaning up and dressing for dinner, Darcy notices much of Lizzy's earlier happiness and high spirits are gone. When he finally gets her to tell him the problem, she allows him to take the lead on their wedding night. Seven months into their marriage, Fitzwilliam summons Darcy to Rosings, Anne has died at twenty-six, and Lady Catherine is in need of her nephew. Four weeks later, Lizzy needs a walk around the park of Pemberley. She heads to the old folly build by Darcy's grandfather for his wife. When she arrives, Wickham is there. He tries to sweet talk her into loving him and to leave Darcy. She reminds him that he is married, and she never loved him. She also reminds him he's not to be on Pemberley's grounds. He pulls the ribbon out that he took when they pledged their secret betrothal. She tells him it was all a mistake and to leave. She hurries off back to the manor house, and Wickham leaves. Wickham's fascination with Elizabeth was his demise. When Lady Catherine passed, she had successfully matched Fitzwilliam with his wife. She left Rosings to Fitzwilliam, and Waverley to Darcy's heir. Many happy summer's were spent at Waverley by all the family. Be sure to count how many times Neptune claimed Lizzy's shoes!
This was an enjoyable story that deviates from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. That being said, I was disappointed in Lizzy's lack of sense over Wickham's secret engagement. In her overwhelming prejudice against Darcy, she lost all of her ability to think about how wrong the entire agreement between them was in Recency England. Mary should have been reading sermons and morals in her ear. When in Hunsford, meeting Darcy again was not high on her list other than she could not deny her feelings when she was around him. When she hears all the news about Wickham and Mary King, that should have awaken her to Wickham's no good self completely, not apologizing to him for his indiscretions. Darcy's proposal was poorly executed, but when she tells him she has an understanding with another that's a secret, Darcy at least started thinking of who that could be. But since Elizabeth has not been told of Wickham's wicked propensity to lie, cheat, gamble, and ruin young ladies, he doesn't even give Wickham any thought. The tonic that Lady Catherine gives everyone but, Elizabeth, Darcy, and Colonel Fitzwilliam, makes everyone sick in both Rosings and the parsonage. Charlotte is the most sick, has a miscarriage, and develops a cough that if it settles in her lungs could cause death. Darcy's doctor is brought from London, because the local doctor started leeches to cure her. Both Darcy and Elizabeth are appalled at this ancient practice. Getting better, but weak and coughing, the doctor suggests that she is taken to Brighton . Lizzy and Maria are to accompany her, and Lady Catherine has given them her summer house, Waverley, to stay in while they're there. Darcy convinces Collins to go for a short while to see that he wife is settled, but his real reason for this is so that her can stay also. He cannot give up on Elizabeth. The military is here in Brighton including the company in command of Colonel Forster. Lizzy sees Wickham strolling around with young ladies, one being her sister. She's trying to stay away from him, because she has finally put some of his not so neat characteristics together, and she doesn't like what she sees. On evening while all the company was gathered at Waverley, she and Darcy debate about the lines in one of Wordsworth's poems. She tells him he's wrong, and she will get her book to prove it. When she picks up her book, the letter that she refused to take at Hunsford is stuck in the front. This time she'll read it. She never comes back downstairs, because after reading about why he hates Wickham, she is completely mortified and embarrassed that she defended a useless man and condemned a good man in her blind prejudice. At the Ball given by Colonel and Mrs. Forster, when Elizabeth tells Wickham that the secret betrothal is over, to spite her, he has the colonel announce their engagement. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy are in the audience. When Elizabeth wants to say something, she tells the crowd that there is no betrothal between her and Wickham and that she told him that this evening. Darcy leaves on his horse and doesn't return home to Waverley. When Colonel Fitzwilliam finds him, Darcy is torn between leaving Elizabeth Bennet for good, or going back to win her love. By the time the good colonel has set him straight, Darcy returns to Waverley. Entering Waverley, he hears someone crying on the lounge chair on the terrace. He stands there quietly and discovers that it is Elizabeth. He wants to just hold her and comfort her, but sheen she hears him, she runs past him to her room. When he arises from his short sleep, he realizes only Mr. and Mrs. Collins are downstairs. When he asks if Maria and Elizabeth have gone out, she tells him that Maria is visiting Lydia, and Elizabeth is walking the beach until the coach comes to take her home to Longbourn. Hardly able to speak when Charlotte tells him that she has brought disgrace to him and Waverley, she must leave. He's out the terrace doors to find Elizabeth. When she sees him coming towards her, she tries to avoid him. He tells her she can leave Brighton, but he will never leave her. Seeing that he still loves her and she him, Elizabeth tells him that she'll marry him. Their joy was to last from the time to walk from the beach through the terrace doors. Lydia had been thrown out of Webster House by the Forsters. Lydia had spent the night with Wickham in her bed chamber. When Elizabeth talks to her, this was not the first time Lydia had allowed him lover's duties, and Elizabeth was sure Lydia was pregnant. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy go to Colonel Forster the next morning. Forster doesn't care what happens to Wickham, because he wants him gone. He rightly expects his wife allowed the dalliance besides favoring Wickham herself. The first talk with Wickham didn't convince him to marry Lydia, but Darcy alone faced him the next day, and Wickham decided with a little help from Darcy, monetary and otherwise, that he'd marry Lydia. Five days later, Lydia and Wickham were married, him with a black eye and red misshapened nose. Returning to Longbourn, Elizabeth got to work on her wedding. Darcy wanted it sooner than later. When Bingley returns, he wasted no time proposing to Jane. A double wedding is suggested and agreed upon, but Darcy told her, "Each day he waits takes a little life out of him and by their wedding day he'll be on his death bed!" The Darcys head straight to Pemberley. The first night they stay at Greenfield Hall in Northamptonshire owed by his cousin, James Fitzwilliam. After cleaning up and dressing for dinner, Darcy notices much of Lizzy's earlier happiness and high spirits are gone. When he finally gets her to tell him the problem, she allows him to take the lead on their wedding night. Seven months into their marriage, Fitzwilliam summons Darcy to Rosings, Anne has died at twenty-six, and Lady Catherine is in need of her nephew. Four weeks later, Lizzy needs a walk around the park of Pemberley. She heads to the old folly build by Darcy's grandfather for his wife. When she arrives, Wickham is there. He tries to sweet talk her into loving him and to leave Darcy. She reminds him that he is married, and she never loved him. She also reminds him he's not to be on Pemberley's grounds. He pulls the ribbon out that he took when they pledged their secret betrothal. She tells him it was all a mistake and to leave. She hurries off back to the manor house, and Wickham leaves. Wickham's fascination with Elizabeth was his demise. When Lady Catherine passed, she had successfully matched Fitzwilliam with his wife. She left Rosings to Fitzwilliam, and Waverley to Darcy's heir. Many happy summer's were spent at Waverley by all the family. Be sure to count how many times Neptune claimed Lizzy's shoes!
September 1, 2025
Fine for the most part, but not much of an enjoyable read. Elizabeth comes off as such a weak character in this, and it took her too long to finally realize Wickham's nature. I feel like Elizabeth should have realised when he insisted on keeping the engagement secret, but still forced kisses on her. I was also annoyed by Darcy's actions, as he goes through a torment for two days thinking that Elizabeth and Wickham were lovers when they were engaged. The text never says he was virgin or not, but the fact that Elizabeth is mentioned as innocent in wedding night but he wasn't makes me feel he isn't a virgin. So its completely hypocritical of him to be torn of her past, when he himself has probably done worse. It's ok if author writes it as Darcy being jealous, but the amount of angst he goes over this made me lose all respect for this Darcy. Colonel Fitzwilliam had to interfere in order to get Darcy out of misery, and even then its not the realization of hypocrisy that changes him but rather that its his pride that was hurt. He also pretty much gave up on her because of this, even though he knows she loves him and again Colonel Fitzwilliam had to advice him about this too. Such a weak, spiteful Darcy.
The writing is fine, some of the chapters regarding the spring tonic were even great but this characterization of Elizabeth and Darcy made it much less enjoyable for me, even though they were they mostly ok except for few instance. But these few instances made so much impact in losing respect for them
The writing is fine, some of the chapters regarding the spring tonic were even great but this characterization of Elizabeth and Darcy made it much less enjoyable for me, even though they were they mostly ok except for few instance. But these few instances made so much impact in losing respect for them
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2020
Reviewed at: http://austendiaries.blogspot.com/
Title and Author: The Secret Betrothal by Jan Hahn
Type: Pride and Prejudice Alternate Path
Perspective: Elizabeth
Romance Level: Third Person, mostly focused on Elizabeth and Darcy.
Recommended: Yes, 3 stars
Summary: What if Elizabeth was engaged to another from her earliest acquaintance with Darcy? (This almost kept me from reading the book--but I have read others by the author and liked them.) When Darcy proposes at Hunsford, he is devastated when she declines, then tells him she is promised to another man. Outside events keep them both at Hunsford/Rosings for an extended period of time and the couple gets to know one another. When Elizabeth gets to know Darcy more, she doubts everything she knew.
Pros:
* Although I found the betrothal unlikely, I liked the events that kept Darcy and Elizabeth at Hunsford and Rosings for a much longer time. They slowly know each other better.
* The letter written to Elizabeth is a key part of the original plot and we don't know what would have happened had she not read it. I like this plot point.
* It was fun to see some of the happily ever after here!
Cons:
* I squirm at the idea of Elizabeth engaged to Wickham. Elizabeth is far to intelligent to be taken in like this!
* Wickham is a force to be reckoned with. In the original, it was to get ahead and pay his debts. His motives are more complicated here and I am not sure it works for me.
Title and Author: The Secret Betrothal by Jan Hahn
Type: Pride and Prejudice Alternate Path
Perspective: Elizabeth
Romance Level: Third Person, mostly focused on Elizabeth and Darcy.
Recommended: Yes, 3 stars
Summary: What if Elizabeth was engaged to another from her earliest acquaintance with Darcy? (This almost kept me from reading the book--but I have read others by the author and liked them.) When Darcy proposes at Hunsford, he is devastated when she declines, then tells him she is promised to another man. Outside events keep them both at Hunsford/Rosings for an extended period of time and the couple gets to know one another. When Elizabeth gets to know Darcy more, she doubts everything she knew.
Pros:
* Although I found the betrothal unlikely, I liked the events that kept Darcy and Elizabeth at Hunsford and Rosings for a much longer time. They slowly know each other better.
* The letter written to Elizabeth is a key part of the original plot and we don't know what would have happened had she not read it. I like this plot point.
* It was fun to see some of the happily ever after here!
Cons:
* I squirm at the idea of Elizabeth engaged to Wickham. Elizabeth is far to intelligent to be taken in like this!
* Wickham is a force to be reckoned with. In the original, it was to get ahead and pay his debts. His motives are more complicated here and I am not sure it works for me.
December 31, 2017
This story starts with focus on the relationship between Elizabeth and Wickham. He talks her into becoming engaged, only to then tell her it needs to be a secret engagement. She reluctantly agrees... but Wickham behaviour soon starts to change and she starts to think she has made a mistake. What follows is a visit to Kent, extended stay in Brighton, scandal, mischief, lies and everything else you want in a book to make an exciting adventure.
The only real criticism I have of this book is the middle bit felt overly long. I found it a little difficult at times to stay focussed. However, I really enjoyed the story.
The only real criticism I have of this book is the middle bit felt overly long. I found it a little difficult at times to stay focussed. However, I really enjoyed the story.
September 8, 2018
A good, clean romantic read.
This is the first Jan Hahn book I have read and it was an enjoyable experience on the whole. I agree with other reviewers that it does seem unnecessarily long and drawn out at times especially in the middle.
That said, I thought it was well written in good English, good grammar and importantly for me few Americanisms (though there was an odd one here and there!)
It was romantic without any overt sexual encounters and I liked that the story continued on after D and E got married.
All in all, well worth a read, I recommend it.
This is the first Jan Hahn book I have read and it was an enjoyable experience on the whole. I agree with other reviewers that it does seem unnecessarily long and drawn out at times especially in the middle.
That said, I thought it was well written in good English, good grammar and importantly for me few Americanisms (though there was an odd one here and there!)
It was romantic without any overt sexual encounters and I liked that the story continued on after D and E got married.
All in all, well worth a read, I recommend it.
June 22, 2021
Jan Hahn is a talented writer, but this book was underwhelming.
The beginning of the book dragged. It felt like the author was just checking off the plot points until we got to Rosings. Once the story strongly veered from canon with Charlotte's illness, the story became more interesting but that development does not come until a quarter of the way into the novel. That first 25% was a slog.
The remainder of the book is still plagued by bouts of monotony. Whenever Darcy and Lizzy share a scene, the writing sizzles but the scenes connecting these moments can feel uninspired and formulaic. The side characters feel like plot-driven copies of the originals. Their actions and personalities are designed to serve the plot rather than the characters themselves. Wickham is markedly unlikable--noticeably lacking his trademark charm that initially attracts Elizabeth to him--and Lydia is exceptionally stupid, falling for Wickham despite his overtly villainous actions.
The book has some beautiful moments. The entire sequence at Rosings where Darcy discovers Lizzy on the stairs is tender and dreamy, and the scene where Darcy follows Elizabeth to the beach is perfection. But the rest of the book fails to live up to the wonder of these moments.
The beginning of the book dragged. It felt like the author was just checking off the plot points until we got to Rosings. Once the story strongly veered from canon with Charlotte's illness, the story became more interesting but that development does not come until a quarter of the way into the novel. That first 25% was a slog.
The remainder of the book is still plagued by bouts of monotony. Whenever Darcy and Lizzy share a scene, the writing sizzles but the scenes connecting these moments can feel uninspired and formulaic. The side characters feel like plot-driven copies of the originals. Their actions and personalities are designed to serve the plot rather than the characters themselves. Wickham is markedly unlikable--noticeably lacking his trademark charm that initially attracts Elizabeth to him--and Lydia is exceptionally stupid, falling for Wickham despite his overtly villainous actions.
The book has some beautiful moments. The entire sequence at Rosings where Darcy discovers Lizzy on the stairs is tender and dreamy, and the scene where Darcy follows Elizabeth to the beach is perfection. But the rest of the book fails to live up to the wonder of these moments.
January 22, 2023
Enjoyable
Very entertaining variation with well developed storyline. Elizabeth's stubborn personality rendered her stupid to involve herself with the villain and Darcy's pride as usual had him struggling through his relationship with Elizabeth. The minor characters played their parts well, only leaving the aunt Augusta's character without a conclusion/ending. Very entertaining read. Enjoy.
Very entertaining variation with well developed storyline. Elizabeth's stubborn personality rendered her stupid to involve herself with the villain and Darcy's pride as usual had him struggling through his relationship with Elizabeth. The minor characters played their parts well, only leaving the aunt Augusta's character without a conclusion/ending. Very entertaining read. Enjoy.
May 25, 2018
Interesting story
Some new story line but this is mostly the same people doing the same actions. Not too believable the secret carried by Elizabeth and Wickham and not too believable his ending. Otherwise i enjoyed the read.
Some new story line but this is mostly the same people doing the same actions. Not too believable the secret carried by Elizabeth and Wickham and not too believable his ending. Otherwise i enjoyed the read.
February 16, 2019
Hard to believe
As the book progressed the storyline went from mediocre to ridiculous. Even with great change from canon of Elizabeth's secret engagement, many of the events from canon still take place. Very disappointed as I’ve enjoyed other books by the author.
As the book progressed the storyline went from mediocre to ridiculous. Even with great change from canon of Elizabeth's secret engagement, many of the events from canon still take place. Very disappointed as I’ve enjoyed other books by the author.
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