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A Fortuitous Wager: A Pride and Prejudice Vagary
“Happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of chance.”—Pride and Prejudice, Chapter VI
After another disappointing Season fending off matchmaking mamas and grasping debutantes, Fitzwilliam Darcy has given up hope of finding a wife. His business partner, Edward Gardiner, suggests a sojourn into Hertfordshire to escape the machinations of Town—and meddlesome aunts who take every opportunity to help him on the marriage mart.
Although asserting his nieces would never be a match for Darcy, Gardiner suggests Jane and Elizabeth Bennet might make pleasant acquaintances while in the neighborhood. Privately, Darcy’s aunt, declares this sly approach to matchmaking as “inventive,” but wagers with Gardiner that nothing will come of it.
When Darcy meets Gardiner’s nieces, it comes as a terrific shock to find them poised, intelligent, and beautiful. Elizabeth Bennet intrigues Darcy like no other. With only his heart as a guide and keenly aware that his future is at stake, Darcy must decide if Elizabeth is a woman worthy or simply another husband-seeking miss.
Will Gardiner win the wager by manipulating a love match for his beloved niece? Or will Darcy’s doubtful aunt take the prize?
After another disappointing Season fending off matchmaking mamas and grasping debutantes, Fitzwilliam Darcy has given up hope of finding a wife. His business partner, Edward Gardiner, suggests a sojourn into Hertfordshire to escape the machinations of Town—and meddlesome aunts who take every opportunity to help him on the marriage mart.
Although asserting his nieces would never be a match for Darcy, Gardiner suggests Jane and Elizabeth Bennet might make pleasant acquaintances while in the neighborhood. Privately, Darcy’s aunt, declares this sly approach to matchmaking as “inventive,” but wagers with Gardiner that nothing will come of it.
When Darcy meets Gardiner’s nieces, it comes as a terrific shock to find them poised, intelligent, and beautiful. Elizabeth Bennet intrigues Darcy like no other. With only his heart as a guide and keenly aware that his future is at stake, Darcy must decide if Elizabeth is a woman worthy or simply another husband-seeking miss.
Will Gardiner win the wager by manipulating a love match for his beloved niece? Or will Darcy’s doubtful aunt take the prize?
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 31, 2024
122 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
June 1, 2024
A cute read, kind of 1950ish
A fun premise with the wager and psych-out manipulation by uncle Gardiner and Lady Matlock.
Although it takes place in regency era, there is something retro about some of the scenes and interactions.
Lots of heavy breathing in ears and onto cheeks. Definite out of character behavior from all our damsels, the men weren't exactly cads, but they weren't exactly good either. Well, aside from Bingley who comes across as the nicest, most sincerest of the bunch.
A cute read.
A fun premise with the wager and psych-out manipulation by uncle Gardiner and Lady Matlock.
Although it takes place in regency era, there is something retro about some of the scenes and interactions.
Lots of heavy breathing in ears and onto cheeks. Definite out of character behavior from all our damsels, the men weren't exactly cads, but they weren't exactly good either. Well, aside from Bingley who comes across as the nicest, most sincerest of the bunch.
A cute read.
June 28, 2024
This story did not hold my interest although I did finish it. You can see by the number of days it took me to read it that it dragged for me.
The idea of a wager (as to the suitability of his nieces for her nephew and his friend, Bingley,) between Mr. Gardiner and Lady Matlock was new and creative.
The story has other romances than just that one. The colonel enjoys one in this story. Wickham's story has a different twist and we do hear from Anne de Bourgh and her mother. Collins' part is also a surprise.
There were many times when sentences needed editing and I had to reread paragraphs to figure out what, who and so forth.
The idea of a wager (as to the suitability of his nieces for her nephew and his friend, Bingley,) between Mr. Gardiner and Lady Matlock was new and creative.
The story has other romances than just that one. The colonel enjoys one in this story. Wickham's story has a different twist and we do hear from Anne de Bourgh and her mother. Collins' part is also a surprise.
There were many times when sentences needed editing and I had to reread paragraphs to figure out what, who and so forth.
June 9, 2024
Fun romp!
Interesting and entertaining variation. The unique storyline with a wager that didn't involve the main characters was I interesting. Elizabeth and Darcy's relationship seemed to be fraught with her acting rather dense at times by continuously repeating to him than he wasn't interested in her. I think a less confusing approach to writing those scenes would help. She could repeat those things to herself with inner dialogue instead of saying them Darcy as if he doesn't know his own mind. I think Jane and Bingley were running a close second with the same problem, just less obvious. Richard was supposedly a decorated hero, but this was only implied through comments, as if everyone, including the reader knew in the author's thoughts regarding the backstory.
I did enjoy reading this variation as it was well thought through and no one was left dangling. Enjoy!
With what I assume is an effort to write in the 'period defined way' some of the wording or lack thereof made it difficult to understand when I think a few more words would have helped some conversations that were had as if we knew more of the characters thoughts; inner dialogue would have been helpful so we could keep up with the dialogue.
Interesting and entertaining variation. The unique storyline with a wager that didn't involve the main characters was I interesting. Elizabeth and Darcy's relationship seemed to be fraught with her acting rather dense at times by continuously repeating to him than he wasn't interested in her. I think a less confusing approach to writing those scenes would help. She could repeat those things to herself with inner dialogue instead of saying them Darcy as if he doesn't know his own mind. I think Jane and Bingley were running a close second with the same problem, just less obvious. Richard was supposedly a decorated hero, but this was only implied through comments, as if everyone, including the reader knew in the author's thoughts regarding the backstory.
I did enjoy reading this variation as it was well thought through and no one was left dangling. Enjoy!
With what I assume is an effort to write in the 'period defined way' some of the wording or lack thereof made it difficult to understand when I think a few more words would have helped some conversations that were had as if we knew more of the characters thoughts; inner dialogue would have been helpful so we could keep up with the dialogue.
June 17, 2024
I need more!
I loved all the pairings in this book. I could have had more scenes with the Colonel and his beloved and same with ODC. Oh man, it was such a sweet happy book. So good a read after many angst filled stories. Barely a little woe before our dear couples found their HEA. Spoiler, I know. But worth it. I am gonna add this as one of my favorite variations. Cheers to the author for her sweet storytelling.
I loved all the pairings in this book. I could have had more scenes with the Colonel and his beloved and same with ODC. Oh man, it was such a sweet happy book. So good a read after many angst filled stories. Barely a little woe before our dear couples found their HEA. Spoiler, I know. But worth it. I am gonna add this as one of my favorite variations. Cheers to the author for her sweet storytelling.
June 17, 2024
I love the refreshing beginning of this book, as it begins with the wager between Mr Gardiner and Lady Matlock! Fun! But this is not the only wager to be had! Why I took away one star was the often confusing moments of who was speaking, and because, for me, Elizabeth was making me nuts by telling Darcy they could only be friends. That said, I enjoyed the book very much! Loved the Gardiners and Ana.
June 18, 2024
Matchmaking relations
There are flashes of brilliance in this Pride and Prejudice variation, but unfortunately, there were also glimpses of perplexity. For me, the confusion stemmed from fractured scenes, and sometimes which character was speaking was unclear. Stories that glorify Charlotte Lucas as a role model for all women also don't appeal to me. The plots involving Colonel Fitzwilliam and ODC received equal attention.
I did enjoy the dialogue between the various matches, as well as the machinations and wagers concocted among the characters. I would recommend this as an enjoyable and low angst tale.
There are flashes of brilliance in this Pride and Prejudice variation, but unfortunately, there were also glimpses of perplexity. For me, the confusion stemmed from fractured scenes, and sometimes which character was speaking was unclear. Stories that glorify Charlotte Lucas as a role model for all women also don't appeal to me. The plots involving Colonel Fitzwilliam and ODC received equal attention.
I did enjoy the dialogue between the various matches, as well as the machinations and wagers concocted among the characters. I would recommend this as an enjoyable and low angst tale.
June 13, 2024
Loved It
This story is what I have been waiting for. The trouble makers are resolved and those who are not doing their job are openly rebuked. I really liked Mary in the story. Looking forward to her next one.
This story is what I have been waiting for. The trouble makers are resolved and those who are not doing their job are openly rebuked. I really liked Mary in the story. Looking forward to her next one.
June 9, 2024
Can a Wager be Fortuitous?
Loved this vagary. There are many funny moments to be read. Who is the wager with? What is the wager about? How does it effect the Pride and Prejudice story?
Our dear couple has a happy ending with a much different story from canon. If you ever hoped for changes to the Bennet family, read this novel to find out.
It was read with a couple of cups of tea in a long afternoon.
Loved this vagary. There are many funny moments to be read. Who is the wager with? What is the wager about? How does it effect the Pride and Prejudice story?
Our dear couple has a happy ending with a much different story from canon. If you ever hoped for changes to the Bennet family, read this novel to find out.
It was read with a couple of cups of tea in a long afternoon.
June 3, 2024
Sublimely Wonderful!!
From the very start we see friendship pairings that are unique yet obviously very true and deep. You will LOL often while enjoying new takes on so many friendships and obvious deep sibling bonds. Finally!! A Lydia I want as a sister! I love that almost all personal growth happens without deliberate angry bludgeoning.
This is a keeper and a re-reader!
From the very start we see friendship pairings that are unique yet obviously very true and deep. You will LOL often while enjoying new takes on so many friendships and obvious deep sibling bonds. Finally!! A Lydia I want as a sister! I love that almost all personal growth happens without deliberate angry bludgeoning.
This is a keeper and a re-reader!
June 2, 2024
Another charming book from Kimbelle Pease
Once again, I have thoroughly enjoyed a book by Ms. Pease. The humor, the charm and the story itself are all captivating. There are the love stories, some deceptions that get exposed, a Wickham and a Caroline who are cleverly dealt with and more. If you have enjoyed her other books, you will love this one.
Once again, I have thoroughly enjoyed a book by Ms. Pease. The humor, the charm and the story itself are all captivating. There are the love stories, some deceptions that get exposed, a Wickham and a Caroline who are cleverly dealt with and more. If you have enjoyed her other books, you will love this one.
June 2, 2024
Very nice
Intriguing plot, plenty of romance, good dialogue, and a happy ending! Very cute! Would have given five stars, but ran into many disconcerting editing errors, which for me really interfere with the flow of the story. This may not bother other readers.
Intriguing plot, plenty of romance, good dialogue, and a happy ending! Very cute! Would have given five stars, but ran into many disconcerting editing errors, which for me really interfere with the flow of the story. This may not bother other readers.
May 23, 2025
A fun read. Mr Gardiner and the Countess of Matlock are business partners and friends. They enjoy making interesting wagers. Gardiner also does business with both Bingley and Darcy and they have been friends for years. Gardener bets Lady Matlock that Bingley and Darcy will choose to marry his nieces who are without fortune or connections. Lady Matlock takes that bet knowing that her nephew and Bingley are both sought after, wealthy, young men who would never settle for penniless country girls.
Gardiner sets the hook by referring Bingley to Netherfield and then telling he and Darcy about his two elder nieces and how wonderful they are, but in no uncertain terms not suitable for them to wed. He not only extols their virtues and accomplishments, but then outlines every drawback that makes them unsuitable for Bingley and Darcy. In other words he has tempted the young men with forbidden fruit. Both men are intrigued and travel to Hertfordshire to make friends of their friend’s nieces.
They do become friendly with the young ladies but make sure that they tell them upfront to expect nothing but friendship. Unfortunately all four become enamored but believe nothing can ever come of it. As an aside Colonel Fitzwilliam also joins the group and begins a relationship with Charlotte Lucas on much the same terms, although Charlotte surprises Fitzwilliam with a daring request. What will happen when none can remain as just friends?
Additionally, the three younger Bennet sisters are not what they appear. They have some hard lessons to teach their elder sisters and parents about themselves and the lack of affection and attention that should be their due. This is an especially strong Mary who also gets her HEA. Very nice read.
Gardiner sets the hook by referring Bingley to Netherfield and then telling he and Darcy about his two elder nieces and how wonderful they are, but in no uncertain terms not suitable for them to wed. He not only extols their virtues and accomplishments, but then outlines every drawback that makes them unsuitable for Bingley and Darcy. In other words he has tempted the young men with forbidden fruit. Both men are intrigued and travel to Hertfordshire to make friends of their friend’s nieces.
They do become friendly with the young ladies but make sure that they tell them upfront to expect nothing but friendship. Unfortunately all four become enamored but believe nothing can ever come of it. As an aside Colonel Fitzwilliam also joins the group and begins a relationship with Charlotte Lucas on much the same terms, although Charlotte surprises Fitzwilliam with a daring request. What will happen when none can remain as just friends?
Additionally, the three younger Bennet sisters are not what they appear. They have some hard lessons to teach their elder sisters and parents about themselves and the lack of affection and attention that should be their due. This is an especially strong Mary who also gets her HEA. Very nice read.
December 30, 2024
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. After another disappointing Season fending off matchmaking mamas and grasping debutantes, Fitzwilliam Darcy has given up hope of finding a wife. His business partner, Edward Gardiner, suggests a sojourn into Hertfordshire to escape the machinations of Town, and meddlesome aunts who take every opportunity to help him on the marriage mart. Although asserting his nieces would never be a match for Darcy, Gardiner suggests Jane and Elizabeth Bennet might make pleasant acquaintances while in the neighborhood. Privately, Darcy’s aunt, declares this sly approach to matchmaking as “inventive,” but wagers with Gardiner that nothing will come of it. When Darcy meets Gardiner’s nieces, it comes as a terrific shock to find them poised, intelligent, and beautiful, for Elizabeth Bennet intrigues Darcy like no other. With only his heart as a guide and keenly aware that his future is at stake, Darcy must decide if Elizabeth is a woman worthy or simply another husband-seeking miss. Will Gardiner win the wager by manipulating a love match for his beloved niece or will Darcy’s doubtful aunt take the prize? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. After another disappointing Season fending off matchmaking mamas and grasping debutantes, Fitzwilliam Darcy has given up hope of finding a wife. His business partner, Edward Gardiner, suggests a sojourn into Hertfordshire to escape the machinations of Town, and meddlesome aunts who take every opportunity to help him on the marriage mart. Although asserting his nieces would never be a match for Darcy, Gardiner suggests Jane and Elizabeth Bennet might make pleasant acquaintances while in the neighborhood. Privately, Darcy’s aunt, declares this sly approach to matchmaking as “inventive,” but wagers with Gardiner that nothing will come of it. When Darcy meets Gardiner’s nieces, it comes as a terrific shock to find them poised, intelligent, and beautiful, for Elizabeth Bennet intrigues Darcy like no other. With only his heart as a guide and keenly aware that his future is at stake, Darcy must decide if Elizabeth is a woman worthy or simply another husband-seeking miss. Will Gardiner win the wager by manipulating a love match for his beloved niece or will Darcy’s doubtful aunt take the prize? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
January 12, 2025
Layers upon layers like an onion
This variation has so many layers in it. It has romance and humor; angst and easily dispatched villains of Canon; progression of characters and chances of redemption; unexpected characterization of secondary players that are flattering and surprisingly fresh; and positive qualities for not only the lead lovers but also for everyone connected to them.
This reader’s only complaint is the lack of focus on the beloved couple. Too many love affairs take away the allure of the romance between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. Nevertheless, the depiction of the love between the paired couples and their exchanges are swoon-worthy.
This variation has so many layers in it. It has romance and humor; angst and easily dispatched villains of Canon; progression of characters and chances of redemption; unexpected characterization of secondary players that are flattering and surprisingly fresh; and positive qualities for not only the lead lovers but also for everyone connected to them.
This reader’s only complaint is the lack of focus on the beloved couple. Too many love affairs take away the allure of the romance between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. Nevertheless, the depiction of the love between the paired couples and their exchanges are swoon-worthy.
June 22, 2024
When is meddling not actually meddling? Their family knows them better than they know themselves.
Is it true that when you tell a young man he can't have something or someone, he'll want her even more? This story gives us a new perspective of the true nature of all the ladies of the Bennets, Bingleys , Lucas, Fitzwilliam, and Gardiner ladies. I appreciated their introspection and honesty and was quite surprised by their boldness. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this wonderful story.
Is it true that when you tell a young man he can't have something or someone, he'll want her even more? This story gives us a new perspective of the true nature of all the ladies of the Bennets, Bingleys , Lucas, Fitzwilliam, and Gardiner ladies. I appreciated their introspection and honesty and was quite surprised by their boldness. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this wonderful story.
July 7, 2024
A most engaging story
An original vagary that is true to the canonical characters, though it loses a little zest because it is very low angst. Strong female characters, less satirically drawn than in the canon, are paired with intelligent men who appreciate that they are more than pretty faces. I would recommend a thorough proof reading because some words choices are incorrect. Some look like @##$$ autocorrect, but they disrupt the reading experience. Otherwise, I was delighted to suspend disbelief and spend time with this delightful company.
An original vagary that is true to the canonical characters, though it loses a little zest because it is very low angst. Strong female characters, less satirically drawn than in the canon, are paired with intelligent men who appreciate that they are more than pretty faces. I would recommend a thorough proof reading because some words choices are incorrect. Some look like @##$$ autocorrect, but they disrupt the reading experience. Otherwise, I was delighted to suspend disbelief and spend time with this delightful company.
June 21, 2024
It's rare that I purchase a KU book.
This book is one of those rarities. I laughed and smiled and felt giddy; I also cried and was disappointed and had my heart broken in more than one way. And then I smiled and laughed again. This author gave a beautiful reimagining of such a great story and I'm now happily off to purchase this one as it will be one I reread several times over.
This book is one of those rarities. I laughed and smiled and felt giddy; I also cried and was disappointed and had my heart broken in more than one way. And then I smiled and laughed again. This author gave a beautiful reimagining of such a great story and I'm now happily off to purchase this one as it will be one I reread several times over.
June 18, 2024
Drags
This was well written & started off great, but the fraught conversations between Darcy & Lizzy about their friendship became ridiculous about halfway through & I ultimately ended up skimming the last 40%.
This was well written & started off great, but the fraught conversations between Darcy & Lizzy about their friendship became ridiculous about halfway through & I ultimately ended up skimming the last 40%.
July 11, 2024
Very different
It took me a few chapters to start to like this.
The characters are different but that is because of the honesty shared.
I won't give away the plot but it is a goodie.
It took me a few chapters to start to like this.
The characters are different but that is because of the honesty shared.
I won't give away the plot but it is a goodie.
October 2, 2024
Brilliant
What an absolutely delicious book. If you like canon, this won't do. But I loved it! So easy to read, funny, witty and quite entertaining. Definitely worth your time, although I finished it in no time at all!
5 stars and a must read.
What an absolutely delicious book. If you like canon, this won't do. But I loved it! So easy to read, funny, witty and quite entertaining. Definitely worth your time, although I finished it in no time at all!
5 stars and a must read.
November 20, 2024
One of the best P&P variations ever!
Absolutely loved this book! Great dialogue and character development. Really enjoyed how the lesser characters changed and grew in this novel. HEA for all!
Absolutely loved this book! Great dialogue and character development. Really enjoyed how the lesser characters changed and grew in this novel. HEA for all!
June 12, 2024
Cute!
Love a Pride and Prejudice variation that is written out of the box! Low angst story. Something I know Ill enjoy reading again.
Love a Pride and Prejudice variation that is written out of the box! Low angst story. Something I know Ill enjoy reading again.
July 3, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up.
July 28, 2024
Loved seeing all 3…yes 3 couples…spending much more time getting to know each other and going along for the ride as the reader!
July 31, 2024
A Definitely Different P&P variation
I loved the much stronger characters in this variation. The storyline moves along well too. I found it worthy of a reread.
I loved the much stronger characters in this variation. The storyline moves along well too. I found it worthy of a reread.
September 8, 2024
This book made me smile
There were a couple of places where I was unsure, what was what, but this book surely made me smile.
There were a couple of places where I was unsure, what was what, but this book surely made me smile.
October 28, 2025
FABULOUS
A very unique and intriguing take. It makes you laugh and all those who would put a damper on the laughter are dealt swiftly and effectively.
A very unique and intriguing take. It makes you laugh and all those who would put a damper on the laughter are dealt swiftly and effectively.
June 10, 2024
DNF at 57%
The plot sounded fun- I don’t think I’ve ever seen a variation where Mr. Gardiner plays matchmaker. Unfortunately it just never caught my interest. I could only read a few pages at a time before setting it down. The characters all seemed to behave pretty out of character. Lizzy overhears that her younger sisters hate her and Jane and doesn’t do anything to improve their relationship. Darcy tells Elizabeth that he has no intentions towards her, but then constantly behaves in a manner that would definitely raise everyone’s expectations. Charlotte propositions Colonel Fitzwilliam. That was too much for me and I gave up after that.
There are also several instances where the wrong word is used (maybe due to use of talk to text software?) A canter is a horse’s second fastest gait. A cantor leads liturgical singing at church. There also appeared to be many scenes where a sentence or three were cut and the scene no longer made sense. Honestly I’m surprised at all of the wonderful reviews.
The plot sounded fun- I don’t think I’ve ever seen a variation where Mr. Gardiner plays matchmaker. Unfortunately it just never caught my interest. I could only read a few pages at a time before setting it down. The characters all seemed to behave pretty out of character. Lizzy overhears that her younger sisters hate her and Jane and doesn’t do anything to improve their relationship. Darcy tells Elizabeth that he has no intentions towards her, but then constantly behaves in a manner that would definitely raise everyone’s expectations. Charlotte propositions Colonel Fitzwilliam. That was too much for me and I gave up after that.
There are also several instances where the wrong word is used (maybe due to use of talk to text software?) A canter is a horse’s second fastest gait. A cantor leads liturgical singing at church. There also appeared to be many scenes where a sentence or three were cut and the scene no longer made sense. Honestly I’m surprised at all of the wonderful reviews.
March 19, 2025
Wagers on love lives
3 1/2 rounded up
This was a fun romp of a story. This has Bingley and Darcy along with Lady Matlock and others already in business with Mr. Gardiner. It seems that Lady Matlock and Mr. Gardiner regularly have wagers but this time they are betting on the love life outcome of Darcy and Bingley’s visit to Netherfield. Because there’s already an existing relationship with the uncle of the Bennet family and the two gentlemen have been pre-warned about the behavior and personalities of those in the community Darcy avoids insulting Elizabeth. The friendships that develop were enjoyable to see. There were a few things in the story that could have been tightened up but it still worked. I got the audiobook to go with the ebook and as usual Benjamin Fife helped elevate the storytelling.
3 1/2 rounded up
This was a fun romp of a story. This has Bingley and Darcy along with Lady Matlock and others already in business with Mr. Gardiner. It seems that Lady Matlock and Mr. Gardiner regularly have wagers but this time they are betting on the love life outcome of Darcy and Bingley’s visit to Netherfield. Because there’s already an existing relationship with the uncle of the Bennet family and the two gentlemen have been pre-warned about the behavior and personalities of those in the community Darcy avoids insulting Elizabeth. The friendships that develop were enjoyable to see. There were a few things in the story that could have been tightened up but it still worked. I got the audiobook to go with the ebook and as usual Benjamin Fife helped elevate the storytelling.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews