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Thwarted
Mr. Darcy is unmarriageable. Every time he shows any interest in a lady, be it casual or serious, the lady disappears or has disaster befall her. Soon, society spreads gossip that he is cursed, and mamas and daughters alike shun his company.
Some unknown nemesis keeps the rumors alive, and soon, he suspects he will never find happiness until he discovers who wants him ruined.
In Meryton, a humbled Mr. Darcy finds himself drawn to a local beauty. Ever cautious that the villain behind his misfortune is watching, he takes great pains to keep his courtship a secret. He disguises his intentions by showing equal attention to all the ladies and being amiable to everyone. When an old enemy arrives in Meryton unexpectedly, Darcy is instantly wary and works even harder to keep his relationship with Elizabeth from being widely known. Will he ever be free to marry and love her openly, or is his love doomed to be thwarted?
Thwarted can be considered far-fetched, but it was fun to write, nonetheless.
Some unknown nemesis keeps the rumors alive, and soon, he suspects he will never find happiness until he discovers who wants him ruined.
In Meryton, a humbled Mr. Darcy finds himself drawn to a local beauty. Ever cautious that the villain behind his misfortune is watching, he takes great pains to keep his courtship a secret. He disguises his intentions by showing equal attention to all the ladies and being amiable to everyone. When an old enemy arrives in Meryton unexpectedly, Darcy is instantly wary and works even harder to keep his relationship with Elizabeth from being widely known. Will he ever be free to marry and love her openly, or is his love doomed to be thwarted?
Thwarted can be considered far-fetched, but it was fun to write, nonetheless.
260 pages, Paperback
Published August 7, 2024
270 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
May 2, 2025
Change one aspect from Canon and you have an entirely different story.
The opening chapters set the stage of strings being pulled to ruin Darcy's life. When he finally seeks refuge at Netherfield, he is practically a leper, as far as Society is concerned. Not even Caroline Bingley wants him.
Due to Darcy's troubles, he decides to make a break from the Society that abandoned him. This brings him to Meryton, with a mind open to the idea of a country gentlewoman. Duty was no longer a factor; he would seek his happiness!
The courtship is darling, and aside from Mr Bennet, no one knows. Jangley join them, to court privately themselves.
I loved not having Darcy's usual conflict of-I like her, but she is beneath me...
(I also liked not reading obsessive thoughts on how much he physically 'needed' Elizabeth.)
There was too much story to need that kind of filler.
Without giving more away, I will say I was surprised at the identity of the nepharious shadow in the background and 2 characters get their just desserts, in a creative way!
The writing sets a great pace. After the initial duel pov in the beginning, which offered a bit of repetition, things moved along smoothly.
I enjoyed this book very much and highly recommend it.
The opening chapters set the stage of strings being pulled to ruin Darcy's life. When he finally seeks refuge at Netherfield, he is practically a leper, as far as Society is concerned. Not even Caroline Bingley wants him.
Due to Darcy's troubles, he decides to make a break from the Society that abandoned him. This brings him to Meryton, with a mind open to the idea of a country gentlewoman. Duty was no longer a factor; he would seek his happiness!
The courtship is darling, and aside from Mr Bennet, no one knows. Jangley join them, to court privately themselves.
I loved not having Darcy's usual conflict of-I like her, but she is beneath me...
(I also liked not reading obsessive thoughts on how much he physically 'needed' Elizabeth.)
There was too much story to need that kind of filler.
Without giving more away, I will say I was surprised at the identity of the nepharious shadow in the background and 2 characters get their just desserts, in a creative way!
The writing sets a great pace. After the initial duel pov in the beginning, which offered a bit of repetition, things moved along smoothly.
I enjoyed this book very much and highly recommend it.
July 15, 2025
Yes, this was a unique premise. Hard to believe that with Darcy's looks, wealth, estate and connections, a rumor sets society against him. Yes, as he begins to court one young lady after another, gossip paints him as being the cause of ruin or misfortune which has befallen all previous interests in finding a wife.
His thoughts that staying away from society will allow the gossip to die soon prove that someone is making sure those accusations don't fade away. When he does come to Netherfield with Bingley and develops an interest in Elizabeth, he (and she) determine that all between them must be done in secret. And some one soon assumes he is interested in Caroline...imagine that.
As others have mentioned you may be surprised by just who is behind keeping the rumors alive! I was. I enjoyed this story.
His thoughts that staying away from society will allow the gossip to die soon prove that someone is making sure those accusations don't fade away. When he does come to Netherfield with Bingley and develops an interest in Elizabeth, he (and she) determine that all between them must be done in secret. And some one soon assumes he is interested in Caroline...imagine that.
As others have mentioned you may be surprised by just who is behind keeping the rumors alive! I was. I enjoyed this story.
May 4, 2025
Full disclosure: Since I had a hand in editing this book, I won’t give it a full review. Conflict of interest and all that. Just let me say I thought it was excellent even before I touched it. I’m sure everyone will love it too. Just picked up my copy of the ebook and look forward to owning the paperback! 🥰
Audiobook - May 3-4, 2025
Thoroughly thrilled to see Harry Frost’s bring MJ Stratton’s first audiobook to life with his always-outstanding performance. Well done, Harry! I hope this will just be the first of this talented author’s books become available on audio. This one brings a very sweet declaration of love leading to a secret courtship and engagement, and a clever mystery.
Audiobook - May 3-4, 2025
Thoroughly thrilled to see Harry Frost’s bring MJ Stratton’s first audiobook to life with his always-outstanding performance. Well done, Harry! I hope this will just be the first of this talented author’s books become available on audio. This one brings a very sweet declaration of love leading to a secret courtship and engagement, and a clever mystery.
September 6, 2024
Mr. Darcy was unmarriageable.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mature due to adult themes discussed and described.
>>Angst Level: stressful as ODB navigated shark-infested waters
>>Source: borrowed from KU 8-28-24: I volunteered to leave a review.
“The route to success often has a pariah phase along the way.” –Steven Magee
Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy had always been adept at navigating the shark-infested waters of the marriage-mart of the ton. Every event he attended involved a horde of matchmaking mamas and their vapid daughters approaching him at every turn. Only this time, there were no sharks or matchmaking mamas.
“Not being liked was so much worse than being invisible.” –Rebecca Donovan, Reason to Breathe
Something had happened and things were not making sense to our dear boy. His family and friends [those still speaking to him] related rumors, gossip, and outright lies circulating throughout the ton regarding him. Suddenly, Darcy had become a social pariah and no one wanted to be associated with him.
“I’ve felt as if I didn’t exist, as if I were invisible, miles away from the world, miles away. You can’t imagine how much alone I’ve been all my life.” –Iris Murdoch, The Sea, the Sea
Rumors were rampant regarding his honor as a gentleman. He was described as a scoundrel leaving a wake of tarnished women behind him. Every woman he attempted to court suddenly had an accident, disappeared under strange circumstances, left society to visit relatives, or quickly married someone in a distant county. Everyone assumed the worst of him.
No decent family would associate with him or introduce their daughters. Even his financial standing fell into question. The local shops suddenly demanded payment with each purchase. For the first time in his life, Darcy began receiving the cut-direct from several people he considered friends and even those socially beneath him. What was happening? Who was the villain[s] behind this attack on his honor and good name? And what woman would now align herself with such a man? The answers were there along with many surprises as the reader watched love blossom in the shadow of scandal.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mature due to adult themes discussed and described.
>>Angst Level: stressful as ODB navigated shark-infested waters
>>Source: borrowed from KU 8-28-24: I volunteered to leave a review.
“The route to success often has a pariah phase along the way.” –Steven Magee
Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy had always been adept at navigating the shark-infested waters of the marriage-mart of the ton. Every event he attended involved a horde of matchmaking mamas and their vapid daughters approaching him at every turn. Only this time, there were no sharks or matchmaking mamas.
“Not being liked was so much worse than being invisible.” –Rebecca Donovan, Reason to Breathe
Something had happened and things were not making sense to our dear boy. His family and friends [those still speaking to him] related rumors, gossip, and outright lies circulating throughout the ton regarding him. Suddenly, Darcy had become a social pariah and no one wanted to be associated with him.
“I’ve felt as if I didn’t exist, as if I were invisible, miles away from the world, miles away. You can’t imagine how much alone I’ve been all my life.” –Iris Murdoch, The Sea, the Sea
Rumors were rampant regarding his honor as a gentleman. He was described as a scoundrel leaving a wake of tarnished women behind him. Every woman he attempted to court suddenly had an accident, disappeared under strange circumstances, left society to visit relatives, or quickly married someone in a distant county. Everyone assumed the worst of him.
No decent family would associate with him or introduce their daughters. Even his financial standing fell into question. The local shops suddenly demanded payment with each purchase. For the first time in his life, Darcy began receiving the cut-direct from several people he considered friends and even those socially beneath him. What was happening? Who was the villain[s] behind this attack on his honor and good name? And what woman would now align herself with such a man? The answers were there along with many surprises as the reader watched love blossom in the shadow of scandal.
August 6, 2024
It was a wonderful pleasure to read this story. Of the many hundreds of JAFF stories that I've read, I have not come across this unique plot. I found that I kept saying to myself, Just one more chapter, and I'll go to sleep... I really enjoyed the misadventures the author created for Darcy in his quest to find a wife, as well as the changes in his thinking that made him evolve into a better man. I liked how Elizabeth Bennet perfectly answered those amendments. Ms Stratton's suppositions about how other characters would react to Darcy's lowered position in society rang true to me, and I particularly thought that Caroline Bingley's behaviour was very amusing when contrasted with her canon pursuit of Darcy. I recommend this low-angst page-turner.
I received a free draft copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review because I enjoyed reading it. I'll be buying the published e-book.
I received a free draft copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review because I enjoyed reading it. I'll be buying the published e-book.
August 14, 2024
Charming variation
This delightful tale starts with an unexpected twist on the canon story, and all that follows flows naturally from that difference. Quite original and totally enchanting!
This delightful tale starts with an unexpected twist on the canon story, and all that follows flows naturally from that difference. Quite original and totally enchanting!
August 24, 2024
The author has redeemed herself.
October 13, 2024
Wonderful!
I loved this variation and the version of Darcy it portrays. The intrigue and mystery are brilliant and the story is worth more than one reading.
I loved this variation and the version of Darcy it portrays. The intrigue and mystery are brilliant and the story is worth more than one reading.
August 14, 2024
Rumors are nasty
First, when an author says their plot line might be farfetched, but it was great fun to write anyway, I'm there. Because when an author has fun writing, that comes through in the story.
Second, while the level of spitefulness might be a little farfetched, considering the wealth and societal level of the man involved, it was done very plausibly. Because rumors are nasty things that grow and distort with each retelling, and the level of boredom high society dealt with ensured a very fertile ground for this metamorphosis of gossip. I wasn't expecting the main "who" of it, but that's even better! Keep a reader guessing! I love not knowing until I'm told! And the way ODC just happily sorted out their lives was so beautifully done.
Thirdly, the writing was clean and well done. I wasn't thrown out of the story by a bunch of typos or wrong word usage. There weren't any random extra threads that needed to be tied up, and no meandering thoughts that veered off course.
10/10, would recommend.
First, when an author says their plot line might be farfetched, but it was great fun to write anyway, I'm there. Because when an author has fun writing, that comes through in the story.
Second, while the level of spitefulness might be a little farfetched, considering the wealth and societal level of the man involved, it was done very plausibly. Because rumors are nasty things that grow and distort with each retelling, and the level of boredom high society dealt with ensured a very fertile ground for this metamorphosis of gossip. I wasn't expecting the main "who" of it, but that's even better! Keep a reader guessing! I love not knowing until I'm told! And the way ODC just happily sorted out their lives was so beautifully done.
Thirdly, the writing was clean and well done. I wasn't thrown out of the story by a bunch of typos or wrong word usage. There weren't any random extra threads that needed to be tied up, and no meandering thoughts that veered off course.
10/10, would recommend.
August 13, 2024
Truly Wonderful
I absolutely loved this book. The suspense was perfectly planned and executed. I never suspected who the real villainess was. It's also always a treat to see Darcy properly court Elizabeth from the very start. Seeing Caroline Bingley disdain Darcy was howlingly funny.
I absolutely loved this book. The suspense was perfectly planned and executed. I never suspected who the real villainess was. It's also always a treat to see Darcy properly court Elizabeth from the very start. Seeing Caroline Bingley disdain Darcy was howlingly funny.
August 14, 2024
Oh
My
G-d
I couldn’t put this down. This was unexpectedly delicious. Canon has been turned upside and backwards in the most delightful way.
Loooooved it!
My
G-d
I couldn’t put this down. This was unexpectedly delicious. Canon has been turned upside and backwards in the most delightful way.
Loooooved it!
August 8, 2024
Darcy learns humility in a new way
Someone seems to be destroying Darcy's reputation everywhere he goes and it takes some time for him to figure out the plots against him. Along the way, he learns to cope with disdain, rejection, insults, and frustration while improving his manners. He also learns who his real friends are and what his true values are while experiencing some very embarrassing moments. Good plot, witty moments, and a sweet, romantic ending.
Someone seems to be destroying Darcy's reputation everywhere he goes and it takes some time for him to figure out the plots against him. Along the way, he learns to cope with disdain, rejection, insults, and frustration while improving his manners. He also learns who his real friends are and what his true values are while experiencing some very embarrassing moments. Good plot, witty moments, and a sweet, romantic ending.
August 6, 2024
delightful
A fast paced and mysterious curse has been placed on Fitzwilliam Darcy to prevent his taking a bride. Is it real and will it succeed or will he manage to escape and find true love? I enjoyed it very much.
A fast paced and mysterious curse has been placed on Fitzwilliam Darcy to prevent his taking a bride. Is it real and will it succeed or will he manage to escape and find true love? I enjoyed it very much.
September 12, 2024
An entertaining, pleasant short read. I enjoyed it.
I will mention that men did NOT wear boots to balls! They had shoes appropriate for dancing.
There are a lot of thanks at the end for people who helped with editing, but I was often taken out of the story by mistakes that should have been caught by a proofreader. In particular, there are many missing quote marks. It was quite distracting.
I will mention that men did NOT wear boots to balls! They had shoes appropriate for dancing.
There are a lot of thanks at the end for people who helped with editing, but I was often taken out of the story by mistakes that should have been caught by a proofreader. In particular, there are many missing quote marks. It was quite distracting.
July 14, 2025
A fantastic combo!
I had read this story when it first came out, but absolutely adore the audiobook version, with Harry Frost's bringing it all to life.
The opening chapters set the stage of strings being pulled to ruin Darcy's life. When he finally seeks refuge at Netherfield, he is practically a leper, as far as Society is concerned. Not even Caroline Bingley wants him. Due to his troubles, he decides to make a break from the Society that abandoned him. This brings him to Meryton, with a mind open to the idea of a country gentlewoman. Duty was no longer a factor; he would seek his happiness! The courtship is darling, and aside from Mr Bennet, no one knows.
Without giving more away, I will say I was surprised at the identity of the nefarious shadow in the background and 2 characters get their just desserts, in a creative way!
Between this engaging book and the fabulous narration, this is a winning combo to listen to.
I won this audiobook in a contest, with no expectation of a review, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
I had read this story when it first came out, but absolutely adore the audiobook version, with Harry Frost's bringing it all to life.
The opening chapters set the stage of strings being pulled to ruin Darcy's life. When he finally seeks refuge at Netherfield, he is practically a leper, as far as Society is concerned. Not even Caroline Bingley wants him. Due to his troubles, he decides to make a break from the Society that abandoned him. This brings him to Meryton, with a mind open to the idea of a country gentlewoman. Duty was no longer a factor; he would seek his happiness! The courtship is darling, and aside from Mr Bennet, no one knows.
Without giving more away, I will say I was surprised at the identity of the nefarious shadow in the background and 2 characters get their just desserts, in a creative way!
Between this engaging book and the fabulous narration, this is a winning combo to listen to.
I won this audiobook in a contest, with no expectation of a review, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
September 20, 2024
The premise of this story is inconsistent.
Mr. Darcy goes to London to seek a wife. Darcy pursues one woman after another over a couple of years, however every courtship ends in disaster for the woman.
Rumors against Darcy begin to circulate around London and Darcy decides to flee London for the countryside.
The rumors continue to circulate and Darcy realises SOMEONE must be targeting him.
Eventually Darcy makes his way to Netherfield and Elizabeth. And yet a target gets painted on Caroline Bingley despite her openly vocal scorn for Mr. Darcy. Also Darcy isn't courting Caroline. I know this was done to throw Caroline and Wickham together, but it is inconsistent with the story.
Darcy and Elizabeth get their HEA, with a trail of ruined women behind them. Ick.
Mr. Darcy goes to London to seek a wife. Darcy pursues one woman after another over a couple of years, however every courtship ends in disaster for the woman.
Rumors against Darcy begin to circulate around London and Darcy decides to flee London for the countryside.
The rumors continue to circulate and Darcy realises SOMEONE must be targeting him.
Eventually Darcy makes his way to Netherfield and Elizabeth. And yet a target gets painted on Caroline Bingley despite her openly vocal scorn for Mr. Darcy. Also Darcy isn't courting Caroline. I know this was done to throw Caroline and Wickham together, but it is inconsistent with the story.
Darcy and Elizabeth get their HEA, with a trail of ruined women behind them. Ick.
February 21, 2025
Ok read
It took me some time to get into this book. Darcy voice was not sounding right on my head, and a lot of his problems seemed silly to me. The fact that society treated him the way that they did seemed a bit far-fetched. Even shop keepers shuned him...ummm ok. And then all of these women that he wanted to court, our Darcy was never interested in courting other women so it was a bit off to me. But i have to remember that this is a variation.
But once he met Lizzy about 30% into the book, i got more into it. After that it progressed well enough. I was a bit off on who the villain was so that was a nice little surprise and I felt that Caroline was I'll used. Who would have thought that I would favor Caroline. Lol
It took me some time to get into this book. Darcy voice was not sounding right on my head, and a lot of his problems seemed silly to me. The fact that society treated him the way that they did seemed a bit far-fetched. Even shop keepers shuned him...ummm ok. And then all of these women that he wanted to court, our Darcy was never interested in courting other women so it was a bit off to me. But i have to remember that this is a variation.
But once he met Lizzy about 30% into the book, i got more into it. After that it progressed well enough. I was a bit off on who the villain was so that was a nice little surprise and I felt that Caroline was I'll used. Who would have thought that I would favor Caroline. Lol
October 18, 2024
Sobering for the great Fitzwilliam Darcy
This is a well-written variation quite original and ingenious. This reader gives high marks for the author for conceptualizing such a novel tale.
In this offering, Mr. Darcy is humbled by society’s Ton of rumors of his ruination and curse whoever he shows an interest on a woman to marry. Leaving him no choice but to retreat, he joins Bingley in Hertfordshire to lick his wounds, hoping to find some peace. The Pride and prejudice only existed but so little and short of duration for Elizabeth and Darcy as they came to an understanding very early on in the story. This is what has caused the star deduction. Because they have to keep their romance under wraps, the love affair isn’t as manifest as one hoped it would be. More focus is on Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet, intelligent, honorable and lovely as she is in this story, hardly makes a splash. Furthermore, although the angst of the Darcy curse is there, it takes little effect towards the end, as the author masterfully did away with the antagonists easily without much of a sweat to Darcy, Elizabeth, Bingley and their families. The fact that the miscreants got their just desserts feels like icing on the cake.
If a humbled Darcy and an early understanding between him and Elizabeth Bennet is what readers wish for, this is a good, sobering yet less angsty variation recommend for its originality and for being an easy and quick read.
This is a well-written variation quite original and ingenious. This reader gives high marks for the author for conceptualizing such a novel tale.
In this offering, Mr. Darcy is humbled by society’s Ton of rumors of his ruination and curse whoever he shows an interest on a woman to marry. Leaving him no choice but to retreat, he joins Bingley in Hertfordshire to lick his wounds, hoping to find some peace. The Pride and prejudice only existed but so little and short of duration for Elizabeth and Darcy as they came to an understanding very early on in the story. This is what has caused the star deduction. Because they have to keep their romance under wraps, the love affair isn’t as manifest as one hoped it would be. More focus is on Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet, intelligent, honorable and lovely as she is in this story, hardly makes a splash. Furthermore, although the angst of the Darcy curse is there, it takes little effect towards the end, as the author masterfully did away with the antagonists easily without much of a sweat to Darcy, Elizabeth, Bingley and their families. The fact that the miscreants got their just desserts feels like icing on the cake.
If a humbled Darcy and an early understanding between him and Elizabeth Bennet is what readers wish for, this is a good, sobering yet less angsty variation recommend for its originality and for being an easy and quick read.
November 17, 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. Mr. Darcy is un-marriageable. Every time he shows any interest in a lady, be it casual or serious, the lady disappears or has disaster befall her. Soon, society spreads gossip that he is cursed, and mamas and daughters alike shun his company. Some unknown nemesis keeps the rumors alive, and soon, he suspects he will never find happiness until he discovers who wants him ruined. In Meryton, a humbled Mr. Darcy finds himself drawn to a local beauty and ever cautious that the villain behind his misfortune is watching, he takes great pains to keep his courtship a secret. He disguises his intentions by showing equal attention to all the ladies and being amiable to everyone. When an old enemy arrives in Meryton unexpectedly, Darcy is instantly wary and works even harder to keep his relationship with Elizabeth from being widely known. Will he ever be free to marry and love her openly, or is his love doomed to be thwarted? 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. Mr. Darcy is un-marriageable. Every time he shows any interest in a lady, be it casual or serious, the lady disappears or has disaster befall her. Soon, society spreads gossip that he is cursed, and mamas and daughters alike shun his company. Some unknown nemesis keeps the rumors alive, and soon, he suspects he will never find happiness until he discovers who wants him ruined. In Meryton, a humbled Mr. Darcy finds himself drawn to a local beauty and ever cautious that the villain behind his misfortune is watching, he takes great pains to keep his courtship a secret. He disguises his intentions by showing equal attention to all the ladies and being amiable to everyone. When an old enemy arrives in Meryton unexpectedly, Darcy is instantly wary and works even harder to keep his relationship with Elizabeth from being widely known. Will he ever be free to marry and love her openly, or is his love doomed to be thwarted? 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.
June 4, 2025
Poor Darcy is cursed. For years, whenever he courts a woman, something dreadful happens. Her family sends her off under mysterious circumstances, with no explanation for Darcy. Rumors among the ton make him a persona non grata. No parent wants him anywhere near their daughter, and he gets the cut direct wherever he goes. Even Caroline Bingley wants nothing to do with him. It's clear from the hints that someone with a nefarious plan is behind this disaster. We think we know who it is, but do we?
Friend that he is, Bingley invites him to scope out Netherfield and invites him for a prolonged visit when it's ready. Georgiana's experience at Ramsgate has left her in need of psychotherapy, which, unfortunately, was not an option in the early 19th century. Darcy leaves her with the Matlocks and parks himself at Netherfield.
The Meryton assembly plays out differently from canon. Darcy and Elizabeth quickly form a close relationship, but must hide it from the world, lest the messenger of doom discover it and cause her harm.
What bothered me most about this variation is that
Friend that he is, Bingley invites him to scope out Netherfield and invites him for a prolonged visit when it's ready. Georgiana's experience at Ramsgate has left her in need of psychotherapy, which, unfortunately, was not an option in the early 19th century. Darcy leaves her with the Matlocks and parks himself at Netherfield.
The Meryton assembly plays out differently from canon. Darcy and Elizabeth quickly form a close relationship, but must hide it from the world, lest the messenger of doom discover it and cause her harm.
What bothered me most about this variation is that
November 16, 2024
3.75* - an intriguing plot
I really enjoyed the plot idea in this book - very original so hats off to the author for the novelty. The development of the plot is good and runs smoothly and the characters are true to the original within the parameters of the altered plot line. All good.
There are however rather too many editing inconsistencies to give this a higher rating. I had carefully highlighted these on my Kindle but as is often the case Goodreads failed to pick them up. To highlight a few,
- Darcy is aged 28 in November 1810 which is not correct. A little point but it grated.
- there is a rather strange reference to Henry VIII which just didn't work for me
- a suggestion that it would be surprising for rumours to have reached Surrey from London yet apparently not surprising that they would have reached Derbyshire. Surrey is only 40ish miles from central London so not even a day's ride away.
- another travelling miss - it took several days to travel to Ramsgate from London which again is not correct. 2 days would be about right, especially when this was just Darcy travelling alone.
- I found the beginning of each section with a name to be rather distracting and unnecessary. This can be helpful when a book is give the same scene from two perspectives. Otherwise it is not necessary.
- "muss" is not a Regency word (or indeed an English word, or indeed a good word full stop)
- use of "hung" instead of "hanged"
Kudos for remembering that the Gardiners live NEAR Cheapside rather than IN Cheapside. SO many authors miss this.
Overall, a good book but with a few editing blips.
I really enjoyed the plot idea in this book - very original so hats off to the author for the novelty. The development of the plot is good and runs smoothly and the characters are true to the original within the parameters of the altered plot line. All good.
There are however rather too many editing inconsistencies to give this a higher rating. I had carefully highlighted these on my Kindle but as is often the case Goodreads failed to pick them up. To highlight a few,
- Darcy is aged 28 in November 1810 which is not correct. A little point but it grated.
- there is a rather strange reference to Henry VIII which just didn't work for me
- a suggestion that it would be surprising for rumours to have reached Surrey from London yet apparently not surprising that they would have reached Derbyshire. Surrey is only 40ish miles from central London so not even a day's ride away.
- another travelling miss - it took several days to travel to Ramsgate from London which again is not correct. 2 days would be about right, especially when this was just Darcy travelling alone.
- I found the beginning of each section with a name to be rather distracting and unnecessary. This can be helpful when a book is give the same scene from two perspectives. Otherwise it is not necessary.
- "muss" is not a Regency word (or indeed an English word, or indeed a good word full stop)
- use of "hung" instead of "hanged"
Kudos for remembering that the Gardiners live NEAR Cheapside rather than IN Cheapside. SO many authors miss this.
Overall, a good book but with a few editing blips.
August 6, 2024
Kites rise highest against the wind, not with it. ~ Winston Churchill
Do you ever rejoice when you discover a JAFF book that doesn’t fit neatly into a trope? Even a favorite trope?
Well, rejoice with me when you pick up a copy of “Thwarted.”
The author’s blurb gives clues to the story. Darcy has had a series of ill luck whenever he becomes interested in a specific young woman. Or rather, the young women have the ill luck. As a result, Darcy is persona non grata with the single ladies of London and their parents. He must hide his attraction to any marital possibilities.
Control your fate or someone else will. ~ Heinrich von Pierer
Grab this one if you’re ready for something a little out of the ordinary.
Loved it!
I will seize fate by the throat; it shall certainly never wholly overcome me. ~ Ludwig van Beethoven
Do you ever rejoice when you discover a JAFF book that doesn’t fit neatly into a trope? Even a favorite trope?
Well, rejoice with me when you pick up a copy of “Thwarted.”
The author’s blurb gives clues to the story. Darcy has had a series of ill luck whenever he becomes interested in a specific young woman. Or rather, the young women have the ill luck. As a result, Darcy is persona non grata with the single ladies of London and their parents. He must hide his attraction to any marital possibilities.
Control your fate or someone else will. ~ Heinrich von Pierer
Grab this one if you’re ready for something a little out of the ordinary.
Loved it!
I will seize fate by the throat; it shall certainly never wholly overcome me. ~ Ludwig van Beethoven
September 12, 2024
Quite entertaining
I was a little dubious of the premise, but I've liked this author before, so I have it a shot. In fact, the premise was an effective way to turn Darcy's character on its head without changing any of the other characters. Therefore, the angst was in Darcy's situation, not the couple's romance.
This was kind but indolent Mr Bennet with Mrs Bennet getting limited page time (yay!). Caroline is still Caroline, but Darcy's situation changes her behavior and attitude towards him. She still reaps what she sows.
Wickham is a useful bad guy.
However, the reason you should read it is that it manages to be both sweet and clever. It's funny in parts and sad in others and doesn't ever drag. I enjoyed it far more than I expected and look forward to rereading it.
I was a little dubious of the premise, but I've liked this author before, so I have it a shot. In fact, the premise was an effective way to turn Darcy's character on its head without changing any of the other characters. Therefore, the angst was in Darcy's situation, not the couple's romance.
This was kind but indolent Mr Bennet with Mrs Bennet getting limited page time (yay!). Caroline is still Caroline, but Darcy's situation changes her behavior and attitude towards him. She still reaps what she sows.
Wickham is a useful bad guy.
However, the reason you should read it is that it manages to be both sweet and clever. It's funny in parts and sad in others and doesn't ever drag. I enjoyed it far more than I expected and look forward to rereading it.
September 22, 2024
Darcy proves himself
4 1/2 stars rounded up
Someone is out to make Darcy’s life miserable and the fallout to those around him can be devastating. It takes time for Darcy to see the truth and realize that he needs to approach things differently. This change along with the truth of his situation goes a long way to make him a more agreeable man. This is a Darcy who will do anything for people he loves including Elizabeth. I enjoyed how Mr Bennet understands the situation and facilitated a secret courtship. It was also fun to see how Bingley‘s sisters absolutely believed the gossip about Darcy thus Miss Bingley was not fawning over him the entire book. Quite enjoyable. I loved seeing Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love with each other. This is a story that I will read again.
4 1/2 stars rounded up
Someone is out to make Darcy’s life miserable and the fallout to those around him can be devastating. It takes time for Darcy to see the truth and realize that he needs to approach things differently. This change along with the truth of his situation goes a long way to make him a more agreeable man. This is a Darcy who will do anything for people he loves including Elizabeth. I enjoyed how Mr Bennet understands the situation and facilitated a secret courtship. It was also fun to see how Bingley‘s sisters absolutely believed the gossip about Darcy thus Miss Bingley was not fawning over him the entire book. Quite enjoyable. I loved seeing Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love with each other. This is a story that I will read again.
September 19, 2024
A fun read!
The author had fun writing this book, and I had fun reading it. The description implied p that it wouldn’t be like the plot of P&P, so I read it with no intention of critiquing the adherence to accuracy with respect to the original, geography, or social customs. The writing style was an interesting combination of dialogue and “telling” some background incidents. I found only one sentence that was a bit garbled with changes not completely deleted and a missing verb. All in all a thoroughly enjoyable book that will go from KU to a purchase so I can explore other books by MJ Stratton.
The author had fun writing this book, and I had fun reading it. The description implied p that it wouldn’t be like the plot of P&P, so I read it with no intention of critiquing the adherence to accuracy with respect to the original, geography, or social customs. The writing style was an interesting combination of dialogue and “telling” some background incidents. I found only one sentence that was a bit garbled with changes not completely deleted and a missing verb. All in all a thoroughly enjoyable book that will go from KU to a purchase so I can explore other books by MJ Stratton.
November 2, 2024
Oh my, this author has done it again with a wonderful tale! Somehow, soon after Mr. Darcy's father passed away, every time he has shown any interest in a lady, that lady has met some calamity and disappeared from society. Rumors are that Mr. Darcy has become cursed and no one will allow him to consider their eligible daughters or sisters. In addition, a new rumor begins that he has lost his fortune and is looking for a rich heiress to marry. His troubles take up most of the first half of the book and it is a bit sad. Meanwhile you know that someone is being paid to hurt the women and propagate the rumors, but you don't know who, though you might have some guesses as to who it is and who is behind it.
Darcy is a humbled man, realizing down to his bones how shallow the ton really is, since almost all of his so-called friends have abandoned him, other than Bingley, the Colonel and the Matlocks. He finally goes to visit Bingley at Netherfield, even though Caroline has believed all of the rumors and wants to have nothing to do with him. At the Assembly, Bingley comes up with an idea: Darcy should be friendly to everyone, dance and converse every dance, so no one will be able to tell that he likes Miss Elizabeth, who struck his attention immediately upon being introduced, but he was afraid to dance with her. With the help of Bingley, Jane, Mr. Bennet, and a faithful maid Sally, he is able to see Elizabeth very early in the mornings at Oakham Mount to carry on a courtship.
You MUST read the story to find out all the rest of the shenanigans, not to mention the romance! One of the baddies got off too easily, IMO, but the primary evil person was taken care of as they deserved.
I highly recommend this book!
Darcy is a humbled man, realizing down to his bones how shallow the ton really is, since almost all of his so-called friends have abandoned him, other than Bingley, the Colonel and the Matlocks. He finally goes to visit Bingley at Netherfield, even though Caroline has believed all of the rumors and wants to have nothing to do with him. At the Assembly, Bingley comes up with an idea: Darcy should be friendly to everyone, dance and converse every dance, so no one will be able to tell that he likes Miss Elizabeth, who struck his attention immediately upon being introduced, but he was afraid to dance with her. With the help of Bingley, Jane, Mr. Bennet, and a faithful maid Sally, he is able to see Elizabeth very early in the mornings at Oakham Mount to carry on a courtship.
You MUST read the story to find out all the rest of the shenanigans, not to mention the romance! One of the baddies got off too easily, IMO, but the primary evil person was taken care of as they deserved.
I highly recommend this book!
August 6, 2024
It’s another great story by MJ Stratton. A touch of mystery, great chemistry between D&E and other characters very well developed.
The premise might be a bit far fetched, but I loved a description how ruthless and thoughtful rumors can destroy a person’s life. Darcy went from highly sought after wealthy bachelor to an ostracized, lonely man. I loved Bingley in this variation, a steadfast and loyal friend. Mr Hurst was a nice surprise too. And though the culprits might seem obvious, there may be a surprise or two in store.
Highly recommended
The premise might be a bit far fetched, but I loved a description how ruthless and thoughtful rumors can destroy a person’s life. Darcy went from highly sought after wealthy bachelor to an ostracized, lonely man. I loved Bingley in this variation, a steadfast and loyal friend. Mr Hurst was a nice surprise too. And though the culprits might seem obvious, there may be a surprise or two in store.
Highly recommended
September 9, 2024
Sad then Satisfying
The beginning was so sad, all the terrible things that happened to the ladies who interested Mr Darcy. In fact, until he got to Meryton, it was hard to keep my interest. Then came the Meryton assembly and things took off.
I truly enjoyed the repartee between Darcy, Elizabeth, and Mr Bennet. The courtship was well done and careful, unlike Lizzy's usual behavior. Well written and edited for those who are nitpickers, like me. Enjoyable.
The beginning was so sad, all the terrible things that happened to the ladies who interested Mr Darcy. In fact, until he got to Meryton, it was hard to keep my interest. Then came the Meryton assembly and things took off.
I truly enjoyed the repartee between Darcy, Elizabeth, and Mr Bennet. The courtship was well done and careful, unlike Lizzy's usual behavior. Well written and edited for those who are nitpickers, like me. Enjoyable.
July 23, 2025
Power of Rumours
This was a fun variation to watch unfold. As Darcy experienced much personal growth and “humbling” before even meeting Elizabeth, it was nice to see their relationship begin on more even footing. Getting to know someone while trying to evade and adversaries proved very interesting. Overall, the story was a pleasure to read.
This was a fun variation to watch unfold. As Darcy experienced much personal growth and “humbling” before even meeting Elizabeth, it was nice to see their relationship begin on more even footing. Getting to know someone while trying to evade and adversaries proved very interesting. Overall, the story was a pleasure to read.
August 20, 2024
Great story!
I enjoyed this book very much especially the surprise villain and the outcome for "poor" Miss Bingley. It could have used more love scenes for ODC but that's just my preference.
I enjoyed this book very much especially the surprise villain and the outcome for "poor" Miss Bingley. It could have used more love scenes for ODC but that's just my preference.
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