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The Bachelor Mr Darcy
*Listening Length: 9 hours and 57 minutes
Here I am, surrounded by heiresses without so much as a murmur from my heart
MR FITZWILLIAM DARCY'S FAMILY has decided it is time for him to select a wife and marry. To that end, Pemberley is suddenly inundated with eligible young ladies vying for his time and attention. Disinterested in the notion, Mr Darcy’s attention is on his myriad other troubles. He has a London journalist whose attention has suddenly has turned towards him with unsavoury and false rumours, and lives with a wounded Colonel Fitzwilliam whose sanity has been called into question. To add to that he finds himself surprisingly and suddenly captivated by one fine-eyed young lady who is visiting Pemberley.
ELIZABETH BENNET HAS NO INTEREST IN MARRYING—ever. Hard life lessons have taught her that she can only rely upon herself. To that end, she earns a tidy sum as the secret author of a popular gossip column in a London paper, Mr Pennywithers Reports—and Mr Pennywithers has been tasked with learning the truth about the enigmatic Fitzwilliam Darcy. An unexpected invitation to go to Pemberley provides her with just the opportunity she needs…provided she can keep her true identity concealed.
IT'S NO BED OF ROSES—one bachelor is up against surprising alliances, a bevy of mean girls, rumours, gossip and a multitude of hidden agendas. Can it all be untangled in time for true love to prevail or will scandal defeat them all?
Here I am, surrounded by heiresses without so much as a murmur from my heart
MR FITZWILLIAM DARCY'S FAMILY has decided it is time for him to select a wife and marry. To that end, Pemberley is suddenly inundated with eligible young ladies vying for his time and attention. Disinterested in the notion, Mr Darcy’s attention is on his myriad other troubles. He has a London journalist whose attention has suddenly has turned towards him with unsavoury and false rumours, and lives with a wounded Colonel Fitzwilliam whose sanity has been called into question. To add to that he finds himself surprisingly and suddenly captivated by one fine-eyed young lady who is visiting Pemberley.
ELIZABETH BENNET HAS NO INTEREST IN MARRYING—ever. Hard life lessons have taught her that she can only rely upon herself. To that end, she earns a tidy sum as the secret author of a popular gossip column in a London paper, Mr Pennywithers Reports—and Mr Pennywithers has been tasked with learning the truth about the enigmatic Fitzwilliam Darcy. An unexpected invitation to go to Pemberley provides her with just the opportunity she needs…provided she can keep her true identity concealed.
IT'S NO BED OF ROSES—one bachelor is up against surprising alliances, a bevy of mean girls, rumours, gossip and a multitude of hidden agendas. Can it all be untangled in time for true love to prevail or will scandal defeat them all?
10 pages, Audiobook
Published August 13, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
February 7, 2025
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars. This is one of those authors whose stories I immediately either borrow through KU or put on my "Wish List" (If the book has not yet been published.)
Elizabeth takes on the role of a "scribbler", authoring a gossip column for a newspaper. She and Jane have left Longbourn as Mr. Bennet has died, Collins has pushed Elizabeth out the door and so she (along with Jane) moved in with the Gardiners. Few know about her being "Mr. Pennywithers" who presents himself as a valet who uses his position to observe the upper class and report on them.
She is given an assignment to search out the truth about a popular bachelor, Mr. Darcy, and becomes one of a party of ladies invited to his estate for a houseparty.
One the the interesting activities designed to entertain the company are various competitions, such as a musical evening and a curricle race. Clues are collected for the one event and the final prize is £50.
We have various characters from canon: Lady Catherine, Anne de Bourgh, the Bingley siblings, Richard Fitzwilliam (a scarred veteran in this story) and a character from one of this author's previous stories. Anne becomes a friend of Caroline...oddly.
Darcy finds himself attracted to Elizabeth and we read of various kisses and small caresses being shared. Elizabeth knows that not only does she not present as a lady with fortune and connections but also she has a secret. It soon it comes out that Mr. Pennywithers is related to Elizabeth.
So it is that when Darcy proposes Elizabeth knows she must reveal that she is more than what he thinks she is.
This is a long story and I didn't even hint at all that happens. It does keep you turning pages. I recommend this story.
Elizabeth takes on the role of a "scribbler", authoring a gossip column for a newspaper. She and Jane have left Longbourn as Mr. Bennet has died, Collins has pushed Elizabeth out the door and so she (along with Jane) moved in with the Gardiners. Few know about her being "Mr. Pennywithers" who presents himself as a valet who uses his position to observe the upper class and report on them.
She is given an assignment to search out the truth about a popular bachelor, Mr. Darcy, and becomes one of a party of ladies invited to his estate for a houseparty.
One the the interesting activities designed to entertain the company are various competitions, such as a musical evening and a curricle race. Clues are collected for the one event and the final prize is £50.
We have various characters from canon: Lady Catherine, Anne de Bourgh, the Bingley siblings, Richard Fitzwilliam (a scarred veteran in this story) and a character from one of this author's previous stories. Anne becomes a friend of Caroline...oddly.
Darcy finds himself attracted to Elizabeth and we read of various kisses and small caresses being shared. Elizabeth knows that not only does she not present as a lady with fortune and connections but also she has a secret. It soon it comes out that Mr. Pennywithers is related to Elizabeth.
So it is that when Darcy proposes Elizabeth knows she must reveal that she is more than what he thinks she is.
This is a long story and I didn't even hint at all that happens. It does keep you turning pages. I recommend this story.
May 29, 2025
This book is chock-a-block full of story, and backstory.
This is a beautifully written book, with multiple love stories, painful backstories and a fast pace, so there is never a dull moment.
Darcy and Elizabeth meet under completely new circumstances. Mr. Bennet is dead and some of the girls are not in good situations, especially Elizabeth. Due to her anonymous writing career she and Jane end up at a house party at Pemberley.
Our dear couple hit it off nearly from the start, including combustible physical attraction (it's clean, only kissing.) Needless to say, it's not smooth sailing.
Underlapping the multiple romances budding on the estate, we slowly learn the histories of a few of the main characters, and of their pain and wounds - Some visible, some not.
I loved that the author brought Sarah Bentley back. She is slightly less scattered brained than in A Match Made at Matlock.
The usual spitefuls are present as well, but they play a perfect foil for the real drama happening front stage.
There are a few scenes between Elizabeth and Darcy, but more importantly Darcy and Richard, where issues, emotions and just- stuff, is discussed and they are exquisite for all they are far from easy.
A stunning read. I have an audible credit saved with this name on it!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a beautifully written book, with multiple love stories, painful backstories and a fast pace, so there is never a dull moment.
Darcy and Elizabeth meet under completely new circumstances. Mr. Bennet is dead and some of the girls are not in good situations, especially Elizabeth. Due to her anonymous writing career she and Jane end up at a house party at Pemberley.
Our dear couple hit it off nearly from the start, including combustible physical attraction (it's clean, only kissing.) Needless to say, it's not smooth sailing.
Underlapping the multiple romances budding on the estate, we slowly learn the histories of a few of the main characters, and of their pain and wounds - Some visible, some not.
I loved that the author brought Sarah Bentley back. She is slightly less scattered brained than in A Match Made at Matlock.
The usual spitefuls are present as well, but they play a perfect foil for the real drama happening front stage.
There are a few scenes between Elizabeth and Darcy, but more importantly Darcy and Richard, where issues, emotions and just- stuff, is discussed and they are exquisite for all they are far from easy.
A stunning read. I have an audible credit saved with this name on it!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 20, 2025
A secret occupation.
Elizabeth Bennet has lost her father and her home, and is under the care of the Gardiners. Her strong-willed nature drives her to seek self-sufficiency and independence, leading her to adopt the persona of Mr. Pennywithers, a principled London gossip columnist who prefers to write about the good in people rather than the vicious tittle-tattle most columnists are prone to publish—the latter most eager to share any gossip about Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Georgiana, troubled by her own personal mistakes, is concerned over the gossip that has been circulating about her brother. Georgiana wants her brother’s true character to be known. To achieve her goal, she enlists the assistance of her friend, Sarah Bentley, a familiar character to JAFF readers from “A Match Made at Matlock”. Sarah approaches Mr. Pennywithers’ appointed agent (Mr. Gardiner) to request his attendance at a house party hosted at Pemberley. Georgiana’s aim is for Mr. Pennywithers to acquaint himself with the true character of Mr. Darcy and assist in restoring his damaged reputation. Accompanied by her sister, Jane, and Sarah, Elizabeth embarks on a good-will journey with only Jane knowing her secret identity.
Meanwhile, Darcy is more concerned with estate matters and the well-being of his cousin Richard, who is recuperating from the traumas of war at Pemberley’s dower house.
It’s pretty much ‘love at first sight’ for Darcy, but Elizabeth is carrying a lot of personal baggage in this variation. Eventually, she gradually shares her past with him, but as her feelings for him grow, she is conflicted, not yet wanting to deviate from her future plans.
Always inventive and original, Julie Cooper’s pen engages the reader from start to finish with clever dialogue, a measure of drama, just a bit of angst, and heartwarming romance. In this story, more than one. She weaves potential love with complications and the scheming of troublemakers, including Darcy’s well-known nemesis, and ladies intent on capturing the most eligible bachelor of the Ton. The gradual revelation of character backstories in this novel leaves the reader in positive anticipation as it all unfolds.
Highly recommend.
Kisses only.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
August 16-17, 2024 - Audiobook
Arthur Rowan’s Darcy is sooo swoon worthy, and in both the male and female voices truly carries the emotions of characters to the listener’s ear. He is perfect for Julie Cooper’s portrayal of this particular Darcy. Both versions of this book are outstanding.
Elizabeth Bennet has lost her father and her home, and is under the care of the Gardiners. Her strong-willed nature drives her to seek self-sufficiency and independence, leading her to adopt the persona of Mr. Pennywithers, a principled London gossip columnist who prefers to write about the good in people rather than the vicious tittle-tattle most columnists are prone to publish—the latter most eager to share any gossip about Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Georgiana, troubled by her own personal mistakes, is concerned over the gossip that has been circulating about her brother. Georgiana wants her brother’s true character to be known. To achieve her goal, she enlists the assistance of her friend, Sarah Bentley, a familiar character to JAFF readers from “A Match Made at Matlock”. Sarah approaches Mr. Pennywithers’ appointed agent (Mr. Gardiner) to request his attendance at a house party hosted at Pemberley. Georgiana’s aim is for Mr. Pennywithers to acquaint himself with the true character of Mr. Darcy and assist in restoring his damaged reputation. Accompanied by her sister, Jane, and Sarah, Elizabeth embarks on a good-will journey with only Jane knowing her secret identity.
Meanwhile, Darcy is more concerned with estate matters and the well-being of his cousin Richard, who is recuperating from the traumas of war at Pemberley’s dower house.
It’s pretty much ‘love at first sight’ for Darcy, but Elizabeth is carrying a lot of personal baggage in this variation. Eventually, she gradually shares her past with him, but as her feelings for him grow, she is conflicted, not yet wanting to deviate from her future plans.
Always inventive and original, Julie Cooper’s pen engages the reader from start to finish with clever dialogue, a measure of drama, just a bit of angst, and heartwarming romance. In this story, more than one. She weaves potential love with complications and the scheming of troublemakers, including Darcy’s well-known nemesis, and ladies intent on capturing the most eligible bachelor of the Ton. The gradual revelation of character backstories in this novel leaves the reader in positive anticipation as it all unfolds.
Highly recommend.
Kisses only.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
August 16-17, 2024 - Audiobook
Arthur Rowan’s Darcy is sooo swoon worthy, and in both the male and female voices truly carries the emotions of characters to the listener’s ear. He is perfect for Julie Cooper’s portrayal of this particular Darcy. Both versions of this book are outstanding.
June 8, 2024
“What does an introvert do when he’s left alone? He stays alone.” –Jenni Ferrari-Adler, Alone in the Kitchen with an Eggplant: Confessions of Cooking for One and Dining Alone
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS *** I don’t mean to.
>>Rating: mature teen: nothing graphic but steamy nonetheless. It might go over the heads of a younger reader but maybe not. Hints: suggested sexual innuendo and, the behavior of the villains, the SBRB made his presence known. Minor violence [not bad, just a bit of bruising] and actions of revenge.
>>Angst Level: There be angst.
>>Tissue Alert: Have at least one handy. I teared up a time or two.
>>Fan Points: Have a fan on hand. There were swoon-worthy speeches, declarations, and behavior that contained a bit of steam. Whew!
>>Source: Free copy via Booksprout 4-21-24: I volunteered to leave a review of my thoughts and opinions of this work. No artificial interference, interpretation, or intelligence was used and the errors are exclusively mine. I own it, warts and all. [Prologue + 56 Chapters + Epilogue: 5-stars]
>>Trope: [1] a Bennet dies [2] Collins married a Bennet sister instead of Charlotte.
>>Timeline: After Bingley’s ball, the Netherfield party skulked off to London leaving behind a devastated heart. Post the proposal of marriage by Mr. Collins which, by the way, did not go well.
OMG! ICNPID: I read straight through. My eyes were crossed by the time I finished. Julie Cooper always grabs me with her twists on the canon story. I shouldn’t be surprised, but I always am. This twist was amazing. The London gossip sheets were replete with the actions of the ton and anyone who was anyone often found their initials inserted within the text. Nothing escaped the eyes and ears of the Scribblers. That was the Regency title for the reporters. Of course, there were the unscrupulous reporters, who reported trash, outright lies, and salacious gossip, for the sole purpose of selling newspapers. However, among the tabbies and gossip mongers was a ray of light writing under the moniker, Mr. Pennywithers. He was a valet for a gentleman and had a gentle way of writing full of wit and never cruel. I adored his writing as it always made me smile. He became somewhat of a cult hero to the other valets and those in the serving class. However, Mr. Pennywithers, as stated, was not his real name. He also had a secret that very few knew. I adored this character. His columns made me smile, laugh out loud, and tear up all at the same time.
“Single is not a status; it is a word that describes a person who is strong enough to live and enjoy life without depending on others.” –pixie
Fitzwilliam Darcy: that poor boy was a mess as Julie Cooper presented a new twist to his backstory. I felt sorry for him. His disappointment over his family was acute. Our resident villain was only too quick to pour salt into his wound. That boy and his mother were bad to their core.
Colonel Fitzwilliam: Oh, that poor man. I loved and adored him. I approve of the choice for his HEA. Well done, I loved that part. I was so glad to see that come about.
Sarah Bentley: I adored this new character. She was so cool and the perfect foil to round out the characters. She closely resembled Elizabeth Bennet in spirit and courage. She helped stand in the gap between Elizabeth and the villains. I liked her and her HEA was so sweet. Her references to flowers were hilarious.
This was a very different Georgiana. With the support of Elizabeth and friends, Georgiana’s courage rose in the face of intimidation. Goodness knows she needed it.
Julie Cooper took Austen’s P&P storyline and tossed it in the air. It was shaken and stirred a few times and, when the dust settled, an adorable story was revealed. This was a strange twist in many ways, yet shocking as our characters were taken in another direction. I enjoyed this twist and the swoon-worthy comments and declarations. Oh, my. Fan points.
Villains:
Mr. Collins: after Bennet’s death, he acted just as you would suppose he would. Elizabeth had refused him and was tossed from the house after Mr. Bennet’s death. This sent her on a life-altering journey that put her in the company of Fitzwilliam Darcy earlier than the canon account.
Wickham: He was his mother’s son and that acorn did not fall far from the tree. Just saying his name makes me want to spit and rinse out my mouth. He tormented and tortured Fitzwilliam Darcy for most of his young life. However, as hard as he tried, the SBRB could not break the Pemberley heir.
Lady Catherine: This harridan will never receive the ‘Mother of the Year’ award. OMG! I have never felt so sorry for Anne de Bourgh as I did when I read about her backstory with her mother’s idea of punishment. Yeah, she was a villain to a degree but not a villain to the core. This poor child was pitiful.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS *** I don’t mean to.
>>Rating: mature teen: nothing graphic but steamy nonetheless. It might go over the heads of a younger reader but maybe not. Hints: suggested sexual innuendo and, the behavior of the villains, the SBRB made his presence known. Minor violence [not bad, just a bit of bruising] and actions of revenge.
>>Angst Level: There be angst.
>>Tissue Alert: Have at least one handy. I teared up a time or two.
>>Fan Points: Have a fan on hand. There were swoon-worthy speeches, declarations, and behavior that contained a bit of steam. Whew!
>>Source: Free copy via Booksprout 4-21-24: I volunteered to leave a review of my thoughts and opinions of this work. No artificial interference, interpretation, or intelligence was used and the errors are exclusively mine. I own it, warts and all. [Prologue + 56 Chapters + Epilogue: 5-stars]
>>Trope: [1] a Bennet dies [2] Collins married a Bennet sister instead of Charlotte.
>>Timeline: After Bingley’s ball, the Netherfield party skulked off to London leaving behind a devastated heart. Post the proposal of marriage by Mr. Collins which, by the way, did not go well.
OMG! ICNPID: I read straight through. My eyes were crossed by the time I finished. Julie Cooper always grabs me with her twists on the canon story. I shouldn’t be surprised, but I always am. This twist was amazing. The London gossip sheets were replete with the actions of the ton and anyone who was anyone often found their initials inserted within the text. Nothing escaped the eyes and ears of the Scribblers. That was the Regency title for the reporters. Of course, there were the unscrupulous reporters, who reported trash, outright lies, and salacious gossip, for the sole purpose of selling newspapers. However, among the tabbies and gossip mongers was a ray of light writing under the moniker, Mr. Pennywithers. He was a valet for a gentleman and had a gentle way of writing full of wit and never cruel. I adored his writing as it always made me smile. He became somewhat of a cult hero to the other valets and those in the serving class. However, Mr. Pennywithers, as stated, was not his real name. He also had a secret that very few knew. I adored this character. His columns made me smile, laugh out loud, and tear up all at the same time.
“Single is not a status; it is a word that describes a person who is strong enough to live and enjoy life without depending on others.” –pixie
Fitzwilliam Darcy: that poor boy was a mess as Julie Cooper presented a new twist to his backstory. I felt sorry for him. His disappointment over his family was acute. Our resident villain was only too quick to pour salt into his wound. That boy and his mother were bad to their core.
Colonel Fitzwilliam: Oh, that poor man. I loved and adored him. I approve of the choice for his HEA. Well done, I loved that part. I was so glad to see that come about.
Sarah Bentley: I adored this new character. She was so cool and the perfect foil to round out the characters. She closely resembled Elizabeth Bennet in spirit and courage. She helped stand in the gap between Elizabeth and the villains. I liked her and her HEA was so sweet. Her references to flowers were hilarious.
This was a very different Georgiana. With the support of Elizabeth and friends, Georgiana’s courage rose in the face of intimidation. Goodness knows she needed it.
Julie Cooper took Austen’s P&P storyline and tossed it in the air. It was shaken and stirred a few times and, when the dust settled, an adorable story was revealed. This was a strange twist in many ways, yet shocking as our characters were taken in another direction. I enjoyed this twist and the swoon-worthy comments and declarations. Oh, my. Fan points.
Villains:
Mr. Collins: after Bennet’s death, he acted just as you would suppose he would. Elizabeth had refused him and was tossed from the house after Mr. Bennet’s death. This sent her on a life-altering journey that put her in the company of Fitzwilliam Darcy earlier than the canon account.
Wickham: He was his mother’s son and that acorn did not fall far from the tree. Just saying his name makes me want to spit and rinse out my mouth. He tormented and tortured Fitzwilliam Darcy for most of his young life. However, as hard as he tried, the SBRB could not break the Pemberley heir.
Lady Catherine: This harridan will never receive the ‘Mother of the Year’ award. OMG! I have never felt so sorry for Anne de Bourgh as I did when I read about her backstory with her mother’s idea of punishment. Yeah, she was a villain to a degree but not a villain to the core. This poor child was pitiful.
August 20, 2024
When one picks up a title from Julie Cooper, one can anticipate a delightful deviation from the original with dramatic and sometimes dark overtones, complex characters, and the sort of relationships, romantic or otherwise that make readers struggle to set the book aside for the mundane matters of life.
The Bachelor Mr. Darcy brings together Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice characters in a wholly new way. A country house party at Pemberley has the Darcys hosting a blend of familiar and new original characters. This is no ordinary house party. Darcy’s sister, Georgiana, and his aunt, Lady Matlock determine to do some matchmaking for their taciturn relation so there are far more ladies than gentleman. This calls for a contest among the ladies in a Bachelor game-style situation.
But, wait, there’s more… Darcy is the butt of malicious gossip so Georgiana is determined to find a way to counteract this. Without realizing the full truth about Elizabeth, thinking she’s a relative of the popular and witty, Mr. Pennywithers the society columnist, Georgie has Elizabeth and Jane come as Mr. Pennywithers’ eyes to see Darcy and share their judgment about his character so the truth can be written.
This leads to scheming, tangled secrets, rivalries, and some lovely slow burn romances. When will Elizabeth’s secret identity be outed? What ladies stoop to sabotage? There is a beautiful portrayal of a wounded war veteran whose wounds aren’t all visible. Humor balances out the drama as the various plot threads get untangled and lead to a strong finish.
The book has shared narration among the principle cast- mostly Darcy and Lizzy, but I felt from the beginning that Elizabeth is the central figure. She is her usual spunky self in many ways, but she has been weighed down with great sorrow and guilt and it takes a friendship with Darcy who shares her caution about relationships to set her on a better path. I appreciated that the conflict for this pair was their own past demons and exterior troubles so they were facing it all together.
All in all, The Bachelor Mr. Darcy was absolutely fabulous, touched all the emotions, and had some great blending of character and plot development. Sweet historical romance fans of stories set in Jane Austen’s Regency world must slip this one onto the reading pile.
I rec'd a print finished copy from Quills and Quartos to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at The Quill Ink 8.29.24.
The Bachelor Mr. Darcy brings together Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice characters in a wholly new way. A country house party at Pemberley has the Darcys hosting a blend of familiar and new original characters. This is no ordinary house party. Darcy’s sister, Georgiana, and his aunt, Lady Matlock determine to do some matchmaking for their taciturn relation so there are far more ladies than gentleman. This calls for a contest among the ladies in a Bachelor game-style situation.
But, wait, there’s more… Darcy is the butt of malicious gossip so Georgiana is determined to find a way to counteract this. Without realizing the full truth about Elizabeth, thinking she’s a relative of the popular and witty, Mr. Pennywithers the society columnist, Georgie has Elizabeth and Jane come as Mr. Pennywithers’ eyes to see Darcy and share their judgment about his character so the truth can be written.
This leads to scheming, tangled secrets, rivalries, and some lovely slow burn romances. When will Elizabeth’s secret identity be outed? What ladies stoop to sabotage? There is a beautiful portrayal of a wounded war veteran whose wounds aren’t all visible. Humor balances out the drama as the various plot threads get untangled and lead to a strong finish.
The book has shared narration among the principle cast- mostly Darcy and Lizzy, but I felt from the beginning that Elizabeth is the central figure. She is her usual spunky self in many ways, but she has been weighed down with great sorrow and guilt and it takes a friendship with Darcy who shares her caution about relationships to set her on a better path. I appreciated that the conflict for this pair was their own past demons and exterior troubles so they were facing it all together.
All in all, The Bachelor Mr. Darcy was absolutely fabulous, touched all the emotions, and had some great blending of character and plot development. Sweet historical romance fans of stories set in Jane Austen’s Regency world must slip this one onto the reading pile.
I rec'd a print finished copy from Quills and Quartos to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at The Quill Ink 8.29.24.
May 12, 2024
When reading the book description, my first reaction was one of hesitancy. I wasn’t sure that this latest book by Ms Cooper would ‘spark joy’ within me. Was I ever wrong to doubt Ms. Cooper’s abilities to weave a unique variation that captured my imagination. Elizabeth’s role as a gossip columnist, ‘Mr. Pennywithers Reports’, is more plausible than I imagined! And speaking of gossip, Mr. Darcy has become an object of some unsavory on-dits in other newspapers.
“Still, it had taken effort to find her smile again, to look forward instead of back.” (quote from the book)
Obviously, this variation has taken a different path than canon. Elizabeth has lost her father and her home which drives her need for independence. She and Jane are both living with the Gardiners in London. The guilt that drives Elizabeth is heartbreaking. However, she is not the only one dealing with guilt, heartbreak or difficulties.
“So here he stood at Pemberley’s entrance, trying not to grind his teeth, as young ladies spilt out of the carriage.” (quote from the book)
When Mr. Darcy suggests a small house party to take Georgiana’s mind off of her own troubles, little does he realize what he has set in motion. He knows he needs to find a wife and his relatives are more than willing to help. So, as they all descend on Pemberley, Mr. Darcy has to stay one step ahead of them.
“Nevertheless, anyone who visits Pemberley and experiences its hospitality could easily see it is not a hotbed of lawlessness, with clouds of corruption swirling, but instead the very pinnacle of respectability. All you would have to do is observe what is about you, and provide Mr. Pennywithers with your point of view.” (quote from the book)
So pack your trunk and join the house party. There’s a touch of ‘Cinderella’ and the ‘ugly’ stepsisters along with ‘Beauty and the Beast’ within this tale. Competitions, drama and humour abound, and more than one romance takes place.
I highly recommend this latest offering from the fertile mind of Ms. Cooper.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
December 11, 2024
5++ stars. What a perfect book! Elizabeth is exactly as Austen intended and Darcy, a bit sweeter. Looking forward to many rereads.
August 14, 2024
Rating 3,5 Stars
It was good but in my opinion Ms Cooper certainly has better works.
(Spoilers included)
To me it seemed as if Darcy had no say in his own home. His relations just didn't care that it is Pemberley, alas The Darcy's Estate. I know it is the plot and all, but normally when you receive an invitation, you as the invited don't get to invite other several people without asking the Master. Even a Lord and Lady should know this? But doesn't matter anyway, Darcy let them play Host and Hostess.
Miss Bingley and Miss Anne de Bourgh joined forces and they were up to no good. (For real, though!) At the end I hoped for a real punishment for those two, yes Caroline may have been punished a bit but Anne? She helped Caroline with her schemes and even she herself had ideas but nothing happened to her. That was disappointing.
This was a slap of reality. Nothing ever happens to those with money. Or at least it takes years and years. But to those without money, they suffer.
Don't we read novels to escape reality for a while?
As for Elizabeth, the poor Dear..
Darcy and Elizabeth's love story was cute though, even if what they mostly talked of was the sad stuff. But, oh my Darcy's speeches were Swoon worthy!
I must also say, the book was as always well written. Even if I personally do not think it her best work, she certainly knows how to write in Regency with Swoon worthy Darcy's.
-Clean Content
-Novel length
-A little Anxiety and Hair pulling about few of the characters decisions.
It was good but in my opinion Ms Cooper certainly has better works.
(Spoilers included)
To me it seemed as if Darcy had no say in his own home. His relations just didn't care that it is Pemberley, alas The Darcy's Estate. I know it is the plot and all, but normally when you receive an invitation, you as the invited don't get to invite other several people without asking the Master. Even a Lord and Lady should know this? But doesn't matter anyway, Darcy let them play Host and Hostess.
Miss Bingley and Miss Anne de Bourgh joined forces and they were up to no good. (For real, though!) At the end I hoped for a real punishment for those two, yes Caroline may have been punished a bit but Anne? She helped Caroline with her schemes and even she herself had ideas but nothing happened to her. That was disappointing.
This was a slap of reality. Nothing ever happens to those with money. Or at least it takes years and years. But to those without money, they suffer.
Don't we read novels to escape reality for a while?
As for Elizabeth, the poor Dear..
Darcy and Elizabeth's love story was cute though, even if what they mostly talked of was the sad stuff. But, oh my Darcy's speeches were Swoon worthy!
I must also say, the book was as always well written. Even if I personally do not think it her best work, she certainly knows how to write in Regency with Swoon worthy Darcy's.
-Clean Content
-Novel length
-A little Anxiety and Hair pulling about few of the characters decisions.
October 7, 2024
Status: Read October 1-7, 2024 via audible edition
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Library Notes:
The Bachelor Mr Darcy
by Julie Cooper, Arthur Rowan (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 10 pages
Published August 13, 2024 by Quills & Quartos Publishing
ASIN: B0DD1YQ14C
Here I am, surrounded by heiresses without so much as a murmur from my heart.
MR FITZWILLIAM DARCY'S FAMILY has decided it is time for him to select a wife and marry. To that end, Pemberley is suddenly inundated with eligible young ladies vying for his time and attention. Disinterested in the notion, Mr Darcy’s attention is on his myriad other troubles. He has a London journalist whose attention has suddenly has turned towards him with unsavoury and false rumours, and lives with a wounded Colonel Fitzwilliam whose sanity has been called into question. To add to that he finds himself surprisingly and suddenly captivated by one fine-eyed young lady who is visiting Pemberley.
ELIZABETH BENNET HAS NO INTEREST IN MARRYING—ever. Hard life lessons have taught her that she can only rely upon herself. To that end, she earns a tidy sum as the secret author of a popular gossip column in a London paper, Mr Pennywithers Reports—and Mr Pennywithers has been tasked with learning the truth about the enigmatic Fitzwilliam Darcy. An unexpected invitation to go to Pemberley provides her with just the opportunity she needs…provided she can keep her true identity concealed.
IT'S NO BED OF ROSES—one bachelor is up against surprising alliances, a bevy of mean girls, rumours, gossip and a multitude of hidden agendas. Can it all be untangled in time for true love to prevail or will scandal defeat them all?
Listening Length: 9 hours and 57 minutes
The Bachelor Mr Darcy: A Variation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice
by Julie Cooper
ebook, Advance Review Copy, 364 pages
Expected publication June 3, 2024 by Quills & Quartos Publishing
[ kindle doc ] [ edition not in GR database ]
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Library Notes:
The Bachelor Mr Darcy
by Julie Cooper, Arthur Rowan (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 10 pages
Published August 13, 2024 by Quills & Quartos Publishing
ASIN: B0DD1YQ14C
Here I am, surrounded by heiresses without so much as a murmur from my heart.
MR FITZWILLIAM DARCY'S FAMILY has decided it is time for him to select a wife and marry. To that end, Pemberley is suddenly inundated with eligible young ladies vying for his time and attention. Disinterested in the notion, Mr Darcy’s attention is on his myriad other troubles. He has a London journalist whose attention has suddenly has turned towards him with unsavoury and false rumours, and lives with a wounded Colonel Fitzwilliam whose sanity has been called into question. To add to that he finds himself surprisingly and suddenly captivated by one fine-eyed young lady who is visiting Pemberley.
ELIZABETH BENNET HAS NO INTEREST IN MARRYING—ever. Hard life lessons have taught her that she can only rely upon herself. To that end, she earns a tidy sum as the secret author of a popular gossip column in a London paper, Mr Pennywithers Reports—and Mr Pennywithers has been tasked with learning the truth about the enigmatic Fitzwilliam Darcy. An unexpected invitation to go to Pemberley provides her with just the opportunity she needs…provided she can keep her true identity concealed.
IT'S NO BED OF ROSES—one bachelor is up against surprising alliances, a bevy of mean girls, rumours, gossip and a multitude of hidden agendas. Can it all be untangled in time for true love to prevail or will scandal defeat them all?
Listening Length: 9 hours and 57 minutes
The Bachelor Mr Darcy: A Variation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice
by Julie Cooper
ebook, Advance Review Copy, 364 pages
Expected publication June 3, 2024 by Quills & Quartos Publishing
[ kindle doc ] [ edition not in GR database ]
06/03/2024 Review:
4 Goodreads Stars - Auto-buy JAFF Author!
I always look forward to and enjoy Julie Cooper’s books and this was no different. The use of former original character, Sarah Bentley, was an excellent bonus to another wonderful variation. I would recommend just adding this author to your auto-buy list.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2024
I started this book expecting the usual fare in a Fan Fiction but did I get a surprise. This book tells the story of loss, grief, understanding, and love. It dies so in a manner that keeps you reading. This book is one that will stay with me. It is an excellent read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2024
The reason I like this Pride and Prejudice variation so much is that it is so different. I felt a need to know how things would turn out, being that there's a new element involved, that of a gossip columnist, Mr. Pennywithers. It begins with Wickham attempting to elope with Georgiana, but this time at Pemberley, not Ramsgate. Elizabeth and Jane Bennet are living with their aunt and uncle in London, because Mr. Bennet is dead, and Mr. Collins is now master of Longbourn. Much to do with that is revealed as the story continues. There is intrigue here, for certain, and uncertainty about whether Mr. Darcy can ever accept Elizabeth Bennet for who she really is. But it's an enjoyable journey to that point in the story. This is a story in which Caroline Bingley is somewhat monstrous, competing with Lady Catherine for who is worse. Most of the story takes place at a house party at Pemberley. Highly recommended novel by one of my favorite JAFF authors, suitable for anyone who loves P&P variations.
June 5, 2024
Fabulous. Absolutely delightful. This book was so well done. I loved the development of Elizabeth & Darcy’s relationship. Elizabeth’s article about Mr Fitzwilliam moved me to tears.
August 11, 2024
A great plot!
An enjoyable and romantic story. A total deviation from Canon, the road to knowing each other is lovely and the representation of some of the known characters and the new ones is entertaining and original.
An enjoyable and romantic story. A total deviation from Canon, the road to knowing each other is lovely and the representation of some of the known characters and the new ones is entertaining and original.
January 20, 2026
Elizabeth as “Whistledown”!??!? Well, Pennywithers but whatevs! This book was exactly what I needed during this 4 week break in Bridgerton season 3.
I loved every single minute of this book. So much backstory for both of ODC who *shocker* actually communicate with each other as they slowly reveal their truths to each other.
And we get Sarah Bentley - my fav non-canon lady from “A Match Made at Matlock”. Please more Sarah!!!
KU loan but then flipped this to a purchase.
PS. The audiobook with Arthur Rowen is amazing. I just wish there was a song for him in this story.
I loved every single minute of this book. So much backstory for both of ODC who *shocker* actually communicate with each other as they slowly reveal their truths to each other.
And we get Sarah Bentley - my fav non-canon lady from “A Match Made at Matlock”. Please more Sarah!!!
KU loan but then flipped this to a purchase.
PS. The audiobook with Arthur Rowen is amazing. I just wish there was a song for him in this story.
June 21, 2025
2024: I loved this. This was one of my favorites of 2024.
2025 update: I loved the audiobook
2025 update: I loved the audiobook
July 6, 2024
Acceptance and love
4.5* rounded up
My goodness, Ms Cooper writes the most wonderful and passionate scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth without stepping into R-treated territory! This story takes the characters from canon and places them in different circumstances and events. As other reviewers have indicated, this is a well-written and low-angst book. It was a pleasure to read.
4.5* rounded up
My goodness, Ms Cooper writes the most wonderful and passionate scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth without stepping into R-treated territory! This story takes the characters from canon and places them in different circumstances and events. As other reviewers have indicated, this is a well-written and low-angst book. It was a pleasure to read.
June 7, 2024
Excellent journey
Well written with a unique storyline. As villains go, Wickham's perfidy was dealt with early, Lady Catherine was kept for the most part in the background, her daughter, Anne, surprisingly more active, but easily influenced by the stronger personality of Caroline Bingley in the form of faux friendship. Elizabeth's journey involved coming to terms with her father's unexpected death and finding her HEA with Darcy. I will say, Georgiana was left dangling a bit after playing a supportive secondary position with a one sentence summary. Enjoy!
Well written with a unique storyline. As villains go, Wickham's perfidy was dealt with early, Lady Catherine was kept for the most part in the background, her daughter, Anne, surprisingly more active, but easily influenced by the stronger personality of Caroline Bingley in the form of faux friendship. Elizabeth's journey involved coming to terms with her father's unexpected death and finding her HEA with Darcy. I will say, Georgiana was left dangling a bit after playing a supportive secondary position with a one sentence summary. Enjoy!
April 28, 2024
I was immediately engrossed in this variation from the first paragraph. I was admittedly a little worried about Elizabeth's character after reading the description, but soon breathed a sigh of relief after a few chapters. It was also nice to see a Darcy that wasn't so misunderstood (except in the gossip rags).
There are also some lines that are gems that made me spit out my tea as I read (you have been warned), like this one: "...An elephant with extraordinarily large and exposed mammary glands." And here is where the house party begins. Game on. You would think that Mark Burnett had a hand in hosting it.
The backstories of some of the characters are brutal - this story has more depth than most adaptations - as I said I think would stand well on its own merits if it finds a wider audience. A story of heartbreak, betrayals, trauma, heroics large and small and of course love.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There are also some lines that are gems that made me spit out my tea as I read (you have been warned), like this one: "...An elephant with extraordinarily large and exposed mammary glands." And here is where the house party begins. Game on. You would think that Mark Burnett had a hand in hosting it.
The backstories of some of the characters are brutal - this story has more depth than most adaptations - as I said I think would stand well on its own merits if it finds a wider audience. A story of heartbreak, betrayals, trauma, heroics large and small and of course love.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 3, 2024
Julie Cooper is one of my favorites in the Austenesque space, particularly when it comes to unique Pride and Prejudice variations that always have interesting plots that take our favorite characters on very different journeys but still deliver the sweet ending for Darcy and Elizabeth that Austen fans crave! In her latest novel, The Bachelor Mr. Darcy, Cooper imagines what it would be like if Darcy and Elizabeth's meeting occurred under very difference circumstances when each has undergone a series of very painful personal tragedies that have resulted in both being very guarded with their hearts.
After the unexpected death of her father and choices that put her at odds with her mother, Elizabeth finds herself living in London with the Gardiners and her sister Jane. Elizabeth is determined never to have the agency of her life be controlled by others again and in an effort to secure her independence has taken on a secret identity, an anonymous valet known only as Mr. Pennywithers, whose columns about society's goings on have become a favorite amongst the ton.
Meanwhile, Darcy, who has lived a reserved and aloof bachelorhood, has become a source of rumor and curiosity amongst the ton and its gossip columns. Georgiana in an effort to protect the brother who has always looked out for her attempts to champion him by enlisting the service of one Mr. Pennywithers and soon enough Elizabeth and Jane find themselves amongst an intimate party hosted at Pemberley. There, Elizabeth finds herself up close and very personal with Pemberley's master and she finds that he is nothing like she imagined and soon fears that her secret identity and more importantly her heart could very well be at risk.
Cooper really delivers a beautiful character study in this book as we get to see Darcy and Elizabeth open up to one another and to appreciate each other's strengths and vulnerabilities without the misunderstanding and prejudices of the classic. It was such a delight to walk the journey of their hearts with them and to watch our favorite couple fall in love, despite Elizabeth's initial reservations about the differences in their station. Of course, Elizabeth's secret weighs heavily on her and threatens to destroy what she has unexpectedly found with Darcy.
I absolutely also loved the stories that Cooper developed for some of our favorite secondary characters, particularly Colonel Fitzwilliam and Jane Bennet. Colonel Fitzwiliam's traumatic journey after a near death experience in the war, leaves him scarred, isolated and a shell of the man we all loved in the original story. However, watching the fearless way that Miss Sarah Bentley wades into the storm of his anger and sees the beauty in the man that he is today, was so moving. Darcy has always been a favorite of mine but Colonel Fitzwilliam's straightforward yet no less passionate way of declaring his love definitely gives his cousin some fierce competition!
While there is definitely drama and plenty of scheming from Miss Bingley and Miss De Bourgh that present challenges for Darcy and Elizabeth, this story is full of tenderness, sweetness and passion. Cooper has once again delivered a book that you can cozy up with and read over a weekend, so definitely go and grab this one now!
After the unexpected death of her father and choices that put her at odds with her mother, Elizabeth finds herself living in London with the Gardiners and her sister Jane. Elizabeth is determined never to have the agency of her life be controlled by others again and in an effort to secure her independence has taken on a secret identity, an anonymous valet known only as Mr. Pennywithers, whose columns about society's goings on have become a favorite amongst the ton.
Meanwhile, Darcy, who has lived a reserved and aloof bachelorhood, has become a source of rumor and curiosity amongst the ton and its gossip columns. Georgiana in an effort to protect the brother who has always looked out for her attempts to champion him by enlisting the service of one Mr. Pennywithers and soon enough Elizabeth and Jane find themselves amongst an intimate party hosted at Pemberley. There, Elizabeth finds herself up close and very personal with Pemberley's master and she finds that he is nothing like she imagined and soon fears that her secret identity and more importantly her heart could very well be at risk.
Cooper really delivers a beautiful character study in this book as we get to see Darcy and Elizabeth open up to one another and to appreciate each other's strengths and vulnerabilities without the misunderstanding and prejudices of the classic. It was such a delight to walk the journey of their hearts with them and to watch our favorite couple fall in love, despite Elizabeth's initial reservations about the differences in their station. Of course, Elizabeth's secret weighs heavily on her and threatens to destroy what she has unexpectedly found with Darcy.
I absolutely also loved the stories that Cooper developed for some of our favorite secondary characters, particularly Colonel Fitzwilliam and Jane Bennet. Colonel Fitzwiliam's traumatic journey after a near death experience in the war, leaves him scarred, isolated and a shell of the man we all loved in the original story. However, watching the fearless way that Miss Sarah Bentley wades into the storm of his anger and sees the beauty in the man that he is today, was so moving. Darcy has always been a favorite of mine but Colonel Fitzwilliam's straightforward yet no less passionate way of declaring his love definitely gives his cousin some fierce competition!
While there is definitely drama and plenty of scheming from Miss Bingley and Miss De Bourgh that present challenges for Darcy and Elizabeth, this story is full of tenderness, sweetness and passion. Cooper has once again delivered a book that you can cozy up with and read over a weekend, so definitely go and grab this one now!
June 10, 2024
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
After the death of Mr Bennet, Elizabeth finds herself cast out of Longbourn by Mr Collins and Mrs Bennet.
Fortunately, her sister Jane goes with her and they settle with their Aunt and Uncle Gardner in Cheapside.
Elizabeth is desperate to be independent and not burden the Gardners. Teaching doesn't work out but another option presents itself.
Elizabeth finds herself writing a Society gossip column called Mr Pennywither's Reports. In the persona of an aging valet, she combines gossipy stories with wit, humour and a gentleness not found in more vituperative publications.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is an honourable young man, burdened with inheriting the vast Pemberley estate in his early twenties. He is responsible for his much younger sister, Georgiana.
He also must shelter his Cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam, who has been brought low by the physical and mental impacts of battle.
Decent, hardworking and appearing rather dull. It is a shock to suddenly find himself the focus of the London gossips and not in a good way. Referred to as Derbyshire’s Dastard, he is painted as a mysterious batchelor, having illicit affairs and hiding illegal activities.
To add to his joys, his illustrious family are pushing for him to choose a bride and beget an heir.
A house party is arranged at Pemberley and suitable ladies of Society are invited.
Elizabeth Bennet is invited to the gathering and hopes to learn the truth behind the gossip.
Mr Pennywither's identity must remain secret, but Elizabeth hopes to set the record straight about Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Unfortunately, despite a great write up, Darcy is furious at the invasion of privacy.
Things get complicated when Darcy and Elizabeth are close, but he is determined to sue Mr Pennywither into oblivion!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
After the death of Mr Bennet, Elizabeth finds herself cast out of Longbourn by Mr Collins and Mrs Bennet.
Fortunately, her sister Jane goes with her and they settle with their Aunt and Uncle Gardner in Cheapside.
Elizabeth is desperate to be independent and not burden the Gardners. Teaching doesn't work out but another option presents itself.
Elizabeth finds herself writing a Society gossip column called Mr Pennywither's Reports. In the persona of an aging valet, she combines gossipy stories with wit, humour and a gentleness not found in more vituperative publications.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is an honourable young man, burdened with inheriting the vast Pemberley estate in his early twenties. He is responsible for his much younger sister, Georgiana.
He also must shelter his Cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam, who has been brought low by the physical and mental impacts of battle.
Decent, hardworking and appearing rather dull. It is a shock to suddenly find himself the focus of the London gossips and not in a good way. Referred to as Derbyshire’s Dastard, he is painted as a mysterious batchelor, having illicit affairs and hiding illegal activities.
To add to his joys, his illustrious family are pushing for him to choose a bride and beget an heir.
A house party is arranged at Pemberley and suitable ladies of Society are invited.
Elizabeth Bennet is invited to the gathering and hopes to learn the truth behind the gossip.
Mr Pennywither's identity must remain secret, but Elizabeth hopes to set the record straight about Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Unfortunately, despite a great write up, Darcy is furious at the invasion of privacy.
Things get complicated when Darcy and Elizabeth are close, but he is determined to sue Mr Pennywither into oblivion!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 14, 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 surrounded by heiresses without so much as a murmur from his heart. His family has decided it is time for him to select a wife and marry. To that end, Pemberley is suddenly inundated with eligible young ladies vying for his time and attention. Disinterested in the notion, Mr Darcy’s attention is on his myriad other troubles. He has a London journalist whose attention has suddenly has turned towards him with unsavoury and false rumours, and lives with a wounded Colonel Fitzwilliam whose sanity has been called into question. To add to that he finds himself surprisingly and suddenly captivated by one fine-eyed young lady who is visiting Pemberley. Elizabeth Bennett has no interest in ever marrying. Hard life lessons have taught her that she can only rely upon herself. To that end, she earns a tidy sum as the secret author of a popular gossip column in a London paper, Mr Pennywithers Reports, and Mr Pennywithers has been tasked with learning the truth about the enigmatic Fitzwilliam Darcy. An unexpected invitation to go to Pemberley provides her with just the opportunity she needs, provided she can keep her true identity concealed. It’s no bed of roses, one bachelor is up against surprising alliances, a bevy of mean girls, rumours, gossip and a multitude of hidden agendas. Can it all be untangled in time for true love to prevail or will scandal defeat them all? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. 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 surrounded by heiresses without so much as a murmur from his heart. His family has decided it is time for him to select a wife and marry. To that end, Pemberley is suddenly inundated with eligible young ladies vying for his time and attention. Disinterested in the notion, Mr Darcy’s attention is on his myriad other troubles. He has a London journalist whose attention has suddenly has turned towards him with unsavoury and false rumours, and lives with a wounded Colonel Fitzwilliam whose sanity has been called into question. To add to that he finds himself surprisingly and suddenly captivated by one fine-eyed young lady who is visiting Pemberley. Elizabeth Bennett has no interest in ever marrying. Hard life lessons have taught her that she can only rely upon herself. To that end, she earns a tidy sum as the secret author of a popular gossip column in a London paper, Mr Pennywithers Reports, and Mr Pennywithers has been tasked with learning the truth about the enigmatic Fitzwilliam Darcy. An unexpected invitation to go to Pemberley provides her with just the opportunity she needs, provided she can keep her true identity concealed. It’s no bed of roses, one bachelor is up against surprising alliances, a bevy of mean girls, rumours, gossip and a multitude of hidden agendas. Can it all be untangled in time for true love to prevail or will scandal defeat them all? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. I highly recommend to everyone.
July 17, 2025
I liked the story ... but it's one I probably wouldn't have tried because of the title/cover. I really don't think Mr. Darcy being a 'bachelor' was title/cover worthy. This definitely seemed to take a page from Bridgerton ... Although "Mr.Pennywithers" takes a higher road that some of the others sharing the secrets of the everyone in London, the set up is similar, as are the consequences in the end.
While set in the same time/location, with the same characters (mostly), this diverges from the original much earlier than other JAFF. There's no Bingley renting Netherfield, none of the usual meetings. Mr. Bennet has passed on after an accident. Collins has come to Longbourn (wanted to marry Jane, but Jane and Lizzie left, he married Mary). Richard returned home from the war injured. Wickham is mentioned but doesn't really come into play too much (he did try to elope with Georgiana earlier but G divulged plans to Darcy and he stopped them). There are a few new faces ... namely Sarah Bentley (a friend of Georgiana's from school, she also knows Elizabeth).
3rd person/past tense. The POV shifts around to many of the characters ... Georgiana, Darcy, Elizabeth, Anne, Caroline ...
Some back stories come up in conversation (former/different love interests for Jane/Lizzie, Mr. Bennet's death) ... they didn't quite connect for me. Some push to get the traditional dialog ("not handsome enough to tempt me" line).
Most of the story takes place at Pemberley. There are some "competitions" and games going on ... curricles (and a race) take place (I've just noticed curricles in several of my recent JAFF reads). Chess. Riddles and a scavenger hunt.
There's an epilogue that wraps up almost everyone's story.
Overall, I liked it ... but I'll always compare the "Pennywithers" storyline to Bridgerton/LadyWhistledown ...
While set in the same time/location, with the same characters (mostly), this diverges from the original much earlier than other JAFF. There's no Bingley renting Netherfield, none of the usual meetings. Mr. Bennet has passed on after an accident. Collins has come to Longbourn (wanted to marry Jane, but Jane and Lizzie left, he married Mary). Richard returned home from the war injured. Wickham is mentioned but doesn't really come into play too much (he did try to elope with Georgiana earlier but G divulged plans to Darcy and he stopped them). There are a few new faces ... namely Sarah Bentley (a friend of Georgiana's from school, she also knows Elizabeth).
3rd person/past tense. The POV shifts around to many of the characters ... Georgiana, Darcy, Elizabeth, Anne, Caroline ...
Some back stories come up in conversation (former/different love interests for Jane/Lizzie, Mr. Bennet's death) ... they didn't quite connect for me. Some push to get the traditional dialog ("not handsome enough to tempt me" line).
Most of the story takes place at Pemberley. There are some "competitions" and games going on ... curricles (and a race) take place (I've just noticed curricles in several of my recent JAFF reads). Chess. Riddles and a scavenger hunt.
There's an epilogue that wraps up almost everyone's story.
Overall, I liked it ... but I'll always compare the "Pennywithers" storyline to Bridgerton/LadyWhistledown ...
June 3, 2024
How did it all go awry? "His simple idea for a house party, a moment's impulse to distract his sister from her awful, failed romance, had blossomed into an all-out assault upon his bachelorhood." Darcy spends much of his time struggling to limit the impact of his family's schemes. It's like herding cats.
Of course, Lady Catherine wants her daughter Anne to win him, but the Matlocks have brought their own candidate. It's funny that Matlock's candidate had Darcy wishing to run for the hills more than the others, including Caroline Bingley.
When he isn't trying to keep his world from being turned into a circus, he has time to get to know the friend of his sister's friend, Elizabeth. His attraction begins immediately after his infamous insult. This time, however, he has no doubt that she has heard him. Her quick forgiveness plants a seed of admiration deep into his heart.
Elizabeth continues an inner debate of Darcy's character throughout much of the book. But there was no acrymony. Whenever she thinks his pride will direct his actions, he surprises her with his open-mindedness. He's not as prideful as her prejudice expects him to believe.
A slow, sweet romance develops beneath the machinations of the other contestants and their supporters attempt to undermine one another. Darcy's kindness helps Elizabeth heal from old wounds. Her lively mind and ease of company banish his loneliness, hopefully forever.
For me, this is another win for Ms. Cooper. Her writing engages the mind and heart, is clean, and moves the story along at a nice pace. The Bachelor Mr Darcy is going into my "Reread" Collection.
NOTE: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Of course, Lady Catherine wants her daughter Anne to win him, but the Matlocks have brought their own candidate. It's funny that Matlock's candidate had Darcy wishing to run for the hills more than the others, including Caroline Bingley.
When he isn't trying to keep his world from being turned into a circus, he has time to get to know the friend of his sister's friend, Elizabeth. His attraction begins immediately after his infamous insult. This time, however, he has no doubt that she has heard him. Her quick forgiveness plants a seed of admiration deep into his heart.
Elizabeth continues an inner debate of Darcy's character throughout much of the book. But there was no acrymony. Whenever she thinks his pride will direct his actions, he surprises her with his open-mindedness. He's not as prideful as her prejudice expects him to believe.
A slow, sweet romance develops beneath the machinations of the other contestants and their supporters attempt to undermine one another. Darcy's kindness helps Elizabeth heal from old wounds. Her lively mind and ease of company banish his loneliness, hopefully forever.
For me, this is another win for Ms. Cooper. Her writing engages the mind and heart, is clean, and moves the story along at a nice pace. The Bachelor Mr Darcy is going into my "Reread" Collection.
NOTE: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2024
What a fun story! Although there are less-than-completely-happy backstories for some characters that set up the premise, this is generally a lighthearted plot. It evolves around the planning for and events at a Pemberley house party, where Mr. Darcy finds himself surrounded by a bevy of single young ladies, most of whom consider themselves in competition to become his Mrs. Darcy.
Elizabeth and Jane now live with the Gardiners, their father having died and Mr. Collins now having taken over Longbourn. Chafing at being a financial burden to their aunt and uncle, Elizabeth taught at a women's seminary for a while and now earns money writing as "Mr. Pennywithers," a popular gossip columnist for a London newspaper. Her alter ego is purported to be a gentleman's valet in a high society family; Elizabeth's sources of information tend to be the servants.
Darcy suggests that Georgiana host a house party, hoping to boost her confidence after her devastating experience with Wickham, and he tells her to invite the Matlocks and Bingleys, since she knows them all well. With his permission to include some friends, Georgiana invites Sarah Bentley, hoping that she and her brother might suit. Coincidentally, Sarah is one of Elizabeth's former students.
Georgiana also enlists Sarah's aid to help her contact Mr. Pennywithers and ask him to write favorably about Darcy, whose name is constantly being besmirched by many of the other gossip writers lately. Elizabeth and Jane, therefore, are invited to Pemberley to meet Mr. Darcy themselves and "report" their observations to Mr. Pennywithers, who is known, generally, for sharing positive reports rather than those that degrade people.
It's not long before Lady Matlock starts to take charge of Georgiana's party. As Darcy has indicated his willingness to start seeking a wife, Lord and Lady Matlock want him to consider Viscount Ridley's sister by marriage, Miss Rose Lushington. Then Lady Catherine, upon learning what's transpiring at Pemberley, shows up with her daughter, unannounced and uninvited, to crash the party.
Thus, Miss Bingley, Miss Lushington, Miss Bentley, Miss de Bourgh, Miss Bennet, and Miss Elizabeth - all single, eligible ladies - are residing at Pemberley at once. There are other guests, but it's these women who engage in a series of competitive activities, with the winner of each competition allotted some time alone with the Bachelor, Mr. Darcy.
Ms. Cooper's writing flows beautifully, as always, and the plot pacing is perfect. As ridiculous as the story sounds in this Regency setting, she sells it convincingly with the appropriate level of humor for the circumstances. Darcy and Elizabeth have many encounters alone with each other (regardless of the outcomes of the various competitions) with a steamy build of heat between them. Colonel Fitzwilliam gets a different characterization here, adding another dimension to the story.
Highly recommend!
Content is clean.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elizabeth and Jane now live with the Gardiners, their father having died and Mr. Collins now having taken over Longbourn. Chafing at being a financial burden to their aunt and uncle, Elizabeth taught at a women's seminary for a while and now earns money writing as "Mr. Pennywithers," a popular gossip columnist for a London newspaper. Her alter ego is purported to be a gentleman's valet in a high society family; Elizabeth's sources of information tend to be the servants.
Darcy suggests that Georgiana host a house party, hoping to boost her confidence after her devastating experience with Wickham, and he tells her to invite the Matlocks and Bingleys, since she knows them all well. With his permission to include some friends, Georgiana invites Sarah Bentley, hoping that she and her brother might suit. Coincidentally, Sarah is one of Elizabeth's former students.
Georgiana also enlists Sarah's aid to help her contact Mr. Pennywithers and ask him to write favorably about Darcy, whose name is constantly being besmirched by many of the other gossip writers lately. Elizabeth and Jane, therefore, are invited to Pemberley to meet Mr. Darcy themselves and "report" their observations to Mr. Pennywithers, who is known, generally, for sharing positive reports rather than those that degrade people.
It's not long before Lady Matlock starts to take charge of Georgiana's party. As Darcy has indicated his willingness to start seeking a wife, Lord and Lady Matlock want him to consider Viscount Ridley's sister by marriage, Miss Rose Lushington. Then Lady Catherine, upon learning what's transpiring at Pemberley, shows up with her daughter, unannounced and uninvited, to crash the party.
Thus, Miss Bingley, Miss Lushington, Miss Bentley, Miss de Bourgh, Miss Bennet, and Miss Elizabeth - all single, eligible ladies - are residing at Pemberley at once. There are other guests, but it's these women who engage in a series of competitive activities, with the winner of each competition allotted some time alone with the Bachelor, Mr. Darcy.
Ms. Cooper's writing flows beautifully, as always, and the plot pacing is perfect. As ridiculous as the story sounds in this Regency setting, she sells it convincingly with the appropriate level of humor for the circumstances. Darcy and Elizabeth have many encounters alone with each other (regardless of the outcomes of the various competitions) with a steamy build of heat between them. Colonel Fitzwilliam gets a different characterization here, adding another dimension to the story.
Highly recommend!
Content is clean.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 23, 2025
I liked the alternate first meeting premise of this story, but a lot of things bugged me by the end of it. For one, why are there so many chapters? Some end halfway through a conversation and then continue it in the next chapter. More substantively, the soap opera and romance cliches are strong with this one; it's got the male characters rescuing and refusing to let others carry their woman, cheesy dialogue like "I would never doubt you" included in a couple's second conversation with each other, a woman brooding in the rain and then needing a rescue party to find her, "he said this mean thing and so I absolutely can't stay here one second longer." Wickham is ramrodded into the conclusion in a way that makes no sense. Jane and Elizabeth have absolutely insane backstories just so Elizabeth has stuff to confide in Darcy so they can bond over trauma. There are some great author-created side characters who fade as the story goes on, while Caroline reprises her JAFF role as a vindictive bitch way out of proportion to anything that happens in the original book. The writing is good at points, but corny at others. If you have a palate for the more ridiculous and cheesy JAFF stories, this might be for you, but it was a bit too much for my tastes.
June 6, 2024
This is a cute meet for our dear couple. Circumstances are different than in canon for both Elizabeth and Darcy. A house party can do many things for many people? Will it be all fun and games for all?
How do Darcy and Elizabeth handle meeting one another? Do they get along with one another, or do sparks fly? How do they fall in love? Will family involvement be wanted or be over the top with expectations? Will the families' or friends' interferences be welcome or be a hindrance? Will all be happy with their decisions?
The supporting characters are awesome. Some are from canon, and others are new. I loved Colonel Fitzwilliam and his love interest. Will Jane and Bingley be a couple in this version? Some canon characters are more than they seem.
I read this in a day with several cups of hot tea by my side. If you are looking for a variation of Pride and Prejudice, this is it. Overall, it was a fun read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
How do Darcy and Elizabeth handle meeting one another? Do they get along with one another, or do sparks fly? How do they fall in love? Will family involvement be wanted or be over the top with expectations? Will the families' or friends' interferences be welcome or be a hindrance? Will all be happy with their decisions?
The supporting characters are awesome. Some are from canon, and others are new. I loved Colonel Fitzwilliam and his love interest. Will Jane and Bingley be a couple in this version? Some canon characters are more than they seem.
I read this in a day with several cups of hot tea by my side. If you are looking for a variation of Pride and Prejudice, this is it. Overall, it was a fun read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 13, 2024
Power of the words.
Salute to Austen, Elizabeth has discovered the power of words. Her purpose was to gain her independence by the compensation received as an author/reporter, yet at the same time, there was always the hope that her ability in words would do some good and right some wrong in the world. Until it did not.
Two people, both bore the secrets of their past, of their reluctance to face who they really were, have come together and suddenly, lightning bolting thunder showers everywhere, and something’s definitely in the air. Lust maybe? Love actually?
Story after story, event after event. Fast rhythm dominated most of the time, resulting in this fabulous page-turner.
Love the side story of Sarah and Richard. Love the epiphany downed on Richard that things were not only about him. Love the message that we all tried to be oblivion of things that hurt, ignorance could be a blessing, or a failing.
Highly recommended.
Salute to Austen, Elizabeth has discovered the power of words. Her purpose was to gain her independence by the compensation received as an author/reporter, yet at the same time, there was always the hope that her ability in words would do some good and right some wrong in the world. Until it did not.
Two people, both bore the secrets of their past, of their reluctance to face who they really were, have come together and suddenly, lightning bolting thunder showers everywhere, and something’s definitely in the air. Lust maybe? Love actually?
Story after story, event after event. Fast rhythm dominated most of the time, resulting in this fabulous page-turner.
Love the side story of Sarah and Richard. Love the epiphany downed on Richard that things were not only about him. Love the message that we all tried to be oblivion of things that hurt, ignorance could be a blessing, or a failing.
Highly recommended.
August 19, 2024
Thank you Julie Cooper for being one of my absolute favourite JAFF authors and smashing it out the park with The Bachelor Mr Darcy! Arthur Rowan too for his fabulous narration. I hadn’t read this one first so I went in first time with the audiobook and loved every minute of this wonderful story. I felt this Darcy and Lizzy had similar personalities and relationship ark to the ones in The Perfect Gentlemen (which is an all time favourite). Lizzy’s quirky and independent nature and Darcy just can’t help falling head over heels for her, doing just about anything to have her in his life forever. I loved the side characters, the Colonel with his very changed and grumpy demeanour and his wonderful HEA. I loved Sarah and Georgiana and their meddling. You made me cry and laugh and sigh and scream. All the best emotions. I will be relistening and wearing this audiobook out just like all your others 😊
August 20, 2024
Darcy falls for Elizabeth as she sees only the possibility of a friend
What do you get when you combine a talented gossip writer with someone out to smudge Darcy's name and his sister who wants to save him? You get a house party where ladies start competing for some uninterrupted time with Darcy. Games, hunts, spiked lemonade, Lady Catherine and more all have their turn at causing mischief. Elizabeth and Darcy have some wonderful page time together. I loved the romance between Col Fitzwilliam and Sarah (friend of Georgiana and Elizabeth). I also listened to the audiobook and Arthur Rowan took this fun story up another notch. I hope that he will consider doing more JAFF audiobooks in the future. Thank you Julie Cooper for another wonderful story.
What do you get when you combine a talented gossip writer with someone out to smudge Darcy's name and his sister who wants to save him? You get a house party where ladies start competing for some uninterrupted time with Darcy. Games, hunts, spiked lemonade, Lady Catherine and more all have their turn at causing mischief. Elizabeth and Darcy have some wonderful page time together. I loved the romance between Col Fitzwilliam and Sarah (friend of Georgiana and Elizabeth). I also listened to the audiobook and Arthur Rowan took this fun story up another notch. I hope that he will consider doing more JAFF audiobooks in the future. Thank you Julie Cooper for another wonderful story.
June 26, 2024
A well-written book that holds the reader's attention
This was a wonderful read. The writing was extremely good - literally poetic at times, often philosophical, and possessing a rare depth, all without being heavy handed. The characters interacted delightfully, the plotline kept me interested, and the grammar was far, far better than I normally see in this genre.
I'm so used to mentally correcting what I read that I kept starting to do that, only to blink and realize that there was nothing to correct. There were probably only three typos in the whole book.
This was well worth purchasing.
This was a wonderful read. The writing was extremely good - literally poetic at times, often philosophical, and possessing a rare depth, all without being heavy handed. The characters interacted delightfully, the plotline kept me interested, and the grammar was far, far better than I normally see in this genre.
I'm so used to mentally correcting what I read that I kept starting to do that, only to blink and realize that there was nothing to correct. There were probably only three typos in the whole book.
This was well worth purchasing.
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