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A Shared History: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
The idea of her paled in comparison to the actuality of her, and his love for the woman he had always held dear was reaffirmed. ELIZABETH BENNET HAS A one fateful spring in Rosings Park in Kent, she met and fell in love with Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy. Their connexion was nearly instantaneous and sweet but ended abruptly and disastrously. Elizabeth was left heartbroken and nursing a grudge that she kept hidden from everyone, even her dearest sister Jane.
THREE YEARS LATER, Jane is planning her wedding to Mr Charles Bingley of Netherfield Park. To Elizabeth’s surprise—and dismay—she learns that Mr Darcy is due to attend the wedding in Hertfordshire. With her opinion of Darcy catastrophically low, Elizabeth is ready to spar with him at every turn during their awkward reunion.
MR DARCY ARRIVES AT LONGBOURN wondering if it would prove a second chance for the love with the dark haired beauty he had not stopped thinking of for three years. Alas, with Elizabeth clearly still feeling the sting of his rejection, and worse, on the verge of accepting the offer of another man, it seems all might just be lost. But might her outward animosity be reflective of the remnants of an underlying romantic connexion? Swords will certainly be drawn between the two, but could sparks fly too?
A SHARED HISTORY is a variation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and includes hidden love, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romance, a love triangle, and above all a happily ever after for Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet.
THREE YEARS LATER, Jane is planning her wedding to Mr Charles Bingley of Netherfield Park. To Elizabeth’s surprise—and dismay—she learns that Mr Darcy is due to attend the wedding in Hertfordshire. With her opinion of Darcy catastrophically low, Elizabeth is ready to spar with him at every turn during their awkward reunion.
MR DARCY ARRIVES AT LONGBOURN wondering if it would prove a second chance for the love with the dark haired beauty he had not stopped thinking of for three years. Alas, with Elizabeth clearly still feeling the sting of his rejection, and worse, on the verge of accepting the offer of another man, it seems all might just be lost. But might her outward animosity be reflective of the remnants of an underlying romantic connexion? Swords will certainly be drawn between the two, but could sparks fly too?
A SHARED HISTORY is a variation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and includes hidden love, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romance, a love triangle, and above all a happily ever after for Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet.
- GenresHistorical
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 6, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
January 14, 2025
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
Such an impressive book by a talented new JAFF author! Major changes in the timing of certain events result in a Pride and Prejudice story that has a few striking similarities to Persuasion.
Things start with preparations for Jane Bennet's wedding to Charles Bingley, who leased Netherfield and wooed Miss Bennet without Darcy's presence. When Elizabeth learns who is to be Charles's best man, her reaction is panicked; she had met and loved Darcy three years earlier when she was at Hunsford visiting Charlotte, who was already to married Mr. Collins.
Flashback scenes show that Darcy was at Rosings at the same time. Unbeknownst to anyone but the two of them, he fell head over heels in love with Elizabeth. He pursued her in a whirlwind romance up to and including a marriage proposal. However, the morning after she accepted, he abruptly broke things off with her, shattering her heart.
His arrival for the social gatherings surrounding Bingley's wedding is the first time Elizabeth will see him since that awful day. She resolves to avoid him as much as possible so she doesn't put a damper on her sister's happiness in the days leading up to her wedding.
The POV switches alternately to Darcy, and it's apparent that he's long regretted having let Elizabeth go. He's aware that Bingley is marrying into her family and intends to seize the opportunity to apologize and hopefully get a second chance with the only woman he can imagine loving. It's difficult to find moments to speak with her alone, though, and she either ignores him or is dismissive and argumentative when they're in company.
Even worse, Mr. Henry Royce, nephew of Sir William Lucas, is annoyingly attentive to Elizabeth. It's generally known that he's proposed to her several times and that she's refused to take him seriously because he's lacked the means to support a family. Now, however, he's the recent recipient of an unexpected windfall--an inheritance that makes him an extremely viable marriage prospect. Unlike Darcy, he's outgoing and sociable, and it's challenging for Darcy to watch how comfortable the two are together.
Ms. Sheffield writes beautifully. The flashbacks are particularly effective, providing a drip-drip of past details to explain Elizabeth's hurt and anger, and thus her resultant unromantic approach to marriage. Her frustration with herself at her renewed attraction to a man she refuses to trust again is palpable, creating a dynamic push and pull between her and Darcy.
Some of Elizabeth's and Darcy's introspection struck me as repetitive, though not as excessively so as many other well-regarded JAFF stories. It may be true in real life, but it leads me to skimming passages in a novel.
Lots of steamy chemistry here with no bedroom scenes.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Such an impressive book by a talented new JAFF author! Major changes in the timing of certain events result in a Pride and Prejudice story that has a few striking similarities to Persuasion.
Things start with preparations for Jane Bennet's wedding to Charles Bingley, who leased Netherfield and wooed Miss Bennet without Darcy's presence. When Elizabeth learns who is to be Charles's best man, her reaction is panicked; she had met and loved Darcy three years earlier when she was at Hunsford visiting Charlotte, who was already to married Mr. Collins.
Flashback scenes show that Darcy was at Rosings at the same time. Unbeknownst to anyone but the two of them, he fell head over heels in love with Elizabeth. He pursued her in a whirlwind romance up to and including a marriage proposal. However, the morning after she accepted, he abruptly broke things off with her, shattering her heart.
His arrival for the social gatherings surrounding Bingley's wedding is the first time Elizabeth will see him since that awful day. She resolves to avoid him as much as possible so she doesn't put a damper on her sister's happiness in the days leading up to her wedding.
The POV switches alternately to Darcy, and it's apparent that he's long regretted having let Elizabeth go. He's aware that Bingley is marrying into her family and intends to seize the opportunity to apologize and hopefully get a second chance with the only woman he can imagine loving. It's difficult to find moments to speak with her alone, though, and she either ignores him or is dismissive and argumentative when they're in company.
Even worse, Mr. Henry Royce, nephew of Sir William Lucas, is annoyingly attentive to Elizabeth. It's generally known that he's proposed to her several times and that she's refused to take him seriously because he's lacked the means to support a family. Now, however, he's the recent recipient of an unexpected windfall--an inheritance that makes him an extremely viable marriage prospect. Unlike Darcy, he's outgoing and sociable, and it's challenging for Darcy to watch how comfortable the two are together.
Ms. Sheffield writes beautifully. The flashbacks are particularly effective, providing a drip-drip of past details to explain Elizabeth's hurt and anger, and thus her resultant unromantic approach to marriage. Her frustration with herself at her renewed attraction to a man she refuses to trust again is palpable, creating a dynamic push and pull between her and Darcy.
Some of Elizabeth's and Darcy's introspection struck me as repetitive, though not as excessively so as many other well-regarded JAFF stories. It may be true in real life, but it leads me to skimming passages in a novel.
Lots of steamy chemistry here with no bedroom scenes.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 30, 2025
The author's story description gives us a good wrap up of this story's premise. 1810 begins with us in Kent and then three years later Darcy comes to Herefordshire to stand up for Bingley at his wedding to Jane. There are some flashbacks throughout the story.
Some reviews relate that they see hints of Persuasion in the story line. Darcy, in this story is even more harsh than in canon as the couple fall in love and seem headed for marriage when he rejects her on the basis of all those problems: family being the primary one.
So Elizabeth is heart broken and bitter and angry and states when she meets with him three years later that she cannot trust him. On top of that she has another suitor, who has proposed more than once and now has the means to support a wife.
There (again as in Persuasion) is a letter which adds much to straightening out why Darcy acted as he did and how wrong he realizes he was.
We still have some angst in a moment when Darcy walks away, thinking he will only have memories for the rest of his life, due to Elizabeth saying she will not now accept his proposal.
Well done first story by this author.
Some reviews relate that they see hints of Persuasion in the story line. Darcy, in this story is even more harsh than in canon as the couple fall in love and seem headed for marriage when he rejects her on the basis of all those problems: family being the primary one.
So Elizabeth is heart broken and bitter and angry and states when she meets with him three years later that she cannot trust him. On top of that she has another suitor, who has proposed more than once and now has the means to support a wife.
There (again as in Persuasion) is a letter which adds much to straightening out why Darcy acted as he did and how wrong he realizes he was.
We still have some angst in a moment when Darcy walks away, thinking he will only have memories for the rest of his life, due to Elizabeth saying she will not now accept his proposal.
Well done first story by this author.
December 16, 2024
“No one, not even Jane, knew how much his presence pained Elizabeth.” (quote from the book)
This was an interesting and new take on our dear couple. What if the timeline of Pride & Prejudice is altered and certain events lead Elizabeth to visit Charlotte Collins in Kent earlier, where she meets Mr. Darcy? As the book description states, “Their connexion was nearly instantaneous and sweet but ended abruptly and disastrously. Elizabeth was left heartbroken and nursing a grudge that she kept hidden from everyone, even her dearest sister Jane.”
“In truth, she felt a connexion between their souls, and could not imagine spending her life with anyone less worthy…” (quote from the book)
With shades of ‘Persuasion’, Elizabeth still feels hurt and betrayed by her first real love. So much so that she has never spoken to anyone about it. So how does she handle being back in the presence of Mr. Darcy? Between flashbacks to their time in Kent and the present, Elizabeth becomes more brittle. Even though she tries to contain her reactions to him, things don’t always work out the way she wishes. Her pride, wit and emotions get the best of her. There was one dinner that ended poorly for her. I wanted to slide under the table myself! Badly done, Elizabeth. Badly done indeed!
“She was his reckoning, the force that humbled him and taught him the failures of his ways. For that, he owed her everything.” (quote from the book)
As others have stated, we don’t learn Mr. Darcy’s side of the story until much later in the book. But when we do, we feel his pain, his regret and his deep and abiding love for Elizabeth. Having another man interested in her is not helping either.
This a well written debut novel by Ms. Sheffield. I will admit though to not being a complete fan of an overly stubborn Elizabeth, and in this story, it was just a tad too close to that for me. I thoroughly enjoyed the family dynamics of the Bennet family and some of the unique twists to the story.
I highly recommend this delightful debut by Ms. Sheffield and look forward to reading future stories.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
January 6, 2025
Very promising start for a new author.
I always enjoy seeing a new author introduced to the Pride and Prejudice variation genre, and Abigail Sheffield doesn’t disappoint with A Shared History. There’s an echo of Austen’s Persuasion in this novel, but here, it’s the heroine who is forsaken rather than the hero.
This is a ‘second-chance’ romance, full of tension and emotion—one I couldn’t stop reading once I started. It is also a ‘meet younger’ trope, as it follows Elizabeth and Darcy through their ‘shared history’—a dual POV that flashes back and forth through two timelines: past and present when they first fell in love and then, three years later, when they awkwardly meet again for Jane and Bingley’s wedding.
Elizabeth’s portrayal feels true to canon, maintaining her wit and impertinence, but also carrying some real hurt. And Darcy? He’s everything you want him to be: flawed, reserved, but deep down full of love. There’s also a potential rival for Darcy which, for me, is always a trigger for an element of angst, keeping me on edge until Elizabeth makes up her mind.
This is a really well-written debut. The prose and dialogue are believable, which kept me turning the pages with eager anticipation. It’s not a fluffy read, but it’s not overly heavy either. If you’re moved by a heartfelt letter, there’s one in this book that shouldn’t be missed, providing an emotional climax to the plot.
I definitely recommend A Shared History, and I’ll be keeping an eye out for whatever this talented author writes next. Well done.
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.
I always enjoy seeing a new author introduced to the Pride and Prejudice variation genre, and Abigail Sheffield doesn’t disappoint with A Shared History. There’s an echo of Austen’s Persuasion in this novel, but here, it’s the heroine who is forsaken rather than the hero.
This is a ‘second-chance’ romance, full of tension and emotion—one I couldn’t stop reading once I started. It is also a ‘meet younger’ trope, as it follows Elizabeth and Darcy through their ‘shared history’—a dual POV that flashes back and forth through two timelines: past and present when they first fell in love and then, three years later, when they awkwardly meet again for Jane and Bingley’s wedding.
Elizabeth’s portrayal feels true to canon, maintaining her wit and impertinence, but also carrying some real hurt. And Darcy? He’s everything you want him to be: flawed, reserved, but deep down full of love. There’s also a potential rival for Darcy which, for me, is always a trigger for an element of angst, keeping me on edge until Elizabeth makes up her mind.
This is a really well-written debut. The prose and dialogue are believable, which kept me turning the pages with eager anticipation. It’s not a fluffy read, but it’s not overly heavy either. If you’re moved by a heartfelt letter, there’s one in this book that shouldn’t be missed, providing an emotional climax to the plot.
I definitely recommend A Shared History, and I’ll be keeping an eye out for whatever this talented author writes next. Well done.
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.
January 8, 2025
“Have enough courage to trust love one more time and always one more time.” –Maya Angelou
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: tame, per the author
>>Angst Level: high due to lover’s angst, trust issues, crash and burn emotions. I was gnashing my teeth and ready to pull out my hair. This was brutal with Elizabeth’s emotions all over the place and Darcy running hot and cold. How could or would she ever trust him again?
>>Source: I received a free copy via Booksprout [11-14-24] and I volunteered to leave a review. 40-chapters: This was a new author for me.
>>Trope: as per the book blurb: ‘hidden love, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romance, a love triangle, and above all a happily ever after for Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet.’ I believe that covers it.
>>Timeline: 1810 and 1813 with flashbacks between the past events and current angst.
“For there to be betrayal, there would have to have been trust first.” –Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games
Kent: The domain of Lady Catherine de Bourgh and considered the garden of England. Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy fell in love. Until, that is, he reneged and walked away leaving a devastated Elizabeth wondering what the heck happened. I was wondering the same thing. It would be later that Elizabeth would discover what happened to change his mind.
The love Elizabeth felt for Darcy soon turned to anger and bitterness. What was she to do? She picked up the pieces of her shattered heart and went home to sulk and stew in her anger and frustrations. Three years later, Jane fell in love with Charles Bingley and they would shortly marry. Unfortunately, Bingley asked his good friend to stand up with him. Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy was now staying at Netherfield. Suddenly, he and Elizabeth were thrust into the social maelstrom surrounding the preparations for the wedding. How on earth would they manage to be in each other’s company without others noticing their reluctance to be near each other? Our author managed to bring about a detente between our characters that eventually began to thaw the ice around Elizabeth’s heart. I felt she took too long to forgive him; however, trust issues should not be overlooked. Adding to Elizabeth’s confusion, was a gentleman courting her and her expectations of a proposal.
“The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them.” –Ernest Hemingway
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: tame, per the author
>>Angst Level: high due to lover’s angst, trust issues, crash and burn emotions. I was gnashing my teeth and ready to pull out my hair. This was brutal with Elizabeth’s emotions all over the place and Darcy running hot and cold. How could or would she ever trust him again?
>>Source: I received a free copy via Booksprout [11-14-24] and I volunteered to leave a review. 40-chapters: This was a new author for me.
>>Trope: as per the book blurb: ‘hidden love, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romance, a love triangle, and above all a happily ever after for Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet.’ I believe that covers it.
>>Timeline: 1810 and 1813 with flashbacks between the past events and current angst.
“For there to be betrayal, there would have to have been trust first.” –Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games
Kent: The domain of Lady Catherine de Bourgh and considered the garden of England. Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy fell in love. Until, that is, he reneged and walked away leaving a devastated Elizabeth wondering what the heck happened. I was wondering the same thing. It would be later that Elizabeth would discover what happened to change his mind.
The love Elizabeth felt for Darcy soon turned to anger and bitterness. What was she to do? She picked up the pieces of her shattered heart and went home to sulk and stew in her anger and frustrations. Three years later, Jane fell in love with Charles Bingley and they would shortly marry. Unfortunately, Bingley asked his good friend to stand up with him. Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy was now staying at Netherfield. Suddenly, he and Elizabeth were thrust into the social maelstrom surrounding the preparations for the wedding. How on earth would they manage to be in each other’s company without others noticing their reluctance to be near each other? Our author managed to bring about a detente between our characters that eventually began to thaw the ice around Elizabeth’s heart. I felt she took too long to forgive him; however, trust issues should not be overlooked. Adding to Elizabeth’s confusion, was a gentleman courting her and her expectations of a proposal.
“The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them.” –Ernest Hemingway
December 6, 2024
4+* out of 5
Given how well-written this book is, it is surprising that this is the author's debut. The heart-rending tale weaves themes from my favourite Austen novels, Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion. This is not a story that skims the surface of our protagonists; in their respective chapters, the motivations behind their behaviour and actions are elucidated. This insight fully immersed me in their joys and pains. The conversation creates a palpable tension and passion between Darcy and Elizabeth.
Like Sam H, I remained uncertain about Darcy until 56% into the book. But upon gaining his perspective, my heart melted. He is one of the swooniest Darcys that I've read.
I found this story angsty due to my uncertainty about ODC's happy ending, but it was well worth the wet handkerchief. There is a thoroughly happy ending, and I hope that Ms. Sheffield has more stories to share in the future.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Given how well-written this book is, it is surprising that this is the author's debut. The heart-rending tale weaves themes from my favourite Austen novels, Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion. This is not a story that skims the surface of our protagonists; in their respective chapters, the motivations behind their behaviour and actions are elucidated. This insight fully immersed me in their joys and pains. The conversation creates a palpable tension and passion between Darcy and Elizabeth.
Like Sam H, I remained uncertain about Darcy until 56% into the book. But upon gaining his perspective, my heart melted. He is one of the swooniest Darcys that I've read.
I found this story angsty due to my uncertainty about ODC's happy ending, but it was well worth the wet handkerchief. There is a thoroughly happy ending, and I hope that Ms. Sheffield has more stories to share in the future.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 11, 2025
An excellent new entrant in the genre - 4.5*
Hats off to Abigail Sheffield - this is an excellent debut into a busy genre and stands well above the majority.
The plot is not one I have encountered before and was very well handled. It was an interesting idea and the author remained focused on the plot with minimal distractions. I always appreciate it when an author has the courage to exclude the characters who are not necessary to their plot and avoids the dire call to drop the other characters in. The focus of this book is almost exclusively Elizabeth and Darcy, mostly Elizabeth for the first 50%, with only glancing contacts from other characters.
The use of language is good and there is plenty of showing as well as telling which is also much appreciated.
This would be a 4.25* from me overall. There was a rather unnecessary distraction with Mary Bennet towards the end which made me take my eye of the main plot a little as I kept waiting to see if anything was going to come of it. Similarly I couldn't see the need for Elizabeth to be concerned about the future security of her family bearing in mind they were all gathered for Jane's wedding to Bingley. He would have been more than able to make the necessary financial provision for Mrs Bennet and any unmarried daughters.
These were minor irritations and I definitely recommend this to fans of Elizabeth and Darcy. The last few chapters are beautiful and leave the reader with a suitably dreamy look in the eye.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4* = "I really liked it" (Goodreads rating)
Hats off to Abigail Sheffield - this is an excellent debut into a busy genre and stands well above the majority.
The plot is not one I have encountered before and was very well handled. It was an interesting idea and the author remained focused on the plot with minimal distractions. I always appreciate it when an author has the courage to exclude the characters who are not necessary to their plot and avoids the dire call to drop the other characters in. The focus of this book is almost exclusively Elizabeth and Darcy, mostly Elizabeth for the first 50%, with only glancing contacts from other characters.
The use of language is good and there is plenty of showing as well as telling which is also much appreciated.
This would be a 4.25* from me overall. There was a rather unnecessary distraction with Mary Bennet towards the end which made me take my eye of the main plot a little as I kept waiting to see if anything was going to come of it. Similarly I couldn't see the need for Elizabeth to be concerned about the future security of her family bearing in mind they were all gathered for Jane's wedding to Bingley. He would have been more than able to make the necessary financial provision for Mrs Bennet and any unmarried daughters.
These were minor irritations and I definitely recommend this to fans of Elizabeth and Darcy. The last few chapters are beautiful and leave the reader with a suitably dreamy look in the eye.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4* = "I really liked it" (Goodreads rating)
January 8, 2025
Three years ago Elizabeth visited her friend Charlotte in Kent. There she met the young and handsome Fitzwilliam Darcy. For both it was love at first sight. After a short, blissful time spent together their romance ended in disaster and Elizabeth returned home heartbroken.
Now, three years later, Elizabeth's sister Jane is about to marry Charles Bingley and his best man is none other than Fitzwilliam Darcy. Elizabeth is furious and loathes the site of the man who once broke her heart, therefore their reunion is quite awkward.
Fitzwilliam Darcy had not stopped thinking of Elizabeth these past three years, regretting their break. He hopes for her forgiveness and a second chance with her but she rejects him coldly and is even on the verge of accepting another man's offer.
Will there be a second chance for their love? Or were all past tender feelings evaporated long ago? And what about Elizabeth's new suitor?
The book was very well written by the author Abigail Sheffield. This book is her first one but I hope it is not the last because she created a lovely story that touched my heart. I really like her style of writing.
The book was created in a clever way, chapters with events three years prior alter with events of the present (1813). When all events of the past have been told the story continues only in the present. With this way of telling the story the past romance seems even more bitter-sweet.
Elizabeth's heartbreak was described in a very comprehensible way. I deeply felt with her, I even shared some tears with her. I could very well understand her heartbreak and her feelings for Darcy seeing him three years after their breakup. And I also understand her confusion when she realizes that she is, despite her fury, still attracted to Darcy. With this background it becomes clear why the journey to their second chance love (that’s certainly not a spoiler that they have their happily ever after at the end of the story ;-) ) was not a smooth one and why Elizabeth sometimes reacts in the way she reacts. I don't want to tell too much, but I’m sure when you read the book you will understand what I mean and why Elizabeth acted that way she did, even in regard to her new suitor.
Darcy on the other hand is constant in his affection. I like the way he tries to regain Elizabeth’s regard and her love. He is steadfast and takes her (rightful) fury very well. He is very persistent and thankfully in the end rewarded for that. I like his devotion and that he, despite all the rejection he faces, never ceases in trying to win Elizabeth’s love back. And I love that he offers her his heart and a way back to him even when he has no hope of being successful.
A side character I like very much in every story is Aunt Gardiner. I like her because she is sensible and like a mother to Elizabeth. And she often offers sound advice when Elizabeth does not know what to do. In this story Elizabeth also needs the advice of her aunt to finally understand her feelings. Thank you Aunt Gardiner for always being such a reliable support!
There are no villains in the story, what keeps ODC apart is the heartbreak after a former blissful relationship ended with a break. Because they both kept their former connection to themselves there are also no interferences from others, they need to sort out their feelings and their wishes all alone. This means that there is naturally much page time for ODC. There are some minor changes in some characters but because of that they characters act in a better way than in the original story.
If you would like to know if Elizabeth and Darcy fall in love a second time after their first blissful time together ended in disaster three years ago, you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Now, three years later, Elizabeth's sister Jane is about to marry Charles Bingley and his best man is none other than Fitzwilliam Darcy. Elizabeth is furious and loathes the site of the man who once broke her heart, therefore their reunion is quite awkward.
Fitzwilliam Darcy had not stopped thinking of Elizabeth these past three years, regretting their break. He hopes for her forgiveness and a second chance with her but she rejects him coldly and is even on the verge of accepting another man's offer.
Will there be a second chance for their love? Or were all past tender feelings evaporated long ago? And what about Elizabeth's new suitor?
The book was very well written by the author Abigail Sheffield. This book is her first one but I hope it is not the last because she created a lovely story that touched my heart. I really like her style of writing.
The book was created in a clever way, chapters with events three years prior alter with events of the present (1813). When all events of the past have been told the story continues only in the present. With this way of telling the story the past romance seems even more bitter-sweet.
Elizabeth's heartbreak was described in a very comprehensible way. I deeply felt with her, I even shared some tears with her. I could very well understand her heartbreak and her feelings for Darcy seeing him three years after their breakup. And I also understand her confusion when she realizes that she is, despite her fury, still attracted to Darcy. With this background it becomes clear why the journey to their second chance love (that’s certainly not a spoiler that they have their happily ever after at the end of the story ;-) ) was not a smooth one and why Elizabeth sometimes reacts in the way she reacts. I don't want to tell too much, but I’m sure when you read the book you will understand what I mean and why Elizabeth acted that way she did, even in regard to her new suitor.
Darcy on the other hand is constant in his affection. I like the way he tries to regain Elizabeth’s regard and her love. He is steadfast and takes her (rightful) fury very well. He is very persistent and thankfully in the end rewarded for that. I like his devotion and that he, despite all the rejection he faces, never ceases in trying to win Elizabeth’s love back. And I love that he offers her his heart and a way back to him even when he has no hope of being successful.
A side character I like very much in every story is Aunt Gardiner. I like her because she is sensible and like a mother to Elizabeth. And she often offers sound advice when Elizabeth does not know what to do. In this story Elizabeth also needs the advice of her aunt to finally understand her feelings. Thank you Aunt Gardiner for always being such a reliable support!
There are no villains in the story, what keeps ODC apart is the heartbreak after a former blissful relationship ended with a break. Because they both kept their former connection to themselves there are also no interferences from others, they need to sort out their feelings and their wishes all alone. This means that there is naturally much page time for ODC. There are some minor changes in some characters but because of that they characters act in a better way than in the original story.
If you would like to know if Elizabeth and Darcy fall in love a second time after their first blissful time together ended in disaster three years ago, you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2025
Beautiful
A very emotional and poignant variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Abigail Sheffield. I enjoyed it but have a handkerchief handy.
A very emotional and poignant variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Abigail Sheffield. I enjoyed it but have a handkerchief handy.
January 6, 2025
Flawless!
A perfect variation from Abigail Sheffield. This story has no dragons, Mages, twisting plot lines, evil villains, or gratuitous adult content. It doesn't need them. Instead we get what I love best from a PandP story...Darcy and Elizabeth. Every scene is devoted to their relationship and the challenges they face to reunite after a 3 year separation. How can he make amends. How can she forgive and trust him again. The dialogue is excellent. The emotions and angst is believable. And the romance will make you swoon. Loved this one...Highly recommend.
A perfect variation from Abigail Sheffield. This story has no dragons, Mages, twisting plot lines, evil villains, or gratuitous adult content. It doesn't need them. Instead we get what I love best from a PandP story...Darcy and Elizabeth. Every scene is devoted to their relationship and the challenges they face to reunite after a 3 year separation. How can he make amends. How can she forgive and trust him again. The dialogue is excellent. The emotions and angst is believable. And the romance will make you swoon. Loved this one...Highly recommend.
January 14, 2025
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, Darcy and Elizabeth meet about 3 years earlier than in canon. Charlotte is already married to Mr. Collins and Elizabeth is having her visit to Hunsford in this earlier timeline. Darcy and Elizabeth first meet at Rosings. They have the chance to get to know each other and fall in love early on.
3.5 rounded up. The book starts off going back and forth between the time Darcy and Elizabeth meet again for Jane and Bingley's wedding and the past where we learn about the failed romance of three years earlier and what has happened in their lives since that time. This was an interesting scenario and I liked the premise. The book is well written and has a really lovely story about love, duty, mistakes, change, growth and redemption. The characters were presented really well and true to their original characters. I enjoyed the story and was impressed with this new author. The only reason my rating isn't a little higher is the pace felt too slow for me causing me to get bored at times. I also didn't really feel a lot of chemistry in D&E's early encounters and didn't think what was presented justified the level of abiding love. Other than that, I have no complaints. I hope this writer continues to write and I would look forward to reading more of her books.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3.5 rounded up. The book starts off going back and forth between the time Darcy and Elizabeth meet again for Jane and Bingley's wedding and the past where we learn about the failed romance of three years earlier and what has happened in their lives since that time. This was an interesting scenario and I liked the premise. The book is well written and has a really lovely story about love, duty, mistakes, change, growth and redemption. The characters were presented really well and true to their original characters. I enjoyed the story and was impressed with this new author. The only reason my rating isn't a little higher is the pace felt too slow for me causing me to get bored at times. I also didn't really feel a lot of chemistry in D&E's early encounters and didn't think what was presented justified the level of abiding love. Other than that, I have no complaints. I hope this writer continues to write and I would look forward to reading more of her books.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2025
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
In 1810, Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy meet at Rosings Park in Kent and fall passionately in love. However, the romance comes to an abrupt and brutal end.
Heartbroken, Elizabeth struggles to recover whilst keeping her sadness a secret from her family. Grief is eventually replaced by anger and resentment.
Three years later, Elizabeth is shocked to find that Darcy is to be best man at her sister's wedding.
They are frequently thrust into company with each other, which both find uncomfortable. Elizabeth's behaviour ranges from cool to uncivil to incendiary!
While Darcy is trying very hard to redeem himself in her opinion. He also desperately hopes for a second chance.
This pride and prejudice variation switches between the events in Kent in 1810 and in Hertfordshire in 1813. This is handled well and despite knowing what is coming, the separation of the couple is agonising to read.
I love this variation and I look forward to reading Abigail Sheffield's next book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
In 1810, Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy meet at Rosings Park in Kent and fall passionately in love. However, the romance comes to an abrupt and brutal end.
Heartbroken, Elizabeth struggles to recover whilst keeping her sadness a secret from her family. Grief is eventually replaced by anger and resentment.
Three years later, Elizabeth is shocked to find that Darcy is to be best man at her sister's wedding.
They are frequently thrust into company with each other, which both find uncomfortable. Elizabeth's behaviour ranges from cool to uncivil to incendiary!
While Darcy is trying very hard to redeem himself in her opinion. He also desperately hopes for a second chance.
This pride and prejudice variation switches between the events in Kent in 1810 and in Hertfordshire in 1813. This is handled well and despite knowing what is coming, the separation of the couple is agonising to read.
I love this variation and I look forward to reading Abigail Sheffield's next book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 28, 2025
A scrambled timeline variation, which begins December 1, 1813, with Jane's impending marriage to Charles Bingley, who had first come to Netherfield that fall. The blurb tells us that Elizabeth met Darcy at Rosings three years earlier, in the spring of 1810.
The two had quickly grown close at Rosings and had nearly reached the point of proposal when Darcy inexplicably rejected her. Now, over three years later, he has come to Netherfield to stand up with Bingley at his wedding. Elizabeth feels a lot of anger and doesn't hesitate to insult him at every opportunity.
When a snowstorm traps the five Bennet sisters at Netherfield, the two get an opportunity to talk privately and come to terms with their past. At one point, Elizabeth gets melodramatic, then lets her attraction to Darcy take over, and then gets stupid. She's overwrought, with her mind warring between attraction and doubt. Her indecision is so convincing that I began to think this might be the first P&P variation to not have a happy ending. But it finally arrives.
A very good first effort from the author.
The two had quickly grown close at Rosings and had nearly reached the point of proposal when Darcy inexplicably rejected her. Now, over three years later, he has come to Netherfield to stand up with Bingley at his wedding. Elizabeth feels a lot of anger and doesn't hesitate to insult him at every opportunity.
When a snowstorm traps the five Bennet sisters at Netherfield, the two get an opportunity to talk privately and come to terms with their past. At one point, Elizabeth gets melodramatic, then lets her attraction to Darcy take over, and then gets stupid. She's overwrought, with her mind warring between attraction and doubt. Her indecision is so convincing that I began to think this might be the first P&P variation to not have a happy ending. But it finally arrives.
A very good first effort from the author.
March 13, 2025
Did not finish
I only got 15% into the book before I gave up. I found the timeline and dialogue tedious. I'm all for changing the storyline and some personality trait of characters to create the variation, but there was just too much askew to make it fit.
I only got 15% into the book before I gave up. I found the timeline and dialogue tedious. I'm all for changing the storyline and some personality trait of characters to create the variation, but there was just too much askew to make it fit.
January 12, 2025
My first Austen inspired read of 2025 is the debut novel from Abigail Sheffield and wow what a way to to kick of my P&P reads. Sheffield delivers a story that is filled with beautiful dialogue, tender moments and plenty of angst and heart break. She remains true to the core of what we love about our favorite pair, Darcy and Elizabeth, but the dimensions that she adds to the characters bring wonderful layers to their relationship.
In A Shared History, Sheffield reimagines Austen's original story by creating a world in which Darcy and Elizabeth meet when they are younger in Kent. Through a series of interactions and quiet scenes, Darcy and Elizabeth come to learn and appreciate each other. I enjoyed Sheffield's take on Elizabeth, who, while younger, is able to tamp down the temptation to judge Darcy on first impressions alone. Instead, we as readers get to enjoy watching her peel away the layers of this complex man. Sheffield also gives us the opportunity to be inside Darcy's mind as he reels from the onslaught of emotions and passion that he feels for this woman who he never saw coming. I also enjoyed getting to see these two flirt a bit and who doesn't love a good 'stuck in the rain' scene!
The story takes us in between two timelines, the one in Kent and the one in present day, when Darcy and Elizabeth are reunited for the upcoming wedding between Jane and Bingley. Unfortunately, there is now a chasm of pain and mistrust between them, made all the more painful for the reader because we know how much these two shared of themselves in Kent and the hopes that they once had for their future.
There is almost a Persuasion-like quality to this novel as Darcy and Elizabeth traverse the very painful emotional terrain of past mistakes and heartache to reclaim the friendship and hope for a potential future together that they once lost. Both have to learn some very hard lessons and Sheffield definitely makes you wonder whether or not they will be able to overcome it all. However, trust me when I saw, don't lose faith because this ending is well worth it!
I look forward to seeing what other stories Sheffield crafts and think this first book is one that any Austen lover will thoroughly enjoy!
In A Shared History, Sheffield reimagines Austen's original story by creating a world in which Darcy and Elizabeth meet when they are younger in Kent. Through a series of interactions and quiet scenes, Darcy and Elizabeth come to learn and appreciate each other. I enjoyed Sheffield's take on Elizabeth, who, while younger, is able to tamp down the temptation to judge Darcy on first impressions alone. Instead, we as readers get to enjoy watching her peel away the layers of this complex man. Sheffield also gives us the opportunity to be inside Darcy's mind as he reels from the onslaught of emotions and passion that he feels for this woman who he never saw coming. I also enjoyed getting to see these two flirt a bit and who doesn't love a good 'stuck in the rain' scene!
The story takes us in between two timelines, the one in Kent and the one in present day, when Darcy and Elizabeth are reunited for the upcoming wedding between Jane and Bingley. Unfortunately, there is now a chasm of pain and mistrust between them, made all the more painful for the reader because we know how much these two shared of themselves in Kent and the hopes that they once had for their future.
There is almost a Persuasion-like quality to this novel as Darcy and Elizabeth traverse the very painful emotional terrain of past mistakes and heartache to reclaim the friendship and hope for a potential future together that they once lost. Both have to learn some very hard lessons and Sheffield definitely makes you wonder whether or not they will be able to overcome it all. However, trust me when I saw, don't lose faith because this ending is well worth it!
I look forward to seeing what other stories Sheffield crafts and think this first book is one that any Austen lover will thoroughly enjoy!
February 9, 2025
Very nice
Elizabeth meets Darcy for the first time at Rosings Park, while she's visiting Charlotte Collins. They fall in love, but Darcy breaks her heart with concerns about her lack of connections and fortune, and the poor behavior of her relations. They part badly, and three years later reunite at Jane's wedding to Bingley. Elizabeth has spent the three years resenting Darcy and trying to move past her feelings for him. Darcy has spent the three years changing for the better, and he's resolved to take this opportunity to win Elizabeth back.
The premise is fresh and interesting. The romance is lovely. There are no real villains in this version, but there is a lot of melodrama. I almost thought that the story was going to be too depressing, but the positives outweigh the negative. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it.
Elizabeth meets Darcy for the first time at Rosings Park, while she's visiting Charlotte Collins. They fall in love, but Darcy breaks her heart with concerns about her lack of connections and fortune, and the poor behavior of her relations. They part badly, and three years later reunite at Jane's wedding to Bingley. Elizabeth has spent the three years resenting Darcy and trying to move past her feelings for him. Darcy has spent the three years changing for the better, and he's resolved to take this opportunity to win Elizabeth back.
The premise is fresh and interesting. The romance is lovely. There are no real villains in this version, but there is a lot of melodrama. I almost thought that the story was going to be too depressing, but the positives outweigh the negative. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it.
April 9, 2025
I would have given it 2.5
Please only read this book if you are prepared to labor through 90% full on angst, in order to arrive at the last 10% of the book for the non angst portion. I personally didn't think it was enough of a reward. Also, the turning point for our dear couple (really, only Elizabeth was required to change her mind), was not for any sufficient reason, in my view. In other words, what changed her mind was no big revelation, and I believe, made her a stupid, stubborn character. And I may be singular in this view, but I don't think your audience wants to read a book about an obtuse Elizabeth. It could just be me. I have a bad habit of needing to finish every book I start. I had to put it down WAY more often than usual because I didn't like the way the main character was behaving. If I was reviewing on the writing alone, I would have given it 5 stars. I do not recall seeing one error, and I appreciate that.
Please only read this book if you are prepared to labor through 90% full on angst, in order to arrive at the last 10% of the book for the non angst portion. I personally didn't think it was enough of a reward. Also, the turning point for our dear couple (really, only Elizabeth was required to change her mind), was not for any sufficient reason, in my view. In other words, what changed her mind was no big revelation, and I believe, made her a stupid, stubborn character. And I may be singular in this view, but I don't think your audience wants to read a book about an obtuse Elizabeth. It could just be me. I have a bad habit of needing to finish every book I start. I had to put it down WAY more often than usual because I didn't like the way the main character was behaving. If I was reviewing on the writing alone, I would have given it 5 stars. I do not recall seeing one error, and I appreciate that.
January 12, 2025
Elizabeth’s heart is broken by Darcy
Lizzy and Darcy fall in love but Darcy is part of the Tonne. He asks Lizzy to give up her family. He breaks up with her in a cold sort of way. Lizzy is hurt immensely. How can a HEA possibly happen?
Lots of angst. No villains here. Just two people and the people around her trying to find happiness. The Bennet parents are not helpful at all.
This was a good read.
Lizzy and Darcy fall in love but Darcy is part of the Tonne. He asks Lizzy to give up her family. He breaks up with her in a cold sort of way. Lizzy is hurt immensely. How can a HEA possibly happen?
Lots of angst. No villains here. Just two people and the people around her trying to find happiness. The Bennet parents are not helpful at all.
This was a good read.
January 10, 2025
The travails of young love, duty, abandonment, and regret
• Well-written
• Clean
• Moderate angst
• An emotional rollercoaster
• The flow, storyline, and character development kept me engaged.
Ms. Sheffield offers just enough description for the reader to understand the heightened emotions and tensions swirling between Darcy and Elizabeth. One reviewer on Amazon mentioned "lots of steamy chemistry" between the couple. For those Jaff readers looking for clean reads like me, "steamy" is a watchword that could make us skip over this book. However, this is a kisses-only book. Rated PG, possibly PG-13.
The reader gets plenty of page time with Darcy and Elizabeth. Like the switchbacks of a mountain highway, the reader is taken on a journey switching between young love, reeling with hurt and betrayal, tormented by regret, and back to young love, then starting over again. This is not a bad thing. It's realistic regarding the trials Elizabeth and Darcy have experienced.
Elizabeth struggles to guard her heart, terrified of having her heart broken again. In three years, she hasn't healed from Darcy's abandonment. Yet, her heart keeps pulling her toward Darcy.
For most of the book, I kept thinking, Darcy deal with her three years of hurt and broken trust. He finally got it, realizing that love does not always conquer all. He needed to rebuild her faith and trust in him before she could allow love to move her to give him another chance.
It's a good story delving into the tumultuous emotions of a love that is true but immature. It's a love that stands the test of time and the character growth of our hero. Darcy needed those three years to become a good husband.
I would give it 4.5 stars if I could. Stories I will re-read often get 5 stars. I will re-read this, but not as frequently as stories with a lower angst level. It's a personal preference and not a reflection of the author's writing.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
• Well-written
• Clean
• Moderate angst
• An emotional rollercoaster
• The flow, storyline, and character development kept me engaged.
Ms. Sheffield offers just enough description for the reader to understand the heightened emotions and tensions swirling between Darcy and Elizabeth. One reviewer on Amazon mentioned "lots of steamy chemistry" between the couple. For those Jaff readers looking for clean reads like me, "steamy" is a watchword that could make us skip over this book. However, this is a kisses-only book. Rated PG, possibly PG-13.
The reader gets plenty of page time with Darcy and Elizabeth. Like the switchbacks of a mountain highway, the reader is taken on a journey switching between young love, reeling with hurt and betrayal, tormented by regret, and back to young love, then starting over again. This is not a bad thing. It's realistic regarding the trials Elizabeth and Darcy have experienced.
Elizabeth struggles to guard her heart, terrified of having her heart broken again. In three years, she hasn't healed from Darcy's abandonment. Yet, her heart keeps pulling her toward Darcy.
For most of the book, I kept thinking, Darcy deal with her three years of hurt and broken trust. He finally got it, realizing that love does not always conquer all. He needed to rebuild her faith and trust in him before she could allow love to move her to give him another chance.
It's a good story delving into the tumultuous emotions of a love that is true but immature. It's a love that stands the test of time and the character growth of our hero. Darcy needed those three years to become a good husband.
I would give it 4.5 stars if I could. Stories I will re-read often get 5 stars. I will re-read this, but not as frequently as stories with a lower angst level. It's a personal preference and not a reflection of the author's writing.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 18, 2025
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. This story includes hidden love, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romance, a love triangle, and above all a happily ever after for Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. The idea of her paled in comparison to the actuality of her, and his love for the woman he had always held dear was reaffirmed.
Elizabeth Bennett has a secret, one fateful spring in Rosings Park in Kent, she met and fell in love with Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy. Their connexion was nearly instantaneous and sweet but ended abruptly and disastrously. Elizabeth was left heartbroken and nursing a grudge that she kept hidden from everyone, even her dearest sister Jane.
Three years later, Jane is planning her wedding to Mr Charles Bingley of Netherfield Park. To Elizabeth’s surprise and dismay, she learns that Mr Darcy is due to attend the wedding in Hertfordshire. With her opinion of Darcy catastrophically low, Elizabeth is ready to spar with him at every turn during their awkward reunion.
Mr Darcy arrives at Longbourn wondering if it would prove a second chance for the love with the dark haired beauty he had not stopped thinking of for three years. Alas, with Elizabeth clearly still feeling the sting of his rejection, and worse, on the verge of accepting the offer of another man, it seems all might just be lost, but might her outward animosity be reflective of the remnants of an underlying romantic connexion? Swords will certainly be drawn between the two, but could sparks fly too?
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. This story includes hidden love, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romance, a love triangle, and above all a happily ever after for Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. The idea of her paled in comparison to the actuality of her, and his love for the woman he had always held dear was reaffirmed.
Elizabeth Bennett has a secret, one fateful spring in Rosings Park in Kent, she met and fell in love with Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy. Their connexion was nearly instantaneous and sweet but ended abruptly and disastrously. Elizabeth was left heartbroken and nursing a grudge that she kept hidden from everyone, even her dearest sister Jane.
Three years later, Jane is planning her wedding to Mr Charles Bingley of Netherfield Park. To Elizabeth’s surprise and dismay, she learns that Mr Darcy is due to attend the wedding in Hertfordshire. With her opinion of Darcy catastrophically low, Elizabeth is ready to spar with him at every turn during their awkward reunion.
Mr Darcy arrives at Longbourn wondering if it would prove a second chance for the love with the dark haired beauty he had not stopped thinking of for three years. Alas, with Elizabeth clearly still feeling the sting of his rejection, and worse, on the verge of accepting the offer of another man, it seems all might just be lost, but might her outward animosity be reflective of the remnants of an underlying romantic connexion? Swords will certainly be drawn between the two, but could sparks fly too?
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.
December 5, 2024
What if Darcy and Elizabeth had a history before…
A peek through the young Darcy and Elizabeth. The puppy love between the two is absolutely adorable. I do wish there were more explanation to Darcy’s sudden overnight change of mind. He was so supportive in the evening the day before. Even with the terrible news sent to Rosings in the middle of the night, there must have been someone whispering or something happening to sway him and made him realise things would not work as he imagined.
Yet it was as in canon, a fine, stout love might weather through all this, instead of being scared away. And so we know it was as good that they did not persuade themselves together, better end things as they were than live the rest of their lives in regrets.
Not particularly buying the version of new Darcy. More sophisticated maybe, but not necessarily more mature and more lovable. I might be persuaded that Elizabeth could do better without him. She, on the other hand, must have learnt her lesson and made her judgement by herself. Are we not all required the opportunity to live and learn our lessons?
However, the interactions and conversations between ODC are delicious, combined with the happy atmosphere in the Bennet family, which makes reading the story such an enjoyment. Plus, always appreciate a Wickham-free plot.
HEA guaranteed.
A peek through the young Darcy and Elizabeth. The puppy love between the two is absolutely adorable. I do wish there were more explanation to Darcy’s sudden overnight change of mind. He was so supportive in the evening the day before. Even with the terrible news sent to Rosings in the middle of the night, there must have been someone whispering or something happening to sway him and made him realise things would not work as he imagined.
Yet it was as in canon, a fine, stout love might weather through all this, instead of being scared away. And so we know it was as good that they did not persuade themselves together, better end things as they were than live the rest of their lives in regrets.
Not particularly buying the version of new Darcy. More sophisticated maybe, but not necessarily more mature and more lovable. I might be persuaded that Elizabeth could do better without him. She, on the other hand, must have learnt her lesson and made her judgement by herself. Are we not all required the opportunity to live and learn our lessons?
However, the interactions and conversations between ODC are delicious, combined with the happy atmosphere in the Bennet family, which makes reading the story such an enjoyment. Plus, always appreciate a Wickham-free plot.
HEA guaranteed.
July 10, 2025
Pride and Prejudice with a less mature Persuasion plot
Overall a good, but IMO forgettable story that I felt neutral towards.
I felt like the falling in love part of ODC's story wasn't developed very well, but that's to be expected because only a handful of chapters was spent detailing Elizabeth and Darcy's previous history in Kent. In this book, Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth's feelings are more obviously expressed than Anne Elliot's and Capt. Wentworth's in Persuasion. Elizabeth is angry and resentful and acts in a bit of a imprudent manner sometimes, due to her negative emotions. It was obvious Darcy has deep regrets, as the reader was told every chapter how much he looked at Elizabeth. The pining and yearning wasn't as good as in Seasons of Waiting, or, once again, Persuasion, so if you want to read a book with a lot of longing between ODC I'd recommend those two more than A Shared History.
Overall a good, but IMO forgettable story that I felt neutral towards.
I felt like the falling in love part of ODC's story wasn't developed very well, but that's to be expected because only a handful of chapters was spent detailing Elizabeth and Darcy's previous history in Kent. In this book, Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth's feelings are more obviously expressed than Anne Elliot's and Capt. Wentworth's in Persuasion. Elizabeth is angry and resentful and acts in a bit of a imprudent manner sometimes, due to her negative emotions. It was obvious Darcy has deep regrets, as the reader was told every chapter how much he looked at Elizabeth. The pining and yearning wasn't as good as in Seasons of Waiting, or, once again, Persuasion, so if you want to read a book with a lot of longing between ODC I'd recommend those two more than A Shared History.
February 24, 2025
what a wonderful first book by the author
Its alternates between 1810 when Darcy and Lizzy meet in Kent and fall in love to 1813 where Lizzy is heartbroken due to his rejection and her lack of trust in him
She is bitter understandably so and Darcy is repentant again we know why. Another man is interested in E and she is seriously considering him after learning that Love is not enough
This darcy after the initial moment of madness always takes care of E in Kent or in Meryton, always defends her to others and generally is on look out for her
we get some angst at the end when dispite loving him E is unable to trust him not to hurt her again
but all is well that ends well
btw there is no Wickham here. i think one of the very very few stories i have read where he is missing and what a relief that is
Its alternates between 1810 when Darcy and Lizzy meet in Kent and fall in love to 1813 where Lizzy is heartbroken due to his rejection and her lack of trust in him
She is bitter understandably so and Darcy is repentant again we know why. Another man is interested in E and she is seriously considering him after learning that Love is not enough
This darcy after the initial moment of madness always takes care of E in Kent or in Meryton, always defends her to others and generally is on look out for her
we get some angst at the end when dispite loving him E is unable to trust him not to hurt her again
but all is well that ends well
btw there is no Wickham here. i think one of the very very few stories i have read where he is missing and what a relief that is
January 21, 2025
The first thing you have to understand about this variation, is that the timeline has been altered. In this book, Mr. Collins comes to the neighborhood years before Mr. Bingley and his party do. As such, it’s earlier that Elizabeth visits Charlotte and meets Mr. Darcy and the residents of Rosings Park. In fact, it’s just before Mr. Darcy’s father dies. This is important to understand what happens between Elizabeth and Darcy, who had been on the verge of a betrothal prior to that, not that Elizabeth knows that’s what happened. Mr. Darcy does not come to the neighborhood with Mr. Bingley, but when he arrives to stand up with him when Mr. Bingley marries Jane Bennet, he and Elizabeth come face to face for the first time in years. Can they make it through the week without revealing their shared history? Add in another suitor for Elizabeth’s attentions and all the makings for some amazing drama is in store. I enjoyed this book, I honestly did and though it’s the first that I’ve read by this author, I will be reading more.
December 23, 2024
Be prepared for some angst. The first, about, 2/3's of the story is told from Elizabeth's POV (3rd person) with the story alternating between the present day and ODC's past. The angst builds and builds - thenwe are finally shown Darcy's perspective. The angst doesn't lessen yet though. My goodness stubbornness and determination prevail - not always to the benefit of the players involved for a quite a while. So buckle up - this is intense and I. Loved. It. It was a hard won victory.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 7, 2025
I highly recommend this for fans of angst. There is romance, heartbreak, pining, and regret. I love the idea of E&D falling in love in Kent. The fact that 3 years pass after their initial meeting adds to the emotional tension between E&D. Darcy’s betrayal was hard to swallow, but it made for a worthy story of heartbreak followed by a short and sweet HEA. I am excited to see what else this author releases in the future.
January 9, 2025
Highly entertaining
Bouncing back and forth between Jane's wedding in1813 and their prior meeting in1810 at Rosings, we discover the roots of Elizabeth's anger and regrets about her relationship with Darcy.
Well plotted and nicely written, the story illustrates, again, the danger we all face if we allow fear, resentment, or anger to guide our decisions. Nice romantic scenes, with echoes of Austen's "Persuasion" here and there. Would have enjoyed an epilogue, but very good!
Bouncing back and forth between Jane's wedding in1813 and their prior meeting in1810 at Rosings, we discover the roots of Elizabeth's anger and regrets about her relationship with Darcy.
Well plotted and nicely written, the story illustrates, again, the danger we all face if we allow fear, resentment, or anger to guide our decisions. Nice romantic scenes, with echoes of Austen's "Persuasion" here and there. Would have enjoyed an epilogue, but very good!
March 25, 2025
Here, Elizabeth and Darcy have a past together and are thrown into each other's company again before Jane and Bingley's wedding. Both have been through pain and regret and the author does a great job depicting these emotions within especially Elizabeth. I thought the inversions and commentary on the original marriage for honor or love really elevates this book. Thoroughly enjoyable, extremely well-written---one of the best variations I've read.
January 14, 2025
A Good Read
What I liked:
- The story held my interest and didn't follow the same road map Austen laid out.
- Darcy and Elizabeth's interactions worked (mostly because Elizabeth could never remember to bring her coat 😃)
- Good supporting cast.
- No villains, no angst, just two people working through heartbreak.
What I liked:
- The story held my interest and didn't follow the same road map Austen laid out.
- Darcy and Elizabeth's interactions worked (mostly because Elizabeth could never remember to bring her coat 😃)
- Good supporting cast.
- No villains, no angst, just two people working through heartbreak.
March 3, 2025
Flashbacks and Present
I enjoyed this variation. I felt this is different from all the variations I’ve read. I enjoyed that the story showed dialogue of resolving conflicts. It did not tell you.
I did not like the deep dive into sadness and insecurities. But it was needed. If there was not great conflict there would be no great love.
I enjoyed this variation. I felt this is different from all the variations I’ve read. I enjoyed that the story showed dialogue of resolving conflicts. It did not tell you.
I did not like the deep dive into sadness and insecurities. But it was needed. If there was not great conflict there would be no great love.
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