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Pride and Persistence
Undaunted by a threatening storm, Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley insists he must deliver his letter to Miss Elizabeth Bennet–– then tragedy strikes. Riddled with guilt, Elizabeth comes to the aid of the comatose Mr. Darcy and stays by his side until he regains consciousness. She soon learns that although Mr. Darcy has awoken, he has not returned to himself. And with no memory of his first disastrous proposal, he has concluded that there is nothing he wants more than to propose to Miss Elizabeth. This humorous journey of love leaves one asking, can persistence pacify prejudice? Can Elizabeth see the real gentleman behind the injury, a man who persists in professing his love to her every chance he gets? In this Regency variation of Jane Austen’s beloved Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet both learn the value of persistence.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 28, 2014
73 people are currently reading
240 people want to read
About the author
Jeanna Ellsworth
11 books43 followersJeanna is a mother of three daughters, all of whom are well versed in all things Pride and Prejudice. She most definitely would say they are her best friends. She shares her best and worst days with them and they share theirs with her. She also proudly states she is the eighth of thirteen children. When she isn’t scrapbooking, quilting, or cooking, she is thoroughly ignoring her house for a few hours at a time in order to read yet another fan fiction novel. Somewhere between being a mom, a sister, a cook, and a best friend, she squeezes in three 12 hour shifts a week as a Registered Nurse in a Neurological ICU. She raises chickens, helps her daughter run a rabbitry, and gardens as much as she can. In all her still-under-forty years, she has never claimed to be as happy as she is now. Out of this mindset came a surge of creativity that simply had to be written down. Since she finished Mr. Darcy’s Promise, she has stated several times that she has gained something no one can take away from her; hope for her own Mr. Darcy. More than anything, she hopes to prepare her three best friends to look for their own Mr. Darcy and to settle for nothing less.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
August 9, 2017
In this Austen fanfic bit of fluff, we have Mr. Darcy falling off his horse and injuring himself--including a really nasty bump on the head--immediately after giving Elizabeth Bennet his letter after she refuses his first proposal. Darcy is taken to the Collins' vicarage to recuperate. It soon develops that he has limited amnesia and can't remember the last couple of days, including his proposal. Worse yet, every time he goes to sleep, he forgets those couple of days plus everything that's happened since. Think 50 First Dates. So he keeps proposing to Elizabeth, every day, not remembering he's done it before. Will his proposals get any better? Will Lizzie's heart soften?
It's a very silly but harmless romance, but what put me over the edge (besides several proofreading errors, like "paused for dramatic affect" and "had to reign in their kisses" and rampant punctuation issues) were the terrible characterization--these characters are almost nothing like the actual ones in P&P--and the truly awful dialogue, with a supreme disregard for Regency-era manners of speaking and mores. There are lots of lines like these:
If this kind of stuff doesn't bother you, and you like Austen takeoffs with lots of kissy-face scenes, have fun! Otherwise give this one a wide berth. It's really not worth the time I spent skimming it and writing this review.
It's a very silly but harmless romance, but what put me over the edge (besides several proofreading errors, like "paused for dramatic affect" and "had to reign in their kisses" and rampant punctuation issues) were the terrible characterization--these characters are almost nothing like the actual ones in P&P--and the truly awful dialogue, with a supreme disregard for Regency-era manners of speaking and mores. There are lots of lines like these:
Nurse (!) to Elizabeth: "Your body language seemed disrespectful, not at all how a lady would behave toward her host. But I see now that he is family, and one does not choose family—they kind of come as a package deal. You have to deal with them, no matter how they are.” (Did people say "kind of"? Or talk about "body language" or "package deals"? Would a nurse ever presume to talk like this to a lady she's just recently met?)Darcy also (1) cries, (2) prays, (3) sings to Elizabeth, and (4) tells a group of people that Lady Catherine was actually the daughter of a servant woman, that she had a youthful incestuous affair with a stable hand who was actually her birth mother's brother, and Anne is his illegitimate daughter. o.O
Darcy: "Well, that explains a lot."
Elizabeth thinking to herself: "Oops. Fell into that one."
Mr. Bennet thinking to himself: "These poor, love-struck kids." ("Kids??")
Mr. Bennet to Darcy (!): “We do not want any roamin’ hands or rushin’ fingers, do we?” (Whut???)
If this kind of stuff doesn't bother you, and you like Austen takeoffs with lots of kissy-face scenes, have fun! Otherwise give this one a wide berth. It's really not worth the time I spent skimming it and writing this review.
March 30, 2014
My first reaction after finishing the story: brilliant! This was an amusing, yet romantic, journey to love for Darcy and Elizabeth, under very different, and difficult, circumstances. The premise of the book intrigued me as I had not come across a story involving memory loss resulting in multiple marriage proposals before!
There is so much I could, and wish to, say about this book but I do want to give anything away, so you shall just have to read the story for yourself.
I shall mention a few things, however, to wet your appetite...
If you are anything like me with Pride and Prejudice variations, you want the most important people in the story, Darcy and Elizabeth, to have centre stage for most of the book. If this is the case, then read this book. Darcy and Elizabeth have plenty of screen time - or rather page time - due to the nature of Darcy's injuries confining him to one room, one room which Elizabeth is very rarely not in. The relationship between the two of them is very unique and most certainly far from conventional, or proper; Darcy struggles with a broken ankle and memory problems and Elizabeth seems to be the only one who can calm Darcy in his confused state. As Elizabeth feels rather responsible for the accident, she refuses to leave his side and does all she can to help his recovery, even if it means enduring a marriage proposal and declaration of love every day! Seeing how Elizabeth's opinion and view of Darcy changes as she sees him for who he truly is, his real character becoming more evident and clear in his confused state, is touching. We are also able to see the more caring and compassionate side to Elizabeth's nature. It is possible to learn so much more about someone when the rules of propriety are abandoned due to extraordinary circumstances!
As well as having a very different relationship with Darcy, Elizabeth also has interesting relationships with other secondary characters in the story. A few favourites of those for me would be with Colonel Fitzwilliam, and two new additions; Madeline, the nurse in charge of Darcy's care, and Mrs Wilkinson, the Collins's cook.
The Colonel is a wonderful character, as he generally is expected to be! He plays an interesting role in the story and even turns his hand to match-making! The bond of trust and the sense of openness which he and Elizabeth build throughout the story is sweet, as well as results in some rather amusing situations!
Madeleine is a very caring lady who comes to know Elizabeth very well due to the amount of time she spends in the sick room with Madeline, thanks to the positive effect only Elizabeth seems to be able to have on Darcy. Madeline also begins to entertain thoughts about the true nature of the relationship between these two young people before her...
Mrs Wilkinson was a favourite of mine. She becomes, in a way, the mother Elizabeth never had, as she is able to confide in her very easily, and in turn, Mrs Wilkinson has some very beneficial advice for Elizabeth. They share a very special relationship, regardless of the fact that her skills as a cook are sadly lacking!
You will find Lady Catherine to have a very interesting and interfering role in the story, as you would expect, but you also learn the truth about her past ,which, I can assure you, you will not be expecting!
You will also find Mr Collins to be a very silly character and this story will provide you with some... lasting images, let's just say. Mr Bennet, too, brings his share of the humour to the story, however with Mr Bennet you will be laughing with him, rather than at him as you with Mr Collins.
Something which I loved about this author's first story was the use of metaphors and symbolism throughout the story. There were similar metaphors to be found in this second story, thanks to Colonel Fitzwilliam in this one. The Colonel's metaphor of the 'storm' is a very clever metaphor and it is extremely important for Elizabeth and her relationship with Mr Darcy - but I shall not ruin it for you! I loved how the metaphor is slowly explained, little by little, throughout the story. The clever use of symbolism and metaphoric language is one of my favourite aspects to this author's style of writing.
I have often remarked on the humour in this story, however it is also a very romantic story (whilst staying completely clean, which is how I like my stories to be.) While Darcy continually forgetting the fact that he has already proposed to Elizabeth, multiple times, is amusing to read (at times during his confused state I just wanted to hug him he was so sweet!) it is also very touching to see how his proposals are improving each time, making it harder and harder for Elizabeth to refuse him.
However you can be assured that it all works out eventually! Something I particularly enjoyed in Mr Darcy's Promise was that the understanding was reached between Darcy and Lizzy before the last page of the book, as is the case with many stories. I like to read about the occasional stolen kiss and the intimate and open conversations between the pair once the majority of the obstacles have been overcome. So, of course, I was thrilled to find that this was also the case for this second story; it was not 'they kiss, they marry, the end', all on the last page!
As well as this, there is a delightful epilogue, set not long after the conclusion of the story (which I much prefer to skipping to years and years later) and never has an epilogue made me smile so much! All loose ends and the futures of the characters we have come to love are tied up in a very neat, satisfactory and perfectly appropriate way considering all the events of the story - I defy anyone not to smile and sigh with contentment whilst reading the concluding pages of this wonderful story! Who doesn't love a happy ending?
A thoroughly enjoyable read, particularly when you need a good book to cheer you up, and it is the perfect book for curling up with after a trying day at work; brilliantly funny and wonderfully romantic which will leave you feeling perfectly content and with a huge grin on your face - well I did anyway!
There is so much I could, and wish to, say about this book but I do want to give anything away, so you shall just have to read the story for yourself.
I shall mention a few things, however, to wet your appetite...
If you are anything like me with Pride and Prejudice variations, you want the most important people in the story, Darcy and Elizabeth, to have centre stage for most of the book. If this is the case, then read this book. Darcy and Elizabeth have plenty of screen time - or rather page time - due to the nature of Darcy's injuries confining him to one room, one room which Elizabeth is very rarely not in. The relationship between the two of them is very unique and most certainly far from conventional, or proper; Darcy struggles with a broken ankle and memory problems and Elizabeth seems to be the only one who can calm Darcy in his confused state. As Elizabeth feels rather responsible for the accident, she refuses to leave his side and does all she can to help his recovery, even if it means enduring a marriage proposal and declaration of love every day! Seeing how Elizabeth's opinion and view of Darcy changes as she sees him for who he truly is, his real character becoming more evident and clear in his confused state, is touching. We are also able to see the more caring and compassionate side to Elizabeth's nature. It is possible to learn so much more about someone when the rules of propriety are abandoned due to extraordinary circumstances!
As well as having a very different relationship with Darcy, Elizabeth also has interesting relationships with other secondary characters in the story. A few favourites of those for me would be with Colonel Fitzwilliam, and two new additions; Madeline, the nurse in charge of Darcy's care, and Mrs Wilkinson, the Collins's cook.
The Colonel is a wonderful character, as he generally is expected to be! He plays an interesting role in the story and even turns his hand to match-making! The bond of trust and the sense of openness which he and Elizabeth build throughout the story is sweet, as well as results in some rather amusing situations!
Madeleine is a very caring lady who comes to know Elizabeth very well due to the amount of time she spends in the sick room with Madeline, thanks to the positive effect only Elizabeth seems to be able to have on Darcy. Madeline also begins to entertain thoughts about the true nature of the relationship between these two young people before her...
Mrs Wilkinson was a favourite of mine. She becomes, in a way, the mother Elizabeth never had, as she is able to confide in her very easily, and in turn, Mrs Wilkinson has some very beneficial advice for Elizabeth. They share a very special relationship, regardless of the fact that her skills as a cook are sadly lacking!
You will find Lady Catherine to have a very interesting and interfering role in the story, as you would expect, but you also learn the truth about her past ,which, I can assure you, you will not be expecting!
You will also find Mr Collins to be a very silly character and this story will provide you with some... lasting images, let's just say. Mr Bennet, too, brings his share of the humour to the story, however with Mr Bennet you will be laughing with him, rather than at him as you with Mr Collins.
Something which I loved about this author's first story was the use of metaphors and symbolism throughout the story. There were similar metaphors to be found in this second story, thanks to Colonel Fitzwilliam in this one. The Colonel's metaphor of the 'storm' is a very clever metaphor and it is extremely important for Elizabeth and her relationship with Mr Darcy - but I shall not ruin it for you! I loved how the metaphor is slowly explained, little by little, throughout the story. The clever use of symbolism and metaphoric language is one of my favourite aspects to this author's style of writing.
I have often remarked on the humour in this story, however it is also a very romantic story (whilst staying completely clean, which is how I like my stories to be.) While Darcy continually forgetting the fact that he has already proposed to Elizabeth, multiple times, is amusing to read (at times during his confused state I just wanted to hug him he was so sweet!) it is also very touching to see how his proposals are improving each time, making it harder and harder for Elizabeth to refuse him.
However you can be assured that it all works out eventually! Something I particularly enjoyed in Mr Darcy's Promise was that the understanding was reached between Darcy and Lizzy before the last page of the book, as is the case with many stories. I like to read about the occasional stolen kiss and the intimate and open conversations between the pair once the majority of the obstacles have been overcome. So, of course, I was thrilled to find that this was also the case for this second story; it was not 'they kiss, they marry, the end', all on the last page!
As well as this, there is a delightful epilogue, set not long after the conclusion of the story (which I much prefer to skipping to years and years later) and never has an epilogue made me smile so much! All loose ends and the futures of the characters we have come to love are tied up in a very neat, satisfactory and perfectly appropriate way considering all the events of the story - I defy anyone not to smile and sigh with contentment whilst reading the concluding pages of this wonderful story! Who doesn't love a happy ending?
A thoroughly enjoyable read, particularly when you need a good book to cheer you up, and it is the perfect book for curling up with after a trying day at work; brilliantly funny and wonderfully romantic which will leave you feeling perfectly content and with a huge grin on your face - well I did anyway!
June 18, 2016
Truly dreadful book. I think the author was aiming for humourous but not altogether sure as it is very far from funny. I really have to assume she has never read the original work, as she has no notion of the characters of Darcy and Elizabeth - or anyone else she has transplanted into her little fantasy, come to that. The hugely unlikely and extremely over-familiar characters she introduces herself, presumably to give herself a little light relief from even attempting to mimic the genius she is aping, are appalling. Ladies in the Regency era did NOT make instant BFFs of their servants - sorry, they just didn't. The cook would NOT address her employers friend as 'honey' and even worse, she would not (and the lady would not allow her to) criticise her employer openly - not if she wished to remain in employment, anyway.
I was a little puzzled as to why poor Mr Collins had to become a gorilla and Lady Catherine was given such a horrible back story - then it came to me. They are rednecks. These are wholly American characters clumsily transplanted into a country and a time period of which the author has no knowledge and for which she has no feeling. She has given her two main characters the names Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett because it will help sell her book - and for the genre it is a very expensive book (fortunately I borrowed it via Kindle Unlimited, otherwise it would have made me even madder than it did)
I must point out that I have nothing against American variations on P&P. One of my favourite authors in the genre is clearly American, frequently uses Americanisms and often includes full-on sex scenes. But I love her books because they always retain the SPIRIT of the original and I feel Jane would approve (yes, even of the sex). I think this book would evoke the same response in Austen as it did in me - it is extremely distasteful and about as far from the delicacy and intelligence of the novel that supposedly inspired it as it is possible to get.
I was a little puzzled as to why poor Mr Collins had to become a gorilla and Lady Catherine was given such a horrible back story - then it came to me. They are rednecks. These are wholly American characters clumsily transplanted into a country and a time period of which the author has no knowledge and for which she has no feeling. She has given her two main characters the names Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett because it will help sell her book - and for the genre it is a very expensive book (fortunately I borrowed it via Kindle Unlimited, otherwise it would have made me even madder than it did)
I must point out that I have nothing against American variations on P&P. One of my favourite authors in the genre is clearly American, frequently uses Americanisms and often includes full-on sex scenes. But I love her books because they always retain the SPIRIT of the original and I feel Jane would approve (yes, even of the sex). I think this book would evoke the same response in Austen as it did in me - it is extremely distasteful and about as far from the delicacy and intelligence of the novel that supposedly inspired it as it is possible to get.
December 19, 2017
I truly loved this story. But probably more 4.5 stars. The author has great writing skills. However, in saying this I do have to state some qualifications. The language was very modern. I found when the nurse, Madeline, addressed Elizabeth as "Honey" it was jarring to my mind which was set to read Regency times and expressions. Later, the term "Dear" is used also in talking to Elizabeth, etc.
However, the most significant note is that Darcy is portrayed as a completely different man after his head injury. Having worked in education I have been around children and teens with head injuries and agree that they are usually different, and usually it is for the worse. Darcy becomes someone not at all like the reticent, staring man with all his thoughts and feelings so hidden that no one realizes he is in love with Elizabeth in the canon. Even when he was trying to show her he had changed he stumbled over his words in P&P, i.e., at Pemberley when he meets her touring with her aunt and uncle and asks her twice about her family. He is now open, talkative, argumentative, combative/emotionally on a roller coaster in his dealing with everyone but, most of all, Elizabeth. And then he is dishonest in continuing to pretend that he has no memories to Elizabeth, when "Disguise of every sort is my abhorrence". So in this story you will have to accept that the injury made changes in his personality or you will not be happy.
Society rules are bent to permit Elizabeth to be allowed to spend all day in his presence and to help nurse him as he seems to be calmer with her there. Furthermore, Elizabeth is different, as another reviewer pointed out. In the canon she doesn't even tell Jane all that she is feeling but here, I, too, was aghast that she allowed letters to lay around her room, that she gave Charlotte the letter from Darcy in which he explains why he separated Bingley and Jane and about his relationship with Wickham, that she let lay out in the open the love letter/proposal dictated by Darcy and which Georgiana then found and read. And in going into everything so deeply with the cook and the nurse rather than talking to her best friend, Charlotte, a different Elizabeth is depicted. Col. Fitzwilliam is a much wiser man in this story: loved his metaphor about the storm and his change of heart about the reasons to marry. He was truly a matchmaker for ODC here.
The added story lines about the cook her cooking skills, Elizabeth's interest in food, the doctor and his relationship to Lady Catherine, Lady Catherine, her husband's death, her "love story", Anne's birth, the nurse and her background and views about people all added to the interest in the story.
I am a romantic. So basically I loved the romance in this story. Reading all the different ways Darcy expressed his love for Elizabeth and then his ways of proposing over and over again were so poignant. There were times tears came to my eyes. And to read of how Elizabeth battled with her feelings, taking into account the counseling from the other characters. It even touched my heart to read of the looks and expressions and little touches which sent spikes up to the heart. Others have used this but I enjoy reading of it over and over again.
The descriptions of Mr. Collins were gross! Keep him as far away from any other body as possible. I could have done without this. I dislike him enough without the added push. And how could he dare to touch a woman's clothes to pack them??? And to toss her out! Where is his Christianity?
I recommend this as a delicious story of romance and persistent love winning out.
However, the most significant note is that Darcy is portrayed as a completely different man after his head injury. Having worked in education I have been around children and teens with head injuries and agree that they are usually different, and usually it is for the worse. Darcy becomes someone not at all like the reticent, staring man with all his thoughts and feelings so hidden that no one realizes he is in love with Elizabeth in the canon. Even when he was trying to show her he had changed he stumbled over his words in P&P, i.e., at Pemberley when he meets her touring with her aunt and uncle and asks her twice about her family. He is now open, talkative, argumentative, combative/emotionally on a roller coaster in his dealing with everyone but, most of all, Elizabeth. And then he is dishonest in continuing to pretend that he has no memories to Elizabeth, when "Disguise of every sort is my abhorrence". So in this story you will have to accept that the injury made changes in his personality or you will not be happy.
Society rules are bent to permit Elizabeth to be allowed to spend all day in his presence and to help nurse him as he seems to be calmer with her there. Furthermore, Elizabeth is different, as another reviewer pointed out. In the canon she doesn't even tell Jane all that she is feeling but here, I, too, was aghast that she allowed letters to lay around her room, that she gave Charlotte the letter from Darcy in which he explains why he separated Bingley and Jane and about his relationship with Wickham, that she let lay out in the open the love letter/proposal dictated by Darcy and which Georgiana then found and read. And in going into everything so deeply with the cook and the nurse rather than talking to her best friend, Charlotte, a different Elizabeth is depicted. Col. Fitzwilliam is a much wiser man in this story: loved his metaphor about the storm and his change of heart about the reasons to marry. He was truly a matchmaker for ODC here.
The added story lines about the cook her cooking skills, Elizabeth's interest in food, the doctor and his relationship to Lady Catherine, Lady Catherine, her husband's death, her "love story", Anne's birth, the nurse and her background and views about people all added to the interest in the story.
I am a romantic. So basically I loved the romance in this story. Reading all the different ways Darcy expressed his love for Elizabeth and then his ways of proposing over and over again were so poignant. There were times tears came to my eyes. And to read of how Elizabeth battled with her feelings, taking into account the counseling from the other characters. It even touched my heart to read of the looks and expressions and little touches which sent spikes up to the heart. Others have used this but I enjoy reading of it over and over again.
The descriptions of Mr. Collins were gross! Keep him as far away from any other body as possible. I could have done without this. I dislike him enough without the added push. And how could he dare to touch a woman's clothes to pack them??? And to toss her out! Where is his Christianity?
I recommend this as a delicious story of romance and persistent love winning out.
August 8, 2017
I know I'm going against the flow, but I really couldn't enjoy this books. First of all, in this story Elizabeth is not reserved about her feelings, she freely gossips about Mr. Darcy's proposal with servants and even lets Charlotte read the letter he gave her. This is inconceivable to me.
More, I felt she was coerced to love him. Everybody was only thinking of him, in his well-being, forgetting that she was a gentlewoman and shouldn't feel oblige to attend a man who wasn't even her family. I really felt her uneasiness with the whole situation and this is not the Lizzy I love.
And, oh my, I can't see Mr. Darcy signing his letter as "William Darcy". lol
More, I felt she was coerced to love him. Everybody was only thinking of him, in his well-being, forgetting that she was a gentlewoman and shouldn't feel oblige to attend a man who wasn't even her family. I really felt her uneasiness with the whole situation and this is not the Lizzy I love.
And, oh my, I can't see Mr. Darcy signing his letter as "William Darcy". lol
April 16, 2014
(4 1/2- Goodreads really needs 1/2 star rating abilities. ;))
This book made me "happier than a gorilla with bananas"! As my first Jane Austen fan fiction novel, this book definitely left me ready to dive into more variations! I particularly look forward to reading more from Jeanna. :D
Pride and Persistence brings us the same characters that we know and love from the original classic, but a brilliant twist adds more to the story than even Jane gave us, all those years ago (I will still always be partial to the original, but I enjoyed hearing about some of the characters pasts that we've never heard about. ;)). I appreciated that our loved ones maintained the same personalities and characteristics that originally had us in raptures (reading about Mrs Bennet in particular was exactly like watching the 1995 adaption, and Jane was so classic as well. I loved it.), and that the new take on the story was believable. I really have enjoyed the few amnesia stories I've read- I think it really opens the author up to many opportunities for comedy and also contention.
Mr Collins made me laugh so hard! He's just as greasy, gross, and annoying as he always has been. :P His resentment towards Elizabeth and high opinion of himself was obvious, and resulted in some hilarious scenes. ;)
The depth of character I saw in Lady Catherine made me wonder if perhaps the author has her novel in the works(?). :}
Lizzy and Darcy were so adorable together! What a sweet romance. I enjoyed the theme of persistence and that Lizzy had to fall in love with him over time, whereas in the original novel it's quite quick and I've read articles about how improbable it would be for them to actually get married so early on, especially taking Lizzy's stubborn nature into account. ;)
I would have to say my favorite character was Colonel Fitzwilliam- and that I cannot wait to read his story that is currently in the works, I believe! :D He was definitely in it a ton more than in the original. He was so sweet and had a great sense of humor. I enjoyed reading his talks with Lizzy and his analogy and advice to her about storms. (If that makes you curious at all, you'll have to read it. ;))
Thank you SO much, Miss Jeanna (and Soph ;)) for encouraging me to read this and listening to the updates on my progress (which, I'm afraid, were few and far between since I couldn't stop reading!)- I will always have you two to thank for getting me hooked on JAFF. :)
This book made me "happier than a gorilla with bananas"! As my first Jane Austen fan fiction novel, this book definitely left me ready to dive into more variations! I particularly look forward to reading more from Jeanna. :D
Pride and Persistence brings us the same characters that we know and love from the original classic, but a brilliant twist adds more to the story than even Jane gave us, all those years ago (I will still always be partial to the original, but I enjoyed hearing about some of the characters pasts that we've never heard about. ;)). I appreciated that our loved ones maintained the same personalities and characteristics that originally had us in raptures (reading about Mrs Bennet in particular was exactly like watching the 1995 adaption, and Jane was so classic as well. I loved it.), and that the new take on the story was believable. I really have enjoyed the few amnesia stories I've read- I think it really opens the author up to many opportunities for comedy and also contention.
Mr Collins made me laugh so hard! He's just as greasy, gross, and annoying as he always has been. :P His resentment towards Elizabeth and high opinion of himself was obvious, and resulted in some hilarious scenes. ;)
The depth of character I saw in Lady Catherine made me wonder if perhaps the author has her novel in the works(?). :}
Lizzy and Darcy were so adorable together! What a sweet romance. I enjoyed the theme of persistence and that Lizzy had to fall in love with him over time, whereas in the original novel it's quite quick and I've read articles about how improbable it would be for them to actually get married so early on, especially taking Lizzy's stubborn nature into account. ;)
I would have to say my favorite character was Colonel Fitzwilliam- and that I cannot wait to read his story that is currently in the works, I believe! :D He was definitely in it a ton more than in the original. He was so sweet and had a great sense of humor. I enjoyed reading his talks with Lizzy and his analogy and advice to her about storms. (If that makes you curious at all, you'll have to read it. ;))
Thank you SO much, Miss Jeanna (and Soph ;)) for encouraging me to read this and listening to the updates on my progress (which, I'm afraid, were few and far between since I couldn't stop reading!)- I will always have you two to thank for getting me hooked on JAFF. :)
October 6, 2014
I loved this version of Pride and Prejudice.I found it very unique in the idea of Darcy's hitting his head and losing his memory.All the characters stayed true to the original novel from the meddling Lady Catherine to the ridiculous Mr.Collins.This is the first Pride and Prejudice variation that I have read that wasn't by Amanda Grange.I was worried that other Jane Austen variations and retellings wouldn't live up to hers but I was so wrong.Pride and Persistence is a great book.I had only one problem some of the language was too modern for the time period.Even through the writing doesn't have a regency feel or the pose of Austen it is still great and the story flowed well.I loved how this book was romantic and passionate with kisses and embraces and still a clean/sweet romance.The revelation about one of the characters at the end I didn't see coming.Colonel Fitzwilliam is a big character in this book and was developed very believable and him being a character I always wanted more of in the original novel I was happy to have him play a big role in this book.I loved the ending and can't wait to read this author's other books.
A special thanks to Alice @ readingwithalice.blogspot.com for hosting the giveaway for this book and to Jeanna Ellsworth for having the giveaway and sending me a copy of this book.This is an honest review and winning a copy didn't in any way influence my review.
Rating:4.5 out of 5 stars(goodreads need half stars)
Content Rating:PG(sensual kisses and embraces)
This review can also be found on my blog thereadingrebel.wordpress.com
Happy Reading.
A special thanks to Alice @ readingwithalice.blogspot.com for hosting the giveaway for this book and to Jeanna Ellsworth for having the giveaway and sending me a copy of this book.This is an honest review and winning a copy didn't in any way influence my review.
Rating:4.5 out of 5 stars(goodreads need half stars)
Content Rating:PG(sensual kisses and embraces)
This review can also be found on my blog thereadingrebel.wordpress.com
Happy Reading.
July 7, 2015
Early mild spoilers
Didn't finish this one. It starts right after Darcy proposes to Elizabeth and goes to write her a letter, praying (yes praying on his knees) that she'll read it and understand him. Now, that's not why I stopped reading, never pictured Darcy as a religious man, but hey, that's great.
No, I stopped reading because when he hands Elizabeth the letter and goes to ride off he falls off his horse (horse was scared by thunder) he hits his head and gets amnesia. Convalescing in the Collins's home from a broken ankle, she comes down to see him when she overhears him quite loudly telling his nurse and Colonel Fitzwilliam that he must be able to stand to use the chamber pot, he is pretty much yelling this...uh sorry Darcy is a gentleman. Then Elizabeth is able to call him down and get him to do is duty sitting down...lame I know. But before she leaves so he can do his business he asks her 3-4 times if she is going to come back to see him...anyway, just more like that over and over, seemed like he was such a weak, love sick puppy dog and not the strong, brooding, Darcy we love...not for me. Nothing to keep me reading.
Moral Note: ?
Didn't finish this one. It starts right after Darcy proposes to Elizabeth and goes to write her a letter, praying (yes praying on his knees) that she'll read it and understand him. Now, that's not why I stopped reading, never pictured Darcy as a religious man, but hey, that's great.
No, I stopped reading because when he hands Elizabeth the letter and goes to ride off he falls off his horse (horse was scared by thunder) he hits his head and gets amnesia. Convalescing in the Collins's home from a broken ankle, she comes down to see him when she overhears him quite loudly telling his nurse and Colonel Fitzwilliam that he must be able to stand to use the chamber pot, he is pretty much yelling this...uh sorry Darcy is a gentleman. Then Elizabeth is able to call him down and get him to do is duty sitting down...lame I know. But before she leaves so he can do his business he asks her 3-4 times if she is going to come back to see him...anyway, just more like that over and over, seemed like he was such a weak, love sick puppy dog and not the strong, brooding, Darcy we love...not for me. Nothing to keep me reading.
Moral Note: ?
September 14, 2023
Persistence Pays
Reviewed in Canada on November 3, 2019
Lost memories after an accident and a major bump on the head can’t stop Darcy’s persistence in making Elizabeth his wife through multiple proposals, as he awakens each day not remembering he has already done so. I enjoyed this lighthearted variation. Collins was ewww. Loved the Colonel. Some nice new characters.
Purchased free on Amazon January 9, 2021
September 13, 2023 - Audiobook
Nancy Peterson’s performance of all the various characters is excellent and makes a great story even better. Happy to recommend it.
Reviewed in Canada on November 3, 2019
Lost memories after an accident and a major bump on the head can’t stop Darcy’s persistence in making Elizabeth his wife through multiple proposals, as he awakens each day not remembering he has already done so. I enjoyed this lighthearted variation. Collins was ewww. Loved the Colonel. Some nice new characters.
Purchased free on Amazon January 9, 2021
September 13, 2023 - Audiobook
Nancy Peterson’s performance of all the various characters is excellent and makes a great story even better. Happy to recommend it.
March 19, 2016
PRIDE AND PERSISTENCE by Jeanna Ellsworth
I first read this not long after it was published and was totally delighted with it and the concept behind it. It's recently become available from Audible so I immediately spent one of my subscription credits on it. I love audiobooks! They're great for getting a reading fix when you can't actually read because of doing something else. I listen when I'm driving to and from work, cooking, and winding down for sleep after a long day, to name but three situations.
I've read somewhere that folk have likened it to a film call 50 First Dates. Having not seen that one but knowing and loving Groundhog Day, that's what springs to my mind with Pride and Persistence.
The premise is that Darcy sustains a head injury and broken foot falling from his horse after giving Elizabeth his letter following the disastrous first proposal at Hunsford. He's unconscious for a while and has memory loss when he comes round. He doesn't remember that proposal! Elizabeth helps care for him at the parsonage as he's too ill to be moved. Each time he falls asleep, he loses the memory of what has happened so more proposals ensue. I won't say any more but there's a lot of poignancy but also a great deal of humour in this. Jeanna Ellsworth's experience as a neurology nurse certainly shines through here. Warning: this Mr. Collins is totally gross!
There were a few Americanisms (pants instead of breeches, on one occasion, is the one that really jarred with me) but not enough to spoil the book/audio overall. The narration of the audio was also pretty good. I suspect that the narrator, Nancy Peterson, is not using her native accent but brought off a creditable English one. The main exception was the pronunciation of Hertfordshire. We pronounce it "Heart-fordshire" whereas she used "Hurt-fordshire" but at least she was consistent with it. I've heard some real horrors by narrators in the past, some of whom just seemed unable to make their minds up as to how a name or place should be pronounced.
I can recommend both book and audio to anyone who hasn't yet read this. There are a number of lovely romantic scenes but nothing explicit so this would be suitable for all audiences.
I first read this not long after it was published and was totally delighted with it and the concept behind it. It's recently become available from Audible so I immediately spent one of my subscription credits on it. I love audiobooks! They're great for getting a reading fix when you can't actually read because of doing something else. I listen when I'm driving to and from work, cooking, and winding down for sleep after a long day, to name but three situations.
I've read somewhere that folk have likened it to a film call 50 First Dates. Having not seen that one but knowing and loving Groundhog Day, that's what springs to my mind with Pride and Persistence.
The premise is that Darcy sustains a head injury and broken foot falling from his horse after giving Elizabeth his letter following the disastrous first proposal at Hunsford. He's unconscious for a while and has memory loss when he comes round. He doesn't remember that proposal! Elizabeth helps care for him at the parsonage as he's too ill to be moved. Each time he falls asleep, he loses the memory of what has happened so more proposals ensue. I won't say any more but there's a lot of poignancy but also a great deal of humour in this. Jeanna Ellsworth's experience as a neurology nurse certainly shines through here. Warning: this Mr. Collins is totally gross!
There were a few Americanisms (pants instead of breeches, on one occasion, is the one that really jarred with me) but not enough to spoil the book/audio overall. The narration of the audio was also pretty good. I suspect that the narrator, Nancy Peterson, is not using her native accent but brought off a creditable English one. The main exception was the pronunciation of Hertfordshire. We pronounce it "Heart-fordshire" whereas she used "Hurt-fordshire" but at least she was consistent with it. I've heard some real horrors by narrators in the past, some of whom just seemed unable to make their minds up as to how a name or place should be pronounced.
I can recommend both book and audio to anyone who hasn't yet read this. There are a number of lovely romantic scenes but nothing explicit so this would be suitable for all audiences.
February 14, 2021
What I Enjoyed:
✿ The premiss of Darcy forgetting first proposal and having a clean slate while Lizzy tends to him at Rosings seemed promising.
What Displeased Me:
✗ The writing is rudimentary.
✗Language is simple and more often than not era inappropriate. The dialogue is the kind that furrows your brows, puckers your lips, and has you declaring ‘doubt’ after everything the characters say and do
'She then read to him for two hours straight. Each time her voice stopped, he would start thrashing about.'
I don't know why but that is the only line I saved on kindle, the image of it made me chuckle.
✗An inordinate amount of focus dedicated on new minor characters
✗ Very OOC i.e.
➭ Lizzy confides in a cook at Hunsford, who she sees as a mother figure! After how long? A few weeks?
➭ Darcy.. oof! He acts like a little boy trapped in an adults body- even before he hits his head!
Verdict:
I made it as far as 20% before I could bear no more.
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?Nope
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?Nope
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? Devoid of it
May 14, 2014
I liked the premise of the story, but the writing made it difficult to enjoy.
The language is inconsistent, switching between Regency and Modern quite often. Too much detail is given to insignificant moments that have no bearing or recurrence in the story, and the characters are bland, repetitive, and flat.
At some points it seemed that the author was trying to inject a lot of humour into the story, but these fell short of the mark and weren't actually that funny.
Unfortunately, it's books like this that make me seriously re-consider my decision to buy books rather than borrow then from digital libraries.
The language is inconsistent, switching between Regency and Modern quite often. Too much detail is given to insignificant moments that have no bearing or recurrence in the story, and the characters are bland, repetitive, and flat.
At some points it seemed that the author was trying to inject a lot of humour into the story, but these fell short of the mark and weren't actually that funny.
Unfortunately, it's books like this that make me seriously re-consider my decision to buy books rather than borrow then from digital libraries.
September 22, 2014
So bad. It's like the author hates Darcy and wants to heap humiliation on him. Why not just kick him right in the nards? And Elizabeth is like the Mom in Back to the Future with some twisted Florence Nightengale fetish. Then throw in a dash of Groundhog Day. The middle of the book was tolerable I suppose. The ending involved repeating the word "persistent" enough times to justify the title. Also the image of Darcy as a devout religious man praying earnestly after his failed proposal is just inconsistent with his character and his station in life. Not buying this one at all. The love scenes with variations on the word "lip" to describe them kissing . . . puh-lease.
November 26, 2019
Pride and Prejudice variation
A delightful, sweet and romantic story, interspersed with laugh out loud moments.
Enters with the letter exchange at Rosings where Darcy was injured as they were about to part ways.
He was brought to the parsonage where he had to stay because of his injuries and Elizabeth became a vital part of his recovery together with an absolutely adorable Colonel.
The story was told with warmth and an Austenesque tone that I loved. Plenty of romantic interludes helped Darcy wheedled his way into Elizabeth's heart and to win her love.
Persistent indeed...
Recommend!
A delightful, sweet and romantic story, interspersed with laugh out loud moments.
Enters with the letter exchange at Rosings where Darcy was injured as they were about to part ways.
He was brought to the parsonage where he had to stay because of his injuries and Elizabeth became a vital part of his recovery together with an absolutely adorable Colonel.
The story was told with warmth and an Austenesque tone that I loved. Plenty of romantic interludes helped Darcy wheedled his way into Elizabeth's heart and to win her love.
Persistent indeed...
Recommend!
August 8, 2017
Mr Darcy is injured while trying to deliver his post proposal letter. As a result of his fall he does not remember his proposal and repeats it over and over each day to Elizabeth. She, on the other hand, is not as untouched as she would like. With the help of some amazing supporting characters, our couple overcomes, as expected. The happily ever after is quite long but fun. The letter exchange between the lovers is great and Mr Bennett's comments made me laugh out loud. Mr Darcy's persistence is definitely the leading role in this book.
May 31, 2018
" Dear Lord, I beg of you to guide my hand. I beg of you to help me know what she needs to read. She is my future, I can feel it. She is everything I need and want but I cannot let her go without an explanation. I am just a man right now but I need you to help me as I put pen to paper, she belongs with me. I must convince her that I am a man worthy os her"
This was such a beautiful, moving, funny story that I barely know what to write! There is just to much to comment on for my on good.
After his first, disastrous proposal, Fitwilliam Darcy decides to address Miss Elizabeth's "accusations" and writes her a letter. One last attempt to make her change her mind and love him back. The way he prays for a change of heart, how he almost immediately digests her words and understands he had part of the blame in the "Hunstford Incident" was heart warming. I could actually feel how devastated he was, how desperate he sounded while going back to Rosings and deciding he would keep trying - and eventually, prevail (yes, arrogant much?).
Elizabeth was also devastated. As she is always pointing out, she doesn't regret her refusal. He was rude, prideful and arrogant... But she can't help but begrudgingly admit that winning the affections and respect of such a man is something. Her answer, brutal, almost as arrogant and hurtful as his own words, weigh so much on her that she decides, on the next morning, to apologize.
They eventually find each other in the middle of a storm. And that is when, after just giving her his letter, Mr Darcy's horse is spooked by the thunders and lightenings... And throws his rider to the say, breaking his leg and laying him unconscious on the floor with a head gash.
" There is a promise in knowing that it is indeed important to have the storms and to appreciate the growth it brings into one's life. But it will not last forever. There will be a break in the clouds. The sun will shine again."
Oh, Colonel Fitwilliam, who'd've though you had such a pearl of wisdom hidden behind your uniform?
The story, basically, revolved around the idea of a storm in Lizzy's and William's lives, as he slowly recovered from his injuries and was able to, bit by bit, show her the man he truly was and win her heart.
One of the best parts was actually his short-term memory loss. Every morning, or every time he woke up, Darcy wouldn't have any remembrance of what happened the day before. His memories went back until two days prior to the accident.
More specifically, the same day Fitwilliam Darcy decided he would definitely propose to Miss Bennet. For almost two weeks, his memory'd reset and bring him back to this very moment. Now, you can imagine how things played out.
It was funny, beautiful and so sweet being how he slowly changed his way to address her, explained himself and shown the gentle, kind and caring man he was to Elizabeth - with the always helpful interference of Colonel Fitwilliam and nurse Madeline. There were love letters, misunderstood acceptances, deceptive denials and a storm of beautiful heart-felt words.
He was stubborn, or, as ODC prefers, persistent until the very end.
"It was Madeline that convinced me to play along. She told me that either one of two things would happen with these repeated proposals. Either you would give up...".
"That never would have happened."
"I know."
"Or?"
"Or you would turn into a man that I wanted to accept. (...) You never really changed. I think I did most of the changing"
As you can see, I'm all for quotes with this one. *---*
Of course, we have odious Mr. Collins (though, fortunately, not too much of him), the every-time more lunatic attempts of Lady Catherine to ensnare Darcy for her - unwilling - daughter and, the best part, some very, VERY nice and important new characters that I'll definitely miss with the end of this book.
"My answer to you then and now, and ultimately the reason why I accepted your thirteenth proposal, are the same. If I really loved the man, it also would not matter how he proposed, because I would accept him no matter what words or methods he used."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2020
One of my favorite JAFF books of all time. Another kind of Groundhog Day in a sense. I could read this a hundred times and never tire of it.
Reread: One of the reasons I like this book is the way she writes about his injury. To me, this is one of the best "head injury" JAFF scenarios out there.
Reread: One of the reasons I like this book is the way she writes about his injury. To me, this is one of the best "head injury" JAFF scenarios out there.
May 17, 2014
What if right after delivering his explanatory letter to Elizabeth, Darcy fell from his horse, broke his foot, hit his head, and was knocked unconscious? What if, as a result of such a head injury, Darcy lost his short-term memory and could not remember anything that happened in the last two days? What if Darcy had to recuperate at Hunsford Parsonage because it would be to dangerous and difficult to move him anywhere else? What if Darcy woke everyone morning believing that he has not yet proposed to Elizabeth and repeatedly set himself to that task with all due immediacy and persistence?
Oh my! Isn’t this an exciting premise?!? Poor Lizzy, she must see, live with, and tend to the man she gave a scathing and harsh refusal to! But the thing is…he doesn’t remember her refusal and continues to propose to her again and again! She can’t flat-out refuse him each time or that might cause a set-back in his recovery. So against her desires, Lizzy must engage in a small amount of play-acting and half-truths…
Being in such difficult and delicate situation with a rejected suitor tests Elizabeth’s fortitude, and seeing Darcy in such a helpless and uninhabited manner causes her to spend countless hours contemplating the man and his complex character. I took great pleasure in witnessing Elizabeth’s thorough self-examination and private musings. I loved how she gradually gained more insight about Mr. Darcy and his actions, and how she objectively analyzed her reactions and behavior towards Darcy in the past. In addition, I thought it interesting how she compared her relationship and exchanges with Mr. Darcy to the other men in her social circle – Mr. Bingley, Mr. Wickham, and Colonel Fitzwilliam; and then later on how she evaluated the differences between the proposals she received from Mr. Collins and Mr. Darcy. I really enjoyed how introspective Elizabeth was in this variation, I loved being inside her head and observe her work all this out! I also loved the “reminder letter” Lizzy wrote for Darcy and how she recorded all of Darcy’s different proposals in her journal!
Besides seeing the sweet, unconventional, and hilarious scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth, I greatly enjoyed witnessing Elizabeth’s relationship with some new original characters – Mrs. Wilkinson (the cook at Hunsford Parsonage) and Madeline (Darcy’s hired nurse). I loved learning about these characters, seeing their friendship with and support of Elizabeth, and finding out what happens to them in the future (Yes! The epilogue was perfectly satisfying!) I also loved Elizabeth’s interactions with Colonel Fitzwilliam who, with his good-natured jests, friendly concern for Elizabeth’s heart, and fierce protection of Darcy from Lady Catherine’s schemes, easily won my heart. (*sigh* loved seeing this soldier’s tender side).
Speaking of Lady Catherine and her schemes…oh my! She turns out to be a very dangerous and devious character! I enjoyed seeing Lady Catherine in the role of main antagonist and found the revealed history about her love life to be interesting and well-developed, but perhaps just a little tad bit disturbing. I loved seeing her attempt to thwart Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s relationship, although I did find her last scheme to be a little too outlandish. (I think she may have lost her marbles!)
Pride and Persistence is such an adorable and admirable variation! Filled with recovery, reflection, romance, rejections, and a plethora of proposals, this novel will be sure to make you laugh, smile, and sigh with delight. I highly recommend!
Oh my! Isn’t this an exciting premise?!? Poor Lizzy, she must see, live with, and tend to the man she gave a scathing and harsh refusal to! But the thing is…he doesn’t remember her refusal and continues to propose to her again and again! She can’t flat-out refuse him each time or that might cause a set-back in his recovery. So against her desires, Lizzy must engage in a small amount of play-acting and half-truths…
Being in such difficult and delicate situation with a rejected suitor tests Elizabeth’s fortitude, and seeing Darcy in such a helpless and uninhabited manner causes her to spend countless hours contemplating the man and his complex character. I took great pleasure in witnessing Elizabeth’s thorough self-examination and private musings. I loved how she gradually gained more insight about Mr. Darcy and his actions, and how she objectively analyzed her reactions and behavior towards Darcy in the past. In addition, I thought it interesting how she compared her relationship and exchanges with Mr. Darcy to the other men in her social circle – Mr. Bingley, Mr. Wickham, and Colonel Fitzwilliam; and then later on how she evaluated the differences between the proposals she received from Mr. Collins and Mr. Darcy. I really enjoyed how introspective Elizabeth was in this variation, I loved being inside her head and observe her work all this out! I also loved the “reminder letter” Lizzy wrote for Darcy and how she recorded all of Darcy’s different proposals in her journal!
Besides seeing the sweet, unconventional, and hilarious scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth, I greatly enjoyed witnessing Elizabeth’s relationship with some new original characters – Mrs. Wilkinson (the cook at Hunsford Parsonage) and Madeline (Darcy’s hired nurse). I loved learning about these characters, seeing their friendship with and support of Elizabeth, and finding out what happens to them in the future (Yes! The epilogue was perfectly satisfying!) I also loved Elizabeth’s interactions with Colonel Fitzwilliam who, with his good-natured jests, friendly concern for Elizabeth’s heart, and fierce protection of Darcy from Lady Catherine’s schemes, easily won my heart. (*sigh* loved seeing this soldier’s tender side).
Speaking of Lady Catherine and her schemes…oh my! She turns out to be a very dangerous and devious character! I enjoyed seeing Lady Catherine in the role of main antagonist and found the revealed history about her love life to be interesting and well-developed, but perhaps just a little tad bit disturbing. I loved seeing her attempt to thwart Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s relationship, although I did find her last scheme to be a little too outlandish. (I think she may have lost her marbles!)
Pride and Persistence is such an adorable and admirable variation! Filled with recovery, reflection, romance, rejections, and a plethora of proposals, this novel will be sure to make you laugh, smile, and sigh with delight. I highly recommend!
July 16, 2015
So I felt like being generous today, this was also probably a 3.5 for me.
I really loved the first half of the book. It kind of felt like the movie fifty first dates. After delivering his letter to Elizabeth at the parsonage, his horse was spooked by thunder, and Darcy suffers a broken foot and a head injury. He forgets his proposal to Elizabeth, and repeatedly asks her for the hand over the course of two weeks.
What I liked about this book: She is a very good writer. I was grossed out by her description of Collins! Ew! I loved Colonel Fitzwilliam, Madeline, and Mrs. Wilkerson. I think they made the story even more interesting and they pushed it in cool directions. I just loved all of his proposals. My heart started to melt on the last few especially!
What I didn't like: She definitely has slips out of Regency Era language, she also changes Darcy's personality a little - but explains that it's due to the head injury, so I don't really fault her for that. But I hated just how long it took Elizabeth to realize she loved Darcy. I mean I guess it was not that long, but she was so obstinate about still not liking him that it got frustrating. She often seemed to be tearing up, or blushing too. I got tired of hearing it.
But I realize those are little nit pics, so I am giving it a four. I don't think I'll read it again though...but it's definitely worth one read through
I really loved the first half of the book. It kind of felt like the movie fifty first dates. After delivering his letter to Elizabeth at the parsonage, his horse was spooked by thunder, and Darcy suffers a broken foot and a head injury. He forgets his proposal to Elizabeth, and repeatedly asks her for the hand over the course of two weeks.
What I liked about this book: She is a very good writer. I was grossed out by her description of Collins! Ew! I loved Colonel Fitzwilliam, Madeline, and Mrs. Wilkerson. I think they made the story even more interesting and they pushed it in cool directions. I just loved all of his proposals. My heart started to melt on the last few especially!
What I didn't like: She definitely has slips out of Regency Era language, she also changes Darcy's personality a little - but explains that it's due to the head injury, so I don't really fault her for that. But I hated just how long it took Elizabeth to realize she loved Darcy. I mean I guess it was not that long, but she was so obstinate about still not liking him that it got frustrating. She often seemed to be tearing up, or blushing too. I got tired of hearing it.
But I realize those are little nit pics, so I am giving it a four. I don't think I'll read it again though...but it's definitely worth one read through
February 1, 2015
I'm torn on what rating I should give Pride and Persistence. Since I really did enjoy it I will give it 4 stars even though there were a few things that really stood out and bothered me. What I loved was Darcy and how he was portrayed. He was just so sweet as he tried to win Elizabeth's heart. I loved how Lizzy handled Darcy and how she came to love him. There were so many funny and touching moments.
There were little things that I found annoying though. Some of the words and terms used seemed out of place. When the Collins' cook said "oh honey", I wondered if I was reading Gone With The Wind. Elizabeth constantly using the term "mind games" didn't seem to be something one would say in the Regency era. The same goes for Colonel Fitzwilliam and his explanation to Lady Catherine about Darcy's memory issues and his use of the term "complex thought process" just seemed very inaccurate for the time period. The constant reference to Mr. Collins' spittle and his hairy body were just gross and unnecessary. Lastly, Lady Catherine's love match story was just a tad over the top for me.
With all this said, there was much more that I loved about the book than I disliked. I just want to point them out in case there will be another printing allowing for some improvement.
There were little things that I found annoying though. Some of the words and terms used seemed out of place. When the Collins' cook said "oh honey", I wondered if I was reading Gone With The Wind. Elizabeth constantly using the term "mind games" didn't seem to be something one would say in the Regency era. The same goes for Colonel Fitzwilliam and his explanation to Lady Catherine about Darcy's memory issues and his use of the term "complex thought process" just seemed very inaccurate for the time period. The constant reference to Mr. Collins' spittle and his hairy body were just gross and unnecessary. Lastly, Lady Catherine's love match story was just a tad over the top for me.
With all this said, there was much more that I loved about the book than I disliked. I just want to point them out in case there will be another printing allowing for some improvement.
April 20, 2014
In this version of Pride and Prejudice Darcy suffers a terrible blow when he attempts to get on his horse in the rain and his horse gets startled at lightning after delivering Elizabeth his letter following his disastrous proposal. Elizabeth panics to see am unconscious Darcy. She quickly rallies to help Darcy - tending to his broken leg until the doctor comes. The doctor fears for Darcy's mind if he doesn't awaken quickly. He is confined in his state to the chaise in Hunsford. When he awakens he has forgotten about the accident and the disastrous proposal and is determined to propose to Elizabeth. Coronel Fitzwilliam and the doctor ask her to play along and try to delay her response as stressful and negative situations cause him to forget on a daily basis. Everyday Darcy's proposal tactics change,in love how Coronel Fitzwilliam convinces Elizabeth to endure "storms" as she doesn't want to live a lie. I loved reading about each proposal so different from the last and certain ones were my favorites like the letter and the assumed engagement. At what point does Darcy start remembering and at what point does Elizabeth want to accept? Slightly cheesy and some parts not as well written as others but overall a cute story.
July 1, 2016
Having read over 150 P&P variations you start to get a little burnt out and jaded. This book is a cure for both of those problems. This is a truly unique variation on P&P; set a Rosings the day following Mr. Darcy's disastrous proposal to Lizzy, the author takes you to new places and introduces new characters that only improve the story.
If I needed to sum it up I would be 50 First Dates - Darcy style. If you don't already love Mr. Darcy you will fall in love with him as he comes to grips with a temporarily incapacitating injury and temporary amnesia with the help of Col. Fitzwilliam & Lizzy.
The author's description of Mr. Collins in his nightshirt will make your flesh crawl. You find yourself pitying "poor Charlotte". The new characters the author has invented are well developed and well rounded a real asset to the story.
My only complaint and what kept me from giving it four stars was the story of Lady Catherine's true love. It was beyond creepy and detailed and unnecessary.
Otherwise the book is very clean and a nice read.
If I needed to sum it up I would be 50 First Dates - Darcy style. If you don't already love Mr. Darcy you will fall in love with him as he comes to grips with a temporarily incapacitating injury and temporary amnesia with the help of Col. Fitzwilliam & Lizzy.
The author's description of Mr. Collins in his nightshirt will make your flesh crawl. You find yourself pitying "poor Charlotte". The new characters the author has invented are well developed and well rounded a real asset to the story.
My only complaint and what kept me from giving it four stars was the story of Lady Catherine's true love. It was beyond creepy and detailed and unnecessary.
Otherwise the book is very clean and a nice read.
April 10, 2022
This it was a delightful P&P variation with elements of 50 First Dates (the movie with Drew Barrymore). The biggest issue I had with the story were the instances of deceit (however well meaning) which made it pretty clear for me it won't be a five star book. Another issue that would've not make an impact on itself but bothered me was the fact the characters acted too often 'improper' regarding the time period. Other than that it was very well made, witty, entertaining and plain swoon-worthy.
I plan to re-read this book sometime in the future.
Trigger warning:
Late in the plot is a part that could be very disturbing to some readers and makes it rather unsuitable for underage or sensitive readers - it's very minor and not graphic (just the facts) but still there
I plan to re-read this book sometime in the future.
Trigger warning:
Late in the plot is a part that could be very disturbing to some readers and makes it rather unsuitable for underage or sensitive readers - it's very minor and not graphic (just the facts) but still there
January 25, 2016
Real Rating = 3.5* / This book is not part of a series.
This review is not in my usual genre, but I have to confess that I am a closet Austenite. So when I was offered a copy of this book, I took it. It got off to a rough start, at first I only kept reading because I had promised to give a review; but I liked it more and more as it went along.
I listen to the original at least once a year, and the language and characters just didn’t feel same. In particular, Jane Austen was always restrained without being cold. This is a bit over dramatic in comparison. It wasn’t like some books, where I felt someone just took their own story, changed the names, and called it a variation for marketing purposes. But, it definitely had the feeling of a third party telling you someone else’s experiences. I would rate it middle of the pack for variations I have read.
I would have liked it to be anchored a bit more firmly into the original (i.e. start a bit sooner and include more of the original dialog). It starts just after rejection and changed some things from the very beginning (e.g. Elizabeth wanted to run into Darcy on her walk).
Once the main (Groundhog Dayish) part got started, it became very enjoyable. Once they are truly engaged, this book includes much more passion than the original, but remains clean.
NARRATION: Pros - I like the general sound of her voice. I appreciated that she did not attempt to overly distort her voice for male characters / Listened on 1.25 speed (my usual) / Cons - Although I can’t personally judge their accuracy, I did not enjoy her accents.
FAVORITE PART(S): The carriage ride back to Hertfordshire. It was a sweet scene between a loving Elizabeth & Darcy. / I also like that the author acknowledged that Darcy writing the letter was an impropriety. Some modern readers might not realize that.
I COULD HAVE DONE WITHOUT: The over-the-top disgusting Mr. Collins. It was his character which, more than anything, almost made me give up listening. / All the stuff with the chamberpot. It really didn’t feel Austen to me, and I thought it dragged on too long. / Lady Catherine’s backstory was an unpleasant addition which I feel was unnecessarily sordid.
OTHER WARNINGS: This book introduces additional Christian details not found in the original (e.g. Darcy is a praying man and the happy outcome is attributed to that).
MY RATINGS:
--Enjoyment: MIXED - I really wasn’t liking the beginning; then it got good; and then a few unpleasant parts were thrown in towards the end.
--Re-readability: MIXED - I will set some bookmarks to allow me to listen to my favorite parts.
--Narrator Impact: AVERAGE
I received this book free in return for an honest review, courtesy of Audiobook Blast dot com."
Pride and Persistence by Jeanna Ellsworth; read by Nancy Peterson; produced independently in 2014 / Length: 10 hrs 53 min (Unabr) / Available through Audible & Amazon plus iTunes
This review is not in my usual genre, but I have to confess that I am a closet Austenite. So when I was offered a copy of this book, I took it. It got off to a rough start, at first I only kept reading because I had promised to give a review; but I liked it more and more as it went along.
I listen to the original at least once a year, and the language and characters just didn’t feel same. In particular, Jane Austen was always restrained without being cold. This is a bit over dramatic in comparison. It wasn’t like some books, where I felt someone just took their own story, changed the names, and called it a variation for marketing purposes. But, it definitely had the feeling of a third party telling you someone else’s experiences. I would rate it middle of the pack for variations I have read.
I would have liked it to be anchored a bit more firmly into the original (i.e. start a bit sooner and include more of the original dialog). It starts just after rejection and changed some things from the very beginning (e.g. Elizabeth wanted to run into Darcy on her walk).
Once the main (Groundhog Dayish) part got started, it became very enjoyable. Once they are truly engaged, this book includes much more passion than the original, but remains clean.
NARRATION: Pros - I like the general sound of her voice. I appreciated that she did not attempt to overly distort her voice for male characters / Listened on 1.25 speed (my usual) / Cons - Although I can’t personally judge their accuracy, I did not enjoy her accents.
FAVORITE PART(S): The carriage ride back to Hertfordshire. It was a sweet scene between a loving Elizabeth & Darcy. / I also like that the author acknowledged that Darcy writing the letter was an impropriety. Some modern readers might not realize that.
I COULD HAVE DONE WITHOUT: The over-the-top disgusting Mr. Collins. It was his character which, more than anything, almost made me give up listening. / All the stuff with the chamberpot. It really didn’t feel Austen to me, and I thought it dragged on too long. / Lady Catherine’s backstory was an unpleasant addition which I feel was unnecessarily sordid.
OTHER WARNINGS: This book introduces additional Christian details not found in the original (e.g. Darcy is a praying man and the happy outcome is attributed to that).
MY RATINGS:
--Enjoyment: MIXED - I really wasn’t liking the beginning; then it got good; and then a few unpleasant parts were thrown in towards the end.
--Re-readability: MIXED - I will set some bookmarks to allow me to listen to my favorite parts.
--Narrator Impact: AVERAGE
I received this book free in return for an honest review, courtesy of Audiobook Blast dot com."
Pride and Persistence by Jeanna Ellsworth; read by Nancy Peterson; produced independently in 2014 / Length: 10 hrs 53 min (Unabr) / Available through Audible & Amazon plus iTunes
March 16, 2015
Enjoyed this variation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice very much. The ill fated "first proposal" was not remembered after Darcy's accident, and after Lizzy accepts and reads his infamous letter written against her reasons for not accepting that proposal. Even before reading the letter, Lizzy realizes that even though she still thinks he is arrogant, proud, and views all others beneath him, she is sorry for the way she refused the proposal and wishes to apologize to him. But, she cannot seem to get her thoughts together to get the words out of her mouth. Lizzy speechless! HA! Then the accident occurs. Lizzy is besides herself and rushes to his aid. She realizes your he is out cold, still breathing, and his ankle is broken. When he finally awakes, he cannot remember the days before that accident as well as the accident itself. She is the only one able to calm him, convince him that he indeed have and accident, his ankle broken, and he is not to move. The funny thing is remembers that he wanted to propose to Lizzy. Proposals two and three were not much better than his first. Darcy's persistence continues until "Lucky 13" was accepted. Funny situations in between happen to help these two lovers. And as usual, his Aunt Catherine and her rector, William Collins, are both a piece of work. Colonel Fitzwilliam has told Richard to threaten with the story of her own love marriage. He doesn't know the story so when she turns quickly on heel to get board her carriage, he and Lizzy are intrigued. Darcy's mother, Anne, knows and tells Fitzwilliam the tale and also informs him he is never to marry Anne de Bourgh. Lady Catherine was a very naughty girl. Quick read.
April 23, 2016
Second read (4/22/16):
The audiobook was well done. The voice for Mr. Collins was far worse than the man himself (I was seriously tempted to fast forward), but otherwise I liked it. I noticed some repetition in description (particularly of the aforementioned Mr. Collins) and some other things that were mentioned enough (how much Elizabeth liked the various food items at Rosings) that I rolled my eyes. Overall, though, it was still enjoyable. Sure, Elizabeth was quick to come around to Darcy, but most of the appeal of this story is Darcy and his memory issues, and the rest is sort of scenery.
First read (4/12/14):
What can I say? I'm a sucker for Jane Austen adaptations and variations. They can be pretty hit or miss, but this was a rather good one (3.5 stars). My only real complaint is that any conflict was pretty light, and the heavier conflict (mostly perpetuated by Lady Catherine, not shockingly) was short-lived. I enjoyed the amnesia aspect of it the most. The first half of the story was definitely the best for me. I wouldn't say the second half was dull (because it wasn't), but it was definitely less exciting.
The audiobook was well done. The voice for Mr. Collins was far worse than the man himself (I was seriously tempted to fast forward), but otherwise I liked it. I noticed some repetition in description (particularly of the aforementioned Mr. Collins) and some other things that were mentioned enough (how much Elizabeth liked the various food items at Rosings) that I rolled my eyes. Overall, though, it was still enjoyable. Sure, Elizabeth was quick to come around to Darcy, but most of the appeal of this story is Darcy and his memory issues, and the rest is sort of scenery.
First read (4/12/14):
What can I say? I'm a sucker for Jane Austen adaptations and variations. They can be pretty hit or miss, but this was a rather good one (3.5 stars). My only real complaint is that any conflict was pretty light, and the heavier conflict (mostly perpetuated by Lady Catherine, not shockingly) was short-lived. I enjoyed the amnesia aspect of it the most. The first half of the story was definitely the best for me. I wouldn't say the second half was dull (because it wasn't), but it was definitely less exciting.
October 29, 2016
Persistent Love..
This book was based on Jane Austin's "Pride and Prejudice" but was revised with a fan
fiction twist.
I thought that Elizabeth and Darcy were cute together.
The characters were well written and the plot kept me entertained.
I don't want to give too much away, but, overall, this book was definitely a Good Read.
Nancy Peterson did really well with the narration.
Note:
"This audio book was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review."
July 7, 2014
This rendition was imaginative and sweet. Darcy was a bit too sappy, (I hate it when Darcy cries in a book). Colonel Fitzwilliam was my favorite character, I laughed out loud at him! Overall an entertaining read.
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