The Second Chance: A 'Pride & Prejudice' - 'Sense & Sensibility' Variation

by Joana Starnes

Soon after the Netherfield ball, a troubled Mr. Darcy decides to walk away from a most unsuitable fascination. But heartache is in store for them all, and his misguided attempts to ensure the comfort of the woman he loves backfire in ways he had not expected... (New cover. Content Unchanged) Why is it that the worth of a true blessing is never felt as keenly as when it seems to have become quite out of reach? In this tale of ‘Pride & Prejudice’ meets ‘Sense & Sensibility’, Mr Darcy is compelled to reflect on this very question, as he struggles to come to terms with the effects of his wrong choices, and fervently hope for a second chance at finding happiness. “Well, sir, what shall it be? The joy of music or of the printed word?” she asked, in a manner so highly reminiscent of their past interactions as to make him almost giddy with renewed hope. “The joy of you. My greatest folly was to ever walk away from it.”

Genres: Romance, Regency, Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Historical, Fan Fiction, Fiction

350 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 24, 2014

About the author

Joana Starnes lives in the south of England with her family. She swapped several hats over the years – physician, lecturer, clinical data analyst – but feels most comfortable in a bonnet. She has been living in Georgian England for decades in her imagination, and plans to continue in that vein till she lays hands on a time machine. She loves to look for glimpses of Pemberley and Jane Austen’s world, and to write about Regency England and Mr Darcy falling in love with Elizabeth Bennet over and over and over again.

She is the author of ten Austen-inspired novels and a contributor to the Quill Ink Anthologies. Joana’s novels are all available on Amazon in Kindle Unlimited and in paperback, and some have also been released in Audible.

You can connect with Joana on: Goodreads ; Facebook ; Twitter ; Instagram ; Website and at Austen Variations or visit Joana’s Facebook page All Roads Lead to Pemberley for places and details that have inspired her novels.

Reviews

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Alright so this review is coming a bit late, and there will probably be many things I will forget, as well as maybe a few spoilers. I'm finding it really hard to review without spoilers, but I don't think I shall reveal anything major that will ruin the book for you if you decide to read it. There are a few things I wish to warn about though, so if I spoil, I apologize.

This story started out really great. I loved that the author chose to begin her tale at the part where Darcy is beginning to fear he is falling for Elizabeth, after she comes to visit sick Jane at Netherfield. It had a good premise, it was interesting, and I couldn't wait to read more. The first half of this book was very good, and kept me well entertained.

However. As I was beginning to wonder where the story was going, a misunderstanding, the unfortunate misunderstanding, happens, and from then on things just went downhill for me.

Darcy proposes to Elizabeth and is being accepted, in the middle of this book, without aforementioned misunderstanding having first been cleared out. That just drove me nuts. They literally AGREE to put the issue aside while Darcy decides to go on with his proposal(which by the bye, gets interrupted by Mr. Bingley, as D. chose to propose in the library at Netherfield. I don't know what is up with interrupted proposals/kisses, but they are NOT sexy.), and Elizabeth, even though considerably weighed down by said misunderstanding, mutually agrees to disregard it in order to enjoy a few days of engaged bliss. What?
This might be just a personal problem, and not every reader might be irritated by that turn of events, but it bothered me a great deal.

Also, I don't know if it's just because I am so used to reading Regency romances where the story ends shortly after the love declaration between the H/h, but I found that after Darcy and Lizzy's engagement (which, quick reminder, happens at about 55% of the way through), the book was just dragging on, and on, and ooooooonnnnnnn. Many chapters seemed to me to lead nowhere, and I got frankly bored of reading about Darcy's countenance illuminating whenever Elizabeth walked in, or how many times they sat down to take tea (which they did a lot! Did folks back then really drink tea and/or coffee all day long?), or the anxiety the engaged couple felt at having to introduce the other to their own relatives, and all attached embarrassment likely to ensue on both sides. I'm not saying those things shouldn't have been mentioned, but I don't think that many chapters were necessary.

It wasn't bad, to be sure, and I had quite a good time reading it overall, but in my opinion the book was too long. Moreover, the misunderstanding never felt to me to have been truly resolved, it just kinda laid there, brushed aside and forgotten. That bugged me, but again, it might be a totally personal issue that will in no way diminish your, dear reader kind enough to read this ranting review, enjoyment of The Second Chance. The writing is excellent, elegant and flows nicely, and I loved the insight we had in Darcy's thoughts. One of the main reasons why I have decided to indulge in Jane Austen fan fiction is to get that insight into Darcy's thoughts that is missing in the original P&P, and I thought the author did a really job here.

The addition of some of the characters from Sense and Sensibility was fun, although a bit useless on certain points. None of them had key roles, but it was lovely to see them interact with the Bennets. Colonel Brandon was a bit more significant than the rest, and I really enjoyed his character. Georgiana was another that I really liked, as I have always had a fondness for the girl, and I liked her appearances a lot.

Overall, The Second Chance was a good book, and even though I had a few problems with it along the way, I would still recommend it to Jane Austen fans. Maybe not as a starter for JAFF, but if Austen spin-offs are your thing, this one is worth a try. :)

[Claudine DiMuzio / Just Jane 1813 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another beautiful P&P variation!!! P&P meets S&S...

I couldn't put this book down!!! It was haunting, painful, tender and poignant... Darcy comes up with an original plan to rid himself of Elizabeth after the Netherfield Ball and from there on, we witness a story of deceit, angst, regret and rebirth... Mixed into the plot are our favorite characters from Sense and Sensibility... It's just a brilliantly plotted book!!!

Starnes creates what I think may be the best conversations between Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam, which for me are key to a great P&P read!!! I love that the Colonel calls Darcy out because so few ever do.

The way Starnes incorporates Austen's own words into new scenes in her own text is another thing she does so brilliantly... The scene with Bingley reminding Darcy about his comments at the assembly... Loved it!!!

Now that I've read 3 out of her 4 books, I have a new level of respect for her work... She's a tremendous writer... Her writing is so crisp, concise and peppered with enough frippery to capture the essence of what's essential to her story... I'm off to read The Falmouth Connection...

[Sheila Majczan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewer Sophie said it all. This is a great variation on ODC. I loved how the author gave us so much insight into the characters' thoughts and feelings. Interesting twist to allow Bingley to have the clearer and more rational concept about marriage, his love and the "ton". The angst was compelling. And at times the poignancy brought tears to my eyes. Yes, keep your wits about you as the author puts JA's words and events into different usage. Loved the interaction between the doctor whom Darcy brings from London to evaluate Mr. Bennet and Mrs. Bennet, who is acting in her usual loud, annoying manner. Besides the characters from Sense and Sensibility being on the periphery one character from Northanger Abbey makes a cameo appearance.

The characters from the other JA novel(s) did little to impact the story but it was a little challenge to keep them straight. It was almost as if the author thought "Well, the Bennets must have some neighbors while living Derbyshire, so why not bring in our old friends and make them part of the story?" The argument in the background going on with Edmund Ferrars demands that you know S&S as we are never really told exactly what that is all about. And giving different fates to various characters made for interesting outcomes. Lucy Steele was always an annoyance to me so I had a smile to read of her dilemma .

I found the writing in this story to be excellent. The descriptions were not too lengthy and the plot development was well done. Yes, Darcy did have to chase Elizabeth around the country side but "good" - let him work for something this fantastic. I love how he finally came to realize that Elizabeth had become part of his heart and soul and that he could not exist without her. This novel was difficult to put down.

I have not read Joana Starnes' other work so will have to do so as I enjoyed this so much.

[Sophie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, the wonderful Joana Starnes seamlessly blends the characters from two of Jane Austen's novels; first Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion in The Subsequent Proposal and now Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility in this brilliant story, The Second Chance.

Starting off with the writing! I remember being very impressed with the writing in The Subsequent Proposal and it was just as brilliant, if not better, in this story! The style is just wonderful to read; it feels almost effortless as it flows so well and the language is perfect. It doesn't feel as though the author was trying too hard to fit with the era or imitate Jane Austen's style which was great, because I find when authors try too hard with it, it doesn't seem natural and flowing, but more forced. As well as flawless writing, Joana has an amazing talent for description, particularly getting into the characters heads and explaining their thoughts and feelings - she does it so powerfully! In addition to sad and intense emotions, there is also just the right amount of humour, which the author also does very well!

This story begins to explore a different path much earlier in the plot than most variations I have read (which is a lot by now!) which made a nice change. We join the story at Netherfield Park where Jane is recovering from her illness, and very quickly the story takes a bit of a twist! Whilst at Netherfield, Elizabeth receives a letter, rather reminiscent of the one received at Lambton regarding Lydia's elopement, but this time it contains the news that Mr Bennet has taken ill.

Given that we are much earlier in the story, Elizabeth is considerably less prejudiced against Darcy - Wickham hasn't come along yet, after all! Add to this the compassionate and caring side to Darcy which is seen for the first time when he comforts Lizzy after hearing about her father, Elizabeth's opinion of Darcy begins to improve much sooner as she realises that perhaps there's more to him than meets the eye. (And I can't tell you how happy it made me for Elizabeth, when Wickham does turn up with his 'tale of woe', to actually realise how peculiar it is for this relative stranger to suddenly blacken Darcy's character in such a way and after so slight an acquaintance! A sensible thinking, unprejudiced Elizabeth for a change!)

As the plot strays away from what we know to happen, other characters stories' pan out in different ways, as is to be expected, and characters such as Kitty, Mary and Bingley come into their own! (But I don't want to give all the clever and interesting changes and twists away!)

As I mentioned above, this author is really skilled at description. A lot of the beginning of the story is from Darcy's point of view and we get to see his inner turmoil and fight with this growing attraction for the unsuitable Miss Bennet! I really, really felt for him! It was interesting to see familiar scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth at Netherfield but from Darcy's point of view; what was he thinking during the walk through the Netherfield grounds when Darcy and Caroline meet Elizabeth and Louisa? And was Darcy really as oblivious to Elizabeth's presence during that long, silent half hour in the library, shortly before she is due to return home, as he appeared to be? (Incase you were wondering, no he wasn't!)

This continues through the story as he tries to deal with the choice he made to walk away from her, and then further still when he faces problems which are getting in the way when he is trying for his second chance with Elizabeth!

Elizabeth also has a very interesting journey through this story. It was fascinating to read about her thoughts, again so powerfully expressed, and how she copes with her fathers illness. What was also lovely was the effect his illness has upon the whole Bennet family; naturally illness puts things in perspective and we see the Bennet sisters grow closer and even Mrs Bennet is affected in ways you would not imagine! As the story progresses and the Bennets have to adapt to a new life, the altering relationships and dynamics between the Bennet's was really nice to read about.

Darcy and Elizabeth go through a lot - this book is certainly not without its angst! There is also an on-going game of cat and mouse for a while as Darcy chases Elizabeth round the country, literally- this was frustrating but also rather amusing at times!

What I thought was really clever was how the story we know between Jane and Bingley is sort of transferred to Darcy and Lizzy. It's Darcy who is persuaded (admittedly by himself!) to leave her, and then he realises what a mistake he has made and returns in the hope of a second chance, much like Bingley does with Jane! Joana very cleverly weaves in some of the conversations and the situations which we recognise from being between Jane and Bingley in the original, for example, he says "we have not met since the 26th of November, when I had the honour of dancing with you at the Netherfield Ball" when they finally meet again (and the chase is over!)

Other characters we love are brilliant in this story. A favourite would be Colonel Fitzwilliam! I always love to see more to his and Darcy's relationship and it was particularly interesting in this one due to certain actions on Darcy's part and problems which arise, and this results in some rather tense and difficult conversations between the two which was new and different to read. Another favourite is Georgiana, and her relationship with Darcy and also the Colonel. You can see how strong a bond the three have and I always love seeing more of them!

Another lovely change was that Darcy and Lizzy sort out their misunderstandings quicker and thanks to the better first impression at the beginning, come to an understanding much sooner. But is it then plain sailing for the couple? Of course not! There is still almost half the book to go which is filled with problems for the two, thanks to the likes of Lady Catherine and Mr Collins, members of Darcy's family, members of Lizzy's family and past mistakes which come back to haunt them! But they face these problems together which is lovely for a change. It also means we get to see the charming and more open Darcy for longer rather than just in the last few pages of the book! (Darcy is so very sweet and loveable in this story - so charming!)

As you might have guessed, the romance and passion is this story is wonderful, while it is completely clean. Tensions build as more and more problems seem to arise but Darcy and Lizzy manage to find a few private moments and steal a few kisses - and get more and more impatient for the wedding! (There are a few amazingly romantic and passionate meetings in the library - but I shall say no more!)

I realise I haven't actually touched much on the fact that the characters from Sense and Sensibility come into this story. If you worry about the characters being brought together you really shouldn't worry! It really works amazingly well as the characters from Sense and Sensibility blend seamlessly with the Pride and Prejudice ones. It seems so natural and right - like it was meant to be! Elinor and Marianne chatting away with Elizabeth and Kitty in one corner, while Lydia and Mrs Bennet are gossiping with Mrs Jennings in the other! The image just works, doesn't it? (Well, you may question Kitty but her character undergoes an interesting change, one which I loved!)

I really enjoyed having Bingley, Darcy, Brandon and Ferrars all in one room at the same time - that was fun to picture! Colonel Brandon and Colonel Fitzwilliam were old friends due their professions and having met during the war, which isn't an unreasonable idea!

The best part was when all the principal characters from Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility end up round one dinner table - hilarity and brilliance ensue! It just works and the characters really suit and complement one and other! It you still don't believe me, just read it and see for yourself!

(I will just put in here to fear not, for Wickham, Lydia, Lucy Steele and Robert Ferrars all make an appearance and cause trouble at one time or another! How, I will not tell.)

I have mentioned it a little, but I will just say again how I loved the clever use of situations and conversations we know but between different people and in different contexts. I enjoyed and really noticed it, in this variation in particular. A favourite had to be the classic Lady Catherine confrontation, but this time Darcy is on the receiving end!

I don't want to give anything away and so all I shall comment about the ending is that you will love it! After all the problems and anguish and the journey Darcy and Elizabeth, as well as me the reader, have been on, you really feel very happy for them and so content and satisfied - more so than I usually do with the end of a book! I think the length of the story helped with this, as you really get to know them, and the story isn't rushed at any point. It ends in a perfectly satisfying way, and with a very sweet epilogue to wrap up the different characters stories very neat and tidily!

Joana Starnes really has done it again. Humour, romance, tension and a wonderful mix of characters and story lines - it's got it all! I really got into this story (can you tell?), partly down to the length - but even though it was double the length of The Subsequent Proposal I still didn't want it to end - but mostly because this was so well written and such a clever, brilliant and different story.

All I can say is thank goodness it seems there is another story from this author coming out soon, and the extract we are given at the end for this new story, "The Falmouth Connection", really sounds intriguing and I can't wait!

Brilliant. Absolutely brilliant and very unique. Just read it.

[Ceri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Earlier this year I read and really enjoyed The Subsequent Proposal by Joana Starnes which featured characters of both Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion. When I was offered the opportunity to read The Second Chance by Joana, I read the blurb, and seeing that it featured characters from both Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice I assumed that it would be similar to The Subsequent Proposal but actually it was quite different.

The Second Chance diverges from Pride and Prejudice pretty early on. The story begins at Netherfield, where Elizabeth has gone to nurse her sister, and Darcy has realised how the second Miss Bennet bewitches him and is fighting hard against it. Elizabeth receives a note informing her of her father being found unconscious. Mr Darcy is very comforting to her when she receives this awful news, and offers the practical assistance of sending for his doctor from town. Elizabeth begins to see that perhaps she has had an overly-harsh perception of Mr Darcy initially, and he is a better, more feeling man than she previously gave him credit for. In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth is in the early stages of her dislike of Darcy at this point, and much of this is done away by his solicitous behaviour towards her. So much so, that when a Mr Wickham arrives on the scene and tells her a tale of woe regarding Mr Darcy’s behaviour Elizabeth is not particularly disposed to give it much credence.

Although Mr Bennet recovers, he is diagnosed with a heart problem. He could survive for some time or drop down dead, leaving his widow and daughters destitute. By this point Mr Collins has arrived and has made his position clear. Mr Darcy is rather more in love with Elizabeth at this point than in canon and he makes a crazy decision. Rather than chance that Elizabeth may choose to sacrifice herself to ensure her sisters’ future security Darcy decides to give her an alternative option. He feels that he is unable to marry her, as her family is unacceptable, but he could secure her financial future. He has a smaller estate that he decides to sign over to her family, pretending that it has been left to Mr Bennet by an old university friend, who wished to remain anonymous. This sounds extremely generous, and it is, but it’s also gambling with the Bennets’ respectability – if anybody found out that the Bennets had been given an estate by an unrelated man there would probably be an assumption that one of the Miss Bennets was his mistress, and it could have ruined their whole family. It’s a pretty selfish action considering that he would be gambling with their respectability and reducing his family’s fortune in one fell swoop and the only reason he’s doing it is to try to prevent Elizabeth marrying before he’s had chance to get over her. If any of the Bennets or their relations find out it’s likely that they would be extremely offended, and Darcy’s motives could easily be misinterpreted.

As it happens, by the time Mr Bennet passes away Mrs Bennet and her daughters wouldn’t have been destitute as two of them have already married and are in a position to support their mother and sisters. But, being in possession of the Farringdon Estate in Devon, they move there, where they meet some characters who we would know from Sense and Sensibility - Sir John and Lady Middleton, Colonel Brandon and the garrulous Mrs Jennings, who immediately becomes fast friends with Mrs Bennet. There is also a visitor to the area that we would find familiar; Colonel Brandon has another colonel staying with him – a Colonel Fitzwilliam, who is very taken with the Misses Bennet, and believes he sees some partiality for them in his friend Brandon. Soon afterwards there are further newcomers to the area in the form of a widow, Mrs Dashwood, and her three daughters. Elizabeth and Kitty Bennet soon become good friends with Elinor and Marianne. This is where the storylines of Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility start to merge, although differently to how Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion came together in the Subsequent Proposal. I thought the stories were intertwined really well – there were events from Sense and Sensibility that happened in much the same way as in that book, and other events unfolded differently due to the Bennets being there. If you are not familiar with the intricacies of Sense and Sensibility then I wouldn’t worry too much, this story is primarily focused on Darcy and Elizabeth and the Pride and Prejudice characters.

Since Elizabeth never reaches the level of dislike that she has to overcome in canon the main thing keeping her and Darcy apart is him fighting a relationship due to societal gap between them. In Pride and Prejudice, although Elizabeth knows that there is a gap when she refuses Darcy, she doesn’t fully appreciate just how much higher Darcy stands in society than her father until she sees Pemberley. At the time of her scathing refusal she acknowledges the compliment of such a man’s affections, but in the moment she doesn’t have time to consider it, as she is so angry at his slights toward her family. Here Elizabeth is much more keenly aware of the gap between them and I felt sorry for her – the humbling realisation that it would be a poor marriage for Darcy couldn’t have been a comforting thought, and this theme is explored in some depth.
‘She had never imagined that the disparity between Pemberley and Netherfield, or between Pemberley and every place that she knew, for that matter, would be so marked.’

We are privy to Elizabeth’s thoughts and feelings throughout much of the book, but we are also treated to Darcy’s as well. What would a Pride and Prejudice variation be without some suffering for our dear hero?! Well there is quite a bit for him here and frankly he deserves every bit of it! It’s due to his own pride that he doesn’t pursue a relationship between himself and Elizabeth from the Netherfield days when he first begins to love her, and all the other delays, misunderstandings and conflict arise as a result of this, so although he goes through the mill it’s all self inflicted, as his comforting cousin and dear friend informs him:
‘I never expected a blunder of such magnitude! You do everything in a grander scale than the rest of us, do you not?’

I very much liked the portrayal of the characters in this story – I felt that Elizabeth and Darcy were pretty close to canon, Mrs Bennet was portrayed affectionately, Bingley as a sweet man with a lively sense of humour, and I also enjoyed Jane’s character here, especially when she showed some unexpected protective tendencies. We are also treated to an absence of some characters who I am quite happy to do without!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Although it’s quite a long book and took me a while to read it never felt long. The storylines of Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility merged and intertwined naturally and the style of the prose was delightful - charming and witty and there are some bits which are downright funny. There are also phrases of Austen’s weaved in throughout the book, often attributed to different characters, as unobtrusive nods back to Pride and Prejudice that I enjoyed spotting. It’s such a romantic read too. I would wholeheartedly recommend reading this!

* I was provided a copy of this book, courtesy of the author and Leatherbound Reviews for my honest review, which was first published on Leatherbound Reviews.

[Suzan Lauder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joana Starnes must have had a hard time keeping track of where exactly Fitzwilliam Darcy was, what he believed, how he handled his mis-steps, and who he told his secrets in this novel, because she had so many fantastic twists. They were, however, easy enough for the reader to keep track of, which attests to her excellent writing skill. In addition, they became the central point for the conflict in this excellent tale.

The love story between D&E comes across clearly as the central theme even though they have a great deal of difficulty overcoming those twists indicated above. Some minor love stories are a pleasant addition within this novel and don't detract from ODC.

A few things got past me, leaving me stuck with a suspension of disbelief. Either I didn't read right, or the author just decided that it was okay to skip those things or write them off as something that no longer mattered. I won't describe them because this would result in a spoiler, and I don't believe in spoilers in book reviews.

In my opinion, some of the crossovers with Sense and Sensibility weren't necessary. However, others parts of the crossovers with S&S were pure delight and worked wonderfully towards humour and angst. S&S is my least favourite Austen novel, and knowing this crossover ahead of time gave me pause on reading this book. But Joana Starnes picked some of the best parts and did some creative twists there as well.

The author utilized head-hopping in her writing as well as a number of non-Regency words, so if you're a stickler for those items, this novel could be off-putting. However, readers will find that the early works of many JAFF authors will contain those style issues--we learn as we read and follow other authors' good habits. Otherwise, the book is well-edited and formatted. There's violence in the book, but it's non-graphic.

Disclaimer: I am a JAFF author and writing this review could be considered a conflict of interest, but I was a reader first, and my reviews are all impartial and honest.

[James S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sense and Sensibility merge. But only in a small way

The characters of Sense and Sensibility are here in the story but they not a driving force for the story. At least that’s the way I read it.

For Lizzy and Darcy to come together, happily, they have to wrestle and overcome their own weaknesses.

Darcy is proud and a little arrogant but his main roadblock is he must admit and overcome is he thinks, for his parents and his relatives, he must marry well, as defined by the ton. There is no way to sugarcoat it, he feels the Bennets are beneath him, socially and in respectability.

Lizzy is scared to death of any marriage where there is not both respect AND trust by each partner. She cannot risk a marriage like her parents have. She of course jumps to wrong conclusions easily and is quick to anger also.

The above personality traits occur and are important in many variations. But I’ve never read a better story that addresses them realistically and written such heartfelt thoughts and scenes trying overcome each characters fears and premonitions that a future together a marriage with the other is unlikely to end well.

A great book. Loved nearly every page of it. I recommend this story highly.

[Anna Fitzwilliam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Anne pretty much wrote what I would like to write about this book. This author is very good, no doubt, but I felt that the feelings between the main couple were very poorly developed. I really didn't understand how and when Elizabeth started to love Mr. Darcy. And after they declared their feelings for each other the story kept going on and on, aimlessly.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

this wild, wild west of the new publishing world, we are seeing more books being published and through many different avenues. No longer are traditional publishers the only way to get a book into the hands of readers as there are smaller independent presses, hybrid publishers and many self-publishing resources. In the past, I have been an unabashed on-line Jane Austen fan fiction reader. During the height of my on-line Jane Austen fan fiction (JAFF) addiction, I might have followed anywhere from 10 to 15 works-in-progress (WIPs) at various on-line sites. Anything from continuations (a story that continues after the original novel ends), alternative universe (a story when the author deviates from the original canon and creates events to effect a different action) and even crossovers (a fan fiction integrating characters and places from another story source). But I must confess, as many of these on-line authors have taken their stories to the next step and even stepped away from posting their new works on-line, I too have transferred my reading of on-line fan fiction to my e-reader by purchasing the published works and even adding the bound books to my collection.

One rainy day in December, I found myself reading in my pajamas all day author Joana Starnes’ newly released “The Falmouth Connection”. I was instantly engaged by the unexpected, surprisingly smart, and innovative handling of “Pride and Prejudice” in a very alternate universe where Elizabeth becomes an heiress to a fine fortune. Therefore, when Laurel Ann, our blogmistress, asked if I would be interested in reading Starnes “The Second Chance: A ‘Pride & Prejudice – ‘Sense & Sensibility Variation’ ” for review, how could I not jump at the chance!

“The Second Chance”, Joana Starnes’ second crossover novel of “Pride and Prejudice” with soupçons of “Sense and Sensibility”, commences with Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy still at odds at Netherfield but from there on, the story is all new. Albeit Darcy forbids himself to court Elizabeth because of her comparatively lower station in life and his obligations and expectations of his family, he cannot but be enamored by her verve and fine eyes. Alas when Mr. Bennet falls dangerously ill, he cannot abstain from coming to her aid. Not only does he send his own physician to care for the failing Mr. Bennet but makes secret arrangements to care for Elizabeth and her family should the worst happen and the girls lose their home to the heir apparent, Mr. Collins, an odious, groveling cousin. Unbeknownst to Elizabeth that Darcy has done even more than this one kindness of his own physician, her negative opinion of him does begin to change for the better. “He did not want her gratitude! ‘What is it that you want, then?’ The answer was simple and it came to him in a moment, readily accepted as the absolute truth. He did not want her gratitude. He wanted her love. Ah, but to what purpose? That was the material point!” But when the worst falls on Longbourn, Elizabeth soon finds herself removed to a lovely manor house in Devonshire.

Under the guise of an inheritance from one of Mr. Bennet’s old schoolmates, Darcy has gifted the Bennets his own Farringdon Lodge in Devonshire – and that is where we meet our “Sense and Sensibility” favorites: the Dashwoods, Mrs. Jennings, the Middletons, Edward Ferrars, and Colonel Brandon. (Do I unveil too much by appending that neither Jane nor Mary Bennet quit Hertfordshire because Fate has smiled on them at Longbourn in other ancillary plots?) Meanwhile, amidst the downs of Devonshire, romance and friendships blossom. I adored it so realizing Mrs. Bennet and Mrs. Jennings were now to be fast friends bent on making good matches for all the girls. “ ‘Well, it appears that you have missed your chance, my dear,’ Mrs. Jennings said to Elizabeth one morning, nodding significantly in the direction of Colonel Brandon, who was sitting away from the rest of the party in earnest conversation with Marianne.”

Whilst Elizabeth begins life anew in her Devonshire environs, Darcy, try as he must, cannot purge her from his thoughts. “She had been with him everywhere he went. She had been in the house in Berkeley Square, smiling at him from across the long mahogany table; she had walks through the halls at Pemberley at his side; leaned over his shoulder in the quiet hours at his desk in his study and cut his sleep and his peace with dreams of her, day and night!” Though he seems resolute to take comfort knowing she is safely situated at Farringdon Lodge, when he hears from Colonel Fitzwilliam another Colonel might be wooing his Elizabeth, he can only act as his heart demands…and see her for himself. But is he too late? Was the friendship they had only begun at Longbourn enough of a start? And what happens if she should discover the truth of his altruistic bequest?

Through a comedy of errors, Darcy and Elizabeth miss each other on separate occasions and when they do meet again, there is much frustration (for the reader, too) and share of vexation delaying the inevitable happily ever after that we wholly expect. Nay, demand. “How was he to tell her that he loved her and ask her to trust him with her hand and heart if she would not talk to him? If she could even bear to look at him?”

All the while reading “The Second Chance”, I had a niggling sensation that I had read this before. After a quick confirmation from the author via Facebook Messenger, it turns out Starnes had written it nearly ten years ago as “Steady to His Purpose”! It was a crossover favorite of mine when I discovered it at Derbyshire Writer’s Guild eight years ago and is thus once again. Note: this 2014 published version remains true to its original plot however, the structure is a bit varied and a couple new chapters have been added.

“The Second Chance” is certainly more of re-imagining where “Pride and Prejudice” characters meet up with “Sense and Sensibility” set partly in Devonshire. To me, the “Sense and Sensibility” characters are only tertiary forces to driving the Darcy & Elizabeth story forward. I was not overly invested in any of those side stories but the narrative was so sound, it was of little consequence to my overall enjoyment. Though the book cover seems amateurish compared to others on the bookseller-mart these days — and that may have been the only reason for me to have not read this when it was first released October 2014 — I look forward to reading more from this author. Blessedly, Joana Starnes writes our beloved characters much as we always envisage though in entirely fresh scenarios. She masterfully sprinkles some of Austen’s well-known phrases throughout even reassigning dialog to other characters to deliver. But the mingling of favorites from “Pride and Prejudice” with “Sense and Sensibility”, giving them new storylines to traverse, contriving a new pairing or two, speeding up the inevitable for some whilst delaying our satisfaction for others, made “The Second Chance” an engrossing and inventive read. Like with all my favorites, not only do I have this on my e-reader but have also added it to my book room as “I cannot comprehend the neglect of a family library in such days as these.” It’s a must a read in 2015. Sooner than later.

[Meredith (Austenesque Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility Variation

TIME FRAME: Jane and Elizabeth’s stay at Netherfield through November of the next year. Plus a lovely epilogue that takes place twenty-eight years later.

MAIN CHARACTERS: Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Darcy, Charles Bingley, Jane Bennet, Kitty Bennet, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Colonel Brandon, Marianne Dashwood, Mrs. Jennings, Georgiana Darcy, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner

SYNOPSIS:

When Elizabeth and Jane are unexpectedly called home from Netherfield to assist with an ailing Mr. Bennet, a concerned Mr. Darcy lends them some much-needed aid by calling for his London physician. Darcy also helps the Bennets out in another big (and secretive) way…but this kind and magnanimous gesture isn’t one they would thank him for if they knew… After months of inner turmoil and conflict, Darcy realizes that he is hopeless without Elizabeth and sets out to maker her an offer. But he may be too late, there might already be another who has won her heart…and his secret good deed might be something he earnestly regrets.

WHAT I LOVED:

- A Skilled Storyteller: This is the third novel I read by Joana Starnes I’ve read this past year, and I find myself very much in love with her writing. The expressive tone, the thoughtful and reverent approach to Jane Austen’s characters and plots, the playful narratives, the winks at social commentary – Joana Starnes is a brilliant writer.

- Mr. Darcy Feels Deeply: Just as with The Subsequent Proposal, Ms. Starnes portrays a very emotional Darcy – full of turmoil, his head against his heart, brimming with ardent devotion and strong affection. *sigh* I love my Darcy’s like this! Definitely a bit of a Byronic hero in this novel!

- Lovely Relationships: I just adored seeing the characters of Sense and Sensibility interact with the Bennets and Darcys! Mrs. Bennet being besties with Mrs. Jennings (could that relationship BE any more perfect?!?), Marianne Dashwood befriending Georgiana with their shared interest, Colonel Fitzwilliam paying a visit to Colonel Brandon – it all worked so well! I especially loved the bit where Elizabeth draws out Colonel Brandon and rumors and expectations start to fly about them! (uh oh, Darcy!!)

- Lovely Relationships Part Two: (That’s right, there’s more!) With Jane and Mary married earlier in the book, Elizabeth and Kitty become a lot closer. I loved seeing these two sisters share some walks and talks together! And as always, I enjoyed the brotherly love, teasing, and interference of Colonel Fitzwilliam. His support and protection for Darcy are unparalleled. In addition, I enjoyed seeing a more decisive Mr. Bingley, who proves his loyalty to Elizabeth and a stronger Jane Bingley, who speaks her mind to Mr. Darcy.

WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:

- Maybe Too Much Going On: This variation definite has more twists – Mr. Bennet falls sick, Bingley has more resolve and marries Jane, Mr. Collins marries Mary, the Bennet’s move to Devonshire and meet the Dashwoods. Sometimes it felt like there might be too much happening and too many characters to follow. Especially when some characters and story-lines seemed to fade away – I really enjoyed Kitty’s budding relationship with Elizabeth in the first half of the book, but I was sad to see that they hardly had any interaction with each other in the second half.

CONCLUSION:

I was completely swept up by this evocative and gripping variation! I love Ms. Starnes’s emotive and imaginative prose, and I greatly appreciate her faithful and perceptive renderings. Ms. Starnes’s passion for Jane Austen and her talent as an author truly shine in each of her novels.

[J. W. Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

The road to HEA is fraught with decisions and not all of them good ones.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to read Mr. Darcy’s thoughts? That is exactly what we get to do in this JAFF. In fact we get to read the thoughts of many pivotal P&P characters.

There are several excellent reviews already presented by Sophie, S.L. Majczan, and Christina Boyd [Vine Voice]. They helped me decide that I wanted to read this JAFF. Thanks guys for the excellent reviews.

In this stirring version of our beloved P&P classic, we are privy to the intimate thoughts and desires of Fitzwilliam Darcy as he struggles with finding himself in love with Elizabeth Bennet. We are in his head for a good portion of the book. We also know the thoughts and desires of Elizabeth.

There are several levels of acceptance as we advance in Darcy’s mind quest for happiness. First up, his rejection of her for all the reasons society and his family would present. He knows them all too well. He constantly repeats them in order to convince himself that he cannot have her, should not.
Next, his avowal [as he walks away] that, he will always love her, and he only wants the best for her and her family. This is the basis for his faulty decision that could have destroyed them all. If it were made known, she and her family would suffer immeasurable harm, more so then he and his. Society would forgive him as a rake, but would have crucified her and her sisters.

Next, his acceptance that he cannot live without her, and his quest to find a way to make amends to her and her family. The ultimate test is when he is faced with the prospect of her possibly loving another. Can he endure it? Can he move on with his life?

Finally, his struggles as he attempts to gain her affection, and his ultimate goal, her hand in marriage. This is the most difficult part as the rest of the story is fraught with misunderstandings, interfering relatives, and missed opportunities. La, I needed something to calm my nerves.

Starnes was so creative with the intersection between P&P characters with those from Sense and Sensibility and other JA novels. The juxtaposition of conversations from one character to another always kept me on edge. You never knew who would say those favorite lines we love so well. It was fun, and rather shocking, following the marriage match up with characters we didn’t expect. How fun. Hey, it is a variation so the author gets to have a little fun. I enjoyed the mix-up. And, in reality, some of the changes were appropriate and I could see how it would work. Great job with the Wickham situation, I couldn’t help but laugh out loud…so creative, KUDOS on that alone.

I simply loved the Epilogue. It wrapped everything up so nicely and was a most excellent surprise.

Note to readers and reviewers: Those accustomed to reading the quick and dirty novellas will not enjoy or appreciate the thoroughness of the work here. They will think it is too long. Well, if you want a novella, then read novellas. Don’t carp on the full length of a novel when you know the number of pages before you start reading it.

[Tlotem · Rating 4 out of 5]

I find it difficult to rate this book. The more I think about it, the more depth I discover!
I very much enjoyed:
- Bingley's response to Darcy when he tried to advice him against marrying Jane.
- How Darcy wanted to help Elizabeth at all cost when he was much under his family's duty state of mind.
- Devonshire with its wild countryside was well suited to Elizabeht's love of outdoors.
- The interactions with the characters of Sense and Sensibility.
- The way Darcy was getting a real telling of by his cousin Fitzwilliam.
- Jane beeing very protective towards Elizabeth.
- How the author raised the level and intensity of love between our Dear Couple along the story.
I'm more a woman of action, so sometimes I got a bit bored when beeing too long in Darcy's thoughts!

[Les · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a trick book to rate while I was reading it I would give it five stars but upon completion and reflection I would give it a 3 1/2 so I split the difference and gave it 4.

This book is a well done meshing of P&P and S&S. Darcy & Elizabeth are the stars and much of canon is abandoned to fit the plot but it is still enjoyable. A book with so many characters leads to many being skimmed over and some plot points dropped.

The book begins as Lizzy and Jane are staying at Netherfield. We are immediately made aware how much Mr. Darcy feels for Elizabeth and how he allows his head to rule his heart to regulate his feelings. When Mr. Bennet falls ill Darcy moves heaven and earth to assure his health but once Mr. Collins arrives he decides to do more. Following the Netherfield Ball; with less prejudice since Lizzy isn't open to Mr. Wickham's lies and half truths regarding the Darcy family, Mr. Darcy leaves for town. Bingley remains and soon both Jane and Mary Bennet are engaged. Darcy stays away to avoid the siren song that is Elizabeth Bennet. Through the Spring Darcy mopes, sulks and sighs his way through life, no woman is Elizabeth's equal. When she and Darcy are briefly reunited she seems indifferent even disinterested. He is convinced she loves another and sulks accordingly. After some misunderstanding Darcy and Lizzy are reunited and quickly engaged. Which in itself seems odd because while Darcy is desperately in love with Lizzy we have been given no indication of her interest in him until she seems miffed he hasn't professed his love for her. And as others have noted it occurs at about ½ way through the book and I immediately wondered how will the author fill the rest? It is filled with misunderstandings, arguments, different people doubting Darcy's sincerity and ball.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite Pride and Prejudice variations! Soph's review is a great overview without giving anything away.
The author has done a great job at blending the characters from 2 novels - Pride & Prejudice and Sense & Sensibility. When Elizabeth's father becomes ill while she is at Netherfield nursing Jane she quickly sees a different side to Darcy. When he brings in his own physician from London, Elizabeth sees the caring side of Darcy which starts the process of her altered opinion of him. By the time Wickham comes on the scene with his tale of woe, Elizabeth sees right through him and doesn't take it to heart. I loved Bingleys determination to make his own decisions in this novel and he does not run from Jane but rather Darcy runs. He is concerned about Elizabeth's future should Mr Bennet not survive and he works out an arrangement to protect her and her family as an unnamed benefactor. However, this will come to bite him near the end and cause much emotional turmoil when discovered!
Elizabeth forms a close relationship with the Dashwood girls and her good natured way with Colonel Brandon is misinterpreted by Darcy when he bumps into them in London. I loved how the author got into Darcy's head and we hear his emotional turmoil first as he is trying to distance himself away from Elizabeth and them when he is determined to get a second chance not knowing whether she is attached to Brandon or not.
In this version MaryAnn Dashwood is saved by Brandon not Willoughby and thus saves herself much heartache when she falls for a Brandon right away. Elinor finds happiness as well as Lucy Steeles is the object of Wickhams schemes. Mary gets settled quickly as does the happiness between Jane and Bingley. With Jane married so quickly in this version, Elizabeth grows closer to Kitty. By the time Darcy determines he cannot and will not love without Elizabeth it seems like it may be too late as he galavants across the country looking for her. The feelings of both are clear when they meet but yet they are both too shy to give any true indication. I loved his proposal! It was spontaneous but romantic but as this occurs in the middle of the novel there is much these two will have to endure before their marriage! Jane becomes quite protective of Elizabeth and Elizabeth even tries to protect herself from Darcy at times. Add Lady Catherine, Richard, Georgiana to this experience and it gets more interesting! The path to love is not easy but worth the ride in this novel! Can't wait for this authors next book!

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unsatisfying

The main conflict in the story is resolved around 60% and nothing of much value is added to the plot thereafter. My rating is generous. I’ve read several of the authors other books and enjoyed them, but I’m really not sure what the point of this book was, except perhaps to imagine what would happen if Elizabeth had been friends with the Dashwoods. Yet those relationships aren’t really explored (presumably they happen off the page) — so, again I wonder, what was the point? I couldn’t find one.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's fun to read P&P characters interacting with characters from other Austen novels, in this case Sense & Sensibility. At one point Darcy is jealous of Col. Brandon for his easiness in Elizabeth's company. Lots of suffering & misunderstandings as well. Good stuff!

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

One rainy day in December, I found myself reading in my pajamas all day author Joana Starnes’ newly released “The Falmouth Connection”. I was instantly engaged by the unexpected, surprisingly smart, and innovative handling of “Pride and Prejudice” in a very alternate universe where Elizabeth becomes an heiress to a fine fortune. Therefore, when Laurel Ann, our blogmistress, asked if I would be interested in reading Starnes “The Second Chance: A ‘Pride & Prejudice – ‘Sense & Sensibility Variation’ ” for review, how could I not jump at the chance!
“The Second Chance”, Joana Starnes' second crossover novel of “Pride and Prejudice” with soupçons of “Sense and Sensibility”, commences with Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy still at odds at Netherfield but from there on, the story is all new. Albeit Darcy forbids himself to court Elizabeth because of her comparatively lower station in life and his obligations and expectations of his family, he cannot but be enamored by her verve and fine eyes. Alas when Mr. Bennet falls dangerously ill, he cannot abstain from coming to her aid. Not only does he send his own physician to care for the failing Mr. Bennet but makes secret arrangements to care for Elizabeth and her family should the worst happen and the girls lose their home to the heir apparent, Mr. Collins, an odious, groveling cousin. Unbeknownst to Elizabeth that Darcy has done even more than this one kindness of his own physician, her negative opinion of him does begin to change for the better. “He did not want her gratitude! ‘What is it that you want, then?’ The answer was simple and it came to him in a moment, readily accepted as the absolute truth. He did not want her gratitude. He wanted her love. Ah, but to what purpose? That was the material point!” But when the worst falls on Longbourn, Elizabeth soon finds herself removed to a lovely manor house in Devonshire.
Under the guise of an inheritance from one of Mr. Bennet’s old schoolmates, Darcy has gifted the Bennets his own Farringdon Lodge in Devonshire – and that is where we meet our “Sense and Sensibility” favorites: the Dashwoods, Mrs. Jennings, the Middletons, Edward Ferrars, and Colonel Brandon. (Do I unveil too much by appending that neither Jane nor Mary Bennet quit Hertfordshire because Fate has smiled on them at Longbourn in other ancillary plots?) Meanwhile, amidst the downs of Devonshire, romance and friendships blossom. I adored it so realizing Mrs. Bennet and Mrs. Jennings were now to be fast friends bent on making good matches for all the girls. “ ‘Well, it appears that you have missed your chance, my dear,’ Mrs. Jennings said to Elizabeth one morning, nodding significantly in the direction of Colonel Brandon, who was sitting away from the rest of the party in earnest conversation with Marianne.”
Whilst Elizabeth begins life anew in her Devonshire environs, Darcy, try as he must, cannot purge her from his thoughts. “She had been with him everywhere he went. She had been in the house in Berkeley Square, smiling at him from across the long mahogany table; she had walks through the halls at Pemberley at his side; leaned over his shoulder in the quiet hours at his desk in his study and cut his sleep and his peace with dreams of her, day and night!” Though he seems resolute to take comfort knowing she is safely situated at Farringdon Lodge, when he hears from Colonel Fitzwilliam another Colonel might be wooing his Elizabeth, he can only act as his heart demands…and see her for himself. But is he too late? Was the friendship they had only begun at Longbourn enough of a start? And what happens if she should discover the truth of his altruistic bequest?
Through a comedy of errors, Darcy and Elizabeth miss each other on separate occasions and when they do meet again, there is much frustration (for the reader, too) and share of vexation delaying the inevitable happily ever after that we wholly expect. Nay, demand. “How was he to tell her that he loved her and ask her to trust him with her hand and heart if she would not talk to him? If she could even bear to look at him?”
All the while reading “The Second Chance”, I had a niggling sensation that I had read this before. After a quick confirmation from the author via Facebook Messenger, it turns out Starnes had written it nearly ten years ago as “Steady to His Purpose”! It was a crossover favorite of mine when I discovered it at Derbyshire Writer’s Guild eight years ago and is thus once again. Note: this 2014 published version remains true to its original plot however, the structure is a bit varied and a couple new chapters have been added.
“The Second Chance” is certainly more of re-imagining where “Pride and Prejudice” characters meet up with “Sense and Sensibility” set partly in Devonshire. To me, the “Sense and Sensibility” characters are only tertiary forces to driving the Darcy & Elizabeth story forward. I was not overly invested in any of those side stories but the narrative was so sound, it was of little consequence to my overall enjoyment. Though the book cover seems amateurish compared to others on the bookseller-mart these days -- and that may have been the only reason for me to have not read this when it was first released October 2014 -- I look forward to reading more from this author. Blessedly, Joana Starnes writes our beloved characters much as we always envisage though in entirely fresh scenarios. She masterfully sprinkles some of Austen’s well-known phrases throughout even reassigning dialog to other characters to deliver. But the mingling of favorites from “Pride and Prejudice” with “Sense and Sensibility”, giving them new storylines to traverse, contriving a new pairing or two, speeding up the inevitable for some whilst delaying our satisfaction for others, made “The Second Chance” an engrossing and inventive read. Like with all my favorites, not only do I have this on my e-reader but have also added it to my book room as “I cannot comprehend the neglect of a family library in such days as these.” It’s a must a read in 2015. Sooner than later. 4 1/2 stars

[Sarah TheAromaofBooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

The concept here was super fun, but the execution felt flat.

[Barbara K. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a Pride and Prejudice variation that is wonderfully true to the original characters, and is beautifully written, but could have used some serious content editing, and in spite of that I still loved it, right up to the point where I thought it should have ended, at about the 70% mark. There is also some crossover from Sense and Sensibility. I enjoyed the interweaving of S&S here. But the story went on way too long at the end, once all the conflict seems to be resolved.

The story begins during Elizabeth's stay at Netherfield to care for her sister Jane, who has fallen ill while visiting there. Mr. Bennet falls suddenly ill, and Elizabeth is called home to help care for him. Her mother has helplessly taken to her own bed, certain Mr. Bennet is about to die and they'll all lose their home. So Elizabeth takes over.

While Mr. Bennet is ill, Mr. Collins arrives for his awkward visit. Mr. Darcy, already finding himself secretly besotted with Elizabeth but unwilling to declare his feelings for her or even let on to his friend that he's at all interested in her, nonetheless wants to help her and her family. He sends for his own physician from London to treat Mr. Bennet. Then he happens to be calling at Longbourn when Mr. Collins arrives for his visit, and overhears Collins talking about the entailment and wanting to make amends. Darcy and Bingley both leave, but realize this is a horrible time for the family to have a visitor, so they turn back suddenly and offer Bingley's carriage to take Mr. Collins to the local inn.

Darcy realizes Mr. Collins is probably hoping to find a wife from among the Bennet sisters, and while Darcy is not willing to declare his love for Elizabeth and in fact still considers her and especially her family unsuitable, he realizes he wouldn't wish a marriage to Mr. Collins on any woman. He is so disturbed by this notion that Darcy comes up with what he thinks may be a permanent solution to the entailment problem.

After Bingley and Jane become engaged, which comes at the beginning of this variation, and their upcoming marriage is announced at the Netherfield ball, Darcy leaves for London, planning never to see Elizabeth Bennet again if he can help it. But he soon realizes that living without her is going to be more difficult than he imagined. In fact he finds it impossible to be at peace again without her.

I must say I loved the idea of this variation, especially of what I'll call Darcy's grand faux pas, which I thought was a lovely gesture of unconditional love in spite of all its inherent problems, and I liked getting inside Darcy's mind to such a degree. This story carried him from inscrutable to almost too scrutable at times. The book definitely has its problems, mainly in the plotting and going on too long after I felt the story was over, but I'm still very glad I read it, and I recommend it, with strong reservations, to those who love P&P, and variations on it.

I applaud the author on absolutely beautiful language, true to Jane Austen, true to the time period, and true to my deepest feelings about the original story, and that is saying a lot. Great writing.

The portion of the story that led from Darcy leaving Netherfield to his final declaration of love for Elizabeth, and her acceptance of him made for great reading. I thoroughly enjoyed it, even when it felt a tiny bit overwrought, and even when she accepted him before they had seemed to resolve the problem of Farringdon Lodge. I especially enjoyed how Elizabeth solved the little mystery when she spent time with Georgiana, and later the dialog between Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam when he harangued Darcy. "I never expected a blunder of such magnitude. You do everything on a grander scale than the rest of us, do you not?"

I did have a problem with the speed of the reconciliation, and as I indicated earlier, the story went on long after I thought it should have ended. That robbed it of a lot of its poignancy and strength, which disappointed me, because otherwise it was quite wonderful, and I think a good editor could have fixed it.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

'You are dealt the winning hand, and you still make a hash of it' says Colonel Fitzwilliam to Darcy. Probably my favourite line in this book and one that sums up the story. Darcy realises very early on that he is in love with Elizabeth, but prioritises the duty to his family. Unable to leave her family in the hedgerows when he realises Longborn is entailed, he donates an estate in Devon to the Bennet family, in the event anything happens to Mr Bennet... anonymously of course. What could go wrong?!

Consequently he suffers, as only Joana Starnes can make him suffer! He deserves it, as he does in Ms Starnes' books, and it is always fantastic to see how he comes to redeem himself.

The first half of the book is predominantly Darcy's struggles, and Elizabeth recognising her own interest but dismissing anything can come of it, refusing to make herself unhappy. The remainder is what feels like a long engagement, but with all the uncertainties, I was worried this wouldn't be a happy ever after! Mr Darcy's interaction with Mr Collins, and Lady Catherine is just brilliant. The large gathering at Netherfield is also good fun with so many of our favourite characters being together for an extended period of time.

This doesn't have the adventure as some of the others by this author, but is spread about geographically with the introduction of the Dashwood's and Colonel Brandon who make a brilliant addition.

[abmom · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a big fan of Ms. Starnes's writing. I love the way she never spoils the spirit of the original characters. She gives you a thrilling ride in their emotional rollercoaster in every page of her books. This book started the same way but some place after the proposal it abruptly stopped. After that it felt as if it was a collage of many other variations without Ms. Starnes's mqgical Midas touch. The characters from Sense and Sensibility don't contribute much to the story and they could've been any random group of characters. They were just there with nearly all of their dramas cut short and adding very little meaningful events to this story. And in the last few chapters, i started hating every single relative of our couple because they were just adding pages to the book without contributing much to the drama. In fact, the first thing that attracted me to the author's works was the intensity of the emotions she is able to rouse in you for the characters, was totally missing after the proposal. And after all the hue and cry about the devonshire estate and the expectation it set for an emotional drama , it was handled half heartedly and very fleetingly. This is a good book with a good story with beautiful narration but it didn't meet the standard I expect from my favourite author.

[Talia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like this author a lot. Looking forward to more from her.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is much more of Pride and Prejudice than of Sense and Sensibility in this delightful volume. The characters are all there: the Misses Dashwood, Colonel Brandon, Edward Ferrars, even Mrs Jennings, but they do not play a sizable role in the plot. However, as a P&P variation, it is quite satisfying.

Errors found in text: p. 24, Marry and Kitty nodded / Mary and Kitty nodded ; p. 39, company of one our neighbors / company of one of our neighbors ; p. 47, I have completely forgotten / I had completely forgotten ; p. 72, season could to lift it / season could lift it ; p. 98, the enormity of his misjudgement / the immensity of his misjudgement ; p. 107, Mrs Jennings belief / Mrs Jennings' belief ; p. 134, as was to see / as it was to see ; p. 151, for a few of days only / for a few days only ; p. 153, it was his cold impassibility / it was his cold impassivity ; p. 179, the enormity of the situation / the magnitude of the situation ; p. 182, never let them into the unpleasant secret / never let them in on the unpleasant secret ; p. 221, so different form the windswept / so different from the windswept ; p. 247, that Georgiana and herself had / that Georgiana and she had ; p. 266, lest they attracted premature / lest they attract premature ; p. 316, that he could scarce breathe / that he could scarcely breathe ; p. 322, need to tell he precisely / need to tell her precisely ; p. 332, to my wedded husband / to be my wedded husband ; p. 332 and p. 340, for better for worse, for richer for poorer / for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, ; p. 332 and p. 340, till death us do part / till death do us part.

[D M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can Mr. Darcy gain the heart of the woman he loves, or will he continually fail to win her ?

Fitzwilliam Darcy has come to regret the fact that he left Miss Elizabeth Bennet behind in Hertfordshire. His arrogance and steadfast devotion to the rules regarding position and connections have caused him to flee. The only trouble is ,he's finally comes to realize how much he loves her. Now, he's willing to go to any lengths to have a second chance to gain not only her good opinion but also her heart. This mash-up of Pride and Prejudice with Sense and Sensibility was interesting as it brought together familiar characters in a different combination. Misunderstandings abound but a beautifully resolved, as the interference of others are addressed and prior concerns are dismissed as they are no longer important as love and happiness. Enjoy! I certainly did.

[Mary Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Ms. Starnes writes a wonderful novel that keeps you entertained from start to finish. She does it in the novel with intertwining characters from "Pride and Prejudice," and "Sense and Sensibility." By combining both novels, she has a way of telling the story and keeping you in suspense as to what will happen next.
Naturally, in the end Darcy does get the love of his life but through a lot of trials and tribulations and sometimes sleepless nights dreaming of Elizabeth. Of course he holds secrets of the estate he gives to the Bennet family before the death of Mr. Bennet so the family doesn't end up in the hedgerows.
You can see changes in Mrs. Bennet, Mr. & Mrs. Gardner involving this gift. Also, Colonel Fitzwilliam was out of sorts when he found out what Darcy did.
I loved the novel and did enjoy the last part of the novel finding out about the progress of the Darcy family and the children. It made for a great ending!

[Jean Stillman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joana Starnes does not disappoint! This is the fourth of her books that I have read and loved. This tale combines characters and elements from Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility. Following the Netherfield Ball Darcy leaves Elizabeth behind, but cannot forget her. He makes some very bad decisions, feeling that if he cannot have her, then she should be not have to marry in haste. When he learns that another man may be ready to ask for her hand, he realizes that without her, he will have no life. In the pursuit of her happiness, he is willing to give up his own chance for happiness; but what if there is a second chance? Wonderful twists in the combination of the two stories. Loved it!

[Julieta · Rating 4 out of 5]

This variation of P&P by the consistently good Joana Starnes brings the Sense and Sensibility characters into the P&P plot as friends of the Bennet girls when Mrs. Bennet and her unwed daughters move from Meryton upon Mr. Bennet’s death. Colonel Brandon, particularly, torments Darcy, who fears Elizabeth may agree to marry the Colonel. The most novel part of the plot sees Darcy gifting a small estate near the sea to Mr. Bennet before he dies, giving the man peace of mind and ensuring that Elizabeth never has to accept an unwanted marriage proposal. Rescuing Elizabeth in her time of need, whether she wants it or not, is a trope also seen in other variations by Joana Starnes. Like in Mr. Bennet’s Dutiful Daughter, the plot here is believable and enjoyable.

[Ree · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank heaven for second chances
I won’t add much to all the other great reviews except to say that as always, I enjoy the books of Joana Starnes. She is a master at the narrative writing style. While I would wish for a bit more dialogue (for example, the conversation between Darcy and Mr. Gardiner behind closed doors was described through narrative as opposed to giving us the actual live conversation), her storylines are always wonderful and interesting. As to Farringdon—I wanted to scream at Darcy—just say it was for love! Highly Recommend

[Angela Clayton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fairly solid effort. Bringing Lady Middleton into contact with Mrs. Bennett was ingenious--these two are soul sisters! I also appreciated that Darcy's actions are inexplicable, almost to himself, and that he creates his own misery. I love any JAFF where Darcy has a rival, real or only perceived. In short, this one was a satisfying read.

[Miss-Evie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Darcy comes to his senses

I’ve often wondered how it would be if the Dashwood and Bennet sisters were friends, and would have loved to see this scenario fleshed out a little more. Nevertheless, this story revolves around ODC and that is always gratifying. You can’t go wrong with anything penned by Ms. Starnes.