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Some Particular Evil: A Variation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice
There is, I believe, in every disposition a tendency to some particular evil.
FITZWILLIAM DARCY WOULD HAVE NEVER IMAGINED the depravity dwelling in the hearts of those he thought he knew best. On the run from hired killers, he is forced into hiding in the mean streets of London with the only person he can trust being Elizabeth Bennet.
LEFT BEHIND IN KENT, Elizabeth Bennet is still reeling from Darcy’s presumptuous marriage proposal when she discovers the plot to kill him. Leaping to the gentleman’s aid, she helps him go into hiding and then sets about trying to learn what she can of the plot against him—all of which reveals, gradually, new insights into Darcy’s true character.
FALLING INTO A CLANDESTINE CORRESPONDENCE, she and Darcy share pieces of their hearts and together discover family secrets that could shake the very foundations of Darcy’s being—and put Elizabeth in mortal danger. Afforded a second chance at the sweetness of love amid the foulness of evil, will their romance prevail?
SOME PARTICULAR EVIL is a closed-door, second chance, enemies-to-lovers regency romance with a mysterious twist.
FITZWILLIAM DARCY WOULD HAVE NEVER IMAGINED the depravity dwelling in the hearts of those he thought he knew best. On the run from hired killers, he is forced into hiding in the mean streets of London with the only person he can trust being Elizabeth Bennet.
LEFT BEHIND IN KENT, Elizabeth Bennet is still reeling from Darcy’s presumptuous marriage proposal when she discovers the plot to kill him. Leaping to the gentleman’s aid, she helps him go into hiding and then sets about trying to learn what she can of the plot against him—all of which reveals, gradually, new insights into Darcy’s true character.
FALLING INTO A CLANDESTINE CORRESPONDENCE, she and Darcy share pieces of their hearts and together discover family secrets that could shake the very foundations of Darcy’s being—and put Elizabeth in mortal danger. Afforded a second chance at the sweetness of love amid the foulness of evil, will their romance prevail?
SOME PARTICULAR EVIL is a closed-door, second chance, enemies-to-lovers regency romance with a mysterious twist.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2025
139 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
April 1, 2025
Secrets, Suspense, and a Sweet Proposal: Stunning Debut!
This is the second debut author presented by Quills and Quartos Publishing I’ve read this week, and what a treat it’s been! Some Particular Evil by Emilia Stratford is a twist-filled story of multiple conspiracies, danger, and—always a must for a good Pride and Prejudice variation—love. However, it’s not one of those typical light-hearted variations, which makes it all the more impressive as a first novel. This is one of those reviews that will be hard for me to write without giving crucial spoilers, but I’ll do my best!
The intrigue begins almost immediately as Darcy becomes the target of hired killers disguised as constables sent to Rosings to arrest him on a trumped-up charge. The only person he can trust? Elizabeth, who sets aside her initial shock and disbelief after overhearing the constables discussing their nefarious plot. She takes swift action to warn him and, with the aid of a friendly Rosings tenant family, helps disguise him and get him to London. Through a secret correspondence, they share their hearts and uncover truths about themselves and each other, forging a connection Darcy had pretty much given up on, and one Elizabeth never expected.
The story is full of twists and turns that keep you guessing. Just when you think you’ve uncovered the villain, the author cleverly shifts your suspicions, leaving you untangling yet another knot of intrigue. With multiple conspiracies drawing out your inner sleuth, the stakes feel higher than ever as shocking betrayals and hidden family secrets come to light. The ultimate revelation is surprising, but in the end, the author ties all the threads together in a satisfying way, including our dear couple’s romance, which is never lost in this mystery novel.
This excellent variation combines romance, mystery, and just the right amount of angst. The shifting connection between Darcy and Elizabeth builds to a heartfelt and rewarding conclusion, complete with one of the more sweetly worded marriage proposals by Darcy I’ve read.
Sensitive readers might want to note that Some Particular Evil explores darker themes than many Pride and Prejudice variations and may want to keep the following in mind before picking up the book. There is a mention of animal cruelty, and there are acts of violence, including murder, that are integral to the story’s intrigue.
Highly recommend.
Kisses only.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
March 21, 2025 - Audiobook
Stevie Zimmerman provides her usual outstanding performance. What can be said about her that hasn’t been already. She is simply one of the very best narrators in the Austen variation genre. Another well done!
This is the second debut author presented by Quills and Quartos Publishing I’ve read this week, and what a treat it’s been! Some Particular Evil by Emilia Stratford is a twist-filled story of multiple conspiracies, danger, and—always a must for a good Pride and Prejudice variation—love. However, it’s not one of those typical light-hearted variations, which makes it all the more impressive as a first novel. This is one of those reviews that will be hard for me to write without giving crucial spoilers, but I’ll do my best!
The intrigue begins almost immediately as Darcy becomes the target of hired killers disguised as constables sent to Rosings to arrest him on a trumped-up charge. The only person he can trust? Elizabeth, who sets aside her initial shock and disbelief after overhearing the constables discussing their nefarious plot. She takes swift action to warn him and, with the aid of a friendly Rosings tenant family, helps disguise him and get him to London. Through a secret correspondence, they share their hearts and uncover truths about themselves and each other, forging a connection Darcy had pretty much given up on, and one Elizabeth never expected.
The story is full of twists and turns that keep you guessing. Just when you think you’ve uncovered the villain, the author cleverly shifts your suspicions, leaving you untangling yet another knot of intrigue. With multiple conspiracies drawing out your inner sleuth, the stakes feel higher than ever as shocking betrayals and hidden family secrets come to light. The ultimate revelation is surprising, but in the end, the author ties all the threads together in a satisfying way, including our dear couple’s romance, which is never lost in this mystery novel.
This excellent variation combines romance, mystery, and just the right amount of angst. The shifting connection between Darcy and Elizabeth builds to a heartfelt and rewarding conclusion, complete with one of the more sweetly worded marriage proposals by Darcy I’ve read.
Sensitive readers might want to note that Some Particular Evil explores darker themes than many Pride and Prejudice variations and may want to keep the following in mind before picking up the book. There is a mention of animal cruelty, and there are acts of violence, including murder, that are integral to the story’s intrigue.
Highly recommend.
Kisses only.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
March 21, 2025 - Audiobook
Stevie Zimmerman provides her usual outstanding performance. What can be said about her that hasn’t been already. She is simply one of the very best narrators in the Austen variation genre. Another well done!
February 10, 2025
Excellent debut novel that has Darcy on the run from intended assassins and realizing Elizabeth Bennet, despite spurning him, is the only person he's sure he can trust.
The Prologue shows a twelve-year-old Fitzwilliam Darcy enjoying the annual Harvest Festival on Pemberley's grounds. His mother, still not back to full strength since the birth of little Georgiana, stays back at the estate. That's the evening she disappeared from his life and was reportedly seen leaving with a carpenter who had been working there, leaving a squalling baby behind. Darcy has resented her ever since.
When the story proper begins, the grown Darcy is at Rosings, certain that he and Miss Elizabeth Bennet have an unspoken understanding and that she's just waiting for him to pop the question. In one of the few truly lighthearted scenes of the story, Elizabeth, who has discovered him sleeping in the study, is startled to find herself the recipient of a searing kiss...but he's still asleep and experiences it as an unusually lifelike dream. They're interrupted (and Darcy is awakened) by a knock at the door, and Elizabeth must hide.
Things quickly turn deadly serious. A constable has arrived to arrest Darcy for treason. The accused man is permitted to go to his chambers to gather his things, but Elizabeth overhears the constable and his companion talking. It's apparent that they've been hired to kill rather than arrest Darcy. She rushes to Darcy's room, relays what she's heard, and leads him to safety. In the midst of planning where he will go next, he tenders his proposal, expecting her to join him on his journey. It's a rude awakening when her response is the opposite of his expectation. He is furious with her and confused at having misread her so completely. But his life is at stake, and so he has to go.
And that's only the beginning!
The clever story bobs and weaves, leading the reader to question everything. More than one chilling mystery emerge, the most obvious being the identity of the mastermind behind the assassins, who continue tracking Darcy. Likely suspects take turns coming to the fore, especially as things in Kent (where Elizabeth continues to visit Mrs. Collins) get increasingly strange. In retrospect, the Big Reveal at the end isn't shocking, but I had not guessed correctly. I actually went back and re-read relevant passages, and the facts do add up.
The point of view shifts between Darcy and Elizabeth, who manage to correspond secretly and then reunite later in the book, allowing for misunderstandings to be addressed and the romance between them to blossom. The story places equal emphasis on Darcy's blindness to his superior attitude toward the lower classes while having to blend into an exceedingly poor neighborhood.
The quality of the writing is excellent, successfully creating the appropriate atmosphere and moving at a brisk pace that builds the reader's anticipation and emotions.
Content is clean.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Prologue shows a twelve-year-old Fitzwilliam Darcy enjoying the annual Harvest Festival on Pemberley's grounds. His mother, still not back to full strength since the birth of little Georgiana, stays back at the estate. That's the evening she disappeared from his life and was reportedly seen leaving with a carpenter who had been working there, leaving a squalling baby behind. Darcy has resented her ever since.
When the story proper begins, the grown Darcy is at Rosings, certain that he and Miss Elizabeth Bennet have an unspoken understanding and that she's just waiting for him to pop the question. In one of the few truly lighthearted scenes of the story, Elizabeth, who has discovered him sleeping in the study, is startled to find herself the recipient of a searing kiss...but he's still asleep and experiences it as an unusually lifelike dream. They're interrupted (and Darcy is awakened) by a knock at the door, and Elizabeth must hide.
Things quickly turn deadly serious. A constable has arrived to arrest Darcy for treason. The accused man is permitted to go to his chambers to gather his things, but Elizabeth overhears the constable and his companion talking. It's apparent that they've been hired to kill rather than arrest Darcy. She rushes to Darcy's room, relays what she's heard, and leads him to safety. In the midst of planning where he will go next, he tenders his proposal, expecting her to join him on his journey. It's a rude awakening when her response is the opposite of his expectation. He is furious with her and confused at having misread her so completely. But his life is at stake, and so he has to go.
And that's only the beginning!
The clever story bobs and weaves, leading the reader to question everything. More than one chilling mystery emerge, the most obvious being the identity of the mastermind behind the assassins, who continue tracking Darcy. Likely suspects take turns coming to the fore, especially as things in Kent (where Elizabeth continues to visit Mrs. Collins) get increasingly strange. In retrospect, the Big Reveal at the end isn't shocking, but I had not guessed correctly. I actually went back and re-read relevant passages, and the facts do add up.
The point of view shifts between Darcy and Elizabeth, who manage to correspond secretly and then reunite later in the book, allowing for misunderstandings to be addressed and the romance between them to blossom. The story places equal emphasis on Darcy's blindness to his superior attitude toward the lower classes while having to blend into an exceedingly poor neighborhood.
The quality of the writing is excellent, successfully creating the appropriate atmosphere and moving at a brisk pace that builds the reader's anticipation and emotions.
Content is clean.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 13, 2025
My Rating: 5*+
I love a good mystery and Pride & Prejudice variations. To have both combined in such a creative way made this an outstanding read! An outside-the-box story that pulls you in from the beginning and does not let go. Right from the start there is a subtle undertone of concern before things go completely wrong…especially for Mr. Darcy.
“Would he ever have the chance to say aloud what his heart was screaming in his chest? Would the moment ever come when he could tell her – show her – just how much she meant to him?” (quote from the book)
Spending time at Rosings Park and the parsonage is not a place I particularly enjoy. I always dread the ‘Hunsford moment’. However, in this novel, things take an unexpected turn. The circumstances under which Mr. Darcy gives his first proposal are very different but, in essentials the same. He is still the proud, disdainful man we all know. Elizabeth still refuses him. But it is the element of danger and need to flee that overshadows the moment. This was so well done. Elizabeth’s courage rises and her intelligence shines.
“How could I have been so wrong?” (quote from the book)
The book description gives a good idea of what to expect. There are some surprising twists and turn that have you thinking who the villain(s) is/are. You may be right on one but find you are completely wrong on the other. This was so well done. (I know, I keep repeating myself) But through it all, both Darcy and Elizabeth learn some hard truths about themselves…especially Darcy. And when they correspond with each, the door to their hearts is opened. I loved the journey Mr. Darcy goes through to realizing what is truly important. The friends he makes along the way were an important part of this. And his second proposal…swoon worthy!
“What could it all mean?” (quote from the book)
I am being intentionally vague as this is a mystery after all. One I highly recommend you experience for yourself. This is an amazing debut novel and look forward to reading more from Ms. Stratford in the future. Brava!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 10, 2025
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: Mature teen due to madness, death, destruction, treachery, and betrayal.
>>Angst Level: Moderate, even though I was biting my nails at one point
>>Tissue Alert: Have one handy. A major secret was revealed that was a tremendous shock.
>>Source: I received a free copy via Booksprout [12-11-24] and volunteered to leave a review. Prologue + 54 chapters + Epilogue.
Elizabeth and Darcy crashed and burned at Kent with his disastrous proposal. She was ready to throw him under the nearest carriage when men arrived at Rosings with an arrest warrant accusing Darcy of treason. While he prepared to leave with them, Elizabeth overheard them planning to kill him. They were not thief-takers at all. They would then escape to Scotland before his body was discovered. Elizabeth was horrified at this revelation and managed to slip upstairs and warn Darcy before they could take him. This was the beginning of Darcy’s run for his life. He changed his appearance, and how he held himself and managed to stay one step ahead of the killers.
Foremost in Darcy’s mind was who could he trust. Only Miss Elizabeth Bennet came to mind. He wrote her a letter and they established a correspondence where she reported on what was happening at Rosings. She then sent him accounts of the behavior of his relatives. Something was wrong at Rosings and Anne de Bourgh was acting strangely.
This story had me biting my nails as I could not decide who was evil and who was not. What were the strange happenings at Rosings? Who could she trust? Did she dare let on that she knew where Darcy was hiding? Had Wickham changed his stripes? Why was Anne acting so strangely? What happened to Lady Anne Darcy? What role did Colonel Fitzwilliam have in this story? The introduction of two new characters was a charming surprise. I adored Sarah and Tom-Tom.
>>Rating: Mature teen due to madness, death, destruction, treachery, and betrayal.
>>Angst Level: Moderate, even though I was biting my nails at one point
>>Tissue Alert: Have one handy. A major secret was revealed that was a tremendous shock.
>>Source: I received a free copy via Booksprout [12-11-24] and volunteered to leave a review. Prologue + 54 chapters + Epilogue.
Elizabeth and Darcy crashed and burned at Kent with his disastrous proposal. She was ready to throw him under the nearest carriage when men arrived at Rosings with an arrest warrant accusing Darcy of treason. While he prepared to leave with them, Elizabeth overheard them planning to kill him. They were not thief-takers at all. They would then escape to Scotland before his body was discovered. Elizabeth was horrified at this revelation and managed to slip upstairs and warn Darcy before they could take him. This was the beginning of Darcy’s run for his life. He changed his appearance, and how he held himself and managed to stay one step ahead of the killers.
Foremost in Darcy’s mind was who could he trust. Only Miss Elizabeth Bennet came to mind. He wrote her a letter and they established a correspondence where she reported on what was happening at Rosings. She then sent him accounts of the behavior of his relatives. Something was wrong at Rosings and Anne de Bourgh was acting strangely.
This story had me biting my nails as I could not decide who was evil and who was not. What were the strange happenings at Rosings? Who could she trust? Did she dare let on that she knew where Darcy was hiding? Had Wickham changed his stripes? Why was Anne acting so strangely? What happened to Lady Anne Darcy? What role did Colonel Fitzwilliam have in this story? The introduction of two new characters was a charming surprise. I adored Sarah and Tom-Tom.
February 14, 2025
True evil is being willingly evil. No one who errs unwillingly is evil. — Sophocles
JAFF readers know many real gems that deserve to be shared with a wider audience are hidden at online sites. “Some Particular Evil” is one of those gems, now polished and published.
No man chooses evil because it is evil; he only mistakes it for happiness, the good he seeks. — Mary Wollstonecraft
The book begins with a certain day in Fitzwilliam Darcy’s childhood. A mystery follows his mother and his life is changed.
Chapter 1 brings us to a certain day at Rosings Park, where the adult Darcy is pondering the nature of his attraction to Elizabeth Bennet. His nap is interrupted by knocking and conversation with his cousin.
“There is a man here, a constable.”
“What has happened?” Darcy asked, now fully awake and immediately cataloguing what kind of disaster or villainy could have occurred while he was secreted in the study.
“He wishes to see you, Darcy,” the colonel croaked. “He says he has a warrant for your arrest.”
A conversation is overheard:
“We will have the money and be in Scotland before his body even washes up. Now, go and smoke your pipe. I shall join you.”
A warning is issued:
“Mr Darcy,” she whisper-shouted breathlessly. “You must not accompany those men!”
And what constitutes evil, real evil, is the taking of a single human life. Whether a man would die tomorrow or the day after or eventually … it doesn’t matter. Because if God does not exist, then life … every second of it … is all we have. — Anne Rice
Elizabeth Bennet aids Darcy in escaping from Rosings.
He can trust no one — not even his cousin. He cannot return to his London home or Pemberley. Only Elizabeth can offer him support.
The safest place to hide is the last place anyone would expect: the seedy side of London. Darcy must learn, and learn quickly, how to appear as if he belongs there, that he has lived there all his life. And he must solve the mystery of who wants him dead.
No evil dooms us hopelessly except the evil we love, and desire to continue in, and make no effort to escape from. — George Eliot
Danger
Betrayal
Insanity
Mystery
Even a Happy Ending!
Don’t miss this one.
This is the very worst wickedness, that we refuse to acknowledge the passionate evil that is in us. This makes us secret and rotten. — D. H. Lawrence
JAFF readers know many real gems that deserve to be shared with a wider audience are hidden at online sites. “Some Particular Evil” is one of those gems, now polished and published.
No man chooses evil because it is evil; he only mistakes it for happiness, the good he seeks. — Mary Wollstonecraft
The book begins with a certain day in Fitzwilliam Darcy’s childhood. A mystery follows his mother and his life is changed.
Chapter 1 brings us to a certain day at Rosings Park, where the adult Darcy is pondering the nature of his attraction to Elizabeth Bennet. His nap is interrupted by knocking and conversation with his cousin.
“There is a man here, a constable.”
“What has happened?” Darcy asked, now fully awake and immediately cataloguing what kind of disaster or villainy could have occurred while he was secreted in the study.
“He wishes to see you, Darcy,” the colonel croaked. “He says he has a warrant for your arrest.”
A conversation is overheard:
“We will have the money and be in Scotland before his body even washes up. Now, go and smoke your pipe. I shall join you.”
A warning is issued:
“Mr Darcy,” she whisper-shouted breathlessly. “You must not accompany those men!”
And what constitutes evil, real evil, is the taking of a single human life. Whether a man would die tomorrow or the day after or eventually … it doesn’t matter. Because if God does not exist, then life … every second of it … is all we have. — Anne Rice
Elizabeth Bennet aids Darcy in escaping from Rosings.
He can trust no one — not even his cousin. He cannot return to his London home or Pemberley. Only Elizabeth can offer him support.
The safest place to hide is the last place anyone would expect: the seedy side of London. Darcy must learn, and learn quickly, how to appear as if he belongs there, that he has lived there all his life. And he must solve the mystery of who wants him dead.
No evil dooms us hopelessly except the evil we love, and desire to continue in, and make no effort to escape from. — George Eliot
Danger
Betrayal
Insanity
Mystery
Even a Happy Ending!
Don’t miss this one.
This is the very worst wickedness, that we refuse to acknowledge the passionate evil that is in us. This makes us secret and rotten. — D. H. Lawrence
February 9, 2025
Mr. Darcy manages to mature in adversity, while trying to unravel mysteries of the present and the past and still needing to preserve his own life. And Elizabeth, even from a distance, manages to prove herself a faithful ally in the mist of all the problems, while their relationship is rebuilt through letters.
The author managed to create a engaging work in which I didn't discover everything until the end.
What a debut!
The author managed to create a engaging work in which I didn't discover everything until the end.
What a debut!
February 21, 2025
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Fitzwilliam Darcy is in love with Elizabeth Bennet and thinks that they have an understanding.
Finding her staying nearby, is the only redeeming feature of a dull duty visit to Rosings, home of his irascible aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh and his cousin Anne.
Two men arrive claiming to be constables, with a warrant for Darcy's arrest for treason.
As Darcy readies himself to accompany them, Elizabeth overhears the fake constables planning to kill him on the way to London.
Elizabeth is able to warn Darcy, but is shocked when he proposes and asks her to flee with him.
Her refusal only adds to Darcy's despondency. She does however disguise him so that he can flee.
Darcy has to hide himself in low class Camberwell and must try to blend in, while he endeavours to identify his enemy.
This is an excellent debut novel.
Each time you think you have worked out who the villain is, the story twists in a different direction.
The character development for Darcy, takes him from being distainful of the peasants of Camberwell to valuing them as fellow humans with their own dignity and pride.
A novel with treachery, betrayal, madness and love.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Fitzwilliam Darcy is in love with Elizabeth Bennet and thinks that they have an understanding.
Finding her staying nearby, is the only redeeming feature of a dull duty visit to Rosings, home of his irascible aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh and his cousin Anne.
Two men arrive claiming to be constables, with a warrant for Darcy's arrest for treason.
As Darcy readies himself to accompany them, Elizabeth overhears the fake constables planning to kill him on the way to London.
Elizabeth is able to warn Darcy, but is shocked when he proposes and asks her to flee with him.
Her refusal only adds to Darcy's despondency. She does however disguise him so that he can flee.
Darcy has to hide himself in low class Camberwell and must try to blend in, while he endeavours to identify his enemy.
This is an excellent debut novel.
Each time you think you have worked out who the villain is, the story twists in a different direction.
The character development for Darcy, takes him from being distainful of the peasants of Camberwell to valuing them as fellow humans with their own dignity and pride.
A novel with treachery, betrayal, madness and love.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2025
5+ stars
January 2, 2025
Quills & Quartos has a surfeit of excellent new authors. Ms. Stratford creates a spellbinding thriller here and takes you on an adventure from fancy estates to the bowels of Regency London. Her writing is so gritty and precise that I could taste and smell those fishy "kippahs!" Our fallible hero's greatest act was to love and trust Elizabeth Bennet, for she is his beacon throughout his trials.
I would have preferred that Darcy's and Elizabeth's story remain the focus, without Colonel Fitzwilliam's or Jane Bennet's outcomes, but that preference does not affect my rating. The author vividly develops the new characters, who not only become Darcy's friends but also rank among my favourites.
I really enjoyed the weaving of Shakespeare's All's Well That Ends Well throughout the story. I think that this is a wonderful debut, and I hope that the author has more adventures for me to read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I would have preferred that Darcy's and Elizabeth's story remain the focus, without Colonel Fitzwilliam's or Jane Bennet's outcomes, but that preference does not affect my rating. The author vividly develops the new characters, who not only become Darcy's friends but also rank among my favourites.
I really enjoyed the weaving of Shakespeare's All's Well That Ends Well throughout the story. I think that this is a wonderful debut, and I hope that the author has more adventures for me to read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2025
Fabulous 5 star variation
A twisting, turning love story full of murder, madness and romance. The author deftly keeps you wondering who are the true villians until the end. Highly recommend this unique story. It is a keeper. Quills and Quartos publishers never disappoint. Like all other Q and Q authors, Emilia Stanford's stories will be an automatic pre-order for me
A twisting, turning love story full of murder, madness and romance. The author deftly keeps you wondering who are the true villians until the end. Highly recommend this unique story. It is a keeper. Quills and Quartos publishers never disappoint. Like all other Q and Q authors, Emilia Stanford's stories will be an automatic pre-order for me
June 13, 2025
Great story that kept moving. It has a good bit of mystery and lots of person growth.
May 1, 2025
Every year Darcy visits his aunt Lady Catherine and his cousin Anne in Kent. Only this year Elizabeth is also present, she stays with her friend Charlotte. Unable to resist Elizabeth Darcy spends more and more time with her. Unexpectedly, one day, a constable arrives to arrest him. Elizabeth, having overheard that the constable and his men plan to kill Darcy, helps him to disguise himself and to flee to the anonymity of London.
Darcy reaches London only to hide in one of the worst parts of the city. With only Elizabeth as secret contact he can only wait.
Elizabeth meanwhile tries to find out more about the killers and why they were hired and by whom? But she also finds more evidence of Mr Darcy's goodness and that she might have judged him completely wrong.
Will Darcy, with Elizabeth help, be able to uncover the plot? Will they find the culprits behind all this? And will their unexpected alliance bring the two to an understanding in matters of the heart?
This book is the debut of the author Emilia Stratford. And what a debut it was. The book was very well written and captivating. There were many unexpected twists and turns in it, therefore the search for the culprits behind the planned murder of Darcy never gets boring or predictable. That was very well done. The story was thrilling but not too much, there were very thrilling moments but it was never so much that it became very angsty.
I like the way the author played with the characters and our knowledge of them. At some point of the story I really began to question everything and was willing to accept every change for the new reality because everything seemed possible. Nearly everyone could have been the culprit as well as they could turn out as an ally. That was very well done.
I hope to hear more of this author and would definitely welcome more mysteries written by her where Darcy and Elizabeth must find the culprits together, a topic/troupe I very much like and enjoy.
I really enjoyed that one was not able to guess the solution from the beginning. Many may look suspicious but in the end they are not … or are they? I tried to guess the solution alongside ODC but like them was in the dark during most parts of the mystery. But it is all well explained in the end, all questions are answered.
Darcy's escape to London and Elizabeth staying in Kent is a lucky hasard for ODC, even if they do not see it that way first. Darcy, due to his need to hide, has a lot of time to think about himself and his behaviour. He stays in one of the worst parts of the city but soon he learns some lessons there he may not have dreamt of but which are necessary for a future with Elizabeth.
Elizabeth on her part stays in Kent but this gives her the opportunity to learn more about Darcy. This new knowledge changes her opinion of the man she once detested and she comes to love him.
I really enjoyed their disguised correspondence to keep each other informed and also to assure each other their esteem. The letters were equally funny as lovely.
If you like to know how Darcy, with the help of Elizabeth, escapes the hired killers and unravels the mystery behind it you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
__________
Addition for the audiobook:
The audiobook was narrated by the talented narrator Stevie Zimmerman. Like always her performance was a joy to listen to. I always like her narration very much. She gives each of the characters their own voice and therefore you are at any moment of the story able to tell who is talking with whom. I like that very much. It’s like sitting at the table with old friends and listening to their chatter. With her narration she has made an excellent book even better. I will revisit this audiobook often in the future. The story is such a good one and I enjoyed listening to this audiobook so very much
Darcy reaches London only to hide in one of the worst parts of the city. With only Elizabeth as secret contact he can only wait.
Elizabeth meanwhile tries to find out more about the killers and why they were hired and by whom? But she also finds more evidence of Mr Darcy's goodness and that she might have judged him completely wrong.
Will Darcy, with Elizabeth help, be able to uncover the plot? Will they find the culprits behind all this? And will their unexpected alliance bring the two to an understanding in matters of the heart?
This book is the debut of the author Emilia Stratford. And what a debut it was. The book was very well written and captivating. There were many unexpected twists and turns in it, therefore the search for the culprits behind the planned murder of Darcy never gets boring or predictable. That was very well done. The story was thrilling but not too much, there were very thrilling moments but it was never so much that it became very angsty.
I like the way the author played with the characters and our knowledge of them. At some point of the story I really began to question everything and was willing to accept every change for the new reality because everything seemed possible. Nearly everyone could have been the culprit as well as they could turn out as an ally. That was very well done.
I hope to hear more of this author and would definitely welcome more mysteries written by her where Darcy and Elizabeth must find the culprits together, a topic/troupe I very much like and enjoy.
I really enjoyed that one was not able to guess the solution from the beginning. Many may look suspicious but in the end they are not … or are they? I tried to guess the solution alongside ODC but like them was in the dark during most parts of the mystery. But it is all well explained in the end, all questions are answered.
Darcy's escape to London and Elizabeth staying in Kent is a lucky hasard for ODC, even if they do not see it that way first. Darcy, due to his need to hide, has a lot of time to think about himself and his behaviour. He stays in one of the worst parts of the city but soon he learns some lessons there he may not have dreamt of but which are necessary for a future with Elizabeth.
Elizabeth on her part stays in Kent but this gives her the opportunity to learn more about Darcy. This new knowledge changes her opinion of the man she once detested and she comes to love him.
I really enjoyed their disguised correspondence to keep each other informed and also to assure each other their esteem. The letters were equally funny as lovely.
If you like to know how Darcy, with the help of Elizabeth, escapes the hired killers and unravels the mystery behind it you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
__________
Addition for the audiobook:
The audiobook was narrated by the talented narrator Stevie Zimmerman. Like always her performance was a joy to listen to. I always like her narration very much. She gives each of the characters their own voice and therefore you are at any moment of the story able to tell who is talking with whom. I like that very much. It’s like sitting at the table with old friends and listening to their chatter. With her narration she has made an excellent book even better. I will revisit this audiobook often in the future. The story is such a good one and I enjoyed listening to this audiobook so very much
February 6, 2025
This was really well done.
January 26, 2025
I can't say just how much I enjoyed this. This was not what I expected from the blurb - the thriller or suspense was really just a framework to explore some character growth, self doubt; the nature of betrayal, loyalty, trust, love, grief, greed. I even was thrown a couple of times.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 3, 2025
Wow! Wonderful
The story begins during Elizabeth's visit to Charlotte Collins at Hunsford Parsonage. As per usual, Elizabeth dislikes Darcy, and Darcy is reluctantly in love with her. Elizabeth and Charlotte witness some strange behavior from Anne Debourgh. Then two men show up at Rosings, saying that they're arresting Darcy for treason, throwing everyone into an uproar. Elizabeth happens to overhear the two men speaking of their real reason for coming to get Darcy, and that is to kill Darcy in exchange for a payment of money. Elizabeth is able to secretly warn Darcy, and help him go into hiding disguised as a common laborer. Elizabeth becomes Darcy's only link to the outside world, and she quickly learns how wrong she was about him and many other things.
The book is aptly named, as there are so many evil villains in this story, and some are real doozies. Fortunately, the romance is superb. We're given a swoon worthy Darcy, and a smart, courageous Elizabeth who thankfully changes her mind swiftly about Darcy. Darcy's time hiding out in the rougher part of London is fascinating and poignant. You'll fall in love with him all over again after reading this.
This is a rather dark story, but it's done so well that I couldn't put it down. The book is very well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
The story begins during Elizabeth's visit to Charlotte Collins at Hunsford Parsonage. As per usual, Elizabeth dislikes Darcy, and Darcy is reluctantly in love with her. Elizabeth and Charlotte witness some strange behavior from Anne Debourgh. Then two men show up at Rosings, saying that they're arresting Darcy for treason, throwing everyone into an uproar. Elizabeth happens to overhear the two men speaking of their real reason for coming to get Darcy, and that is to kill Darcy in exchange for a payment of money. Elizabeth is able to secretly warn Darcy, and help him go into hiding disguised as a common laborer. Elizabeth becomes Darcy's only link to the outside world, and she quickly learns how wrong she was about him and many other things.
The book is aptly named, as there are so many evil villains in this story, and some are real doozies. Fortunately, the romance is superb. We're given a swoon worthy Darcy, and a smart, courageous Elizabeth who thankfully changes her mind swiftly about Darcy. Darcy's time hiding out in the rougher part of London is fascinating and poignant. You'll fall in love with him all over again after reading this.
This is a rather dark story, but it's done so well that I couldn't put it down. The book is very well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
March 9, 2025
Excellent
4.5 stars.
This book was excellent. I have no idea how to review it without spoiling it completely. There was one loose end I wish had been tied up & I was shocked that Darcy & Lizzy didn't immediately search the library, but overall this was fantastic.
4.5 stars.
This book was excellent. I have no idea how to review it without spoiling it completely. There was one loose end I wish had been tied up & I was shocked that Darcy & Lizzy didn't immediately search the library, but overall this was fantastic.
March 3, 2025
Mystery and mayhem
This was an astonishingly good read. I enjoy a good mystery, but usually I either can tell who "dun it" or there are a lot of clues missing. This managed to be a slow burn and had twists to the end.
This was an astonishingly good read. I enjoy a good mystery, but usually I either can tell who "dun it" or there are a lot of clues missing. This managed to be a slow burn and had twists to the end.
February 22, 2025
Loved it
The storyline ended differently than I supposed at the beginning. I enjoyed the plot and the writing. I will have to look for more by this author.
The storyline ended differently than I supposed at the beginning. I enjoyed the plot and the writing. I will have to look for more by this author.
February 7, 2025
This story was so over the top crazy. My head is spinning! I still have so many questions and no answers. Definitely not for me.
Lots of mysteries to unravel, lots of violence and lots of blood. If that's your thing? Enjoy!
Lots of mysteries to unravel, lots of violence and lots of blood. If that's your thing? Enjoy!
March 17, 2025
RATING: 4.5
In her latest Austen inspired work, Emilia Stratford brings a very unique and entertaining twist on the classic that has equal parts mystery, romance and action for a story that kept me guessing right until the end!
Some Particular Evil opens with Darcy and Elizabeth navigating the initial bumps and emotional fallout of Darcy's disastrous proposal in Kent. However, our favorite pair has little time to navigate the awkwardness and pain of their clashing feelings, when two men come to Rosings demanding that Darcy turn himself over on the charge of treason. While Elizabeth does not hold Darcy in high regards, she cannot stand by to see him be the object of nefarious forces set on ending his life.
With little time and no information on whom they can trust, Elizabeth and Darcy set into action a series of events that force Darcy underground until they can determine just where the threat is coming from and how to overcome it.
The unique circumstances that Darcy is placed in was a wonderful way for Stratford to give us insight into how Darcy starts the path to a better understanding of himself and how Elizabeth inspires him to make changes amidst the ordeal he is facing. I really enjoyed getting an opportunity to see how having to hide amongst the working classes gives Darcy a whole new perspective on his life and on how there is so much more he could be doing for others.
I adored the way that Elizabeth and Darcy's romance develops in moments of true courage and pressure. Stratford also brings really fresh perspectives on Darcy's family and the dark secrets that have haunted him since he was child. I loved the way she layered intrigue to Austen's original story and utilized some of the secondary characters in ways that were totally unique.
In her latest Austen inspired work, Emilia Stratford brings a very unique and entertaining twist on the classic that has equal parts mystery, romance and action for a story that kept me guessing right until the end!
Some Particular Evil opens with Darcy and Elizabeth navigating the initial bumps and emotional fallout of Darcy's disastrous proposal in Kent. However, our favorite pair has little time to navigate the awkwardness and pain of their clashing feelings, when two men come to Rosings demanding that Darcy turn himself over on the charge of treason. While Elizabeth does not hold Darcy in high regards, she cannot stand by to see him be the object of nefarious forces set on ending his life.
With little time and no information on whom they can trust, Elizabeth and Darcy set into action a series of events that force Darcy underground until they can determine just where the threat is coming from and how to overcome it.
The unique circumstances that Darcy is placed in was a wonderful way for Stratford to give us insight into how Darcy starts the path to a better understanding of himself and how Elizabeth inspires him to make changes amidst the ordeal he is facing. I really enjoyed getting an opportunity to see how having to hide amongst the working classes gives Darcy a whole new perspective on his life and on how there is so much more he could be doing for others.
I adored the way that Elizabeth and Darcy's romance develops in moments of true courage and pressure. Stratford also brings really fresh perspectives on Darcy's family and the dark secrets that have haunted him since he was child. I loved the way she layered intrigue to Austen's original story and utilized some of the secondary characters in ways that were totally unique.
Read
September 5, 2025Well. That was interesting.
A higher body count and more… umm… knife-wielding lunacy than I was expecting.
😵💫😂
A higher body count and more… umm… knife-wielding lunacy than I was expecting.
😵💫😂
March 4, 2025
Awesome!
Plenty of twists and turns; a little bit of angst and a lot of fun. Worth reading if you enjoy mystery.
Plenty of twists and turns; a little bit of angst and a lot of fun. Worth reading if you enjoy mystery.
February 14, 2025
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. There is, I believe, in every disposition a tendency to some particular evil. This is a closed-door, second chance, enemies-to-lovers regency romance with a mysterious twist.
Fitzwilliam Darcy would have never imagined the depravity dwelling in the hearts of those he thought he knew best. On the run from hired killers, he is forced into hiding in the mean streets of London with the only person he can trust being Elizabeth Bennet. Left behind in Kent, Elizabeth Bennet is still reeling from Darcy’s presumptuous marriage proposal when she discovers the plot to kill him. Leaping to the gentleman’s aid, she helps him go into hiding and then sets about trying to learn what she can of the plot against him—all of which reveals, gradually, new insights into Darcy’s true character.
Falling into a clandestine correspondence, she and Darcy share pieces of their hearts and together discover family secrets that could shake the very foundations of Darcy’s being, and put Elizabeth in mortal danger. Afforded a second chance at the sweetness of love amid the foulness of evil, will their romance prevail? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. There is, I believe, in every disposition a tendency to some particular evil. This is a closed-door, second chance, enemies-to-lovers regency romance with a mysterious twist.
Fitzwilliam Darcy would have never imagined the depravity dwelling in the hearts of those he thought he knew best. On the run from hired killers, he is forced into hiding in the mean streets of London with the only person he can trust being Elizabeth Bennet. Left behind in Kent, Elizabeth Bennet is still reeling from Darcy’s presumptuous marriage proposal when she discovers the plot to kill him. Leaping to the gentleman’s aid, she helps him go into hiding and then sets about trying to learn what she can of the plot against him—all of which reveals, gradually, new insights into Darcy’s true character.
Falling into a clandestine correspondence, she and Darcy share pieces of their hearts and together discover family secrets that could shake the very foundations of Darcy’s being, and put Elizabeth in mortal danger. Afforded a second chance at the sweetness of love amid the foulness of evil, will their romance prevail? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
February 6, 2025
Three and a half stars rounded up to four. The writing is beautiful. It’s well edited and the storyline is unique and clever. My rating is due to there being more violence than romance in the story.
There is a prologue which concerns the mysterious disappearance of Lady Anne Darcy when Darcy is a young boy of 12. She disappears, ostensibly with a lover, leaving young Darcy and an infant Georgiana behind. Darcy is left with a deep distrust of almost everyone allowing only his father, sister and cousin to become close to him.
Our main story begins in Kent with Darcy attempting, ineptly, to court Elizabeth. When he makes his horrific proposal she declines with her usual vehemence. Elizabeth later enters into Rosings unobserved to practice the pianoforte. She first overhears the Colonel tell Darcy there are two men there to arrest him for treason. She follows them to overhear the charges against Darcy. She realizes that it’s impossible for Darcy to have done what he is accused of as it was during the time she was staying at Netherfield to care for Jane and was aware he didn’t leave the estate. As Darcy and the Colonel go to collect Darcy’s belongings she overhears a plot that the men have been hired to kill Darcy, not take him to prison.
Elizabeth alerts Darcy and helps him to flee and they maintain a secret correspondence while he is in hiding. That correspondence leads them each to a greater understanding of each other as well as teaching Darcy that “low born” does not equate to low behavior. Can Darcy and Elizabeth discover who wants Darcy dead and why? Is Elizabeth herself in danger while she stays in Kent? Who are their enemies and who can they trust? Is the plot against him somehow tied into Lady Anne’s disappearance? There’s a lot going on here.
As I noted above there is a lot of violence in this story. It’s not gratuitous and is mostly integral to the plot. It is a well written mystery with a twist but my rating has to do with my preference for more romance. There is a lot more romance in the last part of the book so don’t fear it’s totally missing. I just feel my observations are worth mentioning to the unwary reader.
There is a prologue which concerns the mysterious disappearance of Lady Anne Darcy when Darcy is a young boy of 12. She disappears, ostensibly with a lover, leaving young Darcy and an infant Georgiana behind. Darcy is left with a deep distrust of almost everyone allowing only his father, sister and cousin to become close to him.
Our main story begins in Kent with Darcy attempting, ineptly, to court Elizabeth. When he makes his horrific proposal she declines with her usual vehemence. Elizabeth later enters into Rosings unobserved to practice the pianoforte. She first overhears the Colonel tell Darcy there are two men there to arrest him for treason. She follows them to overhear the charges against Darcy. She realizes that it’s impossible for Darcy to have done what he is accused of as it was during the time she was staying at Netherfield to care for Jane and was aware he didn’t leave the estate. As Darcy and the Colonel go to collect Darcy’s belongings she overhears a plot that the men have been hired to kill Darcy, not take him to prison.
Elizabeth alerts Darcy and helps him to flee and they maintain a secret correspondence while he is in hiding. That correspondence leads them each to a greater understanding of each other as well as teaching Darcy that “low born” does not equate to low behavior. Can Darcy and Elizabeth discover who wants Darcy dead and why? Is Elizabeth herself in danger while she stays in Kent? Who are their enemies and who can they trust? Is the plot against him somehow tied into Lady Anne’s disappearance? There’s a lot going on here.
As I noted above there is a lot of violence in this story. It’s not gratuitous and is mostly integral to the plot. It is a well written mystery with a twist but my rating has to do with my preference for more romance. There is a lot more romance in the last part of the book so don’t fear it’s totally missing. I just feel my observations are worth mentioning to the unwary reader.
February 17, 2025
A Mystery To Solve
This a wonderful book that keeps you guessing until the end about who really wants to kill Darcy. One thing you are not left in doubt about is the love between ODC. It is delight to see them come to realize their love early on and then steadfastly work together to solve the problems that are presented.
I loved this book and can’t wait to read more by Emilia. This one will definitely be added to my favorites list for reading in the future.
This a wonderful book that keeps you guessing until the end about who really wants to kill Darcy. One thing you are not left in doubt about is the love between ODC. It is delight to see them come to realize their love early on and then steadfastly work together to solve the problems that are presented.
I loved this book and can’t wait to read more by Emilia. This one will definitely be added to my favorites list for reading in the future.
February 16, 2025
A real page-turner. This is really engaging -- Darcy encounters very different challenges, and is a fascinating character. Wickham is surprising. A great debut for Stratford.
February 9, 2025
Warning! DO NOT START WHEN TIRED!
This book refuses to let you sleep... or even put it down for long. It grabs you from the first page and refuses to let you go until it's done. So enthralling! Who is behind the 'hit' put out on Darcy? Whom can he trust? How can he stay safe in one of the most dangerous areas of London? And how will Elizabeth grow to love him while they are apart since she vehemently refused his proposal?
Wonderfully done!
This book refuses to let you sleep... or even put it down for long. It grabs you from the first page and refuses to let you go until it's done. So enthralling! Who is behind the 'hit' put out on Darcy? Whom can he trust? How can he stay safe in one of the most dangerous areas of London? And how will Elizabeth grow to love him while they are apart since she vehemently refused his proposal?
Wonderfully done!
February 10, 2025
Great mystery!
A pager turner, for sure! This story had me trying to guess who the culprit was and then too many questions would pop up. I totally enjoyed the story and the entertainment it provided me. I recommend this to all P&P enthusiasms out there.
A pager turner, for sure! This story had me trying to guess who the culprit was and then too many questions would pop up. I totally enjoyed the story and the entertainment it provided me. I recommend this to all P&P enthusiasms out there.
February 7, 2025
Extraordinary
I loved the mystery and romance mixed together. The author really kept me guessing. I also thought that the love story between Elizabeth and Darcy was well pacedvand and both had ample time to correct their pride and prejudice. This book took me by surprise by its unique twist on Pride and prejudice. I'd call it a clean romance. They are together after marriage, but I'd call it sweet and nothing explicit.
I loved the mystery and romance mixed together. The author really kept me guessing. I also thought that the love story between Elizabeth and Darcy was well pacedvand and both had ample time to correct their pride and prejudice. This book took me by surprise by its unique twist on Pride and prejudice. I'd call it a clean romance. They are together after marriage, but I'd call it sweet and nothing explicit.
February 10, 2025
A gruesome story. Psychosis, murder, betrayal and Bedlam.
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