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The Pleasure of Remembrance: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

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What if Mr. Darcy lost his memory before meeting Elizabeth?

While traveling to Ramsgate, Mr. Darcy's carriage is ambushed by highwaymen, leaving him with no memory of his past. He awakens in the care of the spirited Elizabeth Bennet, whose kindness and courage begin to mend his shattered world.

As their tender friendship blossoms into something more, their dreams for a shared future are threatened when Darcy's true identity is revealed, along with the shocking news of his betrothal to another.

Complicating matters further is a sinister plot that endangers both Darcy and his sister, forcing him to confront hidden enemies that will stop at nothing to secure their interests. Only by reclaiming his lost memories can he hope to navigate the treacherous path ahead and protect those he holds dear.

As secrets unfold and dangers arise, Darcy must prove himself worthy of the greatest pleasure he the love of Elizabeth Bennet.

This captivating variation on Pride and Prejudice will keep you on the edge of your seat, culminating in a heartwarming love story with a happily ever after for our dear couple.

In this story, you'll

💛 Slow burn

💛 Amnesia

💛 Earlier timeline

💛 No Meryton Assembly insult

💛 Wicked Lady Catherine

💛 Tricky Wickham

💛 Kissing-only romance

💛 A HEA for ODC

334 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 14, 2025

55 people are currently reading
17 people want to read

About the author

Amanda Kai

17 books75 followers
Amanda Kai’s background in the performing arts drives her creative spirit. Prior to becoming an author, Amanda enjoyed a successful career as a professional harpist, and danced ballet for twenty years. Her love of storytelling, nurtured by a fondness for period dramas and classic literature, led her to begin writing historical romances. She is the author of Marriage and Ministry and Elizabeth’s Secret Admirer, two stories based on Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. She also wrote a fictional short story about Marie Antoinette, titled Keys. When she’s not diving into the past through the realm of her imagination, Amanda lives out her own happily ever after in Leander, Texas, with her husband and three children.

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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Profile Image for Sheila Majczan.
2,697 reviews206 followers
February 26, 2025
As the title suggests and as the author's story description tells us, Darcy loses his memory. Set upon by robbers as they make a detour in traveling to London, two of Darcy's party are killed outright. Darcy is wounded as shots are fired at him and then as he falls and hits his head, he also loses his memory.

The Bennet sisters find him and he is taken to Longbourn where he spends some time recuperating. Yes, a description of the wounded man is sent to the London papers and we read of reasons why each of his family members does not read the article. So Darcy basically has no family and no money. In this story the Bennets provide him with the basic necessities.

Ironically, it is Collins who arrives for his visit with the Bennets who identifies Darcy and writes Lady C. about such. This sets up maneuvering by her as she uses his amnesia to persuade him of his "duties" to her and to Anne.

Wickham plays a part in this and I was able to guess at that from the beginning. BUT: not spoiling that. It is for others to figure out.

Elizabeth is set up for great disappointment as Darcy pays attention to "his duty". So there is some angst as to whether love or duty will win the day. Mr. Bennet is not a push over...even for his favorite daughter and makes some demands on Darcy.

I enjoyed this story as I have also enjoyed many others written by this author. I recommend it.
Profile Image for Gill M.
375 reviews27 followers
February 2, 2025
Review also posted on my blog

https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...

The aristocratic Fitzwilliam Darcy is rich, well connected and handsome.

On a journey to London, a washed out bridge means a diversion from the well known roads.
Proceeding slowly, down poorly maintained lanes leads Darcy and his staff into the clutches of highwaymen.

The ensuing violence robs two men of their lives. Darcy is wounded and loses his memory.

The Bennet sisters find him and he is nursed back to health in their home.

He is drawn to Elizabeth Bennet and she to him. However, Darcy does not know his own identity, so cannot move forward with any plans.

A visitor from Kent recognises him, so his identity is restored, but not his memories.
This moment of hope turns bittersweet, when he learns that he is betrothed to his cousin.

The villainous George Wickham seeks to take advantage of Darcy's vulnerability and some of Darcy's family are just as bad.

Is there any hope for Darcy and Elizabeth?
You won't want to stop reading until you know the answer!

A really enjoyable story and a clever way to strip Darcy of his pridefulness, revealing the lovely man he is.

I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
205 reviews8 followers
February 4, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book. The beginning is a bit intense with the attack on Darcy's carriage, but once Darcy is found, it was good to see what happened. I truly liked that Darcy could appreciate the Bennet family.
Profile Image for Adriana.
122 reviews3 followers
February 13, 2025
What should have been a peaceful journey for Mr. Darcy, ends up proving to be almost lethal.

With the loss of memory that follows, old enemies resurface and new dangers arise, but what remains is the bond he makes with the Bennets, especially with Elizabeth, which will be crucial to saving him in different ways.

One of those books that you don't want to stop reading.

I received a free copy from the author and I am voluntarily and very satisfied leaving my review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
2,556 reviews46 followers
February 4, 2025
The beginning of this story was kind of intense. I'm glad the whole thing was not so much. But the start has murders and attempted murder, one of which was Darcy. But that sets up the rest of the story. Darcy has amnesia so Elizabeth learns to know him under completely different circumstances with no haughtiness. It is easy for her to love him and he to love her.
But without conflict there would be no real story so they have to deal with Wickham's evil intentions and Anne and Lady C's conniving. It seemed like a really long time before Darcy's memory returned. I questioned Mr. Bennet's response to him toward the end. It seemed out of character.
Overall, I enjoyed the story.


Sex: no
Language: no
Violence: yes, murder, attempted murder, armed robbery
Profile Image for Melanie.
206 reviews16 followers
February 11, 2025
While traveling to Ramsgate to visit his sister Darcy falls victim to highwaymen. He is left gravely injured and with no memory. Fortunately he is found by Elizabeth Bennet and her family graciously takes him in until his relations are found. Soon tender feelings blossom between him and the bewitching lady. But then his identity is finally discovered … along with a supposed bride.
Darcy tries to come to terms with this new reality but fortunately he regains his memory just in time to prevent him from an unwanted marriage and his sister from a dire fate.
But will Darcy be able to claim the heart of the one woman he loves, now that he is free? Will Elizabeth be able to overcome the betrayal of his relatives? Or will others stand in their way to a happy future?

The book was very well written by the author Amanda Kai. I always enjoy her books very much, they are a must read for me and this book is no exception.

I love the tender relationship that grows between Darcy and Elizabeth. It feels so natural. Darcy shows no pride and no prejudice, he is just thankful to be alive and taken care of and enjoys the company of the enchanting Elizabeth. He is so relaxed and at ease despite his circumstances that he can allow his heart to be given away to the lady who had captured him so thoroughly.

Elizabeth is first equally at ease and can enjoy the blossoming of this new love. Later, when she discovers that Darcy seems to be promised to another, she is naturally heartbroken. I really like that she, with the help of others, tries everything in her power to change the situation in her favour. Don't get me wrong, she doesn't use arts and allurements but tries to give Darcy all the facts so that he can make an informed decision and is not deceived by others. Fortunately that allows Darcy to eventually let his heart make the decision.

There is also a bit of a drama at the end when Darcy, finally able to again remember nearly everything, needs to prevent a tragedy. But it was not too much and therefore perfect as a counterpart to the tender beginning. And thanks to this incident he finally recalls the missing parts of his memory.

The usual villains Lady Catherine and Wickham are a big part of the story. Fortunately, in the end, neither of their plans is successful.
Bingley and his party are no big part of the story because the story takes place before Bingley leases Netherfield. Therefore we need not bother too much with Caroline, something I very much enjoyed 😉

If you like to know how the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth could blossom when he can't recall who he is and how his relations take advantage of his memory loss you should definitely read this excellent book.

I highly recommend it.

I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Susan.
7,281 reviews70 followers
January 28, 2025
A Pride and Prejudice Variation. 4th June 1811. Travelling from Pemberley to town, Darcy and his staff are attacked by highwaymen. Darcy and his valet Perkins are left for dead. But the Bennet daughters discover Darcy and he is taken to Longbourn but among his wounds he suffers from amnesia. For all an enjoyable month passes then Collins arrived. Can there be a happy ending for any of the young ladies or will the plots succeed.
An entertaining and well-written story with its cast of mainly likeable characters, countered by the evil plotters.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2 reviews
February 6, 2025
I could not wait to read the newest book from Amanda Kai. So you can imagine my joy when I received an email from her with a free copy!
Amanda's books are perfect when you want a heartwarming read, woth a swoonworthy Mr. Darcy and a witty, beautiful, perfect for him Elizabeth. :) And this book made no exception.
Although the first meeting between our dear couple is not something all sweet, it is pretty unique, to me. It is one of the points in the book which made me read that specific part again and again until I memorised it.
The first impressions are not spoiled by social difference, arrogance, or bruised ego. Elizabeth is one of the saviours of a man in trouble, about whom she knows nothing.
Because Mr. Darcy lost his memories, he loses his social pride and superiority, and becomes just a man, in need of assistance. That is why the relationship between him and Elizabeth has such a good start. It is one of my favourite things about this book.
What really stuck to my memory is Mr. Darcy's opinion about Elizabeth's family. If in the original book, as well as in many variations, he looks down to them... Here he is a guest of Longbourn and is absolutely fascinated by the love that exists in the family. Although obviously not rich, the Bennets love each other and I think Mr. Darcy learned a very important lesson.
Especially when later in the book, it proves to be in such high contrast with his own family. Lady Catherine, Anne, the Fitzwilliams... All prove to be more than undesirable.
Of course Lady Catherine could not miss the chance to finally see her daughter married to her nephew!
And of course, evil Whickam could not pass the opportunity to revenge himself on Mr. Darcy and in the meantime, make some money from others' suffering.
But thank God, everything ended well and all the negative characters got what they deserved.
I loved the transitions between characters' plot. I loved the way the feelings were so well explained, it made the story smooth.
However, what I found a bit confusing was Whickam's nickname, Georgie. When I say 'Georgie', my mind instantly goes to Georgiana, Mr. Darcy's sister. I think that 'Georgie' is a name too beautiful to be attributed to such an undeserving person.
All that being said, I recommend this book for a beautiful read, with a cup of coffe or tea beside. :)

I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Allison Ripley-Duggan.
1,807 reviews14 followers
February 28, 2025
I loved it!

It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This story embodies a slow-burn, kiss-only romance, amnesia, an earlier timeline, no Merton Assembly insult, a wicked Lady Catherine, and a tricky Wickam. This captivating story will keep you on the edge of your seat, culminating in a heartwarming love story with a happily ever after for our dear couple.

What if Mr. Darcy lost his memory before meeting Elizabeth? While traveling to Ramsgate, Mr. Darcy's carriage is ambushed by highwaymen, leaving him with no memory of his past. He awakens in the care of the spirited Elizabeth Bennet, whose kindness and courage begin to mend his shattered world. As their tender friendship blossoms into something more, their dreams for a shared future are threatened when Darcy's true identity is revealed, along with the shocking news of his betrothal to another.

Complicating matters further is a sinister plot that endangers both Darcy and his sister, forcing him to confront hidden enemies that will stop at nothing to secure their interests. Only by reclaiming his lost memories can he hope to navigate the treacherous path ahead and protect those he holds dear. As secrets unfold and dangers arise, Darcy must prove himself worthy of the greatest pleasure he desires, the love of Elizabeth Bennet. 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.
58 reviews1 follower
February 1, 2025
I loved this story where E&D fall in love during Darcy's stay with the Bennets. When Elizabeth and her sisters find him, he has been attacked by highwayman and has lost his memory. With no memory of who he is and what has happened to him, he becomes close to Elizabeth and the Bennets. They are really sweet together. But trouble soon appears when Mr. Collins visit the family. Of course there are some who wants to take advantage of his memory loss, and everything seems quite dark for a time. There are several plots going on, but there is a very happy ending.
I will probably read this story over again!
33 reviews
February 5, 2025
What if Mr Darcy lost his pride along with his memory?
This P&P variation explores what could have happened if Darcy had lost his memory just before meeting Elizabeth Bennet. Darcy is a kinder version of himself without the pride. This variation has a slightly altered timeline, and the usual villains aim to take advantage of Darcy’s amnesia. I really enjoyed this entertaining and well-written story. Highly recommended.

I received an Advance Review Copy (ARC) of the ebook, and I’m leaving a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Jen B.
590 reviews7 followers
February 12, 2025
4.25*
I loved this Darcy and Elizabeth. This was a fun retelling (a little OTT and filled with convenient timing - but who cares). I must admit to being a little stressed part way through and had to remind myself that Amanda Kai will not let us down. She didn't. Most of the villains got their comeuppance (I am not sure whether I should be appalled or not at myself that two of their fates made me laugh - but there you have it).
I received an advance review copy for free from StoryOrigin, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
297 reviews1 follower
September 26, 2025
This is the first time I read a P&P with an amnesia trope and it was very entertaining. I was very curious as to what would happen next. Darcy is wonderful in this variation. He is not disapproving or arrogant, but kind and he and Elizabeth fall in love quite quickly. There is a lot of drama caused by a certain domineering and imposing aunt, but our dear couple gets their happy ending. I find this story in some scenes quite angsty and suspenseful and I was curious what would happen next. It is a very enjoyable read and I highly recommend it!
Profile Image for Teresita.
1,230 reviews12 followers
January 28, 2025
I loved the premise of Darcy falling in love with Elizabeth while suffering from amnesia. A great plot is masterfully written, keeping the reader glued to the book until it is finished. All the usual suspects make attempts to thwart our dear couple and get what's coming to them. A very worthwhile read! I got an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Evelyn Foreman.
724 reviews30 followers
February 14, 2025
If you love Jane Austen, you will absolutely devour this story! From tragedy, healing and hope arise, no matter the evil plans lying in wait to destroy a future bright with promise, a match made in heaven, truth prevails, lives are restored the wicked are brought to naught. Exceeded my expectations, the author’s best one yet!
Profile Image for JennXReviews (Jennice).
74 reviews9 followers
May 24, 2025
A sweet deviation from the original story with a few twists and turns. I enjoyed this take on Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship and interpretation of the family. It's everything I enjoy about Pride and Prejudice variations. We know that Darcy and Elizabeth will end up together, but it's the journey that makes the difference.
Profile Image for Teresa Williams.
556 reviews7 followers
February 3, 2025
This was a very good story, though several times I found myself skimming.
It was fun watching a relationship develop between Elizabeth and Darcy without any of his notions of duty and class to get in his way, until it it did.
791 reviews5 followers
February 18, 2025
The Pleasure of Remembrance is a slow love story, where Darcy is attached and has amnesia. Of course Elizabeth is his rescuer and angel. There is much evil afoot. This is a very entertaining and fulfilling Happily Ever After Story.
14 reviews
February 6, 2025
A very enjoyable read.
A number of unexpected twists in this book certainly kept me interested.
247 reviews1 follower
February 10, 2025
This was a delightful variation of the famous Pride and Prejudice. I liked how the characters meet in a different way and fall for each other naturally. Well thought out and executed.
Profile Image for Sam H..
1,228 reviews61 followers
February 14, 2025
What happens when the walls disappear, even if the memories disappear with them.

Following an attack on his carriage, Darcy is left for dead, and the Bennet daughters find him.

I really like the dynamics the author creates for the Bennet family and for the sisters. Each had their familiar characters, but everything was toned down and happier.

A Darcy with no memories is a soft, kind and easy to love Darcy. And he finds love right back!

But it can't be that easy for our dear couple. No, while all the falling in love is going on, the reader just knows something big is going to explode in their faces.

Thanks to Mr. Collins, that something is Lady Catherine and Darcy's engagement to Anne. With Darcy not remotely close to getting his memories back, his time for marrying for true love is running out.

Just to make sure the reader doesn't get bored, there is another nefarious plot afoot. We are given a clue nearly from the get-go, on who one of the baddies are.   
 
It's not that this is a high angst story, it's that you can hear the ominous music coming and you know the bad times are a comin'.

I really enjoyed the story. It was entertaining and the writing set a good pace.

The only thing that threw me is Georgiana staying on at Ramsgate House after everyone learns Darcy is deceased. It didn't seem feasible that her family would not have her come to them at once. Of course it was necessary to the story, but I couldn't shake the incongruousness of it.

I received a copy of this book for my honest opinion.
2,481 reviews18 followers
February 14, 2025
This was a wonderful variation. I really enjoyed seeing so many familiar characters wrapped up in a different sort of plot where Darcy loses his memory. A slightly different timeline with a few deliciously different details kept me feverishly reading on to see what would happen next. Loved it!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews

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