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Without Undue Pride
Becoming a wife has cost her everything. Are his unflinching promises enough to make her risk the dangers of love once more?
Elizabeth Fitzwilliam, née Bennet, doesn’t believe she will ever trust. Left destitute and pregnant after her colonel husband dies on the battlefield, the once-lively widow is horrified when her brother-in-law threatens to seize custody of her child. So though she doesn’t have faith he’ll keep his word, the heartsore mother throws herself on the mercy of the one man who offers to help… the sternly handsome Mr. Darcy.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is unrelenting in matters of honor. And although he’s too busy mourning his relative to fully appreciate his guest’s quick wit and bright eyes, he finds unforeseen comfort in their blossoming friendship. But as their attachment grows deeper, he’s perplexed by her broken-hearted confessions and staunch refusal to even consider another courtship.
Torn between her desires and her experience, Elizabeth’s careful plans shatter after a shocking betrayal. And while he yearns to take her hand in marriage, Darcy fears she may value her independence more than his proposal.
Will betrayal and broken hearts stop their romance from blooming?
This Pride and Prejudice variation contains open door content and mention of an OC's off page miscarriage.
Elizabeth Fitzwilliam, née Bennet, doesn’t believe she will ever trust. Left destitute and pregnant after her colonel husband dies on the battlefield, the once-lively widow is horrified when her brother-in-law threatens to seize custody of her child. So though she doesn’t have faith he’ll keep his word, the heartsore mother throws herself on the mercy of the one man who offers to help… the sternly handsome Mr. Darcy.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is unrelenting in matters of honor. And although he’s too busy mourning his relative to fully appreciate his guest’s quick wit and bright eyes, he finds unforeseen comfort in their blossoming friendship. But as their attachment grows deeper, he’s perplexed by her broken-hearted confessions and staunch refusal to even consider another courtship.
Torn between her desires and her experience, Elizabeth’s careful plans shatter after a shocking betrayal. And while he yearns to take her hand in marriage, Darcy fears she may value her independence more than his proposal.
Will betrayal and broken hearts stop their romance from blooming?
This Pride and Prejudice variation contains open door content and mention of an OC's off page miscarriage.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 4, 2025
104 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
March 4, 2025
Darcy shines in this one.
4.5 stars, rounded up.
In Without Undue Pride, Elizabeth Bennet’s brief but intense romance with Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam was unexpected. He chose love over duty, defying his aristocratic family to marry her before returning to Spain. But their happiness is painfully short-lived. Within weeks, Elizabeth is widowed, pregnant, and abandoned by the Fitzwilliam family.
Left with little support and even fewer options, Elizabeth is forced to rely on the one man who steps forward to help—Fitzwilliam Darcy. Their deepening friendship is beautifully written. I especially appreciated Darcy’s unwavering honour and patience, even when Elizabeth’s trauma made her push him away. Her fierce need for independence is completely understandable, though her overly repeated insistence that she could never marry again felt a little drawn out. This is why I deducted half a star.
Darcy’s role in this story is one of quiet strength. He stands by Elizabeth, offering her shelter at Pemberley and the respect she desperately needs. I really appreciated how their relationship developed—not through grand gestures, but through steady companionship and understanding.
Heather Moll’s writing is nicely measured. There’s a steady undercurrent of angst—never overdone, but always present. I didn’t find this to be a lighthearted romance filled with playful banter, but rather a slow, emotional journey of healing and trust. While the middle of the book dragged slightly for me because of the above-noted repetition, the HEA was worth it. I loved seeing Elizabeth find her way back to happiness and Darcy proving himself to be a steadfast, honourable man.
To sum it up, Without Undue Pride is a moving read, with the perfect touch of angst and romance, and Heather Moll continues to be a must-read author for me.
Mature content.
I received a ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Purchased for my Kindle library.
4.5 stars, rounded up.
In Without Undue Pride, Elizabeth Bennet’s brief but intense romance with Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam was unexpected. He chose love over duty, defying his aristocratic family to marry her before returning to Spain. But their happiness is painfully short-lived. Within weeks, Elizabeth is widowed, pregnant, and abandoned by the Fitzwilliam family.
Left with little support and even fewer options, Elizabeth is forced to rely on the one man who steps forward to help—Fitzwilliam Darcy. Their deepening friendship is beautifully written. I especially appreciated Darcy’s unwavering honour and patience, even when Elizabeth’s trauma made her push him away. Her fierce need for independence is completely understandable, though her overly repeated insistence that she could never marry again felt a little drawn out. This is why I deducted half a star.
Darcy’s role in this story is one of quiet strength. He stands by Elizabeth, offering her shelter at Pemberley and the respect she desperately needs. I really appreciated how their relationship developed—not through grand gestures, but through steady companionship and understanding.
Heather Moll’s writing is nicely measured. There’s a steady undercurrent of angst—never overdone, but always present. I didn’t find this to be a lighthearted romance filled with playful banter, but rather a slow, emotional journey of healing and trust. While the middle of the book dragged slightly for me because of the above-noted repetition, the HEA was worth it. I loved seeing Elizabeth find her way back to happiness and Darcy proving himself to be a steadfast, honourable man.
To sum it up, Without Undue Pride is a moving read, with the perfect touch of angst and romance, and Heather Moll continues to be a must-read author for me.
Mature content.
I received a ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Purchased for my Kindle library.
March 6, 2025
I did not enjoy this book.
My review is choppy because I’m really trying not to give spoilers.
I look forward to Heather Moll’s books, but this one left me wanting. So much was off, most glaringly the seeming lack of a close relationship with Jane. Charlotte’s tradwife obsession is far-fetched. The extremes she will go to and the things she will overlook (certain abuse) beggar belief.
Most problematic is Lizzy. I don’t doubt that she has PTSD after what happened to her, but her obsession with being independent is idiotic and impractical. The reader is beaten over the head with it with 35 mentions of “power” and how women have to put themselves under a man’s power by marrying. “Control” merits 28 mentions. It’s tedious.
Darcy isn’t the brightest, either. First, he led Lizzy straight to the lion’s den, and then was shocked! Shocked, I say, when said lion wanted to demolish her.
A mother would do anything for her child, yet Elizabeth would rather live in a damp hovel than face reality and choose the best available option to ensure the best for her child. She’s not proud; she’s nonsensical.
Darcy, for his part, could have sped things along nicely by overcoming her objections constructively. Let her help write the settlement papers. Let her sign the settlement papers. Show her the tangible voice she will have as his wife.
The plot was easy enough to follow and there might have been a mere typo or two. There’s just not enough logic in the plot to make me want to reread this.
My review is choppy because I’m really trying not to give spoilers.
I look forward to Heather Moll’s books, but this one left me wanting. So much was off, most glaringly the seeming lack of a close relationship with Jane. Charlotte’s tradwife obsession is far-fetched. The extremes she will go to and the things she will overlook (certain abuse) beggar belief.
Most problematic is Lizzy. I don’t doubt that she has PTSD after what happened to her, but her obsession with being independent is idiotic and impractical. The reader is beaten over the head with it with 35 mentions of “power” and how women have to put themselves under a man’s power by marrying. “Control” merits 28 mentions. It’s tedious.
Darcy isn’t the brightest, either. First, he led Lizzy straight to the lion’s den, and then was shocked! Shocked, I say, when said lion wanted to demolish her.
A mother would do anything for her child, yet Elizabeth would rather live in a damp hovel than face reality and choose the best available option to ensure the best for her child. She’s not proud; she’s nonsensical.
Darcy, for his part, could have sped things along nicely by overcoming her objections constructively. Let her help write the settlement papers. Let her sign the settlement papers. Show her the tangible voice she will have as his wife.
The plot was easy enough to follow and there might have been a mere typo or two. There’s just not enough logic in the plot to make me want to reread this.
March 5, 2025
A Miss for Ms. Moll (spoilers included)
I have liked this author historically but this book is not the romantic escapism I read the genre for. It’s principally a whinging moral on the poor treatment of women in the Regency period. It’s tediously lecturing with a premise that casts Elizabeth as the bitter, wronged widow who loved Colonel Fitzwilliam before Darcy. I gave this unpalatable scenario a chance but I could never bring myself to root for such an angry, impossibly foolish Elizabeth, who, for all her bluster of independence, had to be rescued by a man in the end anyway.
Also, I’m not opposed to an open door bedroom but the sex at the end here is not well-written; it comes off as almost perfunctory and tacked on to check a box. I never saw them actually fall in passionate love so the (pre-marital, with Elizabeth as the aggressor) consummation did nothing for me.
I have put this author on my automatic tbr list but that will change if she’s going to start cramming feminism and other modern themes down the reader’s throat while writing in-Period.
I have liked this author historically but this book is not the romantic escapism I read the genre for. It’s principally a whinging moral on the poor treatment of women in the Regency period. It’s tediously lecturing with a premise that casts Elizabeth as the bitter, wronged widow who loved Colonel Fitzwilliam before Darcy. I gave this unpalatable scenario a chance but I could never bring myself to root for such an angry, impossibly foolish Elizabeth, who, for all her bluster of independence, had to be rescued by a man in the end anyway.
Also, I’m not opposed to an open door bedroom but the sex at the end here is not well-written; it comes off as almost perfunctory and tacked on to check a box. I never saw them actually fall in passionate love so the (pre-marital, with Elizabeth as the aggressor) consummation did nothing for me.
I have put this author on my automatic tbr list but that will change if she’s going to start cramming feminism and other modern themes down the reader’s throat while writing in-Period.
March 17, 2025
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: Mature: Adult themes were discussed and described. There were also descriptions of war and the situations after a battle. Some of the descriptions were graphic and not for a sensitive reader.
>>Angst Level: Moderate to high
>>Source: I borrowed this from KU and volunteered to leave a review.
>>Trope: Stubborn, obstinate, headstrong Lizzy. This finally got on my last nerve. She was so determined in her opinion that she nearly lost everything.
Reading stories where Colonel Fitzwilliam dies is a tough day or night. I felt for the young widow, and it would be later in the story before we realized the extent of her suffering while in Spain. She wanted independence. In that era, it was nearly impossible without wealth and connections. She had neither. Elizabeth held to her convictions to the point that she nearly lost everything. Friendships fell to the wayside, and she was subjected to the most degrading offer a woman could receive. Only Fitzwilliam Darcy came to her rescue. I adored him. She began to get on my nerves.
>>Rating: Mature: Adult themes were discussed and described. There were also descriptions of war and the situations after a battle. Some of the descriptions were graphic and not for a sensitive reader.
>>Angst Level: Moderate to high
>>Source: I borrowed this from KU and volunteered to leave a review.
>>Trope: Stubborn, obstinate, headstrong Lizzy. This finally got on my last nerve. She was so determined in her opinion that she nearly lost everything.
Reading stories where Colonel Fitzwilliam dies is a tough day or night. I felt for the young widow, and it would be later in the story before we realized the extent of her suffering while in Spain. She wanted independence. In that era, it was nearly impossible without wealth and connections. She had neither. Elizabeth held to her convictions to the point that she nearly lost everything. Friendships fell to the wayside, and she was subjected to the most degrading offer a woman could receive. Only Fitzwilliam Darcy came to her rescue. I adored him. She began to get on my nerves.
March 25, 2025
2.5 rounded up to 3 stars
I found this to be a frustrating read. Despite an excellent premise, fine writing, obvious research, and a well-developed friends-to-lovers storyline, it fell flat for me.
Elizabeth Bennet marries Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam after a whirlwind romance. Two months later, he dies on a battlefield in Spain, leaving her a penniless, pregnant widow. Upon his death, the military stops her food rations and offers no aid to get her or her husband's body back to England No Will can be found, and Richard had invested his money unwisely. Her parents-in-law, the Earl and Countess of Matlock, despise her and refuse to even see her. Their eldest son, whose wife has birthed only one living daughter and suffered multiple miscarriages, threatens to file for guardianship of her child if it's a male. Elizabeth's father is too indolent to exert himself on her behalf. Much as she loved Richard, she is angry that he left her in this position.
Elizabeth's conclusion? All the men in her life have failed her; therefore, all men cannot be trusted. As a widow, she may be poor, but at least she can make her own choices. She will never remarry and give another man such power over her again. Elizabeth thinks this and says this over and over and over ad nauseum even with Mr. Darcy proving over and over again that he's one man she CAN trust.
The absolute power of Regency men over the women in their lives is a repetitive theme that's positively beaten to death. (See my highlights for over 50 instances.) The plot itself would make the same point perfectly well without all the unnecessary emphasis.
Elizabeth has an odd relationship with Charlotte Lucas. With all the time they spend together, she doesn't confide significant details to Charlotte when they argue over her decisions. Then she feels betrayed when her friend, believing she's acting for Elizabeth's benefit, makes a critical error. Much as I was appalled with the result of Charlotte's action, her reasoning was sound based on what she knew. Elizabeth doesn't just mistrust men; she distrusts everyone but herself.
The Gardiners are curiously MIA. It's explained, but the explanation is weak. Why mention them at all when, aside from inspiring the baby's name, they play no role in the plot?
Mr. Darcy is wonderful, with every sterling quality imaginable: generous, compassionate, patient, unselfish, insightful, heroic, etc, etc. A bit too perfect to be believable.
Elizabeth is the character with obvious flaws. I can't say I disliked her, but considering how intelligent she's supposed to be, her lack of logic becomes nonsensical - especially with how often it's repeated.
After all obstacles have resolved, the HEA goes on for too long. It includes two thoroughly described and thoroughly irrelevant sex scenes.
This had the potential to be a much better (and much shorter) book than it is.
I found this to be a frustrating read. Despite an excellent premise, fine writing, obvious research, and a well-developed friends-to-lovers storyline, it fell flat for me.
Elizabeth Bennet marries Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam after a whirlwind romance. Two months later, he dies on a battlefield in Spain, leaving her a penniless, pregnant widow. Upon his death, the military stops her food rations and offers no aid to get her or her husband's body back to England No Will can be found, and Richard had invested his money unwisely. Her parents-in-law, the Earl and Countess of Matlock, despise her and refuse to even see her. Their eldest son, whose wife has birthed only one living daughter and suffered multiple miscarriages, threatens to file for guardianship of her child if it's a male. Elizabeth's father is too indolent to exert himself on her behalf. Much as she loved Richard, she is angry that he left her in this position.
Elizabeth's conclusion? All the men in her life have failed her; therefore, all men cannot be trusted. As a widow, she may be poor, but at least she can make her own choices. She will never remarry and give another man such power over her again. Elizabeth thinks this and says this over and over and over ad nauseum even with Mr. Darcy proving over and over again that he's one man she CAN trust.
The absolute power of Regency men over the women in their lives is a repetitive theme that's positively beaten to death. (See my highlights for over 50 instances.) The plot itself would make the same point perfectly well without all the unnecessary emphasis.
Elizabeth has an odd relationship with Charlotte Lucas. With all the time they spend together, she doesn't confide significant details to Charlotte when they argue over her decisions. Then she feels betrayed when her friend, believing she's acting for Elizabeth's benefit, makes a critical error. Much as I was appalled with the result of Charlotte's action, her reasoning was sound based on what she knew. Elizabeth doesn't just mistrust men; she distrusts everyone but herself.
The Gardiners are curiously MIA. It's explained, but the explanation is weak. Why mention them at all when, aside from inspiring the baby's name, they play no role in the plot?
Mr. Darcy is wonderful, with every sterling quality imaginable: generous, compassionate, patient, unselfish, insightful, heroic, etc, etc. A bit too perfect to be believable.
Elizabeth is the character with obvious flaws. I can't say I disliked her, but considering how intelligent she's supposed to be, her lack of logic becomes nonsensical - especially with how often it's repeated.
After all obstacles have resolved, the HEA goes on for too long. It includes two thoroughly described and thoroughly irrelevant sex scenes.
This had the potential to be a much better (and much shorter) book than it is.
February 1, 2025
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, the second son of Earl Fitzwilliam, knows that he should marry a woman of the Ton. His family expect breeding and connections. He needs wealth, as he will inherit nothing.
As Richard is about to return to fight in Spain, he chooses love and a woman to comfort and care for him.
He meets Elizabeth Bennet at a dance. She is beautiful, intelligent and lively. A whirlwind courtship occurs. Elizabeth is from minor gentry, with no dowry so the Fitzwilliam's are appalled.
Only his cousin, Fitzwilliam Darcy stands by him.
After only a week of marriage they set off for Spain. The adjustment from newly wed to army wife is hard, but Elizabeth hopes to settle in to it, especially as she is already with child.
Then it is over. After only six weeks of marriage, she is a destitute widow.
She eventually manages to get home, but the trauma and privations that she faced have changed her forever heart, mind and soul.
She has a profound distrust of men having power over her. She was rejected by her in-laws, ignored by her father and even her beloved husband neglected to provide for her.
Darcy sees it as a duty and honour to care for his cousins widow, particularly when Richard's brother threatens to take the child.
Pemberley provides sanctuary whilst in mourning and awaiting the birth.
While Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam become close friends, she is desperate for independence. Even when she realises that she loves him, her fear of trusting men makes her push him away.
This Darcy is kind, honourable and loving.
Elizabeth is very obviously traumatised by her experiences. When reading the book, I found her many repeated avowals, that she cannot marry again to get a little irritating.
However, as the story progresses, you can see that she was not entirely rational during her pregnancy and was almost phobic about trusting anyone.
As she discovers, betrayal can come from the most unexpected people.
Watching Elizabeth Fitzwilliam putting her life back together is heartbreaking, compelling and oh so gratifying!
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, the second son of Earl Fitzwilliam, knows that he should marry a woman of the Ton. His family expect breeding and connections. He needs wealth, as he will inherit nothing.
As Richard is about to return to fight in Spain, he chooses love and a woman to comfort and care for him.
He meets Elizabeth Bennet at a dance. She is beautiful, intelligent and lively. A whirlwind courtship occurs. Elizabeth is from minor gentry, with no dowry so the Fitzwilliam's are appalled.
Only his cousin, Fitzwilliam Darcy stands by him.
After only a week of marriage they set off for Spain. The adjustment from newly wed to army wife is hard, but Elizabeth hopes to settle in to it, especially as she is already with child.
Then it is over. After only six weeks of marriage, she is a destitute widow.
She eventually manages to get home, but the trauma and privations that she faced have changed her forever heart, mind and soul.
She has a profound distrust of men having power over her. She was rejected by her in-laws, ignored by her father and even her beloved husband neglected to provide for her.
Darcy sees it as a duty and honour to care for his cousins widow, particularly when Richard's brother threatens to take the child.
Pemberley provides sanctuary whilst in mourning and awaiting the birth.
While Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam become close friends, she is desperate for independence. Even when she realises that she loves him, her fear of trusting men makes her push him away.
This Darcy is kind, honourable and loving.
Elizabeth is very obviously traumatised by her experiences. When reading the book, I found her many repeated avowals, that she cannot marry again to get a little irritating.
However, as the story progresses, you can see that she was not entirely rational during her pregnancy and was almost phobic about trusting anyone.
As she discovers, betrayal can come from the most unexpected people.
Watching Elizabeth Fitzwilliam putting her life back together is heartbreaking, compelling and oh so gratifying!
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
March 6, 2025
Delightful read
Mind a few spoilers
As usual, Ms Moll brings us another delightful book. Yes, there is angst as there is with most her books. In this case, as with others, it is well placed.
As the title refers to pride, like the inspiration, we know that our heroine struggles with it throughout the book.
She is proud of course and has her reasons at first that make complete sense.
We would see her behavior as someone struggling with PTSD. It's too bad those things were not recognized and attended to like they are today. Then again she shouldn't have been so alienated as a widow. It's incredibly heartbreaking what happened to her after she discovered her husbands body. That would cause any strong person to break. And she was so young and newly married and had no one to rely on or assist her.
That is until Darcy comes in and fulfills his duty to his cousin. Darcy is a true white knight and is so good at heart even though it took Lizzy awhile to see his true intentions.
We have to remember her PTSD made her unable to trust or even see reason in her choices. It was a beautiful thing when Darcy gave her the money she needed to have her vision of independence. He sacrificed his happiness for hers. Even though she was never gonna be truly happy in the way she planned.
Oh and can we all agree Charlotte was a traitor in the first degree. Her obsession with the place of women goes right along with the original story of Mr Collins. Ooh she was so misguided. She actually thought a rich man that wanted to take away a child, whose brother was adamantly against him and whose friend was incredibly leery of him, that he would be decent? She clearly has zero clue of the capabilities of evil men. Yes, she meant good, but she stepped wrong and hurt her friend severely. I would've suggested to her to go fulfill Miltons plan herself. Charlotte could give him and heir and be settled. It would be fitting for her.
Ok. I love the love scenes in this as well. Ms Moll does a beautiful style of showing us a little open door scenes without being tasteless and graphic. It's fitting and a sweet little insight of the intimacy between our couple.
Ok. I love this book. Great read. Going to add this to my favorites.
Mind a few spoilers
As usual, Ms Moll brings us another delightful book. Yes, there is angst as there is with most her books. In this case, as with others, it is well placed.
As the title refers to pride, like the inspiration, we know that our heroine struggles with it throughout the book.
She is proud of course and has her reasons at first that make complete sense.
We would see her behavior as someone struggling with PTSD. It's too bad those things were not recognized and attended to like they are today. Then again she shouldn't have been so alienated as a widow. It's incredibly heartbreaking what happened to her after she discovered her husbands body. That would cause any strong person to break. And she was so young and newly married and had no one to rely on or assist her.
That is until Darcy comes in and fulfills his duty to his cousin. Darcy is a true white knight and is so good at heart even though it took Lizzy awhile to see his true intentions.
We have to remember her PTSD made her unable to trust or even see reason in her choices. It was a beautiful thing when Darcy gave her the money she needed to have her vision of independence. He sacrificed his happiness for hers. Even though she was never gonna be truly happy in the way she planned.
Oh and can we all agree Charlotte was a traitor in the first degree. Her obsession with the place of women goes right along with the original story of Mr Collins. Ooh she was so misguided. She actually thought a rich man that wanted to take away a child, whose brother was adamantly against him and whose friend was incredibly leery of him, that he would be decent? She clearly has zero clue of the capabilities of evil men. Yes, she meant good, but she stepped wrong and hurt her friend severely. I would've suggested to her to go fulfill Miltons plan herself. Charlotte could give him and heir and be settled. It would be fitting for her.
Ok. I love the love scenes in this as well. Ms Moll does a beautiful style of showing us a little open door scenes without being tasteless and graphic. It's fitting and a sweet little insight of the intimacy between our couple.
Ok. I love this book. Great read. Going to add this to my favorites.
March 6, 2025
Deeply Moving
If anyone can read this book and not be deeply moved by it, I will be worried about their emotional health. I love the way that Elizabeth has been through so much and is naturally conflicted, angry, and in desperate need of personal control as she heals. I love how Darcy does his best to understand and respect her needs. Charlotte's betrayal is unforgivable, I wish someone would have told her exactly what she had sold her friend into. Her smugness would have been ended then.
If anyone can read this book and not be deeply moved by it, I will be worried about their emotional health. I love the way that Elizabeth has been through so much and is naturally conflicted, angry, and in desperate need of personal control as she heals. I love how Darcy does his best to understand and respect her needs. Charlotte's betrayal is unforgivable, I wish someone would have told her exactly what she had sold her friend into. Her smugness would have been ended then.
January 30, 2025
Do not pass this by just because Elizabeth has been married before. Without Undue Pride by Heather Moll is another wonderful variation by an author that is a “must read” for me. At the beginning of this story, Elizabeth marries Colonel Fitzwilliam against the strident wishes of his family, and ends up a pregnant widow very soon after. Darcy is one of the very few people in England willing to help her and still respect her. The Fitzwilliam family will not help at all, even though she is carrying Fitzwilliam’s baby, and possibly the heir to the earldom.
I love this story, particularly the romance between Darcy and Elizabeth. As you would expect, nothing is simple for these two. There is some steam towards the end of the story, which is a big plus for me. This author is very good at developing unique storylines that do not merely echo the original book. Pride and respect are important themes throughout this book, and I appreciated the research done by the author into several items incorporated into the story.
I know some readers do not like it when either Darcy or Elizabeth are married to other people and have children. I think that when a really great writer tackles a premise that may not normally be “your cup of tea”, you should give it a try. The writer may change your mind, or at least help you see that it can work in the right hands. For example, I was not a fan of time travel novels. However, this author’s Nine Ladies is excellent regardless of my initial reluctance.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
I love this story, particularly the romance between Darcy and Elizabeth. As you would expect, nothing is simple for these two. There is some steam towards the end of the story, which is a big plus for me. This author is very good at developing unique storylines that do not merely echo the original book. Pride and respect are important themes throughout this book, and I appreciated the research done by the author into several items incorporated into the story.
I know some readers do not like it when either Darcy or Elizabeth are married to other people and have children. I think that when a really great writer tackles a premise that may not normally be “your cup of tea”, you should give it a try. The writer may change your mind, or at least help you see that it can work in the right hands. For example, I was not a fan of time travel novels. However, this author’s Nine Ladies is excellent regardless of my initial reluctance.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
March 6, 2025
After a whirlwind romance Elizabeth marries the dashing Colonel Fitzwilliam and follows him to war in Spain only to return some month later as a pregnant widow. She has no money, her mother wants her to marry the next best gentleman she meets and her brother-in-law threatens to seize custody for her unborn child. There is only one person willing to help her, the handsome cousin of her late husband, Fitzwilliam Darcy.
While they come to know each other better and a friendship is formed, Darcy is more and more drawn to the clever widow with her enchanting eyes. Their mutual feelings deepen but Elizabeth is determined never to marry again and stay independent, despite all costs.
After a betrayal of the worst sort Elizabeth's carefully laid plans shatter and she needs to consider what to do next. Will Darcy be still willing to help despite her rejection of his hand? Will Elizabeth overcome her fears and trust again or is her independence more important to her? And what about the custody of her child?
The book was very well written by the author Heather Moll. Books from her never disappoint and this book is no exception.
Because of the Colonel's death and Elizabeth being a widow I had feared that this book may sometimes be rather sad. I'm glad that this is not the case. There are some sad moments in it but fortunately Elizabeth and Darcy mostly remember the happy moments with the Colonel and when there are sad moments they face them together as friends. This was very well done by the author and I am glad for it. It is rather a tale of a love story between friends than grieving for a shared loved person.
Darcy was swoon worthy in this book. Because of his promises to the Colonel to be more patient with the people around him and to be less arrogant he is already a better version of himself. In my opinion there is not much left he needs to change to be worthy of Elizabeth. And he is soooo sweet with Elizabeth's baby (and even before the baby is born ❤ ️), he is definitely a good father. And I like his witty remarks. He is at ease with Elizabeth and more approachable in company and therefore she sees this humorous side of him. There are some really witty exchanges between the two. I can't understand why Elizabeth did not catch him at the first opportunity 😉
Sometimes I wanted to shake Elizabeth. She is so stubborn and decided against a second marriage. On the one hand I can understand her fears. As a daughter or a wife she is dependent on her male relations/her husband, but as a widow she can be independent and therefore need not fear to be left alone and in an vulnerable state again by these relations. But on the other hand she clings to her fears even when others have already proven that this may not be the best decision for her because she forgets that being independent at all costs often comes with being alone, lonely and desperate. Elizabeth is even willing to deny her love for Darcy for the sake of being independent. I was so glad when she finally sees that this is not the way to happiness and makes amends with Darcy.
With Elizabeth as a widow Darcy and Elizabeth have more freedom to get to know each other uninterrupted because they do not need a chaperone. I like that very much because they are fast able to form a reliable friendship and value the qualities of the other. And they are additionally able to easily confess their feelings for one another and act on them 😉.
There are some real villains in the story. Some like Elizabeth's brother-in-law you may guess from the blurb but there are also others you are not able to recognize at first. And there are also others who seem to be villains and later we discover that they are properly not. That makes this variation engaging. You do not know exactly what to think of everyone.
If you like to know how Elizabeth, with Darcy's help, is able to overcome the trials she faces after her husband's death, you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
The book is for a mature audience.
I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
While they come to know each other better and a friendship is formed, Darcy is more and more drawn to the clever widow with her enchanting eyes. Their mutual feelings deepen but Elizabeth is determined never to marry again and stay independent, despite all costs.
After a betrayal of the worst sort Elizabeth's carefully laid plans shatter and she needs to consider what to do next. Will Darcy be still willing to help despite her rejection of his hand? Will Elizabeth overcome her fears and trust again or is her independence more important to her? And what about the custody of her child?
The book was very well written by the author Heather Moll. Books from her never disappoint and this book is no exception.
Because of the Colonel's death and Elizabeth being a widow I had feared that this book may sometimes be rather sad. I'm glad that this is not the case. There are some sad moments in it but fortunately Elizabeth and Darcy mostly remember the happy moments with the Colonel and when there are sad moments they face them together as friends. This was very well done by the author and I am glad for it. It is rather a tale of a love story between friends than grieving for a shared loved person.
Darcy was swoon worthy in this book. Because of his promises to the Colonel to be more patient with the people around him and to be less arrogant he is already a better version of himself. In my opinion there is not much left he needs to change to be worthy of Elizabeth. And he is soooo sweet with Elizabeth's baby (and even before the baby is born ❤ ️), he is definitely a good father. And I like his witty remarks. He is at ease with Elizabeth and more approachable in company and therefore she sees this humorous side of him. There are some really witty exchanges between the two. I can't understand why Elizabeth did not catch him at the first opportunity 😉
Sometimes I wanted to shake Elizabeth. She is so stubborn and decided against a second marriage. On the one hand I can understand her fears. As a daughter or a wife she is dependent on her male relations/her husband, but as a widow she can be independent and therefore need not fear to be left alone and in an vulnerable state again by these relations. But on the other hand she clings to her fears even when others have already proven that this may not be the best decision for her because she forgets that being independent at all costs often comes with being alone, lonely and desperate. Elizabeth is even willing to deny her love for Darcy for the sake of being independent. I was so glad when she finally sees that this is not the way to happiness and makes amends with Darcy.
With Elizabeth as a widow Darcy and Elizabeth have more freedom to get to know each other uninterrupted because they do not need a chaperone. I like that very much because they are fast able to form a reliable friendship and value the qualities of the other. And they are additionally able to easily confess their feelings for one another and act on them 😉.
There are some real villains in the story. Some like Elizabeth's brother-in-law you may guess from the blurb but there are also others you are not able to recognize at first. And there are also others who seem to be villains and later we discover that they are properly not. That makes this variation engaging. You do not know exactly what to think of everyone.
If you like to know how Elizabeth, with Darcy's help, is able to overcome the trials she faces after her husband's death, you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
The book is for a mature audience.
I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2025
Bleak!
A complete re-imagining of P&P. Elizabeth meets Colonel Fitzwilliam at a ball in London. He's about to leave to fight in the war in Spain, they have a whirlwind courtship, and marry. She accompanies him to Spain where he's killed in battle, and she's left penniless and unprotected. Since the Fitzwilliam family disapproved of the marriage, they do nothing to help Elizabeth. She's forced to sell everything in order to return her husband's body to England, and to get herself back home. Pregnant and alone, she returns to Hertfordshire where she finds Darcy visiting Bingley. Darcy is the only one of Fitzwilliam's family members who will tolerate her, and that only because the colonel made him promise, before he left for Spain, that he would look after Elizabeth if anything happened to him.
I like this author, but I never want to read this book again. The story is about PTSD, and about the horrible lack of any women's rights in Recency era England. Both are serious and important issues, and we know very well by the end of chapter three that Elizabeth is a victim of both, and it's a sad and poignant situation. However, Elizabeth's manic and obsessive hatred of men, and her almost hysterical need to assert her independence from them, is drilled home to the reader on almost every page of the book. The repetition, over and over, then over again, of this fact became annoying and tedious. I just could not fathom how Darcy could fall in love with such an emotional wreck as she was. I wanted to be sympathetic, but was instead getting annoyed. This sad and depressing state endures until pretty late in the tale. Even when ODC start to work out their problems, it just didn't feel right, and lacked any spark of romance.
The book is well written and well edited. I can't recommend it unless you don't mind a depressing tale with a mentally damaged Elizabeth.
A complete re-imagining of P&P. Elizabeth meets Colonel Fitzwilliam at a ball in London. He's about to leave to fight in the war in Spain, they have a whirlwind courtship, and marry. She accompanies him to Spain where he's killed in battle, and she's left penniless and unprotected. Since the Fitzwilliam family disapproved of the marriage, they do nothing to help Elizabeth. She's forced to sell everything in order to return her husband's body to England, and to get herself back home. Pregnant and alone, she returns to Hertfordshire where she finds Darcy visiting Bingley. Darcy is the only one of Fitzwilliam's family members who will tolerate her, and that only because the colonel made him promise, before he left for Spain, that he would look after Elizabeth if anything happened to him.
I like this author, but I never want to read this book again. The story is about PTSD, and about the horrible lack of any women's rights in Recency era England. Both are serious and important issues, and we know very well by the end of chapter three that Elizabeth is a victim of both, and it's a sad and poignant situation. However, Elizabeth's manic and obsessive hatred of men, and her almost hysterical need to assert her independence from them, is drilled home to the reader on almost every page of the book. The repetition, over and over, then over again, of this fact became annoying and tedious. I just could not fathom how Darcy could fall in love with such an emotional wreck as she was. I wanted to be sympathetic, but was instead getting annoyed. This sad and depressing state endures until pretty late in the tale. Even when ODC start to work out their problems, it just didn't feel right, and lacked any spark of romance.
The book is well written and well edited. I can't recommend it unless you don't mind a depressing tale with a mentally damaged Elizabeth.
March 9, 2025
I have so many words about how BAD this story is, that I must breathe in and calm my ire before commiting them to a review.
My advice >>> don’t trust the 5-star reviews from “free copy” readers around here! Those arcs come at a price, I have learnt
My advice >>> don’t trust the 5-star reviews from “free copy” readers around here! Those arcs come at a price, I have learnt
March 2, 2025
ARC REVIEW- WITHOUT UNDUE PRIDE
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️.25
Tropes:
💚Widowed (and expecting!) Elizabeth
💚Second Chance at Love
💚RIP Col. Fitz
💚Forced Proximity
💚Sloooooow Burn
__________________
Thanks to Heather Moll for the ARC! I received an advance copy of the book and am leaving an honest review. All opinions are my own.
__________________
I am always down for some JAFF and P&P variations. Heather Moll is my go-to girl for this, she always knocks it out of the park for me. I was a bit hesitant to start this one, as it features a widowed and pregnant Elizabeth. She married Colonel Fitzwilliam right before he is sent to Spain for war. He ends up RIP and Elizabeth is widowed after only 6 weeks of marriage. I have always been of the mind that I think Lizzy and Col Fitz would be an adorable couple, if only Darcy didn't exist. This kind of shows me a bit of what that would look like.
I really enjoyed this one. A kinder, more patient and steadfast Darcy from the beginning. His unwavering support of Elizabeth, because Col Fitz loved her, was lovely to read. She has been left essentially destitute by the Fitzwilliam family, as they did not approve of the marriage and they felt she stole their son away from them. Darcy is the only one she can turn to, as she has become a burden to her family and her in laws won't have her. She has also found out, just before Col Fitz passes, that she is with child. So there is a whole other aspect to this story that was new for me. But it was refreshing and I honestly enjoyed it.
My only slight complaint is I felt that Elizabeth was WAY TOO independent. I understood, after all that she had been through immediately following the death of Col Fitz and making her way back home, that she never wants to put herself at the mercy of another man. I understood it to a certain extent. But after all the care, attention and support that Darcy provides her, she still wants nothing to do with relying on anyone except herself. I felt like she made some incredibly poor choices and was way too headstrong and independent, in a way that was seriously not smart.
Darcy was an absolute gem in this one, green flag boyfriend all the way. You can see just how much he took to heart the advice that Col Fitzwilliam gave him before he left for Spain and before his death and allowed people in and to see his true nature. He slowly develops feelings for Elizabeth but does not overwhelm her or even ask anything of her. He is satisfied in being her friend and only her friend until he starts to feel that she returns at least some of his feelings.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. I still prefer storylines where neither one of them have been married before. But this was stepping outside my comfort zone with an author that I trust implicitly. I always know what I will be getting with a Heather Moll book: an incredibly well written, well thought out book full of my favourite characters. I can't wait for her next book.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️.25
Tropes:
💚Widowed (and expecting!) Elizabeth
💚Second Chance at Love
💚RIP Col. Fitz
💚Forced Proximity
💚Sloooooow Burn
__________________
Thanks to Heather Moll for the ARC! I received an advance copy of the book and am leaving an honest review. All opinions are my own.
__________________
I am always down for some JAFF and P&P variations. Heather Moll is my go-to girl for this, she always knocks it out of the park for me. I was a bit hesitant to start this one, as it features a widowed and pregnant Elizabeth. She married Colonel Fitzwilliam right before he is sent to Spain for war. He ends up RIP and Elizabeth is widowed after only 6 weeks of marriage. I have always been of the mind that I think Lizzy and Col Fitz would be an adorable couple, if only Darcy didn't exist. This kind of shows me a bit of what that would look like.
I really enjoyed this one. A kinder, more patient and steadfast Darcy from the beginning. His unwavering support of Elizabeth, because Col Fitz loved her, was lovely to read. She has been left essentially destitute by the Fitzwilliam family, as they did not approve of the marriage and they felt she stole their son away from them. Darcy is the only one she can turn to, as she has become a burden to her family and her in laws won't have her. She has also found out, just before Col Fitz passes, that she is with child. So there is a whole other aspect to this story that was new for me. But it was refreshing and I honestly enjoyed it.
My only slight complaint is I felt that Elizabeth was WAY TOO independent. I understood, after all that she had been through immediately following the death of Col Fitz and making her way back home, that she never wants to put herself at the mercy of another man. I understood it to a certain extent. But after all the care, attention and support that Darcy provides her, she still wants nothing to do with relying on anyone except herself. I felt like she made some incredibly poor choices and was way too headstrong and independent, in a way that was seriously not smart.
Darcy was an absolute gem in this one, green flag boyfriend all the way. You can see just how much he took to heart the advice that Col Fitzwilliam gave him before he left for Spain and before his death and allowed people in and to see his true nature. He slowly develops feelings for Elizabeth but does not overwhelm her or even ask anything of her. He is satisfied in being her friend and only her friend until he starts to feel that she returns at least some of his feelings.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. I still prefer storylines where neither one of them have been married before. But this was stepping outside my comfort zone with an author that I trust implicitly. I always know what I will be getting with a Heather Moll book: an incredibly well written, well thought out book full of my favourite characters. I can't wait for her next book.
March 16, 2025
Heather Moll is one of my favorite JAFF authors. The book was written well but for me, it was really repetitive. The author chose one focus so there wasn’t anything to distract from it. I could understand E’s feelings yet naive and immature to the point of stupidity. X was hard-core and offensive as planned and we don’t often get to see X in that way so that was nice though expected.
March 10, 2025
When I first heard of the plot for “Without Undue Pride,” I was very excited about it. So here is my honest review on what I liked and disliked…
Likes:
- the narrative related to Elizabeth & the colonel’s “love story”, if you’re worried about this sort of trope , the author does an excellent job of explaining the contrast between the love she has for each man
- Darcy changes in honor of his cousin Fitzwilliam
- the natural friendship that builds between Darcy and Elizabeth while at Pemberley
- Darcy is a MOST patient suitor
- I do appreciate some of the history on women’s rights during this time (specifically, related to child custody)
Dislikes:
- Elizabeth! Wow, we have here one of the most stubborn, hard-headed, and VERY FAR from reasonable Elizabeth’s ever. She makes some extremely poor and SELFISH choices around the half-way mark and onward. The E in this story is BIG on independence (think feminism), but it was hard to put up with her obstinacy since she is both penniless and pregnant during the regency era. Also, potentially, she has no custody of her own child. The only pass she might be granted is that she definitely had ptsd and pregnancy hormones (I’ve been their twice and I was not myself)
- a meddlesome Charlotte, she’s not a villain but she pries too much, which I found annoying
Overall, it was fine, but I am not interested in reading it again. Since I was captivated by the first half and managed to finish it (something I will not ever force myself to do), I give it a 3.
Likes:
- the narrative related to Elizabeth & the colonel’s “love story”, if you’re worried about this sort of trope , the author does an excellent job of explaining the contrast between the love she has for each man
- Darcy changes in honor of his cousin Fitzwilliam
- the natural friendship that builds between Darcy and Elizabeth while at Pemberley
- Darcy is a MOST patient suitor
- I do appreciate some of the history on women’s rights during this time (specifically, related to child custody)
Dislikes:
- Elizabeth! Wow, we have here one of the most stubborn, hard-headed, and VERY FAR from reasonable Elizabeth’s ever. She makes some extremely poor and SELFISH choices around the half-way mark and onward. The E in this story is BIG on independence (think feminism), but it was hard to put up with her obstinacy since she is both penniless and pregnant during the regency era. Also, potentially, she has no custody of her own child. The only pass she might be granted is that she definitely had ptsd and pregnancy hormones (I’ve been their twice and I was not myself)
- a meddlesome Charlotte, she’s not a villain but she pries too much, which I found annoying
Overall, it was fine, but I am not interested in reading it again. Since I was captivated by the first half and managed to finish it (something I will not ever force myself to do), I give it a 3.
April 2, 2025
I was disappointed with this one. I loved the premise and I knew that Moll could deliver lots of delicious angst, but instead the book felt very repetitive and distant. Elizabeth told us over and over, often in the same exact words, that she could never trust a man or anyone again after what happened in Spain. I know the author wanted the big reveal for the audience to happen at the same time it did for Darcy, but instead I think this tell-don't-show approach weakened our connection with and understanding of Elizabeth. Even if Moll wanted to hold some things back, I think it would have been more effective to give us flashbacks in bits and pieces. Let us see Elizabeth flinching back violently from connection and vulnerability as she relives a moment of horror. And while Elizabeth brings up some really salient points about women's legal status and how her legal personhood essentially evaporates upon marriage, that doesn't get resolved. There should have been some discussion of the terms of the marriage context in which Darcy did everything he could, within the framework of Regency legal code, to preserve Elizabeth's financial independence.
A swing and a miss sadly. I wanted to like it.
A swing and a miss sadly. I wanted to like it.
March 10, 2025
Not a favorite
The plot was different, which I appreciate. But by the 50% mark, the whole "women are powerless" theme got tedious. Charlotte seemed to be channeling Mrs. Bennet with her 'being married is your only choice" attitude. Glad I read it through KU, as I won't be re-reading it.
The plot was different, which I appreciate. But by the 50% mark, the whole "women are powerless" theme got tedious. Charlotte seemed to be channeling Mrs. Bennet with her 'being married is your only choice" attitude. Glad I read it through KU, as I won't be re-reading it.
Read
December 11, 2025DNF - 34% but will come back to this one
March 9, 2025
I adored this second chance variant. In this version Elizabeth meets Col. Fitzwilliam in London and marries him. Events thus proceed differently from the books with a more humble Darcy waiting for Elizabeth. It provides a solid description of the rights (or more precisely lack) of women in this period. Charlotte Lucas is an important character here, whose pragmatism provides a foil to Elizabeth. Is she a villain or a realist?
April 4, 2025
Babe, you won't marry Mr. Darcy because you want to be independent, but would willingly become a mistress to an evil count to "save your child"? Make this version of Elizabeth Darcy make sense.
February 16, 2025
Harsh realities
Harsh realities can break a person or make her/him stronger. And where is the breaking point for this strong person? Also oaks can break.
Elizabeth experienced some harsh things as the wife and then the widow of a soldier. But what “impressed” her even more was the neglect she felt by family and especially by men who claimed to love her. How could she ever trust them - rely on any man??? Her trust in them was absolutely broken and the situation made her see clearly how “much” women were valued.
She decided to survive and survive she did and her iron will helped her.
The book is quite long because it shows step by step the development – or non-development, or better: the struggling stubbornness – in Elizabeth when emotions of love enter her heart. Her fear of being dependent on a man never leaves her: can she trust a man, even an excellent man, and can she trust even in herself for not making a wrong decision – again?!
The book is intense, clever, emotional and nobody would like to be in Elizabeth’s skin. The reader might shake its head about her, having perhaps the same disheveled hair as Darcy on the beautiful cover – “Can she not see???” But he/she was never in her situation.
The cover is beautiful and shows exactly what the two main protagonists feel. Of course, Darcy will have a nicely coif in the end 😊
I got a copy in advance and while reading the book a second time I discovered many subtleties I didn’t realise the first time.
I am giving this book 5 stars and 5 extra twinkling stars to Fitzwilliam Darcy, a role model every woman is dreaming of 🩷
Harsh realities can break a person or make her/him stronger. And where is the breaking point for this strong person? Also oaks can break.
Elizabeth experienced some harsh things as the wife and then the widow of a soldier. But what “impressed” her even more was the neglect she felt by family and especially by men who claimed to love her. How could she ever trust them - rely on any man??? Her trust in them was absolutely broken and the situation made her see clearly how “much” women were valued.
She decided to survive and survive she did and her iron will helped her.
The book is quite long because it shows step by step the development – or non-development, or better: the struggling stubbornness – in Elizabeth when emotions of love enter her heart. Her fear of being dependent on a man never leaves her: can she trust a man, even an excellent man, and can she trust even in herself for not making a wrong decision – again?!
The book is intense, clever, emotional and nobody would like to be in Elizabeth’s skin. The reader might shake its head about her, having perhaps the same disheveled hair as Darcy on the beautiful cover – “Can she not see???” But he/she was never in her situation.
The cover is beautiful and shows exactly what the two main protagonists feel. Of course, Darcy will have a nicely coif in the end 😊
I got a copy in advance and while reading the book a second time I discovered many subtleties I didn’t realise the first time.
I am giving this book 5 stars and 5 extra twinkling stars to Fitzwilliam Darcy, a role model every woman is dreaming of 🩷
February 12, 2025
I will be the first to admit that I was a little nervous about the trope of this book (a widowed Elizabeth, to Col. Fitzwilliam nonetheless!). I am happy to say that I ended up loving this book and was glad that I took a chance and read it.
If you love a swoon-worthy Darcy, this book is for you! I loved his character; he was steadfast, patient, and loyal to Elizabeth despite the challenges they faced.
Elizabeth was a little too stubborn for my liking and I would often find myself frustrated with her, though after what she had experienced, her stubbornness is pretty well-justified.
This book was filled with angst and so much emotion that it was difficult for me to put it down! I highly recommend reading this book if you are a fan of P&P variations. The book is very well written and the open-door romance is tasteful but could be skipped over if you are not a fan of some spice in your books.
Overall, another amazing book by Heather Moll. She is one of my favorite P&P authors and I am already looking forward to her next book!
I received an ARC version of the book and am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
If you love a swoon-worthy Darcy, this book is for you! I loved his character; he was steadfast, patient, and loyal to Elizabeth despite the challenges they faced.
Elizabeth was a little too stubborn for my liking and I would often find myself frustrated with her, though after what she had experienced, her stubbornness is pretty well-justified.
This book was filled with angst and so much emotion that it was difficult for me to put it down! I highly recommend reading this book if you are a fan of P&P variations. The book is very well written and the open-door romance is tasteful but could be skipped over if you are not a fan of some spice in your books.
Overall, another amazing book by Heather Moll. She is one of my favorite P&P authors and I am already looking forward to her next book!
I received an ARC version of the book and am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
December 24, 2025
Well written but Elizabeth's thoughts/actions don't make sense and the book didn't actually address them as faults.
Elizabeth blames every men around her, but never herself for not knowing things about the world around her. With how important a factor money was in their sphere, its her fault also for not knowing her rights / limitations. In this, Elizabeth quickly marries colonel Fitzwilliam after only knowing him for a month and goes along with him willingly to Spain as though it will be a grand adventure. She doesn't seem to blame herself for quickly marrying or going with him. He apparently doesn't even discuss serious topics with her, so what exactly did they talk? Then, in Spain, when he dies, there is no money for Elizabeth to come home. Did she ever think to ask around and plan for his death? No, and the blame seems to only fall on Col Fitzwilliams parents for not sending money. She already knew Colonel Fitzwilliam's family didn't approve of his marriage, and that only Darcy even came to the wedding. She even writes to him informing the death, so why not ask the only member of her husband's family who even talk to them? Or, even Mr. Gardiner? Elizabeth even names her child after him, so why not ask the actual good men around her?. Elizabeth at this point knew about the 5k and thought it was safe, so she could have simply asked money from Darcy or Mr. Gardiner as a loan
Then after she is in Britain, she falls for darcy and he falls in love as well and proposes. She rejects him saying she won't be under control of another man. When he suggests marrying again, when the custody of her child is at risk, why not then? Marrying darcy means her child will remain with her. She could use the actual measures in law to protect herself and her children - like negotiate with Darcy herself for her settlement, his will etc? He is almost begging her, but no, apparently Elizabeth won't make any effort to do anything for herself. She only has 60 pounds per yr, if she is determined to live on that, why not atleast learn about cooking / taking care of her chores herself? We never see Elizabeth planning that either, she is still planning on getting maid, so she's going to sacrifice her child's education then? So convenient, why does she even want the child with her then? (darcy also offered to give her the money himself with no strings attached. Elizabeth would rather manage with 60 pounds per yr than accept money from darcy? She could have simply used the money for her child alone if she's so prideful but no, that's also not something this Elizabeth will do)
When Milton, Elizabeth's brother in law takes her and child with him, and says Elizabeth has to get pregnant by him and give him a heir and he'll give the her child back, she even thinks of doing it.. When all she has to do is, leave and ask Darcy to marry her, and then the child will be back and no one can do anything. Then darcy comes saves her, again asks her to come with him, and even after that she rejects him.. And, at this point, I'm like, the author makes Elizabeth do and say completely idiotic things just to keep the book going.
The book also treats Charlotte as a villain. But, Elizabeth never actually confides anything to Charlotte and gets angry with Charlotte when Charlotte decides to take action on her behalf. Conveniently every one seems to forget that, Charlotte was the one who hid the info about initial 5k darcy gave for Elizabeth and Elizabeth was only able to live with the interest from that. Darcy was fine with Charlotte making decisions on Elizabeth's behalf on that, Elizabeth also doesn't seem to view that as a big deal, but somehow when its another, she is all wrong? Charlotte had no idea how bad Milton was, even when they are arguing about it, Elizabeth doesn't say it. After this also, when they are talking at end, Elizabeth never says anything of what happened, and just expects Charlotte to be suddenly regretful. Is Charlotte supposed to read minds?
This Elizabeth isn't the canon intelligent Elizabeth. She never takes the time / effort to educate herself and empower herself and I'm honestly not sure what this darcy even sees in her. We are supposed to accept this darcy fell in love with her, just because we know in canon Darcy loved her. I'm honestly so disappointed.
This book has such an amazing darcy, who is constantly working to improve himself. But, Elizabeth's portrayal wasn't done well at all. The premise was good, but it should have included Elizabeth working on herself, which doesn't happen her. Also, Elizabeth / Col Fitzwilliam love is treated as some grand true love until the end, instead of 2 people in infatuation making a quick foolish decision.
Also, the first sex scene was ok. But was a sex scene really needed in an epilogue? 😂
Elizabeth blames every men around her, but never herself for not knowing things about the world around her. With how important a factor money was in their sphere, its her fault also for not knowing her rights / limitations. In this, Elizabeth quickly marries colonel Fitzwilliam after only knowing him for a month and goes along with him willingly to Spain as though it will be a grand adventure. She doesn't seem to blame herself for quickly marrying or going with him. He apparently doesn't even discuss serious topics with her, so what exactly did they talk? Then, in Spain, when he dies, there is no money for Elizabeth to come home. Did she ever think to ask around and plan for his death? No, and the blame seems to only fall on Col Fitzwilliams parents for not sending money. She already knew Colonel Fitzwilliam's family didn't approve of his marriage, and that only Darcy even came to the wedding. She even writes to him informing the death, so why not ask the only member of her husband's family who even talk to them? Or, even Mr. Gardiner? Elizabeth even names her child after him, so why not ask the actual good men around her?. Elizabeth at this point knew about the 5k and thought it was safe, so she could have simply asked money from Darcy or Mr. Gardiner as a loan
Then after she is in Britain, she falls for darcy and he falls in love as well and proposes. She rejects him saying she won't be under control of another man. When he suggests marrying again, when the custody of her child is at risk, why not then? Marrying darcy means her child will remain with her. She could use the actual measures in law to protect herself and her children - like negotiate with Darcy herself for her settlement, his will etc? He is almost begging her, but no, apparently Elizabeth won't make any effort to do anything for herself. She only has 60 pounds per yr, if she is determined to live on that, why not atleast learn about cooking / taking care of her chores herself? We never see Elizabeth planning that either, she is still planning on getting maid, so she's going to sacrifice her child's education then? So convenient, why does she even want the child with her then? (darcy also offered to give her the money himself with no strings attached. Elizabeth would rather manage with 60 pounds per yr than accept money from darcy? She could have simply used the money for her child alone if she's so prideful but no, that's also not something this Elizabeth will do)
When Milton, Elizabeth's brother in law takes her and child with him, and says Elizabeth has to get pregnant by him and give him a heir and he'll give the her child back, she even thinks of doing it.. When all she has to do is, leave and ask Darcy to marry her, and then the child will be back and no one can do anything. Then darcy comes saves her, again asks her to come with him, and even after that she rejects him.. And, at this point, I'm like, the author makes Elizabeth do and say completely idiotic things just to keep the book going.
The book also treats Charlotte as a villain. But, Elizabeth never actually confides anything to Charlotte and gets angry with Charlotte when Charlotte decides to take action on her behalf. Conveniently every one seems to forget that, Charlotte was the one who hid the info about initial 5k darcy gave for Elizabeth and Elizabeth was only able to live with the interest from that. Darcy was fine with Charlotte making decisions on Elizabeth's behalf on that, Elizabeth also doesn't seem to view that as a big deal, but somehow when its another, she is all wrong? Charlotte had no idea how bad Milton was, even when they are arguing about it, Elizabeth doesn't say it. After this also, when they are talking at end, Elizabeth never says anything of what happened, and just expects Charlotte to be suddenly regretful. Is Charlotte supposed to read minds?
This Elizabeth isn't the canon intelligent Elizabeth. She never takes the time / effort to educate herself and empower herself and I'm honestly not sure what this darcy even sees in her. We are supposed to accept this darcy fell in love with her, just because we know in canon Darcy loved her. I'm honestly so disappointed.
This book has such an amazing darcy, who is constantly working to improve himself. But, Elizabeth's portrayal wasn't done well at all. The premise was good, but it should have included Elizabeth working on herself, which doesn't happen her. Also, Elizabeth / Col Fitzwilliam love is treated as some grand true love until the end, instead of 2 people in infatuation making a quick foolish decision.
Also, the first sex scene was ok. But was a sex scene really needed in an epilogue? 😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2025
Heather Moll is one of my favorite authors in the Pride and Prejudice variation world and so I jumped on the chance to read one of her more recent releases, Without Undue Pride. She has a very special brand of Austen inspired fiction and that's definitely on display in this story. Prepare yourself though, because while this book definitely will make all Darcy and Elizabeth lovers happy, it also comes with quite a bit of angst and obstacles for our couple to overcome.
In Without Undue Pride, Moll gives us quite the twist on a second chance romance as Darcy initially meets Elizabeth as the newly married Mrs. Fitzwilliam, bride to his beloved cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam. Unfortunately for Elizabeth, she and the Colonel have little time to enjoy being newly married as he is sent back out to the front. Elizabeth takes on the mantle of a soldier's wife with grace and courage but the painful realities of war are lessons she was not prepared for.
When tragedy strikes and Elizabeth finds herself a widow spurned by the Fitzwilliam family, Darcy shows us all why he is the very best of men! Darcy honors his promise to his cousin and takes in Elizabeth, initially finding solace in a shared grief that few else understand. Moll gives us such a beautiful representation of Darcy's true and steadfast character. Through his interactions with Elizabeth and the growing attachment that he feels for her, readers have a first hand and much more intimate view into his evolution to become a better man. While his cousin is the initial inspiration for the change that he takes on, it is Elizabeth's strength, character and resilience in the face of unspeakable odds that really accelerate Darcy's truly coming into his own to be the kind of partner deserving of Elizabeth. And the way that he accepts, loves and protects Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam's child, without agenda or expectation, made me fall in love with Darcy all over again.
Be prepared, however, to need tissues and to be screaming at your book at times, because Moll takes you on the most painful of emotional rollercoasters. OMG the Fitzwilliam family are the WORST! Followed in close second by Charlotte--I won't spoil but man do we see the darkest side of her practical approach to the world. The pain that Elizabeth has to endure not only at the way the Fitzwiliams shun her but in how they seek to control her via their future family member is heartbreaking.
It is not surprising after all she endures, that Elizabeth rails against ever feeling a lack of control in her life. She fiercely defends her right to independently chart her own course and while it is admirable, there were so many times that I wanted to shake her because it also blinded her to the truth of what Darcy offered. He gives her the resources and space to claim her agency, even in spite of the pain it causes his heart and the destruction to his own potential future happiness.
In the end, Moll gives us a genuine perspective on what it means to bear heartache and grief in all its forms and also how empowering and freeing it is to truly be seen by one's partner in life. This was one of the more angst filled Darcy and Elizabeth stories I've read in a while, but it also had really wonderful moments of humor and tension-filled desire as our couple finds their way to one another in the most unconventional of ways.
I definitely recommend this read for all the Austen lovers out there and can't wait to see what type of journey Moll has planned next for one of my favorite literary couples!
In Without Undue Pride, Moll gives us quite the twist on a second chance romance as Darcy initially meets Elizabeth as the newly married Mrs. Fitzwilliam, bride to his beloved cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam. Unfortunately for Elizabeth, she and the Colonel have little time to enjoy being newly married as he is sent back out to the front. Elizabeth takes on the mantle of a soldier's wife with grace and courage but the painful realities of war are lessons she was not prepared for.
When tragedy strikes and Elizabeth finds herself a widow spurned by the Fitzwilliam family, Darcy shows us all why he is the very best of men! Darcy honors his promise to his cousin and takes in Elizabeth, initially finding solace in a shared grief that few else understand. Moll gives us such a beautiful representation of Darcy's true and steadfast character. Through his interactions with Elizabeth and the growing attachment that he feels for her, readers have a first hand and much more intimate view into his evolution to become a better man. While his cousin is the initial inspiration for the change that he takes on, it is Elizabeth's strength, character and resilience in the face of unspeakable odds that really accelerate Darcy's truly coming into his own to be the kind of partner deserving of Elizabeth. And the way that he accepts, loves and protects Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam's child, without agenda or expectation, made me fall in love with Darcy all over again.
Be prepared, however, to need tissues and to be screaming at your book at times, because Moll takes you on the most painful of emotional rollercoasters. OMG the Fitzwilliam family are the WORST! Followed in close second by Charlotte--I won't spoil but man do we see the darkest side of her practical approach to the world. The pain that Elizabeth has to endure not only at the way the Fitzwiliams shun her but in how they seek to control her via their future family member is heartbreaking.
It is not surprising after all she endures, that Elizabeth rails against ever feeling a lack of control in her life. She fiercely defends her right to independently chart her own course and while it is admirable, there were so many times that I wanted to shake her because it also blinded her to the truth of what Darcy offered. He gives her the resources and space to claim her agency, even in spite of the pain it causes his heart and the destruction to his own potential future happiness.
In the end, Moll gives us a genuine perspective on what it means to bear heartache and grief in all its forms and also how empowering and freeing it is to truly be seen by one's partner in life. This was one of the more angst filled Darcy and Elizabeth stories I've read in a while, but it also had really wonderful moments of humor and tension-filled desire as our couple finds their way to one another in the most unconventional of ways.
I definitely recommend this read for all the Austen lovers out there and can't wait to see what type of journey Moll has planned next for one of my favorite literary couples!
March 26, 2025
What is the last book that you read in one sitting? I started Without Undue Pride and read it in one sitting. I haven’t done that for a while – but I could not put this book down!
Elizabeth Bennet has met the dashing Colonel Fitzwilliam while visiting her Uncle and Aunt Gardiner in London. They have a whirlwind romance and are quickly married before Colonel Fitzwilliam must go overseas as part of the Napoleonic Wars. The Fitzwilliam family is not happy about Colonel Fitzwilliam’s “unsuitable” marriage, but his cousin, Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, is his only family member that does attend his wedding. He promises to be friends with Elizabeth. After Colonel Fitzwilliam is killed in battle, a pregnant Elizabeth is set adrift in the world with no one to help her. Mr. Darcy steps up to help his best friend and cousin’s widow. Will love bloom after such tragedy?
My thoughts on this novel:
• I LOVED this variation. It was such an interesting twist. I was intrigued throughout the novel with Elizabeth’s tragedy and wanted to know what exactly happened to her while she was overseas with Colonel Fitzwilliam. It was a painful story that she was finally able to tell Darcy over time.
• The characters all felt true to their original characterization in Austen’s novels. The only question I had was, would Mr. Bennet really leave Elizabeth widowed, pregnant, and alone in Spain? I know he didn’t like to exert himself too much, but he did go to London to look for Lydia. I pondered this through the novel.
• The growing love between Elizabeth and Darcy was so romantic. I loved the slow build to a couple of steamy chapters at the end. The friends to lovers and mutual respect between them was the type of relationship everyone should have.
• After all that happened to Elizabeth in Spain, she has trust issues. Every man in her life has let her down, and in Regency England, woman do not hold any power. Elizabeth has a hard time being able to trust a man after this and clings to her independence. I did want to shake some sense into her a couple of times, but I could understand her point of view.
• I like how Darcy was portrayed as a kind and considerate man, but also that he knew he had faults and worked on them. Colonel Fitzwilliam had made him promise to try to be a better person and to put himself out there socially. Darcy considered that almost his dying wish.
• I don’t want to spoil the plot, but there is some definite peril in this novel and Darcy must come to the rescue.
• The cover of this novel is beautiful. I showed it to my JASNA Northwoods book club on Sunday and they all liked the cover as well.
Overall, Without Undue Pride by Heather Moll was an intriguing and unique Pride and Prejudice variation. I enjoyed the romance, plot, and characters.
Book Source: Review copy from author Heather Moll as part of the Book Tour. Thank-you! Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2025...
Elizabeth Bennet has met the dashing Colonel Fitzwilliam while visiting her Uncle and Aunt Gardiner in London. They have a whirlwind romance and are quickly married before Colonel Fitzwilliam must go overseas as part of the Napoleonic Wars. The Fitzwilliam family is not happy about Colonel Fitzwilliam’s “unsuitable” marriage, but his cousin, Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, is his only family member that does attend his wedding. He promises to be friends with Elizabeth. After Colonel Fitzwilliam is killed in battle, a pregnant Elizabeth is set adrift in the world with no one to help her. Mr. Darcy steps up to help his best friend and cousin’s widow. Will love bloom after such tragedy?
My thoughts on this novel:
• I LOVED this variation. It was such an interesting twist. I was intrigued throughout the novel with Elizabeth’s tragedy and wanted to know what exactly happened to her while she was overseas with Colonel Fitzwilliam. It was a painful story that she was finally able to tell Darcy over time.
• The characters all felt true to their original characterization in Austen’s novels. The only question I had was, would Mr. Bennet really leave Elizabeth widowed, pregnant, and alone in Spain? I know he didn’t like to exert himself too much, but he did go to London to look for Lydia. I pondered this through the novel.
• The growing love between Elizabeth and Darcy was so romantic. I loved the slow build to a couple of steamy chapters at the end. The friends to lovers and mutual respect between them was the type of relationship everyone should have.
• After all that happened to Elizabeth in Spain, she has trust issues. Every man in her life has let her down, and in Regency England, woman do not hold any power. Elizabeth has a hard time being able to trust a man after this and clings to her independence. I did want to shake some sense into her a couple of times, but I could understand her point of view.
• I like how Darcy was portrayed as a kind and considerate man, but also that he knew he had faults and worked on them. Colonel Fitzwilliam had made him promise to try to be a better person and to put himself out there socially. Darcy considered that almost his dying wish.
• I don’t want to spoil the plot, but there is some definite peril in this novel and Darcy must come to the rescue.
• The cover of this novel is beautiful. I showed it to my JASNA Northwoods book club on Sunday and they all liked the cover as well.
Overall, Without Undue Pride by Heather Moll was an intriguing and unique Pride and Prejudice variation. I enjoyed the romance, plot, and characters.
Book Source: Review copy from author Heather Moll as part of the Book Tour. Thank-you! Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2025...
March 5, 2025
certainly good but 3.5 stars rounded up for darkness
EB & Col Fitzwilliam marry right b4 their deployment to Spain; Fitzwilliam Clan brutally (typical of the era) arrogant & disdainful, disowns the Col & reviles a young, naive EB (EF); & while FD is equally arrogant he loves his cousin enuff to show up for the quick wedding. Col lost in battle few days after our heroine newly dx pregnant; the Col made no resources known to EF so essentially she’s been abandoned in a foreign country by her/his family & forced to claw HER OWN WAY back to England w/no help from anyone. (Still wondering why the Gardiners didn’t reach out at least some way). Minor dealings w/any of the Bennets during her travails. Essentially this is about a naive girl’s emotional journey to self awareness while living w/brutal PTSD which renders her so desperately obstinate (to point of stupidity) it increases her struggles all the while she’s thinking she’s doing the best she can. EF is unknowingly dealing w/deep seated PTSD & grief, all enhanced no doubt by pregnancy hormones & decides early she will never ever rely on a man to help/aid her or her baby. (Brave in a Patriarchal Society) Not gonna smudge it, this is a very dark JAFF story. I’ve always loved this author’s work but admit I can only admire this effort. It’s very well written, wonderful, often snappy dialogue, excellent characterization (can easily believe emotionally barren Fitzwilliam Family acting as they do here-quite easily wished all manner of grief for them on behalf of our Lizzie) but admit, I had to skip some parts - too much for me. EF (Lizzie) thankfully has friends @Pemberly (FD steps up despite his ridiculous pride/arrogance which he brilliantly sets aside) but her deep seated PTSD will not allow her to trust his character & her rather idiotic subsequent choices lead to far more serious trauma for her/born very early son! after short postpartum period & the evil betrayal by a narcissist friend (shocking FR), we see a physical intervention & rescue by FD, EF is finally emotionally stable/free to see herself clearly & we get the BEST HEA (but imo it’s a slog until we get to the happy ending) idk if I will read again, maybe, but Lizzie’s trauma, PTSD, the patriarchal abuse of power unsettled me enuff w/b a while b4 I read again. Still in all, glad I finished this book.
EB & Col Fitzwilliam marry right b4 their deployment to Spain; Fitzwilliam Clan brutally (typical of the era) arrogant & disdainful, disowns the Col & reviles a young, naive EB (EF); & while FD is equally arrogant he loves his cousin enuff to show up for the quick wedding. Col lost in battle few days after our heroine newly dx pregnant; the Col made no resources known to EF so essentially she’s been abandoned in a foreign country by her/his family & forced to claw HER OWN WAY back to England w/no help from anyone. (Still wondering why the Gardiners didn’t reach out at least some way). Minor dealings w/any of the Bennets during her travails. Essentially this is about a naive girl’s emotional journey to self awareness while living w/brutal PTSD which renders her so desperately obstinate (to point of stupidity) it increases her struggles all the while she’s thinking she’s doing the best she can. EF is unknowingly dealing w/deep seated PTSD & grief, all enhanced no doubt by pregnancy hormones & decides early she will never ever rely on a man to help/aid her or her baby. (Brave in a Patriarchal Society) Not gonna smudge it, this is a very dark JAFF story. I’ve always loved this author’s work but admit I can only admire this effort. It’s very well written, wonderful, often snappy dialogue, excellent characterization (can easily believe emotionally barren Fitzwilliam Family acting as they do here-quite easily wished all manner of grief for them on behalf of our Lizzie) but admit, I had to skip some parts - too much for me. EF (Lizzie) thankfully has friends @Pemberly (FD steps up despite his ridiculous pride/arrogance which he brilliantly sets aside) but her deep seated PTSD will not allow her to trust his character & her rather idiotic subsequent choices lead to far more serious trauma for her/born very early son! after short postpartum period & the evil betrayal by a narcissist friend (shocking FR), we see a physical intervention & rescue by FD, EF is finally emotionally stable/free to see herself clearly & we get the BEST HEA (but imo it’s a slog until we get to the happy ending) idk if I will read again, maybe, but Lizzie’s trauma, PTSD, the patriarchal abuse of power unsettled me enuff w/b a while b4 I read again. Still in all, glad I finished this book.
March 30, 2025
I loved it!
Warning: This Pride and Prejudice variation contains open door content and mention of an OC's off page miscarriage.
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. Becoming a wife has cost her everything. Are his unflinching promises enough to make her risk the dangers of love once more?
Elizabeth Fitzwilliam, née Bennet, doesn’t believe she will ever trust. Left destitute and pregnant after her colonel husband dies on the battlefield, the once-lively widow is horrified when her brother-in-law threatens to seize custody of her child. So though she doesn’t have faith he’ll keep his word, the heartsore mother throws herself on the mercy of the one man who offers to help, the sternly handsome Mr. Darcy.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is unrelenting in matters of honour, and although he’s too busy mourning his relative to fully appreciate his guest’s quick wit and bright eyes, he finds unforeseen comfort in their blossoming friendship. Even with their attachment grows deeper, he’s perplexed by her broken-hearted confessions and staunch refusal to even consider another courtship.
Torn between her desires and her experience, Elizabeth’s careful plans shatter after a shocking betrayal, and while he yearns to take her hand in marriage, Darcy fears she may value her independence more than his proposal. Will betrayal and broken hearts stop their romance from blooming? 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.
P.S.
Don’t forget to scan the barcode at the end to subscribe to the authors newsletter and receive an exclusive copy of a short story to download and upload to your kindle.
Warning: This Pride and Prejudice variation contains open door content and mention of an OC's off page miscarriage.
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. Becoming a wife has cost her everything. Are his unflinching promises enough to make her risk the dangers of love once more?
Elizabeth Fitzwilliam, née Bennet, doesn’t believe she will ever trust. Left destitute and pregnant after her colonel husband dies on the battlefield, the once-lively widow is horrified when her brother-in-law threatens to seize custody of her child. So though she doesn’t have faith he’ll keep his word, the heartsore mother throws herself on the mercy of the one man who offers to help, the sternly handsome Mr. Darcy.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is unrelenting in matters of honour, and although he’s too busy mourning his relative to fully appreciate his guest’s quick wit and bright eyes, he finds unforeseen comfort in their blossoming friendship. Even with their attachment grows deeper, he’s perplexed by her broken-hearted confessions and staunch refusal to even consider another courtship.
Torn between her desires and her experience, Elizabeth’s careful plans shatter after a shocking betrayal, and while he yearns to take her hand in marriage, Darcy fears she may value her independence more than his proposal. Will betrayal and broken hearts stop their romance from blooming? 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.
P.S.
Don’t forget to scan the barcode at the end to subscribe to the authors newsletter and receive an exclusive copy of a short story to download and upload to your kindle.
March 5, 2025
I have to admit I was slightly reluctant going into this read. Like many JAFF readers, I don't love it when Darcy or Elizabeth have been married before, but Heather Moll is one of those writers who I'm willing to give the benefit of the doubt going in because her work is generally excellent. She writes well, she does her research, and she has a great editor, so I went ahead and gave it a shot. I'm SO glad I did! Without Undue Pride kept me glued to its pages from start to finish! I know people say this all the time, but I don't believe I have ever included this in a review before: I could not put it down!!!
Almost 20 years ago now, when I first found JAFF, I would read anything I could get my hands on because I loved these stories so much and there was not a lot published. Over half my reading was on the boards. But now there are so many Regency stories being published every month that I find they all seem to blend together, and I'm constantly looking for something that will feel fresh and new. Well, this story totally fits the bill! You will love how this Darcy is so determined to honor his cousin's last wishes. You will love how swoon-worthily wonderful this Darcy is to this Elizabeth. And you will absolutely at times want to scream at Elizabeth to open her eyes and let him in, let him love her, let herself trust him, but the angst is definitely worth it!!! And this is coming from an angst weenie. This book is just that good!
Before borrowing or purchasing this book you should know that there are open door scenes in this book, as the author has stated in her overview. Elizabeth is a widow, not a maiden, and this is a passionate couple. If you are a purist who wants only fade to black and chaste hand kisses, please choose another title instead of leaving a negative review!
Almost 20 years ago now, when I first found JAFF, I would read anything I could get my hands on because I loved these stories so much and there was not a lot published. Over half my reading was on the boards. But now there are so many Regency stories being published every month that I find they all seem to blend together, and I'm constantly looking for something that will feel fresh and new. Well, this story totally fits the bill! You will love how this Darcy is so determined to honor his cousin's last wishes. You will love how swoon-worthily wonderful this Darcy is to this Elizabeth. And you will absolutely at times want to scream at Elizabeth to open her eyes and let him in, let him love her, let herself trust him, but the angst is definitely worth it!!! And this is coming from an angst weenie. This book is just that good!
Before borrowing or purchasing this book you should know that there are open door scenes in this book, as the author has stated in her overview. Elizabeth is a widow, not a maiden, and this is a passionate couple. If you are a purist who wants only fade to black and chaste hand kisses, please choose another title instead of leaving a negative review!
February 9, 2025
Heather Moll's "Without Undue Pride" offers a compelling and emotionally resonant reimagining of the classic Pride and Prejudice story. Moll's well-paced narrative and well-developed characters stay true to the spirit of Jane Austen's original while exploring a fascinating "what if" scenario.
The story begins with the whirlwind marriage of Colonel Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth, a union that quickly turns tragic when he is lost in battle, leaving Elizabeth widowed and pregnant. Abandoned by both her own family and her husband's, she faces a difficult journey back to England. Darcy re-enters her life, offering her refuge at Pemberley. This sets the stage for a tender and evolving relationship as they navigate the complexities of grief, societal expectations, and burgeoning love.
Moll skillfully portrays Elizabeth's struggle to trust Darcy, given her past experiences and the power he holds over her life. The emotional depth of their connection is palpable, and readers will find themselves invested in their journey.
This story does have two open door scenes, but if skipped, do not take away from the overall story. For those who enjoy Charlotte Lucas, her character in this story is very much the product of her times and fits in with the original character.
"Without Undue Pride" is a must-read for fans of Jane Austen and historical romance. It's a story of love, loss, and the strength it takes to rebuild after tragedy. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well-crafted and emotionally engaging story with familiar and beloved characters. I was given an advanced copy to read and review.
The story begins with the whirlwind marriage of Colonel Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth, a union that quickly turns tragic when he is lost in battle, leaving Elizabeth widowed and pregnant. Abandoned by both her own family and her husband's, she faces a difficult journey back to England. Darcy re-enters her life, offering her refuge at Pemberley. This sets the stage for a tender and evolving relationship as they navigate the complexities of grief, societal expectations, and burgeoning love.
Moll skillfully portrays Elizabeth's struggle to trust Darcy, given her past experiences and the power he holds over her life. The emotional depth of their connection is palpable, and readers will find themselves invested in their journey.
This story does have two open door scenes, but if skipped, do not take away from the overall story. For those who enjoy Charlotte Lucas, her character in this story is very much the product of her times and fits in with the original character.
"Without Undue Pride" is a must-read for fans of Jane Austen and historical romance. It's a story of love, loss, and the strength it takes to rebuild after tragedy. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well-crafted and emotionally engaging story with familiar and beloved characters. I was given an advanced copy to read and review.
March 12, 2025
This is one author whose stories are automatic reads for me.
We do have a lot of angst in this story...especially when Elizabeth suffers betrayal...I won't say by whom as that would be a spoiler.
To start with we have Elizabeth and the Colonel marrying and being shunned by his family and largely ignored by hers. They are off to the war in Spain and within a few weeks tragedy strikes. The Colonel dies in battle. And on top of that not only is she pregnant but the bank in which he deposited all their money fails. So Elizabeth sells anything of value just to be able to send his body home to his parents.
She struggles to get home herself but as Darcy has promised the Colonel, he looks after her, taking her to Pemberley where she and Georgiana become friends.
And now on top of her being without a home and little income, we learn that the Colonel left no will in which he could have assigned her guardianship and custody of their child...yes, he knew she was pregnant before he died. This means that his brother, the Viscount can claim her child, which if it is a boy, would be heir to the Matlock estate. The Viscount has only a daughter, although he and his wife keep trying.
As Darcy and Elizabeth come to know and care for each other, Elizabeth wants nothing to do with another husband as her first one left her so badly off and she only trusts herself now.
I won't reveal any more here. There are long passages dealing with her stubborn insistence that she can now only trust herself and that she will manage. Read and see just how that works out!
We do have a lot of angst in this story...especially when Elizabeth suffers betrayal...I won't say by whom as that would be a spoiler.
To start with we have Elizabeth and the Colonel marrying and being shunned by his family and largely ignored by hers. They are off to the war in Spain and within a few weeks tragedy strikes. The Colonel dies in battle. And on top of that not only is she pregnant but the bank in which he deposited all their money fails. So Elizabeth sells anything of value just to be able to send his body home to his parents.
She struggles to get home herself but as Darcy has promised the Colonel, he looks after her, taking her to Pemberley where she and Georgiana become friends.
And now on top of her being without a home and little income, we learn that the Colonel left no will in which he could have assigned her guardianship and custody of their child...yes, he knew she was pregnant before he died. This means that his brother, the Viscount can claim her child, which if it is a boy, would be heir to the Matlock estate. The Viscount has only a daughter, although he and his wife keep trying.
As Darcy and Elizabeth come to know and care for each other, Elizabeth wants nothing to do with another husband as her first one left her so badly off and she only trusts herself now.
I won't reveal any more here. There are long passages dealing with her stubborn insistence that she can now only trust herself and that she will manage. Read and see just how that works out!
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