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A Heart's Secret: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Mr FD of Derbyshire has been paying a great deal of attention to a certain Miss B. Has one of England’s wealthiest bachelors finally been ensnared?FITZWILLIAM DARCY HAS A SECRET, one that haunts him at every turn. Against his better judgement, he accepts an invitation to a house party in Hertfordshire where he encounters the beautiful Miss Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn, whose lively spirits prove a welcome distraction from his sorrowful past. Yet his peace is disturbed by threats to his family and to his good name. Elizabeth is unexpectedly implicated, but should he suspect Elizabeth…or protect her?
AFTER THEIR FIRST MEETING at the assembly in Meryton, Elizabeth Bennet is convinced there can be no ruder man than Mr Darcy. But a series of encounters at Netherfield Park forces her to reconsider her opinion of him, and she soon learns that Mr Darcy is a man with hidden depths.
WHEN THE MYSTERIOUS ANNOUNCEMENT of their engagement is published in a London newspaper, she has no choice but to place her trust in him. They strike a deal, and suddenly Elizabeth is drawn into a web of deceit. Who is behind the malicious gossip column? What pain lies in Mr Darcy’s past? And what secret lies deep within her own heart?
A Heart's Secret is a forced engagement, wounded hero variation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. The content is clean and the angst level is moderate.
AFTER THEIR FIRST MEETING at the assembly in Meryton, Elizabeth Bennet is convinced there can be no ruder man than Mr Darcy. But a series of encounters at Netherfield Park forces her to reconsider her opinion of him, and she soon learns that Mr Darcy is a man with hidden depths.
WHEN THE MYSTERIOUS ANNOUNCEMENT of their engagement is published in a London newspaper, she has no choice but to place her trust in him. They strike a deal, and suddenly Elizabeth is drawn into a web of deceit. Who is behind the malicious gossip column? What pain lies in Mr Darcy’s past? And what secret lies deep within her own heart?
A Heart's Secret is a forced engagement, wounded hero variation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. The content is clean and the angst level is moderate.
276 pages, Paperback
Published February 9, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
December 8, 2025
Gossip fueled engagement.
As with Ali Scott's previous P&P variations, A Heart’s Secret, features sound writing and an intriguing plot. This one begins with a duel and Darcy’s guilt over a young man’s death, then moves to Meryton and the arrival of the Netherfield party. There's also a stranger in the town who turns his eyes upon Elizabeth. When gossip hits the London papers, tying Darcy and Elizabeth with whispers of courtship, it forces them into an engagement to save her reputation, and Darcy is quick to agree, wanting to protect her. They plan to end it eventually, but ongoing events will force them to stay together.
I liked seeing Elizabeth warm to Darcy as he digs into the rumors’ source, even bringing her to London to stay with his troubled cousin, Cecilia; and except for her, I didn't much care for the secondary characters in this story. Nasty people.
This story held me with its craft and pace, and I did enjoy it very much, but the bold, romantic depth that lifts these tales to life for me was missing. I love when authors dare to create a fiery, heartfelt connection between Darcy and Elizabeth with words that stir my soul a little, or make me laugh out loud. Here, while Scott presents them as honourable and respectable, which I appreciate always, their bond felt too tame, and alas, I found no thrill to sigh over. It doesn't have to cross over into a mature rating, but I wish for something to swoon over.
June 11-14, 2025 - This new-to-me narrator, Naomi-Rose Mock, is good, but I found some sentences were a bit mumbled and rushed making them unclear at times, and her tone often lacked emotion. If these things were improved upon, I would give her a second chance.
As with Ali Scott's previous P&P variations, A Heart’s Secret, features sound writing and an intriguing plot. This one begins with a duel and Darcy’s guilt over a young man’s death, then moves to Meryton and the arrival of the Netherfield party. There's also a stranger in the town who turns his eyes upon Elizabeth. When gossip hits the London papers, tying Darcy and Elizabeth with whispers of courtship, it forces them into an engagement to save her reputation, and Darcy is quick to agree, wanting to protect her. They plan to end it eventually, but ongoing events will force them to stay together.
I liked seeing Elizabeth warm to Darcy as he digs into the rumors’ source, even bringing her to London to stay with his troubled cousin, Cecilia; and except for her, I didn't much care for the secondary characters in this story. Nasty people.
This story held me with its craft and pace, and I did enjoy it very much, but the bold, romantic depth that lifts these tales to life for me was missing. I love when authors dare to create a fiery, heartfelt connection between Darcy and Elizabeth with words that stir my soul a little, or make me laugh out loud. Here, while Scott presents them as honourable and respectable, which I appreciate always, their bond felt too tame, and alas, I found no thrill to sigh over. It doesn't have to cross over into a mature rating, but I wish for something to swoon over.
June 11-14, 2025 - This new-to-me narrator, Naomi-Rose Mock, is good, but I found some sentences were a bit mumbled and rushed making them unclear at times, and her tone often lacked emotion. If these things were improved upon, I would give her a second chance.
February 23, 2025
Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth get over the hurdle of his insult at the Meryton Assembly sooner than usual in this unique variation, but plenty of other obstacles prevent them from achieving an early Happily Ever After.
The alterations from canon begin immediately, starting two years before the rest of the book and giving Darcy an additional cousin, Dominic, who dies in his arms in the opening scene-- the result of a deadly duel. When the story moves forward, a Mr. Bull has recently entered the Meryton neighborhood. While he can be charming and amusing, he enjoys making malicious mischief, and his behavior toward Elizabeth often makes her feel uncomfortable. Also, the reader learns that Darcy has received anonymous threatening notes from someone hinting at knowledge of Georgiana's almost-elopement in Ramsgate. Another significant plot point is the gossip column of a London newspaper, which starts reporting that Mr. FD of Derbyshire is showing particular attention to a Hertfordshire Miss B. The little on dits escalate to a point of serious alarm. The combination of the tittle-tattle in the paper and the menacing letters makes Darcy particularly uneasy, and only the nearness of Elizabeth Bennet seems to ease his anxiety. By the time she meets Mr. Wickham, Elizabeth doesn't find his complaints about Darcy to be completely believable.
Before long, London gossip reaches the point where Darcy and Elizabeth must announce that they're betrothed to protect her and her family from scandal. He arranges for her to stay in London with his cousin, Lady Cecilia Fulford, in order to be introduced to Society. While Lady Fulford quickly becomes a delightful friend to Elizabeth, Lord Fulford is quite the opposite, and Lady Fulford's brother, Lord Thorpe, is almost as bad.
The interactions between Elizabeth and Darcy are nicely written, firmly demonstrating their compatibility and chemistry. Darcy feels like a failure; he couldn't protect Dominic or Georgiana, and now he's not able to protect Elizabeth's reputation from attacks. It's a great story, with tension building as blackmail and unnerving gossip continue to plague them. Oh, the angst! Who is/are the villains, and why have they targeted Darcy??
Definitely a page-turner.
Content is clean.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The alterations from canon begin immediately, starting two years before the rest of the book and giving Darcy an additional cousin, Dominic, who dies in his arms in the opening scene-- the result of a deadly duel. When the story moves forward, a Mr. Bull has recently entered the Meryton neighborhood. While he can be charming and amusing, he enjoys making malicious mischief, and his behavior toward Elizabeth often makes her feel uncomfortable. Also, the reader learns that Darcy has received anonymous threatening notes from someone hinting at knowledge of Georgiana's almost-elopement in Ramsgate. Another significant plot point is the gossip column of a London newspaper, which starts reporting that Mr. FD of Derbyshire is showing particular attention to a Hertfordshire Miss B. The little on dits escalate to a point of serious alarm. The combination of the tittle-tattle in the paper and the menacing letters makes Darcy particularly uneasy, and only the nearness of Elizabeth Bennet seems to ease his anxiety. By the time she meets Mr. Wickham, Elizabeth doesn't find his complaints about Darcy to be completely believable.
Before long, London gossip reaches the point where Darcy and Elizabeth must announce that they're betrothed to protect her and her family from scandal. He arranges for her to stay in London with his cousin, Lady Cecilia Fulford, in order to be introduced to Society. While Lady Fulford quickly becomes a delightful friend to Elizabeth, Lord Fulford is quite the opposite, and Lady Fulford's brother, Lord Thorpe, is almost as bad.
The interactions between Elizabeth and Darcy are nicely written, firmly demonstrating their compatibility and chemistry. Darcy feels like a failure; he couldn't protect Dominic or Georgiana, and now he's not able to protect Elizabeth's reputation from attacks. It's a great story, with tension building as blackmail and unnerving gossip continue to plague them. Oh, the angst! Who is/are the villains, and why have they targeted Darcy??
Definitely a page-turner.
Content is clean.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 8, 2025
After reading in the Prologue of Darcy's anguish at the death of a "Dominic", we have Darcy in Hertfordshire and his insult at the assembly setting.
When gossip in the newspapers threatens to "ruin" both Elizabeth and then her sisters, Darcy offers marriage but settles for a "fake" engagement with Elizabeth to show the public that she is not a fortune hunter nor seductress.
She is taken to London and stays with Darcy's cousin, Lady Fulford. We are now introduced to the underbelly of London society with a well-known cortesan playing a part. Plus a new character, a Mr. Bull, giving the readers a man, almost in the role of Wickham. However, this man goes a little bit further when he tries to compromise E. Between Lady Fulford's husband and another cousin, Thorpe, we read much about how women had no rights in those times and how men could have mistresses with most not blinking an eye.
I did like the promise between Darcy and Elizabeth that they would have no secrets nor lies between them.
Even though ODC presents as an engaged couple gossip continues to show up in the papers. We also have Darcy receiving blackmail letters threatening to expose Georgiana's near-elopement. So there is another mystery. Darcy does have several men, including his lawyer, investigating, plus plans to entrap the blackmailer.
(BTW: We do find out who Dominic is during this tale.)
I did read and review the other two books in this group "In Want of a Wife".
When gossip in the newspapers threatens to "ruin" both Elizabeth and then her sisters, Darcy offers marriage but settles for a "fake" engagement with Elizabeth to show the public that she is not a fortune hunter nor seductress.
She is taken to London and stays with Darcy's cousin, Lady Fulford. We are now introduced to the underbelly of London society with a well-known cortesan playing a part. Plus a new character, a Mr. Bull, giving the readers a man, almost in the role of Wickham. However, this man goes a little bit further when he tries to compromise E. Between Lady Fulford's husband and another cousin, Thorpe, we read much about how women had no rights in those times and how men could have mistresses with most not blinking an eye.
I did like the promise between Darcy and Elizabeth that they would have no secrets nor lies between them.
Even though ODC presents as an engaged couple gossip continues to show up in the papers. We also have Darcy receiving blackmail letters threatening to expose Georgiana's near-elopement. So there is another mystery. Darcy does have several men, including his lawyer, investigating, plus plans to entrap the blackmailer.
(BTW: We do find out who Dominic is during this tale.)
I did read and review the other two books in this group "In Want of a Wife".
March 8, 2025
3.5 rounded up. This book was interesting and kept my attention. Darcy and Elizabeth find themselves engaged early on in this book in order to save Elizabeth’s reputation and the family’s good name. The engagement was meant to be temporary while the culprits causing all the mischief were discovered.
I enjoyed Darcy and Elizabeth having the opportunity to spend more time together and get to know and understand each other. I loved Lady Fulfort and sympathized with her character and circumstances.
This book had a lot of great things like romance, suspense and character development. I do wish Darcy or Elizabeth would have had a little more courage sooner in speaking about their feelings, but it was still a nice slow development of their romance. Lord Fulford was awful. His poor character and horrible actions added a lot of color to the story, but I felt it crossed the line of believability when he pretty much turned his wife’s home into a brothel.
Overall, this was a good P&P variation. It is original and engaging. The writing was very good.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed Darcy and Elizabeth having the opportunity to spend more time together and get to know and understand each other. I loved Lady Fulfort and sympathized with her character and circumstances.
This book had a lot of great things like romance, suspense and character development. I do wish Darcy or Elizabeth would have had a little more courage sooner in speaking about their feelings, but it was still a nice slow development of their romance. Lord Fulford was awful. His poor character and horrible actions added a lot of color to the story, but I felt it crossed the line of believability when he pretty much turned his wife’s home into a brothel.
Overall, this was a good P&P variation. It is original and engaging. The writing was very good.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 10, 2025
Review Published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
A Heart’s Secret is one of the best Pride & Prejudice variations I’ve read this year! It not only features a forced engagement, one of my favorite tropes, but also delivers a truly captivating page-turning story.
In this book, Mr. Darcy, who is still haunted by the tragic death of his cousin Dominic, starts receiving anonymous threats linked to Georgiana’s near elopement, while visiting Mr. Bingley at Netherfield. As if that weren’t difficult enough, a malicious gossip column starts a scandal, forcing Darcy and Elizabeth into a false engagement to protect her reputation. From that moment on, ODC joins forces to uncover the origin of the gossip and to get out of this difficult situation unscathed.
I loved everything about this book, but let’s start with the prologue. It immediately sparked my curiosity and set the tone of the story with its engaging and compelling writing style. From the very start, I was hooked, and as I continued reading, I became even more captivated by Elizabeth’s sharp wit, her emotional journey, and the fact that she wasn’t easily deceived by the villains. I also loved Mr. Darcy in this book and his brooding yet protective, endearing, mature, understanding, and caring nature. He was a swoon worthy hero!
Although I absolutely loved their personalities and the growth they demonstrated throughout the book, I loved even more how often the two of them interacted in a way that was both captivating and incredibly romantic. I loved seeing them together and watching them fall in love with each other. It was a beautiful love story, especially after Elizabeth finds herself entangled in Darcy’s world and begins to see the true depths of his character. Their journey is filled with heartfelt and tender moments that highlight the trust and love growing between them. I especially loved how they vowed to be honest with each other and worked together to uncover the villain threatening them. It was refreshing to see a story where misunderstandings didn’t constantly drive them apart or keep them from speaking their minds. Instead, they communicated openly, shared everything, and built a relationship based on honesty, trust and love.
Some of the secondary characters were just as captivating. I particularly admired Lady Cecilia Fulford, who provided a strong support to Elizabeth while also being a richly developed, multidimensional character. Additionally, Mr. Bull, an original character, brought a refreshing take to the plot that I really appreciated.
The setting was another aspect I loved in this book. I loved how the early part of the story in Hertfordshire had a charming, bucolic feel, with Mr. Darcy emerging as a protective hero, while in London, the glamour of the theatre and the elegance of park strolls wove a beautifully romantic atmosphere around their growing love story.
Summing up, A Heart’s Secret is a romance I recommend to all readers! It is beautifully written, with a captivating plot, well-developed characters, and a deeply romantic journey that will leave you eagerly turning the pages until the very end.
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
A Heart’s Secret is one of the best Pride & Prejudice variations I’ve read this year! It not only features a forced engagement, one of my favorite tropes, but also delivers a truly captivating page-turning story.
In this book, Mr. Darcy, who is still haunted by the tragic death of his cousin Dominic, starts receiving anonymous threats linked to Georgiana’s near elopement, while visiting Mr. Bingley at Netherfield. As if that weren’t difficult enough, a malicious gossip column starts a scandal, forcing Darcy and Elizabeth into a false engagement to protect her reputation. From that moment on, ODC joins forces to uncover the origin of the gossip and to get out of this difficult situation unscathed.
I loved everything about this book, but let’s start with the prologue. It immediately sparked my curiosity and set the tone of the story with its engaging and compelling writing style. From the very start, I was hooked, and as I continued reading, I became even more captivated by Elizabeth’s sharp wit, her emotional journey, and the fact that she wasn’t easily deceived by the villains. I also loved Mr. Darcy in this book and his brooding yet protective, endearing, mature, understanding, and caring nature. He was a swoon worthy hero!
Although I absolutely loved their personalities and the growth they demonstrated throughout the book, I loved even more how often the two of them interacted in a way that was both captivating and incredibly romantic. I loved seeing them together and watching them fall in love with each other. It was a beautiful love story, especially after Elizabeth finds herself entangled in Darcy’s world and begins to see the true depths of his character. Their journey is filled with heartfelt and tender moments that highlight the trust and love growing between them. I especially loved how they vowed to be honest with each other and worked together to uncover the villain threatening them. It was refreshing to see a story where misunderstandings didn’t constantly drive them apart or keep them from speaking their minds. Instead, they communicated openly, shared everything, and built a relationship based on honesty, trust and love.
Some of the secondary characters were just as captivating. I particularly admired Lady Cecilia Fulford, who provided a strong support to Elizabeth while also being a richly developed, multidimensional character. Additionally, Mr. Bull, an original character, brought a refreshing take to the plot that I really appreciated.
The setting was another aspect I loved in this book. I loved how the early part of the story in Hertfordshire had a charming, bucolic feel, with Mr. Darcy emerging as a protective hero, while in London, the glamour of the theatre and the elegance of park strolls wove a beautifully romantic atmosphere around their growing love story.
Summing up, A Heart’s Secret is a romance I recommend to all readers! It is beautifully written, with a captivating plot, well-developed characters, and a deeply romantic journey that will leave you eagerly turning the pages until the very end.
July 23, 2025
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Elizabeth Bennet is recently acquainted with the rich and haughty Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Darcy has been getting threatening letters, followed by speculative gossip in the papers.
When someone announces the (non-existent) betrothal of Elizabeth and Darcy in a London gossip column, the result could be the ruin of Elizabeth and all her sisters.
The only way to preserve her honour is for Darcy to offer an engagement. The plan is to work out who the enemy is, then quietly dissolve the betrothal.
Elizabeth is introduced to the judgemental world of the Ton and gets a close view of Society's dark underbelly.
The process of solving the puzzle, draws the couple closer but can true love come from such a challenging beginning.
Featuring a smart Elizabeth and a swoon worthy Darcy.
Ali Scott never disappoints!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Elizabeth Bennet is recently acquainted with the rich and haughty Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Darcy has been getting threatening letters, followed by speculative gossip in the papers.
When someone announces the (non-existent) betrothal of Elizabeth and Darcy in a London gossip column, the result could be the ruin of Elizabeth and all her sisters.
The only way to preserve her honour is for Darcy to offer an engagement. The plan is to work out who the enemy is, then quietly dissolve the betrothal.
Elizabeth is introduced to the judgemental world of the Ton and gets a close view of Society's dark underbelly.
The process of solving the puzzle, draws the couple closer but can true love come from such a challenging beginning.
Featuring a smart Elizabeth and a swoon worthy Darcy.
Ali Scott never disappoints!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 15, 2025
My Rating: 3.5* up to 4*
“I have failed you.”
The prologue of this story has you reeling! A duel and a death that leaves Mr. Darcy blaming himself. Who is this young man that Darcy loved and what impact will this have on the rest of the story? I was anxious to know.
“I shall ensure people know it was no fault of yours, that the admiration was entirely on my part, and I convinced you to accept.” (quote from the book)
Netherfield Park has been let at last and all of Meryton and Longbourn are anxious to meet the gentleman and his party. With Mr. Darcy’s insult made and everyone knowing it, why is there a notice in a London gossip magazine saying Mr FD of Derbyshire is paying a lot of attention to a Miss B? And then to have another state a possible engagement?!! Mr. Darcy is at his wit’s end but prepare yourself for a very noble Mr. Darcy. One who is trying to determine who is behind this malicious gossip. But that is only one of his problems.
“Until now, she had thought of Mr Darcy as unfeeling, yet there was a genuine anguish in his expression, and her generous heart was alive to his pain.” (quote from the book)
It was a pleasure to see how Miss Elizabeth comes to change her opinion of the taciturn Mr. Darcy. When he arranges for her to stay with a relative of his in London so his family can come to know her, his care and attention is evident, and Elizabeth’s stay brings her closer to one of the family members who is having problems of her own. My goodness, though, what a family!!
I loved Ms. Scott’s first two novels. They were poignant and emotive. However, I do have a major quibble with the unravelling of the mystery within this book which it took some of the ‘spark’ out of my enjoyment. (I kept muttering to myself, why are you not looking at…?) I will blame my love of historical murder mysteries for my frustration. I like puzzling out who the villains are, and I knew (and this is probably intentional) too quickly who the major villain was. The ‘why’ comes much later. However, and here is my problem, it took Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth ‘forever’ to come to this conclusion. But then, of course, the story would have been shorter.
Please don’t let my own personal frustration, take away from your enjoyment. There is an intriguing plot, new original characters, and the development of Elizabeth and Darcy’s relationship was one of the major reasons I rounded my rating up to four stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
March 6, 2025
When a gossip column in a London newspaper creates a social disaster for Darcy and Elizabeth, they must pretend an engagement until the mystery behind the rumor is solved. Elizabeth is taken to London to stay with his cousin, Lady Fulford, to meet the Matlocks, and to appear in social engagements. She is forced to weather the comments of the hens of the ton who consider her a floozy and a fortune-hunter.
Darcy also must contend with a blackmailer who threatens to reveal Georgiana's secret. Behind all of this is the melodrama with Darcy's feelings of guilt about his cousin, Dominic, as well as the disaster of Lady Fulford's marriage. Adding to the pathos is Lady Matlock, who seems to be just as evil as her brother. It's enough to make your head spin.
I enjoyed this, but couldn't help but wonder why Darcy and Elizabeth didn't put two and two together right off the bat, since it was rather obvious. Some further resolution for Lady Fulford would have been nice.
Darcy also must contend with a blackmailer who threatens to reveal Georgiana's secret. Behind all of this is the melodrama with Darcy's feelings of guilt about his cousin, Dominic, as well as the disaster of Lady Fulford's marriage. Adding to the pathos is Lady Matlock, who seems to be just as evil as her brother. It's enough to make your head spin.
I enjoyed this, but couldn't help but wonder why Darcy and Elizabeth didn't put two and two together right off the bat, since it was rather obvious. Some further resolution for Lady Fulford would have been nice.
March 3, 2025
I just loved this. There was drama, intrigue. Lizzy was a little more astute in her a assessments of men (she still misjudged Darcy to begin with). Darcy was beleaguered but noble of character. The villain was not hard to sort out (for those of us not in the middle of the drama), it took our MCs a little longer. ODC's relationship was lovely to watch evolving.
I am miffed however. How did I miss that this is the 3rd book that Ali Scott has put out? I am off now to find and read the second!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am miffed however. How did I miss that this is the 3rd book that Ali Scott has put out? I am off now to find and read the second!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 30, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this story, and I find Ms. Scott's writing style and flow of the plot to be compelling. Darcy's and Elizabeth's interplay was intense and romantic despite the casual veneer of conversation. I enjoyed the dialogue and banter as well as the display of Elizabeth's wit and her lack of mule-headedness. However, I felt that there were occasions when a character seemed to suddenly do an abrupt about-face—Darcy's sudden ardency, the Viscount's sudden hatred of a paramour, and Dominic's depression.
The story unfolds swiftly, engrossing me in the mystery, and I was surprised when I quickly reached the epilogue.
I recommend this book to a reader who is looking for a HEA for Darcy and Elizabeth but is comfortable with mild angst and the dissolution of Regency aristocracy.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story unfolds swiftly, engrossing me in the mystery, and I was surprised when I quickly reached the epilogue.
I recommend this book to a reader who is looking for a HEA for Darcy and Elizabeth but is comfortable with mild angst and the dissolution of Regency aristocracy.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 17, 2025
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: Mature teen:
>>Angst Level: Slight to Medium
>>Source: I received a free copy via Booksprout [1-22-25] and volunteered to leave a review. [Prologue + 23 chapters + Epilogue]
The prologue was gripping and set the tone for the emotional state of Mr. Darcy when he arrived in Hertfordshire. A gossip column suddenly took an inordinate interest in the affairs of Mr. D of Derbyshire during his stay in Meryton. He was linked with a Miss B of Meryton. Was it Miss Bingley or Miss Bennet? Subsequent columns would soon have Darcy and Miss B taking action to mediate the gossips in Meryton. Someone was out for revenge against Darcy and was using his sister as bait along with Miss Bennet of Longbourn. They spent the rest of the story attempting to find the source[s] of the gossip and who was feeding the newspapers information.
>>Rating: Mature teen:
>>Angst Level: Slight to Medium
>>Source: I received a free copy via Booksprout [1-22-25] and volunteered to leave a review. [Prologue + 23 chapters + Epilogue]
The prologue was gripping and set the tone for the emotional state of Mr. Darcy when he arrived in Hertfordshire. A gossip column suddenly took an inordinate interest in the affairs of Mr. D of Derbyshire during his stay in Meryton. He was linked with a Miss B of Meryton. Was it Miss Bingley or Miss Bennet? Subsequent columns would soon have Darcy and Miss B taking action to mediate the gossips in Meryton. Someone was out for revenge against Darcy and was using his sister as bait along with Miss Bennet of Longbourn. They spent the rest of the story attempting to find the source[s] of the gossip and who was feeding the newspapers information.
August 17, 2025
While Darcy stays at Netherfield to visit his friend Charles Bingley he encounters the lively Elizabeth Bennet. Soon after their first meeting an article in the gossip column of a London paper indicates an attachment between the two. This could not be further from the truth because, after Darcy's insult at the Meryton Assembly, Elizabeth is sure that there is no ruder man on the earth than Darcy. While she stays at Netherfield to nurse her sister Jane she learns that there is more to Darcy than his haughty rudeness and her resolve to hate him crumples. But then the paper reports of their engagement - when there is none in reality. To protect their reputations Darcy suggests a fake engagement. While they both stay in London they try to discover who is behind the articles.
Will they be able to stop the gossip articles? What other secrets will be revealed? And will their fake engagement become a real one?
The book was very well written by the author Ali Scott. I have also read her other books and liked them all very much. Therefore this book was no disappointment.
In this story Darcy and Elizabeth are, due to their fake engagement, forced to spend a lot of time together. I always like stories where they need to spend time together and come to know each other better in a relatively short time. This is also the case here. Due to their “engagement” they see each other regularly and learn to admire the qualities of each other. Therefore it is no surprise that in the end there might not only be a FAKE engagement 😉.
I like very much that the two also come to appreciate their company in times of distress and happiness. Especially Darcy needs to only think of Elizabeth to calm down when he is in a distressing situation.
Darcy was a bit more vulnerable in this variation than usual. Due to events in his past he has a lot of grief in his heart and nobody to share this with. As Darcy and Elizabeth decide that there should be no secrets between them Darcy finally has someone to confide in. And Elizabeth voluntarily shares his grief and comforts him. Only with her help Darcy is able to overcome his grief in the end.
Due to threats being represented in the form of articles in a gossip paper there is also a mystery to uncover in this story. I always like it when Darcy and Elizabeth need to search for hints and work together to solve a problem, therefore this story was very much to my liking. The gossip articles were printed anonymously in a newspaper which made it more challenging to reveal the culprit and stop the printing. Because of the unknown enemy who does not stop printing the next articles Darcy and Elizabeth also have more pressure to solve the case because, alongside, they fight to save their reputations which suffer due to the articles.
There is a new side character in this story I liked very much, it’s Lady Cecilia Fulford, Colonel Fitzwilliam’s sister. She is Mr Darcy’s cousin, too. Darcy brings Elizabeth to stay with his cousin at her London townhouse. Lady Fulford is of great help for Darcy and Elizabeth but, as Elizabeth finds out, has her own struggles to fight. Therefore Elizabeth decides to help her and with this also shows Darcy what a compassionate woman she is. That makes him fall in love with her even more.
There are some new villains in the story, some more nefarious than others, but fortunately their machinations are uncovered at the end. From the “old” villains you will encounter Wickham and Lady Catherine. There are also some side characters who behave in a morally deplorable way. But I will not say too much, you need to find out for yourself.
If you like to know how an article in a gossip paper can lead to an engagement between Darcy and Elizabeth you should definitely read this book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
_____
Addition for the audiobook:
The audiobook was narrated by Naomi Rose-Mock. She was a new narrator to me but I liked her performance very much. She has a very pleasant way of narrating the story. I hope, in future, she will narrate more Jane Austen fan fiction. Her narration made a good book even better and I enjoyed hearing the story even more than only reading it.
Will they be able to stop the gossip articles? What other secrets will be revealed? And will their fake engagement become a real one?
The book was very well written by the author Ali Scott. I have also read her other books and liked them all very much. Therefore this book was no disappointment.
In this story Darcy and Elizabeth are, due to their fake engagement, forced to spend a lot of time together. I always like stories where they need to spend time together and come to know each other better in a relatively short time. This is also the case here. Due to their “engagement” they see each other regularly and learn to admire the qualities of each other. Therefore it is no surprise that in the end there might not only be a FAKE engagement 😉.
I like very much that the two also come to appreciate their company in times of distress and happiness. Especially Darcy needs to only think of Elizabeth to calm down when he is in a distressing situation.
Darcy was a bit more vulnerable in this variation than usual. Due to events in his past he has a lot of grief in his heart and nobody to share this with. As Darcy and Elizabeth decide that there should be no secrets between them Darcy finally has someone to confide in. And Elizabeth voluntarily shares his grief and comforts him. Only with her help Darcy is able to overcome his grief in the end.
Due to threats being represented in the form of articles in a gossip paper there is also a mystery to uncover in this story. I always like it when Darcy and Elizabeth need to search for hints and work together to solve a problem, therefore this story was very much to my liking. The gossip articles were printed anonymously in a newspaper which made it more challenging to reveal the culprit and stop the printing. Because of the unknown enemy who does not stop printing the next articles Darcy and Elizabeth also have more pressure to solve the case because, alongside, they fight to save their reputations which suffer due to the articles.
There is a new side character in this story I liked very much, it’s Lady Cecilia Fulford, Colonel Fitzwilliam’s sister. She is Mr Darcy’s cousin, too. Darcy brings Elizabeth to stay with his cousin at her London townhouse. Lady Fulford is of great help for Darcy and Elizabeth but, as Elizabeth finds out, has her own struggles to fight. Therefore Elizabeth decides to help her and with this also shows Darcy what a compassionate woman she is. That makes him fall in love with her even more.
There are some new villains in the story, some more nefarious than others, but fortunately their machinations are uncovered at the end. From the “old” villains you will encounter Wickham and Lady Catherine. There are also some side characters who behave in a morally deplorable way. But I will not say too much, you need to find out for yourself.
If you like to know how an article in a gossip paper can lead to an engagement between Darcy and Elizabeth you should definitely read this book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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Addition for the audiobook:
The audiobook was narrated by Naomi Rose-Mock. She was a new narrator to me but I liked her performance very much. She has a very pleasant way of narrating the story. I hope, in future, she will narrate more Jane Austen fan fiction. Her narration made a good book even better and I enjoyed hearing the story even more than only reading it.
March 8, 2025
There is nothing I love more than a good P&P variation. "A Heart's Secret" is a unique and unexplored what-if scenario that both expands characters from canon, develops some new ones, and gives us an authentic plot with ODC.
Elizabeth and Darcy entering a fake courtship was really not on my radar. It would have been such a difficult thing to do, especially as it could really hurt a woman at that time. But you know Darcy already had a connection to Elizabeth and just hadn't admitted the depth of his interest and attraction to himself. He really proved to be quite a good friend to Elizabeth while the threat of multiple scandals hung over their heads like the sword of Damocles. I thought my heart would absolutely tear in two if Elizabeth did meet someone besides Darcy to marry! As an E&D purist, I was on the edge of my seat!
I loved the undercurrent of mystery while my favorite couple worked out their true feelings and desires for the future. The introduction of a new villain made this variation feel fresh without losing the things we love about ODC. In fact, despite the uphill battle, I quite enjoyed this variation on the road to their HEA.
I received a complimentary copy of the author's story to read without an expectation of a positive review. All thoughts contained here are my own.
Elizabeth and Darcy entering a fake courtship was really not on my radar. It would have been such a difficult thing to do, especially as it could really hurt a woman at that time. But you know Darcy already had a connection to Elizabeth and just hadn't admitted the depth of his interest and attraction to himself. He really proved to be quite a good friend to Elizabeth while the threat of multiple scandals hung over their heads like the sword of Damocles. I thought my heart would absolutely tear in two if Elizabeth did meet someone besides Darcy to marry! As an E&D purist, I was on the edge of my seat!
I loved the undercurrent of mystery while my favorite couple worked out their true feelings and desires for the future. The introduction of a new villain made this variation feel fresh without losing the things we love about ODC. In fact, despite the uphill battle, I quite enjoyed this variation on the road to their HEA.
I received a complimentary copy of the author's story to read without an expectation of a positive review. All thoughts contained here are my own.
April 1, 2025
Very nice
The book begins in the usual way with all of the acrimony between Darcy and Elizabeth. A shady character, Mr Bull, comes to Meryton and Elizabeth can feel that he's no good. After a newspaper article in a gossip rag implicating Darcy and Elizabeth in a scandalous way, they're forced to feign an engagement in order to save their reputations. Elizabeth dislikes Darcy, while he's been fighting his strong attraction to her. They go to London so that Elizabeth can meet Darcy's relations, and much intrigue ensues.
The bulk of the story is about Elizabeth and Darcy's quest to figure out who publishes nasty articles about them, and also who is threatening to reveal Georgiana's near scandal. However, the romance of ODC is lovely. The mystery they're trying to solve had me guessing up until the end. I deducted a star because the sad situation of Darcy's family, their coldness, depravity, and just general unhappiness cast a pall over most of the story. Also, the epilogue didn't tie up all of the loose ends. We never learn what became of several bad guys, and whether they had comeuppances.
The book is very well written and well edited. I enjoyed it greatly and recommend it highly.
The book begins in the usual way with all of the acrimony between Darcy and Elizabeth. A shady character, Mr Bull, comes to Meryton and Elizabeth can feel that he's no good. After a newspaper article in a gossip rag implicating Darcy and Elizabeth in a scandalous way, they're forced to feign an engagement in order to save their reputations. Elizabeth dislikes Darcy, while he's been fighting his strong attraction to her. They go to London so that Elizabeth can meet Darcy's relations, and much intrigue ensues.
The bulk of the story is about Elizabeth and Darcy's quest to figure out who publishes nasty articles about them, and also who is threatening to reveal Georgiana's near scandal. However, the romance of ODC is lovely. The mystery they're trying to solve had me guessing up until the end. I deducted a star because the sad situation of Darcy's family, their coldness, depravity, and just general unhappiness cast a pall over most of the story. Also, the epilogue didn't tie up all of the loose ends. We never learn what became of several bad guys, and whether they had comeuppances.
The book is very well written and well edited. I enjoyed it greatly and recommend it highly.
March 8, 2025
The story has a sombre, gloomy tone from the start. Not any joy in it, and the romance was weak and unsatisfying. As it unfolds it turns worse, outright sordid and totally off-tone for an Austen Variation.
The set-up of the mystery was clumsy, ill-planned, and hardly logical. There were obvious “clues” dropped early on that forcedly Silly Lizzy and Blunt-minded Darcy failed to see until the end (painting both characters as really stupid was not easy to believe!). There was a shocking lack of logic and common sense all around — every other page one could scream WHY, when crazy, sordid, illogical scenes unfolded to no benefit to the story arc.
It needs some tough-love editing, in my opinion!
The set-up of the mystery was clumsy, ill-planned, and hardly logical. There were obvious “clues” dropped early on that forcedly Silly Lizzy and Blunt-minded Darcy failed to see until the end (painting both characters as really stupid was not easy to believe!). There was a shocking lack of logic and common sense all around — every other page one could scream WHY, when crazy, sordid, illogical scenes unfolded to no benefit to the story arc.
It needs some tough-love editing, in my opinion!
October 29, 2025
I loved it!
Warning: Meant for mature audiences. Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is part of In Want of a Wife series. This is a forced engagement, wounded hero variation and the content is clean and the angst level is moderate. Mr FD of Derbyshire has been paying a great deal of attention to a certain Miss B. Has one of England’s wealthiest bachelors finally been ensnared?
Fitzwilliam Darcy has a secret, one that haunts him at every turn. Against his better judgement, he accepts an invitation to a house party in Hertfordshire where he encounters the beautiful Miss Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn, whose lively spirits prove a welcome distraction from his sorrowful past. Yet his peace is disturbed by threats to his family and to his good name. Elizabeth is unexpectedly implicated, but should he suspect Elizabeth, or protect her?
After their first meeting at the assembly in Meryton, Elizabeth Bennet is convinced there can be no ruder man than Mr Darcy, but a series of encounters at Netherfield Park forces her to reconsider her opinion of him, and she soon learns that Mr Darcy is a man with hidden depths. When the mysterious announcement of their engagement is published in a London newspaper, she has no choice but to place her trust in him. They strike a deal, and suddenly Elizabeth is drawn into a web of deceit. Who is behind the malicious gossip column? What pain lies in Mr Darcy’s past, and what secret lies deep within her own heart? 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.
Warning: Meant for mature audiences. Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is part of In Want of a Wife series. This is a forced engagement, wounded hero variation and the content is clean and the angst level is moderate. Mr FD of Derbyshire has been paying a great deal of attention to a certain Miss B. Has one of England’s wealthiest bachelors finally been ensnared?
Fitzwilliam Darcy has a secret, one that haunts him at every turn. Against his better judgement, he accepts an invitation to a house party in Hertfordshire where he encounters the beautiful Miss Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn, whose lively spirits prove a welcome distraction from his sorrowful past. Yet his peace is disturbed by threats to his family and to his good name. Elizabeth is unexpectedly implicated, but should he suspect Elizabeth, or protect her?
After their first meeting at the assembly in Meryton, Elizabeth Bennet is convinced there can be no ruder man than Mr Darcy, but a series of encounters at Netherfield Park forces her to reconsider her opinion of him, and she soon learns that Mr Darcy is a man with hidden depths. When the mysterious announcement of their engagement is published in a London newspaper, she has no choice but to place her trust in him. They strike a deal, and suddenly Elizabeth is drawn into a web of deceit. Who is behind the malicious gossip column? What pain lies in Mr Darcy’s past, and what secret lies deep within her own heart? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
February 26, 2025
Gossip forces Darcy and Elizabeth to team up.
This book is well-written and has a good pace that leads the reader from beginning to end. There were no egregious grammatical errors that disrupted my reading.
The author portrayed Darcy and Elizabeth as imperfect humans with faults and naiivité. They aren't superhumans. Not being in control frustrated Darcy. He feared he would fail the ones he loved again. Elizabeth isn't Wonder Woman. She doesn't have all the answers and allows Darcy to see the hurt she feels when injured by those around her.
I liked the way their relationship developed once they were both in London. The "no secrets between us" philosophy carried them through difficult times and made them a stronger couple.
All that being said or written, this book isn't going into my "Reread Collection." Why? Now, remember that this is a personal preference. I like clean, sweet stories.
Too much of this story revolves around the immorality portrayed by people around them. Neither they nor their actions are glorified. (No graphic descriptions.) Neither Darcy nor Elizabeth participate in such conduct but are disgusted by such licentiousness and lewd speech, and they are not afraid to say so. Even though Darcy and Elizabeth's reactions to the sordid behavior drove much of the story, such behavior received too much page time for my tastes.
Truly, for most of the book, I liked only a handful of characters: Darcy, Elizabeth, the Gardiner family, and two of Darcy's cousins. So, according to my preferences, I would give Her Heart's Secret three stars. However, that score does not give the author her due for the quality of her writing or gifted manner of weaving a story. Please note that I gave two other books by Ms. Scott 4.5 stars, and I look forward to reading her next book. Therefore, I give Her Heart's Secret four stars. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is well-written and has a good pace that leads the reader from beginning to end. There were no egregious grammatical errors that disrupted my reading.
The author portrayed Darcy and Elizabeth as imperfect humans with faults and naiivité. They aren't superhumans. Not being in control frustrated Darcy. He feared he would fail the ones he loved again. Elizabeth isn't Wonder Woman. She doesn't have all the answers and allows Darcy to see the hurt she feels when injured by those around her.
I liked the way their relationship developed once they were both in London. The "no secrets between us" philosophy carried them through difficult times and made them a stronger couple.
All that being said or written, this book isn't going into my "Reread Collection." Why? Now, remember that this is a personal preference. I like clean, sweet stories.
Too much of this story revolves around the immorality portrayed by people around them. Neither they nor their actions are glorified. (No graphic descriptions.) Neither Darcy nor Elizabeth participate in such conduct but are disgusted by such licentiousness and lewd speech, and they are not afraid to say so. Even though Darcy and Elizabeth's reactions to the sordid behavior drove much of the story, such behavior received too much page time for my tastes.
Truly, for most of the book, I liked only a handful of characters: Darcy, Elizabeth, the Gardiner family, and two of Darcy's cousins. So, according to my preferences, I would give Her Heart's Secret three stars. However, that score does not give the author her due for the quality of her writing or gifted manner of weaving a story. Please note that I gave two other books by Ms. Scott 4.5 stars, and I look forward to reading her next book. Therefore, I give Her Heart's Secret four stars. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2025
I think I enjoy most P&P variations ... I already adore the characters and am familiar with them, so an "alternate reality" revision is easy to get into. While I was IN this, I think I liked it more than when I finished and took a moment to think back on it. I questioned more.
Told in the traditional 3rd person/past tense ... I felt like we got more of Darcy's perspective than in the original. The usual 1811 setting to start, right before the Bennets meet the Bingleys/Darcy.
Here, Darcy is preoccupied with the death of his young cousin (one of the many new additions/characters) and some threatening notes (regarding Georgiana). There were MANY new characters. A Mr Bull ... which, in audio (miss D Bull), sounded a little too reminiscent of Miss De Bourgh. Something I never would have thought of if reading on my own, and even if the pronunciation was that close ... it was close enough to make me think it every time (and he's mentioned 100+ times). There were also more "new" cousins/family (Fulford family, the Thorpes, whereas the Bennet family doesn't get much story time at all).
I guess I just didn't really get the whole premise here ... I've read another variation (can't remember which one right off) that also featured the "gossip rags" (ala Whistledown/Bridgerton). While that was a major plot point, forcing D&E together (although I don't know that I really thought that was believable, that they'd pretend and then have Lizzie break the engagement after finding someone else to marry?) There was the Dominic backstory, an inclusion of which I didn't really understand the reason behind. The threats against Georgie, also the "gossip" ...
... while it wasn't unenjoyable, and I easily finished the book, it felt convoluted and stretched believability too much. I don't care for the cover image, and the title isn't one that will stand out at all.
Told in the traditional 3rd person/past tense ... I felt like we got more of Darcy's perspective than in the original. The usual 1811 setting to start, right before the Bennets meet the Bingleys/Darcy.
Here, Darcy is preoccupied with the death of his young cousin (one of the many new additions/characters) and some threatening notes (regarding Georgiana). There were MANY new characters. A Mr Bull ... which, in audio (miss D Bull), sounded a little too reminiscent of Miss De Bourgh. Something I never would have thought of if reading on my own, and even if the pronunciation was that close ... it was close enough to make me think it every time (and he's mentioned 100+ times). There were also more "new" cousins/family (Fulford family, the Thorpes, whereas the Bennet family doesn't get much story time at all).
I guess I just didn't really get the whole premise here ... I've read another variation (can't remember which one right off) that also featured the "gossip rags" (ala Whistledown/Bridgerton). While that was a major plot point, forcing D&E together (although I don't know that I really thought that was believable, that they'd pretend and then have Lizzie break the engagement after finding someone else to marry?) There was the Dominic backstory, an inclusion of which I didn't really understand the reason behind. The threats against Georgie, also the "gossip" ...
... while it wasn't unenjoyable, and I easily finished the book, it felt convoluted and stretched believability too much. I don't care for the cover image, and the title isn't one that will stand out at all.
September 24, 2025
Scandal newspaper report & what will happen
4 1/2 stars rounded up
This story opens with Darcy dealing with a tragic situation and is intertwined through the end of the story. Almost from the get-go canon is changed as new characters are added. We try and figure out who these people are and how it will or will not affect our favorite characters. Darcy is receiving mysterious notes and he’s trying to solve the mystery of who knows this information and then his name, more specifically, his initials are showing up in the London scandal sheets. his initials are being linked to someone where he is currently residing, in the Meryton area.
Unfortunately, the gossip takes a nasty turn when it links Darcy and Elizabeth together in a secret engagement but then also hint at inappropriate conduct. Thankfully, Darcy is an honorable man and he along with Mr. Bennet and Elizabeth come up with a plan. The remaining of the story takes place in London intertwined with many of Darcy‘s family members. Some good & some not so good.
The mystery continues as they try and figure out who is against them. I love that during this time both Darcy and Elizabeth realize that they can and do care for each other.
For the audiobook: if you’ve read any of my other reviews, you’ll know that I love audiobooks. This is a new to me narrator and I think this was her first P & P narrated book. There were a few vocal things that did catch me off guard as I listened, but if she continues, I’m sure she’ll get better as many of the other phenomenal narrators have done.
4 1/2 stars rounded up
This story opens with Darcy dealing with a tragic situation and is intertwined through the end of the story. Almost from the get-go canon is changed as new characters are added. We try and figure out who these people are and how it will or will not affect our favorite characters. Darcy is receiving mysterious notes and he’s trying to solve the mystery of who knows this information and then his name, more specifically, his initials are showing up in the London scandal sheets. his initials are being linked to someone where he is currently residing, in the Meryton area.
Unfortunately, the gossip takes a nasty turn when it links Darcy and Elizabeth together in a secret engagement but then also hint at inappropriate conduct. Thankfully, Darcy is an honorable man and he along with Mr. Bennet and Elizabeth come up with a plan. The remaining of the story takes place in London intertwined with many of Darcy‘s family members. Some good & some not so good.
The mystery continues as they try and figure out who is against them. I love that during this time both Darcy and Elizabeth realize that they can and do care for each other.
For the audiobook: if you’ve read any of my other reviews, you’ll know that I love audiobooks. This is a new to me narrator and I think this was her first P & P narrated book. There were a few vocal things that did catch me off guard as I listened, but if she continues, I’m sure she’ll get better as many of the other phenomenal narrators have done.
March 25, 2025
This is a early engagement story with a lot of attempted blackmail. For once, neither Darcy nor Elizabeth are in any way responsible for the need to get engaged - there's no jumping the gun, Darcy putting his foot in his mouth, or them falling into a compromise. Rumors from London about Darcy force his hand towards that classic Darcy well-meaning obligation. Who the blackmailer is is a bit of a mystery throughout and ODC grow to trust and rely on one another in the face of all the bullshit. Darcy has a female cousin in this story who is a great addition and someone that's easy to sympathize with. She and Elizabeth are similar in personality and so it provides an interesting alternate reality of what a woman's fate could be with Elizabeth's personality in the Regency setting if she didn't have a Darcy. I liked how Scott didn't lean very heavy on the "find another man so Elizabeth can get out of the engagement" stuff that gets teased as a plot direction early. That is, thankfully, not the central drama and there is little to no true angst regarding Darcy and Elizabeth's romance. I don't usually care for the mystery-inflected variations, but after reading Scott's other work, I decided to give this one a try and am glad I did.
March 4, 2025
A very satisfying read
Another success from Ali Scott, this is an excellent book with plenty of interest to keep the reader engaged right to the very end. The use of language is delicious and the characterisation is spot on.
This is not a soft fluffy story but is deep in content and style. This is a proper Austen variation with a writing style which I am sure would please Miss Austen herself.
Whilst the plot is dark at times in terms of subject matter, there is just the right amount of wit and humour scattered throughout.
I very much appreciate the authors who are prepared to write about the reality of life, both the glorious and the not-so-glorious, whilst tempering it with the level of escapism which a reader seeks. This hit the mark perfectly.
Another success from Ali Scott, this is an excellent book with plenty of interest to keep the reader engaged right to the very end. The use of language is delicious and the characterisation is spot on.
This is not a soft fluffy story but is deep in content and style. This is a proper Austen variation with a writing style which I am sure would please Miss Austen herself.
Whilst the plot is dark at times in terms of subject matter, there is just the right amount of wit and humour scattered throughout.
I very much appreciate the authors who are prepared to write about the reality of life, both the glorious and the not-so-glorious, whilst tempering it with the level of escapism which a reader seeks. This hit the mark perfectly.
March 12, 2025
A wicked duel. A lost kin. A shaken heart. A false rumor. A forced engagement. A pretended courtship. All leads to …?
This Darcy is not proud or arrogant, just out of spirit and deflated by troubles in life.
For the first half of the book, it was a bit disappointing to me that Elizabeth seemed like no more than a pretty face just as everyone said. The interactions between Darcy and Elizabeth were sweet, while at the same time the mystery was really annoying. One minute I was enjoying the courtship, and the next I was pulled back to the troubles generated by the malice.
However, I was very happy to see Elizabeth putting her wit in action by the second half of the story and thinking, ‘that’s my girl!’ Very satisfying ending.
Fast-paced and interesting
This Darcy is not proud or arrogant, just out of spirit and deflated by troubles in life.
For the first half of the book, it was a bit disappointing to me that Elizabeth seemed like no more than a pretty face just as everyone said. The interactions between Darcy and Elizabeth were sweet, while at the same time the mystery was really annoying. One minute I was enjoying the courtship, and the next I was pulled back to the troubles generated by the malice.
However, I was very happy to see Elizabeth putting her wit in action by the second half of the story and thinking, ‘that’s my girl!’ Very satisfying ending.
Fast-paced and interesting
July 7, 2025
This clever Pride and Prejudice variation is a fast-paced, tension-filled listen that I thoroughly enjoyed. The story brings new depth to the beloved characters, especially Mr. Darcy, whose haunting secret adds a compelling layer of mystery. Elizabeth’s journey—from mistrust to reluctant ally—is well crafted, and the romantic suspense builds beautifully. The narrator was terrific—her tone, pacing, and delivery were spot on, enhancing the emotional tension and keeping me fully engaged. A wonderfully done retelling with just the right mix of angst, intrigue, and romance. Highly recommend for Austen fans!
April 27, 2025
This was a forced engagement scenario. Someone seems to have a vendetta against Elizabeth and maybe Darcy. Right after their first meeting at the Meryton assembly (and, yes, Darcy’s infamous insult) an engagement announcement between Darcy and Elizabeth appears in a gossip column. With her reputation on the line, Elizabeth agrees to a faux engagement with Darcy meaning to break it off as soon as the gossip dies down. Instead more gossip appears and also begins to include information alluding to Georgiana’s interlude in Ramsgate and demanding money to ensure her secret is not revealed in the paper.
Darcy and Elizabeth must uncover the reasons for the venom directed at Elizabeth and Georgiana before time runs out and Georgiana is exposed. Also Darcy and Elizabeth must come to recognize their true regard for each other. This story contains new characters as well as new villains. The behavior of some of the characters is immoral, although nothing is explicit in the writing.
Darcy and Elizabeth must uncover the reasons for the venom directed at Elizabeth and Georgiana before time runs out and Georgiana is exposed. Also Darcy and Elizabeth must come to recognize their true regard for each other. This story contains new characters as well as new villains. The behavior of some of the characters is immoral, although nothing is explicit in the writing.
March 6, 2025
A Good Read
The beginning was decent but fairly average. However, it became much more interesting once the Fulfords were introduced, along with all the drama unfolding in London.
The Fitzwilliam family is quite something. Elizabeth should have escaped when she had the chance! 😄 I would love to read a short story about how things turned out with Cecilia, Thorpe, and if Lady Matlock's views changed.
The beginning was decent but fairly average. However, it became much more interesting once the Fulfords were introduced, along with all the drama unfolding in London.
The Fitzwilliam family is quite something. Elizabeth should have escaped when she had the chance! 😄 I would love to read a short story about how things turned out with Cecilia, Thorpe, and if Lady Matlock's views changed.
March 13, 2025
It was okay. I expected something more based on the all the glowing reviews. I don’t understand why Darcy and Elizabeth didn’t suspect a certain character much earlier, especially after the way he treated Elizabeth.
After his capture, the villain refused to reveal his motives, so the mystery was resolved in a very unsatisfying way.
I liked Cecilia in the story. 2.5-stars rounded up. Read through KU.
After his capture, the villain refused to reveal his motives, so the mystery was resolved in a very unsatisfying way.
I liked Cecilia in the story. 2.5-stars rounded up. Read through KU.
September 15, 2025
5 stars for the story
4 stars for the narration
I wish Darcy would have been vunerable enough to admit he wated to marry Elizabeth. Her journey to love would have been much easier. My favorite part of the story was watching them solve the mystery together. I enjoyed that there was a mystery along with the romance. The culprit was pretty obvious but there was more to just that. The cousin's death was sad and the awful characters were indeed awful! But I enjoyed the story anyway.
4 stars for the narration
I wish Darcy would have been vunerable enough to admit he wated to marry Elizabeth. Her journey to love would have been much easier. My favorite part of the story was watching them solve the mystery together. I enjoyed that there was a mystery along with the romance. The culprit was pretty obvious but there was more to just that. The cousin's death was sad and the awful characters were indeed awful! But I enjoyed the story anyway.
May 10, 2025
Good writing, likeable characters. Its just not a fun reading, when
December 1, 2025
Delightful
This book handled the forced engagement scenario very well. The romance had just the right pacing and was clean. I enjoyed how the author incorporated a mystery as well, it blended well with the romance and didn't overpower it. And the romance was sweet and satisfying with a good epilogue. No email required. Happy reading
This book handled the forced engagement scenario very well. The romance had just the right pacing and was clean. I enjoyed how the author incorporated a mystery as well, it blended well with the romance and didn't overpower it. And the romance was sweet and satisfying with a good epilogue. No email required. Happy reading
March 2, 2025
Good storyline. I liked the author's take on Darcy and Elizabeth. I liked how the author made them so real. I liked how the author wrote the scenes so full of information and action.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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