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Seasons of Serendipity #1
A Winter Wrong
When Jane Bennet’s illness at Netherfield ends up not being just a trifling cold, but an epidemic that sweeps through Hertfordshire, the lives at Longbourn are turned upside down. Elizabeth Bennet finds herself lost without a cherished loved one and the interferences of one Fitzwilliam Darcy most aggravating. Combating the bombastic behavior of Mr. Collins, Elizabeth runs to London for the protection of her aunt and uncle. But acquaintances and introductions bring Mr. Darcy back into her life and Elizabeth discovers he might just mend her broken heart. A sweetheart romantic novella, A Winter Wrong is the first in a series of seasonal episodes following the Bennet family after the loss of their patriarch. Winter explores the feelings of grief and loss we all have experienced, while still retaining a silver lining for that dark cloud.
177 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2014
88 people are currently reading
554 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Ann West
39 books142 followersA Jane-of-all-trades, mistress to none! Elizabeth Ann West is the author of 7 novels and 9 novellas, 15 of which are story variations of Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice. Her books have won reader conference awards and hit the Historical Bestseller lists on Amazon, Kobo, and the iBooks stores multiple times. A lover of all things geeky, Elizabeth codes websites, dabbles in graphic design, and is always looking for new technology to learn and master. A Navy wife and mother of two, her family has lived all over the United States, currently residing in upstate New York. Originally from Virginia Beach, Virginia, you can keep up with Elizabeth on Twitter @Eawwrites and on her website, http://elizabethannwest.com where she posts new fiction as she writes it!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
May 21, 2023
This author has proudly admitted to using AI technology to "write" her novels. Essentially, she is using computer algorithms to steal ideas from other writers in order to pump out work faster. There is no passion here, just a grasping for money.
This is the equivalent of a pyramid scheme...using other people's hard work for a quick and easy buck.
This is the equivalent of a pyramid scheme...using other people's hard work for a quick and easy buck.
May 8, 2015
This first-in-five stories (that I count) is free on Amazon so it was a no-brainer to want to add it to my kindle library. I read it a while ago but re-read it today so as to have it fresh in my mind in writing my review. It follows canon loosely for parts but then has its own twists (as do all variations). (Yes, she comes around to Winter Wonder for a fifth novel.)
As the book description tells us an epidemic befalls the community of Meryton. So when told of Jane's falling ill at Netherfield Elizabeth rushes to her side. But, subsequently she also falls ill and awakens from such to learn that their dear father has not only fallen ill but also succumbed to this illness. And to add to the distress of their mourning Mr. Bennet has not informed his family that his heir, Mr. Collins, is due for a visit. So upon his entrance into Longbourn Mr. Collins learns he has come into his inheritance.
Here I find an event written which is difficult to accept: Mr. Darcy offers to help Mr. Collins go over Mr. Bennet's books after the steward leaves due to Mr. Collins' behavior towards the man. Mr. B. has kept Elizabeth informed and consulted with her about the estate and his management of such but when the men find a large amount of money missing from the one season's accounts she is distraught as she cannot explain what her father did with such. To add to her discomfort and distress, Mr. Darcy suggests selling Mr. Bennet's book collection to put some monies back in the coffers.
And as the story goes, Mr. Collins ANNOUNCES during a breakfast (at which Mr. Darcy is present) that he has chosen Elizabeth as his bride and all H*** breaks loose. She declines, her sisters are horrified, Mr. Darcy is nonplussed and Mr. Collins tosses the family out...immediately. Mr. Gardiner shows up on the doorstep (delayed due to business) and subsequently the three oldest depart to live with their uncle in London. The others stay in Meryton with Mr. and Mrs. Philips.
The rest of the story has our couple, of course, encountering many misunderstandings. Col. Fitzwilliam and his parents show up, the Bingleys are present but not completely as in canon, Wickham is again after a young lady with an inheritance, and Lady Catherine is ever at her finest. (Love Darcy’s reaction to Mr. Collins at the latter’s intrusion with her parson.) The author does put a few twists to this story but for the primary couple we do have our HEA. However don’t forget that there are four other sisters and this book leaves more than one sister's happy ever after hanging in the air.
This was a short and pleasant read with very little angst or sexual chemistry. Recommended if you are not looking for a long and complicated read. But do know there are others in this series.
As the book description tells us an epidemic befalls the community of Meryton. So when told of Jane's falling ill at Netherfield Elizabeth rushes to her side. But, subsequently she also falls ill and awakens from such to learn that their dear father has not only fallen ill but also succumbed to this illness. And to add to the distress of their mourning Mr. Bennet has not informed his family that his heir, Mr. Collins, is due for a visit. So upon his entrance into Longbourn Mr. Collins learns he has come into his inheritance.
Here I find an event written which is difficult to accept: Mr. Darcy offers to help Mr. Collins go over Mr. Bennet's books after the steward leaves due to Mr. Collins' behavior towards the man. Mr. B. has kept Elizabeth informed and consulted with her about the estate and his management of such but when the men find a large amount of money missing from the one season's accounts she is distraught as she cannot explain what her father did with such. To add to her discomfort and distress, Mr. Darcy suggests selling Mr. Bennet's book collection to put some monies back in the coffers.
And as the story goes, Mr. Collins ANNOUNCES during a breakfast (at which Mr. Darcy is present) that he has chosen Elizabeth as his bride and all H*** breaks loose. She declines, her sisters are horrified, Mr. Darcy is nonplussed and Mr. Collins tosses the family out...immediately. Mr. Gardiner shows up on the doorstep (delayed due to business) and subsequently the three oldest depart to live with their uncle in London. The others stay in Meryton with Mr. and Mrs. Philips.
The rest of the story has our couple, of course, encountering many misunderstandings. Col. Fitzwilliam and his parents show up, the Bingleys are present but not completely as in canon, Wickham is again after a young lady with an inheritance, and Lady Catherine is ever at her finest. (Love Darcy’s reaction to Mr. Collins at the latter’s intrusion with her parson.) The author does put a few twists to this story but for the primary couple we do have our HEA. However don’t forget that there are four other sisters and this book leaves more than one sister's happy ever after hanging in the air.
This was a short and pleasant read with very little angst or sexual chemistry. Recommended if you are not looking for a long and complicated read. But do know there are others in this series.
August 2, 2017
This is a very entertaining and original P&P variation. It is one of a series.
People don't die from trifling colds, but they do die from a fever. While Jane and Lizzy are at Netherfield a fever sweeps Meryton and strikes down Mr. Bennet.
From Mr. Collins' arrival to Mr. Darcy's consulting on the Longbourn books everything is at sixes and sevens. Darcy manages to piss off Lizzy 8 ways to Sunday. This is a P & P wild ride that will keep you guessing.
People don't die from trifling colds, but they do die from a fever. While Jane and Lizzy are at Netherfield a fever sweeps Meryton and strikes down Mr. Bennet.
From Mr. Collins' arrival to Mr. Darcy's consulting on the Longbourn books everything is at sixes and sevens. Darcy manages to piss off Lizzy 8 ways to Sunday. This is a P & P wild ride that will keep you guessing.
May 10, 2015
Poor language choice and story pacing.
No. In this era they did not say "okay." The story is uneven and jumps from disdain to love in on paragraph. Sorry. No.
No. In this era they did not say "okay." The story is uneven and jumps from disdain to love in on paragraph. Sorry. No.
December 10, 2023
Decided to re-read the 6 Seasons of Serendipity novellas which are a Pride and Prejudice variation plus the accompanying two novellas
In this first volume an epidemic sweeps through Hertfordshire while Jane and Elizabeth are staying at Netherfield bringing unwanted consequences to the lives of the Bennet family.
Enjoyed reading a variation which is not totally about Elizabeth and Darcy, but includes all the Bennet daughters, and we still have Wickham, Caroline, and Lady Catherine.
So an enjoyable read and 5 stars, because this is the third read for this volume. Another re-read
In this first volume an epidemic sweeps through Hertfordshire while Jane and Elizabeth are staying at Netherfield bringing unwanted consequences to the lives of the Bennet family.
Enjoyed reading a variation which is not totally about Elizabeth and Darcy, but includes all the Bennet daughters, and we still have Wickham, Caroline, and Lady Catherine.
So an enjoyable read and 5 stars, because this is the third read for this volume. Another re-read
June 10, 2017
Sad, funny, witty, exciting, anguish, joy and determination of spirit
Our novella opens with Jane ill at Netherfield, and Elizabeth in residence taking care of her. Only this is no ordinary illness and as Jane recovers, Elizabeth succumbs herself. When she awakens two days later, she learns that her beloved father had also taken ill and has died from the same illness that swept through the county.
Things happen fairly quickly from this point on, Cousin Collins arrives [Mr. B had not advised his wife he was coming], only to find his cousin deceased; he is next to inherit due to the entailment, the widow and daughters grieving, and the household in chaos. He then takes matters into his own hands and moves into the master’s chambers. Collins is a pompous, arrogant, controlling, tight-fisted, cruel, evil, vindictive, sadistic; parsonic… there are not enough adjectives to describe Collins and his behaviors.
Uncle Gardiner arrives to find his sister and nieces practically servants in their own home as Collins let the servants go. They have been reduced to such a state as Collins having the girls make candles in order to be economic. Elizabeth’s refusal to his marriage declaration has his threatening her with a position of governess with the most disagreeable household he can find.
In P&P, Mr. Bennet lamented that he had not taken better care of his daughters. In this version, Uncle Gardner has a copy of a will declaring that each daughter has a dowry of five thousand pounds. Mr. B had been secretly sending money to his brother-in-law to be kept safe. It was so arranged as to not be part of the entailment so Mr. Collins could not get his hands on it. In his fury at reading the report, he declared that everyone had one hour to vacate Longbourn. Mrs. Bennet, Kitty and Lydia went to Meryton to live with Mrs. Philips, while Jane, Elizabeth and Mary went to London to live with the Gardiners.
There are a lot of highs and lows as Elizabeth works her way toward deciding if she loves Mr. Darcy or not. At times, I wondered if we were going to make it or not. Their road to happiness was strewn with the debris of misunderstandings, sabotaged attempts [Caroline and Lady C] and, of course, pride and prejudice. I enjoyed Georgiana, Lord and Lady Matlock, and of course our beloved Colonel. I liked his interactions with Mary. She was a surprise in this version. I hope to see her evolve more in the next novella.
This is a novella, and of course it is short. West chose a most excellent place to halt the story. It was not abrupt or unexpected. I thought it was a good place to break. The couple had solved their differences and was well on their way to facing the next chapter in their fight for the family honor. I will definitely look at the next novella to see what happens next.
There were minimal editing problems; the use of the words out of time ex: billfold…a more modern term of 1879 was a jolt…you usually hear purse when referring to money. The term fiancé refers to the male, and fiancée refers to the female in an engagement.
I enjoyed the story and having lost a parent can relate to the grief shown by Elizabeth at having lost the favorite man in her life.
Our novella opens with Jane ill at Netherfield, and Elizabeth in residence taking care of her. Only this is no ordinary illness and as Jane recovers, Elizabeth succumbs herself. When she awakens two days later, she learns that her beloved father had also taken ill and has died from the same illness that swept through the county.
Things happen fairly quickly from this point on, Cousin Collins arrives [Mr. B had not advised his wife he was coming], only to find his cousin deceased; he is next to inherit due to the entailment, the widow and daughters grieving, and the household in chaos. He then takes matters into his own hands and moves into the master’s chambers. Collins is a pompous, arrogant, controlling, tight-fisted, cruel, evil, vindictive, sadistic; parsonic… there are not enough adjectives to describe Collins and his behaviors.
Uncle Gardiner arrives to find his sister and nieces practically servants in their own home as Collins let the servants go. They have been reduced to such a state as Collins having the girls make candles in order to be economic. Elizabeth’s refusal to his marriage declaration has his threatening her with a position of governess with the most disagreeable household he can find.
In P&P, Mr. Bennet lamented that he had not taken better care of his daughters. In this version, Uncle Gardner has a copy of a will declaring that each daughter has a dowry of five thousand pounds. Mr. B had been secretly sending money to his brother-in-law to be kept safe. It was so arranged as to not be part of the entailment so Mr. Collins could not get his hands on it. In his fury at reading the report, he declared that everyone had one hour to vacate Longbourn. Mrs. Bennet, Kitty and Lydia went to Meryton to live with Mrs. Philips, while Jane, Elizabeth and Mary went to London to live with the Gardiners.
There are a lot of highs and lows as Elizabeth works her way toward deciding if she loves Mr. Darcy or not. At times, I wondered if we were going to make it or not. Their road to happiness was strewn with the debris of misunderstandings, sabotaged attempts [Caroline and Lady C] and, of course, pride and prejudice. I enjoyed Georgiana, Lord and Lady Matlock, and of course our beloved Colonel. I liked his interactions with Mary. She was a surprise in this version. I hope to see her evolve more in the next novella.
This is a novella, and of course it is short. West chose a most excellent place to halt the story. It was not abrupt or unexpected. I thought it was a good place to break. The couple had solved their differences and was well on their way to facing the next chapter in their fight for the family honor. I will definitely look at the next novella to see what happens next.
There were minimal editing problems; the use of the words out of time ex: billfold…a more modern term of 1879 was a jolt…you usually hear purse when referring to money. The term fiancé refers to the male, and fiancée refers to the female in an engagement.
I enjoyed the story and having lost a parent can relate to the grief shown by Elizabeth at having lost the favorite man in her life.
January 4, 2017
Jane Austen would be horrified.
Ugh. I should have known better than to try to read this, even with it being free. The spelling and punctuation are atrocious, even on page one (the horses' reins). While I appreciate fan fiction, I don't expect to pay money for it, especially if it's unedited and unrevised as this appears to be. For example: ("But that is neigh on three miles." By a horse's reckoning, I suppose). And yes, I realize this book is free, but it's a serial, and the following volumes are not free. By that logic, you'd think this first introductory book would at least have been edited. It's like a guy showing up for your first date without having showered after having been in the yard all day--it's not going to get any better.
The overall writing is horrible--boring, unimaginative sentences that lack Miss Austen's flair. You might like it, but I suggest reading the sample first. As for me, I won't be reading anything else by this author.
Ugh. I should have known better than to try to read this, even with it being free. The spelling and punctuation are atrocious, even on page one (the horses' reins). While I appreciate fan fiction, I don't expect to pay money for it, especially if it's unedited and unrevised as this appears to be. For example: ("But that is neigh on three miles." By a horse's reckoning, I suppose). And yes, I realize this book is free, but it's a serial, and the following volumes are not free. By that logic, you'd think this first introductory book would at least have been edited. It's like a guy showing up for your first date without having showered after having been in the yard all day--it's not going to get any better.
The overall writing is horrible--boring, unimaginative sentences that lack Miss Austen's flair. You might like it, but I suggest reading the sample first. As for me, I won't be reading anything else by this author.
August 27, 2015
Oh Mr Collins, I am gonna kick you in a very special place. Arghh, the nerve of that man!
Illness takes the life of many, including Mr Bennet. So you can see why I hate Mr Collins more than usual. An arrogant little idiot. *kicks him* She did well there, making me loathe him more than usual.
This all takes place when Jane falls ill at Netherfield, so lots of things change. I liked how Darcy and Lizzy came together. I liked what happened later on. I liked how Miss Bingley was cut, I giggled then.
But this was a novella. So it was short, and it's a series so there is actually no wedding a all. Lizzy and Darcy will fall in love, duh. But there are 3 more novellas, so that was kind of sad. I would have liked some conclusion to it all.
Illness takes the life of many, including Mr Bennet. So you can see why I hate Mr Collins more than usual. An arrogant little idiot. *kicks him* She did well there, making me loathe him more than usual.
This all takes place when Jane falls ill at Netherfield, so lots of things change. I liked how Darcy and Lizzy came together. I liked what happened later on. I liked how Miss Bingley was cut, I giggled then.
But this was a novella. So it was short, and it's a series so there is actually no wedding a all. Lizzy and Darcy will fall in love, duh. But there are 3 more novellas, so that was kind of sad. I would have liked some conclusion to it all.
July 7, 2015
Short and a little ridiculous, honestly. The death of a character who does not die in the original book, and how that magically solves some problems (deus ex machina-style) seemed really silly to me. Add to that the fact that it doesn't end (and instead leads you to purchase the "next in the series" to actually resolve the plotline)... meh. Don't bother. If it were extremely charmingly written, I'd recommend, but as is, no.
April 13, 2015
The first in a series of novellas re-imagining the events in Jane Austen's PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
Let me say from the outset that Jane Austen purists might not be thrilled with this one. It offers a unique variation on the classic novel: what if the Bennet girls' worst fear was realized and their father died. This is exactly what happens at the time of Jane's illness and stay at Netherfield Park. Mr. Collins indeed takes possession of Longbourne and much unhappiness ensues...but also some unexpected good fortune.
I think West gets a little obscure with some of her Regency-era idioms. And the switcheroo she pulls with Bingley--gives him more backbone early on and then cools his ardor markedly. Will he and Jane find their happily ever after? Eventually. Maybe. That's another thing I didn't realize when I downloaded the book--it isn't a standalone novella in a series of linked novellas. It's the first episode in a true serial. These days most writers make this explicit in the book description in the form of a clear disclaimer. It avoids misunderstanding and reader disappointment.
Despite the fact that I don't care for serials, the story (or the portion included here) is fun and well written. Lydia's worse than in the original. But Mary is much better, which is nice. I've always liked Mary. Mr. Darcy isn't quite as forbidding. Not sure how I feel about that, but I did enjoy getting to know West's version. The plot is intricate given the length and well paced. There's plenty of tension.
Overall, an intelligent and creative riff on an old favorite.
Let me say from the outset that Jane Austen purists might not be thrilled with this one. It offers a unique variation on the classic novel: what if the Bennet girls' worst fear was realized and their father died. This is exactly what happens at the time of Jane's illness and stay at Netherfield Park. Mr. Collins indeed takes possession of Longbourne and much unhappiness ensues...but also some unexpected good fortune.
I think West gets a little obscure with some of her Regency-era idioms. And the switcheroo she pulls with Bingley--gives him more backbone early on and then cools his ardor markedly. Will he and Jane find their happily ever after? Eventually. Maybe. That's another thing I didn't realize when I downloaded the book--it isn't a standalone novella in a series of linked novellas. It's the first episode in a true serial. These days most writers make this explicit in the book description in the form of a clear disclaimer. It avoids misunderstanding and reader disappointment.
Despite the fact that I don't care for serials, the story (or the portion included here) is fun and well written. Lydia's worse than in the original. But Mary is much better, which is nice. I've always liked Mary. Mr. Darcy isn't quite as forbidding. Not sure how I feel about that, but I did enjoy getting to know West's version. The plot is intricate given the length and well paced. There's plenty of tension.
Overall, an intelligent and creative riff on an old favorite.
September 24, 2014
What If Elizabeth's father had died when Elizabeth was nursing Jane to health in Netherfield? What would happen to them? How quickly would Mr Collins turn them out of their home? How would Elizabeth's final days in Heartforshire with Darcy play out? The novel focuses on this initially and then moves the scenes to London where Elizabeth forms a relationship with Georgiana and meets one of Darcy's aunts who really likes her. I loved the scenes in London and the emotional roller coaster that Elizabeth's endures with her fathers death, her feelings for Darcy and her relationship with Mary. A!though the novel ended with a declaration of love there are so many unanswered questions... What will happen to Lydia? Are Jane and Bingley ok? Will Wickham be tracked down? There must be a part 2 coming out and I can't wait to read it!
March 30, 2015
The story picks up from when Elizabeth visits Jane who is ill at Netherfield but finds out Jane isn't just down with the cold but contracts something more serious. I expected the epidemic to play a larger role but it only set the conditions for an unexpected death. The story started off uniquely but somewhat became predictable towards the middle and end. I was just waiting for what I knew from P&P to play out and there weren't many surprises. The author did a good job capturing the atmosphere of Austen's writing. Mr Darcy's thoughts were a lot more on display and it made his less misunderstood. This was both good and bad at the same time. Good in that I can happily pine for Lizzie and Darcy who obviously share mutual feelings but bad in that it made him less standoffish and guarded, which is what he's all about, no?
October 1, 2014
I couldn't believe it was over! I wanted it to continue! As I realized that the story had ended, I realized that it was a good ending, just earlie than I had wanted. I was privileged to read the last draft before final edit, and I have to say this should be a very smooth read, as there were only a few minor errors, that took nothing away from the story. I believe that a reader would have no problem understanding most of the conversations without having read Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, but would definitely have more of a chuckle or character understanding by knowing what the comments referenced.
This was a very entertaining story, with a little heartache and tears thrown in for good measure!
This was a very entertaining story, with a little heartache and tears thrown in for good measure!
September 26, 2021
This JAFF novella starts with a tragedy as Jane's illness turns out to be an epidemic and Mr. Collins inherits Longbourn before long. He is even greasier and more unpleasant as the heir. Mr. Bingley acts weirdly. Elizabeth, Jane and Mary go to live with the Gardiners and a chance meeting with Miss Bingley gets them introduced with Miss Darcy. Friendliness ensues and Elizabeth gets thrown in the path of Mr. Darcy. Lady Catherine causes a scene. Elizabeth's emotions regarding Mr. Darcy are all over the place.
This is a quick easy read that continues in several other novellas. If I had a quibble it would be that at times they don't seem that concerned with mourning Mr. Bennet.
This is a quick easy read that continues in several other novellas. If I had a quibble it would be that at times they don't seem that concerned with mourning Mr. Bennet.
February 12, 2015
I've long been a fan of Jane Austen, and Pride and Prejudice in particular, and thoroughly enjoy many of the alternate retellings of P&P. A Winter Wrong presents a variation on the story of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy that I had not seen before. It added a new layer of depth to their burgeoning relationship, and highlighted the burdens felt by an elder sister and daughter. Definitely a good and quick read!
September 21, 2014
This was a quick read, but a fun variation on P&P. When Mr. Bennet dies, the Bennet women have to live at Longbourn with Mr. Collins until they uncle arrives from London to tell them they aren't destitute after all. It is a series, and I see book two is out. Good.
August 3, 2015
Oh no, there are three more!
April 25, 2016
The only reason this got two stars rather than one, is because I managed to finish it. Just.
Nope. Changed my mind; it's just getting one.
Nope. Changed my mind; it's just getting one.
May 27, 2016
Gave up, too cheesy
Read
March 29, 2019Was expecting more
I've read quality stories from this author, so I was disappointed that this one is just okay. Being a novella, there is focus on one storyline and not much attention to all the other side plots. Darcy and Elizabeth 's evolution from hostility to betrothal is the main focus, made more interesting by the untimely death of Mr. Bennett just as the oily Mr. Collins is arriving at Longbourn for a visit.
It is a sweet tale with an unexpected meeting taking place between Elizabeth and Georgiana that acts as the catalyst for a more rapid change in feeling. The story falls victim to the short story syndrome, however, when the Bennett sisters are given the acquaintance and the immediate approval of Lady Matlock. Her declaration to Darcy about Elizabeth 's suitability for him, after only one short meeting with Elizabeth, seems forced and rushed. There just aren't enough pages to engage in the usual gradual changes of opinion.
It's still an okay story, but not a stand alone book. You must continue on with the series to find out what happens next after ODC are engaged.
I've read quality stories from this author, so I was disappointed that this one is just okay. Being a novella, there is focus on one storyline and not much attention to all the other side plots. Darcy and Elizabeth 's evolution from hostility to betrothal is the main focus, made more interesting by the untimely death of Mr. Bennett just as the oily Mr. Collins is arriving at Longbourn for a visit.
It is a sweet tale with an unexpected meeting taking place between Elizabeth and Georgiana that acts as the catalyst for a more rapid change in feeling. The story falls victim to the short story syndrome, however, when the Bennett sisters are given the acquaintance and the immediate approval of Lady Matlock. Her declaration to Darcy about Elizabeth 's suitability for him, after only one short meeting with Elizabeth, seems forced and rushed. There just aren't enough pages to engage in the usual gradual changes of opinion.
It's still an okay story, but not a stand alone book. You must continue on with the series to find out what happens next after ODC are engaged.
July 13, 2015
This alternative to Pride and Prejudice was interesting. It takes the same characters but alters the story. I disliked the beginning, but as it developed, I enjoyed the result. However, based on the length of this story and the subsequent ones, I am disinclined to continue based on the cost factor.
July 12, 2015
I really liked this one. While it never loses the relationship component between Elizabeth and Darcy, the way it enhances and expands the relationship between Lizzy and her father made it even more wonderful. Missing one's dad is accurately portrayed, and it was a fun twist to the story.
July 16, 2015
Interesting twist on Jane Austen's most famous story, Pride and Prejudice. A new twist finds more that just Jane catching cold, and scandal encompasses the Bennett's as a new buy familiar story unfolds. I really liked it overall. This is number 1 of 5, and free on Amazon right now.
Lady L.
Lady L.
June 16, 2015
This is one of the better Pride and Predjudice inspired stories,
July 13, 2015
I enjoyed this look at beloved characters if things had been different, but wish that author had made it in just one, longer book.
July 14, 2015
I love 'Pride and Prejudice' what if novels. Mr. Darcy was my first love and continues to be in this novella.
February 6, 2017
Added to Wintry January reading challenge at Travel the World in Books #TTWIB goodreads group.
July 28, 2014
Austen fan fiction. This writer does it so well. if your a fan of Austen, you will like this book
September 10, 2024
I have read all 8 of the Seasons of Serendipity books by Elizabeth Ann West (yes, there are 8, though the last two are technically Seasons of Serendipity Bride books) and have rated all of them 3 stars. I honestly didn’t want to read all of them after I finished the first two, they were not impressive. But since all the books are very short I decided to continue. Instead of writing a review recapping each individual book I decided to write one review for all of them as the problems I had span all the books. There are spoilers so be warned. One last note; I strive to right very honest reviews, keeping in mind that I am critiquing the work of a fellow human being. I try not to be mean or nasty or unnecessarily unkind. I do not believe that just because no one knows who I am, it gives me the freedom or the right, to be awful and venomous. With that in mind, here we go:
The stories are good but not great. I refer to the overall stories, not the way they’re written. One of the things that I didn’t understand was how the author scatters the Bennet sisters all over the place, some are in London, another at Pemberly, another at Matlock, another at Meryton, another in Scotland. They’re supposed to be in mourning and they are truly devastated by their father’s death. But they’re so quick to split up at the drop of a hat. So in the end, with the exception of the first part of the first book, the sisters are not all together in one place until years later at the end of the last book. I like the P&P variations that have a cozy, home and hearth feeling. If you’re like me you won’t like these books, they’re just constantly traveling at an alarming rate. No sooner do two sisters reach their destination then one of them is feeling uncomfortable and hopping back in a carriage with all their belongings to visit someone or just to get away. It’s crazy. Then there are things like Mary and Jane have a huge fight and they’re giving each other evil stares and Jane keeps giving Mary the cold shoulder; not characteristic of these two characters at all. And very childish. Here’s another one, Elizabeth wants to make sure all the servants in her employ know how to read. Now, that’s not at all alarming and it’s not even unheard of for the period. There were many peers of the realm who uncharacteristically went against the norm and were very kind to their servants. But she takes over Mrs. Reynold’s personal office, much to the housekeeper’s chagrin, in order to set up a school for all the servants. Where they will learn reading, writing and math. In several shifts, of course, since they can’t neglect their duties. With further plans to teach the children of the village and then sends Jane, who’s living in the Darcy estate in Scotland, a letter asking her to do the same in that estate. Lydia is not only her usual self-absorbed self, she goes far beyond what any normal person would put up with. I wonder if Elizabeth West possibly meant for this character to have some sort of mental disability. Or possibly a syndrome like Asperger. The character is so beyond the self-absorption Lydia from the original that it boggles the mind. She shows up at the Darcy townhome in London pregnant and unmarried with her mother in tow. She walks in without a care in the world talking about her dear Wickham and asking to go to the theatre and wanting to know when the next ball is. Her mother acts the same way despite everyone else in the family looking on them astonished. At no point do either Lydia or her mother ever get called to the mat. At no point do either of them show any shame or realization of what a dangerous situation Lydia is in. It’s not just odd, it’s alarming.
Next is how choppy and disconnected the writing is. Scenes and descriptions of rooms and goings-on are not fleshed out; they’re disjointed and confusing. I had to go back and read full paragraphs only to find that I didn’t read them correctly, it wasn’t my misreading something, it was the writing.
The elder matrons are always portrayed as meddlesome and troublemakers. In the case of the Dowager Lady Hamilton and Mrs. Bennet the portrayal makes sense though it’s very over the top (the Dowager actually reads Mary Bennet’s letters while Mary is sick and then makes no excuses about it! Instead of having to apologize the author portrays her as a dowdy, impulsive elder woman who we’re supposed to find just adorable and incorrigible). But in Lady Matlock’s case Darcy and Elizabeth are just downright rude to her. All the girls are split up, Darcy and Elizabeth are off to Pemberly to live in wedded bliss and Mary, Georgiana and Kitty are left to their own devices in London! So Lady Matlock takes them under her wing, takes them shopping, buys them new wardrobes and starts giving them daily classes on dancing and etiquette and a whole bunch of other lessons in anticipation of their first season the following year. Well Elizabeth and Darcy arrive in town and are completely incensed that Lady Matlock has taken it on herself to educate the girls and even more, Elizabeth can’t believe that all Lady Matlock has educated them in is etiquette and dancing! She states that she expects them to learn more than just place settings, that they should know about the world. Not even realizing that it was her and Darcy’s neglect that caused Lady Matlock to step in. Oh, and previously Jane was assaulted at a house party that Lady Matlock had taken her to by a horrible man. So Elizabeth and Darcy lay that at Lady Matlock’s feet as well. They are so rude to her and in the end it’s Lady Matlock who has to apologize to Elizabeth. There are bizarre story choices like that throughout all the books.
Finally there are the many, many spelling and grammatical errors. Captain Tompkins is first introduced as Captain Toompkins. I wasn’t sure if it was a mistake until a few paragraphs after where his name is spelled correctly. And the grammatical errors are worse. “His” used when it should be “her”, “off” used instead of “of”, and the like. Then, at one point Mary is speaking with the Dowager Duchess Hamilton and TWICE, instead of saying “Your Grace” to the Dowager, she says “My Grace” Twice in two paragraphs! One type of grammatical error that I try to excuse is when authors write “He was the person she wanted to speak to”, which is incorrect but so many do it that it’s become the norm. The more grammatically correct way is to write, “He was the person to whom she wanted to speak”. Ending the sentence with the word “to” is poor writing, especially in a period book. But in one of the books I actually read, “He was the person to whom she wanted to speak to”. Another error that, surprisingly, many authors make and few editors or proof readers notice, is when they make the grammatical error of saying, for example, “She was the one that…” when it should be “She was the one who…” I understand writing fast when you’re on a roll and missing it. But several people read books before they’re ever published. Even many self-published books are read and re-read (though not all) before they publish. There were too many of these types of mistakes in Elizabeth West’s books to excuse. Particularly since they’re supposed to be so popular and everyone supposedly loves her books. I find it hard to believe that books that are this popular have not been properly proof read or edited.
In the end I get increasingly tired of excusing lazy writing. Elizabeth Ann West has been called a Jane-of-all-trades, mistress of none. And while the original quote (made by William Shakespeare, supposedly) ends with “…but often times better than a master of one”, I’m afraid to say that this saying, as far as Elizabeth Ann West is concerned, is not a compliment. It’s possible that she needs to spend more time on the trade of writing of her books…
The stories are good but not great. I refer to the overall stories, not the way they’re written. One of the things that I didn’t understand was how the author scatters the Bennet sisters all over the place, some are in London, another at Pemberly, another at Matlock, another at Meryton, another in Scotland. They’re supposed to be in mourning and they are truly devastated by their father’s death. But they’re so quick to split up at the drop of a hat. So in the end, with the exception of the first part of the first book, the sisters are not all together in one place until years later at the end of the last book. I like the P&P variations that have a cozy, home and hearth feeling. If you’re like me you won’t like these books, they’re just constantly traveling at an alarming rate. No sooner do two sisters reach their destination then one of them is feeling uncomfortable and hopping back in a carriage with all their belongings to visit someone or just to get away. It’s crazy. Then there are things like Mary and Jane have a huge fight and they’re giving each other evil stares and Jane keeps giving Mary the cold shoulder; not characteristic of these two characters at all. And very childish. Here’s another one, Elizabeth wants to make sure all the servants in her employ know how to read. Now, that’s not at all alarming and it’s not even unheard of for the period. There were many peers of the realm who uncharacteristically went against the norm and were very kind to their servants. But she takes over Mrs. Reynold’s personal office, much to the housekeeper’s chagrin, in order to set up a school for all the servants. Where they will learn reading, writing and math. In several shifts, of course, since they can’t neglect their duties. With further plans to teach the children of the village and then sends Jane, who’s living in the Darcy estate in Scotland, a letter asking her to do the same in that estate. Lydia is not only her usual self-absorbed self, she goes far beyond what any normal person would put up with. I wonder if Elizabeth West possibly meant for this character to have some sort of mental disability. Or possibly a syndrome like Asperger. The character is so beyond the self-absorption Lydia from the original that it boggles the mind. She shows up at the Darcy townhome in London pregnant and unmarried with her mother in tow. She walks in without a care in the world talking about her dear Wickham and asking to go to the theatre and wanting to know when the next ball is. Her mother acts the same way despite everyone else in the family looking on them astonished. At no point do either Lydia or her mother ever get called to the mat. At no point do either of them show any shame or realization of what a dangerous situation Lydia is in. It’s not just odd, it’s alarming.
Next is how choppy and disconnected the writing is. Scenes and descriptions of rooms and goings-on are not fleshed out; they’re disjointed and confusing. I had to go back and read full paragraphs only to find that I didn’t read them correctly, it wasn’t my misreading something, it was the writing.
The elder matrons are always portrayed as meddlesome and troublemakers. In the case of the Dowager Lady Hamilton and Mrs. Bennet the portrayal makes sense though it’s very over the top (the Dowager actually reads Mary Bennet’s letters while Mary is sick and then makes no excuses about it! Instead of having to apologize the author portrays her as a dowdy, impulsive elder woman who we’re supposed to find just adorable and incorrigible). But in Lady Matlock’s case Darcy and Elizabeth are just downright rude to her. All the girls are split up, Darcy and Elizabeth are off to Pemberly to live in wedded bliss and Mary, Georgiana and Kitty are left to their own devices in London! So Lady Matlock takes them under her wing, takes them shopping, buys them new wardrobes and starts giving them daily classes on dancing and etiquette and a whole bunch of other lessons in anticipation of their first season the following year. Well Elizabeth and Darcy arrive in town and are completely incensed that Lady Matlock has taken it on herself to educate the girls and even more, Elizabeth can’t believe that all Lady Matlock has educated them in is etiquette and dancing! She states that she expects them to learn more than just place settings, that they should know about the world. Not even realizing that it was her and Darcy’s neglect that caused Lady Matlock to step in. Oh, and previously Jane was assaulted at a house party that Lady Matlock had taken her to by a horrible man. So Elizabeth and Darcy lay that at Lady Matlock’s feet as well. They are so rude to her and in the end it’s Lady Matlock who has to apologize to Elizabeth. There are bizarre story choices like that throughout all the books.
Finally there are the many, many spelling and grammatical errors. Captain Tompkins is first introduced as Captain Toompkins. I wasn’t sure if it was a mistake until a few paragraphs after where his name is spelled correctly. And the grammatical errors are worse. “His” used when it should be “her”, “off” used instead of “of”, and the like. Then, at one point Mary is speaking with the Dowager Duchess Hamilton and TWICE, instead of saying “Your Grace” to the Dowager, she says “My Grace” Twice in two paragraphs! One type of grammatical error that I try to excuse is when authors write “He was the person she wanted to speak to”, which is incorrect but so many do it that it’s become the norm. The more grammatically correct way is to write, “He was the person to whom she wanted to speak”. Ending the sentence with the word “to” is poor writing, especially in a period book. But in one of the books I actually read, “He was the person to whom she wanted to speak to”. Another error that, surprisingly, many authors make and few editors or proof readers notice, is when they make the grammatical error of saying, for example, “She was the one that…” when it should be “She was the one who…” I understand writing fast when you’re on a roll and missing it. But several people read books before they’re ever published. Even many self-published books are read and re-read (though not all) before they publish. There were too many of these types of mistakes in Elizabeth West’s books to excuse. Particularly since they’re supposed to be so popular and everyone supposedly loves her books. I find it hard to believe that books that are this popular have not been properly proof read or edited.
In the end I get increasingly tired of excusing lazy writing. Elizabeth Ann West has been called a Jane-of-all-trades, mistress of none. And while the original quote (made by William Shakespeare, supposedly) ends with “…but often times better than a master of one”, I’m afraid to say that this saying, as far as Elizabeth Ann West is concerned, is not a compliment. It’s possible that she needs to spend more time on the trade of writing of her books…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2020
Connections with other people are an important part of life and there are occasions when acquaintances continue to show up in your life unexpectedly, as in A Winter Wrong by Elizabeth Ann West.
To read this, and other book reviews, visit my website: http://makinggoodstories.wordpress.com/.
Jane Bennet has fallen ill and remained at Netherfield to recuperate, requiring the attention of her sister Elizabeth. Jane's illness proves to be more than a simple cold when Elizabeth also falls ill to it, as well as many others across Hertfordshire. When the Bennet family suddenly finds themselves without a beloved member as a result of this illness, their lives are upended. Elizabeth is bereft from the loss and Mr. Darcy's interference in her life continues, much to her irritation. Even when Jane and Elizabeth escape their home to shelter with their uncle in London they find themselves in Darcy's company yet again. With all the troubles the Bennets face his continued presence might just turn their opinions of one another.
Arriving into the beloved, classic story after Jane is ill and recovering at Netherfield, the novella begins to develop swiftly and move the narrative parallel to the original as it presents different events that drive toward the same outcome. The general atmosphere of Austen's work was relatively well retained but some of the language felt anachronistic to the time period and the emotions that were conveyed were frequently yo-yoing between highs and lows, creating a disjointed feeling. Plenty of misunderstandings, communication issues, and intentional sabotage comprise the bulk of the story, making it feel familiar while it modifies key events and interactions to create something a little bit new.
To read this, and other book reviews, visit my website: http://makinggoodstories.wordpress.com/.
Jane Bennet has fallen ill and remained at Netherfield to recuperate, requiring the attention of her sister Elizabeth. Jane's illness proves to be more than a simple cold when Elizabeth also falls ill to it, as well as many others across Hertfordshire. When the Bennet family suddenly finds themselves without a beloved member as a result of this illness, their lives are upended. Elizabeth is bereft from the loss and Mr. Darcy's interference in her life continues, much to her irritation. Even when Jane and Elizabeth escape their home to shelter with their uncle in London they find themselves in Darcy's company yet again. With all the troubles the Bennets face his continued presence might just turn their opinions of one another.
Arriving into the beloved, classic story after Jane is ill and recovering at Netherfield, the novella begins to develop swiftly and move the narrative parallel to the original as it presents different events that drive toward the same outcome. The general atmosphere of Austen's work was relatively well retained but some of the language felt anachronistic to the time period and the emotions that were conveyed were frequently yo-yoing between highs and lows, creating a disjointed feeling. Plenty of misunderstandings, communication issues, and intentional sabotage comprise the bulk of the story, making it feel familiar while it modifies key events and interactions to create something a little bit new.
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