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Once Upon a Compromise: A Pride & Prejudice Variation Novella
COMPROMISED... OR NOT?
Fitzwilliam Darcy has always prided himself on his impeccable propriety. So when he finds himself repeatedly trapped in compromising situations with the spirited Elizabeth Bennet, he braces himself for the a forced marriage to a woman from a family he deems beneath him.
Except... the demands never come.
With each new scandalous circumstance, Darcy finds himself increasingly bewildered—and increasingly captivated by the one woman in England whose family seems determined not to secure him as a son-in-law. As misunderstandings clear and truths emerge about Elizabeth and her family, Darcy makes a startling he wishes they would insist on a match.
Now the man who avoided being trapped must attempt something far more winning Elizabeth's heart on merit alone. But after initially dismissing her, can his awkward attempts at courtship convince her his feelings are genuine?
In this charming twist on Jane Austen’s beloved classic, Darcy must overcome his pride to win the heart of the one woman who won't be caught by anything less than true love.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has always prided himself on his impeccable propriety. So when he finds himself repeatedly trapped in compromising situations with the spirited Elizabeth Bennet, he braces himself for the a forced marriage to a woman from a family he deems beneath him.
Except... the demands never come.
With each new scandalous circumstance, Darcy finds himself increasingly bewildered—and increasingly captivated by the one woman in England whose family seems determined not to secure him as a son-in-law. As misunderstandings clear and truths emerge about Elizabeth and her family, Darcy makes a startling he wishes they would insist on a match.
Now the man who avoided being trapped must attempt something far more winning Elizabeth's heart on merit alone. But after initially dismissing her, can his awkward attempts at courtship convince her his feelings are genuine?
In this charming twist on Jane Austen’s beloved classic, Darcy must overcome his pride to win the heart of the one woman who won't be caught by anything less than true love.
184 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 30, 2025
184 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Joy
44 books209 followersWhen Jennifer isn’t busy dreaming up new adventures for her favorite characters, she is reading, baking, or chasing her twins around the park.
She believes in happy endings, sweet romance, and plenty of intrigue. She writes what she most enjoys reading, so expect lighthearted stories with happy endings and a few laughs.
Born on the beautiful Oregon coast, she traveled all around the world until she finally settled in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador with her husband and two kids.
She believes in happy endings, sweet romance, and plenty of intrigue. She writes what she most enjoys reading, so expect lighthearted stories with happy endings and a few laughs.
Born on the beautiful Oregon coast, she traveled all around the world until she finally settled in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador with her husband and two kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 7, 2025
A Delight to Read
Told from Darcy’s first-person POV, this light-hearted novella has him sharing multiple endearing and unintentional compromising situations with Elizabeth: a locked door at Netherfield, caught in the hedgerows, stranded during a storm…With each encounter, his admiration for her only deepens, and offers a chance to clarify past misunderstandings. But when he fully expects Mrs Bennet to demand a wedding, she does not. He knows he would not mind marrying her in the least. In fact, he would be delighted. What is a misjudged man to do? Why, change everyone’s first impressions of him, of course! Let the wooing begin!
Jennifer Joy has penned another little gem to add to her delightful collection of novellas—and my own library. Her stories never fail to leave me smiling and feeling glad for having spent the time. Readers are sure to fall in love with this wooing, kind-hearted, and swoon-worthy portrayal of Darcy.
Highly recommend.
June 6, 2025 - Audiobook
Harry Frost is perfect for the Darcy 1st-person-pov. He also provides his listeners with an especially memorable serenade that had me grinning from ear to ear.
Told from Darcy’s first-person POV, this light-hearted novella has him sharing multiple endearing and unintentional compromising situations with Elizabeth: a locked door at Netherfield, caught in the hedgerows, stranded during a storm…With each encounter, his admiration for her only deepens, and offers a chance to clarify past misunderstandings. But when he fully expects Mrs Bennet to demand a wedding, she does not. He knows he would not mind marrying her in the least. In fact, he would be delighted. What is a misjudged man to do? Why, change everyone’s first impressions of him, of course! Let the wooing begin!
Jennifer Joy has penned another little gem to add to her delightful collection of novellas—and my own library. Her stories never fail to leave me smiling and feeling glad for having spent the time. Readers are sure to fall in love with this wooing, kind-hearted, and swoon-worthy portrayal of Darcy.
Highly recommend.
June 6, 2025 - Audiobook
Harry Frost is perfect for the Darcy 1st-person-pov. He also provides his listeners with an especially memorable serenade that had me grinning from ear to ear.
May 26, 2025
Darcy is a romantic and so lovable!
I was among the lucky ones who got a copy in advance – thank you, Jennifer. During my first reading I was diverted by the fun and the cleverness of the book. The second time I enjoyed the development of the connection between Elizabeth and Darcy: from strong arguments to verbal exchanges, to open conversations to – 10 years of marriage in the epilogue.
Elizabeth is intelligent and has a quick and witty thinking and is also loyal and kind. But Darcy is really special – which mother wouldn’t like him to have as a son-in-law???? Or a good friend or, as an unmarried lady, as a husband? Read the story about the proud and highly compromised Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley and get to know him better!
I was among the lucky ones who got a copy in advance – thank you, Jennifer. During my first reading I was diverted by the fun and the cleverness of the book. The second time I enjoyed the development of the connection between Elizabeth and Darcy: from strong arguments to verbal exchanges, to open conversations to – 10 years of marriage in the epilogue.
Elizabeth is intelligent and has a quick and witty thinking and is also loyal and kind. But Darcy is really special – which mother wouldn’t like him to have as a son-in-law???? Or a good friend or, as an unmarried lady, as a husband? Read the story about the proud and highly compromised Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley and get to know him better!
June 9, 2025
Fun and wonderful
A first person POV, in Darcy's voice, the story begins at the Netherfield ball. Darcy is attracted to Elizabeth, but she dislikes him because of the infamous insult. At the ball, Darcy saves Lydia from ruin at the hands of Wickham. Searching for Mr Bennett to tell him about it, Darcy gets locked in Netherfield's library with Elizabeth. When Mrs Bennett discovers them shortly thereafter, Darcy is stunned when no compromise is claimed. When several more compromising incidents occur with no claims made, Darcy realizes that he needs to improve Elizabeth's opinion of him. Since women have always chased him, it's a new experience
him to have to expend effort to attract someone he admires. He wracks his brain for romantic ideas and gifts that will impress Elizabeth.
This is a sweet, amusing, and fun story with no angst. The romance is lovely. This is a swoon worthy Darcy, and an Elizabeth who, fortunately, is willing to change her mind, especially in the face of such care and devotion. The witty banter is superb. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly for a light, uplifting, and romantic tale.
P.S. I love the Mr Darcy on the cover!
A first person POV, in Darcy's voice, the story begins at the Netherfield ball. Darcy is attracted to Elizabeth, but she dislikes him because of the infamous insult. At the ball, Darcy saves Lydia from ruin at the hands of Wickham. Searching for Mr Bennett to tell him about it, Darcy gets locked in Netherfield's library with Elizabeth. When Mrs Bennett discovers them shortly thereafter, Darcy is stunned when no compromise is claimed. When several more compromising incidents occur with no claims made, Darcy realizes that he needs to improve Elizabeth's opinion of him. Since women have always chased him, it's a new experience
him to have to expend effort to attract someone he admires. He wracks his brain for romantic ideas and gifts that will impress Elizabeth.
This is a sweet, amusing, and fun story with no angst. The romance is lovely. This is a swoon worthy Darcy, and an Elizabeth who, fortunately, is willing to change her mind, especially in the face of such care and devotion. The witty banter is superb. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly for a light, uplifting, and romantic tale.
P.S. I love the Mr Darcy on the cover!
June 17, 2025
Darcy does not know what to think
4 1/2 stars rounded up
I first borrowed this book on KU and then bought the audiobook as soon as it became available. As always, Harry Frost makes books even better. His narrated books as well as Jennifer Joy’s books are an automatic read/purchase.
It was enjoyable to have a book from Darcy‘s point of view that he is repeatedly in compromising situations with Elizabeth and yet he is dumbstruck and floored when her parents don’t claim compromise to try and force a marriage. This behavior and attitude from her parents causes him to reevaluate his preconceived notions and prejudice.
I enjoyed when he started to court Elizabeth and ended up with Colonel F’s help bringing Mr. and Mrs. Bennet together to repair their own relationship.
This is a story that I will gladly read or again better yet listen to again.
4 1/2 stars rounded up
I first borrowed this book on KU and then bought the audiobook as soon as it became available. As always, Harry Frost makes books even better. His narrated books as well as Jennifer Joy’s books are an automatic read/purchase.
It was enjoyable to have a book from Darcy‘s point of view that he is repeatedly in compromising situations with Elizabeth and yet he is dumbstruck and floored when her parents don’t claim compromise to try and force a marriage. This behavior and attitude from her parents causes him to reevaluate his preconceived notions and prejudice.
I enjoyed when he started to court Elizabeth and ended up with Colonel F’s help bringing Mr. and Mrs. Bennet together to repair their own relationship.
This is a story that I will gladly read or again better yet listen to again.
June 1, 2025
Delightful!
I found this to be such an enjoyable read that I couldn't help but smile while going through it.
Darcy's point of view is always my favorite. His inner thoughts and compromising situations were hilarious, and I kinda, almost felt sorry for the poor guy.
A highlight was Darcy wooing Elizabeth in Longbourn's parlor before her family. I don't read that set-up often. Then again, I found Mrs. Bennet and Lydia are likable in this story.
I found this to be such an enjoyable read that I couldn't help but smile while going through it.
Darcy's point of view is always my favorite. His inner thoughts and compromising situations were hilarious, and I kinda, almost felt sorry for the poor guy.
A highlight was Darcy wooing Elizabeth in Longbourn's parlor before her family. I don't read that set-up often. Then again, I found Mrs. Bennet and Lydia are likable in this story.
May 24, 2025
I melted into a puddle! What a lovely, romantic, and original variation this is! Written from Darcy's POV, it allowed me a glimpse into his thoughts, and still, he surprised and enchanted me. I will surely read it over and over.
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 23, 2025
Fabulous Pride and Prejudice variation.
Told from Darcy's point of view and starting from the night of the ball at Netherfield.
We follow our hero as he seeks to set to rights his behaviour to Lizzy and win her heart. Will it be easy? No. Will it be straightforward? Also No. But will Lizzy be swayed ....
Darcy and Lizzy find themselves in a series of compromising situations that threaten to catapult them down the aisle but allow them to come to a new understanding of each other.
I would say this book is a sweet clean regency romance but be WARNED... ther is a mention of bare toes and *gasp* a shapely ankle, so have your fans at the ready.
This book was an absolute joy to read. Really enjoyed the vulnerability you get from seeing it play out from Darcys side.
A must read!!
Told from Darcy's point of view and starting from the night of the ball at Netherfield.
We follow our hero as he seeks to set to rights his behaviour to Lizzy and win her heart. Will it be easy? No. Will it be straightforward? Also No. But will Lizzy be swayed ....
Darcy and Lizzy find themselves in a series of compromising situations that threaten to catapult them down the aisle but allow them to come to a new understanding of each other.
I would say this book is a sweet clean regency romance but be WARNED... ther is a mention of bare toes and *gasp* a shapely ankle, so have your fans at the ready.
This book was an absolute joy to read. Really enjoyed the vulnerability you get from seeing it play out from Darcys side.
A must read!!
May 30, 2025
How many people are trapped in their everyday habits: part numb, part frightened, part indifferent? To have a better life, we must keep choosing how we are living. — Albert Einstein
Fitzwilliam Darcy, master of Pemberley, has learned to avoid matrimonial traps.
Quote from the book: Unmarried gentlemen who wish to remain single know better than to stand in the same place for too long.
Being such a man and bearing a target enlarged by my fortune, privilege, and societal connections, I had, by necessity, become accomplished at avoiding the usual snares, ploys, and ambushes to be found at a ball. Weaving around servants carrying trays, gossips whispering behind fans, and flowers sprouting from vases, I crossed Netherfield Park’s entrance hall without stopping. I noticed everyone without making eye contact with anyone.
Darcy’s thoughts display his caution. He is determined to avoid single females.
… most boys enjoy being trapped in close quarters with a girl. — Veronica Roth
How does it happen that he is repeatedly in close quarters with one Elizabeth Bennet? Even odder, why does the silly girl and her equally silly Mama hide the details of his compromises? It is as if Elizabeth doesn’t want to marry him!
Like other Jennifer Joy stories, this one is a chortle-fest from beginning to end.
Loved it!
You cannot look into someone’s soul
and not fall in love with them.
I looked into your soul once.
I am trapped for eternity. — Cynthia Go
Fitzwilliam Darcy, master of Pemberley, has learned to avoid matrimonial traps.
Quote from the book: Unmarried gentlemen who wish to remain single know better than to stand in the same place for too long.
Being such a man and bearing a target enlarged by my fortune, privilege, and societal connections, I had, by necessity, become accomplished at avoiding the usual snares, ploys, and ambushes to be found at a ball. Weaving around servants carrying trays, gossips whispering behind fans, and flowers sprouting from vases, I crossed Netherfield Park’s entrance hall without stopping. I noticed everyone without making eye contact with anyone.
Darcy’s thoughts display his caution. He is determined to avoid single females.
… most boys enjoy being trapped in close quarters with a girl. — Veronica Roth
How does it happen that he is repeatedly in close quarters with one Elizabeth Bennet? Even odder, why does the silly girl and her equally silly Mama hide the details of his compromises? It is as if Elizabeth doesn’t want to marry him!
Like other Jennifer Joy stories, this one is a chortle-fest from beginning to end.
Loved it!
You cannot look into someone’s soul
and not fall in love with them.
I looked into your soul once.
I am trapped for eternity. — Cynthia Go
May 23, 2025
Absolutely loved this story! The story is told from Fitzwilliam Darcy’s point of view. He learns that not everyone is mercenary and some women are worth the effort. The conversation with Mr Bennet had me crying in a good way.
June 2, 2025
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
This is just such a delight!
Fitzwilliam Darcy is wealthy, handsome and eligible. As such, many of the Ton have tried to trap him into marriage.
Following his less-than impressive behaviour in Meryton, he is viewed with disdain by the locals.
When a faulty door latch results in his being trapped in the Netherfield Park library, with Elizabeth Bennet, he braces himself for cries of "Compromise!"
He is rather stunned when the marriage obsessed Mrs Bennet, quietly extracts her daughter from the situation.
A series of unfortunate incidents, which ought to have resulted in a forced marriage, yield only polite thanks for his assistance.
Darcy discovers that if he truly wants Elizabeth Bennet for his wife, he is going to need to woo her.
This Darcy is adorable and his efforts to win Elizabeth will melt your heart ❤️
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
This is just such a delight!
Fitzwilliam Darcy is wealthy, handsome and eligible. As such, many of the Ton have tried to trap him into marriage.
Following his less-than impressive behaviour in Meryton, he is viewed with disdain by the locals.
When a faulty door latch results in his being trapped in the Netherfield Park library, with Elizabeth Bennet, he braces himself for cries of "Compromise!"
He is rather stunned when the marriage obsessed Mrs Bennet, quietly extracts her daughter from the situation.
A series of unfortunate incidents, which ought to have resulted in a forced marriage, yield only polite thanks for his assistance.
Darcy discovers that if he truly wants Elizabeth Bennet for his wife, he is going to need to woo her.
This Darcy is adorable and his efforts to win Elizabeth will melt your heart ❤️
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
June 16, 2025
Adorable
Absolutely adorable. I can't even. I loved Darcy's perspective & everything about the flowers was absolutely fabulous. This was a delightful angst free read.
Absolutely adorable. I can't even. I loved Darcy's perspective & everything about the flowers was absolutely fabulous. This was a delightful angst free read.
May 26, 2025
I adored Darcy and his sweet attempts to woo Elizabeth. Even when they didn't go as planned she couldn't help but love him. And the compromises were too funny. Darcy is so baffled by the Bennets and how they respond in these situations.
I loved it. Enjoyable read.
I loved it. Enjoyable read.
June 14, 2025
Every bit as enjoyable ands delightful
This is short yet wonderful variation filled with Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth, as every Pride and Prejudice variation ought to be.
Given the three circumstances that had presented themselves as possible compromises, Mr. Darcy expected the Bennet family to demand satisfaction in tying himself to Elizabeth Bennet, a lady which he initially spurned for being less than who he would have desired as marriage material. But every refusal by her family caused him to realize how much damage he had created and how much he truly yearned to be attached to the lady. It was only then that he resolved to better himself and improve the Bennet family of their opinion of him, in the hopes of changing Elizabeth’s initial disgust feelings of him into one of admiration, respect and eventually love. Mr. Darcy’s attempts are thoughtful and deliberate, and little did he know that he was already on the surest way to impress and possess the heart of the lady he wishes to spend the rest of his life with.
Highly recommended!
This is short yet wonderful variation filled with Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth, as every Pride and Prejudice variation ought to be.
Given the three circumstances that had presented themselves as possible compromises, Mr. Darcy expected the Bennet family to demand satisfaction in tying himself to Elizabeth Bennet, a lady which he initially spurned for being less than who he would have desired as marriage material. But every refusal by her family caused him to realize how much damage he had created and how much he truly yearned to be attached to the lady. It was only then that he resolved to better himself and improve the Bennet family of their opinion of him, in the hopes of changing Elizabeth’s initial disgust feelings of him into one of admiration, respect and eventually love. Mr. Darcy’s attempts are thoughtful and deliberate, and little did he know that he was already on the surest way to impress and possess the heart of the lady he wishes to spend the rest of his life with.
Highly recommended!
June 9, 2025
Such a merry dance
Jennifer Joy’s novel delivers what she promises. A merry story full of humour, romance and frustrated compromises, wherein Darcy would have been delighted to be caught. It is an extra fillip to hear the story in Darcy‘s own words. It is not long but it is a delight.
Jennifer Joy’s novel delivers what she promises. A merry story full of humour, romance and frustrated compromises, wherein Darcy would have been delighted to be caught. It is an extra fillip to hear the story in Darcy‘s own words. It is not long but it is a delight.
June 14, 2025
Laughed so hard I got tears in my eyes……
This is even more laughter inducing than the first book in the series. As each new compromise and failed wooing attempt failed, the appearance of my favorite Darcy actors was easily imagined. Darcy and Mrs. B were only slightly behind Persephone as the best and funniest characters in the story!
Highly recommended for anyone who needs a break from her daily life. Can’t wait for the next story in the series.
This is even more laughter inducing than the first book in the series. As each new compromise and failed wooing attempt failed, the appearance of my favorite Darcy actors was easily imagined. Darcy and Mrs. B were only slightly behind Persephone as the best and funniest characters in the story!
Highly recommended for anyone who needs a break from her daily life. Can’t wait for the next story in the series.
June 11, 2025
Mr. Darcy’s unexpected situation
Fitzwilliam Darcy speaking in the first person narrates his unusual situation. He tries to improve the bad impression he has made in Meryton and especially with Lizzy Bennet. He has three unplanned situations that could be compromises leading to a marriage with Lizzy. By the third he is ready to get married. However his reputation as an unfriendly snob leads even Mrs. Bennet to conclude that Lizzy’s honor is unassailed. Mr. Darcy could never be interested in her. Darcy has to begin an unacknowledged courtship and avoid Bingley and Col. Fitzwilliam’s laughter.
A fun quick read.
Fitzwilliam Darcy speaking in the first person narrates his unusual situation. He tries to improve the bad impression he has made in Meryton and especially with Lizzy Bennet. He has three unplanned situations that could be compromises leading to a marriage with Lizzy. By the third he is ready to get married. However his reputation as an unfriendly snob leads even Mrs. Bennet to conclude that Lizzy’s honor is unassailed. Mr. Darcy could never be interested in her. Darcy has to begin an unacknowledged courtship and avoid Bingley and Col. Fitzwilliam’s laughter.
A fun quick read.
June 16, 2025
New view
Nice to see a different view
Enjoyed the outcome
Mr Bennett getting help for younger girls!
Mr Wickman no lo get charming!
But it was a shame Liszt never got to try those candies,but getting her horse back might have been better
Nice to see a different view
Enjoyed the outcome
Mr Bennett getting help for younger girls!
Mr Wickman no lo get charming!
But it was a shame Liszt never got to try those candies,but getting her horse back might have been better
June 3, 2025
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is Book 2 in the A Merry March for Darcy series and each book is standalone and can be read in any order. In this charming twist on Jane Austen’s beloved classic, Darcy must overcome his pride to win the heart of the one woman who won't be caught by anything less than true love.
Compromised or not? Fitzwilliam Darcy has always prided himself on his impeccable propriety. So when he finds himself repeatedly trapped in compromising situations with the spirited Elizabeth Bennet, he braces himself for the inevitable, a forced marriage to a woman from a family he deems beneath him, except, the demands never come. With each new scandalous circumstance, Darcy finds himself increasingly bewildered, and increasingly captivated by the one woman in England whose family seems determined not to secure him as a son-in-law.
As misunderstandings clear and truths emerge about Elizabeth and her family, Darcy makes a startling discovery, he wishes they would insist on a match. Now the man who avoided being trapped must attempt something far more daunting, winning Elizabeth's heart on merit alone, but after initially dismissing her, can his awkward attempts at courtship convince her his feelings are genuine? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is Book 2 in the A Merry March for Darcy series and each book is standalone and can be read in any order. In this charming twist on Jane Austen’s beloved classic, Darcy must overcome his pride to win the heart of the one woman who won't be caught by anything less than true love.
Compromised or not? Fitzwilliam Darcy has always prided himself on his impeccable propriety. So when he finds himself repeatedly trapped in compromising situations with the spirited Elizabeth Bennet, he braces himself for the inevitable, a forced marriage to a woman from a family he deems beneath him, except, the demands never come. With each new scandalous circumstance, Darcy finds himself increasingly bewildered, and increasingly captivated by the one woman in England whose family seems determined not to secure him as a son-in-law.
As misunderstandings clear and truths emerge about Elizabeth and her family, Darcy makes a startling discovery, he wishes they would insist on a match. Now the man who avoided being trapped must attempt something far more daunting, winning Elizabeth's heart on merit alone, but after initially dismissing her, can his awkward attempts at courtship convince her his feelings are genuine? 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.
June 5, 2025
A real joy to read
I love that the story is narrated by Darcy himself and he is so witty, and funny. There are a few moments that I totally laughed out loud 😅. I especially enjoyed the attempts at bringing Elizabeth special gifts. The story of the third gift was the absolute best! A wonderful story.
I love that the story is narrated by Darcy himself and he is so witty, and funny. There are a few moments that I totally laughed out loud 😅. I especially enjoyed the attempts at bringing Elizabeth special gifts. The story of the third gift was the absolute best! A wonderful story.
June 4, 2025
Very merry
Lots of humor and witty repartee as Lizzy and Darcy repeatedly compromise themselves without the Bennets taking advantage, which allows Darcy time to change his opinions before departing Netherfield. Then he changes his behavior, which allows Lizzy to change her opinion of him, which makes a lovely happy ending!
Lots of humor and witty repartee as Lizzy and Darcy repeatedly compromise themselves without the Bennets taking advantage, which allows Darcy time to change his opinions before departing Netherfield. Then he changes his behavior, which allows Lizzy to change her opinion of him, which makes a lovely happy ending!
June 6, 2025
Wonderful novella!
I love reading all the variations of Elizabeth and Darcy that Jennifer Joy thinks up! She is amazing! Once Upon a Compromise didn’t disappoint. Of course the only improvement would be if it was an entire novel. :) I can’t wait to see what Darcy and Elizabeth get up to next time!
I love reading all the variations of Elizabeth and Darcy that Jennifer Joy thinks up! She is amazing! Once Upon a Compromise didn’t disappoint. Of course the only improvement would be if it was an entire novel. :) I can’t wait to see what Darcy and Elizabeth get up to next time!
May 31, 2025
Delizioso!
June 29, 2025
I laughed all through reading
The subtitle should be Mr Darcy's consternation. I thoroughly enjoyed this as I do all of Jennifer Joy's books. Mrs Bennet was great fun.
The subtitle should be Mr Darcy's consternation. I thoroughly enjoyed this as I do all of Jennifer Joy's books. Mrs Bennet was great fun.
June 2, 2025
Excellent as always
It's a sweet, clean, take on compromise P&P variations with a twist, no spread of scandal. I loved the light heartedness of the story and ODCs ever evolving relationship. In a world full of angst, it's a pleasure to read this.
It's a sweet, clean, take on compromise P&P variations with a twist, no spread of scandal. I loved the light heartedness of the story and ODCs ever evolving relationship. In a world full of angst, it's a pleasure to read this.
June 3, 2025
What short low angst pleasant enjoyable book. Loved it!
June 6, 2025
Excellent really nicely done.
June 20, 2025
Perfectly Wonderful
Darcy didn't think being compromised could be so unexpectedly enjoyable. No demands of marrying? Of course, he had behaved as a true gentleman, but he was so eligible! No demands? Not the first time, nor the more scandalous second? By the third time, he was HOPING to be required to marry Elizabeth.
So he decides to court her in a more conventional manner. If only he could get this right and not make a hash of it, he would have the woman who had stolen his heart without ever trying.
Darcy didn't think being compromised could be so unexpectedly enjoyable. No demands of marrying? Of course, he had behaved as a true gentleman, but he was so eligible! No demands? Not the first time, nor the more scandalous second? By the third time, he was HOPING to be required to marry Elizabeth.
So he decides to court her in a more conventional manner. If only he could get this right and not make a hash of it, he would have the woman who had stolen his heart without ever trying.
June 17, 2025
Once Upon a Compromise
Lovely variation demonstrating how to woo a maid. I was so happy to see Darcy show his kindness to everyone.
Lovely variation demonstrating how to woo a maid. I was so happy to see Darcy show his kindness to everyone.
May 21, 2025
Darcy’s pride gets his disagreeableness pummeled out of him.
Just like Dangerous When Wet, we get to listen to the thoughts running through his self-assured brain. Tsk, chuckle, and laugh out loud as Darcy learns he’s not the catch he thought he was. He is completely flummoxed when not even Mrs Bennet wants to be connected to the disagreeable man. Not even if he is as rich as Croesus.
Nothing is going right for Darcy. Or so he thinks. His trusty sidekicks, the Colonel and Bingley, help him salvage his carefully laid plans when they fall apart.
This sweet, clean, quick read will have you up late into the night reading. My suggestion is to start reading it earlier than 10:30 at night. Otherwise, you might need to force yourself to go to sleep with only 20% left to read.
Once Upon a Compromise is book two of the A Merry Match for Mr Darcy collection. I loved Dangerous When Wet, but I think Once Upon a Compromise tops that story. That’s no surprise since Jennifer Joy is one of my go-to authors. She hasn’t disappointed me yet. I love the cadence of her writing in these two books. Darcy’s internal dialogue reveals all his arrogant assumptions and human struggles —gasp! He’s not under as good of regulation as he thought. His dry wit shines, and his astonishment delights the reader when his expectations turn upside down, go sideways, and twist into knots.
Note: The author allowed me to read the ARC of the story. The above is my honest opinion.
Just like Dangerous When Wet, we get to listen to the thoughts running through his self-assured brain. Tsk, chuckle, and laugh out loud as Darcy learns he’s not the catch he thought he was. He is completely flummoxed when not even Mrs Bennet wants to be connected to the disagreeable man. Not even if he is as rich as Croesus.
Nothing is going right for Darcy. Or so he thinks. His trusty sidekicks, the Colonel and Bingley, help him salvage his carefully laid plans when they fall apart.
This sweet, clean, quick read will have you up late into the night reading. My suggestion is to start reading it earlier than 10:30 at night. Otherwise, you might need to force yourself to go to sleep with only 20% left to read.
Once Upon a Compromise is book two of the A Merry Match for Mr Darcy collection. I loved Dangerous When Wet, but I think Once Upon a Compromise tops that story. That’s no surprise since Jennifer Joy is one of my go-to authors. She hasn’t disappointed me yet. I love the cadence of her writing in these two books. Darcy’s internal dialogue reveals all his arrogant assumptions and human struggles —gasp! He’s not under as good of regulation as he thought. His dry wit shines, and his astonishment delights the reader when his expectations turn upside down, go sideways, and twist into knots.
Note: The author allowed me to read the ARC of the story. The above is my honest opinion.
August 11, 2025
Once Upon a Compromise is an absolute delight for any Pride and Prejudice fan looking for something light, funny, and irresistibly engaging. This short-and-sweet variation may not be lengthy, but it more than makes up for it with charm, wit, and an easy readability that keeps you turning the pages with a smile.
Told entirely from Darcy’s point of view, the story offers a refreshing spin on his character. While a touch out of character compared to Austen’s original, this Darcy is still recognizably himself—just a little less shy and a lot more willing to take initiative. The result is a hero who’s active, endearing, and more than capable of carrying the comedic tones of the narrative. The humor is sharp without being overdone, and the lightheartedness never undercuts the emotional beats.
The supporting characters also add to the fun, and the plot moves briskly without unnecessary detours, making it the kind of read you can easily enjoy in one sitting. If you’re looking for a variation that blends clever humor, engaging pacing, and a wonderfully self-assured Darcy, Once Upon a Compromise is well worth the read. I closed the book grinning—and I imagine most readers will too.
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