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Desperately Seeking Mr. Darcy
She just wanted a Mr. Darcy… not her best friend’s brother in breeches.
"Didn't see that coming" could be my life's motto. I mean, I certainly didn't foresee my roommate stealing my boyfriend—an unfortunate turn of events that led to me moving in with my best friend and her infuriatingly attractive brother. Oh, and speaking of the brother? I might have once confessed my love for him, only to be met with soul-crushing, dignity-shattering unrequited feelings. Fun times, indeed.
But in this series of unexpected disasters, one surprise actually worked in my winning a trip to Pride and Prejudice Park, where I get to play my literary hero, Elizabeth Bennet. Sounds like a dream, right?
Well, even that plan goes off the rails. The trip takes such a wild turn that Zane—my best friend’s brother—ends up tagging along and playing Mr. Darcy. And here’s the biggest shock of suddenly, all this pretending starts to feel incredibly real. Could Zane actually be the Mr. Darcy I’ve been searching for my entire life? Or will my Pride and Prejudice dreams remain just that—a dream?
USA Today best-selling author Becky Monson delivers a witty and romantic escape, where unrequited love, Regency roleplay, and one very unexpected Mr. Darcy collide.
"Didn't see that coming" could be my life's motto. I mean, I certainly didn't foresee my roommate stealing my boyfriend—an unfortunate turn of events that led to me moving in with my best friend and her infuriatingly attractive brother. Oh, and speaking of the brother? I might have once confessed my love for him, only to be met with soul-crushing, dignity-shattering unrequited feelings. Fun times, indeed.
But in this series of unexpected disasters, one surprise actually worked in my winning a trip to Pride and Prejudice Park, where I get to play my literary hero, Elizabeth Bennet. Sounds like a dream, right?
Well, even that plan goes off the rails. The trip takes such a wild turn that Zane—my best friend’s brother—ends up tagging along and playing Mr. Darcy. And here’s the biggest shock of suddenly, all this pretending starts to feel incredibly real. Could Zane actually be the Mr. Darcy I’ve been searching for my entire life? Or will my Pride and Prejudice dreams remain just that—a dream?
USA Today best-selling author Becky Monson delivers a witty and romantic escape, where unrequited love, Regency roleplay, and one very unexpected Mr. Darcy collide.
Audible Audio
Published July 22, 2025
297 people are currently reading
654 people want to read
About the author
Becky Monson
22 books1,303 followersBy day, Becky Monson is a mother to three young children, and a wife. By night, she escapes with reading books and writing. In her debut novel, Becky uses humor and true-life experiences to bring her characters to life. She loves all things chick-lit (movies, books, etc.), and wishes she had a British accent. She has recently given up Diet Coke for the fiftieth time and is hopeful this time will last... but it probably won't.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
February 20, 2025
Oh! My! Heart!!!!!! I was all smiles and giggles and all the feels while reading this one!!! I absolutely adored these characters soooo much! This book is a companion book to Jennifer Peel's book, Without Pride and Prejudice, and they both just flowed so smoothly with how they connected. Read them both! In any order! Trust me!!! They're both wonderful! I just can't stop gushing about them. I really just finished reading this one an hour ago before writing my review and I'm still grinning over it. All the heart eyes and All of the stars for these two books!!!
Macey is the sweetest! She has had some struggles in her life, poor girl. But she's strong and keeps going. The emails to her mom...not gonna lie, I got a little teary eyed over some of them. I love how that all played out!
Amelia is the sweetest best friend! I loved watching her and Macey interact and how they just get each other. And I loved their love of Pride & Prejudice! I'd crash their movie watching party any day!
And Zane...oh Zane!!!!! He's just the best! I don't want to spoil anything. Just know that you're going to fall head over heels for him just like Macey has. He'll have you laughing, swooning and cheering for him and Macey's relationship to work. The letters. Be Still My Heart!!!! *Sigh* The letters are the chef's kiss between these two. Okay, maybe the kisses are one up than the chef's kiss because they're yummy! But the letters will have you heart melting.
I loved the theme of family throughout the book. It was so heartwarming.
And can I just say, that ending!!! Wowsers! It was PERFECTION!!! No, I'm not gushing just to gush, I seriously feel this way about this book. I just want to hide away and read this one and the companion one again. They are definitely up there in my favorites list! Some of my favorite Pride and Prejudice retellings!!!
Stop reading my review and just do yourself a favor and go read these books pronto!!!
Content: Clean. Some kisses, one a little bit more passionate but nothing more than a kiss. The characters have to share a hotel room for a night but nothing happens. A mild bible swear a couple of times.
I received a copy from the author but have also purchased my own copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Macey is the sweetest! She has had some struggles in her life, poor girl. But she's strong and keeps going. The emails to her mom...not gonna lie, I got a little teary eyed over some of them. I love how that all played out!
Amelia is the sweetest best friend! I loved watching her and Macey interact and how they just get each other. And I loved their love of Pride & Prejudice! I'd crash their movie watching party any day!
And Zane...oh Zane!!!!! He's just the best! I don't want to spoil anything. Just know that you're going to fall head over heels for him just like Macey has. He'll have you laughing, swooning and cheering for him and Macey's relationship to work. The letters. Be Still My Heart!!!! *Sigh* The letters are the chef's kiss between these two. Okay, maybe the kisses are one up than the chef's kiss because they're yummy! But the letters will have you heart melting.
I loved the theme of family throughout the book. It was so heartwarming.
And can I just say, that ending!!! Wowsers! It was PERFECTION!!! No, I'm not gushing just to gush, I seriously feel this way about this book. I just want to hide away and read this one and the companion one again. They are definitely up there in my favorites list! Some of my favorite Pride and Prejudice retellings!!!
Stop reading my review and just do yourself a favor and go read these books pronto!!!
Content: Clean. Some kisses, one a little bit more passionate but nothing more than a kiss. The characters have to share a hotel room for a night but nothing happens. A mild bible swear a couple of times.
I received a copy from the author but have also purchased my own copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
July 28, 2025
What a fun book! Elizabeth Bennett and her best friend have loved Pride and Prejudice for years, and watch it together weekly. Elizabeth is overjoyed when she wins a trip to Pride and Prejudice Park, where contestants reenact scenes from the movie, complete with costumes.
She’s completely flustered when her friend’s brother Zane ends up coming along. Elizabeth is scheduled to play Elizabeth Bennett ( 😂 ), and Zane will play Mr. Darcy. When they were younger the three played together and were close friends, but as they got older they drifted apart some. Then teenaged Elizabeth confesses her crush/feelings in a letter to Zane… they never talk about it, just continue with an awkward relationship.
Their time at P & P Park is so fun to read or listen to. There’s a wide variety of characters, but we focus on these two. When playing characters who struggle to communicate but ultimately fall in love… the pretending starts to feel real. A nice light-hearted, fun and sweet romance was just what I needed!
She’s completely flustered when her friend’s brother Zane ends up coming along. Elizabeth is scheduled to play Elizabeth Bennett ( 😂 ), and Zane will play Mr. Darcy. When they were younger the three played together and were close friends, but as they got older they drifted apart some. Then teenaged Elizabeth confesses her crush/feelings in a letter to Zane… they never talk about it, just continue with an awkward relationship.
Their time at P & P Park is so fun to read or listen to. There’s a wide variety of characters, but we focus on these two. When playing characters who struggle to communicate but ultimately fall in love… the pretending starts to feel real. A nice light-hearted, fun and sweet romance was just what I needed!
February 21, 2025
“Let me be a cautionary tale; Never fall for your best friend’s brother.”
Be still my ever swooning heart! Becky Monson strikes again with a deliciously sweet, hilarious, romantic longing, and chemistry-laden story set in…get this…a Jane Austen novel. I just finished Jennifer Peel’s WITHOUT PRIDE AND PREJUDICE and this book is a companion story about another couple who goes to the Pride and Prejudice Park to live out the story in real time.
Macey’s life has been full of bad luck and when she wins a trip to live out her dreams, she’s sure her luck will turn around. But then she’s left without a Mr. Darcy last minute. At the very last second possible, her best friend’s brother, Zane, steps in and this whirlwind of a story left me eagerly turning the pages to get their points-of-view of this experience.
Through a series of letters and emails, amazing t-shirts, stolen moments and going through all the things together while each at a crossroads in life, Zane and Macey stamped themselves solidly on my heart. As always, Monson creates a beautiful story of humor, hope, and love and it was so satisfying to watch each character decide what they actually want and to stand up for themselves and fight for it.
I was completely swept off my feet in this delightful reading escape.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
Be still my ever swooning heart! Becky Monson strikes again with a deliciously sweet, hilarious, romantic longing, and chemistry-laden story set in…get this…a Jane Austen novel. I just finished Jennifer Peel’s WITHOUT PRIDE AND PREJUDICE and this book is a companion story about another couple who goes to the Pride and Prejudice Park to live out the story in real time.
Macey’s life has been full of bad luck and when she wins a trip to live out her dreams, she’s sure her luck will turn around. But then she’s left without a Mr. Darcy last minute. At the very last second possible, her best friend’s brother, Zane, steps in and this whirlwind of a story left me eagerly turning the pages to get their points-of-view of this experience.
Through a series of letters and emails, amazing t-shirts, stolen moments and going through all the things together while each at a crossroads in life, Zane and Macey stamped themselves solidly on my heart. As always, Monson creates a beautiful story of humor, hope, and love and it was so satisfying to watch each character decide what they actually want and to stand up for themselves and fight for it.
I was completely swept off my feet in this delightful reading escape.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
February 24, 2025
5-star magic from Becky Monson
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
@bmonsonauthor has just released the incredible Desperately Seeking Mr. Darcy.
Review... 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The author has created a magical experience for both the leading lady, Macey & the reader, on this twist on reenacting P&P. I'm a big fan of the author and so I was hugely excited when she announced she would be writing a book based on a P&P super fan who would be travelling to the UK to 'become' Elizabeth Bennet. There's lots of wit and comedy in this book as well as swoony romance perfection and a leading man that is 🔥🔥🔥
It would be so easy to get lost in too much Austen, but Becky Monson strikes the perfect balance so you feel immersed in Zane & Macey's experience at the park but that their own characters shine through. It's no easy feat, and she's done it beautifully. I truly loved this from start to finish. I particularly liked the pacing of it all, and the story unfolds organically to give us such an endearing love story 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
@bmonsonauthor has just released the incredible Desperately Seeking Mr. Darcy.
Review... 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The author has created a magical experience for both the leading lady, Macey & the reader, on this twist on reenacting P&P. I'm a big fan of the author and so I was hugely excited when she announced she would be writing a book based on a P&P super fan who would be travelling to the UK to 'become' Elizabeth Bennet. There's lots of wit and comedy in this book as well as swoony romance perfection and a leading man that is 🔥🔥🔥
It would be so easy to get lost in too much Austen, but Becky Monson strikes the perfect balance so you feel immersed in Zane & Macey's experience at the park but that their own characters shine through. It's no easy feat, and she's done it beautifully. I truly loved this from start to finish. I particularly liked the pacing of it all, and the story unfolds organically to give us such an endearing love story 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
March 8, 2025
Super cute. It's even better if you're a Pride and Prejudice fan.
February 22, 2025
Channeling Elizabeth Bennett
Macey Bennett has always loved all things Pride and Prejudice! When she wins a trip to Pride and Prejudice Park she is ecstatic. It’s been a rough year and she needed something to go right, but her Mr. Darcy cancels on her at the last minute and her best friend’s brother steps into the role despite her mild protests and their awkward history.
I loved the whole experience at Pride and Prejudice Park, the domineering Lady Catherine, bonding with Monroe, secret rendezvous with Zane, and all of the P&P references. My favorite part was watching Macey develop as a character. I loved seeing her find her inner Elizabeth Bennett and realize that it was okay to stand up for herself. Zane was a gem. I loved seeing him realize what had been in front of him all along. And the letters! Macey and Zane wrote some heartfelt, and some hilarious letters!
Macey Bennett has always loved all things Pride and Prejudice! When she wins a trip to Pride and Prejudice Park she is ecstatic. It’s been a rough year and she needed something to go right, but her Mr. Darcy cancels on her at the last minute and her best friend’s brother steps into the role despite her mild protests and their awkward history.
I loved the whole experience at Pride and Prejudice Park, the domineering Lady Catherine, bonding with Monroe, secret rendezvous with Zane, and all of the P&P references. My favorite part was watching Macey develop as a character. I loved seeing her find her inner Elizabeth Bennett and realize that it was okay to stand up for herself. Zane was a gem. I loved seeing him realize what had been in front of him all along. And the letters! Macey and Zane wrote some heartfelt, and some hilarious letters!
March 18, 2025
All the things...
Becky Monson does it again! Her cast of characters, her wit, her humor, her love of all all things Mr. Darcy ooze through this delicious book!!!
Becky Monson does it again! Her cast of characters, her wit, her humor, her love of all all things Mr. Darcy ooze through this delicious book!!!
March 12, 2025
What an adorable story! It’s sweet and funny, with a swoony romance and lots of great Pride and Prejudice references.
Macey has experienced one disaster after another, then she finally gets a break: winning a trip to Pride and Prejudice Park, where she’ll get to play her literary hero, Elizabeth Bennet.
When her friend that was going to accompany her on the trip to play Mr. Darcy cancels on her, the trip takes an unpredictable turn. Zane, her best friend’s brother and the guy she had a major crush on years ago, ends up going with her to play Mr. Darcy.
There’s a lot of pretending and re-enactments going on, but it’s not long before it starts to feel very real.
What I loved—
💕 Best friend’s brother
💕 Dual POV
💕 Opposites attract
💕 Flirting and banter
💕 Letters to each other
💕 Secret meetings & kisses
💕 Great ending
Macey and Zane are so cute together! They were close as teenagers, but things got awkward when Macey wrote him a letter confessing her love for him, and he didn’t respond. Seeing them reconnect ten years later and fall in love was really sweet.
In addition to the fun and romance, I really liked Macey’s growth. She is a people pleaser and has taken a backseat in her own life, and I loved how she found strength and inspiration from Elizabeth Bennet, and began acting differently and speaking up for herself.
Overall, this is a fun, entertaining, and delightful romcom!
This is a companion novel to Without Pride and Prejudice by Jennifer Peel, but can be read as a standalone.
Macey has experienced one disaster after another, then she finally gets a break: winning a trip to Pride and Prejudice Park, where she’ll get to play her literary hero, Elizabeth Bennet.
When her friend that was going to accompany her on the trip to play Mr. Darcy cancels on her, the trip takes an unpredictable turn. Zane, her best friend’s brother and the guy she had a major crush on years ago, ends up going with her to play Mr. Darcy.
There’s a lot of pretending and re-enactments going on, but it’s not long before it starts to feel very real.
What I loved—
💕 Best friend’s brother
💕 Dual POV
💕 Opposites attract
💕 Flirting and banter
💕 Letters to each other
💕 Secret meetings & kisses
💕 Great ending
Macey and Zane are so cute together! They were close as teenagers, but things got awkward when Macey wrote him a letter confessing her love for him, and he didn’t respond. Seeing them reconnect ten years later and fall in love was really sweet.
In addition to the fun and romance, I really liked Macey’s growth. She is a people pleaser and has taken a backseat in her own life, and I loved how she found strength and inspiration from Elizabeth Bennet, and began acting differently and speaking up for herself.
Overall, this is a fun, entertaining, and delightful romcom!
This is a companion novel to Without Pride and Prejudice by Jennifer Peel, but can be read as a standalone.
February 22, 2025
Sigh…Such a Fun Romance for Austen Fans!
As a major fan of Pride and Prejudice (and all of Austen’s works) I highly approve of this book. (Saying this, I feel a bit like those kids from Reading Rainbow who would share about a book in little clips on the show.)
I like how we see growth in both the male and female main characters of this book. Both have challenges to overcome, and they help each other see their way through (while also seeing their way to each other.)
Definitely 5 stars for this one. I really want to go to Pride and Prejudice Park now, even if I have to deal with Lady Catherine. If a visit to this fictional park isn’t in the cards for you either, just read Desperately Seeking Mr. Darcy for a taste of the fun!!
As a major fan of Pride and Prejudice (and all of Austen’s works) I highly approve of this book. (Saying this, I feel a bit like those kids from Reading Rainbow who would share about a book in little clips on the show.)
I like how we see growth in both the male and female main characters of this book. Both have challenges to overcome, and they help each other see their way through (while also seeing their way to each other.)
Definitely 5 stars for this one. I really want to go to Pride and Prejudice Park now, even if I have to deal with Lady Catherine. If a visit to this fictional park isn’t in the cards for you either, just read Desperately Seeking Mr. Darcy for a taste of the fun!!
February 20, 2025
“There’s been hugging, and flirting, and winking. I’m not sure what’s happening here, but I find that I like it a lot.”
Becky Monson is the queen of rom-com. I will take no other arguments.
I squealed with laughter from the very first page and kept laughing even as the tears began to fall, which I knew they inevitably would.
Desperately Seeking Mr. Darcy should count as no less than three full-length therapy sessions. It’s better than caffeine, better than chocolate— maybe better than unlimited chips and salsa.
Don’t fight it. Lay aside your baggage and let it happen.
Oh… and did I mention letters?
There. Are. Letters.
Just go. NOW. Get this book immediately.
Becky Monson is the queen of rom-com. I will take no other arguments.
I squealed with laughter from the very first page and kept laughing even as the tears began to fall, which I knew they inevitably would.
Desperately Seeking Mr. Darcy should count as no less than three full-length therapy sessions. It’s better than caffeine, better than chocolate— maybe better than unlimited chips and salsa.
Don’t fight it. Lay aside your baggage and let it happen.
Oh… and did I mention letters?
There. Are. Letters.
Just go. NOW. Get this book immediately.
February 20, 2025
This book was fantastic! From the dedication to the very last words, Desperately Seeking Mr Darcy will keep you engaged. Good luck putting the book down!
August 30, 2025
3.5-4⭐️. The beginning was more self-discovery and less romance. Not terrible, just took a bit for the romance to come around. But it ended sweetly, and the bonus scenes are worth it!
May 9, 2025
So fun! Loved all of the references to the book and movie.
March 16, 2025
Adorable
I enjoyed this modern take on the current sentiments for our beloved pride and prejudice and our dear couple.
With some laugh out loud moments mixed with the poignant, this clean story is sweet and satisfying.
I enjoyed this modern take on the current sentiments for our beloved pride and prejudice and our dear couple.
With some laugh out loud moments mixed with the poignant, this clean story is sweet and satisfying.
August 3, 2025
After reading Pride and Prejudice and some of the other versions it inspired, I stumbled upon this novel adaptation, and I absolutely loved it.
The story opens with a young Macey writing a love note to her male best friend, Zane. Ten years later, we find Macey's life far from swoon-worthy, and she is still searching for her Mr. Darcy.
Her boyfriend, Caleb, cheats on her with her roommate and breaks up with her, telling her to move out of her own apartment. To add insult to injury, he says she's a horrible kisser, using it as his excuse for hooking up with the roommate.
Humiliated and unable to afford a new place on short notice, Macey moves in with her best friend, Amelia, where Amelia's brother, Zane, also happens to reside.
At her job as an assistant at Horizons Art Center, Macey develops an idea for a teen program and pitches it to her boss, Christina Choi. Christina loves the idea but gives the program to Verity to run instead of Macey. Verity however, wants to change the program completely and tells Macey to rework it as Macey’s leaving for vacation.
Another factor in Macey's depression is her mother. She's in yet another rehab facility, but her stays are always short-lived, and she quickly returns to drinking. Her mother wasn't always this way; she fell apart after Macey's father walked out on them. As they exchange messages, Macey remembers the many times her mother forgot about her, and she found solace and love with Amelia and Zane's family, who took her in as one of their own.
Finally, after years of feeling defeated, Macey wins two tickets to an exclusive trip to Pride & Prejudice Park. As part of the prize, she wins the coveted role of playing Elizabeth, and her friend will be Mr. Darcy. A week of playing her favorite character in her favorite book is exactly what she needs.
Unfortunately, just days before the trip, her friend Derrick bails, leaving Macey without a Mr. Darcy. Hurt and disappointed, Amelia and Mrs. Porter suggest that Zane go with her, much to Zane’s chagrin. After seeing her cry at the airport, he changes his flight and decides to fill in as her Mr. Darcy, despite Macey's numerous protests.
I loved watching Macey's slow transformation from a pitiful character into a stronger version of herself. She doesn't become a "bad@$$, hear me roar" type, but instead channels Elizabeth Bennet: speaking her true feelings instead of trying to please others and feeling miserable afterward. She even finally discusses her ten-year-old letter with Zane.
She may not have all the answers, but she's found the beginnings of recapturing her sparkle and building her confidence back.
The story opens with a young Macey writing a love note to her male best friend, Zane. Ten years later, we find Macey's life far from swoon-worthy, and she is still searching for her Mr. Darcy.
Her boyfriend, Caleb, cheats on her with her roommate and breaks up with her, telling her to move out of her own apartment. To add insult to injury, he says she's a horrible kisser, using it as his excuse for hooking up with the roommate.
Humiliated and unable to afford a new place on short notice, Macey moves in with her best friend, Amelia, where Amelia's brother, Zane, also happens to reside.
At her job as an assistant at Horizons Art Center, Macey develops an idea for a teen program and pitches it to her boss, Christina Choi. Christina loves the idea but gives the program to Verity to run instead of Macey. Verity however, wants to change the program completely and tells Macey to rework it as Macey’s leaving for vacation.
Another factor in Macey's depression is her mother. She's in yet another rehab facility, but her stays are always short-lived, and she quickly returns to drinking. Her mother wasn't always this way; she fell apart after Macey's father walked out on them. As they exchange messages, Macey remembers the many times her mother forgot about her, and she found solace and love with Amelia and Zane's family, who took her in as one of their own.
Finally, after years of feeling defeated, Macey wins two tickets to an exclusive trip to Pride & Prejudice Park. As part of the prize, she wins the coveted role of playing Elizabeth, and her friend will be Mr. Darcy. A week of playing her favorite character in her favorite book is exactly what she needs.
Unfortunately, just days before the trip, her friend Derrick bails, leaving Macey without a Mr. Darcy. Hurt and disappointed, Amelia and Mrs. Porter suggest that Zane go with her, much to Zane’s chagrin. After seeing her cry at the airport, he changes his flight and decides to fill in as her Mr. Darcy, despite Macey's numerous protests.
I loved watching Macey's slow transformation from a pitiful character into a stronger version of herself. She doesn't become a "bad@$$, hear me roar" type, but instead channels Elizabeth Bennet: speaking her true feelings instead of trying to please others and feeling miserable afterward. She even finally discusses her ten-year-old letter with Zane.
She may not have all the answers, but she's found the beginnings of recapturing her sparkle and building her confidence back.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2025
Corsets and cravats oh my!
Macey and Zane hit me in all the right places. All the heart eyes for them!!
Macey is a people pleaser. Constantly struggling and being walked on, she has lost her spark. Life has not been easy for her. She has to work for everything, and even then, things fall apart. She needs a break, a win. Getting the chance to immerse herself in the world of Pride and Prejudice is just the thing.
“Being here this week, I've started to feel like a version of myself I haven't been in so long that I almost forgot she existed. Maybe I'm channeling Lizzy, or maybe it's all this time with Zane.”
Zane is impulsive, acts first, and thinks later. When he discovers his sister’s best friend Macey crying at the airport, he decides to change his plans in favor of donning breeches and a cravat.
Macey and Zane have the perfect balance. He sees that she’s not who she once was. She hides herself and he helps her rediscover who she is and Macey helps Zane realize he needs some responsibility and accountability.
“I think not owning up to my impulsive decisions is what was holding me back, and I have Macey to thank for pointing that out.”
I love that they’ve known each other since they were teenagers. There’s a trust that comes from knowing each other’s struggles.
Things I loved:
🌸Best friend’s brother
🌸Childhood crush
🌸Love letter
🌸Flirtatious Zane
🌸Secret meetings
🌸So much Jane Austen
A sweet and fun journey of self-discovery and love. So many smiles and happy sighs.
Thank you to Becky Monson for the copy. All opinions are my own.
Macey and Zane hit me in all the right places. All the heart eyes for them!!
Macey is a people pleaser. Constantly struggling and being walked on, she has lost her spark. Life has not been easy for her. She has to work for everything, and even then, things fall apart. She needs a break, a win. Getting the chance to immerse herself in the world of Pride and Prejudice is just the thing.
“Being here this week, I've started to feel like a version of myself I haven't been in so long that I almost forgot she existed. Maybe I'm channeling Lizzy, or maybe it's all this time with Zane.”
Zane is impulsive, acts first, and thinks later. When he discovers his sister’s best friend Macey crying at the airport, he decides to change his plans in favor of donning breeches and a cravat.
Macey and Zane have the perfect balance. He sees that she’s not who she once was. She hides herself and he helps her rediscover who she is and Macey helps Zane realize he needs some responsibility and accountability.
“I think not owning up to my impulsive decisions is what was holding me back, and I have Macey to thank for pointing that out.”
I love that they’ve known each other since they were teenagers. There’s a trust that comes from knowing each other’s struggles.
Things I loved:
🌸Best friend’s brother
🌸Childhood crush
🌸Love letter
🌸Flirtatious Zane
🌸Secret meetings
🌸So much Jane Austen
A sweet and fun journey of self-discovery and love. So many smiles and happy sighs.
Thank you to Becky Monson for the copy. All opinions are my own.
March 11, 2025
A Pride and Prejudice reenactment plot? Sign me up!
This was a fun book! I really enjoyed Zane and Macey’s friendship and how it developed into more. I loved Maceys character growth and how playing Elizabeth gave her the courage to live her own life differently. I loved Zane’s notes to Macey. I love Zane’s impulsive decisions but also the self reflection on how that affected his life. Overall this book was great for both character growth and swoony moments!
Favorite Quotes:
I feel like, for Macey, the fear of the runaway horse has been overshadowed by Monroe’s fall. I’d think after that ordeal she’d be more shaken up, but she seems to be more concerned about what came after. I, on other hand, am not quite over it. I think that’s why I’ve still got my arm around her. I can’t seem to stop touching her, like if I don’t, she might slip away—as if I need the reassurance that she’s really here, safe and unhurt.
That’s twice in two days that I’ve turned down a proposal, playing Elizabeth. It strikes me how empowering it is to say exactly how you feel, without apology or hesitation. It’s kind of liberating. Because if this were me, I’d probably think I should turn him down, but when I went to open my mouth, I’d say “Sounds good.” Maybe I need to channel a bit more Lizzy Bennet in my life. Oh, that would make a good T-shirt.
This was a fun book! I really enjoyed Zane and Macey’s friendship and how it developed into more. I loved Maceys character growth and how playing Elizabeth gave her the courage to live her own life differently. I loved Zane’s notes to Macey. I love Zane’s impulsive decisions but also the self reflection on how that affected his life. Overall this book was great for both character growth and swoony moments!
Favorite Quotes:
I feel like, for Macey, the fear of the runaway horse has been overshadowed by Monroe’s fall. I’d think after that ordeal she’d be more shaken up, but she seems to be more concerned about what came after. I, on other hand, am not quite over it. I think that’s why I’ve still got my arm around her. I can’t seem to stop touching her, like if I don’t, she might slip away—as if I need the reassurance that she’s really here, safe and unhurt.
That’s twice in two days that I’ve turned down a proposal, playing Elizabeth. It strikes me how empowering it is to say exactly how you feel, without apology or hesitation. It’s kind of liberating. Because if this were me, I’d probably think I should turn him down, but when I went to open my mouth, I’d say “Sounds good.” Maybe I need to channel a bit more Lizzy Bennet in my life. Oh, that would make a good T-shirt.
February 21, 2025
Another great book from Becky Monson that is a fabulous read for fans of Pride and Prejudice! NO SPOILERS HERE but I couldn't put it down and read it one sitting.
Macey is a great protagonist who has faced some struggles in her life and has a difficult relationship with her addict mother. She written as someone who is very likeable and very relatable.
Amelia is the most amazing best friend anyone could want. I so want to join one of the pride and prejudice watch parties she and Macey have.
Zane, the best friend's older brother is an impulsive act first and think later. This character trait is how he ends up joining Macey on a trip to a Pride and Prejudice event.
You will absolutely love this book which is a companion to Jennifer Peel's Without Pride and Prejudice but you can also read as a standalone.
ENJOY!
Macey is a great protagonist who has faced some struggles in her life and has a difficult relationship with her addict mother. She written as someone who is very likeable and very relatable.
Amelia is the most amazing best friend anyone could want. I so want to join one of the pride and prejudice watch parties she and Macey have.
Zane, the best friend's older brother is an impulsive act first and think later. This character trait is how he ends up joining Macey on a trip to a Pride and Prejudice event.
You will absolutely love this book which is a companion to Jennifer Peel's Without Pride and Prejudice but you can also read as a standalone.
ENJOY!
February 26, 2025
Both this story and the prequel by Jennifer Peel allows readers a chance to immerse ourselves in Jane Austen’s world. These stories did NOT disappoint! It left me wanting to re watch every movie version and book myself a trip to Pride & Prejudice Park. I truly believe Jane Austen would approve of these stories. Well done ladies!
April 10, 2025
I loved this story.
Content: passionate kissing, a few mild swear words
Content: passionate kissing, a few mild swear words
May 4, 2025
4.5 ☺️
July 12, 2025
Needed something light after the last book I read.
July 17, 2025
It's about as good as you'd imagine it to be given its name and blurb.
August 8, 2025
Cutie little story!
October 4, 2025
Super cute read for all those that love Pride and Prejudice!
December 23, 2025
4.5 stars
The narrators for this audio book did a great job.
The narrators for this audio book did a great job.
March 28, 2025
totally swoon worthy
I loved this P&P adaptation. Becky Monson wrote a romance that just melted my heart. Zane is the perfect hero, and Macey is someone I would want to be close friends with. A sweet read that literally brought me to happy tears at the HEA. Lovely, lovely, lovely story. Highly recommend!
I loved this P&P adaptation. Becky Monson wrote a romance that just melted my heart. Zane is the perfect hero, and Macey is someone I would want to be close friends with. A sweet read that literally brought me to happy tears at the HEA. Lovely, lovely, lovely story. Highly recommend!
March 28, 2025
This book was so darn cute!! I loved Zane and Macey. Zane is her best friend’s brother, and she has loved him since she was a teen. But they grew apart after she gave him a love letter, that was never responded to. So when they end up at Pride and Prejudice Park together, she is not pleased. Things are awkward enough between them, and she just wants to enjoy her regency dreams without him 😂
But Zane is determined to do a good job for his friend, and he commits to the role. Watching their friendship resurface and turn into a swoony love story was SO good. I loved the Pride and Prejudice story role playing, and think I definitely need to visit one of these 😂🙌🏻 (though I don’t think hubby would be a fan lol).
This was a closed door book but didn’t lack in the romance dept. The kisses were 👌😘🫠 and definitely didn’t leave me feeling like I needed more. A must read for all P&P fans!!
Content warning: A couple minor swears.
But Zane is determined to do a good job for his friend, and he commits to the role. Watching their friendship resurface and turn into a swoony love story was SO good. I loved the Pride and Prejudice story role playing, and think I definitely need to visit one of these 😂🙌🏻 (though I don’t think hubby would be a fan lol).
This was a closed door book but didn’t lack in the romance dept. The kisses were 👌😘🫠 and definitely didn’t leave me feeling like I needed more. A must read for all P&P fans!!
Content warning: A couple minor swears.
February 23, 2025
Oh my swoony-loving heart!!! I read this book right after reading Jennifer Peel's Without Pride and Prejudice—they're companion books and it doesn't matter which one you choose to read first, but you definitely should read both of them!
Macey hasn't had the best of luck in life, work, or with boyfriends. She LOVES Pride and Prejudice and is so excited about going on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Pride and Prejudice Park, but she's a little nervous because she has to go alone since her friend Derek canceled on her. She's supposed to play the part of Elizabeth Bennet but now has no Mr. Darcy but she's pretty sure it will be okay once she gets to P&P Park. Enter Zane, her best friend's (Amelia) brother, who suddenly decides to go with her instead of on his planned vacation.
The initial dream of playing Elizabeth Bennet quickly unravels, which leads to a series of comedic mishaps and unexpected pairings. I loved the witty banter, and the undeniable tension as the forced proximity and pretend romance start to blur the lines between fiction and reality. I liked that both Macey and Zane had mixed emotions about what was happening instead of it being one-sided.
Macey is the sweetest, kindest person and some around her have taken advantage of that. I love how the opportunity to play Elizabeth Bennet helped her realize that and when she returned home she started taking back control of her life. "I realized something: I'm not living the life I want to live. I've been coasting, letting things happen to me instead of making them happen for myself. It's not the life I imagined, and I can't pretend I'm okay with it anymore." Yes! Girl, you deserve better!!
Zane is the swooniest!! Those letters! Need I say more? They're swoony, fun, and flirty and I highlighted so many of them. I loved watching Zane realize he had feelings for Macey and wanted her to know! Best of all, he wanted Macey as she was. He only wanted the best for her and for her to realize her worth. "I'm not trying to fix her. I'll take Macey exactly as she is; I'd just never let her wear herself out trying to please me. Because she doesn't need to." Things like that just melt me into a puddle.
If you love Pride and Prejudice, best-friend’s-brother romances, and a healthy dose of surprises, then Desperately Seeking Mr. Darcy is a must-read! This novel takes classic Austen elements and gives them a fresh, modern twist with humor, heart, and swoon-worthy chemistry.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
Macey hasn't had the best of luck in life, work, or with boyfriends. She LOVES Pride and Prejudice and is so excited about going on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Pride and Prejudice Park, but she's a little nervous because she has to go alone since her friend Derek canceled on her. She's supposed to play the part of Elizabeth Bennet but now has no Mr. Darcy but she's pretty sure it will be okay once she gets to P&P Park. Enter Zane, her best friend's (Amelia) brother, who suddenly decides to go with her instead of on his planned vacation.
The initial dream of playing Elizabeth Bennet quickly unravels, which leads to a series of comedic mishaps and unexpected pairings. I loved the witty banter, and the undeniable tension as the forced proximity and pretend romance start to blur the lines between fiction and reality. I liked that both Macey and Zane had mixed emotions about what was happening instead of it being one-sided.
Macey is the sweetest, kindest person and some around her have taken advantage of that. I love how the opportunity to play Elizabeth Bennet helped her realize that and when she returned home she started taking back control of her life. "I realized something: I'm not living the life I want to live. I've been coasting, letting things happen to me instead of making them happen for myself. It's not the life I imagined, and I can't pretend I'm okay with it anymore." Yes! Girl, you deserve better!!
Zane is the swooniest!! Those letters! Need I say more? They're swoony, fun, and flirty and I highlighted so many of them. I loved watching Zane realize he had feelings for Macey and wanted her to know! Best of all, he wanted Macey as she was. He only wanted the best for her and for her to realize her worth. "I'm not trying to fix her. I'll take Macey exactly as she is; I'd just never let her wear herself out trying to please me. Because she doesn't need to." Things like that just melt me into a puddle.
If you love Pride and Prejudice, best-friend’s-brother romances, and a healthy dose of surprises, then Desperately Seeking Mr. Darcy is a must-read! This novel takes classic Austen elements and gives them a fresh, modern twist with humor, heart, and swoon-worthy chemistry.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
February 26, 2025
Be still my Jane Austen loving heart!
Macey is finally going to get her Austenland-like experience at the Pride and Prejudice Park. The only downside is she has no one to go with her and be the Darcy to her Elizabeth. But there is a situation even worse than going alone...and that is her best friend's brother Zane tagging along. Everything has been awkward since she confessed her crush to him in a letter years ago and he never responded...
Zane's impulsive behavior may be responsible for landing him in an Austen cosplay experience with Macey but he can't come to regret it. He is surprisingly enjoying himself and all this time with Macey is making him realize just how perfect they are for each other...
What you'll love:
best friend's brother
Pride and Prejudice Park
dual pov
forced proximity
opposites attract
the letters
so much tension
banter and flirting
secret meetings
perfect ending!!
Oh, Becky has done it again! All the love for this adorably swoony romcom full of enough Pride and Prejudice references to satisfy even the most devoted Jane Austen fans!
Loved Macey and Zane together and how their opposite personalities balanced each other out so well! They haven't been close since they were teenagers, and watching them reconnect while falling in love was so incredibly sweet (that first kiss!!!!!!) And let's not forget about com part of the romcom - so.many.laughs during their hilarious experience at P&P park!! I also appreciated all of the character growth that came for both of them, especially Macey. Her journey was inspirational!
This is a companion novel to a story by Jennifer Peel, Without Pride & Prejudice, but can be read by as a standalone. (But honestly, I have read the other book and you are just going to want to pick both up, mkay?) Becky can honestly do no wrong in my eyes, and this book is another absolute favorite from her!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Macey is finally going to get her Austenland-like experience at the Pride and Prejudice Park. The only downside is she has no one to go with her and be the Darcy to her Elizabeth. But there is a situation even worse than going alone...and that is her best friend's brother Zane tagging along. Everything has been awkward since she confessed her crush to him in a letter years ago and he never responded...
Zane's impulsive behavior may be responsible for landing him in an Austen cosplay experience with Macey but he can't come to regret it. He is surprisingly enjoying himself and all this time with Macey is making him realize just how perfect they are for each other...
What you'll love:
best friend's brother
Pride and Prejudice Park
dual pov
forced proximity
opposites attract
the letters
so much tension
banter and flirting
secret meetings
perfect ending!!
Oh, Becky has done it again! All the love for this adorably swoony romcom full of enough Pride and Prejudice references to satisfy even the most devoted Jane Austen fans!
Loved Macey and Zane together and how their opposite personalities balanced each other out so well! They haven't been close since they were teenagers, and watching them reconnect while falling in love was so incredibly sweet (that first kiss!!!!!!) And let's not forget about com part of the romcom - so.many.laughs during their hilarious experience at P&P park!! I also appreciated all of the character growth that came for both of them, especially Macey. Her journey was inspirational!
This is a companion novel to a story by Jennifer Peel, Without Pride & Prejudice, but can be read by as a standalone. (But honestly, I have read the other book and you are just going to want to pick both up, mkay?) Becky can honestly do no wrong in my eyes, and this book is another absolute favorite from her!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
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