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The Cheapside Runners
Fitzwilliam Darcy owes a debt to the most unexpected of men—a tradesman from Cheapside who rescued his sister from certain ruin. When Mr. Gardiner of the "Cheapside Runners" intervenes to stop George Wickham's scheme, Darcy must confront his own prejudices and failings. His attempts to repay the debt lead to a humbling encounter that forces him to question everything he thought he knew about proper behavior and true gentility.
As Darcy resolves to improve himself, he encounters a puzzling young woman in Hertfordshire who, despite her apparent intelligence and charm, seems determined never to exchange a single word with him. Could there be a connection between this mysterious lady and the man from Cheapside who set him on his path to self-improvement?
A tale of unexpected connections, reluctant growth, and the challenge of becoming worthy of love.
As Darcy resolves to improve himself, he encounters a puzzling young woman in Hertfordshire who, despite her apparent intelligence and charm, seems determined never to exchange a single word with him. Could there be a connection between this mysterious lady and the man from Cheapside who set him on his path to self-improvement?
A tale of unexpected connections, reluctant growth, and the challenge of becoming worthy of love.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2025
220 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
May 28, 2025
Aside from a sometimes annoyingly perfect and brilliant Elizabeth Bennet as well as a few ticky-tacky misspelling/homonym errors, this is an excellent and highly unique story.
It's not Fitzwilliam Darcy who saves Georgiana from eloping with George Wickham here; it's a tradesman named Mr. Gardiner whose business, The Cheapside Runners, specializes in handling such delicate situations. In lieu of payment, Gardiner's only request is for Darcy to bring another gentleman and dine at his Cheapside residence with him, his wife, and their two nieces. Darcy doesn't feel he can decline. However, outside the Gardiners' front door, he expresses to Colonel Fitzwilliam that he anticipates the nieces will be typical fortune hunters, which is overheard inside through an open window. The dinner is immediately cancelled, and Darcy gets a stern reprimand from Mr. Gardiner, making him examine his haughty attitude for the first time.
After that, things move to familiar territory: the Meryton Assembly. Darcy makes a sincere effort to be more sociable. He even agrees when Bingley offers to introduce him to the sister of Miss Bennet, but when they turn to her for the introduction, she has disappeared. She continues to be elusive, and Darcy becomes increasingly intrigued by what he learns and observes about her from afar.
It's a solid enough beginning, but the book's true highlight is its central section, where several characters attend what can be best described as a Regency boot camp for women. Don't worry, though; the romance between Darcy and Elizabeth (they DO inevitably meet!) is woven into the story nicely.
Content is clean.
It's not Fitzwilliam Darcy who saves Georgiana from eloping with George Wickham here; it's a tradesman named Mr. Gardiner whose business, The Cheapside Runners, specializes in handling such delicate situations. In lieu of payment, Gardiner's only request is for Darcy to bring another gentleman and dine at his Cheapside residence with him, his wife, and their two nieces. Darcy doesn't feel he can decline. However, outside the Gardiners' front door, he expresses to Colonel Fitzwilliam that he anticipates the nieces will be typical fortune hunters, which is overheard inside through an open window. The dinner is immediately cancelled, and Darcy gets a stern reprimand from Mr. Gardiner, making him examine his haughty attitude for the first time.
After that, things move to familiar territory: the Meryton Assembly. Darcy makes a sincere effort to be more sociable. He even agrees when Bingley offers to introduce him to the sister of Miss Bennet, but when they turn to her for the introduction, she has disappeared. She continues to be elusive, and Darcy becomes increasingly intrigued by what he learns and observes about her from afar.
It's a solid enough beginning, but the book's true highlight is its central section, where several characters attend what can be best described as a Regency boot camp for women. Don't worry, though; the romance between Darcy and Elizabeth (they DO inevitably meet!) is woven into the story nicely.
Content is clean.
May 26, 2025
This author has an amazing way to write logical information as prose. Fitzwilliam Darcy insults a young lady and is called out for it. In an attempt to better himself he encounters Elizabeth Bennet, who could care less he exists. Elizabeth, having been embarrassed for the last time, insists her sisters be enrolled in a special course. Anymore would be a spoiler but the lessons learned by the young ladies are true even in modern times. Our dear couple does find their happiness, but not in the usual way.
October 5, 2025
Refreshing
4.5* rounded down
Very enjoyable and amusing story. A strong, resilient, and intelligent Elizabeth takes on the deficiencies of her parents. The book could do with another round of editing for minor mistakes and sometimes modern wording, but the unique storyline trumped those concerns for me.
4.5* rounded down
Very enjoyable and amusing story. A strong, resilient, and intelligent Elizabeth takes on the deficiencies of her parents. The book could do with another round of editing for minor mistakes and sometimes modern wording, but the unique storyline trumped those concerns for me.
May 21, 2025
Spotty
THis book was much more interesting than many l have read. It made me think about how people act and how to respond. I hope to read more from this author.
THis book was much more interesting than many l have read. It made me think about how people act and how to respond. I hope to read more from this author.
May 18, 2025
Wonderfully entertaining!
Elizabeth is the star of this alternate universe, wherein she spends about half her time (since the age of fifteen) living in London with the Gardiners. I read the first half of the story with a constant smile on my face, as Lizzy entertained constantly with wit and setdowns of Darcy and others. Since Gardiner's business involves the protection of clients from criminal and semi-criminal activities, the plot offers plenty of twists and turns as Darcy learns about humility and love. Do not miss this!
Elizabeth is the star of this alternate universe, wherein she spends about half her time (since the age of fifteen) living in London with the Gardiners. I read the first half of the story with a constant smile on my face, as Lizzy entertained constantly with wit and setdowns of Darcy and others. Since Gardiner's business involves the protection of clients from criminal and semi-criminal activities, the plot offers plenty of twists and turns as Darcy learns about humility and love. Do not miss this!
June 10, 2025
3⭐️. The premise is interesting and the writing is good but the story really drags at times. The relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is not well written at all, a lot more work should’ve been put into fleshing that out and while I enjoyed reading about the school it became very repetitive. I think the author needs to figure out how to find balance their plot and work on their overall storytelling.
May 18, 2025
Excellent story
It was a refreshing treat to read this book. Loved the way ODC met. Totally enjoyed the whole story. This is my first read by this author, and I like his sense of humour.. He had me lol several times.
It was a refreshing treat to read this book. Loved the way ODC met. Totally enjoyed the whole story. This is my first read by this author, and I like his sense of humour.. He had me lol several times.
July 27, 2025
Original variation
A very engaging story with a forward thinking approach that gets your attention from the very beginning. Imaginative storytelling and masterful development!
A very engaging story with a forward thinking approach that gets your attention from the very beginning. Imaginative storytelling and masterful development!
June 8, 2025
Love this author
Elizabeth more-or-less leaves home at age fifteen after a close call with being compromised by a rake, which she suspects was helped along by her matchmaking mother, and also after just being fed up with her horrible parents. She spends more than half of the year living with the Gardiners, where she gets involved with her uncle's business, the Cheapside Runners. That organization protects wealthy heiresses, and Elizabeth is directly involved in saving Georgiana Darcy from Wickham in Ramsgate. Elizabeth and Darcy have a cute "almost meeting" in London through Uncle Gardiner, but then meet for real months later at the Meryton assembly. Elizabeth was not at all impressed by Darcy in London, whereas Darcy is quickly intrigued by Elizabeth at the assembly.
I like this author. He's an automatic purchase for me. He likes to portray Elizabeth as sort of a super woman. In this tale, fifteen year old Elizabeth learns quickly about spotting bad men, about self defense, starts a school for young ladies who don't have a clue about the big, bad world, and learns about business and housekeeping. She's required by her father to live at Longbourn for five months per year, but while she's there, she's trying to save her sisters from their poor parenting. She's ruthless and forthright, so it's great fun to read about her interactions with Caroline Bingley and with her own parents. The banter among characters is superb and frequently irreverent.
I deducted two stars for the tedious and copious amount of content devoted to describing Elizabeth's school for young ladies, the curriculum, and in depth descriptions of each day's activities. I felt that we were given way more than we needed in order to get the point. However, the book is very well written and well edited. I sincerely hope Mr Mann will continue to create JAFF. I recommend this book.
Elizabeth more-or-less leaves home at age fifteen after a close call with being compromised by a rake, which she suspects was helped along by her matchmaking mother, and also after just being fed up with her horrible parents. She spends more than half of the year living with the Gardiners, where she gets involved with her uncle's business, the Cheapside Runners. That organization protects wealthy heiresses, and Elizabeth is directly involved in saving Georgiana Darcy from Wickham in Ramsgate. Elizabeth and Darcy have a cute "almost meeting" in London through Uncle Gardiner, but then meet for real months later at the Meryton assembly. Elizabeth was not at all impressed by Darcy in London, whereas Darcy is quickly intrigued by Elizabeth at the assembly.
I like this author. He's an automatic purchase for me. He likes to portray Elizabeth as sort of a super woman. In this tale, fifteen year old Elizabeth learns quickly about spotting bad men, about self defense, starts a school for young ladies who don't have a clue about the big, bad world, and learns about business and housekeeping. She's required by her father to live at Longbourn for five months per year, but while she's there, she's trying to save her sisters from their poor parenting. She's ruthless and forthright, so it's great fun to read about her interactions with Caroline Bingley and with her own parents. The banter among characters is superb and frequently irreverent.
I deducted two stars for the tedious and copious amount of content devoted to describing Elizabeth's school for young ladies, the curriculum, and in depth descriptions of each day's activities. I felt that we were given way more than we needed in order to get the point. However, the book is very well written and well edited. I sincerely hope Mr Mann will continue to create JAFF. I recommend this book.
September 6, 2025
Premise: Mr Gardiner has a very particular set of skills. Skills that make him a nightmare to people like George Wickham. And he's taught them all to Lizzy.
What I liked: This was a lot of fun. First, Darcy gets a 'Hunsford moment' in the form of a dressing down by Mr Gardiner, and begins his character improvement before going to Hertfordshire. Then, the one lady he'd like to know better keeps avoiding his presence to the point of not even being introduced by the time her sister falls ill at Netherfield. Then we get a sort of 'young ladies' bootcamp for avoiding cads and scoundrels', which is great fun.
Characterization: I mean, Elizabeth is basically Regency Black Widow, sans the catsuit, but it's so much fun. More indolent Mr Bennet. Crueler and more mercenary Mrs Bennet (particularly in Lizzy's backstory).
Spice level: Low/mild. Some kisses and fade to black.
Any non-canon parings:
Other notes or issues: Many references to attempted SA, both in the abstract and concrete. A few spelling errors ('Eaton' instead of 'Eton', etc.). I wish we could've seen Colonel Fitzwilliam's brother get his comeuppance.
What I liked: This was a lot of fun. First, Darcy gets a 'Hunsford moment' in the form of a dressing down by Mr Gardiner, and begins his character improvement before going to Hertfordshire. Then, the one lady he'd like to know better keeps avoiding his presence to the point of not even being introduced by the time her sister falls ill at Netherfield. Then we get a sort of 'young ladies' bootcamp for avoiding cads and scoundrels', which is great fun.
Characterization: I mean, Elizabeth is basically Regency Black Widow, sans the catsuit, but it's so much fun. More indolent Mr Bennet. Crueler and more mercenary Mrs Bennet (particularly in Lizzy's backstory).
Spice level: Low/mild. Some kisses and fade to black.
Any non-canon parings:
Other notes or issues: Many references to attempted SA, both in the abstract and concrete. A few spelling errors ('Eaton' instead of 'Eton', etc.). I wish we could've seen Colonel Fitzwilliam's brother get his comeuppance.
June 11, 2025
Not really my cup of tea . I confess I skipped to the end read the epilogue and was done.
Iyÿ just did not I interest me unfortunately.
Iyÿ just did not I interest me unfortunately.
May 20, 2025
I really liked the first chapters of this book but the plot rapidly became too unbelievable for my taste. Wade H Man likes to write no-nonsense Elizabeths but this particular Elizabeth is just too much (in my opinion) and loses her charm along the way. I gave The propriety failure by the same author five stars but I am disappointed with The Cheapside runners. The focus is not on the romance. It's ok when the writing and the plot are good but I just didn't warm up to Mrs Black's school. Too anachronistic. This variation is well written and I enjoyed the witty banter at Netherfield. Too bad Elizabeth and Darcy rapidly didn't feel at all like the beloved characters from P&P.
June 6, 2025
The first part of the book was great and I was very interested but the last 2/3rds of the book was tedious to read. Lots of italics to emphasize points which annoyed me and hardly any romance between Lizzy and Darcy. It was an afterthought. 3 stars for the first part and the fact that the writing was decent.
May 23, 2025
Where’s the romance?
Soooo much detail on self defense and decorum and so little romance. Felt like it cheated me out of three hours. If I want to read a book on those other subjects I’ll pick up a non-fiction version.
Soooo much detail on self defense and decorum and so little romance. Felt like it cheated me out of three hours. If I want to read a book on those other subjects I’ll pick up a non-fiction version.
May 19, 2025
Perfect Lizzy
I thought the storyline was unrealistic - the money made from Lizzy's business venture in 5 years was unbelievable. Lizzy was portrayed as much smarter and savvier than any sheltered teenager could possibly be. The romance was bland.
The author also uses italics to make sure the reader gets his point - which annoys me. I usually enjoy this author, but was disappointed. He gets 3 stars for a sort of interesting plot and his writing ability.
I thought the storyline was unrealistic - the money made from Lizzy's business venture in 5 years was unbelievable. Lizzy was portrayed as much smarter and savvier than any sheltered teenager could possibly be. The romance was bland.
The author also uses italics to make sure the reader gets his point - which annoys me. I usually enjoy this author, but was disappointed. He gets 3 stars for a sort of interesting plot and his writing ability.
May 29, 2025
This is a terrific book which seriously needs to be a duology. After Lizzy gets her sisters out of Longbourn and into her defense classes and Darcy gets involved, that's one story. Here everything is squished up and rushed to the alter, but the squished up part so easily be made into another book so we can keep reading this lovely story. I didn't want it to end!
June 13, 2025
With her sand cat ears, Elizabeth overhears a conversation between Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam while they are on the street 60 feet away. She's sitting at the window inside the Gardiners' home. I found that impossible to believe. However, the two traversed the 20 yards to the front door, where Darcy was summarily refused entry and dressed down for his arrogance by Mr. Gardiner.
In the cover art, Elizabeth, wearing a huge, honking earring, looks as stern and starchy as a spinster schoolteacher. Oh, yes, she is cynical all right, just as Mr. Gardiner said. Cynical, and hard as nails. She expects the worst of everyone, even her own family. Granted, in her years in London with the Gardiners, she has seen first hand too much of the suffering caused mainly by unprincipled men. It seems to have reduced her ability to look for the good in others. She has almost completely lost her trust in humanity. She shows no love for her family, even for Jane. Her wit has become criticism, and her charm has disappeared altogether. She reminded me of Lilith, in Cheers.
At Netherfield, Elizabeth usually countered Caroline's barbs so subtly that the woman doesn't even realize she's been bested. In this variation, Elizabeth's retorts are sharp and pointed. Caroline has no doubt at all that she's been humiliated in front of everyone.
At Longbourn, Elizabeth makes some deadly points about the family's behavior, and with bribes, convinces her parents to allow her four sisters to spend a fortnight in London at a training school. The hope is that it will wake them up to reality and force necessary changes in their behavior. The lessons in that school had more detail than was necessary for the story and made it drag from middle to end. Elizabeth's expertise stretches belief.
There are a lot of italicized words throughout the book. Some are direct quotes from Pride & Prejudice, even whole paragraphs of them. Others are single words for emphasis, where an exclamation mark would do; or sentences, often within the dialogue itself. It was disconcerting trying to figure it out. Case in point: “While you were gone, I met Mr Jacobson.”
The plot is highly original, if fantastical. There is no swoony romance, rather a clinical and calculated one, in fact. Multiple errors.
In the cover art, Elizabeth, wearing a huge, honking earring, looks as stern and starchy as a spinster schoolteacher. Oh, yes, she is cynical all right, just as Mr. Gardiner said. Cynical, and hard as nails. She expects the worst of everyone, even her own family. Granted, in her years in London with the Gardiners, she has seen first hand too much of the suffering caused mainly by unprincipled men. It seems to have reduced her ability to look for the good in others. She has almost completely lost her trust in humanity. She shows no love for her family, even for Jane. Her wit has become criticism, and her charm has disappeared altogether. She reminded me of Lilith, in Cheers.
At Netherfield, Elizabeth usually countered Caroline's barbs so subtly that the woman doesn't even realize she's been bested. In this variation, Elizabeth's retorts are sharp and pointed. Caroline has no doubt at all that she's been humiliated in front of everyone.
At Longbourn, Elizabeth makes some deadly points about the family's behavior, and with bribes, convinces her parents to allow her four sisters to spend a fortnight in London at a training school. The hope is that it will wake them up to reality and force necessary changes in their behavior. The lessons in that school had more detail than was necessary for the story and made it drag from middle to end. Elizabeth's expertise stretches belief.
There are a lot of italicized words throughout the book. Some are direct quotes from Pride & Prejudice, even whole paragraphs of them. Others are single words for emphasis, where an exclamation mark would do; or sentences, often within the dialogue itself. It was disconcerting trying to figure it out. Case in point: “While you were gone, I met Mr Jacobson.”
The plot is highly original, if fantastical. There is no swoony romance, rather a clinical and calculated one, in fact. Multiple errors.
May 18, 2025
love love love this Elizabeth!
I’ve read most of Mr Mann’s work; perhaps not always a first choice but always dependable for an engaging story. This book!? This one!? Chefs kiss! ive read hundreds of PP variants and now realize whichever author i enjoy, EB is not one dimensional in any of those books. every EB ive read and enjoyed to this point can be classified as snarky, whingey, obtuse, juvenile, narcissistic, less than clever, prejudiced, devoted, radical, manipulative, Saint..but what this author and all others (whom i thank most sincerely for their hard work to entertain us JA fans) have been showing is EB is all those people but still…she’s just herself. Just like JA intended-not perfect, but perfectly wonderful. Ok so im slow to catch on ugh. this book however is undoubtedly my fave bc she encompasses all those traits above yet still so very admirable and inspiring. Here, EB is rather acerbic but good willed and def is not much for tolerating stupid in any form —including in ppl form; due to a dark deed at a young age becomes rather decided in protecting those who are uneducated or unable protect themselves; she partners in an amazing way with Uncle Gardiner & changes her part of the world the best she knows how! We all hazard to guess it might be unrealistic feat what EB does in Regency England for real, but still so fun. FD is his usual but perhaps a more rakish arse, but reformation is once again his. Bingley & siblings much the same as canon. The major characters are in evidence, (Gardiner my fav) the Bennet parents are proof some ppl should never be blessed as to be parents, and some new characters to admire too. There were some stodgy parts but only a few, and loved ‘school’. If u read the book u will understand. will admit ending seemed too easily cobbled together with most everyone who deserved it getting their HEA…but think JA would approve. This book is now 🖤 as a fav and will read as often as any diehard (like myself) JAFF fan would.
I’ve read most of Mr Mann’s work; perhaps not always a first choice but always dependable for an engaging story. This book!? This one!? Chefs kiss! ive read hundreds of PP variants and now realize whichever author i enjoy, EB is not one dimensional in any of those books. every EB ive read and enjoyed to this point can be classified as snarky, whingey, obtuse, juvenile, narcissistic, less than clever, prejudiced, devoted, radical, manipulative, Saint..but what this author and all others (whom i thank most sincerely for their hard work to entertain us JA fans) have been showing is EB is all those people but still…she’s just herself. Just like JA intended-not perfect, but perfectly wonderful. Ok so im slow to catch on ugh. this book however is undoubtedly my fave bc she encompasses all those traits above yet still so very admirable and inspiring. Here, EB is rather acerbic but good willed and def is not much for tolerating stupid in any form —including in ppl form; due to a dark deed at a young age becomes rather decided in protecting those who are uneducated or unable protect themselves; she partners in an amazing way with Uncle Gardiner & changes her part of the world the best she knows how! We all hazard to guess it might be unrealistic feat what EB does in Regency England for real, but still so fun. FD is his usual but perhaps a more rakish arse, but reformation is once again his. Bingley & siblings much the same as canon. The major characters are in evidence, (Gardiner my fav) the Bennet parents are proof some ppl should never be blessed as to be parents, and some new characters to admire too. There were some stodgy parts but only a few, and loved ‘school’. If u read the book u will understand. will admit ending seemed too easily cobbled together with most everyone who deserved it getting their HEA…but think JA would approve. This book is now 🖤 as a fav and will read as often as any diehard (like myself) JAFF fan would.
August 7, 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 a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is a part of the Pride and Prejudice Variations series. A tale of unexpected connections, reluctant growth, and the challenge of becoming worthy of love.
Fitzwilliam Darcy owes a debt to the most unexpected of men, a tradesman from Cheapside who rescued his sister from certain ruin. When Mr. Gardiner of the "Cheapside Runners" intervenes to stop George Wickham's scheme, Darcy must confront his own prejudices and failings. His attempts to repay the debt lead to a humbling encounter that forces him to question everything he thought he knew about proper behavior and true gentility.
As Darcy resolves to improve himself, he encounters a puzzling young woman in Hertfordshire who, despite her apparent intelligence and charm, seems determined never to exchange a single word with him. Could there be a connection between this mysterious lady and the man from Cheapside who set him on his path to self-improvement? 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 a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is a part of the Pride and Prejudice Variations series. A tale of unexpected connections, reluctant growth, and the challenge of becoming worthy of love.
Fitzwilliam Darcy owes a debt to the most unexpected of men, a tradesman from Cheapside who rescued his sister from certain ruin. When Mr. Gardiner of the "Cheapside Runners" intervenes to stop George Wickham's scheme, Darcy must confront his own prejudices and failings. His attempts to repay the debt lead to a humbling encounter that forces him to question everything he thought he knew about proper behavior and true gentility.
As Darcy resolves to improve himself, he encounters a puzzling young woman in Hertfordshire who, despite her apparent intelligence and charm, seems determined never to exchange a single word with him. Could there be a connection between this mysterious lady and the man from Cheapside who set him on his path to self-improvement? 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 2, 2025
What wonderfully fresh story. The twist to the original story is so good and quite believable. It kept me up the whole night
Its mr. Gardiner who saves Georgiana and requests Darcy to join him for dinner with his two nieces as a repayment. Darcy immediately assumes the worst and outside the Gardiner house has his Meryton assembly moment. Dinner is promptly cancelled and Darcy is humbled. He examines his behaviour and tries to correct
When he reaches Netherfield, he encounters a young lady who refuses to acknowledge him and that has him so confused
This Lizzy is intelligent, resourceful, decisive and very very street smart. we get to know the backstory why she spends 6-7 months in London with Gardiners since the age of 15 later in story
I loved the concept of the school and how the ladies fare there
The ODC do get their moments but this book is much more about what women of that era faces and how people tried to help them in whatever way they can.
A definite read.
Its mr. Gardiner who saves Georgiana and requests Darcy to join him for dinner with his two nieces as a repayment. Darcy immediately assumes the worst and outside the Gardiner house has his Meryton assembly moment. Dinner is promptly cancelled and Darcy is humbled. He examines his behaviour and tries to correct
When he reaches Netherfield, he encounters a young lady who refuses to acknowledge him and that has him so confused
This Lizzy is intelligent, resourceful, decisive and very very street smart. we get to know the backstory why she spends 6-7 months in London with Gardiners since the age of 15 later in story
I loved the concept of the school and how the ladies fare there
The ODC do get their moments but this book is much more about what women of that era faces and how people tried to help them in whatever way they can.
A definite read.
May 28, 2025
Runners in Cheapside?
This is an enjoyable and hilarious tale of our dear couple meeting, speaking, and falling in love. Beware many members are out of character.
The premise for this variation is quite new and exciting. How do Darcy and Elizabeth meet? Is it a cute or awful? How does their relationship mature and grow? There is a happily ever after.
I encourage unsure readers to read a couple of chapters before making a decision. I loved this story; it is one of the best I have read this year. It is one I plan to purchase and reread.
This tale will take several afternoons with many cups of tea. I stayed up to read and review it; I could not put it down. I laughed throughout the story.
This is an enjoyable and hilarious tale of our dear couple meeting, speaking, and falling in love. Beware many members are out of character.
The premise for this variation is quite new and exciting. How do Darcy and Elizabeth meet? Is it a cute or awful? How does their relationship mature and grow? There is a happily ever after.
I encourage unsure readers to read a couple of chapters before making a decision. I loved this story; it is one of the best I have read this year. It is one I plan to purchase and reread.
This tale will take several afternoons with many cups of tea. I stayed up to read and review it; I could not put it down. I laughed throughout the story.
August 6, 2025
Cheapside Runners offers a solid story at its core, with a strong, serious, and admirably willful protagonist in Elizabeth. Her character stands out as a steady anchor throughout the novel, and her determination adds depth to the historical setting.
However, the book is weighed down by excessive exposition. Much of the narrative space is taken up by recounting previous events — sometimes multiple times — which slows the pacing considerably. Instead of allowing the momentum to build, the frequent retelling of what’s already occurred feels repetitive and unnecessary.
While the premise and characters show real promise, the overreliance on exposition ultimately dilutes the impact. A more streamlined approach to storytelling would have made this a much more engaging read.
However, the book is weighed down by excessive exposition. Much of the narrative space is taken up by recounting previous events — sometimes multiple times — which slows the pacing considerably. Instead of allowing the momentum to build, the frequent retelling of what’s already occurred feels repetitive and unnecessary.
While the premise and characters show real promise, the overreliance on exposition ultimately dilutes the impact. A more streamlined approach to storytelling would have made this a much more engaging read.
June 1, 2025
Captured From The First Sentence
Oh boy! Is there another variation that is as gripping? I doubt it. Every chapter, every page, every sentence holds your interest and makes you want to continue reading. Even if you figured out before Mary who Mrs Black was, did you figure out what started Elizabeth on the pursuit of curtailing scoundrels?
Even the conversation about a truly 'accomplished woman' was extremely well done. Why Jane still married milchtoast is a mystery but the heart wants what the heart wants. She may have decided to be the one who wears the pants. Who knows? But every part of this book begs READ MORE! Great Job!
Oh boy! Is there another variation that is as gripping? I doubt it. Every chapter, every page, every sentence holds your interest and makes you want to continue reading. Even if you figured out before Mary who Mrs Black was, did you figure out what started Elizabeth on the pursuit of curtailing scoundrels?
Even the conversation about a truly 'accomplished woman' was extremely well done. Why Jane still married milchtoast is a mystery but the heart wants what the heart wants. She may have decided to be the one who wears the pants. Who knows? But every part of this book begs READ MORE! Great Job!
June 6, 2025
What fun!
I have really enjoyed Wade H. Mann’s excellent writing. He has a fun imagination for creating more entertaining situations for our dear P & P friends. I lol’d many times. I think the middle of the story could have been tightened up a bit to allow more delicious post school student’s outcomes and what happened to all and bask in that for a while. I am happy to have found this author as I very much appreciate his work and enjoy his sense of humor. Lady Catherine, Mrs. Bennet and the supercilious Bingly sisters could benefit from a stent at the school. Mr. Gardiner was excellent in the story as the vigilante don of Cheapside (more or less).
I have really enjoyed Wade H. Mann’s excellent writing. He has a fun imagination for creating more entertaining situations for our dear P & P friends. I lol’d many times. I think the middle of the story could have been tightened up a bit to allow more delicious post school student’s outcomes and what happened to all and bask in that for a while. I am happy to have found this author as I very much appreciate his work and enjoy his sense of humor. Lady Catherine, Mrs. Bennet and the supercilious Bingly sisters could benefit from a stent at the school. Mr. Gardiner was excellent in the story as the vigilante don of Cheapside (more or less).
August 14, 2025
read, enjoy and laugh along.
I enjoyed this story which developed surprisingly for me. I'd overlooked it for a few weeks because I'd misunderstood the premise. Starting at Longbourn Lizzy has gone to care for Jane after the horse ride in the rain and.is more strident than is usual, the card game is very funny as is the 'accomplished ladies dialogue and you start to see a difference from the delightful and witty Elizabeth to a more worldly wise young woman. Runners has nothing to do with Bow Street runners, but for the crime of how women are treated in society. No spoilers, read, enjoy and laugh along.
I enjoyed this story which developed surprisingly for me. I'd overlooked it for a few weeks because I'd misunderstood the premise. Starting at Longbourn Lizzy has gone to care for Jane after the horse ride in the rain and.is more strident than is usual, the card game is very funny as is the 'accomplished ladies dialogue and you start to see a difference from the delightful and witty Elizabeth to a more worldly wise young woman. Runners has nothing to do with Bow Street runners, but for the crime of how women are treated in society. No spoilers, read, enjoy and laugh along.
May 18, 2025
a wonderful book!
I profoundly enjoyed this book! It was enjoyable, interesting and fun. I have so much respect and gratitude for the lessons and tone of the story, a healthy and wise way to view the world that is not limited to only regency era. I deeply appreciate a book that deals with the dangers women may face, without blaming men, being dreary dark or depressing and showing that it’s possible to navigate the world and be happy. The world can use more books like this. I will certainly read more from this author
I profoundly enjoyed this book! It was enjoyable, interesting and fun. I have so much respect and gratitude for the lessons and tone of the story, a healthy and wise way to view the world that is not limited to only regency era. I deeply appreciate a book that deals with the dangers women may face, without blaming men, being dreary dark or depressing and showing that it’s possible to navigate the world and be happy. The world can use more books like this. I will certainly read more from this author
June 30, 2025
A very different approach
This novel was both interesting and intriguing. The only thing that bothered me was the italics on words directly from P & P. I've read it so many times that I know those words. There was no need to slap me each time. Later, Mann used her words more sparingly, so the italics did not disturb my enjoyment of the excellent story. Is it realistic? Not really, but so what? It was fun, a bit mysterious in places, and delightfully original in its premise. I look forward to more by Mr. Mann.
This novel was both interesting and intriguing. The only thing that bothered me was the italics on words directly from P & P. I've read it so many times that I know those words. There was no need to slap me each time. Later, Mann used her words more sparingly, so the italics did not disturb my enjoyment of the excellent story. Is it realistic? Not really, but so what? It was fun, a bit mysterious in places, and delightfully original in its premise. I look forward to more by Mr. Mann.
August 8, 2025
Avid Reader
If this was a draft, I never saw it; I have enjoyed reading the published version. I am definitely a fan of Ward's work!
Darcy's insult before he sees or meets Elizabeth was priceless. I wondered how they would ever meet or get together as a couple. Her indifference kept Darcy running after Elizabeth until necessity forced a conversation. Afterwards Elizabeth honed in on her family. Women had few options, and making the wrong choice could limit or end one's life. Elizabeth was determined to help her sisters have better lives.
If this was a draft, I never saw it; I have enjoyed reading the published version. I am definitely a fan of Ward's work!
Darcy's insult before he sees or meets Elizabeth was priceless. I wondered how they would ever meet or get together as a couple. Her indifference kept Darcy running after Elizabeth until necessity forced a conversation. Afterwards Elizabeth honed in on her family. Women had few options, and making the wrong choice could limit or end one's life. Elizabeth was determined to help her sisters have better lives.
December 22, 2025
entertaining book but rushed ending
Entertaining book but the ending is rushed. I honestly was expecting a second book as it would have been quite interesting. The characters have a good wrap up of the story but it feels rushed. If the author ever expanded it into a 2 book story I think I’d give it 5 stars allowing how the boot camp of a school changes all the girls and how they navigate society afterwards and showing not telling how it impacts the courtship of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth. As is id give it 3.5 stars. Entertaining read but a little rushed.
Entertaining book but the ending is rushed. I honestly was expecting a second book as it would have been quite interesting. The characters have a good wrap up of the story but it feels rushed. If the author ever expanded it into a 2 book story I think I’d give it 5 stars allowing how the boot camp of a school changes all the girls and how they navigate society afterwards and showing not telling how it impacts the courtship of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth. As is id give it 3.5 stars. Entertaining read but a little rushed.
May 19, 2025
Great P & P variation!
As an avid fan of this genre, I've read the good, bad, and indifferent. Many have spelling & editing problems, at least what has been borrowed on KU.
That said, this variation by Wade H. Mann is in the excellent category.
Thoughtful, well edited, and unique. These are a few of the words that come to mind, when reflecting on what I just finished reading.
No sense in rehashing hints of the plot, I just recommend that you check this one out!
As an avid fan of this genre, I've read the good, bad, and indifferent. Many have spelling & editing problems, at least what has been borrowed on KU.
That said, this variation by Wade H. Mann is in the excellent category.
Thoughtful, well edited, and unique. These are a few of the words that come to mind, when reflecting on what I just finished reading.
No sense in rehashing hints of the plot, I just recommend that you check this one out!
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