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The Briar Bargain: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

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She never wanted a fairy tale prince—but he showed up anyway.

Nursing her sister at Netherfield should have been Elizabeth Bennet’s only concern. Instead, she must endure Mr. Darcy’s intense scrutiny and Miss Bingley’s pointed barbs. And after relentless rain turns the road home into a river, Elizabeth is forced to make a daring rescue. Now she’s sick, stranded, and at the mercy of Mr. Darcy’s unsettling concern.

Fitzwilliam Darcy lives his life by the stay composed, stay detached, and never, ever fall for a woman outside his sphere. But Elizabeth Bennet, with her mud-streaked hem, sharp tongue, and fearless heart, unravels him.

As Miss Bingley’s schemes grow increasingly desperate, Elizabeth insists on returning to Longbourn—even if it means walking ten miles through treacherous conditions. Alarmed, Darcy offers her a stay until she’s well, and he’ll shield her from every insult.

As Elizabeth discovers that accepting help can be its own kind of strength, and Darcy learns that yielding doesn’t make him weak, another kind of tempest begins to gather—one neither of them expected.

Sometimes love means standing firm in the storm. And sometimes, it means surrendering.

The Briar Bargain is the third standalone novel in the Darcy & Elizabeth Rom Com Collection.

*This is a full-length novel of approximately 90,000 words

358 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 18, 2025

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96 people want to read

About the author

Melanie Rachel

40 books164 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
Profile Image for Sam H..
1,234 reviews63 followers
September 7, 2025
Sometimes the flowers with thorns have the most beautiful fragrance

The story opens with Elizabeth desperate to depart Netherfield after caring for a sick Jane. However, extreme weather forces other plans on them.

The two Bennet ladies stay on, contributing in their own way to the endeavors to safeguard Netherfield tennants. And in Jane's case to reach an earlier than in canon Happy Ever After.

For Elizabeth the struggle becomes real. She is an independant, capable woman who awaits no man to get a job done she sees as necessary.  This places her in danger, more than once, in fact several times. She begins from sort of despising Darcy to slowly, very slowly see him in an entirely different light.

Our dear boy has a struggle of his own to wage. Fighting his feelings despite it being a losing battle. A little bit of repetition through the book as he works through his she is beneath me dilema...

Caroline eventually loses the plot, but no spoilers here!

This is my favorite yet in Ms. Rachel's fairytale Pride and Prejudice series. It sets a fast pace, slightly slower burn, and a never ending display of witty, charming, baiting dialog. 
Loved it!

I received an advance review copy for free, and voluntarily leave my review.
Profile Image for Melanie.
209 reviews17 followers
September 15, 2025
When Jane gets ill after her ride to Netherfield Elizabeth hurries there to care for her. Now Jane has recovered enough that the two can finally return home. Not too soon in Elizabeth’s opinion, her patience has worn thin by Mr Darcy’s intense scrutiny and Miss Bingley’s continuing insults. But fate has other plans - intense rain and flooding force the Bennet ladies to prolong their stay. When Elizabeth falls ill herself after a daring rescue she begins to see a new side of Mr Darcy.
Darcy for his part is enchanted by Elizabeth but he is determined to not pursue his interest because he thinks her unsuitable. But due to her needing to prolong her stay he falls more and more for her. When she, against all sense and still ill, tries to reach Longbourn on foot he strikes a bargain with her - he will champion her against Miss Bingley's insults when she stays until she is recovered and can return safely. Elizabeth accepts and begins to see a new side of Darcy.
Will this bargain change Elizabeth's opinion of Darcy? Will they be able to stop Miss Bingley from further insulting Elizabeth? And what about Darcy’s growing feelings?

The story was very well written by the author Melanie Rachel. I always love her stories and they are a must-buy for me. This one is no exception and it fits perfectly in The Rom Com collection. If I would need to decide which is the best book of this series I would not be able to do it because they are all equally excellent.

The story takes place in Netherfield and the inhabitants including Jane and Elizabeth are affected by flooding. Therefore the circle of characters is limited to the inhabitants and their guests. In addition no-one, not even Darcy 😉 , has the chance to run away to avoid feelings or a confrontation. I really love this forced proximity trope because normally Darcy and Elizabeth sort out their differences much sooner and also come much soon to an understanding. Darcy is forced to stay in Elizabeth's company and begins to love her more and more. Elizabeth, on her side, recognizes that Darcy has not shown her his real personality at all and bit by bit, while coming to know him better, she discovers his real personality and even things not many know of him. I like this slow development of their companionship very much. They spend a lot of time together, they talk and they share experiences.

I really like that Darcy, as well as Elizabeth, need to give up something to come to an understanding. Darcy needs to let down his armour that protected him from being vulnerable and Elizabeth needs to give up part of her independence and accept the help of another person. But instead of losing something with giving up these things they gain their heart's desire, the love of the other and can start their lives together. I like that this is like a little preview on married life where they surely need to compromise very often.

I really like the idea of Elizabeth and Darcy forming a bargain and that Darcy, in fulfilling his part, needs to protect Elizabeth from Caroline's insults. And he is really good at it. I like his sharp, intelligent replies and the underlying humour. No wonder that Elizabeth is drawn to this changed Darcy.

I also really enjoyed that Bingley is more observant in this story and very early discovers Darcy’s interest in Elizabeth. I am also very impressed with him that he grows into his role as a master while fighting the flooding and that he takes his sister Caroline in hand (in the end not so successful, but with the flooding he was unfortunately not able to send her away as planned).

I never thought I would like Mr Hurst but he was a rather clever fellow in this one. Like Bingley he was very observant and when he sees Caroline’s machinations he takes care to extricate his wife from her clutches. With doing this and finally talking with his wife he is also able to change his fate for the better and restore his family’s harmony.

As the circle of characters is limited you may guess who tries to come between Darcy and Elizabeth. And yes, she tries everything and is more pointed and cruel in her insults than ever. But fortunately she is not successful in the end.

If you like to know how a prolonged stay due to flooding will alter the relationship of Darcy and Elizabeth you should definitely read this excellent variation.

I highly recommend it

I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,231 reviews32 followers
September 29, 2025
Fabulous! Thank you Melanie Rachel!!

Elizabeth is at Netherfield nursing Jane through a cold, and the day that Jane is finally feeling well enough to return home, a torrential rainstorm hits, and makes escape, from Miss Bingley and her snide comments, impossible. Between the rain and a catastrophic flooding of the bridge, everyone at Netherfield is trapped, and Caroline Bingley's cruel barbs at the Bennett sisters escalate until Elizabeth decides, unwisely, to walk through the mud and water to Longbourn, just to get away from Caroline. Elizabeth is amazed and surprised when Darcy makes a bargain with her. If she'll stay and be safe, he'll intercede on her behalf whenever Caroline gets snarky. Elizabeth accepts the bargain, and begins to see a completely different side to Darcy, who she's written off as cold, arrogant, and unfeeling.

I like this author. She's an automatic purchase for me. This is one of her best that I've read. It's great fun, filled to the brim with witty dialogue, superb romance, gripping action and drama, and very satisfying comeuppances. Darcy and Elizabeth are both just the way we like to see them. Even better, both Bingley and Jane are given backbones and interesting personalities. The flood and it's effect on everyone, including the tenants and household, plays a key role in sorting out whose characters will succeed under pressure, and whose will be exposed as wanting.

The book is very well written and well edited. I'll definitely be reading this one again. I recommend it highly.
Profile Image for Elizabeth S.
798 reviews17 followers
September 20, 2025
When persistent rain and flooding wash out a bridge, Elizabeth and Jane are unable to return to Longbourn after the latter's illness. Several tenant families are forced to seek shelter when the river threatens their homes. Darcy and Elizabeth both show heroism in a desperate situation.

Most of the story involves Caroline's unrelenting attempts to belittle the Bennet sisters, leading to Darcy's bargain with Elizabeth to shield her from the barbs. I did enjoy how Darcy and Elizabeth stupefied Caroline with their debate about a Shakespearean sonnet. Mr. Hurst occasionally emerged from his stupor to utter some philosophical musings, usually at the Bingley sisters' expense. It was a heartwarming change in the depiction of Mr. Hurst and Louisa, one I've never read before.

While not filled with angst, it wasn't really a comedy, and there was a bit more nasty Caroline than I was comfortable with. Nevertheless, Melanie Rachel's books are always must-reads.
24 reviews
September 19, 2025
Lizzy nearly drowned

Catastrophic rain and flooding force Lizzy and Jane to stay at Netherfield as they are caught by the storm while preparing to leave after Jane's recovery. The bridge to Meryton and Longbor ne is underwater and impassible. Mr. Bingley is overjoyed and Mr. Darcy is going crazy. He has been fighting his feelings for Lizzy for months, and is losing the battle as he witnesses her bravery, witticisms, intelligence and beauty. The overrunning river has Lizzy and Jane working with the homeless tenants. Miss Bingley is her normal cold, disdaining, self-serving self. Jealous of Darcy's growing infatuation with Lizzy and hating all the tenants in the house one 8 year old child goes missing and!Izzy goes to find him. The riverbank fails a d the child goes into the river to save him..The boy's father sees them and is able to rescue the boy, but Lizzy can't hold on and gets carried away. Darcy has been running along the bank trying to get to her. The current drags her under and Darcy dives in to save her. That's the beginning. You'll love the rest. READ IT!
Profile Image for Teresita.
1,245 reviews12 followers
November 5, 2025
A novel and exciting book

Departing from the original plot with an emergency, this one weaves an interesting courtship for our beloved couple. An exciting variation with unexpected situations and engaging bargains.
388 reviews15 followers
September 16, 2025
Solid, well-told JAFF. Melanie Rachel is one of my favourite JAFF authors and I am loving this series so far! Now onto The Briar Bargain:

Things I liked:
+ plot (Just like Mr Darcy's Folly, I thought the plot was extremely well-conceived. It fit well into the original P&P yet added an interesting twist to the story.)
+ Darcy standing up for Elizabeth (heart eyes!!)
+ Mr Hurst's character (note: deviation from original)

Things I disliked:
- I don't really think this is a rom com. It's light-hearted and very low-angst, just don't expect to actually laugh.
- I thought the scene that led to Elizabeth and Darcy's 2nd bargain was not quite in keeping with Elizabeth's character. The premise was a little shakier than I like.

Overall, I consider my dislikes fairly minor and they didn't hinder my enjoyment of the book, which is why I'm awarding it 4.5 stars. It's not my absolute favourite of Melanie Rachel's, but it's very good.
Profile Image for Saysha.
609 reviews
October 12, 2025
I liked the action in this novel, but felt like the writing wasn't as sharp as in previous novels, and the plot moved more slowly. The cover art was childish and so was the epilogue. Now that I'm sensitized to window gazing, I noticed how often it happens in this novel especially by Darcy. There was a whole section of card playing that felt like filler, Caroline Bingley became the evil villain to an almost irrational extreme, and the romance was less interesting. I think my favorite part of this book was Mr. Hurst's character development, and the interactions among the three gentlemen.
Profile Image for Marmom.
387 reviews12 followers
September 21, 2025
I enjoyed the humor and storyline. I did not enjoy how perfect Darcy was. I removed a star for it. Was longer than it needed to be, some parts were repeated throughout the book that didn’t need to be.
3 reviews
September 20, 2025
Fall in love with Mr. Darcy all over again!

As Elizabeth is finalizing her plans to leave Netherfield after Jane's illness, a torrential rainstorm causes the river to flood, overflowing the bridge to Longbourn. Frustrated by the delay, but deeply concerned for the affected tenant families, she and Jane help organize the relief efforts while Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst snipe and complain about unwanted guests.
Lizzy nearly perishes while saving the life of a tenant child, surviving only due to Mr. Darcy's heroism. It is during her convalescence she makes a bargain with Mr. Darcy - to allow him to shield her from Miss Bingley's increasingly vicious (and dangerous) attacks in exchange for her staying at Netherfield and regaining her strength. This bargain allows us to see a completely new facet of Darcy's personality...one that leads Lizzy to realize there is much more to him than the stuck-up prig which he appeared at the Meryton assembly.
What I loved about this book:
- Melanie Rachel's sparkling dialogue ... I was giggling before I turned the very first page.
- The delightful development of Darcy's character in this story. "Drainage patterns?" "If my knot must speak for me, I am already undone." I honestly fell in love with him all over again!
- How intricate the story is, without it being needlessly complex. In fact, all the characters are very well developed. Mr. and Mrs. Hurst are a welcome surprise, and Harrison is a hoot!
- The gentle, deepening admiration and attraction the title characters feel for each other is simply lovely.
I love the first two books of this new series (The Slipper Scandal and Mr. Darcy's Folly) but this book, in my opinion, is the best yet. I highly recommend getting a copy for yourself, and settling in with a cup of tea (or apple cider) and falling in love with our dear couple all over again.

This book was read as an ARC and this review is my voluntary submission.
213 reviews
September 29, 2025
i expected to like this book better, but at least I met an interesting Hurst

The book should have been half its length, in part because Miss Bingley can only insult Miss Bennet for so many days. Scene began to blend into scene.

The author’s insistence on showing AND telling added an extra third to the book. For example, “‘I could not help but notice,’ she said after a moment, ‘that your gaze lingered on the house as you emerged. I do not suppose you are contemplating the angle of the sun or the state of the shutters?’ Her perception continued to astonish him. That she had correctly judged his preoccupation from such a distance spoke to an awareness that was both flattering and slightly unnerving.”

I applaud Ms Rachel for creating a dynamic Hurst, but even he lost the power to allay the tedium of the book.
Profile Image for Celia.
163 reviews2 followers
September 28, 2025
In this one, a flood destroys the bridge connecting Longbourn and Netherfield when Elizabeth and Jane are staying there for the latter's recuperation. Pretty early in the book, Lizzy notices that a tenant kid being sheltered in one of Netherfield's spare rooms has gone missing. That kid, apparently, felt the need to save his pet rabbits. When the flood inevitably seizes him, Elizabeth intervenes, leading to Darcy diving in to save her and become a hero. This sets the stage for their relationship warming up while the road remains impassable.

This book was pretty good overall, though I think it was poorly edited. It should've probably been cut down by 25%. I confess that another persistent qualm I had was how often character's lines would start with "I confess." I must also admit the book also had too much "I must admit..." Also, too much "Mr Darcy, you won't let me fall, will you? -Never, Miss Elizabeth. Never"-type dialogue.

As per usual, the "Caroline Bingley as main antagonist" plotline felt ridiculous and hollow to me. In the original P&P, lying in her letters to Jane was the worst thing she ever did. She even warned Elizabeth about Wickham. I don't think a few petty remarks behind closed doors in the original warrants her being a major villain. But worse in this book is just how protracted the Netherfield visit is. It felt pretty interminable; honestly, maybe Caroline was just being a bitch to assuage her boredom. In any case, the pacing was extremely slow.

Another thing I don't like is when authors skip over the surprising reveal that Elizabeth is in love with Darcy in cases where the Bennets see none of Elizabeth's feelings changing. That is way more interesting than boring exchanges of vows, reflections on the newly married state (especially in clean romance), and "oh they have children" copy-paste epilogues. How do her family and friends feel about her suddenly being in love with a guy she couldn't stand two or three weeks before? I get not wanting all the younger sisters to distract from the main focus, but eliding them, Charlotte, and Mr and Mrs Bennet completely seems like a waste.

Even with these criticisms, I liked the rapport between E&D. There was clever repartée when they weren't being interrupted. If the ratio of that to instances of "I confess" was better, I would've liked this a lot more. Rachel is a talented writer and I blame the under-editing for this book's major prose problems.
Profile Image for Chetana.
1,010 reviews28 followers
December 14, 2025
3.25⭐️

I wanted to love this book, I did, but it was not to be. The premise is good with there being a flood that extends Lizzy and Jane's time in Netherfield after Jane recovers from her illness. The treatment doled out by the Bingley sisters, Caroline in Particular, drives Lizzy to try and walk home in bad weather while sick and Darcy promises to champion her. I mean that is awesome and I have to say I liked seeing Lizzy and Darcy showing a united front when being needled by Caroline. It got repetitive very fast though. I was disappointed with how Caroline was handled there at the end. .

The friendship that blossomed between Darcy and Lizzy was fun to watch and we actually got to se a bit of banter and light flirting here. But the inner monologues of the 2 got a bit tedious after a while. But I have to say I liked this Darcy. Though he was a jerk for the first few pages, he did learn where he was wrong and grew through out the book.

This story had limited characters like in Elizabeth in Scotland and the characters were more fleshed out because of it. Bun unlike the other book I felt that the plot here happened independent of anyone else. In the other book we got to see what happened after they got back to Meryton and Longbourn but in this story we have a clear time jump and we do not get to see Darcy interacting with the family that he previously deemed unfit to associate with. I think the book could have been improved upon by shortening the time at Netherfield and giving us a chapter or two after the ladies returned Home. Alas that was not the case.

In conclusion, this was a fun read that needed a little culling. But I did have a smile on my face while reading it and I loved the way the characters behaved, not just Darcy and Lizzy but Bingley, Jane and even the Hursts.
Profile Image for Sheila Majczan.
2,711 reviews207 followers
October 1, 2025
This variation takes place mostly at Netherfield until we get to the epilogue. Elizabeth is there nursing her sister, Jane, when torrential rains prevent anyone from traveling from that estate. When some tenants need to be moved from their homes, Elizabeth sees one of their sons swept into the raging river and jumps in to save him. She then struggles to keep from being swept away herself, tangling with a briar bush which shreds some of her clothes...as well as Darcy's shirt when he jumps in to save her.

So it is that Elizabeth finds herself now convalescing also...and at the mercy of Caroline Bingley's never ending sly insults and innuendos. She finally decides that come "hell or high water" she is walking back to Longbourn, not knowing if she can cross the one inundated bridge. Darcy sees her leave and goes after her. When she explains her reasons for "having" to leave he makes a bargain with her; he will protect her from Caroline's barbs if she will stay and wait for better travel possibilities. His responses when Caroline does attempt such are well written.

Of course, Jane and Bingley have their relationship and in this tale Bingley finally develops a backbone and, in the end, Caroline will be going off to relations...as soon as travel is allowed.

We do have an event wherein Elizabeth is locked in a neglected small drawing room in which the chimney does not drawn properly. Not going to relate that thread so as not to spoil it for you.

We also have Caroline at her "best" when she accuses a servant girl of stealing a brooch from her...a girl Elizabeth has stood up for in the past.

This author's books are automatic "borrows" from KU. So it is that I recommend this story to you.
Profile Image for Kathi Fuller.
32 reviews1 follower
September 19, 2025
A hero for the heroine

What if Jane and Elizabeth were stranded at Netherfield for longer than in canon? I’ve read several that have them remain a few more days, but what if it were weeks? Forced proximity allows Darcy, Elizabeth, Bingley, and Jane to come to know each other on a deeper level — without the distractions of vulgar Bennets, wicked Wickhams, or ridiculous Collinses to derail their budding romances. About 93% of the story unfolds at Netherfield, with only Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst as antagonists. Throw in a likable Mr. Hurst for good measure, and you get an engaging, sometimes harrowing, romantic story.

Elizabeth saves a boy; Darcy saves Elizabeth. These acts reveal their true characters to each other, helping them fall in love and overcome prejudices. I liked Bingley and Jane in this version. Oftentimes, they are portrayed as meh, one-dimensional characters. In Briar Bargain, Bingley flourishes as the master of an estate in crisis. Miss Bennet’s quiet strength shines through when defending her sister, family, and herself. She takes the lead in tending to the needs of the women and children displaced by the flood, while Bingley takes charge of organizing the men and repairs. Darcy is content to play second fiddle.

The Briar Bargain has a place in my Reread Collection. In fact, I’ve already read it a second time and enjoyed it even more than my first read through of the ARC. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Ms. Rachel’s stories are always a pleasure for me to read. She is one of my go-to authors because she writes clean, sweet, engaging stories that have plenty of Darcy and Elizabeth together time.
Profile Image for Terri M.
211 reviews3 followers
October 4, 2025
This is a story (very) loosely based on the fairy tale Sleeping Beauty. I don’t think Melanie Rachel could write a bad story if she tried.

In this tale a much bigger storm has hit when Jane becomes ill at Netherfield. Bridges are out, grounds are flooded and tenants are unable to stay in their homes. Elizabeth rescues a young boy from drowning and in her turn is rescued by Darcy. After the event Elizabeth is fed up with Miss Bingley’s venom and decides to walk home, even though the damage to the countryside will make her walk 10 miles instead of 3. Darcy stops her and bargains that he will deflect Miss Bingley’s comments if Elizabeth will agree to stay. They make a friendship pact.

The only villains are Miss Bingley (and she is formidable) and Darcy’s misplaced pride. My favorite two chapters are the last two. The one on their wedding night (no worries…there is nothing physical beyond small touches) is so sweetly romantic. The last chapter is after they have been married some years and have children (who definitely take after their mother!). It’s quite comedic. Enjoy this fabulous piece of writing. I certainly did!
Profile Image for Nina.
284 reviews7 followers
September 18, 2025
The title of the book has reference to sleeping beauty, but it is not a fairy tale.

Just as Jane has gotten well enough to leave Netherfield as in cannon, very heavy rain prevents Jane and Elizabeth from returning to Longbourn.
As usual Darcy feels a strong attraction to Elizabeth and has her being none the wiser.
The river has risen so much, that both bridges are flooded. The flood also forces some tenants families to leave their homes. Some are kept at an hunting lodge and some are staying at Netherfield. One young boy has left his rabbits behind and are very worried about them and talks to Elizabeth about them. She can't reassure him, so he leaves Netherfield to investigate and Elizabeth follows him later. She finds him just as he is in the river, so she jumps in after him and manages to push him out of the current. So he can be saved, she however is overpowered by the current, luckily Mr Darcy observes this and saves her. Unfortunately she is unconsious for a while, so it is Jane's turn to nurse a sister.
She wakes up very weak, this doesn't keep Caroline from being a most ungracious host. She is so horrible, that Elizabeth decides to try walk 10 miles back to Longbourn to get away from her even though she is still very weak. Once again luck is with her, Darcy see her trying to leave and he has to make a bargain with her, in order for her to agree to stay.
His saving her life and defending her against Carolines spite, makes Elizabeth see Darcy in a much better light. Though Darcy still has considerable internal struggles.
Jane is also showing her stellar character by helping with the displaced tenants, and she and Bingley are taking advantage of their added time together
I would recommend you to join our dear couple in the sorting out their feelings all while Caroline is being very vindictive.

The story is very well written and the author is one of my favorite JAFF writers. I hope, you will enjoy it.

I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
667 reviews
September 23, 2025
Darcy Defends Elizabeth

I'm all in whenever I see Darcy defending Elizabeth.

- The only characters are Elizabeth, Jane, Darcy, the Bingleys, and the Hursts, although there are also servants and workers with lines as well.

- About 90% of the story takes place at Netherfield.

- I liked how things ended for Caroline. It felt natural.

*Side note: The author unknowingly addressed a few of my pet peeves usually found in most variations of Pride and Prejudice, such as:

1) Bingley, as a tenant, uses his own funds to care for his landlord's tenants and repairs. In this story, the author explains.
2) Miss Bingley, as a tenant with a short lease, wants to redecorate the entire house, which is questioned.
3) Miss Bingley doesn't have to wear orange; she can be fashionable and wear complementary colors and still come across as a shrew.
___
Elizabeth loses her slipper again! But no scandal this time😄. Sorry, I couldn't resist.
Profile Image for Bethany Tomerlin Prince.
149 reviews2 followers
October 20, 2025
Everyone Gets to be Their Best Selves

Everyone in this version gets to be their best selves. (Except for Miss Bingley who goes full Elmer Fudd trying to embarrass Elizabeth. And watching her fail is majorly entertaining.)

Elizabeth is brave and daring. Rescuing maids whose skirts catch on fire & a little boy who falls into a raging river.

Darcy is swoonworthy when he rescuses Elizabeth (and gives up his shirt when she won't let go). And when he defends Elizabeth from Miss Bingly's barbs. Seeing Darcy let down his walls to let Elizabeth in is so very romantic.

And the conservancy is such a time period appropriate but romantic location for ODC couple to connect.

Jane gets to be kind & effective caring for the displaced tennets.

Mr. Bingley gets to grow up a bit and proves to be a great and generous landlord (even though he is just leasing the estate).

Even the Hursts come together.

Profile Image for Robin G..
72 reviews
September 8, 2025
The Briar Bargain by Melanie Rachel is another gem by a favorite author. Elizabeth and Jane are forced to spend more time at Netherfield due to flooding, and the additional time allows Elizabeth and Darcy to learn more about each other and work together as needed to help others impacted by the flooding.

I loved so much about this book. First, it was humorous, but also had several more serious moments. Next, some of our beloved side characters also had chances to shine. Finally, the feels between Elizabeth and Darcy were great. I highly recommend this book to all JAFF lovers.

I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
89 reviews1 follower
November 25, 2025
Very cute wholesome read, amazing banter between Darcy, Bingley and Hurst. Loved the Bennet girls and their relationship with their intended. I greatly appreciated the characterization of Jane and Bingley, they were more attentive to the world outside each other (Jane finally grew a spine of her own). Love this version of Darcy more charming ready to rescue the damsel in distress.

(My favorite character though will be the valet he made me LOL multiple)

The epilogue was particularly sweet, it made my heart ache
29 reviews
December 3, 2025
Another great book by Melanie! At times I couldn’t put my Kindle down to go to sleep because I needed to find out what happened next. This novel has lots of action that I will not spoil for you but will say that each adventure by Elizabeth and Darcy draws them closer. There is also a good amount of battling Caroline who is evil as always and is the main villain of this book along with the weather.
I highly recommend this book and will be adding it to my favorites list for reading again in the future. I can’t wait for the next novel by Melanie.
92 reviews1 follower
September 19, 2025
A little humor, a little angst ... and a lovely helping of romance.

I loved this rendition of P&P. Bingley and Jane with a bit more spine was quite welcome. Both were needed to counter a very nicely spiteful Caroline Bingley. Darcy and Elizabeth developed their relationship in fits and bursts, but Darcy quickly dropped his pride persona and things came about well. It was so nice to see ODC grow trust and mutual respect. Thoroughly enjoyed this.
195 reviews
October 3, 2025
A wonderful tale and a great ride!

Wow! I am so sorry this book had to end. I, gladly, lost a lot of sleep because I couldn’t put it down.
There is so much that happens and it is a well written, exciting story that builds up so beautifully to the love we all envy.
I don’t do spoilers but if Melanie Rachel sees this, I want to thank her for the ‘glimpse’ of a Mr Darcy, shirtless and soaking wet from his hair to his breeches. I am truly grateful.
Profile Image for Li Xin.
118 reviews1 follower
January 29, 2026
The characters' actions are somewhat repetitive. The relationship between ODC progresses a bit in one scene, but regresses in the next.
Before reading, I was looking forward to their witty banter, clever remarks and humor based on the comments. However, when I actually read it, I found that this was lacking. The jokes they made felt forced and not funny. The back-and-forth dialogue was somewhat dull and there was no spark of intelligence.
Profile Image for Tessa.
989 reviews36 followers
February 21, 2026
I enjoyed parts of this, but was really dissatisfied with the ending. Elizabeth got unnecessarily stupid. The woman who's been plotting against you and has been aweful to the servants said xyz? Well, let's just take that unquestioned at face value. And Darcy dropping down no problem from the dangerous precipice that Elizabeth didn't dare risk? No.

I did like the slow build up of Darcy and Elizabeth's trust for each other, but the ending just left a sour taste in my mouth.
123 reviews1 follower
September 20, 2025
This variation is good. Melanie Rachel writes well and her variations rarely disappoint. There is not much angst in this rather sedate story (with the exception of two dramatic developments). A lot of (good) dialogues, a nice study of characters (the Hurst in particular), a skillful epilogue : highly recommended.
80 reviews1 follower
September 20, 2025
Love Love, love love

This is a delightful tale. A Darcy who slowly (although not glacially) realizes ODG is for him. We have a very brave Elizabeth and a pretty nasty Caroline. Although no character is over the top which makes the story low angst, incredibly sweet, but not overwhelming with nonsense. I highly recommend this great story Melanie Rachel has done it again!
50 reviews
October 1, 2025
Ms Rachel is a wonderous storyteller

She writes a story that qraps around me like a warm blanket on a chilly night. The humour each of the characters show is full of feeling. Great editing. Good continuity and flow. I get nothing else done when I start one of her books. Definitely a good read!!
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