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Done for the Best: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Perhaps this concealment, this disguise, was beneath me… It is done, however, and it was done for the best. Elizabeth Bennet, walking in Kent the day after Mr Darcy’s proposal meets with an unfortunate mishap. A meeting with an adder has disastrous consequences for her and when she wakes from a period of unconsciousness, she has no memory at all of the last ten months of her life. To her complete shock she learns that she is engaged to a man called Darcy, a man she has no recollection of meeting before.
Darcy is shocked himself to realize that Elizabeth thinks she is engaged to him but his efforts to correct her misapprehension are thwarted by those around her who believe that to learn the truth will be detrimental to her recovery. As the days go by, Darcy and Elizabeth spend time together, reading and driving out around Kent, behaving as the lovers Darcy always dreamt they would be. To continue in the disguise, to forget the contentions and misunderstandings of their past proves an unbearable temptation.
When the worst happens and Elizabeth learns that not only did she refuse Darcy’s proposal, she hated him. What she learns seems completely incongruous with the man she has fallen in love with…and yet she simply does not know if she can forgive him for deceiving her.
Darcy is shocked himself to realize that Elizabeth thinks she is engaged to him but his efforts to correct her misapprehension are thwarted by those around her who believe that to learn the truth will be detrimental to her recovery. As the days go by, Darcy and Elizabeth spend time together, reading and driving out around Kent, behaving as the lovers Darcy always dreamt they would be. To continue in the disguise, to forget the contentions and misunderstandings of their past proves an unbearable temptation.
When the worst happens and Elizabeth learns that not only did she refuse Darcy’s proposal, she hated him. What she learns seems completely incongruous with the man she has fallen in love with…and yet she simply does not know if she can forgive him for deceiving her.
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Published June 27, 2025
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July 1, 2025
Done For the Best—done just right.
Done for the Best by Amy D’Orazio drew me in immediately and didn’t let go until ‘The End’. Elizabeth awakens at Hunsford parsonage after being bitten by a snake and becoming very ill with fever—her last ten months are a blank, and is informed that she’s engaged to Darcy. It’s not his doing—he’s just trying to protect her recovery—but Colonel Fitzwilliam’s unintentional mix-up, believing she’d accepted Darcy’s first proposal, and doctor’s orders not to give Elizabeth any shock puts Darcy in a tough spot, keeping up the pretense, and ‘done for the best’.
Their time together at Hunsford is so sweet. Elizabeth is softer than in many variations—a bit lost and more vulnerable because of her illness. And Darcy—so careful and protective—finally experiences the kind of relationship he’s always longed for with her. But the truth is always there in the background waiting. Amy D’Orazio always includes an element of angst, so you expect a hammer will fall at any moment to ruin everything. When the truth comes out, it’s painful for both.
Elizabeth breaks off the engagement, stung by Darcy’s silence about their false betrothal, which shakes her faith in him. Darcy’s anguish after her rejection is hard to watch. Elizabeth is deeply hurt, certain she can’t trust Darcy anymore. Over several chapters, you see her wrestling with her doubts, still drawn to him. When it seems all hope is lost she finally takes matters into her own hands and writes a letter—so raw and hopeful, it made me cry. Don’t I almost always? Amy D’Orazio writes books that always make you feel something and pull you in—she sure knows how to grab my heart!
Wickham plays his usual slimy enough part—and Lord Saye, everyone’s favourite recurring off-canon D’Orazio character, uses his cheeky wit and charm to ‘help’ those he cares for in order to get his way and engineer happy endings.
I usually want an epilogue, but this ending was perfect and didn’t need one. Done for the Best pulled me into Darcy and Elizabeth’s sweet romance, then broke my heart when it unraveled—Elizabeth’s letter is pure JAFF magic and leads to the perfect happily ever after. Such a great, emotional read from an author I adore. Can’t wait for the audiobook!
Highly recommend.
Kisses only.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
July 1, 2025 - Audiobook
I really enjoy this narrator, Simon Alison. He has a velvety voice, smooth and soothing—like melted chocloate that leaves a lasting impression. He’s a keeper.
Done for the Best by Amy D’Orazio drew me in immediately and didn’t let go until ‘The End’. Elizabeth awakens at Hunsford parsonage after being bitten by a snake and becoming very ill with fever—her last ten months are a blank, and is informed that she’s engaged to Darcy. It’s not his doing—he’s just trying to protect her recovery—but Colonel Fitzwilliam’s unintentional mix-up, believing she’d accepted Darcy’s first proposal, and doctor’s orders not to give Elizabeth any shock puts Darcy in a tough spot, keeping up the pretense, and ‘done for the best’.
Their time together at Hunsford is so sweet. Elizabeth is softer than in many variations—a bit lost and more vulnerable because of her illness. And Darcy—so careful and protective—finally experiences the kind of relationship he’s always longed for with her. But the truth is always there in the background waiting. Amy D’Orazio always includes an element of angst, so you expect a hammer will fall at any moment to ruin everything. When the truth comes out, it’s painful for both.
Elizabeth breaks off the engagement, stung by Darcy’s silence about their false betrothal, which shakes her faith in him. Darcy’s anguish after her rejection is hard to watch. Elizabeth is deeply hurt, certain she can’t trust Darcy anymore. Over several chapters, you see her wrestling with her doubts, still drawn to him. When it seems all hope is lost she finally takes matters into her own hands and writes a letter—so raw and hopeful, it made me cry. Don’t I almost always? Amy D’Orazio writes books that always make you feel something and pull you in—she sure knows how to grab my heart!
Wickham plays his usual slimy enough part—and Lord Saye, everyone’s favourite recurring off-canon D’Orazio character, uses his cheeky wit and charm to ‘help’ those he cares for in order to get his way and engineer happy endings.
I usually want an epilogue, but this ending was perfect and didn’t need one. Done for the Best pulled me into Darcy and Elizabeth’s sweet romance, then broke my heart when it unraveled—Elizabeth’s letter is pure JAFF magic and leads to the perfect happily ever after. Such a great, emotional read from an author I adore. Can’t wait for the audiobook!
Highly recommend.
Kisses only.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
July 1, 2025 - Audiobook
I really enjoy this narrator, Simon Alison. He has a velvety voice, smooth and soothing—like melted chocloate that leaves a lasting impression. He’s a keeper.
June 30, 2025
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
Ms. D'Orazio has added a colorful character in her Pride and Prejudice stories with so much charisma that he steals every scene in which he appears, including the ones with Darcy and/or Elizabeth. As anyone familiar with this author's previous books has already guessed, I'm speaking of the flamboyant, supremely confident Lord Saye, who is Darcy's annoying cousin as well as Colonel Fitzwilliam's older brother. I'm not complaining-- far from it. Just stating a fact.
The plot here starts with an amnesia trope: very early the morning after Elizabeth vehemently refused Darcy's marriage proposal, she takes a long walk in the countryside and is bitten by a venomous snake, an adder. Darcy finds her, but her life hangs in the balance for days. When her fever finally breaks and she regains consciousness, she has lost all memories of the previous year.
Colonel Fitwilliam had learned Darcy proposed marriage to her and assumes she must have accepted, which he mentions to Charlotte Collins. Mrs. Bennet comes to Hunsford to help nurse her daughter, and one can imagine her ecstasy over her least favorite daughter's betrothal despite the ongoing concern for her health. Elizabeth is certainly amazed to awaken and find she is engaged to a man she has no recollection of even meeting. Darcy, who makes daily visits to learn how she is faring, at first intends to correct the misconception. Her doctor, however, strongly suggests that everyone avoid sharing any shocking or upsetting news, which he believes will cause a severe setback in her recovery.
As Elizabeth gets stronger, she and Darcy spend more time together. To his delight, their interactions are everything he'd hoped for when he decided to propose despite his increasing guilt over the deception.
This can't go on forever, of course, and everything goes off the rails between them once she learns the truth. Meantime, Bingley is miserably engaged to a friend of Caroline's and bitterly regretting having left Hertfordshire without exploring whether Jane Bennet loved him or not. He'd love to break things off with his shrew of a betrothed, but he has no honorable way to back out.
Enter Lord Saye to fix things for both Darcy and Bingley (when he isn't making things worse). 'Nuff said.
Ms. D'Orazio's writing is always stellar, and it is again here. The chemistry between Darcy and Elizabeth is off the charts as they enjoy the wonderful courtship they might have had sans pride and prejudice. And Saye continues to evolve and delight. Please, Ms. D'Orazio, never stop including him in your variations!
While I appreciate that this story doesn't employ the (vastly overused) knock-on-the-head trope to cause Elizabeth's amnesia, I believe an adder's venom may result in loss of consciousness and/or confusion if the victim goes into anaphylactic shock, but I don't think it's known to directly cause apoplexy or amnesia. I admit my knowledge on the subject is limited. However, at the most, it's highly unlikely that Elizabeth's amnesia would be caused by a snake bite.
Also, I wasn't convinced that Elizabeth would be so unforgiving when Darcy had a perfectly reasonable explanation for not admitting sooner that she had refused him, especially when she still loves him AND the Mr. Darcy she knows is far different to the one at Netherfield she's been told about but has no personal memory of. While I concede that her heightened emotions as she continues to recover make her more easily agitated, it still bugged me.
Having said that, my reservations about these two plot details don't bother me enough to knock my rating down a full star. Especially when Lord Saye is allowed such a pivotal role here.
Content is clean but steamy.
Ms. D'Orazio has added a colorful character in her Pride and Prejudice stories with so much charisma that he steals every scene in which he appears, including the ones with Darcy and/or Elizabeth. As anyone familiar with this author's previous books has already guessed, I'm speaking of the flamboyant, supremely confident Lord Saye, who is Darcy's annoying cousin as well as Colonel Fitzwilliam's older brother. I'm not complaining-- far from it. Just stating a fact.
The plot here starts with an amnesia trope: very early the morning after Elizabeth vehemently refused Darcy's marriage proposal, she takes a long walk in the countryside and is bitten by a venomous snake, an adder. Darcy finds her, but her life hangs in the balance for days. When her fever finally breaks and she regains consciousness, she has lost all memories of the previous year.
Colonel Fitwilliam had learned Darcy proposed marriage to her and assumes she must have accepted, which he mentions to Charlotte Collins. Mrs. Bennet comes to Hunsford to help nurse her daughter, and one can imagine her ecstasy over her least favorite daughter's betrothal despite the ongoing concern for her health. Elizabeth is certainly amazed to awaken and find she is engaged to a man she has no recollection of even meeting. Darcy, who makes daily visits to learn how she is faring, at first intends to correct the misconception. Her doctor, however, strongly suggests that everyone avoid sharing any shocking or upsetting news, which he believes will cause a severe setback in her recovery.
As Elizabeth gets stronger, she and Darcy spend more time together. To his delight, their interactions are everything he'd hoped for when he decided to propose despite his increasing guilt over the deception.
This can't go on forever, of course, and everything goes off the rails between them once she learns the truth. Meantime, Bingley is miserably engaged to a friend of Caroline's and bitterly regretting having left Hertfordshire without exploring whether Jane Bennet loved him or not. He'd love to break things off with his shrew of a betrothed, but he has no honorable way to back out.
Enter Lord Saye to fix things for both Darcy and Bingley (when he isn't making things worse). 'Nuff said.
Ms. D'Orazio's writing is always stellar, and it is again here. The chemistry between Darcy and Elizabeth is off the charts as they enjoy the wonderful courtship they might have had sans pride and prejudice. And Saye continues to evolve and delight. Please, Ms. D'Orazio, never stop including him in your variations!
While I appreciate that this story doesn't employ the (vastly overused) knock-on-the-head trope to cause Elizabeth's amnesia, I believe an adder's venom may result in loss of consciousness and/or confusion if the victim goes into anaphylactic shock, but I don't think it's known to directly cause apoplexy or amnesia. I admit my knowledge on the subject is limited. However, at the most, it's highly unlikely that Elizabeth's amnesia would be caused by a snake bite.
Also, I wasn't convinced that Elizabeth would be so unforgiving when Darcy had a perfectly reasonable explanation for not admitting sooner that she had refused him, especially when she still loves him AND the Mr. Darcy she knows is far different to the one at Netherfield she's been told about but has no personal memory of. While I concede that her heightened emotions as she continues to recover make her more easily agitated, it still bugged me.
Having said that, my reservations about these two plot details don't bother me enough to knock my rating down a full star. Especially when Lord Saye is allowed such a pivotal role here.
Content is clean but steamy.
May 15, 2025
Trust takes years to build, seconds to break, and forever to repair. — Author Unknown
What is “done for the best” that creates a breakdown of trust?
Elizabeth Bennet has suffered an injury (snakebite) and lost part of her memories, including her entire acquaintance with the Netherfield party – Bingleys, Hursts, and Darcys, not to mention Mr. Collins, Lady Catherine and Anne de Bourgh.
Complicating the matter is the fact the injury occurs the morning following Fitzwilliam Darcy’s rejected proposal of marriage. Colonel Fitzwilliam was aware of Darcy’s interest, but, not knowing the outcome, he speculates with others and the belief is born that Elizabeth and Darcy are betrothed.
In her confusion, Elizabeth sees Darcy’s concern and problem-solving care. She believes what she is told: that Darcy had proposed and been accepted despite their quarrel on that evening. Now she accepts his courtship gladly. She falls in love.
Quote from the book: ‘Disguise of every sort is my abhorrence’. The memory of his own voice, rich with arrogance and self-importance, taunted him.
How does a man who believes that statement manage to live a lie?
Quote from the book: The words of the doctor returned to him: ‘No news to shock her system. She is in a highly delicate state’.
What might the news that, no, they were not engaged, do to her?
Trust your instincts and make judgments on what your heart tells you. — David Gemmell
Darcy’s guilt increases in this scene:
She paused, an enchanting pink blush rising on her cheeks. More quietly, she said, “I seem to recall you saying that you ‘ardently admired and loved’ me. When I heard you speaking to Dr. Hughes outside of my bedchamber, the sound of your voice seemed to stir that recollection. Is it faithful … that memory?”
What is that old saying? “The Truth will out.”
Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted with important matters. — Albert Einstein
Would a story from Amy D’Orazio be complete without a scheme from everyone’s favorite older brother? Viscount Saye enters the story, determined to attend an as-yet-unscheduled house party at Netherfield Park. He must release a friend from an entanglement, and calls upon his favorites to achieve his goals. Of course, Saye has his own agenda.
I always love that boy!
Consistency is the foundation of trust. Either keep your promises or do not make them. — Roy T. Bennett
What is “done for the best” that creates a breakdown of trust?
Elizabeth Bennet has suffered an injury (snakebite) and lost part of her memories, including her entire acquaintance with the Netherfield party – Bingleys, Hursts, and Darcys, not to mention Mr. Collins, Lady Catherine and Anne de Bourgh.
Complicating the matter is the fact the injury occurs the morning following Fitzwilliam Darcy’s rejected proposal of marriage. Colonel Fitzwilliam was aware of Darcy’s interest, but, not knowing the outcome, he speculates with others and the belief is born that Elizabeth and Darcy are betrothed.
In her confusion, Elizabeth sees Darcy’s concern and problem-solving care. She believes what she is told: that Darcy had proposed and been accepted despite their quarrel on that evening. Now she accepts his courtship gladly. She falls in love.
Quote from the book: ‘Disguise of every sort is my abhorrence’. The memory of his own voice, rich with arrogance and self-importance, taunted him.
How does a man who believes that statement manage to live a lie?
Quote from the book: The words of the doctor returned to him: ‘No news to shock her system. She is in a highly delicate state’.
What might the news that, no, they were not engaged, do to her?
Trust your instincts and make judgments on what your heart tells you. — David Gemmell
Darcy’s guilt increases in this scene:
She paused, an enchanting pink blush rising on her cheeks. More quietly, she said, “I seem to recall you saying that you ‘ardently admired and loved’ me. When I heard you speaking to Dr. Hughes outside of my bedchamber, the sound of your voice seemed to stir that recollection. Is it faithful … that memory?”
What is that old saying? “The Truth will out.”
Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted with important matters. — Albert Einstein
Would a story from Amy D’Orazio be complete without a scheme from everyone’s favorite older brother? Viscount Saye enters the story, determined to attend an as-yet-unscheduled house party at Netherfield Park. He must release a friend from an entanglement, and calls upon his favorites to achieve his goals. Of course, Saye has his own agenda.
I always love that boy!
Consistency is the foundation of trust. Either keep your promises or do not make them. — Roy T. Bennett
April 17, 2025
4.5* rounded up.
I thoroughly enjoy Ms. D'Orazio's writing, and she has written some of my favourite stories. In the books that I have read, I have found the dialogue witty, the premises novel, and her characters singular (to wit, Lord Saye and his lovable sidekick, Florizel). However, I haven't read all of her books due to my cowardly attitude toward too much angst in the summaries of certain ones.
Done for the Best is in line with the stories that I have read, and, for me, it was low angst, although there were portions of the story that were quite nail-biting. This Elizabeth has a naivete that is not often seen. Her injuries and amnesia of ten months of her life have diminished her confidence, and the deception of the people surrounding her has made her unsure of whom to trust. Despite her innocence and uncertainty, her kind and generous heart remains, thus rendering her ripe for further attacks from snakes of all types.
Adding to her journey to recovery are Darcy's steadfastness, Saye's comic relief, flashy curricles, and trips to Brighton. This book was fast-paced, and I heartily recommend it. I only wish that their "happily ever after" was further elucidated so that I could bask in their happiness for a few more pages!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I thoroughly enjoy Ms. D'Orazio's writing, and she has written some of my favourite stories. In the books that I have read, I have found the dialogue witty, the premises novel, and her characters singular (to wit, Lord Saye and his lovable sidekick, Florizel). However, I haven't read all of her books due to my cowardly attitude toward too much angst in the summaries of certain ones.
Done for the Best is in line with the stories that I have read, and, for me, it was low angst, although there were portions of the story that were quite nail-biting. This Elizabeth has a naivete that is not often seen. Her injuries and amnesia of ten months of her life have diminished her confidence, and the deception of the people surrounding her has made her unsure of whom to trust. Despite her innocence and uncertainty, her kind and generous heart remains, thus rendering her ripe for further attacks from snakes of all types.
Adding to her journey to recovery are Darcy's steadfastness, Saye's comic relief, flashy curricles, and trips to Brighton. This book was fast-paced, and I heartily recommend it. I only wish that their "happily ever after" was further elucidated so that I could bask in their happiness for a few more pages!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 16, 2025
I liked the idea of this story and there were some nice scenes in it, but overall it just didn't really grab me and it took until the very last chapter for Elizabeth and Darcy to finally be on the same page. Not just as a figure of speech, but also literally: after the truth came out around page 130 they were rarely in the same room and apart from the few letters Darcy sent (which Lizzy didn't read until much later), they rarely communicated with each other. I don't like it when the main couple has barely any interaction with each other.
What I also found a bit disappointing was that we don't see a lot of Lizzy falling in love with Darcy in the first place. A lot of the time they did spend together in Hunsford is summarized. And lastly there's the whole Wickham debacle. Girl, please. Use your brain. Really didn't like that part. Not my favorite book by Amy D'Orazio, unfortunately.
What I also found a bit disappointing was that we don't see a lot of Lizzy falling in love with Darcy in the first place. A lot of the time they did spend together in Hunsford is summarized. And lastly there's the whole Wickham debacle. Girl, please. Use your brain. Really didn't like that part. Not my favorite book by Amy D'Orazio, unfortunately.
May 17, 2025
3.5 rounded up to 4. Saye again saves the day for me. D’Orazio’s characterization of Darcy’s eldest cousin and his interactions with Darcy and Elizabeth are truly a delight to read.
Where it falls short is the thin plot and romance, which are rather formulaic and bland. We basically spend the whole book in suspended animation waiting for Elizabeth to come to her senses, literally and figuratively and choose Darcy. Darcy is singularly devoted throughout but Elizabeth’s level of attachment never quite reaches his, and is told more than shown.
Elizabeth falling for Wickham’s charms AFTER she is told about his history was a really disappointing contrivance that made me question why I was rooting for Darcy to win her.
Where it falls short is the thin plot and romance, which are rather formulaic and bland. We basically spend the whole book in suspended animation waiting for Elizabeth to come to her senses, literally and figuratively and choose Darcy. Darcy is singularly devoted throughout but Elizabeth’s level of attachment never quite reaches his, and is told more than shown.
Elizabeth falling for Wickham’s charms AFTER she is told about his history was a really disappointing contrivance that made me question why I was rooting for Darcy to win her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2025
I have read most of Amy D’Orazio’s books, and something I appreciate about her style is the pacing. The events in this variation are exciting with just the right amount of angst. In this story, you can predict that Darcy will pay for his omission of his not actually being engaged to Miss Elizabeth Bennet. The tension and guilt Darcy feels is palpable, yet the short courtship in Kent is rather sweet. No doubt there has to be a turning point, which turns Elizabeth into a shrew and Darcy a beggar. Something I did not see coming, however, was Elizabeth’s own blunder/betrayal (*hint* it involves Wickham).
After completing the book, I did like that both E&D had to err and learn a lesson before reaching their HEA. Often, in these variations, we see Darcy being the one that has to undergo prodigious change, but here Elizabeth too is left seeking contrition. Like her other works, this one had some funny lines coming from Mrs. Bennet and Saye. I have no doubt that this will be one of the most popular variations of 2025.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After completing the book, I did like that both E&D had to err and learn a lesson before reaching their HEA. Often, in these variations, we see Darcy being the one that has to undergo prodigious change, but here Elizabeth too is left seeking contrition. Like her other works, this one had some funny lines coming from Mrs. Bennet and Saye. I have no doubt that this will be one of the most popular variations of 2025.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 3, 2025
Interesting
The day after the infamous proposal at Hunsford Parsonage, Elizabeth is bitten by an adder on her morning walk, leading to weeks of recovery, and the loss of 10 months of memory. She doesn't remember Darcy, or their contentious relationship. Colonel Fitzwilliam mistakenly spreads words that Darcy and Elizabeth are engaged, so Elizabeth feels she must get to know this fiance she has no memory of, and she quickly falls in love with Darcy. He's prevented from telling her the truth, that they're not engaged, by the physician, who doesn't want to shock her during her recovery. Of course, the truth eventually comes out, leading to feelings of betrayal for Elizabeth.
I like this author. She's an automatic purchase for me. This is one of her less stellar efforts. Maybe it's because Elizabeth is ill and confused for much of the story, and isn't really the Elizabeth we admire so much. I like the recurring character of Viscount Saye, Darcy's cousin, as he's always good for a laugh. His insertion, however, feels contrived and awkward, and he shows his cruel streak in this book. Many of the situations felt contrived.
The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it, but not highly, and with reservations.
The day after the infamous proposal at Hunsford Parsonage, Elizabeth is bitten by an adder on her morning walk, leading to weeks of recovery, and the loss of 10 months of memory. She doesn't remember Darcy, or their contentious relationship. Colonel Fitzwilliam mistakenly spreads words that Darcy and Elizabeth are engaged, so Elizabeth feels she must get to know this fiance she has no memory of, and she quickly falls in love with Darcy. He's prevented from telling her the truth, that they're not engaged, by the physician, who doesn't want to shock her during her recovery. Of course, the truth eventually comes out, leading to feelings of betrayal for Elizabeth.
I like this author. She's an automatic purchase for me. This is one of her less stellar efforts. Maybe it's because Elizabeth is ill and confused for much of the story, and isn't really the Elizabeth we admire so much. I like the recurring character of Viscount Saye, Darcy's cousin, as he's always good for a laugh. His insertion, however, feels contrived and awkward, and he shows his cruel streak in this book. Many of the situations felt contrived.
The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it, but not highly, and with reservations.
July 7, 2025
I'm a bit confused as to how an adder bite caused retrograde amnesia as it's not an usual symptom. But I am willing to overlook that because otherwise it was a great story.
August 21, 2025
Excellent narration of a lovely story. I enjoy Say so much, I forget he wasn’t a cannon character. But, Elizabeth was more stubborn than usual.
May 29, 2025
This is an author whose stories I immediately put on my list to borrow from KU. I have read most of her JAFF stories. I especially like those which include Saye, Darcy's cousin and the Colonel's older brother.
In this story Darcy is facing a "damned if I do, damned if I don't" situation. In Hunsford Elizabeth has lost memories of almost the whole last year due to a snake bite. So when the Colonel learns that Darcy had proposed to Elizabeth, he assumes she accepted (After all what lady would not accept such from him?) and shares that "fact" with those caring for her. The doctor won't allow Darcy to correct that error and warns that anything which might upset her is not to be shared with her. Darcy does various things, i.e. hire two nurses to tend to her around the clock, to aid in her recovery.
It was charming reading of how much "in love" this couple was while she recuperates, even as Darcy wrestles with the fact that she was so adamant that "he was the last man in the world she would ever marry". Of course, when she finds out the truth, she immediately reverses course and adds that now she "cannot trust him" to the list of behaviors she hates about him.
We do have familiar characters with parts in this story: Lady C., Wickham, Charlotte Collins, the other Bennets (with small parts), etc. I found it interesting that Elizabeth goes off to Brighton to chaperone Lydia when Mr. Bennet refuses to keep Lydia home.
I highly recommend this story. Some angst...but not overwhelming.
In this story Darcy is facing a "damned if I do, damned if I don't" situation. In Hunsford Elizabeth has lost memories of almost the whole last year due to a snake bite. So when the Colonel learns that Darcy had proposed to Elizabeth, he assumes she accepted (After all what lady would not accept such from him?) and shares that "fact" with those caring for her. The doctor won't allow Darcy to correct that error and warns that anything which might upset her is not to be shared with her. Darcy does various things, i.e. hire two nurses to tend to her around the clock, to aid in her recovery.
It was charming reading of how much "in love" this couple was while she recuperates, even as Darcy wrestles with the fact that she was so adamant that "he was the last man in the world she would ever marry". Of course, when she finds out the truth, she immediately reverses course and adds that now she "cannot trust him" to the list of behaviors she hates about him.
We do have familiar characters with parts in this story: Lady C., Wickham, Charlotte Collins, the other Bennets (with small parts), etc. I found it interesting that Elizabeth goes off to Brighton to chaperone Lydia when Mr. Bennet refuses to keep Lydia home.
I highly recommend this story. Some angst...but not overwhelming.
June 11, 2025
I almost gave this fewer stars, because I felt so frustrated with Elizabeth throughout the story. But she was dealing with a lot, and I appreciated how the author handled the aftermath of her ordeal. Then I actually looked up the topic of strokes after venomous snakebites, and it's a real thing.
In this variation on Pride and Prejudice, the morning after Darcy's disastrous proposal at Hunsford, Lizzy is bitten by an adder while walking in Rosings Park. She's been missing for hours when Darcy realizes where she might have gone, and finds her, unconscious and with a snake bite on her leg. Her recovery is difficult, and she's lost her memory of the past 10 months, the entire time she's known the Netherfield party or any of the militia officers. She's dealing with a clean slate where Mr. Darcy is concerned, and finds herself falling in love. Meanwhile Darcy knows he needs to tell her the truth of her refusal of him, but at a time and in a manner that won't be detrimental to her recovery.
There's a lot going on here, but it's handled with the author's usual skill and sensitivity, and makes for an intriguing and unusual variation on Jane Austen's classic. Oh, and I loved the comic relief of Lord Saye's part in this story. And poor Bingley, what a mess he made of things after leaving Netherfield. Sigh.
In this variation on Pride and Prejudice, the morning after Darcy's disastrous proposal at Hunsford, Lizzy is bitten by an adder while walking in Rosings Park. She's been missing for hours when Darcy realizes where she might have gone, and finds her, unconscious and with a snake bite on her leg. Her recovery is difficult, and she's lost her memory of the past 10 months, the entire time she's known the Netherfield party or any of the militia officers. She's dealing with a clean slate where Mr. Darcy is concerned, and finds herself falling in love. Meanwhile Darcy knows he needs to tell her the truth of her refusal of him, but at a time and in a manner that won't be detrimental to her recovery.
There's a lot going on here, but it's handled with the author's usual skill and sensitivity, and makes for an intriguing and unusual variation on Jane Austen's classic. Oh, and I loved the comic relief of Lord Saye's part in this story. And poor Bingley, what a mess he made of things after leaving Netherfield. Sigh.
May 23, 2025
One of the Best
Amy has written another wonderful ode to ODC and Jane Austen with this novel. It is by turns nerve wracking, jubilant, tear inducing, and funny. I couldn’t put the book down once I started and finished it in nearly one sitting (let’s be honest, I had insomnia and couldn’t stop thinking of what I read before trying to sleep that I sat up until the sun was up and I finished the book). Anyone who love both Elizabeth and Darcy being vulnerable and very much in love but dealing with miscommunication will enjoy this novel. Additionally, anyone who adores the irreverent Lord Saye from Amy’s other stories will be excited to read about him again here.
I love all of Amy’s novels and can’t wait to read her next offering. I purchase each of her novels as they come out and I believe each one of her books are on my favorites list for reading again in the future.
Amy has written another wonderful ode to ODC and Jane Austen with this novel. It is by turns nerve wracking, jubilant, tear inducing, and funny. I couldn’t put the book down once I started and finished it in nearly one sitting (let’s be honest, I had insomnia and couldn’t stop thinking of what I read before trying to sleep that I sat up until the sun was up and I finished the book). Anyone who love both Elizabeth and Darcy being vulnerable and very much in love but dealing with miscommunication will enjoy this novel. Additionally, anyone who adores the irreverent Lord Saye from Amy’s other stories will be excited to read about him again here.
I love all of Amy’s novels and can’t wait to read her next offering. I purchase each of her novels as they come out and I believe each one of her books are on my favorites list for reading again in the future.
May 23, 2025
An excellent book
The mood of this book varies greatly, giving us a glimpse of what might be in Darcy’s courtship in Kent, to the almost chaotic anger when Elizabeth recovers her memory, the tension at Brighton to the humour of any scene involving Sayed and his manipulations of society. Thus, we are taken on a journey with a cast of the usual suspects, plus a few new ones. Characters are according to canon and are delightfully depicted. Darcy’s fidelity is rock solid throughout the narrative, although it takes Elizabeth some time to have faith in him. And it is satisfying to read a novel that doesn’t need editing for grammar or typos. Highly recommended.
The mood of this book varies greatly, giving us a glimpse of what might be in Darcy’s courtship in Kent, to the almost chaotic anger when Elizabeth recovers her memory, the tension at Brighton to the humour of any scene involving Sayed and his manipulations of society. Thus, we are taken on a journey with a cast of the usual suspects, plus a few new ones. Characters are according to canon and are delightfully depicted. Darcy’s fidelity is rock solid throughout the narrative, although it takes Elizabeth some time to have faith in him. And it is satisfying to read a novel that doesn’t need editing for grammar or typos. Highly recommended.
May 20, 2025
Darcy fights for Elizabeth
I can't say I was interested in reading an amnesia and fake engagement story. However, it's D'Orazio. I don't know what it is, but she has a way of capturing my attention.
What I loved:
- The story didn't feel forced.
- The emotions were justified. A couple of scenes caught me off guard, so I had to reread them to make sure what was said was said. Ouch!
- Darcy doesn't give up at the first rejection. He doesn't leave everything to chance, makes himself vulnerable, and woos Elizabeth.
- Elizabeth has her share of foolishness.
- Last, but not least, Saye did his job. Well done.
*Sidenote: I applaud D'Orazio for creating Jane and Elizabeth as practical in their marriage search. Did they fall in love? Yes. However, I think it's even sweeter when you're not looking for it and it appears.
I can't say I was interested in reading an amnesia and fake engagement story. However, it's D'Orazio. I don't know what it is, but she has a way of capturing my attention.
What I loved:
- The story didn't feel forced.
- The emotions were justified. A couple of scenes caught me off guard, so I had to reread them to make sure what was said was said. Ouch!
- Darcy doesn't give up at the first rejection. He doesn't leave everything to chance, makes himself vulnerable, and woos Elizabeth.
- Elizabeth has her share of foolishness.
- Last, but not least, Saye did his job. Well done.
*Sidenote: I applaud D'Orazio for creating Jane and Elizabeth as practical in their marriage search. Did they fall in love? Yes. However, I think it's even sweeter when you're not looking for it and it appears.
July 10, 2025
Status: Read July 7-10, 2025 via audible edition
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)
My Library Notes:
Done for the Best: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
by Amy D'Orazio, Simon Alison (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 8 pages
Published June 27, 2025 by Quills & Quartos Publishing (first published May 16, 2025)
ASIN: B0FFPC2C2C
Perhaps this concealment, this disguise, was beneath me… It is done, however, and it was done for the best.
Elizabeth Bennet, walking in Kent the day after Mr Darcy’s proposal meets with an unfortunate mishap. A meeting with an adder has disastrous consequences for her and when she wakes from a period of unconsciousness, she has no memory at all of the last ten months of her life. To her complete shock she learns that she is engaged to a man called Darcy, a man she has no recollection of meeting before.
Darcy is shocked himself to realize that Elizabeth thinks she is engaged to him but his efforts to correct her misapprehension are thwarted by those around her who believe that to learn the truth will be detrimental to her recovery. As the days go by, Darcy and Elizabeth spend time together, reading and driving out around Kent, behaving as the lovers Darcy always dreamt they would be. To continue in the disguise, to forget the contentions and misunderstandings of their past proves an unbearable temptation.
When Elizabeth learns that not only did she refuse Darcy's proposal, she hated him. What she discovers seems completely incongruous with the man she has fallen in love with...and yet she simply does not know if she can forgive him for deceiving her.
Listening Length: 7 hours and 53 minutes
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)
My Library Notes:
Done for the Best: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
by Amy D'Orazio, Simon Alison (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 8 pages
Published June 27, 2025 by Quills & Quartos Publishing (first published May 16, 2025)
ASIN: B0FFPC2C2C
Perhaps this concealment, this disguise, was beneath me… It is done, however, and it was done for the best.
Elizabeth Bennet, walking in Kent the day after Mr Darcy’s proposal meets with an unfortunate mishap. A meeting with an adder has disastrous consequences for her and when she wakes from a period of unconsciousness, she has no memory at all of the last ten months of her life. To her complete shock she learns that she is engaged to a man called Darcy, a man she has no recollection of meeting before.
Darcy is shocked himself to realize that Elizabeth thinks she is engaged to him but his efforts to correct her misapprehension are thwarted by those around her who believe that to learn the truth will be detrimental to her recovery. As the days go by, Darcy and Elizabeth spend time together, reading and driving out around Kent, behaving as the lovers Darcy always dreamt they would be. To continue in the disguise, to forget the contentions and misunderstandings of their past proves an unbearable temptation.
When Elizabeth learns that not only did she refuse Darcy's proposal, she hated him. What she discovers seems completely incongruous with the man she has fallen in love with...and yet she simply does not know if she can forgive him for deceiving her.
Listening Length: 7 hours and 53 minutes
August 16, 2025
Elizabeth doesn’t remember her entire experience with Darcy so they must get over their pride and prejudice in a new set of circumstances. They each misunderstand each other over and over with so much angst. The happily ever after, when it arrives, is well deserved.
May 22, 2025
Still stanning for Saye
The Darcy/Lizzy tale was the weakest part of the plot. Her naïveté at a certain point confounded logic, and their storyline never quite recovers. Luckily, we have ample page time with Saye, as well as a Bingley facing an unusual predicament.
The Darcy/Lizzy tale was the weakest part of the plot. Her naïveté at a certain point confounded logic, and their storyline never quite recovers. Luckily, we have ample page time with Saye, as well as a Bingley facing an unusual predicament.
May 21, 2025
Was a 5 star read until Lizzy's stupidity regarding Wickham.
July 30, 2025
The day after she refused Darcy's proposal Elizabeth walks the woods of Kent. An encounter with a snake leaves her gravely ill and bereft of the memory of the last ten months. While recovering she also learns that she is betrothed to a Mr Darcy, a man she has never seen before.
Darcy is stunned to learn that Elizabeth thinks they are betrothed but concerns for her health keep him from revealing the truth.
As the days go on the couple comes to know each other better and Elizabeth slowly falls in love with the handsome gentleman.
But someday Elizabeth learns that she not only is not engaged to Darcy but that she despised him and rejected his proposal.
Will Elizabeth be able to forgive Darcy for his deception? Will Darcy be able to convince her of his deep love? And which one is the real Darcy, the selfish liar or the kind, thoughtful gentleman?
The book was very well written by the author Amy D’Orazio. I always enjoy her books very much. She has created some ever returning, unique side characters about whom I always love to read. Lord Saye is one of them. In this variation Lord Saye is in his elements, he is in the middle of the gossip making, he manipulates his relatives to his will, he lives out his eccentric tendencies but he also has a heart of gold and without his interference and guidance Darcy and Elizabeth would not have found there happily ever after.
Thanks to Lord Saye and the many conversations the other characters have with him there were many witty dialogue in this variation that caused me many laughing-out-loud moments. I love it when this happens.
Due to Elizabeth’s accident and the resulting amnesia Darcy gets a second chance to court her and this time he does it properly. I love how Elizabeth slowly falls for the handsome “stranger” and is more and more in love every day. I really like that Darcy considers her objections from her refusal of his proposal and works to change his attitude. Therefore Elizabeth's second encounter with Darcy is in some means really the encounter with a changed man.
I always love books where Darcy and Elizabeth have a real courtship and Darcy is wooing her the way she deserves. This is a book in which one can feel the love between ODC in every situation and interaction. You can feel this in their carefree days at Kent when Elizabeth is recovering but does not know that she formally despised Darcy.
Later the dominating feelings are anger, hurt, sadness and unrequited love. These are feelings that especially Elizabeth experiences, but later Darcy also feels this way. These feelings nearly keep them apart because they both, at the end, think that they have lost the love of the other. But fortunately Elizabeth is a brave girl and her daring act lets them finally speak with one another and clear the misunderstandings.
I really appreciate that Darcy is not actively deceiving Elizabeth by telling lies, he only does not tell the whole truth. The outcome may be nearly the same but for me that is an important difference because he does not go against his character. I can not imagine him telling falsehoods all the time but I can very well imagine him not telling particular facts to protect Elizabeth's health.
One of my favourite scenes was, by the by, Darcy seeking the help of the Gardiner girls to convince Elizabeth of his ongoing love. Such a sweet scene 😍
You may very well imagine that such a story needs a villain. And you may as well imagine that Wickham is eagerly waiting for his chance to use Elizabeth, who is not her usual, quick self and can't remember him from her first encounter, in his attempt to get money from Darcy. Fortunately, in the end, he is not successful but this adds some dramatic moments to the story and nearly causes the ultimate break between ODC. But you need to read for yourself.
If you like to know if Elizabeth falls in love with Darcy when she can't remember him and what she does after learning that she was never betrothed to him and that he did not tell the truth you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
_____
Addition for the audiobook:
The book was narrated by Simon Alison. I like his narration very much, he has an appealing voice that lets me enjoy the story even more. He doesn’t act while reading the characters but it was nevertheless a very pleasing and enjoyable performance. I’m looking forward to hearing him narrate more Pride and prejudice variations.
Darcy is stunned to learn that Elizabeth thinks they are betrothed but concerns for her health keep him from revealing the truth.
As the days go on the couple comes to know each other better and Elizabeth slowly falls in love with the handsome gentleman.
But someday Elizabeth learns that she not only is not engaged to Darcy but that she despised him and rejected his proposal.
Will Elizabeth be able to forgive Darcy for his deception? Will Darcy be able to convince her of his deep love? And which one is the real Darcy, the selfish liar or the kind, thoughtful gentleman?
The book was very well written by the author Amy D’Orazio. I always enjoy her books very much. She has created some ever returning, unique side characters about whom I always love to read. Lord Saye is one of them. In this variation Lord Saye is in his elements, he is in the middle of the gossip making, he manipulates his relatives to his will, he lives out his eccentric tendencies but he also has a heart of gold and without his interference and guidance Darcy and Elizabeth would not have found there happily ever after.
Thanks to Lord Saye and the many conversations the other characters have with him there were many witty dialogue in this variation that caused me many laughing-out-loud moments. I love it when this happens.
Due to Elizabeth’s accident and the resulting amnesia Darcy gets a second chance to court her and this time he does it properly. I love how Elizabeth slowly falls for the handsome “stranger” and is more and more in love every day. I really like that Darcy considers her objections from her refusal of his proposal and works to change his attitude. Therefore Elizabeth's second encounter with Darcy is in some means really the encounter with a changed man.
I always love books where Darcy and Elizabeth have a real courtship and Darcy is wooing her the way she deserves. This is a book in which one can feel the love between ODC in every situation and interaction. You can feel this in their carefree days at Kent when Elizabeth is recovering but does not know that she formally despised Darcy.
Later the dominating feelings are anger, hurt, sadness and unrequited love. These are feelings that especially Elizabeth experiences, but later Darcy also feels this way. These feelings nearly keep them apart because they both, at the end, think that they have lost the love of the other. But fortunately Elizabeth is a brave girl and her daring act lets them finally speak with one another and clear the misunderstandings.
I really appreciate that Darcy is not actively deceiving Elizabeth by telling lies, he only does not tell the whole truth. The outcome may be nearly the same but for me that is an important difference because he does not go against his character. I can not imagine him telling falsehoods all the time but I can very well imagine him not telling particular facts to protect Elizabeth's health.
One of my favourite scenes was, by the by, Darcy seeking the help of the Gardiner girls to convince Elizabeth of his ongoing love. Such a sweet scene 😍
You may very well imagine that such a story needs a villain. And you may as well imagine that Wickham is eagerly waiting for his chance to use Elizabeth, who is not her usual, quick self and can't remember him from her first encounter, in his attempt to get money from Darcy. Fortunately, in the end, he is not successful but this adds some dramatic moments to the story and nearly causes the ultimate break between ODC. But you need to read for yourself.
If you like to know if Elizabeth falls in love with Darcy when she can't remember him and what she does after learning that she was never betrothed to him and that he did not tell the truth you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
_____
Addition for the audiobook:
The book was narrated by Simon Alison. I like his narration very much, he has an appealing voice that lets me enjoy the story even more. He doesn’t act while reading the characters but it was nevertheless a very pleasing and enjoyable performance. I’m looking forward to hearing him narrate more Pride and prejudice variations.
July 10, 2025
Intriguing, yet bordering on sensory overload.
I dug the concept and how it played out, but man, the drama between the main characters got a bit over the top. As usual, the Viscount was awesome, and I totally loved the part Bingley got to do.
I dug the concept and how it played out, but man, the drama between the main characters got a bit over the top. As usual, the Viscount was awesome, and I totally loved the part Bingley got to do.
July 26, 2025
I liked this a lot ... a little bit of a reverse "While You Were Sleeping" premise, as Elizabeth loses her memory of the past 10+ months (all of meeting Darcy/Bingley/Collins) and awakens to learn that she is engaged to Mr. Darcy (due to a misunderstanding). Darcy doesn't feel like he can correct things in her still fragile state, and the relationship of the "engaged" couple seems to be quite positive. This twist occurs after the disastrous proposal, before Lizzie gets a chance to read Darcy's letter. But wipe the memory and that letter isn't really needed (although it does pop up to cause trouble ...).
Without the cannon resolution, Bingley has got himself engaged to a woman he really doesn't want to be with, but can't back out. There's a new character ... Darcy's cousin/Fitz's older brother, Lord Sayed, who is quite the comic relief. The name/character felt familiar, and he had been in another of this author's works that I read and enjoyed (Wits&Wagers). We even get one chapter from his POV (Ch33, with the header "That's What He Sayed" ... and I must admit that "The Office" witticism caught me off guard and made me laugh out loud).
Most of the book is 3rd person, shifting from Darcy's to Elizabeth's overview (and then the one chapter from Sayed's POV). 35 chapters, and they had headers. They were included on the Table of Contents page for the Kindle copy (included in Kindle Unlimited) but not in the audio (included in AudiblePlus). The headers don't totally give a full indication of what's in each chapter, but still reading over them after the fact, gave some memory nudges and probably enough that if I was looking to re-read a specific portion, I could find it.
Despite the convenience of selective amnesia, and the timing of finding the letter requiring explanation, this was a fun plot twist. I didn't quite get into the ending with Wickham, that all felt a little over the top.
Overall, very enjoyable! I'm not sure how much I'll really remember, especially with all the JAFF out there and how many I'm reading close together this month (generally I space them apart). I like the cover image ... the title, I didn't really feel the connection, although a Kindle search found the phrase used several times at key points, so ... okay. I really liked the narrator/Simon Alison, who I have heard before, but I felt even more impressed with the performance in this one.
Words I noted: perspicacious, renascent, contrariety
Without the cannon resolution, Bingley has got himself engaged to a woman he really doesn't want to be with, but can't back out. There's a new character ... Darcy's cousin/Fitz's older brother, Lord Sayed, who is quite the comic relief. The name/character felt familiar, and he had been in another of this author's works that I read and enjoyed (Wits&Wagers). We even get one chapter from his POV (Ch33, with the header "That's What He Sayed" ... and I must admit that "The Office" witticism caught me off guard and made me laugh out loud).
Most of the book is 3rd person, shifting from Darcy's to Elizabeth's overview (and then the one chapter from Sayed's POV). 35 chapters, and they had headers. They were included on the Table of Contents page for the Kindle copy (included in Kindle Unlimited) but not in the audio (included in AudiblePlus). The headers don't totally give a full indication of what's in each chapter, but still reading over them after the fact, gave some memory nudges and probably enough that if I was looking to re-read a specific portion, I could find it.
Despite the convenience of selective amnesia, and the timing of finding the letter requiring explanation, this was a fun plot twist. I didn't quite get into the ending with Wickham, that all felt a little over the top.
Overall, very enjoyable! I'm not sure how much I'll really remember, especially with all the JAFF out there and how many I'm reading close together this month (generally I space them apart). I like the cover image ... the title, I didn't really feel the connection, although a Kindle search found the phrase used several times at key points, so ... okay. I really liked the narrator/Simon Alison, who I have heard before, but I felt even more impressed with the performance in this one.
Words I noted: perspicacious, renascent, contrariety
August 11, 2025
3.5/5. Well-written and kept my attention throughout, but it's got a bit too much Sleepless in Seattle syndrome where the leads are barely around one another. They're together in Kent for the first 20%, then in London until 25%, meet briefly in Bath for like half an hour later on, and then don't meet in person again until 92%. I did like the pining of both characters for one another when they're apart, but I prefer more back and forth rapport rather than a relationship constantly steeped in big drama. Still, I think this book adds dimensions to Elizabeth that are interesting, even if the mistake she makes later in the book is basically braindead stupid (even if she admits to it being so, I found it kind of preposterous that it would happen at all). The author does a great job taking drama seriously and working through it organically step by step.
My biggest gripe besides that E and D are barely in each other's company has to do with some corner cutting with the setup--that Colonel Fitzwilliam would openly discuss Darcy's personal, private affairs with a neutral acquaintance (unlike the vague offhand comment he makes about Bingley in Austen) is pretty unbelievable. I do think this author works within a pretty consistently divergent Regency from Austen's where propriety is a full notch laxer than historical reality, so perhaps this criticism is just nitpicking and wouldn't bother someone else.
Some other minor points: I've liked Saye in other of the author's books but he felt particularly ramrodded into this one. The Bingley situation was interesting and one I'd never seen before. This Darcy at points felt a bit too pushy and desperate with his feelings, like he couldn't take no for an answer in a very not cool kind of way. He does give her space after begging, but the way his desperation manifested seemed a touch OOC to me.
Anyway, the book is solid but just shy of something I'd want to reread.
My biggest gripe besides that E and D are barely in each other's company has to do with some corner cutting with the setup--that Colonel Fitzwilliam would openly discuss Darcy's personal, private affairs with a neutral acquaintance (unlike the vague offhand comment he makes about Bingley in Austen) is pretty unbelievable. I do think this author works within a pretty consistently divergent Regency from Austen's where propriety is a full notch laxer than historical reality, so perhaps this criticism is just nitpicking and wouldn't bother someone else.
Some other minor points: I've liked Saye in other of the author's books but he felt particularly ramrodded into this one. The Bingley situation was interesting and one I'd never seen before. This Darcy at points felt a bit too pushy and desperate with his feelings, like he couldn't take no for an answer in a very not cool kind of way. He does give her space after begging, but the way his desperation manifested seemed a touch OOC to me.
Anyway, the book is solid but just shy of something I'd want to reread.
June 8, 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. This is a Pride and Prejudice variation. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a part of the ‘The Engaged to Mr. Darcy’ series. This is a closed door regency romance, moderate level of angst, and the romance tropes explored include fake engagement, mistaken identity, and amnesia.
Elizabeth Bennet, walking in Kent the day after Mr Darcy’s proposal meets with an unfortunate mishap. A meeting with an adder has disastrous consequences for her and when she wakes from a period of unconsciousness, she has no memory at all of the last ten months of her life. To her complete shock she learns that she is engaged to a man called Darcy, a man she has no recollection of meeting before. Darcy is shocked himself to realize that Elizabeth thinks she is engaged to him but his efforts to correct her misapprehension are thwarted by those around her who believe that to learn the truth will be detrimental to her recovery.
As the days go by, Darcy and Elizabeth spend time together, reading and driving out around Kent, behaving as the lovers Darcy always dreamt they would be. To continue in the disguise, to forget the contentions and misunderstandings of their past proves an unbearable temptation. When the worst happens and Elizabeth learns that not only did she refuse Darcy’s proposal, she hated him, what she learns seems completely incongruous with the man she has fallen in love with, and yet she simply does not know if she can forgive him for deceiving her. 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. This is a Pride and Prejudice variation. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a part of the ‘The Engaged to Mr. Darcy’ series. This is a closed door regency romance, moderate level of angst, and the romance tropes explored include fake engagement, mistaken identity, and amnesia.
Elizabeth Bennet, walking in Kent the day after Mr Darcy’s proposal meets with an unfortunate mishap. A meeting with an adder has disastrous consequences for her and when she wakes from a period of unconsciousness, she has no memory at all of the last ten months of her life. To her complete shock she learns that she is engaged to a man called Darcy, a man she has no recollection of meeting before. Darcy is shocked himself to realize that Elizabeth thinks she is engaged to him but his efforts to correct her misapprehension are thwarted by those around her who believe that to learn the truth will be detrimental to her recovery.
As the days go by, Darcy and Elizabeth spend time together, reading and driving out around Kent, behaving as the lovers Darcy always dreamt they would be. To continue in the disguise, to forget the contentions and misunderstandings of their past proves an unbearable temptation. When the worst happens and Elizabeth learns that not only did she refuse Darcy’s proposal, she hated him, what she learns seems completely incongruous with the man she has fallen in love with, and yet she simply does not know if she can forgive him for deceiving her. 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.
August 28, 2025
Can Memories lost be to Darcy’s gain?
4 1/2 stars rounded up
Amy D’Orazio has another hit especially as she brings our favorite Lord Saye back to save the day!
Post the disastrous proposal, Elizabeth is out for a walk and is bitten by a snake. She is outside for a very long time before Darcy finally finds her unconscious. Once she recovers from her fevers and injury. She has lost the last year‘s memories. Through a misunderstanding everyone around her gives the impression that she and Darcy are engaged. Darcy wants to tell her the truth but the doctor has told all of them to make sure that she does not get any shocking or startling news or information that could potentially set her recovery back. This misunderstanding paves the way for Elizabeth to fall in love with Darcy and he even more so with her. When Elizabeth learns the truth, she feels immensely betrayed.
Wickham sticks his conniving manipulative presence between Elizabeth and Darcy. There is many hurt feelings and emotions that both of them have to process with some nudging help from others to get them to see they both love each other and belong together.
The audiobook was very well done. I can easily see myself listening to this one again.
4 1/2 stars rounded up
Amy D’Orazio has another hit especially as she brings our favorite Lord Saye back to save the day!
Post the disastrous proposal, Elizabeth is out for a walk and is bitten by a snake. She is outside for a very long time before Darcy finally finds her unconscious. Once she recovers from her fevers and injury. She has lost the last year‘s memories. Through a misunderstanding everyone around her gives the impression that she and Darcy are engaged. Darcy wants to tell her the truth but the doctor has told all of them to make sure that she does not get any shocking or startling news or information that could potentially set her recovery back. This misunderstanding paves the way for Elizabeth to fall in love with Darcy and he even more so with her. When Elizabeth learns the truth, she feels immensely betrayed.
Wickham sticks his conniving manipulative presence between Elizabeth and Darcy. There is many hurt feelings and emotions that both of them have to process with some nudging help from others to get them to see they both love each other and belong together.
The audiobook was very well done. I can easily see myself listening to this one again.
July 15, 2025
Amy D’Orazio’s DONE FOR THE BEST stands out in the crowded field of Austen variations with its clever, inventive plot and rich emotional depth. The story begins with Elizabeth Bennet awakening from a mysterious accident, only to find herself engaged to Mr. Darcy — a man she doesn’t remember ever meeting. What follows is a masterful exploration of memory, identity, and the fine line between deception and protection. The novel’s tension is delicious, its pacing flawless, and its characters deeply compelling. Elizabeth and Darcy’s journey from misunderstanding to love is one to be remembered, not just as another retelling but as a fresh and thoughtful reimagining of a beloved classic.
Narrator Simon Alison delivers a captivating performance with a beautiful voice and perfectly measured pacing that draws you effortlessly into the story. His tone balances warmth and subtle tension, enhancing the deliciously intricate emotional undercurrents of the narrative. This audiobook is a true treat for fans of Austen-inspired fiction and will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Narrator Simon Alison delivers a captivating performance with a beautiful voice and perfectly measured pacing that draws you effortlessly into the story. His tone balances warmth and subtle tension, enhancing the deliciously intricate emotional undercurrents of the narrative. This audiobook is a true treat for fans of Austen-inspired fiction and will keep you hooked from start to finish.
August 3, 2025
Had some very good parts, specially in the start and end. Darcy's lie about the engagement was found out ~50% and after that almost no interactions between them until the end. I don't like books where one characters wrong is forgotten by another characters wrong. Here darcy having to lie about engagement was not convincing or needed at all, so for Elizabeth to forgive him, author needed to give some convincing arguments and more interactions between MCs. But instead, we have Elizabeth trusting Wickham even after knowing the truth of elopement from Wickham (which is not at all believable) and then getting almost kidnapped and Darcy coming to rescue. Having 2 equally unconving things to move plot was disappointing. After snake bite, i loved reading about Darcy's thoughts about Elizabeth and his concerns, and Darcy and Elizabeth's interaction when she believes them to be engaged. But nothing in them were good enough to have Elizabeth be in love even after knowing about the lie. Because of that, the romance wasn't convincing.. But still enjoyed reading parts of it.
May 26, 2025
Bitten by an adder (!) on a morning walk the day after Darcy's proposal at Hunsford, Elizabeth wakes to find herself with no memory of the last 10 months of her life. Due to a misunderstanding, she's told that she's engaged to Darcy, a man she doesn't remember. It's a long road to recovering her health and coming to terms with Darcy's actions.
A few things troubled me with this variation. Elizabeth's extreme reaction to discovering her "engagement" to Darcy was a sham, and her unwillingness to accept that it was "done for the best", were hard to rationalize. Also, her willingness to believe that Wickham wasn't as awful as Darcy painted him to be didn't fit her character. She frequently complained about swings of mood, headaches, and confusion. I suppose her behavior could be attributed to the snake bite just as much as the amnesia could. But I wasn't convinced. Nevertheless, it was fun, worthy of a second read, and Lord Saye steals the show, as usual. 4.5 stars
A few things troubled me with this variation. Elizabeth's extreme reaction to discovering her "engagement" to Darcy was a sham, and her unwillingness to accept that it was "done for the best", were hard to rationalize. Also, her willingness to believe that Wickham wasn't as awful as Darcy painted him to be didn't fit her character. She frequently complained about swings of mood, headaches, and confusion. I suppose her behavior could be attributed to the snake bite just as much as the amnesia could. But I wasn't convinced. Nevertheless, it was fun, worthy of a second read, and Lord Saye steals the show, as usual. 4.5 stars
August 20, 2025
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
I am such a hard-core E&D fan, and I don't always love lots of angst. There was moderate angst in this story that was quite the rollercoaster! From spite to love and back again, Elizabeth and Darcy manage to find their way after Elizabeth loses 10 months of memories and wakes thinking she and Darcy are engaged. The could-have-been courtship ensues, and Darcy is every bit of the man we all love. He is tender and caring, and they are so sweet together until the truth comes to light.
Their rocky path to HEA is played out to perfection with a little aid from the one and only Lord Saye, who is always a delight in an Amy D'Orazio story. This was my first experience hearing him brought to life by Simon Alison, and I can adamantly say that he was every bit as hilarious as I heard him in my own mind. The narration was perfect and I loved everything about this story!
I am such a hard-core E&D fan, and I don't always love lots of angst. There was moderate angst in this story that was quite the rollercoaster! From spite to love and back again, Elizabeth and Darcy manage to find their way after Elizabeth loses 10 months of memories and wakes thinking she and Darcy are engaged. The could-have-been courtship ensues, and Darcy is every bit of the man we all love. He is tender and caring, and they are so sweet together until the truth comes to light.
Their rocky path to HEA is played out to perfection with a little aid from the one and only Lord Saye, who is always a delight in an Amy D'Orazio story. This was my first experience hearing him brought to life by Simon Alison, and I can adamantly say that he was every bit as hilarious as I heard him in my own mind. The narration was perfect and I loved everything about this story!
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