What do you think?
Rate this book
Colour My World: A Pride & Prejudice variation
She sees people’s emotions in colour—except for the one man she is determined to dislike.
After a fall from her horse, Elizabeth Bennet wakes to an altered world—one where her mind translates emotion into colour, painting those around her in vivid ‘aires’ born of breath, pulse, and movement. She reads truth in every shade, sees affection, envy, fear—until she meets Fitzwilliam Darcy. He has no aire. No colour. He is a void. Against her will, she is immediately drawn in.
Having lost both parents as a young man, Fitzwilliam Darcy struggles to meet society’s faultless manners, measured conduct, and the relentless weight of duty. Raise his young sister. Tend to a vast estate. Years ago, he made a promise to his mother—to allow love to find him. But he no longer believes in such a destiny. The girl with eyes of two colours, the one foretold to ease his burden, cannot exist. Then one night, at a minor country assembly, she does.
And in the background—watching, needling, provoking—is Mr Thomas Bennet, a father who treasures all five of his daughters, though each in her own maddening way. With a glass in hand and a barb always ready, he speaks in jest but strikes with truth. His wit conceals a sharper wisdom—and a heart that may yet open the door to understanding, forgiveness, and joy.
If you could see a man’s soul in colour—would you still trust your heart?
After a fall from her horse, Elizabeth Bennet wakes to an altered world—one where her mind translates emotion into colour, painting those around her in vivid ‘aires’ born of breath, pulse, and movement. She reads truth in every shade, sees affection, envy, fear—until she meets Fitzwilliam Darcy. He has no aire. No colour. He is a void. Against her will, she is immediately drawn in.
Having lost both parents as a young man, Fitzwilliam Darcy struggles to meet society’s faultless manners, measured conduct, and the relentless weight of duty. Raise his young sister. Tend to a vast estate. Years ago, he made a promise to his mother—to allow love to find him. But he no longer believes in such a destiny. The girl with eyes of two colours, the one foretold to ease his burden, cannot exist. Then one night, at a minor country assembly, she does.
And in the background—watching, needling, provoking—is Mr Thomas Bennet, a father who treasures all five of his daughters, though each in her own maddening way. With a glass in hand and a barb always ready, he speaks in jest but strikes with truth. His wit conceals a sharper wisdom—and a heart that may yet open the door to understanding, forgiveness, and joy.
If you could see a man’s soul in colour—would you still trust your heart?
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 2, 2025
116 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Barry S. Richman
8 books42 followersBarry S. Richman combines his background in the armed forces and expertise with a passion for Pride and Prejudice retellings.
After two decades of exploring countless stories from the JAFF universe, his wife challenged him to try writing one. During a trip to Istanbul, Barry wrote four pages that wove his real-world experiences into alternate-universe stories inspired by Jane Austen’s characters. He continued from there.
He published his first novel, Doubt Not, Cousin, in 2023, followed by The Scarred Duchess in 2024.
Follow The Drum continues his military-influenced alternate universe populated by characters familiar and new.
Barry and his “Jane Bennet” divide their time between Los Angeles and a seaside town in southwestern Turkey.
After two decades of exploring countless stories from the JAFF universe, his wife challenged him to try writing one. During a trip to Istanbul, Barry wrote four pages that wove his real-world experiences into alternate-universe stories inspired by Jane Austen’s characters. He continued from there.
He published his first novel, Doubt Not, Cousin, in 2023, followed by The Scarred Duchess in 2024.
Follow The Drum continues his military-influenced alternate universe populated by characters familiar and new.
Barry and his “Jane Bennet” divide their time between Los Angeles and a seaside town in southwestern Turkey.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 22, 2025
a very good story
The originality of the story is much fun. Richard Feynman, a great physicist,
has spoken of seeing math and physics in colors. Lizzy sees people in colors.
The story is very interesting and we see quite a bit of Darcy flailing around socially. Angst level is medium.
Georgiana’s story is quite sad, in a subtle kind of way. Worse it’s could really have happened.
Last but not least, the Wickham arc finishes vague enough that we can imagine any number of endings. We get to use our imaginations about his future. I choose dark. 😀
The originality of the story is much fun. Richard Feynman, a great physicist,
has spoken of seeing math and physics in colors. Lizzy sees people in colors.
The story is very interesting and we see quite a bit of Darcy flailing around socially. Angst level is medium.
Georgiana’s story is quite sad, in a subtle kind of way. Worse it’s could really have happened.
Last but not least, the Wickham arc finishes vague enough that we can imagine any number of endings. We get to use our imaginations about his future. I choose dark. 😀
October 18, 2025
Duty vs. Love plagues the hero and a unique way of seeing the world can’t untangle the affairs of the heart for the heroine in a Pride and Prejudice variation touched with a hint of magical realism. Barry S Richman’s Colour My World is only my second entrée into his writing, but his first book had a profound impact on me so I was more than willing to delve into the latest.
Told in alternating narrative and beginning with the times long before the original P&P timeline, Colour My World introduces both main characters as children.
Fitzwilliam as a nine-year-old child learning important truths at his mother’s wise and tender-loving side while learning to become the worthy and dutiful heir to the vast Pemberley estate from his stern, duty-bound father. An incident occurs in his teen years when the sleezy steward’s son, George Wickham tries to insinuate himself with Darcy’s little sister Georgiana and Darcy gets knocked down trying to protect her and his big, soldier cousin Fitzwilliam has to step in and thrash Wickham. His father is disappointed in him which seems to be constant since Darcy’s mother passed away. Darcy is determined never to leave Georgiana unprotected again and to somehow gain his disdainful father’s approval.
Meanwhile, young Lizzy Bennet is a hoyden at times and barrels her horse at a fence only to have a severe fall with a blow to the head that causes her to suddenly see clouds of color around all the people in her life. Her father is the first to learn of her condition when her accident forces him to see how his neglect to family was partly to blame for Lizzy’s wild behavior that led to her fall. Her father takes an interest in family propriety and his daughters’ futures and this steadies them all so that later, Darcy can still have his shocking moment at the Assembly when he meets a woman of unusual appearance and the whole neighborhood thinks he is disgusted by her. He has a harder path to love as a result.
Colour My World takes away some of Austen’s original conflicts and inserts a new set of hurdles for Darcy and Lizzy to overcome. I was vested in the story from the outset feeling the ache for Darcy who desperately wanted his father’s love and approval and is a protector to his sister because his father blames her for his wife dying as a result of Georgiana’s birth even while he turns into his seeming cold, proud, duty-bound father when he tries to learn to run the estate at a young age and rear his sister as a parent. Encountering Elizabeth and seeing the fulfillment of his mother’s parting foresight about the woman he will love is the point at which he loses the stone around his heart.
At the same time, Elizabeth has relied on her condition to read and discern people for so long that encountering someone with no color aura throws her off her game. Darcy confuses her and forces her to evaluate her refusal to see past his first insult even though he apologized and demonstrated he was not intending to slight her.
I loved how Barry Richman wrote those lighthearted family banters to tweak Lizzy for her stubbornness and refusal to acknowledge her feelings. Refusing to acknowledge that even her aerie emotions reading tell her what is truly happening. In modern-day terms, Elizabeth Bennet is experiencing a version of condition known as Synesthesia. She sees emotions in color. It was fun to see this seem almost mystical in the story. Now, Darcy’s diary gifted by his mother is a magical device allowing her voice to reach him from beyond the grave- or is a really cunning valet behind all that? Darcy finds the timely advice given worth it either way.
All in all, this was magical and heartwarming, well developed in characters and relationships all around. Colour My World was a deeply satisfying read that I can recommend to others who want a sweet romance and love slipping back into Austen’s P&P world.
I rec'd an eARC via author's marketing assistant to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post on my Instagram page @sophiarose1816 10.3.25
Told in alternating narrative and beginning with the times long before the original P&P timeline, Colour My World introduces both main characters as children.
Fitzwilliam as a nine-year-old child learning important truths at his mother’s wise and tender-loving side while learning to become the worthy and dutiful heir to the vast Pemberley estate from his stern, duty-bound father. An incident occurs in his teen years when the sleezy steward’s son, George Wickham tries to insinuate himself with Darcy’s little sister Georgiana and Darcy gets knocked down trying to protect her and his big, soldier cousin Fitzwilliam has to step in and thrash Wickham. His father is disappointed in him which seems to be constant since Darcy’s mother passed away. Darcy is determined never to leave Georgiana unprotected again and to somehow gain his disdainful father’s approval.
Meanwhile, young Lizzy Bennet is a hoyden at times and barrels her horse at a fence only to have a severe fall with a blow to the head that causes her to suddenly see clouds of color around all the people in her life. Her father is the first to learn of her condition when her accident forces him to see how his neglect to family was partly to blame for Lizzy’s wild behavior that led to her fall. Her father takes an interest in family propriety and his daughters’ futures and this steadies them all so that later, Darcy can still have his shocking moment at the Assembly when he meets a woman of unusual appearance and the whole neighborhood thinks he is disgusted by her. He has a harder path to love as a result.
Colour My World takes away some of Austen’s original conflicts and inserts a new set of hurdles for Darcy and Lizzy to overcome. I was vested in the story from the outset feeling the ache for Darcy who desperately wanted his father’s love and approval and is a protector to his sister because his father blames her for his wife dying as a result of Georgiana’s birth even while he turns into his seeming cold, proud, duty-bound father when he tries to learn to run the estate at a young age and rear his sister as a parent. Encountering Elizabeth and seeing the fulfillment of his mother’s parting foresight about the woman he will love is the point at which he loses the stone around his heart.
At the same time, Elizabeth has relied on her condition to read and discern people for so long that encountering someone with no color aura throws her off her game. Darcy confuses her and forces her to evaluate her refusal to see past his first insult even though he apologized and demonstrated he was not intending to slight her.
I loved how Barry Richman wrote those lighthearted family banters to tweak Lizzy for her stubbornness and refusal to acknowledge her feelings. Refusing to acknowledge that even her aerie emotions reading tell her what is truly happening. In modern-day terms, Elizabeth Bennet is experiencing a version of condition known as Synesthesia. She sees emotions in color. It was fun to see this seem almost mystical in the story. Now, Darcy’s diary gifted by his mother is a magical device allowing her voice to reach him from beyond the grave- or is a really cunning valet behind all that? Darcy finds the timely advice given worth it either way.
All in all, this was magical and heartwarming, well developed in characters and relationships all around. Colour My World was a deeply satisfying read that I can recommend to others who want a sweet romance and love slipping back into Austen’s P&P world.
I rec'd an eARC via author's marketing assistant to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post on my Instagram page @sophiarose1816 10.3.25
October 3, 2025
Wonderful storytelling
Another unique P & P variation from Barry S Richman. Loved the back story of Darcys mother, ruthless Colonel & friends and the slow D&E burn. The authors writing style is lyrical and visual. As I read, scenes clearly played out in my mind, like a well edited film. Definitely 5 star for me.
Another unique P & P variation from Barry S Richman. Loved the back story of Darcys mother, ruthless Colonel & friends and the slow D&E burn. The authors writing style is lyrical and visual. As I read, scenes clearly played out in my mind, like a well edited film. Definitely 5 star for me.
November 10, 2025
Wonderful
After a horse throws her at fifteen, Elizabeth's world changes. One of her eyes is a different color, and she can suddenly see people's moods or intentions manifest as an aura of color around them, or as objects that suggest feelings. This event also alters Mr Bennett, in that he resolves to protect Elizabeth from people who perceive her as strange, and he decides to take charge of his unruly family. Meanwhile, before Darcy's mother dies, she secretly predicts to him some things about the woman he will one day marry. When he's older, he begins the search for the woman of his mother's premonition.
I like this author. His characters are always very forthright, and there's lots of melodrama. I particularly enjoy his treatment of Colonel Fitzwilliam in all of his books. The romance is lovely, and so is having the Bennett family rational and loving. I deducted a star mainly because of the scene later in the story when Lady Catherine arrives at Netherfield Park and rides roughshod over everyone, without any pushback from anyone. That silliness took me right out of an otherwise nice storyline. However, the book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
After a horse throws her at fifteen, Elizabeth's world changes. One of her eyes is a different color, and she can suddenly see people's moods or intentions manifest as an aura of color around them, or as objects that suggest feelings. This event also alters Mr Bennett, in that he resolves to protect Elizabeth from people who perceive her as strange, and he decides to take charge of his unruly family. Meanwhile, before Darcy's mother dies, she secretly predicts to him some things about the woman he will one day marry. When he's older, he begins the search for the woman of his mother's premonition.
I like this author. His characters are always very forthright, and there's lots of melodrama. I particularly enjoy his treatment of Colonel Fitzwilliam in all of his books. The romance is lovely, and so is having the Bennett family rational and loving. I deducted a star mainly because of the scene later in the story when Lady Catherine arrives at Netherfield Park and rides roughshod over everyone, without any pushback from anyone. That silliness took me right out of an otherwise nice storyline. However, the book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
October 13, 2025
How do you see people?
In this latest variation Barry S Richman takes us along as Elizabeth has a riding accident that changes how she can see the world and Darcy is subjected to emotional isolation after his mother passes.
Darcy focuses so hard on things that he ends up shutting off his family including his sister. Thankfully Col Fitzwilliam is there when needed to smack him and take care of a few problems (love Col F’s brothers in arms).
Elizabeth ends up relying so much on her changed perspective that she misses a few things, including what people tell her are obvious. Both Darcy and Elizabeth have some communication hurdles they have to overcome. There’s several things that Darcy did poorly and would have liked to see corrected publicly.
There were a couple of tiny quibbles that would have been nice to be tied up or expanded upon, thinking of Mr. Hurst and later Bingley. These are not significant to the story, but just peaked my curiosity on a couple of things. I have to say I loved the Bennet’s Governess!
Yep, I will definitely read this again.
In this latest variation Barry S Richman takes us along as Elizabeth has a riding accident that changes how she can see the world and Darcy is subjected to emotional isolation after his mother passes.
Darcy focuses so hard on things that he ends up shutting off his family including his sister. Thankfully Col Fitzwilliam is there when needed to smack him and take care of a few problems (love Col F’s brothers in arms).
Elizabeth ends up relying so much on her changed perspective that she misses a few things, including what people tell her are obvious. Both Darcy and Elizabeth have some communication hurdles they have to overcome. There’s several things that Darcy did poorly and would have liked to see corrected publicly.
There were a couple of tiny quibbles that would have been nice to be tied up or expanded upon, thinking of Mr. Hurst and later Bingley. These are not significant to the story, but just peaked my curiosity on a couple of things. I have to say I loved the Bennet’s Governess!
Yep, I will definitely read this again.
October 11, 2025
tries too hard
The author spent so much time and effort trying to make the dialogue profound that the story was almost an afterthought. Also, the author made Elizabeth incredibly annoying.
The author spent so much time and effort trying to make the dialogue profound that the story was almost an afterthought. Also, the author made Elizabeth incredibly annoying.
October 8, 2025
I wish I liked it better
The beginning of the story was engaging. I enjoyed reading what shaped Darcy and Elizabeth into the individuals they became. As always, I am grateful for Richman's character, Richard Fitzwilliam, from "Doubt Not, Cousin." I look for him in every story, and he certainly did not disappoint.
However, Darcy came across as socially awkward in Meryton. While the author is creative, I have to admit that I’m not a fan of the “silence” or “less is more” approach to interactions, as they don’t build chemistry. I often find myself wondering why a character wouldn't be put off by such behavior. For instance, there were many moments when characters would abruptly leave a room without saying a proper goodbye. I would consider that rude, but apparently, it's okay.
Overall, there are scenes that I loved, some that I liked, and others that I didn't care for or understand.
The beginning of the story was engaging. I enjoyed reading what shaped Darcy and Elizabeth into the individuals they became. As always, I am grateful for Richman's character, Richard Fitzwilliam, from "Doubt Not, Cousin." I look for him in every story, and he certainly did not disappoint.
However, Darcy came across as socially awkward in Meryton. While the author is creative, I have to admit that I’m not a fan of the “silence” or “less is more” approach to interactions, as they don’t build chemistry. I often find myself wondering why a character wouldn't be put off by such behavior. For instance, there were many moments when characters would abruptly leave a room without saying a proper goodbye. I would consider that rude, but apparently, it's okay.
Overall, there are scenes that I loved, some that I liked, and others that I didn't care for or understand.
October 9, 2025
Newly sprung in Meryton
4.5* rounded down
Reading a book from Mr. Richman reminds me of the fact that the love of Jane Austen is a truth universally known and encompasses all genders. There is no less romance or creativity, just a touch of je ne sais quoi that is the masculine touch. Once again, he writes a unique story that drew me in. With Darcy's foibles from after his mother's death to his arrival at the Meryton assembly, I found myself in Colonel Fitzwilliam's shoes regarding the desire to punch some sense into him. I acknowledge that reading about his experience led me to understand better his character and approach to life. I hope that the author does a second edition of this story where some typos and jumps in the narrative are addressed—I found Elizabeth's sudden change of attitude somewhat abrupt and uneven. Otherwise, this novel is another winner.
4.5* rounded down
Reading a book from Mr. Richman reminds me of the fact that the love of Jane Austen is a truth universally known and encompasses all genders. There is no less romance or creativity, just a touch of je ne sais quoi that is the masculine touch. Once again, he writes a unique story that drew me in. With Darcy's foibles from after his mother's death to his arrival at the Meryton assembly, I found myself in Colonel Fitzwilliam's shoes regarding the desire to punch some sense into him. I acknowledge that reading about his experience led me to understand better his character and approach to life. I hope that the author does a second edition of this story where some typos and jumps in the narrative are addressed—I found Elizabeth's sudden change of attitude somewhat abrupt and uneven. Otherwise, this novel is another winner.
October 2, 2025
I am one of the fortunate ones who signed up for an arc read of Colour My World. Barry has done it again, finding a rare but plausible infliction and changing the whole dynamic of the Bennet characters. And around that dynamic for Elizabeth, has written for us an epic that will keep you wanting to read through the night. Another highly enjoyable read from an amazing author.
October 13, 2025
I am conflicted how to review this book on the one hand it was orginal and well written, on the other I found it vague and intuitive to read. It was redeemed for me by a satisfying epilogue.
November 20, 2025
Extremely interesting!
I never knew about this condition before, but I imagine it must be most confusing to wake up to it. This was a great idea for a story, told in a wholly relatable manner. I loved the change Elizabeth’s accident caused on her father, and consequently, on the whole family. Great tale!
I never knew about this condition before, but I imagine it must be most confusing to wake up to it. This was a great idea for a story, told in a wholly relatable manner. I loved the change Elizabeth’s accident caused on her father, and consequently, on the whole family. Great tale!
October 21, 2025
Very good, but a bit confusing
First off, this is a very well written book, beautiful prose, and well crafted from a plot standpoint and the buildup to D&E's romance.
That said, I admit to feeling a bit lost at times, like I ought to have understood something, but didn't. As if it were a sequel, and I hadn't read the first in the series. It's not something I feel often when reading, and usually only in a mystery that has a denouement later. Here, though, I feel like it was a case of not enough explanation, things left a little too vague. Am I supposed to get why Col Fitzwilliam rides around with those other officers? How did Mrs. E get attached to the Bennets, and is it supposed to be quite so mysterious? Is everyone preternaturally perceptive, or are they just all hinting at being magical for no reason? I just felt a bit off the whole time and it never quite resolved for me.
First off, this is a very well written book, beautiful prose, and well crafted from a plot standpoint and the buildup to D&E's romance.
That said, I admit to feeling a bit lost at times, like I ought to have understood something, but didn't. As if it were a sequel, and I hadn't read the first in the series. It's not something I feel often when reading, and usually only in a mystery that has a denouement later. Here, though, I feel like it was a case of not enough explanation, things left a little too vague. Am I supposed to get why Col Fitzwilliam rides around with those other officers? How did Mrs. E get attached to the Bennets, and is it supposed to be quite so mysterious? Is everyone preternaturally perceptive, or are they just all hinting at being magical for no reason? I just felt a bit off the whole time and it never quite resolved for me.
October 8, 2025
3.5 rounded up. I liked the idea of Elizabeth seeing the colors, having to get to know Mr Darcy instead of just observing. But they didn't get to know each other, they didn't even talk. He says he's in love, wants to marry her, but what does he even know about her other than his mom has a vision? He doesn't even tell her he cares for her until the very end. And Elizabeth, what's she supposed to think? She can't even figure out his character because he just stares instead of conversing. Her Dad teases her for being jealous when he talks, smiles, and laughs as he walks with Jane (Bingley asks him to talk with her), but as Darcy hadn't talked or smiled, let alone laughed, with her, how's she supposed to feel? But I think the outward frustration was a bit much, accusing Jane of "stealing" him (she wasn't, just wanted to see if Elizabeth would be jealous - which was mean), when she had no claim, no connection with him, she have even said she liked him and he gave to indication of any special regard to him. Then Jane teases her about it and is just vague, instead of reassuring her sister / talking with her.
I also think the color thing could have been explored / utilized more. Oh and she doesn't ever tell him about it!
I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it. I think it just frustrated me.
I also think the color thing could have been explored / utilized more. Oh and she doesn't ever tell him about it!
I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it. I think it just frustrated me.
December 1, 2025
What is the price of duty?
“A gentleman’s first duty is to those he loves.” (quote from the book)
Step into the world of Mr. Richman’s books and you don’t want to leave. His distinctive style, pacing, and use of his original characters adds a further depth to his interpretation of Jane Austen’s beloved characters. New perspectives and challenges are the driving force, and one is given a unique variation that captures the imagination.
“Shadows flickered about their faces as they wove their tales, not outright deception, but something more insidious. Delight, not truth, nourished their tongues.” (quote from the book)
‘Colour my World’ deals with a rare condition dealt by trauma. Elizabeth Bennet is thrown from her horse, hitting her head. When she awakens, she sees ‘colour(s)’ around each member of the family and household. What she learns from observing her family and friends over the years is their ‘truth’. How does this accident impact Elizabeth and the Bennet family…especially Mr. Bennet? How does their trajectory deviate from canon? I will let you discover that on your own.
“Strength is not in never falling but in rising every time you do.” (quote from the book)
The book is written in Five Parts with a Prologue and Epilogue (Past/Present). I enjoyed this aspect as we get background on Darcy’s upbringing and how the death of his beloved mother impacts the entire Darcy family, as well as the ‘duty’ that is drilled into him from his father. We learn of a ‘special journal’ that he was given as child. The chapters on the past came across as journal entries, so it tied in nicely from that aspect. This Darcy is more stoic and taciturn than canon and more troubled. He has put himself through the ringer trying to prove to his worthiness. But it is with Georgiana that he has the most to lose. And let’s not forget his first reaction to Elizabeth in Hertfordshire! How does he dig himself out of that debacle?
“A fight is not merely a contest for victory, Cousin. Its conclusion must leave no room for a second.” (quote from the book)
And interspersed throughout the story, we have Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam and his team. The lessons he tries to impart to Darcy and the actions he takes. He is a favourite of mine, especially after Mr. Richman’s first book ‘Doubt Not, Cousin’. One of my all-time favourite books!
“It was her.” (quote from the book)
Both Elizabeth and Darcy have lessons to be learned. Both stumble and fall in their dance around each other. There are those around them that see more clearly and try to make them see what they struggle to admit. Lady Catherine does have her say but is soon trumped. Mr. Collins is nicely sidelined and Mr. Wickham…let’s just say he gets his just desserts!
I loved the book. Yes, I had a quibble or two about certain characters but not enough to remove any stars! There were so many wonderful quotes I would have liked to use in this review, but my review would never end! Now this novel will sit on my shelf next to all the others by Mr. Richman until I read it again!
I wonder what he will do with Lydia Bennet now that the other four sisters have had their own stories?
October 5, 2025
I loved it!
Warning: Meant for mature audiences. Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is part of the series called The Bennet Sister Variations: A Pride & Prejudice-Inspired Series. If you could see a man’s soul in colour, would you still trust your heart? She sees people’s emotions in colour, except for the one man she is determined to dislike. After a fall from her horse, Elizabeth Bennet wakes to an altered world, one where her mind translates emotion into colour, painting those around her in vivid ‘aires’ born of breath, pulse, and movement. She reads truth in every shade, sees affection, envy, fear, until she meets Fitzwilliam Darcy, for he has no aire, no colour, he is a void, and against her will, she is immediately drawn in.
Having lost both parents as a young man, Fitzwilliam Darcy struggles to meet society’s faultless manners, measured conduct, and the relentless weight of duty, to raise his young sister, and tend to a vast estate. Years ago, he made a promise to his mother, to allow love to find him, but he no longer believes in such a destiny. The girl with eyes of two colours, the one foretold to ease his burden, cannot exist. Then one night, at a minor country assembly, she does. In the background, watching, needling, and provoking, is Mr Thomas Bennet, a father who treasures all five of his daughters, though each in her own maddening way. With a glass in hand and a barb always ready, he speaks in jest but strikes with truth. His wit conceals a sharper wisdom, and a heart that may yet open the door to understanding, forgiveness, and joy.
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.
Warning: Meant for mature audiences. Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is part of the series called The Bennet Sister Variations: A Pride & Prejudice-Inspired Series. If you could see a man’s soul in colour, would you still trust your heart? She sees people’s emotions in colour, except for the one man she is determined to dislike. After a fall from her horse, Elizabeth Bennet wakes to an altered world, one where her mind translates emotion into colour, painting those around her in vivid ‘aires’ born of breath, pulse, and movement. She reads truth in every shade, sees affection, envy, fear, until she meets Fitzwilliam Darcy, for he has no aire, no colour, he is a void, and against her will, she is immediately drawn in.
Having lost both parents as a young man, Fitzwilliam Darcy struggles to meet society’s faultless manners, measured conduct, and the relentless weight of duty, to raise his young sister, and tend to a vast estate. Years ago, he made a promise to his mother, to allow love to find him, but he no longer believes in such a destiny. The girl with eyes of two colours, the one foretold to ease his burden, cannot exist. Then one night, at a minor country assembly, she does. In the background, watching, needling, and provoking, is Mr Thomas Bennet, a father who treasures all five of his daughters, though each in her own maddening way. With a glass in hand and a barb always ready, he speaks in jest but strikes with truth. His wit conceals a sharper wisdom, and a heart that may yet open the door to understanding, forgiveness, and joy.
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.
October 12, 2025
Beginning with the cover, this novel dazzles. We are also pleasantly graced with the appearance of Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam from “Doubt Not, Cousin” and he is as mysterious and as masterful as ever. Thanks for bringing him back, Barry!
Darcy is pulled between the gentle guidance of his lady mother and the duty-minded persistence of his father. He strives to uphold his duties and to become a gentleman worthy of his father’s regard. Yet his mother’s words continue to haunt his heart.
Elizabeth, following an accident when she is fifteen, begins to see people and the world in a different way. Her reality and perceptions are forever changed. Fortunately her father recognizes her perception for the gift it is and his family greatly benefits from his willingness to open his mind.
When Darcy sees Elizabeth for the first time he is shocked to recognize the woman his mother told him to expect. Will he continue to hew to duty or open his heart to the possibility of love? When Elizabeth sees Darcy she is shocked because she cannot read him as she has come to have the ability to read all others. Is he the man he appears to be or is there something hidden more deeply, waiting to be discovered?
Darcy is pulled between the gentle guidance of his lady mother and the duty-minded persistence of his father. He strives to uphold his duties and to become a gentleman worthy of his father’s regard. Yet his mother’s words continue to haunt his heart.
Elizabeth, following an accident when she is fifteen, begins to see people and the world in a different way. Her reality and perceptions are forever changed. Fortunately her father recognizes her perception for the gift it is and his family greatly benefits from his willingness to open his mind.
When Darcy sees Elizabeth for the first time he is shocked to recognize the woman his mother told him to expect. Will he continue to hew to duty or open his heart to the possibility of love? When Elizabeth sees Darcy she is shocked because she cannot read him as she has come to have the ability to read all others. Is he the man he appears to be or is there something hidden more deeply, waiting to be discovered?
November 26, 2025
Lovely story.
A bit too much angst for my personal preference, but not so much that I deducted a star for it.
This story starts quite a bit further back than the original P&P, with Darcy’s youth and his interactions with Lady Anne, Fitzwilliam, and Wickham. Wickham is his usual dissolute self, but the elder Mr. Darcy sees it when Wickham attacked Darcy in the village.
Elizabeth’s side of the story starts with her accident, which changes her life dramatically. And Mr. Bennet’s, too… he sees that he has been lax as a father and guardian, and with Lizzy now needing extra protection, he steps up.
Then the author takes us on a journey of the original P&P story, just seen through a different lens. The internal struggles of Darcy and Lizzy have much more prominence (hence the angst) but most conflicts are resolved without too much trouble.
I highly recommend reading this book.
A bit too much angst for my personal preference, but not so much that I deducted a star for it.
This story starts quite a bit further back than the original P&P, with Darcy’s youth and his interactions with Lady Anne, Fitzwilliam, and Wickham. Wickham is his usual dissolute self, but the elder Mr. Darcy sees it when Wickham attacked Darcy in the village.
Elizabeth’s side of the story starts with her accident, which changes her life dramatically. And Mr. Bennet’s, too… he sees that he has been lax as a father and guardian, and with Lizzy now needing extra protection, he steps up.
Then the author takes us on a journey of the original P&P story, just seen through a different lens. The internal struggles of Darcy and Lizzy have much more prominence (hence the angst) but most conflicts are resolved without too much trouble.
I highly recommend reading this book.
October 18, 2025
A beautifully written and original variation
Barry S. Richman has once again created something special with Colour My World. This Pride and Prejudice variation takes a fresh and believable twist that completely reshapes the Bennet family dynamic. It has become a comforting style for the author to give us an emotional backstory for the main characters which adds real depth to our understanding of behaviours and feelings. The slow-burn relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is both tender and compelling, giving us some longed for scenes between the two.
Barry’s lyrical writing style with strong dialogue makes each scene play vividly in your mind, the kind of story you don’t want to put down until the very end. An engaging, emotional and imaginative read that will stay with you long after you’ve finished and will definitely be in my re-read pile!
Barry S. Richman has once again created something special with Colour My World. This Pride and Prejudice variation takes a fresh and believable twist that completely reshapes the Bennet family dynamic. It has become a comforting style for the author to give us an emotional backstory for the main characters which adds real depth to our understanding of behaviours and feelings. The slow-burn relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is both tender and compelling, giving us some longed for scenes between the two.
Barry’s lyrical writing style with strong dialogue makes each scene play vividly in your mind, the kind of story you don’t want to put down until the very end. An engaging, emotional and imaginative read that will stay with you long after you’ve finished and will definitely be in my re-read pile!
October 7, 2025
Aww I really enjoyed this spin on my fave characters. I like how we definitely got to see both sides to Darcy and Elizabeth. The before they met.
So we could see how they both were living and to know what was going through their minds.
And both point of views. which I really seem to enjoy a lot more lately. You just get a feel for what all the characters are thinking.
Elizabeth will always be my favourite character. And I love how this book she can see the colors and although she didn't understand what all that meant at first, it was good she figured it out.
Pick this book up if you want a different spin on our beloved book.
So we could see how they both were living and to know what was going through their minds.
And both point of views. which I really seem to enjoy a lot more lately. You just get a feel for what all the characters are thinking.
Elizabeth will always be my favourite character. And I love how this book she can see the colors and although she didn't understand what all that meant at first, it was good she figured it out.
Pick this book up if you want a different spin on our beloved book.
October 5, 2025
A worthy read
MrR. is an author I like to read, though it's not an 'easy' read - not one to skim - there's much to like. It opens at Pemberley when Darcy was young and in the short while before his mother died, she foretold of the woman he would come to love. It's a wordy story, E and D meet at the assembly but the insult there is worse than the original and the understanding takes a lot to resolve. The Bennets are treated much better, the villains got rid of fairly easily and Lady C. doesn't always get her way and even provides a few light moments. Recommended.
MrR. is an author I like to read, though it's not an 'easy' read - not one to skim - there's much to like. It opens at Pemberley when Darcy was young and in the short while before his mother died, she foretold of the woman he would come to love. It's a wordy story, E and D meet at the assembly but the insult there is worse than the original and the understanding takes a lot to resolve. The Bennets are treated much better, the villains got rid of fairly easily and Lady C. doesn't always get her way and even provides a few light moments. Recommended.
November 9, 2025
This was such a nice book! Thank you for the ARC, InkSlinger ♥
When an artist loses his inspiration, an unexpected encounter brings color—and meaning—back into his life.
This was my first book by Mr. Richman, and it was amazing to see how he paints with words, crafting a story that’s as vivid and emotional as its title suggests. His prose is lyrical, reflective, and deeply human, exploring creativity, love, and renewal.
Poetic and heartfelt, Colour My World is a beautifully written meditation on art, connection, and rediscovering joy.
When an artist loses his inspiration, an unexpected encounter brings color—and meaning—back into his life.
This was my first book by Mr. Richman, and it was amazing to see how he paints with words, crafting a story that’s as vivid and emotional as its title suggests. His prose is lyrical, reflective, and deeply human, exploring creativity, love, and renewal.
Poetic and heartfelt, Colour My World is a beautifully written meditation on art, connection, and rediscovering joy.
October 12, 2025
unique and thoughtful
I loved the author’s last book, and this one did not disappoint! The Bennet family dynamics are different but not wholly out of character, and Darcy’s family backstory is a major part of the plot. It involves elements of fantasy, but it’s done in a really thoughtful way. This is definitely one that warrants a few re-reads, as I’m sure I missed things the first time around.
I loved the author’s last book, and this one did not disappoint! The Bennet family dynamics are different but not wholly out of character, and Darcy’s family backstory is a major part of the plot. It involves elements of fantasy, but it’s done in a really thoughtful way. This is definitely one that warrants a few re-reads, as I’m sure I missed things the first time around.
October 15, 2025
colour me delighted!
The early chapters, a series of vignettes of Darcy’s early life allow us to see how the child is father to the man better than yards and yards of descriptive prose. The novel is insightful, it is kind but not sentimental. It does not spell everything out. But it allows us to tease out meaning. I believe this is a book that would be worth rereading. Congratulations, Mr. Richman.
The early chapters, a series of vignettes of Darcy’s early life allow us to see how the child is father to the man better than yards and yards of descriptive prose. The novel is insightful, it is kind but not sentimental. It does not spell everything out. But it allows us to tease out meaning. I believe this is a book that would be worth rereading. Congratulations, Mr. Richman.
October 19, 2025
A bit disjointed but entertaining
I found the majority of the book enjoyable. I can’t pinpoint where exactly but at one point I believe AI was used to write or edit the story. It became very disjointed and their conversations reminded me of other AI stories I have read where it’s all whiplash witticism that expresses nothing. Good premise I would say it started out okay but got progressively worse with style.
I found the majority of the book enjoyable. I can’t pinpoint where exactly but at one point I believe AI was used to write or edit the story. It became very disjointed and their conversations reminded me of other AI stories I have read where it’s all whiplash witticism that expresses nothing. Good premise I would say it started out okay but got progressively worse with style.
October 8, 2025
Well-written
While I can’t say that I loved the plot, Barry Richman can certainly write. I especially enjoyed the first few chapters and his new creation of Barty, Darcy’s philosopher-valet. If you haven’t read any of Barry’s books, do yourself a favor and pick one up. If you’re a fan, this will not disappoint.
While I can’t say that I loved the plot, Barry Richman can certainly write. I especially enjoyed the first few chapters and his new creation of Barty, Darcy’s philosopher-valet. If you haven’t read any of Barry’s books, do yourself a favor and pick one up. If you’re a fan, this will not disappoint.
October 15, 2025
Cute
I enjoyed this story, very much so... One could tell, it was written by a man with the conversations of Darcy and Bingley or Darcy and Mr. Bennet or even with the little glimpses of the Colonel. I like a story when the younger Bennet sisters are tamed. Thank you Mr. Richman, for the excellent entertainment.
I enjoyed this story, very much so... One could tell, it was written by a man with the conversations of Darcy and Bingley or Darcy and Mr. Bennet or even with the little glimpses of the Colonel. I like a story when the younger Bennet sisters are tamed. Thank you Mr. Richman, for the excellent entertainment.
October 15, 2025
a very interesting concept of 'aires' and I enjoyed how the story played out. there were times when I felt chapters/sections ended suddenly, without resolving the current situational then just jumped forward in time, without giving any reason or any understanding of how the characters had behaved or felt.
October 26, 2025
The writing was so choppy, especially at the beginning with Darcy. It never read like a Pride and Prejudice book. Too many questions left unanswered. The flow was awful. I was confused much of the time. It was not witty, but I think it was supposed to be. I did not find it so. What happened with Jane and Bingley? Anything? Also, did the girls have dowries? How much?
December 23, 2025
2.75⭐️
I was looking forward to this book. I have read 2 other books by this author and loved one, the other was OK. This was underwhelming for me. I thought there was so much more that could be done with the story. It might also be that I just could not go deeper than the words written on the page and some deeper meaning escaped me.
I was looking forward to this book. I have read 2 other books by this author and loved one, the other was OK. This was underwhelming for me. I thought there was so much more that could be done with the story. It might also be that I just could not go deeper than the words written on the page and some deeper meaning escaped me.
December 23, 2025
I found Colour My World an interesting read. The idea of Elizabeth seeing a colourful aura around every person is very original. But I thought there was not enough verbal interaction between Darcy and Elizabeth. He usually just stared at her and leaves the room abruptly. The dialogue is sometimes vague, like they talk in riddles.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews