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Disarmed: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Fitzwilliam Darcy has always relied on his wealth, status, and careful reserve to navigate society’s treacherous waters. But Elizabeth Bennet threatens to disarm him completely. She is everything his heart finds captivating—witty, spirited, utterly bewitching—but everything his head tells him he cannot have.
When a storm forces an unwelcome encounter with someone he deems entirely beneath his notice, Darcy discovers that his most carefully guarded secrets are no match for the unexpected perceptiveness of his companion—someone who sees through his defences with startling clarity, leaving him more vulnerable than he has ever been. Yet this same encounter may hold the key to everything he desires.
As old grievances reappear and hidden truths emerge, Darcy must choose between the armour of pride that has always protected him and the risk of exposing his heart completely. But he is not the only one whose mask is slipping. Charm can be the most dangerous weapon of all—until it is stripped away entirely.
Sometimes being disarmed is the only way to win the battle.
Disarmed is a Pride and Prejudice variation of appropriately 40,000 words. It is a low-angst story and suitable for all audiences.
When a storm forces an unwelcome encounter with someone he deems entirely beneath his notice, Darcy discovers that his most carefully guarded secrets are no match for the unexpected perceptiveness of his companion—someone who sees through his defences with startling clarity, leaving him more vulnerable than he has ever been. Yet this same encounter may hold the key to everything he desires.
As old grievances reappear and hidden truths emerge, Darcy must choose between the armour of pride that has always protected him and the risk of exposing his heart completely. But he is not the only one whose mask is slipping. Charm can be the most dangerous weapon of all—until it is stripped away entirely.
Sometimes being disarmed is the only way to win the battle.
Disarmed is a Pride and Prejudice variation of appropriately 40,000 words. It is a low-angst story and suitable for all audiences.
171 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
August 22, 2025
A Good Debut
In Disarmed, Darcy begins by playing an unwanted knight in shining armor for Lydia, crashing a not-so-innocent meet-up she has with Wickham before it turns into a full-blown scandal. Wickham hightails it out of there, and Lydia’s not too happy with Darcy meddling in her affairs. But before Darcy allows her to stomp back home to Longbourn, he gives her a couple of signs to know when Wickham’s lying. Before long, she understands that Darcy’s been the honest one, and they start to forge a relationship—the big brother-younger sister kind.
In this story, Lydia shows she possesses some wit, and it’s a refreshing change from the repetitive drama and elopement of Lydia and Wickham. She’s not just flighty or disruptive—she cleverly devises a scheme to get her revenge on Wickham, and even helps Darcy learn a few lessons on pride and prejudice. I especially loved how he willingly endears himself to the younger Bennet sisters by giving them the attention they lack from Mr. Bennet—a brother to wish for.
Jo Abbott, who’s usually editing books, wrote one herself, and she’s pretty good at it. The story flows well from start to finish, and the characters and plot ring true to Pride and Prejudice. That said, there are a few areas that, with a few adjustments to modern phrasing and slightly deeper immersion in period diction, the book would be even stronger and more authentic to the Regency era. I hope the author will take these thoughts constructively rather than critically, because I want to encourage future efforts instead of discouraging them.
The phrasing sometimes leans modern. For example, lines like “meeting and greeting people and making small talk,” “like a drug to him,” and even “sharp as a nail,” which, though changed from the common “sharp as a tack,” still feel modern to me, and “actually…happy” and “actually enjoying himself” also read slightly modern and conversational. Rephrasing these last two to “truly content” or “unexpectedly content”, for example, would have better fit a Regency tone. I also noticed overly repeated words such as “little”, used as an adjective (over sixty times), and “pink”, continually used for a blush—all nothing incorrect per se, but varying the wording would be less repetitive and not so distracting once noted. I also thought the author could have drawn out or developed some scenes more, as a few moments felt rushed and could have benefited from more detail before moving on to the next scene.
Overall, Disarmed is a solid read and first effort. I had a good time reading it. And with the way Jo’s got the hang of editing and knowing the original story like the back of her hand, I’m pretty sure she has the potential to stand out. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
Recommend.
In Disarmed, Darcy begins by playing an unwanted knight in shining armor for Lydia, crashing a not-so-innocent meet-up she has with Wickham before it turns into a full-blown scandal. Wickham hightails it out of there, and Lydia’s not too happy with Darcy meddling in her affairs. But before Darcy allows her to stomp back home to Longbourn, he gives her a couple of signs to know when Wickham’s lying. Before long, she understands that Darcy’s been the honest one, and they start to forge a relationship—the big brother-younger sister kind.
In this story, Lydia shows she possesses some wit, and it’s a refreshing change from the repetitive drama and elopement of Lydia and Wickham. She’s not just flighty or disruptive—she cleverly devises a scheme to get her revenge on Wickham, and even helps Darcy learn a few lessons on pride and prejudice. I especially loved how he willingly endears himself to the younger Bennet sisters by giving them the attention they lack from Mr. Bennet—a brother to wish for.
Jo Abbott, who’s usually editing books, wrote one herself, and she’s pretty good at it. The story flows well from start to finish, and the characters and plot ring true to Pride and Prejudice. That said, there are a few areas that, with a few adjustments to modern phrasing and slightly deeper immersion in period diction, the book would be even stronger and more authentic to the Regency era. I hope the author will take these thoughts constructively rather than critically, because I want to encourage future efforts instead of discouraging them.
The phrasing sometimes leans modern. For example, lines like “meeting and greeting people and making small talk,” “like a drug to him,” and even “sharp as a nail,” which, though changed from the common “sharp as a tack,” still feel modern to me, and “actually…happy” and “actually enjoying himself” also read slightly modern and conversational. Rephrasing these last two to “truly content” or “unexpectedly content”, for example, would have better fit a Regency tone. I also noticed overly repeated words such as “little”, used as an adjective (over sixty times), and “pink”, continually used for a blush—all nothing incorrect per se, but varying the wording would be less repetitive and not so distracting once noted. I also thought the author could have drawn out or developed some scenes more, as a few moments felt rushed and could have benefited from more detail before moving on to the next scene.
Overall, Disarmed is a solid read and first effort. I had a good time reading it. And with the way Jo’s got the hang of editing and knowing the original story like the back of her hand, I’m pretty sure she has the potential to stand out. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
Recommend.
August 21, 2025
Lydia is great
I love when an author makes a character more nuanced and dynamic.
Here Lydia is given a chance to shine. She is brighter than Canon, her eyes are opened to Wickham's wickedness early on and becomes a help in Darcy's endeavors with Elizabeth.
She also takes a proactive hand in Wickham's downfall.
An enjoyable read from this first time author.
I love when an author makes a character more nuanced and dynamic.
Here Lydia is given a chance to shine. She is brighter than Canon, her eyes are opened to Wickham's wickedness early on and becomes a help in Darcy's endeavors with Elizabeth.
She also takes a proactive hand in Wickham's downfall.
An enjoyable read from this first time author.
August 22, 2025
Lydia Bennet, Heroine!
October 4, 2025
Sweet. Kudos to Ms Abbott!
A few days before the Netherfield ball, Darcy is fighting his strong attraction to Elizabeth when he's confronted with a much different viewpoint of the Bennett family by a very surprising source. His attitude towards the Bennetts and the people of Meryton undergoes a gradual change because of this new outlook, and his change results in positive changes for others. Elizabeth notices the alteration in Darcy and begins to question her first impressions of him.
This is my first time reading this author, and I hope she'll continue to create JAFF. The premise is completely charming, with low angst and lovely romance. The only villain is Wickham, mostly because the timeline is very brief, but his comeuppance is wonderful. I didn't at all miss the other usual annoying villains. The book is very well written and well edited, probably because Ms Abbott is an editor herself. I recommend the book highly for a fun, pleasant, and romantic tale.
A few days before the Netherfield ball, Darcy is fighting his strong attraction to Elizabeth when he's confronted with a much different viewpoint of the Bennett family by a very surprising source. His attitude towards the Bennetts and the people of Meryton undergoes a gradual change because of this new outlook, and his change results in positive changes for others. Elizabeth notices the alteration in Darcy and begins to question her first impressions of him.
This is my first time reading this author, and I hope she'll continue to create JAFF. The premise is completely charming, with low angst and lovely romance. The only villain is Wickham, mostly because the timeline is very brief, but his comeuppance is wonderful. I didn't at all miss the other usual annoying villains. The book is very well written and well edited, probably because Ms Abbott is an editor herself. I recommend the book highly for a fun, pleasant, and romantic tale.
February 4, 2026
UPDATE: Feb. 2026, audiobook
I loved the audiobook. It was an even better experience than reading the story. Both narrators were wonderful, but I especially liked Alex Wyndham. I hope he does more JAFF.
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
This was sweet, charming, and entertaining. I enjoyed it.
I confess that I had confused this author with another JAFF writer with a similar name, and the other author’s work lacks the quality and polish of this story. I will definitely look for future works by this author (and take care to keep the names straight!).
I loved the audiobook. It was an even better experience than reading the story. Both narrators were wonderful, but I especially liked Alex Wyndham. I hope he does more JAFF.
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
This was sweet, charming, and entertaining. I enjoyed it.
I confess that I had confused this author with another JAFF writer with a similar name, and the other author’s work lacks the quality and polish of this story. I will definitely look for future works by this author (and take care to keep the names straight!).
August 28, 2025
what if Darcy and Lydia became chums
Lots of fun reading the story. Lots of interaction between Lydia and Darcy. A slightly different version of Lizzy. Her own pride and prejudice leads her astray, in a funny way. First time author.
Lots of fun reading the story. Lots of interaction between Lydia and Darcy. A slightly different version of Lizzy. Her own pride and prejudice leads her astray, in a funny way. First time author.
August 21, 2025
Wonderful 1st variation
Well I known for her excellent editing skills, Jo Abbott now adds writer to her list of accomplishments. I thoroughly enjoyed Disarmed and her characterization of all the P&P p!ayers. Lydia and Darcy's relationship was especially well done.
Low angst, great dialogue, and a satisfying ending.
I highly recommend and eagerly await Jo's next effort.
Well I known for her excellent editing skills, Jo Abbott now adds writer to her list of accomplishments. I thoroughly enjoyed Disarmed and her characterization of all the P&P p!ayers. Lydia and Darcy's relationship was especially well done.
Low angst, great dialogue, and a satisfying ending.
I highly recommend and eagerly await Jo's next effort.
October 16, 2025
What a lovely story! This is a feel-good variation, with a number of pleasant surprises. Lydia turns out to be a very perceptive little miss. The title, Disarmed, is perfect. Darcy goes about disarming everyone who disliked him after his behavior at the Meryton assembly. It's a gentle metamorphosis for Darcy, while Elizabeth slowly changes her opinion of the man for reasons that completely differ from those of canon. I loved it.
September 19, 2025
Variation on Pride and Prejudice in which Lydia takes a bigger role, and turns out to be a little wild but also more self-aware and teachable than the original. I'm not into the whole revenge thing, but that's more about the character, and I like that it was for someone else not herself, and it's a side story. I love that this shorter novel (longer than a novella but short for a novel) gets right to the point. No dilly-dallying around. I find that's what I need right now, with current events, a story that doesn't numb my brain with time-consuming nonsense, just gets going at once and can be read in a short time. The pace of this story is fast, but also allows time for the romance to be believable. Darcy is also more self-aware from the outset, and that helps. Elizabeth seems to take a while to catch up, but that's kind of fun too.
February 12, 2026
I especially liked the relationship Darcy developed with Lydia after coming upon her and Wickham in an abandoned cabin. I won't spoil anything by giving you details here. However, know that Darcy also acts as an older brother with other Bennet sisters.
Lydia does plan some revenge on Wickham...well done.
Lydia does plan some revenge on Wickham...well done.
August 27, 2025
5+ stars!
April 23, 2026
My Rating: 3.5* rounded up to 4*
“Darcy had not intended to ride to Longbourn, he had just wanted to get out of the suffocating claws of Miss Caroline Bingley.” (quote from the book)
In this charming debut novel, Mr. Darcy is escaping Miss Bingley when he rides out for some air. Before he knows it, he is coming up to Longbourn. This will not do! Quickly removing himself from the area, he realizes a storm is coming. Taking a little used path, he finds himself at an abandoned tenant’s cottage. Securing his horse, he enters only to interrupt an assignation between Mr. Wickham and Lydia Bennet. Wickham hightails it out of there and Mr. Darcy is left in Lydia’s presence. Mr. Darcy learns some very interesting things from Miss Lydia about her family and Miss Elizabeth. Lydia, likewise, learns some interesting facts about Mr. Wickham.
“Oh, do not worry, Mr. Darcy, no one in Hertfordshire would want to marry you, even if you were the last man in the world.”(quote from the book)
With both being so enlightened, Lydia is not sure if she believes Mr Darcy. Therefore, she tests what she has learned. Mr. Darcy in the meantime, takes some of Lydia’s advice to heart. What ensues is a sweet tale of looking beyond first impressions. I quite enjoyed seeing a further depth to Lydia and her spoilt attitude. I found a young girl who really only yearned for guidance and attention from her father.
April 9, 2026
Status: Read April 8-9, 2026 via audible edition
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)
My Library Notes:
Disarmed: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
by Jo Abbott, Elizabeth Grace (Narrator), Alex Wyndham (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 5 pages
Published February 3, 2026 by Podium Audio (first published August 20, 2025)
ASIN: B0GC6ZG2J4
Fitzwilliam Darcy has always relied on his wealth, status, and careful reserve to navigate society’s treacherous waters. But Elizabeth Bennet threatens to disarm him completely.
She is everything his heart finds captivating—witty, spirited, utterly bewitching—but everything his head tells him he cannot have.
When a storm forces an unwelcome encounter with someone he deems entirely beneath his notice, Darcy discovers that his most carefully guarded secrets are no match for the unexpected perceptiveness of his companion—someone who sees through his defences with startling clarity, leaving him more vulnerable than he has ever been. Yet this same encounter may hold the key to everything he desires.
As old grievances reappear and hidden truths emerge, Darcy must choose between the armour of pride that has always protected him and the risk of exposing his heart completely. But he is not the only one whose mask is slipping. Charm can be the most dangerous weapon of all—until it is stripped away entirely.
Sometimes being disarmed is the only way to win the battle.
Disarmed is a Pride and Prejudice variation of appropriately 40,000 words. It is a low-angst story and suitable for all audiences.
Listening Length: 4 hours and 5 minutes
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)
My Library Notes:
Disarmed: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
by Jo Abbott, Elizabeth Grace (Narrator), Alex Wyndham (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 5 pages
Published February 3, 2026 by Podium Audio (first published August 20, 2025)
ASIN: B0GC6ZG2J4
Fitzwilliam Darcy has always relied on his wealth, status, and careful reserve to navigate society’s treacherous waters. But Elizabeth Bennet threatens to disarm him completely.
She is everything his heart finds captivating—witty, spirited, utterly bewitching—but everything his head tells him he cannot have.
When a storm forces an unwelcome encounter with someone he deems entirely beneath his notice, Darcy discovers that his most carefully guarded secrets are no match for the unexpected perceptiveness of his companion—someone who sees through his defences with startling clarity, leaving him more vulnerable than he has ever been. Yet this same encounter may hold the key to everything he desires.
As old grievances reappear and hidden truths emerge, Darcy must choose between the armour of pride that has always protected him and the risk of exposing his heart completely. But he is not the only one whose mask is slipping. Charm can be the most dangerous weapon of all—until it is stripped away entirely.
Sometimes being disarmed is the only way to win the battle.
Disarmed is a Pride and Prejudice variation of appropriately 40,000 words. It is a low-angst story and suitable for all audiences.
Listening Length: 4 hours and 5 minutes
September 12, 2025
I loved it!
Warning: 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 a low-angst story and suitable for all audiences.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has always relied on his wealth, status, and careful reserve to navigate society’s treacherous waters, but Elizabeth Bennet threatens to disarm him completely. She is everything his heart finds captivating, witty, spirited, utterly bewitching, but everything his head tells him he cannot have.
When a storm forces an unwelcome encounter with someone he deems entirely beneath his notice, Darcy discovers that his most carefully guarded secrets are no match for the unexpected perceptiveness of his companion. Someone who sees through his defences with startling clarity, leaving him more vulnerable than he has ever been. Yet, this same encounter may hold the key to everything he desires.
As old grievances reappear and hidden truths emerge, Darcy must choose between the armour of pride that has always protected him and the risk of exposing his heart completely, but he is not the only one whose mask is slipping. Charm can be the most dangerous weapon of all, until it is stripped away entirely. Sometimes being disarmed is the only way to win the battle. 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: 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 a low-angst story and suitable for all audiences.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has always relied on his wealth, status, and careful reserve to navigate society’s treacherous waters, but Elizabeth Bennet threatens to disarm him completely. She is everything his heart finds captivating, witty, spirited, utterly bewitching, but everything his head tells him he cannot have.
When a storm forces an unwelcome encounter with someone he deems entirely beneath his notice, Darcy discovers that his most carefully guarded secrets are no match for the unexpected perceptiveness of his companion. Someone who sees through his defences with startling clarity, leaving him more vulnerable than he has ever been. Yet, this same encounter may hold the key to everything he desires.
As old grievances reappear and hidden truths emerge, Darcy must choose between the armour of pride that has always protected him and the risk of exposing his heart completely, but he is not the only one whose mask is slipping. Charm can be the most dangerous weapon of all, until it is stripped away entirely. Sometimes being disarmed is the only way to win the battle. 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.
September 8, 2025
An excellent debut novel - 4.5*
This was excellent fun from start to finish. The characters are engaging and Lydia is a hoot.
I do appreciate a book where she isn't painted as evil but instead as a girl who has been pushed into womanhood to quickly. This Lydia is bright and engaging and really quite like her 2nd oldest sister. All she needs is a bit of guidance - and from what a surprising source is that guidance is given.
There were a couple of minor editing/grammar misses. but this was a well edited and structured book.
This was excellent fun from start to finish. The characters are engaging and Lydia is a hoot.
I do appreciate a book where she isn't painted as evil but instead as a girl who has been pushed into womanhood to quickly. This Lydia is bright and engaging and really quite like her 2nd oldest sister. All she needs is a bit of guidance - and from what a surprising source is that guidance is given.
There were a couple of minor editing/grammar misses. but this was a well edited and structured book.
August 25, 2025
What a joy!
I read a book almost every other day. I haven't written a review in a long time. I was so pleased with this story , I wanted to share with JAFF readers my recommendation to read this novel. It's light, humorous, and I didn't want it to end. Lydia was delightful! I loved her new character.
I read a book almost every other day. I haven't written a review in a long time. I was so pleased with this story , I wanted to share with JAFF readers my recommendation to read this novel. It's light, humorous, and I didn't want it to end. Lydia was delightful! I loved her new character.
November 17, 2025
A most interesting angle
This is a very unusual story which is still based on our favorite from Jane Austen and respects all the characters’ traits while weaving an elaborate and unique tale. I really enjoyed the relationship between Elizabeth’s sisters and Darcy, mainly that between Lydia and him. A throughly enjoyable read!
This is a very unusual story which is still based on our favorite from Jane Austen and respects all the characters’ traits while weaving an elaborate and unique tale. I really enjoyed the relationship between Elizabeth’s sisters and Darcy, mainly that between Lydia and him. A throughly enjoyable read!
April 6, 2026
A chance meeting with Lydia Bennet releases some unexpected information for Darcy and Lydia. They both grow and learn with spectacular results!
September 7, 2025
Excellent!
Well written and at times, laugh out loud funny. Very interesting how she was able to weave the story to include unique solutions for our favorite characters. Enjoy!
Well written and at times, laugh out loud funny. Very interesting how she was able to weave the story to include unique solutions for our favorite characters. Enjoy!
September 26, 2025
Love this Lydia
Ms Abbot effortlessly captures the potential in Lydia. The light story moves quickly without losing any threads. Mr Wickham’s comeuppance is predictable (but welcome).
Buying for permanent collection.
I have a feeling my next read is going to be from this author.
Ms Abbot effortlessly captures the potential in Lydia. The light story moves quickly without losing any threads. Mr Wickham’s comeuppance is predictable (but welcome).
Buying for permanent collection.
I have a feeling my next read is going to be from this author.
September 27, 2025
A very entertaining read. Darcy teams up with Lydia, of all people, to foil Wickham and to win Elizabeth. Lydia begins the story as her most hoydenish self, flirtatious, bold and fearless, but Darcy sees something beyond the bad behavior and can’t help relating to her as would an older brother. Lydia learns what it is like to receive positive attention from an older, honorable man and is better for it. Her father is not one to provide attention or guidance which she receives from Darcy and learns to love and respect him as a brother. Darcy learns that there is merely a young girl under all the bad behavior; one in need of some positive attention who is eager to improve with the right mentor. Elizabeth learns that first impressions may be far from accurate and maybe her youngest, wildest sister may have more sense when it comes to assessing people’s characters. Truly a fun book.
November 24, 2025
What an adorable story..
Darcy learns to love the Bennets, while Elizabeth falls for him.. Darcy and Lydia's interactions are so sweet and funny, and darcy is honestly such a great brother here from the beginning. I love that the bennets are not whitewashed, all their faults remain the same, its just that darcy learns to overlook them and care for them as he comes to terms with his feelings for Elizabeth.
In a lot of books, even at the end, darcy never really warms upto the bennets and i always felt so bad for Elizabeth who tries to keep them away from Darcy, whereas Jane has no such worry with regards to Bingley. But i feel so happy for this E&D.. What a lovely story from start to finish..
Darcy learns to love the Bennets, while Elizabeth falls for him.. Darcy and Lydia's interactions are so sweet and funny, and darcy is honestly such a great brother here from the beginning. I love that the bennets are not whitewashed, all their faults remain the same, its just that darcy learns to overlook them and care for them as he comes to terms with his feelings for Elizabeth.
In a lot of books, even at the end, darcy never really warms upto the bennets and i always felt so bad for Elizabeth who tries to keep them away from Darcy, whereas Jane has no such worry with regards to Bingley. But i feel so happy for this E&D.. What a lovely story from start to finish..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 14, 2025
Premise: Darcy accidentally spends some one-on-one time with Lydia Bennet. Both of them learn some surprising truths that drastically alter the progression of events after the Netherfield ball.
What I liked: This was a warm and charming novella. Low-angst, funny, and sweet.
Characterization: Sharper and more clever Lydia.
Spice level: None.
Any non-canon parings:
Other notes or issues: Just delightful all 'round. I will admit to missing a Lady Catherine confrontation. I feel like this version of Lydia would have something to say in such a situation.
What I liked: This was a warm and charming novella. Low-angst, funny, and sweet.
Characterization: Sharper and more clever Lydia.
Spice level: None.
Any non-canon parings:
Other notes or issues: Just delightful all 'round. I will admit to missing a Lady Catherine confrontation. I feel like this version of Lydia would have something to say in such a situation.
September 9, 2025
- [ ] I loved this book! Whilst staying true to Jane Austen’s much loved characters the author has woven a humorous, engaging and believable story. Her descriptions of Darcy and Elizabeth were spot on and Wickham certainly came across as a manipulative rogue. I loved how the author expanded on the character of Lydia and put more into her character than that of a foolish girl! The dialogue was so well written, perfect for the 18century when the book is set and so very English! A perfect read. I look forward to the author’s next book
December 6, 2025
Lydia stole the show
I really enjoyed this book. I love P&P variations, Mr Darcy was my first book boyfriend and this book is definitely my new favorite. I absolutely loved Lydia in this one. It was refreshing to see her as more than just a spoiled child, her sharp wit at times resembled Lizzy, her change of heart and friendship towards Darcy which helps bring him and Lizzy together was a nice twist, and I am so here for their new brother/sister relationship. The only negative I have is that I wish it was longer, only because I didn’t want it to end.
I really enjoyed this book. I love P&P variations, Mr Darcy was my first book boyfriend and this book is definitely my new favorite. I absolutely loved Lydia in this one. It was refreshing to see her as more than just a spoiled child, her sharp wit at times resembled Lizzy, her change of heart and friendship towards Darcy which helps bring him and Lizzy together was a nice twist, and I am so here for their new brother/sister relationship. The only negative I have is that I wish it was longer, only because I didn’t want it to end.
August 27, 2025
A great variation
A very well done and clean variation. There are a few D words at first and some taking the Lord's name in vain but only at the beginning and very lite. The natural progression of Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship was wonderful. I was skeptical about Lydia being helpful but she truly is helpful and has her own arc at the same time, but it adds to the story rather than detracts.
A very well done and clean variation. There are a few D words at first and some taking the Lord's name in vain but only at the beginning and very lite. The natural progression of Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship was wonderful. I was skeptical about Lydia being helpful but she truly is helpful and has her own arc at the same time, but it adds to the story rather than detracts.
September 20, 2025
Great read!
Low angst and wonderful character development. Lydia was quite fun and her evolution was well written.
Wickham's storyline was done well and I thought entertaining.
Darcy is adorable and gets set straight early in the book. Bingley becomes more mature. Elizabeth is a lot more aware thanks to one of her sisters.
Little from Caroline and Aunt Catherine is a footnote.
Like how this author writes and develops characters and storylines.
Low angst and wonderful character development. Lydia was quite fun and her evolution was well written.
Wickham's storyline was done well and I thought entertaining.
Darcy is adorable and gets set straight early in the book. Bingley becomes more mature. Elizabeth is a lot more aware thanks to one of her sisters.
Little from Caroline and Aunt Catherine is a footnote.
Like how this author writes and develops characters and storylines.
August 28, 2025
Fantastic!!
It is always great fun when we get to see Lydia shine. Where she is allowed to be irrepressible, yet also allowed to be formidable and a good and decent person at the same time. The pairing of Darcy and Lydia as they form a genuine sibling Bond truly made for wonderful and light-hearted reading.
It is always great fun when we get to see Lydia shine. Where she is allowed to be irrepressible, yet also allowed to be formidable and a good and decent person at the same time. The pairing of Darcy and Lydia as they form a genuine sibling Bond truly made for wonderful and light-hearted reading.
August 29, 2025
I love this. Lydia and Darcy have an accidental encounter and as a consequence, both of them wise up.
This is a great Lydia. Seriously. She's still her boisterous self, only smarter about Wickham, and quite perceptive about Darcy.
Steam level: Safe for work.
I would have liked to know what Lydia said to Collins.
Any and all future releases by Jo Abbott are already on my TBR
This is a great Lydia. Seriously. She's still her boisterous self, only smarter about Wickham, and quite perceptive about Darcy.
Steam level: Safe for work.
I would have liked to know what Lydia said to Collins.
Any and all future releases by Jo Abbott are already on my TBR
August 30, 2025
Five stars—for Lydia
Loved it! Who’d have thought that an unpleasant encounter between Darcy and Lydia could be a catalyst for unexpected developments? A chance meeting has repercussions for all the Bennet sisters—as well as for Wickham. Excellent tale, Ms Abbott. I must go reread the Wickham scene!
Loved it! Who’d have thought that an unpleasant encounter between Darcy and Lydia could be a catalyst for unexpected developments? A chance meeting has repercussions for all the Bennet sisters—as well as for Wickham. Excellent tale, Ms Abbott. I must go reread the Wickham scene!
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