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Pride and Peril
Mr & Mrs Darcy, the joyous newlyweds from Pride and Prejudice, have not even left for their honeymoon when they find themselves embroiled in a mystery involving one of their wedding guests.
The lovely Caroline Bingley is engaged to marry a rich and charismatic American. Unfortunately, this windswept courtship is marred by many strange nocturnal wanderings, spooked horses, carriage accidents and even an apparent suicide attempt. Soon the whole Bingley family seems the target of a mysterious plot.
Only the Darcys recognise the danger as the Austen genre of Regency romances mixes with the unearthly gothic threats of Ann Radcliffe and the Brontës. Dark forces are afoot and the Darcys must get to the bottom of the plot before the blushing bride descends into madness or worse.
In Pride and Peril, the Darcys take centre stage as the Regency era's answer to the Thin Man's Nick and Nora, in search of the truth, universally acknowledged and otherwise.
The lovely Caroline Bingley is engaged to marry a rich and charismatic American. Unfortunately, this windswept courtship is marred by many strange nocturnal wanderings, spooked horses, carriage accidents and even an apparent suicide attempt. Soon the whole Bingley family seems the target of a mysterious plot.
Only the Darcys recognise the danger as the Austen genre of Regency romances mixes with the unearthly gothic threats of Ann Radcliffe and the Brontës. Dark forces are afoot and the Darcys must get to the bottom of the plot before the blushing bride descends into madness or worse.
In Pride and Peril, the Darcys take centre stage as the Regency era's answer to the Thin Man's Nick and Nora, in search of the truth, universally acknowledged and otherwise.
- GenresMystery
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 25, 2025
About the author
Carrie Bebris
20 books238 followersCarrie began her career in publishing after previous roles as a newspaper reporter and college English teacher.
As an editor for fantasy publisher TSR, Inc., she developed supplements for the Dungeons & Dragons® roleplaying game before striking out on her own as a freelance writer and editor. She wrote two fantasy novels, Pool of Radiance: Ruins of Myth Drannor (2001) and Shadowborn (1998, with William W. Connors), before making her mystery debut in 2004 with Pride and Prescience.
In addition to fiction, Carrie pens remodeling articles for Better Homes and Gardens® Special Interest Publications and writes other nonfiction. She has also edited such books as Tea with Jane Austen (by Kim Wilson) and Walking with
William Shakespeare (by Anne-Marie Edwards). She is on the faculty of the
Antioch Writers' Workshop and speaks frequently about writing and publishing.
Carrie holds a master’s degree in English literature with an emphasis on 19th-century authors and studied Austen on the graduate level with one of today’s most respected Austen scholars. She is a life member of the Jane Austen Society of North America and travels to England to enhance her understanding of Austen’s life and work.
Originally from Wisconsin, Carrie now lives in Ohio. When not writing, she likes to travel, watch costume dramas that send her husband fleeing the house, and indulge in her love of all things British. She is currently working on her next novel, based on Persuasion.
As an editor for fantasy publisher TSR, Inc., she developed supplements for the Dungeons & Dragons® roleplaying game before striking out on her own as a freelance writer and editor. She wrote two fantasy novels, Pool of Radiance: Ruins of Myth Drannor (2001) and Shadowborn (1998, with William W. Connors), before making her mystery debut in 2004 with Pride and Prescience.
In addition to fiction, Carrie pens remodeling articles for Better Homes and Gardens® Special Interest Publications and writes other nonfiction. She has also edited such books as Tea with Jane Austen (by Kim Wilson) and Walking with
William Shakespeare (by Anne-Marie Edwards). She is on the faculty of the
Antioch Writers' Workshop and speaks frequently about writing and publishing.
Carrie holds a master’s degree in English literature with an emphasis on 19th-century authors and studied Austen on the graduate level with one of today’s most respected Austen scholars. She is a life member of the Jane Austen Society of North America and travels to England to enhance her understanding of Austen’s life and work.
Originally from Wisconsin, Carrie now lives in Ohio. When not writing, she likes to travel, watch costume dramas that send her husband fleeing the house, and indulge in her love of all things British. She is currently working on her next novel, based on Persuasion.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 4, 2026
This was a fun historical mystery novel set in the Regency era with the P&P characters we love. The mystery aspect was great and in keeping with the time this book is set in.
The writing tone was good considering it follows from Jane Austen.
The audiobook narrator did a wonderful job mastering the different characters and their personalities in their verses. I really enjoyed listening to them.
***Now, having read people's feedback regarding the ending, I do get where people are coming from.*** Yes, you do not want to give away plots and ruin the story before you've read it BUT due to this being so closely linked to a much loved and adored classic story, expectations have to be met that this isn't a quaint murder mystery following on from P&P.
It's a story based on supernatural. For avid fans of the original, this is jarring.
The supernatural element of this story is very prominent at one stage and is written unquestioning, without any other option being possible. Having read Laura Purcell and many other paranormal novels, the magic of the story is:
1) You're reading a paranormal based story
2) It's hinted, but never truly confirmed, leaving the possible fantastical element of the story up to the reader and their beliefs.
This force fed it to you and then sprinkled it with chanting and candlework.
I enjoyed it but I am open minded to other worldly events and beings. It didn't bother me and I loved being pulled into this novel.
Thanks to Netgallery & Carrie Bebris for the ALC in return for my honest option
The writing tone was good considering it follows from Jane Austen.
The audiobook narrator did a wonderful job mastering the different characters and their personalities in their verses. I really enjoyed listening to them.
***Now, having read people's feedback regarding the ending, I do get where people are coming from.*** Yes, you do not want to give away plots and ruin the story before you've read it BUT due to this being so closely linked to a much loved and adored classic story, expectations have to be met that this isn't a quaint murder mystery following on from P&P.
It's a story based on supernatural. For avid fans of the original, this is jarring.
The supernatural element of this story is very prominent at one stage and is written unquestioning, without any other option being possible. Having read Laura Purcell and many other paranormal novels, the magic of the story is:
1) You're reading a paranormal based story
2) It's hinted, but never truly confirmed, leaving the possible fantastical element of the story up to the reader and their beliefs.
This force fed it to you and then sprinkled it with chanting and candlework.
I enjoyed it but I am open minded to other worldly events and beings. It didn't bother me and I loved being pulled into this novel.
Thanks to Netgallery & Carrie Bebris for the ALC in return for my honest option
January 2, 2026
Was a great read until the utterly disappointing ending
January 18, 2026
really nice Jane Austen style read
March 16, 2026
I was honestly blown away by this book, I was expecting something along the lines of a cosy murder mystery vibe book with the Darcy's. Instead I got a slow burn gothic tale about a woman supposedly going mad, curses, hexes and two pairs of newlyweds that just can't seem to catch a break.
You have a fantastic cast of characters here, from the Austin originals who could have walked straight out of the original, to some new ones for this book, who slot in perfectly with the rest. The fact this book has somehow managed to make Caroline Bingley almost sympathetic at times, while still retaining who she is, is almost worth the rating alone. I hope we will see more of Georgina in later books, she was always my favourite 'minor' character from P&P.
The tension as this builds up and up is delightful, the peril in the title is not misleading, and these characters go through so much as we build up towards the climax. From near misses with purse snatchers to a dangerous horse ride, to a many near brushes with death, the story knows for the most part, how to set the pace perfectly. It's only in the denouement that it perhaps rushes ahead, as I maybe thought the ending a little rushed and the fact the villain was willing to monologue to everyone a tad predictable but this was just too entertaining to not give five stars to. Even if I didn't expect the swerve into a different genre at the end. I tend to listen to my audio books on the commute to and from work, but this drew me into to such an extent that I ended up listening to the whole thing in a single day.
I eagerly await another in the series!
The narrator was perfect for the setting, she had that rich, 'plummy' voice that sooths while seeming at home in this time period.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
You have a fantastic cast of characters here, from the Austin originals who could have walked straight out of the original, to some new ones for this book, who slot in perfectly with the rest. The fact this book has somehow managed to make Caroline Bingley almost sympathetic at times, while still retaining who she is, is almost worth the rating alone. I hope we will see more of Georgina in later books, she was always my favourite 'minor' character from P&P.
The tension as this builds up and up is delightful, the peril in the title is not misleading, and these characters go through so much as we build up towards the climax. From near misses with purse snatchers to a dangerous horse ride, to a many near brushes with death, the story knows for the most part, how to set the pace perfectly. It's only in the denouement that it perhaps rushes ahead, as I maybe thought the ending a little rushed and the fact the villain was willing to monologue to everyone a tad predictable but this was just too entertaining to not give five stars to. Even if I didn't expect the swerve into a different genre at the end. I tend to listen to my audio books on the commute to and from work, but this drew me into to such an extent that I ended up listening to the whole thing in a single day.
I eagerly await another in the series!
The narrator was perfect for the setting, she had that rich, 'plummy' voice that sooths while seeming at home in this time period.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
May 7, 2026
I was given the opportunity to read Pride & Peril in an advanced listening copy, and this audiobook did not disappoint. Pride & Peril is a fun twist on Jane Austen’s characters from Pride and Prejudice, meeting the newly married Mr. and Mrs. Darcy as they become embroiled in a series of mysterious events that seem to be surrounding the newly engaged Ms. Caroline Bingley and her American suitor.
As the tension and suspense builds Elizabeth and Darcy try to untangle the mystery before worse events can happen. Of course, they each are astute observers and sleuths, but they also have different theories of what may be the cause of the chaos surrounding them. With typical Elizabeth and Darcy pride (and stubbornness) we’re left a hoping they can find a way to work together to sort everything out before further tragedies unfold.
Carrie Bebris does a wonderful job of taking the characters that we love (and sometimes possibly loathe) and constructing a compelling narrative that keeps readers guessing at each turn. I found myself vacillating between Elizabeth and Darcy’s hypotheses as the stakes continued to raise. Without giving anything away, Bebris leaves enough clues and breadcrumbs for the conclusion to feel satisfying yet still a bit surprising.
Antonia Beamish’s narration helped capture the emotions and narratives and enhanced the overall reading experience. Each character’s individual voice was clear and fitting for their particular characteristics.
As the tension and suspense builds Elizabeth and Darcy try to untangle the mystery before worse events can happen. Of course, they each are astute observers and sleuths, but they also have different theories of what may be the cause of the chaos surrounding them. With typical Elizabeth and Darcy pride (and stubbornness) we’re left a hoping they can find a way to work together to sort everything out before further tragedies unfold.
Carrie Bebris does a wonderful job of taking the characters that we love (and sometimes possibly loathe) and constructing a compelling narrative that keeps readers guessing at each turn. I found myself vacillating between Elizabeth and Darcy’s hypotheses as the stakes continued to raise. Without giving anything away, Bebris leaves enough clues and breadcrumbs for the conclusion to feel satisfying yet still a bit surprising.
Antonia Beamish’s narration helped capture the emotions and narratives and enhanced the overall reading experience. Each character’s individual voice was clear and fitting for their particular characteristics.
January 29, 2026
This was a fun and cozy read. The audiobook was fantastic and made the experience much more entertaining.
I love Pride and Prejudice and seeing the characters here again was great. This even if it it's own story flows in a similar way as Jane Austen novel does. The characters behave as they would do it in Pride and Prejudice, portraying similar roles and with the reactions you would expect from them.
The mystery is interesting and the novel is quite fun to listen to. I loved all the details int he story and how well written it was. The little quotes from Pride and Prejudice at the beginning of each chapter were a really good addition to the novel.
This is a fast paced read, even if a lot it's going on in it, and sometimes you can miss some details, but overall it was really fun even if predictable.
The only part that I didn't love was the ending, I was expecting something rather different, I understand why that choice but I wanted something else to happen. I'm still curious to read the other books in this series are the stories appeal to me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Wavesound for an ALC of this novel, all opinions are my own.
I love Pride and Prejudice and seeing the characters here again was great. This even if it it's own story flows in a similar way as Jane Austen novel does. The characters behave as they would do it in Pride and Prejudice, portraying similar roles and with the reactions you would expect from them.
The mystery is interesting and the novel is quite fun to listen to. I loved all the details int he story and how well written it was. The little quotes from Pride and Prejudice at the beginning of each chapter were a really good addition to the novel.
This is a fast paced read, even if a lot it's going on in it, and sometimes you can miss some details, but overall it was really fun even if predictable.
The only part that I didn't love was the ending, I was expecting something rather different, I understand why that choice but I wanted something else to happen. I'm still curious to read the other books in this series are the stories appeal to me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Wavesound for an ALC of this novel, all opinions are my own.
March 16, 2026
I love Pride and Prejudice so this was brilliant!
It felt like a sequel but also a cosy mystery novel. The characters were the same ones we know and love.form the classic, spending time at Netherfield and Longbourn (although sadly we never got to go back to Pemberley).
If you're not a fan of P&P then I think it would be difficult to read this as a lot of the character development relies on knowledge of the original characters.
I will say that I didn't like the ending. Without giving spoilers, it was very fanciful and jarring.
If you're a fan of P&P, definitely read this (but maybe suspend your feeling of disbelief!)
It felt like a sequel but also a cosy mystery novel. The characters were the same ones we know and love.form the classic, spending time at Netherfield and Longbourn (although sadly we never got to go back to Pemberley).
If you're not a fan of P&P then I think it would be difficult to read this as a lot of the character development relies on knowledge of the original characters.
I will say that I didn't like the ending. Without giving spoilers, it was very fanciful and jarring.
If you're a fan of P&P, definitely read this (but maybe suspend your feeling of disbelief!)
April 2, 2026
This book takes up shortly after the successfully concluded nuptials of the Darcys - a literary power couple, if there ever was one. But the additional talent that emerges from this formidable duo in the course of this story is a most unexpected talent for sleuthing...
An enjoyable piece of story-telling nicely delivered by the narrator, this will go down well with Jane Austen fans - especially those familiar with the characters from the original story - who crave more of Darcy and Elizabeth. It easily earns 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
An enjoyable piece of story-telling nicely delivered by the narrator, this will go down well with Jane Austen fans - especially those familiar with the characters from the original story - who crave more of Darcy and Elizabeth. It easily earns 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
May 5, 2026
This book was just what I needed for a slow weekend at the beach. Bebris captured the language of Austen enjoyably. As far as the denouement is concerned, I would say that it was reasonably well telegraphed so, if one contined to read one had a fair idea where the story was headed. One keeps reading, not necessarily to identify the villian but for the sheer pleasure of inhabiting the Bennettverse.
The last paragraph might, however, have been better for a robust editting.
Annie's has my order for "Suspense and Sensibility".
The last paragraph might, however, have been better for a robust editting.
Annie's has my order for "Suspense and Sensibility".
June 3, 2026
Although a 'total' farce as a sequel to P&P, this light, fun murder mystery was good in keeping the world alive enough to distract and enjoy. More a 'character' driven story than that of the mystery, which is how I think 'Jane' would have done it, if she ever thought about a mystery, without all the gothic entrails. Will now read the second one in the series, just to see how she will connect the 'two' worlds of the Dashwoods and Darcys. Suitable for teens and adults, especially those of P&P admiration, which I hope won't disappoint too much.
May 24, 2026
Beautifully narrated by Antonia Beamish, this was a charmingly mysterious sequel to one of my favourite classics.
I am a big Austen fan and find many of these spin offs quite jarring, but Bebris kept me guessing and I really enjoyed this audio book.
Thank you to Bebris, Beamish, NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to review.
I am a big Austen fan and find many of these spin offs quite jarring, but Bebris kept me guessing and I really enjoyed this audio book.
Thank you to Bebris, Beamish, NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to review.
January 22, 2026
I enjoyed the book and found to be a nice comfy read - great for the Christmas holidays.
I also enjoyed how to flowed in a very Jane Austen way - the characters played their parts just like they did in Pride and Prejudice, creating a similar dynamic.
I also enjoyed how to flowed in a very Jane Austen way - the characters played their parts just like they did in Pride and Prejudice, creating a similar dynamic.
February 20, 2026
Completely true to the original characters and utterly engrossing, Pride and Peril is an outstanding, genre-bending, mystery.
Mr Darcy is as attractive in this tale as he is attentive to his new bride. Elizabeth has married her equal, it seems!
Mr Darcy is as attractive in this tale as he is attentive to his new bride. Elizabeth has married her equal, it seems!
March 16, 2026
This was weird. It started out well enough and reading about the familiar characters was comforting. It soon took a turn towards the supernatural which, for me, didn't sit well in the world created by Jane Austen. A regular, non-magic related murder near the end improved it a bit.
January 7, 2026
Fun but predictable!
January 15, 2026
So much going on. Very fast paced read.
February 3, 2026
I really enjoyed the book... for a while. Then there was no twist or mystery or surprise at the end. It was just as it seemed from the beginning.
Very disappointing.
Very disappointing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2026
A nice little cozy read that I enjoyed, despite the slightly bizarre ending.
March 27, 2026
A fun and mysterious continuation of an old favourite.
March 27, 2026
Slow start, but an enjoyable Austen-inspired cozy mystery (cozy until the ending… didn’t love that)!
March 30, 2026
I don’t usually love stories with a supernatural element, but this was so well written and engaging! I loved being able to go back and read more from Mr and Mrs Darcy! My favourite fictional couple!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2026
‘It was really good until it wasn’t’
I’m sure I read this review but can’t find it to acknowledge the author but totally agree.
Less excited about book 2 but received them both for Christmas… we’ll see what is dished up!
I’m sure I read this review but can’t find it to acknowledge the author but totally agree.
Less excited about book 2 but received them both for Christmas… we’ll see what is dished up!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews