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What if Jane was married?: A Pride & Prejudice variation
The title says it all.
Three novellas exploring three different scenarios where Jane is no longer a Bennet and has left Longbourn as a married woman.
It is three re-imaginings of the beloved story.
There are moments of whimsy and downright silliness in each of the novellas.
As for Happy Ever After? Well two out of three ain't bad !
Three novellas exploring three different scenarios where Jane is no longer a Bennet and has left Longbourn as a married woman.
It is three re-imaginings of the beloved story.
There are moments of whimsy and downright silliness in each of the novellas.
As for Happy Ever After? Well two out of three ain't bad !
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 26, 2025
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9 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 13, 2025
Fun, but desperately needs proofreading and editing
Three short stories that explore the impact of Jane's prior marriage on the dynamic of the Bennett family when "Netherfield Park is let at last." In each one the success of Jane's marriage is different. These are not Elizabeth and Darcy stories, since the other remaining daughters figure just as largely as Lizzy.
This author is clever and humorous, and the characters are satisfyingly forthright and plain speaking. The stories were all engaging, and I would have loved to rate this more highly but for two major reservations. First is the complete lack of editing and proof reading. On every page there's something wrong: punctuation missing or incorrect; fragmented sentences galore; words missing, used incorrectly, or misspelled. Second, there's a lot of language and idioms used that I doubt were in use during this era, and their usage kind of takes the reader out of the story. It's disruptive. However, I enjoyed the book.
Three short stories that explore the impact of Jane's prior marriage on the dynamic of the Bennett family when "Netherfield Park is let at last." In each one the success of Jane's marriage is different. These are not Elizabeth and Darcy stories, since the other remaining daughters figure just as largely as Lizzy.
This author is clever and humorous, and the characters are satisfyingly forthright and plain speaking. The stories were all engaging, and I would have loved to rate this more highly but for two major reservations. First is the complete lack of editing and proof reading. On every page there's something wrong: punctuation missing or incorrect; fragmented sentences galore; words missing, used incorrectly, or misspelled. Second, there's a lot of language and idioms used that I doubt were in use during this era, and their usage kind of takes the reader out of the story. It's disruptive. However, I enjoyed the book.
September 15, 2025
Eclectic mix
An unusual and darker in tone collection of three variations inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Gruinard.
An unusual and darker in tone collection of three variations inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Gruinard.
September 25, 2025
Stark contrasts
3.5* rounded up
These variations on the same theme are unique. It was a quick read, and despite the grammatical errors, it was entertaining to see the impact of Jane's marriage in the canon events of the assembly.
3.5* rounded up
These variations on the same theme are unique. It was a quick read, and despite the grammatical errors, it was entertaining to see the impact of Jane's marriage in the canon events of the assembly.
September 7, 2025
Clever changes
What if Jane was already married and therefore unavailable to Charles Bingley? The author presents some creative ideas in three tales of how that might have played out for all concerned. I especially enjoyed Elizabeth’s managing of the Bennet parents. She is portrayed as a stronger than usual character which also affects the relationship dynamics. Would be improved with better editing.
What if Jane was already married and therefore unavailable to Charles Bingley? The author presents some creative ideas in three tales of how that might have played out for all concerned. I especially enjoyed Elizabeth’s managing of the Bennet parents. She is portrayed as a stronger than usual character which also affects the relationship dynamics. Would be improved with better editing.
October 12, 2025
I liked this collection of three stories with a similar theme, but it had many editing and proofreading failures.
Even though the first story was sad, I found it worth reading.
Even though the first story was sad, I found it worth reading.
September 19, 2025
Book 1. The story was good, but I am so glad it was short! It was interesting and I could hardly stop reading it to see what would happen next! Such tragedy and unpleasantness! I guess in the end all five daughters were happy (at least somewhat), but wow, what some of them went through to get there was amazing. Bingley was mind-bogglingly stupid and Darcy, OMG, what an ass. I do think it is a good thing that the one book without an HEA for ODC is the first.
Book 2. When I started reading this story, after the first three chapters, I wondered if it was going to be as awful as the first. By awful, I mean the Bennet parents, Lydia, and Lizzie's unhappiness. But Darcy took a period of introspection and redeemed himself in a spectacular way. He had decided to be more honest without the nastiness - resulting in his finally telling Miss Bingley she would never be Mrs. Darcy. At Bingley's wedding to Charlotte, Darcy met Lizzie and had an enjoyable talk with her. He began calling on her at Gracechurch street (by then she was essentially banished to London). When he told her of Ramsgate, she said she didn't want to see him again until he dealt with Wickham and finally put his sister first. Woohoo! It went on that the four oldest sisters had reasonably happy marriages, if not ecstatically happy like ODC.
Book 3. Saved the best for last! Book 2 was good, but I liked this one very much! With the marriage of Jane to a bold, decorated naval captain, Lizzie learned a lot about being bold and how to manipulate people, and it was hilarious in places. She is not at home when the Netherfield party arrives, but when Darcy spouts THE INSULT to Mary, she writes to Lizzie about it. Lizzie comes home immediately, and after discussing the full story with Mary, and spending time learning about Mr. Darcy and the Netherfield party, she spectacularly insults Darcy at Lucas Lodge, using his own words from the insult to Mary against him. I have long wanted to read something like that, but this was even better than any of my daydreams about it. After storming out into the night and getting lost for a while, he calms down and realizes what a jerk he was. The next day he apologizes to Mary and the Bennets. He realizes what a special person Lizzie is and eventually courts and marries her.
I wanted to give this five stars, but the lack of that last star is due to the poor editing. Is it really that difficult to find someone to proofread a book before it is published? I have proofread (for free) for a number of authors, and it is not that difficult.
Book 2. When I started reading this story, after the first three chapters, I wondered if it was going to be as awful as the first. By awful, I mean the Bennet parents, Lydia, and Lizzie's unhappiness. But Darcy took a period of introspection and redeemed himself in a spectacular way. He had decided to be more honest without the nastiness - resulting in his finally telling Miss Bingley she would never be Mrs. Darcy. At Bingley's wedding to Charlotte, Darcy met Lizzie and had an enjoyable talk with her. He began calling on her at Gracechurch street (by then she was essentially banished to London). When he told her of Ramsgate, she said she didn't want to see him again until he dealt with Wickham and finally put his sister first. Woohoo! It went on that the four oldest sisters had reasonably happy marriages, if not ecstatically happy like ODC.
Book 3. Saved the best for last! Book 2 was good, but I liked this one very much! With the marriage of Jane to a bold, decorated naval captain, Lizzie learned a lot about being bold and how to manipulate people, and it was hilarious in places. She is not at home when the Netherfield party arrives, but when Darcy spouts THE INSULT to Mary, she writes to Lizzie about it. Lizzie comes home immediately, and after discussing the full story with Mary, and spending time learning about Mr. Darcy and the Netherfield party, she spectacularly insults Darcy at Lucas Lodge, using his own words from the insult to Mary against him. I have long wanted to read something like that, but this was even better than any of my daydreams about it. After storming out into the night and getting lost for a while, he calms down and realizes what a jerk he was. The next day he apologizes to Mary and the Bennets. He realizes what a special person Lizzie is and eventually courts and marries her.
I wanted to give this five stars, but the lack of that last star is due to the poor editing. Is it really that difficult to find someone to proofread a book before it is published? I have proofread (for free) for a number of authors, and it is not that difficult.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 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. The title says it all, this is three novellas exploring three different scenarios where Jane is no longer a Bennet and has left Longbourn as a married woman. It is three re-imaginings of the beloved classic story. There are moments of whimsy and downright silliness in each of the novellas. As for Happy Ever After? Well two out of three ain't bad. 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. The title says it all, this is three novellas exploring three different scenarios where Jane is no longer a Bennet and has left Longbourn as a married woman. It is three re-imaginings of the beloved classic story. There are moments of whimsy and downright silliness in each of the novellas. As for Happy Ever After? Well two out of three ain't bad. 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 2, 2025
Iffy. Very iffy.
I am a staunch supporter of the JAFF Golden Rule that Our Dear Couple gets their Happy Ever After (capitals are for those who have not been long in the Jane Austen Fan Fiction world, and don’t know the shorthand used.)
The first story represents what would happen if no one overcame their pride and prejudice. I am glad I read it, but it breaks the Golden Rule. Interesting, but I would not recommend it.
The other two stories are good, but not great. The Golden Rule is upheld, but the stories are kind of flat. No real energy for the world created in the respective variations.
I have enjoyed this author’s other works immensely. I am wondering if these shorter stories are early works. It would explain the difference in the storytelling between this compilation of stories as opposed to the novels. Overall I would not recommend this unless you have nothing else to read.
I am a staunch supporter of the JAFF Golden Rule that Our Dear Couple gets their Happy Ever After (capitals are for those who have not been long in the Jane Austen Fan Fiction world, and don’t know the shorthand used.)
The first story represents what would happen if no one overcame their pride and prejudice. I am glad I read it, but it breaks the Golden Rule. Interesting, but I would not recommend it.
The other two stories are good, but not great. The Golden Rule is upheld, but the stories are kind of flat. No real energy for the world created in the respective variations.
I have enjoyed this author’s other works immensely. I am wondering if these shorter stories are early works. It would explain the difference in the storytelling between this compilation of stories as opposed to the novels. Overall I would not recommend this unless you have nothing else to read.
December 1, 2025
Strange, Okay, and Adorable
The first story was sad and strange but teaches a truthful lesson if one wants to learn it: don't marry a stranger. Take the time to get to know the person that you hopefully will actually stay with until 'death do you part'. Divorce is not a success.
The second story was okay. Jane was not married to an ogre, but neither was she happy. I love how supportive Elizabeth is (in each one.)
The last is by far my favorite. ODC have a rocky beginning, but Elizabeth's well-written set down of Darcy actually changes his thinking and sets him on a new course. I loved Jane's husband and his influence on the entire Bennet family (minus Lydia). When forced, Mr Bennet can be an effective steward of the Longbourn estate. It is a shame that love for his family never motivated him. The way Elizabeth dealt with all other troublesome people is wonderfully written also.
The first story was sad and strange but teaches a truthful lesson if one wants to learn it: don't marry a stranger. Take the time to get to know the person that you hopefully will actually stay with until 'death do you part'. Divorce is not a success.
The second story was okay. Jane was not married to an ogre, but neither was she happy. I love how supportive Elizabeth is (in each one.)
The last is by far my favorite. ODC have a rocky beginning, but Elizabeth's well-written set down of Darcy actually changes his thinking and sets him on a new course. I loved Jane's husband and his influence on the entire Bennet family (minus Lydia). When forced, Mr Bennet can be an effective steward of the Longbourn estate. It is a shame that love for his family never motivated him. The way Elizabeth dealt with all other troublesome people is wonderfully written also.
September 8, 2025
It’s title tells all
There three versions of P&P with Jane being married. I feel the first version was so bleak I nearly did not read the next two versions.
However as you can read I did read them. Thankfully they were so much better.
The reason for a star deduction was my disappointment in the first version and the confusion I felt while reading these versions. I was able to figure it out, but it was a hindrance.
There three versions of P&P with Jane being married. I feel the first version was so bleak I nearly did not read the next two versions.
However as you can read I did read them. Thankfully they were so much better.
The reason for a star deduction was my disappointment in the first version and the confusion I felt while reading these versions. I was able to figure it out, but it was a hindrance.
September 15, 2025
Three short stories consider how the Bennets’ family dynamics may be affected if Jane is married early, prior to the Bingley party’s arrival at Netherfield. Each story is interesting and are, in order, sad, better and, finally, happy. I enjoyed reading the stories but they are not well edited and that detracted some from the pleasure of the tales. It is a unique idea and is worth reading for that alone.
November 12, 2025
intriguing
The concept is very interesting. What happen in P&P storyline without Jane? I was Very happy to read to each variation. Each progressed well and were so different. The first of the three I did not care for because it was too much like reading Dickens. I don’t read P&P variations for “reality and no romance” (with ODC). However, the other two novellas saved the day and made this book worth reading.
The concept is very interesting. What happen in P&P storyline without Jane? I was Very happy to read to each variation. Each progressed well and were so different. The first of the three I did not care for because it was too much like reading Dickens. I don’t read P&P variations for “reality and no romance” (with ODC). However, the other two novellas saved the day and made this book worth reading.
December 8, 2025
Worth the read
Very short stories. The first story is the worst and each story after gets better than the next. I don't mean the story writing is the worst; just the actual story itself. I find, that the stories themselves has little to nothing to do with the title of the book except that Jane is married first of all the Bennet sisters. The stories focuses on all the Bennet daughters and the bad parenting of their father and mother. I enjoyed it! Thank you, Gruinard!
Very short stories. The first story is the worst and each story after gets better than the next. I don't mean the story writing is the worst; just the actual story itself. I find, that the stories themselves has little to nothing to do with the title of the book except that Jane is married first of all the Bennet sisters. The stories focuses on all the Bennet daughters and the bad parenting of their father and mother. I enjoyed it! Thank you, Gruinard!
December 20, 2025
I Couldn’t Finish
Even after skipping to Book 3, as mentioned by one of the reviewers. This author needs at least a professional proofreader and preferably a professional editor.
She does not lack creativity, but it is being smothered by poor grammar, lack of proper punctuation, missing words. The book would best be withdrawn and polished, then reissued. I hope this happens , for I, for one, would enjoy reading it.
Even after skipping to Book 3, as mentioned by one of the reviewers. This author needs at least a professional proofreader and preferably a professional editor.
She does not lack creativity, but it is being smothered by poor grammar, lack of proper punctuation, missing words. The book would best be withdrawn and polished, then reissued. I hope this happens , for I, for one, would enjoy reading it.
September 13, 2025
Interesting variations
Rated 3 stars down from 3.5 due to numerous editing errors. The stories are interesting “what if?” scenarios, with many variations from the original Austen book. The characters are well-developed and the storylines are believable. All in all, an enjoyable read.
Rated 3 stars down from 3.5 due to numerous editing errors. The stories are interesting “what if?” scenarios, with many variations from the original Austen book. The characters are well-developed and the storylines are believable. All in all, an enjoyable read.
September 29, 2025
Enjoyed the three novellas but
Enjoyed the three novellas but the prose was interrupted by a lack of editing. Interesting to see how the Bennet family's fates are influenced by Jane's marriage. The storytelling is well done except for the occasional missing word or misplaced estate (Pemberley for Longbourn).
Enjoyed the three novellas but the prose was interrupted by a lack of editing. Interesting to see how the Bennet family's fates are influenced by Jane's marriage. The storytelling is well done except for the occasional missing word or misplaced estate (Pemberley for Longbourn).
October 13, 2025
3 very different scenarios
The three stories were all different but oddly very satisfying. I really enjoyed this book. The one thing in common was that Bennet parents were not placed in a positive light in any of the three stories. Mary had some time in the spotlight, as did Kitty. Wickham did not get much attention.
This was a very entertaining What-If.
The three stories were all different but oddly very satisfying. I really enjoyed this book. The one thing in common was that Bennet parents were not placed in a positive light in any of the three stories. Mary had some time in the spotlight, as did Kitty. Wickham did not get much attention.
This was a very entertaining What-If.
September 15, 2025
3 good stories, but......
Desperately needs an edit. A lot of words missing in sentences throughout the 3 stories.
Also, the word " Okey" would not have been used! Sorry to be pedantic , but if your going to try to follow Jane Austen, so it right, be thorough.
Desperately needs an edit. A lot of words missing in sentences throughout the 3 stories.
Also, the word " Okey" would not have been used! Sorry to be pedantic , but if your going to try to follow Jane Austen, so it right, be thorough.
September 24, 2025
Unedited and uneven
The first "book" was by far the worst, but it is difficult to understand why an author wouldn't at least enlist beta readers to help. Interesting ideas, mediocre execution.
The first "book" was by far the worst, but it is difficult to understand why an author wouldn't at least enlist beta readers to help. Interesting ideas, mediocre execution.
September 5, 2025
execellent
I am always pleased to find a new book by this author—this was a fun read for all 3 short stories.
I am always pleased to find a new book by this author—this was a fun read for all 3 short stories.
September 7, 2025
Unexpected pairing
I loved Jane's steel backbone, Lizzie's audacity and Mary and Kittie's fortitude. Loved it so very very very much. Huzza!
I loved Jane's steel backbone, Lizzie's audacity and Mary and Kittie's fortitude. Loved it so very very very much. Huzza!
September 10, 2025
Interesting
A fabulous read that keeps you guessing on what will happen next and who ends up together. Will Lydia marry Wickham, will Kitty Marry?
A fabulous read that keeps you guessing on what will happen next and who ends up together. Will Lydia marry Wickham, will Kitty Marry?
September 13, 2025
Mmm what a book!!
I have read all this authors works and the quality remains. These 3 stories are brilliant. It's nice that Jane becomes more than a cardboard cutout.
I have read all this authors works and the quality remains. These 3 stories are brilliant. It's nice that Jane becomes more than a cardboard cutout.
November 5, 2025
Entertaining but too many typos
Fun plot twists but riddled with errors. A decent editing job before publishing would have bumped it to 4 stars.
Fun plot twists but riddled with errors. A decent editing job before publishing would have bumped it to 4 stars.
Read
November 6, 2025Dnf
November 9, 2025
great stories
One of the best JAFF collections ever
Well written with interesting plots. Liked the characters too.
Will read more of this author.
One of the best JAFF collections ever
Well written with interesting plots. Liked the characters too.
Will read more of this author.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews