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The Princess Problem: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
He doesn’t believe in fairy tales. She’s living one she can’t escape.
Elizabeth Bennet has always known her father was a prince, she simply never expected it to matter. Living quietly in Hertfordshire with her mother’s family, her royal blood seems irrelevant. But just after her eighteenth birthday, an envoy from the Thurnian court arrives with an her grandfather the king wishes to welcome her into the royal family.
Miles away in Derbyshire, Fitzwilliam Darcy faces pressure of his own. His uncle the earl wants him to reclaim a title stripped from his family hundreds of years ago. Having both family and friends who are members of the aristocracy, Darcy knows firsthand that such a life holds no appeal for a man who values his independence.
When a winter storm strands them together at a remote inn, the last thing Darcy expects is to encounter a young woman claiming to be a Thurnian princess. Because he knows Thurnia has no princesses, he is certain she’s lying. Yet as their uneasy journey continues and the behaviour of her chaperone grows increasingly odd, Darcy begins to suspect that the deception hides more than a fanciful tale, and that uncovering the truth may actually be dangerous.
What begins as a chance encounter in a snowbound inn becomes a journey where treachery reveals a nobility no title could ever bestow.
The Princess Problem is the fourth standalone novel in the Darcy & Elizabeth Rom Com Collection.
*This is a full-length novel of approximately 90,000 words
Elizabeth Bennet has always known her father was a prince, she simply never expected it to matter. Living quietly in Hertfordshire with her mother’s family, her royal blood seems irrelevant. But just after her eighteenth birthday, an envoy from the Thurnian court arrives with an her grandfather the king wishes to welcome her into the royal family.
Miles away in Derbyshire, Fitzwilliam Darcy faces pressure of his own. His uncle the earl wants him to reclaim a title stripped from his family hundreds of years ago. Having both family and friends who are members of the aristocracy, Darcy knows firsthand that such a life holds no appeal for a man who values his independence.
When a winter storm strands them together at a remote inn, the last thing Darcy expects is to encounter a young woman claiming to be a Thurnian princess. Because he knows Thurnia has no princesses, he is certain she’s lying. Yet as their uneasy journey continues and the behaviour of her chaperone grows increasingly odd, Darcy begins to suspect that the deception hides more than a fanciful tale, and that uncovering the truth may actually be dangerous.
What begins as a chance encounter in a snowbound inn becomes a journey where treachery reveals a nobility no title could ever bestow.
The Princess Problem is the fourth standalone novel in the Darcy & Elizabeth Rom Com Collection.
*This is a full-length novel of approximately 90,000 words
- GenresForced Proximity
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 12, 2026
80 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 15, 2026
A different kind of Pride and Prejudice where Elizabeth displays grace and Darcy doesn’t quite believe. Together they overcome and learn to respect and depend on each other. The story was face paced and I could not put it down.
January 9, 2026
This story employs the Elizabeth is not a Bennett trope and is thoroughly delightful. Elizabeth’s character is well drawn and one that Austen readers will recognize. She is witty, stubborn, playful, and brave. Austen readers will recognize Mr. Darcy’s character as well. He remains haughty and arrogant throughout much of the book. Elizabeth is a princess who has knowingly been brought up by the Bennetts. Circumstances and a nasty winter storm throw Elizabeth and Darcy together and he does not believe she is truly a princess. In spite of his doubts, he is still inexplicably drawn to Elizabeth. She finds herself warming to him as well, though she resists the feeling because of his assumptions and arrogance.
A number of plot twists and turns will keep readers riveted wondering what will happen next. Several of the usual characters are missing from this story - the Bingleys, Lady Catherine (she is mentioned briefly), Wickham. However their absence will not be missed. Other characters are introduced and villainy is certainly present.
The book is well-edited and will capture P&P fans’ interest and keep them turning the pages.
I was given an ARC in exchange for a review. The book is expected to be published in February.
A number of plot twists and turns will keep readers riveted wondering what will happen next. Several of the usual characters are missing from this story - the Bingleys, Lady Catherine (she is mentioned briefly), Wickham. However their absence will not be missed. Other characters are introduced and villainy is certainly present.
The book is well-edited and will capture P&P fans’ interest and keep them turning the pages.
I was given an ARC in exchange for a review. The book is expected to be published in February.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Elizabeth knows she is a princess by birth, but as she grew up with her relatives, the Bennets, it didn’t matter. Until now. Now, as she just turned eighteen an invitation from the Thurnian King arrives who wants to welcome his granddaughter into the royal family. Despite it being winter, she and the Thurnain ambassador are to depart soon.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is on his way to London to meet his sister and face family matters when he is surprised by a snow storm. Confined to an inn, he faces a young girl whose companion claims that she is a Thurnian princess. Darcy thinks her a liar because he knows for a certainty that there are no princesses living in Thurnia.
When circumstances force them to continue their journey together Darcy observes the puzzling behaviour of Elizabeth's companion and her own conduct and he suspects that not all is as it seems.
Is Darcy’s suspicion correct? Will he be able to find out the truth about the princess and her odd companion? And will this encounter leave his heart undamaged?
The book was very well written by the author Melanie Rachel. I always like her variations very much and have therefore thoroughly enjoyed her new story. I must confess that, at first, I was not so sure what to expect because “Elizabeth is not a Bennet” is not my favorite trope. But let me assure you, Elizabeth is very much the Elizabeth Bennet we know because she was raised by the Bennet Family but has a royal parent.
I liked the Bennet family so very much in this variation. Due to the changed family ties the girls are better educated and especially Mrs Bennet and the younger girls are better behaved. I loved the warmth with which they interact with one another and that Elizabeth is a real part of their family. A beautiful picture.
The story takes place shortly after Elizabeth’s eighteen’s birthday. You can well recognize her character from the original story but, in my opinion, sometimes she lacks wit and cleverness, especially when confronted with her companion. With Darcy she quarrels but her companion can do as she pleases, Elizabeth is only embarrassed but does not put her in her place - besides her being the princess. Maybe it is due to her young age that she sees no way to confront an older lady, but quarreling and fighting with Darcy she does with her usual wit.
Darcy was, on the one hand, a real hero in this story but, on the other hand, he was not all the time really quick to understand. It took him ages to acknowledge that Elizabeth was in fact a princess, and he only is willing to acknowledge it after a man tells him the same that Elizabeth told him all the time. That was a bit vexing. But I really loved his gentlemanly behaviour and his willingness to do everything to save Elizabeth from a dangerous situation.
I really loved the simmering attraction and feelings between Darcy and Elizabeth. They are aware of one another from the very first moment but their different opinions about the princess problem keeps them apart for a long time.
I really love that some dried peas, like in another fairy tale, have a very prominent role in this book =) . I will not tell more, but especially at the end they have a very important and sweet role. But you need to read and smile for yourself.
The book is mostly about Darcy and Elizabeth and their traveling companions. Whereas I liked Darcy's coachman and his assistant I found Elizabeth's main travel companion, Mrs Hobart, rather annoying - but at the same time she is perfect to laugh about because of her follies.
The story takes place before the original events of Pride and Prejudice and none of the usual villains is a part of it. You definitely need to discover for yourself if there are any villains at all and, if there are any, what are their motifs 😉.
If you like to know how an accidental meeting at an inn and a heated quarrel about the princess problem will lead to happiness for Elizabeth and Darcy you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is on his way to London to meet his sister and face family matters when he is surprised by a snow storm. Confined to an inn, he faces a young girl whose companion claims that she is a Thurnian princess. Darcy thinks her a liar because he knows for a certainty that there are no princesses living in Thurnia.
When circumstances force them to continue their journey together Darcy observes the puzzling behaviour of Elizabeth's companion and her own conduct and he suspects that not all is as it seems.
Is Darcy’s suspicion correct? Will he be able to find out the truth about the princess and her odd companion? And will this encounter leave his heart undamaged?
The book was very well written by the author Melanie Rachel. I always like her variations very much and have therefore thoroughly enjoyed her new story. I must confess that, at first, I was not so sure what to expect because “Elizabeth is not a Bennet” is not my favorite trope. But let me assure you, Elizabeth is very much the Elizabeth Bennet we know because she was raised by the Bennet Family but has a royal parent.
I liked the Bennet family so very much in this variation. Due to the changed family ties the girls are better educated and especially Mrs Bennet and the younger girls are better behaved. I loved the warmth with which they interact with one another and that Elizabeth is a real part of their family. A beautiful picture.
The story takes place shortly after Elizabeth’s eighteen’s birthday. You can well recognize her character from the original story but, in my opinion, sometimes she lacks wit and cleverness, especially when confronted with her companion. With Darcy she quarrels but her companion can do as she pleases, Elizabeth is only embarrassed but does not put her in her place - besides her being the princess. Maybe it is due to her young age that she sees no way to confront an older lady, but quarreling and fighting with Darcy she does with her usual wit.
Darcy was, on the one hand, a real hero in this story but, on the other hand, he was not all the time really quick to understand. It took him ages to acknowledge that Elizabeth was in fact a princess, and he only is willing to acknowledge it after a man tells him the same that Elizabeth told him all the time. That was a bit vexing. But I really loved his gentlemanly behaviour and his willingness to do everything to save Elizabeth from a dangerous situation.
I really loved the simmering attraction and feelings between Darcy and Elizabeth. They are aware of one another from the very first moment but their different opinions about the princess problem keeps them apart for a long time.
I really love that some dried peas, like in another fairy tale, have a very prominent role in this book =) . I will not tell more, but especially at the end they have a very important and sweet role. But you need to read and smile for yourself.
The book is mostly about Darcy and Elizabeth and their traveling companions. Whereas I liked Darcy's coachman and his assistant I found Elizabeth's main travel companion, Mrs Hobart, rather annoying - but at the same time she is perfect to laugh about because of her follies.
The story takes place before the original events of Pride and Prejudice and none of the usual villains is a part of it. You definitely need to discover for yourself if there are any villains at all and, if there are any, what are their motifs 😉.
If you like to know how an accidental meeting at an inn and a heated quarrel about the princess problem will lead to happiness for Elizabeth and Darcy you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2026
Another Gem for My Re‑Read Collection
The Princess Problem takes place a couple of years before canon, and what a delightful twist it offers. Elizabeth Bennet has always known she was a princess — someday her family would call for her — but she never expected it to happen so suddenly, or come when she turned eighteen. A royal summons turns her world upside down, shaking it up like a bad martini. As she’s swept into her new role, Elizabeth struggles to maintain her footing while constantly being reminded that a Princess of Thurnia and a Miss Bennet are expected to behave very differently. How does she embrace her new identity without losing the kind, generous, approachable Lizzy we love?
Meanwhile, nothing is going right for Darcy. His uncle is pressuring him into accepting something no one in the family has ever wanted. Georgiana’s melancholy weighs heavily on him. And now a snowstorm has stranded him at an unfamiliar inn — one where the amenities he’s accustomed to have already been claimed by someone else. Supposedly, a princess is staying there. That wouldn’t bother him… except he knows for certain that Thurnia has a plethora of princes, there's not a single princess.
So our story begins with a doubtful, petulant Darcy and an Elizabeth trying to find her balance while deflecting his pointed attacks on her character. Despite the turbulence tossing them about, an undercurrent of respect begins to grow into admiration. They share plenty of page time, with the narrative alternating between their perspectives, allowing their connection to develop in a wonderfully satisfying way.
I won’t say more about the plot, but I will say this: Melanie Rachel does not disappoint. Her humor — especially Darcy’s dry wit — had me snickering, laughing out loud, and even nearly choking on my popcorn at one point.
The Princess Problem firmly cements Melanie Rachel among my favorite authors. Her stories are filled with intrigue and energy between our dear couple while remaining sweet and clean. As I mentioned in the headline, this one has gone straight into my re‑read collection. Note: I read this as an Advanced Reader Copy. This is my honest opinion of the story.
The Princess Problem takes place a couple of years before canon, and what a delightful twist it offers. Elizabeth Bennet has always known she was a princess — someday her family would call for her — but she never expected it to happen so suddenly, or come when she turned eighteen. A royal summons turns her world upside down, shaking it up like a bad martini. As she’s swept into her new role, Elizabeth struggles to maintain her footing while constantly being reminded that a Princess of Thurnia and a Miss Bennet are expected to behave very differently. How does she embrace her new identity without losing the kind, generous, approachable Lizzy we love?
Meanwhile, nothing is going right for Darcy. His uncle is pressuring him into accepting something no one in the family has ever wanted. Georgiana’s melancholy weighs heavily on him. And now a snowstorm has stranded him at an unfamiliar inn — one where the amenities he’s accustomed to have already been claimed by someone else. Supposedly, a princess is staying there. That wouldn’t bother him… except he knows for certain that Thurnia has a plethora of princes, there's not a single princess.
So our story begins with a doubtful, petulant Darcy and an Elizabeth trying to find her balance while deflecting his pointed attacks on her character. Despite the turbulence tossing them about, an undercurrent of respect begins to grow into admiration. They share plenty of page time, with the narrative alternating between their perspectives, allowing their connection to develop in a wonderfully satisfying way.
I won’t say more about the plot, but I will say this: Melanie Rachel does not disappoint. Her humor — especially Darcy’s dry wit — had me snickering, laughing out loud, and even nearly choking on my popcorn at one point.
The Princess Problem firmly cements Melanie Rachel among my favorite authors. Her stories are filled with intrigue and energy between our dear couple while remaining sweet and clean. As I mentioned in the headline, this one has gone straight into my re‑read collection. Note: I read this as an Advanced Reader Copy. This is my honest opinion of the story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story is loosely inspired by the Princess and the pea, and peas play a small role in the story :-)
Elizabeth is a Thurian princess. Daughter of the King of Thurnia’s youngest son. Thurnia is a small fictional country and a island between Scotland and the Fareo Islands. Her mother was Mr Bennets sister. Both her parents passed away, when she was very young. Their marriage was controversial because her mother wasn’t from a noble family and for this reason she couldn’t wasn’t raised by the royal family, but she was taken in by the Bennets. She was loved by the Bennets like she was one of their own. Due to Elizabeth joining the family, her fortune paid for master and tutors, which benefited all the Bennet girls. Her fortune is big enough, that she can provide for herself, Mrs Bennet and the girls. So Mrs Bennet isn’t afraid of the hedgerows and the Bennets has a happy marriage.
The story starts when Elizabeth is 18. This the age of majority in Thurnia, and the political situation has changed, so the king wants Elizabeth to return to Thurnia.
So she decides to travel to Thurnia with a Thurian companion, they should meet up on the way with the envoy, who requested her return to Thurnia.
Mr Darcy on the other hand is worried about Georgiana, because he got a message from her school, that she is not thriving. So he is traveling from Pemberley to London to meet with Georgiana, while Elizabeth is travelling north. They get snowed in at the same Inn. Darcy doesn’t believe she is a real princess. He was in school with a prince from Thuria, who had told there were only princes there. So sparks are flying and there are a lot of arguing.
I will not reveal much more, but when Elizabeth finds herself in danger, he will do anything in his power to help her.
Dive in to this very well written story and enjoy :-)
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review
Elizabeth is a Thurian princess. Daughter of the King of Thurnia’s youngest son. Thurnia is a small fictional country and a island between Scotland and the Fareo Islands. Her mother was Mr Bennets sister. Both her parents passed away, when she was very young. Their marriage was controversial because her mother wasn’t from a noble family and for this reason she couldn’t wasn’t raised by the royal family, but she was taken in by the Bennets. She was loved by the Bennets like she was one of their own. Due to Elizabeth joining the family, her fortune paid for master and tutors, which benefited all the Bennet girls. Her fortune is big enough, that she can provide for herself, Mrs Bennet and the girls. So Mrs Bennet isn’t afraid of the hedgerows and the Bennets has a happy marriage.
The story starts when Elizabeth is 18. This the age of majority in Thurnia, and the political situation has changed, so the king wants Elizabeth to return to Thurnia.
So she decides to travel to Thurnia with a Thurian companion, they should meet up on the way with the envoy, who requested her return to Thurnia.
Mr Darcy on the other hand is worried about Georgiana, because he got a message from her school, that she is not thriving. So he is traveling from Pemberley to London to meet with Georgiana, while Elizabeth is travelling north. They get snowed in at the same Inn. Darcy doesn’t believe she is a real princess. He was in school with a prince from Thuria, who had told there were only princes there. So sparks are flying and there are a lot of arguing.
I will not reveal much more, but when Elizabeth finds herself in danger, he will do anything in his power to help her.
Dive in to this very well written story and enjoy :-)
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review
February 12, 2026
“Elizabeth Bennet had always known she was born a princess, but until recently, had considered it a harmless peculiarity.”
Thus begins Melanie Rachel’s wonderful new Pride and Prejudice variation… The Princess Problem, a twist on the classic fairytale, The Princess and the Pea. This story brings us all the things we love about Melanie’s writing: well-drawn characters, sparkling dialogue, and crisp pacing of the storyline. This newest addition to her Rom-Com line surprises with a significant change in characters. There are none of the familiar villains – Mr. Wickham, William Collins, or Caroline Bingley, but we do not miss them at all as the newest additions are so easy to love, or love to hate. We also see very different aspects of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy’s characters – Lizzy is vulnerable and confused, while Mr. Darcy is so difficult at first that I wished I could kick him in the shins more than once. Oh, but when the story (and the danger) heats up, it’s their true characters that shine through once again.
What I loved about this story:
- Elizabeth is kind, patient with her sisters, generous, humble and romantic.
- Darcy is suspicious, cautious, snide, sarcastic, but when he begins to understand the danger Elizabeth is in, it is totally sigh-worthy. “Darcy lowered his pistol slowly, his hand remarkably steady considering the turmoil still crawling in his chest. He should be thinking strategically, but his mind circled one inescapable fact: he had been willing to die for her.” Yes, Mr. Darcy is back and better than ever!
- Elizabeth’s royal cousin, Adrian, is warm, laughing, and had the subtlety of fireworks.
- Oh, and there’s even a shout out to Princess Bride!
So curl up with a glass of wine and enjoy a sweet, grown-up take on the classic fairytale, as only Melanie Rachel can tell it.
Thus begins Melanie Rachel’s wonderful new Pride and Prejudice variation… The Princess Problem, a twist on the classic fairytale, The Princess and the Pea. This story brings us all the things we love about Melanie’s writing: well-drawn characters, sparkling dialogue, and crisp pacing of the storyline. This newest addition to her Rom-Com line surprises with a significant change in characters. There are none of the familiar villains – Mr. Wickham, William Collins, or Caroline Bingley, but we do not miss them at all as the newest additions are so easy to love, or love to hate. We also see very different aspects of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy’s characters – Lizzy is vulnerable and confused, while Mr. Darcy is so difficult at first that I wished I could kick him in the shins more than once. Oh, but when the story (and the danger) heats up, it’s their true characters that shine through once again.
What I loved about this story:
- Elizabeth is kind, patient with her sisters, generous, humble and romantic.
- Darcy is suspicious, cautious, snide, sarcastic, but when he begins to understand the danger Elizabeth is in, it is totally sigh-worthy. “Darcy lowered his pistol slowly, his hand remarkably steady considering the turmoil still crawling in his chest. He should be thinking strategically, but his mind circled one inescapable fact: he had been willing to die for her.” Yes, Mr. Darcy is back and better than ever!
- Elizabeth’s royal cousin, Adrian, is warm, laughing, and had the subtlety of fireworks.
- Oh, and there’s even a shout out to Princess Bride!
So curl up with a glass of wine and enjoy a sweet, grown-up take on the classic fairytale, as only Melanie Rachel can tell it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Princess Problem by Melanie Rachel was an engrossing adventure featuring a strong Darcy and witty Elizabeth. Elizabeth Bennet is a princess that has been called back to her grandparents’ court in Thurnia from Longbourn where she has lived with her Bennet uncle, aunt and cousins. Darcy is on his way from Derbyshire to London to see his sister, Georgiana, when he is thrown into Elizabeth’s company. He doesn’t believe she is a princess, and she is just trying to get to Thurnia.
As usual with this author, the banter is amusing and filled with heartfelt moments. Once Darcy and Elizabeth met, I found the book difficult to put down. The original characters added nicely to the story, as very few other characters from canon appear in the book. I especially enjoyed meeting Elizabeth’s cousin, Adrian. I have a lot that I really enjoyed, but I don’t wish to spoil anything. There is a little swoony reminder of The Princess Bride that made me (almost) squeal.
I highly recommend this book to others that enjoy witty banter, a nicely growing attraction between the two main characters, and a little adventure to get us to the climax.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
As usual with this author, the banter is amusing and filled with heartfelt moments. Once Darcy and Elizabeth met, I found the book difficult to put down. The original characters added nicely to the story, as very few other characters from canon appear in the book. I especially enjoyed meeting Elizabeth’s cousin, Adrian. I have a lot that I really enjoyed, but I don’t wish to spoil anything. There is a little swoony reminder of The Princess Bride that made me (almost) squeal.
I highly recommend this book to others that enjoy witty banter, a nicely growing attraction between the two main characters, and a little adventure to get us to the climax.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
February 17, 2026
Elizabeth a princess?
This story takes place prior to canon when Elizabeth is 18 years old. Elizabeth is Mr. Bennet‘s niece, but has grown up in his loving home as he and Mrs. Bennet consider her another daughter. A journey north in winter is never easy but add a storm, carriage issues, shortage of supplies at the Inn, grumpy Mr Darcy, a nagging companion and highway men to add some adventure. In this fun story that blends Pride and Prejudice with a little bit of a fairytale, you will enjoy this story. Now to throw in Harry Frost narrating the audiobook absolutely brings this story to a five star.
This story takes place prior to canon when Elizabeth is 18 years old. Elizabeth is Mr. Bennet‘s niece, but has grown up in his loving home as he and Mrs. Bennet consider her another daughter. A journey north in winter is never easy but add a storm, carriage issues, shortage of supplies at the Inn, grumpy Mr Darcy, a nagging companion and highway men to add some adventure. In this fun story that blends Pride and Prejudice with a little bit of a fairytale, you will enjoy this story. Now to throw in Harry Frost narrating the audiobook absolutely brings this story to a five star.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Princess and the Peas
Melanie Rachel caught me straight away with this story’s blend of Regency intrigue and a gentle fairy-tale shimmer. Elizabeth has grown up at Longbourn with her aunt and uncle Bennet and her cousins. She has always known who she is—a princess. Then, on her eighteenth birthday, her grandfather, the King of Thurnia, summons her to court. So off she goes in the company of a companion and an envoy to the king—in the dead of winter.
Darcy enters the tale in a wonderfully prickly fashion. His first impression of Elizabeth is not a good one and sets the tone—her carriage races past him while he’s assisting at an accident. When they later find themselves stranded at the same inn during a snowstorm, he plainly does not believe a word about her supposed royal status. After all, he is friends with a prince of Thurnia and knows they have no princesses there. His scepticism and her frustration are great fun to watch collide as the romantic tension between them builds.
Much of the adventure unfolds as the weather keeps throwing obstacles in their path and forces them into one another’s company. Elizabeth’s chaperone is a particular trial—unyielding, demanding, and extremely tiresome.
The story has a lively mixture of romp, mystery, danger, and growing affection. The banter is wholly enjoyable, and once Darcy and Elizabeth finally begin to trust one another, their connection is very satisfying. You’ll love Elizabeth’s determination when events threaten her well being, and Darcy’s heroism as he outsmarts the villains.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 1, 2026 - Bonus Epilogue
I was just treated to the bonus epilogue for this book and it’s truly delightful. So different. I smiled through the whole thing.
Melanie Rachel caught me straight away with this story’s blend of Regency intrigue and a gentle fairy-tale shimmer. Elizabeth has grown up at Longbourn with her aunt and uncle Bennet and her cousins. She has always known who she is—a princess. Then, on her eighteenth birthday, her grandfather, the King of Thurnia, summons her to court. So off she goes in the company of a companion and an envoy to the king—in the dead of winter.
Darcy enters the tale in a wonderfully prickly fashion. His first impression of Elizabeth is not a good one and sets the tone—her carriage races past him while he’s assisting at an accident. When they later find themselves stranded at the same inn during a snowstorm, he plainly does not believe a word about her supposed royal status. After all, he is friends with a prince of Thurnia and knows they have no princesses there. His scepticism and her frustration are great fun to watch collide as the romantic tension between them builds.
Much of the adventure unfolds as the weather keeps throwing obstacles in their path and forces them into one another’s company. Elizabeth’s chaperone is a particular trial—unyielding, demanding, and extremely tiresome.
The story has a lively mixture of romp, mystery, danger, and growing affection. The banter is wholly enjoyable, and once Darcy and Elizabeth finally begin to trust one another, their connection is very satisfying. You’ll love Elizabeth’s determination when events threaten her well being, and Darcy’s heroism as he outsmarts the villains.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 1, 2026 - Bonus Epilogue
I was just treated to the bonus epilogue for this book and it’s truly delightful. So different. I smiled through the whole thing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2026
Very entertaining read
This story has a particularly stubborn set in his ways Darcy..but he does have some charm. Elizabeth has been raised by the Bennets in Meryton, always knowing of her true parentage, a Princess of nearby kingdom. Kidnapping, untruths, blockheaded blindness ensue on her adventure. Wasn't sure how Darcy was going to get himself out of some of his idiocy, but he managed. Surprisingly I did not miss Bingley & co., very small bits of the Bennet family, and very little of the Fitzwilliam side as well. Thoroughly enjoyed all the new characters al9ng the way.
This story has a particularly stubborn set in his ways Darcy..but he does have some charm. Elizabeth has been raised by the Bennets in Meryton, always knowing of her true parentage, a Princess of nearby kingdom. Kidnapping, untruths, blockheaded blindness ensue on her adventure. Wasn't sure how Darcy was going to get himself out of some of his idiocy, but he managed. Surprisingly I did not miss Bingley & co., very small bits of the Bennet family, and very little of the Fitzwilliam side as well. Thoroughly enjoyed all the new characters al9ng the way.
February 13, 2026
always a pleasure
Melanie Rachel is one of my favorite authors. Her stories are always imaginative and interesting. The banter is romantic and funny. The secondary characters are deserving of books of their own (hint,hint). The only complaint I have it that the ending feels rushed. I wanted to know what happened next with all the characters. This story has great potential for an entire original series that I would happily buy! More please!
Melanie Rachel is one of my favorite authors. Her stories are always imaginative and interesting. The banter is romantic and funny. The secondary characters are deserving of books of their own (hint,hint). The only complaint I have it that the ending feels rushed. I wanted to know what happened next with all the characters. This story has great potential for an entire original series that I would happily buy! More please!
February 14, 2026
Lots of fun!
A joyful, witty, romantic adventure for Elizabeth and Darcy, as a very non-canon plot has Elizabeth an actual princess who has been raised by the Bennets. Darcy falls for her even though he doesn't believe she is royal and she falls for him as he saves her several times. Cute recognition of the Princess and the Pea story, as well as the Princess Bride.
A joyful, witty, romantic adventure for Elizabeth and Darcy, as a very non-canon plot has Elizabeth an actual princess who has been raised by the Bennets. Darcy falls for her even though he doesn't believe she is royal and she falls for him as he saves her several times. Cute recognition of the Princess and the Pea story, as well as the Princess Bride.
February 15, 2026
Once again
Once again Melanie Rachel has written another great book. The only drawback was having to download the epilogue. I always buy her books and like to reread them after a while. But saying that the story was interesting enough that I didn’t want to stop reading. Thank you for another book and please don’t stop writing.
Once again Melanie Rachel has written another great book. The only drawback was having to download the epilogue. I always buy her books and like to reread them after a while. But saying that the story was interesting enough that I didn’t want to stop reading. Thank you for another book and please don’t stop writing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An utterly entertaining story!
Darcy was lost before it all began.
There is kind of a slow build up till almost halfway through. We become acquainted with the principal players, mainly Darcy Elizabeth and Mrs Hobarth? while stuck in bad winter weather at an inn.
When they are comandeered to travel together the action picks up as does the direct interaction between ODC. It's difficult to remember at times that they are 2 years younger than Canon because the characters are so close to the original ones.
I did miss a softer side to their falling in love. It was nearly despite themselves, with many of the early scenes being combatant.
The writing was great, setting a fast pace. The ending picked up speed with the entrance of Elizabeth's male family members. Ms. Rachel is talented with her multiple character scenes. They always make me feel I am right there in the middle of the action!
I look forward to rereading this when the paperback or audio book are available.
I received an advanced review copy and voluntarily leave my review.
Darcy was lost before it all began.
There is kind of a slow build up till almost halfway through. We become acquainted with the principal players, mainly Darcy Elizabeth and Mrs Hobarth? while stuck in bad winter weather at an inn.
When they are comandeered to travel together the action picks up as does the direct interaction between ODC. It's difficult to remember at times that they are 2 years younger than Canon because the characters are so close to the original ones.
I did miss a softer side to their falling in love. It was nearly despite themselves, with many of the early scenes being combatant.
The writing was great, setting a fast pace. The ending picked up speed with the entrance of Elizabeth's male family members. Ms. Rachel is talented with her multiple character scenes. They always make me feel I am right there in the middle of the action!
I look forward to rereading this when the paperback or audio book are available.
I received an advanced review copy and voluntarily leave my review.
February 12, 2026
Another lovely story
I really enjoyed this story — the relationship developing between Elizabeth and Darcy was special and engaging. And the underlying story of the Princess was well done.
I really enjoyed this story — the relationship developing between Elizabeth and Darcy was special and engaging. And the underlying story of the Princess was well done.
February 15, 2026
3.5 Stars
- A charming story
- Darcy and Elizabeth are the main characters, with their traveling companions in supporting roles.
- Elizabeth's companion, Mrs. Hobart, was a mix between Mrs. Bennet and Lady Catherine.
- A charming story
- Darcy and Elizabeth are the main characters, with their traveling companions in supporting roles.
- Elizabeth's companion, Mrs. Hobart, was a mix between Mrs. Bennet and Lady Catherine.
February 14, 2026
Unputdownable.
February 14, 2026
At first I didn’t find it humorous. It was intense. Mrs Hobart drove me crazy. I didn’t feel the comedy came until Elizabeth was safe. But I did enjoy the story.
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