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A Maid of No Consequence: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
After five years and a drastic change in circumstance, can love find its way back to mend broken hearts?Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy has loved Miss Elizabeth Bennet since he saw her arrive at Netherfield Park to care for her ailing sister Jane. Alas, his proposal in Hunsford parsonage leads to an acrimonious parting and he is left heartbroken and bereft, with no hope of ever seeing her again.
Elizabeth Bennet quickly leaves Kent after receiving devastating and life-altering news but not without leaving a letter replying to his. Alas her letter goes missing, leaving her to believe he could never forgive her for their bitter exchange.
Five long years later, a serendipitous meeting puts Elizabeth in Darcy’s path once again. Elizabeth’s situation has changed dramatically, and the divide between them has widened even more dramatically. Darcy’s love for her is unaltered, and he vows to never lose her again. But grief and reduced circumstances have changed Elizabeth. Can she trust him enough to allow him to help her? And can she trust her own heart enough to acknowledge that he loves her still?
A MAID OF NO CONSEQUENCE is a variation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. It is a low angst, high-romance journey where love rekindles with surprising fervor, proving that the heart’s desires can triumph over any obstacle.
Elizabeth Bennet quickly leaves Kent after receiving devastating and life-altering news but not without leaving a letter replying to his. Alas her letter goes missing, leaving her to believe he could never forgive her for their bitter exchange.
Five long years later, a serendipitous meeting puts Elizabeth in Darcy’s path once again. Elizabeth’s situation has changed dramatically, and the divide between them has widened even more dramatically. Darcy’s love for her is unaltered, and he vows to never lose her again. But grief and reduced circumstances have changed Elizabeth. Can she trust him enough to allow him to help her? And can she trust her own heart enough to acknowledge that he loves her still?
A MAID OF NO CONSEQUENCE is a variation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. It is a low angst, high-romance journey where love rekindles with surprising fervor, proving that the heart’s desires can triumph over any obstacle.
- GenresRomance
284 pages, Paperback
Published September 15, 2025
26 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 28, 2025
A Knight in Shining Armour
“Five years on, he still could not be free of Elizabeth Bennet.” (quote from the book)
Put on your rose-coloured glasses and sit back and enjoy this sweet ‘fairytale style’ rendering of our dear couple. One full of good overcoming tragedy and ill intentions.
“Elizabeth felt utterly alone.” (quote from the book)
Five years since Mr. Darcy’s debacle of a proposal. Five years since the tragic loss of her family and the scattering of her sisters across England, Elizabeth Bennet has been reduced to a mere maid by the machinations of a cruel woman. When Elizabeth is brought face-to-face again with Mr. Darcy in the aid of a child, her world spins on its axis. It will never be the same again.
“What he felt for her, when only the heart was involved, was not complicated in the least. His love for her was true, and it was something he felt so deep within him, there was no separating his feelings for her. Elizabeth Bennet was in every fibre of his being.”(quote from the book)
Prepare yourself for a very swoon worthy Mr. Darcy. He is Elizabeth’s ‘knight in shining armour’ slaying all ‘dragons’. It also helps that others are willing to assist him. Elizabeth’s mind just needs to catch up with her heart.
Overall, this is a delightful debut novel from Ms. Milton. Some suspension of belief is required but don’t all fairy tales require that? Brava!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
October 8, 2025
Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn is now a lowly maid??? Say it ain't so!!
But that's exactly her situation as this book starts. It's been five years since she has been able to call herself a gentlewoman. While visiting Charlotte Collins at Hunsford, she had received an express notifying her that her father, mother, aunt and uncle Gardiner were all dead, having been killed together in a carriage accident. Mr. Darcy had proposed to her the evening before, and she had received and read his letter the next morning, but then the shocking news arrived and she hurriedly headed home. Although she had responded to Mr. Darcy's letter with one of her own and hoped he might follow her to Hertfordshire, he never came. Mr. Collins ejected the Bennet sisters from Longbourn almost immediately. The girls have managed to survive but are now scattered throughout England.
Elizabeth had found work as a governess and did well in that position for four years until the children she was teaching grew up. Then she was employed by Lord Pollard, a widower with two children. He remarried and, unluckily, his second wife happens to be the former Caroline Bingley. Out of spite, the new Lady Pollard has demoted her former rival from governess to maid of all work and takes great pleasure in berating and abusing her.
Meanwhile, Mr. Darcy is still unable to get over Elizabeth's refusal of his marriage proposal five years ago. Considering her obvious disgust for him at the time, he never attempted to contact her after she left Kent so suddenly. He assumes she's probably married by now. He himself is at an age where it's becoming more urgent that he marry to produce an heir, and Lady Catherine continues to press her daughter on him. Reluctantly, he offers the compromise that he will "woo" Anne to see if there's any hope of a future with her, but he's not optimistic.
It's at this point in their respective lives that Darcy, walking along Grosvenor Street, encounters a maid who looks remarkably like the woman he can't forget. When Elizabeth realizes who it is, she tries to scamper away but trips on the water bucket she'd been using to clean boots and falls down the town home's steps.
The rest of the book describes the lengths to which Darcy goes to help Elizabeth. He desperately wants to marry her despite her lowly position, which makes her truly unsuitable for the nephew of an earl.
It's certainly a different premise. Elizabeth and Darcy do get lots of page time together, which is sure to please most readers. I admit that I found the summary of Elizabeth's previous five years more interesting than the low-angst plot that follows. All obstacles are overcome more easily than you would expect thanks to remarkably serendipitous circumstances. It's almost a book-long Happily Ever After with brief periods of difficulty once Elizabeth leaves the Pollard household and Darcy finds her again.
This is a debut novel for the author, whose writing is already good and, I'm sure, will only get better. There are no glaring grammar or punctuation errors. It does get repetitive in some respects. For example, I couldn't help noticing that the words "kind" and "kindness" are overused. And the underlying problem-- the difference in ODC's social spheres-- is thought about and talked about repeatedly. Some dialogue is too melodramatic and some is too modern.
However, it's an enjoyable read if you're in the mood for a light, fairy tale-like Darcy and Elizabeth story.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review
But that's exactly her situation as this book starts. It's been five years since she has been able to call herself a gentlewoman. While visiting Charlotte Collins at Hunsford, she had received an express notifying her that her father, mother, aunt and uncle Gardiner were all dead, having been killed together in a carriage accident. Mr. Darcy had proposed to her the evening before, and she had received and read his letter the next morning, but then the shocking news arrived and she hurriedly headed home. Although she had responded to Mr. Darcy's letter with one of her own and hoped he might follow her to Hertfordshire, he never came. Mr. Collins ejected the Bennet sisters from Longbourn almost immediately. The girls have managed to survive but are now scattered throughout England.
Elizabeth had found work as a governess and did well in that position for four years until the children she was teaching grew up. Then she was employed by Lord Pollard, a widower with two children. He remarried and, unluckily, his second wife happens to be the former Caroline Bingley. Out of spite, the new Lady Pollard has demoted her former rival from governess to maid of all work and takes great pleasure in berating and abusing her.
Meanwhile, Mr. Darcy is still unable to get over Elizabeth's refusal of his marriage proposal five years ago. Considering her obvious disgust for him at the time, he never attempted to contact her after she left Kent so suddenly. He assumes she's probably married by now. He himself is at an age where it's becoming more urgent that he marry to produce an heir, and Lady Catherine continues to press her daughter on him. Reluctantly, he offers the compromise that he will "woo" Anne to see if there's any hope of a future with her, but he's not optimistic.
It's at this point in their respective lives that Darcy, walking along Grosvenor Street, encounters a maid who looks remarkably like the woman he can't forget. When Elizabeth realizes who it is, she tries to scamper away but trips on the water bucket she'd been using to clean boots and falls down the town home's steps.
The rest of the book describes the lengths to which Darcy goes to help Elizabeth. He desperately wants to marry her despite her lowly position, which makes her truly unsuitable for the nephew of an earl.
It's certainly a different premise. Elizabeth and Darcy do get lots of page time together, which is sure to please most readers. I admit that I found the summary of Elizabeth's previous five years more interesting than the low-angst plot that follows. All obstacles are overcome more easily than you would expect thanks to remarkably serendipitous circumstances. It's almost a book-long Happily Ever After with brief periods of difficulty once Elizabeth leaves the Pollard household and Darcy finds her again.
This is a debut novel for the author, whose writing is already good and, I'm sure, will only get better. There are no glaring grammar or punctuation errors. It does get repetitive in some respects. For example, I couldn't help noticing that the words "kind" and "kindness" are overused. And the underlying problem-- the difference in ODC's social spheres-- is thought about and talked about repeatedly. Some dialogue is too melodramatic and some is too modern.
However, it's an enjoyable read if you're in the mood for a light, fairy tale-like Darcy and Elizabeth story.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review
September 27, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars.
This reads almost like a "Cinderella" fairy tale. The Hunsford proposal has occurred with Darcy giving Elizabeth his letter and her responding in a letter, which never reaches his hands. Elizabeth leaves Hunsford immediately due to learning her parents and the Gardiners have died in a carriage accident. (Darcy does not know this.) Collins throws the Bennet sisters out and they are scattered. Jane does marry but it is not Bingley.
Elizabeth finds work as a governess and as those children grow-up, finds another position with a Lord Pollard's family. HOWEVER, the step-mother to his children turns out to be Caroline nee: Bingley, who verbally and physically abuses the servants. Elizabeth meets Darcy again when they both step in to aid a child outside the house and she trips over a water bucket.
We soon have Darcy taking Elizabeth and a fellow servant, Sarah, to Pemberley, where he sets them up in a cottage. Plans develop that Elizabeth will open a school for tenant children.
Darcy has never lost his love for Elizabeth and so as the story goes, he wants more and with the help of one of Darcy's relations, Elizabeth finds herself in closer company but never thinking he will stoop to "woo" a servant of all work!
The Colonel plays a different part in this.
Of course, there is a happy ending and the Bennet sisters reunite for the wedding.
This was a sweet story although painful at first it does move along to reunite ODC quickly. There are many moments when they tease and share feelings.
This reads almost like a "Cinderella" fairy tale. The Hunsford proposal has occurred with Darcy giving Elizabeth his letter and her responding in a letter, which never reaches his hands. Elizabeth leaves Hunsford immediately due to learning her parents and the Gardiners have died in a carriage accident. (Darcy does not know this.) Collins throws the Bennet sisters out and they are scattered. Jane does marry but it is not Bingley.
Elizabeth finds work as a governess and as those children grow-up, finds another position with a Lord Pollard's family. HOWEVER, the step-mother to his children turns out to be Caroline nee: Bingley, who verbally and physically abuses the servants. Elizabeth meets Darcy again when they both step in to aid a child outside the house and she trips over a water bucket.
We soon have Darcy taking Elizabeth and a fellow servant, Sarah, to Pemberley, where he sets them up in a cottage. Plans develop that Elizabeth will open a school for tenant children.
Darcy has never lost his love for Elizabeth and so as the story goes, he wants more and with the help of one of Darcy's relations, Elizabeth finds herself in closer company but never thinking he will stoop to "woo" a servant of all work!
The Colonel plays a different part in this.
Of course, there is a happy ending and the Bennet sisters reunite for the wedding.
This was a sweet story although painful at first it does move along to reunite ODC quickly. There are many moments when they tease and share feelings.
September 26, 2025
A Sweet Second Chance
A Maid of No Consequence is a strong debut with an unusual premise: Elizabeth Bennet, reduced to working as a maid, meets Mr. Darcy again five years after their disastrous encounter at Hunsford. Their “accidental” reunion (a hidden pun there), is one of those moments that makes you stop and ache for her situation while also feeling Darcy’s shock and enduring affection. It immediately draws sympathy for Elizabeth, but the story soon shifts as Darcy re-enters her life with a sure determination to set things right.
The writing is good and the chapters move quickly, making this a light read. At times I noticed some repeated phrasing, but overall the prose and dialogue flow well and serve the story. Darcy’s steady intervention making her new circumstances acceptable to his family gradually changes Elizabeth’s circumstances and restores her hope. Their time together feels tender and romantic.
Not a high-angst tale, the focus stays mostly on ODC, which will satisfy readers looking for a story centred on the couple with minimal distractions.
All told, Lucy C. Milton has presented a solid debut novel and is a welcome new author to the genre. Her story delivers an engaging “what if” scenario with heartfelt emotion, and I look forward to seeing more from her.
Recommend.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
A Maid of No Consequence is a strong debut with an unusual premise: Elizabeth Bennet, reduced to working as a maid, meets Mr. Darcy again five years after their disastrous encounter at Hunsford. Their “accidental” reunion (a hidden pun there), is one of those moments that makes you stop and ache for her situation while also feeling Darcy’s shock and enduring affection. It immediately draws sympathy for Elizabeth, but the story soon shifts as Darcy re-enters her life with a sure determination to set things right.
The writing is good and the chapters move quickly, making this a light read. At times I noticed some repeated phrasing, but overall the prose and dialogue flow well and serve the story. Darcy’s steady intervention making her new circumstances acceptable to his family gradually changes Elizabeth’s circumstances and restores her hope. Their time together feels tender and romantic.
Not a high-angst tale, the focus stays mostly on ODC, which will satisfy readers looking for a story centred on the couple with minimal distractions.
All told, Lucy C. Milton has presented a solid debut novel and is a welcome new author to the genre. Her story delivers an engaging “what if” scenario with heartfelt emotion, and I look forward to seeing more from her.
Recommend.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
September 22, 2025
very special
A great first P&P variation. Very interesting twists and turns. And some of the individual scenes were special - the sisters together, Carline getting her comeuppance. My only difficulty was I couldn’t forgive Bingley. But then it slows how well the book was written.
A great first P&P variation. Very interesting twists and turns. And some of the individual scenes were special - the sisters together, Carline getting her comeuppance. My only difficulty was I couldn’t forgive Bingley. But then it slows how well the book was written.
August 21, 2025
Following his disastrous proposal to Elizabeth Bennet, Fitzwilliam Darcy bends the rules of propriety by writing a letter to defend himself from her accusations.
Elizabeth finds her opinion of him much improved. She replies to his letter, encouraging him to seek her out in Hertfordshire.
The letter never reaches him.
News of a family tragedy forces her immediate return home. The Bennet sisters find themselves cast to the four winds, with no support or resources.
Five years later, Elizabeth is working in service to the aristocratic Pollard family. Sadly, their treatment of their staff is distinctly less noble.
Elizabeth is already exhibiting a bruise on her face, when she ventures onto the street to assist a child.
She comes face to face with a wealthy gentleman who also seeks to aid the child.
It is none other than Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Embarrassed at her lowly status, she retreats down the steps, only to trip on a bucket of muddy water and land on her face.
Darcy has never forgotten Elizabeth and loves her still. He is shocked to see Elizabeth in her changed status and wants to understand what happened.
In this variation Darcy is totally swoon worthy.
He offers help but doesn't try to take over.
When Elizabeth's situation becomes desperate he comes to the rescue. Elizabeth's pride soon gives way to relief at having someone look after her, for the first time in years.
A pleasing debut from the author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elizabeth finds her opinion of him much improved. She replies to his letter, encouraging him to seek her out in Hertfordshire.
The letter never reaches him.
News of a family tragedy forces her immediate return home. The Bennet sisters find themselves cast to the four winds, with no support or resources.
Five years later, Elizabeth is working in service to the aristocratic Pollard family. Sadly, their treatment of their staff is distinctly less noble.
Elizabeth is already exhibiting a bruise on her face, when she ventures onto the street to assist a child.
She comes face to face with a wealthy gentleman who also seeks to aid the child.
It is none other than Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Embarrassed at her lowly status, she retreats down the steps, only to trip on a bucket of muddy water and land on her face.
Darcy has never forgotten Elizabeth and loves her still. He is shocked to see Elizabeth in her changed status and wants to understand what happened.
In this variation Darcy is totally swoon worthy.
He offers help but doesn't try to take over.
When Elizabeth's situation becomes desperate he comes to the rescue. Elizabeth's pride soon gives way to relief at having someone look after her, for the first time in years.
A pleasing debut from the author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 15, 2025
Five years after she refused Darcy’s proposal, Elizabeth finds herself in vastly changed circumstances. Her life has altered a great deal, she must now fend for herself as a maid. But she never once forgot Mr Darcy. Immediately after her refusal she began to regret her hasty judgment and even replied to Darcy's letter with the wish to become better acquainted should he return to Hertfordshire - but he never came.
These five years Darcy was never able to forget Elizabeth and is as violently in love as ever despite the hopelessness of his situation after her refusal. Then fate throws her in his path again and Darcy is determined to grasp this second chance and never let her go, even if she, as a maid, is now more unsuitable as his wife than ever.
Will Darcy be able to convince Elizabeth of his unwavering love for her, despite their differences in circumstances? Will they be able to overcome his family’s and society’s expectations? Or will the social gap between them be too wide?
The story was very well written by the author Lucy C. Milton. It is her first Pride and prejudice variation but I hope not the last because I liked this book very much.
Darcy is very determined to not let Elizabeth go after he found her again. I like his determination and that he is willing to do everything in his power to let her forget her experiences, restore her respectability, convince her of his unwavering love and prove to her that she can trust in him. He is really sweet, especially when he is secure in her love. He speaks and expresses it rather openly then. I like this more open and expressive Darcy very much.
Elizabeth is her usual self, fortunately she does not let herself be defeated by her reduced circumstances. It takes her some time to trust again and remember that she does not need to do everything on her own, but eventually she even begins teasing Darcy again. I like that she can acknowledge very early that she likes/loves Darcy, it takes her longer to recognize that his feelings never changed and there is still hope for a union between them.
I really loved Darcy's family in this variation (besides Lady Catherine, but she is seldom really likeable). At the beginning they are a bit sceptical but after they are aware of what Elizabeth means for Darcy they are very supportive and rather sweet. My favourite moment was when the Earl asks Elizabeth if he may escort her down the aisle. So sweet.
There is much page time for Darcy and Elizabeth in this variation because the story starts shortly before they encounter each other in London again. After that Darcy is not inclined to let her go once again and later takes her to Pemberley so that she can start anew. Therefore they are not much separated from each other.
There is one big villain in the book who rejoices in Elizabeth's reduced circumstances and tries to do everything to intervene in Darcy's plans of pursuing her, but fortunately they are not successful. And in the end they get what they deserve because they are then in circumstances more reduced than before and a lot of gossip is spread about them.
If you like to know if there is a happily ever after for Darcy and Elizabeth when he encounters her in London as a maid, you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
These five years Darcy was never able to forget Elizabeth and is as violently in love as ever despite the hopelessness of his situation after her refusal. Then fate throws her in his path again and Darcy is determined to grasp this second chance and never let her go, even if she, as a maid, is now more unsuitable as his wife than ever.
Will Darcy be able to convince Elizabeth of his unwavering love for her, despite their differences in circumstances? Will they be able to overcome his family’s and society’s expectations? Or will the social gap between them be too wide?
The story was very well written by the author Lucy C. Milton. It is her first Pride and prejudice variation but I hope not the last because I liked this book very much.
Darcy is very determined to not let Elizabeth go after he found her again. I like his determination and that he is willing to do everything in his power to let her forget her experiences, restore her respectability, convince her of his unwavering love and prove to her that she can trust in him. He is really sweet, especially when he is secure in her love. He speaks and expresses it rather openly then. I like this more open and expressive Darcy very much.
Elizabeth is her usual self, fortunately she does not let herself be defeated by her reduced circumstances. It takes her some time to trust again and remember that she does not need to do everything on her own, but eventually she even begins teasing Darcy again. I like that she can acknowledge very early that she likes/loves Darcy, it takes her longer to recognize that his feelings never changed and there is still hope for a union between them.
I really loved Darcy's family in this variation (besides Lady Catherine, but she is seldom really likeable). At the beginning they are a bit sceptical but after they are aware of what Elizabeth means for Darcy they are very supportive and rather sweet. My favourite moment was when the Earl asks Elizabeth if he may escort her down the aisle. So sweet.
There is much page time for Darcy and Elizabeth in this variation because the story starts shortly before they encounter each other in London again. After that Darcy is not inclined to let her go once again and later takes her to Pemberley so that she can start anew. Therefore they are not much separated from each other.
There is one big villain in the book who rejoices in Elizabeth's reduced circumstances and tries to do everything to intervene in Darcy's plans of pursuing her, but fortunately they are not successful. And in the end they get what they deserve because they are then in circumstances more reduced than before and a lot of gossip is spread about them.
If you like to know if there is a happily ever after for Darcy and Elizabeth when he encounters her in London as a maid, you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 6, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up. While this held my interest, is well written, and romantic, there was kind of an unrealistic feeling while I read it that nagged me a bit. I mean, what are the odds that Elizabeth Bennet, forced into service as a governess, would wind up working for Caroline Bingley, now Lady Pollard? But I was able to ignore that and enjoy the later parts of the story, in spite of yet another unlikely outcome for Jane and her cobbler husband. I just can't say this is a favorite of mine. You may find you like it better.
September 26, 2025
What a glorious debut for Lucy C Milton! This is a very special story and it is beautifully written. You will have so many emotions crashing into each other from the beginning all the way to the end.
I don’t do spoilers but this is a tale of loyalty, honour, trust and the enduring love of Darcy and Elizabeth that survives great hardship and greater disappointments.
I cannot wait for Lucy C Milton’s next book.
I don’t do spoilers but this is a tale of loyalty, honour, trust and the enduring love of Darcy and Elizabeth that survives great hardship and greater disappointments.
I cannot wait for Lucy C Milton’s next book.
September 23, 2025
A hard-earned HEA!
A letter gone astray after Darcy’s disastrous proposal and a tragedy at Longbourn keep ODC apart for five years. Five long and hard years for both, but especially brutal for Elizabeth Bennet. Reduced to working as a maid, her path again crosses his and the gentleman in Darcy shines as he makes every effort to restore her to the Elizabeth Bennet she once was. The author’s debut is a sweet, earnest story of missed chances and reborn sense of self and purpose, plus the happiness of regaining the great love you’d thought lost.
A letter gone astray after Darcy’s disastrous proposal and a tragedy at Longbourn keep ODC apart for five years. Five long and hard years for both, but especially brutal for Elizabeth Bennet. Reduced to working as a maid, her path again crosses his and the gentleman in Darcy shines as he makes every effort to restore her to the Elizabeth Bennet she once was. The author’s debut is a sweet, earnest story of missed chances and reborn sense of self and purpose, plus the happiness of regaining the great love you’d thought lost.
September 28, 2025
Lizzy is a maid
Years have passed and Lizzy values her independence and pride earning her keep. The story opens up with how this happened pretty quickly. When we have learned her past years events the rest of story starts to play out.
Given her being a maid almost anything could happen now. Fun to not know what’s going to happen. 5 stars for a newish plot.
Years have passed and Lizzy values her independence and pride earning her keep. The story opens up with how this happened pretty quickly. When we have learned her past years events the rest of story starts to play out.
Given her being a maid almost anything could happen now. Fun to not know what’s going to happen. 5 stars for a newish plot.
September 27, 2025
Great new trope!
Congratulations to Ms Milton on her inaugural publication.
The story takes place 5 years after the Hunsford proposal. Circumstances have changed and Elizabeth finds herself in service. Mr Darcy finds her by happenstance and has always still had feelings for her.
A story of learning to trust again. Great read!
Congratulations to Ms Milton on her inaugural publication.
The story takes place 5 years after the Hunsford proposal. Circumstances have changed and Elizabeth finds herself in service. Mr Darcy finds her by happenstance and has always still had feelings for her.
A story of learning to trust again. Great read!
October 4, 2025
One of the best Pride and Prejudice Variations I have ever read...seriously well done!!!!
October 7, 2025
I loved it!
Warning: Meant for mature audiences. Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is a low angst, high-romance journey where love rekindles with surprising fervor, proving that the heart’s desires can triumph over any obstacle. After five years and a drastic change in circumstance, can love find its way back to mend broken hearts?
Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy has loved Miss Elizabeth Bennet since he saw her arrive at Netherfield Park to care for her ailing sister Jane. Alas, his proposal in Hunsford parsonage leads to an acrimonious parting and he is left heartbroken and bereft, with no hope of ever seeing her again. Elizabeth Bennet quickly leaves Kent after receiving devastating and life-altering news but not without leaving a letter replying to his. Alas her letter goes missing, leaving her to believe he could never forgive her for their bitter exchange.
Five long years later, a serendipitous meeting puts Elizabeth in Darcy’s path once again. Elizabeth’s situation has changed dramatically, and the divide between them has widened even more dramatically. Darcy’s love for her is unaltered, and he vows to never lose her again, but grief and reduced circumstances have changed Elizabeth. Can she trust him enough to allow him to help her and can she trust her own heart enough to acknowledge that he loves her still? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
Warning: Meant for mature audiences. Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. This is a low angst, high-romance journey where love rekindles with surprising fervor, proving that the heart’s desires can triumph over any obstacle. After five years and a drastic change in circumstance, can love find its way back to mend broken hearts?
Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy has loved Miss Elizabeth Bennet since he saw her arrive at Netherfield Park to care for her ailing sister Jane. Alas, his proposal in Hunsford parsonage leads to an acrimonious parting and he is left heartbroken and bereft, with no hope of ever seeing her again. Elizabeth Bennet quickly leaves Kent after receiving devastating and life-altering news but not without leaving a letter replying to his. Alas her letter goes missing, leaving her to believe he could never forgive her for their bitter exchange.
Five long years later, a serendipitous meeting puts Elizabeth in Darcy’s path once again. Elizabeth’s situation has changed dramatically, and the divide between them has widened even more dramatically. Darcy’s love for her is unaltered, and he vows to never lose her again, but grief and reduced circumstances have changed Elizabeth. Can she trust him enough to allow him to help her and can she trust her own heart enough to acknowledge that he loves her still? 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 23, 2025
A Maid of No Consequence is a charming P&P variation taking place five years after the Hunsford proposal. After reading Darcy's letter, Elizabeth received devestating news from home which require her to leave Kent in a hurry, but not without explaining herself to Mr Darcy in a letter. But the letter has never reached Darcy and so both of them feel disappointment, pain and anger. An unexpected meeting in London five years later leads to a happy ending for Darcy and Elizabeth, but there are some drastic and tragic events that the couple will have to overcome to be together.
I enjoyed this variation very much, even though at first I thought Elizabeth's fall in status and becoming a maid of all works was implausible. But after learning who was behind this, I was not surprised at all. Darcy in this variation is wonderful. He is determined to show Elizabeth that he has changed and he is no longer the proud and disagreeable man she met five years ago in Meryton. He wants to show her that his love for her had deepened but he is also afraid to lose her again. Elizabeth is no longer the girl she used to be. Tragedy and hardship have shown her that life can be cruel to defenceless young women. But she is the same courageous and kind woman, who still tries to defend others, who are less fortunate than her.
After reading the blurb, I believed this would be a high-angst story with their enemies trying to put obstacles in Darcy and Elizabeth's road to happiness, but I was wrong. Some things were resolved rather quickly, clearing the way for ODC. I enjoyed this variation very much. It is very romantic and captivating and one character in particular deserved their comeuppance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed this variation very much, even though at first I thought Elizabeth's fall in status and becoming a maid of all works was implausible. But after learning who was behind this, I was not surprised at all. Darcy in this variation is wonderful. He is determined to show Elizabeth that he has changed and he is no longer the proud and disagreeable man she met five years ago in Meryton. He wants to show her that his love for her had deepened but he is also afraid to lose her again. Elizabeth is no longer the girl she used to be. Tragedy and hardship have shown her that life can be cruel to defenceless young women. But she is the same courageous and kind woman, who still tries to defend others, who are less fortunate than her.
After reading the blurb, I believed this would be a high-angst story with their enemies trying to put obstacles in Darcy and Elizabeth's road to happiness, but I was wrong. Some things were resolved rather quickly, clearing the way for ODC. I enjoyed this variation very much. It is very romantic and captivating and one character in particular deserved their comeuppance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2025
A well written and interesting premise
This debut novel is very well planned and written and I commend the author for coming up with such an unusual idea and then executing it very effectively. Well done indeed.
The characters which readers know so well have experienced significant knocks in the five years since they had last met at Hunsford. This has been most particularly the case for Elizabeth who has experienced a signifiant change in her lifestyle and prospects. As the characters meet again, it is Darcy who is more willing to move forward and Elizabeth who is cautious. The knocks of life have made her less willing to trust anyone. Darcy remains gently persistent and the trust is slowly rebuilt.
There are some occasions when the language is too modern and a couple of times when the geography and restrictions of travel in the Regency era seemed a little blurred but these were minor points.
I definitely recommend this book to fans of the genre who are looking for something with a different plot.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This debut novel is very well planned and written and I commend the author for coming up with such an unusual idea and then executing it very effectively. Well done indeed.
The characters which readers know so well have experienced significant knocks in the five years since they had last met at Hunsford. This has been most particularly the case for Elizabeth who has experienced a signifiant change in her lifestyle and prospects. As the characters meet again, it is Darcy who is more willing to move forward and Elizabeth who is cautious. The knocks of life have made her less willing to trust anyone. Darcy remains gently persistent and the trust is slowly rebuilt.
There are some occasions when the language is too modern and a couple of times when the geography and restrictions of travel in the Regency era seemed a little blurred but these were minor points.
I definitely recommend this book to fans of the genre who are looking for something with a different plot.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 29, 2025
5 years has passed since the Hunsford proposal. Right after reading Darcy's letter, she thinks better of him and writes him a letter. Though Darcy never receives the letter.
Then by chance he meet Elizabeth in the street and they begin to meet on her half day off.
Both Mr and Mrs Bennet and Mr And Mrs Gardiner died in a carriage accident.
Elizabeth is working in London as a maid. Originally she worked as a governess, but when she is hired by former Caroline Bingley she is forced to accept a position as a maid instead. Caroline threathens her to stay in her position. She has a bad temper, and is violent towards her staff and her husband tries to take advantage of his female staff.
Jane is happily married though to a cobler in Derbyshire, Lydia is married to Mr Denny, Kitty is taken care of aunt Philips, who is very sick and Mary is working in an orphanage.
Darcy decides to help Elizabeth though of course the road to happiness isn't simple. So join our dear couple on their journey.
I received a free copy through booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
Then by chance he meet Elizabeth in the street and they begin to meet on her half day off.
Both Mr and Mrs Bennet and Mr And Mrs Gardiner died in a carriage accident.
Elizabeth is working in London as a maid. Originally she worked as a governess, but when she is hired by former Caroline Bingley she is forced to accept a position as a maid instead. Caroline threathens her to stay in her position. She has a bad temper, and is violent towards her staff and her husband tries to take advantage of his female staff.
Jane is happily married though to a cobler in Derbyshire, Lydia is married to Mr Denny, Kitty is taken care of aunt Philips, who is very sick and Mary is working in an orphanage.
Darcy decides to help Elizabeth though of course the road to happiness isn't simple. So join our dear couple on their journey.
I received a free copy through booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
September 30, 2025
5 stars
Love never fails, though it sometimes takes time.
It’s hard to believe that this is Ms. Milton’s first book. I enjoyed her writing style, which moved the story along at a good pace. Extensive descriptions of rooms or dresses didn’t bog down the story. Her depictions of the characters felt real, and the reader didn’t have to suspend reality to enjoy the romance.
This is one of my favorite Darcys. His enduring love shines through in his thoughts, words, and actions. The conflict over social ranks still challenges Darcy, but instead of suppressing his love for Elizabeth, he fights to overcome greater obstacles to their happiness. She is his future, and he will not give her up.
I’m not going to write more about the story other than it is:
* Well written
* Noticed no grammar speed bumps or continuity roundabouts
* Clean and sweet
* A story I will read again
* Angst level = low to mid
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’m looking forward to reading her next book.
Love never fails, though it sometimes takes time.
It’s hard to believe that this is Ms. Milton’s first book. I enjoyed her writing style, which moved the story along at a good pace. Extensive descriptions of rooms or dresses didn’t bog down the story. Her depictions of the characters felt real, and the reader didn’t have to suspend reality to enjoy the romance.
This is one of my favorite Darcys. His enduring love shines through in his thoughts, words, and actions. The conflict over social ranks still challenges Darcy, but instead of suppressing his love for Elizabeth, he fights to overcome greater obstacles to their happiness. She is his future, and he will not give her up.
I’m not going to write more about the story other than it is:
* Well written
* Noticed no grammar speed bumps or continuity roundabouts
* Clean and sweet
* A story I will read again
* Angst level = low to mid
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’m looking forward to reading her next book.
September 3, 2025
A happy story.
The story begins five years after the proposal in Hunsford. Elizabeth was now reduced to a maid of all work and was literally fighting and striving for life. However, the plot did not dwell on long in this, and had Darcy quickly remove Elizabeth from the unpleasant circumstances to the magnificent Pemberley.
The chapters are short and the book is easy to read. For readers looking for a light and pleasant story, this is recommended. Most of the families and friends, good or bad, were deleted to simplify the plot which provided us the required focus on Darcy and Elizabeth. Although, IMHO, some of the plots may not be very convincing to readers who are more particular over the details of the reality in Regency era. The tone of some conversations could be considered as modern and too direct even for people as outspoken as LCdB.
The story begins five years after the proposal in Hunsford. Elizabeth was now reduced to a maid of all work and was literally fighting and striving for life. However, the plot did not dwell on long in this, and had Darcy quickly remove Elizabeth from the unpleasant circumstances to the magnificent Pemberley.
The chapters are short and the book is easy to read. For readers looking for a light and pleasant story, this is recommended. Most of the families and friends, good or bad, were deleted to simplify the plot which provided us the required focus on Darcy and Elizabeth. Although, IMHO, some of the plots may not be very convincing to readers who are more particular over the details of the reality in Regency era. The tone of some conversations could be considered as modern and too direct even for people as outspoken as LCdB.
October 21, 2025
Five years after the Hunsford proposal, unfortunate circumstances have led to Elizabeth's employment in the former Caroline Bingley's home as a maid-of-all-work. While this initially sounds implausible, there is a reasonable explanation for it. Elizabeth resists Darcy's initial efforts to rescue her, but his reasoning overcomes her pride. He patiently chips away at her reservations.
This was a well-written first novel with an unusual plot. It flowed nicely until it fizzled out a little at the end, with the loooong engagement and mushy conversations and thoughts. I would definitely read another book by this author.
This was a well-written first novel with an unusual plot. It flowed nicely until it fizzled out a little at the end, with the loooong engagement and mushy conversations and thoughts. I would definitely read another book by this author.
October 6, 2025
Not my favorite
It was ok. I had several.problems with how easily past hurts were surpassed, social circles and families were overcome, villains were dispatched too easily. SPOILER I can accept when Jane and Bingley don't end up together but support it in a way I can believe and accept. Jane was lowered and struggled for years and only later did it grow to be love and I cannot believe that Bingley would be so easily accepted by his wife's family and that they are a love match. Nothing there supports this. The overall plot was just not believable.
It was ok. I had several.problems with how easily past hurts were surpassed, social circles and families were overcome, villains were dispatched too easily. SPOILER I can accept when Jane and Bingley don't end up together but support it in a way I can believe and accept. Jane was lowered and struggled for years and only later did it grow to be love and I cannot believe that Bingley would be so easily accepted by his wife's family and that they are a love match. Nothing there supports this. The overall plot was just not believable.
September 24, 2025
what a debut!!!!
Lucy Milton will be one to watch, you heard it here first 😂 devoured this in a matter of hours
character development was A+, as was the chemistry. I loved the moments with Darcy and lizzy in the kitchen
actually a refreshing change having Jane and Bingley not end up together, he and Georgiana actually make a lot of sense to me!
would recommend
PG
Lucy Milton will be one to watch, you heard it here first 😂 devoured this in a matter of hours
character development was A+, as was the chemistry. I loved the moments with Darcy and lizzy in the kitchen
actually a refreshing change having Jane and Bingley not end up together, he and Georgiana actually make a lot of sense to me!
would recommend
PG
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2025
A promising debut!
A well written story with an original twist Darcy and Elizabeth have changed over time. Darcy is mellower, but Lizzy has lost her sense of self. It is a low angst story based on the Cinderella trope, but there is a great deal of tenderness in the love story.
A well written story with an original twist Darcy and Elizabeth have changed over time. Darcy is mellower, but Lizzy has lost her sense of self. It is a low angst story based on the Cinderella trope, but there is a great deal of tenderness in the love story.
October 11, 2025
A Sweet and Readable Story
The only reason I gave this story 4 instead of 5 stars is that the story was a little too easily resolved. But I think the writing is quite good and I would read this new author’s next book.
The only reason I gave this story 4 instead of 5 stars is that the story was a little too easily resolved. But I think the writing is quite good and I would read this new author’s next book.
November 12, 2025
Entertaining read. An interesting take on this variation, it starts out with Elizabeth in an unfamiliar situation, but moves fairly quickly on to more recognizable variation setting in this lower angst storyline. Enjoy.
September 23, 2025
Great story if you love Jane Austen and Pride and Prejudice. A variation on the love story of the ages of Darcy and Elizabeth. Reintroduction of her sisters and what has happened to them as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2025
Unfortunately an all too predictable rags to riches retelling.
November 6, 2025
Very different plot. Much yearning and good characterization. Great story
September 25, 2025
Very good look forward to more from this author.
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