When Mr Darcy discovers Elizabeth Bennet's true feelings, he's grateful the ill-fated proposal he had planned to make in Kent was stopped. But as the London Season drags on, he realizes the he cannot be happy without her. Determined to become the man worthy of her regard, he returns to Hertfordshire with a singular purpose—to win her heart.
If only it were that simple. Darcy has indeed reformed himself, tempering his pride and learning humility, but Elizabeth's wounded feelings and lingering resentment cannot be overcome in a day. Just as she begins to see the changes in him and tentatively accept his friendship, a host of new obstacles emerge to test them both.
Meddling relations with their own agendas interfere at the worst possible moments. Well-meaning friends offer advice that only complicates matters further. Most troublesome of all is a rival suitor—charming, persistent, and determined to claim Elizabeth for himself—who seems to appear whenever Darcy and Elizabeth draw close.
Yet Darcy perseveres, and slowly, painfully, Elizabeth's heart begins to soften. Just when happiness seems within their grasp and all misunderstandings appear resolved, malicious gossip begins to circulate about Elizabeth's character and reputation. The whispers threaten not only her standing in society but Darcy's as well, forcing them both to confront an agonizing can their love survive such a scandal, or will propriety and duty destroy their chance at a future together forever?
Officious Interference is a low angst novel length Pride and Prejudice variation. Set in the regency era, this tale is an enemies to lovers second chance romance that includes a love triangle and a scandalous elopement. The content is closed-door.
Enemies to lovers romance - pining/unrequited love - interference of meddling friends and relatives- class differences - false accusations, gossip, scandal - ruined reputation - jealous friend/villain - love triangle
Of Rivals, Rumour, and Steadfast Devotion This variation takes a familiar moment in Pride and Prejudice and tilts it in a fresh direction: Darcy never makes the disastrous Hunsford proposal, yet he still cannot put Elizabeth out of his mind. A fruitless London Season only confirms what his heart has already decided, and he returns to Hertfordshire with Bingley determined to show her the better man he has become.
Add to this the appearance of a rival suitor—a particularly engaging smile, polished, and ultimately, far too pleased with himself. He is attentive, and always just where Darcy least wants him. For me any rival adds that mild twist of angst to the stomach—and this one certainly does. Still, Darcy is unwavering. He sets himself to wooing Elizabeth with an earnestness that is endearing and satisfying to watch. I know who I’m rooting for.
When malicious gossip threatens Elizabeth’s reputation and the fragile understanding they have just begun to form, Darcy’s steadiness truly shines. You have never seen stubborn devotion until you have seen our hero determined to defend and rescue the lady he loves. I loved it.
Appreciatively, Lord Saye isn’t left out of this story, and a fortuitously overheard conversation by him and Miss Goddard finally helps Darcy save the day.
A steadfast Darcy, a softening Elizabeth, and that characteristic Amy D’Orazio charm we all know and love make it a very enjoyable read.
Highly recommend.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Darcy and Elizabeth's meeting in Kent doesn't quite go according to canon. This shift alters the trajectory of Darcy and Bingley's second chances with their lady loves. Charlotte is also not quite according to canon. A hint of what's to come?
Eventually, they arrive back at Netherfield, with Caroline in tow. Lord Saye arrives at a later date when he accompanies Georgiana to meet Elizabeth and her sisters. The poor dear has no idea how to navigate the Bennet insanity.
All this build up takes about half the book. Only once the complication of the Goddard's party makes a mess of Darcy's hopes, do things really start to cook.
I enjoyed this Darcy. He learns fast and changes quickly. And as one has come to expect from this author, the camaraderie between Darcy and his cousins is a treat! Lord Saye is always the perfect foil to Darcy's straight man.
I was left scratching my head a bit over Mr. Bennet and his behavior. There didn't seem to be any emotional backlash for Elizabeth regarding how she was treated by her family and all her neighbors. This made me feel a lack of closure.
A half-angsty story, with unexpected curve balls. Entertaining and enjoyable to read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
To everyone’s relief, the disastrous proposal was prevented. Darcy got to know Elizabeth’s dislike from Colonel Fitzwilliam, and was, therefore, had more time to prepare himself and planned a better wooing. A flirty Darcy was quite beyond imagination.
However, much was in the way, more than enough suitors for one, more undesirable and unexpected marriage proposals for another, and even some scandals which made Elizabeth seemed more ridiculous than her youngest sisters; meanwhile, there was Saye who acted as the detective as well as the judge to our delight.
The most unexpected villains, yes, in my opinion not only one, were at the same time preposterous yet true to human nature.
What a great variation re-envisioning Darcy and Elizabeth’s realization of their feelings for each other. Familiar characters portrayed in new and different ways pushed the plot in unexpected directions. I think seeing more of Darcy and Elizabeth’s thoughts and shared feelings revealed in many different situations was the best part. Once acknowledging love, their commitment was steadfast and true. So swoonworthy! Of course the lighthearted banter of Lord Saye kept me smiling as he just HAD to assist his cousin Darcy.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.