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Mr Darcy's Quizzing Glass: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Its gaze may pierce the veils of men, yet use it sparingly…
After the sudden death of his father, twenty-three-year-old Fitzwilliam Darcy inherits more than Pemberley and a vast fortune—he discovers a mysterious quizzing glass hidden in his father's locked drawer. What begins as a tool to decipher illegible ledgers soon reveals an extraordinary the ability to see the true character of those around him.. Darkness surrounds the deceitful. A warm glow emanates from the good. Yet Elizabeth Bennet radiates unlike anyone he's ever encountered, a luminous presence that haunts his every thought. For the first time, the glass that has protected him from fortune hunters and rogues has become a burden, for how can he trust his heart when his feelings may be influenced by inexplicable enchantment?
Elizabeth Bennet expects nothing from the aloof Mr Darcy beyond his disdain for country society. After all, he deemed her merely "tolerable" at their first meeting—a slight she's determined never to forgive. But Elizabeth finds herself increasingly drawn to the enigmatic gentleman, even as she questions his constant, unsettling stares. As their acquaintance deepens, Elizabeth glimpses the truth about Darcy's quizzing glass and challenges his reliance on it. Can a man who has spent years judging others through enchanted glass learn to trust his own heart? And what does it mean when the woman he loves shines brighter than anyone he's ever seen?
Mr Darcy's Quizzing Glass is a novel length Pride and Prejudice Variation that contains a touch of magic and an enemies to lovers romance. Content is closed door and the angst level is low.
Elizabeth Bennet expects nothing from the aloof Mr Darcy beyond his disdain for country society. After all, he deemed her merely "tolerable" at their first meeting—a slight she's determined never to forgive. But Elizabeth finds herself increasingly drawn to the enigmatic gentleman, even as she questions his constant, unsettling stares. As their acquaintance deepens, Elizabeth glimpses the truth about Darcy's quizzing glass and challenges his reliance on it. Can a man who has spent years judging others through enchanted glass learn to trust his own heart? And what does it mean when the woman he loves shines brighter than anyone he's ever seen?
Mr Darcy's Quizzing Glass is a novel length Pride and Prejudice Variation that contains a touch of magic and an enemies to lovers romance. Content is closed door and the angst level is low.
187 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 23, 2026
17 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Jan Ashton
25 books108 followersAuthor and editor of Austenesque novels, lover of history and romance, co-founder of Quills & Quartos Publishing.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
Review of advance copy
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
This story provides an intriguing reason why Fitzwilliam Darcy is so awkward at the Meryton Assembly, which is only obliquely explained in the Prologue long before he enters the book.
It's 1794, and the senior Mr. Darcy becomes annoyed when his wife and a male acquaintance seem much too friendly at a social gathering. He always carries with him a quizzing glass that has been in the Darcy family for generations. It is priceless--more due to what it reveals than the costly gems embedded in the glass's frame. He raises it to his eye to check the trustworthiness of the pair, not noticing there's a mirror behind them. To his horror, the reflected image reveals Mr. Darcy himself surrounded by a gray haze of pride and jealousy.
Chapter One picks up the story in 1806, twelve years later. His sudden death has left the younger Mr. Darcy struggling with all the decisions laid upon him as the new Master of Pemberley. When Darcy looks through his father's desk, he discovers the quizzing glass accompanied by a cryptic warning in his father's handwriting. Once he discovers its power, he cannot resist the temptation to use it regularly as an easy means of separating lies from truth.
Five years later, Darcy comes to Hertfordshire to help his friend Bingley. Similar to his father, Darcy has garnered a reputation for remarkable discernment. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst, who are in residence at Netherfield before Darcy, cannot stop singing his praises and describing his exquisite quizzing glass throughout the area. But then he leaves it in his London townhome, not anticipating a need for it.
It's a decision he regrets when he is pressed into going to the Meryton Assembly the very day he arrives in Hertfordshire. He experiences acute discomfort around so many strangers without the protection his glass usually affords him in such situations. Then Bingley presses him to dance with Elizabeth Bennet. He's so startled that he stumbles when his naked eye perceives a brilliant ethereal glow emanating from her.
The plot creates a different dynamic between Elizabeth and Darcy; at first, he struggles to figure out what to make of her unnatural radiance... or of her.
As always, Ms. Ashton writes beautifully. She presents the playful story with a nice light touch that avoids getting overly silly. The situation doesn't lend itself to much angst, however; Elizabeth's reaction when she learns Darcy's secret feels a bit overdone, but it provides the only real obstacle to the two ending up together.
At first I thought the senior Mr. Darcy's quizzing glass must have failed him in the case of George Wickham, since he still provided his godson with the usual inheritance in this imagining. Then I realized that he set aside the glass permanently after the incident related in the Prologue. Without it, George's charm would have convinced him of the young man's suitability for the church living he bequeathed.
At 187 pages, it's not a long read. It's a thoroughly entertaining one.
Content is clean.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story provides an intriguing reason why Fitzwilliam Darcy is so awkward at the Meryton Assembly, which is only obliquely explained in the Prologue long before he enters the book.
It's 1794, and the senior Mr. Darcy becomes annoyed when his wife and a male acquaintance seem much too friendly at a social gathering. He always carries with him a quizzing glass that has been in the Darcy family for generations. It is priceless--more due to what it reveals than the costly gems embedded in the glass's frame. He raises it to his eye to check the trustworthiness of the pair, not noticing there's a mirror behind them. To his horror, the reflected image reveals Mr. Darcy himself surrounded by a gray haze of pride and jealousy.
Chapter One picks up the story in 1806, twelve years later. His sudden death has left the younger Mr. Darcy struggling with all the decisions laid upon him as the new Master of Pemberley. When Darcy looks through his father's desk, he discovers the quizzing glass accompanied by a cryptic warning in his father's handwriting. Once he discovers its power, he cannot resist the temptation to use it regularly as an easy means of separating lies from truth.
Five years later, Darcy comes to Hertfordshire to help his friend Bingley. Similar to his father, Darcy has garnered a reputation for remarkable discernment. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst, who are in residence at Netherfield before Darcy, cannot stop singing his praises and describing his exquisite quizzing glass throughout the area. But then he leaves it in his London townhome, not anticipating a need for it.
It's a decision he regrets when he is pressed into going to the Meryton Assembly the very day he arrives in Hertfordshire. He experiences acute discomfort around so many strangers without the protection his glass usually affords him in such situations. Then Bingley presses him to dance with Elizabeth Bennet. He's so startled that he stumbles when his naked eye perceives a brilliant ethereal glow emanating from her.
The plot creates a different dynamic between Elizabeth and Darcy; at first, he struggles to figure out what to make of her unnatural radiance... or of her.
As always, Ms. Ashton writes beautifully. She presents the playful story with a nice light touch that avoids getting overly silly. The situation doesn't lend itself to much angst, however; Elizabeth's reaction when she learns Darcy's secret feels a bit overdone, but it provides the only real obstacle to the two ending up together.
At first I thought the senior Mr. Darcy's quizzing glass must have failed him in the case of George Wickham, since he still provided his godson with the usual inheritance in this imagining. Then I realized that he set aside the glass permanently after the incident related in the Prologue. Without it, George's charm would have convinced him of the young man's suitability for the church living he bequeathed.
At 187 pages, it's not a long read. It's a thoroughly entertaining one.
Content is clean.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 23, 2026
Is seeing believing?
4.5* rounded up
As the title suggests, the antagonist in this story is a quizzing glass, rather than a traditional character. Wickham is present, but only as a mischief-maker. Other than the mystical features of this eyepiece, this story does not fall under the magical/fantasy genre. Instead, it explores the accuracy of discernment and self-perception.
Elizabeth is less impulsive here, and both Darcy and Elizabeth are cerebral in their process of understanding others.
There's an echo of the Mr Bingley from The Most Interesting Man in the World here that elicited some smiles.
I really enjoy this author's writing style and stories, and her books are an automatic purchase for me. This one will be no different.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4.5* rounded up
As the title suggests, the antagonist in this story is a quizzing glass, rather than a traditional character. Wickham is present, but only as a mischief-maker. Other than the mystical features of this eyepiece, this story does not fall under the magical/fantasy genre. Instead, it explores the accuracy of discernment and self-perception.
Elizabeth is less impulsive here, and both Darcy and Elizabeth are cerebral in their process of understanding others.
There's an echo of the Mr Bingley from The Most Interesting Man in the World here that elicited some smiles.
I really enjoy this author's writing style and stories, and her books are an automatic purchase for me. This one will be no different.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 25, 2026
This book was a big disappointment. I expected a fun, quirky fantasy about a magical object that affected the framing and development of a unique P&P variation. What I found instead was a poorly structured retelling, and a bipolar use of a magical object that is constantly force-fed to us readers (mentioned by every chatacter), even as the quizzing glass doesn’t appear “in person” for a large chunk of the story.
The contextual story of how the famed quizzing glass gets to Darcy’s hands was sort of well planned (better than the rest of the story for sure!), and interesting. But soon enough Darcy’s own relationship with the object becomes problematic >> he starts to rely heavily on the magical aid, but at the same time dislikes his own dependency on it. So much so, that he leaves the magical monocle behind when he goes to Hertfordshire [WHY?].
The quizzing glass is supposed to reveal people’s true nature, by showing dark colours or shining light; what would have been a better use for Proud Darcy than to see people’s good nature in Meryton, affecting his interactions there from the Assembly onwards?? But no [ eye roll ], because this author decided to try to insert canon P&P features unchanged: Darcy’s insult, Jane’s illness, Collins arrival, Wickham’s friendship with the neighborbood… they all happen almost exactly as in canon, but the author is bored to actually write these, so they are mostly referenced and skipped (things happen as we all know, but scenes are not there to be found!).
There is zero real chemistry between Darcy and Elizabeth, all that happens at this stage is that the Bingleys are super crass in fawning over Darcy, praising him to high heaven as the most perfect being ever, which rightly puts Elizabeth off the guy. Meanwhile without the monocle, Darcy notices Elizabeth shines anyway, and he is smitten to the point of permanent silence and freezing up in her presence. So nothing really happens between them at that point.
Elizabeth and Darcy meet again in London (finally a new path for the retelling!), and the quizzing glass makes an appearance. Lizzy accidentally finds out about the real use of it, and this triggers a very fake, preachy conflict for her in which she hates that Darcy uses it (why is it supposed to be wrong again?), and also very offended that he didn’t take it to Meryton (hypocrite Lizzy…). Later they clear this conflict and kick up the flirting, but the main problem of the story is never properly addressed or resolved.
The story mixes up two main and very different issues >>
1) Darcy questions if the supernatural object is really “magical”, if it involces “Dark Arts”, and this question is never solved. We know Darcy’s father and grandfather used it all the time for years, yet “sparingly” (confusing), and that helped their fortunes & estate prosper. Why is this a problem again? There is no magical warning or dark danger to the device, so why extend this internal doubt so long through the story??
2) the moral question about relying on an external (magical?) object to judge people and “isolate” onself from the risks of real life interactions = Darcy has relied on the object to cut off people who pose some danger, and as an excuse to avoid social situations. Meanwhile Elizabeth judges Darcy very, very harshly on this, because she is very clear (insufferable!) about how using the quizzing glass is “wrong” somehow.
Abother problem to the story is that Darcy is interested in Elizabeth because she has a literal shine about her, and later focuses on her qualities because of it. So the entire love story is WEAKENED by the magical object instead of enhanced by it, in my opinion!
There was some crisis climax towards the end when there is a big party ahead of Jane’s wedding, where Lydia and Wickham put up a scene involving the quizzing glass, ending in a public Wickham - Darcy confrontation. All is solved with much ease and very little reader satisfaction, to my taste… there is a short cutesy Epilogue that did nothing for me, nor for offering closure in regard to the main topics around the magical device.
The contextual story of how the famed quizzing glass gets to Darcy’s hands was sort of well planned (better than the rest of the story for sure!), and interesting. But soon enough Darcy’s own relationship with the object becomes problematic >> he starts to rely heavily on the magical aid, but at the same time dislikes his own dependency on it. So much so, that he leaves the magical monocle behind when he goes to Hertfordshire [WHY?].
The quizzing glass is supposed to reveal people’s true nature, by showing dark colours or shining light; what would have been a better use for Proud Darcy than to see people’s good nature in Meryton, affecting his interactions there from the Assembly onwards?? But no [ eye roll ], because this author decided to try to insert canon P&P features unchanged: Darcy’s insult, Jane’s illness, Collins arrival, Wickham’s friendship with the neighborbood… they all happen almost exactly as in canon, but the author is bored to actually write these, so they are mostly referenced and skipped (things happen as we all know, but scenes are not there to be found!).
There is zero real chemistry between Darcy and Elizabeth, all that happens at this stage is that the Bingleys are super crass in fawning over Darcy, praising him to high heaven as the most perfect being ever, which rightly puts Elizabeth off the guy. Meanwhile without the monocle, Darcy notices Elizabeth shines anyway, and he is smitten to the point of permanent silence and freezing up in her presence. So nothing really happens between them at that point.
Elizabeth and Darcy meet again in London (finally a new path for the retelling!), and the quizzing glass makes an appearance. Lizzy accidentally finds out about the real use of it, and this triggers a very fake, preachy conflict for her in which she hates that Darcy uses it (why is it supposed to be wrong again?), and also very offended that he didn’t take it to Meryton (hypocrite Lizzy…). Later they clear this conflict and kick up the flirting, but the main problem of the story is never properly addressed or resolved.
The story mixes up two main and very different issues >>
1) Darcy questions if the supernatural object is really “magical”, if it involces “Dark Arts”, and this question is never solved. We know Darcy’s father and grandfather used it all the time for years, yet “sparingly” (confusing), and that helped their fortunes & estate prosper. Why is this a problem again? There is no magical warning or dark danger to the device, so why extend this internal doubt so long through the story??
2) the moral question about relying on an external (magical?) object to judge people and “isolate” onself from the risks of real life interactions = Darcy has relied on the object to cut off people who pose some danger, and as an excuse to avoid social situations. Meanwhile Elizabeth judges Darcy very, very harshly on this, because she is very clear (insufferable!) about how using the quizzing glass is “wrong” somehow.
Abother problem to the story is that Darcy is interested in Elizabeth because she has a literal shine about her, and later focuses on her qualities because of it. So the entire love story is WEAKENED by the magical object instead of enhanced by it, in my opinion!
There was some crisis climax towards the end when there is a big party ahead of Jane’s wedding, where Lydia and Wickham put up a scene involving the quizzing glass, ending in a public Wickham - Darcy confrontation. All is solved with much ease and very little reader satisfaction, to my taste… there is a short cutesy Epilogue that did nothing for me, nor for offering closure in regard to the main topics around the magical device.
Review of advance copy received from Verlag
After the death of his father young Fitzwilliam Darcy does not only inherit Pemberley and the responsibility but also an old family piece - a special quizzing glass. First he only uses it to decipher unreadable documents but soon he discovers its true potential - the quizzing glass can show the true character of a person. The bad are surrounded by gray and black and the good are surrounded by light.
When Darcy visits his friend Bingley on his new estate Netherfield he does not take the quizzing glass with him, thinking there is no use for it in the country. But then he encounters Elizabeth Bennet - and she is surrounded by a magnificent glow he can see without even using the quizzing glass.
After their first encounter and his insult to her person Elizabeth is determined to never think of the aloof Mr Darcy. But yet she is still drawn to him. Soon she begins to discover his true character and learns about his mysterious quizzing glass.
Will Darcy be able to judge Elizabeth’s character without the help of his quizzing glass? Why is she surrounded by such a glowing light? And will Elizabeth even trust him and his judgement when she learns about his former reliance on the quizzing glass?
The story was very well written by the author Jan Ashton. I always like her style of writing and her stories very much and have therefore enjoyed this one, too.
This story has a touch of magic because Darcy’s quizzing glass has supernatural abilities, it can show him the true character of a person by simply looking at them through the quizzing glass.
The Darcy in this story is a rather uncertain one. After the death of his father, who also used the quizzing glass and was known to be a good judge of character and to never be wrong, Darcy has large shoes to fill. I can understand that such an heritage leaves one rather flustered and uncertain. Darcy therefore often mistrusts his own judgment and asks himself if he does the right thing. In my opinion the use of the quizzing glass enlarged his own uncertainty because he now thinks that he can only judge properly without using the quizzing glass and that his own judgement can not be that good. I’m sorry for Darcy that he experiences such feelings because I’m sure that, without ever knowing of the quizzing glass, he would have gained more self certainty and he would also have done everything in a satisfying manner without the use of the quizzing glass.
But because of his father as a role model and his own heavy use of the quizzing glass Darcy becomes a role model of his own. Bingley and his sisters praise him heavily before he even has set foot into Meryton. He is praised in such a way that it is truly difficult to not disappoint. I’m sorry for Darcy because living with such high expectations on one’s person can not be easy. One is surely bound to fail in some sorts.
What I really liked was the trust Darcy has in Elizabeth. He even trusts her with the secret of his quizzing glass and lets her use it. I like that Elizabeth honors this trust and that the use of the quizzing lets her finally understand some things better.
I like Elizabeth in this variation. In the beginning she is insulted but as she comes to know Darcy better she more relies on her experience with him and what she observes and is therefore able to put the past aside and does not cling to her prejudices. Later she has harsh words for Darcy when she discovers the secret of the quizzing glass and Darcy’s use of it, but when Darcy is confronted with harming obstacles she does her best to protect him and his reputation. I also like that she falls in love with him without even realizing it at first and that he therefore becomes gradually very important for her.
As always Wickham tries his best to put Darcy in an unfavorable light and harm him, but fortunately not successful. I really like the way Darcy and Elizabeth deal with him in the end, a very nice solution ;-) . But it’s not only Wickham who hinders an earlier relationship but Darcy’s quizzing glass and his use of it.
If you like to know how an inherited quizzing glass can both help and hinder Darcy in dealing with others you should definitely read this variation.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Darcy visits his friend Bingley on his new estate Netherfield he does not take the quizzing glass with him, thinking there is no use for it in the country. But then he encounters Elizabeth Bennet - and she is surrounded by a magnificent glow he can see without even using the quizzing glass.
After their first encounter and his insult to her person Elizabeth is determined to never think of the aloof Mr Darcy. But yet she is still drawn to him. Soon she begins to discover his true character and learns about his mysterious quizzing glass.
Will Darcy be able to judge Elizabeth’s character without the help of his quizzing glass? Why is she surrounded by such a glowing light? And will Elizabeth even trust him and his judgement when she learns about his former reliance on the quizzing glass?
The story was very well written by the author Jan Ashton. I always like her style of writing and her stories very much and have therefore enjoyed this one, too.
This story has a touch of magic because Darcy’s quizzing glass has supernatural abilities, it can show him the true character of a person by simply looking at them through the quizzing glass.
The Darcy in this story is a rather uncertain one. After the death of his father, who also used the quizzing glass and was known to be a good judge of character and to never be wrong, Darcy has large shoes to fill. I can understand that such an heritage leaves one rather flustered and uncertain. Darcy therefore often mistrusts his own judgment and asks himself if he does the right thing. In my opinion the use of the quizzing glass enlarged his own uncertainty because he now thinks that he can only judge properly without using the quizzing glass and that his own judgement can not be that good. I’m sorry for Darcy that he experiences such feelings because I’m sure that, without ever knowing of the quizzing glass, he would have gained more self certainty and he would also have done everything in a satisfying manner without the use of the quizzing glass.
But because of his father as a role model and his own heavy use of the quizzing glass Darcy becomes a role model of his own. Bingley and his sisters praise him heavily before he even has set foot into Meryton. He is praised in such a way that it is truly difficult to not disappoint. I’m sorry for Darcy because living with such high expectations on one’s person can not be easy. One is surely bound to fail in some sorts.
What I really liked was the trust Darcy has in Elizabeth. He even trusts her with the secret of his quizzing glass and lets her use it. I like that Elizabeth honors this trust and that the use of the quizzing lets her finally understand some things better.
I like Elizabeth in this variation. In the beginning she is insulted but as she comes to know Darcy better she more relies on her experience with him and what she observes and is therefore able to put the past aside and does not cling to her prejudices. Later she has harsh words for Darcy when she discovers the secret of the quizzing glass and Darcy’s use of it, but when Darcy is confronted with harming obstacles she does her best to protect him and his reputation. I also like that she falls in love with him without even realizing it at first and that he therefore becomes gradually very important for her.
As always Wickham tries his best to put Darcy in an unfavorable light and harm him, but fortunately not successful. I really like the way Darcy and Elizabeth deal with him in the end, a very nice solution ;-) . But it’s not only Wickham who hinders an earlier relationship but Darcy’s quizzing glass and his use of it.
If you like to know how an inherited quizzing glass can both help and hinder Darcy in dealing with others you should definitely read this variation.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 24, 2026
Rating: 3.5
I've had a chance to read many of Jan Ashton's Pride and Prejudice variations and can always count on her to bring an entertaining twist to my favorite of Austen's books. Mr. Darcy's Quizzing Glass is yet another one to add to the list and a story that you can pick up and cozy up to over a weekend.
Ashton weaves a bit of the fantastical into the original P&P tale when Darcy inherits a quizzing glass from his father that is no ordinary object. The glass allows the viewer to see the character makeup of anyone it is pointed at--personified through color like auras. While he had received a bit of warning about how and when to use the quizzing glass, a young Darcy overwhelmed with the prospect of becoming master of Pemberley and insecure in his ability to truly understand the character of others, soon comes to rely on the glass more than he knows he should. It does mean that this Darcy gets the chance to protect Georgiana in ways that Austen's Darcy could not.
However, much like Austen's original, Darcy's world is turned upside down when his path crosses with Elizabeth Bennet. Without his quizzing glass, Darcy is forced to muddle through awkward social engagements and interactions in the Hertfordshire countryside. While at the Meryton ball, he is shocked to find that the Bennet sister who he spurned for a set has the brightest and warmest of lights that emanates from within her. Even more strange, it is something that he can see without the quizzing glass and that with each passing day, finds himself more and more dangerously drawn to.
Once again, as readers we get the joy of watching how Darcy is challenged to grow and improve through his interactions with Elizabeth. As she becomes more curious about the stoic man from Derbyshire and his quizzing glass, Elizabeth soon comes to learn truths Darcy had rather kept hidden. He comes to wonder if in relying so heavily on the glass, he has actually missed out on true opportunities to connect with others who could enrich his life--especially a charming young woman from Longbourn. And of course, what is this tale without some well timed mischief from Wickham and his schemes. Will Darcy be able to regain Elizabeth's trust and believe in the power of his own judgement before it's too late? You will have to read and find out!
This variation is fun, light and has the perfect touch of magic. I also always love when there is a good epilogue to show us just what happens after our favorite couple works through their challenges. I read this book in two days and recommend for anyone who is looking for a low angst, sweet and quick hit of Austen fun.
I've had a chance to read many of Jan Ashton's Pride and Prejudice variations and can always count on her to bring an entertaining twist to my favorite of Austen's books. Mr. Darcy's Quizzing Glass is yet another one to add to the list and a story that you can pick up and cozy up to over a weekend.
Ashton weaves a bit of the fantastical into the original P&P tale when Darcy inherits a quizzing glass from his father that is no ordinary object. The glass allows the viewer to see the character makeup of anyone it is pointed at--personified through color like auras. While he had received a bit of warning about how and when to use the quizzing glass, a young Darcy overwhelmed with the prospect of becoming master of Pemberley and insecure in his ability to truly understand the character of others, soon comes to rely on the glass more than he knows he should. It does mean that this Darcy gets the chance to protect Georgiana in ways that Austen's Darcy could not.
However, much like Austen's original, Darcy's world is turned upside down when his path crosses with Elizabeth Bennet. Without his quizzing glass, Darcy is forced to muddle through awkward social engagements and interactions in the Hertfordshire countryside. While at the Meryton ball, he is shocked to find that the Bennet sister who he spurned for a set has the brightest and warmest of lights that emanates from within her. Even more strange, it is something that he can see without the quizzing glass and that with each passing day, finds himself more and more dangerously drawn to.
Once again, as readers we get the joy of watching how Darcy is challenged to grow and improve through his interactions with Elizabeth. As she becomes more curious about the stoic man from Derbyshire and his quizzing glass, Elizabeth soon comes to learn truths Darcy had rather kept hidden. He comes to wonder if in relying so heavily on the glass, he has actually missed out on true opportunities to connect with others who could enrich his life--especially a charming young woman from Longbourn. And of course, what is this tale without some well timed mischief from Wickham and his schemes. Will Darcy be able to regain Elizabeth's trust and believe in the power of his own judgement before it's too late? You will have to read and find out!
This variation is fun, light and has the perfect touch of magic. I also always love when there is a good epilogue to show us just what happens after our favorite couple works through their challenges. I read this book in two days and recommend for anyone who is looking for a low angst, sweet and quick hit of Austen fun.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
No Lens Required
In Jan Ashton’s latest novel, Darcy sees what others do not when observing people through his family’s quizzing glass, an heirloom passed down through generations. He has come to depend on how it reveals a person’s character in light and shadow, and since his father’s death, it has long shaped the way he judges the world and guides his decisions regarding Pemberley. Yet in Hertfordshire, when he goes to assist Bingley, he purposely leaves it behind in London.
Highly praised to the neighbourhood in advance of his coming by the Netherfield party, Darcy arrives with their expectations already formed, especially Elizabeth’s. The infamous insult does occur, but refreshingly, it is off-page with just a mention or two in conversations. I liked that the writing wasn’t weighed down by yet another rendering of a scene we all know by heart; Ashton keeps the story moving with confidence, and it still sets the stage for Elizabeth’s usual prejudice of him and use of her critical tongue.
And then Darcy gazes upon Elizabeth with his own unaided eyes. To his surprise, he can still perceive something luminous about her.
Elizabeth accidentally comes to understand the power of the quizzing glass through an unexpected glimpse into the lens. After her initial shock, she challenges Darcy—not for possessing the glass, but for allowing it to replace his own natural discernment.
Elizabeth, too, is forced to reconsider her assumptions. In reflecting on his choice to leave the glass behind, she begins to question whether she judged him too quickly. If he did not rely on enchanted sight in Meryton, and had not used the glass on her, then perhaps his regard for her was not magic-influenced at all, but wholly his own.
The tension sharpens a bit when Wickham sees an opportunity to suggest that Darcy practises magic or witchcraft. In a satisfying reversal, when the truth about the glass is threatened to be revealed, it is Elizabeth who comes to his rescue.
With a gentle touch of magic and low angst, combined with good banter and dialogue, Ashton uses the quizzing glass as a clever device to test Darcy’s growth, not sparing him from the need to change. The glass may illuminate others, but it is Elizabeth who teaches Darcy how to see.
Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In Jan Ashton’s latest novel, Darcy sees what others do not when observing people through his family’s quizzing glass, an heirloom passed down through generations. He has come to depend on how it reveals a person’s character in light and shadow, and since his father’s death, it has long shaped the way he judges the world and guides his decisions regarding Pemberley. Yet in Hertfordshire, when he goes to assist Bingley, he purposely leaves it behind in London.
Highly praised to the neighbourhood in advance of his coming by the Netherfield party, Darcy arrives with their expectations already formed, especially Elizabeth’s. The infamous insult does occur, but refreshingly, it is off-page with just a mention or two in conversations. I liked that the writing wasn’t weighed down by yet another rendering of a scene we all know by heart; Ashton keeps the story moving with confidence, and it still sets the stage for Elizabeth’s usual prejudice of him and use of her critical tongue.
And then Darcy gazes upon Elizabeth with his own unaided eyes. To his surprise, he can still perceive something luminous about her.
Elizabeth accidentally comes to understand the power of the quizzing glass through an unexpected glimpse into the lens. After her initial shock, she challenges Darcy—not for possessing the glass, but for allowing it to replace his own natural discernment.
Elizabeth, too, is forced to reconsider her assumptions. In reflecting on his choice to leave the glass behind, she begins to question whether she judged him too quickly. If he did not rely on enchanted sight in Meryton, and had not used the glass on her, then perhaps his regard for her was not magic-influenced at all, but wholly his own.
The tension sharpens a bit when Wickham sees an opportunity to suggest that Darcy practises magic or witchcraft. In a satisfying reversal, when the truth about the glass is threatened to be revealed, it is Elizabeth who comes to his rescue.
With a gentle touch of magic and low angst, combined with good banter and dialogue, Ashton uses the quizzing glass as a clever device to test Darcy’s growth, not sparing him from the need to change. The glass may illuminate others, but it is Elizabeth who teaches Darcy how to see.
Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“It’s gaze may pierce the veils of men, yet use it sparingly and with a heart most steadfast.” (quote from the book)
Upon the death of his father, Mr. Darcy has inherited all…even the quizzing glass that his father, his grandfather and others before him used. Little did he know the true capabilities of it when he first thought to use it to when reviewing some ledgers. And when he does learn its true worth, he vows to use it sparingly.
“Am I unable to choose my own bride? Is my judgment so weak, my will so irresolute that I rely too much upon its powers alone?
Mr. Darcy has come to depend on his quizzing glass for too long. Though it has helped him from hiring an unsuitable companion for Georgiana and guided him away from those in the ton who wished to use him, he decides to leave it locked in his desk at Darcy House when he goes to assist Mr. Bingley at Netherfield Park. However, his friend and sisters have been busy making Mr. Darcy into a paragon among men and how discerning he is in all things. Elizabeth Bennet cannot wait to meet him…”he is either a dandy or a man unwilling to wear spectacles.”
“Never had he seen the lights and shades of a person without the quizzing glass, and here he was seeing this…bright and dazzling yet soft and alluring light unlike any he could recall.” (quote from the book)
Mr Darcy is completely taken aback by what he sees when he meets Miss Elizabeth Bennet. And it is here where I will leave off saying more. Just know that this novel is a delightful mix of wonder and banter and how both Elizabeth and Darcy both need to have their own epiphanies in order to move forward and grow. And how Mr. Wickham tries his charms and wiles on the residents of Meryton to undermine Mr. Darcy.
I do recommend this unique twist Ms. Ashton has created. It is clever and enjoyable.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Upon the death of his father, Mr. Darcy has inherited all…even the quizzing glass that his father, his grandfather and others before him used. Little did he know the true capabilities of it when he first thought to use it to when reviewing some ledgers. And when he does learn its true worth, he vows to use it sparingly.
“Am I unable to choose my own bride? Is my judgment so weak, my will so irresolute that I rely too much upon its powers alone?
Mr. Darcy has come to depend on his quizzing glass for too long. Though it has helped him from hiring an unsuitable companion for Georgiana and guided him away from those in the ton who wished to use him, he decides to leave it locked in his desk at Darcy House when he goes to assist Mr. Bingley at Netherfield Park. However, his friend and sisters have been busy making Mr. Darcy into a paragon among men and how discerning he is in all things. Elizabeth Bennet cannot wait to meet him…”he is either a dandy or a man unwilling to wear spectacles.”
“Never had he seen the lights and shades of a person without the quizzing glass, and here he was seeing this…bright and dazzling yet soft and alluring light unlike any he could recall.” (quote from the book)
Mr Darcy is completely taken aback by what he sees when he meets Miss Elizabeth Bennet. And it is here where I will leave off saying more. Just know that this novel is a delightful mix of wonder and banter and how both Elizabeth and Darcy both need to have their own epiphanies in order to move forward and grow. And how Mr. Wickham tries his charms and wiles on the residents of Meryton to undermine Mr. Darcy.
I do recommend this unique twist Ms. Ashton has created. It is clever and enjoyable.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What a fun twist on Pride and Prejudice in this clever variation!
I tend to think of Mr Darcy as a pretty confident and self-assured fellow. However, grief and a lack of confidence after becoming the master of Pemberley unexpectedly requires Darcy to need some extra help, which he finds in the form of his father's Quizzing Glass. It isn't magic, but it helps to highlight the true character of people and you can imagine how handy that might be! The Glass ends up being a bit of a catalyst in Darcy's tacitutnity because he KNOWS when people are disingenuous or have other motives.
“You, aglow, unnerve me, knock sense from me, and I struggle to understand why only you, of the hundreds of people I have met in my life, appear so.”
However, his reliance on it creates much tension when he meets Elizabeth and can't trust himself to discern her true nature. I spent much of the story wondering if and when he would cave in and use it. Elizabeth's reaction to finding out about it wasn't good, and it was a bit of a surprise to me because I thought they were in a bit of a better place. Fortunately, they figure it out just in time for a showdown with Wickham. I think that scene was my favorite!
Overall, I found the story to be engaging and well-written, but for a little lack in chemistry between ODC. I would recommend this story based on originality, low angst, and a guaranteed HEA.
I tend to think of Mr Darcy as a pretty confident and self-assured fellow. However, grief and a lack of confidence after becoming the master of Pemberley unexpectedly requires Darcy to need some extra help, which he finds in the form of his father's Quizzing Glass. It isn't magic, but it helps to highlight the true character of people and you can imagine how handy that might be! The Glass ends up being a bit of a catalyst in Darcy's tacitutnity because he KNOWS when people are disingenuous or have other motives.
“You, aglow, unnerve me, knock sense from me, and I struggle to understand why only you, of the hundreds of people I have met in my life, appear so.”
However, his reliance on it creates much tension when he meets Elizabeth and can't trust himself to discern her true nature. I spent much of the story wondering if and when he would cave in and use it. Elizabeth's reaction to finding out about it wasn't good, and it was a bit of a surprise to me because I thought they were in a bit of a better place. Fortunately, they figure it out just in time for a showdown with Wickham. I think that scene was my favorite!
Overall, I found the story to be engaging and well-written, but for a little lack in chemistry between ODC. I would recommend this story based on originality, low angst, and a guaranteed HEA.
Review of advance copy
Magic always comes with a price.
Darcy inherits an heirloom, one which can be quite useful. The quizzing glass is more mystical than magical, but the Darcy men seem to take it too far.
Therefore, when invited to visit Bingley, Darcy feels compelled to leave it behind. Instinctively, he felt he might be relying on it too much. Then he meets Elizabeth and the shock of it sends our dear boy into a tailspin.
The quizzing glass ends up taking center stage later in the story, to Darcy's regret, when Elizabeth doesn't receive the use of the item well.
What I liked were the moments when he allowed himself to relax around her. You could tell the potential for friendship, and more, was there. These were human interaction scenes with no hang ups, just a hint of burgeoning romance.
An engaging story on so many levels. A floundering Darcy, a strong Bingley, and Elizabeth doesn't necessarily fall for Wickhams lies.
A part of me wished it was longer, but on second thought, the story is just right, because its all well balanced. Interesting artifact-check, clueless guy-check, pretty lady who leaves him gobsmacked-double check!
4.5
I received an advance copy and voluntarily leave my review.
Darcy inherits an heirloom, one which can be quite useful. The quizzing glass is more mystical than magical, but the Darcy men seem to take it too far.
Therefore, when invited to visit Bingley, Darcy feels compelled to leave it behind. Instinctively, he felt he might be relying on it too much. Then he meets Elizabeth and the shock of it sends our dear boy into a tailspin.
The quizzing glass ends up taking center stage later in the story, to Darcy's regret, when Elizabeth doesn't receive the use of the item well.
What I liked were the moments when he allowed himself to relax around her. You could tell the potential for friendship, and more, was there. These were human interaction scenes with no hang ups, just a hint of burgeoning romance.
An engaging story on so many levels. A floundering Darcy, a strong Bingley, and Elizabeth doesn't necessarily fall for Wickhams lies.
A part of me wished it was longer, but on second thought, the story is just right, because its all well balanced. Interesting artifact-check, clueless guy-check, pretty lady who leaves him gobsmacked-double check!
4.5
I received an advance copy and voluntarily leave my review.
Review of advance copy
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Fitzwilliam Darcy is overwhelmed to inherit the vast Pemberley estate in his early twenties.
Discerning who to trust and who wants to take advantage is a significant challenge.
When struggling to decypher ledgers, he searches his study for a magnifying glass.
What he finds is his father's quizzing glass, a bejeweled trinket used by several generations of Darcys.
He is shocked to find that the glass has mysterious properties. When he realises that it shows a person's true character, it becomes an essential tool.
Over the years, he relies heavily on the glass but in doing so, does nothing to develop his own ability to judge wisely.
Elizabeth Bennet and Darcy cross paths at the Meryton Assembly. She is unimpressed with him. He is captivated by her.
The quizzing glass becomes a bone of contention, a subject of envy and even provokes accusations of witchcraft!
A good variation, with a novel twist.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Fitzwilliam Darcy is overwhelmed to inherit the vast Pemberley estate in his early twenties.
Discerning who to trust and who wants to take advantage is a significant challenge.
When struggling to decypher ledgers, he searches his study for a magnifying glass.
What he finds is his father's quizzing glass, a bejeweled trinket used by several generations of Darcys.
He is shocked to find that the glass has mysterious properties. When he realises that it shows a person's true character, it becomes an essential tool.
Over the years, he relies heavily on the glass but in doing so, does nothing to develop his own ability to judge wisely.
Elizabeth Bennet and Darcy cross paths at the Meryton Assembly. She is unimpressed with him. He is captivated by her.
The quizzing glass becomes a bone of contention, a subject of envy and even provokes accusations of witchcraft!
A good variation, with a novel twist.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
“I liked him,” she told the crow sitting on the fencepost. “But I like onions as well, and they never agree with me.”
The Mr Darcy, the senior, the junior, the past, or the present one, has a quizzing glass. It is a Darcy heirloom and the Darcy pride. And mysteriously, it’s a shortcut to people’s character. A happy, low-angst story told by the author, with such talent and such humour, is absolutely a fun read. There are so many lines that just cracked me up.
It is a heartwarming idea that not only what the quizzing glass was representing, but also the reliance and the transformation of the wearer perceived from the interaction between Darcy and glass. More importantly, what Elizabeth brought to the relationship, which was to act as Darcy’s glass, a help to assist his understanding and judgement! All these are so true and practical, yet terribly romantic. Love it!
The Mr Darcy, the senior, the junior, the past, or the present one, has a quizzing glass. It is a Darcy heirloom and the Darcy pride. And mysteriously, it’s a shortcut to people’s character. A happy, low-angst story told by the author, with such talent and such humour, is absolutely a fun read. There are so many lines that just cracked me up.
It is a heartwarming idea that not only what the quizzing glass was representing, but also the reliance and the transformation of the wearer perceived from the interaction between Darcy and glass. More importantly, what Elizabeth brought to the relationship, which was to act as Darcy’s glass, a help to assist his understanding and judgement! All these are so true and practical, yet terribly romantic. Love it!
March 23, 2026
I enjoyed Mr Darcy's Quizzing Glass very much. This story has a magical element, a quizzing glass Darcy inherits from his father that shows a person's true character, whether he is good or bad. I liked the idea that Darcy uses the quizzing glass to see other people's true nature so much that it allows him to avoid and not bother socializing with others and get to know their true characters, that people believe he is haughty, arrogant and aloof. He also becomes quite reliant on it. Everything changes when he meets Elizabeth Bennet in Hertfordshire. I don't want to reveal too much. I will just say that their meeting causes him to understand himself better and change his behavior.
This is a charming and enjoyable variation that I found to be sweet and engaging. I highly recommend it to those seeking a Darcy and Elizabeth story with low angst and an entertaining plot.
This is a charming and enjoyable variation that I found to be sweet and engaging. I highly recommend it to those seeking a Darcy and Elizabeth story with low angst and an entertaining plot.
March 23, 2026
A very entertaining and very unique variation - 4.5*
I very much appreciated the idea that Darcy, who does tend to lean to the belts-and-braces, finds he needs to rely on something tangible rather than on his own understanding. I also very much appreciated the way that Elizabeth steadily and gently nudged him out of this habit.
This book was lots of fun with plenty of wit but also plenty of plot. The story flows smoothly and the characters are fully developed. As the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth develops there are hurdles to be overcome but they are not too onerous and do not cause too much inconvenience.
A very enjoyable read.
I very much appreciated the idea that Darcy, who does tend to lean to the belts-and-braces, finds he needs to rely on something tangible rather than on his own understanding. I also very much appreciated the way that Elizabeth steadily and gently nudged him out of this habit.
This book was lots of fun with plenty of wit but also plenty of plot. The story flows smoothly and the characters are fully developed. As the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth develops there are hurdles to be overcome but they are not too onerous and do not cause too much inconvenience.
A very enjoyable read.
March 25, 2026
Intriguing story
Darcy has a secret which makes him wealthy, astute and lonely. His mystical quizzing glass gives him insight into the true characters of those he meets. Then he encounters Elizabeth, who undoes his careful approach to his relationships with others.
The book is written and edited extremely well, with good character development and an intriguing plot. A most enjoyable read!
Darcy has a secret which makes him wealthy, astute and lonely. His mystical quizzing glass gives him insight into the true characters of those he meets. Then he encounters Elizabeth, who undoes his careful approach to his relationships with others.
The book is written and edited extremely well, with good character development and an intriguing plot. A most enjoyable read!
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