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Best Served Cold: Seven Pride and Prejudice Revenge Stories
Revenge is a dish best served cold, meaning it’s better to think carefully and enact a calculated revenge at a time and place of your choosing than to act precipitately in the heat of the moment. Of course, Marcus Arelius says, ‘The best revenge is living well,’ and Confucius says, ‘Before you set out on a course of revenge, first dig two graves.’
This collection of Revenge Stories examines the idea from several angles. We have short stories and a novella, with the revenge going from rather silly to quite violent. I’ve always been frustrated with stories where the characters just take it, so let’s see what happens when the injured take matters into their own hands.
Best Served Cold : Bingley really was a feckless weasel with leaving his sister to write to Jane after he bailed on her at Netherfield. Even if he let Darcy convince him to leave, would it have killed him to take his leave like a man, or write to her father, or somehow do something to mitigate his lack of fortitude and consideration? What happens if someone decides to get a bit of sweet-sweet revenge. Would she even care if someone else was in the firing line?
Paying the Piper : What would happen if some little birdie told the Meryton merchants about Wickham’s debts, and suggested they demand payment? I always wondered how he managed to pull it off—but what if he didn’t.
The Prejection : We all know the Regency system. The man proposes, and the lady accepts or rejects it. The lady is, of course, obliged to demurely wait around for the lunkhead to make his move (unless, of course, you are Caroline Bingley, or the like, where all bets are off). What if there was a more efficient system?
Special Delivery : Letters really were such a wrought subject. A letter can save someone a lot of confusion (like Darcy’s letter), or it could ruin someone’s reputation. People are expected to handle them with care and privacy (with the obvious exception of Mrs Bennet), but what happens if a personal letter ends up in the hands of someone who can do something about it?
Cash on the Nail : Wickham left debts everywhere he went, and for the most part, he got away with it. Darcy discharged those in Lambton, and he just kept moving in London What happens if one of those creditors decides he's not willing to let it slide, and he has enough muscle to do something about it.
Their Own Snake : In many ways, the Bennet's troubles were a case of being bitten by their own snakes. Bingley's abandonment of Jane was mostly driven by the poor behaviour of the Bennets at the Netherfield ball, and Elizabeth's naïve acceptance of Wickham's words, and finally, Lydia's elopement was entirely driven by her parent's negligence. What if one of the sisters decided to do something about it?
Sleep of the Just : All of the Bennets are very ordinary and their adventures around the arrival of the Netherfield party were similarly benign. What if one of the Bennets were not ordinary, and was in fact in possession of a preternatural ability coupled with overly heightened senses of both responsibility and resolve? How would that person act, and how would that change the story.
These are not the passive heroines you remember, waiting for fate to intervene. In this collection, the women are the architects of their own destiny, wielding vengeance as deftly as embroidery needles.
This collection of Revenge Stories examines the idea from several angles. We have short stories and a novella, with the revenge going from rather silly to quite violent. I’ve always been frustrated with stories where the characters just take it, so let’s see what happens when the injured take matters into their own hands.
Best Served Cold : Bingley really was a feckless weasel with leaving his sister to write to Jane after he bailed on her at Netherfield. Even if he let Darcy convince him to leave, would it have killed him to take his leave like a man, or write to her father, or somehow do something to mitigate his lack of fortitude and consideration? What happens if someone decides to get a bit of sweet-sweet revenge. Would she even care if someone else was in the firing line?
Paying the Piper : What would happen if some little birdie told the Meryton merchants about Wickham’s debts, and suggested they demand payment? I always wondered how he managed to pull it off—but what if he didn’t.
The Prejection : We all know the Regency system. The man proposes, and the lady accepts or rejects it. The lady is, of course, obliged to demurely wait around for the lunkhead to make his move (unless, of course, you are Caroline Bingley, or the like, where all bets are off). What if there was a more efficient system?
Special Delivery : Letters really were such a wrought subject. A letter can save someone a lot of confusion (like Darcy’s letter), or it could ruin someone’s reputation. People are expected to handle them with care and privacy (with the obvious exception of Mrs Bennet), but what happens if a personal letter ends up in the hands of someone who can do something about it?
Cash on the Nail : Wickham left debts everywhere he went, and for the most part, he got away with it. Darcy discharged those in Lambton, and he just kept moving in London What happens if one of those creditors decides he's not willing to let it slide, and he has enough muscle to do something about it.
Their Own Snake : In many ways, the Bennet's troubles were a case of being bitten by their own snakes. Bingley's abandonment of Jane was mostly driven by the poor behaviour of the Bennets at the Netherfield ball, and Elizabeth's naïve acceptance of Wickham's words, and finally, Lydia's elopement was entirely driven by her parent's negligence. What if one of the sisters decided to do something about it?
Sleep of the Just : All of the Bennets are very ordinary and their adventures around the arrival of the Netherfield party were similarly benign. What if one of the Bennets were not ordinary, and was in fact in possession of a preternatural ability coupled with overly heightened senses of both responsibility and resolve? How would that person act, and how would that change the story.
These are not the passive heroines you remember, waiting for fate to intervene. In this collection, the women are the architects of their own destiny, wielding vengeance as deftly as embroidery needles.
- GenresRegency
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 14, 2025
109 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 1, 2026
A dish best served collection.
A short and sweet review for some entertaining short stories. I thoroughly enjoyed these seven stories. Revenge was on the author’s mind with each of them, but he never lost sight of the HEA. Some I would have enjoyed seeing developed into a full novel, I am sure. Well done!
Recommend.
A short and sweet review for some entertaining short stories. I thoroughly enjoyed these seven stories. Revenge was on the author’s mind with each of them, but he never lost sight of the HEA. Some I would have enjoyed seeing developed into a full novel, I am sure. Well done!
Recommend.
December 23, 2025
Once upon a time their was revenge
One novella, small amount of short stories. The way the revenge was planned and happened was lots of fun. These read as fables. Funny in places but the total absence of negative emotions and Lizzy often being a shrew kept me from rating 5 stars.
One novella, small amount of short stories. The way the revenge was planned and happened was lots of fun. These read as fables. Funny in places but the total absence of negative emotions and Lizzy often being a shrew kept me from rating 5 stars.
February 1, 2026
Wonderful
Fun and sensational short stories about girl power run amok. In his usual style, Mr Mann's characters are very forthright, the villains get spectacular comeuppances, and the romance is lovely. Be prepared for rampant cynicism and behavior completely outside the box of the usual Regency era stiffness and artificiality. I love the witty banter that both shocks and amuses. But also be prepared to suspend belief and just go with the flow. It's a wild ride but you won't be disappointed. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly for some great fun and wonderful surprises.
Fun and sensational short stories about girl power run amok. In his usual style, Mr Mann's characters are very forthright, the villains get spectacular comeuppances, and the romance is lovely. Be prepared for rampant cynicism and behavior completely outside the box of the usual Regency era stiffness and artificiality. I love the witty banter that both shocks and amuses. But also be prepared to suspend belief and just go with the flow. It's a wild ride but you won't be disappointed. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly for some great fun and wonderful surprises.
December 18, 2025
1. Best Served Cold - Jane Bennet seeks revenge on Charles Bingley after he left Netherfield.
2. Paying the Piper - Who is calling Wickham out for his debts and behaviour.
3. The Prejection - At the end of the Netherfield Ball Darcy informs Elizabeth he has no intentions towards her.
4. Special Delivery - Who and why sends Caroline Bingley's letter to Jane to Darcy.
5. Cash on the Nail - Gardiner has a bill of sale from 'Darcy' and so visits him.
6. Their Own Snake - After Lydia eloped another daughter takes action.
7. Sleep of the Just - What will a Bennet daughter with an extra powerful sense do with this power.
Entertaining and well-written stories. Six and seven being my favourites
2. Paying the Piper - Who is calling Wickham out for his debts and behaviour.
3. The Prejection - At the end of the Netherfield Ball Darcy informs Elizabeth he has no intentions towards her.
4. Special Delivery - Who and why sends Caroline Bingley's letter to Jane to Darcy.
5. Cash on the Nail - Gardiner has a bill of sale from 'Darcy' and so visits him.
6. Their Own Snake - After Lydia eloped another daughter takes action.
7. Sleep of the Just - What will a Bennet daughter with an extra powerful sense do with this power.
Entertaining and well-written stories. Six and seven being my favourites
January 3, 2026
And written by a creative mind
4.5* rounded up
I derived so much enjoyment from this collection of short stories that I purchased the hardcopy without having finished the last two. By the time the book arrived two days later, I had, of course, been delighted by the last two Mary-dominated plots. Such fun to read of such schemes!
4.5* rounded up
I derived so much enjoyment from this collection of short stories that I purchased the hardcopy without having finished the last two. By the time the book arrived two days later, I had, of course, been delighted by the last two Mary-dominated plots. Such fun to read of such schemes!
December 18, 2025
absolutely delightful compilation
Admire Mr Mann’s work took chance on short story (not my fav style) compilation. Enjoyed every minute—Dialogue is very often snappy, plotting is fast paced, main characters written with amusing satirical flair (Jane Bennet’s story proves she’s not gonna take her repudiation on the chin) all factors kept me interested so finished the book in one evening. Some stories have clever HEA’s, some have more hopeful, subtle endings, some endings are delightfully obscure — but the final story is without a doubt the most compelling imo & sublime in a gothic tale kinda way; Not for all ages due to surprisingly aggressive content, prolly more suitable 14+ age reader. Def recommend this book + will read again and again. (Plz Mr Mann, would u give us more details of Mary B’s hidden life? Her short story was everything delightful, but not enough lol. Perhaps another spotlight but in longer novella or novel length?? Who knew until ur story exposed the prejudice we usually feel/read about her sermonizing that she could have such titillating depth? I was laughing out loud at her snarky inner dialogue! Her story proves possibility she may be as fascinating if not more so, as her sister Elizabeth).
Admire Mr Mann’s work took chance on short story (not my fav style) compilation. Enjoyed every minute—Dialogue is very often snappy, plotting is fast paced, main characters written with amusing satirical flair (Jane Bennet’s story proves she’s not gonna take her repudiation on the chin) all factors kept me interested so finished the book in one evening. Some stories have clever HEA’s, some have more hopeful, subtle endings, some endings are delightfully obscure — but the final story is without a doubt the most compelling imo & sublime in a gothic tale kinda way; Not for all ages due to surprisingly aggressive content, prolly more suitable 14+ age reader. Def recommend this book + will read again and again. (Plz Mr Mann, would u give us more details of Mary B’s hidden life? Her short story was everything delightful, but not enough lol. Perhaps another spotlight but in longer novella or novel length?? Who knew until ur story exposed the prejudice we usually feel/read about her sermonizing that she could have such titillating depth? I was laughing out loud at her snarky inner dialogue! Her story proves possibility she may be as fascinating if not more so, as her sister Elizabeth).
January 8, 2026
My first book of 2026. I had taken a break from P&P variations in Dec last year and wanted to start of again with quick reads. I couldn't have picked a more better book for this purpose
The book comprises of 7 short stories where someone or another exact revenge for the wrongs done. Some of the methods are ingenious., some hilarious and few far fetched but all of the stories kept me hooked
I especially loved the last two where Mary takes the center stage and its truly amazing to read. I also liked where Georgiana takes matters into her own hands
A definite read
The book comprises of 7 short stories where someone or another exact revenge for the wrongs done. Some of the methods are ingenious., some hilarious and few far fetched but all of the stories kept me hooked
I especially loved the last two where Mary takes the center stage and its truly amazing to read. I also liked where Georgiana takes matters into her own hands
A definite read
December 16, 2025
Devilishly charming.
I have a great fondness for Elizabeth in JAFF stories. I have read more than one that describes Elizabeth as having the "cheek of the devil." I dare say this author has that same attribute. After reading many, many variations, I have grown weary of the same plots. This story is original, remaining true to characteristics, while being highly entertaining and a bit outrageous. I loved it. Read it.
I have a great fondness for Elizabeth in JAFF stories. I have read more than one that describes Elizabeth as having the "cheek of the devil." I dare say this author has that same attribute. After reading many, many variations, I have grown weary of the same plots. This story is original, remaining true to characteristics, while being highly entertaining and a bit outrageous. I loved it. Read it.
December 29, 2025
Enjoyable
I will admit, I liked some stories better than others, but the 5 stars are fully for the last story, Sleep of the Just.
It might say something about ME that I enjoyed that the “author” of Sleep (who we have to figure out which of the Bennet’s is writing the story) protected their family by resorting to murder, but I make no apologies. It was also funny and gave two of my favorite characters a happy ending. I enjoyed the book.
I will admit, I liked some stories better than others, but the 5 stars are fully for the last story, Sleep of the Just.
It might say something about ME that I enjoyed that the “author” of Sleep (who we have to figure out which of the Bennet’s is writing the story) protected their family by resorting to murder, but I make no apologies. It was also funny and gave two of my favorite characters a happy ending. I enjoyed the book.
December 30, 2025
This is a delightful collection of short revenge stories. What would our favorite P&P characters do if given the opportunity to wreak a perfect revenge on their nemesis? Read these fun stories and find out. Even though the theme is revenge, there is also romance so fear not. My favorite was the last in the collection, even though it contained some over-the-top, comedic violence. Definitely worth a read.
January 8, 2026
Too Hilarious!!!
Each story is a gift in itself. I am not USUALLY a vengeful person, but the justice meted out in each story is well deserved, well executed, and just plain funny. Wickham tarred and feathered! Collins choking on a sausage (with help)! The colonel marrying a worthy woman, even if he only met her that day! Enjoy!
Each story is a gift in itself. I am not USUALLY a vengeful person, but the justice meted out in each story is well deserved, well executed, and just plain funny. Wickham tarred and feathered! Collins choking on a sausage (with help)! The colonel marrying a worthy woman, even if he only met her that day! Enjoy!
February 1, 2026
I LOVED this book!
Wade Mann is ingenious. I usually avoid books of short stories because I like the longer form. I am grateful I picked up this book and read it; in addition to being wonderful stories about our beloved Pride & Prejudice characters - it is so funny! Thank you, Wade, for these stories.
Wade Mann is ingenious. I usually avoid books of short stories because I like the longer form. I am grateful I picked up this book and read it; in addition to being wonderful stories about our beloved Pride & Prejudice characters - it is so funny! Thank you, Wade, for these stories.
February 12, 2026
Good lot of stories about revenge!
This is the first compilation of stories in one book that I have enjoyed in a long while. These stories of revenge are not such as you would expect Wickham to devise they are more subtle, careful and appropriate. I highly recommend reading this book.
This is the first compilation of stories in one book that I have enjoyed in a long while. These stories of revenge are not such as you would expect Wickham to devise they are more subtle, careful and appropriate. I highly recommend reading this book.
December 15, 2025
I love Wade Mann's books. the writing is always so witty. I laugh my way through, highlighting a ton to giggle at again later, and this was certainly no exception. Were some of the stories quite 'out there'? Of course. But I couldn't care less. I enjoyed every moment.
December 15, 2025
Delightful!
I am not normally a great fan of short stories, but these tales of revenge are pitch-perfect. Varying greatly in length and protagonists, they nonetheless are all satisfying particularly for anyone who has ever wished to punish the villains of Pride and Prejudice.
I am not normally a great fan of short stories, but these tales of revenge are pitch-perfect. Varying greatly in length and protagonists, they nonetheless are all satisfying particularly for anyone who has ever wished to punish the villains of Pride and Prejudice.
December 17, 2025
Wonderful what ifs
The book could also be titled Just Desserts as everyone satisfyingly gets what’s coming to them. I especially enjoyed Jane’s and Mary’s vengeance because they usually don’t get such a role.
The book could also be titled Just Desserts as everyone satisfyingly gets what’s coming to them. I especially enjoyed Jane’s and Mary’s vengeance because they usually don’t get such a role.
December 25, 2025
Lovely and humorous.
This book could be easily written by Missy Bennet. It is funny, witty and sharp. It is using the characters, as we know them but with light twist the story is taking its own path. Fun to read, thank you !
This book could be easily written by Missy Bennet. It is funny, witty and sharp. It is using the characters, as we know them but with light twist the story is taking its own path. Fun to read, thank you !
January 7, 2026
Mary is so underrated
I love stories where Mary is our heroine. Any author who molds a realistic character of Mary as the manifestation of smart, astute, and observably thoughtful articulate wallflower not afraid to act has me as a fan.
I love stories where Mary is our heroine. Any author who molds a realistic character of Mary as the manifestation of smart, astute, and observably thoughtful articulate wallflower not afraid to act has me as a fan.
December 17, 2025
A delightful collection
An absolutely delightful little collection of variations inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Wade H. Mann. I enjoyed it.
An absolutely delightful little collection of variations inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Wade H. Mann. I enjoyed it.
December 24, 2025
You gotta love Mary!!
This book is so entertaining and funny! I especially loved Mary’s deductions on Oakham Mount!! I was laughing so hard!
This book is so entertaining and funny! I especially loved Mary’s deductions on Oakham Mount!! I was laughing so hard!
December 31, 2025
loved it
I hate to admit it, but Mary’s tale at the end is truly hilarious. If you have not read this book, you are missing something delightful!
I hate to admit it, but Mary’s tale at the end is truly hilarious. If you have not read this book, you are missing something delightful!
January 9, 2026
Best Served Cold
Delightful. Enjoyed all but one, but let me assure you it was really fun reading all of these stories. FUN! Very well served cold!
Delightful. Enjoyed all but one, but let me assure you it was really fun reading all of these stories. FUN! Very well served cold!
January 13, 2026
an interesting compilation
I read a lot of JAFF and this was an interesting take. I like some of the stories better than others but the last was a little grim!
I read a lot of JAFF and this was an interesting take. I like some of the stories better than others but the last was a little grim!
January 22, 2026
Fun and satisfying to read!
Fun and satisfying to read!
The premise of this book of short stories is really fun to read. I loved seeing art as the main character.
Fun and satisfying to read!
The premise of this book of short stories is really fun to read. I loved seeing art as the main character.
January 24, 2026
Hilarious and cynical at once!
This book is so amusing! Even the way this Longbourn daughter dispatches Collins and Wickham is not as gory as one might fear.
Kudos.
This book is so amusing! Even the way this Longbourn daughter dispatches Collins and Wickham is not as gory as one might fear.
Kudos.
January 24, 2026
Fantastic
Funny, clever, and entertaining. A great read by a fantastic author, and Onésimo of my favoritos. This book is most definitely a keeper.
Funny, clever, and entertaining. A great read by a fantastic author, and Onésimo of my favoritos. This book is most definitely a keeper.
January 27, 2026
fun shorts
February 18, 2026
An entertaining collection of stories with a very surprising Mary entry. I was thirsting for full length expansions though.
February 23, 2026
Brilliant and funny
A lot of fun to read, good to improve your mood after a difficult day, once you start reading it is hard to put it down 🙂
A lot of fun to read, good to improve your mood after a difficult day, once you start reading it is hard to put it down 🙂
February 23, 2026
A masterpiece
One of my favorite P. And P. Fan fiction kindle books. Its a must read. Every story is delightful. Thank you to the author for this fun book!!!
One of my favorite P. And P. Fan fiction kindle books. Its a must read. Every story is delightful. Thank you to the author for this fun book!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews