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The Rom Com Collection
The Marriage Trap: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
She came to Ramsgate to recover. He came to protect his sister. Someone else came to ruin them both.
Elizabeth Bennet came to Ramsgate to recover from the worst months of her life, not to be caught in a scandal with the most insufferable man in England.
Fitzwilliam Darcy came to Ramsgate to protect his sister, not to find himself honour-bound to marry a woman who would rather throw him into the sea.
But when a forged note, a convenient witness, and one catastrophic evening leave them publicly compromised, the only way to restore their reputations is a hasty engagement neither of them chose.
Now they are married, barely acquainted, and trying to build something real from the wreckage of someone else's malice. There are separate chambers, shared responsibilities, honesty even when it stings.
There is also the unfortunate reality that Darcy is not as awful as Elizabeth assumed, and Elizabeth is not as manageable as Darcy expected. As well as the small problem of whoever engineered their downfall—because apparently, they're not finished yet.
They married to survive the scandal. Now they must survive the marriage.
The Marriage Trap is the fifth standalone novel in the Darcy & Elizabeth Rom Com Collection.
Elizabeth Bennet came to Ramsgate to recover from the worst months of her life, not to be caught in a scandal with the most insufferable man in England.
Fitzwilliam Darcy came to Ramsgate to protect his sister, not to find himself honour-bound to marry a woman who would rather throw him into the sea.
But when a forged note, a convenient witness, and one catastrophic evening leave them publicly compromised, the only way to restore their reputations is a hasty engagement neither of them chose.
Now they are married, barely acquainted, and trying to build something real from the wreckage of someone else's malice. There are separate chambers, shared responsibilities, honesty even when it stings.
There is also the unfortunate reality that Darcy is not as awful as Elizabeth assumed, and Elizabeth is not as manageable as Darcy expected. As well as the small problem of whoever engineered their downfall—because apparently, they're not finished yet.
They married to survive the scandal. Now they must survive the marriage.
The Marriage Trap is the fifth standalone novel in the Darcy & Elizabeth Rom Com Collection.
404 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 14, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 24, 2026
I also read A Proper Visit, an epilogue offered freely by the author at the end of this story.
We begin this story in Ramsgate, where Elizabeth has gone, joined by a companion, to partake of the healthy sea air as she recovers from an illness. Here, in her strolls with Mrs. Morgan, she meets and befriends Georgiana Darcy and when she detects something she is not happy with she writes Georgiana's brother with an alert. Darcy hurries to join his sister and, thus stops that elopement we are familiar with from canon.
However, Wickham and Mrs. Younge are not scurrying off now that the elopement is stopped. And so when Darcy finds himself compromising Elizabeth (and that is a story in itself) he does the honorable thing and proposes.
We find ODC making a pact of behaviors they will both observe to make this marriage work and to enable each to trust and rely on the other. And even here Darcy finds himself not quite up to par. (Don't want to spoil it.) Their relationship is one that builds slowly.
Wickham and Mrs. Younge, again, do not disappear even as they have forced this marriage upon Darcy.
A Proper Visit has us looking over Mr. Bennet's shoulder as he visits Pemberley some years later and we get to meet his grandchildren.
Sweet story, slow in pace
We begin this story in Ramsgate, where Elizabeth has gone, joined by a companion, to partake of the healthy sea air as she recovers from an illness. Here, in her strolls with Mrs. Morgan, she meets and befriends Georgiana Darcy and when she detects something she is not happy with she writes Georgiana's brother with an alert. Darcy hurries to join his sister and, thus stops that elopement we are familiar with from canon.
However, Wickham and Mrs. Younge are not scurrying off now that the elopement is stopped. And so when Darcy finds himself compromising Elizabeth (and that is a story in itself) he does the honorable thing and proposes.
We find ODC making a pact of behaviors they will both observe to make this marriage work and to enable each to trust and rely on the other. And even here Darcy finds himself not quite up to par. (Don't want to spoil it.) Their relationship is one that builds slowly.
Wickham and Mrs. Younge, again, do not disappear even as they have forced this marriage upon Darcy.
A Proper Visit has us looking over Mr. Bennet's shoulder as he visits Pemberley some years later and we get to meet his grandchildren.
Sweet story, slow in pace
May 18, 2026
After an illness afflicts her health, Elizabeth comes to Ramsgate to recover her strength. There she meets a young girl, Georgiana Darcy. They become friends but soon Elizabeth is certain that something is wrong. When Georgiana’s brother arrives some days later he is just in time to prevent the elopement of his sister with a rake. But things do take a turn for the worse when Darcy and Elizabeth are only days later caught in a scandal of their own and are now forced to marry.
As both are willing to make this marriage to a stranger work, they agree on rules: most importantly they will be totally honest to one another, they will share the responsibility and they will have separate chambers.
But the rake seems to be not done with them.
Will Darcy and Elizabeth be able to prevent further scandal? Will their rules help them in their lives together? And will they be able to find love in this unwanted arrangement?
The story was very well written by the author Melanie Rachel. Her books are always a favorite of mine and I was therefore very much looking forward to reading this one. And I was certainly not disappointed, I think this one is my new favorite of the Rom Com series (closely followed by The briar bargain). I loved this story so very much, I loved Melanie Rachel’s version of Darcy and Elizabeth as well as all the witty dialogues and scenes, especially when Darcy, Elizabeth, Georgiana and the Colonel are all involved.
I loved both Darcy and Elizabeth in this variation. Both are a bit changed in comparison to Jane Austen’s original. Elizabeth is much more mature, she is not so impertinent and she observes very much. But her assessment is correct and she does not judge harshly. Later in her marriage she uses her ability to make the union work and to understand her husband. I like that very much.
Darcy on the other hand was, most of the time, struggling to find the right words. In Elizabeth’s presence he was not even able to pay a proper compliment to her. This sometimes leads to very funny situations but he was nevertheless very sweet in his own way. At least he was not flattering but honest.
I really loved how Darcy and Elizabeth handled the situation about being forced to wed a near stranger. Both are willing to make the union work and give their best to, at least, be friendly toward each other. I also like their honesty and their willingness to change their behaviour so that it is supportive to their union.
What I enjoyed most were the scenes when Darcy, Elizabeth, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Georgiana and Mrs Morgan were together. Their conversations, especially when they are teasing Darcy for his lack of speech, are hilarious and caused some laughing out loud moments for me. They really are among the best parts of the story.
In my opinion there are two secret heroes in the story: Elizabeth’s Ramsgate companion and hostess, Mrs Morgan, and Darcy’s deaf butler Tracy. I loved both of them very much. Mrs Morgan is definitely not shy of telling the truth, even if it’s uncomfortable. And her assessment of people is always correct. I love how she measures Darcy and Elizabeth right and secretly helps them avoid mistakes or guides them to do the right thing.
Darcy’s butler Tracy has one very memorable scene in resolving a situation. One had not thought he had it in him but he is brilliant. And I think everyone involved in the situation agrees that it is a lucky thing that he is still in Darcy’s employ. But you need to read for yourselves.
If a story starts in Ramsgate one can be sure that Wickham and Mrs Young are a part of it. They try indeed to make Georgiana elope with Wickham, but they are not done with it after the elopement is prevented. Therefore they try to take revenge on Darcy for “stealing” them the right to Georgiana’s dowry. Fortunately all their planes of revenge and all the actions they take are in the end not successful.
By the way, I love the scene when they are finally caught. Full of action, but also witty and deeply satisfying.
If you like to know how Darcy and Elizabeth will cope with the situation when a scandal in Ramsgate forces them to wed, you should definitely read this excellent variation.
I highly recommend it.
As both are willing to make this marriage to a stranger work, they agree on rules: most importantly they will be totally honest to one another, they will share the responsibility and they will have separate chambers.
But the rake seems to be not done with them.
Will Darcy and Elizabeth be able to prevent further scandal? Will their rules help them in their lives together? And will they be able to find love in this unwanted arrangement?
The story was very well written by the author Melanie Rachel. Her books are always a favorite of mine and I was therefore very much looking forward to reading this one. And I was certainly not disappointed, I think this one is my new favorite of the Rom Com series (closely followed by The briar bargain). I loved this story so very much, I loved Melanie Rachel’s version of Darcy and Elizabeth as well as all the witty dialogues and scenes, especially when Darcy, Elizabeth, Georgiana and the Colonel are all involved.
I loved both Darcy and Elizabeth in this variation. Both are a bit changed in comparison to Jane Austen’s original. Elizabeth is much more mature, she is not so impertinent and she observes very much. But her assessment is correct and she does not judge harshly. Later in her marriage she uses her ability to make the union work and to understand her husband. I like that very much.
Darcy on the other hand was, most of the time, struggling to find the right words. In Elizabeth’s presence he was not even able to pay a proper compliment to her. This sometimes leads to very funny situations but he was nevertheless very sweet in his own way. At least he was not flattering but honest.
I really loved how Darcy and Elizabeth handled the situation about being forced to wed a near stranger. Both are willing to make the union work and give their best to, at least, be friendly toward each other. I also like their honesty and their willingness to change their behaviour so that it is supportive to their union.
What I enjoyed most were the scenes when Darcy, Elizabeth, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Georgiana and Mrs Morgan were together. Their conversations, especially when they are teasing Darcy for his lack of speech, are hilarious and caused some laughing out loud moments for me. They really are among the best parts of the story.
In my opinion there are two secret heroes in the story: Elizabeth’s Ramsgate companion and hostess, Mrs Morgan, and Darcy’s deaf butler Tracy. I loved both of them very much. Mrs Morgan is definitely not shy of telling the truth, even if it’s uncomfortable. And her assessment of people is always correct. I love how she measures Darcy and Elizabeth right and secretly helps them avoid mistakes or guides them to do the right thing.
Darcy’s butler Tracy has one very memorable scene in resolving a situation. One had not thought he had it in him but he is brilliant. And I think everyone involved in the situation agrees that it is a lucky thing that he is still in Darcy’s employ. But you need to read for yourselves.
If a story starts in Ramsgate one can be sure that Wickham and Mrs Young are a part of it. They try indeed to make Georgiana elope with Wickham, but they are not done with it after the elopement is prevented. Therefore they try to take revenge on Darcy for “stealing” them the right to Georgiana’s dowry. Fortunately all their planes of revenge and all the actions they take are in the end not successful.
By the way, I love the scene when they are finally caught. Full of action, but also witty and deeply satisfying.
If you like to know how Darcy and Elizabeth will cope with the situation when a scandal in Ramsgate forces them to wed, you should definitely read this excellent variation.
I highly recommend it.
May 25, 2026
Wonderful
Elizabeth, recovering from an illness, is in Ramsgate where she meets Georgiana Darcy. Elizabeth detects trouble in Georgiana's demeanor, contacts Darcy, and ends up embroiled in a scandal with no choice but to marry him, a complete stranger. She and Darcy set some ground rules for their future relationship, and quickly find much to admire in each other, but also much that will challenge them. Unfortunately Wickham and Mrs Younge, the source of their troubles in Ramsgate, aren't done with them, planning further schemes to try and extort money, and to try and ruin their reputations.
I like this author, and this book is exactly why. The plot is serious, but the story is infused with witty banter, humor, and loads of romance. Darcy is swoon worthy throughout, and Elizabeth is spectacular. The absence of the Bennett family dysfunction, the Bingley sisters' vicious sniping, Mr Collins' idiocy, and Lady Catherine's pomposity is refreshing and welcome. The book is very well written and well edited. The story is thoroughly enjoyable. I recommend it highly.
Elizabeth, recovering from an illness, is in Ramsgate where she meets Georgiana Darcy. Elizabeth detects trouble in Georgiana's demeanor, contacts Darcy, and ends up embroiled in a scandal with no choice but to marry him, a complete stranger. She and Darcy set some ground rules for their future relationship, and quickly find much to admire in each other, but also much that will challenge them. Unfortunately Wickham and Mrs Younge, the source of their troubles in Ramsgate, aren't done with them, planning further schemes to try and extort money, and to try and ruin their reputations.
I like this author, and this book is exactly why. The plot is serious, but the story is infused with witty banter, humor, and loads of romance. Darcy is swoon worthy throughout, and Elizabeth is spectacular. The absence of the Bennett family dysfunction, the Bingley sisters' vicious sniping, Mr Collins' idiocy, and Lady Catherine's pomposity is refreshing and welcome. The book is very well written and well edited. The story is thoroughly enjoyable. I recommend it highly.
May 22, 2026
Two people seemingly opposite to the other
I enjoyed the story because there were very few arguments while they are working thing out. New character, Mr Tracy, the Butler of Darcy House. Very ingesting. I wish he was in more stories. Good read.
I enjoyed the story because there were very few arguments while they are working thing out. New character, Mr Tracy, the Butler of Darcy House. Very ingesting. I wish he was in more stories. Good read.
May 16, 2026
I loved this book .
May 19, 2026
An absolutely delightful story
Another absolutely delightful variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by the talented author Melanie Rachel. I enjoyed it very much.
Another absolutely delightful variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by the talented author Melanie Rachel. I enjoyed it very much.
May 26, 2026
Tears 3x! This book was carefully paced and realistic for an FMS tale. Ms. Rachel took advantage of some nuances in canon personalities and expounded upon them for the mature E&D. Excellent plot twists. Highly recommended for its compelling interactions between the hero and heroine.
May 17, 2026
Fantastic
This book was excellent. I loved Darcy & Elizabeth's relationship & how it developed. I adored Franks & Tracy. I also thoroughly enjoyed this well developed story with no overhearing or ridiculous misunderstanding functioning as a main plot device.
This book was excellent. I loved Darcy & Elizabeth's relationship & how it developed. I adored Franks & Tracy. I also thoroughly enjoyed this well developed story with no overhearing or ridiculous misunderstanding functioning as a main plot device.
May 24, 2026
Absolutely Delightful
There are so many great aspects of this book. I took my time reading it even though I really wanted to devour it in a day.
I enjoyed Elizabeth's personality. She was stubborn but not whiny about it. She was brilliant but not overly self reliant. She made concessions where she needed to make them.
And her humor was perfect. She could make our serious Darcy smile and laugh.
I mean demanding your husband let's you have a cock-a-too just to make sure he is paying attention. Perfect. And him even more so because he added back the humor.
Darcy was sweet, kind, loving and most importantly repentant when he messed up.
His humbling himself when he realized his errors was what every wife wishes their husband would do. And knowing he fell first. He just didn't put the dots together. Of course that is what Fitz is for. Colonel is supposed to be intelligent, but he had moments where he was quite the dunderhead. Thankfully he helped when and where he was needed.
Oh and slight spoiler...
The ending with the farewell... thank you for making my allergies act up, Ms Rachel.
It was altogether a great book. I am adding this to my favorites.
There are so many great aspects of this book. I took my time reading it even though I really wanted to devour it in a day.
I enjoyed Elizabeth's personality. She was stubborn but not whiny about it. She was brilliant but not overly self reliant. She made concessions where she needed to make them.
And her humor was perfect. She could make our serious Darcy smile and laugh.
I mean demanding your husband let's you have a cock-a-too just to make sure he is paying attention. Perfect. And him even more so because he added back the humor.
Darcy was sweet, kind, loving and most importantly repentant when he messed up.
His humbling himself when he realized his errors was what every wife wishes their husband would do. And knowing he fell first. He just didn't put the dots together. Of course that is what Fitz is for. Colonel is supposed to be intelligent, but he had moments where he was quite the dunderhead. Thankfully he helped when and where he was needed.
Oh and slight spoiler...
The ending with the farewell... thank you for making my allergies act up, Ms Rachel.
It was altogether a great book. I am adding this to my favorites.
May 16, 2026
Very satisfying read
No need to be familiar with original P&P. Characters are the same with some great additions, but events are very altered. I always read this author. Love how she develops characters. She doesn't tell you Elizabeth is witty, she makes her witty. So creative. My favorite P&P genre is continuations ( how does Elizabeth adapt to her new/larger responsibilities? How do 2 independent people form a partnership ?) but in the absence I appreciate a good forced marriage . Always like truly experiencing the Regency era including the below stairs characters . This tale wouldn't make it without them. This story had very little of the rest of the Bennet's, much to Darcy's shame. Didn't miss LCDB or Caroline .
No need to be familiar with original P&P. Characters are the same with some great additions, but events are very altered. I always read this author. Love how she develops characters. She doesn't tell you Elizabeth is witty, she makes her witty. So creative. My favorite P&P genre is continuations ( how does Elizabeth adapt to her new/larger responsibilities? How do 2 independent people form a partnership ?) but in the absence I appreciate a good forced marriage . Always like truly experiencing the Regency era including the below stairs characters . This tale wouldn't make it without them. This story had very little of the rest of the Bennet's, much to Darcy's shame. Didn't miss LCDB or Caroline .
May 19, 2026
I really enjoyed that they started with a marriage of convenience but having just met they were both on the same page and it wasn't that Darcy was already in love with her and she just married him because she had to.
Georgiana and Fitzwilliam had quite prominant roles and they plot with Wickham was interesting and made for good drama.
But the best part was the relationship between E&D. They both had flaws, recognised them and worked on them. The way they fell in love was well paced and the chemistry was great.
I really love Melanie Rachels variations. they really work for me.
Georgiana and Fitzwilliam had quite prominant roles and they plot with Wickham was interesting and made for good drama.
But the best part was the relationship between E&D. They both had flaws, recognised them and worked on them. The way they fell in love was well paced and the chemistry was great.
I really love Melanie Rachels variations. they really work for me.
May 20, 2026
Absolutely wonderful
All of Melanie Rachel's books are good, but she out did herself with this one. Believable plot, well drawn characters, and great dialogue! My only quibble is calling it a Rom Com - it is a thoughtful romance between two well meaning people.
All of Melanie Rachel's books are good, but she out did herself with this one. Believable plot, well drawn characters, and great dialogue! My only quibble is calling it a Rom Com - it is a thoughtful romance between two well meaning people.
May 16, 2026
Cute
This was a cute story focusing tightly on Darcy and Lizzy after their speedy engagement and marriage following bungled events at Ramsgate and the continued scheming from Whickham and Mrs. Younge. We don’t really see the Bennets, Bingleys, or Gardiners at all and I feel like that muted Lizzy’s character. No Matlocks or Lady Catherine either. We also don’t see as much of Lizzy’s inner thoughts, while we do see quite a bit of Darcy’s. Other characters we do see kind of fall flat as well. Not a bad story at all, but I feel like it was missing romance, depth, and a certain sparkle. I would recommend reading, but I doubt this will be one to return to.
This was a cute story focusing tightly on Darcy and Lizzy after their speedy engagement and marriage following bungled events at Ramsgate and the continued scheming from Whickham and Mrs. Younge. We don’t really see the Bennets, Bingleys, or Gardiners at all and I feel like that muted Lizzy’s character. No Matlocks or Lady Catherine either. We also don’t see as much of Lizzy’s inner thoughts, while we do see quite a bit of Darcy’s. Other characters we do see kind of fall flat as well. Not a bad story at all, but I feel like it was missing romance, depth, and a certain sparkle. I would recommend reading, but I doubt this will be one to return to.
May 18, 2026
One of the best!!
This variation was FANTASTIC! I very much enjoyed ODC and their interactions as the story unfolded. I feel like this was the BEST representation I’ve ever read. Darcy was almost on the spectrum and Elizabeth was the perfect personality to bring him out of those tendencies. It was so touching at times and romantic that I wanted the story to go on and on. This author is one of my favorites and I feel her ODC development in this book was her best. Thank you!
This variation was FANTASTIC! I very much enjoyed ODC and their interactions as the story unfolded. I feel like this was the BEST representation I’ve ever read. Darcy was almost on the spectrum and Elizabeth was the perfect personality to bring him out of those tendencies. It was so touching at times and romantic that I wanted the story to go on and on. This author is one of my favorites and I feel her ODC development in this book was her best. Thank you!
May 16, 2026
That poor, tongue-tied man!
After more than thirty years of marriage to a man likely as compliment-challenged as Fitzwilliam Darcy in this story, I can only say, thank you for writing him so well.
I loved this book.
After more than thirty years of marriage to a man likely as compliment-challenged as Fitzwilliam Darcy in this story, I can only say, thank you for writing him so well.
I loved this book.
May 14, 2026
The Marriage Trap by Melanie Rachel is the sixth installation of her Rom Com series, and it totally lives up to the romance and laughter of the earlier books in this series. Opening in Ramsgate, where Elizabeth is recuperating from a severe illness, we quickly learn that Lizzy is just as kind-hearted and loyal as we have always known her to be. She and her companion, Mrs. Morgan, befriend a lonely and isolated Georgiana Darcy, and a friendship forms between these young women from two different worlds. Realizing that Georgiana may be in danger, she breaks with propriety and writes to the young lady’s brother, sharing her concerns. Her act of altruism saves Georgiana, but earns her the enmity of two relentless foes who will seem to stop at nothing to punish her and Mr. Darcy for her kindness and bravery. A staged compromise leads to a forced wedding, and we follow the actions of our heroes as they learn to build a life with a complete stranger, while trying to outwit the villains’ ongoing attacks.
What I loved about the story:
Darcy’s sense of humor: A little huff of breath escaped her. “Was that a joke, Mr. Darcy?” “I believe it was,” he said, suppressing a smile. “I assure you I am as surprised as you are.”
Franks, Darcy’s valet, and Tracy, the butler, are both wonderful characters and had me laughing out loud.
Elizabeth is simply lovely in this story – kind, brave and fearless.
As always, Melanie brings the characters to life with sparkling dialogue, weaving the scenes together in a way that builds the tension at the perfect pace while also allowing us to see the deepening of Elizabeth and Darcy’s love for each other.
I highly recommend this newest addition to the Rom Com series. Curl up with a cup of tea, or a glass of wine, and spend some time with our favorite couple again!
(I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.)
What I loved about the story:
Darcy’s sense of humor: A little huff of breath escaped her. “Was that a joke, Mr. Darcy?” “I believe it was,” he said, suppressing a smile. “I assure you I am as surprised as you are.”
Franks, Darcy’s valet, and Tracy, the butler, are both wonderful characters and had me laughing out loud.
Elizabeth is simply lovely in this story – kind, brave and fearless.
As always, Melanie brings the characters to life with sparkling dialogue, weaving the scenes together in a way that builds the tension at the perfect pace while also allowing us to see the deepening of Elizabeth and Darcy’s love for each other.
I highly recommend this newest addition to the Rom Com series. Curl up with a cup of tea, or a glass of wine, and spend some time with our favorite couple again!
(I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.)
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars
As the title indicates this is a pride and prejudice variation with forced marriage situation.
The story starts in Ramsgate, where Elizabeth is recuperating together with her companion Mrs Morgan (A army wife/widow). Of course she meets Georgiana and befriends her. She can’t really put her finger on what is wrong with Georgiana, she seems very nervous and her companion Mrs Younge is quite severe and Georgiana seems intimidated by her. Georgiana tells her about her dear elder brother, that is going to visit any day, but never arrives. So when Georgiana gives Elizabeth her London address, so they can keep in touch in case she has to leave suddenly. Then Elizabeth writes a carefully crafted letter to warn Mr Darcy, who of course arrives and prevent the elopement with George Wickham. As a revenge Wickham and Mrs Younge arranges a compromise between Elizabeth and Mr Darcy. So they marry quickly by common license, though they are seen out and about in strategic places in Ramsgate before the wedding to try to quell any rumors.
Plus they have a short honeymoon in Margate before they move to London with Georgiana. Obviously their ordeal isn’t over yet, but I will not reveal more.
This is a slow burn romance, that is beautiful written. It caught a hold of me very quickly and I finished it in a few days. I heartily recommend the story.
I received a free copy and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
As the title indicates this is a pride and prejudice variation with forced marriage situation.
The story starts in Ramsgate, where Elizabeth is recuperating together with her companion Mrs Morgan (A army wife/widow). Of course she meets Georgiana and befriends her. She can’t really put her finger on what is wrong with Georgiana, she seems very nervous and her companion Mrs Younge is quite severe and Georgiana seems intimidated by her. Georgiana tells her about her dear elder brother, that is going to visit any day, but never arrives. So when Georgiana gives Elizabeth her London address, so they can keep in touch in case she has to leave suddenly. Then Elizabeth writes a carefully crafted letter to warn Mr Darcy, who of course arrives and prevent the elopement with George Wickham. As a revenge Wickham and Mrs Younge arranges a compromise between Elizabeth and Mr Darcy. So they marry quickly by common license, though they are seen out and about in strategic places in Ramsgate before the wedding to try to quell any rumors.
Plus they have a short honeymoon in Margate before they move to London with Georgiana. Obviously their ordeal isn’t over yet, but I will not reveal more.
This is a slow burn romance, that is beautiful written. It caught a hold of me very quickly and I finished it in a few days. I heartily recommend the story.
I received a free copy and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Marriage Trap by Melanie Rachel is a fresh and entertaining take on the forced marriage scenario (“FMS”) trope that is engaging and humorous.
When the story begins, Elizabeth is in Ramsgate for her health when she befriends Georgiana Darcy. Elizabeth is concerned about Georgiana and sends a letter to Georgiana’s brother, who Elizabeth has never met. Darcy arrives, setting off a chain of events that ultimately leads to their unexpected marriage. Unlike a lot of books with this trope, there is not a lot of anger and angst between Elizabeth and Darcy. Instead the book focuses on their relationship.
I enjoyed seeing how Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love. The “rules” added a fun and thoughtful element to their relationship. As is typical of this author’s books, this story is filled with humor and heart. I found myself completely immersed in this story, and I found the unique epilogue satisfying.
I highly recommend this variation to anyone looking for a lighter, character-driven FMS variation. Melanie Rachel remains on my “must read” list.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
When the story begins, Elizabeth is in Ramsgate for her health when she befriends Georgiana Darcy. Elizabeth is concerned about Georgiana and sends a letter to Georgiana’s brother, who Elizabeth has never met. Darcy arrives, setting off a chain of events that ultimately leads to their unexpected marriage. Unlike a lot of books with this trope, there is not a lot of anger and angst between Elizabeth and Darcy. Instead the book focuses on their relationship.
I enjoyed seeing how Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love. The “rules” added a fun and thoughtful element to their relationship. As is typical of this author’s books, this story is filled with humor and heart. I found myself completely immersed in this story, and I found the unique epilogue satisfying.
I highly recommend this variation to anyone looking for a lighter, character-driven FMS variation. Melanie Rachel remains on my “must read” list.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
May 15, 2026
I’m doing something a little different with this review. I’m sharing the thoughts I sent to Ms. Rachel right after finishing my advanced reader copy—because honestly, they still say it best.
The Summary:
I absolutely loved this story. It had me laughing often just like a rom-com is supposed to. Adored Mrs Morgan, Tracy and Franks. The story feels complete. No lose ends that will drive me nuts. Thank you for the epilogue. I liked this version of both Darcy and Elizabeth.
My Comments:
You already have my chuckling with the exchange between Elizabeth and Mrs. Morgan
I am adoring all these characters except Mrs Younge.
Laugh out loud except my husband was sleeping next to me.
5 stars. So Darcy and so sweet for this version of him. [My reaction to something Darcy says near the end, but I won't say what is was and ruin the moment for you]
There are more “ha!” moments, more “explain to my husband why I’m giggling” moments, and at least one “nearly choke on my popcorn” moment. But to explain them would give away too much of this wonderfully written story. You’ll just have to discover them yourself when you read The Marriage Trap.
The Summary:
I absolutely loved this story. It had me laughing often just like a rom-com is supposed to. Adored Mrs Morgan, Tracy and Franks. The story feels complete. No lose ends that will drive me nuts. Thank you for the epilogue. I liked this version of both Darcy and Elizabeth.
My Comments:
You already have my chuckling with the exchange between Elizabeth and Mrs. Morgan
I am adoring all these characters except Mrs Younge.
Laugh out loud except my husband was sleeping next to me.
5 stars. So Darcy and so sweet for this version of him. [My reaction to something Darcy says near the end, but I won't say what is was and ruin the moment for you]
There are more “ha!” moments, more “explain to my husband why I’m giggling” moments, and at least one “nearly choke on my popcorn” moment. But to explain them would give away too much of this wonderfully written story. You’ll just have to discover them yourself when you read The Marriage Trap.
June 2, 2026
Another winner for this author! A few other reviews describe the book, so I will not. I love how she weaves all the things together. This Darcy is hilariously unable to give a compliment, and this Elizabeth is much more mature than many we have seen. Elizabeth is staying with a Mrs. Morgan in Ramsgate; she is there to recover from a terrible illness. Mrs. Morgan is a wonderful character; she tells it like it is and is extremely perceptive.
Georgiana is saved, but Wickham and Mrs Young are not finished - they stage a compromise of Elizabeth and Darcy, so they decide they must marry. In spite of all the difficulties of being forced to marry when they hardly know each other, they manage expectations very well. The seemingly-deaf butler Tracy at their home in London was a great addition, too. I love the humor that this author infuses; I laughed out loud or at least giggled on several occasions. It was very romantic the way they finally came to love each other.
I highly recommend this book!
Georgiana is saved, but Wickham and Mrs Young are not finished - they stage a compromise of Elizabeth and Darcy, so they decide they must marry. In spite of all the difficulties of being forced to marry when they hardly know each other, they manage expectations very well. The seemingly-deaf butler Tracy at their home in London was a great addition, too. I love the humor that this author infuses; I laughed out loud or at least giggled on several occasions. It was very romantic the way they finally came to love each other.
I highly recommend this book!
Review of advance copy
Finally a FMS story I can get behind.
Ms Rachel never disappoints. She takes this trope, one that I find gives me ulcers, and puts her own rom-com flair on it.
Elizabeth, recuperating in Ramsgate from a serious illness, smells something fishy regarding Miss Georgiana Darcy. Her next step puts a target on her back which leads to the quick marriage between our dear couple. But the story only starts there...
Our dear couple are both mature and carry the responsibilities of their family's dynamics. I appreciated the scene with Bennet and Elizabeth. Our dear girl deserved that apology!
Slow burn, suspense and intrigue and witty banter. While this trope tends toward angst and heartache, in this story I found entertainment and the signature writing style of one of my favorite authors.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my review.
Ms Rachel never disappoints. She takes this trope, one that I find gives me ulcers, and puts her own rom-com flair on it.
Elizabeth, recuperating in Ramsgate from a serious illness, smells something fishy regarding Miss Georgiana Darcy. Her next step puts a target on her back which leads to the quick marriage between our dear couple. But the story only starts there...
Our dear couple are both mature and carry the responsibilities of their family's dynamics. I appreciated the scene with Bennet and Elizabeth. Our dear girl deserved that apology!
Slow burn, suspense and intrigue and witty banter. While this trope tends toward angst and heartache, in this story I found entertainment and the signature writing style of one of my favorite authors.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my review.
May 14, 2026
What a wonderful book! Many of the elements of Pride and Prejudice were maintained, all while writing a completely new story. I loved Elizabeth’s self possession and spunk as well as Darcy’s shy reticence! It was the perfect opposites attract classic retelling, and I was emotionally involved throughout the whole book. There was also some wonderfully droll humor in spots that made me chuckle and grin! I received an ARC copy and this is my review.
May 16, 2026
Melanie Rachel has outdone herself. A clever plot. Dialogue that is flawless and so real. Darcy and Elizabeth in nearly every page gently, intelligently, respectfully falling in love in the best possible way.
Every character, new ones and the ones we all know and love, has a significant role. Each of them is well developed and each has something significant to contribute.
This story is wonderful from the very beginning to the very end.
Every character, new ones and the ones we all know and love, has a significant role. Each of them is well developed and each has something significant to contribute.
This story is wonderful from the very beginning to the very end.
May 17, 2026
Although this is part of Melanie Rachel's Rom Com Collection, it didn't come across to me as a comedy. It's a sensitively written story of two people forced into marriage because of a maliciously orchestrated compromise. It's the gentle and believable evolution of learning who the other person is, while trying to contain the scandal that could damage the lives of both families. Beautifully done.
May 24, 2026
Okay
I normally enjoy Rachel's works. However, this one didn't work for me.
What I liked:
- Elizabeth's character
- Darcy and Elizabeth's communication before the marriage and shortly after the wedding.
What I didn't like:
- Darcy was strange.
- I didn't pick up on the chemistry between Elizabeth and Darcy, and the interruptions were predictable.
- The story tended to drag.
I normally enjoy Rachel's works. However, this one didn't work for me.
What I liked:
- Elizabeth's character
- Darcy and Elizabeth's communication before the marriage and shortly after the wedding.
What I didn't like:
- Darcy was strange.
- I didn't pick up on the chemistry between Elizabeth and Darcy, and the interruptions were predictable.
- The story tended to drag.
May 28, 2026
I enjoyed the communication between Darcy and Elizabeth, and there are some beautifully sweet moments. My favourite quote
"He had not understood, until his marriage taught him better, how much felicity might consist in smaller things— a look across a room, a shared book, a murmured remark meant for him alone, sitting beside his wife while she recognised a Haydn quartet before he did, and feeling that this was exactly where he was meant to be."
Such a wonderful quiet description of love.
"He had not understood, until his marriage taught him better, how much felicity might consist in smaller things— a look across a room, a shared book, a murmured remark meant for him alone, sitting beside his wife while she recognised a Haydn quartet before he did, and feeling that this was exactly where he was meant to be."
Such a wonderful quiet description of love.
May 15, 2026
Delightful forced marriage scenario
In a thoughtful exploration of a what-if-in-Ramsgate situation, both Darcy and Elizabeth, despite their very different stations and characters, and setbacks related to their intrinsic personalities, persevere in slowly learning to know each other, helping Georgiana recover, thwarting Wickham and Mrs. Younge, and achieving a well-deserved HEA.
In a thoughtful exploration of a what-if-in-Ramsgate situation, both Darcy and Elizabeth, despite their very different stations and characters, and setbacks related to their intrinsic personalities, persevere in slowly learning to know each other, helping Georgiana recover, thwarting Wickham and Mrs. Younge, and achieving a well-deserved HEA.
May 15, 2026
As perfect as mere mortals can achieve!
The *longing* was beautifully executed. And a FMS where they communicate and resolve their differences like adults rather than petulant children?? Excellent.
The *longing* was beautifully executed. And a FMS where they communicate and resolve their differences like adults rather than petulant children?? Excellent.
May 15, 2026
Usually I don’t like the compromised stories. I really appreciate a forced marriage story that doesn’t have anger and bitterness. E and D are both trying to make the best of an unfortunate situation. Well written.
May 16, 2026
The Marriage Trap is a very good book, engaging and very well written, with a couple of good and endearing original characters. The bonus epilogue is well worth a read. This is undoubtedly one of the best books of Melanie Rachel. Highly recommended.
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