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Darcy's Tale #2
Darcy's Tale, Volume II: Into Kent
When Fitzwilliam Darcy returned from Hertfordshire, he did so with every intention of leaving the memory of the lovely and beguiling Miss Elizabeth Bennet behind. Yet, he was unable to do so, even though, as one of London’s most eligible bachelors, the ladies of his circle were certainly willing to help him recover: Miss Bingley, sister of his best friend, Mr. Charles Bingley; the beautiful, popular, and charming Miss Chesterton; and the singular and enormously wealth Miss Hartsbury, are all willing to claim his heart for their own. But until Darcy encounters Miss Bennet by chance in Kent, his heart still remains his own.
This lovingly crafted companion to Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice will give her fans a feeling of homecoming, and a chance to see this beloved story from a new perspective, all the while immersed in the endearing world of Regency England Austen so masterfully created. Darcy’s Tale was written first for the readers who were enchanted by the original and wanted the chance to return, to learn more about one of the most popular characters in English literature. But it is also for those new to the Pride & Prejudice saga: Darcy was a wealthy, well-intentioned, intelligent, and educated man; how on Earth did he become so thoroughly tangled by his acquaintance with Miss Elizabeth Bennet? She, too, is among that rarefied firmament of favourite English characters: her pert manners, quick wit, and quiet beauty made her a strong, independent figure of a woman who was over a hundred years ahead of her time. The clash of their personalities and the nearly constant misunderstanding between them, founded on an unfortunate first impression, has delighted readers for two hundred years.
This, then, is a new view of their first year as seen through Darcy’s eyes, and written by a man who insisted both that Darcy should be true to Austen’s vision of him, and that he should be a man throughout: wrong, perhaps at times, but always prepared to stand up and do what he saw as necessary and right, especially when he found himself to be in the wrong.
Darcy’s Tale is written in the richly textured style of Regency English, and even the most demanding Austen fan will find little here to cavil with—but they will certainly find many new thoughts, perceptions, and interpretations to revel in.
Volume 1 takes Darcy to Hertfordshire and the beginnings of his relationship with Elizabeth. In Volume 2: Into Kent, the two meet again at Rosings, the estate of Darcy’s Aunt Catherine. In Volume 3: Back Home, Darcy’s many trials and labours are concluded, and he finds his true place in life, at last.
This lovingly crafted companion to Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice will give her fans a feeling of homecoming, and a chance to see this beloved story from a new perspective, all the while immersed in the endearing world of Regency England Austen so masterfully created. Darcy’s Tale was written first for the readers who were enchanted by the original and wanted the chance to return, to learn more about one of the most popular characters in English literature. But it is also for those new to the Pride & Prejudice saga: Darcy was a wealthy, well-intentioned, intelligent, and educated man; how on Earth did he become so thoroughly tangled by his acquaintance with Miss Elizabeth Bennet? She, too, is among that rarefied firmament of favourite English characters: her pert manners, quick wit, and quiet beauty made her a strong, independent figure of a woman who was over a hundred years ahead of her time. The clash of their personalities and the nearly constant misunderstanding between them, founded on an unfortunate first impression, has delighted readers for two hundred years.
This, then, is a new view of their first year as seen through Darcy’s eyes, and written by a man who insisted both that Darcy should be true to Austen’s vision of him, and that he should be a man throughout: wrong, perhaps at times, but always prepared to stand up and do what he saw as necessary and right, especially when he found himself to be in the wrong.
Darcy’s Tale is written in the richly textured style of Regency English, and even the most demanding Austen fan will find little here to cavil with—but they will certainly find many new thoughts, perceptions, and interpretations to revel in.
Volume 1 takes Darcy to Hertfordshire and the beginnings of his relationship with Elizabeth. In Volume 2: Into Kent, the two meet again at Rosings, the estate of Darcy’s Aunt Catherine. In Volume 3: Back Home, Darcy’s many trials and labours are concluded, and he finds his true place in life, at last.
292 pages, Paperback
First published December 19, 2013
29 people are currently reading
405 people want to read
About the author
Stanley Michael Hurd
6 books72 followersStan Hurd is a Ph.D. neurochemist who currently occupies himself writing, teaching fencing and Karate, and polishing samurai sword blades. He was introduced to Jane Austen's works late in life, but became immediately captivated by the unlabored beauty of her prose. Having read one of the many adaptations written to extend the story of "Pride and Prejudice", while he was delighted to be back in that world, he found the exclusively female perspective of the author was at times intrusive; since he could not let himself complain if he did not attempt it himself, he set out to write "Darcy's Tale".
Many of his friends are amazed that he should be writing a Regency romance; he takes a particular delight in that fact.
Many of his friends are amazed that he should be writing a Regency romance; he takes a particular delight in that fact.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
February 18, 2015
When I read the first volume of this three-volume retelling of Pride and Prejudice from Darcy’s point of view, my one cavil was that Darcy was not situated in his wider cultural context as much as I thought a man of his standing would be. Well, I should’ve read the second volume, Into Kent, first! Two-thirds of this volume is taken up with Darcy’s life in London, complete with estate business, ton parties, some light philosophical debate, and a little politics—as well as a good dose of life with his extended family. So much for that objection!
In this book the author is really hitting his stride, employing a surer touch with descriptive writing and dialogue. This is undoubtedly the best imitation of Georgian/Regency prose I have read in any Austenesque novel; Hurd has a very true ear for the rhythms and word choices of this most delightful of iterations of the English language. The slips are extraordinarily rare (at least in the second edition, which is what I am reading). I am especially impressed with the tone and style of the letters collected at the end of the volume, which should not be overlooked by those eager to get to the third volume.
As far as the characters go, Hurd is very true to the originals—even Bingley, whom many people misunderstand. (Perhaps the fault lies in the filmed adaptations of Pride and Prejudice, which always seem to portray him as one degree or another of dolt.) Darcy’s motivations and reasonings follow the action very believably, though at times they go ’round and ’round a little too long; we can understand that he is going over and over the same ideas for several months without necessarily experiencing it with him.
When it comes to the research, I did have a few quibbles. (1) I doubt that a gentleman would take his valet along with him in the carriage when going to an evening party. This is done so that the valet can hear things about another character that will be valuable for Darcy to know; but I believe a valet would hear such gossip at one of the clubs/societies that existed for domestic servants. (2) One character, a Miss Hartsbury, appears to own her own house; this does not seem at all likely, or that she would entertain mixed parties of ladies and gentlemen if she did. (Also, I’d like to see her more vividly introduced earlier.) (3) As far as I have read, coffee houses were for men only, and were places where they read newspapers and discussed business. So the coffee house scene in which Darcy overhears a female character talking about him seems very unlikely. It could have been set, perhaps, at Vauxhall or some other public place where he could overhear a conversation while walking around unseen. There were a couple of other minor points, but they did not materially detract from my enjoyment.
One minor misuse of words did bother me: demur is a verb meaning “to hesitate” or “to object”; demure is “shy” or “modest.”
Despite these minor issues, I am finding this three-volume novel the most satisfying Austenesque experience I have had to date (with apologies to Pamela Aidan, my previous fave; perhaps I should say I love and enjoy them both for their different takes on the world from Darcy’s point of view).
In this book the author is really hitting his stride, employing a surer touch with descriptive writing and dialogue. This is undoubtedly the best imitation of Georgian/Regency prose I have read in any Austenesque novel; Hurd has a very true ear for the rhythms and word choices of this most delightful of iterations of the English language. The slips are extraordinarily rare (at least in the second edition, which is what I am reading). I am especially impressed with the tone and style of the letters collected at the end of the volume, which should not be overlooked by those eager to get to the third volume.
As far as the characters go, Hurd is very true to the originals—even Bingley, whom many people misunderstand. (Perhaps the fault lies in the filmed adaptations of Pride and Prejudice, which always seem to portray him as one degree or another of dolt.) Darcy’s motivations and reasonings follow the action very believably, though at times they go ’round and ’round a little too long; we can understand that he is going over and over the same ideas for several months without necessarily experiencing it with him.
When it comes to the research, I did have a few quibbles. (1) I doubt that a gentleman would take his valet along with him in the carriage when going to an evening party. This is done so that the valet can hear things about another character that will be valuable for Darcy to know; but I believe a valet would hear such gossip at one of the clubs/societies that existed for domestic servants. (2) One character, a Miss Hartsbury, appears to own her own house; this does not seem at all likely, or that she would entertain mixed parties of ladies and gentlemen if she did. (Also, I’d like to see her more vividly introduced earlier.) (3) As far as I have read, coffee houses were for men only, and were places where they read newspapers and discussed business. So the coffee house scene in which Darcy overhears a female character talking about him seems very unlikely. It could have been set, perhaps, at Vauxhall or some other public place where he could overhear a conversation while walking around unseen. There were a couple of other minor points, but they did not materially detract from my enjoyment.
One minor misuse of words did bother me: demur is a verb meaning “to hesitate” or “to object”; demure is “shy” or “modest.”
Despite these minor issues, I am finding this three-volume novel the most satisfying Austenesque experience I have had to date (with apologies to Pamela Aidan, my previous fave; perhaps I should say I love and enjoy them both for their different takes on the world from Darcy’s point of view).
December 19, 2017
Actually - 6 stars from me
I read both Volumes twice. I also read all the reviews here. I will not regurgitate the story line as many others have stated such. It basically follows canon but then, in this second volume Mr. Hurd fills in all the missing time from Darcy's viewpoint between when Darcy leaves Meryton/Longbourn and then travels to Hunsford/Rosings. I truly loved all the missing pieces and found that they added so much to my understanding of Darcy...especially, in his experiences with the ladies of the ton. All the feelings and his "standards" that Darcy fights through, his consultations with his Mentor, with Col. Fitzwilliam, comments to his sister, etc. allow me to delve into a very intelligent gentleman's struggles with a life changing decision. His thoughts and actions and even periods of silence while at Rosings and while visiting the parsonage, gave me insight, as JA never did in her version, as to how Darcy might have undergone such delusions about Elizabeth's true feelings and understanding. I look forward to Volume III.
I read both Volumes twice. I also read all the reviews here. I will not regurgitate the story line as many others have stated such. It basically follows canon but then, in this second volume Mr. Hurd fills in all the missing time from Darcy's viewpoint between when Darcy leaves Meryton/Longbourn and then travels to Hunsford/Rosings. I truly loved all the missing pieces and found that they added so much to my understanding of Darcy...especially, in his experiences with the ladies of the ton. All the feelings and his "standards" that Darcy fights through, his consultations with his Mentor, with Col. Fitzwilliam, comments to his sister, etc. allow me to delve into a very intelligent gentleman's struggles with a life changing decision. His thoughts and actions and even periods of silence while at Rosings and while visiting the parsonage, gave me insight, as JA never did in her version, as to how Darcy might have undergone such delusions about Elizabeth's true feelings and understanding. I look forward to Volume III.
April 5, 2014
(Note: Potential readers should be made aware that this is the second volume in the Darcy’s Tale series, and that it will be necessary to read Volume I prior to reading this one.)
For those of you who are not yet familiar with this series, Darcy's Tale is a trilogy that retells the story of Pride and Prejudice from Mr. Darcy's perspective. Volume II picks up with Darcy arriving in London and undertaking the difficult tasks of persuading Mr. Bingley of Jane Bennet's disinterest, as well as commanding his own heart and mind to dwell on other things than Elizabeth Bennet! Similar to his first novel in this series, Stanley Hurd takes us into Darcy's head, exposes his reflections, and shares his inner thoughts.
As with Darcy's Tale, Volume I: Into Hertfordshire, what I loved most about reading this novel was the sense of truly being inside Darcy's head! So much is explained, so much is understood... The scenes where Stanley Hurd truly shines in this novel are where he illustrates how Darcy misinterprets Elizabeth. I've always wondered how Darcy could be so convinced that Elizabeth was anticipating and welcoming his proposal when she is barely civil to him. Was it arrogance and conceit? Mr. Hurd does a remarkable job of showing how Darcy misunderstood all Elizabeth's smiles and blushes, how he thought their discussions had subtextual implications, how he read too much into her open conversation and candor. (Yes, Darcy dear, it does seem that Elizabeth reserves her playful teasing for you alone...but it's not what you think!)
I cannot help but find Mr. Hurd's Darcy to be everything that is admirable and adorable! He is essentially the honorable and loyal hero we know and love at the end of Pride and Prejudice, but instead of being arrogant and officious, he is portrayed as reserved and a little lacking in social graces. When it comes to women, especially, we see how Darcy is inexperienced and awkward. Why does he not engage Elizabeth more in conversation? Does he see through Caroline's machinations? Why did he propose so badly? Even though Darcy has spent nine seasons in London society, he hasn't learned enough to keep him out of trouble...
I greatly enjoyed the continuation of Darcy's intensive retrospection in this novel. He is in pursuit of logic and truth, and steadfastly tries to align the desires of his heart with his sense of duty and obligation. I loved seeing Darcy question society's rules and practices, and I enjoyed watching him go to Georgiana, Colonel Fitzwilliam, his uncle, and even a former tutor to debate and question matters of the heart, matrimony, and society. He is a man desperately seeking some enlightenment!
Before I close, I must add how exquisitely poignant it was to see the proposal, letter, and aftermath from Darcy's perspective! What a powerful and palpable impression of heartache and anguish! Beautifully and evocatively rendered, Mr. Hurd! Well done! I'm all anticipation for Darcy's Tale, Volume III: The Way Home!
Austenesque Reviews
For those of you who are not yet familiar with this series, Darcy's Tale is a trilogy that retells the story of Pride and Prejudice from Mr. Darcy's perspective. Volume II picks up with Darcy arriving in London and undertaking the difficult tasks of persuading Mr. Bingley of Jane Bennet's disinterest, as well as commanding his own heart and mind to dwell on other things than Elizabeth Bennet! Similar to his first novel in this series, Stanley Hurd takes us into Darcy's head, exposes his reflections, and shares his inner thoughts.
As with Darcy's Tale, Volume I: Into Hertfordshire, what I loved most about reading this novel was the sense of truly being inside Darcy's head! So much is explained, so much is understood... The scenes where Stanley Hurd truly shines in this novel are where he illustrates how Darcy misinterprets Elizabeth. I've always wondered how Darcy could be so convinced that Elizabeth was anticipating and welcoming his proposal when she is barely civil to him. Was it arrogance and conceit? Mr. Hurd does a remarkable job of showing how Darcy misunderstood all Elizabeth's smiles and blushes, how he thought their discussions had subtextual implications, how he read too much into her open conversation and candor. (Yes, Darcy dear, it does seem that Elizabeth reserves her playful teasing for you alone...but it's not what you think!)
I cannot help but find Mr. Hurd's Darcy to be everything that is admirable and adorable! He is essentially the honorable and loyal hero we know and love at the end of Pride and Prejudice, but instead of being arrogant and officious, he is portrayed as reserved and a little lacking in social graces. When it comes to women, especially, we see how Darcy is inexperienced and awkward. Why does he not engage Elizabeth more in conversation? Does he see through Caroline's machinations? Why did he propose so badly? Even though Darcy has spent nine seasons in London society, he hasn't learned enough to keep him out of trouble...
I greatly enjoyed the continuation of Darcy's intensive retrospection in this novel. He is in pursuit of logic and truth, and steadfastly tries to align the desires of his heart with his sense of duty and obligation. I loved seeing Darcy question society's rules and practices, and I enjoyed watching him go to Georgiana, Colonel Fitzwilliam, his uncle, and even a former tutor to debate and question matters of the heart, matrimony, and society. He is a man desperately seeking some enlightenment!
Before I close, I must add how exquisitely poignant it was to see the proposal, letter, and aftermath from Darcy's perspective! What a powerful and palpable impression of heartache and anguish! Beautifully and evocatively rendered, Mr. Hurd! Well done! I'm all anticipation for Darcy's Tale, Volume III: The Way Home!
Austenesque Reviews
November 4, 2021
I am surprised at how bingeable this 3-part retelling of "Pride and Prejudice" from Darcy's POV is proving out for me. On average, it takes 2 days for me to breeze through a sequel, even in these lockdown days, heavily laden with online teaching.
I assume it wouldn't be as bingeable for most people - the story follows the original plot closely, but it is slowed down with lots of Darcy's brooding and musing. Which might be what draws me in so immersively, actually. :/
I enjoy this Darcy's complexity and humanness. He may be a highly idealized man still, but he is definitely and without doubt - a man. At times gullible, at times given to his opinions much too much, at times vulnerable, at times strict... An intense, yet recognizable temperament.
The author really did him justice.
And he filled out the Lizzyless parts of the story admirably thoroughly. Just as I like my fanfiction - close to the canon. Rich and convincing.
Definitely worth the read, for all who like reading for character.
I assume it wouldn't be as bingeable for most people - the story follows the original plot closely, but it is slowed down with lots of Darcy's brooding and musing. Which might be what draws me in so immersively, actually. :/
I enjoy this Darcy's complexity and humanness. He may be a highly idealized man still, but he is definitely and without doubt - a man. At times gullible, at times given to his opinions much too much, at times vulnerable, at times strict... An intense, yet recognizable temperament.
The author really did him justice.
And he filled out the Lizzyless parts of the story admirably thoroughly. Just as I like my fanfiction - close to the canon. Rich and convincing.
Definitely worth the read, for all who like reading for character.
June 21, 2021
This is the second volume of Darcy's Tale, the original story of P&P from Darcy's perspective. While I feel the first volume is superior to this second installment, I still enjoyed the continuation of this tale and the beautiful way it is written. The first big chunk of this book is completely original from canon, which makes sense as all we know of Darcy during this time from Jane Austen is that he had left Netherfield for London after the ball, then we can only guess his movements until he resurfaces at Rosings in the Spring. This author fills in that gap.
My only complaint about book 2 is it there were parts where the pacing started to feel slow and all the introspection started to feel long, but it wasn’t enough to detract too much from my enjoyment. I also thought the situation with Miss Chesterton presented Darcy as a bit too naive for someone as astute and intelligent as Darcy who has been moving in society for that long, but it did make a colorful plot point!
Again, this is only the second increment of the story and leaves you wanting to immediately pic up the third and final installment of the story.
My only complaint about book 2 is it there were parts where the pacing started to feel slow and all the introspection started to feel long, but it wasn’t enough to detract too much from my enjoyment. I also thought the situation with Miss Chesterton presented Darcy as a bit too naive for someone as astute and intelligent as Darcy who has been moving in society for that long, but it did make a colorful plot point!
Again, this is only the second increment of the story and leaves you wanting to immediately pic up the third and final installment of the story.
October 2, 2023
This was well done, but really long for the quiet time between the ball at Netherfield and the Bad Proposal. It's an older story, and this was the trend at the time, almost every day, thought was laid out for us. This is something I would have loved 10 years ago, but now I am less exacting. I loved reading London-Darcy, because he's so oblivious yet righteous. You can see in the characterization how he misunderstood Elizabeth. Off to the last volume!
November 19, 2021
Volume II was excellent. Bravo, Mr Hurd.
September 28, 2014
Mr. Darcy returns from Hertfordshire to London to his loving sister, who is eager to hear all about Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Darcy tells her it's of no consequence and not to dwell on what can not be. Darcy spends a lot of time trying to come up with a logical debate on why he should or should not marry Elizabeth. He tries to help poor Bingley who is suffering from a broken heart. Together they enter into Society a bit and try to find suitable mates. Darcy is enchanted by a lively, intelligent young lady but not enough to want to marry her, at least not yet. Then comes Easter and his annual trip to Kent to see his aunt where he comes face to face with Elizabeth once again. Darcy delights in Elizabeth's lively mind, her teasing and her precious silence when only silence will do. Should he speak what's in his heart and mind? Of course we all know the answer to that question and what happens next.
This book does a good job of fleshing out the story and putting Darcy in his element. We see the man he is with his friends, laughing and teasing; the man he is with his sister, kind and loving; the man he sees himself as, logical and proud and the man he is with Elizabeth, tongue tied and awkwardly teasing. If you don't care for period details and lots of logical arguments, you will probably find this book boring. I love period details and that's why I find the hero diary novels boring. There are some great details about life in London for one of Darcy's station and how Georgiana is learning to become an adult.
We learn Darcy's idea of what love is based on his experiences with ladies of the ton and why he loves Elizabeth so much. He's really conflicted between duty and desire. He's in love but he's so concerned with upholding the family name and good breeding that he's miserable. He confides in his friends and family which is nice because it shows a different side of him that we don't normally see. However, I don't see Darcy as the laughing, teasing sort. He had a lot of pressure put on him at a young age when his father died. He didn't really get to live it up with other young men in town. He worries about Georgiana and everything else. We know he's not the teasing sort because at the end of the original novel, the narrator tells us Elizabeth is tempted to tease him but she doesn't because he hasn't learned to laugh at himself yet and then we learn Georgiana is shocked by the way Lizzy talks to her husband. The Darcy is this book is not as stiff as I picture him. I guess I'm mostly used to brooding Darcy.
There are a lot of new characters in this story. I really liked the introduction of Darcy's other possible love interest. She is another character from another novel. I picked up on her identity pretty quickly and I saw right through her. I wasn't at all surprised by what Darcy's valet learned but I felt Darcy was TOO innocent and should have known better. His reaction is pretty ptitiful. Darcy's valet, Perkins, is another new character. He's enigmatic in this book. We don't know much about him except he knows his duty, like his master, but he also seems to like to flirt. Other new characters include Darcy's family: The Earl of Andover, his lovely wife, his eldest son George, Viscount St. Stephens and of course Colonel Edmund Fitzwilliam. Darcy's relatives are parallels to Elizabeth's family. The Earl and Countess are much like the Gardiners; a loving, supportive couple who help guide the Darcys to adulthood. Cousin George is a fop, a member of the Carlton House set, a "duckling" and direct parallel to a certain obsequious clergyman related to Elizabeth. Bingley appears as well but I see him as a new character because this Bingley comes across as more intelligent and witty than the original. He's fully well aware of what his sister's goal is and how Darcy feels about it without being told. Bingley is such a likeable character though, I felt like I needed to give him a hug!
This second volume is better than the first. I'm curious though how Darcy is going to grow and change if he's already not as stiff as usually portrayed.
This book does a good job of fleshing out the story and putting Darcy in his element. We see the man he is with his friends, laughing and teasing; the man he is with his sister, kind and loving; the man he sees himself as, logical and proud and the man he is with Elizabeth, tongue tied and awkwardly teasing. If you don't care for period details and lots of logical arguments, you will probably find this book boring. I love period details and that's why I find the hero diary novels boring. There are some great details about life in London for one of Darcy's station and how Georgiana is learning to become an adult.
We learn Darcy's idea of what love is based on his experiences with ladies of the ton and why he loves Elizabeth so much. He's really conflicted between duty and desire. He's in love but he's so concerned with upholding the family name and good breeding that he's miserable. He confides in his friends and family which is nice because it shows a different side of him that we don't normally see. However, I don't see Darcy as the laughing, teasing sort. He had a lot of pressure put on him at a young age when his father died. He didn't really get to live it up with other young men in town. He worries about Georgiana and everything else. We know he's not the teasing sort because at the end of the original novel, the narrator tells us Elizabeth is tempted to tease him but she doesn't because he hasn't learned to laugh at himself yet and then we learn Georgiana is shocked by the way Lizzy talks to her husband. The Darcy is this book is not as stiff as I picture him. I guess I'm mostly used to brooding Darcy.
There are a lot of new characters in this story. I really liked the introduction of Darcy's other possible love interest. She is another character from another novel. I picked up on her identity pretty quickly and I saw right through her. I wasn't at all surprised by what Darcy's valet learned but I felt Darcy was TOO innocent and should have known better. His reaction is pretty ptitiful. Darcy's valet, Perkins, is another new character. He's enigmatic in this book. We don't know much about him except he knows his duty, like his master, but he also seems to like to flirt. Other new characters include Darcy's family: The Earl of Andover, his lovely wife, his eldest son George, Viscount St. Stephens and of course Colonel Edmund Fitzwilliam. Darcy's relatives are parallels to Elizabeth's family. The Earl and Countess are much like the Gardiners; a loving, supportive couple who help guide the Darcys to adulthood. Cousin George is a fop, a member of the Carlton House set, a "duckling" and direct parallel to a certain obsequious clergyman related to Elizabeth. Bingley appears as well but I see him as a new character because this Bingley comes across as more intelligent and witty than the original. He's fully well aware of what his sister's goal is and how Darcy feels about it without being told. Bingley is such a likeable character though, I felt like I needed to give him a hug!
This second volume is better than the first. I'm curious though how Darcy is going to grow and change if he's already not as stiff as usually portrayed.
December 29, 2015
Hers my review for the whole series ...
http://www.amazon.com/review/R3IJYSCX...
http://www.amazon.com/review/R3IJYSCX...
January 7, 2014
The second volume in this compelling series sees Darcy navigate the pitfalls of London society before travelling into Kent to see his Aunt and once more encounter Elizabeth Bennett. As with the first book the scenes in and around the original story are done beautifully and the new passages in London are such as would not disappoint a fan of regency romances, and can’t fail to make you smile.
I liked the little insights into Georgiana’s character that we see in her letters, and I think it’s a shame that they were almost entirely relegated to the appendix in this volume, especially as they are difficult to read in the kindle version where we cannot flick easily between the correspondents, it would be much better if the letters were in chronological order rather than listed by character. This is true of the first book as well, but there they were included in the main text to a greater extent.
The following might be a very slight spoiler though I will not be too specific.
I do feel that the established parts of the book are the strongest, and despite my enjoyment of the extra scenes I can’t help wondering if Mr Darcy would be truly that oblivious to certain things. I also felt that Miss Chesterton’s circumstances and position were slightly at odds, which could have been smoothed over by making her either very rich, or a widow.
Overall however it was a very enjoyable read and I am looking forward to the conclusion later this year.
I liked the little insights into Georgiana’s character that we see in her letters, and I think it’s a shame that they were almost entirely relegated to the appendix in this volume, especially as they are difficult to read in the kindle version where we cannot flick easily between the correspondents, it would be much better if the letters were in chronological order rather than listed by character. This is true of the first book as well, but there they were included in the main text to a greater extent.
The following might be a very slight spoiler though I will not be too specific.
I do feel that the established parts of the book are the strongest, and despite my enjoyment of the extra scenes I can’t help wondering if Mr Darcy would be truly that oblivious to certain things. I also felt that Miss Chesterton’s circumstances and position were slightly at odds, which could have been smoothed over by making her either very rich, or a widow.
Overall however it was a very enjoyable read and I am looking forward to the conclusion later this year.
January 11, 2015
Gosh, what to say. I read the three book series today so I am reviewing them as a whole. As usual, I don't want to give anything away so don't look for an in-depth review here. This is a Darcy POV book series with, in my opinion, little heart and zero passion. The most passionate scene with Darcy in it is with Wickham. In fact, the Wickham scenes were the highlight. The book faithfully adheres to the original and the scenes imagined are better than some but all the charm and love felt from the original P & P was lacking.
A better choice to read would be Pam Aiden's POV.
A better choice to read would be Pam Aiden's POV.
March 8, 2023
This was good but slightly weird and felt off to me. I was excited to see more about what Darcy did when he left Netherfield and see his relationship with Bingley, his cousin Fitzwilliam, and Georgiana. However, he did seem a bit ooc at times; for a man that’s all about being proper I don’t understand how he did NOT realize the implications of obliging Miss Bingley when she basically asked if she could contribute to finding furniture for his house (which feels so weird to say at this day and age lol). I was also at a loss of how naive he was with Lady Susan… especially when everyone was clearly not happy to see her wherever she was (also why didn’t anyone explicitly warn him?? The fact that his ill-mannered cousin introduced her to him should have been a red flag in itself). I appreciate what the author was trying to do there but the way Darcy was portrayed during those plot points felt off to me. My favorite part when Mr I-have-manners Darcy really asked his friend what was wrong about a young woman of 15 trying to sit on a man’s lap 😭 like WHAT??
I think the ooc comes from the fact that we don’t actually get to see what he’s like with the people he’s comfortable around in the original book, because when we get to the parts that were explicitly described in the book (like his trip to Kent), things got better. I really liked the insights and context the author added to explain Darcy’s actions and thought processes (except for the two plot points mentioned above). Even though I read Pride and Prejudice many times, sometimes I’m baffled by how he concluded that Elizabeth may have liked him back. Seeing this perspective makes it understandable; I thought it was really clever how he was able to show how he misinterpreted her comments.
I think the character the author did best in this was our sad boi Bingley. And I’m very sad that he wasn’t as prevalent as I wanted him to be in this one. Darcy’s relationship with his cousin was also amazing and it was cute to see them teasing each other. But how did his cousin not catch on that Elizabeth was the girl he was crushing on earlier?? I also can’t reconcile with the fact that the Colonel calls him DIRKS. What a dweeb.
I also want to mention that I thought it odd that Georgina was not out but still hosted and attended a ball?? I’m no expert but it didn’t make sense to me. Not a huge deal in the scale of things but I did find it a bit strange why that was even a thing.
Overall I enjoyed it, but some parts that were portrayed made me feel a bit more uneasy. Still the best retelling I’ve read so far.
I think the ooc comes from the fact that we don’t actually get to see what he’s like with the people he’s comfortable around in the original book, because when we get to the parts that were explicitly described in the book (like his trip to Kent), things got better. I really liked the insights and context the author added to explain Darcy’s actions and thought processes (except for the two plot points mentioned above). Even though I read Pride and Prejudice many times, sometimes I’m baffled by how he concluded that Elizabeth may have liked him back. Seeing this perspective makes it understandable; I thought it was really clever how he was able to show how he misinterpreted her comments.
I think the character the author did best in this was our sad boi Bingley. And I’m very sad that he wasn’t as prevalent as I wanted him to be in this one. Darcy’s relationship with his cousin was also amazing and it was cute to see them teasing each other. But how did his cousin not catch on that Elizabeth was the girl he was crushing on earlier?? I also can’t reconcile with the fact that the Colonel calls him DIRKS. What a dweeb.
I also want to mention that I thought it odd that Georgina was not out but still hosted and attended a ball?? I’m no expert but it didn’t make sense to me. Not a huge deal in the scale of things but I did find it a bit strange why that was even a thing.
Overall I enjoyed it, but some parts that were portrayed made me feel a bit more uneasy. Still the best retelling I’ve read so far.
September 7, 2016
Review Tally - based out of 5
OVERALL: 3 1/2 STARS
Story/Plot: 2 - Sadly, I am giving this a 2. Yet again, I read an account of a "Gentleman's Daily Life About Town" with the second V. of P&P told through Mr. Darcy's eyes. As I stated in my previous note/review of Darcy's Tale,, I was deeply disappointed with Pamela Aidan's second volume of her Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman series, Duty and Desire. I wonder if this is because I am a huge P&P fan and this colors how I view these works. If so, I apologize to both authors for this short coming, but I cannot take away how I felt. In this volume, Darcy returns to Town to "deal" with Bingley before setting out for Pemberley to collect his sister for Christmas, which is going to be spent in Town with Family and Friends. I will not drop spoilers, but if you have read Ms. Aidan's Duty and Desire I will mention it was a little similar. My major concern was the storyline in regards to P&P, wherein Col. Fitzwilliam and Mr. Darcy visit Lady Catherine deBourgh in Kent, and Darcy discovers Elizabeth to be in residence and rekindles his (somewhat)romance with her, doesn't happen until Chapter 17. There are only 24 Chapters. Prior to this, you are left with Darcy's ever present thoughts and feelings and long winded prose. I apologize for this, but I couldn't help thinking - god, Mr. Darcy is a bit of wimp, deeply shallow and a tad pathetic. *sigh* Where, oh where, was MY Mr. Darcy?!
Re-read Value: 2 - I think I am being generous with the 2 here too. I did enjoy this volume considerably more than Duty and Desire - although in that on you have a little side of intrigue and if I totally spoiled it for you, I apologize. In this volume though, you see more of Bingley's suffering & although this might sound rude, I kinda liked that. If I were to re-read this volume, I would more than likely skip Chapters 1 - 17 and skip right to where it picks up the P&P thread.
Continue Series: 5 - I do intend to finish this series. The next one will not become available until the summer of 2014, so I do have a bit of a wait though.
Characters: 3.5 - There was an introduction to new characters and as I stated above, I liked to see Bingley suffer after disappointing Jane's hopes. There were a number of things that struck me and if you are curious, I will drop them in the Personal Involvement comments & they are also in comments I made while reading the novel. I will warn you, you might consider them SPOILERS of a sort, so you might wish to avoid them if this concerns you.
Cover: 4 - Again, this cover is very masculine, depicting a Gentleman on the cover. Anyone coming across the cover on a shelf or a quick glance might think it's a biography or journal of an English Gentleman circa the Regency Era - i.e. he's wearing a cravet. Upon seeing the title, us P&P fans will most likely pick it up recognizing it as a P&P through Mr. Darcy's POV.
Genre Fulfillment: 4 - Yes. Yes, I know what you are thinking if you actually wasted time glancing at the notes or thoughts from my review of Darcy's Tale: Into Hertfordshire. That was a 5, but again, THAT was unequivocally a P&P retelling. Although THIS ONE IS a retelling of P& too, the actually storyline of P&P is not picked up until the very end of the volume. Yes, it does deal with various characters from P&P, but I found it more a historical fiction piece explaining about Society, life in Town and how a Gentleman runs an Estate and financial matters during the Regency Era. In that element it makes an interesting read, BUT, for me, I thought this book should represent a retelling of P&P and so cannot say it fulfilled it's promise to the reader.
Personal Involvement: 5 LOL, I know you're a little shocked huh?! Reading this review/note, you have seen how disappointed I was while reading this volume, so you might be wondering why then my rating for this is so high, while in the previous review, I gave it a rating of 4. Simply put, you can have feelings of strong approval and strong dislike equally. Now, don't get me wrong, I didn't dislike this volume, I just had a lot of strong thoughts and feelings about it. Up above, I told you I was happy reading about Bingley's pain after deciding to no longer pursue Jane Bennet. I have to be honest, I always wished this issue was addressed because in P&P we see how hurt and sad Jane is. She trusts no one and becomes a pale imitation of herself, which distresses Elizabeth, her Father and the Gardiniers. I like how we see Bingley's suffering and his inability to smile just as much. BEWARE SLIGHT SPOILERS FROM THIS POINT: There is also a scene, where there is talk about the Gentry in terms of animal husbandry, which I found hilarious to say the least - I also wondered if someone from the Aristocracy were to read this volume what they would have thought upon those comments. Another concern I had - minus Col. Fitzwilliam, whose name I have ALWAYS known as Richard, is still referred to as Edmund - was on the way to Kent, Mr. Darcy makes reference to marrying a woman below yourself. At first he alludes to Mr. Bingley, but it changes quickly to represent himself. this bothers me, because in P&P Col. Fitzwilliam makes mention to Elizabeth about Mr. Darcy's involvement in separating Bingley from a woman in Hertfordshire this past fall, BUT NOW, Col. Fitzwilliam knows of Darcy's interest in a woman in Hertfordshire as well. Maybe it is me and I apologize, but this bothered me considerably. There is one other issue, but rather I think it is an interesting thing, which I never considered before. Do you remember the scene in P&P, when Mr. Darcy comes upon Elizabeth alone at the parsonage when Charlotte and Maria are out running errands? When he and she discuss the advantages or disadvantages of distance between families? In this volume, it the idea is entertained THIS is where Mr. Darcy believes Elizabeth knows of his interest in her and reciprocates his feelings. I feel I can never read this scene in P&P ever again without smirking and shaking my head at his thoughts - especially when the proposal scene is a short ways ahead and he finds out she never thought of him in that way.
All in all, I thought it was a good book, but in regards to a true retelling of P&P I felt it lacked a little, but is well worth the read.
OVERALL: 3 1/2 STARS
Story/Plot: 2 - Sadly, I am giving this a 2. Yet again, I read an account of a "Gentleman's Daily Life About Town" with the second V. of P&P told through Mr. Darcy's eyes. As I stated in my previous note/review of Darcy's Tale,, I was deeply disappointed with Pamela Aidan's second volume of her Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman series, Duty and Desire. I wonder if this is because I am a huge P&P fan and this colors how I view these works. If so, I apologize to both authors for this short coming, but I cannot take away how I felt. In this volume, Darcy returns to Town to "deal" with Bingley before setting out for Pemberley to collect his sister for Christmas, which is going to be spent in Town with Family and Friends. I will not drop spoilers, but if you have read Ms. Aidan's Duty and Desire I will mention it was a little similar. My major concern was the storyline in regards to P&P, wherein Col. Fitzwilliam and Mr. Darcy visit Lady Catherine deBourgh in Kent, and Darcy discovers Elizabeth to be in residence and rekindles his (somewhat)romance with her, doesn't happen until Chapter 17. There are only 24 Chapters. Prior to this, you are left with Darcy's ever present thoughts and feelings and long winded prose. I apologize for this, but I couldn't help thinking - god, Mr. Darcy is a bit of wimp, deeply shallow and a tad pathetic. *sigh* Where, oh where, was MY Mr. Darcy?!
Re-read Value: 2 - I think I am being generous with the 2 here too. I did enjoy this volume considerably more than Duty and Desire - although in that on you have a little side of intrigue and if I totally spoiled it for you, I apologize. In this volume though, you see more of Bingley's suffering & although this might sound rude, I kinda liked that. If I were to re-read this volume, I would more than likely skip Chapters 1 - 17 and skip right to where it picks up the P&P thread.
Continue Series: 5 - I do intend to finish this series. The next one will not become available until the summer of 2014, so I do have a bit of a wait though.
Characters: 3.5 - There was an introduction to new characters and as I stated above, I liked to see Bingley suffer after disappointing Jane's hopes. There were a number of things that struck me and if you are curious, I will drop them in the Personal Involvement comments & they are also in comments I made while reading the novel. I will warn you, you might consider them SPOILERS of a sort, so you might wish to avoid them if this concerns you.
Cover: 4 - Again, this cover is very masculine, depicting a Gentleman on the cover. Anyone coming across the cover on a shelf or a quick glance might think it's a biography or journal of an English Gentleman circa the Regency Era - i.e. he's wearing a cravet. Upon seeing the title, us P&P fans will most likely pick it up recognizing it as a P&P through Mr. Darcy's POV.
Genre Fulfillment: 4 - Yes. Yes, I know what you are thinking if you actually wasted time glancing at the notes or thoughts from my review of Darcy's Tale: Into Hertfordshire. That was a 5, but again, THAT was unequivocally a P&P retelling. Although THIS ONE IS a retelling of P& too, the actually storyline of P&P is not picked up until the very end of the volume. Yes, it does deal with various characters from P&P, but I found it more a historical fiction piece explaining about Society, life in Town and how a Gentleman runs an Estate and financial matters during the Regency Era. In that element it makes an interesting read, BUT, for me, I thought this book should represent a retelling of P&P and so cannot say it fulfilled it's promise to the reader.
Personal Involvement: 5 LOL, I know you're a little shocked huh?! Reading this review/note, you have seen how disappointed I was while reading this volume, so you might be wondering why then my rating for this is so high, while in the previous review, I gave it a rating of 4. Simply put, you can have feelings of strong approval and strong dislike equally. Now, don't get me wrong, I didn't dislike this volume, I just had a lot of strong thoughts and feelings about it. Up above, I told you I was happy reading about Bingley's pain after deciding to no longer pursue Jane Bennet. I have to be honest, I always wished this issue was addressed because in P&P we see how hurt and sad Jane is. She trusts no one and becomes a pale imitation of herself, which distresses Elizabeth, her Father and the Gardiniers. I like how we see Bingley's suffering and his inability to smile just as much. BEWARE SLIGHT SPOILERS FROM THIS POINT: There is also a scene, where there is talk about the Gentry in terms of animal husbandry, which I found hilarious to say the least - I also wondered if someone from the Aristocracy were to read this volume what they would have thought upon those comments. Another concern I had - minus Col. Fitzwilliam, whose name I have ALWAYS known as Richard, is still referred to as Edmund - was on the way to Kent, Mr. Darcy makes reference to marrying a woman below yourself. At first he alludes to Mr. Bingley, but it changes quickly to represent himself. this bothers me, because in P&P Col. Fitzwilliam makes mention to Elizabeth about Mr. Darcy's involvement in separating Bingley from a woman in Hertfordshire this past fall, BUT NOW, Col. Fitzwilliam knows of Darcy's interest in a woman in Hertfordshire as well. Maybe it is me and I apologize, but this bothered me considerably. There is one other issue, but rather I think it is an interesting thing, which I never considered before. Do you remember the scene in P&P, when Mr. Darcy comes upon Elizabeth alone at the parsonage when Charlotte and Maria are out running errands? When he and she discuss the advantages or disadvantages of distance between families? In this volume, it the idea is entertained THIS is where Mr. Darcy believes Elizabeth knows of his interest in her and reciprocates his feelings. I feel I can never read this scene in P&P ever again without smirking and shaking my head at his thoughts - especially when the proposal scene is a short ways ahead and he finds out she never thought of him in that way.
All in all, I thought it was a good book, but in regards to a true retelling of P&P I felt it lacked a little, but is well worth the read.
February 4, 2020
Well done
As was true in the first book of this series, the author has a firm grasp of the tone of the original P&P, and is true to the portrayal of Darcy as Jane Austen imagined him. He is a very passionate man, although his standing in Regency era aristocracy demands that he suppress all outward evidence of it, and therein lies the root of the trouble he always seems to have in his dealings with Elizabeth.
This representation of Darcy's pov stresses not only his passionate nature, but also his intellectual one, his possession of a mind ruled by logic and order, almost unable to accept the vagaries of romantic love. Every encounter with Elizabeth is analyzed, based on his interpretation of her words and facial expressions, and assigned a value based on what he thinks he is projecting to her by his own words and actions. These values are often in error, as he seems unable to realize that how Elizabeth sees him is worlds away from what he intended. For such an intelligent man, and one who is 28 years old, he seems extremely naive in the ways of love and quite blind to how he appears to others.
The book is well written and well edited. I was a little put off by the rigidity of Darcy's reliance on strict logic and strict adherence to the restraints of proper social behavior, but other than that I recommend the book highly.
As was true in the first book of this series, the author has a firm grasp of the tone of the original P&P, and is true to the portrayal of Darcy as Jane Austen imagined him. He is a very passionate man, although his standing in Regency era aristocracy demands that he suppress all outward evidence of it, and therein lies the root of the trouble he always seems to have in his dealings with Elizabeth.
This representation of Darcy's pov stresses not only his passionate nature, but also his intellectual one, his possession of a mind ruled by logic and order, almost unable to accept the vagaries of romantic love. Every encounter with Elizabeth is analyzed, based on his interpretation of her words and facial expressions, and assigned a value based on what he thinks he is projecting to her by his own words and actions. These values are often in error, as he seems unable to realize that how Elizabeth sees him is worlds away from what he intended. For such an intelligent man, and one who is 28 years old, he seems extremely naive in the ways of love and quite blind to how he appears to others.
The book is well written and well edited. I was a little put off by the rigidity of Darcy's reliance on strict logic and strict adherence to the restraints of proper social behavior, but other than that I recommend the book highly.
August 11, 2022
Delusional Darcy: the Character made Human
There are many moments I feel Darcy is very out of character. Especially in the moments where the author used a bit of filler story to flesh him out a bit more. He’s dense, charming, and strangely open at times.
Though I suppose the author was lending credence to Darcy’s misguided proposal.
I did like how we were treated to how Darcy interpreted all of Elizabeth’s barbs (which in P&P we all knew to be mean spirited) in a positive light, giving him confidence where it should have given him pause or at least an idea of her true feelings. Instead he let feelings and pride delude him irreparable.
To be honest I skimmed some bits because the pacing sometimes lost my attention (especially in Kent) and I wanted to get to the good bits.
The character I felt that was best displayed in this book was actually Bingley. His constant disbelief there was no affection from Jane his character brightening in company but quietly wallowing when he thought to long about her.
All and all a good story and good reasoning for his complete muck up of a proposal. Though Darcy did lose a bit of his stoicism and natural calmness. He did, however, become much more human in my eyes.
There are many moments I feel Darcy is very out of character. Especially in the moments where the author used a bit of filler story to flesh him out a bit more. He’s dense, charming, and strangely open at times.
Though I suppose the author was lending credence to Darcy’s misguided proposal.
I did like how we were treated to how Darcy interpreted all of Elizabeth’s barbs (which in P&P we all knew to be mean spirited) in a positive light, giving him confidence where it should have given him pause or at least an idea of her true feelings. Instead he let feelings and pride delude him irreparable.
To be honest I skimmed some bits because the pacing sometimes lost my attention (especially in Kent) and I wanted to get to the good bits.
The character I felt that was best displayed in this book was actually Bingley. His constant disbelief there was no affection from Jane his character brightening in company but quietly wallowing when he thought to long about her.
All and all a good story and good reasoning for his complete muck up of a proposal. Though Darcy did lose a bit of his stoicism and natural calmness. He did, however, become much more human in my eyes.
February 27, 2018
Darcy’s character
I still feel as I did after having read the first volume that this author have written Darcy’s and indeed, the other characters with a great depth.
I have found this lacking in other fanfics. I feel like this could just as easily have been an original of that time. When delving this deep inside a character as this author has, even though it follows the same timelines and events, it simply becomes a new book.
This fanfiction really appeals to me for in my head, this really is Fitzwilliam Darcy. He really is proud and an ass at times, but he cannot see his faults as he constantly justifies his words and actions. The ending of this book is worth so much! Dear lord, to read his mind while making Elizabeth the offer of marriage. His thoughts of her rejection. Very juicy reading material. I highly recommend everyone to read this volume as well!
I still feel as I did after having read the first volume that this author have written Darcy’s and indeed, the other characters with a great depth.
I have found this lacking in other fanfics. I feel like this could just as easily have been an original of that time. When delving this deep inside a character as this author has, even though it follows the same timelines and events, it simply becomes a new book.
This fanfiction really appeals to me for in my head, this really is Fitzwilliam Darcy. He really is proud and an ass at times, but he cannot see his faults as he constantly justifies his words and actions. The ending of this book is worth so much! Dear lord, to read his mind while making Elizabeth the offer of marriage. His thoughts of her rejection. Very juicy reading material. I highly recommend everyone to read this volume as well!
September 4, 2021
Austen would approve
Reviewed in Canada on September 12, 2019
Very well written, this second book of a series is better than the first in my opinion. The emotions Darcy feels come through the pages, especially when arriving in his chambers upon his return from Kent. Very moving moments.
Reviewed in Canada on September 12, 2019
Very well written, this second book of a series is better than the first in my opinion. The emotions Darcy feels come through the pages, especially when arriving in his chambers upon his return from Kent. Very moving moments.
October 10, 2022
This 2nd part of Stanley Michael Hurd's trilogy takes Darcy (surprisingly enough) into Kent and to the ill-fated proposal. This is a really enjoyable read and follows Jane Austen's original very closely. In these books, we are just seeing Darcy's point of view. I really recommend these to P&P fans.
March 4, 2021
This one I liked it, but the first part where all his life in London is shown, i found it a bit long and somethings could really be skiped.
In general I really enjoy the second book and the fact that is his story based on the book... it wonderful!
In general I really enjoy the second book and the fact that is his story based on the book... it wonderful!
May 6, 2020
Very enjoyable read.
January 12, 2017
Never have I ever been so disappointed in the second volume of a series. After thoroughly enjoying the first volume, I eagerly took up this one, only to discover one of the most boring, plodding and inaccurate pieces of fiction I've ever read.
The time period was clearly not researched at all and the writer clearly does not understand Darcy's character:
-Despite not being out, Georgiana attends (practically hosts!) a large dinner party
-Darcy teases his valet. As his servant and social inferior this is inappropriate and not something he would do. That it is about a woman is even worse.
-Viscount St Stephens Fitzwilliam tries to tell a story about a strumpet. In mixed company. Including in front of his young NOT YET OUT unmarried female cousin. His mother THE COUNTESS handles this with a complete lack of decorum herself by HITTING HIM WITH A SPOON!
-The author is apparently unaware of the historical meaning of the word condescension and tries to criticize Collins for using it improperly, but really only reveals his own ignorance.
-In response to his friend telling him about a single young woman trying to climb into his lap: "What's the harm in that?" Darcy asked, mystified. DARCY. ASKED. MYSTIFIED. I'm supposed to believe that in a time where it was expected that a lady's first kiss would be in a church on her wedding day, that Mr. model of propriety and decorum Fitzwilliam Darcy would not see an issue with a woman climbing into a man's lap. Are you fucking kidding me?? And he's criticizing the Bennets??
-For all of the references to his position and his station, Darcy apparently has no idea how society works and seems to know only 2 people outside his family circle.
I'll add that for all that, the private Darcy has no issue telling literally EVERYONE about his feelings for Elizabeth. Everyone from Georgiana to the earl has no issue with the possible attachment, indeed they all try to convince him that it could work. Not only am I just not buying it, but it really undermines his future awful proposal by dismissing his concerns. His concerns wrt the Bennets aren't unreasonable, but it was rude to mention them in a marriage proposal. And if practically his whole family is encouraging it, how is he going against his family expectations?
I thought at first that perhaps the weak writing was due to an inability to write original content but unfortunately the writing does not improve once we finally reach Kent (FINALLY!) in ch. 17. There Darcy continues to be inconsistent, annoying and pathetic. The disastrous proposal is softened and the entire scene is cut up with way too many pieces of introspection that add nothing to the work.
I finally gave up finishing the piece halfway through the letter. I just couldn't punish myself anymore. This book was awful. I can't believe I wasted hours of my life and actual money on it.
The time period was clearly not researched at all and the writer clearly does not understand Darcy's character:
-Despite not being out, Georgiana attends (practically hosts!) a large dinner party
-Darcy teases his valet. As his servant and social inferior this is inappropriate and not something he would do. That it is about a woman is even worse.
-Viscount St Stephens Fitzwilliam tries to tell a story about a strumpet. In mixed company. Including in front of his young NOT YET OUT unmarried female cousin. His mother THE COUNTESS handles this with a complete lack of decorum herself by HITTING HIM WITH A SPOON!
-The author is apparently unaware of the historical meaning of the word condescension and tries to criticize Collins for using it improperly, but really only reveals his own ignorance.
-In response to his friend telling him about a single young woman trying to climb into his lap: "What's the harm in that?" Darcy asked, mystified. DARCY. ASKED. MYSTIFIED. I'm supposed to believe that in a time where it was expected that a lady's first kiss would be in a church on her wedding day, that Mr. model of propriety and decorum Fitzwilliam Darcy would not see an issue with a woman climbing into a man's lap. Are you fucking kidding me?? And he's criticizing the Bennets??
-For all of the references to his position and his station, Darcy apparently has no idea how society works and seems to know only 2 people outside his family circle.
I'll add that for all that, the private Darcy has no issue telling literally EVERYONE about his feelings for Elizabeth. Everyone from Georgiana to the earl has no issue with the possible attachment, indeed they all try to convince him that it could work. Not only am I just not buying it, but it really undermines his future awful proposal by dismissing his concerns. His concerns wrt the Bennets aren't unreasonable, but it was rude to mention them in a marriage proposal. And if practically his whole family is encouraging it, how is he going against his family expectations?
I thought at first that perhaps the weak writing was due to an inability to write original content but unfortunately the writing does not improve once we finally reach Kent (FINALLY!) in ch. 17. There Darcy continues to be inconsistent, annoying and pathetic. The disastrous proposal is softened and the entire scene is cut up with way too many pieces of introspection that add nothing to the work.
I finally gave up finishing the piece halfway through the letter. I just couldn't punish myself anymore. This book was awful. I can't believe I wasted hours of my life and actual money on it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2022
Recounting the same story from another PoV only brings added value if it brings new perspective, and a rich world of side characters and additional plot lines. In P&P, it's especially important since Darcy is away for long periods of time, and cannot be expected to just twiddle his thumbs while he's away.
This is why I am so often disappointed with Darcy's recountings/diaries/journals. And this is why Darcy's Tale (so far) has been a great surprise (just like Pamela Aiden's attempt, before).
In addition to giving substance to side-characters and creating others who we can find endearing (Miss Hartsbury), respect (the Andovers), or love to look down upon (St. Stephens of course), 'Into Derbyshire' & 'Into Kent' manage to keep Darcy in character, without making him a caricature.
In 'Into Kent', I particularly loved how cleverly Darcy misinterprets every single thing Elizabeth tells him, especially when he joins her on her walks (she repeatedly says she enjoys solitude and silence, but he completely misses the hint). While reading P&P, I could not understand how blind Darcy had to be to ignore Lizzy's dislike, but in 'Into Kent' it makes perfect sense.
However, there were a few elements that bothered me or - at least - made me break from the story once or twice:
- Darcy seems to open up too much (and to too many people) about his unpractical love - from Georgina, to whom he admits he was attracted to EB in a letter very early on, and with basically no provocation or question, to his mentor, his cousin, his oncle and aunt... That's too many people for someone so proud and secretive.
- His correspondance with Georgie seems more like a crutch to the narrative than an actually plausible correspondance between a much older brother and the sister he wants to protect. Especially when she insists he goes to the ball in Netherfield (vol. 1, "Into Derbyshire"). I can't imagine he would be so straightforward with her, and reveal so much.
- The whole chapter with his Oxford Mentor was overkill, and could have easily been edited out. The parallels to breeding animals etc., to me, is really not the point of the story or of Darcy's reserve. It was too convoluted and did not bring much to the story/his reflexion/the plot.
Still, I truly enjoyed the read. The writing is agreeable, often witty, never falls into pathos or sticky-sentimentalism. It respects P&P's spirit, which is rarer than one might think, in the JAFF world.
It perfectly fulfills my craving of something P&P.
Would recommend!
This is why I am so often disappointed with Darcy's recountings/diaries/journals. And this is why Darcy's Tale (so far) has been a great surprise (just like Pamela Aiden's attempt, before).
In addition to giving substance to side-characters and creating others who we can find endearing (Miss Hartsbury), respect (the Andovers), or love to look down upon (St. Stephens of course), 'Into Derbyshire' & 'Into Kent' manage to keep Darcy in character, without making him a caricature.
In 'Into Kent', I particularly loved how cleverly Darcy misinterprets every single thing Elizabeth tells him, especially when he joins her on her walks (she repeatedly says she enjoys solitude and silence, but he completely misses the hint). While reading P&P, I could not understand how blind Darcy had to be to ignore Lizzy's dislike, but in 'Into Kent' it makes perfect sense.
However, there were a few elements that bothered me or - at least - made me break from the story once or twice:
- Darcy seems to open up too much (and to too many people) about his unpractical love - from Georgina, to whom he admits he was attracted to EB in a letter very early on, and with basically no provocation or question, to his mentor, his cousin, his oncle and aunt... That's too many people for someone so proud and secretive.
- His correspondance with Georgie seems more like a crutch to the narrative than an actually plausible correspondance between a much older brother and the sister he wants to protect. Especially when she insists he goes to the ball in Netherfield (vol. 1, "Into Derbyshire"). I can't imagine he would be so straightforward with her, and reveal so much.
- The whole chapter with his Oxford Mentor was overkill, and could have easily been edited out. The parallels to breeding animals etc., to me, is really not the point of the story or of Darcy's reserve. It was too convoluted and did not bring much to the story/his reflexion/the plot.
Still, I truly enjoyed the read. The writing is agreeable, often witty, never falls into pathos or sticky-sentimentalism. It respects P&P's spirit, which is rarer than one might think, in the JAFF world.
It perfectly fulfills my craving of something P&P.
Would recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2017
https://austendiaries.blogspot.com/20...
Type: P&P Parallel (true to the original plot, told from a different perspective)
Perspective: Darcy
Romance Level: Austen-esque
Recommend: Yes, 3 stars
Darcy's Tale is broken into three parts like the original Pride and Prejudice. The second volume, Into Kent, covers the return from Netherfield to London, through the winter in London and the spring visit to Rosings Park with Lady Catherine, then the return journey to London. In addition to the events of the original, Darcy meets a new aquaintance who shows Elizabeth's true worth and visits an old professor to talk over his woes. This is enjoyable, but my least favorite of the trilogy.
I liked:
* Colonel Fitzwilliam is a wise, kind friend.
* The description of his confusion over his feelings for her. It makes the proposal so much more understandable.
* Pender, Darcy's old tutor, helps to show Darcy's thoughts in a very logical discussion. We see some of the prejudice start to break down,
I didn't like:
* Darcy gets emotionally involved with a woman he doesn't know very well. It didn't feel feasible given his propriety and character.
* It does seem unlikely Colonel Fitzwilliam would be in the dark about Darcy's attraction to Elizabeth for so long.
* We almost see too much of his thinking about Elizabeth. He has little else going on.
Type: P&P Parallel (true to the original plot, told from a different perspective)
Perspective: Darcy
Romance Level: Austen-esque
Recommend: Yes, 3 stars
Darcy's Tale is broken into three parts like the original Pride and Prejudice. The second volume, Into Kent, covers the return from Netherfield to London, through the winter in London and the spring visit to Rosings Park with Lady Catherine, then the return journey to London. In addition to the events of the original, Darcy meets a new aquaintance who shows Elizabeth's true worth and visits an old professor to talk over his woes. This is enjoyable, but my least favorite of the trilogy.
I liked:
* Colonel Fitzwilliam is a wise, kind friend.
* The description of his confusion over his feelings for her. It makes the proposal so much more understandable.
* Pender, Darcy's old tutor, helps to show Darcy's thoughts in a very logical discussion. We see some of the prejudice start to break down,
I didn't like:
* Darcy gets emotionally involved with a woman he doesn't know very well. It didn't feel feasible given his propriety and character.
* It does seem unlikely Colonel Fitzwilliam would be in the dark about Darcy's attraction to Elizabeth for so long.
* We almost see too much of his thinking about Elizabeth. He has little else going on.
May 2, 2014
This book is fantastic! It keeps with Jane Austen perfectly, save a few references to things I'm fairly certain would not have been considered proper by Austen or her era - the entire character of Miss Chesterton, for one (in that she tries to seduce Darcy). Also the mention of St. Stephen staring at a lady's necklace/neckline. But if Austen were to write about such things, I reckon it would be in much the same way Mr. Hurd has written it as it is done fairly tastefully (as tastefully as those sorts of things can be written ^-^ ). It is amazing how similar the writing style is - like a fresh work from Austen herself! (:
No profanity, no explicit scenes (though there are subtleties and hints to certain vulgar misdeeds)... but lots of good old fashioned elegance, class, and Austen-style wit. Such a delightful find! I look forward to Volume III as well as going back and reading Volume I.
F.Y.I.: If you know Pride & Prejudice, then you needn't have read Volume I in order to read Volume II, but otherwise you will probably need to have read the first book as Volume II does begin rather abruptly as a continuation of the first volume.
No profanity, no explicit scenes (though there are subtleties and hints to certain vulgar misdeeds)... but lots of good old fashioned elegance, class, and Austen-style wit. Such a delightful find! I look forward to Volume III as well as going back and reading Volume I.
F.Y.I.: If you know Pride & Prejudice, then you needn't have read Volume I in order to read Volume II, but otherwise you will probably need to have read the first book as Volume II does begin rather abruptly as a continuation of the first volume.
March 5, 2016
It may have taken me almost a month to finish this, but guys, it was so good! I only put off reading the end because I knew what was coming... And I knew it wouldn't be pretty. I finally got up the courage to finish it, and I'll admit that I got pretty teared up, especially the last few pages. Poor Darcy! You'd never think to feel so bad for him in the original, but this... It seriously pulls at your heartstrings.
I'm currently trying desperately to find a way to read the third and final ebook without paying too much for it, but I can't seem to find it anywhere! I'll have to check one last time at the public library, but I'm not holding my breath. I'll just have to pine away for the last book until I can afford to buy it. *sniff*
5 stars, given through my tears!
I'm currently trying desperately to find a way to read the third and final ebook without paying too much for it, but I can't seem to find it anywhere! I'll have to check one last time at the public library, but I'm not holding my breath. I'll just have to pine away for the last book until I can afford to buy it. *sniff*
5 stars, given through my tears!
May 25, 2014
Got this book for free. Passing along to a friend who actually likes Pride and Prejudice.
It probably would have helped if I liked Pride and Prejudice and even more if I had read the first book in this series. I got into this one and found myself just as bored as with the original. Of course, the writing was well done and point of view was good so if you meet the first 2 criteria, then you'll likely enjoy this book.
It probably would have helped if I liked Pride and Prejudice and even more if I had read the first book in this series. I got into this one and found myself just as bored as with the original. Of course, the writing was well done and point of view was good so if you meet the first 2 criteria, then you'll likely enjoy this book.
February 14, 2015
I enjoyed part 2 of this trilogy more than part 1 as I felt I really came to understand Darcy. His pain at losing Elizabeth is great and we read such depth of feeling that makes us pity a fictional character to extreme. Part 1 though less interesting due to too much detail is an essential read to understand some of the characters referenced in this novel and a key to understanding his struggle to let himself love Elizabeth. Quickly onto the last instalment!
January 30, 2014
This was an outstanding version of P&P from Darcy's point of view. It was well-written in the Austen style and stayed to true to the characters and events of P&P. It was so interesting to read the parts that the author filled in and to better understand, from a male perspective, what was going through Darcy's mind. I cannot wait until Volume III!
March 24, 2015
In this Pride and Prejudice tale as told from the view of Darcy, Volume 2 covers the time just after the Netherfield Ball to the unfortunate proposal at Rosings.
April 28, 2015
Darcy comes off as extremely obnoxious and his logic and the resulting conclusions are almost awkward
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