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An Ever-Fixèd Mark: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Why did such a handsome and presumably intelligent man have to be so . . . difficult?
When Elizabeth Bennet meets Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, she thinks him the most handsome man she has ever seen. Upon learning they have a similar taste in books, Elizabeth is eager to get to know the gentleman. However, when she observes his arrogant behavior, she determines to have as little to do with him as possible.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is intrigued by Miss Elizabeth Bennet, but he is careful not to show his interest. It is clear that she and his sister are becoming fast friends, but why does he get the impression she does not like him at all?
When a severe storm tears through Hertfordshire and throws the two of them together, something unexpected and powerful begins to grow between them.
Will it be strong enough to weather the tempests that are still to come?
When Elizabeth Bennet meets Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, she thinks him the most handsome man she has ever seen. Upon learning they have a similar taste in books, Elizabeth is eager to get to know the gentleman. However, when she observes his arrogant behavior, she determines to have as little to do with him as possible.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is intrigued by Miss Elizabeth Bennet, but he is careful not to show his interest. It is clear that she and his sister are becoming fast friends, but why does he get the impression she does not like him at all?
When a severe storm tears through Hertfordshire and throws the two of them together, something unexpected and powerful begins to grow between them.
Will it be strong enough to weather the tempests that are still to come?
369 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
May 17, 2026
One expects waaay fewer non-Regency words, modernisms, and period errors than double that of the average 4 star JAFF. The romance was slow, but in general, this story was well worth the reading time due to its fresh premise, engaging characterizations, and excellent application of its title.
May 1, 2026
When Elizabeth first encounters Fitzwilliam Darcy in Meryton’s bookshop she is intrigued. Not only is Darcy the handsomest man she has ever beheld but he also seems to have similar interests. She wants to get to know him better but after Darcy acts in a haughty and arrogant way around the people of Meryton she decides she does not want to have anything to do with him.
Darcy is captivated by Elizabeth but due to his experience in town with all the matchmaking mothers he is determined to not show his interest. When his sister becomes fast friends with the Bennet ladies he is repeatedly thrown in her company. Soon he gets the impression that Elizabeth doesn’t like him and tries to rectify the situation.
Will Darcy be able to change Elizabeth’s opinion of him? Will a brewing storm change their understanding of one another? And will their beginning friendship weather a removal to London?
The story was very well written by the author Angela Denise. It’s her first book and therefore also the first one I read by her. But I liked it very much. I hope there is more to come.
There is not much drama in the book besides the brewing storm and later some occurrences in London. But that has no ill effects on the story. It is rather quiet and sweet. And I really liked the wonderful description of the beginning love and romance between Darcy and Elizabeth. The author masterfully describes these tentative beginnings of a new love and the feelings of being newly in love as well as the uncertainty of feelings being reciprocated. It was so very well done, I was reminded of my feelings in this first time of a new relationship and could therefore very well understand all the feelings Darcy and Elizabeth experienced.
I really liked that Darcy, from the first moment, is very aware of Elizabeth and her moods. I like that he is attentive and looks closely. With this awareness and openness they are able to come to know each other with less misunderstandings between them because Darcy senses them early on and they are able to talk and clear them up. He is also very honest with Elizabeth and seeks her company all the time. The best requirements to get to know each other on a very personal level.
Elizabeth is not so stubborn in this story and, because her interest for Darcy is intrigued from the very first moment, is not so prejudiced as in canon. She is therefore very aware of Darcy. But because of their different situations in life she always thinks she is inferior to him. Fortunately this thinking does not prevent her from showing, unbeknownst to herself, her true self with all her capabilities in Darcy’s company. The first step for making Darcy fall in love with her.
Another part of the story I really liked was that the family of both Darcy and Elizabeth are very supportive. I particularly like that the Fitzwilliam relations of Darcy (except Lady Catherine) are so easy going and accept Elizabeth without much hesitation. And I appreciate that they also do it for the Colonel and his love interest. I always like it when, in the opinion of the Matlock family, happiness is more important than wealth and connection.
George Wickham is no part of the story therefore he is not present for the role of villain. But be assured that Lady Catherine and Caroline Bingley try their best in intervening in ODC’s relationship. But in the case of Lady Catherine Elizabeth is able to stop her on her own (go Elizabeth, go). Caroline Bingley was another matter but, in the end, she was not successful, especially because of the already very profound relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth.
The only thing I would criticize a bit in the book was that everyone “said” things or “grinned” a lot. But if you are able to look over these repetitions you will read a delightful and very sweet story. It certainly did not diminish my enjoyment of the story and I will not diminish my rating (5 stars).
If you like to know how Darcy, with the help of a storm, can change Elizabeth’s opinion of him you should definitely read this excellent story.
I highly recommend it
I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Darcy is captivated by Elizabeth but due to his experience in town with all the matchmaking mothers he is determined to not show his interest. When his sister becomes fast friends with the Bennet ladies he is repeatedly thrown in her company. Soon he gets the impression that Elizabeth doesn’t like him and tries to rectify the situation.
Will Darcy be able to change Elizabeth’s opinion of him? Will a brewing storm change their understanding of one another? And will their beginning friendship weather a removal to London?
The story was very well written by the author Angela Denise. It’s her first book and therefore also the first one I read by her. But I liked it very much. I hope there is more to come.
There is not much drama in the book besides the brewing storm and later some occurrences in London. But that has no ill effects on the story. It is rather quiet and sweet. And I really liked the wonderful description of the beginning love and romance between Darcy and Elizabeth. The author masterfully describes these tentative beginnings of a new love and the feelings of being newly in love as well as the uncertainty of feelings being reciprocated. It was so very well done, I was reminded of my feelings in this first time of a new relationship and could therefore very well understand all the feelings Darcy and Elizabeth experienced.
I really liked that Darcy, from the first moment, is very aware of Elizabeth and her moods. I like that he is attentive and looks closely. With this awareness and openness they are able to come to know each other with less misunderstandings between them because Darcy senses them early on and they are able to talk and clear them up. He is also very honest with Elizabeth and seeks her company all the time. The best requirements to get to know each other on a very personal level.
Elizabeth is not so stubborn in this story and, because her interest for Darcy is intrigued from the very first moment, is not so prejudiced as in canon. She is therefore very aware of Darcy. But because of their different situations in life she always thinks she is inferior to him. Fortunately this thinking does not prevent her from showing, unbeknownst to herself, her true self with all her capabilities in Darcy’s company. The first step for making Darcy fall in love with her.
Another part of the story I really liked was that the family of both Darcy and Elizabeth are very supportive. I particularly like that the Fitzwilliam relations of Darcy (except Lady Catherine) are so easy going and accept Elizabeth without much hesitation. And I appreciate that they also do it for the Colonel and his love interest. I always like it when, in the opinion of the Matlock family, happiness is more important than wealth and connection.
George Wickham is no part of the story therefore he is not present for the role of villain. But be assured that Lady Catherine and Caroline Bingley try their best in intervening in ODC’s relationship. But in the case of Lady Catherine Elizabeth is able to stop her on her own (go Elizabeth, go). Caroline Bingley was another matter but, in the end, she was not successful, especially because of the already very profound relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth.
The only thing I would criticize a bit in the book was that everyone “said” things or “grinned” a lot. But if you are able to look over these repetitions you will read a delightful and very sweet story. It certainly did not diminish my enjoyment of the story and I will not diminish my rating (5 stars).
If you like to know how Darcy, with the help of a storm, can change Elizabeth’s opinion of him you should definitely read this excellent story.
I highly recommend it
I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 17, 2026
new author for me!!
Recommend read all age groups, clean, low angst, possible trigger: attempted a/b by unhinged person handled in two sentences, no injuries
Plot: written in more modern prose, low angst 1st meeting ODC in Meryton bookstore, Elizabeth B decides wealthy Mr Darcy not worth her effort due to his innate arrogance & willfully ignores him much as possible afterwards & bam, there begins slow burn relationship in Regency England for ODC & two of her most deserving sisters! The Bingleys are surprisingly supportive characters, not main despite a pivotal storyline, which works for plot; Mrs Bennet quite a vulgar character per usual which distresses everyone except her, Mr B hides in his study (really if I was his wife id do a 18 hr daily sit in to force him to get up& out of there & come up with a parenting program 2save his daughters from looming poverty) Kitty more active, mutually dependent follower than canon while Lydia Bennets narcissistic personality threatens any HEA — but ODC & two surprising others do manage to work things out! Whew.
What I love: how quickly Darcy becomes willing to abandon his noble family & Ton’s expectations choosing socially superior wife for an unknown entity (Elizabeth Bennet), his willingness to pursue a young but very kind, slightly insecure Lizzie, bc he finds she genuinely interests his intellect; & the many supportive relationships between male/female MC’s & their friends/family members; plot pacing is appropriate & flows naturally.
What I didn’t care for: really my only complaint(s) would be the sparse manner of this authors writing? Like she’s not overly verbose (when an author takes two entire pages to say ‘he looked out his window and decided’… ugh. Boring) Perhaps this book meant for YA target audience? & some scene shifts were occasionally jarring. Still l enjoyed this book & read it straight thru. Hope future works will have a few more emotionally nuanced conversations & inner dialogues (& I say this despite I love the quick pacing lol). This author is worthy of future interest & this book is added to my TBRA list.
Recommend read all age groups, clean, low angst, possible trigger: attempted a/b by unhinged person handled in two sentences, no injuries
Plot: written in more modern prose, low angst 1st meeting ODC in Meryton bookstore, Elizabeth B decides wealthy Mr Darcy not worth her effort due to his innate arrogance & willfully ignores him much as possible afterwards & bam, there begins slow burn relationship in Regency England for ODC & two of her most deserving sisters! The Bingleys are surprisingly supportive characters, not main despite a pivotal storyline, which works for plot; Mrs Bennet quite a vulgar character per usual which distresses everyone except her, Mr B hides in his study (really if I was his wife id do a 18 hr daily sit in to force him to get up& out of there & come up with a parenting program 2save his daughters from looming poverty) Kitty more active, mutually dependent follower than canon while Lydia Bennets narcissistic personality threatens any HEA — but ODC & two surprising others do manage to work things out! Whew.
What I love: how quickly Darcy becomes willing to abandon his noble family & Ton’s expectations choosing socially superior wife for an unknown entity (Elizabeth Bennet), his willingness to pursue a young but very kind, slightly insecure Lizzie, bc he finds she genuinely interests his intellect; & the many supportive relationships between male/female MC’s & their friends/family members; plot pacing is appropriate & flows naturally.
What I didn’t care for: really my only complaint(s) would be the sparse manner of this authors writing? Like she’s not overly verbose (when an author takes two entire pages to say ‘he looked out his window and decided’… ugh. Boring) Perhaps this book meant for YA target audience? & some scene shifts were occasionally jarring. Still l enjoyed this book & read it straight thru. Hope future works will have a few more emotionally nuanced conversations & inner dialogues (& I say this despite I love the quick pacing lol). This author is worthy of future interest & this book is added to my TBRA list.
May 1, 2026
I really enjoyed this story—it offers a fresh and unique take on Elizabeth and Darcy’s first meeting. There’s no insult at the assembly; instead, they actually dance, which immediately sets a different tone for their relationship.
Elizabeth first encounters Darcy in a Meryton bookshop, where they both reach for An Exploration of the Canadian Wilderness by Malcolm Dean. I loved this detail—it creates an instant, quieter connection between them based on shared interest rather than misunderstanding. Elizabeth is intrigued, but Darcy’s aloofness keeps her from acting on it.
A violent storm changes everything, damaging Netherfield and Longbourn and forcing Bingley, Darcy, Georgiana, and Mrs. Annesley to take refuge with the Bennets. This setup works really well, giving Elizabeth and Darcy time together as they assess the damage and slowly build understanding.
In London, the story expands into multiple romantic arcs, which I really enjoyed. Jane and Colonel Fitzwilliam, as well as Mary and Whitney Hadley, each get their own courtships, adding warmth and variety to the story.
It was especially refreshing to read a Pride and Prejudice variation without Wickham or Mr. Collins, and with very little Lady Catherine. Removing the usual antagonists kept the focus on relationships and character development instead of external drama.
The story engaging without feeling rushed or drawn out. The author has a polished, assured style that makes this an easy and enjoyable read.
Overall, this is a low-angst, character-driven variation with a sweet, thoughtful progression of relationships. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a softer, more introspective take on Elizabeth and Darcy.
Elizabeth first encounters Darcy in a Meryton bookshop, where they both reach for An Exploration of the Canadian Wilderness by Malcolm Dean. I loved this detail—it creates an instant, quieter connection between them based on shared interest rather than misunderstanding. Elizabeth is intrigued, but Darcy’s aloofness keeps her from acting on it.
A violent storm changes everything, damaging Netherfield and Longbourn and forcing Bingley, Darcy, Georgiana, and Mrs. Annesley to take refuge with the Bennets. This setup works really well, giving Elizabeth and Darcy time together as they assess the damage and slowly build understanding.
In London, the story expands into multiple romantic arcs, which I really enjoyed. Jane and Colonel Fitzwilliam, as well as Mary and Whitney Hadley, each get their own courtships, adding warmth and variety to the story.
It was especially refreshing to read a Pride and Prejudice variation without Wickham or Mr. Collins, and with very little Lady Catherine. Removing the usual antagonists kept the focus on relationships and character development instead of external drama.
The story engaging without feeling rushed or drawn out. The author has a polished, assured style that makes this an easy and enjoyable read.
Overall, this is a low-angst, character-driven variation with a sweet, thoughtful progression of relationships. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a softer, more introspective take on Elizabeth and Darcy.
May 10, 2026
I very much enjoyed An Ever-Fixèd Mark! It is sweet and engaging. In this variation, there is no Merryton Assembly insult. Darcy and Elizabeth meet in a book shop in Meryton and are immediately attracted to each other. When I read the blurb, I thought Darcy and Elizabeth would end up in a cabin because of a storm, but it was a pleasant surprise to find that the residents of Netherfield Park (fortunately sans Caroline Bingley and the Hursts), had to find refuge in Longbourn. It was an excellent setting for Darcy and Elizabeth to get to know each other better and fall in love. The fact that Darcy fell in love with Elizabeth not only because of her fine eyes or sharp wit, but also because of her ability to manage her father's estate and deal with serious issues, was impressive. This is a charming P&P variation and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys low-angst sweet stories with ODC liking each other quite from the beginning.
May 28, 2026
This is the first book by Angela Denise, and it's a winner. Very well written, it's a delightful and sweet story.
Darcy quickly gives up the expectations that he will marry a member of the Ton, in favor of the squire's daughter, Elizabeth Bennet, the kind woman who interests his intellect. Elizabeth initially wants to know Darcy better, but after seeing his overdeveloped pride and his arrogance, she wants nothing to do with him. He gradually changes her mind. The beginning love between Darcy and Elizabeth is described beautifully.
There is little drama in the book, other than the weather and the antics of Miss Lydia.
Darcy quickly gives up the expectations that he will marry a member of the Ton, in favor of the squire's daughter, Elizabeth Bennet, the kind woman who interests his intellect. Elizabeth initially wants to know Darcy better, but after seeing his overdeveloped pride and his arrogance, she wants nothing to do with him. He gradually changes her mind. The beginning love between Darcy and Elizabeth is described beautifully.
There is little drama in the book, other than the weather and the antics of Miss Lydia.
May 2, 2026
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I was engaged from the first page and thought that the story and events rolled out well.
Some characters were kept to more minor roles which worked well within the story. Mary figures more prominently than in P&P and is quite likable. Lydia was kept in character with a different storyline that was realistic and believable. Overall Lizzy and Darcy's story was well written. Darcy has more visible personality and Lizzy is more retrospective. Both of these approaches work well.
Some characters were kept to more minor roles which worked well within the story. Mary figures more prominently than in P&P and is quite likable. Lydia was kept in character with a different storyline that was realistic and believable. Overall Lizzy and Darcy's story was well written. Darcy has more visible personality and Lizzy is more retrospective. Both of these approaches work well.
May 14, 2026
Wonderful
A lovely first variation! I enjoyed the idea of a tornado, and the different take on Bingley’s indecision. Miss Bingley was certainly dealt with in an interesting manner.
A lovely first variation! I enjoyed the idea of a tornado, and the different take on Bingley’s indecision. Miss Bingley was certainly dealt with in an interesting manner.
May 30, 2026
Beautiful story
I enjoyed not dealing with Mrs Bennett as most of the story was out of her realm. I especially enjoyed Caroline Bingley roll here.
I enjoyed not dealing with Mrs Bennett as most of the story was out of her realm. I especially enjoyed Caroline Bingley roll here.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews