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The Perils of Proximity: An Anthology of Pride and Prejudice Variations
Eight authors of Pride and Prejudice variations imagine Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet pushed into uncomfortably close quarters—by storms and sickrooms, by garden sheds and curses, by the cruel and convenient hand of fate.
What happens when there is nowhere left to retreat?
Certain Evils by Amy D’Orazio
After Elizabeth Bennet hurls Darcy’s letter into an old well, she curses him, wishing that ‘certain evils’—the epithet he applied to her dear sister—would be rained down upon him. Alas, over the next weeks, Darcy is forced to bear one misfortune after the next while Elizabeth is left to uncomfortably wonder if it is all her fault. Forced to share a roof with the man she so misjudged, Elizabeth must reckon with the inconvenient truth that the only curse she ever truly cast was the one she placed on her own ability to see him clearly.
Building Bridges by Ali Scott
When Elizabeth travels to Derbyshire with her uncle and aunt, she sees Mr Darcy have a terrible riding accident. Rushing to his aid, she is given an opportunity to rebuild their acquaintance anew. With every day spent in Mr Darcy’s company, Elizabeth realises that he is a man she could easily lose her heart to—but has she missed her chance?
Tempest by Frances Reynolds
When a violent storm traps Mr Darcy at the parsonage in the wake of Elizabeth's stinging refusal, the enforced proximity strips away the pride and prejudice that have kept them at odds, and two people who have thoroughly misread each other are at last compelled to speak plainly. Can a single afternoon of hard-won honesty lay the foundation for the love neither of them saw coming?
A Tax on His Forbearance by Jan Ashton
A storm and a bout of mushroom-fuelled illness strand Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet overnight in the Meryton home of her aunt and uncle Philips, where an evening of unexpectedly intimate conversation by firelight, conducted in nightclothes and candlelight, dissolves their mutual prejudices and sets them on the path to courtship.
A Just and Tender Spirit by Julie Cooper
When Mr Darcy, the humble but brooding vicar who holds the entail on Longbourn, arrives at the Bennet household with the uncomfortable duty of assessing his distant cousins as potential wives, he brings with him generations of resentment rooted in a long-ago injustice between their families. What begins as a duty call shadowed by generations of family grievance becomes an unexpected love match.
Seven Days in Northamptonshire by Lucy Marin
When a week at a Northamptonshire country house throws Elizabeth and Darcy together in the aftermath of his disastrous proposal, a rusted garden gate and seven days of forced proximity may accomplish what months of misunderstanding could not.
Clutter and Concealment by Nan Harrison
After a sleepless night following his disastrous proposal at Hunsford, Darcy delivers his letter to Elizabeth and impulsively follows her into Mr Collins's dilapidated garden shed, where the two are accidentally locked in by Collins himself and forced into the first honest conversation of their acquaintance.
Not in Vain by Mary Smythe
When Wickham leaps half-dressed from a window and leaves Lydia Bennet to face the consequences alone, the youngest Bennet sister must navigate ruin, banishment, and an arranged marriage to a man she never met, all while watching her own careless actions destroy her sister's chance at happiness.
What happens when there is nowhere left to retreat?
Certain Evils by Amy D’Orazio
After Elizabeth Bennet hurls Darcy’s letter into an old well, she curses him, wishing that ‘certain evils’—the epithet he applied to her dear sister—would be rained down upon him. Alas, over the next weeks, Darcy is forced to bear one misfortune after the next while Elizabeth is left to uncomfortably wonder if it is all her fault. Forced to share a roof with the man she so misjudged, Elizabeth must reckon with the inconvenient truth that the only curse she ever truly cast was the one she placed on her own ability to see him clearly.
Building Bridges by Ali Scott
When Elizabeth travels to Derbyshire with her uncle and aunt, she sees Mr Darcy have a terrible riding accident. Rushing to his aid, she is given an opportunity to rebuild their acquaintance anew. With every day spent in Mr Darcy’s company, Elizabeth realises that he is a man she could easily lose her heart to—but has she missed her chance?
Tempest by Frances Reynolds
When a violent storm traps Mr Darcy at the parsonage in the wake of Elizabeth's stinging refusal, the enforced proximity strips away the pride and prejudice that have kept them at odds, and two people who have thoroughly misread each other are at last compelled to speak plainly. Can a single afternoon of hard-won honesty lay the foundation for the love neither of them saw coming?
A Tax on His Forbearance by Jan Ashton
A storm and a bout of mushroom-fuelled illness strand Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet overnight in the Meryton home of her aunt and uncle Philips, where an evening of unexpectedly intimate conversation by firelight, conducted in nightclothes and candlelight, dissolves their mutual prejudices and sets them on the path to courtship.
A Just and Tender Spirit by Julie Cooper
When Mr Darcy, the humble but brooding vicar who holds the entail on Longbourn, arrives at the Bennet household with the uncomfortable duty of assessing his distant cousins as potential wives, he brings with him generations of resentment rooted in a long-ago injustice between their families. What begins as a duty call shadowed by generations of family grievance becomes an unexpected love match.
Seven Days in Northamptonshire by Lucy Marin
When a week at a Northamptonshire country house throws Elizabeth and Darcy together in the aftermath of his disastrous proposal, a rusted garden gate and seven days of forced proximity may accomplish what months of misunderstanding could not.
Clutter and Concealment by Nan Harrison
After a sleepless night following his disastrous proposal at Hunsford, Darcy delivers his letter to Elizabeth and impulsively follows her into Mr Collins's dilapidated garden shed, where the two are accidentally locked in by Collins himself and forced into the first honest conversation of their acquaintance.
Not in Vain by Mary Smythe
When Wickham leaps half-dressed from a window and leaves Lydia Bennet to face the consequences alone, the youngest Bennet sister must navigate ruin, banishment, and an arranged marriage to a man she never met, all while watching her own careless actions destroy her sister's chance at happiness.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2026
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Review of advance copy received from Publisher
There are a seemingly limitless number of ways to throw Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy together such that neither can escape the presence of the other. That's the theme eight talented JAFF authors explore in these clever not-quite-novella-length stories. All begin after Elizabeth stayed at Netherfield for several days to nurse her sister, and most occur after the (in)famous proposal, refusal, and letter.
The methods employed to force proximity between the two run the gamut from serious to silly.
An injured Mr. Darcy is discovered by Elizabeth and the Gardiners during a multi-day downpour of rain, leading to an extended stay at a less-than-comfortable Derbyshire inn. In another, Mr. Darcy's godfather is good friends with Mr. Bennet, who brings Elizabeth along for a week-long visit, the timing of which happens to coincide with Mr. Darcy and his sister having arrived there for a stay. The most humorous tale, this one in Hunsford, has Elizabeth so discomfited immediately after reading Mr. Darcy's letter that she ducks into a dilapidated garden shed to avoid him at the parsonage. Unfortunately for her, he spots her and excuses himself to follow her to her hiding place, but then the oblivious Mr. Collins strolls by and locks the door. Their subsequent conversation suffers frequent interruptions as they bump into the various garden implements surrounding them.
My favorite stories in this collection show particularly stellar creativity. Mary Smythe's "Not in Vain" follows Lydia Bennet's point of view, starting in London as Mr. Darcy bursts in upon her and her dear Wickham (who escapes out the window). Upon reuniting with her family, she truly does not understand why they're making such a fuss. And she sees that Elizabeth and Darcy clearly have a thing for one another, so why does neither of them DO anything about it? Once she's safely married, Lydia decides she'll fix things herself.
"A Just and Tender Spirit" by Julie Cooper is the creme de la creme that concludes this short story octet with an inspired switcheroo. Mr. Darcy - yes, the same haughty, superior man from canon - has the living at Hunsford and is the cousin who will inherit Longbourn thanks to the entail. Mr. Collins - the usual foolish dolt - is the rich friend staying with Mr. Bingley. How do you think THAT goes?!?
Content is clean.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review
The methods employed to force proximity between the two run the gamut from serious to silly.
An injured Mr. Darcy is discovered by Elizabeth and the Gardiners during a multi-day downpour of rain, leading to an extended stay at a less-than-comfortable Derbyshire inn. In another, Mr. Darcy's godfather is good friends with Mr. Bennet, who brings Elizabeth along for a week-long visit, the timing of which happens to coincide with Mr. Darcy and his sister having arrived there for a stay. The most humorous tale, this one in Hunsford, has Elizabeth so discomfited immediately after reading Mr. Darcy's letter that she ducks into a dilapidated garden shed to avoid him at the parsonage. Unfortunately for her, he spots her and excuses himself to follow her to her hiding place, but then the oblivious Mr. Collins strolls by and locks the door. Their subsequent conversation suffers frequent interruptions as they bump into the various garden implements surrounding them.
My favorite stories in this collection show particularly stellar creativity. Mary Smythe's "Not in Vain" follows Lydia Bennet's point of view, starting in London as Mr. Darcy bursts in upon her and her dear Wickham (who escapes out the window). Upon reuniting with her family, she truly does not understand why they're making such a fuss. And she sees that Elizabeth and Darcy clearly have a thing for one another, so why does neither of them DO anything about it? Once she's safely married, Lydia decides she'll fix things herself.
"A Just and Tender Spirit" by Julie Cooper is the creme de la creme that concludes this short story octet with an inspired switcheroo. Mr. Darcy - yes, the same haughty, superior man from canon - has the living at Hunsford and is the cousin who will inherit Longbourn thanks to the entail. Mr. Collins - the usual foolish dolt - is the rich friend staying with Mr. Bingley. How do you think THAT goes?!?
Content is clean.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review
July 30, 2026
Usually with an anthology there are strong stories and other stories. This anthology has all bangers and no duds. It's very good.
July 27, 2026
An excellent anthology of stories by some of the best authors in the genre
This was a universally charming book from start to finish. Each author clearly understood their brief and wrote stories which were well constructed with fully rounded characters and no extraneous detail. In these collections it is always difficult to pick a favourite but perhaps if pushed I would plump for Jan Ashton's offering, A Tax on HIs Forbearance, as I very much appreciated the rare writing of a sympathetic Aunt Phillips.
Definitely one to recommend.
This was a universally charming book from start to finish. Each author clearly understood their brief and wrote stories which were well constructed with fully rounded characters and no extraneous detail. In these collections it is always difficult to pick a favourite but perhaps if pushed I would plump for Jan Ashton's offering, A Tax on HIs Forbearance, as I very much appreciated the rare writing of a sympathetic Aunt Phillips.
Definitely one to recommend.
July 29, 2026
Tell me a fact, and I’ll learn. Tell me a truth, and I’ll believe. But tell me a story, and it will live in my heart forever. — Ed Sabol
A bevy of favorite storytellers.
A plethora of well-told stories.
A profusion of happy endings
I loved this book!
The greatest art in the world is the art of storytelling. — Cecil B. DeMille
A bevy of favorite storytellers.
A plethora of well-told stories.
A profusion of happy endings
I loved this book!
The greatest art in the world is the art of storytelling. — Cecil B. DeMille
July 30, 2026
The perils of proximity is a collection of short stories by eight well-known JAFF authors.
TEMPEST by Frances Reynolds
After Elizabeth rejects his proposal of marriage Darcy is about to leave the parsonage when the storm makes his escape impossible. Will they, while they are stuck together, be able to clear their misunderstandings and reach a more satisfying conclusion?
I really like that, due to the weather, Darcy and Elizabeth can’t escape and need to talk about the proposal and clear their misunderstandings. This gives them the basics for a better understanding of one another and a new beginning.
A TAX ON HIS FORBEARANCE by Jan Ashton
Shortly before the Netherfield Ball Darcy returns to Netherfield after seeing to business in town. He is denied entry because an illness has afflicted Netherfield and the neighbouring estates. As the inn is already occupied Darcy is invited to stay with the Philips and discovers that Elizabeth has also found refuge there. Will Darcy’s feelings for Elizabeth become the better of him and let him declare himself?
Oh I liked the aunt and uncle Philips in this story. They were such nice people. And I was so glad that Darcy did see it too, even if it took him a little to acknowledge that they are loving and caring relatives of Elizabeth. And I loved Darcy and Elizabeth’s opportunity to talk to one another and discover that the other may be the person you never want to part with.
CERTAIN EVILS by Amy D’Orazio
After reading parts of Darcy’s letter of explanation Elizabeth is furious. How dare he insult her sister. In a fit of anger she tosses the letter in a well with wishes that certain evils may be brought down on him. A short time later Elizabeth discovers that her wishes may have come true, the gentleman needs to stay in the parsonage because he unexpectedly broke his leg and is not to be moved. In the course of the next days more calamities befall Darcy like Elizabeth had cursed him with her wishes. She, on her part, discovers that she may have misjudged him and soon wishes for all the misfortunes to stop. Will she be able to bring back joy in his life?
Poor Darcy, he suffers many misfortunes in this story. I like that Elizabeth, although she initially wanted him to suffer, soon discovers that she does not want him to experience all these dreadful things. I like that she spends time with him and gets to know him better and that she also sees how he handles crises. I was so glad that she actively searches for a way to end his suffering and that she is, in the end, successful.
BUILDING BRIDGES by Ali Scott
Elizabeth and her uncle and aunt Gardiner are visiting Derbyshire when flooding causes them to interrupt their journey at an Inn. Shortly before they have found an injured horseman on the road and have taken him with them - the wounded rider is none other than Mr Darcy. Forced to stay in the village due to the weather Darcy and Elizabeth spent much time together and Elizabeth sees how altered he is since their last encounter in Kent. Will Darcy be able to show her that he has taken her reprimands to heart and that he still loves her?
I really loved that Elizabeth needed to care for Darcy and that they, due to his recovery and the bad weather, are able to spend time with one another. This gives Elizabeth the opportunity to see his changed behaviour and him to show it to her. Elizabeth can also see a different side of Darcy when he is able to secure better accommodations with people he knows. I like the side Elizabeth gets to see very much.
NOT IN VAIN by Mary Smythe
When Elizabeth receives Jane's letter in Lambton she is sure that she will never see Darcy again. Subdued, she returns to London with her aunt and uncle to be of help when Lydia is retrieved. Therefore she is again in Darcy’s company but both seem to be unable to overcome the changes caused by Lydia’s thoughtless actions. A fit of anger and the accusation that her actions have cost Elizabeth her happiness let Lydia finally see that her sister is in love with Darcy. As the two seem unable to make amends Lydia and her new husband, Mr Stone, take matters in hand. Will they be able to reconcile the two lovers?
This story was a bit sad because both Elizabeth and Darcy have no hope of ever being together. I like that Lydia takes it in hand to reunite them - after all it was she who was responsible for their separation. I loved Lydia for her idea but I can totally comprehend that Elizabeth despaired first. Until she comprehended that her actions were responsible for Elizabeth’s misery she was so selfish.
CLUTTER AND CONCEALMENT by Nan Harrison
After she receives his letter Elizabeth returns to the parsonage - only to see that Darcy is waiting for her in the parlor. Elizabeth is not ready to face him again and therefore decides to hide in Mr Collin’s garden shed until he is gone. Unfortunately Darcy sees her hiding and decides to look after her. Will they, without the company of the others, be able to overcome the accusations of the previous afternoon and read a better understanding of one another?
Darcy and Elizabeth in earnest conversation among Mr Collins’ garden tools without the opportunity to move because moving could become dangerous due to the instability of the building - I really like the idea. Darcy and Elizabeth have certainly no way to escape and no other occupation than to talk.
SEVEN DAYS IN NOTHAMPTENSHIRE by Lucy Marin
Immediately after she rejected Darcy in Kent Elizabeth and her father travel to his old friend in Northamptonshire because the two men want to talk about Earl's newly acquired book. But instead of sitting with the men Elizabeth discovers that she is not the only uninterested guest, the Earl’s godson and his sister are also there, Mr and Miss Darcy of Pemberley. Elizabeth first thinks that this may be the longest seven days of her life but soon she begins to discover that she may have judged Darcy wrong all the time and she begins to enjoy spending time with him. Will they be able to come to love each other despite Elizabeth’s harsh rejection only some days prior?
I really love that Darcy and Elizabeth are forced together so shortly after Darcy’s proposal and that they need to behave civilly because they are in company. I like that Elizabeth can see Darcy interact with his sister and his godfather and that she also got their accounts of his kindness and loyalty and that she his therefore able to form a different picture of him
A JUST AND SOUND SPIRIT by Julie Cooper
Vicar Darcy and his cousin, Mr Bennet, are not on good terms because Darcy will inherit Mr Bennet's estate after the latter's death. Now Vicar Darcy has written to his cousin and intends to visit him with the extended aim of probably finding a wife among his daughters. When Elizabeth sees Jane's fear of being forced to consider him despite being in love with another man, she decides to try to redirect his attention to her. When Darcy arrives her interest is immediately peaked and Darcy is equally captivated. Will the two be able to form a union or will the entail and the past stand in their way?
I had not formerly imagined Darcy as a vicar but after this story I am able to do it. And it worked well. I really liked the relationship they formed and that they were able to talk about everything. It was a really unique story.
If you like to read eight different short stories with Darcy and Elizabeth in situations where they are forced to solve their differences without running away, you should definitely read this excellent collection.
I highly recommend it.
TEMPEST by Frances Reynolds
After Elizabeth rejects his proposal of marriage Darcy is about to leave the parsonage when the storm makes his escape impossible. Will they, while they are stuck together, be able to clear their misunderstandings and reach a more satisfying conclusion?
I really like that, due to the weather, Darcy and Elizabeth can’t escape and need to talk about the proposal and clear their misunderstandings. This gives them the basics for a better understanding of one another and a new beginning.
A TAX ON HIS FORBEARANCE by Jan Ashton
Shortly before the Netherfield Ball Darcy returns to Netherfield after seeing to business in town. He is denied entry because an illness has afflicted Netherfield and the neighbouring estates. As the inn is already occupied Darcy is invited to stay with the Philips and discovers that Elizabeth has also found refuge there. Will Darcy’s feelings for Elizabeth become the better of him and let him declare himself?
Oh I liked the aunt and uncle Philips in this story. They were such nice people. And I was so glad that Darcy did see it too, even if it took him a little to acknowledge that they are loving and caring relatives of Elizabeth. And I loved Darcy and Elizabeth’s opportunity to talk to one another and discover that the other may be the person you never want to part with.
CERTAIN EVILS by Amy D’Orazio
After reading parts of Darcy’s letter of explanation Elizabeth is furious. How dare he insult her sister. In a fit of anger she tosses the letter in a well with wishes that certain evils may be brought down on him. A short time later Elizabeth discovers that her wishes may have come true, the gentleman needs to stay in the parsonage because he unexpectedly broke his leg and is not to be moved. In the course of the next days more calamities befall Darcy like Elizabeth had cursed him with her wishes. She, on her part, discovers that she may have misjudged him and soon wishes for all the misfortunes to stop. Will she be able to bring back joy in his life?
Poor Darcy, he suffers many misfortunes in this story. I like that Elizabeth, although she initially wanted him to suffer, soon discovers that she does not want him to experience all these dreadful things. I like that she spends time with him and gets to know him better and that she also sees how he handles crises. I was so glad that she actively searches for a way to end his suffering and that she is, in the end, successful.
BUILDING BRIDGES by Ali Scott
Elizabeth and her uncle and aunt Gardiner are visiting Derbyshire when flooding causes them to interrupt their journey at an Inn. Shortly before they have found an injured horseman on the road and have taken him with them - the wounded rider is none other than Mr Darcy. Forced to stay in the village due to the weather Darcy and Elizabeth spent much time together and Elizabeth sees how altered he is since their last encounter in Kent. Will Darcy be able to show her that he has taken her reprimands to heart and that he still loves her?
I really loved that Elizabeth needed to care for Darcy and that they, due to his recovery and the bad weather, are able to spend time with one another. This gives Elizabeth the opportunity to see his changed behaviour and him to show it to her. Elizabeth can also see a different side of Darcy when he is able to secure better accommodations with people he knows. I like the side Elizabeth gets to see very much.
NOT IN VAIN by Mary Smythe
When Elizabeth receives Jane's letter in Lambton she is sure that she will never see Darcy again. Subdued, she returns to London with her aunt and uncle to be of help when Lydia is retrieved. Therefore she is again in Darcy’s company but both seem to be unable to overcome the changes caused by Lydia’s thoughtless actions. A fit of anger and the accusation that her actions have cost Elizabeth her happiness let Lydia finally see that her sister is in love with Darcy. As the two seem unable to make amends Lydia and her new husband, Mr Stone, take matters in hand. Will they be able to reconcile the two lovers?
This story was a bit sad because both Elizabeth and Darcy have no hope of ever being together. I like that Lydia takes it in hand to reunite them - after all it was she who was responsible for their separation. I loved Lydia for her idea but I can totally comprehend that Elizabeth despaired first. Until she comprehended that her actions were responsible for Elizabeth’s misery she was so selfish.
CLUTTER AND CONCEALMENT by Nan Harrison
After she receives his letter Elizabeth returns to the parsonage - only to see that Darcy is waiting for her in the parlor. Elizabeth is not ready to face him again and therefore decides to hide in Mr Collin’s garden shed until he is gone. Unfortunately Darcy sees her hiding and decides to look after her. Will they, without the company of the others, be able to overcome the accusations of the previous afternoon and read a better understanding of one another?
Darcy and Elizabeth in earnest conversation among Mr Collins’ garden tools without the opportunity to move because moving could become dangerous due to the instability of the building - I really like the idea. Darcy and Elizabeth have certainly no way to escape and no other occupation than to talk.
SEVEN DAYS IN NOTHAMPTENSHIRE by Lucy Marin
Immediately after she rejected Darcy in Kent Elizabeth and her father travel to his old friend in Northamptonshire because the two men want to talk about Earl's newly acquired book. But instead of sitting with the men Elizabeth discovers that she is not the only uninterested guest, the Earl’s godson and his sister are also there, Mr and Miss Darcy of Pemberley. Elizabeth first thinks that this may be the longest seven days of her life but soon she begins to discover that she may have judged Darcy wrong all the time and she begins to enjoy spending time with him. Will they be able to come to love each other despite Elizabeth’s harsh rejection only some days prior?
I really love that Darcy and Elizabeth are forced together so shortly after Darcy’s proposal and that they need to behave civilly because they are in company. I like that Elizabeth can see Darcy interact with his sister and his godfather and that she also got their accounts of his kindness and loyalty and that she his therefore able to form a different picture of him
A JUST AND SOUND SPIRIT by Julie Cooper
Vicar Darcy and his cousin, Mr Bennet, are not on good terms because Darcy will inherit Mr Bennet's estate after the latter's death. Now Vicar Darcy has written to his cousin and intends to visit him with the extended aim of probably finding a wife among his daughters. When Elizabeth sees Jane's fear of being forced to consider him despite being in love with another man, she decides to try to redirect his attention to her. When Darcy arrives her interest is immediately peaked and Darcy is equally captivated. Will the two be able to form a union or will the entail and the past stand in their way?
I had not formerly imagined Darcy as a vicar but after this story I am able to do it. And it worked well. I really liked the relationship they formed and that they were able to talk about everything. It was a really unique story.
If you like to read eight different short stories with Darcy and Elizabeth in situations where they are forced to solve their differences without running away, you should definitely read this excellent collection.
I highly recommend it.
August 17, 2026
Fabulous!
This is a truly superb collection of short stories, JAFF variations, by eight wonderful authors. The premises and tweaks to the original P&P are original and imaginative. The romance is lovely and satisfying. I only wish each of these creations from such talented writers had been longer. The stories are all well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
This is a truly superb collection of short stories, JAFF variations, by eight wonderful authors. The premises and tweaks to the original P&P are original and imaginative. The romance is lovely and satisfying. I only wish each of these creations from such talented writers had been longer. The stories are all well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
September 26, 2026
One of my favourite tropes! All of the short stories were very entertaining how the challenge was interpreted!
August 3, 2026
The 1 star is for the 1st story ... the last one though... i returned 2 times to the 1st paragraph to see if i read it correctly... yeap ... Darcy was Mr Collins ... nope just absolutely no!!! What in the parallel universe type of Pride and Prejudice was that?! I swear some of these authors just should give up...
August 24, 2026
Status: Read August 21-23, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (2.5)
Review:
Tempest by Frances Reynolds ⭐⭐
A Tax on His Forbearance by Jan Ashton ⭐⭐⭐
Certain Evils by Amy D’Orazio ⭐⭐
Building Bridges by Ali Scott ⭐⭐⭐ (2.5)
Not in Vain by Mary Smythe ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)
Clutter and Concealment by Nan Harrison ⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)
Seven Days in Northamptonshire by Lucy Marin ⭐⭐ (1.5)
A Just and Tender Spirit by Julie Cooper ⭐⭐⭐
+ The Professions of a Lover by Amy D'Orazio ⭐⭐
(A Bonus Short Story to The Perils of Proximity Anthology)
Edition Read:
The Perils of Proximity
by Ali Scott, Amy D’Orazio, Frances Reynolds, Jan Ashton, Julie Cooper, Lucy Marin, Mary Smythe, Nan Harrison
Kindle Edition, 382 pages
Published July 27, 2026 by Quills & Quartos Publishing (first published July 24, 2026)
ASIN: B0GZ6B4CQG / ISBN13: 978-1967030798
[ kindle unlimited ]
Eight authors of Pride and Prejudice variations imagine Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet pushed into uncomfortably close quarters, by storms and sickrooms, by garden sheds and curses, by the cruel and convenient hand of fate.
A thrown letter at the bottom of a well unleashes consequences no one could have foreseen. A riding accident leaves Mr Darcy at the mercy of the very family he had been at such pains to avoid. A summer storm strands him at the parsonage with the woman who has just refused his hand. A locked garden shed becomes the unlikely scene of an even more unlikely conversation. A fortnight at a country house party offers a second chance at the words he wishes he had never spoken.
From quiet reconciliations over a cooling cup of tea to comic disasters involving mushrooms of an inadvisable variety, from a Lydia Bennet at her most reformable to a Darcy who is anything but a gentleman of leisure, The Perils of Proximity answers one irresistible question: what happens for Darcy and Elizabeth when there is nothing left to do but fall in love?
Library Notes:
The Professions of a Lover: A Pride & Prejudice Variation (A Bonus Short Story to The Perils of Proximity Anthology)
by Amy D'Orazio
ebook, 20 pages
Published July 21, 2026 by Quills & Quartos Publishing
[ kindle doc – bookfunnel ] [ edition not in GR database ]
__________
Anthology Short Story Descriptions:
Tempest by Frances Reynolds
When a violent storm traps Mr Darcy at the parsonage in the wake of Elizabeth's stinging refusal, the enforced proximity strips away the pride and prejudice that have kept them at odds, and two people who have thoroughly misread each other are at last compelled to speak plainly. Can a single afternoon of hard-won honesty lay the foundation for the love neither of them saw coming?
A Tax on His Forbearance by Jan Ashton
A storm and a bout of mushroom-fuelled illness strand Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet overnight in the Meryton home of her aunt and uncle Philips, where an evening of unexpectedly intimate conversation by firelight, conducted in nightclothes and candlelight, dissolves their mutual prejudices and sets them on the path to courtship.
Certain Evils by Amy D’Orazio
After Elizabeth Bennet hurls Darcy’s letter into an old well, she curses him, wishing that ‘certain evils’—the epithet he applied to her dear sister—would be rained down upon him. Alas, over the next weeks, Darcy is forced to bear one misfortune after the next while Elizabeth is left to uncomfortably wonder if it is all her fault. Forced to share a roof with the man she so misjudged, Elizabeth must reckon with the inconvenient truth that the only curse she ever truly cast was the one she placed on her own ability to see him clearly.
Building Bridges by Ali Scott
When Elizabeth travels to Derbyshire with her uncle and aunt, she sees Mr Darcy have a terrible riding accident. Rushing to his aid, she is given an opportunity to rebuild their acquaintance anew. With every day spent in Mr Darcy’s company, Elizabeth realises that he is a man she could easily lose her heart to—but has she missed her chance?
Not in Vain by Mary Smythe
When Wickham leaps half-dressed from a window and leaves Lydia Bennet to face the consequences alone, the youngest Bennet sister must navigate ruin, banishment, and an arranged marriage to a man she never met, all while watching her own careless actions destroy her sister's chance at happiness.
Clutter and Concealment by Nan Harrison
After a sleepless night following his disastrous proposal at Hunsford, Darcy delivers his letter to Elizabeth and impulsively follows her into Mr Collins's dilapidated garden shed, where the two are accidentally locked in by Collins himself and forced into the first honest conversation of their acquaintance.
Seven Days in Northamptonshire by Lucy Marin
When a week at a Northamptonshire country house throws Elizabeth and Darcy together in the aftermath of his disastrous proposal, a rusted garden gate and seven days of forced proximity may accomplish what months of misunderstanding could not.
A Just and Tender Spirit by Julie Cooper
When Mr Darcy, the humble but brooding vicar who holds the entail on Longbourn, arrives at the Bennet household with the uncomfortable duty of assessing his distant cousins as potential wives, he brings with him generations of resentment rooted in a long-ago injustice between their families. What begins as a duty call shadowed by generations of family grievance becomes an unexpected love match.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (2.5)
Review:
Tempest by Frances Reynolds ⭐⭐
A Tax on His Forbearance by Jan Ashton ⭐⭐⭐
Certain Evils by Amy D’Orazio ⭐⭐
Building Bridges by Ali Scott ⭐⭐⭐ (2.5)
Not in Vain by Mary Smythe ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)
Clutter and Concealment by Nan Harrison ⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)
Seven Days in Northamptonshire by Lucy Marin ⭐⭐ (1.5)
A Just and Tender Spirit by Julie Cooper ⭐⭐⭐
+ The Professions of a Lover by Amy D'Orazio ⭐⭐
(A Bonus Short Story to The Perils of Proximity Anthology)
Edition Read:
The Perils of Proximity
by Ali Scott, Amy D’Orazio, Frances Reynolds, Jan Ashton, Julie Cooper, Lucy Marin, Mary Smythe, Nan Harrison
Kindle Edition, 382 pages
Published July 27, 2026 by Quills & Quartos Publishing (first published July 24, 2026)
ASIN: B0GZ6B4CQG / ISBN13: 978-1967030798
[ kindle unlimited ]
Eight authors of Pride and Prejudice variations imagine Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet pushed into uncomfortably close quarters, by storms and sickrooms, by garden sheds and curses, by the cruel and convenient hand of fate.
A thrown letter at the bottom of a well unleashes consequences no one could have foreseen. A riding accident leaves Mr Darcy at the mercy of the very family he had been at such pains to avoid. A summer storm strands him at the parsonage with the woman who has just refused his hand. A locked garden shed becomes the unlikely scene of an even more unlikely conversation. A fortnight at a country house party offers a second chance at the words he wishes he had never spoken.
From quiet reconciliations over a cooling cup of tea to comic disasters involving mushrooms of an inadvisable variety, from a Lydia Bennet at her most reformable to a Darcy who is anything but a gentleman of leisure, The Perils of Proximity answers one irresistible question: what happens for Darcy and Elizabeth when there is nothing left to do but fall in love?
Library Notes:
The Professions of a Lover: A Pride & Prejudice Variation (A Bonus Short Story to The Perils of Proximity Anthology)
by Amy D'Orazio
ebook, 20 pages
Published July 21, 2026 by Quills & Quartos Publishing
[ kindle doc – bookfunnel ] [ edition not in GR database ]
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Anthology Short Story Descriptions:
Tempest by Frances Reynolds
When a violent storm traps Mr Darcy at the parsonage in the wake of Elizabeth's stinging refusal, the enforced proximity strips away the pride and prejudice that have kept them at odds, and two people who have thoroughly misread each other are at last compelled to speak plainly. Can a single afternoon of hard-won honesty lay the foundation for the love neither of them saw coming?
A Tax on His Forbearance by Jan Ashton
A storm and a bout of mushroom-fuelled illness strand Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet overnight in the Meryton home of her aunt and uncle Philips, where an evening of unexpectedly intimate conversation by firelight, conducted in nightclothes and candlelight, dissolves their mutual prejudices and sets them on the path to courtship.
Certain Evils by Amy D’Orazio
After Elizabeth Bennet hurls Darcy’s letter into an old well, she curses him, wishing that ‘certain evils’—the epithet he applied to her dear sister—would be rained down upon him. Alas, over the next weeks, Darcy is forced to bear one misfortune after the next while Elizabeth is left to uncomfortably wonder if it is all her fault. Forced to share a roof with the man she so misjudged, Elizabeth must reckon with the inconvenient truth that the only curse she ever truly cast was the one she placed on her own ability to see him clearly.
Building Bridges by Ali Scott
When Elizabeth travels to Derbyshire with her uncle and aunt, she sees Mr Darcy have a terrible riding accident. Rushing to his aid, she is given an opportunity to rebuild their acquaintance anew. With every day spent in Mr Darcy’s company, Elizabeth realises that he is a man she could easily lose her heart to—but has she missed her chance?
Not in Vain by Mary Smythe
When Wickham leaps half-dressed from a window and leaves Lydia Bennet to face the consequences alone, the youngest Bennet sister must navigate ruin, banishment, and an arranged marriage to a man she never met, all while watching her own careless actions destroy her sister's chance at happiness.
Clutter and Concealment by Nan Harrison
After a sleepless night following his disastrous proposal at Hunsford, Darcy delivers his letter to Elizabeth and impulsively follows her into Mr Collins's dilapidated garden shed, where the two are accidentally locked in by Collins himself and forced into the first honest conversation of their acquaintance.
Seven Days in Northamptonshire by Lucy Marin
When a week at a Northamptonshire country house throws Elizabeth and Darcy together in the aftermath of his disastrous proposal, a rusted garden gate and seven days of forced proximity may accomplish what months of misunderstanding could not.
A Just and Tender Spirit by Julie Cooper
When Mr Darcy, the humble but brooding vicar who holds the entail on Longbourn, arrives at the Bennet household with the uncomfortable duty of assessing his distant cousins as potential wives, he brings with him generations of resentment rooted in a long-ago injustice between their families. What begins as a duty call shadowed by generations of family grievance becomes an unexpected love match.
August 2, 2026
Eight different opportunities for conversation through forced proximity, or otherwise. Some of the best authors of JAFF set their creative minds to these short stories or novelettes, which lead to a quicker HEA for Darcy and Elizabeth. There seems to be no shortage of ways to reach the same outcome. My favorite was The Tempest, by Frances Reynolds.
The guy on the cover looks more like Bingley. Overall, 4.2 stars
The guy on the cover looks more like Bingley. Overall, 4.2 stars
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What a cute collection of forced proximity stories where Elizabeth and Darcy are the stars! Because of their bite-sized nature, ODC remain front-and-center. There is something special to love in each mini variation by a talented collection of authors.
Tempest by Francis Reynolds
"Never before had silence been so intolerable. Their earlier words seemed to hang in the air like smoke, dark and choking."
A second chance for ODC when a thunderstorm forces them together after the dreaded Hunsford proposal. The opportunity for communication was perfectly done and I loved seeing how a fresh perspective could bring E&D into a better understanding quickly.
A Tax on His Forebearance by Jan Ashton
“You, Elizabeth Bennet, are lovely, intelligent, and spirited beyond any woman I have ever known—and you have, quite against my will, compelled my affections.”
A bout of sickness forces E&D out of their respective houses and into the hospitality of the Phillips. Darcy is forced to see things through new eyes and a sweet moment of impropriety brings feelings forward. I enjoyed the quiet conversation and tender thoughts shared by ODC in this variation.
Certain Evils by Amy D'Orazio
"She had brought him the deepest misery, and it was an undeniable satisfaction to have brought him, instead, to such joy."
Elizabeth's impulsive action may have brought calamity on Mr Darcy and she must work hard to bring about resolution while reflecting on the way she never understood him. This variation is unique with a touch of the supernatural (or coincidence- you decide) and this time I enjoyed Elizabeth's greater reflection and reversal of feelings.
Building Bridges by Ali Scott
"It was as though she were on a bridge between her former life and her future; ahead lay the possibility of great happiness, if only she were brave enough to take the first step."
Elizabeth and the Gardiners encounter Darcy after an accident on their trip to Derbyshire. Possibly the swooniest of the variations as Elizabeth helps to nurse Mr Darcy back to health and he lets her see parts of his life that reveal his true character. The waterfall scene... perfection.
Not in Vain by Mary Smythe
“...I will accept your admission that my way of getting husbands is not so bad after all.”
Told primarily from Lydia's perspective after a foiled elopement with Wickham, she finds out the cost of her perfidy and that she wasn't the only one to lose a beau. Lydia's way of making amends was quite funny as she watched ODC pine for one another. I enjoyed this little twist on the fallout.
Clutter and Concealment by Nan Harrison
"I want a true partner in life, to plan and dream together; to succeed or fail together…”
Mr Darcy takes a chance before exiting Hunsford to find out how Elizabeth took the contents of his letter. This was the funniest variation and had me laughing out loud several times. I really loved seeing Darcy rise above his hurt to reveal his true character. The circumstances of this forced confinement were an absolute romp and delight.
Seven Days in Northhamptonshire by Lucy Marin
"...what exactly was her connexion to him? And why did it feel like it had completely altered after their recent conversation?"
Another coincidental meeting brings ODC together after the dreaded Hunsford Proposal. When circumstances leave them largely to their own devices, true courting begins and they are able to see one another with fresh eyes. I loved the parallel do-overs from Kent to Northhamptonshire and their equal desire to set things right.
A Just and Tender Spirit by Julie Cooper
"...Elizabeth could never have guessed just how passionate and exciting a man of the cloth could be."
Truly unique! Darcy and Collins have a role reversal and when Darcy writes to his cousin to let him know to expect him at Longbourn to consider one of his daughters for a bride, he was unprepared for the jewel that is the second Bennet daughter. This was a fun and lovely way for ODC to come together without wealth and arrogance interfering, and their courtship was absolutely adorable.
Thank you to Quills and Quartos for my copy of this anthology. All thoughts contained here are my own honest opinions.
Tempest by Francis Reynolds
"Never before had silence been so intolerable. Their earlier words seemed to hang in the air like smoke, dark and choking."
A second chance for ODC when a thunderstorm forces them together after the dreaded Hunsford proposal. The opportunity for communication was perfectly done and I loved seeing how a fresh perspective could bring E&D into a better understanding quickly.
A Tax on His Forebearance by Jan Ashton
“You, Elizabeth Bennet, are lovely, intelligent, and spirited beyond any woman I have ever known—and you have, quite against my will, compelled my affections.”
A bout of sickness forces E&D out of their respective houses and into the hospitality of the Phillips. Darcy is forced to see things through new eyes and a sweet moment of impropriety brings feelings forward. I enjoyed the quiet conversation and tender thoughts shared by ODC in this variation.
Certain Evils by Amy D'Orazio
"She had brought him the deepest misery, and it was an undeniable satisfaction to have brought him, instead, to such joy."
Elizabeth's impulsive action may have brought calamity on Mr Darcy and she must work hard to bring about resolution while reflecting on the way she never understood him. This variation is unique with a touch of the supernatural (or coincidence- you decide) and this time I enjoyed Elizabeth's greater reflection and reversal of feelings.
Building Bridges by Ali Scott
"It was as though she were on a bridge between her former life and her future; ahead lay the possibility of great happiness, if only she were brave enough to take the first step."
Elizabeth and the Gardiners encounter Darcy after an accident on their trip to Derbyshire. Possibly the swooniest of the variations as Elizabeth helps to nurse Mr Darcy back to health and he lets her see parts of his life that reveal his true character. The waterfall scene... perfection.
Not in Vain by Mary Smythe
“...I will accept your admission that my way of getting husbands is not so bad after all.”
Told primarily from Lydia's perspective after a foiled elopement with Wickham, she finds out the cost of her perfidy and that she wasn't the only one to lose a beau. Lydia's way of making amends was quite funny as she watched ODC pine for one another. I enjoyed this little twist on the fallout.
Clutter and Concealment by Nan Harrison
"I want a true partner in life, to plan and dream together; to succeed or fail together…”
Mr Darcy takes a chance before exiting Hunsford to find out how Elizabeth took the contents of his letter. This was the funniest variation and had me laughing out loud several times. I really loved seeing Darcy rise above his hurt to reveal his true character. The circumstances of this forced confinement were an absolute romp and delight.
Seven Days in Northhamptonshire by Lucy Marin
"...what exactly was her connexion to him? And why did it feel like it had completely altered after their recent conversation?"
Another coincidental meeting brings ODC together after the dreaded Hunsford Proposal. When circumstances leave them largely to their own devices, true courting begins and they are able to see one another with fresh eyes. I loved the parallel do-overs from Kent to Northhamptonshire and their equal desire to set things right.
A Just and Tender Spirit by Julie Cooper
"...Elizabeth could never have guessed just how passionate and exciting a man of the cloth could be."
Truly unique! Darcy and Collins have a role reversal and when Darcy writes to his cousin to let him know to expect him at Longbourn to consider one of his daughters for a bride, he was unprepared for the jewel that is the second Bennet daughter. This was a fun and lovely way for ODC to come together without wealth and arrogance interfering, and their courtship was absolutely adorable.
Thank you to Quills and Quartos for my copy of this anthology. All thoughts contained here are my own honest opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
My Rating: 4.5* rounded up to 5*
Another wonderful collection of short stories that hit the mark! There were a few that really sparked joy for me!
Tempest by Frances Reynolds:
“She would think of Jane later, weep for her sister’s lost happiness at some other hour. First, she must endure this trial of being trapped with the cause of it for as long as the rain lasted.” (quote from the book)
A refusal, a thunderstorm and quiet civility with tea.
A Tax on his Forbearance by Jan Ashton:
“Well, if this is the result of a little inconvenience, I hope we may be put out of our way again very soon.” (quote from the book)
Mushrooms, illness and unexpected accommodations that prove enlightening.
Certain Evils by Amy D’Orazio:
“May certain evils be brought down on your head, Mr Darcy!” (quote from the book)
A letter, a well and a crone…or was it all just coincidence?
Building Bridges by Ali Scott:
“Who was this charming man, with easy manners, that slipped into friendly conversation with her beloved relations.” (quote from the book)
A Derbyshire tour beset by rain, rain and more rain.
Not in Vain by Mary Smythe:
“Never had she so honestly felt that she could have loved him as now, when all hope must be in vain.” (quote from the book)
A twist of fate for Lydia who helps things along for Elizabeth and Darcy.
Clutter and Concealment by Nan Harrison:
“She had flattered herself that her superior discernment kept her from error. It was humbling to realise that she had her own improper pride and vanity that caused her to make mistakes in judgement. Terrible mistakes.” (quote from the book)
A garden shed, conversation and Mr. Collins.
Seven Days in Northhamptonshire:
“Standing here so close to her, after their difficult but necessary exchange, he realised he was not yet finished falling in love with her.” (quote from the book)
Surprise, awkwardness and much reflection.
A Just and Tender Spirit by Julie Cooper:
Devil take Lady Catherine for her far-reaching tentacles of gossip, for thoughtlessly tossing this problem at my feet…” (quote from the book)
The shoe is on the other foot! A complete and utterly delightful surprise in this one!
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Another wonderful collection of short stories that hit the mark! There were a few that really sparked joy for me!
Tempest by Frances Reynolds:
“She would think of Jane later, weep for her sister’s lost happiness at some other hour. First, she must endure this trial of being trapped with the cause of it for as long as the rain lasted.” (quote from the book)
A refusal, a thunderstorm and quiet civility with tea.
A Tax on his Forbearance by Jan Ashton:
“Well, if this is the result of a little inconvenience, I hope we may be put out of our way again very soon.” (quote from the book)
Mushrooms, illness and unexpected accommodations that prove enlightening.
Certain Evils by Amy D’Orazio:
“May certain evils be brought down on your head, Mr Darcy!” (quote from the book)
A letter, a well and a crone…or was it all just coincidence?
Building Bridges by Ali Scott:
“Who was this charming man, with easy manners, that slipped into friendly conversation with her beloved relations.” (quote from the book)
A Derbyshire tour beset by rain, rain and more rain.
Not in Vain by Mary Smythe:
“Never had she so honestly felt that she could have loved him as now, when all hope must be in vain.” (quote from the book)
A twist of fate for Lydia who helps things along for Elizabeth and Darcy.
Clutter and Concealment by Nan Harrison:
“She had flattered herself that her superior discernment kept her from error. It was humbling to realise that she had her own improper pride and vanity that caused her to make mistakes in judgement. Terrible mistakes.” (quote from the book)
A garden shed, conversation and Mr. Collins.
Seven Days in Northhamptonshire:
“Standing here so close to her, after their difficult but necessary exchange, he realised he was not yet finished falling in love with her.” (quote from the book)
Surprise, awkwardness and much reflection.
A Just and Tender Spirit by Julie Cooper:
Devil take Lady Catherine for her far-reaching tentacles of gossip, for thoughtlessly tossing this problem at my feet…” (quote from the book)
The shoe is on the other foot! A complete and utterly delightful surprise in this one!
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my review.
August 31, 2026
Each story is a banger!
One of the best compilations I’ve read yet. Some of the authors featured were already among my favorites (hello Amy d’Orazio!) but many were new to me. However all of them seem to avoid those peevish pitfalls so common in JAFF, specifically: misunderstanding class distinctions, misunderstanding naming conventions (Just because she has an older sister doesn’t mean she should be called Miss Elizabeth all the time! Only when you need to distinguish her from her other sisters. Check the original source material! Do what Jane does!), anachronisms and purple prose. Each story was an oasis of sense and good writing and also delightful in its own way.
One of the best compilations I’ve read yet. Some of the authors featured were already among my favorites (hello Amy d’Orazio!) but many were new to me. However all of them seem to avoid those peevish pitfalls so common in JAFF, specifically: misunderstanding class distinctions, misunderstanding naming conventions (Just because she has an older sister doesn’t mean she should be called Miss Elizabeth all the time! Only when you need to distinguish her from her other sisters. Check the original source material! Do what Jane does!), anachronisms and purple prose. Each story was an oasis of sense and good writing and also delightful in its own way.
October 5, 2026
The Perils of Proximity is a collection of short of Pride and Prejudice variation where our dear couple are forced to spend time together. As with all collections, some are better than others. As a lover of longer retellings, I found that the tales were shorter and hence plots and characters were generally less well developed that would be afforded with a longer tale. However, there were a few gems. My favourite was 'A just and tender spirit' by Julie Cooper - a retelling where Mr Darcy was the heir to Longbourne and in the position of Mr Collins. Overall, I think most readers would find a short story that they will love in this collection. 4/5 stars
September 9, 2026
I liked all the stories in this book. My favorites would be a tie between A Just and Tender Spirit by Julie Cooper, and Seven Days in Northamptonshire by Lucy Marin. I also loved Tempest by Frances Reynolds and Not in Vain by Mary Smythe was very good.
All the stories were great, and it was fun to see the different situations that the authors used for the "proximity". I think that A Just and Tender Spirit should have had a little more proximity (to be included in a book about proximity), but overall it was a sweet story.
All the stories were great, and it was fun to see the different situations that the authors used for the "proximity". I think that A Just and Tender Spirit should have had a little more proximity (to be included in a book about proximity), but overall it was a sweet story.
July 27, 2026
This is a collection of stories in which Darcy and Elizabeth are forced to spend some time together and end up understanding each other better. A few take place before or after Hunsford and Julie Cooper's story has changed the setting a bit more, making Darcy the estranged cousin to whom Longbourn is entailed.
Normally at this point of an anthology review, I would tell you which one was my favourite, but I am sorry, I can't help you there, I loved them all.
Steam level: Kissing.
Normally at this point of an anthology review, I would tell you which one was my favourite, but I am sorry, I can't help you there, I loved them all.
Steam level: Kissing.
August 1, 2026
Tempest, Frances Reynolds - 3 stars
A Tax on His Forbearance, Jan Ashton - 4 stars. I enjoyed the Phillipses.
Certain Evils, Amy D’Orazio - 3 stars.
Building Bridges, Ali Scott - 3.5 stars. I enjoyed Mrs Langford.
Not in Vain, Mary Smythe - 4 stars. Lydia’s role was fun.
Clutter and Concealment, Nan Harrison - 1 star.
Seven Days in Northamptonshire, Lucy Marin - 5 stars.
A Just and Tender Spirit, Julie Cooper - 4 stars. I enjoyed the Darcy/Collins swap.
A Tax on His Forbearance, Jan Ashton - 4 stars. I enjoyed the Phillipses.
Certain Evils, Amy D’Orazio - 3 stars.
Building Bridges, Ali Scott - 3.5 stars. I enjoyed Mrs Langford.
Not in Vain, Mary Smythe - 4 stars. Lydia’s role was fun.
Clutter and Concealment, Nan Harrison - 1 star.
Seven Days in Northamptonshire, Lucy Marin - 5 stars.
A Just and Tender Spirit, Julie Cooper - 4 stars. I enjoyed the Darcy/Collins swap.
August 2, 2026
Breathe of Fresh Air
4.5 stars rounded up for me. I would prefer if they stories were just a smidge longer, but it was a breath of fresh air to see AI free writing - complex sentences and error free, well- written stories! Like all anthologies, some stories are better liked than others. For me, Mary Smythe always writes the best short stories. I believe hers was my favorite in this collection, which was the same for the Tis the Season anthology.
4.5 stars rounded up for me. I would prefer if they stories were just a smidge longer, but it was a breath of fresh air to see AI free writing - complex sentences and error free, well- written stories! Like all anthologies, some stories are better liked than others. For me, Mary Smythe always writes the best short stories. I believe hers was my favorite in this collection, which was the same for the Tis the Season anthology.
August 2, 2026
Time Together Well Spent
Indeed… forced proximity is the common thread to all of theses wonderful short stories. Be it illness, injury, the “Lydia effect”, locked doors or even a reimagining of character roles- time together actually talking and understanding each other was key. I loved seeing Darcy and Elizabeth connect under each of the different circumstances to find their HEA.
Indeed… forced proximity is the common thread to all of theses wonderful short stories. Be it illness, injury, the “Lydia effect”, locked doors or even a reimagining of character roles- time together actually talking and understanding each other was key. I loved seeing Darcy and Elizabeth connect under each of the different circumstances to find their HEA.
August 9, 2026
Love the Quick Doses of ODC!
Honestly, I love the novella variation compilations with the added delight that they are from my favorite authors! Sometimes you need a quick fix and no time to devote to a full length novel. Keep collaborating and bringing these well written, unique and enjoyable stories!
Honestly, I love the novella variation compilations with the added delight that they are from my favorite authors! Sometimes you need a quick fix and no time to devote to a full length novel. Keep collaborating and bringing these well written, unique and enjoyable stories!
July 29, 2026
Creative what-if story stories
Fantastic reimaginings of circumstances surrounding the events in P&P that force Darcy and Elizabeth together. For all of us who just wishes that they had not been afraid to talk to each other earlier - Here are some scenarios in which they must!
Fantastic reimaginings of circumstances surrounding the events in P&P that force Darcy and Elizabeth together. For all of us who just wishes that they had not been afraid to talk to each other earlier - Here are some scenarios in which they must!
August 1, 2026
Gift to all JAFF fans
What a great compendium of short stories! Thank you to all of the fabulous authors. All are favorites and for good reasons. I highly recommend this book. Well done!
What a great compendium of short stories! Thank you to all of the fabulous authors. All are favorites and for good reasons. I highly recommend this book. Well done!
August 16, 2026
Each One Is Awesome!
Whether sickness, injury, or being locked in a shed as the cause of the proximity, each story is adorable. Each is unique but altogether they are a sweet collection of 'what ifs'.
Whether sickness, injury, or being locked in a shed as the cause of the proximity, each story is adorable. Each is unique but altogether they are a sweet collection of 'what ifs'.
July 28, 2026
This is a delightful and different variation that contains multiple novelettes.
They are all enjoyable and perfect for a quick uplifting evening.
They are all enjoyable and perfect for a quick uplifting evening.
August 6, 2026
Really enjoyed this one. It’s like the best part of every book
August 17, 2026
Short story collection. Various authors. Excellent.
August 23, 2026
More like 3.75. Some really cute short stories, some that I didn’t really care for.
August 28, 2026
Enjoyed Julie Cooper, Amy D’Orazio and Lucy Marin’s stories, in that order.. didn’t connect much with others
September 16, 2026
These short stories were pretty fun, a few cute and a few simply hilarious.
September 25, 2026
All the 8 stories are 5 stars really. loved all of them
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