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The Cousins #1
Darcy's Ultimatum: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
The first in a sweet romance series inspired by Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice.
When Fitzwilliam Darcy’s arranged life falls to pieces, his father, Mr. George Darcy, gives him an ultimatum: Marry by the end of the London Season or risk disinheritance. Can Darcy cast aside society’s frigid attitude toward marriage and find true love? Or will his desire to honor his deceased mother’s memory hold him back?
Elizabeth Bennet faces the greatest challenge of her life: Find a husband by the end of the London Season or be forced to marry the heir apparent of her family home, Mr. Collins. A romantic at heart, will Elizabeth find a gentleman to meet her high expectations?
After a disastrous meeting, Darcy and Elizabeth determine not to like each other.
But, the London Season has only begun…
When Fitzwilliam Darcy’s arranged life falls to pieces, his father, Mr. George Darcy, gives him an ultimatum: Marry by the end of the London Season or risk disinheritance. Can Darcy cast aside society’s frigid attitude toward marriage and find true love? Or will his desire to honor his deceased mother’s memory hold him back?
Elizabeth Bennet faces the greatest challenge of her life: Find a husband by the end of the London Season or be forced to marry the heir apparent of her family home, Mr. Collins. A romantic at heart, will Elizabeth find a gentleman to meet her high expectations?
After a disastrous meeting, Darcy and Elizabeth determine not to like each other.
But, the London Season has only begun…
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2015
846 people are currently reading
747 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Joy
47 books209 followersWhen Jennifer isn’t busy dreaming up new adventures for her favorite characters, she is reading, baking, or chasing her twins around the park.
She believes in happy endings, sweet romance, and plenty of intrigue. She writes what she most enjoys reading, so expect lighthearted stories with happy endings and a few laughs.
Born on the beautiful Oregon coast, she traveled all around the world until she finally settled in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador with her husband and two kids.
She believes in happy endings, sweet romance, and plenty of intrigue. She writes what she most enjoys reading, so expect lighthearted stories with happy endings and a few laughs.
Born on the beautiful Oregon coast, she traveled all around the world until she finally settled in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador with her husband and two kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
September 15, 2018
This is a very different P&P variation. In this version Mr. Darcy (sr.) is still alive, he tells Fitzwilliam that he must marry. As that Fitzwilliam has been putting off his father by citing his mother's promise for him to wed Anne deBourgh. So when Anne rejects his proposal his world is shaken. Anne has learned a secret that will rock Rosings.
His return to Pemberley makes it worse when his father sets an ultimatum either marry by the end of the season or be disinherited in favor of Richard. Now it is not the purpose of this review to discuss 18th century inheritance laws; and I suspect it would be very difficult to disinherit an only son who had no physical or mental disabilities; so let us just call this a plot device. We also learn that the senior Darcy isn't quite as charmed by Wickham as he was in death.
Meanwhile at Longbourn Elizabeth Bennet is under a similar threat. Should she fail to find a husband while in London with the Gardiners she will be forced to marry Mr. Collins. Lizzy & Jane had already met Mr. Darcy & Mr. Bingley following a splashing of Lizzy by their carriage. The author works very hard to make Lizzy have a bad impression of Darcy but truly who would be comfortable having drenched a young lady and then forced to take tea with her family.
In London Jane and Bingley quickly find one another and begin courting while Lizzy encounters Wickham and Col. Fitzwilliam. Eventually she meets up with Darcy but she is slightly rude to him.
The story progresses, the author shoehorns in various P&P elements, Caroline is cruel, Darcy mistakenly believes Lizzy is engaged to Collins, Georgiana is lured by Wickham, there is an absurd bit of drama at the end involving Georgiana, Lizzy & Wickham.
One of my complaints is that in the beginning there is a rather long dialog between Darcy & Col. Fitzwilliam about Anne wishing to go to London and having no where to do. Now I am aware that there is second book in this series that covers Anne but why couldn't she stay at Darcy's London home with Georgiana or with the Earl & Countess of Matlock? Why wouldn't that be their automatic thought? Then despite Anne being in London she is never mentioned until the very end when Darcy muses that he hadn't seen Anne despite being in London for 2 months.
His return to Pemberley makes it worse when his father sets an ultimatum either marry by the end of the season or be disinherited in favor of Richard. Now it is not the purpose of this review to discuss 18th century inheritance laws; and I suspect it would be very difficult to disinherit an only son who had no physical or mental disabilities; so let us just call this a plot device. We also learn that the senior Darcy isn't quite as charmed by Wickham as he was in death.
Meanwhile at Longbourn Elizabeth Bennet is under a similar threat. Should she fail to find a husband while in London with the Gardiners she will be forced to marry Mr. Collins. Lizzy & Jane had already met Mr. Darcy & Mr. Bingley following a splashing of Lizzy by their carriage. The author works very hard to make Lizzy have a bad impression of Darcy but truly who would be comfortable having drenched a young lady and then forced to take tea with her family.
In London Jane and Bingley quickly find one another and begin courting while Lizzy encounters Wickham and Col. Fitzwilliam. Eventually she meets up with Darcy but she is slightly rude to him.
The story progresses, the author shoehorns in various P&P elements, Caroline is cruel, Darcy mistakenly believes Lizzy is engaged to Collins, Georgiana is lured by Wickham, there is an absurd bit of drama at the end involving Georgiana, Lizzy & Wickham.
One of my complaints is that in the beginning there is a rather long dialog between Darcy & Col. Fitzwilliam about Anne wishing to go to London and having no where to do. Now I am aware that there is second book in this series that covers Anne but why couldn't she stay at Darcy's London home with Georgiana or with the Earl & Countess of Matlock? Why wouldn't that be their automatic thought? Then despite Anne being in London she is never mentioned until the very end when Darcy muses that he hadn't seen Anne despite being in London for 2 months.
September 21, 2018
Rating: 4 1/2 stars
If you enjoy alternative twists of classics, you will love this variation on P&P. In this version, Darcy and Elizabeth are smarter, her foolish sisters are more likable, and everyone brings zest to the plot, including would-be OW, Caroline Bingley. Giving Anne de Bourgh a backbone sets everything in motion and what happens next is fun, sweet and historical romance at its finest.
Jennifer Joy is a new author for me and I plan to keep reading this delightful series which offers a creative fresh spin on one of my favorite books.
If you enjoy alternative twists of classics, you will love this variation on P&P. In this version, Darcy and Elizabeth are smarter, her foolish sisters are more likable, and everyone brings zest to the plot, including would-be OW, Caroline Bingley. Giving Anne de Bourgh a backbone sets everything in motion and what happens next is fun, sweet and historical romance at its finest.
Jennifer Joy is a new author for me and I plan to keep reading this delightful series which offers a creative fresh spin on one of my favorite books.
March 3, 2019
I've been dying to dive back into my favorite book, Pride and Prejudice but.. haven't found the time to actually read the book. So, when I came across this on my audible account - I figured it couldn't hurt to listen to this?
Darcy's Ultimatum sort of gives a different point of view on the OG of P&P. In it, we get to see more of his family and watch him fall in love. I liked how Darcy and Elizabeth are both sort of being forced into a marriage by their own family. Of course, if they don't get married by a certain day they will have to follow through in an arranged marriage. Now these both sound terrible because they would be marrying a family member - and that just creeps me out!
After finishing this, well, it makes me miss the heck out of P&P. Now I'm even more determined to find time to dive back into that book because I miss Darcy and Elizabeth so much! I did like this different take on how they ended up together. It's always fun to see their relationship grow - no matter what version I'm getting.
Overall, I liked it and will probably move onto the next book in the series!
Darcy's Ultimatum sort of gives a different point of view on the OG of P&P. In it, we get to see more of his family and watch him fall in love. I liked how Darcy and Elizabeth are both sort of being forced into a marriage by their own family. Of course, if they don't get married by a certain day they will have to follow through in an arranged marriage. Now these both sound terrible because they would be marrying a family member - and that just creeps me out!
After finishing this, well, it makes me miss the heck out of P&P. Now I'm even more determined to find time to dive back into that book because I miss Darcy and Elizabeth so much! I did like this different take on how they ended up together. It's always fun to see their relationship grow - no matter what version I'm getting.
Overall, I liked it and will probably move onto the next book in the series!
March 23, 2015
4.5 stars
I found this book to be well written. It flowed and kept my attention. The characters were true to canon. It is difficult when one reads so many JAFF books to find stories that are not predictable. After all it is a given that we will have our HEA. Although I did read one very recently that did not give me that.
So, as the book description tells us, both Elizabeth and Darcy have to deal with ultimatums from one parent or the other. And, get this, Elizabeth is going to stay in London with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner to participate in "the Season". With the lack of a significant dowry is this effort doomed? Additionally, Darcy has until the end of the season to also find a bride. But is he going to just sort through all the young ladies of his acquaintance or is he going to participate in another season to pull a name out of the hat...or will he finally propose to his cousin, Anne? He can have any woman he wants, we think.
And with Elizabeth in London along with Jane, we must know, surely you know, that the invitations they receive through their relatives' connections and acquaintances are not going to be on the same level as Fitzwilliam Darcy. So will they even meet? Once? Twice? Will Darcy repeat his faux pas of refusing to dance and finding Elizabeth not tempting enough, if they do meet?
Having Mr. Darcy, Sr. in the picture was an added diversion in this story. His role was significant. Many of the familiar actors are in residence: Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, Lady Catherine, Charles and Caroline Bingley, Georgiana, (with her own residence in London), Wickham, the tribe of Bennet sisters, Mr. and Mrs. Bennet and, lucky us...or should I say, Lucky Elizabeth, Mr. Collins in all his sweaty glory.
After setting the scenarios in Rosings and in Longbourn most of the story evolves in London. The climax added excitement of a new variety. Really: are shots fired? I did wish for a little more sexual chemistry described in certain meetings. I do like a stolen kiss, a lingering grasp, an accidental bump. But this was a sweet tale and I do look forward to the next in this series. I find myself wondering which cousin is next? I read this in one day and recommend it to readers of this genre.
I found this book to be well written. It flowed and kept my attention. The characters were true to canon. It is difficult when one reads so many JAFF books to find stories that are not predictable. After all it is a given that we will have our HEA. Although I did read one very recently that did not give me that.
So, as the book description tells us, both Elizabeth and Darcy have to deal with ultimatums from one parent or the other. And, get this, Elizabeth is going to stay in London with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner to participate in "the Season". With the lack of a significant dowry is this effort doomed? Additionally, Darcy has until the end of the season to also find a bride. But is he going to just sort through all the young ladies of his acquaintance or is he going to participate in another season to pull a name out of the hat...or will he finally propose to his cousin, Anne? He can have any woman he wants, we think.
And with Elizabeth in London along with Jane, we must know, surely you know, that the invitations they receive through their relatives' connections and acquaintances are not going to be on the same level as Fitzwilliam Darcy. So will they even meet? Once? Twice? Will Darcy repeat his faux pas of refusing to dance and finding Elizabeth not tempting enough, if they do meet?
Having Mr. Darcy, Sr. in the picture was an added diversion in this story. His role was significant. Many of the familiar actors are in residence: Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, Lady Catherine, Charles and Caroline Bingley, Georgiana, (with her own residence in London), Wickham, the tribe of Bennet sisters, Mr. and Mrs. Bennet and, lucky us...or should I say, Lucky Elizabeth, Mr. Collins in all his sweaty glory.
After setting the scenarios in Rosings and in Longbourn most of the story evolves in London. The climax added excitement of a new variety. Really: are shots fired? I did wish for a little more sexual chemistry described in certain meetings. I do like a stolen kiss, a lingering grasp, an accidental bump. But this was a sweet tale and I do look forward to the next in this series. I find myself wondering which cousin is next? I read this in one day and recommend it to readers of this genre.
June 8, 2022
A Good Variation
Reviewed in Canada on March 26, 2019
Another by this author I have enjoyed. The image of Darcy’s reaction to the way his father would greet him had me giggle out loud each time it happened. I won’t spoil it. You must read it. Loved it.
June 3, 2022 - Audiobook
Very good narration by Emma Lysy.
Reviewed in Canada on March 26, 2019
Another by this author I have enjoyed. The image of Darcy’s reaction to the way his father would greet him had me giggle out loud each time it happened. I won’t spoil it. You must read it. Loved it.
June 3, 2022 - Audiobook
Very good narration by Emma Lysy.
October 9, 2019
Excellent story
What-of Darcy’s dad was still alive and Darcy’s personality was like his mother’s and his father’s personality was salt of the earth kind of guy.
The story and the writing is 4 stars but I give another star for papa Darcy being alive and being a great kind of man.
Not happy about Wickham’s fate. I don’t see how any Darcy could feel safe from him in the future. Huge hole of logic.
What-of Darcy’s dad was still alive and Darcy’s personality was like his mother’s and his father’s personality was salt of the earth kind of guy.
The story and the writing is 4 stars but I give another star for papa Darcy being alive and being a great kind of man.
Not happy about Wickham’s fate. I don’t see how any Darcy could feel safe from him in the future. Huge hole of logic.
January 27, 2021
Good retelling
This is a different variation of the classic, Pride And Prejudice. Although it does have some of the intrigue with Mr Collins, Wickham, and the Bennetts, it’s a much tamer story.
I would recommend it to people who enjoy retellings of Jane Austen stories.
This is a different variation of the classic, Pride And Prejudice. Although it does have some of the intrigue with Mr Collins, Wickham, and the Bennetts, it’s a much tamer story.
I would recommend it to people who enjoy retellings of Jane Austen stories.
February 28, 2017
I had some good laughs with this book. Light and fun to read. Recommended.
May 7, 2018
This is a fun alternate to Austen's P&P. While Joy writes similarly to Austen, I did find her a touch long-winded. I did enjoy Darcy and Elizabeth immensely and familiar circumstances made it a joy to read. If you're a big P&P fan, you've got to read this book and the whole series.
My Rating: 4 stars
My Rating: 4 stars
December 10, 2023
Third Listening. Tells you a lot right? 🙈
It is such a cool story! Mr. Darcy Senior is still alive and healthy, he gave his son Fitzwilliam an Ultimatum to find a bride or loose his inheritence.
Meanwhile Elizabeth is kind of in the same predicament, if she doesn‘t find a husband by the end of the season, she is forced to marry Mr. Collins.
Darcy is spending the season in London, same as Elizabeth and Jane. Of course it‘s only natural that their paths cross. Same with Jane & Bingley.
I must say, I enjoyed every minute of Darcy Sr. Such a cool character. All he cares about is grandchildren,not even even bothering who the wife would be 😂
Georgiana, sweet Girl! loved her. Glad she wasn‘t portrayed as a spoiled br*t. She even grew to answer to Miss Bingley‘s barbs! Yay!
And Jane? OMG!! She left me at least twice speechless. She had a little backbone. Our Dear Jane had one of the best comments against Miss Bingley! I still applaud her!
As for ODC, their Lovestory was beautiful and rather slowely progessing bc of misunderstandings. Darcy Junior, is pretty much like in canon. Elizabeth pretty much like in canon too.
Mr. Wickham, the villain, gets what he deserves, though maybe he can be glad to have such a godfather.
For Caroline, in this she only barks but doesn‘t bite. If you know what I mean..
All in all I loved the book and narration was good too. It‘s recommendable,Readers!
-Clean Content
-Lengths about 6 hours
-Not too much angst. ‚Medium‘
It is such a cool story! Mr. Darcy Senior is still alive and healthy, he gave his son Fitzwilliam an Ultimatum to find a bride or loose his inheritence.
Meanwhile Elizabeth is kind of in the same predicament, if she doesn‘t find a husband by the end of the season, she is forced to marry Mr. Collins.
Darcy is spending the season in London, same as Elizabeth and Jane. Of course it‘s only natural that their paths cross. Same with Jane & Bingley.
I must say, I enjoyed every minute of Darcy Sr. Such a cool character. All he cares about is grandchildren,not even even bothering who the wife would be 😂
Georgiana, sweet Girl! loved her. Glad she wasn‘t portrayed as a spoiled br*t. She even grew to answer to Miss Bingley‘s barbs! Yay!
And Jane? OMG!! She left me at least twice speechless. She had a little backbone. Our Dear Jane had one of the best comments against Miss Bingley! I still applaud her!
As for ODC, their Lovestory was beautiful and rather slowely progessing bc of misunderstandings. Darcy Junior, is pretty much like in canon. Elizabeth pretty much like in canon too.
Mr. Wickham, the villain, gets what he deserves, though maybe he can be glad to have such a godfather.
For Caroline, in this she only barks but doesn‘t bite. If you know what I mean..
All in all I loved the book and narration was good too. It‘s recommendable,Readers!
-Clean Content
-Lengths about 6 hours
-Not too much angst. ‚Medium‘
October 20, 2021
They have to be quick
They can lose a lot of this London season doesn't work for them.
I like their first encounter, it's kind of funny :)
They can lose a lot of this London season doesn't work for them.
I like their first encounter, it's kind of funny :)
October 3, 2023
Update: I listened to the audio version of this book (free on YouTube) and enjoyed hearing the accent for the characters. It works much better than what I hear in my head when just reading.
****
I enjoy a good P&P variation and this one had a good "what if". What if Mr. Darcy still lived and threatened to disown Darcy if he doesn't marry and start producing grandchildren. And what if Jane and Elizabeth were given one season in London but if they come back without an engagement... then Collins.... Ewww. Terrible ultimatum.
I wasn't always sure that characters would react the way they were written but in some cases I was happy to see the changes. Jane gets a backbone and actually feels negative when the situation merits it. Anne de Bourgh refuses a proposal and stands up to her mother!
It was also interesting to see into characters that don't get much in the real P&P. Mr. Darcy was way more outgoing and boisterous than I would have thought and the description of Mrs. Darcy is a lot more haughty than I tend to think of her. Perhaps the author's ideas are more accurate. It doesn't really matter though. I can accept this view for this book.
There is a bit of violence in the end cuz, well, Wickham. But it really isn't the main part of the story. The story is light, fun and interesting. And clean.
****
I enjoy a good P&P variation and this one had a good "what if". What if Mr. Darcy still lived and threatened to disown Darcy if he doesn't marry and start producing grandchildren. And what if Jane and Elizabeth were given one season in London but if they come back without an engagement... then Collins.... Ewww. Terrible ultimatum.
I wasn't always sure that characters would react the way they were written but in some cases I was happy to see the changes. Jane gets a backbone and actually feels negative when the situation merits it. Anne de Bourgh refuses a proposal and stands up to her mother!
It was also interesting to see into characters that don't get much in the real P&P. Mr. Darcy was way more outgoing and boisterous than I would have thought and the description of Mrs. Darcy is a lot more haughty than I tend to think of her. Perhaps the author's ideas are more accurate. It doesn't really matter though. I can accept this view for this book.
There is a bit of violence in the end cuz, well, Wickham. But it really isn't the main part of the story. The story is light, fun and interesting. And clean.
April 29, 2023
I really liked this nice retelling of Pride and Prejudice. It wasn’t forced and it wasn’t so out of the original characters to really believe this could have been something Darcy and Elizabeth would go through. I think what I really liked was the low conflict level. It was there but didn’t take over the story and it wasn’t necessarily Darcy and Elizabeth that had the conflict. And I liked that. I also like that the other 3 sisters were kind of left in the country as Jane and Elizabeth were able to go about London with their Aunt and Uncle.
Very nicely told and a good sort of quick read to get back into other books.
Very nicely told and a good sort of quick read to get back into other books.
October 26, 2019
I am sure I am going to get crap back for this from the Jane Austen fans, but I thoroughly enjoyed this retelling of P&P...I might even prefer this story over the original...don't tell anyone.
Moral Note: Some mild violence and kidnapping with evil intent.
Moral Note: Some mild violence and kidnapping with evil intent.
December 26, 2021
This Pride and Prejudice variation is the first in a series covering the courtships of three cousins, Mr. Darcy, Miss Anne de Bourgh, and Colonel Fitzwilliam.
In this first in the series, Darcy proposes to his cousin Anne, whom he's been unofficially engaged to since infancy. But she refuses him, which he didn't expect, and now he's at a loss as to whom he will marry.
He goes off to Hertforshire with his friend Mr. Bingley, to look at an estate Bingley is thinking of leasing. As they approach Netherfield in a carriage, on a rainy day, they accidentally splash water and mud Miss Elizabeth Bennet, who had gotten her foot stuck in some mud beside the road so that she couldn't move out of the way. They take her home, and they meet the Bennet family. Bingley is immediately smitten with Miss Jane Bennet, but Darcy, in spite of finding Miss Elizabeth intriguing, is certain she doesn't like him, and he can't stand her family.
Days later, back at Pemberley, Darcy's father insists that he marry, in fact he gives him an ultimatum. He is to find a bride by the end of the London season.
Meanwhile Elizabeth's family is visited by Mr. Collins, who intends on taking a wife from among the Bennet daughters. Jane is excused from consideration by her mother, who saw how smitten Bingley was with her. But Elizabeth is next in line, and Mr. Collins starts to assume he will have her as a bride. Somehow Elizabeth manages to convince her mother that she might do better if she and Jane are allowed a season in London, staying with their Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. So off to London they go.
This is a fun story for the most part, with some suspense at one point that gets some of our beloved characters into a dangerous situation. I liked this older Mr Darcy, and found the romance intriguing in this version.
In this first in the series, Darcy proposes to his cousin Anne, whom he's been unofficially engaged to since infancy. But she refuses him, which he didn't expect, and now he's at a loss as to whom he will marry.
He goes off to Hertforshire with his friend Mr. Bingley, to look at an estate Bingley is thinking of leasing. As they approach Netherfield in a carriage, on a rainy day, they accidentally splash water and mud Miss Elizabeth Bennet, who had gotten her foot stuck in some mud beside the road so that she couldn't move out of the way. They take her home, and they meet the Bennet family. Bingley is immediately smitten with Miss Jane Bennet, but Darcy, in spite of finding Miss Elizabeth intriguing, is certain she doesn't like him, and he can't stand her family.
Days later, back at Pemberley, Darcy's father insists that he marry, in fact he gives him an ultimatum. He is to find a bride by the end of the London season.
Meanwhile Elizabeth's family is visited by Mr. Collins, who intends on taking a wife from among the Bennet daughters. Jane is excused from consideration by her mother, who saw how smitten Bingley was with her. But Elizabeth is next in line, and Mr. Collins starts to assume he will have her as a bride. Somehow Elizabeth manages to convince her mother that she might do better if she and Jane are allowed a season in London, staying with their Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. So off to London they go.
This is a fun story for the most part, with some suspense at one point that gets some of our beloved characters into a dangerous situation. I liked this older Mr Darcy, and found the romance intriguing in this version.
May 7, 2018
My thought after finishing Darcy's Ultimatum: That was fun!
I'm not quite sure how I feel about it. I felt it wasn't very true to the characters. Georgianna was supposed to be shy to the point of being mistaken for being haughty. Elizabeth confessed herself not to be a great reader but in this there was quite a bit about her being one. There were other things that kind of bothered me aside from the characters, but it is not my custom to dwell on such subjects that cause me irritation; therefore I shall change topics.
Some things I enjoyed were Mr. Darcy's rejection right at the beginning with Miss de Bourgh- that was great ("How could she possibly not want me?" Now that was in character!); Mr. Wickham taking a beating; a Darcy Hug; those 'references' to the P&P (I'm not sure they can be called references in this case but I don't know what else to call them). Another thing was that it got quite exciting towards the end.
It's not the worst P&P spinoff ever, I'm sure, but neither is it the best. However, I don't know this for a fact since this is the only one I've ever read. And it was fun to see my favorite characters, however altered they might be, in a different setting, but I think this also would have made a good story in it's own right with a whole different cast of characters. So, yeah, I'm still not sure how I feel about it except that it was amusing and I am going to finish the series because I'm curious to know what's in Miss de Bourgh's letter. My only advice: Don't go into it expecting it to be exactly like P&P because it's not and I do applaud the author on creating a diverting story. It could have been a dream that Lizzy had in the original.
I'm not quite sure how I feel about it. I felt it wasn't very true to the characters. Georgianna was supposed to be shy to the point of being mistaken for being haughty. Elizabeth confessed herself not to be a great reader but in this there was quite a bit about her being one. There were other things that kind of bothered me aside from the characters, but it is not my custom to dwell on such subjects that cause me irritation; therefore I shall change topics.
Some things I enjoyed were Mr. Darcy's rejection right at the beginning with Miss de Bourgh- that was great ("How could she possibly not want me?" Now that was in character!); Mr. Wickham taking a beating; a Darcy Hug; those 'references' to the P&P (I'm not sure they can be called references in this case but I don't know what else to call them). Another thing was that it got quite exciting towards the end.
It's not the worst P&P spinoff ever, I'm sure, but neither is it the best. However, I don't know this for a fact since this is the only one I've ever read. And it was fun to see my favorite characters, however altered they might be, in a different setting, but I think this also would have made a good story in it's own right with a whole different cast of characters. So, yeah, I'm still not sure how I feel about it except that it was amusing and I am going to finish the series because I'm curious to know what's in Miss de Bourgh's letter. My only advice: Don't go into it expecting it to be exactly like P&P because it's not and I do applaud the author on creating a diverting story. It could have been a dream that Lizzy had in the original.
August 10, 2015
This was a very cute version of P&P. Elizabeth's mother will force her to marry Collins if she does not find anyone else to marry in her first season in London. In this version George Darcy is still alive, and is pretty obsessed with having grandchildren. Darcy is able to put off marriage, because he believes he will marry Anne. But guess what! Anne says no! (Not really a spoiler as it happens on the first page).
So Darcy's father threatens to disinherit him if he does not find a bride this season! Elizabeth and Darcy had already met each other, and although there was an attraction, on both sides, they didn't really like each other.
What I liked: This book was well written. It felt light hearted, even though some serious stuff was going on. Miss Bingley was as annoying as ever, with some really good barbs, and Mr. Wickham was appropriately evil. Collins was obnoxious and Fitzwilliams was a romantic! I think it was interesting to see how Darcy reacted to Anne's rejection. He had to actually go to balls and parties and meet people! Oh no! lol. I thought how he met Elizabeth in Hertfordshire was cute. Their undeniable attraction was also cute. Then there's a seen at the end where I could not put the book down! Woo! So exciting!
What I wasn't fond of: Although there was an undeniable attraction between our protagonists...there was also some passion missing. I have been reading a lot of mature-audience only novels lately, so maybe it's just such a huge contrast to those - but really they don't even kiss. :-/ But that's a very small complaint. I will read this again!
So Darcy's father threatens to disinherit him if he does not find a bride this season! Elizabeth and Darcy had already met each other, and although there was an attraction, on both sides, they didn't really like each other.
What I liked: This book was well written. It felt light hearted, even though some serious stuff was going on. Miss Bingley was as annoying as ever, with some really good barbs, and Mr. Wickham was appropriately evil. Collins was obnoxious and Fitzwilliams was a romantic! I think it was interesting to see how Darcy reacted to Anne's rejection. He had to actually go to balls and parties and meet people! Oh no! lol. I thought how he met Elizabeth in Hertfordshire was cute. Their undeniable attraction was also cute. Then there's a seen at the end where I could not put the book down! Woo! So exciting!
What I wasn't fond of: Although there was an undeniable attraction between our protagonists...there was also some passion missing. I have been reading a lot of mature-audience only novels lately, so maybe it's just such a huge contrast to those - but really they don't even kiss. :-/ But that's a very small complaint. I will read this again!
April 11, 2015
3.5 stars - in this version Darcy's father is still alive and wants to live to see grandchildren so he gives William Darcy an ultimatum - find a wife this season is London or be disinherited! Mr Collins is determined to marry Elizabeth so Mrs Bennet gives he an ultimatum - find a husband in London this season or return to Longbourn to wed Collins. Both of our beloved characters need saving but don't realize it's the other they really can love. Darcy's father doesn't seem to,care who he marries but William wants to honor his mother who was from the first circles. William doesn't have the full weight of Pemberley on his shoulders as his father is still alive so he is less stern in this version although still comes across quite proud. Elizabeth quickly gets over her prejudice to Darcy when her ultimatum is Collins but she is afraid he won't want to marry her within the season. Wickham still wants to stir trouble and Georgians is a naive young girl with her head filled with fanciful notions of romance. Bingley is still Bingley and Jane still Jane. All ends happily for senior Darcy's perspective.
April 8, 2018
Well, I suppose you could say it's a Pride and Prejudice variation in that there is a character named "Fitzwilliam Darcy" and a character named "Elizabeth Bennet" in it, but that's really where the similiarities between the two books end. This had a fine plot, but by using the characters from P&P, the author had no need to develop characters and could rely on name recognition to do her work for her. A little more character development and this would have been a fine novel in its own right, but trying to play on P&P was ultimately to this book's detriment.
January 26, 2018
Loved the tension and angst in this novel. There are also tender and romantic moments which makes it almost perfect.
The only thing I missed here, as well as a lot of other P&P sequals I have read, is that the author could use more pages where they are happy. This concludes in the last pages and just love to see them happy for a bit more than 3 pages...
I read it in one go because it was Unputdownable!
The only thing I missed here, as well as a lot of other P&P sequals I have read, is that the author could use more pages where they are happy. This concludes in the last pages and just love to see them happy for a bit more than 3 pages...
I read it in one go because it was Unputdownable!
July 30, 2018
While this story was a fun historical drama the only connection to P&P was the flagrant use of all the characters and locations. I'm left to wonder, since this doesn't really follow Austen's plot, why not write it 100% as your own story? Why steal someone else's imagination? With just a few new names for characters and homes this would have done just that. Have courage that you can write a new plot, because you did just that.
March 23, 2015
Interesting premise
I enjoyed this book. I read it in one sitting. I like the Mr. Darcy is alive and has a wicked sense of humor. I can't wait to see what the author writes in her next novel.
I enjoyed this book. I read it in one sitting. I like the Mr. Darcy is alive and has a wicked sense of humor. I can't wait to see what the author writes in her next novel.
December 17, 2019
This was an enjoyable and sweet story! I especially enjoyed getting to meet the author's idea of who Mr. Darcy senior was!
October 9, 2019
There are certain stories that I just have to read every adaptation I can get my hands on; Pride & Prejudice is one of those stories. I won't lie, this tendency has burned me before, but I can't escape it. So, I bought this, because I couldn't not. And honestly, I wasn't expecting much. Ok, fine. I went in telling myself it's a *variation*, take it all with a mountain of salt. And then, I started reading and... I couldn't stop.
Let's not tell anyone how late I stayed up finishing this, because it would be embarrassing. Let's also not tell anyone how many times I said things, out loud, like a crazy person. "This author really gets Jane Austen! She understands! She's read Pride & Prejudice more than once. Oh, is she an actual, honest to goodness fan or what?" Let's also not mention that I might've wiped away a stray tear or two because it was so clearly a creation borne out of love for Pride and Prejudice. And, if anything gets me, it's when someone loves something I love too and then creates something to show that love.
This author gets Pride and Prejudice. Honestly, better that some expensive film adaptations. (Not even kidding.) This author gets the characters. The time period. The heart of the book. It's all in there. It's pretty amazing. I lost track of the number of times I wanted to just high five her and then ask if she'd do another one. Emma? Please?
She doesn't rewrite Pride & Prejudice or readapt it. She takes these timeless characters and this timeless love story and asks, "What if a couple of things were a little different?" and answers that question beautifully. It feels like Lizzy, it feels like Darcy. The plot feels plausible and the characters behave in a way that makes sense for the changes to the plot, while remaining true characters we love. It also feels quite historically accurate. It was a joy to read and to appreciate Pride & Prejudice in a different way. A joy to see some of my favorite literary characters portrayed so well. For example, I really loved how Wickham was handled, I definitely think that's how Lizzy would have responded to him, had she not been prejudiced against Darcy.
I know what you're thinking, if it's so great... Why the four stars, hmmm? Hmmmm? Well, there are a couple of tiny quibbles. *Tiny.* Some phrases are repeated throughout the book: "batted her stubby lashes at him" being one and there are a couple writing weaknesses. There's also some confusion for me about exactly where Bingley fits in the social scale. Is he in trade? Is he not in trade? If he's in trade, why is he hanging with Darcy? Also, the author uses some creative liberties with secondary characters. (I didn't remove a star for this, because I didn't mind at all, but, you know, the more you know.)
Tldr? I really enjoyed this. I wish more adaptations of my favorite stories were done this well. It is clear that the author loves and knows Pride & Prejudice and honored it with a fun, creative take on the classic tale.
Let's not tell anyone how late I stayed up finishing this, because it would be embarrassing. Let's also not tell anyone how many times I said things, out loud, like a crazy person. "This author really gets Jane Austen! She understands! She's read Pride & Prejudice more than once. Oh, is she an actual, honest to goodness fan or what?" Let's also not mention that I might've wiped away a stray tear or two because it was so clearly a creation borne out of love for Pride and Prejudice. And, if anything gets me, it's when someone loves something I love too and then creates something to show that love.
This author gets Pride and Prejudice. Honestly, better that some expensive film adaptations. (Not even kidding.) This author gets the characters. The time period. The heart of the book. It's all in there. It's pretty amazing. I lost track of the number of times I wanted to just high five her and then ask if she'd do another one. Emma? Please?
She doesn't rewrite Pride & Prejudice or readapt it. She takes these timeless characters and this timeless love story and asks, "What if a couple of things were a little different?" and answers that question beautifully. It feels like Lizzy, it feels like Darcy. The plot feels plausible and the characters behave in a way that makes sense for the changes to the plot, while remaining true characters we love. It also feels quite historically accurate. It was a joy to read and to appreciate Pride & Prejudice in a different way. A joy to see some of my favorite literary characters portrayed so well. For example, I really loved how Wickham was handled, I definitely think that's how Lizzy would have responded to him, had she not been prejudiced against Darcy.
I know what you're thinking, if it's so great... Why the four stars, hmmm? Hmmmm? Well, there are a couple of tiny quibbles. *Tiny.* Some phrases are repeated throughout the book: "batted her stubby lashes at him" being one and there are a couple writing weaknesses. There's also some confusion for me about exactly where Bingley fits in the social scale. Is he in trade? Is he not in trade? If he's in trade, why is he hanging with Darcy? Also, the author uses some creative liberties with secondary characters. (I didn't remove a star for this, because I didn't mind at all, but, you know, the more you know.)
Tldr? I really enjoyed this. I wish more adaptations of my favorite stories were done this well. It is clear that the author loves and knows Pride & Prejudice and honored it with a fun, creative take on the classic tale.
June 7, 2025
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. This is a Pride and Prejudice variation. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is the first book in a trilogy, The Darcy Cousins Series. If you want to fall in love with Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth as they fall for each other, then you'll love this sweet romance. The perfect story to satisfy your craving for a clean, sweet Regency romance.
The date’s set, and now, all he needs is a bride. When Fitzwilliam Darcy’s arranged life falls to pieces, his father, Mr. George Darcy, gives him an ultimatum, marry by the end of the London Season or risk disinheritance. Can Darcy cast aside society’s frigid attitude toward marriage and find true love, or will his desire to honor his deceased mother’s memory hold him back? Elizabeth Bennet faces the greatest challenge of her life, find a husband by the end of the London Season or be forced to marry the heir apparent of her family home, Mr. Collins. A romantic at heart, will Elizabeth find a gentleman to meet her high expectations? After a disastrous meeting, Darcy and Elizabeth are determine not to like each other, but, the London Season has only begun. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. This is a Pride and Prejudice variation. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is the first book in a trilogy, The Darcy Cousins Series. If you want to fall in love with Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth as they fall for each other, then you'll love this sweet romance. The perfect story to satisfy your craving for a clean, sweet Regency romance.
The date’s set, and now, all he needs is a bride. When Fitzwilliam Darcy’s arranged life falls to pieces, his father, Mr. George Darcy, gives him an ultimatum, marry by the end of the London Season or risk disinheritance. Can Darcy cast aside society’s frigid attitude toward marriage and find true love, or will his desire to honor his deceased mother’s memory hold him back? Elizabeth Bennet faces the greatest challenge of her life, find a husband by the end of the London Season or be forced to marry the heir apparent of her family home, Mr. Collins. A romantic at heart, will Elizabeth find a gentleman to meet her high expectations? After a disastrous meeting, Darcy and Elizabeth are determine not to like each other, but, the London Season has only begun. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
November 3, 2023
Light, great portrayal of characters, HFA
This is a delightful variation. I had so much fun reading a fresh take on our beloved P&P characters, especially Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Bingley, Jane, Mr. Collins, and Wickham.
We see more clearly who Darcy is and how he became that way. We spend more time with him than with Elizabeth and her family.
Mr. and Mrs. Bennet and their three younger daughters are basically the same but play a small part. As do Miss Bingley and Mr. Collins. Charlotte is barely mentioned.
The Gardiners host Jane and Elizabeth for the London season. Most of the action takes place in London, where they participate in many activities of the Marriage Mart.
Bingley courts Jane with single-minded purpose. Darcy discovers he is not attracted to any woman he meets. Rather, he enjoys the wonderful compatibility he has with Elizabeth.
An important new element is Mr. Darcy Sr., who is alive and well. Though Darcy handles most of their estate, Mr. Darcy Sr. oversees it, and is involved in both his childrens' lives.
Charming, humorous, fun.
This is a delightful variation. I had so much fun reading a fresh take on our beloved P&P characters, especially Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Bingley, Jane, Mr. Collins, and Wickham.
We see more clearly who Darcy is and how he became that way. We spend more time with him than with Elizabeth and her family.
Mr. and Mrs. Bennet and their three younger daughters are basically the same but play a small part. As do Miss Bingley and Mr. Collins. Charlotte is barely mentioned.
The Gardiners host Jane and Elizabeth for the London season. Most of the action takes place in London, where they participate in many activities of the Marriage Mart.
Bingley courts Jane with single-minded purpose. Darcy discovers he is not attracted to any woman he meets. Rather, he enjoys the wonderful compatibility he has with Elizabeth.
An important new element is Mr. Darcy Sr., who is alive and well. Though Darcy handles most of their estate, Mr. Darcy Sr. oversees it, and is involved in both his childrens' lives.
Charming, humorous, fun.
September 8, 2019
I love Pride and Prejudice so much and am therefore hesitant to read adaptations. I want to, but I'm always afraid of being disappointed. So, it was with some reluctance that I decided to read this one. I am glad that I did read it. It was very enjoyable an excellent adaptation. My only complaint is that I feel sometimes it wasn't entirely consistent. I think it sometimes forgot what had happened in it and what happened in the original. There were several times where you would read the section and that is how Elizabeth was feeling in the original novel, but it wasn't how she had describe herself feeling when this event took place several pages ago. So, sometimes you just had to pretend it all meshed. Even so, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I also enjoyed having some of the story from Darcy's perspective and enjoyed his relationship with his father. The book is clean, which is another aspect that I really appreciate. I will probably look into the rest of the series.
January 30, 2021
Enjoyable read
This was an enjoyable variation with less angst. Fitzwilliam and Georgiana Darcy’s father, George Darcy is still alive; thus, the inner conflict of Mr. Darcy about the need to marry well and/or up is done away with. George Wickham is more depraved; Georgiana, less shy and reserved, while the elements of pride and prejudice is smoothed out as the story progresses. In this variation, Jane and Elizabeth are given a chance for a season in London to find suitable prospects for husbands lest either of them face the “inevitability” of marriage to their cousin, Mr. Collins. One significant complaint this reader has is the foundation and/or depth of the love affair and/or affection between FD and EB seems wanting, somewhat shallow, which is a shame. Perhaps, if more pages were devoted to Mr. Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s thoughts and feelings for each other, this variation would have been more satisfactory. 3 1/2 stars rounded up to 4
This was an enjoyable variation with less angst. Fitzwilliam and Georgiana Darcy’s father, George Darcy is still alive; thus, the inner conflict of Mr. Darcy about the need to marry well and/or up is done away with. George Wickham is more depraved; Georgiana, less shy and reserved, while the elements of pride and prejudice is smoothed out as the story progresses. In this variation, Jane and Elizabeth are given a chance for a season in London to find suitable prospects for husbands lest either of them face the “inevitability” of marriage to their cousin, Mr. Collins. One significant complaint this reader has is the foundation and/or depth of the love affair and/or affection between FD and EB seems wanting, somewhat shallow, which is a shame. Perhaps, if more pages were devoted to Mr. Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s thoughts and feelings for each other, this variation would have been more satisfactory. 3 1/2 stars rounded up to 4
September 15, 2017
Generally, I liked the story and twist offered in this variation of Pride and Prejudice. Ms. Joy has found a nice balance between narration and dialogue and action scenes, which is something not all writers of Austen fan fiction have mastered.
There were some usage errors:
split infinitives: "to finally meet," "to not exist," (used twice) "to finally meet"
"strait to business" should be "straight"
"let Jane and I go to" should be "me"
There were some questions dealing with the time period:
It was impossible to sign over an inheritance. Personal property (furniture, crystal, jewelry, even money, etc.) could be willed to another, but land inheritance was set by laws of primogeniture.
What kind of "military recruitment office"?
A Bible written in Latin would be used in the Catholic church. The Church of England used the King James version of the Bible.
There were some usage errors:
split infinitives: "to finally meet," "to not exist," (used twice) "to finally meet"
"strait to business" should be "straight"
"let Jane and I go to" should be "me"
There were some questions dealing with the time period:
It was impossible to sign over an inheritance. Personal property (furniture, crystal, jewelry, even money, etc.) could be willed to another, but land inheritance was set by laws of primogeniture.
What kind of "military recruitment office"?
A Bible written in Latin would be used in the Catholic church. The Church of England used the King James version of the Bible.
July 29, 2023
This book took a lot of liberties with the plot of Pride and Prejudice, but stayed true to the characters. Both Darcy and Elizabeth are given ultimatums: Darcy has to marry before the end of the London season or be disinherited, and Elizabeth has to marry before the end of the season or else she has to marry Mr. Collins. The book is about Darcy trying to decide if he can marry Elizabeth, and it's all decided when she and Georgiana get kidnapped by Wickham as he tries to pay off some serious gambling debts. The development of the characters was done well, and I appreciated not having to see Lydia more than for a heartbeat at the beginning of the book (LOL). The story was fine, but was missing bits of the original that I liked. I probably will not continue the series until Kindle offers them for free or if the library has the books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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