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Run Mad: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
I was not mad. I was inconvenient.
When Elizabeth Bennet rejects Mr Darcy’s proposal at Hunsford, she believes she has merely exercised a woman's last the right of refusal. But when a careless letter carries word of it back to Longbourn, her father’s characteristic indolence curdles into something monstrous. A wit too sharp, a will too strong, a daughter who will not marry where she is to the right physician, these are not faults of character but symptoms of mental illness. Drugged and spirited north, Elizabeth wakes behind the locked doors of a private madhouse, the place where inconvenient women are sent to be cured of having minds of their own.
Ten months later, Fitzwilliam Darcy comes for her. But the only way to free her is to make her his wife in truth, by papers forged in a debtor’s gaol and binding in the eyes of the law. Elizabeth escapes one cage only to discover she has become the property of the very man she once turned away.
She will not be grateful. She will not be managed. She will not fall in love with her rescuer.
Then the blackmailer's letters begin, threatening to parade her ruin before all the world. And Elizabeth must decide whether the man who took her freedom might be the one to help her seize it back, and whether the only way out of the shadows is to walk, at last, into the light.
Content please be advised that this book contains historically accurate descriptions of the treatment of women believed to be insane in the 19th century.
Forced marriage - enemies to lovers - womens agency and autonomy; coverture / a wife's legal powerlessness; found family and female friendship - marriage before love - pining hero - damsel in distress
Ten months later, Fitzwilliam Darcy comes for her. But the only way to free her is to make her his wife in truth, by papers forged in a debtor’s gaol and binding in the eyes of the law. Elizabeth escapes one cage only to discover she has become the property of the very man she once turned away.
She will not be grateful. She will not be managed. She will not fall in love with her rescuer.
Then the blackmailer's letters begin, threatening to parade her ruin before all the world. And Elizabeth must decide whether the man who took her freedom might be the one to help her seize it back, and whether the only way out of the shadows is to walk, at last, into the light.
Content please be advised that this book contains historically accurate descriptions of the treatment of women believed to be insane in the 19th century.
Forced marriage - enemies to lovers - womens agency and autonomy; coverture / a wife's legal powerlessness; found family and female friendship - marriage before love - pining hero - damsel in distress
- GenresRomanceJane Austen
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 5, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Do not start this book before bedtime.
An incredibly compelling read, this story touches on one of the harshest aspects of women's status in Regency times. They were chattel - owned by their fathers until a husband then took up the leash.
When Mr Bennet finds out Elizabeth refused Mr. Darcy's proposal, he doesn't laugh it off. Instead he systematically builds a case, with Mrs. Bennet's assistance, to have Elizabeth declared unfit and she is secreted away into an institution. Darcy finds out and goes searching.
While this book touches on a dark topic and we are given some details of the treatment (torture is a better word) Elizabeth and the other women suffer, it doesn't get bogged down in the details.
We are also given only a glimpse of Elizabeth's recuperation after being locked away for 10 months, thinking her family threw her away and forgot about her.
Even when Elizabeth has to deal with feeling like a parcel to be handed around at men's whims, there is a scene or two of temper and then it's done.
In fact it doesn't get bogged down in any of the details which could have made this book an epic. One that dared to really address not only women's legal status but also rehabilitating after months of torture and psychological conditioning, and learning to trust again.
The one shining moment for me was the women's meeting in the Ton, where Elizabeth was finally heard and listened to and then one by one other women stood and shared a nightmare or their own.
Now, this is a romance and of course Our Dear Couple get their Happy Ever After. But for me, the lack of depth was too superficial for such a weighty topic. It only skimmed the surface.
As someone who knows people who suffer from severe PTSD, there's no way sights, smells, sounds and nigthmares wouldn't trigger the victim. There are token scenes to show she survived a horrific experience, but that's all they were. They will serve to keep the story lighter than it should be and more palatable to a wider audience.
I was also left with a some unresolved questions of why Mr. Bennet altered so much and how Elizabeth's whole family could have been so blind to what they sentenced her to. The forgiveness didn't feel resolved either, at least not to this reader.
An emotional and moving tale, it's beautifully written and it shines a light on how far women have come (in some cases, and yet how far there is still to go for women all around the world to truly be safe and free).
The author offers a free short story which gives a glimpse into Darcy's travails as he searches for Elizabeth.
I recieved an advance copy and voluntarily leave my review.
An incredibly compelling read, this story touches on one of the harshest aspects of women's status in Regency times. They were chattel - owned by their fathers until a husband then took up the leash.
When Mr Bennet finds out Elizabeth refused Mr. Darcy's proposal, he doesn't laugh it off. Instead he systematically builds a case, with Mrs. Bennet's assistance, to have Elizabeth declared unfit and she is secreted away into an institution. Darcy finds out and goes searching.
While this book touches on a dark topic and we are given some details of the treatment (torture is a better word) Elizabeth and the other women suffer, it doesn't get bogged down in the details.
We are also given only a glimpse of Elizabeth's recuperation after being locked away for 10 months, thinking her family threw her away and forgot about her.
Even when Elizabeth has to deal with feeling like a parcel to be handed around at men's whims, there is a scene or two of temper and then it's done.
In fact it doesn't get bogged down in any of the details which could have made this book an epic. One that dared to really address not only women's legal status but also rehabilitating after months of torture and psychological conditioning, and learning to trust again.
The one shining moment for me was the women's meeting in the Ton, where Elizabeth was finally heard and listened to and then one by one other women stood and shared a nightmare or their own.
Now, this is a romance and of course Our Dear Couple get their Happy Ever After. But for me, the lack of depth was too superficial for such a weighty topic. It only skimmed the surface.
As someone who knows people who suffer from severe PTSD, there's no way sights, smells, sounds and nigthmares wouldn't trigger the victim. There are token scenes to show she survived a horrific experience, but that's all they were. They will serve to keep the story lighter than it should be and more palatable to a wider audience.
I was also left with a some unresolved questions of why Mr. Bennet altered so much and how Elizabeth's whole family could have been so blind to what they sentenced her to. The forgiveness didn't feel resolved either, at least not to this reader.
An emotional and moving tale, it's beautifully written and it shines a light on how far women have come (in some cases, and yet how far there is still to go for women all around the world to truly be safe and free).
The author offers a free short story which gives a glimpse into Darcy's travails as he searches for Elizabeth.
I recieved an advance copy and voluntarily leave my review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
An Unforgettable Premise
Edit: Paragraph inserted for the audiobook review.
Elizabeth Grace is a true and fine actor, and she definitely displays it in her performance and narration of this audiobook. The parts that made my eyes leak when I read the book, had me heave a sob or two as I listened to her perform some those scenes. I felt so many emotions listening to them. Not just the opening chapters when Elizabeth is freely given over by her father and is first subjected to her torture but also the ones that tore Darcy’s poor heart apart. Then, also near the end when Elizabeth faces the ladies of society and reveals her secret. That particular scene is very moving. I just loved this book, and know I’ll listen to it again and again. I highly recommend it for both Amy D’Orazio’s superb writing and Elizabeth Grace’s performance.
___________
This variation begins after Hunsford, when Mr Collins writes to Mr Bennet congratulating him on Elizabeth’s expected marriage. Expecting to be diverted, when Elizabeth tells her father she refused yet another proposal, his amusement is short lived. After he consults with a physician who is “an expert in the treatment of deranged females”, Elizabeth is drugged, bound, and carried away to be confined in a private asylum.
Darcy eventually learns from Jane what has happened and becomes determined to find her. He is also burdened by the knowledge that had he not proposed where his words could be overheard, Elizabeth’s refusal would never have made its way back to Longbourn. Using his wealth and connections, he begins a search for her driven by the simple fact that he loves her and wants her safe.
After she’s rescued, Elizabeth is grateful, but angry and distrustful of his actions. She’s aware that her freedom can still depend upon the will of a man. Darcy loves her, but hasn’t learned how to protect her without making decisions for her. When they both finally acknowledge and reconcile their differences, I cried happy tears. Seeing Elizabeth finally understand just how much Darcy had risked for her, and tell him she loved him, is an incredibly moving scene.
The author handled a difficult subject matter extremely well. A story like this could easily have become unnecessarily graphic, but I never felt it did. Yes, Elizabeth’s ordeal is disturbing and emotional, but what occurred is told candidly only when necessary. Her experience also provides a sobering reminder of how little control a woman had over her own life during that time in history. It certainly made me appreciate being born in a different era and possessing rights that women like Elizabeth could have only imagined.
Amy D’Orazio has never been afraid to put Darcy and Elizabeth through some serious angst, so be aware that Run Mad is one of her darker stories; yet even during her confinement, Elizabeth found a lifetime friend. I can’t recall ever reading another variation with a premise quite like this one, but rest assured, there is a very happy ending. This book probably touched every emotion I possess. I thought it was an outstanding read.
Highly recommend.
Content warning: Elizabeth suffers physical and emotional abuse during her confinement, including being drugged, restrained, and subjected to some disturbing medical treatments.
Note: None of my reviews are generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Edit: Paragraph inserted for the audiobook review.
Elizabeth Grace is a true and fine actor, and she definitely displays it in her performance and narration of this audiobook. The parts that made my eyes leak when I read the book, had me heave a sob or two as I listened to her perform some those scenes. I felt so many emotions listening to them. Not just the opening chapters when Elizabeth is freely given over by her father and is first subjected to her torture but also the ones that tore Darcy’s poor heart apart. Then, also near the end when Elizabeth faces the ladies of society and reveals her secret. That particular scene is very moving. I just loved this book, and know I’ll listen to it again and again. I highly recommend it for both Amy D’Orazio’s superb writing and Elizabeth Grace’s performance.
___________
This variation begins after Hunsford, when Mr Collins writes to Mr Bennet congratulating him on Elizabeth’s expected marriage. Expecting to be diverted, when Elizabeth tells her father she refused yet another proposal, his amusement is short lived. After he consults with a physician who is “an expert in the treatment of deranged females”, Elizabeth is drugged, bound, and carried away to be confined in a private asylum.
Darcy eventually learns from Jane what has happened and becomes determined to find her. He is also burdened by the knowledge that had he not proposed where his words could be overheard, Elizabeth’s refusal would never have made its way back to Longbourn. Using his wealth and connections, he begins a search for her driven by the simple fact that he loves her and wants her safe.
After she’s rescued, Elizabeth is grateful, but angry and distrustful of his actions. She’s aware that her freedom can still depend upon the will of a man. Darcy loves her, but hasn’t learned how to protect her without making decisions for her. When they both finally acknowledge and reconcile their differences, I cried happy tears. Seeing Elizabeth finally understand just how much Darcy had risked for her, and tell him she loved him, is an incredibly moving scene.
The author handled a difficult subject matter extremely well. A story like this could easily have become unnecessarily graphic, but I never felt it did. Yes, Elizabeth’s ordeal is disturbing and emotional, but what occurred is told candidly only when necessary. Her experience also provides a sobering reminder of how little control a woman had over her own life during that time in history. It certainly made me appreciate being born in a different era and possessing rights that women like Elizabeth could have only imagined.
Amy D’Orazio has never been afraid to put Darcy and Elizabeth through some serious angst, so be aware that Run Mad is one of her darker stories; yet even during her confinement, Elizabeth found a lifetime friend. I can’t recall ever reading another variation with a premise quite like this one, but rest assured, there is a very happy ending. This book probably touched every emotion I possess. I thought it was an outstanding read.
Highly recommend.
Content warning: Elizabeth suffers physical and emotional abuse during her confinement, including being drugged, restrained, and subjected to some disturbing medical treatments.
Note: None of my reviews are generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
October 20, 2026
High drama and angst
After Mr Bennett learns that Elizabeth has refused an offer of marriage from Darcy during her stay in Kent, he shocks Elizabeth by having her committed to an asylum for madwomen. She's drugged and abused there if she shows any spirit or independent thought. Darcy learns through Uncle Gardiner of Elizabeth's disappearance, and eventually from Jane about what their father did to Elizabeth. His love for her compels him to find her and free her, knowing very well that Elizabeth is not insane.
This isn't the usual lighthearted fare I've come to expect from this author. The book deals with the plight of women in this era, how men sometimes abuse their power over females that become troublesome or "inconvenient." This is a bad Mr Bennett version, and Mrs Bennett is almost just as awful. It's difficult reading a JAFF variation in which Elizabeth is this damaged, even though it's temporary. The romance is negatively affected by the melancholy situation, although Darcy's level of commitment is swoon worthy. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
After Mr Bennett learns that Elizabeth has refused an offer of marriage from Darcy during her stay in Kent, he shocks Elizabeth by having her committed to an asylum for madwomen. She's drugged and abused there if she shows any spirit or independent thought. Darcy learns through Uncle Gardiner of Elizabeth's disappearance, and eventually from Jane about what their father did to Elizabeth. His love for her compels him to find her and free her, knowing very well that Elizabeth is not insane.
This isn't the usual lighthearted fare I've come to expect from this author. The book deals with the plight of women in this era, how men sometimes abuse their power over females that become troublesome or "inconvenient." This is a bad Mr Bennett version, and Mrs Bennett is almost just as awful. It's difficult reading a JAFF variation in which Elizabeth is this damaged, even though it's temporary. The romance is negatively affected by the melancholy situation, although Darcy's level of commitment is swoon worthy. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
October 11, 2026
As a young girl, Jane Austen wrote a story called Love and Freindship, a parody of romantic novels of the era. It contains a well-known quote: "Run mad as often as you choose, but do not faint." When I saw the title to Ms. D'Dorazio's latest and that it's cited in the book's Epigraph, I rather expected ithe story would relate to that theme.
And it does, but this is no comedic parody. Instead, it's a serious indictment of the lack of power women had over their own lives during the Regency era. If a father or husband felt his daughter or wife needed correction, there were places he could send her that would conveniently deem her "mad" and provide treatment to "fix" her.
This is the situation in which Elizabeth finds herself when her father learns she spurned a marriage proposal from Fitzwilliam Darcy, a wealthy, desirable bachelor. He and Mrs. Bennet agree that he has been too lenient - their daughter must be mad to have passed up such an opportunity and something must be done. "Dr. Geoffrey" is happy to confirm their assessment. Elizabeth is drugged and taken to Hackney House, where gently bred women diagnosed as lunatics receive torturous treatments with ice baths, a rotating chair, drugs, and more. Submissive behavior is rewarded; any resistance receives "correction." And only one of the women in residence might reasonably considered anything other than completely sane.
Darcy learns of Elizabeth's disappearance from Longbourn when Bingley reunites with Jane Bennet. His concern leads him to investigate further. Once Darcy learns where Elizabeth probably is being held, the only option available to rescue her puts his own life in jeopardy. It also could lead her to hate him for taking away her freedom of choice.
The story is beautifully written. (Never expect less from Ms. D'Orazio!) Darcy is positively heroic, and there's a great scene where he puts to good use the lessons learned from his cousin, Lord Saye, on getting his way with arrogance. I also loved the expansion of Mary King's role as the unhappy wife of Mr. Wickham.
Four plot points disappointed me, however.
The first is the character of Mr. Bennet. I really wanted to understand what had happened to suddenly change him from a doting father who encouraged development of his daughter's intellect and supported her when she turned down Mr. Collins into an unreasonably narrow-minded tyrant. Elizabeth speculates that her father might have found himself in some financial difficulty that Mr. Darcy could have fixed, and Mr. Bennet made her a scapegoat for his own shortcomings. That seems a weak - and unsubstantiated -motivation for such a drastic turnaround.
Elizabeth's character mystified me, too. She spends ten months enduring psychological and physical torture but displays no significant symptoms of PTSD. It seems like an opportunity lost for a serious story like this to go even deeper. Instead, she's a typical heroine who dusts herself off and carries on with minimal apparent aftereffects of a horrific experience.
The major effect she does display is her resentment of the means Darcy found to secure her freedom, even though she acknowledges the risk he accepted to himself and the lack of a better option. I imagine it's intended to show how important her independence is to her after her ordeal, but it came across to me as ungrateful.
There's one additional detail that bugged me, though it's comparatively minor. Nurse Hazel. She's clearly a victim herself, but the HEA makes it clear that ALL the staff at Hackney House suffer repercussions. I felt she was a character that deserved a little mercy.
Despite these caveats, the story is an interesting glimpse into the reality of Regency England for some unfortunate women.
Contents get steamy but not graphic.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
And it does, but this is no comedic parody. Instead, it's a serious indictment of the lack of power women had over their own lives during the Regency era. If a father or husband felt his daughter or wife needed correction, there were places he could send her that would conveniently deem her "mad" and provide treatment to "fix" her.
This is the situation in which Elizabeth finds herself when her father learns she spurned a marriage proposal from Fitzwilliam Darcy, a wealthy, desirable bachelor. He and Mrs. Bennet agree that he has been too lenient - their daughter must be mad to have passed up such an opportunity and something must be done. "Dr. Geoffrey" is happy to confirm their assessment. Elizabeth is drugged and taken to Hackney House, where gently bred women diagnosed as lunatics receive torturous treatments with ice baths, a rotating chair, drugs, and more. Submissive behavior is rewarded; any resistance receives "correction." And only one of the women in residence might reasonably considered anything other than completely sane.
Darcy learns of Elizabeth's disappearance from Longbourn when Bingley reunites with Jane Bennet. His concern leads him to investigate further. Once Darcy learns where Elizabeth probably is being held, the only option available to rescue her puts his own life in jeopardy. It also could lead her to hate him for taking away her freedom of choice.
The story is beautifully written. (Never expect less from Ms. D'Orazio!) Darcy is positively heroic, and there's a great scene where he puts to good use the lessons learned from his cousin, Lord Saye, on getting his way with arrogance. I also loved the expansion of Mary King's role as the unhappy wife of Mr. Wickham.
Four plot points disappointed me, however.
The first is the character of Mr. Bennet. I really wanted to understand what had happened to suddenly change him from a doting father who encouraged development of his daughter's intellect and supported her when she turned down Mr. Collins into an unreasonably narrow-minded tyrant. Elizabeth speculates that her father might have found himself in some financial difficulty that Mr. Darcy could have fixed, and Mr. Bennet made her a scapegoat for his own shortcomings. That seems a weak - and unsubstantiated -motivation for such a drastic turnaround.
Elizabeth's character mystified me, too. She spends ten months enduring psychological and physical torture but displays no significant symptoms of PTSD. It seems like an opportunity lost for a serious story like this to go even deeper. Instead, she's a typical heroine who dusts herself off and carries on with minimal apparent aftereffects of a horrific experience.
The major effect she does display is her resentment of the means Darcy found to secure her freedom, even though she acknowledges the risk he accepted to himself and the lack of a better option. I imagine it's intended to show how important her independence is to her after her ordeal, but it came across to me as ungrateful.
There's one additional detail that bugged me, though it's comparatively minor. Nurse Hazel. She's clearly a victim herself, but the HEA makes it clear that ALL the staff at Hackney House suffer repercussions. I felt she was a character that deserved a little mercy.
Despite these caveats, the story is an interesting glimpse into the reality of Regency England for some unfortunate women.
Contents get steamy but not graphic.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 5, 2026
five star worthy but -2 bc of the feels
Clean, suitable 14+ due to subject matter. Possible triggers: too many to name but essentially losing everything & everyone you trust, think you know & love when an authority figure has more power. ***disclosure first please—this is my least fav book of this auto-buy author—not bc subject matter is farcical but bc it is NOT (apologies to the author). Women today are in similar precarious legal position bc political leaders using legislation to limit rights to our bodies…forced birth is a thing. Concerned on subject matter & wonder could archaic laws w/be modernized & problematic females will begin to disappear again? I hope not, but heck 10 years ago never thot some of our rights would be revoked either so theres that :-0 PLOT: When Elizabeth Bennet refuses 2nd proposal her parents esp spendthrift Mr Bennet punish her by having her declared mad & for 200£ yearly, she’s incarcerated in a madhouse where primitive conditions & even crueler male doctors rule. Ugh. Fortunately- Mr Darcy never stopped loving her & eventually finds Lizzy, secures her release and her physical/mental recovery begins. A doctor threatens to blackmail the Darcys later or will publish the statement of madness signed by Mr Bennet & how that’s handled is pivotal to Lizzy’s recovery. Likes: Mr Darcy is at his romantic best: he’s loving, insightful, emotionally intelligent & his family eventually come to value his wife as he does, there are lovely non physically intimate moments while Lizzy is finding herself again but while Lizzy becomes stronger & an infinitely more forgiving person than any female imaginable, she’s never ever the same. Dislikes: overall, not enough romantic scenes bc let’s face it, Lizzy is suffering which makes the denouement kinda hard to accept? But the most uncomfortable things for me was absolutely no justice for the bad guys (Mr Bennet suffers some health issues but never ever really has a reckoning) Jane does nothing ie regarding where her beloved sister is, nor Mary nor Mrs Bennet nor Lydia despite fact —they are in the same precarious position (cannot abide willful stupidity) living in a house where Mr Bennet demands total obedience; couldn’t accept the Gardiners didn’t do more; ‘madhouse’ doctors made wealthy & no retributive justice for them nor men that put them there. My discontent is most likely me wishing to rewrite a nasty part of history — i want more balance between the bad/good characters or at the least, some severe comeuppances for the bad guys in my books…& just like in real life, regarding immoral female incarcerations, never happened. Recommend this book to those who find this subject interesting but made me feel covert sense of dread & honestly prolly won’t read this book again.
Clean, suitable 14+ due to subject matter. Possible triggers: too many to name but essentially losing everything & everyone you trust, think you know & love when an authority figure has more power. ***disclosure first please—this is my least fav book of this auto-buy author—not bc subject matter is farcical but bc it is NOT (apologies to the author). Women today are in similar precarious legal position bc political leaders using legislation to limit rights to our bodies…forced birth is a thing. Concerned on subject matter & wonder could archaic laws w/be modernized & problematic females will begin to disappear again? I hope not, but heck 10 years ago never thot some of our rights would be revoked either so theres that :-0 PLOT: When Elizabeth Bennet refuses 2nd proposal her parents esp spendthrift Mr Bennet punish her by having her declared mad & for 200£ yearly, she’s incarcerated in a madhouse where primitive conditions & even crueler male doctors rule. Ugh. Fortunately- Mr Darcy never stopped loving her & eventually finds Lizzy, secures her release and her physical/mental recovery begins. A doctor threatens to blackmail the Darcys later or will publish the statement of madness signed by Mr Bennet & how that’s handled is pivotal to Lizzy’s recovery. Likes: Mr Darcy is at his romantic best: he’s loving, insightful, emotionally intelligent & his family eventually come to value his wife as he does, there are lovely non physically intimate moments while Lizzy is finding herself again but while Lizzy becomes stronger & an infinitely more forgiving person than any female imaginable, she’s never ever the same. Dislikes: overall, not enough romantic scenes bc let’s face it, Lizzy is suffering which makes the denouement kinda hard to accept? But the most uncomfortable things for me was absolutely no justice for the bad guys (Mr Bennet suffers some health issues but never ever really has a reckoning) Jane does nothing ie regarding where her beloved sister is, nor Mary nor Mrs Bennet nor Lydia despite fact —they are in the same precarious position (cannot abide willful stupidity) living in a house where Mr Bennet demands total obedience; couldn’t accept the Gardiners didn’t do more; ‘madhouse’ doctors made wealthy & no retributive justice for them nor men that put them there. My discontent is most likely me wishing to rewrite a nasty part of history — i want more balance between the bad/good characters or at the least, some severe comeuppances for the bad guys in my books…& just like in real life, regarding immoral female incarcerations, never happened. Recommend this book to those who find this subject interesting but made me feel covert sense of dread & honestly prolly won’t read this book again.
October 7, 2026
I like it, but don’t love it.
Certainly a darker story than Ms D’Orazio’s other works, and one that compelled me to keep reading. D’Orazio brilliantly conveys the horrors of the madhouses, horrors made all the more chilling because they were not fiction.
A few things confounded me. Darcy sends an express to Mr Gardiner in London from Yorkshire, and has a response 24 hours later. This is an unusual slip from Ms D’Orazio, but not a big deal in the grand scheme of things. Going back to the first half of the book, Mr Gardiner explains that despite his purse, he can’t search for Elizabeth because he doesn’t have the connections Darcy does. However, Darcy then employs shady figures either through Richard or Saye. Saye, of course, is good friends with a seedy smuggler. Mr Gardiner, with his vast trade and dockyard connections, could easily have rustled up folk of that ilk. That renders Darcy’s upper class connections irrelevant; having a Mr Gardiner without uite enough means to look thoroughly for Elizabeth would have made more sense.
In addition, Elizabeth’s responses after her rescue confound me. Not only does she begin a correspondence with her mother, but she never confronts the complicit woman when afforded the opportunity.
To my fellow Saye stans: he has a very minor role in this, and is much more subdued than usual. Given the subject matter, it makes sense, but it renders the tale a little less satisfying.
Certainly a darker story than Ms D’Orazio’s other works, and one that compelled me to keep reading. D’Orazio brilliantly conveys the horrors of the madhouses, horrors made all the more chilling because they were not fiction.
A few things confounded me. Darcy sends an express to Mr Gardiner in London from Yorkshire, and has a response 24 hours later. This is an unusual slip from Ms D’Orazio, but not a big deal in the grand scheme of things. Going back to the first half of the book, Mr Gardiner explains that despite his purse, he can’t search for Elizabeth because he doesn’t have the connections Darcy does. However, Darcy then employs shady figures either through Richard or Saye. Saye, of course, is good friends with a seedy smuggler. Mr Gardiner, with his vast trade and dockyard connections, could easily have rustled up folk of that ilk. That renders Darcy’s upper class connections irrelevant; having a Mr Gardiner without uite enough means to look thoroughly for Elizabeth would have made more sense.
In addition, Elizabeth’s responses after her rescue confound me. Not only does she begin a correspondence with her mother, but she never confronts the complicit woman when afforded the opportunity.
To my fellow Saye stans: he has a very minor role in this, and is much more subdued than usual. Given the subject matter, it makes sense, but it renders the tale a little less satisfying.
October 8, 2026
I love when fanfiction authors hit upon a really original premise, yet remain true to the themes and characters of the original work, and that is what Amy D'Orazio did here. Jane Austen writes about a world where men have all the power, and strong and intelligent women have to figure out how to work within those constraints and still remain true to themselves while constructing their own happiness.
By exploring this premise, D'Orazio took Austen's proud Darcy and hastily judgmental Elizabeth, and she raised the stakes enormously. By doing so, she illuminated the soundness and goodness of both of their characters. And she wrote an entirely original and suspenseful story that ended in an emotionally satisfying way.
They are still struggling with many of the same issues that they do in canon: his insistence on taking care of everything himself, riding roughshod over others' agency. And her quickness at ascribing the worst of motives to others--particularly him--when she is angry. And Elizabeth has plenty of valid reasons to be angry in this story. In this way they feel entirely like the beloved characters we know, and yet the story is entirely unique. Extremely well done.
By exploring this premise, D'Orazio took Austen's proud Darcy and hastily judgmental Elizabeth, and she raised the stakes enormously. By doing so, she illuminated the soundness and goodness of both of their characters. And she wrote an entirely original and suspenseful story that ended in an emotionally satisfying way.
They are still struggling with many of the same issues that they do in canon: his insistence on taking care of everything himself, riding roughshod over others' agency. And her quickness at ascribing the worst of motives to others--particularly him--when she is angry. And Elizabeth has plenty of valid reasons to be angry in this story. In this way they feel entirely like the beloved characters we know, and yet the story is entirely unique. Extremely well done.
October 12, 2026
While parts of this novel are disturbing, it's an excellent variation on Pride and Prejudice, and I highly recommend it.
When Elizabeth Bennet's father learns (possibly from the Collinses) that she turned down an offer of marriage from Mr. Darcy, he decides that she is somehow not in her right mind, and after much discussion has her locked away in a lunatic asylum. I had read elsewhere that this was common at the time, for daughters or wives who were inconvenient in some way to be sent off to asylums. And it's known that the treatment at that time even of legitimately mentally ill persons was pretty horrible. Imagine knowing you are sane, and receiving tortuous treatment said to be good for you.
Mr. Darcy happens by accident to hear that Elizabeth has been sent away from home to stay with a great-aunt, but he learns the story is probably false and begins to investigate her whereabouts.
A sometimes disturbing, sometimes frustrating and also decidedly romantic story evolves out of this situation. I especially love the friendship that arose between Elizabeth and one of the other inmates.
When Elizabeth Bennet's father learns (possibly from the Collinses) that she turned down an offer of marriage from Mr. Darcy, he decides that she is somehow not in her right mind, and after much discussion has her locked away in a lunatic asylum. I had read elsewhere that this was common at the time, for daughters or wives who were inconvenient in some way to be sent off to asylums. And it's known that the treatment at that time even of legitimately mentally ill persons was pretty horrible. Imagine knowing you are sane, and receiving tortuous treatment said to be good for you.
Mr. Darcy happens by accident to hear that Elizabeth has been sent away from home to stay with a great-aunt, but he learns the story is probably false and begins to investigate her whereabouts.
A sometimes disturbing, sometimes frustrating and also decidedly romantic story evolves out of this situation. I especially love the friendship that arose between Elizabeth and one of the other inmates.
October 12, 2026
All of this author's books are automatic reads for me, but this one was not romantic enoujgh for me, just a little too dark.
October 5, 2026
How like Amy D'Orazio to give us such an angsty Pride and Prejudice variation. Buckle up, because this one is a bumpy ride.
First, let me say just how unique this story is within the niche. One might even label it more along the lines of a dark romance with recognizable characters. The familiarity ends after the dreaded Hunsford proposal when Mr Collins shares the details with Mr Bennet who can't believe Elizabeth would refuse another offer of marriage. This might be one of the craziest variations on the evil Bennets trope as Mr and Mrs Bennet meticulously put together a case to have Elizabeth committed. It is heartbreaking as Elizabeth realizes not only is her family not really what they seem, but how much power she lacks over her own life.
Second, thank goodness for this dedicated Darcy. He goes above and beyond what he did for Lydia in canon as he spends much time, money and effort to track Elizabeth down in the asylum. She is so broken down and he is so patient. Elizabeth doesn't trust anyone and who could blame her? The romance is very much on Darcy's side for a while, but time is worth the outcome of earning her trust, love and respect. Elizabeth realizing she *does* love Darcy is the chef's kiss.
Be aware this story traverses some dark subject matter, but love overcomes evil and there is a guaranteed HEA. Ms. D'Orazio explores unequal power in relationships of the time and the evils of what an asylum meant for the one committed (and forgotten). These angsty variations are tough reads, but they may just be what Amy D'Orazio does best.
I received a copy from Quills and Quartos for consideration. All thoughts contained here are my own.
First, let me say just how unique this story is within the niche. One might even label it more along the lines of a dark romance with recognizable characters. The familiarity ends after the dreaded Hunsford proposal when Mr Collins shares the details with Mr Bennet who can't believe Elizabeth would refuse another offer of marriage. This might be one of the craziest variations on the evil Bennets trope as Mr and Mrs Bennet meticulously put together a case to have Elizabeth committed. It is heartbreaking as Elizabeth realizes not only is her family not really what they seem, but how much power she lacks over her own life.
Second, thank goodness for this dedicated Darcy. He goes above and beyond what he did for Lydia in canon as he spends much time, money and effort to track Elizabeth down in the asylum. She is so broken down and he is so patient. Elizabeth doesn't trust anyone and who could blame her? The romance is very much on Darcy's side for a while, but time is worth the outcome of earning her trust, love and respect. Elizabeth realizing she *does* love Darcy is the chef's kiss.
Be aware this story traverses some dark subject matter, but love overcomes evil and there is a guaranteed HEA. Ms. D'Orazio explores unequal power in relationships of the time and the evils of what an asylum meant for the one committed (and forgotten). These angsty variations are tough reads, but they may just be what Amy D'Orazio does best.
I received a copy from Quills and Quartos for consideration. All thoughts contained here are my own.
October 5, 2026
Unrelenting Love Survives and Grows in a Dark Corner of Regency Life
Wow! I knew conditions for the mentally ill during the Regency era were often horrific, but I had not fully realized the extent of what women could endure. The descriptions of the treatments were not always easy to read, but the author handled them well, presenting the reality without becoming overly theatrical or graphic.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Saye was a standout character for me. At times he can be a bit too bawdy for my tastes, but in this story he served as the pivot point between both Darcy's and Elizabeth's perspectives, and I loved his role. Lady Matlock was another favorite. She and Elizabeth made a formidable team.
If half-star ratings were possible, I would have given this book 4.5 stars. Since they are not, I happily rounded up to 5. Although this will be added to my reread collection, it is unlikely to be revisited as often as some of my other favorites because of the level of angst. However, that is not a reason to mark down what is, in my opinion, a very good book. It engaged my emotions completely, from frustration and horror at the "treatments" to uncertainty, hope, and eventual satisfaction.
The story is clean and sweet (romance-wise) with a nice reading pace. However, readers should be aware that the primary topic of the book is considerably darker, dealing with the treatment of the mentally ill during the Regency era. I received this book as an advanced reader copy and am leaving my honest opinion.
Wow! I knew conditions for the mentally ill during the Regency era were often horrific, but I had not fully realized the extent of what women could endure. The descriptions of the treatments were not always easy to read, but the author handled them well, presenting the reality without becoming overly theatrical or graphic.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Saye was a standout character for me. At times he can be a bit too bawdy for my tastes, but in this story he served as the pivot point between both Darcy's and Elizabeth's perspectives, and I loved his role. Lady Matlock was another favorite. She and Elizabeth made a formidable team.
If half-star ratings were possible, I would have given this book 4.5 stars. Since they are not, I happily rounded up to 5. Although this will be added to my reread collection, it is unlikely to be revisited as often as some of my other favorites because of the level of angst. However, that is not a reason to mark down what is, in my opinion, a very good book. It engaged my emotions completely, from frustration and horror at the "treatments" to uncertainty, hope, and eventual satisfaction.
The story is clean and sweet (romance-wise) with a nice reading pace. However, readers should be aware that the primary topic of the book is considerably darker, dealing with the treatment of the mentally ill during the Regency era. I received this book as an advanced reader copy and am leaving my honest opinion.
October 9, 2026
This was a brilliant and original book. More so because I believe what occurred to “inconvenient” women in the book probably happened irl. This type of scam is all too believable, as well as the “treatments” to which the women were subjected to change their thoughts and behaviors.
Elizabeth rejected Darcy’s proposal at Hunsford. Her father learned of the proposal through his correspondence with Collins. When he discovered Elizabeth refused Darcy he decided there was something wrong with her thinking and he had her judged insane by an unknown doctor, drugged and moved to an asylum without knowing her location. None of her family knew what had become of her and were told to tell neighbors she was helping an elderly aunt.
Darcy returns for her and discovers her situation. With his relations’ assistance he eventually finds her location and removes her and Mary Wickham (née King) from the asylum but not before they received months of brutal “treatment.” Darcy must enact a deception that could ruin both himself and Elizabeth to retrieve her. When Elizabeth realizes the cost of her freedom she is not sure she can ever forgive what she deems a betrayal or ever trust another man. Darcy must work hard to earn Elizabeth’s trust and to continue assisting her. Luckily his cousin Saye is there to help broker more understanding between them in his own inimitable and, always amusing, way.
Elizabeth rejected Darcy’s proposal at Hunsford. Her father learned of the proposal through his correspondence with Collins. When he discovered Elizabeth refused Darcy he decided there was something wrong with her thinking and he had her judged insane by an unknown doctor, drugged and moved to an asylum without knowing her location. None of her family knew what had become of her and were told to tell neighbors she was helping an elderly aunt.
Darcy returns for her and discovers her situation. With his relations’ assistance he eventually finds her location and removes her and Mary Wickham (née King) from the asylum but not before they received months of brutal “treatment.” Darcy must enact a deception that could ruin both himself and Elizabeth to retrieve her. When Elizabeth realizes the cost of her freedom she is not sure she can ever forgive what she deems a betrayal or ever trust another man. Darcy must work hard to earn Elizabeth’s trust and to continue assisting her. Luckily his cousin Saye is there to help broker more understanding between them in his own inimitable and, always amusing, way.
October 13, 2026
In a year when we mourn the death of the great Gloria Steinem, who was the Nellie Bly of her time, D'Orazio's latest does not disappoint. It is most timely. Our Lizzie, the Queen of Pauline Perils in the World of JAFF, is drugged, stolen, imprisoned, and tortured. Papa Bennet is completely off-character in this version, and a bit more back story might serve. That said, the social (and predatory) norms behind the plot make an absorbing story. Our Lizzie emerges from her prison, on the armored (read monied here) shoulders of Darcy (of course), and in the grand tradition of Feminists everywhere, turns her torture into a crusade.
Rest assured, Dear Reader. There are no lengthy, plagiarized passages lifted from the original text. There are no endless wedding breakfast menus. No tortuous descriptions of finery.
Simple action and angst, from beginning to end, with a sprinkling of familiar and lovable characters.
Rest assured, Dear Reader. There are no lengthy, plagiarized passages lifted from the original text. There are no endless wedding breakfast menus. No tortuous descriptions of finery.
Simple action and angst, from beginning to end, with a sprinkling of familiar and lovable characters.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Very historical on how women were treated, and when not able to control, even minor defects could be sent to a mad house, by basically any male, generally father or husband. Sent to be cured of having minds of their own. Extortion and blackmail by the owners of say mad houses.
Horrible that her dad treated her thus. Very disappointed with Mr. Bennet.
Grateful for Mr. Darcy, who still loves her, despite his rejected proposal, and that being the reason Mr. Bennet commits her. His love is what saves her, and her determination is what saves a lot of other women.
Oh my goodness, Wickham did to his wife what he would have probably have done to Georgiana. And the rescue that Mr. Darcy proceeded with and “Lizzy’s maid” was magnificent.
Very well written as always, very deep emotional story.
Horrible that her dad treated her thus. Very disappointed with Mr. Bennet.
Grateful for Mr. Darcy, who still loves her, despite his rejected proposal, and that being the reason Mr. Bennet commits her. His love is what saves her, and her determination is what saves a lot of other women.
Oh my goodness, Wickham did to his wife what he would have probably have done to Georgiana. And the rescue that Mr. Darcy proceeded with and “Lizzy’s maid” was magnificent.
Very well written as always, very deep emotional story.
October 17, 2026
Amy is one of my favourite authors and again this book does not disappoint. She touches upon quite sensitive topics in the Victorian era through a Pride and Prejudice lens and characters. She is very witty in her words and there is a lot of character banter which I'm very fond of. However, for this book considering the troupe, giving it a comedy lens would ruin the gravity of the situation. The entire plot is quite easy to keep up with it and I quite loved her style of writing. The book centres around Elizabeth being put into one of these so called "homes" for trouble ladies and Darcy rescuing her to ensure she has a normal life. It is ultimately a man's world where rich men are making decisions for women and don't tolerate walk who talk back and fight back just like today's world.
Loved this book overall, would defo recommend everyone to read it!
Loved this book overall, would defo recommend everyone to read it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2026
Wow I’m not sure what to say but this was a painful masterpiece! Unlike anything I’ve read before, with Amy’s careful storytelling and wonderful dialogue. A swoonworthy Darcy who has so much patience and love. What Elizabeth has to go through was literally heartbreaking, I cried several times and the angst of hearing what she went through, knowing that this isn’t really just fiction as women did go through experiences like this. I loved the whole Matlock family in this one but Saye was his usual light relief with incredible insight was a joy. A wonderful ending which I didn’t think would happen. All this being narrated by the incomparable Elizabeth Grace. This is my favourite audiobook of the year and will be a frequent re-listen!
October 7, 2026
Never “Mad”
I don’t want to ruin the story for anyone, so there will be no spoilers here. This is a wonderful story of a fracturing of trust within a family, a great love that leads to a rescue, and a new family learning how to love and trust. There is definitely a HEA for Elizabeth and Darcy that hard won but feels well-deserved.
This is yet another delightful novel by Amy that I love! I will definitely be adding it to my favorites list and will reread. I can’t wait for Amy’s next book to be offered for preorder so I can hit that “Buy” button for the ebook and it can be loaded to my Kindle on release day while I sleep 🥰 Keep ‘em coming Amy!!!
I don’t want to ruin the story for anyone, so there will be no spoilers here. This is a wonderful story of a fracturing of trust within a family, a great love that leads to a rescue, and a new family learning how to love and trust. There is definitely a HEA for Elizabeth and Darcy that hard won but feels well-deserved.
This is yet another delightful novel by Amy that I love! I will definitely be adding it to my favorites list and will reread. I can’t wait for Amy’s next book to be offered for preorder so I can hit that “Buy” button for the ebook and it can be loaded to my Kindle on release day while I sleep 🥰 Keep ‘em coming Amy!!!
October 10, 2026
Sad, But Exhilarating
The fact that Darcy was able to forge unassailable papers saying that he and Elizabeth were married to get her out of that gaol, um sanctuary, showed the depth of his love. The picture painted of the 'treatments' given in such places is horrific! Compliance was assured to prevent, or at least lesson, such 'beneficial' treatments.
MS D'Orazio has written a sad tale, but only because of its veracity. I especially enjoyed the force behind the changes that would be made. Not happy enough (except at the end) to repeat, but very worth the read.
The fact that Darcy was able to forge unassailable papers saying that he and Elizabeth were married to get her out of that gaol, um sanctuary, showed the depth of his love. The picture painted of the 'treatments' given in such places is horrific! Compliance was assured to prevent, or at least lesson, such 'beneficial' treatments.
MS D'Orazio has written a sad tale, but only because of its veracity. I especially enjoyed the force behind the changes that would be made. Not happy enough (except at the end) to repeat, but very worth the read.
October 10, 2026
An uncomfortable read, but worth it
Regency England was a difficult time for women. They belonged to their fathers until they married, and then they were the property of their husbands. The tales of imprisoning women for being ungovernable are well known. This book does not gloss over the barbaric methods used to treat these women, which makes for uncomfortable reading. Ms. D’Orazio has written of recovery from trauma exceedingly well, and the story of Elizabeth’s healing journey is told with compassion. This tale will stay with me for a very long time.
Regency England was a difficult time for women. They belonged to their fathers until they married, and then they were the property of their husbands. The tales of imprisoning women for being ungovernable are well known. This book does not gloss over the barbaric methods used to treat these women, which makes for uncomfortable reading. Ms. D’Orazio has written of recovery from trauma exceedingly well, and the story of Elizabeth’s healing journey is told with compassion. This tale will stay with me for a very long time.
October 16, 2026
Trauma and Tenderness
This is not a dreamy romance or low angst variation, but a powerful story of perseverance and love. Elizabeth pays the price for her personal standards when Mr. Bennet finds out that she rejected Mr. Darcy. What follows is an all too realistic (for the time) story that, while alarming at times, peels back a thin layer of civility to reveal a society that is romanticized. Darcy, with the help of his cousin, the viscount, and a brief cameo by the beloved Florizel, are our heroes. Leave yourself time to read this one. It’s hard to put down.
This is not a dreamy romance or low angst variation, but a powerful story of perseverance and love. Elizabeth pays the price for her personal standards when Mr. Bennet finds out that she rejected Mr. Darcy. What follows is an all too realistic (for the time) story that, while alarming at times, peels back a thin layer of civility to reveal a society that is romanticized. Darcy, with the help of his cousin, the viscount, and a brief cameo by the beloved Florizel, are our heroes. Leave yourself time to read this one. It’s hard to put down.
October 19, 2026
inconvenient
Despite this being quite a sober topic for a variation, I really did enjoy seeing Darcy and Elizabeth navigate this situation. Attaching a medical diagnosis to something that doesn’t fit with society’s expectations is simply dreadful. Seeing Elizabeth and women in this time deal with the fallout and the very slow road to recovery was heart wrenching and even anxiety provoking. Still, the love and dedication of a good man along with support of friends and family while holding fast to independent thought can clearly make a difference.
Despite this being quite a sober topic for a variation, I really did enjoy seeing Darcy and Elizabeth navigate this situation. Attaching a medical diagnosis to something that doesn’t fit with society’s expectations is simply dreadful. Seeing Elizabeth and women in this time deal with the fallout and the very slow road to recovery was heart wrenching and even anxiety provoking. Still, the love and dedication of a good man along with support of friends and family while holding fast to independent thought can clearly make a difference.
October 6, 2026
All too believable horrors
Although lifted by the inclusion of the ever-diverting Lord Saye, this harrowing story of Lizzy's imprisonment in a home for lunatic (read: inconvenient) gentlewomen, Darcy’s quest to rescue her, and ODC's long road to happiness highlights the inherent inequality between men and women in Regency England. Bonus points for a Darcy who uncharacteristically resorts to illegal acts to save the woman he loves.
Although lifted by the inclusion of the ever-diverting Lord Saye, this harrowing story of Lizzy's imprisonment in a home for lunatic (read: inconvenient) gentlewomen, Darcy’s quest to rescue her, and ODC's long road to happiness highlights the inherent inequality between men and women in Regency England. Bonus points for a Darcy who uncharacteristically resorts to illegal acts to save the woman he loves.
October 16, 2026
believe in Amy
If you’ve enjoyed other books by this author, you’re in for a treat. Such a unique variation! I felt that the topic was timely to the plight of women in the world today and the importance of women supporting other women. Loved these versions of E & D - something Amy always delivers. Lord Saye makes an appearance and is enjoyable as always. Look forward to the next story ❤️
If you’ve enjoyed other books by this author, you’re in for a treat. Such a unique variation! I felt that the topic was timely to the plight of women in the world today and the importance of women supporting other women. Loved these versions of E & D - something Amy always delivers. Lord Saye makes an appearance and is enjoyable as always. Look forward to the next story ❤️
October 5, 2026
A great book you won’t be able to put down!
I rarely leave a review but had to do so after reading this book. With all the AI variations now in the Pride and Prejudice variations it is hard to find a good and interesting book to read. I highly recommend this book and enjoyed the different storyline and found it so interesting that I read it in a day.
I rarely leave a review but had to do so after reading this book. With all the AI variations now in the Pride and Prejudice variations it is hard to find a good and interesting book to read. I highly recommend this book and enjoyed the different storyline and found it so interesting that I read it in a day.
October 6, 2026
Heavy topic but beautifully written
Beautifully written on a very heavy and deep topic. This was admittedly a "difficult" read in that it was emotionally heavy. But it's a wonderful book. Darcy's love for Elizabeth and the fact that he was truly her hero was so touching. Elizabeth's inner strength also shone through.
Beautifully written on a very heavy and deep topic. This was admittedly a "difficult" read in that it was emotionally heavy. But it's a wonderful book. Darcy's love for Elizabeth and the fact that he was truly her hero was so touching. Elizabeth's inner strength also shone through.
October 7, 2026
The story is so intriguing, it was hard to put the book down. It reminded me a lot of a biography of Elizabeth Packard that I read years ago (The Woman They Could Not Silence), and I think if you took Pride and Prejudice and The Woman They Could Not Silence, through them in a pot, and created a story based on both of them, you'd get Run Mad.
October 9, 2026
Sad and shocking
I suspect that there was some good amount of research that went into being able to write this book. It is fairly short but packed with a tight story. The Bennett it parents are cruel and selfish especially Mr Bennett. Not saying more, not spoiling. Well worth the read as is the usual case with this author.
I suspect that there was some good amount of research that went into being able to write this book. It is fairly short but packed with a tight story. The Bennett it parents are cruel and selfish especially Mr Bennett. Not saying more, not spoiling. Well worth the read as is the usual case with this author.
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October 23, 2026Lizzy in a loony bin!
Lizzy had always thought she was her father's favorite daughter-- until he decided that refusing Darcy's proposal at Hunsford (after already having refused Mr. Collins' proposal) goes too far, and Mr.Bennet sends her to a private asylum. Darcy rescues her with a forged marriage certificate- but can she trust any man again? Excellent story.
Lizzy had always thought she was her father's favorite daughter-- until he decided that refusing Darcy's proposal at Hunsford (after already having refused Mr. Collins' proposal) goes too far, and Mr.Bennet sends her to a private asylum. Darcy rescues her with a forged marriage certificate- but can she trust any man again? Excellent story.
October 5, 2026
I would give this 100 stars if I could
This is such a great book. Women have had to fight a long while to get where we are now, and some people want them to return to the past, submissive and ignorant. Hard to read but great story!
This is such a great book. Women have had to fight a long while to get where we are now, and some people want them to return to the past, submissive and ignorant. Hard to read but great story!
October 6, 2026
Dark and Gothic
The list of reasons why they committed women to asylums in those days is truly terrifying. Women were the property of their fathers and then husbands. They had no rights and medical care for them was inhumane torture. This was well done.
The list of reasons why they committed women to asylums in those days is truly terrifying. Women were the property of their fathers and then husbands. They had no rights and medical care for them was inhumane torture. This was well done.
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