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An Unwavering Trust
Two strangers with no one to turn to but each other…
Fitzwilliam Darcy is in a difficult situation. His father is pressing him to propose marriage to the last woman in the world he would wish to take as his wife. With a fortnight to announce his betrothal, he makes the acquaintance of Elizabeth Bennet, who is in a predicament of her own.
Could Darcy be willing to consider Elizabeth as a solution to his problem and to hers? And can Elizabeth ascertain enough of Darcy’s character to trust him upon nothing but a first impression?
Contains scenes with adult content.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is in a difficult situation. His father is pressing him to propose marriage to the last woman in the world he would wish to take as his wife. With a fortnight to announce his betrothal, he makes the acquaintance of Elizabeth Bennet, who is in a predicament of her own.
Could Darcy be willing to consider Elizabeth as a solution to his problem and to hers? And can Elizabeth ascertain enough of Darcy’s character to trust him upon nothing but a first impression?
Contains scenes with adult content.
454 pages, ebook
First published May 20, 2015
174 people are currently reading
216 people want to read
About the author
L.L. Diamond
36 books183 followersAmazon best selling author L. L. Diamond is more commonly known as Leslie to her friends, and Mom to her three kids. A native of Louisiana, she has spent the majority of her life living within an hour of New Orleans until she followed her husband to the ends of the earth as a military wife. Louisiana, Mississippi, California, Texas, New Mexico, Nebraska, England, Missouri, and now Maryland have all been called home along the way.
Aside from mother and writer, Leslie considers herself a perpetual student. She has degrees in biology and studio art, but will devour any subject of interest simply for the knowledge. As an artist, her concentration is in graphic design, but watercolor is her medium of choice with one of her watercolors featured on the cover of her second book, A Matter of Chance. She is a member of the Jane Austen Society of North America. She also plays flute and piano, but much like Elizabeth Bennet, she is always in need of practice!
Aside from mother and writer, Leslie considers herself a perpetual student. She has degrees in biology and studio art, but will devour any subject of interest simply for the knowledge. As an artist, her concentration is in graphic design, but watercolor is her medium of choice with one of her watercolors featured on the cover of her second book, A Matter of Chance. She is a member of the Jane Austen Society of North America. She also plays flute and piano, but much like Elizabeth Bennet, she is always in need of practice!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
June 3, 2017
At 452 pages for the paperback you know this is a nice long read. This author gives us a tale with some mystery and intrigue aspects besides the whole forced marriage aspect. There is more than one attempt at blackmail throughout this story: from an attempt to force marriage to an attempt to steal a dowry to an attempt to force silence from a peer who deals in human trafficking/sex trade. There are false clues planted to lead some miscreants astray and there is the whole tragedy of the carriage accident causing the death of all the Bennets except Elizabeth.
The accident occurred 7 months prior to the onset of this story. Elizabeth has suffered major injuries and is comatose during parts of her recovery in the Lucas household. Longbourn has passed to Mr. Collins, Sr. The only relatives left are her Aunt and Uncle Philips (the latter, again, a solicitor in Meryton) and her Uncle Gardiner. Mr. Gardiner is not the gentle, wise and financially secure uncle we read of in canon. In fact, he has lost his fiancée and has tempted fate in his dealings in smuggling and in his financial relationships. The crux of Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s meeting and their relationship rests on one of the aforementioned attempts at blackmail: Darcy at the hands of his father, George Darcy, who lives at Pemberley with 13 year-old Georgiana and Elizabeth through her Uncle Gardiner’s pressures on her co-guardian, Uncle Philips.
I found the initial discussions, the questioning and answers, the background given, between Elizabeth and Darcy (and her uncle) gratifying. They truly sought to learn as much about each other in the short amount of time given in an emergency setting. Darcy and Uncle Philips seemed to pay careful attention to the paperwork and arrangements. Even in the ride to Ashcroft, the residence of the Dowager Duchess, Darcy pays attention to and communicates with Elizabeth. Is he acting in a state of shock, of numbness?…as later we again witness our silent moody Darcy staring at Elizabeth.
Other reviews have stated dissatisfaction with several things in this tale: one is the way in which the villains are dealt with or not until the very end and another is the fact of Darcy’s residency in his estate, Sagemore, in northern Oxfordshire. Yes, it was difficult to accept that Darcy did not live at Pemberley but this vagary seemed to work well in how this story was explained. I did, however, keep expecting to read more of the villains: I expected a kidnapping attempt at the least. But I was satisfied in how things played out.
Several characters have major roles here, one with whom we are somewhat acquainted, Georgiana, continues under her father’s guardianship but has a close and loving role with her brother. That relationship is used against Darcy. But Georgiana is not without her resources or her ideas. She extracts a promise from her brother to counteract her father’s demands. (“You want me to find someone and wed within a fortnight?”) Then there is Grandmamma, the Dowager Duchess of Matlock, Rebecca Fitzwilliam, step-mother to Lady Catherine. I loved the part she played in so many scenarios; from scolding Darcy for his demeanor to her part in letters sent on the sly to her relationship with Elizabeth, etc. Grandmamma is a force with which to be reckoned. Darcy’s family plays one against the other: from Uncle Henry and Aunt Elinor in cahoots with Grandmamma to his father to Lady Catherine and her daughter, Anne. Richard is present for only part of the story but there is a sister who has a role in this story. Bingley and his sisters, too, factor in.
There are many day-to-day details which some have stated to be boring. Elizabeth is still in mourning for her family so her wardrobe choices are of importance as she wants to honor their memory but also wants to be accepted into fashionable ton…wanting to fit when the whole engagement is so sudden and bordering on scandalous. Then there are complaints about decorating details. I would usually agree with those complaints. Yes, the comparison between Pemberley and Rosings has been brought to our attention before as Elizabeth viewed both. But in this tale details about the use of more light and pleasing fabrics, wall hangings and furniture reflect a choice to honor a dear soul who has not had the most pleasant of lives and who has had any decision derided by her own mother.
One thing of note to some: there are sex scenes in this book. And, personally, I appreciated the way in which this experience between two chaste individuals was gradually brought to its richest. I am not going to go into details but I believe the author was much more realistic in this area than many authors who have everyone with the best physical experience in their first time together.
The accident occurred 7 months prior to the onset of this story. Elizabeth has suffered major injuries and is comatose during parts of her recovery in the Lucas household. Longbourn has passed to Mr. Collins, Sr. The only relatives left are her Aunt and Uncle Philips (the latter, again, a solicitor in Meryton) and her Uncle Gardiner. Mr. Gardiner is not the gentle, wise and financially secure uncle we read of in canon. In fact, he has lost his fiancée and has tempted fate in his dealings in smuggling and in his financial relationships. The crux of Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s meeting and their relationship rests on one of the aforementioned attempts at blackmail: Darcy at the hands of his father, George Darcy, who lives at Pemberley with 13 year-old Georgiana and Elizabeth through her Uncle Gardiner’s pressures on her co-guardian, Uncle Philips.
I found the initial discussions, the questioning and answers, the background given, between Elizabeth and Darcy (and her uncle) gratifying. They truly sought to learn as much about each other in the short amount of time given in an emergency setting. Darcy and Uncle Philips seemed to pay careful attention to the paperwork and arrangements. Even in the ride to Ashcroft, the residence of the Dowager Duchess, Darcy pays attention to and communicates with Elizabeth. Is he acting in a state of shock, of numbness?…as later we again witness our silent moody Darcy staring at Elizabeth.
Other reviews have stated dissatisfaction with several things in this tale: one is the way in which the villains are dealt with or not until the very end and another is the fact of Darcy’s residency in his estate, Sagemore, in northern Oxfordshire. Yes, it was difficult to accept that Darcy did not live at Pemberley but this vagary seemed to work well in how this story was explained. I did, however, keep expecting to read more of the villains: I expected a kidnapping attempt at the least. But I was satisfied in how things played out.
Several characters have major roles here, one with whom we are somewhat acquainted, Georgiana, continues under her father’s guardianship but has a close and loving role with her brother. That relationship is used against Darcy. But Georgiana is not without her resources or her ideas. She extracts a promise from her brother to counteract her father’s demands. (“You want me to find someone and wed within a fortnight?”) Then there is Grandmamma, the Dowager Duchess of Matlock, Rebecca Fitzwilliam, step-mother to Lady Catherine. I loved the part she played in so many scenarios; from scolding Darcy for his demeanor to her part in letters sent on the sly to her relationship with Elizabeth, etc. Grandmamma is a force with which to be reckoned. Darcy’s family plays one against the other: from Uncle Henry and Aunt Elinor in cahoots with Grandmamma to his father to Lady Catherine and her daughter, Anne. Richard is present for only part of the story but there is a sister who has a role in this story. Bingley and his sisters, too, factor in.
There are many day-to-day details which some have stated to be boring. Elizabeth is still in mourning for her family so her wardrobe choices are of importance as she wants to honor their memory but also wants to be accepted into fashionable ton…wanting to fit when the whole engagement is so sudden and bordering on scandalous. Then there are complaints about decorating details. I would usually agree with those complaints. Yes, the comparison between Pemberley and Rosings has been brought to our attention before as Elizabeth viewed both. But in this tale details about the use of more light and pleasing fabrics, wall hangings and furniture reflect a choice to honor a dear soul who has not had the most pleasant of lives and who has had any decision derided by her own mother.
One thing of note to some: there are sex scenes in this book. And, personally, I appreciated the way in which this experience between two chaste individuals was gradually brought to its richest. I am not going to go into details but I believe the author was much more realistic in this area than many authors who have everyone with the best physical experience in their first time together.
July 6, 2017
I wanted to read this P&P variation forever and when it was put on sale I jumped on it. This is a very very very different variation where all of Bennets, except Lizzy, have died and Lizzy is living with the Phillips in Meryton. Further George Darcy is still alive and coddling Wickham and trying to run Fitzwilliam's life.
As part of his iron fist program he has demanded that Fitzwilliam go to Rosings and propose and be accepted by Anne deBourgh within a fortnight or he, Darcy Sr., will announce the engagement. Darcy already has his own estate; left to him by an Uncle in Oxfordshire. Before he leaves Pemberley he is offered advice from his 13 year old sister - why not marry someone else? On his trip to London to visit the Dowager countess Matlock, Anne Darcy's mother Fitzwilliam's grandmother, he stops in Meryton. While resting he overhears a dreadful conversation where one man (Mr. Gardiner) tells another (Mr. Phillips) that he is deeply indebted and his only way out is to use Lizzy and her dowry to settle it. He explains that he will turn Lizzy over to a procurer of women and settle his debt. (What a douche). After the evil man leaves Darcy follows the other man and offers to solve his problem. He will take Lizzy to London and keep her safe from her threat.
He meets Lizzy and they quickly conclude the only way she will be safe from her uncle is if they marry. And in no time Lizzy & Darcy are off to London plotting to thwart her Uncle and his father.
They go to his Grandmother's house where Lizzy is quickly loved by the family and the wedding is quickly planned. Darcy acts like an ass- Grandmama sets him down and straightens him out. After the wedding we are shown how both Darcy and Lizzy are afraid of their burgeoning attraction to one another and afraid to confess their feelings. So there is some drama and angst.
And we get some hints of badness from Uncle Gardiner, Darcy Sr., Lady Catherine, Caroline Bingley and Wickham but in almost every case the angst & drama is contained and resolved quickly. instead we are given angst of Lizzy be thrown from a horse, Lizzy not knowing she is with child, Darcy worrying about her pregnancy.
What I wanted from the book was much more baddies and their badness. George Darcy's reason for demanding Fitzwilliam marry Anne is never really explained. It would have been awesome if Lady Catherine was blackmailing him or had lent him money or had some sort of story about Georgiana. I wanted Caroline Bingley to be more of a thorn in Lizzy's side, but alas her one snarky bit is overheard by Fitzwilliam and nipped in the bud. And in reality Lady Catherine's only victim is Anne and once she is thwarted she surrenders to a greater force. Even Wickham doesn't do anything more than in canon and his pernicious habits are quickly revealed to and accepted by Mr. Darcy.
What this book does offer is a lot of carriage trips.
As part of his iron fist program he has demanded that Fitzwilliam go to Rosings and propose and be accepted by Anne deBourgh within a fortnight or he, Darcy Sr., will announce the engagement. Darcy already has his own estate; left to him by an Uncle in Oxfordshire. Before he leaves Pemberley he is offered advice from his 13 year old sister - why not marry someone else? On his trip to London to visit the Dowager countess Matlock, Anne Darcy's mother Fitzwilliam's grandmother, he stops in Meryton. While resting he overhears a dreadful conversation where one man (Mr. Gardiner) tells another (Mr. Phillips) that he is deeply indebted and his only way out is to use Lizzy and her dowry to settle it. He explains that he will turn Lizzy over to a procurer of women and settle his debt. (What a douche). After the evil man leaves Darcy follows the other man and offers to solve his problem. He will take Lizzy to London and keep her safe from her threat.
He meets Lizzy and they quickly conclude the only way she will be safe from her uncle is if they marry. And in no time Lizzy & Darcy are off to London plotting to thwart her Uncle and his father.
They go to his Grandmother's house where Lizzy is quickly loved by the family and the wedding is quickly planned. Darcy acts like an ass- Grandmama sets him down and straightens him out. After the wedding we are shown how both Darcy and Lizzy are afraid of their burgeoning attraction to one another and afraid to confess their feelings. So there is some drama and angst.
And we get some hints of badness from Uncle Gardiner, Darcy Sr., Lady Catherine, Caroline Bingley and Wickham but in almost every case the angst & drama is contained and resolved quickly. instead we are given angst of Lizzy be thrown from a horse, Lizzy not knowing she is with child, Darcy worrying about her pregnancy.
What I wanted from the book was much more baddies and their badness. George Darcy's reason for demanding Fitzwilliam marry Anne is never really explained. It would have been awesome if Lady Catherine was blackmailing him or had lent him money or had some sort of story about Georgiana. I wanted Caroline Bingley to be more of a thorn in Lizzy's side, but alas her one snarky bit is overheard by Fitzwilliam and nipped in the bud. And in reality Lady Catherine's only victim is Anne and once she is thwarted she surrenders to a greater force. Even Wickham doesn't do anything more than in canon and his pernicious habits are quickly revealed to and accepted by Mr. Darcy.
What this book does offer is a lot of carriage trips.
May 28, 2017
This is almost a complete departure from the traditional Pride and Prejudice story. Mr. Darcy Sr. is still alive (but at odds with Darcy) and, aside from Elizabeth, all the Bennet family is dead before the story even begins. Mr. Gardiner is a desperate man who has made poor business decisions in the wake of his fiancee's death and owes more money than he can afford to pay back to some shady characters. He shares guardianship of Elizabeth with her Uncle Phillips, who is the one caring for her. While many of the other supporting characters from the original book still appear (Georgiana, Wickham, Bingley and his sisters, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Lady Catherine and Anne), there is a whole new cast of characters surrounding our hero and heroine, particularly Darcy's maternal grandmother and other Fitzwilliam relatives. The settings are mostly different, with large chunks of the story placed in London and in Sagemore (Darcy's estate inherited from an uncle). Even the timeline is different - the action (aside from HEA details) concludes prior to the infamous Meryton assembly and the characters are proportionately younger.
All of these drastic modifications could put off some Jane Austen purists, but this story is well constructed with wonderfully well-rounded characters, and it's beautifully written without a trace of grammar or spelling errors. (Well, I did catch one misuse of "effect" that should have been "affect," but in such a long, satisfying book, I was happy to forgive the uncharacteristic lapse.) Most importantly to those who love lots of Elizabeth and Darcy togetherness, they remain front and center with an appropriate amount of angst to maintain the dramatic tension throughout the book before all is finally resolved after the crisis in Ramsgate.
All of these drastic modifications could put off some Jane Austen purists, but this story is well constructed with wonderfully well-rounded characters, and it's beautifully written without a trace of grammar or spelling errors. (Well, I did catch one misuse of "effect" that should have been "affect," but in such a long, satisfying book, I was happy to forgive the uncharacteristic lapse.) Most importantly to those who love lots of Elizabeth and Darcy togetherness, they remain front and center with an appropriate amount of angst to maintain the dramatic tension throughout the book before all is finally resolved after the crisis in Ramsgate.
May 6, 2024
I gave 4 stars instead of 5 because I was disappointed at the abrupt resolution of the "bad guy" (not Wickham)
Darcy decides to let "well-enough" alone because of fears the villain will harm Elizabeth. I expected that villain to appear for his comeuppance through the rest of the book but he isn't mentioned again until the epilogue and that story is wrapped up in a couple of paragraphs.
As I neared the conclusion, I expected that villain would be dealt with in a possible Part 2 to this story -- and even though multiple installments are "my abhorrence" I would buy a Part 2 because I very much liked this story!
Darcy decides to let "well-enough" alone because of fears the villain will harm Elizabeth. I expected that villain to appear for his comeuppance through the rest of the book but he isn't mentioned again until the epilogue and that story is wrapped up in a couple of paragraphs.
As I neared the conclusion, I expected that villain would be dealt with in a possible Part 2 to this story -- and even though multiple installments are "my abhorrence" I would buy a Part 2 because I very much liked this story!
March 17, 2017
“The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other’s life.” Richard Bach
Poor Elizabeth has survived a carriage accident that claimed the lives of all her family. The elder Mr. Collins immediately took over Longbourn as Elizabeth was unconscious and recovering at another location. She was later moved to her Aunt and Uncle Philips residence in Meryton.
Fast forward in time and we have Fitzwilliam Darcy going toe-to-toe with his father over his marrying his cousin Anne. George Darcy gives him an ultimatum… he has a fortnight to go to Rosings and do his duty and propose to Anne. If he does not, George Darcy will travel to London and make the announcement himself.
As Darcy was traveling to London, he made a stop in Meryton and overheard Gardiner and Philips discussing their niece. Gardiner had made a bad business connection with an unsavory partner and needed a cash flow to offset his debts. He was considering using his niece and her dowry as payment toward that debt. Philips was against the deal but Gardiner was adamant. Darcy spoke to Philips about giving the niece a ride to London. After meeting her, he decided to marry her, thus solving both of their problems.
Once in London, Darcy took Lizzy to his grandmother’s, the Dowager Countess Lady Matlock. She was a character featured in The Earl’s Conquest. I absolutely loved her. She is adorable and likes Lizzy immediately and takes her under her wing.
This story was off-off canon and I adore these characters. They are a bit OOC [out of character], but we have to remember they are different people. They have experienced a life totally different from canon and therefore, their responses are different. ‘We are who we are because of, or in spite of past experiences.’ I love this D&E. They have a hard time preparing for a quick wedding as they have to stay two steps ahead of Lady Catherine and George Darcy.
Villains and Villainess: Caroline Bingley and her sister Mrs. Hurst… we have their cutting snide remarks, which are overheard by D&E. Darcy reacts immediately and that was most excellent. We have Lady Catherine and her tirade. Wickham was ever present with Mrs. Younge. George Darcy still favored him over his son and even Georgiana. He simply would not believe any tales against the son of his good friend, the elder Mr. Wickham. Man, does he ever have an eye-opening experience. Uncle Edward Gardiner… I have never so disliked a person in my life. Miss Margaret, the love of his life, died before they married. He never recovered from her loss, never married and his life fell apart and we see what he had become. There were other villains and I was worried what they would do.
This was a story about family. Whether they were of blood or not. I loved how the Fitzwilliam family rallied around Elizabeth and helped her and Darcy create their wonderful life. It was so cute. The Epilogue was most excellent.
There will be laughter, gasps of horror, worry over the grief and angst galore. I nearly cried several times and I loved the Dowager Matlock.
Rating: MA: Mature Audience: explicit sex scene with a married couple. Yeah, they go into the bedroom. However, it was tastefully done, and very steamy.
Poor Elizabeth has survived a carriage accident that claimed the lives of all her family. The elder Mr. Collins immediately took over Longbourn as Elizabeth was unconscious and recovering at another location. She was later moved to her Aunt and Uncle Philips residence in Meryton.
Fast forward in time and we have Fitzwilliam Darcy going toe-to-toe with his father over his marrying his cousin Anne. George Darcy gives him an ultimatum… he has a fortnight to go to Rosings and do his duty and propose to Anne. If he does not, George Darcy will travel to London and make the announcement himself.
As Darcy was traveling to London, he made a stop in Meryton and overheard Gardiner and Philips discussing their niece. Gardiner had made a bad business connection with an unsavory partner and needed a cash flow to offset his debts. He was considering using his niece and her dowry as payment toward that debt. Philips was against the deal but Gardiner was adamant. Darcy spoke to Philips about giving the niece a ride to London. After meeting her, he decided to marry her, thus solving both of their problems.
Once in London, Darcy took Lizzy to his grandmother’s, the Dowager Countess Lady Matlock. She was a character featured in The Earl’s Conquest. I absolutely loved her. She is adorable and likes Lizzy immediately and takes her under her wing.
This story was off-off canon and I adore these characters. They are a bit OOC [out of character], but we have to remember they are different people. They have experienced a life totally different from canon and therefore, their responses are different. ‘We are who we are because of, or in spite of past experiences.’ I love this D&E. They have a hard time preparing for a quick wedding as they have to stay two steps ahead of Lady Catherine and George Darcy.
Villains and Villainess: Caroline Bingley and her sister Mrs. Hurst… we have their cutting snide remarks, which are overheard by D&E. Darcy reacts immediately and that was most excellent. We have Lady Catherine and her tirade. Wickham was ever present with Mrs. Younge. George Darcy still favored him over his son and even Georgiana. He simply would not believe any tales against the son of his good friend, the elder Mr. Wickham. Man, does he ever have an eye-opening experience. Uncle Edward Gardiner… I have never so disliked a person in my life. Miss Margaret, the love of his life, died before they married. He never recovered from her loss, never married and his life fell apart and we see what he had become. There were other villains and I was worried what they would do.
This was a story about family. Whether they were of blood or not. I loved how the Fitzwilliam family rallied around Elizabeth and helped her and Darcy create their wonderful life. It was so cute. The Epilogue was most excellent.
There will be laughter, gasps of horror, worry over the grief and angst galore. I nearly cried several times and I loved the Dowager Matlock.
Rating: MA: Mature Audience: explicit sex scene with a married couple. Yeah, they go into the bedroom. However, it was tastefully done, and very steamy.
May 14, 2024
When I first began reading this, I remembered that I didn't want to read it due to Uncle Gardiner being a big bad. Thankfully despite that, he actually has a small part in the whole book. And of course, he was the impetus to get ODC together in the first place.
My only problem with the whole book is Elizabeth usually owes some of her grace and propriety to her uncle and aunt Gardiner, who are not a factor in this book. So how she grew to be herself is a little unclear. Tiny hole in the plot, but doesn't take away from this story of loss and love.
Darcy and Elizabeth are both in a tight position and marry to solve it for both. E has lost almost her whole family and is welcomed by most of D's. Their relationship grows and finds happiness, with some struggles, family dynamics helping and interfering along the way.
It starts in 1810 and Darcy is 25? 4 years after his come-out. Elizabeth is 18-19?
So far, this is my favorite by this author and does not disappoint!
4.5* - 2022- My second time reading this and I liked it just as much as the first time.
There is something compelling about a variation that is so different, it uses the characters and is more like a retelling than a variation.
Both our hero and heroine are in difficult situations. D is being forced to marry Anne by his father and E's uncle Gardiner (!) is going to trade her in for his debts to a vile man.
Fate brings them together and they wed.
They fall in love during their honeymoon in Bath, she becomes preggers and all kinds of other drama ensues.
It is a well written, enjoyable story, with HEA in the end.
My only problem with the whole book is Elizabeth usually owes some of her grace and propriety to her uncle and aunt Gardiner, who are not a factor in this book. So how she grew to be herself is a little unclear. Tiny hole in the plot, but doesn't take away from this story of loss and love.
Darcy and Elizabeth are both in a tight position and marry to solve it for both. E has lost almost her whole family and is welcomed by most of D's. Their relationship grows and finds happiness, with some struggles, family dynamics helping and interfering along the way.
It starts in 1810 and Darcy is 25? 4 years after his come-out. Elizabeth is 18-19?
So far, this is my favorite by this author and does not disappoint!
4.5* - 2022- My second time reading this and I liked it just as much as the first time.
There is something compelling about a variation that is so different, it uses the characters and is more like a retelling than a variation.
Both our hero and heroine are in difficult situations. D is being forced to marry Anne by his father and E's uncle Gardiner (!) is going to trade her in for his debts to a vile man.
Fate brings them together and they wed.
They fall in love during their honeymoon in Bath, she becomes preggers and all kinds of other drama ensues.
It is a well written, enjoyable story, with HEA in the end.
February 7, 2024
I love this book. I've read it 3 times in 18 months. It's so inventive. The storytelling just flows so smoothly. The only negative I can think of is the beginning is pretty sad and dark....but that's the way the story has to be to set the rest of the emotions for the rest of the book. Really I would say you must buy this book and read it. If you are a fast reader I would suggest you might slow down for this variation. The story and the writing should be savored like any exceptional experience to maximize your enjoyment.
December 8, 2025
Excellent!
This story was great. I couldn’t put it down. I loved all of the character portrayals, especially Grandmamma. The Fitzwilliam family was so endearing. I was upset at first that Uncle Gardiner would be as he was in this story, but I suppose it made this particular storyline work. I know I’m being vague, but I hate to divulge spoilers. The mature content was not offensive and it was well written. I enjoyed reading a scenario where there was no influence by the immediate Bennet family (other than Gardiner). It made for a wonderful story even without them.
I really have enjoyed the books I’ve read by this author. It is such a pleasure to read a variation without numerous instances of improper grammar and simple proofreading errors. Thank you!
January 20, 2022 - Audiobook
Wasn’t too crazy about the narrator on this one. Still love the story though.
This story was great. I couldn’t put it down. I loved all of the character portrayals, especially Grandmamma. The Fitzwilliam family was so endearing. I was upset at first that Uncle Gardiner would be as he was in this story, but I suppose it made this particular storyline work. I know I’m being vague, but I hate to divulge spoilers. The mature content was not offensive and it was well written. I enjoyed reading a scenario where there was no influence by the immediate Bennet family (other than Gardiner). It made for a wonderful story even without them.
I really have enjoyed the books I’ve read by this author. It is such a pleasure to read a variation without numerous instances of improper grammar and simple proofreading errors. Thank you!
January 20, 2022 - Audiobook
Wasn’t too crazy about the narrator on this one. Still love the story though.
April 12, 2025
Beautiful story of love and trust. What an interesting scenario for Darcy and Elizabeth. There is suspense but most of it is easily resolved (would have liked a bit more mayhem). But I loved the writing and the beautiful story of D and E's relationship. Bravo! I have now read this 2x.
November 13, 2021
I loved this book and the author. Well written and a different story. If you are looking for a typical variation or do not like when an author changes the basics of Austen characters, you may want to skip it. I found these changes to be some of the things I liked most about it. It was refreshing.
Reread: I loved it. Grandmamma was fantastic!
Reread: Love it but not one part with D's inaction.
Reread: Still wondering why D wouldn't act against you-know-what. Love it anyway.
Reread: I loved it. Grandmamma was fantastic!
Reread: Love it but not one part with D's inaction.
Reread: Still wondering why D wouldn't act against you-know-what. Love it anyway.
June 20, 2017
This one is 3.5 for me. (It's my first time giving half stars, yay!).
December 29, 2015
Lovely variation!!!
This was definitely a new twist on P&P. It had me hooked from the start and I enjoyed the ride. I always love watching the Darcys fall in love... It's a beautiful story in many places... In some places it's a little too contrived... But it works!!! The new characters are great but I missed the Bennet family throughout the book. And Darcy without Pemberley is like having him without his soul... What's Scarlett without Tara?? What's Darcy without Pemberley??? I did like their other homes but Pemberley is really the life and soul of Fitzwilliam Darcy... All in all... A wonderful read!!!
This was definitely a new twist on P&P. It had me hooked from the start and I enjoyed the ride. I always love watching the Darcys fall in love... It's a beautiful story in many places... In some places it's a little too contrived... But it works!!! The new characters are great but I missed the Bennet family throughout the book. And Darcy without Pemberley is like having him without his soul... What's Scarlett without Tara?? What's Darcy without Pemberley??? I did like their other homes but Pemberley is really the life and soul of Fitzwilliam Darcy... All in all... A wonderful read!!!
June 24, 2021
The relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth in this book is the most beautiful ride-or-die connection I have ever read. The premise swap of Darcy Sr. being alive and the Bennets all perished in a carriage accident allowed for a completely new story inside the tried and true world of P&P.
I have read this book over and over and over. I seem to come back to it at when I'm in the mood for something uplifting and comfortable. When it was on Scribd, it never left my library and I just purchased the print version so that I don't have to be without it whenever I want a good friend.
I have read this book over and over and over. I seem to come back to it at when I'm in the mood for something uplifting and comfortable. When it was on Scribd, it never left my library and I just purchased the print version so that I don't have to be without it whenever I want a good friend.
July 18, 2017
Apprehension is the best way to describe my feelings when beginning this book. I feared because others warned of angst. I hate angst. The story opens to the divided Darcy men. It was hard to watch. The image that appears in my mind when picturing Fitzwilliam is a man who takes great pride in presenting himself as intelligent, dignified, prideful and gentlemanly. All qualities that were boasted to be learned from his father. The late and great Mr. Darcy. However, he is alive and well in this book. Well he is breathing but only half the man we suspect him to be from the original. Yes, get ready for disappointment as father and son are at odds and Wickham sits in the middle of it. I resented Darcy, Sr. in this one at times. How could any man take a stewards sons word over his own? How could a father of such a vast legacy allow his wife's sister persuade him to dictate to his heir that love was not an ingredient for a happy marriage? This is a man we know had a love match and yet he chose not to fight for his son to have the same happiness. Ripping the family apart he demands Darcy to do his duty and marry Anne Debourg or he will disinherit him.
As luck would have it he is pushed into the path of his destiny that forces him to assist Elizabeth and her uncle Phillips to take immediate action to protect her from her uncle Gardiner. Lizzy is the only remaining Bennet. The story has quite a few changes but one thing I loved was that through it all D&E stood hand in hand. It was such a relief to know the angst does not come from our couple being separate. It is all the villains you will recognize and some you didn't expect. The book for all the love felt by our couple, while enjoyable, is a very long winded story that is complete with a satisfying epilogue. That would be my only complaint is that some things could have been condensed. I dare say too much on this as so many novellas are everywhere now. I appreciate the full length story and don't hold it too harshly against the author. I also want to mention that Diamond does not riddle her pages with countless tales of lovemaking that some find tiresome. They're explicit in the beginning and we get to see the couple bond and grow together. They were positively adorable in their affection and care for one another. Lastly, I loved seeing Darcy's interaction with his cousin Fitzwilliam. It made me feel closer to the characters seeing Darcy talking and joking about his new marriage with his cousin as two everyday men would do. Glad my apprehension was for not. Enjoy!
As luck would have it he is pushed into the path of his destiny that forces him to assist Elizabeth and her uncle Phillips to take immediate action to protect her from her uncle Gardiner. Lizzy is the only remaining Bennet. The story has quite a few changes but one thing I loved was that through it all D&E stood hand in hand. It was such a relief to know the angst does not come from our couple being separate. It is all the villains you will recognize and some you didn't expect. The book for all the love felt by our couple, while enjoyable, is a very long winded story that is complete with a satisfying epilogue. That would be my only complaint is that some things could have been condensed. I dare say too much on this as so many novellas are everywhere now. I appreciate the full length story and don't hold it too harshly against the author. I also want to mention that Diamond does not riddle her pages with countless tales of lovemaking that some find tiresome. They're explicit in the beginning and we get to see the couple bond and grow together. They were positively adorable in their affection and care for one another. Lastly, I loved seeing Darcy's interaction with his cousin Fitzwilliam. It made me feel closer to the characters seeing Darcy talking and joking about his new marriage with his cousin as two everyday men would do. Glad my apprehension was for not. Enjoy!
June 30, 2015
3.5 stars! A Marriage of Salvation for Two Completely Strangers!
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Variation
SETTING: An Alternate Starting Point from P&P – April 1810, before Darcy and Elizabeth have met
MAIN CHARACTERS: Darcy, Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. George Darcy, Lady Catherine, Rebecca Matlock (Darcy’s grandmother), Mr. Gardiner
SYNOPSIS:
- Poor Darcy – What if Mr. George Darcy was still alive and was more insistent than Lady Catherine about Darcy marrying his cousin Anne? What if he gave Darcy a two-week ultimatum to propose on his own or be disowned and never see Georgiana again?
- Poor Elizabeth – What if a horrific carriage accident left Elizabeth as the sole survivor in the care of her two uncles – Mr. Phillips and Mr. Gardiner (who is involved with smuggling instead of respectable trade)? What if Mr. Gardiner, desperate for funds, plans to trade Elizabeth to his so-called business partner to absolve himself of some of his debt?
- What if Darcy overheard this plan and felt compelled to rescue this unknown and friendless young maiden? What if they find a plan that mutually helps both of them escape their undesired situations…
WHAT I LOVED:
- A Wholly Unique Premise: As you can tell from the synopsis, this is a big divergence from our typical Pride and Prejudice canon. With such drastic alterations there is very little in common with P&P – in fact this story could probably work just as well as a standalone traditional Regency romance. I loved this unique premise! There was desperation, danger, a daring rescue – it was fascinating and gripping! I don’t mind a change in scenario or alteration in character as long as they don’t suspend disbelief too far and are fairly plausible (which these changes were!)
- A Family Affair: In this variation the focus is on the Darcy and Fitzwilliam families, rather than the Bennets! I absolutely adored Darcy’s no-nonsense and spirited grandmother! She is extremely loyal to her family, fearless, quick-witted, and has a compassionate and selfless nature. The Darcys are extremely fortunate to have her support! In addition, I loved spending time with the other Fitzwilliam relations – seeing them come together and assist each other when faced against Lady Catherine and Mr. George Darcy warmed my heart! I especially loved witnessing their reactions when these oppressive opponents tried to selfishly get their way.
- Sweet and Sensual Romance: Similar to her first novel, Rain and Retribution, Ms. Diamond places Darcy and Elizabeth in a forced situation where they hardly know each and beautifully develops their relationships with gradual understanding and affection. I loved witnessing how their feelings slowly and tentatively progressed and seeing Darcy so protective, caring, and utterly besotted. The burgeoning and passionate romance between them was so lovely to witness, and that moment when Darcy pulls Elizabeth closer in bed and tells her “I promise I will not bite…” (can you say swoon???)
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- The Premise Had So Much Potential: This part of the review is hard for me because I was so very much engaged and riveted to the first half of this book! The dangerous plots and situations, the sinister and scheming antagonists, and the uncertainty of what they would do when their plans were foiled – it was all so gripping! However, it seemed the second half of the book did not hold the same energy and excitement, it felt like all the antagonists were in retreat or eliminated. We saw a lot more of the day-to-day activities of normal life and Elizabeth’s pregnancy than anything else. And while it was lovely to see Darcy and Elizabeth after marriage, I missed the thrilling conflict we had in the beginning.
- Some Small/Nagging Quibbles (SPOILER ALERT!): Some things just didn’t sit right with me in this tale – like the treatment of Lady Catherine after Anne’s death, Georgiana’s amazing awareness and forethought around Wickham, and how Thomas Grayson (who seemed to be the most sinister villain in this story) pretty much disappeared until a passing mention of his fate in the epilogue.
WARNING:
Some intimate and sensual scenes (which weren’t too explicit or frequent!) Recommended for Mature Audiences.
CONCLUSION:
The imaginative premise, daring character alterations, and inspiring romance in this variation are what I love best about L.L. Diamond’s prose. In An Unwavering Trust, L.L. Diamond creates a fascinating and inventive Pride and Prejudice variation that will be sure to surprise and delight readers who enjoy seeing these characters overcome new challenges and atypical obstacles!
Austenesque Reviews
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Variation
SETTING: An Alternate Starting Point from P&P – April 1810, before Darcy and Elizabeth have met
MAIN CHARACTERS: Darcy, Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. George Darcy, Lady Catherine, Rebecca Matlock (Darcy’s grandmother), Mr. Gardiner
SYNOPSIS:
- Poor Darcy – What if Mr. George Darcy was still alive and was more insistent than Lady Catherine about Darcy marrying his cousin Anne? What if he gave Darcy a two-week ultimatum to propose on his own or be disowned and never see Georgiana again?
- Poor Elizabeth – What if a horrific carriage accident left Elizabeth as the sole survivor in the care of her two uncles – Mr. Phillips and Mr. Gardiner (who is involved with smuggling instead of respectable trade)? What if Mr. Gardiner, desperate for funds, plans to trade Elizabeth to his so-called business partner to absolve himself of some of his debt?
- What if Darcy overheard this plan and felt compelled to rescue this unknown and friendless young maiden? What if they find a plan that mutually helps both of them escape their undesired situations…
WHAT I LOVED:
- A Wholly Unique Premise: As you can tell from the synopsis, this is a big divergence from our typical Pride and Prejudice canon. With such drastic alterations there is very little in common with P&P – in fact this story could probably work just as well as a standalone traditional Regency romance. I loved this unique premise! There was desperation, danger, a daring rescue – it was fascinating and gripping! I don’t mind a change in scenario or alteration in character as long as they don’t suspend disbelief too far and are fairly plausible (which these changes were!)
- A Family Affair: In this variation the focus is on the Darcy and Fitzwilliam families, rather than the Bennets! I absolutely adored Darcy’s no-nonsense and spirited grandmother! She is extremely loyal to her family, fearless, quick-witted, and has a compassionate and selfless nature. The Darcys are extremely fortunate to have her support! In addition, I loved spending time with the other Fitzwilliam relations – seeing them come together and assist each other when faced against Lady Catherine and Mr. George Darcy warmed my heart! I especially loved witnessing their reactions when these oppressive opponents tried to selfishly get their way.
- Sweet and Sensual Romance: Similar to her first novel, Rain and Retribution, Ms. Diamond places Darcy and Elizabeth in a forced situation where they hardly know each and beautifully develops their relationships with gradual understanding and affection. I loved witnessing how their feelings slowly and tentatively progressed and seeing Darcy so protective, caring, and utterly besotted. The burgeoning and passionate romance between them was so lovely to witness, and that moment when Darcy pulls Elizabeth closer in bed and tells her “I promise I will not bite…” (can you say swoon???)
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- The Premise Had So Much Potential: This part of the review is hard for me because I was so very much engaged and riveted to the first half of this book! The dangerous plots and situations, the sinister and scheming antagonists, and the uncertainty of what they would do when their plans were foiled – it was all so gripping! However, it seemed the second half of the book did not hold the same energy and excitement, it felt like all the antagonists were in retreat or eliminated. We saw a lot more of the day-to-day activities of normal life and Elizabeth’s pregnancy than anything else. And while it was lovely to see Darcy and Elizabeth after marriage, I missed the thrilling conflict we had in the beginning.
- Some Small/Nagging Quibbles (SPOILER ALERT!): Some things just didn’t sit right with me in this tale – like the treatment of Lady Catherine after Anne’s death, Georgiana’s amazing awareness and forethought around Wickham, and how Thomas Grayson (who seemed to be the most sinister villain in this story) pretty much disappeared until a passing mention of his fate in the epilogue.
WARNING:
Some intimate and sensual scenes (which weren’t too explicit or frequent!) Recommended for Mature Audiences.
CONCLUSION:
The imaginative premise, daring character alterations, and inspiring romance in this variation are what I love best about L.L. Diamond’s prose. In An Unwavering Trust, L.L. Diamond creates a fascinating and inventive Pride and Prejudice variation that will be sure to surprise and delight readers who enjoy seeing these characters overcome new challenges and atypical obstacles!
Austenesque Reviews
October 21, 2018
I reread An Unwavering Trust this week and once again found it an enjoyable read. I continue to rate it as 4 stars simply because it is so far removed from the original P&P, though a very good read on its own.
How different is An Unwavering Trust from canon? First, Fitzwilliam Darcy is not the master of Pemberley, as his father is still alive. His father agrees with Lady Catherine that Darcy must marry his cousin Anne and obtain Rosings. Mr. Darcy senior coldly plans for Anne not to survive long in the marriage which will leave Fitzwilliam to marry whom he chooses afterward. He gives Darcy two weeks to propose to Anne or he will simply publish an engagement announcement in the papers. Darcy, and Georgiana, are not happy as they know this is not what Anne wishes. Georgiana encourages Darcy to quickly find someone else.
Secondly, Elizabeth Bennet is now the ward of her uncles Gardiner and Philips, and is living with her aunt and uncle Philips in Meryton. This is due to a very horrible accident which has killed all of the members of the Bennet family, except for Elizabeth. Mr. Collins senior, the one who had the falling out with Mr. Bennet, has inherited Longbourn, and kicked Elizabeth out with only her personal belongings. She has very little, but she does have the 5000 pounds from her mother.
The last, and most serious, difference from canon is the Uncle Gardiner character. Rather than marrying the wonderful woman we knew in the original, his betrothed died, leaving him a broken and bitter man. He is in serious debt, and wishes to sell Elizabeth and her dowry to his investor to be used in an infamous manner. Elizabeth's Uncle Philips is desperate for a way to protect her.
Darcy, on his way to London to find a wife other than Anne, overhears a conversation detailing the above despicable plan for Elizabeth. In short order, he and Elizabeth agree to an arranged marriage to get both of them out of their predicaments.
So, as you see, we have strayed very far from canon. We see the proud and disagreeable Mr. Darcy for only a very short time, as a new character, Darcy's grandmother Rebecca, the dowager of the deceased Earl of Matlock, brings him to his senses. Grandmama takes Elizabeth in hand and the two become fast friends as the wedding approaches and Elizabeth becomes Mrs. Darcy both at home and in the ton. Elizabeth is much more of a vulnerable character, obviously with the loss of her family, the new family she is thrown into, and the danger from her Uncle Gardiner. She finds herself in a situation where she has little say and no control, although she is still the bright, charming and impertinent Elizabeth.
The story is very well written and the characters very engaging, and we see some of the same angst as in other P&P variations with Wickham attempting to elope with Georgiana. But, we also have the characters of Darcy's Grandmama and Mr. Darcy senior, to add some new perspectives. Anne also plays a larger role.
A very enjoyable read. Recommended.
How different is An Unwavering Trust from canon? First, Fitzwilliam Darcy is not the master of Pemberley, as his father is still alive. His father agrees with Lady Catherine that Darcy must marry his cousin Anne and obtain Rosings. Mr. Darcy senior coldly plans for Anne not to survive long in the marriage which will leave Fitzwilliam to marry whom he chooses afterward. He gives Darcy two weeks to propose to Anne or he will simply publish an engagement announcement in the papers. Darcy, and Georgiana, are not happy as they know this is not what Anne wishes. Georgiana encourages Darcy to quickly find someone else.
Secondly, Elizabeth Bennet is now the ward of her uncles Gardiner and Philips, and is living with her aunt and uncle Philips in Meryton. This is due to a very horrible accident which has killed all of the members of the Bennet family, except for Elizabeth. Mr. Collins senior, the one who had the falling out with Mr. Bennet, has inherited Longbourn, and kicked Elizabeth out with only her personal belongings. She has very little, but she does have the 5000 pounds from her mother.
The last, and most serious, difference from canon is the Uncle Gardiner character. Rather than marrying the wonderful woman we knew in the original, his betrothed died, leaving him a broken and bitter man. He is in serious debt, and wishes to sell Elizabeth and her dowry to his investor to be used in an infamous manner. Elizabeth's Uncle Philips is desperate for a way to protect her.
Darcy, on his way to London to find a wife other than Anne, overhears a conversation detailing the above despicable plan for Elizabeth. In short order, he and Elizabeth agree to an arranged marriage to get both of them out of their predicaments.
So, as you see, we have strayed very far from canon. We see the proud and disagreeable Mr. Darcy for only a very short time, as a new character, Darcy's grandmother Rebecca, the dowager of the deceased Earl of Matlock, brings him to his senses. Grandmama takes Elizabeth in hand and the two become fast friends as the wedding approaches and Elizabeth becomes Mrs. Darcy both at home and in the ton. Elizabeth is much more of a vulnerable character, obviously with the loss of her family, the new family she is thrown into, and the danger from her Uncle Gardiner. She finds herself in a situation where she has little say and no control, although she is still the bright, charming and impertinent Elizabeth.
The story is very well written and the characters very engaging, and we see some of the same angst as in other P&P variations with Wickham attempting to elope with Georgiana. But, we also have the characters of Darcy's Grandmama and Mr. Darcy senior, to add some new perspectives. Anne also plays a larger role.
A very enjoyable read. Recommended.
May 28, 2019
I'm never quite sure about a Pride and Prejudice variation where everything is varied... all the Bennets, except Elizabeth, are dead and Mr Gardiner is a total villain!! Mr Darcy Senior is still alive as is Mr Collins senior. I think this may have influenced by view of this book.
The story starts with Darcy listening in to Mr Gardiner planning to sell Lizzy due to a business venture gone wrong. Darcy is being threatened with having two weeks to marry Anne and so offers to marry Lizzy as a solution for both of them. The start of the story was quite interesting and I was keen to see how things panned out... but as time went on my interest seemed to evaporate!
There are some great characters in this book, Darcy's grandmother is lovely! However, Colonel Fitzwilliam keeps popping in and out with no real purpose as far as I can tell, Darcy senior has nothing much to like about him. This Lizzy is also one of those annoyingly perfect Lizzy where she is responsible for all the good things that happen and the characters are always telling us how wonderful she is... this type of Lizzy gets on my nerves. Also, I didn't like the way Lady Catherine was treated... I know she deserves it... but I didn't like it and I'm not sure what purpose it served.... I think that was the problem for much of this story... I didn't really see where any of it was going or what the overall purpose was...
By 87% I really had lost all interest... I did finish it but didn't feel satisfied really.
The story starts with Darcy listening in to Mr Gardiner planning to sell Lizzy due to a business venture gone wrong. Darcy is being threatened with having two weeks to marry Anne and so offers to marry Lizzy as a solution for both of them. The start of the story was quite interesting and I was keen to see how things panned out... but as time went on my interest seemed to evaporate!
There are some great characters in this book, Darcy's grandmother is lovely! However, Colonel Fitzwilliam keeps popping in and out with no real purpose as far as I can tell, Darcy senior has nothing much to like about him. This Lizzy is also one of those annoyingly perfect Lizzy where she is responsible for all the good things that happen and the characters are always telling us how wonderful she is... this type of Lizzy gets on my nerves. Also, I didn't like the way Lady Catherine was treated... I know she deserves it... but I didn't like it and I'm not sure what purpose it served.... I think that was the problem for much of this story... I didn't really see where any of it was going or what the overall purpose was...
By 87% I really had lost all interest... I did finish it but didn't feel satisfied really.
January 29, 2025
DNF Second Half
Second Listening but I just couldn't finish and I rather not force myself through a book. Usually I love books by L.L Diamond though.
The first half was interesting and also an intriguing plot but as soon as they were on their estate it felt long winded though I guess that's because nothing significant happens except Elizabeth is thrown of a horse but still no villains trying to do anything until this point.
It is always said in the book Elizabeth is witty and teasing but in my opinion she isn't really witty or a teasing one maybe so far only a few little teasing remarks but not much.
Both just seem out of character. Don't get me wrong, that's not a bad thing but it needs to fit to the narrative. I gotta say, it was very well written though like all her books.
Narration: Not my cup of tea honestly. It felt emotionless and the different voices didn't really sound different. In the end, the men still sounded like women and you needed to pay attention to know who just spoke because they often also sounded the same. I'm sorry.
Steamy content.
Second Listening but I just couldn't finish and I rather not force myself through a book. Usually I love books by L.L Diamond though.
The first half was interesting and also an intriguing plot but as soon as they were on their estate it felt long winded though I guess that's because nothing significant happens except Elizabeth is thrown of a horse but still no villains trying to do anything until this point.
It is always said in the book Elizabeth is witty and teasing but in my opinion she isn't really witty or a teasing one maybe so far only a few little teasing remarks but not much.
Both just seem out of character. Don't get me wrong, that's not a bad thing but it needs to fit to the narrative. I gotta say, it was very well written though like all her books.
Narration: Not my cup of tea honestly. It felt emotionless and the different voices didn't really sound different. In the end, the men still sounded like women and you needed to pay attention to know who just spoke because they often also sounded the same. I'm sorry.
Steamy content.
February 17, 2017
This was different. It started at an earlier date and well some of the people that used to be nice were asshats. And of course there are some changes in Lizzy's family too, you will see.
Darcy's dad wants him to marry Anne and gives him two weeks. Then he meets Lizzy. And yes yes we all know they will marry cos he does not want to marry Anne. And well just say Lizzy needs to marry too.
So this book was about them getting to know each other. It had some ups and downs. Darcy is still Darcy. But they never had that drama in the beginning so they started off on a different footing. They liked each other and they fell in love.
But there are other kinds of drama. There is always Wickham, that SOB.
I enjoyed it.
Darcy's dad wants him to marry Anne and gives him two weeks. Then he meets Lizzy. And yes yes we all know they will marry cos he does not want to marry Anne. And well just say Lizzy needs to marry too.
So this book was about them getting to know each other. It had some ups and downs. Darcy is still Darcy. But they never had that drama in the beginning so they started off on a different footing. They liked each other and they fell in love.
But there are other kinds of drama. There is always Wickham, that SOB.
I enjoyed it.
October 26, 2015
A lovely original P&P variation!!
This story starts out with Mr Darcy (senior) still being alive and giving his son an ultimatum: marry Anne de Bourgh or never step foot on Pemberley's grounds and never see Georgiana again. He has 2 wks to propose to Anne or Mr Darcy (senior) will publish the betrothal in the newspaper. He is determined not to marry Anne (with Georgiana's blessing) and find himself a wife before the 2 wks are up.
He stops in Meryton and over hears a conversation between 2 men which has severe repercussions for a young lady and he decides to act and offer assistance to the gentleman trying to protect said young lady.
This story tells of the life that Mr Darcy and Elizabeth have to forge together, their budding emotional attachment, and trials and tribulations that others can bring to challenge their bond. This truly a lovely story. It was very engaging where I didn't want to put it down until I could get to the end. I adored Mr Darcy's Grandmamma and the whole Fitzwilliam clan!!! So welcoming, so loving, and on such short notice!!! Mr Darcy is so different, to offer assistance to strangers is so not canon! He is not arrogant at all, but supportive. And Elizabeth is not so judgmental or too prone to jumping to conclusions.
This story has its equal with bad people, though one is a surprise (you figure it out very quick)!!!
I would highly recommend this to all JAFFers, and rate it as PG13 (adult themes implied but not graphic).
This story starts out with Mr Darcy (senior) still being alive and giving his son an ultimatum: marry Anne de Bourgh or never step foot on Pemberley's grounds and never see Georgiana again. He has 2 wks to propose to Anne or Mr Darcy (senior) will publish the betrothal in the newspaper. He is determined not to marry Anne (with Georgiana's blessing) and find himself a wife before the 2 wks are up.
He stops in Meryton and over hears a conversation between 2 men which has severe repercussions for a young lady and he decides to act and offer assistance to the gentleman trying to protect said young lady.
This story tells of the life that Mr Darcy and Elizabeth have to forge together, their budding emotional attachment, and trials and tribulations that others can bring to challenge their bond. This truly a lovely story. It was very engaging where I didn't want to put it down until I could get to the end. I adored Mr Darcy's Grandmamma and the whole Fitzwilliam clan!!! So welcoming, so loving, and on such short notice!!! Mr Darcy is so different, to offer assistance to strangers is so not canon! He is not arrogant at all, but supportive. And Elizabeth is not so judgmental or too prone to jumping to conclusions.
This story has its equal with bad people, though one is a surprise (you figure it out very quick)!!!
I would highly recommend this to all JAFFers, and rate it as PG13 (adult themes implied but not graphic).
November 11, 2020
Lizzy in peril
Following a tragic occurrence, Elizabeth Bennet is left alone. She is living with her aunt and uncle Philips as she recovers from her injuries.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is being forced (blackmailed if you prefer) to marry his cousin, Anne de Bourgh. On his journey from Pemberley to Kent, he stops for a meal at the Bird in Hand in Meryton. He overhears the conversation of two men sitting behind him. One man plans to hand over "Lizzy" to a loan shark to settle his ruinous debt, and the other man is refusing to let him.
Although Darcy feels that it is none of his business, he nonetheless follows the refusing man to hear the story and see if he can offer help. This is Mr. Philips, and the other man is Mr. Gardiner.
23
Following a tragic occurrence, Elizabeth Bennet is left alone. She is living with her aunt and uncle Philips as she recovers from her injuries.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is being forced (blackmailed if you prefer) to marry his cousin, Anne de Bourgh. On his journey from Pemberley to Kent, he stops for a meal at the Bird in Hand in Meryton. He overhears the conversation of two men sitting behind him. One man plans to hand over "Lizzy" to a loan shark to settle his ruinous debt, and the other man is refusing to let him.
Although Darcy feels that it is none of his business, he nonetheless follows the refusing man to hear the story and see if he can offer help. This is Mr. Philips, and the other man is Mr. Gardiner.
23
May 24, 2020
Great characters and a fresh, sweet love story
I am really impressed with the author's ability to create such rich and convincing love between ODC. The new characters are wonderful and having a chance to meet Darcy before his father's death is a gift as well. It was strange missing a bulk of characters that we've all grown so used to playing large roles, and some tragic differences in some other characters made for a fresh and fascinating world to explore!
I am really impressed with the author's ability to create such rich and convincing love between ODC. The new characters are wonderful and having a chance to meet Darcy before his father's death is a gift as well. It was strange missing a bulk of characters that we've all grown so used to playing large roles, and some tragic differences in some other characters made for a fresh and fascinating world to explore!
July 31, 2015
I enjoyed this variation. The situation was plausible with a 'forced marriage' between Darcy and Elizabeth due to an ultimatum set by Darcy's father (still living) and a nefarious dealing of Lizzy's Uncle Gardiner (out of character from canon) that would seriously harm Elizabeth which was overheard by Darcy. There is a great deal of angst during the first half of the story with worries about Gardiner and his partner as well as worries about Darcy's father and his aunt Lady Catherine. I enjoyed the growth of the couple learning to understand each other as they did in Ms. Diamond's earlier book Rain and Retribution. The second half of the story had less angst. I would've liked to have seen more of Gardiner's partner in the second half as he just disappeared from the story until the end.
I recommend this book, but for a mature audience as there are sensual scenes between the married couple.
I recommend this book, but for a mature audience as there are sensual scenes between the married couple.
August 6, 2018
I enjoyed this story very much. It had a lot of angst, but Darcy and Elizabeth were building their relationship steadily, though it started from a very undesirable position. Most obstacles were external, and villains were excellent.
My favorite original character was the Dowager, it was so great for Darcy and Elizabeth to have a mother figure in their lives. I missed the Bennet family, but the Fitzwilliam clan filled that void pretty good They were divere characters.
Highly recommended.
My favorite original character was the Dowager, it was so great for Darcy and Elizabeth to have a mother figure in their lives. I missed the Bennet family, but the Fitzwilliam clan filled that void pretty good They were divere characters.
Highly recommended.
June 19, 2015
Confused and too long
Story lines are introduced randomly and never provide tension. Takes too long to get to any point. Resolution too neat. Never rises above mild curiosity as to what might be outcome. Too many characters are significantly altered. Change the names and stop pretending it is anything to do with p and p.
Story lines are introduced randomly and never provide tension. Takes too long to get to any point. Resolution too neat. Never rises above mild curiosity as to what might be outcome. Too many characters are significantly altered. Change the names and stop pretending it is anything to do with p and p.
March 4, 2020
Lovely and Loving
Everything I want in an AU story about Darcy and Lizzy. Skip the redundant characterizations and just give us a good story, a great, growing romance and enough angst to keep it moving. I missed Aunt Gardiner but loved "Grandmama" stepping into the role with sage wisdom and wit. A re-readable story on the top shelf.
Everything I want in an AU story about Darcy and Lizzy. Skip the redundant characterizations and just give us a good story, a great, growing romance and enough angst to keep it moving. I missed Aunt Gardiner but loved "Grandmama" stepping into the role with sage wisdom and wit. A re-readable story on the top shelf.
June 18, 2021
A sad beginning, a wonderful end...
...and a marvelous story in between.
Some great new characters, old ones that behave differently and some that behave as usual. A most entertaining plot really worth your time and money.
...and a marvelous story in between.
Some great new characters, old ones that behave differently and some that behave as usual. A most entertaining plot really worth your time and money.
January 26, 2023
One of the best Jaff’s I’ve read in a while. It was unique, interesting, & the romance was front & center while still having an actual plot. Low on angst, but still had me staying up late to read. I hate books that end as soon as the are engaged or married, which is one of the reasons I think I like the forced marriage or in this case the marriage of convenience trope. I get to see their courtship while they are already married. This book also refrained from using the great misunderstanding as it’s big plot device which I despise.
Two things that did bother me though was Elizabeth not knowing how pregnancy worked???? She lived on a farm people! Two, Darcy didn’t involve himself at all to thwart the Duke/Viscount. However, that at least runs his character true to cannon. Darcy is always hands off & worried more about his family than others that might be hurt do to his inaction.
I will say, I didn’t miss the Bennet family as much as I thought I would.
Two things that did bother me though was Elizabeth not knowing how pregnancy worked???? She lived on a farm people! Two, Darcy didn’t involve himself at all to thwart the Duke/Viscount. However, that at least runs his character true to cannon. Darcy is always hands off & worried more about his family than others that might be hurt do to his inaction.
I will say, I didn’t miss the Bennet family as much as I thought I would.
April 15, 2018
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, after a carriage accident Elizabeth Bennet is the only member of her family left (I did miss the Bennets) and is living with the Philips. Unfortunately her uncle Gardiner has need of her dowry and the plans are overheard by Darcy. Darcy who has been told by his father to marry Anne de Bourgh within a fortnight develops a plan to save Elizabeth and himself by marriage.
An enjoyable well-written story of their married life. Though I would have liked more about Thomas Grayson, Lady Catherine and the Bingleys.
An enjoyable well-written story of their married life. Though I would have liked more about Thomas Grayson, Lady Catherine and the Bingleys.
November 3, 2015
I would like to start my review by saying I always find it interesting when people dislike a book based on editing errors. I could see if there were so many that a book was rendered unreadable but when there are just a few does it really matter? I don't see how that alters the content of a book. Maybe its just me? Or maybe its because I did much better in math than I did in English and don't notice the errors?? Perhaps my reason will become obvious as I'm sure I'm about to make numerous grammatical errors in this review. I digress.... I thought this was an extremely enjoyable read. It was a major diversion from the original and there are camps who will never be accepting of a more extreme Pride and Prejudice variation. If you are of this camp...this book is probably not for you. I however enjoy all forms of JAFF even when it varies so much from the original. It is afterall, a variation. Quick synopsis... Elizabeth's entire family is killed in a carriage accident and Elizabeth is now living with her Aunt and Uncle Phillips. Her Uncle Gardiner is completely unrecognizable as an unmarried vile sort of man who owes a large sum of money to a for a smuggling operation gone bad. He has offered a virgin Elizabeth in exchange for his debts as her Uncle Phillips is desperately attempting to find a way to get Elizabeth out of his reach and certain harm. Darcy overhears of this matter and offers his help - which ends up being a proposal that they marry making her no longer desirable to be bought as well as protected in Mr. Darcy's home. Darcy also benefits from this plan since his father (alive and well) has given him an ultimatum of marrying Anne or being forced to; neither to which him or Anne desire. It would be a death sentence for her and he does not love her. Wow! There is so much happening here and I admit I was occasionally forced to reread sections for clarification, but somehow it totally worked. I thought I would absolutely hate that Gardiner is a villain but the story was engaging and suspenseful and I found that I could not put it down! Elizabeth and Darcy are still mostly themselves, I found that Elizabeth was not as witty in this version, but she and Darcy still come to the realization of a deep and ardent love between one another. If you are of the purist camp.. also not a book for you, but if you don't mind a little sexy time between our lovers, it was definitely steamy in this one! I do agree with other reviews that things seemed to wrap up too easily and I did not give it a 5 because Elizabeth was a bit too naïve in this version. Still it was an entertaining read in which I did not lose interest.
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