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Mr. Darcy's Rival
Mr.Darcy has learned he must prepare himself when he and his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, make their yearly visit to his aunt, particularly when it comes to Lady Catherine’s expectation that he marry her daughter, Anne. This year, however, will throw in a few additional obstacles to Darcy’s peace of mind with the presence of a nephew on the de Bourgh side of the family, and quite unexpectedly, Miss Elizabeth Bennet. An interrupted proposal, a letter written and unknowingly lost, a harsh accusation, and a rival all conspire to thwart Mr. Darcy in securing Miss Elizabeth Bennet’s affections when he visits his aunt at Rosings. Will Elizabeth find the handsome and engaging Mr. Rickland more suited to her than Mr. Darcy? And will a novel she reads that was written secretly by Miss Anne de Bourgh help smooth the path to the couple finding true love?
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 29, 2015
47 people are currently reading
329 people want to read
About the author
Kara Louise
20 books231 followersKara Louise has been writing "Pride and Prejudice" novels since 2001. She has published 8 novels, 2 that were published by Sourcebooks Publications. She was born in the San Fernando Valley, just north of Los Angeles, but moved to Kansas in 1991. She lives just outside Wichita with her husband, sharing their 10 acres with an ever changing menagerie of animals. They have one married son who lives in St. Louis..
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 7, 2015
I have read all of Kara Louise’s books and have re-read several of them, if not in entirety, then in parts which are favorites, again and again. Kara writes sweetly and inventively: sometimes with such wild imaginings you may, at first, think will never work. I have found they always do – pirates, ocean voyages, etc. – give me more, please.
As the book description and/or Sample inform you this tale opens with Elizabeth’s, Maria’s and Sir Lucas’ visit to Hunsford and subsequently with Darcy’s and Col. Fitzwilliam’s annual Easter visit to Rosings. Prior to their arrival a nephew to Lady Catherine, (from the other side of the family) a Mr. Rickland, has been visiting and has met and gained the approbation of one, Miss Elizabeth Bennet. He is not one to stare out windows nor to silently turn his unending gaze upon one. Darcy recognizes the man’s intentions but he also misinterprets (Yes, he has not changed in this aspect.) Elizabeth’s reception of both Mr. Rickland’s and his own attentions. (Really, Darcy, you think she knows your staring at her is a sign of affection and approval?) And, again, Darcy steps forward with that proposal – but this time there are interruptions…of the worst kind…with an explosion of words and revelations and accusations. Then Darcy is informed by more than one person as to how his actions and words are seen, are viewed, are taken by more than just Miss Bennet.
And here we come to a pivotal part of the story: his letter (but this time undelivered), a wind storm with rain and a fall into a ravine. This portion of the story is intense and with major results…loved dear Mrs. Beckett: hard of hearing? But then she gives such good advice.
Many parts of this book read like a mystery novel; clues and actions, missteps and reconnoitering, which can be taken in several ways or simply mistaken. Elizabeth notices Anne de Bourgh writing in her journal while observing interactions in the Rosings’ drawing room and finally is told by Anne that she writes books under a pseudonym, N. E. Berg. There is that editor, Mr. Jenkinson, and just how Anne ever came to make his acquaintance much less have him publish her works. There is a conspiracy by more than one person and you will be surprised here. I was. I do know that two of the culprits have always been written as having bad behaviors but the last person’s involvement came as a surprise. Things are just not always as they seem. The elopement: not as in canon. Or should I say it in the plural…elopements?
The author has posted several chapters from both this book and Anne de Bourgh’s journal on blogs, which I have followed with interest. The secondary story written by Anne is of great interest and insight in this story. Did you ever wonder what this silent, sickly young lady was thinking? Did you perhaps think she had no opinions unless they were reflections of her mother? You may find enlightening her part in the story.
I could not put this book down, starting it late one day and finishing it the next. It was a loan from a good friend and I do highly recommend this book.
As the book description and/or Sample inform you this tale opens with Elizabeth’s, Maria’s and Sir Lucas’ visit to Hunsford and subsequently with Darcy’s and Col. Fitzwilliam’s annual Easter visit to Rosings. Prior to their arrival a nephew to Lady Catherine, (from the other side of the family) a Mr. Rickland, has been visiting and has met and gained the approbation of one, Miss Elizabeth Bennet. He is not one to stare out windows nor to silently turn his unending gaze upon one. Darcy recognizes the man’s intentions but he also misinterprets (Yes, he has not changed in this aspect.) Elizabeth’s reception of both Mr. Rickland’s and his own attentions. (Really, Darcy, you think she knows your staring at her is a sign of affection and approval?) And, again, Darcy steps forward with that proposal – but this time there are interruptions…of the worst kind…with an explosion of words and revelations and accusations. Then Darcy is informed by more than one person as to how his actions and words are seen, are viewed, are taken by more than just Miss Bennet.
And here we come to a pivotal part of the story: his letter (but this time undelivered), a wind storm with rain and a fall into a ravine. This portion of the story is intense and with major results…loved dear Mrs. Beckett: hard of hearing? But then she gives such good advice.
Many parts of this book read like a mystery novel; clues and actions, missteps and reconnoitering, which can be taken in several ways or simply mistaken. Elizabeth notices Anne de Bourgh writing in her journal while observing interactions in the Rosings’ drawing room and finally is told by Anne that she writes books under a pseudonym, N. E. Berg. There is that editor, Mr. Jenkinson, and just how Anne ever came to make his acquaintance much less have him publish her works. There is a conspiracy by more than one person and you will be surprised here. I was. I do know that two of the culprits have always been written as having bad behaviors but the last person’s involvement came as a surprise. Things are just not always as they seem. The elopement: not as in canon. Or should I say it in the plural…elopements?
The author has posted several chapters from both this book and Anne de Bourgh’s journal on blogs, which I have followed with interest. The secondary story written by Anne is of great interest and insight in this story. Did you ever wonder what this silent, sickly young lady was thinking? Did you perhaps think she had no opinions unless they were reflections of her mother? You may find enlightening her part in the story.
I could not put this book down, starting it late one day and finishing it the next. It was a loan from a good friend and I do highly recommend this book.
July 8, 2015
4.5 stars!! What if Another Nephew of Lady Catherine’s Came to Visit?
It is well known that Lady Catherine is “particularly attached” to her nephews, and according to her ladyship, they are just as attached to her. But what if this grouping of nephews included one more…a nephew from Sir Lewis de Bourgh’s side of the family, his sister’s son Matthew Rickland?
If such a nephew did exist, we can be sure that Lady Catherine would take a prodigious concern in all his affairs, give her superior council on many matters of his life, and demand his attendance at Rosings every so often. In this lovely new variation by Kara Louise we explore the possibility of Lady Catherine’s nephews coming to visit all at the very same time. What if Elizabeth met Mr. Rickland and found him handsome, charming, and amiable? What if Mr. Darcy arrived in Kent and found himself, not only staying a short distance away from Elizabeth Bennet, but residing under the same roof as someone who seems to greatly admire her? Let the battle begin…
Hmm…it is a little tricky to talk about the plot of this book because partway through some surprising twists take place! And I don’t want to spoil any of it for anyone…so I’ll have to give you some teasers…Throughout the course of Mr. Darcy’s Rival readers will encounter three handsome gentleman who persistently pay calls at Hunsford Parsonage, witness a character read several startling revelations, an unexpected secret about Anne de Bourgh, and a heroic rescue that will make anyone go weak in the knees… (There, that ought to whet your appetite but still keep you guessing!)
As you probably can already discern, I adored this premise! (Oh yes! Let’s give Darcy some competition, let’s give him a challenging opponent!) I love seeing Darcy thrown off his game and not so overly-confident! And Lizzy – with her surplus of suitors who practically trip over themselves to attend her – boy, do some people get all the luck! It was very entertaining to see Lizzy surround by so many interested men! I particularly enjoyed it when in the midst of their charming conversations and flattery there would come to a point where Darcy would want/need to participate in their exchanges, and when he did it was often cringe-worthy and awkward! (Poor Darcy, conversation is not really his thing. Appearing at the most imperative and opportune moment is more his thing! *swoon*)
Another aspect of the story I greatly enjoyed was seeing some new development for Anne de Bourgh. I love it when Anne becomes more than Lady Catherine’s sickly and cross-looking daughter. This story showed she had a very observant nature and a special secret talent of which very few knew. I greatly enjoyed the thought-provoking look at her childhood and feelings towards her cousin. In addition, I loved how her story progressed and I found the conclusion wonderfully satisfying!
Like Lizzy, I thought Mr. Rickland everything that is affable and attractive. I liked how there was a little bit of mystery surrounding him; he played his cards close to his chest so to speak. He started off as a brilliant contender for Elizabeth’s heart, and a worthy rival for Mr. Darcy. SPOILER ALERT!! (However, along the way I felt a little bit ambivalent towards Mr. Rickland. I was slightly disappointed by the true level of his interest in Elizabeth Bennet and his involvement with another female character in the story. That part didn’t feel so plausible at times.)
Despite this quibble, Mr. Darcy’s Rival was another remarkable and absorbing read from the talented Kara Louise! I’m a long time admirer of Kara Louise’s work (since 2007!), and I will always want to read anything she writes – I love her respectful representation of Jane Austen’s characters, the creative and original scenarios she fabricates, and those heart-stopping, memorable moments between Darcy and Elizabeth (you know the kind!) that she deftly weaves into each one of her stories!
It is well known that Lady Catherine is “particularly attached” to her nephews, and according to her ladyship, they are just as attached to her. But what if this grouping of nephews included one more…a nephew from Sir Lewis de Bourgh’s side of the family, his sister’s son Matthew Rickland?
If such a nephew did exist, we can be sure that Lady Catherine would take a prodigious concern in all his affairs, give her superior council on many matters of his life, and demand his attendance at Rosings every so often. In this lovely new variation by Kara Louise we explore the possibility of Lady Catherine’s nephews coming to visit all at the very same time. What if Elizabeth met Mr. Rickland and found him handsome, charming, and amiable? What if Mr. Darcy arrived in Kent and found himself, not only staying a short distance away from Elizabeth Bennet, but residing under the same roof as someone who seems to greatly admire her? Let the battle begin…
Hmm…it is a little tricky to talk about the plot of this book because partway through some surprising twists take place! And I don’t want to spoil any of it for anyone…so I’ll have to give you some teasers…Throughout the course of Mr. Darcy’s Rival readers will encounter three handsome gentleman who persistently pay calls at Hunsford Parsonage, witness a character read several startling revelations, an unexpected secret about Anne de Bourgh, and a heroic rescue that will make anyone go weak in the knees… (There, that ought to whet your appetite but still keep you guessing!)
As you probably can already discern, I adored this premise! (Oh yes! Let’s give Darcy some competition, let’s give him a challenging opponent!) I love seeing Darcy thrown off his game and not so overly-confident! And Lizzy – with her surplus of suitors who practically trip over themselves to attend her – boy, do some people get all the luck! It was very entertaining to see Lizzy surround by so many interested men! I particularly enjoyed it when in the midst of their charming conversations and flattery there would come to a point where Darcy would want/need to participate in their exchanges, and when he did it was often cringe-worthy and awkward! (Poor Darcy, conversation is not really his thing. Appearing at the most imperative and opportune moment is more his thing! *swoon*)
Another aspect of the story I greatly enjoyed was seeing some new development for Anne de Bourgh. I love it when Anne becomes more than Lady Catherine’s sickly and cross-looking daughter. This story showed she had a very observant nature and a special secret talent of which very few knew. I greatly enjoyed the thought-provoking look at her childhood and feelings towards her cousin. In addition, I loved how her story progressed and I found the conclusion wonderfully satisfying!
Like Lizzy, I thought Mr. Rickland everything that is affable and attractive. I liked how there was a little bit of mystery surrounding him; he played his cards close to his chest so to speak. He started off as a brilliant contender for Elizabeth’s heart, and a worthy rival for Mr. Darcy. SPOILER ALERT!! (However, along the way I felt a little bit ambivalent towards Mr. Rickland. I was slightly disappointed by the true level of his interest in Elizabeth Bennet and his involvement with another female character in the story. That part didn’t feel so plausible at times.)
Despite this quibble, Mr. Darcy’s Rival was another remarkable and absorbing read from the talented Kara Louise! I’m a long time admirer of Kara Louise’s work (since 2007!), and I will always want to read anything she writes – I love her respectful representation of Jane Austen’s characters, the creative and original scenarios she fabricates, and those heart-stopping, memorable moments between Darcy and Elizabeth (you know the kind!) that she deftly weaves into each one of her stories!
September 25, 2015
3.5
Parts of this book are very original and unique and others are overdone tropes.
When Darcy & Fitzwilliam arrive at Rosings there are several surprises, Lady Catherine's deBourgh nephew is visiting and has already charmed Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
This is just full of drama and angst. Darcy losing a letter to Lizzy, Lizzy finding it, Lizzy falling into a ravine... Darcy rescuing her, on and on...
A good part is the redemption of Anne de Bourgh, turns out she is a novelist. And wants nothing to do with Mr. Darcy. Her novel does serve as a plot point to give Lizzy a unique insight into Darcy's character.
This is just a book full of miscommunication, intrigue and lots of carriage / horse rides.
Parts of this book are very original and unique and others are overdone tropes.
When Darcy & Fitzwilliam arrive at Rosings there are several surprises, Lady Catherine's deBourgh nephew is visiting and has already charmed Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
This is just full of drama and angst. Darcy losing a letter to Lizzy, Lizzy finding it, Lizzy falling into a ravine... Darcy rescuing her, on and on...
A good part is the redemption of Anne de Bourgh, turns out she is a novelist. And wants nothing to do with Mr. Darcy. Her novel does serve as a plot point to give Lizzy a unique insight into Darcy's character.
This is just a book full of miscommunication, intrigue and lots of carriage / horse rides.
July 24, 2020
A rival for Darcy
At Rosings Lady Catherine has a nephew from her husbands family side. Lizzy and he meets and starts to show Lizzy attention. Darcy is jealous of course.
She still dislikes Darcy since she hasn’t had the bad proposal and received a letter from him yet.
Will she be courted by him? Will she marry him? How can she know if he is a good man or not? She is wrong about Wickham and Darcy. She’s not really good at sketching characters.
Lots of in and out with a new suitor for Lizzy. Well written, no plot holes, everything seems believable.
I recommend this book.
At Rosings Lady Catherine has a nephew from her husbands family side. Lizzy and he meets and starts to show Lizzy attention. Darcy is jealous of course.
She still dislikes Darcy since she hasn’t had the bad proposal and received a letter from him yet.
Will she be courted by him? Will she marry him? How can she know if he is a good man or not? She is wrong about Wickham and Darcy. She’s not really good at sketching characters.
Lots of in and out with a new suitor for Lizzy. Well written, no plot holes, everything seems believable.
I recommend this book.
June 7, 2022
Just read it! It is so terrific like everything written by this author.
Edit: reread this one as I bought the follow-up. Still love it!
Forgot this had a sequel. Reread it and love it.
Edit: reread this one as I bought the follow-up. Still love it!
Forgot this had a sequel. Reread it and love it.
July 4, 2015
Another wonderful P&P variation from Kara Louise! This one had some wonderful plot twists I didn't see coming and made great use of many of our favorite P&P characters. Thoroughly enjoyable!
October 15, 2022
I enjoyed the writing. Slightly off canon, obviously! A cute, light read, if somewhat bland.
December 18, 2022
Cute story
At Rosings, Darcy and Fitzwilliam are accompanied by another nephew who attempts to make himself agreeable to Elizabeth. There is no Hunsford proposal but Darcy realizes that Elizabeth doesn't like him and Elizabeth realizes that Darcy more than likes her. I was engrossed and finished it in one day when I really should have done other things.
At Rosings, Darcy and Fitzwilliam are accompanied by another nephew who attempts to make himself agreeable to Elizabeth. There is no Hunsford proposal but Darcy realizes that Elizabeth doesn't like him and Elizabeth realizes that Darcy more than likes her. I was engrossed and finished it in one day when I really should have done other things.
October 8, 2017
Re-read 10/8/17
I enjoyed this one just as much the second time around. It has an interesting, original plot, and the interactions between Darcy and Elizabeth are very satisfying.
Original read 1/24/16
Really enjoyed this one. I would have liked to see Elizabeth and Darcy have to try a little harder to get to their point of understanding, and I would have liked to see some favored secondary characters more (Georgiana, for one), but otherwise this was a really fun and well done story. I particularly enjoyed the twist on Wickham's schemes.
I enjoyed this one just as much the second time around. It has an interesting, original plot, and the interactions between Darcy and Elizabeth are very satisfying.
Original read 1/24/16
Really enjoyed this one. I would have liked to see Elizabeth and Darcy have to try a little harder to get to their point of understanding, and I would have liked to see some favored secondary characters more (Georgiana, for one), but otherwise this was a really fun and well done story. I particularly enjoyed the twist on Wickham's schemes.
May 23, 2018
Love Formula: add 3 bachelors + 1 single woman = disastrous Easter: 4-stars
These three guys aren’t exactly tripping over each other; however, they are vying for Elizabeth’s attention. It is hilarious watching each race to garner her favors with Darcy as her least favorite.
Our story launches with Elizabeth arriving in Kent with Sir William and Maria Lucas. They are visiting Charlotte and Mr. Collins at the Huntsford Parsonage. Lady Catherine has an additional guest, a nephew from the Sir Louis de Bourgh side of the family, Mr. Rickland. He appears to be everything wonderful, good looking, and charming, exhibits proper manners and gives Elizabeth all his attention.
Next, we have Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy arriving at Kent for their yearly Easter visit with Lady Catherine. Little does Darcy know his life is about to take a dramatic change.
I had just finished another book by Kara Louise and noticed a pattern between the two books. Our H&h are at opposite ends of the Love spectrum. She did the same thing in her other book. Darcy is so enamored with Elizabeth that he is just sure she understands him and reciprocates his feelings.
Elizabeth on the other hand, is so angry with Darcy, because of his insult at the assembly, his separation of Bingley and Jane, and his mistreatment of Wickham, that she cannot stand him or the ground on which he walks. That is a lot of territory and distance between them.
Darcy is always so surprised when he finds out how Elizabeth really feels about him. It leaves him stunned and hurt. When she explains how Jane was actually in love with Bingley and has been devastated by his abandonment, it leaves Darcy embarrassed and ashamed at his interference. He goes about trying to repair the damage to Bingley and Jane and hopefully make amends to Elizabeth.
Elizabeth, on the other hand, has to really examine herself and her motives and beliefs once Mr. Darcy starts to repair the damage he created. First he makes amends to Bingley, so he can go make up with Jane, and then he explains about Wickham. Elizabeth is now the one who is ashamed and embarrassed about believing Mr. Wickham’s lies so readily. The rest of the book is her doing an about face and moving step by step across the great chasm that separates her and Darcy.
There are all manner of misunderstandings and attempts to keep them apart. The whole business with Rickland was déjà vu of another admirer that was handsome in his appearance and manner. He was too smooth by half. But Elizabeth seems doomed to forever be mistaken in her ability to sketch someone’s true character.
The big reveal regarding the master mind behind all the problems of ODC is a big shocker. OMG, it was too cool and such a surprise. The author really caught me by surprise.
Mrs. Bennet is the same, Lydia is…will someone please call security and take her away until she grows up or exhibits some sense. That girl…I resent Mr. and Mrs. Bennet so much for allowing her behavior and actions to continue unchecked. She was just awful, uncaring, jealous and bitter. Maybe Kitty learned a lesson, who knows? At least Mr. Bennet finally made a decision regarding Brighton and he at least tried to reign in Mrs. Bennet to the best of his ability.
Anne was a big surprise and such a lovely story. She is such a dear and I wish her happy. No spoiler here.
I haven’t been very specific because there is no need to repeat what other reviewers have mentioned. I just touched on a few basics. It took a long time to get to the HEA and those last chapters are fast paced and nerve wracking. I was so sure that Elizabeth had made a BIG mistake insisting on doing the confrontation herself with their nemesis. She went against Uncle Gardiner’s advice and that is always a bad idea. The author took a big chance allowing her to do that. I was sure it was a set up and it could have gone terribly wrong. I was a wreck until the scene was completed.
There were several threads left hanging and I can’t mention them without spoiling something. Dang!
These three guys aren’t exactly tripping over each other; however, they are vying for Elizabeth’s attention. It is hilarious watching each race to garner her favors with Darcy as her least favorite.
Our story launches with Elizabeth arriving in Kent with Sir William and Maria Lucas. They are visiting Charlotte and Mr. Collins at the Huntsford Parsonage. Lady Catherine has an additional guest, a nephew from the Sir Louis de Bourgh side of the family, Mr. Rickland. He appears to be everything wonderful, good looking, and charming, exhibits proper manners and gives Elizabeth all his attention.
Next, we have Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy arriving at Kent for their yearly Easter visit with Lady Catherine. Little does Darcy know his life is about to take a dramatic change.
I had just finished another book by Kara Louise and noticed a pattern between the two books. Our H&h are at opposite ends of the Love spectrum. She did the same thing in her other book. Darcy is so enamored with Elizabeth that he is just sure she understands him and reciprocates his feelings.
Elizabeth on the other hand, is so angry with Darcy, because of his insult at the assembly, his separation of Bingley and Jane, and his mistreatment of Wickham, that she cannot stand him or the ground on which he walks. That is a lot of territory and distance between them.
Darcy is always so surprised when he finds out how Elizabeth really feels about him. It leaves him stunned and hurt. When she explains how Jane was actually in love with Bingley and has been devastated by his abandonment, it leaves Darcy embarrassed and ashamed at his interference. He goes about trying to repair the damage to Bingley and Jane and hopefully make amends to Elizabeth.
Elizabeth, on the other hand, has to really examine herself and her motives and beliefs once Mr. Darcy starts to repair the damage he created. First he makes amends to Bingley, so he can go make up with Jane, and then he explains about Wickham. Elizabeth is now the one who is ashamed and embarrassed about believing Mr. Wickham’s lies so readily. The rest of the book is her doing an about face and moving step by step across the great chasm that separates her and Darcy.
There are all manner of misunderstandings and attempts to keep them apart. The whole business with Rickland was déjà vu of another admirer that was handsome in his appearance and manner. He was too smooth by half. But Elizabeth seems doomed to forever be mistaken in her ability to sketch someone’s true character.
The big reveal regarding the master mind behind all the problems of ODC is a big shocker. OMG, it was too cool and such a surprise. The author really caught me by surprise.
Mrs. Bennet is the same, Lydia is…will someone please call security and take her away until she grows up or exhibits some sense. That girl…I resent Mr. and Mrs. Bennet so much for allowing her behavior and actions to continue unchecked. She was just awful, uncaring, jealous and bitter. Maybe Kitty learned a lesson, who knows? At least Mr. Bennet finally made a decision regarding Brighton and he at least tried to reign in Mrs. Bennet to the best of his ability.
Anne was a big surprise and such a lovely story. She is such a dear and I wish her happy. No spoiler here.
I haven’t been very specific because there is no need to repeat what other reviewers have mentioned. I just touched on a few basics. It took a long time to get to the HEA and those last chapters are fast paced and nerve wracking. I was so sure that Elizabeth had made a BIG mistake insisting on doing the confrontation herself with their nemesis. She went against Uncle Gardiner’s advice and that is always a bad idea. The author took a big chance allowing her to do that. I was sure it was a set up and it could have gone terribly wrong. I was a wreck until the scene was completed.
There were several threads left hanging and I can’t mention them without spoiling something. Dang!
August 5, 2015
I loved this book.It is beautifully written- heart wrenching, sweet and oh so tender in parts. I finished it in 2 days- it's just one of those books that you keep turning the pages to find out what happens next. Highly recommended.
September 26, 2016
I probably wouldn't have read this after Pirates and Prejudice if I hadn't previously purchased it, but decided since I already owned it I'd go ahead and see if I liked it better. I really didn't.
While I like the idea of how an author can twist this story sideways, this particular tweak was rather contrived with misplaced letters and idiotic behavior. Worse, the writing was a miss as well. Brows are quite mobile in Mr. Darcy's Rival, mentioned a total of 102 times as they are raised (30), lowered (15), and pinched (27). There are eyes widened (35), lips bitten (27), huffs (23), and jaws rubbed (15). My favorite is used a mere nine times, but is such a stand out as to be noticeable anyway, as multiple characters wave their hand through the air. I now do this in all my conversations for emphasis.
What annoyed me more than all of that though, is that though many people mentioned that this was a redemption of Anne de Bourgh, as Elizabeth discovers she's an author, but her "novel" is an obnoxiously thinly-disguised recounting of her life, as if she couldn't manage anything better. Worst of all, I was bored. There wasn't nearly enough tension to keep my attention engaged. At least if Pirates and Prejudice was nuts, it was fun. This take doesn't even have that going for it.
While I like the idea of how an author can twist this story sideways, this particular tweak was rather contrived with misplaced letters and idiotic behavior. Worse, the writing was a miss as well. Brows are quite mobile in Mr. Darcy's Rival, mentioned a total of 102 times as they are raised (30), lowered (15), and pinched (27). There are eyes widened (35), lips bitten (27), huffs (23), and jaws rubbed (15). My favorite is used a mere nine times, but is such a stand out as to be noticeable anyway, as multiple characters wave their hand through the air. I now do this in all my conversations for emphasis.
What annoyed me more than all of that though, is that though many people mentioned that this was a redemption of Anne de Bourgh, as Elizabeth discovers she's an author, but her "novel" is an obnoxiously thinly-disguised recounting of her life, as if she couldn't manage anything better. Worst of all, I was bored. There wasn't nearly enough tension to keep my attention engaged. At least if Pirates and Prejudice was nuts, it was fun. This take doesn't even have that going for it.
October 3, 2016
Mr. Darcy's Rival is one of the more enjoyable variations that I have read. It takes the familiar story of Pride and Prejudice and adds a bit of a twist to it, while not changing it dramatically, just adding some fun background and twists that make it enjoyable.
Since we all know that Elizabeth is not an admirer of Mr. Darcy, but also know that he is falling in love with her, there is a bit of tension in their relationship.
Add to that tension another man who shows interest in Elizabeth and the fun begins. How will Mr. Darcy react to this rival? How will Elizabeth respond to someone being interested in her? How will feelings, emotions, prejudices and attitudes change throughout the story to draw Elizabeth and Darcy together? Or will they be drawn together?
This is a delightful variation that will bring much joy and pleasure to any fan of Jane Austen Pride and Prejudice variations.
Enjoy!
Since we all know that Elizabeth is not an admirer of Mr. Darcy, but also know that he is falling in love with her, there is a bit of tension in their relationship.
Add to that tension another man who shows interest in Elizabeth and the fun begins. How will Mr. Darcy react to this rival? How will Elizabeth respond to someone being interested in her? How will feelings, emotions, prejudices and attitudes change throughout the story to draw Elizabeth and Darcy together? Or will they be drawn together?
This is a delightful variation that will bring much joy and pleasure to any fan of Jane Austen Pride and Prejudice variations.
Enjoy!
January 23, 2016
I hate to give Kara Louise a three star rating because I so enjoy her books. It really should be 3 1/2. This one started out well, but I was looking forward to a real rival for Elizabeth's hand and heart. This turned out to be a rival who was not really serious about Elizabeth and was in ****spoiler**** league with Wickham and Miss Bingley *****.
I guess I was looking for more of a competition. Once Elizabeth found out about the rival, she of course lost all interest in him and fell for Darcy. I was hoping she would really have a difficult time picking between the two.
This doesn't mean other wouldn't enjoy the book just as it is. I was expecting a more complex triangle.
I guess I was looking for more of a competition. Once Elizabeth found out about the rival, she of course lost all interest in him and fell for Darcy. I was hoping she would really have a difficult time picking between the two.
This doesn't mean other wouldn't enjoy the book just as it is. I was expecting a more complex triangle.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2015
This review originally appeared on Austenprose: http://austenprose.com/2015/06/25/mr-...
I’ve reviewed three of Kara Louise’s works now (Only Mr. Darcy Will Do, Darcy’s Voyage, and Pirates and Prejudice), and I can confidently say that she’s been gaining popularity as one of my favorite Jane Austen fan fiction authors. One of her strongest points is her imaginative ability to create such great variations on the traditional Pride and Prejudice storyline. It was with this in mind that I was eager to start a new installment in this great line of variations, Mr. Darcy’s Rival, which I knew was sure to intrigue me from the beginning.
Mr. Darcy, as always, is dreading his annual visit to his aunt Lady Catherine, as he knows that he will face the usual barrage of questions from the officious woman regarding his marrying her daughter. Accompanied as usual by his cousin, Col. Fitzwilliam, Darcy finds that there are two additional guests at Rosings Park this time: a Mr. Rickland and Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Although Darcy knew Miss Bennet during his time in Meryton and left in order to mask his feelings for her, he cannot deny that his affections have grown even greater since their time apart. There are many obstacles to his ultimate goal of winning her hand, none more formidable than Mr. Rickland. Will he be able to secure Elizabeth’s love against all odds and be able to make his feelings known in the face of Lady Catherine’s alternate plans?
Initially the book was slightly slow for my taste, but about 60 pages in the story became vivid and lively, and really took off. I like how Louise was able to take pieces of the original work and reinvent them, such as the scenes with Darcy’s famous, “be not alarmed, Madame,” letter. In Pride and Prejudice this letter acts as the catalyst of Elizabeth’s epiphany, making her realize that first impressions aren’t always accurate (i.e. Wickham and falsehoods regarding Darcy.) In Mr. Darcy’s Rival, although the circumstances and text of the letter are different (she isn’t even meant to receive it,) it still performs the same action, making her reevaluate her behavior and thoughts towards Darcy. Therefore, although Louise is using the same plot device, she is changing it and making the story her own.
I also liked the storyline that was built around Anne de Bourgh. In the original we don’t know much about her, except that she is sickly and expected to marry Darcy. She is essentially a blank slate (as is Georgiana) and I like seeing what stories the authors create for these characters. In this instance, Louise gives Anne an opportunity to write her own story by making her a writer! This was an interesting choice considering Anne was a lady of wealth and stature living in Regency England, which definitely puts this career choice (or having a career in general) at odds with society at the time. Additionally, I also enjoyed reading her characters’ commentary on the role of women writers of the time, and the prejudices they faced due to their sex.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the extreme highs and lows on which Louise took my heart. It was no surprise that I was going to become entranced by the creativity that Louise exhibits, and she didn’t disappoint at all. Quirky, imaginative, and compelling, Mr. Darcy’s Rival is sure to be a home run for your summer reads list.
I’ve reviewed three of Kara Louise’s works now (Only Mr. Darcy Will Do, Darcy’s Voyage, and Pirates and Prejudice), and I can confidently say that she’s been gaining popularity as one of my favorite Jane Austen fan fiction authors. One of her strongest points is her imaginative ability to create such great variations on the traditional Pride and Prejudice storyline. It was with this in mind that I was eager to start a new installment in this great line of variations, Mr. Darcy’s Rival, which I knew was sure to intrigue me from the beginning.
Mr. Darcy, as always, is dreading his annual visit to his aunt Lady Catherine, as he knows that he will face the usual barrage of questions from the officious woman regarding his marrying her daughter. Accompanied as usual by his cousin, Col. Fitzwilliam, Darcy finds that there are two additional guests at Rosings Park this time: a Mr. Rickland and Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Although Darcy knew Miss Bennet during his time in Meryton and left in order to mask his feelings for her, he cannot deny that his affections have grown even greater since their time apart. There are many obstacles to his ultimate goal of winning her hand, none more formidable than Mr. Rickland. Will he be able to secure Elizabeth’s love against all odds and be able to make his feelings known in the face of Lady Catherine’s alternate plans?
Initially the book was slightly slow for my taste, but about 60 pages in the story became vivid and lively, and really took off. I like how Louise was able to take pieces of the original work and reinvent them, such as the scenes with Darcy’s famous, “be not alarmed, Madame,” letter. In Pride and Prejudice this letter acts as the catalyst of Elizabeth’s epiphany, making her realize that first impressions aren’t always accurate (i.e. Wickham and falsehoods regarding Darcy.) In Mr. Darcy’s Rival, although the circumstances and text of the letter are different (she isn’t even meant to receive it,) it still performs the same action, making her reevaluate her behavior and thoughts towards Darcy. Therefore, although Louise is using the same plot device, she is changing it and making the story her own.
I also liked the storyline that was built around Anne de Bourgh. In the original we don’t know much about her, except that she is sickly and expected to marry Darcy. She is essentially a blank slate (as is Georgiana) and I like seeing what stories the authors create for these characters. In this instance, Louise gives Anne an opportunity to write her own story by making her a writer! This was an interesting choice considering Anne was a lady of wealth and stature living in Regency England, which definitely puts this career choice (or having a career in general) at odds with society at the time. Additionally, I also enjoyed reading her characters’ commentary on the role of women writers of the time, and the prejudices they faced due to their sex.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the extreme highs and lows on which Louise took my heart. It was no surprise that I was going to become entranced by the creativity that Louise exhibits, and she didn’t disappoint at all. Quirky, imaginative, and compelling, Mr. Darcy’s Rival is sure to be a home run for your summer reads list.
December 26, 2021
When I first tried to read this book, I didn't finish because I found the start wasn't enticing--it's a re-hash of canon. Too bad, because the multiple intermingling story lines are enough to keep one reading if one gets past that unfortunate opening.
This review is a technical review, so it won't deal with a synopsis or subjective opinions to any extent. Instead, I'll be reporting on those issues that can niggle when reading to the point that they cause a good reading experience to go downhill.
The title plot is well executed and the rival's
This review is a technical review, so it won't deal with a synopsis or subjective opinions to any extent. Instead, I'll be reporting on those issues that can niggle when reading to the point that they cause a good reading experience to go downhill.
The title plot is well executed and the rival's
January 17, 2021
The beginning half of the novel had me engaged and entertained. I enjoyed Darcy's jealousy, his longing for Lizzy was well written, and also there were some really tender and romantic scenes at Rosing's where we get Darcy's perspective. I also liked that Darcy's horrid canon proposal is interrupted and he gets the facts of life on how his actions and behavior have colored Lizzy's perspective of him. Lizzy also by fortune of a secret love letter Darcy wrote to her but never intended to send (got swept up in some divine intervention gust of wind) becomes aware that Darcy is violently in love with her. Now realizing they both have been blind to the others feelings this leads to interesting possibilities.
However I feel the author really fumbled in the second half after they return to London. The plot becomes more absurd with really outlandish with far out schemes and half assed motives;
I feel the paring loose some of their spark and a ridiculous amount of the last chapters are spent in detail about the month long planning of Jane and Bingley's wedding, which I love the cinnamon bun huns they are, but none of us are picking up Pride and Prejudice & variations to swoon over Bingley x Jane. Then we get a super rushed HEA and by then I feel like ODC have barely had sweet scenes or convinced me they are in love, its just vanilla flavored bland.
Still I like Kara Louise, Darcy's Voyage was good, if a bit far fetched but at least entertaining and romantic, this book was ok but by the end I was really struggling to finish it. I don't regret reading it but I wont be revisiting. It's worth a shot!
However I feel the author really fumbled in the second half after they return to London. The plot becomes more absurd with really outlandish with far out schemes and half assed motives;
I feel the paring loose some of their spark and a ridiculous amount of the last chapters are spent in detail about the month long planning of Jane and Bingley's wedding, which I love the cinnamon bun huns they are, but none of us are picking up Pride and Prejudice & variations to swoon over Bingley x Jane. Then we get a super rushed HEA and by then I feel like ODC have barely had sweet scenes or convinced me they are in love, its just vanilla flavored bland.
Still I like Kara Louise, Darcy's Voyage was good, if a bit far fetched but at least entertaining and romantic, this book was ok but by the end I was really struggling to finish it. I don't regret reading it but I wont be revisiting. It's worth a shot!
August 23, 2015
Kara Louise is one of my favorite Austenesque authors, and I always look forward to one of her stories. I’m happy to report that she has done it again with Mr. Darcy’s Rival! It might be my new favorite of hers, possibly tying with Mr. Darcy’s Voyage!
What if, while in Hunsford visiting Charlotte, there happens to be another guest at Rosings. Not Darcy, but another of Lady Catherine’s nephews on her late husband’s side of the family, Mr. Rickland. He has arrived before Darcy and has a full week to get to know Elizabeth before Darcy arrives. Darcy is surprised to find Elizabeth visiting in Kent, and he is annoyed to find Rickland there as well with his easy manners, enjoying Elizabeth’s company. Darcy now realizes Elizabeth is perfect for him, and he can't live without her, but is he too late? Will he lose her to Rickland?
With Mr. Rickland, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Darcy all at Rosings there is much more excitement and activity! Poor Darcy doesn't stand a chance with both Rickland and the Colonel monopolizing Elizabeth's attention!
I wasn’t a fan of Mr. Rickland, but of course, I’m never a fan of a rival of Darcy’s. ;) Elizabeth enjoys his company and likes that he seems to be singling her out. But I believe fate has a hand in getting Elizabeth and Darcy together in ways I’ll let you discover as you read the story yourself! But let me say, I took great pleasure in this version of “the letter".
I loved this Anne! She is still sickly and quiet, but she has a little something going on in the story that I quite enjoyed, and I loved how it turns out!
I would high recommend Mr. Darcy’s Rival for your reading pleasure! This Pride and Prejudice variation kept me up late into the night anticipating what was going to happen next! I loved it!
FTC Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of the story from the author.
What if, while in Hunsford visiting Charlotte, there happens to be another guest at Rosings. Not Darcy, but another of Lady Catherine’s nephews on her late husband’s side of the family, Mr. Rickland. He has arrived before Darcy and has a full week to get to know Elizabeth before Darcy arrives. Darcy is surprised to find Elizabeth visiting in Kent, and he is annoyed to find Rickland there as well with his easy manners, enjoying Elizabeth’s company. Darcy now realizes Elizabeth is perfect for him, and he can't live without her, but is he too late? Will he lose her to Rickland?
With Mr. Rickland, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Darcy all at Rosings there is much more excitement and activity! Poor Darcy doesn't stand a chance with both Rickland and the Colonel monopolizing Elizabeth's attention!
I wasn’t a fan of Mr. Rickland, but of course, I’m never a fan of a rival of Darcy’s. ;) Elizabeth enjoys his company and likes that he seems to be singling her out. But I believe fate has a hand in getting Elizabeth and Darcy together in ways I’ll let you discover as you read the story yourself! But let me say, I took great pleasure in this version of “the letter".
I loved this Anne! She is still sickly and quiet, but she has a little something going on in the story that I quite enjoyed, and I loved how it turns out!
I would high recommend Mr. Darcy’s Rival for your reading pleasure! This Pride and Prejudice variation kept me up late into the night anticipating what was going to happen next! I loved it!
FTC Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of the story from the author.
December 31, 2015
Kara Louise has written another exceptional book. There were twists and some surprises in this light-hearted story interspersed with suspense. Darcy has a rival for Elizabeth's affections and it's not Wickham. There is a deBurgh cousin who is visiting Rosings at the same time as Elizabeth and Darcy. Elizabeth finds out Darcy's true feelings for her and the explanation for her accusations against him, which softens her slightly in his favor. Darcy finds out Elizabeth is missing and, like a knight in shining armor, finds and rescues her. (That scene was so very romantic.) Shortly thereafter, while travelling together,Elizabeth begins reading a book written by Darcy's cousin, Anne, during which time she learns about Darcy's character and events that formed him. Wickham makes an appearance and at the end is a totally unexpected twist. I could not put this book down. A wonderful story!
December 31, 2015
Kara Louise never disappoints. Enjoyable read! Read straight through the night and suffered the next day with a satisfying book hangover. Totally worth it!
October 2, 2021
First, the title of the book only accounted for maybe a 30% of the story. I do not think the rival even had a personality. There was no depth to Mr. Rickland. I honestly would have believed it more if Fitzwilliam had been the rival and he had met Elizabeth before Darcy and they'd become friends earlier.
Unfortunately, I had a hard time remembering this is a fanfic, and I have to let some things slide by. But, to me, it felt like the author did not capture the essence of the characters; they did or said things that seemed highly unlikely to me. I could not suspend my belief for the sake of the plot either. The dialogue in some of the scenes made me cringe; it felt unnatural and forced even. I had a difficult time following and believing the details. Maybe I am nitpicking the story, but if not even the plot could entice me to find this story likeable, then it's a fail for me. I can overlook some things, but only if the plot or it's characters are strong enough to catch my interest. It was not working with me.
I know I am not liking a story when it takes me more than 2 weeks to finish it. It did not capture my interest and failed to impress upon me that these were the same beloved characters from P&P. Maybe some readers are okay with that, with the characters being OOC, but in this case I just couldn't digest it.
I am not sure I would like to keep reading more of this author's book, or maybe I need so time to get over this.
Unfortunately, I had a hard time remembering this is a fanfic, and I have to let some things slide by. But, to me, it felt like the author did not capture the essence of the characters; they did or said things that seemed highly unlikely to me. I could not suspend my belief for the sake of the plot either. The dialogue in some of the scenes made me cringe; it felt unnatural and forced even. I had a difficult time following and believing the details. Maybe I am nitpicking the story, but if not even the plot could entice me to find this story likeable, then it's a fail for me. I can overlook some things, but only if the plot or it's characters are strong enough to catch my interest. It was not working with me.
I know I am not liking a story when it takes me more than 2 weeks to finish it. It did not capture my interest and failed to impress upon me that these were the same beloved characters from P&P. Maybe some readers are okay with that, with the characters being OOC, but in this case I just couldn't digest it.
I am not sure I would like to keep reading more of this author's book, or maybe I need so time to get over this.
May 21, 2022
A fantastic read from cover to cover. I love how Kara Louise took Lizzy through the whole gambit of emotions, from total dislike to the deepest of love. Darcy, well, Darcy was, as always, haughty, proud and stand-offish.
It does not matter how many times I read a re-telling of P&P. There is always something new, and Kara Louise has done a wonderful job of taking Jane Austen's work and introducing another plausible element. I wish I could just let loose and blab all sorts of wonderful and exciting things that happened to our favourite couple, but that would not be allowed. Suffice it to say that Lizzy manages to get into a real predicament, Darcy is the hero, and someone new becomes a love interest.
I loved this book; I could not put it down once I started reading. I highly recommend this book to the reading public.
It does not matter how many times I read a re-telling of P&P. There is always something new, and Kara Louise has done a wonderful job of taking Jane Austen's work and introducing another plausible element. I wish I could just let loose and blab all sorts of wonderful and exciting things that happened to our favourite couple, but that would not be allowed. Suffice it to say that Lizzy manages to get into a real predicament, Darcy is the hero, and someone new becomes a love interest.
I loved this book; I could not put it down once I started reading. I highly recommend this book to the reading public.
May 7, 2018
It could've been great, but it lacked a bit of 'oomph' if that makes any sense.
The book is called Mr. Darcy's Rival so I thought that, ya know, Mr. Darcy's rival would have a bigger part in it but surprisingly he didn't have a big influence in the course of events in the story, he was more like a pesky fly instead of an intimidating rival.
Since the entire premise of this book was based on a rivalry I was expecting a lot of angst but there wasn't much, if any, here.
Buuuuuut, nonetheless, I'm a sucker for p&p and I enjoyed this variation of their story.
The book is called Mr. Darcy's Rival so I thought that, ya know, Mr. Darcy's rival would have a bigger part in it but surprisingly he didn't have a big influence in the course of events in the story, he was more like a pesky fly instead of an intimidating rival.
Since the entire premise of this book was based on a rivalry I was expecting a lot of angst but there wasn't much, if any, here.
Buuuuuut, nonetheless, I'm a sucker for p&p and I enjoyed this variation of their story.
December 24, 2017
Engaging Story
This was a great read. I enjoyed the twists and turns. Mr. Rickland was quite a character, and I loved the part that a certain letter and Miss DeBourgh's book played. It was hard to put this book down!
This was a great read. I enjoyed the twists and turns. Mr. Rickland was quite a character, and I loved the part that a certain letter and Miss DeBourgh's book played. It was hard to put this book down!
March 8, 2018
I have read some of the earlier books from this author, and while they were good, I found them to be somewhat choppy and hard to stick with to completion. This book, was much better. The story was entertaining, sweet, and clean. Great, quick read!
July 13, 2017
Really good
November 15, 2018
It was a sweet quick read.
September 9, 2018
Sorry, it was simply boring and I could not finish it.
December 8, 2018
I am rather particular when it comes to Austen fanfiction.
I did enjoy this one, but I was less taken by the addition of one more 'rival' in the story.
August 25, 2019
😊
Great story! It didnt have too much angst which i greatly appreciated. Loved reading this for sure 😁😊😊 definitely wouldnt mind re-reading it again someday.
Great story! It didnt have too much angst which i greatly appreciated. Loved reading this for sure 😁😊😊 definitely wouldnt mind re-reading it again someday.
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