Mr. Darcy to the Rescue: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

by Victoria Kincaid

When the irritating Mr. Collins proposes marriage, Elizabeth Bennet is prepared to refuse him, but then she learns that her father is ill. If Mr. Bennet dies, Collins will inherit Longbourn and her family will have nowhere to go. Elizabeth accepts the proposal, telling herself she can be content as long as her family is secure. If only she weren’t dreading the approaching wedding day…


Ever since leaving Hertfordshire, Mr. Darcy has been trying to forget his inconvenient attraction to Elizabeth. News of her betrothal forces him to realize how devastating it would be to lose her. He arrives at Longbourn intending to prevent the marriage, but discovers Elizabeth’s real opinion about his character. Then Darcy recognizes his true dilemma…


How can he rescue her when she doesn’t want him to?

Genres: Romance, Historical, Regency, Historical Fiction, Ebooks, Fiction, Historical Romance

201 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 5, 2015

About the author

Victoria has a Ph.D. in English literature and has taught composition to unwilling college students. Today she teaches business writing to willing office professionals and tries to give voice to the demanding cast of characters in her head.

She lives in Virginia with an overly affectionate cat, two children who are learning how much fun Austen’s characters can be, and a husband who fortunately is not jealous of Mr. Darcy. A lifelong Austen fan, Victoria has read more Jane Austen variations and sequels than she can count – and confesses to an extreme partiality for the Colin Firth miniseries version of Pride and Prejudice.

Visit her at www. victoriakincaid. com

Reviews

[Tadiana ✩Night Owl☽ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This P&P variation is a Kindle freebie as of June 13, 2017. I have a hard time resisting these kinds of freebies, and most of the time I chastise myself later for wasting my time. But yes, I've downloaded it. Because I need a little extra Mr Darcy in my life!

[Later] 2.5 stars. One more for the "marshmallows are less fluffy" shelf.



Read this if:
1. A story where Darcy spends the whole book pining after Elizabeth and wanting to kiss her face off and run his hands all over her body sounds like a good use of your reading time.
2. You aren't a stickler for historical accuracy. At all.
3. You like shallow romantic fluff.
4. The idea of reading about Darcy and Elizabeth kissing with tongue action doesn't squick you out.
5. You don't mind if characters from the original P&P have had a personality transplant. Or maybe a partial lobotomy?

It's highly fluffy but harmless.

[Claudine DiMuzio / Just Jane 1813 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Ms. Kincaid created a clever and fun P&P variation!

I waited eagerly for this book to get published and pressed the purchase button as soon as it arrived. It was a clever, light-hearted romp with our beloved characters... Same story given new twists and turns... There were lots of sweet moments and I really enjoyed Darcy and Elizabeth in this variation.

Mr. Collins is a toadish as ever and the interactions with him and ODC are funny... I always enjoy the new perspectives that Ms. Kincaid offers in her books, which I won't give away here...

I also enjoyed how Austen's own words were incorporated in new ways in this text... Loved Darcy's plotting and the way he helps Aunt Catherine become useful to ODC once again... Blue curtains... Yellow curtains... Oh, that would have never worked out! LOL!!

I always enjoy stories where Darcy and Elizabeth have lots of interactions and this story didn't disappoint in that regards either. The only wish I have is that the story was longer because I really wanted to spend more time with this Darcy and Elizabeth! Victoria Kincaid shows us again why she's one of my favorite JAFF authors!!!

[Talia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forget about Calgon, give me Mr Darcy.

Reread: Still loving this one!

Reread: LOVE!
Reread: LOVE!

[Cyndi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was absolutely adorable! I am a huge Jane Austen fan so I'm really hard on these "variations." But, this one was a lot of fun! Maybe it was the POV of Darcy, maybe it was the comedy, or maybe it was just the small twists that stayed true to the characters in the novel, but I thoroughly enjoyed it!
The story begins with Mr. Collins proposal to Elizabeth. Except this time her father urges her to accept because of his doctor's prognosis.
When Darcy hears Elizabeth is engaged he rides to stop the marriage. From there the story travels down a pathway of hilarity and romance.
Victoria Kincaid mixes in lines from Jane Austen's novel throughout in just the right places.
Excellent novel!!😊💕📖

[Ree · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very Good
When Elizabeth becomes engaged to Mr. Collins because of Mr. Bennet’s ill health, Darcy finds himself dealing with much regret and is determined to find a way to have her break the engagement. Things don’t quite go as planned, but close enough. Enjoyable and humorous at the right times. I recommend for a quick well-written read. Mr. Collins is indeed a toad.

September 22, 2022 - Audiobook
Very good narration and performance by Emma Lysy. I believe this is my first listen for this narrator and I really enjoyed her.

[Meredith (Austenesque Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars! What If Elizabeth Engaged Herself to Marry Mr. Collins?

TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation

TIME FRAME: Three months after Darcy and the Bingleys left Meryton

MAIN CHARACTERS: Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Bennet. Jane Bennet. Mr. Collins, Lady Catherine, Charles Bingley, and Caroline Bingley

WHY I WANTED TO READ THIS:

- Loved Pride and Proposals by this author, greatly enjoyed her style and wanted to read more!

- Elizabeth engaged to Mr. Collins? “Every feeling revolts!” Knowing how taboo it was to break an engagement, I was very curious to see how Elizabeth would get out of this situation.

- Mr. Darcy to the rescue?…umm yes please! I love of men of action saving their lady-loves!

WHAT I LOVED:

- Desperate Times Call For…: What if Mr. Bennet knew his health was failing and told Lizzy she should marry Mr. Collins to save her sisters and mother from homeless destitution? I could see her making that sacrifice. I could see her being selfless and abandon her dreams of marrying for love. I’ve seen some scenarios where Mr. Bennet demands Lizzy marry Mr. Collins because of his selfishness and negligence with Longbourn, but I don’t think I’ve read a premise where he he wishes but dares not ask it of her. It places Lizzy in quite a quandary and was an interesting premise to explore.

- Elizabeth + Mr. Collins: The happiest engaged couple in the world…not!! I think Victoria Kincaid wonderfully portrayed what an oblivious buffoon Mr. Collins would be around Elizabeth – with his ridiculous terms of endearment and mistaken presumptions of her thoughts and feelings. It’s cringe-worthy! And she also accurately illustrated Elizabeth’s private inner turmoil. Her feelings of mortification around her fiancé, secret sorrow about her father, and resolve to see this plan through and save her family.

- A Determined Darcy: When Mr. Darcy learns of Elizabeth’s engagement he doesn’t sit at home and brood, he becomes a man of action. He realizes what he’s wanted all alone and he is prepared to do anything to get it – even if it means being forward, high-handed, and practicing a little deceit. A Darcy with such confidence and determination is very sexy in my opinion! I loved the irony of him, fearing and loathing the manipulations and machinations of others these past years, engaging and plotting his own set of plans. And seeing his reaction and remorse when they all fell down around his ears! It was touching to see how much he fervently wanted Lizzy and how desperate he was to win her heart. I especially loved when he started speak of his feelings in a more direct manner and flirt with obvious intent. He was adorable!

- Mr. Darcy vs Mr. Collins: It was quite fun to see these two as rivals so to speak! Mr. Darcy is so honorable he doesn’t dare speak of his feelings while Elizabeth is engaged, but at the same time he has no issue with out-smarting Mr. Collins in order to spend some one-on-one time with Elizabeth alone. I enjoyed seeing Mr. Darcy interact and become infuriated with a person who wants to shower him with attention and adulation! Many laugh out loud moments!

WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:

- A Timeline Quibble: It looks like Mr. Collins proposed several months after the Netherfield Ball, which was a little puzzling. I was left wondering why he waited so long, why Jane wasn’t in London still, and why Caroline Bingley kept an active correspondence with Jane if she wanted to drop the acquaintance. I don’t mind if an author chooses to alter the timeline of the story a little, but it may be helpful if that change was explained or mentioned in a Author’s Note in the beginning.

CONCLUSION:

Another enthralling and entertaining variation by Victoria Kincaid! I greatly enjoyed the thought-provoking premise, emotional exploration, and the chance to observe Mr. Darcy rivaled against Mr. Collins! Mr. Darcy to the Rescue is a wonderful choice if you are looking for a creative, romantic, low-angst, and fast-paced read!

[Les · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful, angsty P&P what if. We get a brilliant Mr. Darcy who shows what he will do to save Lizzy Bennet from a fate worse than death. Beginning after the Netherfield Ball when Lizzy is faced with Mr. Collins' proposal her father confesses that he is very ill and only if she marries Collins will they be saved; so she sucks it up and agrees.

When Darcy learns of the engagement he hies himself off to Meryton to try to find a loophole to end the engagement. He spends a lot of time at Longbourn much to Lizzy's confusion and consternation. When Mr. Collins co0mes to visit Darcy realizes deliverance is at hand with the assistance of Lady Catherine and soon Lizzy is invited to come to Rosings to meet the Dragon Lady herself. Darcy offers a ride and Jane tags along for chaperoning detail. Once there Lizzy is Lizzy and Lady Catherine tells Mr. Collins to end the engagement; but Darcy is baffled he plan went awry and now Lizzy is potentially ruined for being jilted. So he whisks her & Jane off to Pemberley where he is the Cary Grant of Darcys. I just love this fun, enthusiastic, flirty Darcy. Oh and Caroline Bingley gets put in her place, and ruins a table cloth.

Of course there is a bit more angst before ODC get their HEA and Jane and Bingley find each other.

[Sheila Majczan · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

“He would rescue Elizabeth and in the process - he now realized – rescue himself from a lifetime of loneliness.” So ODB is off and running.

I must say that this Darcy had a few surprises for me. In canon, and most stories, he is a man who stands at the window, or in the corners of a room, stares at Elizabeth and then makes inappropriate or completely misinterpreted remarks. His famous..."tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me." reverberates in our minds when we think of the beginnings of ODC's relationship. In this delightfully humorous variation, Darcy does utter that, but we only read of it in retrospection when he meets Elizabeth at Oakham Mount while he is riding to Longbourn. (“If only he could go back in time and slap himself.”) He has returned to the area alone, to attempt to change the course of events he has learned about in a letter from Jane to Caroline.

Darcy, in grasping for solutions, is very quick with his verbal responses in two major twists with first, Mr. Collins, and then with his Aunt Catherine. I, along with Elizabeth, could not believe what came out of his mouth. Isn't this the man who in canon said "…disguise of every sort is my abhorrence"? And then to hope that Elizabeth does not call him on it! (Mouths agape.) Really adorable and laughable at the same time. But he doesn't have all the facts as to why Elizabeth acted as she did and in reaching for his own happiness he might just be ensuring Elizabeth's disgrace and disaster for her family. When he visit at Longbourn he overhears just what the entire family thinks of him through an open doorway as his presence is discussed by the women of the family. How mistaken he is about his status in their eyes. And then we also read of a man who goes to great lengths to manipulate events. (Do I know this man?)

Elizabeth cannot determine why this man is even in the neighborhood much less visiting in their home frequently. He says he is there for the hunting. As things progress from Elizabeth we read thoughts of “…clearly she had not appreciated before the degree to which honor and a sense of justice provoked Mr. Darcy’s actions”.

At one point I almost lost my breakfast as I read of Collins’ words, “My dearest Elizabeth and I seem to have been formed for each other.” BARF! Darcy thinks he is so clever but, oh, my, the results of that manipulation jump up like stepping on a hoe which springs up and hits one in the face. As he bumbles about trying to untwist the disaster he has now caused…well, readers, please read for your selves.

I did so enjoy this version. It was a very short read and helped to make a day more enjoyable as I read of this man who arranged pieces for a Happily Ever After.

(I did agree with the one review questioning things such as "How did the Gardiners know of Jane's and Elizabeth's visit at Pemberley?")

[J. W. Garrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Mine!” by Fitzwilliam Darcy [4.5-stars]

MINE!!! How many time have we heard children yell that when another child tries to play with their favorite toy. That is sort of the concept we are dealing with here. Elizabeth Bennet is the toy and Darcy and Collins are fighting over possession of her. I though it too crude to say ‘over who would play with… you know…’ here in this review. I think you will agree.

Those who know P&P, know that after the Netherfield Ball, Darcy and Bingley left for London, on business. After they left, Bingley’s sisters immediately closed up the Netherfield house and joined him in London with the excuse they wanted to celebrate the Festive Season in town. It was their intention to keep their brother busy so he wouldn’t return to Hertfordshire and make an offer for Jane Bennet.

Meanwhile, at Longbourn, breakfast was interrupted with Mr. Collins requesting a private audience with Miss Elizabeth. We all know where this was going. He made an abysmal proposal and she promptly refused him. Collins sent her to her father and her father told her a secret that she was to keep from the family. He then suggested she accept Collins for the sake of her family… the future of her mother and her sisters. OMG!! She was afraid that if she didn’t, with Bingley gone and unsure he would ever return, Jane would.

Sometime later, in London, Caroline received a letter from Jane and read it to the table at large. Darcy, of course, was present when she gleefully announced an engagement at Longbourn between that buffoon Mr. Collins and one of his Bennet cousins. Both Bingley and Darcy froze until Caroline said Miss Eliza Bennet.

Like my first analogy regarding the children, it was one thing for Darcy to walk away from Elizabeth on his terms. However, when another man was now picking up his toy… suddenly, Darcy wanted it back. Oh, Lord.

The rest of the book was Darcy trying desperately to mend his bad reputation in Meryton, first with Elizabeth, then her father, the rest of her family and still keep Mr. Collins at bay. His strategy soon involved Lady Catherine… she always liked being useful. Jane and Elizabeth were sent to Kent in order to meet Lacy C. When things went terribly wrong, Darcy whisked Elizabeth and Jane off to Pemberley, where Bingley was waiting. Patch up one problem and tackle the rest one at a time. A man can only do so much.

This was so cute, clean and adorable. It moved rather quickly and some things were just too much even for our favorite couple. However, I loved the page-time with ODC [our dear couple] and enjoyed Darcy trying desperately to find his voice so he could talk to Elizabeth. I loved being in their heads and hearing their thoughts as they worked their way through their emotions and feelings. Yeah, it was cute.

This was a free offer through Amazon. I was so happy to get it.

[Mela · Rating 3 out of 5]

...he felt an almost maddening impulse to call for a carriage and carry her off to Derbyshire that minute

One thing is sure, Darcy in this book wasn't Austen's Darcy. If you can accept it you have a chance to like it. But you must be open for a more spicy version. No, there were no sex scenes, it would be too much. But there were kisses and Darcy cursed in thoughts often.

I was annoyed a few times. For example, how many handkerchiefs could a man have in the pockets? ;-) [And the cover! Really?]

Nonetheless, I had a good time. It was something new. And, what is important, although there was definitely a modern pen, the way of writing, one can see Victoria Kincaid knows and loves P&P and she tried to be accurate. It was also quite funny.

Presently, it is available for free on Amazon.

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story starts when Darcy and the Bingleys have left Netherfield. Mr Collins proposes to Elizabeth and tells her he has her fathers support. Due to receiving bad news about his health, Mr Bennet insists Elizabeth marry Mr Collins. Meanwhile in London, Darcy reads about Elizabeth's engagement and decides he has to travel to Hertfordshire, make her fall in live with him and marry her himself. However, on arrival, he soon realises that he completely underestimated the task at hand. Elizabeth doesn't even like him.

What follows is very humorous as Darcy tries to find ways to sabotage the engagement and press his suit.

To enjoy this book, it cannot be taken too seriously. Darcy is very forward in his intentions whilst Elizabeth doesn't know if he's joking or not. It makes for a funny, romantic read but is not particularly realistic in its approach.

[Talia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It is such a super cute and clever storyline. I would recommend it highly. My one complaint is that the author needs to write more books faster. ;)

Reread: Loved it!

[Rita Deodato · Rating 4 out of 5]

https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...

I had recently written that I would really like to read a book where Mr. Darcy knew of Mr. Collins proposal. I always thought it would be interesting to read about his reaction to this news. But in my mind I always thought about Mr. Darcy discovering Collins had proposed, rushing to Longbourn to try ascertain the situation and discovering that Elizabeth had refused Mr. Collins.

Visctoria Kincaid took this to a whole different level! What if Elizabeth was about to refuse Mr. Collins when she discovered her father was very ill and could die in the next months? What if this new information made her accept Mr. Collins to secure stability to her family? And what if Mr. Darcy discovered she was engaged to Mr. Collins after the fact?

This premise was even better than what I had imagined. I loved it! Mr. Darcy realizes he cannot live without Elizabeth and he cannot bear to see her married to someone else, especially Mr. Collins, so he comes to the rescue!

Mr. Darcy travels to Longbourn in the hopes of ending Elizabeth’s engagement to Mr. Collins and gaining her affection, but of course, things are never this simple and we end up visiting Kent, Derbyshire and London as well. One of the things I loved in this book is that we visit all these places in the company of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy.

We are constantly reading about their interactions, of course there are other characters, but Elizabeth and Darcy are present in most of the book, and this is something I really enjoy. After reading so many JAFF books I confess I’m more and more interested in Elizabeth and Darcy’s interactions than the rescue of Lydia, for example. Even though I did like Lydia’s rescue in this book. I will not give any details as I don’t want to spoil it for you, but it is very funny.

The journey is lighthearted, fresh and funny. I adored reading the book from the perspective of both characters, and I loved reading their thoughts in the middle of the conversations. It made me feel closer to them, and it made the book funnier.

The Darcy in this book is romantic, decided, but with his natural flaws which just makes him perfect. Elizabeth is true to herself and we see her fall in love with Darcy in a charming way.

This is the 3rd book I’ve read from Victoria Kincaid, and once again she wrote a book that is never boring and that keeps urging us to read it without stopping. I was just sad it was so short. I would like to have read much more, for example, more Darcy scenes by himself at Netherfield, more interactions at Rosings between Elizabeth and Lady Catherine, but also between Lizzy and Darcy, more Elizabeth’s confidences to Jane in Pemberley, etc.

I consider this book quite different from the other 2 I have read from Victoria Kincaid (and that I loved!) which proves to me she is really a creative writer. She can write different types of books and provide us pleasurable moments each time. The only reason I didn’t rate this book higher is because of the length, but definitely a good book to read.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this book. I couldn't put it down and read it in one day. I've enjoyed every book by Ms. Kincaid. Her variations are so much fun to read. She always puts our beloved characters in clever new situations. This Mr. Darcy goes through a lot of emotions, he's tortured, brooding, and also quite ornery. I loved it when he put certain others (Caroline & Lady Catherine) in their place. Elizabeth is delightful as always. Mrs. Bennett nearly swoons and I've yet to read anything that handles toady Mr. Collins so well at the end. It really is Mr. Darcy to the Rescue. Great title and great book. Don't miss it JAFF fans!

[Emily (biblioblondes) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this P&P Variation! Darcy was so cute and persistent. He took action. I love that!
Mr. Collins was revoltingly hilarious with his pet names and sweet talk... I laughed and felt sick all in the same moment.
Elizabeth was Great too and I enjoyed seeing her self sacrificing spirit for her family.
Oh and the kiss at Pemberley? Wow! That was quite the first kiss!
I will definitely be buying more of Ms. Kincaid's variations!

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

A funny,fast paced ,sweet,romantic read recommended for all lovers of ODC.

[Katja · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a funny story. Perhaps partly out of character but I did not mind the least because I was so well entertained throughout. Elizabeth is persuaded to enter into an engagement with Mr. Collins because Mr. Bennet has heart trouble. Darcy is distraught and jealous hearing about it, and he decides to go to Hertfordshire to see if he couldn't persuade Elizabeth to jilt Mr. Collins and marry him instead. It would be scandalous but he finds that he could more easily bear scandal than losing her. He thinks the inquisition of his aunt might be helpful and writes to Lady C who invites Elizabeth to Rosings before the wedding. Hijinks ensue and although disguise is his abhorrence Darcy is sometimes tempted to utter a falsehood and even when he's telling the absolute truth he is not always believed.

Steam level: Kissing.

[Wealhtheow · Rating 3 out of 5]

The cover art is dire, but the story is good. This is a slightly alternative take on Pride and Prejudice, wherein Elizabeth accepts Mr. Collins's marriage proposal, thus spurring Mr.Darcy to realize the depth of his feelings for her before he does in the book. The story is told well, the characters matched their P&P counterparts, and there are none of the anachronisms I'm used to in Regency romances. I think the ending was a bit swift and wrapped up too many characters and plot points too neatly, but even with that I quite enjoyed this read.

[abmom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a perfect low angst story to lift up your spirits. Darcy was positively wicked at many places in the book that you'll love him all the more for it. There are some nauseating romance spewed by Collins to Elizabeth during their engagement but Darcy does end up punching his jaw for that. So, all is well. I know the story has some dubious behaviours of impropriety but I felt some silliness is a good price to pay for the fun I had.

[Georgiana 1792 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Una variation di Pride and Prejudice che parte dal presupposto che Mr. Bennet non pronunci le famose parole:
"Hai di fronte una triste alternativa, Elizabeth. Da oggi dovrai essere un'estranea per uno dei tuoi genitori. Tua madre non vorrà più vederti se non sposi Mr. Collins, e io non vorrò più vederti se lo sposi." al capitolo 20 del romanzo, dopo la proposta di Mr. Collins.
Questo perché Mr. Bennet ha scoperto di essere malato di cuore e non vuole morire lasciando tutta la famiglia allo sbando. Quando fa sapere a Elizabeth di essere malato, la giovane si sacrifica e si fidanza con Mr. Collins.
Quando Mr. Darcy lo viene a sapere, su rende conto di essere profondamente innamorato di Elizabeth e di desiderare sposarla al posto di Mr. Collins. Così corre a Meryton per cercare di testare la situazione e trovare un modo per far rompere il fidanzamento e/o proporsi a Elizabeth.
Con un'invadenza non meno bizzarra di quella di personaggi della stregua di Lady Catherine (dopo tutto è sua zia) o dello stesso Mr. Collins, Darcy si presenta tutti i giorni a Longbourn e interferisce nella frequentazione tra i "due piccioncini" (con non poco sollievo di Elizabeth).
Vedendo che la situazione non si evolve in alcun modo, poi, decide di scrivere alla zia parlandole di Elizabeth e spingendo Lady Catherine a invitarla, sperando che si arrivi alla rottura del fidanzamento.
L'idea è molto carina, ma avrei sviluppato un po' di più alcune situazioni, che mi sono sembrate un po' frettolose. C'è anche qualche incongruenza, perché, come facevano dopo appena tre giorni i signori Bennet a sapere che Lizzie e Jane erano a Pemberley (soprattutto visto come ci sono arrivate), e, dopo la fuga di Lydia, riuscire ad avvertire gli zii Gardiner e chiedere loro di passare a prendere le due figlie maggiori da Pembreley?
Però questo Mr. Darcy un po' dispettoso mi è piaciuto molto.

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a welcome change from the majority of Pride and Prejudice variations out there. In this book Elizabeth actually accepts Mr. Collins' proposal to save her family from poverty after Mr. Bennet dies in the future. When Darcy hears about the engagement he travels to Meryton to change her mind and get her marry him instead. Hilarity ensues from Darcy's scheme to break off their betrothal (which sort of backfires by the way) to people's own reaction to his own engagement to Lizzy. This book had me laughing through the majority of it. I just wish that the book was a little longer. Towards the end it did seem a little rushed to me. But I did enjoy this book and I hope to see more titles in the future from Ms. Kincaid.

Rating: 4½ stars out 5

[Courtney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mr. Darcy, Mr. Darcy, Mr. Darcy, why do all women want you so? I just do not understand it.

If you enjoy remakes of the great and wonderful Jane Austen, then you will most definitely enjoy this story with a bit of a twist. However, the main disappointment for me has always been and will always be the fact that Mr. Darcy always lets me down.

I cannot fathom what makes this man so worthy in the eyes of many, he lets social situations dictate who he loves and doesn't care how it affects the other person! To me, he has been and always will be, selfish. He doesn't want Elizabeth until she has been forcefully driven into the arms of another man. This makes him a coward in my opinion.

Harsh, yes? But so very true.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED!!

Wonderful variation of Pride and Prejudice. Definitely need to be a fan of the original to enjoy this book, but I loved it. The characters still feel like themselves which is so important. Couldn't put this one down and will be looking for more from this author.

[Kristen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a fun version of P&P - more from Darcy's perspective and humorous in spots. I liked the plot and the characters were lively. :o)

Moral Note: Some mild innuendos, and passionate kisses.

[Carol Perrin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr. Darcy to the Rescue: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

I think there are several reasons to read this again. Was enjoyable to watch Darcy fluctuate from wanting to strangle Collins to figuring how to break the engagement. Caroline Bingley tries her best to use the information in Jane's letter to convince Darcy that is marrying within her sphere. Caroline doesn't get that Elizabeth is above her sphere. With all her money, she couldn't buy enough lady like personality to be more than she is. Putting an orange dress on an ASS doesn't make but an ASS in an orange dress. Well, it had the opposite effect on Darcy. He's off to Longbourn. Slowly, Elizabeth begins to see another Fitzwilliam Darcy. One that she quite likes. He sees that she is miserable and comes up with a plan. Surprised to be summoned to Rosings, Elizabeth cannot get total control of her impertinent remarks. Collins breaks the betrothal. Elizabeth is happy, but fears for her family. Darcy convinces her and Jane to travel to Pemberley for a few days. Elizabeth agrees with the idea, because Bingley will be at Pemberley. Unfortunately, so are his sisters. During dinner, Caroline becomes her usual smart mouth self badgering Elizabeth. When she hits upon Elizabeth's betrothal, after trying not to give facts about why it was broken, when Caroline begins to question again, and Darcy who has been stewing listening to her, blurbs out that she couldn't marry Collins because she is betrothed to him. Just rereading her response to the announcement was worth the price of the book. During her stay, his servants know their Master and when Lydia's stupidity is uncovered, Elizabeth tries to sneak out with a letter explaining why they cannot be together. But his butler gives the letter that was supposed to be given after she left, gives it immediately to Darcy. He catches her before she leaves and finally gets her to explain the whole scandal. When he convinces her of his love regardless, she agrees to marry him. In London, Mr. Bennet is put out by Darcy's high handed confession, but when entering steps in, he agrees not only of the betrothal, but his help to find Lydia. He also calls in his own doctor to attend Mr. Bennet and his health issues aren't as bad as he believed. Problem is solved with Lydia and Wickham, Bingley, Jane and Elizabeth return to Longbourn with Darcy to arrive later. Collins arrives to try and convinces Elizabeth to take him back. Not only is a toad, but he's stupid, too. As he is trying to compromise her, Darcy comes through the door and punches him. He and Lady Catherine thought they could divide and conquer, but when Collins admits to compromising her, Darcy says he was first to compromise her with a kiss. While Mrs. Bennet is screaming her usual screech, Mr. Bennet informs her of their betrothal which momentarily silenced her and when she starts up again tells her about Jane and Bingley. Happy ending. Liked this Darcy, because when he heard about Elizabeth's betrothal, he acted without much debate about position and wealth. Caroline was so instrumental in bringing them together.

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elizabeth plans to refuse Mr. Collins, but when her father tells her he is ill and may not live long, she realizes she is the only sister in a position to save the Bennet family from ruin. She changes her answer and accepts him instead.

Meanwhile, in London, Mr. Darcy is pining away for Elizabeth when he hears of her engagement. He realizes he cannot live without her, and determines only he can rescue her from the toady Mr. Collins. He immediately heads to Longbourn with the plan to propose to her and sweep her off her feet to Pemberley.

However, things do not go as planned for our hero as he overhears a conversation among the Bennet sisters and realizes the poor impression he has left with them and all of Meryton. In order to save the woman he loves, he must convince her that life with him would be preferable to life at Hunsford with Collins and Lady Catherine.

Aha! He writes to Lady Catherine about Elizabeth describing the lovely, vivacious, intelligent, outspoken woman she is. As expected, Lady C. determines she cannot wait for the wedding to meet this woman her vicar plans to install at Hunsford. Once again, Darcy's plans go astray.

Of course, our couple eventually achieves their HEA, but only after slightly rocky starts and stops. This is a very charming story about our dear couple, and it is full of humor. I teared up a couple of times as Darcy expresses his history and his vulnerability to Elizabeth, but the story is basically light and sweet. And, despite a few lusty thoughts on Darcy's part, the story is clean.

Definitely highly recommended as an antidote for gray autumn days. Best read before a warm fire with a glass of wine or sherry. Enjoy!

[Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5ish. This is a tale of Mr. Darcy saving Lizzy from a life of being Mrs. Collins. Darcy is filled with a whirlwind of emotions when he learns Elizabeth Bennet is betrothed to Mr. Collins and none of them are good. This is the catalyst that spurs him into action to try and find a solution that would spare the woman that he realizes he can’t live without from such a fate. I enjoyed the first half of this book and loved seeing D&E start to see each other differently and come to understand one another better. I was amused by some of his tactics to accomplish his purpose. The second half was not quite as satisfying. Darcy started to seem a little too much like a love struck teenager instead of a grown man with responsibilities and such. There was also some pretty big breaches in propriety that were a bit hard for me to completely overlook. There were some really sweet scenes and while I wouldn’t say it was great, it was good and enjoyable.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this Pride and Prejudice variation on the day that Mr. Collins proposes to Elizabeth her father informs her of his ill health. Elizabeth now feels she cannot reject him.
On hearing of the betrothal, Darcy decides he must take action to stop the marriage. But does he makes the situation worse?
Delightful book, the only thing and it is minor that I didn't like was the use of the word homicide instead of murder by Elizabeth.

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story veers from the original P&P story at the time of Mr. Collins proposal. Mr. Bennet is sick and isn't sure how long he will live and therefore how long the family will be able to stay in the house. He lets Lizzie know this before she rejects Mr. Collins so that she can take it into account when deciding whether she should accept him or not. I like this set up of a scenario, because it feels like something that plausibly could have happened to veer the story into a different direction.

Mr. Darcy is attracted to Elizabeth, and realizes that he would like to marry her in spite of her being engaged to Mr. Collins and her inferior connections. He initially doesn't know about Longborn being entailed away from the women in the family. He goes about trying to get her to break the engagement by trying to get her to know Lady Catherine and how terrible it would be to live with both Mr. Collins and under her patronage. He writes Lady Catherine, mentioning how spirited Elizabeth is , with the idea of Lady Catherine inviting Elizabeth to visit prior to her getting married to Mr. Collins to suss out whether she's an appropriate match for him. This is where things go off the rails a bit for regency time period. Elizabeth so insults Lady Catherine that Mr. Collins breaks off the engagement, which is really insulting for a man to do for a woman, vs allowing her to break it off if things don't seem like they are working.

Mr. Darcy considers proposing right after he finds Elizabeth crying after the broken engagement, but he doesn't want that to be the context for his proposal. Instead he offers to take Elizabeth and Jane to Pemberly so that Elizabeth doesn't have to go back in disgrace to her family right away. Conveniently, Bingly and his sister are also on their way to Pemberly, so this potentially provides Jane with an inducement to go, in order to see him and figure out what happened. Mr. Darcy eventually proposes, shenanigans ensue, and then everything ends up with a HEA.

Previously I had read Victoria Kincaid's President Darcy, which I really liked as a modern adaptation. I think that she does better in the modern day setting, as she was taking a lot of liberties with Jane Austen's time that just didn't feel like they made sense to me. I'm OK with a story set in Regency times that wants to break the rules of that time, but if that's the case I want that to be part of the set up of the story and clearly articulated to the reader. There are also some things that seem out of character, and timeline inconsistencies that don't seem to make much sense.

[Carole Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can't help but love a good P&P variation and this was a freebie on Amazon, so I couldn't resist picking this one up.

The story starts out with Mr. Collins proposing to Elizabeth. Instead of denying him, Elizabeth has to say yes. Why? Well - her dad is dying and this is best for the family. At the same time Mr. Darcy is having internal conflict about what he should or shouldn't do about his feelings for Elizabeth. Of course he finds out she is proposed to the idiot Mr. Collins and decides that he needs to save her from Mr. Collins gross embrace.

What an interesting turn of story. Kuddos to Elizabeth for doing what, at the time, is best for the family. I'm glad it forced Mr. Darcy's hand to move up his plans and try and win her.

This was a fun, light read. Poor Darcy is so in love with Elizabeth and it broke my heart. However, I really feel that Darcy was not-so Darcyie. He was like a teenage boy drooling over Elizabeth and pinning for her ALL DAY. I grew to like him, but I was annoyed with him at first.


The ending was the best. I loved when Darcy taught Mr. Collins a lesson. It was great...I huzzahed at the end.

Overall, this was a fun read. It took a bit for me to get used to this version of Darcy. I recommend giving this a read if you are looking for a short and fun P&P variation. Out of five stars, I shall give this 4 stars.