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Yours Forevermore, Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy has a secret.
The letter he presents to Miss Elizabeth Bennet after his ghastly proposal is not the only epistle he has written her. In this tale of longing, misadventure, and love—readapted from Jane Austen’s dearly loved Pride & Prejudice—our hero finds a powerful way of coping with his attraction to Miss Bennet. He writes her unsent letters.
The misguided suitor has declared himself, and Elizabeth Bennet has refused him, most painfully. Without intending for these letters to become known to another soul, Mr. Darcy relies on his secret for coping once again. However, these letters, should they fall into the wrong hands, could create untold scandal, embarrassment, and possibly heartbreak. But what happens if they fall into the right hands?
The letter he presents to Miss Elizabeth Bennet after his ghastly proposal is not the only epistle he has written her. In this tale of longing, misadventure, and love—readapted from Jane Austen’s dearly loved Pride & Prejudice—our hero finds a powerful way of coping with his attraction to Miss Bennet. He writes her unsent letters.
The misguided suitor has declared himself, and Elizabeth Bennet has refused him, most painfully. Without intending for these letters to become known to another soul, Mr. Darcy relies on his secret for coping once again. However, these letters, should they fall into the wrong hands, could create untold scandal, embarrassment, and possibly heartbreak. But what happens if they fall into the right hands?
271 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2015
208 people are currently reading
635 people want to read
About the author
KaraLynne Mackrory
15 books225 followersKaraLynne is an amazing mother who never makes mistakes, never gets upset with her children and never ever has a dirty house. Ever. She always has her dishes done and the floors spotless and dinner is always prepared and ready on time. Her kids are always clean, polite, respectful and loving, especially to each other. She never gets irritated with her husband when he doesn’t turn his socks right side out for the laundry and they always agree on everything. She delights in nothing else but to serve her family and never wants or needs time for herself. She takes great care to shower every day and put make up on so that she is always beautiful and presentable. She never wears her pajamas all day or for days in a row and she is the epitome of womanhood. Most of all, she has a great sense of humor and loves to write.
Although, admittedly a Darcy addict, she enjoys many things, such as: Mr. Knightly, Edmund Bertram, Captain Wentworth, Mr. Tilney and John Thornton. She is happily married to her own Mr. Darcy and together they share the insanity inducing responsibility of raising 4 children.
Although, admittedly a Darcy addict, she enjoys many things, such as: Mr. Knightly, Edmund Bertram, Captain Wentworth, Mr. Tilney and John Thornton. She is happily married to her own Mr. Darcy and together they share the insanity inducing responsibility of raising 4 children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
October 13, 2015
There are many avenues one can take to love, but I confess that one that I enjoy is when a romance involves correspondence. The pen can sometimes say more clearly what the lips cannot. I eagerly picked up this Pride & Prejudice variation as a result. What if Mr. Darcy put all his thoughts on Elizabeth into secret letters that he never planned to mail? And what would happen if she somehow received them?
Oh yes, I certainly wanted to find out.
The story opens two months after Hunsford, but then flashes back to get the reader au currant with the present situation. There is an assumption that readers will already be familiar with the original Pride & Prejudice story, but I think someone new to it might be okay if they have the patience to let the backstory tease out after some initial bewilderment.
The story begins with Darcy contemplating his lost chance at love with Elizabeth. At first, he is angry at the woman who scorned him and terribly heartbroken. He just wants to be away from her. Unfortunately, due to a chain of circumstances, he is brought repeatedly into her presence. He has no hope that this is a second chance, but does hope that he can at least show her that she was very wrong about him before they part for good. Later, he is determined to change and be a man worthy of her even if he never gets another opportunity with Elizabeth. In the meantime, he bares his soul in letters to Elizabeth that he even directs to her and seals up, but then he hides them away.
Elizabeth thought she detested the man who arrogantly proposed to her, but it is not long before his letter defending himself against her charges to his character work upon her. She misjudged the man, utterly. Further encounters between them unsettle her, because seen through less prejudiced eyes, Darcy is a worthy man and she feels the sorrow of the way she rejected him and destroyed any chances of remaining the object of his love. Or is there still a chance?
Darcy and Elizabeth share the narration of this story. I loved how the author took the opportunity to stay within the timeline of the original P&P story, but also fill in the gaps of what happened in Darcy's life away from Elizabeth. Oh, not that there aren't a few distinct changes that come about as a result of Darcy or Lizzy's actions. The ones involving Wickham and Lydia were great as was the extended time with Georgiana and Col. Fitzwilliam.
It is a gentle story that is slower-paced slowly building the romance and growing the characters. Darcy and Lizzy were hard on each other at first and then hard on themselves. There's a lot of introspection in this one which suited the style of the story.
The author did a wonderful job of settling the story in the time period and in the world of Jane Austen. There wasn't a strong attention to details other than in specific instances, but it added depth rather than distracted from the story.
I should probably say that since I mentioned the letters earlier; that the actual contents aren't available until nearer the end of the story. They are beautiful letters and worth it. I got terribly swoony over them.
All in all, this was a splendid variation on the original that I would recommend to Austenesque Lovers in particular and, in general, to lovers of Sweet Romance.
My thanks to Meryton Press for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Oh yes, I certainly wanted to find out.
The story opens two months after Hunsford, but then flashes back to get the reader au currant with the present situation. There is an assumption that readers will already be familiar with the original Pride & Prejudice story, but I think someone new to it might be okay if they have the patience to let the backstory tease out after some initial bewilderment.
The story begins with Darcy contemplating his lost chance at love with Elizabeth. At first, he is angry at the woman who scorned him and terribly heartbroken. He just wants to be away from her. Unfortunately, due to a chain of circumstances, he is brought repeatedly into her presence. He has no hope that this is a second chance, but does hope that he can at least show her that she was very wrong about him before they part for good. Later, he is determined to change and be a man worthy of her even if he never gets another opportunity with Elizabeth. In the meantime, he bares his soul in letters to Elizabeth that he even directs to her and seals up, but then he hides them away.
Elizabeth thought she detested the man who arrogantly proposed to her, but it is not long before his letter defending himself against her charges to his character work upon her. She misjudged the man, utterly. Further encounters between them unsettle her, because seen through less prejudiced eyes, Darcy is a worthy man and she feels the sorrow of the way she rejected him and destroyed any chances of remaining the object of his love. Or is there still a chance?
Darcy and Elizabeth share the narration of this story. I loved how the author took the opportunity to stay within the timeline of the original P&P story, but also fill in the gaps of what happened in Darcy's life away from Elizabeth. Oh, not that there aren't a few distinct changes that come about as a result of Darcy or Lizzy's actions. The ones involving Wickham and Lydia were great as was the extended time with Georgiana and Col. Fitzwilliam.
It is a gentle story that is slower-paced slowly building the romance and growing the characters. Darcy and Lizzy were hard on each other at first and then hard on themselves. There's a lot of introspection in this one which suited the style of the story.
The author did a wonderful job of settling the story in the time period and in the world of Jane Austen. There wasn't a strong attention to details other than in specific instances, but it added depth rather than distracted from the story.
I should probably say that since I mentioned the letters earlier; that the actual contents aren't available until nearer the end of the story. They are beautiful letters and worth it. I got terribly swoony over them.
All in all, this was a splendid variation on the original that I would recommend to Austenesque Lovers in particular and, in general, to lovers of Sweet Romance.
My thanks to Meryton Press for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2015
Janeites, purists, JAFF fans - I do believe you will more than "like" this story. This is one which closely follows canon beginning after the Hunsford proposal (without quoting line by line JA’s prose) but with references back to the events with which we are familiar. The author delights us by inserting letters...letters which Darcy began the day after meeting and insulting that one "not handsome enough to tempt him”. These letters reveal in depth all the angst he is going through and also the true interpretation to his actions when in Elizabeth’s presence. We know she sees him as haughty, aloof and judgmental. Here we read what he was in truth feeling – was she right in her judgments and does he then acknowledge such?
I have to admit that there were several times when my throat tightened and my eyes blurred. When you read of the depths of Darcy's despair I defy you not to be affected. We all know of the 5 steps of grief following a traumatic event in one's life: a major illness, a death, (usually). In reading Darcy's letters I was reminded of those. And when he arrives at the "acceptance", at "letting go", my mind and my heart collapsed with a sigh and pondered, "Where to go from here?"
Jane Austen's P&P doesn't give us a look into the minds, at the thoughts and feeling the parties are experiencing. We are a third party looking on the scene, an audience looking upon a stage. Read here as we learn of the journey in this account...one who is seeking redemption even if there is no second chance and the other slowly awakening to the fact that her feelings have taken a 180° turn. I do like the pace at which we read the revelations. I do like all the details of their feelings and responses to the other’s words and actions. The maze scene was so poignant. Darcy and Elizabeth meeting when both believe the other cannot possibly be nearby adds to the plucking at one’s heart strings…as in a cello being played. (The author must have some musical talent as she uses this simile.)
Yes, there are some differences herein but I was very happy with the slight change of consequences for one unruly character.
I have to add that this is about the fourth book in this genre which has used letters or notes in one way or another as a variation to Pride and Prejudice that I have read in the last few months. It is always interesting to me to see the various interpretations and with the use of letters; I cannot decide which is my favorite.
There is a short epilogue...and a signature signoff.
I have to admit that there were several times when my throat tightened and my eyes blurred. When you read of the depths of Darcy's despair I defy you not to be affected. We all know of the 5 steps of grief following a traumatic event in one's life: a major illness, a death, (usually). In reading Darcy's letters I was reminded of those. And when he arrives at the "acceptance", at "letting go", my mind and my heart collapsed with a sigh and pondered, "Where to go from here?"
Jane Austen's P&P doesn't give us a look into the minds, at the thoughts and feeling the parties are experiencing. We are a third party looking on the scene, an audience looking upon a stage. Read here as we learn of the journey in this account...one who is seeking redemption even if there is no second chance and the other slowly awakening to the fact that her feelings have taken a 180° turn. I do like the pace at which we read the revelations. I do like all the details of their feelings and responses to the other’s words and actions. The maze scene was so poignant. Darcy and Elizabeth meeting when both believe the other cannot possibly be nearby adds to the plucking at one’s heart strings…as in a cello being played. (The author must have some musical talent as she uses this simile.)
Yes, there are some differences herein but I was very happy with the slight change of consequences for one unruly character.
I have to add that this is about the fourth book in this genre which has used letters or notes in one way or another as a variation to Pride and Prejudice that I have read in the last few months. It is always interesting to me to see the various interpretations and with the use of letters; I cannot decide which is my favorite.
There is a short epilogue...and a signature signoff.
January 17, 2016
4.5 stars! Through Letters Mr. Darcy Bears His Soul
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: The day after Darcy’s first proposal through several months later
MAIN CHARACTERS: Darcy, Elizabeth, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr. Bingley, Jane Bennet, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, Georgiana Darcy, Mr. Wickham
SYNOPSIS: Mr. Darcy has a secret habit of writing Elizabeth Bennet soul-revealing and heart-purging unsent letters. His letters help him sort out his feelings, expel his longing, and cope with his despair and Darcy began writing them the night of the Meryton Assembly. What will happen if Darcy’s secret is found out? How do these letters change the course of Darcy and Elizabeth’s lives?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Thrown Together Again: Within the first hour of departing Rosings the Darcy carriage encounters some trouble and Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam must return to Rosings. I love this twist in the story! Darcy has come to the conclusion that Elizabeth was correct about his selfish propensities and ungentlemanly proposal and is very anxious about encountering her again. I loved seeing the development of Darcy and Elizabeth’s relationship over these extra and unexpected days – the changing perceptions, the new understandings, and the forging of a tenuous amicability. I could feel Darcy’s agony and torment through these passages and I greatly admired Elizabeth’s open-mindness and consideration.
- Eloquence, Thy Name is Darcy: Watch out, Wentworth! You aren’t the only Austen hero that can write a swoon-worthy and heart-wrenching letter! I think it is lovely that Darcy writes letters to Elizabeth, especially after just meeting her! It is adorable how he uses these letters to find the words he wants to say – to explain his actions and vent his frustrations. I love that many of the letters are included in the text (later on in the story) and I thought Darcy, while tongue-tied and foot-in-mouth in person could express himself beautifully on page…
- Elizabeth, Brave and Bold: When the truth becomes clear to Elizabeth and certain revelations are made, Lizzy is determined she should do and say what she must to appease her own conscience. This includes saying something to Mr. Wickham! I greatly enjoyed Lizzy’s actions! She doesn’t act out of character and stays within the bounds of propriety, but at the same time she finds a way to say what she needs to and effect change. I admire you, Elizabeth Bennet!
- “Lizzy is Quite Fond of Mazes”: There are two delightfully beautiful maze scenes in this book. *sigh* What a romantic place to encounter Mr. Darcy! I would say more, but I don’t want to spoil anything! I will admit though, Lizzy isn’t the only one with a fondness for mazes!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Some Small Quibbles: I mostly loved all aspects of this book, but there were a couple things holding me back from giving it five stars. Such as wanting to see more scenes of Darcy and Elizabeth together, they spend a lot of time apart and their scenes together at the end left me wanting more! In addition, I noticed that Darcy was introduced to the Gardiners twice and didn’t remember their first meeting earlier in the book.
CONCLUSION:
Beautifully written words and heart-felt emotions are woven together skillfully in this new Pride and Prejudice variation from KaraLynne Mackrory! I found Yours Forevermore, Darcy to be deeply satisfying with its introspective tone, pleasing development, and happy outcome for all characters involved. Ms. Mackrory has a talent for including charming details and engaging motifs in all her tender romances and I greatly admired all the subtle little touches that made this work interesting, unique, and memorable.
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: The day after Darcy’s first proposal through several months later
MAIN CHARACTERS: Darcy, Elizabeth, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr. Bingley, Jane Bennet, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, Georgiana Darcy, Mr. Wickham
SYNOPSIS: Mr. Darcy has a secret habit of writing Elizabeth Bennet soul-revealing and heart-purging unsent letters. His letters help him sort out his feelings, expel his longing, and cope with his despair and Darcy began writing them the night of the Meryton Assembly. What will happen if Darcy’s secret is found out? How do these letters change the course of Darcy and Elizabeth’s lives?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Thrown Together Again: Within the first hour of departing Rosings the Darcy carriage encounters some trouble and Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam must return to Rosings. I love this twist in the story! Darcy has come to the conclusion that Elizabeth was correct about his selfish propensities and ungentlemanly proposal and is very anxious about encountering her again. I loved seeing the development of Darcy and Elizabeth’s relationship over these extra and unexpected days – the changing perceptions, the new understandings, and the forging of a tenuous amicability. I could feel Darcy’s agony and torment through these passages and I greatly admired Elizabeth’s open-mindness and consideration.
- Eloquence, Thy Name is Darcy: Watch out, Wentworth! You aren’t the only Austen hero that can write a swoon-worthy and heart-wrenching letter! I think it is lovely that Darcy writes letters to Elizabeth, especially after just meeting her! It is adorable how he uses these letters to find the words he wants to say – to explain his actions and vent his frustrations. I love that many of the letters are included in the text (later on in the story) and I thought Darcy, while tongue-tied and foot-in-mouth in person could express himself beautifully on page…
- Elizabeth, Brave and Bold: When the truth becomes clear to Elizabeth and certain revelations are made, Lizzy is determined she should do and say what she must to appease her own conscience. This includes saying something to Mr. Wickham! I greatly enjoyed Lizzy’s actions! She doesn’t act out of character and stays within the bounds of propriety, but at the same time she finds a way to say what she needs to and effect change. I admire you, Elizabeth Bennet!
- “Lizzy is Quite Fond of Mazes”: There are two delightfully beautiful maze scenes in this book. *sigh* What a romantic place to encounter Mr. Darcy! I would say more, but I don’t want to spoil anything! I will admit though, Lizzy isn’t the only one with a fondness for mazes!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Some Small Quibbles: I mostly loved all aspects of this book, but there were a couple things holding me back from giving it five stars. Such as wanting to see more scenes of Darcy and Elizabeth together, they spend a lot of time apart and their scenes together at the end left me wanting more! In addition, I noticed that Darcy was introduced to the Gardiners twice and didn’t remember their first meeting earlier in the book.
CONCLUSION:
Beautifully written words and heart-felt emotions are woven together skillfully in this new Pride and Prejudice variation from KaraLynne Mackrory! I found Yours Forevermore, Darcy to be deeply satisfying with its introspective tone, pleasing development, and happy outcome for all characters involved. Ms. Mackrory has a talent for including charming details and engaging motifs in all her tender romances and I greatly admired all the subtle little touches that made this work interesting, unique, and memorable.
June 19, 2016
Mail unintentionally sent, and received: 5 stars
Letter writing as a cathartic exercise has been done before in JAFF, but not to this degree. From the moment that Darcy laid eyes on Elizabeth Bennet, he wrote down his feelings in the form of letters…12 letters in all. He then stored them in a secret place because he simply did not have the heart to burn them. The emotions in those letters would melt a heart of stone and Elizabeth Bennett did not have a heart of stone. She might be mad at him; however, she had as passionate a spirit as Darcy.
Through an accident, all 12 letters were mailed to Elizabeth. She happened to be at the door when they arrived at Longbourn and was able to hide them before anyone in her family saw them. Elizabeth knew all too well that a single man did not send letters to a single woman who was not his betrothed. It was a huge breach of propriety. However, Elizabeth read them anyway.
Just let me say, those letters were the best part of the book. I loved seeing a side of Darcy that we rarely get to see. I will probably forget all about the rest of the book; however, I will not forget those letters. I was so moved by his emotions and feelings. Elizabeth could hardly contain herself after she read how Mr. Darcy actually felt about her and she was crushed as she remembered her behavior towards him throughout their acquaintance. She suffered so much as to insight a migraine and had to remain in bed for several days.
There are several excellent reviews that will list in detail the plot and story line. They helped me decide that I wanted to read this. I am so glad that I did.
Letter writing as a cathartic exercise has been done before in JAFF, but not to this degree. From the moment that Darcy laid eyes on Elizabeth Bennet, he wrote down his feelings in the form of letters…12 letters in all. He then stored them in a secret place because he simply did not have the heart to burn them. The emotions in those letters would melt a heart of stone and Elizabeth Bennett did not have a heart of stone. She might be mad at him; however, she had as passionate a spirit as Darcy.
Through an accident, all 12 letters were mailed to Elizabeth. She happened to be at the door when they arrived at Longbourn and was able to hide them before anyone in her family saw them. Elizabeth knew all too well that a single man did not send letters to a single woman who was not his betrothed. It was a huge breach of propriety. However, Elizabeth read them anyway.
Just let me say, those letters were the best part of the book. I loved seeing a side of Darcy that we rarely get to see. I will probably forget all about the rest of the book; however, I will not forget those letters. I was so moved by his emotions and feelings. Elizabeth could hardly contain herself after she read how Mr. Darcy actually felt about her and she was crushed as she remembered her behavior towards him throughout their acquaintance. She suffered so much as to insight a migraine and had to remain in bed for several days.
There are several excellent reviews that will list in detail the plot and story line. They helped me decide that I wanted to read this. I am so glad that I did.
February 27, 2020
Worthy Re-read
I have tried to read everything Ms Mackrory has written. I have tried to avoid re-reading her work too soon. It is impossible. Her plots are inventive and more than a little fun (a lot). Her style flows and make it impossible (I seem to be using that word frequently) to avoid a binge read. Honestly, you should take the time to read her books. "Yours Forevermore" contains only one real mystery (to which we all know the answer). How that conundrum is solved is the pleasant treat. Great work for a backlist read! Looking forward to seeing new work!
I have tried to read everything Ms Mackrory has written. I have tried to avoid re-reading her work too soon. It is impossible. Her plots are inventive and more than a little fun (a lot). Her style flows and make it impossible (I seem to be using that word frequently) to avoid a binge read. Honestly, you should take the time to read her books. "Yours Forevermore" contains only one real mystery (to which we all know the answer). How that conundrum is solved is the pleasant treat. Great work for a backlist read! Looking forward to seeing new work!
January 26, 2023
Great book
To take a quote, out of context from the book, I would describe the story as “It is so very romantic.”
Perhaps the most romantic of the P&P variations I’ve read.
Nuff said.
To take a quote, out of context from the book, I would describe the story as “It is so very romantic.”
Perhaps the most romantic of the P&P variations I’ve read.
Nuff said.
August 15, 2021
Delightfully Engaging
Reviewed in Canada on January 16, 2019
I loved this well written story. I only regret it wasn’t longer so that all of the letters could have been included. This book is definitely worth your time.
August 14, 2021.- Audiobook
Very good narration by Brady Smith. I believe this is the first time I’ve listened to him. His voice for females is good, but I did find Elizabeth a bit coy sounding in her presentation.
Reviewed in Canada on January 16, 2019
I loved this well written story. I only regret it wasn’t longer so that all of the letters could have been included. This book is definitely worth your time.
August 14, 2021.- Audiobook
Very good narration by Brady Smith. I believe this is the first time I’ve listened to him. His voice for females is good, but I did find Elizabeth a bit coy sounding in her presentation.
October 17, 2016
This book lingered on my Kindle as it focuses on Darcy and how he felt during the period he was separated from Miss Elizabeth Bennet from November to April. And really book, it's not you it's me. But I really don't care how Darcy dealt with his repressed feelings for Elizabeth. In this case he wrote her letter, never meant to send. Then he hides them, first in his portable writing desk - there's a French word for it and a hollow book his father used to hide things in his study.
When they are at Rosings his plan to leave after the proposal is thwarted by a carriage accident and machinations of Lady Catherine; so he and Lizzy interact in awkward ways. When another disaster befalls them Lizzy & Maria Lucas end up riding from Bromley to London with Darcy & Col. Fitzwilliam to London.
Afterwards Darcy confesses his heartbreak first to Col. Fitzwilliam and then to Georgiana. So you reader get to hear it AGAIN. He also confesses his role in separated Bingley and Jane to Bingley as well as ratting out Bingley's sisters. Then he sets out upon a self improvement course to correct all the objection Elizabeth had toward him. And during this bit all I could think was "We Need a Montage" (Team America World Police). But Darcy perseveres and Bingley woos Jane and one day .... all of Mr. Darcy's letters are delivered to Lizzy because of a plot device that is worthy of I Love Lucy. But Lizzy reads the letters and realizes that she is very much in love with Mr. Darcy. And then off to Derbyshire she and her aunt and uncle shall venture. Their visit there is nicer and less stressful than JA's version and it isn't until they all return to Longbourn that they learn of Lydia's elopement. But it is resolved quickly and they Sisters can marry they men they love in no time. WEEEE
So my complaint; in this the book spends too much time thinking, pondering, mulling over, reflecting and repeating. Then the last 25% is like a manic spin through P&P.
When they are at Rosings his plan to leave after the proposal is thwarted by a carriage accident and machinations of Lady Catherine; so he and Lizzy interact in awkward ways. When another disaster befalls them Lizzy & Maria Lucas end up riding from Bromley to London with Darcy & Col. Fitzwilliam to London.
Afterwards Darcy confesses his heartbreak first to Col. Fitzwilliam and then to Georgiana. So you reader get to hear it AGAIN. He also confesses his role in separated Bingley and Jane to Bingley as well as ratting out Bingley's sisters. Then he sets out upon a self improvement course to correct all the objection Elizabeth had toward him. And during this bit all I could think was "We Need a Montage" (Team America World Police). But Darcy perseveres and Bingley woos Jane and one day .... all of Mr. Darcy's letters are delivered to Lizzy because of a plot device that is worthy of I Love Lucy. But Lizzy reads the letters and realizes that she is very much in love with Mr. Darcy. And then off to Derbyshire she and her aunt and uncle shall venture. Their visit there is nicer and less stressful than JA's version and it isn't until they all return to Longbourn that they learn of Lydia's elopement. But it is resolved quickly and they Sisters can marry they men they love in no time. WEEEE
So my complaint; in this the book spends too much time thinking, pondering, mulling over, reflecting and repeating. Then the last 25% is like a manic spin through P&P.
June 19, 2016
I SO wanted to love this book, as I have loved all of this author's other contributions to JAFF. Her writing style flows beautifully here, as always, and the basic plotline, as far as I am aware, is unique. Unfortunately, (I will quote Georgiana's words here) the first half in particular is filled with "agonizing introspection."
I get it. Darcy's in pain over his love for Elizabeth and his inability to have her, and he write letters to her to try to purge those feelings without ever intending to send them. Descriptions of his emotions (as well as hers) go on and on and on to the point where I was tired of both of them mucking around and moping. I was almost tempted to try skipping ahead to find something actually happening. That's not to say that NOTHING happens, but actual occurrences in the first half of the book are at a snail's pace and invariably are accompanied by MORE details of the awkwardness and angst and longing that the participants experience.
Considering how well written all this angst is, I'm sure it would have felt like choosing between much-loved children to delete any of it, but I felt it still should have been pared down - a LOT. The repeat of the full Prologue when events in the story catch up to it is particularly unnecessary.
Somewhere near the middle of this rather long book, I thought it finally found its stride. Darcy finally starts taking action to become a better man. It's a truth rarely acknowledged in literature that it's hard to have a successful marriage when you're not at peace with yourself, and Darcy stops focusing on himself and his pain and instead looks outward to become a more complete human being on his own. Elizabeth has come to some conclusions of her own regarding him. (I am not one to give out spoilers.) The encounter with Elizabeth at Pemberley is probably the most satisfying scene in the book. (Well, that and her put-down of Wickham back in Meryton, which was damn fine!).
After all the dragged-out action in the early part of the book, I celebrated the hasty conclusion regarding Lydia's escapade. I loved that her escape from Brighton took an unusual twist. There were several pages of feeling "Oh, no - not MORE angst now that Darcy and Elizabeth finally got together!!" and then, just as quickly, things were resolved. Bless you, Ms. Mackrory, for sparing your readers when it would have been easy to extend that particular storyline.
Darcy's letters themselves are beautiful and romantic, and most will probably make you feel all warm and melty. Those who love to dig deeply and delve into every emotional nuance of these beloved characters will no doubt have a different reaction to much of the rest of the book than I did.
I get it. Darcy's in pain over his love for Elizabeth and his inability to have her, and he write letters to her to try to purge those feelings without ever intending to send them. Descriptions of his emotions (as well as hers) go on and on and on to the point where I was tired of both of them mucking around and moping. I was almost tempted to try skipping ahead to find something actually happening. That's not to say that NOTHING happens, but actual occurrences in the first half of the book are at a snail's pace and invariably are accompanied by MORE details of the awkwardness and angst and longing that the participants experience.
Considering how well written all this angst is, I'm sure it would have felt like choosing between much-loved children to delete any of it, but I felt it still should have been pared down - a LOT. The repeat of the full Prologue when events in the story catch up to it is particularly unnecessary.
Somewhere near the middle of this rather long book, I thought it finally found its stride. Darcy finally starts taking action to become a better man. It's a truth rarely acknowledged in literature that it's hard to have a successful marriage when you're not at peace with yourself, and Darcy stops focusing on himself and his pain and instead looks outward to become a more complete human being on his own. Elizabeth has come to some conclusions of her own regarding him. (I am not one to give out spoilers.) The encounter with Elizabeth at Pemberley is probably the most satisfying scene in the book. (Well, that and her put-down of Wickham back in Meryton, which was damn fine!).
After all the dragged-out action in the early part of the book, I celebrated the hasty conclusion regarding Lydia's escapade. I loved that her escape from Brighton took an unusual twist. There were several pages of feeling "Oh, no - not MORE angst now that Darcy and Elizabeth finally got together!!" and then, just as quickly, things were resolved. Bless you, Ms. Mackrory, for sparing your readers when it would have been easy to extend that particular storyline.
Darcy's letters themselves are beautiful and romantic, and most will probably make you feel all warm and melty. Those who love to dig deeply and delve into every emotional nuance of these beloved characters will no doubt have a different reaction to much of the rest of the book than I did.
November 18, 2015
I loved loved loved this variation and have re-read it many times already. Such exquisite emotion, such perfect language and such an engaging plot. Darcy’s letters were so poignant, so full of feeling! ‘Release me from your hold!’ Oh my!! I loved the emotion they portrayed, along with Darcy’s progression from rather selfish infatuation to deep abiding love. I thought the way they were delivered to Elizabeth was masterfully done, such a perfect way to avoid detection and allow Elizabeth to read them without her hand being forced into marrying him before she was ready to do so – before she came to see that marrying Darcy was the deepest wish of her heart. I loved the meeting at Pemberley and how swiftly they reached their understanding from then on, and how Lydia’s elopement, instead of throwing too large a spanner in the works, actually brought her a much better fate than we would have expected. I loved Mr Bennet in this (especially the fraught but also hilarious scene between him and Elizabeth, when she was dying to escape upstairs and read her letters). I loved the maze scenes (one unbelievably sweet and poignant, and the other positively swoon-worthy!). I loved Anne, so astute and clever, and Georgiana, and Jane & Bingley – and well, everyone, but most of all Elizabeth and Darcy and this alternate path to their HEA. Brilliantly done, a lovely story!
December 30, 2015
This review was first published on Babblings of a Bookworm: http://babblingsofabookworm.blogspot....
Having thoroughly enjoyed KaraLynne Mackrory’s last couple of books (‘Haunting Mr Darcy’ and ‘Bluebells in the Mourning’) I was all anticipation for her latest ‘Pride & Prejudice’ variation, ‘Yours Forevermore, Darcy’. The premise of this book is that Mr Darcy has taken to writing letters to Elizabeth Bennet, to clear his mind and get things off his chest. He began the day after the Assembly in Meryton, and continued for some months. Obviously, he writes them with the intention that not a single soul will ever read them. But what if somebody did?
The book starts about two months after Darcy leaves Hunsford but very soon flashes back, so I felt that it could have started there, because the story really begins in the days immediately after the ill-fated proposal. Darcy is still angry and unwilling to acknowledge that Elizabeth made any fair points in her refusal of his marriage proposal. He is relieved to be leaving, and, though she believes he has told the truth in his letter to her (the same one she gets in canon) she is relieved that he is going to relieve an uncomfortable situation:
‘How exceedingly glad was she that the remaining time in Kent would be free of a certain gentleman. Considering the variety of emotions with which she was burdened-not to mention the discord of their recent meeting-if she never saw Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy again, it would be too soon.’
But unbeknownst to either of them, Darcy’s time in Kent is going to be extended, and they are forced into spending some more time with each other, when both of them would rather be far away, licking their wounds. The reader is given insight into both Elizabeth and Darcy’s thoughts, interpretations and particularly their misinterpretations of the other’s behaviour here.
‘One moment, she despised the man for his arrogance and conceit. In the next, she pitied him for his disappointment at her hands. And still, she also knew remorse. Her behaviour towards him, though not constituting any real regret for her decision, made her feel a shrew. She had never remembered losing her temper so thoroughly in her life.’
Once both of them are safely out of Kent Darcy concentrates on being a better man. Not with the view of improving Elizabeth’s opinion of him, but because he has acknowledged the justice of some of what she said to him and wants to improve himself. Elizabeth finds, as in canon, that time softens her view of Mr Darcy, and here Elizabeth has had more chance to realise that Darcy’s character is not how she’d originally interpreted it.
I thought this was a very romantic tale - those letters, sigh! Having a glimpse into Darcy’s innermost thoughts made for some very swoonworthy moments, and some pretty amusing ones too, considering that he’s not expecting the letters to ever be read. I also enjoyed seeing the other side of things with Elizabeth’s point of view. I was a little concerned that Darcy might turn out to be a little too much in touch with his feelings, as I feel that part of the attraction of historical romances are the strong feelings being kept repressed, but here they are generally kept in check except in the private outlet of those letters.
An unexpected pleasure here was Anne de Bourgh and her surprising skills in dissembling. I always enjoy it when Anne is given a bit of character, and my only disappointment with it was that I would have liked to have seen more of her!
If you have read this author’s previous books you will know that Lydia has had very different outcomes in each of them so it was in the back of my mind as I was reading. I was curious to see how Lydia fared and though I wasn’t surprised by the turn of events I didn’t really see them coming either.
I had an e-ARC of the book to read rather than the final copy so though I noticed some issues with the homonyms this may well have been sorted out for the final version. The spelling in the book is generally American English, but the usage of the language didn’t particularly stand out to me as being US English aside from one chapter which had a lot of instances of the verb ‘to write’ which is used a little differently in the UK to the US. Again, this may be changed in the final version, and if not, might still not be very noticeable to readers outside the UK.
I’d describe this as a low-angst romance, however, this doesn’t mean that it’s an entirely straightforward journey, as where would be the fun in that?! There is plenty of misinterpretation and soul-searching for our principal characters. There is a bit of a reliance on coincidence which I won’t argue with too much, as some of the coincidences mirror those in ‘Pride & Prejudice’, though there are additional ones.
As regards content, there are no sex scenes whatsoever, and some very mild historical swearing (‘Blast!’) so I think most readers would be pretty safe picking this book up. I found this book a very enjoyable, comfortable read, and extremely romantic. It’s the type of book I wanted to keep reading until I’d reached the end of the last page and I’d recommend it. I’d rate this book as a 4½ star read.
*I received an e-ARC of this book for my honest review as part of the 'Yours Forevermore, Darcy' blog tour
Having thoroughly enjoyed KaraLynne Mackrory’s last couple of books (‘Haunting Mr Darcy’ and ‘Bluebells in the Mourning’) I was all anticipation for her latest ‘Pride & Prejudice’ variation, ‘Yours Forevermore, Darcy’. The premise of this book is that Mr Darcy has taken to writing letters to Elizabeth Bennet, to clear his mind and get things off his chest. He began the day after the Assembly in Meryton, and continued for some months. Obviously, he writes them with the intention that not a single soul will ever read them. But what if somebody did?
The book starts about two months after Darcy leaves Hunsford but very soon flashes back, so I felt that it could have started there, because the story really begins in the days immediately after the ill-fated proposal. Darcy is still angry and unwilling to acknowledge that Elizabeth made any fair points in her refusal of his marriage proposal. He is relieved to be leaving, and, though she believes he has told the truth in his letter to her (the same one she gets in canon) she is relieved that he is going to relieve an uncomfortable situation:
‘How exceedingly glad was she that the remaining time in Kent would be free of a certain gentleman. Considering the variety of emotions with which she was burdened-not to mention the discord of their recent meeting-if she never saw Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy again, it would be too soon.’
But unbeknownst to either of them, Darcy’s time in Kent is going to be extended, and they are forced into spending some more time with each other, when both of them would rather be far away, licking their wounds. The reader is given insight into both Elizabeth and Darcy’s thoughts, interpretations and particularly their misinterpretations of the other’s behaviour here.
‘One moment, she despised the man for his arrogance and conceit. In the next, she pitied him for his disappointment at her hands. And still, she also knew remorse. Her behaviour towards him, though not constituting any real regret for her decision, made her feel a shrew. She had never remembered losing her temper so thoroughly in her life.’
Once both of them are safely out of Kent Darcy concentrates on being a better man. Not with the view of improving Elizabeth’s opinion of him, but because he has acknowledged the justice of some of what she said to him and wants to improve himself. Elizabeth finds, as in canon, that time softens her view of Mr Darcy, and here Elizabeth has had more chance to realise that Darcy’s character is not how she’d originally interpreted it.
I thought this was a very romantic tale - those letters, sigh! Having a glimpse into Darcy’s innermost thoughts made for some very swoonworthy moments, and some pretty amusing ones too, considering that he’s not expecting the letters to ever be read. I also enjoyed seeing the other side of things with Elizabeth’s point of view. I was a little concerned that Darcy might turn out to be a little too much in touch with his feelings, as I feel that part of the attraction of historical romances are the strong feelings being kept repressed, but here they are generally kept in check except in the private outlet of those letters.
An unexpected pleasure here was Anne de Bourgh and her surprising skills in dissembling. I always enjoy it when Anne is given a bit of character, and my only disappointment with it was that I would have liked to have seen more of her!
If you have read this author’s previous books you will know that Lydia has had very different outcomes in each of them so it was in the back of my mind as I was reading. I was curious to see how Lydia fared and though I wasn’t surprised by the turn of events I didn’t really see them coming either.
I had an e-ARC of the book to read rather than the final copy so though I noticed some issues with the homonyms this may well have been sorted out for the final version. The spelling in the book is generally American English, but the usage of the language didn’t particularly stand out to me as being US English aside from one chapter which had a lot of instances of the verb ‘to write’ which is used a little differently in the UK to the US. Again, this may be changed in the final version, and if not, might still not be very noticeable to readers outside the UK.
I’d describe this as a low-angst romance, however, this doesn’t mean that it’s an entirely straightforward journey, as where would be the fun in that?! There is plenty of misinterpretation and soul-searching for our principal characters. There is a bit of a reliance on coincidence which I won’t argue with too much, as some of the coincidences mirror those in ‘Pride & Prejudice’, though there are additional ones.
As regards content, there are no sex scenes whatsoever, and some very mild historical swearing (‘Blast!’) so I think most readers would be pretty safe picking this book up. I found this book a very enjoyable, comfortable read, and extremely romantic. It’s the type of book I wanted to keep reading until I’d reached the end of the last page and I’d recommend it. I’d rate this book as a 4½ star read.
*I received an e-ARC of this book for my honest review as part of the 'Yours Forevermore, Darcy' blog tour
October 3, 2017
It was a well written novel but I couldn't give it 5 stars because I thought it lagged in the beginning with a story plot and mostly a review of Jane Austen's Story.
I started getting interested in the plot when Elizabeth realized she was in love with Darcy and then she got the twelve letters. That showed his character of being able to express himself in the written word. The coming together at Pemberley brought the story to a great conclusion that they both loved each other.
I loved the idea of what the author tried to portray and many like her idea but I thought it was good in certain ways. I also thought once they were married, the idea of Darcy still writing to Elizabeth was one of the ideal ways to keep the spark of love burning.
I also thought the idea of the author using Elizabeth to also write twelve letters to Darcy made the plot excellent.
I started getting interested in the plot when Elizabeth realized she was in love with Darcy and then she got the twelve letters. That showed his character of being able to express himself in the written word. The coming together at Pemberley brought the story to a great conclusion that they both loved each other.
I loved the idea of what the author tried to portray and many like her idea but I thought it was good in certain ways. I also thought once they were married, the idea of Darcy still writing to Elizabeth was one of the ideal ways to keep the spark of love burning.
I also thought the idea of the author using Elizabeth to also write twelve letters to Darcy made the plot excellent.
January 16, 2016
Forever a romantic
Awesome wonderful P&P alternative.
In this alternative you really see Darcy's feelings through personnel letters he writes to Elizabeth. He does this, not to ever send these letters but as a catharsis to try to overcome his love. Does it work? Well we see the journey and we also see some crazy situations that throw Elizabeth and Darcy together after the failed proposal. Was a wonderful journey with just enough angst to make it all worth while.
A definite must read.
Awesome wonderful P&P alternative.
In this alternative you really see Darcy's feelings through personnel letters he writes to Elizabeth. He does this, not to ever send these letters but as a catharsis to try to overcome his love. Does it work? Well we see the journey and we also see some crazy situations that throw Elizabeth and Darcy together after the failed proposal. Was a wonderful journey with just enough angst to make it all worth while.
A definite must read.
February 20, 2021
Loved it as others will. She is a wonderful writer. Best bio in JAFF as well. :)
Reread: Still a great one though not my fave by this author. Charming as usual!
Reread: Still great!
Reread: Still a great one though not my fave by this author. Charming as usual!
Reread: Still great!
November 2, 2015
A sweet reversal of emotions through letters
KaraLynne Mackrory has done it again with another splendid P&P variation. In Yours Forevermore, Darcy, we see how things might have been different for ODC if they had more time in company together after the failed proposal, and if Mr Darcy wrote out his thoughts as in letters to Elizabeth (like diary entries though addressed to Elizabeth). Through spending more time in Mr Darcy's presence with his kind attentions and assistance, though he was more reserved, Elizabeth starts to have more of a foundation for who he really is.
But what were to happen if said 'letters' that Mr Darcy wrote were posted to Elizabeth? Would they alter Elizabeth's thoughts of Mr Darcy? For the better or worse?
I loved Mr Darcy in this variation, the range of emotions he felt, the depth of emotions he felt. I loved seeing the trust he had in talking to his cousins Anne and Col Fitzwilliam, and finally in Georgiana. I adored seeing the support that these three provided him it was great to finally see that for once he had lots of support, that he could speak to others and that they would help shoulder the emotional turmoil.
Elizabeth too was a breath of fresh air in this novel. She did not have the airs that she normally carries, the airs of her intelligence and superiority in distinguishing characters of others. I found that this Elizabeth thought through things more, such as her reactions to things and conversations, before judging too much more than she did prior to her refusal.
This novel was well written, captivating, and low-angst. I would highly recommend this to all JAFFers.
KaraLynne Mackrory has done it again with another splendid P&P variation. In Yours Forevermore, Darcy, we see how things might have been different for ODC if they had more time in company together after the failed proposal, and if Mr Darcy wrote out his thoughts as in letters to Elizabeth (like diary entries though addressed to Elizabeth). Through spending more time in Mr Darcy's presence with his kind attentions and assistance, though he was more reserved, Elizabeth starts to have more of a foundation for who he really is.
But what were to happen if said 'letters' that Mr Darcy wrote were posted to Elizabeth? Would they alter Elizabeth's thoughts of Mr Darcy? For the better or worse?
I loved Mr Darcy in this variation, the range of emotions he felt, the depth of emotions he felt. I loved seeing the trust he had in talking to his cousins Anne and Col Fitzwilliam, and finally in Georgiana. I adored seeing the support that these three provided him it was great to finally see that for once he had lots of support, that he could speak to others and that they would help shoulder the emotional turmoil.
Elizabeth too was a breath of fresh air in this novel. She did not have the airs that she normally carries, the airs of her intelligence and superiority in distinguishing characters of others. I found that this Elizabeth thought through things more, such as her reactions to things and conversations, before judging too much more than she did prior to her refusal.
This novel was well written, captivating, and low-angst. I would highly recommend this to all JAFFers.
June 12, 2018
"I am trying my best to forget you." (quote from the book)
Beautiful prose and an exquisite symphony of love and letters.
The premise of this wonderful book was based on letters Mr. Darcy wrote to Elizabeth Bennet, but are never meant to be sent, was unique and extremely moving. I don't think I could come up with enough fabulous adjectives to do this book justice.
"Yet now those thoughts were darker, blanketed with soot from the burn of her words as he now had the distinction of knowing he could not have her should he choose it." (quote from the book)
We get to see from both Darcy and Elizabeth's point of view how they each dealt with their feelings about each other after the Hunsford proposal and his letter to her. Darcy is a tortured soul and Elizabeth's feelings are a jumble. To help him deal with his pain he writes letters to her and secrets them away in the hidden compartment of his traveling writing desk or the old tome in his study that is hollowed out. My heart just ached for both of them, but especially for Mr. Darcy. The depths of his love for Elizabeth has you gasping for breath. No hero can compare to Jane Austen's Mr. Darcy and Ms. Mackrory has taken us into his psyche.
Yes, there is much that goes on around this tale, but for me the journey between Darcy and Elizabeth was heart-wrenching, poignant and completely swoon-worthy. I sincerely recommend this as one of those books that you hear people say 'you must read'...truly you do.
September 26, 2015
What a delightful story!! KaraLynne certainly doesn't disappoint. I loved this vulnerable Darcy and really enjoyed the letters he wrote to quiet his growing attraction to Elizabeth-one who could never be his....then the dawning realisation that, yes,marriage could be possible and then the heartbreak he suffered at her refusal. I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to lovers of P& P.
May 15, 2021
Since I'm trying hard to get better at reviewing (but shamefully will never reach the level of my favorite reviewers here on GR,) I now have to confess that I've lost count of how many times I've reread or re-listened to this story. I read it the first time when I bought it in 2017. I try to space my rereads apart, though. That ensures I will have forgotten enough details that make the rereading compelling since I cannot remember how it ends.
But oh boy, there are so many deliciously lovely things in this story to rediscover. Some of my favorite scenes of any JAFF have been written by KaraLynne, God bless her.
I happen to like epilogues. This is just me, because I don't understand why others dislike them so much. Unless it's an epilogue that is bad, and this one is not!
I love Mackrory's writing. I read 'Haunting Mr. Darcy' at least once a year.
I can't recommend this highly enough!
I'm so glad that Mackrory's books were taken under the wings of Quills & Quartos reissuing them last year. Her books deserve a look from every new to JAFF reader since her books were originally released. There's such wealth here. It would be so easy for new JAFF readers to read only new works since there are so many.
Because this review is also for the audio version, I will also give the narration 5*. Brady Smith's gorgeously deep voice is so wonderful whether he is acting Darcy or Col. F. or even Mr. Bennet. His female characters shine too.
But oh boy, there are so many deliciously lovely things in this story to rediscover. Some of my favorite scenes of any JAFF have been written by KaraLynne, God bless her.
I happen to like epilogues. This is just me, because I don't understand why others dislike them so much. Unless it's an epilogue that is bad, and this one is not!
I love Mackrory's writing. I read 'Haunting Mr. Darcy' at least once a year.
I can't recommend this highly enough!
I'm so glad that Mackrory's books were taken under the wings of Quills & Quartos reissuing them last year. Her books deserve a look from every new to JAFF reader since her books were originally released. There's such wealth here. It would be so easy for new JAFF readers to read only new works since there are so many.
Because this review is also for the audio version, I will also give the narration 5*. Brady Smith's gorgeously deep voice is so wonderful whether he is acting Darcy or Col. F. or even Mr. Bennet. His female characters shine too.
Read
June 15, 2016https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Can you imagine anything more romantic than Darcy writing letters to Elizabeth and signing them as “Yours Forevermore, Darcy”?
This was the idea behind Karalynne Mackrory’s latest book. The intensity of Darcy’s feelings for Elizabeth led him to write her letters as a mean to cope with the feelings assaulting his heart and mind.
But what if she were to receive them? Would she change her mind towards him?
The plot starts after the Hunsford proposal, heartbroken Darcy leaves with Col. Fitzwilliam as it was planned, but unfortunate circumstances bring them back to Rosings almost immediately after they left. Mr. Darcy is then forced to be in Elizabeth’s present more often than he would wish at the time, but this will only allow her to see the man he truly is.
The letters are not actually seen until the middle of the book and the story will continue at a slow pace in a very similar way to the original.
I would have preferred to have more Darcy and Elizabeth scenes as we had in “Haunting Mr Darcy”. Karalynne Mackrory got us used to such wonderful scenes between them that I felt that in “Yours Forevermore, Darcy” there are too many scenes that are not between my tow favourite characters. But that also gives us the opportunity to read some interesting scenes of role reversal such as Jane telling Mr. Bingley that Lizzy has feelings for Mr. Darcy. Another interesting aspect of the book was the way Elizabeth exposed Whickam: it was very interesting, witty and Lizzy like.
The humorous parts of the book were also interesting to read, the Darcy/Richard carriage scene is hilarious and really made me laugh but what I really enjoyed in this book was the fact that Darcy is not the only one writing letters. I don’t want to spoil anything for those who have not read the book, but Elizabeth also writes letters, and the connection and intimacy that is established through these letters is just delicious.
Can you imagine anything more romantic than Darcy writing letters to Elizabeth and signing them as “Yours Forevermore, Darcy”?
This was the idea behind Karalynne Mackrory’s latest book. The intensity of Darcy’s feelings for Elizabeth led him to write her letters as a mean to cope with the feelings assaulting his heart and mind.
But what if she were to receive them? Would she change her mind towards him?
The plot starts after the Hunsford proposal, heartbroken Darcy leaves with Col. Fitzwilliam as it was planned, but unfortunate circumstances bring them back to Rosings almost immediately after they left. Mr. Darcy is then forced to be in Elizabeth’s present more often than he would wish at the time, but this will only allow her to see the man he truly is.
The letters are not actually seen until the middle of the book and the story will continue at a slow pace in a very similar way to the original.
I would have preferred to have more Darcy and Elizabeth scenes as we had in “Haunting Mr Darcy”. Karalynne Mackrory got us used to such wonderful scenes between them that I felt that in “Yours Forevermore, Darcy” there are too many scenes that are not between my tow favourite characters. But that also gives us the opportunity to read some interesting scenes of role reversal such as Jane telling Mr. Bingley that Lizzy has feelings for Mr. Darcy. Another interesting aspect of the book was the way Elizabeth exposed Whickam: it was very interesting, witty and Lizzy like.
The humorous parts of the book were also interesting to read, the Darcy/Richard carriage scene is hilarious and really made me laugh but what I really enjoyed in this book was the fact that Darcy is not the only one writing letters. I don’t want to spoil anything for those who have not read the book, but Elizabeth also writes letters, and the connection and intimacy that is established through these letters is just delicious.
March 19, 2016
YOURS FOREVERMORE, DARCY by KARALYNNE MACKRORY
A word of warning, you will need a box of tissues to hand at certain points whilst reading this book and it's also not for those who don't like a lot of angst.
This story starts just after Darcy's ill-fated proposal at Hunsford. We find out very early on that the letter he gives Elizabeth afterwards is not the first he's written to her. But, the others have never been sent. Darcy has been using the writing process to try to deal with his feelings for Elizabeth from the very morning after the Meryton Assembly.
The story diverges from canon shortly after the proposal, as Darcy and the Colonel are prevented, by various incidents, from leaving Rosings at the usual time. This ensures that he and Elizabeth continue to meet in Kent. He becomes almost a victim to his feelings for her whilst he tries not to impose them on her and we get a lot of his POV during this part of the book.
I won't say how the letters eventually end up in Elizabeth's hands, but you just know they have to, don't you? It's at this point that we get to find out exactly what he wrote to her. This is where I found the need for the paper hankies!
I won't say any more about the plot except for that there is more from canon in this book, watch out for the mazes and evidence of a swim in a lake.
I originally gave this book four stars but on writing this review, I've reconsidered and upgraded it to five. As with all of Ms. Mackrory's books, it's a lovely read, with lots of tender moments but nothing explicit so I can recommend it for all audiences, except the angst-phobic!
Disclaimer, I received a copy of this book from the author with the hope that I produce an honest review afterwards.
A word of warning, you will need a box of tissues to hand at certain points whilst reading this book and it's also not for those who don't like a lot of angst.
This story starts just after Darcy's ill-fated proposal at Hunsford. We find out very early on that the letter he gives Elizabeth afterwards is not the first he's written to her. But, the others have never been sent. Darcy has been using the writing process to try to deal with his feelings for Elizabeth from the very morning after the Meryton Assembly.
The story diverges from canon shortly after the proposal, as Darcy and the Colonel are prevented, by various incidents, from leaving Rosings at the usual time. This ensures that he and Elizabeth continue to meet in Kent. He becomes almost a victim to his feelings for her whilst he tries not to impose them on her and we get a lot of his POV during this part of the book.
I won't say how the letters eventually end up in Elizabeth's hands, but you just know they have to, don't you? It's at this point that we get to find out exactly what he wrote to her. This is where I found the need for the paper hankies!
I won't say any more about the plot except for that there is more from canon in this book, watch out for the mazes and evidence of a swim in a lake.
I originally gave this book four stars but on writing this review, I've reconsidered and upgraded it to five. As with all of Ms. Mackrory's books, it's a lovely read, with lots of tender moments but nothing explicit so I can recommend it for all audiences, except the angst-phobic!
Disclaimer, I received a copy of this book from the author with the hope that I produce an honest review afterwards.
January 23, 2016
One of the best
After reading a couple of hundred P&P sequels, prequels and variations, just this week I had the thought that maybe I had read enough and the authors had exhausted all the possibilities. Luckily for me KaraLynne Mackrory has proven me wrong. Yours Forevermore, Darcy grabbed me from the start and gave me a wonderful day and a half of romance with my favorite couple.
I swiftly read through the familiar tale seeing it again from a fresh perspective. Of course you can tell from the very beginning that at some point a letter will arrive accidentally, but it happens in such a beautiful and happy way as to make it feel feasible.
I love a humble and romantic Darcy with just a slight bit of awkwardness, and Mackrory certainly carried it off well. Elizabeth was her usual spunky, impertinent self.
A very enjoyable read that I recommend to all JAFF lovers. Keep a hanky handy.
After reading a couple of hundred P&P sequels, prequels and variations, just this week I had the thought that maybe I had read enough and the authors had exhausted all the possibilities. Luckily for me KaraLynne Mackrory has proven me wrong. Yours Forevermore, Darcy grabbed me from the start and gave me a wonderful day and a half of romance with my favorite couple.
I swiftly read through the familiar tale seeing it again from a fresh perspective. Of course you can tell from the very beginning that at some point a letter will arrive accidentally, but it happens in such a beautiful and happy way as to make it feel feasible.
I love a humble and romantic Darcy with just a slight bit of awkwardness, and Mackrory certainly carried it off well. Elizabeth was her usual spunky, impertinent self.
A very enjoyable read that I recommend to all JAFF lovers. Keep a hanky handy.
June 10, 2021
Evocative imagery, swoon worthy passages, and not a dull moment. You will be whisked into the story, with an ardent Darcy and a beguiling Lizzy.
Synopsis:
We know 'Pride and Prejudice' ends with Darcy thanking Lizzy for her reproof
There we witnessed Lizzy reap the harvest from the seeds of rebuke she sowed in Darcy, but here you'll be privy to the seedling’s struggle and growth in becoming the forgiven reformed gentlemen we know and love.
There's an added bonus component in this yarn; Darcy has adopted the practice of writing and addressing, though never posting, letters to Lizzy that span from their meeting as a therapeutic balm to his unrequited love
We open with Darcy smarting from Lizzy's rejection and making plans to flee ASAP.
However the best laid plans of mice and men oft go astray, and when Darcy's carriage breaks down but a few miles from Rosings they are forced once more unto the breach and ask to borrow one of Lady C's.
Not so fast! Lady C's loyal and sassy butler Gibbons is a strategist! Thanks to his machinations to keep Darcy near for more time to ensnare him to 'the parson's mouse trap' w/Anne, the carriages are conveniently unavailable for 4 days of maintenance and by extension Darcy & Col. Fitz.
Ouu how I WISHED Gibbons had more page time, because let me tell you, I have scarcely been more enchanted by a minor character! He’s a delicious, saucy bitch, you can just tell!
This is a fresh source of misery to Darcy, he is reeling from the disappointment;
Lizzy is smarting too from the proposal; she is absorbing his letter and realizing her lapse in judgement
Thus circumstance conspires and ODC are thrown back together much sooner! Darcy stumbles upon a sleeping Lizzy in the Rosings hedge maze and what a sweet and awkward treat it is!
They have this long pleasant interaction, but Darcy tests his luck a bit too soon after a bee bite;
They are thrown in a few instances more after this but mainly we see Darcy institute changes and exert himself in the hopes he may be worthy of Lizzy should happenstance throw them back together
Lizzy also has her own fledgling tendre we witness quicken and stir in Hunsford and grow until Pemberley.
It doesn't hurt that she gets an extra helpful shove from the 12 billet-doux she accidentally is sent.
What Stood Out:
♡ Anne
♡ The writing: utterly evocative and romantic
♡ The descriptors for the turn of both Darcy in his understanding as he takes his beloved's reprimands to heart, and for Lizzy in gradual growth of affections.
♡ Fast paced; skips to the interesting scenes in economical manner, keeps you enthralled
♡ Darcy soundly besotted,
♡ THE LETTERS! They are revealed more in full towards the end and they are just.. *sigh*
What Peeved Me:
➳ Darcy and the Colonel reading and discussing another Austen work; it is too Meta Reference-y & jerked me out of the story, not to mention totally irrelevant to plot.
➳ The epilogue- but I've never had the stomach for them.
Verdict:
Adorable! That was the descriptor flashing at the forefront of my mind perpetually as I gushed and awed at the interactions between the ardent Darcy, and the bemused but smarting Lizzy.
The letters fit so well with something Darcy might do that I am tempted to adopt it into my personal P&P head canon… deliberating... deliberating... Approved!
Henceforth it will be my universally acknowledge truth that Mr Darcy wrote Lizzy unsent billet-doux’s during their tumultuous acquaintance in a futile attempt to curtail his ardent love, and that he eventually bestowed unto her!
I’ve read all of KaraLynne Mackrory work and she always manages the cutest and sweetest ODC interactions but this, boy oh boy, this takes the cake as my favorite of hers!
How odd it is that the one of hers I left to simmer in my to-read would be my favorite? Goes to show always scoop till the Bottom of the barrel is dry!
Take heart reader; there is always more excellent JAFF just around the corner. So go to your to-read, yes now! Give consequence to one you’ve been slighting! You never know…
Synopsis:
We know 'Pride and Prejudice' ends with Darcy thanking Lizzy for her reproof
“Such I was, from eight to eight and twenty; and such I might still have been but for you, dearest, loveliest Elizabeth! What do I not owe you! You taught me a lesson, hard indeed at first, but most advantageous. By you, I was properly humbled.”
There we witnessed Lizzy reap the harvest from the seeds of rebuke she sowed in Darcy, but here you'll be privy to the seedling’s struggle and growth in becoming the forgiven reformed gentlemen we know and love.
There's an added bonus component in this yarn; Darcy has adopted the practice of writing and addressing, though never posting, letters to Lizzy that span from their meeting as a therapeutic balm to his unrequited love
"Darcy fingered the folded missive, his thumb running over her name in his script.
Miss Elizabeth Bennet: such a beautiful name to precede these words of burden."
We open with Darcy smarting from Lizzy's rejection and making plans to flee ASAP.
‘ Yet now those thoughts were darker, blanketed with soot from her scorching words as he now had the distinction of knowing he could not have her should he choose it.’
However the best laid plans of mice and men oft go astray, and when Darcy's carriage breaks down but a few miles from Rosings they are forced once more unto the breach and ask to borrow one of Lady C's.
Not so fast! Lady C's loyal and sassy butler Gibbons is a strategist! Thanks to his machinations to keep Darcy near for more time to ensnare him to 'the parson's mouse trap' w/Anne, the carriages are conveniently unavailable for 4 days of maintenance and by extension Darcy & Col. Fitz.
Ouu how I WISHED Gibbons had more page time, because let me tell you, I have scarcely been more enchanted by a minor character! He’s a delicious, saucy bitch, you can just tell!
This is a fresh source of misery to Darcy, he is reeling from the disappointment;
“He wanted to hate her, to let his disappointment soak into that part of his heart that she still occupied, and evict her. But he still filled with warmth, and that heart, wounded yet still traitorous, beat with a rapid tattoo at the perfect image of her in his mind…poured out once again upon the page a confession—a plea of mercy. Release me of your hold!”
Lizzy is smarting too from the proposal; she is absorbing his letter and realizing her lapse in judgement
'For the first time, Elizabeth considered her response to Darcy’s proposal at the parsonage. And like a pebble dropped in a pond, once introduced, the thought rippled, expanding until she could think of nothing else. She was troubled by her intemperate words.'
Thus circumstance conspires and ODC are thrown back together much sooner! Darcy stumbles upon a sleeping Lizzy in the Rosings hedge maze and what a sweet and awkward treat it is!
They have this long pleasant interaction, but Darcy tests his luck a bit too soon after a bee bite;
“It does not pain me much at all, Miss Bennet. Thank you for your kind attentions.” Darcy paused, held his breath, and feeling a little confidence embolden him at having her keep his handkerchief, added recklessly, “The pain I believe would leave entirely if you were to kiss it.”
They are thrown in a few instances more after this but mainly we see Darcy institute changes and exert himself in the hopes he may be worthy of Lizzy should happenstance throw them back together
Lizzy also has her own fledgling tendre we witness quicken and stir in Hunsford and grow until Pemberley.
It doesn't hurt that she gets an extra helpful shove from the 12 billet-doux she accidentally is sent.
“Your wit astounds me, your grace beguiles me, and heaven help me, I am undone by your beauty. This evening, while you read your book in the parlour, I watched you worry a curl by your ear. I assure you the distraction caused me to lose the game of cards. All I could think was that I wished I could worry them all!”
'My dearest Elizabeth,'
Elizabeth wept again with a stupid feeling of relief that he had so recently addressed her thus. Encouraged by this endearment, she read on.
'Yes, Elizabeth, you are my dearest and shall be forevermore.'
What Stood Out:
♡ Anne
♡ The writing: utterly evocative and romantic
‘His eyes became glossy as he felt his battered heart knit together the jaded edges where past hurts once festered.’
♡ The descriptors for the turn of both Darcy in his understanding as he takes his beloved's reprimands to heart, and for Lizzy in gradual growth of affections.
“But there is no conflict in my heart, no burden. There is simply not room enough for anything but you.”
♡ Fast paced; skips to the interesting scenes in economical manner, keeps you enthralled
♡ Darcy soundly besotted,
“Elizabeth.” The word poured from Darcy’s lips before he could stop it. She was always on the edge of his thoughts and the cusp of every breath.’
♡ THE LETTERS! They are revealed more in full towards the end and they are just.. *sigh*
What Peeved Me:
➳ Darcy and the Colonel reading and discussing another Austen work; it is too Meta Reference-y & jerked me out of the story, not to mention totally irrelevant to plot.
➳ The epilogue- but I've never had the stomach for them.
Verdict:
Adorable! That was the descriptor flashing at the forefront of my mind perpetually as I gushed and awed at the interactions between the ardent Darcy, and the bemused but smarting Lizzy.
The letters fit so well with something Darcy might do that I am tempted to adopt it into my personal P&P head canon… deliberating... deliberating... Approved!
Henceforth it will be my universally acknowledge truth that Mr Darcy wrote Lizzy unsent billet-doux’s during their tumultuous acquaintance in a futile attempt to curtail his ardent love, and that he eventually bestowed unto her!
I’ve read all of KaraLynne Mackrory work and she always manages the cutest and sweetest ODC interactions but this, boy oh boy, this takes the cake as my favorite of hers!
How odd it is that the one of hers I left to simmer in my to-read would be my favorite? Goes to show always scoop till the Bottom of the barrel is dry!
Take heart reader; there is always more excellent JAFF just around the corner. So go to your to-read, yes now! Give consequence to one you’ve been slighting! You never know…
abandoned
August 13, 2018So from the synopsis and other reviews, I thought this was going to be a book told from Darcy's perspective, through the use of letters, that kept to canon to a large extent until Darcy's letter were revealed or something.
When I stopped at about 15% there were already multiple perspectives, zero letters, and instead of creating a story around Darcy when we don't know where he is or what he was doing in canon, there were already new scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth. In which they almost kiss? Nope! Clearly my expectations were way off.
I've given P&P retellings/fan fiction/sequels enough of a chance. I'm out.
When I stopped at about 15% there were already multiple perspectives, zero letters, and instead of creating a story around Darcy when we don't know where he is or what he was doing in canon, there were already new scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth. In which they almost kiss? Nope! Clearly my expectations were way off.
I've given P&P retellings/fan fiction/sequels enough of a chance. I'm out.
April 21, 2020
Masterfully done! I savored the pleasure.
May 9, 2020
I was relieved to find that the premise of this story - Darcy writing letters to Elizabeth that she was never supposed to read and then her receiving them - did not involve some scandalous decision to mail them (in a time when single men and single women were not permitted to correspond), or some betrayal of Darcy's confidence by his sister or cousin, and that the accident of Elizabeth recieving them was actually handled very well.
The letters themselves were lovely as is Elizabeth's response to them. It was all very well written and romantic.
I have several reasons for not rating this higher, even though for the most part I enjoyed this story.
The first is that I dislike when people make Darcy or Elizabeth read Jane Austen novels within their stories. It kind of breaks me out of the universe by getting all meta on me. So I was not happy to have random and unnecessary scenes of Darcy, Georgiana and Fitzwilliam reading and discussing Sense and Sensibility.
The second reason for not rating this story higher is that I really dislike when Darcy confesses his feelings and his actions to everyone. Darcy is famously taciturn. He keeps his emotions hidden and doesn't find words easily, and yet here he not only finds the relief in expressing himself through unsent letters (which is the appeal of the story due to his famous reserve), he also finds the need to blurt out every single circumstance, feeling and the entire history of his interactions with Elizabeth to both his sister and Colonel Fitzwilliam.
This would be unlikely for almost any man to do, but especially for a man such as Darcy. He thinks deeply and acts without needing others to tell him what to do and without constantly requiring a shoulder to cry on. It is part of his appeal and Austen contrasts him with Bingley - who does rely on others to tell him what to do - to demonstrate Darcy's superiority in this way.
All his soul searching and constantly talking about his feelings makes it feel like a woman's version of a man, rather than how a man would really act.
Nevertheless, the ending to this story was very sweet (and as a woman who has suffered multiple miscarriages I appreciated the reference to them instead of the immediate pregnancy / baby success that is usual in romances).
Overall I did enjoy this story and think most P&P vagary fans will love it.
The letters themselves were lovely as is Elizabeth's response to them. It was all very well written and romantic.
I have several reasons for not rating this higher, even though for the most part I enjoyed this story.
The first is that I dislike when people make Darcy or Elizabeth read Jane Austen novels within their stories. It kind of breaks me out of the universe by getting all meta on me. So I was not happy to have random and unnecessary scenes of Darcy, Georgiana and Fitzwilliam reading and discussing Sense and Sensibility.
The second reason for not rating this story higher is that I really dislike when Darcy confesses his feelings and his actions to everyone. Darcy is famously taciturn. He keeps his emotions hidden and doesn't find words easily, and yet here he not only finds the relief in expressing himself through unsent letters (which is the appeal of the story due to his famous reserve), he also finds the need to blurt out every single circumstance, feeling and the entire history of his interactions with Elizabeth to both his sister and Colonel Fitzwilliam.
This would be unlikely for almost any man to do, but especially for a man such as Darcy. He thinks deeply and acts without needing others to tell him what to do and without constantly requiring a shoulder to cry on. It is part of his appeal and Austen contrasts him with Bingley - who does rely on others to tell him what to do - to demonstrate Darcy's superiority in this way.
All his soul searching and constantly talking about his feelings makes it feel like a woman's version of a man, rather than how a man would really act.
Nevertheless, the ending to this story was very sweet (and as a woman who has suffered multiple miscarriages I appreciated the reference to them instead of the immediate pregnancy / baby success that is usual in romances).
Overall I did enjoy this story and think most P&P vagary fans will love it.
January 18, 2019
I read a short story by this author which was very enjoyable, so I decided to give her longer works another chance (the last one was mixed IMO). Unfortunately, this writer’s talents are more suited to short stories - individual scenes are very good, but most of the book is filler.
It took 65% of the book to get the letters to Elizabeth, yet the information needed only 2/3 chapters. There are good scenes, such as the Darcy-Anne interaction & the meeting at Bromley, though accidents are a little overused and so feel unrealistic all together. Outside these scenes there is a lot of repetitive examination of feelings etc and samey conversations which are fairly boring and I did skip large parts.
The letters themselves and Elizabeth’s reaction were lovely. I liked her letters too. And the letters in the last chapter - actually that whole scene was adorable.
When they meet again, the author tries to reuse large parts of the original work which doesn’t quite make sense; especially when Darcy asks for an introduction to the Gardiners who he’d met in April at their house. Later, Miss Bingley comes from London, though only a few weeks earlier she’d been dispatched to a northern aunt (presumably as punishment). I feel like these silly continuity errors should be fixed in editing if not by the author. There are also a number of spelling errors etc, so maybe it wasn’t edited.
There is also a huge mistake in Lydia marriage by special licence in London. People eloped because you needed parental permission to marry under 21 in England & thus you had to go to Scotland to do so without it, so they couldn’t have married in London without Mr Bennet’s consent, by licence or otherwise. Very frustrating.
It took 65% of the book to get the letters to Elizabeth, yet the information needed only 2/3 chapters. There are good scenes, such as the Darcy-Anne interaction & the meeting at Bromley, though accidents are a little overused and so feel unrealistic all together. Outside these scenes there is a lot of repetitive examination of feelings etc and samey conversations which are fairly boring and I did skip large parts.
The letters themselves and Elizabeth’s reaction were lovely. I liked her letters too. And the letters in the last chapter - actually that whole scene was adorable.
When they meet again, the author tries to reuse large parts of the original work which doesn’t quite make sense; especially when Darcy asks for an introduction to the Gardiners who he’d met in April at their house. Later, Miss Bingley comes from London, though only a few weeks earlier she’d been dispatched to a northern aunt (presumably as punishment). I feel like these silly continuity errors should be fixed in editing if not by the author. There are also a number of spelling errors etc, so maybe it wasn’t edited.
There is also a huge mistake in Lydia marriage by special licence in London. People eloped because you needed parental permission to marry under 21 in England & thus you had to go to Scotland to do so without it, so they couldn’t have married in London without Mr Bennet’s consent, by licence or otherwise. Very frustrating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2020
So in this story we see the disastrous proposal but then the line line alters... Darcy and the Colonel have to return to Rosings due to carriage problems which allows for some extra time with Elizabeth in a chance meeting inside a maze. A mistake in the ride back to London for Elizabeth also leads to some extra carriage time with Darcy... she's realising her mistake and feelings are changing but will she ever see him again? Darcy has taken to writing letters to Elizbeth and storing them in a secret compartment in his writing desk. He's using them almost a journal.... very deep, emotional and soul bearing letters.... which she'll never read... however would she get them?? You know it's going to happen!!
The only real complaint I have about this book is that a thread started to develop between Anne and Darcy that didn't seem to have any relevance. This book starts quite slow and speeds up towards the end and I wonder if it wasn't a bit rushed. Darcy is a lot more open with his feelings in this book - to Ricgard, Georgiana and Anne and yet it seems to have no real impact on the story. I expected them to help him. To be fair, the Colonel offers a bit if encouragement but otherwise Darcy manages to sort this mess out on his own... and maybe a second little complaint is to mention we don't have ravines in England.
This is a nice, sweet story - reasonably low angst as we all know where those letters are ending up!!
The only real complaint I have about this book is that a thread started to develop between Anne and Darcy that didn't seem to have any relevance. This book starts quite slow and speeds up towards the end and I wonder if it wasn't a bit rushed. Darcy is a lot more open with his feelings in this book - to Ricgard, Georgiana and Anne and yet it seems to have no real impact on the story. I expected them to help him. To be fair, the Colonel offers a bit if encouragement but otherwise Darcy manages to sort this mess out on his own... and maybe a second little complaint is to mention we don't have ravines in England.
This is a nice, sweet story - reasonably low angst as we all know where those letters are ending up!!
February 25, 2020
Oh man this book took me a few days to read but only because I had to go to that evil institution called work. The Darcy in this book is very believable and I could see the original doing this as well. All of the characters in my opinion were true to form. I enjoyed the fact that even though Lydia still eloped in this book it wasn't to Wickham at all. Actually after Wickham leaves Meryton he is not even really mentioned at except the end where we learn his fate. This book was very enjoyable to me and I'll probably read it again in the future.
Rating: 4½ stars out of 5
*edit 2/25/20 - it's still as good the second time around.
Rating: 4½ stars out of 5
*edit 2/25/20 - it's still as good the second time around.
May 10, 2020
During their full acquaintance, Darcy writes secret letters to Elizabeth. However, he doesn't send them. They are signed, sealed and addressed and hidden. In this story, those hidden letters are accidentally mailed and Elizabeth receives them unbeknownst by her family or others. The letters and some humility by all parties lead to a wonderful happily ever after.
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