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Elizabeth Bennet's Excellent Adventure: A Pride and Prejudice Vagary
The Last Man in the World She Wishes to Marry is the One Man Who Owns Her Heart!
ELIZABETH BENNET adamantly refused Fitzwilliam Darcy’s proposal, but when Maria Lucas discovers the letter Darcy offers Elizabeth in explanation of his actions, Elizabeth must swallow her objections in order to save her reputation. She follows Darcy to London and pleads for the gentleman to renew his proposal. Yet, even as she does so, Elizabeth knows not what she fears most: being Mr. Darcy’s wife or the revenge he might consider for her earlier rebuke.
FITZWILLIAM DARCY would prefer that Elizabeth Bennet held him in affection, but he reasons that even if she does not, having Elizabeth at his side is far better than claiming another to wife. However, when a case of mistaken identity causes Darcy not to show at his wedding ceremony, he finds himself in a desperate search for his wayward bride-to-be.
Elizabeth, realizing Society will label her as “undesirable” after being abandoned at the altar, sets out on an adventure to mark her future days as the spinster aunt to her sisters’ children. However, Darcy means to locate her and to convince Elizabeth that his affections are true, and a second chance will prove him the “song that sets her heart strumming.”
ELIZABETH BENNET adamantly refused Fitzwilliam Darcy’s proposal, but when Maria Lucas discovers the letter Darcy offers Elizabeth in explanation of his actions, Elizabeth must swallow her objections in order to save her reputation. She follows Darcy to London and pleads for the gentleman to renew his proposal. Yet, even as she does so, Elizabeth knows not what she fears most: being Mr. Darcy’s wife or the revenge he might consider for her earlier rebuke.
FITZWILLIAM DARCY would prefer that Elizabeth Bennet held him in affection, but he reasons that even if she does not, having Elizabeth at his side is far better than claiming another to wife. However, when a case of mistaken identity causes Darcy not to show at his wedding ceremony, he finds himself in a desperate search for his wayward bride-to-be.
Elizabeth, realizing Society will label her as “undesirable” after being abandoned at the altar, sets out on an adventure to mark her future days as the spinster aunt to her sisters’ children. However, Darcy means to locate her and to convince Elizabeth that his affections are true, and a second chance will prove him the “song that sets her heart strumming.”
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2015
79 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Regina Jeffers
134 books705 followersRegina Jeffers, an award-winning author of historical cozy mysteries, Austenesque sequels and retellings, as well as Regency era romances, has worn many hats over her lifetime: daughter, student, military brat, wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, tax preparer, journalist, choreographer, Broadway dancer, theatre director, history buff, grant writer, media literacy consultant, and author. Living outside of Charlotte, NC, Jeffers writes novels that take the ordinary and adds a bit of mayhem, while mastering tension in her own life with a bit of gardening and the exuberance of her “grand joys.”
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
September 10, 2021
ETA (9.10.21)
Recently one of my GR friends posted notes from this story highlighting a lot of lazy typos
when I reviewed my thoughts on the book I discovered I had neglected to turn on my notes and I had highlighted many of the same errors. Thus a star deduction for being too lazy to re-edit the book.
I don't know how this book came about but in my mind it was something like this
So we begin at Rosings immediately following Darcy's disastrous proposal he hies back to his room to write a letter and writes and writes and writes and then entrusts a servant to put the correct letter in his pocket [dun dun dun]
The letter is delivered to Miss Elizabeth Bennet who hides in among her unmentionables in a room she share with Miss Maria Lucas [dun dun dun]
Miss Lucas reads the letter and it turns out this isn't JA's famous communiqué but instead a real love letter ... now Lizzy is in big trouble because she has to get Mr. Darcy to marry her before Charlotte's sister spills the dirt all over Meryton.
Now Lizzy returns to London and tracks down Darcy and very quickly she says "Yes, I will marry you" and that is just the beginning of a story that will include:
1] a kidnapping
2] a bride left at the altar
3] a missing woman
4] a character from Persuasion
5] an elopement
6] and 4 grooms for 4 sisters....
And much. much more...
So of the subplots are a bit contrived and some are just Lizzy and Darcy being stubborn about idiotic things. Every time the book took one more twist and set up one more obstacle I would think "really?"
The book ends at 92% on my Kindle.
Recently one of my GR friends posted notes from this story highlighting a lot of lazy typos
when I reviewed my thoughts on the book I discovered I had neglected to turn on my notes and I had highlighted many of the same errors. Thus a star deduction for being too lazy to re-edit the book.
I don't know how this book came about but in my mind it was something like this
A group of JAFF authors are in a room and someone said "No one can squeeze 5 or 6 angsty separate plots into one story"
And Regina Jeffers replied "Hold my beer"
So we begin at Rosings immediately following Darcy's disastrous proposal he hies back to his room to write a letter and writes and writes and writes and then entrusts a servant to put the correct letter in his pocket [dun dun dun]
The letter is delivered to Miss Elizabeth Bennet who hides in among her unmentionables in a room she share with Miss Maria Lucas [dun dun dun]
Miss Lucas reads the letter and it turns out this isn't JA's famous communiqué but instead a real love letter ... now Lizzy is in big trouble because she has to get Mr. Darcy to marry her before Charlotte's sister spills the dirt all over Meryton.
Now Lizzy returns to London and tracks down Darcy and very quickly she says "Yes, I will marry you" and that is just the beginning of a story that will include:
1] a kidnapping
2] a bride left at the altar
3] a missing woman
4] a character from Persuasion
5] an elopement
6] and 4 grooms for 4 sisters....
And much. much more...
So of the subplots are a bit contrived and some are just Lizzy and Darcy being stubborn about idiotic things. Every time the book took one more twist and set up one more obstacle I would think "really?"
The book ends at 92% on my Kindle.
May 9, 2016
4.5 stars
I am on a roll reading some of Regina Jeffers’ books as she has some on sale this month in honor of Mothers’ Day. I had read 7 of her books previously so have come to know that I can just about bet on my awarding her books a high star value in knowing of her skills. (One of my recent buys was however a disappointment but that is only one vs. the seven of higher enjoyment.)
As the book description tells us we start off in Kent where Elizabeth has rejected Darcy’s ignominious proposal. Darcy’s reaction here is to write, not one, but three letters. The first is committed to the fire as it contains vile abuses of Wickham in reaction to Elizabeth’s defense of that man. The second is more on the line of a love letter, but that too is not to be sent. It is more to put it all down on paper and to then cleanse his soul of those passions. The third letter is the one of which canon tells us. But as he has his valet pack things to leave after his “walk” things are not placed where they are intended…so Elizabeth receives not a letter explaining why he acted as he did for Bingley’s sake nor the truth about Wickham but one pouring out the depths of his esteem.
And to compound the error his valet made…Maria Lucas goes snooping in Elizabeth’s unmentionables and not only finds the hidden letter but also reads it. I found that bit a stretch as Maria is a shy and retiring girl in canon and I would not expect her to act so precipitously. (But let’s go on.) Maria then confronts Elizabeth about the letter and wants to assign it as one to Jane. In protecting Jane, Elizabeth has to reveal that she is the lady to whom Mr. Darcy directs his attentions. AND not trusting Maria to keep all this a secret she now must seek out Mr. Darcy in London and hope his desires and feelings towards her remain secure, as she must marry to save her and her family from disgrace. A love letter between unmarried individuals is a no-no, an impropriety.
Darcy is only too happy to have a marriage even if it is one of convenience; if the one in his bed is one he loves rather than just one he must chose to sire an heir. But as we read in the book description…Darcy does not show up for the wedding. (And you must know there is a story there.) All of Meryton now looks on Elizabeth as a jilted bride. And she is only too ready to blame herself as having earned this revenge in the way she ranted and accused him at Hunsford. OK, facing a life of disgrace but believing Jane has again secured Mr. Bingley’s admiration, she accepts a future of spinster governess to her sister’s children. But as that may be a few years off and as the community is a hotbed of gossip about her disgrace, Elizabeth slyly plans an adventure, her last gasp of defiant freedom, away for all who know her and judge her.
So we follow her here and there and watch how she connives to mislead any who might follow her…to Portsmouth. There the author has her meet our hero and his Navy compatriots from Jane Austen’s tale of Persuasion. Darcy is not too happy to be a witness to attentions paid by one Captain there.
This story is one in which the author again gives us a study on how Elizabeth’s self worth could have been wounded by her upbringing under Mrs. Bennet’s role as mother, a role in which Jane’s beauty and Lydia’s liveliness seem to be the only values she finds of worth in her daughters. But we also read of Darcy’s observation of Elizabeth impulsive behavior, her sharp wit and her rapier tongue and of how he thinks only of how his life is going to be one of many adventures and surprises with her by his side.
There are several bylines in this story: Lydia, Wickham, Mary, a Captain Vaughan, a Mr. Sloane and his sister and Colonel Fitzwilliam; all of whom help us to appreciate how much Darcy is willing to take on in his desire to prove to Elizabeth his esteem for her and his lasting loyalty.
An Aside: I do have to add that I also found the mention of a pearl necklace worn to her wedding ceremony to be contradicted by the description of the wearing of the necklace purchased on Bond Street. And it was a bit jarring to read how “he affected her” rather than how he loved her…but then I am no expert in the language of the day. I only mention it so that others will know the language is not that which I usually find in other JAFF books. It takes some getting used to and/or some rereading of passages.
I am on a roll reading some of Regina Jeffers’ books as she has some on sale this month in honor of Mothers’ Day. I had read 7 of her books previously so have come to know that I can just about bet on my awarding her books a high star value in knowing of her skills. (One of my recent buys was however a disappointment but that is only one vs. the seven of higher enjoyment.)
As the book description tells us we start off in Kent where Elizabeth has rejected Darcy’s ignominious proposal. Darcy’s reaction here is to write, not one, but three letters. The first is committed to the fire as it contains vile abuses of Wickham in reaction to Elizabeth’s defense of that man. The second is more on the line of a love letter, but that too is not to be sent. It is more to put it all down on paper and to then cleanse his soul of those passions. The third letter is the one of which canon tells us. But as he has his valet pack things to leave after his “walk” things are not placed where they are intended…so Elizabeth receives not a letter explaining why he acted as he did for Bingley’s sake nor the truth about Wickham but one pouring out the depths of his esteem.
And to compound the error his valet made…Maria Lucas goes snooping in Elizabeth’s unmentionables and not only finds the hidden letter but also reads it. I found that bit a stretch as Maria is a shy and retiring girl in canon and I would not expect her to act so precipitously. (But let’s go on.) Maria then confronts Elizabeth about the letter and wants to assign it as one to Jane. In protecting Jane, Elizabeth has to reveal that she is the lady to whom Mr. Darcy directs his attentions. AND not trusting Maria to keep all this a secret she now must seek out Mr. Darcy in London and hope his desires and feelings towards her remain secure, as she must marry to save her and her family from disgrace. A love letter between unmarried individuals is a no-no, an impropriety.
Darcy is only too happy to have a marriage even if it is one of convenience; if the one in his bed is one he loves rather than just one he must chose to sire an heir. But as we read in the book description…Darcy does not show up for the wedding. (And you must know there is a story there.) All of Meryton now looks on Elizabeth as a jilted bride. And she is only too ready to blame herself as having earned this revenge in the way she ranted and accused him at Hunsford. OK, facing a life of disgrace but believing Jane has again secured Mr. Bingley’s admiration, she accepts a future of spinster governess to her sister’s children. But as that may be a few years off and as the community is a hotbed of gossip about her disgrace, Elizabeth slyly plans an adventure, her last gasp of defiant freedom, away for all who know her and judge her.
So we follow her here and there and watch how she connives to mislead any who might follow her…to Portsmouth. There the author has her meet our hero and his Navy compatriots from Jane Austen’s tale of Persuasion. Darcy is not too happy to be a witness to attentions paid by one Captain there.
This story is one in which the author again gives us a study on how Elizabeth’s self worth could have been wounded by her upbringing under Mrs. Bennet’s role as mother, a role in which Jane’s beauty and Lydia’s liveliness seem to be the only values she finds of worth in her daughters. But we also read of Darcy’s observation of Elizabeth impulsive behavior, her sharp wit and her rapier tongue and of how he thinks only of how his life is going to be one of many adventures and surprises with her by his side.
There are several bylines in this story: Lydia, Wickham, Mary, a Captain Vaughan, a Mr. Sloane and his sister and Colonel Fitzwilliam; all of whom help us to appreciate how much Darcy is willing to take on in his desire to prove to Elizabeth his esteem for her and his lasting loyalty.
An Aside: I do have to add that I also found the mention of a pearl necklace worn to her wedding ceremony to be contradicted by the description of the wearing of the necklace purchased on Bond Street. And it was a bit jarring to read how “he affected her” rather than how he loved her…but then I am no expert in the language of the day. I only mention it so that others will know the language is not that which I usually find in other JAFF books. It takes some getting used to and/or some rereading of passages.
May 25, 2016
As the book description explains, Darcy's letter to Elizabeth after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford is accidentally discovered by Maria, Elizabeth needs to return to London to find Mr. Darcy in order to save her reputation. I found the beginning just a bit slow and Elizabeth's angst that Darcy will change his mind and not marry her not, a touch overdone. You knew he was not going to attend the wedding with all the build up. However, once it does happen and Elizabeth is shattered, the story picks up and I was engaged.
I found Elizabeth's humanity during her own personal trials very touching. Her adventure is more in learning about herself and realizing how deeply she is affected by Darcy. Darcy in the meantime, is dealing with a near death experience and the only thing that keeps him going is his love for Elizabeth. His battle to not only save himself but find Elizabeth was moving and for him to find her in the company of Captain Wentworth was well done. Darcy also comes to the rescue of the Bennet family when Lydia has eloped with Wickham. In this vagary, the Bennet's know to whom they owe their gratitude. There are many interesting twists in the later part of this story that were enjoyable. I do wish there was an epilogue or a further chapter or two to wrap up some of the results of the other characters.
There were some minor mistakes and the necklace as mentioned in Sheila's review was one of them. Overall, I really enjoyed the story and would recommend to all JAFF lovers.
I found Elizabeth's humanity during her own personal trials very touching. Her adventure is more in learning about herself and realizing how deeply she is affected by Darcy. Darcy in the meantime, is dealing with a near death experience and the only thing that keeps him going is his love for Elizabeth. His battle to not only save himself but find Elizabeth was moving and for him to find her in the company of Captain Wentworth was well done. Darcy also comes to the rescue of the Bennet family when Lydia has eloped with Wickham. In this vagary, the Bennet's know to whom they owe their gratitude. There are many interesting twists in the later part of this story that were enjoyable. I do wish there was an epilogue or a further chapter or two to wrap up some of the results of the other characters.
There were some minor mistakes and the necklace as mentioned in Sheila's review was one of them. Overall, I really enjoyed the story and would recommend to all JAFF lovers.
October 4, 2018
In this Pride and Prejudice variation Darcy stands up Elizabeth at the alter. It was beyond his control but the emotional trauma is there. Elizabeth decides to have an adventure while she can. Darcy does his best to bring her back to him. There is a lot of angst but a very nice happily ever after.
September 9, 2021
I’ve had better adventures
3.5 rounded up
First, I have to say I love his author and have enjoyed several of her books very much. This one was a little too “all over the place”, literally and figuratively. From Kent to London to Longbourn to somewhere in the woods to Portsmouth to Brighton and round and round we go! Multiple plot lines in this one.
Mind you, it’s Regina Jeffers, so there is without a doubt some very nice romantic prose offered throughout the book. I highlighted those. I had to feel for Darcy, who received all the blame for a situation that was taken completely out of his control.
I got really annoyed with the overuse of the word “affect” instead of “love”. In Austen’s P&P, the word “affect” does not appear in that context. Affection yes. I found it so out of place, even though it may have been used back then. Why not use “love”? Jane used it.
One other thing I couldn’t quite come to terms with was how Sloan practically has Darcy murdered, then dumps him in the woods to die, yet he becomes an acceptable husband for Mary. Uh, no. I don’t care if it was mistaken identity. It was still almost murder!
Darcy was the very best part of this book. My stars all go to him and his often beautiful words.
Lastly, I thought this book had a surprisingly high number of proofreading misses for this author.
3.5 rounded up
First, I have to say I love his author and have enjoyed several of her books very much. This one was a little too “all over the place”, literally and figuratively. From Kent to London to Longbourn to somewhere in the woods to Portsmouth to Brighton and round and round we go! Multiple plot lines in this one.
Mind you, it’s Regina Jeffers, so there is without a doubt some very nice romantic prose offered throughout the book. I highlighted those. I had to feel for Darcy, who received all the blame for a situation that was taken completely out of his control.
I got really annoyed with the overuse of the word “affect” instead of “love”. In Austen’s P&P, the word “affect” does not appear in that context. Affection yes. I found it so out of place, even though it may have been used back then. Why not use “love”? Jane used it.
One other thing I couldn’t quite come to terms with was how Sloan practically has Darcy murdered, then dumps him in the woods to die, yet he becomes an acceptable husband for Mary. Uh, no. I don’t care if it was mistaken identity. It was still almost murder!
Darcy was the very best part of this book. My stars all go to him and his often beautiful words.
Lastly, I thought this book had a surprisingly high number of proofreading misses for this author.
December 16, 2018
Original plot
SPOILERS
the day of Darcy’s wedding he is set upon by thugs and beaten almost to death. So he leaves Lizzy at the altar. The rest of the book is about him trying fix the problems that causes. Lizzy has no idea something has happened to Darcy and thinks she’s been jilted. Which of course ruins her, in Regency England.
The story is pretty entertaining.
I recommend the book.
SPOILERS
the day of Darcy’s wedding he is set upon by thugs and beaten almost to death. So he leaves Lizzy at the altar. The rest of the book is about him trying fix the problems that causes. Lizzy has no idea something has happened to Darcy and thinks she’s been jilted. Which of course ruins her, in Regency England.
The story is pretty entertaining.
I recommend the book.
January 11, 2017
Elizabeth Bennet's Excellent Adventure: A Pride and Prejudice Vagary
There wouldn't be much of a story, but there also wouldn't be misunderstandings, if ODB and ODG would just talk! Unfortunately the Hunsford proposal still happened, and Darcy wrote two letters. Unknowingly, he gives the wrong letter to Elizabeth. When Maria discovers the letter amongst Elizabeth's unmentionables, Elizabeth hurries to London to speak to Darcy. Of course, when they begin speaking of the letters each is referring to a different letter. Both know that Maria Lucas will not keep the information to herself. He also has brought Bingley to Jane at Gracechurch Street. The wedding is planned, Darcy has picked up the special ring he had made for Elizabeth plus a necklace with chocolate diamonds he thought matched the sparkle in Elizabeth's eyes and is off to Longbourn. The villain, wicked Wickham, intrudes once again with his deceitful actions and lies. This time Darcy is mistaken for Wickham since Wickham used Darcy's London address as his. He is beaten, tied up, and left to die ten miles out of town. Days pass as well as his wedding day and Elizabeth is shamed by the Meryton people because she's been left at the church without a groom. She convinces her father that it would be better if she would be with the Gardiners. He agrees, but she has had other plans in her mind. Her plans change when she meets a young mother with two small children. Darcy is hot on her trail to where her ticket was to take her not knowing that she exchanged tickets with the young woman. This is where I would like to have stepped into the story and smacked her. When he finally locates her, she's aloof and shrewdly, knowing full well he's the only man she'll ever marry because she loves him. Darcy leaves without her, he finds out about Wickham and Lydia, heads to Longbourn to volunteer to find the two degenerates, requesting that Mr. Bennet pick up Elizabeth. Wickham is now in a heap of mess, because not only is Darcy looking for him, but the man who thought Darcy was Wickham is after him too. Finally, the louse is between a rock and a hard place. Well everything is worked out. Wickham is married, Lydia is married, and Darcy and Elizabeth are married. I loved Darcy in this story. He never gave way to Fitzwilliam's constant nattering that he should just forget Elizabeth and move on. Several times I thought that Darcy would punch his cousin's face in. Darcy's consistency of loving Elizabeth never failed. He had two strong supporters, but many non-supporters that caused delays in their joining. But luckily, they eventually had their HEA.
There wouldn't be much of a story, but there also wouldn't be misunderstandings, if ODB and ODG would just talk! Unfortunately the Hunsford proposal still happened, and Darcy wrote two letters. Unknowingly, he gives the wrong letter to Elizabeth. When Maria discovers the letter amongst Elizabeth's unmentionables, Elizabeth hurries to London to speak to Darcy. Of course, when they begin speaking of the letters each is referring to a different letter. Both know that Maria Lucas will not keep the information to herself. He also has brought Bingley to Jane at Gracechurch Street. The wedding is planned, Darcy has picked up the special ring he had made for Elizabeth plus a necklace with chocolate diamonds he thought matched the sparkle in Elizabeth's eyes and is off to Longbourn. The villain, wicked Wickham, intrudes once again with his deceitful actions and lies. This time Darcy is mistaken for Wickham since Wickham used Darcy's London address as his. He is beaten, tied up, and left to die ten miles out of town. Days pass as well as his wedding day and Elizabeth is shamed by the Meryton people because she's been left at the church without a groom. She convinces her father that it would be better if she would be with the Gardiners. He agrees, but she has had other plans in her mind. Her plans change when she meets a young mother with two small children. Darcy is hot on her trail to where her ticket was to take her not knowing that she exchanged tickets with the young woman. This is where I would like to have stepped into the story and smacked her. When he finally locates her, she's aloof and shrewdly, knowing full well he's the only man she'll ever marry because she loves him. Darcy leaves without her, he finds out about Wickham and Lydia, heads to Longbourn to volunteer to find the two degenerates, requesting that Mr. Bennet pick up Elizabeth. Wickham is now in a heap of mess, because not only is Darcy looking for him, but the man who thought Darcy was Wickham is after him too. Finally, the louse is between a rock and a hard place. Well everything is worked out. Wickham is married, Lydia is married, and Darcy and Elizabeth are married. I loved Darcy in this story. He never gave way to Fitzwilliam's constant nattering that he should just forget Elizabeth and move on. Several times I thought that Darcy would punch his cousin's face in. Darcy's consistency of loving Elizabeth never failed. He had two strong supporters, but many non-supporters that caused delays in their joining. But luckily, they eventually had their HEA.
June 14, 2020
I am a fan of Regina Jeffers but I expected more "adventure" from EB's Excellent Adventure. I would give it three stars for dullness but I went with four because Regina writes so well that it is always a pleasure to read her books. Not much happened in the story to give it the title but it was ok anyway. I think I am used to more than ok from this author. That is a good thing.
Reread: I would give it four stars. I think my mind went right to Bill and Ted! If this book had a different title, I would have liked it more.
Reread: I would give it four stars. I think my mind went right to Bill and Ted! If this book had a different title, I would have liked it more.
June 12, 2022
After Hunsford, Darcy writes Elizabeth an ardent letter that scandalizes Maria when she accidentally sees it. Darcy and Elizabeth agree to marry in order to save her reputation but he gets attacked and misses their wedding. Elizabeth believes he meant to jilt her in order to hurt her like she hurt him, and she feels quite injured, considering it's a man she never originally wanted to marry. She decides to leave home and find a bit of adventure before resigning to a life of ruined spinsterhood. She travels to Portsmouth and makes the acquaintance of Wentworth, Benwick and the Harvilles. Darcy follows her, determined to win back her trust.
I enjoyed this imaginative story although I could not like the author's plans for Mary. I know she often gets the short stick but even Lydia gets her dashing war hero and you couldn't find a man in England who wants to court Mary and hasn't left anyone in the woods to die?
The book could have used another round of final editing as there were some apparent homophone errors and other minor mistakes. Steam level: We are told that they enjoy their intimacy but no graphic scenes.
I enjoyed this imaginative story although I could not like the author's plans for Mary. I know she often gets the short stick but even Lydia gets her dashing war hero and you couldn't find a man in England who wants to court Mary and hasn't left anyone in the woods to die?
The book could have used another round of final editing as there were some apparent homophone errors and other minor mistakes. Steam level: We are told that they enjoy their intimacy but no graphic scenes.
December 30, 2015
3 1/2 stars. Interesting take on Pride and Prejudice. Definitely a vagary. Enjoyed Elizabeth's adventure but was a little crazy. Thought Elizabeth was a little to self absorbed for me and Darcy was too, not Darcy exactly. Anyway did enjoy this story. Was definitely diverting.
October 13, 2015
I can't believe that Elizabeth would have been very shrewish like she was in this book. Other than that it's a good read.
Rating: 4 1/2 stars out of 5
Rating: 4 1/2 stars out of 5
May 26, 2018
This book was a delight for me to read. After Elizabeth is left at the alter by Darcy, she agrees to visit with her London relatives to escape the gossips in her village. But she decides that, since she will be a spinster with no adventures coming her way, ever, she will have a small adventure of her own. Darcy, after being mistaken for Wickham, is beaten and left in the middle of a forest to die. He manages to find help and knows he must get to Elizabeth to explain why he never appeared for their wedding. But first, he has to find her. Since she's not where everyone assumes she is residing, he does track her down and the usual misunderstanding occur, mostly on Elizabeth's part, but they do come together. Loved this book!. I leave you to read and enjoy what happens and how Elizabeth and Darcy, Lydia, Mary and Jane find a happy ever after.
June 8, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. It was fun to take a wild ride with Elizabeth and have her make other acquaintances and enjoy the world a bit. We get to see a bit of Captian Wentworth which is always a bonus and my favorite part of the book is when Darcy sees her with Wentworth and confronts the two of them. My hang up was that Elizabeth came across a bit like a petulant child at times. Other than that, very enjoyable!
May 27, 2024
An impulsive Elizabeth with an ever-steadfast Mr. Darcy, and a crossover to Persuasion
This variation leaves no room for doubt of this author’s gift and/or talent for words and prose when it comes to romance. The remarkable barbs and exchanges between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth, the heart tugging descriptions of their thoughts and realizations of affection, love and yearning for each other are so beautifully written that one can’t help but swoon and wish for such similar love.
Despite an impulsive, impetuous and reckless Elizabeth Bennet, Fitzwilliam Darcy never wavers from his course: to make Elizabeth Bennet his wife once and for all. A moment of violence and mistaken identity prevent Darcy from appearing at his intended wedding day to Elizabeth, leaving the latter broken with self-recriminations and battered with so deep lack of self-confidence and trust in the gentleman that she felt her only solution is to run and hide.
Added is a rival suitor for Elizabeth from Jane Austen’s Persuasion. The author skillfully weaves the crossover of characters together making it plausible. Naturally, Darcy’s resolve is threatened as he watches another gentleman trying to woo his Elizabeth, while Elizabeth struggles to come to terms with her realization that only Mr. Darcy can only be the man for her to spend the rest of her life with.
Many other readers say Elizabeth is childish here, overly dramatic and skirting with impropriety. But in this reader’s humble opinion, that is where the variation this author must have intended. To be sure, the alteration of a pragmatic and proper Elizabeth Bennet of Canon is what makes this variation so much enjoyable and worthwhile the 5 stars and read. This is definitely recommended for JAFF lovers.
This variation leaves no room for doubt of this author’s gift and/or talent for words and prose when it comes to romance. The remarkable barbs and exchanges between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth, the heart tugging descriptions of their thoughts and realizations of affection, love and yearning for each other are so beautifully written that one can’t help but swoon and wish for such similar love.
Despite an impulsive, impetuous and reckless Elizabeth Bennet, Fitzwilliam Darcy never wavers from his course: to make Elizabeth Bennet his wife once and for all. A moment of violence and mistaken identity prevent Darcy from appearing at his intended wedding day to Elizabeth, leaving the latter broken with self-recriminations and battered with so deep lack of self-confidence and trust in the gentleman that she felt her only solution is to run and hide.
Added is a rival suitor for Elizabeth from Jane Austen’s Persuasion. The author skillfully weaves the crossover of characters together making it plausible. Naturally, Darcy’s resolve is threatened as he watches another gentleman trying to woo his Elizabeth, while Elizabeth struggles to come to terms with her realization that only Mr. Darcy can only be the man for her to spend the rest of her life with.
Many other readers say Elizabeth is childish here, overly dramatic and skirting with impropriety. But in this reader’s humble opinion, that is where the variation this author must have intended. To be sure, the alteration of a pragmatic and proper Elizabeth Bennet of Canon is what makes this variation so much enjoyable and worthwhile the 5 stars and read. This is definitely recommended for JAFF lovers.
April 27, 2020
This was an interesting take on P&P - starting at the rejection in Hunsford. From there, the story is quite different. What if Darcy wrote two letters - one to just get all of his feelings out, and the one that we all know from our Dear Jane? What if Elizabeth is given the one with feelings, and not the one she should have received? What if someone found that letter, and was shocked and appalled that Elizabeth was given such a letter? What if Elizabeth decides to go away after he was stood up at the altar?
These questions lead to a good variation of Pride & Prejudice. I am on the fence as to whether or not this should have been 3 or 4 stars. However, just writing this review pushes me towards the 4 star rating that I gave this.
What I liked - It was a good variation of events. It was also wonderful to see Captain Wentworth and the Harvilles make an appearance.
What I didn't like - Darcy's incident was a bit far-fetched, and his constant longing/fantasies for Elizabeth seemed a little over the top.
Even with mixed reviews on my part, I believe I would still recommend it for anyone who wants a little something different in their P&P variations.
These questions lead to a good variation of Pride & Prejudice. I am on the fence as to whether or not this should have been 3 or 4 stars. However, just writing this review pushes me towards the 4 star rating that I gave this.
What I liked - It was a good variation of events. It was also wonderful to see Captain Wentworth and the Harvilles make an appearance.
What I didn't like - Darcy's incident was a bit far-fetched, and his constant longing/fantasies for Elizabeth seemed a little over the top.
Even with mixed reviews on my part, I believe I would still recommend it for anyone who wants a little something different in their P&P variations.
August 10, 2017
Really 4 1\2 Stars
This variation is truly well written. It retains the fiery relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth while adding the question, in Darcy's mind, of a worthy rival. Would Elizabeth keep her understandably hurt feelings because of his unavoidable delay that caused him to miss their wedding? Could she have developed an attachment to this kind man who obviously had genuine affection for her? Would she listen to Darcy's reasons for leaving her waiting at the altar or break his heart to protect her own?
A wonderful adventure! All who love P&P will enjoy this variation.
This variation is truly well written. It retains the fiery relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth while adding the question, in Darcy's mind, of a worthy rival. Would Elizabeth keep her understandably hurt feelings because of his unavoidable delay that caused him to miss their wedding? Could she have developed an attachment to this kind man who obviously had genuine affection for her? Would she listen to Darcy's reasons for leaving her waiting at the altar or break his heart to protect her own?
A wonderful adventure! All who love P&P will enjoy this variation.
June 28, 2017
One of my favorite s
Lizzie is left at the altar after being compromised by Darcy. Jeffers has all of the usual players, although Jane is not seen very much . Darcy is much more personable than he is usually portrayed; Elizabeth is little petulant but all in all a very well written takeoff on P&P. Oh yes, there's some Persuasion thrown in to keep it interesting.
Lizzie is left at the altar after being compromised by Darcy. Jeffers has all of the usual players, although Jane is not seen very much . Darcy is much more personable than he is usually portrayed; Elizabeth is little petulant but all in all a very well written takeoff on P&P. Oh yes, there's some Persuasion thrown in to keep it interesting.
February 23, 2020
In this P&P variation after the Hunsford failed proposal, Maria Lucas finds and reads the letter that Darcy had delivered to Elizabeth Bennet. As it is totally improper for a gentleman to send a letter to a lady, and knowing that Maria will not keep the secret, she nows needs to convince Darcy to marry her before her reputation is ruined. But will all go to plan.
An enjoyable story.
An enjoyable story.
October 19, 2018
Good read
loved the Heart breaking story of being refused, jilted and the leaving everything behind for an adventure. There were some grammatical errors but it didn't seem to affect the story. It kept my interest til the end
loved the Heart breaking story of being refused, jilted and the leaving everything behind for an adventure. There were some grammatical errors but it didn't seem to affect the story. It kept my interest til the end
April 8, 2019
Such an interesting spin on the traditional story, but with each character true to the original. Didn't love the cover (that's not Lizzy!), but I love all things Pride and Prejudice, so this suited my need.
February 23, 2020
great story
A very nice P&P variation. Plenty of twists and turns, but characters stayed true to cannon. I loved the addition of Wentworth and friends.
A very nice P&P variation. Plenty of twists and turns, but characters stayed true to cannon. I loved the addition of Wentworth and friends.
May 30, 2020
Lovely
A rather interesting and lovely variation inspired by Jane Austen's classic novel Pride and Prejudice with an appearance by some of our friends from Persuasion
A rather interesting and lovely variation inspired by Jane Austen's classic novel Pride and Prejudice with an appearance by some of our friends from Persuasion
June 21, 2024
فيها فكره حلوه لكن الشخصيات متعبة للنفسية ، طفوليين جدا ، افكارهم وتصرفاتهم و كلامهم طفولية وتافهة على شخصيات المفروض إنها بالغة وفاهمة وعاقلة
September 25, 2025
Slowly rereading all my books from Regina Jeffers they are all very enjoyable and worth my time I love them all.
This one is special as Captain Wentworth makes a cameo appearance.
This one is special as Captain Wentworth makes a cameo appearance.
February 24, 2016
Let me start by saying that Regina Jeffers is one of my favorite authors, one of my immediate purchase authors.
So I knew I would not be disappointed in this variation and I was correct in that assumption! :D
Elizabeth is in turmoil. Mr. Darcy has just proposed and been rejected, then hands her a letter. She reads it full of curiosity. Then secrets the letter away in her drawer. Where it is found by Maria Lucas who was searching for a ribbon. Elizabeth is in serious need of a renewal of Mr. Darcy's proposal if she is to save her reputation and not ruin her sisters and herself. Maria can not be counted to keep it to herself.
Mr. Darcy is willing to take her hand in any way she is willing to give it. He had hoped for her heart, but her hand is a start.
When Darcy does not show up on his wedding day, Elizabeth is bereft! She thinks he is merely exacting his revenge for her refusal of his hand the first time. She is heartbroken as well. She realizes she has made a grave error.
Elizabeth runs away after telling her father she is going to London to stay with the Gardiners.
This story of "what if" was a wonderful re-visit to my favorite characters. Regina Jeffers knows these people
intimately and can weave new stories with their likeness'. She writes them as though Miss Austen is whispering in her ear. It amazes me every time I read one of her retellings. The consistency of character, wit and sweetness are all present.
I enjoyed this one very much! The intrigues and how they were dealt with was very satisfying!
I loved the way Mr. Bennet and Mary Bennet were written in this one as well!
HEA all around, after quite a bit of chasing and some new/old characters you will recognize!
So I knew I would not be disappointed in this variation and I was correct in that assumption! :D
Elizabeth is in turmoil. Mr. Darcy has just proposed and been rejected, then hands her a letter. She reads it full of curiosity. Then secrets the letter away in her drawer. Where it is found by Maria Lucas who was searching for a ribbon. Elizabeth is in serious need of a renewal of Mr. Darcy's proposal if she is to save her reputation and not ruin her sisters and herself. Maria can not be counted to keep it to herself.
Mr. Darcy is willing to take her hand in any way she is willing to give it. He had hoped for her heart, but her hand is a start.
When Darcy does not show up on his wedding day, Elizabeth is bereft! She thinks he is merely exacting his revenge for her refusal of his hand the first time. She is heartbroken as well. She realizes she has made a grave error.
Elizabeth runs away after telling her father she is going to London to stay with the Gardiners.
This story of "what if" was a wonderful re-visit to my favorite characters. Regina Jeffers knows these people
intimately and can weave new stories with their likeness'. She writes them as though Miss Austen is whispering in her ear. It amazes me every time I read one of her retellings. The consistency of character, wit and sweetness are all present.
I enjoyed this one very much! The intrigues and how they were dealt with was very satisfying!
I loved the way Mr. Bennet and Mary Bennet were written in this one as well!
HEA all around, after quite a bit of chasing and some new/old characters you will recognize!
October 15, 2015
First Elizabeth turns down Darcy's proposal and now must accept it to preserve her reputation. However, when Darcy is beaten and left for dead in the woods, Elizabeth thinks she has been stood up at the altar and decides she wants some adventure in her life before she becomes a spinster. Instead of going to Gardiners as her father believes she has, she sets out for the sea and meets Captain Wentworth. Now Darcy's must find her once he is recovered and convince her that he didn't abandon her. A great plot but I had to give it a lower rating only because I thought Georgiana or Colonel Fitzwilliam would have shared the fact that Darcy was missing with Elizabeth with express post! Or why didn't Darcy just tell Elizabeth what really happened? Why does Elizabeth risk herself further by going someplace no one else knows she's gone? Why doesn't Darcy tell Elizabeth he loves her from the start of their engagement? Good read regardless!
February 8, 2017
Holy Smokes! What a great read!
This book is absolutely wonderful. Whether you are a P & P aficionado or not this would be a fantastic story. Kudos to the author. The right mixture of angst, humor and action makes for a very enjoyable read.
This book is absolutely wonderful. Whether you are a P & P aficionado or not this would be a fantastic story. Kudos to the author. The right mixture of angst, humor and action makes for a very enjoyable read.
December 21, 2015
It was awful. Other than the fact that she changed the personalities of many characters and had them pursue activities that would never have been allowed according to the mores of the day, the worst part was that she adopted the Christian romance novel script that says only bad things can happen to anyone who engages in sexual activity before marriage. Queen Elizabeth is alive and well!
Read
August 10, 2018Regina Jeffers never disappoints! The book was great! Sweet, clean, and a great variation to our Jane Austen P &P. Loved it!
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