The Gallant Vicar: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

by Barbara Silkstone

In the GALLANT VICAR, Darcy and Elizabeth retain the same jousting banter contained in my MISTER DARCY SERIES, but they have now returned to their own time where insults are an art form and reputations the most valued of commodities.

What would happen if Mr. Collins finally snapped and Elizabeth might be the cause of his breakdown? What if he were replaced at the Hunsford parish by a charming, unwed vicar who arrives on the heels of Elizabeth’s rejection of Darcy?

Darcy is desperate to deconstruct the growing attachment Elizabeth feels for the new vicar. Determined to unearth the truth about the clergyman before Elizabeth is coerced into marriage, Darcy swings into action even as he fears he will appear to be jealous.

Will Darcy save the day? Will Elizabeth accept his help? And exactly who is the Gallant Vicar?

230 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 8, 2015

About the author

Barbara Silkstone is the best-selling author of the Wendy Darlin Tomb Raider series that includes: Wendy and the Lost Boys, London Broil, Cairo Caper, Miami Mummies, Vulgarian Vamp, Wendy Darlin Tomb Raider Boxed Set. Her Criminally Funny Fables Romantic Suspense series includes: The Secret Diary of Alice in Wonderland, Age 42 and Three-Quarters; Wendy and the Lost Boys; Zo White and the Seven Morphs. For a squirt of paranormal comedy try: Cold Case Morphs. True fiction fan? Try: The Adventures of a Love Investigator.

New: Mister Darcy Series
Book One: Mister Darcy's Dogs
Book Two: Mister Darcy's Christmas
Book Three: Mister Darcy's Secret

Silkstone’s writing has been described as “perfectly paced and pitched – shades of Janet Evanovich and Carl Hiaasen – without seeming remotely derivative. Fast moving action that shoots from the hip with bullet-proof characterization.”

Reviews

[Talia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I could not wait for this to end. I had trouble getting through it at all. It was only my knitting that got me through. I have liked other books by this author so I was surprised at the quality of this story. I don't usually care if the characters are true or if a story is outlandish. It bothers me when all the adults in a story have to rely on Elizabeth. That was the first problem, the second being that Elizabeth had no sense whatsoever and was not an Elizabeth I would want to know, third, Darcy and Elizabeth had no reason to like each other or have any change of heart at all, fourth, Mary and a farmer?! (not that I am against that sort of thing, but a farmer?), etc... It just went on and on with no style or reason. There are other books that are way off base but the storylines are usually so crazy that you have to laugh. Since this is an author I found clever in the past, it led to a more adverse reaction from me. Wish I could have loved it which is what I expected and wanted.

Listened to this audiobook, I liked it so much more than when I read it. Perhaps, I was cranky that day. The problems are still there but the reader was so good that they didn't bother me as much. But Mary with a farmer? Fun audiobook.

[Teresita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing concept

Enchanting tale, with lots of intrigue and misunderstanding. I felt for Darcy, having to compete against a very charming man, one that has a silver tongue.
Very entertaining!

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is fascinating. I really did not want to put it down. However, i thought the courtship and change of elizabeth's feelings after she rejects darcy were not well explained. He was very officious and she cuts him deeply and then the next time she sees him she's throwing herself into his arms? Not very believable. That said, I did enjoy Darcy's persistence in this story and the interesting story line of the gallant vicar.

[Carole (in Canada) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had the novel premise that Mr. Collins was found insane. Poor Charlotte's predictions of 'not knowing your spouse better' didn't work out so well for her here! Mr. Collins is still upset with Elizabeth for refusing him and her visit with Charlotte is not overly pleasant. Lady Catherine also finds her impertinent and wants her gone.

The book starts at Hunsford Cottage where Darcy is in the midst of declaring his love and insulting Elizabeth with his proposal. Unfortunately, after learning of Darcy's involvement of separating her favourite sister, Jane, and Charles Bingley from Colonel Fitzwilliam, she is furious with him. Not having a high opinion of him to begin with, she refuses. After angering Mr. Collins later that same day, she is told she must leave the next morning. Darcy is still able to provide her with his letter but she never reads it. Then disaster strikes and Mr. Collins is committed and Charlotte must leave the parsonage. This has not only Elizabeth but Mary returning to Hunsford to help Charlotte pack before the new vicar arrives. I loved Mary in this story and would have appreciated further development within the story of her. For me, through most of this story, I found Elizabeth to be too angry at Darcy especially when the new vicar arrives. There is a bit of a mystery surrounding the quick appearance of him. Not only is Darcy worried/jealous but Mary has her doubts as well. Maybe for me, Elizabeth is just a bit too 'modern' in this portrayal.

The book is a quick, light read that could have used a bit more development. Certain actions were requested by Elizabeth and Mary of Mr. Bennet that you never find out about. One was taken care of by Mr. Darcy but had Mr. Bennet ever made an effort? Maybe the sequel will help to clarify them.

[Lilmissmolly · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Gallant Vicar by Barbara Siltstone is an entertaining story using several characters from the classic Pride and Prejudice novel by Jane Austen. In this retelling, Mr. Collins has gone mad and is committed to an institution. Elizabeth travels to aid Charlotte after Lady Catherine tosses her out to let a new vicar stay in the home. Like in the original, Mr. Darcy proposes in the most insulting way, and Elizabeth refuses. Once the new vicar arrives, and immediately shows Elizabeth special attention, Mr. Darcy doubts his sincerity and investigates the vicar's credentials and history. And of course, the vicar ends up not being the person everything thought he was.

What I liked about this story was the mystery involved in trying to figure out if the vicar was sincere or not. Indeed the vicar seemed a bit smarmy by the end of the story (and reminded me a bit of Wickham). Even Elizabeth - on her own — didn't like how the vicar attempted to manipulate her and realized her heart was not touched by him. I also liked how Darcy took it upon himself to find out the truth behind the vicar, not because he thought his actions would force Elizabeth to accept him, but because he didn't want to see Elizabeth harmed by the vicar, even if she ultimately chose someone else.

I listened to the Audible version of this story narrated by Jannie Meisberger.
She did an admirable job and the narration definitely contributed to my enjoyment of this book. I recommend this audio to anyone who enjoys Jane Austin Fan Fiction.

[Les · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very strange story. It begins with Lizzy Bennet in Hunsford rejecting Mr. Darcy's deplorable proposal. She then fights with Mr. Collins and is evicted from the parsonage by Lady Catherine. Mr. Darcy gives her a letter but she doesn't read it. She returns to Longbourn confused and conflicted. Then she and Mary have to go to Meryton to extract Lydia & Kitty from a room or tent full of attentive militia members. Afterward Lydia calls Col. Forrester "Gallant" which causes an uproar because apparently before gallant meant brave and heroic it meant when a man flirts with a woman, specifically a married woman not his wife.

When an express arrives from Hunsford explaining that Mr. Collins has run mad and been dragged off to a London asylum Lizzy and Mary can't get there fast enough. And thanks to the frantic pacing typical to this author they do... Lady Catherine wants Mrs. Collins gone so she can begin her cover up of the Collins' ever existing in her rarefied air. Lizzy thinks she discovers a secret about Mr. Darcy and the new Vicar arrives.

Lizzy is immediately taken with him, Darcy is immediately suspicious.[Reality Check: Lizzy is a terrible judge of character]. Charlotte takes a tumble and can't be moved and the story continues on at its frantic pace where Mary falls in love with a tenant farmer.

Can Darcy unmask our 'gallant' vicar before Lizzy finds herself leg shackled to him? Will Mr. Collins ever return? And whose 'natural daughter' is Mr. Darcy tutoring? Read on McDuff Read on.

[Yvonne Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a lot of fun. Those Bennett girls seem to always be in the middle of trouble. Lizzy has such a strong personality that most people off. She rushes to to aid of her friend after her husband the vicar goes off the deep end and is taken away, she must battle Lady Catherine.
Lizzy receives a marriage proposal from Mr Darcy, and she is sure he is an egotistical person and not one she wants to spend the rest of her life with. When the new vicar comes to town Lizzy wonders if he is the one?? He has a quick wit personality just like Lizzy, but Mr Darcy is sure that something is a miss and is quick to find out what and to win Lizzy ' s heart.
I am so glad that there is another book in this series.
Barbara Silkstone writes with such wit. They are quick read books that always make you smile.

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't even know how to start this review. The main premise of this book is that Mr Collins goes mad and has to be locked away in a asylum. Elizabeth and Mary go to help Charlotte and meet the new vicar of Hunsford. Lizzy stays mad at Darcy throughout most of the book and Darcy is possessive towards her. It seemed like the author tried to stay true to the original characters but to me they seemed a little out of character.

The book was good but it could have been better if it had been fleshed out some more. We don't even hear about the Bennets after Lizzy and Mary leave for Hunsford and Jane only shows up towards the end of the book. Again it could have been better if it was more fleshed out.

[Zena · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is such a good story it doesn't matter who writes it, though I must admit that this is a great version.
In this one we have the antics of a slimy Vicar and of course he creates havoc in the lives of some of the characters, but it all works out splendidly and all live happily ever after.
A good job of narration here by Jannie Meisberger.
I would recommend this book or the audiobook quite happily. It was most enjoyable.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast dot com.

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

After the proposal at Rosings, Elizabeth is sent away only to return with Mary to help Mrs Collins in her hour of need. But who is the new vicar that Elizabeth is attracted to. Can Darcy win Elizabeth after his previous disastrous proposal.
A re-read so that I can now read the sequel.
An enjoyable, quick light read

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this Pride and Prejudice variation, Lizzy's visit to Charlotte Collins has unintended consequences. After Lizzy rejects Darcy's proposal, she returns to Longbourn without reading his explanation letter. But the day after she arrives at home, she receives shocking news from Charlotte. Mr. Collins' mental state, only hanging by a thread, finally snaps and he's sent to an asylum. Lizzy and Mary return to Hunsford to help Charlotte and Lizzy meets the new vicar, the handsome and agreeable Mr. Martell. Darcy takes an instant dislike to the vicar and this cements Lizzy's bad opinion of Darcy even further. Can Darcy change Lizzy's mind before she's won over by the captivating vicar?

This was a sweet Pride and Prejudice variation with plenty of charm! Here, Lizzy hangs onto her prejudice of Darcy much longer than usual, thinking the worst of him and jumping to conclusions with no evidence. Even after finally learning about Wickham she still trusts another charmer! Darcy goes above and beyond to win her and is the soul of patience. I love Barbara Silkstone's writing, she's witty and there were unexpected little phrases that had me laughing out loud. The story doesn't end on a cliffhanger, but there is room for more.

The narration was well done with the perfect accent and voice for the story. It was an enjoyable listen. I requested a copy of the audiobook, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review.

[Gaele · Rating 4 out of 5]

AudioBook Review:
Stars: Overall 4 Narration 4 Story 4

Elizabeth Bennett (Lizzy) is again in the midst of chaos – with an insane Mr. Collins causing her friend Charlotte fits, and a less than romantic and more than slightly insulting proposal from Darcy, Lizzy is at a crossroads. Speaking her mind has often brought her grief – and with her discovery of his involvement in Jane’s life, she’s more than justified (she thinks) in refusing him. As Mr. Collins sanity leaves, so must Charlotte – ousted by Lady Catherine to make place for a new vicar.

Lizzy and Mary arrive at Hunsford to help Charlotte move house, and with justified anger and feeling less than valued, Lizzy is still stung and reacting to Darcy’s non-proposal proposal. Planning to clear out before the Vicar arrives, a quiet moment finds Lizzy in the vicarage graveyard when first meeting Francis Martell, the replacement vicar that arrived early, according to his own plan.

Still frustrated and confused with her emotions about Darcy, Lizzy is confounded and intrigued by Martell – she appreciates his naughty witticisms and the attention he pays her. But her sister Mary (and also Charlotte) are not as intrigued. And in a matter of days, a process that would require an investigation and time has been shortened, even sooner than expected. Darcy isn’t as amused with the newcomer, and he’s frustrated by Lizzie’s fascination. A confounding series of elements and sly humor highlight this story as we move closer to Lizzie’s decision: Darcy or the Vicar.

Narration in this story is provided by Jannie Meisberger and her voice and pacing are perfect for the story – not quite carrying the distinctive flatness of inflection common to the ton, but suitable (if restrained veddy British) lack of overwhelming emotion when those moments are called for. Internal monologues from Lizzy are lighter and often more tortured in her circular thinking, showing her confusion and conflicting thoughts. Martell and Darcy each had their own tone and delivery styles, as did all of the other characters. While the story isn’t quite concluded, and there was a bit of a rush to the end, the story provides a quirky and clever alternate moment in the life of Elizabeth and Darcy.

I received an audiobook copy of the title from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
This review was originally posted on I am, Indeed

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It is exceptional for a first romp in regency writing from an author who writes modern Darcy comedic mysteries. The story begins at the time of Darcy's first proposal. The angst and misunderstandings are there and reconciliation is hampered by one who wants to keep Darcy and Elizabeth apart for his own nefarious reasons. This villain is totally unexpected and, in my opinion, worse than Wickham for his underhandedness and manipulations. I hated stopping the story to go in to work. The narrator has a beautiful accent that makes the story and characters come alive.

[Amy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Enjoyable

I enjoyed reading 3/4 of the book. I liked the plot and Darcy's competition for Elizabeth's affections. I also liked this version of Mary. I believe the ending kind of fell apart, though. It felt rushed and many details left unfinished, just dropped. A bit of a disappointment. Lots of spelling and grammatical errors.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

"This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of Audiobook Blast."


This is an interesting spin on the story of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. I enjoyed this version.

The narration was well done, The characters were excellently portrayed.