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Every Appearance of Composure: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Lady Catherine learns that Mr. Bingley is engaged to marry Miss Jane Bennet. She insists that her favorite nephew, Mr. Darcy, must follow his friend’s example and marry as well. Her ladyship means to carry her point, and she will go to any length—especially when she starts to suspect there’s a mystery woman in Darcy’s life. Will Darcy accept his aunt’s dictate, or will the gentleman follow his heart?
Novella Length: 17,500 words.
Novella Length: 17,500 words.
- GenresRomance
61 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 25, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
May 22, 2018
Hold on tight as this is like Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, fast and furious: 3.5 stars
My suggestion for reading this work…hold on tight as it feels like Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride. Events and circumstances are mixed up and the series of events are out of sequence to P&P. At 61 pages It can be read in one sitting. Erika gave an excellent review… which I read before choosing to read this treatment.
Lady Catherine should have “On The Road Again” as her theme song. In nearly every chapter she was in high dungeon and flitting from one place to another. In Rosings Park her toad of a clergyman set her off by telling her a bit of gossip that put her on the road to Hertfordshire. From there she high-tailed it to London. After a while she thundered back to Hertfordshire again and so on and so on...and then…oh, I’m confused. I don’t know where she went next. Talk about sticking her aristocratic nose into the affairs of all within her sphere of influence. Man she was a piece of work. She thundered, boasted and roared, bribed, insulted, and insinuated, threatened, cajoled, and pressed for those beneath her to do her bidding. I began to feel for her poor coachman and horses.
What I didn’t like…Elizabeth’s attitude in regard to Mr. Darcy. What was her problem? Until nearly the last chapter she still struggled with her opinion of him. The story actually seemed more centered around Lady Catherine and her attitude and demands rather than settling the differences between our dear couple. Kudos to our author for the nod to the 2005 P&P movie. You know the scene… in the gazebo… the near kiss that drives everyone crazy.
At the end of our story, we were informed of additional upcoming publications: Every Appearance of Cordiality, and Every Appearance of Contentment.
My suggestion for reading this work…hold on tight as it feels like Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride. Events and circumstances are mixed up and the series of events are out of sequence to P&P. At 61 pages It can be read in one sitting. Erika gave an excellent review… which I read before choosing to read this treatment.
Lady Catherine should have “On The Road Again” as her theme song. In nearly every chapter she was in high dungeon and flitting from one place to another. In Rosings Park her toad of a clergyman set her off by telling her a bit of gossip that put her on the road to Hertfordshire. From there she high-tailed it to London. After a while she thundered back to Hertfordshire again and so on and so on...and then…oh, I’m confused. I don’t know where she went next. Talk about sticking her aristocratic nose into the affairs of all within her sphere of influence. Man she was a piece of work. She thundered, boasted and roared, bribed, insulted, and insinuated, threatened, cajoled, and pressed for those beneath her to do her bidding. I began to feel for her poor coachman and horses.
What I didn’t like…Elizabeth’s attitude in regard to Mr. Darcy. What was her problem? Until nearly the last chapter she still struggled with her opinion of him. The story actually seemed more centered around Lady Catherine and her attitude and demands rather than settling the differences between our dear couple. Kudos to our author for the nod to the 2005 P&P movie. You know the scene… in the gazebo… the near kiss that drives everyone crazy.
At the end of our story, we were informed of additional upcoming publications: Every Appearance of Cordiality, and Every Appearance of Contentment.
April 5, 2016
Lady Catherine needs a serious set down!!!
This story starts in Hunsford, though prior to making his proposal, Darcy learns of Elizabeth's opinion of him regarding the Jane/Bingley issue. With Darcy off to London he acquaints Bingley with the new information he has on Jane, which sends Bingley to his lady love. Though Darcy truly does love Elizabeth he has mixed emotions regarding if he has a chance to win her love or not, then enters Lady Catherine. She has come to town to hopefully encourage Darcy to the matrimonial state with Anne after hearing Bingley is engaged to the sister of that impertinent young lady. All s*** hits the fan when Darcy continues to refute his claim on Anne and stated that there is someone who has awaken the desire for the married state. Lady Catherine will stop at nothing to find out who the Trollop is and force an end to the madness.
There are many many continued misunderstandings that are always thwarting ODC from an understanding. The big blow to Elizabeth is her mistaken judgement on Wickham and Darcy. I really do like to see Elizabeth knocked of her high horse from time to time. She does tend to think pretty highly of herself. But the final aww moment is so sweet.
This is a tame story, no explicit anything. I did rate it a 4.5 star, just because there were times that some passages garnered me to re-read it to make out an understanding, and to think that Elizabeth's heart could change so fast that by the time she was done reading his letter she was practically in love with Darcy. But overall it was well written and very entertaining as I was at the gym today.
This story starts in Hunsford, though prior to making his proposal, Darcy learns of Elizabeth's opinion of him regarding the Jane/Bingley issue. With Darcy off to London he acquaints Bingley with the new information he has on Jane, which sends Bingley to his lady love. Though Darcy truly does love Elizabeth he has mixed emotions regarding if he has a chance to win her love or not, then enters Lady Catherine. She has come to town to hopefully encourage Darcy to the matrimonial state with Anne after hearing Bingley is engaged to the sister of that impertinent young lady. All s*** hits the fan when Darcy continues to refute his claim on Anne and stated that there is someone who has awaken the desire for the married state. Lady Catherine will stop at nothing to find out who the Trollop is and force an end to the madness.
There are many many continued misunderstandings that are always thwarting ODC from an understanding. The big blow to Elizabeth is her mistaken judgement on Wickham and Darcy. I really do like to see Elizabeth knocked of her high horse from time to time. She does tend to think pretty highly of herself. But the final aww moment is so sweet.
This is a tame story, no explicit anything. I did rate it a 4.5 star, just because there were times that some passages garnered me to re-read it to make out an understanding, and to think that Elizabeth's heart could change so fast that by the time she was done reading his letter she was practically in love with Darcy. But overall it was well written and very entertaining as I was at the gym today.
March 30, 2016
Every Appearance of Composure: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Enjoyed this story very much. The argument and letter writing took place in Hertfordshire after Jane and Bingley's wedding. After reading his letter, Elizabeth sees she hasn't been acting any better than he has, perhaps worse. Lady Catherine shows up in London to see and tell Darcy her expectations for him and her daughter. She really does not have a back to Longbourn clue, but figures it might be Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Did she accomplish any thing her first visit, well no? When she goes back to London, Darcy is in for another tongue lashing. So off she goes again to confront Elizabeth, this time offering to pay her money, give each of her sisters' money for a dowry, and purchase a house for her mother when Mr. Bennet dies. Naturally Elizabeth refuses again to give Darcy's aunt what she wants. Lady Catherine returns to London to tell him how impertinent she is and what she said, but if anything came from her tirades, it was it gave Darcy a chance to hope for the future. Enjoyed the dreams Darcy was having making him wish for Elizabeth for real. I liked that Hunsford didn't happen, but Colonel Fitzwilliam's mouth said it all so Darcy didn't propose until Jane and Bingley's wedding. Words were not as harsh this time, and she realizes that she never gave him a chance to right his wrong. Really enjoyed not having to read much about Caroline, the woman sets my teeth on edge! Look forward to reading the next two books of this series.
Enjoyed this story very much. The argument and letter writing took place in Hertfordshire after Jane and Bingley's wedding. After reading his letter, Elizabeth sees she hasn't been acting any better than he has, perhaps worse. Lady Catherine shows up in London to see and tell Darcy her expectations for him and her daughter. She really does not have a back to Longbourn clue, but figures it might be Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Did she accomplish any thing her first visit, well no? When she goes back to London, Darcy is in for another tongue lashing. So off she goes again to confront Elizabeth, this time offering to pay her money, give each of her sisters' money for a dowry, and purchase a house for her mother when Mr. Bennet dies. Naturally Elizabeth refuses again to give Darcy's aunt what she wants. Lady Catherine returns to London to tell him how impertinent she is and what she said, but if anything came from her tirades, it was it gave Darcy a chance to hope for the future. Enjoyed the dreams Darcy was having making him wish for Elizabeth for real. I liked that Hunsford didn't happen, but Colonel Fitzwilliam's mouth said it all so Darcy didn't propose until Jane and Bingley's wedding. Words were not as harsh this time, and she realizes that she never gave him a chance to right his wrong. Really enjoyed not having to read much about Caroline, the woman sets my teeth on edge! Look forward to reading the next two books of this series.
July 29, 2016
Cute short story. The plot is driven by Lady Catherine, who emerges from Rosings frequently. She decides it's time to force Darcy's marriage to her daughter Anne and must intervene when he refuses because he hopes to marry someone else, and then intervenes again when she hears gossip from Mr. Collins about the Bennet family.
The story actually begins when Darcy and Elizabeth are both in Kent. Darcy has every intention of proposing to her but learns from Colonel Fitzwilliam that she is upset with him for separating Bingley from Jane. Darcy realizes that she will refuse him, so he never asks. Imagine Elizabeth's amazement, then, when Lady C confronts her and demands a promise not to marry Darcy, as Elizabeth still believes he dislikes her.
I'm glad this isn't a plot where Colonel Fitzwilliam is a spy, because the man just doesn't know when to shut up! And I kept hearing the Wicked Witch music from the Wizard of Oz in my head whenever Lady C is on the move.
I don't object when a few phrases pulled from Jane Austen's book appear here and there, but there are too many of them, and they tend to be long passages. This includes the iconic description of the Pemberley grounds, which Darcy says to Elizabeth during the HEA portion of the book.
Generally, though, this is a nice, light, quick read.
The story actually begins when Darcy and Elizabeth are both in Kent. Darcy has every intention of proposing to her but learns from Colonel Fitzwilliam that she is upset with him for separating Bingley from Jane. Darcy realizes that she will refuse him, so he never asks. Imagine Elizabeth's amazement, then, when Lady C confronts her and demands a promise not to marry Darcy, as Elizabeth still believes he dislikes her.
I'm glad this isn't a plot where Colonel Fitzwilliam is a spy, because the man just doesn't know when to shut up! And I kept hearing the Wicked Witch music from the Wizard of Oz in my head whenever Lady C is on the move.
I don't object when a few phrases pulled from Jane Austen's book appear here and there, but there are too many of them, and they tend to be long passages. This includes the iconic description of the Pemberley grounds, which Darcy says to Elizabeth during the HEA portion of the book.
Generally, though, this is a nice, light, quick read.
July 15, 2016
This variation is unique as it did not take a different path but rather rearranged it. It was short, sweet and an easy read.
April 19, 2019
Too much Lady Catherine
This book is well written and eventually satisfying. However, Lady Catherine appears to be the sole catalyst for every important encounter between Elizabeth and Darcy. It's not very romantic that Darcy always gets the push he needs to pursue Elizabeth, from his caustic and interfering aunt. It almost seems as if nothing would ever happen without her.
Colonel Fitzwilliam is kind of a ninny in this story, blabbing when he shouldn't,and apparently not very trustworthy. Elizabeth is very harsh on Darcy for most of the story. She has a way too sudden change of heart near the end, so her attachment isn't very convincing. Because it's such a short story, and because there is a sequel book, the ending comes rather abruptly as soon as ODC mend their fences.
I recommend it with reservations.
This book is well written and eventually satisfying. However, Lady Catherine appears to be the sole catalyst for every important encounter between Elizabeth and Darcy. It's not very romantic that Darcy always gets the push he needs to pursue Elizabeth, from his caustic and interfering aunt. It almost seems as if nothing would ever happen without her.
Colonel Fitzwilliam is kind of a ninny in this story, blabbing when he shouldn't,and apparently not very trustworthy. Elizabeth is very harsh on Darcy for most of the story. She has a way too sudden change of heart near the end, so her attachment isn't very convincing. Because it's such a short story, and because there is a sequel book, the ending comes rather abruptly as soon as ODC mend their fences.
I recommend it with reservations.
August 22, 2016
This is a short, quick read packed full of twists and turns. Starting at Rosings Darcy is tipped off to Lizzy's knowledge of his involvement in separating Jane & Bingley he wisely defers his proposal and reunites Mr. Bingley with his true love. But before the nuptials can come off Lady Catherine is hieing herself to Longbourn to confront Elizabeth regarding her interest in Fitzwilliam Darcy.. of which there is none. After Jane's wedding Darcy does a sufficient job of bollocking up a proposal that Lizzy of course rejects and he delivers his letter but in this case only about Wickham.
the rest of the P&P conflicts play out minus Lizzy's trip to Pemberley. Until we reach our HEA
the rest of the P&P conflicts play out minus Lizzy's trip to Pemberley. Until we reach our HEA
August 12, 2016
Short story that takes P&P in a different direction - What if Darcy found out Elizabeth hated him due to his interference with Bingley & Jane at Hunsford and was saved from making a disastrous proposal.. He is able to correct thing but he can't deal with any other offenses Elizabeth has against him as he is not aware of them... We still get Lady Catherine's interference, we still get Wickham pursuing Lydia, but I found the novel lacking in that Darcy is not trying to become a better man.. in essentials he is always the same but Elizabeth falls for him based on his letter only which seems odd cause in the original his behavior at Pemberley and towards her family changes her opinion.
March 8, 2017
This was a sweet story. There was angst but no failed proposal thought Darcy knew Elizabeth's feelings and thus did not propose. I enjoyed the story. Would have liked a longer ending, it seemed abrupt to me.
January 31, 2024
Darcy didn't propose at Hunsford because the colonel told him that Elizabeth was mad about Bingley before she could. Jane and Bingley are reunited and he comes to the wedding. He tells Lady Catherine that he's not going to marry Anne and has an interest in someone that Lady C already knows. So of course Lady C thinks of Elizabeth (he's surprised although it was a pretty heavy hint). Lady Catherine confronts Elizabeth and Darcy several times here and has to learn to brook disappointment.
Rereading: I picked up a boxed set by P.O. Dixon (Forever, for always, for love) and was a bit confused, didn't realize at first that I have already read and reviewed this. Not sure if Eden Forster is a guest star or another pen name for the same author? The cover says, "featuring Eden Forster" but it's not marked in the table of contents or the story headings which story they wrote, I only learned it from the blurb. The "about the author" section in the book only mentions Dixon, the acknowledgments section refers to "me" and not "us", and the copyright section in the end only mentions Dixon as well. Eden Forster's bio on Amazon says they also publish as Elle Forster but Elle Forster titles don't seem to be available anymore. I don't know.
Rereading: I picked up a boxed set by P.O. Dixon (Forever, for always, for love) and was a bit confused, didn't realize at first that I have already read and reviewed this. Not sure if Eden Forster is a guest star or another pen name for the same author? The cover says, "featuring Eden Forster" but it's not marked in the table of contents or the story headings which story they wrote, I only learned it from the blurb. The "about the author" section in the book only mentions Dixon, the acknowledgments section refers to "me" and not "us", and the copyright section in the end only mentions Dixon as well. Eden Forster's bio on Amazon says they also publish as Elle Forster but Elle Forster titles don't seem to be available anymore. I don't know.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews