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Darcy vs. Bennet: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Elizabeth Bennet is drawn to a handsome, mysterious man she meets at a masquerade ball. However, she gives up all hope for a future with him when she learns he is the son of George Darcy, the man who ruined her father’s life. Despite her father’s demand that she avoid the younger Darcy, when he appears in Hertfordshire Elizabeth cannot stop thinking about him, or seeking him out, or welcoming his kisses….
Fitzwilliam Darcy has struggled to carve out a life independent from his father’s vindictive temperament and domineering ways, although the elder Darcy still controls the purse strings. After meeting Elizabeth Bennet, Darcy cannot imagine marrying anyone else, even though his father despises her family. More than anything he wants to make her his wife, but doing so would mean sacrificing everything else….
Fitzwilliam Darcy has struggled to carve out a life independent from his father’s vindictive temperament and domineering ways, although the elder Darcy still controls the purse strings. After meeting Elizabeth Bennet, Darcy cannot imagine marrying anyone else, even though his father despises her family. More than anything he wants to make her his wife, but doing so would mean sacrificing everything else….
266 pages, Paperback
Published March 25, 2016
63 people are currently reading
585 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Kincaid
20 books205 followersVictoria has a Ph.D. in English literature and has taught composition to unwilling college students. Today she teaches business writing to willing office professionals and tries to give voice to the demanding cast of characters in her head.
She lives in Virginia with an overly affectionate cat, two children who are learning how much fun Austen’s characters can be, and a husband who fortunately is not jealous of Mr. Darcy. A lifelong Austen fan, Victoria has read more Jane Austen variations and sequels than she can count – and confesses to an extreme partiality for the Colin Firth miniseries version of Pride and Prejudice.
Visit her at www. victoriakincaid. com
She lives in Virginia with an overly affectionate cat, two children who are learning how much fun Austen’s characters can be, and a husband who fortunately is not jealous of Mr. Darcy. A lifelong Austen fan, Victoria has read more Jane Austen variations and sequels than she can count – and confesses to an extreme partiality for the Colin Firth miniseries version of Pride and Prejudice.
Visit her at www. victoriakincaid. com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
May 15, 2016
What a romantic, heart-rending, angst-filled version of Pride and Prejudice this is!
I was so pleased to win this in a giveaway lottery from the author's blog site, because it's a book I've really been looking forward to reading. Anyone who has read the description knows that this is a mashup between P&P and Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Rather than an ages-old feud with the initial argument long forgotten, this is a very personal one between the senior Mr. Darcy, who is still very much alive, and Mr. Bennet. The offenses leading to the enmity are rather one-sided, as Thomas Bennet, without just cause, has been a victim of George Darcy's misuse of wealth and power.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is at odds with his father, too, and has done his best to live honorably, separating himself as much as possible from his father's unprincipled lifestyle. When he meets an intelligent, witty, beautiful woman at a masquerade ball, he falls in love very quickly, not realizing that she is Elizabeth Bennet, daughter of his father's most hated enemy. Upon overhearing his name, she slips away without revealing her identity, crushed that this man to whom she feels so attracted is George Darcy's son.
Two years later, William and Elizabeth still haven't forgotten each other. He finally finds her at the Meryton assembly and is shocked to learn who she is. He knows that he cannot pursue his heart's desire without risking bringing his father's fury down on himself and Elizabeth. The two do their best to pretend disinterest, fighting their deep-seated desires to leap into the other's arms.
Circumstances continue to bring the two together as they try to keep their enthrallment a secret. They have enough private meetings to be assured that their feelings are mutual. Every parting causes them anguish, often believing they won't ever be together again. The whole "forbidden fruit" angle adds to their sense of yearning and sensual hunger and causes many steamy embraces and declarations.
There is no duel with a "Tybalt" for this "Romeo," but there is George Wickham, who sits in George Darcy's pocket. His actions lead to the suspense-filled rising action and, indirectly, to the turning point in the book. Thankfully, the story doesn't end in a double suicide for the star-crossed lovers!
The plot generally follows the blueprint of P&P, with scenes at Longbourn/Netherfield, Rosings/Hunsford, Lambton/Pemberley, and London, and it features all characters in their usual roles as well as the addition of the villainous George Darcy. The writing is descriptive and emotionally evocative. Ms. Kincaid has done a marvelous job of meshing the stories of these two famous literary couples.
I was so pleased to win this in a giveaway lottery from the author's blog site, because it's a book I've really been looking forward to reading. Anyone who has read the description knows that this is a mashup between P&P and Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Rather than an ages-old feud with the initial argument long forgotten, this is a very personal one between the senior Mr. Darcy, who is still very much alive, and Mr. Bennet. The offenses leading to the enmity are rather one-sided, as Thomas Bennet, without just cause, has been a victim of George Darcy's misuse of wealth and power.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is at odds with his father, too, and has done his best to live honorably, separating himself as much as possible from his father's unprincipled lifestyle. When he meets an intelligent, witty, beautiful woman at a masquerade ball, he falls in love very quickly, not realizing that she is Elizabeth Bennet, daughter of his father's most hated enemy. Upon overhearing his name, she slips away without revealing her identity, crushed that this man to whom she feels so attracted is George Darcy's son.
Two years later, William and Elizabeth still haven't forgotten each other. He finally finds her at the Meryton assembly and is shocked to learn who she is. He knows that he cannot pursue his heart's desire without risking bringing his father's fury down on himself and Elizabeth. The two do their best to pretend disinterest, fighting their deep-seated desires to leap into the other's arms.
Circumstances continue to bring the two together as they try to keep their enthrallment a secret. They have enough private meetings to be assured that their feelings are mutual. Every parting causes them anguish, often believing they won't ever be together again. The whole "forbidden fruit" angle adds to their sense of yearning and sensual hunger and causes many steamy embraces and declarations.
There is no duel with a "Tybalt" for this "Romeo," but there is George Wickham, who sits in George Darcy's pocket. His actions lead to the suspense-filled rising action and, indirectly, to the turning point in the book. Thankfully, the story doesn't end in a double suicide for the star-crossed lovers!
The plot generally follows the blueprint of P&P, with scenes at Longbourn/Netherfield, Rosings/Hunsford, Lambton/Pemberley, and London, and it features all characters in their usual roles as well as the addition of the villainous George Darcy. The writing is descriptive and emotionally evocative. Ms. Kincaid has done a marvelous job of meshing the stories of these two famous literary couples.
May 21, 2016
I was very interested to hear about Victoria Kincaid’s latest ‘Pride & Prejudice’ variation, 'Darcy vs. Bennet', hearing that it had a touch of the Romeo and Juliet about it. Assured of a happy ending, I was pleased to give it a go!
Mr Darcy and Elizabeth first meet at a masquerade and it’s a case of love at first sight. Mr Darcy here is not the master of Pemberley and hence the master of his own destiny. His father is very much alive and a very difficult man. Darcy doesn’t wish to marry his cousin Anne, and has been given three years during which he is expected to find a suitable wife. But the problem is, all the ladies he meets are very much the same, until he meets and converses with a lady he only knows as Elizabeth:
‘He found himself envisioning a future with this woman although he knew nothing of her family or situation. Her family might be objectionable, or she might already be promised in marriage.’
Elizabeth wasn’t invited to the masquerade; she was staying with a neighbour of the family holding the event, and her friend was determined to infiltrate the ball hoping for a dance with the eldest son of the family. Being abandoned by her friend, Elizabeth meets ‘Will’, whom she likes very much:
‘What she could see of his face suggested he was quite handsome. He was gentlemanly and solicitous in his manners. But what most struck Elizabeth was that the conversation between them flowed so effortlessly; it was as if they had known each other for years rather than minutes.’
Elizabeth later finds out Darcy’s name and realises that he is a member of the Darcy family from Derbyshire. Her father has been wronged by Mr Darcy senior in a very real and lasting way so Elizabeth knows that there is absolutely no possibility of a future in a relationship with Darcy. She doesn’t think she will ever see him again, but lo and behold; when Mr Bingley comes to Meryton he brings with him his friend, Mr Darcy, who accompanies him to the Meryton Assembly.
‘He was here. There was no doubt it was him. In the two years since the masquerade ball, he had constantly invaded her thoughts. She could not help comparing every man she encountered to “William”.’
Darcy recognises his ‘Elizabeth’ as one of Mr Bennet’s daughters. Although he is overjoyed to find her, there is a spy in their midst. Mr Hurst is one of Mr Darcy senior’s friends, and if Fitzwilliam shows any interest in these ladies it will be reported. The elder Mr Darcy is of a vindictive disposition, so things must be kept very strictly secret for Elizabeth’s own safety. Therefore, the man to whom any disguise must be thought abhorrent has to conceal his true feelings:
‘He must avoid even the slightest hint of partiality toward Elizabeth. Anything he said would be repeated to his father.
“You are dancing with the only pretty woman in the room.” Darcy hoped he could be forgiven for uttering such sacrilege.’
Mr Darcy senior is a truly awful character. Luckily he is off-page for much of the novel because he’s just so horrible, a real villainous character with no redeeming features! He is very controlling too, and it’s an unusual change in a variation, because Darcy is stripped of so much of his power. This is one of his defining features. He is the man who, in P&P, Elizabeth talks about using the following words:
“I do not know any body who seems more to enjoy the power of doing what he likes than Mr. Darcy” ‘Pride & Prejudice’ by Jane Austen
This variation sees a very big change to the dynamic between Darcy and Elizabeth. In P&P the difficulties between them are all caused by themselves, their pride and prejudices and they both grow as characters. Here, there is nothing in their own characters that really change. The thing keeping them apart is the feud between their fathers. This disguise element of the story gave us a chance to see many of the things that Darcy said in ‘Pride & Prejudice’, but here he isn’t saying them in an effort to convince himself that he doesn’t admire Elizabeth, but to convince others, so that his feelings aren’t passed back to his father. This gave more of a flavour of P&P to the variation, which I liked as Darcy’s character seems quite different from canon. All his foot in mouth moments and prideful utterances are diversions from his true feelings.
One of the things I usually enjoy in this author’s stories is the humour, and this book was no exception. There were some quite funny passages relating to Darcy’s reflections and his attempts to divert attention away from his attraction to Elizabeth:
>
‘What else could he say? “And her hair...”
Miss Bingley looked bewildered, as well she might. Elizabeth’s hair was glorious. “It is...extremely...copious.”
There is a lot of kissing in this book. In fact, for me there was a bit too much because although when Elizabeth and Darcy first meet in this story he feels a connection to her based on her personality as well as her looks they aren’t able to talk together much in society due to the family feud. I would have liked for more of their time together alone to have been spent actually getting to know one another rather than giving in to their attraction toward each other. For me, one of the tragic aspects of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ is that their love is based primarily in their physical attraction, because they barely know one another. In real life such a marriage might well end very unhappily even without tombs and poison! However, I accept that I am probably in the small minority who might prefer more talk and less action in a romance! Please note that when I say that there are kissing scenes I mean just that, there are no sex scenes in this story, which I know is important to be sure of for some readers.
With such a villain as the elder Mr Darcy, there is plenty of excitement in the story, as Darcy is surrounded by spies and he knows that his father is ruthless in his methods. Elizabeth’s father is highly prejudiced toward Darcy, and keen to protect all his daughters from any member of the Darcy family, so there are some potentially immovable obstacles in between our dear couple and their happy ever after. It was a very entertaining journey! I enjoyed reading ‘Darcy vs. Bennet’ and I’d rate it as a four star read.
*I was provided an ebook of this story by the author for my honest review.
Mr Darcy and Elizabeth first meet at a masquerade and it’s a case of love at first sight. Mr Darcy here is not the master of Pemberley and hence the master of his own destiny. His father is very much alive and a very difficult man. Darcy doesn’t wish to marry his cousin Anne, and has been given three years during which he is expected to find a suitable wife. But the problem is, all the ladies he meets are very much the same, until he meets and converses with a lady he only knows as Elizabeth:
‘He found himself envisioning a future with this woman although he knew nothing of her family or situation. Her family might be objectionable, or she might already be promised in marriage.’
Elizabeth wasn’t invited to the masquerade; she was staying with a neighbour of the family holding the event, and her friend was determined to infiltrate the ball hoping for a dance with the eldest son of the family. Being abandoned by her friend, Elizabeth meets ‘Will’, whom she likes very much:
‘What she could see of his face suggested he was quite handsome. He was gentlemanly and solicitous in his manners. But what most struck Elizabeth was that the conversation between them flowed so effortlessly; it was as if they had known each other for years rather than minutes.’
Elizabeth later finds out Darcy’s name and realises that he is a member of the Darcy family from Derbyshire. Her father has been wronged by Mr Darcy senior in a very real and lasting way so Elizabeth knows that there is absolutely no possibility of a future in a relationship with Darcy. She doesn’t think she will ever see him again, but lo and behold; when Mr Bingley comes to Meryton he brings with him his friend, Mr Darcy, who accompanies him to the Meryton Assembly.
‘He was here. There was no doubt it was him. In the two years since the masquerade ball, he had constantly invaded her thoughts. She could not help comparing every man she encountered to “William”.’
Darcy recognises his ‘Elizabeth’ as one of Mr Bennet’s daughters. Although he is overjoyed to find her, there is a spy in their midst. Mr Hurst is one of Mr Darcy senior’s friends, and if Fitzwilliam shows any interest in these ladies it will be reported. The elder Mr Darcy is of a vindictive disposition, so things must be kept very strictly secret for Elizabeth’s own safety. Therefore, the man to whom any disguise must be thought abhorrent has to conceal his true feelings:
‘He must avoid even the slightest hint of partiality toward Elizabeth. Anything he said would be repeated to his father.
“You are dancing with the only pretty woman in the room.” Darcy hoped he could be forgiven for uttering such sacrilege.’
Mr Darcy senior is a truly awful character. Luckily he is off-page for much of the novel because he’s just so horrible, a real villainous character with no redeeming features! He is very controlling too, and it’s an unusual change in a variation, because Darcy is stripped of so much of his power. This is one of his defining features. He is the man who, in P&P, Elizabeth talks about using the following words:
“I do not know any body who seems more to enjoy the power of doing what he likes than Mr. Darcy” ‘Pride & Prejudice’ by Jane Austen
This variation sees a very big change to the dynamic between Darcy and Elizabeth. In P&P the difficulties between them are all caused by themselves, their pride and prejudices and they both grow as characters. Here, there is nothing in their own characters that really change. The thing keeping them apart is the feud between their fathers. This disguise element of the story gave us a chance to see many of the things that Darcy said in ‘Pride & Prejudice’, but here he isn’t saying them in an effort to convince himself that he doesn’t admire Elizabeth, but to convince others, so that his feelings aren’t passed back to his father. This gave more of a flavour of P&P to the variation, which I liked as Darcy’s character seems quite different from canon. All his foot in mouth moments and prideful utterances are diversions from his true feelings.
One of the things I usually enjoy in this author’s stories is the humour, and this book was no exception. There were some quite funny passages relating to Darcy’s reflections and his attempts to divert attention away from his attraction to Elizabeth:
>
‘What else could he say? “And her hair...”
Miss Bingley looked bewildered, as well she might. Elizabeth’s hair was glorious. “It is...extremely...copious.”
There is a lot of kissing in this book. In fact, for me there was a bit too much because although when Elizabeth and Darcy first meet in this story he feels a connection to her based on her personality as well as her looks they aren’t able to talk together much in society due to the family feud. I would have liked for more of their time together alone to have been spent actually getting to know one another rather than giving in to their attraction toward each other. For me, one of the tragic aspects of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ is that their love is based primarily in their physical attraction, because they barely know one another. In real life such a marriage might well end very unhappily even without tombs and poison! However, I accept that I am probably in the small minority who might prefer more talk and less action in a romance! Please note that when I say that there are kissing scenes I mean just that, there are no sex scenes in this story, which I know is important to be sure of for some readers.
With such a villain as the elder Mr Darcy, there is plenty of excitement in the story, as Darcy is surrounded by spies and he knows that his father is ruthless in his methods. Elizabeth’s father is highly prejudiced toward Darcy, and keen to protect all his daughters from any member of the Darcy family, so there are some potentially immovable obstacles in between our dear couple and their happy ever after. It was a very entertaining journey! I enjoyed reading ‘Darcy vs. Bennet’ and I’d rate it as a four star read.
*I was provided an ebook of this story by the author for my honest review.
October 5, 2019
4.5 stars
Even with this only being 207 pages long I enjoyed the tale and rarely set my kindle down as I had to read how matters resolved themselves. Although two reviews on Amazon have the SPOILING effect of informing readers of just how matters are settled I will join the one in saying that event was not much of a surprise. But to other members of the Darcy and Bennet families in our novel it was and made their HEA occur only a little more distant into the future.
A large part of what enthralled me about this book was the fact that Darcy and Elizabeth meet without introduction at a masquerade ball, just as he is considering departing as all the guests are "the same old, same old"! He has been searching for wife and is under orders from his controlling and vindictive father to do it within 3 years or yield to the demand that he marry his cousin, Anne. As Darcy notices a young lady in a pale yellow gown, and even as he is drawn to her, he determines that he does not know her. He has looked over the figures, the hair coloring and listened to the voices of all in attendance and resolves he has not met her. Unbelievably....our Darcy asks a stranger to dance. Pursuant conversation urges him to ask her name but she is a party crasher and as such is wise enough to only reveal her Christian name. He must at one point interrupt their conversation as he discovers his sister, Georgiana, who is not yet out, has also "crashed the party". Then only a short time later, as Elizabeth sends him off with an excuse that she desires refreshment in order to allow her to sneak out of the ball before the midnight unveiling of masks, Elizabeth comes upon that same sister in a compromising situation. She intervenes, Darcy returns and upon his confronting of "you-know-who" Elizabeth hears him use his surname and knows that this man is part and parcel of her father's most hated and reviled enemy’s family. Their acquaintance can never be!
Much of this tale is concerning the feelings these two (like Romeo and Juliet) must conceal due to their families renowned hatred of each other. And, yet as days, months and even years pass, each has thoughts and dreams of the other. Now canon comes to bear. The Meryton Assembly is at hand. But now Elizabeth with her foreknowledge and Darcy with his shockingly just acquired learning of the other's identity must force a demeanor of disdain to prevent mayhem on the dance floor...and as our tale continues, in Hertfortshire, Kent, London and Pemberley.
Yes, Collins proposes and you will find much satisfaction in that scene. Again Darcy has an opportunity to make his Hunsford proposal. Does he blunder so badly? But ODC has to guard not only their words but also every act, every glance and facial expression so as to prevent both fathers from learning of their warm feeling towards the other. It is a struggle and you will be amused at how each questions if the other has changed their opinion when their thespian skills are so convincing. You will also hold your breath when you read of just who is suspect in sending tales of Darcy's behaviors back to his father, George Darcy. Few are in on the secret but in the end it is a matter of an old tale as in canon and a blackmail situation which bring all this to a climax.
In reading of George Darcy’s history with Thomas Bennet one can only consider that the former man is a true cad, a man with no honor. This is not a man who imparts to Darcy proper behaviors, morals or how to treat servants, tenants and acquaintances.
Others have said that this story was rushed at the end. That could be seen as true but for me I was satisfied with the settling of affairs in this family feud.
I received an Audible copy of this book and listened to it while walking from 10-1-19 to 10-5-19.
Even with this only being 207 pages long I enjoyed the tale and rarely set my kindle down as I had to read how matters resolved themselves. Although two reviews on Amazon have the SPOILING effect of informing readers of just how matters are settled I will join the one in saying that event was not much of a surprise. But to other members of the Darcy and Bennet families in our novel it was and made their HEA occur only a little more distant into the future.
A large part of what enthralled me about this book was the fact that Darcy and Elizabeth meet without introduction at a masquerade ball, just as he is considering departing as all the guests are "the same old, same old"! He has been searching for wife and is under orders from his controlling and vindictive father to do it within 3 years or yield to the demand that he marry his cousin, Anne. As Darcy notices a young lady in a pale yellow gown, and even as he is drawn to her, he determines that he does not know her. He has looked over the figures, the hair coloring and listened to the voices of all in attendance and resolves he has not met her. Unbelievably....our Darcy asks a stranger to dance. Pursuant conversation urges him to ask her name but she is a party crasher and as such is wise enough to only reveal her Christian name. He must at one point interrupt their conversation as he discovers his sister, Georgiana, who is not yet out, has also "crashed the party". Then only a short time later, as Elizabeth sends him off with an excuse that she desires refreshment in order to allow her to sneak out of the ball before the midnight unveiling of masks, Elizabeth comes upon that same sister in a compromising situation. She intervenes, Darcy returns and upon his confronting of "you-know-who" Elizabeth hears him use his surname and knows that this man is part and parcel of her father's most hated and reviled enemy’s family. Their acquaintance can never be!
Much of this tale is concerning the feelings these two (like Romeo and Juliet) must conceal due to their families renowned hatred of each other. And, yet as days, months and even years pass, each has thoughts and dreams of the other. Now canon comes to bear. The Meryton Assembly is at hand. But now Elizabeth with her foreknowledge and Darcy with his shockingly just acquired learning of the other's identity must force a demeanor of disdain to prevent mayhem on the dance floor...and as our tale continues, in Hertfortshire, Kent, London and Pemberley.
Yes, Collins proposes and you will find much satisfaction in that scene. Again Darcy has an opportunity to make his Hunsford proposal. Does he blunder so badly? But ODC has to guard not only their words but also every act, every glance and facial expression so as to prevent both fathers from learning of their warm feeling towards the other. It is a struggle and you will be amused at how each questions if the other has changed their opinion when their thespian skills are so convincing. You will also hold your breath when you read of just who is suspect in sending tales of Darcy's behaviors back to his father, George Darcy. Few are in on the secret but in the end it is a matter of an old tale as in canon and a blackmail situation which bring all this to a climax.
In reading of George Darcy’s history with Thomas Bennet one can only consider that the former man is a true cad, a man with no honor. This is not a man who imparts to Darcy proper behaviors, morals or how to treat servants, tenants and acquaintances.
Others have said that this story was rushed at the end. That could be seen as true but for me I was satisfied with the settling of affairs in this family feud.
I received an Audible copy of this book and listened to it while walking from 10-1-19 to 10-5-19.
July 23, 2016
Dear reader,
This delightful story centres around the very romantic,utterly endearing F.Darcy's quest to marry Elizabeth,the beguiling,witty young lady he encounters at a masquerade ball.
While he remains unaware of her identify,she soon learns his and is reminded of the animosity that exists between the two families.Before fleeing, she inadvertently saves Georgiana from Wickham's devious attempts to compromise her,thus leaving a very relieved Georgiania but a rather confused Darcy.
Two years later they meet,but the bad blood that exists between their parents rears its ugly head and threatens to keep them apart.
Unable and unwilling to deny themselves the promise of a loving relationship,Darcy attempts to pretend to the works at large that he feels nothing but disdain and contempt for the Bennet family.
Threatened by his father,the contemptible George Darcy, with the prospect of losing his allowance if he does not marry within a certain timeframe,Darcy is faced with the prospect of contemplating marrying for love or marrying to obey the wishes of a man
who has neither shown him respect or love in the course of his life.
What will Darcy choose,will Elizabeth allow him to make such a huge sacrifice in the face of another,more life changing threat from George,and what will befall our beloved couple if they follow their hearts' desire and wed?
Yes,such are the questions you will ponder as you race through this delightful,romantic story.
I recommend this to all lovers of a truly romantic nature! The sacrifice Darcy is willing to make for the love of a partner,wife and friend makes me fall in love with the guy all over again!! Sigh!
This delightful story centres around the very romantic,utterly endearing F.Darcy's quest to marry Elizabeth,the beguiling,witty young lady he encounters at a masquerade ball.
While he remains unaware of her identify,she soon learns his and is reminded of the animosity that exists between the two families.Before fleeing, she inadvertently saves Georgiana from Wickham's devious attempts to compromise her,thus leaving a very relieved Georgiania but a rather confused Darcy.
Two years later they meet,but the bad blood that exists between their parents rears its ugly head and threatens to keep them apart.
Unable and unwilling to deny themselves the promise of a loving relationship,Darcy attempts to pretend to the works at large that he feels nothing but disdain and contempt for the Bennet family.
Threatened by his father,the contemptible George Darcy, with the prospect of losing his allowance if he does not marry within a certain timeframe,Darcy is faced with the prospect of contemplating marrying for love or marrying to obey the wishes of a man
who has neither shown him respect or love in the course of his life.
What will Darcy choose,will Elizabeth allow him to make such a huge sacrifice in the face of another,more life changing threat from George,and what will befall our beloved couple if they follow their hearts' desire and wed?
Yes,such are the questions you will ponder as you race through this delightful,romantic story.
I recommend this to all lovers of a truly romantic nature! The sacrifice Darcy is willing to make for the love of a partner,wife and friend makes me fall in love with the guy all over again!! Sigh!
May 21, 2016
The Montagues and Capulets have nothing on this pair of feuding families. And then two of the children had to fall in love...
I was curious. Curiosity sparks enthusiasm for many of my reading experiences particularly when an author takes an old classic and lets their creativity fly. What if... what if Darcy and Elizabeth's families were already introduced in the older generation? What if Darcy's father was still alive, the villain of the piece, and Darcy wasn't an independent man of means in his own right? Ah see... does your curiosity rise, too?
It all began with a masquerade. Elizabeth and her friend slip into the party at the neighboring estate and Elizabeth encounters a handsome man who is all she could dream of and that same man, Fitzwilliam Darcy, was equally as captivated. It is a magical evening for them both. Lizzy even helps Darcy's little sister out of situation, but then she hears the family name of the siblings and knows that all connection must end. The children of her father's hate rival. And Darcy never learns the name of the lovely lady he was falling for before she slips away into the night.
Two years later, Darcy enters Elizabeth's neighborhood. He encounters Elizabeth at a local assembly and is forced to act the most important role of his life to fool his father's watchers who always keep tabs on him. He must pretend to insult and look down on the woman of his dreams. And Elizabeth, with her family watching must do the same. Though under it all, their yearning toward each other is stronger than ever. Both are affected by the caprice of fate. Is there no hope of a chance?
The author struck the right tone when blending Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet with Austen's Pride & Prejudice for a mash up. The scale was most definitely tipped more toward Austen's work, but there was a quality of a Shakespearean play to it as well. The story flows like a play in fact. The addition of Darcy's villainous father was probably the most obvious example for the Shakespeare influence. What this character set in motion affected the lives of every other character in the story and he felt like he belonged to the playwright's creation more than Austen.
While I marveled at Fitzwilliam Darcy having such a parent, I also found the dynamics of how constricting it was to be the son and heir of such a man changed Darcy's background significantly. Darcy might have lived in luxurious surroundings, be of an independent age, be the most eligible bachelor of Society, but at the end of the day, he is utterly dependent on his father for an allowance and a home. Darcy's principled character and loving protective nature are impressive in the light of the morally bankrupt man who should be the main influence in his life. I found 'sketching the characters' of the cast of this book as fascinating as the actual story line.
Though there is a definite air of despondency around Darcy and Elizabeth because they think their growing love has no chance with their father's hating each other so much, I was grateful that the author kept that on just the right side of too much angst. It was fun watching the pair act out their roles so that the big scenes from the original story took on a new significance because it is play acting. When Darcy says, 'she is not handsome enough to tempt me' at the assembly, Elizabeth is aware he is play acting for her family and his father's spies, the Hursts (yep, for those familiar, that will cause a laugh or two). Though, they both act so well that at times there is a seed of doubt that the insults and actions are real only later to get private moments to reassure each other.
And that brings me to say that it was exciting to see how familiar characters would play out their roles with their personalities in tact. Georgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam have more scene time since they are introduced early on in the story. Bingley wanted smacking for nearly losing his chance with Jane because he needed to grow a spine. I thought it was great fun to watch Darcy's father and Lady Catherine clash in the Rosings Park scene. It's rare that I will cheer on Lady C, but she was magnificent. But the one that made me giggle snort was Darcy Senior delivering a set down to the odious Caroline Bingley. He's the bad guy, but even bad guys have their moments.
The last series of scenes were a build up of tension and pace as Darcy and Elizabeth worked to thwart his father's plotting. Like watching the end of a Checkers match. I was flipping pages pretty fast to see if they would pull it off.
This is one that it is best read by those who have read Austen's P&P or at least watched a movie adaption. Several times in the story, I relied more on my previous knowledge to fill things in. For example, Mr. Collins is suddenly on the scene without being introduced performing his usual role. So, it's not that others can't enjoy this story or engage with it, I just feel it would be even better to have the older story in mind to appreciate it better.
In summary, this was a delight and a story that I would recommend particularly for JAFF and Austenesque lovers who enjoy a dash of Shakespeare to make it interesting. This is a new situation for Darcy and somewhat for Elizabeth and well worth the curious interest I felt in the beginning.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was curious. Curiosity sparks enthusiasm for many of my reading experiences particularly when an author takes an old classic and lets their creativity fly. What if... what if Darcy and Elizabeth's families were already introduced in the older generation? What if Darcy's father was still alive, the villain of the piece, and Darcy wasn't an independent man of means in his own right? Ah see... does your curiosity rise, too?
It all began with a masquerade. Elizabeth and her friend slip into the party at the neighboring estate and Elizabeth encounters a handsome man who is all she could dream of and that same man, Fitzwilliam Darcy, was equally as captivated. It is a magical evening for them both. Lizzy even helps Darcy's little sister out of situation, but then she hears the family name of the siblings and knows that all connection must end. The children of her father's hate rival. And Darcy never learns the name of the lovely lady he was falling for before she slips away into the night.
Two years later, Darcy enters Elizabeth's neighborhood. He encounters Elizabeth at a local assembly and is forced to act the most important role of his life to fool his father's watchers who always keep tabs on him. He must pretend to insult and look down on the woman of his dreams. And Elizabeth, with her family watching must do the same. Though under it all, their yearning toward each other is stronger than ever. Both are affected by the caprice of fate. Is there no hope of a chance?
The author struck the right tone when blending Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet with Austen's Pride & Prejudice for a mash up. The scale was most definitely tipped more toward Austen's work, but there was a quality of a Shakespearean play to it as well. The story flows like a play in fact. The addition of Darcy's villainous father was probably the most obvious example for the Shakespeare influence. What this character set in motion affected the lives of every other character in the story and he felt like he belonged to the playwright's creation more than Austen.
While I marveled at Fitzwilliam Darcy having such a parent, I also found the dynamics of how constricting it was to be the son and heir of such a man changed Darcy's background significantly. Darcy might have lived in luxurious surroundings, be of an independent age, be the most eligible bachelor of Society, but at the end of the day, he is utterly dependent on his father for an allowance and a home. Darcy's principled character and loving protective nature are impressive in the light of the morally bankrupt man who should be the main influence in his life. I found 'sketching the characters' of the cast of this book as fascinating as the actual story line.
Though there is a definite air of despondency around Darcy and Elizabeth because they think their growing love has no chance with their father's hating each other so much, I was grateful that the author kept that on just the right side of too much angst. It was fun watching the pair act out their roles so that the big scenes from the original story took on a new significance because it is play acting. When Darcy says, 'she is not handsome enough to tempt me' at the assembly, Elizabeth is aware he is play acting for her family and his father's spies, the Hursts (yep, for those familiar, that will cause a laugh or two). Though, they both act so well that at times there is a seed of doubt that the insults and actions are real only later to get private moments to reassure each other.
And that brings me to say that it was exciting to see how familiar characters would play out their roles with their personalities in tact. Georgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam have more scene time since they are introduced early on in the story. Bingley wanted smacking for nearly losing his chance with Jane because he needed to grow a spine. I thought it was great fun to watch Darcy's father and Lady Catherine clash in the Rosings Park scene. It's rare that I will cheer on Lady C, but she was magnificent. But the one that made me giggle snort was Darcy Senior delivering a set down to the odious Caroline Bingley. He's the bad guy, but even bad guys have their moments.
The last series of scenes were a build up of tension and pace as Darcy and Elizabeth worked to thwart his father's plotting. Like watching the end of a Checkers match. I was flipping pages pretty fast to see if they would pull it off.
This is one that it is best read by those who have read Austen's P&P or at least watched a movie adaption. Several times in the story, I relied more on my previous knowledge to fill things in. For example, Mr. Collins is suddenly on the scene without being introduced performing his usual role. So, it's not that others can't enjoy this story or engage with it, I just feel it would be even better to have the older story in mind to appreciate it better.
In summary, this was a delight and a story that I would recommend particularly for JAFF and Austenesque lovers who enjoy a dash of Shakespeare to make it interesting. This is a new situation for Darcy and somewhat for Elizabeth and well worth the curious interest I felt in the beginning.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2020
I loved this book so much. It was terrific. I never want to give anything away so no details here. I only wish that it had ended differently instead of a "cop-out" type ending. I was hoping the opposite would happen but still loved it.
Reread this and LOVED it. Still!! Great one. One of my fave authors.
Reread this and LOVED it. Still!! Great one. One of my fave authors.
April 18, 2017
Review initially published on:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
When Darcy vs. Bennet came out last year, everyone was talking about it, and I heard that it was a love at first sight story. I’m usually not very fond of the love at first sight premise, for the simple reason that I don’t believe in it, so I was a little put out because I love Victoria Kincaid’s books and I was eager to read this one. But it was a Victoria Kincaid book nonetheless, so I had to read it! I filled myself with courage and gave it a go. Guess what? I should have read it the first time I got a chance because it was absolutely wonderful!!!
In Darcy vs. Bennet Mr. Darcy meets Elizabeth Bennet at a masquerade ball, and even if they feel drawn to each other almost immediately, they do have a chance to dance, talk and get to know each other a little better. It is also in this masquerade ball that Elizabeth proves to be a trustworthy friend in the eyes of Mr. Darcy, by saving Georgiana from eloping with Mr. Wickham. But when she hears Mr. Darcy’s family name, she understands a relationship between them can never occur due to their parents’ feud and flees the party.
Mr. Darcy cannot forget the only woman who had thus far captured his attention and searches everywhere for Elizabeth, but knowing only her given name is endeavor is unsuccessful. Two years later, when he travels to Netherfield with Mr. Bingley, he reunites with Elizabeth and from the moment they recognize each other we are faced with a turbulent but poignant love story!
In this book Mr. Darcy senior is still alive and he is the true villain of the story, he is a despicable man and I loved to hate him in Darcy vs. Bennet. In fact, I believe he became my favorite villain in a JAFF story because it was due to his unrelenting demands that Mr. Darcy takes one of the bravest decisions he was ever asked to make on behalf of his love for Elizabeth.
I loved how strong and unbinding Darcy and Elizabeth’s love was in this book, and how far Mr. Darcy would go to be with her; how she made him a humbler man in a completely different way than we are used to see and how they suffered for their love. If I go straight to the point, I just LOVED this book!
In Darcy vs. Bennet I could feel once more the type of love Mrs. Kincaid developed in The Secrets of Darcy and Elizabeth: intense, secretive, intimate, insecure and resolute at the same time.
It is a fast paced book that captured my heart from page one until the end. I’ve read many of Victoria Kincaid’s books, if not all, and I know she is a diversified author. Among her works, one can either find a humorous and light book or a gripping romance that will touch our souls. Darcy vs Bennet is amongst the second category. It is an epic romance that I recommend to everyone.
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
When Darcy vs. Bennet came out last year, everyone was talking about it, and I heard that it was a love at first sight story. I’m usually not very fond of the love at first sight premise, for the simple reason that I don’t believe in it, so I was a little put out because I love Victoria Kincaid’s books and I was eager to read this one. But it was a Victoria Kincaid book nonetheless, so I had to read it! I filled myself with courage and gave it a go. Guess what? I should have read it the first time I got a chance because it was absolutely wonderful!!!
In Darcy vs. Bennet Mr. Darcy meets Elizabeth Bennet at a masquerade ball, and even if they feel drawn to each other almost immediately, they do have a chance to dance, talk and get to know each other a little better. It is also in this masquerade ball that Elizabeth proves to be a trustworthy friend in the eyes of Mr. Darcy, by saving Georgiana from eloping with Mr. Wickham. But when she hears Mr. Darcy’s family name, she understands a relationship between them can never occur due to their parents’ feud and flees the party.
Mr. Darcy cannot forget the only woman who had thus far captured his attention and searches everywhere for Elizabeth, but knowing only her given name is endeavor is unsuccessful. Two years later, when he travels to Netherfield with Mr. Bingley, he reunites with Elizabeth and from the moment they recognize each other we are faced with a turbulent but poignant love story!
In this book Mr. Darcy senior is still alive and he is the true villain of the story, he is a despicable man and I loved to hate him in Darcy vs. Bennet. In fact, I believe he became my favorite villain in a JAFF story because it was due to his unrelenting demands that Mr. Darcy takes one of the bravest decisions he was ever asked to make on behalf of his love for Elizabeth.
I loved how strong and unbinding Darcy and Elizabeth’s love was in this book, and how far Mr. Darcy would go to be with her; how she made him a humbler man in a completely different way than we are used to see and how they suffered for their love. If I go straight to the point, I just LOVED this book!
In Darcy vs. Bennet I could feel once more the type of love Mrs. Kincaid developed in The Secrets of Darcy and Elizabeth: intense, secretive, intimate, insecure and resolute at the same time.
It is a fast paced book that captured my heart from page one until the end. I’ve read many of Victoria Kincaid’s books, if not all, and I know she is a diversified author. Among her works, one can either find a humorous and light book or a gripping romance that will touch our souls. Darcy vs Bennet is amongst the second category. It is an epic romance that I recommend to everyone.
March 27, 2016
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
In this book the elder Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bennet had several situations in which they formed a intense dislike for one another which just happens to affect the futures of our dear couple. I really loved how Lizzy and Darcy met during a masquerade ball (to which Lizzy was a uninvited party crasher) and they started to like one another. But however she finds out who he is and then runs away from the party and they don't meet again for two years.
I loved Fitzwilliam in this book. he is actually very kind but has to act standoffish because him and Lizzy have to act like they hate each other. But every time they meet in private sparks fly and he also gets really jealous and shows it. I loved the part where Mr. Collins was trying to propose marriage to Elizabeth. Oh man Darcy just made that scene. It was a little sad that Darcy's father and Mr. Bennet's hatred of each other colored his view of Fitzwilliam. He never even gave him a chance until the end of the book. And I grew to hate the elder Mr. Darcy with a passion. I was glad that he died at the end of the book. Of course that made Darcy and Lizzy postpone their wedding yet again.
I swear Victoria's books always make me feel better when I read them and she is one of my go to JAFF authors. Darcy Vs. Bennet is a definite must read and you don't want to miss it.
Rating: 4½ stars out of 5
In this book the elder Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bennet had several situations in which they formed a intense dislike for one another which just happens to affect the futures of our dear couple. I really loved how Lizzy and Darcy met during a masquerade ball (to which Lizzy was a uninvited party crasher) and they started to like one another. But however she finds out who he is and then runs away from the party and they don't meet again for two years.
I loved Fitzwilliam in this book. he is actually very kind but has to act standoffish because him and Lizzy have to act like they hate each other. But every time they meet in private sparks fly and he also gets really jealous and shows it. I loved the part where Mr. Collins was trying to propose marriage to Elizabeth. Oh man Darcy just made that scene. It was a little sad that Darcy's father and Mr. Bennet's hatred of each other colored his view of Fitzwilliam. He never even gave him a chance until the end of the book. And I grew to hate the elder Mr. Darcy with a passion. I was glad that he died at the end of the book. Of course that made Darcy and Lizzy postpone their wedding yet again.
I swear Victoria's books always make me feel better when I read them and she is one of my go to JAFF authors. Darcy Vs. Bennet is a definite must read and you don't want to miss it.
Rating: 4½ stars out of 5
December 8, 2025
A Touch of Romeo and Juliet…
… Except Romeo/Darcy doesn’t die, thank goodness! With Mr. Bennet and George Darcy feuding, how will ODC find a way to be together at last? A sweet variation that keeps the pages turning to find out how their HEA comes about. Recommend
September 22, 2022 - Audiobook
Another very satisfying listen from Stevie Zimmerman. She undoubtedly performs the best Darcy by a female narrator in my opinion.
… Except Romeo/Darcy doesn’t die, thank goodness! With Mr. Bennet and George Darcy feuding, how will ODC find a way to be together at last? A sweet variation that keeps the pages turning to find out how their HEA comes about. Recommend
September 22, 2022 - Audiobook
Another very satisfying listen from Stevie Zimmerman. She undoubtedly performs the best Darcy by a female narrator in my opinion.
January 26, 2018
Unputdownable!
Loved the plot in this story, thought it was unique, romantic and thrilling.
Elizabeth is visiting her friend Louise Green in Sussex when she is dragged along, uninvited, to masquerade as her friend is in love with the host.
Elizabeth is quickly abandon as her friend finds her beau, wandering aimlessly around the garden, she stumbles upon Mr Darcy (who is looking for a wife but are losing hope of finding one...)
Their attraction are immediate and Elizabeth saves the day as she prevents Georgiana from making a huge mistake but by rescuing her she learns who she is being attracted to. There is a long standing feud between the Bennet's and the Darcy's which makes Elizabeth run away before Darcy learns her name.
The story jumps 2 years and it enters the timeline of canon.
The patriarch of the Bennet family is far from pleased when he discovers that one of Bingley's guests at Netherfield is the son of his greatest enemy. However, the love blossoms between ODC although they have to be very circumspect in company, they manage to outmaneuver their adversaries and have several lovely, romantic interludes. Both acknowledge that there can never be anything serious between them but love can be hard to conquer...
Wickham is the elder ( and still living) Mr Darcy's protege and are set in the service of making a great deal of havoc...
With their families at odds, their road to HEA can at times seem insurmountable but love conquers all, doesn't it...
Thoroughly enjoyed this delightful read and heartily recommend!
Loved the plot in this story, thought it was unique, romantic and thrilling.
Elizabeth is visiting her friend Louise Green in Sussex when she is dragged along, uninvited, to masquerade as her friend is in love with the host.
Elizabeth is quickly abandon as her friend finds her beau, wandering aimlessly around the garden, she stumbles upon Mr Darcy (who is looking for a wife but are losing hope of finding one...)
Their attraction are immediate and Elizabeth saves the day as she prevents Georgiana from making a huge mistake but by rescuing her she learns who she is being attracted to. There is a long standing feud between the Bennet's and the Darcy's which makes Elizabeth run away before Darcy learns her name.
The story jumps 2 years and it enters the timeline of canon.
The patriarch of the Bennet family is far from pleased when he discovers that one of Bingley's guests at Netherfield is the son of his greatest enemy. However, the love blossoms between ODC although they have to be very circumspect in company, they manage to outmaneuver their adversaries and have several lovely, romantic interludes. Both acknowledge that there can never be anything serious between them but love can be hard to conquer...
Wickham is the elder ( and still living) Mr Darcy's protege and are set in the service of making a great deal of havoc...
With their families at odds, their road to HEA can at times seem insurmountable but love conquers all, doesn't it...
Thoroughly enjoyed this delightful read and heartily recommend!
July 22, 2022
Quite an endearing tale. Romeo and Juliette meets Pride and Prejudice. I have listened to the audiobook several times and it does not get old. Love it.
October 24, 2020
I enjoyed reading this book. The writing is crisp without grammatical errors. I love masquerade balls, and this one doesn't disappoint. The characters stay true to the original Pride and Prejudice. It is a sweet love story.
October 5, 2019
4.5 stars
Even with this only being 207 pages long I enjoyed the tale and rarely set my kindle down as I had to read how matters resolved themselves. Although two reviews on Amazon have the SPOILING effect of informing readers of just how matters are settled I will join the one in saying that event was not much of a surprise. But to other members of the Darcy and Bennet families in our novel it was and made their HEA occur only a little more distant into the future.
A large part of what enthralled me about this book was the fact that Darcy and Elizabeth meet without introduction at a masquerade ball, just as he is considering departing as all the guests are "the same old, same old"! He has been searching for wife and is under orders from his controlling and vindictive father to do it within 3 years or yield to the demand that he marry his cousin, Anne. As Darcy notices a young lady in a pale yellow gown, and even as he is drawn to her, he determines that he does not know her. He has looked over the figures, the hair coloring and listened to the voices of all in attendance and resolves he has not met her. Unbelievably....our Darcy asks a stranger to dance. Pursuant conversation urges him to ask her name but she is a party crasher and as such is wise enough to only reveal her Christian name. He must at one point interrupt their conversation as he discovers his sister, Georgiana, who is not yet out, has also "crashed the party". Then only a short time later, as Elizabeth sends him off with an excuse that she desires refreshment in order to allow her to sneak out of the ball before the midnight unveiling of masks, Elizabeth comes upon that same sister in a compromising situation. She intervenes, Darcy returns and upon his confronting of "you-know-who" Elizabeth hears him use his surname and knows that this man is part and parcel of her father's most hated and reviled enemy’s family. Their acquaintance can never be!
Much of this tale is concerning the feelings these two (like Romeo and Juliet) must conceal due to their families renowned hatred of each other. And, yet as days, months and even years pass, each has thoughts and dreams of the other. Now canon comes to bear. The Meryton Assembly is at hand. But now Elizabeth with her foreknowledge and Darcy with his shockingly just acquired learning of the other's identity must force a demeanor of disdain to prevent mayhem on the dance floor...and as our tale continues, in Hertfortshire, Kent, London and Pemberley.
Yes, Collins proposes and you will find much satisfaction in that scene. Again Darcy has an opportunity to make his Hunsford proposal. Does he blunder so badly? But ODC has to guard not only their words but also every act, every glance and facial expression so as to prevent both fathers from learning of their warm feeling towards the other. It is a struggle and you will be amused at how each questions if the other has changed their opinion when their thespian skills are so convincing. You will also hold your breath when you read of just who is suspect in sending tales of Darcy's behaviors back to his father, George Darcy. Few are in on the secret but in the end it is a matter of an old tale as in canon and a blackmail situation which bring all this to a climax.
In reading of George Darcy’s history with Thomas Bennet one can only consider that the former man is a true cad, a man with no honor. This is not a man who imparts to Darcy proper behaviors, morals or how to treat servants, tenants and acquaintances.
Others have said that this story was rushed at the end. That could be seen as true but for me I was satisfied with the settling of affairs in this family feud.
I received an Audible copy of this book and listened to it while walking from 10-1-19 to 10-5-19.
Even with this only being 207 pages long I enjoyed the tale and rarely set my kindle down as I had to read how matters resolved themselves. Although two reviews on Amazon have the SPOILING effect of informing readers of just how matters are settled I will join the one in saying that event was not much of a surprise. But to other members of the Darcy and Bennet families in our novel it was and made their HEA occur only a little more distant into the future.
A large part of what enthralled me about this book was the fact that Darcy and Elizabeth meet without introduction at a masquerade ball, just as he is considering departing as all the guests are "the same old, same old"! He has been searching for wife and is under orders from his controlling and vindictive father to do it within 3 years or yield to the demand that he marry his cousin, Anne. As Darcy notices a young lady in a pale yellow gown, and even as he is drawn to her, he determines that he does not know her. He has looked over the figures, the hair coloring and listened to the voices of all in attendance and resolves he has not met her. Unbelievably....our Darcy asks a stranger to dance. Pursuant conversation urges him to ask her name but she is a party crasher and as such is wise enough to only reveal her Christian name. He must at one point interrupt their conversation as he discovers his sister, Georgiana, who is not yet out, has also "crashed the party". Then only a short time later, as Elizabeth sends him off with an excuse that she desires refreshment in order to allow her to sneak out of the ball before the midnight unveiling of masks, Elizabeth comes upon that same sister in a compromising situation. She intervenes, Darcy returns and upon his confronting of "you-know-who" Elizabeth hears him use his surname and knows that this man is part and parcel of her father's most hated and reviled enemy’s family. Their acquaintance can never be!
Much of this tale is concerning the feelings these two (like Romeo and Juliet) must conceal due to their families renowned hatred of each other. And, yet as days, months and even years pass, each has thoughts and dreams of the other. Now canon comes to bear. The Meryton Assembly is at hand. But now Elizabeth with her foreknowledge and Darcy with his shockingly just acquired learning of the other's identity must force a demeanor of disdain to prevent mayhem on the dance floor...and as our tale continues, in Hertfortshire, Kent, London and Pemberley.
Yes, Collins proposes and you will find much satisfaction in that scene. Again Darcy has an opportunity to make his Hunsford proposal. Does he blunder so badly? But ODC has to guard not only their words but also every act, every glance and facial expression so as to prevent both fathers from learning of their warm feeling towards the other. It is a struggle and you will be amused at how each questions if the other has changed their opinion when their thespian skills are so convincing. You will also hold your breath when you read of just who is suspect in sending tales of Darcy's behaviors back to his father, George Darcy. Few are in on the secret but in the end it is a matter of an old tale as in canon and a blackmail situation which bring all this to a climax.
In reading of George Darcy’s history with Thomas Bennet one can only consider that the former man is a true cad, a man with no honor. This is not a man who imparts to Darcy proper behaviors, morals or how to treat servants, tenants and acquaintances.
Others have said that this story was rushed at the end. That could be seen as true but for me I was satisfied with the settling of affairs in this family feud.
I received an Audible copy of this book and listened to it while walking from 10-1-19 to 10-5-19.
September 10, 2016
Will Darcy “Deny Thy Father and Refuse Thy Name?”
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Author
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: 2 years before the start of Pride and Prejudice
MAIN CHARACTERS: The Bennets, Mr. Darcy, and George Darcy
SYNOPSIS: What if George Darcy was alive? What if he was an immoral, unjust, controlling man and the sworn enemy of Mr. Bennet? What if Darcy and Elizabeth were falling in love, but knew they had no future together because of their fathers’ feud?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Heart-Melting Beginning: Oh, this was just lovely! Darcy and Elizabeth meet at a masquerade ball, wearing masks, and not knowing each other’s names. It was enchanting and oh-so-adorable! I loved seeing their interest in each other begin, how they didn’t want their exchanges to end, and the humorous things they were thinking to themselves!
- Unique Antagonist: Not only is George Darcy alive, he is the villain in this variation! It was interesting to see Darcy have an estranged and conflicted relationship with his father. We are so accustomed to seeing Darcy as master of Pemberley and in control of his own destiny. But in this story, George Darcy keeps Darcy under his thumb and even has some of Darcy’s friends and servants acting as his own personal informants! And wait ’til you find out what happened with Mr. Bennet!
- Consumed: Just like with Pride and Proposals, Victoria Kincaid’s prose held me captive. The impossibility of the situation Darcy and Elizabeth find themselves, their ardent devotion for each other, the risky charade they have to play in front of others – ah! such a terrific blend of conflict, romance, and danger! This story definitely had me playing the “just one chapter more” game!
- Fits In To Canon: I love how this story, event though it began with such a different premise, still followed the same course – Meryton Assembly, Jane at Netherfield, Elizabeth in Kent, Elizabeth in Derbyshire. It was clever how Victoria Kincaid took events like Darcy’s insult at the Meryton Assembly and his unfriendly demeanor to Meryton society and made it plausibly fit in the constructs of her tale.
- Passionate Embraces: Mmm, yes! With so much tension and conflict, the stolen moments alone between Darcy and Elizabeth were deeply satisfying! I love that Darcy was so affectionate with Elizabeth – he definitely embodied the description of a “man violently in love.” And I love how Elizabeth was so warm and receptive of his affection. *sigh* (Note: this story is suitable for audiences over the age of 13).
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
The Ending: The build up for this story was so magnificent, I was enraptured and gripped by these characters and their conflicts. But I must admit, I felt slightly dissatisfied with the ending – perhaps because I felt it came about too quickly or because the conclusion itself felt a little too brief.
CONCLUSION:
Darcy vs. Bennet is a splendidly romantic and compelling tale! I adore Victoria Kincaid’s expressive prose, passionate characters, and the dramatic obstacles she puts in their way! I can hardly wait to reading Victoria Kincaid’s next Pride and Prejudice variation, Chaos Come to Longbourn, which was just released earlier this month!
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Author
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: 2 years before the start of Pride and Prejudice
MAIN CHARACTERS: The Bennets, Mr. Darcy, and George Darcy
SYNOPSIS: What if George Darcy was alive? What if he was an immoral, unjust, controlling man and the sworn enemy of Mr. Bennet? What if Darcy and Elizabeth were falling in love, but knew they had no future together because of their fathers’ feud?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Heart-Melting Beginning: Oh, this was just lovely! Darcy and Elizabeth meet at a masquerade ball, wearing masks, and not knowing each other’s names. It was enchanting and oh-so-adorable! I loved seeing their interest in each other begin, how they didn’t want their exchanges to end, and the humorous things they were thinking to themselves!
- Unique Antagonist: Not only is George Darcy alive, he is the villain in this variation! It was interesting to see Darcy have an estranged and conflicted relationship with his father. We are so accustomed to seeing Darcy as master of Pemberley and in control of his own destiny. But in this story, George Darcy keeps Darcy under his thumb and even has some of Darcy’s friends and servants acting as his own personal informants! And wait ’til you find out what happened with Mr. Bennet!
- Consumed: Just like with Pride and Proposals, Victoria Kincaid’s prose held me captive. The impossibility of the situation Darcy and Elizabeth find themselves, their ardent devotion for each other, the risky charade they have to play in front of others – ah! such a terrific blend of conflict, romance, and danger! This story definitely had me playing the “just one chapter more” game!
- Fits In To Canon: I love how this story, event though it began with such a different premise, still followed the same course – Meryton Assembly, Jane at Netherfield, Elizabeth in Kent, Elizabeth in Derbyshire. It was clever how Victoria Kincaid took events like Darcy’s insult at the Meryton Assembly and his unfriendly demeanor to Meryton society and made it plausibly fit in the constructs of her tale.
- Passionate Embraces: Mmm, yes! With so much tension and conflict, the stolen moments alone between Darcy and Elizabeth were deeply satisfying! I love that Darcy was so affectionate with Elizabeth – he definitely embodied the description of a “man violently in love.” And I love how Elizabeth was so warm and receptive of his affection. *sigh* (Note: this story is suitable for audiences over the age of 13).
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
The Ending: The build up for this story was so magnificent, I was enraptured and gripped by these characters and their conflicts. But I must admit, I felt slightly dissatisfied with the ending – perhaps because I felt it came about too quickly or because the conclusion itself felt a little too brief.
CONCLUSION:
Darcy vs. Bennet is a splendidly romantic and compelling tale! I adore Victoria Kincaid’s expressive prose, passionate characters, and the dramatic obstacles she puts in their way! I can hardly wait to reading Victoria Kincaid’s next Pride and Prejudice variation, Chaos Come to Longbourn, which was just released earlier this month!
April 9, 2016
When I had read this story had tones of Romeo and Juliet, I became a bit skeptical, as I definitely prefer Beatrice and Benedict more. But I very much enjoyed the story. I almost became desperate to learn what was the root cause of the Bennet Darcy feud, and almost cried out when it was revealed. I don't think I have seen a viler version of Darcy's father. The ending did seem a bit forced and rushed, but "all's well that ends well."
December 2, 2022
I've read this 2 times. While I wish there was a more complete resolution to the feud and that it was actually explained (When E does explain, she says she lied and we never get another story), I highly enjoyed this tale. Lots of angst and drama, wonderful moments between D&E make this a compelling page turner.
highly recommend!
2nd read was Audible and narration is fantastic!
highly recommend!
2nd read was Audible and narration is fantastic!
February 21, 2021
When I finished this book, I thought: "Melodramatic and ridiculous." But for all that, I admit I kind of enjoyed it.
George Darcy is a caricature of a villain, hateful for the sake of being hateful, loathing the entire Bennet family and bent on ruining them, for the sole reason that Mr Bennet once scored better in a test at school. Seriously, that's his only motivation. What did I tell you? Ridiculous.
Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth are madly in love, sneaking about stealing kisses and exchanging yearning looks for the majority of the novel, playing out a poor version of Romeo and Juliet ('deny thy father and refuse thy name!'), and hiding their feelings by pretending they hate each other, just in case word gets back to Darcy senior and he tries to separate them.
The book is full of silly contradictions, for example:
Darcy tells Colonel Fitzwilliam that he believes his father would hurt Elizabeth or have her kidnapped to prevent them being together, but later when he realises Wickham was paid to try to ruin her reputation he's shocked that his father would go so far.
Darcy and Elizabeth keep saying they should stay apart because they can't be trusted to be in the same room without dry humping each other, but they still continue to meet ridiculously often and do exactly that, and don't even bother to attempt privacy.
A hallway that any servant or household member could walk down? Great place for illicit kisses! The side of a public road that anyone could walk or ride or drive along at any moment? Hell yes, optimal groping location! A library where people might wander to find a good book? Why not practically get naked on a chaise? Who cares about reputation!
Perhaps because his father is so controlling and he is unable to be his own man, Darcy is hugely altered from canon Darcy and seems rather weak. Elizabeth also changes from canon, probably as a result of being so full of angst, yearning and heartache, and she loses all her vivacity, wit and humour.
Darcy's internal struggle about whether he will ignore his father and propose to Elizabeth anyway, is really dragged out. I don't deny it would have been a difficult decision, but none of the reasons that I believe canon Darcy would find it difficult are even addressed...
So, for all my giant list of criticisms, why did I still feel engaged with this story? Perhaps because I ceased thinking of it as a Pride and Prejudice vagary, which helped.
Mr Bennet, Elizabeth and Darcy are all too unlike canon Bennet, Elizabeth, and Darcy, so I guess I enjoyed this more as a love story in its own right.
As a P&P vagary, it doesn't work for me, but as its own regency love story chock full of melodrama, it is definitely engaging.
George Darcy is a caricature of a villain, hateful for the sake of being hateful, loathing the entire Bennet family and bent on ruining them, for the sole reason that Mr Bennet once scored better in a test at school. Seriously, that's his only motivation. What did I tell you? Ridiculous.
Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth are madly in love, sneaking about stealing kisses and exchanging yearning looks for the majority of the novel, playing out a poor version of Romeo and Juliet ('deny thy father and refuse thy name!'), and hiding their feelings by pretending they hate each other, just in case word gets back to Darcy senior and he tries to separate them.
The book is full of silly contradictions, for example:
Darcy tells Colonel Fitzwilliam that he believes his father would hurt Elizabeth or have her kidnapped to prevent them being together, but later when he realises Wickham was paid to try to ruin her reputation he's shocked that his father would go so far.
Darcy and Elizabeth keep saying they should stay apart because they can't be trusted to be in the same room without dry humping each other, but they still continue to meet ridiculously often and do exactly that, and don't even bother to attempt privacy.
A hallway that any servant or household member could walk down? Great place for illicit kisses! The side of a public road that anyone could walk or ride or drive along at any moment? Hell yes, optimal groping location! A library where people might wander to find a good book? Why not practically get naked on a chaise? Who cares about reputation!
Perhaps because his father is so controlling and he is unable to be his own man, Darcy is hugely altered from canon Darcy and seems rather weak. Elizabeth also changes from canon, probably as a result of being so full of angst, yearning and heartache, and she loses all her vivacity, wit and humour.
Darcy's internal struggle about whether he will ignore his father and propose to Elizabeth anyway, is really dragged out. I don't deny it would have been a difficult decision, but none of the reasons that I believe canon Darcy would find it difficult are even addressed...
So, for all my giant list of criticisms, why did I still feel engaged with this story? Perhaps because I ceased thinking of it as a Pride and Prejudice vagary, which helped.
Mr Bennet, Elizabeth and Darcy are all too unlike canon Bennet, Elizabeth, and Darcy, so I guess I enjoyed this more as a love story in its own right.
As a P&P vagary, it doesn't work for me, but as its own regency love story chock full of melodrama, it is definitely engaging.
July 5, 2017
What if Fitzwilliam Darcy's father was still alive and had a lifelong hatred of the Bennets? What if Darcy and Elizabeth meet at midsummer masquerade ball and instantly fall in love?
This was a delightfully creative 'what if' variation on Pride and Prejudice with a touch of Romeo and Juliet. Oh the sparks fly between Darcy and Elizabeth when they first meet at the Berwick masquerade ball. Elizabeth has joined her friend, Louisa Green, in surreptitiously joining the party. Elizabeth is trying to keep an eye on Louisa, when she meets the enigmatic masked Darcy. Neither are formally introduced but each feel the energy between them. Only first names are given which adds an even further mystery to each. How they come to find each other two years after the ball and still feel the flame between them was well done. I liked the twists and turns to this story and how the animosity between their father's keeps them apart as opposed to each other.
"If their families had not shared this painful history perhaps they could have met and formed an attachment with no other obstacles blocking their path."
I also enjoyed how phrases were used differently in this story as opposed to the original.
"We can never be anything to each other. We must pretend we never met and act as common and indifferent strangers..."
The tension is high throughout this book as they try to hide their feelings from everyone. Darcy is concerned with spies in his household and some acquaintances who would report back to his father. He must not let him know his interest in Elizabeth or the repercussions could be devastating. Elizabeth has no one to confide in as she doesn't want to put the burden on Jane knowing how hard that would be to keep such information from their father.
Father Darcy is worse than Lady Catherine in his manipulation and control of his Darcy and Georgiana. He also manipulates Wickham in his goal to bring Darcy to heel. Lady Catherine and Mr. Collins play a role as well.
Like others though, I do feel the ending was a bit rushed, but maybe I just didn't want the story to end. It would have been nice to have Elizabeth's friend, Louisa Green, brought back into the story near the end as well...for it was her idea to attend the ball in the first place! All in all, a delightful twist to the Darcy and Bennet families that I definitely recommend!
November 30, 2022
Elizabeth Bennet falls in love with the son of her father’s sworn enemy. I really enjoyed the story our dear couple learns how much they mean to each other.
April 1, 2016
Darcy vs Bennet: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Oh, brother, this variation was filled with hateful anger between George Darcy and Thomas Bennet. This feud started at Cambridge when both were students. Through George Darcy's hateful demeanor, he and his group spread lies about Thomas Bennet and he was sent down from Cambridge. Worse yet was that his father believed the rumors and while Thomas inherited Longbourn, all the money and house in London went to the young son who squandered away his fortune once his father died. Thomas was left with a farm that he had no money for upkeep reducing his family's potential. While George Darcy was disliked and not respected by most in Derbyshire, Fitzwilliam Darcy was just the opposite. His staff, his tenants, and the people of Lambton respected young Darcy. Darcy met Elizabeth at a Masquerade Ball where her friend convinced her to attend even though they were not invited. All Darcy knew was her name, but she had saved Georgiana from Wickham's treachery. When Darcy found her missing, he was sad that she left without getting her full name and location. He happened upon her when Bingley rented Netherfield. When both realized that they were restricted because of their fathers' feud, they pretended to dislike each other. What angered me was all the people that spied on Fitzwilliam for his father. Meeting again at Kent, the two could no longer deny their love, became betrothed, but still had to fake their dislike of one another. With Elizabeth's arrival in Lambton, her twenty-first birthday has passed, and William has a special license to marry Elizabeth on Monday. Hurst writes to George Darcy and tells him of his son's betrothed being a Bennet, but George was already on the road from Bath to Pemberley, and needless to say he was angry when he arrived home and his son left with Elizabeth Bennet and the Gardiners. He wonders if his son figured out that he was involved with Wickham to bring about her sister's ruin. Elizabeth gets Jane's letters the morning of her wedding day, and the wedding is postponed. As Elizabeth tells him the news of her sister's scandal, he tells her that until he finds Wickham and forces him to marry Lydia, and no, he was not letting her out their marriage. When Bennet finds Darcy at the Gardiners, he is livid. Gardiner takes Bennet Bennet and Darcy into his study with Elizabeth big as you please, following close behind. When her father objects and stands to threaten Darcy, little Elizabeth stands up to her father reminding him that William is not like his father. When Gardiner tells all that he did to prevent the scandal, Bennet realizes that he is not like his father and gives his blessings and consent to marry. Celebrating their upcoming marriage, George arrives a blows a gasket, challenging Bennet, Gardiner, and his son. Fitzwilliam knows he will cut his allowance, but is not prepared for losing his inheritance. Darcy decides that a life without Elizabeth will not happen. His father gives him until the morning to come to his senses, and George goes to his room and drinks the night away. In the morning, he is fixed and both Darcy and Richard try to talk him out of leaving Darcy House for the solicitor's office, but his footman helps him into the carriage. Minutes later, the footman that accompanied him, comes back to tell him he's needed. He no longer had to worry about his inheritance. Smiles for a happily ever after.
Oh, brother, this variation was filled with hateful anger between George Darcy and Thomas Bennet. This feud started at Cambridge when both were students. Through George Darcy's hateful demeanor, he and his group spread lies about Thomas Bennet and he was sent down from Cambridge. Worse yet was that his father believed the rumors and while Thomas inherited Longbourn, all the money and house in London went to the young son who squandered away his fortune once his father died. Thomas was left with a farm that he had no money for upkeep reducing his family's potential. While George Darcy was disliked and not respected by most in Derbyshire, Fitzwilliam Darcy was just the opposite. His staff, his tenants, and the people of Lambton respected young Darcy. Darcy met Elizabeth at a Masquerade Ball where her friend convinced her to attend even though they were not invited. All Darcy knew was her name, but she had saved Georgiana from Wickham's treachery. When Darcy found her missing, he was sad that she left without getting her full name and location. He happened upon her when Bingley rented Netherfield. When both realized that they were restricted because of their fathers' feud, they pretended to dislike each other. What angered me was all the people that spied on Fitzwilliam for his father. Meeting again at Kent, the two could no longer deny their love, became betrothed, but still had to fake their dislike of one another. With Elizabeth's arrival in Lambton, her twenty-first birthday has passed, and William has a special license to marry Elizabeth on Monday. Hurst writes to George Darcy and tells him of his son's betrothed being a Bennet, but George was already on the road from Bath to Pemberley, and needless to say he was angry when he arrived home and his son left with Elizabeth Bennet and the Gardiners. He wonders if his son figured out that he was involved with Wickham to bring about her sister's ruin. Elizabeth gets Jane's letters the morning of her wedding day, and the wedding is postponed. As Elizabeth tells him the news of her sister's scandal, he tells her that until he finds Wickham and forces him to marry Lydia, and no, he was not letting her out their marriage. When Bennet finds Darcy at the Gardiners, he is livid. Gardiner takes Bennet Bennet and Darcy into his study with Elizabeth big as you please, following close behind. When her father objects and stands to threaten Darcy, little Elizabeth stands up to her father reminding him that William is not like his father. When Gardiner tells all that he did to prevent the scandal, Bennet realizes that he is not like his father and gives his blessings and consent to marry. Celebrating their upcoming marriage, George arrives a blows a gasket, challenging Bennet, Gardiner, and his son. Fitzwilliam knows he will cut his allowance, but is not prepared for losing his inheritance. Darcy decides that a life without Elizabeth will not happen. His father gives him until the morning to come to his senses, and George goes to his room and drinks the night away. In the morning, he is fixed and both Darcy and Richard try to talk him out of leaving Darcy House for the solicitor's office, but his footman helps him into the carriage. Minutes later, the footman that accompanied him, comes back to tell him he's needed. He no longer had to worry about his inheritance. Smiles for a happily ever after.
May 17, 2016
An original villain.
Risen from the dead and not heaven sent, the senior Mr. Darcy holds a tight rein on his son, laying out plans and ultimatums that would even choke a sycophant. But our fair, upstanding hero meets our fair, compassionate heroine and love ensues. There are hurdles upon hurdles, scheme after scheme, family vendettas and evil accomplices, but the good and noble win out in the end. If that sounds like 'the moral of the story' take heart, it's only one of them. The ultimate proverb here would be "Don't drink and drive". Three and a half because personally, I would have told Darcy to call me when your Daddy cleans up his act, but I think those Regency hormones won out, not that we get there, but they sure do a whole lot of kissing, pressing, and holding along the way.
Risen from the dead and not heaven sent, the senior Mr. Darcy holds a tight rein on his son, laying out plans and ultimatums that would even choke a sycophant. But our fair, upstanding hero meets our fair, compassionate heroine and love ensues. There are hurdles upon hurdles, scheme after scheme, family vendettas and evil accomplices, but the good and noble win out in the end. If that sounds like 'the moral of the story' take heart, it's only one of them. The ultimate proverb here would be "Don't drink and drive". Three and a half because personally, I would have told Darcy to call me when your Daddy cleans up his act, but I think those Regency hormones won out, not that we get there, but they sure do a whole lot of kissing, pressing, and holding along the way.
March 6, 2022
A lusty Romeo and Juliet
Never a dull moment as Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love and lust at first sight. Despite their families ' longstanding enmity and many other problems, they ride a roller coaster of troubles, kisses, and exciting moments to a happily ever after. Thoroughly nasty Darcy Senior adds new villainy.
Never a dull moment as Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love and lust at first sight. Despite their families ' longstanding enmity and many other problems, they ride a roller coaster of troubles, kisses, and exciting moments to a happily ever after. Thoroughly nasty Darcy Senior adds new villainy.
May 7, 2016
A story of such great love! I love how Darcy is described in this novel; the emotions he feels and how he so eloquently tells Elizabeth his feelings. But the path to love never runs smoothly and no more so for these two beloved characters. In this version Darcy's father is alive and has a long standing feud with Mr Bennet so any ties between their families are impossible. I didn't enjoy how far Darcy Sr was willing to go to ruin the Bennets - he was painted as such a villain.
Elizabeth and Darcy meet at a masquerade where they fall in love but Darcy only knows her first name and when they meet again in Meryton he realizes it can never be. But Darcy cannot deny his feelings for Elizabeth and although we next follow the plot as in the original P&P there are secret meetings for these two that always end with many kisses. To onlookers they despise each other all to protect the other. In many ways it closely resembles the original novel with the original conversations but what if that was all an act and their true feelings were expressed in private? That's the plot of this novel.
My 2 reasons for a 4 vs 5 rating is twofold: 1) these two can't keep their hands off each other when alone (really Darcy?) and 2) Darcy Sr went too far.. I didn't enjoy his character and didn't even feel sorry for him in the end which is sad.
Of course Elizabeth and Darcy must find their happy ending but after much threatened scandal and insults. Overall I enjoyed the novel and couldn't put it down until I read how they got through it all!
Elizabeth and Darcy meet at a masquerade where they fall in love but Darcy only knows her first name and when they meet again in Meryton he realizes it can never be. But Darcy cannot deny his feelings for Elizabeth and although we next follow the plot as in the original P&P there are secret meetings for these two that always end with many kisses. To onlookers they despise each other all to protect the other. In many ways it closely resembles the original novel with the original conversations but what if that was all an act and their true feelings were expressed in private? That's the plot of this novel.
My 2 reasons for a 4 vs 5 rating is twofold: 1) these two can't keep their hands off each other when alone (really Darcy?) and 2) Darcy Sr went too far.. I didn't enjoy his character and didn't even feel sorry for him in the end which is sad.
Of course Elizabeth and Darcy must find their happy ending but after much threatened scandal and insults. Overall I enjoyed the novel and couldn't put it down until I read how they got through it all!
June 12, 2016
One night, one masked ball that changes everything...
A very interesting proposition. Darcy and Elizabeth meet earlier, his father is still alive, some information is known earlier, but still they have to overcome serious obstacles seemingly insurmountable...
A very entertaining and worthy read.
A very interesting proposition. Darcy and Elizabeth meet earlier, his father is still alive, some information is known earlier, but still they have to overcome serious obstacles seemingly insurmountable...
A very entertaining and worthy read.
February 21, 2017
Wish the ending was longer.
April 20, 2020
3.5 stars
This is a nice light read, nothing too deep. Darcy and Elizabeth are in love and trying to do what is best for the sake of their family. I deducted half a star because of chapter 15. In that chapter, Mr. George Darcy was having a family discussion with Lady Catherine (why was Mr. Collins sitting in on the conversation? ) During this same scene George Darcy clearly states his hate for ALL things Bennet, in my mind I'm thinking, surly Collins will keep quiet considering he is related to the Bennets, but no, he decided to include himself in the family conversation and mention Fitzwilliam Darcy has visited Elizabeth. Then, what really pushed that science over the edge is the servant girl, with a tray full of biscuts, decides to give her two cents and volunteer information that her brother told her that he has seen Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth meeting in the garden a few times (What!?...you're fired.) This one scene killed it for me. Really, the author couldn't think of another way to get that information to George Darcy? It can be something as simple has overhearing the servants gossiping, but to have Collins and the servant girl volunteering information was ludicrous to me.
This is a nice light read, nothing too deep. Darcy and Elizabeth are in love and trying to do what is best for the sake of their family. I deducted half a star because of chapter 15. In that chapter, Mr. George Darcy was having a family discussion with Lady Catherine (why was Mr. Collins sitting in on the conversation? ) During this same scene George Darcy clearly states his hate for ALL things Bennet, in my mind I'm thinking, surly Collins will keep quiet considering he is related to the Bennets, but no, he decided to include himself in the family conversation and mention Fitzwilliam Darcy has visited Elizabeth. Then, what really pushed that science over the edge is the servant girl, with a tray full of biscuts, decides to give her two cents and volunteer information that her brother told her that he has seen Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth meeting in the garden a few times (What!?...you're fired.) This one scene killed it for me. Really, the author couldn't think of another way to get that information to George Darcy? It can be something as simple has overhearing the servants gossiping, but to have Collins and the servant girl volunteering information was ludicrous to me.
March 14, 2022
Romeo and Juliet, with older protagonists. Some old conflict between George Darcy and Mr. Bennet makes it impossible for D&E to marry. The two fathers hate each other, and Mr. Bennet extends his hatred to Darcy, the son. D&E had met anonymously at a masquerade ball two years before. Elizabeth and her friend had sneaked in uninvited, and Darcy happened upon her. Sparks flew. She ran when she discovered who he was. He spent two years trying to find her.
As in canon, Jane gets sick at Netherfield, and Elizabeth goes to tend to her, which gives the couple a chance to snoggle and feel angst about not being able to hook up. One incident did not seem realistic at all. The apothecary has just told Elizabeth that Jane might not make it. She's in tears with anxiety, and what does Darcy do? He French kisses her! While she's agonizing over the possibility of losing her sister. Something's wrong with this picture!
As in canon, Jane gets sick at Netherfield, and Elizabeth goes to tend to her, which gives the couple a chance to snoggle and feel angst about not being able to hook up. One incident did not seem realistic at all. The apothecary has just told Elizabeth that Jane might not make it. She's in tears with anxiety, and what does Darcy do? He French kisses her! While she's agonizing over the possibility of losing her sister. Something's wrong with this picture!
August 20, 2019
Darcy vs Bennet? more like Darcy vs Darcy.
I uuumed and aaahed as to whether to read this book, but I finally took the plunge. I dislike George Darcy being a villain. But an excellent villain he was in this book; a truly horrible man!
When a Darcy of Pemberley and a Bennet of Longbourne fall in love, they are the Regency equivalent of the Juliet Capulet and Romeo Montague;except (thank goodness) neither dies. But there is a lot of secrecy regarding their love for each other, culminating in a betrothal, and even more of two very angry and bitter fathers.
The story is excellent if you can get past evil George Darcy; well written and absorbing. I paid the extra to get the audio feature and it was money ($3.47) well spent. One of my favourite narrators, Steve Zimmerman, bought the story to life.
I highly recommend the book, and go the extra mile and add the audible narration.
I uuumed and aaahed as to whether to read this book, but I finally took the plunge. I dislike George Darcy being a villain. But an excellent villain he was in this book; a truly horrible man!
When a Darcy of Pemberley and a Bennet of Longbourne fall in love, they are the Regency equivalent of the Juliet Capulet and Romeo Montague;except (thank goodness) neither dies. But there is a lot of secrecy regarding their love for each other, culminating in a betrothal, and even more of two very angry and bitter fathers.
The story is excellent if you can get past evil George Darcy; well written and absorbing. I paid the extra to get the audio feature and it was money ($3.47) well spent. One of my favourite narrators, Steve Zimmerman, bought the story to life.
I highly recommend the book, and go the extra mile and add the audible narration.
November 11, 2023
I really wanted to give this book 4 stars, and I would have, were it not for the character of Mr. Darcy senior. Who, in this iteration, is still alive. He is a tyrant and treats his son abominably. Darcy junior walks on egg shells around his father, who has threatened him with disowning him from the family and cutting him off financially if he doesn't marry a woman that the father approves of by the end of the year. Darcy junior has to parse his words with his father, lest he find out that his son is secretly in love with Elizabeth. Add to that that there is a feud between Darcy senior and Mr. Bennet. Apparently, Darcy virtually ruined Mr. Bennet years earlier. So Elizabeth and Darcy are living in a sate of constant stress and drama. The amount of times that Darcy has to bite his tongue while talking to his arrogant and unrealistic father just set my teeth on edge. So I only gave this book 3 stars.
September 25, 2018
A very interesting variation!
In this one, Darcy and Elizabeth meet at a Masquerade! They fall for each other rather quickly, but after Elizabeth learns Darcy's true identity, she runs away. An old feud between Darcy and Elizabeth's fathers makes their connection impossible.
The story was very cute, and I mostly enjoyed it. There were pieces that were just a bit too much for me. Elizabeth and Darcy act sometimes more lustful than in love. All they want to do is kiss and push their bodies together! haha.
But it kind of took me out of the real love story between them.
Overall a decent story!
In this one, Darcy and Elizabeth meet at a Masquerade! They fall for each other rather quickly, but after Elizabeth learns Darcy's true identity, she runs away. An old feud between Darcy and Elizabeth's fathers makes their connection impossible.
The story was very cute, and I mostly enjoyed it. There were pieces that were just a bit too much for me. Elizabeth and Darcy act sometimes more lustful than in love. All they want to do is kiss and push their bodies together! haha.
But it kind of took me out of the real love story between them.
Overall a decent story!
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