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Love Never Fails
Two determined women—one bored, one desperate. You may not agree with their methods, but their hearts are in the right place. One can hope… Mr. Bennet dies, and Mrs. Bennet's desperation to secure her daughters' futures reaches new levels. When Elizabeth Bennet's home is lost to her, she finds herself in the clutches of a wealthy widow with too much time and money on her hands. Stuck between an obstinate mother and an eccentric woman intent on creating mischief, Elizabeth's only comfort is in Mr. Darcy and his ever-present handkerchief. After a life-altering decision, Fitzwilliam Darcy is on a mission to prove he's changed. But dark secrets cannot stay hidden forever. As Darcy's admiration deepens to love, the past reminds him how undeserving he is of Elizabeth Bennet's heart. Through loss and survival, revelations and discovery, Darcy and Elizabeth learn the meaning of humility, forgiveness, and more importantly — true love. If you like falling in love with Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth as they fall for each other, then you'll love this sweet romance based on Jane Austen's timeless classic, Pride and Prejudice. Read Love Never Fails to satisfy your craving for a clean, sweet Regency romance today! *This cover was updated from the original on 9/29/17. The contents are unchanged.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2016
88 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Joy
47 books209 followersWhen Jennifer isn’t busy dreaming up new adventures for her favorite characters, she is reading, baking, or chasing her twins around the park.
She believes in happy endings, sweet romance, and plenty of intrigue. She writes what she most enjoys reading, so expect lighthearted stories with happy endings and a few laughs.
Born on the beautiful Oregon coast, she traveled all around the world until she finally settled in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador with her husband and two kids.
She believes in happy endings, sweet romance, and plenty of intrigue. She writes what she most enjoys reading, so expect lighthearted stories with happy endings and a few laughs.
Born on the beautiful Oregon coast, she traveled all around the world until she finally settled in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador with her husband and two kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 19, 2016
Dear reader,
From the moment you begin this tale you are confronted with a new and stark reality.
This is mirrored not only in the storyline itself but in the carefully chosen words that are used and serve to give the reader a verbal 'wake up call',a proverbial 'dash of cold water on the face' to make you aware that this book,this writing is new,fresh and needs to be taken seriously.
I loved it!!!
I adored Darcy,empathised with how events seemed to spiral out of control for Elizabeth, laughed at the antics of Lavinia Rutledge, marvelled at the strength of character and common sense of Mrs B and the overall sense of happiness and fun that was embedded in the storyline throughout the book.
I thought the beautiful,heartfelt and sincere proposal could not be topped-I was wrong!
What Darcy presents to Elizabeth at the end was just so sweet,so endearing.....such a beautiful ending to a fantastic story!
I highly recommend this story and trust that you will savour each and every word. Enjoy!
From the moment you begin this tale you are confronted with a new and stark reality.
This is mirrored not only in the storyline itself but in the carefully chosen words that are used and serve to give the reader a verbal 'wake up call',a proverbial 'dash of cold water on the face' to make you aware that this book,this writing is new,fresh and needs to be taken seriously.
I loved it!!!
I adored Darcy,empathised with how events seemed to spiral out of control for Elizabeth, laughed at the antics of Lavinia Rutledge, marvelled at the strength of character and common sense of Mrs B and the overall sense of happiness and fun that was embedded in the storyline throughout the book.
I thought the beautiful,heartfelt and sincere proposal could not be topped-I was wrong!
What Darcy presents to Elizabeth at the end was just so sweet,so endearing.....such a beautiful ending to a fantastic story!
I highly recommend this story and trust that you will savour each and every word. Enjoy!
August 2, 2019
This is the third 5-star book I've rated by Jennifer Joy, who continues to prove herself to be quite the proficient!
This story begins before Bingley & company ever come to Netherfield. Elizabeth is devastated, as her father has suddenly died. Her mother becomes furious when she refuses to marry Mr. Collins, but even securing the Bennets' immediate future at Longbourn isn't sufficient motivation for her to accept that repulsive man's proposal. Elizabeth does everything she can to keep the remaining family together, but Mrs. Bennet makes other arrangements, taking all choice away from her. Elizabeth and Jane are sent to live with the Gardiners in London. Her sister easily fits in there, but Elizabeth feels useless and trapped.
Mr. Gardiner has a slight connection to Mr. Bingley and his sister Caroline, who are dealing with their eccentric aunt and desperately seeking a companion to keep her out of trouble. Elizabeth impulsively volunteers, finds herself in the strange position as a faux "niece" to Lady Rutledge, and the tone of the book lightens considerably from that point on.
Mr. Darcy, meanwhile, has a guilty conscience regarding the plight of the Bennets for some mysterious reason and does his best to help them from a discreet distance. He is surprised when he encounters Elizabeth at the Bingleys' and then continues to be thrown into her company at social events with the unpredictable Lady Rutledge. At first, he believes he watches out for her because he feels responsible for her and her family, but he eventually realizes that he is in love with her.
Just throw canon out the window as you read this, with the characters in decidedly different situations than in the original Pride and Prejudice. Mrs. Bennet changes after her husband's death, showing less grief than Elizabeth finds acceptable, but she actually blossoms in her independence due of the absence of the belittlement she experienced daily from Mr. Bennet. Lydia is more childlike but her mother demonstrates more firmness in disciplining her. Jane and Mr. Bingley keep missing opportunities to meet each other, so their first encounter doesn't occur until fairly late in the book. Caroline fills the role as the most obvious antagonist throughout the story, aiming to marry Mr. Darcy, as usual, though at times she shows signs of cracks in her snooty facade. Colonel Fitzwilliam appears frequently, usually at Darcy's side, and he and Elizabeth find the humor in every shared situation.
The new character, Lady Rutledge, is just delightful. She takes a definite shine to Elizabeth and seems to have some master plan at work despite the apparent insanity of some of her activities. For example, beware when she serves tea because the sugar bowl seems as likely to contain salt as it does sugar!
I found this very entertaining, with a good balance of drama and comedy with even a hint of mystery.
I have two small criticisms: First, Bingley seems predisposed to fall in love with Jane even before meeting her. I think the concept of him preferring a country-bred young gentlewoman to a London socialite is great, but he seems fixated on this woman he's never met. Second, I have a little trouble with the pairing Colonel Fitzwilliam ends up in; just can't see that relationship working out, although I can understand his reasons for it.
Those are relatively minor plot points, though, and the rest of the time characters have easily understandable motivation to act the way they do, especially Elizabeth and Darcy. It's a sweet romance with an unusual plot. Loved it!
This story begins before Bingley & company ever come to Netherfield. Elizabeth is devastated, as her father has suddenly died. Her mother becomes furious when she refuses to marry Mr. Collins, but even securing the Bennets' immediate future at Longbourn isn't sufficient motivation for her to accept that repulsive man's proposal. Elizabeth does everything she can to keep the remaining family together, but Mrs. Bennet makes other arrangements, taking all choice away from her. Elizabeth and Jane are sent to live with the Gardiners in London. Her sister easily fits in there, but Elizabeth feels useless and trapped.
Mr. Gardiner has a slight connection to Mr. Bingley and his sister Caroline, who are dealing with their eccentric aunt and desperately seeking a companion to keep her out of trouble. Elizabeth impulsively volunteers, finds herself in the strange position as a faux "niece" to Lady Rutledge, and the tone of the book lightens considerably from that point on.
Mr. Darcy, meanwhile, has a guilty conscience regarding the plight of the Bennets for some mysterious reason and does his best to help them from a discreet distance. He is surprised when he encounters Elizabeth at the Bingleys' and then continues to be thrown into her company at social events with the unpredictable Lady Rutledge. At first, he believes he watches out for her because he feels responsible for her and her family, but he eventually realizes that he is in love with her.
Just throw canon out the window as you read this, with the characters in decidedly different situations than in the original Pride and Prejudice. Mrs. Bennet changes after her husband's death, showing less grief than Elizabeth finds acceptable, but she actually blossoms in her independence due of the absence of the belittlement she experienced daily from Mr. Bennet. Lydia is more childlike but her mother demonstrates more firmness in disciplining her. Jane and Mr. Bingley keep missing opportunities to meet each other, so their first encounter doesn't occur until fairly late in the book. Caroline fills the role as the most obvious antagonist throughout the story, aiming to marry Mr. Darcy, as usual, though at times she shows signs of cracks in her snooty facade. Colonel Fitzwilliam appears frequently, usually at Darcy's side, and he and Elizabeth find the humor in every shared situation.
The new character, Lady Rutledge, is just delightful. She takes a definite shine to Elizabeth and seems to have some master plan at work despite the apparent insanity of some of her activities. For example, beware when she serves tea because the sugar bowl seems as likely to contain salt as it does sugar!
I found this very entertaining, with a good balance of drama and comedy with even a hint of mystery.
I have two small criticisms: First, Bingley seems predisposed to fall in love with Jane even before meeting her. I think the concept of him preferring a country-bred young gentlewoman to a London socialite is great, but he seems fixated on this woman he's never met. Second, I have a little trouble with the pairing Colonel Fitzwilliam ends up in; just can't see that relationship working out, although I can understand his reasons for it.
Those are relatively minor plot points, though, and the rest of the time characters have easily understandable motivation to act the way they do, especially Elizabeth and Darcy. It's a sweet romance with an unusual plot. Loved it!
May 7, 2016
More like 3.5 stars, but there was something about it that kept me from being able to give it 4 stars. There were a lot of things I liked a great deal, like the way that Darcy and Elizabeth slowly got to know one another, but I felt like there were a lot of little things that were never developed up to their full potential.
This isn't a reread for me, but it was enjoyable enough.
This isn't a reread for me, but it was enjoyable enough.
April 16, 2016
Well done. Lady Rutledge = a Lady Catherine with the wisdom of a sage and the manipulative skills of a diplomat! And here I am in tears at a proposal – everything a young lady could want and definitely not that of Hunsford! (Are there too many exclamation points?) Then Darcy’s secret gift for her at the end…it just had to be that way, so I am not surprised…but pleasantly satisfied.
Yes this story rates five stars. It kept my attention. It provided a tale not told before. And it didn't need to change the behaviors of our dear characters to provide us with entertainment. Part way into the tale we meet a Bingley relative, a Lady Rutledge, Aunt Lavinia, and now watch as she steals the show.
The book description sets the outline for us: Mr. Bennet has died after a trip to Hunsford – why we are not told initially. After being allowed some months to mourn Mr. Collins arrives and Lizzy does as we would expect, knowing our Lizzy from canon. So now, Mrs. Bennet works without consulting any of her family to settle matters as to who will reside with whom. She divides up her daughters as to where she thinks each most likely to find marriage. (No, she has not allowed that goal to be lost, despite reduced circumstances.) Oddly, or maybe not, she and Lydia take their own apartment. (That seemed like a disaster waiting to happen.)
But this story focuses on Elizabeth, who is feeling very unneeded, very unfulfilled, in her residence with the Gardiners. And then she is almost (?) pushed into accepting a situation as a companion. It was with a smile that I read the various reactions in the room as this played out…even Caroline had a reason to befriend Elizabeth in order to make this happen. As she takes on this position, she is cast as a long lost niece in order to maintain her standing in society. So Elizabeth now is thrown into the society of the Bingley family as well as that of Darcy as they travel in the same circles. Reading of Darcy’s observations and interactions with Elizabeth and even Caroline kept my interest as each has a different sense of propriety. Richard Fitzwilliam steps in to counter certain maneuvers and is cast in a role I have not read of him in before.
Certain events are highlights as we travel along: reading the advertisements, a surprise pairing for an “affectionate lady”, an excursion to the Vauxhall Gardens with a balloon ride and a “drama-queen” almost paying the ultimate price to gain her share of the attention. The other shoe does not drop in this story so I am expecting the next book to tell us of Bingley’s goal to find a country bred lady.
This is a book that I would recommend to all those who continue to love, as I do, a well written JAFF romance…and this one did give us those moments without intruding into ODC’s privacy.
Yes this story rates five stars. It kept my attention. It provided a tale not told before. And it didn't need to change the behaviors of our dear characters to provide us with entertainment. Part way into the tale we meet a Bingley relative, a Lady Rutledge, Aunt Lavinia, and now watch as she steals the show.
The book description sets the outline for us: Mr. Bennet has died after a trip to Hunsford – why we are not told initially. After being allowed some months to mourn Mr. Collins arrives and Lizzy does as we would expect, knowing our Lizzy from canon. So now, Mrs. Bennet works without consulting any of her family to settle matters as to who will reside with whom. She divides up her daughters as to where she thinks each most likely to find marriage. (No, she has not allowed that goal to be lost, despite reduced circumstances.) Oddly, or maybe not, she and Lydia take their own apartment. (That seemed like a disaster waiting to happen.)
But this story focuses on Elizabeth, who is feeling very unneeded, very unfulfilled, in her residence with the Gardiners. And then she is almost (?) pushed into accepting a situation as a companion. It was with a smile that I read the various reactions in the room as this played out…even Caroline had a reason to befriend Elizabeth in order to make this happen. As she takes on this position, she is cast as a long lost niece in order to maintain her standing in society. So Elizabeth now is thrown into the society of the Bingley family as well as that of Darcy as they travel in the same circles. Reading of Darcy’s observations and interactions with Elizabeth and even Caroline kept my interest as each has a different sense of propriety. Richard Fitzwilliam steps in to counter certain maneuvers and is cast in a role I have not read of him in before.
Certain events are highlights as we travel along: reading the advertisements, a surprise pairing for an “affectionate lady”, an excursion to the Vauxhall Gardens with a balloon ride and a “drama-queen” almost paying the ultimate price to gain her share of the attention. The other shoe does not drop in this story so I am expecting the next book to tell us of Bingley’s goal to find a country bred lady.
This is a book that I would recommend to all those who continue to love, as I do, a well written JAFF romance…and this one did give us those moments without intruding into ODC’s privacy.
May 2, 2016
4.5 Stars
What if Mr. Bennet dies before the Meryton Assembly and no introductions can be made between the Bennet's, the Bingley's and Mr. Darcy.
Right from the beginning your emotions are engaged as Elizabeth, Jane and Mary have hidden themselves behind a tree to watch the burial of their father. Your heart breaks for Elizabeth and her sisters as they deal with the loss of not only their father but also their home as Elizabeth refuses to marry Mr. Collins. Mrs. Bennet's nerves rise to the forefront and starts making decisions that alters the dynamics of the family.
Before having to leave Longbourn, Elizabeth has been aided twice by Mr. Darcy which affects her opinion of him dramatically from canon. One beautiful quote touched me during one of these times. "You will gain in strength each day that passes until you become so strong that the sadness cannot overwhelm you. You become stronger even than your grief." There is a definite mystery surrounding Mr. Darcy's solicitousness to Elizabeth, the Bennet family and a letter that he has written.
As the family disperses in different directions, Elizabeth's guilt has her accepting the position of companion to Lady Rutledge, Mr. Bingley's eccentric aunt. This keeps throwing her in the path of Mr. Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam and the Bingley's. Lady Rutledge may be eccentric but she is very sharp and very aware of what is going on around her and acts accordingly...some with hilarious consequences.
This is a very entertaining and at times moving story with some surprising twists and turns. I would have to say that Mrs. Bennet's character evened garnered my sympathy and support. I truly liked how Ms. Joy led up to it. There is an epilogue that was beautifully done, however for me though, I felt this book was rather open-ended. I still feel there is more to come...maybe Jane's story along with more of Mrs. Bennet, Lydia, Mary and Kitty. Hint, hint, nudge, nudge...
What if Mr. Bennet dies before the Meryton Assembly and no introductions can be made between the Bennet's, the Bingley's and Mr. Darcy.
Right from the beginning your emotions are engaged as Elizabeth, Jane and Mary have hidden themselves behind a tree to watch the burial of their father. Your heart breaks for Elizabeth and her sisters as they deal with the loss of not only their father but also their home as Elizabeth refuses to marry Mr. Collins. Mrs. Bennet's nerves rise to the forefront and starts making decisions that alters the dynamics of the family.
Before having to leave Longbourn, Elizabeth has been aided twice by Mr. Darcy which affects her opinion of him dramatically from canon. One beautiful quote touched me during one of these times. "You will gain in strength each day that passes until you become so strong that the sadness cannot overwhelm you. You become stronger even than your grief." There is a definite mystery surrounding Mr. Darcy's solicitousness to Elizabeth, the Bennet family and a letter that he has written.
As the family disperses in different directions, Elizabeth's guilt has her accepting the position of companion to Lady Rutledge, Mr. Bingley's eccentric aunt. This keeps throwing her in the path of Mr. Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam and the Bingley's. Lady Rutledge may be eccentric but she is very sharp and very aware of what is going on around her and acts accordingly...some with hilarious consequences.
This is a very entertaining and at times moving story with some surprising twists and turns. I would have to say that Mrs. Bennet's character evened garnered my sympathy and support. I truly liked how Ms. Joy led up to it. There is an epilogue that was beautifully done, however for me though, I felt this book was rather open-ended. I still feel there is more to come...maybe Jane's story along with more of Mrs. Bennet, Lydia, Mary and Kitty. Hint, hint, nudge, nudge...
August 30, 2023
Listened on audible on 2nd read and still enjoy this book. Very different from cannon buy engaging.
June 30, 2024
Great Storyline
Reviewed in Canada on February 23, 2019
I loved this one. Delighted to know a good variation can skip by Wickham with just a slight vague mention. It’s also nice to see my favorite couple’s relationship develop without the angst we often experience. Well written.
June 29, 2024 - Edit: The above review really does not do this book justice. I read it back in 2019 just two months after discovering JAFF and not really writing any substantive reviews back then. The book has been around long enough for many excellent reviews to be written, and I can’t top many of those anyway. If you haven’t managed to get around to reading or listening to this one yet, it’s definitely worthy of your time. Don’t forget, Jennifer Joy’s audiobooks are also available to listen to for free on her YouTube channel.
June 29, 2024 - Audiobook
I’ve had this audiobook for a while and somehow overlooking it, I’ve neglected to listen until now. I’m only sorry I did. I have written so many times how outstanding and brilliant Stevie Zimmerman’s performances are that I’m sure I sound like a broken record, but every time is so well deserved.
Reviewed in Canada on February 23, 2019
I loved this one. Delighted to know a good variation can skip by Wickham with just a slight vague mention. It’s also nice to see my favorite couple’s relationship develop without the angst we often experience. Well written.
June 29, 2024 - Edit: The above review really does not do this book justice. I read it back in 2019 just two months after discovering JAFF and not really writing any substantive reviews back then. The book has been around long enough for many excellent reviews to be written, and I can’t top many of those anyway. If you haven’t managed to get around to reading or listening to this one yet, it’s definitely worthy of your time. Don’t forget, Jennifer Joy’s audiobooks are also available to listen to for free on her YouTube channel.
June 29, 2024 - Audiobook
I’ve had this audiobook for a while and somehow overlooking it, I’ve neglected to listen until now. I’m only sorry I did. I have written so many times how outstanding and brilliant Stevie Zimmerman’s performances are that I’m sure I sound like a broken record, but every time is so well deserved.
August 2, 2019
Starts slowly, ends perfectly
Mr. Bennet dies, Darcy compromise Lizzy twice while being gentlemanly. Nothing is said about the compromises so the story is NOT a forced marriage story.
Instead Lizzy becomes A companion to Caroline’s aunt who uses Lizzy to manipulate Caroline to find her true happiness.
Very well written story, one I will read again. I recommend it highly.
Mr. Bennet dies, Darcy compromise Lizzy twice while being gentlemanly. Nothing is said about the compromises so the story is NOT a forced marriage story.
Instead Lizzy becomes A companion to Caroline’s aunt who uses Lizzy to manipulate Caroline to find her true happiness.
Very well written story, one I will read again. I recommend it highly.
July 7, 2016
Love Never Fails is a variation on Pride and Prejudice that I found quite unique and original. Jennifer Joy is a very creative author and I very much enjoy seeing the new situations she finds for Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy.
I have to say that while listening to this variation on audible.com, I was also reading a very humorous variation by another author. The juxtaposition was quite strange and I have to take care to give this more melodramatic variation its due. It definitely has some angsty aspects, as we are never sure if our dear couple will quite come to the point, but the journey is quite intricate and involved. This makes for a very satisfying read.
In this variation, the Bennet family are unable to attend the Meryton assembly, as they did at the beginning of the original, as Mr. Bennet has died. Elizabeth still refuses Mr. Collins and is faced with the wrath of her mother, and an incredible guilt regarding the break up of her family. The family is feeling the kindness of an anonymous benefactor, but is desperate to find a place of their own.
Unknown to Elizabeth, who is seeking a way to keep the family together, Mrs. Bennet has made her own plans. She places Kitty and Mary with their Aunt and Uncle Philips in Meryton, requests her brother Gardner take Jane and Elizabeth to London, and she sells Mr. Bennet's library of books in order to finance an apartment in London for herself and Lydia. Elizabeth has a couple of opportunities to talk with Mr. Darcy while in Hertfordshire, but the Bennet family has never met the Bingley family, who return to London.
The Bingley family have actually gone back to London to deal with a serious family problem: Lady Lavinia Rutledge, their father's sister. Charles is responsible for his aunt while his parents take a short trip to the Americas in order to search out new business opportunities. Lady Rutledge is, however, quite the handful. She has gotten herself into trouble in London and needs some watching over. With a bit of a twist, Elizabeth is looking for work as a companion, and ends up with the job of watching over the Bingley's aunt.
Lady Lavinia Rutledge is a manipulative, outspoken and daring older woman who, although the bane of the Bingley existence, has earned a spot in the hearts of Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam. Darcy has a secret he is hiding that is causing him great feelings of guilt. He, therefore, is quietly watching over Elizabeth, who is drawn to his compassion and kindness. We can see the two are falling in love. Lady Rutledge is in the background making things happen - and we are not always sure whose side she is on.
Throughout the story the main themes are the guilt keeping our dear couple apart, and the love they have for family and friends which cannot fail. Will they overcome their guilt, acknowledge their love, and find their happy ending?
I enjoyed this story very much and enjoyed the growing friendship and love between Darcy and Elizabeth. There are some other interesting twists regarding the future plans of Mrs. Bennet. I did not give this story 5 stars, however, because there were a couple of aspects to the story that felt a little forced - such as the lack of meeting between Bingley and Jane, and the extreme action taken by Lydia. But, all in all, this was original and well worth reading. A definite recommendation.
I have to say that while listening to this variation on audible.com, I was also reading a very humorous variation by another author. The juxtaposition was quite strange and I have to take care to give this more melodramatic variation its due. It definitely has some angsty aspects, as we are never sure if our dear couple will quite come to the point, but the journey is quite intricate and involved. This makes for a very satisfying read.
In this variation, the Bennet family are unable to attend the Meryton assembly, as they did at the beginning of the original, as Mr. Bennet has died. Elizabeth still refuses Mr. Collins and is faced with the wrath of her mother, and an incredible guilt regarding the break up of her family. The family is feeling the kindness of an anonymous benefactor, but is desperate to find a place of their own.
Unknown to Elizabeth, who is seeking a way to keep the family together, Mrs. Bennet has made her own plans. She places Kitty and Mary with their Aunt and Uncle Philips in Meryton, requests her brother Gardner take Jane and Elizabeth to London, and she sells Mr. Bennet's library of books in order to finance an apartment in London for herself and Lydia. Elizabeth has a couple of opportunities to talk with Mr. Darcy while in Hertfordshire, but the Bennet family has never met the Bingley family, who return to London.
The Bingley family have actually gone back to London to deal with a serious family problem: Lady Lavinia Rutledge, their father's sister. Charles is responsible for his aunt while his parents take a short trip to the Americas in order to search out new business opportunities. Lady Rutledge is, however, quite the handful. She has gotten herself into trouble in London and needs some watching over. With a bit of a twist, Elizabeth is looking for work as a companion, and ends up with the job of watching over the Bingley's aunt.
Lady Lavinia Rutledge is a manipulative, outspoken and daring older woman who, although the bane of the Bingley existence, has earned a spot in the hearts of Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam. Darcy has a secret he is hiding that is causing him great feelings of guilt. He, therefore, is quietly watching over Elizabeth, who is drawn to his compassion and kindness. We can see the two are falling in love. Lady Rutledge is in the background making things happen - and we are not always sure whose side she is on.
Throughout the story the main themes are the guilt keeping our dear couple apart, and the love they have for family and friends which cannot fail. Will they overcome their guilt, acknowledge their love, and find their happy ending?
I enjoyed this story very much and enjoyed the growing friendship and love between Darcy and Elizabeth. There are some other interesting twists regarding the future plans of Mrs. Bennet. I did not give this story 5 stars, however, because there were a couple of aspects to the story that felt a little forced - such as the lack of meeting between Bingley and Jane, and the extreme action taken by Lydia. But, all in all, this was original and well worth reading. A definite recommendation.
April 10, 2016
LOVE NEVER FAILS by Jennifer Joy
This non-canon story opens, sadly, with the funeral of Mr. Bennet. Elizabeth and two of her sisters are watching from a hiding place nearby as women weren't supposed to attend. Fitzwilliam Darcy is also an observer and believes he has a guilty secret that the Bennet ladies know nothing about.
With Mr. Bennet dead, the six women now have very little income and, if unknown cousin Mr. Collins so chooses, they're also homeless. Jane becomes ill and so Mr. Collins proposes to Elizabeth. She refuses of course. Mrs. Bennet doesn't take it well, so no surprise there, but she does start planning for the future immediately. In effect, she splits the family up. Kitty and Mary go to the Phillips in Meryton, Jane and Elizabeth to the Gardiners in London and Mrs. Bennet and Lydia move to their own small apartment also in London.
After a short while with the Gardiners, Jane is quite settled helping care for her cousins but Elizabeth is restless. No long country walks to work off her energy and her father's library sold off. She takes on a post as companion to Lady Lavinia Rutledge who just happens to be Charles Bingley's aunt and a real live wire! The course of true love doesn't run smooth for Darcy and Elizabeth but there are some lovely moments, especially one featuring an ascent in a hot air balloon. Mrs. Bennet is rather a revelation in this.
As always with Jennifer's books, this is a sweet romance and can be recommended for all audiences.
This non-canon story opens, sadly, with the funeral of Mr. Bennet. Elizabeth and two of her sisters are watching from a hiding place nearby as women weren't supposed to attend. Fitzwilliam Darcy is also an observer and believes he has a guilty secret that the Bennet ladies know nothing about.
With Mr. Bennet dead, the six women now have very little income and, if unknown cousin Mr. Collins so chooses, they're also homeless. Jane becomes ill and so Mr. Collins proposes to Elizabeth. She refuses of course. Mrs. Bennet doesn't take it well, so no surprise there, but she does start planning for the future immediately. In effect, she splits the family up. Kitty and Mary go to the Phillips in Meryton, Jane and Elizabeth to the Gardiners in London and Mrs. Bennet and Lydia move to their own small apartment also in London.
After a short while with the Gardiners, Jane is quite settled helping care for her cousins but Elizabeth is restless. No long country walks to work off her energy and her father's library sold off. She takes on a post as companion to Lady Lavinia Rutledge who just happens to be Charles Bingley's aunt and a real live wire! The course of true love doesn't run smooth for Darcy and Elizabeth but there are some lovely moments, especially one featuring an ascent in a hot air balloon. Mrs. Bennet is rather a revelation in this.
As always with Jennifer's books, this is a sweet romance and can be recommended for all audiences.
January 7, 2025
I liked this E&D, their characters and interactions, but the idea of an older, wealthy woman pulling so many strings to have her own way... And she didn't see how abhorrent Caroline's behavior really was, and said behavior was fixed that quickly? Don't get me started on Mrs. B and that story line...
2025- I wrote a note to myself while listening to this on Youtube and then looked up my review.
I feel the exact same way. The two women might think their hearts were in the right place, but manipulation to get what they wanted makes me ill.
Elizabeth was not alone, but she wasn't cared for by her family. If Mrs Bennet was punishing her, it was not in any way Elizabeth's responsibility to 'save' the family.
2025- I wrote a note to myself while listening to this on Youtube and then looked up my review.
I feel the exact same way. The two women might think their hearts were in the right place, but manipulation to get what they wanted makes me ill.
Elizabeth was not alone, but she wasn't cared for by her family. If Mrs Bennet was punishing her, it was not in any way Elizabeth's responsibility to 'save' the family.
April 7, 2016
Before I bought this book I tried a sample and in my mind I sketched out where I thought the story was going. I was completely wrong....
This version is very different from canon. With Mr. Bennet dying, Lizzy taking the job as a companion to Bingley's Aunt, who is a Lady.
If I had to sum it up it is a story a lack of communication and poorly thought out snap decisions. Darcy's angst and 'pride' are contrived. Most of the Bennet sisters are all but absent from the story.
This version is very different from canon. With Mr. Bennet dying, Lizzy taking the job as a companion to Bingley's Aunt, who is a Lady.
If I had to sum it up it is a story a lack of communication and poorly thought out snap decisions. Darcy's angst and 'pride' are contrived. Most of the Bennet sisters are all but absent from the story.
June 1, 2016
A lot of fun, although folks are moving off-stage way too much and leaves you guessing at times...not in a good way. Also, Darcy's infatuation with Elizabeth begins in an utterly improbable way. Lady Rutledge is a hoot! The puppet mistress could do so much more. Hope we see other stories featuring her character.
April 11, 2016
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The first chapter of Love Never Fails was a true surprise for me. I have read almost every book Jennifer Joy has published, and for that reason I am quite familiar with her writing, but the tone of this latest release is very different from her previous works and her writing versatility surprised and amazed me.
In this book Mr. Bennet dies before the Meryton Assembly occurs and the first scene is at his funeral. I was immediately drawn to the environment, the story and the characters. There is an intensity and sadness in these first chapters that transported me into the book and I could not stop reading, it felt as if I was compelled to do so. I have enjoyed many, many scenes in the book, but the first scene was definitely my favorite as it was the one that marked me the most.
Of course the characteristic humor in Jennifer Joy’s writing is still present, namely in the comments Mrs. Bennet makes about Elizabeth’s marriage prospects. I really laughed when she said ”Lizzy shall marry whomever she pleases, so long as she marries. With her being so choosy, I tough it best for her to have a wide selection from which to choose”, but there is also a deeper and insightful component in her writing that I truly loved.
With Mr. Bennet dying before the Meryton Assembly, the storyline changes and the first encounter of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy is quite different. They meet at Oakham Mount, there are no words exchanged, yet everything is said through their eyes and their actions. I would describe this encounter as perfect! We can feel the intensity of this scene as if we were living it, and if you are used to read my reviews, you know there is nothing more I like then a book that has the ability to make me feel.
Love Never Fails is in my opinion, one of Jennifer Joy’s most romantic books. Apart from the initial chapters, the scene where Elizabeth hurts her ankle is one of my favorites. I felt she and Mr. Darcy connected in a very intimate way. They shared a moment that was not only very important for both, but also private, shared between them and no one else.
Considering the events, Elizabeth is not her joyful self, but her character remains very much the same. She still refuses Mr. Collins, and after so many variations where Elizabeth sacrifices herself to save her family, knowing that she would still refuse Mr. Collins in these reduced circumstances is refreshing. I never believed Elizabeth to be so altruist to the point of marrying him to save her family, so this choice felt very natural to me.
I have also enjoyed Mrs. Bennet in this book, especially in the months following Mr. Bennet’s death. She was not hysterical as usual; she was her true self but in a state of mourning, she was still invested in marrying her daughters but is a less hysterical and more organized and reasonable fashion.
Love Never Fails is a story of hope in a better future, of believing that love is worth waiting for and that it will come, sooner or later. The best example of this is Mrs. Bennet, who was also entitled to her prince charming :)
I enjoyed this book very much and I’m curious to see how Jennifer Joy’s writing will evolve in her next novel.
The first chapter of Love Never Fails was a true surprise for me. I have read almost every book Jennifer Joy has published, and for that reason I am quite familiar with her writing, but the tone of this latest release is very different from her previous works and her writing versatility surprised and amazed me.
In this book Mr. Bennet dies before the Meryton Assembly occurs and the first scene is at his funeral. I was immediately drawn to the environment, the story and the characters. There is an intensity and sadness in these first chapters that transported me into the book and I could not stop reading, it felt as if I was compelled to do so. I have enjoyed many, many scenes in the book, but the first scene was definitely my favorite as it was the one that marked me the most.
Of course the characteristic humor in Jennifer Joy’s writing is still present, namely in the comments Mrs. Bennet makes about Elizabeth’s marriage prospects. I really laughed when she said ”Lizzy shall marry whomever she pleases, so long as she marries. With her being so choosy, I tough it best for her to have a wide selection from which to choose”, but there is also a deeper and insightful component in her writing that I truly loved.
With Mr. Bennet dying before the Meryton Assembly, the storyline changes and the first encounter of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy is quite different. They meet at Oakham Mount, there are no words exchanged, yet everything is said through their eyes and their actions. I would describe this encounter as perfect! We can feel the intensity of this scene as if we were living it, and if you are used to read my reviews, you know there is nothing more I like then a book that has the ability to make me feel.
Love Never Fails is in my opinion, one of Jennifer Joy’s most romantic books. Apart from the initial chapters, the scene where Elizabeth hurts her ankle is one of my favorites. I felt she and Mr. Darcy connected in a very intimate way. They shared a moment that was not only very important for both, but also private, shared between them and no one else.
Considering the events, Elizabeth is not her joyful self, but her character remains very much the same. She still refuses Mr. Collins, and after so many variations where Elizabeth sacrifices herself to save her family, knowing that she would still refuse Mr. Collins in these reduced circumstances is refreshing. I never believed Elizabeth to be so altruist to the point of marrying him to save her family, so this choice felt very natural to me.
I have also enjoyed Mrs. Bennet in this book, especially in the months following Mr. Bennet’s death. She was not hysterical as usual; she was her true self but in a state of mourning, she was still invested in marrying her daughters but is a less hysterical and more organized and reasonable fashion.
Love Never Fails is a story of hope in a better future, of believing that love is worth waiting for and that it will come, sooner or later. The best example of this is Mrs. Bennet, who was also entitled to her prince charming :)
I enjoyed this book very much and I’m curious to see how Jennifer Joy’s writing will evolve in her next novel.
March 16, 2018
Completely different journey for ODC
This story is truly a variation for Elizabeth and Darcy. The story opens with Mr. Bennet's funeral. Very little time is wasted on Mr. Collins, only his proposal and Elizabeth's refusal.
Lizzy becomes companion to the Bingleys' aunt so she can be useful and occupied. Although she is enamored with Mr. Darcy, she assumes that her employment as a companion has made her ineligible for marriage to a man of his standing.
I enjoyed reading this well-written book as well as other variations by this author.
9
This story is truly a variation for Elizabeth and Darcy. The story opens with Mr. Bennet's funeral. Very little time is wasted on Mr. Collins, only his proposal and Elizabeth's refusal.
Lizzy becomes companion to the Bingleys' aunt so she can be useful and occupied. Although she is enamored with Mr. Darcy, she assumes that her employment as a companion has made her ineligible for marriage to a man of his standing.
I enjoyed reading this well-written book as well as other variations by this author.
9
June 7, 2019
Darcy is lovely all the way through this variation of P&P, he displays no pride - or if he does, it's not seen by Lizzy, who likes him straight away. This made a nice change, to be able to love Darcy right from the first instance of meeting him. All the obstacles are external rather than from Lizzy and Darcy themselves.
Darcy displays a little more lust than love, which always makes me crazy in these JAFFs, where he tends to obsess over the curve of her neck, the shape of her lips, the longing to kiss her, yadda yadda... Why is it always like this? Darcy gets all hot under the collar for Lizzy, but she can fall in love with his honour and kindness and loyalty and only very occasionally muses on the fact that he's a handsome man. Bah. Well anyway, that's just my niggling complaint. I always have at least one...
In this version of P&P Mrs Bennet is nicer, Jane and Bingley are only in the same room at the very end of the story, Lydia is a spoiled madam, there's only a passing reference to Wickham, and Miss Bingley is surprisingly sought after.
It's a pleasant read, I did enjoy it but it didn't really stand out from any other JAFF for me.
Darcy displays a little more lust than love, which always makes me crazy in these JAFFs, where he tends to obsess over the curve of her neck, the shape of her lips, the longing to kiss her, yadda yadda... Why is it always like this? Darcy gets all hot under the collar for Lizzy, but she can fall in love with his honour and kindness and loyalty and only very occasionally muses on the fact that he's a handsome man. Bah. Well anyway, that's just my niggling complaint. I always have at least one...
In this version of P&P Mrs Bennet is nicer, Jane and Bingley are only in the same room at the very end of the story, Lydia is a spoiled madam, there's only a passing reference to Wickham, and Miss Bingley is surprisingly sought after.
It's a pleasant read, I did enjoy it but it didn't really stand out from any other JAFF for me.
April 10, 2016
Adding an original character into an established cast can make or break a story, and in this case it is definitely made with Bingley's aunt. I think Lady Lavinia has become my new favorite original character in a supporting role. She is a driving force, actually pretty surprisingly subtle considering her outward demeanor, in Elizabeth's recovery after her father's death. In fact, she positively impacts everyone in her influence, even if it is hidden behind her mischievous, impertinent manner. If anyone has read David Eddings, she strongly reminds me of a female Belgarath, without the magic of course. Picture Elizabeth at least thirty years older with a title, then ramp the impertinence up by a factor of ten.
I know this does not say much about the plot, but I feel it truly needs to be read without spoilers to be fully enjoyed. It is definitely more of a character piece, but what delightful characters!
I know this does not say much about the plot, but I feel it truly needs to be read without spoilers to be fully enjoyed. It is definitely more of a character piece, but what delightful characters!
June 12, 2016
Elizabeth refuses to marry Collins after her fathers demise which occurs the evening of the Meryton assembly (thus Darcy and Bingley don't meet the Bennet girls). Darcy had met Mr Bennet at Hunsford previously and feels guilty over his treatment of him so he assisted him back to London where he learned about his favourite daughter Lizzy. Darcy's guilt causes him to reach out and help the Bennets and try to become Elizabeth's friend. Elizabeth becomes a companion to Bingleys hilarious and troublesome aunt as she doesn't feel at use with the Gardiners. Bingleys aunt takes a liking to Elizabeth and it becomes clear that she is a matchmaker though not in the traditional sense. She has plans for Caroline and Elizabeth. Love never fails in this novel.
May 6, 2016
Always love reading about Darcy and Elizabeth. I had quite a few issues with this book. It was well-written, but personally there were things I didn't care for. Lizzie's father dies and she goes to be a companion for Charles and Caroline's eccentric aunt. She calls her Eliza - I'm sorry, I always equate that name with Caroline calling her that, knowing that she hates it. The aunt was very strange, she seemed kind of bipolar to me, sometimes nice and friendly, other times autocratic. Lizzie seemed a little weak to me, always wondering if Darcy was going to be at things she was going to, etc. And the person that Richard Fitzwilliam ended up with? Not in a million years!!!
May 24, 2016
Well this was quite different! At first I confess that I was a bit apprehensive about continuing this book as Darcy and Elizabeth do not meet as originally written and I love how they met. The story was a bit unusual but not bad, not bad at all. The addition of characters like Lady Rutledge and the whats his face count for Mrs. Bennet was a nice touch. I especially like the ploys and machinations employed by Lady Rutledge for the marrying off of her niece. Though I did not see Colonel Fitz and Caroline together. In all a good book but not something I'd pick up again.
April 9, 2016
Great story
Truly a wonderful read, with a well thought out storyline. One to add to your library in order to read again and again.
Truly a wonderful read, with a well thought out storyline. One to add to your library in order to read again and again.
August 14, 2016
Just lovely
I truly enjoyed this. An instantly kind and compassionate Darcy is a thing of wonder. This warmed my heart and I enjoyed every word!
I truly enjoyed this. An instantly kind and compassionate Darcy is a thing of wonder. This warmed my heart and I enjoyed every word!
October 17, 2017
If you are looking for a book that follows P&P story line, this one isn't the one. It is definitely a variation and it also contained nods to other Austen books. I noticed Sense and Sensibility as well as Persuasion but there might have been others that I missed. I enjoy Jennifer Joy's writing. I found a lot of humor in the book and had a number of laugh out loud moments. Lady Rutledge is a hoot. I thought her antics very entertaining. Some aspects of the story didn't seem to get finished in this book making me wonder if some people might get their own book at some point (Or maybe already have but I haven't read them yet?). Lydia's problems don't really get dealt with after Darcy saves her and maybe Caroline and Colonel Fitzwilliam? Jane and Bingley as a couple weren't even part of this book since they didn't meet until the end. It would be fun to see more books with Lady Rutledge in them.
I don't always agree with characterizations in variations but try to set aside my own prejudices to allow the author to make the characters who he/she wants them to be. This one had some interesting differences.
I thought the audio book reader did a good job using different voices for the characters but with my particular speaker system I had a harder time hearing the men's deeper voices sometimes. Had to have my volume up really high. But that might just be due to my system or settings.
I received this audio book in exchange for a review.
I don't always agree with characterizations in variations but try to set aside my own prejudices to allow the author to make the characters who he/she wants them to be. This one had some interesting differences.
I thought the audio book reader did a good job using different voices for the characters but with my particular speaker system I had a harder time hearing the men's deeper voices sometimes. Had to have my volume up really high. But that might just be due to my system or settings.
I received this audio book in exchange for a review.
July 29, 2023
I have read/listened to many of Jennifer Joy's Austen inspired books. I have to say that Love Never Fails is now one my favorites of hers.
The journey for our main couple, Darcy and Elizabeth, starts with a tragedy and while I know for some that may be a little hard, I have to say that the way in which Elizabeth and Darcy are able to come to know one another while navigating the emotional rollercoaster of grief was very touching and beautiful. There was so much vulnerability as Darcy, who has experienced his fair share of grief, looks for ways big and small to support Elizabeth. There were so many quiet and tender moments that began to lay the foundation for the deep love the pair ultimately come to feel for each other and it was a delight as a reader to experience.
I did also enjoy the opportunities for lightheartedness through the original character of Mr. Bingley's Aunt Lavinia, who is an outspoken widow that does as she pleases and has no qualms about scheming if it means getting what she wants. She keeps Elizabeth and Darcy on their toes and ultimately helps give them the final 'nudge' to embrace what they want from each other.
In this book, I am once again reminded why Darcy is and always will be one of my original favorite heroes. Between the handkerchief and book/library scenes, my heart was just melting at the devoted solemnity of this man.
Once again, Stevie Zimmerman knocks it out of the park in reading this audiobook. If you are looking for an Austen twist on the classic that has a wonderful blend of sad and sweet, this is a read for you. One of the more poignant quotes that stuck with me at the end--"Grief is the price we pay for loving so deeply." What a beautiful way to capture to the impact of loving someone wholeheartedly.
The journey for our main couple, Darcy and Elizabeth, starts with a tragedy and while I know for some that may be a little hard, I have to say that the way in which Elizabeth and Darcy are able to come to know one another while navigating the emotional rollercoaster of grief was very touching and beautiful. There was so much vulnerability as Darcy, who has experienced his fair share of grief, looks for ways big and small to support Elizabeth. There were so many quiet and tender moments that began to lay the foundation for the deep love the pair ultimately come to feel for each other and it was a delight as a reader to experience.
I did also enjoy the opportunities for lightheartedness through the original character of Mr. Bingley's Aunt Lavinia, who is an outspoken widow that does as she pleases and has no qualms about scheming if it means getting what she wants. She keeps Elizabeth and Darcy on their toes and ultimately helps give them the final 'nudge' to embrace what they want from each other.
In this book, I am once again reminded why Darcy is and always will be one of my original favorite heroes. Between the handkerchief and book/library scenes, my heart was just melting at the devoted solemnity of this man.
Once again, Stevie Zimmerman knocks it out of the park in reading this audiobook. If you are looking for an Austen twist on the classic that has a wonderful blend of sad and sweet, this is a read for you. One of the more poignant quotes that stuck with me at the end--"Grief is the price we pay for loving so deeply." What a beautiful way to capture to the impact of loving someone wholeheartedly.
May 24, 2018
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, Mr. Bennet passes away on the day of the Meryton assembly, leaving his five daughters nearly destitute. Mr. Collins offers marriage to Lizzy and she refuses, knowing that her family will be forced to leave Longbourn, but also that her father would never have consented to the match. When Lizzy finally meets Mr. Darcy, his kind acts and manner endear him to her. She longs to know more about him, but Lizzy and her family are forced to leave Longbourn soon after. When Lizzy takes a position as a companion to a kind but eccentric woman, she's thrown into Mr. Darcy's company, but can he still befriend Lizzy now that her station in life is so far below his?
This was a very sweet variation that I've listened to twice now. I love variations that allow for some character growth for the rest of the Bennet family. We don't get to see Mary or Kitty, and Jane is already perfection itself, but I loved the evolution of Mrs. Bennet's character. There's an all new character, Lady Rutledge, a meddling but kind woman who leads to some hilarious scenes. I can imagine Jane Austen writing a character just like her.
There's not much angst between our couple, just plenty of very sweet moments. Lizzy's spirit was a bit muted in this story, she's drowned in feelings of sorrow and guilt which were portrayed very well. Darcy was so kind and understanding, relating his own experiences with his parents and showing her that life can still contain joy. I loved every moment they were on the page together.
The narration was perfect, as always, Stevie Zimmerman IS Lizzy and Darcy for me. She has the perfect voice for both of them. This was my second time listening to this one, and I'll be visiting it again soon!
This was a very sweet variation that I've listened to twice now. I love variations that allow for some character growth for the rest of the Bennet family. We don't get to see Mary or Kitty, and Jane is already perfection itself, but I loved the evolution of Mrs. Bennet's character. There's an all new character, Lady Rutledge, a meddling but kind woman who leads to some hilarious scenes. I can imagine Jane Austen writing a character just like her.
There's not much angst between our couple, just plenty of very sweet moments. Lizzy's spirit was a bit muted in this story, she's drowned in feelings of sorrow and guilt which were portrayed very well. Darcy was so kind and understanding, relating his own experiences with his parents and showing her that life can still contain joy. I loved every moment they were on the page together.
The narration was perfect, as always, Stevie Zimmerman IS Lizzy and Darcy for me. She has the perfect voice for both of them. This was my second time listening to this one, and I'll be visiting it again soon!
June 14, 2025
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. This is a Pride and Prejudice variation. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. If you like falling in love with Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth as they fall for each other, then you'll love this sweet romance, and it will satisfy your craving for a clean, sweet Regency romance. Two determined women, one bored, one desperate. You may not agree with their methods, but their hearts are in the right place, one can hope.
Mr. Bennet dies, and Mrs. Bennet's desperation to secure her daughters' futures reaches new levels. When Elizabeth Bennet's home is lost to her, she finds herself in the clutches of a wealthy widow with too much time and money on her hands. Stuck between an obstinate mother and an eccentric woman intent on creating mischief, Elizabeth's only comfort is in Mr. Darcy and his ever-present handkerchief. After a life-altering decision, Fitzwilliam Darcy is on a mission to prove he's changed, but dark secrets cannot stay hidden forever. As Darcy's admiration deepens to love, the past reminds him how undeserving he is of Elizabeth Bennet's heart. Through loss and survival, revelations and discovery, Darcy and Elizabeth learn the meaning of humility, forgiveness, and more importantly, true love. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. This is a Pride and Prejudice variation. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. If you like falling in love with Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth as they fall for each other, then you'll love this sweet romance, and it will satisfy your craving for a clean, sweet Regency romance. Two determined women, one bored, one desperate. You may not agree with their methods, but their hearts are in the right place, one can hope.
Mr. Bennet dies, and Mrs. Bennet's desperation to secure her daughters' futures reaches new levels. When Elizabeth Bennet's home is lost to her, she finds herself in the clutches of a wealthy widow with too much time and money on her hands. Stuck between an obstinate mother and an eccentric woman intent on creating mischief, Elizabeth's only comfort is in Mr. Darcy and his ever-present handkerchief. After a life-altering decision, Fitzwilliam Darcy is on a mission to prove he's changed, but dark secrets cannot stay hidden forever. As Darcy's admiration deepens to love, the past reminds him how undeserving he is of Elizabeth Bennet's heart. Through loss and survival, revelations and discovery, Darcy and Elizabeth learn the meaning of humility, forgiveness, and more importantly, true love. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
August 7, 2025
I enjoyed this whilst listening to the audiobook ... 3.5 stars. Upon finishing, if I were asked to summarize the story though ... it suffers a bit upon examination.
Traditional 3rd person - both Elizabeth and Darcy's POV. Past tense.
While I don't generally recap for reviews. I've decided to do so for these JAFF for my own memory (they all tend to blend together!) So some of the things that made this one stand out ... SPOILERS
The cover image and title are fine, but nothing that will stand out in my memory.
Text available on KindleUnlimited. Audio on Hoopla.
Traditional 3rd person - both Elizabeth and Darcy's POV. Past tense.
While I don't generally recap for reviews. I've decided to do so for these JAFF for my own memory (they all tend to blend together!) So some of the things that made this one stand out ... SPOILERS
The cover image and title are fine, but nothing that will stand out in my memory.
Text available on KindleUnlimited. Audio on Hoopla.
October 1, 2019
It was very enjoyable. I did not notice inconsistencies in this book by Jennifer Joy as I have sometimes noted in others of her works. I found this P&P variation different, but highly enjoyable. I was worried part way through the book that it was building up to a horrid fall out that would only be resolved right before the end. I could see no cause for such a thing to happen, but was worried from the way it was written that it might be the case. I'm happy to say that there was not a crazy, unfounded fall out. Therefore, I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2017
Fluff
This was a cute story, but it didn't have a whole lot of substance. I wasn't a fan that Darcy met Elizabeth after her father's death. I felt like there wasn't any real conflict in the book. There was nothing keeping them apart really. Darcy doesn't struggle with his pride and Wickham plays no role in the story. Bingley doesn't even meet Jane until the last few chapters. It was an ok read but I wanted more substance.
This was a cute story, but it didn't have a whole lot of substance. I wasn't a fan that Darcy met Elizabeth after her father's death. I felt like there wasn't any real conflict in the book. There was nothing keeping them apart really. Darcy doesn't struggle with his pride and Wickham plays no role in the story. Bingley doesn't even meet Jane until the last few chapters. It was an ok read but I wanted more substance.
April 11, 2019
This book was funny. I really enjoyed the antics of Lady Lavinia and how she kept trying to put Elizabeth or Darcy down in front of the other one. This book was quite enjoyable. It was sad to see Mrs Bennett wasn't as attached to her husband as one would have thought, I did understand her changing and being more of a parent to Lydia. We also were able to meet the Bingley's parents.
I would suggest this book to anyone who enjoys this period of book.
I would suggest this book to anyone who enjoys this period of book.
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