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The Abominable Mr. Darcy

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Mr. Darcy was an enigma... until he spoke. Then, he was the enemy.

Miss Elizabeth Bennet's eyes are instantly drawn towards a handsome, mysterious guest who arrives at the Meryton Assembly with the Bingley party. The gentleman destroys her illusions by delivering an insult that turns him from Mr. Divinely Attractive to the Abominable Mr. Darcy.

While Elizabeth sets in motion her strategy for retaliation, Darcy plans to win the campaign being waged in the genteel drawing rooms of Hertfordshire. As more players from Jane Austen's beloved cast of characters enter the fray, complications arise--some with irreversible consequences. Can a truce be called before their hearts become casualties as well? How many times can two people go from enemies to friends and back again before it's too late?

232 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 23, 2016

362 people are currently reading
498 people want to read

About the author

J. Dawn King

21 books183 followers
I go by the name "Joy". There is a well-published author that uses my full name (including the same middle initial). Imagine that!

I also write as Christie Capps. These are all variations of Pride and Prejudice that are about 100-120 pages in length.

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5 stars
343 (30%)
4 stars
413 (36%)
3 stars
289 (25%)
2 stars
69 (6%)
1 star
12 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
Profile Image for Debbie.
1,680 reviews79 followers
February 10, 2017
I have enjoyed the other books I've read by Joy King, and this one definitely earns 5 stars. The plot moves forward differently starting right at the Meryton assembly. Elizabeth spots Mr. Darcy and immediately dubs him Mr. Sublimely Appealing (and other similar monikers) in her head. She dances with Colonel Fitzwilliam, who is also in attendance, and he senses that she would be a perfect match for Darcy, offering to introduce them later. Unfortunately, before that happens, Elizabeth overhears Darcy's insult, given because he thinks Bingley is indicating another lady. Darcy has actually been admiring Elizabeth all night and wishing for an introduction.

Elizabeth determines she is going to mess with his head and prevent him from using his snobby influence to ruin things for Jane and Mr. Bingley. She does a wonderful job of preventing her mother and sisters from screwing things up, too. At Lucas Lodge, she effuses over Miss Bingley, assisting the lady's efforts to stick to Darcy like glue. Meanwhile, Darcy, having been given a dressing down for his rude behavior by Colonel Fitzwilliam, is all prepared to apologize, but Elizabeth never gives him the opportunity. Hah! Take THAT, Mr. Ridiculously Rude!

It's a glorious beginning, and the story continues with a solid plot and a great deal of humor. Katherina (Darcy's horse) plays a pivotal role in placing her rider in thoroughly embarrassing situations. Colonel Fitzwilliam makes a good friend in Hertfordshire. Mr. Collins has all kinds of problems trying to decide which is more important: following Lady Catherine's directive to find a wife, or letting Lady C. know what's going on with her nephew? He botches things for himself royally. Mr. Bennet decides to make some changes at Longbourn with interesting results. Mr. Wickham schemes to create some havoc, as Georgiana comes to stay at Netherfield. Miss Bingley really, REALLY makes a huge mistake with consequences of a very serious nature.

The pairings are well done. Characters are well rounded and given appropriate motivation. I love all the dialogue, as Ms. King succeeds in making it sound reasonably natural and still avoid seeming too modern. This is certainly her best book so far.
Profile Image for Ingie.
1,480 reviews167 followers
February 26, 2017
Review written February 25, 2017

3.6 Stars - Truly amusing with interesting (more straight forward) twist and turns to a 200 years old classic tale

My all time favorite romance story as a P&P variation — WSfV only a freebie + $2. — 7:29 hrs well and pleasant narrated by Stevie Zimmerman.

**********************************************

As always we meet them all.

Mr Darcy & Elizabeth Bennet of course, but also Lizzy's four sisters, her odd hilarious but unforgettable Bennet parents as well as his younger very innocent sister Georgiana. Here are also Darcy's gentleman cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam, our three favorites Bingley siblings, the wallflower Charlotte and her Lucas family and as always this stories creepy flirt Mr. Wickham.

... And last, but not unimportant for this well known plot, dear grumpy cousin Mr Collins and "his" mighty Lady Catherine (and poor pale Anne) from the grand, so much talked about, Rosings Park.
 photo image_zpseddftbuk.jpeg

Gosh, I loooove these characters. (Yeah I know ... a bit star stucked, haha)

Best in this twist of the original so much beloved Jane Austen story:
• That some poor less successful characters (like Charlotte Lucas) succeed and got a grand belivable HEA.
• That we get more of Mr. Darcy's thoughts, ideas and working with himself.
• That we don't have to survive so much ear hurting nagging and whining from Mrs. Bennet.
• That we get some sizzling romantic kisses. — Yay!!

The Adominable Mr. Darcy, is just another light-hearted romantic "same old" entertainment (clean of course), but undoubtedly worthy of my expenses and book time. If you already are a nerdy Austen admirer and want to experience her classics over and over again, do not hesitate - here is a nice enough audiobook variation.

**********************************************

I LIKE - and I sincerely love Lizzy & Mr Darcy and all their friends
Profile Image for Sheila Majczan.
2,689 reviews202 followers
June 12, 2016
First, know that I have read and enjoyed all the books written by Joy Dawn King. This particular one I followed as she was posting chapters but then as she decided to publish it I bought that edition. It is entertaining to read, a page-turner and many times so delightfully amusing. I loved the use of adjectives by the author; and they bring to our notice just how witty Elizabeth Bennet can be. “Abominable” keeps popping up and it is so well used from the beginning to the end as it fits the events and the manner of man.

Following canon loosely Darcy arrives on the scene in Meryton and women are drooling; he is after all a tall, dark, handsome and rich prospect. Then he has to open his mouth. Now he has, as we all expect, made an enemy of one “tolerable, but not handsome enough” young lady. But in this variation Colonel Fitzwilliam has tagged along. His insights, his observations, his advice and, additionally, his befriending Charlotte Lucas (with whom all ODC’s interactions are discussed), we are given a different viewpoint as we watch he takes Darcy to task more than once.

Oh, how ironic it is that Elizabeth takes out her game plan, her wartime strategy, to ward off any interference in the romance she sees budding for her sister, Jane, and in doing so pushes Darcy into the arms of Caroline! Keep him out of Bingley’s sight; don’t let him make any judgments. Elizabeth even makes a bold move to keep her mother and two youngest sisters at home from the gathering at Lucas Lodge. Darcy by now has regretted his words but can’t find a moment which will allow an apology.

I am laughing out loud: Darcy knocked off his horse – not once but twice. (Some aim there, young lady.) Caroline in all her glory trying to prove her excellence as a hostess has to withdraw in shame and sorrow. And does a backbone show up at Netherfield? Collins can’t seem to figure out who is available and who isn’t as a prospect for his bride and then Lady Catherine shows up to storm the Bennet household! Georgiana arrives at Netherfield but Elizabeth can’t figure out why she is not allowed out of the manor. Anne de Bourgh makes a decision and it has benefits for several characters that are not always dealt happy endings. And you don’t think Wickham is not going to poke his nose in to cause ripples.

As the book description relates, the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy goes hot, cold, warm and warmer. Will someone make up my mind for me? Please?

This is an excellent variation of the romance with all its misunderstandings between that dearest of couples: Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. I highly recommend that you read it.
Profile Image for Talia.
970 reviews4 followers
July 18, 2021
I liked this one but nothing stood out. There are some surprises in here but the Charlotte storyline outshone the E & D lovestory by a mile. Should that have happened? I think they should have been equal at least.

Reread: I still agree with the Charlotte storyline being the superior one but I enjoyed this much more this time around. It is well written and fun. Bumped up to 5 stars.

Reread: Short read but I loved Jane's storyline and Charlotte's more than E & D.

Reread: Still love it!
Profile Image for Mary.
573 reviews11 followers
January 21, 2018
4.5*

Dear Reader,

This was a delightful and humorous story with many twists and turns.

What I loved most was the banter shared between Darcy and both Col.Fitz. and Lizzy.
Yes,they are soon on opposing sides with resolutions aplenty to start again on the path to friendship,but their verbal jousts were simply wonderful to read!

Another lovely and quite satisfying facet to this story was the beautifully written friendship between Charlotte and the Col.
I gasped in delightful surprise when the clouds of doubt were cleared and they happily found their HEA!!

With wicked Wickham,a sycophantic Mr Collins and a resolute Lady C. all having their share in the coversation,prepare yourself for deaths,concussion and general mayhem until a HEA is successfully delivered to our dearest couples! Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Meredith (Austenesque Reviews).
997 reviews346 followers
April 21, 2017
The Abominable and The Adorable!

TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation

TIME FRAME: Begins with the Meryton Assembly

MAIN CHARACTERS: Mr. Darcy, Bennet Family, Bingley Family, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Georgiana Darcy, Mr. Collins

SYNOPSIS:

Both Elizabeth and Darcy cannot deny that they are attracted and intrigued by one another at the Meryton Assembly. And even though Darcy still utters his infamous insult, the two quickly form a pack to become friends and start anew. But that friendship is shaken several times due to untrue rumors (about Darcy), officious behavior (Darcy again), and heated tempers (okay, they are both guilty of this one!) and the two part expecting to never meet again. But a distressing report later brings Darcy back to Hertfordshire with all possible haste. Is he too late? Will Elizabeth accept his proposals? Or does she wish him physical harm?

WHAT I LOVED:

- Attracted and Aware: I love how this story began with both Darcy and Elizabeth attracted and interested to each other. Oftentimes Elizabeth is portrayed as disliking Mr. Darcy from the very first moment she sets eyes on him. I enjoyed the novelty of seeing her admire and meditate on his handsome features. And Darcy is quick to notice his heightened interest and the admirable qualities in a young country miss…that is until he finds out which family she comes from!

- Friendships: I love it when Darcy and Elizabeth try to be friends with each other! Especially when both begin the friendship without the expectation of it becoming anything more! In addition, there is another friendship developing in this variation, a friendship between Charlotte Lucas and Colonel Fitzwilliam! I think these two are a very likely pair to become friends – both have a realistic and practical view of the world. And I love how both agreed to be in cahoots with each other to bring Darcy and Elizabeth together! Colonel Fitzwilliam was sooooo adorable with wanting to report all his juicy news and observations to his friend, Charlotte!

- Colonel Fitzwilliam: There were several interesting and unique twists to this story, but I think my favorite would have to be Colonel Fitzwilliam accompanying Mr. Darcy to Netherfield. He causes no small stir to the plot and usual order of events. Where Mr. Bingley is unassuming and unobtrusive, Colonel Fitzwilliam gets all up in Mr. Darcy’s business and is quick to detect his interest in Elizabeth! I loved seeing how he effected the story and propelled it in a new direction. He was definitely my favorite character in this work! In fact, I think the title should be changed to The Abominable Mr. Darcy (and the Adorable Colonel Fizwilliam)!

- Jane Austen Phrases: It is a common practice for authors to sometimes insert Jane Austen’s clever turns of phrase and quotes into their own works. And sometimes authors will play with the phrases and have different characters say them, or use them in a completely different setting. Which sometimes ends up feeling a little forced and unnatural. But that was definitely not the case in this story! Ms. King found such clever and skillful way to incorporate some Jane Austen phrases in her prose. It was artless and subtle! Almost like she did it unintentionally or subconsciously!

WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:

- Slightly Disjointed: I really enjoyed the premise Ms. King created and seeing how her creative twists played out! But I did sort’ve feel that the last couple of chapters were a little too different from the rest of the tale. It might be because of the jump forward in time or because the drama with Lady Catherine felt a little incongruous to me. Either way, I found myself loving the other parts of the book more than I did the last part.

CONCLUSION:

The Abominable Mr Darcy is a splendidly romantic and enjoyable tale that was a true delight to read. This variation would most appeal to readers who are looking for a humorous, lighthearted, and imaginative tale of Darcy and Elizabeth to enjoy!
Profile Image for J. W. Garrett.
1,736 reviews136 followers
July 14, 2017
Chess references, king, queen, pawn

I loved this story. There were times I laughed out loud or giggled like a little girl. J. Dawn King was sneaky with her humor. She created humorous scenes that caught you completely off guard. I nearly snorted my morning coffee through my nose. It was totally unexpected.

The first chapter was a delight as Elizabeth watched the new arrivals at the assembly. She assigned all manner of fabulous adjectives in lieu of names for the tall dark and handsome gentleman from London: Mr. Divinely Attractive, Mr. Heavenly Visage, Mr. Stately Sculpted…etc. How creative and amusing… until he opened his mouth and said his snarky “tolerable” remark that not only Elizabeth heard but her neighbors and friends as well. This set up days of gossipy remarks from her neighbors as his disdain and refusal to stand up with her grew with each retelling.

Mrs. Bennet: she finally saw that she could relax her nerves and manage things better without the disruptive behavior of the two younger girls. She could focus on her two older girls and their chances for a good marriage. And then they could help with securing matches for the younger girls.

Mr. Bennet continued to stay in his book room unless motivated to step out.

Colonel Fitzwilliam traveled with Darcy on this trip and took notice of a young lady in the area. This budding friendship was a surprise and yet very agreeable. He was really smart in watching ODC. He used chess references several times as he watched their maneuvers. Darcy was King, Elizabeth Queen and Caroline was a pawn. Yeah, he was really cute.

Caroline outdid herself in this version. She was determined to show Darcy and everyone else that she was the best candidate for Mistress of Pemberley. She was awful and would not listen even when Bingley and her sister Mrs. Hurst tried to tell her Darcy was not interested. She wanted to demonstrate her prowess as a hostess and got her wish big time. The reveal is a shocker and I’ve not seen it used before. Her dinner will be remembered forever.

This story really deals with motivations: Mr. and Mrs. Bennet wanting to secure Longbourn and marriages for their daughters. Sir William Lucas and wife wanting a marriage for Charlotte that will elevate them with society and St. James. They feel Mr. Collins has connections with Lady Catherine and her brother is the Earl of Matlock. Mr. Collins only wants to serve and do whatever Lady Catherine says.

ODC had a terrible time holding a civil conversation without completely misunderstanding each other. It was so much fun watching them come to terms with their relationship. I loved it. I don’t want to spoil anything by giving it away. It did slow down their progress several times and I groaned with despair of their ever finding their HEA. But then laughed hysterically at the next scene. You have to read it to believe what happened. Knocked Darcy for a loop.

Wickham arrived with the militia and was dealt with rather quickly.

Lady Catherine…you will not believe her actions and consequences.

The relationship between Georgiana and Elizabeth was so sweet. I liked how Elizabeth helped her deal with emotions and feelings that a brother just couldn’t understand.
899 reviews70 followers
May 1, 2017
This was a fun and delightfully entertaining variation on Pride and Prejudice that had many references to military strategy including a quote from "The Art of War" stated by Miss Elizabeth Bennet! Brilliant!

"Pretend inferiority and encourage his arrogance."

As the book description states, all eyes are on the Netherfield party as they enter the Assembly in Meryton. Sir William Lucas struts forth to introduce his family and Mrs. Bennet, with the precision of military strategist, gets four of her daughters introduced as well. Elizabeth not being one of them, watches from a distance as the 'Overtly Gorgeous' and 'Practically Perfect' interacts, until he spoke...then he becomes 'Blatantly Offensive'. With her pride offended from his remarks, she compared Mr. Darcy to a peacock!

"At any moment, he might start shaking his tail feathers and squawk!"

There is so much to love in this story. Colonel Fitzwilliam has a major role in this tale, and he soon finds a friend in Charlotte Lucas, as they try to figure out how Darcy and Elizabeth really feel about each other. The Colonel also calls Darcy on the carpet for his attitude and lack of action in dealing with Anne de Bourgh and Miss Bingley.

Due to Mr. Bennet's indolent ways, Elizabeth feels she must protect her family and views herself as a warrior. She took her father's words to heart and set a battle plan in motion...nothing was going to get between Jane Bennet and Mr. Bingley's budding romance! She had the makings of a General but along the way, she realized she was her mother's daughter!

Georgiana soon arrives and we get to see a lovely relationship build between her and Elizabeth. Miss Bingley is bound and determined to win Mr. Darcy and no one will stand in her way. But then disaster strikes, and all gains are swept away in the tumult.

I highly recommend this novel for it's originality and the emotions that it stirred in me. Oh how my heart swelled!
Profile Image for Eliza Baum.
530 reviews34 followers
February 6, 2017
There were things I liked about this story and things that annoyed me.

On the good side:

-Charlotte and Colonel Fitzwilliam's friendship was a lot of fun, and I loved the way that storyline played out. I'm such a sucker for the Colonel when he's done well.
-I love it when stories bring Georgiana to Hertfordshire, and this was no exception.
-The plotline where Caroline was a really interesting choice that I hadn't seen anywhere, and I enjoyed that.

On the not-so-good side:

-I realize it's the entire schtick of the story, but I hated all the Mr. Whatever Whatever names that Elizabeth had in her head for Darcy. The repetition of it at the assembly just grated on my nerves.
-The characters logic-ed their way through some problems with far too much ease and awareness of exactly what needed to be reviewed/said, such as when Elizabeth talked to Georgiana about Wickham. Elizabeth is smart, but for the amount of time she'd known the situation and her length of acquaintance with Georgiana, it was just too insightful to be believable.
-I didn't feel like Elizabeth and Darcy's cycles of getting along and then fighting again felt all that natural.

3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Profile Image for Les.
2,911 reviews1 follower
December 3, 2016
I apparently started this book in July gave up on it revisited from start in December and finished -Yeah Me!

This is a different P&P variation. Starting at the Assembly in Meryton Lizzy is at first quite taken with Mr. Darcy finding him handsome. When he insults her she is very offended and angry. Her father is shown to be even more indolent than usual. The next evening they are off to the party at the Lucas' but only Lizzy and Jane attend. Lizzy has determined that Jane and Bingley were formed for one another and she spends her evening allowing them to converse.

The pace of this longish book is rather frantic. Things happen quickly and one after the other. There is the death of a minor character, albeit not one you might expect, Darcy going and staying away. A surprising romance for Miss Lucas.Georgiana plays matchmaker
Profile Image for Ree.
1,334 reviews79 followers
March 18, 2021
Great Humour
First read December 29,2018 via Kindle Unlimited (no review, just rated on Amazon)

March 17, 2021 - begin Audiobook

Well written, entertaining dialogue. Didn’t want it to end. I loved the Colonel and Charlotte’s part in this story. I giggled often.
Profile Image for Madenna U.
2,149 reviews1 follower
June 14, 2016
I have read other books by this author, but this has been my favorite of hers. I love the addition of the colonel to the entire book and how the characters evolve. At times it is almost trite, but I will read this one again later!
Profile Image for Nicole Barton Sasser.
564 reviews3 followers
February 26, 2025
Status: Read September 1-7, 2016

Rating: ⭐⭐

Review:
There were enjoyable parts, but the majority of the time this variation barely kept my interest.

My Library Notes:

The Abominable Mr. Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
by J. Dawn King
Kindle Edition, 232 pages
Published June 2, 2016 by Quiet Mountain Press
ASIN: B01G4H1RJU

Mr. Darcy was an enigma… until he spoke. Then, he was the enemy.

Miss Elizabeth Bennet's eyes are instantly drawn towards a handsome, mysterious guest who arrives at the Meryton Assembly with the Bingley party. The gentleman destroys her illusions by delivering an insult that turns him from Mr. Divinely Attractive to the Abominable Mr. Darcy. While Elizabeth sets in motion her strategy for retaliation, Darcy plans to win the campaign being waged in the genteel drawing rooms of Hertfordshire.

As more players from Jane Austen's beloved cast of characters enter the fray, complications arise--some with irreversible consequences. Can a truce be called before their hearts become casualties as well? How many times can two people go from enemies to friends and back again before it’s too late?
Profile Image for Ambrosia.
512 reviews14 followers
got-bored-didn-t-finish
February 23, 2017
I couldn't continue past the first chapter. This is an insult to Jane Austen. In an effort to - what? Make Mr. Darcy more likeable? Relatable? Shallow? - she makes him attracted to Elizabeth immediately based upon her looks alone.

This is typical for a modern romance - love based upon the superficial.

But Pride and Prejudice was so much more. Ms. Austen commented in society's foibles and the hypocrisy of manners.

And Mr. darcy fell in love against his will because of Elizabeth's mind and personality and liveliness of manner. Much more important facets than mere appearance. Her "fine eyes" were attractive because of the intelligence and force of will behind them.

If this had been just another romance, maybe I could stomach it. But as a faux Jane Austen, it is unacceptable.
Profile Image for Sam H..
1,224 reviews59 followers
May 11, 2025
This is a great audiobook. Available on the author's YouTube channel.

I recall not liking it much when I read it the first time 4 years ago. The narrator does a great job of making the story come alive.
Profile Image for Dung.
479 reviews
April 8, 2017
4.5⭐️ Loved the twists and laugh out moments in this novel, especially Darcy and Elizabeth's interactions.
3,440 reviews42 followers
October 16, 2023
I finished this yesterday but I am already a bit hazy about the details. I enjoyed it but doesn't seem like it made that much of an impression. Elizabeth thought Darcy was super handsome at the assembly but then he opened his mouth and became the abominable no man. There was one argument between ODC that seemed a bit overblown and I wasn't entirely convinced about the way Elizabeth (a virtual stranger) solved all Georgiana's problems just like that. The most notable part was an epic hostessing mistake by Miss Bingley - even if Miss B didn't know wouldn't somebody in the kitchen have had a clue?

Contents: minor character death
133 reviews
October 1, 2016
Lots of humour, well paced for the most part, and a few surprises along the way. The story begins at the Meryton Assembly, where Elizabeth covertly watches Darcy as he does the same. During this dance of eyes, a myriad of names flow through her mind for the unknown gentleman, my favorite being Mr. Stately Sculpted. Colonel Fitzwilliam has accompanied his cousin and the Bingleys, and upon meeting and dancing with Elizabeth, feels she would suit Darcy. But before he can make introductions, the infamous insult is delivered when Darcy mistakes which young lady is the one the sister they wish to introduce him to. Now, for Elizabeth, he is the abominable enemy. Fairly soon, she has both he and Miss Bingley running in circles in her professed intention to aid Jane and Bingley become acquainted, but her unspoken aim is pure mischief.

Adjectives are used to a considerable advantage in this book, so much so they definitely aid character and plot development. I also loved the out of character moments, such as both times Darcy was "removed" from his horse.
652 reviews13 followers
October 30, 2018
The start of this book was hilarious... we get some insight into Elizabeth's thinking at the Meryton assembly about Nr Darcy and see how quickly it changes after his insult... in a change, Colonel Fitzwilliam is with the Bingley party and he is a brilliant addition to the group. I really liked his story.

The relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth does not run smoothly but the addition of Georgiana into the mix at Netherfield also makes things more interesting for them.

I've struggled to finish this... after such a promising start, the same type of humour didn't really follow through the book and the story was quite a sedate pace with not a whole lot happening. It's an enjoyable, comfortable read - low angst but not one I raced through.
Profile Image for Tandie.
1,563 reviews249 followers
Read
July 31, 2017
I quit after reading two chapters. I didn't care for the writing style, definitely not Regency era. I'm not a purist, but it just wasn't my cuppa tea.

Elizabeth talks like a silly teenager and keeps calling Darcy nicknames. Mr. Divinely Handsome. Mr. Shapely Shoulders. Mr. Hotpants. Okay, not Hotpants, but you see how unlike Lizzy Bennett she was?

Profile Image for Carol Perrin.
607 reviews28 followers
June 5, 2016
The Abominable Mr. Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

Delightful story about not only Elizabeth and Darcy, Jane and Bingley, but Colonel Fitzwilliam and Charlotte. Love it when her sensible self isn't stuck with the dumb and foolish Collins. To think himself a catch for either of the two girls, three if you count him latching on to Jane minutes after his proposal to Elizabeth. Both Bingley and the Colonel stepped up and stopped his nonsense; however, the dimwitted clergyman thought it was Darcy that Charlotte was betrothed to and wrote to Lady Catherine. Elizabeth and Darcy still had their misunderstandings, made up to become friends, had another misunderstanding, returns with his sister, Georgiana. Georgiana knows he feels stronger affections for Elizabeth than he's willing to acknowledge, so she plays matchmaker even better than Mrs. Bennet. Caroline in another attempt to impress Darcy, serves oysters one meal. After Jane ate several that she really didn't like, but wanted to honor her hostess and Mr. Hurst who ate many, Darcy reveals that oysters should only be eaten if they were a fresh catch. In shame Caroline is sent back to London with Louisa Hurst. Mr. Hurst dies and Jane is really taken sick, so sick in fact that when she finally recovers Bingley's mourning period is almost over. Darcy and Georgiana do not return to Netherfield with Bingley, but return with the Colonel just as Collins returns from Kent. Unfortunately for Collins neither of the two women wanted to be wed to him. Charlotte runs to Elizabeth when Sir William tells her either she marries the oaf or leaves her home. Elizabeth has just refused him. When she sees his advances toward Jane, she picks up a rock to throw at him. Being angry and upset she unfortunately hits Darcy in the head because of her poor aim. Darcy falls from his mare the second time in front of Elizabeth. Dazed and being held by Elizabeth, he mutters that he loves her and faints. Taken to Longbourn's guest room, the apothecary is sent for. Determined that he will recover, but may be in and out of consciousness for awhile and shouldn't be left, Elizabeth and Georgiana spend the most time with Darcy until he's better and able to sit up and carry on a conversation. Elizabeth asks him if what he said the day he was feld by her rock throwing effort and he proposes. She accepts just as a rather loud ranting enters the hallway. Aunt Catherine has arrived madder than a wet when. Georgiana tries to stop her from advancing to Darcy's room, but is removed from her aunt's path. Darcy's bellowing leads her to his room where she is so overwrought with Darcy's announcement, she has an apoplexy and collapses. The Colonel will marry Charlotte in twenty-one days, but the bumbling idiot named Collins thought Darcy was the groom. After Colonel Fitzwilliam lays into him for his sticking his nose into his and Darcy's private business, he threatens him with a duel if he doesn't remove himself back to Kent when Lady Catherine is well enough to travel. Anne is told that she is Mistress of Rosings for the last two years. She asks Richard and Charlotte to come run Rosings. Lady Catherine decides to move to London rather than the Dower's House. Richard, Charlotte, and Anne tired of Collins removed him from Hunsford joining his esteemed patroness in her London home. With whispered plans for their wedding night, Elizabeth, with a wide smile, teases her Fitzwilliam stating he is still an abominable man!
Profile Image for Beth.
914 reviews18 followers
May 16, 2017
I'm still in the process of reading this, and have nearly given up several times. Where is the editor? To start, the author seems to randomly use adjectives from Jane Austen 's books, often inappropriately. Then, the errors such as "piece of mind", and "the man dark eye's", are so distracting.

Update: I finished, and I wasn't any more impressed. While it was mildly interesting to see how these alternative paths for the characters would wind up, it didn't keep me enthralled. I just felt that I should finish. The author continued to use incorrect grammar (such as "her" for "she") and overall didn't seem to have a concept of how characters in that time period should act. And she tried to wrap everything up in a nice package where everyone (except those that we never liked at all) got their HEA.
Profile Image for Melissa.
2,542 reviews268 followers
January 25, 2017
This is my first retelling of pride and prejudice. I normally read books that stick to the story line but give you insights from his and her pOv. I actually really liked how everyone learned there lessons and got there happily ever after. Not as real or as human as the true story but fun to read non the less. I loved the end scene. What is it about us woman, we want more then just a kiss at the end:} Fun book:}
Profile Image for Susan.
7,248 reviews69 followers
April 10, 2023
Although initially attracted to Darcy, his words at the Meryton Assembly result in a plan of attack towards him. But what will be the results of Elizabeth's strategy. In this variation as Colonel Fitzwilliam is also at Netherfield, Darcy has the Colonel's words to response to and help him.
An enjoyable well-written, story with a good plot which overall deserves a 3.5 rating. I liked the greater involvement in the story of the Colonel though his pairing was unacceptable.
Profile Image for Tamra.
219 reviews
June 16, 2016
Great P&P variation

What a great visit with my favorite P&P characters. While the great Jane Austen can't be improved upon, this variation left me happy with a few changes. Mr. Bennett takes charge of his family, Charlotte gets a happily ever after and Miss Bingley goes a little too far this time.... Best of all, great lines like "If it wasn't unmanly, he would have sighed".
Profile Image for James S.
1,432 reviews
June 2, 2019
Fun story

Old book that I’m just found. Good story.

Having Lady Cat recuperating from some medical event and her having no success trying to part Lizzy and Darcy was the high point of the romance.

I recommend this book.
Profile Image for Victoria.
519 reviews7 followers
July 14, 2017
I really loved this story! It was engaging, believable and romantic! It was also the first story to feature a Mr Hurst that I didn't mind too much. It was a very good "what-if" and I felt that the scenarios reacted well to the changes King brought. Sometimes I felt confused/unclear about timelines (Kent, London), but other than that it was great! Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Elin Eriksen.
Author 24 books158 followers
January 26, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this well written and engaging story.
Adding the colonel to the Netherfield party was brilliantly done.
There is also a lot of interaction between ODC which I like. My only wish would have been to add a nice romantic epilogue. I love to see them happy.
Heartily recommend this book
Profile Image for Marina.
41 reviews1 follower
January 23, 2017
I loved this story, it was funny, clever and nicely twisted:) I feel the last couple of chapters were somewhat flatter than the rest of the book, hence the rating 4.5 stars.
Profile Image for Teresa Williams.
556 reviews7 followers
February 21, 2017
Loved it!

This was a wonderful P & P variation, with some unexpected twists! I love Jane Austen's stories, and love a well written variation of these characters that I so love! There were a few minor editing errors, but nothing that interrupted the flow of the story, and because so many books have them, I've stopped grading down for them unless they are intrusive in the storyline. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and recommend it to all Jane Austen lovers!
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