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Obligation and Redemption: An Alternative Journey Through Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice
Mr. Darcy had lived his life free of the vices that often ruled the hearts and minds of his contemporaries, enjoying the benefits of pride in the strength of his own virtue. He knew that if anyone had reason for confidence, he had more: his lineage was impeccable, a Cambridge graduate, a gentleman; as to integrity, blameless. Under his rule, his country estate had prospered beyond any point in its long history; every decision he made had affected hundreds of livelihoods for the good. He was a most conscientious brother, sacrificing so much for his sister’s benefit. And then he took the most honourable route and gave up his plans for marriage to save a family utterly unconnected to himself.
And yet, Darcy cannot find peace. His world begins to unravel before his eyes as he desperately tries to regain control. Upon connecting himself to Elizabeth Bennet, his faults are laid bare before him as he fails time and again. At first he lays blame on the woman who, he is certain, contrived his destiny, but will he ever be able to see how his own pride endeavours to destroy his happiness? And will he ever discover the unmerited freedom that has eluded him throughout his life?
And yet, Darcy cannot find peace. His world begins to unravel before his eyes as he desperately tries to regain control. Upon connecting himself to Elizabeth Bennet, his faults are laid bare before him as he fails time and again. At first he lays blame on the woman who, he is certain, contrived his destiny, but will he ever be able to see how his own pride endeavours to destroy his happiness? And will he ever discover the unmerited freedom that has eluded him throughout his life?
520 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 28, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
August 24, 2016
First of all, this book isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for a light, fluffy romance, this definitely isn’t it. If you don’t like stories with a strong religious-centered theme, you won’t like this. The same is true if you dislike passages taken verbatim from Pride and Prejudice. And you’ll really hate it if you object to rape and other uncomfortable sexual content.
Much of the story is extremely dark, as it is clearly intended to be. If you’ve read other reviews, you already know that Darcy is a despicable character through much of the book, and so is most of his family with the exception of Colonel Fitzwilliam.
But that’s the whole point. It is a tale of Christian forgiveness and redemption available to those who turn to God. This includes even the worst of sinners who commit the most unpardonable sins. Prayer features strongly in the plot, and many Biblical passages (as well as excerpts by famous authors ranging from Alexandre Dumas to Ann Radcliffe) precede each chapter.
Fitzwilliam Darcy’s character is not completely inconsistent with canon, but his negative qualities are taken to extremes. He is admirable to the extent that he is a fair-minded, responsible Master of Pemberley who doesn’t gamble, drink or keep a mistress. (In fact, it’s implied that he’s a virgin himself on his wedding night.) He’s a good brother to Georgiana. However, he believes himself to be superior to anyone not of his upper social sphere and is blind to his own hypocrisy.
When Darcy finds himself honor-bound to marry Elizabeth, he only does his duty grudgingly. He believes that she entrapped him, refusing to recognize that her actions saved his life or that she’s dreading this marriage as much as he is. Because he feels that he saved her and her inferior family from ruination, he considers himself entitled to treat her like a possession.
While Elizabeth has her own faults, she is a woman of faith who prays in times of need and tries to seek God’s guidance in the worst of circumstances. Her low self-esteem from years of her mother’s disparagement, as well as her quick temper, leads her to respond negatively to Darcy even when he’s not being insufferable. In virtually every instance, she regrets her knee-jerk reaction afterward and vows to do better next time.
Between his arrogance and her over-sensitivity, the two clash horribly whenever they’re together. It is honestly painful to read. Each believes they’re trying their hardest to get along. Darcy wants to mold her into the perfect wife and stamp out her independence and wild ways, while Elizabeth grasps at whatever she can to retain her self-respect. We are allowed into both of their thoughts and given insight into how Darcy justifies his high-handedness.
It’s worth noting that, while in London, Elizabeth goes to church each Sunday with the Gardiners and tries to include Darcy. He refuses because he will not go near her relations or be seen in a church in Cheapside. But he doesn’t go to church elsewhere except on holidays (such as Christmas) with his Fitzwilliam relations, and it seems everyone there is more interested in watching others and being seen than they are with prayer and worship.
The rape is a significant turning point because Darcy finally has done something so horrific that he disgusts even himself, and it leads him to truly examine himself and his values for the first time. He’s not yet at the point of conversion, but he is finally seeking for the Truth. The result is that he brings Elizabeth to Pemberley and voluntarily leaves, spending a month in London doing some serious soul-searching. There, he faces a situation where he must make a choice, and he prays for the first time in the book.
When he returns to Pemberley, the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth improves dramatically, and the reader takes a sigh of relief. Briefly. A number of villains (Wickham, Lady Catherine, Darcy’s cousin Langston) interfere to create difficulties for the couple and shake their barely established trust in each other. It’s a test of faith by fire, and once again the reader is plunged into dark, murky waters.
As a novel, it is just WAY too long. Even without cutting any story elements, there is a lot of redundancy. I lost count of the number of times it’s mentioned that Darcy believes Elizabeth manipulated circumstances to force him to marry her, and that’s just one example. However, some story elements SHOULD be cut that would not adversely affect the basic plot. I mean, it doesn’t take so many incidents where Darcy’s lack of respect for Elizabeth is demonstrated to give the reader the message. There are too many contentious conversations between him and Elizabeth showing they don’t communicate effectively.
The scenes where Darcy and Elizabeth are finally in synch with each other are lovely. I don’t necessarily think there needs to be more of them, but eliminating a lot of the more painful details of their miserable early marriage would at least create a better balance between the light and the dark. As is, I would say about 3/4th of the book is very, very dark.
I will say that I was not happy with the amount of guilt that Elizabeth feels, since she is obviously the victim of Darcy’s abuse. I believe the intent is to show the necessity to be aware of ways that we might contribute to a negative situation, but that point isn’t made clearly. Instead, it seems like the victim is partly culpable and, especially when it comes to rape, that’s just not right.
As a Christian morality tale, this is very moving and mostly effective. Forgiveness, redemption and salvation are within reach of everyone.
Much of the story is extremely dark, as it is clearly intended to be. If you’ve read other reviews, you already know that Darcy is a despicable character through much of the book, and so is most of his family with the exception of Colonel Fitzwilliam.
But that’s the whole point. It is a tale of Christian forgiveness and redemption available to those who turn to God. This includes even the worst of sinners who commit the most unpardonable sins. Prayer features strongly in the plot, and many Biblical passages (as well as excerpts by famous authors ranging from Alexandre Dumas to Ann Radcliffe) precede each chapter.
Fitzwilliam Darcy’s character is not completely inconsistent with canon, but his negative qualities are taken to extremes. He is admirable to the extent that he is a fair-minded, responsible Master of Pemberley who doesn’t gamble, drink or keep a mistress. (In fact, it’s implied that he’s a virgin himself on his wedding night.) He’s a good brother to Georgiana. However, he believes himself to be superior to anyone not of his upper social sphere and is blind to his own hypocrisy.
When Darcy finds himself honor-bound to marry Elizabeth, he only does his duty grudgingly. He believes that she entrapped him, refusing to recognize that her actions saved his life or that she’s dreading this marriage as much as he is. Because he feels that he saved her and her inferior family from ruination, he considers himself entitled to treat her like a possession.
While Elizabeth has her own faults, she is a woman of faith who prays in times of need and tries to seek God’s guidance in the worst of circumstances. Her low self-esteem from years of her mother’s disparagement, as well as her quick temper, leads her to respond negatively to Darcy even when he’s not being insufferable. In virtually every instance, she regrets her knee-jerk reaction afterward and vows to do better next time.
Between his arrogance and her over-sensitivity, the two clash horribly whenever they’re together. It is honestly painful to read. Each believes they’re trying their hardest to get along. Darcy wants to mold her into the perfect wife and stamp out her independence and wild ways, while Elizabeth grasps at whatever she can to retain her self-respect. We are allowed into both of their thoughts and given insight into how Darcy justifies his high-handedness.
It’s worth noting that, while in London, Elizabeth goes to church each Sunday with the Gardiners and tries to include Darcy. He refuses because he will not go near her relations or be seen in a church in Cheapside. But he doesn’t go to church elsewhere except on holidays (such as Christmas) with his Fitzwilliam relations, and it seems everyone there is more interested in watching others and being seen than they are with prayer and worship.
The rape is a significant turning point because Darcy finally has done something so horrific that he disgusts even himself, and it leads him to truly examine himself and his values for the first time. He’s not yet at the point of conversion, but he is finally seeking for the Truth. The result is that he brings Elizabeth to Pemberley and voluntarily leaves, spending a month in London doing some serious soul-searching. There, he faces a situation where he must make a choice, and he prays for the first time in the book.
When he returns to Pemberley, the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth improves dramatically, and the reader takes a sigh of relief. Briefly. A number of villains (Wickham, Lady Catherine, Darcy’s cousin Langston) interfere to create difficulties for the couple and shake their barely established trust in each other. It’s a test of faith by fire, and once again the reader is plunged into dark, murky waters.
As a novel, it is just WAY too long. Even without cutting any story elements, there is a lot of redundancy. I lost count of the number of times it’s mentioned that Darcy believes Elizabeth manipulated circumstances to force him to marry her, and that’s just one example. However, some story elements SHOULD be cut that would not adversely affect the basic plot. I mean, it doesn’t take so many incidents where Darcy’s lack of respect for Elizabeth is demonstrated to give the reader the message. There are too many contentious conversations between him and Elizabeth showing they don’t communicate effectively.
The scenes where Darcy and Elizabeth are finally in synch with each other are lovely. I don’t necessarily think there needs to be more of them, but eliminating a lot of the more painful details of their miserable early marriage would at least create a better balance between the light and the dark. As is, I would say about 3/4th of the book is very, very dark.
I will say that I was not happy with the amount of guilt that Elizabeth feels, since she is obviously the victim of Darcy’s abuse. I believe the intent is to show the necessity to be aware of ways that we might contribute to a negative situation, but that point isn’t made clearly. Instead, it seems like the victim is partly culpable and, especially when it comes to rape, that’s just not right.
As a Christian morality tale, this is very moving and mostly effective. Forgiveness, redemption and salvation are within reach of everyone.
November 15, 2018
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
Reading several other reviews I find that this story brought out very strong reactions. Rape is mentioned...yes, if you force your wife against her will it is called rape. I usually can't stand to read of that in any book. However, I have such an attachment to Darcy and Elizabeth and such a strong expectation of a happy ending that I did not put the book down there. For me this was a story that kept me turning pages...not to find out what happened next but to find out how that happiness was reached as I expected that to be reached.
Dark at times, in this tale we read of Darcy's faults (as described in the story description) which are much the same as in canon but are much more deeply ingrained in his and his family's behaviors and expectations. The story, to begin with is a FMS, and it is not hushed up. First it is Mrs. Bennet's mouth running off that necessitates the marriage but secondly it is Darcy's firm sense of honor that has him coming back to offer his hand, even though he is advised to pay some farmer to marry her or to even pay the family off. Sadly the gossip not only circulates in Meryton's but also in London's society.
The reader feels Elizabeth's loneliness and isolation as Darcy comes to believe that she planned the compromising situation, even to suspecting that Wickham might have had a part in it. Wickham is again a charmer to Elizabeth's face and attempting to stab Darcy in the back all the while and with the help of one of Darcy's relations. Even more ominous is the fact that one relation has plans to tear the marriage apart while another is intent on assaulting Elizabeth. There are few people who stand up for or even offer help to Elizabeth. The servants at Pemberley seem to be among the few.
As for Darcy he has a long journey in this story to even recognize that what he holds as virtues are in fact part of the stumbling blocks to any kind of happiness in marriage much less to a loving relationship.
This is a very long story and at times painful indeed. The author does offer some parts when one or the other of our dear couple turn to prayer or contemplate what God might mean or wish for them to do.
I enjoyed this story but it might not be for all. There are scenes which are for Mature Audiences.
Reading several other reviews I find that this story brought out very strong reactions. Rape is mentioned...yes, if you force your wife against her will it is called rape. I usually can't stand to read of that in any book. However, I have such an attachment to Darcy and Elizabeth and such a strong expectation of a happy ending that I did not put the book down there. For me this was a story that kept me turning pages...not to find out what happened next but to find out how that happiness was reached as I expected that to be reached.
Dark at times, in this tale we read of Darcy's faults (as described in the story description) which are much the same as in canon but are much more deeply ingrained in his and his family's behaviors and expectations. The story, to begin with is a FMS, and it is not hushed up. First it is Mrs. Bennet's mouth running off that necessitates the marriage but secondly it is Darcy's firm sense of honor that has him coming back to offer his hand, even though he is advised to pay some farmer to marry her or to even pay the family off. Sadly the gossip not only circulates in Meryton's but also in London's society.
The reader feels Elizabeth's loneliness and isolation as Darcy comes to believe that she planned the compromising situation, even to suspecting that Wickham might have had a part in it. Wickham is again a charmer to Elizabeth's face and attempting to stab Darcy in the back all the while and with the help of one of Darcy's relations. Even more ominous is the fact that one relation has plans to tear the marriage apart while another is intent on assaulting Elizabeth. There are few people who stand up for or even offer help to Elizabeth. The servants at Pemberley seem to be among the few.
As for Darcy he has a long journey in this story to even recognize that what he holds as virtues are in fact part of the stumbling blocks to any kind of happiness in marriage much less to a loving relationship.
This is a very long story and at times painful indeed. The author does offer some parts when one or the other of our dear couple turn to prayer or contemplate what God might mean or wish for them to do.
I enjoyed this story but it might not be for all. There are scenes which are for Mature Audiences.
August 11, 2016
I am finding it really hard to write this review as I think if the main protagonists hadn't been Elizabeth and Darcy I would have viewed the book completely differently. For me, Darcy, for too much of this very long book, was unrecognisable as Jane Austen's character even at his officious worst in Pride and Prejudice. At one point Elizabeth calls him a beast for an unforgivable act which may have been true to the time period but in my own head my Darcy would never stoop so low. ''Beast' does not begin to describe him. Elizabeth even accepts some of the blame but she was the victim, again this does not sit with my Elizabeth. There are so many misunderstandings and people with evil intent and so little positivity for an enormous amount of the book, I was quite worn down by it and struggled to keep going at times.
If the book had been about Joe Bloggs and Jane Smith I think I would have enjoyed the book a lot more and appreciated the good writing, but it wasn't, so my review is as a Pride and Prejudice variation and even though there is a happy ever after, the price paid for it was too high for me. I know that there are plenty that will disagree and I hope there may be some interesting discussions ahead!
If the book had been about Joe Bloggs and Jane Smith I think I would have enjoyed the book a lot more and appreciated the good writing, but it wasn't, so my review is as a Pride and Prejudice variation and even though there is a happy ever after, the price paid for it was too high for me. I know that there are plenty that will disagree and I hope there may be some interesting discussions ahead!
September 23, 2020
ETA (9/23/20) Upon reflection this is a bad book. It is simply dark and abusive and cruel.
This is a difficult book to rate; it was in my opinion overlong... It is dark, depressing, disturbing, and oppressive. There is violence toward women, threats, martial abuse and endless mistrust and misunderstanding. This is a superior Darcy whose ego knows no bounds, he is always right, leaps to crazy conclusions and thinks he is the best of the best. And we have a Lizzy who is in the modern sense emotionally abused, mentally abused and under physical attack. Almost the entire book should be a trigger warning for anyone who has previous experience with any kind of abuse. It is also a 'forced marriage scenario' in the most fundamental sense.
Here's a quick synopsis of the plot. We begin like P&P more or less but Lizzy & Darcy run into one another in the Longbourn woods as a storm is setting in. Darcy is injured and Lizzy somehow manages to drag him to a small hunter's cabin and get him warm and dry... When they are discovered they are compromised, but Mr. Bennet tries to cover it up and he would have succeeded if it wasn't for his meddling wife. This is the first of what can only be described as ridiculous circumstances the author slips in to FORCE the plot on its way. Soon Lizzy is RUINED and if Darcy doesn't marry her then her sisters will be as well. Darcy is a giant ball of Resentment and you kind of can't blame him since it really looks like Lizzy's family is the catalyst for his downfall.
This is a cruel, bitter, unreformed Darcy. He thinks Lizzy is uncouth, wild, outspoken and a hoyden. He was on the cusp of an engagement to a refined, titled and dowered Lady of the ton. Now he has lost the money, the status and the envy of his peers. Darcy is full of resentment and he passes this resentment right on to Lizzy. There is a forced consummation of the marriage followed by more resentment. Darcy is so prejudiced against her he refuses to see any of her goodness and he treats her like a servant or a small child. He refuses to let he meet people until he can 'mold her', of course being Darcy he doesn't tell her this... he just keeps her home practicing the pianoforte. Things go from bad to worse when she is finally introduced to his family. Georgiana is convinced Darcy is miserable and goes out of her way to be rude and cruel, while another cousin attempts to rape her. (yes really). Lizzy has no friends no confidants and a cruel bitter husband. There are several points in this book where I honestly wondered why she wasn't contemplating suicide.
Seemingly everyone except Col. Fitzwilliam is whispering poison about the other to both of them. Darcy takes her to Pemberley and then leaves for 'business in town'. Lizzy journals about her unhappiness. ODC don't even begin to resolve their problems until about 62% of the book and don't really achieve true happiness until about 92%.
This is really a brutal story. Brutal. This is really a book where you want Lizzy to get woke and leave him and go anywhere to escape. I am giving it four stars because its only fault is being too long and having too many words of four syllables. But you need to be in the right place to read it and it is not for the gentle or sensitive. Also there are three places where insane things happen that are almost completely impossible and one teeny tiny thing would have made them impossible.
This is a difficult book to rate; it was in my opinion overlong... It is dark, depressing, disturbing, and oppressive. There is violence toward women, threats, martial abuse and endless mistrust and misunderstanding. This is a superior Darcy whose ego knows no bounds, he is always right, leaps to crazy conclusions and thinks he is the best of the best. And we have a Lizzy who is in the modern sense emotionally abused, mentally abused and under physical attack. Almost the entire book should be a trigger warning for anyone who has previous experience with any kind of abuse. It is also a 'forced marriage scenario' in the most fundamental sense.
Here's a quick synopsis of the plot. We begin like P&P more or less but Lizzy & Darcy run into one another in the Longbourn woods as a storm is setting in. Darcy is injured and Lizzy somehow manages to drag him to a small hunter's cabin and get him warm and dry... When they are discovered they are compromised, but Mr. Bennet tries to cover it up and he would have succeeded if it wasn't for his meddling wife. This is the first of what can only be described as ridiculous circumstances the author slips in to FORCE the plot on its way. Soon Lizzy is RUINED and if Darcy doesn't marry her then her sisters will be as well. Darcy is a giant ball of Resentment and you kind of can't blame him since it really looks like Lizzy's family is the catalyst for his downfall.
This is a cruel, bitter, unreformed Darcy. He thinks Lizzy is uncouth, wild, outspoken and a hoyden. He was on the cusp of an engagement to a refined, titled and dowered Lady of the ton. Now he has lost the money, the status and the envy of his peers. Darcy is full of resentment and he passes this resentment right on to Lizzy. There is a forced consummation of the marriage followed by more resentment. Darcy is so prejudiced against her he refuses to see any of her goodness and he treats her like a servant or a small child. He refuses to let he meet people until he can 'mold her', of course being Darcy he doesn't tell her this... he just keeps her home practicing the pianoforte. Things go from bad to worse when she is finally introduced to his family. Georgiana is convinced Darcy is miserable and goes out of her way to be rude and cruel, while another cousin attempts to rape her. (yes really). Lizzy has no friends no confidants and a cruel bitter husband. There are several points in this book where I honestly wondered why she wasn't contemplating suicide.
Seemingly everyone except Col. Fitzwilliam is whispering poison about the other to both of them. Darcy takes her to Pemberley and then leaves for 'business in town'. Lizzy journals about her unhappiness. ODC don't even begin to resolve their problems until about 62% of the book and don't really achieve true happiness until about 92%.
This is really a brutal story. Brutal. This is really a book where you want Lizzy to get woke and leave him and go anywhere to escape. I am giving it four stars because its only fault is being too long and having too many words of four syllables. But you need to be in the right place to read it and it is not for the gentle or sensitive. Also there are three places where insane things happen that are almost completely impossible and one teeny tiny thing would have made them impossible.
December 19, 2020
One star - the author understands some of the basic concepts of English.
SPOILERS AHEAD:
I really cannot express my hatred for this book, and for the main characters. Darcy is heinous (and by heinous I mean serial rapist), and Elizabeth a martyr. The author revels in patriarchal toxicity and outright misogyny. The book is 90% Darcy or his family doing and saying everything awful... and the “redemption” message is . . . ? If you are going to punch your readers in the face with repeated sexual assaults on Elizabeth Bennet, you need to be able to take your readers back from that so that your message is felt. Because this is how I felt after finishing the book -- Elizabeth Bennet is married to a man who raped and tortured her and failed to protect her from others raping and torturing her. She falls in love with her rapist. She falls in love with her rapist. That's why I keep wondering what the point of it all was. Because now that it's all over, I'm just hoping Elizabeth dies soon because she fell in love with her rapist (Stockholm syndrome, anyone? Patty Hearst? Chris Brown and Rhianna?) (Is this a message you'd like your daughter to read?) DARCY IS A BRUTAL SERIAL RAPIST. I hated Darcy and I hoped Elizabeth would die, SOOOOOOOOO - is there yet another way I can say that I hated these characters? That I despised that the author would torture readers with this horrible BS and that no other reviewers bothered to mention that this book was so terrible? "Dark" they call it. It isn't "dark" - it's a deep brutal hole of a woman tortured, raped and repeatedly attacked - physically, sexually, intellectually, emotionally. Had it been me, I would have hung myself from the main staircase after the first rape. Failing that, I would have slit my wrists after the attack by Darcy's relation. Failing that, I would have thrown myself over a cliff to make sure the job was done after Darcy's second rape.
I have never before made so many notes while reading, nor have I made my notes public before.
I do not recommend this book, it was just horrid.
Zero warning from author in the "About this book" section, but this is what it should say: Repeated descriptions of brutal sexual assaults without and within the context of marriage. Strong pseudo-Christianesque themes (that's not the kinda christian I was raised to be), scripture quotations. (If this is what I believed christianity to be I would be an atheist without regret.)
I believe it lacks integrity on the part of whomever is responsible for the book description that there is no warning about these themes. I never would have read this book had I known. I kept hoping it would get better, and I kept hoping for some brilliant, redemptive ending. But no. Basically Elizabeth is a Handmaiden who becomes so beaten down that she learns to love her life. It's Hobbsian: Life is nasty, brutish and [if she's lucky] short. Sylvia Plath didn't have it so bad, she could have been this Elizabeth Bennet.
Horrible. I resent every moment I spent sitting with hope that somehow Darcy would redeem himself and/or Elizabeth would set him and the rest of his family on fire.
PS. It's been three months since I've read this book and I'm still angry, the book still haunts me and I basically have given up reading JAFF because I'm so angry that no one warned me about this book. What is the point of a reviewing community if we can't warn each other of these things?
SPOILERS AHEAD:
I really cannot express my hatred for this book, and for the main characters. Darcy is heinous (and by heinous I mean serial rapist), and Elizabeth a martyr. The author revels in patriarchal toxicity and outright misogyny. The book is 90% Darcy or his family doing and saying everything awful... and the “redemption” message is . . . ? If you are going to punch your readers in the face with repeated sexual assaults on Elizabeth Bennet, you need to be able to take your readers back from that so that your message is felt. Because this is how I felt after finishing the book -- Elizabeth Bennet is married to a man who raped and tortured her and failed to protect her from others raping and torturing her. She falls in love with her rapist. She falls in love with her rapist. That's why I keep wondering what the point of it all was. Because now that it's all over, I'm just hoping Elizabeth dies soon because she fell in love with her rapist (Stockholm syndrome, anyone? Patty Hearst? Chris Brown and Rhianna?) (Is this a message you'd like your daughter to read?) DARCY IS A BRUTAL SERIAL RAPIST. I hated Darcy and I hoped Elizabeth would die, SOOOOOOOOO - is there yet another way I can say that I hated these characters? That I despised that the author would torture readers with this horrible BS and that no other reviewers bothered to mention that this book was so terrible? "Dark" they call it. It isn't "dark" - it's a deep brutal hole of a woman tortured, raped and repeatedly attacked - physically, sexually, intellectually, emotionally. Had it been me, I would have hung myself from the main staircase after the first rape. Failing that, I would have slit my wrists after the attack by Darcy's relation. Failing that, I would have thrown myself over a cliff to make sure the job was done after Darcy's second rape.
I have never before made so many notes while reading, nor have I made my notes public before.
I do not recommend this book, it was just horrid.
Zero warning from author in the "About this book" section, but this is what it should say: Repeated descriptions of brutal sexual assaults without and within the context of marriage. Strong pseudo-Christianesque themes (that's not the kinda christian I was raised to be), scripture quotations. (If this is what I believed christianity to be I would be an atheist without regret.)
I believe it lacks integrity on the part of whomever is responsible for the book description that there is no warning about these themes. I never would have read this book had I known. I kept hoping it would get better, and I kept hoping for some brilliant, redemptive ending. But no. Basically Elizabeth is a Handmaiden who becomes so beaten down that she learns to love her life. It's Hobbsian: Life is nasty, brutish and [if she's lucky] short. Sylvia Plath didn't have it so bad, she could have been this Elizabeth Bennet.
Horrible. I resent every moment I spent sitting with hope that somehow Darcy would redeem himself and/or Elizabeth would set him and the rest of his family on fire.
PS. It's been three months since I've read this book and I'm still angry, the book still haunts me and I basically have given up reading JAFF because I'm so angry that no one warned me about this book. What is the point of a reviewing community if we can't warn each other of these things?
November 11, 2018
This book has divided reviewers and after doing nothing for two whole days other than reading this book, I understand why. It is a huge departure from the misunderstandings that usually occur in books of this genre. Mr Darcy is a snob, nasty and cruel. He thinks the absolute worst of Elizabeth at every opportunity. Elizabeth has the spirit crushed out of her, not only by Darcy but by his family and friends. It was awful to read, which shows the real skill of the author. At times, I was almost in tears for poor Elizabeth. Some of the scenes are, by modern standards, abusive. Emotionally and sexually. Consequently they were difficult to read. However, there is no escaping that, in reality, Elizabeth would not have charmed the first circles with her intellect and wit. A wife was the property of her husband, and he could treat her how he wished.
There were some Americanisms in this book that I found distracting but, all in all, I had a real emotional response to the story which can only be provoked by truly brilliant story telling.
The first part of this book is heartbreakingly sad and cruel and I honestly thought the tale could only end badly. It was hard to see how anything could be salvaged from this relationship which deteriorated with every page.
This book is not for the faint hearted. It is a long read that requires concentration. It is heavy going due to the nature of the story but is well worth the effort. An emotional roller coaster that may well leave you exhausted!
There were some Americanisms in this book that I found distracting but, all in all, I had a real emotional response to the story which can only be provoked by truly brilliant story telling.
The first part of this book is heartbreakingly sad and cruel and I honestly thought the tale could only end badly. It was hard to see how anything could be salvaged from this relationship which deteriorated with every page.
This book is not for the faint hearted. It is a long read that requires concentration. It is heavy going due to the nature of the story but is well worth the effort. An emotional roller coaster that may well leave you exhausted!
April 5, 2023
Not for the faint of heart.
Well I finished it but I’m not too happy about it. For 20 out of 23 chapters Darcy is a complete a-hole. Caroline, Collins, Lady Catherine and Lydia play small annoying parts. Wickham and the Colonel’s older brother are despicable. There are 2 attempted rapes and 1 successful rape. Lots of misery before the HEA. I feel like I need to immediately read something else to wipe the memory from my brain. Im sorry I read it.
1 star for the horrible story
3 stars for execution
Averaged to 2 stars
Well I finished it but I’m not too happy about it. For 20 out of 23 chapters Darcy is a complete a-hole. Caroline, Collins, Lady Catherine and Lydia play small annoying parts. Wickham and the Colonel’s older brother are despicable. There are 2 attempted rapes and 1 successful rape. Lots of misery before the HEA. I feel like I need to immediately read something else to wipe the memory from my brain. Im sorry I read it.
1 star for the horrible story
3 stars for execution
Averaged to 2 stars
March 5, 2023
Oh my! What have you done to poor mr Darcy...
If you are faint hearted this is not the book for you. Kept my heart pounding and my hands trembling but I could not put it down. Lizzy saves mr Darcy but the award is not what she expected. The end though is a little bit too sweet and lacking in passion.
If you are faint hearted this is not the book for you. Kept my heart pounding and my hands trembling but I could not put it down. Lizzy saves mr Darcy but the award is not what she expected. The end though is a little bit too sweet and lacking in passion.
November 12, 2018
This books had a great appeal to me, it was a page turner! I almost couldn't put it down, because I really wanted to know what would happen next. About the plot, it was very realistic. Even if Mr. Darcy was an ass, I can't blame him much given his education, his rank and their era. Unfortunately, women were viewed as a possession.
In other hand, I think Elizabeth did her best. After reading the comments, I was afraid that she would be too much subdued and submissive. It wasn't the case. Being very young and having her life totally changed, I think she acted the best she could.
About their marriage night, that was awful, but one of most realistic I read in fanfiction. And I can't blame any of them, sex, without comprehension, is like that even nowadays.
I wouldn't call their third time a rape. It was kinda forced and very disagreeable for her, but he acted within his rights at that time, it was always disagreeable and forceful to her. Since women were practically owned by men, they could act like that with their wives. Anyway, Mr. Darcy was really really awful.
As some said, it was a long story with too much angst (bordering the exaggeration and melodramatic), but it was very entertaining. In the end, I believe Elizabeth forgave him too soon and blamed herself too much for my liking. But, taking in count the time, the society, the laws, the sentiment of women was too close to Stockholm syndrome IMO.
It was not a light and easy story, but it was well written and solid. I enjoyed it, but I will not read it again.
In other hand, I think Elizabeth did her best. After reading the comments, I was afraid that she would be too much subdued and submissive. It wasn't the case. Being very young and having her life totally changed, I think she acted the best she could.
About their marriage night, that was awful, but one of most realistic I read in fanfiction. And I can't blame any of them, sex, without comprehension, is like that even nowadays.
I wouldn't call their third time a rape. It was kinda forced and very disagreeable for her, but he acted within his rights at that time, it was always disagreeable and forceful to her. Since women were practically owned by men, they could act like that with their wives. Anyway, Mr. Darcy was really really awful.
As some said, it was a long story with too much angst (bordering the exaggeration and melodramatic), but it was very entertaining. In the end, I believe Elizabeth forgave him too soon and blamed herself too much for my liking. But, taking in count the time, the society, the laws, the sentiment of women was too close to Stockholm syndrome IMO.
It was not a light and easy story, but it was well written and solid. I enjoyed it, but I will not read it again.
September 17, 2021
Serious Subject - Well Written
First, let me say this is a very well written book. It is not your usual light P&P variation. The subject matter is serious in that parts of it touch on sexual assault (which is not overly graphic in my opinion, but may indeed be sensitive for some, understandably).
Darcy is really awful for quite a long time, but finds remorse and abhors the things he did, and learns many lessons taught by Elizabeth. He becomes a better man because of her, as in canon. Of course, she learns some lessons as well. It’s also a spiritual journey of sorts, but this particular aspect doesn’t dominate the story. It’s well placed.
At times difficult to read, I couldn’t put it down and eagerly turned each page. I have read dozens and dozens and dozens of these variations. Many are good, some are meh, and some are not easy to forget. The latter are my favorites, and this will be one of them. Most variations I’ve read read include the quote from the original, “You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.” Other than the original, I believe the heartfelt occasion of that famous quote in this book moved me only second to Austen’s mention.
I’ve read this book three times now. I enjoy the forced marriage trope in Pride and Prejudice variations, and while this one touches on such a serious subject, it remains a favourite book.
First, let me say this is a very well written book. It is not your usual light P&P variation. The subject matter is serious in that parts of it touch on sexual assault (which is not overly graphic in my opinion, but may indeed be sensitive for some, understandably).
Darcy is really awful for quite a long time, but finds remorse and abhors the things he did, and learns many lessons taught by Elizabeth. He becomes a better man because of her, as in canon. Of course, she learns some lessons as well. It’s also a spiritual journey of sorts, but this particular aspect doesn’t dominate the story. It’s well placed.
At times difficult to read, I couldn’t put it down and eagerly turned each page. I have read dozens and dozens and dozens of these variations. Many are good, some are meh, and some are not easy to forget. The latter are my favorites, and this will be one of them. Most variations I’ve read read include the quote from the original, “You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.” Other than the original, I believe the heartfelt occasion of that famous quote in this book moved me only second to Austen’s mention.
I’ve read this book three times now. I enjoy the forced marriage trope in Pride and Prejudice variations, and while this one touches on such a serious subject, it remains a favourite book.
August 13, 2016
I have to admit I was extremely apprehensive to start this book because of the thought of Darcy being so absolutely horrid for a great portion of it, but the rave reviews eventually won me over and they were spot on. It is at times painful to see this Fitzwilliam Darcy but the book is so excellently written and we know Darcy of course redeems himself and redeems himself he does! This is one of those that I stayed up until four in the morning reading because I simply could not put it down. This book was the ultimate show of Darcy at his most prideful and eventually his most transformed. It was a truly pivotal moment when he is brought to his knees no longer blinded by his pride. It was almost like an addict finally accepting help and all from Elizabeth's influence in his life. Elizabeth stayed true to herself even when almost being broken by Darcy's behavior towards her. At times I found myself so angry with Darcy that I hoped Elizabeth would leave him but it is still obvious that they are fated to be together and it likely would not have happened at all if not in this way. Excellently written and for as difficult as some parts were, an amazing read. Glad I was brave enough to pick it up.
August 14, 2016
Marathon read not worth your time
Good writing but plot was contrived far fetcher and ridiculous. You hit Lizzy with everything but the kitchen sink. Coln. Fitzwilliam should have rode in on a white charger by location 7000 to save her. Better yet Lizzy should have run screaming from the house to the stables to find her own white charger to escape on. I never met in writing a more horrible Darcy his reformation took way too long. This book was way too long. I am going to read P&P again. Hopefully I'll remember why I enjoy this genre so much.
Good writing but plot was contrived far fetcher and ridiculous. You hit Lizzy with everything but the kitchen sink. Coln. Fitzwilliam should have rode in on a white charger by location 7000 to save her. Better yet Lizzy should have run screaming from the house to the stables to find her own white charger to escape on. I never met in writing a more horrible Darcy his reformation took way too long. This book was way too long. I am going to read P&P again. Hopefully I'll remember why I enjoy this genre so much.
April 10, 2023
Darcy is a jerk. Very dark. Want to remind myself not to read again.
Just terrible. The more I think about this the more I hate it.
There is NO redemption.
Just terrible. The more I think about this the more I hate it.
There is NO redemption.
November 6, 2016
I couldn't finish it , they should make it clear it's a religious book , couldn't even relate to it been Darcy and Lizzie , if anything the writer should have changed the names and and made it a totally different book , disappointed as I love fanfictio
March 7, 2018
Obligations and Redemption
Well this story had some very serious events, but truly, very realistic, if you think of the time/age it was set in, with its class distinctions, and the questionable beginning of the marriage. Questionable to all the gossips, that is! Darcy was completely obnoxious but Lizzie's strength of character saw her through the harsh beginning. Darcy finally had an epiphany, and things managed to right themselves, even with evil people and their interferences! Great read!
Well this story had some very serious events, but truly, very realistic, if you think of the time/age it was set in, with its class distinctions, and the questionable beginning of the marriage. Questionable to all the gossips, that is! Darcy was completely obnoxious but Lizzie's strength of character saw her through the harsh beginning. Darcy finally had an epiphany, and things managed to right themselves, even with evil people and their interferences! Great read!
October 28, 2016
My first (and perhaps my only) venture into a genre known variously as Jane Austen Fan Fiction or Pride & Prejudice Variations. This is apparently quite a thing. Other online reviewers, and the author herself, boast of having read hundreds of other examples of this type. Full disclosure: I have read but this one, although I’ve seen more than a few refashionings of the story on film.
First, review of the genre. I confess to being enough of a fan and not so much of a purist to have found the P&P Variation idea appealing. In slightly different circumstances, what would Darcy do? As the marriage continued, how would Elizabeth Bennet react to being a wife? The whole enterprise is derivative, but so what? These are great characters, why not keep them alive in some way? In the beginning of the book especially, a number of situations and a lot of the dialogue is drawn verbatim from Austen’s book. This method establishes credibility and sets us up for plot variations and twists. This way of writing might horrify you, but for me, so far, so good.
This particular book works with a scenario in which Elizabeth and Darcy are accidentally forced into a situation that appears compromising and thus obliges them to marry. The author explores a plot in which the couple must be on intimate terms without having learned first to like or respect each other. Most startling is McCall's treatment of marital intercourse, which turns out to be as far as possible from the romance readers might expect. Thus, the hints in Austen’s novel that young women are sexual prey play out explicitly in this book. Online reviewers found this approach to be “dark” in a way apparently not expected in the genre and maybe unpalatable to readers. For me, however, it was a fascinating speculative answer to questions feminist scholars have often asked about women in the past who receive mixed messages about sexuality, to say the least, and must negotiate the impossible situation of the good girl raised to be totally innocent before marriage but required to be a willing bed partner after. How does the companionate marriage work against the gender expectations that men be forceful and women passive? Although we speak habitually now of “rape culture,” we have in fact only recently come to think that it is even possible for rape to exist in marriage, when consortium is required and men have rights. As McCall draws out behavioral patterns of her characters, she answers those questions utilizing a modern understanding of sexual abusers and abused victims, but in the novel these reactions play out against the early-19th-century backdrop, exacerbated by the strict codes of conduct regulating interactions between genders and classes.
Online reviewers complained, or at least commented, that this book should be clearly labeled as Christian Fan Fiction. Indeed, the redemption mentioned in the title is rooted in religious transformation, underlined in the text by epigrams drawn from the Bible and more prayers and church-going in the story than Austen fans might expect. For me, this was an acceptable plot enhancement—but consider yourself warned, if that matters to you.
For many reviewers of the book, this novel counted as well-written, but my guess is that these raves more accurately reflect the narrow universe of Jane Austen Fan Fiction than quality in fiction generally. Perhaps I am back to criticizing the genre, but the writing felt to me like a modern author trying to imitate an earlier style, and often not getting it right. There were some laughable mistakes, in which words were used that sounded old-fashioned but didn’t carry the proper meaning at all. You might expect “want’ to be substituted for “wont,” but “virulent” for “virile” or “quiescent” for “quiet”? Modern turns of phrase and sentence construction were used throughout, which might only bother the nit-pickers, but did prevent me from ever feeling as if I were reading Jane Austen herself. Overall, the writing was quite repetitive, including numerous recapitulations of plot elements (in good soap opera style, as if viewers joined the program in progress). Presumably in this genre, professional editors are a luxury, but a good one could have helped this novel considerably.
Without giving too many spoilers, perhaps it is obvious from my summary of the plot that this book operates out of a very contemporary sensibility, which could be jarring. Austen's Elizabeth Bennet loved her walks, but McCall's heroine attends to her physical exercise like any modern workout fanatic, running when possible (our author admits to being a jogger), getting in her steps on rainy days by walking briskly through the huge mansion (which seems much larger than most country houses were known to be), and taking self-defense instruction from the footman. There was a lot of quick travel back and forth between the country estates and London which takes a cue from Austen’s writing itself, but seemed dismissive of the actualities of olden day travel (although here I’m not enough of an expert to judge, maybe). The mail seemed to move like modern mail, too, especially an “express,” which functioned like overnight delivery. I wondered why Darcy had stacks of mail waiting for him when he came back to Pemberley after a few months absence – would it not have been sent on to his London residence, or taken care of by his business manager? Or was this magazines and junk mail? Not sure why that bothered me, but it did.
Yet ultimately the fascination of this P&P Variation comes precisely from its modern sensibility. It constructs a plot based on the understanding that husbands would force wives sexually, i.e. the practice of what we now see as “marital rape,” and uses the feminist wisdom of our time to rewrite the familiar story of how two seemingly ill-suited people become good lovers. The redemption in the title does not only refer to the characters in the novel. The book is also an earnest attempt to redeem the romances of earlier times so that they can be inspirational to more clear-eyed modern women with such different expectations about relationships between the sexes. After this smart insight, it is a shame that the author doesn’t allow Elizabeth Bennett even more complex and self-aware personal development. The enlightened Mrs. Darcy must still assume that the transformation of her marriage is so private and unique to her that she gives no thought to sharing her hard-won knowledge with other women (even though she herself was desperate to get the counsel of an older woman, she does not think to offer it when Jane gets married). Alas, strict gender conformity holds sway, and even the lively Elizabeth Bennet can only speak of intimate matters with her legally-sanctioned husband. When it comes to helping her sisters, Elizabeth's gesture is to increase their dowries, perpetuating the marriage market that she herself has learned to be flawed. We expect Elizabeth to be more forthright on this subject as she is on every other, but no. Perhaps this Variation is not really for 21st-century feminists, but for traditional Christians after all, to serve as an instruction manual on how to woo a woman raised according to conservative standards of ignorance about sexual matters but who have no desire whatever to change that system. But whatever audience was intended, I was intrigued to find modern psychology coupled with earlier social conventions. For me, the darkness kept the story from superficiality.
Considering the derivative nature of the genre even at its best and the shortcomings in the research and writing, I would give this book three stars, but judged within the conventions of fan fiction, it might well be worth five. I am glad to have experienced the novel, but my current plans do not involve reading 300-plus other Variations to establish a more definitive ranking.
First, review of the genre. I confess to being enough of a fan and not so much of a purist to have found the P&P Variation idea appealing. In slightly different circumstances, what would Darcy do? As the marriage continued, how would Elizabeth Bennet react to being a wife? The whole enterprise is derivative, but so what? These are great characters, why not keep them alive in some way? In the beginning of the book especially, a number of situations and a lot of the dialogue is drawn verbatim from Austen’s book. This method establishes credibility and sets us up for plot variations and twists. This way of writing might horrify you, but for me, so far, so good.
This particular book works with a scenario in which Elizabeth and Darcy are accidentally forced into a situation that appears compromising and thus obliges them to marry. The author explores a plot in which the couple must be on intimate terms without having learned first to like or respect each other. Most startling is McCall's treatment of marital intercourse, which turns out to be as far as possible from the romance readers might expect. Thus, the hints in Austen’s novel that young women are sexual prey play out explicitly in this book. Online reviewers found this approach to be “dark” in a way apparently not expected in the genre and maybe unpalatable to readers. For me, however, it was a fascinating speculative answer to questions feminist scholars have often asked about women in the past who receive mixed messages about sexuality, to say the least, and must negotiate the impossible situation of the good girl raised to be totally innocent before marriage but required to be a willing bed partner after. How does the companionate marriage work against the gender expectations that men be forceful and women passive? Although we speak habitually now of “rape culture,” we have in fact only recently come to think that it is even possible for rape to exist in marriage, when consortium is required and men have rights. As McCall draws out behavioral patterns of her characters, she answers those questions utilizing a modern understanding of sexual abusers and abused victims, but in the novel these reactions play out against the early-19th-century backdrop, exacerbated by the strict codes of conduct regulating interactions between genders and classes.
Online reviewers complained, or at least commented, that this book should be clearly labeled as Christian Fan Fiction. Indeed, the redemption mentioned in the title is rooted in religious transformation, underlined in the text by epigrams drawn from the Bible and more prayers and church-going in the story than Austen fans might expect. For me, this was an acceptable plot enhancement—but consider yourself warned, if that matters to you.
For many reviewers of the book, this novel counted as well-written, but my guess is that these raves more accurately reflect the narrow universe of Jane Austen Fan Fiction than quality in fiction generally. Perhaps I am back to criticizing the genre, but the writing felt to me like a modern author trying to imitate an earlier style, and often not getting it right. There were some laughable mistakes, in which words were used that sounded old-fashioned but didn’t carry the proper meaning at all. You might expect “want’ to be substituted for “wont,” but “virulent” for “virile” or “quiescent” for “quiet”? Modern turns of phrase and sentence construction were used throughout, which might only bother the nit-pickers, but did prevent me from ever feeling as if I were reading Jane Austen herself. Overall, the writing was quite repetitive, including numerous recapitulations of plot elements (in good soap opera style, as if viewers joined the program in progress). Presumably in this genre, professional editors are a luxury, but a good one could have helped this novel considerably.
Without giving too many spoilers, perhaps it is obvious from my summary of the plot that this book operates out of a very contemporary sensibility, which could be jarring. Austen's Elizabeth Bennet loved her walks, but McCall's heroine attends to her physical exercise like any modern workout fanatic, running when possible (our author admits to being a jogger), getting in her steps on rainy days by walking briskly through the huge mansion (which seems much larger than most country houses were known to be), and taking self-defense instruction from the footman. There was a lot of quick travel back and forth between the country estates and London which takes a cue from Austen’s writing itself, but seemed dismissive of the actualities of olden day travel (although here I’m not enough of an expert to judge, maybe). The mail seemed to move like modern mail, too, especially an “express,” which functioned like overnight delivery. I wondered why Darcy had stacks of mail waiting for him when he came back to Pemberley after a few months absence – would it not have been sent on to his London residence, or taken care of by his business manager? Or was this magazines and junk mail? Not sure why that bothered me, but it did.
Yet ultimately the fascination of this P&P Variation comes precisely from its modern sensibility. It constructs a plot based on the understanding that husbands would force wives sexually, i.e. the practice of what we now see as “marital rape,” and uses the feminist wisdom of our time to rewrite the familiar story of how two seemingly ill-suited people become good lovers. The redemption in the title does not only refer to the characters in the novel. The book is also an earnest attempt to redeem the romances of earlier times so that they can be inspirational to more clear-eyed modern women with such different expectations about relationships between the sexes. After this smart insight, it is a shame that the author doesn’t allow Elizabeth Bennett even more complex and self-aware personal development. The enlightened Mrs. Darcy must still assume that the transformation of her marriage is so private and unique to her that she gives no thought to sharing her hard-won knowledge with other women (even though she herself was desperate to get the counsel of an older woman, she does not think to offer it when Jane gets married). Alas, strict gender conformity holds sway, and even the lively Elizabeth Bennet can only speak of intimate matters with her legally-sanctioned husband. When it comes to helping her sisters, Elizabeth's gesture is to increase their dowries, perpetuating the marriage market that she herself has learned to be flawed. We expect Elizabeth to be more forthright on this subject as she is on every other, but no. Perhaps this Variation is not really for 21st-century feminists, but for traditional Christians after all, to serve as an instruction manual on how to woo a woman raised according to conservative standards of ignorance about sexual matters but who have no desire whatever to change that system. But whatever audience was intended, I was intrigued to find modern psychology coupled with earlier social conventions. For me, the darkness kept the story from superficiality.
Considering the derivative nature of the genre even at its best and the shortcomings in the research and writing, I would give this book three stars, but judged within the conventions of fan fiction, it might well be worth five. I am glad to have experienced the novel, but my current plans do not involve reading 300-plus other Variations to establish a more definitive ranking.
dnf-skimmed-or-free-samples
May 31, 2024I had marked this want-to-read because somebody praised it on FB but then I read some reviews...
And the free sample. Which seems a bit preachy. I don't think this book is for me after all. God can love and forgive a rapist if he wants to but the victims should not be required to. It's not a heartwarming message of love and redemption, it supports spousal abuse and misogyny. And I don't want to read about a rapey Darcy, an Elizabeth who is so devoid of any self-worth that she spends her life making excuses for her abuser, or a God that thinks this is somehow desirable. Women get victimized far too much even without books that imply it's OK as long as you pray in the end. If there is rape, the happy ending is when Elizabeth gets away and never needs to see Darcy ever again. Her children do not deserve a rapist for a father.
Darcy, you can pray all day long, and it may make you feel better about yourself. It may give you a lovely self-righteous glow and help you forgive yourself for being a rapist jerk. But it does not un-rape your victim, it does not un-abuse those you abused, and it does not undo the traumatic effects of any of your heinous deeds. I know you were a child of a different time, and a wife had few to no rights, and raping her may not have been a crime, and I've got modern sensibilities, yadda yadda. But don't give me that. No matter what era, a normal person with normal empathy would know that terrorizing a family member is not cool.
Sorry, next.
And the free sample. Which seems a bit preachy. I don't think this book is for me after all. God can love and forgive a rapist if he wants to but the victims should not be required to. It's not a heartwarming message of love and redemption, it supports spousal abuse and misogyny. And I don't want to read about a rapey Darcy, an Elizabeth who is so devoid of any self-worth that she spends her life making excuses for her abuser, or a God that thinks this is somehow desirable. Women get victimized far too much even without books that imply it's OK as long as you pray in the end. If there is rape, the happy ending is when Elizabeth gets away and never needs to see Darcy ever again. Her children do not deserve a rapist for a father.
Darcy, you can pray all day long, and it may make you feel better about yourself. It may give you a lovely self-righteous glow and help you forgive yourself for being a rapist jerk. But it does not un-rape your victim, it does not un-abuse those you abused, and it does not undo the traumatic effects of any of your heinous deeds. I know you were a child of a different time, and a wife had few to no rights, and raping her may not have been a crime, and I've got modern sensibilities, yadda yadda. But don't give me that. No matter what era, a normal person with normal empathy would know that terrorizing a family member is not cool.
Sorry, next.
September 12, 2016
I have read over 300 variations of Austen's Pride and Prejudice, and Georgia McCall's novel Obligation and Redemption is one is definitely in my Top Five Austen-based novels. I think that out of all of my reviews, I've only given a handful of "5" ratings to variations of Austen's novels, saving that esteemed number of perfection for classics such as Jane Eyre and Pride and Prejudice itself. But if I had a "6" rating available, I'd give it to this book.
This is not a light and fluffy variation; it ventures into the deep, dark depths of the human soul and stays there for quite a while; hope seems distant at best and impossible at worst. Obligation and Redemption is for lovers of angst, and, for that reason, I simply couldn't put it down. In fact, I lost a whole day of grading and lesson prep on Saturday because I had to know what happened next and how this twisty-turny plot was going to somehow resolve. At times, resolution seemed absolutely impossible.
McCall's Darcy is darker than we see in most depictions of Austen's famed hero. I noted several outraged Darcy fans when I perused the reviews, but I thought that this Darcy was far less perfect and far more human, and I liked him all the better for it. I enjoyed not seeing Darcy fawning over Elizabeth from their earliest meetings; I thought his disdain and distrust were far more natural reactions to the overall situation for a man of his position and pride. He is suspicious of Elizabeth's motives from the very first and thinks the worst of her at almost every opportunity. The time it takes for both Darcy and Elizabeth to admire and trust one another seems realistic, especially given the various plot twists that cast serious doubts on the merits of the other.
And Elizabeth is not depicted as perfect, either; she has her obvious failings of temper and understanding, but she is the more forgiving of the two--and more forgiving of her own mistakes and prejudices. The experiences she undergoes would have been the ruination of many a delicate gentlewoman, but Elizabeth is strong, and despite all the forces aligned against her, she fights bitterness at the difficulties of her situation and attempts to find contentment despite the fact that a single act of kindness has apparently ruined her life.
Christian elements of sin and redemption are woven into this novel, but not in the obtrusive or sickly-sweet manner often seen in Christian literature. It's a subtle theme, one that shouldn't be a bother to most non-Christians but one which Christians should greatly appreciate. But in the climax of the plot, Darcy has what can be compared to a modern Road-to-Damascus moment in which he, like Saint Paul, realizes the extent of his sin; as a result, Darcy returns to Pemberley a changed man. We can't help sighing with relief as Darcy finally recognizes his hypocrisy, his unmerited pride, and even his unconscious cruelty as he vows to become a man worthy of a loving wife.
Many evil machinations provide plot twists that keep us guessing throughout the book. Obviously, as a variation of Austen's romantic novel, we know that Darcy and Elizabeth will eventually reconcile and fall in love, but the strength of this particular variation is that one impediment after another keeps Darcy and Elizabeth from loving and trusting one another. They have a long, difficult journey to respecting and loving one another, but it's a journey made all the sweeter by the many woes they've endured and fears they've conquered.
My only wish for this book was that we could have enjoyed a couple more chapters of Darcy and Elizabeth's happiness together near the end. After so much angst and on-the-edge-of-my-seat drama, I would have liked to have basked in their love just a wee bit longer; the ending of the book would have been even more satisfying.
I look forward to re-reading Obligation and Redemption often in the years to come; it has already claimed a treasured place in my library and definitely in my heart. It's brilliant, unflinching, and so heart-rending; in fact, I caught myself reaching for the tissue box more than once over these 500+ pages. For me, reading this lengthy novel was well-worth the time; I was rather sad when the book ended. Obligation and Redemption is one of those rare books that cause us to sigh in satisfaction when we finish it...and then forces us to flip back to the first chapter and immediately start reading it again.
Yes, it's that good.
This is not a light and fluffy variation; it ventures into the deep, dark depths of the human soul and stays there for quite a while; hope seems distant at best and impossible at worst. Obligation and Redemption is for lovers of angst, and, for that reason, I simply couldn't put it down. In fact, I lost a whole day of grading and lesson prep on Saturday because I had to know what happened next and how this twisty-turny plot was going to somehow resolve. At times, resolution seemed absolutely impossible.
McCall's Darcy is darker than we see in most depictions of Austen's famed hero. I noted several outraged Darcy fans when I perused the reviews, but I thought that this Darcy was far less perfect and far more human, and I liked him all the better for it. I enjoyed not seeing Darcy fawning over Elizabeth from their earliest meetings; I thought his disdain and distrust were far more natural reactions to the overall situation for a man of his position and pride. He is suspicious of Elizabeth's motives from the very first and thinks the worst of her at almost every opportunity. The time it takes for both Darcy and Elizabeth to admire and trust one another seems realistic, especially given the various plot twists that cast serious doubts on the merits of the other.
And Elizabeth is not depicted as perfect, either; she has her obvious failings of temper and understanding, but she is the more forgiving of the two--and more forgiving of her own mistakes and prejudices. The experiences she undergoes would have been the ruination of many a delicate gentlewoman, but Elizabeth is strong, and despite all the forces aligned against her, she fights bitterness at the difficulties of her situation and attempts to find contentment despite the fact that a single act of kindness has apparently ruined her life.
Christian elements of sin and redemption are woven into this novel, but not in the obtrusive or sickly-sweet manner often seen in Christian literature. It's a subtle theme, one that shouldn't be a bother to most non-Christians but one which Christians should greatly appreciate. But in the climax of the plot, Darcy has what can be compared to a modern Road-to-Damascus moment in which he, like Saint Paul, realizes the extent of his sin; as a result, Darcy returns to Pemberley a changed man. We can't help sighing with relief as Darcy finally recognizes his hypocrisy, his unmerited pride, and even his unconscious cruelty as he vows to become a man worthy of a loving wife.
Many evil machinations provide plot twists that keep us guessing throughout the book. Obviously, as a variation of Austen's romantic novel, we know that Darcy and Elizabeth will eventually reconcile and fall in love, but the strength of this particular variation is that one impediment after another keeps Darcy and Elizabeth from loving and trusting one another. They have a long, difficult journey to respecting and loving one another, but it's a journey made all the sweeter by the many woes they've endured and fears they've conquered.
My only wish for this book was that we could have enjoyed a couple more chapters of Darcy and Elizabeth's happiness together near the end. After so much angst and on-the-edge-of-my-seat drama, I would have liked to have basked in their love just a wee bit longer; the ending of the book would have been even more satisfying.
I look forward to re-reading Obligation and Redemption often in the years to come; it has already claimed a treasured place in my library and definitely in my heart. It's brilliant, unflinching, and so heart-rending; in fact, I caught myself reaching for the tissue box more than once over these 500+ pages. For me, reading this lengthy novel was well-worth the time; I was rather sad when the book ended. Obligation and Redemption is one of those rare books that cause us to sigh in satisfaction when we finish it...and then forces us to flip back to the first chapter and immediately start reading it again.
Yes, it's that good.
January 23, 2018
Fairly raw story
This is probably a 5 star book but to me the story subject was so painful to read I considered it a 3 star book. So I split the difference and gave it a 4.
Excellent writing but the subject matter was so dark I could not enjoy it. But I’m kind of a wuss so don’t let me scare you off if you don’t mind most of the aristocracy being bad guys.
As one other reviewer said, once you get to the 88 or 89 percent mark, the good guys win.
This is probably a 5 star book but to me the story subject was so painful to read I considered it a 3 star book. So I split the difference and gave it a 4.
Excellent writing but the subject matter was so dark I could not enjoy it. But I’m kind of a wuss so don’t let me scare you off if you don’t mind most of the aristocracy being bad guys.
As one other reviewer said, once you get to the 88 or 89 percent mark, the good guys win.
September 6, 2016
Okay, so after reading reviews I wasn't even sure I wanted to read this, but it was on Kindle Unlimited so I figured I had nothing to lose. As to the complaints about how awful Mr. Darcy is in this variation, they are overstated. I think some have really overly romanticized the character of Darcy through other variations and the film adaptations. I did not find it hard to believe that he would be that awful if he thought he was trapped into marriage with an inferior. It was equally easy to believe that he might force his "husbandly rights" on Elizabeth as well. I think some of those who were affronted by his behavior are not thinking of the story in the context of the time period and the fact that a wife basically became a man's possession after marriage. And in this case where Darcy felt Elizabeth was so far below him and brought no money or standing to the marriage, it is not unheard of that he would think that her body was the only thing she had on offer, and so he took what was his. Obviously, through the lense of the 21st century, this seems cruel, even criminal, but at the time, it seems highly plausible. I also saw a couple of mentions of the religious references in the work. Believe me, I am the first to criticize when I think an author is being ham-handed with the Christianity, but in this one, I thought it was easy enough to ignore if you so chose. It wasn't really force fed like it sometimes can be.
There is one criticism though that I agree with whole heartedly. This book is waaaayyy too long. When you think about the length of the original Pride & Prejudice, I don't understand how variation authors can stretch that into this kind of tome. This story could have easily been told in half the words and been all the better for it. Overall though, I have to say the book was well written and engaging if a little verbose.
There is one criticism though that I agree with whole heartedly. This book is waaaayyy too long. When you think about the length of the original Pride & Prejudice, I don't understand how variation authors can stretch that into this kind of tome. This story could have easily been told in half the words and been all the better for it. Overall though, I have to say the book was well written and engaging if a little verbose.
August 22, 2016
This book made me love it and hate it. The author used some very quotable phrases that I plan to use upon occasion in everyday life. I would like to read this one again with a note pad to scratch down a few that have already returned to their paper form.
I didn't find the characters particularly changed from canon but their most favored characteristics were not displayed to the fullest.
The sexual scene that many reviews discuss was not overly dramatic or abusive, in my opinion. I am certain women of the time were often treated much worse as they were oftentimes objects of possession rather than respected marital partners. Darcy took what was rightfully his, there was no beating or bruising involved. -stating this in case readers may have avoided the book due to an abusive scene.
Of course, thankfully, today men generally respect their wives. And if not, women have recourse and laws that offer some protection.
I didn't find the characters particularly changed from canon but their most favored characteristics were not displayed to the fullest.
The sexual scene that many reviews discuss was not overly dramatic or abusive, in my opinion. I am certain women of the time were often treated much worse as they were oftentimes objects of possession rather than respected marital partners. Darcy took what was rightfully his, there was no beating or bruising involved. -stating this in case readers may have avoided the book due to an abusive scene.
Of course, thankfully, today men generally respect their wives. And if not, women have recourse and laws that offer some protection.
September 7, 2016
Truly rewarding
I almost skipped this book because of some negative reviews, and I must say that I am so very glad I didn't!! Darcy is a beast, truly, at first. I felt he was in the original source material as well, so I can find no fault in this portrayal. He becomes a better man, as in P&P, but under different circumstances and after Elizabeth had had to deal with his pride and selfish distain on a more more personal level, marrying him before becoming his saving grace instead of after. I enjoyed the journey, though it is truly angsty through half of the book, so this would be my only warning, if that isn't something you enjoy.
The dialogue is beautiful, the plots and twists well thought out and the resolution satisfying. You will not regret taking the 13 hours it takes to read it!
I almost skipped this book because of some negative reviews, and I must say that I am so very glad I didn't!! Darcy is a beast, truly, at first. I felt he was in the original source material as well, so I can find no fault in this portrayal. He becomes a better man, as in P&P, but under different circumstances and after Elizabeth had had to deal with his pride and selfish distain on a more more personal level, marrying him before becoming his saving grace instead of after. I enjoyed the journey, though it is truly angsty through half of the book, so this would be my only warning, if that isn't something you enjoy.
The dialogue is beautiful, the plots and twists well thought out and the resolution satisfying. You will not regret taking the 13 hours it takes to read it!
August 31, 2016
Long and enjoyable
I enjoyed this very long book, but felt there were some areas where there could have been improvement. Certain conversations were repeated where this was not absolutely necessary. The author seems to have little knowledge of the value of money at this time and just a few Americanisms have crept in. However I enjoyed reading it and I will look for other books by this author.
I enjoyed this very long book, but felt there were some areas where there could have been improvement. Certain conversations were repeated where this was not absolutely necessary. The author seems to have little knowledge of the value of money at this time and just a few Americanisms have crept in. However I enjoyed reading it and I will look for other books by this author.
August 21, 2016
In this Darcy compromise story, Darcy is an ass. At least to start. There is no better way to say it. I feel that the author did a good job really taking his pride to a new level. He then has an epiphany to realize what an amazing woman he is married to. I was taken back by the shocking story line with Darcy's cousin but it added to the misunderstandings in an extreme way.
January 28, 2018
Warning! Trash alert
3 counts of rape by Mr. Darcy of Mrs. Darcy. Upchuck. $00.99 cents would be too much. Free is too much money.
3 counts of rape by Mr. Darcy of Mrs. Darcy. Upchuck. $00.99 cents would be too much. Free is too much money.
December 30, 2021
I waffled between 3 and 4 stars for this book. It was brutal. Darcy is worse than proud; he’s entitled and cruel. He has no empathy towards Elizabeth as a human being, let alone a woman. I knew going into this that Elizabeth was raped; for some reason, I did not realize that she was raped by her own husband. The rapes are not graphically depicted, yet they leave you emotionally devastated for Elizabeth. Darcy justifies his actions by saying he is within his legal rights; Elizabeth must do her marital duty. At one point, he is pondering how an act that can give a man so much pleasure can cause a wife so much pain. Is there something wrong with Elizabeth? I will say that Elizabeth gave unwilling consent the first two times, so it was iffy. Darcy was not tender, did not kiss her, and did not touch her other than to get himself inside her & please himself. So, if I don’t consider the first two times outright rape, they at least show that Darcy is a selfish lover who’s terrible at the act. To make the wedding night worse, Elizabeth hasn’t been told what will happen. Darcy is aware of this, yet leaves her in ignorance to wonder what he is doing to her. Even knowing how painful and traumatic the experience was for Elizabeth, Darcy ponders while in his room how he’d go back and repeat it for his own gratification if he wanted her again. He kind of breaks the disgust-o-meter at this point.
The third encounter was most definitely rape & Darcy forced Elizabeth while he was jealous and angry. Darcy is finally shocked and ashamed of his own behavior. Here is where redemption comes into the story. I personally think that you have to buy into the Christian aspect to believe Darcy’s self examination and discovery that he has behaved like a beast. He comes to see Elizabeth for the treasure that she is, and tries to rectify his past mistreatment. He vows to himself and Elizabeth that he won’t come to her bed unless he is invited. He slowly introduces kissing and begins to woo his wife in earnest.
The writing is excellent, and the story evokes strong feelings that stay with you. I’d say that the man at the beginning grows into an honorable Mr Darcy. It’s not just up to Elizabeth, but up to the reader to decide if he can ever be forgiven for his past deeds.
The third encounter was most definitely rape & Darcy forced Elizabeth while he was jealous and angry. Darcy is finally shocked and ashamed of his own behavior. Here is where redemption comes into the story. I personally think that you have to buy into the Christian aspect to believe Darcy’s self examination and discovery that he has behaved like a beast. He comes to see Elizabeth for the treasure that she is, and tries to rectify his past mistreatment. He vows to himself and Elizabeth that he won’t come to her bed unless he is invited. He slowly introduces kissing and begins to woo his wife in earnest.
The writing is excellent, and the story evokes strong feelings that stay with you. I’d say that the man at the beginning grows into an honorable Mr Darcy. It’s not just up to Elizabeth, but up to the reader to decide if he can ever be forgiven for his past deeds.
June 29, 2019
4 1/2 stars. Kindle Unlimited
January 7, 2020
This book was a struggle. While there were things I liked, as a whole, I just didn't like it. First of all, it was WAY TOO LONG. I had to skim through many parts to get through it. Too many situations were told in great detail first from either E or D's POV and then again from the other.
While I realize this is a complete deviation from canon, I felt that D & E's characters were too changed to be recognizable as Austen's beloved characters. Yes, Darcy was arrogant and acted poorly, but that's mostly because he is being held more to what we would expect of a hero in our time and age. According to that era, he really wasn't a villain at all. He was basically a decent and honorable person with flaws mostly concerning his pride. The Longbourn bedroom scene being the exception.
Elizabeth was more OOC than Darcy in my opinion. I didn't care for her in this. Yes, I felt bad for her in her undesirable and unwanted situation, but she also got on my last nerve. Not that the situation with Langston was anything but horribe in every way as well as the Longbourn bedroom scene. She, however, was much more naive than our beloved heroine and she often acted as a petulant child throwing tantrums and stomping out of the room. She didn't even try to make peace with her situation and didn't even try to find any kind of acceptance through the majority of the book. Again, I feel like we are identifying with her from a modern perspective which is not in accordance with that era. In those days, women did belong to their husbands and were expected to be directed by and expected to comply with the husbands wishes on all matters. This was true in happy marriages as well as unhappy ones. That's just the way it was. Yes, I'm sure women would hope for a kind and reasonable husband, which Darcy didn't completely fail at for the most part. Elizabeth was very immature through most of the book and her behavior had me struggling to feel sorry for her in many parts. I guess I have a problem with any book where I really don't like our supercouple through most of it. They are too precious to me.
While I realize this is a complete deviation from canon, I felt that D & E's characters were too changed to be recognizable as Austen's beloved characters. Yes, Darcy was arrogant and acted poorly, but that's mostly because he is being held more to what we would expect of a hero in our time and age. According to that era, he really wasn't a villain at all. He was basically a decent and honorable person with flaws mostly concerning his pride. The Longbourn bedroom scene being the exception.
Elizabeth was more OOC than Darcy in my opinion. I didn't care for her in this. Yes, I felt bad for her in her undesirable and unwanted situation, but she also got on my last nerve. Not that the situation with Langston was anything but horribe in every way as well as the Longbourn bedroom scene. She, however, was much more naive than our beloved heroine and she often acted as a petulant child throwing tantrums and stomping out of the room. She didn't even try to make peace with her situation and didn't even try to find any kind of acceptance through the majority of the book. Again, I feel like we are identifying with her from a modern perspective which is not in accordance with that era. In those days, women did belong to their husbands and were expected to be directed by and expected to comply with the husbands wishes on all matters. This was true in happy marriages as well as unhappy ones. That's just the way it was. Yes, I'm sure women would hope for a kind and reasonable husband, which Darcy didn't completely fail at for the most part. Elizabeth was very immature through most of the book and her behavior had me struggling to feel sorry for her in many parts. I guess I have a problem with any book where I really don't like our supercouple through most of it. They are too precious to me.
August 13, 2016
Consuming!
OMG! I must say, if you are looking for a P&P variation to read, this story is worth the read! The author has made this a very interesting story, which has kept me in suspense with anticipation just to see it through. Because really, how could she turn a beautiful historical piece of romance literature into.... into.... well if you read it, you would understand and agree... WOW! This story kept up with the original but from a different aspect. Under different circumstances of "what if." The author did a fantastic job and I was astounded at how easy it flowed with the same characters but not really deviating much from the original.
The price of the book is very good for the length of the story. It is dark. Not a typical P&P variation but well worth it. A lot of Darcy and his conflicted domineering criticism, "class" segregation with those of consequence, ways. Yes, there is "matrimonial" rape. Darcy thinking of himself, selfishly. Women didn't have rights and in that time period, no questions or morals were required from the men. As the story progresses, the Darcy we know, emerges and learns from his errors and is humbled by his Elizabeth.
I agree with some reviewers, this is not a book to be read by anyone who has had an abusive relationship of any sort. It can be disturbing to ones sensibilities.
A very interesting, fast page turner, for me personally and a P&P variation to add to ones collection. I have no regrets and I enjoyed the suspense of it.
OMG! I must say, if you are looking for a P&P variation to read, this story is worth the read! The author has made this a very interesting story, which has kept me in suspense with anticipation just to see it through. Because really, how could she turn a beautiful historical piece of romance literature into.... into.... well if you read it, you would understand and agree... WOW! This story kept up with the original but from a different aspect. Under different circumstances of "what if." The author did a fantastic job and I was astounded at how easy it flowed with the same characters but not really deviating much from the original.
The price of the book is very good for the length of the story. It is dark. Not a typical P&P variation but well worth it. A lot of Darcy and his conflicted domineering criticism, "class" segregation with those of consequence, ways. Yes, there is "matrimonial" rape. Darcy thinking of himself, selfishly. Women didn't have rights and in that time period, no questions or morals were required from the men. As the story progresses, the Darcy we know, emerges and learns from his errors and is humbled by his Elizabeth.
I agree with some reviewers, this is not a book to be read by anyone who has had an abusive relationship of any sort. It can be disturbing to ones sensibilities.
A very interesting, fast page turner, for me personally and a P&P variation to add to ones collection. I have no regrets and I enjoyed the suspense of it.
October 7, 2016
Christian Fan Fiction without the warning
While the writing was very good, the story synopsis and even most of the reviews failed to mention that this it's clearly Christian Fan fiction. I have no objection to that sub-genre but would have loved to know before I invested so much time in the story. This theme is barely a faint drip in the background during the first third of the book. However, as it reaches the climax, it has all the subtlety of a fire hose. For such excellent writing, this is a shame.
While the writing was very good, the story synopsis and even most of the reviews failed to mention that this it's clearly Christian Fan fiction. I have no objection to that sub-genre but would have loved to know before I invested so much time in the story. This theme is barely a faint drip in the background during the first third of the book. However, as it reaches the climax, it has all the subtlety of a fire hose. For such excellent writing, this is a shame.
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