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Ardently: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Librarian Note: Alternate/new cover edition of ISBN-10 #1514334321 / ISBN-13 #978-1514334324.
So much in life depends on chance and sheer luck. How much do we often owe to being in the right place at the right time?
In Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet plans to visit the Lake District with her uncle and aunt, yet ends up at Pemberley instead, just as, by coincidence, Mr Darcy also arrives home. They meet, understand one another better and all eventually ends well.
But what if they did not have such luck? What if Elizabeth actually went to the Lake District and was nowhere near Pemberley, and she and Mr Darcy never met again until another four years had gone by?
Now they are very different people, altered by marriage, time and situation, although, Mr Darcy's failed proposal in the Parsonage at Hunsford still haunts both of them in different ways.
Elizabeth is a companion to her Aunt, Mrs Mountford, a widow of great standing in society who married exceptionally well and 'Miss Bennet' finds herself accepted in the very best of circles and able to marry whomever she might chose.
Mr Darcy did his duty by his sickly cousin, Anne de Bourgh, and married her to protect her from the tyrannical force of her mother Lady Catherine. He has come to Bath, however, a widower, with his family, the Fitzwilliams, and his sister, Georgiana. Darcy sees Elizabeth, the woman who rejected him, in the opposite box at the theatre and cannot help falling in love with her all over again. Now though, it seems there are even more hurdles to overcome for them to be together, including Elizabeth's new suitor, the handsome and charming Mr Yorke.
Mr Darcy is still a little proud, still not able to 'perform to strangers'. Can Elizabeth see past his reserve and awkwardness to the decent man underneath?
This book is a re-telling of Pride and Prejudice from Chapter 36 onwards (Darcy's failed proposal and the delivering of his letter). It is a light-hearted mix-up of Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion, with a nod and a wink towards Northanger Abbey.
So much in life depends on chance and sheer luck. How much do we often owe to being in the right place at the right time?
In Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet plans to visit the Lake District with her uncle and aunt, yet ends up at Pemberley instead, just as, by coincidence, Mr Darcy also arrives home. They meet, understand one another better and all eventually ends well.
But what if they did not have such luck? What if Elizabeth actually went to the Lake District and was nowhere near Pemberley, and she and Mr Darcy never met again until another four years had gone by?
Now they are very different people, altered by marriage, time and situation, although, Mr Darcy's failed proposal in the Parsonage at Hunsford still haunts both of them in different ways.
Elizabeth is a companion to her Aunt, Mrs Mountford, a widow of great standing in society who married exceptionally well and 'Miss Bennet' finds herself accepted in the very best of circles and able to marry whomever she might chose.
Mr Darcy did his duty by his sickly cousin, Anne de Bourgh, and married her to protect her from the tyrannical force of her mother Lady Catherine. He has come to Bath, however, a widower, with his family, the Fitzwilliams, and his sister, Georgiana. Darcy sees Elizabeth, the woman who rejected him, in the opposite box at the theatre and cannot help falling in love with her all over again. Now though, it seems there are even more hurdles to overcome for them to be together, including Elizabeth's new suitor, the handsome and charming Mr Yorke.
Mr Darcy is still a little proud, still not able to 'perform to strangers'. Can Elizabeth see past his reserve and awkwardness to the decent man underneath?
This book is a re-telling of Pride and Prejudice from Chapter 36 onwards (Darcy's failed proposal and the delivering of his letter). It is a light-hearted mix-up of Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion, with a nod and a wink towards Northanger Abbey.
310 pages, Paperback
First published June 7, 2015
76 people are currently reading
772 people want to read
About the author
Caitlin Williams
8 books218 followersCaitlin Williams lives in Kent, England, with her family.
She fell in love with all things Regency as a teenager, but particularly admires the work of Jane Austen and the way she masterfully combines humour and romance, while weaving them through such wonderful stories and characters.
Her debut novel, Ardently, was written as a hobby, usually with her laptop balanced on the kitchen worktop, typing with one hand, a glass of wine in the other, while she also attempted to cook dinner and keep her children from killing each other.
She has since written the award-wining The Coming of Age of Elizabeth Bennet and When We Are Married. Her latest novel is The Events at Branxbourne. They are all Austenesque novels set in the Pride and Prejudice universe.
She fell in love with all things Regency as a teenager, but particularly admires the work of Jane Austen and the way she masterfully combines humour and romance, while weaving them through such wonderful stories and characters.
Her debut novel, Ardently, was written as a hobby, usually with her laptop balanced on the kitchen worktop, typing with one hand, a glass of wine in the other, while she also attempted to cook dinner and keep her children from killing each other.
She has since written the award-wining The Coming of Age of Elizabeth Bennet and When We Are Married. Her latest novel is The Events at Branxbourne. They are all Austenesque novels set in the Pride and Prejudice universe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
February 2, 2024
Quite possibly this is the absolute best P & P what if I have read. This is a new and unique story told with a great deal of nuance. It keeps your attention from the beginning to end and slowly doles out bits of information.
(I reread this book and it gets better with each visit)
I really must applaud the author for taking an original spin. What if Lizzy and the Gardiners went to the Lake District as planned and never went anywhere near Derbyshire or Pemberley. So Lizzy and Darcy don't reconnect, Bingley never sees Lizzy and Lydia doesn't elope with Wickham.
This story opens a year after Lizzy's return from Rosings. Mr Darcy has married his cousin Anne. Jane has a suitor, a tradesman, Lydia is married to Denny and living in Newcastle. Mr. Bennet announces that his sister is recently widowed and hopes to heal the family discord by having one of his daughters visit. Lizzy is chosen and she heads off to her aunt's home.
Four years pass, Lizzy and her aunt are the best of friends and decide to visit Bath. This is where a majority of the story unfolds. Almost immediately they run into Miss Bingbong (Bingley) and Miss Darcy at the Pump Room. Soon many of the your P&P favorites arrive as well as some new characters.
Lizzy immediately attracts the attention of a Mr Yorke, a man of Darcy's class due to inherit a smaller estate. A widowed Darcy comes to Bath. Over the course of the story much of Mr. Darcy's improved character is revealed and Lizzy is able to compare and contrast him with other men.
In this story we are witness to Lizzy's complete change of opinion of Mr. Darcy and her shedding her prejudice about his manners. while Darcy slowly reveals his continuing and strong love for Lizzy. Every little hint and tease at the beginning of the book is answered by the end.
One of my favorite passages is this "The only thing I will really insist upon is an enduring love. The type that transcends time and distance, and survives misunderstandings. The kind the forgives and grows."
This is a book I know I will want to read again and again.
(I reread this book and it gets better with each visit)
I really must applaud the author for taking an original spin. What if Lizzy and the Gardiners went to the Lake District as planned and never went anywhere near Derbyshire or Pemberley. So Lizzy and Darcy don't reconnect, Bingley never sees Lizzy and Lydia doesn't elope with Wickham.
This story opens a year after Lizzy's return from Rosings. Mr Darcy has married his cousin Anne. Jane has a suitor, a tradesman, Lydia is married to Denny and living in Newcastle. Mr. Bennet announces that his sister is recently widowed and hopes to heal the family discord by having one of his daughters visit. Lizzy is chosen and she heads off to her aunt's home.
Four years pass, Lizzy and her aunt are the best of friends and decide to visit Bath. This is where a majority of the story unfolds. Almost immediately they run into Miss Bingbong (Bingley) and Miss Darcy at the Pump Room. Soon many of the your P&P favorites arrive as well as some new characters.
Lizzy immediately attracts the attention of a Mr Yorke, a man of Darcy's class due to inherit a smaller estate. A widowed Darcy comes to Bath. Over the course of the story much of Mr. Darcy's improved character is revealed and Lizzy is able to compare and contrast him with other men.
In this story we are witness to Lizzy's complete change of opinion of Mr. Darcy and her shedding her prejudice about his manners. while Darcy slowly reveals his continuing and strong love for Lizzy. Every little hint and tease at the beginning of the book is answered by the end.
One of my favorite passages is this "The only thing I will really insist upon is an enduring love. The type that transcends time and distance, and survives misunderstandings. The kind the forgives and grows."
This is a book I know I will want to read again and again.
April 26, 2019
There have been many blogs, and even books, recently which have spoken about the event of coincidence. My purchase of this book was such. I had not planned on its purchase, it had not been recommended to me nor were there reviews to bring it to my attention. Indeed, it was only in a casual perusal of an offering in my in-box from Amazon during which I made a choice to scroll to the book on the right and take a look at the book description. I must say, the author of such composed it well. It piqued my curiosity; I then read the Sample and was hooked. And to top off what I have just said, this book too, takes the matter of coincidence as a force to bring our dear couple together.
This is not a long book (205 pages): I read it in a few hours. But it brought me to tears quite often…poignant, sweet, full of angst and totally satisfying. There are some errata, i.e., diner/dinner, he/his, but not enough to cause me a great deal of exasperation. The characters we read of are mostly familiar to us: Elizabeth, Darcy, Georgiana, Caroline Bingley, Lord and Lady Matlock, Col. Fitzwilliam, Jane and very briefly, the other Bennets. We meet a Mrs. Mountford and a Mr. Yorke and his two sisters. Most of the book is set in Bath.
As the book sample and the book description will tell you, this is set some four years after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford. Elizabeth did receive that letter AND has kept it and re-read it and considers it as the closest thing to a love letter she has and may ever receive. No, she has not married. But she now resides with an aunt, her father’s sister, Mrs. Mountford, in her estate, Oakdene, in Staffordshire. A casual mention by Elizabeth that she has never visited Bath causes her aunt to decide that they must correct that oversight. Furthermore, not only her aunt’s consequence and wealth but also that aunt’s friendship with the Viscountess Winslow thrust them into the highest circles in that town’s society.
So things have changed: of the Bennet sisters – Mary and Lizzy remain unmarried, Darcy, too, has married, Georgiana has invited Caroline to accompany her to Bath and Bingley: well, he never returned to Netherfield. We read of thoughts from both Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s POV. She remembers her harsh words to him upon refusing him and she knows he has since married. But she has not seen him in all this time. Darcy: well, I don’t want to reveal what his circumstances are as you really must read all the details for yourself. But know this: you will be surprised by some of the events, the true details of which are not revealed until the end. Then there are some facts also at the onset which may surprise you but then again, if you know Darcy’s esteem for members of his family and his generosity, may not be truly a twist in this story.
I only yesterday finished reading Mr. Darcy’s Rival and in this story we also read of such...a rival. Mr. Yorke is taken with Elizabeth from the moment he espies her in her finery and with a diamond pendant around her neck at the opera. He ardently pursues her, he is everything charming, he is very attentive, he is handsome and gossip has them married with her already indisposed the next summer due to her confinement!
Elizabeth knows that she may meet Mr. Darcy and frets that he may snub her due to her last words to him. She wants only to apologize and be forgiven. Is she afforded the chance or do these two people continue to misinterpret the looks, the words and even the small actions taken while in each other’s company?
The author uses some of Jane Austen’s words, as do many JAFF authors, but again, from others’ mouths and in different circumstances or with varying purposes. “He said your looks had so altered he would not have recognized you.” (Ouch!)
But also, "The only thing I really insist upon is an enduring love. The type that transcends time and distance and survives misunderstandings. The kind that forgives and grows."
We do get our HEA and the tale while reaching such was very captivating for me. I do recommend this story. The author is completely new for me. I would read other offerings from her and will look for such.
I just re-read this a couple of days ago and must say it drew me in just as "ardently", kept me glued to the pages and left me blurry-eyed at times, also. Loved it just as much the second time through as the first.
This is not a long book (205 pages): I read it in a few hours. But it brought me to tears quite often…poignant, sweet, full of angst and totally satisfying. There are some errata, i.e., diner/dinner, he/his, but not enough to cause me a great deal of exasperation. The characters we read of are mostly familiar to us: Elizabeth, Darcy, Georgiana, Caroline Bingley, Lord and Lady Matlock, Col. Fitzwilliam, Jane and very briefly, the other Bennets. We meet a Mrs. Mountford and a Mr. Yorke and his two sisters. Most of the book is set in Bath.
As the book sample and the book description will tell you, this is set some four years after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford. Elizabeth did receive that letter AND has kept it and re-read it and considers it as the closest thing to a love letter she has and may ever receive. No, she has not married. But she now resides with an aunt, her father’s sister, Mrs. Mountford, in her estate, Oakdene, in Staffordshire. A casual mention by Elizabeth that she has never visited Bath causes her aunt to decide that they must correct that oversight. Furthermore, not only her aunt’s consequence and wealth but also that aunt’s friendship with the Viscountess Winslow thrust them into the highest circles in that town’s society.
So things have changed: of the Bennet sisters – Mary and Lizzy remain unmarried, Darcy, too, has married, Georgiana has invited Caroline to accompany her to Bath and Bingley: well, he never returned to Netherfield. We read of thoughts from both Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s POV. She remembers her harsh words to him upon refusing him and she knows he has since married. But she has not seen him in all this time. Darcy: well, I don’t want to reveal what his circumstances are as you really must read all the details for yourself. But know this: you will be surprised by some of the events, the true details of which are not revealed until the end. Then there are some facts also at the onset which may surprise you but then again, if you know Darcy’s esteem for members of his family and his generosity, may not be truly a twist in this story.
I only yesterday finished reading Mr. Darcy’s Rival and in this story we also read of such...a rival. Mr. Yorke is taken with Elizabeth from the moment he espies her in her finery and with a diamond pendant around her neck at the opera. He ardently pursues her, he is everything charming, he is very attentive, he is handsome and gossip has them married with her already indisposed the next summer due to her confinement!
Elizabeth knows that she may meet Mr. Darcy and frets that he may snub her due to her last words to him. She wants only to apologize and be forgiven. Is she afforded the chance or do these two people continue to misinterpret the looks, the words and even the small actions taken while in each other’s company?
The author uses some of Jane Austen’s words, as do many JAFF authors, but again, from others’ mouths and in different circumstances or with varying purposes. “He said your looks had so altered he would not have recognized you.” (Ouch!)
But also, "The only thing I really insist upon is an enduring love. The type that transcends time and distance and survives misunderstandings. The kind that forgives and grows."
We do get our HEA and the tale while reaching such was very captivating for me. I do recommend this story. The author is completely new for me. I would read other offerings from her and will look for such.
I just re-read this a couple of days ago and must say it drew me in just as "ardently", kept me glued to the pages and left me blurry-eyed at times, also. Loved it just as much the second time through as the first.
September 5, 2024
Absolutely perfect story. What little angst there is is mild angst. Little bits of humor to make everything enjoyable. I don’t believe I will say much about the story. Plenty of others have given it a rundown. If you are reading this, don’t read anything else. Just rent, buy or checkout the book and read it without knowing anything about it. I GUARANTEE you will love it
I recommend this book highly. I’ve read it three times and it is one of my five favorite JAFF variations.
I recommend this book highly. I’ve read it three times and it is one of my five favorite JAFF variations.
April 17, 2017
2017 re-read.
Just as delightful second time round!
****************************************
Oh! I loved this book !
It is so sweet and charming that I found myself simply carried away by the twists and turns of the story.
It is beautifully written with some very funny and clever dialogue that only adds to the chemistry between Darcy and Lizzy.
.....the dinner for Mrs Yorke.... The letter to Mr Bennet.....Lizzy's rush to farewell Darcy not realising where he was bound......
This is just a fantastic book-one that you, dear reader, have to experience for yourself to understand its true merits.
You will inevitably turn its last page with a beguiling smile on your face ..... a smile that will not have been a stranger to you while savouring every word of this story!
I hope you ardently admire and love it as much as I!
Just as delightful second time round!
****************************************
Oh! I loved this book !
It is so sweet and charming that I found myself simply carried away by the twists and turns of the story.
It is beautifully written with some very funny and clever dialogue that only adds to the chemistry between Darcy and Lizzy.
.....the dinner for Mrs Yorke.... The letter to Mr Bennet.....Lizzy's rush to farewell Darcy not realising where he was bound......
This is just a fantastic book-one that you, dear reader, have to experience for yourself to understand its true merits.
You will inevitably turn its last page with a beguiling smile on your face ..... a smile that will not have been a stranger to you while savouring every word of this story!
I hope you ardently admire and love it as much as I!
September 8, 2017
I received a paperback copy of this book from The Darcy Monologues raffle and so reread it in paperback. Loved it all over again.
I had the privilege recently of reading Caitlin Williams’ next book, When We Marry. It was, again, a book I could not put down and received a 5 star rating from me.
Initially, we are in Hunsford after “that proposal”; Elizabeth has received Mr. Darcy’s letter written in response to her vehement rejection. When she returns from her walk and after her reading and rereading of his letter she finds that Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam are waiting at the parsonage to say their farewells. Elizabeth seeks to find a way to give Mr. Darcy a hint of how she now feels and so she asks if a letter to Jane might be delivered. Then she asks for Darcy’s help in mending her pen (sounds like Caroline here) and when he goes over to the table at which she is writing, she has penned a short note apologizing to him.
It is a beginning to the change in her opinions and in his addresses to correct his disdain and his interference between Jane and Mr. Bingley. But now he has an excuse to visit Gracechurch Street and decides to take Bingley with him.
BUT, lo and behold, Bingley is not of a mind to now be persuaded to revisit his past feelings towards Jane. Darcy thinks of how unfortunate it is that now Bingley has decided to no longer yield to the opinions of other. What to do? He decides to visit the Gardiners and Jane all on his own, opining that it will allow him to show that he no longer thinks her relatives beneath him and to get to know Jane better.
Jane cannot think why Mr. Darcy continues to visit? He has given excuses about Bingley. But here comes the glitch in matters of the heart. Could it be that he is making addresses to her? She knows Elizabeth hates him, as her sister has let everyone in Hertfordshire know just what she thinks of the man and his behaviors.
This story does have its own angst and it is not just in waiting to see when and how Elizabeth will fall in love with Mr. Darcy; it is also a story of two sisters and how a man comes between them. This is a Jane you may not recognize. Her mother, during the whole of Jane’s lifetime, has told her how beautiful she is and impressed upon her how she is expected to marry well for the sake of saving the family from the hedgerows.
When Elizabeth arrives at the Gardiners she is witness to how Darcy has become friendlier with all of her family. He has brought the colonel with him and subsequently Aunt Gardiner, in witnessing how friendly the relationship between the colonel and Elizabeth seems to be, puts two and two together in her mind and comes up with the incorrect sum.
You will love the conversations between Darcy and Elizabeth as he, in learning to tease adds, “when we are married…” to several statements. And then there are the rare moments when they can find a way to even touch…a certain holding of hands may bring a few sighs. BUT we are not even halfway to our HEA: events occur which do allow Elizabeth’s ardor to grow, but they also have a profound effect on how Jane and Elizabeth interact. Can it be that they will now be strangers who only happen to live in the same household?
While in London, Elizabeth has also met, a Mrs. Carmichael, who is a friend of Lady Catherine’s, who is to tour on the continent. Lady Catherine recommends Elizabeth to her as a possible companion. Should Elizabeth consider this opportunity instead of pursuing her growing feelings for Darcy Can it be that Jane’s interest in Mr. Darcy will be reciprocated?
The events that follow become even more of a tangled mess. Propriety becomes an excuse when certain communications are not sent and the wrong news is allowed to be communicated. and remain. However, for a man who has said he will go anywhere, where there is a will there is a way, and that may mean more than one path attempted and failed.
This is a book which I highly recommend for your next read. If not that, put it on top of your TBR stack. I will be rereading this.
Oh, and there is that little dog, Alberto, owned by Lady Fitzwilliam who goes everywhere with her and has the habit of leaving certain “airs” in polite company…laughing.
I had the privilege recently of reading Caitlin Williams’ next book, When We Marry. It was, again, a book I could not put down and received a 5 star rating from me.
Initially, we are in Hunsford after “that proposal”; Elizabeth has received Mr. Darcy’s letter written in response to her vehement rejection. When she returns from her walk and after her reading and rereading of his letter she finds that Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam are waiting at the parsonage to say their farewells. Elizabeth seeks to find a way to give Mr. Darcy a hint of how she now feels and so she asks if a letter to Jane might be delivered. Then she asks for Darcy’s help in mending her pen (sounds like Caroline here) and when he goes over to the table at which she is writing, she has penned a short note apologizing to him.
It is a beginning to the change in her opinions and in his addresses to correct his disdain and his interference between Jane and Mr. Bingley. But now he has an excuse to visit Gracechurch Street and decides to take Bingley with him.
BUT, lo and behold, Bingley is not of a mind to now be persuaded to revisit his past feelings towards Jane. Darcy thinks of how unfortunate it is that now Bingley has decided to no longer yield to the opinions of other. What to do? He decides to visit the Gardiners and Jane all on his own, opining that it will allow him to show that he no longer thinks her relatives beneath him and to get to know Jane better.
Jane cannot think why Mr. Darcy continues to visit? He has given excuses about Bingley. But here comes the glitch in matters of the heart. Could it be that he is making addresses to her? She knows Elizabeth hates him, as her sister has let everyone in Hertfordshire know just what she thinks of the man and his behaviors.
This story does have its own angst and it is not just in waiting to see when and how Elizabeth will fall in love with Mr. Darcy; it is also a story of two sisters and how a man comes between them. This is a Jane you may not recognize. Her mother, during the whole of Jane’s lifetime, has told her how beautiful she is and impressed upon her how she is expected to marry well for the sake of saving the family from the hedgerows.
When Elizabeth arrives at the Gardiners she is witness to how Darcy has become friendlier with all of her family. He has brought the colonel with him and subsequently Aunt Gardiner, in witnessing how friendly the relationship between the colonel and Elizabeth seems to be, puts two and two together in her mind and comes up with the incorrect sum.
You will love the conversations between Darcy and Elizabeth as he, in learning to tease adds, “when we are married…” to several statements. And then there are the rare moments when they can find a way to even touch…a certain holding of hands may bring a few sighs. BUT we are not even halfway to our HEA: events occur which do allow Elizabeth’s ardor to grow, but they also have a profound effect on how Jane and Elizabeth interact. Can it be that they will now be strangers who only happen to live in the same household?
While in London, Elizabeth has also met, a Mrs. Carmichael, who is a friend of Lady Catherine’s, who is to tour on the continent. Lady Catherine recommends Elizabeth to her as a possible companion. Should Elizabeth consider this opportunity instead of pursuing her growing feelings for Darcy Can it be that Jane’s interest in Mr. Darcy will be reciprocated?
The events that follow become even more of a tangled mess. Propriety becomes an excuse when certain communications are not sent and the wrong news is allowed to be communicated. and remain. However, for a man who has said he will go anywhere, where there is a will there is a way, and that may mean more than one path attempted and failed.
This is a book which I highly recommend for your next read. If not that, put it on top of your TBR stack. I will be rereading this.
Oh, and there is that little dog, Alberto, owned by Lady Fitzwilliam who goes everywhere with her and has the habit of leaving certain “airs” in polite company…laughing.
May 18, 2017
What If Elizabeth and Darcy Did Not Coincidentally Meet in Derbyshire?
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
In her debut release, Caitlin Williams creates a Pride and Prejudice variation where Elizabeth and Darcy do not encounter each other again until four years after Darcy’s disastrous proposal in Hunsford Parsonage. Instead of touring the Peak District and visiting Lambton, Elizabeth and the Gardiners go to the Lake District as originally planned. And soon after her return from that trip, Elizabeth accepts an invitation to visit/semi-permanently live with Mr. Bennet’s sister, a Mrs. Mountford. Mrs. Mountford is a wealthy widow of good social standing who retains the ownership of her husband’s estate as they have no children or heirs. Mrs. Mountford becomes very fond of Elizabeth and the two travel to Bath together for an extended holiday.
Meanwhile, since Darcy doesn’t encounter Elizabeth at Pemberley, he never prompts Mr. Bingley to go back to Netherfield and never learns about Lydia’s attempted elopement. Instead, he eventually gives into his aunt’s pleadings and marries his cousin, Anne de Bourgh. But their married life together isn’t long as Darcy is a widower of one year at the start of this story.
What happens when Darcy and Elizabeth unexpectedly meet in Bath? Does Darcy still resent Elizabeth for her rejection of him? Does Elizabeth still think him proud and ill-mannered? Is there any attraction or admiration between them still? And what happens when there is another suitor who is intently pursuing Elizabeth?
A few months ago I read Caitlin Williams’s second novel, The Coming of Age of Elizabeth Bennet and the story completely consumed me! It was no surprise that I found her first book, Ardently, to be just as mesmerizing! I adored the unique premise of this story! Both Darcy and Elizabeth have changed a good deal in four years. Their situations are different and they have grown in wisdom and maturity. Ms. Williams has a wonderful talent for creating plausible yet wonderfully inventive variations and I loved the combination of Darcy marrying Anne, Elizabeth having a wealthy relation, and both characters not seeing each other for an extended period of time! These twists and Ms. Williams’s compelling and emotional prose had me so engaged, I could not stop myself from almost reading the whole book in one sitting!
My favorite part of this tale is Ms. Williams’s portrayal of Mr. Darcy. I loved her portrayal of Elizabeth and all the other Pride and Prejudice characters, but her Darcy was my favorite. I love it when Darcy needs to fight for Elizabeth, and I love it when he tries so hard to forget her and move on, yet fails. Darcy is everything that is honorable and adorable in this story. I loved seeing Elizabeth seek him out and learn to appreciate his good qualities. He was a quiet and ardent suitor, not one to put himself forward and pursue Elizabeth aggressively and possessively (like Mr. Yorke!). I laughed at the bit where he questioned Colonel Fitzwilliam about military tactics! So cute!
Other aspects of the story I enjoyed were the intriguing new characters – Mrs. Mountford and Mr. Yorke, the subtle nods to Jane Austen’s Persuasion, the lovely trip to Bath, and seeing an alternative outcome for some of the Bennet sisters. The only aspect of the story I ended up not being too fond of was Caroline Bingley’s story-line. In the end it just didn’t feel plausible to me and things changed a little too abruptly for my taste.
Regardless of that one small quibble, I found Ardently to be a beautifully-written Pride and Prejudice variation full of yearning, tender devotion, and second chances. Definitely not one to miss, my friends! Ms. Williams’s writing has a magnetic pull and I adore her creative style and introspective tone.
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
In her debut release, Caitlin Williams creates a Pride and Prejudice variation where Elizabeth and Darcy do not encounter each other again until four years after Darcy’s disastrous proposal in Hunsford Parsonage. Instead of touring the Peak District and visiting Lambton, Elizabeth and the Gardiners go to the Lake District as originally planned. And soon after her return from that trip, Elizabeth accepts an invitation to visit/semi-permanently live with Mr. Bennet’s sister, a Mrs. Mountford. Mrs. Mountford is a wealthy widow of good social standing who retains the ownership of her husband’s estate as they have no children or heirs. Mrs. Mountford becomes very fond of Elizabeth and the two travel to Bath together for an extended holiday.
Meanwhile, since Darcy doesn’t encounter Elizabeth at Pemberley, he never prompts Mr. Bingley to go back to Netherfield and never learns about Lydia’s attempted elopement. Instead, he eventually gives into his aunt’s pleadings and marries his cousin, Anne de Bourgh. But their married life together isn’t long as Darcy is a widower of one year at the start of this story.
What happens when Darcy and Elizabeth unexpectedly meet in Bath? Does Darcy still resent Elizabeth for her rejection of him? Does Elizabeth still think him proud and ill-mannered? Is there any attraction or admiration between them still? And what happens when there is another suitor who is intently pursuing Elizabeth?
A few months ago I read Caitlin Williams’s second novel, The Coming of Age of Elizabeth Bennet and the story completely consumed me! It was no surprise that I found her first book, Ardently, to be just as mesmerizing! I adored the unique premise of this story! Both Darcy and Elizabeth have changed a good deal in four years. Their situations are different and they have grown in wisdom and maturity. Ms. Williams has a wonderful talent for creating plausible yet wonderfully inventive variations and I loved the combination of Darcy marrying Anne, Elizabeth having a wealthy relation, and both characters not seeing each other for an extended period of time! These twists and Ms. Williams’s compelling and emotional prose had me so engaged, I could not stop myself from almost reading the whole book in one sitting!
My favorite part of this tale is Ms. Williams’s portrayal of Mr. Darcy. I loved her portrayal of Elizabeth and all the other Pride and Prejudice characters, but her Darcy was my favorite. I love it when Darcy needs to fight for Elizabeth, and I love it when he tries so hard to forget her and move on, yet fails. Darcy is everything that is honorable and adorable in this story. I loved seeing Elizabeth seek him out and learn to appreciate his good qualities. He was a quiet and ardent suitor, not one to put himself forward and pursue Elizabeth aggressively and possessively (like Mr. Yorke!). I laughed at the bit where he questioned Colonel Fitzwilliam about military tactics! So cute!
Other aspects of the story I enjoyed were the intriguing new characters – Mrs. Mountford and Mr. Yorke, the subtle nods to Jane Austen’s Persuasion, the lovely trip to Bath, and seeing an alternative outcome for some of the Bennet sisters. The only aspect of the story I ended up not being too fond of was Caroline Bingley’s story-line. In the end it just didn’t feel plausible to me and things changed a little too abruptly for my taste.
Regardless of that one small quibble, I found Ardently to be a beautifully-written Pride and Prejudice variation full of yearning, tender devotion, and second chances. Definitely not one to miss, my friends! Ms. Williams’s writing has a magnetic pull and I adore her creative style and introspective tone.
Austenesque Reviews
October 5, 2016
Loved this one, forgot to write a review! It's been a while, I think I should read it again. ❤️
February 25, 2023
I actually liked this one. It was so cute with some of the scenes from Persuasion and Northanger Abbey. The writing was better than the last JAFF I read. This will be a reread.
Reread and fast becoming a favorite.
Reread and fast becoming a favorite.
December 31, 2015
This book made me smile the whole time!!! Great P&P variation!!
Please check out Caitlin William's brand new holiday-inspired short story based on "Ardently," titled "Even More Ardently," exclusively at Just Jane 1813, at justjane1813.com
So what if Lizzy had a wealthy aunt that she lived with and wound up in Bath with you know who? I don't want to give anything away, but this was a fun, sweet, and interesting story. My Goodreads friend, Sheila, recommended this book yesterday and I knew I couldn't go wrong when I saw her five star rating!! So many precious moments and ODC were so true to their original characters. I don't always love variations, but this one is a keeper!!!
Please check out Caitlin William's brand new holiday-inspired short story based on "Ardently," titled "Even More Ardently," exclusively at Just Jane 1813, at justjane1813.com
So what if Lizzy had a wealthy aunt that she lived with and wound up in Bath with you know who? I don't want to give anything away, but this was a fun, sweet, and interesting story. My Goodreads friend, Sheila, recommended this book yesterday and I knew I couldn't go wrong when I saw her five star rating!! So many precious moments and ODC were so true to their original characters. I don't always love variations, but this one is a keeper!!!
July 13, 2021
Re-read #?? (9/5/16)
Raising my rating from 4 stars to 5 stars, because this has become one of my favorite comfort reads. I honestly don't even know how many times I've read it, at this point.
*
Original reading (7/22/15)
I think my favorite thing about this variation was that Elizabeth had true power. As her aunt's companion and a particular acquaintance of a Viscountess, she's suddenly in a position to make choices that are not motivated by a lack of fortune. I love love LOVED that Caroline Bingley was totally jealous of her and wanted to use her for connections. That's better than any other recompense I've seen her get in a variation. The only point that really bugged me was how easy Elizabeth was with Mr. Yorke. It wasn't obnoxious or anything, but still.
Raising my rating from 4 stars to 5 stars, because this has become one of my favorite comfort reads. I honestly don't even know how many times I've read it, at this point.
*
Original reading (7/22/15)
I think my favorite thing about this variation was that Elizabeth had true power. As her aunt's companion and a particular acquaintance of a Viscountess, she's suddenly in a position to make choices that are not motivated by a lack of fortune. I love love LOVED that Caroline Bingley was totally jealous of her and wanted to use her for connections. That's better than any other recompense I've seen her get in a variation. The only point that really bugged me was how easy Elizabeth was with Mr. Yorke. It wasn't obnoxious or anything, but still.
January 17, 2025
Doing some re-reading this week of some old favs.
February 26, 2017
I have had a bad run on the last few books that makes me want to stop reading altogether from disgust. I jump around with my books from this period to modern reads. The modern reads tend to get to me at times because women are written promiscuous and it's bad enough with cocky man whores which is why I find my way back to Pemberely. Now I was in hurry so I looked at the first review and wondered how have I missed this gem. Okay I settled in for romance. What is more romantic than this couple? What I found had smoke coming from my ears. The couple were not together in fact Darcy and her haven't seen each other in years. Darcy married his cousin Anne. I couldn't read all I skipped pages. I will tell you this there is something wrong with an author who spends more time describing Darcy's memories of his and Anne's body slapping together while he's screwing her versus D&E themselves. I'm sorry to crass but it's upsetting. I'm not joking. I don't care if I'm being disrepectable toward the author as any P&P fan we read for Darcy and Elizabeth so I am mad as hell that she chose to elaborate on that visual which wouldn't go away and skip D&E's wedding, Lizzy announcing her pregnancy or even their moments together. There is only room for one Mrs. Darcy and her first name is Elizabeth ney Bennet and if you can't understand why than you have no business creating a story involving them. Ardently pi$$ed there's a title for ya!
May 17, 2019
Ardently loved this book. I am a new fan of Caitlin Williams! Have added her to my list of author's to AUTOMATICALLY DOWNLOAD!
This book kept me turning pages (on kindle;)) from the first straight through til early morning. The tension built between Elizabeth (who is now in much better circumstances) and Darcy (who has more than a little regret) is delicious!
This book kept me turning pages (on kindle;)) from the first straight through til early morning. The tension built between Elizabeth (who is now in much better circumstances) and Darcy (who has more than a little regret) is delicious!
April 26, 2020
1st reading 12/21-12/22/2015
2nd reading 04/25-4/26/2020
Enjoyed this book immensely. Love this Darcy. He is gallant, heroic, funny, charming, and of course swoon worthy.
The fate of Caroline Bingley and her husband is well deserved.
I absolutely love Elizabeth’s aunt.
I think there are some slight changes from the original addition but can’t recall exactly.
Highly recommended for P&P / Jane Austen fans.
2nd reading 04/25-4/26/2020
Enjoyed this book immensely. Love this Darcy. He is gallant, heroic, funny, charming, and of course swoon worthy.
The fate of Caroline Bingley and her husband is well deserved.
I absolutely love Elizabeth’s aunt.
I think there are some slight changes from the original addition but can’t recall exactly.
Highly recommended for P&P / Jane Austen fans.
April 8, 2021
On a second reading I find this book is still well written, well paced and utterly delightful. It takes place in Bath, 4 years after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford, Darcy and Elizabeth finally meet again.
June 19, 2016
Can love rekindle years after the misunderstandings and missed opportunities of their lives?
In this P&P variation our author has added a scoop of Persuasion, a dollop of Northanger Abbey and smidgens of other Austen books. What a delectable confection.
I was amazed at the creativity of our author; however, that is no excuse for the atrocious editing problems. I mean really bad editing that could have been caught been [see what I mean], if someone had simply read the treatment again before publication.
There are excellent reviews that will outline the story. I’ll just give my opinion.
I love it when an author can surprise me. It was such a delight to suddenly find dialogue from another book. Since a good section of this story took place in Bath, we have several references from Persuasion: the rain and waiting at Mollands with the umbrellas, and the movie nods…that running scene through Bath and the couple slipping away in the night. From Northanger Abbey there were several nods…the gig racing through Bath and the scheming brother and his silly sisters. It was fun running up on these surprises. I’ll give the author credit for pulling that together.
There were so many surprises with our favorite characters and who they finally married. I won’t spoil anything. If you can get through the editing problems, it is worth the read. I enjoyed the HEA and the epilogue was cute. I also liked that this author gave Elizabeth the connections that made her acceptable in society. So much so that Caroline Bingley approached her in order to be introduced to a Viscountess.
NOTE regarding a cut: Elizabeth was terrified that she would receive a cut from Darcy while in public. Some time ago I researched the social cut, direct and otherwise, and found a site at The Regency Redingote. Kathryn Kane replied to my question and said a gentleman would never cut a lady, ever. Let’s just say…there is no question that Mr. Darcy is a gentleman. My original question had been in reference to the Meryton Assembly. Ms. Kane indicated that what Mr. Darcy did was a snub.
The purists can argue the propriety, etiquette, and comportment problems. I overlooked them so I could enjoy the story.
In this P&P variation our author has added a scoop of Persuasion, a dollop of Northanger Abbey and smidgens of other Austen books. What a delectable confection.
I was amazed at the creativity of our author; however, that is no excuse for the atrocious editing problems. I mean really bad editing that could have been caught been [see what I mean], if someone had simply read the treatment again before publication.
There are excellent reviews that will outline the story. I’ll just give my opinion.
I love it when an author can surprise me. It was such a delight to suddenly find dialogue from another book. Since a good section of this story took place in Bath, we have several references from Persuasion: the rain and waiting at Mollands with the umbrellas, and the movie nods…that running scene through Bath and the couple slipping away in the night. From Northanger Abbey there were several nods…the gig racing through Bath and the scheming brother and his silly sisters. It was fun running up on these surprises. I’ll give the author credit for pulling that together.
There were so many surprises with our favorite characters and who they finally married. I won’t spoil anything. If you can get through the editing problems, it is worth the read. I enjoyed the HEA and the epilogue was cute. I also liked that this author gave Elizabeth the connections that made her acceptable in society. So much so that Caroline Bingley approached her in order to be introduced to a Viscountess.
NOTE regarding a cut: Elizabeth was terrified that she would receive a cut from Darcy while in public. Some time ago I researched the social cut, direct and otherwise, and found a site at The Regency Redingote. Kathryn Kane replied to my question and said a gentleman would never cut a lady, ever. Let’s just say…there is no question that Mr. Darcy is a gentleman. My original question had been in reference to the Meryton Assembly. Ms. Kane indicated that what Mr. Darcy did was a snub.
The purists can argue the propriety, etiquette, and comportment problems. I overlooked them so I could enjoy the story.
June 24, 2017
I absolutely loved this one!! The characters were lovely and it was a wonderful ending. One of the best ones I've read to date. I really can't believe I didn't know about JAFF until this year.
April 24, 2020
Jane Austen fan fiction is the only fan fiction I can tolerate, but it's a mixed bag. None of the stories I've read come close to accurately imitating Austen's wit, style, and social commentary. Not that I hold that against the writers of such stories. Austen is a unique talent and a tough act to follow. All the more reason I wish fewer writers would attempt it. In my somewhat prosy opinion, any Regency romance should conform to the mores and customs of the period, else why bother? If a writer wants to write lusty, rowdy heroines who have sensuous encounters in carriages and on public streets, they should just set their stories in a time period where that would be at least somewhat likely to occur. I'm not actually referring to this particular novel here, although there are a few scenes which made me grit my teeth with their improbability.
What bothers me even more is when these writers muck about with the characterizations already established by Austen. If you're going to rip off another author's work, at least have the dubious integrity to not change the core personalities of the characters. What makes Austen's work so beloved, so outstanding, isn't just the writing itself, but her deep insight into strengths and frailties of her characters. Changing the basic personality of her characters is beyond the pale. This book commits that sin.
To give Caitlin Williams credit, the majority of the book is written in a style compatible with Austen and her time period. That she does a lot of it by liberally sprinkling lines from the original is disappointing, but if you're going to steal characters, why stop there? Steal the actual words as well. No use going half-measures on plagiarism, right?
I get it. "Pride and Prejudice" is such a wonderful story that no one wants it to end. But there are other ways to carry on the tradition without ripping off someone else's work. The whole Regency romance genre stems from Austen fans. If you want more stories like Austen's, with strong star-crossed lovers, conforming to the mores and customs of that historical period, try reading Georgette Heyer's Regency novels. They're wonderful stories, well written, peopled with strong characters, which stay true to the period, and best of all, they're ORIGINAL! Or at least as original as genre romances ever get. Or, even better, write a modern version of Austen's work. The movie "Clueless" is an excellent modern take on Austen's "Emma". There are other equally fine modern adaptations of her work, both in film and book form. And those are homages, not plagiarism.
::: sigh :::
Okay, enough of my rant. On with the actual review. There will be spoilers, fair warning, but honestly, the entire plot is a rehash of the original P&P so you can't really be that surprised.
"Ardently" is P&P without the originality or scintillating character development. The secondary characters, particularly Jane Bennet and Caroline Bingley, have changed so much as to be unrecognizable. First, Jane is hardly present in the story at all, not even through the letters which Elizabeth and Jane shared throughout their separations in P&P, a lapse which severely undermines the realism of the story. When Jane finally does arrive on the scene, Elizabeth greets her by abandoning her dance partner on the dance floor and running across a crowded party to boisterously hug her sister, an act so uncharacteristic of the refined and socially graceful Elizabeth of Austen's world as to render her a hoyden comparable to the infuriating portrayal of Elizabeth by Keira Knightley in the 2005 movie, in which all the characters are fundamentally changed for the worse. Soon after, Jane gossips about Elizabeth with their aunt, divulging a confidence about Darcy's previous proposal, while surreptitiously peering around to make sure Elizabeth can't hear her betrayal. Jane, as created by Austen, would never have betrayed her dearest sister in such an underhanded manner. And she's not the only one. Elizabeth scatters stories of Jane around to her acquaintences also and actually laughs at Bingley's discomfiture when he sees Jane for the first time since their ill-fated romance years before.
Let me backtrack a bit and say that the whole story premise is based on P&P ending just after Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth, and the trip to Pemberley never taking place, so Bingley and Jane never got together and they both married other people. Which doesn't account for Williams having Lydia run off with Denny instead of Wyckham, a story line completely separate from Elizabeth's and Darcy's divergence. Which, in turn, sets the stage for the other egregious character switch, Caroline Bingley being so lost to social consciousness that she runs off with a fortune hunter previously rejected by Elizabeth. Caroline Bingley made an excellent antogonist in P&P precisely because her nasty personality was so believably driven by her own pride and insecurity in her social position. The Bingley's were only one generation removed from "trade", which accounts for the excessive snobbery of Caroline. Austen's character would never have defied social convention by eloping to Scotland, a trip which would entail several illicit nights spent in the company of her intended. And once she returned a married woman, her spitefulness, which was almost well-rendered prior to this episode, descends into simpering girlishness and social gaffes unworthy of the rival to Elizabeth created so precisely by Austen. And, as mentioned, the whole rip-off of the Wyckham/Lydia elopement lacks the drama and consequence so vibrantly portrayed in P&P. There is little basis presented for Darcy's rush to follow the lovers, and no sense of immediancy, since both are of age and the match is eligible. No motive is adequately given for why they suddenly felt the need to dash off to the border, depriving Caroline of the lavish society wedding she would undoubtedly have demanded as her due had she been the same character created in P&P.
You can dismiss my take on the matter as just peevishness from a disgruntled reader disappointed by yet another sad attempt to copy P&P, but it's more than that. These are severe plot flaws that any decent writer would have fixed.
There is one part of the story which I thought was extremely well done, albeit still not really in character for Elizabeth. The letter she writes to her father at the end does sound like something Austen's Elizabeth would have done, though perhaps more thoroughly. But that brings up another hoydenish act by Elizabeth which was completely out of character; her dash from the drawing room filled with company into the street to chase after Darcy. That pretty much ruined what still had potential to be an acceptable happily-ever-after scene.
Oh, and there's one more gaffe in the book which literally had me screaming in frustration. Williams has Darcy referring to himself as a cuckold. Argh!!! Nobody has the right to call themselves a writer if they make such a glaring and preventable mistake. Even if the author doesn't know the definition of the word, Darcy certainly would. Someone please give Williams a dictionary and explain to her how to use it.
There is more, so much more, I could criticize in the book but I'll spare you. I think you get the idea. "Ardently" is one of the better Austen fan-fiction books I've read. Which isn't the same as saying it's a good book. For those who, like me, eat up Austen fan-fiction, I'd recommend it. You'll probably enjoy it far more than I did. Caitlin Williams is no Jane Austen but she probably is a fairly good romance writer. Hopefully she'll write something original one day so we can find out if she lives up to her potential.
What bothers me even more is when these writers muck about with the characterizations already established by Austen. If you're going to rip off another author's work, at least have the dubious integrity to not change the core personalities of the characters. What makes Austen's work so beloved, so outstanding, isn't just the writing itself, but her deep insight into strengths and frailties of her characters. Changing the basic personality of her characters is beyond the pale. This book commits that sin.
To give Caitlin Williams credit, the majority of the book is written in a style compatible with Austen and her time period. That she does a lot of it by liberally sprinkling lines from the original is disappointing, but if you're going to steal characters, why stop there? Steal the actual words as well. No use going half-measures on plagiarism, right?
I get it. "Pride and Prejudice" is such a wonderful story that no one wants it to end. But there are other ways to carry on the tradition without ripping off someone else's work. The whole Regency romance genre stems from Austen fans. If you want more stories like Austen's, with strong star-crossed lovers, conforming to the mores and customs of that historical period, try reading Georgette Heyer's Regency novels. They're wonderful stories, well written, peopled with strong characters, which stay true to the period, and best of all, they're ORIGINAL! Or at least as original as genre romances ever get. Or, even better, write a modern version of Austen's work. The movie "Clueless" is an excellent modern take on Austen's "Emma". There are other equally fine modern adaptations of her work, both in film and book form. And those are homages, not plagiarism.
::: sigh :::
Okay, enough of my rant. On with the actual review. There will be spoilers, fair warning, but honestly, the entire plot is a rehash of the original P&P so you can't really be that surprised.
"Ardently" is P&P without the originality or scintillating character development. The secondary characters, particularly Jane Bennet and Caroline Bingley, have changed so much as to be unrecognizable. First, Jane is hardly present in the story at all, not even through the letters which Elizabeth and Jane shared throughout their separations in P&P, a lapse which severely undermines the realism of the story. When Jane finally does arrive on the scene, Elizabeth greets her by abandoning her dance partner on the dance floor and running across a crowded party to boisterously hug her sister, an act so uncharacteristic of the refined and socially graceful Elizabeth of Austen's world as to render her a hoyden comparable to the infuriating portrayal of Elizabeth by Keira Knightley in the 2005 movie, in which all the characters are fundamentally changed for the worse. Soon after, Jane gossips about Elizabeth with their aunt, divulging a confidence about Darcy's previous proposal, while surreptitiously peering around to make sure Elizabeth can't hear her betrayal. Jane, as created by Austen, would never have betrayed her dearest sister in such an underhanded manner. And she's not the only one. Elizabeth scatters stories of Jane around to her acquaintences also and actually laughs at Bingley's discomfiture when he sees Jane for the first time since their ill-fated romance years before.
Let me backtrack a bit and say that the whole story premise is based on P&P ending just after Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth, and the trip to Pemberley never taking place, so Bingley and Jane never got together and they both married other people. Which doesn't account for Williams having Lydia run off with Denny instead of Wyckham, a story line completely separate from Elizabeth's and Darcy's divergence. Which, in turn, sets the stage for the other egregious character switch, Caroline Bingley being so lost to social consciousness that she runs off with a fortune hunter previously rejected by Elizabeth. Caroline Bingley made an excellent antogonist in P&P precisely because her nasty personality was so believably driven by her own pride and insecurity in her social position. The Bingley's were only one generation removed from "trade", which accounts for the excessive snobbery of Caroline. Austen's character would never have defied social convention by eloping to Scotland, a trip which would entail several illicit nights spent in the company of her intended. And once she returned a married woman, her spitefulness, which was almost well-rendered prior to this episode, descends into simpering girlishness and social gaffes unworthy of the rival to Elizabeth created so precisely by Austen. And, as mentioned, the whole rip-off of the Wyckham/Lydia elopement lacks the drama and consequence so vibrantly portrayed in P&P. There is little basis presented for Darcy's rush to follow the lovers, and no sense of immediancy, since both are of age and the match is eligible. No motive is adequately given for why they suddenly felt the need to dash off to the border, depriving Caroline of the lavish society wedding she would undoubtedly have demanded as her due had she been the same character created in P&P.
You can dismiss my take on the matter as just peevishness from a disgruntled reader disappointed by yet another sad attempt to copy P&P, but it's more than that. These are severe plot flaws that any decent writer would have fixed.
There is one part of the story which I thought was extremely well done, albeit still not really in character for Elizabeth. The letter she writes to her father at the end does sound like something Austen's Elizabeth would have done, though perhaps more thoroughly. But that brings up another hoydenish act by Elizabeth which was completely out of character; her dash from the drawing room filled with company into the street to chase after Darcy. That pretty much ruined what still had potential to be an acceptable happily-ever-after scene.
Oh, and there's one more gaffe in the book which literally had me screaming in frustration. Williams has Darcy referring to himself as a cuckold. Argh!!! Nobody has the right to call themselves a writer if they make such a glaring and preventable mistake. Even if the author doesn't know the definition of the word, Darcy certainly would. Someone please give Williams a dictionary and explain to her how to use it.
There is more, so much more, I could criticize in the book but I'll spare you. I think you get the idea. "Ardently" is one of the better Austen fan-fiction books I've read. Which isn't the same as saying it's a good book. For those who, like me, eat up Austen fan-fiction, I'd recommend it. You'll probably enjoy it far more than I did. Caitlin Williams is no Jane Austen but she probably is a fairly good romance writer. Hopefully she'll write something original one day so we can find out if she lives up to her potential.
May 9, 2019
I've decided to dip into "fan fiction". I've always been intrigued by the genre, but never took the plunge. I've struggled with the concept of one author "borrowing" another author's beloved characters. And, I often thought it would be hard to beat perfection. For me, Pride and Prejudice is in the top 5 best stories ever told, both on the silver screen (Colin Firth...swoon) and in print.
Therefore, it would make sense that if I were to explore the genre this would be the best place to start. I'm finding that my initial impressions are correct. It's hard to beat the original, but in the hands of an extremely talented writer, it can be done.
This particular story did grab and keep my attention, but I would categorize it as just okay. (I don't quite understand why all the 4 and 5 star reviews)
- The book is in need of some editing to correct the misspelled words and grammatical errors. There aren't a ton, but enough to annoy a reader. (Or, at least this reader)
- There wasn't much of a plot. If you just want to hang out some more with Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth, then this is the book for you. However, the plot never progresses further than that. They still stare longingly at each other from across the room. They still have stilted and awkward conversations. They still just bumble around. There are a few secondary characters that add some texture and dimension to the story, but they aren't fully flushed out.
I'm onto reading the next one. I know there has to be a gem out there. If you've read one that you fully enjoyed, please feel free to recommend!
Therefore, it would make sense that if I were to explore the genre this would be the best place to start. I'm finding that my initial impressions are correct. It's hard to beat the original, but in the hands of an extremely talented writer, it can be done.
This particular story did grab and keep my attention, but I would categorize it as just okay. (I don't quite understand why all the 4 and 5 star reviews)
- The book is in need of some editing to correct the misspelled words and grammatical errors. There aren't a ton, but enough to annoy a reader. (Or, at least this reader)
- There wasn't much of a plot. If you just want to hang out some more with Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth, then this is the book for you. However, the plot never progresses further than that. They still stare longingly at each other from across the room. They still have stilted and awkward conversations. They still just bumble around. There are a few secondary characters that add some texture and dimension to the story, but they aren't fully flushed out.
I'm onto reading the next one. I know there has to be a gem out there. If you've read one that you fully enjoyed, please feel free to recommend!
September 3, 2022
Loved it
Very good book like those with epilogue. Don't very much like it when Darcy marries someone else. But this one was good.
Very good book like those with epilogue. Don't very much like it when Darcy marries someone else. But this one was good.
May 2, 2023
Lovely, palpable angst.
Darcy and Elizabeth meet again five years after the horrible proposal at Hunsford. Darcy is a widower. Elizabeth is living with a paternal aunt and visiting Bath when they meet. Darcy, at first perturbed believing he had finally been able to forget her, is once again at the mercy of his desire for Elizabeth and again just as awkward and tongue tied. And again in despair of this even more beautiful creature most likely still hating him. Elizabeth, wanting desperately to apologize to Darcy for the angry response to his proposal those years ago makes some awkward responses herself not knowing about the circumstances of his past few years, also thinking he hates her.
The author keeps our hero and heroine apart yet in proximity with each other in such a heart wrenching design. My heart was in my throat in scene after scene. We only have one true antagonist and that is circumstance. Elizabeth is being pursued by another suitor. Shades of Northanger Abbey and Persuasion. And we have only one character from canon who constantly gives Elizabeth grief, Caroline Bingley, with her wicked mouth. Gads. Thank you Author, for the wonderful Aunt Mountford. I needed an aunt like her growing up. She sees everything and knows everybody. She is intelligent and refined, and loves her niece dearly. Georgiana has a lovely supporting role here.
When Darcy and Elizabeth finally get together, there are still some obstacles to get through but the romance is gorgeous, and funny, and passionate. The entire story is written beautifully. I’d read this years ago and forgotten so much it was really like reading a new work. I was not reviewing books often then, I’m glad to take the opportunity now and hope I’ve done it justice.
Highly recommended for JAFF readers.
Darcy and Elizabeth meet again five years after the horrible proposal at Hunsford. Darcy is a widower. Elizabeth is living with a paternal aunt and visiting Bath when they meet. Darcy, at first perturbed believing he had finally been able to forget her, is once again at the mercy of his desire for Elizabeth and again just as awkward and tongue tied. And again in despair of this even more beautiful creature most likely still hating him. Elizabeth, wanting desperately to apologize to Darcy for the angry response to his proposal those years ago makes some awkward responses herself not knowing about the circumstances of his past few years, also thinking he hates her.
The author keeps our hero and heroine apart yet in proximity with each other in such a heart wrenching design. My heart was in my throat in scene after scene. We only have one true antagonist and that is circumstance. Elizabeth is being pursued by another suitor. Shades of Northanger Abbey and Persuasion. And we have only one character from canon who constantly gives Elizabeth grief, Caroline Bingley, with her wicked mouth. Gads. Thank you Author, for the wonderful Aunt Mountford. I needed an aunt like her growing up. She sees everything and knows everybody. She is intelligent and refined, and loves her niece dearly. Georgiana has a lovely supporting role here.
When Darcy and Elizabeth finally get together, there are still some obstacles to get through but the romance is gorgeous, and funny, and passionate. The entire story is written beautifully. I’d read this years ago and forgotten so much it was really like reading a new work. I was not reviewing books often then, I’m glad to take the opportunity now and hope I’ve done it justice.
Highly recommended for JAFF readers.
December 4, 2017
Lovely, Lovely Book
This was pure delight. I loved the different settings, the plot variation, and the new characters were fun. It was interesting to see Miss Bingley trying to be friends with Elizabeth Bennet. Of course, the romance between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy made me sigh with happiness, making me appreciate a book that evokes such a amazing feeling.
This was pure delight. I loved the different settings, the plot variation, and the new characters were fun. It was interesting to see Miss Bingley trying to be friends with Elizabeth Bennet. Of course, the romance between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy made me sigh with happiness, making me appreciate a book that evokes such a amazing feeling.
November 26, 2017
An excellent variation!
I loved the plot and the way the personalities involved developed while they were our of touch, so that when they met again this great story resulted. I really liked Mr. Bennet's sister.
I loved the plot and the way the personalities involved developed while they were our of touch, so that when they met again this great story resulted. I really liked Mr. Bennet's sister.
November 8, 2019
I was very pleasantly surprised by this book. The characters are so much fun to read. The premise of Darcy and Elizabeth not meeting up after his first proposal is a great one. The way they come together still is beautiful. I must say however there is a part where I completely disagree with how Caroline Bingley acts. She (in my opinion) would never do what she did. It felt a bit forced and like the author was trying to hard to add experiences from Jane Austin’s writings. That is why it is a 4 star rating for me. Other than that I really enjoyed this read!
March 4, 2023
This author writes such carefully constructed stories putting our favourite characters in different circumstances. In this story Darcy and Elizabeth are older and wiser and have been shaped by their experiences but in essentials they are unchanged.
This story has delightful nods in the direction of Austen’s other novels, particularly Persuasion, as an extra treat for the reader.
A really good read
This story has delightful nods in the direction of Austen’s other novels, particularly Persuasion, as an extra treat for the reader.
A really good read
May 23, 2019
I love this P&P/Persuasion/Sense & Sensibility story, and drag it out like a warm bowl of comfort food when my soul needs soothing. Elizabeth has moments of Mariananne and Elinor Dashwood and Anne Eliot. Darcy is a broken-hearted Col. Brandon and captain Wentworth. Really well written, with a few moments of genuine belly laughs.
July 4, 2015
Great P&P variation! Very original and true to the characters. The premise is intriguing and poignant and the plot keeps you guessing. I enjoyed every minute.
July 27, 2020
Delightful!
Well written, wonderful storyline, good dialogue and great humor. Loved it, and read it all in one sitting, as I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend.
Well written, wonderful storyline, good dialogue and great humor. Loved it, and read it all in one sitting, as I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend.
October 20, 2017
Wonderful!
This is just as beautiful and perfect as I would have expected! Caitlin Williams is one of my absolute favorite writers and her first novel was one of the first actual published P&P variations I ever read. It also was brilliant and continues to hold a very special place in my heart. In fact, I may have to reread it right away, because I enjoy her writing so much!
In absolute unfairness, I never spoil anything in my favorite books, and reserve lengthy explanations for criticism or defense. As there is nothing to criticize or defend, you may simply read the summary above, and I hope, trust my judgment on the quality and worthiness of this story.
This is just as beautiful and perfect as I would have expected! Caitlin Williams is one of my absolute favorite writers and her first novel was one of the first actual published P&P variations I ever read. It also was brilliant and continues to hold a very special place in my heart. In fact, I may have to reread it right away, because I enjoy her writing so much!
In absolute unfairness, I never spoil anything in my favorite books, and reserve lengthy explanations for criticism or defense. As there is nothing to criticize or defend, you may simply read the summary above, and I hope, trust my judgment on the quality and worthiness of this story.
July 5, 2018
Yes, I am the last person in JAFF-land to have not read Ardently, and I regret waiting this long since it was as wonderful as everyone says. I had heard it was angsty, but I am an angst weenie and this didn't feel like despairing levels of angst. It was actually quite lovely and measured.
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