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A Twist of Fate
During a bleak Christmas season, Elizabeth Bennet has a chance encounter in London with Mr. Darcy, a man she hasn’t seen since his disastrous proposal at Rosings two years ago. Will this ‘twist of fate’ change her future for the better or only bring her more heartache?
58 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2017
43 people are currently reading
81 people want to read
About the author
Brenda J. Webb
11 books104 followersWelcome to my author page; let me tell you a little about myself.
First, I have never followed soap operas, I hardly have time to watch television at all. Thus, if any of my characters match names of soap opera characters, I assure you it is a coincidence. I come up with the names all by myself. Now that that is addressed, I shall move on. "big smile"
I worked for years in the accounting world until I traded my career for life on a small farm. A voracious reader and romance movie aficionada, one day I happened to notice that one of my favorite Jane Austen books had been made into a movie. It was the 2005 production of Pride and Prejudice and I went to the theatre to see it instead of waiting, as usual, for the DVD or online video release. Nothing can compare to seeing this production on the big screen. It captured my imagination and made me want more of these beloved characters or others like them. I began buying all of Jane Austen's novels on Amazon.com and discovered the Jane Austen Fan Fiction genre.
I read everything I could find and then decided to write a story of my own, which was posted on a fan fiction site. A nice response from my readers convinced me to publish the story. I began a forum, DarcyandLizzy.Com, where I post my stories before they are published. It features many other writers as well.
First, I have never followed soap operas, I hardly have time to watch television at all. Thus, if any of my characters match names of soap opera characters, I assure you it is a coincidence. I come up with the names all by myself. Now that that is addressed, I shall move on. "big smile"
I worked for years in the accounting world until I traded my career for life on a small farm. A voracious reader and romance movie aficionada, one day I happened to notice that one of my favorite Jane Austen books had been made into a movie. It was the 2005 production of Pride and Prejudice and I went to the theatre to see it instead of waiting, as usual, for the DVD or online video release. Nothing can compare to seeing this production on the big screen. It captured my imagination and made me want more of these beloved characters or others like them. I began buying all of Jane Austen's novels on Amazon.com and discovered the Jane Austen Fan Fiction genre.
I read everything I could find and then decided to write a story of my own, which was posted on a fan fiction site. A nice response from my readers convinced me to publish the story. I began a forum, DarcyandLizzy.Com, where I post my stories before they are published. It features many other writers as well.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
January 31, 2017
Dear reader,
Imagine,if you will,what might befall the Bennet family if the Grim Reaper beckoned Mr Bennet to his side,thus casting his lady wife and dearest girls far from their beloved Longbourn,at the mercy of friends and relations.
In such reduced circumstances then do we encounter Jane,too sickly for gainful employment,and Lizzy,working nights as a lady's companion/nursemaid,her family's chief breadwinner.
Choosing to sell precious heirlooms,Lizzy espies a ghost from her past,one who still haunts her waking hours,the source of her deepest regrets.
Receiving a bountiful supply of presents for all her family members,who,she wonders is responsible for such generosity,and to whom should she tender her grateful appreciation for such beneficence?
Can the Christmas spirit truly wipe the past clean,erase past regrets and grant desperately needed and much sought after second chances?
I loved this very short yet compelling story and am a great admirer of Ms Webb.
I would dearly have loved to read more of this delightful snapshot into the lives of the Bennets,Darcys and Gardiners.
I would love to have been privy to their sacrifices,their deprivations and then seen the change in their circumstances that love,devotion,second chances and happiness can bring.
Alas this was not to be,but should Ms Webb further develop this story,I,for one would be delighted to read on!
Highly recommended for those seeking a short,feel good story centred on ODC.
Imagine,if you will,what might befall the Bennet family if the Grim Reaper beckoned Mr Bennet to his side,thus casting his lady wife and dearest girls far from their beloved Longbourn,at the mercy of friends and relations.
In such reduced circumstances then do we encounter Jane,too sickly for gainful employment,and Lizzy,working nights as a lady's companion/nursemaid,her family's chief breadwinner.
Choosing to sell precious heirlooms,Lizzy espies a ghost from her past,one who still haunts her waking hours,the source of her deepest regrets.
Receiving a bountiful supply of presents for all her family members,who,she wonders is responsible for such generosity,and to whom should she tender her grateful appreciation for such beneficence?
Can the Christmas spirit truly wipe the past clean,erase past regrets and grant desperately needed and much sought after second chances?
I loved this very short yet compelling story and am a great admirer of Ms Webb.
I would dearly have loved to read more of this delightful snapshot into the lives of the Bennets,Darcys and Gardiners.
I would love to have been privy to their sacrifices,their deprivations and then seen the change in their circumstances that love,devotion,second chances and happiness can bring.
Alas this was not to be,but should Ms Webb further develop this story,I,for one would be delighted to read on!
Highly recommended for those seeking a short,feel good story centred on ODC.
February 6, 2017
This very short story, set during the Christmas holidays two and a half years after Mr. Bennet has died and the family has been "thrown out in to the hedgerows", uses a chance glimpse of the two oldest Bennet sisters by Darcy and his cousin, Richard Fitzwilliam, to bring about some repairs to the lives of all concerned.
This took me less than an hour to read and being so short there is little I can say further that would not spoil the story for other readers. Brenda manages to pack a lot into a few pages but it is all sweet and satisfying.
This took me less than an hour to read and being so short there is little I can say further that would not spoil the story for other readers. Brenda manages to pack a lot into a few pages but it is all sweet and satisfying.
February 5, 2017
Short-short story, clean, quick and a HEA
If you have ever been to the race track, you know how fast the cars circle the speedway. It is impossible to even see the cars as they pass in front of you. That is how I felt when I read this story. It happened so quickly, scenes speeding by at the speed of light, that I have whip-lash trying to read the details.
Our story finds the Bennet family in diminished circumstances. We are post Hunsford and that fated proposal. After the death of Mr. Bennet, the removal of the family from Longbourn was immediate, as Mr. Collins assumed his inheritance. The Bennet ladies were forced to move to London and now live in a small cottage rented for them by Mr. Gardiner. This added expense has put a strain on his finances and his family suffers along with his sister and her family.
Elizabeth and Jane have tried to do what they could. Jane had become ill from the damp and dirty air of London and could no longer work. Elizabeth was in service and sits with a sick older woman. They've sold what valuables they have in order to buy necessities for their family. Lydia Their circumstances were now extreme.
Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam encounter Jane and Elizabeth as they exit the shop where Elizabeth had just sold her grandmother’s hair combs. Darcy was aghast at the appearance of ill health of the two women. He had his cousin investigate their circumstances and was horrified by the information our dear Colonel found.
The HEA was quick, and even though our characters are somewhat OOC [out of character], it was a good resolution. I suppose since the story was at warp-speed, then things would naturally move fairly quickly and the resolution would skip to an immediate conclusion.
Having said that… it left LOTS of questions, although some were simply stated as fact in a few paragraphs. This writing didn’t seem up to par with this author. This was a quick window of time that encompassed a few days during the Christmas Holidays.
If you have ever been to the race track, you know how fast the cars circle the speedway. It is impossible to even see the cars as they pass in front of you. That is how I felt when I read this story. It happened so quickly, scenes speeding by at the speed of light, that I have whip-lash trying to read the details.
Our story finds the Bennet family in diminished circumstances. We are post Hunsford and that fated proposal. After the death of Mr. Bennet, the removal of the family from Longbourn was immediate, as Mr. Collins assumed his inheritance. The Bennet ladies were forced to move to London and now live in a small cottage rented for them by Mr. Gardiner. This added expense has put a strain on his finances and his family suffers along with his sister and her family.
Elizabeth and Jane have tried to do what they could. Jane had become ill from the damp and dirty air of London and could no longer work. Elizabeth was in service and sits with a sick older woman. They've sold what valuables they have in order to buy necessities for their family. Lydia Their circumstances were now extreme.
Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam encounter Jane and Elizabeth as they exit the shop where Elizabeth had just sold her grandmother’s hair combs. Darcy was aghast at the appearance of ill health of the two women. He had his cousin investigate their circumstances and was horrified by the information our dear Colonel found.
The HEA was quick, and even though our characters are somewhat OOC [out of character], it was a good resolution. I suppose since the story was at warp-speed, then things would naturally move fairly quickly and the resolution would skip to an immediate conclusion.
Having said that… it left LOTS of questions, although some were simply stated as fact in a few paragraphs. This writing didn’t seem up to par with this author. This was a quick window of time that encompassed a few days during the Christmas Holidays.
February 5, 2017
A heartwarming holiday Pride & Prejudice short story variation was just the thing when I wanted something quick, but satisfying.
A Twist of Fate takes a different path just after the disastrous time at Hunsford in the original tale. The time from Hunsford until many events later occur off-scene and this story picks up with Elizabeth, her widowed mother, and her sisters living nearly in poverty save for the help of the Gardiners and what Elizabeth can earn as a paid companion.
The holiday season is looking particularly bleak for the Bennets as Jane is ill, Lydia's little girl needs a surgery the family can't afford, Christmas cheer of food and gifts will only come if a shopkeeper will give them cash for the last of Elizabeth's jewelry. This transaction is observed by none other than Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Darcy lost track of the Bennets after his proposal was refused and he gave Elizabeth a letter refuting her accusations. Now he sees evidence that what he thought was true- Elizabeth was married and cared for- must not have been. He sets out to do what he can for the woman he still loves even if she has rejected him.
As I indicated, this is a variation from the original. What if Mr. Bennet died? What if Lydia was never rescued from Wickham? Things are pretty dreary and dire for them. Weighty scenario indeed. It made an interesting contrast to the Christmas season of hope. It was a good set up and was developed well.
The narration was shared between Elizabeth and Darcy. I liked the insight it gave into what they were thinking- and what they thought each other was thinking (which was entertaining). They still had some issues to work out which was a good conflict in the present story.
My only niggle is that, due to the length, things were rushed once the main conflict was addressed. It was a complete story for all that and even background plot strings were tied up neatly. I enjoyed how it all turned out.
So, all in all, this was a delightful short, strong and engaging plot and characters, and a must for Austenesque lovers.
A Twist of Fate takes a different path just after the disastrous time at Hunsford in the original tale. The time from Hunsford until many events later occur off-scene and this story picks up with Elizabeth, her widowed mother, and her sisters living nearly in poverty save for the help of the Gardiners and what Elizabeth can earn as a paid companion.
The holiday season is looking particularly bleak for the Bennets as Jane is ill, Lydia's little girl needs a surgery the family can't afford, Christmas cheer of food and gifts will only come if a shopkeeper will give them cash for the last of Elizabeth's jewelry. This transaction is observed by none other than Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Darcy lost track of the Bennets after his proposal was refused and he gave Elizabeth a letter refuting her accusations. Now he sees evidence that what he thought was true- Elizabeth was married and cared for- must not have been. He sets out to do what he can for the woman he still loves even if she has rejected him.
As I indicated, this is a variation from the original. What if Mr. Bennet died? What if Lydia was never rescued from Wickham? Things are pretty dreary and dire for them. Weighty scenario indeed. It made an interesting contrast to the Christmas season of hope. It was a good set up and was developed well.
The narration was shared between Elizabeth and Darcy. I liked the insight it gave into what they were thinking- and what they thought each other was thinking (which was entertaining). They still had some issues to work out which was a good conflict in the present story.
My only niggle is that, due to the length, things were rushed once the main conflict was addressed. It was a complete story for all that and even background plot strings were tied up neatly. I enjoyed how it all turned out.
So, all in all, this was a delightful short, strong and engaging plot and characters, and a must for Austenesque lovers.
February 6, 2017
This is a SHORT fast paced Xmas what if. It is best described as a O Henry story the Gift of the Magi & A Christmas Carol.
In this P&P What if we learn that Mr. Bennet went to his reward in the sky shortly after Lizzy & Jane returned to Longbourn and the Bennet ladies were removed from their home and moved to a small cottage on Gracechurch street. Their status is very diminished and Lizzy is working as a companion. Her meager salary isn't enough to provide for her family's Christmas and she must sell a treasured possession in order to buy food and gifts. But a secret benefactor sends them gifts and a doctor ... who could it be? Lizzy sets out to find out and finds true love.
In this P&P What if we learn that Mr. Bennet went to his reward in the sky shortly after Lizzy & Jane returned to Longbourn and the Bennet ladies were removed from their home and moved to a small cottage on Gracechurch street. Their status is very diminished and Lizzy is working as a companion. Her meager salary isn't enough to provide for her family's Christmas and she must sell a treasured possession in order to buy food and gifts. But a secret benefactor sends them gifts and a doctor ... who could it be? Lizzy sets out to find out and finds true love.
January 20, 2017
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
If you don't mind a LOT of artistic license taken on actual Christmas traditions during Regency times, this is a delightful little story. To my knowledge, it was not common tradition in England for Christmas trees or wrapped presents for everyone until decades later.
Although short, it is perfectly composed and beautifully written, with believable characters and sweet romance.
If you don't mind a LOT of artistic license taken on actual Christmas traditions during Regency times, this is a delightful little story. To my knowledge, it was not common tradition in England for Christmas trees or wrapped presents for everyone until decades later.
Although short, it is perfectly composed and beautifully written, with believable characters and sweet romance.
October 22, 2017
My Rating: 3.5 stars
Life has delivered a cruel blow to the Bennets. Mr. Bennet has passed and Mr. Collins has thrown Mrs. Bennet and her daughters in the hedgerows.
Two years later, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Darcy catch a glimpse of Elizabeth and Jane Bennet. Come see how a 'twist of fate' brings joy to the Bennet household during the Christmas season.
I liked this little story but just wished the ending wasn't so rushed...I wanted more.
Read
December 13, 2017This short story is depressing at the beginning, as Mr. Bennet has died, his wife and daughters must depend on the charity of the Gardiners and Elizabeth's wages, and Lydia's fate was as bad as you can imagine without the interference of Mr. Darcy. But it ended up being a heartwarming story as a chance encounter with Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam brings unresolved feelings to the surface and unexpected Christmas spirit to the Bennet household.
May 19, 2019
Sad Christmas story, thankfully with a HEA
Well written short story. Of course that’s probably redundant since the author always shines in that department.
While reading the tale, I couldn’t help but think how short sighted everyone in the Bennet family was, except Mrs. Bennet, about their future. Mr. Bennet isn’t the kindly old curmudgeon he is depicted as in P&P books and movies. The families circumstances in this story can all be layed at his indolent ways.
And just as Lizzie is the son he never had, she’s been taught by him to be selfish with her and their future. Jane Austen was such a good author, that these truths are never mentioned in the book. They are shown for everyone to see by Lizzie’s and mr. Bennet’s actions throughout the entirety of P&P.
Good story. I recommend it.
Well written short story. Of course that’s probably redundant since the author always shines in that department.
While reading the tale, I couldn’t help but think how short sighted everyone in the Bennet family was, except Mrs. Bennet, about their future. Mr. Bennet isn’t the kindly old curmudgeon he is depicted as in P&P books and movies. The families circumstances in this story can all be layed at his indolent ways.
And just as Lizzie is the son he never had, she’s been taught by him to be selfish with her and their future. Jane Austen was such a good author, that these truths are never mentioned in the book. They are shown for everyone to see by Lizzie’s and mr. Bennet’s actions throughout the entirety of P&P.
Good story. I recommend it.
February 5, 2017
Sweet Christmas tale. The Bennets have fallen on hard times. A twist of fate brings this to Darcy's attention. Despite the belief Elizabeth still despises him, he tries to anonymously assist her family. As per usual, ODC find a HEA. Brenda Webb has the ability to bring the emotions of her characters to life for her readers and even her short tales are full and rich and complete. She is definitely a gifted author. Recommended.
April 22, 2017
A very sweet Christmas story. At the beginning it has almost a Dicken's feel to it, but then it becomes less dreary. Although it's a short little novella, it moved me where I actually became teary-eyed! I wish it was a bit longer (it was tied up with D&E a bit too quickly in my opinion), but other than that it was great!
February 6, 2017
I loved this short story. It was so charming. Of course, I wanted it to last forever but I feel that way about any book I like. It was super sweet.
October 18, 2024
Status: Read January 21, 2017
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
My Library Notes:
A Twist of Fate
by Brenda J. Webb
Kindle Edition, First Edition, 40 pages
Published January 15, 2017 by Darcy and Lizzy Publications
ASIN: B01MZAFH9L
During a bleak Christmas season, Elizabeth Bennet has a chance encounter in London with Mr. Darcy, a man she hasn’t seen since his disastrous proposal at Rosings two years ago. Will this ‘twist of fate’ change her future for the better or only bring her more heartache?
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
My Library Notes:
A Twist of Fate
by Brenda J. Webb
Kindle Edition, First Edition, 40 pages
Published January 15, 2017 by Darcy and Lizzy Publications
ASIN: B01MZAFH9L
During a bleak Christmas season, Elizabeth Bennet has a chance encounter in London with Mr. Darcy, a man she hasn’t seen since his disastrous proposal at Rosings two years ago. Will this ‘twist of fate’ change her future for the better or only bring her more heartache?
October 20, 2021
This was a short and pleasant read. Though some have identified it as being a mashup of P&P and "Gift of the Magi," I disagree. There was no parallel sacrifice in this book, just one item that paid homage to O. Henry's fabulous holiday short story.
My review will not contain a summary or spoilers, just a technical review since this aspect can make or break reading enjoyment.
The plot, flow, and characterization were all seamless. As is a good writing choice for a short story, there was minimal introduction of new characters and they were well applied.
I only found one typo, one non-Regency word (aback) and one non-British expression (the holidays). Other authors should learn from Brenda J. Webb's attention to detail. It's not often that I see a book this clean. Even most JAFF and Regency romance novellas have a half a dozen non-Regency words in them. Not this one.
The language use was good, with no difficult words to look up, yet the tone was definitely Regency.
Some have quibbled about the concept of Christmas gift giving being non-Regency. I forgot that point as I was reading, so I got too carried away in enjoyment of this novella and the happiness I felt at the idea of the gifts. My bad.
The cover is quite pretty and suits the book well. I do wonder if it stands out well enough among all those blow-dried Darcys and polyester-gowned Elizabeths though. I hope so. It deserves it.
Overall, this was an light and pleasing book with a theme that is distinctive and close to the heart. The story line is especially suited as a Christmas read due to its gift theme. The story line stands up well to the book it pays homage to and pulls at the heart strings. It's a quick read for the times when that's what you need.
Disclaimer: I am a JAFF author and because of this, my review could be considered a conflict of interest. However, I am a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of both the reader and the author.
My review will not contain a summary or spoilers, just a technical review since this aspect can make or break reading enjoyment.
The plot, flow, and characterization were all seamless. As is a good writing choice for a short story, there was minimal introduction of new characters and they were well applied.
I only found one typo, one non-Regency word (aback) and one non-British expression (the holidays). Other authors should learn from Brenda J. Webb's attention to detail. It's not often that I see a book this clean. Even most JAFF and Regency romance novellas have a half a dozen non-Regency words in them. Not this one.
The language use was good, with no difficult words to look up, yet the tone was definitely Regency.
Some have quibbled about the concept of Christmas gift giving being non-Regency. I forgot that point as I was reading, so I got too carried away in enjoyment of this novella and the happiness I felt at the idea of the gifts. My bad.
The cover is quite pretty and suits the book well. I do wonder if it stands out well enough among all those blow-dried Darcys and polyester-gowned Elizabeths though. I hope so. It deserves it.
Overall, this was an light and pleasing book with a theme that is distinctive and close to the heart. The story line is especially suited as a Christmas read due to its gift theme. The story line stands up well to the book it pays homage to and pulls at the heart strings. It's a quick read for the times when that's what you need.
Disclaimer: I am a JAFF author and because of this, my review could be considered a conflict of interest. However, I am a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of both the reader and the author.
August 8, 2023
This story was short, and within its page count it managed a sweet and sometimes poignant story that I really enjoyed. There were plenty of things that happened for plot convenience, but I can forgive it for the length.
4 stars.
4 stars.
August 21, 2022
This premise had so much to expand on but the author had unfortunately decided to make it into a novella which meant that the HEA was a quick work and hence a bit unbelievable. What was there was sweet but many ofvtge details, like why Lydia was abandoned at Newcastle if she didn't marry Wickham? How did she come back to her family? Why Darcy didn't introduce Elizabeth to his sister? What happened to the Bingleys? and so on...
January 18, 2017
A Twist of Fate.
Another lovely tale by Brenda Webb featuring Darcy and Lizzie. A short but delightful story. Usually, Brenda weaves a tale with complicated plots, that are sometimes, with Historical backgrounds, and complicated, evil villains (often Mrs. Bennet), but this was just a sweet tale, where Mr. Bennet has passed on and the family has fallen on hard times. By a Twist of Fate, Lizzie and Jane are trying to sell jewelry for Christmas at A lightly used/thrift store and are spotted by Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam. And the story takes off from there! Expect anything from Brenda Webb to be an Excellent Read!
Another lovely tale by Brenda Webb featuring Darcy and Lizzie. A short but delightful story. Usually, Brenda weaves a tale with complicated plots, that are sometimes, with Historical backgrounds, and complicated, evil villains (often Mrs. Bennet), but this was just a sweet tale, where Mr. Bennet has passed on and the family has fallen on hard times. By a Twist of Fate, Lizzie and Jane are trying to sell jewelry for Christmas at A lightly used/thrift store and are spotted by Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam. And the story takes off from there! Expect anything from Brenda Webb to be an Excellent Read!
January 18, 2017
Short and Sweet AU Story
A perfect short read, everybody in character with drastically different circumstances. And all wrapped up at Christmas in a fuzzy HEA.
But Brenda! What about the Colonel ?!?!? Nothing but the glory. Oh Well. FYI- 4 stars is my personal Max for a stand-alone short story.
A perfect short read, everybody in character with drastically different circumstances. And all wrapped up at Christmas in a fuzzy HEA.
But Brenda! What about the Colonel ?!?!? Nothing but the glory. Oh Well. FYI- 4 stars is my personal Max for a stand-alone short story.
June 18, 2017
For all the fans of Jane Austen and Pride and Prejudice; first published in 1813. It is a story of Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy and begins where Jane Austen ends her book. Before reading this book you need to read Pride and prejudice.
It is a short book of 40 pages. The book is good and the writing style is same as of Jane Austen.
It is a short book of 40 pages. The book is good and the writing style is same as of Jane Austen.
February 3, 2017
Twist of fate
This is an alternative P&P short story. Loved the premise. In this story Mr Bennet passed away the Bennet ladies are out and Lizzy is in service. Three yrs go by and by chance Darcy and Col Fitzwilliam see Jane and Lizzy in a shop selling Jewlery. Darcy is concerned and this sets things in motion. What I didn't like is how fast the HEA happened once the action starts. I think this story would be perfect if the story was expanded upon. The idea was excellent and really deserved more. This is why I rated it 3 Stars and not 5.
This is an alternative P&P short story. Loved the premise. In this story Mr Bennet passed away the Bennet ladies are out and Lizzy is in service. Three yrs go by and by chance Darcy and Col Fitzwilliam see Jane and Lizzy in a shop selling Jewlery. Darcy is concerned and this sets things in motion. What I didn't like is how fast the HEA happened once the action starts. I think this story would be perfect if the story was expanded upon. The idea was excellent and really deserved more. This is why I rated it 3 Stars and not 5.
January 8, 2018
Short but sweet! You do need to ignore some historical inaccuracies but they do not detract from the story. It is incredibly fast paced with the story taking place some time after Mr Bennet"s sad demise and is a heartwarming rags to riches story in record time. Recommend this for acquiring but sweet read that will not make you think too hard.
February 10, 2017
In this short Pride and Prejudice variation, things could not be worse for the Bennet ladies. A chance encounter puts Darcy and Elizabeth together for the first times 2 years after the proposal at Hunsford. Once he realizes his Elizabeth is struggling he does all he can to help her without her knowledge. Curiosity wins the day which leads to a very sweet happily ever after.
February 6, 2017
Brenda Webb is a wonderful writer and you want to sample her skill this is one way because there is nothing to lose on your end. It's a free book and only 40 pages. The length definitely effects what is possible to happen in the story. In this book Colonel Fitzwilliam plays matchmaker. If not for his part the two may have never realized how the other truly felt. When that moment comes to fruition it was spectacular. We have seen Darcy have his loneliness magnified at the fear of never having the other part of his heart and finally seeing him for the great man he is. I loved how it all unfolded. This is a clean read and if at the end you want more Fitzwilliam Darcy: An Honourable Man is her best work IMO. Enjoy!
January 30, 2017
A Twist of Fate
A very short, but heartfelt variation, bringing lovers reunited two years after Hunsford. Call it providence or divine intervention, but to be at the same place, at the same time, put Elizabeth Bennet in Darcy's path once more. Recognizing Colonel Fitzwilliam, and then catching a view of Darcy, Elizabeth grabs Jane's hand and pulls her out of the shop where Elizabeth has sold her grandmother's gift of a pair of jeweled combs at Blaylock's. The Colonel is looking for a gift for his sister. He recognises Elizabeth Bennet, and Darcy is sure the other young lady is Jane Bennet, but both young ladies look sad and worn out. Entering Mr Blaylock's office, he shows the colonel pair of earrings and the pair of combs. Darcy convinces him to explain why Elizabeth had sold them. Hearing the story that arose after the death of Mr Bennet, Darcy not only buys the combs, but tells Richard he has to help the family. After Wickham leaves Lydia unmarried and with child, she returned home. None of Mrs Bennet's daughters married due to Lydia's scandal and Mr Gardiner relocated them in London at a small cottage of four rooms. Elizabeth looked worn because she was working as a caretaker for an elderly woman and worked from evening until the morning. Trying to get sleep with six women and one child during the day was almost impossible. Riding to the park near Elizabeth's uncle's house, he sees Elizabeth enter the park. He's hidden, but when he sees a vagrant approaching her, he rides into action. Elizabeth's prejudice still is clouding her judgement and her mouth. Darcy arranges three crates of food and gifts to be delivered to the cottage. Because it was a soldier that delivered them, Elizabeth assumed it was Colonel Fitzwilliam that provided for their holiday gifts and food even though a note attached said otherwise. Elizabeth's combs are also part of her presents. The day after delivery of the gifts and food the colonel and Darcy ride to the park only to meet all of the Gardiners' children, Lydia's child, and the Bennet girls. Out in the open Darcy turns to leave, but Colonel Fitzwilliam stays and talks to Elizabeth. Finding out that the colonel didn't send the crates, he returns to Darcy House. Egging Darcy on by needling him, Darcy yells forcefully that his help was not for gratitude, but he wanted her to love him. And hiding behind study door 1 was Elizabeth Bennet declaring her love for Darcy. Two of ODCs are united in matrimony, Lydia's child's foot is fixed by a surgeon, and the rest of the Bennets are relocated to a small estate outside London. There were a few instances where I needed Kleenex tissues to get through the readings. Otherwise, a HEA story. Loved the additional Blaylock characters knowing the Bennet girls since they were little. Added another element to the story.
A very short, but heartfelt variation, bringing lovers reunited two years after Hunsford. Call it providence or divine intervention, but to be at the same place, at the same time, put Elizabeth Bennet in Darcy's path once more. Recognizing Colonel Fitzwilliam, and then catching a view of Darcy, Elizabeth grabs Jane's hand and pulls her out of the shop where Elizabeth has sold her grandmother's gift of a pair of jeweled combs at Blaylock's. The Colonel is looking for a gift for his sister. He recognises Elizabeth Bennet, and Darcy is sure the other young lady is Jane Bennet, but both young ladies look sad and worn out. Entering Mr Blaylock's office, he shows the colonel pair of earrings and the pair of combs. Darcy convinces him to explain why Elizabeth had sold them. Hearing the story that arose after the death of Mr Bennet, Darcy not only buys the combs, but tells Richard he has to help the family. After Wickham leaves Lydia unmarried and with child, she returned home. None of Mrs Bennet's daughters married due to Lydia's scandal and Mr Gardiner relocated them in London at a small cottage of four rooms. Elizabeth looked worn because she was working as a caretaker for an elderly woman and worked from evening until the morning. Trying to get sleep with six women and one child during the day was almost impossible. Riding to the park near Elizabeth's uncle's house, he sees Elizabeth enter the park. He's hidden, but when he sees a vagrant approaching her, he rides into action. Elizabeth's prejudice still is clouding her judgement and her mouth. Darcy arranges three crates of food and gifts to be delivered to the cottage. Because it was a soldier that delivered them, Elizabeth assumed it was Colonel Fitzwilliam that provided for their holiday gifts and food even though a note attached said otherwise. Elizabeth's combs are also part of her presents. The day after delivery of the gifts and food the colonel and Darcy ride to the park only to meet all of the Gardiners' children, Lydia's child, and the Bennet girls. Out in the open Darcy turns to leave, but Colonel Fitzwilliam stays and talks to Elizabeth. Finding out that the colonel didn't send the crates, he returns to Darcy House. Egging Darcy on by needling him, Darcy yells forcefully that his help was not for gratitude, but he wanted her to love him. And hiding behind study door 1 was Elizabeth Bennet declaring her love for Darcy. Two of ODCs are united in matrimony, Lydia's child's foot is fixed by a surgeon, and the rest of the Bennets are relocated to a small estate outside London. There were a few instances where I needed Kleenex tissues to get through the readings. Otherwise, a HEA story. Loved the additional Blaylock characters knowing the Bennet girls since they were little. Added another element to the story.
September 7, 2017
I have only read a couple of Ms. Webb's books, but I enjoy her style and her clear voice for her characters. That is important to me as a reader. She also does not load the story down with TONS of description that eventually pulls me from the story.
I do have a few questions about the story, though. Part 1 says that Mr. Bennet died in the summer of 1812. Would that not have made him dead before Darcy met Elizabeth?
In part 2, Colonel Fitzwilliam tells Darcy that Wickham deserted the militia and sailed for America. Could not Wickham could simply resign his commission in the militia? He would be expected to reimburse the person who paid him to join in his place, but Wickham could easily skip out on the debt, as he was accustomed to doing. The militia was not as structure as were the Regulars.
Although it was possible, have presents under a Christmas tree would be a bit odd in this time period.
In Part 4, Ms. Webb switches to the butler's point of view, which takes us out of Darcy's head.
I do have a few questions about the story, though. Part 1 says that Mr. Bennet died in the summer of 1812. Would that not have made him dead before Darcy met Elizabeth?
In part 2, Colonel Fitzwilliam tells Darcy that Wickham deserted the militia and sailed for America. Could not Wickham could simply resign his commission in the militia? He would be expected to reimburse the person who paid him to join in his place, but Wickham could easily skip out on the debt, as he was accustomed to doing. The militia was not as structure as were the Regulars.
Although it was possible, have presents under a Christmas tree would be a bit odd in this time period.
In Part 4, Ms. Webb switches to the butler's point of view, which takes us out of Darcy's head.
May 9, 2017
This is an imaginative P&P "what-if", but did have at least one loophole--why did Mr. Darcy think Elizabeth had married into the Lucas family? It was never touched on whether or not that was a false rumor, or if the engagement was broken off after Lydia's fall and their father's death. It was also impossible to imagine such a quick, tidy ending. However, should this scenario be given more pages for the story to unfold, I think it would make a pleasing Austen variation. It has endearing new characters and a believable plot. All in all, worth an hour's read for pleasure and contemplation.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2021
Short sweet story.This short story was full of interesting characters and plot s. This author could have written more about each one of them.I liked this Elizabeth,take charge person.
This short story was full of interesting characters and plots.I really liked this Elizabeth ,take charge attitudes. I wish Brenda Webb could have written a few more chapters.I was just getting comfortable when it ended.
This short story was full of interesting characters and plots.I really liked this Elizabeth ,take charge attitudes. I wish Brenda Webb could have written a few more chapters.I was just getting comfortable when it ended.
November 4, 2021
This was a 25 minute read
The Bennet sisters have fallen on hard times and Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam witness Elizabeth selling her belongings. Darcy sends her a generous gift and she assumes it was from the Colonel. I have no idea why she thought the Colonel was more likely than Darcy, she'd seen both of them previously. Then there is a declaration from her that I found a little surprising.
The Bennet sisters have fallen on hard times and Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam witness Elizabeth selling her belongings. Darcy sends her a generous gift and she assumes it was from the Colonel. I have no idea why she thought the Colonel was more likely than Darcy, she'd seen both of them previously. Then there is a declaration from her that I found a little surprising.
June 1, 2018
This little story makes for a delightful short read. It takes place during the holidays and in this setting the Bennet women find themselves in reduced circumstances. Elizabeth and Darcy have not seen each other in two years, but because of this little "Twist of Fate," have a chance at finding each other again and having a happy ending. Very nicely done!
November 15, 2018
I merely skimmed this short story, so I don't have the ability to appropriately review it. That being said, I guess I feel rather neutral. The only thing I can say for certain is that I'm not entirely sure how I feel about Pride and Prejudice fan fiction yet...
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