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Darcy's Tempest: A Pride and Prejudice Short Story
Months after Elizabeth Bennet rejected his proposal, Darcy confesses to Bingley that he was wrong about Jane Bennet's affections. He agrees to accompany the hopeful Bingley back to Hertfordshire, resigned to seeing Elizabeth but with little hope of winning her hand. That all changes when a storm strands them alone together. Can Darcy make the most of the situation and convince Elizabeth that he has changed? Or is he still the last man in the world she could ever be prevailed upon to marry? This alternate ending to Jane Austen's most beloved story, told from Darcy's perspective, explores what would have happened if Darcy and Elizabeth met again in Hertfordshire rather than at Pemberley. At 10,000+ words, it is a short glimpse into Jane Austen's world that can be enjoyed in an afternoon or evening.
32 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 22, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
September 30, 2017
A short P&P what if. Here we have a scenario where I don't think Lizzy went to Derbyshire, I know Lydia didn't go to Brighton; so the Bennet's aren't beholden to Darcy. When he and Bingley return Lizzy is cool in fact she is rather chilly. He is devastated and goes wandering in the wood while in his cups and stumbles upon Lizzy just as a storm rages. Lizzy takes drunken Darcy to a cabin and they spend the night. Nothing happens as he is passed out and she is sleeping in a chair but the next day they agree to marry. Lots of dialogue no steamy scenes no improprieties. Lady Catherine makes an appearance the morning of the wedding.
One real nitpick, and this is the second time I have seen this recently in a bit of P&P versions, is Darcy describing the Gardiners as 'gentile'. Now I don't think Darcy is antisemitic; I rather think that the author(s) doesn't know the difference between genteel and gentile.
Spell check isn't proofreading.
One real nitpick, and this is the second time I have seen this recently in a bit of P&P versions, is Darcy describing the Gardiners as 'gentile'. Now I don't think Darcy is antisemitic; I rather think that the author(s) doesn't know the difference between genteel and gentile.
Spell check isn't proofreading.
October 16, 2022
“After a storm comes a calm.” Matthew Henry
First, just let me say... I did not like the cover. The demeanor and stance of that couple totally misrepresents the tone of this story and suggests something completely different than what this story was about.
This was a short [32 pages], clean window of time where Darcy and Elizabeth were out and about and became caught in a thunder storm. They took shelter in a hunting cabin on Longbourn property and were forced to spend the night. We now have the forced marriage trope due to the compromise of a lady and the possible loss of her reputation and that of her family.
“In times of crisis, different people react in different ways. Some might try to escape. Others might attempt to batten down the hatches and ride out the storm in a safe haven.” Cullen Bunn
I always enjoy page time with ODC [our dear couple]. It allows them a chance to talk and settle any problems they might still have. This was post Hunsford and that disastrous proposal. Darcy was able to talk to her with no one around to interrupt or distract. Lizzy was able to see Darcy in a new light and to apologize for her feelings and emotions toward him. They soon worked out a plan and when the storm broke, they headed back to Longbourn to face her family… together.
Speaking of tempest… Lady Catherine stormed Longbourn in order to have her sentiments made known. Lizzy expertly dealt with Lady C just as Darcy arrived to rescue her. It was not necessary. Lizzy had weathered the storm and was just fine.
There were minor errors: one in particular… fiancé [male] vs fiancée [female]… was misrepresented several times.
10-16-22 Edit: I stand corrected on the error I pointed out in the above statement. The macmillan dictionary blog stated that the English verb fiancé meant to be married. Fiancée didn’t come into use until around 1853. I apologize to the author.
First, just let me say... I did not like the cover. The demeanor and stance of that couple totally misrepresents the tone of this story and suggests something completely different than what this story was about.
This was a short [32 pages], clean window of time where Darcy and Elizabeth were out and about and became caught in a thunder storm. They took shelter in a hunting cabin on Longbourn property and were forced to spend the night. We now have the forced marriage trope due to the compromise of a lady and the possible loss of her reputation and that of her family.
“In times of crisis, different people react in different ways. Some might try to escape. Others might attempt to batten down the hatches and ride out the storm in a safe haven.” Cullen Bunn
I always enjoy page time with ODC [our dear couple]. It allows them a chance to talk and settle any problems they might still have. This was post Hunsford and that disastrous proposal. Darcy was able to talk to her with no one around to interrupt or distract. Lizzy was able to see Darcy in a new light and to apologize for her feelings and emotions toward him. They soon worked out a plan and when the storm broke, they headed back to Longbourn to face her family… together.
Speaking of tempest… Lady Catherine stormed Longbourn in order to have her sentiments made known. Lizzy expertly dealt with Lady C just as Darcy arrived to rescue her. It was not necessary. Lizzy had weathered the storm and was just fine.
There were minor errors: one in particular… fiancé [male] vs fiancée [female]… was misrepresented several times.
10-16-22 Edit: I stand corrected on the error I pointed out in the above statement. The macmillan dictionary blog stated that the English verb fiancé meant to be married. Fiancée didn’t come into use until around 1853. I apologize to the author.
October 13, 2017
The first pages of this book are the very best. It occurs on the grounds between Longbourn and Netherfield. Darcy has already proposed and been rejected. He contacted Bingley to admit he was wrong about Jane's affection and accompanied him back to Netherfield. Since he's certain Elizabeth hates him, he does not go with his friend to Longbourn. Instead, he has way too much to drink as he stumbles around the countryside. I love drunk Darcy. His internal monologue is hilarious. Naturally, he encounters Elizabeth on one of her walks. Unfortunately, it's a scene that's all too brief.
When Darcy awakens, he's got a nasty headache. There's a storm raging outside, and Elizabeth has managed to get him to a simple cottage nearby before he passed out. They are stranded there until the waters recede from two streams surrounding them.
It's obviously a compromising situation, and it plays out exactly as you'd expect. Both are pleased with the inevitable outcome, and Lady Catherine, predictably, is not. No surprises in the whole story.
Large swatches of Jane Austen's words are "borrowed." The book is very short, so it seems like cheating to fill so much of it with another author's writing.
When Darcy awakens, he's got a nasty headache. There's a storm raging outside, and Elizabeth has managed to get him to a simple cottage nearby before he passed out. They are stranded there until the waters recede from two streams surrounding them.
It's obviously a compromising situation, and it plays out exactly as you'd expect. Both are pleased with the inevitable outcome, and Lady Catherine, predictably, is not. No surprises in the whole story.
Large swatches of Jane Austen's words are "borrowed." The book is very short, so it seems like cheating to fill so much of it with another author's writing.
February 13, 2018
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
The setting has been used before and the author has no qualms admitting that she uses many of Jane Austen's words. With that said I will add that I enjoyed this short story.
We find Darcy berating himself over the Hunsford proposal as he wanders the country side surrounding Netherfield. He has accompanied Bingley back the Hertfordshire after admitting he just may have been wrong about Jane's feelings. But he does not want to face that lady who still owns his heart so he takes as his companion a bottle...and nearly falls over when he is suddenly facing HER. He awakens from his drunken stupor to find that they have spent the night in a small cabin to shelter from the raging storm.
I am sure you can imagine what ensues. But the conversation between Darcy and Elizabeth is sweet. Lady Catherine does make an appearance but not as in canon.
I found this short story gratifying over my morning coffee. I do like compromise situations as such force a much quicker resolution between Elizabeth and Darcy.
The setting has been used before and the author has no qualms admitting that she uses many of Jane Austen's words. With that said I will add that I enjoyed this short story.
We find Darcy berating himself over the Hunsford proposal as he wanders the country side surrounding Netherfield. He has accompanied Bingley back the Hertfordshire after admitting he just may have been wrong about Jane's feelings. But he does not want to face that lady who still owns his heart so he takes as his companion a bottle...and nearly falls over when he is suddenly facing HER. He awakens from his drunken stupor to find that they have spent the night in a small cabin to shelter from the raging storm.
I am sure you can imagine what ensues. But the conversation between Darcy and Elizabeth is sweet. Lady Catherine does make an appearance but not as in canon.
I found this short story gratifying over my morning coffee. I do like compromise situations as such force a much quicker resolution between Elizabeth and Darcy.
September 30, 2018
Alternate ending
Another cute short story by Miss Kay in which Darcy takes the censure handed out by Elizabeth at the failed proposal and suggested to Mr Bingley that he may have been wrong about Jane’s feelings. This then follows the reuniting of Darcy and Elizabeth and shows how they both have changed, though in a forced way. I’m happy that Elizabeth’s responses were more tamed and not so caustic.
I will highly recommend this short story to all JAFFers looking for a quick read.
Another cute short story by Miss Kay in which Darcy takes the censure handed out by Elizabeth at the failed proposal and suggested to Mr Bingley that he may have been wrong about Jane’s feelings. This then follows the reuniting of Darcy and Elizabeth and shows how they both have changed, though in a forced way. I’m happy that Elizabeth’s responses were more tamed and not so caustic.
I will highly recommend this short story to all JAFFers looking for a quick read.
September 26, 2017
This Pride and Prejudice story features Darcy returning the Hertforshire with Bingley in an effort to win his Elizabeth. They get caught in a compromising situation, but it allows them to spend time talking things out and find their happily ever after voluntarily.
December 3, 2019
Beautifully written novelette.
I absolutely loved it!
A well-used plot where ODC were captured alone in a storm but it the execution was deliciously emotional and masterfully crafted. I did not even mind the reuse of Austen's words, it flowed effortlessly in this new context.
Heartily recommend!
I absolutely loved it!
A well-used plot where ODC were captured alone in a storm but it the execution was deliciously emotional and masterfully crafted. I did not even mind the reuse of Austen's words, it flowed effortlessly in this new context.
Heartily recommend!
January 26, 2021
When Elizabeth and Darcy are forced to take shelter together due to a storm, they end up in a compromising position. This forces them to finally clear the misunderstandings and reveal true feelings to each other.
The cover doesn't really match the story or do it any favors.
The cover doesn't really match the story or do it any favors.
June 19, 2021
Easy Pride and Prejudice retelling
This was short story about what would have happened if Darcy and Elizabeth had met in different circumstances after his proposal to her. It wasn’t my favorite retelling. I feel like things moved way to fast. Although this being a short story I guess they need to. Basically a short easy read but I probably won’t remember it.
This was short story about what would have happened if Darcy and Elizabeth had met in different circumstances after his proposal to her. It wasn’t my favorite retelling. I feel like things moved way to fast. Although this being a short story I guess they need to. Basically a short easy read but I probably won’t remember it.
May 3, 2021
The cover is misleading. It was a quick, clean read.
October 23, 2021
3.5 rounded up
December 2, 2017
The consequences of a storm
Circumstances put both Elizabeth and Darcy in the woods when the storm breaks. They seek shelter in a small empty cottage. Elizabeth knows from experience that the creek between their location and either Longbourn or Netherfield always floods during a rainstorm and it is impossible to cross.
The following morning when it is possible to return, they are both aware that Lizzy's reputation has been compromised. After enduring Mrs. Bennet's yelps, the pair talk with Mr. Bennet and agree to marry.
11
Circumstances put both Elizabeth and Darcy in the woods when the storm breaks. They seek shelter in a small empty cottage. Elizabeth knows from experience that the creek between their location and either Longbourn or Netherfield always floods during a rainstorm and it is impossible to cross.
The following morning when it is possible to return, they are both aware that Lizzy's reputation has been compromised. After enduring Mrs. Bennet's yelps, the pair talk with Mr. Bennet and agree to marry.
11
October 8, 2017
Short, sweet
An easy, too quick read with a pleasant twist to bringing Darcy and Elizabeth together. I agree with another reviewer, I wished for a little more. And, definitely not a bodice ripper, which I appreciated. Perhaps Ms. Kay should 're-evaluate the cover design.
An easy, too quick read with a pleasant twist to bringing Darcy and Elizabeth together. I agree with another reviewer, I wished for a little more. And, definitely not a bodice ripper, which I appreciated. Perhaps Ms. Kay should 're-evaluate the cover design.
November 29, 2017
Meh
It was an ok read I guess. I thought it all too rushed and we’re being told what happens Instead of experiencing it which never fails to irk me (thanks Mockinjay!) but for an afternoon with nothing to do at work I guess it’ll do.
It was an ok read I guess. I thought it all too rushed and we’re being told what happens Instead of experiencing it which never fails to irk me (thanks Mockinjay!) but for an afternoon with nothing to do at work I guess it’ll do.
April 3, 2022
Stumbling drunk and trying to forget the misery of his rejection in Hunsford, Darcy is caught in a thunderstorm while on a ramble at Netherfield. He and Bingley had returned so that the latter could try to make things up to Jane. Darcy just hoped for a last look at Elizabeth, or so he tells himself. Elizabeth happens upon him on her walk and somehow gets him into a cabin for shelter. They are together there thru the night, although Darcy doesn't wake up from his alcohol coma until morning. Compromise trope in 32 pages. Misunderstandings are resolved, apologies made, a marriage takes place, and they're on their way. Quite a few errors.
Just to note that the awful cover here is not the same as the one shown on Kindle Unlimited. If it had been, I would not have read the short story.
Just to note that the awful cover here is not the same as the one shown on Kindle Unlimited. If it had been, I would not have read the short story.
November 1, 2017
Shameful/Poor Summary
With a double meaning to poor summary. First, the synopsis says Lizzy & Darcy are stranded together in a cabin overnight due to a rainstorm. This constituted a very few handful of sentences, most of which revealed Darcy was drunk & passed out. So really the synopsis was a wicked teaser for a plot that doesn't truly exist. The remaining 99% of the book is an extremely poor summary of JA's original work with long passages of word for word quotes.
Shame on the "author" (very loosely used) and shame on anyone who reads this (myself included for being duped!)
With a double meaning to poor summary. First, the synopsis says Lizzy & Darcy are stranded together in a cabin overnight due to a rainstorm. This constituted a very few handful of sentences, most of which revealed Darcy was drunk & passed out. So really the synopsis was a wicked teaser for a plot that doesn't truly exist. The remaining 99% of the book is an extremely poor summary of JA's original work with long passages of word for word quotes.
Shame on the "author" (very loosely used) and shame on anyone who reads this (myself included for being duped!)
October 20, 2020
Bittersweet variation
So bittersweet! Sweet like candy as one would want more of after a slight taste; bitter due to the brevity and the haste the author had worded our beloved couple’s romance and happily ever after. Oh if it were made lengthier and meatier, this reader would not have given a moment’s hesitation to afford this novella more time. However, res ipsa loquitur. The thing speaks for itself. A read of less than an hour is hardly one to make a considerable impact; yet, it begs to the author the question...why? How could a host be so cruel as to shorten a most delightful and pleasurable visit?
So bittersweet! Sweet like candy as one would want more of after a slight taste; bitter due to the brevity and the haste the author had worded our beloved couple’s romance and happily ever after. Oh if it were made lengthier and meatier, this reader would not have given a moment’s hesitation to afford this novella more time. However, res ipsa loquitur. The thing speaks for itself. A read of less than an hour is hardly one to make a considerable impact; yet, it begs to the author the question...why? How could a host be so cruel as to shorten a most delightful and pleasurable visit?
February 11, 2018
Cuts straight to the Chase.
In another book, the impetus is elevators. Herein, romance sprouts from rain, generally, the torrential variety. This very short story covers the bases in a meteorological means toward matrimony. (Sorry, couldn't help myself) This is a PG-13 version at most, but this talented author has an authentic take on our beloved characters: a real rarity amidst the blizzard of attempts currently blanketing the atmosphere. Jennifer Kay is a talented addition to the genre.
In another book, the impetus is elevators. Herein, romance sprouts from rain, generally, the torrential variety. This very short story covers the bases in a meteorological means toward matrimony. (Sorry, couldn't help myself) This is a PG-13 version at most, but this talented author has an authentic take on our beloved characters: a real rarity amidst the blizzard of attempts currently blanketing the atmosphere. Jennifer Kay is a talented addition to the genre.
July 3, 2020
I bought the book with a different cover and thankfully so! This cover does not represent the story at all.
It's a great read and can easily be finished in an afternoon. It's very gentle and borrows heavily from P&P but this just adds to it's charm.
I do love a compromise variation and this didn't disappoint. It's great to hear Darcy's thoughts and feelings and a visit from Lady Catherine is a bonus scene.
I read it on Kindle but we'll definitely be buying a paper copy too.
It's a great read and can easily be finished in an afternoon. It's very gentle and borrows heavily from P&P but this just adds to it's charm.
I do love a compromise variation and this didn't disappoint. It's great to hear Darcy's thoughts and feelings and a visit from Lady Catherine is a bonus scene.
I read it on Kindle but we'll definitely be buying a paper copy too.
June 2, 2021
This is a short story where the variation occurs after the first proposal. Darcy and Elizabeth are forced to spend the night in a cabin due to Darcy being drunk and a storm. Given its length, there isn’t much depth here, but it is from Darcy’s POV. Honestly, I’m not sure the variation was necessary. I would have enjoyed the author’s take on canon when Darcy returns with Bingley. Darcy’s emotions are well-written and enjoyable, but with such a short story, there is not much to work with.
November 11, 2021
A short, sweet story
I read this short story where a stem takes center stage, both literally and internally, while experiencing an actual storm outside my walks. This lends much to atmospheric reading.
A short, sweet, reimagined ending to P&P. This story picks up at the return to Netherfield and straight in to the I do. About a 45 minute read.
I read this short story where a stem takes center stage, both literally and internally, while experiencing an actual storm outside my walks. This lends much to atmospheric reading.
A short, sweet, reimagined ending to P&P. This story picks up at the return to Netherfield and straight in to the I do. About a 45 minute read.
February 15, 2024
Two proposals from the same man? How is it the first is rejected yet a compromise prompts the next
How Darcy and Miss Elizabeth end up in a cabin together overnight is something you won't expect. It's promted by concern, not design. Concern for whom you might ask. Sit back and be prepared to be entertained. Enjoy!
How Darcy and Miss Elizabeth end up in a cabin together overnight is something you won't expect. It's promted by concern, not design. Concern for whom you might ask. Sit back and be prepared to be entertained. Enjoy!
April 7, 2022
sweet and to the point
This is a short, sweet, and low drama variation. This is truly a short story. The story does not add any characters and is dependent the reader having read the original Pride and Prejudice Loved it!
This is a short, sweet, and low drama variation. This is truly a short story. The story does not add any characters and is dependent the reader having read the original Pride and Prejudice Loved it!
October 20, 2017
Very short
Almost exactly like some parts of PandP. No Caroline or Wickham. Everything is tied up in a short while. Okay read.
Almost exactly like some parts of PandP. No Caroline or Wickham. Everything is tied up in a short while. Okay read.
December 14, 2017
Needs a proofread, but it was a quick nice story I guess.
March 13, 2018
The cover is completely misleading! the kindle edition has a lovely landscape on it. fun little (clean) story.
December 7, 2018
Enjoyable enough short story, but loses a star for poor editing & anachronistic language.
June 16, 2019
Nice and short
Very realistic short novel. I like the point of view of Darcy and the reaction of Lizzy after the tempest.
Very realistic short novel. I like the point of view of Darcy and the reaction of Lizzy after the tempest.
January 8, 2022
Sweet short story
Darcy gets drunk in despair and wanders off in bad weather. Elizabeth comes to his rescue and they work things out.
Darcy gets drunk in despair and wanders off in bad weather. Elizabeth comes to his rescue and they work things out.
February 17, 2023
Too short
I enjoyed this short story. In fact, in my opinion, it is too short. I would have enjoyed at the very least an epilogue. It is always nice to see more of their HEA.
I enjoyed this short story. In fact, in my opinion, it is too short. I would have enjoyed at the very least an epilogue. It is always nice to see more of their HEA.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews