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Honor and Hope
From the first moment Will Darcy meets her, Liz Bennet consumes his every thought. He is the star quarterback, winner of a collegiate national championship and a Super Bowl ring; he could name the woman with whom he wants to spend his time, but it is Elizabeth Bennet to whom he is devoted. Like two fires consuming one another, Will and Liz have a passionate desire for one another, sometimes to the point of distraction. Meeting first in college, they become the athletic "darlings" of their college campus until Will's Southern honor puts him in a position to control Liz's life; then, her fierce independence makes Liz fight Will's need to "take care of everyone he loves," dashing his hopes of their loving each other forever. Six years later they find one another along the road to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and the passionate spark between them brings them back together, but "secrets" threaten to destroy their "hopes" once again. Can Liz tolerate Will's secret control of her financial future? Can Will forgive Liz for keeping the knowledge of their child from him? Misunderstandings mixed with the intrigue of Congressional hearings into steroid use in pro sports along with blackmail peppers the lives of two dynamic characters who need each other to be complete but who could easily destroy each other with their passion. Will Darcy embodies the compelling romantic lead. He is stoic, enigmatic, and intriguing. His inscrutable nature personifies the female fantasy, creating the perfect soul mate. Spunky and independent, Liz Bennet forces the issue of individual identity while meeting the responsibility for her family's social and economic well being. Yet, Liz questions her own ability to keep Will's love while desperately needing it. Having a blend of admirable qualities, quirks, and flaws, Liz Bennet is someone any reader would want to know. Honor and Hope explores the special question of the meaning of freedom in a loving relationship.
340 pages, Paperback
First published April 16, 2008
16 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Regina Jeffers
132 books707 followersRegina Jeffers, an award-winning author of historical cozy mysteries, Austenesque sequels and retellings, as well as Regency era romances, has worn many hats over her lifetime: daughter, student, military brat, wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, tax preparer, journalist, choreographer, Broadway dancer, theatre director, history buff, grant writer, media literacy consultant, and author. Living outside of Charlotte, NC, Jeffers writes novels that take the ordinary and adds a bit of mayhem, while mastering tension in her own life with a bit of gardening and the exuberance of her “grand joys.”
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
December 31, 2019
I read this in on my kindle but can't seem to change the version from paperback to kindle so read the review there.
December 30, 2019
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars
First, a warning, there are lots of MA scenes in this book. This modern day Elizabeth Bennet and Will Darcy have an intense sexual attraction...an attraction which, at times, over rides the course of their relationship. Meaning that they fall into bed together despite having just determined that they are breaking up or that there is no future for them.
This story is loosely based on P&P but the strongest similarity is the misunderstandings between them. Sometimes I just groaned at how outlandish the way one or the other took and/or acted upon what was said or happening. Then there are the secrets they kept...for many years...from each other. These were not small secrets but very significant events, the one I looked upon as hurtful, as did our one main character. (I don't want to reveal a SPOILER here.)
This Darcy earns his wealth through his athleticism in football, pushed to take care of not only his two siblings but also his mother and then Elizabeth. However, she constantly rejects offers of help and even suggestions of marriage as she sees herself as not worthy and also clings to a sense of independence stubbornly.
There is a Wickham in this story who strikes at Darcy and/or his family or loved ones more than once. He early on detects Darcy's love for E. and uses that knowledge to wound Darcy.
There are YEARS of separation in this couple's relationship. All the while neither finds another person with whom to develop a love or to want a future. Darcy works on his football career and taking care of/protecting his circle while she takes care of her family's tobacco farm and gains her nursing degree after some starts and stops.
This story kept my interest but I was not happy with this couple's blindness to how they were each their own worse enemy. Talk it out with family, friends or each other, please.
First, a warning, there are lots of MA scenes in this book. This modern day Elizabeth Bennet and Will Darcy have an intense sexual attraction...an attraction which, at times, over rides the course of their relationship. Meaning that they fall into bed together despite having just determined that they are breaking up or that there is no future for them.
This story is loosely based on P&P but the strongest similarity is the misunderstandings between them. Sometimes I just groaned at how outlandish the way one or the other took and/or acted upon what was said or happening. Then there are the secrets they kept...for many years...from each other. These were not small secrets but very significant events, the one I looked upon as hurtful, as did our one main character. (I don't want to reveal a SPOILER here.)
This Darcy earns his wealth through his athleticism in football, pushed to take care of not only his two siblings but also his mother and then Elizabeth. However, she constantly rejects offers of help and even suggestions of marriage as she sees herself as not worthy and also clings to a sense of independence stubbornly.
There is a Wickham in this story who strikes at Darcy and/or his family or loved ones more than once. He early on detects Darcy's love for E. and uses that knowledge to wound Darcy.
There are YEARS of separation in this couple's relationship. All the while neither finds another person with whom to develop a love or to want a future. Darcy works on his football career and taking care of/protecting his circle while she takes care of her family's tobacco farm and gains her nursing degree after some starts and stops.
This story kept my interest but I was not happy with this couple's blindness to how they were each their own worse enemy. Talk it out with family, friends or each other, please.
December 26, 2019
Modern variation of P&P
I have a love/hate relationship with this book. It is engaging and captivating which made me unable to put it down but... the weak spots in the plot were annoying.
Elizabeth is a freshman when she and Jane meet the Darcy brothers. Elizabeth is a long-distance runner and Darcy is in his last year and an aspiring quarterback. Elizabeth is often thrown into Will Darcy's company as her sister Jane enters a relationship immediately with his brother Charles. They enter fast into a physical relationship but it ends rather abruptly and I can't say I really understood why...
They meet again 6 years later by accident and picks up where they left off but they both keep secrets from each other. Darcy's secret I had no problem with except for Elizabeth's reaction to it which felt exaggerated. Elizabeth's secret, on the other hand, was unforgivable. I struggled with the reason for her secrecy which to me is not credible.
Elizabeth was not very likeable in this book and I was not too fond of Darcy either. I felt there was much wanting in the intellectual capacity of both. They have an on and off relationship with weak reasons for both splitting and joining from my point of view.
Wickham enters the story as Westing and stirs up Darcy's equilibrium on several occasions.
The plot is sports-related and I have zero knowledge of American football, the thought however of a career in sports could be more important than love is unfathomable to me.
Their passionate exchanges was hot and the proposal was lovely. Loved seeing Darcy as a father at the end.
Loved Jane and Charles in this book.
Liked that Jeffers doesn't keep it close to canon in the timeline. I loved the unpredictable quality which kept the pages turning for me.
I didn't really like the main characters in this book but since it was Unputdownable thrilling to read, I ended up with 4 stars.
I have a love/hate relationship with this book. It is engaging and captivating which made me unable to put it down but... the weak spots in the plot were annoying.
Elizabeth is a freshman when she and Jane meet the Darcy brothers. Elizabeth is a long-distance runner and Darcy is in his last year and an aspiring quarterback. Elizabeth is often thrown into Will Darcy's company as her sister Jane enters a relationship immediately with his brother Charles. They enter fast into a physical relationship but it ends rather abruptly and I can't say I really understood why...
They meet again 6 years later by accident and picks up where they left off but they both keep secrets from each other. Darcy's secret I had no problem with except for Elizabeth's reaction to it which felt exaggerated. Elizabeth's secret, on the other hand, was unforgivable. I struggled with the reason for her secrecy which to me is not credible.
Elizabeth was not very likeable in this book and I was not too fond of Darcy either. I felt there was much wanting in the intellectual capacity of both. They have an on and off relationship with weak reasons for both splitting and joining from my point of view.
Wickham enters the story as Westing and stirs up Darcy's equilibrium on several occasions.
The plot is sports-related and I have zero knowledge of American football, the thought however of a career in sports could be more important than love is unfathomable to me.
Their passionate exchanges was hot and the proposal was lovely. Loved seeing Darcy as a father at the end.
Loved Jane and Charles in this book.
Liked that Jeffers doesn't keep it close to canon in the timeline. I loved the unpredictable quality which kept the pages turning for me.
I didn't really like the main characters in this book but since it was Unputdownable thrilling to read, I ended up with 4 stars.
January 14, 2018
I had this book on my "to-read" shelf for years, and I finally decided to sit and read it. It didn't feature the thing I was expecting the most being a Regina Jeffers story - overuse of pet names. Before I launch into my review I have to say that I am very biased against modern versions of P&P. They are always dated, and almost always are awkwardly created to fit both the storyline of the original and the modern setting, and usually feature something the author has a personal interest in - in this case North Carolina and US Football.
I have to say that this story is refreshing in the sense that it is not just a rehash of P&P set in modern times. The story is different, but still has similar elements. I have to say that this Darcy is too "good". He doesn't really have any unlikeable characteristics, whereas Elizabeth is more hot-headed and a bit irrational. What wore me down with this story is that it was like a soap opera. They were together very quickly and passionately, have sex (intimately described), break up, repeat x 6. This was spread out over years. There was drama (from the outside, and inside their relationship) during every one of these cycles. There's blackmail, hospital visits, jealousy, a Hurricane/Tornado, a coma, etc., etc. It just got to be a bit much.
I have to say that this story is refreshing in the sense that it is not just a rehash of P&P set in modern times. The story is different, but still has similar elements. I have to say that this Darcy is too "good". He doesn't really have any unlikeable characteristics, whereas Elizabeth is more hot-headed and a bit irrational. What wore me down with this story is that it was like a soap opera. They were together very quickly and passionately, have sex (intimately described), break up, repeat x 6. This was spread out over years. There was drama (from the outside, and inside their relationship) during every one of these cycles. There's blackmail, hospital visits, jealousy, a Hurricane/Tornado, a coma, etc., etc. It just got to be a bit much.
December 10, 2020
Not much to like
There is more telling vice creating of the storylines in this novel. I overlooked the grammar errors that often forced me to question the author’s narrative intent and plowed through only to be overwhelming disappointed with the unnecessary subplot of Liz withholding the fact she gave birth to Darcy’s daughter six years earlier AND was in her 2nd trimester of pregnancy with his son. It’s so sad that many modern day variations of P&P miss the mark with Elizabeth. I’ve read versions in which her characterizations comes across as confrontational and abrasive. Ms Jeffers has crafted an Elizabeth who is unfocused, immature and subject to temper tantrums and attempted to disguise it as fiercely independent and intelligent.
There is more telling vice creating of the storylines in this novel. I overlooked the grammar errors that often forced me to question the author’s narrative intent and plowed through only to be overwhelming disappointed with the unnecessary subplot of Liz withholding the fact she gave birth to Darcy’s daughter six years earlier AND was in her 2nd trimester of pregnancy with his son. It’s so sad that many modern day variations of P&P miss the mark with Elizabeth. I’ve read versions in which her characterizations comes across as confrontational and abrasive. Ms Jeffers has crafted an Elizabeth who is unfocused, immature and subject to temper tantrums and attempted to disguise it as fiercely independent and intelligent.
August 13, 2018
Lizzie is very undecided and superficial in this story. I really don't see why they need to separate at the beginning then for her to chase after him. When they meet again, for her to angry at him or driving him away as well as not telling him about their progenies. nDarcy is also not as strong willed about Lizzie , though I can respect that he wantedto give her space. Also , with all his money and keeping tabs on what is going on in her life , he didn't find out about Cassie earlier. There are a lot of affectionate scenes, I think it was a little overkill for me.
March 18, 2023
I always enjoy this writer's books! I have read several contemporary versions of Pride and Prejudice, but this one is definitely my favorite. The writing is so well done! I loved the storyline, beginning with Fitzwilliam Darcy and his younger brother, Chuck, meeting the Bennet sister, Elizabeth and Jane, while in college. This was a very romantic tale with some great romance scenes between Will and Liz. Their chemistry and complete stubbornness drove me nuts! (In a good way!)
December 18, 2020
Questionable Choices
I love a good modern variation. I read this in April 2020. For some reason, I rated but didn’t review it at the time. I thought some of Elizabeth’s choices weren’t the best, but the happy ending satisfied me. Putting this on my re-read shelf so I can come back at some point and give a better review.
I love a good modern variation. I read this in April 2020. For some reason, I rated but didn’t review it at the time. I thought some of Elizabeth’s choices weren’t the best, but the happy ending satisfied me. Putting this on my re-read shelf so I can come back at some point and give a better review.
March 15, 2022
Fitzwilliam Darcy is not a man of honor. Having pre-marital relations is not honorable.
Content Warning: Intimate scenes and profanity.
I won a copy. I've expressed my honest opinion.
Content Warning: Intimate scenes and profanity.
I won a copy. I've expressed my honest opinion.
January 21, 2013
Regina Jeffers brings North Carolina sensibilities to her modern adaptation of 'Pride and Prejudice,' and writes a sensual, fiery retelling of William and Elizabeth. But, this couple seems to have more in common with Burton and Taylor than Austen's legendary duo.
Will and Liz meet in college and begin a VERY heated affair that consumes them both, except for Will's plans to support his family. A love affair was never part of a Quarterback's success story, and Will would never deviate from the expected narratives of his team, school, family and himself. Liz lashes out in anger by dropping out of his life, while keeping a secret that will forever tie them together and tear them apart at the same time. The novel thrives in in the North Carolina countryside, bringing heaping servings of angst, passion and tension.
Much like Liz and Dick, versus Elizabeth and Darcy, Liz and Will's manipulations and verbal battles can grow weary on the reader. Both characters have a tendency to be immature and lash out their frustrations on those around them.
Jeffers is an expert regency storyteller, who weaves passion, plot, dialogue and historical accuracy into a tidy narrative. Liz and Will, at the beginning of the book, slipped into regency speak a bit to easily for me, pulling me out of the story a few times.
Overall, if you want to see Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy mirror Heathcliff and Catherine, this is the story for you!
Will and Liz meet in college and begin a VERY heated affair that consumes them both, except for Will's plans to support his family. A love affair was never part of a Quarterback's success story, and Will would never deviate from the expected narratives of his team, school, family and himself. Liz lashes out in anger by dropping out of his life, while keeping a secret that will forever tie them together and tear them apart at the same time. The novel thrives in in the North Carolina countryside, bringing heaping servings of angst, passion and tension.
Much like Liz and Dick, versus Elizabeth and Darcy, Liz and Will's manipulations and verbal battles can grow weary on the reader. Both characters have a tendency to be immature and lash out their frustrations on those around them.
Jeffers is an expert regency storyteller, who weaves passion, plot, dialogue and historical accuracy into a tidy narrative. Liz and Will, at the beginning of the book, slipped into regency speak a bit to easily for me, pulling me out of the story a few times.
Overall, if you want to see Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy mirror Heathcliff and Catherine, this is the story for you!
February 13, 2013
This modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice was very enjoyable. The story is not really P&P in the modern world, but more of Austen's characters in the modern world.
There were several times I wanted to shake Will and Elizabeth, their misunderstandings intrude and are the means of separating them. When they finally do come together and communicate their problems away, fate sneaks up and throws them yet another hurdle that kept me up to the wee hours of the morning reading lest I stay awake from the angst of it all.
A true piece of enjoyable Jane Austen Fan Fiction. Way to go, Regina! Thanks for another good one!
There were several times I wanted to shake Will and Elizabeth, their misunderstandings intrude and are the means of separating them. When they finally do come together and communicate their problems away, fate sneaks up and throws them yet another hurdle that kept me up to the wee hours of the morning reading lest I stay awake from the angst of it all.
A true piece of enjoyable Jane Austen Fan Fiction. Way to go, Regina! Thanks for another good one!
July 11, 2012
Hmmm!! I love Regina's books but this one fell flat for me. There was definitely romance and angst with a lot of misunderstanding thrown in. I guess I was not totally in sink with how the story progressed. For the Pride and Prejudice lovers this was really not a modern version, but it did have the character names and lots of lover spats! The parents of Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth(Will & Liz) loved P&P hence the names. Of course there is the proverbial villian in the form of "George Westing" who reaks havok on our favorite characters. So I would say if your looking for a light easy romance to read on the beach, this book would do just fine. Not my fav by Regina but was addequit.
August 27, 2012
It has a good theme, good narrative voice, but I couldn't quite get through the always back and forward relationship the couple had. It was too much to get together and split, than back again and not telling the Darcy of the child - Lizzy was a bit weak of a character. Didn't enjoy that part. I get all that she and he had to go through, but in the end it was to much, for me.
In my mind, even with a different set/time/plot... Darcy and Lizzy are always much of what Jane Austen created: pride, prejudiced, headstrong, nice, polite, lively, intelligent, sincere and upfront characters. This Lizzy and this Darcy had all of it, except the straightforward feature.
In overall, it's a OK read.
In my mind, even with a different set/time/plot... Darcy and Lizzy are always much of what Jane Austen created: pride, prejudiced, headstrong, nice, polite, lively, intelligent, sincere and upfront characters. This Lizzy and this Darcy had all of it, except the straightforward feature.
In overall, it's a OK read.
March 14, 2015
The works of Regina Jeffers are a guarantee.
This novel is not a true modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice but I really enjoyed it!!!
The chemistry between Darcy and Elizabeth is immediately visible but they had to deal with the pride , responsibility and the future. They are young and they separated because, maybe, they don’t have the strength to face together this things now. But they cannot stay away forever, partly because Elizabeth never said Darcy that there a daughter.. his daughter.
This novel is not a true modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice but I really enjoyed it!!!
The chemistry between Darcy and Elizabeth is immediately visible but they had to deal with the pride , responsibility and the future. They are young and they separated because, maybe, they don’t have the strength to face together this things now. But they cannot stay away forever, partly because Elizabeth never said Darcy that there a daughter.. his daughter.
June 18, 2009
This is a modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice. It is set in North Carolina, and the main characters are named after Austen's Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. They meet in college and develop a life long love, although like Austen's Persuasion, they are separated for many years. Because it is a modern tale, there is some sexual content, but, at least, the characters are not promiscuous. They only love each other. Boy gets girl, boy loses girl, boy gets girl - the typical love story.
August 20, 2012
This was an interesting twist on P&P with its modernization. Three are parts I love, and parts I feel went too long. It takes seven years and two kids for Darcy and Elizabeth to finally marry. The roller coster ride they felt was something I did too, which is why I enjoyed the book. But, it also leaves me emotionally drained after reading it. While, I couldn't put it down I don't like feeling drained afterwards.
January 1, 2023
Wonderfully written modern adaptation
Elizabeth meets Darcy on her first day at college where she and her sister Jane have rooms near Darcy and his brother Charles. Darcy's a football player and Elizabeth is a runner so they share sports and the discipline that accompanies it. They fall in love, break up, reconnect, break up, and finally make it to the altar. Its not as angry angst as some, its more of the sad angst.
Elizabeth meets Darcy on her first day at college where she and her sister Jane have rooms near Darcy and his brother Charles. Darcy's a football player and Elizabeth is a runner so they share sports and the discipline that accompanies it. They fall in love, break up, reconnect, break up, and finally make it to the altar. Its not as angry angst as some, its more of the sad angst.
August 16, 2012
I love modern adaptions of Pride and Prejudice :)
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews