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An Odd Situation: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Unconscious from an accident, Mr. Darcy is taken to Longbourn, a place which is unfamiliar to him. He finds himself dependent upon the care of strangers. While there is much to shock and distress him, his situation has unusual compensations. Unbeknownst to others, he is able to hear everything. The resulting revelations and observations give him a new perspective.
196 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 24, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
March 3, 2022
Be careful what you say to a comatose patient… they just might hear you
I adored this story. It was clean, low angst, and such a delightful read. Darcy was on a journey to Netherfield to visit with Bingley. After his carriage experienced problems, he decided to leave his valet to oversee the repairs, and although he would arrive early, decided to head out on horseback. As he journeyed toward Netherfield, a child ran out into the road and spooked his horse. Darcy was thrown, and he smacked his head as he hit the ground. The next thing he knew… he could hear those talking about him but he was unable to respond. The people in the lane decide Longbourn was the closest estate and he should be moved there while they sent for the apothecary.
The apothecary and the doctor from the nearby town both examined Darcy and determined that he was in a coma. Little did anyone know that Darcy could hear everything going on around him. The doctor encouraged that someone should be near the stranger at all times and to talk to him to encourage him in case he could hear. The night time was the most dangerous time. The sound of a human voice might encourage him to wake up.
It was humorous reading Darcy's thoughts as different members of the family watched over him. He heard everything. The gentle and kind eldest daughter was called Jane. The sense and wit of the second daughter they called Elizabeth. Mrs. Bennet’s nervous exclamations. The younger sisters Lydia and Kitty in their exuberant arguing and silliness. Mary’s pedantic readings. Mr. Bennet, with his droll humor, and his close relationship with his second daughter. Slowly, Darcy became familiar with the ebb and flow of the Bennet household simply by listening to them interact with each other and with him. It was a new experience for Darcy as he was a captive audience to this new environment.
It was several days before Bingley found out his friend was lying ill at Longbourn. Darcy’s trusted valet followed shortly upon arriving. Eventually, Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst made their way to Longbourn demanding that Darcy be moved to Netherfield. Thank goodness the doctor declared that under no circumstances should Darcy be moved. By then, our dear Colonel had received Bingley’s letter and had arrived to assist with Darcy’s care and guard him against being moved. Those sisters.
La! This was the best part of the story. Caroline and Louisa talking uninhibitedly in front of a comatose Darcy never realizing that he could hear their every word. Darcy’s eyes were opened… not literally, as he heard their true opinion of him and his sister Georgiana. Oh, it had to hurt as reality hit that he had earlier, for a brief moment, considered making Miss Bingley an offer. They were so clever in wanting him to see them being near and attempting to care for him. Yeah, right… he heard what you said, you two-faced b-witch.
I liked the fact the author didn’t have Darcy snap open his eyes and all was well. Darcy acted and reacted as a true coma victim would in slow progress toward awakening and gaining back skills. Darcy learning sign language with Elizabeth until his voice could return... made communicating with her easier and their discussions were so cute. I love this part.
In canon, Darcy could see but did not see what was in front of him. In this story, Darcy couldn’t see at first, but he could hear and was able to detect more from those unguarded moments when people would talk together or would include him in their conversations. He listened as Jane and Elizabeth discussed their mother’s matchmaking schemes. Mrs. Bennet was not quiet or guarded in her machinations for Jane to secure Bingley. Lydia, Kitty, and even Mary were unguarded in his presence.
Mr. Collins arrived, and since he didn’t know who Darcy was, chided the family for taking in a stranger. So much for Christian charity and love. Eventually, Lady Catherine arrived and had her part in the conversation as to what was best for Darcy. By then he had regained some of his abilities. Darcy’s communicating through Elizabeth did not impress Lady Catherine, Mr. Collins, or Miss Bingley. You knew it was going to happen… Wickham arrived in Meryton with the militia and after insulting Darcy was ushered out of Longbourn with a flea in his ear from Mr. Bennet. Later, when he tried to trash talk Darcy in public, Sir William had something to say about that.
This was simply a delightful story and we were in Darcy’s head the entire time. Simply brilliant as the author addressed so many issues with Darcy’s attitude. In this version, it didn’t take a DHP [Disastrous Hunsford Proposal] or a scathing letter written to Elizabeth for them to come to a conclusion about the true character of each other. I loved this and will definitely read it again.
1st read 2-5-18
2nd read 3-2-22
I adored this story. It was clean, low angst, and such a delightful read. Darcy was on a journey to Netherfield to visit with Bingley. After his carriage experienced problems, he decided to leave his valet to oversee the repairs, and although he would arrive early, decided to head out on horseback. As he journeyed toward Netherfield, a child ran out into the road and spooked his horse. Darcy was thrown, and he smacked his head as he hit the ground. The next thing he knew… he could hear those talking about him but he was unable to respond. The people in the lane decide Longbourn was the closest estate and he should be moved there while they sent for the apothecary.
The apothecary and the doctor from the nearby town both examined Darcy and determined that he was in a coma. Little did anyone know that Darcy could hear everything going on around him. The doctor encouraged that someone should be near the stranger at all times and to talk to him to encourage him in case he could hear. The night time was the most dangerous time. The sound of a human voice might encourage him to wake up.
It was humorous reading Darcy's thoughts as different members of the family watched over him. He heard everything. The gentle and kind eldest daughter was called Jane. The sense and wit of the second daughter they called Elizabeth. Mrs. Bennet’s nervous exclamations. The younger sisters Lydia and Kitty in their exuberant arguing and silliness. Mary’s pedantic readings. Mr. Bennet, with his droll humor, and his close relationship with his second daughter. Slowly, Darcy became familiar with the ebb and flow of the Bennet household simply by listening to them interact with each other and with him. It was a new experience for Darcy as he was a captive audience to this new environment.
It was several days before Bingley found out his friend was lying ill at Longbourn. Darcy’s trusted valet followed shortly upon arriving. Eventually, Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst made their way to Longbourn demanding that Darcy be moved to Netherfield. Thank goodness the doctor declared that under no circumstances should Darcy be moved. By then, our dear Colonel had received Bingley’s letter and had arrived to assist with Darcy’s care and guard him against being moved. Those sisters.
La! This was the best part of the story. Caroline and Louisa talking uninhibitedly in front of a comatose Darcy never realizing that he could hear their every word. Darcy’s eyes were opened… not literally, as he heard their true opinion of him and his sister Georgiana. Oh, it had to hurt as reality hit that he had earlier, for a brief moment, considered making Miss Bingley an offer. They were so clever in wanting him to see them being near and attempting to care for him. Yeah, right… he heard what you said, you two-faced b-witch.
I liked the fact the author didn’t have Darcy snap open his eyes and all was well. Darcy acted and reacted as a true coma victim would in slow progress toward awakening and gaining back skills. Darcy learning sign language with Elizabeth until his voice could return... made communicating with her easier and their discussions were so cute. I love this part.
In canon, Darcy could see but did not see what was in front of him. In this story, Darcy couldn’t see at first, but he could hear and was able to detect more from those unguarded moments when people would talk together or would include him in their conversations. He listened as Jane and Elizabeth discussed their mother’s matchmaking schemes. Mrs. Bennet was not quiet or guarded in her machinations for Jane to secure Bingley. Lydia, Kitty, and even Mary were unguarded in his presence.
Mr. Collins arrived, and since he didn’t know who Darcy was, chided the family for taking in a stranger. So much for Christian charity and love. Eventually, Lady Catherine arrived and had her part in the conversation as to what was best for Darcy. By then he had regained some of his abilities. Darcy’s communicating through Elizabeth did not impress Lady Catherine, Mr. Collins, or Miss Bingley. You knew it was going to happen… Wickham arrived in Meryton with the militia and after insulting Darcy was ushered out of Longbourn with a flea in his ear from Mr. Bennet. Later, when he tried to trash talk Darcy in public, Sir William had something to say about that.
This was simply a delightful story and we were in Darcy’s head the entire time. Simply brilliant as the author addressed so many issues with Darcy’s attitude. In this version, it didn’t take a DHP [Disastrous Hunsford Proposal] or a scathing letter written to Elizabeth for them to come to a conclusion about the true character of each other. I loved this and will definitely read it again.
1st read 2-5-18
2nd read 3-2-22
April 29, 2024
Being unconscious is the ultimate disability. ~ Jessa Gamble
Quote from the Book: “Lying here motionless and listening to others talk without being able to reply had become his life for the moment. This was not what anybody would choose, but it was turning out to be surprisingly interesting. And enlightening.”
This is another “Darcy is recovering at Longbourn” story – similar to several recent stories with one important difference: Darcy is comatose with only one of his senses functional: his hearing.
After his riding accident, Darcy is fortunate enough to be seen by a doctor who has hope he may recover and insists he needs the stimulation of the human voice. The Bennets speak to their patient day and night. Jane and Elizabeth are comfortable chatting with the stranger as if he could respond. Mr. Bennet takes his turn and shares his love of the written word. Mary brings Fordyce. Lydia and Kitty visit and Darcy longs for the return of Fordyce. And Mrs. Bennet’s visit? Well …
Old friends also visit.
The Bingley sisters reveal a part of their nature concealed from the conscious Darcy.
Charles Bingley has a different revelation and Darcy must confront impressions of another sort. As Robert Burns wrote: “O would some power the giftie gie us to see ourselves as others see us.”
I enjoyed this short-cut to Happily Ever After.
There is no scientific explanation for the fact that while my body lay in coma, my mind - my conscious, inner self - was alive and well. ~ Eben Alexander
Quote from the Book: “Lying here motionless and listening to others talk without being able to reply had become his life for the moment. This was not what anybody would choose, but it was turning out to be surprisingly interesting. And enlightening.”
This is another “Darcy is recovering at Longbourn” story – similar to several recent stories with one important difference: Darcy is comatose with only one of his senses functional: his hearing.
After his riding accident, Darcy is fortunate enough to be seen by a doctor who has hope he may recover and insists he needs the stimulation of the human voice. The Bennets speak to their patient day and night. Jane and Elizabeth are comfortable chatting with the stranger as if he could respond. Mr. Bennet takes his turn and shares his love of the written word. Mary brings Fordyce. Lydia and Kitty visit and Darcy longs for the return of Fordyce. And Mrs. Bennet’s visit? Well …
Old friends also visit.
The Bingley sisters reveal a part of their nature concealed from the conscious Darcy.
Charles Bingley has a different revelation and Darcy must confront impressions of another sort. As Robert Burns wrote: “O would some power the giftie gie us to see ourselves as others see us.”
I enjoyed this short-cut to Happily Ever After.
There is no scientific explanation for the fact that while my body lay in coma, my mind - my conscious, inner self - was alive and well. ~ Eben Alexander
February 5, 2018
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
What would you learn about your caretakers, your friends and even yourself if you could hear the unvarnished thoughts of those around you?
Mr. Darcy gets the opportunity to find out when, on his way to join his friend Bingley at Netherfield, he has a riding accident that causes a head injury. He's immediately thrown into a coma, but he can hear and understand everything going on around him. When his accident occurs, the closest estate is Longbourn. He is brought there by his rescuers, though only one of them (who is, fortunately, a doctor) gives him any chance of surviving his injuries. Mrs. Bennet is distressed that he must take residence in her drawing room. Elizabeth, Jane and Mr. Bennet all take charge and provide Darcy with the assistance he needs.
It's a long, slow road to recovery for Mr. Darcy. Dr. Wilson stresses to the Bennets the importance of talking to him, which his research suggests will help draw a patient out of a coma. Thus Mr. Darcy learns quite a lot about the entire Bennet family despite never having been formally introduced to any of them. He also learns quite a lot when the Bingleys discover where he is and come to call. No one is aware he comprehends them perfectly, so he hears their unfiltered conversations.
The setting for the vast majority of the story is limited to Longbourn's drawing room. The entire story is told in third person limited to Mr. Darcy's POV. While I often criticize a story for spending too much time revealing a character's thoughts, in this case it's the central narrative device, along with the dialogue, and it's effective. You can feel Darcy's frustration with his (literally) paralyzing situation and his desire to respond to all the stimuli around him. A reader might find this monotonous and slow, but even that is appropriate, allowing us to relate even more to what Darcy is feeling.
Obviously, Elizabeth's best qualities are apparent to Darcy. She talks to him more naturally than anyone else (except, perhaps, Mr. Bingley and Col. Fitzwilliam), and she is best at anticipating his needs. It's interesting to watch the romance unfold, as Darcy falls in love with her during his coma. When he finally awakens (Oh, come on! Not a spoiler! You certainly know Darcy's not going to DIE, for goodness' sake!), he's aware that she doesn't really know him yet except by his appearance and what she's heard from Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam. He still has a lot of physical challenges after he does wake up which make it difficult for him to communicate.
My only criticism is Otherwise, I found this a very satisfying, creative, outside-the-box kind of Pride and Prejudice story. Clean content.
What would you learn about your caretakers, your friends and even yourself if you could hear the unvarnished thoughts of those around you?
Mr. Darcy gets the opportunity to find out when, on his way to join his friend Bingley at Netherfield, he has a riding accident that causes a head injury. He's immediately thrown into a coma, but he can hear and understand everything going on around him. When his accident occurs, the closest estate is Longbourn. He is brought there by his rescuers, though only one of them (who is, fortunately, a doctor) gives him any chance of surviving his injuries. Mrs. Bennet is distressed that he must take residence in her drawing room. Elizabeth, Jane and Mr. Bennet all take charge and provide Darcy with the assistance he needs.
It's a long, slow road to recovery for Mr. Darcy. Dr. Wilson stresses to the Bennets the importance of talking to him, which his research suggests will help draw a patient out of a coma. Thus Mr. Darcy learns quite a lot about the entire Bennet family despite never having been formally introduced to any of them. He also learns quite a lot when the Bingleys discover where he is and come to call. No one is aware he comprehends them perfectly, so he hears their unfiltered conversations.
The setting for the vast majority of the story is limited to Longbourn's drawing room. The entire story is told in third person limited to Mr. Darcy's POV. While I often criticize a story for spending too much time revealing a character's thoughts, in this case it's the central narrative device, along with the dialogue, and it's effective. You can feel Darcy's frustration with his (literally) paralyzing situation and his desire to respond to all the stimuli around him. A reader might find this monotonous and slow, but even that is appropriate, allowing us to relate even more to what Darcy is feeling.
Obviously, Elizabeth's best qualities are apparent to Darcy. She talks to him more naturally than anyone else (except, perhaps, Mr. Bingley and Col. Fitzwilliam), and she is best at anticipating his needs. It's interesting to watch the romance unfold, as Darcy falls in love with her during his coma. When he finally awakens (Oh, come on! Not a spoiler! You certainly know Darcy's not going to DIE, for goodness' sake!), he's aware that she doesn't really know him yet except by his appearance and what she's heard from Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam. He still has a lot of physical challenges after he does wake up which make it difficult for him to communicate.
My only criticism is Otherwise, I found this a very satisfying, creative, outside-the-box kind of Pride and Prejudice story. Clean content.
February 4, 2018
Let me start out by saying I didn't think I was going to like this book let alone Love it. Having read another book with a similar theme I was a bit skeptical however I was delightfully wrong. This is a fabulous story. Mr. Darcy has an accident and is taken to Longbourn unconscious (note to the author that is how one spells conscious when referring to a being aware of and responding to one's surroundings conscience has to do with Jiminy Cricket) and is cared for the Bennets. It takes several days to establish his name and while he is unconscious he has complete hearing which allows him to learn who his real friends are.
This is really a clever story that allows Darcy to learn a lot about himself while having to listen rather than speak. I very much enjoyed his slow recovery and his frustration with his progress. It takes him longest to recover his speech which leads to some scenes that reminded me of a Ouija board as he could only answer yes and no. Many of our favorite enemies are quick to reveal themselves and receive their comeuppance.
This is really a clever story that allows Darcy to learn a lot about himself while having to listen rather than speak. I very much enjoyed his slow recovery and his frustration with his progress. It takes him longest to recover his speech which leads to some scenes that reminded me of a Ouija board as he could only answer yes and no. Many of our favorite enemies are quick to reveal themselves and receive their comeuppance.
May 12, 2022
Darcy in a coma
I know
I know it’s serious.
Mr. Darcy is thrown from his horse and is a coma! He’s unknown to his rescuers, who bring him to the closest residence, Longbourne. Although he cannot move or speak, Darcy can hear everything being said around him - unbeknownst to all. This unique POV was what drew me to the book. Of course he discovers Elizabeth and Jane are most earnest and kind. It was LOVELY to have him hear Miss Bingley and her sister talk in a most mercenary way about him. (In this story, Darcy doesn’t know their true natures; he thinks they’re his friends). I did enjoy their set down.
Even though it was predictable and very vanilla, I enjoyed this one. The author chose the right spot to end her tale.
Content: sweet and squeaky clean.
I know
I know it’s serious.
Mr. Darcy is thrown from his horse and is a coma! He’s unknown to his rescuers, who bring him to the closest residence, Longbourne. Although he cannot move or speak, Darcy can hear everything being said around him - unbeknownst to all. This unique POV was what drew me to the book. Of course he discovers Elizabeth and Jane are most earnest and kind. It was LOVELY to have him hear Miss Bingley and her sister talk in a most mercenary way about him. (In this story, Darcy doesn’t know their true natures; he thinks they’re his friends). I did enjoy their set down.
Even though it was predictable and very vanilla, I enjoyed this one. The author chose the right spot to end her tale.
Content: sweet and squeaky clean.
February 21, 2018
An Odd but Lovely Situation
Loved this different Pride and Prejudice variation! The plot was original and entertaining. I was actually thrilled to read less of Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet arguing or yelling, but rather, enjoying a new path to love. Loved the comeuppance of the Snotty Bingley sisters lol. Wonderful book!!
Loved this different Pride and Prejudice variation! The plot was original and entertaining. I was actually thrilled to read less of Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet arguing or yelling, but rather, enjoying a new path to love. Loved the comeuppance of the Snotty Bingley sisters lol. Wonderful book!!
October 16, 2023
I have a fondness for stories in which Darcy is injured and learns a lot when he has to shut up perforce and just observe. This time he got thrown from his horse and convalesces at Longbourn. He is unable to move or speak and at first he can't see either, but he can hear and understand more than people realize at first. The doctor advises the Bennets to keep talking to him, in order to stimulate his brain. He ends up hearing a lot of tales and opinions he might not have heard otherwise, and learns to appreciate the kindness of the Bennet family and disdain the falseness of Bingley's sisters. His relationship with Elizabeth evolves pretty fast without any of the usual strife and acrimony. There are confrontations, sort of, with the Netherfield ladies, Wickham, Collins and Lady Catherine. Collins was particularly funny in his condescension, not realizing who Darcy was. Elizabeth, the Colonel and even Darcy's valet come to his defense.
I enjoyed this story. It's a quick read. It is all in Darcy's point of view, we get nothing of Elizabeth's thoughts or opinions except what Darcy hears. So I wanted a bit more of conversation in which she gets to say her side, and tell us what she loves about Darcy. It's clear what Darcy loves: Her kindness and wit and integrity. But for a large part of the story he is able to do very little so she has fewer chances to learn about his character.
At some point, Darcy and Elizabeth learn to communicate using a finger alphabet. This was a neat invention but I thought their conversations using it were a bit too wordy to sound realistic. They formulate long words, complete sentences and complex thoughts, and in my experience people find this sort of letter-by-letter communication to be so much slower than regular speech that they tend to resort to shortened expressions and keywords. And the person who is able to speak would be likely to try and speed it up by supplying guesses and questions, long before the mute person can get to the end of the utterance.
I enjoyed this story. It's a quick read. It is all in Darcy's point of view, we get nothing of Elizabeth's thoughts or opinions except what Darcy hears. So I wanted a bit more of conversation in which she gets to say her side, and tell us what she loves about Darcy. It's clear what Darcy loves: Her kindness and wit and integrity. But for a large part of the story he is able to do very little so she has fewer chances to learn about his character.
At some point, Darcy and Elizabeth learn to communicate using a finger alphabet. This was a neat invention but I thought their conversations using it were a bit too wordy to sound realistic. They formulate long words, complete sentences and complex thoughts, and in my experience people find this sort of letter-by-letter communication to be so much slower than regular speech that they tend to resort to shortened expressions and keywords. And the person who is able to speak would be likely to try and speed it up by supplying guesses and questions, long before the mute person can get to the end of the utterance.
February 19, 2018
This was a new and interesting premise although I wonder at the author's having Darcy and Elizabeth learning to communicate via sign language so quickly...impossible.
In a coma Darcy's sense of hearing has not disappeared as have most of his other senses. Since his accident happened near Longbourn that is where he is taken. There, despite initial objections from Mrs. Bennet, (after all no one knows who he is) the man becomes part of the household and is cared for around-the-clock. The doctor advises that someone keep talking to him so part of keeping his focus. The man will know he is attended to closely.
Thus Darcy learns to know the members of the Bennet family as well as acquaintances and friends who visit or sit with him, talk to him or "about him". He learns some very interesting facts about relationships in his circle. (I do agree that having the man considering Caroline Bingley for a wife was a stretch.) He quickly discerns the motives of those caring him.
I would have liked an expanded ending. When did he learn to talk again? An epilogue always pleases me. Did Darcy change in his attitude towards those beneath him as he promised himself? We know he is a good master but how does he treat the society of Meryton in the future?
This story reminded me of how in speaking to my own mother on her death bed I saw tears leak from her eyes as I shared thoughts of her relationship with her children. She was basically in a coma also...but hearing is the last sense to go, as we know.
In a coma Darcy's sense of hearing has not disappeared as have most of his other senses. Since his accident happened near Longbourn that is where he is taken. There, despite initial objections from Mrs. Bennet, (after all no one knows who he is) the man becomes part of the household and is cared for around-the-clock. The doctor advises that someone keep talking to him so part of keeping his focus. The man will know he is attended to closely.
Thus Darcy learns to know the members of the Bennet family as well as acquaintances and friends who visit or sit with him, talk to him or "about him". He learns some very interesting facts about relationships in his circle. (I do agree that having the man considering Caroline Bingley for a wife was a stretch.) He quickly discerns the motives of those caring him.
I would have liked an expanded ending. When did he learn to talk again? An epilogue always pleases me. Did Darcy change in his attitude towards those beneath him as he promised himself? We know he is a good master but how does he treat the society of Meryton in the future?
This story reminded me of how in speaking to my own mother on her death bed I saw tears leak from her eyes as I shared thoughts of her relationship with her children. She was basically in a coma also...but hearing is the last sense to go, as we know.
February 2, 2018
One has a lot of time to think and reflect if you are in a coma but can hear what everyone else is saying - whether they want you to or not. Darcy learns a lot about himself and patience while recovering from a fall near Longbourne. More than the traditional fall in love with your nurse storyline, this one features a transformation.
December 27, 2022
Really enjoyed it. Highly recommended. Very sympathetic Lizzy and Darcy, and lovely relationship and character development.
February 21, 2018
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Darcy has an accident on a horse and is found by the Bennet's. He is taken to Longbourn. The Bennet's take care of an unconscious Darcy. Darcy is unconscious but remains hearing of the conversations around him. Durning this unconscious time Darcy has a change of character.
Overall it was a good storyline, I felt left with unanswered questions at the end. I think the author could has given us an epilogue of in one year and five years would have been delightful and better.
Darcy has an accident on a horse and is found by the Bennet's. He is taken to Longbourn. The Bennet's take care of an unconscious Darcy. Darcy is unconscious but remains hearing of the conversations around him. Durning this unconscious time Darcy has a change of character.
Overall it was a good storyline, I felt left with unanswered questions at the end. I think the author could has given us an epilogue of in one year and five years would have been delightful and better.
February 14, 2022
A Sweet Variation
Reviewed in Canada on January 30, 2019
This is a variation that ended too quickly for me. I loved the story. Well done. Well situated for a sequel perhaps.
Reviewed in Canada on January 30, 2019
This is a variation that ended too quickly for me. I loved the story. Well done. Well situated for a sequel perhaps.
May 9, 2025
A very enjoyable and fun story. Darcy is injured and in a coma in the morning room of Longbourn. He's able to hear everything and everyone around him without them realizing it. This leads to some curious situations and many realizations for Darcy. And he's able to not just fall in love with Elizabeth but also to make her love him and gain her hand without uttering a single word. Maybe, the author had the better idea there. This author never fails to deliver amusement and entertainment in her stories.
February 4, 2018
A Very Different Variation
This is an interesting, and different P&P variation. Darcy has an accident at the beginning of the story, and while in a coma, can hear everything that is being said. It leads to changes in his understanding of himself and others. I found this a very enjoyable read that had both humour and happily ever afters.
This is an interesting, and different P&P variation. Darcy has an accident at the beginning of the story, and while in a coma, can hear everything that is being said. It leads to changes in his understanding of himself and others. I found this a very enjoyable read that had both humour and happily ever afters.
May 27, 2018
4.5⭐️ Things are not what they seem... be careful what you say to someone who is in a coma.
Wonderful written story. The author made it believable and did it rush the healing process. Enjoyed the candid conversations when people thought that Darcy couldn’t hear.
Wonderful written story. The author made it believable and did it rush the healing process. Enjoyed the candid conversations when people thought that Darcy couldn’t hear.
February 7, 2018
4.5 stars
I enjoyed this book very much and recommend you read fellow reviews from Leslie, Rose and Debbie. It was not 5 stars for me because I had too many questions at the end. Did he get his voice back? Did they love a normal happy life? I felt the ending was too abrupt but otherwise loved this unique tale.
I enjoyed this book very much and recommend you read fellow reviews from Leslie, Rose and Debbie. It was not 5 stars for me because I had too many questions at the end. Did he get his voice back? Did they love a normal happy life? I felt the ending was too abrupt but otherwise loved this unique tale.
March 7, 2018
This book could have been tedious but was written with good pacing. I loved it.
June 22, 2019
Absolutely excellent read! I believe ANY Price and Prejudice fan will love this story, or at least definitely enjoy it and be totally satisfied how Fitzwilliam Darcy had his epiphany in this story!
February 10, 2018
Sheridan Whiteside with a Coma and a Valet
Another variation wherein Darcy (not Whiteside) convaleses at Longbourn and falls in love with Lizzy along the way. Well written, funny in spots, Bingley almost grows a backbone, Caroline is Carolinian to the max, and Lizzy is brilliant, clever, compassionate and everything wonderful, etc.. I suppose the accident and recovery count as angst driven plotlines but there was little else beyond an abundance of eavesdropping that wasn't foreseeable, easily explained (in sign language, no less!) and speedily reconciled. There was ample reason for a fulfilling epilogue but sadly, that was neglected. A respectable rainy day read. 3.5 raised to 4 for creative use of italics.
Another variation wherein Darcy (not Whiteside) convaleses at Longbourn and falls in love with Lizzy along the way. Well written, funny in spots, Bingley almost grows a backbone, Caroline is Carolinian to the max, and Lizzy is brilliant, clever, compassionate and everything wonderful, etc.. I suppose the accident and recovery count as angst driven plotlines but there was little else beyond an abundance of eavesdropping that wasn't foreseeable, easily explained (in sign language, no less!) and speedily reconciled. There was ample reason for a fulfilling epilogue but sadly, that was neglected. A respectable rainy day read. 3.5 raised to 4 for creative use of italics.
August 8, 2019
What would happen if Darcy was in a coma?
Oh the things he could hear!!! Things that can help him get to know those he doesn’t know, or those he thought he knew!!! Learn about how others perceive his character, and be able to change if needed.
I liked this story, low conflict but still allowed for the characters to be on point. I would recommend this to all JAFFers.
Oh the things he could hear!!! Things that can help him get to know those he doesn’t know, or those he thought he knew!!! Learn about how others perceive his character, and be able to change if needed.
I liked this story, low conflict but still allowed for the characters to be on point. I would recommend this to all JAFFers.
February 27, 2022
Rather Silly
Required a major suspension of disbelief in order to go along with the storyline, which was challenging for me. The book was mildly entertaining so I went with it, but I also thought it was just ridiculous in places.
Required a major suspension of disbelief in order to go along with the storyline, which was challenging for me. The book was mildly entertaining so I went with it, but I also thought it was just ridiculous in places.
October 5, 2022
I loved this! My only complaint is I hate where it ended. I always want to see it through to the wedding at the very least & I expect an epilogue.
February 9, 2018
An Odd Situation: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
I have to admit that I was glad I stayed with this story beyond my first impressions. I almost stopped reading this story at the beginning when I thought this Darcy was an idiot - stupid and dimwitted - with absolutely nothing to recommend himself, because he was thinking of offering for Caroline Bingley! Luckily, he suffered a head injury from an accident and was in a coma at Longbourn the nearest house from the accident site. Even in his comatose state, he heard and understood everything going on around him. When Caroline and Mrs. Hurst's hateful words were spoken, Darcy wondered if it had always been so easy to fool him about those he considered " friends". I enjoyed that he conveniently fell asleep whenever Bingley's sisters appeared at Longbourn to visit. Throughout his slow recovery, he began to reflect on his personality and feelings especially about the Bennets. As he recovered and slowly began to regain the ability to stay awake longer, sit up more frequently, and eat food other than broth and gruel, Darcy's feelings with his gratitude towards Elizabeth developed into feelings of love. Speech was the last to return, and Elizabeth brought a book on signing. She and Darcy communicated in this method requiring her attendance whenever someone visited Darcy. The arrival of Collins precipitated his offer of marriage after listening to Collins' poorly delivered proposal, Elizabeth's refusal, and Collin' rebuttal against her refusal. That was when Darcy's voice loudly spoke that she would receive another offer of marriage. Down on his knees unable to stand up because of a cramp in his leg is where his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, found him. Chaos ensues, but Elizabeth handled everything and everybody and when reinforcements arrive, Richard and Georgiana, Lady Catherine and Collins are escorted to the door. When his voice finally returns enough to speak at some length, Darcy proceeds to set down Caroline Bingley and Mrs. Hurst regarding their spoken hateful slurs when they thought he couldn't hear. Wickham was also taken care of by Elizabeth and Darcy's valet, Beacham. During Bingley's ball at Netherfield, Darcy was able to dance one slow dance with his beautiful betrothed, Elizabeth. Both of ODC's were able to find their HEA at Longbourn.
I have to admit that I was glad I stayed with this story beyond my first impressions. I almost stopped reading this story at the beginning when I thought this Darcy was an idiot - stupid and dimwitted - with absolutely nothing to recommend himself, because he was thinking of offering for Caroline Bingley! Luckily, he suffered a head injury from an accident and was in a coma at Longbourn the nearest house from the accident site. Even in his comatose state, he heard and understood everything going on around him. When Caroline and Mrs. Hurst's hateful words were spoken, Darcy wondered if it had always been so easy to fool him about those he considered " friends". I enjoyed that he conveniently fell asleep whenever Bingley's sisters appeared at Longbourn to visit. Throughout his slow recovery, he began to reflect on his personality and feelings especially about the Bennets. As he recovered and slowly began to regain the ability to stay awake longer, sit up more frequently, and eat food other than broth and gruel, Darcy's feelings with his gratitude towards Elizabeth developed into feelings of love. Speech was the last to return, and Elizabeth brought a book on signing. She and Darcy communicated in this method requiring her attendance whenever someone visited Darcy. The arrival of Collins precipitated his offer of marriage after listening to Collins' poorly delivered proposal, Elizabeth's refusal, and Collin' rebuttal against her refusal. That was when Darcy's voice loudly spoke that she would receive another offer of marriage. Down on his knees unable to stand up because of a cramp in his leg is where his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, found him. Chaos ensues, but Elizabeth handled everything and everybody and when reinforcements arrive, Richard and Georgiana, Lady Catherine and Collins are escorted to the door. When his voice finally returns enough to speak at some length, Darcy proceeds to set down Caroline Bingley and Mrs. Hurst regarding their spoken hateful slurs when they thought he couldn't hear. Wickham was also taken care of by Elizabeth and Darcy's valet, Beacham. During Bingley's ball at Netherfield, Darcy was able to dance one slow dance with his beautiful betrothed, Elizabeth. Both of ODC's were able to find their HEA at Longbourn.
April 9, 2018
JAFF. It delivers a low angst arrival to our favorite couple getting together. Mr. Darcy gets thrown from his horse and is unconscious, but can still hear everything around him. He's at Longbourn and gets to know the cast of characters in a different light when they talk around/to him thinking he can't really hear but he can. Here he learns what a jerk he is, he sees the people of value, and who are jerks (aka Bingley's sisters). A clean variation. Nothing to wow about, but it definitely fit the bill of a light read. Less romance in it than you would expect. Worth reading on the PP recovery road because it's included in Kindle Unlimited, not really worth buying.
February 28, 2019
Disappointing.
Having read the reviews I bought this book but I found myself disappointed with it. It's okay but only just ... it lacks a certain something ... not sure what! I think perhaps a bit of sparkle so that you care about the characters which I found distinctly lacking. The ending is very abrupt too, I would have liked a bit more story at this point. Will never be rereading this book.
Having read the reviews I bought this book but I found myself disappointed with it. It's okay but only just ... it lacks a certain something ... not sure what! I think perhaps a bit of sparkle so that you care about the characters which I found distinctly lacking. The ending is very abrupt too, I would have liked a bit more story at this point. Will never be rereading this book.
July 20, 2020
This was a fun P&P variation. On the whole, I liked it.
On his way to Netherfield, Darcy is injured falling from his horse and is taken to Longbourn (the nearest house) where he meets the Bennets while convalescing. He overhears those around him, who speak openly to a man they assume is in a coma and he learns how others truly see him and what their real motivations are, and he learns the value of kindness above pretension and artifice.
There is very little conflict, but it is a sweet story.
The medical issues were the weakest part of this for me:
* The doctor tells everyone not to move Darcy at all (bed sores, hello!), and not to even remove his coat for two days in case it moves his concussed head (you can't keep his head still while someone removes the coat, or cut it off the man, so he can lie comfortably?).
* Darcy never sleeps (until he starts to recover after a week or two), not even for a few minutes, as he lies immobilised and able to hear and pay attention to everything around him. I understand needing him to be able to hear what was happening for the story, but why couldn't he fade in and out at pertinent moments? Why must he be completely conscious at all times?
* Darcy never needs to pee. Not once. He lies for weeks on a sofa in the morning room with no chamber pot and no ability to move his body even if there was one... Unless he only ever needs to pee during the 'washes' by his valet, and it is glossed over, which would be pretty convenient, as well as psychic by the valet to anticipate exactly when he needs to poop.
*Nobody thinks to bring a bed downstairs until about a month later, when Darcy is able to move again. Even in the 1800s they knew how to move a person from one surface to another while keeping the head still. The doctor would keep his head and neck in position, while others lift the patient from one surface to another. Done. But Darcy in this story is forced to sleep on an uncomfortable sofa for weeks... presumably peeing on it (see point above).
* Lastly, Darcy loses the ability to speak as a consequence of the severe brain injury, and instead expresses himself through sign language he and Elizabeth learn from a book, to such an extent that in only TWO DAYS he can sign words like awkward, embarrassed, inestimable, possibility, intimacy, realising, aspired. Darcy's long speeches in expert sign language were very unrealistic and pulled me out of the story.
Also his speech issues seemed at odds with what little I know about traumatic brain injury (admittedly not much), since people with trauma to the language area of the brain would also have difficulty understanding others, finding words to express themselves even in thought, and once they regain speech it can be slurred, slow and they often use incorrect / inappropriate words. Of all of these things, Darcy merely has no speech at all and then speaks a little slowly. No slurring, or struggling for words, no confusion, and obviously completely understanding everyone around him from the first moment of the accident.
Overall, this is a sweet, enjoyable story, with a few credibility issues and some overly simplistic villains, but it made me smile and was a quick read with no lagging places.
If you enjoyed this, I would also recommend Speechless by Jessie Lewis. It's a similar premise, but with none of the dodgy medical issues, and five-star emotional impact.
On his way to Netherfield, Darcy is injured falling from his horse and is taken to Longbourn (the nearest house) where he meets the Bennets while convalescing. He overhears those around him, who speak openly to a man they assume is in a coma and he learns how others truly see him and what their real motivations are, and he learns the value of kindness above pretension and artifice.
There is very little conflict, but it is a sweet story.
The medical issues were the weakest part of this for me:
* The doctor tells everyone not to move Darcy at all (bed sores, hello!), and not to even remove his coat for two days in case it moves his concussed head (you can't keep his head still while someone removes the coat, or cut it off the man, so he can lie comfortably?).
* Darcy never sleeps (until he starts to recover after a week or two), not even for a few minutes, as he lies immobilised and able to hear and pay attention to everything around him. I understand needing him to be able to hear what was happening for the story, but why couldn't he fade in and out at pertinent moments? Why must he be completely conscious at all times?
* Darcy never needs to pee. Not once. He lies for weeks on a sofa in the morning room with no chamber pot and no ability to move his body even if there was one... Unless he only ever needs to pee during the 'washes' by his valet, and it is glossed over, which would be pretty convenient, as well as psychic by the valet to anticipate exactly when he needs to poop.
*Nobody thinks to bring a bed downstairs until about a month later, when Darcy is able to move again. Even in the 1800s they knew how to move a person from one surface to another while keeping the head still. The doctor would keep his head and neck in position, while others lift the patient from one surface to another. Done. But Darcy in this story is forced to sleep on an uncomfortable sofa for weeks... presumably peeing on it (see point above).
* Lastly, Darcy loses the ability to speak as a consequence of the severe brain injury, and instead expresses himself through sign language he and Elizabeth learn from a book, to such an extent that in only TWO DAYS he can sign words like awkward, embarrassed, inestimable, possibility, intimacy, realising, aspired. Darcy's long speeches in expert sign language were very unrealistic and pulled me out of the story.
Also his speech issues seemed at odds with what little I know about traumatic brain injury (admittedly not much), since people with trauma to the language area of the brain would also have difficulty understanding others, finding words to express themselves even in thought, and once they regain speech it can be slurred, slow and they often use incorrect / inappropriate words. Of all of these things, Darcy merely has no speech at all and then speaks a little slowly. No slurring, or struggling for words, no confusion, and obviously completely understanding everyone around him from the first moment of the accident.
Overall, this is a sweet, enjoyable story, with a few credibility issues and some overly simplistic villains, but it made me smile and was a quick read with no lagging places.
If you enjoyed this, I would also recommend Speechless by Jessie Lewis. It's a similar premise, but with none of the dodgy medical issues, and five-star emotional impact.
February 6, 2018
I hadn't read a Pride and Prejudice variation in a while, but I have this quirky attraction to them, so I have a few lined up to read right now, and I'm glad I decided to try this one. I liked it a lot more than I expected to when I read the blurb.
This is a P&P variant that begins with Mr. Darcy riding from London to Netherfield a day earlier than he's expected. This is before the original story would have begun. He's never met the Bennets or even seen Netherfield. Along the way, very close to Longbourn, he encounters something unexpected on the road that he attempts to avoid, resulting in him being thrown from his horse and hitting his head.
As a result of his head injury, he's in a coma, but although he has no other sensation and can't move, he can hear everything that's going on around him. He's taken to Longbourn for care, because it's too dangerous to move him any farther, and at first no one knows who he is. The older Bennet sisters help nurse him. He's in this coma for a few days, and because the doctor has suggested that those caring for him should talk to him, he overhears a lot of different conversations between the Bennets, the Bingleys, his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam, his own valet, his doctor, and so on and so forth.
The story is told entirely from Mr. Darcy's point of view. Most of the original story's characters make appearances at his bedside or in the house, with the addition of a couple of new characters in the form of his valet and his doctor. The characters are indeed true to the original story, with the addition of something we never got to experience before, and that is some insight into the inscrutable Mr. Darcy himself. The author did a great job of surmising what confounded some of us about Mr. Darcy, and portraying some character growth as he realizes things about himself and how others perceive him, and also learns things about the people around him, including getting to know Elizabeth on her home turf. It was fascinating to read what went on inside his head.
The only quibble I had with the plot is that at first no one knew who he was, even his name, when I'm sure that in those days gentlemen carried calling cards everywhere with them. No mention was made of anyone searching his person for cards or a card case, and no reason was given for him not carrying them. Other than that, I found this to be a completely believable and well rounded variant of the story. I might have given it 5 stars if it had not had so many typographical errors, which I can forgive until they reach the point where they start to get annoying.
An Odd Situation indeed, but surprisingly good.
This is a P&P variant that begins with Mr. Darcy riding from London to Netherfield a day earlier than he's expected. This is before the original story would have begun. He's never met the Bennets or even seen Netherfield. Along the way, very close to Longbourn, he encounters something unexpected on the road that he attempts to avoid, resulting in him being thrown from his horse and hitting his head.
As a result of his head injury, he's in a coma, but although he has no other sensation and can't move, he can hear everything that's going on around him. He's taken to Longbourn for care, because it's too dangerous to move him any farther, and at first no one knows who he is. The older Bennet sisters help nurse him. He's in this coma for a few days, and because the doctor has suggested that those caring for him should talk to him, he overhears a lot of different conversations between the Bennets, the Bingleys, his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam, his own valet, his doctor, and so on and so forth.
The story is told entirely from Mr. Darcy's point of view. Most of the original story's characters make appearances at his bedside or in the house, with the addition of a couple of new characters in the form of his valet and his doctor. The characters are indeed true to the original story, with the addition of something we never got to experience before, and that is some insight into the inscrutable Mr. Darcy himself. The author did a great job of surmising what confounded some of us about Mr. Darcy, and portraying some character growth as he realizes things about himself and how others perceive him, and also learns things about the people around him, including getting to know Elizabeth on her home turf. It was fascinating to read what went on inside his head.
The only quibble I had with the plot is that at first no one knew who he was, even his name, when I'm sure that in those days gentlemen carried calling cards everywhere with them. No mention was made of anyone searching his person for cards or a card case, and no reason was given for him not carrying them. Other than that, I found this to be a completely believable and well rounded variant of the story. I might have given it 5 stars if it had not had so many typographical errors, which I can forgive until they reach the point where they start to get annoying.
An Odd Situation indeed, but surprisingly good.
December 20, 2025
Writing was ok, but not good.. This was completely from darcy pov, and it didn't exactly feel like him. Darcy is in coma, distressed about his recovery, and he is quickly thinking of Jane/Bingley drama or even Bennets manners in that situation? It isn't realistic he'd do so in the start. And whenever someone new comes, all they talk about initially is the bennets? Even Cloonel Fitzwilliam? Weird priorities. Felt like too much of thought process of Darcy went into bennets manners, Jane/Bingley etc as if he'd be thinking / reacting / prioritising the same things when he is in coma and fears dying. Felt author had polished this a bit, as there were lots of other positives in this. Really appreciated how slow and realistic Darcy's recovery was, the setbacks he faced, his frustrations with them etc. But at the same timr, rhe things people said to Darcy when he was in coma were way ooc for them to be saying that it sometimes took me out of the story.
Also, feel like, E&D took such a backstage after Darcy woke up. Elizabeth is barely there, and when she is there, all their conversations are just paraphrased. There is no development for Elizabeth's feelings, about how she went from seeing darcy merely as someone to take care to someone she loves. Collins, Lady Catherine honestly get more notice than E&D romance. Really disappointing in that area.
But still, it was mostly an ok read, although very unsatisfying as a romance
Also, feel like, E&D took such a backstage after Darcy woke up. Elizabeth is barely there, and when she is there, all their conversations are just paraphrased. There is no development for Elizabeth's feelings, about how she went from seeing darcy merely as someone to take care to someone she loves. Collins, Lady Catherine honestly get more notice than E&D romance. Really disappointing in that area.
But still, it was mostly an ok read, although very unsatisfying as a romance
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2025
3.75⭐️
This was a story told completely in Darcy's POV and the mode of that was very unique. Darcy falls into a type of coma where he is "locked in" in his brain and is able to hear everything that is being said around him while appearing unconscious. That gives him an insight into all of the usual characters in the OG Pride & Prejudice. I liked that this Darcy starts off being the pompous man that we know and love and slowly starts to loosen up and learn a bit about himself based on the conversations he hears and about how others view him. While I missed out on the Lizzy and Darcy conversations towards the start of the 2nd half of the book I was happy with the way their courtship progressed. My one major gripe is that we did not see an epilogue as I have become accustomed to reading one at the end of every variation. But as the book ended on a positive note I can get over the disappointment.
This was a story told completely in Darcy's POV and the mode of that was very unique. Darcy falls into a type of coma where he is "locked in" in his brain and is able to hear everything that is being said around him while appearing unconscious. That gives him an insight into all of the usual characters in the OG Pride & Prejudice. I liked that this Darcy starts off being the pompous man that we know and love and slowly starts to loosen up and learn a bit about himself based on the conversations he hears and about how others view him. While I missed out on the Lizzy and Darcy conversations towards the start of the 2nd half of the book I was happy with the way their courtship progressed. My one major gripe is that we did not see an epilogue as I have become accustomed to reading one at the end of every variation. But as the book ended on a positive note I can get over the disappointment.
February 18, 2018
Wow, just wow
I saw this story come up as recommended and thought I would try it out because it was available through KU. I’m glad I did.
The story is told from Mr. Darcy’s perspective after he is thrown from his horse and ends up in a coma. A forward thinking physician brings him to Longbourn (the closest residence) and is cared for by the Bennett’s. The physician requests that those caring for Mr. Darcy talk to him to try to pull him from his coma. All good so far, except Mr. Darcy can hear and understand everything that is said in his presence.
The reader gets a first hand account of Mr. Darcy’s growth from an arrogant man to the loving/caring Darcy we all love. The author does a great job with the storytelling and engaging the reader’s as well as providing perspectives from other characters.
I saw this story come up as recommended and thought I would try it out because it was available through KU. I’m glad I did.
The story is told from Mr. Darcy’s perspective after he is thrown from his horse and ends up in a coma. A forward thinking physician brings him to Longbourn (the closest residence) and is cared for by the Bennett’s. The physician requests that those caring for Mr. Darcy talk to him to try to pull him from his coma. All good so far, except Mr. Darcy can hear and understand everything that is said in his presence.
The reader gets a first hand account of Mr. Darcy’s growth from an arrogant man to the loving/caring Darcy we all love. The author does a great job with the storytelling and engaging the reader’s as well as providing perspectives from other characters.
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