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Wild Goose Chase: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth are off to Gretna Green. A dastardly scheme enacted by Miss Bingley sends them on a wild ride through England’s northern counties in pursuit of Lydia and Mr. Wickham. Accompanied by her relatives and pursued by his, they join a succession of carriages streaming along the busy road to the border. New friends are made along the way, as well as some unexpected choices. Mr. Darcy never imagined that he would help anybody to elope, but he learns that sometimes the circumstances justify drastic action. He is a willing accomplice to the marital extravaganza at the culmination of their journey even though he would never choose to marry over the anvil. Would he? Confusion and misunderstandings abound in this comic romp.
175 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 29, 2018
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February 20, 2020
I have found out that there ain't no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them. ~ Mark Twain
My GoodReads book list has more than 1200 entries – and all but about 100 are JAFF stories read within the last 3 years. With so much JAFF, it always feels great to find a totally new idea!
Although this begins with a familiar premise – Elizabeth visits Pemberley and encounters Darcy – it soon takes off in its own direction.
Darcy has invited the Gardiners and Elizabeth to reside at Pemberley during their visit to Derbyshire, throwing the Bingley shrew – uh, the delightful Caroline – into even greater panic. She must eliminate her rival. How to convince the intruders to return to Hertfordshire? Of course, a plea to Elizabeth from Jane! What could motivate an immediate return? What if Elizabeth believed her youngest sister had eloped? What was the name of that officer Darcy didn’t like?
A forged letter is delivered; a quick trip home is planned. But wait, if Lydia and Wickham are heading to Gretna Green, there is a good chance the pursuers could reach Scotland before the runaways! Travel plans change. Darcy will accompany the travelers on their dash north.
This isn’t turning out the way the Bingley sisters planned! And now their brother has gone to Hertfordshire to console Jane Bennet! They must follow him at once to stop his proposal!
But wait – why is Lady Catherine involved? And the Colonel? And Georgiana?
The fool’s errand creates a stream of travelers heading north – and a pursuit heading south.
The most important trip you may take in life is meeting people halfway. ~ Henry Boye
On the way to stop Lydia and Wickham, our travelers encounter other elopers. Should they offer help? Or should they aid other pursuers? As the guardian of an almost-eloper, will Darcy's sympathies lie with the pursuers or the pursuees?
Most important of all – how many marriages will happen “over the anvil” – and will there be a Darcy marriage?
Oh, and what about Lydia and Wickham? Was Caroline clairvoyant? Is Wickham’s conscience clear? Did they actually elope?
Chortle-worthy all the way to Scotland!
Ya Gotta Get This One!
Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime. ~ Mark Twain
My GoodReads book list has more than 1200 entries – and all but about 100 are JAFF stories read within the last 3 years. With so much JAFF, it always feels great to find a totally new idea!
Although this begins with a familiar premise – Elizabeth visits Pemberley and encounters Darcy – it soon takes off in its own direction.
Darcy has invited the Gardiners and Elizabeth to reside at Pemberley during their visit to Derbyshire, throwing the Bingley shrew – uh, the delightful Caroline – into even greater panic. She must eliminate her rival. How to convince the intruders to return to Hertfordshire? Of course, a plea to Elizabeth from Jane! What could motivate an immediate return? What if Elizabeth believed her youngest sister had eloped? What was the name of that officer Darcy didn’t like?
A forged letter is delivered; a quick trip home is planned. But wait, if Lydia and Wickham are heading to Gretna Green, there is a good chance the pursuers could reach Scotland before the runaways! Travel plans change. Darcy will accompany the travelers on their dash north.
This isn’t turning out the way the Bingley sisters planned! And now their brother has gone to Hertfordshire to console Jane Bennet! They must follow him at once to stop his proposal!
But wait – why is Lady Catherine involved? And the Colonel? And Georgiana?
The fool’s errand creates a stream of travelers heading north – and a pursuit heading south.
The most important trip you may take in life is meeting people halfway. ~ Henry Boye
On the way to stop Lydia and Wickham, our travelers encounter other elopers. Should they offer help? Or should they aid other pursuers? As the guardian of an almost-eloper, will Darcy's sympathies lie with the pursuers or the pursuees?
Most important of all – how many marriages will happen “over the anvil” – and will there be a Darcy marriage?
Oh, and what about Lydia and Wickham? Was Caroline clairvoyant? Is Wickham’s conscience clear? Did they actually elope?
Chortle-worthy all the way to Scotland!
Ya Gotta Get This One!
Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime. ~ Mark Twain
August 4, 2018
This is just what a P&P what if should be; clean, sweet, funny and exciting. We begin with Darcy discovering the Gardiners & Miss Elizabeth touring Pemberley. Soon an invitation to say is given and accepted, needless to say Miss Bingley is most put out. This is Caro at her most scheming (or most psychic) and has ODC and the Gardiners rushing off to Gretna Green hoping to intercept Lydia and Wickham! On the way they make new friends and have several adventures. Eventually Lady Catherine, Col. Fitzwilliam and Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley join into the chase.
This story is clever and heartwarming. And Caro gets her comeuppance
This story is clever and heartwarming. And Caro gets her comeuppance
August 4, 2018
This is a cute bit of inspired goofiness in the Pride and Prejudice universe. Everyone is rushing off to somewhere, thanks to a letter forged to Elizabeth by Caroline Bingley supposedly written by Jane, begging that Elizabeth come to Longbourn immediately because Lydia has eloped with Mr. Wickham.
The Gardiners and Elizabeth are staying at Pemberley, having been invited by Mr. Darcy when he discovered them touring the estate, and Caroline is furious at the interloper and intent on driving her away. Instead of getting rid of Elizabeth and making Darcy and Charles disgusted with all things Bennet, Caroline's letter sets off a Keystone Cops-type series of events.
It does begin with the Gardiners and Elizabeth immediately making plans to leave but, instead of Longbourn, their destination becomes Gretna Green. (I hate to interject logic in such a fluffy story, but their goal is supposedly to ensure that Wickham follow through and actually marry Lydia so the Bennet sisters aren't ruined. Why do they think Wickham would actually take Lydia all the way to Gretna Green if he DOESN'T plan to marry her? They can't deduce that his destination would be someplace to hide?)
Bingley grabs a curricle so HE can go to Longbourn and offer his support to the Bennets--particularly Jane. Inspired by Bingley's determination, Darcy joins the chase to Gretna Green, knowing the value of both his money and his experience dealing with Wickham to the success of their mission.
Caroline and her sister Louisa are appalled at the turn of events, and they try to give chase after Charles to prevent him from proposing to Jane. I'll just say this decision is as successful as the one they made to forge Elizabeth's letter.
There are still more vehicles that join the chase to Gretna Green. But that's not all. The adventure grows to include other eloping couples encountered on the road. By the time everyone gets to the smithy and the anvil, the story has become truly ridiculous...but who cares? Good triumphs, and evil gets its just desserts.
I dare you to finish it without a huge grin on your face. It may not be Shakespeare, but it's sure fun to read.
The Gardiners and Elizabeth are staying at Pemberley, having been invited by Mr. Darcy when he discovered them touring the estate, and Caroline is furious at the interloper and intent on driving her away. Instead of getting rid of Elizabeth and making Darcy and Charles disgusted with all things Bennet, Caroline's letter sets off a Keystone Cops-type series of events.
It does begin with the Gardiners and Elizabeth immediately making plans to leave but, instead of Longbourn, their destination becomes Gretna Green. (I hate to interject logic in such a fluffy story, but their goal is supposedly to ensure that Wickham follow through and actually marry Lydia so the Bennet sisters aren't ruined. Why do they think Wickham would actually take Lydia all the way to Gretna Green if he DOESN'T plan to marry her? They can't deduce that his destination would be someplace to hide?)
Bingley grabs a curricle so HE can go to Longbourn and offer his support to the Bennets--particularly Jane. Inspired by Bingley's determination, Darcy joins the chase to Gretna Green, knowing the value of both his money and his experience dealing with Wickham to the success of their mission.
Caroline and her sister Louisa are appalled at the turn of events, and they try to give chase after Charles to prevent him from proposing to Jane. I'll just say this decision is as successful as the one they made to forge Elizabeth's letter.
There are still more vehicles that join the chase to Gretna Green. But that's not all. The adventure grows to include other eloping couples encountered on the road. By the time everyone gets to the smithy and the anvil, the story has become truly ridiculous...but who cares? Good triumphs, and evil gets its just desserts.
I dare you to finish it without a huge grin on your face. It may not be Shakespeare, but it's sure fun to read.
August 3, 2018
This Pride and Prejudice variation starts when Darcy discovers Elizabeth touring Pemberley. Caroline, in her attempt to prove that the Bennet family is undesirable, sends a forged letter to Elizabeth from Jane about Lydia eloping. This letter sets off a chain of events and a wild goose chase. Everyone is traveling to either start, stop, or communicate something followed by many happily ever afters.
This was a great story!
This was a great story!
August 26, 2018
A Charming Story
This is a delightful, sweet read. Miss Bingley sets of a series of events that she could never have foreseen. This book is full of humour and lightness. There are several new characters who are wonderful additions. It is a delightful story that I will read again and again.
This is a delightful, sweet read. Miss Bingley sets of a series of events that she could never have foreseen. This book is full of humour and lightness. There are several new characters who are wonderful additions. It is a delightful story that I will read again and again.
January 3, 2022
Original premiss but flatly told.
Synopsis:
Darcy is eavesdropping on Reynolds giving the Pemberley tour to the Gardiners and Lizzy, wrestling on whether or not to make his presence known and reacquaint himself with Miss Elizabeth. He does and things are looking up until the letter of Lydia's ruin is received. Here Darcy decides to help them give chase to Gretna Green, and Bingley decides to go offer support to Miss Bennet at Longbourn.
But here is where things get spicy! The letter that described Lydia's ruin is but a prophetic facade, a ploy by the hand of Miss Bingley to get the Miss Bennet’s away from Pemberley and her brother once and for all, the brilliantly backfires.
This letter part was credibly done and the very best aspect of the story, I could totally picture Caro carrying out such a ploy.
The story then veers into a narrative rat race, jumping from several characters racing to stop or aide elopements, including several original characters, and culminating in a final showdown at Gretna Green.
The Brass Tacks:
➭2.5
I agree with a reviewer who said that ODC were like background characters in their own story, not to mention fairly OOC. There was a lot of unnecessary dialogue exchanges, and they were much longer than necessary. On the flip side of that, there was a lot of summarized interactions I wish had been dialogued- vexing. The book is hard to picture due to the writing being dry and the characters wooden, in part due to the rareness of action indicator tags in dialogue. I suppose it could be classified as amusing but it's laugh out loud, 'Ha Ha!' funny, more in regards to its air.
All in all great concept, poor execution. If you take it for it is, a cute farcical tale with a focus on an ensemble cast, it is up to muster, but hardly a Pride and Prejudice JAFF.
꙳ Spice Scale rating: Belle Pepper Chaste 🌶 5 ꙳
Synopsis:
Darcy is eavesdropping on Reynolds giving the Pemberley tour to the Gardiners and Lizzy, wrestling on whether or not to make his presence known and reacquaint himself with Miss Elizabeth. He does and things are looking up until the letter of Lydia's ruin is received. Here Darcy decides to help them give chase to Gretna Green, and Bingley decides to go offer support to Miss Bennet at Longbourn.
But here is where things get spicy! The letter that described Lydia's ruin is but a prophetic facade, a ploy by the hand of Miss Bingley to get the Miss Bennet’s away from Pemberley and her brother once and for all, the brilliantly backfires.
This letter part was credibly done and the very best aspect of the story, I could totally picture Caro carrying out such a ploy.
The story then veers into a narrative rat race, jumping from several characters racing to stop or aide elopements, including several original characters, and culminating in a final showdown at Gretna Green.
The Brass Tacks:
➭2.5
I agree with a reviewer who said that ODC were like background characters in their own story, not to mention fairly OOC. There was a lot of unnecessary dialogue exchanges, and they were much longer than necessary. On the flip side of that, there was a lot of summarized interactions I wish had been dialogued- vexing. The book is hard to picture due to the writing being dry and the characters wooden, in part due to the rareness of action indicator tags in dialogue. I suppose it could be classified as amusing but it's laugh out loud, 'Ha Ha!' funny, more in regards to its air.
All in all great concept, poor execution. If you take it for it is, a cute farcical tale with a focus on an ensemble cast, it is up to muster, but hardly a Pride and Prejudice JAFF.
꙳ Spice Scale rating: Belle Pepper Chaste 🌶 5 ꙳
August 7, 2018
This book was all pleasure and no pain.
Light and airy despite the dire circumstances. Usually, a light and airy read does not reach 5* hights for me but this one certainly did. Kept me smirking and snickering throughout and the banter was exquisitely written.
Entering at Elizabeth's visit to Pemberley with the Gardiner's.
I have not come across Darcy eavesdropping on Elizabeth and the Gardiner's when Mrs Reynolds gave them the house-tour, before... He eventually invited them to stay at Pemberley, to Georgiana's delight and the chagrin of miss Bingley.
When the letter from Jane arrived (with an unexpected twist), they agreed to give chase to the elopers.
Bingley on the other hand, decided to rush off to Hertfordshire to comfort Jane with his sisters hot on his heels to prevent him from doing so.
Lady Catherine paid an uninvited visit to Pemberley and miss Bingley gave her the wrong impression of who was eloping. Then the Colonel was off to reach Gretna Green too warn Darcy of his aunts intentions. Add several other eloping couples, stranded and in need of rescue along the way, made a hilariously entertaining read.
A chaste read without even a kiss. Would have liked a kiss but as it was not to be had, I am quite content with what was...
Heartily recommend this book!
Light and airy despite the dire circumstances. Usually, a light and airy read does not reach 5* hights for me but this one certainly did. Kept me smirking and snickering throughout and the banter was exquisitely written.
Entering at Elizabeth's visit to Pemberley with the Gardiner's.
I have not come across Darcy eavesdropping on Elizabeth and the Gardiner's when Mrs Reynolds gave them the house-tour, before... He eventually invited them to stay at Pemberley, to Georgiana's delight and the chagrin of miss Bingley.
When the letter from Jane arrived (with an unexpected twist), they agreed to give chase to the elopers.
Bingley on the other hand, decided to rush off to Hertfordshire to comfort Jane with his sisters hot on his heels to prevent him from doing so.
Lady Catherine paid an uninvited visit to Pemberley and miss Bingley gave her the wrong impression of who was eloping. Then the Colonel was off to reach Gretna Green too warn Darcy of his aunts intentions. Add several other eloping couples, stranded and in need of rescue along the way, made a hilariously entertaining read.
A chaste read without even a kiss. Would have liked a kiss but as it was not to be had, I am quite content with what was...
Heartily recommend this book!
August 5, 2018
The story description is perfectly complete in informing us, the readers, as to the premise of this story.
A wild and varied procession on the way to Gretna Green includes some intending to marry and others also intending to prevent such and then even an older couple whose elopement plans 25 years ago were prevented and for the romantic notion of completing those plans in their autumn years are now on to Gretna Green.
This story has many a laughable moment, and others of irony. Caroline Bingley's journey is not to Gretna Green but she has well earned all the side trips and even those in reverse as she attempts to again thwart her brother's plan to travel to Longbourn to be at Jane's side and to offer comfort, first, and maybe an offer of a second sort of felicity.
Elizabeth's and Darcy's being together but accompanied in another vehicle by "chaperones" leads to assumptions by strangers they meet and by persons known to them from Meryton who unknown to ODC pass them by on the road. What must they think?
Yes, this is rather a comedy of errors, I will agree. It certainly kept my focus wondering what else was going to go wrong and how it would all come together in the end.
A wild and varied procession on the way to Gretna Green includes some intending to marry and others also intending to prevent such and then even an older couple whose elopement plans 25 years ago were prevented and for the romantic notion of completing those plans in their autumn years are now on to Gretna Green.
This story has many a laughable moment, and others of irony. Caroline Bingley's journey is not to Gretna Green but she has well earned all the side trips and even those in reverse as she attempts to again thwart her brother's plan to travel to Longbourn to be at Jane's side and to offer comfort, first, and maybe an offer of a second sort of felicity.
Elizabeth's and Darcy's being together but accompanied in another vehicle by "chaperones" leads to assumptions by strangers they meet and by persons known to them from Meryton who unknown to ODC pass them by on the road. What must they think?
Yes, this is rather a comedy of errors, I will agree. It certainly kept my focus wondering what else was going to go wrong and how it would all come together in the end.
August 5, 2018
ODC In a Pilgrim’s Progress to Gretna Green
Caroline Bingley tried to get rid of Elizabeth Bennet and the Gardiners who were staying at Pemberley and drawing Darcy’s attention away from her (which she would not have had anyway. She and Louisa forged a note and made it appear to be from Jane requesting Lizzy and her aunt and uncle to go home because Lydia had eloped with Wickham before such an event happened, so it was not true. Lizzy and the Gardiners decided to go to Gretna Green to meet them, and Darcy decided to go with them while Bingley went to Netherfield to ask for Jane’s hand in marriage. This was not at all what Caroline had in mind so she and Louisa tried to follow to stop Bingley. Georgiana who figured out the truth tried to slow them down, which was easy to do when Caroline’s snobbery and high handed manner alienated everyone. Meanwhile Lizzy, Darcy, and the Gardiners befriended several couples on the way to Gretna Green while Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley set out to tell them the truth. Col. Fitzwilliam set out to warn them of Lady Catherine’s pursuit, as she thought they were eloping.
This is an amusing tale with Lady Catherine and other pursuers of eloping couples gong after them. It was brilliantly written and amusing. The villains cause unintended consequences. What happens to our dear couple as they grow in love and understanding of one another while helping others. You must read this. There’s great word pictures. This is another movie worthy book. I loved it and could not put it down.
Caroline Bingley tried to get rid of Elizabeth Bennet and the Gardiners who were staying at Pemberley and drawing Darcy’s attention away from her (which she would not have had anyway. She and Louisa forged a note and made it appear to be from Jane requesting Lizzy and her aunt and uncle to go home because Lydia had eloped with Wickham before such an event happened, so it was not true. Lizzy and the Gardiners decided to go to Gretna Green to meet them, and Darcy decided to go with them while Bingley went to Netherfield to ask for Jane’s hand in marriage. This was not at all what Caroline had in mind so she and Louisa tried to follow to stop Bingley. Georgiana who figured out the truth tried to slow them down, which was easy to do when Caroline’s snobbery and high handed manner alienated everyone. Meanwhile Lizzy, Darcy, and the Gardiners befriended several couples on the way to Gretna Green while Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley set out to tell them the truth. Col. Fitzwilliam set out to warn them of Lady Catherine’s pursuit, as she thought they were eloping.
This is an amusing tale with Lady Catherine and other pursuers of eloping couples gong after them. It was brilliantly written and amusing. The villains cause unintended consequences. What happens to our dear couple as they grow in love and understanding of one another while helping others. You must read this. There’s great word pictures. This is another movie worthy book. I loved it and could not put it down.
January 5, 2019
The plot is as outlandish as her other work that I've read (in which Darcy is a suspect for a murder) - Darcy and Elizabeth chase Lydia and Wickham through Gretna Green and in the process fall in love. However to make this believable, author built scenario whereby Elizabeth initially leaves with her uncle and aunt and Darcy joins them in the quest. Thus the question of propriety and chaperon etc is solved. I mean the author cleverly digresses from original plot still trying to reflect the regency society and lifestyle. Her style of writing is enjoyable. I personally do not prefer sex or sleaze in regency romances because it feels absolutely out of character based on all the original works I've read. I like the author (her 2 works that I have read) for maintaining this, maintaining the language as well as making her digressions from the plot seem palatable and plausible. So I felt it deserved 3.5 stars rounded off to 4 on Goodreads.
August 6, 2018
This is a really funny and different read. When Elizabeth and the Gardiner's visit Pemberley, they meet with Darcy who invites them stay... Miss Bingley is quickly thinking of ways to get rid of these interlopers so decides to forge a latter to Elizabeth from Jane to say Lydia has eloped with Wickham and they are on their way to Gretna Green and she is needed at home. This I'll considered course of action starts a chain of events and misunderstandings she did not predict!
It's difficult to more without revealing the whole plot but let's just say our favourite characters end up chasing each other all over the countryside!
This book had me in stitches at times, the misunderstandings were hilarious. I was a bit sorry not to see Caroline getting her comeuppance and I thought the actual getting to Gretna Green was a bit drawn out in places. However, all in all this book was really good fun and a relatively short read so definitely worth a read!
It's difficult to more without revealing the whole plot but let's just say our favourite characters end up chasing each other all over the countryside!
This book had me in stitches at times, the misunderstandings were hilarious. I was a bit sorry not to see Caroline getting her comeuppance and I thought the actual getting to Gretna Green was a bit drawn out in places. However, all in all this book was really good fun and a relatively short read so definitely worth a read!
September 26, 2018
Highly amusing, poorly edited
The storyline might have been far fetched, but the characters and dialogue were wonderful. I would have given more stars, but I was forced to reread several portions to clarify who was speaking or to whom they were referring. Missed words were another stumbling block. This author has great potential, but should seriously consider investing in an editor.
The storyline might have been far fetched, but the characters and dialogue were wonderful. I would have given more stars, but I was forced to reread several portions to clarify who was speaking or to whom they were referring. Missed words were another stumbling block. This author has great potential, but should seriously consider investing in an editor.
November 4, 2022
Such a fun romp!
Miss Bingley is enraged when she finds Miss Elizabeth at Pemberley and she decides to forge a letter to force her to leave. But nothing goes according to her plans. I adored this story that has Darcy assisting with several elopements. So funny with so many twists and turns! I would love to see this as a regency romcom.
Miss Bingley is enraged when she finds Miss Elizabeth at Pemberley and she decides to forge a letter to force her to leave. But nothing goes according to her plans. I adored this story that has Darcy assisting with several elopements. So funny with so many twists and turns! I would love to see this as a regency romcom.
March 11, 2022
A delightful romp.
Amazon rating 5* Caroline Bingley's dastardly scheme leads to unintended consequences, resulting in many carriages chasing each other on the way to Gretna Green. There are many HEAs, including a few surprises. This is a fun read, especially for JAFF fans. I'm happy to recommend this book.
Amazon rating 5* Caroline Bingley's dastardly scheme leads to unintended consequences, resulting in many carriages chasing each other on the way to Gretna Green. There are many HEAs, including a few surprises. This is a fun read, especially for JAFF fans. I'm happy to recommend this book.
December 21, 2018
Wild Goose Chase: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
This story was one wild ride! From the moment delusional Caroline Bingley wrote her wicked letter trying to ruin the Bennet family, and the various modes of conveyance left Pemberley, it became a race to Gretna Green. Except for Bingley, who raced to Longbourn for Jane. Unable to stop Darcy from going north, Caroline and the Hursts follow Bingley to stop him from offering for Jane. Unbeknownst to them, Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley have told the postilion to take the most convoluted, indirect route to get to Hertfordshire. Meanwhile, on the road north, ODC and the Gardiners meet several other couples that need their help traveling to Gretna Green. Adding to the caravan heading north, Colonel Fitzwilliam (aiding Darcy), Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley (they know the letter sent was a hoax), and Lady Catherine (she thinks Darcy and Elizabeth are eloping) are trying to catch the couple trying to save Elizabeth's wayward sister from Wickham's perfidy. Picking up one more gentleman going to Gretna Green along the way, he helps the couples avoid their relatives and sneaks them in the back way to the blacksmith. After the wild dash north, the older couple that tried to elope twenty-five years ago and failed, romantically achieved their HEA and treated all the newly married couples to a fantastic celebration. When the newly married couple return to Longbourn, they find out that Lydia's real elopement managed to be stopped by Mr. Bennet's observation of Kitty's response to the supposed hoax. ODC marry a second time saying their vows in front of family and friends and travel to Cornwall for their second wedding trip, figuring they've been from one end of the country to the other. Caroline's punishment - she's no longer invited to any of the homes owned by the Darcys or the Bingleys. And poor Lady Catherine is trying to figure out why everyone is laughing at her. Darcy from the moment he greets Elizabeth and the Gardiners at Pemberley to the trip north towards Gretna Green and helping the young couples is worth the read to see the change from his first visit to Meryton.
This story was one wild ride! From the moment delusional Caroline Bingley wrote her wicked letter trying to ruin the Bennet family, and the various modes of conveyance left Pemberley, it became a race to Gretna Green. Except for Bingley, who raced to Longbourn for Jane. Unable to stop Darcy from going north, Caroline and the Hursts follow Bingley to stop him from offering for Jane. Unbeknownst to them, Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley have told the postilion to take the most convoluted, indirect route to get to Hertfordshire. Meanwhile, on the road north, ODC and the Gardiners meet several other couples that need their help traveling to Gretna Green. Adding to the caravan heading north, Colonel Fitzwilliam (aiding Darcy), Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley (they know the letter sent was a hoax), and Lady Catherine (she thinks Darcy and Elizabeth are eloping) are trying to catch the couple trying to save Elizabeth's wayward sister from Wickham's perfidy. Picking up one more gentleman going to Gretna Green along the way, he helps the couples avoid their relatives and sneaks them in the back way to the blacksmith. After the wild dash north, the older couple that tried to elope twenty-five years ago and failed, romantically achieved their HEA and treated all the newly married couples to a fantastic celebration. When the newly married couple return to Longbourn, they find out that Lydia's real elopement managed to be stopped by Mr. Bennet's observation of Kitty's response to the supposed hoax. ODC marry a second time saying their vows in front of family and friends and travel to Cornwall for their second wedding trip, figuring they've been from one end of the country to the other. Caroline's punishment - she's no longer invited to any of the homes owned by the Darcys or the Bingleys. And poor Lady Catherine is trying to figure out why everyone is laughing at her. Darcy from the moment he greets Elizabeth and the Gardiners at Pemberley to the trip north towards Gretna Green and helping the young couples is worth the read to see the change from his first visit to Meryton.
April 11, 2023
Quite a good read
This story is unique and cleverly put together with a great deal of humour. Miss Bingley is at it again when trying to separate our two favorite couples with what she thinks is another one of her brilliant plans. How much will her machinations backfire if she is exposed as the "mastermind" behind the plot?
This story is unique and cleverly put together with a great deal of humour. Miss Bingley is at it again when trying to separate our two favorite couples with what she thinks is another one of her brilliant plans. How much will her machinations backfire if she is exposed as the "mastermind" behind the plot?
August 13, 2022
HISTERICAL
Excellent story ...well done I laughed histerically....the story arc was well done ..."loved the blacksmith sciene" I totally reccomend it
Excellent story ...well done I laughed histerically....the story arc was well done ..."loved the blacksmith sciene" I totally reccomend it
January 24, 2024
3.5* rounded up for such a fun plot
This is a quick, fun read with a cheeky plot. There are undoubtedly errors in the timings of transport in the Regency era but the fun far outweighs the inconsistencies.
This is a quick, fun read with a cheeky plot. There are undoubtedly errors in the timings of transport in the Regency era but the fun far outweighs the inconsistencies.
August 2, 2018
Funny, short, cute
I love this book. An excellent and short read that is very funny and tidy in it's dealings with all know characters while sprinkling in some new. Nothing is really out of line with the original characterization but this is out of cannon starting in Lambton.
A cup of tea and a good book is an excellent diversion for an afternoon. Enjoy!
I love this book. An excellent and short read that is very funny and tidy in it's dealings with all know characters while sprinkling in some new. Nothing is really out of line with the original characterization but this is out of cannon starting in Lambton.
A cup of tea and a good book is an excellent diversion for an afternoon. Enjoy!
August 4, 2018
Awesome!
A funny and original plot! Sophie Lynbrook has done it again. I look forward to her next book exclamation mark.
A funny and original plot! Sophie Lynbrook has done it again. I look forward to her next book exclamation mark.
August 6, 2018
4.5 rounded up for ingenuity of plot. This was such a fun wild ride. I agree with Rose's comments to read her review. This was just barrels of fun. Could not stop reading! If you like JAFF this is a fun one to review. was a pretty quick read. Does have some grammatical errors.
March 9, 2021
Loved it I
Like the new Darcy, helping people and lizzy was really interesting. Glad Huntley took a positive stand against his terrible sisters. Glad Wickham got caught, lady Catherine was crazy. Very good book very humorous in places.
Like the new Darcy, helping people and lizzy was really interesting. Glad Huntley took a positive stand against his terrible sisters. Glad Wickham got caught, lady Catherine was crazy. Very good book very humorous in places.
October 13, 2018
Cute
Very lighthearted, but utimately forgettable. I expected it to be a lot funnier than it actually turned out to be.
Very lighthearted, but utimately forgettable. I expected it to be a lot funnier than it actually turned out to be.
November 4, 2022
A very fun and funny romp. Highly recommend.
January 11, 2024
Wild Goose Chase
What a delightful, wild ride this story was. And to think Caroline Bingley started the wild chase all by herself with her evil malice intent to destroy Darcy’s love for Elizabeth Bennet and her brother’s love for Jane Bennet. Her gambit totally backfired. The great northern chase to Gretna Green to overtake Wickham and Lydia starts with the Darcy carriage carrying the Gardiners, Elizabeth, and himself to make sure the wedding takes place. Along the way they help several other couples: one escape a money grabbing uncle and a stepfather that has worked his stepdaughter ragged. Then they come upon an older couple who tried to elope years ago but were stopped. He never married, but she was forced to do her parents’ bidding. Now, twenty-five years later they decide it was their turn at happiness. George and Margery were a hoot. He made his wealth and was willing to share with the unfortunate young people that crossed their path this day. Also hot on their heels was Lady Catherine de Bourgh who was going to stop her wayward nephew who by the way was not eloping. Colonel Fitzwilliam joined in the trek to pass his aunt’s carriage to warn Darcy. The last man they helped was by himself and when questioned on why he was on his way to Scotland, he replied to get married. But you haven’t a lass! No she’s already there as we live in Gretna Green. Laugh had by all traveling north. He helps the couples sneak in the back way to the blacksmith’s shop to avoid the uncle and stepfather and in the confusion, Elizabeth and Darcy are married over the anvil much to Lady Catherine’s horror. She’s led out by the Scottish young man, seen by one of Elizabeth’s Mertyon’s neighbors and the rumors swirl about her elopement with a younger man. Even though the original group was reacting to Caroline’s ill conceived hoax, Lydia did try to run off with Wickham, but was inadvertently caught by her father. Georgiana and Mrs Annesley also follow to tell the group that Caroline wrote the letter to bring pain to the Bennets. The group enjoy time at the
Lake Region as they head towards London and Longbourn. The Hursts and Caroline never get there, because Darcy’s men have taken the scenic route all over England except heading to Hertfordshire. Without checking a map of England, I’m not sure how far apart Herefordshire is from Hertfordshire, but that was one of the many shires gone through before she gave up. Great caper as many wild goose chases were taking place during the story.
What a delightful, wild ride this story was. And to think Caroline Bingley started the wild chase all by herself with her evil malice intent to destroy Darcy’s love for Elizabeth Bennet and her brother’s love for Jane Bennet. Her gambit totally backfired. The great northern chase to Gretna Green to overtake Wickham and Lydia starts with the Darcy carriage carrying the Gardiners, Elizabeth, and himself to make sure the wedding takes place. Along the way they help several other couples: one escape a money grabbing uncle and a stepfather that has worked his stepdaughter ragged. Then they come upon an older couple who tried to elope years ago but were stopped. He never married, but she was forced to do her parents’ bidding. Now, twenty-five years later they decide it was their turn at happiness. George and Margery were a hoot. He made his wealth and was willing to share with the unfortunate young people that crossed their path this day. Also hot on their heels was Lady Catherine de Bourgh who was going to stop her wayward nephew who by the way was not eloping. Colonel Fitzwilliam joined in the trek to pass his aunt’s carriage to warn Darcy. The last man they helped was by himself and when questioned on why he was on his way to Scotland, he replied to get married. But you haven’t a lass! No she’s already there as we live in Gretna Green. Laugh had by all traveling north. He helps the couples sneak in the back way to the blacksmith’s shop to avoid the uncle and stepfather and in the confusion, Elizabeth and Darcy are married over the anvil much to Lady Catherine’s horror. She’s led out by the Scottish young man, seen by one of Elizabeth’s Mertyon’s neighbors and the rumors swirl about her elopement with a younger man. Even though the original group was reacting to Caroline’s ill conceived hoax, Lydia did try to run off with Wickham, but was inadvertently caught by her father. Georgiana and Mrs Annesley also follow to tell the group that Caroline wrote the letter to bring pain to the Bennets. The group enjoy time at the
Lake Region as they head towards London and Longbourn. The Hursts and Caroline never get there, because Darcy’s men have taken the scenic route all over England except heading to Hertfordshire. Without checking a map of England, I’m not sure how far apart Herefordshire is from Hertfordshire, but that was one of the many shires gone through before she gave up. Great caper as many wild goose chases were taking place during the story.
September 23, 2018
This is a light-hearted, but a bit predictable, Pride and Prejudice variation. The story has multiple layers and several humorous incidents, which make the tale an enjoyable read.
Again, I am complaining about the use of multiple points of view used in the tale. As I have said in previous reviews, I know this does not bother everyone, and some will think me nit-picking. However, I find it distracting. There are 26 chapters. Caroline Bingley's POV is in Chapter 4; Caroline is also part of Chapter 5; Caroline reappears in Chap. 7, Lady Catherine's POV is part of Chapter 14; the Gouldings are found in Chap. 18; Bingley in Chap. 20, and Mr. Bennet in Chap. 21.
Quotations marks are often omitted. This causes some confusion as to speaker.
The road to Gretna Green was not as described in the book. At the time of the story, the Great North Road went up the eastern side of Great Britain from London all the away to Edinburgh, Scotland. If the couple thought to take that road, they could cut across to Carlisle once they reached York and then travel on to Gretna Green. Otherwise, following the routes for the Royal Mail would be used for the western side of the country. As Pemberley is in Derbyshire, it would make more sense to reach Gretna by traveling on the western side of the country.
Again, I am complaining about the use of multiple points of view used in the tale. As I have said in previous reviews, I know this does not bother everyone, and some will think me nit-picking. However, I find it distracting. There are 26 chapters. Caroline Bingley's POV is in Chapter 4; Caroline is also part of Chapter 5; Caroline reappears in Chap. 7, Lady Catherine's POV is part of Chapter 14; the Gouldings are found in Chap. 18; Bingley in Chap. 20, and Mr. Bennet in Chap. 21.
Quotations marks are often omitted. This causes some confusion as to speaker.
The road to Gretna Green was not as described in the book. At the time of the story, the Great North Road went up the eastern side of Great Britain from London all the away to Edinburgh, Scotland. If the couple thought to take that road, they could cut across to Carlisle once they reached York and then travel on to Gretna Green. Otherwise, following the routes for the Royal Mail would be used for the western side of the country. As Pemberley is in Derbyshire, it would make more sense to reach Gretna by traveling on the western side of the country.
June 13, 2025
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. This is a Pride and Prejudice variation. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way.
Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth are off to Gretna Green. A dastardly scheme enacted by Miss Bingley sends them on a wild ride through England’s northern counties in pursuit of Lydia and Mr. Wickham. Accompanied by her relatives and pursued by his, they join a succession of carriages streaming along the busy road to the border. New friends are made along the way, as well as some unexpected choices.
Mr. Darcy never imagined that he would help anybody to elope, but he learns that sometimes the circumstances justify drastic action. He is a willing accomplice to the marital extravaganza at the culmination of their journey even though he would never choose to marry over the anvil. Would he? Confusion and misunderstandings abound in this comic romp. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. This is a Pride and Prejudice variation. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way.
Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth are off to Gretna Green. A dastardly scheme enacted by Miss Bingley sends them on a wild ride through England’s northern counties in pursuit of Lydia and Mr. Wickham. Accompanied by her relatives and pursued by his, they join a succession of carriages streaming along the busy road to the border. New friends are made along the way, as well as some unexpected choices.
Mr. Darcy never imagined that he would help anybody to elope, but he learns that sometimes the circumstances justify drastic action. He is a willing accomplice to the marital extravaganza at the culmination of their journey even though he would never choose to marry over the anvil. Would he? Confusion and misunderstandings abound in this comic romp. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
June 11, 2020
I would give this a 3.5 because it is hilarious and had me laughing out loud multiple times. This book is a comedy that is not really meant to be taken seriously and was just the thing I needed after reading a very angsty and heavy book. I did enjoy this book and would give it a higher rating if it was a little shorter. It was not an overly long book, but in my opinion, this type of farcical comedy is great in small doses. If they aren't kept short they become just plain ridiculous and over the top and lose some of their comedic value. While this book didn't push the limits too much, there were some times where I started to think it was going a bit too far. I did really enjoy it though and would have no problem recommending it to someone looking for a light and enjoyable read!
May 25, 2023
Misunderstandings and unintended consequences. I really liked this story, it was well-written and very funny. I laughed out loud more than once, but especially the scene where Darcy, Elizabeth, and the Gardiners burst into a room and grab an unknown couple trying to escape, thinking they are Lydia and Wickham. I also loved the purposeful obstruction and misdirection of Miss Bingley on her trip from Pemberley to Netherfield to try to stop Mr. Bingley from proposing! Things turned out well for everyone and she got what she deserved. Great fun! I do want to thank the author for including this story in Kindle Unlimited; otherwise I would not have read it.
December 7, 2019
This story was okay, but not the greatest. I found parts of it repetitive between the point-of-view swaps, the familiar characters get over-explained in the narrative, the POV hops in the middle of scenes, and there were many times that the quotation marks around dialogue were missing or in the wrong place. Where it could have been a pleasant, cheesy little story, those things detracted from my enjoyment. The story itself was ridiculous, but I suspect that was the intention.
2.5 stars rounded up.
2.5 stars rounded up.
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