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Darcy's Melody
Inspired by Jane Austen’s PRIDE AND PREJUDICE comes DARCY'S MELODY. In the year 1811 the war with France continues to rage, sending many injured men home to England where accommodations are limited. Raising funds to build an additional structure at the London Hospital for the wounded has become a top priority for Lady Eleanor Fitzwilliam, Countess of Matlock. She has not only enlisted members of the "ton" to assist with her committee, but women who are well-known throughout the trade community. It is within this endeavor that Elizabeth Bennet and Georgiana Darcy meet through a mutual love of music. This is the story of how music and friendship bring two families together, challenging Fitzwilliam Darcy to embrace a new melody within his heart.
- GenresHistoricalRomanceFiction
432 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 17, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 5, 2018
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
Darcy and Elizabeth meet under different circumstances in this interesting premise. We get to see Darcy's pride working against their romance even without exposure to the unrefined Meryton society and before he meets the rest of the Bennet family.
Elizabeth and Jane are staying with the Gardiners for an extended visit because Mrs. Gardiner has them helping her in charity work which also involves Lady Matlock. While the earl's wife wouldn't ordinarily interact with a tradesman's family, she has been very pleased with their efforts on behalf of soldiers seriously wounded in the war with France.
Darcy becomes more and more concerned about Georgiana, who has not been herself since her near-disaster with Wickham at Ramsgate. He and Lady Matlock hope to interest her in her aunt's charity work, and the Bennet sisters and Mrs. Gardiner are invited to a tea in order to present the details to Georgiana and her brother. Jane and Elizabeth prove to be very successful in drawing Georgiana out. Darcy is particularly impressed with Elizabeth, although the feeling is not mutual at the time. However, through Elizabeth's friendship with Georgiana and the various charity activities in which they participate, she and Darcy see each other enough to develop a warm friendship--enough that Darcy finds himself wishing she were an eligible match, and then wondering if perhaps he can overlook her lack of connections and meager dowry.
...Then the rest of the Bennet family descends on London. 'Nuff said.
The premise is developed nicely. As the title suggests, music has a major role in the plot. Prayer does, too, although not in an overbearing way. The last act of the story is thrilling, with Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam scrambling to find and save Georgiana and Elizabeth from kidnappers. There's an occasional modern-sounding phrase (for example, Colonel Fitzwilliam tells Darcy to "lighten up"), but the writing otherwise is solid and flows well.
However, the book goes longer than necessary, continuing on past the HEA to a year in the future. This is in a chapter titled "Our Future." There's an additional section marked as an Epilogue that jumps ahead another ten years. Some readers like this stuff. I like a book to end when the plot resolves.
Content is clean.
Darcy and Elizabeth meet under different circumstances in this interesting premise. We get to see Darcy's pride working against their romance even without exposure to the unrefined Meryton society and before he meets the rest of the Bennet family.
Elizabeth and Jane are staying with the Gardiners for an extended visit because Mrs. Gardiner has them helping her in charity work which also involves Lady Matlock. While the earl's wife wouldn't ordinarily interact with a tradesman's family, she has been very pleased with their efforts on behalf of soldiers seriously wounded in the war with France.
Darcy becomes more and more concerned about Georgiana, who has not been herself since her near-disaster with Wickham at Ramsgate. He and Lady Matlock hope to interest her in her aunt's charity work, and the Bennet sisters and Mrs. Gardiner are invited to a tea in order to present the details to Georgiana and her brother. Jane and Elizabeth prove to be very successful in drawing Georgiana out. Darcy is particularly impressed with Elizabeth, although the feeling is not mutual at the time. However, through Elizabeth's friendship with Georgiana and the various charity activities in which they participate, she and Darcy see each other enough to develop a warm friendship--enough that Darcy finds himself wishing she were an eligible match, and then wondering if perhaps he can overlook her lack of connections and meager dowry.
...Then the rest of the Bennet family descends on London. 'Nuff said.
The premise is developed nicely. As the title suggests, music has a major role in the plot. Prayer does, too, although not in an overbearing way. The last act of the story is thrilling, with Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam scrambling to find and save Georgiana and Elizabeth from kidnappers. There's an occasional modern-sounding phrase (for example, Colonel Fitzwilliam tells Darcy to "lighten up"), but the writing otherwise is solid and flows well.
However, the book goes longer than necessary, continuing on past the HEA to a year in the future. This is in a chapter titled "Our Future." There's an additional section marked as an Epilogue that jumps ahead another ten years. Some readers like this stuff. I like a book to end when the plot resolves.
Content is clean.
December 22, 2018
Here is another book that I read as a WIP but as it was unpublished, never posted a review. When it was published I had to not only read it again but also add my review.
When I first read this I was delighted by the links to all the music mentioned in this story. There are those played by Georgiana and others as well as some sung or played by Elizabeth. The author is featured in some of these and I found that an additional pleasure as it gave me a little insight into another of her talents.
As the story description tells us this variation has a totally different beginning, one of importance even today as Lady Matlock is accepting help from those in trade as well as in the ton to not only finance the hospital for wounded veterans but also to give aid, comfort and diversion to those men in that facility. Elizabeth and Jane become part of that and meet Georgiana Darcy through that activity and, thus, her brother, Mr. Darcy.
Darcy and Elizabeth bond over her friendship with Georgiana as Elizabeth helps to draw Georgiana out and to support her efforts to entertain the veterans through music. All the time we read that old refrain from him about how she would be a perfect wife but for her lack of connections. It only gets worse when he meets and observes her mother and other sisters. But "Elizabeth Bennet had become his melody for she owned his heart." When he does offer he truly believes that the friendship they have is an indication that she will accept him even over and above his own wealth, family and connections. But it is his bringing up the latter as well as her own observations and experiences at the hands of his aunt that reinforce why she cannot accept him.
Elizabeth is made to stay in London when her mother is irate at Elizabeth's rejection of Mr. Collins' suit. Thus she continues to have a part in Georgiana's life even when the latter becomes deathly ill. The part of the story has some angst as conflict with the aunt about treatment comes to the fore. And why is Elizabeth even allowed to be there at Darcy House?
We have intrigue due to the conflict with the French and part of that is a Lord who wants Elizabeth as his paramour and is quite forceful in that desire! His role in the war is not quite clear but the French are interested in this man. Turmoil here leads to heated drama.
Love this quote near the end: "The melody of your heart is here, singing within my own now and forever. How I love you, my darling.”
This is a long story but kept me turning the pages. In the WIP version there several links to short stories which helped fill in background. Well worth reading! (The dates of my first reading of this story are only a guess.)
When I first read this I was delighted by the links to all the music mentioned in this story. There are those played by Georgiana and others as well as some sung or played by Elizabeth. The author is featured in some of these and I found that an additional pleasure as it gave me a little insight into another of her talents.
As the story description tells us this variation has a totally different beginning, one of importance even today as Lady Matlock is accepting help from those in trade as well as in the ton to not only finance the hospital for wounded veterans but also to give aid, comfort and diversion to those men in that facility. Elizabeth and Jane become part of that and meet Georgiana Darcy through that activity and, thus, her brother, Mr. Darcy.
Darcy and Elizabeth bond over her friendship with Georgiana as Elizabeth helps to draw Georgiana out and to support her efforts to entertain the veterans through music. All the time we read that old refrain from him about how she would be a perfect wife but for her lack of connections. It only gets worse when he meets and observes her mother and other sisters. But "Elizabeth Bennet had become his melody for she owned his heart." When he does offer he truly believes that the friendship they have is an indication that she will accept him even over and above his own wealth, family and connections. But it is his bringing up the latter as well as her own observations and experiences at the hands of his aunt that reinforce why she cannot accept him.
Elizabeth is made to stay in London when her mother is irate at Elizabeth's rejection of Mr. Collins' suit. Thus she continues to have a part in Georgiana's life even when the latter becomes deathly ill. The part of the story has some angst as conflict with the aunt about treatment comes to the fore. And why is Elizabeth even allowed to be there at Darcy House?
We have intrigue due to the conflict with the French and part of that is a Lord who wants Elizabeth as his paramour and is quite forceful in that desire! His role in the war is not quite clear but the French are interested in this man. Turmoil here leads to heated drama.
Love this quote near the end: "The melody of your heart is here, singing within my own now and forever. How I love you, my darling.”
This is a long story but kept me turning the pages. In the WIP version there several links to short stories which helped fill in background. Well worth reading! (The dates of my first reading of this story are only a guess.)
August 17, 2023
Quite Enjoyable!
Reviewed in Canada on February 14, 2019
I loved this non-canon from start to finish read. Well written, pleasant interaction between our favorite couple, was a pleasant change from some of the angst-filled versions I have read. This version of Darcy was one I truly loved portrayed, and I really appreciated this Elizabeth, who never gave in to, nor was blinded by the villains of the story. Highly recommend.
Reviewed in Canada on February 14, 2019
I loved this non-canon from start to finish read. Well written, pleasant interaction between our favorite couple, was a pleasant change from some of the angst-filled versions I have read. This version of Darcy was one I truly loved portrayed, and I really appreciated this Elizabeth, who never gave in to, nor was blinded by the villains of the story. Highly recommend.
March 26, 2022
What I loved: All the scenes involving music: I'd reread the book just for that. The charity work: I appreciate when historical romance fiction of any sub-genre visits some truth of reality for the times. I don't want it to be gratuitous, of course. The writing showed me that Jane and Lizzy were doing it not just for their aunt, but because they saw and felt the need themselves and found a level of reward in the doing. There's a sweet scene with the Gardiner's two daughters being allowed to join in having tea with Georgiana when she comes to visit and later their darling early efforts at sewing for charity themselves. The relationship between Elizabeth and Georgiana: I liked that Elizabeth befriended Georgie before really even interacting with Darcy. Elizabeth's devotion and protection, encouragement and faith in Georgiana was the closest friend/sister relationship I've seen in JAFF to this date. And the romance between Darcy and Elizabeth: I liked the different from canon meeting. I loved Darcy's turn-around in his acceptance of Elizabeth's station and connections. I loved his defense of her to his aunts. That was some showdown. This made the tale a very romantic story as he blundered his first proposal and had to rebuild their understanding until the time was right for another much better proposal.
What I didn't like: I felt the political part of the story could have been cut entirely and made into another book. Elizabeth's working for her uncle might've been an interesting part of that story arc. The threat of Lord Wolverton didn't have to have that political connection to be part of the plot, his pursuit of Lizzy was menacing enough without the political thing. Darcy and the Colonel kicking his butt after he assaulted Elizabeth would've been enough intrigue for me. The kidnapping although scary, brave, and heroic, was just over the top for me. We were all set for the HEA, and now this?
I want to go on the record and say I'm one of those readers who does enjoy an epilogue. Just saying. And I like this one.
What I didn't like: I felt the political part of the story could have been cut entirely and made into another book. Elizabeth's working for her uncle might've been an interesting part of that story arc. The threat of Lord Wolverton didn't have to have that political connection to be part of the plot, his pursuit of Lizzy was menacing enough without the political thing. Darcy and the Colonel kicking his butt after he assaulted Elizabeth would've been enough intrigue for me. The kidnapping although scary, brave, and heroic, was just over the top for me. We were all set for the HEA, and now this?
I want to go on the record and say I'm one of those readers who does enjoy an epilogue. Just saying. And I like this one.
September 8, 2018
From the first chapter, this variation grabbed my attention. I loved the unique way Elizabeth and Darcy meet for the first time. Though this is off-canon, we still get the frisson of awareness that Darcy feels for Elizabeth. He fights his attraction tooth and nail. His first proposal is just as bad as in canon, but his second was downright swoon-worthy. Actually there were several swoon-worthy moments once Darcy got it right!
"Despite his good intentions to remain apart, Darcy's resolve proved insufficient once Elizabeth began to sing. The melody itself was haunting and the heartfelt emotion with which she sang drew him into her world of song." (quote from the book)
I enjoyed how the story not only focused on Elizabeth and Darcy, but Georgiana as well. She plays a key role, as does music, that gives this novel a gentle heartwarming touch. Her development throughout the story showed how Elizabeth's influence helped her grow. I enjoyed how scenes from canon were used in different ways but were still very effective. There is also a bit of political intrigue lurking within this story that adds a sense of danger. My only quibble with that part is how it seemed to fade away and not resurface until near the end.
Ms. Redlarczyk love of music shines through in this story and one I truly enjoyed.
November 15, 2018
Music will bring them together
If P&P variations is it own little genre, I believe the sub-genre this story belongs in is the ‘Lizzy is abducted and held on the third floor’. Very interesting story, I enjoyed it for the most part.
The writing style was uneven. Most of the time it read as an adult novel but once in awhile it slipped in fairy tale mode and the conversations, emotions and style was more young adult or almost children’s book level.
I enjoy our dear couple coming together after having to deal his relations and the ton.
All in all A good story. I recommend the book.
If P&P variations is it own little genre, I believe the sub-genre this story belongs in is the ‘Lizzy is abducted and held on the third floor’. Very interesting story, I enjoyed it for the most part.
The writing style was uneven. Most of the time it read as an adult novel but once in awhile it slipped in fairy tale mode and the conversations, emotions and style was more young adult or almost children’s book level.
I enjoy our dear couple coming together after having to deal his relations and the ton.
All in all A good story. I recommend the book.
August 26, 2018
A lovely variation
This was a truly enjoyable read. There is just enough angst that the story is intriguing. I really enjoyed all of the characters in this book. The side spy story adds to the angst and intrigue. I will enjoy reading this one again.
This was a truly enjoyable read. There is just enough angst that the story is intriguing. I really enjoyed all of the characters in this book. The side spy story adds to the angst and intrigue. I will enjoy reading this one again.
July 29, 2019
What If Elizabeth Met Mr. Darcy and Georgiana Through Their Aunts’ Charity Work?
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: May-October 1811, London
SYNOPSIS: The two eldest Bennet sisters are in London for a lengthy stay with their Aunt Gardiner and all become heavily involved with charity work to support and build a much-needed hospital extension for wounded soldiers. Through their charity projects they become closely acquainted to Lady Matlock and eventually make the acquaintance of Miss Darcy and Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy form a much more favorable opinion of each other away from Meryton, the other Bennets, and Caroline Bingley. But Darcy, aware of his duty to his family, knows he must marry from the upper echelons of society. And Elizabeth’s aunt is cautioning her to carefully guard her heart and not give into romantic expectations…What happens when their attraction and connection cannot be denied?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Elizabeth and Georgiana: This tale illustrates the most loving and tender-hearted relationships between Elizabeth and Georgiana. I enjoyed seeing their sisterly devotion for each other grow…even before Darcy proposes! The image on the cover beautifully represents their relationship in these pages. Elizabeth’s actions towards Georgiana are so protective and gentle. It was heartwarming to witness.
- A Noble Cause: I loved seeing these characters involve with charity work, especially work that is important and worthy. I enjoyed all the events that took place at the London Hospital and it was moving to hear the stories and references to the soldiers the ladies encounter there. Also, I really love the idea of all these characters using their time and talents in such it way – it makes wonderful sense for Lady Matlock, Mrs. Gardiner, Jane, Elizabeth, and Georgiana to participate in such activities.
- Sonatas and Songs: As the title suggests, music plays an important role in this story. And since the author is a talented musician and instructor, there are lots of mentions of musical works and composers from this period. I loved all the references to various songs and sonatas in this tale, and I loved that Georgiana and Elizabeth bonded so much over their shared love of music. For those that would like to listen to the music mentioned in this story, Jennifer Redlarczyk shares some lovely recordings of it HERE.
- Unique Premise and Twists: With this story taking place solely in London it follows a very divergent path from the events of Pride and Prejudice. I enjoyed all the fresh events, characters, and conflicts that came with this new path. Darcy and Elizabeth still have their obstacles, but they are of a different sort now.
- Ardently In Love: I loved seeing such a stirring attraction between Darcy and Elizabeth. And even though both strive to think of each other as just friends, their hearts cannot be waylaid. Mr. Darcy’s devotion to Elizabeth is definitely something to swoon at in this story! And I appreciate the important lessons about love he learns.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- A Picture of Perfection: While Darcy did still have his well-known flaws of pride and taciturnity, Elizabeth appeared to be flawless. Without her errors of judgment or stubborn outspokenness, I missed seeing Elizabeth evolve and grow in character.
- Story Arc and Focus: I sometimes felt certain aspects of the story were left on the back burner periodically, such as the secret political intrigue, Lord Wolverton’s pursuit of Elizabeth and political activities, and Jane’s and Bingley’s relationship. Perhaps with so many elements to combine in one story there wasn’t enough page time for them all.
CONCLUSION:
I thoroughly enjoyed this creative and beautifully composed variation from Jennifer Redlarczyk! Filled with heartfelt words, swelling emotions, and harmonious tones this sensitive and romantic tale is sure to strike the right chord with many Darcy and Elizabeth fans! 😉
Austenesque Reviews
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: May-October 1811, London
SYNOPSIS: The two eldest Bennet sisters are in London for a lengthy stay with their Aunt Gardiner and all become heavily involved with charity work to support and build a much-needed hospital extension for wounded soldiers. Through their charity projects they become closely acquainted to Lady Matlock and eventually make the acquaintance of Miss Darcy and Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy form a much more favorable opinion of each other away from Meryton, the other Bennets, and Caroline Bingley. But Darcy, aware of his duty to his family, knows he must marry from the upper echelons of society. And Elizabeth’s aunt is cautioning her to carefully guard her heart and not give into romantic expectations…What happens when their attraction and connection cannot be denied?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Elizabeth and Georgiana: This tale illustrates the most loving and tender-hearted relationships between Elizabeth and Georgiana. I enjoyed seeing their sisterly devotion for each other grow…even before Darcy proposes! The image on the cover beautifully represents their relationship in these pages. Elizabeth’s actions towards Georgiana are so protective and gentle. It was heartwarming to witness.
- A Noble Cause: I loved seeing these characters involve with charity work, especially work that is important and worthy. I enjoyed all the events that took place at the London Hospital and it was moving to hear the stories and references to the soldiers the ladies encounter there. Also, I really love the idea of all these characters using their time and talents in such it way – it makes wonderful sense for Lady Matlock, Mrs. Gardiner, Jane, Elizabeth, and Georgiana to participate in such activities.
- Sonatas and Songs: As the title suggests, music plays an important role in this story. And since the author is a talented musician and instructor, there are lots of mentions of musical works and composers from this period. I loved all the references to various songs and sonatas in this tale, and I loved that Georgiana and Elizabeth bonded so much over their shared love of music. For those that would like to listen to the music mentioned in this story, Jennifer Redlarczyk shares some lovely recordings of it HERE.
- Unique Premise and Twists: With this story taking place solely in London it follows a very divergent path from the events of Pride and Prejudice. I enjoyed all the fresh events, characters, and conflicts that came with this new path. Darcy and Elizabeth still have their obstacles, but they are of a different sort now.
- Ardently In Love: I loved seeing such a stirring attraction between Darcy and Elizabeth. And even though both strive to think of each other as just friends, their hearts cannot be waylaid. Mr. Darcy’s devotion to Elizabeth is definitely something to swoon at in this story! And I appreciate the important lessons about love he learns.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- A Picture of Perfection: While Darcy did still have his well-known flaws of pride and taciturnity, Elizabeth appeared to be flawless. Without her errors of judgment or stubborn outspokenness, I missed seeing Elizabeth evolve and grow in character.
- Story Arc and Focus: I sometimes felt certain aspects of the story were left on the back burner periodically, such as the secret political intrigue, Lord Wolverton’s pursuit of Elizabeth and political activities, and Jane’s and Bingley’s relationship. Perhaps with so many elements to combine in one story there wasn’t enough page time for them all.
CONCLUSION:
I thoroughly enjoyed this creative and beautifully composed variation from Jennifer Redlarczyk! Filled with heartfelt words, swelling emotions, and harmonious tones this sensitive and romantic tale is sure to strike the right chord with many Darcy and Elizabeth fans! 😉
Austenesque Reviews
August 18, 2018
Beautiful variation
I loved the story very much, the characters were great, and the plot was very good. Apart from the romance, there was a political theme, which added some suspense to the story.
All the original characters were very well developed, especially the villains. And I absolutely adored the songs. To fully enjoy this amazing book, I highly recommend playing the recordings of the songs done by the author. While I was reading each chapter, I listened to every song, as it was sung in the book. What a pleasure.
I loved the story very much, the characters were great, and the plot was very good. Apart from the romance, there was a political theme, which added some suspense to the story.
All the original characters were very well developed, especially the villains. And I absolutely adored the songs. To fully enjoy this amazing book, I highly recommend playing the recordings of the songs done by the author. While I was reading each chapter, I listened to every song, as it was sung in the book. What a pleasure.
August 21, 2019
Avid Reader
I purchased this book a year ago and almost forgot It was on my Kindle until I read a chapter on Darcy and Lizzie. How I managed to overlook this book for a year baffles me. Darcy and Elizabeth meet in a bookstore and feel an instant attraction. However, Darcy and Lady Matlock are stuck on class and rank, so he views her as unsuitable. Although Elizabeth and Georgina are encouraged to be friends, Darcy doesn't think Elizabeth is good enough for him, but he eventually gives up and acknowledges his feelings for. Lady Clarissa sees Elizabeth as a threat and refuses to attend Gunter's if Jane and Elizabeth attend. At the Military Ball Darcy cuts in on Elizabeth 's dance with Mr. Collins which causes quite a stir followed by a very nasty letter from Lady Matlock to Mrs. Gardiner. Darcy 's first proposal comes with stipulations, so Elizabeth refuses him. Fortunately, Lord Matlock stands up to Lady Matlock and Lady Catherine and tells them that he supports Darcy in his choice of wife as long as she is a gentlewomam. In addition, he and Mr. Gardiner have had an exceptional business relationship, which he has no intention of abandoning. As per his edict there will be no disparaging of the Bennet or Gardiner families. Lydia, Mr. Collins, and Mrs. Bennet am embarrassed Elizabeth and Jane at the Military Ball, causes a huge argument between M.r. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner. Fortunately, Mr.Bennet makes changes, but Elizabeth must re.son in London. There is never a dull moment in this book, especially Lord Wolverton and his obsession with Elizabeth and Wickham 's determination to get what he is owed. There's a HEA, but it doesn't come easily for Darcy and Elizabeth.
I purchased this book a year ago and almost forgot It was on my Kindle until I read a chapter on Darcy and Lizzie. How I managed to overlook this book for a year baffles me. Darcy and Elizabeth meet in a bookstore and feel an instant attraction. However, Darcy and Lady Matlock are stuck on class and rank, so he views her as unsuitable. Although Elizabeth and Georgina are encouraged to be friends, Darcy doesn't think Elizabeth is good enough for him, but he eventually gives up and acknowledges his feelings for. Lady Clarissa sees Elizabeth as a threat and refuses to attend Gunter's if Jane and Elizabeth attend. At the Military Ball Darcy cuts in on Elizabeth 's dance with Mr. Collins which causes quite a stir followed by a very nasty letter from Lady Matlock to Mrs. Gardiner. Darcy 's first proposal comes with stipulations, so Elizabeth refuses him. Fortunately, Lord Matlock stands up to Lady Matlock and Lady Catherine and tells them that he supports Darcy in his choice of wife as long as she is a gentlewomam. In addition, he and Mr. Gardiner have had an exceptional business relationship, which he has no intention of abandoning. As per his edict there will be no disparaging of the Bennet or Gardiner families. Lydia, Mr. Collins, and Mrs. Bennet am embarrassed Elizabeth and Jane at the Military Ball, causes a huge argument between M.r. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner. Fortunately, Mr.Bennet makes changes, but Elizabeth must re.son in London. There is never a dull moment in this book, especially Lord Wolverton and his obsession with Elizabeth and Wickham 's determination to get what he is owed. There's a HEA, but it doesn't come easily for Darcy and Elizabeth.
August 19, 2023
This story has Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy meet in Town as she is working with her aunt on a charity coordinated by Lady Matlock. Despite his family’s vocal desire to keep the ranks separate, Darcy and his sister find Elizabeth to be just what they need.
The emotion and characters are wonderful but there where at least two places where the story could have ended, but then something else would happen.
The emotion and characters are wonderful but there where at least two places where the story could have ended, but then something else would happen.
November 4, 2019
Long Variation
I found this novel to be a bit frustrating. The style is an odd mix of stilted and simplistic. The author doesn’t punctuate properly, which forces the reader to mentally edit constantly. Her use of commas, or more accurately, the lack of them is irritating. Just okay.
I found this novel to be a bit frustrating. The style is an odd mix of stilted and simplistic. The author doesn’t punctuate properly, which forces the reader to mentally edit constantly. Her use of commas, or more accurately, the lack of them is irritating. Just okay.
August 10, 2021
I enjoyed this story, but also felt like it was a little all over the place, there was so much going on.
It was interesting to read of the home front endeavors to assist with the young men coming home from the war.
I didn't like the strong societal boundaries between the classes, but I guess those too were accurate for the era.
The dynamic between E and Georgiana was well done.
It was interesting to read of the home front endeavors to assist with the young men coming home from the war.
I didn't like the strong societal boundaries between the classes, but I guess those too were accurate for the era.
The dynamic between E and Georgiana was well done.
Read
August 26, 2022DNF. The story telling is too chaotic for me.
August 13, 2021
This is probably one of the most different variations I've read in relation to how far it differs from the original story line. I'm not saying that's a bad thing though. It was a very unusual way of rolling out the key story elements.
The story opens with Darcy and Elizabeth meeting but not knowing each other. The meet again shortly after when it is revealed that Elizabeth is helping Darcy's aunt, Lady Matlock, with a large fundraising effort. Darcy hesitantly introduces her and Aunt Gardiner to Georgiana and is pleasantly surprised at the budding friendship that develops between the girls. From there, the story unfolds with the developing friendship between Elizabeth and Georgiana and how Elizabeth gets Georgiana involved in the fundraising efforts. Being around Elizabeth so much also creates feelings in Darcy that he tries to ignore. However, throughout it all Elizabeth kindly phrases the disrespect she is getting from the haute ton while working for their aunt.
I did enjoy this version of Elizabeth. It seemed very true to her original character. The version of Darcy was interesting but also seemed to fit with the original character. There is some initial ruffled feathers, but nothing like the original Pride and Prejudice. I really enjoyed the way Georgiana was portrayed in this book. She is a strong supporting character and is not overlooked in her character development. This is also a much more authentic look at how the high society interacted with the low gentry levels.
The integration of Mr. Collins was important for the development of Elizabeth and Darcy's relationship in this book. There is less Lady Catherine but more Wickham and Ms. Young. There is also more drama and rough situations, but it is not piled together or continuous. The high drama areas are spaced apart with some calm and more character building in between. Therefore the overall book doesn't feel rushed or continually emotionally charged.
The book is billed as highly musical, but I can't say I felt that it was. There was a lot of music and it was well written, but you aren't beat over the head with it. It is delicately worked into the storyline, never feeling forced or like the author was looking for ways to incorporate more music. You get several references to music you can look up for that time period and an idea of what they were used for.
The writing overall was well done and the story line unfolded well and at a good place. There was nothing jarring or seeming to be out of place. It almost seemed like a soft or delicate version to me even though it wasn't really, probably because it is quite feminine in nature based on the strong focus on the relationships with the females in the book. I would have actually given it a 4.5 rating, but I don't feel like I'll go back to read it again which is why I'm not giving it a 5 star rating. I'd definitely recommend it to people who like Pride and Prejudice variations.
The story opens with Darcy and Elizabeth meeting but not knowing each other. The meet again shortly after when it is revealed that Elizabeth is helping Darcy's aunt, Lady Matlock, with a large fundraising effort. Darcy hesitantly introduces her and Aunt Gardiner to Georgiana and is pleasantly surprised at the budding friendship that develops between the girls. From there, the story unfolds with the developing friendship between Elizabeth and Georgiana and how Elizabeth gets Georgiana involved in the fundraising efforts. Being around Elizabeth so much also creates feelings in Darcy that he tries to ignore. However, throughout it all Elizabeth kindly phrases the disrespect she is getting from the haute ton while working for their aunt.
I did enjoy this version of Elizabeth. It seemed very true to her original character. The version of Darcy was interesting but also seemed to fit with the original character. There is some initial ruffled feathers, but nothing like the original Pride and Prejudice. I really enjoyed the way Georgiana was portrayed in this book. She is a strong supporting character and is not overlooked in her character development. This is also a much more authentic look at how the high society interacted with the low gentry levels.
The integration of Mr. Collins was important for the development of Elizabeth and Darcy's relationship in this book. There is less Lady Catherine but more Wickham and Ms. Young. There is also more drama and rough situations, but it is not piled together or continuous. The high drama areas are spaced apart with some calm and more character building in between. Therefore the overall book doesn't feel rushed or continually emotionally charged.
The book is billed as highly musical, but I can't say I felt that it was. There was a lot of music and it was well written, but you aren't beat over the head with it. It is delicately worked into the storyline, never feeling forced or like the author was looking for ways to incorporate more music. You get several references to music you can look up for that time period and an idea of what they were used for.
The writing overall was well done and the story line unfolded well and at a good place. There was nothing jarring or seeming to be out of place. It almost seemed like a soft or delicate version to me even though it wasn't really, probably because it is quite feminine in nature based on the strong focus on the relationships with the females in the book. I would have actually given it a 4.5 rating, but I don't feel like I'll go back to read it again which is why I'm not giving it a 5 star rating. I'd definitely recommend it to people who like Pride and Prejudice variations.
January 19, 2020
Engaging story but unnecessarily treaclely
First the good: this is a very well researched story. The depth of the author's knowledge of Regency era music and current events gives the narrative a sense of of believability that is is missing in many Austen fan fiction books. But then comes the not so good: the narrative is so over the top romanticized, particularly in making Darcy so unbelievably ridiculous in speech and actions, that I frankly wouldn't have blamed Elizabeth if she had walked out on him. Add to that characters who are introduced, developed, and then simply dropped. There is also a great deal of proofing that needs to be done (phrases randomly placed in italics, nouns capitalized for no reason except that they are nouns). I wish I could give this a stronger rating, particularly because of the clever resolution the Bennett family's many problems, but I just can't. Don't read this book while eating dessert; the sugar overload will put you into coma!
First the good: this is a very well researched story. The depth of the author's knowledge of Regency era music and current events gives the narrative a sense of of believability that is is missing in many Austen fan fiction books. But then comes the not so good: the narrative is so over the top romanticized, particularly in making Darcy so unbelievably ridiculous in speech and actions, that I frankly wouldn't have blamed Elizabeth if she had walked out on him. Add to that characters who are introduced, developed, and then simply dropped. There is also a great deal of proofing that needs to be done (phrases randomly placed in italics, nouns capitalized for no reason except that they are nouns). I wish I could give this a stronger rating, particularly because of the clever resolution the Bennett family's many problems, but I just can't. Don't read this book while eating dessert; the sugar overload will put you into coma!
October 10, 2020
I loved the sweet budding romance
So often authors either use too much angst or not enough. I loved how our dear couple gradually grew to love one another and have a sweet budding romance. The characters were well developed and the story was definitely satisfying. The story fit the time period and characters were true to cannon.
So often authors either use too much angst or not enough. I loved how our dear couple gradually grew to love one another and have a sweet budding romance. The characters were well developed and the story was definitely satisfying. The story fit the time period and characters were true to cannon.
September 9, 2018
Exquisitely Romantic
A beautifully written story by Jennifer . Exquisite romantic connection between Darcy and Elizabeth. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this story. I have read many Pride and Prejudice variations and this one is definitely a standout. Highly recommended.
A beautifully written story by Jennifer . Exquisite romantic connection between Darcy and Elizabeth. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this story. I have read many Pride and Prejudice variations and this one is definitely a standout. Highly recommended.
January 8, 2026
Darcy's Melody
I liked some parts of this tale, but others dragged on and on. The fate of the antagonists are left in the air. I felt afraid until the end that Wickham might return. I allso did not find the title telling any part of the story.
I liked some parts of this tale, but others dragged on and on. The fate of the antagonists are left in the air. I felt afraid until the end that Wickham might return. I allso did not find the title telling any part of the story.
May 30, 2020
Enjoyable
A rather interesting and most musical variation inspired by Jane Austen's classic novel Pride and Prejudice by the talented Jennfer Redlarcyzk
A rather interesting and most musical variation inspired by Jane Austen's classic novel Pride and Prejudice by the talented Jennfer Redlarcyzk
June 8, 2021
Struggled with this one for 2 days and only got to 9%. DNF
January 22, 2019
Pleasant, but I regretted the witty dialogues between Elizabeth and Darcy. Here they fall in love very quickly, and it becomes then a little bit boring, without much surprise.
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