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Recognizing Love: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Secrets will surface... Accepting Mr. Darcy’s proposal and allowing him to assume a love she does not yet feel pains Miss Elizabeth Bennet but she is certain she can love him…in time. After all of the miseries he endured to salvage her youngest sister’s reputation, how could she not come to love such a man? Unfortunately, Lady Catherine arrives, bringing even thornier complications. With the many objections Darcy’s family will have regarding his marriage to the daughter of an unremarkable country squire, what more trouble can Lady Catherine stir up should she learn Elizabeth’s secret? In this Pride and Prejudice variation, what will Mr. Darcy do when he learns his beloved has accepted him although her heart is not engaged? New through Kindle Unlimited, Recognizing Love is a Jane Austen adaptation of about 73,000 words. If you are a fan of Pride and Prejudice variations, vagaries, fanfiction, and sequels, check out Recognizing Love today.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 14, 2018
136 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
Lizzy Brandon
2 books15 followersLizzy Brandon once attempted to switch sections of a Brit Lit course after seeing Pride and Prejudice on the reading list. How could a book with such a boring title possibly compete with Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, or Frankenstein? Luckily, her request was denied and she was introduced to Jane Austen’s amazing world of Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Years later, Lizzy was thrilled to discover the world of Pride and Prejudice sequels and variations where her favorite characters could live on with countless adventures. After enjoying reading variations for years, she decided to try writing one of her own. Folly and Forgiveness is Lizzy Brandon’s first, but hopefully not last, novel.
Years later, Lizzy was thrilled to discover the world of Pride and Prejudice sequels and variations where her favorite characters could live on with countless adventures. After enjoying reading variations for years, she decided to try writing one of her own. Folly and Forgiveness is Lizzy Brandon’s first, but hopefully not last, novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
December 6, 2018
I liked this but had trouble loving it because the basic premise requires the reader to plow through a great deal of introspection, mostly by Elizabeth but also by Darcy.
It imagines might happen if Darcy, instead of leaving Elizabeth alone to her misery upon reading Jane's letters announcing Lydia's elopement with Wickham, reassures Elizabeth that he will find the missing couple and promises that he will never abandon her and her family. After Darcy has done just that and proposes to her again, Elizabeth is not yet able to decipher her own feelings--does she love him, or does she feel mostly gratitude to him? How can she refuse him after all he has done for her family? Her acceptance at this point feels more like an obligation, but it's obvious to her that he believes she has the same feelings for him that he does for her.
Just when Elizabeth finally has worked up the nerve to admit her concerns to Darcy, Lady Catherine confronts her with the direct question that she cannot honestly answer. Unfortunately, Darcy overhears this, and Lady C. is happy to bring the news that she doesn't even love him to the rest of the Fitzwilliam family, expecting they'll pressure him into jilting her. Whoops! NOW what??
I enjoyed the novelty of Elizabeth's Meryton neighbors considering her a fortune hunter, too, since everyone knows her opinion of Darcy from when he first came to Hertfordshire. Darcy hears the little digs at social gatherings during their betrothal and becomes incensed on her behalf, once again reverting to the aloof, haughty man they all disliked back then.
There's plenty of Darcy-and-Elizabeth time, which is always a plus, and the writing flows pretty well with enough little tweaks to keep the reader guessing where the story will go.
I could empathize with Elizabeth's quandary over her feelings to some degree at first. My husband knew he was in love with me before I was ready to say those important words. (I didn't become engaged to him at the time, though!) I do think that the author belabors this, with Elizabeth speaking to Jane and her Aunt Gardiner about it, and, when she's not baring her mixed feelings to others, she's thinking and trying to analyze her emotions. I have no doubt that someone in her position WOULD be preoccupied with sorting out her feelings and seeking advice. However, it doesn't make for interesting reading to have similar points expressed multiple times. There's enough going on in the rest of the story, so I would have preferred this to be downplayed a bit OR for Elizabeth to understand her own feelings sooner.
However, the author weaves a good tale around it, and she has good writing chops. There are no distracting editing-type errors, just as one would expect from a book edited by the incomparable Christina Boyd!
Content is clean.
It imagines might happen if Darcy, instead of leaving Elizabeth alone to her misery upon reading Jane's letters announcing Lydia's elopement with Wickham, reassures Elizabeth that he will find the missing couple and promises that he will never abandon her and her family. After Darcy has done just that and proposes to her again, Elizabeth is not yet able to decipher her own feelings--does she love him, or does she feel mostly gratitude to him? How can she refuse him after all he has done for her family? Her acceptance at this point feels more like an obligation, but it's obvious to her that he believes she has the same feelings for him that he does for her.
Just when Elizabeth finally has worked up the nerve to admit her concerns to Darcy, Lady Catherine confronts her with the direct question that she cannot honestly answer. Unfortunately, Darcy overhears this, and Lady C. is happy to bring the news that she doesn't even love him to the rest of the Fitzwilliam family, expecting they'll pressure him into jilting her. Whoops! NOW what??
I enjoyed the novelty of Elizabeth's Meryton neighbors considering her a fortune hunter, too, since everyone knows her opinion of Darcy from when he first came to Hertfordshire. Darcy hears the little digs at social gatherings during their betrothal and becomes incensed on her behalf, once again reverting to the aloof, haughty man they all disliked back then.
There's plenty of Darcy-and-Elizabeth time, which is always a plus, and the writing flows pretty well with enough little tweaks to keep the reader guessing where the story will go.
I could empathize with Elizabeth's quandary over her feelings to some degree at first. My husband knew he was in love with me before I was ready to say those important words. (I didn't become engaged to him at the time, though!) I do think that the author belabors this, with Elizabeth speaking to Jane and her Aunt Gardiner about it, and, when she's not baring her mixed feelings to others, she's thinking and trying to analyze her emotions. I have no doubt that someone in her position WOULD be preoccupied with sorting out her feelings and seeking advice. However, it doesn't make for interesting reading to have similar points expressed multiple times. There's enough going on in the rest of the story, so I would have preferred this to be downplayed a bit OR for Elizabeth to understand her own feelings sooner.
However, the author weaves a good tale around it, and she has good writing chops. There are no distracting editing-type errors, just as one would expect from a book edited by the incomparable Christina Boyd!
Content is clean.
September 15, 2018
The story description is excellent in wrapping up the premise.
Elizabeth and the Gardiners have met Darcy while touring Pemberley. It is an awkward moment but the variation here is that when Darcy finds Elizabeth in distress after reading the letters from Jane about Lydia's elopement he offers to go with them to London to help find Wickham and Lydia. Thus Elizabeth is able to observe first hand what Darcy does to save her family from disgrace. In the time there her regard for him has grown and they are more than just friends. Elizabeth hopes that he will offer again if they continue to find so much to appreciate and respect about each other. Darcy, in an unguarded moment, takes the look of admiration upon her face to mean much more and offers for her. Elizabeth knows that it is a miracle that he has offered a second time. She believes that if she tells him that even with all that she now knows about his character she cannot yet say that she loves him he will not offer again. Elizabeth believes that if she turns him down a second time that is the end of any possibility that she will have a chance to learn if it is love and thus marry for love. She accepts him. She is sure that she can learn to love him as time goes by.
This story then becomes one which tells us of Darcy's unwavering but tested love, even as at times when he is angry as he learns the truth. She does not love him? And we also read of an Elizabeth who has much to learn about what love looks like, feels like. She has many to advise her: Aunt Gardiner and Jane, even Lady Matlock have words to offer. But she also has Lady Catherine and then Lord Matlock who make threats to force Darcy to give up Elizabeth. Darcy has his sister and his cousin, the colonel, giving him advise and at times also speaking with Elizabeth.
Thus they have something to fight for together, something that just may be the bond needed to be that final tie.
Lydia is a piece, even more so than in canon, in this variation. Mr. Bennet learns something...finally.
We do read much about the feelings of both Darcy and Elizabeth.
Elizabeth and the Gardiners have met Darcy while touring Pemberley. It is an awkward moment but the variation here is that when Darcy finds Elizabeth in distress after reading the letters from Jane about Lydia's elopement he offers to go with them to London to help find Wickham and Lydia. Thus Elizabeth is able to observe first hand what Darcy does to save her family from disgrace. In the time there her regard for him has grown and they are more than just friends. Elizabeth hopes that he will offer again if they continue to find so much to appreciate and respect about each other. Darcy, in an unguarded moment, takes the look of admiration upon her face to mean much more and offers for her. Elizabeth knows that it is a miracle that he has offered a second time. She believes that if she tells him that even with all that she now knows about his character she cannot yet say that she loves him he will not offer again. Elizabeth believes that if she turns him down a second time that is the end of any possibility that she will have a chance to learn if it is love and thus marry for love. She accepts him. She is sure that she can learn to love him as time goes by.
This story then becomes one which tells us of Darcy's unwavering but tested love, even as at times when he is angry as he learns the truth. She does not love him? And we also read of an Elizabeth who has much to learn about what love looks like, feels like. She has many to advise her: Aunt Gardiner and Jane, even Lady Matlock have words to offer. But she also has Lady Catherine and then Lord Matlock who make threats to force Darcy to give up Elizabeth. Darcy has his sister and his cousin, the colonel, giving him advise and at times also speaking with Elizabeth.
Thus they have something to fight for together, something that just may be the bond needed to be that final tie.
Lydia is a piece, even more so than in canon, in this variation. Mr. Bennet learns something...finally.
We do read much about the feelings of both Darcy and Elizabeth.
February 21, 2021
I am truly conflicted about this story. There were parts I really liked and parts I really loathed.
This is an angst heavy story which includes ample plots and subplots to propel it along. We begin at Pemberley with Lizzy and Darcy encountering one another and a whirlwind recounting of the visit. When Lizzy receives Jane's letters Darcy reveals his plan to assist the Bennets and accompanies the Gardiners to London, Lydia and Wickham are found and Darcy continues to court Lizzy leading to a HEA.
There was a bunch of stuff that made me torn between slapping Lizzy and throwing my Kindle across the room.
This is an angst heavy story which includes ample plots and subplots to propel it along. We begin at Pemberley with Lizzy and Darcy encountering one another and a whirlwind recounting of the visit. When Lizzy receives Jane's letters Darcy reveals his plan to assist the Bennets and accompanies the Gardiners to London, Lydia and Wickham are found and Darcy continues to court Lizzy leading to a HEA.
There was a bunch of stuff that made me torn between slapping Lizzy and throwing my Kindle across the room.
September 26, 2018
This Pride and Prejudice variation triggers around Darcy & Elizabeth speaking more about Lydia when he discovers her with Jane's letter in Lambton. Darcy agrees to help and Elizabeth knows. After all is resolved (for now) with the wayward sister, Darcy again asks Elizabeth to marry him. She can't imagine being with anyone else but accepts despite her feeling that she does not love him.
The remainder of the story places our dear couple under amazing amounts of stress. The root causes vary from mothers, annoying neighbors, hideous aunts, family pressure, and the couple themselves. They learn to take it all in stride as they find their mutual happily ever after.
The remainder of the story places our dear couple under amazing amounts of stress. The root causes vary from mothers, annoying neighbors, hideous aunts, family pressure, and the couple themselves. They learn to take it all in stride as they find their mutual happily ever after.
September 19, 2018
In this book we find out what would have happened if Darcy told Elizabeth of his plan to follow her to London to look for Lydia following her elopement. It was lovely to see them getting to know, appreciate and understand each other. When Darcy proposes again, Elizabeth is taken by surprise, not sure what she wants but accepts him anyway as she doesn't believe he would ask again if he refuses. He believes her to be in love with him.... what could possibly go wrong?!
I must admit, I am finding I don't like stories that have Elizabeth uncertain about her feelings. She's such a strong character and knows her own mind I struggle to get on board with the idea she would be in this position. This author manages to get away with this element of the story because the reader can see exactly what's going on for. Elizabeth through her behaviour. In this book Mr Darcy is just adorable! His heart is completely on his sleeve and it makes him so vulnerable - especially because we know he has misunderstood what's going on for Elizabeth and can see his disappointment coming. Lady Catherine is just awful but the author stops short of making her too ridiculous to be believable. We don't see much of the Colonel but I liked what I did see!
I really enjoyed this book - the writing is brilliant and the characters are brilliant. The only little complaint I have is that some of the dialogue was a little repetitive - to the point I thought I'd list my place and was reading something I'd already read. But this was minor and didn't take anything away from my overall enjoyment of the story.
I must admit, I am finding I don't like stories that have Elizabeth uncertain about her feelings. She's such a strong character and knows her own mind I struggle to get on board with the idea she would be in this position. This author manages to get away with this element of the story because the reader can see exactly what's going on for. Elizabeth through her behaviour. In this book Mr Darcy is just adorable! His heart is completely on his sleeve and it makes him so vulnerable - especially because we know he has misunderstood what's going on for Elizabeth and can see his disappointment coming. Lady Catherine is just awful but the author stops short of making her too ridiculous to be believable. We don't see much of the Colonel but I liked what I did see!
I really enjoyed this book - the writing is brilliant and the characters are brilliant. The only little complaint I have is that some of the dialogue was a little repetitive - to the point I thought I'd list my place and was reading something I'd already read. But this was minor and didn't take anything away from my overall enjoyment of the story.
November 26, 2020
What can you say about this book other than it's exceptionally honest--except for our heroine? And that's the premise of the novel. All of the secrets in P&P are laid out on the table pretty easily, including pretty wide distribution of the Wickham story early on. Lady Catherine offers a (spoiler) bribe, and it's common knowledge tomorrow. The author chooses not to use these as tactics that will be methods of bringing out the angst, rather as tactics of comparison with the angst, and that's E's acceptance of D when she (spoiler) can't decide whether she loves him. The juxtaposition is well done, but because of the honesty, the book seems rather simplistic and at times almost boring. Not really boring, just on the edge of it. It's like that cover image that's been used on other books. It's nice and works well with the surprise of the Pemberley on the bottom, but it's almost bland. That is, until Darcy finds out E's secret--then the angst hits the fan. So the first half of the book wasn't as good as the second.
Editing appeared as if the author cared about punctuation, grammar, and language, and I suspect all the errors were unknown to her. The language slips were only discernible to the most critical of readers, as they were non-Regency words that are routinely used by authors and that no one seems to know are post-Regency: neckline, sheet music, modiste, engagement notice, headed. There was a Bennett, a "write one another," and a "demurred" for "declined." For a self-published book, this was a small number of errors.
I had trouble deciding if this was a four or five star since it didn't compel me to read it every night like some books do, and the fact was that the first half left me wantinng. However, I believe this book was well written to its premise, and therefore must give it credit for completion of its purpose. Whenever I'm at a quandary this way, I tend to mark up.
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF writer and could be criticized for writing a review since it could be misconstrued as a conflict of interest; however, my reviews are impartial and honest.
Editing appeared as if the author cared about punctuation, grammar, and language, and I suspect all the errors were unknown to her. The language slips were only discernible to the most critical of readers, as they were non-Regency words that are routinely used by authors and that no one seems to know are post-Regency: neckline, sheet music, modiste, engagement notice, headed. There was a Bennett, a "write one another," and a "demurred" for "declined." For a self-published book, this was a small number of errors.
I had trouble deciding if this was a four or five star since it didn't compel me to read it every night like some books do, and the fact was that the first half left me wantinng. However, I believe this book was well written to its premise, and therefore must give it credit for completion of its purpose. Whenever I'm at a quandary this way, I tend to mark up.
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF writer and could be criticized for writing a review since it could be misconstrued as a conflict of interest; however, my reviews are impartial and honest.
September 16, 2018
Lady Catherine fights the HEA
Excellently written story. I enjoy the author a great deal.
Lady Cat has often been written as an evil character but not often written as being relentless with no illegal or immoral deeds. She does EVERYTHING she can to break up Our Dear Couple. She convinces Lord Matlock that he should take Georgiana from Darcy, among other things. Well written and well thought out what-if Lady Cat used all her influence wisely.
On top of that, Lizzie has fibbed to Darcy about loving him when she accepts the second proposal. Darcy doesn’t go ballistic when he finds out, but she looses his trust.
The above 2 what-ifs make for a good story. On top of those there is Mr. and Mrs. Wickham acting poorly and making Lizzie’s marriage to Darcy look like a bad idea to the Fitzwilliams and the Ton.
Lots of problems that need to be recognized and then solved. Complicated times for ODC but the author handles everything well.
Highly recommended.
Excellently written story. I enjoy the author a great deal.
Lady Cat has often been written as an evil character but not often written as being relentless with no illegal or immoral deeds. She does EVERYTHING she can to break up Our Dear Couple. She convinces Lord Matlock that he should take Georgiana from Darcy, among other things. Well written and well thought out what-if Lady Cat used all her influence wisely.
On top of that, Lizzie has fibbed to Darcy about loving him when she accepts the second proposal. Darcy doesn’t go ballistic when he finds out, but she looses his trust.
The above 2 what-ifs make for a good story. On top of those there is Mr. and Mrs. Wickham acting poorly and making Lizzie’s marriage to Darcy look like a bad idea to the Fitzwilliams and the Ton.
Lots of problems that need to be recognized and then solved. Complicated times for ODC but the author handles everything well.
Highly recommended.
October 2, 2018
An enjoyable surprise
As I started Recognizing Love I was reading what I thought was a simple rewording of Pride and Prejudice. But, it quickly became interesting when Darcy proclaimed to Elizabeth he planned to assist the family in finding Lydia and Wickham while still with her at the inn in Lampton. This changed the dynamic and caused the strong feelings of gratitude and indebtedness Darcy feared in canon. Darcy proposes, but Elizabeth questions how to recognize love despite her acceptance. Should she tell Darcy she is still uncertain? A really lovely little story of the importance of honesty in a relationship. What I enjoyed most in Recognizing Love was how well the characters were fleshed out by the author. These were three dimensional people true to Austen, including secondary characters. A very enjoyable read.
As I started Recognizing Love I was reading what I thought was a simple rewording of Pride and Prejudice. But, it quickly became interesting when Darcy proclaimed to Elizabeth he planned to assist the family in finding Lydia and Wickham while still with her at the inn in Lampton. This changed the dynamic and caused the strong feelings of gratitude and indebtedness Darcy feared in canon. Darcy proposes, but Elizabeth questions how to recognize love despite her acceptance. Should she tell Darcy she is still uncertain? A really lovely little story of the importance of honesty in a relationship. What I enjoyed most in Recognizing Love was how well the characters were fleshed out by the author. These were three dimensional people true to Austen, including secondary characters. A very enjoyable read.
July 29, 2019
What If Mr. Darcy Didn’t Leave Lizzy Without Hope at the Inn in Lambton?
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins with Elizabeth’s Tour of Pemberley
SYNOPSIS:
Instead of assuming Elizabeth has “been long desiring his absence” and traveling to London in secret to search out Wickham and Lydia himself, Mr. Darcy stays and shares his plans with her, making sure she understands that she has not lost him as a friend. With the Gardiners, Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth, and Mr. Bennet all working together to salvage Lydia’s reputation and patch up her scandalous affair, what kind of changes does this development produce between them all? What does Mr. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner think as Mr. Darcy involves himself with their family’s affair? What does Elizabeth think when after the chaos and anxiety of securing Lydia’s future, Mr. Darcy suddenly renews his addresses to her?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Elizabeth Sees It All: One of the aspects I enjoyed about this premise was how Elizabeth’s sees and knows it all. She bears witness to all Mr. Darcy’s improved manners, responsible actions, and she cannot help but grow to respect and admire him more. But it isn’t just Elizabeth who Mr. Darcy impressed, Mr. Bennet seems to have a more favorable opinion of the dour and taciturn man who previously called his daughter “tolerable.” I enjoyed seeing how a prolonged interaction between these characters produced some different results.
- Mr. Darcy’s Ardency: Oh, I love that Mr. Darcy couldn’t leave Lizzy feeling distraught without saying something. *sigh* Makes me love him even more! As we already know, post-Hunsford Mr. Darcy is everything that is admirable and wonderful, but what I really enjoyed was seeing his adorable interactions with Lizzy. The moments where his comments make Elizabeth blush and the intense gazes that can’t disguise his love for her just make you want to swoon! And seeing Mr. Darcy’s attempt lover-like speeches and his moments of vulnerability were just All. The. Things.
- What Is Love?: I enjoyed how this premise explored Elizabeth’s mindset and reflection on love. I found her hesitation and uncertainty plausible. Especially since she witnessed all the greatness of Mr. Darcy saving her family firsthand, it would be enough to make anyone pause and want to re-evaluate.
-Family Drama: Hold on to your bonnets, there is some fresh family drama being served in this variation! Poor Darcy and Lizzy never have it easy…especially with relatives like Lydia and Lady Catherine! It is always interesting to see how the stir up trouble, and I definitely liked the just desserts that were served at the end of this tale.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Conflicts Collide: I really enjoyed how there were both internal and external conflicts in this story. My only issue with these conflicts was their timing. With things not exactly resolved between Darcy and Elizabeth the family drama is introduced, takes center stage, and eclipses the previous obstacles Darcy and Elizabeth were facing. Since I do tend to favor internal conflicts more, I was wishing there would have been a more satisfying resolution for the internal conflict before the next one was introduced.
- Some Small Quibbles: Once in awhile there was some dialogue that felt too forward and blunt for the time period, and there was one development with Anne de Bourgh that I would have liked to have seen fleshed out more.
CONCLUSION:
Similar to her first release (Folly and Forgiveness), Lizzy Brandon delivers a thoughtful, emotionally turbulent, and entertaining Pride and Prejudice variation!! Recognizing Love is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy a reflective Elizabeth, a fervently devoted Darcy, and an extremely intractable Lady Catherine! I sincerely hope we see more from this author soon!
Austenesque Reviews
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins with Elizabeth’s Tour of Pemberley
SYNOPSIS:
Instead of assuming Elizabeth has “been long desiring his absence” and traveling to London in secret to search out Wickham and Lydia himself, Mr. Darcy stays and shares his plans with her, making sure she understands that she has not lost him as a friend. With the Gardiners, Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth, and Mr. Bennet all working together to salvage Lydia’s reputation and patch up her scandalous affair, what kind of changes does this development produce between them all? What does Mr. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner think as Mr. Darcy involves himself with their family’s affair? What does Elizabeth think when after the chaos and anxiety of securing Lydia’s future, Mr. Darcy suddenly renews his addresses to her?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Elizabeth Sees It All: One of the aspects I enjoyed about this premise was how Elizabeth’s sees and knows it all. She bears witness to all Mr. Darcy’s improved manners, responsible actions, and she cannot help but grow to respect and admire him more. But it isn’t just Elizabeth who Mr. Darcy impressed, Mr. Bennet seems to have a more favorable opinion of the dour and taciturn man who previously called his daughter “tolerable.” I enjoyed seeing how a prolonged interaction between these characters produced some different results.
- Mr. Darcy’s Ardency: Oh, I love that Mr. Darcy couldn’t leave Lizzy feeling distraught without saying something. *sigh* Makes me love him even more! As we already know, post-Hunsford Mr. Darcy is everything that is admirable and wonderful, but what I really enjoyed was seeing his adorable interactions with Lizzy. The moments where his comments make Elizabeth blush and the intense gazes that can’t disguise his love for her just make you want to swoon! And seeing Mr. Darcy’s attempt lover-like speeches and his moments of vulnerability were just All. The. Things.
- What Is Love?: I enjoyed how this premise explored Elizabeth’s mindset and reflection on love. I found her hesitation and uncertainty plausible. Especially since she witnessed all the greatness of Mr. Darcy saving her family firsthand, it would be enough to make anyone pause and want to re-evaluate.
-Family Drama: Hold on to your bonnets, there is some fresh family drama being served in this variation! Poor Darcy and Lizzy never have it easy…especially with relatives like Lydia and Lady Catherine! It is always interesting to see how the stir up trouble, and I definitely liked the just desserts that were served at the end of this tale.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Conflicts Collide: I really enjoyed how there were both internal and external conflicts in this story. My only issue with these conflicts was their timing. With things not exactly resolved between Darcy and Elizabeth the family drama is introduced, takes center stage, and eclipses the previous obstacles Darcy and Elizabeth were facing. Since I do tend to favor internal conflicts more, I was wishing there would have been a more satisfying resolution for the internal conflict before the next one was introduced.
- Some Small Quibbles: Once in awhile there was some dialogue that felt too forward and blunt for the time period, and there was one development with Anne de Bourgh that I would have liked to have seen fleshed out more.
CONCLUSION:
Similar to her first release (Folly and Forgiveness), Lizzy Brandon delivers a thoughtful, emotionally turbulent, and entertaining Pride and Prejudice variation!! Recognizing Love is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy a reflective Elizabeth, a fervently devoted Darcy, and an extremely intractable Lady Catherine! I sincerely hope we see more from this author soon!
Austenesque Reviews
September 10, 2018
I absolutely loved it!
Utterly romantic, deliciously emotional and highly engaging book.
No kidnappings or carriage-accidents but the interpersonal relationships was fabulously well written and carried the story.
A chaste read.
I adore ODC (Our dear couple) in this story, they felt like Austen's characters.
Enters with a prologue followed by the meeting at Pemberley and does not stray from canon with the dinner with the Bingley sisters. It was eloborated though and I particularly liked interaction between Elizabeth and Caroline...
It deviates from canon from the encounter at Lambton where Elizabeth received the letter from Jane with the devastating news from Longbourne. Unable to leave the distraught Elizabeth without hope... Darcy offers aid to recover Lydia.
Darcy travelled to London with Elizabeth and the Gardiner's, Elizabeth also stayed in London to help manage Lydia when she was discovered.
A second proposal was offered and accepted for quite possible, the wrong reasons... The interactions between ODC after this, tugged severely on my heart strings on several occasions. I love to be moved and this story crept under my skin in an exceptionally clever way. It had depth.
Jane had a tad more backbone or maybe she was just potraited more closely, loved the frankness and the subtle humour she had in her dealings with Elizabeth.
The drama and hostility, apart from what existed between ODC by their own making, came from lady Catherine who where particularly devious in this story. Loved how she was dealt with and the creativity of the Fitzwilliams in thwarting her efforts. Highly entertaining.
Ends with an HEA and a lovely little epilogue.
I loved the characters in this story so much that I would love a sequel, please...
Heartily recommend this book!
I received an ARC if this book.
Utterly romantic, deliciously emotional and highly engaging book.
No kidnappings or carriage-accidents but the interpersonal relationships was fabulously well written and carried the story.
A chaste read.
I adore ODC (Our dear couple) in this story, they felt like Austen's characters.
Enters with a prologue followed by the meeting at Pemberley and does not stray from canon with the dinner with the Bingley sisters. It was eloborated though and I particularly liked interaction between Elizabeth and Caroline...
It deviates from canon from the encounter at Lambton where Elizabeth received the letter from Jane with the devastating news from Longbourne. Unable to leave the distraught Elizabeth without hope... Darcy offers aid to recover Lydia.
Darcy travelled to London with Elizabeth and the Gardiner's, Elizabeth also stayed in London to help manage Lydia when she was discovered.
A second proposal was offered and accepted for quite possible, the wrong reasons... The interactions between ODC after this, tugged severely on my heart strings on several occasions. I love to be moved and this story crept under my skin in an exceptionally clever way. It had depth.
Jane had a tad more backbone or maybe she was just potraited more closely, loved the frankness and the subtle humour she had in her dealings with Elizabeth.
The drama and hostility, apart from what existed between ODC by their own making, came from lady Catherine who where particularly devious in this story. Loved how she was dealt with and the creativity of the Fitzwilliams in thwarting her efforts. Highly entertaining.
Ends with an HEA and a lovely little epilogue.
I loved the characters in this story so much that I would love a sequel, please...
Heartily recommend this book!
I received an ARC if this book.
October 3, 2018
A Dear Delightful Darcy
Enjoyable story with a really romantic Darcy. I loved his repeated belittling his own ability to express his romantic emotions when, in actuality, this is one of the most romantic Darcys to be encountered in a variation book, in quite a while. And though his words were heartfelt, they sounded true to character. In fact, almost every character displayed more reality than usually seen. Well done and recommended.
Enjoyable story with a really romantic Darcy. I loved his repeated belittling his own ability to express his romantic emotions when, in actuality, this is one of the most romantic Darcys to be encountered in a variation book, in quite a while. And though his words were heartfelt, they sounded true to character. In fact, almost every character displayed more reality than usually seen. Well done and recommended.
June 20, 2019
I hadn’t read a book like Recognizing Love for some time and I believe this one is perfect for those who are just now starting to read Pride and Prejudice variations, or for those who want to go back to the simplicity of the genre because it is a clear example of a sweet and romantic what if variation. There are no kidnappings, carriage accidents, marriages with other people, time travelling events or anything of the sorts, it starts with only a small difference in the story and focuses on interpersonal relationships with a simplicity that is beautiful!
The story starts at Pemberley when Mr. Darcy finds Elizabeth visiting the estate with Mr. and Mrs Gardiner. The initial chapters of the book give us a glimpse of the several moments and conversations they might have had during those days until Elizabeth receives Jane’s letter, that is when the “what if” enters this story. So, what if Mr. Darcy didn’t let Elizabeth think he had left her because he no longer wanted an association with her? What if he could not bear to see her suffer like that and told her the truth about his intentions to help find Lydia? What if the Gardiner’s, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy all travelled to London together? What would change if Elizabeth was perfectly aware of Mr. Darcy’s intervention?
After saving Lydia from Wickham, and thinking that by now Elizabeth already loves him, Mr. Darcy proposes for the second time and unlike the Hunsford proposal, this one has a positive outcome. Elizabeth accepts because she believes she will love him with time and is afraid he will not ask a third time, but she is unsure about her feelings and is not able to tell him the truth. From this moment, we will see a lot of Elizabeth’s introspection as she will continuously analyse her own feelings for Mr. Darcy, and that will be the hot topic in the entire novel.
The first part of the book is more slow-paced and I confess that Elizabeth’s uncertainty about her feelings was starting to get to my nerves, especially because I believe that she was already in love with Mr. Darcy at Pemberley, but the second part of the book is more fast paced with several events occurring, including our dear couple coming together to achieve a common goal.
The story becomes more and more appealing to the reader as it progresses and Mr. Darcy’s family becomes a point of interest. I kept thinking what each one of them would do or say, and I was very pleased to see Lady Matlock’s reactions as well as Richard’s and Anne’s. These two were a wonderful surprise and I was happy to see the writer bringing them into the story. Lady Catherine on the other hand was as annoying as she could be, but if it wasn’t for her our dear couple would not have come out of this story with a love so strong, so I have to thank her for that 😉
This book is a clean and very sweet story where Mr. Darcy’s devotion will captivate most readers, he truly is the best of men, and readers who enjoy sweet romances will certainly fall for him 🙂 Recognising Love is proof that simple changes in the story are enough to make readers enjoy the book and I recommend it to those looking for a romance without major angst moments.
The story starts at Pemberley when Mr. Darcy finds Elizabeth visiting the estate with Mr. and Mrs Gardiner. The initial chapters of the book give us a glimpse of the several moments and conversations they might have had during those days until Elizabeth receives Jane’s letter, that is when the “what if” enters this story. So, what if Mr. Darcy didn’t let Elizabeth think he had left her because he no longer wanted an association with her? What if he could not bear to see her suffer like that and told her the truth about his intentions to help find Lydia? What if the Gardiner’s, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy all travelled to London together? What would change if Elizabeth was perfectly aware of Mr. Darcy’s intervention?
After saving Lydia from Wickham, and thinking that by now Elizabeth already loves him, Mr. Darcy proposes for the second time and unlike the Hunsford proposal, this one has a positive outcome. Elizabeth accepts because she believes she will love him with time and is afraid he will not ask a third time, but she is unsure about her feelings and is not able to tell him the truth. From this moment, we will see a lot of Elizabeth’s introspection as she will continuously analyse her own feelings for Mr. Darcy, and that will be the hot topic in the entire novel.
The first part of the book is more slow-paced and I confess that Elizabeth’s uncertainty about her feelings was starting to get to my nerves, especially because I believe that she was already in love with Mr. Darcy at Pemberley, but the second part of the book is more fast paced with several events occurring, including our dear couple coming together to achieve a common goal.
The story becomes more and more appealing to the reader as it progresses and Mr. Darcy’s family becomes a point of interest. I kept thinking what each one of them would do or say, and I was very pleased to see Lady Matlock’s reactions as well as Richard’s and Anne’s. These two were a wonderful surprise and I was happy to see the writer bringing them into the story. Lady Catherine on the other hand was as annoying as she could be, but if it wasn’t for her our dear couple would not have come out of this story with a love so strong, so I have to thank her for that 😉
This book is a clean and very sweet story where Mr. Darcy’s devotion will captivate most readers, he truly is the best of men, and readers who enjoy sweet romances will certainly fall for him 🙂 Recognising Love is proof that simple changes in the story are enough to make readers enjoy the book and I recommend it to those looking for a romance without major angst moments.
December 17, 2019
2.5 rounded up to 3. There were some great things about this story, but also some that didn't sit well with me. I enjoyed the author's portrayal of Lord and Lady Matlock and I felt she did a great job of being true to our dear characters. I think I just kept rolling my eyes at Lizzy's "I just don't know if I love him" thoughts that were constantly in the pages of this book. The whole idea of "I can't marry him if I'm not madly in love with him" concept is of modern times. Being "in love" with your spouse in those days was a luxury that most did not expect or require. It may have been more reasonable and easier to stomach had she no affection or still questioned his character or loyalty, but the fact that she admits to wanting to marry him and being afraid to lose him and acknowledges he is the only man she has had these feelings for and still makes a huge issue of "i just don't know if I'm in love" really got on my nerves. She came across quite petulant and the fact that she would cause him such pain over it made me kind of angry with her and I found myself thinking she was a spoiled child. I also found it unbelievable that she would be supported by her family in her insistence that she tell him, "hey, I admire, respect, feel affection for you, but sorry, I just don't love you". They would have thought she was nuts and in those times, and any responsible relation would not have joined in or encouraged her in making a huge deal, causing pain and possibly losing her relationship over this. I don't mean to be harsh, but that she doesn't feel a burning romantic love is the whole premise for this book and I struggled to get through it.
March 10, 2024
This story has some pretty minor deviations from canon that are explored in their full consequences. It extends the Lakes Trip stop at Pemberley so that Darcy and Elizabeth get more acquainted. When the Lydia letter arrives, they're basically courting. Contrary to P&P, Darcy doesn't do anything secretively and returns to London with Elizabeth where both attend Lydia's marriage to Dickham. The main plot involves the ramifications of Darcy's engagement to a family decidedly below his own and assailed by controversy. He loves Elizabeth, but is that love enough to weather very legitimate concerns related to her family and Elizabeth deceiving him about her feelings?
As a demonstration of how good this novel is, there are several speeches from a totally in-character Lady Catherine de Bourgh that I agreed with. The Bennets have rarely looked worse than they do in this novel and given the Fitzwilliams' station, Lizzy's uncertainties, and Lydia's behavior, all her scruples with Elizabeth's connections seem totally warranted in context. I think having a ridiculous character like Lady Catherine make speeches that add legitimate drama and highlight the real challenges of the match gives this book a realism and legitimate sense of conflict that's often missing in these JAFF books. This is also the rare JAFF book where Elizabeth is the one primarily at fault-- there is no Darcy getting over himself. He is already the perfect man from the start of this story. Her flaw in this book is totally reasonable, but it's clear that she's the driving force of all the problems in their relationship, due to communication, no less. The book is intricately plotted and well-written. The psychology of Elizabeth and Darcy make sense, the conflict isn't sensational or melodramatic, and nobody is OOC. It's everything you hope for in JAFF- a well-executed, pretty low angst, in-character story about ODC figuring their romance out and communicating.
As a demonstration of how good this novel is, there are several speeches from a totally in-character Lady Catherine de Bourgh that I agreed with. The Bennets have rarely looked worse than they do in this novel and given the Fitzwilliams' station, Lizzy's uncertainties, and Lydia's behavior, all her scruples with Elizabeth's connections seem totally warranted in context. I think having a ridiculous character like Lady Catherine make speeches that add legitimate drama and highlight the real challenges of the match gives this book a realism and legitimate sense of conflict that's often missing in these JAFF books. This is also the rare JAFF book where Elizabeth is the one primarily at fault-- there is no Darcy getting over himself. He is already the perfect man from the start of this story. Her flaw in this book is totally reasonable, but it's clear that she's the driving force of all the problems in their relationship, due to communication, no less. The book is intricately plotted and well-written. The psychology of Elizabeth and Darcy make sense, the conflict isn't sensational or melodramatic, and nobody is OOC. It's everything you hope for in JAFF- a well-executed, pretty low angst, in-character story about ODC figuring their romance out and communicating.
December 30, 2018
Charming
This is a sweet, romantic tale that streamlines the events leading up to Elizabeth 's acceptance of Darcy 's proposal. It is after her acceptance that most of the problems occur, starting with her inner struggles with the concept of love. Elizabeth isn't sure she knows what being in love feels like, and has great guilt that she accepted Darcy without certainty, only being certain of feeling respect and admiration. A big deal is made of this uncertainty, including some quite harsh and unkind comments made by Jane when Elizabeth confides in her. I felt this particular part of the story was too out of character for Jane, and that the whole subject was getting a little tiresome, given that Elizabeth shared her guilty feelings with practically everyone except Darcy. Even Lady Catherine is privy to her doubts! However, given the title of the book I know this is a central topic.
The fun is just beginning as Lydia is her worst self, Darcy discovers Elizabeth's lack of love, Lady Catherine is her worst self and society in general is ready to challenge everything. Through it all Darcy is patient and loving while, for some reason, Lizzy still can't make up her mind. She finally has her epiphany very late in the story and all is well. The story is well written and enjoyable, the editing is well done with a minimum of errors, and it was a nice way to spend an afternoon.
This is a sweet, romantic tale that streamlines the events leading up to Elizabeth 's acceptance of Darcy 's proposal. It is after her acceptance that most of the problems occur, starting with her inner struggles with the concept of love. Elizabeth isn't sure she knows what being in love feels like, and has great guilt that she accepted Darcy without certainty, only being certain of feeling respect and admiration. A big deal is made of this uncertainty, including some quite harsh and unkind comments made by Jane when Elizabeth confides in her. I felt this particular part of the story was too out of character for Jane, and that the whole subject was getting a little tiresome, given that Elizabeth shared her guilty feelings with practically everyone except Darcy. Even Lady Catherine is privy to her doubts! However, given the title of the book I know this is a central topic.
The fun is just beginning as Lydia is her worst self, Darcy discovers Elizabeth's lack of love, Lady Catherine is her worst self and society in general is ready to challenge everything. Through it all Darcy is patient and loving while, for some reason, Lizzy still can't make up her mind. She finally has her epiphany very late in the story and all is well. The story is well written and enjoyable, the editing is well done with a minimum of errors, and it was a nice way to spend an afternoon.
June 4, 2022
Ok
It rambled on here and there. The idea Lizzy didn't know if she loved Darcy & accepted him anyway wasn't enjoyable.
The author repeated so many conversations, between Lizzy and various people, I wanted to throw my Kindle out the window.
They finally got engaged, married and moved to Pemberly in a short time compared to all the rest of the plot.
The epilogue at the end, kind of cleared things up, gut, felt rushed.
I,personally, am not a fan if them. They tend rush the ending in an unsatisfying manner.
This is the first ( I believe) I've read of this author's story and am not impressed. If the rest of her books are thusly, I doubt ill read anymore.
I usually save the P&P books on my Kindle to reread, I don't think I will this one.
It rambled on here and there. The idea Lizzy didn't know if she loved Darcy & accepted him anyway wasn't enjoyable.
The author repeated so many conversations, between Lizzy and various people, I wanted to throw my Kindle out the window.
They finally got engaged, married and moved to Pemberly in a short time compared to all the rest of the plot.
The epilogue at the end, kind of cleared things up, gut, felt rushed.
I,personally, am not a fan if them. They tend rush the ending in an unsatisfying manner.
This is the first ( I believe) I've read of this author's story and am not impressed. If the rest of her books are thusly, I doubt ill read anymore.
I usually save the P&P books on my Kindle to reread, I don't think I will this one.
January 16, 2019
A likely re-read, which pushes this to 5 stars. I like that this variation sticks to the main plot right up until Lydia elopes. Darcy tells Elizabeth he’s helping rather than simply leaving. It’s an interesting jumping off point.
I enjoyed the interactions between D & E - sweet, but not cloying, and limited misunderstandings. Lady Catherine’s ploys may be a bit over the top, but I still enjoyed it.
I enjoyed the interactions between D & E - sweet, but not cloying, and limited misunderstandings. Lady Catherine’s ploys may be a bit over the top, but I still enjoyed it.
April 17, 2019
What a great variation. I loved It! I won't write a review that gives you all the elements of the storyline. There are plenty of excellent reviews here. I will say that if you love Darcy and Elizabeth and a well written romance, then you will love this one. I particularly like that Darcy is quite the romantic once he feels his llfeelings of love are returned. Read It! You will be glad you did!
September 27, 2019
I would really give this 3.5 stars. I enjoyed this story. I love the longer interaction of courting and closeness that Darcy and Elizabeth have in this variation. I read reviews that had me concerned of the type and length of pain and misunderstanding between Elizabeth and Darcy but I was thankful that it was not as bad as I expected. However, Lady Catherine de Bourgh was a huge pain and aggravation in this storyline.
September 28, 2018
Gets better as you go
Another reason I would have trouble writing a book: I can think of a better response that Lizzy should have given than "I will". But the whole premise of the book revolves around that response. Once accepting that and Lizzy and Darcy's heart-to-heart, I think I began to enjoy it more.
Another reason I would have trouble writing a book: I can think of a better response that Lizzy should have given than "I will". But the whole premise of the book revolves around that response. Once accepting that and Lizzy and Darcy's heart-to-heart, I think I began to enjoy it more.
September 16, 2018
Well done!
This was a entertaining read. I enjoyed it and was able to complete it in less than a day, while hurricane Florance blow and rained down. What a way to keep my mind off the storm!
This was a entertaining read. I enjoyed it and was able to complete it in less than a day, while hurricane Florance blow and rained down. What a way to keep my mind off the storm!
November 25, 2018
An excellent variation of Pride and Prejudice
I fully enjoyed reading this variation. I have read many and this is one of my favorites. Characters are well developed and the plot twist is well thought out.
I fully enjoyed reading this variation. I have read many and this is one of my favorites. Characters are well developed and the plot twist is well thought out.
abandoned
December 18, 2025DNF at 78%
Tried to finish but i simply couldn't. Nothing kept me engaged, and i feel like it lacked any emotions. E&D interactions took a back seat and i feel like the book should have focused more on E&D issues rather than wasting time in Lady C. Feel like now the entire focus is on Lady C.
Tried to finish but i simply couldn't. Nothing kept me engaged, and i feel like it lacked any emotions. E&D interactions took a back seat and i feel like the book should have focused more on E&D issues rather than wasting time in Lady C. Feel like now the entire focus is on Lady C.
September 15, 2018
A lovely story!
I enjoyed this so much: an eloquent, romantic Darcy and a fretful, doubting Elizabeth on a search for happiness and peace of mind.
I enjoyed this so much: an eloquent, romantic Darcy and a fretful, doubting Elizabeth on a search for happiness and peace of mind.
September 26, 2018
Wonderful variation
This as a fantastic find and I have read many, many variations. Thank you for writing this particular variation...it was unique in many ways
This as a fantastic find and I have read many, many variations. Thank you for writing this particular variation...it was unique in many ways
October 19, 2018
3.5 Stars
A sedate but still entertaining read. I enjoyed it but the pace was a bit slow. Mr. Darcy appears to have no faults, which takes some of the spice out of the plot.
A sedate but still entertaining read. I enjoyed it but the pace was a bit slow. Mr. Darcy appears to have no faults, which takes some of the spice out of the plot.
January 17, 2019
I'm a sucker for P and P fan fiction. Guilty pleasure read.
November 10, 2020
A sweet P&P variation in which Elizabeth knows about Darcy's help in locating Lydia from the start, accepts his second proposal and then wonders how she can tell whether she's in love or not.
December 20, 2020
A sweet variation on the Pride and Prejudice story.
May 23, 2021
Same Old Lizzy
Doubting Lizzy. She remains with the one lingering emotion, enough to drive men away but what about Mr. D?An interesting read.
Doubting Lizzy. She remains with the one lingering emotion, enough to drive men away but what about Mr. D?An interesting read.
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