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Where There's a FitzWILLiam Darcy: There's a Way
To him that will, ways are never wanting. ELIZABETH BENNET’s world has turned upon its head. Not only is her family about to be banished from their beloved Longbourn after her father’s sudden death, but Mr. Darcy has appeared upon her threshold, not to renew his proposal, as she first feared, but, rather, to serve as Mr. Collins’s agent in taking an accounting of the estate’s “treasures” before her father’s cousin steals away all her memories of the place. FITZWILLIAM DARCY certainly has no desire to encounter Elizabeth Bennet again so soon after her mordant refusal of his hand in marriage, but when his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, strikes a bargain in which her ladyship agrees to provide his Cousin Anne a London Season if Darcy will become Mr. Collins’s agent in Hertfordshire, Darcy accepts in hopes he can convince Miss Elizabeth to think better of him than she, obviously, does. Yet, how can he persuade the woman to recognize his inherent sense of honor, when his inventory of Longbourn’s entailed land and real properties announces the date she and her family will be homeless?
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 7, 2018
88 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
Regina Jeffers
131 books704 followersRegina Jeffers, an award-winning author of historical cozy mysteries, Austenesque sequels and retellings, as well as Regency era romances, has worn many hats over her lifetime: daughter, student, military brat, wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, tax preparer, journalist, choreographer, Broadway dancer, theatre director, history buff, grant writer, media literacy consultant, and author. Living outside of Charlotte, NC, Jeffers writes novels that take the ordinary and adds a bit of mayhem, while mastering tension in her own life with a bit of gardening and the exuberance of her “grand joys.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 11, 2018
A very enjoyable and different approach to some of the events in canon. First, know that you have to suspend any qualms about OOC behavior as Darcy agrees to supervise and inventory the transition of Longbourn and all that transfers with the entail and as Lady Catherine is the one who has him doing so. When her vicar, Mr. Collins inherits upon Mr. Bennet's sudden death she does not want him departing until she can interview and appoint a new parson. She agrees to never importune her nephew about marrying Anne again if he will agree to travel to Longbourn as Mr. Collins' representative. Then we have a Mr. Bennet who has sent up a Treasure Hunt of sorts but this one is for his missing will and the papers having to do with a property entailed to unwed descendants in Gardiner line. Hidden from their knowledge it the fact that they need to discover a ledger no one even knows exists.
Elizabeth is the one who works with Fitzwilliam but at times Jane and/or Mary step in. Mrs. Bennet must be tamed as the information they seek cannot become known to the community. Collins might stop their inventory of the household if he thinks they might discover something which could in any way take away from his possession of that estate and its goods. Is Darcy acting for Collins or does his love for Elizabeth taint his purpose for being there on a daily basis?
Clues are not uncovered all at once and Bennet's man in London seems to be just a little bit shady. Gardiner and Philips have not been brought in on the secrets by their brother-in-law and although they offer what help they can neither one is a resource to keep the Bennets out of the hedgerows. (Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth in Hunsford was the evening before she learned of her father's death.) So even though she thinks he may still have tender regard for her she will not accept any further offer out of pity or even necessity. She will become a companion or governess, if necessary.
We read mostly of Darcy's POV and his thoughts are so full of yearning. He respects why she refused him...now. But did she ever read his letter? Wickham is still in town. The family is in mourning; a fact which brings much rebellion on the part of Lydia in particular. They only have a month in which to settle things and it doesn't look good.
Enjoyed this story; especially Darcy's thoughts about Elizabeth. She has not properly mourned her father...yet. And as he knows the pain of having lost a father, that concerns him.
Elizabeth is the one who works with Fitzwilliam but at times Jane and/or Mary step in. Mrs. Bennet must be tamed as the information they seek cannot become known to the community. Collins might stop their inventory of the household if he thinks they might discover something which could in any way take away from his possession of that estate and its goods. Is Darcy acting for Collins or does his love for Elizabeth taint his purpose for being there on a daily basis?
Clues are not uncovered all at once and Bennet's man in London seems to be just a little bit shady. Gardiner and Philips have not been brought in on the secrets by their brother-in-law and although they offer what help they can neither one is a resource to keep the Bennets out of the hedgerows. (Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth in Hunsford was the evening before she learned of her father's death.) So even though she thinks he may still have tender regard for her she will not accept any further offer out of pity or even necessity. She will become a companion or governess, if necessary.
We read mostly of Darcy's POV and his thoughts are so full of yearning. He respects why she refused him...now. But did she ever read his letter? Wickham is still in town. The family is in mourning; a fact which brings much rebellion on the part of Lydia in particular. They only have a month in which to settle things and it doesn't look good.
Enjoyed this story; especially Darcy's thoughts about Elizabeth. She has not properly mourned her father...yet. And as he knows the pain of having lost a father, that concerns him.
July 13, 2024
A man's dying is more the survivors' affair than his own. ~ Thomas Mann
Mr. Bennet has died suddenly, unexpectedly.
His daughter Elizabeth is at Hunsford when she receives word of his death. In fact, she has just been handed a letter when her friend calls to her in the woods.
Fitzwilliam Darcy learns of the bereavement at the same moment. He arranges swift transport for Elizabeth to return home, even though the woman had destroyed his hopes the previous evening.
The next day, Darcy is shocked by Lady Catherine’s demand that he travel to Meryton and take charge of Mr. Collins’ property until the clergyman can be replaced – those artful Bennets could steal the man blind, after all!
Darcy is unwilling to complete the task because first of all he dislikes Collins and owes him nothing and second of all he is reluctant to see Elizabeth again. His aunt overcomes his objections and Darcy arrives in Hertfordshire to begin his task.
We never bury the dead, son. We take them with us. It's the price of living. ~ Mark Goffman and Jose Molina
Elizabeth is home and must take charge of her Mother and sisters. With no time to grieve, she must aid Darcy in his inventory of the household possessions. Even more distressing, no copy of her Father’s Last Will can be found. It is known that Mr. Bennet made a revised Will about the time of the Collins visit the previous Autumn. He would have saved a copy in a safe place. But where is it? Then, a few words on a page hidden in a favorite book point the way.
A possible home is available from a legacy from Mrs. Bennet’s family. Darcy and Elizabeth must learn more about the legacy and the restrictions upon residence there. They are thrown together again and again and begin to work as a team.
Elizabeth has felt her Father’s presence several times both at Hunsford and in Meryton. But is she the only sister having these supernatural visitations?
The spirits of the dead hallow a house, for me. ~ Mark Twain
Will Bingley return to Hertfordshire and Jane Bennet?
Will Elizabeth overcome her prejudices and accept a betrothal?
Will all the sisters agree to the restrictions upon their lives if the family moves to their great-great-grandmother’s home?
This is a clean, well-edited story. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys JAFF.
He who has gone, so we but cherish his memory, abides with us, more potent, nay, more present than the living man. ~ Antoine de Saint-Exupery
Mr. Bennet has died suddenly, unexpectedly.
His daughter Elizabeth is at Hunsford when she receives word of his death. In fact, she has just been handed a letter when her friend calls to her in the woods.
Fitzwilliam Darcy learns of the bereavement at the same moment. He arranges swift transport for Elizabeth to return home, even though the woman had destroyed his hopes the previous evening.
The next day, Darcy is shocked by Lady Catherine’s demand that he travel to Meryton and take charge of Mr. Collins’ property until the clergyman can be replaced – those artful Bennets could steal the man blind, after all!
Darcy is unwilling to complete the task because first of all he dislikes Collins and owes him nothing and second of all he is reluctant to see Elizabeth again. His aunt overcomes his objections and Darcy arrives in Hertfordshire to begin his task.
We never bury the dead, son. We take them with us. It's the price of living. ~ Mark Goffman and Jose Molina
Elizabeth is home and must take charge of her Mother and sisters. With no time to grieve, she must aid Darcy in his inventory of the household possessions. Even more distressing, no copy of her Father’s Last Will can be found. It is known that Mr. Bennet made a revised Will about the time of the Collins visit the previous Autumn. He would have saved a copy in a safe place. But where is it? Then, a few words on a page hidden in a favorite book point the way.
A possible home is available from a legacy from Mrs. Bennet’s family. Darcy and Elizabeth must learn more about the legacy and the restrictions upon residence there. They are thrown together again and again and begin to work as a team.
Elizabeth has felt her Father’s presence several times both at Hunsford and in Meryton. But is she the only sister having these supernatural visitations?
The spirits of the dead hallow a house, for me. ~ Mark Twain
Will Bingley return to Hertfordshire and Jane Bennet?
Will Elizabeth overcome her prejudices and accept a betrothal?
Will all the sisters agree to the restrictions upon their lives if the family moves to their great-great-grandmother’s home?
This is a clean, well-edited story. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys JAFF.
He who has gone, so we but cherish his memory, abides with us, more potent, nay, more present than the living man. ~ Antoine de Saint-Exupery
December 22, 2018
One thing about this book I have to say is that it was meticulously researched. I now know more than I probably needed about English inheritance laws and leases.
Our story begins the morning after the DP@H when Lizzy's acceptance of Mr. Darcy's letter is interrupted by Mr. Collins with dire news, Mr. Bennet has gone to the great book room in the sky and Lizzy must rush home to mourn. I turns out that Mr. Bennet's sense of humor was a bit more warped than most peoples because he has turned locating his will into a scavenger hunt for his cleverest of daughters. Into this chaos comes Mr. Darcy serving as Mr. Collins agent at the behest of Lady Catherine. These weeks of forced cooperation will open Lizzy's eyes to Mr. Darcy's good points and have her falling in love with him.
So HEA right? right? No the author has a ton of little sneaky twists to throw in like an possible inheritance that requires a daughter who has reached her majority to remain unwed to claim and another estate... And of course Lydia almost ruining everything by running off with Wickham. But then we get to a HEA, sort of, which leads to my next not so thrilled about.
Our story begins the morning after the DP@H when Lizzy's acceptance of Mr. Darcy's letter is interrupted by Mr. Collins with dire news, Mr. Bennet has gone to the great book room in the sky and Lizzy must rush home to mourn. I turns out that Mr. Bennet's sense of humor was a bit more warped than most peoples because he has turned locating his will into a scavenger hunt for his cleverest of daughters. Into this chaos comes Mr. Darcy serving as Mr. Collins agent at the behest of Lady Catherine. These weeks of forced cooperation will open Lizzy's eyes to Mr. Darcy's good points and have her falling in love with him.
So HEA right? right? No the author has a ton of little sneaky twists to throw in like an possible inheritance that requires a daughter who has reached her majority to remain unwed to claim and another estate... And of course Lydia almost ruining everything by running off with Wickham. But then we get to a HEA, sort of, which leads to my next not so thrilled about.
September 10, 2018
Another wonderful read from Regina Jeffers
This was a delightful read. It has pathos and humour and the growth of the various characters is great to read. This is a book where not only Elizabeth and Darcy experience growth and changes, but so does every member of the Bennet family. Although it starts with the sad premise of Mr. Bennet's death, the journey through the book and the ending are everything you could ask for.
This was a delightful read. It has pathos and humour and the growth of the various characters is great to read. This is a book where not only Elizabeth and Darcy experience growth and changes, but so does every member of the Bennet family. Although it starts with the sad premise of Mr. Bennet's death, the journey through the book and the ending are everything you could ask for.
September 26, 2018
So happy that Regina Jeffers put this book out recently-- the world of Jane Austen Fan Fiction has missed her!
Elizabeth gets news of her father's sudden death at Hunsford--after Darcy's marriage proposal, her refusal, and receipt of his letter, but before she has had a chance to read it. Darcy intervenes to get her back to Longbourn quickly, where she finds the household in complete chaos. Rather than having any opportunity to mourn her beloved father, Elizabeth finds herself overwhelmed with the responsibilities of the estate, her mother and her sisters.
For once, Lady Catherine comprehends that Darcy is NOT going to cave into her demands and marry Anne. Ms. Jeffers has Lady C. use this concession to coerce him into acting on Mr. Collins' behalf in securing his inheritance so she doesn't have the bother of being without a cleric while she searches for his replacement. This sends Darcy back to Hertfordshire determined to protect Elizabeth's family more than Mr. Collins' interests.
I love this unique premise, which throws Elizabeth and Darcy back together for lots of page time. She still hasn't read his letter and is certain he will not be a fair arbiter. He would rather not have to face her, knowing his presence can only further upset her while she's dealing with the turmoil of her father's death.
What I'm not thrilled about is the "treasure hunt" Mr. Bennet sets up, with riddles leading to scattered pieces of information vital to the family's financial survival. He may be an indolent father, but this is too cruel a burden to place on his favorite daughter. The eventual solution shows impressive historical research about the nature of granting the use of a property to a family under very specific circumstances. I wish this had been presented without the elaborate mystery, which struck me as way beyond credible and bugged me in those sections. However, I did enjoy the little supernatural elements thrown in.
Overall, the story is unique and interesting with plenty of steamy build-up between Darcy and Elizabeth. It's nice that Mary gets a larger role than usual here, too. Lydia is, well...Lydia, and there's a twist to her usual path with Mr. Wickham. Jane's storyline is also considerably different.
The flow and quality of the writing is excellent, as I'd expect from one of Ms. Jeffers' books.
Content is clean.
Elizabeth gets news of her father's sudden death at Hunsford--after Darcy's marriage proposal, her refusal, and receipt of his letter, but before she has had a chance to read it. Darcy intervenes to get her back to Longbourn quickly, where she finds the household in complete chaos. Rather than having any opportunity to mourn her beloved father, Elizabeth finds herself overwhelmed with the responsibilities of the estate, her mother and her sisters.
For once, Lady Catherine comprehends that Darcy is NOT going to cave into her demands and marry Anne. Ms. Jeffers has Lady C. use this concession to coerce him into acting on Mr. Collins' behalf in securing his inheritance so she doesn't have the bother of being without a cleric while she searches for his replacement. This sends Darcy back to Hertfordshire determined to protect Elizabeth's family more than Mr. Collins' interests.
I love this unique premise, which throws Elizabeth and Darcy back together for lots of page time. She still hasn't read his letter and is certain he will not be a fair arbiter. He would rather not have to face her, knowing his presence can only further upset her while she's dealing with the turmoil of her father's death.
What I'm not thrilled about is the "treasure hunt" Mr. Bennet sets up, with riddles leading to scattered pieces of information vital to the family's financial survival. He may be an indolent father, but this is too cruel a burden to place on his favorite daughter. The eventual solution shows impressive historical research about the nature of granting the use of a property to a family under very specific circumstances. I wish this had been presented without the elaborate mystery, which struck me as way beyond credible and bugged me in those sections. However, I did enjoy the little supernatural elements thrown in.
Overall, the story is unique and interesting with plenty of steamy build-up between Darcy and Elizabeth. It's nice that Mary gets a larger role than usual here, too. Lydia is, well...Lydia, and there's a twist to her usual path with Mr. Wickham. Jane's storyline is also considerably different.
The flow and quality of the writing is excellent, as I'd expect from one of Ms. Jeffers' books.
Content is clean.
September 13, 2018
A nail-bitingly thrilling read but I thought the tone of the book was a bit harsh...
Lovely banter between ODC though.
A chaste read.
Mr Bennet passed unexpectedly while Elizabeth was visiting Charlotte. The proposal had taken place and the letter had shifted hands but she had not read it.
Mr Darcy was cajoled into acting on Mr Collins behalf and inspect the "handing over" of the Longbourne property, by his aunt Catherine. ODC was immediately thrown into each others company with the task of jotting down the inventory. Soon, the treasure hunt of finding Mr Bennet's will was added to their work load.
Liked the way Elizabeth came to understand Mr Darcy better. Other obstacles was roughing up their path to an HEA though and although Jeffers had me seriously doubting there could be a HEA for a while, I was not utterly convinced by the plot.
Ends in a lovely epilogue.
Recommend
Lovely banter between ODC though.
A chaste read.
Mr Bennet passed unexpectedly while Elizabeth was visiting Charlotte. The proposal had taken place and the letter had shifted hands but she had not read it.
Mr Darcy was cajoled into acting on Mr Collins behalf and inspect the "handing over" of the Longbourne property, by his aunt Catherine. ODC was immediately thrown into each others company with the task of jotting down the inventory. Soon, the treasure hunt of finding Mr Bennet's will was added to their work load.
Liked the way Elizabeth came to understand Mr Darcy better. Other obstacles was roughing up their path to an HEA though and although Jeffers had me seriously doubting there could be a HEA for a while, I was not utterly convinced by the plot.
Ends in a lovely epilogue.
Recommend
September 8, 2021
Mr. Bennet passes and has hidden his will
Even from the grave Lizzy’s father reaches out and mocks everyone and puts has family in peril. But Darcy will try to save them. Pretty good story except….
…how Lizzy is written as an obstinate young lady. It’s as if Mr. Bennet is reaching out from the grave and every way he molded Lizzy had made her silly and ridiculous so he can laugh at her from the grave.
Things go poorly for Own Dear Couple and all of a sudden toward the end of the story they decide all the ways they have hurt each other do not matter and they marry.
Interesting premise but a read once story.
Even from the grave Lizzy’s father reaches out and mocks everyone and puts has family in peril. But Darcy will try to save them. Pretty good story except….
…how Lizzy is written as an obstinate young lady. It’s as if Mr. Bennet is reaching out from the grave and every way he molded Lizzy had made her silly and ridiculous so he can laugh at her from the grave.
Things go poorly for Own Dear Couple and all of a sudden toward the end of the story they decide all the ways they have hurt each other do not matter and they marry.
Interesting premise but a read once story.
September 10, 2018
A Good Read with a touch of curiosity
This kept me intrigued throughout even though it was a bit of a mishmash. There's a bit of mystery, a bit of whimsy, a devoted Darcy and a dutiful Elizabeth all contributing to a good story that just, somehow, misses the mark. Worth reading for the historical information that was well researched but hot kisses and original obstacles left this reader almost as frustrated as Darcy and Lizzy.
This kept me intrigued throughout even though it was a bit of a mishmash. There's a bit of mystery, a bit of whimsy, a devoted Darcy and a dutiful Elizabeth all contributing to a good story that just, somehow, misses the mark. Worth reading for the historical information that was well researched but hot kisses and original obstacles left this reader almost as frustrated as Darcy and Lizzy.
September 7, 2021
Truly delightful
Reviewed in Canada on February 6, 2019
I loved this variation and the way the story unfolded. Miss Mary was wonderful and a poignant moment between her and Darcy over a book found in her father’s library brought me to tears, as did a letter from Jane to Darcy. I think this is definite must read for those who love to read P&P variations.
Reviewed in Canada on February 6, 2019
I loved this variation and the way the story unfolded. Miss Mary was wonderful and a poignant moment between her and Darcy over a book found in her father’s library brought me to tears, as did a letter from Jane to Darcy. I think this is definite must read for those who love to read P&P variations.
January 10, 2019
I love how Ms. Jeffers, in researching all things historical, takes a nugget from it and wraps a unique premise for a story around Darcy and Elizabeth.
"Will there never be an easy path to winning Miss Elizabeth's heart?" (quote from the book)
Darcy's proposal at Hunsford has been refused. As he is handing Elizabeth his letter, Charlotte comes running with an express, Mr. Bennet has suddenly died. In her panic, Elizabeth shoves the letter in the pocket of her dress and departs. Darcy provides his carriage to take her to Longbourn expecting to never see her again.
Lady Catherine in her imperious and manipulative way, has Darcy representing Mr. Collins in cataloguing the contents of Longbourn.
Darcy, after learning more details of what chaos the Bennet family is under, is not pleased with the burden Mr. Bennet has placed on Elizabeth. He offers his help to them as well. This is such a poignant story and at times my heart ached for Elizabeth, Jane and Mary. Mary was such a delight and I loved her role. I loved the way she and Mr. Darcy connected. Jane is another who surprised me, and the twists and turns of this unique premise had me devouring the pages. I do, however, wished that there was more development of Mrs. Bennet and her daughters as they began their new life without Mr. Bennet. This is a small quibble though, as I didn't want the story to end.
May 13, 2022
I pushed off reading for such a long time, now I don't know why I did. I loved it!
The balance between mourning, desperation to find a solution for the Bennet's and romance was perfect! You can't help but feel for the family about to be put out, with literally only the clothes they wear. Darcy finding a solution from his aunt's harrangs regarding Anne, does as she bids on her behalf for Collins.
The mystery, hidden by clues and riddles left to Elizabeth from her father were so good. At first it's like - why would he torture her- but if you know how much he loves her, you get that it is his way of helping her deal with his loss and heal. And partly he gets to laugh at them all a bit from the other side.
Through the process E learns to let go her anger towards D and see his better side. The romance was slowly and elegantly done.
With Lydia not going to Brighton-no Wickham! a bonus treat!!
A definite reread.
The balance between mourning, desperation to find a solution for the Bennet's and romance was perfect! You can't help but feel for the family about to be put out, with literally only the clothes they wear. Darcy finding a solution from his aunt's harrangs regarding Anne, does as she bids on her behalf for Collins.
The mystery, hidden by clues and riddles left to Elizabeth from her father were so good. At first it's like - why would he torture her- but if you know how much he loves her, you get that it is his way of helping her deal with his loss and heal. And partly he gets to laugh at them all a bit from the other side.
Through the process E learns to let go her anger towards D and see his better side. The romance was slowly and elegantly done.
With Lydia not going to Brighton-no Wickham! a bonus treat!!
A definite reread.
September 24, 2018
What a unique perspective on P&P - when Mr Bennet dies suddenly, Lady Catharine enlists the services of Darcy to make everything is in order at Longbourn for Collins. Darcy though not feeling it is his place, agrees in order to give his cousin an opportunity for a season and to avoid Lady Catharines matchmatcking schemes - and of course the opportunity to see Elizabeth again and improve her opinion of him is incentive for Darcy as well. I loved Darcy’s personality in this novel - his studious but kind heartedness towards all matters of the estate and it’s tenants, his banter with Elizabeth, his interest with her sisters and his comforting arms when needed made him an ideal man - of course Elizabeth must see this to. Add some mystery around Mr Bennett’s possible provisions for his family, Wickhams presence and a new perspective of the love between Jane and Bingley made this a very enjoyable read. I give this a 4.5 star vs 5 only because I don’t think Elizabeth would be one to show her feelings as she does. She may be unconventional but she is always concerned for her and her families reputation. Regardless, I loved it and would happily read it again!
October 7, 2018
Awesome story. This is a new fav for me. Just loved both Elizabeth and Darcy. They were true to their characters. All the Bennet’s were. The story starts out just after the disasterous proposal. Actually the next morning when Elizabeth receives an express telling her, her father had suddenly passed away. The story takes off after that and I just couldn’t put this story down. Obviously I had to but as soon as I was able to get a free moment I was back attentively reading again. Definitely recommend to everyone. Awesome happily ever after!
October 14, 2018
Regina Jeffers can do no wrong. I loved it!
August 26, 2025
Man I really don't want to be mean because I can tell this author put a lot of effort into it and clearly loves Jane Austen but Jesus Christ I hated this book.
The only reason I gave this 2 stars is because I can appreciate the historical research that went into this book regarding property and inheritance law.
It's hard to believe this author has multiple Pride and Prejudice novels published seeing as this story fundamentally misunderstands the characters and the messages of the book.
To state Darcy did nothing wrong is just ignorant and frankly a bit misogynistic because it places the blame solely on Elizabeth for being a silly woman who was too stubborn to realise she was wrong.
The point of Pride and Prejudice is that they are *both* prideful and prejudiced and they *both* reflect on that and grow.
"He only called her ugly in public for everyone to hear because he was in a bad mood because of his sister's situation with Wickham and she shouldn't be angry at him for that" is a WILD take to have, especially since he never even apologised for it? Insane victim blaming.
Aside from that I always dislike when people feel the need to "improve" the gloomy/ugly/single character. Yes Mary is young and character growth is good, but it's narrow minded to assume she must fundamentally change herself to become happy (and that her happiness necessarily lies in marriage). Why are we afraid to recognise that some people aren't (conventionally) attractive? Why do we think people will only find love if they are/become attractive? Why can a good ending for Mary only be one where she isn't herself?
Anyways I'll stop critiquing now, at least the author actually committed to writing and publishing a book which I have not and I can respect that.
The only reason I gave this 2 stars is because I can appreciate the historical research that went into this book regarding property and inheritance law.
It's hard to believe this author has multiple Pride and Prejudice novels published seeing as this story fundamentally misunderstands the characters and the messages of the book.
To state Darcy did nothing wrong is just ignorant and frankly a bit misogynistic because it places the blame solely on Elizabeth for being a silly woman who was too stubborn to realise she was wrong.
The point of Pride and Prejudice is that they are *both* prideful and prejudiced and they *both* reflect on that and grow.
"He only called her ugly in public for everyone to hear because he was in a bad mood because of his sister's situation with Wickham and she shouldn't be angry at him for that" is a WILD take to have, especially since he never even apologised for it? Insane victim blaming.
Aside from that I always dislike when people feel the need to "improve" the gloomy/ugly/single character. Yes Mary is young and character growth is good, but it's narrow minded to assume she must fundamentally change herself to become happy (and that her happiness necessarily lies in marriage). Why are we afraid to recognise that some people aren't (conventionally) attractive? Why do we think people will only find love if they are/become attractive? Why can a good ending for Mary only be one where she isn't herself?
Anyways I'll stop critiquing now, at least the author actually committed to writing and publishing a book which I have not and I can respect that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2020
In this P&P variation, Lizzy is visiting Charlotte Lucas in Kent. Mr. Darcy has just made his proposal to her and she has rejected him. In the morning, he presents her with a letter explaining his position about Wickham and her family, when Mr. Collins finds Lizzy and gives her an express telling her of her father's sudden death. She immediately returns home. A few days later, Darcy is convinced to act as Collins' agent in examining the contents of Longborne that he is to inherit - Lady Catherine insists he stay with her until a new curate has been found. Darcy gets a chance to spend a lot of time with Lizzy and helps her with her grieving over her father. He and Uncle Gardner search for Mr. Bennet's will and information Mr. Bennet has mentioned about a home in Cornwall where the family can reside.
I enjoyed this alternate tale. The author casts Mary in a better light that we've seen before, and the Bingleys are out of the picture. Of course, all ends well.
I enjoyed this alternate tale. The author casts Mary in a better light that we've seen before, and the Bingleys are out of the picture. Of course, all ends well.
April 29, 2020
Proofread please
My biggest pet peeve is errors that simple proofreading can find. It is not until near the end of the story but the Captain's name was Falston in parts & Ralston in others.
My biggest pet peeve is errors that simple proofreading can find. It is not until near the end of the story but the Captain's name was Falston in parts & Ralston in others.
February 12, 2019
Another unique story plot after a familiar beginning: The death of Mr. Bennet while Elizabeth is visitng Hunsford, right after Darcy proposes. Obviously there are so many ways events could play out following this event, given the many players and our favorite characters, but I found this one very different.
I was impressed with the historical research done in order to relate the complications involved with the possibility of inheriting a distant relative's property, the kind of property it was, and the fact that it could be passed down only through a female line. I learned a lot, and I thought about many stories I've read that glossily wrote that a woman or a family of women had once been comfortable in their station but reduced to service and basic penury. It's almost like another character. But it's just a setting which sometimes is revealed to be a shameful secret, or having been a starting point for the heroine's (usually) toughness, capability, or hatred of certain kinds of individuals. At any rate, in 'Where There's a FitzWILLiam Darcy, There's a Way,' not much time is devoted to lamenting what limitations society imposed upon females. There's the need to get on with business.
Elizabeth has so much to contend with keeping her family and household together and precious little time to grieve over her father's passing. And even though Darcy is sent by his Aunt Catherine on Mr. Collins' behalf for the unsavory job of inventorying the Longbourne furnishings, and his distasteful task is highly resented by Mrs. B., Kitty and Lydia and makes the rest of Mr. Bennet's daughters uncomfortable at first, his noble character wins the trust those he most wishes to be of service to. His kindness and goodness have always been revealed in all the JAFF I've read, but this story was unique in that regard because of the unique things this story called upon him to do. Legality, wills, entails, inheritances and dowries aside, Darcy proves himself again and again Elizabeth's hero and the consummate gentleman.
I did really like this story, and highly recommend it to JAFF readers. Unless you are one of those who don't want to read any real history with their romances I think you will enjoy it as much as I did. My only complaint was that the end was a bit rushed. It does have a nice epilogue!
I was impressed with the historical research done in order to relate the complications involved with the possibility of inheriting a distant relative's property, the kind of property it was, and the fact that it could be passed down only through a female line. I learned a lot, and I thought about many stories I've read that glossily wrote that a woman or a family of women had once been comfortable in their station but reduced to service and basic penury. It's almost like another character. But it's just a setting which sometimes is revealed to be a shameful secret, or having been a starting point for the heroine's (usually) toughness, capability, or hatred of certain kinds of individuals. At any rate, in 'Where There's a FitzWILLiam Darcy, There's a Way,' not much time is devoted to lamenting what limitations society imposed upon females. There's the need to get on with business.
Elizabeth has so much to contend with keeping her family and household together and precious little time to grieve over her father's passing. And even though Darcy is sent by his Aunt Catherine on Mr. Collins' behalf for the unsavory job of inventorying the Longbourne furnishings, and his distasteful task is highly resented by Mrs. B., Kitty and Lydia and makes the rest of Mr. Bennet's daughters uncomfortable at first, his noble character wins the trust those he most wishes to be of service to. His kindness and goodness have always been revealed in all the JAFF I've read, but this story was unique in that regard because of the unique things this story called upon him to do. Legality, wills, entails, inheritances and dowries aside, Darcy proves himself again and again Elizabeth's hero and the consummate gentleman.
I did really like this story, and highly recommend it to JAFF readers. Unless you are one of those who don't want to read any real history with their romances I think you will enjoy it as much as I did. My only complaint was that the end was a bit rushed. It does have a nice epilogue!
June 15, 2019
This book is quite different from others I have read of P & P variations. It starts the day after Elizabeth refuses Darcy's proposal, when he was going to give her the letter explaining Wickham doings and why he convinced Bingley to leave Netherfield. At that moment Lizzie was called by Charlotte, which gave her an express from Mary saying that their father had passed away. Darcy offered his carriage to her so she can set to Longbourn at once rather than travel by post. Then Lady Catherine asked or more ordered Darcy to go to Hertfordshire as Mr. Collins's agent to prevent the Bennets to take "more than their due", thus bringing Darcy into Elizabeth's path again. Even if Darcy was not happy about it at first, being sore after having being so violently rejected, Lady Catherine didn't give him much choice, telling him that in exchange she would take Anne de Bourgh to London for a season so she could find a husband. And so it was done. Lizzie doesn't read the letter until later but she slowly realises how wrong she was in her words of rejection to Mr Darcy, and starts seeing Mr Wickham's true nature...
I liked this book a lot because it shows plenty of character development, further than canon. I like how Mr Darcy slowly works with the family to account for everything in the house and also helps them with their tenants and solving estate problems. All the family, and Elizabeth, through working together with him, get to know him better and appreciate him as the good man he is. He helps her grieve her father and overcome difficulties such as Mr Bennet's missing will, and some prospective property left by their great-great grandmother from the Gardiner side of their family, specifically set aside for families with only daughters that are going through their problem.
I'm not going to spoil too much, just to say that Elizabeth takes control after Mr Bennet's passing, Mary is surprisingly good at organising things and helping Lizzie around, and she has some strong temper when the circumstances require it!! Jane is good at helping and she is quite sober and tries to help Lizzie with everything and her mama and sisters as well. The Gardiners are a very good help in trying times. Kitty understand the situation well and tries to make Lydia understand, without much success...
spoiler alert...
Lydia does run away with Wickham but her destiny is quite different from canon, which is very good. She does reform...
And Mr Bingley has no spine or pants/trousers whatsoever...
Though Jane still finds happiness.
The only annoying thing was that Elizabeth didn't tell Mr Darcy of her feelings on time and didn't want to give him a choice to wait for her, so she could help her family fulfil the property's conditions of single daughters living in it and marry in order. She was making the choice for him, so Jane intervened... nice Jane.
Also, no more Mr Collins after the beginning. Great!
Anyway, a couple of typos but nothing annoying. Fantastic story!!! Sweet but no sex, so if you are not into too sexy stuff, this is for you. I recommend it!
I liked this book a lot because it shows plenty of character development, further than canon. I like how Mr Darcy slowly works with the family to account for everything in the house and also helps them with their tenants and solving estate problems. All the family, and Elizabeth, through working together with him, get to know him better and appreciate him as the good man he is. He helps her grieve her father and overcome difficulties such as Mr Bennet's missing will, and some prospective property left by their great-great grandmother from the Gardiner side of their family, specifically set aside for families with only daughters that are going through their problem.
I'm not going to spoil too much, just to say that Elizabeth takes control after Mr Bennet's passing, Mary is surprisingly good at organising things and helping Lizzie around, and she has some strong temper when the circumstances require it!! Jane is good at helping and she is quite sober and tries to help Lizzie with everything and her mama and sisters as well. The Gardiners are a very good help in trying times. Kitty understand the situation well and tries to make Lydia understand, without much success...
spoiler alert...
Lydia does run away with Wickham but her destiny is quite different from canon, which is very good. She does reform...
And Mr Bingley has no spine or pants/trousers whatsoever...
Though Jane still finds happiness.
The only annoying thing was that Elizabeth didn't tell Mr Darcy of her feelings on time and didn't want to give him a choice to wait for her, so she could help her family fulfil the property's conditions of single daughters living in it and marry in order. She was making the choice for him, so Jane intervened... nice Jane.
Also, no more Mr Collins after the beginning. Great!
Anyway, a couple of typos but nothing annoying. Fantastic story!!! Sweet but no sex, so if you are not into too sexy stuff, this is for you. I recommend it!
September 26, 2018
Darcy to the rescue
This was an enjoyable read with an original premise. Imagine Darcy being persuaded to assist Mr. Collins in the transfer of the Longbourn estate! Kind of a stretch, but useful to the plot and uniting Darcy and Lizzy. A disappointing Bingley, but it was actually an okay change, and Jane does get her due at the end. There was a little bit of spirituality in the occasional appearance of Mr. Bennett 's ghost, but those events weren't overdone. Lady Catherine's surrender of her hopes for Darcy joining the family, made for smooth sailing for Darcy's pursuit of Lizzy.
I deducted a star for editing mistakes, some of which were pretty bad, such as "Ralston" instead of "Falston." There were enough mistakes to be distracting, but I like this author's style of writing and her nice tight story lines.
This was an enjoyable read with an original premise. Imagine Darcy being persuaded to assist Mr. Collins in the transfer of the Longbourn estate! Kind of a stretch, but useful to the plot and uniting Darcy and Lizzy. A disappointing Bingley, but it was actually an okay change, and Jane does get her due at the end. There was a little bit of spirituality in the occasional appearance of Mr. Bennett 's ghost, but those events weren't overdone. Lady Catherine's surrender of her hopes for Darcy joining the family, made for smooth sailing for Darcy's pursuit of Lizzy.
I deducted a star for editing mistakes, some of which were pretty bad, such as "Ralston" instead of "Falston." There were enough mistakes to be distracting, but I like this author's style of writing and her nice tight story lines.
December 24, 2018
Avid Reader
I generally enjoy Regina Jeffers' work, and this book was no exception. Mr. Bennett has died in other versions, but Darcy was not welcomed by the family as a savior. It was close to the end she Mrs.Bennett apologized for disparaging him. He had done so much for the family, things that even Mr. Gardenier could not do because of his lack of connections. I did tire of Elizabeth trying to decide what Darcy was willing to do to have her as his wife. Fortunately, Jane took the bill by the horns and let him know that Elizabeth loves him.
I generally enjoy Regina Jeffers' work, and this book was no exception. Mr. Bennett has died in other versions, but Darcy was not welcomed by the family as a savior. It was close to the end she Mrs.Bennett apologized for disparaging him. He had done so much for the family, things that even Mr. Gardenier could not do because of his lack of connections. I did tire of Elizabeth trying to decide what Darcy was willing to do to have her as his wife. Fortunately, Jane took the bill by the horns and let him know that Elizabeth loves him.
January 4, 2019
I must confess I didn't know what to expect with this take on Pride & Prejudice, as the one by Austen leaves an indelible impression. Initially, it was difficult for me to get into the flow of the story as I kept drawing for comparison the original. I finally decided to read just for the enjoyment I might get out of this one, and I did end up enjoying this rendition. Loved the bit of mystery involved and how Darcy and Elizabeth resolved their estrangement.
April 6, 2023
What an excellent book Ms. Jeffershas given us with this one! It is a beautiful love story of one man's struggles to do all for the woman he loves, even when she is lost to him forever. And of the young woman who grows to love the one man she thought never to marry. I loved the changes in the character, Jane's strength, Mary's growth, and Mrs. Bennet's sensible side. The book is just a pleasure to read! This is my second time to read it, and I know it won't be my last.
May 26, 2023
Interesting variation
Four Stars because most of the book deals with the aftermath of Mr Bennet's death and the hard facts of 5 unmarried daughters. The book is well written and the storyline well thought through, but if you're dealing with the recent aftermath of personal loss, it may not be a good fit. Definitely not uplifting until the end. Otherwise, enjoy, I did.
Four Stars because most of the book deals with the aftermath of Mr Bennet's death and the hard facts of 5 unmarried daughters. The book is well written and the storyline well thought through, but if you're dealing with the recent aftermath of personal loss, it may not be a good fit. Definitely not uplifting until the end. Otherwise, enjoy, I did.
January 3, 2020
Interesting
I found this book one of the better P and P variations. Although I could have done without Mr Bennett’s hidden will, the story was interesting. I also liked the fact that the author gave us a different portrait of Mary. I would recommend this book.
I found this book one of the better P and P variations. Although I could have done without Mr Bennett’s hidden will, the story was interesting. I also liked the fact that the author gave us a different portrait of Mary. I would recommend this book.
November 8, 2018
Very good book
I loved reading this book. Loved how Darcy and Elizabeth got together. Had a little issue with the plot but overall it was a good book.
I loved reading this book. Loved how Darcy and Elizabeth got together. Had a little issue with the plot but overall it was a good book.
April 1, 2021
Awkward, often incorrect, phrasing that interrupts the flow of reading.
Overused words: such and possess
Overused words: such and possess
January 28, 2024
The storyline is interesting, with a few twists on the iconic Pride & Prejudice. It is well written, and I would have awarded the book five stars if there weren't so many typos.
April 7, 2024
A Pride and Prejudice variation where the Hunsford proposal is done, but then Mr Bennet dies. Darcy is coerced into overseeing Collins's interest in Longbourn. Meanwhile Elizabeth has found a letter which might be their saving. Will Lydia grow up.
An entertaining story.
An entertaining story.
March 4, 2024
4.5*
oh Darcy. What he suffers and puts up with to help Lizzy all the while with little hope.
I loved this - I must say, Darcy is far more forgiving, selfless and magnanimous than most would be (myself included... yikes?).
As always, the writing and characterizations are excellent.
oh Darcy. What he suffers and puts up with to help Lizzy all the while with little hope.
I loved this - I must say, Darcy is far more forgiving, selfless and magnanimous than most would be (myself included... yikes?).
As always, the writing and characterizations are excellent.
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