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The Unreformed Mr Darcy
What if Elizabeth Bennet had accepted Mr Darcy's proposal in Kent? What if they married before he stopped being the proud, arrogant man she detested? What if, in order to avoid the ruin of her beloved sister, Elizabeth chose to swallow her pride and say yes to a pre-reform Darcy?
Mr Bingley has left Netherfield, and in his stead a rich and unscrupulous man takes possession of the manor. While Elizabeth is in Kent, visiting her recently married friend Charlotte, she receives letters which tell her how Jane is soon to be wed to a man Elizabeth can't stand. And then, unbelievably, Mr Darcy, the last man in the world she would ever choose to marry, proposes to her. Elizabeth is torn. But thoughts of rescuing Jane make her do something that will change the course of her life forever...
The Unreformed Mr Darcy is a Pride and Prejudice variation romance by the author of Stranded with Mr Darcy.
Mr Bingley has left Netherfield, and in his stead a rich and unscrupulous man takes possession of the manor. While Elizabeth is in Kent, visiting her recently married friend Charlotte, she receives letters which tell her how Jane is soon to be wed to a man Elizabeth can't stand. And then, unbelievably, Mr Darcy, the last man in the world she would ever choose to marry, proposes to her. Elizabeth is torn. But thoughts of rescuing Jane make her do something that will change the course of her life forever...
The Unreformed Mr Darcy is a Pride and Prejudice variation romance by the author of Stranded with Mr Darcy.
381 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 3, 2018
About the author
Lin Mei Wei
8 books99 followersLin Mei Wei lives in England, in the Midlands (home of Shakespeare, pork pies, and Robin Hood) with her husband, her daughter, and her disreputable dog.
Writing is about escapism for her. She writes when she's feeling anxious, stressed, overwhelmed or sad, so as to relax and to be happy.
Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer are her biggest inspirations. She also loves cosy mysteries, historical novels and anything that features charming characters, witty dialogue, and a well-earned happy ending.
This is what she tries to achieve with her own writing.
Writing is about escapism for her. She writes when she's feeling anxious, stressed, overwhelmed or sad, so as to relax and to be happy.
Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer are her biggest inspirations. She also loves cosy mysteries, historical novels and anything that features charming characters, witty dialogue, and a well-earned happy ending.
This is what she tries to achieve with her own writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
November 17, 2018
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
This is a marvelous story. You may think you know where it's headed when Elizabeth decides to accept Darcy's proposal at Rosings even though she intensely dislikes him, but this slowly but surely steers that familiar-sounding variation in surprising directions.
Jane has an unwelcome suitor: Mr. Caruthers. He is a leering lout, a wealthy tradesman who has taken over the Netherfield estate after the Bingleys vacated it. Naturally, Mama Bennet only cares about the "wealthy" part, pushing Jane to marry him, and Elizabeth worries that her sister will sacrifice herself for the sake of her family. Elizabeth only thinks of Jane when she says yes to Darcy, knowing her mother will recognize the potential this marriage has to allow her eldest daughter catch an even better husband than merely a rich businessman.
Ms. Wei does a wonderful job of showing Darcy both at his worst and at his best. In the early sections of the story, he actually believes Elizabeth shares his negative opinion of her family and will be as relieved as he to get away from them. When Darcy learns her true feelings about him (in the worst possible way), it's a complete shock.
Elizabeth is stuck dealing with the cats of the ton, particularly the vicious Lady Howe (Darcy's cousin by marriage), without a visibly supportive husband beside her. She endures the London Season's social events, puts on a strong face for the servants and her family, and privately wallows in despair over her untenable situation.
Colonel Fitzwilliam is his usual amiable self, but it's the colonel's brother, Viscount Howe, who really gets through to Darcy in one of my favorite scenes.
Whenever a sticky situation comes up (and there are more than one), Darcy's heroism comes to the fore--always taking action, taking charge, providing solutions and reassurance. Elizabeth's gradual change in attitude toward him comes from her observations of his honorable behavior.
Lydia plays a key role throughout the book as the catalyst for disaster. Mr. Wickham manipulates her shamelessly. Although she's still portrayed as a spoiled, spiteful character, I appreciated that, in the end, she's NOT evil or irredeemable; she's just an immature, naive child without the ability to foresee negative consequences of her actions.
The writing flows well, and it's equally well edited. Point of view shifts smoothly from one character to another. While the introspection occasionally slows things down too much, especially in the first part of the book, it gradually turns into an action-packed adventure. It's way off-canon, expanding the plot and believably showing how events change these characters, including Mr. Bingley.
Once you get deeply enough into the book, it's one that keeps you turning the pages to discover what will happen next. Great read.
This is a marvelous story. You may think you know where it's headed when Elizabeth decides to accept Darcy's proposal at Rosings even though she intensely dislikes him, but this slowly but surely steers that familiar-sounding variation in surprising directions.
Jane has an unwelcome suitor: Mr. Caruthers. He is a leering lout, a wealthy tradesman who has taken over the Netherfield estate after the Bingleys vacated it. Naturally, Mama Bennet only cares about the "wealthy" part, pushing Jane to marry him, and Elizabeth worries that her sister will sacrifice herself for the sake of her family. Elizabeth only thinks of Jane when she says yes to Darcy, knowing her mother will recognize the potential this marriage has to allow her eldest daughter catch an even better husband than merely a rich businessman.
Ms. Wei does a wonderful job of showing Darcy both at his worst and at his best. In the early sections of the story, he actually believes Elizabeth shares his negative opinion of her family and will be as relieved as he to get away from them. When Darcy learns her true feelings about him (in the worst possible way), it's a complete shock.
Elizabeth is stuck dealing with the cats of the ton, particularly the vicious Lady Howe (Darcy's cousin by marriage), without a visibly supportive husband beside her. She endures the London Season's social events, puts on a strong face for the servants and her family, and privately wallows in despair over her untenable situation.
Colonel Fitzwilliam is his usual amiable self, but it's the colonel's brother, Viscount Howe, who really gets through to Darcy in one of my favorite scenes.
Whenever a sticky situation comes up (and there are more than one), Darcy's heroism comes to the fore--always taking action, taking charge, providing solutions and reassurance. Elizabeth's gradual change in attitude toward him comes from her observations of his honorable behavior.
Lydia plays a key role throughout the book as the catalyst for disaster. Mr. Wickham manipulates her shamelessly. Although she's still portrayed as a spoiled, spiteful character, I appreciated that, in the end, she's NOT evil or irredeemable; she's just an immature, naive child without the ability to foresee negative consequences of her actions.
The writing flows well, and it's equally well edited. Point of view shifts smoothly from one character to another. While the introspection occasionally slows things down too much, especially in the first part of the book, it gradually turns into an action-packed adventure. It's way off-canon, expanding the plot and believably showing how events change these characters, including Mr. Bingley.
Once you get deeply enough into the book, it's one that keeps you turning the pages to discover what will happen next. Great read.
December 10, 2018
This, for me, was a real page-turner. The story description gives us a clear picture of what to initially expect but things get very tense afterwards...quickly. Darcy is "unreformed" as no one he cares about has given him feedback at any time as to how his actions, even his looks, his mien can be interpreted by those who don't know him well. Then on top of that he has been pursued by women (and their mothers) for years so it is easy for us to understand how he thinks every woman out there would be thrilled to marry him...and his money. And not having indulged in the act of flirting (ever) he believes that Elizabeth's retorts, her sarcasm, her laughing at him are all part of her regard for him.
Thus we come to that proposal in Hunsford but here we have several differences from canon. Elizabeth is given overnight to ponder her answer to him. And that is heavily influenced by a letter from her mother which E. takes to mean that Jane has accepted (to save her family) the hand of an obnoxious man who has taken over Netherfield when Bingley moved out. Elizabeth sees two choices: save Jane or save herself. She puts Jane first.
From here on out I am reading to learn when and how Darcy is going to find out that Elizabeth doesn't just not like him...she hates him. Marrying him is only just a little better than marrying Collins would have been. So this is not exactly a FMS; no one has been found in a compromising position, no one is "forced" to marry. But the results are the same; although Darcy has said he "admires and loves" her.
Now (not to ruin the story with spoilers) the author has been very creative in how she brings about the "big reveal" and even in how she brings Lydia into a state of repentance. Drum roll: drama, angst, chases across the country side and even the sea! Begin this book early in the day or expect to stay up late if you are one who can't put exciting books down.
This was well written and completely enjoyable. I highly recommend it.
Thus we come to that proposal in Hunsford but here we have several differences from canon. Elizabeth is given overnight to ponder her answer to him. And that is heavily influenced by a letter from her mother which E. takes to mean that Jane has accepted (to save her family) the hand of an obnoxious man who has taken over Netherfield when Bingley moved out. Elizabeth sees two choices: save Jane or save herself. She puts Jane first.
From here on out I am reading to learn when and how Darcy is going to find out that Elizabeth doesn't just not like him...she hates him. Marrying him is only just a little better than marrying Collins would have been. So this is not exactly a FMS; no one has been found in a compromising position, no one is "forced" to marry. But the results are the same; although Darcy has said he "admires and loves" her.
Now (not to ruin the story with spoilers) the author has been very creative in how she brings about the "big reveal" and even in how she brings Lydia into a state of repentance. Drum roll: drama, angst, chases across the country side and even the sea! Begin this book early in the day or expect to stay up late if you are one who can't put exciting books down.
This was well written and completely enjoyable. I highly recommend it.
December 11, 2018
I decided to take a break in my Bosch-a-thon to read some P&P and this was a genius choice.This is an absolutely delightful P&P what if that adds to canon but works brilliantly.
We begin with Miss Elizabeth Bennet visiting her dear friend Mrs. Collins at Hunsford Parsonage. Here we have not Jane lamenting Mr. Bingley but instead Jane dodging and weaving to escape a loathsome Mr. Carruthers who has replaced Bingley at Netherfield but not in Jane's heart. Mr. Carruthers is still carrying the stink of trade and is rude, crude, and socially unacceptable. Of course Mrs. Bennet doesn't see it this way at all; she instead sees £££; if only Lizzy could find a way to rescue her sister and reunite her with Mr. Bingley.... if only.... BAM Mr. Darcy Proposes and Lizzy says "Yes, oh yes"
And it is far from smooth sailing from here. I want to stress that this is NOT in anyway a forced marriage scenario - Lizzy goes in with her eyes opened and her heart hardened... while arrogant, selfish Darcy is besotted. We get a domineering, even if he is unaware, Darcy who plans their wedding and arranges everything except the wedding breakfast. Their marriage starts out wrong footed and simply gets worse and worse... until a dreadful occurrence forced them to work together and find their way.
What I loved, the author didn't fill the story with useless words, discussions or scenes. She was brave enough to edit it like a book for grown ups who can get from A to C without B being spelled out. We get a lot of Darcy's perspective which spares us a lot of tropes. Lizzy is brave and resilient she rises at every attempt to intimidate her from the Ton. There is no epilogue the story ends. Period.
This is a clean story.
We begin with Miss Elizabeth Bennet visiting her dear friend Mrs. Collins at Hunsford Parsonage. Here we have not Jane lamenting Mr. Bingley but instead Jane dodging and weaving to escape a loathsome Mr. Carruthers who has replaced Bingley at Netherfield but not in Jane's heart. Mr. Carruthers is still carrying the stink of trade and is rude, crude, and socially unacceptable. Of course Mrs. Bennet doesn't see it this way at all; she instead sees £££; if only Lizzy could find a way to rescue her sister and reunite her with Mr. Bingley.... if only.... BAM Mr. Darcy Proposes and Lizzy says "Yes, oh yes"
And it is far from smooth sailing from here. I want to stress that this is NOT in anyway a forced marriage scenario - Lizzy goes in with her eyes opened and her heart hardened... while arrogant, selfish Darcy is besotted. We get a domineering, even if he is unaware, Darcy who plans their wedding and arranges everything except the wedding breakfast. Their marriage starts out wrong footed and simply gets worse and worse... until a dreadful occurrence forced them to work together and find their way.
What I loved, the author didn't fill the story with useless words, discussions or scenes. She was brave enough to edit it like a book for grown ups who can get from A to C without B being spelled out. We get a lot of Darcy's perspective which spares us a lot of tropes. Lizzy is brave and resilient she rises at every attempt to intimidate her from the Ton. There is no epilogue the story ends. Period.
This is a clean story.
November 30, 2018
Great story.....
Same old characters, yet different because are not static. Their experiences change them and make them ever so much better as the grow and change. And new character, evil, angelic, and everything in between to add new flavor to the P&P universe.
Then there is Jane. She is the story’s Rock of Gibraltar 🇬🇮. You can try to fool her, you can beseech her, you can threaten her, you can kill her...but she will not do something she thinks is wrong. Bingley is wrong to call her an angel. She is not an otherworldly creature. She is a human, she is a Saint.
Love this story. Wish the HEA had come a little sooner but not enough to knock it down a star ⭐️ . I recommend this book highly.
Same old characters, yet different because are not static. Their experiences change them and make them ever so much better as the grow and change. And new character, evil, angelic, and everything in between to add new flavor to the P&P universe.
Then there is Jane. She is the story’s Rock of Gibraltar 🇬🇮. You can try to fool her, you can beseech her, you can threaten her, you can kill her...but she will not do something she thinks is wrong. Bingley is wrong to call her an angel. She is not an otherworldly creature. She is a human, she is a Saint.
Love this story. Wish the HEA had come a little sooner but not enough to knock it down a star ⭐️ . I recommend this book highly.
November 7, 2018
A marriage of convenience trope.
I thought the "convenience" part, very cleverly done. No compromise but neither was it mercenary reasons, at least not entirely.
It was however, a bit dry in the beginning and it took me a while to get really invested in the book. I was honestly on the verge of quitting it when it finally grabbed my attention.
It redeemed itself nicely though and turned rather angsty with a dark ambiance. Although the book did contain dramatc events, they were not the main contributor to the angst. The angst came from a more personal and emotional level.
Neither Elizabeth nor Darcy was particularly likeable in the beginning of the book but I enjoyed watching their characters develop.
Entered at Hunsford, were the proposal went rather differently than in canon.
Elizabeth took into account the benefits towards her sisters by accepting Darcy's proposal and found herself engaged to a man she despised. Darcy was oblivious to her dislike and did little to endear himself to Elizabeth. He was more concerned about the derision he would face from the ton and his family for his choice of wife.
Their relationship deterred further by a scheming little sister and the marriage was ice-cold until a debacle with Wickham and Mr Caruthers ensued. Adversity can bring people together, although it might happen, painstakingly slow. I cannot but think that the author tried to increase my enjoyment by suspense and it worked to some degree. Would have appreciated a little less description of details in the surroundings though.
In the end, I thought it well written, well researched and plausible. Would have preferred a bit more fluff at the end to reset my equilibrium though.
Recommend!
I thought the "convenience" part, very cleverly done. No compromise but neither was it mercenary reasons, at least not entirely.
It was however, a bit dry in the beginning and it took me a while to get really invested in the book. I was honestly on the verge of quitting it when it finally grabbed my attention.
It redeemed itself nicely though and turned rather angsty with a dark ambiance. Although the book did contain dramatc events, they were not the main contributor to the angst. The angst came from a more personal and emotional level.
Neither Elizabeth nor Darcy was particularly likeable in the beginning of the book but I enjoyed watching their characters develop.
Entered at Hunsford, were the proposal went rather differently than in canon.
Elizabeth took into account the benefits towards her sisters by accepting Darcy's proposal and found herself engaged to a man she despised. Darcy was oblivious to her dislike and did little to endear himself to Elizabeth. He was more concerned about the derision he would face from the ton and his family for his choice of wife.
Their relationship deterred further by a scheming little sister and the marriage was ice-cold until a debacle with Wickham and Mr Caruthers ensued. Adversity can bring people together, although it might happen, painstakingly slow. I cannot but think that the author tried to increase my enjoyment by suspense and it worked to some degree. Would have appreciated a little less description of details in the surroundings though.
In the end, I thought it well written, well researched and plausible. Would have preferred a bit more fluff at the end to reset my equilibrium though.
Recommend!
June 30, 2023
3.5 for me. I did like this, it just felt the some of the process was skipped or glossed over, like there was some of the story missing. But I guess you can't get more if the book is supposed to be shorter.
February 6, 2021
Did not finish:
I had a hard time getting into it. Lizzy just upset me, I did not find her likable in the slightest, she is too good hearted I believe to treat Darcy as she does so my suspension of disbelief was strained.
"You are too generous to trifle with me."
From the mouths of babes, or should I say Darcy/ Austen
Also for someone marrying for love like Darcy he would have more open conversations with Lizzy and surely notice his affections were loop sided especially with how indifferent & unengaging Lizzy is.
One of P&P's Lizzy’s greatest flaws and virtues is her big compassionate heart, I have a hard time with her depiction during their engagement. Lizzy as a character could not have the capacity to be so calculating about it like she is here purported to be.
Also, even when Lizzy hated Darcy in P&P she was always affected by him, that is why she talked on and on about him and noticed him, they have this chemistry and I didn't see her affected by it here.
This Lizzy comes of robotic and cold due to it and Off Character for it. I had a hard time coming back to the story and reading it, but hell if I did not give it the ole college try! I spent nigh 2 weeks trying.
I think the writing and story telling itself is well done, indeed I highlighted in kindle a lot of phrasing and such I found charming, the first 10% I was quite enraptured, but it soon became untenable for me.
My issue with it lies in the emotional and character component. Without sympathetic leads I am not compelled to be too vested in what they do.
I see a lot of positive reviews and since I did not finish it, maybe if I had been capable of trudging through I would have changed my mind, but at this juncture I can not. Hopefully one day..
March 9, 2024
Wonderful
A well written and engaging story about a marriage of inconvenience and how hurt, fear and bitterness can be overcome by goodness. Wickham enlists another villain in his schemes. Jane has a potentially triggering experience.
A well written and engaging story about a marriage of inconvenience and how hurt, fear and bitterness can be overcome by goodness. Wickham enlists another villain in his schemes. Jane has a potentially triggering experience.
March 16, 2026
It was almost a perfect P&P variation. The atmosphere, the consistency of the characters (save Lizzy, perhaps), and the way the author entwined the scenes — the sentences from P&P were delightful. As a whole, it was satisfying.
Yet, there were a few happenings too melodramatic for Austen's world. And another "flaw" was Lizzy. I always thought she felt attraction for Darcy since the first meeting; she just had mixed feelings for most of the book. Here, she didn't like him for a long time (no warm feelings at all).
Yet, there were a few happenings too melodramatic for Austen's world. And another "flaw" was Lizzy. I always thought she felt attraction for Darcy since the first meeting; she just had mixed feelings for most of the book. Here, she didn't like him for a long time (no warm feelings at all).
March 30, 2020
Deceitful, Proud and Arrogant Elizabeth
Where do I begin? First, let me say that I enjoyed the writing by this author, but there was no where in this entire book a time when I liked Elizabeth, which is why I rated it so low. I guess the author wanted me to just ignore Elizabeth's flaws while I read along because she's ODE. In this story Elizabeth is deceitful, arrogant, proud and obsessed with Jane. Elizabeth married Darcy under false pretenses, knowing he loves her, but decided to marry the man she hates to keep Jane from marrying a weasel, to hopefully help Wickham receive his just due from Darcy and also, to throw Jane in the path of other rich men because she deserves nothing less. So, silly Elizabeth writes down a list of the things she likes about Darcy (nothing to see here) and the things she hates (a lot to see), but she decides to keep this list with her at all times, even during the engagement. Long story short, Darcy sees the list and the newlyweds have words. From there they become roommates, Elizabeth visits with his family and spends his money, but NEVER apologizing for marrying him under false pretenses. Darcy come to the rescue of Elizabeth's sisters three times, does she thank him, No. The author wrote the story as if Darcy needed to work on his character, but it was Elizabeth who was deceitful and too proud to apologize or say thank you. Now towards the end after Darcy risked his life for her dear sister and Elizabeth is thinking Darcy is going to send her some place else to live (they are still not truly husband and wife) she has the audacity to say to herself she isn't going anywhere that she deserves as to be mistress at Pemberley... Excuse Me? How does that work? So, at the very end the author has Darcy to apologize for being proud etc., But Elizabeth only apologize for the things she wrote in the list not for her deceit in marrying him. And truly it wasn't an apology, she just ask if the list she wrote was unforgivable, and of course Darcy put the blame on himself. I could go on and on, this Elizabeth was a joke. Ugh!
Where do I begin? First, let me say that I enjoyed the writing by this author, but there was no where in this entire book a time when I liked Elizabeth, which is why I rated it so low. I guess the author wanted me to just ignore Elizabeth's flaws while I read along because she's ODE. In this story Elizabeth is deceitful, arrogant, proud and obsessed with Jane. Elizabeth married Darcy under false pretenses, knowing he loves her, but decided to marry the man she hates to keep Jane from marrying a weasel, to hopefully help Wickham receive his just due from Darcy and also, to throw Jane in the path of other rich men because she deserves nothing less. So, silly Elizabeth writes down a list of the things she likes about Darcy (nothing to see here) and the things she hates (a lot to see), but she decides to keep this list with her at all times, even during the engagement. Long story short, Darcy sees the list and the newlyweds have words. From there they become roommates, Elizabeth visits with his family and spends his money, but NEVER apologizing for marrying him under false pretenses. Darcy come to the rescue of Elizabeth's sisters three times, does she thank him, No. The author wrote the story as if Darcy needed to work on his character, but it was Elizabeth who was deceitful and too proud to apologize or say thank you. Now towards the end after Darcy risked his life for her dear sister and Elizabeth is thinking Darcy is going to send her some place else to live (they are still not truly husband and wife) she has the audacity to say to herself she isn't going anywhere that she deserves as to be mistress at Pemberley... Excuse Me? How does that work? So, at the very end the author has Darcy to apologize for being proud etc., But Elizabeth only apologize for the things she wrote in the list not for her deceit in marrying him. And truly it wasn't an apology, she just ask if the list she wrote was unforgivable, and of course Darcy put the blame on himself. I could go on and on, this Elizabeth was a joke. Ugh!
December 17, 2019
I was anxious to read this after the many positive reviews. Unfortunately, this book did not live up my excited expectations. I wonder if I was reading the same book as it took a lot of determination for me to not abandon it and make it to the end. It was a very slow moving book, very slow and there was no chemistry or connection. If this were my first introduction to my favorite literary couple, they would be forgotten as soon as the book was set down. They both pretty much ignored each other throughout the entire book, especially Elizabeth. There was nothing remarkable about their relationship and there was no development of it worth mentioning because there was almost no communication between them throughout the entire book. After a big climax of the book, I thought to myself, FINALLY, circumstances will give at least one of them courage to finally speak and overcome their difficulties, but no . . . NOTHING. She still continued pretty much ignoring him even though her feelings had altered. At that point I was just angry because the Darcy and Elizabeth that Jane Austen created that we all fell in love with were both of strong personalities and had enough character to face their troubles and feelings enough to have at least one honest conversation. I hate to write reviews like this, but I have to be honest, this book was a big disappointed that had potential, but could and should have been much better.
April 24, 2019
In this story, Elizabeth agrees to marry Darcy when he asks the first time, meaning he makes no changes to his behaviour and their marriage gets off to a rocky start when he learns about Elizabeth's feelings about him, and her reasons for accepting his proposal. She essentially accepts him so as to save Jane from marrying a detestable man who has poor Jane in his sights.
This was a real page turner - I've read it in a single sitting. I didn't much like the beginning. Elizabeth was so much like Mrs Bennet in her musings about Mr Darcy it was distracting and I didn't like her. There was a little side story about Darcy and another woman that seemed a bit pointless. Two separate adventures started by Wickham's misdeeds were good - I enjoyed this. The only real complaint I have is about the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth. For a long time they don't really speak so we don't see much of their relationship and the ending was a bit sudden for me. I think I'd have liked to see a bit of them together as a happier couple.... or actually just as couple. They spend a lot of time apart.
I enjoyed this, I'm glad I stuck with it!
This was a real page turner - I've read it in a single sitting. I didn't much like the beginning. Elizabeth was so much like Mrs Bennet in her musings about Mr Darcy it was distracting and I didn't like her. There was a little side story about Darcy and another woman that seemed a bit pointless. Two separate adventures started by Wickham's misdeeds were good - I enjoyed this. The only real complaint I have is about the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth. For a long time they don't really speak so we don't see much of their relationship and the ending was a bit sudden for me. I think I'd have liked to see a bit of them together as a happier couple.... or actually just as couple. They spend a lot of time apart.
I enjoyed this, I'm glad I stuck with it!
July 6, 2022
This was my second time reading this book and I enjoyed it as much as the first time.
The description of Orkney Island makes me want to see it.
A few typos and some modern language but not too much of either.
The description of Orkney Island makes me want to see it.
A few typos and some modern language but not too much of either.
December 24, 2018
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, Elizabeth accepts Darcy's proposal, but not for love - to save her sister.
March 29, 2020
Lizzy has an impossible choice before her. Her sister Jane, abandoned by Mr. Bingley (due to Mr. Darcy's interference), has attracted an odious new (rich!) suitor whom Mrs. Bennet is pressuring her to marry. Unwilling to let her sister be the sacrificial lamb, Lizzy decides to accept Mr. Darcy's insolent proposal at the Hunsford Parsonage. She has a whole list of reasons why she detests Mr. Darcy, but for Jane's sake, she will swallow her pride and enter a marriage of convenience. As the wedding nears, Lizzy discovers that the proud man she is destined to marry has a kindlier side. Is it possible they could live happily ever after even without an apology from Darcy?
When foolish Lydia's plan to elope with Wickham is thwarted by her sister's fiance, she takes her revenge by sending Lizzy's ill-conceived "list" to Mr. Darcy. Stopped cold by the revelation, Darcy now knows himself trapped in a sham of a marriage to a woman who hates him. Can their strained relationship ever recover? Will either of them find the right words to change this marriage of convenience into a marriage of love and affection?
This Pride and Prejudice variation explores a tantalizing "what-if?" and allows us to imagine our favorite literary couple in that well-worn trope, the marriage of convenience. Darcy is blindsided that his new bride detests him but soon comes to realize that he had always assumed that she would be swept off her feet instead of making any real effort to woo her. Their fumbling efforts to reconcile provoke sympathy, and in the end, both realize and amend the flaws that have kept them apart, just as in the original Austen story. Although no variation can ever surpass the original, this is a worthy addition to the P&P fan-fiction canon.
When foolish Lydia's plan to elope with Wickham is thwarted by her sister's fiance, she takes her revenge by sending Lizzy's ill-conceived "list" to Mr. Darcy. Stopped cold by the revelation, Darcy now knows himself trapped in a sham of a marriage to a woman who hates him. Can their strained relationship ever recover? Will either of them find the right words to change this marriage of convenience into a marriage of love and affection?
This Pride and Prejudice variation explores a tantalizing "what-if?" and allows us to imagine our favorite literary couple in that well-worn trope, the marriage of convenience. Darcy is blindsided that his new bride detests him but soon comes to realize that he had always assumed that she would be swept off her feet instead of making any real effort to woo her. Their fumbling efforts to reconcile provoke sympathy, and in the end, both realize and amend the flaws that have kept them apart, just as in the original Austen story. Although no variation can ever surpass the original, this is a worthy addition to the P&P fan-fiction canon.
June 27, 2022
Or my favorite, I hated seeing Darcy & Lizzy start out their marriage with hostility & anger. I just wasn’t a fan of how it played out. I was so mad at Lydia & how she was almost “herself” again by the end of the book. How they breezed over poor Jane’s ptsd only because she isn’t one to kick up a fuss.
Plus, their was hardly any actual good scenes between the couple. I always like the variations where a courtship is more pronounced & sought after.
Plus, their was hardly any actual good scenes between the couple. I always like the variations where a courtship is more pronounced & sought after.
April 15, 2019
Intriguing Pride and Prejudice Variation
I enjoyed this intriguing, delightful book. I was surprised at different moments which was fun. No spoilers given except to go read the book.
I enjoyed this intriguing, delightful book. I was surprised at different moments which was fun. No spoilers given except to go read the book.
March 30, 2022
Ohhh Lydia!
Reviewed in Canada on March 3, 2019
That girl. Sheesh. Really good read. Super storyline. This writer is very good at dialogue. I enjoyed Stranded with Mr. Darcy better than this book because of it’s fantastic dialogue. I still recommend this one highly.
Reviewed in Canada on March 3, 2019
That girl. Sheesh. Really good read. Super storyline. This writer is very good at dialogue. I enjoyed Stranded with Mr. Darcy better than this book because of it’s fantastic dialogue. I still recommend this one highly.
January 3, 2019
Not my favorite. Elizabeth seemed less... mature and strong in her character. I was distracted several times by things which seemed to be plot holes or inappropriate/unrealistic for the time period. If you aren't a stickler though, you may enjoy the very different plot from the original. If you're looking for a good Elizabeth accepts Darcy's first proposal variation, I recommend Unequal Affections by Lara Ormiston instead.
June 21, 2020
Well written but became very dramatic and angst-driven with a less than satisfying ending. Did not like Elizabeth during any of this. Skimmed quite a bit.
December 8, 2018
Not Deep Enough
This is overall an interesting story with lots of action. However, it is definitely short on romance and the story lines in the book are unrealistic and somewhat contrived.
The first problem is the wedding day & night of Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy. The societal norms of the day meant this couple couldn’t spend much time alone until they were married. It seems unlikely to me that a man of the time would agree to a large ball on his wedding night. He would want at least a week with his bride before such a an event. The party kept the new Mr and Mrs Darcy out most of the night. Unrealistic!
Secondly the story is short on romance. The couple is affectionate leading up to the wedding, then there is very little romance until the very end of the story. This is not a positive in a story which is a regency romance.
A young lady in the story is compromised and no one questions her about what happens. Yes, she does give an explanation to Elizabeth, but it was not detailed enough. I think the people of the time period would have asked more questions. I think a possible fiancé would have wanted more answers. I think this was an unrealistic outcome. I won’t give the plot away, but I can’t imagine why family and friends would not have asked more questions.
The ending of the story seems very abrupt. It seems as if the author said, Oh I think I’ve written enough and just ended the story.
The positives of the story include Mr Darcy and Mr Bingley’s characters. They are very honorable and heroic throughout the story. In addition the story was very fast paced. One exciting event quickly followed another. Every time I thought the story would drag on, something new occurred. The budding romance between Elizabeth and Darcy at the beginning of the story was very interesting. Unfortunately, it was very short lived. A rekindling of that romance would have helped this story. The story is interesting throughout the book. Despite this, the story overall seemed to be missing something. I think the story just isn’t deep enough.
This is overall an interesting story with lots of action. However, it is definitely short on romance and the story lines in the book are unrealistic and somewhat contrived.
The first problem is the wedding day & night of Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy. The societal norms of the day meant this couple couldn’t spend much time alone until they were married. It seems unlikely to me that a man of the time would agree to a large ball on his wedding night. He would want at least a week with his bride before such a an event. The party kept the new Mr and Mrs Darcy out most of the night. Unrealistic!
Secondly the story is short on romance. The couple is affectionate leading up to the wedding, then there is very little romance until the very end of the story. This is not a positive in a story which is a regency romance.
A young lady in the story is compromised and no one questions her about what happens. Yes, she does give an explanation to Elizabeth, but it was not detailed enough. I think the people of the time period would have asked more questions. I think a possible fiancé would have wanted more answers. I think this was an unrealistic outcome. I won’t give the plot away, but I can’t imagine why family and friends would not have asked more questions.
The ending of the story seems very abrupt. It seems as if the author said, Oh I think I’ve written enough and just ended the story.
The positives of the story include Mr Darcy and Mr Bingley’s characters. They are very honorable and heroic throughout the story. In addition the story was very fast paced. One exciting event quickly followed another. Every time I thought the story would drag on, something new occurred. The budding romance between Elizabeth and Darcy at the beginning of the story was very interesting. Unfortunately, it was very short lived. A rekindling of that romance would have helped this story. The story is interesting throughout the book. Despite this, the story overall seemed to be missing something. I think the story just isn’t deep enough.
December 27, 2018
Now, this is a something I liked. I've seen lots of talk about what would have happened if Lizzie had accepted Darcy's first proposal because that was only halfway through the book. Darcy needed to be rejected to grow and Lizzie needed to be confronted with how she was wrong to grow, but in this book the two of them marry before this ever happens. Lizzie still finds Darcy insufferable and prideful, while Darcy remains thinking that putting a woman and her family down is the best way to propose to them.
I really enjoyed this book. I like the marriage of convenience trope anyway and this one did it really nicely, giving Lizzie a good reason to accept Darcy even against her principles. I liked seeing how the two of them had to learn and grow in the marriage itself and how Lizzie had to put up with the ton and their opinions on her (very similar to Caroline Bingley), all the while not getting the support of her husband because she doesn't trust him with what she is feeling. Things took an unexpected turn near the end with the but I think this is one time where a strange twist is actually done well, in that it felt like Darcy, Lizzie and Bingley all reacted as they would of if it had actually happened. Plus Jane got a chance to shine and Lydia gets reformed in a way that takes into account that she is a young, naive girl who acts very irresponsibly at times.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who likes the marriage of convenience trope and P&P variations. 4 stars!
I really enjoyed this book. I like the marriage of convenience trope anyway and this one did it really nicely, giving Lizzie a good reason to accept Darcy even against her principles. I liked seeing how the two of them had to learn and grow in the marriage itself and how Lizzie had to put up with the ton and their opinions on her (very similar to Caroline Bingley), all the while not getting the support of her husband because she doesn't trust him with what she is feeling. Things took an unexpected turn near the end with the but I think this is one time where a strange twist is actually done well, in that it felt like Darcy, Lizzie and Bingley all reacted as they would of if it had actually happened. Plus Jane got a chance to shine and Lydia gets reformed in a way that takes into account that she is a young, naive girl who acts very irresponsibly at times.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who likes the marriage of convenience trope and P&P variations. 4 stars!
December 30, 2024
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. What if Elizabeth Bennet had accepted Mr Darcy's proposal in Kent? What if they married before he stopped being the proud, arrogant man she detested? What if, in order to avoid the ruin of her beloved sister, Elizabeth chose to swallow her pride and say yes to a pre-reform Darcy? Mr Bingley has left Netherfield, and in his stead a rich and unscrupulous man takes possession of the manor. While Elizabeth is in Kent, visiting her recently married friend Charlotte, she receives letters which tell her how Jane is soon to be wed to a man Elizabeth can't stand, and then, unbelievably, Mr Darcy, the last man in the world she would ever choose to marry, proposes to her. Elizabeth is torn, but thoughts of rescuing Jane make her do something that will change the course of her life forever. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. What if Elizabeth Bennet had accepted Mr Darcy's proposal in Kent? What if they married before he stopped being the proud, arrogant man she detested? What if, in order to avoid the ruin of her beloved sister, Elizabeth chose to swallow her pride and say yes to a pre-reform Darcy? Mr Bingley has left Netherfield, and in his stead a rich and unscrupulous man takes possession of the manor. While Elizabeth is in Kent, visiting her recently married friend Charlotte, she receives letters which tell her how Jane is soon to be wed to a man Elizabeth can't stand, and then, unbelievably, Mr Darcy, the last man in the world she would ever choose to marry, proposes to her. Elizabeth is torn, but thoughts of rescuing Jane make her do something that will change the course of her life forever. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
March 14, 2019
I loved this book. Some of the P&P variation depicts Darcy as this saccharine sweet husband after they got married, and that always seems strange to me. I much prefer the Darcy in this book: witty yet reserved, not flowery and
Having said that i gave it 4 stars because i do feel like there are elements in this books that are half done. Such as the Auggie, that bit was just thrown in there but left out to dry. The peak in that particular storyline was reached too soon and resolved too quickly. I would’ve like it to be drawn out longer and get the reader to be more curious & give the story a little more angst. I find it strange that such a huge thing was not discussed further in the book, especially during their journey or at least after the emergency was over. Elizabeth never got to meet Auggie or even received any news of her marriage.
Secondly, i feel like the whole kidnapping debacle was over the top and unrealistic.
After the long journey we took with Elizabeth and Darcy i feel that it ended too abruptly. I prefer their finally coming together to be more emotional, their interaction described in more detail. We got glimpses to Darcy’s struggle throughout first pasti the book but none in the latter parts.
I would love to read another 100 pages of this book :)
Having said that i gave it 4 stars because i do feel like there are elements in this books that are half done. Such as the Auggie, that bit was just thrown in there but left out to dry. The peak in that particular storyline was reached too soon and resolved too quickly. I would’ve like it to be drawn out longer and get the reader to be more curious & give the story a little more angst. I find it strange that such a huge thing was not discussed further in the book, especially during their journey or at least after the emergency was over. Elizabeth never got to meet Auggie or even received any news of her marriage.
Secondly, i feel like the whole kidnapping debacle was over the top and unrealistic.
After the long journey we took with Elizabeth and Darcy i feel that it ended too abruptly. I prefer their finally coming together to be more emotional, their interaction described in more detail. We got glimpses to Darcy’s struggle throughout first pasti the book but none in the latter parts.
I would love to read another 100 pages of this book :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2018
Great Plot, OK Execution
The plot is excellent and the story has its ups and downs. My major problem is the this Elizabeth does not have the character and resolve that I see often in other stories. She is dishonest with Darcy and herself and compromises her character. Her deceit is exposed early on after she married Darcy. She begins to feel the weight about half way, but does not address the issue until the next to the last chapter.
The story has plenty of action but it also becomes tedious in the numerous separations that the action requires which keep the resolution of the relationship at bay. In addition, there are numerous lengthy flashbacks to fill in the gaps that are a bit overdone. When the action points occur, the story is very engaging. It is the downs between the action and interim that detracts.
THey deal evaluation is 3.5 stars. The story is OK and most will enjoy it. I have read better variations.
The plot is excellent and the story has its ups and downs. My major problem is the this Elizabeth does not have the character and resolve that I see often in other stories. She is dishonest with Darcy and herself and compromises her character. Her deceit is exposed early on after she married Darcy. She begins to feel the weight about half way, but does not address the issue until the next to the last chapter.
The story has plenty of action but it also becomes tedious in the numerous separations that the action requires which keep the resolution of the relationship at bay. In addition, there are numerous lengthy flashbacks to fill in the gaps that are a bit overdone. When the action points occur, the story is very engaging. It is the downs between the action and interim that detracts.
THey deal evaluation is 3.5 stars. The story is OK and most will enjoy it. I have read better variations.
November 20, 2018
Hmmm confused what to make of this one 🧐
I read a review that said she couldn’t get past 25% of the book. And I have to agree. I almost put it down myself. If anything this book takes to long to get to the climax. I thought at first mr Darcy was the villain. She painted him so arrogantly ewww 😥.
But here’s to staying the corse. The book wasn’t so bad. You must get past 30% of the book (I think) before it gets interesting. So if you don’t mind the pacing. (Cause she kinda rushes the end ...🥴I really couldn’t believe after all that focusing of how bad mr Darcy was, she races to the end)
So that’s more of 3 1/2 stars ✨
I do look forward to seeing her grow as a writer. The first one of her books I read I felt regret that I would never get that time back. But this one was a vast improvement
I read a review that said she couldn’t get past 25% of the book. And I have to agree. I almost put it down myself. If anything this book takes to long to get to the climax. I thought at first mr Darcy was the villain. She painted him so arrogantly ewww 😥.
But here’s to staying the corse. The book wasn’t so bad. You must get past 30% of the book (I think) before it gets interesting. So if you don’t mind the pacing. (Cause she kinda rushes the end ...🥴I really couldn’t believe after all that focusing of how bad mr Darcy was, she races to the end)
So that’s more of 3 1/2 stars ✨
I do look forward to seeing her grow as a writer. The first one of her books I read I felt regret that I would never get that time back. But this one was a vast improvement
December 20, 2018
Fabulous!
This book is a gem. It's so gratifying to read clever, funny, interesting and well written work, and this author has it all. The main characters are a little extreme: Elizabeth extremely set against Darcy; Darcy extremely snooty and blind to anyone's feeling but his own; Lydia extremely dense and spiteful. However these extremities are handled with humor and wit to make them easier to endure. There is plenty of angst, as when Elizabeth accepts Darcy, and when Jane is abducted. But there is always something charming thrown in to balance it out. This is not a comedy, but there were several laugh-out-loud passages. I hope this author continues to write more JAFF stories. I'm a fan
This book is a gem. It's so gratifying to read clever, funny, interesting and well written work, and this author has it all. The main characters are a little extreme: Elizabeth extremely set against Darcy; Darcy extremely snooty and blind to anyone's feeling but his own; Lydia extremely dense and spiteful. However these extremities are handled with humor and wit to make them easier to endure. There is plenty of angst, as when Elizabeth accepts Darcy, and when Jane is abducted. But there is always something charming thrown in to balance it out. This is not a comedy, but there were several laugh-out-loud passages. I hope this author continues to write more JAFF stories. I'm a fan
March 26, 2019
The Unreformed Mr. Darcy (TUMD) was an interesting, if somewhat predictable, story. I knew, when Elizabeth wrote her list, that it would be back to haunt her later. Similarly, I had a strong feeling we hadn’t seen the last of Wickham after his first major scene. (Sorry for being vague, but I’m avoiding spoilers.)
That said, I enjoyed the story. The final “adventure” was new and well thought-out. I question the speed of the characters’ mental recoveries, however. I would think something so traumatizing would have further reaching mental health issues.
I wish there had been a more extended epilogue. It would have been nice to see more of everyone’s lives, and to know Colonel Fitzwilliam’s fate. But TUMD was still a great read.
That said, I enjoyed the story. The final “adventure” was new and well thought-out. I question the speed of the characters’ mental recoveries, however. I would think something so traumatizing would have further reaching mental health issues.
I wish there had been a more extended epilogue. It would have been nice to see more of everyone’s lives, and to know Colonel Fitzwilliam’s fate. But TUMD was still a great read.
November 17, 2018
Very interesting and engaging; it was hard to put down! The book works very well within Jane Austen's universe, I think, although the events in the second part of the book were much more dramatic than I had expected. The progression of Lizzy and Darcy's relationship was also entirely believable. I also enjoyed some of the characters (to avoid spoilers) being somewhat reformed. I only have one minor quibble - I found the ending a little underwhelming. I guess I had expected more "page-time" and more romance between Lizzy and Darcy at the end? And maybe the three words from her? Still, a very well-written book, and a definite rec from me.
December 2, 2018
Delightful!
I don't know if it's the title or something, but I judged a book by its cover and therefore picked it up with some trepidation. Maybe it's because the whole "unreformed Darcy" trope cam be difficult to pull off without turning either of the main characters into a caricature. And at the beginning I did want to shake Elizabeth by the shoulders a bit. But very soon all that was left behind and both E and D emerged as flawed but human and quite three dimensional, even before undergoing their respective transformations. Jane is also a wonderfully steady character here. Bingley as well shows more depth. A wonderful variation.
I don't know if it's the title or something, but I judged a book by its cover and therefore picked it up with some trepidation. Maybe it's because the whole "unreformed Darcy" trope cam be difficult to pull off without turning either of the main characters into a caricature. And at the beginning I did want to shake Elizabeth by the shoulders a bit. But very soon all that was left behind and both E and D emerged as flawed but human and quite three dimensional, even before undergoing their respective transformations. Jane is also a wonderfully steady character here. Bingley as well shows more depth. A wonderful variation.
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