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Drawing Mr. Darcy #2
Drawing Mr. Darcy: A Faithful Portrait
Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy are betrothed. But when disaster strikes, is their happily-ever-after at stake?Ever since Mr. Bingley and his party arrived at Netherfield, Elizabeth’s pleasant sojourn at Longbourn has been upended. For the first time, drawing someone’s portrait has not been enough to understand his character. Although Elizabeth Bennet Russell has sketched Mr. Darcy’s expressions often and with great care, she still cannot figure him out—that is, until he confesses that he has fallen in love with her.By the time Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy share a dance at the Netherfield Ball, they are well on their way to marriage. Then her cousin, the Marquess of Tavistock, arrives from London with Elizabeth’s Aunt Olivia is seriously ill, and there’s been a threat against both Russell women.It’s not long before there are also rumors floating around London about the source of Phillip Russell’s wealth. This is in addition to the letter purportedly written by Darcy’s father insisting that his son marry Anne de Bourgh as well as several disturbing thefts from Darcy's own townhome.As the attacks pile up, tempers begin to flare. Will Darcy be able to stop the culprit before Elizabeth's powerful Russell relations try to separate them for good?This is a full-length novel at approximately 82,000 words and is the second of two books in the Drawing Mr. Darcy series.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
April 1, 2025
Why do two colors, put one next to the other, sing? Can one really explain this? No. ~ Pablo Picasso
Neither can anyone explain why two people placed next to each other sing – but we can all hear Our Dear Couple sing.
This is the second part of the “Drawing Mr. Darcy” series. The author does not re-cap the first book to begin this, so it is necessary to read these in order.
Our story begins with Darcy’s interview with Mr. Bennet. Mr. Collins enters prepared to court Elizabeth with approval from Mrs. Bennet.
Color is my day-long obsession, joy and torment. ~ Claude Monet
A great new character emerges – Bingley’s Aunt (call me Auntie) Cleopatra! Her obsession, joy and torment is similar to Monet – the colors of the sky: specifically Birds of every variety. She vows to aid Miss Bingley in decorating for a ball at Netherfield.
Two non-guests interrupt the Bingley ball. Elizabeth’s cousin arrives with news of a threat to her Aunt and herself. Plans are in place to travel to London at once.
Before Darcy can leave, Lady Catherine intrudes on the ball waving a letter from Darcy’s father committing to a marriage between his son and Anne de Bourgh.
Is the letter legitimate or a forgery?
Are the separate threats related?
The hunt for a villain intensifies. Who has a grievance against the Darcys and also the Russels? The mystery is well-crafted and held my interest to the end. I did think the culprit got off a little too easy.
Great story with minimal errata (proofreaders: my heroes). For me, it lacked some of the charm of the first story with the child Elizabeth but the last line made up for it. I loved it!
I cannot pretend to feel impartial about colors. I rejoice with the brilliant ones and am genuinely sorry for the poor browns. ~ Winston Churchill
Neither can anyone explain why two people placed next to each other sing – but we can all hear Our Dear Couple sing.
This is the second part of the “Drawing Mr. Darcy” series. The author does not re-cap the first book to begin this, so it is necessary to read these in order.
Our story begins with Darcy’s interview with Mr. Bennet. Mr. Collins enters prepared to court Elizabeth with approval from Mrs. Bennet.
Color is my day-long obsession, joy and torment. ~ Claude Monet
A great new character emerges – Bingley’s Aunt (call me Auntie) Cleopatra! Her obsession, joy and torment is similar to Monet – the colors of the sky: specifically Birds of every variety. She vows to aid Miss Bingley in decorating for a ball at Netherfield.
Two non-guests interrupt the Bingley ball. Elizabeth’s cousin arrives with news of a threat to her Aunt and herself. Plans are in place to travel to London at once.
Before Darcy can leave, Lady Catherine intrudes on the ball waving a letter from Darcy’s father committing to a marriage between his son and Anne de Bourgh.
Is the letter legitimate or a forgery?
Are the separate threats related?
The hunt for a villain intensifies. Who has a grievance against the Darcys and also the Russels? The mystery is well-crafted and held my interest to the end. I did think the culprit got off a little too easy.
Great story with minimal errata (proofreaders: my heroes). For me, it lacked some of the charm of the first story with the child Elizabeth but the last line made up for it. I loved it!
I cannot pretend to feel impartial about colors. I rejoice with the brilliant ones and am genuinely sorry for the poor browns. ~ Winston Churchill
April 8, 2023
A good book but less than I hoped for
If I hadn’t read the first book, I wouldn’t have enjoyed this one as much. Once again the writing was very enjoyable to read. But for me, the plot went north a bit. The Lizzy from this story turned into a super Lizzy. This was a distraction.
It is hard to suspend belief as much as necessary for the plot having Lizzy being a better investor than Warren Buffet. Or that a woman would be allowed to act so by the society of her time. I think I would have enjoyed the plot better as a modern retelling.
But besides the above mentioned, this was still a fun and enjoyable book to read. Wickham was something else in the story. A much scarier bad guy. It’s hard to believe that the only consequence for his actions was being impressed into the navy. What to keep him from jumping ship and finding away to start shooting at Lizzy and Darcy again. I would have thought the Duke would have done more.
I recommend this book.
If I hadn’t read the first book, I wouldn’t have enjoyed this one as much. Once again the writing was very enjoyable to read. But for me, the plot went north a bit. The Lizzy from this story turned into a super Lizzy. This was a distraction.
It is hard to suspend belief as much as necessary for the plot having Lizzy being a better investor than Warren Buffet. Or that a woman would be allowed to act so by the society of her time. I think I would have enjoyed the plot better as a modern retelling.
But besides the above mentioned, this was still a fun and enjoyable book to read. Wickham was something else in the story. A much scarier bad guy. It’s hard to believe that the only consequence for his actions was being impressed into the navy. What to keep him from jumping ship and finding away to start shooting at Lizzy and Darcy again. I would have thought the Duke would have done more.
I recommend this book.
July 28, 2019
*Not to be read as a standalone book; part 2 of a two-volume work, and both are better read after reading Pride and Prejudice*
The Drawing Mr. Darcy duology takes the story of Pride and Prejudice in a different direction from the very beginning, removing Elizabeth from the household at the age of ten to be raised by a great-aunt and uncle. This change reshapes all the characters as well as the course of events. The great-aunt and uncle also provide, for example, a governess for the other four girls, so they are raised in a more conventional manner, making them all more ladylike and less flighty and inappropriate. Mary is perhaps the greatest beneficiary, but Kitty and Lydia save themselves and others a world of trouble as a result.
The page space saved by the loss of their misbehavior is taken up by a great expansion in the scope and complexity of Elizabeth's challenges. Her great-aunt and uncle have made her an heiress and thus a target, so this book has a lot of action-adventure to accompany the romance. The romance here is of a typical modern-romance sort, all suppressed desire and smoldering glances--not my cup of tea, and out of place in the context of the period. So I enjoyed the first novel, which had a lot about character, more.
Nevertheless, threaded through both of the novels is a wide band of family love, which elevates the characters and makes them easy to attach to. Over and over, people rise above conflict to show compassion toward the foibles and misdeeds of others, and that grace under pressure was inspiring to me. In the end I could do no less than extend that grace to the books, despite the annoyances of modern (and excessively American) language and mores.
The Drawing Mr. Darcy duology takes the story of Pride and Prejudice in a different direction from the very beginning, removing Elizabeth from the household at the age of ten to be raised by a great-aunt and uncle. This change reshapes all the characters as well as the course of events. The great-aunt and uncle also provide, for example, a governess for the other four girls, so they are raised in a more conventional manner, making them all more ladylike and less flighty and inappropriate. Mary is perhaps the greatest beneficiary, but Kitty and Lydia save themselves and others a world of trouble as a result.
The page space saved by the loss of their misbehavior is taken up by a great expansion in the scope and complexity of Elizabeth's challenges. Her great-aunt and uncle have made her an heiress and thus a target, so this book has a lot of action-adventure to accompany the romance. The romance here is of a typical modern-romance sort, all suppressed desire and smoldering glances--not my cup of tea, and out of place in the context of the period. So I enjoyed the first novel, which had a lot about character, more.
Nevertheless, threaded through both of the novels is a wide band of family love, which elevates the characters and makes them easy to attach to. Over and over, people rise above conflict to show compassion toward the foibles and misdeeds of others, and that grace under pressure was inspiring to me. In the end I could do no less than extend that grace to the books, despite the annoyances of modern (and excessively American) language and mores.
April 18, 2020
First, as others have stated, this is Book 2 of 'Drawing Mr. Darcy' and immediately picks up where the last book ended. Highly recommend you read Book 1 first. Second, I now do wish it was all one book. Or, that this one was just a bit more developed on several fronts. Don't get me wrong, I still thoroughly enjoyed it!
Some highlights:
1. Mr. Darcy is very ardent...
2. Mr. Collins is very obtuse...
3. Miss Mary is very clever and such a delight...
4. Mr. Bennet is very firm...
5. Mrs. Bennet is very distraught...
6. Miss Elizabeth is in danger...
The Netherfield Ball was explosive, especially between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy. Their love was not just ardent, it was powerful...like a bolt of lightening let us loose from Zeus himself!
"That is not disapproval. It is love. Not polite love...Her mind was awash with light and color, but everything else around her melted away. She lacked the words to describe it, the images to draw it. It was to be felt, not described. There was only him." (quote from the book)
But soon things start taking a darker, dangerous turn. A villain from the Russell's past and Darcy's emerges with a vengeance. Lives are in danger and Elizabeth's Aunt is losing strength. The Russell's pull rank and whisk Elizabeth off to London. Darcy, of course, goes with her. They also have to meet to discuss Elizabeth's wealth and the marriage settlement. But things don't go according to plan.
I think it is here where I feel things were rushed. Yes, the danger lurks very close at hand and the anxiousness is felt. But, for me, the thread of how Aunt Olivia and Uncle Russell helped to train and guide Elizabeth in her investments was somewhat lost. For that is a large part of the first book. In the rush to marriage and how wealthy they are was too quickly moved through. I feel the first book should have included everything up to their marriage, and the second book should have delved more into their life after marriage and all that would have entailed. The thread of Mary's character was also too quickly dealt with in this book. I just wanted more development there than what was given in the epilogue.
Despite these quibbles on my part, I still enjoyed it. But I must say, the scene at the the Netherfield Ball was absolutely electrifying and exploded off the page!
April 22, 2020
Do you remember when Elizabeth was mocking Mr. Darcy about the six accomplished ladies he said he knew? Well, in this variation, Elizabeth is one of these "fantastical" ladies, since she is near perfection here, what's always boring (IMO).
July 17, 2022
Great Book Two
Reviewed in Canada on February 17, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this second book of Drawing Mr. Darcy. It is a wonderfully written continuation of Book One, which I also loved. The dialogue in both books is so good, very funny banter between many of the characters. This doesn’t follow canon and is a definite page turner. Highly recommend.
Reviewed in Canada on February 17, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this second book of Drawing Mr. Darcy. It is a wonderfully written continuation of Book One, which I also loved. The dialogue in both books is so good, very funny banter between many of the characters. This doesn’t follow canon and is a definite page turner. Highly recommend.
November 22, 2018
Wonderful story
This is a great continuation of Drawing Mr Darcy. I laughed at various times and cried as well. It is well written and tells a marvellous tale. This series is one I will read again and again.
This is a great continuation of Drawing Mr Darcy. I laughed at various times and cried as well. It is well written and tells a marvellous tale. This series is one I will read again and again.
August 2, 2019
This story is a sequel and it is necessary to read the first story. In it we have Darcy applying to court Elizabeth. While he would have preferred an engagement this is at her insistence. She knows much about him from her best friend, Georgiana, and others but his behavior in her presence has been at times contradictory to their opinions.
There are moments of romance here but the main premise is the threats, both in letter form and as physical form as evidence of a menace become evident. There are ponderings as to whether these are all related or if they are simply coincidental: items missing from households, a letter from Darcy's father showing up NOW, the fact that a man servant is noticed taking and then returning Elizabeth's outgoing mail, a shot fired at Elizabeth while riding her horse and another fired at a carriage, etc. To add to the worry is the fact that Aunt Olivia is taken ill after she receives an anonymous threatening letter.
Elizabeth departs Hertfordshire to join her ill aunt at their Kensington house outside of London. The Russell family and the Fitzwilliam/Darcy families investigate and search for one (or more) culprits in these dire incidents. Servants are questioned and guards are hired. The colonel is a main figure here. As the wedding approaches Darcy learns that Elizabeth's fortunes just may outweigh his and then there are contracts to set up who manages what and how.
Part of the darkness looming over the families are rumors about how Phillip Russell obtained his wealth: did he own slaves and traffic in that commodity? We read about how he and Olivia met and how their relationship further developed.
We continue to also learn how Elizabeth is managing her investments and how the house in Kensington is being renovated for permanent residence as well as the greenhouses begin prepared to grow and sell pineapples, a rare and much sought after fruit in England.
The Bennet family is part of this story even though Elizabeth is no longer residing at Longbourn. We have an epilogue in which each sister's future is given while we read of Mr. Bennet enjoying being a grandfather.
I enjoyed this story as much the second time as the first.
Throughout both books we read of Elizabeth's talent as an artist. Her muse compels her to draw some portraits over and over again as she views in various people and their profile different sides to their character. It is significant that Darcy accidently coming upon the number of drawing of himself leads him to admit his feelings to himself while Elizabeth is "nursing" Jane at Netherfield.
There are moments of romance here but the main premise is the threats, both in letter form and as physical form as evidence of a menace become evident. There are ponderings as to whether these are all related or if they are simply coincidental: items missing from households, a letter from Darcy's father showing up NOW, the fact that a man servant is noticed taking and then returning Elizabeth's outgoing mail, a shot fired at Elizabeth while riding her horse and another fired at a carriage, etc. To add to the worry is the fact that Aunt Olivia is taken ill after she receives an anonymous threatening letter.
Elizabeth departs Hertfordshire to join her ill aunt at their Kensington house outside of London. The Russell family and the Fitzwilliam/Darcy families investigate and search for one (or more) culprits in these dire incidents. Servants are questioned and guards are hired. The colonel is a main figure here. As the wedding approaches Darcy learns that Elizabeth's fortunes just may outweigh his and then there are contracts to set up who manages what and how.
Part of the darkness looming over the families are rumors about how Phillip Russell obtained his wealth: did he own slaves and traffic in that commodity? We read about how he and Olivia met and how their relationship further developed.
We continue to also learn how Elizabeth is managing her investments and how the house in Kensington is being renovated for permanent residence as well as the greenhouses begin prepared to grow and sell pineapples, a rare and much sought after fruit in England.
The Bennet family is part of this story even though Elizabeth is no longer residing at Longbourn. We have an epilogue in which each sister's future is given while we read of Mr. Bennet enjoying being a grandfather.
I enjoyed this story as much the second time as the first.
Throughout both books we read of Elizabeth's talent as an artist. Her muse compels her to draw some portraits over and over again as she views in various people and their profile different sides to their character. It is significant that Darcy accidently coming upon the number of drawing of himself leads him to admit his feelings to himself while Elizabeth is "nursing" Jane at Netherfield.
August 8, 2022
Book two continues Elizabeth's story in Hertfordshire, finally meeting Darcy. He is as insulting as ever.
After some time with the Bennet's and becoming friends with Darcy, a threat is exposed and she is accompanied earlier to London to be with her aunt again.
This book is a little faster paced, as there is drama and angst. Also, a HEA for ODC.
Loved the writing, does not lag. keeps the reader invested in what is going to happen next.
Will gladly reread over and over!
After some time with the Bennet's and becoming friends with Darcy, a threat is exposed and she is accompanied earlier to London to be with her aunt again.
This book is a little faster paced, as there is drama and angst. Also, a HEA for ODC.
Loved the writing, does not lag. keeps the reader invested in what is going to happen next.
Will gladly reread over and over!
November 22, 2018
Avid Reader
The capturing of Wickham was amazing. True to form, his anger led to his mistakes. Elizabeth is an heiress whose wealth over shadows Darcy's. She doesn't know how wealthy she is until her aunt dies. The road to marriage is not easy, but it happens. Caroline Bingley has to eat her words from Book One, especially after she discovers Elizabeth 's true identity. 👍
The capturing of Wickham was amazing. True to form, his anger led to his mistakes. Elizabeth is an heiress whose wealth over shadows Darcy's. She doesn't know how wealthy she is until her aunt dies. The road to marriage is not easy, but it happens. Caroline Bingley has to eat her words from Book One, especially after she discovers Elizabeth 's true identity. 👍
May 14, 2025
Status: Read May 1-13, 2025 via kindle edition & audible edition of Drawing Mr. Darcy: A Pride & Prejudice Duology (Drawing Mr. Darcy, #1-2)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)
Edition Read:
Drawing Mr. Darcy: A Faithful Portrait (Drawing Mr. Darcy, #2)
by Melanie Rachel
Kindle Edition, 261 pages
Published November 21, 2018 by Melanie Rachel (first published November 11, 2018)
ASIN: B07KCJDK4P
[ kindle unlimited ]
Ever since Mr. Bingley and his party arrived at Netherfield, Elizabeth's pleasant sojourn at Longbourn has been upended.
For the first time, drawing someone's portrait has not been enough to understand his character. Although Elizabeth Bennet Russell has sketched Mr. Darcy's expressions with great care, she still cannot figure him out–that is, until he confesses that he has fallen in love with her.
By the time Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy share a dance at the Netherfield Ball, they seem well on their way to a happily-ever-after. Then her cousin, the Marquess of Tavistock, arrives from London with news: Elizabeth's Aunt Olivia is seriously ill, and there's been a threat against both Russell women. It's not long before there are also rumors floating around London about the source of Phillip Russell's wealth. Then there is a letter purportedly written by Darcy's father insisting that he marry Anne de Bourgh as well as several disturbing thefts from his townhome.
As the attacks begin to pile up, tempers begin to flare. Will Darcy be able to find out before Elizabeth's powerful Russell relations decide to cut him out of her life for good?
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)
Edition Read:
Drawing Mr. Darcy: A Faithful Portrait (Drawing Mr. Darcy, #2)
by Melanie Rachel
Kindle Edition, 261 pages
Published November 21, 2018 by Melanie Rachel (first published November 11, 2018)
ASIN: B07KCJDK4P
[ kindle unlimited ]
Ever since Mr. Bingley and his party arrived at Netherfield, Elizabeth's pleasant sojourn at Longbourn has been upended.
For the first time, drawing someone's portrait has not been enough to understand his character. Although Elizabeth Bennet Russell has sketched Mr. Darcy's expressions with great care, she still cannot figure him out–that is, until he confesses that he has fallen in love with her.
By the time Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy share a dance at the Netherfield Ball, they seem well on their way to a happily-ever-after. Then her cousin, the Marquess of Tavistock, arrives from London with news: Elizabeth's Aunt Olivia is seriously ill, and there's been a threat against both Russell women. It's not long before there are also rumors floating around London about the source of Phillip Russell's wealth. Then there is a letter purportedly written by Darcy's father insisting that he marry Anne de Bourgh as well as several disturbing thefts from his townhome.
As the attacks begin to pile up, tempers begin to flare. Will Darcy be able to find out before Elizabeth's powerful Russell relations decide to cut him out of her life for good?
July 17, 2024
3.5 drawing stars
November 29, 2018
The second book in the "Drawing Mr Darcy" serie. If you have not read book one, I would advice you to do so.
This book was first and foremost a love story, that does not mean that the schemes or the drama had come to an end, quite the contrary.
Entered where the first book left off, in Mr Bennet's study, discussing the courtship of ODC. The Netherfield ball followed with happiness for two of our couples but also some worrisome news. They had to face a fierce enemy.
I have laughed and cried while reading this book, love to be moved though.
Heartily recommend this book!
This book was first and foremost a love story, that does not mean that the schemes or the drama had come to an end, quite the contrary.
Entered where the first book left off, in Mr Bennet's study, discussing the courtship of ODC. The Netherfield ball followed with happiness for two of our couples but also some worrisome news. They had to face a fierce enemy.
I have laughed and cried while reading this book, love to be moved though.
Heartily recommend this book!
August 6, 2022
What an awesome 2-book seriess!! Melanie Rachel has such a wonderful talent for writing that one feels as though they are not reading the words, but are a witness to what is happening in each scene. The story never lags or seems wanting in any way. Definitely a must read for all JAFF/JA fans!!
June 1, 2021
This book was a wonderful conclusion to the first. It leads us through Elizabeth and Darcy working through the mystery of who is stealing and sending notes. I loved the interaction between the characters as Darcy realizes where Elizabeth is strong and where she is not. I was also in tears based on the relationship with her Aunt.
Books that make me cry are always winners to me. They have made me invest my emotions in the characters. Luckily, I bought this one and I will be happy to read it again.
Books that make me cry are always winners to me. They have made me invest my emotions in the characters. Luckily, I bought this one and I will be happy to read it again.
June 10, 2025
Books 1&2 very sweet and way off canon but lovely anyway. Not much angst. Wickham was truly a villain but got his in the end. Nice epilogue at the end of book two. Very satisfying.
July 9, 2024
“Drawing is an illustration of the soul. The better you draw, the stronger your soul gets.” –PS Tavishi
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mature teen: due to discussions of an adult nature. Language: British cursing.
>>Angst Level: Yep, there be angst. Whew! I nearly wore out my pacemaker, just saying
>>Source: Own: Purchased 5-28-21
>>Trope: [1] Elizabeth is not raised a Bennet [2] Connections, titles, and wealth out the wazoo.
“It just feels like meeting him again was like seeing a blank paper ready to be sketched, a different idea to be drawn.” –Basma Salem, The Art of Black
Book 2 continues the story and the reader’s hope of a HEA for Elizabeth Bennet Russell. Yeah, ODG was a Russell with wealth to die for. Well, Caroline would regret her attitude and snotty words from the first book when she learned the true identity and wealth of her adversary/rival. Like she ever had a chance with Mr. Darcy.
“Dibujar es descubrir las líneas del tiempo.” –Aleandro Mos Riera, Infinita belleza [Drawing is discovering the lines of time]
The smoke and mirrors and outright lies were insidious as the villain[s] plotted against the Russell Family and Mr. Darcy. Things started disappearing from Darcy House. Lies and gossip were rife throughout the Ton regarding the source of the Russell fortune. This was shaking the very ground on which the family stood. What was going on? Who was behind this blatant attack on the family?
Oh, and let’s not forget that lady from Kent. Lady Catherine arrived at Netherfield under a full head of steam. She interrupted a ball in progress and was demanding to be heard. She was waving a letter supposedly from Darcy’s father approving a marriage between his son and Anne de Bourgh. Oh, good grief. The reader, and Fitzwilliam, knew the letter had to be a forgery. But who wrote it? The usual suspect always comes to mind. But how to prove it?
DAMAGE CONTROL:
Drawing Mr. Darcy Series
Book 1: Sketching His Character
Book 2: A Faithful Portrait
“Drawing makes you see things clearer, and clearer, and clearer still. The image is passing through you in a physiological way, into your brain, into your memory – where it stays – it’s transmitted by your hands.” –Martin Gayford, A Bigger Message: Conversations with David Hockney
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mature teen: due to discussions of an adult nature. Language: British cursing.
>>Angst Level: Yep, there be angst. Whew! I nearly wore out my pacemaker, just saying
>>Source: Own: Purchased 5-28-21
>>Trope: [1] Elizabeth is not raised a Bennet [2] Connections, titles, and wealth out the wazoo.
“It just feels like meeting him again was like seeing a blank paper ready to be sketched, a different idea to be drawn.” –Basma Salem, The Art of Black
Book 2 continues the story and the reader’s hope of a HEA for Elizabeth Bennet Russell. Yeah, ODG was a Russell with wealth to die for. Well, Caroline would regret her attitude and snotty words from the first book when she learned the true identity and wealth of her adversary/rival. Like she ever had a chance with Mr. Darcy.
“Dibujar es descubrir las líneas del tiempo.” –Aleandro Mos Riera, Infinita belleza [Drawing is discovering the lines of time]
The smoke and mirrors and outright lies were insidious as the villain[s] plotted against the Russell Family and Mr. Darcy. Things started disappearing from Darcy House. Lies and gossip were rife throughout the Ton regarding the source of the Russell fortune. This was shaking the very ground on which the family stood. What was going on? Who was behind this blatant attack on the family?
Oh, and let’s not forget that lady from Kent. Lady Catherine arrived at Netherfield under a full head of steam. She interrupted a ball in progress and was demanding to be heard. She was waving a letter supposedly from Darcy’s father approving a marriage between his son and Anne de Bourgh. Oh, good grief. The reader, and Fitzwilliam, knew the letter had to be a forgery. But who wrote it? The usual suspect always comes to mind. But how to prove it?
DAMAGE CONTROL:
Drawing Mr. Darcy Series
Book 1: Sketching His Character
Book 2: A Faithful Portrait
“Drawing makes you see things clearer, and clearer, and clearer still. The image is passing through you in a physiological way, into your brain, into your memory – where it stays – it’s transmitted by your hands.” –Martin Gayford, A Bigger Message: Conversations with David Hockney
August 29, 2019
Disappointed in the second half of this story. It starts in the middle of the last chapter of book 1 with more detail, and it definitely could not stand alone. Everything in it could have been added to the first book and the Wickham storyline could have been less drawn out - or even dropped, as it wasn’t great and not enough for a second book. The middle of the book felt like it was added afterwards, as the start and end fitted in to the whole more naturally and were better written. Switching halfway to Richard (Fitzwilliam) and Fitzwilliam (Darcy) to describe the men was confusing; Lizzy could have changed her address to them but the surnames be kept for description to be consistent with earlier in book, or they could be referred to as Richard and Darcy as later in book. There were also quite a few Americanisms/ some anachronistic language and some other editorial mistakes that need tidying up, mostly in the middle of the book.
October 20, 2022
I enjoyed this but as with the first book there are too many editing problems for a book at this price.
The end of the story got ridiculous with the amounts of wealth mentioned, in my opinion.
I liked the relationship between Elizabeth and her aunt (and uncle, I should have mentioned that in my other review).
I loved Darcy and Elizabeth relationship and the author gets Elizabeth’s wit just right.
The end of the story got ridiculous with the amounts of wealth mentioned, in my opinion.
I liked the relationship between Elizabeth and her aunt (and uncle, I should have mentioned that in my other review).
I loved Darcy and Elizabeth relationship and the author gets Elizabeth’s wit just right.
October 27, 2025
In this Pride and & Prejudice variation the story continues of Elizabeth Bennet Russell and Mr. Darcy. The story unfolds with the arrival of Mr. Collins, Lady Catherine and Wickham, with varying threats to the couple.
I enjoyed this well-written story but would love to also read the concurrent story of the Bennets after Elizabeth had left and more about the other Bennet daughters' romances.
I enjoyed this well-written story but would love to also read the concurrent story of the Bennets after Elizabeth had left and more about the other Bennet daughters' romances.
February 23, 2019
The author does several things I really liked in this book: 1) elevate Mary to someone who truly sparkles, 2) elevate Elizabeth's station to match her superior personality, and 3) have a sense of humor about Darcy's almost stalker-like behavior. Well written and enjoyable.
February 28, 2022
I loved it. This book has been out there for Austenesque literature lovers for 2 1/2 yrs and it's been hanging out with some other great company in my TBR pile waiting patiently for me to wake up. But the first Rachel book series I read was the Courage Rises series (recommended!) about 1 1/2 yrs ago, then nothing else until last fall with A Gentleman's Honor. That book really made my brain stand up and pay attention, and I'm finally getting around to reading at least those I already own!
The blurbs are as much enticement as I needed to read them, and the great reviews should be more than enough to tell you whether or not you would like this series. I have nothing to add to those reviews. But, boy oh boy, can this woman write! Highly recommended. Beginning with Book #1, I would readily argue it's a great Regency read even if you aren't a particular fan of Austen variations.
****I do have one argument and it's my own opinion, which I'm entitled to as much as others with theirs. In response to those who think this was too modern or unrealistic. I've read factual historical info about women whose parents or grandparents raised them in wealth, responsibility and education because they valued those things themselves, didn't have male heirs to pass everything on to, or insisted that the wealth the woman brought to her marriage would not be stolen from her husband because of mismanagement or worse, but be held in place for her children. The wealthy did this. That's why marriage contracts were a big thing. If you were only moderately supporting your family and had little dowry to send off with a daughter, the wealthier of the pair would've held the dice, so-to-speak. The man. There were many men paid to be in charge of those large dowries on the woman's behalf, and yes subject to fraudulent neglect if there was not very strict language surrounding access to the monies. But there were heiresses, who brought large sums with them, who held the intelligence of the numbers and laws, and who had the control. I do wish, along with one review I read, that we could've observed more of these financial lessons Elizabeth learned from her Aunt and Uncle until she spent her time at Longbourn again before meeting Darcy. But if you pay attention, you DO get to see this. As she talks to Mary about what she's reading in the newspaper. The fact that she subscribes to newspapers above what Mr. Bennet gets. All the business letters she has to write. We have to learn what she has already learned. But we don't actually see it happening while she was young. That was probably left on the cutting floor. Think of how long the story would've been with all that in it. One of my most favorite scenes in this story was when Elizabeth reveals to Darcy (after she has accepted him, and he has asked Mr. Bennet's approval,) that she could not be the kind of wife and mistress of Pemberley he would expect of her. She would make sure her duties to Pemberley were fullfilled, but that wouldn't be her job. It was shocking and inspirational. His reaction is what lets us know whether Darcy is the right man for her or not. In this and many other scenes, the story proves its unique plot, an extension and twist upon Elizabeth: Obstinate, Headstrong Girl. And I was so ready for a story where Elizabeth wasn't fighting past her upbringing every step of the way to achieve her own. She wasn't kidnapped from a rich family and raised unloved by Mrs. Bennet. She wasn't thrown away like trash to be found by a nicer, richer family. Thomas Bennet reluctantly allowed his little spark to go stay with his aunt knowing she had a better chance away from his wife. I was also ready for a story that wasn't an endless repeat of what we already know; that women had nearly zero choices in life, and nearly zero say over those choices. Like all history, there have been some better realities for some.
The blurbs are as much enticement as I needed to read them, and the great reviews should be more than enough to tell you whether or not you would like this series. I have nothing to add to those reviews. But, boy oh boy, can this woman write! Highly recommended. Beginning with Book #1, I would readily argue it's a great Regency read even if you aren't a particular fan of Austen variations.
****I do have one argument and it's my own opinion, which I'm entitled to as much as others with theirs. In response to those who think this was too modern or unrealistic. I've read factual historical info about women whose parents or grandparents raised them in wealth, responsibility and education because they valued those things themselves, didn't have male heirs to pass everything on to, or insisted that the wealth the woman brought to her marriage would not be stolen from her husband because of mismanagement or worse, but be held in place for her children. The wealthy did this. That's why marriage contracts were a big thing. If you were only moderately supporting your family and had little dowry to send off with a daughter, the wealthier of the pair would've held the dice, so-to-speak. The man. There were many men paid to be in charge of those large dowries on the woman's behalf, and yes subject to fraudulent neglect if there was not very strict language surrounding access to the monies. But there were heiresses, who brought large sums with them, who held the intelligence of the numbers and laws, and who had the control. I do wish, along with one review I read, that we could've observed more of these financial lessons Elizabeth learned from her Aunt and Uncle until she spent her time at Longbourn again before meeting Darcy. But if you pay attention, you DO get to see this. As she talks to Mary about what she's reading in the newspaper. The fact that she subscribes to newspapers above what Mr. Bennet gets. All the business letters she has to write. We have to learn what she has already learned. But we don't actually see it happening while she was young. That was probably left on the cutting floor. Think of how long the story would've been with all that in it. One of my most favorite scenes in this story was when Elizabeth reveals to Darcy (after she has accepted him, and he has asked Mr. Bennet's approval,) that she could not be the kind of wife and mistress of Pemberley he would expect of her. She would make sure her duties to Pemberley were fullfilled, but that wouldn't be her job. It was shocking and inspirational. His reaction is what lets us know whether Darcy is the right man for her or not. In this and many other scenes, the story proves its unique plot, an extension and twist upon Elizabeth: Obstinate, Headstrong Girl. And I was so ready for a story where Elizabeth wasn't fighting past her upbringing every step of the way to achieve her own. She wasn't kidnapped from a rich family and raised unloved by Mrs. Bennet. She wasn't thrown away like trash to be found by a nicer, richer family. Thomas Bennet reluctantly allowed his little spark to go stay with his aunt knowing she had a better chance away from his wife. I was also ready for a story that wasn't an endless repeat of what we already know; that women had nearly zero choices in life, and nearly zero say over those choices. Like all history, there have been some better realities for some.
January 1, 2023
I've never been a fan of the Wickham causing trouble plot in Pride & Prejudice variations.
Thus, they lost me as of Netherfield ball. 90% of the book revolves around this so I didn't care about the story and its characters anymore.
Such a pity because Drawing Mr. Darcy: Sketching His Character (Drawing Mr. Darcy, #1) was a 5/5⭐️ reading for me.
Thus, they lost me as of Netherfield ball. 90% of the book revolves around this so I didn't care about the story and its characters anymore.
Such a pity because Drawing Mr. Darcy: Sketching His Character (Drawing Mr. Darcy, #1) was a 5/5⭐️ reading for me.
April 10, 2021
Beautiful Story
I loved it, A great love story and a wonderful Darcy! I loved the Brussels and finally George Daddy made a good decision for his children and his legacy! Thanks for that lovely epilogue! The villains got their comeuppance and a beautiful ending for the heroes!!!
I loved it, A great love story and a wonderful Darcy! I loved the Brussels and finally George Daddy made a good decision for his children and his legacy! Thanks for that lovely epilogue! The villains got their comeuppance and a beautiful ending for the heroes!!!
August 7, 2023
Weaker than the first part of the story, but still very good.
March 22, 2019
Wonderful story
A really worthwhile tale where there is intrigue and some danger, and the villain gets what is deserved.
I loved this portrayal of Mr Darcy and Elizabeth!
A really worthwhile tale where there is intrigue and some danger, and the villain gets what is deserved.
I loved this portrayal of Mr Darcy and Elizabeth!
August 17, 2021
A perfect end to a great story. A bit of mystery, a bit of thrill, a bit of suspense, a bit of angst, a whole lot of family, friends and romance, a lovely wedding and a brood of children, all woven so beautifully into an enjoyable story. What more can you ask of an author. This duology is the first time I'm reading by this author, but I'm sure it's not going to be the last.
December 17, 2018
Quick read.
I read both books in a this series over a rainy weekend. A good story, told well. Good use of language, very few errors in grammar and spelling (MOST APPRECIATED.) Recommended.
I read both books in a this series over a rainy weekend. A good story, told well. Good use of language, very few errors in grammar and spelling (MOST APPRECIATED.) Recommended.
August 31, 2024
A beautiful, sympathetically written story. Very romantic but not at all soft. The characterisation is excellent.
I heartily recommend this book
I heartily recommend this book
May 22, 2019
This book is not a stand alone book and for best reading pleasure, it's a pretty good idea to read the first book before trying this one or you'll miss the back story. When I started reading, at first I thought the author could have added the first few pages to the end of the last book and ended the whole thing there--call it a day, no extra plot bunnies hounding her for a separate story. In fact, I was a little bored.
However, that did not last. The story is compelling, well articulated, historically interesting, and fairly well edited with the exception of some non-Regency words. Some details near the end (no spoilers) and in the epilogue were a bit over-done but entertaining. The story could almost stand alone without the first book if written with the back-story. Overall, it's equally as good a novel, earning a matching five stars from me.
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author and this author is a fellow Chat Chit, so some might consider this review a conflict of interest; however, it is my honest and unbiased opinion. I was a JAFF reader first, an author second. I frequently add a star to a JAFF review here just so no one says I'm being mean, but in this case, that would make six stars. Honestly.
However, that did not last. The story is compelling, well articulated, historically interesting, and fairly well edited with the exception of some non-Regency words. Some details near the end (no spoilers) and in the epilogue were a bit over-done but entertaining. The story could almost stand alone without the first book if written with the back-story. Overall, it's equally as good a novel, earning a matching five stars from me.
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author and this author is a fellow Chat Chit, so some might consider this review a conflict of interest; however, it is my honest and unbiased opinion. I was a JAFF reader first, an author second. I frequently add a star to a JAFF review here just so no one says I'm being mean, but in this case, that would make six stars. Honestly.
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