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Henry: A Pride & Prejudice Novella
NEW August 2023He likes her. She hates him. The puppy loves them both.Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy and Miss Elizabeth Bennet get off to a rocky start. Can three-month-old Scottish sheepdog, Henry, herd two stubborn individuals together long enough to realize they are the perfect partners for a lifetime? Join in the frustration and fun when Mr. Darcy is forced to retrieve his errant puppy daily as Henry scampers from Netherfield Park to Elizabeth’s home of Longbourn.Told from her point of view, when she repeatedly spies haughty Mr. Darcy humbly showing affection to the puppy, Elizabeth is forced to acknowledge that first impressions might not always be accurate. Danger lurks, causing them to work together until Henry is safe. Is Mr. Darcy’s bark worse than his bite? Will Elizabeth remain as stubborn as a dog with a bone?This 20,000-word novella is a blend of cranky personalities, blooming affection, and wagging puppy tails. Enjoy this Regency variation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice—where it truly is a dog’s life.
90 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 21, 2018
84 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
December 26, 2018
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
Dog lovers will really love this sweet novella. Henry is the name of Mr. Darcy's young border collie, and Elizabeth meets him before encountering his master.
While Darcy is a houseguest at Netherfield, Henry instantly and unshakably attaches himself to Elizabeth, turning up frequently when she is out walking. She can't fathom how such a well-mannered puppy can have such an ill-mannered owner. It's a cute twist on the usual Pride and Prejudice.
Just like the original, the entire story is told from Elizabeth's point of view. Being only novella length, all the action happens in Hertfordshire.
Really cute.
Dog lovers will really love this sweet novella. Henry is the name of Mr. Darcy's young border collie, and Elizabeth meets him before encountering his master.
While Darcy is a houseguest at Netherfield, Henry instantly and unshakably attaches himself to Elizabeth, turning up frequently when she is out walking. She can't fathom how such a well-mannered puppy can have such an ill-mannered owner. It's a cute twist on the usual Pride and Prejudice.
Just like the original, the entire story is told from Elizabeth's point of view. Being only novella length, all the action happens in Hertfordshire.
Really cute.
December 23, 2018
One morning shortly after Mr. Bingley arrives in Meryton Elizabeth Bennet is on her morning walk to Oakham Mount when she falls head over heels in love with a young man, he is a stranger but seems to have come from Netherfield, he has big dark eyes and curly dark hair, also four legs and a tail. He is Henry, Mr. Darcy's 4 month old Border Collie.
Mr. Darcy is less pleased with the acquaintance and does everything in his power to separate his dog and this country lass. He seems to go out of his way to be extra pompous, extra haughty and extra spiteful. He accuses her of using his dog to attract his attentions. Slowly but surely the two humans in this love triangle develop feeling for one another.
So what's not to love. These are complaints I will hide behind a spoiler tag.
This is a short book so there really isn't much character development beyond Darcy and Lizzy. There aren't very many speaking roles beyond Darcy and Lizzy.
Mr. Darcy is less pleased with the acquaintance and does everything in his power to separate his dog and this country lass. He seems to go out of his way to be extra pompous, extra haughty and extra spiteful. He accuses her of using his dog to attract his attentions. Slowly but surely the two humans in this love triangle develop feeling for one another.
So what's not to love. These are complaints I will hide behind a spoiler tag.
This is a short book so there really isn't much character development beyond Darcy and Lizzy. There aren't very many speaking roles beyond Darcy and Lizzy.
February 22, 2019
A mischievous puppy becomes the matchmaker for two people set on divergent paths in this quick, low-angst P&P variation novella.
Darcy makes his famous cringe-worthy pronouncement at the Meryton Assembly and earns Elizabeth Bennet's loathing because he insulted her looks and refused to dance. But, then she gets to see a different side of him when he interacts with his cute puppy and demonstrates concern and care each time Henry gets free and races straight to Longbourn and Elizabeth.
It's a novella so the story moves through the elements swiftly. There is a dual story element with a novel Elizabeth is reading parallels real life for her. I confess to being only moderately diverted by the novel story and preferring the interactions of Darcy, Elizabeth and cuddly Henry. The story is built around the old adage about animals discerning a person's character. I adore stories with animals getting prime character roles so it was fun with Henry as the matchmaker and seeing the development in Darcy and Elizabeth's friendship and beginnings of love.
Adorable story that Austen and dog lovers can relish.
Darcy makes his famous cringe-worthy pronouncement at the Meryton Assembly and earns Elizabeth Bennet's loathing because he insulted her looks and refused to dance. But, then she gets to see a different side of him when he interacts with his cute puppy and demonstrates concern and care each time Henry gets free and races straight to Longbourn and Elizabeth.
It's a novella so the story moves through the elements swiftly. There is a dual story element with a novel Elizabeth is reading parallels real life for her. I confess to being only moderately diverted by the novel story and preferring the interactions of Darcy, Elizabeth and cuddly Henry. The story is built around the old adage about animals discerning a person's character. I adore stories with animals getting prime character roles so it was fun with Henry as the matchmaker and seeing the development in Darcy and Elizabeth's friendship and beginnings of love.
Adorable story that Austen and dog lovers can relish.
December 23, 2018
Thank you Christie Capps for making me laugh... I really needed it.
Although this is not a Christmas themed story, it is a perfect read to set you in that kind of mood. Warm, funny, romantic and brilliantly well written.
The adorable puppy Henry had a discerning mind when approaching humans, why did he not shun his rude and haughty master, Mr Darcy?
Taking an instant liking to Elizabeth, the puppy made a run for Longbourn every morning and his master was forced to fetch him out of Elizabeth's arms just as frequently...
Mr Darcy did not aim to please though and his insults towards Elizabeth was absolutely fabulous!
Loved how their relationship developed after the disastrous first encounter, it was utterly romantic.
Heartily recommend this book!
Although this is not a Christmas themed story, it is a perfect read to set you in that kind of mood. Warm, funny, romantic and brilliantly well written.
The adorable puppy Henry had a discerning mind when approaching humans, why did he not shun his rude and haughty master, Mr Darcy?
Taking an instant liking to Elizabeth, the puppy made a run for Longbourn every morning and his master was forced to fetch him out of Elizabeth's arms just as frequently...
Mr Darcy did not aim to please though and his insults towards Elizabeth was absolutely fabulous!
Loved how their relationship developed after the disastrous first encounter, it was utterly romantic.
Heartily recommend this book!
December 24, 2018
“The love of a dog is a pure thing. He gives you a trust which is total. You must not betray it.” –Michel Houellebecq
There is something about a dog story. This was short, sweet, clean and a pleasure to read. I read it in one sitting as I CNPID [could-not-put-it-down]. It was adorable, simply adorable and brought back memories from my childhood of my own black and white dog. My dog was a cocker spaniel and not a collie. Perhaps, if he had been a collie, he would have kept my four-year-old self from playing in the road.
Darcy: “You can usually tell that a man is good if he has a dog who loves him.” -W. Bruce Cameron, A Dog’s Journey
Darcy was at his best… arrogant, proud and haughty. Our story opened the day after the Assembly with Elizabeth hiding in her favorite place with a book when she encountered an adorable puppy. She soon discovered the master of that puppy was none other than Mr. Darcy, who had insulted her the night before. Oh, dear. Darcy had a lot of ground to recover and his dog was willing to lead the charge. I loved watching the Darcy demeanor melt away as he watched his dog love on this strange country miss.
Elizabeth: “Plus je vois le homes, plus j’admire les chines” (The more I see of men, the more I admire dogs).” –Madame Roland
Elizabeth Bennet loved two things, reading her Gothic novel and an adorable border collie named Henry. If she could just get over her dislike of his owner. It seemed that Mr. Darcy could not keep from insulting her at every turn and she soon began to dread his company. However, things started to change when the Bennet sisters walked into Meryton and met a gentleman who intended to join the militia. As if sensing trouble, Henry came barreling into town and was not best pleased to make the acquaintance and took a protective stance between the stranger and Elizabeth. It was very evident the gentleman was shocked to learn Darcy was in town but was more intrigued to learn that the dog belonged to Darcy. Thanks, Lydia. Once again you speak foolishness and don’t know when to be quiet.
Wickham: “If a dog will not come to you after having looked you in the face, you should go home and examine your conscience.” –Woodrow Wilson
I did not think Wickham could go any lower in my estimation but he did. This was truly a despicable man. Even as a child, Wickham’s cruelty to animals was evident.
I did question whether Wickham actually joined the militia or not. Based on his comments when he found out Darcy was in town, I am thinking that he did not. Also, nothing was said about him being AWOL, nor was there any reference to using the military when looking for him.
“Why does watching a dog be a dog fill one with happiness? –Jonathan Safran Foer
Revised post: 12-24-18
There is something about a dog story. This was short, sweet, clean and a pleasure to read. I read it in one sitting as I CNPID [could-not-put-it-down]. It was adorable, simply adorable and brought back memories from my childhood of my own black and white dog. My dog was a cocker spaniel and not a collie. Perhaps, if he had been a collie, he would have kept my four-year-old self from playing in the road.
Darcy: “You can usually tell that a man is good if he has a dog who loves him.” -W. Bruce Cameron, A Dog’s Journey
Darcy was at his best… arrogant, proud and haughty. Our story opened the day after the Assembly with Elizabeth hiding in her favorite place with a book when she encountered an adorable puppy. She soon discovered the master of that puppy was none other than Mr. Darcy, who had insulted her the night before. Oh, dear. Darcy had a lot of ground to recover and his dog was willing to lead the charge. I loved watching the Darcy demeanor melt away as he watched his dog love on this strange country miss.
Elizabeth: “Plus je vois le homes, plus j’admire les chines” (The more I see of men, the more I admire dogs).” –Madame Roland
Elizabeth Bennet loved two things, reading her Gothic novel and an adorable border collie named Henry. If she could just get over her dislike of his owner. It seemed that Mr. Darcy could not keep from insulting her at every turn and she soon began to dread his company. However, things started to change when the Bennet sisters walked into Meryton and met a gentleman who intended to join the militia. As if sensing trouble, Henry came barreling into town and was not best pleased to make the acquaintance and took a protective stance between the stranger and Elizabeth. It was very evident the gentleman was shocked to learn Darcy was in town but was more intrigued to learn that the dog belonged to Darcy. Thanks, Lydia. Once again you speak foolishness and don’t know when to be quiet.
Wickham: “If a dog will not come to you after having looked you in the face, you should go home and examine your conscience.” –Woodrow Wilson
I did not think Wickham could go any lower in my estimation but he did. This was truly a despicable man. Even as a child, Wickham’s cruelty to animals was evident.
I did question whether Wickham actually joined the militia or not. Based on his comments when he found out Darcy was in town, I am thinking that he did not. Also, nothing was said about him being AWOL, nor was there any reference to using the military when looking for him.
“Why does watching a dog be a dog fill one with happiness? –Jonathan Safran Foer
Revised post: 12-24-18
December 26, 2018
This story has a dog herding two people together. There are moments when it becomes a rom-com! I especially liked how this author wove the tale from a book Elizabeth has borrowed from her aunt to resemble parts of Elizabeth's own life...well, in so much as Elizabeth finally comes to realize that the behavior of the Lord in the book is to protect the lady he loves. She then makes comparisons with Mr. Darcy.
Observing Mr. Darcy's relationship with his dog tells Elizabeth that this man is not so cold after all. If he can care for a dog in that manner then he must have some good in him. Splatters of mud and wet fur don't put him off. However, Darcy cannot seem to keep Henry corralled at Netherfield. Daily the dog escapes and heads out to find Elizabeth. Their first meetings as Darcy seeks Henry are brief and with few words. However events lead to longer exchanges and they begin to learn about each other.
You will be touched and even outraged as you read the history of Darcy's love for his pets. Yes, that old childhood friend found another way to torture Fitzwilliam.
This short story was perfect for a busy holiday.
Observing Mr. Darcy's relationship with his dog tells Elizabeth that this man is not so cold after all. If he can care for a dog in that manner then he must have some good in him. Splatters of mud and wet fur don't put him off. However, Darcy cannot seem to keep Henry corralled at Netherfield. Daily the dog escapes and heads out to find Elizabeth. Their first meetings as Darcy seeks Henry are brief and with few words. However events lead to longer exchanges and they begin to learn about each other.
You will be touched and even outraged as you read the history of Darcy's love for his pets. Yes, that old childhood friend found another way to torture Fitzwilliam.
This short story was perfect for a busy holiday.
October 23, 2024
Happiness is a warm puppy. ~ Charles M. Schulz
Here we have a (mostly) happy story starring a warm puppy.
Elizabeth falls in love during her morning walk: warm brown eyes; dark curly hair; bright smile – how could she not be in love?
Imagine her dismay when she learns the collie pup belongs to the detested Mr. Darcy!
Dogs' lives are too short. Their only fault, really. ~ Agnes Sligh Turnbull
I admit it: I’m a dog lover, having loved a number of dogs through the years. And I loved this heartwarming story of “a boy and his dog” with one reservation.
The dog in question is a sheep dog – one developed in Scotland and carrying hundreds of years of herding instinct. Even today, the descendants of this type of dog look for “herding opportunities” – often herding children or other pets if they don’t have another job. Most people who have happy Border Collies have found occupations for them – chasing Frisbies, playing fly ball, becoming a jogging partner, etc. These dogs need activity and purpose.
A sheep dog without a job can quickly become destructive. If that dog is kept in the country and a flock of sheep is nearby, the dog may begin herding them without authorization, sometimes running them to death. I don’t like to believe that Darcy would keep such a dog as a pet and risk the dog getting into trouble. Even as a pup, Henry is an escape artist and travels several miles daily to meet Elizabeth. There is some potential for disaster in Henry’s future – and through no fault of his own. Henry does respond to beginning herding commands, so I hope Darcy has plans to let him fulfill his purpose and happily herd sheep under guidance.
Great Story – Loved It! But I would have felt easier if the puppy had been a setter or terrier.
I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive. ~ Gilda Radner
Here we have a (mostly) happy story starring a warm puppy.
Elizabeth falls in love during her morning walk: warm brown eyes; dark curly hair; bright smile – how could she not be in love?
Imagine her dismay when she learns the collie pup belongs to the detested Mr. Darcy!
Dogs' lives are too short. Their only fault, really. ~ Agnes Sligh Turnbull
I admit it: I’m a dog lover, having loved a number of dogs through the years. And I loved this heartwarming story of “a boy and his dog” with one reservation.
The dog in question is a sheep dog – one developed in Scotland and carrying hundreds of years of herding instinct. Even today, the descendants of this type of dog look for “herding opportunities” – often herding children or other pets if they don’t have another job. Most people who have happy Border Collies have found occupations for them – chasing Frisbies, playing fly ball, becoming a jogging partner, etc. These dogs need activity and purpose.
A sheep dog without a job can quickly become destructive. If that dog is kept in the country and a flock of sheep is nearby, the dog may begin herding them without authorization, sometimes running them to death. I don’t like to believe that Darcy would keep such a dog as a pet and risk the dog getting into trouble. Even as a pup, Henry is an escape artist and travels several miles daily to meet Elizabeth. There is some potential for disaster in Henry’s future – and through no fault of his own. Henry does respond to beginning herding commands, so I hope Darcy has plans to let him fulfill his purpose and happily herd sheep under guidance.
Great Story – Loved It! But I would have felt easier if the puppy had been a setter or terrier.
I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive. ~ Gilda Radner
December 23, 2018
A Fun Read
This was another enjoyable light read from Christie Capps. I loved Henry, all humans should be as discerning as Henry.
This was another enjoyable light read from Christie Capps. I loved Henry, all humans should be as discerning as Henry.
August 13, 2019
Gotta love a collie puppy
Henry, the puppy, has adventures that always seem to include Lizzy, who doesn’t like Darcy, and Darcy, who is prideful and arrogant.
But will Henry lead them to true love?
A kind of sappy but thoroughly enjoyable story. The story was just the right length.
I recommend this book.
Henry, the puppy, has adventures that always seem to include Lizzy, who doesn’t like Darcy, and Darcy, who is prideful and arrogant.
But will Henry lead them to true love?
A kind of sappy but thoroughly enjoyable story. The story was just the right length.
I recommend this book.
December 24, 2018
Who doesn't love a puppy? But when that puppy is a Border Collie, one of the most intelligent dog breeds, and he is owned by the ever taciturn Mr. Darcy, you know you are in for a bit of mischief, mayhem and love!
"This animal was everything good about the world." (quote from the book)
Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth Bennet do not stand a chance of ignoring each other or staying away from each with Henry on the loose. Henry's innate herding skills come to the fore when he 'works' to bring these two together. But the 'ever charming' Mr. Wickham shows his true colours in this novella and the picture isn't pretty.
This story may be short, but it certainly packs a punch and brings back some very fond memories for me...a Border Collie named 'Jack'.
December 28, 2018
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars
A lovely short novella about a border collie puppy named Henry. Henry is enjoying the land between Netherfield and Longbourn where he meets Elizabeth one morning. Henry belongs to Darcy. Henry escapes daily to meet Elizabeth with Darcy on the hunt for his dog daily. Can a border collie herd Darcy and Elizabeth into love? Read it to find out.
A lovely short novella about a border collie puppy named Henry. Henry is enjoying the land between Netherfield and Longbourn where he meets Elizabeth one morning. Henry belongs to Darcy. Henry escapes daily to meet Elizabeth with Darcy on the hunt for his dog daily. Can a border collie herd Darcy and Elizabeth into love? Read it to find out.
December 22, 2018
Like all the Christie Capps novellas, this one was a sweet morsel of delight. Ms Capps demonstrates a love for her characters and keeps them true to form, even in unique situations and short stories.
This story gives us two powerful catalysts to help Elizabeth overcome her initial disapproval of Darcy. One is sweet, provoking, and unpredictable. The other has muddy paws!
Enjoy this sweet story with your hot cocoa this Christmas!
This story gives us two powerful catalysts to help Elizabeth overcome her initial disapproval of Darcy. One is sweet, provoking, and unpredictable. The other has muddy paws!
Enjoy this sweet story with your hot cocoa this Christmas!
July 28, 2021
ODC fall in love with the help of an adorable dog.
Mr Bennet is a little more on that ball in this version.
Vile Wickham uses the poor pooch to get his revenge instead of Georgiana.
Mr Bennet is a little more on that ball in this version.
Vile Wickham uses the poor pooch to get his revenge instead of Georgiana.
January 13, 2019
3 1/2 stars but a bump In Stars bc... doggyyy.
One of my favorite JAFF writers, Christie Capps. The description says “Christie Capps is the pen name of a best-selling author J Dawn King who, because of increasing demands on her time, has fewer and fewer hours to read. She doubts she is the only one with these circumstances. Therefore, her Christie Capps stories will all be approximately 100 pages of sweet romance and will be priced less than one cup of flavored coffee from your local barista.”
And it’s spot on. Available on kindle unlimited, but even so an inexpensive eread.
This particular bit of fluff is everything it ought to be. I couldn’t help but grin as Elizabeth scoffed love at first sight but then was corrected, you’ll chuckle too. That part actually is what bumped this up to a higher rating. Dogs and P&P? What more could one ask for? Only for it to be clean unlike a different doggy p&p I’ve read in the past, ha. Just enough humor, just enough doggy time, just enough romantic fantasy, perfect with a cup of tea and around An hour to spare from start to finish.
And of course the baby knocked my empty tea cup over whilst writing this review... my favorite Jane Austen mug from The Jane Austen Centre in England 😭 well at least the mugs last book it accompanied was a Jane Austeny tribute, a bit fitting.
Edit to add:
Ok, I forgot to add this thought due to cup breaking distractions... but it was not keeping with the times to have Elizabeth joining the men folk to romp around the country on horseback. Especially in The middle of the night. It made for a dash of adventure in this story though.
One of my favorite JAFF writers, Christie Capps. The description says “Christie Capps is the pen name of a best-selling author J Dawn King who, because of increasing demands on her time, has fewer and fewer hours to read. She doubts she is the only one with these circumstances. Therefore, her Christie Capps stories will all be approximately 100 pages of sweet romance and will be priced less than one cup of flavored coffee from your local barista.”
And it’s spot on. Available on kindle unlimited, but even so an inexpensive eread.
This particular bit of fluff is everything it ought to be. I couldn’t help but grin as Elizabeth scoffed love at first sight but then was corrected, you’ll chuckle too. That part actually is what bumped this up to a higher rating. Dogs and P&P? What more could one ask for? Only for it to be clean unlike a different doggy p&p I’ve read in the past, ha. Just enough humor, just enough doggy time, just enough romantic fantasy, perfect with a cup of tea and around An hour to spare from start to finish.
And of course the baby knocked my empty tea cup over whilst writing this review... my favorite Jane Austen mug from The Jane Austen Centre in England 😭 well at least the mugs last book it accompanied was a Jane Austeny tribute, a bit fitting.
Edit to add:
Ok, I forgot to add this thought due to cup breaking distractions... but it was not keeping with the times to have Elizabeth joining the men folk to romp around the country on horseback. Especially in The middle of the night. It made for a dash of adventure in this story though.
April 15, 2024
Sweet
Reviewed in Canada on January 6, 2019
A very sweet quick read, especially for dog lovers. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The story captures from the start and flows nicely.
April 15, 2024 - Audiobook
Sad to say, I didn't enjoy the narrator. She was over the top on the dialogue and screeched or growled through most of it.
Reviewed in Canada on January 6, 2019
A very sweet quick read, especially for dog lovers. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The story captures from the start and flows nicely.
April 15, 2024 - Audiobook
Sad to say, I didn't enjoy the narrator. She was over the top on the dialogue and screeched or growled through most of it.
January 10, 2019
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, a delightful herding dog brings our dear couple from barely tolerable to happily ever after. All that intertwined with excerpts from a romance Elizabeth is reading. It makes this story almost two in one. I enjoyed every word.
November 4, 2024
My third read. This is one of the sweetest novella. Stories with dogs and children are the sweetest and engaging. Elizabeth reminded me of Catherine Morland (of Northanger Abbey) walking around with her novel and mixing imagination with reality. Short and sweet.
March 13, 2022
What If A Sweet Puppy Brought Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy To Heel?
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Author
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation Novella
THE PREMISE: While she isn’t tolerable enough to attract Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth earns the happy affection and devotion of his three-month-old Scottish sheepdog, Henry. Henry is constantly seeking Elizabeth out, and since Elizabeth is forced to spend more time with the arrogant and insulting Mr. Darcy she cannot help but wonder at her opinions of Henry’s aloof and arrogant master…
MY THOUGHTS:
Yes. Mr. Darcy with a cute dog? Yes. Always. Yes. Like Elizabeth Bennet, I immediately fell in love with Henry’s irrepressible playfulness and puppy antics (lol. those brakes! 😆). And unlike Elizabeth Bennet I immediately warmed to Mr. Darcy for being the owner of such a loving and affable creature.
Henry is the heart of this story and I give you fair warning, readers, he will steal your heart. I loved how Henry would mischievously runaway to Elizabeth and his instinctive “herding” behavior. It was touching to learn that both Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth are dog-lovers and had bonded closely with dogs in their past. In addition, I love how Henry is constantly brought these two together and how Elizabeth and Darcy shared some more personal and candid conversations with each other. Side note: I also enjoyed the novel Elizabeth was reading – a period Scottish romance by the name of The Thorn and the Rose – and all the parallels in that story and Elizabeth’s life. It was also quite funny how she kept getting interrupted from her reading!
With any Christie Capps novella I’ve come to expect the pacing and action of the story to move quickly. These are lighthearted and quick reads and I don’t mind the their briskness. However, I do sometimes still feel like some conversations between characters are a little too forthcoming and blunt for the norms of the polite and restrained Regency era manners, at least to me. In addition, Wickham’s actions malicious scheme felt a little abruptly hatched and executed, and I wouldn’t have minded seeing more of a set-up for his machinations.
Henry – both the puppy and novella – are completely endearing and charming! I thoroughly enjoyed this tale (and all the adorable tail wagging within its pages) and would love to see more adventures of Henry, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy together!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Author
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation Novella
THE PREMISE: While she isn’t tolerable enough to attract Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth earns the happy affection and devotion of his three-month-old Scottish sheepdog, Henry. Henry is constantly seeking Elizabeth out, and since Elizabeth is forced to spend more time with the arrogant and insulting Mr. Darcy she cannot help but wonder at her opinions of Henry’s aloof and arrogant master…
MY THOUGHTS:
Yes. Mr. Darcy with a cute dog? Yes. Always. Yes. Like Elizabeth Bennet, I immediately fell in love with Henry’s irrepressible playfulness and puppy antics (lol. those brakes! 😆). And unlike Elizabeth Bennet I immediately warmed to Mr. Darcy for being the owner of such a loving and affable creature.
Henry is the heart of this story and I give you fair warning, readers, he will steal your heart. I loved how Henry would mischievously runaway to Elizabeth and his instinctive “herding” behavior. It was touching to learn that both Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth are dog-lovers and had bonded closely with dogs in their past. In addition, I love how Henry is constantly brought these two together and how Elizabeth and Darcy shared some more personal and candid conversations with each other. Side note: I also enjoyed the novel Elizabeth was reading – a period Scottish romance by the name of The Thorn and the Rose – and all the parallels in that story and Elizabeth’s life. It was also quite funny how she kept getting interrupted from her reading!
With any Christie Capps novella I’ve come to expect the pacing and action of the story to move quickly. These are lighthearted and quick reads and I don’t mind the their briskness. However, I do sometimes still feel like some conversations between characters are a little too forthcoming and blunt for the norms of the polite and restrained Regency era manners, at least to me. In addition, Wickham’s actions malicious scheme felt a little abruptly hatched and executed, and I wouldn’t have minded seeing more of a set-up for his machinations.
Henry – both the puppy and novella – are completely endearing and charming! I thoroughly enjoyed this tale (and all the adorable tail wagging within its pages) and would love to see more adventures of Henry, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy together!
Austenesque Reviews
May 14, 2022
Darcy is more than excessively rude and insulting when he plainly states that he thinks Elizabeth is a fortune hunter out to catch him, but he's got a great dog that makes up for his deficiencies. The reasoning is, if the puppy likes him, he can't be all bad. Mind you, the puppy doesn't like Wickham. That gentleman is worse than usual, adding cruelty to animals into his repertoire of wickedness. I liked the parallels between Darcy and the book Elizabeth was reading, and that Mr. Bennet was worried about proprieties for once in his life.
In one scene Darcy worries whether Wickham knows that Henry is his dog and Elizabeth tells him she doesn't know although she was just there when Lydia and Kitty told him that Henry is Darcy's dog and caused him to run away.
I own this as part of a box set of short novellas.
In one scene Darcy worries whether Wickham knows that Henry is his dog and Elizabeth tells him she doesn't know although she was just there when Lydia and Kitty told him that Henry is Darcy's dog and caused him to run away.
I own this as part of a box set of short novellas.
December 17, 2022
It was one of the more ridiculous books I’ve ever read (listened to). However, it was short, cute, & served it’s purpose of occupying my long drive so I can now return to the book I was reading that didn’t have an audiobook.
Honestly, I don’t think the audible helped with said ridiculousness. I wouldn’t say the narrator was bad per se, but the subject matter was already silly to begin with & the narrator didn’t help matters. I mean really- why did Kitty have a lisp & it was just too over affected for me.
Honestly, I don’t think the audible helped with said ridiculousness. I wouldn’t say the narrator was bad per se, but the subject matter was already silly to begin with & the narrator didn’t help matters. I mean really- why did Kitty have a lisp & it was just too over affected for me.
December 29, 2018
Cute
A totally enjoyable story that is perfect if you don't have a lot of time and yet escape into a book.
A totally enjoyable story that is perfect if you don't have a lot of time and yet escape into a book.
January 6, 2019
This is a very cute, well written, short read! The first few pages made me laugh in surprise of who Miss Elizabeth falls in love with at first glance! Worth a read!
February 16, 2019
Very cute sweet pride and Prejudice alternative. You will fall in love with Henry. Very obstinate little puppy and to smart for his own good.
Easy short read and diverting
Easy short read and diverting
January 18, 2019
Adorable
What could be sweeter than a handsome man with an adorable puppy? Add Elizabeth in "puppy love" to the mix and something wonderful has to happen.
I love Christie Capps. Here is a talented author with a dry sense of humor that has you smiling from start to finish. The main characters are revealed with all their ridiculous imperfections in such a way that makes their foibles endearing rather than annoying. Darcy gives the most pompous and conceited speech in the beginning of the story, and Elizabeth reveals her implacable resentment against him in the narrative of her thoughts. It looks hopeless until the precocious puppy pushes them into one forced encounter after another. The result is the realization on both sides that things are not always as they seem at first glance. The way they each care deeply for the puppy's welfare is the reason for their eventual change of heart. Wickham appears as the evil villain who is mean to animals but gets his due punishment.
This is a lovely, feel-good story that takes very little time to read, but has a lot of heart. Highly recommend it.
What could be sweeter than a handsome man with an adorable puppy? Add Elizabeth in "puppy love" to the mix and something wonderful has to happen.
I love Christie Capps. Here is a talented author with a dry sense of humor that has you smiling from start to finish. The main characters are revealed with all their ridiculous imperfections in such a way that makes their foibles endearing rather than annoying. Darcy gives the most pompous and conceited speech in the beginning of the story, and Elizabeth reveals her implacable resentment against him in the narrative of her thoughts. It looks hopeless until the precocious puppy pushes them into one forced encounter after another. The result is the realization on both sides that things are not always as they seem at first glance. The way they each care deeply for the puppy's welfare is the reason for their eventual change of heart. Wickham appears as the evil villain who is mean to animals but gets his due punishment.
This is a lovely, feel-good story that takes very little time to read, but has a lot of heart. Highly recommend it.
July 14, 2019
Avid Reader
This book has been on my Kindle for sometime as one of my Kindle unlimited choices. I was not disappointed. From the opening of the book, Elizabeth falls in love with Henry, Mr.Darcy 's border collie. After reading about this dog, I want a border collie! Elizabeth deftly put Darcy in his place when he accused her of using the dog 🐕 to attract his attention. By the time she was done telling him that he was not only not a gentleman, but he was rude, crude, and snobbish, Darcy was left speechless! As Henry continued to go to Longbourn early in the morning, Elizabeth would simply return Henry without saying one word to him. Darcy was humiliated and humbled because he realized that he was the last man in the world 🌎 that she wanted anything to do with. Once Henry is endangered, Darcy, Elizabeth, Mr. Bennet, Bingley, and most of the tenants from three estates ride out to locate Henry. Henry and Wickham bring Darcy and Elizabeth together.
This book has been on my Kindle for sometime as one of my Kindle unlimited choices. I was not disappointed. From the opening of the book, Elizabeth falls in love with Henry, Mr.Darcy 's border collie. After reading about this dog, I want a border collie! Elizabeth deftly put Darcy in his place when he accused her of using the dog 🐕 to attract his attention. By the time she was done telling him that he was not only not a gentleman, but he was rude, crude, and snobbish, Darcy was left speechless! As Henry continued to go to Longbourn early in the morning, Elizabeth would simply return Henry without saying one word to him. Darcy was humiliated and humbled because he realized that he was the last man in the world 🌎 that she wanted anything to do with. Once Henry is endangered, Darcy, Elizabeth, Mr. Bennet, Bingley, and most of the tenants from three estates ride out to locate Henry. Henry and Wickham bring Darcy and Elizabeth together.
December 14, 2023
3,5 stars rounded up to 4 stars.
Cute novella with Henry the puppy playing a part. He is Mr. Darcy puppy and a great reader of character. Thus he loves Elizabeth and hates Mr. Wickham ;-) He is difficult to keep in one place and quite the break out king. When free he keeps looking for Elizabeth.
I find that Mr Darcy is quite horrid in the beginning of the story even worse than in the original... So I think Elizabeth forgave him a bit fast. The entire story is taken place in Hertfortshire ending in late November.
I listened to the audiobook, the narrator Stevie Zimmerman is great as ever.
Cute novella with Henry the puppy playing a part. He is Mr. Darcy puppy and a great reader of character. Thus he loves Elizabeth and hates Mr. Wickham ;-) He is difficult to keep in one place and quite the break out king. When free he keeps looking for Elizabeth.
I find that Mr Darcy is quite horrid in the beginning of the story even worse than in the original... So I think Elizabeth forgave him a bit fast. The entire story is taken place in Hertfortshire ending in late November.
I listened to the audiobook, the narrator Stevie Zimmerman is great as ever.
February 6, 2025
Another cute little novella and this one with an adorable puppy. He seems to be a matchmaking puppy. Since Darcy has already insulted Elizabeth at the ball, their meeting now because of Henry the puppy does not go well. But Henry has decided he loves Elizabeth so there are many more opportunities for them to spend a little time together. It was an enjoyable story.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Stevie Zimmerman who is always fabulous. The whole thing is just over 2 hours so it was perfect for an evening's entertainment. Clean, sweet and a quick read.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Stevie Zimmerman who is always fabulous. The whole thing is just over 2 hours so it was perfect for an evening's entertainment. Clean, sweet and a quick read.
March 2, 2019
Quick, fun read
This book has been on my TBR list for a while and I knew it was time to read when I got the notice it would be removed from KU.
The story was absolutely enjoyable and while it focuses on Darcy and Elizabeth, a mischievous border collie - Henry - plays a starring role. The story moves quickly and includes an abbreviated version of the main elements of Pride and Prejudice with Henry helping move to a HEA.
This book has been on my TBR list for a while and I knew it was time to read when I got the notice it would be removed from KU.
The story was absolutely enjoyable and while it focuses on Darcy and Elizabeth, a mischievous border collie - Henry - plays a starring role. The story moves quickly and includes an abbreviated version of the main elements of Pride and Prejudice with Henry helping move to a HEA.
March 1, 2023
A scant 3*
This one was not for me I'm afraid. It is well edited and is well structured for a novella with a pared down list of characters and a focussed time period without extraneous details.
Unfortunately I found it far too simplistic. It also seemed as if the author remembered narrative from the original and added it in without much thought as to the relevance to the plot. Hence there were far too many mood swings among the characters.
This one was not for me I'm afraid. It is well edited and is well structured for a novella with a pared down list of characters and a focussed time period without extraneous details.
Unfortunately I found it far too simplistic. It also seemed as if the author remembered narrative from the original and added it in without much thought as to the relevance to the plot. Hence there were far too many mood swings among the characters.
January 28, 2019
Not for me.
While this book was highly rated, I bought it thinking it was a sure thing. Sadly that is not what I found. I did not like this Darcy or the strange novel reading Elizabeth. There was no passion between the two of them, just a muddy ornery dog. Sorry but to me, it just didn't amount to much of a romance.
While this book was highly rated, I bought it thinking it was a sure thing. Sadly that is not what I found. I did not like this Darcy or the strange novel reading Elizabeth. There was no passion between the two of them, just a muddy ornery dog. Sorry but to me, it just didn't amount to much of a romance.
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