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An Austen Ensemble #1
A Lively Companion: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
When Lizzy Bennet reluctantly agrees to become Anne de Bourgh's companion on a short trip to Tunbridge Wells, she stumbles feet first into a summer of misunderstandings, revelations, and unexpected proposals.
Mr. Darcy, feeling foolish that he came to the brink of a proposal due to an arbitrary deadline, decides to accept his aunt's request to accompany them--hoping that his decision regarding Elizabeth will make itself plain.
While Anne spends her morning dutifully drinking the famed waters of Tunbridge Wells, Lizzy is pulled further into the Darcy and de Bourgh family circle. From Darcy's cousin, Lady Honoria, to his sister, Georgiana, Lizzy can't help feeling that this is a family she would like, except for Mr. Darcy!
Which only makes it all the more painful when she must resolutely reject the proud head of the family...
Mr. Darcy, feeling foolish that he came to the brink of a proposal due to an arbitrary deadline, decides to accept his aunt's request to accompany them--hoping that his decision regarding Elizabeth will make itself plain.
While Anne spends her morning dutifully drinking the famed waters of Tunbridge Wells, Lizzy is pulled further into the Darcy and de Bourgh family circle. From Darcy's cousin, Lady Honoria, to his sister, Georgiana, Lizzy can't help feeling that this is a family she would like, except for Mr. Darcy!
Which only makes it all the more painful when she must resolutely reject the proud head of the family...
267 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 17, 2019
About the author
Corrie Garrett
37 books59 followersHello! I'm Corrie Garrett, indie author of the Austen Ensemble trilogy and other romance novels. I'm currently working on a story about the characters of Mansfield Park, as well as an historical fantasy in the Byzantine Empire.
I love to read as well as write - mainly young adult (contemporary, dystopian, adventure, science fiction), romance (Christian, suspense, historical), science fiction, and urban fantasy.
Ask a question, make a recommendation, or just say hello - and thanks for stopping by!
I love to read as well as write - mainly young adult (contemporary, dystopian, adventure, science fiction), romance (Christian, suspense, historical), science fiction, and urban fantasy.
Ask a question, make a recommendation, or just say hello - and thanks for stopping by!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
January 6, 2020
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
Elizabeth's courage always rises at every attempt to intimidate her, as all Pride and Prejudice fans are aware. When she reluctantly becomes Anne de Bourgh's companion in Mrs. Jenkinson's absence (never expecting that her father would allow it), she gets lots of opportunities to test her mettle. Lady Catherine is certainly an intimidating employer, and it's fun to read Elizabeth's struggle to fulfill her assigned role while staying true to herself.
It's not only Lady C. that Elizabeth has to contend with. Anne is impervious to her charm - even seems resentful, no matter how much Elizabeth tries to please her. And Mr. Darcy is confusing. She expects that her current position in service would cause him to look down on her even more than he did previously, but he's actually more engaging in company with her than he was in Hertfordshire.
The story begins in Kent, and Darcy is contemplating proposing marriage to Elizabeth Bennet but hasn't come to that point yet. Once he learns she will be working for his aunt, he welcomes the extra time this gives him to spend with her, recognizing that his lady love doesn't REALLY know him. So, how will things work out when he finally does approach her and suggest a courtship?
It's a clever premise filled with potential, and Ms. Garrett really works it well. I love when Caroline Bingley gets the Lady C. treatment - how will SHE hold up under the Inquisition? The plot leads to a crowded climactic scene; it's not just the Bingleys who turn up unexpectedly.
While this sets the table for Book 2, it absolutely works as a stand-alone -- everything here resolves with no cliffhanger. The writing flows beautifully, and the characters are believable extensions of Jane Austen's. Although I doubt Lady C. would deign to receive or to even acknowledge the Bingleys since they are not landed gentry, that would eliminate a very entertaining part of the story.
Content is clean. I definitely recommend it!
Elizabeth's courage always rises at every attempt to intimidate her, as all Pride and Prejudice fans are aware. When she reluctantly becomes Anne de Bourgh's companion in Mrs. Jenkinson's absence (never expecting that her father would allow it), she gets lots of opportunities to test her mettle. Lady Catherine is certainly an intimidating employer, and it's fun to read Elizabeth's struggle to fulfill her assigned role while staying true to herself.
It's not only Lady C. that Elizabeth has to contend with. Anne is impervious to her charm - even seems resentful, no matter how much Elizabeth tries to please her. And Mr. Darcy is confusing. She expects that her current position in service would cause him to look down on her even more than he did previously, but he's actually more engaging in company with her than he was in Hertfordshire.
The story begins in Kent, and Darcy is contemplating proposing marriage to Elizabeth Bennet but hasn't come to that point yet. Once he learns she will be working for his aunt, he welcomes the extra time this gives him to spend with her, recognizing that his lady love doesn't REALLY know him. So, how will things work out when he finally does approach her and suggest a courtship?
It's a clever premise filled with potential, and Ms. Garrett really works it well. I love when Caroline Bingley gets the Lady C. treatment - how will SHE hold up under the Inquisition? The plot leads to a crowded climactic scene; it's not just the Bingleys who turn up unexpectedly.
While this sets the table for Book 2, it absolutely works as a stand-alone -- everything here resolves with no cliffhanger. The writing flows beautifully, and the characters are believable extensions of Jane Austen's. Although I doubt Lady C. would deign to receive or to even acknowledge the Bingleys since they are not landed gentry, that would eliminate a very entertaining part of the story.
Content is clean. I definitely recommend it!
December 26, 2019
Society is composed of two great classes — those who have more dinners than appetite, and those who have more appetite than dinners. ~ Sébastien-Roch Nicolas (Chamfort)
“A Lively Companion” is the story of Elizabeth Bennet’s descent from her social class of gentlewoman into the lower social class of “distressed gentlewoman” when she must accept a position as a paid companion.
During Elizabeth’s visit to Hunsford parsonage, Lady Catherine wants Elizabeth to accompany her and her daughter to Tunbridge Wells. To Elizabeth’s shock and dismay, her father insists she accept, at least temporarily.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has been waiting an opportunity to propose marriage to his beloved when he learns she will be spending weeks with his Aunt and Cousin. He agrees to escort the women and remain to conduct a courtship under his Aunt’s nose.
If you have a job without any aggravations, you don't have a job. ~ Malcolm S. Forbes
Elizabeth’s job is not without its aggravations: most especially her unpleasant relationship with her charge, Anne de Bourgh. Anne is in ill-health and makes much of it. Her resentment of Elizabeth is palpable.
Quote from the book: Elizabeth seemed to think she was better than Anne. That grated. The second daughter of an undistinguished country gentleman, a girl who was now a paid companion ... could she possibly think herself above Anne, the daughter Sir Richard de Bourgh?
Anne also resents her Mother’s interference.
Quote from the book: And then she’d saddled Anne with such a companion! Loud, laughing, grinning Elizabeth Bennet. Lady de Bourgh had even said that Elizabeth, for all her faults, had a great deal of resolution.
The book was well-written, with the exception of incorrect titles, such as Lady de Bourgh instead of Lady Catherine. The story grabbed my attention and held it to the end.
When people go to work, they shouldn't have to leave their hearts at home. ~ Betty Bender
“A Lively Companion” is the story of Elizabeth Bennet’s descent from her social class of gentlewoman into the lower social class of “distressed gentlewoman” when she must accept a position as a paid companion.
During Elizabeth’s visit to Hunsford parsonage, Lady Catherine wants Elizabeth to accompany her and her daughter to Tunbridge Wells. To Elizabeth’s shock and dismay, her father insists she accept, at least temporarily.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has been waiting an opportunity to propose marriage to his beloved when he learns she will be spending weeks with his Aunt and Cousin. He agrees to escort the women and remain to conduct a courtship under his Aunt’s nose.
If you have a job without any aggravations, you don't have a job. ~ Malcolm S. Forbes
Elizabeth’s job is not without its aggravations: most especially her unpleasant relationship with her charge, Anne de Bourgh. Anne is in ill-health and makes much of it. Her resentment of Elizabeth is palpable.
Quote from the book: Elizabeth seemed to think she was better than Anne. That grated. The second daughter of an undistinguished country gentleman, a girl who was now a paid companion ... could she possibly think herself above Anne, the daughter Sir Richard de Bourgh?
Anne also resents her Mother’s interference.
Quote from the book: And then she’d saddled Anne with such a companion! Loud, laughing, grinning Elizabeth Bennet. Lady de Bourgh had even said that Elizabeth, for all her faults, had a great deal of resolution.
The book was well-written, with the exception of incorrect titles, such as Lady de Bourgh instead of Lady Catherine. The story grabbed my attention and held it to the end.
When people go to work, they shouldn't have to leave their hearts at home. ~ Betty Bender
April 16, 2020
This P&P what if wonder what happens if Lady Catherine gets Miss Bennet to stay two months complete. Alas Lizzy isn't a guest, but instead Miss deBough's temporary companion. And not at Rosings but instead at a spa where Anne can take the waters.
But it shan't be just Lizzy & the deBough ladies; Darcy & Col. Fitzwilliam will join them there. Lizzy and Darcy will have a lot of time to get to know one another. Darcy will prematurely propose, Lizzy will reject him but with less vitriol than in canon. And they will be joined by Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley, the Bingleys and eventually the Bennets. There are some new characters too.
The relationship between Lizzy and Anne leaves a lot to be desired and Lady Catherine is at her worst. The situation between Darcy and Lizzy will improve until they realize they are perfect for one another.
Peeves: There aren't a lot of people in JA's P&P who have full names but Sir Lewis deBourgh is one. So why does Lady Catherine call him Richard? Twice?
Was Maria (Mariah) trapped at Hunsford? In canon Lizzy is her ride home but here Lizzy doesn't return to Hunsford.
Long Engagement: Thanks to a lovely book about Regency customs and manners I learned that most Regency weddings were held as soon as the banns were read. Unlike modern times there was no need to send invitations, hire a hall or a band/DJ. Weddings were for immediate family and friends, breakfasts were held at home.
But it shan't be just Lizzy & the deBough ladies; Darcy & Col. Fitzwilliam will join them there. Lizzy and Darcy will have a lot of time to get to know one another. Darcy will prematurely propose, Lizzy will reject him but with less vitriol than in canon. And they will be joined by Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley, the Bingleys and eventually the Bennets. There are some new characters too.
The relationship between Lizzy and Anne leaves a lot to be desired and Lady Catherine is at her worst. The situation between Darcy and Lizzy will improve until they realize they are perfect for one another.
Peeves: There aren't a lot of people in JA's P&P who have full names but Sir Lewis deBourgh is one. So why does Lady Catherine call him Richard? Twice?
Was Maria (Mariah) trapped at Hunsford? In canon Lizzy is her ride home but here Lizzy doesn't return to Hunsford.
Long Engagement: Thanks to a lovely book about Regency customs and manners I learned that most Regency weddings were held as soon as the banns were read. Unlike modern times there was no need to send invitations, hire a hall or a band/DJ. Weddings were for immediate family and friends, breakfasts were held at home.
April 15, 2020
This premise is not a new one except that here Elizabeth becomes a companion to Anne de Bourgh rather than Georgiana Darcy, as other variations have done. (I believe I read one other in which it was the same as this...a companion to Anne.)
Strangely it is Mr. Bennet who insisted that Elizabeth took the employment offer from Lady Catherine. Darcy and the Colonel accompany the party to Tunbridge Wells where they stay in a hotel together. Anne is not happy with Elizabeth as a companion and takes opportunities to let Elizabeth know it. Elizabeth keeps her tongue in her mouth even with the incitement of the rude remarks by Anne.
Darcy has not proposed in Kent as he saw an opportunity to spend more time with Elizabeth and thus both could get to know each other better. However when he asks to court her similar insults still are spoken and Elizabeth again turns him down...not quite as rudely but still he gets the message.
So it is while in company with each other some changes in behavior occur. Darcy does bring Georgiana to stay and thus she and Elizabeth become good friends...even when G. learns that that Elizabeth has turned her brother down.
Bingley later shows up with Caroline and it is amusing to read of Caroline getting "the Lady Catherine set down". Yes, it is all about class and connections...and the same goes for the talk she gives to Elizabeth when Lady C. accuses her of flirting with her nephew.
There is an unexpected event near the end, which adds some more amusement to this tale. Although it is the first of a three book series it does not give us a cliff hanger and can be read as a stand-alone novel. I enjoyed it and recommend it. I will be reading the second one soon.
Strangely it is Mr. Bennet who insisted that Elizabeth took the employment offer from Lady Catherine. Darcy and the Colonel accompany the party to Tunbridge Wells where they stay in a hotel together. Anne is not happy with Elizabeth as a companion and takes opportunities to let Elizabeth know it. Elizabeth keeps her tongue in her mouth even with the incitement of the rude remarks by Anne.
Darcy has not proposed in Kent as he saw an opportunity to spend more time with Elizabeth and thus both could get to know each other better. However when he asks to court her similar insults still are spoken and Elizabeth again turns him down...not quite as rudely but still he gets the message.
So it is while in company with each other some changes in behavior occur. Darcy does bring Georgiana to stay and thus she and Elizabeth become good friends...even when G. learns that that Elizabeth has turned her brother down.
Bingley later shows up with Caroline and it is amusing to read of Caroline getting "the Lady Catherine set down". Yes, it is all about class and connections...and the same goes for the talk she gives to Elizabeth when Lady C. accuses her of flirting with her nephew.
There is an unexpected event near the end, which adds some more amusement to this tale. Although it is the first of a three book series it does not give us a cliff hanger and can be read as a stand-alone novel. I enjoyed it and recommend it. I will be reading the second one soon.
October 15, 2020
2.5 stars
In this reimagining of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Lizzie becomes a paid companion to Anne de Bourgh after visiting Charlotte Collins and Mr. Darcy joins her and his aunt on a trip to a seaside resort.
This was a pleasant Kindle freebie, enjoyable almost more for the pitfalls it avoids than any great plot contrivances. It does not use original quotes in weird places or give dialogue to the wrong people. It doesn't try and recreate iconic scenes just because they must be there. Instead, it tells its own story, kicking off with a "what if..." and following the thought.
I enjoyed the switching POVs between Lizzie and Darcy.
And I would say, overall, I did enjoy the story. But it wasn't anything I'd re-read or necessarily recommend. The plot sputters and survives mostly by introducing a continual stream of characters. Mr. Darcy's self-discovery palls (he didn't behave like a gentleman!) and any attempt to convey social structure falls flat as Lizzie just fails to go along with it. The drama between Lizzie and her Father (which caused her to become a paid companion in the first place) is left unresolved. And of course, the book ends with half the story yet untold, with Lydia still off in Brighton.
I liked it but not enough to find anything more by this author or keep reading.
In this reimagining of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Lizzie becomes a paid companion to Anne de Bourgh after visiting Charlotte Collins and Mr. Darcy joins her and his aunt on a trip to a seaside resort.
This was a pleasant Kindle freebie, enjoyable almost more for the pitfalls it avoids than any great plot contrivances. It does not use original quotes in weird places or give dialogue to the wrong people. It doesn't try and recreate iconic scenes just because they must be there. Instead, it tells its own story, kicking off with a "what if..." and following the thought.
I enjoyed the switching POVs between Lizzie and Darcy.
And I would say, overall, I did enjoy the story. But it wasn't anything I'd re-read or necessarily recommend. The plot sputters and survives mostly by introducing a continual stream of characters. Mr. Darcy's self-discovery palls (he didn't behave like a gentleman!) and any attempt to convey social structure falls flat as Lizzie just fails to go along with it. The drama between Lizzie and her Father (which caused her to become a paid companion in the first place) is left unresolved. And of course, the book ends with half the story yet untold, with Lydia still off in Brighton.
I liked it but not enough to find anything more by this author or keep reading.
January 15, 2021
A really nice variation. I have had a charming time watching Darcy's courtship. If there were flaws, inconsistencies (comparing to the original) I didn't see them. I was simply enjoying myself.
I am hesitating between 3 and 4 stars, because, although I did have a lovely time, I feel already that I am forgetting it. (E.g. Suddenly Mrs. Darcy that I have also read recently I will remember longer.)
In other words, I recommend trying it if you are a fan of P&P variations, but I would have not bought it for a full price.
I am hesitating between 3 and 4 stars, because, although I did have a lovely time, I feel already that I am forgetting it. (E.g. Suddenly Mrs. Darcy that I have also read recently I will remember longer.)
In other words, I recommend trying it if you are a fan of P&P variations, but I would have not bought it for a full price.
February 6, 2022
How I dearly wish this author was not so cheap or not so lazy! It had to be one of the two because the editing was atrocious! 3.5 stars rounded up. Absolutely no effort was made to check for contractions or non-Regency words. It would have taken perhaps a half an hour of searches in Word to find and replace all the contractions used by gentry, but instead, this lazy author (or lazy editor, if she paid for one) eschewed that search and decided the reader wouldn't mind. Well, the reader does mind because each and every one of those contractions knocks them out of the feel of the era!
This review won't have a summary of the story full of spoilers. Instead, it will be a technical review of the key points of the novel that could annoy the reader and make the reader wonder why they found the book annoying when the story was good.
The plot idea was good, but in execution, it was just okay. There were too many anomalies given to the companion character from her role in the Regency. One or two times of getting away with it would be fine, but
This review won't have a summary of the story full of spoilers. Instead, it will be a technical review of the key points of the novel that could annoy the reader and make the reader wonder why they found the book annoying when the story was good.
The plot idea was good, but in execution, it was just okay. There were too many anomalies given to the companion character from her role in the Regency. One or two times of getting away with it would be fine, but
May 30, 2026
Enjoyable beginning to this Austenesque trilogy…
February 15, 2021
The Hunsford proposal is avoided when Elizabeth agrees to be a paid companion to Anne as she and Lady Catherine travel to Tunbridge to take the waters. Hoping to buy some time, Darcy and Col. Fitzwilliam follow. Darcy soon asks to court Lizzy but she refuses. Darcy sticks around and Lizzy’s opinion of him gradually improves. The second proposal comes on the dance floor which felt odd and unrealistic. Then the Bennets and Bingleys show up at the end and as Elizabeth says, “That could all have gone better.” Anne never warmed up to Elizabeth as a companion so their interactions were always awkward. Lady Catherine was as horrendous as expected. There was no Wickham/Lydia drama but there’s a hint that it might be in the second book. It appears the actual wedding will take place in the next book as well as more of Georgiana’s story.
January 31, 2021
I enjoyed this book, although I found aspects of the plot unlikely or underdeveloped, like . The latter was a lost opportunity to make sparks fly between the two main characters. The book is well written, and it was entertaining to see Darcy and Elizabeth explore Tunbridge Wells. I especially enjoyed the ocasional historical reference within the book, as well as the idea that . Perhaps these aspects of the story are developed in a sequel? We shall see.
August 25, 2020
This is a riveting Pride and Prejudice variation, and had me up late, anxious to finish it. It turns out to be the first of two three, but it also stands quite well on its own, with just enough of a few loose ends that I'm interested in reading the next. Great characterization, and I was immersed in the story.
January 17, 2020
Sweet romance Jane Austen style.
Thoroughly enjoyed the characters and time period.
Thoroughly enjoyed the characters and time period.
November 4, 2020
As Pride and Prejudice variations go, this one was quite sweet. The characters stayed true to type, even with the slightly changed circumstances. I plan on reading the follow on in this series next
January 24, 2021
Lively from start to finish
Anyone that loves Austen will love this ensemble story. Lizzy and Mr. Darcy brought me smiles through every page. A great read and a pleasure to start my new year with a new story of familiar friends.
Anyone that loves Austen will love this ensemble story. Lizzy and Mr. Darcy brought me smiles through every page. A great read and a pleasure to start my new year with a new story of familiar friends.
January 4, 2020
Lady Catherine asks Lizzy to be Anne's paid companion for a trip to Tunbridge Wells, and Darcy ends up escorting them. Entertaining hijinks ensue.
I stayed up all night reading this, so cute.
I stayed up all night reading this, so cute.
January 14, 2020
This book was a gem very different from cannon .
Although Lady de berge was still a class a bi--h.
Very enjoyable. On to number 2 now with pleasure.
Although Lady de berge was still a class a bi--h.
Very enjoyable. On to number 2 now with pleasure.
January 24, 2021
I always seem to start of my year's reading with either "Pride and Prejudice" or a retelling of it. "A Lively Companion" is not a repellent fan-fiction version of P&P, but it isn't the best either.
The story starts in the middle of P&P and veers from the story line by having Elizabeth accompany Lady de Bourgh's party, which includes Mr. Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and her daughter Ann, to Tunbridge Wells, acting as Ann's companion. There is no very convincing reason why Mr. Bennett would insist Elizabeth take the demeaning position, or why Elizabeth accepts it. It is merely a plot device, which I found irritating in its improbability. The story proceeds from there basically along the same lines as the original, without Austen's wit or character insight. I can't hold that against the author, since no one has ever come close to successfully imitating Austen. I was gratified that Garrett didn't turn the story into a bodice-ripper as so many unfortunately do. I will give her points for more or less sticking to the mores and manners of the time. Basically, it's just a slightly modified retelling of the original, which, while I appreciate that, it doesn't seem different enough to merit a book. I do see that this is the beginning of a series, so no doubt it will stray further and further from P&P as it goes. I won't tell anyone not to bother with it, as some will certainly enjoy the series. I won't myself, but this is a diverting little story, if not very original. It's well-written enough to pass muster with most readers.
Some may call it nitpicking but honestly, if a writer can't tell the difference between "peaked" and "piqued", they need to work on their English language skills. People learn by what they read. It is a writer's job to be correct.
I give it three stars, although that's generous.
The story starts in the middle of P&P and veers from the story line by having Elizabeth accompany Lady de Bourgh's party, which includes Mr. Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and her daughter Ann, to Tunbridge Wells, acting as Ann's companion. There is no very convincing reason why Mr. Bennett would insist Elizabeth take the demeaning position, or why Elizabeth accepts it. It is merely a plot device, which I found irritating in its improbability. The story proceeds from there basically along the same lines as the original, without Austen's wit or character insight. I can't hold that against the author, since no one has ever come close to successfully imitating Austen. I was gratified that Garrett didn't turn the story into a bodice-ripper as so many unfortunately do. I will give her points for more or less sticking to the mores and manners of the time. Basically, it's just a slightly modified retelling of the original, which, while I appreciate that, it doesn't seem different enough to merit a book. I do see that this is the beginning of a series, so no doubt it will stray further and further from P&P as it goes. I won't tell anyone not to bother with it, as some will certainly enjoy the series. I won't myself, but this is a diverting little story, if not very original. It's well-written enough to pass muster with most readers.
Some may call it nitpicking but honestly, if a writer can't tell the difference between "peaked" and "piqued", they need to work on their English language skills. People learn by what they read. It is a writer's job to be correct.
I give it three stars, although that's generous.
March 24, 2020
Almost wonderful
This is an interesting and engaging variation, although the circumstances are a little strange. Mr. Bennett allows Elizabeth to take a trip to Tunbridge Wells with Lady Catherine, acting as Anne's companion. Why Mr. Bennett agrees to this degradation for Elizabeth, we never find out, but just assume it's because he won't deny anything to Lady Catherine. Darcy and Fitzwilliam accompany them, mostly because Darcy wants more time with Elizabeth, the woman he's in love with.
Darcy displays more of his good qualities in this one, which means that Elizabeth goes much easier on him when she rejects his initial proposal to start a courtship. Darcy is disappointed, but not ready to give up the fight. He sticks around and learns to accept that some changes are in order if he wants a second chance. Elizabeth is softened up with the help of Georgiana, Fitzwilliam, and Darcy's cousins Chuff and Honoria.
The situation is strange because of Elizabeth's status as a companion, and also because she's not much of a companion since Anne DeBourgh doesn't like her. Elizabeth always seems a little lost in this story, being caught between her companion status, and her true social level as a gentleman's daughter. Nonetheless, the story progresses nicely up until late in the tale, when Mr. and Mrs Bennett show up unexpectedly in Tunbridge Wells, supposedly in pursuit of Mr. Bingley for Jane. This is when the story jumps off the rails for me, and becomes a little ludicrous, and is why I deducted a star.
The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it.
This is an interesting and engaging variation, although the circumstances are a little strange. Mr. Bennett allows Elizabeth to take a trip to Tunbridge Wells with Lady Catherine, acting as Anne's companion. Why Mr. Bennett agrees to this degradation for Elizabeth, we never find out, but just assume it's because he won't deny anything to Lady Catherine. Darcy and Fitzwilliam accompany them, mostly because Darcy wants more time with Elizabeth, the woman he's in love with.
Darcy displays more of his good qualities in this one, which means that Elizabeth goes much easier on him when she rejects his initial proposal to start a courtship. Darcy is disappointed, but not ready to give up the fight. He sticks around and learns to accept that some changes are in order if he wants a second chance. Elizabeth is softened up with the help of Georgiana, Fitzwilliam, and Darcy's cousins Chuff and Honoria.
The situation is strange because of Elizabeth's status as a companion, and also because she's not much of a companion since Anne DeBourgh doesn't like her. Elizabeth always seems a little lost in this story, being caught between her companion status, and her true social level as a gentleman's daughter. Nonetheless, the story progresses nicely up until late in the tale, when Mr. and Mrs Bennett show up unexpectedly in Tunbridge Wells, supposedly in pursuit of Mr. Bingley for Jane. This is when the story jumps off the rails for me, and becomes a little ludicrous, and is why I deducted a star.
The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it.
March 11, 2023
Unfortunately, this was a DNF for me. I wanted to like it because I typically enjoy anything Pride and Prejudice related. However, I felt that the plot line fell flat to me, especially towards the end of the story. I feel that the problem lay in the author’s decision to change the original story. The necessary plot points are there, just in less satisfying ways. I understand this is a variation… it just wasn’t for me.
However, I do feel that the character traits of all the MCs were captured very well. I enjoyed the exploration of Anne de Bourgh and Lady Catherine, as well as Georgiana Darcy; I would consider reading their stories in the other books since their characters aren’t given as much back story in the original novel.
It’s so hard to capture such beloved characters as Lizzy and Darcy while changing the story line into something different from the original. I would have enjoyed it more if this story diverged from the original ( as if Tunbridge Wells were sort of a “deleted scene”) and then matched back up with Austen’s classic. It would have felt as if I were getting something extra instead of changing a story that everyone is already attached to.
However, I do feel that the character traits of all the MCs were captured very well. I enjoyed the exploration of Anne de Bourgh and Lady Catherine, as well as Georgiana Darcy; I would consider reading their stories in the other books since their characters aren’t given as much back story in the original novel.
It’s so hard to capture such beloved characters as Lizzy and Darcy while changing the story line into something different from the original. I would have enjoyed it more if this story diverged from the original ( as if Tunbridge Wells were sort of a “deleted scene”) and then matched back up with Austen’s classic. It would have felt as if I were getting something extra instead of changing a story that everyone is already attached to.
September 23, 2020
"When Lizzy Bennet reluctantly agrees to become Anne de Bourgh's companion on a short trip to Tunbridge Wells, she stumbles feet first into a summer of misunderstandings, revelations, and unexpected proposals.
Mr. Darcy, feeling foolish that he came to the brink of a proposal due to an arbitrary deadline, decides to accept his aunt's request to accompany them--hoping that his decision regarding Elizabeth will make itself plain.
While Anne spends her morning dutifully drinking the famed waters of Tunbridge Wells, Lizzy is pulled further into the Darcy and de Bourgh family circle. From Darcy's cousin, Lady Honoria, to his sister, Georgiana, Lizzy can't help feeling that this is a family she would like, except for Mr. Darcy!
Which only makes it all the more painful when she must resolutely reject the proud head of the family..."
A charming retelling of Pride and Prejudice, transposed to a different locale and different circumstances. A delightful read.
Mr. Darcy, feeling foolish that he came to the brink of a proposal due to an arbitrary deadline, decides to accept his aunt's request to accompany them--hoping that his decision regarding Elizabeth will make itself plain.
While Anne spends her morning dutifully drinking the famed waters of Tunbridge Wells, Lizzy is pulled further into the Darcy and de Bourgh family circle. From Darcy's cousin, Lady Honoria, to his sister, Georgiana, Lizzy can't help feeling that this is a family she would like, except for Mr. Darcy!
Which only makes it all the more painful when she must resolutely reject the proud head of the family..."
A charming retelling of Pride and Prejudice, transposed to a different locale and different circumstances. A delightful read.
January 6, 2020
In this P&P variation, while staying at the Hunsford Parsonage Elizabeth Bennet agrees to become Anne de Bourgh's companion while Mrs Jenkinson visits family. Then Lady Catherine decides they will visit Tunbridge Wells. These actions result in Darcy and the Colonel accompanying them. Will this make Darcy and Elizabeth come closer together, or does her status result in an absolute breach.
An enjoyable well-written variation
An enjoyable well-written variation
January 28, 2021
Bad
Okay, it’s my own fault that I purposely tried to re read a variation of a Jane Austen masterpiece that was written on an apple iphone and expected it to be decent but this is far from decent. The author has no grasp of history or manners in regency England, she is a poor writer, and the story plods along riffing on the original. Either create something wholly unique or riff on a minor character in the Austen universe. The book is not well done.
Okay, it’s my own fault that I purposely tried to re read a variation of a Jane Austen masterpiece that was written on an apple iphone and expected it to be decent but this is far from decent. The author has no grasp of history or manners in regency England, she is a poor writer, and the story plods along riffing on the original. Either create something wholly unique or riff on a minor character in the Austen universe. The book is not well done.
April 10, 2024
This book was fine. It was written using the characters from Pride and Prejudice and telling a slightly different version of Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth Bennett getting together.
I liked it, but of course, no one can match Jane Austen's writing. I thought there were a few things written with a heavy hand, but the story was fun and Mr. Collins was thankfully absent!
I doubt I'll seek out any more of the novels in this series though.
I liked it, but of course, no one can match Jane Austen's writing. I thought there were a few things written with a heavy hand, but the story was fun and Mr. Collins was thankfully absent!
I doubt I'll seek out any more of the novels in this series though.
July 6, 2020
Enjoyable read
Well written dialogue and plot that remains faithful to the personalities and behaviors of Austen’s characters. I appreciated that there were no awkward, artificial tensions. I do think the author confused courting and marriage proposal in such a way that made the writing confusing at times.
Well written dialogue and plot that remains faithful to the personalities and behaviors of Austen’s characters. I appreciated that there were no awkward, artificial tensions. I do think the author confused courting and marriage proposal in such a way that made the writing confusing at times.
January 15, 2021
Why are there so many re-imaginings of Pride and Prejudice?!
... and why do I read them all?
This was a pretty good one, though, and most curious as it was written entirely on an iPhone. I figured that would mean countless cringeworthy errors (autocorrect is truly my nemesis!) but there was just one bad homonym that jumped out (one's interest is PIQUED, not PEAKED!)
... and why do I read them all?
This was a pretty good one, though, and most curious as it was written entirely on an iPhone. I figured that would mean countless cringeworthy errors (autocorrect is truly my nemesis!) but there was just one bad homonym that jumped out (one's interest is PIQUED, not PEAKED!)
March 11, 2022
English literature classic
I liked how this book kept to a similar story line to Pride and Prejudice and how the relationship between Lizzy and Mr. Darcy grew from a tolerant relationship to a loving relationship. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading classic literature.
I liked how this book kept to a similar story line to Pride and Prejudice and how the relationship between Lizzy and Mr. Darcy grew from a tolerant relationship to a loving relationship. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading classic literature.
February 25, 2024
I thought this was a sweet story. It was unique to me because I've not read Lizzy being a companion to Anne before. At first I didn't really understand why Lady C would choose Elizabeth but eventually I could see it as a 'keep your enemies closer' type situation. The story is pretty low-angst and a pleasant read. I enjoyed it.
No sex, language or violence
No sex, language or violence
January 2, 2025
This is a most enjoyable book. Beautifully written with a manageable amount of angst from the ‘usual suspects’. A lot more time is spent on letting us enjoy Darcy and Elizabeth as they come to know each other through misunderstandings, failure to communicate at length and from circumstances denying them the opportunity.
Don’t miss it. Enjoy the journey.
Don’t miss it. Enjoy the journey.
January 5, 2020
I've read several retellings of Pride & Prejudice, but never a variation! Oh that was wonderful!! I loved getting to see more of Darcy's personality but it was really in character with Austen's Darcy! And lots of witty Lizzy! I can't wait to start the next one.
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September 12, 2020nice adaptation
There were a few things that were inconsistent with characters or historical accuracy, but overall a fun adaptation. Wood be interested in ready more from this author.
There were a few things that were inconsistent with characters or historical accuracy, but overall a fun adaptation. Wood be interested in ready more from this author.
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