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Torn: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Author's note: An updated version of the manuscript with additional editing/corrections and four new chapters has been uploaded HERE.
"TORN" is a romantic, Regency Pride and Prejudice variation. The road to happiness is set with obstacles to overcome, making the journey more arduous for our beloved characters—and readers.
Separated by pride, prejudice, and misunderstandings, betrayed by their temper and wounded by vanity, Elizabeth and Darcy take separate paths in the heat of anger—and are tormented when they must reap what they have sown.
Darcy struggles to avoid the woman he loves more every day, but Fate keeps bringing them together. Elizabeth’s thoughts wander to Mr Darcy and, even in his absence, her feelings for him improve, until she realizes he is the only man in the world with whom she could be truly happy. Such revelations come far too late when both are bound by promises to others. Can they live a lifetime torn between love and duty?
Stealing a moment of passion one hot summer night, how can Elizabeth and Darcy continue without the other after knowing such true happiness?
Rated Moderate for hot romance but not explicit sex scenes.
Lory Lilian has a golden rule when it comes to reading and writing Jane Austen fan fiction: Elizabeth and Darcy only belong to each other, with no one to separate them. This story might appear to break this rule, but the author kindly asks the readers to trust her.
"Torn" might tear your heart out but Elizabeth and Darcy surely find a way to put it back.
"TORN" is a romantic, Regency Pride and Prejudice variation. The road to happiness is set with obstacles to overcome, making the journey more arduous for our beloved characters—and readers.
Separated by pride, prejudice, and misunderstandings, betrayed by their temper and wounded by vanity, Elizabeth and Darcy take separate paths in the heat of anger—and are tormented when they must reap what they have sown.
Darcy struggles to avoid the woman he loves more every day, but Fate keeps bringing them together. Elizabeth’s thoughts wander to Mr Darcy and, even in his absence, her feelings for him improve, until she realizes he is the only man in the world with whom she could be truly happy. Such revelations come far too late when both are bound by promises to others. Can they live a lifetime torn between love and duty?
Stealing a moment of passion one hot summer night, how can Elizabeth and Darcy continue without the other after knowing such true happiness?
Rated Moderate for hot romance but not explicit sex scenes.
Lory Lilian has a golden rule when it comes to reading and writing Jane Austen fan fiction: Elizabeth and Darcy only belong to each other, with no one to separate them. This story might appear to break this rule, but the author kindly asks the readers to trust her.
"Torn" might tear your heart out but Elizabeth and Darcy surely find a way to put it back.
319 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 24, 2019
109 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
February 1, 2022
Wisdom is knowing what to do next; virtue is doing it. ~ David Star Jordan
Obligation
Responsibility
Promises to Keep
I read a LOT of JAFF. When reading some stories, I think: Elizabeth would have more integrity; Darcy would have more courage; Elizabeth has more self-respect; Darcy has more faith in human nature, etc. etc. etc.
In this book, Elizabeth and Darcy behave with all the integrity and courage anyone could ask of them. I admired them both.
Not being able to govern events, I govern myself. ~ Michel de Montaigne
Our story begins the year after the Disastrous Proposal at Hunsford. Darcy had made amends with Bingley, who soon married Jane but Darcy did not attend the wedding. He had encountered Elizabeth only once in that year.
And then … he learns she is betrothed. But … Darcy also has made a promise to marry!
Elizabeth develops a close friendship with Lady Kendal and her Grandson, Philip Russell, Lord of Alveston. Unfortunately, Lord Alveston is desperately ill with a disease that cannot be diagnosed in Regency England. His prognosis is grim. Lady Kendal feels her age and worries about her grandson as well as her many charitable endeavors. What could be better than an intelligent, compassionate wife for Lord Alveston?
Darcy is crushed to learn that Elizabeth will soon be married. His emotions are further involved when Lady Kendal asks him to aid Elizabeth with understanding financial matters.
To know what is right and not do it is the worst cowardice. ~ Confucius
All our characters have a holiday in Brighton where Darcy and Elizabeth acknowledge their feelings for each other. After a night on the beach, the couple must confront their future: to keep promises made? Or to allow their heart’s desire?
Lydia and Wickham create their usual havoc. One of my favorite scenes has Elizabeth confronting Wickham with the facts of life – that is, the facts of what his life will be with a wife and much less support than he had planned! Loved it.
This is a revised and expanded version of a previous book with the same title. I loved the first. This is even better.
Character is higher than intellect. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
Obligation
Responsibility
Promises to Keep
I read a LOT of JAFF. When reading some stories, I think: Elizabeth would have more integrity; Darcy would have more courage; Elizabeth has more self-respect; Darcy has more faith in human nature, etc. etc. etc.
In this book, Elizabeth and Darcy behave with all the integrity and courage anyone could ask of them. I admired them both.
Not being able to govern events, I govern myself. ~ Michel de Montaigne
Our story begins the year after the Disastrous Proposal at Hunsford. Darcy had made amends with Bingley, who soon married Jane but Darcy did not attend the wedding. He had encountered Elizabeth only once in that year.
And then … he learns she is betrothed. But … Darcy also has made a promise to marry!
Elizabeth develops a close friendship with Lady Kendal and her Grandson, Philip Russell, Lord of Alveston. Unfortunately, Lord Alveston is desperately ill with a disease that cannot be diagnosed in Regency England. His prognosis is grim. Lady Kendal feels her age and worries about her grandson as well as her many charitable endeavors. What could be better than an intelligent, compassionate wife for Lord Alveston?
Darcy is crushed to learn that Elizabeth will soon be married. His emotions are further involved when Lady Kendal asks him to aid Elizabeth with understanding financial matters.
To know what is right and not do it is the worst cowardice. ~ Confucius
All our characters have a holiday in Brighton where Darcy and Elizabeth acknowledge their feelings for each other. After a night on the beach, the couple must confront their future: to keep promises made? Or to allow their heart’s desire?
Lydia and Wickham create their usual havoc. One of my favorite scenes has Elizabeth confronting Wickham with the facts of life – that is, the facts of what his life will be with a wife and much less support than he had planned! Loved it.
This is a revised and expanded version of a previous book with the same title. I loved the first. This is even better.
Character is higher than intellect. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
January 30, 2022
Wisdom is knowing what to do next; virtue is doing it. ~ David Star Jordan
Obligation
Responsibility
Promises to Keep
I read a LOT of JAFF. When reading some stories, I think: Elizabeth would have more integrity; Darcy would have more courage; Elizabeth has more self-respect; Darcy has more faith in human nature, etc. etc. etc.
In this book, Elizabeth and Darcy behave with all the integrity and courage anyone could ask of them. I admired them both.
Not being able to govern events, I govern myself. ~ Michel de Montaigne
Our story begins the year after the Disastrous Proposal at Hunsford. Darcy had made amends with Bingley, who soon married Jane but Darcy did not attend the wedding. He had encountered Elizabeth only once in that year.
And then … he learns she is betrothed. But … Darcy also has made a promise to marry!
Elizabeth develops a close friendship with Lady Kendal and her Grandson, Lord Russell. Unfortunately, Lord Russell is desperately ill with a disease that cannot be diagnosed in Regency England. His prognosis is grim. Lady Kendal feels her age and worries about her grandson as well as her many charitable endeavors. What could be better than an intelligent, compassionate wife for Lord Russell?
Darcy is crushed to learn that Elizabeth will soon be married. His emotions are further involved when Lady Kendal asks him to aid Elizabeth with understanding financial matters.
To know what is right and not do it is the worst cowardice. ~ Confucius
All our characters have a holiday in Brighton where Darcy and Elizabeth acknowledge their feelings for each other.
After a night on the beach, the couple must confront their future: to keep promises made? Or to allow their heart’s desire?
Lydia and Wickham create their usual havoc. One of my favorite scenes has Elizabeth confronting Wickham with the facts of life – that is, the facts of what his life will be with a wife and much less OPM (other people's money) than he had planned! Loved it.
I recommend this to anyone who enjoys JAFF.
Character is higher than intellect. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
Obligation
Responsibility
Promises to Keep
I read a LOT of JAFF. When reading some stories, I think: Elizabeth would have more integrity; Darcy would have more courage; Elizabeth has more self-respect; Darcy has more faith in human nature, etc. etc. etc.
In this book, Elizabeth and Darcy behave with all the integrity and courage anyone could ask of them. I admired them both.
Not being able to govern events, I govern myself. ~ Michel de Montaigne
Our story begins the year after the Disastrous Proposal at Hunsford. Darcy had made amends with Bingley, who soon married Jane but Darcy did not attend the wedding. He had encountered Elizabeth only once in that year.
And then … he learns she is betrothed. But … Darcy also has made a promise to marry!
Elizabeth develops a close friendship with Lady Kendal and her Grandson, Lord Russell. Unfortunately, Lord Russell is desperately ill with a disease that cannot be diagnosed in Regency England. His prognosis is grim. Lady Kendal feels her age and worries about her grandson as well as her many charitable endeavors. What could be better than an intelligent, compassionate wife for Lord Russell?
Darcy is crushed to learn that Elizabeth will soon be married. His emotions are further involved when Lady Kendal asks him to aid Elizabeth with understanding financial matters.
To know what is right and not do it is the worst cowardice. ~ Confucius
All our characters have a holiday in Brighton where Darcy and Elizabeth acknowledge their feelings for each other.
After a night on the beach, the couple must confront their future: to keep promises made? Or to allow their heart’s desire?
Lydia and Wickham create their usual havoc. One of my favorite scenes has Elizabeth confronting Wickham with the facts of life – that is, the facts of what his life will be with a wife and much less OPM (other people's money) than he had planned! Loved it.
I recommend this to anyone who enjoys JAFF.
Character is higher than intellect. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
October 18, 2019
My only complaint about this is that there are so many errata that I was constantly distracted making notes in my Kindle about what should be the correct entry.
This is another of those stories which I usually hesitate to read in that both Darcy and Elizabeth go their separate ways after Hunsford with that proposal and the letter. Darcy acts precipitously (almost as we today call it...on the rebound) and agrees with Aunt Catherine's desires that he propose to his cousin, Anne,...although he just can't seem to get around to setting a wedding date.
Meanwhile Elizabeth has met a Lady Kendal and her grandson, Lord Philip Archibald Russell. A close friendship develops here and Elizabeth becomes involved with that lady's charitable hospitals. That interest was sparked for Lady Kendal due to the fact that her family seems to be plagued with a mysterious illness which has killed off all but this grandson who is hanging on although crippled. A major point here is that the Lady is afraid that if she dies her charities will end as her distant relation and present heir (if her grandson dies) would not have the same desire to keep up the work.
SPOILER: Elizabeth is proposed to by Lady Kendal. If E. marries the grandson she can take control and keep the charities in place. Elizabeth agrees but now must undergo extensive training to understand how to manage all that is involved and how to make sure budgets balance, etc. One of the people who are called upon to help educate Elizabeth is Mr. Darcy. He oversees more than one estate and many investments.
Darcy, in this tale, struggles to avoid being in Elizabeth's company. He suffers greatly when he does see her, knowing she can never be his. Then ironically he, his family (sister, the colonel, Anne), the Bingleys (Jane, Charles, etc.), the Bennets, Lady Kendal, Lord Russell and Elizabeth all vacation at Brighton at the same time. Darcy and Elizabeth meet by chance one night when each goes out upon the beach to a hidden cove. Here...well now I must just say...read the story because I have related enough already.
Elizabeth is engaged, Darcy is engaged but NOT to each other. The author has promised a HEA for ODC so read on. I do recommend this story...it will certainly grab your attention so don't start reading it late in the day. There is a bit of angst.
This is another of those stories which I usually hesitate to read in that both Darcy and Elizabeth go their separate ways after Hunsford with that proposal and the letter. Darcy acts precipitously (almost as we today call it...on the rebound) and agrees with Aunt Catherine's desires that he propose to his cousin, Anne,...although he just can't seem to get around to setting a wedding date.
Meanwhile Elizabeth has met a Lady Kendal and her grandson, Lord Philip Archibald Russell. A close friendship develops here and Elizabeth becomes involved with that lady's charitable hospitals. That interest was sparked for Lady Kendal due to the fact that her family seems to be plagued with a mysterious illness which has killed off all but this grandson who is hanging on although crippled. A major point here is that the Lady is afraid that if she dies her charities will end as her distant relation and present heir (if her grandson dies) would not have the same desire to keep up the work.
SPOILER: Elizabeth is proposed to by Lady Kendal. If E. marries the grandson she can take control and keep the charities in place. Elizabeth agrees but now must undergo extensive training to understand how to manage all that is involved and how to make sure budgets balance, etc. One of the people who are called upon to help educate Elizabeth is Mr. Darcy. He oversees more than one estate and many investments.
Darcy, in this tale, struggles to avoid being in Elizabeth's company. He suffers greatly when he does see her, knowing she can never be his. Then ironically he, his family (sister, the colonel, Anne), the Bingleys (Jane, Charles, etc.), the Bennets, Lady Kendal, Lord Russell and Elizabeth all vacation at Brighton at the same time. Darcy and Elizabeth meet by chance one night when each goes out upon the beach to a hidden cove. Here...well now I must just say...read the story because I have related enough already.
Elizabeth is engaged, Darcy is engaged but NOT to each other. The author has promised a HEA for ODC so read on. I do recommend this story...it will certainly grab your attention so don't start reading it late in the day. There is a bit of angst.
November 3, 2019
Great story
One of the author’s best stories.
I enjoyed the story immensely. After the bad proposal Darcy is shattered and can’t be near Lizzy. He loves her, she hates him, and he can’t take anymore emotional trauma.
Darcy’s letter slowly lets Lizzy think well of Darcy but she cannot take him doing everything possible to not be with her. She thinks he hates her.
The rest of the story proceeds from there. It is a great story and I recommend it highly. It will go in my ‘read again sometime’ pile.
One of the author’s best stories.
I enjoyed the story immensely. After the bad proposal Darcy is shattered and can’t be near Lizzy. He loves her, she hates him, and he can’t take anymore emotional trauma.
Darcy’s letter slowly lets Lizzy think well of Darcy but she cannot take him doing everything possible to not be with her. She thinks he hates her.
The rest of the story proceeds from there. It is a great story and I recommend it highly. It will go in my ‘read again sometime’ pile.
February 28, 2024
Beautiful Story of Love
This review is for the Second Edition of “Torn”
Since Hunsford, Darcy has avoided the company of Elizabeth Bennet at all costs, even after she has befriended his sister Georgiana and Anne de Bourgh, to whom he is now engaged. Elizabeth has wanted to speak to him and apologize for her misjudgment and prejudice since she read his infamous letter following his rejected proposal, but his self-imposed avoidance has left her unable to do so. She is now resigned to the belief Darcy wants nothing to do with her. Charles and Jane are now married.
When Elizabeth meets and befriends Lady Kendal and her ill grandson, Lord Russell, the Earl of Alveston, she is persuaded to accept an engagement and eventual marriage of convenience and the responsibility of overseeing multiple estates and charities. Darcy is engaged to another, after all, and she knows they can never be together. Meanwhile, Darcy’s engagement is a long one, as he really has no immediate desire to wed Anne who feels the same.
A private encounter between ODC in Brighton finally reveals their true feelings to one another but, promises made, duty and honour will continue to keep them apart.
One of our beloved characters being “titled” is one of my favourite tropes and thoroughly captivates my attention when it’s written around a great story. Ms. Lilian has certainly done this with Torn. The secondary characters, Lord Russell and Lady Kendal are extremely likeable, even loved. Your heart goes out to them for the tragedies that filled their lives, and the joy and care they receive from Elizabeth brings them such happiness and comfort before the inevitable must occur. This is more than a love story about Elizabeth and Darcy. It’s also a story of love and compassion for those who needed it most and those willing to give it.
That Elizabeth and Darcy’s hearts are torn between their commitment to honour promises made and do the right thing and, their love for each other knowing they cannot be together truly touches the heart. The author’s expressive writing and excellent dialogue is wonderful, especially when their love and longing is expressed.
“They both knew their love—ardent, deep, complete, consuming, devastating—could not find fulfilment that summer, that night, in that place. It had to wait until its time would finally come, and they—he—could only hope that the fire would remain alive and strong over the months, perhaps the years.”—quote from book
Oh my heart! The journey to their eventual happy ending is a pleasure to read.
The additional chapters added in this second edition improved the story very much in my opinion and, while still not perfect, the proofreading is better. There’s still room for improvement in this regard, however.
I truly love this story and highly recommend it. It will be added to my favourites.
August 9, 2023 - Just finished reading this book for the third time (first read was the 1st edition) and I have to say I love it more each time I read it. I only wish there was an audiobook version as well. I would love to ‘hear’ the words expressed vocally with the right narrator. This is by far my favourite book by Lory Lilian and I’ve read them all.
This review is for the Second Edition of “Torn”
Since Hunsford, Darcy has avoided the company of Elizabeth Bennet at all costs, even after she has befriended his sister Georgiana and Anne de Bourgh, to whom he is now engaged. Elizabeth has wanted to speak to him and apologize for her misjudgment and prejudice since she read his infamous letter following his rejected proposal, but his self-imposed avoidance has left her unable to do so. She is now resigned to the belief Darcy wants nothing to do with her. Charles and Jane are now married.
When Elizabeth meets and befriends Lady Kendal and her ill grandson, Lord Russell, the Earl of Alveston, she is persuaded to accept an engagement and eventual marriage of convenience and the responsibility of overseeing multiple estates and charities. Darcy is engaged to another, after all, and she knows they can never be together. Meanwhile, Darcy’s engagement is a long one, as he really has no immediate desire to wed Anne who feels the same.
A private encounter between ODC in Brighton finally reveals their true feelings to one another but, promises made, duty and honour will continue to keep them apart.
One of our beloved characters being “titled” is one of my favourite tropes and thoroughly captivates my attention when it’s written around a great story. Ms. Lilian has certainly done this with Torn. The secondary characters, Lord Russell and Lady Kendal are extremely likeable, even loved. Your heart goes out to them for the tragedies that filled their lives, and the joy and care they receive from Elizabeth brings them such happiness and comfort before the inevitable must occur. This is more than a love story about Elizabeth and Darcy. It’s also a story of love and compassion for those who needed it most and those willing to give it.
That Elizabeth and Darcy’s hearts are torn between their commitment to honour promises made and do the right thing and, their love for each other knowing they cannot be together truly touches the heart. The author’s expressive writing and excellent dialogue is wonderful, especially when their love and longing is expressed.
“They both knew their love—ardent, deep, complete, consuming, devastating—could not find fulfilment that summer, that night, in that place. It had to wait until its time would finally come, and they—he—could only hope that the fire would remain alive and strong over the months, perhaps the years.”—quote from book
Oh my heart! The journey to their eventual happy ending is a pleasure to read.
The additional chapters added in this second edition improved the story very much in my opinion and, while still not perfect, the proofreading is better. There’s still room for improvement in this regard, however.
I truly love this story and highly recommend it. It will be added to my favourites.
August 9, 2023 - Just finished reading this book for the third time (first read was the 1st edition) and I have to say I love it more each time I read it. I only wish there was an audiobook version as well. I would love to ‘hear’ the words expressed vocally with the right narrator. This is by far my favourite book by Lory Lilian and I’ve read them all.
February 8, 2021
Dude, it's so good, skip this silly review and just read it.
See the P.S, I have a JA edit song recommendation otherwise my opinion and this review is superfluous.
Reader, prepare thyself for a classic JAFF that will capture your heart, and then break it.
Torn is aptly named, as that is the state your heart will be rendered after you eyes grace these lovable pages.
Synopsis:
Darcy heartbroken after Hunsford disaster proposal agrees to be engaged with his cousin Anne to help her get away from Rosings, and he avoids Lizzy like the plague so he never learns her feelings changed.
Our tale begins 10 months later, Darcy is still only engaged, and Lizzy also enters an engagement to help the rich and charitable Lady Russell who wants a reliable lady to inherit her fortune to ensure her charities outlast her, and she and her ailing grandson the handsome and lovable Lord Russell love her and want her to be family.
Darcy is brought back in the fold by Lady Russell after Bingley gets him to help Lizzy with reviewing the estates and wealth she will inherit.
Prepare your bathing suits and gather your pin money, we are joining the Bennets, Bingleys, Darcys, and Fitzwilliams for a summer in Brighton!
Ok, you can’t make Lord Philip Russell utterly handsome, charmingly sardonic;
and tragically star crossed,
and not expect me to fall dumb in love with him and be torn for Lizzy!
Lizzy and Darcy were just perfect, their voice and dialogue on character, not to mention of their scenes electric;
Darcy and Lizzy on the beach, literally;
What I enjoyed:
Jane and Bingley blissful marriage, and Lizzy the adored third wheel, I love Charlie and Lizzy being the best of friends and siblings
Visually stunning scenes, well described and of course the beach setting in Brighton, some other reviews mentioned this, but I echo the allusion to Persuasion with Bath was well suited for story
Great dialogue and characters
Lord Russell and Lady Russell
What Displeased Me:
Nothing except a plot personal preference, you don't need to know as it’s ending spoiler;
Is it too much to ask one damn story without Wickham? Whenever I read a JAFF and think the ole Wickham song and dance will be skipped he shows up;
Conclusion:
Reader, I wept.
It was dope, angsty, and featured super romantic unforgettable iconic JAFF scenes that now live rent free in my mind- and I found it too short, so Austen would approve!
I will definitely be rereading!
Lory Lilian is a goddess, all her work masterful!
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)? YES
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored? YES
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? YES
P.S. I listened to this edit, which is stunning Lizzy and Darcy MV, while reading.
I had to tell someone about it, so check it out reader; https://youtu.be/6iNDvUxqpLw
P.S.S,
I can just picture Mr Collins rolling up to Longbourne like;
See the P.S, I have a JA edit song recommendation otherwise my opinion and this review is superfluous.
Reader, prepare thyself for a classic JAFF that will capture your heart, and then break it.
Torn is aptly named, as that is the state your heart will be rendered after you eyes grace these lovable pages.
Synopsis:
"I am astonished to see you and Darcy, two of the brightest people I know, making the same sort of misstep. What on earth has come over you? You are both choosing a course to please others.”
Darcy heartbroken after Hunsford disaster proposal agrees to be engaged with his cousin Anne to help her get away from Rosings, and he avoids Lizzy like the plague so he never learns her feelings changed.
His love did not diminish, nor the agony of knowing she hated and despised him as much as he adored her.
Our tale begins 10 months later, Darcy is still only engaged, and Lizzy also enters an engagement to help the rich and charitable Lady Russell who wants a reliable lady to inherit her fortune to ensure her charities outlast her, and she and her ailing grandson the handsome and lovable Lord Russell love her and want her to be family.
Darcy is brought back in the fold by Lady Russell after Bingley gets him to help Lizzy with reviewing the estates and wealth she will inherit.
"Very well, my dear. I am relieved to hear that. Please tell me, were Mr Darcy's notes useful to you?"
Elizabeth blushed again. She had read the papers countless times, only to spoil her eyes with his writing.
Prepare your bathing suits and gather your pin money, we are joining the Bennets, Bingleys, Darcys, and Fitzwilliams for a summer in Brighton!
Ok, you can’t make Lord Philip Russell utterly handsome, charmingly sardonic;
“Miss Bennet, I confess I am enjoying your company. In the last two months, I had been visited by several beautiful young ladies. Most of them more beautiful than you and with a much better situation in life but with less spirit.”
and tragically star crossed,
“I know my grandmother is trying to keep me entrained to the end… So she brings different acquaintances to amuse me. And always there is a young, unmarried woman among them. What she forgets is that I am not able to amuse or to entertain anyone and even less a woman. And still, several heiresses in Town are more than willing to attach themselves to me. I am the perfect husband, you know. Horribly rich and dying.”
and not expect me to fall dumb in love with him and be torn for Lizzy!
Lizzy and Darcy were just perfect, their voice and dialogue on character, not to mention of their scenes electric;
"Share this night. Then, when the morning comes, you will leave, as you intended, and I shall rip my heart in two and give you the largest piece.”
Lizzy:
"Elizabeth, my dearest, loveliest, Elizabeth. Do not ask me to leave without you, now that I have tasted the happiness of being with you. I could stay. Nobody would need to know. I could come only when you send for me. I would settle for anything you wish to give me.”.
Darcy and Lizzy on the beach, literally;
What I enjoyed:
Jane and Bingley blissful marriage, and Lizzy the adored third wheel, I love Charlie and Lizzy being the best of friends and siblings
Visually stunning scenes, well described and of course the beach setting in Brighton, some other reviews mentioned this, but I echo the allusion to Persuasion with Bath was well suited for story
Great dialogue and characters
"Despising him and her previous hatred were easier to bear than her hopeless love, and her old anger was less painful than her sad surrender”.
Lord Russell and Lady Russell
What Displeased Me:
Nothing except a plot personal preference, you don't need to know as it’s ending spoiler;
Is it too much to ask one damn story without Wickham? Whenever I read a JAFF and think the ole Wickham song and dance will be skipped he shows up;
Conclusion:
Reader, I wept.
It was dope, angsty, and featured super romantic unforgettable iconic JAFF scenes that now live rent free in my mind- and I found it too short, so Austen would approve!
I will definitely be rereading!
Lory Lilian is a goddess, all her work masterful!
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)? YES
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored? YES
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? YES
P.S. I listened to this edit, which is stunning Lizzy and Darcy MV, while reading.
I had to tell someone about it, so check it out reader; https://youtu.be/6iNDvUxqpLw
P.S.S,
"I still lack useful skills in managing my property," Mr Bennet confessed. "But since my daughters are soon-to-be advantageously married, I intend to abandon it entirely, so Mr Collins would inherit a ruin”
I can just picture Mr Collins rolling up to Longbourne like;
February 5, 2022
This is a copy of most of the review I posted when I read the first edition of this story. I have now left out my comments about the need for editing as that has mostly been attended to as well as the story being extended in the end. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars
"This is another of those stories which I usually hesitate to read in that both Darcy and Elizabeth go their separate ways after Hunsford with that proposal and the letter. Darcy acts precipitously (almost as we today call it...on the rebound) and agrees with Aunt Catherine's desires that he propose to his cousin, Anne,...although he just can't seem to get around to setting a wedding date.
Meanwhile Elizabeth has met a Lady Kendal and her grandson, Lord Philip Archibald Russell. A close friendship develops here and Elizabeth becomes involved with that lady's charitable hospitals. That interest was sparked for Lady Kendal due to the fact that her family seems to be plagued with a mysterious illness which has killed off all but this grandson who is hanging on although crippled. A major point here is that the Lady is afraid that if she dies her charities will end as her distant relation and present heir (if her grandson dies) would not have the same desire to keep up the work.
SPOILER: Elizabeth is proposed to by Lady Kendal. If E. marries the grandson she can take control and keep the charities in place. Elizabeth agrees but now must undergo extensive training to understand how to manage all that is involved and how to make sure budgets balance, etc. One of the people who are called upon to help educate Elizabeth is Mr. Darcy. He oversees more than one estate and many investments.
Darcy, in this tale, struggles to avoid being in Elizabeth's company. He suffers greatly when he does see her, knowing she can never be his. Then ironically he, his family (sister, the colonel, Anne), the Bingleys (Jane, Charles, etc.), the Bennets, Lady Kendal, Lord Russell and Elizabeth all vacation at Brighton at the same time. Darcy and Elizabeth meet by chance one night when each goes out upon the beach to a hidden cove. Here...well now I must just say...read the story because I have related enough already.
Elizabeth is engaged, Darcy is engaged but NOT to each other. The author has promised a HEA for ODC so read on. I do recommend this story...it will certainly grab your attention so don't start reading it late in the day. There is a bit of angst."
I have to add that both Darcy and Elizabeth act with the utmost of honor even though they come close to crossing the line that one night. Darcy keeps such by again avoiding being in Elizabeth's presence. Lady Kendal...finally...is able to detect their feelings for each other and is an incentive to getting them together.
An epilogue gives up the needed follow up to this story.
"This is another of those stories which I usually hesitate to read in that both Darcy and Elizabeth go their separate ways after Hunsford with that proposal and the letter. Darcy acts precipitously (almost as we today call it...on the rebound) and agrees with Aunt Catherine's desires that he propose to his cousin, Anne,...although he just can't seem to get around to setting a wedding date.
Meanwhile Elizabeth has met a Lady Kendal and her grandson, Lord Philip Archibald Russell. A close friendship develops here and Elizabeth becomes involved with that lady's charitable hospitals. That interest was sparked for Lady Kendal due to the fact that her family seems to be plagued with a mysterious illness which has killed off all but this grandson who is hanging on although crippled. A major point here is that the Lady is afraid that if she dies her charities will end as her distant relation and present heir (if her grandson dies) would not have the same desire to keep up the work.
SPOILER: Elizabeth is proposed to by Lady Kendal. If E. marries the grandson she can take control and keep the charities in place. Elizabeth agrees but now must undergo extensive training to understand how to manage all that is involved and how to make sure budgets balance, etc. One of the people who are called upon to help educate Elizabeth is Mr. Darcy. He oversees more than one estate and many investments.
Darcy, in this tale, struggles to avoid being in Elizabeth's company. He suffers greatly when he does see her, knowing she can never be his. Then ironically he, his family (sister, the colonel, Anne), the Bingleys (Jane, Charles, etc.), the Bennets, Lady Kendal, Lord Russell and Elizabeth all vacation at Brighton at the same time. Darcy and Elizabeth meet by chance one night when each goes out upon the beach to a hidden cove. Here...well now I must just say...read the story because I have related enough already.
Elizabeth is engaged, Darcy is engaged but NOT to each other. The author has promised a HEA for ODC so read on. I do recommend this story...it will certainly grab your attention so don't start reading it late in the day. There is a bit of angst."
I have to add that both Darcy and Elizabeth act with the utmost of honor even though they come close to crossing the line that one night. Darcy keeps such by again avoiding being in Elizabeth's presence. Lady Kendal...finally...is able to detect their feelings for each other and is an incentive to getting them together.
An epilogue gives up the needed follow up to this story.
February 25, 2022
Apparently this is a re-edited re-release. I never read the first version, so I only get to comment on the shiny new version, which shows excellent editing. The excellent story deserves an excellent editor to make it shine, and it does.
My reviews are technical reviews so they don't dwell a lot on big picture, rather, they look at details that could put a reader off. For a synopsis or spoilers, you have to look to another review.
The plot is set up so there's no choice but to have a great deal of tension because the protagonists will be separated. There are chances for them to get out of their difficulties, but they can't save face and maintain their good character while doing so. Big angst that is so anticipated, it isn't as bad as it sounded. Contrivances are avoided, which is interesting given that most authors would have jumped at the chance for the quick finish line.
The book starts with a long, though interesting narrative that's too long and should have been spread out throughout the book. We call this type of writing a "backstory dump." This can turn off a reader quickly.
The book is moderate in flow, with a balance of narrative and dialogue that doesn't lend itself to a quick pace.
Language is used to suit the Regency and very few exceptions exist, probably due to that excellent new editor. Some examples of exceptions were "gold digger," mesmerised, staff, and "wedding breakfast." This is nothing compared to the average JAFF novel, however.
Some typos existed: has for had and have for has. An appositive was missing its commas.
Point of view is used relatively well with a few exceptions: twice the author has the protagonist seeing something on herself (she can't see her cheeks lose their colour, for example), and there was a specific section where head-hopping was in use. Otherwise, the changes and depth were excellent.
A Regency issue that I could not understand was why was Lord Alveston not Lord Kendal? Perhaps it was explained in the book and I missed it.
I was also confused over some timing issues, as the book said three months had passed, then some action took place, then the book said there were seven months left in the mourning period. It was as if that action took zero time.
Another issue was the fetching of a "glass of fresh water." All water was contaminated during the Regency, so a small beer or watered wine would have been the refreshment of choice. No one drank water to refresh themselves.
For readers who are sensitive, the book is steamy with no detail. This was masterfully done.
Characterizations of the canon characters took specific aspects from Austen's descriptions and capitalized upon them to make them work well for this story. Excellent choices. As for new characters, they were fresh and believable and not described any more than necessary for their role in the book. All characters were appropriately consistent, in one case, almost to a flaw! Great work.
Scene-setting was also excellent, as the senses were used to make the reader feel like they were in the moment.
The cover is one of Lory Lilian's best to date, literally popping out from amongst all those same old covers you see in JAFF. Her covers have never been same-old though. The featured artwork and the fonts suit the story well.
I am thrilled to be able to say that this is a favourite Lory Lillian novel and it shines from all sorts of directions from a technical standpoint as well as the actual story, which is unique and new. We learn to love the new characters, even those who seem like they could be problematic to the HEA we're seeking, and yet we get that HEA in a realistic fashion without contrivances. Kudos.
Disclaimer: I am a JAFF author, and some might say this review is a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the reader and the author.
My reviews are technical reviews so they don't dwell a lot on big picture, rather, they look at details that could put a reader off. For a synopsis or spoilers, you have to look to another review.
The plot is set up so there's no choice but to have a great deal of tension because the protagonists will be separated. There are chances for them to get out of their difficulties, but they can't save face and maintain their good character while doing so. Big angst that is so anticipated, it isn't as bad as it sounded. Contrivances are avoided, which is interesting given that most authors would have jumped at the chance for the quick finish line.
The book starts with a long, though interesting narrative that's too long and should have been spread out throughout the book. We call this type of writing a "backstory dump." This can turn off a reader quickly.
The book is moderate in flow, with a balance of narrative and dialogue that doesn't lend itself to a quick pace.
Language is used to suit the Regency and very few exceptions exist, probably due to that excellent new editor. Some examples of exceptions were "gold digger," mesmerised, staff, and "wedding breakfast." This is nothing compared to the average JAFF novel, however.
Some typos existed: has for had and have for has. An appositive was missing its commas.
Point of view is used relatively well with a few exceptions: twice the author has the protagonist seeing something on herself (she can't see her cheeks lose their colour, for example), and there was a specific section where head-hopping was in use. Otherwise, the changes and depth were excellent.
A Regency issue that I could not understand was why was Lord Alveston not Lord Kendal? Perhaps it was explained in the book and I missed it.
I was also confused over some timing issues, as the book said three months had passed, then some action took place, then the book said there were seven months left in the mourning period. It was as if that action took zero time.
Another issue was the fetching of a "glass of fresh water." All water was contaminated during the Regency, so a small beer or watered wine would have been the refreshment of choice. No one drank water to refresh themselves.
For readers who are sensitive, the book is steamy with no detail. This was masterfully done.
Characterizations of the canon characters took specific aspects from Austen's descriptions and capitalized upon them to make them work well for this story. Excellent choices. As for new characters, they were fresh and believable and not described any more than necessary for their role in the book. All characters were appropriately consistent, in one case, almost to a flaw! Great work.
Scene-setting was also excellent, as the senses were used to make the reader feel like they were in the moment.
The cover is one of Lory Lilian's best to date, literally popping out from amongst all those same old covers you see in JAFF. Her covers have never been same-old though. The featured artwork and the fonts suit the story well.
I am thrilled to be able to say that this is a favourite Lory Lillian novel and it shines from all sorts of directions from a technical standpoint as well as the actual story, which is unique and new. We learn to love the new characters, even those who seem like they could be problematic to the HEA we're seeking, and yet we get that HEA in a realistic fashion without contrivances. Kudos.
Disclaimer: I am a JAFF author, and some might say this review is a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the reader and the author.
September 30, 2019
"Well you couldn't be that man I adored
You don't seem to know - don't seem to care
What your heart is for
No I don't know him anymore
I'm all out of faith
This is how I feel
Illusion never changed
Into something real
And I can see the perfect sky is torn
You're a little late
I'm already torn"
Torn- Natalie Imbruglia
This P&P what if takes P&P in a whole new direction and that should have delighted me but it didn’t.
One of my major fiction pet peeves is when everything goes wrong because of a simple conversation that was missed. This story could have resolved at the outset had only this happened
But since that didn’t happen we get a LONG DRAWN OUT story about Darcy and Lizzy seemingly loving other people. The Author presents this in an omnipresent vision which leads to way too many plots floating about.
There is also a lot of OOC behavior Because these give away important plot points I will spoiler tag these
I just didn’t enjoy this book and the ending was just bizarre. After spending way too much time in Brighton from numerous POVS the books suddenly becomes a laundry list of happenings.
You don't seem to know - don't seem to care
What your heart is for
No I don't know him anymore
I'm all out of faith
This is how I feel
Illusion never changed
Into something real
And I can see the perfect sky is torn
You're a little late
I'm already torn"
Torn- Natalie Imbruglia
This P&P what if takes P&P in a whole new direction and that should have delighted me but it didn’t.
One of my major fiction pet peeves is when everything goes wrong because of a simple conversation that was missed. This story could have resolved at the outset had only this happened
But since that didn’t happen we get a LONG DRAWN OUT story about Darcy and Lizzy seemingly loving other people. The Author presents this in an omnipresent vision which leads to way too many plots floating about.
There is also a lot of OOC behavior Because these give away important plot points I will spoiler tag these
I just didn’t enjoy this book and the ending was just bizarre. After spending way too much time in Brighton from numerous POVS the books suddenly becomes a laundry list of happenings.
November 3, 2019
I'm glad I waited till I had the proper time and attention to read this as it is one of those stories that is so compelling it just demands to be read in one sitting. There is so much angst in here, I almost couldn't stand it.... while at the same time devouring the pages to see what happens!
Poor old Darcy manages to get himself into a right muddle here... when he meets Elizabeth again at Pemberley he takes off thinking she hates him. He agrees to marry Anne but them doesn't act on it. In the mean time, Elizabeth also becomes engaged in a complicated situation. Between them, they've managed to make such a mess of things and when they see each other again the magnetism is incredible....
This is one of those books where I just couldn't see how things would work out. It was all just too messy... then, when it does come to conclusion I felt almost a bit let down as the final chapters had an almost epilogue feel about them... it's a kind of sequence of events rather than the reader being there first hand. After all the agony we go through, the ending was just too quick.... I think on Kindle we are talking the last 15%ish is the bit we are waiting to get to. Overall, I loved it... but i felt a bit disappointed on reflection with the ending.
I am not always a fan of variations where either Darcy or Elizabeth is, has been or becomes engaged to another... but this has a different feel about it. Elizabeth's story isn't straight forward and her fiancée is really nice... I really felt for him... this is in spite of witnessing Darcy's heartbreak.
I got this via Kindle Unlimited and there were some typos/errors but nothing to detract from my overall enjoyment.
This is a great book.... but completely emotionally exhausting.
Poor old Darcy manages to get himself into a right muddle here... when he meets Elizabeth again at Pemberley he takes off thinking she hates him. He agrees to marry Anne but them doesn't act on it. In the mean time, Elizabeth also becomes engaged in a complicated situation. Between them, they've managed to make such a mess of things and when they see each other again the magnetism is incredible....
This is one of those books where I just couldn't see how things would work out. It was all just too messy... then, when it does come to conclusion I felt almost a bit let down as the final chapters had an almost epilogue feel about them... it's a kind of sequence of events rather than the reader being there first hand. After all the agony we go through, the ending was just too quick.... I think on Kindle we are talking the last 15%ish is the bit we are waiting to get to. Overall, I loved it... but i felt a bit disappointed on reflection with the ending.
I am not always a fan of variations where either Darcy or Elizabeth is, has been or becomes engaged to another... but this has a different feel about it. Elizabeth's story isn't straight forward and her fiancée is really nice... I really felt for him... this is in spite of witnessing Darcy's heartbreak.
I got this via Kindle Unlimited and there were some typos/errors but nothing to detract from my overall enjoyment.
This is a great book.... but completely emotionally exhausting.
September 30, 2019
The Virtue of Patience
Another fine romance by Ms. Lilian. Filled with obstacles of all kinds, the angst is made deliciously bearable by two dutiful lovers who put circumstances and family first. What is seen to be inevitable seems impossible until it is not. Good read when one can ignore the typos and the grammatical errors. Well worth the effort.
Another fine romance by Ms. Lilian. Filled with obstacles of all kinds, the angst is made deliciously bearable by two dutiful lovers who put circumstances and family first. What is seen to be inevitable seems impossible until it is not. Good read when one can ignore the typos and the grammatical errors. Well worth the effort.
November 12, 2019
An honorable ending
A very angsty story as Elizabeth and Darcy are committed to others, but realize they love each other. Is there a solution that will allow them to be happy yet ensure they remain honorable? I enjoy reading books by Lori Lillian and this was no exception. A little more editing for errors would be good, though.
A very angsty story as Elizabeth and Darcy are committed to others, but realize they love each other. Is there a solution that will allow them to be happy yet ensure they remain honorable? I enjoy reading books by Lori Lillian and this was no exception. A little more editing for errors would be good, though.
January 18, 2020
Really wonderful well written just the occasinal odd word correctly spelt but out of context completely.
Which did not detract from the actual story.
LOVED it
Which did not detract from the actual story.
LOVED it
January 30, 2022
Good story but...
Reviewed in Canada on September 26, 2019
I have always liked and and even loved most of this author’s books, and this is no exception. I really enjoyed this story. It was very emotional and touching at times, and I do recommend it. I loved Lady Kendal and my heart went out to Lord Russell. The yearning and torn hearts of ODC touched me.
However, once again, as in her last book, I am very disappointed in the bad proofreading of this book. There were many problems and not just with typos, but with glaring errors, such as calling Lord Russell Lord Kendal, as well as some sentences just not making sense. Too many errors to count, and that really breaks my heart. I’m sorry.
January 11, 2022 Note: I understand a second edition of this book will soon be available from the author. I look forward to reading it again.
Reviewed in Canada on September 26, 2019
I have always liked and and even loved most of this author’s books, and this is no exception. I really enjoyed this story. It was very emotional and touching at times, and I do recommend it. I loved Lady Kendal and my heart went out to Lord Russell. The yearning and torn hearts of ODC touched me.
However, once again, as in her last book, I am very disappointed in the bad proofreading of this book. There were many problems and not just with typos, but with glaring errors, such as calling Lord Russell Lord Kendal, as well as some sentences just not making sense. Too many errors to count, and that really breaks my heart. I’m sorry.
January 11, 2022 Note: I understand a second edition of this book will soon be available from the author. I look forward to reading it again.
February 2, 2022
Liz’s marriage and the tick, Wickham
After the bad proposal at Hunsford Lizzy meets a sickly peer who she marries. Jane has married Bingley so the Bennet family has good, well monied connections. The book is about Lizzy’s marriage and in parallel Wickham and Lydia living off their relations pocket book.
So Lizzy isn’t married to Darcy and an untamable Wickham is always a problem. As a reader the plot is original and the writing is good but there isn’t really happy to read about.
Things will come to an ok finish but Wickham is successful in never having to work for a living.
On top of this the Bennet parents are even stupider than normal. I shan’t read this book again. I was never smiling during my read.
After the bad proposal at Hunsford Lizzy meets a sickly peer who she marries. Jane has married Bingley so the Bennet family has good, well monied connections. The book is about Lizzy’s marriage and in parallel Wickham and Lydia living off their relations pocket book.
So Lizzy isn’t married to Darcy and an untamable Wickham is always a problem. As a reader the plot is original and the writing is good but there isn’t really happy to read about.
Things will come to an ok finish but Wickham is successful in never having to work for a living.
On top of this the Bennet parents are even stupider than normal. I shan’t read this book again. I was never smiling during my read.
July 5, 2021
Torn: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Really wonderful story! I recently noticed it in my Kindle Library and decided to read it again, glad I did! There's so much to this story! The main idea is Elizabeth marries an wealthy, ill young man at his grandmother's request, to help run their charities and such. Although she realizes she loves Darcy, she had made a commitment and wanted to see it through! All is well that ends well but it's an excellent story, shouldn't be missed!
Really wonderful story! I recently noticed it in my Kindle Library and decided to read it again, glad I did! There's so much to this story! The main idea is Elizabeth marries an wealthy, ill young man at his grandmother's request, to help run their charities and such. Although she realizes she loves Darcy, she had made a commitment and wanted to see it through! All is well that ends well but it's an excellent story, shouldn't be missed!
March 21, 2022
Loved this!! I read the earlier version of this. The newer, extended version is even better!!
Elizabeth is engaged to be married and agreed to a marriage of convenience when she learns Darcy is engaged. He believes Elizabeth hates him but when they meet again and his feelings are unchanged... but Elizabeth might now hold a very different opinion of him. What a mess!! With both engaged to other people it's hard to see how there can be a happy ever after!
This story is amazing. It's so full of angst but also real romantic moments too. It's good fun with some great characters.
Elizabeth is engaged to be married and agreed to a marriage of convenience when she learns Darcy is engaged. He believes Elizabeth hates him but when they meet again and his feelings are unchanged... but Elizabeth might now hold a very different opinion of him. What a mess!! With both engaged to other people it's hard to see how there can be a happy ever after!
This story is amazing. It's so full of angst but also real romantic moments too. It's good fun with some great characters.
October 6, 2019
Awesome
Incredible story. Couldn’t put it down. A definite must read for those who love a little angst with their pride and prejudice.
Incredible story. Couldn’t put it down. A definite must read for those who love a little angst with their pride and prejudice.
April 27, 2022
A promise kept
This book was very emotional. After Elizabeth’s feelings change towards Darcy she learns he is engaged to his cousin Anne. Elizabeth’s heartbroken and tries to move on with her life. Meeting new acquaintances leads to friendship. Elizabeth’s personality and honesty bring her the attentions of a lord and his grandmother. They ask her to become part of his family knowing that his lordship is dying and his grandmother has health issues. Elizabeth’s friendship and care make it easier for her to say yes knowing Darcy is no longer a possibility. What happens next is a series of event that change Elizabeth and Darcy forever.
All I can say is holy cow this book was emotional roller coaster but not in a bad way.
This book was very emotional. After Elizabeth’s feelings change towards Darcy she learns he is engaged to his cousin Anne. Elizabeth’s heartbroken and tries to move on with her life. Meeting new acquaintances leads to friendship. Elizabeth’s personality and honesty bring her the attentions of a lord and his grandmother. They ask her to become part of his family knowing that his lordship is dying and his grandmother has health issues. Elizabeth’s friendship and care make it easier for her to say yes knowing Darcy is no longer a possibility. What happens next is a series of event that change Elizabeth and Darcy forever.
All I can say is holy cow this book was emotional roller coaster but not in a bad way.
October 12, 2019
I went into this book knowing that there was going to be angst but damn not that much. I feel so sorry for both Darcy and Lizzy. They want to be together but they are both promised to another. Even after Darcy gets out of his engagement Lizzy keeps her promise to her betrothed and marries him. Though he dies after three years it takes another two for Lizzy to move on with her life and accept Darcy.
I really enjoyed reading a variation where both Lizzy and Darcy are promised to other people. I can't say that I've ever seen another variation like it. If you like a lot of angst with your Pride and Prejudice then this is the book for you.
Rating: 4½ stars out of 5
I really enjoyed reading a variation where both Lizzy and Darcy are promised to other people. I can't say that I've ever seen another variation like it. If you like a lot of angst with your Pride and Prejudice then this is the book for you.
Rating: 4½ stars out of 5
January 22, 2024
A wonderful story but bring tissues
As I began reading this variation, I was unsure I would like it. Yet it presented a situation where Darcy and Elizabeth did not resolve their misunderstandings. Lord Russel was the only “other man” who could have worked to allow ODC to grow as needed. Tears appeared more than once as I finished the book in one sitting. Definitely worth at least 5 stars.
Highly recommended to all readers and JAFF aficionados who welcome a story with depth and emotion. Don’t expect a light easy read.
As I began reading this variation, I was unsure I would like it. Yet it presented a situation where Darcy and Elizabeth did not resolve their misunderstandings. Lord Russel was the only “other man” who could have worked to allow ODC to grow as needed. Tears appeared more than once as I finished the book in one sitting. Definitely worth at least 5 stars.
Highly recommended to all readers and JAFF aficionados who welcome a story with depth and emotion. Don’t expect a light easy read.
January 23, 2024
Enjoyed the storyline, but found the writing painful. Skim read sections, just to get through it. On the plus side, plenty of angst and a good plot, with interesting new characters to boot. 2.5 stars rounded up to 3.
August 25, 2022
I loved this angsty alternative to Pride and Prejudice that has Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth with obligations that don't allow them to be together. The story starts a year after Mr. Darcy's ill-fated proposal to Elizabeth, and they haven't encountered each other. Elizabeth was able to warn off Mr. Bennet from allowing Lydia to go to Brighton, so she didn't elope with Wickham there. During this time, Mr. Bingley has married Jane at Mr. Darcy's suggestion that he was wrong about his assessment of her.
This is the first JAFF I have read from this author, and I look forward to reading more from her!
Things That Worked:
- Not too long after Elizabeth turned down Mr. Darcy's proposal, she hears through Bingley that he is engaged to be married to Anne.
- I liked seeing Elizabeth and her family become friends with Georgiana and Anne independent of Mr. Darcy.
- Elizabeth's relationship with Lady Kendal as a grandmother figure was sweet, and I really felt for all of the tragedy she had experienced in her family. Her grandson is also afflicted with an unnamed illness from her husband's side of the family, and can no longer stand on his own and likely doesn't have long to live.
- Watching Elizabeth learn about estate management from Mr. Darcy and learning to be around each other as friends when they were both betrothed to others was so heart wrenching to see.
Things That Didn't Work:
- Elizabeth was a little more confrontational when maybe not necessary in this book than I felt was totally authentic to her character, but that's a minor critique on my part rather than something I felt like took extensively away from the story.
This is the first JAFF I have read from this author, and I look forward to reading more from her!
Things That Worked:
- Not too long after Elizabeth turned down Mr. Darcy's proposal, she hears through Bingley that he is engaged to be married to Anne.
- I liked seeing Elizabeth and her family become friends with Georgiana and Anne independent of Mr. Darcy.
- Elizabeth's relationship with Lady Kendal as a grandmother figure was sweet, and I really felt for all of the tragedy she had experienced in her family. Her grandson is also afflicted with an unnamed illness from her husband's side of the family, and can no longer stand on his own and likely doesn't have long to live.
- Watching Elizabeth learn about estate management from Mr. Darcy and learning to be around each other as friends when they were both betrothed to others was so heart wrenching to see.
Things That Didn't Work:
- Elizabeth was a little more confrontational when maybe not necessary in this book than I felt was totally authentic to her character, but that's a minor critique on my part rather than something I felt like took extensively away from the story.
October 15, 2019
OMG
After reading the summary at the start of the book, I should have expected the emotional and heart wrenching tale to come. It's a dramatic story, about ODC meeting again many months after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, both with severe regrets, and both now committed to other marriages. Darcy feels he screwed up his chance for happiness with the stupid way he worded his proposal. Elizabeth can't come to terms with how badly she misjudged Darcy, and has come to realize over time that he would have been her perfect match.
The Darcy story is pretty much expected, that he ends up giving in to Lady Catherine and becomes engaged to Anne. We find out only much later that he's done this as a favor to Anne, to help her in her desperation to get away from her mother, go to London, and experience life as a free woman. Neither Darcy nor Anne are in any hurry to marry, and are willing to maintain their arrangement for as long as possible.
Elizabeth's story, on the other hand, is the one filled with drama and emotion. The tragic lives of Lady Kendal and her grandson, Lord Russell, become the focus of her life after her relationship with them grows to the point of trust and love, and finally to a proposal of marriage to Lord Russell. Although it's an arrangement among the three of them, and although Elizabeth knows her marriage can never be consummated, she has enough genuine affection and love for them to agree. Then she meets Darcy again in London, and their feelings for each other become a source of torment, because there's nothing either of them can do.
It's a classic tale of love unfulfilled, and the struggle to either see each other in society and suffer, or avoid each other and suffer while wondering what the other one is feeling. The book is very well written, and the plot is well developed. I deducted a star only for the extreme melodrama, and frequent repetition of Darcy and Elizabeth 's torments. There is quite a lot of space dedicated to thoughts and feelings and struggles.
As the author states in her synopsis, the eventual reunion of ODC is a definite requirement of hers, and surely we all know it must happen sooner or later. In this version, it's much later, which is a cause of some suspense and much impatience. Get your box of tissues, and settle in for a heart wrenching tale, but a very good one. I recommend it highly.
After reading the summary at the start of the book, I should have expected the emotional and heart wrenching tale to come. It's a dramatic story, about ODC meeting again many months after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, both with severe regrets, and both now committed to other marriages. Darcy feels he screwed up his chance for happiness with the stupid way he worded his proposal. Elizabeth can't come to terms with how badly she misjudged Darcy, and has come to realize over time that he would have been her perfect match.
The Darcy story is pretty much expected, that he ends up giving in to Lady Catherine and becomes engaged to Anne. We find out only much later that he's done this as a favor to Anne, to help her in her desperation to get away from her mother, go to London, and experience life as a free woman. Neither Darcy nor Anne are in any hurry to marry, and are willing to maintain their arrangement for as long as possible.
Elizabeth's story, on the other hand, is the one filled with drama and emotion. The tragic lives of Lady Kendal and her grandson, Lord Russell, become the focus of her life after her relationship with them grows to the point of trust and love, and finally to a proposal of marriage to Lord Russell. Although it's an arrangement among the three of them, and although Elizabeth knows her marriage can never be consummated, she has enough genuine affection and love for them to agree. Then she meets Darcy again in London, and their feelings for each other become a source of torment, because there's nothing either of them can do.
It's a classic tale of love unfulfilled, and the struggle to either see each other in society and suffer, or avoid each other and suffer while wondering what the other one is feeling. The book is very well written, and the plot is well developed. I deducted a star only for the extreme melodrama, and frequent repetition of Darcy and Elizabeth 's torments. There is quite a lot of space dedicated to thoughts and feelings and struggles.
As the author states in her synopsis, the eventual reunion of ODC is a definite requirement of hers, and surely we all know it must happen sooner or later. In this version, it's much later, which is a cause of some suspense and much impatience. Get your box of tissues, and settle in for a heart wrenching tale, but a very good one. I recommend it highly.
December 27, 2021
Too many errors to be enjoyable.
April 25, 2022
There are not that many books who can do unbridled passion well, and then not diminish it for what the reader expects by allowing the reader to fill in the gaps for themselves at exactly the right time, and with respect to the characters we have all grown to love. I did not read the first edition, so when Lory said she was coming out with this update I was happy to repurchase the book because she was so pleased with it, or maybe had a renewed pleasure in it. Now I know why and am glad that I waited. The timing, the intervention, the utter devastation of being in love with someone you do not believe you can have, it is pain which many buckle under. But the love, when it is a shared torment, is beautifully written to be both pleasure and pain in turns. A beautiful novel, from beginning to end.
February 22, 2022
This story finds Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy making future plans for their lives after Hunsford. Fitzwilliam is engaged to his cousin Anne, since he is convinced Elizabeth will have nothing to do with him. Elizabeth is convinced that Darcy hates her, so she enters an engagement with an Earl who has a terminal illness with the blessing of his family.
The title of this book is very appropriate as Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam are torn between what they want and what is right. As you read it you can feel the initial joy, agony, despair, hope and everything in-between. The author did an amazing job. I will look forward to re-reading this book in the future.
The title of this book is very appropriate as Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam are torn between what they want and what is right. As you read it you can feel the initial joy, agony, despair, hope and everything in-between. The author did an amazing job. I will look forward to re-reading this book in the future.
December 18, 2022
Two loves kept apart by honor
Always enjoy Lory's variations. Darcy and Elizabeth just can't seem to bring it together. Elizabeth appears at Pemberly and Darcy bolts. She doesn't have the opportunity to tell him how she feels. Then time passes and engagements to others are announced.
This is a strong Elizabeth. She gives Wickham that "I know your past and you cannot charm me" in such a way that was gratifying.Later the showdown with Caroline. Hurrah!
Very touching relationship with two new characters that will soften your heart. A different kind of fluff there.
In the end of course there is a HEA. Not too high on the anger scale and a delightful read.
Always enjoy Lory's variations. Darcy and Elizabeth just can't seem to bring it together. Elizabeth appears at Pemberly and Darcy bolts. She doesn't have the opportunity to tell him how she feels. Then time passes and engagements to others are announced.
This is a strong Elizabeth. She gives Wickham that "I know your past and you cannot charm me" in such a way that was gratifying.Later the showdown with Caroline. Hurrah!
Very touching relationship with two new characters that will soften your heart. A different kind of fluff there.
In the end of course there is a HEA. Not too high on the anger scale and a delightful read.
March 13, 2022
A bit idealistic
I find it harder to believe than Mrs. Bennet that Elizabeth could marry so well, not just once, but twice. And to remain chaste until both she and Darcy were available to each other. And to be such a loyal and loving wife to her sickly first husband. And to hide it all from the rest of the world. It's good to be a character in a novel. Speaking of Philip, what were the qualities that drained him as a good man? Did he ever do any Duke-ly duties? (Or was he an Earl? No emphasis, so I forget.)
I find it harder to believe than Mrs. Bennet that Elizabeth could marry so well, not just once, but twice. And to remain chaste until both she and Darcy were available to each other. And to be such a loyal and loving wife to her sickly first husband. And to hide it all from the rest of the world. It's good to be a character in a novel. Speaking of Philip, what were the qualities that drained him as a good man? Did he ever do any Duke-ly duties? (Or was he an Earl? No emphasis, so I forget.)
September 27, 2019
Beautiful story
I had some trepidation about this story because it didn't appear that Elizabeth and Darcy would end up together. Fortunately I stuck with it and was pleased although I did shed a few tears. My only complaint about this story is the number of spelling errors, usage of the incorrect word, and grammatical errors. Please, return and fix these because they distract the reader. Otherwise it's quite well written with a believable plot.
I had some trepidation about this story because it didn't appear that Elizabeth and Darcy would end up together. Fortunately I stuck with it and was pleased although I did shed a few tears. My only complaint about this story is the number of spelling errors, usage of the incorrect word, and grammatical errors. Please, return and fix these because they distract the reader. Otherwise it's quite well written with a believable plot.
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