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Tact: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
“I must not speak for my sister, even to you who have been all goodness and kindness throughout this awkward situation. Only know," and here she broke off, suddenly shy, "that even though I must deny myself the privilege of being your wife for love of my sister, I should very dearly like to have you for a brother!"
Elizabeth Bennet does not set out to manipulate people; it is merely that the correct choice of words, accompanied by an engaging smile or a beseeching look, yields the most satisfactory results. The morning after the Netherfield ball, Lizzy dispenses with one unwelcome suitor to her hand so amicably and successfully that she sees no reason why she should not make use of her talent for tactful speeches and deal with other unwelcome suitors in the same deft manner.
Unfortunately, not all young men are quite so obligingly obtuse as her poor foolish cousin, and Elizabeth finds that one particular gentleman from Derbyshire proves annoyingly impervious to her cunning.
Elizabeth Bennet does not set out to manipulate people; it is merely that the correct choice of words, accompanied by an engaging smile or a beseeching look, yields the most satisfactory results. The morning after the Netherfield ball, Lizzy dispenses with one unwelcome suitor to her hand so amicably and successfully that she sees no reason why she should not make use of her talent for tactful speeches and deal with other unwelcome suitors in the same deft manner.
Unfortunately, not all young men are quite so obligingly obtuse as her poor foolish cousin, and Elizabeth finds that one particular gentleman from Derbyshire proves annoyingly impervious to her cunning.
180 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 24, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
August 4, 2019
Pleasantly surprised at how much I liked Mr. Collins, Lady Catherine, Mrs. Bennet, and even Lydia.
November 29, 2025
Politeness is the art of choosing among one's real thoughts. ~ Abel Stevens
As a very young girl, Elizabeth Bennet was rudely outspoken, unconcerned about the feelings of her more sensitive sisters. Unusually, it was her Mother’s counsel that curbed her behavior.
Quote from the book: It had been her mother, of all people, who had clinched the matter. Heavily pregnant with Catherine, Mrs. Bennet had been confined to the house and thus had little but the squabbles of infants and the ordering of her household to concern herself with. With great wisdom, she had called her bright-eyed child to her bedside and with great care had shown her that the challenge of protecting the feelings of others was rather more difficult than the challenge of wounding them.
Elizabeth matures with a well-developed awareness of the emotional needs of others. Her refusal of an unwanted proposal from Mr. Collins is a masterpiece of kindness.
Good manners are made up of petty sacrifices. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
Elizabeth does not consider her need to refuse a second proposal to be a petty sacrifice. Darcy considers the refusal to be a point against the manner of the proposal and not a mark against him personally. He is determined to continue the chase. Lady Catherine plays an unusual role in the Disastrous Hunsford Proposal.
Anne de Bourgh makes overtures of friendship which Elizabeth mis-interprets. I enjoyed seeing Elizabeth forced to see her “polite rudeness” to Anne. She needs learning and growing experiences as much as Darcy.
This is a clean, enjoyable story about an easier outcome to the canon P&P story. It is well-written and proofread.
I loved it!
Says the rude child: "No, I won't do it."
Says the courteous grown-up: "Yes, I won't do it."
~ Mignon McLaughlin
As a very young girl, Elizabeth Bennet was rudely outspoken, unconcerned about the feelings of her more sensitive sisters. Unusually, it was her Mother’s counsel that curbed her behavior.
Quote from the book: It had been her mother, of all people, who had clinched the matter. Heavily pregnant with Catherine, Mrs. Bennet had been confined to the house and thus had little but the squabbles of infants and the ordering of her household to concern herself with. With great wisdom, she had called her bright-eyed child to her bedside and with great care had shown her that the challenge of protecting the feelings of others was rather more difficult than the challenge of wounding them.
Elizabeth matures with a well-developed awareness of the emotional needs of others. Her refusal of an unwanted proposal from Mr. Collins is a masterpiece of kindness.
Good manners are made up of petty sacrifices. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
Elizabeth does not consider her need to refuse a second proposal to be a petty sacrifice. Darcy considers the refusal to be a point against the manner of the proposal and not a mark against him personally. He is determined to continue the chase. Lady Catherine plays an unusual role in the Disastrous Hunsford Proposal.
Anne de Bourgh makes overtures of friendship which Elizabeth mis-interprets. I enjoyed seeing Elizabeth forced to see her “polite rudeness” to Anne. She needs learning and growing experiences as much as Darcy.
This is a clean, enjoyable story about an easier outcome to the canon P&P story. It is well-written and proofread.
I loved it!
Says the rude child: "No, I won't do it."
Says the courteous grown-up: "Yes, I won't do it."
~ Mignon McLaughlin
February 1, 2020
My Rating: 4.5* rounded up to 5*
The first word that came to mind while reading this book was 'elegant'. There is something in the way this author writes that appeals to me greatly...a certain turn of phrase, a descriptive verse even the twists and turns she puts on certain characters - sage advice from Mrs. Bennet!
"Elizabeth had the greatest command over language. She had discovered at a young age that the correct selection of words could raise a smile or bring a tear with relative ease." (quote from the book)
I was completely charmed by this Elizabeth Bennet as was Mr. Darcy...he knew what she was about...or thought he did. The Hunsford proposal is even a touch worse than canon. What a bungle Mr. Darcy's pride has made of it. What surprising events happened afterwards!
"Tact in its most delicate form would be necessary for every word she spoke if she was to conclude this unpleasant interview on civil terms with him." (quote from the book)
I must say though, that this is one 'ardent' Darcy! Between eavesdropping, slight manipulation of sisters, a brother that defends his sister and an aunt who defends her nephew, this delightful story just warmed my heart.
"Clever Eliza!...I wonder how soon people will start to realise that you are the fabled piper - piping the tune that we all dance merrily to." (quote from the book)
I highly recommend this novel and look forward to reading the sequel, "Turned Out Well".
February 16, 2021
“There is no hint too broad for a woman of little tact.” –Linda Berdoll, The Darcys: New Pleasures
Rating: clean: this review may contain spoilers. Source: borrowed from KU 2-13-21
“Tact: the ability to describe others as they see themselves.” –Abraham Lincoln
I wondered at the choice of title but quickly saw that our Elizabeth Bennet had learned at an early age the use of ‘tact’ and quite effectively, I must say. She was able to manage her friends, neighbors, her mother, sisters, and occasionally even her father. He knew what she was doing and thought it was delightfully entertaining.
“Real love amounts to withholding the truth, even when you’re offered the perfect opportunity to hurt someone’s feelings.” –David Sedaris, Dress Your Family in corduroy and Denim
When Mr. Collins came to call on the daughters of Longbourn, our Elizabeth used her skills to manipulate… um… tactfully redirect his ardor to the satisfaction of more than herself. This, of course, left her mother flustered, confused, and not quite sure what had happened. I had to admit, along with Mr. Bennet, that I also found it delightfully entertaining. The Netherfield debacle happened as in canon with Elizabeth determined to always think the worst of Mr. Darcy… wordplay… indeed.
“Remember not only to say the right thing in the right place, but far more difficult still, to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment.” –Benjamin Franklin
In speeding our story forward, we find our characters in Kent where they endured the DHP [Disastrous Hunsford Proposal]. That was where our intrepid Elizabeth calmly attempted to, once again manipulate… um… tactfully refusal Mr. Darcy’s horrid proposal. However, Mr. Darcy was more intelligent than Mr. Collins and was not put off so easily. Elizabeth quickly realized her tact didn’t seem to work on Mr. Darcy. Now, what was Elizabeth to do? She tried several different maneuvers to keep from telling him what she really thought of him and somehow managed to temporarily put him off. Then her world turned upside down when Lady Catherine came to the parsonage to champion her nephew and his address toward Elizabeth. What??? How on earth did that happen? What was going on?
Poor Lady Catherine, my heart went out to her. Such feelings and strength to carry on when all her hopes and dreams were not to be realized. I even teared up at one point. I know… that never happens with Lady Catherine.
What I didn’t like: It—took—too—long to get to the HEA. This Elizabeth was off her game to the point I wanted to strangle her. She was so stubborn… she would argue with a fence post. That got old very quickly. Poor Darcy was put through the wringer. I wanted to ask him if she was worth it. EVERYONE tried to talk to her and she stubbornly held tightly to her opinions and caution against Darcy. What more could the poor guy do to please her? GRRR! Other than that, the page-time between ODC was really good. I even liked Lady Catherine. Yeah, I know… that is unusual.
“Tact is the ability to step on a man’s toes without messing up the shine on his shoes.” –Harry S. Truman
Rating: clean: this review may contain spoilers. Source: borrowed from KU 2-13-21
“Tact: the ability to describe others as they see themselves.” –Abraham Lincoln
I wondered at the choice of title but quickly saw that our Elizabeth Bennet had learned at an early age the use of ‘tact’ and quite effectively, I must say. She was able to manage her friends, neighbors, her mother, sisters, and occasionally even her father. He knew what she was doing and thought it was delightfully entertaining.
“Real love amounts to withholding the truth, even when you’re offered the perfect opportunity to hurt someone’s feelings.” –David Sedaris, Dress Your Family in corduroy and Denim
When Mr. Collins came to call on the daughters of Longbourn, our Elizabeth used her skills to manipulate… um… tactfully redirect his ardor to the satisfaction of more than herself. This, of course, left her mother flustered, confused, and not quite sure what had happened. I had to admit, along with Mr. Bennet, that I also found it delightfully entertaining. The Netherfield debacle happened as in canon with Elizabeth determined to always think the worst of Mr. Darcy… wordplay… indeed.
“Remember not only to say the right thing in the right place, but far more difficult still, to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment.” –Benjamin Franklin
In speeding our story forward, we find our characters in Kent where they endured the DHP [Disastrous Hunsford Proposal]. That was where our intrepid Elizabeth calmly attempted to, once again manipulate… um… tactfully refusal Mr. Darcy’s horrid proposal. However, Mr. Darcy was more intelligent than Mr. Collins and was not put off so easily. Elizabeth quickly realized her tact didn’t seem to work on Mr. Darcy. Now, what was Elizabeth to do? She tried several different maneuvers to keep from telling him what she really thought of him and somehow managed to temporarily put him off. Then her world turned upside down when Lady Catherine came to the parsonage to champion her nephew and his address toward Elizabeth. What??? How on earth did that happen? What was going on?
Poor Lady Catherine, my heart went out to her. Such feelings and strength to carry on when all her hopes and dreams were not to be realized. I even teared up at one point. I know… that never happens with Lady Catherine.
What I didn’t like: It—took—too—long to get to the HEA. This Elizabeth was off her game to the point I wanted to strangle her. She was so stubborn… she would argue with a fence post. That got old very quickly. Poor Darcy was put through the wringer. I wanted to ask him if she was worth it. EVERYONE tried to talk to her and she stubbornly held tightly to her opinions and caution against Darcy. What more could the poor guy do to please her? GRRR! Other than that, the page-time between ODC was really good. I even liked Lady Catherine. Yeah, I know… that is unusual.
“Tact is the ability to step on a man’s toes without messing up the shine on his shoes.” –Harry S. Truman
March 28, 2025
Very funny!
July 12, 2019
This is a very intriguing variation. Elizabeth Bennet's thoughtful, measured responses to both of her unwanted marriage proposals - and her gift for diplomacy in general - create various changes in trajectory of the story. In addition, we have a more reasonable Lady Catherine who recognizes her daughter's serious illness and consequent inability to wed her nephew.
It begins the morning after the Netherfield ball, prior events presumably being in accordance with canon and Elizabeth's dislike for Mr. Darcy established. Mr. Collins pays his addresses to Elizabeth. Not only does she refuse his offer in a way that retains his good will, she manages to direct his attention in a better direction. Later, during Elizabeth's visit to Hunsford, Darcy gives additional cause for her to be irked with him even before Colonel Fitzwilliam gives away his role in separating Mr. Bingley from her sister Jane.
The Hunsford proposal scene is one of the best I've read. Darcy is even more insulting than in canon. Elizabeth inwardly seethes at it but keeps her wits about her. She does a masterful job of refusing Darcy without offense while making him painfully aware of how awful he sounded. To her dismay, this only increases his admiration for her. He's even more determined to overcome her objections and marry her. Elizabeth, meanwhile, doesn't want to marry without being in love with her husband. She's convinced that, regardless of what Darcy does, she'll never grow to care enough for him.
This is a new author, and I'm very impressed. The writing flows nicely with an imaginative plot that's well constructed. I love the scenes showing how Elizabeth takes advantage of circumstances to tactfully manage others - Mr. Collins, Mr. Darcy, Sir William Lucas, and even Mary, Lydia and Kitty.
Content is clean.
It begins the morning after the Netherfield ball, prior events presumably being in accordance with canon and Elizabeth's dislike for Mr. Darcy established. Mr. Collins pays his addresses to Elizabeth. Not only does she refuse his offer in a way that retains his good will, she manages to direct his attention in a better direction. Later, during Elizabeth's visit to Hunsford, Darcy gives additional cause for her to be irked with him even before Colonel Fitzwilliam gives away his role in separating Mr. Bingley from her sister Jane.
The Hunsford proposal scene is one of the best I've read. Darcy is even more insulting than in canon. Elizabeth inwardly seethes at it but keeps her wits about her. She does a masterful job of refusing Darcy without offense while making him painfully aware of how awful he sounded. To her dismay, this only increases his admiration for her. He's even more determined to overcome her objections and marry her. Elizabeth, meanwhile, doesn't want to marry without being in love with her husband. She's convinced that, regardless of what Darcy does, she'll never grow to care enough for him.
This is a new author, and I'm very impressed. The writing flows nicely with an imaginative plot that's well constructed. I love the scenes showing how Elizabeth takes advantage of circumstances to tactfully manage others - Mr. Collins, Mr. Darcy, Sir William Lucas, and even Mary, Lydia and Kitty.
Content is clean.
November 15, 2021
In this story we have Elizabeth learning from her mother (of all people)
“It is not a sign of stupidity to be kind, Lizzy. The most intelligent lady in the land can use her charm and wit to soothe rather than rile. I wonder, my love, if you would wish to become a lady who is universally liked or one who is avoided." Another way of saying "You can attract more flies with honey than with vinegar."
Elizabeth does take this to heart while growing up. Then an adult her first big challenge in using this method is as Collins proposes to her. By the end of that episode the man is convinced that it was his idea to speak to another sister rather than Elizabeth...and he now holds Elizabeth in great esteem...as a sister. Even later we find him offering help to Elizabeth when things are not going well.
However, the greater challenge comes when it is Darcy who pursues her. The HEA doesn't happen so quickly. Darcy even pleads that he will do anything to win her and so she decides to allow a "courtship" intending in the end to let him down gently. Of course, you know how the story goes.
Surprisingly, Lady Catherine urges Elizabeth to accept Darcy. Plus the Colonel at one point hints he might find Elizabeth to his liking...until warned off by Darcy.
There was no angst in this story for me. It is simply a retelling of P&P with the biggest change being in Elizabeth's behavior, in her handling of other's feelings.
“It is not a sign of stupidity to be kind, Lizzy. The most intelligent lady in the land can use her charm and wit to soothe rather than rile. I wonder, my love, if you would wish to become a lady who is universally liked or one who is avoided." Another way of saying "You can attract more flies with honey than with vinegar."
Elizabeth does take this to heart while growing up. Then an adult her first big challenge in using this method is as Collins proposes to her. By the end of that episode the man is convinced that it was his idea to speak to another sister rather than Elizabeth...and he now holds Elizabeth in great esteem...as a sister. Even later we find him offering help to Elizabeth when things are not going well.
However, the greater challenge comes when it is Darcy who pursues her. The HEA doesn't happen so quickly. Darcy even pleads that he will do anything to win her and so she decides to allow a "courtship" intending in the end to let him down gently. Of course, you know how the story goes.
Surprisingly, Lady Catherine urges Elizabeth to accept Darcy. Plus the Colonel at one point hints he might find Elizabeth to his liking...until warned off by Darcy.
There was no angst in this story for me. It is simply a retelling of P&P with the biggest change being in Elizabeth's behavior, in her handling of other's feelings.
December 21, 2021
The book equivalent of Lizzy; witty, charming and light hearted.
I picked this JAFF out because I was intrigued with the premise but I admit I wasn’t expecting to be as impressed with the dialogue as I was, since novelette’s tend to lack in that front.
Fear not the occurrence of such disillusionment in this work, for the author honors Austen’s characters and writing with aplomb.
Synopsis:
They say you ought to write what you know, and Jeannie Peneaux did just that when she wrote Tact: A Pride and Prejudice Variation, for she positively exudes the trait, and it is reflected in her writing with masterful skill.
Lizzy is very much herself here, perhaps just more capable, see she has always known her ability with words extended past making smart quips or memorable comments, her ability to mould sentences extends to almost a gift of influencing others to her will. And like all heroes she learns early on she with great power comes great responsibility. She made an oath she would reign in her mischief and try to curve her abilities and use them for good, she does this for her dear sister Jane, as always.
Lizzy:
This Lizzy is charming, apt and confident. You will be familiar with her but also impressed by how much more she is capable of and how such a Lizzy could improve not only circumstance but those around her.
It stars off during Mr Collins proposal and then follows the events of P&P, but watch Lizzy turn her would be antagonists into supporting players due to her presenting the best version of herself and being kind to those around her! A lovely moral for all!
I for one really enjoyed Lizzy behavior being corrected, as sometimes I too feel like a farce when I try to be kind. I always suspected I was not naturally inclined to it but rather learning to mimic it. I was a bit of a selfish, spoiled only child, much like Mr Darcy, but my family teased and reprimanded it out of me.
Thank gad or I might be in need of a good set down. Mrs. Reynolds did observe that, " they who are good-natured when children are good-natured when they grow up." Thus Lizzy acting out she was kind, and unwittingly learning the habit until she actually was so, I found to be relatable.
The Hunsford Proposal received a particularly handsome twist in this telling, as Lizzy agreed with Darcy that her family was unsuitable as a way to politely rejecting him!
La, what a joke! To read Darcy's face! I imagined it something like this;
I found myself in fits of laughter at Lizzy’s wit and if you've read enough JAFF, you've noted by now that many authors are unable to display an ability to write witty rejoinders and often lean heavily on summarizing Lizzy is clever and funny but lack the words to prove it and thus leave you unsatisfied.
What I enjoyed:
-Lizzy is savage i.e,
-Mr Collins becoming a good brother, all he needed was some faith and encouragement!
-Lizzy being a mastermind;
-Reflects that Lizzy looked down on others just as Darcy, if perhaps she had employed some tact she could have encouraged others to be their best self, let this be a lesson to us all, being dismissive of others around you doesn't allow their true self and their hidden virtues to reveal themselves! I for one definitely will use more tact, thank you Jeannie Peneaux for the good lesson!
-Lizzy's thought process of how she can turn a situation to her advantage enlightening
What Displeased Me:
-It lacked pulse and heart in terms of Lizzy and Darcy, though I was fine with focusing on Lizzy as a witty character
Conclusion, Would I reread? Rating?:
Allow me to tell you, dear reader, that I have come to admire and respect Jeannie Peneaux, she is a wordsmith and I would imagine in actuality very like the heroine we so dearly adore.
I would be honored to read this work again or any others she graces us with.
Although the writing was great, I withhold the full 5 stars and reward 4, due to the shortness of the novel and lack of real conflict. I believe the author capable of a much more compelling JAFF, it would require but a bit of angst, passion, plot and conflict.
I am all anticipation for her future endeavors,
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? Very much so.
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? Yes, to the degree of excess in fact!
“Elizabeth, pleased with her morning work, skipped up the stairs to her bedchamber grinning. Once there she softly closed the door and flung herself on to her bed, buried her face in her pillow, and gave way to peals of uncontrollable laughter.”
I picked this JAFF out because I was intrigued with the premise but I admit I wasn’t expecting to be as impressed with the dialogue as I was, since novelette’s tend to lack in that front.
Fear not the occurrence of such disillusionment in this work, for the author honors Austen’s characters and writing with aplomb.
Synopsis:
They say you ought to write what you know, and Jeannie Peneaux did just that when she wrote Tact: A Pride and Prejudice Variation, for she positively exudes the trait, and it is reflected in her writing with masterful skill.
Lizzy is very much herself here, perhaps just more capable, see she has always known her ability with words extended past making smart quips or memorable comments, her ability to mould sentences extends to almost a gift of influencing others to her will. And like all heroes she learns early on she with great power comes great responsibility. She made an oath she would reign in her mischief and try to curve her abilities and use them for good, she does this for her dear sister Jane, as always.
Lizzy:
This Lizzy is charming, apt and confident. You will be familiar with her but also impressed by how much more she is capable of and how such a Lizzy could improve not only circumstance but those around her.
It stars off during Mr Collins proposal and then follows the events of P&P, but watch Lizzy turn her would be antagonists into supporting players due to her presenting the best version of herself and being kind to those around her! A lovely moral for all!
"If we wish to conquer undesirable emotional tendencies in ourselves, we must assiduously, and in the first instance cold-bloodedly, go through the outward motions of those contrary dispositions we prefer to cultivate." -William James
I for one really enjoyed Lizzy behavior being corrected, as sometimes I too feel like a farce when I try to be kind. I always suspected I was not naturally inclined to it but rather learning to mimic it. I was a bit of a selfish, spoiled only child, much like Mr Darcy, but my family teased and reprimanded it out of me.
Thank gad or I might be in need of a good set down. Mrs. Reynolds did observe that, " they who are good-natured when children are good-natured when they grow up." Thus Lizzy acting out she was kind, and unwittingly learning the habit until she actually was so, I found to be relatable.
The Hunsford Proposal received a particularly handsome twist in this telling, as Lizzy agreed with Darcy that her family was unsuitable as a way to politely rejecting him!
He had been successfully caught in the noose of his own pride. Merely by agreeing with him, she had refused his hand with his own reasoning. There could be no fault found in her logic; it was his own argument after all – how could a reasonable man be angry in the face of such kindly spoken words?
La, what a joke! To read Darcy's face! I imagined it something like this;
I found myself in fits of laughter at Lizzy’s wit and if you've read enough JAFF, you've noted by now that many authors are unable to display an ability to write witty rejoinders and often lean heavily on summarizing Lizzy is clever and funny but lack the words to prove it and thus leave you unsatisfied.
“Thank you, Colonel – I am so much more comfortable breaking rules when I can be sure that I will not have to bear reproach for it.”
What I enjoyed:
-Lizzy is savage i.e,
Elizabeth nearly lost her icy politeness when he offered to water her wine for her and responded with more sharpness than Mr. Collins would have desired, had he but been able to overhear from his position lower down the table.
“Thank you, Mr. Darcy, I am almost at the age of attaining my majority and have not needed to have my wine watered for many years now, but please,” and here she gave a comforting pat to his forearm that rested on the table, “should you wish to do so to yours, do not feel in the least bit ashamed of it. My own father, you know, suffers from gout occasionally so I realize that when gentlemen get older it is often necessary to not imbibe quite so much as they did in their youth.”
-Mr Collins becoming a good brother, all he needed was some faith and encouragement!
-Lizzy being a mastermind;
Elizabeth frowned too and opened her mouth but was forestalled by his raised finger. It spoke much for her honesty that she was more insulted by the suggestion that she was an amateur than she was that he thought her manipulative.
-Reflects that Lizzy looked down on others just as Darcy, if perhaps she had employed some tact she could have encouraged others to be their best self, let this be a lesson to us all, being dismissive of others around you doesn't allow their true self and their hidden virtues to reveal themselves! I for one definitely will use more tact, thank you Jeannie Peneaux for the good lesson!
-Lizzy's thought process of how she can turn a situation to her advantage enlightening
What Displeased Me:
-It lacked pulse and heart in terms of Lizzy and Darcy, though I was fine with focusing on Lizzy as a witty character
Conclusion, Would I reread? Rating?:
Allow me to tell you, dear reader, that I have come to admire and respect Jeannie Peneaux, she is a wordsmith and I would imagine in actuality very like the heroine we so dearly adore.
I would be honored to read this work again or any others she graces us with.
Although the writing was great, I withhold the full 5 stars and reward 4, due to the shortness of the novel and lack of real conflict. I believe the author capable of a much more compelling JAFF, it would require but a bit of angst, passion, plot and conflict.
I am all anticipation for her future endeavors,
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? Very much so.
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? Yes, to the degree of excess in fact!
March 4, 2022
Delightful
Reviewed in Canada on August 22, 2019
Wonderfully written (despite some dangling prepositions). I thoroughly enjoyed the humour and the non-canon twists the story took. Well done.
March 4, 2022 - Audiobook - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed this on audio as well. Katherine Anderson does a fine job, but I would have liked a bit more voice distinction between the male and female characters.
Reviewed in Canada on August 22, 2019
Wonderfully written (despite some dangling prepositions). I thoroughly enjoyed the humour and the non-canon twists the story took. Well done.
March 4, 2022 - Audiobook - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed this on audio as well. Katherine Anderson does a fine job, but I would have liked a bit more voice distinction between the male and female characters.
April 27, 2020
Who are these people?
What-if at a young age Lizzy had listened to her mother about trying not to hurt other people’s feeling with her quick tongue?
Well In this story she is everything proper. She has a little impertinence but for most of the time she holds her temper and speaks properly, as any gentlewoman of the bon ton would. Imagine Jane’s manners in Lizzy.
So the story is much like the original P&P except things happen differently given the changed Lizzy. Delightful story.
I am glad Jane Austen wrote Lizzy the way she did. She seemed the first feminist character while this Lizzy was more of a classic manipulator.
I recommend this story to anyone.
What-if at a young age Lizzy had listened to her mother about trying not to hurt other people’s feeling with her quick tongue?
Well In this story she is everything proper. She has a little impertinence but for most of the time she holds her temper and speaks properly, as any gentlewoman of the bon ton would. Imagine Jane’s manners in Lizzy.
So the story is much like the original P&P except things happen differently given the changed Lizzy. Delightful story.
I am glad Jane Austen wrote Lizzy the way she did. She seemed the first feminist character while this Lizzy was more of a classic manipulator.
I recommend this story to anyone.
September 4, 2019
This book was well written from the get go. I was instantly intrigued. Some of Elizabeth‘s wittiest lines for sure although at one point I wondered if Elizabeth was capable of anything but sarcasm. In this version Elizabeth has great command of her ability to use words to encourage and persuade. Her refusal of Collins is nothing short of fabulous. She is able to direct him to a different sister all the while keeping his good graces and forming a loving kinship with him. I like to Collins in this version. He had a back bone, he was nerdy but not ridiculous and he was a good husband to Mary and brother to Elizabeth. Darcy doesn’t have much page time before the Hunsford proposal but he does come across as an arrogant arse pretty quickly. In an off attempt to be protective he ends up preventing her from being able to go on her walks alone, comes across as extremely rude in all conversation and it is made known by the Colonel to Elizabeth of his separating Jane and Bingley. His proposal is one of his most arrogant and he expresses his desire that Elizabeth cut ties with her family. Elizabeth gives him a major sit down but in a way that makes him feel guilty. Darcy’s response was a little tedious for me ...I’m not much of a fan of a begging Darcy but he does set out to make things right instantly. He asks her if he is able to change her opinion of him and fix things between Jane and Bingley if she would consider a courtship and she reluctantly agrees to hoping that she’s going to be able to find a way out of it. Fast forward hundred pages she ends up at Pemberley with Georgianna and is agreeing to get to know Darcy and things come together nicely between them. Loved the dialogue ... solid 4 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2019
Probably closer to Miss Austen's Elizabeth
The writing is excellent. The twist to the story, unique. Everything is wonderfully accomplished including the pace and the individual outcomes. It is just a bit long winded and predictably perfect. This is, by design, an Elizabeth who has mastered her temper and inclinations toward outbursts. She maintains a calm and propriety that outshines even Jane while still earning credit for her wit, supposed vivacity and insightfulness. Darcy remains somewhat haughty and reserved throughout, establishing him as the perfect match and mate. So why four stars? Because there were no fireworks and if ever a story could have benefited from a wedding night, even implied, this is that story. Forgive my lack of tact, but there you have it.
The writing is excellent. The twist to the story, unique. Everything is wonderfully accomplished including the pace and the individual outcomes. It is just a bit long winded and predictably perfect. This is, by design, an Elizabeth who has mastered her temper and inclinations toward outbursts. She maintains a calm and propriety that outshines even Jane while still earning credit for her wit, supposed vivacity and insightfulness. Darcy remains somewhat haughty and reserved throughout, establishing him as the perfect match and mate. So why four stars? Because there were no fireworks and if ever a story could have benefited from a wedding night, even implied, this is that story. Forgive my lack of tact, but there you have it.
Read
June 21, 2021First try - DNF at 38%. Writing style was too civilised for my reading style.
Second try - After reading this author's Dear Nameless Stranger (which was fantastic) decided to try this one again. Still not a fan. It didn't have the heart that the other story did, and Elizabeth was too perfect, it came across as too cocky and manipulative to me.
Second try - After reading this author's Dear Nameless Stranger (which was fantastic) decided to try this one again. Still not a fan. It didn't have the heart that the other story did, and Elizabeth was too perfect, it came across as too cocky and manipulative to me.
October 20, 2022
Entertaining, humorous but a little dry. Every interaction of ODC is almost austere. Yes they are playful with each other but other than the kiss witnessed by Bingley, ODC did not display much in terms of passionate love for each other.
January 19, 2020
I can see why a lot of people would love this book but I found it a bit dull. Sorry!
May 11, 2021
Absolutely delightful book. Lizzy is wittier and more impertinent than usual. The affections between all family members are so well displayed. And Darcy’s recovery from snob and prideful man to perfectly gallant suitor well accomplished. Refreshing take on Lady Catherine - realistic and accepting for once.
Read
March 10, 2023DNF because I didn’t like this Lizzy. She doesn’t have tact, she’s just either lying, manipulative or a hypocrite. That’s not Jane Austen’s Lizzy.
July 25, 2023
One of the best turned out wholesome Collins I've read in variations. Also, Penaux has a way of writing sisterhood, I'm always wanting more of her writing.
October 16, 2025
With this much head-hopping and other errors, even the best tale can't get five stars. And the tale is scrumptious.
November 5, 2021
One of my favourite Jane Austen fanfics, it has the most plausibly-likeable versions of Mr. Collins it's ever been my pleasure to read.
November 19, 2021
I'm glad I stuck it out with this one, as I ended up liking it more than I expected.
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This is like those stories where one event changes the entire timeline. Mary marries Mr. Collins and brings a whole new multiverse into existence.
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I enjoyed Lydia's storyline a lot.
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This is like those stories where one event changes the entire timeline. Mary marries Mr. Collins and brings a whole new multiverse into existence.
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I enjoyed Lydia's storyline a lot.
January 22, 2022
4.5 stars
What a wonderfully smart, witty and well done variation.
There's something about the writing in this story that is so easy to sink into. And for a story that was less than 200 pages, it felt so perfectly complete. Really, this was just an incredible variation. Madame Austen would be proud, Jeannie Peneaux. You had a vision and you created it and I feel blessed just to get to experience it.
Virtually everything about this is just masterfully done. Every plot alteration was well planned out and made SO MUCH SENSE. It’s jaw dropping, truly, how this version of events stands on its own. This could’ve been the actual story and it would hold up just as well as the original.
Now to be fair, this was pretty low angst all things considered, and I like to be a little more emotionally wrought so that my heart gets rattled about in my rib cage for good measure just so I know it’s functioning and that it can still hurt and bleed. Not because I’m masochistic (but I may be a tad), but rather because you can’t truly appreciate the good in a story without the bad. But for a low angst tale that has a rather ingenious plot? This was aces.
What a solid length too. Some stories don’t offer enough, others dump entirely too much onto the reader expecting them to wade through it entirely, no matter how much time they waste doing it. This one knew where it was going and how long the journey should take to get there and that is just so commendable. And the fact that it’s also got a bit of a full circle moment going on too? Just grand.
I do wish we got to see more of Colonel Fitzwilliam. He had less of a role than I anticipated and he was missed. Charlotte’s lack of a marriage partner was also a bit sad. But Mr. Collins was an absolute JOY to experience - and I never even thought that was an option with his character, so let me tell you, I’m thoroughly impressed with the characterization. It’s tweaked from the original, but in a way that everyone’s personality shines out brilliantly. Even Lizzy as a massive manipulator of those around her was a change I welcomed because she used her tactics for good (for the most part - I haven’t forgotten she was often selfish with it as well). I loved the brushing aside of Wickham, because it fit with the rest of the plot and the slight changes in the others and how their interactions with him were altered. Lydia and to a lesser extent Kitty were still exuberant and lively, but learned some level of decorum to offset whenever they became overly so.
And the way Darcy wins Lizzy over? I was sold. This was so good. So goddamned good. Like truly just sublime in every way. I'm thoroughly impressed and will very likely nab a physical copy of this.
What a wonderfully smart, witty and well done variation.
There's something about the writing in this story that is so easy to sink into. And for a story that was less than 200 pages, it felt so perfectly complete. Really, this was just an incredible variation. Madame Austen would be proud, Jeannie Peneaux. You had a vision and you created it and I feel blessed just to get to experience it.
Virtually everything about this is just masterfully done. Every plot alteration was well planned out and made SO MUCH SENSE. It’s jaw dropping, truly, how this version of events stands on its own. This could’ve been the actual story and it would hold up just as well as the original.
Now to be fair, this was pretty low angst all things considered, and I like to be a little more emotionally wrought so that my heart gets rattled about in my rib cage for good measure just so I know it’s functioning and that it can still hurt and bleed. Not because I’m masochistic (but I may be a tad), but rather because you can’t truly appreciate the good in a story without the bad. But for a low angst tale that has a rather ingenious plot? This was aces.
What a solid length too. Some stories don’t offer enough, others dump entirely too much onto the reader expecting them to wade through it entirely, no matter how much time they waste doing it. This one knew where it was going and how long the journey should take to get there and that is just so commendable. And the fact that it’s also got a bit of a full circle moment going on too? Just grand.
I do wish we got to see more of Colonel Fitzwilliam. He had less of a role than I anticipated and he was missed. Charlotte’s lack of a marriage partner was also a bit sad. But Mr. Collins was an absolute JOY to experience - and I never even thought that was an option with his character, so let me tell you, I’m thoroughly impressed with the characterization. It’s tweaked from the original, but in a way that everyone’s personality shines out brilliantly. Even Lizzy as a massive manipulator of those around her was a change I welcomed because she used her tactics for good (for the most part - I haven’t forgotten she was often selfish with it as well). I loved the brushing aside of Wickham, because it fit with the rest of the plot and the slight changes in the others and how their interactions with him were altered. Lydia and to a lesser extent Kitty were still exuberant and lively, but learned some level of decorum to offset whenever they became overly so.
And the way Darcy wins Lizzy over? I was sold. This was so good. So goddamned good. Like truly just sublime in every way. I'm thoroughly impressed and will very likely nab a physical copy of this.
October 24, 2019
The reviews gave me hope that it would be better but I was disappointed. The story felt rushed and the personality of our favorites, Darcy and Elizabeth, were not done well. Darcy came across as rude and mean without any indication of him being humorous and taken the wrong way. Elizabeth did not take us along to explain how she went from utter dislike to loving him, it was just mentioned serval times without the growing love we expect. I did like that Darcy refused to take no for an answer and told Elizabeth that he wants to know what and how he can fix those things he has done wrong.
December 5, 2019
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, Elizabeth has much more tact as the title suggests. Also, the Bennet sisters are a much more tight knit group who all watch out for each other. For example, Elizabeth is able to turn Mr Collins towards her sister by insisting that she could not hurt one of her own.
This story features lots of word play as our dear couple finds their happily ever after.
This story features lots of word play as our dear couple finds their happily ever after.
June 30, 2021
5 *
What an adorable book! Each page sparkles with wit and charm. Jeannie Peneaux is one of my favorite authors, but I put this book aside for a long time, afraid of meeting with a not very good, manipulative version of Elizabeth. The stars came together and I decided to read.
First of all, I am very glad that my fears were in vain. Both the book and Lizzy turned out to be a huge pleasure! I was in awe with what Mr. Collins became after Lizzy's tactful treatment. The results of Lizzy's communication with Lady Catherine generally surpassed all expectations and turned out to be sheer delight. The disastrous Hunsford proposal turned into something definitely not catastrophic, but rather charming. Тhe relationship between Lizzy and Darcy reminds me of two of my favorite Shakespearean characters, Benedict and Beatrice, in a softened, "tactful" version, and for me this added to the attractiveness of the novella.
I will definitely reread this book more than once.
What an adorable book! Each page sparkles with wit and charm. Jeannie Peneaux is one of my favorite authors, but I put this book aside for a long time, afraid of meeting with a not very good, manipulative version of Elizabeth. The stars came together and I decided to read.
First of all, I am very glad that my fears were in vain. Both the book and Lizzy turned out to be a huge pleasure! I was in awe with what Mr. Collins became after Lizzy's tactful treatment. The results of Lizzy's communication with Lady Catherine generally surpassed all expectations and turned out to be sheer delight. The disastrous Hunsford proposal turned into something definitely not catastrophic, but rather charming. Тhe relationship between Lizzy and Darcy reminds me of two of my favorite Shakespearean characters, Benedict and Beatrice, in a softened, "tactful" version, and for me this added to the attractiveness of the novella.
I will definitely reread this book more than once.
October 13, 2021
I saw this recommended on a random social media post and knew I had to read this P&P story. Elizabeth has to navigate all of the delicate situations throughout the story using only her way with words to get what she wants without ruffling anyone's feathers. Great variation!
May 21, 2023
А що якби Ліззі навчилася стримувати емоції та використовувати слова, щоби злегка маніпулювати людьми? Вона відмовляє містеру Коллінзу так, що він геть не ображається і освідчується Мері. Зрештою навіть стає її улюбленим братом. Але відкрутитися від пропозиції містера Дарсі виявляється не так просто, хай хоч би як вона не старалась. Цікава варіація у стилі найшла коса на камінь.
February 22, 2024
Oh Elizabeth, you clever girl. Talented in manipulation, but uses her powers for good rather than evil.😈
October 4, 2024
First, it must be declared (though it should go without saying) that no adaptation of Pride and Prejudice can hold a candle to the original. But that said, Tact is a delightful imagining of just what might have changed in the novel if Elizabeth had chosen to refuse Mr. Collins with a little more tact.
Far and away my favorite Pride and Prejudice adaptation.
Far and away my favorite Pride and Prejudice adaptation.
March 7, 2020
Interesting concept, but didn't quite turn out the way I'd hoped. Because of her tact, Elizabeth frequently comes across as manipulative rather than sincere. Her tactfulness also seems to do away with a lot of the drama and deep feeling in the story. All of the people in the story appear to be caricatures of themselves.
The writing itself is a little confusing because words are often skipped or in the wrong order to promote ready understanding and a smooth reading experience.
I'm glad I read this through Kindle Unlimited and didn't need to go through the hassle of purchasing and then returning for a refund.
The writing itself is a little confusing because words are often skipped or in the wrong order to promote ready understanding and a smooth reading experience.
I'm glad I read this through Kindle Unlimited and didn't need to go through the hassle of purchasing and then returning for a refund.
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