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The Rogue's Widow
An Arrangement She Cannot Refuse. An Attachment He Cannot Deny.
Elizabeth Bennet never expected that answering an advertisement for a lady’s companion would result in almost immediate marriage and widowhood. Destitute and hopeless after her father’s death, she accepts the position as a means to provide a home for her family, but is daily baffled by the abrupt ways and inscrutable motives of her employer and benefactor, Mr Darcy.
Fitzwilliam Darcy had a simple plan: secure a steady companion for his younger sister Georgiana and a wife for his father’s dying ward, to prevent a neighbouring estate from falling into the hands of George Wickham. Elizabeth Bennet is the perfect answer… a little too perfect. As her sweetly impertinent character encourages Georgiana and wins the respect of the village, Darcy’s own heart begins to fall for the woman whom honour forbids him even to think of.
When a legal challenge brings into question Elizabeth’s rights to the estate, Darcy must find a way to mend old family breaches and reveal secrets better forgotten. Will he permit himself to reach for the one who holds his happiness? Or will events conspire to take her forever from his life?
The Rogue’s Widow is a clean Regency Variation of approximately 50,000 words.
Elizabeth Bennet never expected that answering an advertisement for a lady’s companion would result in almost immediate marriage and widowhood. Destitute and hopeless after her father’s death, she accepts the position as a means to provide a home for her family, but is daily baffled by the abrupt ways and inscrutable motives of her employer and benefactor, Mr Darcy.
Fitzwilliam Darcy had a simple plan: secure a steady companion for his younger sister Georgiana and a wife for his father’s dying ward, to prevent a neighbouring estate from falling into the hands of George Wickham. Elizabeth Bennet is the perfect answer… a little too perfect. As her sweetly impertinent character encourages Georgiana and wins the respect of the village, Darcy’s own heart begins to fall for the woman whom honour forbids him even to think of.
When a legal challenge brings into question Elizabeth’s rights to the estate, Darcy must find a way to mend old family breaches and reveal secrets better forgotten. Will he permit himself to reach for the one who holds his happiness? Or will events conspire to take her forever from his life?
The Rogue’s Widow is a clean Regency Variation of approximately 50,000 words.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 6, 2020
264 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Clarkston
29 books213 followersNicole Clarkston is a book lover and a happily married mom of three. Originally from Idaho, she now lives in Oregon with her own romantic hero, three kids who are taller than she is, and one very fat dog.
Nicole can be reached through Facebook at http://fb.me/NicoleClarkstonAuthor, Twitter @N_Clarkston, her blog at Goodreads.com, or her personal blog and website, NicoleClarkson.com.
Nicole can be reached through Facebook at http://fb.me/NicoleClarkstonAuthor, Twitter @N_Clarkston, her blog at Goodreads.com, or her personal blog and website, NicoleClarkson.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
April 30, 2025
There is a very old story about a mule-driver training a new addition to his team. His first action is to get a tree branch and hit the mule right between the eyes. An observer is appalled at the cruelty and questions the mule-driver. The answer: “first you have to get the mule’s attention."
I cannot agree with this method of mule training.
But I wonder if Nicole Clarkston might.
In the opening chapter of this book, the author hit me between the eyes and kept my attention to the end of the story.
I am not going to comment on the plot of this book. I will only say that if you enjoy JAFF; if you like a story a little out of the ordinary, you must read “The Rogue’s Widow.”
Just be sure to wear a safety helmet.
I cannot agree with this method of mule training.
But I wonder if Nicole Clarkston might.
In the opening chapter of this book, the author hit me between the eyes and kept my attention to the end of the story.
I am not going to comment on the plot of this book. I will only say that if you enjoy JAFF; if you like a story a little out of the ordinary, you must read “The Rogue’s Widow.”
Just be sure to wear a safety helmet.
March 7, 2020
I have loved all this author's stories. She is right up there in my favorite authors list. She provides angst in most, which I devour! This story has such. I received an ARC of this book with no strings attached.
We are immediately drawn in and this event is in the opening: marry a man condemned so as to change what is left in the wake of his death. (One of my favorite stories Shanna is based on this type of manipulation.) Sometimes it is for the man's "benefit" and sometimes it is his widow who wants to change her life's circumstances. As the title tells you...yes, Elizabeth becomes a widow. But, oh, the horror for us, the readers, she is now "Mrs. Wickham". Did not you know George has a brother? The only one Bernard Wickham hates more than Fitzwilliam Darcy is his brother, George, or so Darcy says.
The author's blurb and the other reviews give the prospective readers excellent summaries of this tale. This Darcy is very much a man in charge and he has it all planned out: not just this first event but then also what will happen next. Too bad people and his own senses do not quite cooperate.
Elizabeth's family is in dire circumstances following the death of Mr. Bennet: very close to the hedgerow that Mrs. Bennet bewailed. Jane has already taken a position and Elizabeth is interviewing for one. You will laugh as Darcy ramrods his plan and dictates to ODG. She is barely able to make him pause and explain what? who? why? as he stages the wedding. Yes, she will be a companion for his sister but this first.
And as the Bennet females find a home, together, neighbors and acquaintances crop up to disrupt Darcy's well laid plans. As he maps out Elizabeth's and his friend's future he discounts how charming he finds the lady. Can he ignore the electricity between them? Can he really expect Elizabeth just to take his word for it about that other brother? And then there are Georgiana's reactions upon Wickham being mentioned in her presence.
This is a story I will reread. I highly recommend it to all JAFF lovers.
We are immediately drawn in and this event is in the opening: marry a man condemned so as to change what is left in the wake of his death. (One of my favorite stories Shanna is based on this type of manipulation.) Sometimes it is for the man's "benefit" and sometimes it is his widow who wants to change her life's circumstances. As the title tells you...yes, Elizabeth becomes a widow. But, oh, the horror for us, the readers, she is now "Mrs. Wickham". Did not you know George has a brother? The only one Bernard Wickham hates more than Fitzwilliam Darcy is his brother, George, or so Darcy says.
The author's blurb and the other reviews give the prospective readers excellent summaries of this tale. This Darcy is very much a man in charge and he has it all planned out: not just this first event but then also what will happen next. Too bad people and his own senses do not quite cooperate.
Elizabeth's family is in dire circumstances following the death of Mr. Bennet: very close to the hedgerow that Mrs. Bennet bewailed. Jane has already taken a position and Elizabeth is interviewing for one. You will laugh as Darcy ramrods his plan and dictates to ODG. She is barely able to make him pause and explain what? who? why? as he stages the wedding. Yes, she will be a companion for his sister but this first.
And as the Bennet females find a home, together, neighbors and acquaintances crop up to disrupt Darcy's well laid plans. As he maps out Elizabeth's and his friend's future he discounts how charming he finds the lady. Can he ignore the electricity between them? Can he really expect Elizabeth just to take his word for it about that other brother? And then there are Georgiana's reactions upon Wickham being mentioned in her presence.
This is a story I will reread. I highly recommend it to all JAFF lovers.
March 6, 2020
“On the left side of a strong woman, stands a strong man; he is strengthened by her character.” –Ellen J. Barrier
Nicole Clarkston has a unique gift of taking a scene involving Darcy and Elizabeth and turning it, from one filled with tension, into one that is completely hilarious. The opening prologue was an absolute scream. I couldn’t help but laugh out loud at Darcy’s staccato tone as he talked at [instead of to] Miss Elizabeth Bennet during her interview for the position of companion to his younger sister. OMG! I was just as shocked and confused as Elizabeth as she journeyed toward reshaping her future and that of her family after the death of Mr. Bennet. As that picture began to take shape, I cringed right along with Elizabeth. OMG! Lizzy, what have you gotten yourself into?
“This man was a rogue, not because circumstances forced him to be a criminal but because he was born that way. He was probably conning his mother out of her milk the moment he could grin. He'd charm the clothes off a virgin in twenty minutes. And if the poor fool took him home, he'd drink her dad under the table, beguile her mother, charm her grandparents, and treat the girl to a night she'd never forget. In the morning, her dad would be sick with alcohol poisoning, the good silver would be missing together with the family car, and in a month, both the former virgin and her mother would be expecting.”
― Ilona Andrews, Fate's Edge
Wickham: the SBRB: but which one? OMG! There were two of them! What?? LA! Help us! Thank goodness, we didn’t have to deal with the elder brother very long as he was disgusting enough. It was the younger brother [George] that caused the most trouble for our dear couple. This was a smooth-talking, glib-tongued, low-life, bottom-dwelling slug. Oh-My-Gosh!! What a web of lies and half-truths he spun and Elizabeth listened to every single one of them. Run, you silly girl, run hard and as fast as you can; you don’t know to whom you are speaking. This spider whispered into her ear treachery and deceit of the cruelest kind and she began to question the integrity of her employer, Mr. Darcy. GRRR!!! At about my bedtime, I hit a part in the story that gave me nightmares. Seriously. Neither brother was worth the dust on Mr. Darcy’s boots, and yet, Elizabeth fell for the lies hook-line-and-sinker. LA!
“The strongest people are people who faced the toughest situations in life. People who are defeated by the toughest battles are stronger than those who have won by using the escape route!” –Israelmore Ayivor, Daily Drive 365
Secrets, surprises, and threats of scandal, just kept coming and I can’t mention a single one of them without giving a spoiler. At every turn of the page, I admired Darcy even more. This was amazing and such a creative story. Nicole is a genius. I LOVED it. I have read various parts of this and volunteered to read an ARC [Advanced Reader Copy] with no expectations of a review. I also preordered a copy as soon as it posted. I just had to express my pleasure with this story and I plan to read it again. Whew! Parts of it will scare the crap out of you one minute and then make you weak in the knees at such declarations of love. Heavy sigh. I simply adore a Darcy that is large-and-in-charge. Oh, my, goodness. I loved him. The chemistry between ODC was electric and even I felt the jolt. Of course, there could have been a short in my reading device; I may need to check on that. I highly recommend this. It is only 20 chapters and hard to put down once you start reading. The pacing was most excellent and well done. There were minimal errors. Rating PG17: mature subjects were discussed. Those brothers were disgusting.
Nicole Clarkston has a unique gift of taking a scene involving Darcy and Elizabeth and turning it, from one filled with tension, into one that is completely hilarious. The opening prologue was an absolute scream. I couldn’t help but laugh out loud at Darcy’s staccato tone as he talked at [instead of to] Miss Elizabeth Bennet during her interview for the position of companion to his younger sister. OMG! I was just as shocked and confused as Elizabeth as she journeyed toward reshaping her future and that of her family after the death of Mr. Bennet. As that picture began to take shape, I cringed right along with Elizabeth. OMG! Lizzy, what have you gotten yourself into?
“This man was a rogue, not because circumstances forced him to be a criminal but because he was born that way. He was probably conning his mother out of her milk the moment he could grin. He'd charm the clothes off a virgin in twenty minutes. And if the poor fool took him home, he'd drink her dad under the table, beguile her mother, charm her grandparents, and treat the girl to a night she'd never forget. In the morning, her dad would be sick with alcohol poisoning, the good silver would be missing together with the family car, and in a month, both the former virgin and her mother would be expecting.”
― Ilona Andrews, Fate's Edge
Wickham: the SBRB: but which one? OMG! There were two of them! What?? LA! Help us! Thank goodness, we didn’t have to deal with the elder brother very long as he was disgusting enough. It was the younger brother [George] that caused the most trouble for our dear couple. This was a smooth-talking, glib-tongued, low-life, bottom-dwelling slug. Oh-My-Gosh!! What a web of lies and half-truths he spun and Elizabeth listened to every single one of them. Run, you silly girl, run hard and as fast as you can; you don’t know to whom you are speaking. This spider whispered into her ear treachery and deceit of the cruelest kind and she began to question the integrity of her employer, Mr. Darcy. GRRR!!! At about my bedtime, I hit a part in the story that gave me nightmares. Seriously. Neither brother was worth the dust on Mr. Darcy’s boots, and yet, Elizabeth fell for the lies hook-line-and-sinker. LA!
“The strongest people are people who faced the toughest situations in life. People who are defeated by the toughest battles are stronger than those who have won by using the escape route!” –Israelmore Ayivor, Daily Drive 365
Secrets, surprises, and threats of scandal, just kept coming and I can’t mention a single one of them without giving a spoiler. At every turn of the page, I admired Darcy even more. This was amazing and such a creative story. Nicole is a genius. I LOVED it. I have read various parts of this and volunteered to read an ARC [Advanced Reader Copy] with no expectations of a review. I also preordered a copy as soon as it posted. I just had to express my pleasure with this story and I plan to read it again. Whew! Parts of it will scare the crap out of you one minute and then make you weak in the knees at such declarations of love. Heavy sigh. I simply adore a Darcy that is large-and-in-charge. Oh, my, goodness. I loved him. The chemistry between ODC was electric and even I felt the jolt. Of course, there could have been a short in my reading device; I may need to check on that. I highly recommend this. It is only 20 chapters and hard to put down once you start reading. The pacing was most excellent and well done. There were minimal errors. Rating PG17: mature subjects were discussed. Those brothers were disgusting.
April 13, 2020
See full review at https://austenprose.com/2020/04/13/th...
Elizabeth Bennet is in London interviewing for a position as a lady’s companion, and she meets Mr. Darcy, her prospective employer, for the first time. His behavior is even more arrogant and brusque than in the original Pride and Prejudice. He decides she’s right for the position and hires her on the spot.
…And now he's taking Elizabeth to the debtor’s prison to marry a resident there.
Wait. What??
Yup. It’s simple, really. Mr. Darcy is killing two birds with one stone.
The first reason is that man she’s to marry, Bernard Wickham, owns Corbett Lodge, a small, poorly maintained estate adjoining Pemberley. He’s in prison with not much time left to live—the direct result of a depraved life. Bernard’s one brief scene in Chapter One proves this guy doesn’t deserve any pity. The big news is that George Wickham, his younger brother, is currently next in line to inherit Corbett Lodge. Darcy sure can’t have THAT.
As it happens, Bernard hates his kid brother even more than he hates Darcy—which really is saying something, since it was Darcy who’d bought up his debts and had Bernard imprisoned. At least Darcy is putting out some coin to make his jail time slightly less unbearable. Consequently, Bernard agrees to get hitched to the lady of Darcy’s choice in order to keep the money flowing and to spite his brother George. With no entail on Corbett Lodge, SHE will inherit it when he inevitably throws off his mortal coil.
Meanwhile, Georgiana has been without a companion ever since Mrs. Younge got sacked for conspiring with George Wickham at Ramsgate the previous summer. All Darcy needs is an unattached, gently bred, kind applicant desperate enough to do anything—including marrying a dying rogue—to get the job.
As you probably have deduced, Mr. Bennet has died, leaving his wife and daughters in dire financial straits. Between that and the favorable impression she makes, Elizabeth Bennet is the easy choice to be offered this golden opportunity. Knowing she has no choice, she reluctantly agrees, asking Darcy, “And I have your word as a gentleman that you will treat me with dignity?” to which he responds, “Miss Bennet! What do you take me for, your future husband?”
Chapter One ends with one of the strangest weddings you will ever read, and Elizabeth becomes Mrs. Wickham. It’s a heck of an opening salvo to set up the rest of the story.
Darcy proves to be an odd employer but a generous one—sure enough, Elizabeth soon inherits Corbett Lodge (which Darcy has repaired at his own expense), and her mother and sisters move in. He also provides them with a small household staff, Elizabeth has her Sundays free to spend with them, and she’s fitted for a nice new wardrobe. Her job itself is a dream. She gets along beautifully with Georgiana and the staff, and Pemberley is a wonderful place to live, both inside and out.
But then there's Mr. Darcy himself. She finds herself responding to his haughty and abrupt manners with impertinent replies. To Elizabeth’s surprise, he doesn’t seem to mind and even responds in kind. Darcy’s impression of Elizabeth is more positive, and he's increasingly working to fight his attraction to her.
The plot moves on, and additional characters help drive the story forward. Darcy introduces Mr. Bingley to the Bennets as a potential love interest…for Elizabeth! Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy are on the outs, and the reason is surprising. It actually has something to do with George Wickham, who enters the story understandably eager to make the acquaintance of his new sister-in-law and her family.
The unusual plot twists in The Rogue’s Widow make for an engaging read. Ms. Clarkston balances the light and dark elements of the story perfectly. She makes the verbal skirmishes between Darcy and Elizabeth great fun and their attraction to each other palpable. It’s lovely that they get a LOT of page time together. Other characters are consistent with what we’d expect from Jane Austen’s creations under these circumstances. I do think Darcy would have told Georgiana’s companion about the family’s history with Wickham, and Darcy’s “matter of honor” that prevents him from offering marriage to Elizabeth is a bit of a stretch. However, the quality of the storytelling had me completely immersed, so those observations never occurred to me as I was reading.
If you’re stuck home right now enduring “social distancing,” this is a great book to escape into.
I received an ARC with no promise of a favorable review
Elizabeth Bennet is in London interviewing for a position as a lady’s companion, and she meets Mr. Darcy, her prospective employer, for the first time. His behavior is even more arrogant and brusque than in the original Pride and Prejudice. He decides she’s right for the position and hires her on the spot.
…And now he's taking Elizabeth to the debtor’s prison to marry a resident there.
Wait. What??
Yup. It’s simple, really. Mr. Darcy is killing two birds with one stone.
The first reason is that man she’s to marry, Bernard Wickham, owns Corbett Lodge, a small, poorly maintained estate adjoining Pemberley. He’s in prison with not much time left to live—the direct result of a depraved life. Bernard’s one brief scene in Chapter One proves this guy doesn’t deserve any pity. The big news is that George Wickham, his younger brother, is currently next in line to inherit Corbett Lodge. Darcy sure can’t have THAT.
As it happens, Bernard hates his kid brother even more than he hates Darcy—which really is saying something, since it was Darcy who’d bought up his debts and had Bernard imprisoned. At least Darcy is putting out some coin to make his jail time slightly less unbearable. Consequently, Bernard agrees to get hitched to the lady of Darcy’s choice in order to keep the money flowing and to spite his brother George. With no entail on Corbett Lodge, SHE will inherit it when he inevitably throws off his mortal coil.
Meanwhile, Georgiana has been without a companion ever since Mrs. Younge got sacked for conspiring with George Wickham at Ramsgate the previous summer. All Darcy needs is an unattached, gently bred, kind applicant desperate enough to do anything—including marrying a dying rogue—to get the job.
As you probably have deduced, Mr. Bennet has died, leaving his wife and daughters in dire financial straits. Between that and the favorable impression she makes, Elizabeth Bennet is the easy choice to be offered this golden opportunity. Knowing she has no choice, she reluctantly agrees, asking Darcy, “And I have your word as a gentleman that you will treat me with dignity?” to which he responds, “Miss Bennet! What do you take me for, your future husband?”
Chapter One ends with one of the strangest weddings you will ever read, and Elizabeth becomes Mrs. Wickham. It’s a heck of an opening salvo to set up the rest of the story.
Darcy proves to be an odd employer but a generous one—sure enough, Elizabeth soon inherits Corbett Lodge (which Darcy has repaired at his own expense), and her mother and sisters move in. He also provides them with a small household staff, Elizabeth has her Sundays free to spend with them, and she’s fitted for a nice new wardrobe. Her job itself is a dream. She gets along beautifully with Georgiana and the staff, and Pemberley is a wonderful place to live, both inside and out.
But then there's Mr. Darcy himself. She finds herself responding to his haughty and abrupt manners with impertinent replies. To Elizabeth’s surprise, he doesn’t seem to mind and even responds in kind. Darcy’s impression of Elizabeth is more positive, and he's increasingly working to fight his attraction to her.
The plot moves on, and additional characters help drive the story forward. Darcy introduces Mr. Bingley to the Bennets as a potential love interest…for Elizabeth! Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy are on the outs, and the reason is surprising. It actually has something to do with George Wickham, who enters the story understandably eager to make the acquaintance of his new sister-in-law and her family.
The unusual plot twists in The Rogue’s Widow make for an engaging read. Ms. Clarkston balances the light and dark elements of the story perfectly. She makes the verbal skirmishes between Darcy and Elizabeth great fun and their attraction to each other palpable. It’s lovely that they get a LOT of page time together. Other characters are consistent with what we’d expect from Jane Austen’s creations under these circumstances. I do think Darcy would have told Georgiana’s companion about the family’s history with Wickham, and Darcy’s “matter of honor” that prevents him from offering marriage to Elizabeth is a bit of a stretch. However, the quality of the storytelling had me completely immersed, so those observations never occurred to me as I was reading.
If you’re stuck home right now enduring “social distancing,” this is a great book to escape into.
I received an ARC with no promise of a favorable review
March 30, 2020
At what point does a P&P what if go so far off canon that it becomes something else entirely?
This P&P inspired story alters everything. Bingley doesn't come to Meryton, Mr. Bennet dies before the story begins, George Wickham has a older but equally reprehensible brother. Lizzy and Jane go into service. Anne marries Col. Fitzwilliam
Lizzy ends up as Georgiana's companion and Wickham's older brother's widow.
I am not sure what exactly kept me from loving this book. I may have been that I have read too many 'seriously altered' P&Ps in a row. It could be that the plot had so many twists and turns that I was just overwhelmed.
This P&P inspired story alters everything. Bingley doesn't come to Meryton, Mr. Bennet dies before the story begins, George Wickham has a older but equally reprehensible brother. Lizzy and Jane go into service. Anne marries Col. Fitzwilliam
Lizzy ends up as Georgiana's companion and Wickham's older brother's widow.
I am not sure what exactly kept me from loving this book. I may have been that I have read too many 'seriously altered' P&Ps in a row. It could be that the plot had so many twists and turns that I was just overwhelmed.
March 6, 2020
"What had she just done?" (quote from the book)
Gather your wits and your weapons as you try to keep up with Mr. Darcy! He has a plan, well actually several plans, and you don't want to be left behind when he sets them in motion.
I have yet to see such a unique plot line, but then I shouldn't when it comes from the quill of the ever talented Nicole Clarkston. In this variation, Mr. Darcy has a knack for controlling everyone's life along with the ability to say as little as possible or as bluntly as possible.
"...he would leap into one subject after another with all the grace and tact of an axe felling a great oak." (quote from the book)
But let's not forget the wolf-in-sheep-clothing, George Wickham! Oh he is smooth, charming and so solicitous...like a snake basking in the sun until he strikes. Elizabeth may fall for his 'woe is me' story, but things are not adding up.
"A lady of poise and elegance, and yet raw, simple humanity lay close upon the surface. There was a gentleness in her, for all her tart speech and irreverence. And she was clever...far too clever. (quote from the book)
This is a fast-paced story that I devoured. And as Darcy fights his attraction to Elizabeth, we have an epic confrontation that brings about a letter. Oh the angst! You are wondering how they could ever reconcile considering all the secrets that just keep coming.
I loved it all especially the banter, the chemistry and the slow burn between Elizabeth and Darcy. All they needed was that one little spark to light the flame.
I highly recommend this sublime story!
I must say how much I love the cover of this book (Janet Taylor)! It suits the story perfectly.
I received an ARC of this book with no expectation for a review, but I will be buying the paperback for my personal library!
Gather your wits and your weapons as you try to keep up with Mr. Darcy! He has a plan, well actually several plans, and you don't want to be left behind when he sets them in motion.
I have yet to see such a unique plot line, but then I shouldn't when it comes from the quill of the ever talented Nicole Clarkston. In this variation, Mr. Darcy has a knack for controlling everyone's life along with the ability to say as little as possible or as bluntly as possible.
"...he would leap into one subject after another with all the grace and tact of an axe felling a great oak." (quote from the book)
But let's not forget the wolf-in-sheep-clothing, George Wickham! Oh he is smooth, charming and so solicitous...like a snake basking in the sun until he strikes. Elizabeth may fall for his 'woe is me' story, but things are not adding up.
"A lady of poise and elegance, and yet raw, simple humanity lay close upon the surface. There was a gentleness in her, for all her tart speech and irreverence. And she was clever...far too clever. (quote from the book)
This is a fast-paced story that I devoured. And as Darcy fights his attraction to Elizabeth, we have an epic confrontation that brings about a letter. Oh the angst! You are wondering how they could ever reconcile considering all the secrets that just keep coming.
I loved it all especially the banter, the chemistry and the slow burn between Elizabeth and Darcy. All they needed was that one little spark to light the flame.
I highly recommend this sublime story!
I must say how much I love the cover of this book (Janet Taylor)! It suits the story perfectly.
I received an ARC of this book with no expectation for a review, but I will be buying the paperback for my personal library!
March 22, 2020
Original plot
Story is pretty far off of canon so the reader can enjoy not knowing for sure what’s going to happen. Darcy is not the whining, guilty, disdainful of others. More of a take charge kind of guy. Nice change. Very well written, quite the page turner. I recommend the book highly.
Story is pretty far off of canon so the reader can enjoy not knowing for sure what’s going to happen. Darcy is not the whining, guilty, disdainful of others. More of a take charge kind of guy. Nice change. Very well written, quite the page turner. I recommend the book highly.
October 26, 2022
I forgot who wrote this and as I was reading it, I was so excited at how much I was enjoying the reading. Then I finished and saw it was NC! Not surprising.
A shortish novel, but well thought out. For all it being short, I didn't feel there were any real loose ends.
Reread as an audiobook, just as good!
A shortish novel, but well thought out. For all it being short, I didn't feel there were any real loose ends.
Reread as an audiobook, just as good!
May 25, 2024
Finished my Reread, let me tell you dear Readers, I still love the book!
I don‘t regret the 5 hours I spent on listening. First of all, Harry Frost is the narrator, so who would actually complain? He‘s brilliant!!
Well I tell you something about the characters now, even though I rated 5 stars, I didn‘t really liked Elizabeth. Complaining the whole time about her employer, who in fact was exceedingly generous with her. Don‘t get me wrong, she had some good witty remarks and all but playing the martyr for her family so that Mummy Bennet + other sisters can live off on Elizabeth‘s income?
Darcy was a control freak but in a witty manner so that it didn‘t bother me. I loved that he didn‘t do everything on his own at some point but enlisted the help of the Colonel and Bingley even. Well done!
- Clean Content
- Around 5 hours
- Middle Angst
- brilliantly Narrated
I don‘t regret the 5 hours I spent on listening. First of all, Harry Frost is the narrator, so who would actually complain? He‘s brilliant!!
Well I tell you something about the characters now, even though I rated 5 stars, I didn‘t really liked Elizabeth. Complaining the whole time about her employer, who in fact was exceedingly generous with her. Don‘t get me wrong, she had some good witty remarks and all but playing the martyr for her family so that Mummy Bennet + other sisters can live off on Elizabeth‘s income?
Darcy was a control freak but in a witty manner so that it didn‘t bother me. I loved that he didn‘t do everything on his own at some point but enlisted the help of the Colonel and Bingley even. Well done!
- Clean Content
- Around 5 hours
- Middle Angst
- brilliantly Narrated
September 3, 2020
There are some books which once you finish them will make your heart brim with happiness and satisfaction. This is one of them. A perfectly wonderful book, so different from canon. I loved both Darcy and Elizabeth in this book. Darcy is more talkative and Elizabeth is more impertinent, a delicious combination. Also, my most favorite thing, this book has lots of D&E time and everone else just rides along. The only thing I could've wished for was some more pages but A good book should always leave you wanting, IMHO.
March 8, 2020
Avid Reader
A delightful read. Darcy has an illegitimate half-brother who is the product of a married man who raped his mother when his mother and father became engaged. The senior Darcy called Lord Dewhurst out and won making the man responsible for the unborn son who was given to the Wickham family as soon as he was born. George Wickham was born three years later. The money that the senior Darcy received from Lord Dewhurst purchased an estate three miles from Pemberly called Corbet. Darcy had Elizabeth marry the dying Bernard Wickham, so that George Wickham would not inherit his estate. Although it was not as large as Longbourn, it still had eight tenants. Jane had worked as a governess for two years and was more than happy to relocate to Derbyshire where she eventually meets Mr. Bingley. Elizabeth works as Georgina's companion until she doesn't. Darcy and Elizabeth have a hard won HEA.
A delightful read. Darcy has an illegitimate half-brother who is the product of a married man who raped his mother when his mother and father became engaged. The senior Darcy called Lord Dewhurst out and won making the man responsible for the unborn son who was given to the Wickham family as soon as he was born. George Wickham was born three years later. The money that the senior Darcy received from Lord Dewhurst purchased an estate three miles from Pemberly called Corbet. Darcy had Elizabeth marry the dying Bernard Wickham, so that George Wickham would not inherit his estate. Although it was not as large as Longbourn, it still had eight tenants. Jane had worked as a governess for two years and was more than happy to relocate to Derbyshire where she eventually meets Mr. Bingley. Elizabeth works as Georgina's companion until she doesn't. Darcy and Elizabeth have a hard won HEA.
March 29, 2020
This is something really different.... Elizabeth first meets Darcy at Pemberley when she is applying for a job following Mr Bennnets death. Things take an unexpected turn when she learns that not only is she going to be Ms Darcys companion, Mr Darcy is going to arrange her marriage to Bernard Wickham, currently in prison so she can inherit rather than George Wickham when Bernard dies. Why would Mr Darcy want this? Is George Wickham going to take this lightly?? Hell no!!
This Darcy is competent, complicated and soon in love with Elizabeth but cannot have her. Elizabeth doesn't know what to make of him but knows she is attracted to him and feels safe with him. Their relationship is quite complex but has depth almost straight away. This tale itself is quite complex - there is illigitmacy, duels, forced marriage, family discord, kidnap, and confrontation. But it's a short book.... I read it in one sitting. This is a pretty epic tale that has a fast, but not rushed pace... but I feel a little dissatisfied with the end which I though was too quick and straight forward considering the journey there!
Nicole Clarkston is definately one if my favourite authors in this genre and this is another great book from her!
This Darcy is competent, complicated and soon in love with Elizabeth but cannot have her. Elizabeth doesn't know what to make of him but knows she is attracted to him and feels safe with him. Their relationship is quite complex but has depth almost straight away. This tale itself is quite complex - there is illigitmacy, duels, forced marriage, family discord, kidnap, and confrontation. But it's a short book.... I read it in one sitting. This is a pretty epic tale that has a fast, but not rushed pace... but I feel a little dissatisfied with the end which I though was too quick and straight forward considering the journey there!
Nicole Clarkston is definately one if my favourite authors in this genre and this is another great book from her!
March 24, 2020
4.5⭐️ What a unique premise and wonderful story written from one of my favorite JAFF authors.
I love the last few paragraphs of the story. Definitely swoon worthy and a bit hot and heavy. (Clean- no mature content)
Would have love a bit more background and history of the Wickham brothers growing up and their resentment of each other and also the situation with Anne DeBough and Colonel Fitzwilliam/Darcy situation.
I love the last few paragraphs of the story. Definitely swoon worthy and a bit hot and heavy. (Clean- no mature content)
Would have love a bit more background and history of the Wickham brothers growing up and their resentment of each other and also the situation with Anne DeBough and Colonel Fitzwilliam/Darcy situation.
March 28, 2020
The first chapter of The Rogue’s Widow is so interesting, different and gripping that I could not rest until I read more!
In a time when writing a regency JAFF story that is captivating yet not repetitive is a hard job, Nicole Clarkston must be praised for once more being able to develop a story where the characters are true to themselves, but the reader is still surprised with the upcoming events and dialogues.
In The Rogue’s Widow the main characters develop a strong and intimate relationship that will captivate readers. They will always be proper as this is a clean romance, but the characters develop a profound understanding of one another and a chemistry that is irresistible. Their dialogues will be witty and playful, and their intimacy will be visible even in a room full of people.
Darcy and Elizabeth’s dialogues and relationship was definitely one of the reasons I loved this book so much. Nicole Clarkston’s writing style is captivating and she created yet another unforgettable romance.
There are several refreshing changes in the secondary characters stories, but they will not take much page time, with most of the scenes being dedicated to either Darcy or Elizabeth.
Another aspect I loved about this book was the surprise effect that Nicole Clarkston achieved towards the end of the story. The reader may think he knows the truth about Bernard Wickham, but I doubt anyone will correctly guess it. It was the first time I ever saw this done in JAFF, and once more Nicole Clarkston must be congratulated by her courage and skillfulness.
The Rogue’s Widow is amongst my favourite reads this year and it is a wonderful romance I recommend to any readers. It is a very romantic story with low angst but with an innovative and captivating plot that will keep the reader turning the pages until he sees the words The End.
By the way, have you seen the cover? Isn’t it magnificent? I love the colours; Elizabeth’s expression and the cottage that made me feel I was inside the story once more.
In a time when writing a regency JAFF story that is captivating yet not repetitive is a hard job, Nicole Clarkston must be praised for once more being able to develop a story where the characters are true to themselves, but the reader is still surprised with the upcoming events and dialogues.
In The Rogue’s Widow the main characters develop a strong and intimate relationship that will captivate readers. They will always be proper as this is a clean romance, but the characters develop a profound understanding of one another and a chemistry that is irresistible. Their dialogues will be witty and playful, and their intimacy will be visible even in a room full of people.
Darcy and Elizabeth’s dialogues and relationship was definitely one of the reasons I loved this book so much. Nicole Clarkston’s writing style is captivating and she created yet another unforgettable romance.
There are several refreshing changes in the secondary characters stories, but they will not take much page time, with most of the scenes being dedicated to either Darcy or Elizabeth.
Another aspect I loved about this book was the surprise effect that Nicole Clarkston achieved towards the end of the story. The reader may think he knows the truth about Bernard Wickham, but I doubt anyone will correctly guess it. It was the first time I ever saw this done in JAFF, and once more Nicole Clarkston must be congratulated by her courage and skillfulness.
The Rogue’s Widow is amongst my favourite reads this year and it is a wonderful romance I recommend to any readers. It is a very romantic story with low angst but with an innovative and captivating plot that will keep the reader turning the pages until he sees the words The End.
By the way, have you seen the cover? Isn’t it magnificent? I love the colours; Elizabeth’s expression and the cottage that made me feel I was inside the story once more.
May 17, 2021
Enjoyable from Cover to Cover
Reviewed in Canada on March 6, 2020
Nicole Clarkston is a favorite JAFF author and this story does not disappoint. From the beautiful cover and the opening pages, she draws you in to another unique variation and maintains your attention to the last page. Wickham.... wait! Two Wickhams? How can it be? Elizabeth is impertinent and a commanding Darcy has a bit of snark. I loved the way he has his way with George. Brilliant! Read it, dear reader. You will not be disappointed.
May 16, 2021 - Audiobook
Outstanding narration by Harry Frost. Most enjoyable!
Reviewed in Canada on March 6, 2020
Nicole Clarkston is a favorite JAFF author and this story does not disappoint. From the beautiful cover and the opening pages, she draws you in to another unique variation and maintains your attention to the last page. Wickham.... wait! Two Wickhams? How can it be? Elizabeth is impertinent and a commanding Darcy has a bit of snark. I loved the way he has his way with George. Brilliant! Read it, dear reader. You will not be disappointed.
May 16, 2021 - Audiobook
Outstanding narration by Harry Frost. Most enjoyable!
June 15, 2025
Novel approach
An ingenious narrative that defies conventional storytelling, presenting a refreshingly unique encounter between protagonists and weaving an irresistibly captivating plot that keeps readers thoroughly enthralled.
An ingenious narrative that defies conventional storytelling, presenting a refreshingly unique encounter between protagonists and weaving an irresistibly captivating plot that keeps readers thoroughly enthralled.
April 29, 2025
I really liked this one. Nice!
Reread: This book was fun.
Reread: This book was fun.
March 20, 2020
This Pride and Prejudice variation starts out with a shock and moves on from there. Mr Bennet has died and Elizabeth is looking for work. She finds herself in the office of Fitzwilliam Darcy, whom she has never met before. She finds herself married and traveling to Pemberley in short order, with a home for her mother and sisters.
The interaction between the characters is so much fun. They practically antagonize each other on purpose. The extra characters are add just the right touches to the story. The little mysteries and secrets keep the story moving to a happily ever after to be proud of.
The interaction between the characters is so much fun. They practically antagonize each other on purpose. The extra characters are add just the right touches to the story. The little mysteries and secrets keep the story moving to a happily ever after to be proud of.
August 19, 2020
Interesting
Liked the story interesting but the villains did not get their due. I wanted to see an epilogue of maybe give years later, or something. Good book!!
Liked the story interesting but the villains did not get their due. I wanted to see an epilogue of maybe give years later, or something. Good book!!
March 7, 2020
As always Nicole has pulled it off
Loved
it ...... well done !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I MUST SAY FOR AN OFF THE CUFF BOOK WELL CAN'T WAIT FOR ANOTHER !!!!!!
Loved
it ...... well done !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I MUST SAY FOR AN OFF THE CUFF BOOK WELL CAN'T WAIT FOR ANOTHER !!!!!!
March 5, 2021
4.5 rounded to 5
I have never read any of Jane Austen's book before and it has been years since I watched Pride and Prejudice movie so I cannot remember anything about the plot which is why I don't know how much of this book is similar to the original but nevertheless, I loved it so much. The banter between Elizabeth and Darcy made me smile all the time.
I have never read any of Jane Austen's book before and it has been years since I watched Pride and Prejudice movie so I cannot remember anything about the plot which is why I don't know how much of this book is similar to the original but nevertheless, I loved it so much. The banter between Elizabeth and Darcy made me smile all the time.
June 27, 2021
3.5 round up to 4
An interesting story but completely different from canon. The language is beautiful in this story. At times I couldn’t help but feel a certain similarity to Jane Eyre (perhaps due to the similar governess story line but more it was the language and sense of the atmosphere).
Mr Bennett has died and Mr Collins and Charlotte have turned the family out of Longbourn.
Jane is a governess for a family, we don’t hear much about her until later in the story.
Elizabeth needs to take work as a lady’s companion (to Georgiana) and in the process Mr Darcy makes her an offer she can’t refuse: security, money and a home for her mother and sisters.
No, Darcy does not ask her to marry him. Darcy asks Elizabeth to marry George Wickham’s brother, Bernard, who is at death’s door from syphilis (the Frenchman’s disease as described in the novel). In marrying Bernard, Elizabeth aids Darcy in thwarting George Wickham and preventing him from inheriting Corbett Lodge.
Darcy comes to admire Elizabeth yet his sense of honor prevents him from pursuing a relationship with Elizabeth.
A few complex relationships in this story:
Bernard is Darcy’s brother (same mother, different fathers)
George suspects that Bernard and Darcy are brothers and tries to blackmail Darcy with his supposed knowledge.
Colonel Fitzwilliam marries his cousin, Anne, and there is some discord in their relationship.
Colonel Fitzwilliam’s sister, Sophie, wants Darcy but Darcy’s having none of it.
Lydia runs away with Wickham and Darcy saves the day again.
Nicole Clarkston is one of my favorite authors; this was very good but for some reason I didn’t love it despite the originality of the story.
An interesting story but completely different from canon. The language is beautiful in this story. At times I couldn’t help but feel a certain similarity to Jane Eyre (perhaps due to the similar governess story line but more it was the language and sense of the atmosphere).
Mr Bennett has died and Mr Collins and Charlotte have turned the family out of Longbourn.
Jane is a governess for a family, we don’t hear much about her until later in the story.
Elizabeth needs to take work as a lady’s companion (to Georgiana) and in the process Mr Darcy makes her an offer she can’t refuse: security, money and a home for her mother and sisters.
No, Darcy does not ask her to marry him. Darcy asks Elizabeth to marry George Wickham’s brother, Bernard, who is at death’s door from syphilis (the Frenchman’s disease as described in the novel). In marrying Bernard, Elizabeth aids Darcy in thwarting George Wickham and preventing him from inheriting Corbett Lodge.
Darcy comes to admire Elizabeth yet his sense of honor prevents him from pursuing a relationship with Elizabeth.
A few complex relationships in this story:
Bernard is Darcy’s brother (same mother, different fathers)
George suspects that Bernard and Darcy are brothers and tries to blackmail Darcy with his supposed knowledge.
Colonel Fitzwilliam marries his cousin, Anne, and there is some discord in their relationship.
Colonel Fitzwilliam’s sister, Sophie, wants Darcy but Darcy’s having none of it.
Lydia runs away with Wickham and Darcy saves the day again.
Nicole Clarkston is one of my favorite authors; this was very good but for some reason I didn’t love it despite the originality of the story.
January 23, 2025
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. Previously Published as The Rogue's Widow by Nicole Clarkston.
An arrangement she cannot refuse. Elizabeth Bennet never expected that answering an advertisement for a lady’s companion would result in almost immediate marriage and widowhood. Destitute and hopeless after her father’s death, she accepts the position as a means to provide a home for her family, but is daily baffled by the abrupt ways and inscrutable motives of her employer and benefactor, Mr Darcy.
An attachment he cannot deny. Fitzwilliam Darcy had a simple plan, secure a steady companion for his younger sister Georgiana and a wife for his father’s dying ward, to prevent a neighbouring estate from falling into the hands of George Wickham. Elizabeth Bennet is the perfect answer, a little too perfect. As her sweetly impertinent character encourages Georgiana and wins the respect of the village, Darcy’s own heart begins to fall for the woman whom honour forbids him even to think of.
When a legal challenge brings into question Elizabeth’s rights to the estate, Darcy must find a way to mend old family breaches and reveal secrets better forgotten. Will he permit himself to reach for the one who holds his happiness, or will events conspire to take her forever from his life? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. Previously Published as The Rogue's Widow by Nicole Clarkston.
An arrangement she cannot refuse. Elizabeth Bennet never expected that answering an advertisement for a lady’s companion would result in almost immediate marriage and widowhood. Destitute and hopeless after her father’s death, she accepts the position as a means to provide a home for her family, but is daily baffled by the abrupt ways and inscrutable motives of her employer and benefactor, Mr Darcy.
An attachment he cannot deny. Fitzwilliam Darcy had a simple plan, secure a steady companion for his younger sister Georgiana and a wife for his father’s dying ward, to prevent a neighbouring estate from falling into the hands of George Wickham. Elizabeth Bennet is the perfect answer, a little too perfect. As her sweetly impertinent character encourages Georgiana and wins the respect of the village, Darcy’s own heart begins to fall for the woman whom honour forbids him even to think of.
When a legal challenge brings into question Elizabeth’s rights to the estate, Darcy must find a way to mend old family breaches and reveal secrets better forgotten. Will he permit himself to reach for the one who holds his happiness, or will events conspire to take her forever from his life? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
March 25, 2020
Wonderful
Calling this a variation is a stretch, as there is no resemblance to the original P&P except the names, and the location of Pemberly. Even the character of Darcy is almost unrecognizable, particularly in the beginning when he is first meeting Elizabeth and arranging to hire her for a very peculiar purpose. In fact, I deducted a star because of the very odd behavior exhibited by Darcy towards Elizabeth on their first meeting, behavior lacking any degree of rationality or sensibility.
In order not to spoil the premise, I'll only say that Darcy hires Elizabeth to be a companion to his sister, and for another strange and mysterious purpose. Elizabeth, whose father has died, is fairly desperate for this position, which will allow her to take care of her remaining family. The Darcy in this book recognizes his strong attraction to Elizabeth fairly quickly, so there isn't the lengthy period of hostility that the original has.
Wickham is the sole villain in the story, but there are a lot of twists to his backstory, and more characters in league with him to complicate matters.
I love this author. She is a very talented writer and storyteller, and she has a stellar proofing team, as I could find very few editing errors. The story grabs you from the very start, and has drama, mystery, suspense, and wonderful romance. I recommend it highly.
Calling this a variation is a stretch, as there is no resemblance to the original P&P except the names, and the location of Pemberly. Even the character of Darcy is almost unrecognizable, particularly in the beginning when he is first meeting Elizabeth and arranging to hire her for a very peculiar purpose. In fact, I deducted a star because of the very odd behavior exhibited by Darcy towards Elizabeth on their first meeting, behavior lacking any degree of rationality or sensibility.
In order not to spoil the premise, I'll only say that Darcy hires Elizabeth to be a companion to his sister, and for another strange and mysterious purpose. Elizabeth, whose father has died, is fairly desperate for this position, which will allow her to take care of her remaining family. The Darcy in this book recognizes his strong attraction to Elizabeth fairly quickly, so there isn't the lengthy period of hostility that the original has.
Wickham is the sole villain in the story, but there are a lot of twists to his backstory, and more characters in league with him to complicate matters.
I love this author. She is a very talented writer and storyteller, and she has a stellar proofing team, as I could find very few editing errors. The story grabs you from the very start, and has drama, mystery, suspense, and wonderful romance. I recommend it highly.
May 18, 2020
This is a Pride and Prejudice variation that veers farther from the original story than many of them do. It begins with Elizabeth Bennet, whose father is deceased, seeking employment as a companion, and being offered a post by Mr. Darcy. She accepts the position of companion to his younger sister, only to discover that his deal entails her marrying a man who is about to die in debtor's prison. I won't go into why she decides to go ahead with that, you have to be there in the story. So she starts her actual job as Mrs. Wickham.
For Georgette Heyer fans, this beginning might seem reminiscent, of The Reluctant Widow, and it is, but only in that beginning, where a young woman seeking employment winds up the widow of a man who owned a small estate. This is still very much a P&P variation. But that odd start takes us on a different kind of journey.
I missed Miss Bingley and Lady Catherine, who don't appear in this story, but there were plenty of their type, and I was relieved to find Georgiana to be her lovable self, after having read a few variations where she was not. Evil or disgruntled Georgianas don't sit well with me. Each P&P variation has its own mixture of characters, some true to the original and some not, and I found myself happy with this cast.
For anyone who loves JAFF/Austenesque stories, and P&P variations in particular, this is one of those not to be missed. The writing and storytelling are very good, and I found it entertaining. It may not go into my absolute favorite list, but there's nothing I can say against it, on any level. Highly recommended.
For Georgette Heyer fans, this beginning might seem reminiscent, of The Reluctant Widow, and it is, but only in that beginning, where a young woman seeking employment winds up the widow of a man who owned a small estate. This is still very much a P&P variation. But that odd start takes us on a different kind of journey.
I missed Miss Bingley and Lady Catherine, who don't appear in this story, but there were plenty of their type, and I was relieved to find Georgiana to be her lovable self, after having read a few variations where she was not. Evil or disgruntled Georgianas don't sit well with me. Each P&P variation has its own mixture of characters, some true to the original and some not, and I found myself happy with this cast.
For anyone who loves JAFF/Austenesque stories, and P&P variations in particular, this is one of those not to be missed. The writing and storytelling are very good, and I found it entertaining. It may not go into my absolute favorite list, but there's nothing I can say against it, on any level. Highly recommended.
September 7, 2020
Title and Author: The Rogue's Widow by Nicole Clarkston
Type: P&P Alternate Path
Perspective: Darcy and Elizabeth
Romance Level: Kissing
Recommended: No, 2 stars
Access: free for Amazon Kindle Unlimited
Summary: In this alternate path, Darcy meets Elizabeth for the first time as a potential companion for his sister, Georgiana. But there is more to his original request that requires faith in him before she knows his character. If she accepts, she can provide for her whole family. If she refuses, they may languish in poverty.
Things I Liked:
* These are the same characters, kind of.
* There was very little Lady Catherine in this one and even Mrs. Bennett is more subdued.
* Wickham, and anyone who helps him, is thoroughly thwarted.
Things I Didn't Like:
* The whole premise of this book feels out of character for both Darcy and Elizabeth. She would never agree to this arrangement without more information and he would feel it was deceptive.
* The characters were the only thing that resembles the original. The story was so far from the original and didn't really come together for me.
* Darcy has this misguided idea that he could not be with Elizabeth because of a matter of honor. But he was willing to overlook other parts of this arrangement. It didn't work.
Type: P&P Alternate Path
Perspective: Darcy and Elizabeth
Romance Level: Kissing
Recommended: No, 2 stars
Access: free for Amazon Kindle Unlimited
Summary: In this alternate path, Darcy meets Elizabeth for the first time as a potential companion for his sister, Georgiana. But there is more to his original request that requires faith in him before she knows his character. If she accepts, she can provide for her whole family. If she refuses, they may languish in poverty.
Things I Liked:
* These are the same characters, kind of.
* There was very little Lady Catherine in this one and even Mrs. Bennett is more subdued.
* Wickham, and anyone who helps him, is thoroughly thwarted.
Things I Didn't Like:
* The whole premise of this book feels out of character for both Darcy and Elizabeth. She would never agree to this arrangement without more information and he would feel it was deceptive.
* The characters were the only thing that resembles the original. The story was so far from the original and didn't really come together for me.
* Darcy has this misguided idea that he could not be with Elizabeth because of a matter of honor. But he was willing to overlook other parts of this arrangement. It didn't work.
May 24, 2021
This was a bit too quick for my liking. The overall plot was a variation worth exploring I suppose but the pacing of the novel as a whole was rather too fast to tell the tale in a way that felt fulfilling.
The discord between Richard and Darcy was an interesting choice woth respect to plot, but again, the brevity of it’s conclusion and subsequent picking back up of their brotherly tendencies didn’t feel right. I don’t want to call it disingenuous, but it didn’t feel real?
Characterization choices were also... interesting. All of the original characters were reminiscent of their original counterparts, other than Anne was altered to take up the mantle of her mother most definitively - she was as abhorrent as I imagine Lady Catherine would be. The addition of Lady Sophia didn't feel particularly necessary, especially since she essentially played Anne’s sidekick and had Anne's similar role in the events prior to the story. I will say both Bingley and Georgiana were nice renditions of their original characters - Bingley in his newfound assertiveness and Georgiana in her newfound caution.
Would I have liked this to be longer? Yes. Exposition of the events prior to the novel would've been welcome.
But it's not, so 3 stars it gets.
The discord between Richard and Darcy was an interesting choice woth respect to plot, but again, the brevity of it’s conclusion and subsequent picking back up of their brotherly tendencies didn’t feel right. I don’t want to call it disingenuous, but it didn’t feel real?
Characterization choices were also... interesting. All of the original characters were reminiscent of their original counterparts, other than Anne was altered to take up the mantle of her mother most definitively - she was as abhorrent as I imagine Lady Catherine would be. The addition of Lady Sophia didn't feel particularly necessary, especially since she essentially played Anne’s sidekick and had Anne's similar role in the events prior to the story. I will say both Bingley and Georgiana were nice renditions of their original characters - Bingley in his newfound assertiveness and Georgiana in her newfound caution.
Would I have liked this to be longer? Yes. Exposition of the events prior to the novel would've been welcome.
But it's not, so 3 stars it gets.
September 4, 2022
I thought this book was horribly written. It was confusing, convoluted, & nonsensical. I imagine the author meant for it to be a sort of intrigue , but even here at the end I’m still not exactly sure what I read or what happened.
I think the biggest failing was that this is one one the worst Darcy’s I’ve ever read. No he wasn’t cruel or a rake, but so incredibly high handed that literally a few simple pages of where he engaged in open honest communication with ANY of the other characters could have turned this whole book around. Or even had the events prior to the book been laid out more fully with a prologue or flashback scene.
Seriously the majority of the book I had no idea what was going on & when it was finally revealed, it was only done so through stilted conversations that were only half understood. Then even when I finally did get the general gist of things…most of it still didn’t make any sense because Darcy was continually operating on half truths or only recognizing the parts of the situation he wanted to & not the whole.
However, it looks like I’m the only one of this opinion, because I didn’t see anyone else with these complaints in the comments. I would not recommend this unless you want a headache.
I think the biggest failing was that this is one one the worst Darcy’s I’ve ever read. No he wasn’t cruel or a rake, but so incredibly high handed that literally a few simple pages of where he engaged in open honest communication with ANY of the other characters could have turned this whole book around. Or even had the events prior to the book been laid out more fully with a prologue or flashback scene.
Seriously the majority of the book I had no idea what was going on & when it was finally revealed, it was only done so through stilted conversations that were only half understood. Then even when I finally did get the general gist of things…most of it still didn’t make any sense because Darcy was continually operating on half truths or only recognizing the parts of the situation he wanted to & not the whole.
However, it looks like I’m the only one of this opinion, because I didn’t see anyone else with these complaints in the comments. I would not recommend this unless you want a headache.
March 23, 2020
Wonderful read
As always I have truly enjoyed this story. You have a way of making the story fun and I spend a lot of time laughing with Elizabeth in the story. I like the manly man of Mr. Darcy yet he always has a soft fun side as well. I love how you portray Colonel Fitzwilliam, he's a no nonsense kind of guy and can see right through Darcy. He is a true, time worn soldier in all your books. The fact that most of your stories are not just a repeat of P&P makes for a wonderful read.
The only surprise was Elizabeth's willingness to marry the way she did the first time and then she gives Darcy a hard time, but I guess if she was so willing with Darcy, the story would be over in two pages. I like how you handled Mrs. Younge and Mrs. Bennet.
I believe anyone who purchases this book will love it. Thanks for another wonderful read and I look forward to the next.
J. Maner
As always I have truly enjoyed this story. You have a way of making the story fun and I spend a lot of time laughing with Elizabeth in the story. I like the manly man of Mr. Darcy yet he always has a soft fun side as well. I love how you portray Colonel Fitzwilliam, he's a no nonsense kind of guy and can see right through Darcy. He is a true, time worn soldier in all your books. The fact that most of your stories are not just a repeat of P&P makes for a wonderful read.
The only surprise was Elizabeth's willingness to marry the way she did the first time and then she gives Darcy a hard time, but I guess if she was so willing with Darcy, the story would be over in two pages. I like how you handled Mrs. Younge and Mrs. Bennet.
I believe anyone who purchases this book will love it. Thanks for another wonderful read and I look forward to the next.
J. Maner
March 10, 2020
This was a very new and interesting variation that was fun to explore. Elizabeth, in reduced circumstances due to her father's death, accepts an employment offer to be Miss Darcy's companion.
She finds out right away that there is a little caveat she did not anticipate and that was that she marry a man who is in prison and also near death to prevent the disreputable brother from inheriting the family estate. Pride and Prejudice fans will have no trouble figuring out who this dastardly villain turns out to be. My attention never wavered and I enjoyed it very much as I always enjoy books from this author!
She finds out right away that there is a little caveat she did not anticipate and that was that she marry a man who is in prison and also near death to prevent the disreputable brother from inheriting the family estate. Pride and Prejudice fans will have no trouble figuring out who this dastardly villain turns out to be. My attention never wavered and I enjoyed it very much as I always enjoy books from this author!
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