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Longbourn Unexpected #1
Mr. Darcy's Persistent Pursuit: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Librarian Note: Alternate/new cover edition for ASIN: B00POEE6NY.
When Darcy proposes to Elizabeth at Hunsford, she declines his proposal with courtesy instead of anger, and he is left to discover on his own why she will not marry him. How can our beloved couple find their way to each other when Darcy doesn't know what she holds against him?
When Darcy proposes to Elizabeth at Hunsford, she declines his proposal with courtesy instead of anger, and he is left to discover on his own why she will not marry him. How can our beloved couple find their way to each other when Darcy doesn't know what she holds against him?
199 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 14, 2014
96 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Elaine Owen
11 books48 followersElaine Owen was born in Seattle, Washington and was a precocious reader from a young age. She read Pride and Prejudice for the first time in ninth grade, causing speechless delight for her English teacher when she used it for an oral book report. She practiced writing in various forms throughout her teen years, writing stories with her friends and being chief editor of the high school yearbook. She moved to Delaware when she married.
In 1996 she won a one year contract to write guest editorials in the Sunday edition of The News Journal in Wilmington, Delaware, and she continued her writing habit in political discussion groups and occasional forays into fiction.
In 2014 she began to write Pride and Prejudice fan fiction and decided to publish her works herself to see if she might possibly sell a few copies. Thousands of books later, the results have been beyond her wildest hopes, and she plans to continue writing fiction for the foreseeable future.
When she's not writing her next great novel, Elaine relaxes by working full time, raising two children with special needs, and earning a third degree black belt in karate. She can be contacted at elaineowen1@lycos.com. Look for her on Facebook!
https://www.facebook.com/ElaineOwenAu...
In 1996 she won a one year contract to write guest editorials in the Sunday edition of The News Journal in Wilmington, Delaware, and she continued her writing habit in political discussion groups and occasional forays into fiction.
In 2014 she began to write Pride and Prejudice fan fiction and decided to publish her works herself to see if she might possibly sell a few copies. Thousands of books later, the results have been beyond her wildest hopes, and she plans to continue writing fiction for the foreseeable future.
When she's not writing her next great novel, Elaine relaxes by working full time, raising two children with special needs, and earning a third degree black belt in karate. She can be contacted at elaineowen1@lycos.com. Look for her on Facebook!
https://www.facebook.com/ElaineOwenAu...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 12, 2022
Changing one step in your journey will not only change your destination but also your destiny.
This story has a lot going on and it takes a bit of time to get started. We are at Hunsford and Mr. Darcy’s disastrous proposal. From here on, we leave the canon account and tread new ground. It is a variation after all and we should expect that.
First off, Elizabeth didn’t let her anger get the better of her and blast him with the grievances she had against him [separating Jane from Bingley and offenses against Wickham].
Second, not knowing what she had against him, he couldn’t respond with a letter to defend himself. So, we have two people at cross purposes and each trying to convey a message to the other without drawing attention to themselves from those at the parsonage or at Rosings. Elizabeth was afraid to say too much because Mr. Darcy was a powerful man and she feared retribution from him against the others. Darcy was simply trying to understand how he could have misunderstood her feelings so completely. However, before they parted Kent, he did figure out she knew about Bingley leaving Netherfield. That, he could fix, and then he could figure out and fix the other offense.
The reviews on this story were mixed. I admit it was a little difficult getting started. However, once it got going, I became engaged in the story and I really enjoyed it. In fact, I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one sitting. Know going in that it is a novella and the action moves quickly. It is also off canon… change one thing, changes all. When you take a detour, the scenery changes completely from your original route. Also, certain characteristics were OOC [out of character]. People who act or react to a situation may act differently when those circumstances change. So, know going in that things are going to be different. Then simply enjoy the story.
Elizabeth: this modern Millie sort of got on my nerves when things were not going her way. Her stubborn pride was nearly the end of her HEA [happy ever after]. I was beginning to resent her until she finally recognized her own faults as well as recognizing that Mr. Darcy was not the ogre she originally thought. That was the turning point in the story for me. I could breathe a sigh of relief. Once Elizabeth starts to see Darcy for who he really is, her affections will soon change.
Lydia: man, oh man, she is a piece of work. I so resent Mr. & Mrs. Bennet for allowing this to happen. This little termagant was arrogant, rebellious, and stubborn. Actually, this book was a great set up for her story that follows in Love’s Fool: The Taming of Lydia Bennet. It is going to be full on. I can’t wait.
Caroline Bingley: This was fun. In her jealous spite, she started something and thought her revenge was now complete. However, she did not expect the backlash. She forgot the first principal in survival… you cannot slap a bear in the face and expect to walk away unscathed. Oh, this was simply delicious, and just so you know… Darcy was not the bear. You will be surprised at just who was. Caroline never knew what hit her. OMG!
A lot of our main P&P characters were off the page or only appeared briefly. This was not their story so they really were not needed. We had Anne de Bourgh in the background, our dear Colonel put in an appearance and helped hunt down, and secure he-who-shall-not-be-named. Do not mess with our dear Colonel. OMG!
Lady Catherine, powerfully arrogant, stormed Pemberley and confronted Elizabeth, who along with her Aunt & Uncle Gardiner were touring Derbyshire and were guests of the Darcys. This toe-to-toe confrontation was simply delicious. Wow, Elizabeth held her own until Darcy arrived, and then he went toe-to-toe with Lady Catherine in his study. Did the walls shake? Was the floor vibrating? This was a man violently in love and just as violently angry at his aunt for her harsh words to Elizabeth. I loved it. Her visit put into motion a plan of such magnitude that it defies the imagination. What fun. I simply loved this part and Uncle Gardiner is now my hero. He really was a vital point in this story.
This was a quick, clean read and I am so looking forward to the next book as they take on the taming of Lydia. OMG!!! That should be fun.
This story has a lot going on and it takes a bit of time to get started. We are at Hunsford and Mr. Darcy’s disastrous proposal. From here on, we leave the canon account and tread new ground. It is a variation after all and we should expect that.
First off, Elizabeth didn’t let her anger get the better of her and blast him with the grievances she had against him [separating Jane from Bingley and offenses against Wickham].
Second, not knowing what she had against him, he couldn’t respond with a letter to defend himself. So, we have two people at cross purposes and each trying to convey a message to the other without drawing attention to themselves from those at the parsonage or at Rosings. Elizabeth was afraid to say too much because Mr. Darcy was a powerful man and she feared retribution from him against the others. Darcy was simply trying to understand how he could have misunderstood her feelings so completely. However, before they parted Kent, he did figure out she knew about Bingley leaving Netherfield. That, he could fix, and then he could figure out and fix the other offense.
The reviews on this story were mixed. I admit it was a little difficult getting started. However, once it got going, I became engaged in the story and I really enjoyed it. In fact, I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one sitting. Know going in that it is a novella and the action moves quickly. It is also off canon… change one thing, changes all. When you take a detour, the scenery changes completely from your original route. Also, certain characteristics were OOC [out of character]. People who act or react to a situation may act differently when those circumstances change. So, know going in that things are going to be different. Then simply enjoy the story.
Elizabeth: this modern Millie sort of got on my nerves when things were not going her way. Her stubborn pride was nearly the end of her HEA [happy ever after]. I was beginning to resent her until she finally recognized her own faults as well as recognizing that Mr. Darcy was not the ogre she originally thought. That was the turning point in the story for me. I could breathe a sigh of relief. Once Elizabeth starts to see Darcy for who he really is, her affections will soon change.
Lydia: man, oh man, she is a piece of work. I so resent Mr. & Mrs. Bennet for allowing this to happen. This little termagant was arrogant, rebellious, and stubborn. Actually, this book was a great set up for her story that follows in Love’s Fool: The Taming of Lydia Bennet. It is going to be full on. I can’t wait.
Caroline Bingley: This was fun. In her jealous spite, she started something and thought her revenge was now complete. However, she did not expect the backlash. She forgot the first principal in survival… you cannot slap a bear in the face and expect to walk away unscathed. Oh, this was simply delicious, and just so you know… Darcy was not the bear. You will be surprised at just who was. Caroline never knew what hit her. OMG!
A lot of our main P&P characters were off the page or only appeared briefly. This was not their story so they really were not needed. We had Anne de Bourgh in the background, our dear Colonel put in an appearance and helped hunt down, and secure he-who-shall-not-be-named. Do not mess with our dear Colonel. OMG!
Lady Catherine, powerfully arrogant, stormed Pemberley and confronted Elizabeth, who along with her Aunt & Uncle Gardiner were touring Derbyshire and were guests of the Darcys. This toe-to-toe confrontation was simply delicious. Wow, Elizabeth held her own until Darcy arrived, and then he went toe-to-toe with Lady Catherine in his study. Did the walls shake? Was the floor vibrating? This was a man violently in love and just as violently angry at his aunt for her harsh words to Elizabeth. I loved it. Her visit put into motion a plan of such magnitude that it defies the imagination. What fun. I simply loved this part and Uncle Gardiner is now my hero. He really was a vital point in this story.
This was a quick, clean read and I am so looking forward to the next book as they take on the taming of Lydia. OMG!!! That should be fun.
February 10, 2016
3.5 stars
If you are a reader who wants a P&P variation that reflects canon very closely then this is a book you will find enjoyable. Many describe it as short and sweet. The premise is as stated in the book description that of Elizabeth Bennet turning down Darcy's proposal at Hunsford but with much less anger and fewer words or reasons. The only clue she actually gives him is his infamous insult at the Assembly in Meryton. However she also tells him that they really don't know each other and that she had no idea he had formed an attachment to her.
So Darcy does not write his rebuttal letter but meets Elizabeth the next morning while out on a walk (despite her efforts to avoid him) and apologizes to her for the insult. Much of the novel is then a dance of sorts in which hints are given in cryptic style by both parties as to beliefs held, i.e., Wickham's claims, Jane's and Bingley's separation. I found the "parable" type stories told about a musical piece by Elizabeth and about a servant coming to Bingley asking to be hired told by Darcy creative and amusing. Then there is the part where Jane takes Charlotte's words in canon about showing your feelings and gives that advice to Elizabeth.
The story does have the trip with Aunt and Uncle Gardiner to Pemberley but under different circumstances. We do have Aunt Catherine showing up but then the author writes the rest of her role in a more pleasing manner. Additionally the whole Lydia and Wickham fiasco is told with some changes. I did find satisfaction in how that was handled.
This is a pleasant retelling of the courtship between Darcy and Elizabeth and there is a sequel. I may read the sequel just for the desire to know how the taming of one particular shrew is handled by this author.
Again, this was an enjoyable read with little angst and only slightly different re-interpretations as to how it all played out.
If you are a reader who wants a P&P variation that reflects canon very closely then this is a book you will find enjoyable. Many describe it as short and sweet. The premise is as stated in the book description that of Elizabeth Bennet turning down Darcy's proposal at Hunsford but with much less anger and fewer words or reasons. The only clue she actually gives him is his infamous insult at the Assembly in Meryton. However she also tells him that they really don't know each other and that she had no idea he had formed an attachment to her.
So Darcy does not write his rebuttal letter but meets Elizabeth the next morning while out on a walk (despite her efforts to avoid him) and apologizes to her for the insult. Much of the novel is then a dance of sorts in which hints are given in cryptic style by both parties as to beliefs held, i.e., Wickham's claims, Jane's and Bingley's separation. I found the "parable" type stories told about a musical piece by Elizabeth and about a servant coming to Bingley asking to be hired told by Darcy creative and amusing. Then there is the part where Jane takes Charlotte's words in canon about showing your feelings and gives that advice to Elizabeth.
The story does have the trip with Aunt and Uncle Gardiner to Pemberley but under different circumstances. We do have Aunt Catherine showing up but then the author writes the rest of her role in a more pleasing manner. Additionally the whole Lydia and Wickham fiasco is told with some changes. I did find satisfaction in how that was handled.
This is a pleasant retelling of the courtship between Darcy and Elizabeth and there is a sequel. I may read the sequel just for the desire to know how the taming of one particular shrew is handled by this author.
Again, this was an enjoyable read with little angst and only slightly different re-interpretations as to how it all played out.
January 8, 2018
Thoroughly enjoyable read, angst free and well written.
ODC did had a slightly cold feel, would have liked to have seen more passion on an emotional level but Darcy was definitely persistent in his pursuit...
Entering during the Hunsford proposal, ODC keep it civil but that does not leave Darcy with a lot to go on in his persistent pursuit or any real insight of Elizabeth's true feelings. Can ODC find their way without this knowledge? As it turns out, Darcy perceptiveness and Elizabeth's ability to conceal her emotions does help them on.
Liked that when the Wickham/Lydia debacle came along, ODC worked together towards a solution.
Recommend this story.
ODC did had a slightly cold feel, would have liked to have seen more passion on an emotional level but Darcy was definitely persistent in his pursuit...
Entering during the Hunsford proposal, ODC keep it civil but that does not leave Darcy with a lot to go on in his persistent pursuit or any real insight of Elizabeth's true feelings. Can ODC find their way without this knowledge? As it turns out, Darcy perceptiveness and Elizabeth's ability to conceal her emotions does help them on.
Liked that when the Wickham/Lydia debacle came along, ODC worked together towards a solution.
Recommend this story.
July 9, 2020
July, 2020:
I have recently been made aware that this author is part of the Austen Authors Facebook group. That group removed a post by one of its authors about including a diversity of characters in JAFF. The group claims that a discussion of inclusion violates its commitment to “neutrality” in social issues. My contention is that if they aren’t even willing to post this as a topic for discussion, they are making white supremacy their neutral position. I’m deeply saddened that this author has made the decision to stay in the group, and feel that readers have a right to know before they spend their money.
I have recently been made aware that this author is part of the Austen Authors Facebook group. That group removed a post by one of its authors about including a diversity of characters in JAFF. The group claims that a discussion of inclusion violates its commitment to “neutrality” in social issues. My contention is that if they aren’t even willing to post this as a topic for discussion, they are making white supremacy their neutral position. I’m deeply saddened that this author has made the decision to stay in the group, and feel that readers have a right to know before they spend their money.
May 4, 2019
He is, indeed, persistent
Once he decided she was what he wanted, there was nothing he would not do to win her heart, so this story captures, in a very lovely manner, all his efforts and the effect they have on her.
Very imaginative and entertaining!
Once he decided she was what he wanted, there was nothing he would not do to win her heart, so this story captures, in a very lovely manner, all his efforts and the effect they have on her.
Very imaginative and entertaining!
March 17, 2015
As Pride and Prejudice is my favorite novel of all time and I was going on a trip to the beach, I thought I would give this variation a try. I managed to get through it, but only just.
Everyone was completely out of character to the point that I considered just putting it down and never coming back. Elizabeth was depicted as an anxious, self-conscious girl who had no idea what she wanted and just let everyone else tell her what to do. Then she went from being completely unsure about Darcy to deciding she was in love with him and boom, done. I just felt like it was completely against the character that Jane Austen wrote Elizabeth to be.
Additionally, Mr. Bennett would never have agreed to, much less suggested the scheme of Elizabeth going to Pemberley, this variation basically reduced him to being the same as Mrs. Bennett rather than the sanity of the house. So basically the entire story line was completely unbelievable -- not even mentioning the specific moments (and there were MANY) where I thought "uhh, yeah, that would never have happened during that time period".
Finally, I felt that it could have been a nice touch to use quotes from the original text, but they were completely forced and seemed to only function as an attempt to cover up plot holes and a complete lack of feeling in the story. It was like the story was told to you, never shown to you in a way that made you believe it and fall into it the way to original did.
Overall, I wish I had chosen a different selection, I'm just glad it only took a few hours to get through.
Everyone was completely out of character to the point that I considered just putting it down and never coming back. Elizabeth was depicted as an anxious, self-conscious girl who had no idea what she wanted and just let everyone else tell her what to do. Then she went from being completely unsure about Darcy to deciding she was in love with him and boom, done. I just felt like it was completely against the character that Jane Austen wrote Elizabeth to be.
Additionally, Mr. Bennett would never have agreed to, much less suggested the scheme of Elizabeth going to Pemberley, this variation basically reduced him to being the same as Mrs. Bennett rather than the sanity of the house. So basically the entire story line was completely unbelievable -- not even mentioning the specific moments (and there were MANY) where I thought "uhh, yeah, that would never have happened during that time period".
Finally, I felt that it could have been a nice touch to use quotes from the original text, but they were completely forced and seemed to only function as an attempt to cover up plot holes and a complete lack of feeling in the story. It was like the story was told to you, never shown to you in a way that made you believe it and fall into it the way to original did.
Overall, I wish I had chosen a different selection, I'm just glad it only took a few hours to get through.
June 9, 2022
Book One of Longbourn Unexpected Trilogy
June 9, 2022
First read in 2019, I somehow neglected to post a review for this first book of the “Longbourn Unexpected” trilogy. I enjoyed this “what if” Elizabeth didn’t lose her temper with Darcy after she refused his proposal at Hunsford and was determined to persist in his suit to court and marry her. At the time of publication, this was a debut novel of Ms. Owen and was a great first effort I liked very much. She has gone on to write additional books I have also enjoyed. The second book of this series, “Love’s Fool, The Taming of Lydia Bennet”, is one of the best Lydia stories in JAFF. I highly recommend this series.
June 9, 2022
First read in 2019, I somehow neglected to post a review for this first book of the “Longbourn Unexpected” trilogy. I enjoyed this “what if” Elizabeth didn’t lose her temper with Darcy after she refused his proposal at Hunsford and was determined to persist in his suit to court and marry her. At the time of publication, this was a debut novel of Ms. Owen and was a great first effort I liked very much. She has gone on to write additional books I have also enjoyed. The second book of this series, “Love’s Fool, The Taming of Lydia Bennet”, is one of the best Lydia stories in JAFF. I highly recommend this series.
February 26, 2016
3.5 stars, rounded up. This was one of those fairly low conflict variations, but I found the circumstances and plot interesting enough that I didn't mind. I was happy that at least it took Elizabeth longer than a week to decide she loved Darcy. I think my favorite thing was the variation on the Lydia and Wickham plot, and now I remember this is the book with the Lydia sequel. I never thought I'd be tempted to read a book about Lydia, but I plan to give this one a try.
July 4, 2015
I enjoyed this story. It was a tad far-fetched, but I enjoyed the characters and found Darcy's courtship of Elizabeth to be quite romantic. This is a very G rated story, which is a nice change.
June 16, 2021
A good read with a few tweaks to the original exploring a gradual change in relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy.
September 22, 2020
This is a pleasant read, nothing hugely wrong with it. But it could have been better.
Darcy makes some beautiful speeches to enhance his suit to Elizabeth. That's the persistent pursuit. When I think of a persistent pursuit, I think of something with more action to it, but nevertheless, this story did deliver on the phrase, more subtly than my idea.
Pemberley features strongly in the novel, and the descriptions are well-done. You feel as though you're there.
The author spends time telling about things rather than showing them, missing opportunities for additional drama. E.g., Wickham's supposed to be very evil, yet no evidence is given other than rumours, making the reader expect something that never comes. In addition, the rather convenient marriage to distract from any scandal isn't convincing to me, nor is Mrs. Bennet's calm acceptance of it all. There were several items like this that seemed a bit too contrived. But not hugely, like in some stories. It was subtle, and nearly got by me.
The book has good Regency feel to its language and settings, with the exception of the non-Regency "staff" for servants. It flows well, keeps up the reader's interest, and offers a small amount of angst. Characters are consistent and supporting characters don't overwhelm the main story, but enhance it. The length feels just right, so it's managed to pull its story arc together and end well, despite a bit of annoying future listing of family tree stuff that I tend to abhor but most readers love. Editing is well done with no errors to distract the reader. This is huge compared to the last few books I've had the displeasure to read. Congrats, Ms. Owen, on caring to put out a tidy book.
The cover is a bit "meh." It's a pretty scene, but it could be on any book. It clearly doesn't pull me in to read this novel.
Disclaimer: I'm also a writer of JAFF novels, and my review could be considered a conflict of interest; however, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial.
Darcy makes some beautiful speeches to enhance his suit to Elizabeth. That's the persistent pursuit. When I think of a persistent pursuit, I think of something with more action to it, but nevertheless, this story did deliver on the phrase, more subtly than my idea.
Pemberley features strongly in the novel, and the descriptions are well-done. You feel as though you're there.
The author spends time telling about things rather than showing them, missing opportunities for additional drama. E.g., Wickham's supposed to be very evil, yet no evidence is given other than rumours, making the reader expect something that never comes. In addition, the rather convenient marriage to distract from any scandal isn't convincing to me, nor is Mrs. Bennet's calm acceptance of it all. There were several items like this that seemed a bit too contrived. But not hugely, like in some stories. It was subtle, and nearly got by me.
The book has good Regency feel to its language and settings, with the exception of the non-Regency "staff" for servants. It flows well, keeps up the reader's interest, and offers a small amount of angst. Characters are consistent and supporting characters don't overwhelm the main story, but enhance it. The length feels just right, so it's managed to pull its story arc together and end well, despite a bit of annoying future listing of family tree stuff that I tend to abhor but most readers love. Editing is well done with no errors to distract the reader. This is huge compared to the last few books I've had the displeasure to read. Congrats, Ms. Owen, on caring to put out a tidy book.
The cover is a bit "meh." It's a pretty scene, but it could be on any book. It clearly doesn't pull me in to read this novel.
Disclaimer: I'm also a writer of JAFF novels, and my review could be considered a conflict of interest; however, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial.
May 11, 2018
How do events change if at the Hunsford proprosal Elizabeth does not react with anger. But how then can Darcy determine why he has been refused. Happy endings may exist but there is always Lydia, Caroline Bingley and Wickham to contend with.
An enjoyable story and I look forward to read the next in the series.
An enjoyable story and I look forward to read the next in the series.
January 11, 2015
this is a P & P variation with virtually everything after the proposal at Rosings altered. I wanted to like this book. But I found it really difficult to get through. I wasn't until I read the sequel Love's Fool: The Taming of Lydia Bennet: What Happened After Mr. Darcy's Persistent Pursuit and LOVED THAT BOOK that I could bring myself to finish this novel.
Set after Lizzy & Darcy meet at Rosings we have Lizzy refusing to marry him until she feels she isn't being forced. Now we all want to respect Lizzy Bennet for her desire to only marry for love but this just got ridiculous. Everyone in the book except Lizzy realizes she is in love with Darcy; she is just being stubborn and pig headed.
Early in the book found 2 errors that I found difficult to reconcile
One is a typo (I hope) That says Jane hadn't returned to Hartford while there is one in England it is near Wales.
The other is a bit of business where the Gardiners leave Longbourn, near Meryton, in Hertfordshire travel to Pemberley via London which is totally illogical. See map
When Lizzy and company arrive at Pemberley the Hursts and Miss Bingley are visiting which they would never be without Bingley and Bingley is at Netherfield. I can't believe that Georgiana's companion would have allowed them to 'crash'. It is a plot device, but poorly done.
Once Lizzy accepts Darcy the story gets somewhat better; although she is still rather neurotic.
Set after Lizzy & Darcy meet at Rosings we have Lizzy refusing to marry him until she feels she isn't being forced. Now we all want to respect Lizzy Bennet for her desire to only marry for love but this just got ridiculous. Everyone in the book except Lizzy realizes she is in love with Darcy; she is just being stubborn and pig headed.
Early in the book found 2 errors that I found difficult to reconcile
One is a typo (I hope) That says Jane hadn't returned to Hartford while there is one in England it is near Wales.
The other is a bit of business where the Gardiners leave Longbourn, near Meryton, in Hertfordshire travel to Pemberley via London which is totally illogical. See map
When Lizzy and company arrive at Pemberley the Hursts and Miss Bingley are visiting which they would never be without Bingley and Bingley is at Netherfield. I can't believe that Georgiana's companion would have allowed them to 'crash'. It is a plot device, but poorly done.
Once Lizzy accepts Darcy the story gets somewhat better; although she is still rather neurotic.
July 15, 2018
Fun romantic romp
Just a great story. It gallops along with tons of things going on. After ‘The Proposal’ Lizzy has zero good thoughts about Darcy.
Darcy is still mad about Lizzy, is able to convince her to give him another chance, and he barely is able to change enough to let her fall in love with him. The only problem in the story was how easy he was able to change his personality. The story was much like a Katherine Hepburn / Cary Grant romantic comedy romp from the 1930s. Excellent story.
My favorite scene was Paps Bennet pounding on the front door looking for Lizzy. Newly married the day before, a disheveled Darcy answers the door, the servants having the day off for privacy sake, and Mr. B shouts at Darcy “Where is my daughter?”, not knowing they are married. She pokes her head out from behind Darcy and embarrassingly says “hello Father.” Priceless 😂
Highly recommended.
Just a great story. It gallops along with tons of things going on. After ‘The Proposal’ Lizzy has zero good thoughts about Darcy.
Darcy is still mad about Lizzy, is able to convince her to give him another chance, and he barely is able to change enough to let her fall in love with him. The only problem in the story was how easy he was able to change his personality. The story was much like a Katherine Hepburn / Cary Grant romantic comedy romp from the 1930s. Excellent story.
My favorite scene was Paps Bennet pounding on the front door looking for Lizzy. Newly married the day before, a disheveled Darcy answers the door, the servants having the day off for privacy sake, and Mr. B shouts at Darcy “Where is my daughter?”, not knowing they are married. She pokes her head out from behind Darcy and embarrassingly says “hello Father.” Priceless 😂
Highly recommended.
November 28, 2014
4.5 stars - a nice clean enjoyable read with no misunderstandings during their courtship. Although Elizabeth turns down Darcy's proposal she does so kindly and he thus has hope that not all is lost. Soon they are in a courtship and the path to love seems almost too easy. Wickham still tries to wreak havoc but Lydia gets a kinder end. Darcy and Elizabeth thus get their happy ending with some amusement at Mr Bennets expense.
March 24, 2019
Not Deep Enough
I enjoyed this story but it seamed superficial. The romance was deep on the part of Mr Darcy but Elizabeth’s feelings really didn’t have time to develop. Most of the rest of the story’s seemed contrived and did not flow well. The inclusion of dialogue from the original Pride and Prejudice did not improve the story. In addition, it wasn’t really a regency story. The characters said things which were not normal for that time period.
I enjoyed this story but it seamed superficial. The romance was deep on the part of Mr Darcy but Elizabeth’s feelings really didn’t have time to develop. Most of the rest of the story’s seemed contrived and did not flow well. The inclusion of dialogue from the original Pride and Prejudice did not improve the story. In addition, it wasn’t really a regency story. The characters said things which were not normal for that time period.
June 13, 2016
Mr. Darcy's Persistent Pursuit
Interesting story, well thought out, and the description and the writing style were just brilliant. So much detail to this story! Please write another, Elaine!!
Interesting story, well thought out, and the description and the writing style were just brilliant. So much detail to this story! Please write another, Elaine!!
October 19, 2019
An engaging foray into what might have happened at Pemberly
This was a creative take on Pride and Prejudice, using many of Austen's phrases but in slightly different contexts. The story begins at Darcy's first proposal in Kent. But then it veers off into territory never seen by Jane Austen. It includes all the characters we know and love -- or love to hate -- with their original characters.
But their decisions and actions are often different, which is hard for me to reconcile. Shouldn't a character's actions be derived from their natural character? And if they make different decisions, is their character still natural, or are they acting "out of character"? I don't know, but I will admit that it was very entertaining to watch and try to decipher this dilemma. I must say that the ending (without giving any spoilers) was even more satisfying than Jane Austen's, though she is my favorite author.
There was one inconsistency with the original. In Chapter 41 of Austen's P&P, Kitty claims that she has just as much right to be asked as Lydia to accompany Mrs. Forster to Brighton, because she is two years older. But in Chapter 5, page 32, of this variation, Elaine Owens has Kitty saying, “It seems very hard that she should not ask me, for I am older by a whole year!”
But aside from that, a most pleasurable read indeed.
Favorite quotes:
“Darcy had at once confirmed and contradicted every previous impression of himself.”
“The colonel eyed him with unrestrained curiosity. 'Please tell me your strategy, for your ambition rivals that of Napoleon.'”
“I found Mr. Darcy to be too proud but I let my own pride cloud the judgment I thought I owned...I have been my own worst enemy.”
“You see a minor miracle before you. It appears that Darcy insulted Elizabeth, Elizabeth rejected Darcy, and now, of course, they have decided that they wish to court. I do not understand it all, but I have given my blessing since they are being so very entertaining.”
“'We are not engaged!' Elizabeth said emphatically to nobody in particular. Mr. Bennett raised an eyebrow as he looked at her. 'Methinks the lady doth protest too much.'”
“...leaving Elizabeth to conclude that despite his earlier words Darcy understood the art of courtship very well indeed.”
“Charity that is performed for the praise of others is no longer charity, but mere pretense. The good that is done should be done for its own sake.”
“...but she realized anew that pride has many forms, and with a flash of insight she acknowledged that she had her own full share.”
And the perfect description of someone whose Love Language is Gifts: “Consider how you would feel if you were to plan a surprise for him and he protested that he did not want such gifts from you.”
This was a creative take on Pride and Prejudice, using many of Austen's phrases but in slightly different contexts. The story begins at Darcy's first proposal in Kent. But then it veers off into territory never seen by Jane Austen. It includes all the characters we know and love -- or love to hate -- with their original characters.
But their decisions and actions are often different, which is hard for me to reconcile. Shouldn't a character's actions be derived from their natural character? And if they make different decisions, is their character still natural, or are they acting "out of character"? I don't know, but I will admit that it was very entertaining to watch and try to decipher this dilemma. I must say that the ending (without giving any spoilers) was even more satisfying than Jane Austen's, though she is my favorite author.
There was one inconsistency with the original. In Chapter 41 of Austen's P&P, Kitty claims that she has just as much right to be asked as Lydia to accompany Mrs. Forster to Brighton, because she is two years older. But in Chapter 5, page 32, of this variation, Elaine Owens has Kitty saying, “It seems very hard that she should not ask me, for I am older by a whole year!”
But aside from that, a most pleasurable read indeed.
Favorite quotes:
“Darcy had at once confirmed and contradicted every previous impression of himself.”
“The colonel eyed him with unrestrained curiosity. 'Please tell me your strategy, for your ambition rivals that of Napoleon.'”
“I found Mr. Darcy to be too proud but I let my own pride cloud the judgment I thought I owned...I have been my own worst enemy.”
“You see a minor miracle before you. It appears that Darcy insulted Elizabeth, Elizabeth rejected Darcy, and now, of course, they have decided that they wish to court. I do not understand it all, but I have given my blessing since they are being so very entertaining.”
“'We are not engaged!' Elizabeth said emphatically to nobody in particular. Mr. Bennett raised an eyebrow as he looked at her. 'Methinks the lady doth protest too much.'”
“...leaving Elizabeth to conclude that despite his earlier words Darcy understood the art of courtship very well indeed.”
“Charity that is performed for the praise of others is no longer charity, but mere pretense. The good that is done should be done for its own sake.”
“...but she realized anew that pride has many forms, and with a flash of insight she acknowledged that she had her own full share.”
And the perfect description of someone whose Love Language is Gifts: “Consider how you would feel if you were to plan a surprise for him and he protested that he did not want such gifts from you.”
December 27, 2018
In this P&P variation, Lizzie Bennet does not get the chance to tell Mr Darcy why she was refusing his proposal and so he never knows exactly what objections she has to him and never writes her the letter clearing everything up. This leads to Mr Darcy slowly finding out what objections Lizzie has to his proposal and learning more about the one he loves and her family.
This was an interesting P&P variation as we see how Lizzie and Darcy still have to learn how to fit with each other before they can be together. Mr Darcy continues to pursue Lizzie, while she grows more and more fond of him throughout the book, though still hesitates. I was very sympathetic to the fact because I felt the same way when I was reading the book and Lizzie's hesitation. Also I'm very contrary so people pushing me to do one thing generally gets me to do the opposite.
However, this book didn't strike me as anything particularly memorable. I read it, I enjoyed it but it's not going to stick in my memory at all unfortunately.
One thing I did like about this book was what they did with Lydia. This made me far more interested in reading the sequel after I finished this, despite not being that enthusiastic about this book.
3 stars!
This was an interesting P&P variation as we see how Lizzie and Darcy still have to learn how to fit with each other before they can be together. Mr Darcy continues to pursue Lizzie, while she grows more and more fond of him throughout the book, though still hesitates. I was very sympathetic to the fact because I felt the same way when I was reading the book and Lizzie's hesitation. Also I'm very contrary so people pushing me to do one thing generally gets me to do the opposite.
However, this book didn't strike me as anything particularly memorable. I read it, I enjoyed it but it's not going to stick in my memory at all unfortunately.
One thing I did like about this book was what they did with Lydia. This made me far more interested in reading the sequel after I finished this, despite not being that enthusiastic about this book.
3 stars!
June 12, 2020
The book starts with THE PROPOSAL, but assumes every one knows everything that has transpired before (which is fair to expect every P&P fan to know). The first two-thirds of the story was so much more interesting to me than the last few chapters which were dragged/twisted at best.
December 19, 2017
I have to begin by saying I was in a horrible reading slump. Many thanks to Debbie Brown who recommended this story. This was a delightful story. This was an easy read with little angst.
The story begins when Elizabeth declines Darcy's proposal in Hunsford. Darcy is determined to win Elizabeth's heart. It is decided by Mr. Bennet that a courtship should happen away from Longbourn. It is decided that Elizabeth is to accompany her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner to Pemberley. We journey to Pemberley and watch their love bloom. I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading other stories from this author.
The story begins when Elizabeth declines Darcy's proposal in Hunsford. Darcy is determined to win Elizabeth's heart. It is decided by Mr. Bennet that a courtship should happen away from Longbourn. It is decided that Elizabeth is to accompany her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner to Pemberley. We journey to Pemberley and watch their love bloom. I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading other stories from this author.
abandoned
July 19, 2025Dnf at 70%.. Nothing of significance happened. Elizabeth and Darcy are courting, and during that chapters all that happens is miss Bingley's antics and getting to know Georgiana. Darcy and Elizabeth didn't even have 1 meaningful conversation, bit somehow Elizabeth's feelings are changed and she accepts Darcy. It was all dry and honestly pointless. Darcy didn't even do anything.
April 22, 2018
Slow start.......to a great read!
The beginning of this book was a bit too boring in Elizabeth's response to Darcy's proposal. But, in short work, I couldn't put it down. Thanks for a good book from this author in writing her first P&P variation. Hope to read more in the future!
The beginning of this book was a bit too boring in Elizabeth's response to Darcy's proposal. But, in short work, I couldn't put it down. Thanks for a good book from this author in writing her first P&P variation. Hope to read more in the future!
September 4, 2018
Can't wait to read the next two sequels!
This was a great story, well-written, taking place after a slightly different proposal at Hunsford. Elizabeth's gradual change in feeling toward Darcy is very well-done.
This was a great story, well-written, taking place after a slightly different proposal at Hunsford. Elizabeth's gradual change in feeling toward Darcy is very well-done.
March 15, 2020
I enjoyed how polite Elizabeth was with Mr Darcy after his proposal. I also enjoyed how Mr Darcy worked to fix what he realized he caused to hurt Elizabeth. I truly was amazed how Darcy handles Wickham at Netherfield. I loved the courtship and marriage s that came about. Highly recommended to read
August 30, 2018
Lovely
A rather interesting retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. How would they react if Elizabeth refused his marriage offer politely?
A rather interesting retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. How would they react if Elizabeth refused his marriage offer politely?
November 27, 2018
Very satisfying
Having read a number of P&P variations, this one was the most satisfying and enjoyable to date. I will be reading more of this author's books!
Having read a number of P&P variations, this one was the most satisfying and enjoyable to date. I will be reading more of this author's books!
January 13, 2019
2.5
An ok variation. Fairly OOC for a number of people but you could overlook that, as inoffensive enough... except it also had lots of historical, social, & practical mistakes.
An ok variation. Fairly OOC for a number of people but you could overlook that, as inoffensive enough... except it also had lots of historical, social, & practical mistakes.
January 21, 2019
An enjoyable Austenation. Fairly free of anachronisms and reasonably Austenish in language and characterization. It is the first in a trilogy and I am looking forward to reading the rest.
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