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The Mysteries of Pemberley
Elizabeth Bennet made her sister a promise on her deathbed: to love and care for her son, young Charles Bingley, like her very own child. And so she did, for four years, until the boy's guardian, Fitzwilliam Darcy showed up in Meryton, insisting on removing the boy from his aunt, his life and everything he knew, to be raised at Pemberley.
Elizabeth, determined to honor Jane, insists on going with them, soon finding herself installed at Pemberley as an unwanted guest of Mr. Darcy and his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. It's the year without a summer and Pemberley is austere and ghostly, with shadows and secrets lurking in every corner. With too much time to herself, Elizabeth soon finds herself wondering about Mr. Darcy’s past and the identity of a young lady who she reads about in the lady’s journal.
She soon thinks she has a faithful sketch of Mr. Darcy’s character until one key truth emerges which shatters all her prepossessions. Bit by bit the mysteries of Pemberley unravel—but what will she find at the end of it?
This Pride and Prejudice variation is written in the style of gothic novels of the regency era, such as Northanger Abbey. The beloved characters of Jane Austen in scenarios of the author's imagining.
Elizabeth, determined to honor Jane, insists on going with them, soon finding herself installed at Pemberley as an unwanted guest of Mr. Darcy and his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. It's the year without a summer and Pemberley is austere and ghostly, with shadows and secrets lurking in every corner. With too much time to herself, Elizabeth soon finds herself wondering about Mr. Darcy’s past and the identity of a young lady who she reads about in the lady’s journal.
She soon thinks she has a faithful sketch of Mr. Darcy’s character until one key truth emerges which shatters all her prepossessions. Bit by bit the mysteries of Pemberley unravel—but what will she find at the end of it?
This Pride and Prejudice variation is written in the style of gothic novels of the regency era, such as Northanger Abbey. The beloved characters of Jane Austen in scenarios of the author's imagining.
394 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
September 18, 2021
5+ stars!
I read this previously online and was delighted when I saw that Quills and Quartos had published it. I'd say it's more a Darcy and Elizabeth story than a true variation on Pride and Prejudice because the gothic atmosphere and storyline is less Austen and much more du Maurier or Bronte (or perhaps Radcliffe, but I've never read The Mysteries of Udolpho to be able to say so with any certainty). It's a brilliant combination of genres.
The gothic influence is evident right from the start. Jane Bingley is dying of a fever that's already claimed many in the families around Meryton, including Mrs. Bennet, Lydia, and Jane's husband, Charles Bingley. Jane elicits a deathbed promise from Elizabeth to be a mother to her child.
Four years later, a terrible ongoing blight has resulted in ruined crops throughout England. Elizabeth is now twenty-five. Mr. Bennet, young Charles, and she are the only family left at Longbourn, as Mary and Kitty have both married.
Mr. Darcy, who was out of the country since before Mr. Bingley died, has now returned and learned that his friend's will named HIM the legal guardian of his son. Elizabeth doesn't want Darcy to take Charles away from the only family he's ever known but, when the Bennets have no choice, she insists that Darcy allow her to accompany the child, despite how this will adversely affect her marital status.
When they get to Pemberley, it's a place filled with closed off rooms and secrets. Lady Catherine lives there with her nephew. (Why not Rosings? That's one secret - answered much later - that the reader will wonder about but Elizabeth wouldn't.) It appears that that her daughter Anne was the former Mrs. Darcy, now deceased.
Elizabeth can see that Darcy and Lady Catherine believe she will leave once she realizes how superior their care for Charles is; Elizabeth herself hopes they will decide that caring for an active five-year-old is more difficult than expected and let her bring him back to Longbourn
Over time, Elizabeth comes across various clues that make her wonder whether the intimidating Mr. Darcy murdered his former wife. The tone is chilling through much of the first half of the story as more and more evidence suggests Elizabeth's supposition has merit.
Ms. D'Orazio's writing is gorgeous. As an example, this is Elizabeth's first view of Pemberley: Pemberley itself, like its master, seemed to be staring about the landscape with an air of patient disapproval, a grand lady rising up to haughtily pronounce the cold an abomination from which she would remain apart.
A major turning point in the plot turns up about halfway through the book (not unlike the effect of Mr. Darcy's marriage proposal in the original P&P), and some explanations are finally provided. From then on, the story lightens, but the underlying mystery remains. I LOVE this perfect description of Elizabeth's confusion at the time: She felt like an actor thrust into the middle of some play, one who had missed the first act but was expected to play her role nevertheless.
The mystery kept me guessing right up to the final chapters. The romantic tension between Darcy and Elizabeth builds really nicely, too. Those familiar with Ms. D'Orazio's recurring original characters will be pleased to know that Lord Saye does turn up and has a significant impact on the outcome. All the characters are well rounded and believable - the heavy tone doesn't descend into over-the-top melodrama, though the Bennet and Darcy families do have more than their share of tragedy.
This makes it onto my personal "Best of 2020" list. Highly recommend!
I read this previously online and was delighted when I saw that Quills and Quartos had published it. I'd say it's more a Darcy and Elizabeth story than a true variation on Pride and Prejudice because the gothic atmosphere and storyline is less Austen and much more du Maurier or Bronte (or perhaps Radcliffe, but I've never read The Mysteries of Udolpho to be able to say so with any certainty). It's a brilliant combination of genres.
The gothic influence is evident right from the start. Jane Bingley is dying of a fever that's already claimed many in the families around Meryton, including Mrs. Bennet, Lydia, and Jane's husband, Charles Bingley. Jane elicits a deathbed promise from Elizabeth to be a mother to her child.
Four years later, a terrible ongoing blight has resulted in ruined crops throughout England. Elizabeth is now twenty-five. Mr. Bennet, young Charles, and she are the only family left at Longbourn, as Mary and Kitty have both married.
Mr. Darcy, who was out of the country since before Mr. Bingley died, has now returned and learned that his friend's will named HIM the legal guardian of his son. Elizabeth doesn't want Darcy to take Charles away from the only family he's ever known but, when the Bennets have no choice, she insists that Darcy allow her to accompany the child, despite how this will adversely affect her marital status.
When they get to Pemberley, it's a place filled with closed off rooms and secrets. Lady Catherine lives there with her nephew. (Why not Rosings? That's one secret - answered much later - that the reader will wonder about but Elizabeth wouldn't.) It appears that that her daughter Anne was the former Mrs. Darcy, now deceased.
Elizabeth can see that Darcy and Lady Catherine believe she will leave once she realizes how superior their care for Charles is; Elizabeth herself hopes they will decide that caring for an active five-year-old is more difficult than expected and let her bring him back to Longbourn
Over time, Elizabeth comes across various clues that make her wonder whether the intimidating Mr. Darcy murdered his former wife. The tone is chilling through much of the first half of the story as more and more evidence suggests Elizabeth's supposition has merit.
Ms. D'Orazio's writing is gorgeous. As an example, this is Elizabeth's first view of Pemberley: Pemberley itself, like its master, seemed to be staring about the landscape with an air of patient disapproval, a grand lady rising up to haughtily pronounce the cold an abomination from which she would remain apart.
A major turning point in the plot turns up about halfway through the book (not unlike the effect of Mr. Darcy's marriage proposal in the original P&P), and some explanations are finally provided. From then on, the story lightens, but the underlying mystery remains. I LOVE this perfect description of Elizabeth's confusion at the time: She felt like an actor thrust into the middle of some play, one who had missed the first act but was expected to play her role nevertheless.
The mystery kept me guessing right up to the final chapters. The romantic tension between Darcy and Elizabeth builds really nicely, too. Those familiar with Ms. D'Orazio's recurring original characters will be pleased to know that Lord Saye does turn up and has a significant impact on the outcome. All the characters are well rounded and believable - the heavy tone doesn't descend into over-the-top melodrama, though the Bennet and Darcy families do have more than their share of tragedy.
This makes it onto my personal "Best of 2020" list. Highly recommend!
November 4, 2022
This is the second time I have read this.
A heart wrenching beginning has a dying Jane Bingley neé Bennet extracting a promise from Elizabeth...that she will care for and treat Jane's son, Charles, as she would her own child.
Mrs. Bennet, Lydia and Jane, all, died during a plague that swept through parts of England. Kitty and Mary are married so it is only Elizabeth and her father who continue on as time passes at Longbourn.
Four years later a man shows up. This man, a Mr. Darcy, states that his friend, Charles Bingley, left his son under his guardianship and thus he is taking him to his estate, Pemberley, to live under his protection. After some finagling (trying to hide Charles and seeking ways to deny his claims) Elizabeth begs to be allowed to accompany them and act as Charles' governess, the only way she can see to keep her promise as well as be with this child she loves so well.
Elizabeth finds Pemberley to be a subdued and depressing place. Mr. Darcy has little happiness in his life. He claims to have been out of England until recently and therefore did not know about Charles or the guardianship. He has his Aunt, Lady Catherine, living with him but has lost his parents and his sister and, Elizabeth is led to believe, his wife. And when she finds a journal and reads it despite knowing it is not hers to read, she also begins to believe that he is a monster under the cold façade he presents. It is only when he leaves Pemberley for London after he has saved her from an fall down a well that his Fitzwilliam cousins and their parents and spouses show up for the Christmas holidays that Elizabeth realizes that she has made more than one erroneous assumption and that she owes that man a great apology.
We also read about some various people in the neighborhood: a Mrs. Green who seems to egg on Elizabeth's negative opinions about Darcy is one. Then Charles has nightmares and reports that a lady named George has been visiting him at night. Elizabeth's kind overtures towards a lady and her husband, owners of a bake shop in a nearby town lead to a mysterious pin's providing a clue to the mystery of Darcy's sister's "death". Then there is the brain damaged man who lives on Pemberley property, wandering and mumbling inappropriate words to those he meets. Elizabeth pities him and cannot understand Darcy's demand that she avoid him...or even more his demand that she never walk out alone.
Lady Catherine, living at Pemberley and making demands that the division of classes be maintained, tippling gin, and then also informing Elizabeth that she blames Darcy for the death of her daughter, Anne, is another strange circumstance that Elizabeth cannot quite understand. His actions seem to say he is a kind and caring master to the employees. His attentions to Elizabeth also seem contradictory to the opinion she has formed from reading that journal.
It is all a mystery and Elizabeth remembers how her father advised her that when working on a puzzle if later pieces don't seem to fit - perhaps the earlier pieces were misplaced. Could that be what she has here?
This story was well worth a second read.
A heart wrenching beginning has a dying Jane Bingley neé Bennet extracting a promise from Elizabeth...that she will care for and treat Jane's son, Charles, as she would her own child.
Mrs. Bennet, Lydia and Jane, all, died during a plague that swept through parts of England. Kitty and Mary are married so it is only Elizabeth and her father who continue on as time passes at Longbourn.
Four years later a man shows up. This man, a Mr. Darcy, states that his friend, Charles Bingley, left his son under his guardianship and thus he is taking him to his estate, Pemberley, to live under his protection. After some finagling (trying to hide Charles and seeking ways to deny his claims) Elizabeth begs to be allowed to accompany them and act as Charles' governess, the only way she can see to keep her promise as well as be with this child she loves so well.
Elizabeth finds Pemberley to be a subdued and depressing place. Mr. Darcy has little happiness in his life. He claims to have been out of England until recently and therefore did not know about Charles or the guardianship. He has his Aunt, Lady Catherine, living with him but has lost his parents and his sister and, Elizabeth is led to believe, his wife. And when she finds a journal and reads it despite knowing it is not hers to read, she also begins to believe that he is a monster under the cold façade he presents. It is only when he leaves Pemberley for London after he has saved her from an fall down a well that his Fitzwilliam cousins and their parents and spouses show up for the Christmas holidays that Elizabeth realizes that she has made more than one erroneous assumption and that she owes that man a great apology.
We also read about some various people in the neighborhood: a Mrs. Green who seems to egg on Elizabeth's negative opinions about Darcy is one. Then Charles has nightmares and reports that a lady named George has been visiting him at night. Elizabeth's kind overtures towards a lady and her husband, owners of a bake shop in a nearby town lead to a mysterious pin's providing a clue to the mystery of Darcy's sister's "death". Then there is the brain damaged man who lives on Pemberley property, wandering and mumbling inappropriate words to those he meets. Elizabeth pities him and cannot understand Darcy's demand that she avoid him...or even more his demand that she never walk out alone.
Lady Catherine, living at Pemberley and making demands that the division of classes be maintained, tippling gin, and then also informing Elizabeth that she blames Darcy for the death of her daughter, Anne, is another strange circumstance that Elizabeth cannot quite understand. His actions seem to say he is a kind and caring master to the employees. His attentions to Elizabeth also seem contradictory to the opinion she has formed from reading that journal.
It is all a mystery and Elizabeth remembers how her father advised her that when working on a puzzle if later pieces don't seem to fit - perhaps the earlier pieces were misplaced. Could that be what she has here?
This story was well worth a second read.
March 31, 2023
Oh my lord, the feels get you from the very first pages.
ODC end up at Pemberley together, against both their wishes and snark does ensue. However, poor D -who is desperate for love and joy in his life- falls fast and hard. There are mysteries, secrets and loss to unravel and Elizabeth wastes no time doing so, thinking she will find ammunition to use to take Charlie back.
The dialog is great and the dynamics between the Fitzwilliam's was awesome (we usually get cliched snobbery).
Do not get me started on Mr. B. and Charlotte - whenever I come across this kind of version I SO want to see them get a comeuppance, sigh, doesn't usually happen.
Another fantastic book from this author.
ODC end up at Pemberley together, against both their wishes and snark does ensue. However, poor D -who is desperate for love and joy in his life- falls fast and hard. There are mysteries, secrets and loss to unravel and Elizabeth wastes no time doing so, thinking she will find ammunition to use to take Charlie back.
The dialog is great and the dynamics between the Fitzwilliam's was awesome (we usually get cliched snobbery).
Do not get me started on Mr. B. and Charlotte - whenever I come across this kind of version I SO want to see them get a comeuppance, sigh, doesn't usually happen.
Another fantastic book from this author.
November 11, 2021
Pride, Prejudice and Presumptions ....
.... might have been an appropriate subtitle. ODC both display all of those, but Elizabeth especially presumes quite a bit in this well-written, gothic style variation. It begins following a time of death of many, as illness swept Netherfield, Longbourn and Meryton, along with a stark landscape of ruined crops following drought and flooding. Dark setting indeed.
Elizabeth has given her word to Jane, upon her deathbed, to care for her infant son. Bingley, on the otherhand, has assigned Darcy to be little Charles’ guardian in his will, a document that Elizabeth cannot afford to take to the courts, let alone win. She begs Darcy to let her go to Pemberley as the now four-year old Charles’ governess.
Pemberley and Darcy have secrets and Elizabeth is determined to uncover them. Some discoveries, along with new acquaintances, lead her to make incorrect presumptions.
Despite being a somewhat darker story, which includes the description of some abuse, the entrance of the Fitzwilliam family, especially Lord Saye (a favorite character in other books by Amy D’Orazio), brings some welcome humour and nudging where necessary. Wink, wink. Gosh, I love him.
Another great read by this author. Always entertaining, a master at riveting dialogue, and always a page-turning plot, Amy D’Orazio never disappoints, which is why she is one of my favorite Jane Austen fan fiction authors. There are some proofreading errors.
November 10-11, 2021 - Audiobook
Very good narration by Brady Smith. There are some glitches with some repeated phrasing during stops and starts in the audio.
.... might have been an appropriate subtitle. ODC both display all of those, but Elizabeth especially presumes quite a bit in this well-written, gothic style variation. It begins following a time of death of many, as illness swept Netherfield, Longbourn and Meryton, along with a stark landscape of ruined crops following drought and flooding. Dark setting indeed.
Elizabeth has given her word to Jane, upon her deathbed, to care for her infant son. Bingley, on the otherhand, has assigned Darcy to be little Charles’ guardian in his will, a document that Elizabeth cannot afford to take to the courts, let alone win. She begs Darcy to let her go to Pemberley as the now four-year old Charles’ governess.
Pemberley and Darcy have secrets and Elizabeth is determined to uncover them. Some discoveries, along with new acquaintances, lead her to make incorrect presumptions.
Despite being a somewhat darker story, which includes the description of some abuse, the entrance of the Fitzwilliam family, especially Lord Saye (a favorite character in other books by Amy D’Orazio), brings some welcome humour and nudging where necessary. Wink, wink. Gosh, I love him.
Another great read by this author. Always entertaining, a master at riveting dialogue, and always a page-turning plot, Amy D’Orazio never disappoints, which is why she is one of my favorite Jane Austen fan fiction authors. There are some proofreading errors.
November 10-11, 2021 - Audiobook
Very good narration by Brady Smith. There are some glitches with some repeated phrasing during stops and starts in the audio.
April 16, 2020
This Darcy and Elizabeth story begins with the loss of Jane & Bingley to an illness sweeping the country. Jane entrusts her baby boy to her sister, Elizabeth. Four years later, Darcy comes to Longbourn to claim his ward, who he just learned about. He had never previously visited the area or even known that Bingley was married. For some reason he was compelled to agree that Elizabeth should accompany the young boy to Pemberley.
So many things don't make sense at Pemberley - was Mr Darcy married? who lived in the blue room? Why is everyone so sad? Why don't people talk to each other? Why does Lady Catherine live at Pemberley?
As they fight their attraction for each other, our dear couple solves the mysteries on their way to their happily ever after.
So many things don't make sense at Pemberley - was Mr Darcy married? who lived in the blue room? Why is everyone so sad? Why don't people talk to each other? Why does Lady Catherine live at Pemberley?
As they fight their attraction for each other, our dear couple solves the mysteries on their way to their happily ever after.
October 22, 2023
Holy moly, this book has angst! I started it this morning and didn't get anything else done during the day because I couldn't stand whatever was going on without knowing more. I can't say it was a highly romantic story or really enjoyable but it was a page turner.
May 14, 2020
"Have you ever made a promise that was so important you would rather die than fail?" (quote from the book)
I was thrilled when Ms. D'Orazio decided to publish this story. I first read it as a weekly posting and then it was offered up for free on her publishing site. However, I wanted it in paperback form...no, I needed it in paperback form for my library.
This is a poignant Gothic tale not only for the Bennets but for the Darcys. The year without a summer has wreaked havoc on England. It has also brought illness that has taken the lives of Mrs. Bennet, Lydia, Jane and her husband, Charles. It on Jane's deathbed that she extracts Elizabeth's promise to raise her son, Charles, as her own. All is well until Mr. Darcy arrives.
"He was a man mindful of his duty, yet time and again, he had failed. Time and again, those whom he loved met a fate they did not deserve because of his negligence." (quote from the book)
With a renewed sense of purpose, Mr. Darcy is determined to do better by little Charles. He just wasn't expecting to have to deal with Elizabeth Bennet as well. So why is he arriving several years later? Why must he rip Charles from all he has ever known? With great reluctance he allows Elizabeth to accompany Charles to Pemberley. But what she finds only deepens her confusion and inflames her imagination.
"Despite the echo of their footsteps, the silent weight of Pemberley pressed against them; even little Charles did not embark on his usual stream of chatter." (quote from the book)
Many secrets and mysteries abound at Pemberley, and Elizabeth is determined to unravel them. But is not the past best left behind? However, learning of the past may be the only way forward.
"Secrets are dreadful things." (quote from the book)
I can highly recommend this imaginative, atmospheric and beautifully written novel. It is angst-filled, emotive with touches of humour...Lord Saye. The villains...well, I will leave them to you to discover.
May 18, 2019
In this P&P variation disease has swept through Meryton, leaving behind the deaths of Mrs Bennet, Lydia, Jane and Charles Bingley. On her deathbed Jane asks Elizabeth to care for young Charles Bingley.
Four years later Mr Darcy comes to Longbourn to claim his ward. Arrangements result in young Charles and Elizabeth staying at Pemberley. But what secrets does the place hold, what is Darcy hiding. Elizabeth's imaginations runs away with her but can she come to the right conclusion or will she mistake Darcy's character.
An enjoyable well-written story.
Four years later Mr Darcy comes to Longbourn to claim his ward. Arrangements result in young Charles and Elizabeth staying at Pemberley. But what secrets does the place hold, what is Darcy hiding. Elizabeth's imaginations runs away with her but can she come to the right conclusion or will she mistake Darcy's character.
An enjoyable well-written story.
September 13, 2021
Reading The Mysteries of Pemberley at this time was a bit chilling. With all the fears of contracting the coronavirus it caused me horrifying visions of losing loved ones from this kind of plague. The death bed promise brought tears to my eyes. However I loved this book. It reminded me of the wonderful Gothic novels of my youth. House stories are what they were called then. This author weaves a tale that is quite unpredictable which is to her credit. I loved this Elizabeth. She would rather die than fail to keep her promise to her beloved sister Jane. She stands her ground to go with Jane's son Charles to Pemberley when Darcy claims he is named as guardian. There are so many mysteries in this book that its name is very appropriate. Shocking was Mr Bennet's disregard for his favorite daughter and Lady Catherine's unforgivable treachery! Very satisfying read, one Jane Austen would heartily recommend I am sure!
January 23, 2021
When Elizabeth Bennet Is A Little Bit Catherine…
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins 5 Years After Mr. Bingley Arrives in Hertfordshire
SYNOPSIS: In this variation, Mr. Darcy doesn’t accompany Mr. Bingley to Netherfield and Mr. Bingley happily marries Jane Bennet. But sadly soon after the birth of their son, they both fall ill from a frightening plague and perish. Elizabeth makes Jane a promise to raise young Charles Bingley as her own, and is happy to do so until an unknown man arrives to town saying he is Charles’s appointed guardian and wants to remove him to Pemberley to be under his sole care. As you might expect, Elizabeth does not allow this to take place without a fervent fight, and ends up being allowed to travel with young Charles and attend him at Pemberley. Elizabeth soon learns there is a lot of mysteries surrounding Charles’s guardian. Where has he been these past 4 years? What happened to his wife? What kind of man is he truly? Is he a dangerous and violent villain? Or is he a kind and generous man beset by tragedy and guilt?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Pemberley Becomes Gothic: Death, darkness, and destruction has entered the pages of Pride and Prejudice. Pemberley, and England as a whole, is not the beatific and flourishing estate we once knew. It is the year without a summer and severe weather has brought perpetual gloom and hardship for many. Between the weather, famine, past tragedies, undiscovered secrets, and a grieving yet taciturn Mr. Darcy – Amy D’Orazio blends together an intriguing array of gothic elements!
- Dramatic Irony: Oh, this was so much fun! I was excessively diverted by the number of times the reader knows something the characters don’t know. Especially when it leads to Elizabeth formulating an assumption that the reader knows is wrong! It gives new tension and excitement for the reader while we wait for the truth (we know) to be revealed! What brilliant use of dramatic irony!!
- Elizabeth: There are so many excellent qualities to admire in this portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet. I loved her strength and fortitude – how she strives to make the best of any situation, her curious nature and sharp mind – I definitely forgive her for reading the journal (would have done the same myself), and her compassionate heart – I love her efforts to bring healing or assistance to others. In addition, I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Elizabeth’s care for and interactions with young Charles. She is all that is sweet and protective with him, and he is adorable in every way.
- In Suspense: Even though the readers know some things Elizabeth doesn’t, we are still left in the dark about other things. And in some cases we know the what, but not the how or why. I love that we don’t know all the answers and how we are kept in suspense. Ms. D’Orazio is quite adept at building tension through suspense and stoking the reader’s curiosity to an intense level!
- Amy D’Orazio Signatures: I love reading Ms. D’Orazio’s works for a variety of reasons – she is a masterful storyteller that weaves together well-conceived plots with exquisite emotional depth. And now that I have read four of her published works I am happy to recognize some “Amy D’Orazio Signatures” that appear in each of them, such as torturously slow reveals, achingly romantic moments between Darcy and Elizabeth, and an appearance from our favorite irreverent and meddlesome rogue, Viscount Saye! *sigh* I deeply love each of these Amy D’Orazio Signatures!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Web Gets A Little Tangled: With so many intriguing elements and plot lines weaving together in this tale, I did feel that some got a little bit tangled. I mostly felt this in the third act where we learn some characters weren’t integral to the story and some maybe needed more page time.
CONCLUSION:
The Mysteries of Pemberley is an enthralling suspenseful tale that beautifully blends together inventive gothic elements with a redeeming romance. Like Elizabeth Bennet, you will have the desire to explore, ruminate, and make assumptions about Mr. Darcy and his estate until each of the mysteries of Pemberley are revealed! I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins 5 Years After Mr. Bingley Arrives in Hertfordshire
SYNOPSIS: In this variation, Mr. Darcy doesn’t accompany Mr. Bingley to Netherfield and Mr. Bingley happily marries Jane Bennet. But sadly soon after the birth of their son, they both fall ill from a frightening plague and perish. Elizabeth makes Jane a promise to raise young Charles Bingley as her own, and is happy to do so until an unknown man arrives to town saying he is Charles’s appointed guardian and wants to remove him to Pemberley to be under his sole care. As you might expect, Elizabeth does not allow this to take place without a fervent fight, and ends up being allowed to travel with young Charles and attend him at Pemberley. Elizabeth soon learns there is a lot of mysteries surrounding Charles’s guardian. Where has he been these past 4 years? What happened to his wife? What kind of man is he truly? Is he a dangerous and violent villain? Or is he a kind and generous man beset by tragedy and guilt?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Pemberley Becomes Gothic: Death, darkness, and destruction has entered the pages of Pride and Prejudice. Pemberley, and England as a whole, is not the beatific and flourishing estate we once knew. It is the year without a summer and severe weather has brought perpetual gloom and hardship for many. Between the weather, famine, past tragedies, undiscovered secrets, and a grieving yet taciturn Mr. Darcy – Amy D’Orazio blends together an intriguing array of gothic elements!
- Dramatic Irony: Oh, this was so much fun! I was excessively diverted by the number of times the reader knows something the characters don’t know. Especially when it leads to Elizabeth formulating an assumption that the reader knows is wrong! It gives new tension and excitement for the reader while we wait for the truth (we know) to be revealed! What brilliant use of dramatic irony!!
- Elizabeth: There are so many excellent qualities to admire in this portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet. I loved her strength and fortitude – how she strives to make the best of any situation, her curious nature and sharp mind – I definitely forgive her for reading the journal (would have done the same myself), and her compassionate heart – I love her efforts to bring healing or assistance to others. In addition, I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Elizabeth’s care for and interactions with young Charles. She is all that is sweet and protective with him, and he is adorable in every way.
- In Suspense: Even though the readers know some things Elizabeth doesn’t, we are still left in the dark about other things. And in some cases we know the what, but not the how or why. I love that we don’t know all the answers and how we are kept in suspense. Ms. D’Orazio is quite adept at building tension through suspense and stoking the reader’s curiosity to an intense level!
- Amy D’Orazio Signatures: I love reading Ms. D’Orazio’s works for a variety of reasons – she is a masterful storyteller that weaves together well-conceived plots with exquisite emotional depth. And now that I have read four of her published works I am happy to recognize some “Amy D’Orazio Signatures” that appear in each of them, such as torturously slow reveals, achingly romantic moments between Darcy and Elizabeth, and an appearance from our favorite irreverent and meddlesome rogue, Viscount Saye! *sigh* I deeply love each of these Amy D’Orazio Signatures!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Web Gets A Little Tangled: With so many intriguing elements and plot lines weaving together in this tale, I did feel that some got a little bit tangled. I mostly felt this in the third act where we learn some characters weren’t integral to the story and some maybe needed more page time.
CONCLUSION:
The Mysteries of Pemberley is an enthralling suspenseful tale that beautifully blends together inventive gothic elements with a redeeming romance. Like Elizabeth Bennet, you will have the desire to explore, ruminate, and make assumptions about Mr. Darcy and his estate until each of the mysteries of Pemberley are revealed! I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
October 16, 2022
I’m a big fan of Amy D’Orazio, so it pains me to only give this 3 stars. The writing was good. The mystery was just weird and sloppy. The whodunnit was such a letdown because the villain has just died & we don’t get a confrontation. I’m vindictive when it comes to my fictional baddies. I won’t apologize for wanting to see some suffering & miserable consequences for evil deeds. 😈
I’m pretty sure the gothic bologna sandwich wouldn’t have bothered me so much if the romance had moved my heart. Darcy is all judgy about Meryton & the country bumpkins populating it. Then, he agrees to Elizabeth’s pleas to be allowed to accompany her nephew to Pemberley as his governess. Once we get to Pemberley, the snobbery is gone. Elizabeth is treated as a guest instead of a governess. What’s up with the Presto Change-o Darcy? Anyway, this didn’t give me any butterflies. If the author is going weak on the romance, I need the mystery to be creepy good.
I’m pretty sure the gothic bologna sandwich wouldn’t have bothered me so much if the romance had moved my heart. Darcy is all judgy about Meryton & the country bumpkins populating it. Then, he agrees to Elizabeth’s pleas to be allowed to accompany her nephew to Pemberley as his governess. Once we get to Pemberley, the snobbery is gone. Elizabeth is treated as a guest instead of a governess. What’s up with the Presto Change-o Darcy? Anyway, this didn’t give me any butterflies. If the author is going weak on the romance, I need the mystery to be creepy good.
October 30, 2022
4,5
Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
One of Amy D’Orazio’s characteristics as a writer is the ability to write incredible first chapters and Mysteries of Pemberley is no exception, once you start reading it, it becomes difficult to let it go.
In this book Mr. Darcy doesn’t travel to Hertfordshire with Mr. Bingley and because of that the story will change dramatically. Mr Bingley marries Jane Bennet shortly after having met her and the couple has a happy marriage for a short period of time. However, soon after their first child is born, they both die victims of a plague that also takes the lives of most of Elizabeth’s family. Upon her sister’s deathbed, Elizabeth promises to take care of her nephew as if he were her own, however, Mr. Bingley had appointed Mr. Darcy as the child’s legal guardian, and the story starts when he arrives to take young Charles Bingley to Pemberley with him. Because of her promise, Elizabeth feels she needs to stay with little Charles, therefore, she travels with Mr. Darcy to Pemberley where she will find herself quite alone, with only a man she hardly knows, and old Lady Catherine de Bourgh as company.
This book takes a darker route with a gothic premise where mystery takes the centre stage, and Elizabeth is forced to wonder what may have happened in the past to make Mr. Darcy such a sombre and sad person. I absolutely loved the tone of the book which is beautifully written in an engaging manner that kept me reading nonstop. There are a few misleading hints concerning the several mysteries involving Pemberley, and that is part of the appeal in this book because the reader cannot guess anything that has or will happen.
On the second half of the book, the darker tone is replaced by a slowly brighter style that is still full of emotional depth, but also light moments provided by Viscount Saye who makes an appearance along with his entire family. Even though I enjoyed the family’s appearance, this is when some of my doubts started to appear. Why has Darcy not spoken to his cousin Col. Fitzwilliam in years? Why did his family left him all alone to appear for an intervention only at this time? And why didn’t we see more interaction between Lady Catherine and Anne? Their relationship, and the reason why Lady Catherine was at Pemberley was probably my main quibble with this book because I never understood the reasoning behind it.
Despite the few questions that arose while I was reading the book, I absolutely loved reading Mysteries of Pemberley. It is an incredible and innovative story that is captivating, powerful and romantic. As always Amy D’Orazio presented us with an intense and well written story that is able to engage any reader!
Mysteries of Pemberley is a romance full of twists and suspense that will keep readers glued to its pages and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good story and a good romance.
Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
One of Amy D’Orazio’s characteristics as a writer is the ability to write incredible first chapters and Mysteries of Pemberley is no exception, once you start reading it, it becomes difficult to let it go.
In this book Mr. Darcy doesn’t travel to Hertfordshire with Mr. Bingley and because of that the story will change dramatically. Mr Bingley marries Jane Bennet shortly after having met her and the couple has a happy marriage for a short period of time. However, soon after their first child is born, they both die victims of a plague that also takes the lives of most of Elizabeth’s family. Upon her sister’s deathbed, Elizabeth promises to take care of her nephew as if he were her own, however, Mr. Bingley had appointed Mr. Darcy as the child’s legal guardian, and the story starts when he arrives to take young Charles Bingley to Pemberley with him. Because of her promise, Elizabeth feels she needs to stay with little Charles, therefore, she travels with Mr. Darcy to Pemberley where she will find herself quite alone, with only a man she hardly knows, and old Lady Catherine de Bourgh as company.
This book takes a darker route with a gothic premise where mystery takes the centre stage, and Elizabeth is forced to wonder what may have happened in the past to make Mr. Darcy such a sombre and sad person. I absolutely loved the tone of the book which is beautifully written in an engaging manner that kept me reading nonstop. There are a few misleading hints concerning the several mysteries involving Pemberley, and that is part of the appeal in this book because the reader cannot guess anything that has or will happen.
On the second half of the book, the darker tone is replaced by a slowly brighter style that is still full of emotional depth, but also light moments provided by Viscount Saye who makes an appearance along with his entire family. Even though I enjoyed the family’s appearance, this is when some of my doubts started to appear. Why has Darcy not spoken to his cousin Col. Fitzwilliam in years? Why did his family left him all alone to appear for an intervention only at this time? And why didn’t we see more interaction between Lady Catherine and Anne? Their relationship, and the reason why Lady Catherine was at Pemberley was probably my main quibble with this book because I never understood the reasoning behind it.
Despite the few questions that arose while I was reading the book, I absolutely loved reading Mysteries of Pemberley. It is an incredible and innovative story that is captivating, powerful and romantic. As always Amy D’Orazio presented us with an intense and well written story that is able to engage any reader!
Mysteries of Pemberley is a romance full of twists and suspense that will keep readers glued to its pages and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good story and a good romance.
April 12, 2019
This is a fabulous book I highly recommend it to anyone who likes JAFF. I read on a forum it was the highlight of my reading week and I will purchase it to read again loved it.
Want to read
April 10, 2019i have the pdf version of book
June 10, 2020
This Pride and Prejudice variation started out something like a romantic suspense story, until about halfway through, and then it was more of a mystery story, with red herrings, clues, and an intensity of purpose that kept me reading. I loved it. It's not your typical P&P variation, and the plot starts out different from the original right from the start. Some of the regular characters turn out to be very different from our familiar take on them, but I liked it a lot. It's just darker, almost gothic. But good!
April 24, 2019
This book starts off with Elizabeth making a promise to Jane to take care of her son Charles after her death. Four years later Mr. Darcy shows up to take Charles to Pemberley to raise him as per Bingley's will. Lizzy comes to Pemberley with them as she can't stand to be separated from baby Charles. Once she's there she uncovers some of the secrets of the great house. Misperceptions and miscommunication arise from the members of the household and the neighborhood. All of the mystery surrounding Pemberley reaches a sweet and satisfying conclusion with the return of a beloved family member.
This novel did drag for me until I reached about 35% into it and then I couldn't put it down. I definitely recommend reading this book. I can't wait to see what other great books Quills and Quartos puts out in the future.
Rating: 4½ stars out of 5
This novel did drag for me until I reached about 35% into it and then I couldn't put it down. I definitely recommend reading this book. I can't wait to see what other great books Quills and Quartos puts out in the future.
Rating: 4½ stars out of 5
March 31, 2020
I Hear Such Different Accounts Of You...
This story pulled me in from the very first pages. Sickness, despair and desolation sweep the town of Meryton and its countryside, not sparing the Longbourn and Netherfield estates. A year earlier, Darcy did not come to Hertfordshire with Bingley. He was not there to attend the assembly. Events in Ramsgate had taken a very different turn. Elizabeth and Darcy do not meet until some five years have passed, and those years have not been easy. I was fascinated with this journey of ODC; off canon, but I felt each reacted true to character within this believable premise. The story has a gothic tone. There is just enough mystery, doubt and secrets to keep Elizabeth anxiously wondering about that handsome brooding Darcy, and enough romance to fan the fire that is banked in them both. We see little of the Bennets besides Mr. Bennet, and a few mentions of the Gardiners. Darcy’s Fitzwilliam relatives bring some family drama into the mix and moments of relief from the somber tone, particularly in the irreverent humor and brash but entertaining form of Darcy’s cousin, Lord Saye.
Great page turning read!
This story pulled me in from the very first pages. Sickness, despair and desolation sweep the town of Meryton and its countryside, not sparing the Longbourn and Netherfield estates. A year earlier, Darcy did not come to Hertfordshire with Bingley. He was not there to attend the assembly. Events in Ramsgate had taken a very different turn. Elizabeth and Darcy do not meet until some five years have passed, and those years have not been easy. I was fascinated with this journey of ODC; off canon, but I felt each reacted true to character within this believable premise. The story has a gothic tone. There is just enough mystery, doubt and secrets to keep Elizabeth anxiously wondering about that handsome brooding Darcy, and enough romance to fan the fire that is banked in them both. We see little of the Bennets besides Mr. Bennet, and a few mentions of the Gardiners. Darcy’s Fitzwilliam relatives bring some family drama into the mix and moments of relief from the somber tone, particularly in the irreverent humor and brash but entertaining form of Darcy’s cousin, Lord Saye.
Great page turning read!
Want to read
April 10, 2019I haven't read this yet-- but if you'd like to obtain your own copy (PDF or .mobi edition), just stop by the publisher's website and sign up for their newsletter:
https://www.quillsandquartos.com/blog...
https://www.quillsandquartos.com/blog...
February 12, 2023
I’m not sure how to rate this one because I wasn’t a fan of the second half of the book but that’s just me, adventures are not my cup of tea. The first half is great, the writing style smooth.
June 9, 2023
This was a second reading and won’t be my last. I love this book.
Dark beginning and dark themes which I don’t usually like.
I have so many highlights I could just do the whole book especially any scene with Lord Saye.
This goes beyond JAFF and is a testament to living through awful circumstances and surviving them. I found it inspiring.
Dark beginning and dark themes which I don’t usually like.
I have so many highlights I could just do the whole book especially any scene with Lord Saye.
This goes beyond JAFF and is a testament to living through awful circumstances and surviving them. I found it inspiring.
August 6, 2024
DNF‘ed. Even though it was the second time listening.
I‘m gonna rate the Book 3,5 Stars (It was such a good one when I first listened to it. Very intriguing and couldn‘t put ut down.
This time though it changed because I just did not enjoy the narration and it took my fun away. That‘s also why I reduced Stars.
I do recommend the book but rather physical form/E-book.
I‘m sorry.
I‘m gonna rate the Book 3,5 Stars (It was such a good one when I first listened to it. Very intriguing and couldn‘t put ut down.
This time though it changed because I just did not enjoy the narration and it took my fun away. That‘s also why I reduced Stars.
I do recommend the book but rather physical form/E-book.
I‘m sorry.
September 12, 2022
This is in no way my normal reading material, & while I don’t think I would like it in regular rotation; the novelty of the mystery & ‘The Who dun it’ were quite fun!!
The book is set up as a gothic romance novel- P&P variation & it does very well sticking to the general heart & outline of the original while also being completely fresh & exciting. My only real complaint was that I wish the book had focused more on Darcy & Elizabeth & their romance. I honestly do not understand why authors seem to think you need to abandon one genre for the other, when you can in fact have both.
That said it was still a beautiful story of family trauma, healing & moving on. The characters were rich, & I even reluctantly admit that the author even got me with some false trails to solving the mystery.
I would also have liked to see more of Charles in the book & am very upset there was no epilogue!
The book is set up as a gothic romance novel- P&P variation & it does very well sticking to the general heart & outline of the original while also being completely fresh & exciting. My only real complaint was that I wish the book had focused more on Darcy & Elizabeth & their romance. I honestly do not understand why authors seem to think you need to abandon one genre for the other, when you can in fact have both.
That said it was still a beautiful story of family trauma, healing & moving on. The characters were rich, & I even reluctantly admit that the author even got me with some false trails to solving the mystery.
I would also have liked to see more of Charles in the book & am very upset there was no epilogue!
May 31, 2020
Surprisingly good
I wasn't expecting the story to be quite as captivating as it was! The title and cover didn't really call to me, but once I realized the author, I decided to see. The author always writes wonderful, rich stories and this is no exception. I will say that this deals with both physical and some sexual abuse of a woman and as such should be approached carefully for those that might find that upsetting.
I wasn't expecting the story to be quite as captivating as it was! The title and cover didn't really call to me, but once I realized the author, I decided to see. The author always writes wonderful, rich stories and this is no exception. I will say that this deals with both physical and some sexual abuse of a woman and as such should be approached carefully for those that might find that upsetting.
June 30, 2020
This was my first time reading a gothic P&P story and I loved it!!! As one would expect from a gothic tale, this story is filled with the sadness & the sorrow of painful loss & betrayal mixed with mystery & danger. This is definitely not a light hearted uplifting book. It engages your heart strings as well as your interest right from the start. We begin with the heartbreaking death of both Bingley & Jane leaving behind a baby boy that Lizzy promises to care for as her own. Through all the tragedy that has been endured, it is the love of this child that brings our characters together & helps unravel the mysteries and shine a bit of hope and life back into the shell of Pemberley & it’s inhabitants.
November 12, 2024
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. This variation is written in the style of gothic novels of the regency era, such as Northanger Abbey. Elizabeth Bennet made her sister Jane a promise on her deathbed that she would love and care for her son, young Charles Bingley, like her very own child; and so she did, for four years, until the boys guardian, Fitzwilliam Darcy showed up in Meryton, insisting on removing the boy from his aunt, his life and everything he knew, to be raised at Pemberley. Determined to honor Jane, Elizabeth insists on going with them, soon finding herself installed at Pemberley as an unwanted guest of Mr Darcy and his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. It’s the year without a summer and Pemberley is austere and ghostly, with shadows and secrets lurking in every corner. With too much time to herself, Elizabeth soon finds herself wondering about Mr Darcy’s past, and the identity of a young lady who she reads about in the lady’s journal. She soon thinks she has a faithful sketch of Mr Darcy’s character until one key truth emerges which shatters all her prepossessions. Bit by bit the mysteries of Pemberley unravel, but what will she find at the end of it? 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. This variation is written in the style of gothic novels of the regency era, such as Northanger Abbey. Elizabeth Bennet made her sister Jane a promise on her deathbed that she would love and care for her son, young Charles Bingley, like her very own child; and so she did, for four years, until the boys guardian, Fitzwilliam Darcy showed up in Meryton, insisting on removing the boy from his aunt, his life and everything he knew, to be raised at Pemberley. Determined to honor Jane, Elizabeth insists on going with them, soon finding herself installed at Pemberley as an unwanted guest of Mr Darcy and his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. It’s the year without a summer and Pemberley is austere and ghostly, with shadows and secrets lurking in every corner. With too much time to herself, Elizabeth soon finds herself wondering about Mr Darcy’s past, and the identity of a young lady who she reads about in the lady’s journal. She soon thinks she has a faithful sketch of Mr Darcy’s character until one key truth emerges which shatters all her prepossessions. Bit by bit the mysteries of Pemberley unravel, but what will she find at the end of it? 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.
November 16, 2021
This is a gothic take on P&P. I probably give this 2.5 rounded up to 3. There is a lot of loss on both sides of ODC. The mystery is pretty intriguing and different than other variations I’ve read, but it is pretty slow to unfold. There are quite a few misconceptions by Elizabeth similar to those in Northanger Abbey.
I had a couple of issues with the story. First, I’m not sure the romance was well developed. Once Elizabeth learns Darcy is not the villain she believes he was at first (like a legit needs to be in jail/hung villain, not just an arrogant jerk), she suddenly really likes him. Darcy similarly thinks he cannot possibly marry her, but then suddenly feels like he can. I feel like more was needed in between.
Second, and this may be a bigger issue, is the final fight before the HEA. It’s an awkward misunderstanding that seemed poorly laid out with an odd person sitting in watching the argument. And the person at fault doesn’t really apologize enough for me. I think this could have been played for better angst, or avoided all together, but instead it’s an odd, half-hearted fight, resolved too quickly.
There are some minor gripes: I didn’t care for the pushy involvement of the Fitzwilliam cousins who crash at Pemberley uninvited and are generally nosey in order to push forward the romance. I also didn’t care for the audiobook version. There were some editing and pronunciation issues throughout and I just didn’t feel like he captured the right emotions in several key scenes, especially for Elizabeth.
I had a couple of issues with the story. First, I’m not sure the romance was well developed. Once Elizabeth learns Darcy is not the villain she believes he was at first (like a legit needs to be in jail/hung villain, not just an arrogant jerk), she suddenly really likes him. Darcy similarly thinks he cannot possibly marry her, but then suddenly feels like he can. I feel like more was needed in between.
Second, and this may be a bigger issue, is the final fight before the HEA. It’s an awkward misunderstanding that seemed poorly laid out with an odd person sitting in watching the argument. And the person at fault doesn’t really apologize enough for me. I think this could have been played for better angst, or avoided all together, but instead it’s an odd, half-hearted fight, resolved too quickly.
There are some minor gripes: I didn’t care for the pushy involvement of the Fitzwilliam cousins who crash at Pemberley uninvited and are generally nosey in order to push forward the romance. I also didn’t care for the audiobook version. There were some editing and pronunciation issues throughout and I just didn’t feel like he captured the right emotions in several key scenes, especially for Elizabeth.
May 2, 2020
A good clean retelling. In this Lizzy has lost her sister and mr.bingley to the scarlet or some such. Their offspring is put in her care for four years after she swears to Jane to bring him up like a Mother. Then Mr.Darcy appears, law on his side, claiming the child as he is the legal guardian of the will. Lizzy try’s to dissuade him, her Father is no help, and in the end she manages to persuade a reluctant and very damaged Darcy to take her with him as a governess.
This was a good book, though I’m sure JA might have made sport of it. I mean it’s a gothic novel and Lizzy is a little like Catherine Morland. Darcy holds many secrets, but holds a dark attraction to Lizzy. She is very trapped but very strong throughout.
Vague spoilers here*
I did guess a lot about the man wandering in the grounds (straight away actually. See notes) and about the diary and about nan. I liked Anne in this, I always like it when she gets away from her mother. The OC is great. The only thing I’d have liked more of a slow slide into attraction for D+E. I’d have liked it with sprinkle more of sexy. Not necessarily dirty, but an erotic moment or two. There is one that is nice, but clean. I don’t do clean very often so probably best to ignore me. Really kept my attention. Four stars.
This was a good book, though I’m sure JA might have made sport of it. I mean it’s a gothic novel and Lizzy is a little like Catherine Morland. Darcy holds many secrets, but holds a dark attraction to Lizzy. She is very trapped but very strong throughout.
Vague spoilers here*
I did guess a lot about the man wandering in the grounds (straight away actually. See notes) and about the diary and about nan. I liked Anne in this, I always like it when she gets away from her mother. The OC is great. The only thing I’d have liked more of a slow slide into attraction for D+E. I’d have liked it with sprinkle more of sexy. Not necessarily dirty, but an erotic moment or two. There is one that is nice, but clean. I don’t do clean very often so probably best to ignore me. Really kept my attention. Four stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2020
Unusual and complicated story!
I started to follow this story when the writer was posting chapters on fan fiction sites and found it interesting. Some parts have been changed but it makes it better. The story is basically about secrets and the lies we tell ourselves. The Bingleys have died of a infectious fever and Elizabeth is raising their young son for the first 4 years of his life until Darcy comes for him. Darcy was named as the guardian in their WILL but was in the Americas for those years. He was grieving the suspected death of his sister who was " married " to Wickham.
There are many unusual characters in this story that takes place mainly in Derbyshire. A smuggler, a baker, a companion, and then a girl " ghost" named George who plays with Charlie at night. But the most important character to me is Viscount Saye...he's the Colonel 's older brother and quite funny with his comments. Definitely not the stuck-up prig as he's typically characterized.
Oh, Darcy owns a property in Virginia named Hickory Hill which in real life was owned by a family named Wickham for many years!
I started to follow this story when the writer was posting chapters on fan fiction sites and found it interesting. Some parts have been changed but it makes it better. The story is basically about secrets and the lies we tell ourselves. The Bingleys have died of a infectious fever and Elizabeth is raising their young son for the first 4 years of his life until Darcy comes for him. Darcy was named as the guardian in their WILL but was in the Americas for those years. He was grieving the suspected death of his sister who was " married " to Wickham.
There are many unusual characters in this story that takes place mainly in Derbyshire. A smuggler, a baker, a companion, and then a girl " ghost" named George who plays with Charlie at night. But the most important character to me is Viscount Saye...he's the Colonel 's older brother and quite funny with his comments. Definitely not the stuck-up prig as he's typically characterized.
Oh, Darcy owns a property in Virginia named Hickory Hill which in real life was owned by a family named Wickham for many years!
July 17, 2021
Wow, what a great mystery story! Just finished the book and enjoyed it so much! The mysteries were well done, I thought. I saw some of it coming but not all of it and for a while I had some other ideas that were wrong, so well done on that; I do like some intimation of what's to come, but it's even better when I think one thing, then something else, then perhaps something else. :-)
I loved the character of Viscount Saye (mostly). General Fitzwilliam perhaps not so much, and Anne - ugh. But Lady Catherine was beyond belief!
Anything else I add would be too much of a spoiler, but I did love the way Darcy and Elizabeth *finally* come to an understanding. It was a bit over the top how Elizabeth jumped to fantabulous conclusions early on from little evidence, then later she was suddenly perspicacious about the mysteries, which eventually lead to the answers. But I suppose if she were more realistic, it would have been a different story, haha.
Highly recommend this book and all the other books by this author! Even though her books are on Kindle Unlimited, I have purchased all of them and the next one is on pre-order.
I loved the character of Viscount Saye (mostly). General Fitzwilliam perhaps not so much, and Anne - ugh. But Lady Catherine was beyond belief!
Anything else I add would be too much of a spoiler, but I did love the way Darcy and Elizabeth *finally* come to an understanding. It was a bit over the top how Elizabeth jumped to fantabulous conclusions early on from little evidence, then later she was suddenly perspicacious about the mysteries, which eventually lead to the answers. But I suppose if she were more realistic, it would have been a different story, haha.
Highly recommend this book and all the other books by this author! Even though her books are on Kindle Unlimited, I have purchased all of them and the next one is on pre-order.
May 28, 2020
A Mystery And A Love Story
This story starts about 5 years after the original Jane Austen book. Elizabeth moves to Pemberley with Mr Darcy to accompany her nephew, who is Mr. Darcy’s ward. Elizabeth finds a beautiful home that nevertheless, has many secrets. Amazingly Elizabeth goes with him despite knowing very little about his personal life. The story originally drags but at about 50% of the book it begins to speed up. Elizabeth begins to figure out the mysteries that have eluded Fitzwilliam Darcy and his cousin Richard Fitzwilliam.
Several events occur prior to the start of the book and sets the plot. A scandal can quickly destroys a woman’s life. Family pride allows one family member to mistreat and scorn another member of the family. These events set up the mysteries of the story.
The love story is visible from the beginning of the story. It’s a sweet love story between two very passionate people. The story is overall interesting but a little slow in the beginning. I really enjoyed this book. It mixes a love story and a mystery and is well done.
This story starts about 5 years after the original Jane Austen book. Elizabeth moves to Pemberley with Mr Darcy to accompany her nephew, who is Mr. Darcy’s ward. Elizabeth finds a beautiful home that nevertheless, has many secrets. Amazingly Elizabeth goes with him despite knowing very little about his personal life. The story originally drags but at about 50% of the book it begins to speed up. Elizabeth begins to figure out the mysteries that have eluded Fitzwilliam Darcy and his cousin Richard Fitzwilliam.
Several events occur prior to the start of the book and sets the plot. A scandal can quickly destroys a woman’s life. Family pride allows one family member to mistreat and scorn another member of the family. These events set up the mysteries of the story.
The love story is visible from the beginning of the story. It’s a sweet love story between two very passionate people. The story is overall interesting but a little slow in the beginning. I really enjoyed this book. It mixes a love story and a mystery and is well done.
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