A Timely Elopement: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

by Joana Starnes

What if Mr Darcy’s first proposal was interrupted by a bearer of ill tidings? The worst tidings: an elopement!
Ah, but whose elopement would allow Elizabeth and Mr Darcy to spend quite so much time together and overcome their prejudices and his stubborn pride?

Genres: Romance, Regency, Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Historical, Fiction, Fan Fiction

175 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 3, 2020

About the author

Joana Starnes lives in the south of England with her family. She swapped several hats over the years – physician, lecturer, clinical data analyst – but feels most comfortable in a bonnet. She has been living in Georgian England for decades in her imagination, and plans to continue in that vein till she lays hands on a time machine. She loves to look for glimpses of Pemberley and Jane Austen’s world, and to write about Regency England and Mr Darcy falling in love with Elizabeth Bennet over and over and over again.

She is the author of ten Austen-inspired novels and a contributor to the Quill Ink Anthologies. Joana’s novels are all available on Amazon in Kindle Unlimited and in paperback, and some have also been released in Audible.

You can connect with Joana on: Goodreads ; Facebook ; Twitter ; Instagram ; Website and at Austen Variations or visit Joana’s Facebook page All Roads Lead to Pemberley for places and details that have inspired her novels.

Reviews

[wosedwew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sleep, riches, and health to be truly enjoyed must be interrupted. ~ Johann Paul Friedrich Richter

Sleep, riches, and health, maybe … but a marriage proposal interrupted?

“A Timely Elopement” opens with Fitzwilliam Darcy at the parsonage beginning his avowal of love and admiration to Miss Elizabeth Bennet. His cousin, everyone’s favorite Colonel, interrupts with news: their cousin, Anne de Bourgh has eloped with George Wickham.

Wickham’s motivations are obvious but what could possibly motivate Anne to this extreme? Where is the couple now?

Elizabeth has no opportunity to refuse a proposal that only almost happens. But through the men’s discussion of Wickham, she learns just what a scoundrel her former favorite is. Her response must wait until later as the Collinses return home in dire straits. Lady Catherine has reason to assign blame to them.

But I will wear my heart upon my sleeve... ~ William Shakespeare [Othello, I, 1, Iago]

Lady Catherine commandeers Elizabeth’s company on her journey to London. After the first night, Elizabeth removes to the Gardiners’ home but Lady Catherine continues to refer to her as her companion.

Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam hire spies to aid in discovering the runaways’ whereabouts. Searches for marriage records produce nothing.

In the midst of the chaos, Darcy and Elizabeth must reach a resolution of their own.

All of Joana Starnes' stories are well-written, edited, and proofread. I love them.

I received this book through an online promotion. Many thanks to the author and publishers.

A happy marriage is the union of two good forgivers. ~ Ruth Bell Graham

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+ stars!

Such a fun, brilliantly developed plot! It starts with an attention-grabbing first scene that sets the tone for the entire book, which delights in setting things up to go "zig" but instead goes "zag."

Darcy's all geared up to propose marriage to Elizabeth at Hunsford. He's certain, of course, that she'll accept him, but it's still a significant moment that he's tense about. He's barely started his speech (at least he got through the "You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you" part) before Colonel Fitzwilliam bursts in with the news that Anne de Bourgh has eloped...with Mr. Wickham! Elizabeth barely digests this information before hearing that Wickham had previously attempted elopement with Darcy's fifteen-year-old sister. As she's reeling from these revelations, Darcy reluctantly bids a loving adieu, clearly assuming that she's amenable to becoming his wife. Elizabeth starts to come up with a tactful way to let him down, but Mr. and Mrs. Collins arrive, and he must slip out before they see him.

So Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam are off chasing after their cousin and the despicable Mr. Wickham. Mr. and Mrs. Collins are in disgrace for having recalled Mr. Wickham to Miss de Bourgh's attention by mentioning they'd met him in Hertfordshire. (Charlotte even unwittingly facilitated a clandestine correspondence between the two, but fortunately Lady C doesn't know that.) Shortly after her nephews leave, Lady Catherine follows, and she requires Elizabeth to provide companionship during her journey into London, as Mrs. Jenkinson had accompanied the missing duo.

As circumstances develop, Elizabeth and Darcy get plenty of opportunities for private conversation - though never enough for Darcy's satisfaction. Ms. Starnes is one of the best at capturing Elizabeth's wit and Darcy struggling to keep up. Yes, they have misunderstandings but, mercifully, the plot never dwells on them, allowing the two to clear things up without making mountains out of molehills. The primary plot has enough going on to provide plenty of interest, especially once Darcy realizes he must do some hard work to win the woman he loves. Ms. Starnes's more amorous scenes find the perfect balance, with declarations of love sounding real rather than like lines from a melodramatic soap opera. Lovers of well-written romance will adore this.

The Anne-and-Wickham storyline is positively inspired. No spoilers here, but expect the unexpected.

I've read all of Ms. Starnes's Pride and Prejudice variations, and I think this is her best yet. Adventure, romance, humor and surprises - this story has everything!

I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book with no promise of a review, favorable or otherwise.

[Sheila Majczan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Told from Darcy’s POV we begin at the Hunsford parsonage where he is interrupted just as he begins that ill-fated proposal. His cousin, the Colonel rushes in to demand his attendance at Rosings as their cousin, Anne, has eloped…with Wickham. And then, wonder of wonders, Lady Catherine demands that Elizabeth accompany her to London as she will keep the Lady better entertained than others, i.e., Mrs. Jenkinson. Darcy views this as a chance to be with Elizabeth, who, in truth was not granted time to answer him as the offer was not completed. Know that this Darcy, too, expected that his offer would have been accepted.

So it is that while in London Darcy has two matters on his mind. He and the Colonel have hired a number of men (ones who fit better into the environs that must be searched). They look for evidence that Wickham has purchased a license. Meanwhile Elizabeth, who is at Darcy’s town house upon arrival, meets Darcy’s sister and Richard’s parents. However Elizabeth is determined that she will stay with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner.

Darcy makes many discoveries during this time. Not only does he learns that not all of Elizabeth’s family give her reasons to blush but he also sees how dear they are to her and realizes that he could never expect her to be happy if he demanded that they not be part of their married life. He also observes how others esteem Elizabeth, how any man would be proud to have her on his arm…permanently. And then there is one man who seems determined to also pursue Elizabeth…and has no qualms about her lack of dowry or connections.

Yes, Darcy also has to learn about his mistake with Bingley and Jane and Elizabeth has learned much about Wickham with the whole “elopement” situation. Thus both learn about mistaken impressions and, even as they spend time among company, grow to know each other better and change their opinions and feelings.

This story, of course, has a HEA for our dear couple but it was touching to read Darcy’s thoughts and misgivings as he learns to become a better man and also to accept all there is to learn about Elizabeth, her character and the family who helped form her.

I have read all this author's stories and she remains one of my favorite. I highly recommend this and all her other stories.

[Carole (in Canada) · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Sweet Insanity" (quote from the book)

The 'Queen of Angst' has provided us with a lighter touch in her newest creation. But don't let that fool you into thinking Mr. Darcy has a reprieve. No, I would say Mr. Darcy has his work cut out for him, but he does manage to completely discombobulate Miss Elizabeth Bennet!

"The reversal was uncanny; she, lost for words - he, more communicative than ever." (quote from the book)

We all know how badly Mr. Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth Bennet at Hunsford Cottage went. What if Colonel Fitzwilliam interrupts that 'badly done, indeed' proposal. What if he only got as far as his most ardent admiration and love and going against the wishes of his family, friends, when the Colonel is announced? Darcy is needed by Lady Catherine immediately as they believe Anne de Bourgh has eloped with George Wickham! Everyone's life is thrown into a tailspin. Elizabeth is not only shocked at the news but ashamed of her good opinion of Wickham. It couldn't have been a more a 'timely elopement'!

"Mr. Wickham had made a fool of her - and she had suffered him to do so. Nay, she had aided and abetted him!" (quote from the book)

So when Elizabeth is requested to support Lady Catherine as she travels to London to gain the help of her brother, little does she know that she will be spending so much time in Mr. Darcy's presence. Little does Mr. Darcy know what an uphill battle he will have to be worthy of such a woman.

"You have prevailed upon Lady Catherine to change her mind? He gave a faint chuckle, then shook his head. I have long suspected you of weaving enchantments. Now I have proof of it." (quote from the book)

And weaving a spell on this reader as well. This book is sublime. I chortled, and chuckled; laughed out loud, said a lot of 'Oh dears' and cringed...pillows and half-wits, green-eyed monsters and swoon-worthy looks. So many scenes are worthy of highlight in this book, but I wouldn't want to take away from your own enjoyment.

But one thing I find that Ms. Starnes does so well is the yearning; the touch of a hand, the looks...it literally pours off the pages as if you, the reader, are feeling, doing and seeing all that is expressed. And the heat rises without even a kiss being shared...until they are on the slope. That scene just sets the page on fire. It is all so palpable and dissolves you in a puddle on the floor!

"He only caught a swift glance filtered through lowered lashes, and then she looked away, leaving him to the sweet agony of drinking in every detail of her appearance, and yearning for so much more than this." (quote from the book)

Needless to say, I can highly recommend this newest creation from the quill of Ms. Starnes for she never disappoints. Just remember not to leave your bonnet behind!

I received this book as a gift with no expectation for a review.

[James S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very original plot

Excellent idea, right from the beginning. Darcy is called away from his awful proposal to help find his cousin Anne since she seems to have runaway with Wickham. So Lizzy learns immediate he is a scumbag. A plus for our couple. But Darcy doesn’t have months being sad and coming to understand he’s an arrogant, proud and demeans all people not of the aristocracy that don’t work for him. Huge, huge, huge minus for our couple.

The story interestingly shows scenes where he begins to understand his viewpoint isn’t shared by his best friend, the Colonel, and for not by Lizzy. These scenes have a chance to show him having some epiphanies and coming to be like he was in the original P&P. Instead he fights change tooth and nail and as late as third chapter from the end he is still a horse’s behind.

Very late toward the end Lizzy declares her love. In my opinion that came to soon and pretty abruptly. I didn’t believe the HEA. Darcy seemed like an oversexed teenager just telling her anything to calm her down.

I was really stoked for a new story from the author and enjoyed it many places but it didn’t hang together for me.

[Les · Rating 3 out of 5]

Obviously my rating is going to be an outlier and maybe it was just me but this book didn't 'do it' for me.

While set in only a very short period of time; 95% of the book encompasses 3 weeks and fairly well focused on its task I just couldn't get gripped by the story.

This is a book from Darcy's perspective. when his visit to Hunsford parsonage to pay his attentions upon Miss Bennet is interrupted by his cousin. He some how feels that Miss Bennet (Elizabeth) has acquiesced to his proposal, while Miss Bennet feels that she has not.

The first interruption is predicated on the fact that Miss deBourgh has eloped with (dun dun dun) Wickham. Which leads to Lizzy being rapidly brought up to date on Wickham's perfidy. Soon the Collinses return to the parsonage with woes of their own. Alas this is spoiled by the author acting as if Parsons were servants and could be easily dismissed.
In no time flat Darcy & Col. Fitzwilliam are preparing to search for Anne and Lady Catherine demands Lizzy accompany her to London.
Anne and Wickham aren't easily found, Darcy is a typical (for P&P what ifs) tongue tied, jealous neurotic loony.

I felt that this was insanely dragged out, especially the scenes after Bingley and Darcy return to Meryton. It this was short story that was padded to be a book and didn't need to be. The drama felt forced. I didn't really feel any of the characters and it was a lot of talking and little action.

[Meredith (Austenesque Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What If Mr. Darcy’s Proposal Was Interrupted With Unexpected Family Drama?

Once again, Darcy’s wishes of securing Elizabeth as his wife are thwarted by an untimely interruption caused by Mr. Wickham – albeit, this time it happens even before he even finishes his first proposal. And once again, Wickham is accused of running off with an unmarried maiden – but this time it isn’t at all who won would expect! So a disgruntled and ill-tempered Mr. Darcy must abort his proposal and track down the couple in flight. When Darcy learns that Elizabeth will also be staying in London for a short duration he hopes that he may find a way to continue their private conversation and easily secure the acceptance to his proposal he is waiting for. Little does he know, he was never going to receive it in the first place…

Aborted proposals, chasing a couple in flight, family drama, and a Mr. Darcy who has not been properly humbled – this Pride and Prejudice variation begins with a most enthralling premise! I love how Joana Starnes took one of the most iconic and well-known scenes in Pride and Prejudice and said, “what if I threw a sizable wrench in all of Mr. Darcy’s plans and kept Elizabeth’s true feelings from him a little bit longer?” The result is highly diverting to see play out – Mr. Darcy continues on in arrogance and selfish disdain, yet Elizabeth is fully aware that he holds her in some affection and wants to marry her. I loved seeing Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s interactions with each other under these new circumstances – how Mr. Darcy slowly learns that his own behaviors and manners merit “the severest reproof” and how Elizabeth, who is now aware of Mr. Wickham’s reprehensible nature, starts to consider Mr. Darcy a little differently.

Mr. Darcy goes through a slow evolution in this tale and takes some time to shed his arrogant and prideful ways. There are some portions of this story where his thoughts and actions cause chagrin. But it is ever so much more rewarding to witness the moment where he fully understands and becomes a more worthy gentleman who deserves Elizabeth’s heart. My only wish was that we saw some more of Elizabeth’s evolution and internal development.

Readers who are familiar with Joana Starnes’s writing, will be thrilled to see her characteristic portrayals of an impassioned and deeply devoted Darcy and a witty and bold Elizabeth. And delight in the scenes where they are together, whether they be surrounded by palpable tension or achingly exquisite romance. But even though A Timely Elopement is on the slimmer side, the characters featured were broad and I thoroughly enjoyed many of the developments with the secondary characters included in this tale. And here is a vague list of my favorites to whet your appetite:

- Seeing an exasperated Colonel Fitzwilliam try to advise an oblivious and obstinate Darcy on the best way to court Elizabeth Bennet.

- Witnessing the change these circumstances have on Georgiana and seeing her make a new friend.

- Watching a severely incensed Mr. Bingley impulsively decide to follow his own heart and counsel.

- Witnessing Lady Catherine put a vexatious Caroline Bingley in her place.

- Discovering an astonishing twist that results in a most gratifying and deserving outcome.

- And lastly, observing how even with less angst and fewer pages, Joana Starnes can develop endless ways to torture Mr. Darcy!

A Timely Elopement is a vastly entertaining and stirring read full of Joana Starnes’s eloquently expressive tone, skillful machinations, and incandescently ardent interludes. If you have yet to read anything by Joana Starnes, you must remedy that omission immediately! (Or else Lady C will come after you!)

Austenesque Reviews

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anyone who claims to know Austen is all too familiar with the ill-fated ‘Hunsford proposal’ scene in “Pride and Prejudice”. You know the scene? Mr Darcy comes to Miss Elizabeth Bennet when she is alone in the parsonage and professes his love amongst a litany of unromantic and arrogant reasons why he has struggled against his feelings... In Joana Starnes’s new release, “A Timely Elopement”, his ill-worded delivery of a proposal is interrupted when the colonel barges in and declares their cousin Anne has eloped.

When Elizabeth unexpectedly finds herself as a guest at the Darcy townhouse as a companion of sorts to his formidable aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Mr Darcy soon realizes that he has dodged a bullet by not proposing to Elizabeth, a woman who was misinformed about him and had thought him the last man in the world she might marry—and takes this new found intelligence as an opportunity to show her he is a man worthy of her.
“He would secure his hearts desire—secure her—and if the world at large could not understand that happy men did their duty better, then they could go hang!”

Starnes has long been a household name when it comes to Jane Austen inspired fiction. Her banter between Darcy and Elizabeth is second to none, and their romance is swoon-worthy without the saccharine syrup that so often one finds in this sub-genre. I love how Starnes shows Elizabeth as a woman who does not willfully misunderstand, rather she studies Darcy’s words and deeds to see he very well might be the best man of her acquaintance—even when another admirable suitor is introduced into their circle—all the while bestowing Elizabeth’s charm and wit we love and expect.

In London and later in Hertfordshire, Darcy and Elizabeth cannot but have private conversations, secret looks, and pulse-raising moments:
“She gasped, not so much at the question as at the feel of his thumb brushing over her lower lip, once his hand had curved around her cheek. She saw him swallow hard and unwittingly did likewise, her throat suddenly dry. For all his admirable traits she discovered in him, she was reminded in a flash that he was strong-willed, often domineering, and patently accustomed to having his own way. Everything about this unnerving moment worked to confirm it. His hand on her cheek—an almost propriety gesture, and far too intimate for a proposal that had not been accepted. His demand for an answer—insistent and so very premature. His eyes flicking to her lips time and again, as if any moment now he would forget himself and kiss her.”

In this smart comedy of manners and intrigue, Starnes shows us the folly of judging by first impressions and this, like her previous Austenesque romances, delighted me with the tender, fledging relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth. The inventive twists are a welcome surprise and absolutely believable. “A Timely Elopement” is humorous, with the perfect measure of angst, a gloriously smitten Darcy, a bright and sparkling Elizabeth, gorgeous interaction with Georgiana and the colonel, and features a cousin Anne de Bourgh who I genuinely applauded. I loved this! Loved. Just the timely Austenesque fix I needed to read in a world gone mad.

[Rita Deodato · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...

A Timely Elopement is the perfect summer read, it is a fast paced yet romantic story which is extremely well written and captivating.

The book is told from Darcy’s POV and starts with the well known Hunsford proposal, but the author stopped him from ruining the most perfect love declaration of all times, by having Colonel Fitzwilliam entering the Collinses’ parlour after the “you must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you”.

The Colonel’s interruption is to announce that Anne has eloped with none other than Mr. Wickham, and I loved this premise because it allowed Elizabeth to know the truth about Wickham’s character before defending him before Darcy. I always dislike scenes where she does that, and I was happy to see the author prevented it from happening.

This unexpected elopement puts Rosings in an uproar and everyone travels to London to try to prevent the disgrace. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy rush to find the runaway couple, and Elizabeth accompanies Lady Catherine who refuses to be left behind under the circumstances. The story will progress from there and will take us to London, Longbourn and even Pemberley in the epilogue.

A Timely Elopement is a very sweet story without the angst we are used to in this author’s books, but many of the traits we usually see in Starnes work are still present. It is visible she knows these characters like no one else. Both Darcy and Elizabeth remain true to themselves, and their traits are not exacerbated to make the story more interesting because the author is able to capture readers attention with well thought of scenes and riveting dialogues. Darcy and Elizabeth’s imperfections are not removed for the sake of the story, and Darcy learns along the way that his pride should be re-checked, and that his opinion of the Gardeners was far from the truth.

I found the beginning of this story very amusing, particularly the scenes with Lady Catherine, and that was a good starting point for what was coming ahead. The following chapters show us Darcy at his best, capturing Elizabeth’s heart by revealing to her how he is amongst family and friends, and even surprising her with his ability to flirt. Their scenes are like all of Starnes scenes, intense, romantic and swoon worthy. However, I would have liked to see more scenes that would allow me to feel Elizabeth falling in love with Darcy. There are several moments in his house and even at the Gardiners where we see her challenging her previous opinion of him, but I would have liked to see her developing more intense feelings for him throughout the story.

Towards the end of the book we get to see Darcy’s jealousy which was one of my favourite aspects of this book. Unlike other works from this author, this jealousy does not create much angst and is soon resolved, mainly due to Elizabeth’s wit, which was just perfect! I hate to see a silly Elizabeth misinterpreting everything that is said, and that never happens in this story due to the authors profound understanding of her character.

Summing up, A Timely Elopement is not the typical Starnes book but it is just as good as her previous releases. The book is extremely well written and captivates readers attention from the beginning until the end with its witty dialogues and romantic interactions. I highly recommend this one to all my readers, because as usual, Starnes’ talent does not disappoint.

[Abi Demina · Rating 2 out of 5]

I realised when reading this, that my main issue with some of Ms Starne's P&P vagaries, is that she generally writes Darcy as the flawed, stubborn jackass in need of reform, while her Elizabeth Bennet is perfect, witty loveliness embodied, who changes him.
It misses the point that they are BOTH flawed characters. That Lizzy as much as Darcy misjudges people, and is set up in her own conceit and happily thinking she's always right, until life and Darcy teach her otherwise.

Elizabeth happily slanders Darcy to his worst enemy and lets everyone know how awful she thinks him, believes him capable of dishonesty and lack of honour and a lack of respect to his father's memory and his own family name - and yet when she discovers Wickham lied and she believed him, in this JAFF it is as though she is allowed to just think oh dear, what a mistake, and continue on... whereas Darcy is made to pay for his (in my opinion much lesser) flaws over and over again, and almost made into the villain.

He not only - gasp! - thinks he's above her (er, he is (in social standing at least), she even acknowledges as much in P&P when she sees Pemberley and realises just how far above her he is and has new respect for the honour of such a man proposing to her), but he acts with reserve and in one unforgivable moment refuses to stand up to dance with a girl whose mother has been loudly screeching about how much money he has... These are the sum total of Darcy's crimes.
I have always believed Elizabeth was the worst of the two in P&P, and so in a JAFF where Darcy is made into an idiot who never learns from his mistakes, and she is this perfect creature he has to jump through a thousand hoops to please, it makes me a little crazy.

In this JAFF, especially, Darcy apparently snubs all tradespeople (he never does so in P&P, he only says that such connections will make marrying well unlikely, which is actually just a fact, and his own best friend is from a family who made their money in trade), and acts like an ass to the Gardiners simply because of who they are... which would not be the case with Austen's Darcy. Austen's Darcy says "...the situation of your mother's family, though objectionable, was nothing compared to that total want of propriety so frequently, so almost uniformly betrayed..."
He acted reserved in company with the people of Meryton, but even before Elizabeth's angry rejection of him, he never acted with rudeness - not even to Lydia or Mrs Bennet when they were outrageous in his company - and certainly not to anyone who behaved with propriety.

In the beginning of P&P, at Netherfield Darcy says "...it has been the study of my life to avoid those weaknesses which often expose a strong understanding to ridicule", and proves this when Lizzy rejects him at Hunsford and his eyes are opened to the way he has been perceived. Naturally intelligent and good, he immediately strives to do better, to be a better man. He doesn't need to be repeatedly told or shown his flaws. Once is enough for him to wish to improve himself.

But if, as in this vagary, his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam had continually pointed out to him that he was stuck-up, a prig, etc, over the course of his entire life, he would have to be a stubborn idiot, a much worse man than Austen's Darcy, to continually ignore that advice and only adhere to strictures when they're given by a pretty girl he fancies.

Darcy repeatedly acts like an ass in this JAFF and I actually hate him for most of the book, which is definitely not how I want to feel about Fitzwilliam Darcy. Even at his worst, in P&P, I never hated him. He isn't the bad guy, and I wish he wasn't written so often as the one who has to change to be worthy of perfect Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
If P&P had been about that, I don't think any of us would have loved it so much. We love discovering the real Darcy along with her, after she has misjudged him due to her prejudice and hurt pride. We love seeing the lengths he will go to for her, even though she is flawed and has hurt him. We don't love P&P because we watch a buffoon repeatedly being chastised by perfection.

So yeah... this is why I didn't like this book as much as I really wanted to and hoped I would after the stellar beginning.
Ms Starnes is such a good writer, but she plays with these beloved characters in ways that make them unrecognisable to me. And I never want to be made to hate Darcy.

(Oh and also I agree with another reviewer, that it was a mistake to have the Collinses worry they would lose the living at Hunsford, when they are given that position for life. An editor should have caught that.)

[Alexandra Rivers · Rating 5 out of 5]

It might sounds weird but I read Austen variations for the math.
When done right, a variation is like a good equation. A little tweak on the variables and the equation changes. Having in mind that --more or less --we want the result to be the same, we have the most delicious mathematical problem and Joana Starnes rocks in math!

Over the years she has presented unexpected variables that at times seem to crash the equation to its pieces but she always delivers and this book is no exception.
A Timely Elopement even though not as bold as some of her other wicked attempts, deliberately uses small, miniscule changes to show her mastery of orchestrating a story.

And that is why reading (or writing) is like playing chess: in the mind games of writing, pieces that seem like pawns can prove to be important elements that get the wheels turning. Charlotte, Lady Catherine…

And then we have the very conscious games with the reader. It’s more than a wink to the reader the author knows has read Austen. It’s a web weaved to enhance the hero’s state. We see Darcy walking step by step into a minefield of his own making and until he realizes the… size of his mistakes, I was smiling every time he cursed being interrupted in his legendary proposal.

I could claim I read Starnes’ variations for the philosophical questions: the elements that make a person who he is, the change in circumstances that change one’s expectations in life, the role of luck in a person’s happiness BUT the author replies to all this far better than I would in the end of the book. ;-)
Because the bottom line is that reading her story much like life itself is so much fun!

In A Timely Elopement we have some lovely scenes between the siblings (I always loved that relationship!) a Darcy who is passionate, smooth in his seduction and totally oblivious of his faults at first (“If she had not seen his offer of marriage for the tribute that it was…” I laughed so hard with that!)
In true Starnes’ mode we have a long, painful at times, character development during which Darcy is purposeful yet features ALL the Darcy-faults of the original, adorable in his frustration yet determined ( "he would bend both luck and judgement in order to ensure that nothing would go awry..."), tormented in his jealousy yet intelligent enough to realize what he should change without the original Austen slaps in P&P.
His emotional dissection is delicious and his torment (even though this is a low angst story for Starnes' habits) no matter how short is heartbreaking. How can I not comment on the subtle yet poignant way the author dealt with his disagreement with the bark?

Elizabeth is true to character but much like the reader how can she resist the charm?
(Before I forget: I loved the Homeric lines and the Othello references.)

All in all, this is a embroidery of fine, deliberate stitches, colored with humor, funny scenes (Miss de Bourgh RULES!) all wrapped in Starnes’s writing style--that alone takes you from the hand and brings you into the parlors and minds of her heroes.

Do I need to say that I highly recommend this book? ;-)

[Ｓｈｉｆｒａ ♕ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautiful trademark Starnes writing, but mediocre plot.

Didn’t compel me as I have come to take for granted of a Starnes.

Synopsis:

Darcy has just started his proposal in Hunsford but before he can get around to insulting her soundly, Col. Fitz storms in.

He bares shocking news: Anne deBourgh and Wickham have eloped! They had been exchanging letters and meeting in secret for months. Who would have thought quite, meek Anne had the moxie!

Lizzy is thus appraised of their history with the scoundrel. Darcy, in light of the news, leaves Lizzy with a 'to be continued'.

Lizzy is processing all this, still she isn't keen to enter in anything resembling an understanding with Darcy, but she acknowledges her judgement had been off and decides she will use the time while he is occupied finding Anne to figure out a way to let him down easy.

It is not to be as Lizzy will be kept in close proximity to him, as Lady Catherine needs someone at her disposal to travel to London, and she requests Lizzy to attend her. Due to this Darcy's bubble is popped as he becomes acquainted with the fact that Lizzy acquiescing to be his wife is no sure thing, and he must exert himself to secure her affections.



That Which Sparked Joy:

♡The premise is not only creative but very plausible- not a stretch to imagine Collins accidentally allowing Wickham an in with the lonely heiress. The first third was very promising overall.

♡Prose & Dialogue

♡Jane and Bingley proposal was adorable!!

That Which Courted Disdain:

✗The turn in affection with Lizzy was odd, and I felt they were always not only on a different page but chapters apart and I don't understand how it was resolved. A lot of drawing rooms & uncertainty, & very little excitement or romance.
Darcy is in his head and Lizzy in hers, & I don't think they ventured out of their little world enough to meet halfway & validate the shift in their understanding. The POV was very uneven, we increasingly got less Lizzy POV which is when we needed it most towards the end for when we last left her head she seemed uncertain about the proud man, made it seem she turned on a dime when convenient to wrap up story.

✗Lizzy and Darcy did not work together to solve the conflict, 'the Anne thing'. I should have liked Lizzy acting as protagonists should, and have some bearing on events instead of being uninvolved.

✗I think it had a strong start and a steady decline thereafter, likely starting when Lizzy was edged out of the driving plot when she went to stay with the Gardiners. A better choice would have been to conspire events in such a manner that Lizzy did stay with the Matlocks; it would have kept her in the heart of the elopement, the tension of staying with the Fitzwilliams would have led to interesting venues, not to mention Darcy having greater accessibility to her (though likely would have to court her in surreptitious fashion- which would only add tension- win win.)

✗Mr Tyndall interested in Lizzy- didn't see the point of him, wasn't used enough in a manner that merited his inclusion. I love me a love triangle, I will admit it, but I did not care for such a half hearted attempt. He was gratuitous.

The Brass Tacks:
➭ It feels unnatural to bequeath a Starnes with less than 5 stars and a ‘that-a-girl’ gushing review, and although this is my no means bad, tis not anything to write home about or revisit,

still she has a Midas touch- I mean that prose, amiright? Gorgeous regardless!- so even the runt of her stories is well met.

What failed here was the uneven plot, the irrelevance the main conflict had on ODC- i.e. lack of character journey/ transformation, stakes/cost, solves itself- and the weird vibe that it was a novelette sized plot venturing on novel length- couldn’t commit to one. In a word: underwhelming.

Tis no secret JAFF is rated on a curve by most, which springs from a very noble sentiment to reward all artists who put themselves and there work out there, which as a being with a heart- believe it or not- I can appreciate; in consequence however, as occurs to any currency, the star value has been deflated to such proportions that a 3 is often read between the lines as a polite insult.
I preface so as to stress that I do not adhere to such practices- 3 for me is as straightforward defined as hovering your mouse over the Goodreads stars: I liked it- it was a pleasant read. I would not go further on a ledge than that.

[Ceri]

Review to follow

[Hailee · Rating 3 out of 5]

CAWPILE rating: 6.43

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gets off to a great start. As Darcy starts making his proposal, the colonel arrives with the news that Anne de Bourgh has eloped.... with Wickham! Elizabeth, who had been getting ready to refuse Darcys proposal suddenly realises there is more going on between Darcy and Wickham than she knew. While she is pausing for thought, Darcy makes his apologies and leaves but with the impression she will consent. We see Elizabeth trying to find a way to let him know she had not actually agreed to be his wife but she struggles to find the opportunity. And in the small periods of time she has with Darcy, on the one hand she is thinking of ways to tell him she has no intention of marrying him, while on the other she is getting to know him better and finding she quite likes him!

Any fan of this genre is going to love this book. We get lots of time with Darcy and Elizabeth but propriety is observed and this creates such exquisite tension!! Elizabeth let's Darcy know that she would have refused him at Huntsford, skillfully indicating that things might not be the same at the time they have this discussion soon after. We see Elizabeth learning she has misunderstood Darcy and him realising he is going to have to fight for Elizabeth - she isn't just going to accept him for who he is or what he has... and he has a rival for her affection!! The elopement allows this tale to travel out of Kent and into London before we all go back to Hertfordshire. The story of the elopement is important, but it's not the focus of the book.

I loved this book so much - Elizabeth is a fantastic character. She's everything she should be, complex but playful and it was fantastic to be able to see her thoughts and feelings towards Darcy changing. She makes him work for it but not in a way that felt contrived or unkind. Darcy is just brilliant. He starts off so confident and arrogant and we see him working so hard to overcome his snobbery and coming to know himself, seeing himself through Elizabeth's eyes. His shift in perspective is brilliant. The story with Jane and Bingley is quite brief but I just loved Mr Bingley. The way he goes about explaining himself to Jane is just adorable!!

I always expect huge amounts of angst from Joana Starnes. However, although we have a few moments of misunderstanding and some little squabbles, the path to happiness is set early on and it builds beautifully to a happy ever after!

[Ree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another well-written book from Ms. Starnes. An interrupted proposal at Hunsford leaves Darcy in limbo as he and Colonel Fitzwilliam work to rescue Wickham’s latest conquest (no spoilers). Lots of epiphanies for Darcy in this story which he realizes on his own instead of Elizabeth’s scathing words of refusal with which we are all so familiar. I especially enjoyed the dialogue between Darcy and the Colonel. Highly recommend.

September 7, 2021 - Audiobook
Another excellent narration by Stevie Zimmerman. Very much enjoyed the audio version of this book. Well done.

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avid Reader

Anne's eloping with someone other than Wickham or the Colonel was quite interesting. She used Wickham to help her make the arrangements. Darcy was extremely prejudiced and would have botched his proposal to Elizabeth had it not been interrupted by Anne 's elopement. Darcy was a prob throughout the novel because he didn't receive Elizabeth 's famous set down. As a result he really didn't see the error of his ways until he shared dinner with the Gardeniers. He realized that it was the first time that he had seen her happy. Darcy finally understood that Elizabeth would not leave the people that she loves for him. This Darcy had no patience and a mean temper. Elizabeth brought him to heel in small interactions. She demonstrated loyalty to her family when she chose to stay in Cheapside with the Gardeniers instead of the Colonel 's family. I'm addition, Elizabeth forced him to visit her in Cheapside since he demonstrated that he thought Cheapside was no place for him or Georgina. Elizabeth never relinquished her feelings about her family or about her own worth.

[Michelle David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous

An interesting twist during the Hunsford proposal in this variation inspired by Jane Austen's classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Joanna Starnes. Most enjoyable story.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Delightful Read

This is story of an elopement, but not that of Lydia Bennet. It is a wonderful tale with much humour of Anne De Bourgh's elopement and how Darcy is given time to learn how to be a better man. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it is one I will be reading again. I highly recommend it to all JAFF readers.

[M · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

[Gail Frisby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book

Good story would have liked more of an epilogue. I thought the elopement was a good idea. Glad no Lydia in this one just a mention. Anne was a surprise.

[Eliza Baum · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was one of the best paced and plotted short novels I've ever read. So often they don't seem to have sufficient pages to accomplish what the author sets out, but this one was very well done. I greatly enjoyed the way the plot unfolded. There is one thing that dropped my rating a whole star, and that is something that happens in the plot almost at the very end. Darcy shows up at Netherfield looking for Elizabeth. He sees two people kissing, assumes in jealousy that it's Elizabeth and his rival (an OC for this book), and angrily accuses her of it. She clears up the misunderstanding, he apologizes, and they immediately get engaged. I really, really didn't like that jealous rage. If it was going to happen, I would have preferred it earlier in the story. I had trouble accepting that it was something she could easily forgive, because it was SO extreme. If his reaction had been calmer (or sadder), I would have been fine with it.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great P&P variation.
I really enjoyed this story. It's fast paced and fun. It jumps right in at the Huntsford proposal with an unbelievable interruption that works in Darcy's favor. He soon learns that Elizabeth would have refused him and must work to win her affections while trying to overcome his own prejudices. The ending did seem a bit rushed. I would have liked to have seen more of the engagement period.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a Pride and Prejudice enthusiast, there is nothing quite like an unusually talkative and passionate Mr. Darcy to pique one’s interest. And it becomes particularly intriguing when the story is told almost exclusively from his perspective. Ironically, it is perhaps his most blundering speech that is mercifully interrupted in this variation, A Timely Elopement, from master storyteller Joana Starnes.
The tale begins in the parlor at Hunsford Parsonage near Rosings Park in Kent with the only two occupants; a visibly agitated Mr. Darcy and a startled and wary Elizabeth Bennet. Darcy has been at Rosings with his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam to visit their aunt Lady Catherine de Bourgh and their cousin Anne, while Elizabeth visits her friend Charlotte Lucas, newly married to Elizabeth’s cousin and one-time suitor, Mr. Collins, Lady Catherine’s parson.
Darcy’s unexpected and ardent marriage proposal to Elizabeth is fortunately interrupted just before he manages to insult her with his ungentlemanlike manner, although she cannot forget that morning’s revelation from an unwitting Colonel Fitzwilliam that Darcy’s intervention had ruined her sister Jane’s chances for happiness with his friend Charles Bingley. Colonel Fitzwilliam barges in at that fortuitous moment to announce, “We have reason to fear that Anne has eloped. To own the truth, with Wickham.” (Kindle 82) Shock settles over the group as they consider the dire situation of Anne de Bourgh, known only as a sickly but wealthy heiress, possibly eloping with George Wickham. Lady Catherine later exclaims, “All saints preserve us! A steward’s son! What was the girl thinking?” (Kindle 496) Unbeknownst to her, he was the same fiend who had attempted to elope with Darcy’s sister Georgiana, also a wealthy heiress, from Ramsgate the previous summer. Thus, Darcy ceases his proposal just after confessing his love for Elizabeth. He briefly apprises her of the previous situation between his sister and Wickham before hurrying off to search for Anne, unaware that his aunt is about to summon his ladylove to accompany her to London for the same purpose.
Lady Catherine in distraught-mother mode has as acerbic a tongue as one might imagine. Nonetheless, the two ladies have a frank conversation during their travels, and there are surprising hints of a softer heart hidden away beneath Lady Catherine’s sharp exterior. When she discovers her brother’s London home is unexpectedly occupied with revelers, Lady Catherine and Elizabeth find themselves the unannounced houseguests of Mr. Darcy at his London townhome, Darcy House. The circumstances allow Elizabeth to become comfortably acquainted with his sister Georgiana, as well as to have another private conversation with Darcy.

“The reversal was uncanny: she, lost for words – he, more communicative than ever. Uncanny and bordering on the alarming. Finding herself lost for words was a profoundly alien sensation. She did not like it in the slightest. At her continued silence, he said softly, ‘I see I am making you uncomfortable. I should beg your pardon for speaking too freely, both now and a few minutes ago. But I have longed to speak my mind for a fair while. And it is a vast relief to do so.’” (Kindle 730)

Darcy is completely oblivious of her feelings regarding his overbearing manner and his prejudice against those he views as her inferior relations. He is thrilled by her presence in his home and envisions a lovely future together there. Little does he realize that his arrogant pursuit of Elizabeth has rankled her beyond all endurance, and she requests to move to her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner’s house in Cheapside. It will require an epiphany with a “violent surge of self-recriminations” (Kindle 2073) to open Darcy’s eyes, both to the reality of his own romantic hopes as well as the astonishing story behind Anne’s timely elopement.
I thoroughly enjoyed this talkative version of Mr. Darcy. He was done admiring Elizabeth’s fine eyes from across the room, and his words, although often ill-judged, just overflowed. However, it was at times quite aggravating to experience the story from his perspective. He was utterly devoted to Elizabeth throughout, but he was also utterly delusional. “As for the depth of his devotion, what greater proof of it was he to give than his willingness to align himself with indecorous country bumpkins and a number of tradespeople?” (Kindle 901) Darcy was attracted to Elizabeth without initially understanding that much of what made her the person he loved was directly influenced by those she held most dear. His eventual epiphany and contrition were satisfying to witness. “She verily glowed tonight because she was happy. What sort of a selfish beast would take this away from her, and expect her to find ample compensation in what he had to offer?” (Kindle 2076) This was a lovely and thought-provoking story about wholeheartedly committing to understanding the depths and nuances of a loved one on the journey to a beautiful happily-ever-after.
4 out of 5 Regency Stars
https://austenprose.com/2020/07/01/a-...

[Suzan Lauder · Rating 5 out of 5]

As excellent as expected for Joana Starnes. The twist is clever. I won't give any spoilers; plenty of other reviewers have already been effective at that. But everything turns out pretty well for all the well-drafted characters.

My biggest issue was the continuing use of the word "snort." It's in all her books and in a few other JAFF authors' books. (I do get a kick out of those who know it's wrong and say things like "an unladylike noise escaped her nose.") In the Regency, snorting was reserved for horses, and thus, should not be in the book at all. It especially should not be used for Elizabeth or Darcy. It's crude and inappropriate and perhaps something a beggar might do, but not a gently bred person. Scoffing maybe, but not snorting! This was not the only non-Regency word, just the one that popped out. My 750-word non-Regency non-British word list has been made available in pdf on my blog already, so there are no excuses. Minus half a star.

Back to the book--It's fantastic, so enjoy. Please note that it's a novella, so it can be read in a shorter time than other books. I enjoyed this shorter, though very complete, story arc.

Disclaimer: I am a JAFF author, so my reviews may be considered to be a conflict of interest, however, they are as fair and impartial as I can possibly manage given that I am a reader first and happen to adore this author's work in a general sense. Dream goal: to meet her.

[Teresita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very opportune

It helped to avoid a confrontation between them and have them time to understand each other better. The plot is engaging! Recommended read!

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Competently written

... a fine story with mild angst and a few amusing surprises. Chaste, nothing too new in terms of plot or characters. Anne de Bourgh prominent.

[Bezbuza · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written, good story. But Darcy is unbearingly arrogant in this one.
Probable future abusive husband.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent P&P Variation

I thoroughly enjoyed this what-if Pride and Prejudice variation. No spoilers, just read and enjoy! It’s a Joana Starnes book which equates to mesmerizing.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 This was a unique twist that begins during the infamous Hunsford proposal, or half proposal as there were interruptions which led the proposal to come to a hault before the insults were complete and before the lady could respond. The passage of time allows for some introspection and ultimately some revelations that cause Darcy to see himself and the world he lives in in a different light. Elizabeth's change in sentiment toward Darcy seems to be the result of observing him in different situations and settings and seeing that there is more to Darcy than meets the eye. The characters were true to canon, with the exception of Anne deB. We get to see a different side to Anne that is kind of a fun change. This was a great story that I enjoyed quite a bit!