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Sweet Sentiments #1
When the Sun Sleeps
Disappointed hopes and the kindness of a stranger.
Elizabeth Bennet is as content as a girl with a wounded heart can be. Mr. Bingley has returned to Jane with promising attentions, and all is well... except that no one knows what has become of Mr. Darcy. Shadowed by regrets of the past, Elizabeth means only to enjoy her tour of the Peaks with her aunt and uncle, declining a chance to view Pemberley. The party takes rooms at an inn, and Elizabeth discovers a very lonely gentleman has taken the room next to hers.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has lost nearly all the people dearest to him. Too late to save some, and too humbled to reach out to others, he does the only thing he can think of. He leaves all his memories behind for a time, uncertain if or when he will ever return. On his way to Scotland, he stops in an unfamiliar town for the night, and finds a friend in the faceless voice next door. If only their paths would cross in the daylight, so he could learn who she is!
As the nights pass, and casual exchanges become deep confidences, Darcy and Elizabeth each find their hearts aching for the one they lost. Elizabeth wishes with all her heart that she could see Mr. Darcy one more time, to let him know how her feelings have changed. The least she can do is advise this stranger in the next room not to give up hope on the woman he loves.
When Darcy at last decides to seek Elizabeth Bennet and ask one more time for her hand, will he accidentally be riding away from her, instead? Find out in this delicious, gently paced story of mistakes and redemption.
When The Sun Sleeps is a sweet Regency Novella of approximately 20,000 words.
Elizabeth Bennet is as content as a girl with a wounded heart can be. Mr. Bingley has returned to Jane with promising attentions, and all is well... except that no one knows what has become of Mr. Darcy. Shadowed by regrets of the past, Elizabeth means only to enjoy her tour of the Peaks with her aunt and uncle, declining a chance to view Pemberley. The party takes rooms at an inn, and Elizabeth discovers a very lonely gentleman has taken the room next to hers.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has lost nearly all the people dearest to him. Too late to save some, and too humbled to reach out to others, he does the only thing he can think of. He leaves all his memories behind for a time, uncertain if or when he will ever return. On his way to Scotland, he stops in an unfamiliar town for the night, and finds a friend in the faceless voice next door. If only their paths would cross in the daylight, so he could learn who she is!
As the nights pass, and casual exchanges become deep confidences, Darcy and Elizabeth each find their hearts aching for the one they lost. Elizabeth wishes with all her heart that she could see Mr. Darcy one more time, to let him know how her feelings have changed. The least she can do is advise this stranger in the next room not to give up hope on the woman he loves.
When Darcy at last decides to seek Elizabeth Bennet and ask one more time for her hand, will he accidentally be riding away from her, instead? Find out in this delicious, gently paced story of mistakes and redemption.
When The Sun Sleeps is a sweet Regency Novella of approximately 20,000 words.
81 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2020
169 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
About the author
Alix James
60 books129 followersSatisfying romance with a happy ending
Alix James is a best-selling Jane Austen romance author. #janeaustenfan #janeaustenfans #janeaustenfanfiction #mrdarcy #austenadapations #austenvariations
Alix James is a best-selling Jane Austen romance author. #janeaustenfan #janeaustenfans #janeaustenfanfiction #mrdarcy #austenadapations #austenvariations
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
August 17, 2020
This short story is so very melancholy for about the first half. Even with that I highly recommend you read it.
Elizabeth is touring in Derbyshire with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. She passes on a chance to tour Pemberley due to the memories of his proposal and that letter...that showed her how wrong she was. As they travel on they come to an inn in Ferndale from which their next several days of touring will take place.
Little does Elizabeth realize but the man who has taken the room next to their sitting room is Mr. Darcy. As she hums a song he responds with helping to finish the song and they begin a conversation through the door...as anonymous strangers. Both find reasons to think the person on the other side might be...him/her! However when names are exchanged both give aliases.
Darcy has fled Pemberley as depression (Some would say PTSD.) has overwhelmed him. Tragedy has struck...in more ways than just a refused proposal. Elizabeth's heart goes out to the gentleman next door and her voice and words give him a different view on life, even a new determination to try to change some of the reasons he is so sorrowful. As he rushes off to seek change he leaves without meeting her face-to-face...but don't despair. Fate has other plans.
Do read this poignant novella...it is a gem! Book 1...Oh, I hope we are in for many more by this author.
Elizabeth is touring in Derbyshire with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. She passes on a chance to tour Pemberley due to the memories of his proposal and that letter...that showed her how wrong she was. As they travel on they come to an inn in Ferndale from which their next several days of touring will take place.
Little does Elizabeth realize but the man who has taken the room next to their sitting room is Mr. Darcy. As she hums a song he responds with helping to finish the song and they begin a conversation through the door...as anonymous strangers. Both find reasons to think the person on the other side might be...him/her! However when names are exchanged both give aliases.
Darcy has fled Pemberley as depression (Some would say PTSD.) has overwhelmed him. Tragedy has struck...in more ways than just a refused proposal. Elizabeth's heart goes out to the gentleman next door and her voice and words give him a different view on life, even a new determination to try to change some of the reasons he is so sorrowful. As he rushes off to seek change he leaves without meeting her face-to-face...but don't despair. Fate has other plans.
Do read this poignant novella...it is a gem! Book 1...Oh, I hope we are in for many more by this author.
August 17, 2020
‘Disappointed hopes and the friendship of a stranger’ book blurb
Rating: Clean
Oh-my-gosh, have your tissues ready as this is a virtual snot fest. Oh, my heart hurt for ODC [our dear couple]. Darcy had more than the loss of Elizabeth to plague him. I never saw it coming and it was such a shock I burst into tears. Oh-My-Goodness, how could this happen? Alix James knows how to throw a punch, that is for sure.
Thank goodness this was a novella as I don’t think I could have stood much more. It was just enough angst to engage the reader and push the story along as well. James added a dash of humor as we the reader know what is on the other side of the door. However, she likes to play with us for a minute before she releases the rest of the story. My heart absolutely stopped when it appeared that Darcy was riding away. I wanted to scream “NO!!” at my reading device. I didn’t because I was too choked up to even speak. Whew! It has taken me several hours to calm down. I simply CNPID [could not put it down]. Oh, my heart hurts. Although, that might be the chili and Mt Dew I had for dinner. No, I think it was the story. LA! I highly recommend this for those who love angst and a delicious swoon-worthy love declaration. Oh-my-gosh! When that door opened, I nearly swooned myself. LA! That was amazing and such beautiful writing.
I volunteered to read an ARC with no expectations of a review. The views and opinions expressed are my own. I also preordered this as soon as it hit Amazon. This author is an automatic buy for me. This is a second read for me. I just couldn’t help myself.
Rating: Clean
Oh-my-gosh, have your tissues ready as this is a virtual snot fest. Oh, my heart hurt for ODC [our dear couple]. Darcy had more than the loss of Elizabeth to plague him. I never saw it coming and it was such a shock I burst into tears. Oh-My-Goodness, how could this happen? Alix James knows how to throw a punch, that is for sure.
Thank goodness this was a novella as I don’t think I could have stood much more. It was just enough angst to engage the reader and push the story along as well. James added a dash of humor as we the reader know what is on the other side of the door. However, she likes to play with us for a minute before she releases the rest of the story. My heart absolutely stopped when it appeared that Darcy was riding away. I wanted to scream “NO!!” at my reading device. I didn’t because I was too choked up to even speak. Whew! It has taken me several hours to calm down. I simply CNPID [could not put it down]. Oh, my heart hurts. Although, that might be the chili and Mt Dew I had for dinner. No, I think it was the story. LA! I highly recommend this for those who love angst and a delicious swoon-worthy love declaration. Oh-my-gosh! When that door opened, I nearly swooned myself. LA! That was amazing and such beautiful writing.
I volunteered to read an ARC with no expectations of a review. The views and opinions expressed are my own. I also preordered this as soon as it hit Amazon. This author is an automatic buy for me. This is a second read for me. I just couldn’t help myself.
March 17, 2025
And night doth nightly make grief's strength seem stronger. ~ William Shakespeare
Fitzwilliam Darcy is beset with grief and massive doses of guilt.
Unable to abide his memories at Pemberley, Darcy leaves for Scotland with no set plans to return home again. His wanderings lead to a comfortable inn where he hears a woman hum a familiar song.
The encounter leads to conversation. Who is his unknown confidante?
Elizabeth Bennet is traveling with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. She convinces them to delay a tour of Pemberley and they continue their journey to the north.
Elizabeth hears a voice on the other side of the wall.
Our dear couple must deal with tragedy, illness, and despair. A happy ending is a must-happen, even in this situation.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys JAFF.
Give sorrow words; the grief that does not speak whispers the o'er-fraught heart and bids it break. ~ William Shakespeare
Fitzwilliam Darcy is beset with grief and massive doses of guilt.
Unable to abide his memories at Pemberley, Darcy leaves for Scotland with no set plans to return home again. His wanderings lead to a comfortable inn where he hears a woman hum a familiar song.
The encounter leads to conversation. Who is his unknown confidante?
Elizabeth Bennet is traveling with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. She convinces them to delay a tour of Pemberley and they continue their journey to the north.
Elizabeth hears a voice on the other side of the wall.
Our dear couple must deal with tragedy, illness, and despair. A happy ending is a must-happen, even in this situation.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys JAFF.
Give sorrow words; the grief that does not speak whispers the o'er-fraught heart and bids it break. ~ William Shakespeare
June 13, 2023
This story had my heart in my throat thru almost the whole book. Thank goodness it is short.
A grieving Darcy meets with an angel by way of a locked door. They both learn to hope again, before knowing it is each other. Darcy with Elizabeth's help finds he can live again.
A beautifully written story, which lyrically flowed both in its language and with bring the emotions of the reader along for the ride.
A grieving Darcy meets with an angel by way of a locked door. They both learn to hope again, before knowing it is each other. Darcy with Elizabeth's help finds he can live again.
A beautifully written story, which lyrically flowed both in its language and with bring the emotions of the reader along for the ride.
December 8, 2025
Emotional Novella
A very emotional story has a grieving Darcy, and a remorseful Elizabeth conversing through a closed door, each revealing truths about their past—strangers, not knowing the other’s true identity. Darcy’s pain will make your heart ache for him, and Elizabeth’s kindness towards a supposed stranger will make you grateful to her for relieving Darcy’s heartache. A sad, but wonderfully-written story that eventually reaches a happy ending, of course!
August 24, 2023 - Audiobook
A very emotional story has a grieving Darcy, and a remorseful Elizabeth conversing through a closed door, each revealing truths about their past—strangers, not knowing the other’s true identity. Darcy’s pain will make your heart ache for him, and Elizabeth’s kindness towards a supposed stranger will make you grateful to her for relieving Darcy’s heartache. A sad, but wonderfully-written story that eventually reaches a happy ending, of course!
August 24, 2023 - Audiobook
August 5, 2020
5+ stars
I've never been a crier - at least not when I read books. This novella is one of those rare exceptions. I've read it twice now and, even knowing what was coming, I choked up as much the second time as much as I did the first.
It begins after Hunsford -- refused proposal, exchange of insults, and then Darcy's letter written, delivered and read as in canon. Elizabeth and the Gardiners are on their pleasure trip to the Peaks Region as originally planned. By happenstance, Darcy comes to the same inn where they're staying. His room adjoins those occupied by the Gardiner party, though they haven't met. At this point, Darcy is a completely broken man.
Since he has trouble sleeping, he's awake to hear a sweet voice in the next room humming a lullaby he remembers his mother singing. This ultimately leads to whispered late night conversations between two strangers, the door remaining closed between them.
It a premise filled with poignant romance. Darcy is soothed by the sweet lady's gentle kindness and good humor, while Elizabeth's heart goes out to her sorrowful neighbor. Both feel certain the other must be ineligible for a romantic attachment - he could be as old as her father, and she could be a married woman - but the anonymity allows for an exchange of veiled confidences.
The writing is just stellar, with believable characterizations, dialogue and situations. The work may be short, but it's the perfect length for the story, and it's certainly not fluff.
Highly recommend!
I received an Advanced Readers Copy with no promise of a review, positive or otherwise. Opinions are my own.
I've never been a crier - at least not when I read books. This novella is one of those rare exceptions. I've read it twice now and, even knowing what was coming, I choked up as much the second time as much as I did the first.
It begins after Hunsford -- refused proposal, exchange of insults, and then Darcy's letter written, delivered and read as in canon. Elizabeth and the Gardiners are on their pleasure trip to the Peaks Region as originally planned. By happenstance, Darcy comes to the same inn where they're staying. His room adjoins those occupied by the Gardiner party, though they haven't met. At this point, Darcy is a completely broken man.
Since he has trouble sleeping, he's awake to hear a sweet voice in the next room humming a lullaby he remembers his mother singing. This ultimately leads to whispered late night conversations between two strangers, the door remaining closed between them.
It a premise filled with poignant romance. Darcy is soothed by the sweet lady's gentle kindness and good humor, while Elizabeth's heart goes out to her sorrowful neighbor. Both feel certain the other must be ineligible for a romantic attachment - he could be as old as her father, and she could be a married woman - but the anonymity allows for an exchange of veiled confidences.
The writing is just stellar, with believable characterizations, dialogue and situations. The work may be short, but it's the perfect length for the story, and it's certainly not fluff.
Highly recommend!
I received an Advanced Readers Copy with no promise of a review, positive or otherwise. Opinions are my own.
August 6, 2020
This is an incredibly poignant novella that not only tugs at the heartstrings, but speaks to the heart. Rich in emotion, it captures and holds your attention to the very end.
"Madam...she is my guiding star. When the sun sleeps, and all my other cares press on me, it is her light by which I seek to bend my steps." (quote from the book)
Mr. Darcy has lost everything he holds most dear. He decides to close up Pemberley and retreat to Scotland. On his journey north, he finds a voice that brings him a measure of comfort behind a door at the inn he stays at.
"He had no notion of where he was going, really. He only meant to become a no one bound for nowhere." (quote from the book)
Elizabeth is traveling with the Gardiners in Derbyshire, but declines a tour of Pemberley at the start of their trip, though she did get a glimpse of the exterior. While humming late one evening at the inn, she is soon conversing with an unknown man whose sadness touches her deeply and reminds her of Mr. Darcy.
"How bitter it was, that she had wished to avoid the man, and every whisper recalled him!" (quote from the book)
I highly recommend this heartrending but touching story of revelations and redemption...just have some tissues handy.
I was fortunate to receive this book as a gift.
August 16, 2020
Very romantic
A very romantic, tragic, sad, hopeful love story.
All the emotions are communicated in such a way as let us lose ourself totally in the story. Short story but the intensity of the story would have been exhausting.
I will read it again some month. Thumbs up.
A very romantic, tragic, sad, hopeful love story.
All the emotions are communicated in such a way as let us lose ourself totally in the story. Short story but the intensity of the story would have been exhausting.
I will read it again some month. Thumbs up.
August 13, 2020
When the Sun Sleeps in the living proof an author can develop an entirely new story that is able to engage the reader and allow him to savour the sweet moments between the characters without ever feeling the action is being rushed to a conclusion.
In this novella, Fitzwilliam Darcy has lost everything that is dear to him and embarks on a trip to Scotland to try to leave all the sadness behind him, but when he stops at an him and hears the lady in the next room humming a song that is not only familiar but also very dear to him, his emotions take over him. Elizabeth is travelling with her Gardiner relations throughout the peak district and something in the gentleman’s voice who comes to her every night through a closed door sounds very familiar, maybe too familiar. But it could not be him, could it?
When the Sun Sleeps provides readers a story of second changes and hope. It develops a beautiful and intimate relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth that is endearing and will have you reading the entire novel in one single sitting. The dialogues between these characters are just perfect, and the feelings the novel entices in the reader are enough to make this a noteworthy story.
Mr. Darcy’s story is a little sad and dark on this novella, but instead of focusing too much on that, the author decided to focus on Elizabeth’s ability to bring Darcy into the light once more, in mending his wounded heart and give him his much deserved happiness. This is something all readers will appreciate in this story. Another aspect readers will love is Darcy’s vulnerability. We are used to see a strong unyielding Mr. Darcy, and in When the Sun Sleeps we meet him as a man in shatters in dire need to love and hope. That is what Elizabeth will give him in a wonderful romance.
I read When the Sun Sleeps in one single sitting and loved every second of it. It is a short and very well written sweet story that I highly recommend it.
In this novella, Fitzwilliam Darcy has lost everything that is dear to him and embarks on a trip to Scotland to try to leave all the sadness behind him, but when he stops at an him and hears the lady in the next room humming a song that is not only familiar but also very dear to him, his emotions take over him. Elizabeth is travelling with her Gardiner relations throughout the peak district and something in the gentleman’s voice who comes to her every night through a closed door sounds very familiar, maybe too familiar. But it could not be him, could it?
When the Sun Sleeps provides readers a story of second changes and hope. It develops a beautiful and intimate relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth that is endearing and will have you reading the entire novel in one single sitting. The dialogues between these characters are just perfect, and the feelings the novel entices in the reader are enough to make this a noteworthy story.
Mr. Darcy’s story is a little sad and dark on this novella, but instead of focusing too much on that, the author decided to focus on Elizabeth’s ability to bring Darcy into the light once more, in mending his wounded heart and give him his much deserved happiness. This is something all readers will appreciate in this story. Another aspect readers will love is Darcy’s vulnerability. We are used to see a strong unyielding Mr. Darcy, and in When the Sun Sleeps we meet him as a man in shatters in dire need to love and hope. That is what Elizabeth will give him in a wonderful romance.
I read When the Sun Sleeps in one single sitting and loved every second of it. It is a short and very well written sweet story that I highly recommend it.
May 16, 2024
A bittersweet novella. Wow, some parts brought me tears in my eyes.
Elizabeth and the Gardiner‘s are staying at an Inn for a few days, Darcy is closing up Pemberley to go to Scotland and trying to handle his grieving. As it happens he also finds himself in the same Inn, and even better yet, he‘s the room neighbour of Elizabeth Bennet. Though both don’t know it.
Now on you to find out more if you want to.
Darcy was so talkative to a ‚stranger‘ but then again, talking through a door with a ‚stranger‘ and you don‘t know if you will ever see him again makes it sometimes easier to talk to someone. This Darcy could express himself extremely well, I can only explain it as a letter or I see it as a letter in a sort. You don‘t see the person you talk to,it‘s like talking to yourself except that you‘re getting an answer. With a letter the same.. you don‘t see the person you write too, and mostly you get a reply.
Elizabeth is the same as in canon in my opinion. Witty, teasing. It was sweet to see how she brought the ‚stranger‘ aka Darcy out of his shelf through a door!
All in all it is such a sweet novella and I really recommend it if you haven‘t read it yet. It is clean, HEA for ODC, low angst and a quick read, I listened to it in one sitting (2 hours, couldn‘t put it down.). But keep tissues at hand.
You‘re not intrigued yet? Here‘s my favorite quote, from many other fabulous ones.
„Madam… she is my guiding star. When the sun sleeps, and all my other cares press on me, it is her light by which I seek to bend my steps.“
Elizabeth and the Gardiner‘s are staying at an Inn for a few days, Darcy is closing up Pemberley to go to Scotland and trying to handle his grieving. As it happens he also finds himself in the same Inn, and even better yet, he‘s the room neighbour of Elizabeth Bennet. Though both don’t know it.
Now on you to find out more if you want to.
Darcy was so talkative to a ‚stranger‘ but then again, talking through a door with a ‚stranger‘ and you don‘t know if you will ever see him again makes it sometimes easier to talk to someone. This Darcy could express himself extremely well, I can only explain it as a letter or I see it as a letter in a sort. You don‘t see the person you talk to,it‘s like talking to yourself except that you‘re getting an answer. With a letter the same.. you don‘t see the person you write too, and mostly you get a reply.
Elizabeth is the same as in canon in my opinion. Witty, teasing. It was sweet to see how she brought the ‚stranger‘ aka Darcy out of his shelf through a door!
All in all it is such a sweet novella and I really recommend it if you haven‘t read it yet. It is clean, HEA for ODC, low angst and a quick read, I listened to it in one sitting (2 hours, couldn‘t put it down.). But keep tissues at hand.
You‘re not intrigued yet? Here‘s my favorite quote, from many other fabulous ones.
„Madam… she is my guiding star. When the sun sleeps, and all my other cares press on me, it is her light by which I seek to bend my steps.“
October 10, 2020
This Pride and Prejudice variation novella is romantic and sweet, with a little sass. The tragic background, that of Darcy having lost much more than Elizabeth's hand after he left Hunsford, starts it out rather dreary. Secret, anonymous conversations through a locked door as a means toward love seemed kind of silly and unbelievable, until I read this book.
August 4, 2020
Dark but lovely
Money can’t buy everything and happiness with the one you love is priceless. Darcy leaves Pemberley to wander in his grief. He begins to speak of his troubles with the unknown lady in the room next door.
Money can’t buy everything and happiness with the one you love is priceless. Darcy leaves Pemberley to wander in his grief. He begins to speak of his troubles with the unknown lady in the room next door.
March 10, 2024
I know it's a cliché but if I could've given this book 10 stars I would. The story starts out with crushing heartbreak, moves into a teary-eyed, cry on mama's lap, kind of release with timid sharing of troubles, then the cheering spark of sweet charm, caring and light coming back to the darkness. Then hopefulness hand-in-hand with frustration and the two who need each other keep missing the other and then back to the quiet sharing through a door in an inn that allows anonymity and thus freedom.
"I wanted it to be you." The absolute joy. The proposal. Meeting Aunt and Uncle Gardiner (that took some explaining....) And Mr. Darcy's meeting with Mr. Bennet, utterly swoon-worthy. You can't miss that. You must read this.
"I wanted it to be you." The absolute joy. The proposal. Meeting Aunt and Uncle Gardiner (that took some explaining....) And Mr. Darcy's meeting with Mr. Bennet, utterly swoon-worthy. You can't miss that. You must read this.
November 8, 2020
This is such a sad story but is so lovely at the same time... poor Darcy is heartbroken. Not only is his heart broken for Elizabeth but Georgiana has also died. He cannot cope and decides to close Pemberton but has no where to go. He arrives at an Inn where he has conversations with Miss Gardiner in the room next door, through the door. They share their confidences and he is encouraged to go and try again with Elizabeth... not knowing she is the lovely Miss Gardiner in the adjoining room.
There is so much sadness here... Your heart just breaks for Darcy. The idea here is so original and lovely in terms of how our dear couple come to be reunited.
There is so much sadness here... Your heart just breaks for Darcy. The idea here is so original and lovely in terms of how our dear couple come to be reunited.
August 21, 2020
Beautiful, tragic, and heartfelt.
The other reviews do a wonderful job of summarizing the Novella.
The other reviews do a wonderful job of summarizing the Novella.
Read
January 14, 2021A touching and triumphant tale.
August 20, 2020
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, Darcy is struggling emotionally with depression, as a lot more has happened than a proposal refused. Elizabeth is anxious about being near the Peaks on holiday as she might run into Darcy and be embarrassed. Our dear couple meets without seeing each other and are able to use the separation almost as a confessional. The results bring our dear couple to a truly happy ever after.
There are so many feelings in this story - which is my favorite! They are not all happy, but the story eventually gets to the very joyful ones. I absolutely loved this book.
There are so many feelings in this story - which is my favorite! They are not all happy, but the story eventually gets to the very joyful ones. I absolutely loved this book.
September 18, 2020
Wonderful love story
I loved the story, so much sadness but in the end an overwhelming love! I thought this Lizzy and Darcy were very much looking toward the future after a bad beginning and remorseful for last opinions. Good story would have liked to have an epilogue!!!
I loved the story, so much sadness but in the end an overwhelming love! I thought this Lizzy and Darcy were very much looking toward the future after a bad beginning and remorseful for last opinions. Good story would have liked to have an epilogue!!!
October 26, 2021
Ha sido una variación corta de "Orgullo y prejuicio", que he disfrutado enormemente y que te atrapa desde sus primeras lineas, con unos giros argumentales que te sorprenden a cada momemto, llevándote a no querer parar de leer hasta terminarlo.
Encontramos a un Darcy profundamente desolado y a una Elizabeth viajando con sus decisiones sumando peso a su equipaje.
Es una historia donde las confesiones entre desconocidos serán consuelo, el arrullo de una canción paz y reconocer el alma la dicha.
Mi puntuación sus merecidas ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5.
Nuevamente mi agradecimiento eterno a @cristranslates89 por la oportunidad.
Encontramos a un Darcy profundamente desolado y a una Elizabeth viajando con sus decisiones sumando peso a su equipaje.
Es una historia donde las confesiones entre desconocidos serán consuelo, el arrullo de una canción paz y reconocer el alma la dicha.
Mi puntuación sus merecidas ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5.
Nuevamente mi agradecimiento eterno a @cristranslates89 por la oportunidad.
August 20, 2021
This novella presents an alternate version of the events that occurred after Elizabeth refused Darcy's first proposal, with some major departures from the original P&P.
Be prepared to feel some sadness for Darcy but the story ends in a HEA. I thought it was sweet and well written.
Be prepared to feel some sadness for Darcy but the story ends in a HEA. I thought it was sweet and well written.
November 28, 2022
Muy bonito . Realmente me hizo sentir en el mundo de Jane austen.
August 7, 2020
This short and sweet story is just what I needed. My luck recently in books I've read hasn't been great, but this story was so refreshing and romantic and engaging and even though it was only around 100 pages, it gave me the satisfaction and swoon worthy moments that I desired and needed!
I do admit that it was very painful and hard to feel the all encompassing pain and despair of poor Mr. Darcy. My heart was bleeding for him as I read how he had lost not only all that was dear to him, but his very hope in life. How touching it was to see an unusual conversation with a stranger breathe just a little bit of life back into him and begin a series of events to restore him to the living!
This story had all the elements to make it a truly wonderful reading experience. Just the right amount of humor and wit, romance and hope balanced beautifully and efficiently to give the reader a delicious dose of our favorite literary couple!
I do admit that it was very painful and hard to feel the all encompassing pain and despair of poor Mr. Darcy. My heart was bleeding for him as I read how he had lost not only all that was dear to him, but his very hope in life. How touching it was to see an unusual conversation with a stranger breathe just a little bit of life back into him and begin a series of events to restore him to the living!
This story had all the elements to make it a truly wonderful reading experience. Just the right amount of humor and wit, romance and hope balanced beautifully and efficiently to give the reader a delicious dose of our favorite literary couple!
March 9, 2021
Sad but sweet. Mr. Darcy has suffered three tragic losses in a short span of time, and now he's left Pemberley and is touring England alone and desperate. A coincidence brings him to the same inn Elizabeth and the Gardiners are staying in. Whispered conversations with a stranger, through a door, bring him some comfort and eventual love.
May 17, 2024
2024: upgraded to 4, as it’s a nice simple (in a good way!) story not too wordy, with strong feelings from ODC.
2021: Original plot, not plausible but that’s not a problem when it’s well written. A too long HEA to my taste.
2021: Original plot, not plausible but that’s not a problem when it’s well written. A too long HEA to my taste.
August 14, 2020
Whey the Sun Sleeps: A Pride and Prejudice Novella (Sweet Sentiments Book 1)
What a wonderful story. Sad in respect to the outcome of Georgiana's trip to Ramsgate for two of the story's secondary characters, but Darcy's heartbreak is heart wrenching to read. The infamous day in April at Hunsford was just the beginning of heartbreak for Darcy, but the letter he received after delivering his letter to Elizabeth, left him in the pit of despair. Returning to Pemberley to shroud the estate in black, a dejected and sorrowful Darcy leaves Pemberley to travel to Scotland. Also traveling north to the Peaks are the Gardiners and their niece Elizabeth. Call it fate, or in this case a well written plot, both wind up at the same inn for several nights. Elizabeth too excited to sleep and Darcy to forlorn to sleep, wind up talking through the double bolted doors that separates their rooms. It's the song Elizabeth is humming that draws Darcy to the doors, the same song she played and sang in Meryton which was also a favorite of Georgiana's. She manages to get Darcy to hum along with her and gets him to talk. As they talk, little remarks trigger words spoken before, but because neither have used their real names, both shake it off as a coincidence. The next night she manages to draw more of his story from him, but still not enough to identify one another. On the third night, Elizabeth gets a little more information about his regrets with the Love of his life while he hears about her regrets about misconceptions about a gentleman that loved her. A few gasps, but still not enough to be the defining moment for either ODB or ODG. She does convince him to go make amends. Miles from the inn Darcy's horse begins to limp. No horse was available at the next watering hole so he treks back to last nights inn. The Gardiners and Elizabeth remained also because her aunt was sick. When she realizes that her mysterious gentleman is still next door, they again begin to talk. This time she asks him the name of his lost love, and when he replies, "Elizabeth" she knows it's Darcy. She quickly hops up, slides the bolt back and opens her side of the joining rooms. Darcy does the same. They fall into each other's arms pledging love for one another. The HEA is well within their reach. Liked both Elizabeth and Darcy in this story. Throughout this story you could feel Elizabeth's sadness, guilt, and melancholy; and Darcy's heartbreak and anguish over what he has lost. At one point the reader isn't sure that he wants to go on. Finally, the happiness rolls from the pages and ODC are together happily married.
What a wonderful story. Sad in respect to the outcome of Georgiana's trip to Ramsgate for two of the story's secondary characters, but Darcy's heartbreak is heart wrenching to read. The infamous day in April at Hunsford was just the beginning of heartbreak for Darcy, but the letter he received after delivering his letter to Elizabeth, left him in the pit of despair. Returning to Pemberley to shroud the estate in black, a dejected and sorrowful Darcy leaves Pemberley to travel to Scotland. Also traveling north to the Peaks are the Gardiners and their niece Elizabeth. Call it fate, or in this case a well written plot, both wind up at the same inn for several nights. Elizabeth too excited to sleep and Darcy to forlorn to sleep, wind up talking through the double bolted doors that separates their rooms. It's the song Elizabeth is humming that draws Darcy to the doors, the same song she played and sang in Meryton which was also a favorite of Georgiana's. She manages to get Darcy to hum along with her and gets him to talk. As they talk, little remarks trigger words spoken before, but because neither have used their real names, both shake it off as a coincidence. The next night she manages to draw more of his story from him, but still not enough to identify one another. On the third night, Elizabeth gets a little more information about his regrets with the Love of his life while he hears about her regrets about misconceptions about a gentleman that loved her. A few gasps, but still not enough to be the defining moment for either ODB or ODG. She does convince him to go make amends. Miles from the inn Darcy's horse begins to limp. No horse was available at the next watering hole so he treks back to last nights inn. The Gardiners and Elizabeth remained also because her aunt was sick. When she realizes that her mysterious gentleman is still next door, they again begin to talk. This time she asks him the name of his lost love, and when he replies, "Elizabeth" she knows it's Darcy. She quickly hops up, slides the bolt back and opens her side of the joining rooms. Darcy does the same. They fall into each other's arms pledging love for one another. The HEA is well within their reach. Liked both Elizabeth and Darcy in this story. Throughout this story you could feel Elizabeth's sadness, guilt, and melancholy; and Darcy's heartbreak and anguish over what he has lost. At one point the reader isn't sure that he wants to go on. Finally, the happiness rolls from the pages and ODC are together happily married.
October 6, 2023
Elizabeth is on her northern tour with her aunt and uncle. During a stay at an inn she thinks about her situation. Mr Bingley has returned to Jane but she for her part has never again seen a glimpse of Mr Darcy. She now regrets her hasty refusal of the gentleman because she now understands that she might very well like and even love him. When she at night discovers that there is a lonely gentleman on the other side of the door she talks to him.
Darcy on his part is desperate. He has lost nearly everything that is dear to him and is now on his way to Scotland to forget and likely never to return. When he stops at an inn to stay there at night he discovers that there is a lady next door who comforts him.
Over several nights they talk to each other, both yearning for a chance to see their loved one one more time and make things right, not knowing that the desired person is only a few steps away. Will they discover the true identity of each other or will they part without knowing the truth? Is there a chance of a happy ending for the couple? Will they overcome their previous misunderstandings?
The story of the author Alix James is very well written and really heartbreaking. I had so much pity for Darcy for all the grief he had to endure (when I read the book the first time I really was weeping) and I also felt so sorry for Elizabeth because for her sorrow about treating Darcy the way she had treated him. There was so much sadness in the story. But I also felt comfort when Darcy and Elizabeth started talking through the door and told the interlocutor what had happened and the other listened and tried to give advice and comforting words. And I was so happy when the two were reunited at last and finally knew that they were loved by the other. This happy ending was so well deserved by ODC due to all the things they had to endure.
The story was narrated by Megan Green. She narrated some of Alix James' stories. I like the way she voiced the emotions, especially Darcy's grief. It was very well done.
If you are looking for a short, heartbreaking story this book/audiobook is for you.
I highly recommend the book and the audiobook. The book is on KU.
It is also part of Elizabeth Bennet: Sweet sentiments collection.
Darcy on his part is desperate. He has lost nearly everything that is dear to him and is now on his way to Scotland to forget and likely never to return. When he stops at an inn to stay there at night he discovers that there is a lady next door who comforts him.
Over several nights they talk to each other, both yearning for a chance to see their loved one one more time and make things right, not knowing that the desired person is only a few steps away. Will they discover the true identity of each other or will they part without knowing the truth? Is there a chance of a happy ending for the couple? Will they overcome their previous misunderstandings?
The story of the author Alix James is very well written and really heartbreaking. I had so much pity for Darcy for all the grief he had to endure (when I read the book the first time I really was weeping) and I also felt so sorry for Elizabeth because for her sorrow about treating Darcy the way she had treated him. There was so much sadness in the story. But I also felt comfort when Darcy and Elizabeth started talking through the door and told the interlocutor what had happened and the other listened and tried to give advice and comforting words. And I was so happy when the two were reunited at last and finally knew that they were loved by the other. This happy ending was so well deserved by ODC due to all the things they had to endure.
The story was narrated by Megan Green. She narrated some of Alix James' stories. I like the way she voiced the emotions, especially Darcy's grief. It was very well done.
If you are looking for a short, heartbreaking story this book/audiobook is for you.
I highly recommend the book and the audiobook. The book is on KU.
It is also part of Elizabeth Bennet: Sweet sentiments collection.
May 28, 2025
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is Book 1 in the Sweet Sentiments series. A short and sassy romance for busy readers. Disappointed hopes and the kindness of a stranger.
Elizabeth Bennet is as content as a girl with a wounded heart can be. Mr. Bingley has returned to Jane with promising attentions, and all is well, except that no one knows what has become of Mr. Darcy. Shadowed by regrets of the past, Elizabeth means only to enjoy her tour of the Peaks with her aunt and uncle, declining a chance to view Pemberley. The party takes rooms at an inn, and Elizabeth discovers a very lonely gentleman has taken the room next to hers.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has lost nearly all the people dearest to him. Too late to save some, and too humbled to reach out to others, he does the only thing he can think of, he leaves all his memories behind for a time, uncertain if or when he will ever return. On his way to Scotland, he stops in an unfamiliar town for the night, and finds a friend in the faceless voice next door. If only their paths would cross in the daylight, so he could learn who she is. As the nights pass, and casual exchanges become deep confidences, Darcy and Elizabeth each find their hearts aching for the one they lost.
Elizabeth wishes with all her heart that she could see Mr. Darcy one more time, to let him know how her feelings have changed. The least she can do is advise this stranger in the next room not to give up hope on the woman he loves. When Darcy at last decides to seek Elizabeth Bennet and ask one more time for her hand, will he accidentally be riding away from her, instead? Find out in this delicious, gently paced story of mistakes and redemption. 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 Book 1 in the Sweet Sentiments series. A short and sassy romance for busy readers. Disappointed hopes and the kindness of a stranger.
Elizabeth Bennet is as content as a girl with a wounded heart can be. Mr. Bingley has returned to Jane with promising attentions, and all is well, except that no one knows what has become of Mr. Darcy. Shadowed by regrets of the past, Elizabeth means only to enjoy her tour of the Peaks with her aunt and uncle, declining a chance to view Pemberley. The party takes rooms at an inn, and Elizabeth discovers a very lonely gentleman has taken the room next to hers.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has lost nearly all the people dearest to him. Too late to save some, and too humbled to reach out to others, he does the only thing he can think of, he leaves all his memories behind for a time, uncertain if or when he will ever return. On his way to Scotland, he stops in an unfamiliar town for the night, and finds a friend in the faceless voice next door. If only their paths would cross in the daylight, so he could learn who she is. As the nights pass, and casual exchanges become deep confidences, Darcy and Elizabeth each find their hearts aching for the one they lost.
Elizabeth wishes with all her heart that she could see Mr. Darcy one more time, to let him know how her feelings have changed. The least she can do is advise this stranger in the next room not to give up hope on the woman he loves. When Darcy at last decides to seek Elizabeth Bennet and ask one more time for her hand, will he accidentally be riding away from her, instead? Find out in this delicious, gently paced story of mistakes and redemption. 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.
August 6, 2020
Wonderful
A more serious and dramatic theme than the other novellas by Alix James. Her previous short stories have all been carefree, cute and humorous tales, but not this time. The story begins several months after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage. Elizabeth is touring Derbyshire and the Lake District with the Gardiners. Darcy is at an extreme low point in his life, and is traveling to escape his life and come to terms with recent events. He has recently lost the family members that he cared for the most, and then, of course, there was Elizabeth's rejection. Elizabeth and Darcy are staying at the same inn, unbeknownst to each other, and in adjoining rooms. They strike up an anonymous conversation through the wall, and find comfort in their little interlude.
The premise is, of course, ludicrous, and the depth of the conversations is impossible, but if you can just suspend belief and go with it, it's a wonderful heartbreaking and heartwarming tale. This is a Darcy at his most vulnerable, and Elizabeth at her most nurturing. They are both broken people, more than ready to be redeemed. The amount of misfortune heaped upon Darcy almost threatened to sink his chances of finding salvation, but luckily his reunion with Elizabeth proves to be enough to uplift him.
The book is well written and well edited. Be ready for a very sad story before you get to the romance. It's worth the time. I recommend it highly.
A more serious and dramatic theme than the other novellas by Alix James. Her previous short stories have all been carefree, cute and humorous tales, but not this time. The story begins several months after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage. Elizabeth is touring Derbyshire and the Lake District with the Gardiners. Darcy is at an extreme low point in his life, and is traveling to escape his life and come to terms with recent events. He has recently lost the family members that he cared for the most, and then, of course, there was Elizabeth's rejection. Elizabeth and Darcy are staying at the same inn, unbeknownst to each other, and in adjoining rooms. They strike up an anonymous conversation through the wall, and find comfort in their little interlude.
The premise is, of course, ludicrous, and the depth of the conversations is impossible, but if you can just suspend belief and go with it, it's a wonderful heartbreaking and heartwarming tale. This is a Darcy at his most vulnerable, and Elizabeth at her most nurturing. They are both broken people, more than ready to be redeemed. The amount of misfortune heaped upon Darcy almost threatened to sink his chances of finding salvation, but luckily his reunion with Elizabeth proves to be enough to uplift him.
The book is well written and well edited. Be ready for a very sad story before you get to the romance. It's worth the time. I recommend it highly.
May 18, 2021
3.75 stars
I tend not to rate novellas 5 stars unless they completely blow my mind because I find there's never enough content for me to really fall head over heels for.
This story follows that line of logic, but that's OK. Because what this story does to counteract it's brevity is it settles into the pre-established characterization of the original work such that it just feels like an alternate ending. So keep in mind, that if you don't know the basic plot of Pride and Prejudice, you'll be missing quite a bit of context. Not enough that I think it would be unenjoyable, but enough that the characters may not seem all that believable in their actions. And I say that as an individual who has not actually read the Austen's original.
In this alternate ending, Darcy is completely blinded by his grief, Elizabeth is pining in her regret and they meet by pure happenstance, without even knowing who the other is. It's quite brilliant if I do say so myself, with a sweet and endearing plot line that while not terribly intricate is quite beautiful in it's simplicity.
I really would've loved to see this story as full novel, with more exposition and content overall, but knowing it for what it is, I'm quite appeased by it.
I tend not to rate novellas 5 stars unless they completely blow my mind because I find there's never enough content for me to really fall head over heels for.
This story follows that line of logic, but that's OK. Because what this story does to counteract it's brevity is it settles into the pre-established characterization of the original work such that it just feels like an alternate ending. So keep in mind, that if you don't know the basic plot of Pride and Prejudice, you'll be missing quite a bit of context. Not enough that I think it would be unenjoyable, but enough that the characters may not seem all that believable in their actions. And I say that as an individual who has not actually read the Austen's original.
In this alternate ending, Darcy is completely blinded by his grief, Elizabeth is pining in her regret and they meet by pure happenstance, without even knowing who the other is. It's quite brilliant if I do say so myself, with a sweet and endearing plot line that while not terribly intricate is quite beautiful in it's simplicity.
I really would've loved to see this story as full novel, with more exposition and content overall, but knowing it for what it is, I'm quite appeased by it.
March 13, 2023
Sin duda alguna está novela que aunque es cortita me sorprendió muchísimo y me hizo sentir un montón de emociones en mi interior y llorar a mares por nuestros protagonistas preferidos.
Esta muy bien escrita y en todo momento siente uno lo que ellos están sintiendo , sobre todo Darcy, como no amarlo en esta novela ...la historia se da en una posada donde cada uno sin saber están ahí, Darcy- ha perdido mucho y está desolado , Lizzy por su parte también está triste , ellos se ponen a platicar sin saber quién es quién y es que solo una puerta está de por medio, me gustó muchísimo como ellos abren sus corazones y se dan consuelo mutuamente sin saber , me desgarro el alma lo mal que Darcy lo estaba pasando y llore a mares en casi toda la novela y el final es muy satisfactorio, puedo decir sin ninguna duda que la autora se sacó un 10 con esta pequeña historia, la recomiendo muchísimo , ya que se puede leer en una tardecita
Esta muy bien escrita y en todo momento siente uno lo que ellos están sintiendo , sobre todo Darcy, como no amarlo en esta novela ...la historia se da en una posada donde cada uno sin saber están ahí, Darcy- ha perdido mucho y está desolado , Lizzy por su parte también está triste , ellos se ponen a platicar sin saber quién es quién y es que solo una puerta está de por medio, me gustó muchísimo como ellos abren sus corazones y se dan consuelo mutuamente sin saber , me desgarro el alma lo mal que Darcy lo estaba pasando y llore a mares en casi toda la novela y el final es muy satisfactorio, puedo decir sin ninguna duda que la autora se sacó un 10 con esta pequeña historia, la recomiendo muchísimo , ya que se puede leer en una tardecita
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