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Miss Gardiner: A Variation on Pride and Prejudice
When Elizabeth Bennet was a child, she listened to her uncle’s story about investing monies into trade ventures. With determination, she handed over her coin purse to Edward Gardiner and made her first investment. Just before Christmas while she was a teenager, Elizabeth’s purse disappears. That same afternoon, when Mrs. Bennet and her sisters return with cloth for new gowns, new bonnets, and new shoes, Elizabeth learns that her mother spent her savings, but Mr. Bennet refuses to intervene. He speaks plainly to Elizabeth about her future and in reaction, she asks to visit the Gardiners in London. At the house on Gracechurch Street, the Gardiners agree for Elizabeth to remain with them and she works with her uncle’s account books and the warehouse inventories in addition to sewing and reading. The young woman listens closely to the men calling on Uncle Edward to discuss sales to merchants and the delivery of goods from ships at the docks. A few years later, a mortgage foreclosure is forced upon Fitzwilliam Darcy by Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and he needs to raise funds before Christmas. Darcy approaches Mr. Gardiner, a successful tradesman, to help with the sale of luxury items stored haphazardly by his late mother in the London mansion. After viewing the treasures, Mr. Gardiner suggest they create an accurate inventory of all the items as they are removed from the Darcy home in Mayfair to track them properly. Mr. Gardiner asks Elizabeth to create the record of the items to be sold and to protect her reputation, she becomes ‘Miss Gardiner’ for two months, and she makes a lasting impression on Mr. Darcy. With Elizabeth in London, Darcy joins Bingley and his family at Netherfield that fall. Elizabeth is not there to help chaperone her sister Jane in Mr. Bingley’s company and the young couple become overcome by their passions. When Bingley deserts Netherfield following the ball, and Jane is discovered to have allowed Mr. Bingley favours reserved for marriage, the eldest Miss Bennet is disowned and forced from Longbourn in disgrace. Elizabeth rescues her sister and again she finds refuge at Gracechurch Street. With the encouragement of his sister, Darcy realizes that ‘Miss Gardiner’ is an exceptional woman and approaches Mr. Gardiner for permission to call on his niece. He is surprized to discover that the young woman is actually Miss Elizabeth Bennet, the missing sister from Longbourn last year. They begin a quiet courtship with the approval of the Gardiners as well as Miss Darcy. But the next summer Jane dies and when Elizabeth’s grief for her sister is too deep, Mrs. Gardiner arranges for Elizabeth to visit Hunsford. Serendipitously, Mr. Darcy is nearby at Rosings and they share daily walks with a local chaperone. When Mr. Bingley is reported coming to Rosings, Darcy takes steps to prevent Bingley’s arrival.
181 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 6, 2020
62 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
July 16, 2023
Warning, if you can't take the lovable Jane/Bingley as anything other than lovable, do not read. B is not canon in this one.
That being said, I really liked this version of Elizabeth, strong from a young age, taken in by the Gardiners. Darcy too is a softer version of himself, in a way. He is not have the over-proud, bitter man the ton mamas made him in to. They slowly get to know each other and he actually asks to court her - gasp!
Mr. Bennet is a piece of cake, although for the most part the Bennet's take a back seat in this story.
Charlotte Collins is awesome in her little role!
Another one I couldn't put down till I finished it.
That being said, I really liked this version of Elizabeth, strong from a young age, taken in by the Gardiners. Darcy too is a softer version of himself, in a way. He is not have the over-proud, bitter man the ton mamas made him in to. They slowly get to know each other and he actually asks to court her - gasp!
Mr. Bennet is a piece of cake, although for the most part the Bennet's take a back seat in this story.
Charlotte Collins is awesome in her little role!
Another one I couldn't put down till I finished it.
January 21, 2023
The Bennets know Havoc
A very original story. Lizzy moves in with the Gardiners. Jane knows great disappointment. I would give 3 stars for level of writing but 4 stars for originality. Lady Catherine is the face of evil.
spoilers
The passing of Jane Gardiner née Bennet caused me to use two Kleenex. Possibly the saddest passage I’ve read in a variation.
A very original story. Lizzy moves in with the Gardiners. Jane knows great disappointment. I would give 3 stars for level of writing but 4 stars for originality. Lady Catherine is the face of evil.
spoilers
The passing of Jane Gardiner née Bennet caused me to use two Kleenex. Possibly the saddest passage I’ve read in a variation.
November 3, 2020
"Just when I thought I was out, they pulled me back in"
I keep reading books by this author and no matter how good the beginning by the end I am wailing and gnashing my teeth.
Pros: The author does take some bold risks in the P&P what if Genre
Cons: everything else.
In this P&P what if Lizzy, who is a bit of a Cinderella and a bit of a Mary Sue, becomes estranged from her family when her sister Lydia steals Lizzy's savings and Mrs. Bennet spends them. I would have preferred a version where Lydia and Mrs. Bennet were hanged.
So instead of Lizzy meeting Darcy at the assembly she meets him through her uncle's business. There is much less Pride and Prejudice and Darcy doesn't meet her as Lizzy Bennet but Lizzy Gardiner long story don't ask
They meet because Darcy has to settle some debts of his father's that were perhaps frauded by the Lady Cand Darcy needs to liquidate some heirlooms.
After this Bingley and pals go to Meryton and Lizzy isn't there but the rest of the Bennets are. We get a bastard Bingley ©
Meanwhile Lizzy is friendly with Georgiana which brings Darcy into her orbit and they are friendly.
More bad stuff and dumb stuff happens and Eventually Lizzy is at Hunsford while Darcy is at Rosings.
And blah blah blah Bingley gets his comeuppance, not really, Caroline gets her comeuppance and they all live happily ever after
At least according to the long pointless epilogue.
Too may stupid errors to get 4 stars
I keep reading books by this author and no matter how good the beginning by the end I am wailing and gnashing my teeth.
Pros: The author does take some bold risks in the P&P what if Genre
Cons: everything else.
In this P&P what if Lizzy, who is a bit of a Cinderella and a bit of a Mary Sue, becomes estranged from her family when her sister Lydia steals Lizzy's savings and Mrs. Bennet spends them. I would have preferred a version where Lydia and Mrs. Bennet were hanged.
So instead of Lizzy meeting Darcy at the assembly she meets him through her uncle's business. There is much less Pride and Prejudice and Darcy doesn't meet her as Lizzy Bennet but Lizzy Gardiner long story don't ask
They meet because Darcy has to settle some debts of his father's that were perhaps frauded by the Lady Cand Darcy needs to liquidate some heirlooms.
After this Bingley and pals go to Meryton and Lizzy isn't there but the rest of the Bennets are. We get a bastard Bingley ©
Meanwhile Lizzy is friendly with Georgiana which brings Darcy into her orbit and they are friendly.
More bad stuff and dumb stuff happens and Eventually Lizzy is at Hunsford while Darcy is at Rosings.
And blah blah blah Bingley gets his comeuppance, not really, Caroline gets her comeuppance and they all live happily ever after
At least according to the long pointless epilogue.
Too may stupid errors to get 4 stars
February 9, 2021
A disjointed & emotionally devoid dry JAFF. I don't recommend.
Synopsis:
The duplicity of Lady C has left Darcy in a financial pickle where he needs funds before the banks can start claiming ownership to his assets.
Through the suggestion of his contacts he engages successful business man Mr Gardiner who in turn has his niece Lizzy -going by the alias Miss Gardiner to safeguard her reputation- oversee the inventory Lady Anne Darcy (renowned hoarder) amassed to sell for profit.
Through this introduction supposedly Darcy develops a 'tendre' for Lizzy, but you will scarcely notice it until it is suggested by Georgiana.
Lizzy had been the ward of the Gardiners for the better part of her life as Mrs B is a shrew and Mr B as indolent as ever so much so he doesn't even miss her. She has been learning maths and investments.
What I Enjoyed:
The premise is something I want to explore but not with such dry bare bones writing. This yarn is an emotional poverty, just an absolute zombie of a JAFF.
So much so that there is a major beloved character death and I barely blinked an eye, that's how detached from the characters I was!
Little Henry, Lizzy’s escort in her walks at Rosings was cute.
Caro trying to forced her way into the Darcy house and the butler not having it was refreshing when so often a plot device in JAFF is antagonists easily barging in to homes.
Caro:
One of the scarce charming exchanges:
What Displeased Me:
The dialogue lacks animation, it is so stilted and monotone; factual statements no intonation conveyed or idiosyncrasies included.
-Little to no inner thought shared with reader
One of those grating reads where Lizzy says something lame and everyone laughs
Scenes end always in odd interrupted notes, awkward. The writing overall was weird, i.e. Kinda spoiler but not super,
Darcy and Lizzy developing feelings for each other was not at all demonstrated it felt out of nowhere. They truly had the chemistry and page presence of two upturned mops with a bucket for a hat.
This is nitpick-y in the scale of things however it became grating to mine eyes; ‘de Bourgh’ is spelled ‘de Burgh’ the entire novel.
By the end nothing felt accomplished or resolved, it was just over.
Verdict:
I am a slut for Lizzy being an independent go getter, living with the Gardiners and having her own money so the premise had me in a tizzy of anticipation.
The first few chapters as the story is laid out you wouldn't notice too much or mind the telling not showing since we are being introduced to the basic set up, but soon it is undeniable that this lacks personality, character introspection and any depth.
Everything that makes ODC epic love is stripped they are minimized to a dry couple with a smooth pulseless courtship.
I don't get what the message or purpose of this story was. It wasn't a plot so much as a series of extraneous events, none of which were interesting or worth exploring.
The events didn't lead to any character growth, no lessons were learned, everything was just something that happened to happen. Maybe in a way that’s accurate for life but it is not a story, at least not a well planned or interesting one..
Pretty boring, seriously had to hunker down to finish it, my eyes kept straying to more tempting JAFF…
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?It’s hard to say, since outwardly their action seem logical but without any character perspective or insight what is the reader to assume drives them? Their feelings and reasoning are a mystery, really weak writing.
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?No, I was fairly bored.
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? The writing was as dull as they come.
Synopsis:
The duplicity of Lady C has left Darcy in a financial pickle where he needs funds before the banks can start claiming ownership to his assets.
Through the suggestion of his contacts he engages successful business man Mr Gardiner who in turn has his niece Lizzy -going by the alias Miss Gardiner to safeguard her reputation- oversee the inventory Lady Anne Darcy (renowned hoarder) amassed to sell for profit.
Through this introduction supposedly Darcy develops a 'tendre' for Lizzy, but you will scarcely notice it until it is suggested by Georgiana.
Lizzy had been the ward of the Gardiners for the better part of her life as Mrs B is a shrew and Mr B as indolent as ever so much so he doesn't even miss her. She has been learning maths and investments.
What I Enjoyed:
The premise is something I want to explore but not with such dry bare bones writing. This yarn is an emotional poverty, just an absolute zombie of a JAFF.
So much so that there is a major beloved character death and I barely blinked an eye, that's how detached from the characters I was!
Little Henry, Lizzy’s escort in her walks at Rosings was cute.
Caro trying to forced her way into the Darcy house and the butler not having it was refreshing when so often a plot device in JAFF is antagonists easily barging in to homes.
The imposing butler blocked entry into the house.
“Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst to see Miss Darcy,” Caroline announced when the man did not open the door and allow them entrance.
“Miss Darcy does not receive callers, miss,” the man says in a cold voice. “No one in the family is home for callers.”
“What?” Caroline cries. “We have called on Miss Darcy many times this spring.”
“I am afraid you are mistaken, miss. Miss Darcy never receives callers. When Mr. Bingley called on Mr. Darcy, the master may have included Miss Darcy but she was never ‘called on’,” explained Mr. Banks as though educating a child.
“Then let me leave my card,” Caroline stated.
“Miss Bingley, ladies do not leave calling cards for children. Perhaps your sister or brother can give you the necessary instruction.”
Caro:
One of the scarce charming exchanges:
"Where is your shop, Mr. Garden? Is it in the fashionable part of London?”
Mr. Gardiner nodded politely at Miss Bingley’s question with the incorrect name, “I am certain you have never been in my establishment, Miss Bangley.”
“Yes… well,” Miss Bingley said as she blushed. “We are settled in London now and will join the gentry…”
“I thought the gentry were in the countryside?” asked Miss Gardiner. “Landowners and their families I believe.”
What Displeased Me:
The dialogue lacks animation, it is so stilted and monotone; factual statements no intonation conveyed or idiosyncrasies included.
-Little to no inner thought shared with reader
One of those grating reads where Lizzy says something lame and everyone laughs
Scenes end always in odd interrupted notes, awkward. The writing overall was weird, i.e. Kinda spoiler but not super,
Darcy and Lizzy developing feelings for each other was not at all demonstrated it felt out of nowhere. They truly had the chemistry and page presence of two upturned mops with a bucket for a hat.
This is nitpick-y in the scale of things however it became grating to mine eyes; ‘de Bourgh’ is spelled ‘de Burgh’ the entire novel.
By the end nothing felt accomplished or resolved, it was just over.
Verdict:
I am a slut for Lizzy being an independent go getter, living with the Gardiners and having her own money so the premise had me in a tizzy of anticipation.
The first few chapters as the story is laid out you wouldn't notice too much or mind the telling not showing since we are being introduced to the basic set up, but soon it is undeniable that this lacks personality, character introspection and any depth.
Everything that makes ODC epic love is stripped they are minimized to a dry couple with a smooth pulseless courtship.
I don't get what the message or purpose of this story was. It wasn't a plot so much as a series of extraneous events, none of which were interesting or worth exploring.
The events didn't lead to any character growth, no lessons were learned, everything was just something that happened to happen. Maybe in a way that’s accurate for life but it is not a story, at least not a well planned or interesting one..
Pretty boring, seriously had to hunker down to finish it, my eyes kept straying to more tempting JAFF…
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?It’s hard to say, since outwardly their action seem logical but without any character perspective or insight what is the reader to assume drives them? Their feelings and reasoning are a mystery, really weak writing.
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?No, I was fairly bored.
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? The writing was as dull as they come.
October 6, 2020
This story features an "aware" version of Elizabeth Bennet who lives in London with her aunt and uncle, as her family (except Jane) has no understanding of her. She is thoughtful, enterprising and intelligent.
A scheme hatched by Lady Catherine puts Fitzwilliam Darcy in a bind for ready cash. He hires Mr. Gardiner to sell his deceased mother's binge shopping collection which fills the Darcy House ballroom. 'Miss Gardiner' turns the Darcy's world upside down in a good way as her personality shines through will she does the inventory and coordinates the goods out of the house.
Back in Meryton, Bingley has rented Netherfield and Darcy goes to visit. Darcy is called home but Bingley does more than court Jane Bennet. The situation with Jane causes a delay in Darcy's courting. However, patience, love and understanding are the winners of the day.
I enjoyed the story but felt as though the focus in the "cover" information focused to much on Elizabeth's financial interests. It really wasn't critical to the story. The Bennet family apathy was a much bigger storyline. This plot also contains a lot of hurtful gossip and a unpleasant Bingley.
A scheme hatched by Lady Catherine puts Fitzwilliam Darcy in a bind for ready cash. He hires Mr. Gardiner to sell his deceased mother's binge shopping collection which fills the Darcy House ballroom. 'Miss Gardiner' turns the Darcy's world upside down in a good way as her personality shines through will she does the inventory and coordinates the goods out of the house.
Back in Meryton, Bingley has rented Netherfield and Darcy goes to visit. Darcy is called home but Bingley does more than court Jane Bennet. The situation with Jane causes a delay in Darcy's courting. However, patience, love and understanding are the winners of the day.
I enjoyed the story but felt as though the focus in the "cover" information focused to much on Elizabeth's financial interests. It really wasn't critical to the story. The Bennet family apathy was a much bigger storyline. This plot also contains a lot of hurtful gossip and a unpleasant Bingley.
July 17, 2023
3.5*
Second reading - 3*. I did not enjoy this as much on the second reading as I found the typos and grammar/language errors grated rather more than on first reading. The plot remains interesting if a little implausible at times.
First reading - 4*. This is an enjoyable and endearing read. The on-line description is very long so no need for anymore here. It does have errors, both typos and grammatical but it did make a good read.
Second reading - 3*. I did not enjoy this as much on the second reading as I found the typos and grammar/language errors grated rather more than on first reading. The plot remains interesting if a little implausible at times.
First reading - 4*. This is an enjoyable and endearing read. The on-line description is very long so no need for anymore here. It does have errors, both typos and grammatical but it did make a good read.
September 12, 2022
An interesting variation. The summary is detailed (in fact too detailed that it takes some mystery out of the story). The story just needed a bit more emotion and drama. I like stories without the clash between Darcy and Elizabeth. This is one of them.
September 10, 2020
The Author Forgets the Premise
This totally AU variation starts with a premise of Elizabeth destined to leave Meryton and build her own next egg to avoid dependence. She moves to London to live with her Aunt and Uncle, becoming an integral part of their family and firm. Through this maneuver she meets and befriends the Darcys, first as a mentor of sorts to Georgiana and later, unexplained, as an object of affection and admiration to Darcy. The balance of the story portrays an alternative course for the other major characters. It's an interesting plot that completely lacks any emotion. Nada. Someone needs to insert some blood and a pulse here.
This totally AU variation starts with a premise of Elizabeth destined to leave Meryton and build her own next egg to avoid dependence. She moves to London to live with her Aunt and Uncle, becoming an integral part of their family and firm. Through this maneuver she meets and befriends the Darcys, first as a mentor of sorts to Georgiana and later, unexplained, as an object of affection and admiration to Darcy. The balance of the story portrays an alternative course for the other major characters. It's an interesting plot that completely lacks any emotion. Nada. Someone needs to insert some blood and a pulse here.
September 13, 2020
Avid Reader
Jane met a side demise giving birth to Charles ' Bingley 's son after he deserted her, and the Bennet family three her out of the house with nothing except the clothes on her back and love letters from Charles. Elizabeth and Darcy met each other via Mr. Gardenier because Lady Catherine had forged his father's signature on the mortgage of several farms. After Darcy paid the mortgage, he kept the property. Anne married a wealthy man and had three children. After she slapped Louisa, Hurst put her out. The Gardenier raised Jane 's son, and he became an attorney. Darcy and Elizabeth worked through all of their challenges and emerged as better people.
Jane met a side demise giving birth to Charles ' Bingley 's son after he deserted her, and the Bennet family three her out of the house with nothing except the clothes on her back and love letters from Charles. Elizabeth and Darcy met each other via Mr. Gardenier because Lady Catherine had forged his father's signature on the mortgage of several farms. After Darcy paid the mortgage, he kept the property. Anne married a wealthy man and had three children. After she slapped Louisa, Hurst put her out. The Gardenier raised Jane 's son, and he became an attorney. Darcy and Elizabeth worked through all of their challenges and emerged as better people.
December 8, 2022
Mixed bag *spoiler alert*
The story line was an interesting variation. The writing was simplistic with little character development. The kindle edition was so riddled with spelling, grammar, and continuity errors that the reading experience was rather annoying.
Elizabeth, Darcy, and the Gardiners are the focus of the story and had the most character development. Elizabeth did little teasing, and there was no brooding from Darcy. There was little romance or sparks in the relationship.
But the plot was interesting and hats why the flaws were so disappointing. There is a framework for a great book here.
I have read several of this author’s books and the plot is always interesting and creative. An editor would make them really great books
The story line was an interesting variation. The writing was simplistic with little character development. The kindle edition was so riddled with spelling, grammar, and continuity errors that the reading experience was rather annoying.
Elizabeth, Darcy, and the Gardiners are the focus of the story and had the most character development. Elizabeth did little teasing, and there was no brooding from Darcy. There was little romance or sparks in the relationship.
But the plot was interesting and hats why the flaws were so disappointing. There is a framework for a great book here.
I have read several of this author’s books and the plot is always interesting and creative. An editor would make them really great books
October 29, 2023
Good book
I liked this story it was all about, greed, love bad behavior and the consequences. The villains got their die and the love story was good too.!!
I liked this story it was all about, greed, love bad behavior and the consequences. The villains got their die and the love story was good too.!!
May 25, 2023
Miss Gardiner
Before I even get into my review, Miss Gardiner is Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Elizabeth grew up at Longbourne, but it seems like neither parent really understood the young girl that was eager to learn. So many of Elizabeth’s math abilities and understanding trade and its impact on finances stemmed from her living with and her relationship with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. Enter Fitzwilliam Darcy. Darcy’s mother liked to buy all sorts of things: wine, liquor, fabric, dishes, furniture. You name it, she bought it! Not to use mind you, just to horde. Darcy inherited this mess from his father as he didn’t want to bother with getting rid of the stuff accumulated in the third story ballroom. Enter Edward Gardiner to sell these items for Darcy. Elizabeth has been living with the Gardiners for years and her uncle suggests her to inventory the items in the ballroom. Hence, her name so that the daughter of a gentleman is not working for money and stigmatized by the snobs of London. After a rough start with Georgianna, they become close friends. Caroline Bingley is still a witch, but in this story, her brother is beyond pale. He forsakes Jane in Meryton, and she dies in this story from “heartbreak”. Hint: almost makes Wickham look like a saint. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy converge on Rosings to help chose a husband for Anne de Bourgh. Elizabeth is visiting Charlotte Collins at the same time. Darcy was already in love with her, but was waiting until her mourning was over to propose. HEA for ODC. One of those stories where there were people to choose from - whose neck to wring first: Caroline Bingley, Charles Bingley, Wickham, or Lady Catherine. Throw in Mr. and Mrs. Bennet as idiots, too. I must admit that Bingley takes the donkey’s ass award.
Before I even get into my review, Miss Gardiner is Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Elizabeth grew up at Longbourne, but it seems like neither parent really understood the young girl that was eager to learn. So many of Elizabeth’s math abilities and understanding trade and its impact on finances stemmed from her living with and her relationship with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. Enter Fitzwilliam Darcy. Darcy’s mother liked to buy all sorts of things: wine, liquor, fabric, dishes, furniture. You name it, she bought it! Not to use mind you, just to horde. Darcy inherited this mess from his father as he didn’t want to bother with getting rid of the stuff accumulated in the third story ballroom. Enter Edward Gardiner to sell these items for Darcy. Elizabeth has been living with the Gardiners for years and her uncle suggests her to inventory the items in the ballroom. Hence, her name so that the daughter of a gentleman is not working for money and stigmatized by the snobs of London. After a rough start with Georgianna, they become close friends. Caroline Bingley is still a witch, but in this story, her brother is beyond pale. He forsakes Jane in Meryton, and she dies in this story from “heartbreak”. Hint: almost makes Wickham look like a saint. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy converge on Rosings to help chose a husband for Anne de Bourgh. Elizabeth is visiting Charlotte Collins at the same time. Darcy was already in love with her, but was waiting until her mourning was over to propose. HEA for ODC. One of those stories where there were people to choose from - whose neck to wring first: Caroline Bingley, Charles Bingley, Wickham, or Lady Catherine. Throw in Mr. and Mrs. Bennet as idiots, too. I must admit that Bingley takes the donkey’s ass award.
September 17, 2020
Interesting story
This story keeps the characters and changed the events and more importantly the results of these changes. Darcy meets Elizabeth in London and doesn't know she is a Bennet from Hertfordshire. She's assisting her uncle with the inventory of the items Lady Anne purchased and never used Sounds as though she was a rich hoarder. Charles seduced Jane, asking her to marry him, and then decamping to London never to return. She died in childbirth.....so sad.
I liked that the angst wasn't between Darcy and Elizabeth but with other characters - Lady Catherine, The Bennet parents, and even the Lucases.
What I don't like is the abrupt ending of the story. There's an epilogue but it simply ends! Too many writers have difficulty with pulling the ending together effectively.
This story keeps the characters and changed the events and more importantly the results of these changes. Darcy meets Elizabeth in London and doesn't know she is a Bennet from Hertfordshire. She's assisting her uncle with the inventory of the items Lady Anne purchased and never used Sounds as though she was a rich hoarder. Charles seduced Jane, asking her to marry him, and then decamping to London never to return. She died in childbirth.....so sad.
I liked that the angst wasn't between Darcy and Elizabeth but with other characters - Lady Catherine, The Bennet parents, and even the Lucases.
What I don't like is the abrupt ending of the story. There's an epilogue but it simply ends! Too many writers have difficulty with pulling the ending together effectively.
June 19, 2023
A series of unfortunate events
The story started off well enough, but it lost its steam.
I love the early scene with Darcy and his law firm. Unfortunately, there was no detail of how Lady Catherine and Matlock received the news about Darcy's intelligence and how it hurt the Fitzwilliam family.
There was a character death, but it didn't pull at my heartstrings.
Once the setting switched to Rosings, I lost interest. Everyone and every situation was dry, even Darcy, Elizabeth, and the Colonel.
I didn't understand giving so much attention to Anne and her suitors when they didn't have speaking parts. The story's beginning led me to believe Anne had a drinking problem. I don't know if that was the case or not.
The story started off well enough, but it lost its steam.
I love the early scene with Darcy and his law firm. Unfortunately, there was no detail of how Lady Catherine and Matlock received the news about Darcy's intelligence and how it hurt the Fitzwilliam family.
There was a character death, but it didn't pull at my heartstrings.
Once the setting switched to Rosings, I lost interest. Everyone and every situation was dry, even Darcy, Elizabeth, and the Colonel.
I didn't understand giving so much attention to Anne and her suitors when they didn't have speaking parts. The story's beginning led me to believe Anne had a drinking problem. I don't know if that was the case or not.
September 15, 2020
This is a wonderful story very well written.
Very different from others I have read and I have read a few believe me.
This new author (or at least new to me) is pumping the stories out but they are all worth the effort of reading them. This one bought me to tears on more than one occasion with what the character where experiencing, I was with them and that does not happen often to me. I stayed up too late to finish it which I try not to do but could not resist.
I so recommend this book
Very different from others I have read and I have read a few believe me.
This new author (or at least new to me) is pumping the stories out but they are all worth the effort of reading them. This one bought me to tears on more than one occasion with what the character where experiencing, I was with them and that does not happen often to me. I stayed up too late to finish it which I try not to do but could not resist.
I so recommend this book
October 4, 2020
Depressing
First and foremost, it needs the loving touch of an editor. Missing words, extra words, misused homophones, and a ballroom that bounces between the 3rd and 4th floors. Secondly, it is deadly depressing. Mr. Bennet is unpleasant and unloving. Compromise sems rife and likely it was but it seems to me an educated woman like Elizabeth would have broached the topic of a breach of contact suit. Perhaps there would be many reasons not to follow through but I think it might have been mentioned. The farmers boy was a joy but also likely to spread gossip with an unchecked tongue. Why no concern about that?
First and foremost, it needs the loving touch of an editor. Missing words, extra words, misused homophones, and a ballroom that bounces between the 3rd and 4th floors. Secondly, it is deadly depressing. Mr. Bennet is unpleasant and unloving. Compromise sems rife and likely it was but it seems to me an educated woman like Elizabeth would have broached the topic of a breach of contact suit. Perhaps there would be many reasons not to follow through but I think it might have been mentioned. The farmers boy was a joy but also likely to spread gossip with an unchecked tongue. Why no concern about that?
August 7, 2021
I really do wish that Americans who write P&P, use British English and say they are writing in the British way would have British cold-readers go through the novel before publication.
Vest = waistcoat.
Block + miles.
And so on and so forth.
Luckily I have had a free trial of KU. I would not purchase the books due to glaring errors (spellings, extra words and punctuation). Shame as some of the author's stories have potential.
Vest = waistcoat.
Block + miles.
And so on and so forth.
Luckily I have had a free trial of KU. I would not purchase the books due to glaring errors (spellings, extra words and punctuation). Shame as some of the author's stories have potential.
September 9, 2020
Interesting and emotional
This story will pull at your heartstrings. Well written involving real issues in which still happen today. I loved how courageous and outgoing Georgiana is in this book. Loved how Darcy handled Lady Catherine. How Darcy and Elizabeth meet to when they got married is full of up and downs, but the how and why make the difference.
This story will pull at your heartstrings. Well written involving real issues in which still happen today. I loved how courageous and outgoing Georgiana is in this book. Loved how Darcy handled Lady Catherine. How Darcy and Elizabeth meet to when they got married is full of up and downs, but the how and why make the difference.
October 13, 2020
3.5
This variation had drama, an super-competent Elizabeth, and a very sweet, respectful, and enraptured Darcy, which is really my bread and butter for Pride and Prejudice variations. There was a little bit tooo much going on, which decreased my rating a bit, and the characters didn't really have any dimension, but that didn't bother me too much.
This variation had drama, an super-competent Elizabeth, and a very sweet, respectful, and enraptured Darcy, which is really my bread and butter for Pride and Prejudice variations. There was a little bit tooo much going on, which decreased my rating a bit, and the characters didn't really have any dimension, but that didn't bother me too much.
October 22, 2020
Good Story and Plot
This is my 5 th P&P variation by this author, and I have enjoyed them very much. He writes with straightforward style that doesn't mince words and presents raw realities in the characters he portrays. Editing is his downfall and was noticeable in the book, hence the 4 stars. Kept me engaged and a quick read.
This is my 5 th P&P variation by this author, and I have enjoyed them very much. He writes with straightforward style that doesn't mince words and presents raw realities in the characters he portrays. Editing is his downfall and was noticeable in the book, hence the 4 stars. Kept me engaged and a quick read.
December 23, 2021
No Goody Too Shoes Jane
There’s out of the norm actions from the canon Jane Bennet character which actually makes this story worth reading. I do bore of the sweet, dear Jane characterization that makes my eyes gloss over. Additionally, I’m a fan of variations that offer rare glimpses (prefer only references) of Mr and Mrs Bennet and Lydia.
There’s out of the norm actions from the canon Jane Bennet character which actually makes this story worth reading. I do bore of the sweet, dear Jane characterization that makes my eyes gloss over. Additionally, I’m a fan of variations that offer rare glimpses (prefer only references) of Mr and Mrs Bennet and Lydia.
September 28, 2020
Please edit!
This variation not only cries out for the simplest proofreading, it needs a thorough, professional editing. The entire thing seems piecemeal, and the final chapters are both unnecessary and boring.
This variation not only cries out for the simplest proofreading, it needs a thorough, professional editing. The entire thing seems piecemeal, and the final chapters are both unnecessary and boring.
September 30, 2020
It's an emotional story
I just enjoyed the progression of the story. I always disliked the Bennet parents. This version reinforced my feelings. Thank you for taking the story in a different direction.
I just enjoyed the progression of the story. I always disliked the Bennet parents. This version reinforced my feelings. Thank you for taking the story in a different direction.
October 5, 2020
Bittersweet
I enjoyed this novel but I do find it sad when one of my favorite characters finds an unhappy end in a P&P variation.
Besides that sadness, I found the rest of the story entertaining.
I enjoyed this novel but I do find it sad when one of my favorite characters finds an unhappy end in a P&P variation.
Besides that sadness, I found the rest of the story entertaining.
October 6, 2020
I loved it!
I love variation on tales.
This one was delightful and at times heartbreaking. While one character I always loved was not shown in a favorable light. It still was a great book.
I love variation on tales.
This one was delightful and at times heartbreaking. While one character I always loved was not shown in a favorable light. It still was a great book.
November 6, 2021
Love this story
With so many P&P sequels to read who has time to read them a second time? Well I’ve read this one twice because I enjoy it so much. I love Elizabeth’s competence and her joy in learning business and finance.
With so many P&P sequels to read who has time to read them a second time? Well I’ve read this one twice because I enjoy it so much. I love Elizabeth’s competence and her joy in learning business and finance.
August 13, 2022
Wonderful afternoon read
I have only one complaint : at the end where the lives are summed up the author left out young Henry from Kent. You will see what I mean after reading this.
I have only one complaint : at the end where the lives are summed up the author left out young Henry from Kent. You will see what I mean after reading this.
January 7, 2023
Interesting plot
The plot is unique and full of heart-rending scenarios. There are some minor editing issues, but nothing so bad or frequent as to inhibit understanding. Definitely worth a read!
The plot is unique and full of heart-rending scenarios. There are some minor editing issues, but nothing so bad or frequent as to inhibit understanding. Definitely worth a read!
June 8, 2023
Fine
Like several other JAFF authors, Hunnicutt might be better off writing story outlines for others to use as inspiration. His prose is matter of fact and his dialogue is flat. I finished the book just to see how it ended.
Like several other JAFF authors, Hunnicutt might be better off writing story outlines for others to use as inspiration. His prose is matter of fact and his dialogue is flat. I finished the book just to see how it ended.
September 17, 2020
Good
Good variation! I absolutely love the pride and prejudice variation world. This one was kida sad tho. I love the ones in which all the sisters from Longbourn get to happy.
Good variation! I absolutely love the pride and prejudice variation world. This one was kida sad tho. I love the ones in which all the sisters from Longbourn get to happy.
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