What do you think?
Rate this book
Dimensions of Darcy #4
Fitzwilliam Darcy's Wager
He has one shot at regaining Pemberley.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has worked tirelessly to earn back his family's estate. But the current master of Pemberley holds all the cards … and he knows his advantage.
She has one shot at finding love.
Elizabeth Bennet lays her happiness on the line when her freedom is threatened. Now, she has one month in London to fall in love her way, or she will have to marry to secure their home.
One toss of the dice will choose the winner.
With the help of Darcy's mother and sister, Elizabeth finds her place in society … and in Darcy's heart. Can a cautious man be convinced that love is a risk worth taking? The odds are stacked against him when Darcy faces an impossible choice: Pemberley or Elizabeth?
Fitzwilliam Darcy's Wager is a sweet and clean romantic suspense variation of Jane Austen's timeless classic, Pride and Prejudice. It's the fourth book in the Dimensions of Darcy series of standalone novels.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has worked tirelessly to earn back his family's estate. But the current master of Pemberley holds all the cards … and he knows his advantage.
She has one shot at finding love.
Elizabeth Bennet lays her happiness on the line when her freedom is threatened. Now, she has one month in London to fall in love her way, or she will have to marry to secure their home.
One toss of the dice will choose the winner.
With the help of Darcy's mother and sister, Elizabeth finds her place in society … and in Darcy's heart. Can a cautious man be convinced that love is a risk worth taking? The odds are stacked against him when Darcy faces an impossible choice: Pemberley or Elizabeth?
Fitzwilliam Darcy's Wager is a sweet and clean romantic suspense variation of Jane Austen's timeless classic, Pride and Prejudice. It's the fourth book in the Dimensions of Darcy series of standalone novels.
404 pages, ebook
Published November 3, 2020
137 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Joy
45 books208 followersWhen Jennifer isn’t busy dreaming up new adventures for her favorite characters, she is reading, baking, or chasing her twins around the park.
She believes in happy endings, sweet romance, and plenty of intrigue. She writes what she most enjoys reading, so expect lighthearted stories with happy endings and a few laughs.
Born on the beautiful Oregon coast, she traveled all around the world until she finally settled in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador with her husband and two kids.
She believes in happy endings, sweet romance, and plenty of intrigue. She writes what she most enjoys reading, so expect lighthearted stories with happy endings and a few laughs.
Born on the beautiful Oregon coast, she traveled all around the world until she finally settled in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador with her husband and two kids.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
November 17, 2020
“A true Englishman doesn’t joke when he is talking about so serious a thing as a wager.” –Jules Verne, Around the World in Eighty Days
Rating: clean; angst level: medium; 36-chapters + an epilogue
“Walking on a path of uncertainties,
Shuffling on the probabilities of uncertainties,
Waging on the possibilities of uncertainties,
Waiting for the occurrences of uncertainties,
Solving the mysteries of wandering uncertainties,
We move, lead, and live.”
–Pushpa Rana, Just the Way I Feel
The above quote best described the feelings Darcy felt for nearly the entire story. This required careful reading due to the smoke and mirrors that hid a lot of the drama. I lost my way a few times trying to keep up with just who was doing what. OMG! This was so exciting and frustrating as heck as we watched Darcy crash and burn on so many levels. I wanted to shake him, and Elizabeth too, as they circled each other. They were so cute. It was amazing how our author moved the chess pieces on this storyboard. I enjoyed watching the strategies, maneuvers, and the manipulation of characters unfold as their vices, and weaknesses were exposed. Joy simply amazed me with her astute vision for this variation.
We begin on the worst and best day in the life of a very young Fitzwilliam Darcy. At eleven years of age… nearly twelve… several things happened that changed the course of his life. Lady Anne was still alive and she was a big influence in his life. The reader needed to watch carefully as the pieces to a very large puzzle started to fall into place. As the story continued… there wasn’t a true picture of what was going on or how it would eventually end. Joy introduced a new villain to our P&P cast that was simply horrid. He absolutely made my skin crawl. I was constantly on pins and needles trying to figure out how this could possibly work out. I was nearly biting my nails following the drama as it unfolded. The sneaky way the reader was given information was excruciatingly slow and painful. It was brilliant.
11-15-20 I won a copy via a random drawing during a blog stop at Rita’s ‘From Pemberley to Milton.’ There were no stipulations or requirements of a review as part of the giveaway. I volunteered to leave my thoughts and opinions. I highly recommend this delightful story.
Rating: clean; angst level: medium; 36-chapters + an epilogue
“Walking on a path of uncertainties,
Shuffling on the probabilities of uncertainties,
Waging on the possibilities of uncertainties,
Waiting for the occurrences of uncertainties,
Solving the mysteries of wandering uncertainties,
We move, lead, and live.”
–Pushpa Rana, Just the Way I Feel
The above quote best described the feelings Darcy felt for nearly the entire story. This required careful reading due to the smoke and mirrors that hid a lot of the drama. I lost my way a few times trying to keep up with just who was doing what. OMG! This was so exciting and frustrating as heck as we watched Darcy crash and burn on so many levels. I wanted to shake him, and Elizabeth too, as they circled each other. They were so cute. It was amazing how our author moved the chess pieces on this storyboard. I enjoyed watching the strategies, maneuvers, and the manipulation of characters unfold as their vices, and weaknesses were exposed. Joy simply amazed me with her astute vision for this variation.
We begin on the worst and best day in the life of a very young Fitzwilliam Darcy. At eleven years of age… nearly twelve… several things happened that changed the course of his life. Lady Anne was still alive and she was a big influence in his life. The reader needed to watch carefully as the pieces to a very large puzzle started to fall into place. As the story continued… there wasn’t a true picture of what was going on or how it would eventually end. Joy introduced a new villain to our P&P cast that was simply horrid. He absolutely made my skin crawl. I was constantly on pins and needles trying to figure out how this could possibly work out. I was nearly biting my nails following the drama as it unfolded. The sneaky way the reader was given information was excruciatingly slow and painful. It was brilliant.
11-15-20 I won a copy via a random drawing during a blog stop at Rita’s ‘From Pemberley to Milton.’ There were no stipulations or requirements of a review as part of the giveaway. I volunteered to leave my thoughts and opinions. I highly recommend this delightful story.
November 8, 2020
Sometimes what gets to you most isn't the large holes that get ripped from your heart but the fraying of its edges — when what held you together isn't anymore. ~ Terri Guillemets
“Fitzwilliam Darcy’s Wager” begins on a heartbreaking note: his father has bet beloved Pemberley on a roll of the dice; his father has bet beloved Pemberley and lost.
As a 12-year-old, Fitzwilliam isn’t told of his family’s fate until the morning of the move away from his home. In his shock, he remembers the Chinese vase his uncle brought from one of his journeys. He attempts to sell the vase, believing as his uncle said, that its value was beyond price. He must learn the truth: the vase is not as valuable as the Pemberley estate. The vase remains in the family, taking a place of honor in their London home but is a constant reminder to Fitzwilliam of the enormous loss. He will devote his life to buying Pemberley and returning his family to their home.
Giving up doesn't always mean you are weak; sometimes it means that you are strong enough to let go. ~ Author Unknown
The usual villains get a mention and small parts in this story but the real villain of the piece is Mr. Basil Packer, gambler. What is his motivation to acquire (and keep) Pemberley? Why does he allow his daughter to be in George Wickham’s company? How far will he go to punish the one he believes has hurt him?
Some circumstances are a bit hard to believe: that Darcy as a teen and young man can make enough prudent investments to acquire the cash needed to redeem Pemberley; that Darcy would be quite so careless with his checking accounts; and that Elizabeth Bennet would make such a rash promise as she did to get permission for a season in London. It might be necessary to suspend some disbelief but the end result is worth it.
I have read “Darcy is poor” stories before and this one will rank with the best in my memory.
God is closest to those with broken hearts. ~ Jewish Saying
“Fitzwilliam Darcy’s Wager” begins on a heartbreaking note: his father has bet beloved Pemberley on a roll of the dice; his father has bet beloved Pemberley and lost.
As a 12-year-old, Fitzwilliam isn’t told of his family’s fate until the morning of the move away from his home. In his shock, he remembers the Chinese vase his uncle brought from one of his journeys. He attempts to sell the vase, believing as his uncle said, that its value was beyond price. He must learn the truth: the vase is not as valuable as the Pemberley estate. The vase remains in the family, taking a place of honor in their London home but is a constant reminder to Fitzwilliam of the enormous loss. He will devote his life to buying Pemberley and returning his family to their home.
Giving up doesn't always mean you are weak; sometimes it means that you are strong enough to let go. ~ Author Unknown
The usual villains get a mention and small parts in this story but the real villain of the piece is Mr. Basil Packer, gambler. What is his motivation to acquire (and keep) Pemberley? Why does he allow his daughter to be in George Wickham’s company? How far will he go to punish the one he believes has hurt him?
Some circumstances are a bit hard to believe: that Darcy as a teen and young man can make enough prudent investments to acquire the cash needed to redeem Pemberley; that Darcy would be quite so careless with his checking accounts; and that Elizabeth Bennet would make such a rash promise as she did to get permission for a season in London. It might be necessary to suspend some disbelief but the end result is worth it.
I have read “Darcy is poor” stories before and this one will rank with the best in my memory.
God is closest to those with broken hearts. ~ Jewish Saying
November 24, 2020
This Pride and Prejudice variation was unlike any other. Darcy senior looses Pemberley while gambling and this has a profound impact on Fitzwilliam. His mother and sister are his whole world, and so is earning and saving enough money to buy back his estate. As he meets and falls in love with Elizabeth Bennet he must be strong and determine what is really important to him.
As always the emotion this author brings to the written word amazes me. I loved this book.
As always the emotion this author brings to the written word amazes me. I loved this book.
March 30, 2021
Right from the beginning, this story pulls you in and doesn't let go. It was very frustrating when I had to put the book down! This 'what if' certainly was a surprise...a heartbreaking one. The Darcy's lost Pemberley! The only bright spot on the day young Fitzwilliam learns of this, is his chance meeting with Mr. Gardiner and his two young nieces. Who knew one young lively child would put a smile on his face. One he would teach a game to, and one who was rewarded with a beautiful green ribbon for winning that game.
"Only, everything had a price, did it not? Even things which should not be sold - or lost - had a price."
Flash forward fifteen years later, Netherfield Hall has let at last. But things take a different path at the assembly. More than just Mr. Bingley, Miss Bingley, the Hurst's and Mr. Darcy are present. Will Mr. Darcy remember the Bennet sisters? And in this variation, Lady Anne is still alive and what a 'Lady' she is! I loved her.
"I have no room in my heart for anything other than Pemberley. Until it is ours again, I cannot rightly marry. The woman I choose for my wife deserves my whole heart, not one divided and incomplete." (quote from the book)
Darcy is a man on a mission these past fifteen years. I so enjoyed his continued relationship with the Gardiners. He has focused all his attentions on regaining Pemberley from the man who owns it. But this man is a master puppeteer pulling Darcy's strings and anyone else he can manipulate and control...Mr. Packer. He is a vile and insidious human being and his comeuppance was well deserved. Yes, we have the snake, Mr. Wickham, but his role pales in comparison to Mr. Packer, and the pesky fly, Miss Bingley, is swatted.
"There are few people I genuinely dislike; even few I despise. But I would rather caress a viper than allow that man any influence over me and my household." (quote from the book)
As for Elizabeth, she is intent on going to London to have a season with Jane. But with Mr. Bingley's arrival and Mr. Collins coming to extend an olive branch, that season only turns into a one month visit with the Gardiners for Elizabeth to find a husband! Will it be enough time? And will her friendship with the Darcy's help her find what she is looking for?
"For now that she was in town, her search for love must begin - who better than Mr. Darcy to help her recognize opportunity and perceive risks?" (quote from the book)
The stakes are high...will it be win, lose or draw?
Again, Ms. Joy has written an emotional story that pulls at our heartstrings along with Darcy and Elizabeth's. I highly recommend it!
"Only, everything had a price, did it not? Even things which should not be sold - or lost - had a price."
Flash forward fifteen years later, Netherfield Hall has let at last. But things take a different path at the assembly. More than just Mr. Bingley, Miss Bingley, the Hurst's and Mr. Darcy are present. Will Mr. Darcy remember the Bennet sisters? And in this variation, Lady Anne is still alive and what a 'Lady' she is! I loved her.
"I have no room in my heart for anything other than Pemberley. Until it is ours again, I cannot rightly marry. The woman I choose for my wife deserves my whole heart, not one divided and incomplete." (quote from the book)
Darcy is a man on a mission these past fifteen years. I so enjoyed his continued relationship with the Gardiners. He has focused all his attentions on regaining Pemberley from the man who owns it. But this man is a master puppeteer pulling Darcy's strings and anyone else he can manipulate and control...Mr. Packer. He is a vile and insidious human being and his comeuppance was well deserved. Yes, we have the snake, Mr. Wickham, but his role pales in comparison to Mr. Packer, and the pesky fly, Miss Bingley, is swatted.
"There are few people I genuinely dislike; even few I despise. But I would rather caress a viper than allow that man any influence over me and my household." (quote from the book)
As for Elizabeth, she is intent on going to London to have a season with Jane. But with Mr. Bingley's arrival and Mr. Collins coming to extend an olive branch, that season only turns into a one month visit with the Gardiners for Elizabeth to find a husband! Will it be enough time? And will her friendship with the Darcy's help her find what she is looking for?
"For now that she was in town, her search for love must begin - who better than Mr. Darcy to help her recognize opportunity and perceive risks?" (quote from the book)
The stakes are high...will it be win, lose or draw?
Again, Ms. Joy has written an emotional story that pulls at our heartstrings along with Darcy and Elizabeth's. I highly recommend it!
July 22, 2021
Published at: https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Fitzwilliam Darcy’s Wager is the 4th book in the Dimensions of Darcy series, which is becoming one of my favorite series in the genre. It develops several different traits that shape Darcy’s character in a new manner, and in this particular book, Jennifer Joy decided to alter Darcy’s circumstances completely.
Mr. Darcy senior loses Pemberley in a bet against a man he believed to be his friend, and because of that, Darcy is destitute of his estate. He keeps his position in society and part of his wealth, but he no longer possesses Pemberley, which becomes his obsession. Fitzwilliam Darcy’s life is spent working to regain hold of Pemberley and that is not only his sole purpose, but also the only thing he can think of… until he meets Elizabeth Bennet.
I absolutely loved this book and devoured it in two days, but why did I love it? Well, there are many aspects I loved in it, namely:
The John Thornton element: In this book Fitzwilliam Darcy’s circumstances resemble a lot John Thornton’s situation in North and South and I absolutely loved this because apart from all his usual characteristics, this Darcy had to work hard to obtain what he wanted. He had a sister and a mother to take care of, and from an early age had to rise up to the unfortunate situation he found himself in. Nothing was given to him on a silver platter, and that made him a more worthy man in my perspective.
The family: Mr. Darcy senior dies a few years after losing Pemberley and his attitude as well as his growing bitterness after losing his property affected Fitzwilliam Darcy’s personally. He aimed to be everything his father was not, and struggled to reconcile the image he had of his father when he was young man, with the man he became in the last years of his life. It was not easy for him to understand and forgive his father and I found the journey he took to that point endearing and heart whelming.
Also, Lady Anne is still alive and she is not a meekly, sweet creature as we often see portrayed. She is a smart, caring but strong character who is not afraid to stand for what she believes and act when necessary. I loved her character, and would love to read a sequel of this book so I could spend more time with her.
Elizabeth’s wit: Elizabeth’s wit is not described, it is shown through her dialogues! When we read too many austenesque novels, we tend to see Elizabeth described as witty more often than not, and that may become a bit repetitive and tiresome, so I love it when an author is capable of showing that Elizabeth is witty without the need to say it. Elizabeth was wonderful rebuffing the villains verbal attacks and I was extremely proud of her.
The sweet romance: Instead of having misunderstandings between our couple, or having them have misapprehensions about their characters etc., Jennifer Joy decided to explore their interest for one another early in the book and allowed the characters to slowly build a sweet and romantic relationship. I usually like angsty books, but this sweet romance was absolutely perfect and I didn’t miss the angst one bit. It was truly romantic and I enjoyed every single moment between Darcy and Elizabeth.
Fitzwilliam Darcy’s Wager is a low angst romance with interesting and strong characters that will captivate most readers. It is perfect for readers who like to see our dear couple fall in love early in the story and its pace and writing style are extremely captivating. I highly recommend it.
Fitzwilliam Darcy’s Wager is the 4th book in the Dimensions of Darcy series, which is becoming one of my favorite series in the genre. It develops several different traits that shape Darcy’s character in a new manner, and in this particular book, Jennifer Joy decided to alter Darcy’s circumstances completely.
Mr. Darcy senior loses Pemberley in a bet against a man he believed to be his friend, and because of that, Darcy is destitute of his estate. He keeps his position in society and part of his wealth, but he no longer possesses Pemberley, which becomes his obsession. Fitzwilliam Darcy’s life is spent working to regain hold of Pemberley and that is not only his sole purpose, but also the only thing he can think of… until he meets Elizabeth Bennet.
I absolutely loved this book and devoured it in two days, but why did I love it? Well, there are many aspects I loved in it, namely:
The John Thornton element: In this book Fitzwilliam Darcy’s circumstances resemble a lot John Thornton’s situation in North and South and I absolutely loved this because apart from all his usual characteristics, this Darcy had to work hard to obtain what he wanted. He had a sister and a mother to take care of, and from an early age had to rise up to the unfortunate situation he found himself in. Nothing was given to him on a silver platter, and that made him a more worthy man in my perspective.
The family: Mr. Darcy senior dies a few years after losing Pemberley and his attitude as well as his growing bitterness after losing his property affected Fitzwilliam Darcy’s personally. He aimed to be everything his father was not, and struggled to reconcile the image he had of his father when he was young man, with the man he became in the last years of his life. It was not easy for him to understand and forgive his father and I found the journey he took to that point endearing and heart whelming.
Also, Lady Anne is still alive and she is not a meekly, sweet creature as we often see portrayed. She is a smart, caring but strong character who is not afraid to stand for what she believes and act when necessary. I loved her character, and would love to read a sequel of this book so I could spend more time with her.
Elizabeth’s wit: Elizabeth’s wit is not described, it is shown through her dialogues! When we read too many austenesque novels, we tend to see Elizabeth described as witty more often than not, and that may become a bit repetitive and tiresome, so I love it when an author is capable of showing that Elizabeth is witty without the need to say it. Elizabeth was wonderful rebuffing the villains verbal attacks and I was extremely proud of her.
The sweet romance: Instead of having misunderstandings between our couple, or having them have misapprehensions about their characters etc., Jennifer Joy decided to explore their interest for one another early in the book and allowed the characters to slowly build a sweet and romantic relationship. I usually like angsty books, but this sweet romance was absolutely perfect and I didn’t miss the angst one bit. It was truly romantic and I enjoyed every single moment between Darcy and Elizabeth.
Fitzwilliam Darcy’s Wager is a low angst romance with interesting and strong characters that will captivate most readers. It is perfect for readers who like to see our dear couple fall in love early in the story and its pace and writing style are extremely captivating. I highly recommend it.
November 8, 2020
Truly Wonderful
Another great story by Jennifer Joy. I think this has to be my favorite of hers so far. The beginning is a little bit heartbreaking and a lot endearing, as Elizabeth and Darcy meet when she is just four years old—and the same day George Darcy takes his family to London after losing Pemberley. They meet again years later at the assembly in Meryton, and the tale follows Darcy’s efforts to regain Pemberley from the hands of a villainous cheat. In the meantime, Elizabeth is determined to find someone she can marry for love before Mrs. Bennet can sacrifice her to Mr. Collins. Lady Anne plays a large role.
I loved it all. There are some very touching moments that will tug at your heartstrings in this well-written book. Highly recommend.
Another great story by Jennifer Joy. I think this has to be my favorite of hers so far. The beginning is a little bit heartbreaking and a lot endearing, as Elizabeth and Darcy meet when she is just four years old—and the same day George Darcy takes his family to London after losing Pemberley. They meet again years later at the assembly in Meryton, and the tale follows Darcy’s efforts to regain Pemberley from the hands of a villainous cheat. In the meantime, Elizabeth is determined to find someone she can marry for love before Mrs. Bennet can sacrifice her to Mr. Collins. Lady Anne plays a large role.
I loved it all. There are some very touching moments that will tug at your heartstrings in this well-written book. Highly recommend.
November 18, 2024
What an incredible and beautiful story!
I loved everything! From their meeting at a very young age to all the things they go through. Lady Anne is quite the character and Georgiana is lovely. A book that I will read again!
I loved everything! From their meeting at a very young age to all the things they go through. Lady Anne is quite the character and Georgiana is lovely. A book that I will read again!
December 13, 2020
Like a fine wine, this author, Jennifer Joy, gets better with age. I loved this story. I now rejoined KU as it is on sale for $.99 per month for two months after which regular prices kick back in. This was the first story I downloaded. I knew I would like it and I have to add it is an excellent story. While not reflecting the canon of P&P it does have the characters we are familiar with along with a new villain, Basil Packer, and his daughter.
Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy meet the day his family must leave Pemberley due to Fitzwilliam's father, George, having gambled and lost the estate on the roll of dice. Darcy the younger remembers a Chinese vase being describes as extremely valuable and so he, at the age of 12, takes the vase into Lambton to sell and redeem Pemberley. Elizabeth is there visiting with her aunt and part of the interaction is ODB teaching her how to play "Rock-cloth-scissors" and her winning a green ribbon (which she then treasures over the next decade or so). The vase turns out not to be so valuable but the meanings of the figures on it were learned in that the red fish upon it depicts happiness and Elizabeth comes to remember it and connect it with her desire for love in marriage.
Darcy meets Elizabeth again at the Meryton Assembly and they remember their first meeting. (He had called her "Lively Lizzy" back then.) His father is dead, having become a vastly different father after the loss of their estate. Darcy the younger has also now become obsessed with one goal in life. Having met Mr. Gardiner the day he tried to redeem the vase, he has become friends and business associates in building a savings over the years with which he means to buy back Pemberley. This Elizabeth is a bit different in character in that she is determined to go to London to participate in The Season, knowing Hertfordshire has no men who interest her. However now Collins has been in touch with her father and Mama is planning to throw Elizabeth his way to avoid "the hedgerows". So it is that Elizabeth persuades her father to allow her to travel to London for a month, even if the Season has not yet begun. She is offered a ride with the Darcys who had always planned to only stay with Bingley for several days. (Yes, Georgiana is with him.)
While Elizabeth and Darcy decide that they will be friends, others see more in their relationship. Anne Darcy along with Aunt and Uncle Gardiner think they are perfect for each other. So this story gives us matchmaking and ODC developing feelings but both also determining that it cannot be. He must get Pemberley back and she has only a month to find love so as to avoid marrying Collins.
We have a mystery just how George Darcy fell into the trap of losing Pemberley - clues are few and sketchy. We have Wickham hanging around and seeming to be on the verge of winning the estate by marrying the owner's daughter. And we have ongoing negotiations between Darcy and Packer, with Packer dangling a carrot and then pulling it back. Packer's purpose is interesting.
I have to say that I did not figure out all of what was going on until the end. Yes, there was angst and I had to trust there would be a happy ending for ODC but at what cost? Was Darcy going to give up Pemberley in order to have Elizabeth? And then he is hit with a second whammy part way through the story.
This long story (almost 400 pages) kept my attention and I highly recommend it to lovers of JAFF.
Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy meet the day his family must leave Pemberley due to Fitzwilliam's father, George, having gambled and lost the estate on the roll of dice. Darcy the younger remembers a Chinese vase being describes as extremely valuable and so he, at the age of 12, takes the vase into Lambton to sell and redeem Pemberley. Elizabeth is there visiting with her aunt and part of the interaction is ODB teaching her how to play "Rock-cloth-scissors" and her winning a green ribbon (which she then treasures over the next decade or so). The vase turns out not to be so valuable but the meanings of the figures on it were learned in that the red fish upon it depicts happiness and Elizabeth comes to remember it and connect it with her desire for love in marriage.
Darcy meets Elizabeth again at the Meryton Assembly and they remember their first meeting. (He had called her "Lively Lizzy" back then.) His father is dead, having become a vastly different father after the loss of their estate. Darcy the younger has also now become obsessed with one goal in life. Having met Mr. Gardiner the day he tried to redeem the vase, he has become friends and business associates in building a savings over the years with which he means to buy back Pemberley. This Elizabeth is a bit different in character in that she is determined to go to London to participate in The Season, knowing Hertfordshire has no men who interest her. However now Collins has been in touch with her father and Mama is planning to throw Elizabeth his way to avoid "the hedgerows". So it is that Elizabeth persuades her father to allow her to travel to London for a month, even if the Season has not yet begun. She is offered a ride with the Darcys who had always planned to only stay with Bingley for several days. (Yes, Georgiana is with him.)
While Elizabeth and Darcy decide that they will be friends, others see more in their relationship. Anne Darcy along with Aunt and Uncle Gardiner think they are perfect for each other. So this story gives us matchmaking and ODC developing feelings but both also determining that it cannot be. He must get Pemberley back and she has only a month to find love so as to avoid marrying Collins.
We have a mystery just how George Darcy fell into the trap of losing Pemberley - clues are few and sketchy. We have Wickham hanging around and seeming to be on the verge of winning the estate by marrying the owner's daughter. And we have ongoing negotiations between Darcy and Packer, with Packer dangling a carrot and then pulling it back. Packer's purpose is interesting.
I have to say that I did not figure out all of what was going on until the end. Yes, there was angst and I had to trust there would be a happy ending for ODC but at what cost? Was Darcy going to give up Pemberley in order to have Elizabeth? And then he is hit with a second whammy part way through the story.
This long story (almost 400 pages) kept my attention and I highly recommend it to lovers of JAFF.
December 6, 2020
A wonderful story. Father Darcy has lost Pemberley on a bet. Young master Darcy is devastated about having to leave his home. When settled in London with his mother and Georgiana, Darcy is doing all he can do to raise the money to purchase Pemberley back. Elizabeth flees to London for one month to find love and to marry before having to return to Longbourn to marry Mr. Collins. Elizabeth is a wonderful, witty woman that has befriended Georgiana and his mother. Lady Anne and the Gardiner’s sees that Elizabeth would be perfect for Fitzwilliam. Fitzwilliam is too busy trying to get Pemberley back. Will Elizabeth find love and marriage? Will she have to marry Mr. Collins? Will Fitzwilliam be able to purchase Pemberley? Will Pemberley give him happiness?
November 19, 2020
well written good story enjoyed this one very much
Jennifer Joy is a reliable author for a good read IMO
Jennifer Joy is a reliable author for a good read IMO
November 9, 2020
Charming with everything as it should be.
December 27, 2020
This author is good
Have read many of her books in the last two weeks and have picked the good ones thus far or are they all good? Another story that does deviate from the original in a wonderful way. We get to meet and luv Darcy’s mother. There is angst but alas a satisfying ending.
Have read many of her books in the last two weeks and have picked the good ones thus far or are they all good? Another story that does deviate from the original in a wonderful way. We get to meet and luv Darcy’s mother. There is angst but alas a satisfying ending.
December 13, 2020
Wonderful
Darcy's father has lost Pemberly in a gamble when Darcy is only eleven years old. His world crumbles around him, and he resolves to work hard to recover the family estate, and it becomes an obsession for him. Darcy meets Elizabeth in Lambton right after this disaster has struck, when Elizabeth is only 3 or 4 years old, and again 15 years later, when he is finally close to having what he needs to buy back his home. However, the evil man responsible for Pemberly's loss is going to make it as difficult as possible for Darcy to get what he wants.
This is a rather dark and oppressive tale, as Darcy seems perpetually solemn and driven by demons. Fortunately, there are some charming little twists in the early relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy, such as the rock, cloth, and scissors game, and the story behind the vase that he brings to the Lambton shop. These kinds of little details lighten things up just enough to endure the large amount of depressing content. Since Elizabeth and Darcy meet when they are young, and since Darcy is brought low by losing his ancestral home, we don't have to go through all of the usual price and arrogance of the original P&P.
I deducted a star because of Elizabeth's insistence on having a season in London, and determining to find a husband in that limited amount of time. That just wasn't like something Elizabeth would do, especially since Jane was well on her way to securing Bingley. I couldn't figure out why there was this deadline for her to marry. The whole premise just didn't feel right.
Jennifer Joy is a lovely writer and a talented storyteller. This book is well written and well edited. I recommend it.
Darcy's father has lost Pemberly in a gamble when Darcy is only eleven years old. His world crumbles around him, and he resolves to work hard to recover the family estate, and it becomes an obsession for him. Darcy meets Elizabeth in Lambton right after this disaster has struck, when Elizabeth is only 3 or 4 years old, and again 15 years later, when he is finally close to having what he needs to buy back his home. However, the evil man responsible for Pemberly's loss is going to make it as difficult as possible for Darcy to get what he wants.
This is a rather dark and oppressive tale, as Darcy seems perpetually solemn and driven by demons. Fortunately, there are some charming little twists in the early relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy, such as the rock, cloth, and scissors game, and the story behind the vase that he brings to the Lambton shop. These kinds of little details lighten things up just enough to endure the large amount of depressing content. Since Elizabeth and Darcy meet when they are young, and since Darcy is brought low by losing his ancestral home, we don't have to go through all of the usual price and arrogance of the original P&P.
I deducted a star because of Elizabeth's insistence on having a season in London, and determining to find a husband in that limited amount of time. That just wasn't like something Elizabeth would do, especially since Jane was well on her way to securing Bingley. I couldn't figure out why there was this deadline for her to marry. The whole premise just didn't feel right.
Jennifer Joy is a lovely writer and a talented storyteller. This book is well written and well edited. I recommend it.
Read
November 14, 2025Part of me hates when Austen variations change up the past but part of me delights in having such a different type of story. I adore that Darcy and Elizabeth paths crossed in their early years in such a way that they both recall the event in such clarity years later. I despise what caused their paths to cross at all though. I always think of Darcy's parents as being wonderful people. After all, we've heard from the housekeeper about his family. In this case, I hated hearing that his father could do something so horrible as lose Pemberly in a bet. So the beginning was indeed difficult for me to comes to terms with. But I loved having Darcy's mother in the story. She is a lovely person yet she also has a scheming mind that was fun to watch put into action. And it turns out she has a little vindictive heart in her as well. It was very satisfying. I do enjoy when villains do not get away with their evil.
Despite the romance being in such a brief time period, it did not feel rushed. That may in part be due to their holding the first meeting in their hearts for so long before seeing each other again. I was glad that Darcy learned that people are more important than things and I loved seeing Georgianna grow under Elizabeth's tutelage. We didn't get to see much of Jane and Bingley's romance but I liked having it in the background anyway.
It was an enjoyable read.
No sex, language or violence
Despite the romance being in such a brief time period, it did not feel rushed. That may in part be due to their holding the first meeting in their hearts for so long before seeing each other again. I was glad that Darcy learned that people are more important than things and I loved seeing Georgianna grow under Elizabeth's tutelage. We didn't get to see much of Jane and Bingley's romance but I liked having it in the background anyway.
It was an enjoyable read.
No sex, language or violence
September 28, 2021
Avid Reader
This was an interesting book on Darcy and Elizabeth 's first meeting as children and their reunion as adults. Their first meeting happens when Mr.and Mrs. Gardiner meet for the first time as well. Basil Packer hurt Darcy 's father because he married Anne Fitzwilliam.He got his revenge through a wager and loaded dice, in essence cheating! With Gardenier 's help, Darcy amasses 150,000 pounds, which Packer manages to steal from him with Wickham 's assistance and someone who betrayed Darcy. Darcy 's mother plays Packer at his own game and wins because of his pride winning Pemberly back for her son, but it's Darcy who finally gets the legal means to have Packer and Wickham transported to Australia for forgery. Darcy and Elizabeth marry he finally realized Elizabeth was more important than Pemberly, but he didn't know that his mother had secured Pemberly.
This was an interesting book on Darcy and Elizabeth 's first meeting as children and their reunion as adults. Their first meeting happens when Mr.and Mrs. Gardiner meet for the first time as well. Basil Packer hurt Darcy 's father because he married Anne Fitzwilliam.He got his revenge through a wager and loaded dice, in essence cheating! With Gardenier 's help, Darcy amasses 150,000 pounds, which Packer manages to steal from him with Wickham 's assistance and someone who betrayed Darcy. Darcy 's mother plays Packer at his own game and wins because of his pride winning Pemberly back for her son, but it's Darcy who finally gets the legal means to have Packer and Wickham transported to Australia for forgery. Darcy and Elizabeth marry he finally realized Elizabeth was more important than Pemberly, but he didn't know that his mother had secured Pemberly.
December 23, 2020
4.5 magical little stars.
This was so good! The whole ribbon plot just stole my heart right from the start <3 The only reason it didn't get 5 stars is because a few times some of what was going on/being said confused me such that I was drawn out of the story.
This was so good! The whole ribbon plot just stole my heart right from the start <3 The only reason it didn't get 5 stars is because a few times some of what was going on/being said confused me such that I was drawn out of the story.
January 26, 2021
Simple and sweet
This was a really sweet book. I really enjoy that there was no fatal flaw or error in any of the main characters.
This was a really sweet book. I really enjoy that there was no fatal flaw or error in any of the main characters.
December 8, 2020
Enchanting
I so enjoyed getting caught up in these characters and feeling with them their trials, struggles, joys, discoveries, victories, and accomplishments! Feeling them understand the struggles and strengths of their family members, and seeing how they dealt with adversity and opposition.
Wonderful book that had me thinking about it between opportunities to read.
I so enjoyed getting caught up in these characters and feeling with them their trials, struggles, joys, discoveries, victories, and accomplishments! Feeling them understand the struggles and strengths of their family members, and seeing how they dealt with adversity and opposition.
Wonderful book that had me thinking about it between opportunities to read.
April 8, 2021
I started reading this book last year, and for whatever reason could not get into it at the time. I almost decided not to read it this time around, because I had given up on it then, and couldn't recall why, but I decided I wasn't being fair. I know that I am a particularly moody reader.
This was so good, though! I even think I understand now what put me off last year. If I was very stressed, the idea of the Darcys losing Pemberley when Fitzwilliam was a boy was likely too tragic for me to face. That would be a story I'd have trouble facing in the middle of my own concerns.
That's how this P&P variation begins, with young Fitzwilliam Darcy thoroughly gutted by the fact that his father has gambled away his beloved Pemberley. Certain his father has forgotten about the priceless, as he believes, vase gifted to them by his uncle, he takes the Chinese vase from his father's study, while everyone in the house is involved in packing their belongings to leave. He carries it to town, to the merchant, Mr. Selkirk, and there while he is waiting to speak to the man, he meets two children, girls named Jane and Elizabeth Bennet, who are there with their bachelor uncle, Edward Gardiner.
Even in the midst of his heartbreak, Fitzwilliam can't help but be charmed by the younger girl, Elizabeth, who can't be more than four years old but already has an impressive vocabulary. He teaches her a game, Rock, Scissors, Cloth, and she wins on her first try. So he gifts her with a prize, a length of ribbon in her favorite shade of green. Then he speaks to Mr. Selkirk and Mr. Gardiner about the possible value of his vase, and whether he can sell it to save Pemberley. Gardiner promises to look into it for him. Unknown to the reader at the time, this is the day Gardiner first meets his future bride, the Miss Selkirk who is entertaining his nieces while he does business with her father.
The story picks up years later, when Darcy is grown, his father now dead, and he has finally made enough money, with the help of his friend Gardiner, to buy back Pemberley. But when he goes to Mr. Packer to make his offer, he is put off. While he awaits a counteroffer from Packer, he decides to take his mother, Lady Anne, and his sister, Georgiana, to Hertfordshire, to attend a dance at the invitation of Charles Bingley.
This story is not just a romantic Pride and Prejudice variation that diverges quite a lot from the original story, it's also something of a mystery. It's incredibly romantic, and a pleasure to read. Highly recommended.
This was so good, though! I even think I understand now what put me off last year. If I was very stressed, the idea of the Darcys losing Pemberley when Fitzwilliam was a boy was likely too tragic for me to face. That would be a story I'd have trouble facing in the middle of my own concerns.
That's how this P&P variation begins, with young Fitzwilliam Darcy thoroughly gutted by the fact that his father has gambled away his beloved Pemberley. Certain his father has forgotten about the priceless, as he believes, vase gifted to them by his uncle, he takes the Chinese vase from his father's study, while everyone in the house is involved in packing their belongings to leave. He carries it to town, to the merchant, Mr. Selkirk, and there while he is waiting to speak to the man, he meets two children, girls named Jane and Elizabeth Bennet, who are there with their bachelor uncle, Edward Gardiner.
Even in the midst of his heartbreak, Fitzwilliam can't help but be charmed by the younger girl, Elizabeth, who can't be more than four years old but already has an impressive vocabulary. He teaches her a game, Rock, Scissors, Cloth, and she wins on her first try. So he gifts her with a prize, a length of ribbon in her favorite shade of green. Then he speaks to Mr. Selkirk and Mr. Gardiner about the possible value of his vase, and whether he can sell it to save Pemberley. Gardiner promises to look into it for him. Unknown to the reader at the time, this is the day Gardiner first meets his future bride, the Miss Selkirk who is entertaining his nieces while he does business with her father.
The story picks up years later, when Darcy is grown, his father now dead, and he has finally made enough money, with the help of his friend Gardiner, to buy back Pemberley. But when he goes to Mr. Packer to make his offer, he is put off. While he awaits a counteroffer from Packer, he decides to take his mother, Lady Anne, and his sister, Georgiana, to Hertfordshire, to attend a dance at the invitation of Charles Bingley.
This story is not just a romantic Pride and Prejudice variation that diverges quite a lot from the original story, it's also something of a mystery. It's incredibly romantic, and a pleasure to read. Highly recommended.
March 14, 2022
Darcy the Son
What an interesting turn seeing Darcy as a son to both parents! His humility shows a different dimension to his otherwise take-full-charge character. Yet he remained accessible to his outer circle. Accepting this attitude depends on knowing him from reading the original story. The financial HEA was quite the stretch.
What an interesting turn seeing Darcy as a son to both parents! His humility shows a different dimension to his otherwise take-full-charge character. Yet he remained accessible to his outer circle. Accepting this attitude depends on knowing him from reading the original story. The financial HEA was quite the stretch.
February 13, 2024
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see most beloved characters in a whole new way. I enjoyed seeing the plot unfold with familiar characters in somewhat different roles. Right from the beginning, this story pulls you in and doesn't let go. This 'what if' certainly was a surprise, a heartbreaking one. The Darcy's lost Pemberley! The only bright spot on the day young Fitzwilliam learns of this, is his chance meeting with Mr. Gardiner and his two young nieces. Who knew one young lively child would put a smile on his face. One he would teach a game to, and one who was rewarded with a beautiful green ribbon for winning that game. Flash forward fifteen years later, Netherfield Hall has let at last. But things take a different path at the assembly. More than just Mr. Bingley, Miss Bingley, the Hurst's and Mr. Darcy are present. Will Mr. Darcy remember the Bennet sisters? And in this variation, Lady Anne is still alive and what a 'Lady' she is! I loved her. Darcy is a man on a mission these past fifteen years. I so enjoyed his continued relationship with the Gardiners. He has focused all his attentions on regaining Pemberley from the man who owns it. But this man is a master puppeteer pulling Darcy's strings and anyone else he can manipulate and control, Mr. Packer. He is a vile and insidious human being and his comeuppance was well deserved. Yes, we have the snake, Mr. Wickham, but his role pales in comparison to Mr. Packer, and the pesky fly, Miss Bingley, is swatted. As for Elizabeth, she is intent on going to London to have a season with Jane. But with Mr. Bingley's arrival and Mr. Collins coming to extend an olive branch, that season only turns into a one month visit with the Gardiners for Elizabeth to find a husband! Will it be enough time? And will her friendship with the Darcy's help her find what she is looking for? The stakes are high, will it be win, lose or draw? Again, Ms. Joy has written an emotional story that pulls at our heartstrings along with Darcy and Elizabeth's. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. 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 most beloved characters in a whole new way. I enjoyed seeing the plot unfold with familiar characters in somewhat different roles. Right from the beginning, this story pulls you in and doesn't let go. This 'what if' certainly was a surprise, a heartbreaking one. The Darcy's lost Pemberley! The only bright spot on the day young Fitzwilliam learns of this, is his chance meeting with Mr. Gardiner and his two young nieces. Who knew one young lively child would put a smile on his face. One he would teach a game to, and one who was rewarded with a beautiful green ribbon for winning that game. Flash forward fifteen years later, Netherfield Hall has let at last. But things take a different path at the assembly. More than just Mr. Bingley, Miss Bingley, the Hurst's and Mr. Darcy are present. Will Mr. Darcy remember the Bennet sisters? And in this variation, Lady Anne is still alive and what a 'Lady' she is! I loved her. Darcy is a man on a mission these past fifteen years. I so enjoyed his continued relationship with the Gardiners. He has focused all his attentions on regaining Pemberley from the man who owns it. But this man is a master puppeteer pulling Darcy's strings and anyone else he can manipulate and control, Mr. Packer. He is a vile and insidious human being and his comeuppance was well deserved. Yes, we have the snake, Mr. Wickham, but his role pales in comparison to Mr. Packer, and the pesky fly, Miss Bingley, is swatted. As for Elizabeth, she is intent on going to London to have a season with Jane. But with Mr. Bingley's arrival and Mr. Collins coming to extend an olive branch, that season only turns into a one month visit with the Gardiners for Elizabeth to find a husband! Will it be enough time? And will her friendship with the Darcy's help her find what she is looking for? The stakes are high, will it be win, lose or draw? Again, Ms. Joy has written an emotional story that pulls at our heartstrings along with Darcy and Elizabeth's. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. I highly recommend to everyone.
November 17, 2025
Pemberley is lost
This is one that I’m doing catchup reviews on and so I read/listen again before I do the review to make sure that my recollection is correct.
This story has a young Darcy whose world is shattered due to a wager that his father lost. He rushes off in hopes of selling a vase to save his home. He ends up meeting little lively Lizzy, who is there with Jane and their uncle. This meeting was life altering as Darcy found someone he could trust implicitly. Years later, Darcy attends the famous assembly, but his sister is with him and she strikes up a friendship with Elizabeth. Elizabeth is desperate for her and Jane to have a season in town instead of being subjected to Mr. Collins‘s upcoming visit.
Darcy‘s soul focus is buying back his family estate from the man who “won” it from his father. In this variation, his mother is alive and she works with Elizabeth’s aunt and Georgiana to help Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love. But there are additional obstacles in their way, primarily the current owner of Pemberley. The question is what will Darcy do or not do to have the estate returned to their family.
The audiobook is fantastically narrated by Stevie Zimmerman.
This is one that I’m doing catchup reviews on and so I read/listen again before I do the review to make sure that my recollection is correct.
This story has a young Darcy whose world is shattered due to a wager that his father lost. He rushes off in hopes of selling a vase to save his home. He ends up meeting little lively Lizzy, who is there with Jane and their uncle. This meeting was life altering as Darcy found someone he could trust implicitly. Years later, Darcy attends the famous assembly, but his sister is with him and she strikes up a friendship with Elizabeth. Elizabeth is desperate for her and Jane to have a season in town instead of being subjected to Mr. Collins‘s upcoming visit.
Darcy‘s soul focus is buying back his family estate from the man who “won” it from his father. In this variation, his mother is alive and she works with Elizabeth’s aunt and Georgiana to help Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love. But there are additional obstacles in their way, primarily the current owner of Pemberley. The question is what will Darcy do or not do to have the estate returned to their family.
The audiobook is fantastically narrated by Stevie Zimmerman.
December 12, 2020
Enjoyable
I do like the limited angst but I was expecting more angst (due to the title) and had to reassure myself that it turned out well. It is a hard thing to accept a Pemberley-less Fitzwilliam Darcy but I rather liked him. And Elizabeth was so positive, it was easy to like her. I never understood why the Gardiners, or even the Darcys, would not just invite her to stay for the season. Why must she return? At the end though, I would have preferred sentiments about being forever happy no matter where they were, as long as they were together. But now that I write that, it sounds trite.
I do like the limited angst but I was expecting more angst (due to the title) and had to reassure myself that it turned out well. It is a hard thing to accept a Pemberley-less Fitzwilliam Darcy but I rather liked him. And Elizabeth was so positive, it was easy to like her. I never understood why the Gardiners, or even the Darcys, would not just invite her to stay for the season. Why must she return? At the end though, I would have preferred sentiments about being forever happy no matter where they were, as long as they were together. But now that I write that, it sounds trite.
January 31, 2024
Which Darcy made the wager of the title?
This book is as well written and edited as every other by this author that I have read. The 4 stars rather than 5 stars rating is solely because I did not particularly care for the depiction of several of the characters, especially Darcy and Darcy senior. The storyline was not a favorite, but this was still a good story with a surprising twist at the end.
Recommended to JAFF readers as another successful variation by Ms. Joy.
This book is as well written and edited as every other by this author that I have read. The 4 stars rather than 5 stars rating is solely because I did not particularly care for the depiction of several of the characters, especially Darcy and Darcy senior. The storyline was not a favorite, but this was still a good story with a surprising twist at the end.
Recommended to JAFF readers as another successful variation by Ms. Joy.
November 21, 2024
It was fun to think about how things would have been different for Darcy and Elizabeth if they'd lived in different circumstances. I loved the addition of Lady Anne and getting a taste of what Darcy's mother could have been like had she shown up in P&P. I also loved the quotes from the original that popped up, often from characters other than those who originally spoke them. I'm interested in the rest of the series because it's extremely creative to come up with that many iterations.
November 16, 2020
Read this in one day. I had to know how things were going to work. Ahem, never doubted they would, this is E and D after all.
Well written series, if not of the more complicated books of this genre. However, if you are looking for sweet enjoyment, this series would be a great choice.
Well written series, if not of the more complicated books of this genre. However, if you are looking for sweet enjoyment, this series would be a great choice.
October 16, 2024
Fun Jane Austen Pride and Prejudice variation where Darcy doesn't have Pemberly in the first place. Now what? But he does meet Lizzy as a young child, so we see where the story changes from there. I think it turns out all right. (And we see very little of Collins, hooray). Clean.
December 8, 2025
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Stevie Zimmerman who is one of my favorite narrators of JAFF. This Pride and Prejudice variation has a unique story line. Darcy and Elizabeth meet when they are very young
October 8, 2021
3.25 stars
This is how I feel about the plot:
Which is not to say I was not entertained.
But it was just too much for me. Everything to do with all of the gambling involved in the plot was ridiculous (and not the fun kind), and I was not feeling it.
So that's it.
That's my review.
This is how I feel about the plot:
Which is not to say I was not entertained.
But it was just too much for me. Everything to do with all of the gambling involved in the plot was ridiculous (and not the fun kind), and I was not feeling it.
So that's it.
That's my review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews