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As Fate Would Have It: A Pride and Prejudice Variation Novella
What if Elizabeth responded to Mr. Darcy's letter?
This story begins a few weeks after the Hunsford proposal.
Consumed with remorse, Elizabeth writes a letter to Mr. Darcy, which plays a role in the outcome of the story.
Gifted with hope and an opportunity to redeem himself, Mr. Darcy formulates a plan to obtain Elizabeth's forgiveness and prove himself worthy of her.
This story begins a few weeks after the Hunsford proposal.
Consumed with remorse, Elizabeth writes a letter to Mr. Darcy, which plays a role in the outcome of the story.
Gifted with hope and an opportunity to redeem himself, Mr. Darcy formulates a plan to obtain Elizabeth's forgiveness and prove himself worthy of her.
- GenresHistorical Romance
59 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 12, 2020
29 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
March 20, 2024
3.5*
This is a short story, due in part to major jumps from scene to scene.
I LOVED the beginning. It starts with Elizabeth bumping into Darcy in London to surreptitiously give him a letter of response to his from Hunsford. This gives Darcy hope to try again-he gets a re-do! There we see his efforts to be warm and get to know Elizabeth and be pleasing to her family.
Jump to him saving E, from an accident during a walk while she is on her way back home to Longbourn (which may or may not cause a compromise) and then begins OOC behavior for our heroine. I don't think a maiden who has never been kissed would contemplate touching an unconscious man, no matter how handsome. D has his own demons to control while E is sleeping.
Jump to Longbourn and the friendliness progresses, until we hit a snag. A believable misunderstanding, but gets resolved quickly (short story).
However from then on out the story becomes predominantly about their lust. Beautifully described, with as many 4 syllable words as possible. However, I came away with the impression that all the flowery language of the loving did was hide the fact that there wasn't more development of the characters and their relationship, aside from their passions.
I was left rolling my eyes about the last part, but fondly remembering the well done beginning and wishing the author had inserted more of that quality into the end as well.
It is a short story and I think anyone reading it will enjoy!
This is a short story, due in part to major jumps from scene to scene.
I LOVED the beginning. It starts with Elizabeth bumping into Darcy in London to surreptitiously give him a letter of response to his from Hunsford. This gives Darcy hope to try again-he gets a re-do! There we see his efforts to be warm and get to know Elizabeth and be pleasing to her family.
Jump to him saving E, from an accident during a walk while she is on her way back home to Longbourn (which may or may not cause a compromise) and then begins OOC behavior for our heroine. I don't think a maiden who has never been kissed would contemplate touching an unconscious man, no matter how handsome. D has his own demons to control while E is sleeping.
Jump to Longbourn and the friendliness progresses, until we hit a snag. A believable misunderstanding, but gets resolved quickly (short story).
However from then on out the story becomes predominantly about their lust. Beautifully described, with as many 4 syllable words as possible. However, I came away with the impression that all the flowery language of the loving did was hide the fact that there wasn't more development of the characters and their relationship, aside from their passions.
I was left rolling my eyes about the last part, but fondly remembering the well done beginning and wishing the author had inserted more of that quality into the end as well.
It is a short story and I think anyone reading it will enjoy!
March 23, 2022
Multiple Tropes
A pretty good novella goes from depicting second chances for ODC, to being stranded and potentially compromised, although they manage to keep it hidden. Then there’s an overheard conversation by Elizabeth that threatens to ruin Darcy’s hopes. It ultimately ends with a HEA, and a nicely written wedding night. A lot happens in few pages.
A pretty good novella goes from depicting second chances for ODC, to being stranded and potentially compromised, although they manage to keep it hidden. Then there’s an overheard conversation by Elizabeth that threatens to ruin Darcy’s hopes. It ultimately ends with a HEA, and a nicely written wedding night. A lot happens in few pages.
March 29, 2022
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
This very short story is basically about Elizabeth giving Darcy a letter in replay to the proposal and his letter at Hunsford and thus his second chance. There is a scene which in which a compromise occurs and lustful thoughts arise for both. However, they manage to keep that event a secret. Caroline almost ruins Darcy's attempts to woe Elizabeth but that, also, they manage to overcome.
The wedding night is described in some detail, so be warned...if you prefer not to read MA material.
This was a pleasant read with basically no angst.
This very short story is basically about Elizabeth giving Darcy a letter in replay to the proposal and his letter at Hunsford and thus his second chance. There is a scene which in which a compromise occurs and lustful thoughts arise for both. However, they manage to keep that event a secret. Caroline almost ruins Darcy's attempts to woe Elizabeth but that, also, they manage to overcome.
The wedding night is described in some detail, so be warned...if you prefer not to read MA material.
This was a pleasant read with basically no angst.
May 9, 2022
Romantic
An interesting story that gives Elizabeth the initiative. A lovely Darcy that changes before our eyes, smiling and enchanting even Mrs. Bennet.
An interesting story that gives Elizabeth the initiative. A lovely Darcy that changes before our eyes, smiling and enchanting even Mrs. Bennet.
April 23, 2022
This novella is a 4.5 star book with only minor technical errors and a light and pleasing story. The book is low angst with some out of consecutive scenes that are the only thing that mar its excellent prose and story.
I don't write normal reviews. You won't get a synopsis from me. Instead, I write technical reviews so readers are aware that they may find issues within the book that can snap them out of the comfort zone and cause them to drop stars in their reviews.
The plot is a complete story arc without unnecessary side plots, typical for a book of this length. Nothing is wanting in terms of the completeness of the story. The book ends with a full chapter of excellent prose in a non-explicit but extremely steamy wedding night scene that is slightly an aside from the story and could have been dropped. The end line is precious. Some events within the story are out of order without time line tags, which can be slightly confusing.
Flow is a pleasant pace, not too fast and not too slow.
Language is enjoyable for the most part, with excellent canon tone. The language of the letter is mesmerizing, it's so well-written. Use of words didn't include anything that had to be looked up, though, so the tone suited your average JAFF reader. There are a few errors, and I hope the author corrects the e-version. She has used non-Regency mesmerized, libido, and synapses: only three words where most JAFF books have a half-dozen such words. The American "I will" was used where the British would have said "I shall." Typos included "helps" for "help," "overcome" for "overcame," and a possessive was used for a plural.
The book refers to the envelope of a letter when letters did not have such. They were merely folded and a blank side of the writing paper served as the envelope.
Scene-setting is simplistic and brief yet it works for a book this short.
Characterization is more or less parallel with canon.
At one point, the story refers to "the older woman," and I think that means Elizabeth. It's an inconvenient choice of words. To say "the lady" in comparison with a child would have been sufficient.
The cover is awful. It doesn't stand out next to other JAFF covers and say "Buy Me." The colours are on the dull side, the layout is awkward, the font choice isn't good for small size as on Amazon (you can't even read the author name!), and I tend to dislike floral covers for the simple reason that they say nothing at all about the story. A better choice would have been to select a cover that indicated a key scene in the story and used bolder colours and fonts.
Overall, this is a pleasant read with excellent prose that pulls you into the Regency feel quite well. This author has a knack with words. Those who prefer a so-called clean book can just skip the last chapter down to the final words of the last paragraph and there you go: happy. Those who love steam will enjoy the well-executed private marital love scene within the final chapter, which will definitely make your toes curl despite the lack of detail.
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author, and my reviews might be considered a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them to benefit both the reader and the author.
I don't write normal reviews. You won't get a synopsis from me. Instead, I write technical reviews so readers are aware that they may find issues within the book that can snap them out of the comfort zone and cause them to drop stars in their reviews.
The plot is a complete story arc without unnecessary side plots, typical for a book of this length. Nothing is wanting in terms of the completeness of the story. The book ends with a full chapter of excellent prose in a non-explicit but extremely steamy wedding night scene that is slightly an aside from the story and could have been dropped. The end line is precious. Some events within the story are out of order without time line tags, which can be slightly confusing.
Flow is a pleasant pace, not too fast and not too slow.
Language is enjoyable for the most part, with excellent canon tone. The language of the letter is mesmerizing, it's so well-written. Use of words didn't include anything that had to be looked up, though, so the tone suited your average JAFF reader. There are a few errors, and I hope the author corrects the e-version. She has used non-Regency mesmerized, libido, and synapses: only three words where most JAFF books have a half-dozen such words. The American "I will" was used where the British would have said "I shall." Typos included "helps" for "help," "overcome" for "overcame," and a possessive was used for a plural.
The book refers to the envelope of a letter when letters did not have such. They were merely folded and a blank side of the writing paper served as the envelope.
Scene-setting is simplistic and brief yet it works for a book this short.
Characterization is more or less parallel with canon.
At one point, the story refers to "the older woman," and I think that means Elizabeth. It's an inconvenient choice of words. To say "the lady" in comparison with a child would have been sufficient.
The cover is awful. It doesn't stand out next to other JAFF covers and say "Buy Me." The colours are on the dull side, the layout is awkward, the font choice isn't good for small size as on Amazon (you can't even read the author name!), and I tend to dislike floral covers for the simple reason that they say nothing at all about the story. A better choice would have been to select a cover that indicated a key scene in the story and used bolder colours and fonts.
Overall, this is a pleasant read with excellent prose that pulls you into the Regency feel quite well. This author has a knack with words. Those who prefer a so-called clean book can just skip the last chapter down to the final words of the last paragraph and there you go: happy. Those who love steam will enjoy the well-executed private marital love scene within the final chapter, which will definitely make your toes curl despite the lack of detail.
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author, and my reviews might be considered a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them to benefit both the reader and the author.
January 15, 2021
Short, sweet, simple
A delicious little morsel, just enough for a feel-good story. After the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, and after receiving the letter from Darcy, Elizbeth makes the bold move of writing a letter to him, and getting it to him after her return to London. The letter lifts Darcy's spirits, and makes him determined to court Elizabeth and change her mind about him. The letter is her apology for her harsh words and for her unfair accusations.
This is a simple tale with a minimum of supporting characters. There are no real villains to mess things up. Darcy is very persistent in his resolve, and quite adorable in the execution of his plan. He charms the Gardiners, restores Bingley to Jane, and lavishes attention on Elizabeth. Fortunately, Elizabeth is ready to fall in love, so the swoon worthy Darcy has little getting in his way.
There is a scene where Darcy and Elizabeth are stuck together overnight in a cabin that I thought was a little too contrived. However, it's cute and sweet and romantic. I deducted a star because the ending of the story left me flat, even though it is the consummation of their marriage. I would have liked a little more about their life and future. It was very abrupt. Still, the book is well written and well edited. I recommend it.
A delicious little morsel, just enough for a feel-good story. After the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, and after receiving the letter from Darcy, Elizbeth makes the bold move of writing a letter to him, and getting it to him after her return to London. The letter lifts Darcy's spirits, and makes him determined to court Elizabeth and change her mind about him. The letter is her apology for her harsh words and for her unfair accusations.
This is a simple tale with a minimum of supporting characters. There are no real villains to mess things up. Darcy is very persistent in his resolve, and quite adorable in the execution of his plan. He charms the Gardiners, restores Bingley to Jane, and lavishes attention on Elizabeth. Fortunately, Elizabeth is ready to fall in love, so the swoon worthy Darcy has little getting in his way.
There is a scene where Darcy and Elizabeth are stuck together overnight in a cabin that I thought was a little too contrived. However, it's cute and sweet and romantic. I deducted a star because the ending of the story left me flat, even though it is the consummation of their marriage. I would have liked a little more about their life and future. It was very abrupt. Still, the book is well written and well edited. I recommend it.
March 10, 2021
Even the intimate scenes were...
B.O.R.I.N.G.! I can’t imagine anything else I’ve read that is so completely tedious, and I am a heavy reader. And to think that I would have had to pay for the privilege, except that I used Amazon credits.
B.O.R.I.N.G.! I can’t imagine anything else I’ve read that is so completely tedious, and I am a heavy reader. And to think that I would have had to pay for the privilege, except that I used Amazon credits.
May 9, 2021
A fun novella that starts with Elizabeth responding to Darcy’s letter in Kent. Darcy is encouraged enough to seek out her company in London.
While the letter is the supposed turning point, it really doesn’t play a huge role in the story. Another situation comes along that actually furthers the plot.
While I think some of the story could be improved, the focus is on several sweet interactions and a misunderstanding that ultimately leads to a happy ending. I really enjoyed some of the dialogue and will probably re-read some sections. If you’re looking for a short and emotional read, this hits the spot.
While the letter is the supposed turning point, it really doesn’t play a huge role in the story. Another situation comes along that actually furthers the plot.
While I think some of the story could be improved, the focus is on several sweet interactions and a misunderstanding that ultimately leads to a happy ending. I really enjoyed some of the dialogue and will probably re-read some sections. If you’re looking for a short and emotional read, this hits the spot.
February 4, 2021
Cute, sweet, brief
A short tale, without much new to set it apart. But enjoyable in the interactions of ODC. They were forced to spend time alone together, and more development of that situation would have been fun. Ending turned a bit too bodice ripper for my taste; I enjoy explicit writing, but this was quite flat.
A short tale, without much new to set it apart. But enjoyable in the interactions of ODC. They were forced to spend time alone together, and more development of that situation would have been fun. Ending turned a bit too bodice ripper for my taste; I enjoy explicit writing, but this was quite flat.
April 4, 2021
Elizabeth and Darcy at their best
With this humorous and enticing variation we are able to embrace the characters after their heartache of Kent. This much improved Darcy with his loving and fun ways is wonderful. Elizabeth had no choice but to fall, literally, head over heels!!
With this humorous and enticing variation we are able to embrace the characters after their heartache of Kent. This much improved Darcy with his loving and fun ways is wonderful. Elizabeth had no choice but to fall, literally, head over heels!!
January 28, 2022
A ideia é interessante, mas não desenvolve de forma apropriada: a história vai pulando e nos dando pedaços da história sem um grande link entre elas.
È sobre partes do romance E&D, sem maiores participações dos demais personagens, o que não é ruim, mas poderia aprofundar o desenvolvimento do diálogo entre os dois e ter uma história mais continua e fluida.
È sobre partes do romance E&D, sem maiores participações dos demais personagens, o que não é ruim, mas poderia aprofundar o desenvolvimento do diálogo entre os dois e ter uma história mais continua e fluida.
February 4, 2021
Avid Reader
A lovely story where Darcy and Elizabeth get back together after she responds positively to his letter after his dreadful proposal at Hunsford. They only had one disagreement thanks to Caroline, which Darcy immediately corrected.
A lovely story where Darcy and Elizabeth get back together after she responds positively to his letter after his dreadful proposal at Hunsford. They only had one disagreement thanks to Caroline, which Darcy immediately corrected.
October 2, 2022
Cute little ramble
The idea was cute but has some added moments that just hastened the inevitable ending.
Was not really expecting the steamy bit at the end, but I suppose there were plenty hints. I’m
The idea was cute but has some added moments that just hastened the inevitable ending.
Was not really expecting the steamy bit at the end, but I suppose there were plenty hints. I’m
December 31, 2023
I loved the initiative of Elizabeth in the beginning. I loved how the Gardner children played a part in the story. Darcy and Elizabeth happy ever after is done in junior. Well written, clean, and sweet
March 24, 2022
short and sweet and a little steamy
A rather lovely and little naughty variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Kimberly McBride.
A rather lovely and little naughty variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Kimberly McBride.
March 26, 2022
This is a quick, but satisfying, read for an evening in.
Read
April 10, 2022DNF
May 31, 2023
(Novella) Lizzy responds to Darcy's letter. They have to spend a night in a cabin together but are not forced to marry, still able to fall in love
April 12, 2022
This story is like a quilt made from different scraps from various P&P variation tropes. The first fabric tile is "Elizabeth responds to Darcy's letter" (it is unclear how she knew where to find him). The second patch is from the "charming child plays matchmaker" tr0pe. Then we layer on some "Darcy rescues rambling hoyden" and "forced proximity in just one bed". I thought this would lead to the "forced marriage" pattern but nope, no one in the Bennet family seems at all interested that Lizzy somehow ditched Jane on the roadside and arrives home in a disheveled state after spending the night with Darcy. Then we stitch on a bit of "none of the Bennets have the sense that God gave a gnat". Hopeless gossips that they are, even Wickham had heard about Elizabeth's mysterious injury and Darcy riding to his rescue, although this story might very well have been Elizabeth's ruination. Finally we have "dinner at Longbourn", "Darcy makes nice with Mrs. Bennet", and "eavesdroppers never hear good of themselves", trimmed with "wedding night shenanigans".
There were some sweet scenes but at times the language is a bit stilted or flowery, and some of the scenes seemed a bit disconnected from what had happened before, like it was a collection of cute vignettes and not a complete plot. Especially the forest rescue scene that came out of nowhere and had no consequences except Elizabeth noticing that Darcy was a hot specimen. The story was a freebie for Kindle and it was a nice enough diversion but not something I would re-read.
There were some sweet scenes but at times the language is a bit stilted or flowery, and some of the scenes seemed a bit disconnected from what had happened before, like it was a collection of cute vignettes and not a complete plot. Especially the forest rescue scene that came out of nowhere and had no consequences except Elizabeth noticing that Darcy was a hot specimen. The story was a freebie for Kindle and it was a nice enough diversion but not something I would re-read.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews