Much Ado About Darcy: A Regency Pride and Prejudice Variation

by Andrea David

Never-before-published Austenesque romance!

Elizabeth Bennet is overjoyed when Charles Bingley eagerly courts her sister Jane. If only Lizzy didn't have to spend time with his friend, the annoyingly handsome Mr. Darcy. She can't help but match wits—and tempers—with the insufferable man. Enduring his company will be worth it, though, once Jane is wed.

But her sister's happiness may be lost when Wickham arrives in Meryton, bitter and seeking to punish those close to his old enemy Darcy. Believing Jane's marriage settlement will cover his debts, Wickham conspires to compromise her and leave Darcy's friend Bingley bereft.

Lizzy must prove Jane's innocence, but she can't do it alone. She finds an unlikely ally in Darcy. Can they work together to save Jane and Bingley's love? And can Lizzy hide her reckless feelings for the infuriating man who's slowly winning her heart?

This 58,000-word romance novel has a happy ending and no cliffhanger.

Genres: Historical, Fiction

178 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2020

Reviews

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

From her first meeting Elizabeth feels a strange attraction to Mr Darcy. But the man is so haughty that she detests spending time in his company. When Jane and Bingley become engaged she is determined to endure him for the sake of her sister and her suitor. But then Wickham comes to Meryton, determined to cover his debts by compromising and marrying an heiress - and Jane who is heir to Longbourn is his intended victim. Elizabeth and Darcy must now join forces to prove Jane's innocence and stop Wickham from causing further harm.
Will Elizabeth change her opinion of Darcy while working with him to prove Jane's innocence? What are Darcy's feelings on the matter? And can they stop Wickham before he succeeded in gaining a fortune by deception?

The book was very well written by the author Andrea David. I like her books very much and enjoyed this book, too. It is a steamy variation with mature content. Due to the ongoing threats posed by Wickham and Caroline the book was in addition very thrilling. I couldn't put it down because I wanted to know if Darcy and Elizabeth were able to stop their machinations.

I really like the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth. They are drawn to each other from the first moment but are both not ready to admit it. The more time they spend together the less they are able to deny what they feel for each other and they finally act on it. I really enjoy that they act on their feelings. This speeds the development of their relationship up and they are more certain that they want to be together. But nevertheless Darcy takes his time to court Elizabeth properly so that Elizabeth can be certain about his motifs for their relationship. I always like when Darcy is courting Elizabeth and therefore enjoyed reading about it very much.

Furthermore I really enjoy that the two need to work together to prove Jane’s innocence. In my opinion they are always a great team because they are both clever and observant. And they complement each other in the other characteristics they need to bring Jane’s suffering to a positive ending.

I must confess I do not like Bingley very much in this variation. He doesn’t stand by Jane’s side like he ought to but he is swayed by his sisters and the appearance of things. I really can’t understand why Jane took him back without hesitation. I would not have wanted such an unreliable person in my life, as soon as it gets difficult he is gone out of fear for his reputation or because he believes others more than me.

As you can guess from the description of the book Caroline and Wickham are the villains in the book. They try to use Jane for their own purposes. Fortunately, in the end, they are not successful and they, in a way, get what they deserve. But you need to see for yourself.

There was one thing I really didn’t like. I really never ever can imagine that Elizabeth will call her husband Darcy when they are intimate in bed. Sorry, in my opinion that’s not possible. They are such passionate people and she should call him Darcy like for example Bingley or his cousin the Colonel? Nope, never. Therefore I give 4,5 stars but I round it up to five because I really enjoyed the rest of the story.

If you like to know how Darcy and Elizabeth need to work together to rescue Jane from Wickham’s machinations to gain her fortune you should definitely read this excellent variation.

I highly recommend it.

Please be aware that this book is suited for a mature audience.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jen B · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25*
The more I read. the more familiar it became until I realized that I had read the clean version of this released years ago. I was quite happy to rediscover this and still enjoyed the twists from canon. A different entail, some candid conversations and overheard ones during Jane's illness sets ODC on a different path that was convincing and enjoyable.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lady Mercury · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't want to give away anything of the story because this one might well be her best work in my opinion. Also, the blurb says the most important things you need to know before reading.
The twists and plot were a real page turner. The Ending was also really satisfying. Not to mention how well the book was written.

I received a free copy of the book from the Author and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Gill M · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this variation, Jane Bennet is the heir to her father's estate, Longbourn.
Unfortunately, this makes her a target to fortune hunters.

Jane and Charles Bingley are courting. She becomes unwell when dining at his house, so her devoted sister Elizabeth rushes to care for her.

Elizabeth has to suffer the company of the annoying Mr Darcy.

When Jane and Bingley are close to betrothal, two wicked outside forces conspire to blast their hopes.

A compelling read, but Wickham is not just slimy, but frightening.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rukshy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written, unique variation of Pride and Prejudice. Despite an intense dislike to Mr Darcy, Elizabeth Bennet is willing to work together with him to save her beloved sister Jane's happiness. Lots of interesting twists, although it was a little slow to start. 4.5/5 stars

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Regency Pride and Prejudice Variation it is well written and very different than most P&P's I have read. I enjoyed reading this twist to the story, with its secrets and dastardly plans. A story that is well worth reading. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lenora Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this story. very original character developement

[Julie Goodman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, loved it. A lot of twists and turns and unexpected surprises. Well done!

[Maria Escarda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Engaging, however shocking

This variation is very engaging with the numerous sub-plots and twists as the story moved along. The most remarkable of themes is how Charles Bingley seemed to have abandoned Jane Bennet due to her alleged dalliance with Wickham while Jane and Charles were already in the brink of making their wedding vows. That somewhat roused strong emotions in this reader. Therefore, there is enough to keep the reader interested and entertained.

What is disappointing about this variation is the author’s insistence on making the characters more dishonorable and beaming with impropriety. Even a maiden like Elizabeth Bennet cannot be expected to have lustful thoughts and desires for the man she loves. It’s unthinkable. This mindset continues on all throughout the novel and it’s quite disturbing to say the least. Also, the title seem inappropriate despite the forced connection of one literary work to another. Mr. Darcy is the hero indeed, but much do the story does not paint him in a favorable light due to his thoughts about Miss Bingley and other marriage prospects, as well as his initial take on Elizabeth Bennet and the Bennet family. His sudden desire to have Elizabeth his seemed contrived or forced without much foundation.

Nevertheless, it’s an enjoyable read if one delights in outrageous plots and scenarios. This read much like a soap opera waiting to burst by the seams.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

There were so many interesting twists to the story I couldn’t put the book down till I was done. I found many familiar P&P characters enjoyable to read about in different situations. Who would have thought some were so cold and calculating! The revelation of a secret and plans to deal with a situation tied to it were ones that I had never considered. A wonderful read with a very satisfying ending.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a read. I loved it. So much emotion for all involved. I must confess I have never read Pride and Prejudice. Thus, being said I didn’t compare this book as others have in their reviews. I found this book to be great, not true to the period some, but a read that you can’t put down either. Darcy made some cruel remarks about Elizabeth/Lizzy at her coming out and she and her sister, Jane’s overheard him. Neither have forgotten or trust him. Unfortunately, he is Jane's fiancée, Bingley’s best friend and around all the time. When Jane becomes ill, Lizzy rushes to care for her putting her at the same house as Darcy. Let the games began. Both Darcy and Lizzy find things about the other that they would never had thought. Leading to feelings for both. Add in a very self-thinking, stick up sister to Bingley who is horrible and plans on getting Darcy one way or other. If that’s not enough to make your head spin, Darcy’s past shows up, Wickham. He is out for money, gain and woman nothing will stand in his way, caring not who get hurt. Wow, what a read. So much going on, tons of witty banter, twist and turns and yup enough steam to fog you glasses too. Grad a copy and get started to see how it all works out and how the problems are solved or not. I received and ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it. Enjoy.

[Shannon Grover · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won't describe the plot of the book because I think the book description does that really well already. .

Darcy and Elizabeth have always given off Benedict and Beatrice vibes so it's no wonder that authors love to bring Much Ado About Nothing by Shakespeare into the Pride and Prejudice universe. But in particular, Bingley and Jane Bennet are definitely Claudio and Hero. They are my least favorite people in canon because they are weak and too easily influenced, particularly Bingley. Bringing the Shakespeare story in was perfect for them.

The steamy bits were nice. They weren't so graphic I would call it erotica but descriptive enough to be enjoyable. And they were part of the storyline rather than the point of the storyline. It's always nice when and author is able to balance that well.

All in all I enjoyed it. It was longer than the other Andrea David books I own and the author did well at carrying the story the longer length.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Buturot · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story happened mostly during the time Mr. Bingley took possession of Netherfield. It started when Jane was ill and Lizzy took care of her. These time allowed ODC some moements of interaction and realizations, esp of their feelings. Mr. Wickham got involved, this is were the story, (I feel )started. There were revelations ans schemes.

I thought some parts of the story were familiar. (After reading the story, I read a review stating this was a republished story). Nevertheless, this was entertaining. The plot, scheming and the discovery were greatly laid out. It didnt feel rushed or just something out of the blue, and it was realistic. (Lizzy's idea about Jane's death was fortuitous).

Great story for P & P fans

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not your usual view of Elizabeth and Darcy! They are steamy, argumentative, misunderstood mess! Then they learn why they are the way they are and set aside their differences and their courtship begins! But not until they get Jane settled with Darcy’s best friend Bingley! This story has betrayal, Midnight assignations and villains that would be worse! Darcy has devoted himself to the truth so that Jane and Bingley could wed! There is a huge misunderstanding and Bingley is being a dunderhead!
But there are several subplots to the main one and the villain Wickham is a doozy! He is a gambler and a womanizer!
He is also has secrets that Darcy uncovers! Can Elizabeth accept Darcy secrets and him!? Or will all of this prove too much? If you are looking a sweet version of this story! This ain’t it! It will fog your glasses!
I received an ARC copy for my unbiased review’

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first time reading something by this author and I am so glad I picked this up. I always love a good P&P variation, so by the title alone I was pretty certain I would like this book. This was a very well-written and unique variation that had quite a number twists that really kept me intrigued and turning the pages, anxious to find out what happens next. I was so engrossed in the story, I could not put it down. While the essence of the original story is still there, this version shows us sides of the characters that I had not considered. A very enjoyable and entertaining read. I look forward to reading more by this author!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[MJ J · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read and enjoyed Jane Austen fanfiction since my daughter introduced me to it some years ago. Because P&P fanfiction authors write not only within a particular time period but also with the same cast of characters, authors often only give slight spins on canon in their works or work with well-tried historical tropes. This is one of the few unique variations I've seen. Jane is the heiress of Longbourn, and she is set up as Wickham's victim in a compromise scheme. I've read a lot of P&P variations, but I don't think I've seen that one! That made this book a page-turner because I wanted to see what different alleys this author would go down. A very enjoyable—and unique—Pride and Prejudice variation.

I was gifted this as an eARC but this is my honest opinion.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful Pride and Prejudice variation!

Andrea David’s voice feels effortless and true, and I was hooked from the first page. The banter between the characters is witty and believable, and she does justice to Austen’s beloved characters.

The Lizzy-Darcy arc was everything I wanted—thoughtful, satisfying, and beautifully handled. But my unexpected favourite part? Caroline Bingley. Andrea gave her such nuance, peeling back the layers so we could see why she behaves the way she does. It made her feel real, almost sympathetic, and definitely memorable.

It’s clear Andrea both respects Austen’s world and brings her own flair to it, which made this a joy to read. Highly recommend for any Austen fan!

I received an advance reader copy, and these are my own thoughts.

[Meranc · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an interesting new take on canon where Darcy and Lizzy aren’t quite as antagonistic from the get go, they are friendly, until something happens that Lizzy can’t trust.

Meanwhile, Caroline is scheming, hard, with Wickham’s help and his prodding. When problems mount she interferes with Bingley and Jane and Darcy steps in to save the day, not knowing that he may be walking into a trap.

Overall, very entertaining and worth the read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nikki Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intriguing read and one that I enjoyed. There are many twists and turns in this story which starts when Jane falls it while at Netherfield. When Elizabeth joins her to look after her, she finds herself seeing Mr Darcy in a different light. When Wickham appears he connives with Caroline Bingley to ruin Jane's reputation.while trying to avoid Darcy. What neither of them counted on was Darcy's growing feelings for Elizabeth and his determination to help her clear Jane's reputation. A well written variation that is a certain to keep you turning the pages.

[RoseyLovesBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Much Ado About Darcy, Andrea David turns up the heat on Austen’s classic with a sizzling enemies-to-lovers twist. When Lizzy Bennet discovers Wickham’s latest scheme to ruin Jane and Bingley’s happiness, she has no choice but to team up with the last man she ever wanted help from, Mr. Darcy himself. Expect sharp banter, scandalous twists, and slow-burn tension that eventually boils over. Darcy’s brooding, Lizzy’s bold, and together they’re pure fire. Quick, clever, and just the right amount of steamy, this is Regency romance with bite.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lizzy and Mr Darcy do not get on and she quickly forms an ill-opinion of Mr Darcy and can barely bring herself to endure the insufferable mans company. However it will all be worth it to see her sister Jane happily married to hiz friend Mr Bingley. All seems to be going well until the arrival of Mr Wickham seeks to scupper their happiness by seeking to compromise Jane and force her to marry him so that he csn use her dowry to.pay off his creditors. Can Lizzy and her unlikely ally in the form of Mr Darcy prove her sister's innocence and bring Mr Bingley and Jane back together again.

[Karen Gyngell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It was well written and the characters were true to the original Darcy got over his arrogance early on and realised Elizabeth was perfect for him. There are the usual villains and a small amount of angst but it was mainly just a really sweet story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sabrina Kern · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is well written and engaging so you can't lay it aside.
The Story evolves in a realstic way and stays true to the characters but shows some different sides of some.
Beside Darcy and Lizzy, Jane and Bingley, Caroline and Wickham have also a major part in the book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Christine Nowak · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading the story. The small change in situation with Jane as the heiress of Longbourne and the trouble she found herself in, as well as Caroline's different reasons for her fixation on Darcy were interesting. Four stars because things between Elizabeth and Darcy were settled a little too fast for my taste and after that the side story's took over. Definitely recommend this book!

[Lyn D Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Pride and Prejudice variation was an interesting and well written historical romance. The characters, romance, drama, emotional issues, and plot twists were entertaining. I enjoyed how this version turns out for everyone. I recommend reading!

[Teresita · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great plot masterfully developed! I've been totally immersed in all the conniving surrounding the main characters, and greatly enjoyed the way our dear couple worked to uncover all those intrigues. A great read worth the time!

[Barbara Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Allow a full day for this steamy, adult variation of Pride and Prejudice featuring much ado, Darcy, pride, prejudice, England, humor, laughs, fortune hunters, skullduggery, and romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this Pride and Prejudice variation Jane is the heiress to Longbourn. So how will this affect the behaviour of Bingley and Wickham. Can Elizabeth and Darcy save Jane to give her a happy ending.
An entertaining and well-written story.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via BooksFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s been a while since I read Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing. However I thought this book captured the essence well. An entertaining read.

I really wish we could give partial stars on these reviews. I thought it was well written and I enjoyed it. 5 stars are reserved for books I loved so much I can’t stop thinking about them and I would definitely reread.