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Lovers' Meeting: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Journeys end in lovers’ meetings, every wise man’s son doth know— William Shakespeare
IT IS A TRUTH UNIVERSALLY ACKNOWLEDGED that the disastrous first meeting of Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet at the Meryton Assembly provided each with a ready-made set of prejudices to apply to the other. But when a horrific rural accident reveals Darcy to be a man of active, intelligent benevolence, and Elizabeth, in the absence of her appalling family, to be an extraordinary lady of courage and decision—then surely the course of true love will run smoothly.
BUT ALAS, THE LOVERS' MEETING is not the end but a new beginning. For though they have found each other, a seeming multitude of complications—a catastrophic flood, the last wishes of a dying friend, Lydia’s misfortunes, a dastardly Member of Parliament, and even their own fears— contrives to come between them and their journey’s end.
IT IS A TRUTH UNIVERSALLY ACKNOWLEDGED that the disastrous first meeting of Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet at the Meryton Assembly provided each with a ready-made set of prejudices to apply to the other. But when a horrific rural accident reveals Darcy to be a man of active, intelligent benevolence, and Elizabeth, in the absence of her appalling family, to be an extraordinary lady of courage and decision—then surely the course of true love will run smoothly.
BUT ALAS, THE LOVERS' MEETING is not the end but a new beginning. For though they have found each other, a seeming multitude of complications—a catastrophic flood, the last wishes of a dying friend, Lydia’s misfortunes, a dastardly Member of Parliament, and even their own fears— contrives to come between them and their journey’s end.
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2021
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February 4, 2021
What Elizabeth Bennet learns about Mr. Darcy when she first encounters him in this story is that he's a wealthy man of action and compassion. What she doesn't know is that he's also a man who does what is right out of duty but takes no pleasure in performing it. This Mr. Darcy is suffering from deep depression, feeling heavily burdened by numerous responsibilities and a lack of joy in life.
Because he showed his best qualities in a crisis situation even before being introduced to anyone in the neighborhood, all of Meryton considers him favorably. His stand-offish behavior at the Meryton assembly is overlooked, especially when he does (reluctantly) dance with Elizabeth at Bingley's insistence - again, doing his duty. Darcy was already attracted to her good sense during the emergency, and now her humor and lightness lifts his spirits momentarily. His admiration increases when she spends time at Netherfield tending to her sick sister. Darcy recognizes how superior she is to the rest of her family - to the rest of the entire neighborhood - and marvels at her positive outlook while surrounded by such comparatively mediocre people. Sadly, his stifling sense of duty to his family name continues to gnaw at him - Elizabeth Bennet isn't the type of woman he can ever consider marrying. The admiration is mutual, though Elizabeth doesn't allow herself to have any expectations.
Darcy believes it's all for naught anyway, since his reaction to finding Wickham in Meryton conversing with Miss Elizabeth is explosive, to put it mildly. Disgusted with himself for his ungentlemanly behavior, he makes his apologies to Mr. Bennet and leaves the area immediately.
Of course, that's not the end of his interactions with Elizabeth. Soon Darcy bows to what seems to be the inevitable - much earlier than in canon - and asks her to marry him. Once again, Darcy dwells on all the reasons why he shouldn't marry her. In this case, he also assumes she'll be grateful to leave behind her terrible family and neighbors once she's his wife. Elizabeth is already half in love with him, despite his horrible proposal. How should she respond?
The book continues to move in surprising directions while still definitely a Pride and Prejudice plot. It masterfully blends a complex, interesting storyline with a coming-of-age character study of Fitzwilliam Darcy. As a musician myself, I love that music is a significant factor that helps him come alive again. It's apparent how much he needs Elizabeth - it goes beyond yearning, and the reader can't help but root for them to work things out. The author's writing is just lovely, making all the characters seem real.
Wonderful story. Wonderful writing. Clean content. Highly recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Because he showed his best qualities in a crisis situation even before being introduced to anyone in the neighborhood, all of Meryton considers him favorably. His stand-offish behavior at the Meryton assembly is overlooked, especially when he does (reluctantly) dance with Elizabeth at Bingley's insistence - again, doing his duty. Darcy was already attracted to her good sense during the emergency, and now her humor and lightness lifts his spirits momentarily. His admiration increases when she spends time at Netherfield tending to her sick sister. Darcy recognizes how superior she is to the rest of her family - to the rest of the entire neighborhood - and marvels at her positive outlook while surrounded by such comparatively mediocre people. Sadly, his stifling sense of duty to his family name continues to gnaw at him - Elizabeth Bennet isn't the type of woman he can ever consider marrying. The admiration is mutual, though Elizabeth doesn't allow herself to have any expectations.
Darcy believes it's all for naught anyway, since his reaction to finding Wickham in Meryton conversing with Miss Elizabeth is explosive, to put it mildly. Disgusted with himself for his ungentlemanly behavior, he makes his apologies to Mr. Bennet and leaves the area immediately.
Of course, that's not the end of his interactions with Elizabeth. Soon Darcy bows to what seems to be the inevitable - much earlier than in canon - and asks her to marry him. Once again, Darcy dwells on all the reasons why he shouldn't marry her. In this case, he also assumes she'll be grateful to leave behind her terrible family and neighbors once she's his wife. Elizabeth is already half in love with him, despite his horrible proposal. How should she respond?
The book continues to move in surprising directions while still definitely a Pride and Prejudice plot. It masterfully blends a complex, interesting storyline with a coming-of-age character study of Fitzwilliam Darcy. As a musician myself, I love that music is a significant factor that helps him come alive again. It's apparent how much he needs Elizabeth - it goes beyond yearning, and the reader can't help but root for them to work things out. The author's writing is just lovely, making all the characters seem real.
Wonderful story. Wonderful writing. Clean content. Highly recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 12, 2021
What a lovely romance. I just borrowed this author's other story from KU hoping for another 5 star tale. I received an ARC of this story with a request for a review. This review is all my own.
Much of this story has Darcy and Elizabeth in love but with various life events getting in the way of their path to a wedding. At times we are reading Darcy's mind and hearing echoes of his father talking to him about duty. He finds Elizabeth quite unique in comparison to all the women of the ton that he has known.
ODC first meet as Darcy, traveling to Netherfield, comes upon an accident which has the driver half buried as his load shifted when either a wheel or an axle breaks. Elizabeth is walking nearby and hears the horses' panicked neighing as they are trapped also. She helps sort out getting a cart and men to help uncover the driver but to also send for medical help. Elizabeth finds Darcy at times a contradiction. In this first meeting he is everything generous, even offering to provide financial support to the driver if his leg is amputated. Later, she notices his interaction with servants and, of course, she also sees his handling of Caroline Bingley for what it is. Early on Darcy learns that he must treat her family with respect even though they both agree that the family's behavior leaves much to be desired.
Elizabeth and Darcy interact at various times meeting while she is walking and then at the Assembly. There is a proposal, much like the one at Hunsford in canon with Elizabeth again turning him down. Darcy has times when he travels to a dying friend's house to consult about being the executor of his will or to bring Georgiana to Netherfield with him. Elizabeth hears about his "engagement" to his cousin, Anne, and so is put off by his attentions to herself.
Lydia, Caroline, Wickham and Darcy's friend, Meopham, play parts in this story. However it is not just a retelling of canon. There is a murder attempt upon Darcy. Mr. Bennet's neglect in managing his daughters becomes an issue and his relationship with Elizabeth cools. Darcy faces a scandal and his wedding is put off. In fact, he pushes to have both his sister and the Bennets leave London so as not to have to face the condemning gossips.
One of the descriptions of Darcy's thoughts that touched me is that he refers to Elizabeth in his mind as "She" as in talking to himself it is understood who is first and foremost in his thoughts, in importance to him.
This books does hint at the sexual chemistry that is between Darcy and Elizabeth but it never crosses the line into graphic MA material.
I highly recommend this story.
Much of this story has Darcy and Elizabeth in love but with various life events getting in the way of their path to a wedding. At times we are reading Darcy's mind and hearing echoes of his father talking to him about duty. He finds Elizabeth quite unique in comparison to all the women of the ton that he has known.
ODC first meet as Darcy, traveling to Netherfield, comes upon an accident which has the driver half buried as his load shifted when either a wheel or an axle breaks. Elizabeth is walking nearby and hears the horses' panicked neighing as they are trapped also. She helps sort out getting a cart and men to help uncover the driver but to also send for medical help. Elizabeth finds Darcy at times a contradiction. In this first meeting he is everything generous, even offering to provide financial support to the driver if his leg is amputated. Later, she notices his interaction with servants and, of course, she also sees his handling of Caroline Bingley for what it is. Early on Darcy learns that he must treat her family with respect even though they both agree that the family's behavior leaves much to be desired.
Elizabeth and Darcy interact at various times meeting while she is walking and then at the Assembly. There is a proposal, much like the one at Hunsford in canon with Elizabeth again turning him down. Darcy has times when he travels to a dying friend's house to consult about being the executor of his will or to bring Georgiana to Netherfield with him. Elizabeth hears about his "engagement" to his cousin, Anne, and so is put off by his attentions to herself.
Lydia, Caroline, Wickham and Darcy's friend, Meopham, play parts in this story. However it is not just a retelling of canon. There is a murder attempt upon Darcy. Mr. Bennet's neglect in managing his daughters becomes an issue and his relationship with Elizabeth cools. Darcy faces a scandal and his wedding is put off. In fact, he pushes to have both his sister and the Bennets leave London so as not to have to face the condemning gossips.
One of the descriptions of Darcy's thoughts that touched me is that he refers to Elizabeth in his mind as "She" as in talking to himself it is understood who is first and foremost in his thoughts, in importance to him.
This books does hint at the sexual chemistry that is between Darcy and Elizabeth but it never crosses the line into graphic MA material.
I highly recommend this story.
September 8, 2025
The great man is the man who has the courage to act. ~ Martin H. Fischer
Reading this book brought to mind an Andrew Davies interview from years ago. One point he made concerned our first sight of Darcy and Bingley galloping across the meadow toward Netherfield Park. Davies wanted to depict the characters as men of action rather than “drawing-room fops.”
“Lovers’ Meeting” begins with Elizabeth on a walk, considering the news that Netherfield Park is let at last.
Quote from the book: She wondered what her mother would do if this Mr. Bingley were unprincipled or riddled with some dreadful disease. She had barely determined that a mistress would probably not be an obstacle in her mother’s mind—although leprosy just might be —when her thoughts were interrupted by sudden, dreadful noises from the road, which lay about twenty yards away from her through the trees.
The dreadful noises are caused by a tragic accident with a cart filled with rock. As luck would have it, Fitzwilliam Darcy was also nearby and sprang into action, assisting the injured men and sending his groom for help. What a different meeting for our favorite lovers! Instead of “not handsome enough”, we read “It is a refreshing change indeed to meet such an intrepid young lady.” Perfect.
We cannot do everything at once, but we can do something at once. ~ Calvin Coolidge
Here is Darcy, an acknowledged hero to the town, plagued by what he sees as his imperfections and running a script of his father’s teachings through his head.
“A gentleman never grimaces, Fitzwilliam. His thoughts are his own.”
“A gentleman does not show anger, Fitzwilliam. I am seriously displeased.”
“A gentleman is never unappreciative, Fitzwilliam. Servants like to have their efforts noticed.”
“You belong to the land, just as much as the land belongs to you, Fitzwilliam. You owe it your best.”
“You are a Darcy, Fitzwilliam. Never forget your duty to that name. What I want, what you want are nothing. Duty is everything.”
If your work speaks for itself, don’t interrupt. ~ Henry J. Kaiser
Quote from the book: Suddenly, it was there, the anger he need no longer restrain, boiling through him, body and soul. He saw the man begin to form his usual defiant smirk and was off his horse and amidst them before he knew what he was doing. The smirk vanished; Wickham backed away, his eyes wide with alarm, his hands coming up in front of him.
Someone said, “Mr. Darcy!” as, with a single blow, he backhanded the swine off his feet and into the gutter.
Like I said, a man of action!
With all this helping here and helping there, you might think Darcy would not have the leisure to notice the second Bennet daughter. You would be wrong:
Quote from the book: He strode away, cursing his body’s betrayal. A little wit, a pair of big brown eyes, and there he was—strangled in his small clothes. Thank heaven for long coats. … He had to avoid her. It was only fair to her.
And the action keeps up. Darcy must visit his friend, Dicky Meopham, who is desperately ill.
Advice from Meopham: “Oh-ho, there’s a dangerous promise. Very well, I want you to find a pretty girl and dance with her. I want you to do three things you enjoy every day, and I want you to let yourself enjoy them. I want you to tell your relations to mind their own businesses, and I want you to find someone to talk to. Your trouble is, there’s no one in your life to tell you when you’re behaving like a gudgeon.”
Meopham asks for a final favor. How can doing his friend a favor lead to a charge of Criminal Conversation?
A loyal friend. A loving brother. What a great portrait of Darcy! But how can such a man make such a bungle of a proposal?
A journey home to Pemberley leads to another crisis: Lambton is flooded because a fallen tree has created a dam in the river. Once again, Darcy to the rescue.
Quote from the book: “Ah yes, Mr. Darcy, but which half am I supposed to believe in this instance?”
“Why the heroic, dashing part, of course,” said Fitzwilliam.
Darcy glowered at his cousin in mock displeasure. “I suggest, Miss Bennet, you start by disbelieving all the adjectives and dividing all the verbs by at least two. Add in the quarryman who really set the charges and the almost total lack of damage to the town from the explosion, and you should come to a more or less correct picture.”
“Correct perhaps, but so much less interesting. You make reading the newspapers sound like a mathematical exercise, and I was never very good at such things. Anything after the twelve times table and the rule of three and I am completely astray.”
The first requirement in taking a step in the right direction is to take a step in some direction. ~ Robert Brault
Some events are standard in P&P variations and those events are here also: a crisis from Wickham; a disgrace from Lydia; a delay from others not involved.
Like other books from Quills and Quartos, this began as an online favorite and has been proofread, edited, and now published as an offering to more readers. I read it quickly when I first received the ARC and just did a re-read to pick up some quotes. I swear I liked it even better with the second reading.
I loved this book!
Do not be wise in words — be wise in deeds. ~ Jewish Proverb
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Reading this book brought to mind an Andrew Davies interview from years ago. One point he made concerned our first sight of Darcy and Bingley galloping across the meadow toward Netherfield Park. Davies wanted to depict the characters as men of action rather than “drawing-room fops.”
“Lovers’ Meeting” begins with Elizabeth on a walk, considering the news that Netherfield Park is let at last.
Quote from the book: She wondered what her mother would do if this Mr. Bingley were unprincipled or riddled with some dreadful disease. She had barely determined that a mistress would probably not be an obstacle in her mother’s mind—although leprosy just might be —when her thoughts were interrupted by sudden, dreadful noises from the road, which lay about twenty yards away from her through the trees.
The dreadful noises are caused by a tragic accident with a cart filled with rock. As luck would have it, Fitzwilliam Darcy was also nearby and sprang into action, assisting the injured men and sending his groom for help. What a different meeting for our favorite lovers! Instead of “not handsome enough”, we read “It is a refreshing change indeed to meet such an intrepid young lady.” Perfect.
We cannot do everything at once, but we can do something at once. ~ Calvin Coolidge
Here is Darcy, an acknowledged hero to the town, plagued by what he sees as his imperfections and running a script of his father’s teachings through his head.
“A gentleman never grimaces, Fitzwilliam. His thoughts are his own.”
“A gentleman does not show anger, Fitzwilliam. I am seriously displeased.”
“A gentleman is never unappreciative, Fitzwilliam. Servants like to have their efforts noticed.”
“You belong to the land, just as much as the land belongs to you, Fitzwilliam. You owe it your best.”
“You are a Darcy, Fitzwilliam. Never forget your duty to that name. What I want, what you want are nothing. Duty is everything.”
If your work speaks for itself, don’t interrupt. ~ Henry J. Kaiser
Quote from the book: Suddenly, it was there, the anger he need no longer restrain, boiling through him, body and soul. He saw the man begin to form his usual defiant smirk and was off his horse and amidst them before he knew what he was doing. The smirk vanished; Wickham backed away, his eyes wide with alarm, his hands coming up in front of him.
Someone said, “Mr. Darcy!” as, with a single blow, he backhanded the swine off his feet and into the gutter.
Like I said, a man of action!
With all this helping here and helping there, you might think Darcy would not have the leisure to notice the second Bennet daughter. You would be wrong:
Quote from the book: He strode away, cursing his body’s betrayal. A little wit, a pair of big brown eyes, and there he was—strangled in his small clothes. Thank heaven for long coats. … He had to avoid her. It was only fair to her.
And the action keeps up. Darcy must visit his friend, Dicky Meopham, who is desperately ill.
Advice from Meopham: “Oh-ho, there’s a dangerous promise. Very well, I want you to find a pretty girl and dance with her. I want you to do three things you enjoy every day, and I want you to let yourself enjoy them. I want you to tell your relations to mind their own businesses, and I want you to find someone to talk to. Your trouble is, there’s no one in your life to tell you when you’re behaving like a gudgeon.”
Meopham asks for a final favor. How can doing his friend a favor lead to a charge of Criminal Conversation?
A loyal friend. A loving brother. What a great portrait of Darcy! But how can such a man make such a bungle of a proposal?
A journey home to Pemberley leads to another crisis: Lambton is flooded because a fallen tree has created a dam in the river. Once again, Darcy to the rescue.
Quote from the book: “Ah yes, Mr. Darcy, but which half am I supposed to believe in this instance?”
“Why the heroic, dashing part, of course,” said Fitzwilliam.
Darcy glowered at his cousin in mock displeasure. “I suggest, Miss Bennet, you start by disbelieving all the adjectives and dividing all the verbs by at least two. Add in the quarryman who really set the charges and the almost total lack of damage to the town from the explosion, and you should come to a more or less correct picture.”
“Correct perhaps, but so much less interesting. You make reading the newspapers sound like a mathematical exercise, and I was never very good at such things. Anything after the twelve times table and the rule of three and I am completely astray.”
The first requirement in taking a step in the right direction is to take a step in some direction. ~ Robert Brault
Some events are standard in P&P variations and those events are here also: a crisis from Wickham; a disgrace from Lydia; a delay from others not involved.
Like other books from Quills and Quartos, this began as an online favorite and has been proofread, edited, and now published as an offering to more readers. I read it quickly when I first received the ARC and just did a re-read to pick up some quotes. I swear I liked it even better with the second reading.
I loved this book!
Do not be wise in words — be wise in deeds. ~ Jewish Proverb
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2021
“What’s meant to be will always find a way.” –Trisha Yearwood
“Love is needing someone. Love is putting up with someone’s bad qualities because they somehow complete you.” –Sarah Dessen, This Lullaby
Rating clean: although adult themes discussed [->13]: There were a lot of things going on in this story. LA! At first, you don’t realize the significance of a thread until it appears again later. Then you realize just how important it was in moving the story forward. This Darcy was ‘Super Darcy’ and only he could see events to their completion. He had his hands in EVERYTHING and did everything himself. Was that presumptuous or just simply being diligent?
“A superhero is just an ordinary person who has found a better way to mask their human frailties.” –Stewart Stafford
Our dear couple met earlier than canon and with his rescue and help with one of their own, he was looked up to by the denizens of Meryton. Due to his heroic actions, he was touted by the gossip, and his reputation as a good man was established.
“Disappointments and humanity go hand in hand & there’s absolutely nothing we can do about it—other than taking the first step by setting an example ourselves but remember even Superman was hated by Lex Luthor (a ‘friend’ at first; a foe later).” –Sijdah Hussain, Red Sugar, No More
Our Darcy was a haunted man. Duty and honor were browbeaten into him by a harsh father. We also saw a VERY different relationship between the senior Darcy and Wickham. Of course, our resident SBRB didn’t see it that way and caused all manner of problems. However, not in the way of our canon account. Our author took a brilliant twist that I was shocked to see. That encounter in the streets of Meryton went a very different way and nipped in the bud Wickham’s schemes and lies.
“Just when you think it can’t get any worse, it can. And just when you think it can’t get any better, it can.” –Nicholas Sparks, At First Sight
Lydia: Our little harridan had to dredge up a scandal of a whole different kind in order to ruin herself and her family. Oh, Lydia, you foolish, foolish girl. Mrs. Bennet and her daughter received a reality check neither saw coming. I almost… almost felt sorry for Mrs. Bennet. She was completely in shock at Mr. Bennet’s behavior. She just didn’t understand his anger. This was not something we see in most JAFF. However, he had his own part in his family’s disgrace. It was a bitter pill for him to swallow.
“There is nothing I would not do for those who are really my friends. I have no notion of loving people by halves, it is not my nature.” –Jane Austen, Northanger Abbey
Caroline was almost a non-entity and yet was able to cause her own set of problems for our couples. Bingley was not best pleased with his sister. Lady Catherine was handled pretty much off the page. We heard about her tirade but didn’t see it. Whew! Although that left us without the DHP [Disastrous Hunsford Proposal] Darcy was still able to present his feeling in such a way that was just as horrid. It had our girl putting him in his place. You go Elizabeth! There was a flurry of letters back and forth between characters that presented feelings and descriptions of what was happening off the page. That was presented well.
I received an ARC from the publisher via Booksprout. The views expressed are my own. I highly recommend this for something completely different.
“Love is needing someone. Love is putting up with someone’s bad qualities because they somehow complete you.” –Sarah Dessen, This Lullaby
Rating clean: although adult themes discussed [->13]: There were a lot of things going on in this story. LA! At first, you don’t realize the significance of a thread until it appears again later. Then you realize just how important it was in moving the story forward. This Darcy was ‘Super Darcy’ and only he could see events to their completion. He had his hands in EVERYTHING and did everything himself. Was that presumptuous or just simply being diligent?
“A superhero is just an ordinary person who has found a better way to mask their human frailties.” –Stewart Stafford
Our dear couple met earlier than canon and with his rescue and help with one of their own, he was looked up to by the denizens of Meryton. Due to his heroic actions, he was touted by the gossip, and his reputation as a good man was established.
“Disappointments and humanity go hand in hand & there’s absolutely nothing we can do about it—other than taking the first step by setting an example ourselves but remember even Superman was hated by Lex Luthor (a ‘friend’ at first; a foe later).” –Sijdah Hussain, Red Sugar, No More
Our Darcy was a haunted man. Duty and honor were browbeaten into him by a harsh father. We also saw a VERY different relationship between the senior Darcy and Wickham. Of course, our resident SBRB didn’t see it that way and caused all manner of problems. However, not in the way of our canon account. Our author took a brilliant twist that I was shocked to see. That encounter in the streets of Meryton went a very different way and nipped in the bud Wickham’s schemes and lies.
“Just when you think it can’t get any worse, it can. And just when you think it can’t get any better, it can.” –Nicholas Sparks, At First Sight
Lydia: Our little harridan had to dredge up a scandal of a whole different kind in order to ruin herself and her family. Oh, Lydia, you foolish, foolish girl. Mrs. Bennet and her daughter received a reality check neither saw coming. I almost… almost felt sorry for Mrs. Bennet. She was completely in shock at Mr. Bennet’s behavior. She just didn’t understand his anger. This was not something we see in most JAFF. However, he had his own part in his family’s disgrace. It was a bitter pill for him to swallow.
“There is nothing I would not do for those who are really my friends. I have no notion of loving people by halves, it is not my nature.” –Jane Austen, Northanger Abbey
Caroline was almost a non-entity and yet was able to cause her own set of problems for our couples. Bingley was not best pleased with his sister. Lady Catherine was handled pretty much off the page. We heard about her tirade but didn’t see it. Whew! Although that left us without the DHP [Disastrous Hunsford Proposal] Darcy was still able to present his feeling in such a way that was just as horrid. It had our girl putting him in his place. You go Elizabeth! There was a flurry of letters back and forth between characters that presented feelings and descriptions of what was happening off the page. That was presented well.
I received an ARC from the publisher via Booksprout. The views expressed are my own. I highly recommend this for something completely different.
February 20, 2021
I am 99.94% certain that I read a version of this story on Fan fiction many years back. Regardless this is a wonderful story. Told from Darcy's perspective his visit to Meryton is less fraught with misunderstanding on his part at least and he determines that Miss Elizabeth must be the companion of his future life, alas he bumbles the proposal and flees Hertfordshire to visit a sick friend. Upon his return to Pemberley he is called about to perform some heroic deeds and save the village which brings him unwanted attention.
He and Lizzy are reunited outside of canon and he improves in her opinion. But things quickly go pear shaped with disasters on both sides there's a lot of angst before you get to HEA
He and Lizzy are reunited outside of canon and he improves in her opinion. But things quickly go pear shaped with disasters on both sides there's a lot of angst before you get to HEA
July 16, 2023
Just an excellent story
This story about Darcy and Lizzy becoming a couple was off canon but excellent nonetheless. They are too intelligent, honorable and kind individuals lonely because of the chaos of their families. As these two swans in a gaggle of geese find each other, true love grows.
One pretty interesting event toward the the book is somewhat out of place but really interesting. Darcy has been accused of some moral and financial chicanery and he must fight for his reputation and family name. It showed the workings of the law in Regency England.
Great story.
This story about Darcy and Lizzy becoming a couple was off canon but excellent nonetheless. They are too intelligent, honorable and kind individuals lonely because of the chaos of their families. As these two swans in a gaggle of geese find each other, true love grows.
One pretty interesting event toward the the book is somewhat out of place but really interesting. Darcy has been accused of some moral and financial chicanery and he must fight for his reputation and family name. It showed the workings of the law in Regency England.
Great story.
August 7, 2021
What if Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy met under different, more favorable circumstances? A new journey of love awaits this pair and those around them, but there is still enough of his pride and her prejudice to add a bit of spice to the story.
This is my second encounter with a Catherine Lodge Pride and Prejudice variation and I enjoy the tone of her writing, the development of her characters, and the sometimes exciting, suspenseful moments she infuses her mostly heartwarming and gently building historical romances.
Elizabeth is an intrepid young woman who is determined to marry for love. She is parts confident and parts vulnerable which is how I enjoy a heroine. Fitzwilliam Darcy confuses her because he is also not only one or the other. He is capable of great generosity and protects those who depend on him while also, at times, acting arrogantly above it all. At first, she isn’t interested in why, but she can’t get the man out of her thoughts especially when they constantly encounter each other. She can’t deny the attraction even when she is disgusted with his superior attitude.
Darcy was going through a huge identity crisis when the book starts out trying desperately to be exactly like his father. An old, dying friend is the one to make him really stop and think- one, that it isn’t possible to be someone else and he needed to live his own life and not his father’s, but, two, should he even try to emulate a man who had some deep flaws in the way he treated others. I loved seeing his road of discovery to be himself and to be a better man than he has been. This is the man who is able to win the love of a woman like Elizabeth, but he does have a few roadblocks even after he gets on the right path.
I loved the whole story, but I confess that I felt the pace and intensity slacken somewhat in the latter half until closer to the end when it picked up again. I liked that late sudden conflict that flared up and had to be resolved.
All in all, it was a sweet, well-developed historical romance variation on a classic. It read quickly and charmingly. I would recommend it to sweet historical romance lovers and those who enjoy stories based on classics.
I rec’d this book from Austenprose with the understanding that it be read in exchange for an honest review.
This is my second encounter with a Catherine Lodge Pride and Prejudice variation and I enjoy the tone of her writing, the development of her characters, and the sometimes exciting, suspenseful moments she infuses her mostly heartwarming and gently building historical romances.
Elizabeth is an intrepid young woman who is determined to marry for love. She is parts confident and parts vulnerable which is how I enjoy a heroine. Fitzwilliam Darcy confuses her because he is also not only one or the other. He is capable of great generosity and protects those who depend on him while also, at times, acting arrogantly above it all. At first, she isn’t interested in why, but she can’t get the man out of her thoughts especially when they constantly encounter each other. She can’t deny the attraction even when she is disgusted with his superior attitude.
Darcy was going through a huge identity crisis when the book starts out trying desperately to be exactly like his father. An old, dying friend is the one to make him really stop and think- one, that it isn’t possible to be someone else and he needed to live his own life and not his father’s, but, two, should he even try to emulate a man who had some deep flaws in the way he treated others. I loved seeing his road of discovery to be himself and to be a better man than he has been. This is the man who is able to win the love of a woman like Elizabeth, but he does have a few roadblocks even after he gets on the right path.
I loved the whole story, but I confess that I felt the pace and intensity slacken somewhat in the latter half until closer to the end when it picked up again. I liked that late sudden conflict that flared up and had to be resolved.
All in all, it was a sweet, well-developed historical romance variation on a classic. It read quickly and charmingly. I would recommend it to sweet historical romance lovers and those who enjoy stories based on classics.
I rec’d this book from Austenprose with the understanding that it be read in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2021
What If a Dutiful and Burdened Mr. Darcy Found His Own Path?
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
THE PREMISE: After selflessly and adeptly coming to the aide of a local denizen of Meryton, Mr. Darcy makes a tolerably better first impression on Elizabeth Bennet and the other inhabitants of the neighborhood. But deep down Mr. Darcy struggles to become a worthy man as he sheds the stringent strictures of his father, the unhappiness of his childhood, and the oppressive burden of duty…
MY THOUGHTS:
I love me a heroic Darcy! And I love how Ms. Lodge sympathetically developed Mr. Darcy’s character in this story. From his compassionate and capable actions helping those in need to his difficult upbringing and depression – there are several new dimensions of Darcy’s character and history that are fleshed out in this story. And each is plausibly conceived and matches well with the Mr. Darcy readers already know. I very much enjoyed this portrayal of a Mr. Darcy trying to find his own footing in life. I loved seeing his vulnerability and flaws, but I especially loved witnessing his numerous services towards others and his talent for playing the violin!
Another element of this story I greatly enjoyed was the novelty of Elizabeth not immediately forming a negative impression of Mr. Darcy. I loved seeing her admire his actions, gently befriend him through his awkward discomfort, and slowly lose her heart to him. I also loved the moments where Elizabeth displays her fierce love for Darcy with either actions or words. Elizabeth’s great capacity for love is one of the things we love best about her, and it was lovely to see Mr. Darcy on the receiving end of that devotion and affection, instead of receiving her sharp barbs and disapproval.
And lastly, I enjoyed the slightly familiar yet largely unique course Ms. Lodge steered this story through. Readers will see all the events they know well, like the Meryton Assembly, Mr. Darcy meeting Mr. Wickham in town, and Elizabeth’s visit to Kent, but each has a different twist to it. Which gives the story a very fresh and unpredictable feel. However, there were a few twists that felt like they needed either some more development or stronger connection to the overall arc to the story. I really enjoyed the new original character of Darcy’s friend Dicky Meopham, and I enjoyed observing his relationship with and influence on Darcy. But at times it did feel like this storyline was abruptly inserted and missing some details.
Lovers’ Meeting is an inspiring and captivating Pride and Prejudice variation with many thoughtfully-composed twists and a strong focus on the emotional journey and self-improvement of Mr. Darcy. Catherine Lodge’s skillful storytelling and creativity shine in this tale of finding happiness, finding love, and forging your own way.
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
THE PREMISE: After selflessly and adeptly coming to the aide of a local denizen of Meryton, Mr. Darcy makes a tolerably better first impression on Elizabeth Bennet and the other inhabitants of the neighborhood. But deep down Mr. Darcy struggles to become a worthy man as he sheds the stringent strictures of his father, the unhappiness of his childhood, and the oppressive burden of duty…
MY THOUGHTS:
I love me a heroic Darcy! And I love how Ms. Lodge sympathetically developed Mr. Darcy’s character in this story. From his compassionate and capable actions helping those in need to his difficult upbringing and depression – there are several new dimensions of Darcy’s character and history that are fleshed out in this story. And each is plausibly conceived and matches well with the Mr. Darcy readers already know. I very much enjoyed this portrayal of a Mr. Darcy trying to find his own footing in life. I loved seeing his vulnerability and flaws, but I especially loved witnessing his numerous services towards others and his talent for playing the violin!
Another element of this story I greatly enjoyed was the novelty of Elizabeth not immediately forming a negative impression of Mr. Darcy. I loved seeing her admire his actions, gently befriend him through his awkward discomfort, and slowly lose her heart to him. I also loved the moments where Elizabeth displays her fierce love for Darcy with either actions or words. Elizabeth’s great capacity for love is one of the things we love best about her, and it was lovely to see Mr. Darcy on the receiving end of that devotion and affection, instead of receiving her sharp barbs and disapproval.
And lastly, I enjoyed the slightly familiar yet largely unique course Ms. Lodge steered this story through. Readers will see all the events they know well, like the Meryton Assembly, Mr. Darcy meeting Mr. Wickham in town, and Elizabeth’s visit to Kent, but each has a different twist to it. Which gives the story a very fresh and unpredictable feel. However, there were a few twists that felt like they needed either some more development or stronger connection to the overall arc to the story. I really enjoyed the new original character of Darcy’s friend Dicky Meopham, and I enjoyed observing his relationship with and influence on Darcy. But at times it did feel like this storyline was abruptly inserted and missing some details.
Lovers’ Meeting is an inspiring and captivating Pride and Prejudice variation with many thoughtfully-composed twists and a strong focus on the emotional journey and self-improvement of Mr. Darcy. Catherine Lodge’s skillful storytelling and creativity shine in this tale of finding happiness, finding love, and forging your own way.
Austenesque Reviews
March 2, 2022
Good Story
”Trip no further, pretty sweeting
Journey’s end in Lovers’ meeting
Every wise man’s son doth know.”
—Shakespeare, Twelfth Night
A different beginning for Darcy and Elizabeth when they meet at the scene of an accident near Longbourn, and they both render aid. Darcy takes charge and displays leadership, kindness, and compassion towards the injured, as does Elizabeth. Consequently, they both come away with favourable impressions of one another, and Darcy earns the respect of neighbours.
With every subsequent meeting with Elizabeth, Darcy is more and more enthralled. From his youth, inculcated with a sense of duty and pride for his family name by his father, he feels he cannot marry beneath him, especially after meeting her family.
There is a momentous twist given to the usual encounter between Darcy and Wickham in Meryton. That was quite epic in my opinion! Well done! Darcy is ashamed however.
Of course there’s Lydia, poor stupid Lydia, although she seemed more innocent in this story and I rather felt sorry for the uneducated child she really is.
I enjoyed the subtle humour in places.
Mr. B. —“Perhaps he might prefer my Lizzy. He was quite taken with her intrepidity.”
Mrs. B.—“Well, she ought to have kept it better covered.”
March 2, 2022 - Audiobook
This is such a good story. I truly loved the portrayals of ODC in this variation. David Pickering is always excellent.
”Trip no further, pretty sweeting
Journey’s end in Lovers’ meeting
Every wise man’s son doth know.”
—Shakespeare, Twelfth Night
A different beginning for Darcy and Elizabeth when they meet at the scene of an accident near Longbourn, and they both render aid. Darcy takes charge and displays leadership, kindness, and compassion towards the injured, as does Elizabeth. Consequently, they both come away with favourable impressions of one another, and Darcy earns the respect of neighbours.
With every subsequent meeting with Elizabeth, Darcy is more and more enthralled. From his youth, inculcated with a sense of duty and pride for his family name by his father, he feels he cannot marry beneath him, especially after meeting her family.
There is a momentous twist given to the usual encounter between Darcy and Wickham in Meryton. That was quite epic in my opinion! Well done! Darcy is ashamed however.
Of course there’s Lydia, poor stupid Lydia, although she seemed more innocent in this story and I rather felt sorry for the uneducated child she really is.
I enjoyed the subtle humour in places.
Mr. B. —“Perhaps he might prefer my Lizzy. He was quite taken with her intrepidity.”
Mrs. B.—“Well, she ought to have kept it better covered.”
March 2, 2022 - Audiobook
This is such a good story. I truly loved the portrayals of ODC in this variation. David Pickering is always excellent.
February 7, 2021
Probably closer to a 3.5. This book had kind of a dark and melancholy feeling hanging over it, especially surrounding Darcy, for much of the first half that I had not expected. I liked this book, but I feel my expectations may have been too high. The love story was good, and there was a lot of page time with ODC, but it could have been better balanced with some of the other characters. I felt like many aspects of the story were underdeveloped or incomplete. Jane and Bingley kind of vanished for the most part, and I really missed the special bond between Jane and Elizabeth and couldn’t figure out why Elizabeth was an island unto herself. The whole thing with Mr. Bennet towards the end seemed very strange too. It just came out of nowhere and didn’t feel like it fit. Mr. Bennet suddenly transforms from lifelong apathy and indolence to almost violently abusive at the switch of a light. The sentiment is understandable given the circumstances, but it doesn’t fit the character as he had been portrayed. The fallout from the situation once again felt glazed over and incomplete.
While I was a bit disappointed, there were many things to be enjoyed as well.
While I was a bit disappointed, there were many things to be enjoyed as well.
February 10, 2021
After reading so many fantastic reviews for this story, I couldn't wait to read it.
There was something nuanced about the quality of writing, which I could not connect with. It was very artistic, but got in the way of the story itself.
Which at times left me feeling there was a lack of depth in the first place.
I will say that I liked that most of the POV was from Darcy and consistent.
There was something nuanced about the quality of writing, which I could not connect with. It was very artistic, but got in the way of the story itself.
Which at times left me feeling there was a lack of depth in the first place.
I will say that I liked that most of the POV was from Darcy and consistent.
February 24, 2021
3.5 stars
May contain spoilers
What I liked:
* The beginning was great.
* Understanding Darcy better and watching his growth.
* The writing itself was very good.
* The way canon happenings were interwoven with the original plot and information wasn't unnecessarily repeated.
* Liked the extra details and trivia bits about the era.
* Liked that Wickham was sort of dealt with in the beginning
Didn't like
* Lizzy felt bland, she was written more like Jane. I didn't feel her teasing, banter or sense of humor.
* Because we haven't seen much of the romance in the beginning I didn't understand why Darcy fell in love with Elizabeth, it felt too sudden.
* Some weird sub plot that made the story into a letter novel and then (too) suddenly all was resolved.
* ODC got together in the middle of the book and the rest of the story was just obstacles and circumstantial happenings that got in the way of the wedding.
* After the first "pride" conflict was resolved half way through the book, there was no inherent conflict to overcome. For example when Darcy excluded Elizabeth from his troubles and she persisted, it could have developed to a true understanding of character and it just fell flat.
* I didn't appreciate Elizabeth's meekness. It was partially explained that the men felt uncomfortable discussing business in front of her but her only attempt to convince Darcy to stay and help was kissing him and using her "feminine wiles". Then later she is the one with the answer to all his trouble and I got even more annoyed.
So the writing was good and Darcy was deep though slightly annoying and Lizzy was very annoying. The plot wasn't my cup of tea.
May contain spoilers
What I liked:
* The beginning was great.
* Understanding Darcy better and watching his growth.
* The writing itself was very good.
* The way canon happenings were interwoven with the original plot and information wasn't unnecessarily repeated.
* Liked the extra details and trivia bits about the era.
* Liked that Wickham was sort of dealt with in the beginning
Didn't like
* Lizzy felt bland, she was written more like Jane. I didn't feel her teasing, banter or sense of humor.
* Because we haven't seen much of the romance in the beginning I didn't understand why Darcy fell in love with Elizabeth, it felt too sudden.
* Some weird sub plot that made the story into a letter novel and then (too) suddenly all was resolved.
* ODC got together in the middle of the book and the rest of the story was just obstacles and circumstantial happenings that got in the way of the wedding.
* After the first "pride" conflict was resolved half way through the book, there was no inherent conflict to overcome. For example when Darcy excluded Elizabeth from his troubles and she persisted, it could have developed to a true understanding of character and it just fell flat.
* I didn't appreciate Elizabeth's meekness. It was partially explained that the men felt uncomfortable discussing business in front of her but her only attempt to convince Darcy to stay and help was kissing him and using her "feminine wiles". Then later she is the one with the answer to all his trouble and I got even more annoyed.
So the writing was good and Darcy was deep though slightly annoying and Lizzy was very annoying. The plot wasn't my cup of tea.
December 19, 2021
Enjoyable
A rather lovely and interesting little variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Catherine Lodge.
A rather lovely and interesting little variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Catherine Lodge.
February 1, 2021
One of the reasons I so adore Austenesque variations is the sense of choosing your own adventure and seeing how outcomes change under a wide variety of circumstances. It is, of course, not a luxury we are afforded in real life, and that makes it so much more enjoyable in our imaginations and with our favorite characters. Lovers' Meeting is a Pride and Prejudice variation that ponders what might have happened if the lovers had met before the disastrous Meryton assembly. What if they had different first impressions of each other? I enjoyed how this story kept our dear couple's personalities consistent with canon, and showed how their inherent traits would persuade them and prejudice them in similar ways, but also surprising ones. There are some unique, yet credible, plot twists. I absolutely adored witnessing the evolution and awakening of the dutiful Mr. Darcy. This is a richly satisfying tale!
March 8, 2021
Lodge has a gift for making tender interactions between lovers *breathe* with just the right bits of tenderness and passion—-and serving them up as the culmination of many “lover’s meetings” that built the relationship into one of regard, respect, admiration, and then, longing. I’ll say the latter chapters of this book draw out the “longing” part, but some readers love that sort of sweet torture. I’m giving it a rounded-up 4.7, just because I’m the kind of JAFF reader who struggles with that type of extended angst!
March 6, 2023
Тримайте мої чотири зірочки, бо мені дуже боліло за обтяженого обов'язками Дарсі без жодної втіхи в житті і як він не дозволяє собі жодної радості.
Рівно те, що я люблю: гарно збалансований ангст, після якого настає розрада.
Окрема подяка за спільну музичність брата і сестри Дарсі та їхню любов до математики.
Рівно те, що я люблю: гарно збалансований ангст, після якого настає розрада.
Окрема подяка за спільну музичність брата і сестри Дарсі та їхню любов до математики.
April 7, 2021
After some quite frankly awful JAFF experiences lately I was very hopeful after 30 pages or so. Good solid writing, Darcy's POV, fairly unique depiction of Darcy who is lost and overwhelmed and trying his hardest to be a carbon copy of his father. Only he is not and it's making him miserable and confused and has pushed him to the edge of a depression.
"He was conscious that his temper was only thinly held and, after dinner, escaped to the billiard room with Bingley, who was a wretched player but at least was not interested in marrying him."
The premise is basically observing him as he tries to swim his way out of his mental mud, with a help from his friends, family and some extreme events.
So the beginning is anything but light and perky. Still, the author pulled it off well and I enjoyed the slow process of Darcy becoming more self-aware and empathetic.
Elizabeth, at least in the beginning, is almost a side character, becoming more-and more fleshed out as Darcy gradually learns to look beyond himself and his own motivations.
"He could see Elizabeth out of the corner of his eye as he spoke to her sister, and he felt as though a jug of warm water had been poured over his head, heat crawling over his scalp and down his back."
At about 80% I was quite convinced I would give it 4.5 if not 5 stars, even though I occasionally felt that author just kept piling up too many issues and threads onto the narrative. But it was enjoyable, occasionally humorous.
“It is a wedding present from my great-uncle Darcy.”
He sighed.
“I think it is an epergne, but it is certainly nothing one could have on one’s dining table. Whichever way you turn it, someone is going to spend their entire meal staring at an elephant’s hindquarters.”
At about 82% something else is dropped onto a table and suddenly people start acting out of character and also making decision that, to me at least, did not make much sense. Something has been set up, our couple (for reasons that do not make sense) delay the wedding and have to spend some time apart (also doesn't really compute with me). So there's a chapter of letters.
And then everything is suddenly resolved and the protagonists are immediately reunited and everything is wrapped up super fast as if the writer just got fed up at the end.
It didn't totally kill the book for me but it was enough to take the star of half off.
"He was conscious that his temper was only thinly held and, after dinner, escaped to the billiard room with Bingley, who was a wretched player but at least was not interested in marrying him."
The premise is basically observing him as he tries to swim his way out of his mental mud, with a help from his friends, family and some extreme events.
So the beginning is anything but light and perky. Still, the author pulled it off well and I enjoyed the slow process of Darcy becoming more self-aware and empathetic.
Elizabeth, at least in the beginning, is almost a side character, becoming more-and more fleshed out as Darcy gradually learns to look beyond himself and his own motivations.
"He could see Elizabeth out of the corner of his eye as he spoke to her sister, and he felt as though a jug of warm water had been poured over his head, heat crawling over his scalp and down his back."
At about 80% I was quite convinced I would give it 4.5 if not 5 stars, even though I occasionally felt that author just kept piling up too many issues and threads onto the narrative. But it was enjoyable, occasionally humorous.
“It is a wedding present from my great-uncle Darcy.”
He sighed.
“I think it is an epergne, but it is certainly nothing one could have on one’s dining table. Whichever way you turn it, someone is going to spend their entire meal staring at an elephant’s hindquarters.”
At about 82% something else is dropped onto a table and suddenly people start acting out of character and also making decision that, to me at least, did not make much sense. Something has been set up, our couple (for reasons that do not make sense) delay the wedding and have to spend some time apart (also doesn't really compute with me). So there's a chapter of letters.
And then everything is suddenly resolved and the protagonists are immediately reunited and everything is wrapped up super fast as if the writer just got fed up at the end.
It didn't totally kill the book for me but it was enough to take the star of half off.
July 5, 2021
Nicely written, interesting plot but I wasn’t charmed by this Darcy.
Not because he was depressed - I thought that rather interesting - but probably because he seemed too perceptive about his own situation and progress, which sounded a bit hard to believe. That’s why I gave up after a while. I couldn’t connect with this Darcy.
And also I don’t like to know too much about what the characters think. Show, don’t tell.
Not because he was depressed - I thought that rather interesting - but probably because he seemed too perceptive about his own situation and progress, which sounded a bit hard to believe. That’s why I gave up after a while. I couldn’t connect with this Darcy.
And also I don’t like to know too much about what the characters think. Show, don’t tell.
November 3, 2022
While I liked the changes at the beginning, I feel like it dragged. Doesn’t really stand out in the overwhelming amount of JAFF I’ve read, but I understand how bias that might be. Was well written enough.
March 14, 2023
I agree with other reviewers
…this is a solid story that keeps your attention enjoyably until it disintegrates to an abrupt end that does not do justice to the rest of the book.
…this is a solid story that keeps your attention enjoyably until it disintegrates to an abrupt end that does not do justice to the rest of the book.
February 16, 2021
The evolution of the characters, especially Darcy, really made this an outstanding read.
December 3, 2022
I finished this story some time ago, I found it very nice.
In this story, Mr Darcy is proud but is also benevolent. The story starts with a cart accident where Elizabeth comes to help and signals Mr Darcy' s carriage for assistance. He tries his utmost to rescue a child that was in the cart, meanwhile Lizzy brings the surgeon from Meryton.
After this good deed, Mr Darcy is considered a hero and a very decent man among the Meryton people, even if he dances with no local ladies at the assembly. He starts on a different foot so people know of his good nature and are willing to pardon his hateur.
The story is mainly from Mr Darcy's point of view. The beginning is from Elizabeth's as well but we don't know what's in her mind in the middle until the last third of the book.
He also doesn't insult Lizzy, and she, having met him several times after the cart incident, is inclined to think well of him.
They meet in the woods at one time when Lizzy was on a stroll, Mr Darcy's horse had thrown a shoe… he is talking to her and has an unexpected bodily reaction that embarrassed him, so he makes his excuses and scurries off. 😂 You can see he is a man of flesh and bone, hot blooded no less, but even when he is fascinated with Elizabeth, Mr Darcy leaves before the Netherfield ball.
Mr Bingley becomes Jane's betrothed much sooner.
I don't want to spoil it too much, so I'll comment in general terms.
Wickham receives a lesson, even if he comes back for revenge (I'm sure we all wanted that in canon).
Miss Bingley is her usual nasty self.
ODC spend half of the book engaged but have lots of difficulties on the way and have to wait a long time to get married, there is a new foe and creates a scandal for the money, and at one time I totally sided with Elizabeth even if I understood he was trying to protect her.
There are sweet moments, very romantic but not overly explicit…only kisses but we have references to Mr Darcy's dreams, not at all chaste.
There is a sort of epilogue on the last part of the last chapter though I would have liked to see the wedding.
Anyway, very good story, very well written. Recommended!
In this story, Mr Darcy is proud but is also benevolent. The story starts with a cart accident where Elizabeth comes to help and signals Mr Darcy' s carriage for assistance. He tries his utmost to rescue a child that was in the cart, meanwhile Lizzy brings the surgeon from Meryton.
After this good deed, Mr Darcy is considered a hero and a very decent man among the Meryton people, even if he dances with no local ladies at the assembly. He starts on a different foot so people know of his good nature and are willing to pardon his hateur.
The story is mainly from Mr Darcy's point of view. The beginning is from Elizabeth's as well but we don't know what's in her mind in the middle until the last third of the book.
He also doesn't insult Lizzy, and she, having met him several times after the cart incident, is inclined to think well of him.
They meet in the woods at one time when Lizzy was on a stroll, Mr Darcy's horse had thrown a shoe… he is talking to her and has an unexpected bodily reaction that embarrassed him, so he makes his excuses and scurries off. 😂 You can see he is a man of flesh and bone, hot blooded no less, but even when he is fascinated with Elizabeth, Mr Darcy leaves before the Netherfield ball.
Mr Bingley becomes Jane's betrothed much sooner.
I don't want to spoil it too much, so I'll comment in general terms.
Wickham receives a lesson, even if he comes back for revenge (I'm sure we all wanted that in canon).
Miss Bingley is her usual nasty self.
ODC spend half of the book engaged but have lots of difficulties on the way and have to wait a long time to get married, there is a new foe and creates a scandal for the money, and at one time I totally sided with Elizabeth even if I understood he was trying to protect her.
There are sweet moments, very romantic but not overly explicit…only kisses but we have references to Mr Darcy's dreams, not at all chaste.
There is a sort of epilogue on the last part of the last chapter though I would have liked to see the wedding.
Anyway, very good story, very well written. Recommended!
February 4, 2021
A very introspective Darcy
This book is made interesting by endowing Darcy, who is usually supremely confident and in charge, with deep vulnerability and uncertainty, resulting in depression early in the story. He arrives in Hertfordshire in the usual way, attends the assembly, but does not make the insulting statement about Elizabeth. There is the usual incident with Jane being invited to Netherfield by Caroline Bingley, falling ill, and Elizabeth coming to nurse her, during which time Darcy starts to reluctantly fall in love. Shortly thereafter, on the day that Darcy and Bingley ride into Meryton and see Wickham speaking with the Bennett ladies, Darcy's depression make him snap, and he publicly confronts and humiliates Wickham, and warns the townspeople against him. This is, of course, completely out of character for Darcy, and he is deeply embarrassed by his actions, even while he is being hailed as a hero by the people of Meryton. Darcy decides to leave town, and try to figure out why he's so depressed and angry.
It's refreshing to have a variation wherein Darcy deals so directly with Wickham instead of the usual tight lipped approach, even though that isn't the last that we hear from Wickham. It's also refreshing and heartwarming to have this kind of a struggling Darcy, one who knows there's something important that he's missing, some reason that his life isn't going as well as it should, in spite of all his material wealth and privilege. Fortunately, Darcy has a close friend, who unfortunately is dying, but who gives him some words of wisdom on his deathbed that seem to inspire Darcy to better things. The profound insight he eventually reaches is that he's always tried to be like his father, but that his father wasn't that great of a role model. He determines that he will be a better man.
Meanwhile, Darcy bungles a proposal to Elizabeth, has his second chance, and finally wins her. But the author has decided that there will be one serious obstacle after another thrown into their path to happiness. However, in his swoon worthy way, Darcy can overcome all troubles as long as he knows that he's got Elizabeth by his side. The romance is wonderful, both Elizabeth and Darcy are wonderful, and because of Darcy's initial vulnerability, we're cheering for them all the way.
My only reservation was about the abrupt ending. ODC get their HEA, but it seems to wrap up too quickly, without any epilogue, just a brief summary at the end. After the wonderful storytelling and plot development throughout the book, it seemed unfinished. I think it needed another chapter.
Nonetheless, the book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
This book is made interesting by endowing Darcy, who is usually supremely confident and in charge, with deep vulnerability and uncertainty, resulting in depression early in the story. He arrives in Hertfordshire in the usual way, attends the assembly, but does not make the insulting statement about Elizabeth. There is the usual incident with Jane being invited to Netherfield by Caroline Bingley, falling ill, and Elizabeth coming to nurse her, during which time Darcy starts to reluctantly fall in love. Shortly thereafter, on the day that Darcy and Bingley ride into Meryton and see Wickham speaking with the Bennett ladies, Darcy's depression make him snap, and he publicly confronts and humiliates Wickham, and warns the townspeople against him. This is, of course, completely out of character for Darcy, and he is deeply embarrassed by his actions, even while he is being hailed as a hero by the people of Meryton. Darcy decides to leave town, and try to figure out why he's so depressed and angry.
It's refreshing to have a variation wherein Darcy deals so directly with Wickham instead of the usual tight lipped approach, even though that isn't the last that we hear from Wickham. It's also refreshing and heartwarming to have this kind of a struggling Darcy, one who knows there's something important that he's missing, some reason that his life isn't going as well as it should, in spite of all his material wealth and privilege. Fortunately, Darcy has a close friend, who unfortunately is dying, but who gives him some words of wisdom on his deathbed that seem to inspire Darcy to better things. The profound insight he eventually reaches is that he's always tried to be like his father, but that his father wasn't that great of a role model. He determines that he will be a better man.
Meanwhile, Darcy bungles a proposal to Elizabeth, has his second chance, and finally wins her. But the author has decided that there will be one serious obstacle after another thrown into their path to happiness. However, in his swoon worthy way, Darcy can overcome all troubles as long as he knows that he's got Elizabeth by his side. The romance is wonderful, both Elizabeth and Darcy are wonderful, and because of Darcy's initial vulnerability, we're cheering for them all the way.
My only reservation was about the abrupt ending. ODC get their HEA, but it seems to wrap up too quickly, without any epilogue, just a brief summary at the end. After the wonderful storytelling and plot development throughout the book, it seemed unfinished. I think it needed another chapter.
Nonetheless, the book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
September 2, 2025
A different depressed Darcy here.. The writing was ok, but it was all pointless once Elizabeth accepted Darcy's proposal. There were just scene after scene with no substance. Then, everything went sideways at 80%. We suddenly have a random side plot of someone accusing Darcy of affair with his wife (Elizabeth or anyone from her family don't even believe it for 1 minute) and discussions regarding that drama, which contributed nothing to the plot, as all the characters involved in this were OC. Darcy's actions also annoyed me, as he himself decided to postpone wedding even though Elizabeth didn't want to & argue against it, his decision was final. No one even involved her in the discussions about the case, even Darcy, apparently its too much for lady's ear (even though previously Darcy claims how Elizabeth will be a partner with whom he can discuss anything). While it's going, since its upsetting for her, she is sent away to some other estate with the family as though she is some distressed kid. Elizabeth also meekly goes now. While this was going, i thought the plot was going to about Darcy's high handedness and Elizabeth getting angry about her treatment, but no, its all treated as though its perfectly alright. When Darcy refused to even consider marrying in that planned date, i honestly expected Elizabeth to tell him to f off and leave him honestly. I'd have been happy if she did that but nope. Darcy also refuses to tell Elizabeth about Georgiana's elopement incident when it comes up regarding this case (even though they are engaged to marry in few days) and Elizabeth had to go and ask Georgiana. Darcy had no problem finding Elizabeth's family's personal struggles, from letter Jane wrote to Bingley and inserting himself by directly going to Elizabeth and confronting her (this is after the she rejected his proposal), but somehow he won't share his family's secrets with her. After 80%, its as though someone else wrote the book and the characters were completely unrecognisable as D or E. The ending was also too abrupt, D & E are engaged at around halfway point, but after dragging it for so long the book actually doesn't show their wedding. It just shows them discussing marrying in few days and ends abruptly. What even is the point of the later half, if not showing the wedding?
Honestly i wish i could remove the last 20% and pretend the book ended at 80%. Seeing as the 20% didn't even give a nice ending, by stopping at that point there is nothing to miss.
Honestly i wish i could remove the last 20% and pretend the book ended at 80%. Seeing as the 20% didn't even give a nice ending, by stopping at that point there is nothing to miss.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2022
This was a lovely story that begins with Darcy & Elizabeth making a good impression on one another. So sweet to watch as they become important to one another. Misunderstandings occur, but aren’t long & drawn out. Once they’re betrothed, Darcy insists that Lizzy communicate with him; she begins to turn to him to discuss her worries in life.
I did feel the story dragged a little during their separation & letter writing period. My chief complaint is that after a long, drawn out legal problem (and pining & wishing for their wedding day), the obstacle is removed suddenly & Darcy rides to Elizabeth, joyful reunion, and we’re told they lived happily ever after & how many children they went on to have. We didn’t even get to see the very much anticipated wedding! I feel ripped off! Also, it seems strange that the author included D&E becoming physically aware of desiring one another, yet did not include a vague, nondescriptive scene of their wedding night. They longed for one another emotionally and physically (tastefully written) - so why no indication of them finally being able to be close as a husband & wife. It’s not that I want to read a sex scene, but since desire is mentioned many times in the book, I at least wanted them waking up in each other’s arms & feeling closer than they ever imagined possible. Author raised expectations & left me with disappointed hopes.
*********
I just went back & listened to the last chapter to see if I accidentally skipped ahead or something. Nope!
3.5 stars. Trouble deciding on rounding up or down. The whole story was wonderful, but it built up to a conclusion that never happened. I feel a little like I did when I reached the end of Wives and Daughters by Elizabeth Gaskell Cleghorn. It was originally published as a serial, and SHE DIED BEFORE FINISHING THE LAST INSTALLMENT! I remember being upset & telling my husband there should’ve been a warning on the cover or first page. We know our H&h are finally coming together for their HEA, but are denied that beautiful, soul satisfying scene. It is still a favorite that I’ve reread. I imagine them running into each other’s arms, or maybe just a quiet and long hug. I do long to know how EGC would have brought it to life.
I did feel the story dragged a little during their separation & letter writing period. My chief complaint is that after a long, drawn out legal problem (and pining & wishing for their wedding day), the obstacle is removed suddenly & Darcy rides to Elizabeth, joyful reunion, and we’re told they lived happily ever after & how many children they went on to have. We didn’t even get to see the very much anticipated wedding! I feel ripped off! Also, it seems strange that the author included D&E becoming physically aware of desiring one another, yet did not include a vague, nondescriptive scene of their wedding night. They longed for one another emotionally and physically (tastefully written) - so why no indication of them finally being able to be close as a husband & wife. It’s not that I want to read a sex scene, but since desire is mentioned many times in the book, I at least wanted them waking up in each other’s arms & feeling closer than they ever imagined possible. Author raised expectations & left me with disappointed hopes.
*********
I just went back & listened to the last chapter to see if I accidentally skipped ahead or something. Nope!
3.5 stars. Trouble deciding on rounding up or down. The whole story was wonderful, but it built up to a conclusion that never happened. I feel a little like I did when I reached the end of Wives and Daughters by Elizabeth Gaskell Cleghorn. It was originally published as a serial, and SHE DIED BEFORE FINISHING THE LAST INSTALLMENT! I remember being upset & telling my husband there should’ve been a warning on the cover or first page. We know our H&h are finally coming together for their HEA, but are denied that beautiful, soul satisfying scene. It is still a favorite that I’ve reread. I imagine them running into each other’s arms, or maybe just a quiet and long hug. I do long to know how EGC would have brought it to life.
February 24, 2021
4.5 stars. The other reviewers give a great brief summary of the plot for the book. I would look there if thats what you seek.
Overall a really great and interesting story. I enjoyed reading the book and I loved the parts between Darcy and Elizabeth. Took off a 0.5-1 stars for following reasons:
— When Darcy pretty much excludes Elizabeth from a major issue/troubles that comes up towards the end of the book, and even sends her away, it was most disappointing. Here was a chance to show them work together and stay strong. Give each other strength and support. The letters back and forth were very sweet and enjoyable to read. But it would have been so much better if Darcy accepted Elizabeth as a person that he could rely on during troubling times rather than send her away until the troubles are dealt with. This could have leas ODC to gain better understanding of each other and strengthen their relationship.
— Elizabeth being meek and essentially accepting that she had to leave while Darcy left also showed she wasn’t as strong of a person. Her only attempt to try to convince Darcy to stay was barely even an attempt. Where was her persistence? Her determination to stay by his side? Where was her courage to help her fight through Darcy’s way of thought that it’s best if she were to leave temporarily?
— Didn’t see much of Elizabeth’s wit and humour. Could have added so much more to the book, especially in parts where Darcy or Georgianna needed to be drawn out. Instead, we’re more or less “told” rather than “shown” that this happened
Overall a really great and interesting story. I enjoyed reading the book and I loved the parts between Darcy and Elizabeth. Took off a 0.5-1 stars for following reasons:
— When Darcy pretty much excludes Elizabeth from a major issue/troubles that comes up towards the end of the book, and even sends her away, it was most disappointing. Here was a chance to show them work together and stay strong. Give each other strength and support. The letters back and forth were very sweet and enjoyable to read. But it would have been so much better if Darcy accepted Elizabeth as a person that he could rely on during troubling times rather than send her away until the troubles are dealt with. This could have leas ODC to gain better understanding of each other and strengthen their relationship.
— Elizabeth being meek and essentially accepting that she had to leave while Darcy left also showed she wasn’t as strong of a person. Her only attempt to try to convince Darcy to stay was barely even an attempt. Where was her persistence? Her determination to stay by his side? Where was her courage to help her fight through Darcy’s way of thought that it’s best if she were to leave temporarily?
— Didn’t see much of Elizabeth’s wit and humour. Could have added so much more to the book, especially in parts where Darcy or Georgianna needed to be drawn out. Instead, we’re more or less “told” rather than “shown” that this happened
June 20, 2021
The beginning was promising.
Darcy uses his habit of command to excellent effect, after a serious carriage accident occurs on his arrival in Meryton. He directs people to help and uses his intelligence, compassion, and ability to act quickly and decisively. This is witnessed by Elizabeth Bennet and others, making the entire town's initial opinion of him, very favourable.
Darcy is suffering from depression after the death of his father, which left him trying to fill shoes that do not fit him. By trying to emulate his father's way of life, and by focusing solely on the work of estate management and various duties to family and friends, all while doing his best to remedy the damage and debts created by Wickham, Darcy has forgotten how to enjoy life and is close to despair. This was very well written, and I liked this version of Darcy.
However, the author still has Darcy offend Elizabeth in much the same way as he did in P&P, which I thought was a bit much on top of all these new demons he now has to face, and Elizabeth is equally as unforgiving as in P&P (even though she has seen his better qualities, so this was a bit harsh, I felt).
After some agonising, they find their way to each other of course, but then there is an overlong - and what I felt to be entirely unneccessary - period of separation where we read letters back and forth between our couple, before they get their HEA.
This is not a bad vagary, nor a really amazing one that will live in my mind for years, but it's better than much of the JAFF out there. Nevertheless, I will probably not revisit it.
Darcy uses his habit of command to excellent effect, after a serious carriage accident occurs on his arrival in Meryton. He directs people to help and uses his intelligence, compassion, and ability to act quickly and decisively. This is witnessed by Elizabeth Bennet and others, making the entire town's initial opinion of him, very favourable.
Darcy is suffering from depression after the death of his father, which left him trying to fill shoes that do not fit him. By trying to emulate his father's way of life, and by focusing solely on the work of estate management and various duties to family and friends, all while doing his best to remedy the damage and debts created by Wickham, Darcy has forgotten how to enjoy life and is close to despair. This was very well written, and I liked this version of Darcy.
However, the author still has Darcy offend Elizabeth in much the same way as he did in P&P, which I thought was a bit much on top of all these new demons he now has to face, and Elizabeth is equally as unforgiving as in P&P (even though she has seen his better qualities, so this was a bit harsh, I felt).
After some agonising, they find their way to each other of course, but then there is an overlong - and what I felt to be entirely unneccessary - period of separation where we read letters back and forth between our couple, before they get their HEA.
This is not a bad vagary, nor a really amazing one that will live in my mind for years, but it's better than much of the JAFF out there. Nevertheless, I will probably not revisit it.
March 22, 2021
Lovers’ Meeting
A well written story with a fresh insight into Darcy that was a pleasure to read.
Darcy’s overwhelming struggle has been in living up to his late father’s unyielding expectations and example of what it means to be a Darcy heir - without fail. We experience much of this story from Darcy’s POV and are tuned in directly to his vulnerability and struggles as he acknowledges that even perfection in his duty, superior wealth and standing, does not bring contentment nor make him a happy man.
Darcy’s good character and compassion are revealed early to Elizabeth and the people of Meryton, which affects their view of the gentleman and the path the story travels. I enjoyed the gradual unfolding of Elizabeth and Darcy falling in love, the strength of their affection, the bits of humor in their thoughts and actions (and the playfulness of strategically placed footstools).
I struggled with changes in the dynamic of the last chapters when a last roadblock delayed their wedding. The ending was somewhat abrupt, giving an epilogue of sorts that outlined their later lives. I was not quite prepared to leave their present! Throughout the whole, I enjoyed the engaging writing, the emotion and insight into Darcy and the unique storyline. I look forward to reading more from this author.
A well written story with a fresh insight into Darcy that was a pleasure to read.
Darcy’s overwhelming struggle has been in living up to his late father’s unyielding expectations and example of what it means to be a Darcy heir - without fail. We experience much of this story from Darcy’s POV and are tuned in directly to his vulnerability and struggles as he acknowledges that even perfection in his duty, superior wealth and standing, does not bring contentment nor make him a happy man.
Darcy’s good character and compassion are revealed early to Elizabeth and the people of Meryton, which affects their view of the gentleman and the path the story travels. I enjoyed the gradual unfolding of Elizabeth and Darcy falling in love, the strength of their affection, the bits of humor in their thoughts and actions (and the playfulness of strategically placed footstools).
I struggled with changes in the dynamic of the last chapters when a last roadblock delayed their wedding. The ending was somewhat abrupt, giving an epilogue of sorts that outlined their later lives. I was not quite prepared to leave their present! Throughout the whole, I enjoyed the engaging writing, the emotion and insight into Darcy and the unique storyline. I look forward to reading more from this author.
February 15, 2021
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
Lovers' Meeting is a Pride and Prejudice,by Catherine Lodge is an intriguing Austenesque variation. That gives the reader something to ponder on. What if?
Here we have Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet meeting way before Meryton assembly.
In this tale they meet when an accident happens, Darcy is on the road traveling to Nertherfield when there is an an overturned cart with the drivers load has trapped him and his horses. As tale moves forward Darcy struggles with reasons why Elizabeth is ill suited to be his wife. Darcy is a trouble man, that honor and duty has been instilled into by his overbearing father.
This is a coming of age P&P with some interesting catches. One I almost missed in the beginning but when it reappeared later in the book. It definitely caught my attention.
I found the ending was not what I hoped it would be.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 stars
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
Lovers' Meeting is a Pride and Prejudice,by Catherine Lodge is an intriguing Austenesque variation. That gives the reader something to ponder on. What if?
Here we have Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet meeting way before Meryton assembly.
In this tale they meet when an accident happens, Darcy is on the road traveling to Nertherfield when there is an an overturned cart with the drivers load has trapped him and his horses. As tale moves forward Darcy struggles with reasons why Elizabeth is ill suited to be his wife. Darcy is a trouble man, that honor and duty has been instilled into by his overbearing father.
This is a coming of age P&P with some interesting catches. One I almost missed in the beginning but when it reappeared later in the book. It definitely caught my attention.
I found the ending was not what I hoped it would be.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 stars
March 20, 2021
Well-written and full of angst
This variation is well worth reading for being written well, and for several angsty situations depicted. The story started with Elizabeth Bennet having a high esteem for Fitzwilliam Darcy, the gentleman who took charge in dealing with a carriage accident which Elizabeth was a witness to. However, that admiration and respect for the gentleman evaporated when Darcy spoke the infamous insults towards Elizabeth at a Meryton Assembly, not to mention his horribly offensive proposal. The rest of the story rested on Darcy realizing his wrongful pride would not bring him happiness and fulfillment as pointed out by a dying friend (a newly-introduced character who is instrumental in Fitzwilliam Darcy’s desire to become a better man other than Elizabeth), as well as Darcy proving and showing to Elizabeth that he has become a better man.
Many of the characterizations of Canon changed. For example, Mr. Bennet is more severe towards his wife; Mr. Bingley, more sure and resolved in his choice of wife; Lady Catherine, more improper in her dealings with Elizabeth; and Mrs. Bennet, more pitiful. Lydia did much worse for herself here while another villain comes out other than Wickham and Caroline Bingley.
Finally, Fitzwilliam Darcy is more admirable here, willing in self-improvement for the sake of the woman he loves and in honor of a dying friend’s advice. Elizabeth Bennet likewise is very likable in this variation especially when she began to realize that she is falling for the man she initially respected and admired but who she rejected for being arrogant and prideful. She may have been very pragmatic but ones she truly realized Mr. Darcy’s regard towards her, she accepted it willingly and embraced the situation with all her heart, mind and soul engaged. Their romantic exchanges towards the end are swoon-worthy and endearing.
One issue this reader has with this variation is the title, which hardly reflects what the author is trying to impart. It may as well refer to any other romantic novel without distinction, rather generic for a beautifully written variation.
This variation is well worth reading for being written well, and for several angsty situations depicted. The story started with Elizabeth Bennet having a high esteem for Fitzwilliam Darcy, the gentleman who took charge in dealing with a carriage accident which Elizabeth was a witness to. However, that admiration and respect for the gentleman evaporated when Darcy spoke the infamous insults towards Elizabeth at a Meryton Assembly, not to mention his horribly offensive proposal. The rest of the story rested on Darcy realizing his wrongful pride would not bring him happiness and fulfillment as pointed out by a dying friend (a newly-introduced character who is instrumental in Fitzwilliam Darcy’s desire to become a better man other than Elizabeth), as well as Darcy proving and showing to Elizabeth that he has become a better man.
Many of the characterizations of Canon changed. For example, Mr. Bennet is more severe towards his wife; Mr. Bingley, more sure and resolved in his choice of wife; Lady Catherine, more improper in her dealings with Elizabeth; and Mrs. Bennet, more pitiful. Lydia did much worse for herself here while another villain comes out other than Wickham and Caroline Bingley.
Finally, Fitzwilliam Darcy is more admirable here, willing in self-improvement for the sake of the woman he loves and in honor of a dying friend’s advice. Elizabeth Bennet likewise is very likable in this variation especially when she began to realize that she is falling for the man she initially respected and admired but who she rejected for being arrogant and prideful. She may have been very pragmatic but ones she truly realized Mr. Darcy’s regard towards her, she accepted it willingly and embraced the situation with all her heart, mind and soul engaged. Their romantic exchanges towards the end are swoon-worthy and endearing.
One issue this reader has with this variation is the title, which hardly reflects what the author is trying to impart. It may as well refer to any other romantic novel without distinction, rather generic for a beautifully written variation.
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