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Sketching Mr. Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
The morning after the Netherfield Ball, Fitzwilliam Darcy is ready to leave Hertfordshire, taking his friend Bingley away from the lady of his choice and distancing himself from her sister, who has disturbed his tranquility for weeks.
The path, meant to lead him away, unexpectedly brings him close to the person he most wants to avoid, and saving Miss Elizabeth Bennet’s life becomes not only his immediate goal but also a decision that affects his future.
A strong and powerful yet forgotten bond from their past—combined with startling events in the present—brings Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy into a marriage not planned but accepted by both, forcing them to break the barriers between them in order to build their future happiness.
The book includes mature content.
The path, meant to lead him away, unexpectedly brings him close to the person he most wants to avoid, and saving Miss Elizabeth Bennet’s life becomes not only his immediate goal but also a decision that affects his future.
A strong and powerful yet forgotten bond from their past—combined with startling events in the present—brings Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy into a marriage not planned but accepted by both, forcing them to break the barriers between them in order to build their future happiness.
The book includes mature content.
619 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 17, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
August 6, 2021
1/6/18: I just finished reading this story again. Read it on Kindle the first time then I won a paperback copy as the grand prize in the raffle drawing for the blog tour of The Darcy Monologues. I didn't remember all the angst and truly found this to again be worthy of the 5 star rating. Even as a FMS it has its slant on how that came about. Well done: MA rating.
Marvelous: one of the best JAFF stories I have read. It brought me to tears over and over again and at times, even sobs.
I seem to have read many stories lately with compromise leading to marriage being the theme. This one had the most imaginative premise of all, in my opinion. We do not come upon our couple by happenchance in a position to shame rightful priorities. No, as the book description tells us, just after the Netherfield Ball, Darcy has happened upon Elizabeth and helped her home after a very dire accident. So, in this story, they have done nothing wrong. But drunken suppositions, overheard hints and slanders are spread…and not in Meryton. Of all places the gossip is insidiously being whispered in London. Elizabeth, her family, friends and acquaintances know nothing of what is going on. Darcy hears, and as a man of honor, even though this will in no way affect him or his family, decides to address the issue with Mr. Bennet and Elizabeth.
Thus the portion of the tale about compromise begins. However, there are so many other things of importance in our story. Ten years earlier, Elizabeth’s life and the life of her puppy are saved while in Brighton, where she, Jane and Aunt and Uncle Gardiner have been vacationing. Ironically, they meet Anne Darcy (whom Mrs. Gardiner knew previously) and her very young daughter, Georgiana, and become friends. Elizabeth begins a journal in which she identifies the young man who saved her as “her hero”. She names her dog, Lucky, due to the youth calling him very lucky to have survived drowning.
As in canon (after the ball), readers know how Darcy feels about Elizabeth, how he has resisted her charms and, even how he has spoken about her and about her family connections. We also know her pert opinion of this man who seems to gaze at her only to find fault and how she is just “tolerable”. Thus when he does propose it is not the Hunsford proposal but he is, astonishingly, at first rejected! And he now knows that she was not expecting his attentions, AT ALL.
This story does not take place over a long period of time. Most of the events, the actions, are squeezed into a one month period. But, as both our protagonists state, it seems like a year passes. Some surprises are in store as we read this variation: Darcy has a history. He has more than just his London townhouse and Pemberley to manage and Georgiana to guard over and protect; he is also in charge of other properties and a cousin’s estate and monies. This cousin is one James Darcy, a young man whose impetuosity and lack of discretion cause more than one source of trouble for himself and then Darcy and Elizabeth. Lady Catherine – well, you know her attitude towards and expectations of her nephew – READERS: beware – you do not know of what this lady is capable! Then we have a few new characters, besides James. We read of a Lady Annabelle Stafford nee: Weston, a beautiful and wealthy widow, who stirs the wonderings of a newlywed young lady with the widow’s attentions to the husband. “Wicked man” has friends in high places and is brought into more devious schemes than we would expect.
The passion between the newlyweds is intense and I am not talking about bedroom scenes (although there is that late in our tale). Darcy and Elizabeth, being of deep loyalties and walking on eggshells in this forced marriage, have their moments of misunderstandings, of jealousies and outrage. There are slammed doors and tears on more than one occasion.
There are some characters here with whom I fell in love and who added more than “cuteness” to the story. We have a servant girl and her three children. You will adore Libby and Peter and smile over Lucky and Titan. Cousin Robert Fitzwilliam, and his sister, Lady Isabella, offer their support to our couple. While Mrs. Annesley, the companion, and Mrs. Thomason, the housekeeper, find a new member of the Darcy family somewhat of a surprise as she wins their admiration and then needs help. The entire Bennet family and the Gardiners are included as the tale progresses and are as expected for the most part. Darcy reconsiders the roles of society, his household and his acquaintances, “And here I am now, admiring the worthiness of Elizabeth’s uncle and aunt, the nobility of my sister’s companion, the courage and genuine affection of the children of a servant whom I have barely noticed before.”
This tale has a lot of angst which I love in a story. It has its moments of suspense and times of thrills. And, although most of the action is based in London there are times in Meryton and one wild chase towards Rosings. But above all we read of their falling in love again against odds and against expectations.
And as Elizabeth concludes – “The drawing was complete now – she has long ago sketched his face and his character and every feature was clearly drawn in her mind and soul.” SIGH!
Marvelous: one of the best JAFF stories I have read. It brought me to tears over and over again and at times, even sobs.
I seem to have read many stories lately with compromise leading to marriage being the theme. This one had the most imaginative premise of all, in my opinion. We do not come upon our couple by happenchance in a position to shame rightful priorities. No, as the book description tells us, just after the Netherfield Ball, Darcy has happened upon Elizabeth and helped her home after a very dire accident. So, in this story, they have done nothing wrong. But drunken suppositions, overheard hints and slanders are spread…and not in Meryton. Of all places the gossip is insidiously being whispered in London. Elizabeth, her family, friends and acquaintances know nothing of what is going on. Darcy hears, and as a man of honor, even though this will in no way affect him or his family, decides to address the issue with Mr. Bennet and Elizabeth.
Thus the portion of the tale about compromise begins. However, there are so many other things of importance in our story. Ten years earlier, Elizabeth’s life and the life of her puppy are saved while in Brighton, where she, Jane and Aunt and Uncle Gardiner have been vacationing. Ironically, they meet Anne Darcy (whom Mrs. Gardiner knew previously) and her very young daughter, Georgiana, and become friends. Elizabeth begins a journal in which she identifies the young man who saved her as “her hero”. She names her dog, Lucky, due to the youth calling him very lucky to have survived drowning.
As in canon (after the ball), readers know how Darcy feels about Elizabeth, how he has resisted her charms and, even how he has spoken about her and about her family connections. We also know her pert opinion of this man who seems to gaze at her only to find fault and how she is just “tolerable”. Thus when he does propose it is not the Hunsford proposal but he is, astonishingly, at first rejected! And he now knows that she was not expecting his attentions, AT ALL.
This story does not take place over a long period of time. Most of the events, the actions, are squeezed into a one month period. But, as both our protagonists state, it seems like a year passes. Some surprises are in store as we read this variation: Darcy has a history. He has more than just his London townhouse and Pemberley to manage and Georgiana to guard over and protect; he is also in charge of other properties and a cousin’s estate and monies. This cousin is one James Darcy, a young man whose impetuosity and lack of discretion cause more than one source of trouble for himself and then Darcy and Elizabeth. Lady Catherine – well, you know her attitude towards and expectations of her nephew – READERS: beware – you do not know of what this lady is capable! Then we have a few new characters, besides James. We read of a Lady Annabelle Stafford nee: Weston, a beautiful and wealthy widow, who stirs the wonderings of a newlywed young lady with the widow’s attentions to the husband. “Wicked man” has friends in high places and is brought into more devious schemes than we would expect.
The passion between the newlyweds is intense and I am not talking about bedroom scenes (although there is that late in our tale). Darcy and Elizabeth, being of deep loyalties and walking on eggshells in this forced marriage, have their moments of misunderstandings, of jealousies and outrage. There are slammed doors and tears on more than one occasion.
There are some characters here with whom I fell in love and who added more than “cuteness” to the story. We have a servant girl and her three children. You will adore Libby and Peter and smile over Lucky and Titan. Cousin Robert Fitzwilliam, and his sister, Lady Isabella, offer their support to our couple. While Mrs. Annesley, the companion, and Mrs. Thomason, the housekeeper, find a new member of the Darcy family somewhat of a surprise as she wins their admiration and then needs help. The entire Bennet family and the Gardiners are included as the tale progresses and are as expected for the most part. Darcy reconsiders the roles of society, his household and his acquaintances, “And here I am now, admiring the worthiness of Elizabeth’s uncle and aunt, the nobility of my sister’s companion, the courage and genuine affection of the children of a servant whom I have barely noticed before.”
This tale has a lot of angst which I love in a story. It has its moments of suspense and times of thrills. And, although most of the action is based in London there are times in Meryton and one wild chase towards Rosings. But above all we read of their falling in love again against odds and against expectations.
And as Elizabeth concludes – “The drawing was complete now – she has long ago sketched his face and his character and every feature was clearly drawn in her mind and soul.” SIGH!
January 8, 2016
This is a unique, drama filled, fast paced P&P what if. I'd say 95% of the book takes place over a period of 6 weeks. And what a crazy 6 weeks they are.
The Story begins in Brighton in 1801 when Lizzy is 10, Jane 12 and The Gardiners newly married. Lizzy and her puppy meet Mrs. Darcy and Georgiana. When Lizzy and her puppy almost drown they are rescued by a mystery man...
We next meet Lizzy the day after the Netherfield Ball, immediately following Mr. Collins proposal. She and her dog, Lucky, flee Longbourn for a long walk. Then she has an accident and falls into a pond. As she trudges home, wet and cold she encounters Mr. Darcy who wraps her in his coat, places her on his horse and takes her home.
Soon he and Mr. Bingley depart for London and P& P begins to play out as JA wrote it. But Darcy sends his family Doctor to Meryton and rumors begin to fly. When his ne'er do well cousin, James Darcy, repeats a rumor of Darcy compromising a young lady in the woods in Hertfordshire he knows he must act. And within a month he and Lizzy are married and living in London.
The book is full of drama, intrigue, arguments, misconceptions, people behaving badly. Lizzy thinks Darcy is cheating, Darcy thinks Lizzy is cheating, Mr. Bennet has an accident and there is an attempted kidnapping. Every time you catch your breath there is a new drama, angst or crisis winding up.
The author includes several scenes for mature audiences as the Darcys become husband and wife.
The Story begins in Brighton in 1801 when Lizzy is 10, Jane 12 and The Gardiners newly married. Lizzy and her puppy meet Mrs. Darcy and Georgiana. When Lizzy and her puppy almost drown they are rescued by a mystery man...
We next meet Lizzy the day after the Netherfield Ball, immediately following Mr. Collins proposal. She and her dog, Lucky, flee Longbourn for a long walk. Then she has an accident and falls into a pond. As she trudges home, wet and cold she encounters Mr. Darcy who wraps her in his coat, places her on his horse and takes her home.
Soon he and Mr. Bingley depart for London and P& P begins to play out as JA wrote it. But Darcy sends his family Doctor to Meryton and rumors begin to fly. When his ne'er do well cousin, James Darcy, repeats a rumor of Darcy compromising a young lady in the woods in Hertfordshire he knows he must act. And within a month he and Lizzy are married and living in London.
The book is full of drama, intrigue, arguments, misconceptions, people behaving badly. Lizzy thinks Darcy is cheating, Darcy thinks Lizzy is cheating, Mr. Bennet has an accident and there is an attempted kidnapping. Every time you catch your breath there is a new drama, angst or crisis winding up.
The author includes several scenes for mature audiences as the Darcys become husband and wife.
October 21, 2015
A Most Splendid and Compelling Forced Marriage Situation!
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation, Mature Audiences
TIME FRAME: The day after the Netherfield Ball and about 2 months later
MAIN CHARACTERS: Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Darcy, Georgiana Darcy, Mr. Wickham, Lady Catherine, James Darcy, Lady Stafford, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr. Bennet, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner
WHY I WANTED TO READ THIS NOVEL:
I’ve read and loved every published work by Lory Lilian
Pride and Prejudice variation + forced/arranged marriage scenario = that’s my jam! (well, one of them!)
WHAT I LOVED:
- The Premise: I love it when Darcy comes to the rescue! It immediately throws Lizzy a curve ball because she already believes him to be full of selfish disdain and conceit. But in this situation, Darcy’s selfless concern and tender actions, bring about some speculation and rumors. What does Darcy do? He again tries to save the day and protect Elizabeth’s name! It felt very believable that Darcy would act in such a way and that Elizabeth would immediately begin to wonder at her previous impressions of him. I liked how one of the central themes of the story was Elizabeth trying to understand and fully figure out Mr. Darcy’s character.
- The Execution: While the premise is intriguing and clever, you need more than a great idea to build a satisfying and enthralling story. I thought Lory Lilian did a fabulous job of providing a plausible and pleasing sequence of events for her tale. How Darcy and Elizabeth react to their forced marriage felt true to character and compelling. I love that Ms. Lilian didn’t attempt to add too much melodrama or angst to the situation; the balance felt perfect.
- The Realistic and Thoughtful Portrayals: Probably my favorite aspect of this novel was seeing how Darcy and Elizabeth were portrayed. Ms. Lilian’s Darcy is a bit straight-laced and impeccably proper; she accentuates the fact that he is kind-hearted and takes his responsibilities and duties very seriously. It was quite easy to fall in love with such a worthy and admirable man! Elizabeth was easy to love too; her compassionate nature, tender heart, and loyalty were wonderfully highlighted in this tale. For me, these depictions felt very realistic, gratifying, and very reverent towards the original.
- Illustrating the Relationship: I loved witnessing the gradual evolution of Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s feelings for each other. They don’t fall in love and confess their feelings instantly; there is a slow build-up, lots of introspection, and many revelations. Which for me, made a very satisfying and engaging journey. I love how the conflicts and obstacles this couple faced were varied in size and consequence, and that there was more diverse dynamics to their relationship. I’m not a fan when Darcy and Elizabeth continue to face the same obstacle, opposing force, or have repeated misunderstandings.
- Loyal Servants and Pets: Aww, I love the love! It was so heartwarming to see the Darcys interact with their dogs and those in their employ; and to see the respect and loyalty the animals and servants had for them in return.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
I can’t really find anything I did not enjoy. Some readers may not like the fact that Darcy has experience and past history with another woman, but I wasn’t bothered by it; I appreciated the length, timing, circumstances of that affair. This type of occurrence added some realism to the story and in no way diminished Darcy in my eyes!
NOTE: There are several romantic and intimate scenes that begin in the last quarter (90 pages or so) of the book, and for that reason I’d recommend this book for Mature Audiences only.
CONCLUSION:
Sketching Mr. Darcy a beautifully and skillfully written tale that presents a faithful look at what life would be liked should Darcy and Elizabeth be forced to marry soon after the Netherfield Ball. As always, Ms. Lilian presents a story that is thoughtful, creative, and exceptionally romantic! Sketching Mr. Darcy is definitely my new favorite of hers!
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation, Mature Audiences
TIME FRAME: The day after the Netherfield Ball and about 2 months later
MAIN CHARACTERS: Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Darcy, Georgiana Darcy, Mr. Wickham, Lady Catherine, James Darcy, Lady Stafford, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr. Bennet, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner
WHY I WANTED TO READ THIS NOVEL:
I’ve read and loved every published work by Lory Lilian
Pride and Prejudice variation + forced/arranged marriage scenario = that’s my jam! (well, one of them!)
WHAT I LOVED:
- The Premise: I love it when Darcy comes to the rescue! It immediately throws Lizzy a curve ball because she already believes him to be full of selfish disdain and conceit. But in this situation, Darcy’s selfless concern and tender actions, bring about some speculation and rumors. What does Darcy do? He again tries to save the day and protect Elizabeth’s name! It felt very believable that Darcy would act in such a way and that Elizabeth would immediately begin to wonder at her previous impressions of him. I liked how one of the central themes of the story was Elizabeth trying to understand and fully figure out Mr. Darcy’s character.
- The Execution: While the premise is intriguing and clever, you need more than a great idea to build a satisfying and enthralling story. I thought Lory Lilian did a fabulous job of providing a plausible and pleasing sequence of events for her tale. How Darcy and Elizabeth react to their forced marriage felt true to character and compelling. I love that Ms. Lilian didn’t attempt to add too much melodrama or angst to the situation; the balance felt perfect.
- The Realistic and Thoughtful Portrayals: Probably my favorite aspect of this novel was seeing how Darcy and Elizabeth were portrayed. Ms. Lilian’s Darcy is a bit straight-laced and impeccably proper; she accentuates the fact that he is kind-hearted and takes his responsibilities and duties very seriously. It was quite easy to fall in love with such a worthy and admirable man! Elizabeth was easy to love too; her compassionate nature, tender heart, and loyalty were wonderfully highlighted in this tale. For me, these depictions felt very realistic, gratifying, and very reverent towards the original.
- Illustrating the Relationship: I loved witnessing the gradual evolution of Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s feelings for each other. They don’t fall in love and confess their feelings instantly; there is a slow build-up, lots of introspection, and many revelations. Which for me, made a very satisfying and engaging journey. I love how the conflicts and obstacles this couple faced were varied in size and consequence, and that there was more diverse dynamics to their relationship. I’m not a fan when Darcy and Elizabeth continue to face the same obstacle, opposing force, or have repeated misunderstandings.
- Loyal Servants and Pets: Aww, I love the love! It was so heartwarming to see the Darcys interact with their dogs and those in their employ; and to see the respect and loyalty the animals and servants had for them in return.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
I can’t really find anything I did not enjoy. Some readers may not like the fact that Darcy has experience and past history with another woman, but I wasn’t bothered by it; I appreciated the length, timing, circumstances of that affair. This type of occurrence added some realism to the story and in no way diminished Darcy in my eyes!
NOTE: There are several romantic and intimate scenes that begin in the last quarter (90 pages or so) of the book, and for that reason I’d recommend this book for Mature Audiences only.
CONCLUSION:
Sketching Mr. Darcy a beautifully and skillfully written tale that presents a faithful look at what life would be liked should Darcy and Elizabeth be forced to marry soon after the Netherfield Ball. As always, Ms. Lilian presents a story that is thoughtful, creative, and exceptionally romantic! Sketching Mr. Darcy is definitely my new favorite of hers!
September 15, 2023
When things get complicated following Darcy's saving Elizabeth's life, they both end up in a position neither anticipated.
Yes, it is a FMS trope, but with Darcy being so much on board, he actually treats her quite well. He tries to take the time to get to know her better, but even more for her to get to know him and love him even half as much as he realizes he loves her.
Being passionate people, there are definite ups and downs in this process, but find a way to communicate better after each eruption.
As per this author there are mature scenes. However, I was pleasantly surprised they were contained to the later part of the story, as a natural aspect of the couples growth and love. Not an obsessive, overly detailed, reiteration of lust, sex and how many different ways it can be performed.
Not 100% sure its a reread, so it'll get back-burnered on the bookshelf for now.
Yes, it is a FMS trope, but with Darcy being so much on board, he actually treats her quite well. He tries to take the time to get to know her better, but even more for her to get to know him and love him even half as much as he realizes he loves her.
Being passionate people, there are definite ups and downs in this process, but find a way to communicate better after each eruption.
As per this author there are mature scenes. However, I was pleasantly surprised they were contained to the later part of the story, as a natural aspect of the couples growth and love. Not an obsessive, overly detailed, reiteration of lust, sex and how many different ways it can be performed.
Not 100% sure its a reread, so it'll get back-burnered on the bookshelf for now.
October 24, 2020
I loved it. I read an Amazon review that didn't like Darcy's previous relationship. I am pleased to say that it was written very well and in no way diminished the love story between E and D. I thought it was definitely up to par with the author's other books so if you love her other books you will more than likely love this one. I can already see myself rereading this one again and again.
Edit: So I read this again. I am glad that I loved it so much the first time because when I went to pick it up again. I had barely any memory of it. Even after this second reading, the story is lost to me after a week. I guess it just didn't stick somehow. Love the author. Perhaps I will read it again in a couple of months.
Edit: reread again. Loved it.
Edit: Loved it again!
Edit: So I read this again. I am glad that I loved it so much the first time because when I went to pick it up again. I had barely any memory of it. Even after this second reading, the story is lost to me after a week. I guess it just didn't stick somehow. Love the author. Perhaps I will read it again in a couple of months.
Edit: reread again. Loved it.
Edit: Loved it again!
July 29, 2022
2.5 Stars
The idea was good, but I found it hard to truly enjoy due to the writing being stiff and forced throughout most of the story. I have loved other works by this author and was surprisingly disappointed when viewed in comparison.
The idea was good, but I found it hard to truly enjoy due to the writing being stiff and forced throughout most of the story. I have loved other works by this author and was surprisingly disappointed when viewed in comparison.
December 30, 2019
The biggest issue here is pacing -- you can tell this comes from the realm of fan fic where things can just drag on and on. But that said... this is just fun. I enjoyed this as Pride & Prejudice fan fiction and just had a nice time spending more time with these characters
October 26, 2015
Loved this variation that asked the question what if Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth Bennet were forced to marry after an innocent incident threatened to ruin their reputations. I've read this author's books before and was eager to try this one. I enjoyed how her timing as to the development of character and romance, attention to historical detail and characters as well as a lively plot made this forced marriage trope work well.
The story opens with Elizabeth Bennet out for a walk to clear her head after a stormy scene when she refused a marriage proposal. She accidentally slips into a pond in the winter. Between the cold air and her damp clothing, she would have frozen to death before getting home. Mr. Darcy comes to her rescue while out riding on his horse. He has plans to leave Meryton and never come back because of an unwelcome attraction to Elizabeth. And he does leave only to worry about her health.
But then idle tongues start speculating and twisting the story about what really happened. Darcy takes this as an opportunity to rush back to Elizabeth and request her hand in marriage to stop the talk and salvage their reputations and that of their families. She is reluctant, but agrees knowing they really have no choice.
From that point on, it is a long journey from near strangers and barely tolerated one on Elizabeth's part to maybe a chance at love if they can get past all the mistakes and misunderstandings and interferences by others. Their marriage isn't easy and they both have to work hard to make it work and maybe something will take root and grow into love.
Alright, this one wasn't easy. This pair are a tempestuous couple and the misunderstandings are vast. And if they don't make the mistakes on their own there are plenty of outside players to give them a hard time. But, there are an equal amount of supporters, too. Most of the original characters are represented as well as a few newer creations. There is a fair amount of drama and excitement. In fact, there were moments that pushed the limits toward this turning into a romp. There were dragging spots, but for the most part, it pressed forward quite steadily.
The characters are recognizable to the original Pride & Prejudice, but each range from mild to moderately different. Most secondary characters are playing larger roles or their role has altered a bit from the original story so that's part of it. And then there are several new characters not in the original that made things interesting. It's a huge cast of characters as a result.
As I said, the romance is a forced marriage and it was handled well. It takes its time and moves forward in baby steps. All the usual barriers were there from Darcy's arrogance to Elizabeth's willful misunderstanding, but there was also a fatal attraction thing going as well as a host of others working to break them up. I liked that it didn't resolve quickly though a few times I just wanted to bop them for making it harder than it had to be. Near the end, though when they were really working through their issues, the passion was off the charts.
All in all, I enjoyed the story that engaged the emotions and my interest. Austenesque lovers who don't mind a hard fought passionate romance in their variation might like it.
The story opens with Elizabeth Bennet out for a walk to clear her head after a stormy scene when she refused a marriage proposal. She accidentally slips into a pond in the winter. Between the cold air and her damp clothing, she would have frozen to death before getting home. Mr. Darcy comes to her rescue while out riding on his horse. He has plans to leave Meryton and never come back because of an unwelcome attraction to Elizabeth. And he does leave only to worry about her health.
But then idle tongues start speculating and twisting the story about what really happened. Darcy takes this as an opportunity to rush back to Elizabeth and request her hand in marriage to stop the talk and salvage their reputations and that of their families. She is reluctant, but agrees knowing they really have no choice.
From that point on, it is a long journey from near strangers and barely tolerated one on Elizabeth's part to maybe a chance at love if they can get past all the mistakes and misunderstandings and interferences by others. Their marriage isn't easy and they both have to work hard to make it work and maybe something will take root and grow into love.
Alright, this one wasn't easy. This pair are a tempestuous couple and the misunderstandings are vast. And if they don't make the mistakes on their own there are plenty of outside players to give them a hard time. But, there are an equal amount of supporters, too. Most of the original characters are represented as well as a few newer creations. There is a fair amount of drama and excitement. In fact, there were moments that pushed the limits toward this turning into a romp. There were dragging spots, but for the most part, it pressed forward quite steadily.
The characters are recognizable to the original Pride & Prejudice, but each range from mild to moderately different. Most secondary characters are playing larger roles or their role has altered a bit from the original story so that's part of it. And then there are several new characters not in the original that made things interesting. It's a huge cast of characters as a result.
As I said, the romance is a forced marriage and it was handled well. It takes its time and moves forward in baby steps. All the usual barriers were there from Darcy's arrogance to Elizabeth's willful misunderstanding, but there was also a fatal attraction thing going as well as a host of others working to break them up. I liked that it didn't resolve quickly though a few times I just wanted to bop them for making it harder than it had to be. Near the end, though when they were really working through their issues, the passion was off the charts.
All in all, I enjoyed the story that engaged the emotions and my interest. Austenesque lovers who don't mind a hard fought passionate romance in their variation might like it.
April 13, 2019
This Pride and Prejudice variation starts out so well that I decided early on to give it a chance to recover from its early problems, and then I kept reviewing that decision, right up to the point where it seemed that I was so far into it I might as well finish. I wound up regretting that. It does have its strengths, but the flaws far outweigh them, I'm afraid, and it had so much potential in the beginning that I find that sad. The book needed extensive editing before publication, in order to fulfill the promise of the prologue and early chapters.
The beginning of the story, with that first childhood rescue, and the adult one that followed, could have made for a sweet, unique variation of P&P, but the revelation of her first rescuer got lost in all the detritus. It was downplayed so much by the melodrama and sexual angst as to make it almost invisible. As it is, the promise made to the reader at the beginning isn't kept.
The beginning of the story, with that first childhood rescue, and the adult one that followed, could have made for a sweet, unique variation of P&P, but the revelation of her first rescuer got lost in all the detritus. It was downplayed so much by the melodrama and sexual angst as to make it almost invisible. As it is, the promise made to the reader at the beginning isn't kept.
September 16, 2015
I could wax lyrical about the merits of this book-how I was simply swept away from first page to last, how I was completely enthralled by the love story that is Elizabeth and Darcy,how I stayed up late just to find out what would happen next, how I went into work bleary eyed but happy as I drew ever closer to the happy conclusion that eagerly awaited me............Yes,I could wax lyrical, but I won't !!
Suffice it to say that I highly recommend this fantastic 'choccy bikky- hot cuppa-ensconced in comfy armchair' book........
Treat yourself to this escape from reality - you won't be disappointed!!
Suffice it to say that I highly recommend this fantastic 'choccy bikky- hot cuppa-ensconced in comfy armchair' book........
Treat yourself to this escape from reality - you won't be disappointed!!
April 25, 2021
Didn’t want it to end.
Reviewed in Canada on December 15, 2018
I love a book of many pages when the story is good and makes me happy. This is the second book I’ve read by this author. I’m ready to go find another. (I overlook proofreading misses, but begs improvement in this regard for future releases.)
Update: April 25, 2021
I believe this book has been updated since I read it last. This was one of the first variations I ever read or reviewed.
Reviewed in Canada on December 15, 2018
I love a book of many pages when the story is good and makes me happy. This is the second book I’ve read by this author. I’m ready to go find another. (I overlook proofreading misses, but begs improvement in this regard for future releases.)
Update: April 25, 2021
I believe this book has been updated since I read it last. This was one of the first variations I ever read or reviewed.
May 25, 2022
Good book
Liked the story, love it when there is an epilogue. Always at least like to know about children. Will read again.
Liked the story, love it when there is an epilogue. Always at least like to know about children. Will read again.
December 30, 2015
This review was first posted on Babblings of a Bookworm: http://babblingsofabookworm.blogspot....
‘Sketching Mr Darcy’ is a ‘Pride & Prejudice’ variation looking based on a forced marriage scenario. Here, Elizabeth manages to injure herself while out walking, setting out after refusing the unpalatable Mr Colllins’ proposal. Darcy is due to leave Netherfield that day, but decides to go for a ride while waiting for Bingley to be ready to leave, as he needs to keep busy to keep thoughts of a certain Miss Bennet at bay. He finds her injured and cold, and does what you’d expect of a gentleman, rescuing her and ensuring that she is safely returned home. Darcy then sets off for London, but Elizabeth’s wellbeing is on his mind. He decides to send his doctor to Longbourn to ensure that she will receive the best care, which is lucky, as Elizabeth ends up being quite ill.
This solicitous behaviour from Mr Darcy isn’t in line with the character Elizabeth thought he had, and she begins to revise her opinion of him. This is not the only area that Elizabeth begins to re-evaluate. A frank discussion with Charlotte, where the precarious financial situation of the Bennet sisters is touched upon, also gives Lizzy food for thought:
“You may laugh at Mr. Collins now, but have you considered what will occur if something happens to Mr. Bennet and none of you has made a favourable marriage? Where will you all go, Lizzy? Who will keep you? Let us hope Mr. Bingley does marry Jane because one of you needs a very wealthy husband to take care of you all. Otherwise, you, Jane or any of your sisters will gladly accept any offer, even from someone with more faults than Mr. Collins has. And would you then not regret that you so hastily rejected him?”
The episode with Mr Darcy appears to be over and life moves on, except that somebody begins to maliciously gossip about the incident. It’s just as well she is open to changing her view, as Elizabeth soon finds herself in a position where she is faced with the prospect of having to marry him to stem the gossip. There isn’t much choice for her. We know he has his attraction for her as an ulterior motive, but here Elizabeth has additional reasons for marriage too:
‘There was Mr. Darcy, proposing to her, waiting for her answer. Here was the opportunity to marry a man who would be able to support her family in times of need, the opportunity to join one of the most illustrious families in the country, the opportunity to place Jane in Mr. Bingley’s path again in the future and save her sister from the danger of accepting a marriage proposal from a man who would make her unhappy, just to save their family.’
So Elizabeth enters marriage, hopeful that she can come to love her husband, and open to the idea that it will take a while to get to know him properly:
‘She remembered their discussion at the Netherfield ball, and yes, she had not managed to sketch his character, but she would have plenty of time for that – a lifetime’
This was the first book that I’d read by this author so I don’t know how it compares with her others , but I’d say that this was a story that was romantic and generally quite low on drama until towards the end, where the drama is ramped up quite a bit. When there was a misunderstanding or argument (and there were examples of both), rather than draw out the misunderstanding for chapters and chapters things were usually resolved pretty quickly, which I liked as I see Lizzy particularly as a person with the courage to raise issues rather than let them fester under the surface. However, I was a bit surprised at how open they were with each other emotionally; by the end of ‘Pride & Prejudice’ I can see them being open because they’ve been through such a journey with each other but at this point in canon both of them are very private and keeping their cards close to their chests so for me, these characters seemed more open that I think was likely in such a short timeframe.
An aspect that some readers might find objectionable is that Darcy in this book has a romantic past. This is not an issue for me, as I think it was quite likely that he would have done, and also that a young woman marrying in those times would have expected her husband to have had previous experience so it wasn’t something that bothered me, and it was dealt with quite matter-of-factly by Elizabeth.
As I said earlier, I hadn’t read a book by this author before, and at some points I wasn’t sure where plot points were headed; there were a few occasions in this book when I felt that the author set up the potential to create a dramatic situation and then resolved it sensibly, which I liked, as sometimes you read books where you question whether a situation will ever be resolved as the characters just won’t talk to each other!
For those who like to know such things, there are a few sex scenes in this book, but they are not graphic.
I’d recommend this book to those who like a romantic, low-angst read, and I’d rate it as a four star read.
Note: I received an ebook of this title from the author for my honest review.
‘Sketching Mr Darcy’ is a ‘Pride & Prejudice’ variation looking based on a forced marriage scenario. Here, Elizabeth manages to injure herself while out walking, setting out after refusing the unpalatable Mr Colllins’ proposal. Darcy is due to leave Netherfield that day, but decides to go for a ride while waiting for Bingley to be ready to leave, as he needs to keep busy to keep thoughts of a certain Miss Bennet at bay. He finds her injured and cold, and does what you’d expect of a gentleman, rescuing her and ensuring that she is safely returned home. Darcy then sets off for London, but Elizabeth’s wellbeing is on his mind. He decides to send his doctor to Longbourn to ensure that she will receive the best care, which is lucky, as Elizabeth ends up being quite ill.
This solicitous behaviour from Mr Darcy isn’t in line with the character Elizabeth thought he had, and she begins to revise her opinion of him. This is not the only area that Elizabeth begins to re-evaluate. A frank discussion with Charlotte, where the precarious financial situation of the Bennet sisters is touched upon, also gives Lizzy food for thought:
“You may laugh at Mr. Collins now, but have you considered what will occur if something happens to Mr. Bennet and none of you has made a favourable marriage? Where will you all go, Lizzy? Who will keep you? Let us hope Mr. Bingley does marry Jane because one of you needs a very wealthy husband to take care of you all. Otherwise, you, Jane or any of your sisters will gladly accept any offer, even from someone with more faults than Mr. Collins has. And would you then not regret that you so hastily rejected him?”
The episode with Mr Darcy appears to be over and life moves on, except that somebody begins to maliciously gossip about the incident. It’s just as well she is open to changing her view, as Elizabeth soon finds herself in a position where she is faced with the prospect of having to marry him to stem the gossip. There isn’t much choice for her. We know he has his attraction for her as an ulterior motive, but here Elizabeth has additional reasons for marriage too:
‘There was Mr. Darcy, proposing to her, waiting for her answer. Here was the opportunity to marry a man who would be able to support her family in times of need, the opportunity to join one of the most illustrious families in the country, the opportunity to place Jane in Mr. Bingley’s path again in the future and save her sister from the danger of accepting a marriage proposal from a man who would make her unhappy, just to save their family.’
So Elizabeth enters marriage, hopeful that she can come to love her husband, and open to the idea that it will take a while to get to know him properly:
‘She remembered their discussion at the Netherfield ball, and yes, she had not managed to sketch his character, but she would have plenty of time for that – a lifetime’
This was the first book that I’d read by this author so I don’t know how it compares with her others , but I’d say that this was a story that was romantic and generally quite low on drama until towards the end, where the drama is ramped up quite a bit. When there was a misunderstanding or argument (and there were examples of both), rather than draw out the misunderstanding for chapters and chapters things were usually resolved pretty quickly, which I liked as I see Lizzy particularly as a person with the courage to raise issues rather than let them fester under the surface. However, I was a bit surprised at how open they were with each other emotionally; by the end of ‘Pride & Prejudice’ I can see them being open because they’ve been through such a journey with each other but at this point in canon both of them are very private and keeping their cards close to their chests so for me, these characters seemed more open that I think was likely in such a short timeframe.
An aspect that some readers might find objectionable is that Darcy in this book has a romantic past. This is not an issue for me, as I think it was quite likely that he would have done, and also that a young woman marrying in those times would have expected her husband to have had previous experience so it wasn’t something that bothered me, and it was dealt with quite matter-of-factly by Elizabeth.
As I said earlier, I hadn’t read a book by this author before, and at some points I wasn’t sure where plot points were headed; there were a few occasions in this book when I felt that the author set up the potential to create a dramatic situation and then resolved it sensibly, which I liked, as sometimes you read books where you question whether a situation will ever be resolved as the characters just won’t talk to each other!
For those who like to know such things, there are a few sex scenes in this book, but they are not graphic.
I’d recommend this book to those who like a romantic, low-angst read, and I’d rate it as a four star read.
Note: I received an ebook of this title from the author for my honest review.
April 2, 2019
I'm re-reading some of my favourites this year so Sketching Mr Darcy was one of the first I chose. We start soon after the Netherfield Ball and a compromising situation results in an almost forced marriage scenario... I say almost because Elizabeth seems unconcerned about London gossip but Darcy sees this as an ideal opportunity to marry the woman he loves without having to own his feelings.
What follows is a relatively short period of time that mainly follows Elizabeth and Darcy as they come to know each other and fall in love. It is really sweet. There is a fair bit of sexual content towards the end of the book but you could skip over this if you wanted to.
We have some new characters in thus story... James Darcy - cousin and Lady Annabelle who I just loved to hate. This Elizabeth is a really strong character and I liked her so much! Darcy is a real sweetheart and I liked him too...
I think this is one of my favourites and well worth a read if you haven't done so already and well worth reading again if you have!
What follows is a relatively short period of time that mainly follows Elizabeth and Darcy as they come to know each other and fall in love. It is really sweet. There is a fair bit of sexual content towards the end of the book but you could skip over this if you wanted to.
We have some new characters in thus story... James Darcy - cousin and Lady Annabelle who I just loved to hate. This Elizabeth is a really strong character and I liked her so much! Darcy is a real sweetheart and I liked him too...
I think this is one of my favourites and well worth a read if you haven't done so already and well worth reading again if you have!
May 11, 2016
3.5 Stars
For me this alternative journey didn't really grab me until half way through the book. I found the writing style more narrative than anything else and at times the conversations were stilted. I did enjoy the prologue where Elizabeth and Jane as young girls meet Lady Anne Darcy and Georgiana. The rescue at the end of the prologue does give you a sense of where this story is leading.
As the book description indicates, Elizabeth and Darcy are forced into marriage after rumours and lies are spread about them. There is alot going on in this story besides their attempts to make this marriage work. I would recommend this book to others as Ms. Lilian does write some very unique variations.
For me this alternative journey didn't really grab me until half way through the book. I found the writing style more narrative than anything else and at times the conversations were stilted. I did enjoy the prologue where Elizabeth and Jane as young girls meet Lady Anne Darcy and Georgiana. The rescue at the end of the prologue does give you a sense of where this story is leading.
As the book description indicates, Elizabeth and Darcy are forced into marriage after rumours and lies are spread about them. There is alot going on in this story besides their attempts to make this marriage work. I would recommend this book to others as Ms. Lilian does write some very unique variations.
August 4, 2015
Have to say I'm a fan of Ms Lillian and this book did not disappoint this reader. In this alternative Bingle and Darcy are delayed leaving Netherfield and so while Darcy is out riding he comes upon Elizabeth right after she's had a little accident. The noble man that he is, he rescues her. Well this starts the book down the path to a supposed comprimised. What I like was that their characters are real with flaws and all that comes with it. We hear Darcy's back story and see his and Elizabeth's insecurities and how they overcome it. Loved the journey that has them fall in love.
This JAFF reader enjoyed this story and would definitely recomend it.
This JAFF reader enjoyed this story and would definitely recomend it.
October 23, 2017
My favorite author of P&P variations!
This is the second book I have read now by Ms. Lillian, and I am so excited to read more. Her stories have depth, emotion, well developed characters and such pleasing endings..not to mention perfectly delightful lovemaking! Ha! Too good to be flippantly labeled 'romance novels', as they are only that genre in basics, in every other aspect they are truly wonderful writing!
This is the second book I have read now by Ms. Lillian, and I am so excited to read more. Her stories have depth, emotion, well developed characters and such pleasing endings..not to mention perfectly delightful lovemaking! Ha! Too good to be flippantly labeled 'romance novels', as they are only that genre in basics, in every other aspect they are truly wonderful writing!
May 8, 2017
Boring! 50 pages from the end and I couldn't bring myself to read one more pointless sentence. If you are looking for a true Darcy and Elizabeth you won't find it here. No plot, just endless days of Darcy and Elizabeth in the same house without interacting much.
February 15, 2016
Can Elizabeth faithfully sketch Mr. Darcy’s true character after an accident forces them into a marriage of “convenience?”
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
When I started reading JAFF last year, one of the very first authors that I was fortunate to discover was Lory Lilian. After enjoying nearly all of her books, I was looking forward to reading her latest novel, “Sketching Mr. Darcy.” It’s my pleasure to say that this latest book will not disappoint her fans! Here, Ms. Lilian once again delivers for us her signature style, which includes a long and winding story filled with wonderful misunderstandings and challenging obstacles for her characters, with plenty of steamy romance, some new and intriguing characters, all contained within a plot that keeps us gladly reading until the very end of this book.
Ms. Lilian begins her story during the summer of 1801, where we meet a young Elizabeth Bennett, who is vacationing in Brighton with her aunt and uncle Gardiner, and her sister, Jane. The Darcy family also happens to be vacationing in Brighton and a chance meeting occurs between these two parties. During this vacation, Elizabeth, and her puppy, become involved in an accident and as she frantically tries to save her dog, a mysterious gentleman saves them. Since Elizabeth is unable to uncover the identity of the man, she recalls her memories of him in her journal. These memories stay within her heart and mind for a very long time…
As we flash forward to 1811, we meet Elizabeth and her family in Meryton, along with Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy, who are also in Meryton, visiting Bingley’s estate, Netherfield. After an unfortunate incident occurs involving Elizabeth, and she is rescued by Mr. Darcy, they both start to worry that rumors will circulate around Meryton about this “compromising” rescue. Unfortunately, for everyone involved, rumors do begin to circulate around London and they are about Darcy and Elizabeth, which eventually causes them to enter into a “forced” marriage. As Mr. Darcy has already formed an “attachment” of his own to an unsuspecting Elizabeth, he is not as “forced” into this arrangement as Elizabeth believes he has been through these circumstances.
I typically love forced marriage scenario stories because we have the pleasure of watching Darcy and Elizabeth spend a lot of time together, up close and personal, in lots of awkward, and sometimes intimate moments, mentally and physically exploring each other as they decide whether or not they can reach the long-awaited achievement of allowing their relationship to evolve into a trusting and loving marriage. I can confidently state that Ms. Lilian scores on each of these levels within this arrangement.
Back in London, and now that they are newly married, Darcy and Elizabeth find themselves spending time with their family and friends. Elizabeth becomes well-acquainted with her new staff at their townhouse and Darcy learns to allow her to grow into this role as she exercises her confidence and her intelligence to handle various household matters. Through interactions such as these, Elizabeth comes to sketch a more accurate picture of Darcy’s character, as she comes to realize that she likes what she see in him. Being around Darcy also allows him to demonstrate his more worthy, and sometimes his not-so-worthy qualities; yet, it is this mixture of complexities that allow Elizabeth to understand the extent of his duties and responsibilities, which have shaped her husband into the man he is today.
As the eldest cousin to a young man named James Darcy, Mr. Darcy spends quite a bit of time helping his cousin manage his holdings and his estate; however, James is an immature and irresponsible young man who only has his own interests in mind, so he takes advantage of Darcy’s generosity to the detriment of both gentlemen. He also finds himself tangled in a situation that he regrets, as he learns the hard way to come to know the value of his cousin’s truest nature.
I loved that Ms. Lilian included a storyline where Darcy had a past lover. It’s not a storyline we revel in often, and yet, I always believed that Darcy never came to his marriage as an “innocent” man. It makes sense that as a man of his social standing and wealth, that his closet would have a few skeletons hanging alongside his waistcoats. I hate to admit this, but I did enjoy witnessing Elizabeth’s jealousy as she had to grapple with the trouble this other woman was attempting to cause in their present lives, and how affected Elizabeth found herself when she learned about Darcy’s past with this woman. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t want to see Elizabeth suffer any significant long-term unhappiness from these dealings; sometimes it’s just good to watch her realize that she’s not the only fish in the sea when it comes to Darcy’s attentions.
Ms. Lilian does a lovely job executing her sketch of the Darcys’ new marriage, as she allows us to experience the trials and tribulations that occur when two head-strong and attractive people find themselves in a situation that can either draw them together or pull them even further apart from each other. She allows us to experience the emotions, the conversations and the very intimate mature adult moments where the line in crossed from a marriage of convenience into one between two intelligent and caring people who find their places within the lovingly rendered portrait of their very own lives.
The only part of the story that felt a bit “forced” for me were the connections between Darcy and Elizabeth from ten years ago in Brighton to their present day lives. I know other readers didn’t seem to mind this connection, but I often have difficulty connecting with storylines that bring Darcy and Elizabeth together before the Meryton Assembly. However, this didn’t interfere with my enjoyment of the overall story, as it’s one that I know many readers, including myself, will happily read again!
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
When I started reading JAFF last year, one of the very first authors that I was fortunate to discover was Lory Lilian. After enjoying nearly all of her books, I was looking forward to reading her latest novel, “Sketching Mr. Darcy.” It’s my pleasure to say that this latest book will not disappoint her fans! Here, Ms. Lilian once again delivers for us her signature style, which includes a long and winding story filled with wonderful misunderstandings and challenging obstacles for her characters, with plenty of steamy romance, some new and intriguing characters, all contained within a plot that keeps us gladly reading until the very end of this book.
Ms. Lilian begins her story during the summer of 1801, where we meet a young Elizabeth Bennett, who is vacationing in Brighton with her aunt and uncle Gardiner, and her sister, Jane. The Darcy family also happens to be vacationing in Brighton and a chance meeting occurs between these two parties. During this vacation, Elizabeth, and her puppy, become involved in an accident and as she frantically tries to save her dog, a mysterious gentleman saves them. Since Elizabeth is unable to uncover the identity of the man, she recalls her memories of him in her journal. These memories stay within her heart and mind for a very long time…
As we flash forward to 1811, we meet Elizabeth and her family in Meryton, along with Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy, who are also in Meryton, visiting Bingley’s estate, Netherfield. After an unfortunate incident occurs involving Elizabeth, and she is rescued by Mr. Darcy, they both start to worry that rumors will circulate around Meryton about this “compromising” rescue. Unfortunately, for everyone involved, rumors do begin to circulate around London and they are about Darcy and Elizabeth, which eventually causes them to enter into a “forced” marriage. As Mr. Darcy has already formed an “attachment” of his own to an unsuspecting Elizabeth, he is not as “forced” into this arrangement as Elizabeth believes he has been through these circumstances.
I typically love forced marriage scenario stories because we have the pleasure of watching Darcy and Elizabeth spend a lot of time together, up close and personal, in lots of awkward, and sometimes intimate moments, mentally and physically exploring each other as they decide whether or not they can reach the long-awaited achievement of allowing their relationship to evolve into a trusting and loving marriage. I can confidently state that Ms. Lilian scores on each of these levels within this arrangement.
Back in London, and now that they are newly married, Darcy and Elizabeth find themselves spending time with their family and friends. Elizabeth becomes well-acquainted with her new staff at their townhouse and Darcy learns to allow her to grow into this role as she exercises her confidence and her intelligence to handle various household matters. Through interactions such as these, Elizabeth comes to sketch a more accurate picture of Darcy’s character, as she comes to realize that she likes what she see in him. Being around Darcy also allows him to demonstrate his more worthy, and sometimes his not-so-worthy qualities; yet, it is this mixture of complexities that allow Elizabeth to understand the extent of his duties and responsibilities, which have shaped her husband into the man he is today.
As the eldest cousin to a young man named James Darcy, Mr. Darcy spends quite a bit of time helping his cousin manage his holdings and his estate; however, James is an immature and irresponsible young man who only has his own interests in mind, so he takes advantage of Darcy’s generosity to the detriment of both gentlemen. He also finds himself tangled in a situation that he regrets, as he learns the hard way to come to know the value of his cousin’s truest nature.
I loved that Ms. Lilian included a storyline where Darcy had a past lover. It’s not a storyline we revel in often, and yet, I always believed that Darcy never came to his marriage as an “innocent” man. It makes sense that as a man of his social standing and wealth, that his closet would have a few skeletons hanging alongside his waistcoats. I hate to admit this, but I did enjoy witnessing Elizabeth’s jealousy as she had to grapple with the trouble this other woman was attempting to cause in their present lives, and how affected Elizabeth found herself when she learned about Darcy’s past with this woman. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t want to see Elizabeth suffer any significant long-term unhappiness from these dealings; sometimes it’s just good to watch her realize that she’s not the only fish in the sea when it comes to Darcy’s attentions.
Ms. Lilian does a lovely job executing her sketch of the Darcys’ new marriage, as she allows us to experience the trials and tribulations that occur when two head-strong and attractive people find themselves in a situation that can either draw them together or pull them even further apart from each other. She allows us to experience the emotions, the conversations and the very intimate mature adult moments where the line in crossed from a marriage of convenience into one between two intelligent and caring people who find their places within the lovingly rendered portrait of their very own lives.
The only part of the story that felt a bit “forced” for me were the connections between Darcy and Elizabeth from ten years ago in Brighton to their present day lives. I know other readers didn’t seem to mind this connection, but I often have difficulty connecting with storylines that bring Darcy and Elizabeth together before the Meryton Assembly. However, this didn’t interfere with my enjoyment of the overall story, as it’s one that I know many readers, including myself, will happily read again!
December 20, 2015
I had wondered why I never read a book where Mr. Darcy would find out about Elizabeth’s refusal of Mr. Collins’ offer right after it occurred. It was always something I thought I would enjoy reading about.
Lory Lilian finally made it real! It wasn’t what I expected or imagined because the consequences of such information were practically inexistent, but still, this was an excellent beginning and kept me interested in the book.
What if Mr. Darcy encountered Lizzie on the day of his departure from Netherfield and she was freezing and completely wet from falling into a pond? He would obviously help her, and assist her to get home, but what if rumours were to start from there?
Mr. Darcy would be bound by honour to make Elizabeth an offer of marriage, and taking into consideration the rumours…she would have to accept.
This is how Sketching Mr. Darcy starts, and in my opinion it is a very good idea. I liked the premise and I loved the fact that Mr. Darcy did not change after being engaged to Elizabeth. He continue to be himself, but as she got to know him better, she got to understand him.
At first, I did not enjoy having Darcy proposing to Elizabeth without admitting to anyone, not even himself that he was in love with her. I believed this would take away the intensity of the book. But it didn’t, by the contrary, it was essential to create an atmosphere of true understanding, respect and love between both characters.
Instead of having Darcy loving Elizabeth and trying to make her love him, we see Darcy also falling in love with Elizabeth. We see him finding many aspects to love in Elizabeth and not just her wit and playfulness. This was something I really loved. Lory Lilian was able to create a very solid story with a profound character development. For example, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy do argue at times, but their arguments are actually based on relevant aspects. Unlike many books where the argument is not valid, credible or important, but just based on some childish stubbornness by one or the other, in this book we see arguments with a valid foundation.
Also, even though some readers might find the book a little too slow paced, there was always something to look forward to in it. When the author answered what we wanted to read, she immediately created another situation that we wanted to see unfolded.
The entire book was well structured. And the characters were perfect. This Darcy was perfect and Elizabeth as well. I found her struggle between behaving as Elizabeth Bennett would have or as Elizabeth Darcy should quite interesting.
The new characters were a plus as well, Annabelle Stratford was a good addition to create some jealousy, but also to demonstrate the strength of their love and the impressive way how Elizabeth could handle situations.
I did love the book. Lory Lillian was always one author that kept appearing on my must read list, but for some reason, I never read anything from her until this month. I wish I had done it before, as she is definitely one author worth reading!
Lory Lilian finally made it real! It wasn’t what I expected or imagined because the consequences of such information were practically inexistent, but still, this was an excellent beginning and kept me interested in the book.
What if Mr. Darcy encountered Lizzie on the day of his departure from Netherfield and she was freezing and completely wet from falling into a pond? He would obviously help her, and assist her to get home, but what if rumours were to start from there?
Mr. Darcy would be bound by honour to make Elizabeth an offer of marriage, and taking into consideration the rumours…she would have to accept.
This is how Sketching Mr. Darcy starts, and in my opinion it is a very good idea. I liked the premise and I loved the fact that Mr. Darcy did not change after being engaged to Elizabeth. He continue to be himself, but as she got to know him better, she got to understand him.
At first, I did not enjoy having Darcy proposing to Elizabeth without admitting to anyone, not even himself that he was in love with her. I believed this would take away the intensity of the book. But it didn’t, by the contrary, it was essential to create an atmosphere of true understanding, respect and love between both characters.
Instead of having Darcy loving Elizabeth and trying to make her love him, we see Darcy also falling in love with Elizabeth. We see him finding many aspects to love in Elizabeth and not just her wit and playfulness. This was something I really loved. Lory Lilian was able to create a very solid story with a profound character development. For example, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy do argue at times, but their arguments are actually based on relevant aspects. Unlike many books where the argument is not valid, credible or important, but just based on some childish stubbornness by one or the other, in this book we see arguments with a valid foundation.
Also, even though some readers might find the book a little too slow paced, there was always something to look forward to in it. When the author answered what we wanted to read, she immediately created another situation that we wanted to see unfolded.
The entire book was well structured. And the characters were perfect. This Darcy was perfect and Elizabeth as well. I found her struggle between behaving as Elizabeth Bennett would have or as Elizabeth Darcy should quite interesting.
The new characters were a plus as well, Annabelle Stratford was a good addition to create some jealousy, but also to demonstrate the strength of their love and the impressive way how Elizabeth could handle situations.
I did love the book. Lory Lillian was always one author that kept appearing on my must read list, but for some reason, I never read anything from her until this month. I wish I had done it before, as she is definitely one author worth reading!
December 31, 2019
Pride and Prejudice variation
This is an excellent example of how a "forced marriage scenario" can be written. I absolutely loved it!
In this variation, ODC meet as children, pre canon and an event happen that will have influence, later in the story.
We enter canon at Mr Collins proposal. Elizabeth went for a walk afterwards and had an accident. Darcy turned up as the knight in shining armour but as no good deed goes unpunished, they are soon the victims of malicious roumers, leading to their marriage.
I adored the way their relationship developed. With plausibility for such a scenario and with a lot of warmth and tender moments. Sigh...
That does not mean that it was all smooth sailing. A former paramour of Darcy was lurking in the shadows and miss Bingley created havoc on their tentative truce, in addition they has their fair share of unpleasant relatives. A new character, James Darcy, Mr Darcy's cousin and Lady Catherine was particularly troublesome.
Heartily recommend this book!
This is an excellent example of how a "forced marriage scenario" can be written. I absolutely loved it!
In this variation, ODC meet as children, pre canon and an event happen that will have influence, later in the story.
We enter canon at Mr Collins proposal. Elizabeth went for a walk afterwards and had an accident. Darcy turned up as the knight in shining armour but as no good deed goes unpunished, they are soon the victims of malicious roumers, leading to their marriage.
I adored the way their relationship developed. With plausibility for such a scenario and with a lot of warmth and tender moments. Sigh...
That does not mean that it was all smooth sailing. A former paramour of Darcy was lurking in the shadows and miss Bingley created havoc on their tentative truce, in addition they has their fair share of unpleasant relatives. A new character, James Darcy, Mr Darcy's cousin and Lady Catherine was particularly troublesome.
Heartily recommend this book!
July 5, 2016
Although I liked this book and some of the unique differences between it and some other P&P variances, I feel like it dragged on for too long. The book could easily have been 2/3 its length if the characters would have only just spoke to each other instead of "too much distressing topics today, I'll tell you about it tomorrow" kind of conversations which then of course caused unnecessary drama due to poor communication. The book would have been fine and could easily have stood out on its own with out some of that unnecessary drama. Especially when Mr. Darcy acted more like a broody teenager with an attitude problem who was incapable of hearing anything besides what he wanted to hear to fit the agenda in his mind. We all know what JA's Mr Darcy is like but I think this was taking some of his worst qualities, emphasizing them, and then making them his dominate qualities. Made it hard to like him in my opinion.
October 15, 2017
The story dragged on for too long. Too much of the story takes place in the first week of D&E’s marriage and it felt like it had been going on for months instead.
The many plot lines didn’t weave together very well. I found myself ticking them all off one by one as they were each resolved.
The jealous other woman trope was silly. The character was built up as this huge trouble maker, but her part of the story just sort of fizzled out.
I did not like the complete 180 Darcy took in the middle of the book. His jealous tirade was out of character even for his already established OOCness.
There was too much apologizing between D&E! The back and forth between them of who was the most to blame in every. single. instance was annoying.
“I’m sorry.”
“No, don’t apologize, it’s my fault.”
“No, it’s my fault.”
Pages and pages of this.
The many plot lines didn’t weave together very well. I found myself ticking them all off one by one as they were each resolved.
The jealous other woman trope was silly. The character was built up as this huge trouble maker, but her part of the story just sort of fizzled out.
I did not like the complete 180 Darcy took in the middle of the book. His jealous tirade was out of character even for his already established OOCness.
There was too much apologizing between D&E! The back and forth between them of who was the most to blame in every. single. instance was annoying.
“I’m sorry.”
“No, don’t apologize, it’s my fault.”
“No, it’s my fault.”
Pages and pages of this.
May 1, 2021
A good book, well written and all.
However there wasn’t enough antagonism between ODC and no surprises. After the wedding and their first days in London I was discouraged to see there was still 80% of the book to read, although they were already getting on well etc.
However there wasn’t enough antagonism between ODC and no surprises. After the wedding and their first days in London I was discouraged to see there was still 80% of the book to read, although they were already getting on well etc.
October 21, 2015
The concept of this variation had the couple together early and then learn to love each other. I liked Elizabeth's strong character and the bit of mystery in this book.
August 17, 2015
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Una variación que se torna una ruta alternativa del clásico Orgullo y prejuicio de Jane Austen, donde un incidente obliga a Elizabeth y Darcy a entrar en un matrimonio forzado. Esta historia lo tiene todo, mucho romanticismo pero también otros elementos que la hacen muy entretenida y divertida, encontraremos pasajes llenos de picardía, humor, sarcasmo y una buena dosis de aventura. Una narrativa muy fluída y con muchos giros.
La autora nos pone como centro de la historia a Elizabeth y Darcy mostrando un abanico de interacciones, pero lo que da más profundidad a la historia son los distintos personajes que participan en ella, sobre todo los creados por la autora. Hay muchos momentos muy variopintos de tristeza, alegría, ternura, amor, sacrificio, valentía, testarudez,... sobre todo, un constante aprendizaje.
Lory Lilian con su Sketching Mr. Darcy intenta darnos su versión personal de cómo los personajes principales llegan a un profundo conocimiento del uno por el otro, manteniendo sus carácteres, aportando la interacción con los personajes que la autora crea. En ese intento nos esboza de cómo Elizabeth interioriza con su señor Darcy, el cual no es un proceso rápido sino pausado, detalle a detalle, hecho a hecho, y aunque disfruté de todo ello, lo que más me fascinó fueron sus propios personajes que le dieron mucha vida a toda la historia. No faltó una dama rica y vanidosa con mucha osadía intentando ser una dura rival para Elizabeth, unos niños con habilidades especiales que serán importantes en la vida de los Darcys, un segundo señor Darcy que intenta rivalizar en cualidades con el señor Wickham y serán unas verdadera pesadilla, unas mascotas que nos harán reir con sus interacciones...
En este tipo de historias no faltan las decepciones, dudas, errores, malos entendidos, mucha dosis de romance, pero tiene otros ingredientes que la hace especial como puede ser cierto misterio en el desarrollo de los hechos y su desenlace; una gran dosis de aventura como pueden ser los secuestros, la intimidación, los celos, tramas maquiavélicas; encontraréis también escenas explícitas de sexo que se podrían obviar, pero tienen su punto de justificación y me gustó que están bien descritas, cuidando los detalles para hacerlas verosímiles; y hubo muchos giros del pasado que marcaron el presente en la vida de los personajes.
No encontraréis datos históricos pero sí un desarrollo de los personajes desde aquellos puntos que Jane Austen recalca en su novela, como son las conexiones, el orgullo, la vanidad, la censura por no ser un caballero y sí un comerciante, la educación, el decoro, el rango,... todos ellos, Lory Lilian los trata con su especial visión plasmadas en situaciones reales, concretas y prácticas, cómo pueden convertirse en un sin sentido ante las acciones de las personas, a pesar de que suelan expresar lo contrario.
El ritmo es delirante porque te lleva del romanticismo más puro a la acción, a pesar de que no tener grandes dosis de angustia, pero no le falta ese toque de intriga que te mantiene enganchado, sobre todo porque está todo muy bien atado y encajado sin forzar ninguna actuación.
Portada:
La portada es representativa de su contenido: la imagen del señor Darcy sin definir y por eso aparece solo una sombra. El fondo es abstracto y connota la época en que se desarrolla la historia, así como la tipografía. El resto de elementos están perfectamente encajados con una composición acertada. En general tiene una bonita estética y está bien equilibrada, aunque la imagen en forma de sombra del personaje no termina de armonizar con el resto del diseño, aún así el concepto está bien planteado.
Una variación que se torna una ruta alternativa del clásico Orgullo y prejuicio de Jane Austen, donde un incidente obliga a Elizabeth y Darcy a entrar en un matrimonio forzado. Esta historia lo tiene todo, mucho romanticismo pero también otros elementos que la hacen muy entretenida y divertida, encontraremos pasajes llenos de picardía, humor, sarcasmo y una buena dosis de aventura. Una narrativa muy fluída y con muchos giros.
La autora nos pone como centro de la historia a Elizabeth y Darcy mostrando un abanico de interacciones, pero lo que da más profundidad a la historia son los distintos personajes que participan en ella, sobre todo los creados por la autora. Hay muchos momentos muy variopintos de tristeza, alegría, ternura, amor, sacrificio, valentía, testarudez,... sobre todo, un constante aprendizaje.
Lory Lilian con su Sketching Mr. Darcy intenta darnos su versión personal de cómo los personajes principales llegan a un profundo conocimiento del uno por el otro, manteniendo sus carácteres, aportando la interacción con los personajes que la autora crea. En ese intento nos esboza de cómo Elizabeth interioriza con su señor Darcy, el cual no es un proceso rápido sino pausado, detalle a detalle, hecho a hecho, y aunque disfruté de todo ello, lo que más me fascinó fueron sus propios personajes que le dieron mucha vida a toda la historia. No faltó una dama rica y vanidosa con mucha osadía intentando ser una dura rival para Elizabeth, unos niños con habilidades especiales que serán importantes en la vida de los Darcys, un segundo señor Darcy que intenta rivalizar en cualidades con el señor Wickham y serán unas verdadera pesadilla, unas mascotas que nos harán reir con sus interacciones...
En este tipo de historias no faltan las decepciones, dudas, errores, malos entendidos, mucha dosis de romance, pero tiene otros ingredientes que la hace especial como puede ser cierto misterio en el desarrollo de los hechos y su desenlace; una gran dosis de aventura como pueden ser los secuestros, la intimidación, los celos, tramas maquiavélicas; encontraréis también escenas explícitas de sexo que se podrían obviar, pero tienen su punto de justificación y me gustó que están bien descritas, cuidando los detalles para hacerlas verosímiles; y hubo muchos giros del pasado que marcaron el presente en la vida de los personajes.
No encontraréis datos históricos pero sí un desarrollo de los personajes desde aquellos puntos que Jane Austen recalca en su novela, como son las conexiones, el orgullo, la vanidad, la censura por no ser un caballero y sí un comerciante, la educación, el decoro, el rango,... todos ellos, Lory Lilian los trata con su especial visión plasmadas en situaciones reales, concretas y prácticas, cómo pueden convertirse en un sin sentido ante las acciones de las personas, a pesar de que suelan expresar lo contrario.
El ritmo es delirante porque te lleva del romanticismo más puro a la acción, a pesar de que no tener grandes dosis de angustia, pero no le falta ese toque de intriga que te mantiene enganchado, sobre todo porque está todo muy bien atado y encajado sin forzar ninguna actuación.
Portada:
La portada es representativa de su contenido: la imagen del señor Darcy sin definir y por eso aparece solo una sombra. El fondo es abstracto y connota la época en que se desarrolla la historia, así como la tipografía. El resto de elementos están perfectamente encajados con una composición acertada. En general tiene una bonita estética y está bien equilibrada, aunque la imagen en forma de sombra del personaje no termina de armonizar con el resto del diseño, aún así el concepto está bien planteado.
August 9, 2015
4.5
This is another variation that sees Elizabeth and Darcy married very early on, as they feel compromised due to some rumors in London about Mr. Darcy saving her life (and by doing that, he obviously compromised her...). The premise of this book, although not very inventive as I have read quite a few compromising Elizabeth book lately, is still given five stars because I find it different.
Why I love this version: It has a darling sub story where Elizabeth actually meets Georgiana and Lady Anne when she was ten years old. It was a very cute story, and in this story she had just received a puppy. The puppy almost drowns. and as Elizabeth tries to save the puppy, she almost drowns. Some unknown young gentlemen saves them....
But that's all discovered much later. Darcy saves Elizabeth again when he comes to stay in Hertfordshire. Because of the circumstances he has to carry her on his horse, and take her back to Longbourn holding her close to his chest. Although Elizabeth is very appreciative and thankful to Mr. Darcy, none of them think too much on the gossip that might ensue, and Darcy still flees to London to escape her pull on him. There he hears the gossip, and we are introduced to some interesting new characters. Darcy starts to feel concerned about the rumors he is hearing about the incident, and evetually is so agitated he goes back to Longbourn to offer for Elizabeth.
I know so far this has been more of a synopsis, than what I loved, but I loved all of it really. Although Elizabeth is forced into this situation she accepts it with grace and courage. Elizabeth and Darcy are determined to make the best of the situation and marriage. It is so touching to see what she does to try and make a happy home between her and the Darcy siblings. She is so giving and kind, even though she is stressed by the situation, and not in love with Darcy (at that point). I love the variations that Elizabeth is a strong individual...not a brat. This variation nailed it. I loved the kids Peter and Libby, and I loved the dogs even, Lucky and Titan. I thought they brought more depth to this story, and added to it's overall charm.
What I was not fond of: So why am I considering giving it only a 4.5 instead? Well although I like Elizabeth in this story, and I think she's very sensible and reasonable, she's also a bit prudish. It started to annoy me that she seemed to lose all her confidence even before her and Darcy consummated their marriage. She seemed confident and strong everywhere else, so it felt off that she all of a sudden would feel shameful and completely abashed by expressing her feelings to her husband. They were actually really good communicators...so this felt weird, and got very boring. I tried to remind myself that at this point still they had only been married two weeks. That's right... about 90% of this entire book essentially takes places in a month. So then I am like...well she is still newly married...but so much happens during that time period, that it feels like it they've been together for months already rather than two weeks. So I don't know if it's really her being prudish, or just that the timing is strange. I don't know. It's really only a minor complaint. This was a very lovely variation and I'll read it again :)
This is another variation that sees Elizabeth and Darcy married very early on, as they feel compromised due to some rumors in London about Mr. Darcy saving her life (and by doing that, he obviously compromised her...). The premise of this book, although not very inventive as I have read quite a few compromising Elizabeth book lately, is still given five stars because I find it different.
Why I love this version: It has a darling sub story where Elizabeth actually meets Georgiana and Lady Anne when she was ten years old. It was a very cute story, and in this story she had just received a puppy. The puppy almost drowns. and as Elizabeth tries to save the puppy, she almost drowns. Some unknown young gentlemen saves them....
But that's all discovered much later. Darcy saves Elizabeth again when he comes to stay in Hertfordshire. Because of the circumstances he has to carry her on his horse, and take her back to Longbourn holding her close to his chest. Although Elizabeth is very appreciative and thankful to Mr. Darcy, none of them think too much on the gossip that might ensue, and Darcy still flees to London to escape her pull on him. There he hears the gossip, and we are introduced to some interesting new characters. Darcy starts to feel concerned about the rumors he is hearing about the incident, and evetually is so agitated he goes back to Longbourn to offer for Elizabeth.
I know so far this has been more of a synopsis, than what I loved, but I loved all of it really. Although Elizabeth is forced into this situation she accepts it with grace and courage. Elizabeth and Darcy are determined to make the best of the situation and marriage. It is so touching to see what she does to try and make a happy home between her and the Darcy siblings. She is so giving and kind, even though she is stressed by the situation, and not in love with Darcy (at that point). I love the variations that Elizabeth is a strong individual...not a brat. This variation nailed it. I loved the kids Peter and Libby, and I loved the dogs even, Lucky and Titan. I thought they brought more depth to this story, and added to it's overall charm.
What I was not fond of: So why am I considering giving it only a 4.5 instead? Well although I like Elizabeth in this story, and I think she's very sensible and reasonable, she's also a bit prudish. It started to annoy me that she seemed to lose all her confidence even before her and Darcy consummated their marriage. She seemed confident and strong everywhere else, so it felt off that she all of a sudden would feel shameful and completely abashed by expressing her feelings to her husband. They were actually really good communicators...so this felt weird, and got very boring. I tried to remind myself that at this point still they had only been married two weeks. That's right... about 90% of this entire book essentially takes places in a month. So then I am like...well she is still newly married...but so much happens during that time period, that it feels like it they've been together for months already rather than two weeks. So I don't know if it's really her being prudish, or just that the timing is strange. I don't know. It's really only a minor complaint. This was a very lovely variation and I'll read it again :)
March 2, 2019
I'm a bit conflicted about this book. Initially I liked the writing style and the premise was interesting. Great potential for a good story. But I started to feel like the story dragged. It seemed like a long time had passed and it had really just been a day. I liked the early part of the book much better than the latter. I liked that Darcy and Elizabeth were both committed to making their marriage work and didn't try to take the easy way out by ignoring each other or Lizzy leaving and going to Longborn.
What I didn't like was that so much of the story was either about not having sex or having sex. I'm not interested in reading about other people's sex and I started skipping over sexual scenes and in some cases it was pages and pages. I'd much rather the married couple have some nice kisses and shut the door. I know that is just me and other's love all the sensuality but I'm not interested in it. And once they finally consummate the marriage then it felt like it was all about sex all the time even as other things were going on.
There was lots of drama and angst, first in their relationship as they had some doozy fights as one might imagine with Darcy and Elizabeth but then there were side stories that were dramatic and angst ridden as well. The side story of Darcy being chased by other women I could kind of see because it showed Elizabeth's strength in handling difficult people and coming into her role as Mrs. Darcy. It did seem to be a little over the top though. However, the whole thing with Lady Catherine was way over the top and made me not really enjoy the end part of the book. Maybe it brought Elizabeth around to vocalizing her love for Darcy but I feel like that could have happened without so much over the top stuff.
I loved the prologue and the dogs and the kids and the idea of Darcy truly being Elizabeth's hero and she is his as well.
If not for all the sex I probably would have given this three stars but when I skip pages of reading in a book they lose a star.
What I didn't like was that so much of the story was either about not having sex or having sex. I'm not interested in reading about other people's sex and I started skipping over sexual scenes and in some cases it was pages and pages. I'd much rather the married couple have some nice kisses and shut the door. I know that is just me and other's love all the sensuality but I'm not interested in it. And once they finally consummate the marriage then it felt like it was all about sex all the time even as other things were going on.
There was lots of drama and angst, first in their relationship as they had some doozy fights as one might imagine with Darcy and Elizabeth but then there were side stories that were dramatic and angst ridden as well. The side story of Darcy being chased by other women I could kind of see because it showed Elizabeth's strength in handling difficult people and coming into her role as Mrs. Darcy. It did seem to be a little over the top though. However, the whole thing with Lady Catherine was way over the top and made me not really enjoy the end part of the book. Maybe it brought Elizabeth around to vocalizing her love for Darcy but I feel like that could have happened without so much over the top stuff.
I loved the prologue and the dogs and the kids and the idea of Darcy truly being Elizabeth's hero and she is his as well.
If not for all the sex I probably would have given this three stars but when I skip pages of reading in a book they lose a star.
July 17, 2019
I really loved certain aspects of this book and not so much others. I thought the rescuing of Lizzy as a child and how it tied into the story was really sweet. I also loved the dogs! It was so endearing that the dogs were part of the family and thus a significant part of the story! My favorite thing was how this book illustrated the responsibility and burden of being a responsible and good master. Lizzy always tells Darcy, and events in the book support this, that he always thinks of everything. She points out at one point that people envy wealthy, powerful men and only see them living "the good life"receiving deference and enjoying themselves, but she realizes by observing Darcy that there is so much more to it than that. She sees the hours of hard work, sacrifice and dedication that doesn't show up on the surface.
Since this is a forced marriage situation, they begin their marriage with a promise to get to know each other and give each other a chance and make every effort to gain a happy marriage. Because there was no courtship, Darcy gives her time to learn to love and respect him before they consummate the marriage. This is where my problem lies. Once this happens, the book takes a bad turn and feels it has to describe in detail every sexual encounter from there on out in great detail the whole rest of the book. This really is a pet peeve of mine. I don't mind some steamy scenes, but is it really necessary to be so graphic, and if so, do we need to hear said descriptions over and over again. I, for one, do not and it really robs the book from the sweet love story that we started off with. Lets leave a little bit to the imagination and not turn sweet into trashy. Maybe this is an unpopular opinion, but Jane Austen created this amazing and timeless love story with these characters that we love and adore and respect and to me, Lizzy and Darcy are sacred and I hate when they are cheapened by lots of dirty sex. I'm sorry, but I felt that needed to be said!
Since this is a forced marriage situation, they begin their marriage with a promise to get to know each other and give each other a chance and make every effort to gain a happy marriage. Because there was no courtship, Darcy gives her time to learn to love and respect him before they consummate the marriage. This is where my problem lies. Once this happens, the book takes a bad turn and feels it has to describe in detail every sexual encounter from there on out in great detail the whole rest of the book. This really is a pet peeve of mine. I don't mind some steamy scenes, but is it really necessary to be so graphic, and if so, do we need to hear said descriptions over and over again. I, for one, do not and it really robs the book from the sweet love story that we started off with. Lets leave a little bit to the imagination and not turn sweet into trashy. Maybe this is an unpopular opinion, but Jane Austen created this amazing and timeless love story with these characters that we love and adore and respect and to me, Lizzy and Darcy are sacred and I hate when they are cheapened by lots of dirty sex. I'm sorry, but I felt that needed to be said!
July 17, 2019
3.5
The start of the story is brilliant. I initially thought this would be a 4 or 5 book. It’s a shame that the Brighton plot wasn’t given a better part in the novel, because it becomes lost amongst the drama and I actually rolled my eyes at Elizabeth’s reaction to the truth. The author definitely has talent. There are some great scenes and good writing. However she gets carried away by drama. There are far too many crazy plot lines for one novel so that it all becomes a bit farcical. They should have been separated into 2 books, it would be more enjoyable. Darcy and Elizabeth are also a bit over dramatic at times, with childish reactions to conflict, jealousy, and a kind of obsessive teenager-like idea of love. The timescale of the novel adds to this feeling. Some of their interactions are lovely (the notes eg). Others are a bit much. Sex scenes were actually kind of boring - sometimes it’s better just to close the door and let imagination do the work. There were a number times when people seemed a bit too informal and free, in particular the use of single ladies first names and Bingley telling strangers about Lydia. I am not sure certain things were totally in keeping with Regency mores. The editing worsens as the book continues. I was a bit torn about the rating. I feel like I had a reaction to the story, I would probably read the author (though not the book) again, and it had enough good parts to make it better than a 3, but too many faults to go to 4.
The start of the story is brilliant. I initially thought this would be a 4 or 5 book. It’s a shame that the Brighton plot wasn’t given a better part in the novel, because it becomes lost amongst the drama and I actually rolled my eyes at Elizabeth’s reaction to the truth. The author definitely has talent. There are some great scenes and good writing. However she gets carried away by drama. There are far too many crazy plot lines for one novel so that it all becomes a bit farcical. They should have been separated into 2 books, it would be more enjoyable. Darcy and Elizabeth are also a bit over dramatic at times, with childish reactions to conflict, jealousy, and a kind of obsessive teenager-like idea of love. The timescale of the novel adds to this feeling. Some of their interactions are lovely (the notes eg). Others are a bit much. Sex scenes were actually kind of boring - sometimes it’s better just to close the door and let imagination do the work. There were a number times when people seemed a bit too informal and free, in particular the use of single ladies first names and Bingley telling strangers about Lydia. I am not sure certain things were totally in keeping with Regency mores. The editing worsens as the book continues. I was a bit torn about the rating. I feel like I had a reaction to the story, I would probably read the author (though not the book) again, and it had enough good parts to make it better than a 3, but too many faults to go to 4.
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