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Reckless, Headstrong Girl: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
A scandalous flight, an inconsiderate couple—
How can things have gone so terribly wrong for Lydia Bennet?
In Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice, Lydia Bennet runs away from Brighton with George Wickham, but this adaptation of Lydia’s adventures is not your typical story about this brash couple.
Mr. Wickham, proving he is no gentleman, does the unthinkable and casts Lydia out of a second-rate coach. Filthy, exhausted, and penniless, Lydia is just facing the beginning of her ordeal! How can a spoiled, uneducated girl of fifteen—used to having her way—survive a night in the wilds of Sussex?
As Mr. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner vainly search for her in London, Lydia’s sisters struggle to keep her secret from their Meryton neighbors. Though they fear the worst—that Lydia’s wild life has ended in tragedy—all hope is not lost. Mr. Darcy, in the midst of reigniting his courtship with Elizabeth Bennet, is determined to recover his love’s unfortunate sibling.
Will Mr. Darcy succeed in finding Lydia and restoring her to respectability? In what shocking condition will this catastrophe render such a reckless, headstrong girl?
How can things have gone so terribly wrong for Lydia Bennet?
In Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice, Lydia Bennet runs away from Brighton with George Wickham, but this adaptation of Lydia’s adventures is not your typical story about this brash couple.
Mr. Wickham, proving he is no gentleman, does the unthinkable and casts Lydia out of a second-rate coach. Filthy, exhausted, and penniless, Lydia is just facing the beginning of her ordeal! How can a spoiled, uneducated girl of fifteen—used to having her way—survive a night in the wilds of Sussex?
As Mr. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner vainly search for her in London, Lydia’s sisters struggle to keep her secret from their Meryton neighbors. Though they fear the worst—that Lydia’s wild life has ended in tragedy—all hope is not lost. Mr. Darcy, in the midst of reigniting his courtship with Elizabeth Bennet, is determined to recover his love’s unfortunate sibling.
Will Mr. Darcy succeed in finding Lydia and restoring her to respectability? In what shocking condition will this catastrophe render such a reckless, headstrong girl?
100 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 27, 2021
90 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
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February 24, 2021
“Headstrong is just a word […] others call you when you don’t do what they want.” –Jennifer Donnelly, These Shallow Graves
This review may contain **Spoilers** Rating: PG-17: adult themes: trigger warning for a near assault, violence toward women: discussions of an adult nature. Our girl may have kept her virtue; however, she was no longer an innocent. The scales were gone from her eyes and she was now seeing life clearly. Source: borrowed from KU
Lydia Bennet before: “Why do deprivation, adversity, scarcity, and suffering often produce the best character qualities in us while prosperity, ease, and abundance often produce the worst? There is an invisible pattern in the design of deprivation: deprivation draws out desire. Absence heightens it.” –Bianca Olthoff
To describe this wild child, I would begin with the words found in the title: reckless and headstrong. To that, I would add idle, ignorant, spoiled, silly, selfish, self-centered, demanding… etc. I could go on and on but I don’t have the room. She was a product of her father’s neglect and ridicule, and the overindulgence of a mother who lived vicariously through her lively actions. Everyone knew it was only a matter of time before Lydia shamed herself and her family. However, no one was quite prepared for what really happened.
Lydia After: “Never underestimate a determined woman!” –Nyki Mack
I have often thought that Lydia’s makeup was a combination of all her sisters if she would only draw from that well. That sentiment was never demonstrated more than it was in this story. Lydia possessed all the traits of her sisters and at one time or another, she was able to draw on those traits as she endured hardship and deprivation. This was a story of endurance, resilience, restoration, and redemption. I loved how this twig bent but did not break. Yes, she was changed forever; however, Lydia needed a reality check before she really did herself and her family harm. She also needed to see the flip side to the coin called Life and to the realities of what would happen when a person fell from grace and on hard times. I doubt Lydia will ever be able to wear a yellow or a red dress again. Our girl had a good look in the mirror and did not like what she saw.
The final chapter nearly broke my heart. I wanted to cry but they were tears of understanding and sympathy for a young girl, a child really, who had to face herself, her actions in how she treated others, and her willingness to survive in spite of the harshness thrown at her. When asked what she wanted… Lydia responded that she wanted her sister Lizzy. Not her father, mother, Jane, Mary, nor even Kitty; she wanted her sister Lizzy. Later in the chapter, I then saw why. I loved this Lizzy even more as she helped her sister understand and recover from such an ordeal. Only Lizzy could help her see things from a proper perspective. Oh yes, that was well done.
Remember the timeline for our P&P story and who actually found our girl. I can’t give a spoiler except to say, although there were changes to the canon account, there were several who received their happy-ever-after. Yeah, that made my heart go pitter-patter… or maybe that was the Mt. Dew I had earlier. Just saying. I highly recommend this story. I know a Lydia story is hard business; however, this one was worth it.
This book is part of the Skirmish & Scandal Series by Meryton Press
Schemes of Felicity: Suzan Lauder [pub 8-8-20]
Play With Fire: J. Marie Croft [pub 9-26-20]
Reckless Headstrong Girl: Grace Gibson [pub 1-27-21
A Consuming Love: Kelly Miller [pub 2-10-21]
This review may contain **Spoilers** Rating: PG-17: adult themes: trigger warning for a near assault, violence toward women: discussions of an adult nature. Our girl may have kept her virtue; however, she was no longer an innocent. The scales were gone from her eyes and she was now seeing life clearly. Source: borrowed from KU
Lydia Bennet before: “Why do deprivation, adversity, scarcity, and suffering often produce the best character qualities in us while prosperity, ease, and abundance often produce the worst? There is an invisible pattern in the design of deprivation: deprivation draws out desire. Absence heightens it.” –Bianca Olthoff
To describe this wild child, I would begin with the words found in the title: reckless and headstrong. To that, I would add idle, ignorant, spoiled, silly, selfish, self-centered, demanding… etc. I could go on and on but I don’t have the room. She was a product of her father’s neglect and ridicule, and the overindulgence of a mother who lived vicariously through her lively actions. Everyone knew it was only a matter of time before Lydia shamed herself and her family. However, no one was quite prepared for what really happened.
Lydia After: “Never underestimate a determined woman!” –Nyki Mack
I have often thought that Lydia’s makeup was a combination of all her sisters if she would only draw from that well. That sentiment was never demonstrated more than it was in this story. Lydia possessed all the traits of her sisters and at one time or another, she was able to draw on those traits as she endured hardship and deprivation. This was a story of endurance, resilience, restoration, and redemption. I loved how this twig bent but did not break. Yes, she was changed forever; however, Lydia needed a reality check before she really did herself and her family harm. She also needed to see the flip side to the coin called Life and to the realities of what would happen when a person fell from grace and on hard times. I doubt Lydia will ever be able to wear a yellow or a red dress again. Our girl had a good look in the mirror and did not like what she saw.
The final chapter nearly broke my heart. I wanted to cry but they were tears of understanding and sympathy for a young girl, a child really, who had to face herself, her actions in how she treated others, and her willingness to survive in spite of the harshness thrown at her. When asked what she wanted… Lydia responded that she wanted her sister Lizzy. Not her father, mother, Jane, Mary, nor even Kitty; she wanted her sister Lizzy. Later in the chapter, I then saw why. I loved this Lizzy even more as she helped her sister understand and recover from such an ordeal. Only Lizzy could help her see things from a proper perspective. Oh yes, that was well done.
Remember the timeline for our P&P story and who actually found our girl. I can’t give a spoiler except to say, although there were changes to the canon account, there were several who received their happy-ever-after. Yeah, that made my heart go pitter-patter… or maybe that was the Mt. Dew I had earlier. Just saying. I highly recommend this story. I know a Lydia story is hard business; however, this one was worth it.
This book is part of the Skirmish & Scandal Series by Meryton Press
Schemes of Felicity: Suzan Lauder [pub 8-8-20]
Play With Fire: J. Marie Croft [pub 9-26-20]
Reckless Headstrong Girl: Grace Gibson [pub 1-27-21
A Consuming Love: Kelly Miller [pub 2-10-21]
August 10, 2024
I am a wild, reckless, perhaps dishonourable fellow, but I have one soft spot in my heart, and that is for you. ~ Florence Marryat
If we substitute “girl” for “fellow” in the opening quote, we would have a pretty good description of Lydia Bennet.
In a burst of impetuousness, Lydia leaves Brighton in company with George Wickham. Her journey with the lieutenant is shortened considerably when he tires of her and throws her bodily from the carriage — after having removed the money from her reticule, of course.
The turning point in the process of growing up is when you discover the core of strength within you that survives all hurt. ~ Max Lerner
So, here is our Lydia — young, broke, and friendless far from home. It is surprising to her that no one is willing to help. Not a scrap of paper, not a drop of ink to write her parents, and certainly no food or shelter. Is it surprising to discover Lydia is sent to a workhouse?
In extreme circumstances, Lydia can no longer be a child. But can she change for the better? Or will she be otherwise influenced?
In most JAFF variations, I am unable to sympathize with Lydia’s fate. This is one of the exceptions. I recommend Lydia’s story to anyone who enjoys JAFF.
We shall draw from the heart of suffering itself the means of inspiration and survival. ~ Winston Churchill
If we substitute “girl” for “fellow” in the opening quote, we would have a pretty good description of Lydia Bennet.
In a burst of impetuousness, Lydia leaves Brighton in company with George Wickham. Her journey with the lieutenant is shortened considerably when he tires of her and throws her bodily from the carriage — after having removed the money from her reticule, of course.
The turning point in the process of growing up is when you discover the core of strength within you that survives all hurt. ~ Max Lerner
So, here is our Lydia — young, broke, and friendless far from home. It is surprising to her that no one is willing to help. Not a scrap of paper, not a drop of ink to write her parents, and certainly no food or shelter. Is it surprising to discover Lydia is sent to a workhouse?
In extreme circumstances, Lydia can no longer be a child. But can she change for the better? Or will she be otherwise influenced?
In most JAFF variations, I am unable to sympathize with Lydia’s fate. This is one of the exceptions. I recommend Lydia’s story to anyone who enjoys JAFF.
We shall draw from the heart of suffering itself the means of inspiration and survival. ~ Winston Churchill
March 6, 2021
5+ stars!
March 21, 2021
What if Lydia Bennet ran away with Wickham, but ended up on a separate, desperate adventure all alone? It might be the making of a Reckless, Headstrong Girl as well as the chance for her sister to get a second chance at love.
Reckless, Headstrong Girl is a novella in the Skirmish and Scandal collection and focuses on two of five Bennet sisters, Lydia and Elizabeth, from Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice. Lydia was to be enjoying the pleasures of seaside Brighton while Elizabeth traveled with her aunt and uncle visiting the sights of Derbyshire. Lydia is beguiled by Lt. Wickham, who is running from his debts, to run away with him. Her disappearance with Wickham breaks into a tentative romantic reconciliation for Darcy and Elizabeth when Elizabeth journeys to Pemberley and Lambton not expecting to meet there. Lydia breaks away from Wickham and has to survive by her wits, learning to appreciate her home and sisters while truly finding out who she is when faced with real adversity. Meanwhile, Elizabeth is dealing with regret and hoping that Lydia's elopement doesn't ruin everything.
If I was asked before listening to this which sister's story I would find more appealing, I would have said Elizabeth, but I would have been well and far off. Lydia was a sparkling gem of a heroine. She is silly and heedless, selfish and untried when she starts out, but by the time she is through I had so much respect for her. The author brought her along on a journey that was both internal and external with the conflict. She matures before the listener's eyes and it was engaging to see this as well as how her loss affected her family and made changes back home. I must say that the time when Darcy arrives on the scene with Lydia was just that little bit of extra goodness.
The story is swiftly paced due to the novella length and feels a little disjointed on the part away from Lydia so probably it is best if the reader is already familiar with the original P&P storyline so this doesn't get confusing. Much of the development and focus is on the irrepressible Lydia which, again, is a compelling, engaging story that runs the gamut of sadness, suspense, humor, and love. I can recommend it to Austen fans and those who enjoy a quick Regency era historical romance.
Stevie Zimmerman is a long familiar narrator who caught the light tone of the story while still delivering the emotional impact. I liked her distinct Lydia and Elizabeth voices and lost myself in her storytelling. I definitely hope to listen to more of her work.
Reckless, Headstrong Girl is a novella in the Skirmish and Scandal collection and focuses on two of five Bennet sisters, Lydia and Elizabeth, from Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice. Lydia was to be enjoying the pleasures of seaside Brighton while Elizabeth traveled with her aunt and uncle visiting the sights of Derbyshire. Lydia is beguiled by Lt. Wickham, who is running from his debts, to run away with him. Her disappearance with Wickham breaks into a tentative romantic reconciliation for Darcy and Elizabeth when Elizabeth journeys to Pemberley and Lambton not expecting to meet there. Lydia breaks away from Wickham and has to survive by her wits, learning to appreciate her home and sisters while truly finding out who she is when faced with real adversity. Meanwhile, Elizabeth is dealing with regret and hoping that Lydia's elopement doesn't ruin everything.
If I was asked before listening to this which sister's story I would find more appealing, I would have said Elizabeth, but I would have been well and far off. Lydia was a sparkling gem of a heroine. She is silly and heedless, selfish and untried when she starts out, but by the time she is through I had so much respect for her. The author brought her along on a journey that was both internal and external with the conflict. She matures before the listener's eyes and it was engaging to see this as well as how her loss affected her family and made changes back home. I must say that the time when Darcy arrives on the scene with Lydia was just that little bit of extra goodness.
The story is swiftly paced due to the novella length and feels a little disjointed on the part away from Lydia so probably it is best if the reader is already familiar with the original P&P storyline so this doesn't get confusing. Much of the development and focus is on the irrepressible Lydia which, again, is a compelling, engaging story that runs the gamut of sadness, suspense, humor, and love. I can recommend it to Austen fans and those who enjoy a quick Regency era historical romance.
Stevie Zimmerman is a long familiar narrator who caught the light tone of the story while still delivering the emotional impact. I liked her distinct Lydia and Elizabeth voices and lost myself in her storytelling. I definitely hope to listen to more of her work.
June 4, 2021
This is a glorious unique P&P what if that reminds me of the Wizard of Oz, Lydia gets a brain, Darcy & Bingley get courage and Lydia learns there is no place like home.
This takes a fantastical twist when during her elopement with Wickham Lydia puts up some resistance to his advances and ends up penniless on the hard ground of a coach road between Brighton and London. As we are all well aware Lydia Bennet is uniquely unprepared to cope with anything and in no time flat she is bonnet-less, possession-less, dirty,cold and starving. in her disarray she can't convince anyone of quality to stop and assist her and is turned away at an inn
R/N: If you haven't fallen to you knees and thanked your creator for being born in the 20th or 21st century get to it.
Eventually a poor potato farmer with a cart and donkey takes pity upon her and hauls her about West Sussex before turning her over to a Methodist Workhouse. Lydia is not at all pleased but quickly realizes that her upbringing and life style have made her an excellent work house resident.
Meanwhile Darcy and Lizzy; unaware of Lydia's folly are well on the way to an understanding which allows Darcy to be the hero and say "I'll solve your problems and come back for you" Then he sends Bingley to Meryton with Mrs. Gardiner and Lizzy. Bingley gets to be brilliant and clever
This is a lovely story that warmed the cockles of my cold dead heart
This takes a fantastical twist when during her elopement with Wickham Lydia puts up some resistance to his advances and ends up penniless on the hard ground of a coach road between Brighton and London. As we are all well aware Lydia Bennet is uniquely unprepared to cope with anything and in no time flat she is bonnet-less, possession-less, dirty,cold and starving. in her disarray she can't convince anyone of quality to stop and assist her and is turned away at an inn
R/N: If you haven't fallen to you knees and thanked your creator for being born in the 20th or 21st century get to it.
Eventually a poor potato farmer with a cart and donkey takes pity upon her and hauls her about West Sussex before turning her over to a Methodist Workhouse. Lydia is not at all pleased but quickly realizes that her upbringing and life style have made her an excellent work house resident.
Meanwhile Darcy and Lizzy; unaware of Lydia's folly are well on the way to an understanding which allows Darcy to be the hero and say "I'll solve your problems and come back for you" Then he sends Bingley to Meryton with Mrs. Gardiner and Lizzy. Bingley gets to be brilliant and clever
This is a lovely story that warmed the cockles of my cold dead heart
January 19, 2023
A Lydia Bennet Story
Grace Gibson writes a very good tale of Lydia’s survival, and the search undertaken to find her by those who care, after she is abandoned by Wickham on the road to London from Brighton.
I found this short story of Lydia’s reformation and awakening to reality very satisfying and well written. I love this author’s crisp, clear writing style, mixed with gentle humour and a good plot. I also highly recommend Silver Buckles, another Pride and Prejudice variation by Ms. Gibson.
September 19, 2022 - Audiobook
Excellent narration and performance by Stevie Zimmerman, as usual. I caught this novella on sale this week.
Grace Gibson writes a very good tale of Lydia’s survival, and the search undertaken to find her by those who care, after she is abandoned by Wickham on the road to London from Brighton.
I found this short story of Lydia’s reformation and awakening to reality very satisfying and well written. I love this author’s crisp, clear writing style, mixed with gentle humour and a good plot. I also highly recommend Silver Buckles, another Pride and Prejudice variation by Ms. Gibson.
September 19, 2022 - Audiobook
Excellent narration and performance by Stevie Zimmerman, as usual. I caught this novella on sale this week.
July 29, 2021
My Rating: 4.5*
Yes, Lydia Bennet is ripe for scandal in this 'Skirmish & Scandal' series. I was more than ready to see what Ms. Gibson had in store for our 'reckless, headstrong girl' after reading and loving 'Silver Buckles' and 'Old Boots'.
"Lydia had never been so happy in her life. To elope! With Wickham! (quote from the book)
La! This was not a fine joke! For not an hour in to their elopement, Mr. Wickham importunes her to shut her up, and she doesn't like it! She retaliates and soon finds herself on her rump outside the carriage with nothing but her bonnet and carpetbag...Wickham steals her five pounds too! Lost, alone and penniless, Lydia Bennet is at her wits end...and she really doesn't have many to begin with! How she survives the harsh realities that she soon faces, at least proves she has grit and some modicum of survival instinct.
"This scenario - that there were people in the world who did not sleep in a bed under a roof at night - struck her momentarily dumb." (quote from the book)
So what is done to recover Lydia once the Bennet family find out she has eloped? Let's just say that Mr. and Mrs. Bennet have reaped what they have sown...or not. As this takes place after the disastrous Hunsford proposal, we get to see an absolutely swoon-worthy scene between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. Actually, Mr. Darcy is a knight in shining armour. Sigh...
"Hindsight made for a dismal companion over the next couple of days." (quote from the book)
By the end of this book, I was in tears. Always an excellent indicator of how invested I am in a book. It started off a little slow, but considering the difficulty of finding a 'needle in a haystack' and only express riders for 'instant communication', and the trials and tribulations of not only Lydia but the family, it needed to. I would even hint that I would love to see a sequel to this story.
I highly recommend this story of 'enlightenment' on more than one front!
May 12, 2021
Lydia runs off with Wickham
Lydia runs off with W from Brighton, just like in P&P.
The change is he gets mad at L and kicks her out of the carriage.
Story is about what happens to L and about the people trying to find her or her body.
Original and an easy going kind of story telling. I enjoyed the book.
Lydia runs off with W from Brighton, just like in P&P.
The change is he gets mad at L and kicks her out of the carriage.
Story is about what happens to L and about the people trying to find her or her body.
Original and an easy going kind of story telling. I enjoyed the book.
March 13, 2021
As other reviews have stated I am not usually drawn to stories about Lydia. However, it was those reviews that convinced me that this would be a story I would enjoy. I have now read all the stories in the Skirmish & Scandal Series by Meryton Press, each written by a different author.
In this variation Lydia does elope with Wickham and shortly after they depart Brighton he attempts to assault her in order to shut her up. When she resists he pushes her out of the carriage and dumps all her possessions minus her money out, also. At first Lydia expects him to return for her but when that doesn't happen we have a long part of this story detailing misfortune, neglect, hunger, thirst, etc. besetting Lydia without letup. Most people she appeals to turn their back on her as her appearance has deteriorated greatly being out in the weather and sleeping in rain, etc.
It was difficult to put this story down as Lydia's quick transformation at the hands of fate gave her one after another rude slaps as to how low life can bring one. Mr. Patch, a potato seller, gives her some little help, mostly due to her refusing to get off his cart, before he takes her to a workhouse. There the rules are strict and no one is above anyone else. In fact, claims to be still "innocent" or to be a gentlewoman are laughed at and Lydia soon learns to adjust in order to survive. Breaking rules and/or whining will mean she loses a place to sleep and food to eat...again.
Yes, Elizabeth has had time to again meet Darcy at Pemberley when she and the Gardiners are touring. However, Jane's letter to her about Lydia's eloping is delayed and misaddressed so Elizabeth has more time to interact with Mr. Darcy. Thus their relationship has a much firmer base when he goes off to search for Lydia. This story details the many pains Darcy has to go to in order to locate Lydia.
I enjoyed this story and recommend it to other JAFF readers.
In this variation Lydia does elope with Wickham and shortly after they depart Brighton he attempts to assault her in order to shut her up. When she resists he pushes her out of the carriage and dumps all her possessions minus her money out, also. At first Lydia expects him to return for her but when that doesn't happen we have a long part of this story detailing misfortune, neglect, hunger, thirst, etc. besetting Lydia without letup. Most people she appeals to turn their back on her as her appearance has deteriorated greatly being out in the weather and sleeping in rain, etc.
It was difficult to put this story down as Lydia's quick transformation at the hands of fate gave her one after another rude slaps as to how low life can bring one. Mr. Patch, a potato seller, gives her some little help, mostly due to her refusing to get off his cart, before he takes her to a workhouse. There the rules are strict and no one is above anyone else. In fact, claims to be still "innocent" or to be a gentlewoman are laughed at and Lydia soon learns to adjust in order to survive. Breaking rules and/or whining will mean she loses a place to sleep and food to eat...again.
Yes, Elizabeth has had time to again meet Darcy at Pemberley when she and the Gardiners are touring. However, Jane's letter to her about Lydia's eloping is delayed and misaddressed so Elizabeth has more time to interact with Mr. Darcy. Thus their relationship has a much firmer base when he goes off to search for Lydia. This story details the many pains Darcy has to go to in order to locate Lydia.
I enjoyed this story and recommend it to other JAFF readers.
March 8, 2021
Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Reckless, Headstrong Girl is a very creative novella where Lydia’s fate after running away from Brighton with Wickham is very different from what we are used to. What if Wickham grew tired of Lydia even before they reached London? And what would happen if he threw her of the carriage in the middle of the country? What would petulant Lydia do?
The book opens up with Lydia and Wickham’s storyline, and alternates between Lydia’s adventures and Elizabeth and Darcy’s romance. I never expected I would say this, but when I started reading this book, I was so entranced with Lydia’s story that I didn’t want to read the chapters which were not focused on her. Elizabeth and Darcy’s love story is beautiful, and because of a slight difference in the story, Jane doesn’t send the letter to Elizabeth straight away, so Elizabeth and Mr Darcy have more time to be together at Pemberley, which was enough to develop a sweet romance, but still, I couldn’t take my mind away from Lydia!
Lydia’s story was very funny at first, and I loved to see her petulance be repeatedly tamed by her new circumstances, but as the story progressed, I started caring very much not only for Lydia, but also for the characters that were interacting with her. Mr. Parch in particular was a favourite, and my only quibble with this story was not seeing Lydia herself rewarding him for all he did for her. He was such an interesting character that I wanted to know more about him and his life.
The situation Lydia finds herself in is so different that she goes through material changes, and I loved to see her character development. The changes we see in her attitude and her growth from a childish lady into a pondered young woman were probably one of the aspects I enjoyed the most in this novella, but particularly because they were written in a light and funny fashion that made the book unputdownable. I usually dislike too much Lydia time, and confess to skip some parts of books that are exclusively about Lydia, but Grace Gibson did such a wonderful job with this story that I absolutely loved Lydia and wanted more time in her company.
Summing up, Reckless, Headstrong Girl is an extraordinary novella that readers will not be able to put down. It is well written and captivating, with the best Lydia rendition I’ve ever read. I highly recommend getting a copy and spend one afternoon in the company of this book.
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Reckless, Headstrong Girl is a very creative novella where Lydia’s fate after running away from Brighton with Wickham is very different from what we are used to. What if Wickham grew tired of Lydia even before they reached London? And what would happen if he threw her of the carriage in the middle of the country? What would petulant Lydia do?
The book opens up with Lydia and Wickham’s storyline, and alternates between Lydia’s adventures and Elizabeth and Darcy’s romance. I never expected I would say this, but when I started reading this book, I was so entranced with Lydia’s story that I didn’t want to read the chapters which were not focused on her. Elizabeth and Darcy’s love story is beautiful, and because of a slight difference in the story, Jane doesn’t send the letter to Elizabeth straight away, so Elizabeth and Mr Darcy have more time to be together at Pemberley, which was enough to develop a sweet romance, but still, I couldn’t take my mind away from Lydia!
Lydia’s story was very funny at first, and I loved to see her petulance be repeatedly tamed by her new circumstances, but as the story progressed, I started caring very much not only for Lydia, but also for the characters that were interacting with her. Mr. Parch in particular was a favourite, and my only quibble with this story was not seeing Lydia herself rewarding him for all he did for her. He was such an interesting character that I wanted to know more about him and his life.
The situation Lydia finds herself in is so different that she goes through material changes, and I loved to see her character development. The changes we see in her attitude and her growth from a childish lady into a pondered young woman were probably one of the aspects I enjoyed the most in this novella, but particularly because they were written in a light and funny fashion that made the book unputdownable. I usually dislike too much Lydia time, and confess to skip some parts of books that are exclusively about Lydia, but Grace Gibson did such a wonderful job with this story that I absolutely loved Lydia and wanted more time in her company.
Summing up, Reckless, Headstrong Girl is an extraordinary novella that readers will not be able to put down. It is well written and captivating, with the best Lydia rendition I’ve ever read. I highly recommend getting a copy and spend one afternoon in the company of this book.
February 28, 2021
A Truly surprising story
I wasn't intending to read this. I'm not particularly drawn to stories about the secondary characters. In this case, that would have been a huge mistake. I loved this book, the excellent early depiction of Lydia was dead on and though the transformation seemed unlikely, this fine author looked deeply into the character Jane Austen created and found the attributes to build a heroine of circumstance. This is a fine, fine effort on many levels and I thank this author for her originality and imagination.
I wasn't intending to read this. I'm not particularly drawn to stories about the secondary characters. In this case, that would have been a huge mistake. I loved this book, the excellent early depiction of Lydia was dead on and though the transformation seemed unlikely, this fine author looked deeply into the character Jane Austen created and found the attributes to build a heroine of circumstance. This is a fine, fine effort on many levels and I thank this author for her originality and imagination.
June 27, 2021
Wonderful, resilient Lydia!
I liked this story of Lydia’s great adventure and Lizzy and Darcy’s HEA. Of note here - no epilogue! I’m grateful to the author for leaving things off at a logical point and leaving the epilogue to our imagination.
I liked this story of Lydia’s great adventure and Lizzy and Darcy’s HEA. Of note here - no epilogue! I’m grateful to the author for leaving things off at a logical point and leaving the epilogue to our imagination.
April 13, 2021
Fresh perspective
What a delight, a brisk re-telling of Lydia's part in otherwise canon P&P, with an admirable lightness of touch and yet gritty essence. My favourite combination of style. To be technical, Ms Gibson also captures Jane Austen's free indirect style, the narrative entering the perspective of the characters' own voices, especially, here, Lydia. And , very slight spoiler, Lydia grows up! Highly recommended.
What a delight, a brisk re-telling of Lydia's part in otherwise canon P&P, with an admirable lightness of touch and yet gritty essence. My favourite combination of style. To be technical, Ms Gibson also captures Jane Austen's free indirect style, the narrative entering the perspective of the characters' own voices, especially, here, Lydia. And , very slight spoiler, Lydia grows up! Highly recommended.
March 9, 2021
Great Story
Normally, I stay far away from anything that says Lydia Bennet. But maybe I'm wrong. I often condemn her for her actions, but she was 15. 15!
I love this book because it has many of the things I like about P&P books, but also makes me think.
Also- great title.
Normally, I stay far away from anything that says Lydia Bennet. But maybe I'm wrong. I often condemn her for her actions, but she was 15. 15!
I love this book because it has many of the things I like about P&P books, but also makes me think.
Also- great title.
December 25, 2022
What an interesting story!
Completely out of canon but engaging tale that deviates from the original in what happens with Lydia and Wickham when they elope from Brighton. A most worthy book!
Completely out of canon but engaging tale that deviates from the original in what happens with Lydia and Wickham when they elope from Brighton. A most worthy book!
April 25, 2024
Status: Read April 18-20, 2024 via audible edition
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Library Notes:
Reckless, Headstrong Girl (Skirmish & Scandal)
by Grace Gibson, Stevie Zimmerman (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 4 pages
Published February 27, 2021 by Meryton Press (first published January 27, 2021)
ASIN: B08XMM852B
A scandalous flight, an inconsiderate couple - how can things have gone so terribly wrong for Lydia Bennet?
In Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Lydia Bennet runs away from Brighton with George Wickham, but this adaptation of Lydia’s adventures is not your typical story about this brash couple.
Mr. Wickham, proving he is no gentleman, does the unthinkable and casts Lydia out of a second-rate coach. Filthy, exhausted, and penniless, Lydia is just facing the beginning of her ordeal! How can a spoiled, uneducated girl of 15 - used to having her way - survive a night in the wilds of Sussex?
As Mr. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner vainly search for her in London, Lydia’s sisters struggle to keep her secret from their Meryton neighbors. Though they fear the worst - that Lydia’s wild life has ended in tragedy - all hope is not lost. Mr. Darcy, in the midst of reigniting his courtship with Elizabeth Bennet, is determined to recover his love’s unfortunate sibling.
Will Mr. Darcy succeed in finding Lydia and restoring her to respectability? In what shocking condition will this catastrophe render such a reckless, headstrong girl?
Listening Length: 3 hours and 27 minutes
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Library Notes:
Reckless, Headstrong Girl (Skirmish & Scandal)
by Grace Gibson, Stevie Zimmerman (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 4 pages
Published February 27, 2021 by Meryton Press (first published January 27, 2021)
ASIN: B08XMM852B
A scandalous flight, an inconsiderate couple - how can things have gone so terribly wrong for Lydia Bennet?
In Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Lydia Bennet runs away from Brighton with George Wickham, but this adaptation of Lydia’s adventures is not your typical story about this brash couple.
Mr. Wickham, proving he is no gentleman, does the unthinkable and casts Lydia out of a second-rate coach. Filthy, exhausted, and penniless, Lydia is just facing the beginning of her ordeal! How can a spoiled, uneducated girl of 15 - used to having her way - survive a night in the wilds of Sussex?
As Mr. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner vainly search for her in London, Lydia’s sisters struggle to keep her secret from their Meryton neighbors. Though they fear the worst - that Lydia’s wild life has ended in tragedy - all hope is not lost. Mr. Darcy, in the midst of reigniting his courtship with Elizabeth Bennet, is determined to recover his love’s unfortunate sibling.
Will Mr. Darcy succeed in finding Lydia and restoring her to respectability? In what shocking condition will this catastrophe render such a reckless, headstrong girl?
Listening Length: 3 hours and 27 minutes
December 17, 2022
In this Pride and Prejudice variation during their flight/elopement from Brighton Lydia is flung out of the carriage by Wickham. With no money or luggage how will she survive. Will it change her at all.
An entertaining story, surprisingly as it is about Lydia.
An entertaining story, surprisingly as it is about Lydia.
December 26, 2022
Yikes, I had reviewed the wring book! Apologies if anyone wondered what I was talking about.
This is a novel with a lot of Lydia but a very different Lydia. I loved the scene when she poses herself beautifully because she’s sure she’s going to die, then she can’t stay in the position because of her bonnet.
There’s some angst but overall another very enjoyable book by this author who is rapidly becoming one of my favorites.
This is a novel with a lot of Lydia but a very different Lydia. I loved the scene when she poses herself beautifully because she’s sure she’s going to die, then she can’t stay in the position because of her bonnet.
There’s some angst but overall another very enjoyable book by this author who is rapidly becoming one of my favorites.
February 10, 2021
Avid Reader
This was a delightful story about Lydia 's journey to the realization that the world didn't revolve around her after Wickham tossed her out of a hired coach. If course Wickham allowed Lydia to think they were eloping because she had five pounds that he needed to get away from his gambling debts in Brighton. Lydia is truly changed after her experiences.
This was a delightful story about Lydia 's journey to the realization that the world didn't revolve around her after Wickham tossed her out of a hired coach. If course Wickham allowed Lydia to think they were eloping because she had five pounds that he needed to get away from his gambling debts in Brighton. Lydia is truly changed after her experiences.
November 26, 2025
Grace Gibson can be relied upon for 5 star+ variations, and this one doesn't disappoint. The focus is on Lydia, her inherent character and her development into a compassionate and truly admirable woman. I would be thrilled if the book were twice as long and followed her later experiences. Just a wonderful variation.
November 27, 2025
Redemption of Lydia
In the past, I have found the portrayal of Lydia to be particularly irritating. Reading this variation truly shed a new light on her journey to maturity and overall awakening. With many chapters told from Lydia’s point of view, it was nice to see the situation from her perspective. Overall it was satisfying to see someone learn from their mistakes.
In the past, I have found the portrayal of Lydia to be particularly irritating. Reading this variation truly shed a new light on her journey to maturity and overall awakening. With many chapters told from Lydia’s point of view, it was nice to see the situation from her perspective. Overall it was satisfying to see someone learn from their mistakes.
August 12, 2024
I always enjoy variations where Lydia gets some much needed character development and doesn’t end up with a wicked Wickham.
August 20, 2023
What If Wickham Left Lydia Stranded Between Brighton and Gretna Green?
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Friend
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice novella about a secondary character
THE PREMISE: It turns out Wickham can only tolerate so much of Lydia’s chattering during their escape from Brighton, especially when she is not of mind to permit any liberties… After Wickham unceremoniously kicks Lydia out of the coach, she must fend for herself and find her way home – all without any funds or connections. Lydia’s adventures away from home are nothing like the laughingly “good joke she thought they’d be…
MY THOUGHTS: La! The party don’t start ’til Lydia walks in… Even though she can be exasperating, whiny, self-centered, and shallow I love reading stories about Lydia Bennet. Especially when they are like this one, and readers see Lydia face new situations and challenges.
Lydia forced to face her own insignificance and realize how privileged and spoiled she is? Love that journey for her! What a satisfying tale! Lydia is left friendless, penniless, and resourceless. She is forced to face rough living conditions, deprivations, and unyielding authority figures. And all these conditions force Lydia to open her eyes and transform. She learns so much about the world, about men, and about how selfish and spoiled she has been. But like her sister, Elizabeth, Lydia can be headstrong and determined, and she decides to make the best of her situation. That is until an unexpected and dreamy rescue arrives…(Side Note: Lydia’s experience for me felt a little reminiscent of Bridget Jones’s in Bridget Jones: Edge of Reason. I really loved seeing the friends she made and her consideration for them later.)
This novella delivered on all accounts. There was adventure, tension, reflection, character growth, a determined hero, and some romance. I love how the focus was divided between Lydia and Darcy/Elizabeth. For those who might miss getting their Darcy and Elizabeth fix, there are plenty of scenes with these two while Elizabeth visits Lambton with the Gardiners. Annother aspect of this story I greatly appreciated was the realism imbued with Lydia’s circumstances. Grace Gibson subtlety reminds readers of the dangers and disadvantages for unprotected and uneducated women living during this time period.
I was so delighted to see dear Lydia’s recklessness lead to a rewarding tale of redemption in this riveting saga! Reckless, Headstrong Girl is a marvelous and uplifting tale about facing your faults and becoming better! I highly recommend for readers who want to see Lydia Bennet improve!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Friend
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice novella about a secondary character
THE PREMISE: It turns out Wickham can only tolerate so much of Lydia’s chattering during their escape from Brighton, especially when she is not of mind to permit any liberties… After Wickham unceremoniously kicks Lydia out of the coach, she must fend for herself and find her way home – all without any funds or connections. Lydia’s adventures away from home are nothing like the laughingly “good joke she thought they’d be…
MY THOUGHTS: La! The party don’t start ’til Lydia walks in… Even though she can be exasperating, whiny, self-centered, and shallow I love reading stories about Lydia Bennet. Especially when they are like this one, and readers see Lydia face new situations and challenges.
Lydia forced to face her own insignificance and realize how privileged and spoiled she is? Love that journey for her! What a satisfying tale! Lydia is left friendless, penniless, and resourceless. She is forced to face rough living conditions, deprivations, and unyielding authority figures. And all these conditions force Lydia to open her eyes and transform. She learns so much about the world, about men, and about how selfish and spoiled she has been. But like her sister, Elizabeth, Lydia can be headstrong and determined, and she decides to make the best of her situation. That is until an unexpected and dreamy rescue arrives…(Side Note: Lydia’s experience for me felt a little reminiscent of Bridget Jones’s in Bridget Jones: Edge of Reason. I really loved seeing the friends she made and her consideration for them later.)
This novella delivered on all accounts. There was adventure, tension, reflection, character growth, a determined hero, and some romance. I love how the focus was divided between Lydia and Darcy/Elizabeth. For those who might miss getting their Darcy and Elizabeth fix, there are plenty of scenes with these two while Elizabeth visits Lambton with the Gardiners. Annother aspect of this story I greatly appreciated was the realism imbued with Lydia’s circumstances. Grace Gibson subtlety reminds readers of the dangers and disadvantages for unprotected and uneducated women living during this time period.
I was so delighted to see dear Lydia’s recklessness lead to a rewarding tale of redemption in this riveting saga! Reckless, Headstrong Girl is a marvelous and uplifting tale about facing your faults and becoming better! I highly recommend for readers who want to see Lydia Bennet improve!
Austenesque Reviews
June 7, 2021
Lovely story.
I adored Lidia's plot and LOVED the proposal scene. This Darcy is amazing, I needed moreeee.
I could have done without the long P&P summary, I think this books audience remembers the OG plot quite well.
I adored Lidia's plot and LOVED the proposal scene. This Darcy is amazing, I needed moreeee.
I could have done without the long P&P summary, I think this books audience remembers the OG plot quite well.
February 20, 2021
Another wonderful creation from Grace Gibson
Kudos to this author, and please keep the JAFF coming! Like some other reviewers I read before purchasing this book, I wasn't so sure about a story focused on Lydia Bennett, one of P&P's most annoying characters. I'm glad that I took a chance, because this story is fabulous. It begins with Lydia's elopement from Brighton with Mr Wickham, but instead of accompanying him to London, she is literally tossed out of the coach onto the road as soon as Wickham gets tired of her chatter, and after he discovers she won't give up her virtue to him without a fight. She's abandoned in the middle of nowhere, with no money, and hardly any clothing.
The chapters alternate Lydia's struggles, Elizabeth's reignited love affair with Darcy, and the extreme distress of everyone back at Longbourn while they don't know what's become of Lydia. Lydia's struggles are truly epic, and are so heartbreaking, yet so compelling. The author does a wonderful job of describing the difficulties faced by a young girl who never had a serious thought before, who was pampered and spoiled, and who was utterly unprepared to take care of herself. It's both excruciating and uplifting.
The romance is superb, and the scene at the Lambton Inn where Darcy comes upon Elizabeth reading Jane's letter and crying, is swoon worthy. However, Bingley also steps up in this version, and proves himself to be a man worthy of our sweet Jane.
There's so much to like in this story, and I only wished the book was longer, and that's always a good sign. It's heartbreaking and heartwarming, suspenseful, surprising and uplifting. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
Kudos to this author, and please keep the JAFF coming! Like some other reviewers I read before purchasing this book, I wasn't so sure about a story focused on Lydia Bennett, one of P&P's most annoying characters. I'm glad that I took a chance, because this story is fabulous. It begins with Lydia's elopement from Brighton with Mr Wickham, but instead of accompanying him to London, she is literally tossed out of the coach onto the road as soon as Wickham gets tired of her chatter, and after he discovers she won't give up her virtue to him without a fight. She's abandoned in the middle of nowhere, with no money, and hardly any clothing.
The chapters alternate Lydia's struggles, Elizabeth's reignited love affair with Darcy, and the extreme distress of everyone back at Longbourn while they don't know what's become of Lydia. Lydia's struggles are truly epic, and are so heartbreaking, yet so compelling. The author does a wonderful job of describing the difficulties faced by a young girl who never had a serious thought before, who was pampered and spoiled, and who was utterly unprepared to take care of herself. It's both excruciating and uplifting.
The romance is superb, and the scene at the Lambton Inn where Darcy comes upon Elizabeth reading Jane's letter and crying, is swoon worthy. However, Bingley also steps up in this version, and proves himself to be a man worthy of our sweet Jane.
There's so much to like in this story, and I only wished the book was longer, and that's always a good sign. It's heartbreaking and heartwarming, suspenseful, surprising and uplifting. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
April 19, 2021
A Refreshing and Heartwarming Version of Lydia’s Adventure
I thoroughly enjoyed this detailed look at what could have happened to Lydia Bennett when she left Brighton with George Wickham. Most of Austen’s story is left intact, but this version of the elopement is fraught with travails and adventures that thoroughly convert the brash teenager. You will enjoy following her re-education.
I thoroughly enjoyed this detailed look at what could have happened to Lydia Bennett when she left Brighton with George Wickham. Most of Austen’s story is left intact, but this version of the elopement is fraught with travails and adventures that thoroughly convert the brash teenager. You will enjoy following her re-education.
February 12, 2021
A completely unique take
Loved this concept that stays true to the original characters but with a new and interesting story. A peek into the rest of the world beyond Longborne, Pemberly, and wealthier London society of the time. Loved Lydia's story here!
Loved this concept that stays true to the original characters but with a new and interesting story. A peek into the rest of the world beyond Longborne, Pemberly, and wealthier London society of the time. Loved Lydia's story here!
February 23, 2021
Surprised
Reading the summary of the story and it being more about Lydia I was surprised that I truly enjoyed the story. It was a gentle rendering of one person’s external and internal struggle for survival and being grateful for the little things.
Reading the summary of the story and it being more about Lydia I was surprised that I truly enjoyed the story. It was a gentle rendering of one person’s external and internal struggle for survival and being grateful for the little things.
February 24, 2021
This was a short, enjoyable read with a twist on the Lydia/Wickham storyline. I appreciated Lydia’s journey and growth. Darcy made a great knight in shining armor and I enjoyed his scenes with Elizabeth. Even though they didn’t get a lot of page time, the time they had was so sweet.
February 27, 2021
What a beautiful and healthy beginning
I loved this version of Lydia's growth, the family's concerns, feelings, etc. The friendships that grew. For me, this was a much better version for what the future might hold than the original story of Lydia.
I loved this version of Lydia's growth, the family's concerns, feelings, etc. The friendships that grew. For me, this was a much better version for what the future might hold than the original story of Lydia.
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