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Frolic and Romance #1
Along for the Ride
In the game of love, who will have the last flirt?
Fitzwilliam Darcy has been successfully resisting the charms of Elizabeth Bennet. Mostly. But a plea from his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, has put Darcy in a precarious position. In order to help his cousins find happiness, he has to pretend a romantic diversion of his own, with the woman who is tearing down his last defenses.
Elizabeth Bennet is accustomed to the ridiculous. Whether it is an absurd relative or a nonsensical noble, she allows very few things to rattle her. But she is properly astonished when Mr. Darcy, the most disagreeable man in the world, shocks her with a most unconventional proposal.
She cannot pass up such a sublime opportunity, and immediately sets out to unnerve the proud man from Derbyshire. But Mr. Darcy has hidden talents of his own, and soon, Elizabeth finds herself almost outmatched in the art of teasing.
As they each vie for the upper hand in this romantic contest, will they conquer each other at last? Or will their victory be sabotaged by their hearts?
Along for the Ride is a sweet Regency variation of approximately 20,000 words.
100 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 26, 2021
118 people are currently reading
107 people want to read
About the author
Alix James
60 books129 followersSatisfying romance with a happy ending
Alix James is a best-selling Jane Austen romance author. #janeaustenfan #janeaustenfans #janeaustenfanfiction #mrdarcy #austenadapations #austenvariations
Alix James is a best-selling Jane Austen romance author. #janeaustenfan #janeaustenfans #janeaustenfanfiction #mrdarcy #austenadapations #austenvariations
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
February 28, 2021
“I may be going nowhere, but what a ride.” –Shaun Hick
Rating: clean, quick read at 16-chapters. Angst level: low: The cover was so appropriate, I loved it. Well done. Hopefully, this review doesn’t contain spoilers.
It took me a few chapters to get into the story. Our Colonel had a plan up his sleeve and he asked his cousin Darcy to help him. Oh… that was our first clue that something was up. I loved how the story progressed from that point. Alix James was able to bring out information without doing a copy and paste over reams of Austen’s words. It was well done and I was impressed at every turn.
When you reach the final few chapters, stop eating or drinking as this may be a choking hazard. I couldn’t help but laugh out loud as the story reached the final climax. I was open-mouthed and slack-jawed as things began to play out. OMG! I did not see that coming. I bet Lady Catherine will NEVER forget this dinner. I can’t say. Read it and enjoy. How cute.
“We’ve been focusing so much on getting there that we haven’t been enjoying the ride.” –Elizabeth Eulberg, Take a Bow:
Fitzwilliam Darcy: the above quote fit him perfectly. However, his life was about to change and forever. Oh, colonel, what have you done?
I received an ARC [2-22-21] with no expectations of a review. I eagerly volunteered my views and opinions as I now follow this author. I also grabbed the preorder and look forward to the download. This is one to read again. I found it adorable and I highly recommend this for a good laugh. What fun.
1st read 2-22-21 hilarious
2nd read 2-27-21 had to read my favorite parts, the courtship and where Lady Catherine fainted.
Rating: clean, quick read at 16-chapters. Angst level: low: The cover was so appropriate, I loved it. Well done. Hopefully, this review doesn’t contain spoilers.
It took me a few chapters to get into the story. Our Colonel had a plan up his sleeve and he asked his cousin Darcy to help him. Oh… that was our first clue that something was up. I loved how the story progressed from that point. Alix James was able to bring out information without doing a copy and paste over reams of Austen’s words. It was well done and I was impressed at every turn.
When you reach the final few chapters, stop eating or drinking as this may be a choking hazard. I couldn’t help but laugh out loud as the story reached the final climax. I was open-mouthed and slack-jawed as things began to play out. OMG! I did not see that coming. I bet Lady Catherine will NEVER forget this dinner. I can’t say. Read it and enjoy. How cute.
“We’ve been focusing so much on getting there that we haven’t been enjoying the ride.” –Elizabeth Eulberg, Take a Bow:
Fitzwilliam Darcy: the above quote fit him perfectly. However, his life was about to change and forever. Oh, colonel, what have you done?
I received an ARC [2-22-21] with no expectations of a review. I eagerly volunteered my views and opinions as I now follow this author. I also grabbed the preorder and look forward to the download. This is one to read again. I found it adorable and I highly recommend this for a good laugh. What fun.
1st read 2-22-21 hilarious
2nd read 2-27-21 had to read my favorite parts, the courtship and where Lady Catherine fainted.
March 16, 2025
In the spring a young man’s fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love. ~ Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Ah, Spring! The traditional visit to dear Aunt Catherine at Easter and a young man finds his fancy turned. The young man is not the usual Pride & Prejudice hero.
Colonel Fitzwilliam has always had a fondness for his cousin Anne de Bourgh. He would like to marry her. But how can he court her when it is so difficult to see her without his Aunt present? Especially since his Aunt insists Anne will marry her other cousin, Fitzwilliam Darcy.
The air was warm and balmy, carrying that subtle current which caused the mild madness of spring fever. ~ Zane Grey
Darcy and Fitzwilliam devise a plan to take Anne for drives across the Rosings parkland. Of course, following Regency propriety, it will be necessary to bring another female along for the ride.
This is a short, sweet, and funny look at Our Dear Couple’s courtship at Kent. Loved it!
...the world very much alive in the bright light and wind, exultant with the fever of spring, the delight of morning... ~ Edward Abbey
Ah, Spring! The traditional visit to dear Aunt Catherine at Easter and a young man finds his fancy turned. The young man is not the usual Pride & Prejudice hero.
Colonel Fitzwilliam has always had a fondness for his cousin Anne de Bourgh. He would like to marry her. But how can he court her when it is so difficult to see her without his Aunt present? Especially since his Aunt insists Anne will marry her other cousin, Fitzwilliam Darcy.
The air was warm and balmy, carrying that subtle current which caused the mild madness of spring fever. ~ Zane Grey
Darcy and Fitzwilliam devise a plan to take Anne for drives across the Rosings parkland. Of course, following Regency propriety, it will be necessary to bring another female along for the ride.
This is a short, sweet, and funny look at Our Dear Couple’s courtship at Kent. Loved it!
...the world very much alive in the bright light and wind, exultant with the fever of spring, the delight of morning... ~ Edward Abbey
February 28, 2021
This delightful, light-hearted novella all takes place in Kent.
Colonel Fitzwilliam wants to resign his commission before he's sent on another assignment to the Continent. Marrying his cousin Anne would allow him to do that. From the time they were children, he's admired her. Since Darcy isn't interested in acquiescing to his aunt's expectations, why not Fitzwilliam?
So he comes up with a plan. That's where Darcy and Elizabeth come in. (And the story is actually about them.)
To further Darcy's supposed courtship of Anne, Lady Catherine is manipulated into arranging for them to take the barouche out daily with Fitzwilliam as the driver. A chaperone is needed, but Mrs. Jenkinson and Mrs. Collins are both unavailable. That leaves Miss Bennet. At Lady C's insistence, Elizabeth reluctantly agrees. Once they're out of sight of Rosings, the men exchange seats - meaning Darcy and Elizabeth are seated together.
The manipulation doesn't end there. Things are too silent and tense for Fitzwilliam to get Anne to loosen up. Could Darcy please pretend to be courting Miss Bennet? Well, this won't work without Elizabeth also playing her role, so she's brought into the conspiracy. It doesn't take long before Darcy and Elizabeth are both wondering whether there's more than play-acting going on with their make-believe partner.
It's a simple plot where everything takes place over several days, perfect for a novella. The storyline really displays Ms. Clarkston's considerable talent at writing dialogue with quick-witted banter between our hero and heroine that's great fun to read. Their chemistry together is off the charts once they get "pretending." The two still misunderstand each other, as the author emphasizes by shifting the point of view back and forth between Darcy and Elizabeth.
Such a wonderful, short read! Content is clean.
I received an ARC with no promise of a review, favorable or otherwise.
Colonel Fitzwilliam wants to resign his commission before he's sent on another assignment to the Continent. Marrying his cousin Anne would allow him to do that. From the time they were children, he's admired her. Since Darcy isn't interested in acquiescing to his aunt's expectations, why not Fitzwilliam?
So he comes up with a plan. That's where Darcy and Elizabeth come in. (And the story is actually about them.)
To further Darcy's supposed courtship of Anne, Lady Catherine is manipulated into arranging for them to take the barouche out daily with Fitzwilliam as the driver. A chaperone is needed, but Mrs. Jenkinson and Mrs. Collins are both unavailable. That leaves Miss Bennet. At Lady C's insistence, Elizabeth reluctantly agrees. Once they're out of sight of Rosings, the men exchange seats - meaning Darcy and Elizabeth are seated together.
The manipulation doesn't end there. Things are too silent and tense for Fitzwilliam to get Anne to loosen up. Could Darcy please pretend to be courting Miss Bennet? Well, this won't work without Elizabeth also playing her role, so she's brought into the conspiracy. It doesn't take long before Darcy and Elizabeth are both wondering whether there's more than play-acting going on with their make-believe partner.
It's a simple plot where everything takes place over several days, perfect for a novella. The storyline really displays Ms. Clarkston's considerable talent at writing dialogue with quick-witted banter between our hero and heroine that's great fun to read. Their chemistry together is off the charts once they get "pretending." The two still misunderstand each other, as the author emphasizes by shifting the point of view back and forth between Darcy and Elizabeth.
Such a wonderful, short read! Content is clean.
I received an ARC with no promise of a review, favorable or otherwise.
February 23, 2021
I received an ARC of this story with no strings attached. I have read all this author's stories including the ones she writes as Nicole Clarkston. She is a favorite author for me.
The setting is Kent. A discussion about the benefits or dangers of walking or riding out have Darcy pointing out that if a sedate ride in the countryside is harmful to Anne then marriage is not for her. With that Lady Catherine "decides" that Darcy will accompany Anne on daily rides while the Colonel and Miss Elizabeth Bennet will chaperone...Mrs. Jenkinson being absent on a visit to her mother
It is then a puzzle to Elizabeth as to why the Colonel claims to not know directions and insists Darcy take over the reins of the phaeton as they arrive at the parsonage and pick her up. This switch occurs daily. At first there is little discussion between Darcy and Elizabeth and we read as the Colonel comes up with a plan to further his own courting of Anne...Darcy must pretend to court Elizabeth.
Soon Elizabeth is let in on the plan. The couples enjoy some picnics and some walks. Elizabeth's opinions about Darcy begins to change and he hints to her that her opinions about a certain man in Meryton are also very much mistaken.
You will have to smile as Lady Catherine comes to realize that Darcy has feelings for Elizabeth and vehemently confronts him! Loved that scene.
So most of the action and conversations surround these daily rides as the two couples are forced to be in intimate company. Short and very entertaining...well done.
The setting is Kent. A discussion about the benefits or dangers of walking or riding out have Darcy pointing out that if a sedate ride in the countryside is harmful to Anne then marriage is not for her. With that Lady Catherine "decides" that Darcy will accompany Anne on daily rides while the Colonel and Miss Elizabeth Bennet will chaperone...Mrs. Jenkinson being absent on a visit to her mother
It is then a puzzle to Elizabeth as to why the Colonel claims to not know directions and insists Darcy take over the reins of the phaeton as they arrive at the parsonage and pick her up. This switch occurs daily. At first there is little discussion between Darcy and Elizabeth and we read as the Colonel comes up with a plan to further his own courting of Anne...Darcy must pretend to court Elizabeth.
Soon Elizabeth is let in on the plan. The couples enjoy some picnics and some walks. Elizabeth's opinions about Darcy begins to change and he hints to her that her opinions about a certain man in Meryton are also very much mistaken.
You will have to smile as Lady Catherine comes to realize that Darcy has feelings for Elizabeth and vehemently confronts him! Loved that scene.
So most of the action and conversations surround these daily rides as the two couples are forced to be in intimate company. Short and very entertaining...well done.
February 25, 2021
"...I'll not be put to pasture or shackled to a desk" (quote from the book)
While visiting Lady Catherine at Rosings Park, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam asks his cousin Mr. Darcy for his help. Always willing to be of assistance to those he cares for, Mr. Darcy agrees not realizing his heart will be placed in a precarious position...sitting side-by-side with the impertinent Miss Elizabeth Bennet!
"I need not say anything for her to comprehend me utterly." (quote from the book)
What fun it was to be in the mind of both Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet as they traverse Rosings. Elizabeth still trying to sketch Mr. Darcy's character and Mr. Darcy is trying to withstand Miss Elizabeth's charms and wit.
"Saints have mercy, but the man could not have been more awkward if he had a third arm sprouting from his chest!" (quote from the book)
So come along for the ride as we 'listen in' on their outings and be ready for that final dinner at Rosings Park with Lady Catherine. It will be a one of those stories Darcy, Elizabeth will be telling their children for years to come!
This is another delightful confection from the pen of Ms. James that I can highly recommend!
I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this novella with no expectation for a review.
March 1, 2021
What a ride!
I NEEDED this story. I needed the humor. I needed the tenderness. I needed to have Darcy’s vulnerability exposed and Elizabeth’s ground shaken underneath her. This was the perfect read for me. Thanks, Alix!
I NEEDED this story. I needed the humor. I needed the tenderness. I needed to have Darcy’s vulnerability exposed and Elizabeth’s ground shaken underneath her. This was the perfect read for me. Thanks, Alix!
December 30, 2022
Another fun, quick novella. Darcy and Elizabeth strike up a deal and try to out-flirt each other. The only problem—they forget they’re supposed to be pretending.
March 8, 2021
Utterly delightful!
An engaging story, ladled with hilarious and cleverly witten banter.
We are at Rosings where Colonel Firzwilliam engage Darcy who engage Elizabeth in his quest for Anne de Bourgh's heart, resulting in enthusiastic flirting between our dear couple...
Heartily recommend!
Rated: Chaste
An engaging story, ladled with hilarious and cleverly witten banter.
We are at Rosings where Colonel Firzwilliam engage Darcy who engage Elizabeth in his quest for Anne de Bourgh's heart, resulting in enthusiastic flirting between our dear couple...
Heartily recommend!
Rated: Chaste
February 26, 2021
Fun Quick Read
This is another delightful read from Alix James/Nicole Clarkston. A little plot on the part of Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy to encourage Anne’s attentions towards the Colonel has delightful and amusing results. The teasing banter between Darcy and Elizabeth is entertaining as always. I am loving these fun and engaging novellas. Highly recommend.
This is another delightful read from Alix James/Nicole Clarkston. A little plot on the part of Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy to encourage Anne’s attentions towards the Colonel has delightful and amusing results. The teasing banter between Darcy and Elizabeth is entertaining as always. I am loving these fun and engaging novellas. Highly recommend.
March 17, 2021
4.5 stars. This was a delightfully fun little story. It’s a quick and easy read that made me smile and chuckle more than once. You have to be prepared to discard the rules of propriety for the period, but it is easy to do and well worth it because it is such an enjoyable little morsel.
April 26, 2021
Fun & Fast.
Synopsis:
Col Fitzwilliam has set his cap on Anne, but Lady Catherine has set hers on Darcy. Thus the Colonel recruits Darcy to act as his wingman and be more convivial & less taciturn with Lizzy during their daily carriage/ picnic outings to give Richard the chance to woo Anne .
Darcy:
Darcy, fighting feelings for Lizzy & still adamant he will not offer for her, agrees to Richard's dogged insistence. Darcy recruits Lizzy's accordance to the scheme of them ‘courting/ flirting’; if love is in the air, it will be contagious and render Anne in the right disposition to accept Col. Fitz- that is the hypothesis at least.
Darcy and Lizzy soon take flirting to competitive, one-upmanship heights, how long will it take to realize they have met their match?
That Which Sparked Joy:
♡Voices/ dialogue gloriously on character- very witty repartee.
♡I am a fan of the rare in JAFF 1st person POV.
That Which Courted Disdain:
✗ The story resolved in a blink of an eye that I wondered if I was missing pages for one second, That is the way of a novelette, so I am not overly put out.
The Brass Tacks:
➭ I am not one for novelettes, I try to avoid them, though I can appreciate the appeal.
I am happy to invest more time in a story that will prove to have more depth & intricate plot, and thus greater emotional payoff. This is very solid for what it is- charming to be sure- but not one I would revisit.
This is my first tryst with this author and I look forward to exploring her longer works now that I’ve dipped my toe and find her style most becoming.
Synopsis:
Col Fitzwilliam has set his cap on Anne, but Lady Catherine has set hers on Darcy. Thus the Colonel recruits Darcy to act as his wingman and be more convivial & less taciturn with Lizzy during their daily carriage/ picnic outings to give Richard the chance to woo Anne .
Darcy:
Darcy, fighting feelings for Lizzy & still adamant he will not offer for her, agrees to Richard's dogged insistence. Darcy recruits Lizzy's accordance to the scheme of them ‘courting/ flirting’; if love is in the air, it will be contagious and render Anne in the right disposition to accept Col. Fitz- that is the hypothesis at least.
Darcy and Lizzy soon take flirting to competitive, one-upmanship heights, how long will it take to realize they have met their match?
That Which Sparked Joy:
♡Voices/ dialogue gloriously on character- very witty repartee.
♡I am a fan of the rare in JAFF 1st person POV.
That Which Courted Disdain:
✗ The story resolved in a blink of an eye that I wondered if I was missing pages for one second, That is the way of a novelette, so I am not overly put out.
The Brass Tacks:
➭ I am not one for novelettes, I try to avoid them, though I can appreciate the appeal.
I am happy to invest more time in a story that will prove to have more depth & intricate plot, and thus greater emotional payoff. This is very solid for what it is- charming to be sure- but not one I would revisit.
This is my first tryst with this author and I look forward to exploring her longer works now that I’ve dipped my toe and find her style most becoming.
May 27, 2023
May 25, 2023
Second reading of this one. My prior rating and review stand. It's a good one for a short, lightweight read, sometimes humorous, but has a rather abrupt ending.
*
March 8, 2021
This is another fine novella-length Pride and Prejudice variation from Alix James. It involves Colonel Fitzwilliam, who has determined that the best way for him to avoid needing to return to war, when his physician has advised him against it, is to resign his commission and marry his cousin, Anne de Bourgh. In order to be able to court her without her interfering mother being aware of his plan, he recruits his cousin, Mr. Darcy, to accompany him and Anne, along with Miss Elizabeth Bennet, on daily drives and picnics. Lady Catherine is to believe that it is Darcy who is wooing Anne, and the colonel and Miss Bennet only along for the drive as chaperones.
This is a quick read, perfect for a quiet evening, and lots of fun. Highly recommended.
Second reading of this one. My prior rating and review stand. It's a good one for a short, lightweight read, sometimes humorous, but has a rather abrupt ending.
*
March 8, 2021
This is another fine novella-length Pride and Prejudice variation from Alix James. It involves Colonel Fitzwilliam, who has determined that the best way for him to avoid needing to return to war, when his physician has advised him against it, is to resign his commission and marry his cousin, Anne de Bourgh. In order to be able to court her without her interfering mother being aware of his plan, he recruits his cousin, Mr. Darcy, to accompany him and Anne, along with Miss Elizabeth Bennet, on daily drives and picnics. Lady Catherine is to believe that it is Darcy who is wooing Anne, and the colonel and Miss Bennet only along for the drive as chaperones.
This is a quick read, perfect for a quiet evening, and lots of fun. Highly recommended.
May 8, 2021
I loved this novella so much - I didn't want it to end! The entire story is set in Kent with the Colonel wanting to woo Anne de Bourgh. He enlists Darcy to help him by asking him to flirt with Elizabeth in the hope this will influence Anne. I just loved all the flirtation between Darcy and Elizabeth and how she uses this opportunity to raise all her grievances with him. Of course, flirting with Elizabeth was always going to be risky for Darcy but could he actually be so good at it the it changes Elizabeth's view of him? The way things come to a head is just brilliant!!
This is a brilliant book. Its funny - truly hilarious in places! It is absolutely everything improper but done in a way that it still feels absolutely authentic. A short feel good story!
This is a brilliant book. Its funny - truly hilarious in places! It is absolutely everything improper but done in a way that it still feels absolutely authentic. A short feel good story!
March 5, 2021
This wonderful story is further proof of what can happen when you communicate!!! Fitzwilliam Darcy is asked to keep Elizabeth Bennet occupied so that the Colonel can flirt with Anne. The conversations and "help" that is offered kept me smiling. I love witty banter between characters. I highly recommend this story!
March 3, 2021
I seriously want to be this author's best friend. Such a gift she has, that I would hope being around her some of it would rub off. Just sayin...
On to the story. Clever, teasing, giggling, wonderful escapism. But not simple, no, the banter is so well woven, you get swept up in it not realizing time is flying by. *Sigh* simply adorbs!!!
On to the story. Clever, teasing, giggling, wonderful escapism. But not simple, no, the banter is so well woven, you get swept up in it not realizing time is flying by. *Sigh* simply adorbs!!!
January 15, 2026
this book is cute and sweet a fun little retelling. it starts when they're at rosings Park and is fairly short. The Kindle edition repeats chapters over and over so it was a bit of a trial to read. this is a proper romance sweet and clean.
July 24, 2023
I’ve definitely read this recently - not sure why I didn’t log it on here before - I thought it was a sweet story.
November 10, 2022
A great comedy when Darcy decides to help his cousin Fitzwilliam and Anne de Bourgh by pretending to court Elizabeth.
Another great short one by Alix James, alias Nicole Clarkston.
Another great short one by Alix James, alias Nicole Clarkston.
October 6, 2024
Corto pero bonito .
Me ha gustado mucho
Me ha gustado mucho
July 17, 2021
I love this author's short stories, they are just wonderful! I believe my favorite is still When the Sun Sleeps, but this is a close second!
This tale takes place at Rosings, where Colonel Fitzwilliam is trying to woo Anne in spite of Lady Catherine's insistence that she will marry Darcy. Lady Catherine decides that Darcy & Anne should ride out every afternoon with the Colonel and Elizabeth as chaperones. At first Elizabeth is peeved at being roped into this, especially when she realizes that the object is to get away from Rosings so that the Colonel can spend time with Anne, which leaves her with the confusing Mr. Darcy.
The Colonel entreats Darcy to pretend to woo Elizabeth, so that Anne will see that he is not interested in fulfilling her mother's dream. Darcy enlists Elizabeth in the deception and they flirt shamelessly with each other; they both put themselves fully into their roles. Due to her teasing, Darcy realizes what a complete ass he was in Hertfordshire, especially when Elizabeth compares his behavior with Wickham's amiability. He realizes he gave her no reason to like him or to think that he might like her. He finally understands that he has lost his heart to her, almost to the point of despair when he realizes she does not return the sentiment. Everyone is at dinner at Rosings and he forgets himself and essentially declares himself to Elizabeth, which angers Lady Catherine and pleases the Colonel and Anne. The four of them decamp to London.
My only complaint is that I would have liked to see the growth of the fondness between Darcy and Elizabeth, from after he declares himself and when they are leaving Hunsford. One more chapter and an epilogue would have been nice, too. But the story was delightful in any case. Very low angst or sadness, just lots of fun!
I am looking forward to the next story!
This tale takes place at Rosings, where Colonel Fitzwilliam is trying to woo Anne in spite of Lady Catherine's insistence that she will marry Darcy. Lady Catherine decides that Darcy & Anne should ride out every afternoon with the Colonel and Elizabeth as chaperones. At first Elizabeth is peeved at being roped into this, especially when she realizes that the object is to get away from Rosings so that the Colonel can spend time with Anne, which leaves her with the confusing Mr. Darcy.
The Colonel entreats Darcy to pretend to woo Elizabeth, so that Anne will see that he is not interested in fulfilling her mother's dream. Darcy enlists Elizabeth in the deception and they flirt shamelessly with each other; they both put themselves fully into their roles. Due to her teasing, Darcy realizes what a complete ass he was in Hertfordshire, especially when Elizabeth compares his behavior with Wickham's amiability. He realizes he gave her no reason to like him or to think that he might like her. He finally understands that he has lost his heart to her, almost to the point of despair when he realizes she does not return the sentiment. Everyone is at dinner at Rosings and he forgets himself and essentially declares himself to Elizabeth, which angers Lady Catherine and pleases the Colonel and Anne. The four of them decamp to London.
My only complaint is that I would have liked to see the growth of the fondness between Darcy and Elizabeth, from after he declares himself and when they are leaving Hunsford. One more chapter and an epilogue would have been nice, too. But the story was delightful in any case. Very low angst or sadness, just lots of fun!
I am looking forward to the next story!
April 13, 2021
This short novella was just what I needed after reading something with lots of angst. Along for the Ride is only angsty for ODC as we watch them 'suffer' through each other's company while escorting Col. Fitzwilliam and Anne de Bourgh on daily carriage rides. The idea originally Lady Catherine's, was supposed to be an opportunity for Darcy to get to proposing to Anne. Darcy knows Col. F wants Anne for himself and Darcy is all for this. But Darcy can't take Anne out on her own and needs a chaperone so Lady C. enlists Elizabeth Bennet. Elizabeth's only consolation is that this is temporary and she can get on with the serious business of walking the beautiful Rosings estate grounds. Best laid plans. One trip becomes two, five, how many??? I lost count. With each outing of finding the perfect place to stop and have a picnic Col. F. urges Darcy more and more to engage Miss Bennet for longer amounts of time so he and Anne can converse and get closer. Eventually the good colonel suggests Darcy and Elizabeth are seen flirting and acting all lovey toward each other, all for Anne's benefit. Up until now Elizabeth is frustration personified. She's been stuck with the stuck-up Mr. Darcy and missing her walks. But now she can get some of hers back by teasing him with her own flirtation.
The ending is so cute I can't touch it with a ten foot pole or I'd spoil a very lovely thing, but I will say it put a big smile on my face. The only problem I had with the story is that I lost track of each outing's arguments and how or if they were resolved by the next day. That could just be me but I felt that could have been tightened somewhat.
I highly recommend this to JAFF readers in need of a little sweet respite and Alix James' fans especially.
The ending is so cute I can't touch it with a ten foot pole or I'd spoil a very lovely thing, but I will say it put a big smile on my face. The only problem I had with the story is that I lost track of each outing's arguments and how or if they were resolved by the next day. That could just be me but I felt that could have been tightened somewhat.
I highly recommend this to JAFF readers in need of a little sweet respite and Alix James' fans especially.
March 4, 2021
Love it!
The only drawbacks to these Alix James novellas are that they end so quickly, when you'd just love for the story to go on and on. She has down pat the Lizzy Bennett wit and humor, as well as the Darcy reluctant and somewhat awkward wit , and his swoon worthy unintentional charm. As the story summary indicates, Colonel Fitzwilliam asks Darcy to flirt with Elizabeth in order to soften up Anne DeBourgh, and make her more receptive to his hope of courting her. This all happens during Elizabeth's visit to Charlotte Collins at the Hunsford parsonage. Silly premise, I know, but it's so much fun.
As usual, Darcy is oblivious to the fact that Elizabeth doesn't like him, and it's the brilliant, funny and subtle way that she enlightens him that will have you smiling and laughing. This is our Lizzy Bennett at her most clever but kind, and I fell in love with ODC all over again with their halting, but humorous steps towards each other. The author cleverly uses the first person narrative, and alternates the POV between Elizabeth and Darcy. It's wonderful when we get Darcy's thoughts as well as Elizabeth's, and in this case it adds greatly to the humor.
I'm just in awe of Alix James' ability to create, and then articulate these lovely ideas, and to do it with humor, romance, and a healthy respect for the personalities created by Jane Austen. The book is well written and well edited. It will leave you smiling and uplifted, which is such a gift. I recommend it highly.
The only drawbacks to these Alix James novellas are that they end so quickly, when you'd just love for the story to go on and on. She has down pat the Lizzy Bennett wit and humor, as well as the Darcy reluctant and somewhat awkward wit , and his swoon worthy unintentional charm. As the story summary indicates, Colonel Fitzwilliam asks Darcy to flirt with Elizabeth in order to soften up Anne DeBourgh, and make her more receptive to his hope of courting her. This all happens during Elizabeth's visit to Charlotte Collins at the Hunsford parsonage. Silly premise, I know, but it's so much fun.
As usual, Darcy is oblivious to the fact that Elizabeth doesn't like him, and it's the brilliant, funny and subtle way that she enlightens him that will have you smiling and laughing. This is our Lizzy Bennett at her most clever but kind, and I fell in love with ODC all over again with their halting, but humorous steps towards each other. The author cleverly uses the first person narrative, and alternates the POV between Elizabeth and Darcy. It's wonderful when we get Darcy's thoughts as well as Elizabeth's, and in this case it adds greatly to the humor.
I'm just in awe of Alix James' ability to create, and then articulate these lovely ideas, and to do it with humor, romance, and a healthy respect for the personalities created by Jane Austen. The book is well written and well edited. It will leave you smiling and uplifted, which is such a gift. I recommend it highly.
April 24, 2021
Light and pleasing
This is short, fluffy and almost overly sweet. The premise being that Colonel Fitzwilliam, having recently found from his doctor that he has a heart condition that would not allow him to exert himself with more overseas field campaigns, has decided to try his hand at courting Anne Dr Bourgh's attention to see if they could not make an agreeable match. That would allow him to retire from the army and take on the sedate lot of a country gentleman more suited to his ailing health. He pulls reluctant Darcy into his plans and also manipulates his aunt into demanding that Elizabeth accompany the three of them on daily rides on Rosings grounds. The objective is to give Darcy another person to talk to so he could fully concentrate on Anne.
Of course banter, barbs and deliberate flirting ensue.
The writing is elaborate and witty and the dialogue rings true to the characters. The shirt format is sadly limiting though and I would have preferred a bit longer and deeper development of events and emotions.
As it is, it's a perfect little relaxing bite of JAFF sweetness but I cannot see myself re-reading it.
This is short, fluffy and almost overly sweet. The premise being that Colonel Fitzwilliam, having recently found from his doctor that he has a heart condition that would not allow him to exert himself with more overseas field campaigns, has decided to try his hand at courting Anne Dr Bourgh's attention to see if they could not make an agreeable match. That would allow him to retire from the army and take on the sedate lot of a country gentleman more suited to his ailing health. He pulls reluctant Darcy into his plans and also manipulates his aunt into demanding that Elizabeth accompany the three of them on daily rides on Rosings grounds. The objective is to give Darcy another person to talk to so he could fully concentrate on Anne.
Of course banter, barbs and deliberate flirting ensue.
The writing is elaborate and witty and the dialogue rings true to the characters. The shirt format is sadly limiting though and I would have preferred a bit longer and deeper development of events and emotions.
As it is, it's a perfect little relaxing bite of JAFF sweetness but I cannot see myself re-reading it.
March 7, 2021
Need a lift?
This novella craftily presents itself as light hearted fluff but is truly clever. In Kent, those pivotal changes in perception Darcy and Elizabeth have are adroitly accomplished here with delightful doses of humor, awkward sweetness and honesty. No disastrous proposal - no hand delivered letter. Remarkable!
The Colonel makes a plea for help in his romantic pursuit of Anne DeBourgh, and to fully assist him, Darcy must engage “the enemy”. A plan is devised between Darcy and Elizabeth; a scheme to openly flirt and tease with each other, giving the Colonel time, and the proper cover, to court and secure Anne. Safe within their charade, D & E each ply their megawatt charm, smiles and wit to out-woo the other. They could do no less than bring their best game, of course!
Neither heart stood a chance.
This novella craftily presents itself as light hearted fluff but is truly clever. In Kent, those pivotal changes in perception Darcy and Elizabeth have are adroitly accomplished here with delightful doses of humor, awkward sweetness and honesty. No disastrous proposal - no hand delivered letter. Remarkable!
The Colonel makes a plea for help in his romantic pursuit of Anne DeBourgh, and to fully assist him, Darcy must engage “the enemy”. A plan is devised between Darcy and Elizabeth; a scheme to openly flirt and tease with each other, giving the Colonel time, and the proper cover, to court and secure Anne. Safe within their charade, D & E each ply their megawatt charm, smiles and wit to out-woo the other. They could do no less than bring their best game, of course!
Neither heart stood a chance.
February 28, 2021
I love this author's quick reads, because sometimes you just need a quick, well written JAFF without a lot of angst. In this one, flirty Darcy is fun, and the chemistry between ODC is great. In this story the POV flips back and forth between Darcy and Elizabeth, and I had a hard time keeping track of which character was the active person, which kept taking me out of the story while I tried to figure out who was being represented. I wish the transitions had been smoother, which is why this story is not a four-star for me. Still worth a read when you want something light and feel good and fun.
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March 8, 2021A little confusing
Would help lessen confusion if a chapter title clued us in when point of view is changing: both Elizabeth and Darcy have a male cousin present in the story, so sometimes contextual clues do not clarify. And the switch in emotions and behaviors is hard to relate to. I couldn't tell what was meant and what was put on, so hard to understand how the characters are feeling... which seems to be how they are feeling. So I couldn't really feel excited or happy for them because it felt like it could go wrong any minute.
Would help lessen confusion if a chapter title clued us in when point of view is changing: both Elizabeth and Darcy have a male cousin present in the story, so sometimes contextual clues do not clarify. And the switch in emotions and behaviors is hard to relate to. I couldn't tell what was meant and what was put on, so hard to understand how the characters are feeling... which seems to be how they are feeling. So I couldn't really feel excited or happy for them because it felt like it could go wrong any minute.
December 24, 2022
Que maravillosa adaptación, de verdad que Alix James siempre sorprende y da unos giros maravillosos a la trama, es un gusto para mi leerla y conocer sus brillantes nuevas ideas. .
Darcy, Elizabeth, Anne y Richard que par, de verdad que a cada rato me sacaban una carcajada o un suspiro, se me han pasado volando las páginas y con que gusto, de verdad que he amado esta historia, gracias a @cristranslate89 por darme a conocer a la autora, encantada con tu trabajo de traducción. .
Puntuación ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5. .
Darcy, Elizabeth, Anne y Richard que par, de verdad que a cada rato me sacaban una carcajada o un suspiro, se me han pasado volando las páginas y con que gusto, de verdad que he amado esta historia, gracias a @cristranslate89 por darme a conocer a la autora, encantada con tu trabajo de traducción. .
Puntuación ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5. .
May 17, 2025
Historia entretenida, lo principal que me gusto, es que tiene a una de mis parejas no canon favoritas, siempre me ha gustado este ship, siento que queda perfecto para ambos, aunque me hubiera gustado un poco mas de participación de dicha pareja. Aparte que para mi falto un por lo menos otra escena a solas de Darcy y Elizabeth después de la declaración. Pero siempre es lo que me sucede con historias cortas, y a veces también con las larga, siempre quiero un poco mas.
Eso si, muy divertidas las escenas en donde los dos andaban de coquetos.
Eso si, muy divertidas las escenas en donde los dos andaban de coquetos.
January 26, 2023
Light Romance
Well written with good dialogue. A light, breezy romance. The Colonel wants to have some private conversations with Anne DeBourgh. Lady Catherine presents a major impediment to that goal. He suggests a situation where Darcy may woo Anne while Elizabeth chaperones and he keeps Elizabeth occupied. In reality, the Colonel and Anne are manipulating Darcy into wooing Elizabeth.
Well written with good dialogue. A light, breezy romance. The Colonel wants to have some private conversations with Anne DeBourgh. Lady Catherine presents a major impediment to that goal. He suggests a situation where Darcy may woo Anne while Elizabeth chaperones and he keeps Elizabeth occupied. In reality, the Colonel and Anne are manipulating Darcy into wooing Elizabeth.
February 27, 2021
A very sweet ride
Enjoyable mini-alternate universe at Hunsford where Darcy and Elizabeth are manipulated into a pretend courtship that opens their eyes to reality. Fun plot, lovely witticisms, sweet romance and no angst. Excellent writing, including lovely phrases such as "wanton scones" and "mooncalfed meekness". Fun and sweetly romantic.
Enjoyable mini-alternate universe at Hunsford where Darcy and Elizabeth are manipulated into a pretend courtship that opens their eyes to reality. Fun plot, lovely witticisms, sweet romance and no angst. Excellent writing, including lovely phrases such as "wanton scones" and "mooncalfed meekness". Fun and sweetly romantic.
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