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Some Natural Importance
“It is the way of the world, Elizabeth. Men hold power over women, but I am not a man who wants to wield such power. I would prefer a woman who has some power over me.”
Fitzwilliam Darcy already has one arranged marriage in his past. The last thing he envisions for himself is another, yet he has somehow become entrapped in a promise to a dying man. Not only must Darcy overcome his resentment in order to live up to his sense of honour, but when he realises how deeply his heart may be engaged, he must convince Elizabeth Bennet of his true feelings.
Elizabeth never expected the imperious Mr Darcy to become a good friend of an idle gentleman like her father. And she certainly never anticipated they would form a secret pact compelling her marriage to a man she dislikes. She must set aside grief and resentment, as well as her suspicions: Is Darcy using her to avoid another bride pushed onto him by his family, or to gain riches Elizabeth never knew she had?
Or is it possible he loves her?
Fitzwilliam Darcy already has one arranged marriage in his past. The last thing he envisions for himself is another, yet he has somehow become entrapped in a promise to a dying man. Not only must Darcy overcome his resentment in order to live up to his sense of honour, but when he realises how deeply his heart may be engaged, he must convince Elizabeth Bennet of his true feelings.
Elizabeth never expected the imperious Mr Darcy to become a good friend of an idle gentleman like her father. And she certainly never anticipated they would form a secret pact compelling her marriage to a man she dislikes. She must set aside grief and resentment, as well as her suspicions: Is Darcy using her to avoid another bride pushed onto him by his family, or to gain riches Elizabeth never knew she had?
Or is it possible he loves her?
405 pages, ebook
First published May 10, 2021
166 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
About the author
Jan Ashton
24 books105 followersAuthor and editor of Austenesque novels, lover of history and romance, co-founder of Quills & Quartos Publishing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
June 17, 2021
In this variation Darcy becomes good friends with Mr. Bennet seeing him not only as an intellectual equal but also as a father-figure . Elizabeth often observes as the two men play chess. However their friendship also involves Mr. Bennet taking some interest in both some property he owns outside of the entailed Longbourn and in how he will set up his will...what he will leave and/or direct for his family upon his death. Ironically this also involves Darcy, both in a financial way but also in gaining a husband for one of his daughters.
SPOILER: Elizabeth knows nothing about all this so is surprised....when the will is read. Yes, Mr. Bennet dies. Collins has already made his presence known with his own plans for an "olive branch" offered to the family. However in this story it is Darcy who is his benefactor and as such Darcy directs Collins as a way of protecting Mrs. Bennet and her daughters.
Darcy has already had one marriage and it was done to protect his family's reputation. Few know the real reasons he took on that onerous partnership. Thus, his family, mostly his Uncle, Lord Matlock, and that man's second wife believe he will again follow their dictates. Matlock has reasons which will benefit his situation which has become dire with his second wife's spending habits.
So Elizabeth has to come to terms with her father's dictates. Much of the story evolves around her learning of this and coming to understand the "why" and to accept it. She also comes to a point where she questions Darcy's motivations in befriending her father and in the marriage arrangement. Wickham has much to do with her questioning that motivation, of course.
Interwoven with this story is some history...that of the Roman occupation of Britain and the discovery of coins from that era.
I found this story to be a page turner. Darcy's family pressures for him to marry as to their dictates versus his evolving relationship with Elizabeth...be it only due to her father's dictates or something more that he sees and values in her character kept my interest.
I recommend this story. I received an ARC of this story. The views expressed here are all my own.
SPOILER: Elizabeth knows nothing about all this so is surprised....when the will is read. Yes, Mr. Bennet dies. Collins has already made his presence known with his own plans for an "olive branch" offered to the family. However in this story it is Darcy who is his benefactor and as such Darcy directs Collins as a way of protecting Mrs. Bennet and her daughters.
Darcy has already had one marriage and it was done to protect his family's reputation. Few know the real reasons he took on that onerous partnership. Thus, his family, mostly his Uncle, Lord Matlock, and that man's second wife believe he will again follow their dictates. Matlock has reasons which will benefit his situation which has become dire with his second wife's spending habits.
So Elizabeth has to come to terms with her father's dictates. Much of the story evolves around her learning of this and coming to understand the "why" and to accept it. She also comes to a point where she questions Darcy's motivations in befriending her father and in the marriage arrangement. Wickham has much to do with her questioning that motivation, of course.
Interwoven with this story is some history...that of the Roman occupation of Britain and the discovery of coins from that era.
I found this story to be a page turner. Darcy's family pressures for him to marry as to their dictates versus his evolving relationship with Elizabeth...be it only due to her father's dictates or something more that he sees and values in her character kept my interest.
I recommend this story. I received an ARC of this story. The views expressed here are all my own.
May 10, 2021
Rating: MA: mature-reader due to adult themes discussed and shocking family secrets revealed: Angst Level: medium-to-high due to the increase of family drama: tissues required several times: Source: I received an ARC via Booksprout [4-5-21]. The views and opinions expressed are my own. This review may contain *** Spoilers ***
The Prologue was the most gripping, frustrating, and aggravating start to a story that I’ve read in a while. I wanted to throw my device but held on tight. I also resisted the urge to reach in and grab the SBRB [scum-bag-rat-bastard] and rip his smarmy head off. OMG! That prologue grabbed me and ICNPID [I-could-not-put-it-down]. It was the wee hours of the morning and my eyes were too bleary to continue reading. I finally went to bed. Yawn! I need a nap.
I loved this story. The relationship between Mr. Bennet and Mr. Darcy was so touching I wanted to cry. Here was a man Bennet could admire and would love having as a son. Darcy, who missed his own father, found common ground with the Longbourn patriarch. It was a friendship that would have a long-lasting consequence for everyone.
“You have to defend your honor. And your family.” Suzanne Vega
Darcy: OMG! I absolutely loved this man. Bless his heart. He was caught between a rock and a hard place and stepped up many times to do the right thing. The De Bourgh family was no friend to this honorable man. Goodness! I wanted to weep for him, to rail at the injustice of the position his Aunt Catherine put him in. We then had to deal with the SBRB spewing lies and falsehoods against his godfather’s son. His appearance in the epilogue didn’t come soon enough for me but it was appropriate.
“My family is my strength and my weakness.” –Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
Fitzwilliam family: Lord and Lady Matlock were horrid in their thoughts and opinions regarding Darcy and his marriage prospects. Matlock was looking for a way to shore up the earldom. His Lady wife [2nd wife] and step-daughter were spending him into deeper debt than he could manage. It was simple. Darcy needed a wife. By aligning their properties, Matlock would benefit from Darcy’s political influence, his connections, and his wealth. Question: Why do people, who spend their fortunes irresponsibly, think nothing of expecting others [who are careful with their holdings] to bail them out? Darcy was only a means to an end. They cared nothing for him as a person. GRRR! I wanted to spit nails. Lady Matlock felt that only her daughter was deserving of the title Mistress of Pemberley.
What I didn’t like: there were parts of the story that lagged a bit. The other part that confused me was the OOC [out-of-character] behavior of some of the characters. They ran hot and cold throughout the story and I couldn’t seem to get a handle on their behavior. I couldn’t figure out whether to hate them or like them. It was confusing. Georgiana was one example and the other was Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam. I’ve never been so indecisive over the Colonel as I was in this story. He just wasn’t the brother/cousin that we are accustomed to seeing. Another thing that frustrated me was Caroline Bingley didn’t receive a comeuppance for her treachery. OMG! She did the unthinkable and should have been held accountable for that. That lady [who was no lady] should never/ever set foot on any Darcy property EVER!! Although, I did appreciate Bingley having a backbone in this story. I liked him. I do enjoy an epilogue; however, not all my questions were answered. I still enjoyed it and highly recommend this delightful story.
The Prologue was the most gripping, frustrating, and aggravating start to a story that I’ve read in a while. I wanted to throw my device but held on tight. I also resisted the urge to reach in and grab the SBRB [scum-bag-rat-bastard] and rip his smarmy head off. OMG! That prologue grabbed me and ICNPID [I-could-not-put-it-down]. It was the wee hours of the morning and my eyes were too bleary to continue reading. I finally went to bed. Yawn! I need a nap.
I loved this story. The relationship between Mr. Bennet and Mr. Darcy was so touching I wanted to cry. Here was a man Bennet could admire and would love having as a son. Darcy, who missed his own father, found common ground with the Longbourn patriarch. It was a friendship that would have a long-lasting consequence for everyone.
“You have to defend your honor. And your family.” Suzanne Vega
Darcy: OMG! I absolutely loved this man. Bless his heart. He was caught between a rock and a hard place and stepped up many times to do the right thing. The De Bourgh family was no friend to this honorable man. Goodness! I wanted to weep for him, to rail at the injustice of the position his Aunt Catherine put him in. We then had to deal with the SBRB spewing lies and falsehoods against his godfather’s son. His appearance in the epilogue didn’t come soon enough for me but it was appropriate.
“My family is my strength and my weakness.” –Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
Fitzwilliam family: Lord and Lady Matlock were horrid in their thoughts and opinions regarding Darcy and his marriage prospects. Matlock was looking for a way to shore up the earldom. His Lady wife [2nd wife] and step-daughter were spending him into deeper debt than he could manage. It was simple. Darcy needed a wife. By aligning their properties, Matlock would benefit from Darcy’s political influence, his connections, and his wealth. Question: Why do people, who spend their fortunes irresponsibly, think nothing of expecting others [who are careful with their holdings] to bail them out? Darcy was only a means to an end. They cared nothing for him as a person. GRRR! I wanted to spit nails. Lady Matlock felt that only her daughter was deserving of the title Mistress of Pemberley.
What I didn’t like: there were parts of the story that lagged a bit. The other part that confused me was the OOC [out-of-character] behavior of some of the characters. They ran hot and cold throughout the story and I couldn’t seem to get a handle on their behavior. I couldn’t figure out whether to hate them or like them. It was confusing. Georgiana was one example and the other was Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam. I’ve never been so indecisive over the Colonel as I was in this story. He just wasn’t the brother/cousin that we are accustomed to seeing. Another thing that frustrated me was Caroline Bingley didn’t receive a comeuppance for her treachery. OMG! She did the unthinkable and should have been held accountable for that. That lady [who was no lady] should never/ever set foot on any Darcy property EVER!! Although, I did appreciate Bingley having a backbone in this story. I liked him. I do enjoy an epilogue; however, not all my questions were answered. I still enjoyed it and highly recommend this delightful story.
August 20, 2022
Feb. 2022 - Audiobook. David Pickering was the perfect choice to narrate this Darcy dominant story.
An excellent dramatization!
This story started out with high drama and intrigue, which lagged a little around the 30% mark. It picked up again to a low key angst as ODC work through their feelings.
Darcy, escaping from family pressure and manipulations, arrives at Netherfield and befriends Mr. Bennet. Almost usurping Elizabeth's place in her father's sanctuary, she doesn't view him with a kind eye and has conflicting feelings. Meanwhile, Mr. Bennet is hiding a serious illness, Mr. Collins is hovering like a vulture and Elizabeth is missing Jane, who is helping out the Gardiners in London. Mr. Bingley takes advantage of a business trip to London to seek Jane out, after hearing so much about her.
Still hiding the fact he is dying, Mr. Bennet enlists Darcy's help with a plot of land he had purchased outside of the entail, to finally do something to safeguard his family's future. Unbeknownst to Darcy, Bennet had hidden a surprise, furthering the agenda of what he believes to be in the best interest of his whole family, but especially his favorite daughter and his new friend.
The second Lady Matlock is as bad as Lady C ever was. Lord Matlock sees Darcy as a bank account and even Richard is not wholly the friend to Darcy he could be. Anne, Mr. D's first wife and Lady C have already passed, leaving behind secrets Darcy swore he would never reveal, but lead to the detriment of his character. Through all the emotional upheavals in their path can ODC find the treasure hidden in plain sight?
A good story, well written and guaranteed HEA.
I received an ARC for my honest opinion.
An excellent dramatization!
This story started out with high drama and intrigue, which lagged a little around the 30% mark. It picked up again to a low key angst as ODC work through their feelings.
Darcy, escaping from family pressure and manipulations, arrives at Netherfield and befriends Mr. Bennet. Almost usurping Elizabeth's place in her father's sanctuary, she doesn't view him with a kind eye and has conflicting feelings. Meanwhile, Mr. Bennet is hiding a serious illness, Mr. Collins is hovering like a vulture and Elizabeth is missing Jane, who is helping out the Gardiners in London. Mr. Bingley takes advantage of a business trip to London to seek Jane out, after hearing so much about her.
Still hiding the fact he is dying, Mr. Bennet enlists Darcy's help with a plot of land he had purchased outside of the entail, to finally do something to safeguard his family's future. Unbeknownst to Darcy, Bennet had hidden a surprise, furthering the agenda of what he believes to be in the best interest of his whole family, but especially his favorite daughter and his new friend.
The second Lady Matlock is as bad as Lady C ever was. Lord Matlock sees Darcy as a bank account and even Richard is not wholly the friend to Darcy he could be. Anne, Mr. D's first wife and Lady C have already passed, leaving behind secrets Darcy swore he would never reveal, but lead to the detriment of his character. Through all the emotional upheavals in their path can ODC find the treasure hidden in plain sight?
A good story, well written and guaranteed HEA.
I received an ARC for my honest opinion.
April 19, 2021
5+ stars
This book is as much about the friendship between Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bennet as it is about Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth. It makes sense - both men are quiet and studious, and they only reluctantly interact with society. It's my own long-held belief that their personality similarities would foster a lovely surrogate father-son relationship, so I love seeing that vision explored in depth here.
Darcy's stay at Netherfield, unfortunately, has meant the unappealing prospect of time in company with Bingley's two unpleasant sisters. Longbourn boasts the master's study, which is a haven offering thoughtful literary discussion, enjoyable chess matches, and escape from the ladies of both estates - except (sometimes) Elizabeth Bennet, though Darcy isn't certain he wishes to escape from her. Consequently, he visits frequently. As his fascination with Elizabeth increases, he also manages to encounter her often during her morning walks. Elizabeth, meanwhile, is furious with this interloper who has replaced her in her beloved father's study and, apparently, in his confidence.
This Mr. Darcy has a slightly different history, having been widowed not long after marrying Anne de Bourgh several years ago. Mr. Wickham's lies to Elizabeth paint Mr. Darcy as a spendthrift and opportunist who squandered his own inheritance and married Anne only to gain control of Rosings. In actuality, Darcy had married Anne out of a combination of kindness and familial duty.
Now his Fitzwilliam relatives are pressuring him to marry yet another cousin, Celia Fitzwilliam. Although she's a more acceptable match than Anne had been, Darcy has no interest in wedding her. Chafing at the incessant pressure from the Earl and Countess of Matlock, Darcy heads to Hertfordshire more to get away from them than to guide Bingley in estate management.
Of course, Darcy and Mr. Bennet have significant differences, and these comes into play in a big way. Realizing that he's dying, Mr. Bennet has some urgent requests of his young friend. An asset he procured years ago to protect his wife and daughters after his death must be protected so it does not end up in the hands of Mr. Collins due to the entail. There's more to it than that, though, and Darcy finds it's not only the Fitzwilliams making unreasonable demands on him.
The Fitzwilliams continue to turn the screws on Darcy in correspondence and then by sending Colonel Fitzwilliam after him. Elizabeth has her own problems: the entire Bennet family is in turmoil, and Mr. Bennet's secrecy makes things exponentially worse. It's the kind of angst I appreciate because it's not based on silly misunderstandings but on real problems with substance to them.
The writing is beautiful, and the book is nicely edited. It boasts excellent three-dimensional characterizations throughout. The interactions between Elizabeth and Darcy are particularly well-done, with both obviously in love long before they're able to acknowledge it to themselves. I appreciate any book that explores the potential of the Mr. Darcy-Mr. Bennet relationship, and it's developed to perfection here. Darcy's relationship with Colonel Fitzwilliam is more complex than usual - as family relationships often are. The colonel is unaware of some important facts Darcy hasn't shared, and he's stuck in the middle between his close friendship with his cousin and his own familial duty to his father, stepmother, and stepsister. The Countess of Matlock (the earl's second wife) fills the role of antagonist well.
Highly recommend! Content is clean.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is as much about the friendship between Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bennet as it is about Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth. It makes sense - both men are quiet and studious, and they only reluctantly interact with society. It's my own long-held belief that their personality similarities would foster a lovely surrogate father-son relationship, so I love seeing that vision explored in depth here.
Darcy's stay at Netherfield, unfortunately, has meant the unappealing prospect of time in company with Bingley's two unpleasant sisters. Longbourn boasts the master's study, which is a haven offering thoughtful literary discussion, enjoyable chess matches, and escape from the ladies of both estates - except (sometimes) Elizabeth Bennet, though Darcy isn't certain he wishes to escape from her. Consequently, he visits frequently. As his fascination with Elizabeth increases, he also manages to encounter her often during her morning walks. Elizabeth, meanwhile, is furious with this interloper who has replaced her in her beloved father's study and, apparently, in his confidence.
This Mr. Darcy has a slightly different history, having been widowed not long after marrying Anne de Bourgh several years ago. Mr. Wickham's lies to Elizabeth paint Mr. Darcy as a spendthrift and opportunist who squandered his own inheritance and married Anne only to gain control of Rosings. In actuality, Darcy had married Anne out of a combination of kindness and familial duty.
Now his Fitzwilliam relatives are pressuring him to marry yet another cousin, Celia Fitzwilliam. Although she's a more acceptable match than Anne had been, Darcy has no interest in wedding her. Chafing at the incessant pressure from the Earl and Countess of Matlock, Darcy heads to Hertfordshire more to get away from them than to guide Bingley in estate management.
Of course, Darcy and Mr. Bennet have significant differences, and these comes into play in a big way. Realizing that he's dying, Mr. Bennet has some urgent requests of his young friend. An asset he procured years ago to protect his wife and daughters after his death must be protected so it does not end up in the hands of Mr. Collins due to the entail. There's more to it than that, though, and Darcy finds it's not only the Fitzwilliams making unreasonable demands on him.
The Fitzwilliams continue to turn the screws on Darcy in correspondence and then by sending Colonel Fitzwilliam after him. Elizabeth has her own problems: the entire Bennet family is in turmoil, and Mr. Bennet's secrecy makes things exponentially worse. It's the kind of angst I appreciate because it's not based on silly misunderstandings but on real problems with substance to them.
The writing is beautiful, and the book is nicely edited. It boasts excellent three-dimensional characterizations throughout. The interactions between Elizabeth and Darcy are particularly well-done, with both obviously in love long before they're able to acknowledge it to themselves. I appreciate any book that explores the potential of the Mr. Darcy-Mr. Bennet relationship, and it's developed to perfection here. Darcy's relationship with Colonel Fitzwilliam is more complex than usual - as family relationships often are. The colonel is unaware of some important facts Darcy hasn't shared, and he's stuck in the middle between his close friendship with his cousin and his own familial duty to his father, stepmother, and stepsister. The Countess of Matlock (the earl's second wife) fills the role of antagonist well.
Highly recommend! Content is clean.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 20, 2025
The best time to make friends is before you need them. ~ Jamaican proverb
“Some Natural Importance” is a story built upon male bonding: an improbable friendship develops between Fitzwilliam Darcy and Mr. Bennet, father to five daughters.
We learn in the prologue that Darcy has married Anne de Bourgh and been widowed within months of the wedding. Lady Catherine has followed her daughter to the grave. Darcy is prized as a marriage partner within London society and is especially prized by his Uncle the Earl, who wants Darcy to marry his step-daughter. In fact, the entire Fitzwilliam family seems set on the marriage — everyone except Darcy himself. Darcy has married once to save the family honor. He refuses a second such marriage and suspects the family’s motives for wishing for the match. Playing the role usually assigned to Lady Catherine, we have the second Countess of Matlock. Even Darcy’s usual friendship with Colonel Fitzwilliam is tense and not always friendly.
Quote from the book: This time, however, the discussion was more direct: marry your cousin.
Was it not enough he had already married one when he stepped up to save Anne’s reputation? His own father dead scarcely a year, and all his focus on learning how to manage Pemberley and care for his young orphaned sister, yet he had done as his desperate aunt begged him …
Darcy seizes on the excuse of Bingley’s need for a mentor and leaves for Hertfordshire. There, he seeks a respite from Bingley’s sister and begins to visit Longbourn to play chess with Mr. Bennet.
Only your real friends will tell you when your face is dirty. ~ Sicilian proverb
Quote from the book: Mr. Darcy looked up at her, his hand poised above the chessboard. Her father turned and gave her a small smile. She attempted to return it but her surprise was apparent; Mr. Bennet allowed but few in his sanctuary, and certainly not one of such short acquaintance. She stood in the doorway, uncertain whether to enter. Uncertain of her own welcome!
Can a friendship develop between Darcy and Elizabeth when the first emotion created by the man is jealousy? Elizabeth feels displaced. Darcy even has usurped Elizabeth’s usual chair!
Despite denials from Bennet, Darcy becomes convinced the older man is seriously ill.
Years before, Mr. Bennet had purchased a house situated on a small plot of land when a neighbor needed to sell. Darcy has reason to believe a treasure might be found on the land. The men agree on a plan to provide for the Bennet women and they consider a possible life for Elizabeth. I especially liked the tie-in to modern times at the very end.
How long will it take for Elizabeth to discover happiness with a man of “some natural importance?”
The book kept me riveted all the way. Like everything from Quills & Quartos, It is well-written, proofread, and edited.
Hold a true friend with both your hands. ~ Nigerian proverb
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
“Some Natural Importance” is a story built upon male bonding: an improbable friendship develops between Fitzwilliam Darcy and Mr. Bennet, father to five daughters.
We learn in the prologue that Darcy has married Anne de Bourgh and been widowed within months of the wedding. Lady Catherine has followed her daughter to the grave. Darcy is prized as a marriage partner within London society and is especially prized by his Uncle the Earl, who wants Darcy to marry his step-daughter. In fact, the entire Fitzwilliam family seems set on the marriage — everyone except Darcy himself. Darcy has married once to save the family honor. He refuses a second such marriage and suspects the family’s motives for wishing for the match. Playing the role usually assigned to Lady Catherine, we have the second Countess of Matlock. Even Darcy’s usual friendship with Colonel Fitzwilliam is tense and not always friendly.
Quote from the book: This time, however, the discussion was more direct: marry your cousin.
Was it not enough he had already married one when he stepped up to save Anne’s reputation? His own father dead scarcely a year, and all his focus on learning how to manage Pemberley and care for his young orphaned sister, yet he had done as his desperate aunt begged him …
Darcy seizes on the excuse of Bingley’s need for a mentor and leaves for Hertfordshire. There, he seeks a respite from Bingley’s sister and begins to visit Longbourn to play chess with Mr. Bennet.
Only your real friends will tell you when your face is dirty. ~ Sicilian proverb
Quote from the book: Mr. Darcy looked up at her, his hand poised above the chessboard. Her father turned and gave her a small smile. She attempted to return it but her surprise was apparent; Mr. Bennet allowed but few in his sanctuary, and certainly not one of such short acquaintance. She stood in the doorway, uncertain whether to enter. Uncertain of her own welcome!
Can a friendship develop between Darcy and Elizabeth when the first emotion created by the man is jealousy? Elizabeth feels displaced. Darcy even has usurped Elizabeth’s usual chair!
Despite denials from Bennet, Darcy becomes convinced the older man is seriously ill.
Years before, Mr. Bennet had purchased a house situated on a small plot of land when a neighbor needed to sell. Darcy has reason to believe a treasure might be found on the land. The men agree on a plan to provide for the Bennet women and they consider a possible life for Elizabeth. I especially liked the tie-in to modern times at the very end.
How long will it take for Elizabeth to discover happiness with a man of “some natural importance?”
The book kept me riveted all the way. Like everything from Quills & Quartos, It is well-written, proofread, and edited.
Hold a true friend with both your hands. ~ Nigerian proverb
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 10, 2025
Arranged Marriage
The book has an earlier beginning than in canon and begins in 1808. It starts with a Prologue that grabs your immediate attention in which we discover Wickham in London besmirching the good name of Fitzwilliam Darcy. It’s not the typical narrative about the living in Kympton either. He infers Darcy is not as wealthy as he appears due to the very “vicious propensities” of which Wickham himself is guilty, and prepares to tell more to his eager listeners. I’ll leave that for the reader to discover.
Succumbing to the pressure of his Aunt Lady Catherine, Darcy had married Anne in order to protect her shocking secret, and her honour—himself never revealing that secret. A few years after Anne’s death, in Chapter One (1811), he once again finds himself in London being coerced by his family—Lord and Lady Matlock (a second wife) to marry her daughter, his step-cousin. Even Richard’s trust becomes becomes suspect eventually. The Matlocks are also in need of his wealth. He is not interested, and to escape the never-ending babble, joins Bingley at Netherfield.
Elizabeth is finding her surroundings dull and boring. Jane is in London with the Gardiners. Neither have yet to meet the new neighbour and his friend. Upon making acquaintances, Mr. Bennet and Darcy escape to the Bennet’s book room, where they develop a friendship over books and chess, while Bingley entertains the ladies and listens to Mrs. Bennet praise and promote Jane, who remains in London. Elizabeth has become jealous of her father’s new friendship, and she resents Darcy usurping her place with him, not to mention her special chair, and she feels shut out.
Unknown to Elizabeth, Mr. Bennet is dying and concocts a plan to have Darcy marry his Lizzy. At first Darcy is vexed and feels betrayed by Bennet, thinking his friendship was just to make a match with his daughter. When his anger suffuses, he acknowledges to himself he admires her. Can he convince her to marry him? Threatened with marriage to Mr. Collins, will Mr. Darcy be the lesser of two evils for Elizabeth? There is also a nice little sub-plot surrounding a gold coin Darcy discovers in Mr. Bennet’s book room.
I really liked this Darcy. The poor guy is besieged with a sense of duty filled with resentment for being pressed to forego his own happiness. He really doesn’t want to do that again. He is a true gentleman throughout this book, and becomes a protector of the Bennet ladies. Bingley is also good in this book. He is too often made to look so weak and I find myself getting tired of that. I appreciated this likable and guiltless portrayal of him very much.
There is a quality of excellence in Jan Ashton’s writing skill that I admire highly— a beginning that draws me directly into the story, and a very satisfying progression that never fails my interest and attention. This book is no exception, and I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 10, 2022 - Audiobook
An excellent performance by David Pickering, a favourite narrator.
The book has an earlier beginning than in canon and begins in 1808. It starts with a Prologue that grabs your immediate attention in which we discover Wickham in London besmirching the good name of Fitzwilliam Darcy. It’s not the typical narrative about the living in Kympton either. He infers Darcy is not as wealthy as he appears due to the very “vicious propensities” of which Wickham himself is guilty, and prepares to tell more to his eager listeners. I’ll leave that for the reader to discover.
Succumbing to the pressure of his Aunt Lady Catherine, Darcy had married Anne in order to protect her shocking secret, and her honour—himself never revealing that secret. A few years after Anne’s death, in Chapter One (1811), he once again finds himself in London being coerced by his family—Lord and Lady Matlock (a second wife) to marry her daughter, his step-cousin. Even Richard’s trust becomes becomes suspect eventually. The Matlocks are also in need of his wealth. He is not interested, and to escape the never-ending babble, joins Bingley at Netherfield.
Elizabeth is finding her surroundings dull and boring. Jane is in London with the Gardiners. Neither have yet to meet the new neighbour and his friend. Upon making acquaintances, Mr. Bennet and Darcy escape to the Bennet’s book room, where they develop a friendship over books and chess, while Bingley entertains the ladies and listens to Mrs. Bennet praise and promote Jane, who remains in London. Elizabeth has become jealous of her father’s new friendship, and she resents Darcy usurping her place with him, not to mention her special chair, and she feels shut out.
Unknown to Elizabeth, Mr. Bennet is dying and concocts a plan to have Darcy marry his Lizzy. At first Darcy is vexed and feels betrayed by Bennet, thinking his friendship was just to make a match with his daughter. When his anger suffuses, he acknowledges to himself he admires her. Can he convince her to marry him? Threatened with marriage to Mr. Collins, will Mr. Darcy be the lesser of two evils for Elizabeth? There is also a nice little sub-plot surrounding a gold coin Darcy discovers in Mr. Bennet’s book room.
I really liked this Darcy. The poor guy is besieged with a sense of duty filled with resentment for being pressed to forego his own happiness. He really doesn’t want to do that again. He is a true gentleman throughout this book, and becomes a protector of the Bennet ladies. Bingley is also good in this book. He is too often made to look so weak and I find myself getting tired of that. I appreciated this likable and guiltless portrayal of him very much.
There is a quality of excellence in Jan Ashton’s writing skill that I admire highly— a beginning that draws me directly into the story, and a very satisfying progression that never fails my interest and attention. This book is no exception, and I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 10, 2022 - Audiobook
An excellent performance by David Pickering, a favourite narrator.
July 18, 2021
A widower who wed for duty the first time and pressured by family to wed for the same reason once again finds himself attracted to a vivacious young lady who he must persuade is not a duty to him. Characters and scenes from Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice grace this newest release by an author I have long meant to try, but an all new story has emerged with some variation.
Fitzwilliam Darcy married Anne de Bourgh to save her pain and reputation. She was sickly and is now gone leaving him the owner of a united vast estate. But, being free once again and out of mourning finds him pressured by his Fitzwilliam family to wed his uncle’s step-daughter, Cecilia, and an old nemesis has been blackening his name around London society. Darcy escapes it all at the side of his friend, Charles Bingley, into Hertfordshire where he meets a kindred spirit in a quiet, intellectual Mr. Bennet who just happens to have five unmarried daughters and an entailed estate. While the second daughter, Miss Elizabeth attracts him, he is weary of being compelled to do his duty to yet another man’s request to save his family.
I am one of those impossible readers. I enjoy dramatic stories, but I can’t stand over the top angst- yes, that is subjectively defined by me as what I consider drama for drama’s sake instead of what comes natural to the story. This book introduces a man who has drama swirling around him from everyone he encounters or so it seems, but, happily, the story never felt angsty.
I loved seeing a man of great wealth and power put on the ropes in almost an underdog situation, but with this incredible heart to help others who are in trouble. He has pride, but not the arrogance and wrong use of his power that he is reputed to have. I loved seeing Darcy discover a friend in the older, sickly Mr. Bennet.
Bennet is cunning and, unlike Austen’s character of the same name, this one has made provision as best he could for his family, but he needs Darcy’s help to execute this and would have his new young friend for one of his daughters.
Elizabeth Bennet resents Darcy’s taking her place as her father’s bosom friend and confidante even as she is drawn to him and catches glimpses of the depth and complexity that matches her own. She doesn’t know the whole picture and this leaves her vulnerable to vicious, pointed lies about Darcy from his nemesis Wickham. The middle of the book slows and even drags a bit, but it was mostly necessary because Elizabeth and Darcy need time to untangle all that has gone before it and face the machinations of his Fitzwilliam side of the family even Colonel Fitzwilliam who isn’t always his friend and the others who work to sabotage them and their relationship. Darcy doesn’t want a reluctant bride or a marriage from duty. He needs Elizabeth’s love and respect and she is no easy sell- man, does she resist an awful long time.
The romance is not the only strong element and I enjoyed seeing the relationships of other types like friendship and family, secondary romances, and personal growth create a more layered compelling story.
I enjoyed the tone of the book that kept it from getting broody or obnoxious with all the various people and their agendas around Darcy and Elizabeth. All the emotion was organic to the story and the tension was well-placed. I loved the resolves.
All in all, it was a satisfying read that was hard to put down and a book I easily lost myself inside. Those who love variations on the classic or a well-written sweet historical romance should definitely pick this one up.
My thanks to Quills and Quatros for the chance to read the print copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Fitzwilliam Darcy married Anne de Bourgh to save her pain and reputation. She was sickly and is now gone leaving him the owner of a united vast estate. But, being free once again and out of mourning finds him pressured by his Fitzwilliam family to wed his uncle’s step-daughter, Cecilia, and an old nemesis has been blackening his name around London society. Darcy escapes it all at the side of his friend, Charles Bingley, into Hertfordshire where he meets a kindred spirit in a quiet, intellectual Mr. Bennet who just happens to have five unmarried daughters and an entailed estate. While the second daughter, Miss Elizabeth attracts him, he is weary of being compelled to do his duty to yet another man’s request to save his family.
I am one of those impossible readers. I enjoy dramatic stories, but I can’t stand over the top angst- yes, that is subjectively defined by me as what I consider drama for drama’s sake instead of what comes natural to the story. This book introduces a man who has drama swirling around him from everyone he encounters or so it seems, but, happily, the story never felt angsty.
I loved seeing a man of great wealth and power put on the ropes in almost an underdog situation, but with this incredible heart to help others who are in trouble. He has pride, but not the arrogance and wrong use of his power that he is reputed to have. I loved seeing Darcy discover a friend in the older, sickly Mr. Bennet.
Bennet is cunning and, unlike Austen’s character of the same name, this one has made provision as best he could for his family, but he needs Darcy’s help to execute this and would have his new young friend for one of his daughters.
Elizabeth Bennet resents Darcy’s taking her place as her father’s bosom friend and confidante even as she is drawn to him and catches glimpses of the depth and complexity that matches her own. She doesn’t know the whole picture and this leaves her vulnerable to vicious, pointed lies about Darcy from his nemesis Wickham. The middle of the book slows and even drags a bit, but it was mostly necessary because Elizabeth and Darcy need time to untangle all that has gone before it and face the machinations of his Fitzwilliam side of the family even Colonel Fitzwilliam who isn’t always his friend and the others who work to sabotage them and their relationship. Darcy doesn’t want a reluctant bride or a marriage from duty. He needs Elizabeth’s love and respect and she is no easy sell- man, does she resist an awful long time.
The romance is not the only strong element and I enjoyed seeing the relationships of other types like friendship and family, secondary romances, and personal growth create a more layered compelling story.
I enjoyed the tone of the book that kept it from getting broody or obnoxious with all the various people and their agendas around Darcy and Elizabeth. All the emotion was organic to the story and the tension was well-placed. I loved the resolves.
All in all, it was a satisfying read that was hard to put down and a book I easily lost myself inside. Those who love variations on the classic or a well-written sweet historical romance should definitely pick this one up.
My thanks to Quills and Quatros for the chance to read the print copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2021
"Now, prepare yourself for something very dreadful. Very dreadful, indeed." (quote from the book)
And so our story opens with Mr. Wickham gossiping about the widowed Mr. Darcy. In this unique twist, Mr. Darcy decides to escape the pressure his Fitzwilliam family is putting on him to marry his step-cousin, Cecilia Fitzwilliam. He decides to take up Mr. Bingley's offer to visit Hertfordshire.
"With all his mastery of detail and attention to creating solutions, it was beyond the pale that one area of his life constantly vexed him: his family." (quote from the book)
Elizabeth Bennet is missing her sister, Jane, who is helping her Aunt Gardiner in London. She is restless and not overly impressed with the new inhabitants of Netherfield Park...though Mr. Bingley is pleasant enough. What happens when Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bennet become friendly? How does Elizabeth handle the 'green-eyed monster' when Mr. Darcy starts spending more and more time with her father and usurping her position? I did enjoy the camaraderie between Mr. Bennet and Mr. Darcy. Each needed the other, not only for the friendship, but for the emotional grounding that came from it.
"At twenty years of age, she felt herself...if not on the cusp of some great change, at least in need of it." (quote from the book)
Little does Elizabeth know what has really gone on in the study until it is to late. How can she reconcile herself with the man who replaced her in her father's study with the man who comes to their rescue.
"He was uncertain of her feelings towards him as his towards her, but no one in his acquaintance could challenge his composure as this impertinent slip of a girl did." (quote from the book)
I enjoyed the unique twists of this variation that has Mr. Darcy fighting for his future, his reputation and his love. And, I enjoyed the battle that Elizabeth Bennet waged in her heart and mind to truly see what was right in front of her and come to realize how much she loved him.
I do wish there was a bit more at the end. I felt it got wrapped up too quickly and that some of the antagonists could have had more of a comeuppance...though one did get what they deserved.
All-in-all, a very satisfying novel that I highly recommend!
May 12, 2021
Almost a great story
Complex story I found excellent except for a. Retain type of angst going on and on and on. 4.5 stars rounded down to 4 stars.
SPOILERS
Lizzy fights wanting to marry Darcy for too long in the story. When father Bennet dies, if not for Darcy she would have had to marry Collins, who works for Darcy since he owns Rosings or the family would be in the hedgerows. The angst about not having a choice was well deserved but went on too long. Made her seem unreasonable and/or ungrateful.
Another problem was Jane marries Bingley after Caroline has been just awful. Nothing is ever done to keep her from making Jane’s life miserable when she marries Bingley so Jane will probably never be happy or even have children in a loving home.
Complex story I found excellent except for a. Retain type of angst going on and on and on. 4.5 stars rounded down to 4 stars.
SPOILERS
Lizzy fights wanting to marry Darcy for too long in the story. When father Bennet dies, if not for Darcy she would have had to marry Collins, who works for Darcy since he owns Rosings or the family would be in the hedgerows. The angst about not having a choice was well deserved but went on too long. Made her seem unreasonable and/or ungrateful.
Another problem was Jane marries Bingley after Caroline has been just awful. Nothing is ever done to keep her from making Jane’s life miserable when she marries Bingley so Jane will probably never be happy or even have children in a loving home.
November 5, 2021
What If Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bennet Became Friends?
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
THE PREMISE: It seems like everyone in Fitzwilliam Darcy’s life is trying to bend him to their will, and the one place where he can find some solace (and stimulating conversation) is in Mr. Bennet’s library. While enjoying the company of his frequently visiting new friend, Mr. Bennet decides to enlist Mr. Darcy’s aide in protecting his family’s security. But as it turns out Mr. Bennet has also slyly coerced Mr. Darcy into following his will…
MY THOUGHTS:
What an inventive premise and relationship to explore! Observing two such characters form a friendship and bond over their similar interests (such as: reading, intellectual conversations, chess) and personality traits (with their reserved natures and preference for small and quiet interactions) was delightful to witness in this variation. I enjoyed how Ms. Ashton developed the evolution of this relationship. And I enjoyed seeing it grow deeper as Mr. Darcy grew to care for the Bennets and feel concern over his new friend, and Mr. Bennet came to rely on, confide in, and seek assistance from his young friend. The sincere regard, mutual respect, and almost surrogate-like-father-son relationship between these two was beautifully conveyed in this story.
Another relationship that was interesting to explore and see develop was that of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. Elizabeth takes more umbrage with Mr. Darcy’s supplanting her place in her father’s library than she does any insulting comment or rude demeanor. I enjoyed seeing this twist and observing how it changed the course of their relationship. Elizabeth is both envious and suspicious of Mr. Darcy, and that is only exacerbated when she learns all the things Mr. Bennet has been keeping from her. SLIGHT SPOILER ALERT: I also enjoyed seeing Darcy and Elizabeth work through a situation where their hands are tied – both can be so obstinate and intensely dislike being told what to do. But Mr. Bennet is a crafty fellow and saw the writing on the wall well before they did. What would have happened if he didn’t force their hands???
Speaking of relations forcing hands…the Fitzwilliams in this story… They are a quite selfish and disagreeable bunch and I enjoyed the tension and drama they caused. However, Colonel Fitzwilliam was a little bit of a neutral enigma in this story. It was hard to understand his stance since he seemed to be both a trusted friend to Mr. Darcy and a supporter of his family’s machinations. Since the Fitzwilliams were so reprehensible in this story, I wouldn’t have minded seeing a little more consequences paid for their actions. In addition, there was an avenue or two that I thought would be interesting to see traversed in this tale, such as Darcy battling the ton’s disapproval for his supposed scandalous propensities since that was a terrific hook introduced in the Prologue.
Some Natural Importance is an inventive and engrossing Pride and Prejudice variation full of familial duty, unexpected deceptions, and the importance of following your own desires. I thoroughly admired and appreciated the new relationships forged in this tale and the ever-praiseworthy and honorable actions of our beloved Mr. Darcy. I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
THE PREMISE: It seems like everyone in Fitzwilliam Darcy’s life is trying to bend him to their will, and the one place where he can find some solace (and stimulating conversation) is in Mr. Bennet’s library. While enjoying the company of his frequently visiting new friend, Mr. Bennet decides to enlist Mr. Darcy’s aide in protecting his family’s security. But as it turns out Mr. Bennet has also slyly coerced Mr. Darcy into following his will…
MY THOUGHTS:
What an inventive premise and relationship to explore! Observing two such characters form a friendship and bond over their similar interests (such as: reading, intellectual conversations, chess) and personality traits (with their reserved natures and preference for small and quiet interactions) was delightful to witness in this variation. I enjoyed how Ms. Ashton developed the evolution of this relationship. And I enjoyed seeing it grow deeper as Mr. Darcy grew to care for the Bennets and feel concern over his new friend, and Mr. Bennet came to rely on, confide in, and seek assistance from his young friend. The sincere regard, mutual respect, and almost surrogate-like-father-son relationship between these two was beautifully conveyed in this story.
Another relationship that was interesting to explore and see develop was that of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. Elizabeth takes more umbrage with Mr. Darcy’s supplanting her place in her father’s library than she does any insulting comment or rude demeanor. I enjoyed seeing this twist and observing how it changed the course of their relationship. Elizabeth is both envious and suspicious of Mr. Darcy, and that is only exacerbated when she learns all the things Mr. Bennet has been keeping from her. SLIGHT SPOILER ALERT: I also enjoyed seeing Darcy and Elizabeth work through a situation where their hands are tied – both can be so obstinate and intensely dislike being told what to do. But Mr. Bennet is a crafty fellow and saw the writing on the wall well before they did. What would have happened if he didn’t force their hands???
Speaking of relations forcing hands…the Fitzwilliams in this story… They are a quite selfish and disagreeable bunch and I enjoyed the tension and drama they caused. However, Colonel Fitzwilliam was a little bit of a neutral enigma in this story. It was hard to understand his stance since he seemed to be both a trusted friend to Mr. Darcy and a supporter of his family’s machinations. Since the Fitzwilliams were so reprehensible in this story, I wouldn’t have minded seeing a little more consequences paid for their actions. In addition, there was an avenue or two that I thought would be interesting to see traversed in this tale, such as Darcy battling the ton’s disapproval for his supposed scandalous propensities since that was a terrific hook introduced in the Prologue.
Some Natural Importance is an inventive and engrossing Pride and Prejudice variation full of familial duty, unexpected deceptions, and the importance of following your own desires. I thoroughly admired and appreciated the new relationships forged in this tale and the ever-praiseworthy and honorable actions of our beloved Mr. Darcy. I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
June 14, 2021
3.5 rounded up. There’s not too many stories where Mr. Bennet shows much interest in society, but here, a mutual aversion to it forms a steady friendship between Mr. Bennet & Darcy. They bond over chess, books and estate management. Elizabeth resents Darcy for infringing on her own relationship with her father while he finds himself drawn to her.
This was a good story that kept my interest and was unique and there were lots of things I enjoyed and a few things I didn’t. I didn’t feel a lot of chemistry between D&E and I didn’t feel Darcy’s family situation was fleshed out. I didn’t understand Darcy’s relationship with his sister or why he left her in the care of those he didn’t trust or even like and it wasn’t really explained. Some of his family’s behavior was over the top without adequate justification for their extreme position. I kept waiting for some aspect to be revealed of the story with the countess and her daughter, but there never really was any story.
Overall, the good outweighed the bad and I I enjoyed it very much.
This was a good story that kept my interest and was unique and there were lots of things I enjoyed and a few things I didn’t. I didn’t feel a lot of chemistry between D&E and I didn’t feel Darcy’s family situation was fleshed out. I didn’t understand Darcy’s relationship with his sister or why he left her in the care of those he didn’t trust or even like and it wasn’t really explained. Some of his family’s behavior was over the top without adequate justification for their extreme position. I kept waiting for some aspect to be revealed of the story with the countess and her daughter, but there never really was any story.
Overall, the good outweighed the bad and I I enjoyed it very much.
May 17, 2021
I have loved the story and I find Mr. Bennet quite cheeky with what he does but he was able to see what they could not see.
Darcy is a widow, her late wife née Anne de Bourgh died after birth child and a weak health. However, there is so much more to this story that if you have not read it in another review, I highly recommend you to read the book.
Darcy's Fitzwilliam family wants him to marry his cousin by marriage and Darcy keeps saying that he had enough of duty to his family when it came to marriage (the family is quite bad). What Darcy does not expect is to be very intrigued with the second daughter of a country gentleman.
Moreover, he does not expect this gentleman to "manipulate" him. Mr Bennet does actually manipulate him but he actually wishes the best for those he cares, even if he starts a tiny bit too late.
Elizabeth is oblivious to her father's machinations but she is annoyed with this new acquaintance who has removed her from her father's side in his library.
It is difficult to tell the story without spoilers but I have really enjoyed it.
Colonel Fitzwilliam is a bit difficult to understand because he supports Darcy but then he joins his father and stepmother on the marriage part.
Caroline Bingley, wow! Lady, you lost it! Hopefully, Charles Bingley is good.
Spolier alert: there is a happy ending :)
It is very good to read Darcy's and Elizabeth's tug-of-war when they pretend not to care. :D
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Darcy is a widow, her late wife née Anne de Bourgh died after birth child and a weak health. However, there is so much more to this story that if you have not read it in another review, I highly recommend you to read the book.
Darcy's Fitzwilliam family wants him to marry his cousin by marriage and Darcy keeps saying that he had enough of duty to his family when it came to marriage (the family is quite bad). What Darcy does not expect is to be very intrigued with the second daughter of a country gentleman.
Moreover, he does not expect this gentleman to "manipulate" him. Mr Bennet does actually manipulate him but he actually wishes the best for those he cares, even if he starts a tiny bit too late.
Elizabeth is oblivious to her father's machinations but she is annoyed with this new acquaintance who has removed her from her father's side in his library.
It is difficult to tell the story without spoilers but I have really enjoyed it.
Colonel Fitzwilliam is a bit difficult to understand because he supports Darcy but then he joins his father and stepmother on the marriage part.
Caroline Bingley, wow! Lady, you lost it! Hopefully, Charles Bingley is good.
Spolier alert: there is a happy ending :)
It is very good to read Darcy's and Elizabeth's tug-of-war when they pretend not to care. :D
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2021
Darcy has married once for family duty and obligation to his cousin Anne. After her passing, be refuses to go down this path again. When his family begins to pressure him into marrying another cousin of his, he “escapes” away by joining Bingley in Hertfordshire to offer advice in managing Netherfield. He befriends Mr. Bennet and shortly after realizes that Mr. Bennets health is declining and may be dying. As their friendship strengthens, Darcy is thrown in Elizabeth’s way many times and begins to admire her. When Mr. Bennet comes to realize his death may be approaching sooner than later, he makes a dying wish for Darcy to marry his daughter based on his observations that they would suit each other well and he can see that they could love each other. But how will this turn out? Will Darcy agree? Will Elizabeth? What could stand in their way?
It’s an interesting story and fairly well written, and though it had many parts that I thoroughly enjoyed it also had parts that had me annoyed or bored at times :/
-
- Elizabeth was too irrational and annoying in the beginning. Im cannon, she does not believe that Wickham is a liar as the source to refute this were the Bingley’s. She says in the original P&P: "I have not a doubt of Mr. Bingley's sincerity," said Elizabeth warmly; "but you must excuse my not being convinced by assurances only. Mr. Bingley's defense of his friend was a very able one, I dare say; but since he is unacquainted with several parts of the story, and has learnt the rest from that friend himself, I shall venture to still think of both gentlemen as I did before."
But in this P&P variation, her sources were better known. For her to not believe information/evidence given to her by her own father? Best friend Charlotte? People she knows and trusts?? Luckily, her character improves and she becomes the Lizzy we all love and admire!! So this annoying and irrational Lizzy is very short lived - don’t let it discourage you.
- Sometimes the reflections were too lengthy and repetitive. So much so that I got bored and began to skip ahead a bit just to get past it.
- did not like Richard’s role. .
- Loved Bingley’s character and the strength of his friendship with Darcy. Wish this was played out more in this book.
It’s an interesting story and fairly well written, and though it had many parts that I thoroughly enjoyed it also had parts that had me annoyed or bored at times :/
-
- Elizabeth was too irrational and annoying in the beginning. Im cannon, she does not believe that Wickham is a liar as the source to refute this were the Bingley’s. She says in the original P&P: "I have not a doubt of Mr. Bingley's sincerity," said Elizabeth warmly; "but you must excuse my not being convinced by assurances only. Mr. Bingley's defense of his friend was a very able one, I dare say; but since he is unacquainted with several parts of the story, and has learnt the rest from that friend himself, I shall venture to still think of both gentlemen as I did before."
But in this P&P variation, her sources were better known. For her to not believe information/evidence given to her by her own father? Best friend Charlotte? People she knows and trusts?? Luckily, her character improves and she becomes the Lizzy we all love and admire!! So this annoying and irrational Lizzy is very short lived - don’t let it discourage you.
- Sometimes the reflections were too lengthy and repetitive. So much so that I got bored and began to skip ahead a bit just to get past it.
- did not like Richard’s role. .
- Loved Bingley’s character and the strength of his friendship with Darcy. Wish this was played out more in this book.
September 11, 2021
This was a unique P&P variation, and I know that word 'unique' is overused but 'Some Natural Importance' deserves that description. I loved it. I loved this Darcy, and I even loved in a different way, Mr. Bennet. In this story Mr. Bennet has already figured out the potential harm of Mr. Collins visiting Longborn again with the intention of meeting, this time, Jane and Elizabeth. So by the time Darcy visits the neighborhood Mr. B. has already tried putting off Mr. Collins's visit but the shark is circling. He wants none of his daughters to marry that weasel, and as his friendship with Darcy evolves he believes he has a way to prevent Collins from taking one of his daughters as wife, but also a way of keeping a piece of property purchased outside the entail solely for his wife and daughters' benefit. If Collins married one of the girls, the property would become his, entail or no entail.
The villains in this story are rather scummier and rattier than usual, including a new character. And yet some fair amount of damage and angst happened because of what I would describe as 'loose lips sink ships.' Everyone from the unthinking to the innocent to the deliberate, kept talking about things they either had no idea would cause trouble for Darcy, or they deliberately provoked the trouble with sly bits of info dropped in the unsure ears of Elizabeth. As stated in other reviews Colonel Fitzwilliam in this book was no friend to Darcy. I still don't understand his reasoning for falling in with his relatives in insisting Davy marry his step-sister. He comes off as being rather devious (I hated that!) and jealous which I also hated.
Even though the Darcy and Lizzy story comes together differently it is utterly romantic. Darcy is so noble in this one. And Elizabeth's slower path to admitting her admiration, reliance on his character, and finally love for Darcy had just the right amount of hesitation and conflicting thoughts.
I understand we have Amy D 'Orazio to thank for urging her Quills and Quartos co-founder to finishing this story and bringing it out for us to enjoy. Thank you Amy!
I loved this, I'll be rereading it, I'm eager for the audio version to come out and I highly recommend this.
The villains in this story are rather scummier and rattier than usual, including a new character. And yet some fair amount of damage and angst happened because of what I would describe as 'loose lips sink ships.' Everyone from the unthinking to the innocent to the deliberate, kept talking about things they either had no idea would cause trouble for Darcy, or they deliberately provoked the trouble with sly bits of info dropped in the unsure ears of Elizabeth. As stated in other reviews Colonel Fitzwilliam in this book was no friend to Darcy. I still don't understand his reasoning for falling in with his relatives in insisting Davy marry his step-sister. He comes off as being rather devious (I hated that!) and jealous which I also hated.
Even though the Darcy and Lizzy story comes together differently it is utterly romantic. Darcy is so noble in this one. And Elizabeth's slower path to admitting her admiration, reliance on his character, and finally love for Darcy had just the right amount of hesitation and conflicting thoughts.
I understand we have Amy D 'Orazio to thank for urging her Quills and Quartos co-founder to finishing this story and bringing it out for us to enjoy. Thank you Amy!
I loved this, I'll be rereading it, I'm eager for the audio version to come out and I highly recommend this.
May 12, 2021
Fitzwilliam Darcy has sacrificed his happiness over and over for the sake of his family name and he is tired. He takes the opportunity to help his friend Charles Bingely with his rented estate and meets the neighbors. He strikes up an unlikely friendship with the rather reclusive man of the house - Mr Bennet. In doing so, he also meets and spends time with his second oldest daughter, Elizabeth.
Mr Bennet, realizing he is not long for the world, asks Darcy's help in putting his affairs in order to protect his family. Included in the documentation is a bit of a surprise. The bulk of the story allows Darcy and Elizabeth to defeat their pride, prejudices, misunderstandings, and over excited relatives on their way to happily ever after.
Mr Bennet, realizing he is not long for the world, asks Darcy's help in putting his affairs in order to protect his family. Included in the documentation is a bit of a surprise. The bulk of the story allows Darcy and Elizabeth to defeat their pride, prejudices, misunderstandings, and over excited relatives on their way to happily ever after.
January 22, 2022
When Mr. Darcy visits Netherfield Park and the Bingleys, he is a widower faced with many, many people wishing to recommend a new bride. His marriage to Anne was to save the family’s and Anne’s reputations, and was not a marriage of love, but of duty. He is once again pursued by the young women of the ton, especially Caroline Bingley. But his family also is pressuring him to marry the Earl of Matlocks stepdaughter Cecelia. Surprisingly, Darcy finds an escape playing chess with Mr. Bennet in the Longbourn book room. The seat at the chess table, and the conversations with Mr. Bennet are, however, felt by Elizabeth to her property, and she is greatly displeased that he seems not to notice. Darcy is oblivious, and finds himself drawn to Elizabeth’s intelligence and fine eyes.
Unknown to both of them, Mr. Bennet is seriously ill. He has taken some small actions to assist his family after he is gone, but he needs some assistance to carry out his plans. His new friend and chess partner may be just the person he needs. And, possibly something even more important for his family; a protector. Darcy and Elizabeth don’t learn of his true scheme until it is really too late to do much about it. A marriage between them can solve so many of Mr. Bennet’s problems. But, will it create too many for them?
A lovely semi-forced marriage scenario. Low angst. David Pickering does a wonderful job in the narration.
Unknown to both of them, Mr. Bennet is seriously ill. He has taken some small actions to assist his family after he is gone, but he needs some assistance to carry out his plans. His new friend and chess partner may be just the person he needs. And, possibly something even more important for his family; a protector. Darcy and Elizabeth don’t learn of his true scheme until it is really too late to do much about it. A marriage between them can solve so many of Mr. Bennet’s problems. But, will it create too many for them?
A lovely semi-forced marriage scenario. Low angst. David Pickering does a wonderful job in the narration.
July 14, 2024
Just dropped in price.
Some Natural Importance: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
by Jan Ashton
£0.99 was £5.08
Some Natural Importance: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
by Jan Ashton
£0.99 was £5.08
May 23, 2021
Entertaining
I'm a Jan Ashton fan, and know that her books are always a joy to read and will have a worthy and imaginative story told by a talented storyteller. As the book summary indicates, Darcy is a widower, having married Anne DeBourgh in order to save her reputation and offer her protection before she dies from the "French disease" given to her by an unscrupulous doctor. Now, years later, his Fitzwilliam relatives, Lord and Lady Matlock, are pressuring Darcy to marry their daughter, his cousin Cecelia. Darcy has no intention of marrying again for family duty, so he escapes London and his family, and visits Charles Bingley at Netherfield in Hertfordshire. There he meets the Bennett family.
Mr Bennett is gravely ill, but hasn't told his family. He finds a worthy chess partner in Darcy, and the two develop a close friendship that eventually leads to Darcy assisting him in some business matters before he dies. At the same time, Darcy is finding himself drawn to Elizabeth, but she's been told some pretty awful things about Darcy by the sinister Wickham. After the death of Mr Bennett, Elizabeth discovers that her father has been doing some matchmaking in his final days, and she is expected to marry Darcy in order to ensure her family's security. She kind of admires Darcy, but isn't really sure about him and his motivations.
Although I enjoyed this book a lot, about 60 percent of it was very depressing. The story behind Lady Catherine and Anne DeBourgh, the cold and calculating Fitzwilliams, even Georgiana and Richard, are all like millstones around the neck of Darcy, bringing him despair and hopelessness. Georgiana is being negatively influenced by the Matlocks, and Richard seems incapable of supporting Darcy against the machinations of his family. Usually you can count on those two to be a source of sanity for Darcy, but not this time. Then there's Elizabeth, her jealousy of her father's friendship with Darcy, her deep melancholy over his death, and then her rage at being manipulated when she finds out her father's wishes for her marriage. About halfway through the book I wasn't sure I could take too much more negativity.
The character of Lady Matlock I found to be too over-the-top in her determination to have Darcy for her daughter. Darcy couldn't have been more clear in his declaration that he absolutely would not marry his cousin, yet she continued to pursue him as if she hadn't heard a word he said. Why? It made little sense except to add an ocean of angst that really wasn't needed.
There was a lot of repetition of the very emotionally charged dilemmas going through the minds of Elizabeth and Darcy, Elizabeth's questioning of Darcy's motivations and feelings, and her anger with her father, Darcy's uncertainty about his path forward, both for Mr Bennett and for Elizabeth. The same thoughts were hashed out again and again, and I felt some of it could have been edited out.
The usual villains are present, except for Lady Catherine, and they're as awful as ever. Add to the mix Lady Matlock, and you've got a group of bad guys that would squash lesser mortals than ODC. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
I'm a Jan Ashton fan, and know that her books are always a joy to read and will have a worthy and imaginative story told by a talented storyteller. As the book summary indicates, Darcy is a widower, having married Anne DeBourgh in order to save her reputation and offer her protection before she dies from the "French disease" given to her by an unscrupulous doctor. Now, years later, his Fitzwilliam relatives, Lord and Lady Matlock, are pressuring Darcy to marry their daughter, his cousin Cecelia. Darcy has no intention of marrying again for family duty, so he escapes London and his family, and visits Charles Bingley at Netherfield in Hertfordshire. There he meets the Bennett family.
Mr Bennett is gravely ill, but hasn't told his family. He finds a worthy chess partner in Darcy, and the two develop a close friendship that eventually leads to Darcy assisting him in some business matters before he dies. At the same time, Darcy is finding himself drawn to Elizabeth, but she's been told some pretty awful things about Darcy by the sinister Wickham. After the death of Mr Bennett, Elizabeth discovers that her father has been doing some matchmaking in his final days, and she is expected to marry Darcy in order to ensure her family's security. She kind of admires Darcy, but isn't really sure about him and his motivations.
Although I enjoyed this book a lot, about 60 percent of it was very depressing. The story behind Lady Catherine and Anne DeBourgh, the cold and calculating Fitzwilliams, even Georgiana and Richard, are all like millstones around the neck of Darcy, bringing him despair and hopelessness. Georgiana is being negatively influenced by the Matlocks, and Richard seems incapable of supporting Darcy against the machinations of his family. Usually you can count on those two to be a source of sanity for Darcy, but not this time. Then there's Elizabeth, her jealousy of her father's friendship with Darcy, her deep melancholy over his death, and then her rage at being manipulated when she finds out her father's wishes for her marriage. About halfway through the book I wasn't sure I could take too much more negativity.
The character of Lady Matlock I found to be too over-the-top in her determination to have Darcy for her daughter. Darcy couldn't have been more clear in his declaration that he absolutely would not marry his cousin, yet she continued to pursue him as if she hadn't heard a word he said. Why? It made little sense except to add an ocean of angst that really wasn't needed.
There was a lot of repetition of the very emotionally charged dilemmas going through the minds of Elizabeth and Darcy, Elizabeth's questioning of Darcy's motivations and feelings, and her anger with her father, Darcy's uncertainty about his path forward, both for Mr Bennett and for Elizabeth. The same thoughts were hashed out again and again, and I felt some of it could have been edited out.
The usual villains are present, except for Lady Catherine, and they're as awful as ever. Add to the mix Lady Matlock, and you've got a group of bad guys that would squash lesser mortals than ODC. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
May 22, 2022
4,5 rounded up to 5
Review Published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Some Natural Importance starts out with a very interesting premise, Mr. Bennet, who is very ill at the beginning of the book, forms a very close friendship with Mr. Darcy! But if you think that would make our hero closer to Elizabeth, you couldn’t be more wrong. With Mr. Darcy constantly in her father’s company, and replacing her role as his biggest companion, Elizabeth starts to feel jealous of Mr. Darcy and resent his presence. Her jealousy is the antagonist in the beginning of the story, but as time progresses, Elizabeth starts feeling for Mr. Darcy what he felt for her all along: a huge attraction and curiosity towards someone who is intriguing and appealing.
I found the voice of Some Natural Importance very interesting, as we are mainly privy to the male’s point of view and that is something I’ve come to realize Jan Ashton is an expert at. All the scenes and dialogues with male characters are believable and give us a deep knowledge about these characters that is not common to see in JAFF books. It is almost as if the reader is transported into a forbidden world that takes place behind closed studio doors while gentleman smoke cigars and discuss business. We are often forced to remain in the parlor with the ladies, so I always love it when books give me the opportunity to see the gentlemen in their natural habitat. One of the biggest surprises for me in this Some Natural Importance was Mr. Hurst’s character, and I have only gained a different perspective of him because of the angle Ms. Ashton used in this book. I never thought I would consider his character interesting, but I did, and that is all because of the behind the scenes we see him at with Mr. Darcy.
Mr. Bennet’s arc was beautiful and emotive, and it was my favorite aspect of the book. I loved to see him become a father to Mr. Darcy and to come up with a plan that ensured his family’s happiness. He was true to himself, still sarcastic and reserved, but also a caring father who was able to see way before everyone else what would constitute the happiness of his favorite daughter and the son he wished he could have had. He was annoying at times, and I wanted to shake him and make him talk to Elizabeth about everything that was going on in his head, but I did come to love him and even cried over him.
I also loved the way this premise affected Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy’s love story; I believe the author took them into a path that is not often explored but that allowed strong feelings to be built between them.
While I loved navigating through this story with these characters, I did feel many dialogues could have been removed as they didn’t add much to the story, especially the ones where Mr. Darcy’s odious family members were present, as they became somewhat repetitive in my perspective.
Overall, I loved listening to the audiobook of Some Natural Importance, it is a story that presents readers with new and meaningful relationships, that evokes feelings of trust and hope and I highly recommend it.
Review Published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Some Natural Importance starts out with a very interesting premise, Mr. Bennet, who is very ill at the beginning of the book, forms a very close friendship with Mr. Darcy! But if you think that would make our hero closer to Elizabeth, you couldn’t be more wrong. With Mr. Darcy constantly in her father’s company, and replacing her role as his biggest companion, Elizabeth starts to feel jealous of Mr. Darcy and resent his presence. Her jealousy is the antagonist in the beginning of the story, but as time progresses, Elizabeth starts feeling for Mr. Darcy what he felt for her all along: a huge attraction and curiosity towards someone who is intriguing and appealing.
I found the voice of Some Natural Importance very interesting, as we are mainly privy to the male’s point of view and that is something I’ve come to realize Jan Ashton is an expert at. All the scenes and dialogues with male characters are believable and give us a deep knowledge about these characters that is not common to see in JAFF books. It is almost as if the reader is transported into a forbidden world that takes place behind closed studio doors while gentleman smoke cigars and discuss business. We are often forced to remain in the parlor with the ladies, so I always love it when books give me the opportunity to see the gentlemen in their natural habitat. One of the biggest surprises for me in this Some Natural Importance was Mr. Hurst’s character, and I have only gained a different perspective of him because of the angle Ms. Ashton used in this book. I never thought I would consider his character interesting, but I did, and that is all because of the behind the scenes we see him at with Mr. Darcy.
Mr. Bennet’s arc was beautiful and emotive, and it was my favorite aspect of the book. I loved to see him become a father to Mr. Darcy and to come up with a plan that ensured his family’s happiness. He was true to himself, still sarcastic and reserved, but also a caring father who was able to see way before everyone else what would constitute the happiness of his favorite daughter and the son he wished he could have had. He was annoying at times, and I wanted to shake him and make him talk to Elizabeth about everything that was going on in his head, but I did come to love him and even cried over him.
I also loved the way this premise affected Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy’s love story; I believe the author took them into a path that is not often explored but that allowed strong feelings to be built between them.
While I loved navigating through this story with these characters, I did feel many dialogues could have been removed as they didn’t add much to the story, especially the ones where Mr. Darcy’s odious family members were present, as they became somewhat repetitive in my perspective.
Overall, I loved listening to the audiobook of Some Natural Importance, it is a story that presents readers with new and meaningful relationships, that evokes feelings of trust and hope and I highly recommend it.
May 12, 2021
Wow! This book is amazing! It is moving, thought-provoking, heartfelt, and so much more! Whenever I picked up "Some Natural Importance", I was whisked back in time to the Regency Era, and went on an emotional journey with this unique "Pride and Prejudice" variation.
This is the first book I have read by Jan Ashton, and I can't wait to read more! Her writing style, storytelling, and character development is spectacular! Her love and passion for Jane Austen, as well as Jane Austen's original novel is quite clear, and Ms. Ashton brilliantly weaves characters from the original novel with those of her own creation. I can only imagine the amount of research Ms. Ashton must have done, as this book feels so authentic to the era it is set in.
This variation explores many possibilities of what might have occurred that differ from the original book. What if Mr. Darcy had married Anne, his cousin, as part of an arranged marriage, and was now widowed? What if Mr. Darcy befriends Mr. Bennet before falling in love with Elizabeth? What if Mr. Bennet knows he is sadly dying, and wishes for Darcy to marry Elizabeth as part of an arranged marriage? There is so much depth to this novel, and so much more than I have mentioned here, and I do not want to spoil anything in this review. It is thought-provoking, and the friendship between Darcy and Mr. Bennett is so unique. I will simply say, you must read this book!
If you enjoy Jane Austen variations, I highly recommend this book! It had me turning the pages into the early hours of the morning to see what would happen next, and I held my breath quite a few times. I can't wait to see what Ms. Ashton writes next.
Thank you so much to Quills & Quartos Publishing for the ARC of this book, it is incredible! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This is the first book I have read by Jan Ashton, and I can't wait to read more! Her writing style, storytelling, and character development is spectacular! Her love and passion for Jane Austen, as well as Jane Austen's original novel is quite clear, and Ms. Ashton brilliantly weaves characters from the original novel with those of her own creation. I can only imagine the amount of research Ms. Ashton must have done, as this book feels so authentic to the era it is set in.
This variation explores many possibilities of what might have occurred that differ from the original book. What if Mr. Darcy had married Anne, his cousin, as part of an arranged marriage, and was now widowed? What if Mr. Darcy befriends Mr. Bennet before falling in love with Elizabeth? What if Mr. Bennet knows he is sadly dying, and wishes for Darcy to marry Elizabeth as part of an arranged marriage? There is so much depth to this novel, and so much more than I have mentioned here, and I do not want to spoil anything in this review. It is thought-provoking, and the friendship between Darcy and Mr. Bennett is so unique. I will simply say, you must read this book!
If you enjoy Jane Austen variations, I highly recommend this book! It had me turning the pages into the early hours of the morning to see what would happen next, and I held my breath quite a few times. I can't wait to see what Ms. Ashton writes next.
Thank you so much to Quills & Quartos Publishing for the ARC of this book, it is incredible! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
May 14, 2021
4.5 Good novel, well written, logically structured, heartwarming. I was happy to read it, but I will not reread it.
April 14, 2022
A very enjoyable and sympathetic variation.
Darcy is a gentler version of himself, more willing to see good in those outside his family circle. Elizabeth is feisty and confused in equal measures. Mr Bennet is such a cheeky chap and displays remarkable cunning and audacity.
Darcy is a gentler version of himself, more willing to see good in those outside his family circle. Elizabeth is feisty and confused in equal measures. Mr Bennet is such a cheeky chap and displays remarkable cunning and audacity.
May 16, 2021
Importance Being Key
Gripping from the first page, Elizabeth's worst rival is none other than Fitzwilliam Darcy. And as petulant as she, he equals her with his officiousness. The truthful back story and liberally accepted gossip that spreads throughout London and into Meryton makes Darcy seem a selfish and self-serving guest in Mr Bennett's book room where he usurps Elizabeth's treasured perch. And let's not forget the treasure far greater than rubies! If you love well written, unpredictable JAFF, you cannot find a better selection this season than this one. Full Five Stars, and then some.
Gripping from the first page, Elizabeth's worst rival is none other than Fitzwilliam Darcy. And as petulant as she, he equals her with his officiousness. The truthful back story and liberally accepted gossip that spreads throughout London and into Meryton makes Darcy seem a selfish and self-serving guest in Mr Bennett's book room where he usurps Elizabeth's treasured perch. And let's not forget the treasure far greater than rubies! If you love well written, unpredictable JAFF, you cannot find a better selection this season than this one. Full Five Stars, and then some.
October 9, 2022
Elizabeth was irritatingly stupid and irrational in the first half of the book, but then became far more recognisable as the character we know. Good story, though the matchmaking plans of Mr Bennet made little sense.
May 13, 2021
I went into this book a little apprehensive because Darcy had been married before but it was marriage to prevent a scandal and she died within a year or so so it's fine. His family kept trying to push him to marry another cousin but thankfully Darcy held firm in his refusal. I really didn't like Darcy's family at all in this story as they were all trying to push him towards his cousin Cecelia and they were all for badmouthing Elizabeth and the Bennet's. Even Colonel Fitzwilliam joined in until he learned the truth. Oh yeah, they also badmouthed Darcy for refusing his cousin and for his first marriage to Anne.
I really loved how Darcy and Mr. Bennet got along and that they spent long hours together playing chess. Darcy took over Lizzy's spot in Bennet's study and she held a grudge over that. But I'm glad everything got settled between Lizzy and Darcy with the help of a meddlesome Mr. Bennet.
This novel is very good and I have enjoyed Jan Ashton's books in the past and I'm sure I will continue to enjoy them in the future. I recommend this book if you enjoy a slow burn/arranged marriage romance featuring Darcy and Lizzy.
Rating: 4 1/2
I really loved how Darcy and Mr. Bennet got along and that they spent long hours together playing chess. Darcy took over Lizzy's spot in Bennet's study and she held a grudge over that. But I'm glad everything got settled between Lizzy and Darcy with the help of a meddlesome Mr. Bennet.
This novel is very good and I have enjoyed Jan Ashton's books in the past and I'm sure I will continue to enjoy them in the future. I recommend this book if you enjoy a slow burn/arranged marriage romance featuring Darcy and Lizzy.
Rating: 4 1/2
August 7, 2021
4.5 rounded up
August 14, 2021
I loved this one. A very good variation.
June 15, 2022
Angst free, overly long, & honestly a little boring.
February 29, 2024
2024: partially re-read and didn’t find it as great as I remembered. Too wordy
2021: I really enjoyed reading this book, although I didn’t have high expectations given that I found two of Jan Ashton’s other stories too wordy. Maybe I was to hasty in my judgment ... I will try and re read A Searing Acquaintance.
2021: I really enjoyed reading this book, although I didn’t have high expectations given that I found two of Jan Ashton’s other stories too wordy. Maybe I was to hasty in my judgment ... I will try and re read A Searing Acquaintance.
June 20, 2021
Darcy Swoony… Elizabeth, Meh...
I've been a Jane Austen fanfiction enthusiast for many years. I had read another book by this author previously, Mendacity and Mourning, and thought it exceptionally well done. This is another very unusual spin on the classic, beloved Pride and Prejudice. The author did a fantastic job weaving in words or ideas from the original in sometimes wildly fun ways—like some words from the infamous Hunsford proposal happening in a heated scene between Darcy and his cousin the colonel.
Widowed Darcy—he had a brief marriage of honor and duty to his cousin Anne—and Bingley are in Hertfordshire well before the infamous assembly, and Darcy quickly befriends Mr. Bennet. They are both learned men who enjoy chess and books. Elizabeth put me off in the beginning and even a few times later in the book. As Mr. Bennet might have said, she became a bit missish as being displaced in her father's book room by this somewhat rude but handsome gentleman. Given that she had gotten to know Mr. Darcy relatively well before Wickham showed up, it seems implausible that she would hang on Wickham's every word as if it were gospel—even if she did feel a bit put out by Darcy. That some of the false beliefs planted by Wickham persisted for as long as they did seemed crazy to me. At certain points, I almost DNFed the book, but I persisted, and ultimately, I was glad I did.
What made the book, as often happens in Pride and Prejudice variations, was Darcy. The author did a good job showing how his feelings and thoughts towards Elizabeth evolved. It was natural, sweet, and at times, swoon-worthy. The author clearly showed his reactions to her as he fell more and more for her, even if he couldn’t quite believe them himself. I believe this is the author’s fifth JAFF novel, so I'm surprised she got a few Regency-era aspects wrong, like them not having envelopes back in that time. If you love a Pride and Prejudice variation with an excellent Colonel Fitzwilliam, you will most likely be disappointed in his portrayal here as he was not in Darcy's corner for most of the book. The rest of the Fitzwilliam side of the family is a real piece of work. By the way, the author loves to use big words and blocky narrative paragraphs, which can make the reading slow going at times. I have a fairly decent vocabulary as I am a voracious reader, and I do not think the author always used the big words appropriately. Other than these few issues, I ultimately enjoyed the book.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
I've been a Jane Austen fanfiction enthusiast for many years. I had read another book by this author previously, Mendacity and Mourning, and thought it exceptionally well done. This is another very unusual spin on the classic, beloved Pride and Prejudice. The author did a fantastic job weaving in words or ideas from the original in sometimes wildly fun ways—like some words from the infamous Hunsford proposal happening in a heated scene between Darcy and his cousin the colonel.
Widowed Darcy—he had a brief marriage of honor and duty to his cousin Anne—and Bingley are in Hertfordshire well before the infamous assembly, and Darcy quickly befriends Mr. Bennet. They are both learned men who enjoy chess and books. Elizabeth put me off in the beginning and even a few times later in the book. As Mr. Bennet might have said, she became a bit missish as being displaced in her father's book room by this somewhat rude but handsome gentleman. Given that she had gotten to know Mr. Darcy relatively well before Wickham showed up, it seems implausible that she would hang on Wickham's every word as if it were gospel—even if she did feel a bit put out by Darcy. That some of the false beliefs planted by Wickham persisted for as long as they did seemed crazy to me. At certain points, I almost DNFed the book, but I persisted, and ultimately, I was glad I did.
What made the book, as often happens in Pride and Prejudice variations, was Darcy. The author did a good job showing how his feelings and thoughts towards Elizabeth evolved. It was natural, sweet, and at times, swoon-worthy. The author clearly showed his reactions to her as he fell more and more for her, even if he couldn’t quite believe them himself. I believe this is the author’s fifth JAFF novel, so I'm surprised she got a few Regency-era aspects wrong, like them not having envelopes back in that time. If you love a Pride and Prejudice variation with an excellent Colonel Fitzwilliam, you will most likely be disappointed in his portrayal here as he was not in Darcy's corner for most of the book. The rest of the Fitzwilliam side of the family is a real piece of work. By the way, the author loves to use big words and blocky narrative paragraphs, which can make the reading slow going at times. I have a fairly decent vocabulary as I am a voracious reader, and I do not think the author always used the big words appropriately. Other than these few issues, I ultimately enjoyed the book.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
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