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Forgotten Betrothal: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Enlightenment dawned, sharp and painful in its glaring exactitude. He knew. From the moment she had uttered her true name, he had known that she was not free. So why was he here? Why did he still look at her in that way? Why could she see the adoration in his eyes and the torment in his features? Had he come to say goodbye? To leave her to this fate?
CONFUSED AND CHASTENED following her cruel rejection of Mr Darcy’s proposal, Elizabeth Bennet returns to her aunt’s home in Gracechurch Street. Unable to find solace while pondering her terrible misjudgment of his character, she is overwhelmed with guilt for how she treated the puzzling gentleman from Derbyshire. Fitzwilliam Darcy has retreated to his London home after being spurned by the lady he loves, and after serious reflection has come to the realisation that he never deserved Elizabeth’s good opinion.
A CHANCE ENCOUNTER WITH MR DARCY brings Elizabeth the opportunity to seek forgiveness, and possibly, a new start to their budding romance. But the introduction of a stranger into Elizabeth’s life threatens to reveal old family secrets that have the potential to truly unravel her world and all that she holds dear.
CONFUSED AND CHASTENED following her cruel rejection of Mr Darcy’s proposal, Elizabeth Bennet returns to her aunt’s home in Gracechurch Street. Unable to find solace while pondering her terrible misjudgment of his character, she is overwhelmed with guilt for how she treated the puzzling gentleman from Derbyshire. Fitzwilliam Darcy has retreated to his London home after being spurned by the lady he loves, and after serious reflection has come to the realisation that he never deserved Elizabeth’s good opinion.
A CHANCE ENCOUNTER WITH MR DARCY brings Elizabeth the opportunity to seek forgiveness, and possibly, a new start to their budding romance. But the introduction of a stranger into Elizabeth’s life threatens to reveal old family secrets that have the potential to truly unravel her world and all that she holds dear.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 12, 2021
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July 12, 2021
“Write what should not be forgotten.” –Isabel Allende
Rating: MA: due to discussions of an adult nature describing an attempted compromise [unsuccessful], sensual feelings, sexual tension, not graphic, madness/dementia. Angst Level: medium: trigger warnings due to death of a baby, and the kidnapping of another. 32-chapters + epilogue: Source: ARC via Booksprout [5-30-21] Trope: Not-a-Bennet: I love this trope. I have now read several and the authors have been really creative. Spoiler Alert: *** This review may contain SPOILERS ***
“Being a parent wasn’t just about bearing a child. It was about bearing witness to its life.” –Jodi Picoult, Handle with Care
I love the story trope where Elizabeth was in fact not a Bennet. Elizabeth had returned from Kent and was still in London. She was taking her usual walk in the park near her relations while contemplating Darcy’s letter and what transpired in Kent. This simple venture would change her life and the lives of many. A young man noticed her in the distance and received the shock of his life. He had his servant follow her to see where she lived. The young man went home and found the miniature portrait in his father’s study. The girl in the park was the spitting image of his mother at an earlier age. Could it be… could she be?
“Blood can help make family, but family often transcends blood.” –DaShanne Stokes
The best part of these NAB [Not-a-Bennet] stories has been the reaction of the other characters to the great reveal. Oh, Caroline… crow is not a savory dish on the best of days. Remember all those snippy, snotty words you threw at dear ‘Eliza?’ I bet you wish you had kept your mouth shut. LOL! I don’t think the author was harsh enough with that b-witch. However, Elizabeth and her new family did what only they could do in polite society. They ignored her. Dear Caro, can you feel those invitations drying up? Don’t even get me started on her spinless wimp of a brother. Darcy was shocked when he tried to confess his interference to Bingley. I enjoy a good discussion between those two when the scales fall off Darcy’s eyes and he sees the real character of Charles Bingley. My biggest shock was Jane’s reaction when she and Elizabeth discussed the clod. WAY-to-GO Jane. I love a strong Jane where she is not a dumb blonde [no offense to my blonde friends, you know I love you]. This Jane was smart and that scene was perfection. I don’t think the author let Bingley feel the full weight of that sting. Maybe it was just me. I seem to be terribly vicious toward the Bingley siblings. Sorry… well, not sorry.
Mr. Bennet: “Anyone who ever wondered how much they could love a child who did not spring from their own loins, know this: it is the same. The feeling of love is so profound, it’s incredible and surprising.” –Nia Vardalos, Instant Mom
From the moment Bennet held the babe Elizabeth, he knew he was in love. The day two distinguished gentlemen appeared at the front door of Longbourn, was the day that Bennet had always dreaded. A decision made nearly twenty years before was about to bring a heartache as he had never felt. It would also change the dynamics of the Bennet family and the popular opinion in Meryton toward him and his wife.
Darcy: “The most confused you will ever get is when you try to convince your heart and spirit of something your mind knows is a lie.” –Shannon L. Alder
Darcy House in London was a dismal place. Georgiana was still wallowing over her near-miss in Ramsgate. Her brother’s return from Kent was not much better. He was sequestered in his study and wasn’t eating or sleeping properly. His self-reflection on his sojourn into Kent had sent his emotions into a downward spiral. Where had he gone wrong? He had finally yielded to his months-long struggle against his growing affections for the bright-eyed miss from Hertfordshire and had finally dismissed the lie that he could not marry her. At last, he approached her at Hunsford with the offer of his hand. She, rather than receive his offer with gladness, which he had expected, had instead put paid to his address and threw it back in his face. She then questioned his honor, his hubris that he knew what was best for Bingley, and his cruel treatment of Wickham.
While poor Darcy wallowed in his PDHP [Post-Disastrous-Hunsford-Proposal] funk, Georgiana decided she had had enough. She sent word for Darcy’s cousin/brother Richard to report to their house ASAP. That happened way too many times. I don’t care for the trope where Darcy drowns his sorrows in a bottle to the point he passes out at his desk. Seriously? How does this guy manage Pemberley? Well, his numerous disappointment[s] crashed and burned on several levels in this story. As Darcy recovered from Elizabeth’s rejection and gained her forgiveness, he began to court her properly. All too soon, he learned of her elevation in society. Not long after that, was the discovery of a forgotten betrothal. Not his with Anne, but hers. Here we go again. Someone, hide the key to the liquor cabinet!
*** Spoiler *** The sensual tension between ODC [our-dear-couple] would peel the wallpaper. Darcy wanted Elizabeth… um… Lady Elizabeth. Lady Elizabeth wanted Darcy. Lord Matlock wanted what he wanted… an Earl’s daughter for his son and heir, the Viscount. Talk about your cradle betrothals and he had the paperwork to prove it. Lady Catherine had no say in this story. She didn’t have a clue what was happening in London and would have been seriously displeased.
What I liked: limited time with Mrs. Bennet, her silly daughters, Wickham, and Lady Catherine. We had a full play-list of characters as it was. We certainly didn’t need Lady Catherine throwing her weight around. Instead, we had her brother the Earl on tap for that. I loved the new characters Lord and Lady Tamworth and their son Lord Gray. Yeah, they were delightful. I highly recommend this delightful story.
Rating: MA: due to discussions of an adult nature describing an attempted compromise [unsuccessful], sensual feelings, sexual tension, not graphic, madness/dementia. Angst Level: medium: trigger warnings due to death of a baby, and the kidnapping of another. 32-chapters + epilogue: Source: ARC via Booksprout [5-30-21] Trope: Not-a-Bennet: I love this trope. I have now read several and the authors have been really creative. Spoiler Alert: *** This review may contain SPOILERS ***
“Being a parent wasn’t just about bearing a child. It was about bearing witness to its life.” –Jodi Picoult, Handle with Care
I love the story trope where Elizabeth was in fact not a Bennet. Elizabeth had returned from Kent and was still in London. She was taking her usual walk in the park near her relations while contemplating Darcy’s letter and what transpired in Kent. This simple venture would change her life and the lives of many. A young man noticed her in the distance and received the shock of his life. He had his servant follow her to see where she lived. The young man went home and found the miniature portrait in his father’s study. The girl in the park was the spitting image of his mother at an earlier age. Could it be… could she be?
“Blood can help make family, but family often transcends blood.” –DaShanne Stokes
The best part of these NAB [Not-a-Bennet] stories has been the reaction of the other characters to the great reveal. Oh, Caroline… crow is not a savory dish on the best of days. Remember all those snippy, snotty words you threw at dear ‘Eliza?’ I bet you wish you had kept your mouth shut. LOL! I don’t think the author was harsh enough with that b-witch. However, Elizabeth and her new family did what only they could do in polite society. They ignored her. Dear Caro, can you feel those invitations drying up? Don’t even get me started on her spinless wimp of a brother. Darcy was shocked when he tried to confess his interference to Bingley. I enjoy a good discussion between those two when the scales fall off Darcy’s eyes and he sees the real character of Charles Bingley. My biggest shock was Jane’s reaction when she and Elizabeth discussed the clod. WAY-to-GO Jane. I love a strong Jane where she is not a dumb blonde [no offense to my blonde friends, you know I love you]. This Jane was smart and that scene was perfection. I don’t think the author let Bingley feel the full weight of that sting. Maybe it was just me. I seem to be terribly vicious toward the Bingley siblings. Sorry… well, not sorry.
Mr. Bennet: “Anyone who ever wondered how much they could love a child who did not spring from their own loins, know this: it is the same. The feeling of love is so profound, it’s incredible and surprising.” –Nia Vardalos, Instant Mom
From the moment Bennet held the babe Elizabeth, he knew he was in love. The day two distinguished gentlemen appeared at the front door of Longbourn, was the day that Bennet had always dreaded. A decision made nearly twenty years before was about to bring a heartache as he had never felt. It would also change the dynamics of the Bennet family and the popular opinion in Meryton toward him and his wife.
Darcy: “The most confused you will ever get is when you try to convince your heart and spirit of something your mind knows is a lie.” –Shannon L. Alder
Darcy House in London was a dismal place. Georgiana was still wallowing over her near-miss in Ramsgate. Her brother’s return from Kent was not much better. He was sequestered in his study and wasn’t eating or sleeping properly. His self-reflection on his sojourn into Kent had sent his emotions into a downward spiral. Where had he gone wrong? He had finally yielded to his months-long struggle against his growing affections for the bright-eyed miss from Hertfordshire and had finally dismissed the lie that he could not marry her. At last, he approached her at Hunsford with the offer of his hand. She, rather than receive his offer with gladness, which he had expected, had instead put paid to his address and threw it back in his face. She then questioned his honor, his hubris that he knew what was best for Bingley, and his cruel treatment of Wickham.
While poor Darcy wallowed in his PDHP [Post-Disastrous-Hunsford-Proposal] funk, Georgiana decided she had had enough. She sent word for Darcy’s cousin/brother Richard to report to their house ASAP. That happened way too many times. I don’t care for the trope where Darcy drowns his sorrows in a bottle to the point he passes out at his desk. Seriously? How does this guy manage Pemberley? Well, his numerous disappointment[s] crashed and burned on several levels in this story. As Darcy recovered from Elizabeth’s rejection and gained her forgiveness, he began to court her properly. All too soon, he learned of her elevation in society. Not long after that, was the discovery of a forgotten betrothal. Not his with Anne, but hers. Here we go again. Someone, hide the key to the liquor cabinet!
*** Spoiler *** The sensual tension between ODC [our-dear-couple] would peel the wallpaper. Darcy wanted Elizabeth… um… Lady Elizabeth. Lady Elizabeth wanted Darcy. Lord Matlock wanted what he wanted… an Earl’s daughter for his son and heir, the Viscount. Talk about your cradle betrothals and he had the paperwork to prove it. Lady Catherine had no say in this story. She didn’t have a clue what was happening in London and would have been seriously displeased.
What I liked: limited time with Mrs. Bennet, her silly daughters, Wickham, and Lady Catherine. We had a full play-list of characters as it was. We certainly didn’t need Lady Catherine throwing her weight around. Instead, we had her brother the Earl on tap for that. I loved the new characters Lord and Lady Tamworth and their son Lord Gray. Yeah, they were delightful. I highly recommend this delightful story.
July 14, 2021
This Pride and Prejudice variation employs a trope many JAFF-readers are familiar with: Elizabeth Bennet is not really a Bennet. It's particularly well done here due to a lot of well-paced anticipation - the reader receives information characters lack and becomes eager for the cork to be removed from the bottle.
First of all, Elizabeth doesn't know she's adopted. She's in London with the Gardiners and her sister Jane after refusing Mr. Darcy's marriage proposal a week earlier in Kent, reading and re-reading his letter, and berating herself for misunderstanding him so completely. Her true brother, Lord Nicholas Grey, recognizes Elizabeth's uncanny resemblance to his mother when he sees her in the park and has a servant follow her to her uncle's home in Cheapside. He meets with Mr. Gardiner, armed with a portrait taken of the Countess of Tamworth when she was twenty, and relates that his sister, Lady Elizabeth Grey, disappeared from her crib as a baby. While Elizabeth's uncle doesn't know the entire story, he is aware that Mrs. Bennet had miscarried, the Bennets "found" Elizabeth soon after, and they had claimed her as their own child without disclosing her origin to anyone else.
Elizabeth reels from this revelation when it's shared with her, and immediately thereafter she encounters Mr. Darcy. The two are quick to beg each other's pardon for their terrible behavior at Hunsford, and he receives permission to call on her at her uncle's home. Elizabeth feels it's improper to tell him what has her so upset until Mr. Bennet has been advised and her true parentage is confirmed.
The betrothal provides another slow drip-drip of anticipation. Lady Elizabeth has an obscenely large dowry and her father, already fearful of fortune hunters when she was born, set his mind at ease by establishing a betrothal agreement between his daughter and the eldest son of his friend, the Earl of Matlock. Now that Lady Elizabeth has been recovered and Viscount Lisle is at the age where he should be married, Matlock is eager to see the two wed.
The points of view change frequently, each chapter moving to a different character, providing everyone's perspective on events as they unfold. As I said earlier, I found anticipating reactions and how things might play out once all was revealed made this fun to read. There's angst, but the tone is more light than melodramatic. It's well-written and well-edited, too. Content is clean.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
First of all, Elizabeth doesn't know she's adopted. She's in London with the Gardiners and her sister Jane after refusing Mr. Darcy's marriage proposal a week earlier in Kent, reading and re-reading his letter, and berating herself for misunderstanding him so completely. Her true brother, Lord Nicholas Grey, recognizes Elizabeth's uncanny resemblance to his mother when he sees her in the park and has a servant follow her to her uncle's home in Cheapside. He meets with Mr. Gardiner, armed with a portrait taken of the Countess of Tamworth when she was twenty, and relates that his sister, Lady Elizabeth Grey, disappeared from her crib as a baby. While Elizabeth's uncle doesn't know the entire story, he is aware that Mrs. Bennet had miscarried, the Bennets "found" Elizabeth soon after, and they had claimed her as their own child without disclosing her origin to anyone else.
Elizabeth reels from this revelation when it's shared with her, and immediately thereafter she encounters Mr. Darcy. The two are quick to beg each other's pardon for their terrible behavior at Hunsford, and he receives permission to call on her at her uncle's home. Elizabeth feels it's improper to tell him what has her so upset until Mr. Bennet has been advised and her true parentage is confirmed.
The betrothal provides another slow drip-drip of anticipation. Lady Elizabeth has an obscenely large dowry and her father, already fearful of fortune hunters when she was born, set his mind at ease by establishing a betrothal agreement between his daughter and the eldest son of his friend, the Earl of Matlock. Now that Lady Elizabeth has been recovered and Viscount Lisle is at the age where he should be married, Matlock is eager to see the two wed.
The points of view change frequently, each chapter moving to a different character, providing everyone's perspective on events as they unfold. As I said earlier, I found anticipating reactions and how things might play out once all was revealed made this fun to read. There's angst, but the tone is more light than melodramatic. It's well-written and well-edited, too. Content is clean.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2025
The countenance is the portrait of the soul, and the eyes mark its intentions. ~ Cicero
Comments from reader friends in the JAFF world have convinced me that “Elizabeth is not a Bennet” is among the most popular tropes. If you are in that crowd, you will want to read this one.
“Forgotten Betrothal” begins with the betrothal that will soon be forgotten. Two men agree to an understanding concerning the newborn daughter of one and the son of the other.
Twenty years later, one man’s son sees a young lady in the park and is intrigued by her fine eyes.
Beauty… when you look into a woman's eyes and see what is in her heart. ~ Nate Dircks
Quote from the book: Lord Nicholas Grey, Baron Grey de Rotherfield, journeyed home from Hyde Park with one goal in mind … a seemingly innocuous meeting with a pleasant young woman had thrown his mind into disarray as the potential ramifications of this casual encounter were, at the moment, too terrifying to contemplate.
Could it even be possible?
Nicholas Grey saw his mother in the park — his mother as she had looked when she was a newlywed. One possible explanation: his infant sister, missing for twenty years, has been found.
He had the young lady followed to a residence in Cheapside and easily learned the home was owned by a tradesman named Gardiner. He calls on Mr. Gardiner at his business and learns Elizabeth Bennet was a foundling and is not the Bennets’ natural-born daughter. The next call is at the Gardiner home to meet with Elizabeth, convinced she is his sister.
I was amused at the early visit when, of course, the ladies supposed the gentleman would be interested in Jane, the family’s beauty. Instead, his attention returned to Elizabeth, who has a panic when she learns about her possible parentage. In this panic, she escapes the house and runs directly into (drumroll, please) Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Darcy was acquainted with the Grey family and had been in school with Nicholas, but the elder Greys had largely withdrawn from London society after the disappearance of their daughter. Darcy had not seen Lady Tamworth in many years and thus did not note her resemblance to the woman who had recently refused his proposal.
A man finds room in the few square inches of his face for the traits of all his ancestors; for the expression of all his history, and his wants. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
The “courtship” of Darcy and Elizabeth begins with that crash meeting and is everything tender and sweet until … it is not.
How did Elizabeth become lost?
How did Mr. and Mrs. Bennet find her?
Who is her cradle betrothed? Why was the betrothal signed?
Like everything from Quills & Quartos, this book has been proofread and edited. “Forgotten Betrothal” is moving into my “re-read” pile. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys JAFF — especially those like me, who love reading “Elizabeth is not a Bennet” stories. You know who you are.
The eyes are the windows to the soul ~ Idiom
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Comments from reader friends in the JAFF world have convinced me that “Elizabeth is not a Bennet” is among the most popular tropes. If you are in that crowd, you will want to read this one.
“Forgotten Betrothal” begins with the betrothal that will soon be forgotten. Two men agree to an understanding concerning the newborn daughter of one and the son of the other.
Twenty years later, one man’s son sees a young lady in the park and is intrigued by her fine eyes.
Beauty… when you look into a woman's eyes and see what is in her heart. ~ Nate Dircks
Quote from the book: Lord Nicholas Grey, Baron Grey de Rotherfield, journeyed home from Hyde Park with one goal in mind … a seemingly innocuous meeting with a pleasant young woman had thrown his mind into disarray as the potential ramifications of this casual encounter were, at the moment, too terrifying to contemplate.
Could it even be possible?
Nicholas Grey saw his mother in the park — his mother as she had looked when she was a newlywed. One possible explanation: his infant sister, missing for twenty years, has been found.
He had the young lady followed to a residence in Cheapside and easily learned the home was owned by a tradesman named Gardiner. He calls on Mr. Gardiner at his business and learns Elizabeth Bennet was a foundling and is not the Bennets’ natural-born daughter. The next call is at the Gardiner home to meet with Elizabeth, convinced she is his sister.
I was amused at the early visit when, of course, the ladies supposed the gentleman would be interested in Jane, the family’s beauty. Instead, his attention returned to Elizabeth, who has a panic when she learns about her possible parentage. In this panic, she escapes the house and runs directly into (drumroll, please) Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Darcy was acquainted with the Grey family and had been in school with Nicholas, but the elder Greys had largely withdrawn from London society after the disappearance of their daughter. Darcy had not seen Lady Tamworth in many years and thus did not note her resemblance to the woman who had recently refused his proposal.
A man finds room in the few square inches of his face for the traits of all his ancestors; for the expression of all his history, and his wants. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
The “courtship” of Darcy and Elizabeth begins with that crash meeting and is everything tender and sweet until … it is not.
How did Elizabeth become lost?
How did Mr. and Mrs. Bennet find her?
Who is her cradle betrothed? Why was the betrothal signed?
Like everything from Quills & Quartos, this book has been proofread and edited. “Forgotten Betrothal” is moving into my “re-read” pile. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys JAFF — especially those like me, who love reading “Elizabeth is not a Bennet” stories. You know who you are.
The eyes are the windows to the soul ~ Idiom
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2022
I admit, Elizabeth is not a Bennet trope is my absolute favorite! This variation does not disappoint.
Following the Hunsford catastrophe, Elizabeth is in London, in poor spirits, with her sister Jane, but thinking of Darcy. A chance meeting with a stranger in Hyde park changes everything she thought she knew about her life. Elizabeth is his sister lost for 20 years. Her background is revealed, as well as the pain her family lived with from her kidnapping.
Meanwhile Darcy, sinking into despair, gets schooled by Col. F and sets out to woo Elizabeth in the hopes of drastically altering her opinion of him.
The 2 storylines happen in parallel to each other until the 2 threads meet to the shock of ODC!
Despite the drama, the main part of the story is ODC growing their connection.
Mr Bennet is interviewed, Mrs. Bennet has a couple of moments, Bingley pops in here and there and the Gardiners and Jane of course have a strong presence.
However, the thrust of of this story takes place almost in a bubble with Elizabeth and her true family and Darcy and his family.
The writing is so good, flowing effortlessly. Characters are solid and multi-dimensional. We are not subjected to Lady C, Collins or Wickham apart from honorable mentions and you don't miss them.
Clean content.
A seriously refreshing JAFF, with just the right mix of romance and drama!
A reread for sure.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Following the Hunsford catastrophe, Elizabeth is in London, in poor spirits, with her sister Jane, but thinking of Darcy. A chance meeting with a stranger in Hyde park changes everything she thought she knew about her life. Elizabeth is his sister lost for 20 years. Her background is revealed, as well as the pain her family lived with from her kidnapping.
Meanwhile Darcy, sinking into despair, gets schooled by Col. F and sets out to woo Elizabeth in the hopes of drastically altering her opinion of him.
The 2 storylines happen in parallel to each other until the 2 threads meet to the shock of ODC!
Despite the drama, the main part of the story is ODC growing their connection.
Mr Bennet is interviewed, Mrs. Bennet has a couple of moments, Bingley pops in here and there and the Gardiners and Jane of course have a strong presence.
However, the thrust of of this story takes place almost in a bubble with Elizabeth and her true family and Darcy and his family.
The writing is so good, flowing effortlessly. Characters are solid and multi-dimensional. We are not subjected to Lady C, Collins or Wickham apart from honorable mentions and you don't miss them.
Clean content.
A seriously refreshing JAFF, with just the right mix of romance and drama!
A reread for sure.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 26, 2021
I have read and enjoyed several stories in which Elizabeth is not a Bennet. In this one we have a prologue in which, soon after her birth, her legal/blood father is contracting with Lord Matlock for a marriage between one's daughter and the other's heir. We then jump forward 20 years.
Elizabeth has turned down Darcy's Hunsford proposal, returned to the Gardiner's residence in London and while taking a stroll in Hyde Park, drops one of his letter's pages. A young man picks it up and returns it to her. Thus begins a series of coincidental events. The man, Lord Nicholas Grey, Baron Grey de Rotherfield, just happens to be her brother. Due to her physical similarities to their mother he has her followed and soon is visiting the Gardiners with a small painting of his mother done just after her marriage. Elizabeth, in shock, runs from the house...into Darcy who has come by and in comforting her (here is another coincidence) begins to call on her. He learns about the fact that she now has a long-lost family. HOWEVER, he doesn't learn their full identity and the fact that she has a "cradle-betrothal" to another man (and another coincidence as to that man's identity - I won't say - you may guess).
I have to say that I loved her brother, Nicholas, who is all loving and protective of her.
Of course there is an investigation into how the Bennets came into possession of Elizabeth those 20 years ago. Was it by accident? Did they collude with someone to kidnap her? Why did they never attempt to find her true parents? Do they have any proof from that time which might show her identity?
Lord Harry Grey, the earl of Tamworth and his wife, Amelia, Lady Tamworth, had withdrawn from society all those many years ago. Lady Amelia has never recovered from that trauma. Their family reunion is so poignant, so very touching. Memories of her first steps, her first words, etc. can never be regained.
I do have to relate that Elizabeth is not told of the cradle arrangement immediately and that there is reluctance by some to inform her of such...but not everyone is leery of "hitting" her with that information up front. Again Elizabeth has another shock. With Darcy courting her...successfully learning she is promised to another is another trauma with which to deal. Darcy's reaction is also severe and gives this story some of that angst I so love.
Lady Catherine and Wickham are not a factor in this story although there is mention of them. Jane's and Bingley's story does not play out as in canon. Elizabeth has, as in canon, been Mr. Bennet's favorite daughter so that is a factor in his feelings as his past actions come to light.
This is one of those stories that, while it doesn't follow the outline of canon, does draw the reader in and keep one turning pages. Yes, we do have our HEA. I highly recommend this story - well written and edited.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elizabeth has turned down Darcy's Hunsford proposal, returned to the Gardiner's residence in London and while taking a stroll in Hyde Park, drops one of his letter's pages. A young man picks it up and returns it to her. Thus begins a series of coincidental events. The man, Lord Nicholas Grey, Baron Grey de Rotherfield, just happens to be her brother. Due to her physical similarities to their mother he has her followed and soon is visiting the Gardiners with a small painting of his mother done just after her marriage. Elizabeth, in shock, runs from the house...into Darcy who has come by and in comforting her (here is another coincidence) begins to call on her. He learns about the fact that she now has a long-lost family. HOWEVER, he doesn't learn their full identity and the fact that she has a "cradle-betrothal" to another man (and another coincidence as to that man's identity - I won't say - you may guess).
I have to say that I loved her brother, Nicholas, who is all loving and protective of her.
Of course there is an investigation into how the Bennets came into possession of Elizabeth those 20 years ago. Was it by accident? Did they collude with someone to kidnap her? Why did they never attempt to find her true parents? Do they have any proof from that time which might show her identity?
Lord Harry Grey, the earl of Tamworth and his wife, Amelia, Lady Tamworth, had withdrawn from society all those many years ago. Lady Amelia has never recovered from that trauma. Their family reunion is so poignant, so very touching. Memories of her first steps, her first words, etc. can never be regained.
I do have to relate that Elizabeth is not told of the cradle arrangement immediately and that there is reluctance by some to inform her of such...but not everyone is leery of "hitting" her with that information up front. Again Elizabeth has another shock. With Darcy courting her...successfully learning she is promised to another is another trauma with which to deal. Darcy's reaction is also severe and gives this story some of that angst I so love.
Lady Catherine and Wickham are not a factor in this story although there is mention of them. Jane's and Bingley's story does not play out as in canon. Elizabeth has, as in canon, been Mr. Bennet's favorite daughter so that is a factor in his feelings as his past actions come to light.
This is one of those stories that, while it doesn't follow the outline of canon, does draw the reader in and keep one turning pages. Yes, we do have our HEA. I highly recommend this story - well written and edited.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 9, 2023
Excellent Debut
This debut novel begins with an intriguing prologue where we find the Earl of Matlock ensconced in his study with an as yet unidentified associate. They are concerned over the fate of the associate’s infant daughter. With a view to protecting her future from scoundrels only interested in monetary gain, they agree to a marriage contract for her and Matlock’s future heir.
Twenty years later, we find a disheartened Elizabeth rambling through Hyde Park in deep reflection over the events of the past several months in Meryton and Hunsford. The revelations of Darcy’s letter have begun to let her see him in a different light. So distracted, she unknowingly drops a page and is suddenly approached by a stranger who is intent upon returning it to her. This event will forever change her life. The stranger has noted a remarkable resemblance between Elizabeth and his own mother and suspects she may be the sister that was stolen from her nursery as an infant. A few days later when Elizabeth is finally made aware of this, in shock she runs from the Gardiner house straight into the path of Darcy’s horse. In an effort to comfort her, he takes her across to a park bench where they begin to talk, their acquaintance is once again renewed, and a new courtship slowly begun. Darcy still does not know of her new circumstances, however. As Elizabeth’s new life begins to unfold, the book is made up of parallel storylines—the unfolding relationship with her new family and their Fitzwilliam friends, and her as yet unrevealed courtship with Darcy.
I absolutely loved how this book let us see how wonderfully a Darcy and Elizabeth courtship could proceed after his first failed attempt without the usual Wickham/Lydia elopement trope. This couldn’t have delighted me more. Their beautifully-written conversations were honest, tender, sweet, and romantic. I truly loved this Darcy and Elizabeth and their finally having a real opportunity to communicate in a straightforward manner. But as their happiness is at long last about to see its fulfillment, will it all come crashing down when the secret arrangement of twenty years past sees the light of day?
There were many tender and emotional moments in this book, not just between ODC, but also the members of Elizabeth’s two families, especially the four parents. My heart couldn’t help but ache for all of them. The Gardiners and Jane are present throughout in a supportive and loving role. The characters that make up Elizabeth’s new family were extremely likeable and well portrayed, especially her new brother. There is just but a mention of Wickham and Lady Catherine or the other Bennet sisters, none of whom play role in the story. The Bingleys play a minor role. Unfortunately, Charles is a disappointment.
The author’s writing style flows nicely with both descriptive narrative and engaging dialogue, all without any noticeable flaws. Brilliantly done. I especially liked Darcy’s reflections on Blake’s The Clod and the Pebble. I do always enjoy the “not a Bennet” trope, as it’s a favorite, and this is one of the best I’ve read. I highly recommend it and will look forward to the release so I can purchase the published version for my Kindle library.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 6, 2021 - Audiobook
This book also presents well as an audiobook. The narration by Maddie McGowan is very good. I would have liked a lower register for the voices of some male characters, Mr. Bennet in particular. Also her pronunciation of de Bourgh (came out like de Burr) seemed off, as well as the word reticule (sounded like recticule). Overall I still give the audiobook five stars. Well done.
This debut novel begins with an intriguing prologue where we find the Earl of Matlock ensconced in his study with an as yet unidentified associate. They are concerned over the fate of the associate’s infant daughter. With a view to protecting her future from scoundrels only interested in monetary gain, they agree to a marriage contract for her and Matlock’s future heir.
Twenty years later, we find a disheartened Elizabeth rambling through Hyde Park in deep reflection over the events of the past several months in Meryton and Hunsford. The revelations of Darcy’s letter have begun to let her see him in a different light. So distracted, she unknowingly drops a page and is suddenly approached by a stranger who is intent upon returning it to her. This event will forever change her life. The stranger has noted a remarkable resemblance between Elizabeth and his own mother and suspects she may be the sister that was stolen from her nursery as an infant. A few days later when Elizabeth is finally made aware of this, in shock she runs from the Gardiner house straight into the path of Darcy’s horse. In an effort to comfort her, he takes her across to a park bench where they begin to talk, their acquaintance is once again renewed, and a new courtship slowly begun. Darcy still does not know of her new circumstances, however. As Elizabeth’s new life begins to unfold, the book is made up of parallel storylines—the unfolding relationship with her new family and their Fitzwilliam friends, and her as yet unrevealed courtship with Darcy.
I absolutely loved how this book let us see how wonderfully a Darcy and Elizabeth courtship could proceed after his first failed attempt without the usual Wickham/Lydia elopement trope. This couldn’t have delighted me more. Their beautifully-written conversations were honest, tender, sweet, and romantic. I truly loved this Darcy and Elizabeth and their finally having a real opportunity to communicate in a straightforward manner. But as their happiness is at long last about to see its fulfillment, will it all come crashing down when the secret arrangement of twenty years past sees the light of day?
There were many tender and emotional moments in this book, not just between ODC, but also the members of Elizabeth’s two families, especially the four parents. My heart couldn’t help but ache for all of them. The Gardiners and Jane are present throughout in a supportive and loving role. The characters that make up Elizabeth’s new family were extremely likeable and well portrayed, especially her new brother. There is just but a mention of Wickham and Lady Catherine or the other Bennet sisters, none of whom play role in the story. The Bingleys play a minor role. Unfortunately, Charles is a disappointment.
The author’s writing style flows nicely with both descriptive narrative and engaging dialogue, all without any noticeable flaws. Brilliantly done. I especially liked Darcy’s reflections on Blake’s The Clod and the Pebble. I do always enjoy the “not a Bennet” trope, as it’s a favorite, and this is one of the best I’ve read. I highly recommend it and will look forward to the release so I can purchase the published version for my Kindle library.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 6, 2021 - Audiobook
This book also presents well as an audiobook. The narration by Maddie McGowan is very good. I would have liked a lower register for the voices of some male characters, Mr. Bennet in particular. Also her pronunciation of de Bourgh (came out like de Burr) seemed off, as well as the word reticule (sounded like recticule). Overall I still give the audiobook five stars. Well done.
July 16, 2021
This book is fine, clean LOW angst and otherwise sort of unremarkable.
We begin with Lizzy wandering a London park and rereading Darcy's letter following the DP@H; so you need to have read P&P to know what's what.
This is another book that postulates that Lizzy isn't a Bennet; in this case again the kidnapped daughter of an Earl. Why is it always Dukes and Earls did no one kidnap the children of blacksmiths or innkeepers?
Any way this baby was betrothed to the Earl of ____'s son' (colonel Fitzwilliam's brother) who excitedly reports to Darcy that the mistress of his future life has been rediscovered. So when Darcy learns who Lizzy is he behaves stupidly.
What kept this from being a 5 star book was the lack of drama or intrigue. Most problems are quickly wrapped up. Also there is a really pointless scene toward the end where Caroline gets her comeuppance; but since Caro was absent from most of the book I found it awkward. And there is the dreaded five or six years in the future epilogue These comments go behind a spoiler tag
We begin with Lizzy wandering a London park and rereading Darcy's letter following the DP@H; so you need to have read P&P to know what's what.
This is another book that postulates that Lizzy isn't a Bennet; in this case again the kidnapped daughter of an Earl. Why is it always Dukes and Earls did no one kidnap the children of blacksmiths or innkeepers?
Any way this baby was betrothed to the Earl of ____'s son' (colonel Fitzwilliam's brother) who excitedly reports to Darcy that the mistress of his future life has been rediscovered. So when Darcy learns who Lizzy is he behaves stupidly.
What kept this from being a 5 star book was the lack of drama or intrigue. Most problems are quickly wrapped up. Also there is a really pointless scene toward the end where Caroline gets her comeuppance; but since Caro was absent from most of the book I found it awkward. And there is the dreaded five or six years in the future epilogue These comments go behind a spoiler tag
June 6, 2021
A Promising Debut
Romano, the new kid on the JAFF block, acquits herself admirably in this sweet yarn.
Synopsis:
The curtains open on Dec 1, 1791.
Lizzy is but a babe, but she is already turning her fathers hair gray- which is fitting as he is Lord Grey- with worry of her becoming the target of enterprising men for her dowry and title. Venting about his qualms for the far off future with his pal Lord Matlock they land on a drastic solution and seal it with a binding legal document that would make Lady Catherine salivate: A cradle engagement.
That winter the family nursemaid went bonkers after a sweeping epidemic left her brain addled, the family noted she was off-kilter and -now prepare thyself from some bizarre logic, so beyond the pale of reason it figuratively thumbs its nose at it- they thought the happy, already irresistibly charming, baby Lizzy would help Nanny McNuts get her groove back; because that's a parents priority, leasing their baby out as emotional support to the unstable help.
Well, that venture ended as poorly as would be expected: A kidnapped little Lizzy.
We then jump forward to Lizzy in London post Hunsford. She is deep in retrospect, contemplating Darcy's letter in Hyde Park, and drops a page of the letter. A young gentlemen stranger returns the wayward page to her and is struck by Lizzy's visage.
Thanks to a miniature of his mom in her heyday- the spitting image of Lizzy- he is able to make the connection that she must be his missing baby sister.
Miniatures of parents & damning birthmarks were the closest you could get back then to conclusive paternity tests.
Keep in mind this was a pre-Murray Povich society. They made do with their limited resources.
Anyway, this means Lizzy is promised to Lord Matlock's eldest son, Viscount James Fitzwilliam- how delicious! How rife with potential!
What Charmed:
♡The writing is light and pleasing- easy to get lost in and with a good dialogue to introspection ratio. I like how we get several POVs, the lot of it played like a movie in my head. Also, this should go without saying in any published work, but unfortunately it does require saying in JAFF: the syntax and era appropriate language is on fleek.
♡Jane! Paradoxically, I love with equal fervor 'Evil Jane' and her opposite 'Angelic-but-Stand-her-Ground-Jane,' which is who we get here. I guess the salient factor is Jane gets some gumption and stage presence.
♡The premiss of course, that’s the MVP of this work. It is so fun whenever Lizzy gets a status upgrade!
♡ODC vs World- however I will say I could have used a bit more development before they landed on the same page.
What Marred:
✗Too much rehashing of canon events in introspection/conversation. I suppose this would be a great starter JAFF for those who require a refresher, but most serial JAFF readers would be overly acquainted with those details and find them tedious. The work is also repetitive with it's own original facts/ events. There were several instances where info previously disclosed or witnessed in a scene is repeated to another character in a too detailed manner that could have been accomplished by surmising it in a line. The extent this was rampant that it began to come off as intentional filler.
✗Darcy and Lizzy had this less mature 'out-of-character' vibe.
Their interactions were cordial and sweet, just lacked a compelling tangibility. I also feel their courtship was minimally colored by the premiss.
✗A thin plot and almost zero conflict.
The one time there is a sniff of a conflict it hinges on the most flimsy venue for it: I just was disappointed for I believe there were so many more enticing avenues of contention to explore, i.e.
✗Slow set up.
✗Antagonist MIA. Just everyone was so darn virtuous and there were no villains.
If you gather any group of people, they will find something, no matter how minute, to eventually rumble about. Imperfections go hand in hand with personalities, and this is something everyone in the story could have used a good dousing of.
The Brass Tacks:
My enjoyment of this work hinged largely on the premiss being my JAFF trope brand of choice. Whilst I found this entertaining and very respectable for a debut, I also think this work could have explored more nuanced angles, distinguished characterizations, injected stakes, and a sprinkle of angst never hurt nobody; Nonetheless, I am keen to see what form this authors next work will take.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through Booksprout for an honest review.
Romano, the new kid on the JAFF block, acquits herself admirably in this sweet yarn.
Synopsis:
The curtains open on Dec 1, 1791.
Lizzy is but a babe, but she is already turning her fathers hair gray- which is fitting as he is Lord Grey- with worry of her becoming the target of enterprising men for her dowry and title. Venting about his qualms for the far off future with his pal Lord Matlock they land on a drastic solution and seal it with a binding legal document that would make Lady Catherine salivate: A cradle engagement.
That winter the family nursemaid went bonkers after a sweeping epidemic left her brain addled, the family noted she was off-kilter and -now prepare thyself from some bizarre logic, so beyond the pale of reason it figuratively thumbs its nose at it- they thought the happy, already irresistibly charming, baby Lizzy would help Nanny McNuts get her groove back; because that's a parents priority, leasing their baby out as emotional support to the unstable help.
Well, that venture ended as poorly as would be expected: A kidnapped little Lizzy.
We then jump forward to Lizzy in London post Hunsford. She is deep in retrospect, contemplating Darcy's letter in Hyde Park, and drops a page of the letter. A young gentlemen stranger returns the wayward page to her and is struck by Lizzy's visage.
Thanks to a miniature of his mom in her heyday- the spitting image of Lizzy- he is able to make the connection that she must be his missing baby sister.
Miniatures of parents & damning birthmarks were the closest you could get back then to conclusive paternity tests.
Keep in mind this was a pre-Murray Povich society. They made do with their limited resources.
Anyway, this means Lizzy is promised to Lord Matlock's eldest son, Viscount James Fitzwilliam- how delicious! How rife with potential!
What Charmed:
♡The writing is light and pleasing- easy to get lost in and with a good dialogue to introspection ratio. I like how we get several POVs, the lot of it played like a movie in my head. Also, this should go without saying in any published work, but unfortunately it does require saying in JAFF: the syntax and era appropriate language is on fleek.
♡Jane! Paradoxically, I love with equal fervor 'Evil Jane' and her opposite 'Angelic-but-Stand-her-Ground-Jane,' which is who we get here. I guess the salient factor is Jane gets some gumption and stage presence.
♡The premiss of course, that’s the MVP of this work. It is so fun whenever Lizzy gets a status upgrade!
♡ODC vs World- however I will say I could have used a bit more development before they landed on the same page.
What Marred:
✗Too much rehashing of canon events in introspection/conversation. I suppose this would be a great starter JAFF for those who require a refresher, but most serial JAFF readers would be overly acquainted with those details and find them tedious. The work is also repetitive with it's own original facts/ events. There were several instances where info previously disclosed or witnessed in a scene is repeated to another character in a too detailed manner that could have been accomplished by surmising it in a line. The extent this was rampant that it began to come off as intentional filler.
✗Darcy and Lizzy had this less mature 'out-of-character' vibe.
Their interactions were cordial and sweet, just lacked a compelling tangibility. I also feel their courtship was minimally colored by the premiss.
✗A thin plot and almost zero conflict.
The one time there is a sniff of a conflict it hinges on the most flimsy venue for it: I just was disappointed for I believe there were so many more enticing avenues of contention to explore, i.e.
✗Slow set up.
✗Antagonist MIA. Just everyone was so darn virtuous and there were no villains.
If you gather any group of people, they will find something, no matter how minute, to eventually rumble about. Imperfections go hand in hand with personalities, and this is something everyone in the story could have used a good dousing of.
The Brass Tacks:
My enjoyment of this work hinged largely on the premiss being my JAFF trope brand of choice. Whilst I found this entertaining and very respectable for a debut, I also think this work could have explored more nuanced angles, distinguished characterizations, injected stakes, and a sprinkle of angst never hurt nobody; Nonetheless, I am keen to see what form this authors next work will take.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through Booksprout for an honest review.
September 20, 2021
What a delightful and well written debut novel with one of my favourite tropes...Elizabeth is not a Bennet! There is just something about this trope that appeals to my sense of the dramatic. One can go off on so many different tangents with it.
The book opens with Lord Matlock and a close friend arranging a betrothal between their children, little knowing the events that will upset their lives. Twenty years on, a young man meets a young lady in Hyde Park whose face is the likeness of his mother's when she was younger. Is their search finally over?
Elizabeth Bennet is in London with the Gardiners and her sister, Jane. Her visit with Charlotte Collins in Hunsford has ended but in such a disastrous way. Mr. Darcy has also returned to London, and he is drowning his sorrows in his finest French brandy. Will they ever meet again and reconcile their differences?
One of the things I loved about this story were the original characters created by this author. The development of the story and the growth of Elizabeth and Darcy, along with Jane Bennet, were so fulfilling. This is one novel, I look forward to reading again. Brava Ms. Romano!
July 4, 2023
After the drama and anguish of the Hunsford proposal, Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy retreat to London. He to his Mayfair townhouse to wallow in misery and to acknowledge to himself, that he never deserved her love.
Elizabeth joins her sister in Cheapside, with Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. She spends her time reflecting on her misjudgement of Darcy’s character.
During one of her regular walks, she meets a gentleman who recognises her, as family!
Elizabeth discovers she is not who she thought she was.
In great distress at these revelations, she runs from the Gardiner house into the street, directly into the path of a horse.
Fortunately, the rider is Darcy, who stops and aids her in her distress. So the couple meet again.
This is a great story with love, angst, joy and forgiveness.
I love this Darcy. He is so steadfast and kind. I like how he opens up to Elizabeth.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Elizabeth joins her sister in Cheapside, with Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. She spends her time reflecting on her misjudgement of Darcy’s character.
During one of her regular walks, she meets a gentleman who recognises her, as family!
Elizabeth discovers she is not who she thought she was.
In great distress at these revelations, she runs from the Gardiner house into the street, directly into the path of a horse.
Fortunately, the rider is Darcy, who stops and aids her in her distress. So the couple meet again.
This is a great story with love, angst, joy and forgiveness.
I love this Darcy. He is so steadfast and kind. I like how he opens up to Elizabeth.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2022
The author sets up this Pride and Prejudice variation so beautifully that once it got rolling I could hardly put it down. The characters are well developed and the story is so compelling. The content is clean and the writing is excellent. I loved the addition of the new characters. I liked the epilogue too, though Jane’s situation was not what I was imagining (I thought there might have been a closer connection in the works). Highly recommend this engaging story. I just finished it and already want to reread it.
May 19, 2024
Lady Elizabeth
4.5 rounded to 5.0 stars. The beginning is similar Jann Rowland book, “Out of Obscurity “. Lizzy is a foundling though hardly anyone knows that. The story was a fun read except Lizzy will run out into the darkness to much.
4.5 rounded to 5.0 stars. The beginning is similar Jann Rowland book, “Out of Obscurity “. Lizzy is a foundling though hardly anyone knows that. The story was a fun read except Lizzy will run out into the darkness to much.
October 7, 2022
What a deviation!
This tale picks up after Kent and it upends Elizabeth's life completely. She needs an anchor and gets the best one. A very worthy story!
This tale picks up after Kent and it upends Elizabeth's life completely. She needs an anchor and gets the best one. A very worthy story!
December 7, 2021
I loved this story and I'm going to tell you why, just be warned there will be spoilers.
Starts post disastrous Hunsford proposal. Darcy distraught, depressed and drinking (which doesn't help the first two 'd's.' Scaring Georgiana. Raising the Colonel's call to action. Elizabeth with Jane in in Cheapside agonizing over her horrible outburst and tearing Darcy a new one, and over her blindness where it came to Wickham (you know that snake-in-the-grass,) and over Jane's grieving sadness and horrid treatment by the 'superior sisters.'
After seeing Mr. Darcy again by happenstance, he goes to Bingley and Elizabeth waits for him to call. She has another really important caller and some really shocking information to process from him and now from the rest of her family. Fortunately for Jane, she has moved on from her infatuation with Charles Bingley realizing no one is to blame for his abandonment but him. She realizes she's better off without a little boy and needs a man. Go Jane!!! I was whooping about it (to myself,) but yes!!
Darcy finds Charles not interested in pursuing Jane again, he's been completely influenced by his sisters....he has to take how far they've come in society and continue raising his gentleman status in the ton. Not to mention how his marriage to Jane with her family would damage Caroline's chances on the marriage mart. Oh and by-the-way he now thinks he's just not ready to get married anyway, maybe if Jane is still around after Caroline is married, (and when do you suppose that will happen, Charles?)
Darcy and Elizabeth continue to see each other and everyone can see Darcy is in love with her. It isn't until Elizabeth has met her real parents (the shocking information to process) and come to love them and is all set to move into their town home that she knows she absolutely has to tell Darcy her real family name. However, she has another shock waiting for her because Darcy-as supportive as he really tries to remain, has just had his shock and abruptly bids her adieu and says he hopes to see her sometime soon. It was a bewildering disappointment.
Elizabeth's real parents want to introduce her to society as soon as they can but want to start slowly and accept a dinner invitation to their dear friends the Matlocks' home. The Colonel has invited Darcy after finding him once again utterly dejected, etc., etc. and giving him a pep talk, this time with a battle plan. You see Darcy knows from his older cousin what the Colonel doesn't know but tells him about, that is that the Colonel's brother has a cradle betrothal to a beautiful heiress, Lord and Lady Tamworth's daughter. And now Darcy knows that heiress is his Elizabeth. The Colonel, bless his heart, says to Darcy 'Elizabeth should be the one deciding who she will marry.' Go Richard! Back to the dinner, more than a couple people notice that Darcy can't keep his eyes off of Elizabeth. Then Matlock makes an announcement and 'the crowd goes wild!' Elizabeth demands clarification, but is overwhelmed and runs out of the room with Darcy following behind her. Oh my gosh this lengthy two sets of scenes, two happening at the same time that is was so dramatic, with Grey demanding to know why the Colonel won't let him follow Elizabeth, Lady Matlock chewing her husband out for the ridiculous timing of his reveal, Lord Tamworth chewing Matlock out for same, Lady Tamworth crying her eyes out because she's convinced they just lost their daughter all over again, the older cousin not understanding why Elizabeth would object to him when she doesn't even know him, Matlock trying to defend himself, and Jane...our dear Jane standing up for Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy...God bless you, Jane!! This is where I loved this writer so much, as though I didn't already love her for the whole darn book!! These scenes were executed so well. I never got confused as to what was going on. I'll leave the scene between Darcy and Elizabeth for others to discover, as well as the conversation the men had when our dear couple were demanded to come inside by Grey, as well as the private conversation Darcy requested of Elizabeth when the men's meeting concluded.
And oh, the Epilogue. It was so lovely and heartwarming, and darling!! I do have one thing...not a 'didn't like this' thing but I was waiting for the other shoe to drop because all the angst seem to be over by about the 88% mark. I really thought some evil b-----d from Lady Tamworth's past was going to show up and cause more pain and angst, or another bad character was going to create an ugly scene. But there were some comeuppances that took place, quite satisfying. A very very happy ending.
Highly recommended.
Starts post disastrous Hunsford proposal. Darcy distraught, depressed and drinking (which doesn't help the first two 'd's.' Scaring Georgiana. Raising the Colonel's call to action. Elizabeth with Jane in in Cheapside agonizing over her horrible outburst and tearing Darcy a new one, and over her blindness where it came to Wickham (you know that snake-in-the-grass,) and over Jane's grieving sadness and horrid treatment by the 'superior sisters.'
After seeing Mr. Darcy again by happenstance, he goes to Bingley and Elizabeth waits for him to call. She has another really important caller and some really shocking information to process from him and now from the rest of her family. Fortunately for Jane, she has moved on from her infatuation with Charles Bingley realizing no one is to blame for his abandonment but him. She realizes she's better off without a little boy and needs a man. Go Jane!!! I was whooping about it (to myself,) but yes!!
Darcy finds Charles not interested in pursuing Jane again, he's been completely influenced by his sisters....he has to take how far they've come in society and continue raising his gentleman status in the ton. Not to mention how his marriage to Jane with her family would damage Caroline's chances on the marriage mart. Oh and by-the-way he now thinks he's just not ready to get married anyway, maybe if Jane is still around after Caroline is married, (and when do you suppose that will happen, Charles?)
Darcy and Elizabeth continue to see each other and everyone can see Darcy is in love with her. It isn't until Elizabeth has met her real parents (the shocking information to process) and come to love them and is all set to move into their town home that she knows she absolutely has to tell Darcy her real family name. However, she has another shock waiting for her because Darcy-as supportive as he really tries to remain, has just had his shock and abruptly bids her adieu and says he hopes to see her sometime soon. It was a bewildering disappointment.
Elizabeth's real parents want to introduce her to society as soon as they can but want to start slowly and accept a dinner invitation to their dear friends the Matlocks' home. The Colonel has invited Darcy after finding him once again utterly dejected, etc., etc. and giving him a pep talk, this time with a battle plan. You see Darcy knows from his older cousin what the Colonel doesn't know but tells him about, that is that the Colonel's brother has a cradle betrothal to a beautiful heiress, Lord and Lady Tamworth's daughter. And now Darcy knows that heiress is his Elizabeth. The Colonel, bless his heart, says to Darcy 'Elizabeth should be the one deciding who she will marry.' Go Richard! Back to the dinner, more than a couple people notice that Darcy can't keep his eyes off of Elizabeth. Then Matlock makes an announcement and 'the crowd goes wild!' Elizabeth demands clarification, but is overwhelmed and runs out of the room with Darcy following behind her. Oh my gosh this lengthy two sets of scenes, two happening at the same time that is was so dramatic, with Grey demanding to know why the Colonel won't let him follow Elizabeth, Lady Matlock chewing her husband out for the ridiculous timing of his reveal, Lord Tamworth chewing Matlock out for same, Lady Tamworth crying her eyes out because she's convinced they just lost their daughter all over again, the older cousin not understanding why Elizabeth would object to him when she doesn't even know him, Matlock trying to defend himself, and Jane...our dear Jane standing up for Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy...God bless you, Jane!! This is where I loved this writer so much, as though I didn't already love her for the whole darn book!! These scenes were executed so well. I never got confused as to what was going on. I'll leave the scene between Darcy and Elizabeth for others to discover, as well as the conversation the men had when our dear couple were demanded to come inside by Grey, as well as the private conversation Darcy requested of Elizabeth when the men's meeting concluded.
And oh, the Epilogue. It was so lovely and heartwarming, and darling!! I do have one thing...not a 'didn't like this' thing but I was waiting for the other shoe to drop because all the angst seem to be over by about the 88% mark. I really thought some evil b-----d from Lady Tamworth's past was going to show up and cause more pain and angst, or another bad character was going to create an ugly scene. But there were some comeuppances that took place, quite satisfying. A very very happy ending.
Highly recommended.
March 13, 2022
What If Elizabeth Discovered Some Startling Secrets About Herself?
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
THE PREMISE: Elizabeth Bennet makes a new acquaintance that throws everything she has previously known about herself into question. Trying to cope with the surprising revelations and massive shifts of her life, Elizabeth unexpectedly finds solace and joy with the reacquaintance of her once rejected suitor, Mr. Darcy. Will he renew his addresses? Or will something prevent that from happening…?
MY THOUGHTS: The premise of this story was quite a delightful surprise (and I’m going to see if I can go my whole review without revealing it!). I enjoyed how it was set up and how not all was revealed to the reader. And I loved that prior to the surprising events of this novel that both Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy were already taking themselves to task for their past mistakes. With Elizabeth regretting her harsh words and misguided accusations, and Mr. Darcy realizing his officious interference with Mr. Bingley is something he might be able rectify. It was gratifying and moving to see this pair seize the opportunity to clear the air, apologize to each other, and in Mr. Darcy’s case, attempt a second (and this time more discernible) courtship.
Another element I greatly enjoyed in this story were the new characters introduced and the new and old relationships explored. The Grey family is a trio of original characters and I loved them all – especially Nicholas! I loved getting to know this family and their heartbreaking history. I loved witnessing the compassion and concern they all showed for each other, and I admired their fortitude and unity as they faced horrendous circumstances and astonishing developments. In addition, I very much loved witnessing this family’s friendships and interactions with the Fitzwilliam family. It was lovely to see devotion between the mothers, the solidarity between the fathers, and the playful antics between the sons. In addition, I enjoyed observing Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s relationships with this new family as well as seeing more of beloved characters like Jane Bennet and Colonel Fitzwilliam.
While I loved this premise and the conflict it introduced, I did find myself wishing it leaned more into that conflict or included some more twists and turns along the way. A forgotten betrothal has the potential to be rife with tension and obstacles, but in this circumstance the challenges were only momentary and easily overcome. And while some readers might be greatly in favor a low-angst story, I found myself wishing for a bit more excitement to propel this plot forward. Especially since certain elements of the story felt inevitable and the reader is easily able to foresee what will transpire. However, there might be many readers who find the pacing and balance of tension in this tale to be just to their liking.
Forgotten Betrothal is a heartwarming tale of forgiveness, family, and finding love. Readers who enjoy exploring new familial relationships and witnessing a determined Mr. Darcy and an obstinate Elizabeth Bennet seize their own happily ever after will love this one!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
THE PREMISE: Elizabeth Bennet makes a new acquaintance that throws everything she has previously known about herself into question. Trying to cope with the surprising revelations and massive shifts of her life, Elizabeth unexpectedly finds solace and joy with the reacquaintance of her once rejected suitor, Mr. Darcy. Will he renew his addresses? Or will something prevent that from happening…?
MY THOUGHTS: The premise of this story was quite a delightful surprise (and I’m going to see if I can go my whole review without revealing it!). I enjoyed how it was set up and how not all was revealed to the reader. And I loved that prior to the surprising events of this novel that both Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy were already taking themselves to task for their past mistakes. With Elizabeth regretting her harsh words and misguided accusations, and Mr. Darcy realizing his officious interference with Mr. Bingley is something he might be able rectify. It was gratifying and moving to see this pair seize the opportunity to clear the air, apologize to each other, and in Mr. Darcy’s case, attempt a second (and this time more discernible) courtship.
Another element I greatly enjoyed in this story were the new characters introduced and the new and old relationships explored. The Grey family is a trio of original characters and I loved them all – especially Nicholas! I loved getting to know this family and their heartbreaking history. I loved witnessing the compassion and concern they all showed for each other, and I admired their fortitude and unity as they faced horrendous circumstances and astonishing developments. In addition, I very much loved witnessing this family’s friendships and interactions with the Fitzwilliam family. It was lovely to see devotion between the mothers, the solidarity between the fathers, and the playful antics between the sons. In addition, I enjoyed observing Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s relationships with this new family as well as seeing more of beloved characters like Jane Bennet and Colonel Fitzwilliam.
While I loved this premise and the conflict it introduced, I did find myself wishing it leaned more into that conflict or included some more twists and turns along the way. A forgotten betrothal has the potential to be rife with tension and obstacles, but in this circumstance the challenges were only momentary and easily overcome. And while some readers might be greatly in favor a low-angst story, I found myself wishing for a bit more excitement to propel this plot forward. Especially since certain elements of the story felt inevitable and the reader is easily able to foresee what will transpire. However, there might be many readers who find the pacing and balance of tension in this tale to be just to their liking.
Forgotten Betrothal is a heartwarming tale of forgiveness, family, and finding love. Readers who enjoy exploring new familial relationships and witnessing a determined Mr. Darcy and an obstinate Elizabeth Bennet seize their own happily ever after will love this one!
Austenesque Reviews
August 18, 2021
Elizabeth Bennet has rejected Fitzwilliam Darcy in Kent and is contemplating his letter when she runs into a gentleman in the park. Little does she know that he will change her life. Nicolas Grey believes that he has found his long lost sister. In the meantime, she runs into Darcy in London and agrees to meet with him.
Elizabeth has a lot to think about as she spends her mornings with Nicolas and his questions, and her afternoons with Darcy whom she now has feeling for. These two situations, families, knowledge, and lots of love clash in this very well written story. Without providing any spoilers, I must say that the Fitzwilliam dinner party is, in my opinion, one of the best scenes ever! You will only agree if you enjoy a strong Elizabeth.
Elizabeth has a lot to think about as she spends her mornings with Nicolas and his questions, and her afternoons with Darcy whom she now has feeling for. These two situations, families, knowledge, and lots of love clash in this very well written story. Without providing any spoilers, I must say that the Fitzwilliam dinner party is, in my opinion, one of the best scenes ever! You will only agree if you enjoy a strong Elizabeth.
February 28, 2022
A divine variation
This is a story full of surprising and unexpected variations. It is well-written and full of new characters and events. There is love and laughter and plenty of smirking.
The story begins with Lord Matlock and a friend discussing the friend's four-month-old daughter and how to keep her safe. They decide to betroth the child to Lord Matlock's son, and the contract is drawn up on the spot.
About a week later, the child is kidnapped by a servant and, despite all efforts to find her, she remains missing for the next twenty years.
14
This is a story full of surprising and unexpected variations. It is well-written and full of new characters and events. There is love and laughter and plenty of smirking.
The story begins with Lord Matlock and a friend discussing the friend's four-month-old daughter and how to keep her safe. They decide to betroth the child to Lord Matlock's son, and the contract is drawn up on the spot.
About a week later, the child is kidnapped by a servant and, despite all efforts to find her, she remains missing for the next twenty years.
14
July 18, 2021
One of my favorite kind of stories is when Elizabeth is not a Bennet. In this story Elizabeth has returned from her visit in Hunsford with the Collin’s and is staying with the Gardiner’s. Jane is still heartbroken over Mr. and Miss Bingley’s treatment and Elizabeth is confused and unsettled over her reaction to Mr. Darcy’s awful proposal. During a walk in Hyde park, Elizabeth drops a page from Darcy’s letter and a stranger returns it her. That is when the man recognizes Elizabeth as his long lost sister and after soon learns she was not born a Bennet.
Elizabeth is dealing with her emotions and learning of her lost family and the Bennet’s decisions to keep her. Darcy is recovering from his loss of Elizabeth and is learning how to be the man Elizabeth deserves and begins his own transformation while trying to win her heart by courting her properly this time.
A long forgotten betrothal threatens to break ODC apart forever.
The character are well written and the writing flows effortlessly. I almost liked Mrs. Bennet in this story and that is a first for me as I never like her character. Mr. Bennet surprises with his decisions. The Bingley’s are shown for the shallow saps they are, while Jane is shown as a strong loving woman who stands by her sister. I loved Jane in this book.
I did receive ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elizabeth is dealing with her emotions and learning of her lost family and the Bennet’s decisions to keep her. Darcy is recovering from his loss of Elizabeth and is learning how to be the man Elizabeth deserves and begins his own transformation while trying to win her heart by courting her properly this time.
A long forgotten betrothal threatens to break ODC apart forever.
The character are well written and the writing flows effortlessly. I almost liked Mrs. Bennet in this story and that is a first for me as I never like her character. Mr. Bennet surprises with his decisions. The Bingley’s are shown for the shallow saps they are, while Jane is shown as a strong loving woman who stands by her sister. I loved Jane in this book.
I did receive ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2022
A change in Elizabeth's past, which changes circumstances but not her or other characters' main characteristics. A lovable Colonel Fitzwilliam, with decisive action in more than one moment. Engaging text, which if I could, would only stop at the end of the book. Great debut!
August 14, 2021
3.5 rounded up. This was a nice, pleasant read that I found enjoyable. This trope of Elizabeth not being a Bennet is actually not my favorite trope, but I felt like this was well written and kept me interested.
I enjoyed the opportunity that D&E had to have their second chance before the truth of Elizabeth’s real origins were revealed to Darcy. He proved his constancy and showed himself to be an attentive and supportive suitor and I enjoyed this side of Darcy. I felt like the relationship progressed at a good pace. They weren’t head over heels in love out of nowhere upon first seeing each other again, and I also didn’t think either was unnecessarily obstinate in their prejudices and little by little they earned that trust, affection and respect that I love to see develop between them.
Elizabeth had a great support system as she has the rug of her life pulled out from under her. How fortunate that she and Jane were in London with the Gardiners and not at Longbourn! The Gardiners, as always, were wonderful and supportive and I really liked Jane’s portrayal here. I like that she was able to recognize that Bingley didn’t deserve her and start to move on and she was a great comfort and support to Lizzy.
IMO, what would have made this good book even better were the following:
1- A few colorful characters to add a little more spice and contrast to the cast. A black sheep or two would not have gone amiss among these delightful, yet a little too kind and accommodating characters.
2- A little bit more of a premise for the plot. The circumstances and people involved in baby Elizabeth’s removal felt pretty flimsy. It also required a little too much of a stretch to believe the family of an Earl, especially a very affectionate and loving family, would entrust their baby to a mentally unstable person. I could understand their compassion and could understand them allowing Sarah to assist a more competent person and have a hand in caring for the baby, but what parent would put that person in an unsupervised role? As I read that part, I amused myself by an image my mind conjured up of a warning sign to parents about leaving your kids with unstable people!
3- Mr. and Mrs. Bennet’s decision to just keep the baby without even trying to discover who she belonged to was also a stretch. This was a baby, not a stray cat. You could go to jail! That just also seemed a bit flimsy.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It was low angst, and I liked seeing D&E on the same page for most of the book instead of at odds the whole time! I would read more from this author!
I enjoyed the opportunity that D&E had to have their second chance before the truth of Elizabeth’s real origins were revealed to Darcy. He proved his constancy and showed himself to be an attentive and supportive suitor and I enjoyed this side of Darcy. I felt like the relationship progressed at a good pace. They weren’t head over heels in love out of nowhere upon first seeing each other again, and I also didn’t think either was unnecessarily obstinate in their prejudices and little by little they earned that trust, affection and respect that I love to see develop between them.
Elizabeth had a great support system as she has the rug of her life pulled out from under her. How fortunate that she and Jane were in London with the Gardiners and not at Longbourn! The Gardiners, as always, were wonderful and supportive and I really liked Jane’s portrayal here. I like that she was able to recognize that Bingley didn’t deserve her and start to move on and she was a great comfort and support to Lizzy.
IMO, what would have made this good book even better were the following:
1- A few colorful characters to add a little more spice and contrast to the cast. A black sheep or two would not have gone amiss among these delightful, yet a little too kind and accommodating characters.
2- A little bit more of a premise for the plot. The circumstances and people involved in baby Elizabeth’s removal felt pretty flimsy. It also required a little too much of a stretch to believe the family of an Earl, especially a very affectionate and loving family, would entrust their baby to a mentally unstable person. I could understand their compassion and could understand them allowing Sarah to assist a more competent person and have a hand in caring for the baby, but what parent would put that person in an unsupervised role? As I read that part, I amused myself by an image my mind conjured up of a warning sign to parents about leaving your kids with unstable people!
3- Mr. and Mrs. Bennet’s decision to just keep the baby without even trying to discover who she belonged to was also a stretch. This was a baby, not a stray cat. You could go to jail! That just also seemed a bit flimsy.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It was low angst, and I liked seeing D&E on the same page for most of the book instead of at odds the whole time! I would read more from this author!
October 22, 2024
2024: re-read. Still a bit too wordy but excellent plot.
4.5 stars.
A very pleasant read. The author managed to make the story believable and interesting. Elizabeth, Darcy and all the characters are well portrayed and true to P&P, even the newly created ones. Nice writing style, great rhythm. I hope the author will write more variations.
4.5 stars.
A very pleasant read. The author managed to make the story believable and interesting. Elizabeth, Darcy and all the characters are well portrayed and true to P&P, even the newly created ones. Nice writing style, great rhythm. I hope the author will write more variations.
February 1, 2022
Absolutely marvelous
An absolutely marvelous and deliciously emotional variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by L.M. Romano. A very satisfying and wonderful story.
An absolutely marvelous and deliciously emotional variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by L.M. Romano. A very satisfying and wonderful story.
March 20, 2022
Oh, I was in tears at the reunion. This one was so good.
Reread: I bought the paperback so I can treasure it more.
Reread: Love!
Reread: I bought the paperback so I can treasure it more.
Reread: Love!
June 8, 2022
3.5 stars
A very nice variation on the P&P theme. Well written in a neat way.
I enjoyed how the timelines in the original P&P were re-used intelligently to match the twist imagined by LMR. The variation story itself was original enough and well handled in-story in neat bows. A real good job by LMR and a sincere hommage to the original. I loved that Elizabeth and Darcy overcame their misgivings after Kent in a natural and sweet way, and it was lovely to see their courtship, with us readers having the opportunity to witness both their inner musings.
I am happy that we were spared the Lydia adventure and that the voices given to Jane (esp. vis a vis Bingley - btw how apt the assessment of Bingley in Jane's pragmatic eyes) and Mr Bennet were sound. Nicholas was charming but the role played by Richard was beyond expectations and served well as a guardian angel of sorts to Darcy's turmoil.
The only thing I would criticise but yet appreciate at the same time was how the angst build up around the betrothal was handled. The angst was well handled in line with the pragmatic and tender tone of the book. Yet, the angst was perhaps handled a bit too easily and conveniently, as it was all over in a few chapters in a gentlemanly way and minimal fuss - which is both not enough for an angst lover like me who wished for more heart squeezing, but yet kind of appreciable considering all, because a too dragged out angst is not good either.
So all in all, some may find this book too sedate and not spiky enough, but it was a good rendition imho, with low angst and nice writing. Recommended for fans of P&P looking for a well-written sweet variation and some light hearted reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2021
Avid Reader
This was an interesting lost heiress story! Once again Elizabeth is kidnapped as a baby but not by Lady Catherine. A nanny overhears an arranged marriage between Elizabeth and Lord Matlock 's so when Elizabeth is four months old. She decides that Elizabeth deserves a better life, but she does not have the money nor anyone to feed Elizabeth while she is on the run, so she leaves Elizabeth with Mr. and Mrs.Bennet. Since Mrs. Bennet was deeply depressed after losing a daughter, Mr. Bennet goes along with jerking Elizabeth. A chance meeting in Hyde Park 20 years later changes everything!
This was an interesting lost heiress story! Once again Elizabeth is kidnapped as a baby but not by Lady Catherine. A nanny overhears an arranged marriage between Elizabeth and Lord Matlock 's so when Elizabeth is four months old. She decides that Elizabeth deserves a better life, but she does not have the money nor anyone to feed Elizabeth while she is on the run, so she leaves Elizabeth with Mr. and Mrs.Bennet. Since Mrs. Bennet was deeply depressed after losing a daughter, Mr. Bennet goes along with jerking Elizabeth. A chance meeting in Hyde Park 20 years later changes everything!
January 2, 2022
Lovely story, with a good balance of sweet romance, a dash of mystery and easily resolved angst. One minor annoyance was the frequent use of the word « hopefully » in the modern meaning, rather than the period-appropriate definition. A memo that many a JAFF author should heed.
March 31, 2025
I adored this
Such a romantic story! I was a little wary of the stolen child trope but this was so beautifully written and the original characters were well done. There were funny bits and several scenes with serious feels. I appreciated that she was assured of Darcy's regard and her own before he found out about her title (so they skipped the usual part in which they argue about whether she is only good enough for him now because of the new status) and I loved how their attachment was obvious to everyone just by looking at their behavior. Steam level: kissing.
Such a romantic story! I was a little wary of the stolen child trope but this was so beautifully written and the original characters were well done. There were funny bits and several scenes with serious feels. I appreciated that she was assured of Darcy's regard and her own before he found out about her title (so they skipped the usual part in which they argue about whether she is only good enough for him now because of the new status) and I loved how their attachment was obvious to everyone just by looking at their behavior. Steam level: kissing.
June 24, 2021
Wow! This book is so good! It is romantic, full of twists and turns, engaging, and hooks the reader from the first page to the last. Whenever I picked up "Forgotten Betrothal", I was whisked back in time, and went on such a journey with this Jane Austen variation!
This is the first book I have read by L.M. Romano, and it certainly will not be my last. Her writing style is incredibly visceral and immersive. She seamlessly weaves characters from Jane Austen's original novel with those of her own creation, and the story flows brilliantly from one moment to the next.
This variation explores what might have happened had Elizabeth not been born a Bennet. As a baby, Elizabeth's birth father promised her hand in marriage to the eldest son of a friend. However, baby Elizabeth is soon kidnapped, and unable to be found. Elizabeth is raised by the Bennet family, and does not know she is adopted.
Times goes by, and Elizabeth has just turned down Darcy's first proposal. She is walking in Hyde Park and accidentally drops a piece of the letter Darcy has written to her. A gentleman sees her, and immediately sees the resemblance to his own mother. He soon finds out that she is his missing sister. Elizabeth is shocked by the truth, and soon crosses paths with Darcy once again, and the two begin to talk more. With misunderstandings smoothed out, Darcy begins to court Elizabeth. However, now that the truth is known, will things change completely for Elizabeth? Who kidnapped Elizabeth? How did Elizabeth get to the Bennet family? With Darcy and Elizabeth's new romance beginning to bloom, what will happen as those involved with the betrothal from 20 years ago come forward wanting it to go through as planned? Will Darcy and Elizabeth get their happily-ever-after together?
If you enjoy "Pride and Prejudice" variations, I highly recommend this book! It had me turning the pages to see what would happen next, and I can't wait to read what L.M. Romano writes next.
Thank you so much to Quills & Quartos Publishing for the ARC of this book, it is so good! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This is the first book I have read by L.M. Romano, and it certainly will not be my last. Her writing style is incredibly visceral and immersive. She seamlessly weaves characters from Jane Austen's original novel with those of her own creation, and the story flows brilliantly from one moment to the next.
This variation explores what might have happened had Elizabeth not been born a Bennet. As a baby, Elizabeth's birth father promised her hand in marriage to the eldest son of a friend. However, baby Elizabeth is soon kidnapped, and unable to be found. Elizabeth is raised by the Bennet family, and does not know she is adopted.
Times goes by, and Elizabeth has just turned down Darcy's first proposal. She is walking in Hyde Park and accidentally drops a piece of the letter Darcy has written to her. A gentleman sees her, and immediately sees the resemblance to his own mother. He soon finds out that she is his missing sister. Elizabeth is shocked by the truth, and soon crosses paths with Darcy once again, and the two begin to talk more. With misunderstandings smoothed out, Darcy begins to court Elizabeth. However, now that the truth is known, will things change completely for Elizabeth? Who kidnapped Elizabeth? How did Elizabeth get to the Bennet family? With Darcy and Elizabeth's new romance beginning to bloom, what will happen as those involved with the betrothal from 20 years ago come forward wanting it to go through as planned? Will Darcy and Elizabeth get their happily-ever-after together?
If you enjoy "Pride and Prejudice" variations, I highly recommend this book! It had me turning the pages to see what would happen next, and I can't wait to read what L.M. Romano writes next.
Thank you so much to Quills & Quartos Publishing for the ARC of this book, it is so good! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
March 31, 2025
To preface this review, as a whole, I don't care for the "Elizabeth isn't a Bennet" premises because I think usually it's just a cheap tool for E&D to have their cake and eat it too, to forward blue-blood supremacy as if Elizabeth's exceptional difference is not social but genetic, or else as a way to face-slap Darcy for being narrow-minded, with an "um actually, I'm super rich and connected" tone to the reveal. This story only fails with regard to the blue-blood point and avoids the other two with how it structures the conflict.
The premise is that Darcy starts courting Elizabeth in Gracechurch Street after the botched proposal and they grow closer, but Elizabeth at the same time is embroiled in the drama of her secret noble identity. When the two storylines meet, we get the big drama followed shortly by the HEA. The development and build to the "not a Bennet" reveal is well done and Romano does a great job building the drama and tension up to the climax. All the characters are true to themselves, but we get a bit more vulnerable of an Elizabeth than usual. The E and D romance is really sweet.
However, a few things needled me throughout. The prose is good and organic to the setting for the most part, but there is way too much 'tis' and 'twas'. There are three instances of 'tis' in Austen's novel and zero 'twas'. This novel has 76 'tis' and five 'twas'. This isn't a nursery rhyme--not a fan of this overused language choice which I see a lot in JAFF, for some reason. More substantively, I did not like how often and quickly Elizabeth refers to her long-lost bio family as "father," "mother," and "brother" - a few weeks isn't enough time to warrant the change of address. Both diegetically and in the narration, this precipitous address change feels like a betrayal of the parents she's known and loved her whole life. That they don't go to meet her in London in light of this crazy shift in Elizabeth's life is also insane and unbelievable to me. I also didn't fully believe the newfound brother who's all protective of Elizabeth after knowing her for all of five seconds. These are all relatively minor complaints, but I did feel like the Bennets besides the angelic Jane are kind of the chaff Elizabeth leaves behind for her glamorous life as a blue-blood.
The premise is that Darcy starts courting Elizabeth in Gracechurch Street after the botched proposal and they grow closer, but Elizabeth at the same time is embroiled in the drama of her secret noble identity. When the two storylines meet, we get the big drama followed shortly by the HEA. The development and build to the "not a Bennet" reveal is well done and Romano does a great job building the drama and tension up to the climax. All the characters are true to themselves, but we get a bit more vulnerable of an Elizabeth than usual. The E and D romance is really sweet.
However, a few things needled me throughout. The prose is good and organic to the setting for the most part, but there is way too much 'tis' and 'twas'. There are three instances of 'tis' in Austen's novel and zero 'twas'. This novel has 76 'tis' and five 'twas'. This isn't a nursery rhyme--not a fan of this overused language choice which I see a lot in JAFF, for some reason. More substantively, I did not like how often and quickly Elizabeth refers to her long-lost bio family as "father," "mother," and "brother" - a few weeks isn't enough time to warrant the change of address. Both diegetically and in the narration, this precipitous address change feels like a betrayal of the parents she's known and loved her whole life. That they don't go to meet her in London in light of this crazy shift in Elizabeth's life is also insane and unbelievable to me. I also didn't fully believe the newfound brother who's all protective of Elizabeth after knowing her for all of five seconds. These are all relatively minor complaints, but I did feel like the Bennets besides the angelic Jane are kind of the chaff Elizabeth leaves behind for her glamorous life as a blue-blood.
July 21, 2021
Wonderful
Very entertaining book, and my first time reading this author, and I'm glad I did. After the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, and after the letter from Darcy to Elizabeth, they're both in London, Darcy in a deep depression, and Elizabeth regretful of her harsh refusal. Enter Lord Nicholas Grey, who encounters Elizabeth in Hyde Park and immediately recognizes her as his long lost sister, who was kidnapped as an infant and never found. Elizabeth happens to resemble her birth mother , and the discovery process ensues.
Meanwhile, Darcy is given a pep talk by Colonel Fitzwilliam, and decides to try for a second chance with Elizabeth, not knowing that her world is being turned upside down with the revelation that she has a wealthy and noble family, and that the Bennetts are not her relations at all.
This is a clever premise, and one that I've encountered before. It's well done, and there are several engaging new characters. I deducted a couple of stars for a few reasons. First, stupid and disappointing behavior by some important characters. Darcy's reaction when he learns about Elizabeth's new family situation, is one example. Next, there are too many loose ends that are not resolved. One glaringly obvious one is Elizabeth's decision to reconcile with her father, or not. There are many characters whose stories are just left hanging. Lastly, I think with judicious editing, this book could have been condensed quite a bit. Sometimes the dialogue included way too many of the inane pleasantries that did nothing to advance the story, such as: "Hello." " Hello, how are you? " "I'm fine, and you?" , etc. Then there was a lot of re-hashing of thoughts.
However, the book is well written, and well developed. I recommend it.
Very entertaining book, and my first time reading this author, and I'm glad I did. After the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, and after the letter from Darcy to Elizabeth, they're both in London, Darcy in a deep depression, and Elizabeth regretful of her harsh refusal. Enter Lord Nicholas Grey, who encounters Elizabeth in Hyde Park and immediately recognizes her as his long lost sister, who was kidnapped as an infant and never found. Elizabeth happens to resemble her birth mother , and the discovery process ensues.
Meanwhile, Darcy is given a pep talk by Colonel Fitzwilliam, and decides to try for a second chance with Elizabeth, not knowing that her world is being turned upside down with the revelation that she has a wealthy and noble family, and that the Bennetts are not her relations at all.
This is a clever premise, and one that I've encountered before. It's well done, and there are several engaging new characters. I deducted a couple of stars for a few reasons. First, stupid and disappointing behavior by some important characters. Darcy's reaction when he learns about Elizabeth's new family situation, is one example. Next, there are too many loose ends that are not resolved. One glaringly obvious one is Elizabeth's decision to reconcile with her father, or not. There are many characters whose stories are just left hanging. Lastly, I think with judicious editing, this book could have been condensed quite a bit. Sometimes the dialogue included way too many of the inane pleasantries that did nothing to advance the story, such as: "Hello." " Hello, how are you? " "I'm fine, and you?" , etc. Then there was a lot of re-hashing of thoughts.
However, the book is well written, and well developed. I recommend it.
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