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The Matchmaker
A feel-good variation of Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice!
Georgiana Darcy fancies herself a matchmaker. Determined to help her brother out of his blue spell, she decides that her new acquaintance—Miss Jane Bennet—is just the lady to fill Darcy’s heart with cheer. And while she is at it, would not Miss Elizabeth Bennet suit Georgiana’s cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam perfectly?
Misunderstandings abound as the characters readers know and love take matters into their own hands, leaving Miss Darcy caught unaware.
Will Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth admit they are in love with each other, or will the interference of a well-meaning girl keep them apart? What happens when the course of true love does not run straight? Does Miss Darcy learn the lesson that it is best not to interfere?
Told primarily from Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth’s point of view, this charming 25,000-word Regency tale by best-selling author Christie Capps is appropriate for all ages.
Georgiana Darcy fancies herself a matchmaker. Determined to help her brother out of his blue spell, she decides that her new acquaintance—Miss Jane Bennet—is just the lady to fill Darcy’s heart with cheer. And while she is at it, would not Miss Elizabeth Bennet suit Georgiana’s cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam perfectly?
Misunderstandings abound as the characters readers know and love take matters into their own hands, leaving Miss Darcy caught unaware.
Will Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth admit they are in love with each other, or will the interference of a well-meaning girl keep them apart? What happens when the course of true love does not run straight? Does Miss Darcy learn the lesson that it is best not to interfere?
Told primarily from Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth’s point of view, this charming 25,000-word Regency tale by best-selling author Christie Capps is appropriate for all ages.
71 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
September 11, 2021
“With insufferable vanity had she believed herself in the secret of everybody’s feelings; with unpardonable arrogance proposed to arrange everybody’s destiny. She was proved to have been universally mistaken; and she had not quite done nothing – for she had done mischief.” –Jane Austen, Emma
Rating: Clean, with steamy kisses and snogging. Hey, we are dealing with passionate lovers here. Heavy sigh, with declarations that will melt your heart. Angst Level: low-to-medium, mainly due to lovers’ angst and where tensions were running a bit high until a lost and injured lady was found. It was then we were given the hero moments, to die for. Source: ARC from the author: Fan Points: 5 swoon-worthy fan points. Yeah, I had to get the Gorilla glue out again and can only hope I can fix my fan. 5+++ stars. Cover Art: fabulous cover art. Wow! Simply beautiful.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** spoilers ***
This was an amazing story. It was a quick read because I CNPID [could not put it down]. I was smiling through the whole thing. This was just fantastic. Darcy and Georgiana had left London and were headed for Pemberley when they experienced carriage trouble. They were forced to stop at an Inn while they waited for repairs. Georgiana was strolling in the back garden at the Inn where she met two sisters who were also staying there with their aunt and uncle.
Georgiana [shades of Austen’s Emma… thus the title] decided the eldest of the sisters would be perfect for her brother. The lady was shy and quiet, her brother was shy and quiet; therefore, they were perfect for each other. But she was unsure how to go about getting them together. She needed cousin Richard to help with her plan. He was an expert strategist and he would know what to do. She convinced Darcy that Richard would enjoy spending time with them while they waited. Darcy agreed and sent an express asking Richard to join them for a few days of rest while they waited for repairs. Richard was happy to oblige as time in the country with his cousins was good for his war-weary soul. He and his faithful horse Lolli were soon arriving at the Inn. Oh, I love that horse. Georgiana quickly decided the second sister would be great for Richard. She was lively as was her cousin. Yeah, her plans were working out just fine. Poor Georgiana. That was hilarious.
Darcy quickly sent Bingley a message describing their carriage problems and for him to delay his leaving London for Pemberley. Of course, Caroline intercepted the message and rousted Bingley to leave London immediately for the Inn. OMG! When that b-witch arrived at the Inn and saw the Bennet sisters, she pitched a b-fit. She was throwing slurs and accusations that would embarrass a fishwife. Gardiner was horrified that his nieces would be treated in such a manner and was determined to take Bingley to task for his sister’s behavior. The scales were off poor Jane’s eyes now. The story took a decided turn at this point and everything happened at once.
I loved this story. The declarations were so well written. Talk about being swoon-worthy, I definitely need a new fan now, for sure. Well done Christie Capps. I HIGHLY recommend this for anyone who loves a good swoon-worthy D&E. We also get to enjoy a HEA for our dear Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam. I didn’t know he could be so… so sexy but he was. Heavy sigh. Man, this guy was… whew! Yeah, he was. I want one of those. Sigh!! Grab it, read it, and enjoy it… just saying.
1st read: 8-2-21
2nd read: 9-10 ~ 9-11-21: part of the Something Collection
Rating: Clean, with steamy kisses and snogging. Hey, we are dealing with passionate lovers here. Heavy sigh, with declarations that will melt your heart. Angst Level: low-to-medium, mainly due to lovers’ angst and where tensions were running a bit high until a lost and injured lady was found. It was then we were given the hero moments, to die for. Source: ARC from the author: Fan Points: 5 swoon-worthy fan points. Yeah, I had to get the Gorilla glue out again and can only hope I can fix my fan. 5+++ stars. Cover Art: fabulous cover art. Wow! Simply beautiful.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** spoilers ***
This was an amazing story. It was a quick read because I CNPID [could not put it down]. I was smiling through the whole thing. This was just fantastic. Darcy and Georgiana had left London and were headed for Pemberley when they experienced carriage trouble. They were forced to stop at an Inn while they waited for repairs. Georgiana was strolling in the back garden at the Inn where she met two sisters who were also staying there with their aunt and uncle.
Georgiana [shades of Austen’s Emma… thus the title] decided the eldest of the sisters would be perfect for her brother. The lady was shy and quiet, her brother was shy and quiet; therefore, they were perfect for each other. But she was unsure how to go about getting them together. She needed cousin Richard to help with her plan. He was an expert strategist and he would know what to do. She convinced Darcy that Richard would enjoy spending time with them while they waited. Darcy agreed and sent an express asking Richard to join them for a few days of rest while they waited for repairs. Richard was happy to oblige as time in the country with his cousins was good for his war-weary soul. He and his faithful horse Lolli were soon arriving at the Inn. Oh, I love that horse. Georgiana quickly decided the second sister would be great for Richard. She was lively as was her cousin. Yeah, her plans were working out just fine. Poor Georgiana. That was hilarious.
Darcy quickly sent Bingley a message describing their carriage problems and for him to delay his leaving London for Pemberley. Of course, Caroline intercepted the message and rousted Bingley to leave London immediately for the Inn. OMG! When that b-witch arrived at the Inn and saw the Bennet sisters, she pitched a b-fit. She was throwing slurs and accusations that would embarrass a fishwife. Gardiner was horrified that his nieces would be treated in such a manner and was determined to take Bingley to task for his sister’s behavior. The scales were off poor Jane’s eyes now. The story took a decided turn at this point and everything happened at once.
I loved this story. The declarations were so well written. Talk about being swoon-worthy, I definitely need a new fan now, for sure. Well done Christie Capps. I HIGHLY recommend this for anyone who loves a good swoon-worthy D&E. We also get to enjoy a HEA for our dear Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam. I didn’t know he could be so… so sexy but he was. Heavy sigh. Man, this guy was… whew! Yeah, he was. I want one of those. Sigh!! Grab it, read it, and enjoy it… just saying.
1st read: 8-2-21
2nd read: 9-10 ~ 9-11-21: part of the Something Collection
March 14, 2025
“Ah, my dear, I wish you would not make matches and foretell things, for whatever you say always comes to pass. Pray, do not make any more matches.” ~ Jane Austen
At last! A book about that Li’l Ol’ Matchmaker: Georgiana Darcy! If Georgiana had been advised by Mr. Woodhouse this story would never happen.
Quote from the book: She sighed, dropping down onto the bed, her arm flung over her brow. She had been a matchmaker for less than twenty-four hours, and she was a failure.
Delayed for carriage repairs during a journey to Pemberley, Georgiana and her brother, Fitzwilliam, face a stay of several days at The Rose and Crown, near St. Albans. On a walk, Georgiana meets two sisters. Her tale leaves her brother with the impression the girls are children. But, indeed not! Georgiana has met Jane and Elizabeth Bennet — although since no formal introductions were made, she believes their surname is Gardiner, like their travel companions.
Georgiana needs Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam’s help to turn her brother’s notice to (drumroll please!) Jane Bennet.
Quote from the book: She wanted to pump her fists into the air. Yes! Richard would come and help her plan how to introduce Fitzwilliam to Jane Gardiner. Perhaps Richard would find a forever companion in Lizzy. Oh, this was working out rather well.
Or things may not be working out so well.
Darcy penned a note to Bingley to delay their arrival at Pemberley. Miss Bingley sees her chance. The Bingleys will also soon arrive at the Rose and Crown.
There are couples a matchmaker would match every time — and couples who, for no rhyme or reason, rhyme. ~ Robert Brault
This, then, is the story: the Darcys, the Bingleys, the Colonel, and the Bennet sisters meet on neutral ground.
Darcy is cautious since he has already been rejected by the Bennet of his choice.
Bingley is cautious since his sister is in full-out attack mode.
Jane is cautious since she now sees the Bingley sisters in their true colors.
Richard is cautious … NOT!
I love these short romances from Christie Capps. It saddens me that this is the last one. But it makes me happy to know J. Dawn King will be working on her longer novels.
The author gave me an ARC of this book with no promise of a review, good or bad.
Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind;
And therefore is wing'd Cupid painted blind:
~ William Shakespeare
At last! A book about that Li’l Ol’ Matchmaker: Georgiana Darcy! If Georgiana had been advised by Mr. Woodhouse this story would never happen.
Quote from the book: She sighed, dropping down onto the bed, her arm flung over her brow. She had been a matchmaker for less than twenty-four hours, and she was a failure.
Delayed for carriage repairs during a journey to Pemberley, Georgiana and her brother, Fitzwilliam, face a stay of several days at The Rose and Crown, near St. Albans. On a walk, Georgiana meets two sisters. Her tale leaves her brother with the impression the girls are children. But, indeed not! Georgiana has met Jane and Elizabeth Bennet — although since no formal introductions were made, she believes their surname is Gardiner, like their travel companions.
Georgiana needs Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam’s help to turn her brother’s notice to (drumroll please!) Jane Bennet.
Quote from the book: She wanted to pump her fists into the air. Yes! Richard would come and help her plan how to introduce Fitzwilliam to Jane Gardiner. Perhaps Richard would find a forever companion in Lizzy. Oh, this was working out rather well.
Or things may not be working out so well.
Darcy penned a note to Bingley to delay their arrival at Pemberley. Miss Bingley sees her chance. The Bingleys will also soon arrive at the Rose and Crown.
There are couples a matchmaker would match every time — and couples who, for no rhyme or reason, rhyme. ~ Robert Brault
This, then, is the story: the Darcys, the Bingleys, the Colonel, and the Bennet sisters meet on neutral ground.
Darcy is cautious since he has already been rejected by the Bennet of his choice.
Bingley is cautious since his sister is in full-out attack mode.
Jane is cautious since she now sees the Bingley sisters in their true colors.
Richard is cautious … NOT!
I love these short romances from Christie Capps. It saddens me that this is the last one. But it makes me happy to know J. Dawn King will be working on her longer novels.
The author gave me an ARC of this book with no promise of a review, good or bad.
Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind;
And therefore is wing'd Cupid painted blind:
~ William Shakespeare
August 7, 2021
This is a charming little story that occurs at an inn a few months after Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet parted in acrimony when she refused his marriage proposal. By this time, each would welcome the opportunity to apologize to the other, and Darcy wishes for much more.
He and Georgina are now on their way to Pemberley, but they've been waylaid by their carriage's broken axle and must stay at the Rose and Crown for several days while the axle is repaired.
Jane and Elizabeth Bennet are both traveling with the Gardiners and are staying at the same inn. When Georgiana comes across two sisters in the garden, she immediately believes Jane would be PERFECT for her brother and becomes eager to maneuver the two together. In exchanging names, Georgiana assumes their surname is Gardiner. She describes the two to Darcy, but his perception is of two young girls rather than young women - the first of a number of innocent misunderstandings in this sweet novella.
At Georgiana's suggestion, Darcy invites Colonel Fitzwilliam to take a short holiday and join them. At first her intention is to enlist his aid in getting her brother and Jane together, but then she realizes her cousin is a perfect match for LIZZY. Yikes!
The Bingleys come into the story too. Caroline's rudeness causes a potential crisis that drives the plot forward and allows the two romances to develop. As much as I love reading about Elizabeth and Darcy, Jane's storyline is just as strong in this well-executed novella.
A lot of JAFF authors tell their stories alternating the point of view between Elizabeth and Darcy. That's true here as well, but this also includes Georgiana's perspective. Most of the fun for the reader is watching how she misinterprets what she sees and hears regarding the Bennet sisters, unconsciously interpreting things to fit her preconceived notion of who belongs together.
There is a serious side to the plot, but most of it is playful and sweet. It builds to a satisfying turning point and resolution in a minimal number of pages without feeling rushed or incomplete. The writing and editing are excellent, as the works of Ms. Capps/Ms. King always are. Content is clean.
Highly recommend!
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. Opinions are my own.
He and Georgina are now on their way to Pemberley, but they've been waylaid by their carriage's broken axle and must stay at the Rose and Crown for several days while the axle is repaired.
Jane and Elizabeth Bennet are both traveling with the Gardiners and are staying at the same inn. When Georgiana comes across two sisters in the garden, she immediately believes Jane would be PERFECT for her brother and becomes eager to maneuver the two together. In exchanging names, Georgiana assumes their surname is Gardiner. She describes the two to Darcy, but his perception is of two young girls rather than young women - the first of a number of innocent misunderstandings in this sweet novella.
At Georgiana's suggestion, Darcy invites Colonel Fitzwilliam to take a short holiday and join them. At first her intention is to enlist his aid in getting her brother and Jane together, but then she realizes her cousin is a perfect match for LIZZY. Yikes!
The Bingleys come into the story too. Caroline's rudeness causes a potential crisis that drives the plot forward and allows the two romances to develop. As much as I love reading about Elizabeth and Darcy, Jane's storyline is just as strong in this well-executed novella.
A lot of JAFF authors tell their stories alternating the point of view between Elizabeth and Darcy. That's true here as well, but this also includes Georgiana's perspective. Most of the fun for the reader is watching how she misinterprets what she sees and hears regarding the Bennet sisters, unconsciously interpreting things to fit her preconceived notion of who belongs together.
There is a serious side to the plot, but most of it is playful and sweet. It builds to a satisfying turning point and resolution in a minimal number of pages without feeling rushed or incomplete. The writing and editing are excellent, as the works of Ms. Capps/Ms. King always are. Content is clean.
Highly recommend!
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. Opinions are my own.
August 6, 2021
My Rating: 5+++
Adorable. Beguiling. Captivating. Delightful. Funny.
I could go on with the adjectives for the whole alphabet but you get my meaning...I loved this book!
"Without Richard, she would never be able to convince her brother that she had found the one female in all of England who would make him a wonderful wife." (quote from the book)
While awaiting repairs to their carriage at the Rose & Crown Inn, Georgiana meets two young ladies; one of which she helped rescue from the thorns of a rosebush. In the telling of the tale to her brother, he 'assumes' they are very young and just happen to have the same first name as the Bennet sisters. It still pains him to think of Elizabeth after his disastrous proposal at Rosings Park. His mood has been noticed by Georgiana, and she feels he needs a wife to snap him out of it. Little does she realize what her matchmaking efforts will cause!
"It was Darcy's own foolish arrogance in believing he knew best that had been responsible for having his own heart ripped to shreds. Elizabeth was a queen. He was an idiot." (quote from the book)
As this is a novella, much happens very quickly but at the same time, so seamlessly. This author's ability to engage my emotions and sweep me along on a journey with the our beloved characters is amazing. There are so many memorable scenes; the roses; Colonel Fitzwilliam, his horse and his mirror, the arrival of Bingley and his harpies... I mean sisters (I so wanted to be that mouse), Jane and her sword, but most of all the the intense chemistry between Elizabeth and Darcy...smoldering, swoon-worthy, sizzling.
"True love, my sister, is worth everything." (quote from the book)
All I can say, is just read it and come up with your own wonderful adjectives to describe this lighthearted, poignant, and completely engaging novella!
I was fortunate to receive an ARC with no expectation for a review.
February 28, 2023
Well that was fun!
A valiant but misdirected attempt at matchmaking by Georgiana drives this sweet and delightful novella. I loved how this release was timed so I could enjoy it on a lazy summer Sunday afternoon. I’m in agreement with all the other well-written five-star reviews. Thank you Joy King for another little Christie Capps gem!
February 27,2023 - Audiobook
Simply delightful! So happy this is an audiobook and that Stevie Zimmerman narrated it, who provides a pleasurable listening experience every single time.
A valiant but misdirected attempt at matchmaking by Georgiana drives this sweet and delightful novella. I loved how this release was timed so I could enjoy it on a lazy summer Sunday afternoon. I’m in agreement with all the other well-written five-star reviews. Thank you Joy King for another little Christie Capps gem!
February 27,2023 - Audiobook
Simply delightful! So happy this is an audiobook and that Stevie Zimmerman narrated it, who provides a pleasurable listening experience every single time.
August 8, 2021
Long on romance, short on angst
A lovely hour and a half reading about Darcy and Lizzy finding each other at an inn. Lots of kissing, lots of romance and lots of love.
And additionally there are many familiar characters with stories of their own.
I shall read this again sometime when the tv news irritates me into a small rage.
A lovely hour and a half reading about Darcy and Lizzy finding each other at an inn. Lots of kissing, lots of romance and lots of love.
And additionally there are many familiar characters with stories of their own.
I shall read this again sometime when the tv news irritates me into a small rage.
August 5, 2021
This is another one of Christie Capps’ (aka J. Dawn King) short stories for busy readers. I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The setting is the Rose and Crown, a coaching inn north of St. Albans. The axle on their carriage is broken and will take 3 or 4 days to fix. Georgiana has met a young lady in the garden there and KNOWS that she is a perfect match for her brother. (This is after the Hunsford Proposal and G. can see her brother is despondent.) She is told by her brother that Bingley also has suffered a “disappointment" and she thinks that there may be a connection between the two events. She knows little about the lady except that her name is Jane.
As the story progresses other characters show up: the Colonel (who Georgiana wants to help her in matchmaking), and Bingley and his sisters and Hurst (totally out-of-the blue as Darcy had written to inform him about their delay and told him to push back their journey to Pemberley - Caroline read the letter and insisted they join Darcy).
The Gardiners are there with Jane and Elizabeth. In conversation with Georgiana her brother Darcy, reasons that this Jane and her younger sister are the Gardiners’ daughter. Age had not been discussed.
As the story progresses Jane, is a moment of sorrow, wanders out of the inn and hurts her ankle, preventing her from returning. Search parties are sent out and she is found but it is the Colonel who takes her in his arms and then onto his horse and returns with her to the inn.
I am not going to relate who is matched up here. But will say that Georgiana is totally frustrated when she sees the “wrong” people seeming to match up. There is a match-up that is different from canon so that added to the interest in this short story.
Bingley and Darcy have an intense discussion about Bingley’s lack of resolve in handling Caroline and in the matter of his attraction to Jane Bennet. Georgiana also makes strides in her recovery from Ramsgate.
I have read all this author’s stories and enjoyed them. I recommend this one, in addition.
The setting is the Rose and Crown, a coaching inn north of St. Albans. The axle on their carriage is broken and will take 3 or 4 days to fix. Georgiana has met a young lady in the garden there and KNOWS that she is a perfect match for her brother. (This is after the Hunsford Proposal and G. can see her brother is despondent.) She is told by her brother that Bingley also has suffered a “disappointment" and she thinks that there may be a connection between the two events. She knows little about the lady except that her name is Jane.
As the story progresses other characters show up: the Colonel (who Georgiana wants to help her in matchmaking), and Bingley and his sisters and Hurst (totally out-of-the blue as Darcy had written to inform him about their delay and told him to push back their journey to Pemberley - Caroline read the letter and insisted they join Darcy).
The Gardiners are there with Jane and Elizabeth. In conversation with Georgiana her brother Darcy, reasons that this Jane and her younger sister are the Gardiners’ daughter. Age had not been discussed.
As the story progresses Jane, is a moment of sorrow, wanders out of the inn and hurts her ankle, preventing her from returning. Search parties are sent out and she is found but it is the Colonel who takes her in his arms and then onto his horse and returns with her to the inn.
I am not going to relate who is matched up here. But will say that Georgiana is totally frustrated when she sees the “wrong” people seeming to match up. There is a match-up that is different from canon so that added to the interest in this short story.
Bingley and Darcy have an intense discussion about Bingley’s lack of resolve in handling Caroline and in the matter of his attraction to Jane Bennet. Georgiana also makes strides in her recovery from Ramsgate.
I have read all this author’s stories and enjoyed them. I recommend this one, in addition.
August 31, 2024
What a sweet, sweet story! Poor Georgiana! Her first and only attempt at matchmaking was a spectacular failure. I wish someone did punch Caroline, if not literally at least verbally.
June 21, 2023
What If Georgiana Attempted to Match Her Brother and Cousin with the Bennet Sisters?
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Author
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation Novella
THE PREMISE: Due to a carriage mishap and Mrs. Gardiner suffering from morning sickness, there is a convergence of Pride and Prejudice characters coincidentally holed up at the same inn. Georgiana makes the acquaintance of two friendly sisters, and she immediately decides that the one named Jane would be a perfect match for her brother, and the one named Lizzy is best suited for her cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam. Will there be an success with Georgiana’s first forays into matchmaking…
MY THOUGHTS: I love the idea of Georgina channelling Emma Woodhouse and playing matchmaker in this tale. She believes so much in her perfect pairings and I enjoyed all her subtle machinations to get her desired couples to interact with each other. But alas, her attempts seem to go awry. Especially when Georgiana realizes that the couples she is trying to pair together are already known to each other and the abominable Bingley sisters show up and stir in some unpleasant drama.
I loved that this tale had two heartwarming and sweet romantic storylines. And I loved seeing Georgiana take such an active role in this premise. Her budding relationships with both Jane and Elizabeth Bennet and her confidence and comfort in herself was lovely to witness. And while I loved seeing both Darcy and Elizabeth happily seize this second chance to get things right between them, I really was drawn to Jane’s storyline in this tale and seeing her romance fully blossom. I may have preferred it over the Darcy and Elizabeth storyline just a smidge!. Jane’s hero is incredibly swoon-worthy. I loved the combination of a brawny and fearless man also being a determined yet sensitive suitor. And I love how they both were quick to recognize and appreciate each others’ worth.
Misguided matches and unexpected encounters bring about a charming and endearing tale about finding and seizing love in Christie Capps’s final Pride and Prejudice novella. The Matchmaker is a splendidly delightful Pride and Prejudice variation that brings our favorite characters together and grants them the happy futures they deserve! I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Author
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation Novella
THE PREMISE: Due to a carriage mishap and Mrs. Gardiner suffering from morning sickness, there is a convergence of Pride and Prejudice characters coincidentally holed up at the same inn. Georgiana makes the acquaintance of two friendly sisters, and she immediately decides that the one named Jane would be a perfect match for her brother, and the one named Lizzy is best suited for her cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam. Will there be an success with Georgiana’s first forays into matchmaking…
MY THOUGHTS: I love the idea of Georgina channelling Emma Woodhouse and playing matchmaker in this tale. She believes so much in her perfect pairings and I enjoyed all her subtle machinations to get her desired couples to interact with each other. But alas, her attempts seem to go awry. Especially when Georgiana realizes that the couples she is trying to pair together are already known to each other and the abominable Bingley sisters show up and stir in some unpleasant drama.
I loved that this tale had two heartwarming and sweet romantic storylines. And I loved seeing Georgiana take such an active role in this premise. Her budding relationships with both Jane and Elizabeth Bennet and her confidence and comfort in herself was lovely to witness. And while I loved seeing both Darcy and Elizabeth happily seize this second chance to get things right between them, I really was drawn to Jane’s storyline in this tale and seeing her romance fully blossom. I may have preferred it over the Darcy and Elizabeth storyline just a smidge!. Jane’s hero is incredibly swoon-worthy. I loved the combination of a brawny and fearless man also being a determined yet sensitive suitor. And I love how they both were quick to recognize and appreciate each others’ worth.
Misguided matches and unexpected encounters bring about a charming and endearing tale about finding and seizing love in Christie Capps’s final Pride and Prejudice novella. The Matchmaker is a splendidly delightful Pride and Prejudice variation that brings our favorite characters together and grants them the happy futures they deserve! I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
August 14, 2021
The book starts with a frantic search for money. Georgiana Darcy is searching everywhere bag and piece of clothing to send an express to her cousin colonel Fitzwilliam summoning him to the Rose and Crown where she and her brother were staying until the carriage could be repaired. Georgiana thinking she found the perfect woman for her brother is hoping her cousin will help her with her plans for matchmaking.
Georgiana Darcy wants to help ease her brothers loneliness and believes Jane Gardiner would be perfect for him.
The gardens at the rose and crown are lovely and during a stroll Georgiana happens upon two sisters enjoying the beautiful gardens Jane and Elizabeth assuming they are the daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner puts her plan in place to pair the beautiful and serene Jane with her brother hoping to ease his unhappiness. Mr. Darcy assumes the girls his sister mentions Jane and Lizzy are about 10 years old but the memories of his Lizzy haunt him.
Georgiana thinks her plan is going to work but the fates keep intervening. First her cousin and brother enjoy each other’s company too much to stay at the inn to meet the misses Gardiner’s, the Bingley’s arrive uninvited and a week earlier than they were expected to travel. Caroline’s anger and stupidity overtake her and she insults Jane and Lizzy not only to their faces but then in the company of the Darcy’s. Events spiral out of control and Georgiana is feeling like a huge failure.
I really enjoyed this story. Georgianas’s perspective made me feel I understood her and what made her want to be with Mr. Wickham and her desire to help her brother find his perfect mate. When things start to unravel Georgiana begins to question her motives and begins to heal and understand herself more.
I laughed out loud more than once making my husband question me. This was such an enjoyable read without all the drama of Lydia and Wickham- Thank you.
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review.
Georgiana Darcy wants to help ease her brothers loneliness and believes Jane Gardiner would be perfect for him.
The gardens at the rose and crown are lovely and during a stroll Georgiana happens upon two sisters enjoying the beautiful gardens Jane and Elizabeth assuming they are the daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner puts her plan in place to pair the beautiful and serene Jane with her brother hoping to ease his unhappiness. Mr. Darcy assumes the girls his sister mentions Jane and Lizzy are about 10 years old but the memories of his Lizzy haunt him.
Georgiana thinks her plan is going to work but the fates keep intervening. First her cousin and brother enjoy each other’s company too much to stay at the inn to meet the misses Gardiner’s, the Bingley’s arrive uninvited and a week earlier than they were expected to travel. Caroline’s anger and stupidity overtake her and she insults Jane and Lizzy not only to their faces but then in the company of the Darcy’s. Events spiral out of control and Georgiana is feeling like a huge failure.
I really enjoyed this story. Georgianas’s perspective made me feel I understood her and what made her want to be with Mr. Wickham and her desire to help her brother find his perfect mate. When things start to unravel Georgiana begins to question her motives and begins to heal and understand herself more.
I laughed out loud more than once making my husband question me. This was such an enjoyable read without all the drama of Lydia and Wickham- Thank you.
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review.
December 23, 2021
A wonderful story that has had be grinning from ear to ear while reading. Georgiana thinks she has found the perfect matches for her brother and the Colonel. The story begins at the Rose and Crown Inn. Darcy’s carriage has suffered a break in the axle and they must stay for a few days before continuing to Pemberley. The Gardiner’s are also staying at the Inn with their two nieces, Jane and Elizabeth. Georgiana meets Jane and Elizabeth and immediately likes them and wants to Set them up with the Colonel and Darcy. Unknowing to Georgiana, Darcy has been trying to get over being heartbroken by Elizabeth. Elizabeth now realizes her feeling for Darcy and yearns to tell him she has made a mistake and loves him. Jane is also suffering from being left by Bingley. Georgiana thinks Jane will be perfect for Darcy and Elizabeth will be perfect for the Colonel. Bingley and his sisters make a short appearance in this story. Jane walks late in the evening when it starts raining does not return to the Inn. I search party is formed and the Colonel find Jane cold with a swollen ankle. The Colonel is taken back by Jane’s beauty. Darcy and Elizabeth meet again and do not hold their feeling back. Georgiana is wrong with her matching. I enjoyed this story and will read again. I would recommend.
August 10, 2021
A sweet story, with Georgiana attempting to match-make her brother Darcy (with the wrong woman!)
Jane gets lost and amongst the drama, not only does ODC have the opportunity to meet again, but Jane a new suitor emerge (from meeting to proposal in 48 hrs!)
Bingley is finally schooled as to how badly his house is in chaos.
Georgiana's heart is in the right place, but boy does she get it all wrong.
Jane gets lost and amongst the drama, not only does ODC have the opportunity to meet again, but Jane a new suitor emerge (from meeting to proposal in 48 hrs!)
Bingley is finally schooled as to how badly his house is in chaos.
Georgiana's heart is in the right place, but boy does she get it all wrong.
September 13, 2021
Georgiana Darcy is determined to play matchmater to get her brother out of the blue mood he as been since returning home from his Easter trip to Rosings. A broken axel on the carriage puts her in the company of two lovely girls - Jane and Lizzy. Jane would be just perfect for Fitzwilliam! Her brother, Fitzwilliam Darcy, assumes that his sister met little girls and is very surprised to find it to be the woman he still dreams of (Elizabeth Bennet) and her sister. Those realizations don't even count as a spoiler as there are so many other misinterpreted situations!
It is a light fun read with a strong Jane and lots of happily ever after.
It is a light fun read with a strong Jane and lots of happily ever after.
September 6, 2021
3.5 stars rounded up. Cute, fun, and funny! This is certainly not perfect, but it was fun enough to make up for any inadequacies that might normally have bothered me. I can handle more flaws in stories that make me laugh, or provide me those little thrills of delight in a character or events. This one did all of those. I loved Georgiana Darcy in this, her naivete to begin with, and the growth she experienced watching others fall in love. This is short enough to read in one sitting, though for me it was a long sitting. Perfect for the end of a day when you really want something entertaining.
August 9, 2021
A Teenager in love with love
About two plus hours inside the love crazed mind of a teenage girl: adorable! Georgiana Darcy, having experienced a briefly tragic romance at the tender age of fifteen has determined herself to be a definitive authority on the subject; a subject certain to cure her much older brother of his mysterious melancholy. And of course, this being a P&P novella, circumstances arise where, unknown to the relevant parties, the Darcys and the Gardeners with favorite nieces in tow, are all stranded at the same roadside inn, disrupting their travels. Oh my! Who could have imagined such a happenstance would ever occur? There are a lot of fun misunderstandings, some lovely introspection on behalf of several characters and even a slight bit of frenzied angst. In the span of a novella, this one has it all.
About two plus hours inside the love crazed mind of a teenage girl: adorable! Georgiana Darcy, having experienced a briefly tragic romance at the tender age of fifteen has determined herself to be a definitive authority on the subject; a subject certain to cure her much older brother of his mysterious melancholy. And of course, this being a P&P novella, circumstances arise where, unknown to the relevant parties, the Darcys and the Gardeners with favorite nieces in tow, are all stranded at the same roadside inn, disrupting their travels. Oh my! Who could have imagined such a happenstance would ever occur? There are a lot of fun misunderstandings, some lovely introspection on behalf of several characters and even a slight bit of frenzied angst. In the span of a novella, this one has it all.
September 29, 2021
3.5 rounded up. I love this author and while this was an enjoyable story, it wasn't my favorite of hers.
This was a short, low angst story that was very sweet and romantic. I enjoyed it, although the speed at which the couples came together just stretched believability a bit too far.
This was a short, low angst story that was very sweet and romantic. I enjoyed it, although the speed at which the couples came together just stretched believability a bit too far.
May 22, 2022
3,5 rounded up to 4,
Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
I am a huge fan of Christie Capps novellas, and I still remember reading Mr. Darcy’s Bad Day shortly after it came out and talking about how I had found another new incredible author (little did I know she was the pen name of a well renown author), so I was super happy when I received The Matchmaker in the mail.
As all Christie Capps novellas, this is a sweet story that can be read in a couple of hours, which means I read it in one single sitting. In this story, Darcy and Georgiana are headed for Pemberley when they experience a carriage problem that forces them to stop at an inn while they wait for repairs. It is there that Miss Darcy makes the acquaintance of two other guests at the inn, Jane and Elizabeth Bennet, and starts thinking how well suited these ladies would be for her two guardians, but she is under the impression Jane would be perfect for Darcy and Elizabeth for Richard. You can already tell she isn’t very good at matchmaking can’t you?
The story progresses, and apart from the Colonel, Mr. Bingley and his sisters also join the other guests at the inn…you can see where this is going, right? This inn will be filled with characters from Pride and Prejudice, and the coziness of the setting along with all the dialogues and scenes that keep occurring make this a very fast paced and entertaining novel.
The Matchmaker is sweet, funny and well written, but I believe it was my least favourite novella from Christie Capps because of the tardiness and few Darcy/Elizabeth moments we have in it. In these short stories, I am always eager to see plenty of Darcy and Elizabeth, and with all the events taking place in this story we couldn’t have as much page time dedicated to these characters as I would have liked. Also, even if I loved the other romance in the book, the rescue scene and everything that followed was truly romantic, it also felt too sudden for me. I wish these events could have had more page time, or that maybe we could have two different novellas, each one dedicated to each couple.
Overall, this short story is a satisfying read and even if I’ve read other Christie Capps novellas I enjoyed more, I still recommend it to the busy reader with little time to escape this crazy world we live in.
Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
I am a huge fan of Christie Capps novellas, and I still remember reading Mr. Darcy’s Bad Day shortly after it came out and talking about how I had found another new incredible author (little did I know she was the pen name of a well renown author), so I was super happy when I received The Matchmaker in the mail.
As all Christie Capps novellas, this is a sweet story that can be read in a couple of hours, which means I read it in one single sitting. In this story, Darcy and Georgiana are headed for Pemberley when they experience a carriage problem that forces them to stop at an inn while they wait for repairs. It is there that Miss Darcy makes the acquaintance of two other guests at the inn, Jane and Elizabeth Bennet, and starts thinking how well suited these ladies would be for her two guardians, but she is under the impression Jane would be perfect for Darcy and Elizabeth for Richard. You can already tell she isn’t very good at matchmaking can’t you?
The story progresses, and apart from the Colonel, Mr. Bingley and his sisters also join the other guests at the inn…you can see where this is going, right? This inn will be filled with characters from Pride and Prejudice, and the coziness of the setting along with all the dialogues and scenes that keep occurring make this a very fast paced and entertaining novel.
The Matchmaker is sweet, funny and well written, but I believe it was my least favourite novella from Christie Capps because of the tardiness and few Darcy/Elizabeth moments we have in it. In these short stories, I am always eager to see plenty of Darcy and Elizabeth, and with all the events taking place in this story we couldn’t have as much page time dedicated to these characters as I would have liked. Also, even if I loved the other romance in the book, the rescue scene and everything that followed was truly romantic, it also felt too sudden for me. I wish these events could have had more page time, or that maybe we could have two different novellas, each one dedicated to each couple.
Overall, this short story is a satisfying read and even if I’ve read other Christie Capps novellas I enjoyed more, I still recommend it to the busy reader with little time to escape this crazy world we live in.
September 2, 2021
This story is adorable, the plot is perfect, the pace is perfect. It's like a 30 minute sit-com with snap, snap, scenes. The beginning where you have the 'oh no she didn't' moment (which continues even to its laughable end.) The middle where an actual conflict begins and the near tragic consequences of such. Holy cow!! it was jaw dropping to hear what Caroline spewed forth when she thought no one important was listening. And then the rollicking, fun! tying up the happiness of two couples. And instead of the matchmaker á la Emma, our dear little Georgie hangs up her matchmaking ambitions permanently.
Christie Capps ends her reported short story style pen name retirement with a perfect series finale. I will miss looking forward to new ones, but I have so many beloved C.C. stories to reread and re-listen to. Thank you Christie/Joy. I can't wait to read what you'll bring to us next.
Christie Capps ends her reported short story style pen name retirement with a perfect series finale. I will miss looking forward to new ones, but I have so many beloved C.C. stories to reread and re-listen to. Thank you Christie/Joy. I can't wait to read what you'll bring to us next.
August 26, 2021
Short & Sweet
This was a cute, sweet and short story. I enjoyed the different spin on Jane's story. I had always liked Colonel Fitzwilliam.
This was a cute, sweet and short story. I enjoyed the different spin on Jane's story. I had always liked Colonel Fitzwilliam.
September 16, 2021
A cute rom com
I liked that colonel fitzwilliam gets Jane. Bingley never did deserve her. And I like that Lizzy and Darcy meet sonner and are able to come together.
I liked that colonel fitzwilliam gets Jane. Bingley never did deserve her. And I like that Lizzy and Darcy meet sonner and are able to come together.
October 2, 2025
I can appreciate the criticism of Mr. Bingley to a certain extent, but I find this to be excessive. Yes he's flawed and needs to stand up for himself and the things important to him, but the OG P&P literally describes his low self esteem but also his anger at being deceived by his friends. His leave of Netherfield (and his assumption Jane doesn't love him) was specifically orchestrated by the people closest to him who knew how to convince him, using his insecurities against him. I hardly think he committed an unforgivable sin. Of course within the story of this book he makes other mistakes which Jane would be right to hate him for, but I find these plot points to be very out of character for Bingley and not fitting within the narrative of the novella.
The story itself didn't flow very well for me either and I found Georgiana's reasoning for matchmaking (if we can call it that, she didn't actually do much) the specific couples to be quite lacking. Things seem to only happen because the narrative commands it rather than flowing from the wants and needs of the actual characters.
I know this is a short (and probably hastily written, as can be assumed from the Author's note) story so there's not much room to flesh things out, but one needs to carefully consider which aspects they want to include in their story, especially when having a page limit in mind.
The story itself didn't flow very well for me either and I found Georgiana's reasoning for matchmaking (if we can call it that, she didn't actually do much) the specific couples to be quite lacking. Things seem to only happen because the narrative commands it rather than flowing from the wants and needs of the actual characters.
I know this is a short (and probably hastily written, as can be assumed from the Author's note) story so there's not much room to flesh things out, but one needs to carefully consider which aspects they want to include in their story, especially when having a page limit in mind.
August 6, 2021
Why long books???
There is a German proverb: “In der Kürze liegt die Würze» what means «shortness brings spice”.
And this novel has all the needed spices to make a perfect dish. Cleverness and excellent writing as the foundation, then as spices a sweet plot – sweet misunderstandings – humour – low angst – villains – a reformed weakling – romance – heroines, the one on the cover with the determined face is one of them – and of course selfless heroes.
So take your time for some pleasant and heart-warming hours and the famous cup of tea or a glass of brandy 😊
There is a German proverb: “In der Kürze liegt die Würze» what means «shortness brings spice”.
And this novel has all the needed spices to make a perfect dish. Cleverness and excellent writing as the foundation, then as spices a sweet plot – sweet misunderstandings – humour – low angst – villains – a reformed weakling – romance – heroines, the one on the cover with the determined face is one of them – and of course selfless heroes.
So take your time for some pleasant and heart-warming hours and the famous cup of tea or a glass of brandy 😊
September 3, 2021
2.5 stars
This was short, and fairly sweet, but while I didn’t hate the Colonel Fitzwilliam/Jane pairing, I didn’t think Bingley was dealt with in away that was true to his character.
Everything else was rather meh for me.
This was short, and fairly sweet, but while I didn’t hate the Colonel Fitzwilliam/Jane pairing, I didn’t think Bingley was dealt with in away that was true to his character.
Everything else was rather meh for me.
August 7, 2021
This is very sweet, a little rushed.
August 7, 2021
I truly adored this P & P variation
story! It's a charming, moving
& intriguing book. For everyone
who believes in true love.
Wonderfully written characters.
I loved it from the first page
to the last. A Must Read!!
story! It's a charming, moving
& intriguing book. For everyone
who believes in true love.
Wonderfully written characters.
I loved it from the first page
to the last. A Must Read!!
December 29, 2023
Georgiana has not a clue
Lovely story where ODC have to work a bit.
I like Georgiana but she is too innocent and naive to get to know what a person needs in a partner.
4.5 stars
Lovely story where ODC have to work a bit.
I like Georgiana but she is too innocent and naive to get to know what a person needs in a partner.
4.5 stars
September 28, 2021
Just perfect. Funny, sweet, exciting, lovely book. Can’t wait to read Christie Capp’s other novellas.
September 16, 2021
Relax, Georgie’s got this!
A sweet, heartfelt gem of a story to envelope yourself in and allow the world to be, for a delightful moment, just as it should. Georgiana is quite pleased with her matchmaking abilities - if her targets would just cooperate! With humor and a lovely dose of romantic heat, Ms. Capps brings you into the world of P&P with some satisfying twists of her own. A quick, engaging read!
A sweet, heartfelt gem of a story to envelope yourself in and allow the world to be, for a delightful moment, just as it should. Georgiana is quite pleased with her matchmaking abilities - if her targets would just cooperate! With humor and a lovely dose of romantic heat, Ms. Capps brings you into the world of P&P with some satisfying twists of her own. A quick, engaging read!
September 17, 2021
So original!
It is so nice to find an original story, especially when all one reads are P&P variations. I did not want to put this one down.
It is so nice to find an original story, especially when all one reads are P&P variations. I did not want to put this one down.
August 20, 2021
Who can resist Christie Capps?
Another rollicking good time from this author. She has become an "automatic purchase" as the short stories are always fun and heartwarming, low angst and uplifting. I like this book in spite of a very absurd and contrived premise, namely that Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Georgiana are all stuck at an inn because of a broken axle on their carriage, at the same time that Elizabeth and Jane, along with their aunt and uncle Gardiner, are delayed at the same inn due to Mrs Gardiner's morning sickness. Then, Bingley, Caroline, and Mr and Mrs Hurst show up, too, just to make it even more ridiculous.
However, that seems to be intentional in these delicious little stories, and you have to be willing to just go with the silliness and have fun. The matchmaker of the title is Georgiana, and she's terrible at it, but nobody minds. The romance is lovely and the correct couples form. There is a very satisfying reckoning for Bingley, which I appreciate, and Jane grows a backbone, which I also like.
The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
Another rollicking good time from this author. She has become an "automatic purchase" as the short stories are always fun and heartwarming, low angst and uplifting. I like this book in spite of a very absurd and contrived premise, namely that Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Georgiana are all stuck at an inn because of a broken axle on their carriage, at the same time that Elizabeth and Jane, along with their aunt and uncle Gardiner, are delayed at the same inn due to Mrs Gardiner's morning sickness. Then, Bingley, Caroline, and Mr and Mrs Hurst show up, too, just to make it even more ridiculous.
However, that seems to be intentional in these delicious little stories, and you have to be willing to just go with the silliness and have fun. The matchmaker of the title is Georgiana, and she's terrible at it, but nobody minds. The romance is lovely and the correct couples form. There is a very satisfying reckoning for Bingley, which I appreciate, and Jane grows a backbone, which I also like.
The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
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