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'Tis the Season Collection
Heart Enough: Variations on a Jane Austen Christmas
There are very few of us who have heart enough to be really in love without encouragement.
ELIZABETH BENNET NEVER IMAGINED that by appeasing Mr Darcy’s aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, she would permanently injure the gentleman’s feelings, but so it was. Robbing him of all hope towards her, he impulsively proposes to his cousin Anne, finding out just weeks later that Elizabeth did, in fact, have tender regard for him.
DISTRESSED BY THE KNOWLEDGE that misunderstandings have once again thwarted them, Elizabeth flees to the Continent to forget him. Returning two years later, she is more confident, more worldly, and alas, every bit as in love with him as she ever was. She resolves to offer him her friendship, believing him married, perhaps with children.
BUT CIRCUMSTANCES HAVE CHANGED for Mr Darcy. Will they have heart enough to learn the truth from one another or will misunderstandings defeat them once more?
ELIZABETH BENNET NEVER IMAGINED that by appeasing Mr Darcy’s aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, she would permanently injure the gentleman’s feelings, but so it was. Robbing him of all hope towards her, he impulsively proposes to his cousin Anne, finding out just weeks later that Elizabeth did, in fact, have tender regard for him.
DISTRESSED BY THE KNOWLEDGE that misunderstandings have once again thwarted them, Elizabeth flees to the Continent to forget him. Returning two years later, she is more confident, more worldly, and alas, every bit as in love with him as she ever was. She resolves to offer him her friendship, believing him married, perhaps with children.
BUT CIRCUMSTANCES HAVE CHANGED for Mr Darcy. Will they have heart enough to learn the truth from one another or will misunderstandings defeat them once more?
98 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2021
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January 1, 2026
Ephemeral, eternal heart! ~ Emily Dickinson, 1885
Confession: I read a lot of Pride & Prejudice fan fiction.
A whole lot. Daily.
One of my least liked themes is the endless misunderstandings Our Dear Couple must wade through to cross the river to Happy Ever After. I so often think, “If only these people would talk to each other — five minutes would do it.”
Jane Austen herself gave us the clue to eliminate the misunderstandings: “There are very few of us who have heart enough to be really in love without encouragement.”
So, how much heart is enough? Is the “heart enough” to come from Elizabeth Bennet? Or should the “heart enough” originate with Fitzwilliam Darcy?
I am looking your heart in the eye! ~ Emily Dickinson, 1861
“Heart Enough” begins with the planning for Jane Bennet’s wedding to Charles Bingley. Darcy has not proposed and is not currently in Meryton. Jane and Elizabeth have a heart to heart and Elizabeth recounts Lady Catherine’s visit to Longbourn. Elizabeth has not spoken as strongly to the lady as in canon and in fact, she downplays the importance of her interactions with Darcy, including not revealing her feelings or intentions.
Quote from the book: “I did not wish to vex her, vexatious as she was. For Mr. Darcy’s sake, it seemed most prudent to retain her good opinion of me, inasmuch as I could, and I believe she went away satisfied.”
When Darcy arrives for the wedding, his interaction with Elizabeth is strained and silent and he departs early to London. Jane takes the time from her wedding to give Elizabeth the news she has learned: Darcy has proposed to Anne de Bourgh!
Quote from the book: And now my courage and I are alone and unloved.
...the heart is full — another throb would split it... ~ Emily Dickinson, 1881
After Christmas, Elizabeth travels to London to stay with the Gardiners. She meets Aunt Gardiner’s friend, Lady Berkeley, who is planning a trip to Italy. Elizabeth goes with her as a companion.
Christmas follows Christmas, and at last, Elizabeth returns to London, determined to forget the past.
Do the Darcys have any children?
What has happened at Pemberley?
Does Elizabeth have a suitor as the rumors claim?
Does Elizabeth have heart enough to make the change she needs?
The heart wants what it wants, or else it does not care. ~ Emily Dickinson, 1862
“Heart Enough” is part of the “Tis the Season” collection from Quills and Quartos. It will tug at your own heart — if you have heart enough!
Since I have no sweet flower to send you, I enclose my heart. ~ Emily Dickinson
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Confession: I read a lot of Pride & Prejudice fan fiction.
A whole lot. Daily.
One of my least liked themes is the endless misunderstandings Our Dear Couple must wade through to cross the river to Happy Ever After. I so often think, “If only these people would talk to each other — five minutes would do it.”
Jane Austen herself gave us the clue to eliminate the misunderstandings: “There are very few of us who have heart enough to be really in love without encouragement.”
So, how much heart is enough? Is the “heart enough” to come from Elizabeth Bennet? Or should the “heart enough” originate with Fitzwilliam Darcy?
I am looking your heart in the eye! ~ Emily Dickinson, 1861
“Heart Enough” begins with the planning for Jane Bennet’s wedding to Charles Bingley. Darcy has not proposed and is not currently in Meryton. Jane and Elizabeth have a heart to heart and Elizabeth recounts Lady Catherine’s visit to Longbourn. Elizabeth has not spoken as strongly to the lady as in canon and in fact, she downplays the importance of her interactions with Darcy, including not revealing her feelings or intentions.
Quote from the book: “I did not wish to vex her, vexatious as she was. For Mr. Darcy’s sake, it seemed most prudent to retain her good opinion of me, inasmuch as I could, and I believe she went away satisfied.”
When Darcy arrives for the wedding, his interaction with Elizabeth is strained and silent and he departs early to London. Jane takes the time from her wedding to give Elizabeth the news she has learned: Darcy has proposed to Anne de Bourgh!
Quote from the book: And now my courage and I are alone and unloved.
...the heart is full — another throb would split it... ~ Emily Dickinson, 1881
After Christmas, Elizabeth travels to London to stay with the Gardiners. She meets Aunt Gardiner’s friend, Lady Berkeley, who is planning a trip to Italy. Elizabeth goes with her as a companion.
Christmas follows Christmas, and at last, Elizabeth returns to London, determined to forget the past.
Do the Darcys have any children?
What has happened at Pemberley?
Does Elizabeth have a suitor as the rumors claim?
Does Elizabeth have heart enough to make the change she needs?
The heart wants what it wants, or else it does not care. ~ Emily Dickinson, 1862
“Heart Enough” is part of the “Tis the Season” collection from Quills and Quartos. It will tug at your own heart — if you have heart enough!
Since I have no sweet flower to send you, I enclose my heart. ~ Emily Dickinson
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 8, 2023
I am constantly awed and amazed by this author's ability with words to create a vivid picture and depict the complex emotions of the characters.
Elizabeth is in love with Darcy, but it is too late. He is now betrothed to his cousin Anne! And it is all her fault. Her courage abandoned her in the face of Lady C.
In all her pain and despair, she grabs the opportunity to travel the continent to escape her deep emotions.
Fast forward 2 years and she is back in England. Jane is adamant about introducing Elizabeth to appropriate suitors. However, all it took was one meeting with Darcy for Elizabeth to realize she is as much in love with him as ever.
This stronger woman, following her trip to Italy, believes she and Darcy can be friends despite everything.
The epilogue is quite interesting and different as well.
Another beautiful story by this talented writer.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Elizabeth is in love with Darcy, but it is too late. He is now betrothed to his cousin Anne! And it is all her fault. Her courage abandoned her in the face of Lady C.
In all her pain and despair, she grabs the opportunity to travel the continent to escape her deep emotions.
Fast forward 2 years and she is back in England. Jane is adamant about introducing Elizabeth to appropriate suitors. However, all it took was one meeting with Darcy for Elizabeth to realize she is as much in love with him as ever.
This stronger woman, following her trip to Italy, believes she and Darcy can be friends despite everything.
The epilogue is quite interesting and different as well.
Another beautiful story by this talented writer.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my review.
October 29, 2021
I did not receive an ARC but, instead, borrowed the Kindle version of this story from KU. I have enjoyed this author's stories; all of which have rated 5 stars from me.
The blurb sets this up for us very well. Elizabeth going to Italy with an older friend of the Gardners for about a year and a half, only returning under the belief that now Darcy has been married for quite some time and so she can offer him nothing but friendship. Darcy, in hearing that offer is dismayed. He hoped that her words about how her feelings had changed prior to her trip abroad were still in force.
So again we have ODC misunderstanding each other. When Elizabeth asks Jane why she didn't write about the changes in Darcy's life, Jane reminds her that she demanded that Jane not mention anything about him as Elizabeth was attempting to get on with her life in the belief he had moved on in his.
Excellent story, short and sweet. Drew me in immediately.
The blurb sets this up for us very well. Elizabeth going to Italy with an older friend of the Gardners for about a year and a half, only returning under the belief that now Darcy has been married for quite some time and so she can offer him nothing but friendship. Darcy, in hearing that offer is dismayed. He hoped that her words about how her feelings had changed prior to her trip abroad were still in force.
So again we have ODC misunderstanding each other. When Elizabeth asks Jane why she didn't write about the changes in Darcy's life, Jane reminds her that she demanded that Jane not mention anything about him as Elizabeth was attempting to get on with her life in the belief he had moved on in his.
Excellent story, short and sweet. Drew me in immediately.
October 25, 2021
This is a Pride and Prejudice variation where problems arise between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth due to misunderstandings and poor timing.
The backstory here leaves the canon plot intact with one significant difference: When Elizabeth was confronted about her rumored betrothal to Mr. Darcy by Lady Catherine, she was conciliatory rather than impertinent, not wanting his aunt to give him more reason to think ill of her or her family. Appeased, Lady Catherine was satisfied that there was nothing of significance between her nephew and Miss Bennet.
As this story begins, Elizabeth's sister Jane is happily planning her Christmastime wedding to Mr. Bingley. Though Elizabeth is pleased for them, she's miserable over Mr. Darcy's continued absence. She resolves to tell him her true feelings when he comes for the wedding. Instead, she's devastated to learn he's now betrothed to Anne de Bourgh.
Longbourn becomes intolerable once Jane isn't living there. Although the Bingleys urge her to take up residence with them, Elizabeth knows she would not be able to handle seeing Darcy, Mr. Bingley's best friend, once he's married, and she doesn't want to disrupt their friendship.
Instead, she seizes an opportunity to join the elderly Lady Berkeley, a friend of the Gardiners, on a trip to the Continent. They don't return to England for two years - in time for another Christmas. By this time, Elizabeth hopes she's finally able to encounter Mr. Darcy with equanimity now that she's older, wiser, and more sophisticated.
This is a beautifully written alternate path P&P story with a Christmas-centered plot. There are very few authors who can match Ms. D'Orazio's ability to engage her readers emotions, as she continues to prove in this angst-y novella. Just like the original P&P, the point of view is limited to Elizabeth's, and we feel all of her anguish over losing Mr. Darcy. Naturally, things eventually lead to a wonderfully gratifying Happily Ever After, with plenty of joyful celebration at the end.
Content is clean.
I received a free copy of the book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The backstory here leaves the canon plot intact with one significant difference: When Elizabeth was confronted about her rumored betrothal to Mr. Darcy by Lady Catherine, she was conciliatory rather than impertinent, not wanting his aunt to give him more reason to think ill of her or her family. Appeased, Lady Catherine was satisfied that there was nothing of significance between her nephew and Miss Bennet.
As this story begins, Elizabeth's sister Jane is happily planning her Christmastime wedding to Mr. Bingley. Though Elizabeth is pleased for them, she's miserable over Mr. Darcy's continued absence. She resolves to tell him her true feelings when he comes for the wedding. Instead, she's devastated to learn he's now betrothed to Anne de Bourgh.
Longbourn becomes intolerable once Jane isn't living there. Although the Bingleys urge her to take up residence with them, Elizabeth knows she would not be able to handle seeing Darcy, Mr. Bingley's best friend, once he's married, and she doesn't want to disrupt their friendship.
Instead, she seizes an opportunity to join the elderly Lady Berkeley, a friend of the Gardiners, on a trip to the Continent. They don't return to England for two years - in time for another Christmas. By this time, Elizabeth hopes she's finally able to encounter Mr. Darcy with equanimity now that she's older, wiser, and more sophisticated.
This is a beautifully written alternate path P&P story with a Christmas-centered plot. There are very few authors who can match Ms. D'Orazio's ability to engage her readers emotions, as she continues to prove in this angst-y novella. Just like the original P&P, the point of view is limited to Elizabeth's, and we feel all of her anguish over losing Mr. Darcy. Naturally, things eventually lead to a wonderfully gratifying Happily Ever After, with plenty of joyful celebration at the end.
Content is clean.
I received a free copy of the book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 22, 2024
Excellent!
What if Elizabeth’s courage didn’t rise during Lady Catherine’s infamous visit to Longbourn, deciding instead not to be impertinent and vex Darcy’s relation. Oh Lizzy. When she eventually decides to speak to him, she learns he has become engaged to Anne de Bourgh. He had thought she no longer cared for him. Too late, she is now left alone with her broken heart.
“Indeed, the nearest she came to enjoying Christmas was the day when she sat at Oakham Mount, utterly alone and gazing at nothing.”—quote from book
Invited to London, she meets her Aunt Gardiner’s friend, Lady Berkeley, who affords Elizabeth the opportunity to travel to the Continent and, hopefully recover from her disappointed hopes.
“Mr Darcy has done me a favour. He has broken my heart, but from that broken heart emerged a new mind. Marriage is not all there is for me. I shall go off and feast from the table of the world.”—quote from book
Upon her return to England over a year later she finds herself still in love with Darcy, but one more misunderstanding remains to be resolved after a conversation with Caroline of all people! Will she have “heart enough” to do it?
First, I absolutely love the title of this brilliantly-written novella. It is told primarily from Elizabeth’s point of view and draws your attention right at the start and follows through until the epilogue, which features excerpts from Darcy’s diary. There is a scene between them just before Elizabeth leaves for Italy that left me in tears. Oh my heart. Ms. D’Orazio has a talent for creating unique characters and, in this story, the entertaining Mr. Dillard is featured.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am happy to recommend it. Heart Enough is part of the ‘Tis the Season Collection from Quills & Quartos Publishing. Well done!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What if Elizabeth’s courage didn’t rise during Lady Catherine’s infamous visit to Longbourn, deciding instead not to be impertinent and vex Darcy’s relation. Oh Lizzy. When she eventually decides to speak to him, she learns he has become engaged to Anne de Bourgh. He had thought she no longer cared for him. Too late, she is now left alone with her broken heart.
“Indeed, the nearest she came to enjoying Christmas was the day when she sat at Oakham Mount, utterly alone and gazing at nothing.”—quote from book
Invited to London, she meets her Aunt Gardiner’s friend, Lady Berkeley, who affords Elizabeth the opportunity to travel to the Continent and, hopefully recover from her disappointed hopes.
“Mr Darcy has done me a favour. He has broken my heart, but from that broken heart emerged a new mind. Marriage is not all there is for me. I shall go off and feast from the table of the world.”—quote from book
Upon her return to England over a year later she finds herself still in love with Darcy, but one more misunderstanding remains to be resolved after a conversation with Caroline of all people! Will she have “heart enough” to do it?
First, I absolutely love the title of this brilliantly-written novella. It is told primarily from Elizabeth’s point of view and draws your attention right at the start and follows through until the epilogue, which features excerpts from Darcy’s diary. There is a scene between them just before Elizabeth leaves for Italy that left me in tears. Oh my heart. Ms. D’Orazio has a talent for creating unique characters and, in this story, the entertaining Mr. Dillard is featured.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am happy to recommend it. Heart Enough is part of the ‘Tis the Season Collection from Quills & Quartos Publishing. Well done!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 29, 2021
[ARC] Heart Enough: Amy D’Orazio: 5-stars [10-23-21]
“There are very few of us who have heart enough to be really in love without encouragement.” –Jane Austen Pride & Prejudice Volume I, Chapter VI
Rating: Clean: 8-chapters + an epilogue [yearly Christmas entries from Darcy’s diary]. Angst Level: low-to-medium: due to the lover’s angst in which our author excels. Thank goodness, she tempered it so it was not unbearable. Because it was a novella, the misunderstandings were short-lived. Whew! I don’t think I could have stood an extended grief fest between our dear couple. Source: ARC from the publisher with no expectations of a review. The views expressed are my own. Trope: Seasonal: Christmas. This was part of the Quills & Quartos Publishing ‘Tis the Season Collection: Variations on a Jane Austen Christmas. Note: I have since purchased a copy for my personal library.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
“They were the victims of the most wretched perversion of circumstance.” Quote from the book
Personally, I didn’t know if I had heart enough to read this novella. Amy D’Orazio has torn my heart out with past stories and I wasn’t looking forward to repeating the experience. However, I love her work and decided to give her what was left of the organ that rests within my chest. I was not sorry I took the chance.
Amy took a very pivotal point in the love story arc in P&P. In Austen’s canon account, Lady Catherine’s visit to Elizabeth Bennet gave Darcy the hope and courage he needed in order to return to Hertfordshire. Without that hope… all was lost. He would not return to Hertfordshire. I didn’t realize just how important that piece of the puzzle was until it was no longer there.
Despite the tensions, grief, and misunderstandings, our dear couple managed to get together. I caught myself smiling and couldn’t stop. We also had limited interactions with the Bennet clan. I enjoy stories where Mrs. Bennet is in the background. Enough information was given to let us know who was doing what and where everyone was. That’s what amazes me about Amy’s writing style. They were there but they weren’t obvious. I liked that. I highly recommend this for a feel-good [once they clear the air] love story with a happy ending. Heavy sigh. The declarations will melt your heart. Oh, my; I need my salts.
“There are very few of us who have heart enough to be really in love without encouragement.” –Jane Austen Pride & Prejudice Volume I, Chapter VI
Rating: Clean: 8-chapters + an epilogue [yearly Christmas entries from Darcy’s diary]. Angst Level: low-to-medium: due to the lover’s angst in which our author excels. Thank goodness, she tempered it so it was not unbearable. Because it was a novella, the misunderstandings were short-lived. Whew! I don’t think I could have stood an extended grief fest between our dear couple. Source: ARC from the publisher with no expectations of a review. The views expressed are my own. Trope: Seasonal: Christmas. This was part of the Quills & Quartos Publishing ‘Tis the Season Collection: Variations on a Jane Austen Christmas. Note: I have since purchased a copy for my personal library.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
“They were the victims of the most wretched perversion of circumstance.” Quote from the book
Personally, I didn’t know if I had heart enough to read this novella. Amy D’Orazio has torn my heart out with past stories and I wasn’t looking forward to repeating the experience. However, I love her work and decided to give her what was left of the organ that rests within my chest. I was not sorry I took the chance.
Amy took a very pivotal point in the love story arc in P&P. In Austen’s canon account, Lady Catherine’s visit to Elizabeth Bennet gave Darcy the hope and courage he needed in order to return to Hertfordshire. Without that hope… all was lost. He would not return to Hertfordshire. I didn’t realize just how important that piece of the puzzle was until it was no longer there.
Despite the tensions, grief, and misunderstandings, our dear couple managed to get together. I caught myself smiling and couldn’t stop. We also had limited interactions with the Bennet clan. I enjoy stories where Mrs. Bennet is in the background. Enough information was given to let us know who was doing what and where everyone was. That’s what amazes me about Amy’s writing style. They were there but they weren’t obvious. I liked that. I highly recommend this for a feel-good [once they clear the air] love story with a happy ending. Heavy sigh. The declarations will melt your heart. Oh, my; I need my salts.
October 25, 2021
Darcy is given no encouragement
When Lady Cat visits Longbourn Lizzy’s conversation with her is slightly different. She doesn’t tell Lady Cat she refuses to promise she won’t accept a proposal. Consequently Lady Cat gives no hope to Darcy. Despondent, Darcy proposes to Anne.
The rest of the story proceeds. I enjoyed it a great deal. Lizzy isn’t a shrew and Darcy isn’t a fool, well not a constant one.
Good read.
When Lady Cat visits Longbourn Lizzy’s conversation with her is slightly different. She doesn’t tell Lady Cat she refuses to promise she won’t accept a proposal. Consequently Lady Cat gives no hope to Darcy. Despondent, Darcy proposes to Anne.
The rest of the story proceeds. I enjoyed it a great deal. Lizzy isn’t a shrew and Darcy isn’t a fool, well not a constant one.
Good read.
October 30, 2021
This author has such a talent for tugging at my heart strings. Right from the start I felt all the despair and anguish as if it was my heart that had been broken. This was short but beautifully written and I felt everything from pain to anger to hope to relief and finally a swoon worthy moment of reckoning that leads to the HEA. My only struggle was robbing our beloved Elizabeth Bennet of her courage and confidence by her cowering to Lady Catherine in the way that she did. Since that was the foundation that this story sits on, I guess it was necessary, but it was still a contradiction that is hard to reconcile. Other than that, I really enjoyed this and consider it a short and sweet indulgence from one of my favorite JAFF authors!
November 30, 2021
I’m really enjoying these P&P Christmas novellas. This story supposes that Elizabeth did not speak to offend Lady Catherine when she visited Longbourn to refute rumors of the supposed engagement. Consequently, Darcy is never taught to hope and instead engages himself to Anne. Elizabeth, now crossed in love, cannot stand by and watch the man she loves marry another. Instead, she travels to Italy with one of Mrs Gardiner’s friends. She is gone for two years and when she returns she assumes that Darcy is married. There are plenty of misunderstandings in this one but it’s a very engaging and well written story.
From the book: The words of Charlotte Lucas from years past echoed within her mind. ‘There are very few of us who have heart enough to be really in love without encouragement.’
From the book: The words of Charlotte Lucas from years past echoed within her mind. ‘There are very few of us who have heart enough to be really in love without encouragement.’
November 23, 2021
On a gloomy rainy November day this book was a delicious treat!
It is months after the Netherfield Ball and Darcy’s rapid departure,
It is the day before Jane’s wedding to Mr. Bingley.
Elizabeth has found that she cannot keep Darcy out of her mind!! Finally she has admitted to herself that she has wrongly judged his character and is tortured by the realization of her changed feelings.
But her chance to capture his affection may have passed her by. She is more than envious of her sister’s happy day.
It should be her wedding day!
She recalls all that passed between them as she sits alone by her window.
A Darcy proposal is alluded to though when it occurred is not mentioned nor any details.
Elizabeth briefly remembers Lady Catherine’s visit and her denial of an engagement to Darcy. But she thought he would prefer her response.
Eventually she learns her error ….
Indeed a series of misunderstandings sideline this fated romance.
Soon Jane reveals Darcy’s engagement to his cousin Anne, and Elizabeth is completely devastated! She realizes immediately she cannot bear to see Darcy with Anne!
But with Bingley wed to her sister she will undoubtedly be forced into the Darcy's company.
Soon after the wedding she goes to London to stay with her Aunt and Uncle. Not long after she is off to Italy for two years, via a friend of the Gardeners.
She returns a cultured savvy new Elizabeth but still very regretful of the loss of Darcy.
Going back to Hertfordshire means she will surely see Darcy and Anne together. The very reason she left England!
But she has no choice and must eventually face her fears.
Several awkward interactions between them do nothing to provide emotional clarity for either. Especially awkward when asking a man you secretly love to be your friend! Darcy still has unresolved feelings for Elizabeth and is not interested in her proposal of friendship!
I usually hate Lizzy having any conversations with Caroline Bingley but this one would prove extremely rewarding!
Lizzy is getting ready for a holiday party in her room at Bingley's townhouse, Caroline invites herself into Elizabeth's room and starts sampling her perfume. But Elizabeth doesn't let anything Caroline says or does bother her, even as her very wardrobe is enviously examined!
But when Caroline reveals Darcy never married Anne, a stunned Elizabeth bolts out the door leaving Bingley's sister gaping in shock.
It's now or never!
The scene of Elizabeth boldly running out into the frigid December rain looking for her chance to find her Pemberley Prince made many hearts flutter.
Mine included!
At last he spies her from his carriage and calls her name as she runs soaking wet frantically looking for Him!!
“With a cry of feral animal relief, Elizabeth clambered into the carriage, the astonished coachman recovering his wits barely in time to reach a useless hand towards her.” Quote from book.
The aftermath was one of the most romantic scenes I have ever read in a P & P variation. Which made for an ideal ending:)
Amy D'Orazio has outdone herself once again!
It is months after the Netherfield Ball and Darcy’s rapid departure,
It is the day before Jane’s wedding to Mr. Bingley.
Elizabeth has found that she cannot keep Darcy out of her mind!! Finally she has admitted to herself that she has wrongly judged his character and is tortured by the realization of her changed feelings.
But her chance to capture his affection may have passed her by. She is more than envious of her sister’s happy day.
It should be her wedding day!
She recalls all that passed between them as she sits alone by her window.
A Darcy proposal is alluded to though when it occurred is not mentioned nor any details.
Elizabeth briefly remembers Lady Catherine’s visit and her denial of an engagement to Darcy. But she thought he would prefer her response.
Eventually she learns her error ….
Indeed a series of misunderstandings sideline this fated romance.
Soon Jane reveals Darcy’s engagement to his cousin Anne, and Elizabeth is completely devastated! She realizes immediately she cannot bear to see Darcy with Anne!
But with Bingley wed to her sister she will undoubtedly be forced into the Darcy's company.
Soon after the wedding she goes to London to stay with her Aunt and Uncle. Not long after she is off to Italy for two years, via a friend of the Gardeners.
She returns a cultured savvy new Elizabeth but still very regretful of the loss of Darcy.
Going back to Hertfordshire means she will surely see Darcy and Anne together. The very reason she left England!
But she has no choice and must eventually face her fears.
Several awkward interactions between them do nothing to provide emotional clarity for either. Especially awkward when asking a man you secretly love to be your friend! Darcy still has unresolved feelings for Elizabeth and is not interested in her proposal of friendship!
I usually hate Lizzy having any conversations with Caroline Bingley but this one would prove extremely rewarding!
Lizzy is getting ready for a holiday party in her room at Bingley's townhouse, Caroline invites herself into Elizabeth's room and starts sampling her perfume. But Elizabeth doesn't let anything Caroline says or does bother her, even as her very wardrobe is enviously examined!
But when Caroline reveals Darcy never married Anne, a stunned Elizabeth bolts out the door leaving Bingley's sister gaping in shock.
It's now or never!
The scene of Elizabeth boldly running out into the frigid December rain looking for her chance to find her Pemberley Prince made many hearts flutter.
Mine included!
At last he spies her from his carriage and calls her name as she runs soaking wet frantically looking for Him!!
“With a cry of feral animal relief, Elizabeth clambered into the carriage, the astonished coachman recovering his wits barely in time to reach a useless hand towards her.” Quote from book.
The aftermath was one of the most romantic scenes I have ever read in a P & P variation. Which made for an ideal ending:)
Amy D'Orazio has outdone herself once again!
March 9, 2023
Status: Read November 17th, 2021
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Library Notes:
Heart Enough ('Tis the Season Collection)
by Amy D'Orazio
Kindle Edition, 98 pages
Published October 25th, 2021 by Quills & Quartos Publishing
ASIN: B09H4YNHQ8
[ kindle doc ~ giveaway winner ] [ kindle ~ kindle freebie ]
There are very few of us who have heart enough to be really in love without encouragement.
ELIZABETH BENNET NEVER IMAGINED that by appeasing Mr Darcy’s aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, she would permanently injure the gentleman’s feelings, but so it was. Robbing him of all hope towards her, he impulsively proposes to his cousin Anne, finding out just weeks later that Elizabeth did, in fact, have tender regard for him.
DISTRESSED BY THE KNOWLEDGE that misunderstandings have once again thwarted them, Elizabeth flees to the Continent to forget him. Returning two years later, she is more confident, more worldly, and alas, every bit as in love with him as she ever was. She resolves to offer him her friendship, believing him married, perhaps with children.
BUT CIRCUMSTANCES HAVE CHANGED for Mr Darcy. Will they have heart enough to learn the truth from one another or will misunderstandings defeat them once more?
HEART ENOUGH is a novella length Pride & Prejudice variation.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Library Notes:
Heart Enough ('Tis the Season Collection)
by Amy D'Orazio
Kindle Edition, 98 pages
Published October 25th, 2021 by Quills & Quartos Publishing
ASIN: B09H4YNHQ8
[ kindle doc ~ giveaway winner ] [ kindle ~ kindle freebie ]
There are very few of us who have heart enough to be really in love without encouragement.
ELIZABETH BENNET NEVER IMAGINED that by appeasing Mr Darcy’s aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, she would permanently injure the gentleman’s feelings, but so it was. Robbing him of all hope towards her, he impulsively proposes to his cousin Anne, finding out just weeks later that Elizabeth did, in fact, have tender regard for him.
DISTRESSED BY THE KNOWLEDGE that misunderstandings have once again thwarted them, Elizabeth flees to the Continent to forget him. Returning two years later, she is more confident, more worldly, and alas, every bit as in love with him as she ever was. She resolves to offer him her friendship, believing him married, perhaps with children.
BUT CIRCUMSTANCES HAVE CHANGED for Mr Darcy. Will they have heart enough to learn the truth from one another or will misunderstandings defeat them once more?
HEART ENOUGH is a novella length Pride & Prejudice variation.
May 12, 2023
Short but lovely
I would have read much more!
Perhaps knowing more of Elizabeth's travels.
I thought maybe Vienna was going to be mentioned because of the cover but no, it's not mentioned at all.
I would have read much more!
Perhaps knowing more of Elizabeth's travels.
I thought maybe Vienna was going to be mentioned because of the cover but no, it's not mentioned at all.
November 22, 2023
Ugh Amy! Why!?! Why must you rip my heart out for half the novella!!!! Killing me. Oh the angst followed by the sweetness. I save this one for last of the Q&Q holiday collection. No Saye but we do get Lizzy a GBF which is just fine!
December 11, 2022
When confronted with Lady Catherine’s demands to leave Darcy alone, Elizabeth decides it is wiser not to provoke the woman. When Darcy hears of her response, his last hope of her regard flickers out.
Feeling he has nothing to lose, her proposes to his cousin Anne De Bourgh.
Only a few weeks later, he discovers Elizabeth does love him, but he is now bound to Anne.
The pain of this knowledge is unbearable to Elizabeth and she arranges to travel to the continent to mend her heart. After two years she returns, still in love with Darcy.
Believing him married with possibly a family, she resolves to offer her friendship.
But what is the truth about Darcy’s status? Can friendship or something more flourish?
This story is absolutely brilliant. The angst and the pain of misunderstandings and impossible love is palpable
When poor Darcy was left without hope, I cried!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Feeling he has nothing to lose, her proposes to his cousin Anne De Bourgh.
Only a few weeks later, he discovers Elizabeth does love him, but he is now bound to Anne.
The pain of this knowledge is unbearable to Elizabeth and she arranges to travel to the continent to mend her heart. After two years she returns, still in love with Darcy.
Believing him married with possibly a family, she resolves to offer her friendship.
But what is the truth about Darcy’s status? Can friendship or something more flourish?
This story is absolutely brilliant. The angst and the pain of misunderstandings and impossible love is palpable
When poor Darcy was left without hope, I cried!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
March 7, 2023
This is one of my favorite Jane Austen variation authors, but this one book is not. For all I read it quickly and liked it a lot, it felt a bit implausible to me based on the characters I'm accustomed to. I didn't think Darcy would so impulsively , based on something Lady Catherine relayed to him, nor that Elizabeth's parents or aunt and uncle would let her . And then Jane being so clueless as to fail to let Elizabeth know such important news, even if Lizzy had asked not to hear from her on that subject. But if you can suspend disbelief about those things, this is an angst-driven, novella-length Pride and Prejudice variation you might enjoy.
The Christmas theme is not prevalent, and really only came into play in the epilogue as far as I recall.
The Christmas theme is not prevalent, and really only came into play in the epilogue as far as I recall.
December 14, 2021
So good! I’ve enjoyed everything that I’ve read so far by Ms D’Orazio and this one, though short, is just as enjoyable. The depth of feelings portrayed in a few short chapters…lovely. And the epilogue! Very satisfying.
March 20, 2022
Elizabeth’s words come back to haunt her, giving into Lady Catherines demands that she never become engaged to Mr. Darcy. Darcy hears this and feeling despondent he proposes to his cousin Anne. Lady Catherine makes a huge deal of their engagement in society. Elizabeth hears the news and regrets her decision, feeling all is lost she agrees to become a companion to and elder lady leaving England for a minimum of a year.
Elizabeth comes back soon learns not all is as she thought.
Elizabeth comes back soon learns not all is as she thought.
November 1, 2024
Such A Great Book
This book proves why JAFF authors are some of the best in the literary world. Amy D'Orazio writes with a style that would make Jane Austen herself jealous. The story she tells is one of such unnecessary heartbreak that one can't help but feel pity for E&D for so many misunderstandings and missed opportunities. Thank goodness for happy endings
This book proves why JAFF authors are some of the best in the literary world. Amy D'Orazio writes with a style that would make Jane Austen herself jealous. The story she tells is one of such unnecessary heartbreak that one can't help but feel pity for E&D for so many misunderstandings and missed opportunities. Thank goodness for happy endings
December 16, 2021
Sweet story
Although I made a very critical note within the book, I enjoyed it nevertheless. Nothing new in the book in terms of plot.. Elizabeth is off to the Continent as companion to a wealthy woman blah blah … misunderstandings with Darcy abound and then they’re over and HEA.
Although I made a very critical note within the book, I enjoyed it nevertheless. Nothing new in the book in terms of plot.. Elizabeth is off to the Continent as companion to a wealthy woman blah blah … misunderstandings with Darcy abound and then they’re over and HEA.
November 1, 2021
It started with Jane and Mr. Bingley's bethrotal and wedding. Followed by a heartache for ODC and Elizabeth travelling to the continent.
If you would like to read a book that will warm your heart and spirits this season, this is a good book to read. This is an easy to read story with heartwrenching and heart-warming moments, one will not forget. Love Lizzy's words and resolve. (The ending is not what I anticipated). I highly recommend this short story to P & P fans.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you would like to read a book that will warm your heart and spirits this season, this is a good book to read. This is an easy to read story with heartwrenching and heart-warming moments, one will not forget. Love Lizzy's words and resolve. (The ending is not what I anticipated). I highly recommend this short story to P & P fans.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 25, 2021
A pleasant novella with Darcy and Elizabeth in love all the way through, but constantly missing out on their HEA through misunderstandings.
Misunderstandings are among my least favourite romance tropes, however, because I feel like reasonable adults should be able to communicate, and the 'obstacle' of not speaking should be reserved for teens. Yes, I'm aware that makes me sound like a grumpy old woman.
Nevertheless, Amy D'Orazio writes a nice JAFF and I'm sure readers will enjoy this one.
Misunderstandings are among my least favourite romance tropes, however, because I feel like reasonable adults should be able to communicate, and the 'obstacle' of not speaking should be reserved for teens. Yes, I'm aware that makes me sound like a grumpy old woman.
Nevertheless, Amy D'Orazio writes a nice JAFF and I'm sure readers will enjoy this one.
November 22, 2021
3.5 stars
The writing was beautiful but there was too much miscommunication for my taste. Just talk to each other!
The writing was beautiful but there was too much miscommunication for my taste. Just talk to each other!
December 29, 2024
Super angsty but sooo good as i come to expect from this favorite and phenomenal author!
October 9, 2022
Angsty, but lovely
I spent the first part of the story was but it is an original and refreshing tale with interesting original characters.
I spent the first part of the story was but it is an original and refreshing tale with interesting original characters.
November 7, 2021
Wonderful
After Darcy fixes the Lydia/Wickham debacle, he returns to Hertfordshire with Bingley, but his grave and silent behavior convinces Elizabeth that Darcy can no longer wish to connect himself to a family that includes his worst enemy. Darcy, meanwhile, gets no encouragement from Elizabeth, and believes she must now hate him for allowing Wickham to prey on their family. Therefore, Darcy leaves with a broken heart and decides to give in to his family's wishes and marry Anne DeBourgh. Elizabeth has an encounter with Lady Catherine, during which she gives Lady Catherine the impression that she has no strong feelings for Darcy. Elizabeth accepts an offer to accompany a lady to Italy as her companion, believing that Darcy is now lost to her.
It's sometimes difficult to accept these Regency era customs, wherein no one ever speaks up and asks the important questions, such as "Do you care about me at all?" , or "Is there any hope for us?" . How could a man such as Darcy not confront the woman he supposedly loves so much, and be certain of her sentiments, before he goes off and proposes to his sickly and dull cousin? It boggles the mind that he could be so stupid, and yet it would probably be a breach of propriety or some such thing. These proper manners can be so annoying!
Yet, this is a highly romantic and engaging story, bittersweet at times, but ultimately lovely. This is a swoon worthy Darcy, when he's not being stupid, and a brave and loving Elizabeth. This author is unfailingly superb, a wonderful writer, and the book is also well edited. I recommend it highly as a pleasant way to pass a few hours.
After Darcy fixes the Lydia/Wickham debacle, he returns to Hertfordshire with Bingley, but his grave and silent behavior convinces Elizabeth that Darcy can no longer wish to connect himself to a family that includes his worst enemy. Darcy, meanwhile, gets no encouragement from Elizabeth, and believes she must now hate him for allowing Wickham to prey on their family. Therefore, Darcy leaves with a broken heart and decides to give in to his family's wishes and marry Anne DeBourgh. Elizabeth has an encounter with Lady Catherine, during which she gives Lady Catherine the impression that she has no strong feelings for Darcy. Elizabeth accepts an offer to accompany a lady to Italy as her companion, believing that Darcy is now lost to her.
It's sometimes difficult to accept these Regency era customs, wherein no one ever speaks up and asks the important questions, such as "Do you care about me at all?" , or "Is there any hope for us?" . How could a man such as Darcy not confront the woman he supposedly loves so much, and be certain of her sentiments, before he goes off and proposes to his sickly and dull cousin? It boggles the mind that he could be so stupid, and yet it would probably be a breach of propriety or some such thing. These proper manners can be so annoying!
Yet, this is a highly romantic and engaging story, bittersweet at times, but ultimately lovely. This is a swoon worthy Darcy, when he's not being stupid, and a brave and loving Elizabeth. This author is unfailingly superb, a wonderful writer, and the book is also well edited. I recommend it highly as a pleasant way to pass a few hours.
October 29, 2021
Heart and Hope
Lady Catherine really did know how to act. And Elizabeth gave her the opening by, for once, saying too little. It will never fail to amaze me how a clever and, in this case, extraordinary author, can find the openings Jane Austen left in her story, to provide another insight and unseen path to explore. Once again Ms. D'Orazio has written an original story that brought me to tears and quiet cheers. Thank you DA. And a very merry Christmas to all.
Lady Catherine really did know how to act. And Elizabeth gave her the opening by, for once, saying too little. It will never fail to amaze me how a clever and, in this case, extraordinary author, can find the openings Jane Austen left in her story, to provide another insight and unseen path to explore. Once again Ms. D'Orazio has written an original story that brought me to tears and quiet cheers. Thank you DA. And a very merry Christmas to all.
July 24, 2023
As I read this, I was certain I had read it before - and yet somehow I had not logged it on here! On a second reading, my feelings were the same - it is a lovely story despite its short length. My one area of criticism is of the characters Jane and Bingley - and how foolishly I felt they acted in their choices throughout the novella (which then kept Darcy and Elizabeth heartbroken - needlessly!).
January 23, 2022
Good story
Liked the story nut it was like if they had just one conversation it would all be solved. Like the epilogue/ diary of Darcy. Interesting Ending !
Liked the story nut it was like if they had just one conversation it would all be solved. Like the epilogue/ diary of Darcy. Interesting Ending !
January 25, 2022
These Christmas novellas are cheering me up. This one was particularly touching. This author has a magic touch for writing Elizabeth and Darcy.
Read
October 27, 2021Short tale
Elizabeth tells Lady Catherine that she's not involved with Darcy simply to get rid of her with a minimum of drama. Later at Jane's wedding she learns that he is betrothed to his cousin Anne. A devastated Elizabeth goes to Italy with a friend of her aunt Gardiners to escape from his wedding and the pain of seeing him. She's gone for 2 years and when she returns keeps running into him ( without Anne). Eventually she learns that they never married. It's a sad, basic story of miscommunication on everyone's part. Two things were annoying to me 1) Kitty gave Elizabeth a lace mob cap for Christmas as a " joke" since she is a spinster. How cruel can a sister be? 2) Jane Bingley is insisting that Elizabeth find a man and marry. She doesn't wait even an hour after seeing her sister after 2 years to begin acting as Mrs Bennet! I found it quite distasteful..... Any male would do even one of the friends that Elizabeth met in Italy who is more interested in males than any female. He would be acceptable to Jane because that meant Elizabeth was married - who cares if shes unhappy and never having children.
Elizabeth tells Lady Catherine that she's not involved with Darcy simply to get rid of her with a minimum of drama. Later at Jane's wedding she learns that he is betrothed to his cousin Anne. A devastated Elizabeth goes to Italy with a friend of her aunt Gardiners to escape from his wedding and the pain of seeing him. She's gone for 2 years and when she returns keeps running into him ( without Anne). Eventually she learns that they never married. It's a sad, basic story of miscommunication on everyone's part. Two things were annoying to me 1) Kitty gave Elizabeth a lace mob cap for Christmas as a " joke" since she is a spinster. How cruel can a sister be? 2) Jane Bingley is insisting that Elizabeth find a man and marry. She doesn't wait even an hour after seeing her sister after 2 years to begin acting as Mrs Bennet! I found it quite distasteful..... Any male would do even one of the friends that Elizabeth met in Italy who is more interested in males than any female. He would be acceptable to Jane because that meant Elizabeth was married - who cares if shes unhappy and never having children.
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