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Darcy's Labours of Love
A Pride and Prejudice variation. Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy immediately regrets his insult to Elizabeth Bennet at the Meryton Assembly, and takes the opportunity during a chance meeting on Oakham Mount to apologize. Reticent to so easily forgive Darcy's boorish behaviour, Elizabeth announces that she will consider Darcy's request after further studying his actions. Darcy impulsively offers to complete six labours chosen by Elizabeth, in the tradition of The Twelve Labours of Hercules, to demonstrate that he can be a better man. In exchange, Darcy will not only receive Elizabeth's friendship but also a token, of his choosing, at the completion of each labour.
Join the traditional P&P characters, and some new ones, as Elizabeth designs labours to test the boundaries of Darcy's social faults. The outcomes surprise both Elizabeth and Darcy as the completion of Darcy's labours and the collection of his tokens deepens their friendship. However, just as their friendship blossoms into something more their future is threatened by an act of revenge. Will Darcy's labours lead to a deep, abiding love?
Author's Note: Readers should be aware that there is an event in the book of a violent physical attack which is described explicitly, both as it happens and in its re-telling. There are some descriptions of kissing that demonstrate the ardent love of our dear couple, but the situations are written in good taste. For Regency period enthusiasts, there are some liberties taken with the behaviour of a courting couple.
Join the traditional P&P characters, and some new ones, as Elizabeth designs labours to test the boundaries of Darcy's social faults. The outcomes surprise both Elizabeth and Darcy as the completion of Darcy's labours and the collection of his tokens deepens their friendship. However, just as their friendship blossoms into something more their future is threatened by an act of revenge. Will Darcy's labours lead to a deep, abiding love?
Author's Note: Readers should be aware that there is an event in the book of a violent physical attack which is described explicitly, both as it happens and in its re-telling. There are some descriptions of kissing that demonstrate the ardent love of our dear couple, but the situations are written in good taste. For Regency period enthusiasts, there are some liberties taken with the behaviour of a courting couple.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 17, 2021
69 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 3, 2022
A Fine Debut
When Darcy apologizes to Elizabeth for his insult at the Meryton Assembly, he also asks for her forgiveness and friendship. She agrees, but only on the condition that he fulfill six assigned labours. He agrees but, on more consideration, he requests a token for each labour he completes. Elizabeth agrees. I thought this premise, based on The Twelve Labours of Hercules, was a great idea and, to my knowledge after reading hundreds and hundreds of variations, one not previously used.
As Darcy undertakes his labours, his usual reticent personality begins to open up, not just with Elizabeth, but also with others he must encounter to accomplish his tasks. Throughout, he and Elizabeth are falling in love. Aside from his initial insult, this Darcy is very likeable, and this Elizabeth more open to forgiveness.
Of course, Wickham the snake has to rear his head and cause grief. I didn’t quite see the relevance in adding him to the story. For me, a villain isn’t always necessary. At least he doesn’t take up too much space. However, he does commit a violent act against Elizabeth (not sexual).
While I thought the book well written, it did have flaws. I thought there were several missed opportunities to have good dialogue in some scenes, which is instead related in the narrative style. I always find written conversation gives life to a book, which improves the story’s flow. The dialogue that did exist was well done and I enjoyed it.
I didn’t see many typos per se, which is always a big plus but, there were some grammar and punctuation misses and a few malaprops as well. I encourage this new author to consider a good proofreader/editor and/or some ARC readers for future releases.
I did enjoy this debut novel very much and I look forward to to more from this author.
June 3 - Audiobook
I most definitely enjoyed this book even more listening to Stevie Zimmerman’s always excellent narration and performance. This Darcy is beyond lovable. Highly recommend the audiobook.
When Darcy apologizes to Elizabeth for his insult at the Meryton Assembly, he also asks for her forgiveness and friendship. She agrees, but only on the condition that he fulfill six assigned labours. He agrees but, on more consideration, he requests a token for each labour he completes. Elizabeth agrees. I thought this premise, based on The Twelve Labours of Hercules, was a great idea and, to my knowledge after reading hundreds and hundreds of variations, one not previously used.
As Darcy undertakes his labours, his usual reticent personality begins to open up, not just with Elizabeth, but also with others he must encounter to accomplish his tasks. Throughout, he and Elizabeth are falling in love. Aside from his initial insult, this Darcy is very likeable, and this Elizabeth more open to forgiveness.
Of course, Wickham the snake has to rear his head and cause grief. I didn’t quite see the relevance in adding him to the story. For me, a villain isn’t always necessary. At least he doesn’t take up too much space. However, he does commit a violent act against Elizabeth (not sexual).
While I thought the book well written, it did have flaws. I thought there were several missed opportunities to have good dialogue in some scenes, which is instead related in the narrative style. I always find written conversation gives life to a book, which improves the story’s flow. The dialogue that did exist was well done and I enjoyed it.
I didn’t see many typos per se, which is always a big plus but, there were some grammar and punctuation misses and a few malaprops as well. I encourage this new author to consider a good proofreader/editor and/or some ARC readers for future releases.
I did enjoy this debut novel very much and I look forward to to more from this author.
June 3 - Audiobook
I most definitely enjoyed this book even more listening to Stevie Zimmerman’s always excellent narration and performance. This Darcy is beyond lovable. Highly recommend the audiobook.
November 8, 2021
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars
Darcy's insult at the Assembly is overheard by more than just Elizabeth and Bingley demands that he apologize. It takes several attempts to speak with her but when he does she is more open to listening and accepting his apology than the Elizabeth who turned down Darcy's proposal in canon. At his suggestion, she doles out six labours, one at a time, with the end result that she will give him her friendship.
I found the handling of the "labours" very well conceived and found it also interesting that this Darcy asks for a token with each task completed successfully. In reading the blurb I was curious about what type of labours Elizabeth would come up with. The tasks are well thought out and are more that a "task"...they are set up to improve upon some aspect and/or need in Darcy's personality or life.
However about half way through the tasks Darcy and Bingley must leave Netherfield and return to London. The story then turns to correspondence between the two...until Darcy receives an urgent letter from Mr. Bennet. Yes, our villain has found a way to stick his foot into the story. As one other review remarked it did seem as if Elizabeth made a swift recovery from what was dealt her. It was a near thing, though.
I especially liked one labour near the end in which Darcy has to get to know each sister and find out some area in which they are lacking but in which they have great interest. Yes, Darcy has to even strike up a conversation with Lydia.
Romance occurs early...even before the tasks are completed. That was sweet although surprising. Love does not stop Elizabeth from requiring the completion of all the labours.
There is a epilogue, which I always enjoy. Oh, and there is a celebration of Christmas included so this story can be viewed as very timely as we approach that holiday.
Darcy's insult at the Assembly is overheard by more than just Elizabeth and Bingley demands that he apologize. It takes several attempts to speak with her but when he does she is more open to listening and accepting his apology than the Elizabeth who turned down Darcy's proposal in canon. At his suggestion, she doles out six labours, one at a time, with the end result that she will give him her friendship.
I found the handling of the "labours" very well conceived and found it also interesting that this Darcy asks for a token with each task completed successfully. In reading the blurb I was curious about what type of labours Elizabeth would come up with. The tasks are well thought out and are more that a "task"...they are set up to improve upon some aspect and/or need in Darcy's personality or life.
However about half way through the tasks Darcy and Bingley must leave Netherfield and return to London. The story then turns to correspondence between the two...until Darcy receives an urgent letter from Mr. Bennet. Yes, our villain has found a way to stick his foot into the story. As one other review remarked it did seem as if Elizabeth made a swift recovery from what was dealt her. It was a near thing, though.
I especially liked one labour near the end in which Darcy has to get to know each sister and find out some area in which they are lacking but in which they have great interest. Yes, Darcy has to even strike up a conversation with Lydia.
Romance occurs early...even before the tasks are completed. That was sweet although surprising. Love does not stop Elizabeth from requiring the completion of all the labours.
There is a epilogue, which I always enjoy. Oh, and there is a celebration of Christmas included so this story can be viewed as very timely as we approach that holiday.
September 5, 2023
This is such a sweet story. I absolutely enjoyed it. The labours were well thought out and were designed to improve Darcy and his relationship with Elizabeth. Their banter and their correspondence were too enjoyable.
November 25, 2021
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
October 25, 2021
Enjoyable
Interesting premise. However, there was a lot of telling, not showing, which made the book less interesting than it could have been.
Interesting premise. However, there was a lot of telling, not showing, which made the book less interesting than it could have been.
October 24, 2021
Imagination and Plausibility
For me, this was the first pride and prejudice variation that I did not find to be lacking in imagination and or plausibility. Many other variations of the original I have faulted a paragraph or even a chapter with being out of character or ridiculous.
I loved the introduction of the labour's, for me,, it gave opportunity for both Elizabeth and Darcy to become genuine.
I thoroughly enjoyed this even more than the original Jane Austin's PnP. If I entered a room with the main characters present, I would recognize each one.
Several variations have a rushed ending that deteriorates the rest of their story.
The epiloge here provided me with a visual of each of the characters mentioned. Thank you.
For me, this was the first pride and prejudice variation that I did not find to be lacking in imagination and or plausibility. Many other variations of the original I have faulted a paragraph or even a chapter with being out of character or ridiculous.
I loved the introduction of the labour's, for me,, it gave opportunity for both Elizabeth and Darcy to become genuine.
I thoroughly enjoyed this even more than the original Jane Austin's PnP. If I entered a room with the main characters present, I would recognize each one.
Several variations have a rushed ending that deteriorates the rest of their story.
The epiloge here provided me with a visual of each of the characters mentioned. Thank you.
November 8, 2021
Good Story, could have been Wonderful
The story revolves around six labours Darcy promises to perform to win the 'friendship' of Elizabeth. That said, you can see how this concept is tempered by a meekness of intent by the author. With more courage, this book had a lot of potential as would its author. There is a cloying sweetness in the premise which quickly becomes irrelevant. Worse is that there a some great segments of the story that display a real talent for clever, character enhancing dialog. Problem is: prolonged segments of the story are "told" by the author, not discussed or demonstrated by action or intercourse of the characters. So much feels like a narrative of an outline, not a moving, breathing romance between two enraptured characters. Perhaps a novella, with less plot but more direct interaction would be best for the next attempt. Add an editor who can indicate where the author has taken a misstep and push her to revisit the scenes wanting. Hope she tries again, the glimmers are very good, just too far apart.
The story revolves around six labours Darcy promises to perform to win the 'friendship' of Elizabeth. That said, you can see how this concept is tempered by a meekness of intent by the author. With more courage, this book had a lot of potential as would its author. There is a cloying sweetness in the premise which quickly becomes irrelevant. Worse is that there a some great segments of the story that display a real talent for clever, character enhancing dialog. Problem is: prolonged segments of the story are "told" by the author, not discussed or demonstrated by action or intercourse of the characters. So much feels like a narrative of an outline, not a moving, breathing romance between two enraptured characters. Perhaps a novella, with less plot but more direct interaction would be best for the next attempt. Add an editor who can indicate where the author has taken a misstep and push her to revisit the scenes wanting. Hope she tries again, the glimmers are very good, just too far apart.
November 27, 2021
A truly enjoyable variation
This delightful variation has the most essential element, which is mainly focused on Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. Their exchanges, humorous, flirtatious and romantic are enjoyable and refreshing.
The only considerable angst, by form of Wickham, came later in the story, and came as a welcome repose from the overly sweet exchanges that have developed between our beloved couple. Not that this reader would have not appreciated more romance and affection between Elizabeth and Darcy; it just became almost saccharine sweet at one point.
The whole premise is how a man truly in love would go through whatever lengths to win the heart and regard of the woman he loves, as how it should be in courtship and marriage. The execution and writing are superb and impressive. This highly-recommended offering gives hope for many ladies in search for a worthy man to be life partner.
Never settle for anything less, ladies, and never ever hold back in asking for your admirers’ labours of love.
This delightful variation has the most essential element, which is mainly focused on Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. Their exchanges, humorous, flirtatious and romantic are enjoyable and refreshing.
The only considerable angst, by form of Wickham, came later in the story, and came as a welcome repose from the overly sweet exchanges that have developed between our beloved couple. Not that this reader would have not appreciated more romance and affection between Elizabeth and Darcy; it just became almost saccharine sweet at one point.
The whole premise is how a man truly in love would go through whatever lengths to win the heart and regard of the woman he loves, as how it should be in courtship and marriage. The execution and writing are superb and impressive. This highly-recommended offering gives hope for many ladies in search for a worthy man to be life partner.
Never settle for anything less, ladies, and never ever hold back in asking for your admirers’ labours of love.
November 8, 2021
Brava! to a new author
The book summary neatly sums up the gist of the story - that Darcy apologizes for his insult of Elizabeth at the assembly, but in lieu of outright forgiveness on her part, she demands that he "earn" her friendship. Darcy suggests the idea of demanding "labours" of him, such as Hercules had to endure. Elizabeth settles for six labours of her choosing.
This is a marvelously imaginative premise, and one that practically guarantees an entertaining tale. Indeed, this author writes a witty and fun book, rich with delightful banter and clever humor. I love all of the encounters between Elizabeth and Darcy, as they're so full of deliciously intelligent exchanges. For once, the book states that Darcy and Elizabeth are very smart, and then backs it up with some really great dialogue.
I wouldn't look for a very Darcy-like Darcy, as in this version he's not the super stuffy, ramrod straight guy of Jane Austen 's imagination, but rather someone more open to change, and susceptible to a pretty face. He's more of a swoon worthy Darcy, and the romance is lovely. As the book summary indicates, there is a scene of significant violence, and it is surprising in a book of otherwise fairly light and fluffy material. However, I felt a little gravity was not a bad thing. It saved the story from getting too sickly sweet.
My only problem with the book was with word usage. The book is well written. However, there were many places where a word was used in an incorrect way. It felt like the author had lifted certain terms that appear in many of these JAFF variations, but threw it in here the wrong way.
Otherwise, I really enjoyed the story, and recommend it highly.
The book summary neatly sums up the gist of the story - that Darcy apologizes for his insult of Elizabeth at the assembly, but in lieu of outright forgiveness on her part, she demands that he "earn" her friendship. Darcy suggests the idea of demanding "labours" of him, such as Hercules had to endure. Elizabeth settles for six labours of her choosing.
This is a marvelously imaginative premise, and one that practically guarantees an entertaining tale. Indeed, this author writes a witty and fun book, rich with delightful banter and clever humor. I love all of the encounters between Elizabeth and Darcy, as they're so full of deliciously intelligent exchanges. For once, the book states that Darcy and Elizabeth are very smart, and then backs it up with some really great dialogue.
I wouldn't look for a very Darcy-like Darcy, as in this version he's not the super stuffy, ramrod straight guy of Jane Austen 's imagination, but rather someone more open to change, and susceptible to a pretty face. He's more of a swoon worthy Darcy, and the romance is lovely. As the book summary indicates, there is a scene of significant violence, and it is surprising in a book of otherwise fairly light and fluffy material. However, I felt a little gravity was not a bad thing. It saved the story from getting too sickly sweet.
My only problem with the book was with word usage. The book is well written. However, there were many places where a word was used in an incorrect way. It felt like the author had lifted certain terms that appear in many of these JAFF variations, but threw it in here the wrong way.
Otherwise, I really enjoyed the story, and recommend it highly.
November 8, 2021
I struggled with the modern-day language ( Okay, so...) and the lack of decorum. I didn't finish the book.
October 28, 2021
A fun read!
An interesting and new take for ODC. The story worked for me until Elizabeth’s recovery. Anyone who has had severe injuries and or trauma would not recover as quickly as Elizabeth did. The author must have been wanting to wrap up the story. I would still recommend this book.
An interesting and new take for ODC. The story worked for me until Elizabeth’s recovery. Anyone who has had severe injuries and or trauma would not recover as quickly as Elizabeth did. The author must have been wanting to wrap up the story. I would still recommend this book.
December 1, 2021
DNF. Lots of telling instead of showing and Darcy seemed OOC to me. Book is highly reviewed so it’s probably just not my style of writing.
I did have a hard time believing Darcy would be so open and candid with Elizabeth on their first conversation with each other, much less agree to meet with her alone the next day to accept what his labours are when they must have talked for no more than 10-15 minutes (you’d think this would be a warning alarm for him as he does not truly now her or her character and she could be setting him up for a compromise!)
I did have a hard time believing Darcy would be so open and candid with Elizabeth on their first conversation with each other, much less agree to meet with her alone the next day to accept what his labours are when they must have talked for no more than 10-15 minutes (you’d think this would be a warning alarm for him as he does not truly now her or her character and she could be setting him up for a compromise!)
January 29, 2022
P&P is one of my all-time favorites & this was a wonderful retelling. It delves into the motivation behind some of the behaviors of Mr. Darcy, the Bennet sisters & Mrs. Bennet. I enjoyed the character development and felt the labours & tokens connected Elizabeth & William in a deeper way. I also appreciated the departure taken with Wickham’s storyline. I always felt he got off too easily!
August 13, 2022
Very sweet & a lovely well written story. Zero angst, but perhaps that was made up for by the brutal attack on Elizabeth. Which, honestly just didn’t really seem to fit into the story of such an otherwise easy going novel. However, literally any book that forgoes a Wickham/Lydia ending already has plus points from me.
April 9, 2024
Wonderful story
Lovely interaction between our beloved couple through most of the tale in a marvelously written plot, funny and romantic. A most worthwhile book!
Lovely interaction between our beloved couple through most of the tale in a marvelously written plot, funny and romantic. A most worthwhile book!
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December 19, 2021Overall, it was a good variation. Here is the reason why I gave it 3 stars. Seventy percent of the book was very vanilla. Nothing exciting happened. Darcy behaved like a perfect man, Elizabeth quickly got over her negative first impression of him, Mr. Bennett was much better and smarter person. All of this was fine with me. Once I came to realization that this will be a Kinkade kind of variation, I was perfectly content with that. It was a little boring but yet very relaxing and comforting read. Considering, I didn't have to buy the book but got it through kindle unlimited free trial, I was actually enjoying myself. The author writes well. Maybe not up to 1800s standard or language, but that's not the main point or attraction of these variations.
But then, at around 73%. Bam! Very uncharacteristically (for this story) violent event. Wait what? Then the whole episode got very quickly dealt with and nobody got PTSD or permanent body or brain injury. Ok.... And then we were quickly back to our Kinkade vanilla storytelling.
I was expecting some sort of disturbance from the usual suspects. But not anything like that. It just didn't fit in with this story.
Had the violent episode not blindsided me so much, I would have confidently rated this variation at 4 stars.
But then, at around 73%. Bam! Very uncharacteristically (for this story) violent event. Wait what? Then the whole episode got very quickly dealt with and nobody got PTSD or permanent body or brain injury. Ok.... And then we were quickly back to our Kinkade vanilla storytelling.
I was expecting some sort of disturbance from the usual suspects. But not anything like that. It just didn't fit in with this story.
Had the violent episode not blindsided me so much, I would have confidently rated this variation at 4 stars.
November 27, 2021
I think this is a 3.5 star for me... After overhearing the 'she is tolerable' comment at the assembly, Darcy is challenged by Elizabeth and he knows she's not impressed. In a chance meeting the following day, he apologies and Elizabeth accepts but tells him if he wants to be friends he has to complete 6 challenges of her choice. He accepts and seems to enjoy the challenges set for him.
This is a book that is quite good fun, a bit ridiculous but we spend a lot of time with Darcy and Elizabeth. Their engagement and marriage are a bit of a foregone conclusion and the two of them are allowed a lot of liberties because of this. The language isn't quite right - it doesn't feel very English at times which, as an English reader, is perhaps more noticable for me. In the challenges I felt like Darcy always ended up spending money, even though that wasn't the intention. I did quite enjoy this but those who prefer a more traditional story and style might struggle.
This is a book that is quite good fun, a bit ridiculous but we spend a lot of time with Darcy and Elizabeth. Their engagement and marriage are a bit of a foregone conclusion and the two of them are allowed a lot of liberties because of this. The language isn't quite right - it doesn't feel very English at times which, as an English reader, is perhaps more noticable for me. In the challenges I felt like Darcy always ended up spending money, even though that wasn't the intention. I did quite enjoy this but those who prefer a more traditional story and style might struggle.
April 10, 2023
McKenzie tells a rollicking story…but
I understand the rave reviews. This author gives us a well plotted story with great characters and witty dialogue. But the editing consistently distracted me. You cannot trust your spell check to save you from homonyms. Or Autocorrect? E.g. the consistent use of “misaligned” where I assume the author intended “maligned” when describing Wickham’s attacks on Darcy. Similarly “stead” for “steed” and “bating” for “Baiting”. It is very hard to proof your own writing, as one tends to read what one intended to write. And then there is the mix of anachronistic language and some very odd words that don’t appear in a dictionary in an attempt to reproduce 18C speech. A professional proof reader would be a good investment as this writer has a great deal of talent.
I understand the rave reviews. This author gives us a well plotted story with great characters and witty dialogue. But the editing consistently distracted me. You cannot trust your spell check to save you from homonyms. Or Autocorrect? E.g. the consistent use of “misaligned” where I assume the author intended “maligned” when describing Wickham’s attacks on Darcy. Similarly “stead” for “steed” and “bating” for “Baiting”. It is very hard to proof your own writing, as one tends to read what one intended to write. And then there is the mix of anachronistic language and some very odd words that don’t appear in a dictionary in an attempt to reproduce 18C speech. A professional proof reader would be a good investment as this writer has a great deal of talent.
January 26, 2022
I loved this story! and so will you.
When Bingley tells Darcy he is an unmitigated ass for his comment about Elizabeth Bennet, Darcy takes it to heart and intends to apologize. However, nothing is simple with Lizzy - although it was his own suggestion, Lizzy runs away with the idea of setting Darcy 6 labours to earn her friendship. She intends to make him a better man. What it actually does is prove that Darcy is a better man than she thinks, but circumstances on the eve of the Meryton Assembly just wore him down. What follows is a very touching courtship of two strong willed individuals who were able to see each other as their perfect match.
When Bingley tells Darcy he is an unmitigated ass for his comment about Elizabeth Bennet, Darcy takes it to heart and intends to apologize. However, nothing is simple with Lizzy - although it was his own suggestion, Lizzy runs away with the idea of setting Darcy 6 labours to earn her friendship. She intends to make him a better man. What it actually does is prove that Darcy is a better man than she thinks, but circumstances on the eve of the Meryton Assembly just wore him down. What follows is a very touching courtship of two strong willed individuals who were able to see each other as their perfect match.
January 10, 2022
loved it so much!
This has become one of my favorites. I thoroughly enjoyed the new characters and situations as Darcy set forth to complete his tasks/ labours. This had romance, action, sweet and thoughtful moments aplenty. The exchange of letters was a nice touch. I also liked unique way the author throws us for loop by shocking the reader with a dramatic happening/ conclusion and then sedately retelling how it happened. I will definitely be buying my own copy and reading this again!
This has become one of my favorites. I thoroughly enjoyed the new characters and situations as Darcy set forth to complete his tasks/ labours. This had romance, action, sweet and thoughtful moments aplenty. The exchange of letters was a nice touch. I also liked unique way the author throws us for loop by shocking the reader with a dramatic happening/ conclusion and then sedately retelling how it happened. I will definitely be buying my own copy and reading this again!
July 29, 2022
3.75 stars
This was so cute and wholesome and yet still engaging from a plot perspective which is not always the case with low angst P&P variations.
Was a little much at times? Yeah, especially when you find out the dowry amounts for the Bennet girls which is revealed quite out of the blue.
But the plot progresses in a manner that is both compelling and worthwhile an endeavour.
So if Darcy undertaking an adapted version of Hercules’ 12 Labours to get back into Lizzy’s good graces appeals to you, I wholeheartedly recommend this tale because I was a fan.
This was so cute and wholesome and yet still engaging from a plot perspective which is not always the case with low angst P&P variations.
Was a little much at times? Yeah, especially when you find out the dowry amounts for the Bennet girls which is revealed quite out of the blue.
But the plot progresses in a manner that is both compelling and worthwhile an endeavour.
So if Darcy undertaking an adapted version of Hercules’ 12 Labours to get back into Lizzy’s good graces appeals to you, I wholeheartedly recommend this tale because I was a fan.
April 16, 2023
Perfection!
I’ve read both PP variations by this author in 3 days. Couldn’t put them down and feel fortunate I saw a recommendation on a JAFF FB group. Well written with humor, emotion, heartwarming, and everything you need to be satisfied. I shed tears at certain parts which I’m not prone to do. I just love the letters and that overall the book FOCUSES on Elizabeth and Darcy, no other tangents or side stories. Just them which is all a fan could want. Only disappointment is that there are no more books by this author to read.
I’ve read both PP variations by this author in 3 days. Couldn’t put them down and feel fortunate I saw a recommendation on a JAFF FB group. Well written with humor, emotion, heartwarming, and everything you need to be satisfied. I shed tears at certain parts which I’m not prone to do. I just love the letters and that overall the book FOCUSES on Elizabeth and Darcy, no other tangents or side stories. Just them which is all a fan could want. Only disappointment is that there are no more books by this author to read.
November 29, 2021
Enjoyable
Although this book upon reading seemed to go smoothly with our couple, at about the half way point tragedy strikes. Prior we have the initial meet and insult, then upon an apology and still further, desire for friendship , thus enters the labours.
I enjoyed the letters exchanged, and found it interesting that it replayed a part of the story already told.
The story ends well despite the tragedy.
Although this book upon reading seemed to go smoothly with our couple, at about the half way point tragedy strikes. Prior we have the initial meet and insult, then upon an apology and still further, desire for friendship , thus enters the labours.
I enjoyed the letters exchanged, and found it interesting that it replayed a part of the story already told.
The story ends well despite the tragedy.
December 17, 2021
Emotional funny interesting
I totally fell in love with this storyline. Completely from start to finish this book intrigued me. I enjoyed and laugh (at some) labours Dar y had to do. I found that Darcy was more friendly in this one. Bingley was a stronger character. Miss Bingley and Wickham were still foul. Elizabeth finds away for Darcy to pr ok he himself in which they fall in love easier. Highly recommended for all, clean, well written, emotional, low anguiah.
I totally fell in love with this storyline. Completely from start to finish this book intrigued me. I enjoyed and laugh (at some) labours Dar y had to do. I found that Darcy was more friendly in this one. Bingley was a stronger character. Miss Bingley and Wickham were still foul. Elizabeth finds away for Darcy to pr ok he himself in which they fall in love easier. Highly recommended for all, clean, well written, emotional, low anguiah.
February 8, 2022
DNF
The story is one of those where many of the details are changed & social norms/character traits and typical behaviour are ignored, so it’s not really a reimagining - more of a story that happens to use JA’s character names.
That could be ignored, particularly for a idea that sounds quite intriguing, but the novel is very much told and so moves slowly and feels boring. Couldn’t keep my attention.
The story is one of those where many of the details are changed & social norms/character traits and typical behaviour are ignored, so it’s not really a reimagining - more of a story that happens to use JA’s character names.
That could be ignored, particularly for a idea that sounds quite intriguing, but the novel is very much told and so moves slowly and feels boring. Couldn’t keep my attention.
February 21, 2022
Fresh and original
Darcy is immediately remorseful after the insult at the assembly and while trying to apologize, Elizabeth lets him understand he has to earn her friendship. He is to complete six tasks that challenge him socially. This is a fresh, warm, humorous take on their courtship. My favorite part are the letters they exchange. Steam level: kissed. Minor proofreading misses.
Darcy is immediately remorseful after the insult at the assembly and while trying to apologize, Elizabeth lets him understand he has to earn her friendship. He is to complete six tasks that challenge him socially. This is a fresh, warm, humorous take on their courtship. My favorite part are the letters they exchange. Steam level: kissed. Minor proofreading misses.
October 28, 2021
Sweet and romantic
A loving, bit by bit, redemption of Darcy's character as Elizabeth sets him a series of challenges to earn her forgiveness and friendship. Not much angst, a serious threat of villainy, plenty of romance, and nice writing style all add up to a pleasant reading interlude.
A loving, bit by bit, redemption of Darcy's character as Elizabeth sets him a series of challenges to earn her forgiveness and friendship. Not much angst, a serious threat of villainy, plenty of romance, and nice writing style all add up to a pleasant reading interlude.
November 1, 2021
WONDERFUL BOOK
I really enjoyed this book and it has deservedly found a place on my All-Time Favourites List. The character development is excellent, the romance beautiful and the leads really are people you would like to know. In addition to all of the above the story is a little different and inspiring. Definitely a ***** book.
I really enjoyed this book and it has deservedly found a place on my All-Time Favourites List. The character development is excellent, the romance beautiful and the leads really are people you would like to know. In addition to all of the above the story is a little different and inspiring. Definitely a ***** book.
November 30, 2021
A Rarity at Their Best
Unexpected misadventures, fear and devotion are rolled into one as Elizabeth and her family become Darcy ' s aim to please. Enjoy breathtaking moments as well changed behaviors of our favorite, and not so favorite characters of our dear Miss Austen.
A must for all Austen fans.
Unexpected misadventures, fear and devotion are rolled into one as Elizabeth and her family become Darcy ' s aim to please. Enjoy breathtaking moments as well changed behaviors of our favorite, and not so favorite characters of our dear Miss Austen.
A must for all Austen fans.
December 18, 2021
Loved this variation!
The challenges that Elizabeth gave to Darcy were so charming that I could totally see the “real” Elizabeth doing something like this. I’ve never read a book by this author, but I will say I look forward to future books if they contain the same witty banter as this one.
The challenges that Elizabeth gave to Darcy were so charming that I could totally see the “real” Elizabeth doing something like this. I’ve never read a book by this author, but I will say I look forward to future books if they contain the same witty banter as this one.
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