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The Golden Daffodil: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Elizabeth and Darcy play their parts as a secret society works to take down Wickham.
Elizabeth Bennet was entirely surprised when Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy proposed marriage to her. He was more surprised when Elizabeth forcefully rejected him. Colonel Fitzwilliam, caught in the middle, fuels her considerable self-doubt. Had she been wrong about the rude and snobbish Mr. Darcy?
Jane is shaken by events of the past, and the scales fall from her eyes, revealing to her a world filled with evil. Her anger toward Bingley pushes them apart. Can Bingley’s best efforts overcome poor odds, or has Jane moved on for good?
Wickham remains on the loose, ready to take advantage of more women, but The League won’t let that continue. Darcy and Elizabeth are asked to deceive those around them for a good cause. It is one last opportunity for Darcy, but will it be enough? And what is The League of the Golden Daffodil...?
Elizabeth Bennet was entirely surprised when Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy proposed marriage to her. He was more surprised when Elizabeth forcefully rejected him. Colonel Fitzwilliam, caught in the middle, fuels her considerable self-doubt. Had she been wrong about the rude and snobbish Mr. Darcy?
Jane is shaken by events of the past, and the scales fall from her eyes, revealing to her a world filled with evil. Her anger toward Bingley pushes them apart. Can Bingley’s best efforts overcome poor odds, or has Jane moved on for good?
Wickham remains on the loose, ready to take advantage of more women, but The League won’t let that continue. Darcy and Elizabeth are asked to deceive those around them for a good cause. It is one last opportunity for Darcy, but will it be enough? And what is The League of the Golden Daffodil...?
545 pages, Paperback
Published July 5, 2021
80 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
Laraba Kendig
44 books106 followersI am a scientist by training, but a writer at heart. I have always loved reading with a passion and turned my hand to fanfiction a few years ago. I write stories similar to the ones I enjoy reading. They are interesting but light, romantic but not steamy. I am a super fan of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, and have been having a wonderful time writing P&P variations, exploring how new circumstances affect the beloved characters. So far I have published two novel-length Pride and Prejudice variations plus one short story via Amazon. My books include ‘I am Jael’ and ‘The Blind Will See’.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
April 7, 2025
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
The author tells us in her closing remarks that this story was "inspired in part by...The Scarlet Pimpernel". (I have read and enjoyed that story and some others by that author as well as a variation in JAFF by another author.) I have also read several other stories by this author and enjoyed them. She does use Bible verses as exhortation in having her characters address the reasons for some of their actions or their expectations. (Mary is not the only one who does this.)
Darcy gives Elizabeth his letter after his disastrous "Hunsford proposal". However in this variation she takes him up on his word that she can consult with Colonel Fitzwilliam as to the truth of his allegations concerning Wickham and his attempt to elope with Georgiana. The point here being Darcy's reasons for not punishing Wickham. Wickham has some incriminating letters from Georgiana which he will have published if Darcy moves against him. So how to recover the letters and are they all in one location? Anne de Bourgh overhears and now the plot turns.
I have to warn you that both Anne and her mother are very different characters in this story.
The Golden Daffodil is a society founded by Lady Catherine. I won't relate her motivations but they are startling. She and Anne have recruited other young ladies and trained them in many arts similar to what you would expect from a "police squad". They learn martial arts, disguises, use of weapons, acts of distraction, etc. in a fight to prevent men, both of low and high society, who encroach upon innocent women. Men, at times, partake in the action but mostly when it is their sisters, sweethearts, etc. who are targets.
Jane is not so forgiving of Bingley's desertion of her and Elizabeth only allows Darcy to court her, at first, when she realizes her misjudgment of him. Lydia makes some changes in her life but only after some stark revelations. This story leans more on the intrigue than on the romance in reaching the end. It does end at 97% on Kindle when we are then introduced to another of this author's stories.
I enjoyed this story. It does not resemble canon much IMHO.
The author tells us in her closing remarks that this story was "inspired in part by...The Scarlet Pimpernel". (I have read and enjoyed that story and some others by that author as well as a variation in JAFF by another author.) I have also read several other stories by this author and enjoyed them. She does use Bible verses as exhortation in having her characters address the reasons for some of their actions or their expectations. (Mary is not the only one who does this.)
Darcy gives Elizabeth his letter after his disastrous "Hunsford proposal". However in this variation she takes him up on his word that she can consult with Colonel Fitzwilliam as to the truth of his allegations concerning Wickham and his attempt to elope with Georgiana. The point here being Darcy's reasons for not punishing Wickham. Wickham has some incriminating letters from Georgiana which he will have published if Darcy moves against him. So how to recover the letters and are they all in one location? Anne de Bourgh overhears and now the plot turns.
I have to warn you that both Anne and her mother are very different characters in this story.
The Golden Daffodil is a society founded by Lady Catherine. I won't relate her motivations but they are startling. She and Anne have recruited other young ladies and trained them in many arts similar to what you would expect from a "police squad". They learn martial arts, disguises, use of weapons, acts of distraction, etc. in a fight to prevent men, both of low and high society, who encroach upon innocent women. Men, at times, partake in the action but mostly when it is their sisters, sweethearts, etc. who are targets.
Jane is not so forgiving of Bingley's desertion of her and Elizabeth only allows Darcy to court her, at first, when she realizes her misjudgment of him. Lydia makes some changes in her life but only after some stark revelations. This story leans more on the intrigue than on the romance in reaching the end. It does end at 97% on Kindle when we are then introduced to another of this author's stories.
I enjoyed this story. It does not resemble canon much IMHO.
August 20, 2021
Over all I was delighted with this book that gave Anne deBough agency, Lady Catherine a sense of humor and wit and Lydia a chance to rehabilitate herself. The first 95% had me thoroughly delighted.
But then something changed; I am not sure what precisely but I started feeling less and less pleased. Suddenly dialogue was a bit too wordy, things were a bit odd and then I saw the most horrifying words for a person like myself, Epilogue Chapter 1.
Like Lady C I am renowned for the frankness of my opinion on epilogues, I hate them. And ones of more than one chapter are especially loathsome. And ones that go so far into the future that you have to introduce new characters are just absurd. Honestly by the time I was finished reading this book's epilogue I was ready to give it three stars and stomp off in is fit of pique
But because I am not a completely spiteful person 3.5 rounded up to 4
But then something changed; I am not sure what precisely but I started feeling less and less pleased. Suddenly dialogue was a bit too wordy, things were a bit odd and then I saw the most horrifying words for a person like myself, Epilogue Chapter 1.
Like Lady C I am renowned for the frankness of my opinion on epilogues, I hate them. And ones of more than one chapter are especially loathsome. And ones that go so far into the future that you have to introduce new characters are just absurd. Honestly by the time I was finished reading this book's epilogue I was ready to give it three stars and stomp off in is fit of pique
But because I am not a completely spiteful person 3.5 rounded up to 4
July 18, 2021
A secret society
I can’t hardly do a couple of loads of laundry without making a mistake but everything works out for the people of the secret society with nary a hitch. Interesting plot but perhaps no problems in their complicated plans executions.
Very original premise. I liked it for the most part.
I can’t hardly do a couple of loads of laundry without making a mistake but everything works out for the people of the secret society with nary a hitch. Interesting plot but perhaps no problems in their complicated plans executions.
Very original premise. I liked it for the most part.
January 21, 2022
I loved the idea of the League of Daffodils. I’m curious as to why daffodils though and not tulips or chrysanthemums. I need to look up the meaning of daffodils in my flower book.
Thoughts and impressions:
Not much angst, a pity. I like angst a lot.
As I said, great idea of the formation of the League. Lady Catherine, Anne and Miss Colby were a lot of fun. I wish it was a little more serious and sinister. It felt a little fluffy at times.
I felt somewhat sad for Jane for having to endure her wake up call to harsh reality. Fortunately she was kind enough to allow Bingley to court her and ultimately they came to their own HEA.
Lydia is redeemed through some hard truths. Mr Bennet finally puts his foot down and relegates Lydia to her room until she realizes that she has been behaving badly. Mrs Bennet doesn’t remove Lydia from her room either because she doesn’t want Lydia spoiling Darcy’s proposal to Elizabeth. No worries there….Elizabeth proposes to Darcy!
I love the feminist lean in the storylines - women leading to protect themselves & even carrying knives on their person; enlightening women to the “ways of the world” rather than keeping them in the dark; etc. it’s very refreshing.
A little preachy, several quotes from the Bible, but whatever. The epilogue makes up for it a little.
Thoughts and impressions:
Not much angst, a pity. I like angst a lot.
As I said, great idea of the formation of the League. Lady Catherine, Anne and Miss Colby were a lot of fun. I wish it was a little more serious and sinister. It felt a little fluffy at times.
I felt somewhat sad for Jane for having to endure her wake up call to harsh reality. Fortunately she was kind enough to allow Bingley to court her and ultimately they came to their own HEA.
Lydia is redeemed through some hard truths. Mr Bennet finally puts his foot down and relegates Lydia to her room until she realizes that she has been behaving badly. Mrs Bennet doesn’t remove Lydia from her room either because she doesn’t want Lydia spoiling Darcy’s proposal to Elizabeth. No worries there….Elizabeth proposes to Darcy!
I love the feminist lean in the storylines - women leading to protect themselves & even carrying knives on their person; enlightening women to the “ways of the world” rather than keeping them in the dark; etc. it’s very refreshing.
A little preachy, several quotes from the Bible, but whatever. The epilogue makes up for it a little.
July 18, 2021
I read a WIP version of this story on a JAFF site and the published version probably received some edits.
I enjoyed the adventure, the way Lady Catherine and Anne DeBourgh put their talents to good use, and even Lydia learned something. The romance between ODC was a bit too swift as she went from the last man in the world to the best man I know with little interaction or evidence of his goodness. Evidence that Wickham is bad is not necessarily evidence that Darcy is good.
I enjoyed the adventure, the way Lady Catherine and Anne DeBourgh put their talents to good use, and even Lydia learned something. The romance between ODC was a bit too swift as she went from the last man in the world to the best man I know with little interaction or evidence of his goodness. Evidence that Wickham is bad is not necessarily evidence that Darcy is good.
August 30, 2021
A excellent read
This is a very unique take on Miss Austin's work. It held my attention from beginning to end and read it straight thru. I love this Miss De Bourgh and the others in this book.
This is a very unique take on Miss Austin's work. It held my attention from beginning to end and read it straight thru. I love this Miss De Bourgh and the others in this book.
July 20, 2021
Entertaining and satisfying!
The characters of Anne de Bourgh and Lady Catherine are exceedingly fun and the twist in canon a supremely original tale.
The characters of Anne de Bourgh and Lady Catherine are exceedingly fun and the twist in canon a supremely original tale.
October 15, 2022
What fun was had, what pleasures unexpected and those which were inevitable as they were written to be? It was such a fun set of twists and turns that I could not help but read it in two days' time! I most enjoyed Anne, of course, but the turns for Mr. Bingley were quite enjoyable, as were those for Mr. Bennet, such as we were given, Mary, and Kitty, though Kitty was more of a coat rack, she was still somewhat interesting for her ability with math that went nowhere. Glad I added it to my TBR list this challenge!
July 30, 2021
I've read several Pride and Prejudice variations by this author and she usually does a really unusual, unique, and interesting twist on one specific person that vastly changes the entire original story line. She really came through in this book with her style.
While at Hunsford after Darcy's proposal, Elizabeth takes up Darcy's off to discuss his letter with Colonel Fitzwilliam. Colonel Fitzwilliam is enraged that Darcy has not done anything about Wickham when he knows where he is (and was in fact right with him) and immediately drags Elizabeth with him to go confront Darcy. During their discussion, Anne de Bourgh overhears everything. She and her mother decide that Wickham is a case for the League of the Golden Daffodil and pull Darcy, Elizabeth, and Colonel Fitzwilliam into the League.
I don't want to say any more about what happens after because it will give away the entire story. However, the League is very interesting and the plan they form make for a very interesting book. Anne de Bourgh and Lady Catherine are where the major spin comes in this book and how the author decided to rewrite this fantastic - especially Lady Catherine! Charles Bingley, Caroline Bingley, Mrs. Jenkinson, and Mrs. Younge are back, with the two former falling into their traditional roles with a few changes. Mrs. Jenkinson was also augmented to a good degree which was fun as well. There are a few newcomers, but only one that really sticks around for most of the book and has an interesting impact on one of the Bennett sisters. Jane Bennett has an unusual reaction to the return of Mr. Bingley.
Like always, the author has a very good, almost sophisticated writing style that lends itself well to complex story lines. Thankfully, there is only one real sub plot that is interwoven into the story and not too much going on. There is some angst but it's more drama and suspense than emotional angst that most Pride and Prejudice variations go for. I thought it was an interesting read, very original, and fun. I can't say that die hard fans would like it since it varies so much from the original, but if you like the characters and want to see what they can get up to with some inspiration then this book and books by this author are what you are looking for!
While at Hunsford after Darcy's proposal, Elizabeth takes up Darcy's off to discuss his letter with Colonel Fitzwilliam. Colonel Fitzwilliam is enraged that Darcy has not done anything about Wickham when he knows where he is (and was in fact right with him) and immediately drags Elizabeth with him to go confront Darcy. During their discussion, Anne de Bourgh overhears everything. She and her mother decide that Wickham is a case for the League of the Golden Daffodil and pull Darcy, Elizabeth, and Colonel Fitzwilliam into the League.
I don't want to say any more about what happens after because it will give away the entire story. However, the League is very interesting and the plan they form make for a very interesting book. Anne de Bourgh and Lady Catherine are where the major spin comes in this book and how the author decided to rewrite this fantastic - especially Lady Catherine! Charles Bingley, Caroline Bingley, Mrs. Jenkinson, and Mrs. Younge are back, with the two former falling into their traditional roles with a few changes. Mrs. Jenkinson was also augmented to a good degree which was fun as well. There are a few newcomers, but only one that really sticks around for most of the book and has an interesting impact on one of the Bennett sisters. Jane Bennett has an unusual reaction to the return of Mr. Bingley.
Like always, the author has a very good, almost sophisticated writing style that lends itself well to complex story lines. Thankfully, there is only one real sub plot that is interwoven into the story and not too much going on. There is some angst but it's more drama and suspense than emotional angst that most Pride and Prejudice variations go for. I thought it was an interesting read, very original, and fun. I can't say that die hard fans would like it since it varies so much from the original, but if you like the characters and want to see what they can get up to with some inspiration then this book and books by this author are what you are looking for!
July 17, 2021
Another creative story!
Definitely a new twist on the aftermath of the infamous Hunsford proposal. Without spoilers, I will say that Elizabeth consults with Colonel Fitzwilliam regarding Darcy' s letter and many exciting adventures proceed from there. Bingley and Jane get more courage, Mr. Bennet gets a backbone, Darcy learns some lessons, and so does Elizabeth. A little bit heavy on the religious and biblical references at times, but a lovely and different story. Highly recommended.
Definitely a new twist on the aftermath of the infamous Hunsford proposal. Without spoilers, I will say that Elizabeth consults with Colonel Fitzwilliam regarding Darcy' s letter and many exciting adventures proceed from there. Bingley and Jane get more courage, Mr. Bennet gets a backbone, Darcy learns some lessons, and so does Elizabeth. A little bit heavy on the religious and biblical references at times, but a lovely and different story. Highly recommended.
July 19, 2021
Unique story line using p&p characters with a new twist. Some aspects of the story are standard p&p (lizzy and Darcy misunderstandings turning into their deep love, jane and Bingley finally getting back together, wickham being bad) but the overall story is unique if a little silly and far fetched. Well written and a fun read
August 18, 2021
It was a very different perspective, with the characters of Catherine de Bourgh, Anne de Bourgh and Jane passing into almost entirely new characterisations.
The story itself was fun to read, but I felt Elizabeth began to love Mr. Darcy without knowing as much about his behaviour as she does in the original Pride and Prejudice.
The story itself was fun to read, but I felt Elizabeth began to love Mr. Darcy without knowing as much about his behaviour as she does in the original Pride and Prejudice.
January 14, 2022
Original and so diverting
I loved this portrayal of my favorite characters. I especially enjoyed Anne DeBourgh and Lady Catherine, as well as a more assertive Jane. Thoroughly recommended and worthy!
I loved this portrayal of my favorite characters. I especially enjoyed Anne DeBourgh and Lady Catherine, as well as a more assertive Jane. Thoroughly recommended and worthy!
August 15, 2021
Brilliant
Could not put it down, Lady C and Annare two very different people in this story Lady C due to a bad experience as formed the league of the golden daffodils to protect young women and teach them self defence
Could not put it down, Lady C and Annare two very different people in this story Lady C due to a bad experience as formed the league of the golden daffodils to protect young women and teach them self defence
September 13, 2021
The Golden Daffodil is a secret society that works to protect women in trouble. The concept and execution of the society was such a fun part of this story. It was full of surprises.
August 26, 2021
Kind of an unrealistic premise, with not much happening (got nearly 1/2 way through, still nothing happening), on top of which I don't feel a need to subject myself to quote after quote from the Bible. I just want to enjoy a good JAFF story.
January 14, 2024
Regency style super heroines fighting off bad guys.
It was mostly a fun read with whole new aspects to some of our beloved P&P characters. It had a fair bit of "Praise the lord" and "Our Saviour" etc. This author seems to put lots of religion in her fanfic, it gets under my skin when bible thumping is heavy-handed. The epilogue was mostly good with all the Happy Endings we have come to expect, as well as a shrieking Mrs Bennett, "Oh, my poor nerves." The KIndle version has a few short stories added as a bonus. Enjoy.
It was mostly a fun read with whole new aspects to some of our beloved P&P characters. It had a fair bit of "Praise the lord" and "Our Saviour" etc. This author seems to put lots of religion in her fanfic, it gets under my skin when bible thumping is heavy-handed. The epilogue was mostly good with all the Happy Endings we have come to expect, as well as a shrieking Mrs Bennett, "Oh, my poor nerves." The KIndle version has a few short stories added as a bonus. Enjoy.
June 5, 2023
interesting
A very interesting and unusual premise in this adventure filled variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Laraba Kendig. I enjoyed it immensely.
A very interesting and unusual premise in this adventure filled variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Laraba Kendig. I enjoyed it immensely.
March 30, 2025
Interesting concept but:
* the success rate of the secret society is not believable
* too many Bible references (there's no need to include the infancy narrative while the characters gather to celebrate Christmas)
* characters know things they shouldn't (such as a character unknown in on location knowing someone fled because he was told he would be arrested)
* the success rate of the secret society is not believable
* too many Bible references (there's no need to include the infancy narrative while the characters gather to celebrate Christmas)
* characters know things they shouldn't (such as a character unknown in on location knowing someone fled because he was told he would be arrested)
August 3, 2021
Beyond Charming!!
An easy 5 Stars For this charming story That shows Lady Catherine is not an ogress, Anne Dr Fourth He's witty, courageous and crafty. Women Do not have to be hapless victims. And then wealthy and powerful will fight back in defense of women In a time when women had Almost no rights And no voice. Truly a spectacular story!
An easy 5 Stars For this charming story That shows Lady Catherine is not an ogress, Anne Dr Fourth He's witty, courageous and crafty. Women Do not have to be hapless victims. And then wealthy and powerful will fight back in defense of women In a time when women had Almost no rights And no voice. Truly a spectacular story!
July 19, 2021
This story departs so far from canon that it's almost in the stratosphere, but it's an interesting plot -
a group of female characters - some very unexpected - band together to destroy Wickham. Some characters' personality changes, although surprising, are totally plausible, and there are a couple of very funny scenes that made me laugh out loud.
In all, a well written, enjoyable and interesting story, like the author's previous works.
a group of female characters - some very unexpected - band together to destroy Wickham. Some characters' personality changes, although surprising, are totally plausible, and there are a couple of very funny scenes that made me laugh out loud.
In all, a well written, enjoyable and interesting story, like the author's previous works.
July 16, 2021
Nineteenth-century women's empowerment
In The Golden Daffodil, Ms Kendig has rehabilitated the characters of both Catherine and Anne de Bourgh, creating forceful and caring women who spearhead a society that cares for female victims, prevents wrongdoing, teaches self-defense, and avenges wrongs. Elizabeth and Jane Bennet become involved in the society and follow unusual paths to their HEAs, while the men play important but less crucial roles in this unique P&P variation.
In The Golden Daffodil, Ms Kendig has rehabilitated the characters of both Catherine and Anne de Bourgh, creating forceful and caring women who spearhead a society that cares for female victims, prevents wrongdoing, teaches self-defense, and avenges wrongs. Elizabeth and Jane Bennet become involved in the society and follow unusual paths to their HEAs, while the men play important but less crucial roles in this unique P&P variation.
August 19, 2021
Entertaining
The title refers to a secret "league" of mostly women who are committed to helping other women who are victims of unscrupulous men, be they women of high birth or low. The story begins after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, and after Elizabeth receives the letter from Darcy explaining his actions regarding Bingley and Jane, and regarding Wickham. Elizabeth decides to take Darcy up on his suggestion in the letter, and she approaches Colonel Fitzwilliam with questions about Wickham. The Colonel escorts Elizabeth to Rosings after he finds out that Darcy has done nothing to protect the people of Meryton from Wickham, and this is when we learn about the League of the Golden Daffodil.
I've found that when approaching a book by Laraba Kendig, it's best to just suspend belief and go with the flow. It's amusing to find out what twist she'll use on the P&P basic premise, and she's never disappointed me yet. This is one of the oddest ones yet, and I saw that she was inspired by the book The Scarlet Pimpernel, but still this tale teeters on the edge of being downright silly. Nonetheless, it's such a feel good story, and it's so engaging, that I can't complain. Ms Kendig always writes for her Christian audience, and this book is particularly heavy with the religious references and quotes from the bible. Almost every main character quotes , and while I certainly can't object, in my opinion it's excessive.
This is a very woman-centric tale, a real "girl power" treatise. There are, of course, many wonderful men in the story, but in almost all situations the woman has the upper hand. The romance is lovely, but it takes a back seat to the plot involving the League. I especially like what's done with Jane and Lydia.
This author is a talented writer and storyteller. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
The title refers to a secret "league" of mostly women who are committed to helping other women who are victims of unscrupulous men, be they women of high birth or low. The story begins after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford parsonage, and after Elizabeth receives the letter from Darcy explaining his actions regarding Bingley and Jane, and regarding Wickham. Elizabeth decides to take Darcy up on his suggestion in the letter, and she approaches Colonel Fitzwilliam with questions about Wickham. The Colonel escorts Elizabeth to Rosings after he finds out that Darcy has done nothing to protect the people of Meryton from Wickham, and this is when we learn about the League of the Golden Daffodil.
I've found that when approaching a book by Laraba Kendig, it's best to just suspend belief and go with the flow. It's amusing to find out what twist she'll use on the P&P basic premise, and she's never disappointed me yet. This is one of the oddest ones yet, and I saw that she was inspired by the book The Scarlet Pimpernel, but still this tale teeters on the edge of being downright silly. Nonetheless, it's such a feel good story, and it's so engaging, that I can't complain. Ms Kendig always writes for her Christian audience, and this book is particularly heavy with the religious references and quotes from the bible. Almost every main character quotes , and while I certainly can't object, in my opinion it's excessive.
This is a very woman-centric tale, a real "girl power" treatise. There are, of course, many wonderful men in the story, but in almost all situations the woman has the upper hand. The romance is lovely, but it takes a back seat to the plot involving the League. I especially like what's done with Jane and Lydia.
This author is a talented writer and storyteller. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
March 22, 2022
Interesting new direction for a series of variations
The introduction of the Golden Daffodil organization and contributors is an interesting starting point for what could be an intriguing series of variations. Lady C and Anne are opposites of their depiction in P&P as well as other variations. They, the changed family members, and the new characters integrate mysteries as well as highlighting crimes against women in regency times that are still happening today (though in different ways). The resolution of the relationship of E&D is almost an afterthought, lost in the narration of changes to all the Bennetts and the search for the missing letters. While many readers will not like the angst free storyline, this reader enjoyed the attention given to the ensemble and their activities. There were no significant editing errors noted.
Five stars awarded for the relatively lighthearted treatment and the introduction of a potential series of variations.
The introduction of the Golden Daffodil organization and contributors is an interesting starting point for what could be an intriguing series of variations. Lady C and Anne are opposites of their depiction in P&P as well as other variations. They, the changed family members, and the new characters integrate mysteries as well as highlighting crimes against women in regency times that are still happening today (though in different ways). The resolution of the relationship of E&D is almost an afterthought, lost in the narration of changes to all the Bennetts and the search for the missing letters. While many readers will not like the angst free storyline, this reader enjoyed the attention given to the ensemble and their activities. There were no significant editing errors noted.
Five stars awarded for the relatively lighthearted treatment and the introduction of a potential series of variations.
November 20, 2021
The Tale of the Golden Daffodil
If you love The Scarlet Pimpernel and Pride and Prejudice. I think you will love this tale. It is a mashup of the the two tales. I do enjoy it when authors do an incredible job of writing mash-ups.
I especially appreciated the tale told from a Christian female point of view. Beware there are direct and indirect inferences of violence against girls and women. There are Scriptural references that coincide with story events.
Lady Catherine, Anne, and Jane are not like canon. They are so much better! I especially enjoyed the reference of a married lady's name. It was so clever.
If you love The Scarlet Pimpernel and Pride and Prejudice. I think you will love this tale. It is a mashup of the the two tales. I do enjoy it when authors do an incredible job of writing mash-ups.
I especially appreciated the tale told from a Christian female point of view. Beware there are direct and indirect inferences of violence against girls and women. There are Scriptural references that coincide with story events.
Lady Catherine, Anne, and Jane are not like canon. They are so much better! I especially enjoyed the reference of a married lady's name. It was so clever.
August 19, 2021
A very original variation that deviates radically from canon. I enjoyed it, but thought that all the intensive training the ladies went through would lead to more use of it. A bit more suspense and danger would have added a lot to the story. A bit more romance would also have been nice. The relationships are almost clinical in their depiction, and Elizabeth and Darcy have very little engaging dialog together. The book is peppered with biblical quotes and religious exclamations. They could all be eliminated without changing the intent.
August 18, 2021
A good read
There's a lot going on in this book but it's all good. I like the new characters that was introduced and I can appreciate the change in the original characters. The storyline was interesting enough where it can be a series.
More Darcy and Elizabeth would have been nice. A cheer will always come from me when Charles isn't automatically forgiven just because he finally makes an appearance.
There's a lot going on in this book but it's all good. I like the new characters that was introduced and I can appreciate the change in the original characters. The storyline was interesting enough where it can be a series.
More Darcy and Elizabeth would have been nice. A cheer will always come from me when Charles isn't automatically forgiven just because he finally makes an appearance.
August 28, 2021
Amazing!
I could not put this down until it was finished. So different from other works I have read. Some elements feel a bit improbable given the time period, however I believe that given the right situation our beloved characters could become involved in a “spy- like” network or “vigilante justice league.” Very exciting! Loved the two epilogues. But I would like it more if there were a sequel to this work. Hint hint 😉
I could not put this down until it was finished. So different from other works I have read. Some elements feel a bit improbable given the time period, however I believe that given the right situation our beloved characters could become involved in a “spy- like” network or “vigilante justice league.” Very exciting! Loved the two epilogues. But I would like it more if there were a sequel to this work. Hint hint 😉
October 12, 2021
So much fun!
This was a wonderful Pride and Prejudice variation!
I dropped one star simply because it seemed a bit long winded every once in awhile, but I really don’t know what I would have left out. The characters were all wonderful and believable, and there were definitely some good twist and turns. I was completely taken by surprise when Anne first entered the library at Rosings though the secret panel!
Great fun!
This was a wonderful Pride and Prejudice variation!
I dropped one star simply because it seemed a bit long winded every once in awhile, but I really don’t know what I would have left out. The characters were all wonderful and believable, and there were definitely some good twist and turns. I was completely taken by surprise when Anne first entered the library at Rosings though the secret panel!
Great fun!
February 11, 2022
stunned I liked it!?
I’m a Devotee of P&P & variants, love regency manners, speech etc so quite nonplussed w/this such altered version but perversely kept on..& fell in love with the story line! Most likely the alternative egos of female characters drew me in, but in the end, rang true despite the quantum storyline differences. So enjoyable. Dare I HOPE FOR MORE?!?? (I dare all P&P fans-give this book a chance).
I’m a Devotee of P&P & variants, love regency manners, speech etc so quite nonplussed w/this such altered version but perversely kept on..& fell in love with the story line! Most likely the alternative egos of female characters drew me in, but in the end, rang true despite the quantum storyline differences. So enjoyable. Dare I HOPE FOR MORE?!?? (I dare all P&P fans-give this book a chance).
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