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Love's Little Helpers #2

A Perfectly (Un)timely Proposal

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He is on a mission to propose.
But the universe has other plans…

Fitzwilliam Darcy has found his perfect match in Elizabeth Bennet. Her spirited conversation, their frequent encounters at Rosings Park, and the fire in her eyes when she looks at him encourage Darcy to ask the question burning in his heart.

His words are well-rehearsed, and the moment is perfect... until a Great Dane puppy escapes from the kennel and plants her muddy paws on his brushed breeches, ruining his plans and gaining the attention of the lady he wishes to make Mrs. Darcy.

Elizabeth Bennet is grateful for the interruption. There is nothing Mr. Darcy can say that she would wish to hear.

But when he adopts the rambunctious puppy, she sees a kindness in him that challenges her opinion of the gentleman.

Will Elizabeth's dislike change by the time Darcy can finally propose? Or will their friends' well-meant interference and a Great Dane pup ruin their chance of finding love?

A Perfectly (Un)timely Proposal is a feel-good, low-angst, sweet Regency romantic comedy inspired by Jane Austen's timeless classic, Pride and Prejudice.

310 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 10, 2022

170 people are currently reading
80 people want to read

About the author

Jennifer Joy

45 books209 followers
When Jennifer isn’t busy dreaming up new adventures for her favorite characters, she is reading, baking, or chasing her twins around the park.

She believes in happy endings, sweet romance, and plenty of intrigue. She writes what she most enjoys reading, so expect lighthearted stories with happy endings and a few laughs.

Born on the beautiful Oregon coast, she traveled all around the world until she finally settled in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador with her husband and two kids.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
Profile Image for Sheila Majczan.
2,694 reviews205 followers
November 30, 2022
I received a copy of this story from BookFunnel. I am voluntarily leaving a review. I have read most of this author's stories and enjoyed all that I have read. Most are rated 5 stars by me.

In this rom-com, Darcy finds his plans to propose interrupted several times. The first time involves a Great Dane at Rosings. Will finds himself "adopting" the puppy with plans to train him. He does so partly because he can see that such would please Miss Elizabeth. Thus we read over and over again actions on Ruby's/the dog's part. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Bingley are also significant figures in this story. Bingley's part is not too far from canon. One difference is that Bingley has advice to offer Darcy about how to tell Elizabeth his feeling and to propose.

The Colonel's part includes his guilt in sending a letter to his (and Darcy's) aunt, Lady Catherine. This, of course, brings her to Hertfordshire and Darcy soon learns just how Elizabeth might be treated by society if he marries her.

There are several situations from canon which come up: the fault Darcy owns in separating Jane and Bingley and then the part Wickham plays, which has a different result as we see Mr. Bennet, finally, taking a hand in guiding his daughters.

I enjoyed and highly recommend this story.
Profile Image for Debbie.
1,682 reviews81 followers
September 29, 2022
5+ stars!

Once again, Ms. Joy has hit a grand slam. This book boasts a great story, wonderful characterizations, spellbinding storytelling, and laugh-out-loud humor - scoring in all four attributes.

There's lots of puppy love here. We have an actual puppy, Ruby, a swiftly growing Great Dane who adores both Darcy and Elizabeth and is an unwitting instrument bringing the two together at various points throughout the book. In the beginning, Ruby gives Darcy a huge assist by disrupting what would've been the usual Hunsford marriage proposal. Although miffed at first- especially since he has a longstanding terror of full-grown Great Danes- Darcy comes to appreciate her interruption when he gets talking later with Colonel Fitzwilliam, who convinces him that Elizabeth ISN'T expecting a marriage proposal and probably doesn't even like him.

When he sees her the next day hoping for a new beginning with her, they argue instead, and he realizes how low Elizabeth's opinion truly is. Then they overhear the Rosings gameskeeper instructing the kennel keeper to kill Ruby. Darcy is the only one who can save the pup by adopting her...so he does. And thereby scores some much needed points in his favor with Elizabeth.

That's the first step to Elizabeth's eyes gradually being opened to the Darcy his friends know him to be: loyal, trustworthy, and thoroughly admirable. Although the romance between Darcy and Elizabeth remains front and center throughout, the "bromance" among Darcy, Bingley, and Colonel Fitzwilliam is constantly present. It's a tribute to the author that each one exudes a distinct personality. They tweak and tease each other mercilessly but always have the other guys' backs - like brothers. Darcy is acknowledged as the brainy one, but he's dismayed that Bingley gets forgiveness and his girl a lot faster. Colonel Fitzwilliam is the jokester and the strategizer, though his plans don't always go as he intended.

The plot is perfectly executed, showing the reader what we need to know without any irrelevant tangents, mingling the scenes together cohesively. The dialogue sounds natural. All the characters feel real. The humor is slice-of-life stuff - things going wrong in ridiculous ways, people laughing with each other and laughing at themselves. The obstacles aren't huge, but Darcy does have his hurdles to clear, with a little help (and sometimes some well-intentioned hindrance) from his two amigos and Ruby.

Highly recommend! Content is clean.

I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Ree.
1,336 reviews80 followers
March 14, 2022
Another Gem from Jennifer Joy
From the beginning dialogue between Darcy and his mirror—yes, I said mirror—to the happy ending, you’ll be captivated and tickled by all the banter among the characters, along with the puppy antics of a charming four-legged little miss who unknowingly interrupts Darcy’s well-planned and rehearsed proposal at Hunsford with an escape and muddy paws. This will not be the only time Darcy’s proposal gets interrupted.

Unlike Darcy, Richard is aware of Darcy’s ignorance to the fact Elizabeth has no regard for him, and is feeling guilty for revealing Darcy’s participation in separating Bingley from Jane. Thinking about Darcy’s situation and, without a war to fight, Richard becomes a Contriver-in-Chief of sorts, determined to aid Darcy in his endeavour to win Elizabeth’s hand.

“He could think of no battle more worthy than helping his favorite cousin, his closest friend, win the heart of a worthy woman.”—quote from book

You’ll enjoy Bingley’s counter argument to Darcy’s apology, Charlotte’s banter with Elizabeth at Hunsford Cottage and, Elizabeth’s futile attempts to hide and deny her interest in Darcy to others—and to herself.

“Pretending a renewed interest in her novel, Elizabeth shoved the book in front of her face and attempted to discern how many pairs of footsteps followed the butler up the steps.”—quote from book

I particularly enjoyed one of the most clever “truth-about-Wickham” reveals I have read to date. Well done, Ms. Joy!

There’s a tiny touch of angst when Richard’s scheming goes slightly awry at the end, but this truly feel-good story will keep you entertained from cover to cover. This delightfully engaging novel is everything Jennifer Joy promised it would be in her book description. The writing is brilliant and I highly recommend this gem. I only wish I could give it more than five stars.

I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily offering my review.

I purchased the published Kindle version of this book and was gifted an audiobook version.

March 14, 2022 - Audiobook
Stevie Zimmerman’s narration and performance is excellent as always. There are a few minor audio glitches towards the end, but they don’t skip content.
Profile Image for Les.
2,911 reviews1 follower
April 3, 2022
Dear book

it's not you; it's me. I went on an unhealthy P&P binge and toward the end (this book) they all started to blur together and give me a headache

So this book starts at Rosings and the DP@H is interrupted by a Great Dane Puppy

Darcy is terrified of Great Danes even when they are puppies

So the proposal never happens and Darcy becomes aware of Lizzy's dislike thanks to Col. Fitzwilliam so he writes her a letter which the puppy eats (good Puppy)

Darcy agrees to adopt the puppy which Lizzy has names Ruby upon learning the puppy is set to be destroyed as she is deaf.

The Puppy allow Darcy and Lizzy to have lots of mad cap adventures

Profile Image for Sheila Majczan.
2,694 reviews205 followers
April 14, 2022
I have reviewed this story in its Kindle version. I just wanted to add that I also listened to this story in its Audible form. The narrator, Stevie Zimmerman, has an excellent reputation which is well deserved. I listened to this mostly while grocery shopping and thus it took me longer to finish it.

In this rom-com, Darcy finds his plans to propose interrupted several times. The first time involves a Great Dane at Rosings. Will finds himself "adopting" the puppy with plans to train him. He does so partly because he can see that such would please Miss Elizabeth. Thus we read over and over again actions on Ruby's/the dog's part. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Bingley are also significant figures in this story. Bingley's part is not too far from canon. One difference is that Bingley has advice to offer Darcy about how to tell Elizabeth his feeling and to propose.

The Colonel's part includes his guilt in sending a letter to his (and Darcy's) aunt, Lady Catherine. This, of course, brings her to Hertfordshire and Darcy soon learns just how Elizabeth might be treated by society if he marries her.

There are several situations from canon which come up: the fault Darcy owns in separating Jane and Bingley and then the part Wickham plays, which has a different result as we see Mr. Bennet, finally, taking a hand in guiding his daughters.

I enjoyed and highly recommend this story.
901 reviews70 followers
February 8, 2022

My Rating: 4.5*

"Come, Darcy, you take yourself too seriously. You have been anxious lately, and I only meant to lighten your mood." (quote from the book)

Quick! Grab a leash for there is one adorable rambunctious puppy on the loose! Make sure you have some treats in your pocket to garner her attention and her heart! And just like Mr. Darcy, don't expect to come away unscathed. The feathers do fly in this one!

This is another delightful variation from the creative mind of Ms. Joy. Poor Mr. Darcy is very anxious and wishing to propose to Elizabeth Bennet while she is visiting Mrs. Collins. Little does he know that Miss Bennet is not favourably inclined towards him. Fortunately, Miss Ruby comes to his rescue...slobber, mud and all...several times!

"The master of Pemberley had been practicing all day, working himself into a mass of nerves he had never experienced before and wished never to feel again." (quote from the book)

I thoroughly enjoyed this variation. I loved the flow, banter and witticisms throughout. I also enjoyed the unique twist in the Lydia/Wickham situation. I enjoyed Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Bingley joining forces to help save Mr. Darcy from himself. Ah, the best laid plans of mice and men!

"He could think of no battle more worthy than helping his favorite cousin, his closest friend, win the heart of a worthy woman." (quote from the book)

I highly recommend this diverting tale! I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced reader copy from the author with no expectation for a review.
Profile Image for Jennifer Joy.
Author 45 books209 followers
Read
February 22, 2022
Looks like someone's going to get a puppy 😄

Miss Ruby has Darcy wrapped around her not-so-little paw💖 She's excited to meet you!
6 more days!
US: https://amzn.to/3GhYMZ7
UK: www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09RKLY7LS
Everywhere Else: mybook.to/PerfectlyUntimely

🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡

Oh boy... there's nothing like talking about the weather to set a lady's heart aflutter🤣

Want a sneak peek at the first chapter?
Here you go: https://jenniferjoywrites.com

🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡

Coming in February!

What if Mr. Darcy's infamous Rosings proposal was interrupted… by a puppy?

A low-angst, feel-good romantic comedy featuring:
🧡 lots of teasing banter
💙a "helpful" Colonel Fitzwilliam
💖a sweet, clever Great Dane puppy
💜a macaron-addicted Bingley
💚a terrifying, territorial gaggle of geese
💛a bacon-scented Darcy

Cover Reveal next week!!!
Profile Image for Sam H..
1,225 reviews60 followers
July 25, 2024
Darcy is in a fix. He is desperately in love with Elizabeth and wants to propose. However, he is thwarted at every chance, mainly by a rapidly growing, but very cute pooch.

And thank goodness Miss Ruby did! When he learned Elizabeth is not expecting his addresses let alone even likes him, he is dumbfounded.

Richard and Bingley make it their mission to assist him in his quest, adding Jane to their team. Sometimes their little set ups are actually successful, others- backfire big time!

The Wickham/Lydia scenario was very well done. They were caught out while still in Meryton and Mr. Bennet steps up and takes charge (Yay!) also providing a leading lady for Col. F.

A completely enjoyable story, with this author's trademark pithy dialog. The bromance comraderie definitely steals the show, imho. Well, together with a Great Dane puppy who adores Darcy (sigh).

I found myself losing concentration near the end, probably just wanting ODC to finally declare their love.

4.5* The perfect fun read, featuring ODC and a huge puppy!

I received an ARC and am providing my honest review.
Profile Image for Madenna U.
2,149 reviews1 follower
February 8, 2022
Fitzwilliam Darcy walks to Hunsford to ask Elizabeth Bennet, the woman he "loves", to marry him but luckily is prevented from doing so by a large Great Dane puppy. The delay leads Darcy to some startling revelations, most importantly that Elizabeth doesn't even like him.

Darcy will do anything to win the girl, even saving the large puppy whose breed he has a bit of a bad history with. His friends, without his knowledge, are helping him woo the girl as well. With all this unintended help, which leads to a lot of humor, he works hard to show Elizabeth that he is someone worth loving. All the antics help them discover who each other really is and how deep their feelings, leading to a wonderful happily ever after.

As usual with this author, I found myself loving the characters. I lost myself in the pages based on how Fitzwilliam Darcy's thoughts and feelings were expressed. He is so earnest for what he wants. The care that he shows for the puppy alone just makes me want to melt. I could not put it down.

The author gave me an early copy of this book with no promise of a review, good or bad.
3,466 reviews42 followers
February 12, 2022
Lovely Pride and Prejudice variation

Darcy's Hunsford proposal is interrupted due to the antics of Ruby, a well-meaning puppy who ruins his attire. Darcy is afraid of Great Danes but because Elizabeth seems to like the dog, Darcy offers to take on the education of the deaf canine. The Colonel attempts to matchmake between Darcy and Elizabeth, and Ruby has more contributions to their romance.

This was just a well written, perfectly polished, low-angst story with wonderful dialogue and some lovely scenes. I enjoyed it a lot.
Profile Image for J. W. Garrett.
1,736 reviews137 followers
February 10, 2022
“Whoever said you can’t buy Happiness forgot little puppies.” –Gene Hill

>>Rating: Clean: Recommend especially for dog lovers. No offense to cats and those that love them.
>>Angst Level: low-to-medium due to lovers’ angst: the villains were less villainy and really were only a nuisance. Mr. Bennet finally came out of his book room. OMG! The fur certainly flew at Longbourn [no pun intended].
>>Source: I received an ARC [2-4-22] via Booksprout with no expectations of a review. The views and opinions expressed are my own and freely given.
>>Timeline: Kent prior to the DHP [Disastrous-Hunsford-Proposal].

SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***

“Dogs are our link to paradise. They don’t know evil or jealousy or discontent. To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring—it was peace.” –Milan Kundera

I love it when authors add a new twist to the P&P story and Jennifer Joy has done just that. What a delightful story. I absolutely fell in love with the Great Dane Ruby. What on earth could such a dog add to Austen’s beloved story, you ask? Oh-My-Goodness… she added so much, I can’t say without giving a spoiler.

“Don’t waste your time in anger, regrets, worries, and grudges. Life is too short to be unhappy.” –Roy T. Bennett

Darcy was the dense lover who thought Miss Elizabeth had the same feelings for him as he had for her. That is… until he saw her again in Kent. Oh, how the mighty did fall. He had no clue. Elizabeth would have had him for lunch if his proposal had not been interrupted by a Great Dane puppy the size of a small horse. He soon discovered there was a LOT of ground that needed to be made up in order to secure Miss Elizabeth’s hand… um… approbation. And that was the rest of the story. Him making repairs to his horrid behavior to her, her sister and Mr. Bingley, the Bennet family, the town of Meryton… you know the whole of England.

“All his life he tried to be a good person. Many times, however, he failed. For, after all, he was only human. He wasn’t a dog.” –Charles M. Schulz

It was cute and Darcy’s cousin Richard was right in the middle of all the planning to get Miss Elizabeth and Darcy together. Oh, that was hilarious as Richard’s plans crashed and burned around him. His cohort, Bingley was not much better. They were constantly coming up with a new plan.
Profile Image for Gill M.
373 reviews27 followers
February 15, 2022
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...

Fitzwilliam Darcy, a man of consequence and riches, is in love with Elizabeth Bennet. He has overcome his many reservations about the match (her vulgar family, lack of fortune and connexions) and is about to propose.

Unfortunately, unbeknownst to him, Elizabeth Bennet is not in love with him. In fact she despises him for his involvement in separating her sister, Jane from his friend, Bingley.

As Darcy attempts to propose, the universe steps in to delay him. An escaped Great Dane puppy interrupts. Darcy has a longstanding aversion to the breed.
Elizabeth is enchanted and christens her Ruby.

Next day, Darcy looks for another opportunity to speak to Elizabeth.
Ruby causes a distraction of a more perilous nature.
The gamekeeper feels Ruby can’t be trained, so is planning to destroy her. Elizabeth and Darcy are horrified. Darcy makes a spur of the moment decision to adopt her.
This action impresses Elizabeth and makes her start to re-evaluate her view of Darcy.

There are further meetings in London, where Darcy tries to woo Elizabeth and Ruby does her best to help.

Will Darcy finally get his chance to propose and what will Elizabeth’s answer be?

This book is wonderful. Ruby (known to all as Miss Ruby, as a proper young lady should be) is adorable.
She rapidly steals her way into Fitzwilliam’s heart, house, bed and pockets!

Fitzwilliam is quick to acknowledge his mistakes and works so hard to make up for them. His relationship with Ruby is a joy to read.

Elizabeth finds his kindness and willingness to improve makes him increasingly appealing.

I heartily recommend that you read this, it is delightful.

I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1,382 reviews10 followers
February 3, 2022
I truly enjoyed this heartwarming
& intriguing book.
It had me smiling while reading.
The loved the telling of this
Pride & Prejudice variation story.
Learning the true value of a person.
Engaged me from page one.
You will fall in love with Ruby!
RECOMMEND!!
Profile Image for Suzan Lauder.
Author 13 books83 followers
February 21, 2022
Jennifer Joy writes perfectly charming books, and this was one of them. She didn't allow herself to get caught in the trope of having the dog match the couple or get into farcical situations with the couple and the dog, which had worried me. Instead, the dog is a new character that works well with the canon characters and helps them to realize their issues.

Enough of that. My reviews aren't about the synopsis or the spoilers, rather, they're about the technical issues that sit behind the scenes and annoy the reader into knocking off a star. Other reviewers blow past these issues and only comment on the plot.

Speaking of plot, it's well done, fresh, and pretty free of contrivances that would annoy, such as those listed in the first paragraph of this review. We have a complete story arc free of plot holes. There's a side story with villains near the end that could have been cut, though.

The story pace is good--it moves quickly as it has a nice balance of narrative and dialogue, and that dialogue is snappy. It includes some of the best proposal wording I've ever read in JAFF.

Point of view is, for the most part, wonderfully done in third person deep point of view, changing at scene breaks or chapter breaks. However, there is a short, strange section of head-hopping immediately following the proposal scene. Go figure.

Language is good, having a Regency feel to it and breaking the feel with the following non-Regency words usage or application: compromise, doffed, rambunctious, scanned, roiled, and hostess. This is a very short list for a JAFF. Non-canon use of "Darce" and "break his fast" grated as well as American uses of "you shall," "it shall," and toward. There were no typos, punctuation errors, or contractions found, so the editing otherwise was superb.

A few filter words were used, pulling the reader out of the deep point of view by telling and not showing. Most of the book used showing as a technique, though.

The author used parenthesis in fiction, which is a no-no. Em-dashes, commas, or separated sentences are used for parenthetical statements in fiction, depending on the drama you wish the statement to make, or how different it is from the surrounding text.

Characters were good, particularly the new character of Ruby and the expanded character of Colonel Fitzwilliam. Some unnecessary villains were introduced near the end of the book--this was almost like a side scene that didn't help the main plot. I found the way the protagonists were shown was one of my favourite Darcy and Elizabeths in a long time. Joy captured good points from Austen's portrayal and used the favourably for this book, applying them with a skilled hand to work into the numerous changes and twists in the plot.

The dramatic tension was low for the most part, but there were times when the angst trickled up to moderate.

Scene-setting was excellent, and it was an interesting scene-setting, as it was lively as well as vigorous to go with the pace of the novel. I liked the recurrence of the macarons as one of the themes, as well as Darcy's messed trousers. (Are those little spoilers?)

The pace of the romance was one of the best I've seen in JAFF. It was developed appropriately and the drama was worked into the tension between the protagonists. The romance rang true as a result, and the reader had the immense satisfaction of one of the better happy endings of a book I've read in a while.

I don't care for the cover. It uses those terrible models that everyone else uses and doesn't stand out except for the dog. I wish Jennifer Joy would find a new cover artist, because those cover models are too trite. They just don't shout "Buy me!"

One of the biggest troubles I had with this book is it was so smooth that, aside from certain plot points, the story is somewhat forgettable. No great villainous lines keep it alive in the reader's mind.

In sum, this remains an exceptional novel from a technical standpoint because it has minimized errors that other authors make and maximized on key items such as amazing prose for the proposal scene, a perfectly developed story arc for the romance, and avoidance of tropes that could have made it silly, and rather, utilized the dog as an excellent side character. Jennifer Joy's talent is expanding with every novel she writes.

Disclaimer: I am a JAFF author, and some might say this review is a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. They are written for the benefit of the reader and the author.
Profile Image for Barb.
521 reviews50 followers
February 19, 2022
I have been a fan of Jennifer Joy from the beginning. I really love her Mr. Darcy. He is a socially flawed man with too high of an opinion of his wealth and influence. But, basically, he’s a kind man with a large sense of his responsibility for keeping the world in order. In “A Perfectly (Un)timely Proposal” he, luckily, has assistance from a Great Dane puppy and his friends to prevent him proposing before Elizabeth Bennet has had a chance to see the latter and change her perception of him from seeing only the former in his original stay at Netherfield.

As the description indicates, Darcy is at Hunsford parsonage just beginning his ill-fated proposal when he is interrupted by an unruly Great Dane puppy who eventually is named Ruby by Elizabeth. This distraction, along with the kennel keeper and the game keeper seeking the puppy, prevent him from his intended offensive proposal. Frustrated he returns to Rosings Park to finally become aware, from Colonel Fitzwilliam, that he most likely would have been refused anyway as Elizabeth does not like him.

The following morning Darcy and Elizabeth meet again regarding the fate of Ruby and their argument over Jane and Bingley helps him to finally realize the hole he has dug for himself in winning her. He determines he will overcome her dislike and his first step will be in taking responsibility for training Ruby. His second will be to assist Bingley in reconciling with Jane. Aware of his plan, Colonel Fitzwilliam returns to London with Darcy convinced this will be great amusement, and that Darcy is in tremendous need of his and Bingley’s help. Thus, the adventure begins. Can Darcy win Elizabeth’s heart? Or, will his plans be spoiled by an ungainly puppy and/or his best friends?

The story is light and enjoyable. Darcy’s awkwardness, Ruby’s antics, and the best laid plans of Bingley and Fitzwilliam provide plenty of amusement. As per usual in Pride and Prejudice variations George Wickham and Lady Catherine de Bourgh also are in great form, throwing their machinations into the game. The angst is minor, the characters charming and happy endings abound.

Sometimes you just need a light, sweet, amusing P&P variation. “A Perfectly (Un)timely Proposal” fits the bill. I enjoyed it and recommend it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Michelle David.
2,557 reviews14 followers
February 6, 2022
An absolutely delightful and amusingly enjoyable romp of a variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by the talented Jennifer Joy. I received a free copy from Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
111 reviews5 followers
February 8, 2022
Mr. Darcy and Miss Ruby – the true love story

It is a truth literarily not acknowledged that the aloof and sometimes even haughty Fitzwilliam Darcy has a disturbing weakness: his soft heart. You frown? Then read this – once more – excellently written book about emotions and several love stories of different colours. The book is also humorous, witty and low-angst (good for people like me). Try it!
An advice: Start reading in the morning because you don’t want to interrupt because you really need some sleep.
I was lucky to get a copy in advance!
522 reviews2 followers
February 11, 2022
I didn't want it to end.

Humor, wit, romance, friendships, satire, and lots of love as Darcy finds himself put off over and over again until he finds exactly the right time to propose. Assisted by an adorable puppy, Darcy learns to laugh at himself, while Elizabeth learns to see the real Darcy. Wickham learns his lessons in a new way. A joy to read, this one will be a favorite for me.
2 reviews
February 6, 2022
I've enjoyed all of Jennifer Joy's books, and this is no exception.

I enjoy reading JAFF variations from Mr. Darcy's POV. He's so delightfully clumsy, clueless, and endearing.

This story had a lot of laugh out loud moments and great dialog between the characters. Also, the puppy was adorable!

This was a clean, funny, and enjoyable story and a must-read for those looking for another great P&P variation.

I'm voluntarily leaving this review. I received a free advanced copy.
Profile Image for Lisa Hatfield.
11 reviews1 follower
February 5, 2022
This is a definite five-star read!!!! Once I started reading this lovely story, I couldn't put it down and had read it straight through. Darcy, Bingley, Richard Fitzwilliam, Elizabeth, and Jane were all multidimensional characters that the author made come alive with her lovely written words!! Yet, the absolute star of this lovely story is Miss Ruby!!! Miss Ruby will quickly worm her way into your heart with her sweet demeanor, and playful antics. POTENTIAL SPOILERS AHEAD: Miss Ruby is a Great Dane puppy - spirited, loving, protective, and inquisitive. Miss Ruby inadvertently prevents Darcy from proposing at Hunsford, and thus Darcy avoids the set down Elizabeth delivered to him in Cannon. Richard's role in exposing Darcy's role in separating Bingley and Jane is revealed to Elizabeth early on in the story. Richard confesses to Darcy that he told Elizabeth. Once Richard realizes just how much Darcy loves Elizabeth, he becomes determined to assist Darcy to achieve his HEA. With military precision, he charts a course to help Darcy win his lady love. Darcy and Richard begin by helping to reunite Bingley and Jane. Richard then enlists Jane and Bingley with helping Darcy win Elizabeth. Miss Ruby helps Elizabeth see just how kind and caring Darcy is. END SPOILERS: This is truly one of those stories that will resonate with me for a very long time. It is an EXTREMELY well-written book. I highly, HIGHLY recommend it!!! Truly deserving of five stars!!!
23 reviews1 follower
February 5, 2022
I may have devoured this book in less than a day. It was light and pleasing with just right amount of drama to make it satisfying. Much like Bingley’s favorite dessert which was featured often throughout the story. I really loved the use of a large dog this time to move the plot along. Being a large dog owner myself I can relate to many of the situations that Darcy found himself in. Though Miss Ruby was in a league of her own in timing!

One my favorite aspects of this story is the relationship between Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Bingley. It is a love story with friendship at its core. All the key characters are there and all of the main elements. The locations and the timing were played with to make it feel new. I look forward to the next book by this author. I pre ordered this book before getting the arc on Booksprout and I am glad I did. I will enjoy having an actual copy of the book to read again in my library!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1 review
February 6, 2022
I've enjoyed every book I've read by Jennifer Joy and this one is no exception. Light-hearted and sweet, we get to see insight into the character of both Elizabeth and Darcy. The Colonel is a main character and certainly adds humor to the story. No major chaos for our couple in this one, but the addition of a delightful canine character is a twist that will bring a few smiles to the reader. I wouldn't have minded if the book was longer!

The Colonel is in instigator, Bingley plays along, the great dane charms everyone. Darcy and Elizabeth look closely at themselves and Wickham gets his due in a way I haven't seen before. A sweet, clean reimagining of our dear couple's courtship.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
461 reviews
February 20, 2022
a huge puppy helps Darcy grow

Darcy finds that Elizabeth’s compassion for a deaf puppy makes him decide to bring the puppy into in home. The puppy training and events help Darcy grow into a better man. His cousin the colonel brings Bingley into his plans help Darcy overcome certain aspects of Darcy’s personality. Elizabeth learns the truth about wickham and takes action.
I was impressed the ending was longer than just a wedding. However I really would have liked more.
Profile Image for Linda Bryson.
2 reviews1 follower
February 6, 2022
This is a book that you will not be able to put down. Will Darcy and Elizabeth find their happy ending? Wickham gets just what he deserves and several familiar characters are expanded in ways not thought of before. This is a story that warms your heart, has you getting frustrated and even has you shed a tear. All because a lovely pup comes to the rescue! A must read for every Pride and Prejudice fan.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Adriana.
122 reviews3 followers
February 12, 2022
The Mr. Darcy's Hunsford proposal is interrupted by an unruly Great Dane puppy, whom Elizabeth immediately takes a liking to.
In an act of impulse, to impress Elizabeth, Mr. Darcy decides to train the undisciplined animal, named Ruby.
Little does he know that Ruby, in addition to saving Darcy from himself in that first moment, will help him show his more favorable side, so that he can try to conquer his beloved Elizabeth.
A lovely variation of Pride and Prejudice.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for wosedwew.
1,337 reviews125 followers
February 10, 2022
Great Danes. Proceed with caution. You may experience sheer happiness and extreme love. You could develop Dane Brain as well which will cause your life to revolve around Danes. There is no cure. ~ Author Unknown

Well, after all, she told him to practice: Fitzwilliam Darcy cleared his throat and regarded his reflection in the mirror. Lifting his chin, his posture exuding supreme confidence (but which had maddeningly failed to mollify his nerves since his arrival at Rosings), he practiced once again. “I trust your family is in good health?”

And practice he does. He believes he is ready to approach the object of his affection. He is at the parsonage when disaster strikes in the person of a Great Dane puppy.

Any man who hates babies and dogs can’t be all bad. ~ Leo Rosten

How about a man who hates baby dogs? Elizabeth Bennet certainly believes he is all — or mostly — bad. She has no knowledge of his Great Dane experience.

Quote from the book: Darcy seethed, “He tore into my… flesh.” He observed the grin creeping up Richard’s face and knew he had swallowed his cousin’s bait. Blast the infernal man.
“And you still have the scar, I presume, to prove it!” Richard guffawed like a ninnyhammer. “Pray do not show me, I beg you.”
As if Darcy would.
“Perhaps I shall mention the incident at dinner. See how Mr. Collins pontificates on the merits of turning the other cheek.”

Things that upset a Terrier may pass virtually unnoticed by a Great Dane. ~ Smiley Blanton

The proposal does not happen but Darcy is forced to rescue the naughty pup. The things that man will do for the woman he loves!

I always enjoy a peek at the relationship between a gentleman and his gentleman’s gentleman. Chalmers is up for a few good chortles: Chalmers leaned in — loyal eavesdropping spy that he was.

Some of my best leading men have been dogs and horses. ~ Elizabeth Taylor

I loved this light-hearted, charming story. I recommend it, even if you don’t like dogs.

The author gave me an early copy of this book with no promise of a review.

Great Danes: too big to take offense and too noble to give it. ~ Author Unknown
1,200 reviews30 followers
February 14, 2022
Delightful and fun

The story begins at Rosings Park, Elizabeth is visiting Charlotte at the Hunsford parsonage, and Darcy has just made the difficult decision to propose marriage to Elizabeth. Elizabeth has just had a conversation with Colonel Fitzwilliam, during which Elizabeth discovers that it was Darcy who was principally responsible for separating Jane and Bingley, so her opinion of Darcy is at its worst. Darcy's proposal is fortunately interrupted by an escaped Great Dane puppy.

Dogs, cats, birds, and any other type of pet animal are sure to be irresistible in a story. In this one, Darcy has a deep seated fear of Great Danes specifically, due to a childhood incident. This weakness in an otherwise proud and stiff man renders him endearingly vulnerable and more human. While he starts out being particularly insufferable, he quickly becomes swoon worthy, a man so in love that he'll conquer his greatest fears just to please Elizabeth. It's great fun to see Darcy's gradual conversion from fearful dog hater to affectionate dog lover.

This is one of those wonderful stories where Elizabeth and Darcy have discussions. Colonel Fitzwilliam figures strongly into the story, and I love his role. He's the voice of sense for Darcy throughout. Elizabeth is as we love to see her: feisty, courageous, witty, intelligent and compassionate. There are the usual villains, but they don't have much traction here. The story is low angst, and the romance is lovely.

The book is well written and well edited. This author is pretty much an automatic purchase for me. She uses a subtle humor that is much appreciated. I recommend it highly.
68 reviews
February 27, 2022
Entertaining story of ODC and Miss Ruby. Was always looking forward to reading the next mischief/blunder that kept interrupting ODC's special moments, especially the one that involved Miss Ruby. Love the realistic development of Lizzy's change of heart/feelings and the way Wickham got what he deserved without him truly causing a havoc.

One will enjoy this low angst, clean and comical P & P variation.Highly recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lesly Sarabia.
578 reviews30 followers
November 3, 2022
En realidad es un 4.5
Me encantó.
Los últimos JAFF que leí fueron una buena manera de pasar el rato pero no los disfruté del todo. Sin embargo, éste libro me ha enganchado de principio a fin, sentí como si estuviera leyendo al Mr. Darcy y a la Elizabeth originales.
Hubo varias escenas muy bonitas y Ruby se ganó por completo mi corazón. Mi única queja es que sólo tuvimos una escena de Elizabeth interactuando con Georgina, pero en general el libro estuvo muy bien. Lo recomiendo.
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