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Gallant Mr. Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Darcy rescues Elizabeth from a cruel fate and seeks to protect her from ruin. Will Darcy be forced to face the gallows to save Elizabeth?
Elizabeth thought Wickham to be among the best of men, but she soon discovered he was among the worst. Her poor opinion of haughty Mr. Darcy is also dramatically and irrevocably changed to one of admiration.
Bingley returns from London after Darcy is injured by Wickham. As he pines for Jane Bennet, how will Bingley support his close friend who stands accused of a capital crime?
Darcy seeks to shield Elizabeth from ruin and ridicule, even as he realizes that he is drawn to her sparkling intellect and fine eyes. But will protecting his love cost him everything?
Elizabeth thought Wickham to be among the best of men, but she soon discovered he was among the worst. Her poor opinion of haughty Mr. Darcy is also dramatically and irrevocably changed to one of admiration.
Bingley returns from London after Darcy is injured by Wickham. As he pines for Jane Bennet, how will Bingley support his close friend who stands accused of a capital crime?
Darcy seeks to shield Elizabeth from ruin and ridicule, even as he realizes that he is drawn to her sparkling intellect and fine eyes. But will protecting his love cost him everything?
402 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 17, 2022
129 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
About the author
Laraba Kendig
44 books107 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 34 reviews
March 28, 2022
The story description led me to anticipate more drama, more angst. Overall it was a pleasant story. The beginning sets the stage. There is no build up to the main event. Elizabeth, the morning after the Netherfield Ball goes for one of her usual walks but on this occasion encounters Wickham. Wickham was returning by stage from London when the coach broke down and he decides to walk the rest of the way to his post. He has been drinking and when he meets up with Elizabeth on her walk he assaults her. However, Darcy is also out, riding, and he hears Elizabeth's screams and hurries to her rescue.
I won't describe what happens but both Darcy and his horse are stabbed. Wickham dies. A good part of the story deals with the decisions not to relate all that happened due to the fact that Elizabeth and thus her family would be ruined if the attack is fully reported. Few are told the complete truth. And when the Magistrate holds his hearing there is no lie told, only limited bits of the truth. Justice does prevail.
Three Bennet daughters have attachments in this story although the epilogue marries off the other two. Lady Catherine huffs and puffs but her daughter, Anne, moves away from her and transforms her life and gains control over Rosings. Yes, Collins is part of the story but with the right (and different) wife he also learns to stand up to Lady C. Mr. Bennet grows a set (,..applauding) and Lydia finally learns what "no" means. Bingley also develops a bit of a backbone.
This was a pleasant read. There is a long epilogue which goes a number of years into the future, reporting on a number of children, several marriages and two deaths.
I won't describe what happens but both Darcy and his horse are stabbed. Wickham dies. A good part of the story deals with the decisions not to relate all that happened due to the fact that Elizabeth and thus her family would be ruined if the attack is fully reported. Few are told the complete truth. And when the Magistrate holds his hearing there is no lie told, only limited bits of the truth. Justice does prevail.
Three Bennet daughters have attachments in this story although the epilogue marries off the other two. Lady Catherine huffs and puffs but her daughter, Anne, moves away from her and transforms her life and gains control over Rosings. Yes, Collins is part of the story but with the right (and different) wife he also learns to stand up to Lady C. Mr. Bennet grows a set (,..applauding) and Lydia finally learns what "no" means. Bingley also develops a bit of a backbone.
This was a pleasant read. There is a long epilogue which goes a number of years into the future, reporting on a number of children, several marriages and two deaths.
March 20, 2022
drunk Wickham causes trouble
In the first chapter a drunk Wickham, after the Bingley ball, causes trouble. This is the change in the story causing all sorts of new situations to be resolved. A perfectly logical change in the story which makes for a fun story to read.
No more hints from here except to say my favorite new character is Darcy’s 🐴 horse.
In the first chapter a drunk Wickham, after the Bingley ball, causes trouble. This is the change in the story causing all sorts of new situations to be resolved. A perfectly logical change in the story which makes for a fun story to read.
No more hints from here except to say my favorite new character is Darcy’s 🐴 horse.
August 29, 2024
Great story
I enjoyed it a lot. Elizabeth and Darcy's relationship was very well written and I loved this Darcy. Highly recommended.
I enjoyed it a lot. Elizabeth and Darcy's relationship was very well written and I loved this Darcy. Highly recommended.
March 18, 2022
I read this as a WIP. It's quite a nice story and I liked the quick way Elizabeth's eyes were opened to Wickham's general ickiness and Darcy's decent nature. Although after the blurb said Darcy might face the gallows I was expecting a bit more suspense or courtroom drama about that. Maybe some dramatic testimony from the Bennets or something. But it didn't feel like he was ever in much danger.
March 17, 2022
lovely
Another wonderfully lovely and action packed variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Laraba Kendig.
Another wonderfully lovely and action packed variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Laraba Kendig.
March 18, 2022
Very interesting story
I'm pleased with this story which is about the aftermath of a vicious attack on Elizabeth Bennet by an intoxicated Wickham when she was walking the morning after Bingley had his ball. Mr Darcy was able to save her but he and his horse were injured by Wickham. The horse put an end to Wickham and essentially saved Darcy's life. In an attempt to protect the Bennet girls reputation Darcy's decision is to not mention she was there to the magistrate.. Elizabeth decides that if his life is at risk she's going to inform the Court of her involvement.
The remaining story is about the effect that attack has on everyone. Mr Bennet is finally afraid for his daughters. Charles is afraid of losing Jane by his inaction. Elizabeth is afraid Darcy's going to hang. Anne is afraid she won't be able to stand up against her mother. Everyone is afraid that Kitty and Lydia are headed for disaster because of their behaviors. And then, Mrs Bennet is afraid of those hedgerows!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story and recommend it highly!
I'm pleased with this story which is about the aftermath of a vicious attack on Elizabeth Bennet by an intoxicated Wickham when she was walking the morning after Bingley had his ball. Mr Darcy was able to save her but he and his horse were injured by Wickham. The horse put an end to Wickham and essentially saved Darcy's life. In an attempt to protect the Bennet girls reputation Darcy's decision is to not mention she was there to the magistrate.. Elizabeth decides that if his life is at risk she's going to inform the Court of her involvement.
The remaining story is about the effect that attack has on everyone. Mr Bennet is finally afraid for his daughters. Charles is afraid of losing Jane by his inaction. Elizabeth is afraid Darcy's going to hang. Anne is afraid she won't be able to stand up against her mother. Everyone is afraid that Kitty and Lydia are headed for disaster because of their behaviors. And then, Mrs Bennet is afraid of those hedgerows!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story and recommend it highly!
December 21, 2023
Too many anachronisms. Did the author do any research on the Regency period at all? Wrist watches, veterinarians, hot chocolate are just a few of the errors in this book. Misuse of the term commoner.
I finished it but probably won’t bother with anything else by this author.>>>
Famous last words. I’ve been reading her and she’s improved on the historical accuracy somewhat.
I finished it but probably won’t bother with anything else by this author.>>>
Famous last words. I’ve been reading her and she’s improved on the historical accuracy somewhat.
March 28, 2022
I'm always a fan of Laraba Kendig's pride and prejudice variations. I liked this one a lot. The suspense around the murder trial and then the courtship between Darcy and Elizabeth... It was all enjoyable. I like how creative she is with the possibilities of the original Pride and Prejudice story.
April 3, 2022
Wonderful
This author never disappoints, and has become an automatic purchase for me. The story begins the day after the Netherfield ball. Elizabeth takes her usual morning walk, encounters Wickham, and greets him cheerfully, not knowing that he's drunk and in a bad mood. He assaults Elizabeth, and she screams as he's trying to force himself on her. Darcy is out for a ride on his horse, hears the scream, and finds Elizabeth struggling against Wickham. An altercation ensues involving all three of them during which Wickham pulls a knife, stabs Darcy in the arm, and stabs his horse, resulting in the animal trampling Wickham and killing him. Darcy's main concern becomes saving Elizabeth's reputation, so he insists that she leave the scene and let him deal with the aftermath without involving her name in any way. After some resistance, Elizabeth agrees, but she now has to come to grips with her mistaken impressions of both Wickham and Darcy.
Most of the tale is about Darcy's efforts to not get blamed for Wickham's death, which is an uphill battle because he made such a poor impression on the people of Meryton, and because Wickham did such a thorough job of spreading his false tale of woe. Darcy has the help of Mr Bennett and Elizabeth, and also Colonel Fitzwilliam. The romance between Elizabeth and Darcy moves along at a quick pace since Darcy's sterling qualities are brought sharply into focus for Elizabeth when he saves her from Wickham.
I deducted a star only because this is a more "vanilla" story than usual from this author. Other than the incident at the very beginning, which is pretty gruesome, there is almost no angst or drama. The usual villains are merely annoyances, and are dealt with handily. I liked that the assault on Elizabeth causes a positive change in Mr Bennett, and inspired Jane to take off her rose colored glasses. Georgiana and Anne DeBourgh are given some importance.
The book is well written and well edited. As always with this author, there are numerous religious references, but they're not overpowering. I recommend it highly.
This author never disappoints, and has become an automatic purchase for me. The story begins the day after the Netherfield ball. Elizabeth takes her usual morning walk, encounters Wickham, and greets him cheerfully, not knowing that he's drunk and in a bad mood. He assaults Elizabeth, and she screams as he's trying to force himself on her. Darcy is out for a ride on his horse, hears the scream, and finds Elizabeth struggling against Wickham. An altercation ensues involving all three of them during which Wickham pulls a knife, stabs Darcy in the arm, and stabs his horse, resulting in the animal trampling Wickham and killing him. Darcy's main concern becomes saving Elizabeth's reputation, so he insists that she leave the scene and let him deal with the aftermath without involving her name in any way. After some resistance, Elizabeth agrees, but she now has to come to grips with her mistaken impressions of both Wickham and Darcy.
Most of the tale is about Darcy's efforts to not get blamed for Wickham's death, which is an uphill battle because he made such a poor impression on the people of Meryton, and because Wickham did such a thorough job of spreading his false tale of woe. Darcy has the help of Mr Bennett and Elizabeth, and also Colonel Fitzwilliam. The romance between Elizabeth and Darcy moves along at a quick pace since Darcy's sterling qualities are brought sharply into focus for Elizabeth when he saves her from Wickham.
I deducted a star only because this is a more "vanilla" story than usual from this author. Other than the incident at the very beginning, which is pretty gruesome, there is almost no angst or drama. The usual villains are merely annoyances, and are dealt with handily. I liked that the assault on Elizabeth causes a positive change in Mr Bennett, and inspired Jane to take off her rose colored glasses. Georgiana and Anne DeBourgh are given some importance.
The book is well written and well edited. As always with this author, there are numerous religious references, but they're not overpowering. I recommend it highly.
July 10, 2025
As always, a well-written book by Ms Kendig. Lots of religious overtones, but not preachy.
Love grows out of some unfortunate circumstances. It starts with an attempted assault on Elizabeth by Wickham that is thwarted by Darcy. Elizabeth also manages to keep Darcy from being killed when he comes to her rescue. Wickham is not as fortunate. Of course she immediately recognizes that her perception of Wickham as the best of men was not valid. She begins to notice and appreciate Darcy’s many good qualities going forward, but is aware that his status is significantly higher than her own.
Wickham had done well at blackening Darcy’s name, especially with the militia, and Colonel Forster insists on an inquest into Wickham’s demise as he suspects that Darcy killed him due to bad blood. Darcy swears to protect Elizabeth’s reputation as she swears she will not stand by silently if he is accused of murder. Both have much to lose if the full truth is revealed.
Will the inquest indict or clear Darcy? Will Elizabeth be tainted by scandal? Will the citizens of Meryton believe the “proud” man capable of murder? How will Lydia and Kitty react to Wickham’s death? Can Darcy act on his growing feelings for Elizabeth and, if so, can she accept him? I believe the most significant character growth arc in this story is that of Mr Bennet, and secondarily, Lydia. Lots to discover in this interesting story.
Love grows out of some unfortunate circumstances. It starts with an attempted assault on Elizabeth by Wickham that is thwarted by Darcy. Elizabeth also manages to keep Darcy from being killed when he comes to her rescue. Wickham is not as fortunate. Of course she immediately recognizes that her perception of Wickham as the best of men was not valid. She begins to notice and appreciate Darcy’s many good qualities going forward, but is aware that his status is significantly higher than her own.
Wickham had done well at blackening Darcy’s name, especially with the militia, and Colonel Forster insists on an inquest into Wickham’s demise as he suspects that Darcy killed him due to bad blood. Darcy swears to protect Elizabeth’s reputation as she swears she will not stand by silently if he is accused of murder. Both have much to lose if the full truth is revealed.
Will the inquest indict or clear Darcy? Will Elizabeth be tainted by scandal? Will the citizens of Meryton believe the “proud” man capable of murder? How will Lydia and Kitty react to Wickham’s death? Can Darcy act on his growing feelings for Elizabeth and, if so, can she accept him? I believe the most significant character growth arc in this story is that of Mr Bennet, and secondarily, Lydia. Lots to discover in this interesting story.
January 11, 2023
Good story
I liked how the events in the early part of the book influenced the various characters later on. However, I was surprised that the murder trial of Darcy was over about halfway through the book. I'd assumed based on the description it would be the primary focus with lots of drama, but it was rather sedated for what it could have been (which I liked) and very minimally impacted the lives of those involved. Like I stated earlier, it was the actual events that influenced changes in characters and not the actual trial.
I enjoyed the additions of Georgiana, Anne, and Colonel Fitzwilliam to the post ball storyline. Due to the events, Darcy had to stay at Netherfield and this ended up bringing almost the entire cast into Hertfordshire.
Character development was well done, but I've come to expect that from Ms. Kendig. The changes in Mr. Bennett and Mary I particularly liked.
I can't really think of any suggestions. I expected high angst and drama but it was a calmer, softer storyline in my opinion that I have come to expect from this author. There are dramatic points but they aren't over the top or overdone.
I liked how the events in the early part of the book influenced the various characters later on. However, I was surprised that the murder trial of Darcy was over about halfway through the book. I'd assumed based on the description it would be the primary focus with lots of drama, but it was rather sedated for what it could have been (which I liked) and very minimally impacted the lives of those involved. Like I stated earlier, it was the actual events that influenced changes in characters and not the actual trial.
I enjoyed the additions of Georgiana, Anne, and Colonel Fitzwilliam to the post ball storyline. Due to the events, Darcy had to stay at Netherfield and this ended up bringing almost the entire cast into Hertfordshire.
Character development was well done, but I've come to expect that from Ms. Kendig. The changes in Mr. Bennett and Mary I particularly liked.
I can't really think of any suggestions. I expected high angst and drama but it was a calmer, softer storyline in my opinion that I have come to expect from this author. There are dramatic points but they aren't over the top or overdone.
January 26, 2024
I loved it!
With any variation it is always interesting to see how just a little twist in the story can produce such different results and this author never disappoints. The story begins the day after the Netherfield ball. It was interesting to watch relationship of not just Darcy and Elizabeth but many of the other sisters progress. The romance between Elizabeth and Darcy moves along at a quick pace since Darcy's sterling qualities are brought sharply into focus for Elizabeth when he saves her from Wickham. Other than the incident at the very beginning, which is pretty gruesome, there is almost no angst or drama. The usual villains are merely annoyances, and are dealt with handily. I liked that the incident involving Elizabeth caused a positive change in Mr Bennett, and inspired Jane to take off her rose colored glasses. Georgiana and Anne DeBourgh are given some importance. The book is well written and well edited. As always with this author, there are numerous religious references, but they're not overpowering. The snapshot epilogue several years into the future was also very satisfying. Indeed, there is a season for everything. I recommend it highly.
With any variation it is always interesting to see how just a little twist in the story can produce such different results and this author never disappoints. The story begins the day after the Netherfield ball. It was interesting to watch relationship of not just Darcy and Elizabeth but many of the other sisters progress. The romance between Elizabeth and Darcy moves along at a quick pace since Darcy's sterling qualities are brought sharply into focus for Elizabeth when he saves her from Wickham. Other than the incident at the very beginning, which is pretty gruesome, there is almost no angst or drama. The usual villains are merely annoyances, and are dealt with handily. I liked that the incident involving Elizabeth caused a positive change in Mr Bennett, and inspired Jane to take off her rose colored glasses. Georgiana and Anne DeBourgh are given some importance. The book is well written and well edited. As always with this author, there are numerous religious references, but they're not overpowering. The snapshot epilogue several years into the future was also very satisfying. Indeed, there is a season for everything. I recommend it highly.
April 13, 2022
So much more Mr. Darcy
Basically this variation was well written. After a tragic incident, the intrigue that followed was well defined. The story line increased and Mr. Bennett grows up so to speak. I admit he did well with his brat of a daughter, and I admit I hoped the impossible, that Mrs. Bennett would slap Lydia across her spoiled face.
But then, Mrs. Bennett would also have to matured.
Basically this variation was well written. After a tragic incident, the intrigue that followed was well defined. The story line increased and Mr. Bennett grows up so to speak. I admit he did well with his brat of a daughter, and I admit I hoped the impossible, that Mrs. Bennett would slap Lydia across her spoiled face.
But then, Mrs. Bennett would also have to matured.
March 19, 2022
Loved it!
With any variation it is always interesting to see how just a little twist in the story can produce such different results. It was interesting to watch relationship of not just Darcy and Elizabeth but many of the other sisters progress. The snapshot epilogue several years into the future was also very satisfying. Indeed, there is a season for everything.
With any variation it is always interesting to see how just a little twist in the story can produce such different results. It was interesting to watch relationship of not just Darcy and Elizabeth but many of the other sisters progress. The snapshot epilogue several years into the future was also very satisfying. Indeed, there is a season for everything.
March 26, 2022
Satisfying and dramatic
Corrects all the plot points in cannon which bother us so much: Bingley does not stay away, Wickham gets his comeuppance, as does Lydia, Darcy does not blow his first proposal, and Collins proposes to the correct Benet sister. There's a bit of drama in the middle that works out as all wish.
Corrects all the plot points in cannon which bother us so much: Bingley does not stay away, Wickham gets his comeuppance, as does Lydia, Darcy does not blow his first proposal, and Collins proposes to the correct Benet sister. There's a bit of drama in the middle that works out as all wish.
April 13, 2022
Well written enjoyable read.
I have read other books by this author and she doesn't disappoint. My only historical point being Elizabeth would not have been in possession of a wristwatch. Although some claim it was developed as early as 1810 in France, it is widely accepted at a much later date.
I have read other books by this author and she doesn't disappoint. My only historical point being Elizabeth would not have been in possession of a wristwatch. Although some claim it was developed as early as 1810 in France, it is widely accepted at a much later date.
November 3, 2022
Enjoyable read
This was a nice read on a chilly day. No angst, just a happy romp with our dear couple. Nasty bit with Wickham, but most of the other characters have mellowed.
A little more friction would have increased reader suspense, but they are variations for a reason.
Creditable effort and worth the time.
This was a nice read on a chilly day. No angst, just a happy romp with our dear couple. Nasty bit with Wickham, but most of the other characters have mellowed.
A little more friction would have increased reader suspense, but they are variations for a reason.
Creditable effort and worth the time.
March 16, 2023
Strong story line
Believable storylines. Not outlandish and Elizabeth was not a dumb headstrong but determined one.
They got Wickham out it the way quickly.
Jane was more than sweet and kind. Mary’s development was a surprise. Loved Mr. Bennet’s wake up and response to the family.
I could put it down and walk away from it. Highly recommend this book!
Believable storylines. Not outlandish and Elizabeth was not a dumb headstrong but determined one.
They got Wickham out it the way quickly.
Jane was more than sweet and kind. Mary’s development was a surprise. Loved Mr. Bennet’s wake up and response to the family.
I could put it down and walk away from it. Highly recommend this book!
March 21, 2022
Great read
Very pleasant read. Enjoyed the drama at the start although could possibly have done with a little more conflict between Lizzy and Darcy but enjoyed it very much none the less
Very pleasant read. Enjoyed the drama at the start although could possibly have done with a little more conflict between Lizzy and Darcy but enjoyed it very much none the less
March 29, 2022
I loved it! A Elizabeth and Darcy story not focused on it's entirely in ODC. Low angst but gripping. I throughly enjoy Ms Kendig's stories and have not been disappointed so far.
Highly recommended for all.
Highly recommended for all.
April 4, 2022
While I liked how Bingley ended with Jane, and Mr. Collins chose Mary as his partner instead of Lizzy, Elizabeth and Darcy's relationship progressing felt more like budding close friends than romantic partners, which put me off.
June 19, 2022
Couldn't put it down
If you are a fan of JAFF I highly recommend this book. The characters are well developed, we get to see other sides to everyone, while they all maintain their original spirit. There is the suspense, the love, and the epilogue wraps it all up very nicely.
If you are a fan of JAFF I highly recommend this book. The characters are well developed, we get to see other sides to everyone, while they all maintain their original spirit. There is the suspense, the love, and the epilogue wraps it all up very nicely.
July 11, 2022
enjoyable.
This was a good book. Mr. Darcy was more then gallant, was
Wickham wicked. YES and our Lizzy was brave. The book was well written. Liked the two chapter at the end, it gives the reader a. filling of the lives after the wedding were so many books end.
This was a good book. Mr. Darcy was more then gallant, was
Wickham wicked. YES and our Lizzy was brave. The book was well written. Liked the two chapter at the end, it gives the reader a. filling of the lives after the wedding were so many books end.
July 29, 2022
Decent Read
I like that Darcy and Elizabeth have heavier concerns to deal with so there isn't the typical emotional back and forth between the two. Collins and Lady Catherine had small parts, and Caroline even less- I'm okay with that.
I like that Darcy and Elizabeth have heavier concerns to deal with so there isn't the typical emotional back and forth between the two. Collins and Lady Catherine had small parts, and Caroline even less- I'm okay with that.
Read
November 7, 2022Darcy saves Lizzy from Wickham after the Netherfield ball where the story diverges from canon. Darcy goes along with the compromise and has to deal with a inquest over Wickham's death. Surprisingly low angst.
May 30, 2024
Such happiness in continuing generations
This variation had great happiness to sorrowful losses. Generations brought from such love in so many finding their ONE! We only need to believe and honor in our Lord God to achieve what He has planned for us in our beginning.
This variation had great happiness to sorrowful losses. Generations brought from such love in so many finding their ONE! We only need to believe and honor in our Lord God to achieve what He has planned for us in our beginning.
December 19, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
This was an OK read with an OK to meh romance. I was a little disappointed with how the inquest was handled after it was hyped up. The constant monologues that Darcy had about the unsuitability of Lizzy and how he shouldn't raise expectations was tedious.
This was an OK read with an OK to meh romance. I was a little disappointed with how the inquest was handled after it was hyped up. The constant monologues that Darcy had about the unsuitability of Lizzy and how he shouldn't raise expectations was tedious.
March 20, 2022
Such a good story!
The plot has most of the angst in the first half, but all although the second half is calmer, it was still a delight.
The plot has most of the angst in the first half, but all although the second half is calmer, it was still a delight.
April 18, 2022
A very good read!
I enjoyed this book so much. The story was entertaining, and kept my interest through the whole story. I also liked the wrap up at the end. I recommend this book.
I enjoyed this book so much. The story was entertaining, and kept my interest through the whole story. I also liked the wrap up at the end. I recommend this book.
January 3, 2023
2,5/5
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews