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An Agreeable Compromise

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Miss Caroline Bingley has long been a thorn in the side of Fitzwilliam Darcy’s friendship with Charles Bingley; the visit to Netherfield Park to help Bingley learn the craft of an estate manager has all the potential for disaster. But Darcy will not shirk, for his friendship with Bingley outweighs his distaste for the man’s sister. In his defense, Darcy enlists his manservant, a man equally committed to ensure Miss Bingley will not become his master’s wife.

What Darcy had not expected was to find a woman in Hertfordshire, a woman he had only dreamed of meeting. Miss Elizabeth Bennet was everything a woman should be—handsome, intelligent, witty, considerate, and possessing the most beautiful eyes Darcy had ever beheld. It was not long before Darcy found himself ensnared in her web, helplessly besotted, knowing she was exactly what he wanted in a wife.

Yet the specter of Miss Bingley’s resolve to go to whatever lengths to have her way hung over his overtures to the woman he was rapidly coming to love. In time, Darcy was certain Miss Bingley would make her move, her actions certain to destroy his happiness if she succeeded. Darcy, however, was not without resources, and not without his own determination to do everything he could to thwart her machinations and find his happiness.

197 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 20, 2022

131 people are currently reading
93 people want to read

About the author

Jann Rowland

87 books192 followers
Jann Rowland is a Canadian, born and bred. Other than a two-year span in which he lived in Japan, he has been a resident of the Great White North his entire life, though he professes to still hate the winters.

Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.

When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.

Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.

Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
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5 stars
267 (36%)
4 stars
279 (37%)
3 stars
168 (22%)
2 stars
22 (2%)
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3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
Profile Image for Sam H..
1,225 reviews59 followers
July 21, 2022
I found this to be a very quick, fun read. While there was tension from a couple of characters, specifically Caroline, the romance part of the story was easy and lighthearted.

Bingley and entourage arrive in to Meryton, meeting slightly altered Bennet situation. Mrs. Bennet died in childbirth with the youngest and the baby dying as well. So Mr. Bennet was more present in his 4 daughters lives.

2 couples quickly become enamored, much to the ire and disgust of - you guessed it-Caroline! Slightly unhinged, it never goes as far as kidnapping and lives being threatened. What DOES happens was a really new take (at least for me).

A fresh conclusion to a P&P story, with a touch of mystery to the very end.
Profile Image for Sophia.
Author 5 books399 followers
August 7, 2022
Light, low-angst Pride and Prejudice variation tale in which Caroline Bingley is the central figure though only a heroine in her own, obsessed mind.

I do believe this is my first chance to read this author's work and I was curious when I picked up An Agreeable Compromise. So much is different with Mr. Bennet a long-time widower rearing his four oldest surviving daughters and more involved in ways, a Darcy who is attracted to this Bennet and thus is open to a friendship with him and his vivacious second daughter, and the absence from some of the minor character cast.

But, the biggest variation is Caroline Bingley. She's the original character on steroids and so over the top that one is not expected to believe her plausible unless one believes she is deranged and everyone else is willing to put up with it. I have an odd sense of humor at times so I went with it and enjoyed how a loose, crazy like this could liven an otherwise low key plot in which there is no other conflict and very little need for character growth to speak of.

The title leads the reader to understand that the set up and ongoing plot of Darcy and Bingley falling for Bennet daughters and vice versa drives this version of Caroline to extreme measures. But does she actually achieve her compromise? There in lies the big money moment of the book and I'm not telling.

So, this is a P&P variation that is for moods of humor and indulging in an outlandish character. I recommend it for a refreshing change-up.
Profile Image for Sheila Majczan.
2,692 reviews203 followers
July 26, 2022
As other reviews tell us, this story hits us with a new surprise; one I have not read in any other variations.

The premise centers around Caroline Bingley's attempts to get a proposal from Darcy. As usual, she clings to his arm and hints at a dance while at balls, etc. Darcy and his valet make sure they take all the precautions to make sure she cannot access his bedroom at night...especially after learning that she has demanded the keys to all the rooms from the Netherfield housekeeper.

Lady Catherine and Wickham are not threats here. Mr. Bennet is a widower with only 4 daughters; his wife dying during the birth of their fifth daughter, who died also. Collins has shown up and been denied any Bennet daughter as per canon. A compromise does occur but not at all what you might imagine. There is an epilogue.

I recommend this story as I found the climax so interesting...and with the results affecting more than just the couple involved.
Profile Image for James S.
1,434 reviews
July 27, 2022
A long trip down a short road

A story which Caroline Bingley and her nearly insane actions are front and center. There is only one surprise and after the first couple of chapters the course of the story marches forward.

Much like James Bond or Mission Impossible movies. What was once new, no longer is.
Profile Image for Ree.
1,336 reviews80 followers
December 8, 2025
A Unique Conclusion
I do not believe I have ever read this particular outcome before in a P&P variation. As the description supplies, Caroline is determined to have Darcy. Her machinations will provide unexpected consequences in this light-hearted read. Even with some focus on Caroline, the romance between ODC isn’t left out and is evident from the beginning. Happy to recommend it.

April 8, 2025 - Audiobook
Harry Frost, one of the very best voice actors in this genre is brilliant, as always. His Caroline Bingley performance is spot on, and even when she’s being crazy, I have to grin at the hearing of her.
Profile Image for Melissa  .
410 reviews
August 3, 2022
I’m only giving this 4 stars because it is well written but basically I hated it. I’m not a huge fan of the overly grasping Caroline / compromised to forced marriage trope. The idea that a bitch could compromise someone who is KNOWN to the community? Nope. I started skimming when I got to the compromise.
Profile Image for Michelle David.
2,555 reviews14 followers
July 31, 2022
Agreeable indeed 😉

Another absolutely lovely and definitely agreeable variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Jann Rowland. I enjoyed it as always.
Profile Image for Les.
2,911 reviews1 follower
August 23, 2022
CAROLINE GETS HER COMEUPPANCE

This is an unusual P&P variation there are numerous changes to Canon and the author doesn’t put them all upfront but invites you to discover them slowly.

It begins with Darcy being less stand offish and dancing with many ladies at the Assembly While Caroline is a giant ball of crazy

It is not just the Netherfield party putting old Caro in her place almost everyone does though it falls on deaf ears

While Darcy and Lizzy are falling in love Caro is scheming and plotting her downfall is laugh out loud funny

But then the book takes a turn for the mediocre and ends with a scene set 10 years in the future which I found pointless
Profile Image for Barry S. Richman.
Author 8 books42 followers
August 12, 2022
Wow ... didn't see THAT one coming. What a great compromise and ending! Very original. Caroline's singular focus was a bit tedious but the ending was worth it. Well done.
Profile Image for Bettye McKee.
2,188 reviews156 followers
July 25, 2022
A well-written and well-executed plot

This excellent story is a departure from canon in many respects. And the departure begins at the assembly.

Much of the story involves Miss Bingley's attempts to secure Mr. Darcy. It is entertaining to see her fail time after time until the brazenness of her final attempt brings consequences she neither expected nor wanted.

14
Profile Image for Barbara K..
757 reviews21 followers
November 8, 2022
A Pride and Prejudice variation with a twist! This book had a surprising, interesting outcome. It begins with a smaller Bennet family, in that Mrs. Bennet passed away years ago, giving birth to a fifth daughter, who also didn't survive. As a widower Mr. Bennet has led a calm, quiet life to some degree, and has been able to set aside comfortable dowries for his four daughters. In this variation, Darcy, who is fed up with Miss Bingley's pursuit of him, does not seem to hesitate to give in to his attraction to Elizabeth Bennet in her stead, nor does he discourage his friend Bingley from his interest in her sister.

Lady Catherine doesn't enter much into this variation, and Wickham doesn't show up at all. But there are still two annoying characters in the persons of Mr. Collins and Miss Bingley, who seem to be quite enough. Mr. Bennet ceases to see Mr. Collins as entertaining once he realizes the man has designs on his two elder daughters and doesn't seem to mind which he takes as a bride, just to assume that he has a right to one of them. Miss Bingley seems to be more and more desperate.

But fear not, because the outcome of this story will surprise and entertain most readers, I feel sure. There's a long lead-up to the twist, and we're left with a bit of a mystery as to how things came about that isn't explained until the very end, but it's a short novel, so there's not too long a wait, and it's worth reading to get to that point.
Profile Image for Adele.
214 reviews1 follower
July 26, 2022
awesome twist

I would never have expected the outcome of this book. lady C and Wickham are MIA in the book. Caroline makes up for both by being her scheming self. Her attempts to snare Darcy blow up spectacularly and the ending is poetic.
1,195 reviews29 followers
August 9, 2022
Entertaining

A very vanilla story, with a ridiculous Caroline Bingley. In this version, there's no Mrs Bennett and no Lydia, both of them having died in the birthing process. No Wickham, and Anne DeBourgh is dead, so no Lady Catherine making trouble either. Mr Bennett is a widower with four daughters, and while he's not father of the year, he cares about his girls and is a whole lot more involved in their lives, and they're much better behaved as a result.

As per usual, Bingley comes to Netherfield Park with Caroline, the Hursts, and Darcy. Caroline is over-the-top bad, and openly and relentlessly pursues Darcy, even though he tells her straight out that he wants nothing to do with her. She's rather manic in her determination, which sends Darcy into Elizabeth's company just to get away from the madwoman. The attraction of Darcy and Elizabeth is pretty quick, and pretty painless.

As the title suggests, there is a compromise in the storyline, but it's a surprise, and a shocking one at that. It does make the story notable. However, it's the only spark in an otherwise very easy going story. The romance is lovely between Elizabeth and Darcy, but unlike the original P&P, the path of love is smooth. Darcy is nicer, and Bingley has a backbone. This is a pleasant story with very little angst. You can always count on quality writing with Mr Rowland. I recommend this book.
Profile Image for Bethanne.
618 reviews11 followers
July 31, 2022
Very different compromise, indeed!

Finally an entirely different compromise in the saga of Bennet-Bingley-Darcy family. Mrs Bennet had died during childbirth and the 4 girls were raised by their father who wasn't as neglectful as typical. The girls are educated, and possess the good manners of the time - no giggled and running after red coated men without an estate! Bingley has a spine!! He and Louisa stand up to Caroline who continues to lust after Pemberley! ( so do I)
A compromise is enacted but it snares a different man as a result of Mr Darcy's conniving valet! I must admit that this compromise surprised me.. I have read numerous men being caught in Caroline Bingley's trap but never this ! Kudos to the author for stepping out of the box in this one. I really can't reveal who was caught even though I want to...its too funny!!
Enjoyed reading this and I recommend it without hesitation!
Profile Image for Reya Reychelle.
1,163 reviews9 followers
August 9, 2022
Ummm…Wow. This is the second book I’ve read by this author & similar to the first, I just don’t know if it can be classified a variation. More a complete reimagining that absolutely stays true to the characters if not the plot or themes.
Side note, if the author should ever by chance read this review, he should know in the last 3/4 years, I’ve read probably over a thousand books. Of those I can count on one hand the number of which have been written by men. The point being that I LOVE romance books. I read for the romance & just like the last book, it just didn’t deliver. It was better than the last, but still Darcy & Elizabeth were not the focus & there was one relationship that while wildly entertaining & hilarious was unrealistic & decidedly very unromantic.
545 reviews21 followers
April 15, 2024
A very enjoyable low angst story with an unexpected twist near the end.
658 reviews
July 25, 2022
3.5 stars - A Fun Read

I liked this Darcy because he wasn't afraid to woo Elizabeth. Caroline was very persistent and rude, but not an over-the-top psycho. After reading this, I'm ready to kill off Fanny each time and introduce this new Mrs. Bennet, I got a kick out that...the possibilities.
Profile Image for Elizabeth S.
766 reviews16 followers
August 19, 2022
As in canon, Darcy is in Netherfield to help Bingley learn estate management. In this one, however, Caroline Bingley is even more determined and unpleasant. Darcy does not insult Elizabeth at the Meryton assembly. Thus, her initial concern is only with an ambiguous remark she overheard him make to Caroline Bingley. He clarified it later at a dinner hosted by the Bennets. The angst building up is because of Caroline's incessant negativity, jealousy, and determination to win Darcy's favor at all costs.

Mrs. Bennet died fifteen years previously during the birth of her fifth child, who also failed to survive. Consequently, there is no Lydia in this story. Nor is there an Anne deBourgh, as she died two years previously. Georgiana did have her experience with Wickham in Ramsgate, but this is only briefly mentioned. She is mentioned again towards the end of the book when Darcy brings her to Netherfield. Wickham does not appear again, nor is Colonel Fitzwilliam a part of the story.

Most of the book is devoted to Caroline's repetition of the same theme, over and over and over, that the Bennets are a coarse family, that association with them is degrading to the Bingleys, that she alone is the perfect wife for Darcy. It quickly gets tiresome. Her attempt to entrap Darcy and force him to marry her
280 reviews
August 17, 2022
Carolyn Bingley is out to get him at any cost but what she gets is not what she bargained for.

What do you get when you add a determined shrew bent on compromise and a more determined man who will not allow it? Mr.Darcy is willing to assist his friend Charles Bingley learn to manage an estate but he will not allow himself to be "managed and manipulated" by his friend's sister. When Mr.Darcy's attention is drawn to Miss Elizabeth Bennet he soon looses his heart but he must keep his head if they are ever to have a future together. You'll enjoy the interactions of Mr. Bennet, Mr. Bingley and Mr.Darcy as they deal with unpleasant problems with mirth and determination. You're going to love this book. I did!
Profile Image for Peg.
62 reviews5 followers
August 1, 2022
This one, as other reviewers have noted, ended up in an unexpected spot, and I never saw it coming. Kudos to the author for coming up with an imaginative alternative.

Mrs. Bennet died in childbirth with her fifth child (the baby perished, too) and it's interesting to see the resultant changes in the family. This means that Darcy's qualms about courting Elizabeth drop to practically nothing, making the romance develop more quickly. The fact that Anne DeBourgh died before the book opens and that Wickham never joined the militia means that Caroline Bingley has the stage to herself as ODC's one and only antagonist...and boy, does she chew up the scenery.

Great fun, with a satisfying ending.
466 reviews4 followers
September 25, 2022
Focused on a character which is the least of my concerns

This variation is, unfortunately, not focused on the love affair between Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy. That in itself is a turn-off. As much as this is a well-written story, it leaves so much to be desired.

There are, however, many novel parts in this variation which makes it interesting enough for any reader, fan of Jane Austen’s classic story of Pride and Prejudice. It just takes away from the main romantic story, which diminishes its appeal, in this reader’s opinion.
Profile Image for Wendy DeWachter.
243 reviews1 follower
August 7, 2022
Love to hate Caroline? Read this

This book centers on Caroline Bingley. The usual P&P courtships are here but Caroline, in all her nastiness is center stage, as are the set downs. If you love reading Caroline and seeing her put in her place this is the book for you. Also, the most imaginative ending. As far as I know there is not another P&P variation with this storyline. Page state page, chapter after chapter, loving to hate Caroline
Profile Image for Jessica.
326 reviews
August 23, 2022
A very quick read with very light angst between our main couples. Bingley has a backbone, or rather, more than usual but still not as tough on Carolines grasping as he should be. Darcy is much more forthright with his emotions than in canon. Blessedly no Wickham in sight which was refreshing. I only took stars off because I didn't like who was the compromised party. They deserved better than her, but still a unique take.
3,459 reviews42 followers
October 27, 2022
I wasn't sorry i read this but it's not one of the author's best. I thought it was a little exhausting because all the conversations are so indiscreet, rude or both. When people aren't saying shockingly bold things in front of somebody's face they're denigrating someone else behind their backs.

I wasn't sure what happened in the last compromise bit... his valet directed Darcy to wait in the wrong room? Why didn't he just tell him to stay in the ballroom to begin with?
Profile Image for Patricia Edmisson.
148 reviews3 followers
December 26, 2022
Can Compromises be Agreeable?

When a servant has his mind set, compromises can be agreeable to him and the other servants. But to those in the compromise, it may not be all that agreeable. In this story, we meet more agreeable characters than canon. Three original characters are lacking in this version and are not missed at all.

It was an enjoyable novel; I encourage others to read it too.
389 reviews
January 1, 2023
interesting twist on pride and prejudice

Caroline Bingley is, as ever, the villainess in this story. She sets up a scheme to trap and compromise Darcy. Instead, she compromises herself with quite a different man. To tell the man is to perhaps ruin a bit of the story. It does end well for all. Elizabeth marries Darcy and Jane marries Bingley. Jann Rowland is my favorite writer of pride and prejudice variations.
Profile Image for Mustang.
314 reviews
April 3, 2025
Compromise is the name of the game

I LOVE that Harry Frost is now narrating Jann Rowland's books!

With Compromise as a focus of this story the question is who and where along with who can help stop it? Got to love Darcy's valet! Mrs Bennet dies in childbirth with Lydia so that changes much in the Bennet household for the better. No Wickham or Lady Catherine on page so no issue there. This was a fun story to see how things turn out in the end. Worth the read/listen,
522 reviews2 followers
August 1, 2022
Wonderful twisty plot

Most of our favorite characters do slightly different things, with plenty of new possibilities resulting. Mrs. Bennet dies in childbirth, along with the baby, so we are left with only four sisters when Netherfield at last is let! Twists and turns go on from there to a very interesting conclusion. A fun read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews

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