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The Netherfield Fire
Mr. Darcy saved Elizabeth from the fire, but will her infected burns still kill her? When Elizabeth smelled the smoke and heard the cry of ‘Fire!’ during the Netherfield ball she did not hesitate to run up to the higher floors. A servant who had grown up at Longbourn had broken her leg, and would need help to escape the flames. But as they hurried downstairs they became lost in the thick, roiling smoke. Elizabeth was struck and burned on the face by falling debris. Just when she began to despair, she heard Mr. Darcy’s hoarse voice cry her name. Mr. Darcy still disdains Elizabeth’s mother and connections, and the next time they meet will be at Rosings Park under Lady Catherine’s watchful gaze… building was entirely aflame. She could see the portrait of the baronet’s father, Sir Clement, his sneering face curling to a black crisp across the hallway.Fast, fast, or they would both die here.She stood up, and then made an effort to drag Rose across the floor towards where she thought the stairs were, as she could not see them. Her feet burned through the leather slippers from the heat in the wood. And then, a painting fell off from the wall, falling onto her face, and Elizabeth screamed in pain, as the glowing red metal of the frame sat against her face for a second before bouncing on her arm and falling away.She fell to the ground.Elizabeth tried to force herself to stand, but she could not. She smelled hair burning.Everything was dim, and then a hoarse, yet still commanding voice cut through the dimness. “Elizabeth! Elizabeth! Miss Elizabeth, are you here!”Mr. Darcy’s voice!For some reason that she could not understand, Elizabeth felt entirely relieved, and much of her panic left as she shouted out again and again, choking on the thick roiling smoke.“Here! Here!” both she and Rose called out.There was a long moment, a moment in which she feared that she had hallucinated Darcy’s voice, or that he could not hear her over the fire.She coughed hackingly, and she and Rose crawled forward further on the hot floor that now burned their fingers.Mr. Darcy appeared through the smoke from behind them. His face was wrapped in his cravat to protect him from the smoke. He pulled Elizabeth to her feet, and then without any seeming effort he picked Rose up with just one arm, and at a run he pulled Elizabeth along behind him, running in the opposite direction from that which their confused crawling had taken them.They reached the grand staircase in the entry hall, and Darcy ran down it carrying Rose, somehow not falling, Elizabeth stumbled behind him, though one of her feet seemed sprained and she half hopped on it, not feeling anything.A step cracked under the weight of Mr. Darcy and his burden, the wood underneath eaten through by flames, and as he passed an orange flame burst up in front of Elizabeth, lashing at her eyebrows.Darcy reached the bottom, and he shouted out, and handed his burden to someone else standing near the entrance. He ran back up the stairs, and picked Elizabeth up from where she was stumbling and coughingly trying to make her way down.His arms were strong, and she felt completely safe, even though they were still in the burning structure. And then wreathed by flames and smoke, both coughing, he rushed through the wide open doors carrying her, and behind them, it seemed merely a second later, there was a resounding crash as one of the wooden support beams for the roof collapsed with an enormous clatter and a new burst of flames.
256 pages, Paperback
Published September 19, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 27, 2024
A spark neglected makes a mighty fire. ~ Robert Herrick
In “The Netherfield Fire” the chimneys were the neglected item. A bit of background information is included for those unfamiliar with wood-burning fireplaces.
Quote from the book: “One point of such failure to keep the estate in good order implies there shall be others — the chimneys are the most concerning. The bulk of this house is in wood. The whole pile could light on fire easily enough this winter if your landlord did not follow the laws to keep the chimneys properly clear.”
During the ball, a guest adds fuel to the fire in the library and — poof!
Fitzwilliam Darcy goes into action to direct the evacuation. Later, he realizes that Elizabeth Bennet had gone to the servants’ quarters to help an injured maid escape.
Darcy re-enters the burning structure and finds Elizabeth and Rose, the maid, moving in the wrong direction in their confusion. Elizabeth had been struck in the face with burning ashes.
If you ever catch on fire, try to avoid seeing yourself in the mirror, because I bet that's what really throws you into a panic. ~ Jack Handey
Mrs. Bennet offers her usual support. She is not necessarily the best mirror for Elizabeth at the time.
Quote from the book: Mama shrieked, “My poor girl. My poor mutilated girl. No one will ever want you now, Elizabeth. No one will ever marry you! Never, never, never. Oh, oh, if only you had not run up to rescue that poor girl. Oh, oh, Lord! Lord, have mercy upon us all! And we shall all starve in the hedgerows when your father dies. Oh, oh, oh!”
So, here is the plot: Elizabeth must heal from her physical injuries and also recover her self-image — not an easy task.
Several stories exist featuring a fire at either Netherfield or Longbourn but this is the first I recall with serious injuries to Elizabeth. High rating for uniqueness!
It is with our passions as it is with fire and water; they are good servants, but bad masters. ~ Roger L'Estrange
In “The Netherfield Fire” the chimneys were the neglected item. A bit of background information is included for those unfamiliar with wood-burning fireplaces.
Quote from the book: “One point of such failure to keep the estate in good order implies there shall be others — the chimneys are the most concerning. The bulk of this house is in wood. The whole pile could light on fire easily enough this winter if your landlord did not follow the laws to keep the chimneys properly clear.”
During the ball, a guest adds fuel to the fire in the library and — poof!
Fitzwilliam Darcy goes into action to direct the evacuation. Later, he realizes that Elizabeth Bennet had gone to the servants’ quarters to help an injured maid escape.
Darcy re-enters the burning structure and finds Elizabeth and Rose, the maid, moving in the wrong direction in their confusion. Elizabeth had been struck in the face with burning ashes.
If you ever catch on fire, try to avoid seeing yourself in the mirror, because I bet that's what really throws you into a panic. ~ Jack Handey
Mrs. Bennet offers her usual support. She is not necessarily the best mirror for Elizabeth at the time.
Quote from the book: Mama shrieked, “My poor girl. My poor mutilated girl. No one will ever want you now, Elizabeth. No one will ever marry you! Never, never, never. Oh, oh, if only you had not run up to rescue that poor girl. Oh, oh, Lord! Lord, have mercy upon us all! And we shall all starve in the hedgerows when your father dies. Oh, oh, oh!”
So, here is the plot: Elizabeth must heal from her physical injuries and also recover her self-image — not an easy task.
Several stories exist featuring a fire at either Netherfield or Longbourn but this is the first I recall with serious injuries to Elizabeth. High rating for uniqueness!
It is with our passions as it is with fire and water; they are good servants, but bad masters. ~ Roger L'Estrange
October 31, 2020
5+ stars!
I read this over a month ago and wish I had written this review immediately so I could mention in more detail all the things I loved about this wonderfully thought-provoking Pride and Prejudice variation.
The premise is in the title: all revolves around the consequences of a horrific fire at Netherfield. Elizabeth is seriously injured, almost dying as a result of risking her life to save a servant, and Mr. Darcy saves them both. One side of Elizabeth's face is left scarred from burns as a result.
The superficial Mrs. Bennet frequently bemoans her daughter's disfigurement. Instead of applauding Eluzabeth for her heroic actions, she chastises her for being so foolish and is certain her daughter has destroyed any chance that she'll catch a husband. Mr. Bennet isn't much better. But Mr. Darcy sees Elizabeth's actions and appearance in a very different light than her parents. And Elizabeth has earned the eternal devotion of Rose, the servant whose life she saved.
The writing is excellent, showing characters reacting to circumstances much as we'd expect from Jane Austen's creations. What I especially appreciate is how this book examines the concept of "beauty," both in the way we see ourselves and in the way others see us. Admirably, the subject matter provides more depth than the usual P&P variation.
I really loved this and highly recommend it. Content is clean
I read this over a month ago and wish I had written this review immediately so I could mention in more detail all the things I loved about this wonderfully thought-provoking Pride and Prejudice variation.
The premise is in the title: all revolves around the consequences of a horrific fire at Netherfield. Elizabeth is seriously injured, almost dying as a result of risking her life to save a servant, and Mr. Darcy saves them both. One side of Elizabeth's face is left scarred from burns as a result.
The superficial Mrs. Bennet frequently bemoans her daughter's disfigurement. Instead of applauding Eluzabeth for her heroic actions, she chastises her for being so foolish and is certain her daughter has destroyed any chance that she'll catch a husband. Mr. Bennet isn't much better. But Mr. Darcy sees Elizabeth's actions and appearance in a very different light than her parents. And Elizabeth has earned the eternal devotion of Rose, the servant whose life she saved.
The writing is excellent, showing characters reacting to circumstances much as we'd expect from Jane Austen's creations. What I especially appreciate is how this book examines the concept of "beauty," both in the way we see ourselves and in the way others see us. Admirably, the subject matter provides more depth than the usual P&P variation.
I really loved this and highly recommend it. Content is clean
October 2, 2020
What if Elizabeth had suffered a facial wound...
I loved the plot, both Elizabeth and Darcy performed heroic acts of unselfish kindness.
Certain things catch your eye, but pursue only those who catch the heart. (Ancient Indian Proverb)
Elizabeth was injured in the fire and the book dealt with the social repercussions such an injury might have. I adored this rendition of Darcy who proved to be less superficial but exceedingly blunt. It is something refreshing about those who speak their mind, I believe...
I found the story a tad dry in its execution, hence the deduction of one star.
Recommend!
Rated: Chaste
2020 JAFF: 225
I loved the plot, both Elizabeth and Darcy performed heroic acts of unselfish kindness.
Certain things catch your eye, but pursue only those who catch the heart. (Ancient Indian Proverb)
Elizabeth was injured in the fire and the book dealt with the social repercussions such an injury might have. I adored this rendition of Darcy who proved to be less superficial but exceedingly blunt. It is something refreshing about those who speak their mind, I believe...
I found the story a tad dry in its execution, hence the deduction of one star.
Recommend!
Rated: Chaste
2020 JAFF: 225
January 14, 2021
“If you touch the fire or if the fire touches you, it is you who will be burned, Touch Me Not” ― P.S. Jagadeesh Kumar
Rating: clean: trigger warning: due to angst regarding injuries sustained in a fire. There are descriptions of wound care that might be a bit squeamish for some readers.
Elizabeth Bennet remembered the servant girl on the upper floors and ran back into the burning building to help her. When Darcy realized that Elizabeth Bennet was not outside, he ran back into Netherfield, and up the smoke-filled staircase calling out her name. The rest of the story was her healing from her injuries and dealing with the pity looks and remarks from her friends and family. Darcy was doing his famous debate with himself regarding whether he loved her or not and fighting wanting to marry into such an inferior family.
“Can he love her? Can the soul really be satisfied with such polite affections? To love is to burn - to be on fire, like Juliet or Guinevere or Eloise...” ― Emma Thompson, The Sense and Sensibility Screenplay and Diaries: Bringing Jane Austen's Novel to Film
I was not in the mood for this story. Apparently, I should have put it down and read it at another time. It did not sit well with me. I didn’t enjoy the language. I don’t understand slang or the cant of the Regency period and it went over my head half the time. Minor editing problems were irritating and I forced myself to just suck it up and finish this. The latter part of the story did pick up and was better. So much seem implausible and the language just didn’t fit. Why was everyone repeating words so often? They sounded more like Sir William Lucas when he repeated something two or three times. ‘Capital, Capital.’
Hurtful comments: Mr. Collins was a sanctimonious cretin. Mrs. Bennet and Caroline Bingley were horrid in their hurtful and demeaning comments regarding Elizabeth’s injuries. I did not enjoy this variation at all. Not even the budding love story between our dear couple could pull me out of my slump. I am sorry.
“We all live in a house on fire, no fire department to call; no way out, just the upstairs window to look out of while the fire burns the house down with us trapped, locked in it.” ― Tennessee Williams, The Milk Train Doesn't Stop Here Anymore
Rating: clean: trigger warning: due to angst regarding injuries sustained in a fire. There are descriptions of wound care that might be a bit squeamish for some readers.
Elizabeth Bennet remembered the servant girl on the upper floors and ran back into the burning building to help her. When Darcy realized that Elizabeth Bennet was not outside, he ran back into Netherfield, and up the smoke-filled staircase calling out her name. The rest of the story was her healing from her injuries and dealing with the pity looks and remarks from her friends and family. Darcy was doing his famous debate with himself regarding whether he loved her or not and fighting wanting to marry into such an inferior family.
“Can he love her? Can the soul really be satisfied with such polite affections? To love is to burn - to be on fire, like Juliet or Guinevere or Eloise...” ― Emma Thompson, The Sense and Sensibility Screenplay and Diaries: Bringing Jane Austen's Novel to Film
I was not in the mood for this story. Apparently, I should have put it down and read it at another time. It did not sit well with me. I didn’t enjoy the language. I don’t understand slang or the cant of the Regency period and it went over my head half the time. Minor editing problems were irritating and I forced myself to just suck it up and finish this. The latter part of the story did pick up and was better. So much seem implausible and the language just didn’t fit. Why was everyone repeating words so often? They sounded more like Sir William Lucas when he repeated something two or three times. ‘Capital, Capital.’
Hurtful comments: Mr. Collins was a sanctimonious cretin. Mrs. Bennet and Caroline Bingley were horrid in their hurtful and demeaning comments regarding Elizabeth’s injuries. I did not enjoy this variation at all. Not even the budding love story between our dear couple could pull me out of my slump. I am sorry.
“We all live in a house on fire, no fire department to call; no way out, just the upstairs window to look out of while the fire burns the house down with us trapped, locked in it.” ― Tennessee Williams, The Milk Train Doesn't Stop Here Anymore
May 18, 2021
What if Lizzy had a scar from a fire
Well written novella but too small in its scope though. The plot was a short story plot. No epilogue so we don’t have any hints how it much her future was about her scar. We don’t get anything about the scope of her scar impacting her being part of society. The scope of the story was mostly Longbourn and Rosings.
Well written novella but too small in its scope though. The plot was a short story plot. No epilogue so we don’t have any hints how it much her future was about her scar. We don’t get anything about the scope of her scar impacting her being part of society. The scope of the story was mostly Longbourn and Rosings.
July 1, 2021
I have now read 14 of this author's stories.
The author's blurb introducing us to the premise of this story sets it up well. Darcy's attention and aid towards a severely injured servant girl and Elizabeth's follow-up care bring both together at Netherfield where Elizabeth has come to care for Jane, who has fallen ill. Then during the Netherfield Ball fire breaks out and Elizabeth rushes to the third floor to help the stricken Rose escape. Her broken leg impedes their progress as they become disoriented due to smoke and flames. Darcy, realizing Elizabeth has not escaped, goes back in and brings both out. Elizabeth has been burned by falling debris and falls gravely ill due to her burns - some of which are on her face. She survives but is scarred. Ironically this saves her from Collins' proposal...as he relates his changed mind, saying that her scarred face prevents such. Even Wickham turns away...in public!
We often read of Darcy's thoughts. He has her on a pedestal but (as in canon) knows that duty to his family, her lack of wealth & connections and her family's behaviors are all reasons that he cannot propose. Her scars mean nothing to him. He and Elizabeth have become good friends. However, he leaves as soon as she is out of danger, giving himself 6 months to forget about her. But when he learns from Bingley that she is to visit Charlotte at Hunsford Darcy travels with the Colonel to Rosings...he can't stay away.
In a twist: Jane has already married Bingley. Darcy, in telling of that to his cousin, the Colonel, relates all the negatives of that marriage...those problems mentioned above. He doesn't tell the Colonel that Jane is a "Bennet". When at Hunsford Richard blurts out what Darcy has said about Jane, Elizabeth immediately makes the connection and her relationship with Darcy changes.
Darcy struggles to find a path to convince Elizabeth to marry him.
There are no surprises in this story but I enjoyed the different path the romance took herein. Even the Colonel had some admonishments about Darcy's putting obstacles in his own path.
The author's blurb introducing us to the premise of this story sets it up well. Darcy's attention and aid towards a severely injured servant girl and Elizabeth's follow-up care bring both together at Netherfield where Elizabeth has come to care for Jane, who has fallen ill. Then during the Netherfield Ball fire breaks out and Elizabeth rushes to the third floor to help the stricken Rose escape. Her broken leg impedes their progress as they become disoriented due to smoke and flames. Darcy, realizing Elizabeth has not escaped, goes back in and brings both out. Elizabeth has been burned by falling debris and falls gravely ill due to her burns - some of which are on her face. She survives but is scarred. Ironically this saves her from Collins' proposal...as he relates his changed mind, saying that her scarred face prevents such. Even Wickham turns away...in public!
We often read of Darcy's thoughts. He has her on a pedestal but (as in canon) knows that duty to his family, her lack of wealth & connections and her family's behaviors are all reasons that he cannot propose. Her scars mean nothing to him. He and Elizabeth have become good friends. However, he leaves as soon as she is out of danger, giving himself 6 months to forget about her. But when he learns from Bingley that she is to visit Charlotte at Hunsford Darcy travels with the Colonel to Rosings...he can't stay away.
In a twist: Jane has already married Bingley. Darcy, in telling of that to his cousin, the Colonel, relates all the negatives of that marriage...those problems mentioned above. He doesn't tell the Colonel that Jane is a "Bennet". When at Hunsford Richard blurts out what Darcy has said about Jane, Elizabeth immediately makes the connection and her relationship with Darcy changes.
Darcy struggles to find a path to convince Elizabeth to marry him.
There are no surprises in this story but I enjoyed the different path the romance took herein. Even the Colonel had some admonishments about Darcy's putting obstacles in his own path.
October 8, 2020
A neglected fireplace/chimney causes a fire during the Netherfield ball. Elizabeth Bennet rushes into the fire to save a servant and ends up needing to be saved herself by Mr. Darcy. While Elizabeth never thought herself to be as beautiful as Jane, she must now come to terms with the fact that she is permanently scarred (not hideously, but enough).
This story takes the usual pride and prejudice of our dear couple and adds just that one extra element, Elizabeth's insecurity about her looks. It had a few places with facts about a situation in the text rather than story dialogue, but it worked. It also has a few things I rather liked 1) a Lady Catherine I could respect 2) lots of advice for our dear couple to talk it out 3) the fact that they do!
This story takes the usual pride and prejudice of our dear couple and adds just that one extra element, Elizabeth's insecurity about her looks. It had a few places with facts about a situation in the text rather than story dialogue, but it worked. It also has a few things I rather liked 1) a Lady Catherine I could respect 2) lots of advice for our dear couple to talk it out 3) the fact that they do!
November 17, 2020
Is this the same E who walked 3 miles to Netherfield only to arrive with her petticoats 6 inches deep in mud and didn't care a whit? This was a tale of E & D & her scar. If E was this shallow, I wouldn't have bothered with P & P.
September 14, 2022
What a delightful story! I have always liked stories where Darcy and Elizabeth are friendly towards each other. This story has no villainy to speak of except of circumstances. Even Lady Catherine was loveable. It leaves you with a very warm feeling towards life.
pride-prejudice-variations
October 14, 2022Damaged goods
This author chooses some heavy topics to write about, and he does it so well. He combines strong emotions with great dialogue and exciting scenarios to create a story that's truly worth the time it takes to read it.
In this story, there is a lead-up to the Netherfield ball. During the ball, there is a chimney fire that burns Netherfield to the ground. Elizabeth recalls an injured servant on the third floor and goes up to get her. They lose their way in the smoke and both would have died if not for Mr. Darcy's rescue.
This is a wonderful story with Mrs. Bennet at her cruel best and Elizabeth, after a serous injury and an almost fatal infection, believes that she will never marry. Mr. Collins shows his true colors by rejecting Elizabeth in the harshest terms. And Mr. Darcy departs for Pemberley as soon as Elizabeth begins her recovery.
124
This author chooses some heavy topics to write about, and he does it so well. He combines strong emotions with great dialogue and exciting scenarios to create a story that's truly worth the time it takes to read it.
In this story, there is a lead-up to the Netherfield ball. During the ball, there is a chimney fire that burns Netherfield to the ground. Elizabeth recalls an injured servant on the third floor and goes up to get her. They lose their way in the smoke and both would have died if not for Mr. Darcy's rescue.
This is a wonderful story with Mrs. Bennet at her cruel best and Elizabeth, after a serous injury and an almost fatal infection, believes that she will never marry. Mr. Collins shows his true colors by rejecting Elizabeth in the harshest terms. And Mr. Darcy departs for Pemberley as soon as Elizabeth begins her recovery.
124
October 17, 2020
Avid Reader
A fire breaks out in Netherfield due to poorly maintained chimneys. A maid that Elizabeth grew up with and played with as a child broke her leg due to a rotten ladder. Elizabeth runs to help the girl when a burning picture hits Elizabeth in the and burns her face leaving a scar. Mr. Collins tells Elizabeth that he won't marry her because he saw her face immediately after the injury. He marries Charlotte. After Elizabeth heals, she is cut by Wickham because she is no longer beautiful. Darcy, however,had rescued Elizabeth and Rose from the fire, so he sees her scar differently!
A fire breaks out in Netherfield due to poorly maintained chimneys. A maid that Elizabeth grew up with and played with as a child broke her leg due to a rotten ladder. Elizabeth runs to help the girl when a burning picture hits Elizabeth in the and burns her face leaving a scar. Mr. Collins tells Elizabeth that he won't marry her because he saw her face immediately after the injury. He marries Charlotte. After Elizabeth heals, she is cut by Wickham because she is no longer beautiful. Darcy, however,had rescued Elizabeth and Rose from the fire, so he sees her scar differently!
October 22, 2020
This came recommended from my fellow JAFF lovers here on Goodreads. I am so happy I took a step back from my very long TBR list to read this new release. It was the first story I've read with a fire at Netherfield, and the whole story I was engaged, and had to know what was going to happen after. So much so that I read in the middle of the night after settling my baby. I enjoy that they still had their troubles that had to be worked out, and it wasn't just "OMG! You almost died! Let's marry!"
The one thing that would catch me is the moments where someone says something in company that would be typically said in a private conversation, and sometimes when someone is speaking (usually one of the men) it's almost like a stream of thoughts just babbling out of their mouth/fragments. I mean maybe we do speak that way, and I've never thought of it, I just was caught by it as I'm reading it.
The one thing that would catch me is the moments where someone says something in company that would be typically said in a private conversation, and sometimes when someone is speaking (usually one of the men) it's almost like a stream of thoughts just babbling out of their mouth/fragments. I mean maybe we do speak that way, and I've never thought of it, I just was caught by it as I'm reading it.
July 6, 2021
In this variation, Elizabeth gets a scar on her face while saving a servant from a fire. This book really spoke to me. A few months ago I had some skin cancer removed from my face, right near my eye. It left a long scar, and when they sewed my skin, they pulled skin from my nose. I lost some symmetry. I never thought I cared about my own looks so much, until this. My scar is nowhere near what Elizabeth's would be in this book, but I can feel her frustration.
The romance between Elizabeth and Darcy is fantastic and nicely done. My biggest complaint is Colonel Fitzwilliam. He didn't sound like a son of an Earl. He sounded off. And if I had a nickel every time someone said "Jove"...eventually the author tries to use a different word, but since he used Jove so much to begin with, my brain just snapped back to it.
Anyway - this is a good read. Would recommend.
The romance between Elizabeth and Darcy is fantastic and nicely done. My biggest complaint is Colonel Fitzwilliam. He didn't sound like a son of an Earl. He sounded off. And if I had a nickel every time someone said "Jove"...eventually the author tries to use a different word, but since he used Jove so much to begin with, my brain just snapped back to it.
Anyway - this is a good read. Would recommend.
September 23, 2022
A very intense read
This was a very different type of story. I really liked the premise and the interactions between characters. The only person I did not like was colonel fitzwilliam. In some ways he kept reminding me of Mr Collins and was distracting.
This was a very different type of story. I really liked the premise and the interactions between characters. The only person I did not like was colonel fitzwilliam. In some ways he kept reminding me of Mr Collins and was distracting.
January 4, 2021
An interesting lesson in safety of the times. I'm always amazed by the depths of investigation some of these stories require. A highly entertaining tale.
October 17, 2020
Great author
I automatically pick up books by Mr Underwood when they come out because he's reliably entertaining, and a talented writer. The story begins at Netherfield Park, when Elizabeth is there to tend to Jane who is ill. Elizabeth has a poor impression of Darcy, and Darcy is fighting his strong attraction to Elizabeth. Her opinion begins to change when Darcy comes to the aid of a servant who has fallen and broken her leg while cleaning at Netherfield. She's surprised by his kindness and care towards someone so far beneath his social status. Later, at the Netherfield ball, tragedy strikes, and Darcy again exhibits his courage, caring, and unselfish behavior. Elizabeth is badly injured in a fire, and her whole world changes as a result, clearly showing her the true characters and worth of her friends and family.
Elizabeth becoming disfigured is an interesting dilemma, and it's explored in detail, way too much detail. I'm all for delving into the psychological or societal impact of her perceived imperfection, but there is a great deal of content devoted to the burn itself, along with the excruciating pain, and all of the horrible secretions and other symptoms associated with a severe burn. I guess I don't read JAFF with a wish to be graphically educated on severe, mutilating injuries.
After her injury and recovery, Elizabeth seems to become somewhat of a sado-masochist, insisting that people discuss her scars, and tell her how her beauty is now ruined in the eyes of everyone, but especially men. She particularly confronts Darcy for his honest opinion, sure that he will declare her damaged, along with everyone. I find this almost self centered behavior on Elizabeth's part to be strange and distressing.
I guess in general I find the Elizabeth character in this book annoying. I want to have sympathy for her, but her odd behavior precludes that. The proposal scene was one of the most confusing and senseless that I've read, and then the second proposal made me want to just slap her. I almost wanted Darcy to just throw in the towel and walk away, but, of course, that's never going to happen.
In spite of this, there's a lot to like in this book. Darcy is wonderful and swoon worthy. Lady Catherine is, happily, a more reasonable person. The book is well written and well edited. This is definitely not one of the better efforts by this author, but I still recommend it.
I automatically pick up books by Mr Underwood when they come out because he's reliably entertaining, and a talented writer. The story begins at Netherfield Park, when Elizabeth is there to tend to Jane who is ill. Elizabeth has a poor impression of Darcy, and Darcy is fighting his strong attraction to Elizabeth. Her opinion begins to change when Darcy comes to the aid of a servant who has fallen and broken her leg while cleaning at Netherfield. She's surprised by his kindness and care towards someone so far beneath his social status. Later, at the Netherfield ball, tragedy strikes, and Darcy again exhibits his courage, caring, and unselfish behavior. Elizabeth is badly injured in a fire, and her whole world changes as a result, clearly showing her the true characters and worth of her friends and family.
Elizabeth becoming disfigured is an interesting dilemma, and it's explored in detail, way too much detail. I'm all for delving into the psychological or societal impact of her perceived imperfection, but there is a great deal of content devoted to the burn itself, along with the excruciating pain, and all of the horrible secretions and other symptoms associated with a severe burn. I guess I don't read JAFF with a wish to be graphically educated on severe, mutilating injuries.
After her injury and recovery, Elizabeth seems to become somewhat of a sado-masochist, insisting that people discuss her scars, and tell her how her beauty is now ruined in the eyes of everyone, but especially men. She particularly confronts Darcy for his honest opinion, sure that he will declare her damaged, along with everyone. I find this almost self centered behavior on Elizabeth's part to be strange and distressing.
I guess in general I find the Elizabeth character in this book annoying. I want to have sympathy for her, but her odd behavior precludes that. The proposal scene was one of the most confusing and senseless that I've read, and then the second proposal made me want to just slap her. I almost wanted Darcy to just throw in the towel and walk away, but, of course, that's never going to happen.
In spite of this, there's a lot to like in this book. Darcy is wonderful and swoon worthy. Lady Catherine is, happily, a more reasonable person. The book is well written and well edited. This is definitely not one of the better efforts by this author, but I still recommend it.
September 26, 2020
Very well written
Another interesting novel from the author. Everyone is a little OOC, a little less prefect and more quirky. Very gripping.
Another interesting novel from the author. Everyone is a little OOC, a little less prefect and more quirky. Very gripping.
June 7, 2025
Good
A case in point where beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Elizabeth is scarred in a fire after she helps rescue a servant, and while some, like Mrs. Bennet and Wickham only see the ugly scar, Darcy still sees a beautiful Elizabeth—both inside and out, as she struggles to believe it.
Not my favorite by this author, but still good.
June 5-6, 2025 -Audiobook
I like Benjamin Fife, but I find he is too breathy at times in his narration. His deep intakes of breath can distract and can pull me out of the story because I’m waiting for the next instance to occur. Also, American pronunciations of some words are used. Always a good effort though.
A case in point where beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Elizabeth is scarred in a fire after she helps rescue a servant, and while some, like Mrs. Bennet and Wickham only see the ugly scar, Darcy still sees a beautiful Elizabeth—both inside and out, as she struggles to believe it.
Not my favorite by this author, but still good.
June 5-6, 2025 -Audiobook
I like Benjamin Fife, but I find he is too breathy at times in his narration. His deep intakes of breath can distract and can pull me out of the story because I’m waiting for the next instance to occur. Also, American pronunciations of some words are used. Always a good effort though.
August 30, 2023
I do like Tim's work. This one's different from his others although he makes his own comparison with another of his work.
But I enjoyed it very much but I do like when ODC are uninjured in the story.
But I enjoyed it very much but I do like when ODC are uninjured in the story.
May 19, 2025
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder
I first read this story in 2024, then again in May 2025 with the audiobook that Benjamin Fife did an excellent job of narrating.
In the story, we have much more interaction between Darcy and Elizabeth for those who crave that. They still have their misunderstandings and prejudices to deal with. There is a new side character by the name of Rose. Her story helps to set up the neglect of the Netherfield estate by the current owner. This neglect ends up with her having a broken leg, which Darcy advocates for medical care as well as employment. The estate’s neglect then focuses on unmaintained chimneys & ends up having devastating consequences as there is a fire during the Netherfield ball. Thankfully, there are no lives lost, but that is due to heroic efforts, especially by Elizabeth and Darcy. Both do not come out of this uninjured. The most notable is a burn on Elizabeth’s face. Mrs. Bennet only sees how this will be detrimental to Elizabeth ever finding a good match. Darcy on the other hand, still sees the beauty that radiates from inside Elizabeth. Mr Collins is so focused on the outward appearance that he tells Elizabeth he will not even offer for her because of her injury. Unfortunately, for Elizabeth fever sets in and it is unknown if she will live, this devastates Darcy along with the others who love her. But have no fear the story continues.
Jump forward to Elizabeth healed up and is now visiting Huntsford. Darcy and Elizabeth rekindle their friendship that was built during Rose’s injury and then the fire. They both struggle with feelings from the past, prejudices, expectations, unfeeling sentiments verbally expressed, and more. Lady Catherine has her say but thankfully realizes what is for the best. It is worth the effort and heartache when people talk and truly work through their issues it is amazing what can happen.
I first read this story in 2024, then again in May 2025 with the audiobook that Benjamin Fife did an excellent job of narrating.
In the story, we have much more interaction between Darcy and Elizabeth for those who crave that. They still have their misunderstandings and prejudices to deal with. There is a new side character by the name of Rose. Her story helps to set up the neglect of the Netherfield estate by the current owner. This neglect ends up with her having a broken leg, which Darcy advocates for medical care as well as employment. The estate’s neglect then focuses on unmaintained chimneys & ends up having devastating consequences as there is a fire during the Netherfield ball. Thankfully, there are no lives lost, but that is due to heroic efforts, especially by Elizabeth and Darcy. Both do not come out of this uninjured. The most notable is a burn on Elizabeth’s face. Mrs. Bennet only sees how this will be detrimental to Elizabeth ever finding a good match. Darcy on the other hand, still sees the beauty that radiates from inside Elizabeth. Mr Collins is so focused on the outward appearance that he tells Elizabeth he will not even offer for her because of her injury. Unfortunately, for Elizabeth fever sets in and it is unknown if she will live, this devastates Darcy along with the others who love her. But have no fear the story continues.
Jump forward to Elizabeth healed up and is now visiting Huntsford. Darcy and Elizabeth rekindle their friendship that was built during Rose’s injury and then the fire. They both struggle with feelings from the past, prejudices, expectations, unfeeling sentiments verbally expressed, and more. Lady Catherine has her say but thankfully realizes what is for the best. It is worth the effort and heartache when people talk and truly work through their issues it is amazing what can happen.
January 2, 2021
Several merits despite some misgivings
This variation is engaging, very interesting in many parts, and quite original. The reader may have some misgivings about the writing such as stilted and staccato-like dialogue filled with repetitive monosyllabic words and expletives. Many of the main characters may seem more assertive, too forward bordering on improprieties and poor conduct which may be frowned upon as indecorous. However, one cannot discount the originality of this gem of a variation. Instead of focusing on servitude to degrade how society views Elizabeth Bennet as most variations have pursued, the author cleverly thought of the idea of physical defect/deformity on our beloved female protagonist. Character and virtue are given utmost consideration as to how Fitzwilliam Darcy highly esteemed Elizabeth Bennet. The way both of these characters discovered and explored their intertwining romantic feelings for one another also deserves merit. Elizabeth Bennet falls for Mr. Darcy early on, although does not admit it to herself; while Mr. Darcy knows he has fallen in love with Elizabeth from the very start yet resists such feelings due to concerns about her “abominable” family, lack of fortune and connections. This is where most of the angst lay. The most remarkable trait about this variation is the exchanges between our beloved couple, at times swoon-worthy, heart-wrenching, and finally satisfying. Dialogues which run from three to five pages long are what P&P variations ought to be made of, and made of plenty. Many JAFF authors should follow this trend.
This variation is engaging, very interesting in many parts, and quite original. The reader may have some misgivings about the writing such as stilted and staccato-like dialogue filled with repetitive monosyllabic words and expletives. Many of the main characters may seem more assertive, too forward bordering on improprieties and poor conduct which may be frowned upon as indecorous. However, one cannot discount the originality of this gem of a variation. Instead of focusing on servitude to degrade how society views Elizabeth Bennet as most variations have pursued, the author cleverly thought of the idea of physical defect/deformity on our beloved female protagonist. Character and virtue are given utmost consideration as to how Fitzwilliam Darcy highly esteemed Elizabeth Bennet. The way both of these characters discovered and explored their intertwining romantic feelings for one another also deserves merit. Elizabeth Bennet falls for Mr. Darcy early on, although does not admit it to herself; while Mr. Darcy knows he has fallen in love with Elizabeth from the very start yet resists such feelings due to concerns about her “abominable” family, lack of fortune and connections. This is where most of the angst lay. The most remarkable trait about this variation is the exchanges between our beloved couple, at times swoon-worthy, heart-wrenching, and finally satisfying. Dialogues which run from three to five pages long are what P&P variations ought to be made of, and made of plenty. Many JAFF authors should follow this trend.
October 25, 2024
Contiene spoiler.
Amo il romanzo della Austen. É il mio libro preferito e Darcy il mio personaggio letterario preferito. Perciò mi capita di leggere le variazioni di Orgoglio e Pregiudizio e di confrontarle fra loro e con l'originale ( comunque inarrivabile).
Questa si snoda sulla scansione temporale del romanzo originale, perciò direi che l'autore non ha giocato tantissimo di fantasia introducendo solo l'elemento "incendio" all'interno di una trama pressoché uguale. L'incendio ha certamente dato modo ad Elizabeth di esprimere il proprio coraggio e a Darcy ed al padre di mostrare l'attaccamento per Elizabeth portando alla descrizione delle pagine più belle del romanzo.
Mi ha anche interessato il piccolo trattato iniziale sugli incendi nelle case inglesi e sull'introduzione della assicurazione sugli incendi già dal grande incendio di Londra del 1600. Non lo sapevo, quindi mi ha fatto piacere imparare cose nuove.
Detto questo, il tratteggio dei personaggi principali mi ha lasciata con un po' di distubo.
Non riesco davvero a comprendere come Elizabeth possa dare cosí tanta attenzione alla sua bellezza che sembra essere sfiorita arrivando quasi a comportarsi come Lidia chiedendo agli uomini se sia ancora una bella o no. Cosí come non mi sembra verosimile neppure che Darcy davanti ad altra gente proclami l'ammirazione per Elizabeth in modo così esplicito e né che Lady Catherine si rassegni al matrimonio di Darcy.
Riesco quasi a giustificare maggiormente uno stravolgimento della trama, piuttosto che una differenza abbastanza marcata nel comportamento e nel carattere dei protagonisti.
Amo il romanzo della Austen. É il mio libro preferito e Darcy il mio personaggio letterario preferito. Perciò mi capita di leggere le variazioni di Orgoglio e Pregiudizio e di confrontarle fra loro e con l'originale ( comunque inarrivabile).
Questa si snoda sulla scansione temporale del romanzo originale, perciò direi che l'autore non ha giocato tantissimo di fantasia introducendo solo l'elemento "incendio" all'interno di una trama pressoché uguale. L'incendio ha certamente dato modo ad Elizabeth di esprimere il proprio coraggio e a Darcy ed al padre di mostrare l'attaccamento per Elizabeth portando alla descrizione delle pagine più belle del romanzo.
Mi ha anche interessato il piccolo trattato iniziale sugli incendi nelle case inglesi e sull'introduzione della assicurazione sugli incendi già dal grande incendio di Londra del 1600. Non lo sapevo, quindi mi ha fatto piacere imparare cose nuove.
Detto questo, il tratteggio dei personaggi principali mi ha lasciata con un po' di distubo.
Non riesco davvero a comprendere come Elizabeth possa dare cosí tanta attenzione alla sua bellezza che sembra essere sfiorita arrivando quasi a comportarsi come Lidia chiedendo agli uomini se sia ancora una bella o no. Cosí come non mi sembra verosimile neppure che Darcy davanti ad altra gente proclami l'ammirazione per Elizabeth in modo così esplicito e né che Lady Catherine si rassegni al matrimonio di Darcy.
Riesco quasi a giustificare maggiormente uno stravolgimento della trama, piuttosto che una differenza abbastanza marcata nel comportamento e nel carattere dei protagonisti.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2021
There's a fire at the Netherfield Ball and Elizabeth finds her face permanently scarred through the act of saving someone else. It sets off a chain reaction that eventually leads to the misunderstandings which make this book so original. If you read it for the misunderstandings, I think this book perfectly portrayed it through numerous lapses on both parts. If you read it for the strength of the characters then this book is lacking a bit.
There was a lot of historical information provided on the origins of the fire and other niche elements of the period which I feel added a lot to the story. It's easy to just say there was a fire but much more difficult to come up with a logical explanation for it and for why a singular person would have been trapped. I think that the author did a great job merging these elements into an original story.
The strength in character felt lacking, Elizabeth whined for literally probably 60 percent of it all. I don't think that she was considered such a beautiful character that this would have hindered her so much. I don't think marriage was on her mind as much as the author pushes it. She wouldn't have needed so many people boosting her confidence and it was a bit insulting to her as a character.
An interesting read overall though, I think things like this push the boundaries of convention and aren't really very likely twists but still fun to explore. I think it was pretty well-written and engaging all the way through the end.
This review and all my others can be found at: https://aworldshapedbybooks.blogspot....
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February 28, 2021DNF.
No one spoke in full sentences, they just mumbled half formed phrases, often grammatically incorrect, and repeated themselves. The author is American but it comes across as written by someone who doesn’t speak fluent English, which must have been intentional as it is not something that happens in his other books. Strange to read. Lizzy is far too OOC for me, obsessing about her physical attraction to Darcy and her own supposedly highly reputed beauty (which appears to be her only valued character trait). She sounded like Lydia. Even if this is taken as a stand-alone book her character is very contradictory. The character flaws of everyone else (particularly Bingley, Miss Bingley, Mrs Bennet, & Mr Collins) are exaggerated to the extreme.
I appreciated that the author attempted to go into a creating a credible reason for the fire and Lizzy’s injury, but it was overdone. Too much tell, not enough show. There was even a few pages regarding the insurance situation before we got to the action! It is also very unlikely that an grand English house only 50 years old in 1813 would be timber framed, particularly to the extent described, nor that only one person would be hurt in a fire of such magnitude during a crowded ball (even with the backstory).
I just couldn’t get invested in the story.
No one spoke in full sentences, they just mumbled half formed phrases, often grammatically incorrect, and repeated themselves. The author is American but it comes across as written by someone who doesn’t speak fluent English, which must have been intentional as it is not something that happens in his other books. Strange to read. Lizzy is far too OOC for me, obsessing about her physical attraction to Darcy and her own supposedly highly reputed beauty (which appears to be her only valued character trait). She sounded like Lydia. Even if this is taken as a stand-alone book her character is very contradictory. The character flaws of everyone else (particularly Bingley, Miss Bingley, Mrs Bennet, & Mr Collins) are exaggerated to the extreme.
I appreciated that the author attempted to go into a creating a credible reason for the fire and Lizzy’s injury, but it was overdone. Too much tell, not enough show. There was even a few pages regarding the insurance situation before we got to the action! It is also very unlikely that an grand English house only 50 years old in 1813 would be timber framed, particularly to the extent described, nor that only one person would be hurt in a fire of such magnitude during a crowded ball (even with the backstory).
I just couldn’t get invested in the story.
May 10, 2021
Generally, I enjoyed the tale. This was the first JAFF I had read in a very long time, so it was nice to return to the genre.
Mr. Underwood weaves a fine tale of Darcy and Lizzy's misunderstandings, and Darcy is more than a simple man of his word in this story. He is a man of action. He actually go into a burning building and carries Elizabeth out of the flames, nestled in his arms. Be still my heart! And that was in the first few chapters of the book. LOL!
I could have done without the too-numerous-to-count split infinitives in the tale. I know others do not catch these, but they "kinda" drive me crazy.
There were also points that were confusing. For example, in Chapter 9, we learn that Elizabeth travels to Hunsford Cottage with Sir William and Lady Lucas. Later, in the same chapter the other passenger is identified as Maria Lucas. Which was it? In the original tale, Maria travels with her father, Sir William Lucas, and Elizabeth. Did Mr. Underwood refer to Maria as "Lady Lucas"? If so, he erred. It was very distracting.
Also, to complicate that mistake, Darcy says "Miss Morris" is "an heiress and titled too." If the lady is a mere "Miss," she does not have a title. In fact, few women held titles beyond being the wife of a man of the peerage.
Mr. Underwood weaves a fine tale of Darcy and Lizzy's misunderstandings, and Darcy is more than a simple man of his word in this story. He is a man of action. He actually go into a burning building and carries Elizabeth out of the flames, nestled in his arms. Be still my heart! And that was in the first few chapters of the book. LOL!
I could have done without the too-numerous-to-count split infinitives in the tale. I know others do not catch these, but they "kinda" drive me crazy.
There were also points that were confusing. For example, in Chapter 9, we learn that Elizabeth travels to Hunsford Cottage with Sir William and Lady Lucas. Later, in the same chapter the other passenger is identified as Maria Lucas. Which was it? In the original tale, Maria travels with her father, Sir William Lucas, and Elizabeth. Did Mr. Underwood refer to Maria as "Lady Lucas"? If so, he erred. It was very distracting.
Also, to complicate that mistake, Darcy says "Miss Morris" is "an heiress and titled too." If the lady is a mere "Miss," she does not have a title. In fact, few women held titles beyond being the wife of a man of the peerage.
January 18, 2025
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. When Elizabeth Bennet heard the cry of ‘Fire!’ during the Netherfield ball she ran up to the higher floors to rescue a servant with a broken leg, but as they hurtled downstairs she became lost in the thick, roiling smoke, and just when Elizabeth began to despair, she heard Mr. Darcy’s hoarse voice cry her name. Mr. Darcy saved Elizabeth from the fire, but could he save her from her scars? The next time they meet will be at Rosings Park under Lady Catherine’s watchful gaze. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. Only negative thing is that it needs an epilogue to round out the story and bring it to a more satisfying ending. Other than that, it’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. When Elizabeth Bennet heard the cry of ‘Fire!’ during the Netherfield ball she ran up to the higher floors to rescue a servant with a broken leg, but as they hurtled downstairs she became lost in the thick, roiling smoke, and just when Elizabeth began to despair, she heard Mr. Darcy’s hoarse voice cry her name. Mr. Darcy saved Elizabeth from the fire, but could he save her from her scars? The next time they meet will be at Rosings Park under Lady Catherine’s watchful gaze. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. Only negative thing is that it needs an epilogue to round out the story and bring it to a more satisfying ending. Other than that, it’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
February 19, 2025
I'm struggling to review these a little. While they are enjoyable little stories, and I first discovered them on ao3 with Mr Collins Widow, I feel odd reviewing them here because in my mind they are still Fanfiction.
Now, I'm reviewing them together as they have provoked similar thoughts and feelings, there is nothing wrong with Fanfiction. Many books are Fanfiction, and I will praise them to the ends of the earth. But Fanfiction is ultimately free, and I think I regret spending money on these.
While decent reads, though quick, there is a hefty amount of repetition which gets old very quickly. In Mr Bennet's daughter especially the characterisation of certain characters seems very off. There also seems to many breaches of etiquette that are so different from the source that it makes me uncomfortable.
On the whole however, they're not bad little stories, but I think I have read enough now.
Now, I'm reviewing them together as they have provoked similar thoughts and feelings, there is nothing wrong with Fanfiction. Many books are Fanfiction, and I will praise them to the ends of the earth. But Fanfiction is ultimately free, and I think I regret spending money on these.
While decent reads, though quick, there is a hefty amount of repetition which gets old very quickly. In Mr Bennet's daughter especially the characterisation of certain characters seems very off. There also seems to many breaches of etiquette that are so different from the source that it makes me uncomfortable.
On the whole however, they're not bad little stories, but I think I have read enough now.
January 8, 2021
In "The Netherfield Fire", a firebrand out during the ball. Elizabeth hurries to the third floor to help an injured servant whom everyone else has forgotten. In the process of helping the servant, who has a broken leg, both become disoriented and Elizabth is stuck by burning debris. Mr. Darcy has returned inside the building when he did not see Elizabeth outside. He finds and saves the two women, but realizes that Elizabeth's face has been severely burned. The plot becomes Elizabeth's slow and painful recovery from her injury and the social impact of it. The characters are wonderful and the book is well written. I did find quite a few careless typos that are unusual in this author's work. Definitely a good read!
May 13, 2025
I love this story. There is a fire at Netherfield (well duh) and both Elizabeth and Darcy show their courage. She is injured and he fears for her life for a time. Later she is scarred, and her appearance is considered ruined, but Darcy does not really care about that. However, he still needs to prove his constancy. Lady Catherine played a lovely role here.
My only editing quibble is that whenever there was a word in italics next to some punctuation there was extra spacing. It happened so often I started noticing.
My only editing quibble is that whenever there was a word in italics next to some punctuation there was extra spacing. It happened so often I started noticing.
May 17, 2025
Genuine Affection
This was a unique variation that I had not considered. With the fire at Netherfield, it changed the type, intensity and depth of interactions between Darcy and Elizabeth while also focussing on deeper concepts of what truly attracts one person to another. For a very self-confident Elizabeth, it was wonderful yet also humbling to hear her thoughts. Familiar characters like Mr. Collins, Lady Catherine, Charlotte and Colonel Fitzwilliam each with slightly different interactions also made the story a pleasure to read.
This was a unique variation that I had not considered. With the fire at Netherfield, it changed the type, intensity and depth of interactions between Darcy and Elizabeth while also focussing on deeper concepts of what truly attracts one person to another. For a very self-confident Elizabeth, it was wonderful yet also humbling to hear her thoughts. Familiar characters like Mr. Collins, Lady Catherine, Charlotte and Colonel Fitzwilliam each with slightly different interactions also made the story a pleasure to read.
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