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Elizabeth Bennet's Gallant Suitor: A Pride and Prejudice Vagary
Elizabeth Bennet will not tolerate her dearest sister Jane being coerced into marriage. Yet, how she will prevent the “inevitable”? Jane, after all, has proven to be the granddaughter of Sir Wesley Belwood, a tyrannical baronet, who means to have his say in Jane’s marriage in order to preserve the family bloodlines. When Colonel Fitzwilliam appears at Stepton Abbey as the prospective groom, Elizabeth must join forces with the colonel’s cousin, a very handsome gentleman named Mr. Darcy, to prevent the unwanted betrothal.
Lacking in fortune and unconventionally handsome, Elizabeth Bennet is willing to risk everything so her beloved sister may have a happily ever after, even if Elizabeth must thwart all of Sir Wesley’s plans, as well as those of Mr. Darcy.
Fitzwilliam Darcy meant to flirt with the newly named Miss Belwood himself to prevent the girl’s marriage to his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, but one glance to Miss Elizabeth Bennet has Darcy considering everything but his cousin’s fate. Miss Elizabeth thought him a wastrel, but when incidents throw them together, they must combine forces to fight for love for the colonel, for Jane, and maybe, even for themselves.
Lacking in fortune and unconventionally handsome, Elizabeth Bennet is willing to risk everything so her beloved sister may have a happily ever after, even if Elizabeth must thwart all of Sir Wesley’s plans, as well as those of Mr. Darcy.
Fitzwilliam Darcy meant to flirt with the newly named Miss Belwood himself to prevent the girl’s marriage to his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, but one glance to Miss Elizabeth Bennet has Darcy considering everything but his cousin’s fate. Miss Elizabeth thought him a wastrel, but when incidents throw them together, they must combine forces to fight for love for the colonel, for Jane, and maybe, even for themselves.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 5, 2022
260 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
Regina Jeffers
132 books706 followersRegina Jeffers, an award-winning author of historical cozy mysteries, Austenesque sequels and retellings, as well as Regency era romances, has worn many hats over her lifetime: daughter, student, military brat, wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, tax preparer, journalist, choreographer, Broadway dancer, theatre director, history buff, grant writer, media literacy consultant, and author. Living outside of Charlotte, NC, Jeffers writes novels that take the ordinary and adds a bit of mayhem, while mastering tension in her own life with a bit of gardening and the exuberance of her “grand joys.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 8, 2022
Ending at 92% on my Kindle, I found myself struggling not to sob as Darcy joins Elizabeth in the afterlife.
There has been discussion on GRs about different tropes in this genre. In this variation of P&P we have Jane, being baptized as Jane Bennet, but who in reality is the daughter of Mr. Stewart Belwood, Sir Wesley’s second son, who died before his child was born. Now as Jane has reached her majority we have Sir Wesley Belwood of Stepton Abbey, demanding that Jane return to that estate and marry his nephew so as to carry on the blood line. That nephew is our Colonel Fitzwilliam. And so we find Jane becoming a NSNJ (Not So Nice Jane) as she now has so much more to offer any suitor. Jane's opinion of herself has drastically changed.
Jane has already been wooed by Bingley but when he doesn't return to Netherfield for a long period of time and with no word or message to Jane as to WHY, Jane wants nothing to do with him when he does return and apologizes.
Bingley's situation is different herein. He and his sisters are on the out. He has lost 2 ships at sea and now wants to breed horses. That thread becomes an important part of this tale. There is some mystery attached. Darcy does offer to help Bingley but Bingley has a mare he plans to race and is betting on her success: again another vital part of our story.
Darcy and Elizabeth have a rough relationship to begin with but as they eventually get to know this "new" Jane they find themselves working together. Elizabeth finds she has lost her dear Jane in more than one way. Jane is now Miss Belwood.
This is a longer story with various twists and turns. There is a long epilogue, listing several generations and their lives. I have read over two dozen of this author's stories with the majority being 4 or 5 stars reviews from me. I highly recommend this story. Regina Jeffers does not disappoint.
And isn't the cover beautiful?!
There has been discussion on GRs about different tropes in this genre. In this variation of P&P we have Jane, being baptized as Jane Bennet, but who in reality is the daughter of Mr. Stewart Belwood, Sir Wesley’s second son, who died before his child was born. Now as Jane has reached her majority we have Sir Wesley Belwood of Stepton Abbey, demanding that Jane return to that estate and marry his nephew so as to carry on the blood line. That nephew is our Colonel Fitzwilliam. And so we find Jane becoming a NSNJ (Not So Nice Jane) as she now has so much more to offer any suitor. Jane's opinion of herself has drastically changed.
Jane has already been wooed by Bingley but when he doesn't return to Netherfield for a long period of time and with no word or message to Jane as to WHY, Jane wants nothing to do with him when he does return and apologizes.
Bingley's situation is different herein. He and his sisters are on the out. He has lost 2 ships at sea and now wants to breed horses. That thread becomes an important part of this tale. There is some mystery attached. Darcy does offer to help Bingley but Bingley has a mare he plans to race and is betting on her success: again another vital part of our story.
Darcy and Elizabeth have a rough relationship to begin with but as they eventually get to know this "new" Jane they find themselves working together. Elizabeth finds she has lost her dear Jane in more than one way. Jane is now Miss Belwood.
This is a longer story with various twists and turns. There is a long epilogue, listing several generations and their lives. I have read over two dozen of this author's stories with the majority being 4 or 5 stars reviews from me. I highly recommend this story. Regina Jeffers does not disappoint.
And isn't the cover beautiful?!
October 6, 2022
An earlier attraction Sparks A Deliciously Tempestuous Courtship.
Dear reader, this book may be chaste but the chemistry between these two is brilliantly done. From the very first chapter, you feel a smoldering attraction between Darcy and Elizabeth, as they quickly move from an adversarial relationship to a tentative understanding that their intentions are the same.
Check out my experiential review on pemberleydarcy.com/blog
Where I explore the imagery, thoughts, and emotions they keep us turning the page. You'll be able to read it just fine on mobile but tablet and laptop users will be able to see more graphics.
Dear reader, this book may be chaste but the chemistry between these two is brilliantly done. From the very first chapter, you feel a smoldering attraction between Darcy and Elizabeth, as they quickly move from an adversarial relationship to a tentative understanding that their intentions are the same.
Check out my experiential review on pemberleydarcy.com/blog
Where I explore the imagery, thoughts, and emotions they keep us turning the page. You'll be able to read it just fine on mobile but tablet and laptop users will be able to see more graphics.
October 7, 2022
A wonderful book
A page turning story that will jeep you wondering what happened...who is the bad guy...what...why did this happen...as you have out beloved characters defending they're loved ones or uniting in the fronts against Sie Wesley the evil character....it will not disappoint it was lovely to see this twist of a story bit with out loved characters in it enjoyed it
A page turning story that will jeep you wondering what happened...who is the bad guy...what...why did this happen...as you have out beloved characters defending they're loved ones or uniting in the fronts against Sie Wesley the evil character....it will not disappoint it was lovely to see this twist of a story bit with out loved characters in it enjoyed it
October 6, 2022
Average
Jane Bennet is Mrs. Bennet's daughter from a previous marriage and turns out to be of noble birth. The plot revolves entirely around her marriage prospects which involves the Fitzwilliam family, to whom she is distantly related. ODC join forces to affect the outcome, though in the end, their influence proves inconsequential and, in fact, unnecessary as the interested parties seem to have their love lives well in hand all on their own.
Darcy and Elizabeth do have some cute repartee throughout the story but it's not enough to make up for a dull plot where very little of interest happens. For instance, THE major event is a long-winded exposition on horse racing. It's dry and tedious and added nothing to the story. Also, propriety is completely flouted as Darcy casually starts referring to Elizabeth as "my dear" and the men make late night calls to their respective lady's bed chambers all within only a few weeks' acquaintance. Though seemingly chaste for the most part, this hasty familiarity just would not happen in this time period, as I'm certain the author well knows.
Again, this story is another example of the author's employment of awkward word usage ("he knew disappointment", "she held no idea") and it drives me to distraction. It's a nitpick to be sure but for me it overshadows the whole experience.
Jane Bennet is Mrs. Bennet's daughter from a previous marriage and turns out to be of noble birth. The plot revolves entirely around her marriage prospects which involves the Fitzwilliam family, to whom she is distantly related. ODC join forces to affect the outcome, though in the end, their influence proves inconsequential and, in fact, unnecessary as the interested parties seem to have their love lives well in hand all on their own.
Darcy and Elizabeth do have some cute repartee throughout the story but it's not enough to make up for a dull plot where very little of interest happens. For instance, THE major event is a long-winded exposition on horse racing. It's dry and tedious and added nothing to the story. Also, propriety is completely flouted as Darcy casually starts referring to Elizabeth as "my dear" and the men make late night calls to their respective lady's bed chambers all within only a few weeks' acquaintance. Though seemingly chaste for the most part, this hasty familiarity just would not happen in this time period, as I'm certain the author well knows.
Again, this story is another example of the author's employment of awkward word usage ("he knew disappointment", "she held no idea") and it drives me to distraction. It's a nitpick to be sure but for me it overshadows the whole experience.
October 12, 2022
Here I am in the minority again. Love the premise, has so much potential. As per the reviews, most readers will like it.
However,
1- if you took away 95% of the times Darcy Lusted after Elizabeth yet told himself she was an impossibility, you would have less than a novella length book. Repetition is thy subtitle!
2- Gaps, which would make the adult characters more human/believable:
Col. F-Mary, how did they click? We walk in and they are playing piano together 2 weeks later engaged.
D-E, aside from physical attraction on his part to admiration for her personality and intelligence, where was her growth towards him. Also, we are told D is reticent, however this was one smooth operator who took advantage of improprieties many many times! E was almost as bad, not to mention a hypocrite (Tells on Jane when she rolls around on the ground with D, only difference, no one saw)
3- Jane- From one flat character to the opposite flat. Where is the compassion towards (we are told) how badly she was raised and then rug ripped out from under. And SHE is 'punished' for Vile Lindale rakish behavior?
For a change Bingley was my favorite character, follow that with Kitty and Miss Darcy.
Interesting affectational writing, although I didn't enjoy it.
However,
1- if you took away 95% of the times Darcy Lusted after Elizabeth yet told himself she was an impossibility, you would have less than a novella length book. Repetition is thy subtitle!
2- Gaps, which would make the adult characters more human/believable:
Col. F-Mary, how did they click? We walk in and they are playing piano together 2 weeks later engaged.
D-E, aside from physical attraction on his part to admiration for her personality and intelligence, where was her growth towards him. Also, we are told D is reticent, however this was one smooth operator who took advantage of improprieties many many times! E was almost as bad, not to mention a hypocrite (Tells on Jane when she rolls around on the ground with D, only difference, no one saw)
3- Jane- From one flat character to the opposite flat. Where is the compassion towards (we are told) how badly she was raised and then rug ripped out from under. And SHE is 'punished' for Vile Lindale rakish behavior?
For a change Bingley was my favorite character, follow that with Kitty and Miss Darcy.
Interesting affectational writing, although I didn't enjoy it.
November 2, 2022
In this vagary, Jane is not a true Bennet as Mrs. Bennet was previously married to Mr. Stewart Belwood who died in a carriage accident. Mrs. Bennet was pregnant at the time and when her daughter was born, she was removed to her family home where Mr. Bennet met and married her claiming her daughter as his own. However, Jane and her 'half-sisters' knew nothing of this until Jane Bennet comes of age and her paternal grandfather, Sir Wesley Belwood, interferes in their lives.
"He knew in that instant she would change his life in ways he had not anticipated." (quote from the book)
I am struggling to write this review. I was frustrated with this Mr. Darcy and found his actions and thoughts kept contradicting each other and his excuses weak. Miss Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy start off on the wrong foot, but soon they are working together. There is definite chemistry between them which leapt off the pages.
"I had never thought my heart could know such happiness, nor such despair. I am not certain I care to venture forth again if such is the way of the world." (quote from the book)
I had great sympathy for this Jane 'Belwood' Bennet. Her life was turned upside down and she was in a free fall. I feel Mr. Bennet and Mrs. Bennet failed her spectacularly. She lashes out in ways that only worsen her situation and ostracize her further from the Bennet family.
"It is as if she is in a small boat on rocky seas and does not know if anyone will save her." (quote from the book)
Ms. Jeffers has long been a favourite author of mine. There were some inconsistencies within this story, but it was more the overall story that irked me. So please, look at other reviews of those who loved the story.
October 7, 2022
Jane is a half sister
What if Jane was Mrs. Bennet’s child but her father was son of a Baron. A completely different start to Pride and Prejudice. The story trods new paths for our JAFF characters/friends. Well written and a lot of fun to read. The arc of the Bennet daughter’s lives is full of different outcomes.
4.5 stars rounded up.
What if Jane was Mrs. Bennet’s child but her father was son of a Baron. A completely different start to Pride and Prejudice. The story trods new paths for our JAFF characters/friends. Well written and a lot of fun to read. The arc of the Bennet daughter’s lives is full of different outcomes.
4.5 stars rounded up.
November 13, 2022
A wonderful offering from Regina Jeffers
I love Regina Jeffers books, but this one I could not put down until I finished it. It is a different take on Mrs Bennet and one Jane Bennet in particular. I loved how the book flowed and kept my interest until the last.
I was even in tears at the very end. This one is definitely going in my favourite JAFF to be read again. Thank you Regina for such an excellent story so well told.
I love Regina Jeffers books, but this one I could not put down until I finished it. It is a different take on Mrs Bennet and one Jane Bennet in particular. I loved how the book flowed and kept my interest until the last.
I was even in tears at the very end. This one is definitely going in my favourite JAFF to be read again. Thank you Regina for such an excellent story so well told.
October 12, 2022
I am so in love with this book!
The best Elizabeth and Darcy story I have read so far! The camaraderie, the friendship and unspoken love in between the storyline is well written. The Colonel and Mary's story touched me. Oh Ms. Jeffers, I was not expecting the end of the story! I cried buckets!
I highly recommend.... It's that good.
The best Elizabeth and Darcy story I have read so far! The camaraderie, the friendship and unspoken love in between the storyline is well written. The Colonel and Mary's story touched me. Oh Ms. Jeffers, I was not expecting the end of the story! I cried buckets!
I highly recommend.... It's that good.
October 9, 2022
Jane is not a Bennet
Jane, born to Mrs. Bennet after her first husband dies and raised by Thomas Bennet, has been called away from Longbourn by her paternal grandfather, who wants her to marry Colonel Fitzwilliam, his nephew. Darcy and Elizabeth both do not want them to be forced to marry someone they do not love.
This Jane cannot forgive Bingley for abandoning her when he left Netherfield. CF becomes interested in Mary. Darcy and Elizabeth develop a close friendship once CF sets her straight about Wickham and she apologizes. Bingley wants to raise horses.
I enjoyed the plot and ODC’s relationship. Their dialogue and interactions were engaging. Everyone was nice except Jane and her grandfather. The supporting characters were all very likeable.
One of my favourite scenes in this book is when Elizabeth and Darcy take the very young groom, Toby, through the track he will race on Bingley’s Arabian horse. Darcy talks him through it. It touched me for some reason. I also liked the tree scene. Oh yeah.
While still not perfect, I was glad to see improved proofreading. Still too many commas and unnecessarily over-long sentences for me.
Clean content, with some suggestive situations. Have tissues on hand for the final chapter.
Recommend
Jane, born to Mrs. Bennet after her first husband dies and raised by Thomas Bennet, has been called away from Longbourn by her paternal grandfather, who wants her to marry Colonel Fitzwilliam, his nephew. Darcy and Elizabeth both do not want them to be forced to marry someone they do not love.
This Jane cannot forgive Bingley for abandoning her when he left Netherfield. CF becomes interested in Mary. Darcy and Elizabeth develop a close friendship once CF sets her straight about Wickham and she apologizes. Bingley wants to raise horses.
I enjoyed the plot and ODC’s relationship. Their dialogue and interactions were engaging. Everyone was nice except Jane and her grandfather. The supporting characters were all very likeable.
One of my favourite scenes in this book is when Elizabeth and Darcy take the very young groom, Toby, through the track he will race on Bingley’s Arabian horse. Darcy talks him through it. It touched me for some reason. I also liked the tree scene. Oh yeah.
While still not perfect, I was glad to see improved proofreading. Still too many commas and unnecessarily over-long sentences for me.
Clean content, with some suggestive situations. Have tissues on hand for the final chapter.
Recommend
October 10, 2022
I always enjoy this writer's work, and this book was no exception. I really enjoyed the differences from canon, which made this book unique. If you have read the book blurb, you know the premise of the book. There are so many new possibilities introduced, creating a very original page-turner. The characters, although very altered from the original P&P, are so well written that you see Jane in a completely different light and Mary is a breath of fresh air.
This author is very detailed in her research and her work, and for me this is a huge plus, because she gives us a very accurate depiction of the era.
I don't want to give anything away, but you may wish to have tissue on hand. I needed them, with Regina's final twist! So, so good!
This author is very detailed in her research and her work, and for me this is a huge plus, because she gives us a very accurate depiction of the era.
I don't want to give anything away, but you may wish to have tissue on hand. I needed them, with Regina's final twist! So, so good!
October 5, 2022
2 and a half stars, rounded up. Definitely flawed, but ultimately still sweet. The first third of the book was very weak, I didn’t like the characterisation and there were some strange attempts at displaying Elizabeth’s intellect which consisted of her reciting the Domesday book and randomly recounting the etymology of words in the middle of polite conversation. It picked up in the second and third parts, but Darcy was rather lacking in commitment and indecisive - almost a Bingley type where Mr Bennet basically bullied him into proposing rather than resolving to do so himself. I love a story with a flawed Jane but she was a bit too confusing in this. Her change came so suddenly with little convincing explanation.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2022
Jane is a bitch & if you exclusively read books for the HEA, maybe don’t read the entire epilogue- cuz I hated it.
August 13, 2025
In this Pride and Prejudice variation can Elizabeth Bennet and Darcy prevent the arranged marriage instigated by Sir Wesley Belwood between his nephew Colonel Fitzwilliam and his granddaughter Jane Belwood previously known as Bennet. A daughter from Mrs Bennet's first marriage. Do either Jane and the Colonel want the marriage or are there other options.
An entertaining and well-written story which thankfully other Bennet daughters stories were also told not just Elizabeth's. Though I would have prefered more time spent with Mary and possibly Jane.
A re-read. Again
An entertaining and well-written story which thankfully other Bennet daughters stories were also told not just Elizabeth's. Though I would have prefered more time spent with Mary and possibly Jane.
A re-read. Again
October 10, 2022
3 &1/2 stars rounded to 4. Excellent non-canon story. ODC meet under completely different conditions. Jane is not a Bennet and becomes a haughty bitch. This is a longer read with some repetition - something occurs and then the situation is explained in full to a 3rd party. I skimmed through the final chapter which time jumps and backtracks - I really didn't care who Georgiana married or how many children she had.
October 21, 2022
Wow! This book did Jane dirty. I kept waiting for a redemption arc that never came.
If you can put aside the fact that this book is entirely too long, and not historically accurate (Mr Darcy calling Lizzy 'my dear' night time visits to bed chambers, passionate kissing in the garden, or even the amount of non-sexual PDAs between Darcy and Lizzy) then you will enjoy the friendship between Darcy and Lizzy. Unfortunately, I felt like the plot was convoluted and dealt with mostly off-page.
I did love the relationships between Lizzy and Mary, and Lizzy and Kitty. I liked Mr Darcy's interactions with Mr Bennet. I liked Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mary together (although I felt like it happened too quickly.) I liked the way the author repurposed dialogue from the original into new scenes (although I didn't love stealing dialogue from Persuasion, maybe that's a trope in Austen retellings I'm not aware of?).
My recommendation, if you read this book, is not to read the epilogue. In trying to tie everything up with a nice neat bow, it spoils the happily ever after.
Overall, this book was a fun read (I read it in one sitting, and it kept me up till the small hours of the night), but probably not one I'll revisit.
If you can put aside the fact that this book is entirely too long, and not historically accurate (Mr Darcy calling Lizzy 'my dear' night time visits to bed chambers, passionate kissing in the garden, or even the amount of non-sexual PDAs between Darcy and Lizzy) then you will enjoy the friendship between Darcy and Lizzy. Unfortunately, I felt like the plot was convoluted and dealt with mostly off-page.
I did love the relationships between Lizzy and Mary, and Lizzy and Kitty. I liked Mr Darcy's interactions with Mr Bennet. I liked Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mary together (although I felt like it happened too quickly.) I liked the way the author repurposed dialogue from the original into new scenes (although I didn't love stealing dialogue from Persuasion, maybe that's a trope in Austen retellings I'm not aware of?).
My recommendation, if you read this book, is not to read the epilogue. In trying to tie everything up with a nice neat bow, it spoils the happily ever after.
Overall, this book was a fun read (I read it in one sitting, and it kept me up till the small hours of the night), but probably not one I'll revisit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2022
Interesting take.
There's a lot going on here that I can appreciate, and somethings left me with questions.
Darcy and Elizabeth come to an early understanding.
I like Darcy's term of endearment for Elizabeth.
Jane is not the sweet, angelic sister, but I'm not exactly sure what caused the change.
I found Elizabeth, Mary and Kitty sisterly bond refreshing.
Sir Wesley started off with a strong presence. What happened to him?
What happened with Lindale? Why didn't he see Jane as a possibility? I'm curious.
Did Mrs. Bennett receive her cottage?
I like the different pairings.
Definitely didn't care for the ending.
IMHO, Jane makes the perfect villain because I can sort of picture her, to a very small degree, as a female Wickham- all beauty, sweet words, mother/godfather felt they can do no wrong so the child grew up expecting big things, and they smiles too much 😁, all the while hiding their true nature. Not that the story main focus is on Jane's bad attitude, but it did change the dynamics.
There's a lot going on here that I can appreciate, and somethings left me with questions.
Darcy and Elizabeth come to an early understanding.
I like Darcy's term of endearment for Elizabeth.
Jane is not the sweet, angelic sister, but I'm not exactly sure what caused the change.
I found Elizabeth, Mary and Kitty sisterly bond refreshing.
Sir Wesley started off with a strong presence. What happened to him?
What happened with Lindale? Why didn't he see Jane as a possibility? I'm curious.
Did Mrs. Bennett receive her cottage?
I like the different pairings.
Definitely didn't care for the ending.
IMHO, Jane makes the perfect villain because I can sort of picture her, to a very small degree, as a female Wickham- all beauty, sweet words, mother/godfather felt they can do no wrong so the child grew up expecting big things, and they smiles too much 😁, all the while hiding their true nature. Not that the story main focus is on Jane's bad attitude, but it did change the dynamics.
November 11, 2022
Elizabeth Bennet will not tolerate her dearest sister Jane being coerced into marriage. Yet, how she will prevent the “inevitable”? Jane, after all, has proven to be the granddaughter of Sir Wesley Belwood, a tyrannical baronet, who means to have his say in Jane’s marriage in order to preserve the family bloodlines. When Colonel Fitzwilliam appears at Stepton Abbey as the prospective groom, Elizabeth must join forces with the colonel’s cousin, a very handsome gentleman named Mr. Darcy, to prevent the unwanted betrothal.
Lacking in fortune and unconventionally handsome, Elizabeth Bennet is willing to risk everything so her beloved sister may have a happily ever after, even if Elizabeth must thwart all of Sir Wesley’s plans, as well as those of Mr. Darcy.
Fitzwilliam Darcy meant to flirt with the newly named Miss Belwood himself to prevent the girl’s marriage to his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, but one glance to Miss Elizabeth Bennet has Darcy considering everything but his cousin’s fate. Miss Elizabeth thought him a wastrel, but when incidents throw them together, they must combine forces to fight for love for the colonel, for Jane, and maybe, even for themselves.
This is a Pride and Prejudice novel.
It is a knock off of the original story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Lacking in fortune and unconventionally handsome, Elizabeth Bennet is willing to risk everything so her beloved sister may have a happily ever after, even if Elizabeth must thwart all of Sir Wesley’s plans, as well as those of Mr. Darcy.
Fitzwilliam Darcy meant to flirt with the newly named Miss Belwood himself to prevent the girl’s marriage to his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, but one glance to Miss Elizabeth Bennet has Darcy considering everything but his cousin’s fate. Miss Elizabeth thought him a wastrel, but when incidents throw them together, they must combine forces to fight for love for the colonel, for Jane, and maybe, even for themselves.
This is a Pride and Prejudice novel.
It is a knock off of the original story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
October 8, 2022
Quite different
This story makes reference to some of the happenings of the original story but it is a completely out of canon vagary. It is a great adventure and entertaining tale. Thoroughly recommended.
This story makes reference to some of the happenings of the original story but it is a completely out of canon vagary. It is a great adventure and entertaining tale. Thoroughly recommended.
March 14, 2023
Wonderful
An interesting premise and a very emotionally charged variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Regina Jeffers. I enjoyed it very much.
An interesting premise and a very emotionally charged variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Regina Jeffers. I enjoyed it very much.
November 16, 2022
📜 Elizabeth Bennet's Gallant Suitor 🐎
A Pride and Prejudice Vagary
✒️ Regina Jeffers
https://www.facebook.com/Regina-Jeffe...
Release Date 10/05/2022
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGFHCD1J?...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Elizabeth Bennet will not tolerate her dearest sister Jane being coerced into marriage. Yet, how she will prevent the “inevitable”? Jane, after all, has proven to be the granddaughter of Sir Wesley Belwood, a tyrannical baronet, who means to have his say in Jane’s marriage in order to preserve the family bloodlines. When Colonel Fitzwilliam appears at Stepton Abbey as the prospective groom, Elizabeth must join forces with the colonel’s cousin, a very handsome gentleman named Mr. Darcy, to prevent the unwanted betrothal.
Lacking in fortune and unconventionally handsome, Elizabeth Bennet is willing to risk everything so her beloved sister may have a happily ever after, even if Elizabeth must thwart all of Sir Wesley’s plans, as well as those of Mr. Darcy.
Fitzwilliam Darcy meant to flirt with the newly named Miss Belwood himself to prevent the girl’s marriage to his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, but one glance to Miss Elizabeth Bennet has Darcy considering everything but his cousin’s fate. Miss Elizabeth thought him a wastrel, but when incidents throw them together, they must combine forces to fight for love for the colonel, for Jane, and maybe, even for themselves
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
When fortune does not equal happiness …
This book being my second read by the author, I understand a bit more the difference between variation and vagary, and there is again this long epilogue with its bittersweet moments that make you sniff and sigh at the same time.
I love how all the Bennet girls have their time under the limelight, for the better or the worst.
Plus it is not often Jane is portrayed under a less than pristine perspective to offer in exchange to Mary a bit of her usual kind and gentle aura.
Lizzie is her witty clever self, with a temper to match it why she butts head with Darcy from the beginning but she is not too high in the step to apologize when she learns she has been in the wrong. Why while they could have easily turned into enemies, they both are reasonable enough to see they could be allies, even if they from time to time cross words if necessary.
Darcy is the one with blinders, quickly falling under Elizabeth’s spell but fighting to keep his head over water, determined to hold on his bachelorhood. He acknowledges she has become his own measuring scale about what he is seeking in a future spouse, all the while not deeming her right for the title.
If not for Mr Bennet’s talk, I would have bashed his stubborn skull.
Yet this book is more than their romance, in some way, it made me thought of Little Women, as all the sisters are shown the path to their HEA, or not, if they are willing to fight for it.
Jane by letting her pride take the better of herself, she dooms her future happiness, while Mary shines under the gaze of a man who sees her worthiness, Kitty in dissociating herself from her younger sister Lydia walks the first steps toward a merry union. Even Mrs Bennet and Lydia are granted new choices.
The added plot into the main scenario supplemented the whole tale with mystery and intrigue, as much entertaining as the original storyline.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 kisses
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
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A Pride and Prejudice Vagary
✒️ Regina Jeffers
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Release Date 10/05/2022
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGFHCD1J?...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Elizabeth Bennet will not tolerate her dearest sister Jane being coerced into marriage. Yet, how she will prevent the “inevitable”? Jane, after all, has proven to be the granddaughter of Sir Wesley Belwood, a tyrannical baronet, who means to have his say in Jane’s marriage in order to preserve the family bloodlines. When Colonel Fitzwilliam appears at Stepton Abbey as the prospective groom, Elizabeth must join forces with the colonel’s cousin, a very handsome gentleman named Mr. Darcy, to prevent the unwanted betrothal.
Lacking in fortune and unconventionally handsome, Elizabeth Bennet is willing to risk everything so her beloved sister may have a happily ever after, even if Elizabeth must thwart all of Sir Wesley’s plans, as well as those of Mr. Darcy.
Fitzwilliam Darcy meant to flirt with the newly named Miss Belwood himself to prevent the girl’s marriage to his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, but one glance to Miss Elizabeth Bennet has Darcy considering everything but his cousin’s fate. Miss Elizabeth thought him a wastrel, but when incidents throw them together, they must combine forces to fight for love for the colonel, for Jane, and maybe, even for themselves
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
When fortune does not equal happiness …
This book being my second read by the author, I understand a bit more the difference between variation and vagary, and there is again this long epilogue with its bittersweet moments that make you sniff and sigh at the same time.
I love how all the Bennet girls have their time under the limelight, for the better or the worst.
Plus it is not often Jane is portrayed under a less than pristine perspective to offer in exchange to Mary a bit of her usual kind and gentle aura.
Lizzie is her witty clever self, with a temper to match it why she butts head with Darcy from the beginning but she is not too high in the step to apologize when she learns she has been in the wrong. Why while they could have easily turned into enemies, they both are reasonable enough to see they could be allies, even if they from time to time cross words if necessary.
Darcy is the one with blinders, quickly falling under Elizabeth’s spell but fighting to keep his head over water, determined to hold on his bachelorhood. He acknowledges she has become his own measuring scale about what he is seeking in a future spouse, all the while not deeming her right for the title.
If not for Mr Bennet’s talk, I would have bashed his stubborn skull.
Yet this book is more than their romance, in some way, it made me thought of Little Women, as all the sisters are shown the path to their HEA, or not, if they are willing to fight for it.
Jane by letting her pride take the better of herself, she dooms her future happiness, while Mary shines under the gaze of a man who sees her worthiness, Kitty in dissociating herself from her younger sister Lydia walks the first steps toward a merry union. Even Mrs Bennet and Lydia are granted new choices.
The added plot into the main scenario supplemented the whole tale with mystery and intrigue, as much entertaining as the original storyline.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 kisses
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
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October 19, 2022
Wonderful
A P&P re-imagining, as there's just a small resemblance to the original. Mrs Bennett was married before to a second son of a baronet, and she was pregnant with Jane when her first husband died. This first marriage caused a break from the family, as her father-in-law didn't approve of her. Later, she meets and marries Thomas Bennett, and he accepts Jane as his own, and they raise her with the other four Bennett girls. When Jane is twenty-two years old, her paternal grandfather mysteriously demands that she marry Colonel Fitzwilliam. Mrs Bennett, Elizabeth and Jane, along with Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy, travel to Stepton Abbey, which Jane will inherit. There, Elizabeth and Darcy from an alliance to prevent a marriage that nobody wants, except the sinister Lord Wesley Belwood, Jane's grandfather and Mrs Bennett's father-in-law.
This is a very odd, but compelling story. Be prepared for a very out-of-character Darcy. The development of his relationship with Elizabeth is lovely, but this is not the Darcy of stiff propriety and extreme aloofness. This Darcy is a bit of a rake, complete with uncontrolled lascivious thoughts. It's fun to read about, but very un-Darcy. There's a great deal of behavior and talk that I don't believe would fly in Regency era.
This is a complex story, and Darcy and Elizabeth are the main focus, but equally important is the story of Jane Bennett, who eventually takes her father's surname Jane Belwood. Unfortunately, along with the name change, she undergoes some sad changes in disposition and character. The consequences of this are far-reaching, and it casts a pall on much of the story.
The book is well written, but there are a significant number of editing errors, enough that it sometimes disturbs the flow of the story. In particular, the author likes to use quotation marks where they're not really necessary or appropriate. The book could use a good proofreading.
However, it's an enjoyable story, an imaginative premise, a pleasant way to pass some time. I recommend it.
A P&P re-imagining, as there's just a small resemblance to the original. Mrs Bennett was married before to a second son of a baronet, and she was pregnant with Jane when her first husband died. This first marriage caused a break from the family, as her father-in-law didn't approve of her. Later, she meets and marries Thomas Bennett, and he accepts Jane as his own, and they raise her with the other four Bennett girls. When Jane is twenty-two years old, her paternal grandfather mysteriously demands that she marry Colonel Fitzwilliam. Mrs Bennett, Elizabeth and Jane, along with Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy, travel to Stepton Abbey, which Jane will inherit. There, Elizabeth and Darcy from an alliance to prevent a marriage that nobody wants, except the sinister Lord Wesley Belwood, Jane's grandfather and Mrs Bennett's father-in-law.
This is a very odd, but compelling story. Be prepared for a very out-of-character Darcy. The development of his relationship with Elizabeth is lovely, but this is not the Darcy of stiff propriety and extreme aloofness. This Darcy is a bit of a rake, complete with uncontrolled lascivious thoughts. It's fun to read about, but very un-Darcy. There's a great deal of behavior and talk that I don't believe would fly in Regency era.
This is a complex story, and Darcy and Elizabeth are the main focus, but equally important is the story of Jane Bennett, who eventually takes her father's surname Jane Belwood. Unfortunately, along with the name change, she undergoes some sad changes in disposition and character. The consequences of this are far-reaching, and it casts a pall on much of the story.
The book is well written, but there are a significant number of editing errors, enough that it sometimes disturbs the flow of the story. In particular, the author likes to use quotation marks where they're not really necessary or appropriate. The book could use a good proofreading.
However, it's an enjoyable story, an imaginative premise, a pleasant way to pass some time. I recommend it.
November 20, 2022
Not one of her better novels
This was not one of Ms Jeffers better works. The plot felt like it was made up as she went along, the dialog was expository, and the story could benefit from tighter editing to keep what thin plot exists from wandering. It was a good premise, but poorly executed. The Phantom of Pemberley is a better read.
***Spoilers***
I do love stories that pair Colnel Fitzwilliam with Mary Bennet. Despite the age gap, Mary shows a more steadfastness of character, even if she tries to set herself apart via piousnss and a eschewsment of beauty, so it works for a down-to-earth and self-confident man to take an interest and bring out her better qualities.
There have been other variations and vagaries where Bingley and Kitty are matched together and I don't quite understand the appeal of the pairing. The age gap is considerable. Kitty lacks the quiet confidence of Jane and is too easily led, something which would not work well with Bingley's people-pleasing, flighty manner. This is especially true in this story where Kitty seems to do an abrupt 180° turn from flighty middle child being led by her precocious younger sister to mature 16yo catering to the emotional needs of a man in his mid-20s in the span of about half of a page.
The demonization of Jane is always an interesting read but in this instance she went from being Jane to being a completely different person who was suddenly outwardly emotional and even violent in very short order and in a not-very-believable way. I would have preferred to actually see more of the downward spiral of the character instead of just getting bits and pieces of other people talking about it.
This was not one of Ms Jeffers better works. The plot felt like it was made up as she went along, the dialog was expository, and the story could benefit from tighter editing to keep what thin plot exists from wandering. It was a good premise, but poorly executed. The Phantom of Pemberley is a better read.
***Spoilers***
I do love stories that pair Colnel Fitzwilliam with Mary Bennet. Despite the age gap, Mary shows a more steadfastness of character, even if she tries to set herself apart via piousnss and a eschewsment of beauty, so it works for a down-to-earth and self-confident man to take an interest and bring out her better qualities.
There have been other variations and vagaries where Bingley and Kitty are matched together and I don't quite understand the appeal of the pairing. The age gap is considerable. Kitty lacks the quiet confidence of Jane and is too easily led, something which would not work well with Bingley's people-pleasing, flighty manner. This is especially true in this story where Kitty seems to do an abrupt 180° turn from flighty middle child being led by her precocious younger sister to mature 16yo catering to the emotional needs of a man in his mid-20s in the span of about half of a page.
The demonization of Jane is always an interesting read but in this instance she went from being Jane to being a completely different person who was suddenly outwardly emotional and even violent in very short order and in a not-very-believable way. I would have preferred to actually see more of the downward spiral of the character instead of just getting bits and pieces of other people talking about it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2023
Review Elizabeth Bennett Gallant Suitor by Regina Jeffers
This book is a modern twist on ‘Pride and Prejudice’.
It is a well written tale that draws you in from the beginning and we find out more about Jane the eldest of Mrs Bennet’s children and the modern development of Elizabethan Darcy’s relationship that could never have been written in regency times. Though do not be under the impression this is a steamy tale far from it. They are strong characters and are shown in an expanded way to see all sides of their characters good and not so good but vey realistically.
I did enjoy this book and I did not feel disappointed or felt it disrespected Miss Austen’s original book in any way just a variation. I thoroughly enjoyed both for different reasons just took the families stories from a different viewpoint and expanded on it.
It grabs you from the first page to the last.
This book is a modern twist on ‘Pride and Prejudice’.
It is a well written tale that draws you in from the beginning and we find out more about Jane the eldest of Mrs Bennet’s children and the modern development of Elizabethan Darcy’s relationship that could never have been written in regency times. Though do not be under the impression this is a steamy tale far from it. They are strong characters and are shown in an expanded way to see all sides of their characters good and not so good but vey realistically.
I did enjoy this book and I did not feel disappointed or felt it disrespected Miss Austen’s original book in any way just a variation. I thoroughly enjoyed both for different reasons just took the families stories from a different viewpoint and expanded on it.
It grabs you from the first page to the last.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2022
A truly wonderful story from an excellent storyteller
I found this to be an engaging, entertaining story. Lots going on, and many new characters, and some classic characters with personality changes, but done in a way that kept my attention and interest. All our least favorite characters play minor roles. I especially appreciated the after they marry piece. I do enjoy it when authors add the cherry on top, knowing the readers of this genre like a glimpse at the future. One minor distraction for me is the idea that our friends and relatives in heaven can look down upon us. My belief is that it wouldn't be heaven. To be witness to the misery in our world doesn't align with my view of heaven. Stepping off my soapbox...
I found this to be an engaging, entertaining story. Lots going on, and many new characters, and some classic characters with personality changes, but done in a way that kept my attention and interest. All our least favorite characters play minor roles. I especially appreciated the after they marry piece. I do enjoy it when authors add the cherry on top, knowing the readers of this genre like a glimpse at the future. One minor distraction for me is the idea that our friends and relatives in heaven can look down upon us. My belief is that it wouldn't be heaven. To be witness to the misery in our world doesn't align with my view of heaven. Stepping off my soapbox...
December 7, 2022
I absolutely love Pride and Prejudice retellings and am always looking for new authors in this genre. I've recently read one of Ms Jeffers' books and loved it so was excited to read this one, and I was not disappointed. The story was clean but not absent of angst and chemistry. The story definitely has some surprising twists and turns that will keep you turning the pages and wondering what will happen next. The story takes us on a different path for each the beloved P&P characters, especially for Jane and Mrs. Bennett. The story was well-written and kept my interest the whole time. I was glad to have had the opportunity to read this and look forward to reading more by this author.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
December 23, 2022
I adore Pride and Prejudice retellings and am always looking for new authors in this genre. I recently read and enjoyed one of Ms Jeffers' books, so I was eager to read this one, and I was not disappointed. The plot was clean but not without angst and chemistry. The story is full of unexpected twists and turns that will keep you turning the pages and wondering what will happen next. The action takes us down different paths for each of the beloved P&P characters, particularly Jane and Mrs Bennett. The story was well-written and kept my attention throughout. I'm glad I got to read it, and I'm looking forward to reading more by this author
December 26, 2022
I liked it but I didn’t love it. It was well enough written but the story seemed to focus more on Jane rather than Lizzy and Darcy. It was obvious pretty quickly the lay of the land there and he just needed to get past his irritating belief that he can’t offer for her despite clearly falling for her. Jane transforms from her usual self into a horrible selfish morally loose shrew which is a shame but did make a change! Quite enjoyed the other characters and their stories, I just like the focus to be more Lizzy and Darcy than it was. The epilogue did make me cry. If you don’t mind Lizzy and Darcy not being the main focus and don’t mind a bad Jane then give it a try!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2023
Not sure I liked it
Interesting premise and considering how Mrs Bennet emphasizes looks over everything else, I can accept a shallow Jane. I think the Colonel falls pretty fast for Mary, but good for him. Glad she was more genuine and kind than proselytizing. As for Darcy, maybe he sounds gallant at times but he was stringing Elizabeth along with no intention of ever proposing. And his so-called proposal is obnoxious. Interesting that in the epilogue we are told they had a realistc life of joy and sorrow though doesn't consumption take some time? And what a horrible way for a main character to die be she a hero or not.
Interesting premise and considering how Mrs Bennet emphasizes looks over everything else, I can accept a shallow Jane. I think the Colonel falls pretty fast for Mary, but good for him. Glad she was more genuine and kind than proselytizing. As for Darcy, maybe he sounds gallant at times but he was stringing Elizabeth along with no intention of ever proposing. And his so-called proposal is obnoxious. Interesting that in the epilogue we are told they had a realistc life of joy and sorrow though doesn't consumption take some time? And what a horrible way for a main character to die be she a hero or not.
December 15, 2022
Thank you to BookBuzz.net and NetGalley for the ARC. This felt very close to the original but also different in moments. The characterization of Jane felt way off base in how she evolved but I will give Jeffers credit for how she explains the character motivation. I don't like how Jane comes across but surprisingly three of the Bennet sisters get their happy endings. There was a time in the middle discussing the intricacies of horse racing that I skimmed through but once it got back to the main characters, I enjoyed it. If you are in a P&P mood, this can be a quick fun read.
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