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Win, Lose, or Darcy
Fortunes may be won or lost, but there is only one Mr. Darcy!
Mrs. Bennet wins the lottery! When the battle ensues over how to invest their new wealth, Elizabeth Bennet sees an opportunity to reunite her heartbroken sister with Mr. Bingley in London. Once in town, Elizabeth befriends Miss Sophia Kingsley, a highly influential young lady in the beau monde, and soon finds herself in the midst of a society intolerant of her family’s improprieties.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is drawn to Elizabeth Bennet’s charming wit— despite her appalling family. But with the Season fast approaching, the competition to win Elizabeth’s affection intensifies as Mr. Gerard Gordon makes his intentions clear.
Will Mrs. Bennet´s gambling and Mr. Bennet’s indolence ruin Elizabeth´s chances of love and happiness before the London Season begins? Will Mr. Darcy overcome his pride and the manipulations of his friends in order to marry the woman of his choice?
Win, lose, or draw, our dear couple finds their happily ever after… we hope.
*This is a light-hearted, sweet romance based on Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice.
Mrs. Bennet wins the lottery! When the battle ensues over how to invest their new wealth, Elizabeth Bennet sees an opportunity to reunite her heartbroken sister with Mr. Bingley in London. Once in town, Elizabeth befriends Miss Sophia Kingsley, a highly influential young lady in the beau monde, and soon finds herself in the midst of a society intolerant of her family’s improprieties.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is drawn to Elizabeth Bennet’s charming wit— despite her appalling family. But with the Season fast approaching, the competition to win Elizabeth’s affection intensifies as Mr. Gerard Gordon makes his intentions clear.
Will Mrs. Bennet´s gambling and Mr. Bennet’s indolence ruin Elizabeth´s chances of love and happiness before the London Season begins? Will Mr. Darcy overcome his pride and the manipulations of his friends in order to marry the woman of his choice?
Win, lose, or draw, our dear couple finds their happily ever after… we hope.
*This is a light-hearted, sweet romance based on Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice.
Audiobook
First published June 22, 2016
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About the author
Jennifer Joy
47 books209 followersWhen Jennifer isn’t busy dreaming up new adventures for her favorite characters, she is reading, baking, or chasing her twins around the park.
She believes in happy endings, sweet romance, and plenty of intrigue. She writes what she most enjoys reading, so expect lighthearted stories with happy endings and a few laughs.
Born on the beautiful Oregon coast, she traveled all around the world until she finally settled in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador with her husband and two kids.
She believes in happy endings, sweet romance, and plenty of intrigue. She writes what she most enjoys reading, so expect lighthearted stories with happy endings and a few laughs.
Born on the beautiful Oregon coast, she traveled all around the world until she finally settled in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador with her husband and two kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
February 6, 2022
Oh, my goodness! Lock up the children! Mrs. Bennet and all five of her daughters are loose in London with money to burn!! At least it would seem so, the way they're spending it.
The tale begins with the Netherfield Ball and its aftermath. At the ball, Darcy becomes aware that Mr. Collins plans to propose to Elizabeth the following day and, after Darcy's disconcerting dance with her, assumes that she doesn't view him (Darcy) favorably but that she WOULD agree to marry Collins. The Bingley sisters and Darcy convince Mr. Bingley that Jane shows no true affection for him, and the group leaves Netherfield.
A day after Elizabeth has refused to marry Mr. Collins, Mr. Bennet is amazed to discover that his wife, having bought a lottery ticket, actually won. With such a substantial amount of money, Mrs. Bennet insists upon bringing all the girls to have a Season and find husbands, so leasing a London townhouse becomes a necessity in addition to buying new dresses and accessories and furnishings, etc, etc. Mr. Bennet characteristically drags his heels about taking an active part in managing his family or their finances, spending most of his time at a peaceful, book-filled gentleman's club. Kitty and especially Lydia misbehave terribly with no proper chaperone to check them, as their mother spends her time developing a full-blown gambling addiction. Mary finds great satisfaction in helping daily at a city orphanage.
As for Elizabeth and Jane, on their first trip to the modiste, they encounter the snooty Bingley sisters but also make the acquaintance of Sophia Kingsley, who is intimately connected with Mr. Darcy and Georgiana. Before long, the Bennet sisters find themselves included in invitations to many prestigious households for teas, dinners, balls and the theatre. To Elizabeth's amazement, Darcy willingly spends time with her family, even hosting them for a winter outing to London's Frost Fair when the Thames freezes over. Mr. Gerard Gordon, another close friend of Miss Kingsley, first becomes interested in Jane, then moves his attentions to Elizabeth. Jane makes the best of things, but she still suffers pangs of sadness over Mr. Bingley's sudden departure from Netherfield.
Despite the generally breezy-sounding setup, many obstacles emerge and must be overcome to get to a HEA. Because this is such a radical departure from the original story, there is no predicting what's going to happen next. It makes for a fun read with many surprises. I've read four other stories by Ms. Joy, and they've all been enjoyable, well-written 5-star books for me. This one is no different.
The tale begins with the Netherfield Ball and its aftermath. At the ball, Darcy becomes aware that Mr. Collins plans to propose to Elizabeth the following day and, after Darcy's disconcerting dance with her, assumes that she doesn't view him (Darcy) favorably but that she WOULD agree to marry Collins. The Bingley sisters and Darcy convince Mr. Bingley that Jane shows no true affection for him, and the group leaves Netherfield.
A day after Elizabeth has refused to marry Mr. Collins, Mr. Bennet is amazed to discover that his wife, having bought a lottery ticket, actually won. With such a substantial amount of money, Mrs. Bennet insists upon bringing all the girls to have a Season and find husbands, so leasing a London townhouse becomes a necessity in addition to buying new dresses and accessories and furnishings, etc, etc. Mr. Bennet characteristically drags his heels about taking an active part in managing his family or their finances, spending most of his time at a peaceful, book-filled gentleman's club. Kitty and especially Lydia misbehave terribly with no proper chaperone to check them, as their mother spends her time developing a full-blown gambling addiction. Mary finds great satisfaction in helping daily at a city orphanage.
As for Elizabeth and Jane, on their first trip to the modiste, they encounter the snooty Bingley sisters but also make the acquaintance of Sophia Kingsley, who is intimately connected with Mr. Darcy and Georgiana. Before long, the Bennet sisters find themselves included in invitations to many prestigious households for teas, dinners, balls and the theatre. To Elizabeth's amazement, Darcy willingly spends time with her family, even hosting them for a winter outing to London's Frost Fair when the Thames freezes over. Mr. Gerard Gordon, another close friend of Miss Kingsley, first becomes interested in Jane, then moves his attentions to Elizabeth. Jane makes the best of things, but she still suffers pangs of sadness over Mr. Bingley's sudden departure from Netherfield.
Despite the generally breezy-sounding setup, many obstacles emerge and must be overcome to get to a HEA. Because this is such a radical departure from the original story, there is no predicting what's going to happen next. It makes for a fun read with many surprises. I've read four other stories by Ms. Joy, and they've all been enjoyable, well-written 5-star books for me. This one is no different.
October 6, 2022
Debbie B.’s review is so complete and well written that I can add little. I enjoyed this book as I have Jennifer’s other novels and can recommend it as a dear story. It does depart from canon but in a delightful way. The reader may be able to predict the obstacles as some of our actors stay true to canon. There is some angst and sweet thoughts are being tossed about in the minds of our dear couple as they spend time together and get to know each other better. But neither can claim to have the winning suit and doubts build.
Yes, Mrs. Bennet has won £30,000 in the lottery with a little help from Charlotte. So it’s off to London to make a mark and gain husbands. Talk about money burning a hole in one’s pocket is an understatement here.
Darcy assumes Elizabeth has accepted Collins’ proposal and when that is cleared up finds he may not be the only suitor for her hand. But Darcy is in the company of several women frequently who are trying to gain his attentions. One is very slyly playing a game; one is which she holds an excellent hand.
Miss Sophia Kingsley, having been reared with Fitzwilliam and Georgiana Darcy due to her own parents’ death, quickly makes friends and introduces Jane and Elizabeth to many in the desired circles of society. This new figure runs black and white as we read more and more about her intentions and her actions with Georgiana, Darcy and Elizabeth. What are her motives? She seems to go out of her way to be a friend but then she overhears something and knows she can use it to win the game. Will she push her edge to the limit?
There are several happenings in this story that gained points with me: one is Mary’s part. The dear girl is overlooked so often. Here she ignores her own good fortune and looks to help others. (Well done.) Lydia, with a new sense of importance, seems worse than ever and her mother – well, the less said…you will learn of her soon enough. But in the end Lydia and Kitty are dealt with to everyone’s satisfaction…except Lydia’s, of course.
This is a well crafted story using many of those we so well know but introducing two significant new players. Join the game and see who wins.
Yes, Mrs. Bennet has won £30,000 in the lottery with a little help from Charlotte. So it’s off to London to make a mark and gain husbands. Talk about money burning a hole in one’s pocket is an understatement here.
Darcy assumes Elizabeth has accepted Collins’ proposal and when that is cleared up finds he may not be the only suitor for her hand. But Darcy is in the company of several women frequently who are trying to gain his attentions. One is very slyly playing a game; one is which she holds an excellent hand.
Miss Sophia Kingsley, having been reared with Fitzwilliam and Georgiana Darcy due to her own parents’ death, quickly makes friends and introduces Jane and Elizabeth to many in the desired circles of society. This new figure runs black and white as we read more and more about her intentions and her actions with Georgiana, Darcy and Elizabeth. What are her motives? She seems to go out of her way to be a friend but then she overhears something and knows she can use it to win the game. Will she push her edge to the limit?
There are several happenings in this story that gained points with me: one is Mary’s part. The dear girl is overlooked so often. Here she ignores her own good fortune and looks to help others. (Well done.) Lydia, with a new sense of importance, seems worse than ever and her mother – well, the less said…you will learn of her soon enough. But in the end Lydia and Kitty are dealt with to everyone’s satisfaction…except Lydia’s, of course.
This is a well crafted story using many of those we so well know but introducing two significant new players. Join the game and see who wins.
July 18, 2016
If I were to describe the pacing of this book the only term I could approve of is frantic. The story begins at the Netherfield ball. Where in addition to all of the Bennets behavior JA wrote about, the rumor is that Mrs. Bennet has bought the full share of a lottery ticket. Were there lotteries in Regency England? I don't know but I do know that the ticket cost £10 and Mrs. Bennet had to go through great machinations to collect (beg and borrow) the £10 and this is considered embarrassing and silly.
As per JA the Netherfield party departs, Mr. Collins' proposes and then Mrs. Bennet wins the lottery for £30,000. Which is a fortune by most standards.... and the Bennets being the Bennets have to prove that they are low class.
In 2 months they head to London where they take a town house in a fine neighborhood, proceed to fill it with expensive gee gaws, spend beyond their income on Bond street and generally behave just like they did in Meryton. Mr. Bennet hides at his club, Mrs. Bennet takes up gambling the two youngest are left to their own devices.
Add to all of this Mr. Darcy's parents' ward Sophia, a woman of Darcy's age who takes on the characterization of Miss Bingley and Lady Catherine. Mr. Gordon, a blond handsome charmer who takes a shine to Lizzy, and Mr. Darcy who tries his darnedest to behave like a human being.
As can be imagined everything goes pear shaped before the season begins. Mr. Bennet loses all their money and Mrs. Bennet puts them thousands of pounds in debt. The Bennets leave London in shame, and under the fear of debtor's prison.
But they have a few guardian angels who swoop in and pay up their debts. Jane, Lizzy & Mary get a HEA as does Charlotte Lucas. And no one learns anything...
As per JA the Netherfield party departs, Mr. Collins' proposes and then Mrs. Bennet wins the lottery for £30,000. Which is a fortune by most standards.... and the Bennets being the Bennets have to prove that they are low class.
In 2 months they head to London where they take a town house in a fine neighborhood, proceed to fill it with expensive gee gaws, spend beyond their income on Bond street and generally behave just like they did in Meryton. Mr. Bennet hides at his club, Mrs. Bennet takes up gambling the two youngest are left to their own devices.
Add to all of this Mr. Darcy's parents' ward Sophia, a woman of Darcy's age who takes on the characterization of Miss Bingley and Lady Catherine. Mr. Gordon, a blond handsome charmer who takes a shine to Lizzy, and Mr. Darcy who tries his darnedest to behave like a human being.
As can be imagined everything goes pear shaped before the season begins. Mr. Bennet loses all their money and Mrs. Bennet puts them thousands of pounds in debt. The Bennets leave London in shame, and under the fear of debtor's prison.
But they have a few guardian angels who swoop in and pay up their debts. Jane, Lizzy & Mary get a HEA as does Charlotte Lucas. And no one learns anything...
October 12, 2022
There is something about an audiobook that switches a book up a whole notch. The dramatization of a good narrator really brings a book alive.
Saw that one coming, and that and that... A very cute read and everything works out in the end...
Saw that one coming, and that and that... A very cute read and everything works out in the end...
August 31, 2016
This was such a diverting premise! Mrs. Bennet has won the lottery and launched her family into high society of London as a result. I smiled and chuckled and sighed my way through as fortune both smiles and turns it's back on the endearing cast of characters based on Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice.
The story was light and sweet, but carefully developed characters as well as relationships. I enjoyed this variation story that took the plot in a whole new and curious direction. The plot deviates after the Netherfield Ball and takes two what if questions in hand. What if the Bennets follow Darcy and the Bingleys to London after the fateful ball and what if the Bennets possess a fortune that places them in the Darcy and Bingley circles? I loved how the author rose to the challenge of answering them.
The inclusion of such historical elements as the Frost Fair, the government lotteries, gambling and debt among the upper class, society, and propriety, were all a nice extra layer of depth to make the story shine.
Original characters such as Sophia and Mr. Gordon along with the changes to Austen's original characters were well done and fit the plot and tone of the story.
All in all, this was another delightful and engaging story from this author. I'd definitely read more of her work and recommend it to other Austenesque lovers and sweet historical romance fans.
The story was light and sweet, but carefully developed characters as well as relationships. I enjoyed this variation story that took the plot in a whole new and curious direction. The plot deviates after the Netherfield Ball and takes two what if questions in hand. What if the Bennets follow Darcy and the Bingleys to London after the fateful ball and what if the Bennets possess a fortune that places them in the Darcy and Bingley circles? I loved how the author rose to the challenge of answering them.
The inclusion of such historical elements as the Frost Fair, the government lotteries, gambling and debt among the upper class, society, and propriety, were all a nice extra layer of depth to make the story shine.
Original characters such as Sophia and Mr. Gordon along with the changes to Austen's original characters were well done and fit the plot and tone of the story.
All in all, this was another delightful and engaging story from this author. I'd definitely read more of her work and recommend it to other Austenesque lovers and sweet historical romance fans.
July 11, 2022
What would happen if Mrs. Bennet won the lottery and the extra money allowed for the entire family to move to London for the season? Although I really enjoyed reading "Win, Lose or Darcy", not a lot happened, actually, to make it that different from other stories.
In other words, Lydia and Kitty did not change, Mrs. Bennet did not change, Mr. Bennet did not change, etc. The only Bennet who appeared to benefit from their time in town was Mary, who was able to find a way to put her philosophies to work. And, Charlotte Lucas was also able to benefit, in a much more realistic and responsible manner, from Mrs. Bennet's win. Jane was heartbroken and Elizabeth came to see Mr. Darcy in a better light. Mr. Darcy came to the rescue and all ended with HEA for Jane and Elizabeth.
My favorite scene was, of course, Lydia's predicament at the frost fair where Elizabeth learns that Darcy is, in fact, just a boy, according to Miss Darcy, and has a sense of humor. However, throughout the book I felt like I was reading "scenes" and not crackling dialogue or people learning from their mistakes, or people falling in love. The angst was minimal, the romance warm not hot, and the mean people did not seem to get their comeuppance.
All in all, Win, Lose or Darcy is an enjoyable read, but not my favorite of Jennifer Joy. The story is light and cheery and clean, so I can recommend it to many JAFF lovers without any hesitation.
In other words, Lydia and Kitty did not change, Mrs. Bennet did not change, Mr. Bennet did not change, etc. The only Bennet who appeared to benefit from their time in town was Mary, who was able to find a way to put her philosophies to work. And, Charlotte Lucas was also able to benefit, in a much more realistic and responsible manner, from Mrs. Bennet's win. Jane was heartbroken and Elizabeth came to see Mr. Darcy in a better light. Mr. Darcy came to the rescue and all ended with HEA for Jane and Elizabeth.
My favorite scene was, of course, Lydia's predicament at the frost fair where Elizabeth learns that Darcy is, in fact, just a boy, according to Miss Darcy, and has a sense of humor. However, throughout the book I felt like I was reading "scenes" and not crackling dialogue or people learning from their mistakes, or people falling in love. The angst was minimal, the romance warm not hot, and the mean people did not seem to get their comeuppance.
All in all, Win, Lose or Darcy is an enjoyable read, but not my favorite of Jennifer Joy. The story is light and cheery and clean, so I can recommend it to many JAFF lovers without any hesitation.
April 22, 2019
I bought this because of the title. Very fun. I liked the way the story progressed though I wondered why the author created a couple of new characters. It was enjoyable to me.
Reread: loved! Mrs B books are the most fun.
Reread: loved! Mrs B books are the most fun.
February 14, 2022
When I'm surprised to find a rehash of canon engaging in the first chapters of the book (when I usually detest rehashes of canon), I know I can expect a great deal more out of the novel, and I wasn't wrong. This amusing novel thankfully falls slightly short of farce yet light comedy is strewn throughout to make the book interesting. That doesn't mean it's short on angst, though.
I'm going to stop there--I don't do summaries as I leave that up to the other reviewers. Instead, I do a technical analysis. These details irritate the reader into dropping stars even when they liked the story.
The plot was unique and flowed well for a complete story arc with only slight allusions to side plots that worked with the main story. There were several clever twists that added to the enjoyment, some which caused a laugh and some which upped the angst. The only hole I saw was (mini spoiler alert) the quick change of interest of Mr. Gordon, which was to the protagonists' advantage, but wasn't well supported. Otherwise, the twists were interesting and exciting, and the writing on the misunderstanding was beautiful angst work.
Language had, for the most part, a very good Regency feel. The non-Regency words and phrases such as scanned, bored, hostess, outing(s), guffaw, "taken aback," blackmail, "drab gray" (drab is a yellowish-gray colour on its own), neckline, attitude, and "wedding breakfast;" Americanisms "debts called in," and "we will" for "we shall"; and incorrectly used words such as "confinement" for "pregnancy" (confinement is childbirth and the confined time that follows) can pull the reader out of the story for a moment, so the author should learn these words and avoid them in future. This is slightly more than average for a JAFF. There was a spelling error: Fordythe's Sermons.
Characterization for the canon characters was spot-on, choosing many of the leading qualities we see of those people within P&P and capitalizing on their individual characteristics to suit this story. New characters were marvellously drawn and suited the plot well. This story would not have succeeded without two of them. There were no extraneous characters just there for a name or a single line. All were useful to the plot.
Scene-setting was excellent since it supported the comedy well, showing the foibles of the characters within the descriptions of the senses.
I noted the use of some filter words, which indicate telling, not showing, where most of this book was in a showing mode.
Point of view changed by chapter and was handled like a pro.
The historical context of the (mini spoiler alert) frost fair was a clever way to start the romance, which developed at a believable pace, worked well through the issue of the (mini spoiler alert) rival, and culminated in a very honest and deep love that came off the page as true. This is one of the best romance developments I've read in a while.
I'm sorry to the author and artist, but I don't like the cover. I've never liked that sort of model, she's too close to the building, the graphic work looks fakey (pasted on), and the fonts don't work for a romance. I just can't see a cover with that sort of model standing out among the 50 other books with similar models. More imagination is needed to create a cover for a book with this much imagination inside. You want readers to pick your cover over the others because it's waaaay different.
Overall, this is an amazing novel. The light comedy that's sprinkled throughout the book is enhanced by some excellent plot twists that add serious dramatic tension, allowing the reader to feel that "I have to keep reading until this is resolved" kind of response to the angst. It's what a book should be.
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author, and some might say that this review is a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for both the reader and the author.
I'm going to stop there--I don't do summaries as I leave that up to the other reviewers. Instead, I do a technical analysis. These details irritate the reader into dropping stars even when they liked the story.
The plot was unique and flowed well for a complete story arc with only slight allusions to side plots that worked with the main story. There were several clever twists that added to the enjoyment, some which caused a laugh and some which upped the angst. The only hole I saw was (mini spoiler alert) the quick change of interest of Mr. Gordon, which was to the protagonists' advantage, but wasn't well supported. Otherwise, the twists were interesting and exciting, and the writing on the misunderstanding was beautiful angst work.
Language had, for the most part, a very good Regency feel. The non-Regency words and phrases such as scanned, bored, hostess, outing(s), guffaw, "taken aback," blackmail, "drab gray" (drab is a yellowish-gray colour on its own), neckline, attitude, and "wedding breakfast;" Americanisms "debts called in," and "we will" for "we shall"; and incorrectly used words such as "confinement" for "pregnancy" (confinement is childbirth and the confined time that follows) can pull the reader out of the story for a moment, so the author should learn these words and avoid them in future. This is slightly more than average for a JAFF. There was a spelling error: Fordythe's Sermons.
Characterization for the canon characters was spot-on, choosing many of the leading qualities we see of those people within P&P and capitalizing on their individual characteristics to suit this story. New characters were marvellously drawn and suited the plot well. This story would not have succeeded without two of them. There were no extraneous characters just there for a name or a single line. All were useful to the plot.
Scene-setting was excellent since it supported the comedy well, showing the foibles of the characters within the descriptions of the senses.
I noted the use of some filter words, which indicate telling, not showing, where most of this book was in a showing mode.
Point of view changed by chapter and was handled like a pro.
The historical context of the (mini spoiler alert) frost fair was a clever way to start the romance, which developed at a believable pace, worked well through the issue of the (mini spoiler alert) rival, and culminated in a very honest and deep love that came off the page as true. This is one of the best romance developments I've read in a while.
I'm sorry to the author and artist, but I don't like the cover. I've never liked that sort of model, she's too close to the building, the graphic work looks fakey (pasted on), and the fonts don't work for a romance. I just can't see a cover with that sort of model standing out among the 50 other books with similar models. More imagination is needed to create a cover for a book with this much imagination inside. You want readers to pick your cover over the others because it's waaaay different.
Overall, this is an amazing novel. The light comedy that's sprinkled throughout the book is enhanced by some excellent plot twists that add serious dramatic tension, allowing the reader to feel that "I have to keep reading until this is resolved" kind of response to the angst. It's what a book should be.
Disclaimer: I'm a JAFF author, and some might say that this review is a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for both the reader and the author.
August 16, 2016
Ms. Joy has done it again with a delightful twist...Mrs. Bennet has won the lottery!
Just before the Netherfield Ball, Mrs. Bennet purchases a full lottery ticket, not a portion of one, after scrimping and saving her pin money. However, she does require financial help from her daughters and one other. After loudly proclaiming her actions to all within earshot at the ball and the derision by Miss Bingley and her sister, she actually wins!
This sets in motion a a series of events that has the whole family setting up house in London! Oh the delight Mrs. Bennet has in furnishing her rented townhouse, ordering artwork along with the myriad of dresses and accoutrements that go along with them! In the meantime, Elizabeth and Jane are hoping to encounter Mr. Bingley who suddenly leaves Netherfield along with his sisters and house guest, Mr. Darcy.
Oh the turmoil Mr. Darcy is put through in this story! I wont go into details, but new characters and old, are up to mischief. Mr. Bennet is as redolent as ever and fate again plays her hand. Charlotte is a true friend to Elizabeth and I absolutely loved how Ms. Joy handled her fate!
Just before the Netherfield Ball, Mrs. Bennet purchases a full lottery ticket, not a portion of one, after scrimping and saving her pin money. However, she does require financial help from her daughters and one other. After loudly proclaiming her actions to all within earshot at the ball and the derision by Miss Bingley and her sister, she actually wins!
This sets in motion a a series of events that has the whole family setting up house in London! Oh the delight Mrs. Bennet has in furnishing her rented townhouse, ordering artwork along with the myriad of dresses and accoutrements that go along with them! In the meantime, Elizabeth and Jane are hoping to encounter Mr. Bingley who suddenly leaves Netherfield along with his sisters and house guest, Mr. Darcy.
Oh the turmoil Mr. Darcy is put through in this story! I wont go into details, but new characters and old, are up to mischief. Mr. Bennet is as redolent as ever and fate again plays her hand. Charlotte is a true friend to Elizabeth and I absolutely loved how Ms. Joy handled her fate!
January 3, 2023
3.5 stars.
I’ve just listened to several audio books by the author on YouTube. BTW, I appreciate the option to listen there. Anyway- the others were all cozy mysteries, and I liked this book much better. This story line was run well. I was delighted with the way the story resolved.
I’ve just listened to several audio books by the author on YouTube. BTW, I appreciate the option to listen there. Anyway- the others were all cozy mysteries, and I liked this book much better. This story line was run well. I was delighted with the way the story resolved.
December 12, 2016
3.5 stars rounded down to 3. I always enjoy getting to see the Bennets with improved circumstances, and each author seems to take it a slightly different direction. It was fun to see Elizabeth with her thoughts on making an advantageous marriage even as she tried to reunite Jane and Bingley, but I felt like the story was often lacking in substance. The social situations held no real challenges or ways for Elizabeth to show her wit and the bad things that happened were resolved often within the same scene. Mr. Bennet's faults (particularly in not listening to Elizabeth's warnings) were drawn out to a point that I had a hard time enjoying the drama that resulted. Sophia, likewise, was all over the place as a character, and I didn't entirely buy her actions. Darcy was almost too perfect in the way that he decisively started to change so soon after the Netherfield ball.
It was a fast read, and I did like it, but it won't go on my list of favorites.
It was a fast read, and I did like it, but it won't go on my list of favorites.
April 14, 2019
This novel was based around Mrs. Bennet's vice for gambling, winning and loosing! It proves that you can win and loose it all in the end. You can invest and get greedy and loose it also in the end as did Mr. Bennet. Humility wins in the end.
The daughters all get a taste to have it all in the beginning and then to loose it through their parents mistakes.
However, all is not lost due to love finds a way for Jane, Elizabeth and last but not least, Mary!
This was my second reading of this novel. and my first review of it!
The daughters all get a taste to have it all in the beginning and then to loose it through their parents mistakes.
However, all is not lost due to love finds a way for Jane, Elizabeth and last but not least, Mary!
This was my second reading of this novel. and my first review of it!
February 20, 2022
A delightful P&P variation...
I'm a huge fan of all things P&P, and I loved this story for so many reasons. This is the most original variation I've read that holds to canon all of the characters' personalities, spot on. From the first time I knew of this story I always believed that Mary would make the best match as a wife for Mr. Collins, with each of them continually spouting moral platitudes, and this is the first author I've seen make this connection. While Mary is the ugly duckling of the Bennett sisters, she has a role in this story that leads to her future happiness. Well done! I cheered equally for each character's situation and couldn't wait to pick up the book again and keep reading. You want to keep reading, but you don't want the story to end.
One star lost for the nearly 70 errors in shall/will and who/whom in the first 50% of the book. Additionally, there were about a dozen technical and typographical errors. I stopped proofreading in the second half of the book and just enjoyed the ride.
I'm a connoisseur of book jackets, and while the cover shown on the other site appears accurate and pleasing, the bridge in the lower third has modern day cars driving over it! Is noone paying attention to this?
I'll look for more variations by this author.
I'm a huge fan of all things P&P, and I loved this story for so many reasons. This is the most original variation I've read that holds to canon all of the characters' personalities, spot on. From the first time I knew of this story I always believed that Mary would make the best match as a wife for Mr. Collins, with each of them continually spouting moral platitudes, and this is the first author I've seen make this connection. While Mary is the ugly duckling of the Bennett sisters, she has a role in this story that leads to her future happiness. Well done! I cheered equally for each character's situation and couldn't wait to pick up the book again and keep reading. You want to keep reading, but you don't want the story to end.
One star lost for the nearly 70 errors in shall/will and who/whom in the first 50% of the book. Additionally, there were about a dozen technical and typographical errors. I stopped proofreading in the second half of the book and just enjoyed the ride.
I'm a connoisseur of book jackets, and while the cover shown on the other site appears accurate and pleasing, the bridge in the lower third has modern day cars driving over it! Is noone paying attention to this?
I'll look for more variations by this author.
February 13, 2022
DNF. I liked the idea of a lottery win but found the storyline a bit inconsistent/ holey & hard to keep interest in.
One thing that always niggles me about this author is that they seem to think the Bennets were poverty level poor as opposed to rich but without dowries (ie. a fall back if Mr B died) vs the super rich that Darcy is. The topic means it’s taken to extremes here, like Lydia has never had her own dress (the girl that buys ugly bonnets for a laugh?) and Mary walks around with holes in her clothes. It actually undermines the story. Either they’re so poor that they would use the money for necessary things, or they now have the money to waste living the high life in London - it can’t really be both.
One thing that always niggles me about this author is that they seem to think the Bennets were poverty level poor as opposed to rich but without dowries (ie. a fall back if Mr B died) vs the super rich that Darcy is. The topic means it’s taken to extremes here, like Lydia has never had her own dress (the girl that buys ugly bonnets for a laugh?) and Mary walks around with holes in her clothes. It actually undermines the story. Either they’re so poor that they would use the money for necessary things, or they now have the money to waste living the high life in London - it can’t really be both.
February 19, 2021
3.5 stars
I find reading Ms. Joy's books to be an enjoyable venture. This one had unique circumstances that I've never seen before in Regency romance reading. While I enjoyed it overall there were some things that bothered me. First and foremost was what happened to Darcy's letters to Bingley. To have more than one go astray seems unlikely without interference but we never find out why they didn't arrive. Doesn't change the story but I just wanted to know. I thought it was going to be a major plot point.
I thought it was unique that there were so many HEAs in this story. Darcy and Jane aren't the only ones that end up happy. And it was sweet to see Mr. and Mrs. Bennett come into happiness as well.
The story is somewhat simple and has no really big surprises but it was just a pleasant way to get a little bit of a Darcy fix and who doesn't want that?
Sex: no
Language: Some Deity
Violence: no
I find reading Ms. Joy's books to be an enjoyable venture. This one had unique circumstances that I've never seen before in Regency romance reading. While I enjoyed it overall there were some things that bothered me. First and foremost was what happened to Darcy's letters to Bingley. To have more than one go astray seems unlikely without interference but we never find out why they didn't arrive. Doesn't change the story but I just wanted to know. I thought it was going to be a major plot point.
I thought it was unique that there were so many HEAs in this story. Darcy and Jane aren't the only ones that end up happy. And it was sweet to see Mr. and Mrs. Bennett come into happiness as well.
The story is somewhat simple and has no really big surprises but it was just a pleasant way to get a little bit of a Darcy fix and who doesn't want that?
Sex: no
Language: Some Deity
Violence: no
December 19, 2021
3.5 Stars
Cute story with some interesting new characters. Although, you have to wait for the HEA, I like that Darcy and Elizabeth became friendly towards one another early in the book. Mr. & Mrs. Bennet was a nice surprise in the end. I have to admit that I'm curious to know how things turned out with Kitty and Lydia. Also, are the Darcys still close with Sophia?
Why not four stars? Charlotte's HEA was unrealistic (I know it's fiction.) Mary's HEA was disappointing, but at least she was happy. As for Jane and Bingley, I never can find anything romantic about a man who abandons you without a goodbye and listens to his friends advise instead of talking to you. And why would a beloved sister want you attached to someone like that? I think I was upset with Elizabeth for singing Bingley praises than Jane's feelings for the man. Of course these things are minor. It is still a nice read.
Cute story with some interesting new characters. Although, you have to wait for the HEA, I like that Darcy and Elizabeth became friendly towards one another early in the book. Mr. & Mrs. Bennet was a nice surprise in the end. I have to admit that I'm curious to know how things turned out with Kitty and Lydia. Also, are the Darcys still close with Sophia?
Why not four stars? Charlotte's HEA was unrealistic (I know it's fiction.) Mary's HEA was disappointing, but at least she was happy. As for Jane and Bingley, I never can find anything romantic about a man who abandons you without a goodbye and listens to his friends advise instead of talking to you. And why would a beloved sister want you attached to someone like that? I think I was upset with Elizabeth for singing Bingley praises than Jane's feelings for the man. Of course these things are minor. It is still a nice read.
August 24, 2019
A bit of a P&P romp
This is a very distant Pride and Prejudice variation with a few added characters. Though it strays pretty far (drastically) from cannon it is still an enjoyable read. Though the Bennett family brings chaos with them wherever they go, ultimately the relationships in this book are heartwarming and close and the characters are insightful.
Edited: well edited (read with text to speech)
Sexytimes: No, this is a sweet romance
Happy Ending: of course there is an HEA
Recommended: Yes, this is not my favorite but it is a cute, lighthearted, read with a charming conclusion.
This is a very distant Pride and Prejudice variation with a few added characters. Though it strays pretty far (drastically) from cannon it is still an enjoyable read. Though the Bennett family brings chaos with them wherever they go, ultimately the relationships in this book are heartwarming and close and the characters are insightful.
Edited: well edited (read with text to speech)
Sexytimes: No, this is a sweet romance
Happy Ending: of course there is an HEA
Recommended: Yes, this is not my favorite but it is a cute, lighthearted, read with a charming conclusion.
March 3, 2021
While I've enjoyed several of Jennifer Joy's variations, it was a struggle for me to get through this one. I would read a few chapters and put it aside for another book, finish that one and go back for another few chapters. I finished at least five other books while trying to finish this one. It may have been the tension produced by the inevitable conclusion to the family's new-found wealth, or it may have been an unlikable Elizabeth through the first third of the book.
Still, it was decently written, with few errors, and there were parts of it I enjoyed. That made it a 4, instead of 3.5 stars.
Still, it was decently written, with few errors, and there were parts of it I enjoyed. That made it a 4, instead of 3.5 stars.
December 3, 2018
Ok read
Would prefer just a little more polish, better editing. There are just a few places which I did not think jives with the times, e.g. bringing children to an assembly? Maybe, but not sure. Dances were in sets, I believe. How did Bennets have any chairs left to sit in? Could Sofia be that mean and that nice? Actually that doesn't bother me: seems very human.
Would prefer just a little more polish, better editing. There are just a few places which I did not think jives with the times, e.g. bringing children to an assembly? Maybe, but not sure. Dances were in sets, I believe. How did Bennets have any chairs left to sit in? Could Sofia be that mean and that nice? Actually that doesn't bother me: seems very human.
April 22, 2021
Entertaining premise: Mrs. Bennet wins the lottery and off the family goes to live in London. The plot is very well drawn, with lovely little moments such as Darcy taking Lizzy and sisters to the Frost Fair. My only complaints are a few lines of dialogue that sound a bit too modern for Regency characters and a resolution that comes too quickly and easily. Overall, a very good read.
September 11, 2022
In this sweet, humorous, and delightful variation of "Pride and Prejudice", we can add another fault to Mrs. Bennet's character...gambling. But it pays off when she wins with a lottery ticket! The winnings are huge, enough to move them to town! Elizabeth wastes no time in convincing their father to move them to London in order for Jane to reconnect with Mr. Bingley.
I loved the characters in this book, those original and those new. There were some fun twists to this story for a couple of our characters and I particularly loved that! This author does a beautiful job as storyteller, with the charm and grace evident throughout the pages. I have read several of her books, and now am checking them off the list at the end of the book to find the gems I have not read. Definitely moved to my one-click list of authors!
I loved the characters in this book, those original and those new. There were some fun twists to this story for a couple of our characters and I particularly loved that! This author does a beautiful job as storyteller, with the charm and grace evident throughout the pages. I have read several of her books, and now am checking them off the list at the end of the book to find the gems I have not read. Definitely moved to my one-click list of authors!
March 11, 2022
One of my favorite P&P variations
Like the author, I love happy endings. In the way couples found one another, Ms Joy may have improved on Miss Austen's novel. Warning: spoiler here - I always thought that Mary and Mr. Collins would have made an excellent couple. I am glad this author agreed. And, although she wasn't of a romantic nature, Charlotte deserved a much more sensible and appreciative husband than Collins. Plus, with this change in Charlotte's marriage, Elizabeth wound up with her closest friend as a neighbor.
Like the author, I love happy endings. In the way couples found one another, Ms Joy may have improved on Miss Austen's novel. Warning: spoiler here - I always thought that Mary and Mr. Collins would have made an excellent couple. I am glad this author agreed. And, although she wasn't of a romantic nature, Charlotte deserved a much more sensible and appreciative husband than Collins. Plus, with this change in Charlotte's marriage, Elizabeth wound up with her closest friend as a neighbor.
February 12, 2022
I really liked this version. The characters of the two main couples remains the same. However, the introduction of new characters and rearranging of some couples made it interesting. The story was still romantic and easy to read. I liked how the author dealt with Mr. Wickham's character by minimizing his part. I recommend the book.
March 12, 2022
Wonderful Twist on P&P
Great story, well written. I always wondered why Jane Austen didn’t have Collins choose Mary. I thought they’d be perfect together. I also like how, even though Mrs. Bennett can still be ridiculous, the author made her more likable - and Kitty too. Really enjoyed this P&P variation.
Great story, well written. I always wondered why Jane Austen didn’t have Collins choose Mary. I thought they’d be perfect together. I also like how, even though Mrs. Bennett can still be ridiculous, the author made her more likable - and Kitty too. Really enjoyed this P&P variation.
March 14, 2022
Can riches change your life and make you happy? Can there lose ruin everything?
Highlighting the limited opportunities open to single women, this delightful book introduces a few new characters, each with agendas of their own. I also appreciated seeing a new side of Mr. Bennet and the relationship with his wife. Enjoy!
Highlighting the limited opportunities open to single women, this delightful book introduces a few new characters, each with agendas of their own. I also appreciated seeing a new side of Mr. Bennet and the relationship with his wife. Enjoy!
April 24, 2022
Pleasant romance
This was a very pleasant read. I liked the characters, i liked their dialog, it was a clean romance, i didn't struggle to finish it, basically it was a nice, light read for the first nice day of spring. I don't think it will make my list of books to read again, but i don't regret the time i didn't reading it (which is better than the last few books I've read)!
This was a very pleasant read. I liked the characters, i liked their dialog, it was a clean romance, i didn't struggle to finish it, basically it was a nice, light read for the first nice day of spring. I don't think it will make my list of books to read again, but i don't regret the time i didn't reading it (which is better than the last few books I've read)!
October 2, 2022
I run hot and cold on fan fiction. What I liked about this effort was that it felt reasonably consistent with Austen's characters in the way she wrote them. Not all of them do. The reimaging of the Bennets suddenly acquiring some serious money was fun and everyone acted like I thought they might under those circumstances. Lots of fun if you like fan fiction.
October 11, 2022
This was a fresh take. Mrs Bennet wins the lottery and takes the girls to London where they meet Darcy again and make some new acquaintances. But Mr and Mrs. Bennet are not used to having riches so Elizabeth worries that the money might be easy come easy go.
I enjoyed Stevie Zimmerman's audio narration which the author had kindly made available on her youtube channel.
I enjoyed Stevie Zimmerman's audio narration which the author had kindly made available on her youtube channel.
December 8, 2022
well written and smoothly paced
As always with this author’s work this is a well written and edited book making for an enjoyable read.
This was not however my favourite book by this author - I didn’t take to the new character ,Sophia and at times I found the financial shenanigans a little unrealistic. A solid 3.75* overall.
As always with this author’s work this is a well written and edited book making for an enjoyable read.
This was not however my favourite book by this author - I didn’t take to the new character ,Sophia and at times I found the financial shenanigans a little unrealistic. A solid 3.75* overall.
January 23, 2024
A no-angst, enjoyable read that had me smiling. Unusually, I felt the book could do with more filler - outrageous behaviour of relatives or general details to balance out the ‘I like him/her, does she/he like me too?!’. The ending was (obviously!) predictable and happy, but a little too … saccharine? Overall, a well written and enjoyable diversion I would recommend to others.
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