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My BFF
When Control Freaks Collide... Brilliant, handsome and born into a world of class and wealth, Fitzwilliam Darcy learned early that giving your heart came with a price even he could not afford to pay. Musical prodigy Elizabeth Bennet used the ghosts of her past to scare away all chances for love in her future. Sparks fly when they meet; but will Darcy and Elizabeth crash and burn, or can they overcome their fears through an unusual relationship and find a way to happily ever after? Inspired by the characters of Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice, My BFF is a romantic comedy filled with intrigue, surprises and erotic interludes.
392 pages, Paperback
First published June 23, 2009
14 people are currently reading
464 people want to read
About the author
Ruth Phillips Oakland
2 books21 followersRuth Phillips Oakland was born and raised in Central Pennsylvania where she dreamed of far off places and romantic heros; however, it wasn't until her discovery of the wit and wisdom of Jane Austen that she was inspired to write. Ruth firmly believes that every woman has a romance novel within her, she was simply fortunate enough to put hers to keyboard and have it published. Inspired by the works of Jane Austen, she drew on her vivid imagination and love of comedic banter to create her first novel, 'My BFF'. Ms. Oakland resides in Eastern Massachusetts with her loving and supportive family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
May 11, 2018
This book was listed by Meredith on her Austenesque Reviews blog as one of her top ten favorite modern take offs of P&P. Plus as it is available from KU I had a desire to read it...It was one of two on the list that I had not read.
The book description tells us that Darcy and Elizabeth are both very controlling people. They each have something in their background which has made this necessary. Darcy disdains the word "love" as he had been betrayed with that and now any “date” has been arranged through "The Service". While Elizabeth's mother, the ultimate manipulative stage mother and one who has suffered brain damage in an accident, manages this child prodigy's life in such a manner as to be only to her own benefits...ignoring the young girl’s exhaustion and "offering" her Bethy in return for her own "arrangements".
When Georgiana is admitted to the Longbourn Institute for the Performing Arts in NYC AND at the same time Dr. Bennet applies for a grant which will allow the institute to help underprivileged children from the city’s Meryton section across the river Darcy makes plans to live in NYC and as he settles on that property to drop in early to meet this applicant for monies from his foundation. Structural damage to the ceiling allows conversation in the lounge area to filter into the lady’s office and she overhears remarks. Well, once again, Darcy has a need to apologize b/c this Elizabeth Bennet does not remain silent. The title of the chapter is “Life is better with Google” and you will find much amusement in this section.
This 400 page novel is played out in England and in the USA and the author so charmingly brings many names from canon onto the playground. I was smiling at how she used these names in her own way. Yes, it has been done before but the actors have significant parts to play, i.e., Doctor Knightley.
Some of the characters have traits with more evil and selfish traits than we are familiar with from canon: Wickham, Collins, Lady Catherine, Mrs. Bennet and then there is a drug lord from South America who will shock the **** out of you when you read of his reason for ransom demands. Richard and his twin brother, Geoff, as well as Jane and Bingley and Caroline are part of the drama.
And Elizabeth learning the art of fencing was a new interest in this book. It is not just thrown in to add to the word count but in the end sets the stage for a climax.
I loved this story. It has a lot of angst and the title is significant as both Elizabeth and Darcy fight the immediate electricity they feel upon meeting each other. But as they fight the sexual tension they also look for something more, something that will allow them to further the acquaintance as each finds someone with whom they can have an intelligent conversation, someone who looks for ways to help the needs they see in society and someone whom they can trust with secrets. A BFF is just the thing to fill that need.
You will love Mrs. Reynolds as she opens a door and says, “Allow Me”…so funny!
The book description tells us that Darcy and Elizabeth are both very controlling people. They each have something in their background which has made this necessary. Darcy disdains the word "love" as he had been betrayed with that and now any “date” has been arranged through "The Service". While Elizabeth's mother, the ultimate manipulative stage mother and one who has suffered brain damage in an accident, manages this child prodigy's life in such a manner as to be only to her own benefits...ignoring the young girl’s exhaustion and "offering" her Bethy in return for her own "arrangements".
When Georgiana is admitted to the Longbourn Institute for the Performing Arts in NYC AND at the same time Dr. Bennet applies for a grant which will allow the institute to help underprivileged children from the city’s Meryton section across the river Darcy makes plans to live in NYC and as he settles on that property to drop in early to meet this applicant for monies from his foundation. Structural damage to the ceiling allows conversation in the lounge area to filter into the lady’s office and she overhears remarks. Well, once again, Darcy has a need to apologize b/c this Elizabeth Bennet does not remain silent. The title of the chapter is “Life is better with Google” and you will find much amusement in this section.
This 400 page novel is played out in England and in the USA and the author so charmingly brings many names from canon onto the playground. I was smiling at how she used these names in her own way. Yes, it has been done before but the actors have significant parts to play, i.e., Doctor Knightley.
Some of the characters have traits with more evil and selfish traits than we are familiar with from canon: Wickham, Collins, Lady Catherine, Mrs. Bennet and then there is a drug lord from South America who will shock the **** out of you when you read of his reason for ransom demands. Richard and his twin brother, Geoff, as well as Jane and Bingley and Caroline are part of the drama.
And Elizabeth learning the art of fencing was a new interest in this book. It is not just thrown in to add to the word count but in the end sets the stage for a climax.
I loved this story. It has a lot of angst and the title is significant as both Elizabeth and Darcy fight the immediate electricity they feel upon meeting each other. But as they fight the sexual tension they also look for something more, something that will allow them to further the acquaintance as each finds someone with whom they can have an intelligent conversation, someone who looks for ways to help the needs they see in society and someone whom they can trust with secrets. A BFF is just the thing to fill that need.
You will love Mrs. Reynolds as she opens a door and says, “Allow Me”…so funny!
July 25, 2017
I won a paperback copy of this book in the raffle at the end of The Darcy Monologues blog tour. I copied and pasted the review I posted after reading it on my Kindle. It was, again, a delight to read. I especially loved reading of all the characters from Jane Austen's stories as well as John Thornton and his wife, Maggie. There are so many: Harriet Smith, John Martin, Dr. Knightley, Bertrams, Edward Farrar, Christopher Brandon, Fred Wentworth, his wife, Anne, etc.
The book description tells us that Darcy and Elizabeth are both very controlling people. They each have something in their background which has made this necessary. Darcy disdains the word "love" as he had been betrayed with that and now any “date” has been arranged through "The Service". While Elizabeth's mother, the ultimate manipulative stage mother and one who has suffered brain damage in an accident, manages this child prodigy's life in such a manner as to be only to her own benefits...ignoring the young girl’s exhaustion and "offering" her Bethy in return for her own "arrangements".
When Georgiana is admitted to the Longbourn Institute for the Performing Arts in NYC AND at the same time Dr. Bennet applies for a grant which will allow the institute to help underprivileged children from the city’s Meryton section across the river Darcy makes plans to live in NYC and as he settles on that property to drop in early to meet this applicant for monies from his foundation. Structural damage to the ceiling allows conversation in the lounge area to filter into the lady’s office and she overhears remarks. Well, once again, Darcy has a need to apologize b/c this Elizabeth Bennet does not remain silent. The title of the chapter is “Life is better with Google” and you will find much amusement in this section.
This 400 page novel is played out in England and in the USA and the author so charmingly brings many names from canon onto the playground. I was smiling at how she used these names in her own way. Yes, it has been done before but the actors have significant parts to play, i.e., Doctor Knightley.
Some of the characters have traits with more evil and selfish traits than we are familiar with from canon: Wickham, Billy Ray Collins, Lady Catherine, Mrs. Bennet and then there is a drug lord from South America who will shock the **** out of you when you read of his reason for ransom demands. Richard and his twin brother, Geoff, as well as Jane and Bingley and Caroline are part of the drama.
Elizabeth learning the art of fencing was a new interest in this book. It is not just thrown in to add to the word count but in the end sets the stage for a climax.
I loved this story. It has a lot of angst and the title is significant as both Elizabeth and Darcy fight the immediate electricity they feel upon meeting each other. But as they fight the sexual tension they also look for something more, something that will allow them to further the acquaintance as each finds someone with whom they can have an intelligent conversation, someone who looks for ways to help the needs they see in society and someone whom they can trust with secrets.
You will love Mrs. Reynolds as she opens a door and says, “Allow Me”…so funny!
The book description tells us that Darcy and Elizabeth are both very controlling people. They each have something in their background which has made this necessary. Darcy disdains the word "love" as he had been betrayed with that and now any “date” has been arranged through "The Service". While Elizabeth's mother, the ultimate manipulative stage mother and one who has suffered brain damage in an accident, manages this child prodigy's life in such a manner as to be only to her own benefits...ignoring the young girl’s exhaustion and "offering" her Bethy in return for her own "arrangements".
When Georgiana is admitted to the Longbourn Institute for the Performing Arts in NYC AND at the same time Dr. Bennet applies for a grant which will allow the institute to help underprivileged children from the city’s Meryton section across the river Darcy makes plans to live in NYC and as he settles on that property to drop in early to meet this applicant for monies from his foundation. Structural damage to the ceiling allows conversation in the lounge area to filter into the lady’s office and she overhears remarks. Well, once again, Darcy has a need to apologize b/c this Elizabeth Bennet does not remain silent. The title of the chapter is “Life is better with Google” and you will find much amusement in this section.
This 400 page novel is played out in England and in the USA and the author so charmingly brings many names from canon onto the playground. I was smiling at how she used these names in her own way. Yes, it has been done before but the actors have significant parts to play, i.e., Doctor Knightley.
Some of the characters have traits with more evil and selfish traits than we are familiar with from canon: Wickham, Billy Ray Collins, Lady Catherine, Mrs. Bennet and then there is a drug lord from South America who will shock the **** out of you when you read of his reason for ransom demands. Richard and his twin brother, Geoff, as well as Jane and Bingley and Caroline are part of the drama.
Elizabeth learning the art of fencing was a new interest in this book. It is not just thrown in to add to the word count but in the end sets the stage for a climax.
I loved this story. It has a lot of angst and the title is significant as both Elizabeth and Darcy fight the immediate electricity they feel upon meeting each other. But as they fight the sexual tension they also look for something more, something that will allow them to further the acquaintance as each finds someone with whom they can have an intelligent conversation, someone who looks for ways to help the needs they see in society and someone whom they can trust with secrets.
You will love Mrs. Reynolds as she opens a door and says, “Allow Me”…so funny!
October 18, 2024
Status: Read January 13-16, 2017
Rating: 3.5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐
Edition Read:
My BFF
by Ruth Phillips Oakland
Kindle Edition, Second Edition, 400 pages
Published July 6, 2009 by RPOakland Self Publishing (first published June 23, 2009)
ASIN: B0046ZRIMS
[ kindle unlimited ]
When Control Freaks Collide…
Brilliant, handsome and born into a world of class and wealth, Fitzwilliam Darcy learned early that giving your heart came with a price even he could not afford to pay. Musical prodigy Elizabeth Bennet used the ghosts of her past to scare away all chances for love in her future. Sparks fly when they meet; but will Darcy and Elizabeth crash and burn, or can they overcome their fears through an unusual relationship and find a way to happily ever after?
Inspired by the characters of Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice, My BFF is a romantic comedy filled with intrigue, surprises and erotic interludes.
Rating: 3.5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐
Edition Read:
My BFF
by Ruth Phillips Oakland
Kindle Edition, Second Edition, 400 pages
Published July 6, 2009 by RPOakland Self Publishing (first published June 23, 2009)
ASIN: B0046ZRIMS
[ kindle unlimited ]
When Control Freaks Collide…
Brilliant, handsome and born into a world of class and wealth, Fitzwilliam Darcy learned early that giving your heart came with a price even he could not afford to pay. Musical prodigy Elizabeth Bennet used the ghosts of her past to scare away all chances for love in her future. Sparks fly when they meet; but will Darcy and Elizabeth crash and burn, or can they overcome their fears through an unusual relationship and find a way to happily ever after?
Inspired by the characters of Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice, My BFF is a romantic comedy filled with intrigue, surprises and erotic interludes.
January 17, 2022
Good Modern Storyline
Reviewed in Canada on June 16, 2019
Really enjoyed this modern variation with all the usual P&P characters. The Fitzwilliams were well portrayed and ODC were pretty great. The story was well told. If you like modern variations, I recommend this one. Mature content.
First read via Kindle Unlimited
Purchased January 14, 2022 for a second read.
January 17, 2022 - Second read
This story is really a five-star modern. The friendship/love story and plots surrounding it make it a definite page-turning experience. I loved this Darcy and Elizabeth, and those villains are evil! Mrs. Bennet is definitely “Mommy Dearest. The supporting Fitzwilliam family cast, and Georgiana, are well portrayed. The mature scenes are also well written.
Again, it’s five-star worthy but it’s difficult for me to award a top rating with so many proofreading errors. I really wish this author would write more variations.
Reviewed in Canada on June 16, 2019
Really enjoyed this modern variation with all the usual P&P characters. The Fitzwilliams were well portrayed and ODC were pretty great. The story was well told. If you like modern variations, I recommend this one. Mature content.
First read via Kindle Unlimited
Purchased January 14, 2022 for a second read.
January 17, 2022 - Second read
This story is really a five-star modern. The friendship/love story and plots surrounding it make it a definite page-turning experience. I loved this Darcy and Elizabeth, and those villains are evil! Mrs. Bennet is definitely “Mommy Dearest. The supporting Fitzwilliam family cast, and Georgiana, are well portrayed. The mature scenes are also well written.
Again, it’s five-star worthy but it’s difficult for me to award a top rating with so many proofreading errors. I really wish this author would write more variations.
November 27, 2009
In this updated version of “Pride and Prejudice” Fitzwilliam Darcy is the billionaire CEO of The Darcy Company, who many years ago made the mistake of giving his heart to the wrong person. Now seven years later, his mistake still haunts him and he lives his life unattached, taking part in meaningless sex with models (only to satisfy his baser needs), and vowing to never love again. His younger sister, Georgiana, is soon to be attending the prestigious Longbourn School for the Arts in New York City. Darcy and his cousin, Geoffrey Fitzwilliam, travel to the university, not only to help Georgiana settle in there, but to meet with a Professor Bennet and discuss the possibility of collaborating on a project that will expand music education opportunities for underprivileged children. When he meets Professor Elizabeth Bennet, Darcy finds he is immediately attracted to her, but unfortunately in typical Darcy fashion he has already insulted her.
Professor Elizabeth Bennet, was a child prodigy in the field of music and now has achieved outstanding accomplishments in several academic areas. Being a gifted and talented child has prevented her from having a normal childhood, and because she has been too busy with a performing career she does not have a lot of experience in the relationship department. Even though Elizabeth feels an intense attraction for Fitzwilliam Darcy, she's seen his picture in the tabloids with his arms draped around scantily-clad models to know that he is not the type of person she has been saving herself for.
Darcy and Elizabeth acknowledge their passionate attraction for each other but because of their past experiences and lack of trust for others, they decide that the best thing for them to do is to be friends with each other, nothing more... (This reminds me of the movie “When Harry Met Sally,” Billy Crystal's character believes that men and women can't ever be friends “because the sex part always gets in the way”). Despite Billy Crystal's sage advice, Elizabeth and Darcy become the closest and most connected of friends. They are closer to each other than they are to their friends and family, the tabloids think they are engaged, and their friends are bewildered by their resistance of a more romantic relationship. How long will it be before one of them breaks down the walls around their heart and let the other in???
I was “excessively diverted” with this “Pride and Prejudice” adaption and read it with a perpetual smile upon my face. Ruth Phillips Oakland's tale of Elizabeth and Darcy finding friendship and fighting falling in love was filled with clever and entertaining twist. I laughed out-loud at the witty dialogue, ironic situations, and her use of tabloids' headlines at the beginning of each chapter. The supporting characters in this novel were delightfully and amusingly portrayed, I enjoyed seeing Charlotte Lucas as a clothing designer and characters like Lydia Bennet, Caroline Bingley, and Lady Catherine were very true to their personalities. In this novel, Ms. Oakland incorporated the names of characters from other Jane Austen works, such as: Mr. Harville was the name of one of Darcy's bodyguard, Dr. George Knightley was the name of one of Darcy's friends, and Lucy Steele was the name of a porn star mentioned. However, I would have loved this aspect of the book more if the author used more than just the characters' name, and made these characters more distinguished and developed.
My one small quibble, and the reason I am giving this book 4.5 stars and not 5, is the depiction of a morally bankrupt Mrs. Bennet. In this adaption, Frannie Bennet was Elizabeth's overtaxing and greedy stage manger, but because of a car accident a few years ago, she has lost the ability to tell right from wrong. Now she behaves immorally, unscrupulously, and wantonly; Elizabeth has not seen or spoken with her mother in over six years. I enjoyed the part with Mrs. Bennet being a pushy parent (that is very real in today's society), but sometimes she was a little too vulgar and obscene for my tastes.
I recommend “My BFF” to anyone who enjoys reading modern adaptions of “Pride and Prejudice,” and doesn't mind alterations in the plots and characters of Jane Austen's “Pride and Prejudice.” In addition, I would recommend this book for mature audiences only and for readers who don't mind reading a few love scenes. I greatly enjoyed this fun and new spin on “Pride and Prejudice” and I savored each minute I spent reading it.
Professor Elizabeth Bennet, was a child prodigy in the field of music and now has achieved outstanding accomplishments in several academic areas. Being a gifted and talented child has prevented her from having a normal childhood, and because she has been too busy with a performing career she does not have a lot of experience in the relationship department. Even though Elizabeth feels an intense attraction for Fitzwilliam Darcy, she's seen his picture in the tabloids with his arms draped around scantily-clad models to know that he is not the type of person she has been saving herself for.
Darcy and Elizabeth acknowledge their passionate attraction for each other but because of their past experiences and lack of trust for others, they decide that the best thing for them to do is to be friends with each other, nothing more... (This reminds me of the movie “When Harry Met Sally,” Billy Crystal's character believes that men and women can't ever be friends “because the sex part always gets in the way”). Despite Billy Crystal's sage advice, Elizabeth and Darcy become the closest and most connected of friends. They are closer to each other than they are to their friends and family, the tabloids think they are engaged, and their friends are bewildered by their resistance of a more romantic relationship. How long will it be before one of them breaks down the walls around their heart and let the other in???
I was “excessively diverted” with this “Pride and Prejudice” adaption and read it with a perpetual smile upon my face. Ruth Phillips Oakland's tale of Elizabeth and Darcy finding friendship and fighting falling in love was filled with clever and entertaining twist. I laughed out-loud at the witty dialogue, ironic situations, and her use of tabloids' headlines at the beginning of each chapter. The supporting characters in this novel were delightfully and amusingly portrayed, I enjoyed seeing Charlotte Lucas as a clothing designer and characters like Lydia Bennet, Caroline Bingley, and Lady Catherine were very true to their personalities. In this novel, Ms. Oakland incorporated the names of characters from other Jane Austen works, such as: Mr. Harville was the name of one of Darcy's bodyguard, Dr. George Knightley was the name of one of Darcy's friends, and Lucy Steele was the name of a porn star mentioned. However, I would have loved this aspect of the book more if the author used more than just the characters' name, and made these characters more distinguished and developed.
My one small quibble, and the reason I am giving this book 4.5 stars and not 5, is the depiction of a morally bankrupt Mrs. Bennet. In this adaption, Frannie Bennet was Elizabeth's overtaxing and greedy stage manger, but because of a car accident a few years ago, she has lost the ability to tell right from wrong. Now she behaves immorally, unscrupulously, and wantonly; Elizabeth has not seen or spoken with her mother in over six years. I enjoyed the part with Mrs. Bennet being a pushy parent (that is very real in today's society), but sometimes she was a little too vulgar and obscene for my tastes.
I recommend “My BFF” to anyone who enjoys reading modern adaptions of “Pride and Prejudice,” and doesn't mind alterations in the plots and characters of Jane Austen's “Pride and Prejudice.” In addition, I would recommend this book for mature audiences only and for readers who don't mind reading a few love scenes. I greatly enjoyed this fun and new spin on “Pride and Prejudice” and I savored each minute I spent reading it.
April 6, 2015
I liked this book a lot. I will read it again. The thing that bothers me about modern takes on P & P is that Elizabeth is usually a genius, child prodigy, has a PhD, etc. I think we lose the simple country lass that captured Mr Darcy's heart with her impertinence with the modern portrayals. I still liked this book but someone please take pity on me and write a modern variation with a less gifted and more just-special-because-she-is-not-kissing-up-to-Darcy Elizabeth.
May 11, 2018
5/11/18: I read this for the third time as I had received an autographed paperback copy as part of The Darcy Monologues blog tour raffle prize. I loved it just as much this last time. Again also enjoying all the names from other JA novels as well as John and Maggie Thornton, from N&S. This book is MA rated.
This book was listed by Meredith on her Austenesque Reviews blog as one of her top ten favorite modern take offs of P&P. Plus as it is available from KU I had a desire to read it...It was one of two on the list that I had not read.
The book description tells us that Darcy and Elizabeth are both very controlling people. They each have something in their background which has made this necessary. Darcy disdains the word "love" as he had been betrayed with that and now any “date” has been arranged through "The Service". While Elizabeth's mother, the ultimate manipulative stage mother and one who has suffered brain damage in an accident, manages this child prodigy's life in such a manner as to be only to her own benefits...ignoring the young girl’s exhaustion and "offering" her Bethy in return for her own "arrangements".
When Georgiana is admitted to the Longbourn Institute for the Performing Arts in NYC AND at the same time Dr. Bennet applies for a grant which will allow the institute to help underprivileged children from the city’s Meryton section across the river Darcy makes plans to live in NYC and as he settles on that property to drop in early to meet this applicant for monies from his foundation. Structural damage to the ceiling allows conversation in the lounge area to filter into the lady’s office and she overhears remarks. Well, once again, Darcy has a need to apologize b/c this Elizabeth Bennet does not remain silent. The title of the chapter is “Life is better with Google” and you will find much amusement in this section.
This 400 page novel is played out in England and in the USA and the author so charmingly brings many names from canon onto the playground. I was smiling at how she used these names in her own way. Yes, it has been done before but the actors have significant parts to play, i.e., Doctor Knightley.
Some of the characters have traits with more evil and selfish traits than we are familiar with from canon: Wickham, Collins, Lady Catherine, Mrs. Bennet and then there is a drug lord from South America who will shock the **** out of you when you read of his reason for ransom demands. Richard and his twin brother, Geoff, as well as Jane and Bingley and Caroline are part of the drama.
And Elizabeth learning the art of fencing was a new interest in this book. It is not just thrown in to add to the word count but in the end sets the stage for a climax.
I loved this story. It has a lot of angst and the title is significant as both Elizabeth and Darcy fight the immediate electricity they feel upon meeting each other. But as they fight the sexual tension they also look for something more, something that will allow them to further the acquaintance as each finds someone with whom they can have an intelligent conversation, someone who looks for ways to help the needs they see in society and someone whom they can trust with secrets. A BFF is just the thing to fill that need.
You will love Mrs. Reynolds as she opens a door and says, “Allow Me”…so funny!
This book was listed by Meredith on her Austenesque Reviews blog as one of her top ten favorite modern take offs of P&P. Plus as it is available from KU I had a desire to read it...It was one of two on the list that I had not read.
The book description tells us that Darcy and Elizabeth are both very controlling people. They each have something in their background which has made this necessary. Darcy disdains the word "love" as he had been betrayed with that and now any “date” has been arranged through "The Service". While Elizabeth's mother, the ultimate manipulative stage mother and one who has suffered brain damage in an accident, manages this child prodigy's life in such a manner as to be only to her own benefits...ignoring the young girl’s exhaustion and "offering" her Bethy in return for her own "arrangements".
When Georgiana is admitted to the Longbourn Institute for the Performing Arts in NYC AND at the same time Dr. Bennet applies for a grant which will allow the institute to help underprivileged children from the city’s Meryton section across the river Darcy makes plans to live in NYC and as he settles on that property to drop in early to meet this applicant for monies from his foundation. Structural damage to the ceiling allows conversation in the lounge area to filter into the lady’s office and she overhears remarks. Well, once again, Darcy has a need to apologize b/c this Elizabeth Bennet does not remain silent. The title of the chapter is “Life is better with Google” and you will find much amusement in this section.
This 400 page novel is played out in England and in the USA and the author so charmingly brings many names from canon onto the playground. I was smiling at how she used these names in her own way. Yes, it has been done before but the actors have significant parts to play, i.e., Doctor Knightley.
Some of the characters have traits with more evil and selfish traits than we are familiar with from canon: Wickham, Collins, Lady Catherine, Mrs. Bennet and then there is a drug lord from South America who will shock the **** out of you when you read of his reason for ransom demands. Richard and his twin brother, Geoff, as well as Jane and Bingley and Caroline are part of the drama.
And Elizabeth learning the art of fencing was a new interest in this book. It is not just thrown in to add to the word count but in the end sets the stage for a climax.
I loved this story. It has a lot of angst and the title is significant as both Elizabeth and Darcy fight the immediate electricity they feel upon meeting each other. But as they fight the sexual tension they also look for something more, something that will allow them to further the acquaintance as each finds someone with whom they can have an intelligent conversation, someone who looks for ways to help the needs they see in society and someone whom they can trust with secrets. A BFF is just the thing to fill that need.
You will love Mrs. Reynolds as she opens a door and says, “Allow Me”…so funny!
October 21, 2023
What do you do when your TBR pile is insanely long yet you still have a book hangover from your last really good JAFF read? (Thanks Jessie Lewis). In this case you read an old JAFF favorite again.
There is so much about this modern P&P that I love. No Lydia/Wickham scandal but we still get tricky Wicky. Darcy insults her in a completely opposite way (the opposite of tolerable.) Yes, I even love that we have a Super Lizzy situation - she’s a genius who can sing, dance, holds a blackbelt in karate, is learning to fence, and has several advances degrees. As a child her crazy Mama turned her into a virtuoso child prodigy pianist who had her face on lunchboxes. (Yes, I love how crazy Mrs B is too). I love that ODC become friends first, that Jane & Charles get their shit together early. Oh and that Charlotte has a better ending.
What I don’t love - that the story really didn’t need: the family bets. It’s one thing to bet on small thing but to bet one when someone is going to kiss/have sex is just weird to me. I also didn’t like Geoff & Richard’s reaction to learning E was was still a virgin - gross.
Now what to read?
There is so much about this modern P&P that I love. No Lydia/Wickham scandal but we still get tricky Wicky. Darcy insults her in a completely opposite way (the opposite of tolerable.) Yes, I even love that we have a Super Lizzy situation - she’s a genius who can sing, dance, holds a blackbelt in karate, is learning to fence, and has several advances degrees. As a child her crazy Mama turned her into a virtuoso child prodigy pianist who had her face on lunchboxes. (Yes, I love how crazy Mrs B is too). I love that ODC become friends first, that Jane & Charles get their shit together early. Oh and that Charlotte has a better ending.
What I don’t love - that the story really didn’t need: the family bets. It’s one thing to bet on small thing but to bet one when someone is going to kiss/have sex is just weird to me. I also didn’t like Geoff & Richard’s reaction to learning E was was still a virgin - gross.
Now what to read?
March 18, 2012
First and foremeost, My BFF is a romantic comedy. Although many of the characters are Jane Austen inspired -- never before have you seen them like this. Yes, Darcy is handsome, rich and intelligient. And Elizabeth Bennet is beautiful, talented and witty. But the story author Ruth Phillips Oakland tells is far from typical. This modern day tale is filled with mystery, laughs and even a few delicious love scenes.
Following the typical Pride & Prejudice formula, Darcy and Elizabeth's first meeting is far from stellar, where of course, Darcy has unwittingly insulted Elizabeth. Thankfully, these two mature adults are able to work through any misunderstandings within the first 100 pages and resolve to become the best of friends. Unfortunately ghosts of their past resurface, sending the story on a page-turning, wild adventure... And rather than spoil it for you... let's just say, ends in true Austen fashion.
Nearly 400 pages of satisfying reading! If you delight in Darcy & Elizabeth in different scenarios, My BFF, should not be missed!
Following the typical Pride & Prejudice formula, Darcy and Elizabeth's first meeting is far from stellar, where of course, Darcy has unwittingly insulted Elizabeth. Thankfully, these two mature adults are able to work through any misunderstandings within the first 100 pages and resolve to become the best of friends. Unfortunately ghosts of their past resurface, sending the story on a page-turning, wild adventure... And rather than spoil it for you... let's just say, ends in true Austen fashion.
Nearly 400 pages of satisfying reading! If you delight in Darcy & Elizabeth in different scenarios, My BFF, should not be missed!
May 10, 2017
I loved this modern tale. Here we have our heroines who are admittedly attracted to each other yet are trying not to act on their feelings. Then, we get to experience them being friends. I loved this part of the story. It was wonderful watching them open up to each other. I don't want to say too much and give anything away but their friendship was beautiful. Mixed into the story of Darcy and Lizzy is a tale of a horrendous mother who takes "momager" to a whole other horrid level. Also, we have several evil Wickhams as well as others that I don't want to mention for giving away any plot. I will admit that some of the plot seems a bit out of story but, common, Darcy is a Billionaire so surely some mischief will occur. I enjoyed the ending and glimpse into their beautiful life. I also thought the part about them negotiating their marriage was well done and honest.
Please read this book if you love romance and Darcy and Elizabeth. i promise you will not be disappointed.
Please read this book if you love romance and Darcy and Elizabeth. i promise you will not be disappointed.
August 28, 2019
Entertaining plot (unrealistic, but funny), longer than necessary.
December 20, 2016
I don't read much Austen fan fiction (or any fan fiction), but I've picked this one because I needed chewing gum for the brain and I was curious how it would read in comparison to "Eligible" (i.e. the hottest Austen fan fiction of the season). Well, it is chewing gum for the brain, sappy at times, frequently over the top (...why there is a Colombian drug lord in this story? whyyy? and how many PhDs does Elisabeth Bennet need?) and a bit ridiculous, and within first 20 pages I've accused the author of not getting these characters, but in the end I've enjoyed it far more than "Eligible." While it's firmly in romance genre and not as ambitious as "Eligible," it's fun to read and you end up liking the characters really fast, and the author actually makes Lizzy and Darcy work for it, so the super sweet happy ending (however wish–fulfilling) feels well deserved. Meanwhile in "Eligible" everyone was horrible (really horrible, like wtf, who are these people) and the author for the most part skilfully omitted the bits to which Darcy later refers "most fun in his life" (meaning both sex and talking), so the reader (who hates everyone in this book anyway, maybe apart from Lydia and her BF) ends up really indifferent to L&D's love (?) story.
If you like romance genre, read "My BFF", if you don't - you may skip it.
If you like romance genre, read "My BFF", if you don't - you may skip it.
April 14, 2015
This was an interesting take on P&P. I wasn't a huge fan at the beginning of the book. I do not like it when books make Darcy into a complete horn-dog. Darcy is a gentlemen! At least I think he still would be today. But the book picked up for me, and he seems to become more respectable. Their friendship is really cute, and by the time they do get together, I am excited for them.
June 19, 2020
Modern variation of Pride and Prejudice
Unputdownable!
A slow-burning page-turner with an immediate sexual attraction, proof that opposites that don't even like each other can attract...
Elizabeth and Darcy were both geniuses and both had suffered traumatic events but had used very different strategies to cope...
What started out as pure physical attraction evolved into a beautiful friendship, I loved the way their relationship developed as their defences broke.
The turn into romance came with a dramatic event. In fact, there were several dramatic twists and turns which is why I hesitate to call this a rom-com despite the hilariously funny moments.
All in all, a well-balanced book that has everything one could desire from fun and thrill to sizzling romantic interludes.
Heartily recommend this book!
Rated: Mature
Unputdownable!
A slow-burning page-turner with an immediate sexual attraction, proof that opposites that don't even like each other can attract...
Elizabeth and Darcy were both geniuses and both had suffered traumatic events but had used very different strategies to cope...
What started out as pure physical attraction evolved into a beautiful friendship, I loved the way their relationship developed as their defences broke.
The turn into romance came with a dramatic event. In fact, there were several dramatic twists and turns which is why I hesitate to call this a rom-com despite the hilariously funny moments.
All in all, a well-balanced book that has everything one could desire from fun and thrill to sizzling romantic interludes.
Heartily recommend this book!
Rated: Mature
December 22, 2019
DNF @ 14%
Immediately turned off by creepy perv Darcy who comments that Lizzy can’t be an “innocent” because she has big boobs. Because apparently you can choose your body shape now and do so in order to let men feel free to be disgusting. I know someone who was sexually assaulted and the defence was that someone with a large bust was clearly “asking for it”. The author did have them told off by G but I don’t see how someone who would think like that could ever be a romantic hero. Completely OOC for the moral Darcy. That’s a Wickham behaviour. And if it wasn’t bad enough we then are told that Lizzy was sexually assaulted age 16. THEN she is drawn to Darcy despite his comments AND even questions herself about maybe judging him too much. Horrible message.
Immediately turned off by creepy perv Darcy who comments that Lizzy can’t be an “innocent” because she has big boobs. Because apparently you can choose your body shape now and do so in order to let men feel free to be disgusting. I know someone who was sexually assaulted and the defence was that someone with a large bust was clearly “asking for it”. The author did have them told off by G but I don’t see how someone who would think like that could ever be a romantic hero. Completely OOC for the moral Darcy. That’s a Wickham behaviour. And if it wasn’t bad enough we then are told that Lizzy was sexually assaulted age 16. THEN she is drawn to Darcy despite his comments AND even questions herself about maybe judging him too much. Horrible message.
December 22, 2016
I love Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice and have read it many, many times. My BFF is one of the best remakes that I have read of Pride and Prejudice. A modern take on a classic novel. It was very well written and found that I had a hard time putting the book down. I enjoyed the author's take on the character's personality and will make you look at them in a new light. If I had to say one bad thing about the novel would be that I don't normally like the love at first sight kinda of books, and yet the spin of them becoming friends made it enjoyable.
January 31, 2010
Ha...I started out giving it 3 stars, and then I really thought about it and had to change my mind. ;-)
I'm so glad to finally see some modern P&P fanfics hit the shelves...there is such a range of possibilities with the story! And this is definitely a good one. The author does a great job of building up the tension between Lizzy and Darcy. I really hope to see more of Ms. Oakland's work in the future.
I'm so glad to finally see some modern P&P fanfics hit the shelves...there is such a range of possibilities with the story! And this is definitely a good one. The author does a great job of building up the tension between Lizzy and Darcy. I really hope to see more of Ms. Oakland's work in the future.
June 11, 2014
Perfectly well ritten. Enjoied myself all throghout the book. Liked how the new characters from other j.austen books were brought in.
One of the best modern versions of this great classic.
Perfect in every way.
One of the best modern versions of this great classic.
Perfect in every way.
April 25, 2012
A fun interesting read. I enjoy these different takes of a modern day Darcy and Liza.
August 1, 2012
One of the few modern variations I've liked so far, mostly due to witty dialogue. The husband/boyfriend nickname conversations are priceless.
January 5, 2022
3 1/2 Stars - I really liked this modern adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. I felt like the characters were consistent with the original story, even with differences in plots. This story posits what could have happened if P&P were a friends to lovers story instead of an enemies to lovers story.
Elizabeth had been a child prodigy in music before stopping touring to get a number of university degrees. She now lives out of the spotlight as a professor at the Longborn School of the Arts in New York City. Fitzwilliam Darcy is the CEO of The Darcy Company out of England. Georgiana is ready to start music studies at the Longborn School of the Arts in New York City, where Darcy will also be relocating to support her. Darcy is investigating a charity partnership with Dr. Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn to bring music to underprivileged children in the NYC area. He's hoping to use this to model a program back in the U.K.
Darcy demands an earlier meeting with Dr. Bennet than they had originally scheduled. He doesn't realize that she is a professor since she is dressed casually and she overhears him insulting her. As they work together, they pretty quickly realize their attraction to each other. Since they know they are likely to be working closely on the charity project, they decide to try to just be friends. They bond over both being similarly intelligent and precocious. They both went to college early, which was hard socially for them. This and other painful incidents leave both of them hesitant to get into romantic relationships.
Early in Elizabeth's life, Mrs. Bennet was in a car accident and had a head injury that knocked her from being annoying but harmless to loosing her morale compass. When Elizabeth shows promise as a young pianist, Mrs. Bennet pushes her to tour at an exhausting pace and puts her into precarious situations. Mr. Bennet was too in love with Mrs. Bennet to see that she was pushing Elizabeth so hard, and it's not until she gets to a breaking point that he realizes his error in not being as involved as he should have in her life.
There are enough people set up as villains in this story, that it's hard to know which one is going to end up being the main antagonist.
Things that Worked:
- It's nice to see a friendship develop between Elizabeth and Darcy that lets us see all the things they have in common earlier in the story.
- The Darcy Diamonds was great for showing off the extreme wealth of the Darcy Family.
- Elizabeth had a nice squad of girlfriends including Charlotte and Maria Lucas along with Jane and Lydia.
Things that Didn't Work:
- This story really got crazy at points in times, and some of those tangents didn't really feel like they augmented the story much, like the South American drug lord.
- There are a number of references to characters from other of Jane Austen's stories. This didn't really add to the story for me, though I guess it also didn't annoy as much as it has in other variations.
Elizabeth had been a child prodigy in music before stopping touring to get a number of university degrees. She now lives out of the spotlight as a professor at the Longborn School of the Arts in New York City. Fitzwilliam Darcy is the CEO of The Darcy Company out of England. Georgiana is ready to start music studies at the Longborn School of the Arts in New York City, where Darcy will also be relocating to support her. Darcy is investigating a charity partnership with Dr. Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn to bring music to underprivileged children in the NYC area. He's hoping to use this to model a program back in the U.K.
Darcy demands an earlier meeting with Dr. Bennet than they had originally scheduled. He doesn't realize that she is a professor since she is dressed casually and she overhears him insulting her. As they work together, they pretty quickly realize their attraction to each other. Since they know they are likely to be working closely on the charity project, they decide to try to just be friends. They bond over both being similarly intelligent and precocious. They both went to college early, which was hard socially for them. This and other painful incidents leave both of them hesitant to get into romantic relationships.
Early in Elizabeth's life, Mrs. Bennet was in a car accident and had a head injury that knocked her from being annoying but harmless to loosing her morale compass. When Elizabeth shows promise as a young pianist, Mrs. Bennet pushes her to tour at an exhausting pace and puts her into precarious situations. Mr. Bennet was too in love with Mrs. Bennet to see that she was pushing Elizabeth so hard, and it's not until she gets to a breaking point that he realizes his error in not being as involved as he should have in her life.
There are enough people set up as villains in this story, that it's hard to know which one is going to end up being the main antagonist.
Things that Worked:
- It's nice to see a friendship develop between Elizabeth and Darcy that lets us see all the things they have in common earlier in the story.
- The Darcy Diamonds was great for showing off the extreme wealth of the Darcy Family.
- Elizabeth had a nice squad of girlfriends including Charlotte and Maria Lucas along with Jane and Lydia.
Things that Didn't Work:
- This story really got crazy at points in times, and some of those tangents didn't really feel like they augmented the story much, like the South American drug lord.
- There are a number of references to characters from other of Jane Austen's stories. This didn't really add to the story for me, though I guess it also didn't annoy as much as it has in other variations.
July 28, 2025
DNF - read chapters 1 to 6
I was looking for a modern day P&P variation and this title was recommended.
Darcy is a pervy creep who is obsessed with Elizabeth's body. If he's not fantasizing about getting her naked, then he's making inappropriate comments about her body and/or putting his hands/lips on her body without consent.
I don't understand how Elizabeth could be attracted to this pervert. This Darcy is completely OOC.
Many serious and sensitive topics are part of the story, including sexual assault, physical abuse, psychological abuse, and mental health issues. That's why I'm so confused that the author would choose to make the 2 main male characters - Darcy & Geoff - so sexually aggressive towards Elizabeth. Upon first seeing her, they both make comments about her body out loud in public. They assume that Elizabeth is a poor college student, which makes them older and richer and more powerful than her. And later, when Elizabeth is visiting the Darcy family home in a professional capacity, Geoff persists in his aggressive questioning of her personal life.
Elizabeth is treated like a sex object. The men easily forget that she is a well educated college administrator, student advisor and professional musician.
The 5 star reviews state that Darcy's behavior improved as the story progresses...
I do not recommend.
I was looking for a modern day P&P variation and this title was recommended.
Darcy is a pervy creep who is obsessed with Elizabeth's body. If he's not fantasizing about getting her naked, then he's making inappropriate comments about her body and/or putting his hands/lips on her body without consent.
I don't understand how Elizabeth could be attracted to this pervert. This Darcy is completely OOC.
Many serious and sensitive topics are part of the story, including sexual assault, physical abuse, psychological abuse, and mental health issues. That's why I'm so confused that the author would choose to make the 2 main male characters - Darcy & Geoff - so sexually aggressive towards Elizabeth. Upon first seeing her, they both make comments about her body out loud in public. They assume that Elizabeth is a poor college student, which makes them older and richer and more powerful than her. And later, when Elizabeth is visiting the Darcy family home in a professional capacity, Geoff persists in his aggressive questioning of her personal life.
Elizabeth is treated like a sex object. The men easily forget that she is a well educated college administrator, student advisor and professional musician.
The 5 star reviews state that Darcy's behavior improved as the story progresses...
I do not recommend.
July 3, 2018
This is a cute original modern Darcy and Lizzy. The pair have their love hate relationship in the beginning. Darcy is a billionaire who has been played the fool once as a young man and refuses to be so vulnerable again. Elizabeth is a teacher of music. When Darcy brings Georgiana to meet Dr. Bennet and make a sizable donation that there is more to Lizzy then a pretty face. She stems from a different upbringing.
Her parents divorced and a mother that will do anything to further herself. She managed Lizzy as a child as a pianist and after years of exhaustion Lizzy is attacked who attempts to get more from her than an autograph. The master mind behind it was disturbing. This is just one of the attacks against our couple but the title says it all. The couple grow together as friends before ever moving things any further. I liked seeing them hang out and explore new things about themselves. There are all the unforgettable characters from the Austen version just used and written in a different manner. If you crave something a little different in your P&P and don't mind a contemporary book you may enjoy this. There are graphic love scenes and one early scene with Darcy and another woman. It doesn't get too far but worth mentioning. Enjoy!
Her parents divorced and a mother that will do anything to further herself. She managed Lizzy as a child as a pianist and after years of exhaustion Lizzy is attacked who attempts to get more from her than an autograph. The master mind behind it was disturbing. This is just one of the attacks against our couple but the title says it all. The couple grow together as friends before ever moving things any further. I liked seeing them hang out and explore new things about themselves. There are all the unforgettable characters from the Austen version just used and written in a different manner. If you crave something a little different in your P&P and don't mind a contemporary book you may enjoy this. There are graphic love scenes and one early scene with Darcy and another woman. It doesn't get too far but worth mentioning. Enjoy!
January 23, 2024
A well written modern variation which held my attention throughout
I very much enjoyed this modern variation which has generally realistic characters (the villains perhaps being the exception). The core cast list is small which makes for a smoother story without constant jumping to "catch up" with secondary characters who do not move the plot forward.
I find I increasingly enjoy the books in this genre which were written 10+ years ago. They are well constructed and not just churned out at high speed as has become an issue at times in this genre in the last couple of years.
The paparazzi-style news bites at the beginning of each chapter were a fun addition.
My only quibble, my perennial quibble with many modern variations, is why do non UK aware authors feel the need to make Darcy and the Fitzwilliams British? As a Brit I find the errors of understanding of modern British life so distracting and I can never understand why the characters aren't "old money" Americans instead. Lady Catherine would make an excellent president of the DAR perhaps?
Despite my quibble this is a very good book, I am sure I will read it again and I heartily recommend it. Mature content is present.
I very much enjoyed this modern variation which has generally realistic characters (the villains perhaps being the exception). The core cast list is small which makes for a smoother story without constant jumping to "catch up" with secondary characters who do not move the plot forward.
I find I increasingly enjoy the books in this genre which were written 10+ years ago. They are well constructed and not just churned out at high speed as has become an issue at times in this genre in the last couple of years.
The paparazzi-style news bites at the beginning of each chapter were a fun addition.
My only quibble, my perennial quibble with many modern variations, is why do non UK aware authors feel the need to make Darcy and the Fitzwilliams British? As a Brit I find the errors of understanding of modern British life so distracting and I can never understand why the characters aren't "old money" Americans instead. Lady Catherine would make an excellent president of the DAR perhaps?
Despite my quibble this is a very good book, I am sure I will read it again and I heartily recommend it. Mature content is present.
December 26, 2019
Not the best adaptation
Not a good adaption. This was a grad read for me.hated that All the character's from Jane austen's books where in this novel in capacities that where so not necessary.
Not a good adaption. This was a grad read for me.hated that All the character's from Jane austen's books where in this novel in capacities that where so not necessary.
July 6, 2019
Very enjoyable!
This is no your grandmother ‘s P&P.. so don’t get your knickers in a bunch. I loved this modern P&P variation, great job!🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
This is no your grandmother ‘s P&P.. so don’t get your knickers in a bunch. I loved this modern P&P variation, great job!🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
February 18, 2020
Great modern P&P
A modern twist on a old classic, Pride & Prejudice. The characters of Elizabeth & Darcy will like those in the old classic, but updated romance.
A modern twist on a old classic, Pride & Prejudice. The characters of Elizabeth & Darcy will like those in the old classic, but updated romance.
February 10, 2021
Awesome
Loved the story. It was a clear treat to read this alternative P&P!!!!! I would definitely recommend it . It was sweet!!
Loved the story. It was a clear treat to read this alternative P&P!!!!! I would definitely recommend it . It was sweet!!
May 16, 2021
This is a modern pride and prejudice variation. It is sweet and low angst.there is some drama but it makes the story interesting.
February 1, 2022
3.5. Wow, there is everything thrown into this story, a bit too much. My 4 star rating is generous.
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