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So Material a Change: A Pride & Prejudice Variation
"If the thought of us being destined for one another is what caused you to laugh, then I shall laugh with you. Ours is more a story of mutual desperation than of love."
MATRIMONY IS THE LAST THING on Elizabeth Bennet's mind when she arrives at Netherfield Park to tend to her ill sister. When proud Mr Darcy acts rashly to thwart a compromise and tells her that the entire household believes they are engaged, she dismisses him outright and refuses his offer of marriage.
BUT MORE SURPRISES AWAIT her at Longbourn. Mr Collins is ready with an offer of marriage and it is not only her mother who thinks it a fine match; Mr Bennet is willing to press the point until Elizabeth makes clear such a connexion is impossible-because she has accepted an offer of marriage from Mr Darcy.
IT IS AN INAUSPICIOUS BEGINNING, an engagement neither desires, driven to by the machinations of others. Yet what begins as a forced alliance soon changes into something quite different. Will it be enough to lead them into love?
MATRIMONY IS THE LAST THING on Elizabeth Bennet's mind when she arrives at Netherfield Park to tend to her ill sister. When proud Mr Darcy acts rashly to thwart a compromise and tells her that the entire household believes they are engaged, she dismisses him outright and refuses his offer of marriage.
BUT MORE SURPRISES AWAIT her at Longbourn. Mr Collins is ready with an offer of marriage and it is not only her mother who thinks it a fine match; Mr Bennet is willing to press the point until Elizabeth makes clear such a connexion is impossible-because she has accepted an offer of marriage from Mr Darcy.
IT IS AN INAUSPICIOUS BEGINNING, an engagement neither desires, driven to by the machinations of others. Yet what begins as a forced alliance soon changes into something quite different. Will it be enough to lead them into love?
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First published October 11, 2021
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February 2, 2025
Adapt yourself to change as the willow tree adapts itself to the weather. When the harsh winds of circumstance sweep across the landscape of your life, bow gracefully, bend gently, adapt graciously. ~ William Arthur Ward
“Elizabeth, I find myself in a position where it is necessary for us to marry.”
Oh, Fitzwilliam Darcy, you old sweet talker, you! How could any girl resist?
Elizabeth Bennet does resist and Darcy must eventually come clean about his necessity for a marriage partner he can tolerate.
The previous night, Caroline Bingley had accomplished a successful compromise; having invaded his bedchamber and encouraged an embrace from a man deep in an erotic dream of Miss Bennet. The trap was sprung, and even Charles Bingley begins to believe Darcy should marry his shrew of a sister. Darcy takes the only way out — he claims a previous engagement offer and acceptance. He convinces the Bingleys and Hursts that he is betrothed to Elizabeth Bennet. Now he must convince Elizabeth.
A further complication arises when Elizabeth and Jane return to Longbourn. Mrs. Bennet has persuaded her husband that a match between Mr. Collins and Elizabeth is necessary. Now Elizabeth is the one who must claim a previous engagement.
With a betrothal beginning like this, what could go wrong?
It would be refreshing to say that Caroline Bingley had finished with her schemes but in this case, it would be completely inaccurate. The lovely Miss Bingley is not finished yet — not by a long shot!
Darcy is reluctant to introduce his betrothed to his beloved younger sister. He does not even agree to Elizabeth’s suggestion of a correspondence between the soon-to-be sisters. Is he hiding something important?
Unlike Lady Catherine, the Matlock family supports Darcy’s engagement. Lady Matlock invites Elizabeth to reside with them for a few weeks since the younger woman has little experience of London society.
Quote from the book: “Certainly there is no shame in that,” Lady Matlock proclaimed. “Until a young lady reaches a certain age, it is best, I think, that she be sheltered from much of what goes on. Too many a young lady has her head turned by some scoundrel just because he dresses well and possesses a fine carriage.”
“Yes, but enough about Saye,” Colonel Fitzwilliam quipped from across the table.
Enter everyone’s favorite Viscount — Viscount Saye, older brother to our dear Colonel. Saye’s part in the book is expanded from the original online story and happily so. He provides welcome comic relief and also retribution, including a comeuppance for Caroline Bingley. Saye believes in punishment to fit the crime. Loved it!
Changing and actually improving are two quite different skills. ~ Dr. SunWolf
Lady Matlock does her best to mold Elizabeth into the sort of woman acceptable to the London ton. But is that what is best for Elizabeth?
Quote from the book: “I can hardly be Lizzy Bennet of Longbourne here in London, can I? I must change, materially change, into something else entirely, and I am trying to do so.”
Is a change in Elizabeth what Darcy truly wants? Is Elizabeth the only one who needs to change?
Quote from the book: “And I fell in love with Elizabeth Bennet, whose petticoats were six inches deep in mud.”
Can Lady Catherine be correct about the dangers of quitting one’s sphere?
“So Material a Change” includes changes to more than Our Dear Couple. What clue to the entail does Darcy discover in the marriage settlement? I loved the ending to the Collins’ storyline.
Jane Bennet must also make a material change. What does she feel after Bingley’s departure? What desperate measure will she take?
Quote from the book: It had always been Lizzy they fretted over, fearing she would never attract a wealthy husband. Oh, she begrudged her sister none of it, to be sure! The shoe had been shoved onto the other foot quite unexpectedly, however, and Jane could not deny that it pinched.
This book is the complete package. I loved the story. I believe you will too.
You are wise to study well the ways of the willow. In the face of change, in the throes of adversity, in the midst of conflict and crisis, the willow willingly bends its branches but refuses to release its roots. ~ William Arthur Ward
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
“Elizabeth, I find myself in a position where it is necessary for us to marry.”
Oh, Fitzwilliam Darcy, you old sweet talker, you! How could any girl resist?
Elizabeth Bennet does resist and Darcy must eventually come clean about his necessity for a marriage partner he can tolerate.
The previous night, Caroline Bingley had accomplished a successful compromise; having invaded his bedchamber and encouraged an embrace from a man deep in an erotic dream of Miss Bennet. The trap was sprung, and even Charles Bingley begins to believe Darcy should marry his shrew of a sister. Darcy takes the only way out — he claims a previous engagement offer and acceptance. He convinces the Bingleys and Hursts that he is betrothed to Elizabeth Bennet. Now he must convince Elizabeth.
A further complication arises when Elizabeth and Jane return to Longbourn. Mrs. Bennet has persuaded her husband that a match between Mr. Collins and Elizabeth is necessary. Now Elizabeth is the one who must claim a previous engagement.
With a betrothal beginning like this, what could go wrong?
It would be refreshing to say that Caroline Bingley had finished with her schemes but in this case, it would be completely inaccurate. The lovely Miss Bingley is not finished yet — not by a long shot!
Darcy is reluctant to introduce his betrothed to his beloved younger sister. He does not even agree to Elizabeth’s suggestion of a correspondence between the soon-to-be sisters. Is he hiding something important?
Unlike Lady Catherine, the Matlock family supports Darcy’s engagement. Lady Matlock invites Elizabeth to reside with them for a few weeks since the younger woman has little experience of London society.
Quote from the book: “Certainly there is no shame in that,” Lady Matlock proclaimed. “Until a young lady reaches a certain age, it is best, I think, that she be sheltered from much of what goes on. Too many a young lady has her head turned by some scoundrel just because he dresses well and possesses a fine carriage.”
“Yes, but enough about Saye,” Colonel Fitzwilliam quipped from across the table.
Enter everyone’s favorite Viscount — Viscount Saye, older brother to our dear Colonel. Saye’s part in the book is expanded from the original online story and happily so. He provides welcome comic relief and also retribution, including a comeuppance for Caroline Bingley. Saye believes in punishment to fit the crime. Loved it!
Changing and actually improving are two quite different skills. ~ Dr. SunWolf
Lady Matlock does her best to mold Elizabeth into the sort of woman acceptable to the London ton. But is that what is best for Elizabeth?
Quote from the book: “I can hardly be Lizzy Bennet of Longbourne here in London, can I? I must change, materially change, into something else entirely, and I am trying to do so.”
Is a change in Elizabeth what Darcy truly wants? Is Elizabeth the only one who needs to change?
Quote from the book: “And I fell in love with Elizabeth Bennet, whose petticoats were six inches deep in mud.”
Can Lady Catherine be correct about the dangers of quitting one’s sphere?
“So Material a Change” includes changes to more than Our Dear Couple. What clue to the entail does Darcy discover in the marriage settlement? I loved the ending to the Collins’ storyline.
Jane Bennet must also make a material change. What does she feel after Bingley’s departure? What desperate measure will she take?
Quote from the book: It had always been Lizzy they fretted over, fearing she would never attract a wealthy husband. Oh, she begrudged her sister none of it, to be sure! The shoe had been shoved onto the other foot quite unexpectedly, however, and Jane could not deny that it pinched.
This book is the complete package. I loved the story. I believe you will too.
You are wise to study well the ways of the willow. In the face of change, in the throes of adversity, in the midst of conflict and crisis, the willow willingly bends its branches but refuses to release its roots. ~ William Arthur Ward
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 26, 2021
The concept for this book is fun from the outset, with Darcy and Elizabeth both in dire straits and needful of a way out of their predicament. What follows is a beautiful succession of misunderstandings, realisations and ‘coming of ages’ for all involved as they discover what it is to be essential to another heart as well as one’s own. It’s lovey to see Darcy and Elizabeth learning love and importantly to support each other 100%. Amy, as always, plays the heart strings to the max, keeping it on the vastly enjoyable side of ‘roller coaster journey to love.’ And that’s my favourite type! Saye is at his best, which will gratify fans, but one of my favourites Saye/Darcy scenes ever is in these pages—with Darcy coming out on top, of course. Whole heartedly recommended read for anyone who loves Austenesque romance.
July 7, 2022
Married from circumstances
Darcy and Lizzy find they must marry each other so they don’t have to marry another person.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars. Not much to complain about. The writing, the dialogue are so very, very good. Darcy is every bit as arrogant, proud and prejudiced as in P&P. Here he is very selfish and self centered also. His change to a better man seemed to happen too quickly and Lizzy forgot or forgave his actions to easily.
Everything else was pretty fun. Caroline’s set down was new and original.
Definitely will be put in the reread pile.
Darcy and Lizzy find they must marry each other so they don’t have to marry another person.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars. Not much to complain about. The writing, the dialogue are so very, very good. Darcy is every bit as arrogant, proud and prejudiced as in P&P. Here he is very selfish and self centered also. His change to a better man seemed to happen too quickly and Lizzy forgot or forgave his actions to easily.
Everything else was pretty fun. Caroline’s set down was new and original.
Definitely will be put in the reread pile.
September 22, 2021
I read this online years ago and loved it then. Excellent plot, excellent execution, excellent characters (including a significant addition to canon), excellent dialogue, excellent romance - just exceptional overall writing. So glad Ms. D'Orazio is finally sharing this with the world!
Caroline Bingley recognizes Mr. Darcy's dangerous attraction to Elizabeth Bennet, who is staying at Netherfield to nurse her ill sister. Considering all the time and energy Miss Bingley has spent attempting to garner his notice, she is tired of waiting for a marriage proposal that may never come. She decides it's time to force the issue by staging an incontrovertible compromise in his bed. Her tactic backfires when Darcy not only refuses to marry her but reveals that he's engaged to Miss Elizabeth. It's a lie, but it's the only thing he can think of to convince Bingley to believe he has no interest in the man's manipulative sister.
The next morning, Darcy finds the opportunity to speak with Elizabeth alone, and his marriage proposal is even worse than canon - in fact, it's not a marriage proposal at all. He just informs her that they MUST marry, assuming she will quickly agree. After all, in London, Mr. Darcy of Pemberley is universally considered such a catch! It's only when the country miss turns him down flat that he becomes desperate enough to explain the full situation and grovel a little for her assistance. She reluctantly agrees to PRETEND to be betrothed with the understanding that they will not actually marry.
Her perspective changes abruptly when she returns to Longbourn to find Mr. Collins in residence and both her parents supporting his marital aspirations toward her. Marriage to Mr. Darcy is a far more attractive prospect compared to a life sentence with the smelly, greasy, annoying Mr. Collins. She and Darcy now agree to a REAL engagement, and he duly asks for and receives Mr. Bennet's blessing.
Their betrothal provides Elizabeth with a surprisingly (to her) charming version of Mr. Darcy, who becomes even more delighted with his future spouse as he gets to know her better. Their unacknowledged love for each other grows quickly, and things seem poised for an early HEA. Of course, the course of true love never does run smooth, and that's especially true in a Pride and Prejudice story!
Darcy is secretive. He forbids Elizabeth from any contact with Mr. Wickham with no explanation. He changes the subject when she tries to ask about his sister, Georgiana. Elizabeth, accustomed to a high degree of freedom in negligent Mr. Bennet's household, chafes at Darcy's strictures, especially when Darcy insists that she stop taking long walks alone. And Lady Catherine's early entry into the story plants seeds of doubt in Elizabeth's mind that she'll ever be able to fit into Darcy's world. This is only reinforced when Elizabeth goes to London, where Darcy's other aunt kindly takes her under her wing. Lady Matlock brings her on a series of house calls to demonstrate that the earl's family supports the marriage. While everyone is polite, it's apparent that most of the hostesses and their daughters do not sincerely welcome the country nobody who won their highly-coveted prize, Mr. Darcy.
The plot continues to unfold from there. It engages the reader from beginning to end with unpredictable twists. Georgiana's deep depression, Caroline's wickedly clever scheme to break Jane Bennet's hold on her brother involving Mr. Collins, Elizabeth's attempts to fit into London society, and overlooked details regarding the Longbourn entail are among the secondary storylines that influence the primary plot rather than being irrelevant tangents.
The book is filled with natural-sounding dialogue crafted to perfectly match characters and situations. I particularly love the brotherly banter that flies between Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Viscount Saye. (The latter is the colonel's older brother, and he's probably my favorite non-canon scene-stealer in the JAFF universe.)
Appropriately, Elizabeth and Darcy are the strongest characters. Their misunderstandings are believable rather than contrived, and the chemistry between them fairly leaps off the pages. Both have their flaws; Elizabeth is no Mary Sue here. Despite everything going on around them, their romance remains front and center throughout.
Content is clean. Highly recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Caroline Bingley recognizes Mr. Darcy's dangerous attraction to Elizabeth Bennet, who is staying at Netherfield to nurse her ill sister. Considering all the time and energy Miss Bingley has spent attempting to garner his notice, she is tired of waiting for a marriage proposal that may never come. She decides it's time to force the issue by staging an incontrovertible compromise in his bed. Her tactic backfires when Darcy not only refuses to marry her but reveals that he's engaged to Miss Elizabeth. It's a lie, but it's the only thing he can think of to convince Bingley to believe he has no interest in the man's manipulative sister.
The next morning, Darcy finds the opportunity to speak with Elizabeth alone, and his marriage proposal is even worse than canon - in fact, it's not a marriage proposal at all. He just informs her that they MUST marry, assuming she will quickly agree. After all, in London, Mr. Darcy of Pemberley is universally considered such a catch! It's only when the country miss turns him down flat that he becomes desperate enough to explain the full situation and grovel a little for her assistance. She reluctantly agrees to PRETEND to be betrothed with the understanding that they will not actually marry.
Her perspective changes abruptly when she returns to Longbourn to find Mr. Collins in residence and both her parents supporting his marital aspirations toward her. Marriage to Mr. Darcy is a far more attractive prospect compared to a life sentence with the smelly, greasy, annoying Mr. Collins. She and Darcy now agree to a REAL engagement, and he duly asks for and receives Mr. Bennet's blessing.
Their betrothal provides Elizabeth with a surprisingly (to her) charming version of Mr. Darcy, who becomes even more delighted with his future spouse as he gets to know her better. Their unacknowledged love for each other grows quickly, and things seem poised for an early HEA. Of course, the course of true love never does run smooth, and that's especially true in a Pride and Prejudice story!
Darcy is secretive. He forbids Elizabeth from any contact with Mr. Wickham with no explanation. He changes the subject when she tries to ask about his sister, Georgiana. Elizabeth, accustomed to a high degree of freedom in negligent Mr. Bennet's household, chafes at Darcy's strictures, especially when Darcy insists that she stop taking long walks alone. And Lady Catherine's early entry into the story plants seeds of doubt in Elizabeth's mind that she'll ever be able to fit into Darcy's world. This is only reinforced when Elizabeth goes to London, where Darcy's other aunt kindly takes her under her wing. Lady Matlock brings her on a series of house calls to demonstrate that the earl's family supports the marriage. While everyone is polite, it's apparent that most of the hostesses and their daughters do not sincerely welcome the country nobody who won their highly-coveted prize, Mr. Darcy.
The plot continues to unfold from there. It engages the reader from beginning to end with unpredictable twists. Georgiana's deep depression, Caroline's wickedly clever scheme to break Jane Bennet's hold on her brother involving Mr. Collins, Elizabeth's attempts to fit into London society, and overlooked details regarding the Longbourn entail are among the secondary storylines that influence the primary plot rather than being irrelevant tangents.
The book is filled with natural-sounding dialogue crafted to perfectly match characters and situations. I particularly love the brotherly banter that flies between Darcy, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Viscount Saye. (The latter is the colonel's older brother, and he's probably my favorite non-canon scene-stealer in the JAFF universe.)
Appropriately, Elizabeth and Darcy are the strongest characters. Their misunderstandings are believable rather than contrived, and the chemistry between them fairly leaps off the pages. Both have their flaws; Elizabeth is no Mary Sue here. Despite everything going on around them, their romance remains front and center throughout.
Content is clean. Highly recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2025
This author is definitely one of my favorites and once again does not disappoint. While it is without the darker aspect present in her epics, there is still plenty of angst to go around.
Due to specific circumstances for both Darcy and Elizabeth, they agree to wed each other. That however, is only the beginning of the emotional roller coaster. With not one major high angst point, but several rising and concluding throughout the whole book, it is impossible to put down at any one point. Darcy's and Elizabeth's own doubts of themselves are the biggest villains of the book. However, Lady C, the ton and Miss Bingley have their fair share.
It was about 60-65% thru, I found myself fervently whispering - please let it start to turn around (my blood pressure couldn't take anymore ;). Finally, when everything seemed to implode at once, it did. Elizabeth wakes up to her own emotions, Georgiana takes her first healing steps and Darcy has his Aha! moment. I found my self tearing up a bit for Darcy, as there was such pathos in that moment, which kept it from being a by-rote Aha!
D goes off with Col. F on a fact finding search, determined to be E's hero and other things begin to fall in to place as well. Although there is still a ways to go.
Collins is a - What?!? OMG, never saw that coming! and Miss Bingley gets hers in a most satisfactory way.
It must be noted, there are several LOL moments (specifically concerning Saye) which should come with a warning label -don't drink and read. The dialog and comradery between the male cousins is also very well done and being peppered here and there helps ease the tension.
And my own personal cheer goes to Jane's HEA not being a forgone conclusion wrapped up in a bow with a dozen children birthed in 10 years.
There is very little of the 3 younger Bennet girls, we never meet Anne and no word on what happens to Charlotte or Col. F- who both had relatively small roles.
Absolutely loved it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Due to specific circumstances for both Darcy and Elizabeth, they agree to wed each other. That however, is only the beginning of the emotional roller coaster. With not one major high angst point, but several rising and concluding throughout the whole book, it is impossible to put down at any one point. Darcy's and Elizabeth's own doubts of themselves are the biggest villains of the book. However, Lady C, the ton and Miss Bingley have their fair share.
It was about 60-65% thru, I found myself fervently whispering - please let it start to turn around (my blood pressure couldn't take anymore ;). Finally, when everything seemed to implode at once, it did. Elizabeth wakes up to her own emotions, Georgiana takes her first healing steps and Darcy has his Aha! moment. I found my self tearing up a bit for Darcy, as there was such pathos in that moment, which kept it from being a by-rote Aha!
D goes off with Col. F on a fact finding search, determined to be E's hero and other things begin to fall in to place as well. Although there is still a ways to go.
Collins is a - What?!? OMG, never saw that coming! and Miss Bingley gets hers in a most satisfactory way.
It must be noted, there are several LOL moments (specifically concerning Saye) which should come with a warning label -don't drink and read. The dialog and comradery between the male cousins is also very well done and being peppered here and there helps ease the tension.
And my own personal cheer goes to Jane's HEA not being a forgone conclusion wrapped up in a bow with a dozen children birthed in 10 years.
There is very little of the 3 younger Bennet girls, we never meet Anne and no word on what happens to Charlotte or Col. F- who both had relatively small roles.
Absolutely loved it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 13, 2021
I must have read this as an unpublished story as it is on my list of books read. I found this review among the books I read in 2017. It was an unpublished story. So Material a Change
by NOT A BOOK
Quote from the story: “I cannot say I find it amusing so much as I find it ironic. Both of us placed into very similar situations where we were forced to choose between an unwanted suitor, or each other, and only days apart. One could see the hand of Providence, or Fate in the matter.” Thus Darcy sums up what has happened in the first 10% of the story. Debbie Brown gives the readers an excellent description of what to expect in her review. And as she says, this is a long story which you will be loath to put down so clear your calendar! Plus, if you don’t particularly care for angst in your books: don’t even pick this one up.
As we are informed by the other reviews the book (which is told from various POVs) begins with Caroline in possession of the housekeeper’s keys, letting herself into Darcy’s bedroom at Netherfield late one night. Darcy, being a sound sleeper, doesn’t stir until the scantily dressed Caroline climbs into his bed and interrupts his dream of Lizzy. Caroline is not deterred by hearing him call out that name during caresses but shrieks to gain notice…and to force her brother to demand a marriage.
Yes, Darcy comes up with the excuse that he is already engaged to Elizabeth and, boy, if you think that at Hunsford he steps all over his tongue, read how he delivers this…Not a proposal, but a demand, a statement, that they must be engaged! He does succeed in gaining her compliance but only after finally informing she of what has actually happened and Lizzy only agrees to act this role until they can come up with a different solution. But THEN soon after she and Jane, who has been nursed by E. at Netherfield, return home Elizabeth finds herself in circumstances much like what Darcy experienced. She is being forced by BOTH parents to accept Mr. Collins’ proposal. Her father actually thinks that she will find herself in comfortable surroundings and neighborhood and up to the challenge of amending the person and personality of Mr. Collins. (Does he bathe?) As she now has to explain to Darcy her reasons for accepting that this “proposal” will now in fact lead to a marriage, he replies with the quote above. They need each other.
There are villains and then there are mistaken villains. We find Georgiana self-mutilating and with suicidal thoughts but as we read on and on there is a basis to this that is realistic but also a surprise. Caroline is part and parcel of this narrative and just cannot accept how things have turned out. Like the proverbial “bad penny” she finds ways to be on the scene BUT you might find delight in the irony of what she discovers when she does, finally, find herself forced to wed.
The author is quite creative in another thwarted romance – that of Jane and Bingley and then the story of Mr. Collins and his position as “heir” to Longbourn. Well done. Lady Catherine does take her bow. Lord and Lady Matlock find themselves coming to not only find delight in but also respect for Elizabeth and then their oldest, Saye, adds his own learned wisdom as he is related the motivation behind the engagement ODC find themselves in.
One aspect I found different in the story is that as we follow Lizzy’s thoughts we read of her internal debate about Darcy’s reticence, about his motivation for acts and about his demand for obedience without any discussion. She, in contrast to canon, does attempt to find an opposing view for why he does so and for why he wants her to avoid Wickham, and to not go out on walks alone. She also tries to reason with herself about his attitude towards her family and her neighbors in Meryton. Of course, that is until the straw that breaks the camel’s back in laid in place!
Darcy would have solved a lot of the struggle in this novel if he had been open while Elizabeth could have done her part if she forced him to answer questions about what his history was with Wickham, with Bingley and with Georgiana, etc. But where would all that delicious angst be in a much shortened tale then?
I highly recommend this story. Mystery solved as to why I had not posted a review when I had it on my list of books read...yes, I keep a running tally besides a yearly one.
by NOT A BOOK
Quote from the story: “I cannot say I find it amusing so much as I find it ironic. Both of us placed into very similar situations where we were forced to choose between an unwanted suitor, or each other, and only days apart. One could see the hand of Providence, or Fate in the matter.” Thus Darcy sums up what has happened in the first 10% of the story. Debbie Brown gives the readers an excellent description of what to expect in her review. And as she says, this is a long story which you will be loath to put down so clear your calendar! Plus, if you don’t particularly care for angst in your books: don’t even pick this one up.
As we are informed by the other reviews the book (which is told from various POVs) begins with Caroline in possession of the housekeeper’s keys, letting herself into Darcy’s bedroom at Netherfield late one night. Darcy, being a sound sleeper, doesn’t stir until the scantily dressed Caroline climbs into his bed and interrupts his dream of Lizzy. Caroline is not deterred by hearing him call out that name during caresses but shrieks to gain notice…and to force her brother to demand a marriage.
Yes, Darcy comes up with the excuse that he is already engaged to Elizabeth and, boy, if you think that at Hunsford he steps all over his tongue, read how he delivers this…Not a proposal, but a demand, a statement, that they must be engaged! He does succeed in gaining her compliance but only after finally informing she of what has actually happened and Lizzy only agrees to act this role until they can come up with a different solution. But THEN soon after she and Jane, who has been nursed by E. at Netherfield, return home Elizabeth finds herself in circumstances much like what Darcy experienced. She is being forced by BOTH parents to accept Mr. Collins’ proposal. Her father actually thinks that she will find herself in comfortable surroundings and neighborhood and up to the challenge of amending the person and personality of Mr. Collins. (Does he bathe?) As she now has to explain to Darcy her reasons for accepting that this “proposal” will now in fact lead to a marriage, he replies with the quote above. They need each other.
There are villains and then there are mistaken villains. We find Georgiana self-mutilating and with suicidal thoughts but as we read on and on there is a basis to this that is realistic but also a surprise. Caroline is part and parcel of this narrative and just cannot accept how things have turned out. Like the proverbial “bad penny” she finds ways to be on the scene BUT you might find delight in the irony of what she discovers when she does, finally, find herself forced to wed.
The author is quite creative in another thwarted romance – that of Jane and Bingley and then the story of Mr. Collins and his position as “heir” to Longbourn. Well done. Lady Catherine does take her bow. Lord and Lady Matlock find themselves coming to not only find delight in but also respect for Elizabeth and then their oldest, Saye, adds his own learned wisdom as he is related the motivation behind the engagement ODC find themselves in.
One aspect I found different in the story is that as we follow Lizzy’s thoughts we read of her internal debate about Darcy’s reticence, about his motivation for acts and about his demand for obedience without any discussion. She, in contrast to canon, does attempt to find an opposing view for why he does so and for why he wants her to avoid Wickham, and to not go out on walks alone. She also tries to reason with herself about his attitude towards her family and her neighbors in Meryton. Of course, that is until the straw that breaks the camel’s back in laid in place!
Darcy would have solved a lot of the struggle in this novel if he had been open while Elizabeth could have done her part if she forced him to answer questions about what his history was with Wickham, with Bingley and with Georgiana, etc. But where would all that delicious angst be in a much shortened tale then?
I highly recommend this story. Mystery solved as to why I had not posted a review when I had it on my list of books read...yes, I keep a running tally besides a yearly one.
September 24, 2021
All the wit, the romance, the engaging plot & narrative, the feels - and most critically: the Saye factor!
Ahh- at long last! Sweet, sweet deliverance! The JAFF hex that was placed on me has now been broken, for I have had a love affair with this!
I am a reviewer of an overly verbose persuasion, as I tackle a review more to my benefit of digesting what I read and making private jokes, at the cost of succinctly presenting the experience, which- by the by- mea culpa, mea maxima culpa; say what you will I am aware of my deficits. So if I were to give a good little vague bestseller tag line, it would be this: *chefs kiss*
In all seriousness, I nominate it as a JAFF 2021 must read, it does it and does it well. The story would be good on it's own, no need to borrow the Austen legacy. D'Orazio is a skilled wordsmith in her own right, she conveys emotion, she sets stages with feeling, that the lot is seamless to visualize and experience. She has been tried and true by my standards, and as of now, I would follow her to other genres- to new inceptions.
You shouldn’t read reviews, upon reviews, and spoil it for yourself- not on this one. You should trust fall with the certainty D’Orazio will catch you, and deliver a well savored JAFF, as is her wont to do. You know how stock market gurus say, 'Buy, Buy, Buy!', well I appropriate that here to decree:' Read, Read, Read!'
That being out of the way, here is my trademark gif spotted, rambling review:
Synopsis:
In a cold open that will make you feel veritable chills, we witness in horror as Miss Bingley sneaks into Darcy's bed, enacting a damning compromise.
I'll own this scene had me a nervous wreck. I was reading through the slits of my fingers, with nervous laughter, wondering,
'Oh boy, what did I get myself into?'
Luckily this Darcy is not one to go gently into that bad night. He gives her the ole’ heave ho,
and rushes to rouse Bingley. But when his forthright detailing of the events don't seem sufficient to avoid Bingley twisting his arm into marriage,
Darcy blurts out that he is already engaged, to Miss Elizabeth. Now he must secure his alibi with a not so eager participant.
Darcy to Lizzy:
Lizzy makes her opinions on his person clear, but feeling some sympathy for anyone being forced to marry the wily harpy that is Miss Bingley,
agrees to play along until her return to Longbourn, ensuring Darcy may have an easy escape. Darcy, grateful, promises her an I.O.U.
However, when Lizzy returns home she will be forced to call in his debt, as Mr Bennet is eager to attach her to Mr Collins. Lizzy, taking a page out of Darcy's book, claims to be lately engaged to Darcy. And so the story follows their premature engagement, and all the doubts & strains inherent to the premiss.
Some other subplots are at play: there is something fishy about Mr Collins beyond his odor which is uncovered thank to Darcy Drew; Georgiana being in a worst way than in cannon, has become a recluse fit for a gothic novel; and a Bingley/ Jane misunderstanding due to a game of telephone that was so cleverly worked I couldn't even be mad.
As Lizzy tries her best to fit in with the London set for Darcy's sake, and adjust to his high handed ways,
Darcy:
Darcy increasingly longs for his wild muddied lass and fears her being lost to conformity.
What Pickled my Fancy:
♡The dialogue is just so well rounded: quippy, heartfelt, individual character voice distinctive- just adored it!
♡Georgiana, and her relationship with Lizzy- I thrilled to every interaction.
♡ODC! Their chemistry & the progression of their coming to better understand one another was brilliantly handled.
♡And last, but certainly not least, Viscount Saye!
Literally- and I mean LITERALLY- me every time Saye appeared on page:
He is like a cup of tea: he sets everything to rights- and is very hot.
And though I did try, I could not drum up a single bullet for my cons column.
The Brass Tacks:
This is was a highly interactive read for me, in terms of active engagement, like I burned calories reading this from all the laughter, exclamations, nervous squirming- everything elicited a reaction.
This is not a JAFF that you will feel you have read before, while it has notes of FMA and other little details you have seen before, it is reworked in such a fresh manner that you will be utterly exposed & vulnerable anew. So abandon hopes of drawing shelter from any JAFF inoculation you had sustained, for you will be at the mercy of a fresh strain- is this a poor metaphor considering our present, ongoing, international predicament? Very well, I’ll use drinking: any tolerance you had thought to have built up from years of knocking back shots of JAFFs, kiss them good bye! For this is the 'Everclear' of JAFF: top shelf, 95% pure, no dilution.
꙳ Spice Scale rating: Subtle Serrano 🌶 🌶/5 ꙳
I received an ARC from the publisher through booksprouts in exchange for an honest review.
Ahh- at long last! Sweet, sweet deliverance! The JAFF hex that was placed on me has now been broken, for I have had a love affair with this!
I am a reviewer of an overly verbose persuasion, as I tackle a review more to my benefit of digesting what I read and making private jokes, at the cost of succinctly presenting the experience, which- by the by- mea culpa, mea maxima culpa; say what you will I am aware of my deficits. So if I were to give a good little vague bestseller tag line, it would be this: *chefs kiss*
In all seriousness, I nominate it as a JAFF 2021 must read, it does it and does it well. The story would be good on it's own, no need to borrow the Austen legacy. D'Orazio is a skilled wordsmith in her own right, she conveys emotion, she sets stages with feeling, that the lot is seamless to visualize and experience. She has been tried and true by my standards, and as of now, I would follow her to other genres- to new inceptions.
You shouldn’t read reviews, upon reviews, and spoil it for yourself- not on this one. You should trust fall with the certainty D’Orazio will catch you, and deliver a well savored JAFF, as is her wont to do. You know how stock market gurus say, 'Buy, Buy, Buy!', well I appropriate that here to decree:' Read, Read, Read!'
That being out of the way, here is my trademark gif spotted, rambling review:
Synopsis:
In a cold open that will make you feel veritable chills, we witness in horror as Miss Bingley sneaks into Darcy's bed, enacting a damning compromise.
I'll own this scene had me a nervous wreck. I was reading through the slits of my fingers, with nervous laughter, wondering,
'Oh boy, what did I get myself into?'
Luckily this Darcy is not one to go gently into that bad night. He gives her the ole’ heave ho,
and rushes to rouse Bingley. But when his forthright detailing of the events don't seem sufficient to avoid Bingley twisting his arm into marriage,
Darcy blurts out that he is already engaged, to Miss Elizabeth. Now he must secure his alibi with a not so eager participant.
Darcy to Lizzy:
Lizzy makes her opinions on his person clear, but feeling some sympathy for anyone being forced to marry the wily harpy that is Miss Bingley,
agrees to play along until her return to Longbourn, ensuring Darcy may have an easy escape. Darcy, grateful, promises her an I.O.U.
However, when Lizzy returns home she will be forced to call in his debt, as Mr Bennet is eager to attach her to Mr Collins. Lizzy, taking a page out of Darcy's book, claims to be lately engaged to Darcy. And so the story follows their premature engagement, and all the doubts & strains inherent to the premiss.
Some other subplots are at play: there is something fishy about Mr Collins beyond his odor which is uncovered thank to Darcy Drew; Georgiana being in a worst way than in cannon, has become a recluse fit for a gothic novel; and a Bingley/ Jane misunderstanding due to a game of telephone that was so cleverly worked I couldn't even be mad.
As Lizzy tries her best to fit in with the London set for Darcy's sake, and adjust to his high handed ways,
Darcy:
Darcy increasingly longs for his wild muddied lass and fears her being lost to conformity.
What Pickled my Fancy:
♡The dialogue is just so well rounded: quippy, heartfelt, individual character voice distinctive- just adored it!
♡Georgiana, and her relationship with Lizzy- I thrilled to every interaction.
♡ODC! Their chemistry & the progression of their coming to better understand one another was brilliantly handled.
♡And last, but certainly not least, Viscount Saye!
Literally- and I mean LITERALLY- me every time Saye appeared on page:
He is like a cup of tea: he sets everything to rights- and is very hot.
And though I did try, I could not drum up a single bullet for my cons column.
The Brass Tacks:
This is was a highly interactive read for me, in terms of active engagement, like I burned calories reading this from all the laughter, exclamations, nervous squirming- everything elicited a reaction.
This is not a JAFF that you will feel you have read before, while it has notes of FMA and other little details you have seen before, it is reworked in such a fresh manner that you will be utterly exposed & vulnerable anew. So abandon hopes of drawing shelter from any JAFF inoculation you had sustained, for you will be at the mercy of a fresh strain- is this a poor metaphor considering our present, ongoing, international predicament? Very well, I’ll use drinking: any tolerance you had thought to have built up from years of knocking back shots of JAFFs, kiss them good bye! For this is the 'Everclear' of JAFF: top shelf, 95% pure, no dilution.
꙳ Spice Scale rating: Subtle Serrano 🌶 🌶/5 ꙳
I received an ARC from the publisher through booksprouts in exchange for an honest review.
December 20, 2021
Nearly compromised into a forced marriage with a conniving woman he can barely stand, he desperately spouts the first thing he can think of to rescue himself. Engaged to someone else. But, then he must follow through with the charade. Only, it is no longer a charade when the young lady in question discovers that her parents plan to serve her up as the family sacrifice to a disgusting buffoon of a man to provide for the family future. It is with great relief that she admits that she is already engaged.
Thus, there is an entertaining and curious twist on a marriage for convenience for two of Jane Austen’s iconic lovers.
So Material a Change approaches class difference, societal expectation, the darker side of the Regency and a twist on a classic with flair. At first, I found the “I’m already engaged” responses to two people who had no plans to marry and definitely not to each other, the start of a comedy, but it was obvious that this was no game because they had to somehow learn to like let alone love each other, compromise on some points, and trust each other when they could trust no one else at times. I enjoyed watching them become a true partnership even while struggling with the unexpected feelings that popped up for each other and made them vulnerable. I wanted to thump Lizzy for all her doubts, but yet who wouldn’t have struggled so hard in the situation she was in. They both had so far to come and under the pressure of family- of all of London society watching them and most hoping they failed.
But, they did get some support and that leads me to how wonderful the relationships and characters were developed. Yes, Lizzy and Darcy had a tough-fought swoony romance, but I also speak of secondary romances and some familial ties. Darcy’s Fitzwilliam family were wonderful. I have to say now that his oldest cousin was the best outlandish oddity that has been written in some time. That man saw the world in technicolor and said and did everything with panache. The support he gave his cousin and Lizzy was fabulous, but the revenge he enacted against their worst enemy was the coup de grace.
After all their struggles, I found the longer denouement worked as an excellent counter-balance to all the earlier strain. I liked seeing what came after and getting a few last minute bits clarified. And, the epilogue was sugary sweet and left me smiling.
All in all, So Material Change was an abso-fab sweet historical romance classical variation. No need to have read the classic prior to as this book stands alone fine. Definitely recommend to Austenesque fans, but historical romancers in general, as well.
I rec’d a paper copy of this book from Quills & Quartos to read in exchange for an honest review.
Thus, there is an entertaining and curious twist on a marriage for convenience for two of Jane Austen’s iconic lovers.
So Material a Change approaches class difference, societal expectation, the darker side of the Regency and a twist on a classic with flair. At first, I found the “I’m already engaged” responses to two people who had no plans to marry and definitely not to each other, the start of a comedy, but it was obvious that this was no game because they had to somehow learn to like let alone love each other, compromise on some points, and trust each other when they could trust no one else at times. I enjoyed watching them become a true partnership even while struggling with the unexpected feelings that popped up for each other and made them vulnerable. I wanted to thump Lizzy for all her doubts, but yet who wouldn’t have struggled so hard in the situation she was in. They both had so far to come and under the pressure of family- of all of London society watching them and most hoping they failed.
But, they did get some support and that leads me to how wonderful the relationships and characters were developed. Yes, Lizzy and Darcy had a tough-fought swoony romance, but I also speak of secondary romances and some familial ties. Darcy’s Fitzwilliam family were wonderful. I have to say now that his oldest cousin was the best outlandish oddity that has been written in some time. That man saw the world in technicolor and said and did everything with panache. The support he gave his cousin and Lizzy was fabulous, but the revenge he enacted against their worst enemy was the coup de grace.
After all their struggles, I found the longer denouement worked as an excellent counter-balance to all the earlier strain. I liked seeing what came after and getting a few last minute bits clarified. And, the epilogue was sugary sweet and left me smiling.
All in all, So Material Change was an abso-fab sweet historical romance classical variation. No need to have read the classic prior to as this book stands alone fine. Definitely recommend to Austenesque fans, but historical romancers in general, as well.
I rec’d a paper copy of this book from Quills & Quartos to read in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2021
A 2021 Favourite
This is the first book I’ve listened to on Audible before reading the Kindle version, as the audiobook was released first. The audiobook is fabulous with Stevie Zimmerman at her outstanding best, as usual. I will wait and review the book until I read the Kindle version upon its release.
Update: October 16, 2021
Kindle version: I do think I prefer reading the book first but, oh my goodness, this book is so good on audio that I ended up also following along with Stevie as I enjoyed this story a second time.
Vague spoilers may follow.
So what can be more delightful than spending a rainy day enjoying Amy D’Orazio’s entertaining portrayals of my favourite characters? Not much. In this page-turning ‘sort of’ forced marriage trope, there’s a compromise, but it’s not between Darcy and Elizabeth; however, it does lead ODC to help one another out of unwanted circumstances. Caroline interferes. Oh Bingley. Wickham will help Elizabeth, leading to a misunderstanding with Darcy. Will the real Mr. Collins please stand up.
I love this favourite author’s brilliant imagination and, her charming sense of humour is laugh-out-loud funny. Once again, we are treated to the antics of the Fitzwilliam brothers, Lord Saye and the Colonel, and I absolutely love this Darcy when in their company. Ms. D’Orazio allows his sense of humour to shine too. There’s a scene between Darcy and Saye that I read multiple times over and, with Stevie Zimmerman’s audio attached to it—oh my goodness—just soooo good!
I’m adding this trigger warning, as there is one mention of a character inflicting self harm upon herself. (Not Elizabeth)
This book definitely goes into my 2021 favourites stack as well as my reread stack. I highly recommend both the audiobook and Kindle versions.
This is the first book I’ve listened to on Audible before reading the Kindle version, as the audiobook was released first. The audiobook is fabulous with Stevie Zimmerman at her outstanding best, as usual. I will wait and review the book until I read the Kindle version upon its release.
Update: October 16, 2021
Kindle version: I do think I prefer reading the book first but, oh my goodness, this book is so good on audio that I ended up also following along with Stevie as I enjoyed this story a second time.
Vague spoilers may follow.
So what can be more delightful than spending a rainy day enjoying Amy D’Orazio’s entertaining portrayals of my favourite characters? Not much. In this page-turning ‘sort of’ forced marriage trope, there’s a compromise, but it’s not between Darcy and Elizabeth; however, it does lead ODC to help one another out of unwanted circumstances. Caroline interferes. Oh Bingley. Wickham will help Elizabeth, leading to a misunderstanding with Darcy. Will the real Mr. Collins please stand up.
I love this favourite author’s brilliant imagination and, her charming sense of humour is laugh-out-loud funny. Once again, we are treated to the antics of the Fitzwilliam brothers, Lord Saye and the Colonel, and I absolutely love this Darcy when in their company. Ms. D’Orazio allows his sense of humour to shine too. There’s a scene between Darcy and Saye that I read multiple times over and, with Stevie Zimmerman’s audio attached to it—oh my goodness—just soooo good!
I’m adding this trigger warning, as there is one mention of a character inflicting self harm upon herself. (Not Elizabeth)
This book definitely goes into my 2021 favourites stack as well as my reread stack. I highly recommend both the audiobook and Kindle versions.
February 24, 2023
2/24/23- Listened to the audiobook and loved it just as much as when I read it! I Love A.D. books!
Amy D’Orazio is one of my very favorite JAFF authors and this book is another reason why! I love her beautiful writing, the clever and witty dialogue, the depth and development of the characters and some great and unique stories! This was an engaging book with a great balance of humor, angst and romance.
The engagement between D&E comes pretty early on in this book and the premise for it is original. Both Darcy and Elizabeth are put into the very unfortunate situation of being forced into the most undesirable marriage imaginable, or becoming engaged to each other. Darcy is the first to find himself in the hot seat where he applies the principle of desperate times calling for desperate measures, using Elizabeth Bennet as a way out of being forced into a repulsive marriage. One morning when Jane and Elizabeth are staying at Netherfield, Elizabeth is quite shocked when she is maneuvered into a walk with Darcy and is basically informed that they would need to marry. Knowing what was sure to follow, I ALMOST felt sorry for Darcy as he, unsurprisingly, makes a muck out of his “proposal”. This conversation was absolutely hilarious and I just adored the banter. You know it’s going to be good when the thought that goes through Darcy’s head as he plans to speak to an unsuspecting Elizabeth Bennet is this,
“Miss Elizabeth Bennet, your life is about to become something you might never have dreamt possible.”
My own words can’t compare with the entertaining dialogue of the book, so I will throw in a few lines directly from the book. Darcy then begins the conversation with this:
“Elizabeth, I find myself in a position where it is necessary for us to marry.”
As expected, he continues to tell Elizabeth in the most insulting way, about her good fortune in soon becoming Mrs. Darcy. As also expected, Elizabeth declines her good fortune to Darcy’s utter shock. He replies,:
“Not marry me?” He favoured her with a puzzled look. “I can and will give you more than you have ever imagined in terms of wealth and consequence, and I daresay you will be the envy of nearly every woman in England. Do you not realise what a match you will have made in accepting my suit?”
The envy of every woman in England? Good Lord, the pride of this man is beyond the pale. “Mr Darcy, I cannot decide whether I have gone mad or you have. By the looks of you”—he truly does look quite fatigued and distressed—“my inclination is to guess that it is you.”
Unfortunately for Elizabeth, only days later she finds herself in a very similar situation with an equally repulsive prospect and before she knows it, she uses Darcy as her way out of it just as he had used her. Our couple now find themselves inescapably engaged. As they settle things between them, Darcy comments:
“In any case, we are getting married, and there is nothing for either of us to do but reconcile ourselves to it.” She laughed aloud then adopted a teasing simper. “Such pretty, romantic words! Sir, you will cause me to swoon!”
These are just a few short examples of the fun and entertaining dialogue that I so enjoyed in this book!
As the story progresses, the newly engaged couple realize they don’t really know each other at all and begin the progress of trying to learn and understand one another so they can try and make the best out of a situation that neither of them would have chosen. There are, of course, misunderstandings, arguments, obstacles and lots of road blocks on the couple’s journey to their HEA. The portrayal of both D&E seemed very true to who we know them to be and I also enjoyed the supporting characters, both the familiar ones as well as the original ones. Lord Saye is such a delight and a masterpiece! He is the character that I always look forward to the most in this author’s books! He is such a hoot and always has me laughing out loud! My favorite Lord Saye quote in this book:
“And I am as barbarous as I am alluring,” Saye said. “They want me, they fear me, but most of all, they fear how much they want me.”
I also really loved the development of the relationship between Elizabeth and Georgiana. Georgiana’s story in this book is very complex and difficult and it was very moving to see the slow steps of healing that resulted from the small efforts made on her behalf by her new sister. I loved what I felt was the turning point for Georgiana, when she was made to feel like she actually had something to give and contribute when she was appealed to to comfort someone else. I smiled as I read that conversation:
“Just listen to me whinge, and then assure me that anyone who dared to cross me is vile and due a vicious case of spots all over her face.” To this Georgiana laughed outright, and the sound was pleasant. “Or that she will be cursed to trip and make a fool of herself when she dances at Almack’s.”
Even Mrs. Bennet and Mrs. Philips had made me giggle at towards the end as they discussed an unusual occurrence that took place on Longbourn’s lawn.
Overall, this book was a delight to read. The pace of the story was good and kept me engaged the entire time. There was enough angst to give the story the necessary depth, but it wasn’t dragged out overly long. The characters were realistic and likable and the humor kept me very well entertained! I know this is a book that I will read and reread many times!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Amy D’Orazio is one of my very favorite JAFF authors and this book is another reason why! I love her beautiful writing, the clever and witty dialogue, the depth and development of the characters and some great and unique stories! This was an engaging book with a great balance of humor, angst and romance.
The engagement between D&E comes pretty early on in this book and the premise for it is original. Both Darcy and Elizabeth are put into the very unfortunate situation of being forced into the most undesirable marriage imaginable, or becoming engaged to each other. Darcy is the first to find himself in the hot seat where he applies the principle of desperate times calling for desperate measures, using Elizabeth Bennet as a way out of being forced into a repulsive marriage. One morning when Jane and Elizabeth are staying at Netherfield, Elizabeth is quite shocked when she is maneuvered into a walk with Darcy and is basically informed that they would need to marry. Knowing what was sure to follow, I ALMOST felt sorry for Darcy as he, unsurprisingly, makes a muck out of his “proposal”. This conversation was absolutely hilarious and I just adored the banter. You know it’s going to be good when the thought that goes through Darcy’s head as he plans to speak to an unsuspecting Elizabeth Bennet is this,
“Miss Elizabeth Bennet, your life is about to become something you might never have dreamt possible.”
My own words can’t compare with the entertaining dialogue of the book, so I will throw in a few lines directly from the book. Darcy then begins the conversation with this:
“Elizabeth, I find myself in a position where it is necessary for us to marry.”
As expected, he continues to tell Elizabeth in the most insulting way, about her good fortune in soon becoming Mrs. Darcy. As also expected, Elizabeth declines her good fortune to Darcy’s utter shock. He replies,:
“Not marry me?” He favoured her with a puzzled look. “I can and will give you more than you have ever imagined in terms of wealth and consequence, and I daresay you will be the envy of nearly every woman in England. Do you not realise what a match you will have made in accepting my suit?”
The envy of every woman in England? Good Lord, the pride of this man is beyond the pale. “Mr Darcy, I cannot decide whether I have gone mad or you have. By the looks of you”—he truly does look quite fatigued and distressed—“my inclination is to guess that it is you.”
Unfortunately for Elizabeth, only days later she finds herself in a very similar situation with an equally repulsive prospect and before she knows it, she uses Darcy as her way out of it just as he had used her. Our couple now find themselves inescapably engaged. As they settle things between them, Darcy comments:
“In any case, we are getting married, and there is nothing for either of us to do but reconcile ourselves to it.” She laughed aloud then adopted a teasing simper. “Such pretty, romantic words! Sir, you will cause me to swoon!”
These are just a few short examples of the fun and entertaining dialogue that I so enjoyed in this book!
As the story progresses, the newly engaged couple realize they don’t really know each other at all and begin the progress of trying to learn and understand one another so they can try and make the best out of a situation that neither of them would have chosen. There are, of course, misunderstandings, arguments, obstacles and lots of road blocks on the couple’s journey to their HEA. The portrayal of both D&E seemed very true to who we know them to be and I also enjoyed the supporting characters, both the familiar ones as well as the original ones. Lord Saye is such a delight and a masterpiece! He is the character that I always look forward to the most in this author’s books! He is such a hoot and always has me laughing out loud! My favorite Lord Saye quote in this book:
“And I am as barbarous as I am alluring,” Saye said. “They want me, they fear me, but most of all, they fear how much they want me.”
I also really loved the development of the relationship between Elizabeth and Georgiana. Georgiana’s story in this book is very complex and difficult and it was very moving to see the slow steps of healing that resulted from the small efforts made on her behalf by her new sister. I loved what I felt was the turning point for Georgiana, when she was made to feel like she actually had something to give and contribute when she was appealed to to comfort someone else. I smiled as I read that conversation:
“Just listen to me whinge, and then assure me that anyone who dared to cross me is vile and due a vicious case of spots all over her face.” To this Georgiana laughed outright, and the sound was pleasant. “Or that she will be cursed to trip and make a fool of herself when she dances at Almack’s.”
Even Mrs. Bennet and Mrs. Philips had made me giggle at towards the end as they discussed an unusual occurrence that took place on Longbourn’s lawn.
Overall, this book was a delight to read. The pace of the story was good and kept me engaged the entire time. There was enough angst to give the story the necessary depth, but it wasn’t dragged out overly long. The characters were realistic and likable and the humor kept me very well entertained! I know this is a book that I will read and reread many times!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2022
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variations
THE PREMISE: In a desperate effort to thwart a terribly ill-conceived compromise attempt, Mr. Darcy surprises everyone by claiming a prior engagement with none other than Elizabeth Bennet. While Elizabeth is extremely averse to any relationship with Mr. Darcy and eagerly tells him so, she soon finds herself facing a similar situation of being coerced to accept an undesirable proposal by her parents… Can Darcy and Elizabeth save each other from worse fates?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Mutually Beneficial: What a fun premise! I love how both Darcy and Elizabeth cleverly turn the tables to subvert impending engagements! And how both seize a future together willingly, and aim to make the best of it despite it not being of their initial choosing. It was an interesting beginning for their relationship. There were some forthright discussions that led to more openness and less misunderstandings which was pleasant to see.
- Flirty Courtship: I loved seeing Darcy act the part of ardent suitor! And I loved all the moments where the lines felt blurry and it was hard to decipher what was or was not real. And, like Elizabeth, I fell hard for Darcy being all cute and flirty with his banter and teasing! i.e. the adorable conversation about kissing and his impatient visit inside Longbourn. 😍😍 I longed for all those moments where they could share a private conversation with each other.
- Realistic Struggles: While this story is maybe lower in angst than some of Amy D’Orazio’s other tales, I appreciated seeing Darcy and Elizabeth still face challenges in their relationship with each other. The moments where they experienced doubts and discord, the times their lives/wishes felt incompatible, and the instances where they let their emotions get the best of them. Darcy is mostly at fault for some of these relationship struggles as his officious behavior has gone unchecked and he is keeping some secrets from Elizabeth regrading Georgiana.
- Viscount Saye and Brotherly Ribbing: Saye is becoming more famous and beloved with every novel Ms. D’Orazio writes. It comes as no surprise that his presence in this story was immeasurably entertaining and that he would continuously steal every scene he is in! While he loves to play that part of a disinterested and fashionable playboy, I love that Saye has such a tender heart and gives unstinting support to those in his family. The scenes where we see these cousins and brothers let loose in their conversations and teasing were sheer delight!
- Into the Fitzwilliam Fold: A lovely spotlight on the Fitzwilliam family. They are all such dear and likable characters. I loved seeing their support and relationships with both Darcy and Elizabeth.
Georgiana, Mr. Collins, and the Bingleys: Some interesting new deviations with these characters. There were a few refreshingly unique plots, reactions, and developments! I appreciated how these secondary plots brought some different emotions and dynamics to the story. Well done!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND:
I got nothing, except maybe wanting some more!
CONCLUSION:
Another brilliant and enthralling story from the pen of Amy D’Orazio! So Material a Change is a wonderfully compelling Pride and Prejudice variation full of sincerity and humor, false claims and familial support, playful teasing and irrepressible ardor. I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
December 16, 2021
"She had never believed she would grow so desperate as to resort to something like this." (quote from the book)
And so begins another Amy D'Orazio Pride & Prejudice variation filled with beautiful prose, unique twists and turns, and taking Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet on a journey of discovery that neither expected... all because of the manipulations of others. All my emotions were engaged and the building chemistry between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy was a slow burn. I did find myself sounding like Mrs. Bennet on occasion though.
"To put it simply, we must marry." (quote from the book)
In an effort to avoid being forced to marry Miss Bingley, Mr. Darcy claims he is already engaged. His offer of marriage is soundly refused by Elizabeth Bennet. Mr. Darcy is shocked to say the least. Oh, Mr. Darcy!
"Thank heavens she knew she could always depend upon her father to save her." (quote from the book)
At Longbourn, Mrs. Bennet has 'a moment of clarity' and uses that to convince Mr. Bennet which daughter must marry Mr. Collins. Oh, Mr. Bennet!
"No one has said a thing to you, and you have already condemned yourself to scorn and universal rejection." (quote from the book)
And so begins an engagement of convenience steeped in disguise in more ways than one. Mr. Darcy abhors disguise, but he abhors scandal even more. However, he is not the only one hiding secrets. Caroline Bingley may have been thwarted, but she works on two of the weakest links...Oh, Mr. Bingley! Oh, Mr. Collins!
But into the fray walks our favourite cousin to Darcy...Lord Saye! Yes, I still love the Colonel, however, Lord Saye just adds that extra insouciance that we all love from him. I still 'say' he should have his own novel!
I highly recommend this book as have so many others! There is just something special about each of Ms. D'Orazio's variations.
May 7, 2022
When Caroline Bingley’s desperation for the money and status of Mr Darcy, leads her to attempt a compromise, he is equally desperate to avoid marrying her.
So desperate, that he lies to his friend, Charles Bingley, claiming he is betrothed to Elizabeth Bennet, who happens to be visiting the house.
She has never liked Mr Darcy and refuses his officious proposal – “I find it necessary that we should marry!”
However, on returning to her home, she discovers that both of her parents are determined that she marry her cousin, Mr Collins.
He is the heir to her family’s estate, stupid and physically repellent. Elizabeth's only escape is to tell her father that she has accepted Mr Darcy.
From this beginning of an engagement to the least, worst option, Elizabeth and Darcy must try to carve out a happy future.
This is wonderful book with angst, passion, misunderstandings, love and acceptance. I heartily recommend you read it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
So desperate, that he lies to his friend, Charles Bingley, claiming he is betrothed to Elizabeth Bennet, who happens to be visiting the house.
She has never liked Mr Darcy and refuses his officious proposal – “I find it necessary that we should marry!”
However, on returning to her home, she discovers that both of her parents are determined that she marry her cousin, Mr Collins.
He is the heir to her family’s estate, stupid and physically repellent. Elizabeth's only escape is to tell her father that she has accepted Mr Darcy.
From this beginning of an engagement to the least, worst option, Elizabeth and Darcy must try to carve out a happy future.
This is wonderful book with angst, passion, misunderstandings, love and acceptance. I heartily recommend you read it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
February 14, 2024
It’s Thanksgiving week and I’m rereading all my favorite JAFF. This book might be better the second time around.
ODC come to an early understanding but with lots of bumps in the road before and after.
Caroline, oh Caro - such a naughty girl. Does so many bad things and gets what’s coming to her by Saye
Speaking of Saye - so fun! Lizzy & Saye need to be BFFs 4ever.
Jane - gets her heartbroken but stands firm and makes Bingley work for it
Prior review:
OMG I have a new favorite.
It’s so good that writing a review right now is beyond anything I’m able to do right now
If you like JAFF just go read it.
ODC come to an early understanding but with lots of bumps in the road before and after.
Caroline, oh Caro - such a naughty girl. Does so many bad things and gets what’s coming to her by Saye
Speaking of Saye - so fun! Lizzy & Saye need to be BFFs 4ever.
Jane - gets her heartbroken but stands firm and makes Bingley work for it
Prior review:
OMG I have a new favorite.
It’s so good that writing a review right now is beyond anything I’m able to do right now
If you like JAFF just go read it.
December 28, 2021
You’ve heard the saying two wrongs don’t make a right. Will two lies make a truth?
Rating: MA: rather descriptive and sensually suggestive right off the bat. Not for younger readers. Bawdy and… um… well, we are dealing with Lord Saye and he has no qualms in saying whatever pops in his head. It seems the poor boy doesn’t have a filter. He was hilarious and I adore this character that Amy created. He is a fan favorite. Angst Level: This is an Amy story, of course, there be angst. Whew! She is known for it. Expect it. Gird up your loins to endure it. You cannot escape so don’t even try. I loved the way she tempered and diffused it with humor and distraction scenes. Time Period: Netherfield, where Elizabeth was caring for Jane. Source: ARC from the Quills & Quartos Publishing with no expectations of a review. The views expressed are my own. I first read this years ago as an unpublished work on the forums. I loved it then and was delighted to see it redone and published. I was so happy to read it again and have since read it twice. Heavy sigh. This was an amazing story and I highly recommend it.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
Caught between a rock and a hard place: first up our own Mr. Darcy: “And even honorable men keep secrets for the safety of those they love.” –Micheline Ryckman, The Maiden Ship
Poor Darcy was caught between a rock and a hard place. That would be Charles and his scheming social-climbing sister Miss Bingley. OMG! She didn’t. Oh, yes, she did. Our Caro did the unthinkable and brother Bingley saw an opportunity to get rid of his spinster sister. I didn’t particularly care for his attitude or response to the situation. I know for sure that Darcy didn’t. He was suddenly seeing his friend through different eyes.
Of course, Elizabeth had to be involved: “I wasn’t in love with him. But, I couldn’t unlove him.” –Pratibha Malav, If Tomorrow Comes
When Darcy approached Elizabeth Bennet with a proposition, she flatly refused him. That was until she returned home to a situation of her own. Now she was caught between her own rock and a hard place. That would be Mr. Collins and her parents. Yes, Mr. Bennet was included in that as well. Mr. Bennet saw a way to maintain the future stability of Longbourn with little or no trouble to himself. OMG! Suddenly Darcy’s proposition wasn’t such a bad idea after all. Now, Darcy and Elizabeth were working together toward the same goal. Avoiding the unthinkable at all costs.
Caroline: “Those who pray for your downfall are concentrating negative thoughts towards you, without taking cognizance of the slippery ground in which they are standing, which could lead to their downfall.” –Michael Bassey Johnson
With her missed opportunity in securing Darcy, our Caro was determined to save her brother from the same fate as Darcy… marriage into that awful Bennet family. She cast her web of deceit far and wide and caught the ever-gullible Mr. Collins. She told him such a lie that Darcy would never forgive her if he found out. She failed to consider Darcy’s cousin, the Viscount, as a worthy adversary. Lord Saye took care of Caroline in a most creative way. It was priceless and it was very public. It would be a coup the ton would not soon forget. I had to laugh.
Amy D’Orazio is famous for creating the angst that causes our dear couple to misunderstand each other and/or to cause problems for themselves. OMG! I could just see it coming. I cringed as scenes unfolded and I just wanted to cry. I would have hunted our author down to beg her to change it. However, I didn’t know what country she was in. OMG! This was where the reader would lose sleep. DAMAGE CONTROL: Seriously, this nearly did me in.
Bingley: “If two types of attachments are pulling you in two opposite direction[s] and you’re not able to decide which way to go, take a break from both attachments. Conflict will automatically resolve. A few months of solitude can save you from [a] lifetime of complications.” --Shunya
Bingley was staying at a London inn when he received a note from Caroline. Both his sisters and Hurst were now back in London and had closed up Netherfield. When he asked why our Caroline spewed forth her pack of lies to convince him that Jane Bennet cared nothing for him and was spoken for by another. When Charles mentioned that he loved Jane and was sure she loved him, Caroline declared that love had nothing to do with it. Miss Bennet was the firstborn and it was her duty. She would save the family and be mistress of Longbourn.
Up next, our own dear Jane: “It’s me. I chose this. I chose all of this—this rock has been waiting for me my entire life. I’ve been moving towards it my whole life.” –Aron Ralston, Between a Rock and a Hard Place
Poor Jane was now caught between her own rock and a hard place. She had been abandoned by Bingley and was now being overlooked by other men because of his rejection of her. She struggled with her confidence as she listened to her mother and Aunt Philips gossip about her failures in the marriage mart. Jane was beginning to feel desperate.
Collins… who was he really? He thought Lady Catherine would be pleased to know her nephew’s business while staying in Meryton. Oh, he was sure she would reward such a person for notifying her of her nephew’s treachery in abandoning her daughter for his low-born Bennet cousin. He was not wrong. Lady Catherine arrived at Longbourn in a high dungeon. Her diatribe of anger and disappointed hopes had no effect on Elizabeth who conducted herself with all the dignity she could muster. She declared and upheld Darcy’s honor that would not allow him to ask for the hand of one if he was already promised to another. Lady Catherine then did the unthinkable and attempted to bribe Elizabeth to break the engagement. Her Ladyship offered an obscene amount of money that was equivalent to many years of income at Longbourn. The cutting words Lady Catherine spewed forth haunted Elizabeth as nothing else could. Her marriage to Darcy would destroy his name and ruin him.
Lady Catherine then stormed Matlock House and was demanding her brother the earl DO SOMETHING. We were then introduced to a favorite character that our author Amy likes to use, Lord Saye. Oh, this guy was a scream. He and his brother, our dear Colonel, were a riot when they were together. When he was on the page you knew something outrageous would be said or would happen. I absolutely adored him.
Georgiana was an emotional wreck after her near elopement with Wickham. She went emo as they say and Darcy wouldn’t let Elizabeth near her. When Elizabeth did finally meet Georgiana, Darcy went emo himself and forbid her to see Georgiana again. In his selfish pride, he actually stated that his sister’s problems were his fault and it should be up to him to fix them. Seriously? Elizabeth had younger sisters and knew that the only thing Georgiana needed was a friend. Soon, the moth was drawn to the flame, and Georgiana and Elizabeth became friends. It was through Elizabeth’s kindness that Georgiana came out of her melancholy. I may have to read this again.
10-20-21
12-27-21 reading it again.
Rating: MA: rather descriptive and sensually suggestive right off the bat. Not for younger readers. Bawdy and… um… well, we are dealing with Lord Saye and he has no qualms in saying whatever pops in his head. It seems the poor boy doesn’t have a filter. He was hilarious and I adore this character that Amy created. He is a fan favorite. Angst Level: This is an Amy story, of course, there be angst. Whew! She is known for it. Expect it. Gird up your loins to endure it. You cannot escape so don’t even try. I loved the way she tempered and diffused it with humor and distraction scenes. Time Period: Netherfield, where Elizabeth was caring for Jane. Source: ARC from the Quills & Quartos Publishing with no expectations of a review. The views expressed are my own. I first read this years ago as an unpublished work on the forums. I loved it then and was delighted to see it redone and published. I was so happy to read it again and have since read it twice. Heavy sigh. This was an amazing story and I highly recommend it.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
Caught between a rock and a hard place: first up our own Mr. Darcy: “And even honorable men keep secrets for the safety of those they love.” –Micheline Ryckman, The Maiden Ship
Poor Darcy was caught between a rock and a hard place. That would be Charles and his scheming social-climbing sister Miss Bingley. OMG! She didn’t. Oh, yes, she did. Our Caro did the unthinkable and brother Bingley saw an opportunity to get rid of his spinster sister. I didn’t particularly care for his attitude or response to the situation. I know for sure that Darcy didn’t. He was suddenly seeing his friend through different eyes.
Of course, Elizabeth had to be involved: “I wasn’t in love with him. But, I couldn’t unlove him.” –Pratibha Malav, If Tomorrow Comes
When Darcy approached Elizabeth Bennet with a proposition, she flatly refused him. That was until she returned home to a situation of her own. Now she was caught between her own rock and a hard place. That would be Mr. Collins and her parents. Yes, Mr. Bennet was included in that as well. Mr. Bennet saw a way to maintain the future stability of Longbourn with little or no trouble to himself. OMG! Suddenly Darcy’s proposition wasn’t such a bad idea after all. Now, Darcy and Elizabeth were working together toward the same goal. Avoiding the unthinkable at all costs.
Caroline: “Those who pray for your downfall are concentrating negative thoughts towards you, without taking cognizance of the slippery ground in which they are standing, which could lead to their downfall.” –Michael Bassey Johnson
With her missed opportunity in securing Darcy, our Caro was determined to save her brother from the same fate as Darcy… marriage into that awful Bennet family. She cast her web of deceit far and wide and caught the ever-gullible Mr. Collins. She told him such a lie that Darcy would never forgive her if he found out. She failed to consider Darcy’s cousin, the Viscount, as a worthy adversary. Lord Saye took care of Caroline in a most creative way. It was priceless and it was very public. It would be a coup the ton would not soon forget. I had to laugh.
Amy D’Orazio is famous for creating the angst that causes our dear couple to misunderstand each other and/or to cause problems for themselves. OMG! I could just see it coming. I cringed as scenes unfolded and I just wanted to cry. I would have hunted our author down to beg her to change it. However, I didn’t know what country she was in. OMG! This was where the reader would lose sleep. DAMAGE CONTROL: Seriously, this nearly did me in.
Bingley: “If two types of attachments are pulling you in two opposite direction[s] and you’re not able to decide which way to go, take a break from both attachments. Conflict will automatically resolve. A few months of solitude can save you from [a] lifetime of complications.” --Shunya
Bingley was staying at a London inn when he received a note from Caroline. Both his sisters and Hurst were now back in London and had closed up Netherfield. When he asked why our Caroline spewed forth her pack of lies to convince him that Jane Bennet cared nothing for him and was spoken for by another. When Charles mentioned that he loved Jane and was sure she loved him, Caroline declared that love had nothing to do with it. Miss Bennet was the firstborn and it was her duty. She would save the family and be mistress of Longbourn.
Up next, our own dear Jane: “It’s me. I chose this. I chose all of this—this rock has been waiting for me my entire life. I’ve been moving towards it my whole life.” –Aron Ralston, Between a Rock and a Hard Place
Poor Jane was now caught between her own rock and a hard place. She had been abandoned by Bingley and was now being overlooked by other men because of his rejection of her. She struggled with her confidence as she listened to her mother and Aunt Philips gossip about her failures in the marriage mart. Jane was beginning to feel desperate.
Collins… who was he really? He thought Lady Catherine would be pleased to know her nephew’s business while staying in Meryton. Oh, he was sure she would reward such a person for notifying her of her nephew’s treachery in abandoning her daughter for his low-born Bennet cousin. He was not wrong. Lady Catherine arrived at Longbourn in a high dungeon. Her diatribe of anger and disappointed hopes had no effect on Elizabeth who conducted herself with all the dignity she could muster. She declared and upheld Darcy’s honor that would not allow him to ask for the hand of one if he was already promised to another. Lady Catherine then did the unthinkable and attempted to bribe Elizabeth to break the engagement. Her Ladyship offered an obscene amount of money that was equivalent to many years of income at Longbourn. The cutting words Lady Catherine spewed forth haunted Elizabeth as nothing else could. Her marriage to Darcy would destroy his name and ruin him.
Lady Catherine then stormed Matlock House and was demanding her brother the earl DO SOMETHING. We were then introduced to a favorite character that our author Amy likes to use, Lord Saye. Oh, this guy was a scream. He and his brother, our dear Colonel, were a riot when they were together. When he was on the page you knew something outrageous would be said or would happen. I absolutely adored him.
Georgiana was an emotional wreck after her near elopement with Wickham. She went emo as they say and Darcy wouldn’t let Elizabeth near her. When Elizabeth did finally meet Georgiana, Darcy went emo himself and forbid her to see Georgiana again. In his selfish pride, he actually stated that his sister’s problems were his fault and it should be up to him to fix them. Seriously? Elizabeth had younger sisters and knew that the only thing Georgiana needed was a friend. Soon, the moth was drawn to the flame, and Georgiana and Elizabeth became friends. It was through Elizabeth’s kindness that Georgiana came out of her melancholy. I may have to read this again.
10-20-21
12-27-21 reading it again.
June 20, 2022
This is a delightful and satisfying story that covers the many aspects of the sometimes rocky road to Elizabeth and Darcy's happily ever after. It begins with Caroline's bold attempt to compromise Fitzwilliam Darcy and become mistress of Pemberley. At the same time, Elizabeth Bennet is under extreme pressure from her mother AND her father to marry Mr. Collins, a sacrifice to save her family.
The obvious solution is for Elizabeth and Darcy to announce that they are already engaged to one another. When Mr. Bingley drifts away, heartbroken Jane becomes the sacrificial lamb and is betrothed to Mr. Collins. What follows is a brilliant move by Darcy and his cousins to unravel a puzzling inconsistency in a document discovered in the marriage settlement.
Enough said! I most heartily recommend that you grab this book so that you don't miss a moment of this variation.
38
The obvious solution is for Elizabeth and Darcy to announce that they are already engaged to one another. When Mr. Bingley drifts away, heartbroken Jane becomes the sacrificial lamb and is betrothed to Mr. Collins. What follows is a brilliant move by Darcy and his cousins to unravel a puzzling inconsistency in a document discovered in the marriage settlement.
Enough said! I most heartily recommend that you grab this book so that you don't miss a moment of this variation.
38
January 7, 2025
It‘s a Re-read (or rather this time listening). I rated 5 stars the last time, but I‘ll give it 4 stars this time.
It is really good and a good premise, I liked the book all in all. Though I must confess now there are some points which were annoying to me and I really tried to endured Elizabeth and Darcy.
1. they had a misunderstanding, huge ones.. instead of maybe talking to each other it‘s all forgotten with kisses and their pressences. Talk to your spouse! Not kissing instead of talking.
2. E only wanted to hear what she wanted and assumed she knows D‘s feelings. 🤦♀️
3. D is extremely bossy.
4. I think some of the misunderstandings were still left unexplained. Even in the Epilogue.
Okay good points; I LOVE LORD SAYE! Almost a meaning to rea again only for him.
Stevie Zimmermann is also one of my favorites and always does a wonderful job. Like in this one too.
It is really good and a good premise, I liked the book all in all. Though I must confess now there are some points which were annoying to me and I really tried to endured Elizabeth and Darcy.
1. they had a misunderstanding, huge ones.. instead of maybe talking to each other it‘s all forgotten with kisses and their pressences. Talk to your spouse! Not kissing instead of talking.
2. E only wanted to hear what she wanted and assumed she knows D‘s feelings. 🤦♀️
3. D is extremely bossy.
4. I think some of the misunderstandings were still left unexplained. Even in the Epilogue.
Okay good points; I LOVE LORD SAYE! Almost a meaning to rea again only for him.
Stevie Zimmermann is also one of my favorites and always does a wonderful job. Like in this one too.
October 30, 2022
Darcy and Elizabeth become engaged very early in the story, each seeking to avoid a worse fate—Darcy is nearly entrapped by Caroline Bingley and Elizabeth finds herself being ordered to accept Mr Collins. In the end, Mr Collins is dealt with in a highly original way. Wickham makes several appearances but there is no Lydia/Wickham storyline. Georgiana is much changed after her involvement with Wickham but she improves with Lizzy’s help. I enjoyed the Fitzwilliam relatives, the Earl, his wife, Richard and Saye. The Gardiners have only a brief appearance. The ending was everything it should be. It’s an enjoyable but angst-filled story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2024
Delightful! I have read this as a WIP long time back, so remembered little. I think this was the first work I read with Lord Saye and I do remember enjoying the character a lot. Rereading only made it better.
August 2, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up.
Miss Bingley goes too far, with a bold compromise and a demand that Darcy marry her. In his defense, the first name that comes to his mind is Miss Elizabeth Bennet's, and he declares to Bingley that they are engaged. Then he must face Elizabeth and somehow make her understand why they must marry, and why others at Netherfield already believe they're engaged. She is less pleased by the opportunity than he expects, until she learns that her father expects her to marry Mr. Collins.
A favorite Jane Austen variation author. I enjoyed this one, read it fairly quickly. It has some mystery and intrigue, also has its moments of humor, and a certain amount of comeuppance that I find satisfying.
Miss Bingley goes too far, with a bold compromise and a demand that Darcy marry her. In his defense, the first name that comes to his mind is Miss Elizabeth Bennet's, and he declares to Bingley that they are engaged. Then he must face Elizabeth and somehow make her understand why they must marry, and why others at Netherfield already believe they're engaged. She is less pleased by the opportunity than he expects, until she learns that her father expects her to marry Mr. Collins.
A favorite Jane Austen variation author. I enjoyed this one, read it fairly quickly. It has some mystery and intrigue, also has its moments of humor, and a certain amount of comeuppance that I find satisfying.
October 22, 2021
Oh my, this was good! It starts out by grabbing your attention with a compromise that would be an awful match. And then there’s a little angst. Then things settle down and the story becomes sweet. Elizabeth and Darcy are a little confused but are muddling along ok. And then there’s some angst. And it continues on with delightful characters, entertaining conversations, witty repartee, some sadness, some paybacks, more moments of angst, and ultimately joy. This story is absolutely positively perfect!!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 11, 2021
Wonderful
Honestly I don’t even bother to read the blurb when a new book by Amy D’Orazio comes up I just buy it. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed everything she’s written and posted so far and she just keeps getting better.
Honestly I don’t even bother to read the blurb when a new book by Amy D’Orazio comes up I just buy it. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed everything she’s written and posted so far and she just keeps getting better.
December 21, 2021
Wow! This book is PHENOMENAL! Every time I picked up "So Material a Change", I was whisked back in time, and went on such an emotional journey with this story.
Amy D'Orazio is such an incredible author! Her storytelling is spectacular, and she brilliantly brings to life the story she is telling. Her love and respect for Jane Austen's original novel is extremely clear, and Ms. D'Orazio has created a powerful variation. She seamlessly blends characters from the original novel with some she has created, and I could not put this book down.
This variation explores what might have happened had Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth entered into a "marriage-of-convenience" relationship at first. Caroline Bingley tries to be found in a compromising position with Darcy so he must marry her. However, her plan does not work the way she had hoped, and he announces that he is already engaged to Elizabeth Bennet, even though at this point he is not. Very soon, Elizabeth finds herself needing Darcy as well in order to avoid having to marry someone else, and the two become actually engaged. With wit, twists, turns, heartbreak, love, and so much more along the way, will they find their happily-ever-after with one another? You will just need to read to find out.
I found the development of the relationship between Georgiana and Elizabeth so powerful. Georgiana is going through a very hard depression throughout, but, watching Elizabeth help Georgiana begin to heal is so powerful and moving.
If you enjoy "Pride and Prejudice" variations, I highly recommend this book! It kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. Many moments had me gasping and sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next, and I look forward to reading what Ms. D' Orazio writes next.
Thank you so much to Quills & Quartos Publishing for the review copy of this book, it is incredible! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Please Note: This book deals with heavy subject matter.
Amy D'Orazio is such an incredible author! Her storytelling is spectacular, and she brilliantly brings to life the story she is telling. Her love and respect for Jane Austen's original novel is extremely clear, and Ms. D'Orazio has created a powerful variation. She seamlessly blends characters from the original novel with some she has created, and I could not put this book down.
This variation explores what might have happened had Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth entered into a "marriage-of-convenience" relationship at first. Caroline Bingley tries to be found in a compromising position with Darcy so he must marry her. However, her plan does not work the way she had hoped, and he announces that he is already engaged to Elizabeth Bennet, even though at this point he is not. Very soon, Elizabeth finds herself needing Darcy as well in order to avoid having to marry someone else, and the two become actually engaged. With wit, twists, turns, heartbreak, love, and so much more along the way, will they find their happily-ever-after with one another? You will just need to read to find out.
I found the development of the relationship between Georgiana and Elizabeth so powerful. Georgiana is going through a very hard depression throughout, but, watching Elizabeth help Georgiana begin to heal is so powerful and moving.
If you enjoy "Pride and Prejudice" variations, I highly recommend this book! It kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. Many moments had me gasping and sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next, and I look forward to reading what Ms. D' Orazio writes next.
Thank you so much to Quills & Quartos Publishing for the review copy of this book, it is incredible! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Please Note: This book deals with heavy subject matter.
February 12, 2024
Brilliant book by a brilliant author. I read this several years ago on a JAFF site and LOVED IT!! And I still love it. When Miss Bingley tried to crawl in bed with Darcy he announces her cannot marry her for he as reached an understanding with Miss Elizabeth Bennet
Now all he needs to do in convince Miss Elizabeth that this is true. This is an uphill battle, but Lizzy decides that there is humor to found and she agrees. Only to be hoisted by her own petard when Mr Collins has her avowing the same story.
Now there's a wedding on... and much wackiness and drama must ensue before we get to HEA
Now all he needs to do in convince Miss Elizabeth that this is true. This is an uphill battle, but Lizzy decides that there is humor to found and she agrees. Only to be hoisted by her own petard when Mr Collins has her avowing the same story.
Now there's a wedding on... and much wackiness and drama must ensue before we get to HEA
January 15, 2023
Очень неплохой ��етеллинг, минимум Уикхема, вместо этого плоттвист с мисс Бингли и с Коллинзом
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2022
Great story!
With a very imaginative plot, full of unexpected developments that keeps the pages turning and your attention glued to the tale.
With a very imaginative plot, full of unexpected developments that keeps the pages turning and your attention glued to the tale.
March 10, 2023
Status: Read December 14-16, 2022
via kindle & audible editions
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Edition Read:
So Material a Change
by Amy D'Orazio
Kindle Edition, 412 pages
Published October 11, 2021 by Quills & Quartos Publishing (first published September 11, 2021)
ASIN: B09C8QCSCB
[ kindle unlimited ]
My Library Notes:
So Material a Change
by Amy D'Orazio, Stevie Zimmerman (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 11 pages
Published September 15, 2021 by Quills & Quartos Publishing (first published September 11, 2021)
ASIN: B09G79WZWR
“If the thought of us being destined for one another is what caused you to laugh, then I shall laugh with you. Ours is more a story of mutual desperation than of love.”
Matrimony is the last thing on Elizabeth Bennet’s mind when she arrives at Netherfield Park to tend to her ill sister. When proud Mr. Darcy acts rashly to thwart a compromise and tells her that the entire household believes they are engaged, she dismisses him outright and refuses his offer of marriage.
But more surprises await her at Longbourn. Mr. Collins is ready with an offer of marriage, and it is not only her mother who thinks it a fine match; Mr. Bennet is willing to press the point until Elizabeth makes clear such a connection is impossible - because she has accepted an offer of marriage from Mr. Darcy.
It is an inauspicious beginning, an engagement neither desires, driven to by the machinations of others. Yet what begins as a forced alliance soon changes into something quite different. Will it be enough to lead them into love?
Listening Length: 10 hours and 58 minutes
via kindle & audible editions
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Edition Read:
So Material a Change
by Amy D'Orazio
Kindle Edition, 412 pages
Published October 11, 2021 by Quills & Quartos Publishing (first published September 11, 2021)
ASIN: B09C8QCSCB
[ kindle unlimited ]
My Library Notes:
So Material a Change
by Amy D'Orazio, Stevie Zimmerman (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 11 pages
Published September 15, 2021 by Quills & Quartos Publishing (first published September 11, 2021)
ASIN: B09G79WZWR
“If the thought of us being destined for one another is what caused you to laugh, then I shall laugh with you. Ours is more a story of mutual desperation than of love.”
Matrimony is the last thing on Elizabeth Bennet’s mind when she arrives at Netherfield Park to tend to her ill sister. When proud Mr. Darcy acts rashly to thwart a compromise and tells her that the entire household believes they are engaged, she dismisses him outright and refuses his offer of marriage.
But more surprises await her at Longbourn. Mr. Collins is ready with an offer of marriage, and it is not only her mother who thinks it a fine match; Mr. Bennet is willing to press the point until Elizabeth makes clear such a connection is impossible - because she has accepted an offer of marriage from Mr. Darcy.
It is an inauspicious beginning, an engagement neither desires, driven to by the machinations of others. Yet what begins as a forced alliance soon changes into something quite different. Will it be enough to lead them into love?
Listening Length: 10 hours and 58 minutes
October 11, 2021
Quality prose
I loved this story so much. Miss Bingley attempts to trap Darcy into marriage and Darcy is so appalled he blurts that he is engaged to Elizabeth. Lizzy goes along with it because it must be better than marriage to Collins. But blending into Darcy's world is not easy.
I love Amy D'Orazio's narrator voice and the dialogue is superb. Viscount Saye is a wonderful original character. There is a perfect blend of humor, romance and angst and the plot is perfectly paced.
I loved this story so much. Miss Bingley attempts to trap Darcy into marriage and Darcy is so appalled he blurts that he is engaged to Elizabeth. Lizzy goes along with it because it must be better than marriage to Collins. But blending into Darcy's world is not easy.
I love Amy D'Orazio's narrator voice and the dialogue is superb. Viscount Saye is a wonderful original character. There is a perfect blend of humor, romance and angst and the plot is perfectly paced.
June 22, 2022
Great Story
I loved this story. Loved Saye, he was awesome. The matlocks were a welcome surprise, lady Catherine was her usual mean self! The meanness prize of course goes to miss Bingley, she tried singlehandedly to ruin the lives of four people. I love how Viscount Saye made sure she got her comeuppance!!! Loved the epiloque!
I loved this story. Loved Saye, he was awesome. The matlocks were a welcome surprise, lady Catherine was her usual mean self! The meanness prize of course goes to miss Bingley, she tried singlehandedly to ruin the lives of four people. I love how Viscount Saye made sure she got her comeuppance!!! Loved the epiloque!
November 17, 2021
flowed well..
A solid read from the author, who seems to have a good baseline. The books are all melodramatic and angst-filled, certainly. But they are easy to read and enjoyable.
I might have read this in a different form as it all seemed familiar. I’d hate to think the book was so predictable that none of it is new?
A solid read from the author, who seems to have a good baseline. The books are all melodramatic and angst-filled, certainly. But they are easy to read and enjoyable.
I might have read this in a different form as it all seemed familiar. I’d hate to think the book was so predictable that none of it is new?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews