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Decisions
Pride and Prejudice Regency forced marriage scenario. Mr. Bennet suddenly dies in a carriage accident. Elizabeth is faced with a chance to save her family with a renewed proposal from someone she considered the last man in the world whom she would ever marry.-----------------------------------------------------------------On seeing her, he stood immediately to his feet. “Allow me to help you,” he said. Darcy took the heavy tray from her. Elizabeth cleaned her father’s desk from the books and Darcy put the tray there. Elizabeth was silent as she fixed the tea for him.“Milk and sugar, if I remember correctly,” she said.“Yes, thank you.” He took the cup from her, touching her hand lightly in the process.“I am afraid that we can offer you only a plain cake,” she said apologetically.“It is quite enough, I assure you.”Darcy drank his tea, his dark eyes wandering over the room.“I can see that you are in the process of moving,” he stated the obvious.“Yes, we are,” Elizabeth confirmed. “I am still looking through my father’s personal archive. Mr Collins plans to move here before the end of the summer and my mother is determined to move out before it happens.”“That is perfectly understandable.”They enjoyed their tea in silence. Elizabeth was hoping that the visit would come to an end soon. After what had transpired between them that afternoon at Hunsford, she had not thought to see Mr Darcy ever again. His visit today was utterly unexpected.“I trust that your family is in good health taking into consideration the circumstances,” he said.“They are. We are slowly accustoming ourselves to our changed circumstances. My mother does not admit guests for the time being.”He nodded his head. “Of course. I expected no less.” Elizabeth bowed her head, allowing herself a small smile, hearing relief in his tone and expression. She could easily believe that Mr Darcy was not eager to see Mrs Bennet. “May I ask what are your plans after leaving Longbourn?” he asked.“That is not a secret. My mother owns a house in Meryton which she inherited from her father. It is adequate for us.”“May I ask for some more tea?” he asked.Elizabeth smiled. She refilled his cup.“Thank you,” he said. He took a sip before putting the cup back on the tray. He rose to his feet and began pacing the room, raking his fingers through his hair.Elizabeth watched him from her seat. A feeling of unease filled her heart. What was the true purpose of his visit?“Miss Elizabeth, I cannot be silent. You must allow me to speak freely. I cannot allow you to live in poverty. Neither can I allow myself to live without you.”Elizabeth opened her pink lips, staring up at his towering form, standing over her.“Allow me to resubmit my offer of marriage, Miss Elizabeth,” he said, his features etched with determination and resolve.Elizabeth felt that all the strength momentarily left her body. The teacup which she held in her hands fell onto the carpet, spilling the rest of the tea on her black dress. She watched Darcy, who knelt in front of her, picking up the cup and saucer, which were thankfully not broken.“Have you burned yourself, Miss Elizabeth?” he enquired gently, gazing into her eyes.She shook her head.He sat back on the opposite chair.“I am awaiting your answer,” he reminded her. She cleared her throat. “I am not certain if I understood you correctly, sir,” she spoke weakly.He leaned forward and reached for her hand, encompassing it very gently within his. “I will speak more plainly then. I still love you and wish for you to become my wife.”Elizabeth looked at her hand, lying in his. She shook her head.“It cannot be,” she whispered.“I assure you that I know my mind very well. I beg you to consider my offer once again.”Elizabeth swallowed, looking up at him. “I cannot give you an answer now.”“I understand. May I return tomorrow?” “Yes. No.” She shook her head. “Let us meet at Oakham Mount,” she proposed. “At midday."
232 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2020
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October 1, 2017
Choices are the hinges of destiny. ~Edwin Markham
This is another “marry for the prudent motive” story.
Mr. Bennet has died in a carriage accident this time. The Bennet ladies are preparing to move to a small house Mrs. Bennet has inherited when Mr. Darcy surprises Elizabeth with a renewal of his proposal.
Elizabeth accepts, knowing Darcy will give her Mother and sisters the financial support they need. Darcy leases Purvis Lodge for the Bennets. ODC marries quickly and leaves for London.
There is nothing really wrong with the story but nothing really right about it either. All the happenings have been done before – nothing new.
Life's real name is Choices. ~Terri Guillemets
So choose and write your own story.
Darcy will:
a) Wait without complaining until Elizabeth is ready to consummate the marriage
b) Wait to consummate the marriage but gripe about it
c) Insist on marital rights from the beginning
d) Be jealous of any time Elizabeth spends with another man – especially his cousin
e) All of the above
f) None of the above
Elizabeth will:
a) Fall in love rapidly
b) Stubbornly refuse to fall in love
c) Fall in love but not admit it
d) Get lost in the Pemberley woods
e) Get injured in the Pemberley hills
f) All of the above
g) None of the above
Wickham will:
a) Be truly evil
b) Elope with Lydia
c) Kidnap Georgiana
d) Kidnap Elizabeth
e) Be a really nice guy
f) All of the above
g) None of the above
I feel like the policeman directing traffic from a fender-bender: “Move along folks, nothing to see here.”
The hardest thing to learn in life is which bridge to cross and which to burn. ~David Russell
This is another “marry for the prudent motive” story.
Mr. Bennet has died in a carriage accident this time. The Bennet ladies are preparing to move to a small house Mrs. Bennet has inherited when Mr. Darcy surprises Elizabeth with a renewal of his proposal.
Elizabeth accepts, knowing Darcy will give her Mother and sisters the financial support they need. Darcy leases Purvis Lodge for the Bennets. ODC marries quickly and leaves for London.
There is nothing really wrong with the story but nothing really right about it either. All the happenings have been done before – nothing new.
Life's real name is Choices. ~Terri Guillemets
So choose and write your own story.
Darcy will:
a) Wait without complaining until Elizabeth is ready to consummate the marriage
b) Wait to consummate the marriage but gripe about it
c) Insist on marital rights from the beginning
d) Be jealous of any time Elizabeth spends with another man – especially his cousin
e) All of the above
f) None of the above
Elizabeth will:
a) Fall in love rapidly
b) Stubbornly refuse to fall in love
c) Fall in love but not admit it
d) Get lost in the Pemberley woods
e) Get injured in the Pemberley hills
f) All of the above
g) None of the above
Wickham will:
a) Be truly evil
b) Elope with Lydia
c) Kidnap Georgiana
d) Kidnap Elizabeth
e) Be a really nice guy
f) All of the above
g) None of the above
I feel like the policeman directing traffic from a fender-bender: “Move along folks, nothing to see here.”
The hardest thing to learn in life is which bridge to cross and which to burn. ~David Russell
February 12, 2018
Generally, this is a good story. Elizabeth agrees to a marriage of convenience with Darcy when her family is in crisis. He understands that she doesn't love him at the start and is incredibly patient waiting for her to soften, as she inevitably does.
My major criticism is that when Elizabeth finally realizes and tells Darcy that she loves him, it's curiously understated with very little dramatic impact, considering it should be a major turning point in the story. The author describes bedroom scenes (which are more plentiful than necessary) in greater depth than in that seminal moment of their marital relationship.
My major criticism is that when Elizabeth finally realizes and tells Darcy that she loves him, it's curiously understated with very little dramatic impact, considering it should be a major turning point in the story. The author describes bedroom scenes (which are more plentiful than necessary) in greater depth than in that seminal moment of their marital relationship.
December 3, 2017
As wosedwew said (paraphrased) Been there, done that, got a teeshirt to prove it. Also warning this contains steamy sexual material. Not as much as some other books by the author but more than you would share in a Regency drawing room.
There is some freshness to this story, Mr. Bennet has died in a carriage accident. Lydia hasn't gone to Brighton and Lizzy & the Gardiners haven't gone to Derbyshire. Mrs. Bennet has been left her parents home so they aren't totally living in the hedgerows, which beggars the question way was Mrs. Bennet so obsessed with the Hedgerows if she already had a back up house to go to.
Darcy finds out heads to Meryton and proposes to Lizzy who doesn't love him or really even like him. Now there was a Kent and there was a letter which means that the thing that converted Lizzy to Loving Darcy was Pemberley and not overthinking his letter. But after conferring with Jane re loveless marriage to save the Bennets she accepts his offer.
In the beginning Darcy is pretty nice, he doesn't force her to consummate their marriage until she is ready; they hang out in London and get to know one another. But occasionally douchey Darcy pops up like when Lizzy doesn't tell him where she is going.
Once at Pemberley she and he finally get to the physical side of marriage, Darcy often acts like a spoiled child, Georgiana plays the pianoforte.
There are mysterious crimes, Bingley and Jane can't come to the point. Darcy gets jealous of Col Fitzwilliam [personal aside- I never like irrationally jealous Darcy]
There is a lot that goes on in the book but most of it isn't central to the plot.
There are also several typos in the book that really annoyed me.
There is some freshness to this story, Mr. Bennet has died in a carriage accident. Lydia hasn't gone to Brighton and Lizzy & the Gardiners haven't gone to Derbyshire. Mrs. Bennet has been left her parents home so they aren't totally living in the hedgerows, which beggars the question way was Mrs. Bennet so obsessed with the Hedgerows if she already had a back up house to go to.
Darcy finds out heads to Meryton and proposes to Lizzy who doesn't love him or really even like him. Now there was a Kent and there was a letter which means that the thing that converted Lizzy to Loving Darcy was Pemberley and not overthinking his letter. But after conferring with Jane re loveless marriage to save the Bennets she accepts his offer.
In the beginning Darcy is pretty nice, he doesn't force her to consummate their marriage until she is ready; they hang out in London and get to know one another. But occasionally douchey Darcy pops up like when Lizzy doesn't tell him where she is going.
Once at Pemberley she and he finally get to the physical side of marriage, Darcy often acts like a spoiled child, Georgiana plays the pianoforte.
There are mysterious crimes, Bingley and Jane can't come to the point. Darcy gets jealous of Col Fitzwilliam [personal aside- I never like irrationally jealous Darcy]
There is a lot that goes on in the book but most of it isn't central to the plot.
There are also several typos in the book that really annoyed me.
September 5, 2018
PnP, what if, with a marriage of convenience plot.
Mr Bennet has passed and when Mr Darcy renewed his proposal, Elizabeth felt it was a too good an option to pass...
Time and knowledge improved her opinion of him and we get an HEA. After some horse-theft, a couple pregnancies (one wanted and one unwanted) and a kidnapping. Not overly dramatized though...
Contains mature content.
A pleasurable fast read, 3.5* rounded up to 4.
Mr Bennet has passed and when Mr Darcy renewed his proposal, Elizabeth felt it was a too good an option to pass...
Time and knowledge improved her opinion of him and we get an HEA. After some horse-theft, a couple pregnancies (one wanted and one unwanted) and a kidnapping. Not overly dramatized though...
Contains mature content.
A pleasurable fast read, 3.5* rounded up to 4.
October 1, 2017
I have loved some of OW's books and I can say this book has her flare in it but it felt in many places like pages torn out of her past books. I feel like the author is being pressured to put out more books and in so doing her work reflects it. There were more spelling and ill grammar then I have seen in the past and just the ideas seemed familiar right down to the same wording. I wish I could tell you the exact books but scenes happened and it felt like deja vu. I am surprised in the reviews no one has made mention of this. Several reviews talk about reading other books by her and nothing. The saving of what was left was the ability Wegner had in building that slow gradual bonding between D&E.
Darcy learns that Mr. Bennet has died and arrives at Longbourn 3 months after his death. The family is packing up to be moved out before Mr. Collins comes to claim his new house. Elizabeth feels obligated to marry Darcy to save her family. She resents him for breaking up Jane and Mr. Bingley but knows Wickham's character. Darcy still comes off a bit proud as he belittles Lizzy's family while professing his love and loyalty to her. I really did appreciate the minimal angst as well as her side characters. Drew was Lizzy's maid and I liked her and her son Tommy but as much time that was vested in bringing her story out, her story was left incomplete. Darcy's valet also had some light shed on what he believed was proper but nothing more came of that. Not a big deal but I was surprised no more came from that. Also there is Lizzy herself. I thought she was written childish upon seeing an old school mate (an Earl). She openly gawks at him and makes comment that he is the most attractive man she has ever saw. This said as she sits next to her husband. I just felt I was reading of Lydia not Lizzy. She even thinks so.
There are a few other things that did show Lizzy's sensibilities and maturity concerning a young maid and her unborn child but I think I would have liked to see Lizzy address Darcy about his relationships before her. I know that has been done too but I would have liked to see a possessive/ jealous Lizzy but instead of that we only see that one sided. Darcy becomes jealous seeing Lizzy and his cousin together. The fact that their feelings are not the same and Darcy feels she would have chose the colonel if she had had the choice. I really loved how the author had the two approach the discord between them. I hope that more time and thought go into her next book. I do get excited to see new books come out by Wegner but I hate feeling like I've read this before. I will say though she delivered in developing a believable love match for the length of the book. I've complained about not much depth because of the length but this one hit the mark for me. We only get filled in about Jane and Bingley's marriage. For Darcy starting out stiff and prideful by the end he proved to me how much he was willing to do for Lizzy and that just made my heart soar. Enjoy!
Darcy learns that Mr. Bennet has died and arrives at Longbourn 3 months after his death. The family is packing up to be moved out before Mr. Collins comes to claim his new house. Elizabeth feels obligated to marry Darcy to save her family. She resents him for breaking up Jane and Mr. Bingley but knows Wickham's character. Darcy still comes off a bit proud as he belittles Lizzy's family while professing his love and loyalty to her. I really did appreciate the minimal angst as well as her side characters. Drew was Lizzy's maid and I liked her and her son Tommy but as much time that was vested in bringing her story out, her story was left incomplete. Darcy's valet also had some light shed on what he believed was proper but nothing more came of that. Not a big deal but I was surprised no more came from that. Also there is Lizzy herself. I thought she was written childish upon seeing an old school mate (an Earl). She openly gawks at him and makes comment that he is the most attractive man she has ever saw. This said as she sits next to her husband. I just felt I was reading of Lydia not Lizzy. She even thinks so.
There are a few other things that did show Lizzy's sensibilities and maturity concerning a young maid and her unborn child but I think I would have liked to see Lizzy address Darcy about his relationships before her. I know that has been done too but I would have liked to see a possessive/ jealous Lizzy but instead of that we only see that one sided. Darcy becomes jealous seeing Lizzy and his cousin together. The fact that their feelings are not the same and Darcy feels she would have chose the colonel if she had had the choice. I really loved how the author had the two approach the discord between them. I hope that more time and thought go into her next book. I do get excited to see new books come out by Wegner but I hate feeling like I've read this before. I will say though she delivered in developing a believable love match for the length of the book. I've complained about not much depth because of the length but this one hit the mark for me. We only get filled in about Jane and Bingley's marriage. For Darcy starting out stiff and prideful by the end he proved to me how much he was willing to do for Lizzy and that just made my heart soar. Enjoy!
March 19, 2018
In this story, Mr Darcy returns to Longbourn 3 months after the death of Mr Bennet. He had not seen Elizabeth since his proposal at Huntsford. The family are not starving in the hedgerows as Mrs Bennet inherited a house from her grandparents, however, Elizabeth feels duty bound to accept him.
I didn't really enjoy this book. Darcy is over bearing, bossy, arrogant and a bit of a bully. He's sulky, jealous and moody. Elizabeth isn't also particularly likeable. Her feelings towards him change when they start having a physical relationship which seemed a bit shallow to me. There is a lot of sex in this book, which is not to everyone's taste and in my opinion was at the expense of substance. There are a lot of typing errors and elements of modern language that are distracting. Jane's relationship (or lack of) with Mr Bingley is mentioned but only in passing, finally resolved in a sentence in the Epilogue.
This book is an easy read and, without challenging some of the less developed ideas is okay. It's not one I'd read again.
I didn't really enjoy this book. Darcy is over bearing, bossy, arrogant and a bit of a bully. He's sulky, jealous and moody. Elizabeth isn't also particularly likeable. Her feelings towards him change when they start having a physical relationship which seemed a bit shallow to me. There is a lot of sex in this book, which is not to everyone's taste and in my opinion was at the expense of substance. There are a lot of typing errors and elements of modern language that are distracting. Jane's relationship (or lack of) with Mr Bingley is mentioned but only in passing, finally resolved in a sentence in the Epilogue.
This book is an easy read and, without challenging some of the less developed ideas is okay. It's not one I'd read again.
December 1, 2017
I agree with my friends Leslie and Rose. Please read their reviews. This wasn't bad but it wasn't great either. There were some typos and grammatical issues which i've come to expect from this author. My main problem is that this book didn't know what it wanted to be. Was it an angst almost forced marriage where we wait to see if Elizabeth will come to love Darcy. Was it an adventure where something happens to the main characters and we have to see how it resolves or if they are recovered? I felt like this book just could not make up its mind. I really enjoyed some of the sub plots but felt they were never fully fleshed out or resolved. The ending came abrupt and I felt like the author just got tired of writing. So, it's Meh, for me. Not bad, enjoyed it but can't necessarily recommend it over others. I've enjoyed other books by this author more.
March 19, 2023
3.5 rounded to four. This story was like Jane Bennet. At times amusing, at times interesting but mostly calm. I liked this story, but it was not a book to engage you or emote you but it will definitely not bore you but will keep you entertained.
June 3, 2022
A bit anti-climactic
In this story, Mr Bennet has died and Darcy offers marriage again. Elizabeth accepts for prudent motives and finds out that it is not so bad to be married to a rich handsome man who loves you.
It is not a bad book, just somewhat anti-climactic. Everything happens with very little fanfare. The writing style is a little choppy sometimes, with a lot of main sentences that could do with a bit more conjoining of thoughts. It contains scenes of sexual nature and a few editing misses.
In this story, Mr Bennet has died and Darcy offers marriage again. Elizabeth accepts for prudent motives and finds out that it is not so bad to be married to a rich handsome man who loves you.
It is not a bad book, just somewhat anti-climactic. Everything happens with very little fanfare. The writing style is a little choppy sometimes, with a lot of main sentences that could do with a bit more conjoining of thoughts. It contains scenes of sexual nature and a few editing misses.
June 3, 2018
The Hunsford proposal is in the past but now Mr Bennet has died. Several months later Darcy appears and offers marriage to Elizabeth, knowing that she does not care for him. I didn't really care much for either of the main characters, and would have liked more about the minor characters, especially the Earl of Northumberland.
But it was a quick and easy read
But it was a quick and easy read
February 16, 2018
Like others have said...this book does not rank as one of this author's best. It is not a FMS but rather a marriage in which Darcy gets the woman he loves due to her greatly reduced circumstances upon the death of her father. He knows she doesn't love him as this is after the Hunsford proposal but hopes to win her love. Ironically this author slides over the point in the story when Elizabeth "admits" she loves Darcy. Sadly I wanted so much more to be made about that fact. He has not demanded his husbandly rights but allows her to set the pace. He does have some times when he seems to demand certain things but in general he respects her and allows her a lot of freedom. He also shows a jealous side when two different men pay attention to her.
Some attention is given to matters concerning servants and the theft of some horses. Elizabeth takes over the role of Mistress of Pemberley rather smoothly.
The author saves the greatest angst until close to the end and makes short work of that. Two people who are disgruntled with treatment at Darcy's hands act together to take away Darcy's happiness...unless he pays!
We don't hear much about the rest of the Bennet family except for Jane. However as Elizabeth visits her father's grave with her young son and places flowers on his grave I was crying.
Some attention is given to matters concerning servants and the theft of some horses. Elizabeth takes over the role of Mistress of Pemberley rather smoothly.
The author saves the greatest angst until close to the end and makes short work of that. Two people who are disgruntled with treatment at Darcy's hands act together to take away Darcy's happiness...unless he pays!
We don't hear much about the rest of the Bennet family except for Jane. However as Elizabeth visits her father's grave with her young son and places flowers on his grave I was crying.
September 10, 2018
I usually take sometime after finishing a book to start thinking on a review.
However, when I came back to write about Decisions , what gave me pause was that I had to actually TRY and remember the plot. As other reviewers have said before - and much more efficiently than me - this is a “been there done that” type of story. Low angst, forced married scenario, with some common places twists and turns. It was, all in all, not remarkable, but still a very comfortable read.
As it happens with this author, I had some parts that I loved and others that I thought completely out of place. The crimes on Darcy’s stables and the developments with the culprit where, maybe predictable, but still very nicely done.
It was the last scene though, with Lizzy and her son besides her father grave that really touched me. As Sheila put, it brought tears to my eyes as well. A very beautiful moment.
However, when I came back to write about Decisions , what gave me pause was that I had to actually TRY and remember the plot. As other reviewers have said before - and much more efficiently than me - this is a “been there done that” type of story. Low angst, forced married scenario, with some common places twists and turns. It was, all in all, not remarkable, but still a very comfortable read.
As it happens with this author, I had some parts that I loved and others that I thought completely out of place. The crimes on Darcy’s stables and the developments with the culprit where, maybe predictable, but still very nicely done.
It was the last scene though, with Lizzy and her son besides her father grave that really touched me. As Sheila put, it brought tears to my eyes as well. A very beautiful moment.
February 4, 2026
3.5* reread. A more detached novel than I remember her others. There's potential here with a Mercenary Lizzy (and Darcy knows it, but doesn't quite know the depth of it) and bit of a floundering Darcy – I've seen reviews that has describes him as douchey... I didn't see it that way. He's doing his best, with very little help from Lizzy who is.. well Lizzy – immature and stubbornly prejudiced. Dary's not without fault, but he is only human afterall and for the times, 1812, he's pretty progressive I think.
September 28, 2017
This was a review of some of the other novels I have read. Marriage out of necessity due to a death, jealousy of a spouse, pouting, kidnapping for revenge and money however I think with a few adaptions here and there and some depth, this would have become a much better novel. I didn't mind spending my leisure time reading it.
April 20, 2024
Not terrible but not sigh-worthy either.
October 14, 2022
This story is similar to other ones that I have read from this author but has some differences.
This is after Hunsford. Mr Bennet has died some months before. Lizzy didn't go to Derbyshire with the Gardiners and Lydia didn't get to go to Brighton either, so the elopement didn't happen.
The family is not quite in the hedgerows because grandfather Gardiner left the Meryton house to Mrs Bennet, so all the family will relocate there. Lydia has been living with the Gardiners since Mr Bennet's passing due to her awful behaviour, so they hope to help straight her a bit.
We also meet a new character, Mary Drew, Elizabeth's new lady's maid, and her son. There is also her own love story.
When the Bennet ladies are preparing to move to Meryton (Mr Collins is coming to take possession of his inheritance), Mr Darcy comes to pay his respects to the family and resubmit his offer of marriage to Lizzy. She feels put on the spot because even if they have a place to live, they are still in reduced circumstances so she is obliged to accept his offer.
He is not as reformed as Mr Darcy from canon at this stage was, and has a bit of his pride and disdain left. At the beginning, he just commands Lizzy and doesn't ask for her opinion. Instead of spending time with Lizzy and wooing her into liking him, he spends most of their engagement in London, awaiting the wedding day. He still comments on the unsuitability of her connections and when she does something that displeases him, he treats her like his young sister instead of his equal. Lizzy has to put boundaries to this controlling behaviour and is partially successful.
I think the main difference is that this Mr Darcy is aware that Elizabeth does not love him and that he is taking advantage of her to marry him. She doesn't hate him but doesn't feel more like canon Lizzy does at Pemberley. They talk about it before she marries him and so, when he sees her reluctance in the wedding night, he is willing to wait for her to come to him of her own accord and at her own time, which makes him much more superior than other versions of Mr Darcy that this author has written when he is a real ass.
This Mr Darcy, though, is not without fault, and because he is aware that Lizzy doesn't feel for him as much as he, it makes him insecure, so there is a big misunderstanding during Christmas in Matlock, that drives a wedge between them. What I don't like is that, instead of speaking to her, he sulks like a child, so even if he comes back to her for a night of intimacy, she has to come to speak to him and clear the air.
Anyway, over all it is a good story. There is some background mystery and gossip by some staff at Pemberley, some kinky stuff going on in the stables (not D and E), some missing horses, and some more drama (some Wickham drama included), but there is a HEA and an Elizabeth that expresses her love to her husband.
There are though, some things that are sort of not finished, like the conflict of Mr Clayton and Drew about Elizabeth sleeping in Fitzwilliam's bedroom, what happened with Colonel Fitzwilliam and who did he marry? Did the earl come back to court Georgiana? And so on. I would have liked a longer epilogue.
There are some mixed up pronouns, some missing words and some spelling mistakes but in my case it didn't stop me from reading the story. but it needs a bit more proofreading.
Be warned! This book contains intimate moments, but they are important to their story.
I recommend the story. 3.5- 4 stars for Darcy being a bit nicer in this one, especially after 60% of the story.
This is after Hunsford. Mr Bennet has died some months before. Lizzy didn't go to Derbyshire with the Gardiners and Lydia didn't get to go to Brighton either, so the elopement didn't happen.
The family is not quite in the hedgerows because grandfather Gardiner left the Meryton house to Mrs Bennet, so all the family will relocate there. Lydia has been living with the Gardiners since Mr Bennet's passing due to her awful behaviour, so they hope to help straight her a bit.
We also meet a new character, Mary Drew, Elizabeth's new lady's maid, and her son. There is also her own love story.
When the Bennet ladies are preparing to move to Meryton (Mr Collins is coming to take possession of his inheritance), Mr Darcy comes to pay his respects to the family and resubmit his offer of marriage to Lizzy. She feels put on the spot because even if they have a place to live, they are still in reduced circumstances so she is obliged to accept his offer.
He is not as reformed as Mr Darcy from canon at this stage was, and has a bit of his pride and disdain left. At the beginning, he just commands Lizzy and doesn't ask for her opinion. Instead of spending time with Lizzy and wooing her into liking him, he spends most of their engagement in London, awaiting the wedding day. He still comments on the unsuitability of her connections and when she does something that displeases him, he treats her like his young sister instead of his equal. Lizzy has to put boundaries to this controlling behaviour and is partially successful.
I think the main difference is that this Mr Darcy is aware that Elizabeth does not love him and that he is taking advantage of her to marry him. She doesn't hate him but doesn't feel more like canon Lizzy does at Pemberley. They talk about it before she marries him and so, when he sees her reluctance in the wedding night, he is willing to wait for her to come to him of her own accord and at her own time, which makes him much more superior than other versions of Mr Darcy that this author has written when he is a real ass.
This Mr Darcy, though, is not without fault, and because he is aware that Lizzy doesn't feel for him as much as he, it makes him insecure, so there is a big misunderstanding during Christmas in Matlock, that drives a wedge between them. What I don't like is that, instead of speaking to her, he sulks like a child, so even if he comes back to her for a night of intimacy, she has to come to speak to him and clear the air.
Anyway, over all it is a good story. There is some background mystery and gossip by some staff at Pemberley, some kinky stuff going on in the stables (not D and E), some missing horses, and some more drama (some Wickham drama included), but there is a HEA and an Elizabeth that expresses her love to her husband.
There are though, some things that are sort of not finished, like the conflict of Mr Clayton and Drew about Elizabeth sleeping in Fitzwilliam's bedroom, what happened with Colonel Fitzwilliam and who did he marry? Did the earl come back to court Georgiana? And so on. I would have liked a longer epilogue.
There are some mixed up pronouns, some missing words and some spelling mistakes but in my case it didn't stop me from reading the story. but it needs a bit more proofreading.
Be warned! This book contains intimate moments, but they are important to their story.
I recommend the story. 3.5- 4 stars for Darcy being a bit nicer in this one, especially after 60% of the story.
September 23, 2018
This is an ambitious piece. It begins with Mr. Bennet's death and carries us through the first year of their marriage. We meet a variety of new characters not found in the original "Pride and Prejudice." Events are added, which are not part of the literary canon. That is not a criticism. I read many books which do not follow canon, but doing so should be noted.
The book requires much closer editing. For example,
"Her was dressed in a great coat"
"stood with her back to her"
"He lifted his hand to her lips"
"He felt his eyes on her person"
"women have been throwing himself a him"
"the moment her realized"
"Drew is the another."
"He thinks highly very of you."
"She could not reaffirm her of his love."
"Darcy marched him."
Etc.
Historically, an earl would not be referred to as "Mr. Percy."
Errors occurred in infinitives "to even mention," "to ever talk," etc.
"Stared at one another" is not correct. "One another" is for 3 or more people. The correct use is "each other," meaning 2 people.
The book switches out of the point of view of either the hero or heroine in Chapters 17 and 19.
The book requires much closer editing. For example,
"Her was dressed in a great coat"
"stood with her back to her"
"He lifted his hand to her lips"
"He felt his eyes on her person"
"women have been throwing himself a him"
"the moment her realized"
"Drew is the another."
"He thinks highly very of you."
"She could not reaffirm her of his love."
"Darcy marched him."
Etc.
Historically, an earl would not be referred to as "Mr. Percy."
Errors occurred in infinitives "to even mention," "to ever talk," etc.
"Stared at one another" is not correct. "One another" is for 3 or more people. The correct use is "each other," meaning 2 people.
The book switches out of the point of view of either the hero or heroine in Chapters 17 and 19.
November 6, 2017
Premise was good. Execution was mediocre, although it wasn't an expensive book, so some leeway is warranted. There were editing errors (grammar, punctuation) that were irritating. Overall, it was merely OK. There are much better JAFF versions of this type of story out there.
For one thing, it took Elizabeth a long time to become attracted to Darcy, even after they were married, which is kind of dumb. He's rich, he's considerate, and he's in love with her. As a result, the sex scenes felt a little rapey at times (you don't start having sex with someone while they are asleep). Darcy goes around like a sad sack a lot of the time because she doesn't yet love him. I think that's unrealistic, honestly.
In the original P&P, sparks fly when they are together. She's clueless that he likes her, but once she's aware of it, she is totally affected by him whenever they are together. It's just all out of tune here as a result.
For one thing, it took Elizabeth a long time to become attracted to Darcy, even after they were married, which is kind of dumb. He's rich, he's considerate, and he's in love with her. As a result, the sex scenes felt a little rapey at times (you don't start having sex with someone while they are asleep). Darcy goes around like a sad sack a lot of the time because she doesn't yet love him. I think that's unrealistic, honestly.
In the original P&P, sparks fly when they are together. She's clueless that he likes her, but once she's aware of it, she is totally affected by him whenever they are together. It's just all out of tune here as a result.
September 28, 2019
Good book but...
I really enjoyed this book. I enjoy variation novels over the popular novellas and novelties right now. This book has a believability in its slower pace for most of the novel. That said, the last couple chapters saw the pace suddenly change leaving me as the reader to assume either she lost interest in her story, lost her inspirational creativity regarding her story toward the end, or was just for one reason or another in a hurry to get it published. Good book overall but wish the end pace matched the beginning and middle
I really enjoyed this book. I enjoy variation novels over the popular novellas and novelties right now. This book has a believability in its slower pace for most of the novel. That said, the last couple chapters saw the pace suddenly change leaving me as the reader to assume either she lost interest in her story, lost her inspirational creativity regarding her story toward the end, or was just for one reason or another in a hurry to get it published. Good book overall but wish the end pace matched the beginning and middle
February 3, 2020
Different scenario
Mr Darcy came back to help reduce Elizabeth. Elizabeth decided to let go of anger and agree to the terms of agreement with Mr. Darcy. While new scenarios within this book. Few new characters, some old characters, and same villains in book. Great Storyline and highly reccomend to read
Mr Darcy came back to help reduce Elizabeth. Elizabeth decided to let go of anger and agree to the terms of agreement with Mr. Darcy. While new scenarios within this book. Few new characters, some old characters, and same villains in book. Great Storyline and highly reccomend to read
October 4, 2017
Oh yes!
To stay I loved this book is an understatement. I loved the way it is written and I would add that the author is well back to her earlier good form, as I enjoyed all of her earlier books. I loved it so much I will forgive the few Americanisms. Candy indeed!
To stay I loved this book is an understatement. I loved the way it is written and I would add that the author is well back to her earlier good form, as I enjoyed all of her earlier books. I loved it so much I will forgive the few Americanisms. Candy indeed!
September 27, 2017
Great book
Such a great variation. Kept my interest the whole time. Story that truly and mostly revolved around Lizzy and Darcy.
Such a great variation. Kept my interest the whole time. Story that truly and mostly revolved around Lizzy and Darcy.
October 21, 2017
This version was just okay for me. I didn't care for Darcy throughout the whole book. He was still prideful and very autocratic.
December 14, 2017
Good read
A sweet story variation of our beloved Elizabeth and Darcy. A few loose ends and grammatical difficulties, but still a well-written story. Don't miss it!
A sweet story variation of our beloved Elizabeth and Darcy. A few loose ends and grammatical difficulties, but still a well-written story. Don't miss it!
April 27, 2018
Good
I enjoyed this book glad the Darcys had lasting love and story went on into the first child's birth. Lydia was not a fool this time.
I enjoyed this book glad the Darcys had lasting love and story went on into the first child's birth. Lydia was not a fool this time.
November 14, 2019
Although there are quite a few editing errors, the story was very good overall.
May 31, 2023
Mr. Bennet is killed in a carriage accident. The only way Darcy can help Lizzy and her family financially is to marry her. He comes to Longbourn afterwards to renew his offer
October 4, 2017
Loose Ends
The development of Darcy and Elizabeth's love and devotion was good, but no closure for too many characters. The fate of the Earl, Georgiana, Mrs. B. and daughters, Mrs. Drew, etc. is unknown-could have been a 5 star variation with additional info for these characters.
The development of Darcy and Elizabeth's love and devotion was good, but no closure for too many characters. The fate of the Earl, Georgiana, Mrs. B. and daughters, Mrs. Drew, etc. is unknown-could have been a 5 star variation with additional info for these characters.
May 26, 2025
Really interesting premise, but Darcy is petty and controlling rather than caring
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