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Relations Such As These
What if Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet met before the Meryton assembly while touring the Netherfield estate? What if his relations were just as questionable as hers? Based upon Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Relations Such As These explores the possibilities of what might have happened had the proud Mr. Darcy met Elizabeth Bennet under different circumstances. Would he act differently, or would he maintain his haughty demeanor? Furthermore, what if his relations were less than desirable compared to hers? Relations explores a scenario that ensues when the formidable Mr. Darcy meets the beguiling Elizabeth Bennet while touring Netherfield Park with his friend Charles Bingley, and his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam. What follows is a series of shocking revelations about the conduct of his family members, causing him to reconsider how unfortunate hers really are and how fortunate he would be to receive her hand in marriage.
428 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2009
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
July 18, 2022
This story is no longer on Amazon in the Kindle version but is available at Meryton Reading Room
Sadieo
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Sadieo
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November 8, 2018
http://www.meryton.com/mrr/sadieo/sad...
Rating: MA: mature audience due to scenes and language of a mature nature.
“Unfortunately, some family members are so psychotic that no matter how hard you try to forge a healthy relationship, nothing will help. Now that you’re an adult, take refuge in the fact that some things are beyond your control. You owe it to yourself to steer clear of people who are harmful to your health.” –Andrea Lavinthal
We have the Fitzwilliam family. Poor Darcy, with relatives like these, he doesn’t need enemies. His uncle, Lord Matlock, is in league with Lady Catherine in wanting-no-insisting that Darcy marry his cousin Anne de Bourgh. Of course, this will benefit his agenda for wealth and connections. He always has a plan in the works.
Lady Catherine is, well, Lady Catherine. She has kept a secret from the family that will blow up in her face and cause an uproar the likes of which she has never known. Nothing is to be overlooked as she uses her wealth and power to forward her agenda—gaining access to Pemberley through Darcy’s marriage to her Anne.
Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam has his own problems that unfolds throughout the story. His eye is on a pair of fine eyes that he saw while in Hertfordshire arranging for the quartering of the militia. His story is a sad one as he gets caught up in his feelings regarding his family’s machinations and his life as a second son with limited funds. His resentment of his brother, the Viscount, in his determination to destroy the family’s good name and reputation. And his jealousy over his cousin/brother Darcy. Poor guy simply cannot catch a break. That secret, that Lady Catherine held for so long, nearly broke him. I was stunned at her audacity. That woman.
Viscount James, Richard’s elder brother and heir to the earldom, is a cad, rake, scoundrel and gamester [a bad gamester] of the first order. His profligacy nearly bankrupted the earldom and destroyed their good name with amoral behavior that will stager the mind. His debts are to a powerful criminal Lord that will not take no for an answer. His father, Lord Matlock, is furious with his heir’s behavior and is working in full damage control mode. Lord James is on a fast track to trouble and has no compunction in throwing his wealthy cousin Darcy under the carriage if it would relieve his situation. He also has plans for a certain pair of fine eyes that Darcy has gracing his arm.
“If a man’s character is to be abused, say what you will, there’s nobody like a relative to do the business.” –William Makepeace Thackeray, Vanity Fair
Charles Bingley is not beyond having family problems himself. His sister Caroline is completely out of control. La! That woman has no shame and is bent on marriage if she has to manage things herself. She is determined to interfere with Charles and his courtship with Jane and to further her own quest for Darcy. Things take a turn I’ve not seen before. It was crazy.
This story was a roller-coaster ride from beginning to end. It was like how many different obstacles can be thrown at our characters. The OOC [out of character] behavior was over the top even for me. I was stunned and surprised that Darcy was even sane. I enjoyed it but I felt that plausibility was strained to the limits.
Rating: MA: mature audience due to scenes and language of a mature nature.
“Unfortunately, some family members are so psychotic that no matter how hard you try to forge a healthy relationship, nothing will help. Now that you’re an adult, take refuge in the fact that some things are beyond your control. You owe it to yourself to steer clear of people who are harmful to your health.” –Andrea Lavinthal
We have the Fitzwilliam family. Poor Darcy, with relatives like these, he doesn’t need enemies. His uncle, Lord Matlock, is in league with Lady Catherine in wanting-no-insisting that Darcy marry his cousin Anne de Bourgh. Of course, this will benefit his agenda for wealth and connections. He always has a plan in the works.
Lady Catherine is, well, Lady Catherine. She has kept a secret from the family that will blow up in her face and cause an uproar the likes of which she has never known. Nothing is to be overlooked as she uses her wealth and power to forward her agenda—gaining access to Pemberley through Darcy’s marriage to her Anne.
Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam has his own problems that unfolds throughout the story. His eye is on a pair of fine eyes that he saw while in Hertfordshire arranging for the quartering of the militia. His story is a sad one as he gets caught up in his feelings regarding his family’s machinations and his life as a second son with limited funds. His resentment of his brother, the Viscount, in his determination to destroy the family’s good name and reputation. And his jealousy over his cousin/brother Darcy. Poor guy simply cannot catch a break. That secret, that Lady Catherine held for so long, nearly broke him. I was stunned at her audacity. That woman.
Viscount James, Richard’s elder brother and heir to the earldom, is a cad, rake, scoundrel and gamester [a bad gamester] of the first order. His profligacy nearly bankrupted the earldom and destroyed their good name with amoral behavior that will stager the mind. His debts are to a powerful criminal Lord that will not take no for an answer. His father, Lord Matlock, is furious with his heir’s behavior and is working in full damage control mode. Lord James is on a fast track to trouble and has no compunction in throwing his wealthy cousin Darcy under the carriage if it would relieve his situation. He also has plans for a certain pair of fine eyes that Darcy has gracing his arm.
“If a man’s character is to be abused, say what you will, there’s nobody like a relative to do the business.” –William Makepeace Thackeray, Vanity Fair
Charles Bingley is not beyond having family problems himself. His sister Caroline is completely out of control. La! That woman has no shame and is bent on marriage if she has to manage things herself. She is determined to interfere with Charles and his courtship with Jane and to further her own quest for Darcy. Things take a turn I’ve not seen before. It was crazy.
This story was a roller-coaster ride from beginning to end. It was like how many different obstacles can be thrown at our characters. The OOC [out of character] behavior was over the top even for me. I was stunned and surprised that Darcy was even sane. I enjoyed it but I felt that plausibility was strained to the limits.
October 3, 2018
It took me a few chapters until I realised I have read this before...
But as it is such an engaging story, I opted to read it through.
The Colonel accompanied Darcy on his trip to Netherfield in this story and a rump in the pond with the two cousins and Mr Bingley are observed by a local lady. I have softspot for skinny dipping scenes (blush) and this was fabulously done...
The story deviated from canon from the beginning and although there was an insult of sorts, it was not at the assembly. The misunderstandings between ODC came more from gossip and rumours of a more vicious nature.
There differences was sorted out in a satisfying way and not dragged out by a "stupid Lizzy", heartily appreciate that. Although Elizabeth was a tad insecure, Darcy was patient and they were both passionate...
The relatives was an entirely different matter and they caused a whole lot of trouble for ODC. Several villains, half-villains and opposition to the match could be had from that side.
ODC eventually anticipated their wedding vows which I am usually not fond off but it had a pleasant side effect. Namely, watching Darcy squirm under Mr Bennet. It must be my evil streak but I find that highly entertaining.
Ends in a very informative epilogue.
Recommend
But as it is such an engaging story, I opted to read it through.
The Colonel accompanied Darcy on his trip to Netherfield in this story and a rump in the pond with the two cousins and Mr Bingley are observed by a local lady. I have softspot for skinny dipping scenes (blush) and this was fabulously done...
The story deviated from canon from the beginning and although there was an insult of sorts, it was not at the assembly. The misunderstandings between ODC came more from gossip and rumours of a more vicious nature.
There differences was sorted out in a satisfying way and not dragged out by a "stupid Lizzy", heartily appreciate that. Although Elizabeth was a tad insecure, Darcy was patient and they were both passionate...
The relatives was an entirely different matter and they caused a whole lot of trouble for ODC. Several villains, half-villains and opposition to the match could be had from that side.
ODC eventually anticipated their wedding vows which I am usually not fond off but it had a pleasant side effect. Namely, watching Darcy squirm under Mr Bennet. It must be my evil streak but I find that highly entertaining.
Ends in a very informative epilogue.
Recommend
April 11, 2016
This "What If Story" would have easily been four stars on the plot and my enjoyment of it alone; however, I could not look past the editing mistakes. Whole words were left out that were important to the meaning of the sentences. The author had Mr. Darcy telling Colonel Fitzwilliam of his engagement, as if it were the first time, three different times. It seemed as if the author forgot what she had just previously written in the last chapter.
The most frequent and noticeable mistake was the use of quotations, or in this case, the lack thereof. This book consisted of a lot of dialogue and most of it was just in the paragraphs with no quotations or any other indication that a conversation was going on. This made things a little difficult.
Once I adjusted, this story was very entertaining. I did not want to put it down. I just do not understand someone with the talent and imagination (and who took the time) to write a book this enjoyable then would be so careless regarding the editing.
The most frequent and noticeable mistake was the use of quotations, or in this case, the lack thereof. This book consisted of a lot of dialogue and most of it was just in the paragraphs with no quotations or any other indication that a conversation was going on. This made things a little difficult.
Once I adjusted, this story was very entertaining. I did not want to put it down. I just do not understand someone with the talent and imagination (and who took the time) to write a book this enjoyable then would be so careless regarding the editing.
February 1, 2015
I enjoyed reading this story, to read someone else's "what-if" contribution to P&P. I enjoyed this story for entertainment value. I loved this E&D, I felt that Ms O'Brien captured the essence of their characters the way Jane Austen herself wrote them. It was nice to see others beside Wickham as the interference, after awhile he gets boring. Though I do have to say I am not a fan of Col Fitzwilliam being such a flirt with Elizabeth.
Though I am not an English major, there were a lot of editing issues that should have been fixed, some where more annoyingly pronounced than others. I know from reading some of the reviews some of the readers took offense to premarital relations, but I am not so fastidious since they couples eventually do marry.
Overall I would recommend this book to any JAFFer, though you will have to look over the grammatical errors.
Though I am not an English major, there were a lot of editing issues that should have been fixed, some where more annoyingly pronounced than others. I know from reading some of the reviews some of the readers took offense to premarital relations, but I am not so fastidious since they couples eventually do marry.
Overall I would recommend this book to any JAFFer, though you will have to look over the grammatical errors.
January 6, 2025
English is not my first language, so I'm sorry for any possible mistakes.
It's a long book, with many plots e much misunderstandings. It is also not in accord with the behaviors expected in regency era, you will need to have an open mind.
Both families are awful, for diferents causes, and It ends up getting tiring to read so many interruptions. Some members of Darcy's family are evil (Lord and Lady Fitzwilliam excluded, they are only a little lenients, Colonel is an womanizer and took a fancy for Lizzy). For Elizabeth, they are like always, ignoring what is proper, even our couple break property antecipating they vows, as does Jane and Bingley and even Mary.
Caroline is ridiculous, and deserved a better set down, despite that her punishment is for life, she got light.
Lady C. is disillusioned.
It's a long book, with many plots e much misunderstandings. It is also not in accord with the behaviors expected in regency era, you will need to have an open mind.
Both families are awful, for diferents causes, and It ends up getting tiring to read so many interruptions. Some members of Darcy's family are evil (Lord and Lady Fitzwilliam excluded, they are only a little lenients, Colonel is an womanizer and took a fancy for Lizzy). For Elizabeth, they are like always, ignoring what is proper, even our couple break property antecipating they vows, as does Jane and Bingley and even Mary.
Caroline is ridiculous, and deserved a better set down, despite that her punishment is for life, she got light.
Lady C. is disillusioned.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2024
With family like this, who would need enemies? Fighting for the one you love with all your heart and mind works. They meet a little differently, but still had issues plaguing their relationship.
This story will enthrall you from beginning to end. The emotional impact is throughput the story. It does have funny situations and a great many details that keep you turning the pages.
I love how Darcy and Elizabeth along with Bingley and Jane stick together throughout the story. Definitely has many “bad” or “mean” characters that don’t know when to quit.
Definitely loved the ending.
Highly recommend to mature readers (adult content and details)
This story will enthrall you from beginning to end. The emotional impact is throughput the story. It does have funny situations and a great many details that keep you turning the pages.
I love how Darcy and Elizabeth along with Bingley and Jane stick together throughout the story. Definitely has many “bad” or “mean” characters that don’t know when to quit.
Definitely loved the ending.
Highly recommend to mature readers (adult content and details)
June 11, 2023
3.5/5
April 29, 2010
This book is in Dire need of an editor!!! I've never seen so many spelling mistakes and quotation crimes in my life!
Other than that, I enjoyed the premise of this book, and the plot definitely kept me involved, but it lost a lot of points with me for the sex. I can accept some well-written sex scenes in a P&P retelling, but well-written these were not. Add to that that it was Premarital, not just with Lizzy and Darcy but Jane and Bingley?!? No no no no no.
I very much enjoyed the portions of the story that were spent on Colonel Fitzwilliam, and would have liked to have more of that and less of his Brother James & Caroline Bingley's Scheming. Fitzwilliam seemed to me to be the unsung (almost tragic) hero of this book. He's not portrayed as perfect as Darcy, but that is maybe why I liked him better. Fitzwilliam is Cheated by Lady Catherine, Duped by his brother and his mistress, and finds himself in love with Elizabeth only to have her fall for & marry his richer, handsomer (and slightly more moral) cousin. They could have made the whole book about him and I wouldn't have complained.
Other than that, I enjoyed the premise of this book, and the plot definitely kept me involved, but it lost a lot of points with me for the sex. I can accept some well-written sex scenes in a P&P retelling, but well-written these were not. Add to that that it was Premarital, not just with Lizzy and Darcy but Jane and Bingley?!? No no no no no.
I very much enjoyed the portions of the story that were spent on Colonel Fitzwilliam, and would have liked to have more of that and less of his Brother James & Caroline Bingley's Scheming. Fitzwilliam seemed to me to be the unsung (almost tragic) hero of this book. He's not portrayed as perfect as Darcy, but that is maybe why I liked him better. Fitzwilliam is Cheated by Lady Catherine, Duped by his brother and his mistress, and finds himself in love with Elizabeth only to have her fall for & marry his richer, handsomer (and slightly more moral) cousin. They could have made the whole book about him and I wouldn't have complained.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2010
Overall, I thought the book was okay. The plot moved along nicely and kept me interested enough to finish. I liked the inclusion of Colonel Fitzwilliam so early on, but ended up feeling like he got the short end of the stick at the completion of the story.
The 'villains' in the story were overdone, IMO, and I could have used less of their POV. I ended up skimming a lot of the scheming to get the gist of what was happening and focused on Darcy & Elizabeth's relationship.
That Darcy & Elizabeth 'anticipated their wedding vows' was one thing, since I've read and enjoyed several of Abigail Reynolds 'what-if' books. But to have Jane & Bingley do it? It seemed wholly unrealistic that either one of them would go that far so soon into their relationship.
The 'villains' in the story were overdone, IMO, and I could have used less of their POV. I ended up skimming a lot of the scheming to get the gist of what was happening and focused on Darcy & Elizabeth's relationship.
That Darcy & Elizabeth 'anticipated their wedding vows' was one thing, since I've read and enjoyed several of Abigail Reynolds 'what-if' books. But to have Jane & Bingley do it? It seemed wholly unrealistic that either one of them would go that far so soon into their relationship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2015
This was a very cute story. I will say,however, that. This book was in desperate need of an editor.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews