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Turnabout
What if a wealthy aunt ensured that Mrs Bennet and her daughters had a secure future and a proper education?
What if Darcy arrived at Netherfield a month after the Bingleys – just in time for the assembly and his famous insult?
What if Mr Bennet was just a little more engaged and the inhabitants of Meryton a little less impressed with the visitors – resulting in the whole party getting kicked out of town?
What if the three oldest Bennet sisters went to London for the little season with the Gardiners and met the relatives of their rich aunt’s husband – who in turn introduced them to their extended family and friends?
If all those things come to pass, how will the story play out?
Some unpleasant truths will be aired before ODC can find their way to happiness.
While on the whole this is a lighthearted story, there is a brief mention of domestic violence, which at the time was common and legal.
What if Darcy arrived at Netherfield a month after the Bingleys – just in time for the assembly and his famous insult?
What if Mr Bennet was just a little more engaged and the inhabitants of Meryton a little less impressed with the visitors – resulting in the whole party getting kicked out of town?
What if the three oldest Bennet sisters went to London for the little season with the Gardiners and met the relatives of their rich aunt’s husband – who in turn introduced them to their extended family and friends?
If all those things come to pass, how will the story play out?
Some unpleasant truths will be aired before ODC can find their way to happiness.
While on the whole this is a lighthearted story, there is a brief mention of domestic violence, which at the time was common and legal.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 14, 2023
144 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
April 20, 2025
Meryton was fed up and kicked the trash back to London, where it came from.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mild language, violence discussed, vicious gossip that defames an innocent
>>Angst Level: light to medium
>>Source: Borrowed this from KU [1-14-23] with no expectations of a review. I volunteered to leave a review. The views and opinions expressed are my own. I first read this as a one-shot on the forums and thought the idea was hilarious. It was later expanded into a work in progress [WIP]. I was pleased to see it published. [purchased 9-27-24] I had to have it so I could read it again.
>>Trope: [1] The Bennet daughters have access to wealth and connections to half of the ton [2] Arrogant/Haughty Darcy [3] Jane has a backbone and a different marriage choice [4] Puppy Bingley
Meryton society was not impressed with the disdain and disrespect displayed by the Netherfield party. No, the uppity Londoners had already dug a deep hole way before Fitzwilliam Darcy ever arrived. His insult at the Meryton Assembly was the final straw. Meryton kicked out the trash and sent them back to London with a flea in their ear. Darcy was horrified that he, the scion of Pemberley, had been unceremoniously dispatched from a town of nobodies. How did that happen?
I hate to say ‘poor Darcy,’ but he was so stupid. How else can I describe his actions, thoughts, and speech? I wanted to ask, how on earth does this man rule a small kingdom like Pemberley and yet be so insulting when in the presence of Miss Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn? His relatives eventually pointed out that he had spent way too much time with Bingley and his pernicious sister. I had to agree because most of what Darcy was saying was espoused by Miss Caroline Bingley. I think Darcy would be horrified to realize how closely his actions mirrored hers. It would take something drastic to get his attention and for him to turn from his stupidity and crass attitude—and it did. Enter one Richard Fitzwilliam. I loved this guy. He was amazing. He took Darcy in hand and got his attention. Boy-howdy, did he ever. That was hilarious.
I did see several changes from the WIP and agree with those improvements. It did appear tighter in the published work. I still think some could have been cut a bit to reduce the repetition. The best part was the sisterly bond with Jane, Elizabeth, and Mary. Elizabeth was a bit of a firecracker and more outspoken than canon. But you had to love her. She stood her ground and gave no quarter. Darcy didn’t know how to act around her. Jane knew what she wanted and what she didn’t. Way to go Jane. Mary was amazing and so funny. I enjoyed her as she rounded out the three eldest sisters. Several pairings were interesting to watch evolve. I adore a good love story.
The prologue sets up the story as it explains the connections and wealth of the Bennet daughters. It made me angry toward the master of Longbourn. I did not appreciate him or his attitude. He improved, but his blasé attitude grated on my nerves. I felt for Mrs. Bennet. She made several comments to him that were rather profound. The assumptions on his part and his crass treatment of his new wife set the tone for their marriage and her nerves. That was interesting. I’ve always wanted her to stand up for herself. Well done, Mrs. Bennet.
1st read: [1-16-23]
2nd read: [9-2-24 ~ 9-28-24]
3rd read: [4-5-25 ~ 4-6-25]
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: mild language, violence discussed, vicious gossip that defames an innocent
>>Angst Level: light to medium
>>Source: Borrowed this from KU [1-14-23] with no expectations of a review. I volunteered to leave a review. The views and opinions expressed are my own. I first read this as a one-shot on the forums and thought the idea was hilarious. It was later expanded into a work in progress [WIP]. I was pleased to see it published. [purchased 9-27-24] I had to have it so I could read it again.
>>Trope: [1] The Bennet daughters have access to wealth and connections to half of the ton [2] Arrogant/Haughty Darcy [3] Jane has a backbone and a different marriage choice [4] Puppy Bingley
Meryton society was not impressed with the disdain and disrespect displayed by the Netherfield party. No, the uppity Londoners had already dug a deep hole way before Fitzwilliam Darcy ever arrived. His insult at the Meryton Assembly was the final straw. Meryton kicked out the trash and sent them back to London with a flea in their ear. Darcy was horrified that he, the scion of Pemberley, had been unceremoniously dispatched from a town of nobodies. How did that happen?
I hate to say ‘poor Darcy,’ but he was so stupid. How else can I describe his actions, thoughts, and speech? I wanted to ask, how on earth does this man rule a small kingdom like Pemberley and yet be so insulting when in the presence of Miss Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn? His relatives eventually pointed out that he had spent way too much time with Bingley and his pernicious sister. I had to agree because most of what Darcy was saying was espoused by Miss Caroline Bingley. I think Darcy would be horrified to realize how closely his actions mirrored hers. It would take something drastic to get his attention and for him to turn from his stupidity and crass attitude—and it did. Enter one Richard Fitzwilliam. I loved this guy. He was amazing. He took Darcy in hand and got his attention. Boy-howdy, did he ever. That was hilarious.
I did see several changes from the WIP and agree with those improvements. It did appear tighter in the published work. I still think some could have been cut a bit to reduce the repetition. The best part was the sisterly bond with Jane, Elizabeth, and Mary. Elizabeth was a bit of a firecracker and more outspoken than canon. But you had to love her. She stood her ground and gave no quarter. Darcy didn’t know how to act around her. Jane knew what she wanted and what she didn’t. Way to go Jane. Mary was amazing and so funny. I enjoyed her as she rounded out the three eldest sisters. Several pairings were interesting to watch evolve. I adore a good love story.
The prologue sets up the story as it explains the connections and wealth of the Bennet daughters. It made me angry toward the master of Longbourn. I did not appreciate him or his attitude. He improved, but his blasé attitude grated on my nerves. I felt for Mrs. Bennet. She made several comments to him that were rather profound. The assumptions on his part and his crass treatment of his new wife set the tone for their marriage and her nerves. That was interesting. I’ve always wanted her to stand up for herself. Well done, Mrs. Bennet.
1st read: [1-16-23]
2nd read: [9-2-24 ~ 9-28-24]
3rd read: [4-5-25 ~ 4-6-25]
February 12, 2023
A good read as usual for this author, and I enjoyed it very much. I couldn’t quite like this portrayal of Bingley. I did like Jane’s fortitude in dealing with him though.
January 20, 2023
the rich Bennet daughters
Not much angst here. The substitute for angst here is Darcy being nearly incapable to not act the fool every time he opens his mouth. He is eventually straightened out and the story has some time for Jane, Lizzy, and Mary to find or be found excellent husbands.
Not much angst here. The substitute for angst here is Darcy being nearly incapable to not act the fool every time he opens his mouth. He is eventually straightened out and the story has some time for Jane, Lizzy, and Mary to find or be found excellent husbands.
March 18, 2023
The Bennets have better connections
I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend it to JAFF readers who love the premise that the Bennets have better connections than the canon P&P, or most especially Miss Bingley is aware.
The opening chapters have events that I’ve never read before in a variation, a real eye opener for sure and it sure hooked me in to see how this was going to change the usual story. Wow. The Bingleys evicted from Netherfield due to their behavior and failure to care for the estate???
I’ve enjoyed so many of this author’s works, nearly all very untraditional, written with such a funny sense of humor they keep me coming back for more. This story takes on a more traditional and serious tone. I’m not a big fan of the premise of ‘better connections,’ but I liked this one a lot. In a conventional variation I’m quite fond of Bingley and was very surprised that Jane really didn’t enjoy his attentions in this story. Of course it makes sense when Mom isn’t wailing about getting married with every other sentence she utters day in and day out. Jane is permitted the advantage of seeing what is really there. We get to see Jane receive the kind of man she deserves, to love and respect her, not just her beauty.
This Darcy is nobly apologetic and sweetly, patiently, romantically respectful in his budding relationship with Elizabeth. Darcy gains humility in a most surprising manner, I wasn’t all that comfortable with it. But it worked for the plot. It brought about a courtship worthy of Elizabeth’s intelligence and sensibility. And ultimately ODC’s Happily Ever After.
I was very happy for Mary in this story. I liked the way the plot moved, with either new characters or familiar ones acting in more important roles.
For Caroline haters out there they will probably enjoy seeing her comeuppance. Her character and that venomous mouth of hers was cringe worthy to the extreme. I present Caroline Bingley, The bridge burner. She had to make up for no Wickham or Lady Catherine in the story.
The domestic violence mentioned by the author in the blurb as a warning was extremely sad and more sickening because of its cause. For readers who this triggers you could actually skip most of chapter 29.
I’m aware many readers don’t like an Elizabeth who knows multiple languages and has such an impressive education. I believe the author takes the issue on in a realistic way if you have the patience to read through and pay attention to the inner dialogue of Lizzy’s character. I really liked this one, I’m putting it on the reread shelf.
I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend it to JAFF readers who love the premise that the Bennets have better connections than the canon P&P, or most especially Miss Bingley is aware.
The opening chapters have events that I’ve never read before in a variation, a real eye opener for sure and it sure hooked me in to see how this was going to change the usual story. Wow. The Bingleys evicted from Netherfield due to their behavior and failure to care for the estate???
I’ve enjoyed so many of this author’s works, nearly all very untraditional, written with such a funny sense of humor they keep me coming back for more. This story takes on a more traditional and serious tone. I’m not a big fan of the premise of ‘better connections,’ but I liked this one a lot. In a conventional variation I’m quite fond of Bingley and was very surprised that Jane really didn’t enjoy his attentions in this story. Of course it makes sense when Mom isn’t wailing about getting married with every other sentence she utters day in and day out. Jane is permitted the advantage of seeing what is really there. We get to see Jane receive the kind of man she deserves, to love and respect her, not just her beauty.
This Darcy is nobly apologetic and sweetly, patiently, romantically respectful in his budding relationship with Elizabeth. Darcy gains humility in a most surprising manner, I wasn’t all that comfortable with it. But it worked for the plot. It brought about a courtship worthy of Elizabeth’s intelligence and sensibility. And ultimately ODC’s Happily Ever After.
I was very happy for Mary in this story. I liked the way the plot moved, with either new characters or familiar ones acting in more important roles.
For Caroline haters out there they will probably enjoy seeing her comeuppance. Her character and that venomous mouth of hers was cringe worthy to the extreme. I present Caroline Bingley, The bridge burner. She had to make up for no Wickham or Lady Catherine in the story.
The domestic violence mentioned by the author in the blurb as a warning was extremely sad and more sickening because of its cause. For readers who this triggers you could actually skip most of chapter 29.
I’m aware many readers don’t like an Elizabeth who knows multiple languages and has such an impressive education. I believe the author takes the issue on in a realistic way if you have the patience to read through and pay attention to the inner dialogue of Lizzy’s character. I really liked this one, I’m putting it on the reread shelf.
March 3, 2023
Couldn’t finish
This review will contain spoilers!
There were parts of this that I thoroughly enjoyed, but I just could not keep up the suspension of disbelief long enough to finish it. A lot of other reviewers seemed to really enjoy it, so if you don’t mind your JAFF being thoroughly OOC and deliberately on the ridiculous side, you might enjoy this piece.
The opening premise of Darcy, Bingley, & Co. getting booted from Meryton for poor behavior was hilarious and would have been fine on it’s own, if the story were a full on farce, but it wasn’t and the book doesn’t quite strike the right tone to keep it farcical.
Colonel Fitwilliam taking Darcy to task at Gentleman Jacks was fine, but then gut punching him in the middle of a Matlock gathering in front of strangers, and EVERYONE is okay with it? Including Darcy? Too much. Way too much. I couldn’t get past that.
Disappointing, as I did like the premise and a few other scenes.
This review will contain spoilers!
There were parts of this that I thoroughly enjoyed, but I just could not keep up the suspension of disbelief long enough to finish it. A lot of other reviewers seemed to really enjoy it, so if you don’t mind your JAFF being thoroughly OOC and deliberately on the ridiculous side, you might enjoy this piece.
The opening premise of Darcy, Bingley, & Co. getting booted from Meryton for poor behavior was hilarious and would have been fine on it’s own, if the story were a full on farce, but it wasn’t and the book doesn’t quite strike the right tone to keep it farcical.
Colonel Fitwilliam taking Darcy to task at Gentleman Jacks was fine, but then gut punching him in the middle of a Matlock gathering in front of strangers, and EVERYONE is okay with it? Including Darcy? Too much. Way too much. I couldn’t get past that.
Disappointing, as I did like the premise and a few other scenes.
January 17, 2023
One of my fave Bingleys. He is an exaggerated version of himself plus a little bit of Caroline and Mr Collins thrown in.
February 7, 2023
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
January 7, 2026
In this Pride and Prejudice variation the Bennet family has a wealthy relation who contributes to the daughters dowry, and as the owner of Netherfield Park she has put in various stipulations as far as any occupants are concerned. Darcy arrive in time for the Meryton Assembly and his insult. How will these items affect everyones future.
An entertaining and well-written variation.
An entertaining and well-written variation.
January 29, 2025
If the Bennets were well-educated and wealthy, but circumspect about their situation, how does this alter the path of Jane Austen's P&P tale? Sydney Salier's Turnabout allows us to find out. I do enjoy Salier's variations that read like fun, lightly emotional Regency Romps.
Turnabout gives Mrs. Bennet a very wealthy aunt and good connections though this is only revealed in bits at a time. But, enough is revealed early on so she need not worry and stress over the family's future prospects due to the entail of the Longbourn estate. She is no gentlewoman and her education is minimal, but she teaches herself and her girls how to be the mistress of an estate and to behave well in society while Mr. Bennet is involved enough to see to it that they have the opportunity for education and he does his duty by the estate.
In this one, the Bingleys are particularly odious and ignorant though pretentious so that the neighborhood is insulted by their presence and just wants them gone. When Darcy makes his irritated insult about Lizzy, all of Meryton and its environs determine enough is enough and Mr. Phillips exercises his power to end the Netherfield lease while the town give the illustrious Master of Pemberley and the social climbing Bingleys the Cut Direct.
Bingley was oblivious as to what just went down, but Darcy is pole-axed and that was before his cousin heard how he behaved and decided that Darcy needed to learn a lesson that would put his pride under good regulation. Caroline didn't learn and refused to alter so her comeuppance was long overdue when she set society gossips atwitter about the Bennet ladies.
Yes, it was high entertainment as this reverse in situations plays out right down to the oldest Bennet daughters taking London Society by storm and leaving three worthy men in lovestruck situations. Jane is gentle, but has a quiet strength, Lizzy is a proud card-carrying bluestocking, and Mary has a wry wit and common sense with her shy demeanor though she won't let a man's good principles get in the way of her future happiness. Great-Aunt Mary had definitely set the cat among the pigeons when she instructed and willed her final affairs the way she did.
Some of this author's books set things up so that there is too much of an imbalance in circumstances of the romance pair or a too perfect heroine that it takes away the chance of good tension in a story, but this one hit the spot for me with the right amount of gentle romance, amusing characters and situations, historical background details (especially about the running of estates that was fascinating), external and internal plot growth, and surprises.
One I can definitely recommend as a charming variation and one of my new favorites from this author.
Turnabout gives Mrs. Bennet a very wealthy aunt and good connections though this is only revealed in bits at a time. But, enough is revealed early on so she need not worry and stress over the family's future prospects due to the entail of the Longbourn estate. She is no gentlewoman and her education is minimal, but she teaches herself and her girls how to be the mistress of an estate and to behave well in society while Mr. Bennet is involved enough to see to it that they have the opportunity for education and he does his duty by the estate.
In this one, the Bingleys are particularly odious and ignorant though pretentious so that the neighborhood is insulted by their presence and just wants them gone. When Darcy makes his irritated insult about Lizzy, all of Meryton and its environs determine enough is enough and Mr. Phillips exercises his power to end the Netherfield lease while the town give the illustrious Master of Pemberley and the social climbing Bingleys the Cut Direct.
Bingley was oblivious as to what just went down, but Darcy is pole-axed and that was before his cousin heard how he behaved and decided that Darcy needed to learn a lesson that would put his pride under good regulation. Caroline didn't learn and refused to alter so her comeuppance was long overdue when she set society gossips atwitter about the Bennet ladies.
Yes, it was high entertainment as this reverse in situations plays out right down to the oldest Bennet daughters taking London Society by storm and leaving three worthy men in lovestruck situations. Jane is gentle, but has a quiet strength, Lizzy is a proud card-carrying bluestocking, and Mary has a wry wit and common sense with her shy demeanor though she won't let a man's good principles get in the way of her future happiness. Great-Aunt Mary had definitely set the cat among the pigeons when she instructed and willed her final affairs the way she did.
Some of this author's books set things up so that there is too much of an imbalance in circumstances of the romance pair or a too perfect heroine that it takes away the chance of good tension in a story, but this one hit the spot for me with the right amount of gentle romance, amusing characters and situations, historical background details (especially about the running of estates that was fascinating), external and internal plot growth, and surprises.
One I can definitely recommend as a charming variation and one of my new favorites from this author.
February 2, 2023
Delightful
Another absolutely delightful and at times whimsical variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by the talented Sydney Sailer. I enjoyed it very much.
Another absolutely delightful and at times whimsical variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by the talented Sydney Sailer. I enjoyed it very much.
January 20, 2023
Avid Reader
I enjoyed reading this in draft on Fanfiction. I found it interesting that neither Caroline nor Lydia married. Many of the characters did have a complete turnabout in their characters as the novel progressed.
I enjoyed reading this in draft on Fanfiction. I found it interesting that neither Caroline nor Lydia married. Many of the characters did have a complete turnabout in their characters as the novel progressed.
February 3, 2023
A good book
This book was the imaginative story of what could happen if someone actually took care of their family. The relatives that decided not only to love their family but put in place a plan to help them financially with stipulations that Mrs Bennet followed. Hurrah!
I thought colonel Fitzwilliam’s teachings to his cousin Darcy a bit over the top but well deserved.
Bingley learns a left lesson but sadly his sister doesn’t change. I would reckon this book if you want an imaginative story that does not repeat canon.
This book was the imaginative story of what could happen if someone actually took care of their family. The relatives that decided not only to love their family but put in place a plan to help them financially with stipulations that Mrs Bennet followed. Hurrah!
I thought colonel Fitzwilliam’s teachings to his cousin Darcy a bit over the top but well deserved.
Bingley learns a left lesson but sadly his sister doesn’t change. I would reckon this book if you want an imaginative story that does not repeat canon.
February 2, 2025
Very interesting
I enjoyed the concept of all the good connections and riches the Bennets come to enjoy come from Mrs. Bennet side. I also liked the consequences of the behavior of the Bingley and Darcy. A most entertaining variation!
I enjoyed the concept of all the good connections and riches the Bennets come to enjoy come from Mrs. Bennet side. I also liked the consequences of the behavior of the Bingley and Darcy. A most entertaining variation!
February 10, 2023
I didn't find anything particularly wrong or offensive about this book except that it's no different than anything this author has written. In every one of her books, the Bennets (or at least the girls) are wealthier (and more talented) than anyone realizes, either by virtue of MrB secretly saving more than anyone thought or a rich relative gifting them a fortune. Darcy makes his insult and gets repeatedly raked over the coals BY EVERYONE until he is humbled (and then a little bit afterwards). The Bingleys make some very public faux pas and are ostracized. Then everyone lives happily ever after, usually with one of the Bennet girls marrying a duke.
It was a cute story, but nothing I haven't read before, especially by this author.
It was a cute story, but nothing I haven't read before, especially by this author.
February 23, 2023
Average
After reading other excellent variations this one turned to be disappointing unlike some good reviews I read. The story could have been enjoyable if written well but unfortunately the characters were portrayed to be stupid especially Darcy I think to make Elizabeth look superior. Overall story had the potential to be great but is okay at best!
After reading other excellent variations this one turned to be disappointing unlike some good reviews I read. The story could have been enjoyable if written well but unfortunately the characters were portrayed to be stupid especially Darcy I think to make Elizabeth look superior. Overall story had the potential to be great but is okay at best!
April 6, 2025
Another great book by Salier
Darcy really puts his foot in it. Caroline gets her just deserts. Bingley gets a wakeup call. ODC and all the Bennet sisters get a happy ending, or should I say a happy life. In the process, the three oldest Bennet sisters mingle with the cream of London society and are well regarded.
Darcy really puts his foot in it. Caroline gets her just deserts. Bingley gets a wakeup call. ODC and all the Bennet sisters get a happy ending, or should I say a happy life. In the process, the three oldest Bennet sisters mingle with the cream of London society and are well regarded.
July 20, 2023
I almost DNF'd this at 50% but decided to push through, and I'm glad I did because it ended up being cute. It's definitely not my favorite, but I did end up enjoying the end.
December 4, 2023
I think I liked this book because it fulfilled nearly all my wishes. Better parents, better connections, better fortune for the Bennet girls, egg on the face for Collins, public humiliation for Caroline, no Wickham (Yay!).
February 15, 2023
I always enjoy this author! Zero angst, fun, & easy to enjoy!
February 23, 2023
Too many teaching moments
Interesting idea for a book, but it turned into a morality play. The characters were all a bit much - too perfect, too oblivious, or too clever to be realistic. I also didn't like the portrayal of the Colonel and how no one objected to his treatment of Darcy.
Interesting idea for a book, but it turned into a morality play. The characters were all a bit much - too perfect, too oblivious, or too clever to be realistic. I also didn't like the portrayal of the Colonel and how no one objected to his treatment of Darcy.
February 20, 2023
okay but slightly boring
I wanted to like this as I like this author, but it is slightly boring. Not much angst which is good for me, but it just seemed most couples lacked chemistry and not a lot moved the story forward. I think it’s worth reading once, but I much prefer this authors other stories. Even the Bingley’s were handled pretty easily and Darcy seemed like an idiot most of the story. I’m never a fan of a stupid Darcy.
I wanted to like this as I like this author, but it is slightly boring. Not much angst which is good for me, but it just seemed most couples lacked chemistry and not a lot moved the story forward. I think it’s worth reading once, but I much prefer this authors other stories. Even the Bingley’s were handled pretty easily and Darcy seemed like an idiot most of the story. I’m never a fan of a stupid Darcy.
February 10, 2023
Hmm, I think, as another reviewer mentioned, that these Bennet sisters were a little too perfect. The characters seem somewhat polarized in this, and the happy endings all a little too happy to believe.
February 8, 2023
ok
Overall, this is a very entertaining book. Same story slightly different. was not a big fan of how Darcy was portrayed. The writing was questionable and slightly amateurish.
Overall, this is a very entertaining book. Same story slightly different. was not a big fan of how Darcy was portrayed. The writing was questionable and slightly amateurish.
February 4, 2023
Wonderful
I cannot wait for Sydney Salier's next creation! This author is an automatic purchase for me. Delightful, delicious, funny, clever, and completely engaging. The Bennetts have a little known wealthy relation, great aunt Mary Carleton, a widow whose only child was taken in an accident. She decides to make the five Bennett daughters her heirs, but only Uncle Gardiner and Mr Phillips know the true extent of the wealth to be handed down to the women, either when they marry or when they turn twenty-five. And it's not just money, but also estates. This wonderful aunt provides the funds and the house in the fashionable part of London, so that the girls can all participate in the Season, and have opportunities to meet more people than they would only in Hertfordshire.
Bingley takes the lease on Netherfield Park, and a month later Darcy joins him and his family. The infamous insult is delivered by Darcy to Elizabeth at the Meryton assembly. Mr Gardiner, who secretly has the handling of Netherfield along with Phillips, has built a clause into the lease allowing them to evict the tenants if they behave in an objectionable manner. Because of Darcy's insult, Caroline Bingley's awful pompous behavior, and some other issues, Bingley, his family and Darcy are all evicted, much to their complete surprise. They all return to London.
Shortly thereafter, the three oldest Bennett daughters are scheduled to go to London, where Aunt and Uncle Gardiner are to chaperone them for the "little Season." There they meet the rest of the Carleton relations, who are very high in society, and consequently they meet many wonderful and important people. Darcy, meanwhile, has been taken severely to task by Colonel Fitzwilliam for his awful manners in Hertfordshire, and Darcy realizes that he's pretty much shot himself in the foot, and that he's got a lot to atone for.
This author is a spectacular writer, with a much appreciated sense of humor. The banter and the sly wit are priceless. The new characters that are introduced are wonderful people that you come to care about. This is far from canon, but it's so much fun that you have to love it. I love what was changed about the individual Bennett daughters. Mr and Mrs Bennett are slightly less annoying. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
I cannot wait for Sydney Salier's next creation! This author is an automatic purchase for me. Delightful, delicious, funny, clever, and completely engaging. The Bennetts have a little known wealthy relation, great aunt Mary Carleton, a widow whose only child was taken in an accident. She decides to make the five Bennett daughters her heirs, but only Uncle Gardiner and Mr Phillips know the true extent of the wealth to be handed down to the women, either when they marry or when they turn twenty-five. And it's not just money, but also estates. This wonderful aunt provides the funds and the house in the fashionable part of London, so that the girls can all participate in the Season, and have opportunities to meet more people than they would only in Hertfordshire.
Bingley takes the lease on Netherfield Park, and a month later Darcy joins him and his family. The infamous insult is delivered by Darcy to Elizabeth at the Meryton assembly. Mr Gardiner, who secretly has the handling of Netherfield along with Phillips, has built a clause into the lease allowing them to evict the tenants if they behave in an objectionable manner. Because of Darcy's insult, Caroline Bingley's awful pompous behavior, and some other issues, Bingley, his family and Darcy are all evicted, much to their complete surprise. They all return to London.
Shortly thereafter, the three oldest Bennett daughters are scheduled to go to London, where Aunt and Uncle Gardiner are to chaperone them for the "little Season." There they meet the rest of the Carleton relations, who are very high in society, and consequently they meet many wonderful and important people. Darcy, meanwhile, has been taken severely to task by Colonel Fitzwilliam for his awful manners in Hertfordshire, and Darcy realizes that he's pretty much shot himself in the foot, and that he's got a lot to atone for.
This author is a spectacular writer, with a much appreciated sense of humor. The banter and the sly wit are priceless. The new characters that are introduced are wonderful people that you come to care about. This is far from canon, but it's so much fun that you have to love it. I love what was changed about the individual Bennett daughters. Mr and Mrs Bennett are slightly less annoying. The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
March 17, 2023
As we are told the party at Netherfield earns the disdain of the townspeople and soon are asked to give up the lease and leave. Darcy has only been there the one day and attended the assembly where he insulted Elizabeth which added to the residents' move to oust the party. Little do Bingley, Caroline and/or Darcy know but the Bennet sisters have not only money but also connections in high society.
This author does give us a family tree at the beginning so we can see how all are related and some of those are new characters.
Bingley is handled differently in this story - a new thread not much like canon, except that he seems to court Jane and then when being relieved of his lease of Netherfield makes no attempt to stay in touch with her.
Jane, Elizabeth and Mary travel to London where they stay with the Gardiners who have two residences, one near Darcy's own. They are to enjoy some of the season. What they don't disclose is the fact that each of these ladies is in possession of a rich dowry.
And, thus we have a strong theme of marrying for respect and love rather than position, connections or wealth.
Caroline digs herself a hole and buries herself in the landslide. Can't say I felt sorry for her.
Kitty and Lydia are not out and have a governess. Wickham is not much of a factor in the end.
A certain section has a variety on proposals. Does he or she ask? Who accepts? And is there to be a kiss?
Interesting with some need for editing. I enjoyed this story and have enjoyed other stories by this author.
This author does give us a family tree at the beginning so we can see how all are related and some of those are new characters.
Bingley is handled differently in this story - a new thread not much like canon, except that he seems to court Jane and then when being relieved of his lease of Netherfield makes no attempt to stay in touch with her.
Jane, Elizabeth and Mary travel to London where they stay with the Gardiners who have two residences, one near Darcy's own. They are to enjoy some of the season. What they don't disclose is the fact that each of these ladies is in possession of a rich dowry.
And, thus we have a strong theme of marrying for respect and love rather than position, connections or wealth.
Caroline digs herself a hole and buries herself in the landslide. Can't say I felt sorry for her.
Kitty and Lydia are not out and have a governess. Wickham is not much of a factor in the end.
A certain section has a variety on proposals. Does he or she ask? Who accepts? And is there to be a kiss?
Interesting with some need for editing. I enjoyed this story and have enjoyed other stories by this author.
September 20, 2024
Premise: The Bingley group arrive in Meryton a month ahead of Darcy, only to end up irritating and offending most of the town. When Darcy finally arrives and delivers his insult to Elizabeth, it's the last straw. The town's complaints ensure Netherfield's owner (a mysterious surprise for later!) cancels the lease and invites the rude visitors to exit stage left. And don't let the door hit you on the way out.
What I liked: This is a relatively low-angst fluff-fest with silly humor, a deeply chastened Darcy, a painful set-down for Caroline, and a "Bennet's are secretly much richer and more connected than they seem" plot. Most of the groveling and courting happen in London, as the three eldest Bennet girls have a Season. I liked the twist on a "cad Bingley" plot.
Characterization: A less nervous and histrionic Mrs Bennet (odd how not having to worry about housing and money can have a calming effect...), a Mr Bennet who is at least trying to be better, a slightly more savvy Jane, a Mary with greater interests, and a Lydia and Kitty still in the schoolroom. Bingley as a bit of a spineless clueless accidental rake.
Smut level: Very low. Chaste kisses only.
Any non-canon parings:
Issues: A few spelling and grammar issues. A lot of telling without showing. Still fluffy fun.
What I liked: This is a relatively low-angst fluff-fest with silly humor, a deeply chastened Darcy, a painful set-down for Caroline, and a "Bennet's are secretly much richer and more connected than they seem" plot. Most of the groveling and courting happen in London, as the three eldest Bennet girls have a Season. I liked the twist on a "cad Bingley" plot.
Characterization: A less nervous and histrionic Mrs Bennet (odd how not having to worry about housing and money can have a calming effect...), a Mr Bennet who is at least trying to be better, a slightly more savvy Jane, a Mary with greater interests, and a Lydia and Kitty still in the schoolroom. Bingley as a bit of a spineless clueless accidental rake.
Smut level: Very low. Chaste kisses only.
Any non-canon parings:
Issues: A few spelling and grammar issues. A lot of telling without showing. Still fluffy fun.
April 10, 2023
Needs a Great Deal of Editing
I picked up this book because I was intrigued by the premise that the Bingley party were asked to leave Netherfield. That was an original and fun concept, but it didn’t live up to its promise. Salier desperately needs a good editor. Her writing is extremely verbose, and her sentences would improve in clarity if she cut down on some of the words! She’s also guilty of telling versus showing.
The characters are all OOC and a little too perfect- with the exception of Bingley and Darcy. Bingley is turned into a villain and this version of Darcy is both rude and an idiot. The scene I couldn’t move past was the dinner where Colonel Fitzwilliam punches Darcy and apparently everyone is okay with it. That was utterly ridiculous. I also noticed that Darcy quotes Lizzy’s “My courage rises” speech back to her at one point. That makes no sense however, because she never says that quote in this book. Darcy meets Lizzy at the assembly and then follows her to London. They never go to Rosings which is where she said that quote. It just didn’t make sense to reference something that wasn’t said “on screen” in the book.
I think I’m finished with Salier’s P&P variations. They’re all very similar (the Bennets are secretly rich!) and while she has good ideas, her writing isn’t sufficient to carry them out with credit.
I picked up this book because I was intrigued by the premise that the Bingley party were asked to leave Netherfield. That was an original and fun concept, but it didn’t live up to its promise. Salier desperately needs a good editor. Her writing is extremely verbose, and her sentences would improve in clarity if she cut down on some of the words! She’s also guilty of telling versus showing.
The characters are all OOC and a little too perfect- with the exception of Bingley and Darcy. Bingley is turned into a villain and this version of Darcy is both rude and an idiot. The scene I couldn’t move past was the dinner where Colonel Fitzwilliam punches Darcy and apparently everyone is okay with it. That was utterly ridiculous. I also noticed that Darcy quotes Lizzy’s “My courage rises” speech back to her at one point. That makes no sense however, because she never says that quote in this book. Darcy meets Lizzy at the assembly and then follows her to London. They never go to Rosings which is where she said that quote. It just didn’t make sense to reference something that wasn’t said “on screen” in the book.
I think I’m finished with Salier’s P&P variations. They’re all very similar (the Bennets are secretly rich!) and while she has good ideas, her writing isn’t sufficient to carry them out with credit.
November 24, 2024
I loved it!
Warning: While on the whole this is a lighthearted story, there is a brief mention of domestic violence, which at the time was common and legal.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. What if a wealthy aunt ensured that Mrs Bennet and her daughters had a secure future and a proper education? What if Darcy arrived at Netherfield a month after the Bingleys, just in time for the assembly and his famous insult? What if Mr Bennet was just a little more engaged and the inhabitants of Meryton a little less impressed with the visitors, resulting in the whole party getting kicked out of town? What if the three oldest Bennet sisters went to London for the little season with the Gardiners and met the relatives of their rich aunt’s husband, who in turn introduced them to their extended family and friends? If all those things come to pass, how will the story play out? Some unpleasant truths will be aired before ODC can find their way to happiness. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
Warning: While on the whole this is a lighthearted story, there is a brief mention of domestic violence, which at the time was common and legal.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. What if a wealthy aunt ensured that Mrs Bennet and her daughters had a secure future and a proper education? What if Darcy arrived at Netherfield a month after the Bingleys, just in time for the assembly and his famous insult? What if Mr Bennet was just a little more engaged and the inhabitants of Meryton a little less impressed with the visitors, resulting in the whole party getting kicked out of town? What if the three oldest Bennet sisters went to London for the little season with the Gardiners and met the relatives of their rich aunt’s husband, who in turn introduced them to their extended family and friends? If all those things come to pass, how will the story play out? Some unpleasant truths will be aired before ODC can find their way to happiness. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
April 4, 2023
Fun book
Mrs. Bennett has an aunt whose husband was a successful business man and assures Mrs. Bennett that she and the girls can have her cottage in Meryton after Mr. Bennett passes along with enough money in trust to live comfortably so long as she hires a governess to help raise the girls as gentlewomen. Now Mrs. Bennet is much calmer and more refined, along with the girls, when the Netherfield party arrives.
The Netherfield party is the same in all their rude glory and are eventually shunned by the town and leave. The three eldest Bennett girls leave for a season on London with the Gardiners and end up connecting with their great aunt's family. Thus starts the very interesting tale of lessons learned by the Bingleys and Darcy.
I loved the characters in this book and how they grew. Colonel Fitzwilliam's antics actually made me laugh out loud a couple of times. The three eldest Bennett girls were the main focus and they had very distinct, believable personalities. I even liked Mrs. Bennett in this book, which isn't super common for me.
This will probably be a reread for me. It was fun but also serious and kept your attention the whole time. There were no Wickham or Lady Catherine issues in the book, only Caroline Bingley in all her glory.
Mrs. Bennett has an aunt whose husband was a successful business man and assures Mrs. Bennett that she and the girls can have her cottage in Meryton after Mr. Bennett passes along with enough money in trust to live comfortably so long as she hires a governess to help raise the girls as gentlewomen. Now Mrs. Bennet is much calmer and more refined, along with the girls, when the Netherfield party arrives.
The Netherfield party is the same in all their rude glory and are eventually shunned by the town and leave. The three eldest Bennett girls leave for a season on London with the Gardiners and end up connecting with their great aunt's family. Thus starts the very interesting tale of lessons learned by the Bingleys and Darcy.
I loved the characters in this book and how they grew. Colonel Fitzwilliam's antics actually made me laugh out loud a couple of times. The three eldest Bennett girls were the main focus and they had very distinct, believable personalities. I even liked Mrs. Bennett in this book, which isn't super common for me.
This will probably be a reread for me. It was fun but also serious and kept your attention the whole time. There were no Wickham or Lady Catherine issues in the book, only Caroline Bingley in all her glory.
May 25, 2025
3.75⭐️
This was a variation where the couples other than the OG Elizabeth and Darcy are quite different. And for once we have a Mrs. Bennet who is affectionate to all her children and is not as worried about life post Mr. Bennets death as she has an aunt who has left them comfortable inheritance wise. While I loved most of the characters and situations, I have to say my lease favourite romance was the one between Elizabeth & Darcy. Darcy came across as mostly arrogant and mulish in the way he defends his friend Bingley, even when he is presented with evidence and facts. Not to say Bingley was a bad man, but he was a bad influence on Darcy what with him not doing anything to control Miss Bingley and that bringing out the worst of Darcy's pride and arrogance and his feeling of superiority. He just was not likeable. The best part about this story is Jane and Mary for me. Jane is not a pushover and Mary is not a wallflower, though they come off as that for the casual observer. But they were both strong. The drama in this book is mostly all caused by Darcy and his relationship with the Bingleys and there was no interference from the usual culprits, a.k.a., Lady Catherine and Wickham. I quite wnjoyed this read and completed it in a very short amount of time.
This was a variation where the couples other than the OG Elizabeth and Darcy are quite different. And for once we have a Mrs. Bennet who is affectionate to all her children and is not as worried about life post Mr. Bennets death as she has an aunt who has left them comfortable inheritance wise. While I loved most of the characters and situations, I have to say my lease favourite romance was the one between Elizabeth & Darcy. Darcy came across as mostly arrogant and mulish in the way he defends his friend Bingley, even when he is presented with evidence and facts. Not to say Bingley was a bad man, but he was a bad influence on Darcy what with him not doing anything to control Miss Bingley and that bringing out the worst of Darcy's pride and arrogance and his feeling of superiority. He just was not likeable. The best part about this story is Jane and Mary for me. Jane is not a pushover and Mary is not a wallflower, though they come off as that for the casual observer. But they were both strong. The drama in this book is mostly all caused by Darcy and his relationship with the Bingleys and there was no interference from the usual culprits, a.k.a., Lady Catherine and Wickham. I quite wnjoyed this read and completed it in a very short amount of time.
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