In Search of Mr Darcy: Lessons Learnt in the Pursuit of Happily Ever After

by Christina Ford

A coming-of-middle-age memoir, about the search for love, friendship and the ever-elusive Mr Darcy

Prince Charming? Happily ever after? Childhood fairy tales are full of promises, but the reality - life - is a very different story. And that story has a hell of a lot to teach us.

Written with honesty, humour and warmth, Christina Ford looks back on four decades of dates, loves, marriages, friendships, affairs, divorces, parenting disasters and step-parenting nightmares.

For all those who have ever wondered if there is life after divorce, sex after 40, or who have had their heart broken and questioned if they will ever find love again, this is a reaffirming rallying call that mid-life is exactly that - the middle and not the end.

Genres: Audiobook

320 pages, Hardcover

Published May 4, 2023

Reviews

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down! It’s a witty, laugh out loud funny, and touching memoir about growing up. You’ll get your fill of life lessons, honesty about marriage and divorce, parenting, and friendships, and sitcom worthy dating anecdotes. If you enjoyed Sex and the City friendship/drama, you’ll want to pick this up! Would recommend!

[Martin Julien · Rating 5 out of 5]

A strikingly honest, unwaveringly funny, profoundly reflective, fully compassionate memoir of falling in love, falling out of love, raising a family, creating a career, and growing up. Hard to put down! There's something for everyone in this moving and inspiring read.

[karla_bookishlife · Rating 3 out of 5]

An honest, reflective, and, at times, humorous memoir of the loves and losses of Christina Ford over the span of four decades. The reflections of first crushes, first dates, first kisses, and the heedy rush into marriage are heartwarming and conjure up our own first experiences. The mood changes with the road to divorce and the pain of the breakups of a serious relationship in adulthood, alongside the messiness of cheating and resentful stepchildren. This open conversation connects us to the experiences of the author, made even more striking whilst listening to the audiobook. We witness the private highs and lows and empathise and connect with her experiences. She advises her 20year old self that it will literally fly by in the blink of an eye and reassures that midlife is not the end of the story; there is much more in store if worries are set aside and we first choose to love ourselves. #insearchofMrDarcy #christinaford #netgalley

[The Northern Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Following Christina from early childhood through to her 50s, this is an inspiring and thought provoking novel which encourages you to witness and share her experiences - both good and bad - while also looking at your own.

An engaging, open and honest look at one woman's romantic history charting how fairy tales, social pressures and self esteem can often lead us to make decisions an older, wiser us may advise not to. It gives the reader the opportunity to forgive themselves for the mistakes a younger them made while encouraging them to appreciate and make the most of what they have.

An uplifting, chuckle and sob inducing roller coaster of a memoir, I heartedly recommend.

[Phoebe Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christina is a hugely funny and gifted writer who weaves a wonderful tale of her life as told through the lens of the significant men in it. The book had me laughing and crying in equal measure and offered so much wisdom about our search for love in other people and how ultimately, that should really start with loving ourselves. A very inspiring and uplifting story that made me want to be as brave and positive as Christina when it comes to embracing the wild ride of love, loss and the crazy thing that is life.

[PattiHull58 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A total must read

[Philippa Meighan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book and can so relate to some of the wonderful chapters…

[Kisane Slaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hilarious, graphic, poignant - a damn good read!

[Naomi Frenette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good read, over coffee, wine, anything. Really enjoyed it and I recommend it to anyone who wants to disconnect, laugh and be in the moment!

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

In her memoir, In Search of Mr. Darcy, Christina Ford presents an intimate exploration of her life's journey. Inspired in her youth by Jane Austen's iconic character, Mr. Darcy, Ford embarks on a quest paralleling Austen’s narrative, weaving her aspirations and experiences into a compelling tale. This book is not just a chronicle of romantic endeavors but also a tapestry of life lessons gleaned from various encounters.

Ford's narrative takes the reader through her adolescence and adulthood, highlighting her relationships, professional life, and friendships. She offers a candid and honest reflection on these experiences, including her trials in love, the complexities of marriage, and the eventual path to divorce. Her story is punctuated by poignant anecdotes illustrating her growth and resilience, especially as a single mother raising two daughters.

The book shines a light on the essence of personal evolution, emphasizing that time is a crucial element in shaping one's character. Ford's experiences, particularly her approach to aging and her willingness to embrace change, impart valuable insights. Her perspectives on trusting one's instincts and the importance of self-renewal resonate deeply. Ford's directness and frankness lend a unique authenticity to her narrative, making it particularly engaging. Her life, characterized by unexpected turns and a willingness to follow her heart, serves as an inspiration for living fully and embracing each moment.

In Search of Mr. Darcy appeals to a wide audience, offering wisdom for women of all ages and walks of life. Ford's journey, while deeply personal, taps into universal themes of self-discovery and empowerment. Her story encourages readers to confront challenges and nurture their best selves, making it a valuable addition to the genre of personal memoirs.

[Peter Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a fairly predictable lunkhead dude, who watches sports and can’t ever find anything I’m looking for in our house, even though I’ve been told exactly where it is. However, I’m also a hopeless romantic, who’s desperate to know what women want and need, because I’m fairly certain I have no clue, most of the time. The turquoise hearts that adorn the book cover whose title read In Search Of Mr. Darcy (Lessons Learnt in the Pursuit of Happily Ever After) was more than I could resist. I was hooked almost instantly, recognizing myself, for better or worse, in almost every (flawed) man Christina Ford, the author, described. The autobiography progresses and we are introduced to profoundly disastrous relationships, over and over. Here’s the thing…I think Ford takes responsibility for her role, everytime. Her white hot desire for the literarily imposed idea of fairy-tale romance has clouded her judgment and created a mirage in each guy. The guys, wow. What a cast of flaw and damage. But she is too, from what I gleen. I could not put it down, felt guilty, put it down, forgave myself, picked it up and repeated. It had me reexamining so much of my own past and what responsibility I bore. I could tell the end of the book was fast approaching and I hoped it would wrap everything up too neatly. No spoilers, but lemme tell you, Christina Ford, I assure you, is more interesting, insightful and fucking hilarious now than she ever was. Tire tracks were never more entertaining.

[Katy Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honest and entertaining look at one woman's romantic history.

This was a fantastic audio read, listening along with the author/narrator. It has the potential to put people off looking for love though! So many men with so many issues/problems/red flags!

It was rather fascinating to watch Christina move through adolescence to adulthood and see the start - main period - end of so many relationships. While of course one woman's life is anecdotal, you can see your own romantic preconceptions, mistakes and choices reflected in her own.

And it wasn't obvious at all how each of her relationships would turn out. Some men seemed so perfect, you just wanted this one' to be the One for her!

The link to Mr Darcy was a little tenuous, it needed a bit more throughout to make it seem like that was what Christine was looking for, though really she was a strong women throughout who wasn't seeming to look for an archetype or particular kind of man.

Great ending with some final actions taken to conclude one particular relationship on just the right note (not gonna spoil it for you, it's too good).

Very enjoyable, and does make you consider your own dating history and decisions!

With thanks to Netgalley for providing a sample audio copy.

[Laura · Rating 2 out of 5]

I picked this book up because of the title and after seeing a few reviews I thought it might help my friend whose husband recently left her. I listened to the audiobook and although I finished it, I found it a bit of a slog. I didn't think it really matched the description although that may be my own interpretation. It was different to what I expected and unfortunately I found the author's slightly braggy tone at times irritating- she seemed to be bragging about her job and her money a lot. Again, this could be just me- maybe my Britishness showing through!

The way the author referred to the mother of her step-daughter really bothered me. She talked about her as if the first years of motherhood (arguably the most important) had been nothing and that she was the only mother figure the girl had ever known. I found that very dismissive and reductive.

Overall, it wasn't the book I was looking for and perhaps that influenced my opinion. Generally if I'm not enjoying a book, I give up, but I kept at this one so perhaps it wasn't so bad.

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

[received via netgalley]
I had zero expectations when it came to this audio book. I’d never heard of Christina Ford, but the title spoke to me. The book is Christina’s life story - or more specifically, her “love-life story”. As I listened, I realised Christina and I had a lot in common. I found myself nodding along, shaking my head, wishing I could warn her what was coming, and sobbing when her life events mirrored my own. If you’re hoping for a Disney style happily ever after, you might be disappointed. However, I was left smiling, and feeling better about what is yet to come for myself. It’s well worth a read (or listen).
I especially loved these two quotes…

“Flawsome: (adj) A woman who fully embraces her flaws, and knows she’s awesome, regardless.”

“If you’re coming home after a night of partying without a shoe? Girl: you aren’t a Princess, you are hammered!”

[La _Dame_aux _chats · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witty, funny, and very well written. I enjoyed this book immensely and read it in one sitting. It really was unputdownable . I laughed out loud at the hilarious anecdotes. My fave book of the year! 5 solid stars 🌟

[Sue Jack · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an entertaining journey that the author takes us on from her childhood through to her early 50s. Christina Ford reflects on dates, marriages, loves, parenting and divorce in a poignant yet amusing way and leaves us with the message that middle age is certainly not the end. Readers will be amused and moved in equal measure and will doubtless reflect on their own relationships as they accompany Christine through her life's ups and downs.
The audiobook is narrated by the author herself bringing her relationships to life in a very entertaining way.
I am grateful to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced listener copy of this book.

[Jo Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this. Is it awful that I had absolutely no clue who Christina Ford was? I guess it’s regardless. It was a lot like one woman’s love letter to herself in all honesty. But we should be here for that. We are supposed to be constantly empowering one another.

I enjoyed various parts of the book, but I think my favourite part was Burning Man. My least favourite was all the brand drops. Hey who am I though, just someone who can’t afford the brands so maybe it’s bitterness 😂

All round it was a good listen.
Thank you to NetGalley and W F Howes Ltd first the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an honest review

[Kathleen Tilley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this memoir! It was highly entertaining and very "readable". It's almost like a collection of short stories - one more crazy than the next! And remarkably - all true. Christina Ford is raw and honest, and has lived an incredible life. A tale for women by a woman -- who despite the trials and tribulations, the highs and lows -- has really triumphed and has a clear eye for the life she wants. It's uplifting and I enjoyed it immensely. Definitely a great read, preferably with a glass of wine and an open mind! It's a fun and witty. And despite (the at times very serious and heartbreaking) content, the author never takes herself too seriously. Highly recommend!

[John Neary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christina Ford's delightful memoir In Search Of Mister Darcy is like a box of peanut brittle. It's so damned more-ish. You just cannot get enough of it. I devoured the whole thing in a single sitting. At turns both hilarious and penetratingly insightful, here is a story of a woman in full flight facing down the vicissitudes of romantic life. Christina gets kicked in the teeth, picks herself back up and is stronger and smarter than ever. You cannot help but pull for this wonderful badass with brains.

[Dale Heslip · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read!
Anyone who is a fan of romance, love, sex and heartbreak will absolutely love this.
A well-written guard down memoir of beautiful relationships that work - until they don’t.
Entertaining, compelling, and unexpectedly funny.
Goes very well with a glass of Chardonnay.
Dale H

[Mirjana · Rating 5 out of 5]

A MUST READ!! This book is on my HOLIDAY wish list. Christina Ford has risen from the flames like a phoenix to SHARE: How to avoid narcissistic humans with our younger generation and to give the already injured…HOPE!
Place it on the GIFT GIVING list!!!
#HannakuhKwanzaChristmasEedLunarNewyearGIFT4all

[Elena F · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witty, unpredictable, fun and easy to read book yet with a distinctive writing style! Great powerful message to all women out there trying to find that Mr Right :) I was totally absorbed by the book and didn’t want it to end but equally was super keen to get it to the end to see the moral of the story. Give it a try!

[Michele Viner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I loved its wit and the author’s voice. I loved its stories and truth.

Nora Ephron + Carrie Bradshaw + Dorothy (the Dorothy who is enlightened, not lost) = Christina Ford.

A great memoir.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun book. The stories of love and loss of relations ships.
Christina is a great story teller that will have you turning pages wanting more.
I'm sure every female can relate to at least one of her love stories. Having said that, this is a great read for both guys and gals.
ENJOY!

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this would make a fantastic book club read! A reflective, self deprecating, funny book that is full of advice and lessons learnt looking for love. I think it was a great read, if you've ever been through a break up and ended up coming out stronger you'll resonate with Christina's words!

[Alex Fdez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a sucker for confessional style, Nora Ephronesque memoirs and this book ticked all the boxes for me! Christina has such a fresh voice and great sense of humour, I felt like I was listening to a friend telling me her life story over a glass of wine. Absolutely loved it.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great memoir. Really honest and truthful. Funny and concise. You won’t be bored or put it down until you get to the end. It’s a great conversation starter if you post a photo of yourself reading this on your dating profile. Creates intrigue. Just a little free tip. Happy reading !

[B · Rating 1 out of 5]

I really struggled to get into the book. I think the style of writing was not for me and due to that I couldn't feel invested in the main character and really understand what was going on.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. A truly unique voice.

[Christine Deathe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Memoirs are not normally my thing but Christina’s journey through life was a very entertaining ride. It would make great discussion material as a book club read.