𝑀𝑦 𝐽𝐴𝐹𝐹 𝑂𝑏𝑠𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛

The prologue, set in 1807 is delightful, romantic and whimsical. Fitzwilliam Darcy is travelling in Yorkshire when he meets The Girl (Elizabeth Bennet). Both are staying in a country village and meet by a stream, while exploring the countryside.  They don't share names but meet for three delightful early morning walks.  The memories are precious to both of them and Darcy has tried to find her for five years.  When we meet Fitzwilliam Darcy in 1811, he carries a dark shadow with him. We see both his reticence and the concern of his friend Walsh and cousin Fitzwilliam.  Darcy is adamant that he will not marry due to the potential impact on a wife and children. I wondered if this was going to be Gothic. Fitzwilliam Darcy - Werewolf! In reality the "shadow" is slightly less mysterious but equally dangerous. A diagnosis that many physicians likened to lunacy.  Darcy fears that if his secret is shared, he may find himself committed to an asylum.  When Darcy meet...

In this variation, Fitzwilliam Darcy does not insult Elizabeth Bennet at the Meryton assembly.  They dance, become friends and rapidly fall in love.  Soon they are betrothed.  If it all seems too easy, you would be right! Darcy's fifteen year old sister, Georgiana arrives at Netherfield, delighted to announce that she eloped with George Wickham. They should congratulate her on becoming Mrs Wickham. Unfortunately, Wickham is a friend-turned enemy, who delights in gloating of his power over his young wife. Soon Elizabeth and Darcy must find a way to deal with Wickham, while protecting Georgiana from harm. To add to their woes, Mr Bennet takes a dim view of the scandal and suspends any discussion of a wedding date. Wickham is horrible and Georgiana is staggering dumb.  Darcy is barely restraining himself from violence and is only kept under good regulation by Elizabeth's loving support. Lucy Marin is always worth reading and I am happy to recommend this book. I received...

This variation positions Elizabeth and Mary Bennet as daughters of Thomas Bennet and Lady Olivia, daughter of the Earl of Elmwood.  Their passionate love match came to an abrupt end when Lady Olivia died in childbirth. Thomas is left with a broken heart and two very young daughters. Unfortunately, Thomas turns to drink and neglects his family and estate for several months. Brother in law, Viscount Mavery tries to get through to him, with little success. In such a state, Bennet was vulnerable and finds himself taken advantage of by a solicitor called Gardiner. Thus, he agrees to marry Gardiner's widowed daughter, Fanny Younge. Life at Longbourn is changed forever.  Their stepmother does her best to exclude them, diverting funds to her own children.  Fortunately, the Earl ensures they have the education, appropriate to their rank. By the time Mr Darcy and Mr Bingley arrive in Meryton, Elizabeth is counting down the days until she and Mary go to London for the Season. So Dar...

This variation is set a year after the Netherfield ball, when Mr Bingley and Mr Darcy left Hertfordshire without taking their leave. When a cholera epidemic strikes London, the Netherfield party seeks refuge in the countryside of Meryton. Darcy is surprised at the changes he finds.  Elizabeth Bennet, once nervous of horses, is racing around in a brand new curricle.  Where they previously seemed to show a mutual dislike, they now spar with each other, exchanging banter and humour. This lightness is contrasted by the profound changes that events have forced on the Bennet family. This is a delightful variation. Darcy is funny, with a dry wit but is also a profoundly honourable and reliable man.  Elizabeth walks a tightrope, balancing the exuberant curricle driver, with her instinct hide from a world she has realised is a harsh and wicked place. Grace Gibson just keeps getting better. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodr...

A Pride and Prejudice variation, where a Bennet heir was born!  Thomas Bennet married his childhood sweetheart Elizabeth Nelson. Soon they welcome their heir, Jonathan.  After eighteen years of happy marriage, Mrs Elizabeth Bennet dies some months after the birth of her daughter, Elizabeth. When Jonathan returns from school, he finds a new Mrs Bennet at Longbourn and it soon becomes obvious that Thomas despises his new wife.  Fanny Bennet is a young vulgar fortune hunter who makes a sorry stepmother to the Bennet offspring. When Jonathan inherits Longbourn, Fanny is determined not to give up her position of Mistress of Longbourn, even when he brings a wife home.  Fanny leaves Longbourn but retains a burning resentment for her step children and a determination to get her position back at any cost.  I really enjoyed this variation. Jonathan is presented as a steadfast older brother and worthy Master of Longbourn.  Having Darcy as Jonathan's acquaintance and s...

Elizabeth Bennet is recently acquainted with the rich and haughty Fitzwilliam Darcy.  Darcy has been getting threatening letters, followed by speculative gossip in the papers. When someone announces the (non-existent) betrothal of Elizabeth and Darcy in a London gossip column, the result could be the ruin of Elizabeth and all her sisters.  The only way to preserve her honour is for Darcy to offer an engagement. The plan is to work out who the enemy is, then quietly dissolve the betrothal. Elizabeth is introduced to the judgemental world of the Ton and gets a close view of Society's dark underbelly. The process of solving the puzzle, draws the couple closer but can true love come from such a challenging beginning. Featuring a smart Elizabeth and a swoon worthy Darcy. Ali Scott never disappoints! I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

A what-if, centred around the end of Jane's life. Interesting characters, a possibly flawed suitor and a compelling portrayal of the bond between Jane and Cassandra. A Mad Endeavour feels like an authentic immersion into Jane Austen's world. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

Fitzwilliam Darcy is in love with Elizabeth Bennet and thinks that they have an understanding. Finding her staying nearby, is the only redeeming feature of a dull duty visit to Rosings, home of his irascible aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh and his cousin Anne. Two men arrive claiming to be constables, with a warrant for Darcy's arrest for treason.  As Darcy readies himself to accompany them, Elizabeth overhears the fake constables planning to kill him on the way to London. Elizabeth is able to warn Darcy, but is shocked when he proposes and asks her to flee with him.  Her refusal only adds to Darcy's despondency. She does however disguise him so that he can flee. Darcy has to hide himself in low class Camberwell and must try to blend in, while he endeavours to identify his enemy. This is an excellent debut novel. Each time you think you have worked out who the villain is, the story twists in a different direction.  The character development for Darcy, takes him from being ...

Following the death of Mr Bennet, his family is left in straightened circumstances. The eldest Bennet sisters, Jane and Elizabeth, contemplate paid employment to support the family. They are intrigued when their uncle Philips, a country solicitor, turns out to be a recruiter for the Crown. They accept positions as agents of the Crown, who are tasked with gathering information when in Society. They prove themselves talented. Their latest assignment has Elizabeth acting as an heiress, betrothed to fellow agent, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, and Jane working as her lady's maid. Attending a house party, they will be seeking a collaborator with the French, from a carefully selected group of guests. Their hosts are Richard's family who are the Earl and Countess of Matlock. His family is a little shocked at the sudden betrothal, but always knew that as a second son, he needed to marry a fortune. Cousin Fitzwilliam Darcy is highly suspicious of Elizabeth but also horrified that Richard ...

The aristocratic Fitzwilliam Darcy is rich, well connected and handsome. On a journey to London, a washed out bridge means a diversion from the well known roads.  Proceeding slowly, down poorly maintained lanes leads Darcy and his staff into the clutches of highwaymen. The ensuing violence robs two men of their lives. Darcy is wounded and loses his memory. The Bennet sisters find him and he is nursed back to health in their home.  He is drawn to Elizabeth Bennet and she to him. However, Darcy does not know his own identity, so cannot move forward with any plans. A visitor from Kent recognises him, so his identity is restored, but not his memories.  This moment of hope turns bittersweet, when he learns that he is betrothed to his cousin.  The villainous George Wickham seeks to take advantage of Darcy's vulnerability and some of Darcy's family are just as bad. Is there any hope for Darcy and Elizabeth? You won't want to stop reading until you know the answer! A really ...

Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, the second son of Earl Fitzwilliam, knows that he should marry a woman of the Ton. His family expect breeding and connections. He needs wealth, as he will inherit nothing. As Richard is about to return to fight in Spain, he chooses love and a woman to comfort and care for him. He meets Elizabeth Bennet at a dance. She is beautiful, intelligent and lively. A whirlwind courtship occurs. Elizabeth is from minor gentry, with no dowry so the Matlock's are appalled.  Only his cousin, Fitzwilliam Darcy stands by him. After only a week of marriage they set off for Spain. The adjustment from newly wed to army wife is hard, but Elizabeth hopes to settle in to it, especially as she is already with child. Then it is over. After only six weeks of marriage, she is a destitute widow.  She eventually manages to get home, but the trauma and privations that she faced have changed her forever heart, mind and soul. She has a profound distrust of men having power over ...

The death of Miss Phoebe Armstrong, a wealthy, elderly eccentric has the potential to change some lives forever. Miss Armstrong decided that her fortune and property should go to a deserving young person.  Upon her death, invitations to a house party at Oakwood Manor go out to a select group. All five were either close to her or showed exceptional kindness to her. Elizabeth Bennet saved Phoebe from a runaway horse in London. Fitzwilliam Darcy had offered assistance to a beleaguered traveller.  They join a week long tournament of critical thinking, solving clues.  The winner will take all. Elizabeth is desperate to win as her family faces an uncertain future when her father dies. Darcy is seeking distraction from heartbreak, following the rejection of his proposal. He is shocked to see Elizabeth, the object of his affections.  Perhaps, he might get another chance? The characters are an interesting mix from the annoying to the downright wicked.  A sweet Darcy and ...

At the Meryton Assembly, Elizabeth Bennet is shocked to meet Fitzwilliam Darcy (again) four years after he broke her heart. A few hours later, they elope! By the beginning of Chapter two, they are on their way to Scotland. A flashback shows Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam meeting in Derbyshire, falling in love and becoming betrothed. Surely, her father will approve such a good match? Unfortunately, this Mr Bennet is secretive, devious and thoroughly unreasonable.  This book contains a labyrinthine plot,  betrayal, threat of kidnapping, love and passion. It keeps you on the edge of your seat to the end.  Excellent! I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own. Amazon review Goodreads review

Fitzwilliam Darcy is infatuated with Elizabeth Bennet, but knows that his family expect him to marry with an eye to status and wealth. Elizabeth has neither. Elizabeth initially disliked Darcy, following an overheard insult. An intervention from Darcy's friend Bingley, ensures the couple realise that they are meant to be together. All appears settled between them until Darcy's aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh arrives declaring an impediment. And for once, she is armed with more than just bluster! A sweet romance, with just a smidge of angst!. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review   Goodreads review

In 1810, Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy meet at Rosings Park in Kent and fall passionately in love. However, the romance comes to an abrupt and brutal end.  Heartbroken, Elizabeth struggles to recover whilst keeping her sadness a secret from her family. Grief is eventually replaced by anger and resentment.  Three years later, Elizabeth is shocked to find that Darcy is to be best man at her sister's wedding.  They are frequently thrust into company with each other, which both find uncomfortable. Elizabeth's behaviour ranges from cool to uncivil to incendiary! While Darcy is trying very hard to redeem himself in her opinion. He also desperately hopes for a second chance. This pride and prejudice variation switches between the events in Kent in 1810 and in Hertfordshire in 1813. This is handled well and despite knowing what is coming, the separation of the couple is agonising to read. I love this variation and I look forward to reading Abigail Sheffield's next book. ...

Elizabeth Bennet finds Fitzwilliam Darcy insufferably proud and arrogant.  Meanwhile, Darcy is trying, very hard, not to fall in love with her. When Elizabeth slips and suffers a head injury, Darcy's care and kindness forces Elizabeth to re-evaluate her opinion. After months apart, circumstances bring them together at Rosings Park. However, a chance to become better acquainted is blasted by an accident that could have far reaching consequences. The novella can be a tricky medium, with the risk of rushed storylines. Christie Capps shows that she has a deft hand and produces a perfect story of our dear couple! I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own. Amazon review Goodreads review

This book is described as a rewrite of Pride and Prejudice, and so it is. However, it is so much more. Really well imagined episodes, that expand upon Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship. It took me a little while to get into the story, but it is definitely worth the effort. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.  Amazon review Goodreads review

Elizabeth Bennet rejects the proposal of her ridiculous cousin, William Collins, heir to her family's entailed estate, Longbourn. Mrs Bennet is outraged at her least favourite daughter's refusal to secure a home for her family, when her father dies. You see, Elizabeth and Jane Bennet have vowed to marry for only the deepest love. Friend, Charlotte Lucas leads Collins away to give Elizabeth some respite (also hoping Mr Collins might offer for her) After entertaining Collins for two days, the Lucas family expect an imminent betrothal. However, Collins discovers information that might allow him to have the beautiful, Jane as his wife.  Charlotte is immediately forgotten. Circumstances lead Jane to marry a man that she does not love. She does however, marry for the love of her family. So very early in the book, Jane is married to a fool, Charlotte is even more firmly on the shelf and Elizabeth is distressed and confused. The ladies' path to security and love is long and sometim...

Fitzwilliam Darcy, a rich, handsome member of the Ton, visits his friend Charles Bingley in the country.  Darcy is rapidly infatuated with Elizabeth Bennet, but knows that she is far below him in rank and unsuitable to be mistress of his vast estate. After an initial poor opinion, Elizabeth finds herself falling in love with him. She tries to guard her heart but is overjoyed when Fitzwilliam proposes (having become thoroughly carried away!) The wedding is quickly planned and a special license acquired.  A family crisis pulls Darcy away and he sends messages to delay the wedding and reassure Elizabeth of his love. Unfortunately, his trusted messenger has a black heart. No messages are delivered and the whole of Meryton watches as Elizabeth waits at the church in vain. Julie Cooper weaves the tale with familiar characters, but they often take on very different attitudes to those we are accustomed. Dialogue from Pride and prejudice appears from unexpected mouths. I have seen this...

Venturing outside on a cold, clear winter's night, Elizabeth Bennet sees a shooting star. She makes two wishes, seeking happiness for her friend Charlotte and the return of Charles Bingley for her sister Jane.  On seeing a second shooting star, she wishes for a love of her own. All lovely thoughts, but Elizabeth is a rational creature.  She is therefore, stunned when the following day the Netherfield Party returns, with the addition of Georgiana Darcy. Dinners and parties ensue and bring the Bennets to Netherfield. Jane and Bingley are inseparable. Elizabeth is delighted with Georgiana's company and starts to think better of Fitzwilliam Darcy. Into the mix is poured an overly strong punch, leading to confession and indiscretion.  The smarmy George Wickham threatens the equanimity of several but is shocked to be met with resistance. Both Darcy and Elizabeth are well written and this novella has a satisfying resolution. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and...

The story pivots around a Rembrandt, stolen from the home of Fitzwilliam and Georgiana Darcy. Darcy is determined to find it and restore it to Georgiana. It turns up in a pawn shop in the disreputable Seven Dials. Unfortunately, a grey haired gentleman buys it, the day before Darcy visits the shop. The Bennet family live at Longbourn, their ramshackle estate, with rapidly dwindling funds. Mr Bennet and his daughter, Elizabeth are both talented artists. Mr Bennet has not painted in many years, as he became overwhelmed with trying and failing to manage Longbourn, when tragedy turned a third son into the Master.  Elizabeth paints in secret and sells her art under a pseudonym, the only way she can earn money. Her goal is to save Longbourn and her family. The Rembrandt turns up at Longbourn, where it seems to become the sole focus of Mr Bennet. Netherfield Park is let at last, by Charles Bingley. The Netherfield party includes Bingley's pernicious sisters and their guests, Georgian...

When Fitzwilliam Darcy joins his friend Bingley in Hertfordshire, he is unimpressed by local society.  At the Meryton Assembly he speaks disparagingly about Elizabeth Bennet. In a private conversation, yes. But too loud and with little care who heard.  Elizabeth tries to brush it off but when it becomes clear that her neighbours heard and either pity or scoff at her, it is hard. She is stunned when her lackadaisical father is furious and demands that Darcy make amends. Darcy has rarely been challenged on his behaviour and is shocked by Mr Bennet's attitude. The insult becomes a catalyst for both men.  Bennet realises that he has neglected his daughters and makes some huge changes within the family. Elizabeth is delighted that he is finally dealing with the behaviour of her younger sisters and even Mrs Bennet. Darcy is initially resistant to change but when Bingley also berates him for his churlish manners, he accepts his faults. Time will tell if the captivating Elizabeth...

Jane and Elizabeth Bennet are orphaned at a young age.  Their Aunt Phillips is keen to take in the beautiful Jane.  However, little Elizabeth is unwanted. Rejected by her mother, for not being a boy, she is bound for an orphanage.  Although he is a single man and not yet successful, Uncle Edward Gardiner will not see her abandoned.  He raises Elizabeth alone, for six years. A business associate, the Earl of Effington becomes a friend and then Godfather to Elizabeth. His daughter, Lady Susan becomes her 'sister of the heart'. Edward's marriage to Madelyn completes the Gardiner family. Elizabeth grows up happy, healthy, educated and loved. Elizabeth's only regret is her distant relationship with Jane.  Mrs Phillips is a stupid, shallow woman who has spoilt Jane and taught her to only care about the superficial. In an effort to forge a closer relationship, Elizabeth goes to stay at Longbourn with Jane and her idiot husband, Mr Collins.  While in Meryton she me...

Jane Bingley dies in childbirth and her grief maddened husband, Charles is soon lost in a riding accident.  This leaves orphaned Charlie and Clara, to the care of their heartbroken aunt, Elizabeth Bennet.  She and her family have little legal standing and the vultures are circling, seeking to claim the Bingley fortune and the Bingley heir.  Enter Fitzwilliam Darcy, sometime friend of Charles. Although estranged, Darcy is the person Bingley contacts for aid in his grief. Darcy arrives at Netherfield Park to offer support to Charles, only hours after his death. Suddenly, the burden of responsibility is so much greater. Elizabeth Bennet dislikes Darcy. On his previous visit to Netherfield his behaviour was haughty and arrogant. When she learns that he plans to take the twins into his care, she is hostile and scared. Darcy has long admired Elizabeth and is shocked that she finds him thoroughly objectionable. The Court of Chancery will not grant guardianship to a single woman,...

The Bennet family have several sleepwalkers, but Elizabeth is the most profoundly affected.  Her family have safeguards in place to keep her from harm. Unfortunately, when Elizabeth stays at Netherfield Park to care for her sister, there is nothing to protect her from herself.  Sleepwalking right into Fitzwilliam Darcy's bed, leads to a very reluctant marriage of convenience. After a shaky start they settle in to a businesslike partnership, but no intimacy.  Both Elizabeth and Darcy are keen to improve the behaviour of Kitty and Lydia Bennet.  The girls come to Pemberley for some lessons in deportment and propriety.   More worrying is Jane's conduct. Definitely not angelic! Of course, we have to have villains.  Here there are two, one is a psychopath and the other a narcissist, so of course drama will ensue. Very enjoyable. Amazon review Goodreads review

Fitzwilliam Darcy is being pressured to marry Caroline Bingley. This leads to a falling out with the Bingley family.  Darcy seeks some distance and retreats to Rosings Park, with his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam Jane Bennet is suddenly being sought out by the Bingley family, only weeks after an appalling snub.  Mr Bennet is suspicious and fears that sweet Jane is being gulled.  Elizabeth Bennet's stay in Hunsford ends early, when she is summoned to London to help her sister Jane. Once all the players are in London, a rollercoaster of events ensue.  Elizabeth witnesses an assassination and tries to stem the copious bleeding.  Elizabeth and Darcy become closer while he and the Fitzwilliam family try to identify who is behind the attack.  As love grows, so does danger. A kidnapping occurs and Elizabeth is involved in a madcap chase to follow. Unfortunately, she is less than successful.  However, an exceptional horse comes to the rescue! Compelling story of...

Following literature's most appalling proposal, Fitzwilliam Darcy endeavours to understand Elizabeth Bennet's chastisements and become a better man.  Darcy writes a letter explaining himself and Elizabeth learns to think better of him. A few months later, Elizabeth is on holiday in Derbyshire with her Uncle and Aunt Gardiner. They make a tourists visit to Pemberley, as the Darcy family are away. Elizabeth is shocked to bump into Darcy. Fate has granted them a second chance for love but they must overcome the challenges of a teenage elopement and a wicked scoundrel.  The road to Gretna Green awaits. Pleasing twist from the original. Definitely worth your time! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

Fitzwilliam Darcy flees to Hertfordshire, seeking solace following a year of heartbreaking loss at the hands of a dark and malevolent creature.  He joins his friend Bingley at Netherfield Park. He is stunned to find that the handsome Elizabeth Bennet is familiar with both the loss and the creature. They hatch a desperate plan to draw the creature out and destroy it. Along the way they find both love and terror! Thoroughly engrossing story! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

Scarlett Margrave lives a quiet and confined life, as the daughter of a widowed, puritanical parson. Attending a local assembly, she meets the aristocratic Earl of Worthe. He and his companions insist that they have met her twin! When she approaches her father, he is dismissive. However, the pull of connection leads her to flee to London.  Scarlett's joy of newly found family is blasted by the appearance of Reverend Margrave. Despite his claims to piety and respectability, he is quite prepared to lie and cheat in order to drag Scarlett back to the Parsonage. Will she be denied both romantic love and the embrace of a loving family? Very enjoyable. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Goodreads review

In 1812, Jane Bingley is having a difficult time with her first pregnancy. Her besotted husband Charles, leases Lake House in Ramsgate, in the hopes that the sea air will be a remedy. They are accompanied by Jane's beloved sister Elizabeth, who steps in to run the house when Jane deteriorates. Part of that role, includes dealing with Charles' correspondence as he has illegible handwriting! A letter intended for a solicitor, is redirected to the owner. The response is rather shocking! Fitzwilliam Darcy claims he would never lease Lake House and makes several rude accusations. He also asks why she has dated her letter as 1812, when it is currently only 1810? Never being one to be intimidated, Elizabeth replies, rather strongly. A regular correspondence arises, as they realise somehow their letters are crossing time. Friendship turns to love, but how can they cross that gap? I was looking forward to reading this, as the synopsis sounded intriguing.  I started reading as soon as th...

In Meryton, the harvest celebration is a fair, with all those attending masked until midnight.  During the dancing Elizabeth Bennet, masked as Shakespeare's Ganymede, is drawn to a gentleman masked as Benedick. An evening of dancing and clever banter, culminates in a passionate clinch.  An accident, during a rainstorm leads to allegations of compromise. Worse still, Benedick is revealed to be Mr Darcy, a man Elizabeth dislikes for his haughty pride. Can the scandal be avoided? Will Darcy and Elizabeth be able to kindle love, from the sparks of passion?  An enjoyable, erotic novella with a pleasing resolution for our dear couple. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

Elizabeth Bennet regrets misjudging Fitzwilliam Darcy and her vociferous rejection of his proposal.  While on a tour of Derbyshire with her aunt and uncle Gardiner, her greatest fear is encountering Mr Darcy.  With some reluctance, she agrees to visit Pemberley, on being assured that the Darcy family are from home. During her tour of the house, Elizabeth encounters a supernatural presence.  At this point, I fully expected a gothic pride and prejudice variation! Darcy arrives home and they meet again. But will the "Shades of Pemberley" help or hinder our dear couple? Delightful story, great characters and a mischievous great Dane puppy. What more could you want? I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review