Only One Choice: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Julie Cooper

When Mr Bennet realises that he does not have long to live, he demands that his teenage daughters accept marriages of convenience.

 

For Elizabeth and Jane, the only choice is who marries Mr Collins, the foolish heir to Longbourn and who will have to submit to Mr Ashwood, a wealthy man who is in his dotage. 

When this variation begins, four years have passed and Elizabeth is a widow, with little money and a crumbling dower cottage. 

When Mr Ashwood dies, his estate at Stoke goes to his heir. Sadly, he is a weasel and his wife, Fanny is a manipulative harpy.

Their impact on Elizabeth is not just material. Fanny drives a wedge between Elizabeth and Jane. Mrs Bennet is vitriolic to and about Elizabeth. The combined effect is that Meryton Society is rather chilly to Elizabeth. 

Fitzwilliam Darcy arrives with his friend, Mr Bingley and meets the local gentry. 

He is intrigued by Elizabeth Bennet and after a shaky start, the two become friends.

This is an admirable Darcy who is kind, thoughtful and determined to help Elizabeth.

An enjoyable variation with angst, betrayal, friendship and love. Excellent reading.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review