𝑀𝑦 𝐽𝐴𝐹𝐹 𝑂𝑏𝑠𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛

No Improper Pride by Amy D’Orazio The story is set in London after the Hunsford proposal. Darcy has got over his anger at being refused by Elizabeth Bennet. However, he has become bereft and regretful.  His cousin, the inimitable Viscount Saye, has no patience and little sympathy with Darcy. He correctly points out that in leaving Kent, after handing his letter to Elizabeth, Darcy denied her the right of reply.  He drags Darcy out for a walk in Hyde Park.  By coincidence, Elizabeth and her sister Jane are walking with their aunt Gardner and cousins.  After introductions, Darcy is floundering, so Saye takes charge, charming the ladies.  Could this be another chance for Darcy? Will Saye be unbearably outrageous and what will Florizel do? Darcy, Elizabeth and Saye in the hands of Amy D’Orazio! How could it be anything but glorious? Insufficient Vanity by LM Romano When Elizabeth Bennet shared the news of her sister's elopement, she was sure that it put an end to her burgeoning romance

Fitzwilliam Darcy is overheard dismissing Elizabeth Bennet as only tolerable. In this variation, Darcy corrects his error by immediately asking Elizabeth to dance.  They both find much to admire in each other. This changes the whole trajectory of the story. Those changes are pleasing. I quite enjoyed the book, although some things jarred a little. Canteloupe and grapes for sale in the Meryton market? Nevertheless, I am sure many will enjoy the story too. 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 novella is almost an alternative reality Pride and prejudice, with the action occurring predominantly in Derbyshire.  Fitzwilliam Darcy lives at Pemberley with his sister, Georgiana and his late father's godson, George Wickham. Despite his reservations regarding some of Wickham's behaviour, Darcy fulfills his father's dying wish by providing a home and financial support for Wickham.  Elizabeth Bennet is touring the Peak District with her aunt and uncle.  At a village festival she meets Fitzwilliam Darcy. Although he exhibits some of his "Master of Pemberley" persona, he and Elizabeth share an instant and volcanic attraction to each other. The plot is not unpleasing, though as expected. The descriptions of their early amorous encounters become rather repetitive. Too many scorching looks, searing kisses and being crushed against his musky scented body. This is most definitely steamy, pride and prejudice. The explicit sections hold nothing back. I have rated oth

When Thomas Bennet dies, his estate is entailed to a Mr Collins. His wife and daughters will lose both home, status and income. Mr Bennet is unwell and Mrs Bennet is scared that death is not far away. She diligently cares for him and ensures that he takes the tonic recommended by the apothecary. A tonic that makes him amiable and compliant. The unctuous Mr Collins is visiting, with a plan to wed one of the Bennet sisters. Unfortunately, he is focused on Elizabeth, who has nothing but contempt for him.  Fitzwilliam Darcy is thoroughly infatuated with Elizabeth, but is leaving Hertfordshire because she is not suitable to be Mrs Darcy.  He learns that Collins intends to propose. Unfortunately, Mrs Bennet has drugged Elizabeth with her father's tonic.  When Darcy arrives at Longbourn, he finds Collins and Mrs Bennet dragging Elizabeth to church for an immediate wedding. She is too out of her wits to know or object.  Darcy is left with only one choice. He must abduct Elizabeth, to save

Fitzwilliam Darcy is still bereft at his failure to win the love of Elizabeth Bennet. Meanwhile, Elizabeth is heartbroken that she fell in love with Darcy, but he never returned for her. A year later finds them both in London.  A chance encounter in a gallery leads to what, may or may not have been "The Cut Direct". The gallery contains a couch, which bears witness to much gossip, misunderstandings and mistaken identities. It is also where we encounter the Cad! Cue many misguided efforts to correct mistakes, relaying messages to entirely the wrong person.  Happy endings are of course guaranteed. All in all, it is glorious mayhem. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

Collections brings together three novellas by MJ Stratton  What Became of Miss Mary King - in which we follow Mary to Liverpool, as she slowly recovers from her encounter with Mr Wickham. It is a delight to watch her build a new life and perhaps find love.  This was really pleasing! At First Slight - in which Eros and Psyche have less than stellar success in encouraging romance between Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy. A Change of Outcomes - in which Lydia Bennet reads her sister's mail.  Fitzwilliam Darcy's famous letter to Elizabeth, details just how bad George Wickham really is.  Initially, Lydia dismisses it as lies, but slowly she begins to acknowledge the truth.  Her trip to Brighton gives Lydia opportunities to re-evaluate her views on men and her own sense of self worth. This stands out as the best novella in the anthology. I definitely recommend! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

Fitzwilliam Darcy's proposal to Elizabeth Bennet is egregiously offensive. After her vituperative rejection, he retreats and she goes for a walk, to clear her head.  Darcy realises that he expressed himself very poorly and follows her to explain.  As he approaches, Elizabeth is manhandled into a coach by three rough looking men. His gallant rescue attempt finds him also abducted. Very quickly they realise that the kidnappers wanted Anne De Bourgh.  When they realise their error, Elizabeth will be in even more danger. Darcy and Elizabeth quickly start to work together and misconceptions fall away. Will they escape? Who is behind the kidnapping? Will Darcy and Elizabeth ever be free of this web of violence and malice? This is a truly awesome book! It is compelling, gritty and keeps you on tenterhooks until the end. 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

After a dinner at Netherfield Park, Jane Bennet becomes too unwell to leave.  Her sister Elizabeth comes to nurse her and finds herself a reluctant guest.  When seeking something to read, she happens upon a handwritten poem.   It appears that the haughty, stoic Mr Darcy, possesses the heart of a passionate poet. She is shocked when she realises that she is the subject. Another poem and she is in some danger of losing her heart to him. But suddenly, he retreats, leaving Elizabeth hurt and confused. When she and Jane return home, they are met with tearstained faces. Mr Bennet has become dangerously unwell and his family fear the worst. I will not add spoilers but the story is beautifully written and the author has a lyrical turn of phrase. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

Whilst visiting the Peak District with her aunt and uncle, Elizabeth Bennet is badly injured in a coach accident.  Fitzwilliam Darcy, stops to provide assistance. He is shattered to discover the woman he loved but couldn't have, is unconscious and gravely injured. The survivors are given shelter and medical care at Darcy's estate, Pemberley. All the action takes place at Pemberley, as Elizabeth slowly recovers under the devoted care of Georgiana Darcy and the Pemberley staff. Initially, Darcy can barely leave the vicinity of her room, so desperate is he to know how she is.  When she starts to recover, he is kind but keeps his distance, unsure of his welcome in her company. Will proximity overcome, Elizabeth's previous antipathy? I really loved this. Darcy is so devoted and sweet. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

Soon after arriving in Evermore on sea, Elizabeth Bennet is exploring the cliffs when she comes upon a gentleman.  It is none other than Fitzwilliam Darcy, a man she thought never to meet again.  Darcy is at first shocked, upon meeting Elizabeth again. By his civility and warmth, he and Elizabeth soon overcome their misunderstandings and become friends. Elizabeth rapidly finds that she cannot imagine life without him. Interference is ably provided by Darcy's "helpful" cousin, Viscount Emerson, who brings Lady Catherine and Anne De Bourgh to Evermore. Honourable mention should go to Mrs Bennet, who is trying to match Elizabeth with a cat obsessed, mummy's boy! What more could you ask for? This is just exquisite.  Full of the salty tang of the sea and that delightful sense of anticipation and excitement one gets when arriving at the coast. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

Beth Bennet from Meryton married well to Frederick Tomlinson. Their daughter Elizabeth Rose, soon becomes an orphan, but is raised by loving grandparents at the family estate Briarwood.  As a little girl, she regularly spends time with family friends, the Darcys and Fitzwilliams. On the death of her grandparents, the now wealthy heiress goes to live with Bennet relations. A substantial stipend follows her, ensuring funds for care appropriate to her station. Elizabeth's uncle Edward is master of Longbourn and a confirmed batchelor. He is kind and makes sure that she is well cared for. Unfortunately, his death only months later, turns her world upside down. Youngest son, Thomas Bennet is master and arrives with his wife and four daughters. Almost immediately Fanny Bennet redirects resources and care to her daughters.  Over time, Elizabeth is told she is Lizzy Bennet, poor relation and is laughed at if she mentions memories of her other family.  The Bennet's even allow the neighbo

After his failed proposal to Elizabeth Bennet, all Fitzwilliam Darcy wants is to put some distance between them.  Unfortunately, they both find themselves obliged to stay in Kent, to attend the birthday ball of Anne de Bourgh. Further vexation comes from having to deal with a rash of peculiar thefts and vandalism.  And what on earth has got into his quiet, downtrodden, sickly cousin Anne?  Suddenly, she is flitting around the neighborhood in her phaeton, consorting with the head gardener and very possibly a local landowner of dubious reputation. This is an interesting variation, I couldn't quite see where the background story was heading.  Set immediately after the Hunsford proposal, it starts with angst and distress. However, being forced to spend time together, allows Darcy and Elizabeth to gradually come to understand and appreciate each other. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

In this variation, Darcy and Elizabeth are much easier with each other, Darcy apologies for the insult.  He develops a real friendship with Mr Bennet. Bingley overhears Mrs Bennet talking to Jane about advantageous marriages and becomes more cautious about Jane.   Wickham notices Darcy's interest in the Bennet family but assumes he favours Jane.  He seeks to exploit that and Jane lets him, having lost all confidence after Bingley leaves.  She feels the weight of the expectation that she must marry well, to save her family. Unfortunately, all this results in Jane, demonstrating behaviour worthy of Kitty or Lydia! Picking fights with Elizabeth and risky, reputation-threatening assignations! When Darcy returns to Meryton, a contretemps between his horse and Elizabeth's dog, Smooch leads to injuries requiring a stay at Longbourn.  Elizabeth cares for him and they become close. They try to resolve Jane's issues, thwart Wickham and fend off Lady Catherine de Bourgh! Enjoyable rea

Fitzwilliam Darcy and Richard Fitzwilliam are cousins and both are second sons.  When they visit Meryton, they are taken with the Bennet sisters.  Darcy decides to throw family expectation to the winds! Just as he is about to propose to Elizabeth Bennet, they are interrupted by news that Darcy is now the heir.  The weight of duty falls upon him and he walks away.  Elizabeth makes a life for herself in London but finds all suitors fall short of Darcy.  Even when he delivers the famous put down, at the Meryton assembly. Over the next few years, their paths occasionally cross. Will they ever find their way together? An interesting variation, with a struggling, occasionally exasperating Darcy and an incredibly long-suffering Elizabeth. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

The Bennet family need an heir. Longbourn is entailed to the male line and without a son, the property will go to a distant cousin.  When her second babe is a girl, Mrs Bennet is distraught and rejects the child.  Fortunately, Lizzy's twin, Tom makes a surprise entrance.  Tom is instantly the favourite, while Lizzy continues to be rejected.  Tom is an unusual child (we would recognise him as neurodivergent) who relies upon Lizzy to navigate the family and the world.  An incident of bullying by children of the Long and Goulding families, leads to a permanent separation between those families and the Bennets. Tom turns his keen intelligence to learning about Longbourn and helping to improve it. He also has a fascination with investments. His remarkable successes lead to a much improved financial situation for the Bennet family, including dowries for his sisters. When Netherfield Park is let at last, all are keen to meet the new neighbours.  Unfortunately, malicious gossip from the Lo

  When we first meet Fitzwilliam Darcy, he is on a mission and seems part spy, part ninja. His stealthy departure is hindered by a stranded cat.  The flea bitten beast attaches itself to his person, both literally and figuratively.  A much needed (and perilous bath) reveals a handsome, single minded and imperious feline. Darcy and his cousin are Agents of the Crown, sworn to protect King and Country, in a time of war. Their dedication has led them to keep a distance from family and foreswear marriage, due to the very real threats of Napoleon and his sympathisers. A mission to protect a valuable cryptographer and his family, means exposure to the lovely and brilliant Elizabeth Bennet.  Lizzy finds that her cosy family life is a web of secrets. The reality only glimpsed, through smoke and mirrors.  Can she trust Darcy and will he return her burgeoning affections? This is a great combination of mystery, betrayal, excitement and romance. Really enjoyable characters and the cat is awesome!

Fitzwilliam Darcy is despondent following his disastrous proposal to Elizabeth Bennet.  Initially, he was angry. How dare someone inferior to him refuse?  And there of course was the problem. His Darcy pride, had blasted his hopes.  When he realises this he berates himself and sinks into despair.  In this frame of mind, he decides to ride to Kent to propose to his cousin Anne De Bourgh.  His male cousins Colonel Fitzwilliam and Viscount Saye, decide to stage an intervention.  When the Colonel announces that he will pursue Elizabeth Bennet, Darcy is horrified and is spurred into action.  A private gentleman's bet on the outcome, gets rapidly out of hand and includes many of the Ton.  One can predict Elizabeth Bennet's response to being the object of a bet! An excellent story. Darcy is lovely, the Colonel is deliberately both charming and irritating. Viscount Saye is his own inimitable self and gets all the best lines!. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leavi

When Elizabeth Bennet visits Pemberley, it seems that she and Fitzwilliam Darcy will finally understand each other.  A much hoped for second chance at love is blasted by the news of her sister Lydia’s elopement with Darcy’s enemy, George Wickham.  On the rushed journey back to Longbourn, Elizabeth rereads Darcy’s letter, her only comfort. At one point, she needs to hide it from others in the coach and thus it becomes stuffed between cushions in her uncle Gardiner’s carriage. Mr Bennet finds the letter, when he is searching for Lydia.  Having failed to parent Lydia, he decides to go overboard in protecting Elizabeth. Mr Bennet demands that Darcy do the honourable thing and propose to Elizabeth. Fortunately, both are keen on the idea! The next twist in the tale is the arrival of the new Mr & Mrs Wickham. Lydia expects to be the centre of attention and is vexed to find that Elizabeth and Darcy are the focus. Lydia and Wickham will go to some shocking lengths in response to the perceiv

Fitzwilliam Darcy returns to the deserted Netherfield Park to recover a gift for his sister, left behind when Bingley and his party fled to London after the Netherfield ball.  A snowstorm prevents his return to Town.  Unbeknownst to him, Elizabeth Bennet has taken shelter at Netherfield after being caught in the storm.  Initial awkwardness, gives way to practicality and a frisson of desire.  Will the proper Mr Darcy and the impertinent Miss Elizabeth eschew all propriety or will misunderstandings and mistakes keep them always at odds? A pleasing, steamy short read. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet are both still reeling from the shock of Darcy’s proposal at Hunsford.  Following, probably the worst proposal in literature, Darcy is wounded by rejection and berating himself for being an idiot. Elizabeth is mortified at her reaction, especially when she realises that she thoroughly misunderstood Darcy.   They both wish for another chance.   In London, Elizabeth decides to finagle a trip to Mayfair, so that she can tell Mr Bingley how much Jane Bennet misses him.   Elizabeth and Maria Lucas wander around Mayfair, but before she finds Bingley’s house, their plans are turned upside down.   Maria spots Darcy, on the steps of a handsome townhouse. The following minutes bring Elizabeth, Darcy and Maria into close quarters with a moving coach and the cobbled street.   Darcy insists on Maria and Elizabeth recovering from their injuries at his house, chaperoned by Mrs Annesley.   Thus, our dear couple are afforded a second chan

Jane Bennet goes on holiday to Ramsgate. There she befriends Georgiana Darcy and meets George Wickham. In an uncharacteristically impetuous turn of events, she returns to Longbourn in love and betrothed! Wickham charms most of the family then departs for London to take care of “business”. Georgiana was in turns delighted with her new friend, then bereft when Jane no longer had time for her, due to Wickham’s intense courtship. Fitzwilliam Darcy is angry at this treatment of his sister, but never expects to meet this inconstant friend. Thus, when he joins his friend Bingley at Netherfield Park, he is surprised and somewhat resentful on meeting Jane. On their part, the Bennet family are worried about the appearance of Darcy, due to Wickham’s tall tales of his wickedness. Elizabeth Bennet is determined to find out the true character of Jane’s betrothed and Fitzwilliam Darcy might just have the answers. An interesting variation, well worth a read! Amazon review Goodreads review

Fitzwilliam Darcy experiences a "groundhog Tuesday" during his stay in Meryton. A mysterious woman tells him that Providence is giving him a chance to change his future. Otherwise, he will end up with his nemesis, George Wickham as a brother! Unfortunately, she only provides cryptic answers when he asks what he needs to do. Darcy tries everything but the day always replays in the same way. After many repetitions, help arrives in the shape of Elizabeth Bennet. The book details their growing friendship and how they improve in character, while desperately trying to find the solution to their mission. Really good story. Amazon review Goodreads review

Everyone always holds their breath during a wedding, when the priest declares “If any man can show just cause, why they may not lawfully be joined together, let him now speak, or else hereafter for ever hold his peace” But rarely does anybody speak.  Except Lady Catherine de Burgh.  In so many Pride and prejudice variations, her objection usually amounts to “I want him to marry my daughter and I am accustomed to getting my own way “ In this variation, she has a signed and sealed marriage contract to wave under the priest’s nose. This is obviously heartbreaking for Darcy and Elizabeth. He feels that his honour is offended, she worries about being abandoned. They both head for Rosings to find answers. Darcy’s new solicitor, Mr Patel is an interesting character, who proves useful on several fronts. The way of solving this conundrum, is to find a worthy husband for Anne de Burgh. The planning of a ball, to meet suitors is sound, but locating it in the assembly room of the Hunsford Inn seem

When Caroline Bingley purchases a love potion from a stranger in the woods, she hopes it will finally secure Fitzwilliam Darcy for her.  Unfortunately, she doesn’t love him, just his status and riches. When she slips the potion in his drink, the consequences are far from welcome.  Darcy takes a drink moments before dancing with Elizabeth Bennet, the woman he secretly adores. The potion overrides his self-control, resulting in a passionate and very public kiss! Droplets of potion on his lips cause Elizabeth to respond in a similar manner. By their own actions, they are compromised. Darcy is mortified, Caroline is horrified and Elizabeth is very confused! Darcy and Elizabeth join forces to discover the cause of such uncharacteristic behaviour.  Meanwhile, Caroline deploys every stratagem, manipulation and misdirection to get rid of Elizabeth and redirect Darcy.  A great novella, with just the right balance of angst, malevolence and romance.  Oh, and Caroline gets her just desserts in the

In Rachel Rowan’s Entitled Love novellas, elements of regency romance such as elegant homes and clever conversation between beautiful, aristocratic people, are interwoven into modern, spicy romantic comedies. In book 5, Unwrapped, we meet William Augustus Henry Shilstone the Second, a.k.a. Biffy. He is part of a dissolute group of playboys. Biffy is famous for his affability and his parties, where excess is expected! Also introduced is Jules Orton, cynical and sarcastic little sister of the Honourable Jay Orton, ex-playboy.  They come from an unhappy family, characterised by a bullying licentious father and a bitter, distant mother.  Jules has an understandably jaundiced view of love and fidelity (or lack thereof)! Biffy/Will is at a Christmas party at Castle Deveron, Scotland the solely to see Felicity Pennington, who has unknowingly bewitched him for eight years. Jules was due to meet her best friend, Felicity at the party, then travel with her to spend Christmas in Kent. Felicity’s

When Netherfield Park is let at last, all Meryton is excited by the prospect of wealthy batchelors.   Charles Bingley, Simon Lockhart and Fitzwilliam Darcy are soon making themselves known to the neighbourhood.  Bingley and Lockhart are handsome and amiable, whilst Darcy projects haughtiness.  Simon meets Elizabeth Bennet when he gets a concussion, falling off his horse. She rescues him and earns his undying regard. Unfortunately, the return of the beautiful Jane Bennet, turns his head and Bingley’s. Elizabeth is quite happy to settle for friendship. However, Darcy is horrified at such inconstancy (whilst becoming increasingly smitten). It takes quite a while for the twisting tendrils of attraction and love to be untangled. Delightful additions include the presence of Georgiana Darcy at Netherfield, Mary Bennet’s growing confidence in her own appearance and the delightful Robbie, the Cocker spaniel. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

When Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy returns to Hertfordshire he hopes to win the heart of his beloved, Elizabeth Bennet.  Elizabeth is convinced that Darcy cannot overcome his revulsion, that Elizabeth’s sister is married to his enemy, George Wickham. She loves Darcy, but is heartbroken that he seems lost to her. Meanwhile, Darcy feels guilty for not denouncing Wickham and thereby protecting Meryton and specifically Elizabeth’s sister. He attributes her reluctance to talk to him as anger. Mrs Bennet may not know the particulars, but she recognises a couple in love.  Thus, our matchmaking Mama, enlists her friends to help her stage an intervention!  Whilst her actions are well meant, reality is incredibly annoying. Our dear couple have to overcome this “help” to find their way to each other. An enjoyable read. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

Traces of Magic is the third book in the magical Mr. Darcy series.  It can be read as a complete, standalone story, although it might be useful to read the earlier books. Life at the Netherfield Royal Mages Academy seems a little more settled. Mages, Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy are married and happy. Into the peace of a cricket match, comes a sudden flare of magic. On investigation, the Darcy’s are shocked to find that the source is her little sister, Lydia. The uncontrolled magic, attracts Rogue mages, who threaten the monarchy. A cross country romp follows, to defeat the Rogues. Mr Bennet, an ex-Rogue mage comes along to assist and the non-magical Mary Bennet provides a surprising intervention. An exciting and delightful 3rd instalment of Mr Darcy’s magic. 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

Elizabeth Adams’ latest book is part gothic novel , part Grimm's fairy tale and all pride and prejudice!   A cruel ancestor, rightly cursed for his wicked treatment of his wife. Unfortunately, the curse afflicts every Darcy male, down through the generations. Dooming them to darkness, fury and violence. Not quite the sort of inheritance that Society expects! The curse contains a blessing. If a Darcy seeks and wins their great love, they will know great joy. That joy will calm the beast within and save them from the evils of the curse. Fitzwilliam Darcy searches for years, in the ballrooms and soirées of London. He has almost given up, when he feels drawn to Meryton in Hertfordshire. Where Darcy goes, his cousin Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam is close by as support and a well armed voice of reason! Meeting Elizabeth Bennet is just the start of Darcy’s labours.  Now Darcy must make conversation with a lady !  A serious challenge to the taciturn man from Derbyshire.

I adored Rachel Rowan’s Entitled Love series of novellas, so I was eager to read her novel, set in the same world. Ms Rowan doesn’t disappoint! The aristocratic Blackton and Banberry-Thompson families have had a centuries-long friendship, living on adjoining estates. The current generation spent summers together, ranging over the woods and fields. Last year, that friendship ended. Hugo Blackton, Viscount, playboy and disappointment to his father, the Earl, attended the engagement party of Cassandra Banberry-Thompson. His behaviour resulted in the breaking of Cassandra’s engagement (much to her relief) and the breaking of Amy Banberry-Thompson’s heart. Amy had been in love with Hugo for years. However, she was under no illusions that he would pay any attention to her. Until he did. At the party, he whispered words of admiration in her ear and kissed her soundly. Amy was elated, until she heard Hugo’s cronies sniggering. He had done it for a bet! A year later. The Earl is fed up with Hug

This Pride and prejudice variation gives us two main characters who are the complete opposite of canon. George Wickham, old playmate of Fitzwilliam Darcy, becomes dissolute at Cambridge. Drawn into a coterie of young profligate aristocrats, he feels accepted. Until one day, he overhears what they really think of him. An express arrives, urging his return home as his father is dying. These two blows have a profound effect, leaving him much more receptive to his father’s final advice. So George commits to his studies, eventually becoming a law clerk. Whilst working in a solicitor’s office in Ramsgate, he comes across the young heiress, Georgiana Darcy. When he realises that a fortune hunter is plotting an elopement with Georgiana, he foils the plot with her brother’s assistance. Unfortunately, this Georgiana is very far from Jane Austen’s innocent, gullible young lady. She may be only fifteen, but words like devious, manipulative and vengeful come to mind. The presence of a benign, Georg

At the wedding breakfast of Jane Bennet and Charles Bingley, a latecomer is having a very indiscreet conversation, with Bingley’s sisters. Mr Darcy opines that perhaps Charles could have married his first love, despite his suit being rejected. The lady’s very proud father, was regretting his hasty decision. Unfortunately, Jane overhears and decides to flee, so that Charles would not be stuck with her.  Elizabeth Bennet is furious with Darcy and let’s him know it, in no uncertain terms!  Elizabeth’s dramatic exit goes awry, leading to a stumble and the appearance of compromise.  Cue the arrival of Mr Bennet, Sir William Lucas and others. All in their cups and not willing to listen to reason. Darcy is happy to do the honourable thing and marry Elizabeth. However, Mr Bennet decides that Darcy is a rake. As Elizabeth and Darcy come to love each other, they are torn apart by Mr Bennet’s determined efforts to send Elizabeth where she will not be found. This book is a brilliant rollercoaster

This short and sweet novella focuses on the stay of Jane and Elizabeth Bennet at Netherfield Park. Charles Bingley is in love with Jane. Fitzwilliam Darcy is infatuated with Elizabeth, but trying very hard not to be.  Charles sees that Elizabeth is the ideal partner for Darcy, if only he could let go of the “Darcy Pride”. When Darcy gives a less than pleasing opinion of Jane, as a match, Charles and Hurst take steps to convince Darcy of the worth of both ladies. A pleasing novella with an agreeable resolution. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

While we are familiar with matchmaking Mamas, it pays to watch out for the rarer, sneakier, devoted Father. Mr Bennet realises that Fitzwilliam Darcy is the perfect match for his witty, intelligent, stubborn daughter Elizabeth. Unfortunately, Darcy made a very poor, first impression and Elizabeth firmly believes that he is a dreadful man. The Netherfield Ball provides the opportunity for a compromise, when both Elizabeth and Darcy seek solitude to read in the library. Despite their innocent activities, discovery by Elizabeth’s gossiping Aunt Phillips seals their fate. Darcy is actually quite pleased, as he is in love with Elizabeth. He is mortified to discover that Elizabeth is devastated at the thought. So Darcy will have to work hard to win Elizabeth’s heart.  And what will the couple do when they realise Mr Bennet’s culpability? A short and sweet read. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

In this Austenesque novella, the action takes place in London.  Mr Edward Gardiner, uncle of Jane and Elizabeth Bennet, has been made a Baronet for services to Crown and Country. He invites his nieces to accompany him for the Season.  At the first ball they attend, Fitzwilliam Darcy delivers his infamous slight, dismissing Elizabeth as only tolerable. Unfortunately, the impact is much more devastating than if uttered at a country assembly. Elizabeth soon finds herself relegated to the Wallflowers, for if a man of consequence has dismissed her, Society will follow his lead.  Sadly, the rakes and lechers seem attracted by Elizabeth’s marginalised position. I enjoyed Elizabeth’s unofficial wallflower society, having spirited discussions with other ladies, slighted by Society. I cried for Elizabeth, as she is disillusioned following her exposure to the dark underbelly of the Ton. It is so well written. Darcy has to do a great deal to redeem himself, but fortunately, he is determined to suc

Fitzwilliam Darcy invites Elizabeth Bennet to a house party at Pemberley. He wishes her to befriend his sister and aid in her recovery from melancholy.  Although he doesn’t declare it, he wants to test whether his obsession with Elizabeth is just infatuation or real love, that can bridge the social chasm between them.  Elizabeth does not like Darcy but agrees, providing her sister Jane can accompany her. The goal being time with Mr Bingley, who Jane is in love with. As the party progresses, Elizabeth finds her opinion of Darcy softening. Her friendship with Georgiana makes progress but despite disclosing the events at Ramsgate, still more secrets are held back. A startling visitor reveals the secrets and all must work together to prevent disaster. This debut from Amelia Westerly is quite pleasing. There are some surprising plot developments, which seem to push propriety but nothing too outrageous. As a novella, there is sometimes a conflict between brevity and necessary depth.  I look