𝑀𝑦 𝐽𝐴𝐹𝐹 𝑂𝑏𝑠𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑜𝑛

This Pride and Prejudice variation is set in alternate dimension Regency England, which has a definite Scottish flavour (bagpipes). The cover picture is what drew me to this, a beautiful woman against a blue and gold background. This is a novella and a short one. It is from the POV of Lord Darcy and features vignettes of his encounters with Elizabeth Bennet. First, mysterious and fascinating. Next, dismissed as the daughter of a nobody. Then, object of infatuation, desire and an unexpected proposal. After which he drinks excessively. Of course, there is always a happy ever after. I feel that the brevity lead to the story feeling rather superficial. Disappointing. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Amazon review Goodreads review

In this Pride and Prejudice variation, Fitzwilliam Darcy's dreadful Hunsford proposal is interrupted.  Elizabeth Bennet had no idea that Darcy felt anything but distain for her. The sudden proposal and the offensive comments it contains have shocked and distressed her. As he details the deficiencies in her status and family, she fights back tears and fury.  It crosses her mind that accepting him and thereby exposing him to her family, would be a fitting punishment. She is just beginning to politely decline him, when Mrs Collins returns to the parsonage. Unfortunately, Darcy leaves with the impression that she accepted him.  While Charlotte Collins is comforting her, Elizabeth mentions his fitting punishment, but Charlotte believes she may be serious. When Darcy announces his engagement, the residents of Rosings Park are dismayed.  When his sickly quiet cousin Anne realises that Darcy won't marry her, the reaction is startling and violent. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwillia...

A very unusual series of Jane Austen variations.  Jane Austen appears as a close friend to Felicity Blackburn, our protagonist.  The first book Amusing Miss Austen, mirrors events from Pride and prejudice. Felicity encounters Max Fitzroy, rich, handsome and grumpy.  She is threatened with marriage to her unpleasant, clergyman cousin Mr Humbleton.  While events unfold, Jane is using it as inspiration for her book, First Impressions! The story continues in Visiting Miss Austen. Felicity, now Mrs Fitzroy joins Jane and her relatives in Bath. Felicity has been coerced into taking her niece Lucy along. Amongst their adventures they meet Dorian Hart who persuaded Felicity, Jane and Lucy to join him at his castle.  What follows is a gothic tale which owes much to Northanger Abbey. Featuring hidden passageways, mysterious unseen residents and a wicked plan to take advantage of Lucy. Felicity must extract the three of them from a rather disturbing situation. In the last ...

Following his disastrous proposal to Elizabeth Bennet, Fitzwilliam Darcy bends the rules of propriety by writing a letter to defend himself from her accusations. Elizabeth finds her opinion of him much improved. She replies to his letter, encouraging him to seek her out in Hertfordshire.  The letter never reaches him. News of a family tragedy forces her immediate return home. The Bennet sisters find themselves cast to the four winds, with no support or resources. Five years later, Elizabeth is working in service to the aristocratic Pollard family. Sadly, their treatment of their staff is distinctly less noble. Elizabeth is already exhibiting a bruise on her face, when she ventures onto the street to assist a child.  She comes face to face with a wealthy gentleman who also seeks to aid the child.  It is none other than Fitzwilliam Darcy. Embarrassed at her lowly status, she retreats down the steps, only to trip on a bucket of muddy water and land on her face. Darcy has nev...

I'll admit it, I'm a sucker for an angst filled pride and prejudice variation. And this is a doozy! Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy are forced to marry, following a compromise at the Meryton Assembly.  Mr Bennet disowns Elizabeth and sends her younger sisters to a harsh boarding school. It makes Lowood school in Jane Eyre look cushy. Darcy is convinced that Elizabeth and her family are gold diggers. His distain and bitterness know no bounds. At Pemberley, Elizabeth finds some allies and some antagonists. Thank the good Lord that Georgiana loves her. It takes a long time for Darcy to be reconciled to the marriage but when threatened with losing Elizabeth, his behaviour changes. This Darcy becomes the sweetest husband and we receive a delightful happy ever after, as expected. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

This pride and prejudice variation begins at the Meryton Assembly and ends with the Netherfield Park Ball. Fitzwilliam Darcy, slowly recovering from a duelling wound, reluctantly attends the Assembly with his friend, Charles Bingley.  When he utters the famous insult, Elizabeth Bennet has already noticed that he is grumpy because he is in pain. She puts Darcy at ease, reassuring him that she is already betrothed, so not interested in compromising him. A friendship develops between them. This Darcy is sweet and funny (although he has a vicious tongue when he thinks he has been betrayed). Both Darcy and Elizabeth are falling in love. He struggles with the knowledge that she belongs to another, while she desperately wishes that she never mentioned her peculiar betrothal. I really enjoyed this. I liked the introduction of Captain Frederick Wentworth as Elizabeth's childhood best friend. A good read. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review ...

The Galehart family have many children and not much money. So when a well heeled distant relative suggests a match to a London solicitor, Mr Galehart jumps at the opportunity. Unfortunately, twin daughters Ruth and Ruby are less impressed. Ruth is quiet and biddable, so is chosen as bride. However, Ruth has a sweetheart and is heartbroken. Her biddable nature also makes her unwilling to challenge her parents.  Ruby is desperate to spare her beloved twin, so concocts a plan to take her place at the altar. She hadn't considered the possible fallout from this fraud. Nor had she anticipated the consequences of the truth being revealed, just when she was coming to love her "husband" This is a sweet novella and well worth reading. 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 Bennet vociferously rejected the proposal of the proud and haughty Fitzwilliam Darcy. In Jane Austen's masterpiece, Darcy offers a letter explaining himself and warning Elizabeth of the danger of a scoundrel. This gothic-tinged novella explores a future without that warning. After her family is ruined, Elizabeth Bennet must make her own way in the world. The life of a governess is respectable but lonely. Not part of the family but not part of the staff. After six years as a governess, she is approached with a job offer. An anonymous client in a mystery location seems dubious. However, the salary is extremely good and so she feels compelled to accept. Elizabeth finds herself at a huge manor in Derbyshire. Delightful accommodation and food are offset by the mysterious employer and the odd atmosphere in the house. She meets her charges, six year old twins, Emma and Edward. They are delightful and engaging. Edward reminds Elizabeth of herself as a child, forever chafing at th...

Elizabeth Bennet is visiting Derbyshire with her Uncle and Aunt Gardner. On a solitary walk she meets a distraught young girl. Georgiana Darcy is in desperate need of a friend and Elizabeth provides solace.  An invitation to an informal supper with Georgiana and her companion, Mrs Annesley starts well enough. However, their burgeoning friendship soon comes to a screeching halt! Unfortunately, Georgiana's proud and haughty brother Fitzwilliam Darcy, arrives home with houseguests. He is shocked and somewhat suspicious to find Elizabeth there.  The informal supper metamorphoses into a formal dinner.  On her way to the dining room, she overhears Darcy and his houseguests disparaging her. Understandably upset, she plans to ask for transport back to the Gardners.  In her haste she knocks over valuable porcelain. She saves it from breaking, but is accused of trying to steal it.  Darcy is horrible. He orders her out of the house and off Pemberley land.  Elizabeth i...

Charles Bingley is enamoured of a Bennet lady. Unfortunately, while the beautiful, sweet Jane Bennet holds his heart, it is the Bennet Matron who is the recipient of his physical passion at the Netherfield ball! Fitzwilliam Darcy is an unwilling witness to the liaison. Bingley flees to London and goes underground, avoiding Darcy. Very soon Mrs Bennet departs for London, on a mission of mercy to care for an ailing friend.  When several weeks pass by with no sign of Mrs Bennet returning, Elizabeth Bennet is tasked with discreetly tracking her down. Darcy is searching for Bingley and regularly finds himself in company with Elizabeth who is searching for her mother.  The haut ton get wind of these encounters and weave a romance out of it! Elizabeth moves from disliking Darcy to admiring him, but is convinced he despises her and the Bennet family. Unfortunately, while Darcy is infatuated with Elizabeth, he does view her as unsuitable to be his wife. He has a great deal of growing t...

When the Militia come to Meryton, the populace are excited. None more so than the Bennet sisters. The addition of Mr Wickham (soon to be Lieutenant) is even better. Wickham's charm and charisma draws in all of Meryton and much of Hertfordshire. In fact, I felt as though I was reading a Pride and prejudice variation / Magic crossover. Elizabeth Bennet is completely in his thrall. When her Aunt Gardner warns caution, she is unimpressed.  When her new friend Fitzwilliam Darcy informs her of a vast array of red flags about Wickham, it seems to speed her to folly. So when Wickham proposes, Elizabeth is swept up in the moment and agrees. Then, suddenly Wickham backs off. When he visits a week later, he shows his true self. The betrayal is truly shocking. Somehow, Elizabeth needs to find her way out of ruin. Maybe a friend can help? Enjoyable novella. 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 Good...

When Elizabeth Bennet married Fitzwilliam Darcy, she knew life would be different. Darcy's wealth and rank mean he has moved in elite circles. However, Darcy has been keeping secrets!  So instead of living at Pemberley in Derbyshire, they go to Pemberley Castle in the Scottish Highlands. The locals are suspicious of the Sassenach new bride and some of the family are downright hostile. Then the howling starts! Enjoyable Pride and Prejudice/ shifter crossover. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

While Elizabeth and Darcy are still secluded at Darcy House after their wedding, an unwelcome visitor forces their way in.  Lady Catherine de Bourgh has already expressed her disapproval of her nephew's marriage.  Darcy is irate when she demands that Elizabeth accept her tutelage in achieving acceptance in Society.  He is utterly horrified when Elizabeth accepts, as a way to heal the breach in Darcy's family.  However, with the assistance of other members of the family, Elizabeth manages to establish a rapport with the irascible dowager.  For Lady Catherine, the arrival of an old family friend sparks memories of an unrequited love, but is there hope for more in the Autumn of their lives?  Really surprising but delightful denouement. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

While I enjoyed reading this, it bears little resemblance to a Pride and Prejudice variation. Darcy comes across Elizabeth in the countryside and within minutes they are in each others arms.  More lust at first sight than love, I think.  As the story progresses, I think that I would describe Darcy as a horndog! The man needs a perpetual cold shower.  All that said, it is quite fun. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review Amazon review

Loving this.  A sweet Darcy, feeling at home with the Bennets.  An improved Elizabeth, smart and witty but softened by wisdom. A reformed Mr Bennet, who turns his life and that of his family, after friends from University stage an intervention. So good to see Caroline being put in her place (repeatedly) Add in an evil Uncle and a venal Viscount. Watch the sparks fly! I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review Goodreads review

At first glance this is a straight body swap, with the usual opportunities for absurdity and vexation. However, the author provides us with so much more. Elizabeth Bennet has always found her mother to be flighty and exasperating, not to mention suffering from a mortifying lack of propriety.  To Mrs Bennet, ensuring the security of marriage for her five daughters is the most important thing she will ever do. She has never truly understood Elizabeth and fears for her future. After the swap, Mrs Bennet discovers what her family and Meryton Society really think of her matchmaking schemes. It is a painful realisation but improves her insights and helps her to grow. For Elizabeth, the revelations are much worse. To realise that her beloved Papa, is actually a spiteful and emotionally abusive husband who has undermined his wife's confidence for years  Elizabeth and her mother become very close, but start to wonder if they will ever switch back. Then Mr Bennet finds himself swapped, ...

This is just such a delight! Fitzwilliam Darcy is wealthy, handsome and eligible. As such, many of the Ton have tried to trap him into marriage. Following his less-than impressive behaviour in Meryton, he is viewed with disdain by the locals. When a faulty door latch results in his being trapped in the Netherfield Park library, with Elizabeth Bennet, he braces himself for cries of "Compromise!" He is rather stunned when the marriage obsessed Mrs Bennet, quietly extracts her daughter from the situation. A series of unfortunate incidents, which ought to have resulted in a forced marriage, yield only polite thanks for his assistance. Darcy discovers that if he truly wants Elizabeth Bennet for his wife, he is going to need to woo her. This Darcy is adorable and his efforts to win Elizabeth will melt your heart ❤️  I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own. Goodreads review

This pride and prejudice variation has a forced marriage scenario. Elizabeth Bennet was just in the wrong place at same time as Fitzwilliam Darcy. If only a local gossip hadn't got involved! Most of story is about Elizabeth finding her place at Pemberley with the chilly, distant Darcy. Fitzwilliam is desperately hiding his passion for Elizabeth, aware that he was delighted by the compromise, while she was devastated. There is one steamy episode, occurring sometime after marriage. Good read. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Amazon review

Elizabeth Bennet's rather terrifying grandmother was dying.  She was said to be gifted with second sight and Elizabeth wanted to ask for a prediction on the name of her future husband. So twelve year old Lizzie drags her older sister Jane to the lady's bedside. Knowing that name, colours her relationships with the men she meets in Society, as she grows to womanhood. When a new tenant arrives at Netherfield Park, excitement rises. Could this be the long awaited future husband? Unfortunately, Mr Bingley has the right name, but is only interested in Jane. His friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy views Jane as an appropriate wife for himself and seeks to woo her.  Darcy and Lizzie agree to help each other to reach their goals, but an attraction between them causes them confusion and vexation.  The novelty of Darcy pursuing Jane, and Elizabeth thinking she wants Charles is well handled, with a pleasing denouement. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. A...

Thomas Bennet believes that his wife has the power of a Siren! For why else would the studious, erudite man have married the feather-brained Fanny Gardner? He insists that his daughters must never sing before male company or servants, for infatuation might lead to compromise.  Elizabeth Bennet doesn't believe a word of it but reluctantly agrees to do her best to obey her father. For five years she keeps her word, until she is forced to sing at the insistence of the demanding Lady Catherine de Bourgh.   The charming Colonel Fitzwilliam seems immune to her charms, while Fitzwilliam Darcy positively despises her. What could possibly go wrong? When Darcy visits the Hunsford Parsonage to propose, Elizabeth stops him and tries to convince him that he has been bewitched. Darcy pleads for the chance to court Elizabeth and the ensuing interactions are appealing and fun.  A little obstacle on the way provides an appropriate seasoning of angst. I received a free copy of this bo...

I never expected an origin story for Lady Catherine de Bourgh to be a tearjerker, but this really is. There are four children born to Earl Barringer. The heir, Viscount Ashby, stolid and dull; Lady Eloise the vibrant, beautiful, perfect lady; the youngest, Lady Anne is headstrong with little care for the rules of propriety.  In the middle is Lady Catherine. Her mother's least favourite child.  She was raised to meet the exacting standards of her mother, Countess Barringer and suppressed her own feelings and opinions to achieve it.  Lady Eloise had a cradle betrothal with the wealthy, handsome George Darcy. When Eloise dies, the Countess expects Lady Catherine to step into her sister's place.  No matter that nobody asked George what he wants. Catherine is dreadfully aware that she is inferior to Eloise in every way, but still she is blamed when George finds someone more to his liking. The author portrays so well, Lady Catherine's confusion and frustration when doing e...

This pride and prejudice variation is a novella which would serve as a second epilogue to How to Marry an Accomplished Lady but is enjoyable as a stand alone short story. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mary Bennet became friends in Hertfordshire, whilst helping Darcy and Elizabeth deflect the machinations of Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Now in London for the Season, could that friendship become something more? A diverting vignette, perfect for an afternoon of coffee, cake and a comfortable sofa! I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Goodreads review

Elizabeth Bennet is visiting Mr & Mrs Collins at the Hunsford Parsonage. The odious Mr Darcy and his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam are also in Hunsford, at Rosings, home of Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Elizabeth has a very poor opinion of Darcy and while he admires her, he struggles with the inferiority of her status and family. Overhearing a conversation between Darcy and the Colonel, resolves a great many misunderstandings. Can a little Divine intervention help them overcome their pride and prejudice? Does true felicity await them? A good novella and the Christian element is not overdone. 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

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 ...