Monica Fairview's Blog, page 39
November 26, 2023
P&P The Untold Stories: Charlotte Lucas at the Netherfield Ball
Author Note: This is part of a mini-series of scenes telling the story of Charlotte Lucas’ other romance. Here are the previous parts: Part 1, Part 2
November 26, 1811
Charlotte had dressed with unusual care for the Netherfield Ball. Her dress was one she had worn only once before. The deep blue of the bodice brought out the color of her eyes, which were perhaps her best feature. At the last minute, she had torn out ...
P&P: The Untold Stories – Mr. Bennet at the Netherfield Ball
We’re up to November 26th and the Netherfield ball. Have you ever wondered what Mr. Bennet thought of the evening? Well, that was one of the questions I had the pleasure of answering. I hope you enjoy!
November 26, 1811
The night had begun as most tedious social affairs for Mr. Bennet: his wife’s shrill panics that Jane’s gown would not be fine enough to attract a man of five thousand a year, her proclamations that Lydia would be a favorite of all the officers, and of course, her conces...
November 22, 2023
P&P The Untold Stories: Darcy’s Resolution
November 23, 1811
Darcy cleared an opening on the desk in the study at Netherfield, marveling at how Bingley could find anything, let alone get work done with papers and correspondence stacked everywhere in such a careless manner. Clutter and disorder always inhibited Darcy’s ability to think clearly. His hope in retreating to the study was to find a few minutes of peace in which to write a letter to Georgiana. Taking quill in hand, he paused, uncertain w...
November 21, 2023
Giving Thanks by Jennifer Altman
Hello, friends and happy Thanksgiving to all those celebrating tomorrow!
This Sunday, November 26th, marks the five-year anniversary of my debut novel, To Conquer Pride. So, I’m reaching back into the archives today to share a Thanksgiving themed excerpt from the book–one in which Elizabeth Bennet teaches Fitzwilliam Darcy to bake a pie! 
Additionally, to celebrate my book anniversary, and to give thanks to all of YOU, the Kindle edition of To Conquer Pride is currently on sale for only $.99 fr...
November 20, 2023
More new book news!
News, news, news! Spellbound at Pemberley is now available for pre-order in ebook! Release day is December 5, and the paperback will be ready to order by December 3. Audiobook plans are still uncertain.
You can read the blurb and the first excerpt in my last post, but some people have been asking more about the series it’s part of. Spellbound at Pemberley is the first book of a trilogy called Fitzwilliam Darcy, Mage. Why a trilogy? Because this story is way too big for one book! Darcy and Elizab...
November 19, 2023
P&P:The Untold Stories A Party at the Phillips
The Lucas’ carriage stopped with a lurch. Papa had asked the driver time and time again to learn to do better, and each time he promised he would, but change never happened. How like a metaphor for life that seemed. But those were thoughts far too complex and lofty for an evening of cards at the Phillips’.
Papa helped Mama, Charlotte, and Maria from the carriage, instructed the driver, then led them to the Phillips’ door...
P&P The Untold Stories: Wickham Make a Plan
Author’s Note: When I first agreed to write this scene back in 2011, I thought it would be quick and easy. Instead it changed my understanding of the plot of Pride & Prejudice! I always thought it was coincidence that Wickham had decided to charm Elizabeth, but it’s not a coincidence at all.
If you read P&P, you’ll see that Jane Austen gives us an enormous amount of stage directions for the scene of Elizabeth’s first meeting with Wickham. We’re t...
November 18, 2023
P&P The Untold Stories: Wickham & Denny in Meryton
November 19, 1811
THE RETURN FROM LONDON BY POST was not unpleasant for Archibald Denny, lieutenant of militia, but his good humor was not only due to his traveling companion. George Wickham was an engaging sort of rascal much like himself, always ready to enjoy a drink or a barmaid. Their lively conversation made the hours in the crowded coach fly by, and before he knew it, Denny was back in Meryton.
No, Denny’s happy mood was due to two d...
November 17, 2023
P&P The Untold Stories: Mr. Collins at Longbourn
November 18, 1811
Mr. Collins was punctual to his time, and was received with great politeness by the whole family. Mr. Bennet indeed said little; but the ladies were ready enough to talk, and Mr. Collins seemed neither in need of encouragement, nor inclined to be silent himself. – Pride & Prejudice
After re-reading the letter from Mr. Collins, the son of her father’s estranged cousin, Lizzy was uneasy. She agreed with Papa when he described the man as a mixture...
P&P – The Untold Stories: Elizabeth and Jane Leave Netherfield
Good morning! We’re up to November 17th, which is a fun day when you read P&P because Elizabeth and Jane finally get to leave Netherfield after Jane’s illness. Our dear author didn’t elaborate much, but Elizabeth was sure to have some very strong feelings about their last week and returning to Longbourn.
November 17, 1811
On Sunday, after morning service, the separation, so agreeable to almost all, took place. Miss Bingley’s civility to Elizabeth increased at last very rapidly, as well as her ...
