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Darcy and the Young Knight's Quest #2
The Mission: He Taught Me to Hope Christmas Vignette
alternate cover edition of ASIN: B006OUSKV6
Bennet Carlton captures our imaginations in the novel He Taught Me to Hope: Darcy and the Young Knight's Quest.
Join the precocious young knight in this holiday short story as he embarks upon a mission to bring his Bennet and Fitzwilliam relations to Pemberley for Christmas, and in so doing, teaches his family to hope.
Bennet Carlton captures our imaginations in the novel He Taught Me to Hope: Darcy and the Young Knight's Quest.
Join the precocious young knight in this holiday short story as he embarks upon a mission to bring his Bennet and Fitzwilliam relations to Pemberley for Christmas, and in so doing, teaches his family to hope.
49 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 21, 2011
19 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
P.O. Dixon
88 books167 followersP. O. Dixon has authored several Jane Austen "Pride and Prejudice" adaptations, all written with one overriding purpose in mind—falling in love with Darcy and Elizabeth. Sometimes provocative, but always entertaining, her stories have been read, commented on, and thoroughly enjoyed by thousands of readers worldwide.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
December 31, 2017
“Christmas, my child, is love in action. Every time we love, every time we give, it’s Christmas.” Dale Evans
This was a clean, short read [at about 4-chapters], and the second book in the Darcy and the ‘Young Knight’s Quest’ series. It is sandwiched between book 1 [He Taught Me to Hope] and Book 3 [Hope and Sensibility]. I do not suggest reading this before reading the first book in the series. It can stand-a-lone; however, there is a lot of non-canon drama that will make you sit up, scratch your head and go ‘what???’ wondering what the heck happened or worse, when did THAT happen? Apparently, a lot came down in that first book.
“All I want for Christmas is…”
The premise of this story is simple… little Ben [Bennet Carlton, son from Elizabeth’s first marriage... what??? See what I mean] went around asking everyone about their favorite Christmas memories. He somehow got it into his head that family should be together at Christmas. And so, with the help of aunt Georgiana, he wants to have a surprise Christmas gathering for all the extended family. Little did he know that Lizzy and Darcy were estranged from the extended family… ALL of the extended family… Bennet and Fitzwilliam [including de Bourgh and especially Collins]. What??? I’ve got to read that first book.
“Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.” Calvin Coolidge
We see glimpses of each family’s reaction to receiving the invitation. There were several strange pairings that made my mouth drop [that’s what I get for not reading that first book]. Man, I did not see that coming. It was cute and funny in places, poignant and disgusting in others… especially when reading about some of the reactions… I wanted to go… really? Yeah, I was reading about the Bennet’s reaction. It seems nothing changes. Dang!! I wanted to strangle someone or two or three. Yeah… you can only guess.
This ended at 83% on my device and contained an excerpt from book 3 ‘Hope and Sensibility’ and several pages of author information.
This was a clean, short read [at about 4-chapters], and the second book in the Darcy and the ‘Young Knight’s Quest’ series. It is sandwiched between book 1 [He Taught Me to Hope] and Book 3 [Hope and Sensibility]. I do not suggest reading this before reading the first book in the series. It can stand-a-lone; however, there is a lot of non-canon drama that will make you sit up, scratch your head and go ‘what???’ wondering what the heck happened or worse, when did THAT happen? Apparently, a lot came down in that first book.
“All I want for Christmas is…”
The premise of this story is simple… little Ben [Bennet Carlton, son from Elizabeth’s first marriage... what??? See what I mean] went around asking everyone about their favorite Christmas memories. He somehow got it into his head that family should be together at Christmas. And so, with the help of aunt Georgiana, he wants to have a surprise Christmas gathering for all the extended family. Little did he know that Lizzy and Darcy were estranged from the extended family… ALL of the extended family… Bennet and Fitzwilliam [including de Bourgh and especially Collins]. What??? I’ve got to read that first book.
“Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.” Calvin Coolidge
We see glimpses of each family’s reaction to receiving the invitation. There were several strange pairings that made my mouth drop [that’s what I get for not reading that first book]. Man, I did not see that coming. It was cute and funny in places, poignant and disgusting in others… especially when reading about some of the reactions… I wanted to go… really? Yeah, I was reading about the Bennet’s reaction. It seems nothing changes. Dang!! I wanted to strangle someone or two or three. Yeah… you can only guess.
This ended at 83% on my device and contained an excerpt from book 3 ‘Hope and Sensibility’ and several pages of author information.
December 26, 2012
A few of you may remember that several months ago I mentioned my affection for a precocious young knight named Ben Carlton (an original character of P. O. Dixon's). For those of you not yet acquainted with Ben, he is Elizabeth's fatherless son in Ms. Dixon's remarkable Pride and Prejudice alternate path, He Taught Me to Hope - and he will melt your heart! In this Christmas-inspired sequel vignette, young Ben (a.k.a. Sir Lancelot) is on a mission to make this upcoming Christmas the most memorable of his young life. Recruiting Georgiana Darcy and Mrs. Reynolds to help accomplish his secret mission, Ben sets out determined to fulfill everyone's dearest wish for Christmas this year. What will Elizabeth, Darcy, and Anne say when they discover the unexpected surprises this young knight has orchestrated?
Unlike Mr. Knightley, I do approve of surprises - planning a special event or gift for someone I love always brings me such joy and pleasure. I loved seeing sweet little Ben work so diligently on giving his mother and beloved new father this special Christmas gift. His gift was more than the granting of wishes - it was a gift of reconciliation, forgiveness, and family. What a pleasant sight it was to see all the Bennets, Collinses, Darcys, Fitzwilliams, and Lady Catherine all assembled together at Pemberley - especially since there was much tension and discord between many of them at the close of He Taught Me to Hope! I only wish we saw more of what took place on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day as the descriptions were brief on those days and the conclusion seemed to come about so quickly. Nonetheless, I heartily enjoyed the half hour I spent with this merry knight and his thoughtful Christmas mission! I definitely recommend this vignette to admirers of P. O. Dixon, Pride and Prejudice alternate paths, and adorable children!
Austenesque Reviews
Unlike Mr. Knightley, I do approve of surprises - planning a special event or gift for someone I love always brings me such joy and pleasure. I loved seeing sweet little Ben work so diligently on giving his mother and beloved new father this special Christmas gift. His gift was more than the granting of wishes - it was a gift of reconciliation, forgiveness, and family. What a pleasant sight it was to see all the Bennets, Collinses, Darcys, Fitzwilliams, and Lady Catherine all assembled together at Pemberley - especially since there was much tension and discord between many of them at the close of He Taught Me to Hope! I only wish we saw more of what took place on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day as the descriptions were brief on those days and the conclusion seemed to come about so quickly. Nonetheless, I heartily enjoyed the half hour I spent with this merry knight and his thoughtful Christmas mission! I definitely recommend this vignette to admirers of P. O. Dixon, Pride and Prejudice alternate paths, and adorable children!
Austenesque Reviews
April 18, 2021
Not Pleased
This is a short story in between two other volumes that ends at 57%, followed by an excerpt for the last book. If I hadn’t already purchased the last one, I wouldn’t bother. If I didn’t like little Ben so much, I’d ask for a refund for the last book. Truly, this could have all been written as one book. This is why I hate starting a series. I feel used.
This is a short story in between two other volumes that ends at 57%, followed by an excerpt for the last book. If I hadn’t already purchased the last one, I wouldn’t bother. If I didn’t like little Ben so much, I’d ask for a refund for the last book. Truly, this could have all been written as one book. This is why I hate starting a series. I feel used.
January 3, 2019
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars.
Ben with the help of Aunt Georgiana brings both sides of the family together for Christmas. This story centers mostly around Ben and is colored by his obsession with King Arthur. Darcy's bond with his young step-son could not be any stronger if he were his biological father. Short and touching.
Ben with the help of Aunt Georgiana brings both sides of the family together for Christmas. This story centers mostly around Ben and is colored by his obsession with King Arthur. Darcy's bond with his young step-son could not be any stronger if he were his biological father. Short and touching.
December 29, 2015
This was really a 3.5 star book for me. Overall, I really enjoyed the series and this novella was a sweet Christmas story that was predictable but nicely written. Once again, the Darcy and Ben relationship steals the show, as Ben plans a special holiday surprise for ODC. I hope there's a fourth book planned for this series!
December 11, 2012
This Vingette is very short! I wish it was a bit longer, or added to He Taught Me to Hope. It was very sweet, but I wanted just a bit more!
April 4, 2012
I loved PO Dixon's "Young Knight's Quest", and this is a small continuation of that story. We see the young knight's first Christmas as a Darcy. I did feel this was too short and would of been nice as a little extra for the prior book. Just a thought. Anyway this should be read after the "Young Knight's Quest". You will simple love it!!
June 5, 2016
This follow up Christmas vignette to He Taught Me to Hope was a sweet, adorable holiday short. Ben and Georgiana set out to give Darcy and Lizzy a surprise family Christmas at Pemberley hoping for the magic of the season to work on the family bonding. Lizzy has her own surprise for Darcy.
It was quick, but a nice sequel to the original story bringing together the full cast of characters.
It was quick, but a nice sequel to the original story bringing together the full cast of characters.
October 14, 2018
World-building: A
Mythology: NA
Suspense: C
Plot-Twists: B
Girl Power: B-
Guy Hero: B+
Love Interests: B
Feels: A
Title Logic: A
For you clean-readers: this one does not have mature content.
Mythology: NA
Suspense: C
Plot-Twists: B
Girl Power: B-
Guy Hero: B+
Love Interests: B
Feels: A
Title Logic: A
For you clean-readers: this one does not have mature content.
May 24, 2014
Before I continue I must warn you that if you have not read He Taught Me to Hope you must! It is my favourite P.O.Dixon book! However it is not essential to enjoying this Vignette.
This is a short story, about one of the most adorable little boys in the world of Austenesque novels (I also love Charlie from Mr Darcy's Obsession). I first meet Ben in He taught Me to Hope and he certainly left a lasting impression. He is such a sweet boy and it is no surprise considering who his mother is. The son of Elizabeth's first marriage, Ben has never known his father as he died only a month after marrying his mother Elizabeth, so sad, I know. Ben adores Darcy and the feeling is mutual, finally Ben has the father he most desperately needs and a most worthy one indeed!
Things went awry in He Taught Me To Hope, not just leaving Aunt Catherine estranged from the Darcy's but Jane, the Bennets and Mr Collins too. Ben is so innocent and all he wants is to have everyone at Pemberley for Christmas, I know how he feels, it's a time for joy, friends, family and togetherness. So Ben is on a mission, enlisting the help of his favourite aunt Georgiana, will they succeed in bringing everyone to Pemberley? Will everyone let bygones be bygones and put their differences aside?
“Indeed. How do you feel in having Mr. Collins as your uncle?” “Better he is my uncle than my stepfather!" - P.O.Dixon
The scenes and dialogue between Ben and Darcy are so touching it really warms your heart and the bedtime scenes when Ben gets read to and tucked into bed are so lovely. Witnessing Darcy as a father only intensifies our attraction to him, especially as Ben brings out his tender side. Ben has a great imagination and in He Taught me to Hope, Darcy indulges Ben's imagination in the tale of King Arthur, so it is great to see Colonel Fitzwilliam joining in with the fun. Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship is always a pleasure to witness, which is why I love continuations and this falls into that category, albeit a short one. If you liked He Taught me to Hope you will not be disappointed, okay maybe a little as this story is way too short!!
"Kitty and Lydia’s unseemly behaviour intruded upon her Lady Catherine’s new found pleasure, and caused her to wonder at their even being at the dinner table. The younger ones out with an older sister unmarried ... heaven and earth. I have never witnessed so much cleavage on display in my life. How does one support all of that weight with a mere corset?" - P.O.Dixon
Yay, it seems P.O.Dixon has answered my prayers in regards to this book being too short. Hope & Sensibility is due to be released on 1st June and is part of the Darcy and the Young Knight's Quest Series. The first being He Taught me to Hope, with the second The Mission, so with Hope and Sensibility being the third I can only sensibility hope it is a continuation as well!!
Originally posted on My Kids led Me Back to Pride & Prejudice
This is a short story, about one of the most adorable little boys in the world of Austenesque novels (I also love Charlie from Mr Darcy's Obsession). I first meet Ben in He taught Me to Hope and he certainly left a lasting impression. He is such a sweet boy and it is no surprise considering who his mother is. The son of Elizabeth's first marriage, Ben has never known his father as he died only a month after marrying his mother Elizabeth, so sad, I know. Ben adores Darcy and the feeling is mutual, finally Ben has the father he most desperately needs and a most worthy one indeed!
Things went awry in He Taught Me To Hope, not just leaving Aunt Catherine estranged from the Darcy's but Jane, the Bennets and Mr Collins too. Ben is so innocent and all he wants is to have everyone at Pemberley for Christmas, I know how he feels, it's a time for joy, friends, family and togetherness. So Ben is on a mission, enlisting the help of his favourite aunt Georgiana, will they succeed in bringing everyone to Pemberley? Will everyone let bygones be bygones and put their differences aside?
“Indeed. How do you feel in having Mr. Collins as your uncle?” “Better he is my uncle than my stepfather!" - P.O.Dixon
The scenes and dialogue between Ben and Darcy are so touching it really warms your heart and the bedtime scenes when Ben gets read to and tucked into bed are so lovely. Witnessing Darcy as a father only intensifies our attraction to him, especially as Ben brings out his tender side. Ben has a great imagination and in He Taught me to Hope, Darcy indulges Ben's imagination in the tale of King Arthur, so it is great to see Colonel Fitzwilliam joining in with the fun. Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship is always a pleasure to witness, which is why I love continuations and this falls into that category, albeit a short one. If you liked He Taught me to Hope you will not be disappointed, okay maybe a little as this story is way too short!!
"Kitty and Lydia’s unseemly behaviour intruded upon her Lady Catherine’s new found pleasure, and caused her to wonder at their even being at the dinner table. The younger ones out with an older sister unmarried ... heaven and earth. I have never witnessed so much cleavage on display in my life. How does one support all of that weight with a mere corset?" - P.O.Dixon
Yay, it seems P.O.Dixon has answered my prayers in regards to this book being too short. Hope & Sensibility is due to be released on 1st June and is part of the Darcy and the Young Knight's Quest Series. The first being He Taught me to Hope, with the second The Mission, so with Hope and Sensibility being the third I can only sensibility hope it is a continuation as well!!
Originally posted on My Kids led Me Back to Pride & Prejudice
March 8, 2015
The Mission: He Taught Me to Hope Christmas Vignette (Darcy and the Young Knight's Quest)
Little Ben has everybody wrapped around his little finger at Pemberley. Not only his parents, but Georgiana, Lady Anne, and much of the staff he comes in contact with. One morning having joined his Da in his study in getting read for his pony ride lesson, he asked Darcy if there were any Christmas celebrations that could remember growing up. He asked, " May I forego their riding lesson today?" After answering his son to the positive, Darcy asked why? Ben responded that he was on a secret mission. He asked Anne next. All she remembered were times at Longbourn as well as Camberworth. Next he moved on not Georgiana. Not only did he want her feedback, but he needed her write the invitations. Darcy's Aunt and Uncle Matlock, Colonel Fitzwilliam, the Bennets, two families of Collins, and Lady Catherine. The Gardiners were the only family not present. Surprisingly all the family members got along amongst themselves. Aunt Catherine only complained that Elizabeth knew nothing about placement around the table for dinner. Another P. O. Dixon's variation of Pride and Prejudice.
Little Ben has everybody wrapped around his little finger at Pemberley. Not only his parents, but Georgiana, Lady Anne, and much of the staff he comes in contact with. One morning having joined his Da in his study in getting read for his pony ride lesson, he asked Darcy if there were any Christmas celebrations that could remember growing up. He asked, " May I forego their riding lesson today?" After answering his son to the positive, Darcy asked why? Ben responded that he was on a secret mission. He asked Anne next. All she remembered were times at Longbourn as well as Camberworth. Next he moved on not Georgiana. Not only did he want her feedback, but he needed her write the invitations. Darcy's Aunt and Uncle Matlock, Colonel Fitzwilliam, the Bennets, two families of Collins, and Lady Catherine. The Gardiners were the only family not present. Surprisingly all the family members got along amongst themselves. Aunt Catherine only complained that Elizabeth knew nothing about placement around the table for dinner. Another P. O. Dixon's variation of Pride and Prejudice.
January 11, 2016
The Mission: He Taught Me to Hope Christmas Vignette is a continuation of the “Darcy and the Young Knight's Quest” series by P.O. Dixon. The short story begins not long after He Taught Me to Hope ends with Elizabeth and her young son, Ben Carlton, now living at Pemberley. Ben feeling sad for Darcy because he's lost both of his parents (instead of only one like him), desires nothing more than to have Darcy experience the best Christmas ever. He elicits the help of Georgiana and together they send invitations to Elizabeth’s sisters and parents as well as Darcy’s extended family, the Fitzwilliam’s, for Christmas. Considering Elizabeth used to be engaged to Mr. Collins and is now married to Jane, this is no small task Ben has set out to achieve. However, by the end, Jane and Lizzy are the best of sisters once more.
Pearl Hewitt did an outstanding job narrating, as she does with other Jane
Austen Fan Fiction books. I particularly enjoyed her voice for the 5-year old Ben. I received a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest unbiased review.
Pearl Hewitt did an outstanding job narrating, as she does with other Jane
Austen Fan Fiction books. I particularly enjoyed her voice for the 5-year old Ben. I received a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest unbiased review.
December 13, 2012
I was super pumped when I found out there was a novella sequel to P.O. Dixon's He Taught Me To Hope. Having been disappointed that all was not tied up at the end of that novel, I jumped at the chance to read this, hoping I'd get that warm tingly feeling I get when all the conflicts in a book are resolved. Sadly I still don't have that feeling, but I'm closer than I was before.
Ben is the most adorable little character ever. He made reading this novella all worth it. It also definitely put me into the holiday spirit!
Ben is the most adorable little character ever. He made reading this novella all worth it. It also definitely put me into the holiday spirit!
February 23, 2016
Mixed Feelings...
I didn't know what to think of Ben Carlton at first, but as the story progressed I started liking him. My mixed feelings stem from the relationships that differ from Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice:" Lydia being still single at 16, Jane being married to another Mr. Collins after Charles Bingley left her, Lizzy's estrangement from her parents, and Lizzy's first marriage to Ben's father.
I didn't know what to think of Ben Carlton at first, but as the story progressed I started liking him. My mixed feelings stem from the relationships that differ from Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice:" Lydia being still single at 16, Jane being married to another Mr. Collins after Charles Bingley left her, Lizzy's estrangement from her parents, and Lizzy's first marriage to Ben's father.
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