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We are no longer the same - A Pride and Prejudice Variation
One sunny spring day, a passenger ship from America was rapidly approaching the port of London. Standing in the bow was a very pretty woman in her late twenties, with a small three-year-old girl. The woman was looking pensively at the horizon. It had been about six years since she had left her homeland, and if it weren't for the deteriorating diplomatic relations and possible war between England and America, she probably would never have returned. The truth was that when she went to America so many years ago, her situation was so different... She was certainly no longer the same...
142 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 19, 2023
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21 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 10, 2024
Lizzie and Darcy don’t get together
When Lydia runs away with Wickham, Lydia is never found and the Bennet’s reputation is ruined. For fear of Georgiana not being able find a good marriage if Darcy marries Lizzie, he doesn’t pursue Lizzie. Years go by and the stories of Lizzie’s life and Darcy’s lives are pretty interesting. They meet in Hyde park years later and the rest of the book is about them. Totally possible what-ifs and original.
I enjoyed the story and it was priced low enough to make buying it not a problem. I recommend the story. Not a long read and pleasantly enjoyable.
When Lydia runs away with Wickham, Lydia is never found and the Bennet’s reputation is ruined. For fear of Georgiana not being able find a good marriage if Darcy marries Lizzie, he doesn’t pursue Lizzie. Years go by and the stories of Lizzie’s life and Darcy’s lives are pretty interesting. They meet in Hyde park years later and the rest of the book is about them. Totally possible what-ifs and original.
I enjoyed the story and it was priced low enough to make buying it not a problem. I recommend the story. Not a long read and pleasantly enjoyable.
September 2, 2023
The story has a nice premise. But the writing is so bland that the premise doesn't really matter to the plotline at all.
I often think there are mainly two types of stories, where there's a lot of plot and where there's extremely wonderful writing. When there's a lot of plot happenings, it becomes easier to move on from bland writing, and when there's wonderful writing, even a bland plot can be made interesting. They aren't mutually exclusive at all, definitely.
This book is, however, neither. The plot could have been interesting. But the writing is very skeletal. There's not much going on in the book that does not directly serve the outline plot. The plot runs on dialogue. Everyone is always talking. There is little narration of anything beyond when the characters are not close enough to talk. Everyone's feelings are always summarised to the reader through the characters' dialogues. We don't see much reflection. It's all very bare bones writing. The dialogues are also rather stilted. There's no emotional depth felt even when the situation should demand it.
I'm also not sure how to feel about the rival lady character. There's a bit of double standards for her because in the little narration that the book has, this character seems to be at least slightly judged for the same things that Darcy is excused for. On the other hand, this was probably one of the few times the narration wasn't simply a summary of what happened here and actually took on some personal note.
So, though the author has very good premises for their stories, the writing always makes them all very similar to each other. If you've read one, you're likely to feel some sense of familiarity when reading the others.
This is definitely okay on a free website, but it's rather hard to ignore when publishing it at a price. I get that the work is translated, but I am not talking about the vocabulary or wordings at all. I am referring to the detailing in the narration - like providing the characters' internal reflections at some depth, some observations and small things that provide nuance and makes the story seem realistic.
It's two stars for me, mainly because despite everything, it's a good choice for when you don't want to put too much effort or involvement in reading, but still want to enjoy the book.
I often think there are mainly two types of stories, where there's a lot of plot and where there's extremely wonderful writing. When there's a lot of plot happenings, it becomes easier to move on from bland writing, and when there's wonderful writing, even a bland plot can be made interesting. They aren't mutually exclusive at all, definitely.
This book is, however, neither. The plot could have been interesting. But the writing is very skeletal. There's not much going on in the book that does not directly serve the outline plot. The plot runs on dialogue. Everyone is always talking. There is little narration of anything beyond when the characters are not close enough to talk. Everyone's feelings are always summarised to the reader through the characters' dialogues. We don't see much reflection. It's all very bare bones writing. The dialogues are also rather stilted. There's no emotional depth felt even when the situation should demand it.
I'm also not sure how to feel about the rival lady character. There's a bit of double standards for her because in the little narration that the book has, this character seems to be at least slightly judged for the same things that Darcy is excused for. On the other hand, this was probably one of the few times the narration wasn't simply a summary of what happened here and actually took on some personal note.
So, though the author has very good premises for their stories, the writing always makes them all very similar to each other. If you've read one, you're likely to feel some sense of familiarity when reading the others.
This is definitely okay on a free website, but it's rather hard to ignore when publishing it at a price. I get that the work is translated, but I am not talking about the vocabulary or wordings at all. I am referring to the detailing in the narration - like providing the characters' internal reflections at some depth, some observations and small things that provide nuance and makes the story seem realistic.
It's two stars for me, mainly because despite everything, it's a good choice for when you don't want to put too much effort or involvement in reading, but still want to enjoy the book.
June 28, 2023
Heartfelt
A very poignant and heartfelt variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Lorena DiChiara. It was a very engaging read.
A very poignant and heartfelt variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Lorena DiChiara. It was a very engaging read.
March 2, 2024
Beautiful story.
I’m a fan of the ‘meeting again years later’ story scenarios, and this one rates right up there with the best I’ve read.
It contains very little angst yet full of poignant, tissue wielding moments. The story reads quickly but I didn’t think it skimped on anything really important.
From the blurb you know Elizabeth is returning to England and seven years away, after building an entire new life in America following the shame brought down on the family because of Lydia’s disappearance. Looming war between the British and American governments force the Gardiners and Elizabeth and her daughter to move back to England. Elizabeth was married to a lovely man and they were happy for a short time before his tragic death. She had forgotten all about Darcy, except she had still one memento left from him from those days years before. Darcy had never forgotten her in all those years. He had lost much during that time. When they meet again both have different experiences.
What happens is truly a lovely romance. We fall in love with Darcy all over again as he falls for Elizabeth’s little girl who brings him memories of his time with Georgiana when she was small. She also brings a big heart wanting to love and be loved. It’s a precious part of the story and a great part in melting Elizabeth’s heart even faster.
The theme of ‘we are not the same,’ is reiterated throughout the book, due to events that changed everybody in the P&P world in seven years time following an event that didn’t turn out the same as canon. And I really enjoyed all those changes on Elizabeth’s and the Bennet sisters’ part. Darcy experienced much sadder changes and regrets. I see myself rereading this over the years. Definitely a keeper.
Highly recommended.
I’m a fan of the ‘meeting again years later’ story scenarios, and this one rates right up there with the best I’ve read.
It contains very little angst yet full of poignant, tissue wielding moments. The story reads quickly but I didn’t think it skimped on anything really important.
From the blurb you know Elizabeth is returning to England and seven years away, after building an entire new life in America following the shame brought down on the family because of Lydia’s disappearance. Looming war between the British and American governments force the Gardiners and Elizabeth and her daughter to move back to England. Elizabeth was married to a lovely man and they were happy for a short time before his tragic death. She had forgotten all about Darcy, except she had still one memento left from him from those days years before. Darcy had never forgotten her in all those years. He had lost much during that time. When they meet again both have different experiences.
What happens is truly a lovely romance. We fall in love with Darcy all over again as he falls for Elizabeth’s little girl who brings him memories of his time with Georgiana when she was small. She also brings a big heart wanting to love and be loved. It’s a precious part of the story and a great part in melting Elizabeth’s heart even faster.
The theme of ‘we are not the same,’ is reiterated throughout the book, due to events that changed everybody in the P&P world in seven years time following an event that didn’t turn out the same as canon. And I really enjoyed all those changes on Elizabeth’s and the Bennet sisters’ part. Darcy experienced much sadder changes and regrets. I see myself rereading this over the years. Definitely a keeper.
Highly recommended.
probably-never
January 25, 2024I’ve read this writer before and there were many editing issues.
Then it’s a separated for years story and I don’t like those.
Then it’s a separated for years story and I don’t like those.
January 22, 2025
This is a relatively quick read, and I thought it was a lovely story.
I like this author a lot and look forward to reading anything she writes.
I like this author a lot and look forward to reading anything she writes.
October 26, 2023
This story is a variation from the “Pride & Prejudice” novella by Jane Austin; It begins when Lydia Bennet and Mr. Wickham elope leaving the Bennet family in a state of shock; while in the original story, Ms. Bennet and Mr. Wickham are hastily found and forced to marry, in this story, Mr. Wickham’s body is found dead, subsequently forcing upon the Bennet family the stain of scandal. These circumstances allow Ms. Elizabeth Bennet to emigrate to the US with Mr. and Mrs. Gardner, and as time passes, she gets married and has a child.
Due to the political situation of the upcoming war of 1812, Mr. and Mrs. Gardner, along with Mrs. Elizabeth Harrison (nee Bennet) and her daughter, return to England. Almost seven years have passed since Lydia Bennet eloped with Mr. Wickham; things have changed, and so did the Bennet’s and Darcy’s, they are no longer the same.
I rate this story 5 stars because is that it opens up the possibility of new stories and new developments based on the lives of the beloved characters created by Jane Austin. The only thing that I find amiss is the presence of some characters that were present in the original novel, but not in this story.
Any fan of the Jane Austin books will love this story, as it maintains the creative style while exploring human relations from a more modern point of view.
Due to the political situation of the upcoming war of 1812, Mr. and Mrs. Gardner, along with Mrs. Elizabeth Harrison (nee Bennet) and her daughter, return to England. Almost seven years have passed since Lydia Bennet eloped with Mr. Wickham; things have changed, and so did the Bennet’s and Darcy’s, they are no longer the same.
I rate this story 5 stars because is that it opens up the possibility of new stories and new developments based on the lives of the beloved characters created by Jane Austin. The only thing that I find amiss is the presence of some characters that were present in the original novel, but not in this story.
Any fan of the Jane Austin books will love this story, as it maintains the creative style while exploring human relations from a more modern point of view.
January 18, 2025
A good, fast read
I really liked this book. It is not very long so at times feels rushed but I feel good after reading it. I really liked who the familiar characters became with age. Charlotte was not a surprise to me and I found it believable. She spent her life in the Bennet girls shadows, even Mary. Then she marries knowing she will displace Mrs. Bennet as mistress of her home only to lose that too. You will read about a bit of her life. Her bitterness and grasping does not shock me at all. The Bingley storyline was short but I wasn't surprised.
The Matlocks were believable.
Yes, I believe this is a very satisfying , shortish book.
There is only one thing that bothers me.
It is about Colonel Fitzwilliam. This story takes place 7 to 8 years after his meeting Lizzy the first time and the Colonel had already been in the military about 10 years or so when he met Lizzy at Rosings. In this book the author speaks of his nightmares, PTSD we would call it. He was talking to Darcy about this and says he killed 30 men in his military career. Were are talking about 20 years of hand to hand combat.
I do not know why this bothers me so badly but it is the only unbelievable part of the story.
Saying something vague as to numbers would have been more believable
I really liked this book. It is not very long so at times feels rushed but I feel good after reading it. I really liked who the familiar characters became with age. Charlotte was not a surprise to me and I found it believable. She spent her life in the Bennet girls shadows, even Mary. Then she marries knowing she will displace Mrs. Bennet as mistress of her home only to lose that too. You will read about a bit of her life. Her bitterness and grasping does not shock me at all. The Bingley storyline was short but I wasn't surprised.
The Matlocks were believable.
Yes, I believe this is a very satisfying , shortish book.
There is only one thing that bothers me.
It is about Colonel Fitzwilliam. This story takes place 7 to 8 years after his meeting Lizzy the first time and the Colonel had already been in the military about 10 years or so when he met Lizzy at Rosings. In this book the author speaks of his nightmares, PTSD we would call it. He was talking to Darcy about this and says he killed 30 men in his military career. Were are talking about 20 years of hand to hand combat.
I do not know why this bothers me so badly but it is the only unbelievable part of the story.
Saying something vague as to numbers would have been more believable
November 21, 2023
Nice Story
Nice story despite the editorial missteps.
After Lydia eloped with Mr Wickham, the Bennets are shunned. This, plus a few other factors, encouraged Lizzy to move with the Gardiners to America. There she married, became a mother, and truly grew up.
Darcy also married, but he was not happy. He suffered many losses, including his loving little sister! Just when he was ready to settle for a second marriage of convenience, he saw Elizabeth again.
This time he wasn't going to allow anything to prevent him from pursuing his now widowed first love.
How they come together and make a family with Elizabeth's daughter from her first marriage, is a very nice story.
Nice story despite the editorial missteps.
After Lydia eloped with Mr Wickham, the Bennets are shunned. This, plus a few other factors, encouraged Lizzy to move with the Gardiners to America. There she married, became a mother, and truly grew up.
Darcy also married, but he was not happy. He suffered many losses, including his loving little sister! Just when he was ready to settle for a second marriage of convenience, he saw Elizabeth again.
This time he wasn't going to allow anything to prevent him from pursuing his now widowed first love.
How they come together and make a family with Elizabeth's daughter from her first marriage, is a very nice story.
January 18, 2025
A pleasant read overall, despite much sadness in the story. The timeline starts earlier in this one. Lydia is never found after running away with Wickham & the Bennet family is ruined. Elizabeth goes to America with the Gardiners, marries and has a daughter, then is tragically widowed. When there are too many hostilities starting up with the USA vs. England, the Gardiners, Elizabeth, and her daughter return to England. Elizabeth and Darcy meet again. Even though they are both very different, they fall in love.
August 12, 2023
Emotional interesting intriguing
I'm not crazy over D or E married to others, but in this story it was delicately and tastefully done. I enjoyed the changes within the characters. I liked how D and E were older when they meet again.
This story was interesting from beginning to end. Some parts were tear jerker, but others were humorous. Emotional anguish is low. Well written and anyone can enjoy.
I'm not crazy over D or E married to others, but in this story it was delicately and tastefully done. I enjoyed the changes within the characters. I liked how D and E were older when they meet again.
This story was interesting from beginning to end. Some parts were tear jerker, but others were humorous. Emotional anguish is low. Well written and anyone can enjoy.
July 2, 2023
Every so often I pick up book that is utterly surprising this is one of those books. It is so good and an interesting plot very orginal and enjoyable. Some minor editing issues but not many to distract from the narrative of the book.
I recommend it highly. Enjoy.
I recommend it highly. Enjoy.
October 12, 2024
I didn't feel it...
This was a well written story. Buy, I didn't feel the chemistry between Elizabeth and Darcy. Wait... I felt it on Darcy's side but not Elizabeth's. Maybe not enough banter good or bad... She still seemed to hold back a bit. IDK 🤔
This was a well written story. Buy, I didn't feel the chemistry between Elizabeth and Darcy. Wait... I felt it on Darcy's side but not Elizabeth's. Maybe not enough banter good or bad... She still seemed to hold back a bit. IDK 🤔
July 28, 2023
This was a good variation, and despite its premise is not too angst-filled. Instead, it is quite sweet, and a testament to the power of second chances.
February 3, 2024
Will not re-read
This book is less of a story than it is a flat recitation of occurances. I found myself just skimming through it to see if anything interesting happened.
This book is less of a story than it is a flat recitation of occurances. I found myself just skimming through it to see if anything interesting happened.
February 25, 2024
wonderful!
I love this story of regrets, second chances, and mature love. Could not put it down. It awakened all kinds of emotions. Very good read.
I love this story of regrets, second chances, and mature love. Could not put it down. It awakened all kinds of emotions. Very good read.
January 11, 2025
A realistic P&P
This was a story of how it could have been. While I wish Charlotte was true —she was too jealous of the Bennett sisters.
An earlier reviewer wrote that Darcy was mostly bonding with Bella (daughter). I feel he was being a man demonstrating how he will treat the woman’s you love daughter.
While I wish Elizabeth had waited it read realistic of her marrying some one else.
Best part of the book — any part where Darcy is choosing Elizabeth. Worst part of the book. The rejection of the Lucus family both sides. That did not read true.
I recommend this story.
This was a story of how it could have been. While I wish Charlotte was true —she was too jealous of the Bennett sisters.
An earlier reviewer wrote that Darcy was mostly bonding with Bella (daughter). I feel he was being a man demonstrating how he will treat the woman’s you love daughter.
While I wish Elizabeth had waited it read realistic of her marrying some one else.
Best part of the book — any part where Darcy is choosing Elizabeth. Worst part of the book. The rejection of the Lucus family both sides. That did not read true.
I recommend this story.
Read
August 8, 2023Interesting. Realistic plot and behaviours.
I DNF’d it at 82% because it became a bit slow and I was hoping for more obstacles before the HEA.
I DNF’d it at 82% because it became a bit slow and I was hoping for more obstacles before the HEA.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews