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Meet Me at Oakham Mount
A Pride and Prejudice variation. What if Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy came to an earlier understanding, including the infamous "not handsome enough" words being uttered in a different context. But outside forces from different corners of England are attempting to keep the two apart.
391 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 4, 2013
40 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Schertz
47 books59 followersI am a retired crime lab/crime scene technician, having worked for a local police department for 15 years. Since then, I have become disabled. Forgot to get the extended warranty on the body. In my spare time, I make jewelry, am a photographer, and a full time mom and grandma.
My daughter by birth is Catie, and she is the dearest part of my life. Through her, I have 2 daughters by heart, Heather and Kristina. Through Heather and her awesome man, Stan, I have 4 amazing grandchildren, Purgi, Penne, Myles, and Persephene.
Besides my human family, I have a canine son, who is my service dog, Darcy. I also have 4 feline daughters (Salem, Lizzy, Dagonet, and Freya ). I now have 5 grandpuppies, 2 grandkitties.
Two days after I received my first ever royalty check, I adopted Darcy and Lizzy. Fitting names, I thought. And they resemble the characters. Lizzy is mischievous, yet loving, climbing up high as if she were in a tree. Darcy is extremely protective and loving. He has his shy side, which is clear when around some people, until he comes to know he can trust them.
My daughter by birth is Catie, and she is the dearest part of my life. Through her, I have 2 daughters by heart, Heather and Kristina. Through Heather and her awesome man, Stan, I have 4 amazing grandchildren, Purgi, Penne, Myles, and Persephene.
Besides my human family, I have a canine son, who is my service dog, Darcy. I also have 4 feline daughters (Salem, Lizzy, Dagonet, and Freya ). I now have 5 grandpuppies, 2 grandkitties.
Two days after I received my first ever royalty check, I adopted Darcy and Lizzy. Fitting names, I thought. And they resemble the characters. Lizzy is mischievous, yet loving, climbing up high as if she were in a tree. Darcy is extremely protective and loving. He has his shy side, which is clear when around some people, until he comes to know he can trust them.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 19, 2024
A Pride and Prejudice variation where Darcy falls for Elizabeth Bennet at the Meryton Assembly and they begin a courtship.Unfortunately other people conspire to tear them apart.
An enjoyable re-read
An enjoyable re-read
June 15, 2023
Good book
Liked the story especially when the villans get their due. Loved having lady Anne alive. Darcy was great. Me Bennet a surprise!
Liked the story especially when the villans get their due. Loved having lady Anne alive. Darcy was great. Me Bennet a surprise!
April 5, 2021
How many different ways can you attempt to kill Darcy and Elizabeth?
Rating: MA: mature-reader due to violence: graphic descriptions of violent attacks both physical and sexual [although not successful]: insanity, madness, mayhem, murder, destruction, kidnapping, evil machinations… the usual Schertz formula: Angst level: medium-to-high: Source: borrowed from KU 4-4-21: This review may contain *** spoilers ***
Villains: This book is loaded with more villains than you can shake a stick at. Wow! Nearly everyone hated, loathed, or was jealous of Elizabeth and Darcy. Yep, their courtship brought out more villains than wasps on spilled beer. This was amazing how creative Schertz was in bringing out the evil in people you would think would be safe. Let me be clear, this was a Schertz story, no one was beyond suspicion. From the beginning, someone was trying to attack, seduce, compromise, shoot, murder, or otherwise kill our dear couple. Someone was really ticked off and their identity was shrouded until near the end. Whew! It was fun trying to figure out who the mastermind was. There were so many possibilities.
What I didn’t like: There was a formatting issue with my copy of the eBook on KU. Right in the middle of the sentence, it jumped to another line as though enter was hit instead of allowing it to text wrap correctly. The story included the usual problem with lack of editing. However, I did enjoy the basic story. It actually felt like two stories as it seemed to change focus or direction in the middle. There were just too many threads to follow.
Rating: MA: mature-reader due to violence: graphic descriptions of violent attacks both physical and sexual [although not successful]: insanity, madness, mayhem, murder, destruction, kidnapping, evil machinations… the usual Schertz formula: Angst level: medium-to-high: Source: borrowed from KU 4-4-21: This review may contain *** spoilers ***
Villains: This book is loaded with more villains than you can shake a stick at. Wow! Nearly everyone hated, loathed, or was jealous of Elizabeth and Darcy. Yep, their courtship brought out more villains than wasps on spilled beer. This was amazing how creative Schertz was in bringing out the evil in people you would think would be safe. Let me be clear, this was a Schertz story, no one was beyond suspicion. From the beginning, someone was trying to attack, seduce, compromise, shoot, murder, or otherwise kill our dear couple. Someone was really ticked off and their identity was shrouded until near the end. Whew! It was fun trying to figure out who the mastermind was. There were so many possibilities.
What I didn’t like: There was a formatting issue with my copy of the eBook on KU. Right in the middle of the sentence, it jumped to another line as though enter was hit instead of allowing it to text wrap correctly. The story included the usual problem with lack of editing. However, I did enjoy the basic story. It actually felt like two stories as it seemed to change focus or direction in the middle. There were just too many threads to follow.
June 4, 2020
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, the story is not how Elizabeth and Darcy become a couple, but rather them as a couple in love dealing with their own and other people's emotional baggage! There are is so much baggage/angst in this story and multiple people who should be locked up or put in asylums.
This was a clean story with one planned, but not occurring assault scene. It was a fun read as I had to find out what tragedy would happen next and who was the master mind behind it all.
This was a clean story with one planned, but not occurring assault scene. It was a fun read as I had to find out what tragedy would happen next and who was the master mind behind it all.
June 20, 2023
I have to give kudos to this author for coming up with so many outlandish tales. Most of her villains are extremely evil and nuts to boot. This story was jo different.
March 25, 2015
My favorite P&P variations are either the ones that take on their own form or the ones that start off where JA left off. This story does the first. Lady Anne is alive and is remarried and Georgianna is only a half sister. The Wickham in this book is a very diabolical, evil creep who gathers a couple familiar creeps to join him in terrorizing Elizabeth to ruin Darcy. That part of the story was pretty scary and intense and caused some other problems for our characters. I would have enjoyed Wickhams part in the story to last longer.
I love reading different versions of Wickhams viciousness. Don't worry Carolyn is also there in all her desperation as well. Also a much more loveable Mrs. Bennet, as she actually gives Lydia a very severe lesson in disapline ( she deserved it too). I enjoyed this book overall. I always love the stories that let us see Darcy as a father.
I love reading different versions of Wickhams viciousness. Don't worry Carolyn is also there in all her desperation as well. Also a much more loveable Mrs. Bennet, as she actually gives Lydia a very severe lesson in disapline ( she deserved it too). I enjoyed this book overall. I always love the stories that let us see Darcy as a father.
February 10, 2014
I loved this book!!! I started it earlier today and could barely put it down to eat meals!! Very engaging with just the right amount of angst, though not enough for me to totally ruin my nails. ☺️ Melanie Schertz has so many great ideas for Darcy and Elizabeth that I really enjoy reading her books. Keep it coming Melanie! Any true JAFF readers would love to read this book, it moves fast and continues to maintain your attention.
January 13, 2025
A twist on canon
3 1/2 rounded up
I do enjoy the stories that Melanie Schertz brings us. Each story is unique many times outside of the box in thought and development & are enjoyable to read. I know the major issue that most reviewers have is that she could benefit from a few extra people to help edit and tighten up the stories. That being aside, they are still worth the read.
In this story, we get a different start than canon. Mr Darcy Sr dies and his widow remarries. The relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is wonderful to watch but then villians start to come out of the woodwork. We have several of the canon "bad" guys, but several new characters that must be explored. SPOILER: for those concerned, there is an assault against Elizabeth and she is hurt badly but Darcy rescues her before the worst happens. There are quite a few deaths; some sad and others we are glad. Yes, I will read this again.
3 1/2 rounded up
I do enjoy the stories that Melanie Schertz brings us. Each story is unique many times outside of the box in thought and development & are enjoyable to read. I know the major issue that most reviewers have is that she could benefit from a few extra people to help edit and tighten up the stories. That being aside, they are still worth the read.
In this story, we get a different start than canon. Mr Darcy Sr dies and his widow remarries. The relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is wonderful to watch but then villians start to come out of the woodwork. We have several of the canon "bad" guys, but several new characters that must be explored. SPOILER: for those concerned, there is an assault against Elizabeth and she is hurt badly but Darcy rescues her before the worst happens. There are quite a few deaths; some sad and others we are glad. Yes, I will read this again.
March 20, 2025
good enough!
Have been following this author for some time & from paucity of editing, some disjointed scene, time changes in storyline, leads a reader to think this is an earlier or quick production book; regardless this JAFF version shows author’s true potential (isn’t she a former murder investigator?) with the mystery angst throughout this version; also displays well conceived plotting. No epilogue (ends rather quickly imo) but def has HEA. The bad guys do cause havoc but receives equivalent rewards for their actions. ODC meet early as in cannon, fall in love quickly & story based on overcoming scads of evil which tries to destroy them as a couple and a family oh! Lady Anne still lives & a nice little side story. I enjoyed this quick read.
Have been following this author for some time & from paucity of editing, some disjointed scene, time changes in storyline, leads a reader to think this is an earlier or quick production book; regardless this JAFF version shows author’s true potential (isn’t she a former murder investigator?) with the mystery angst throughout this version; also displays well conceived plotting. No epilogue (ends rather quickly imo) but def has HEA. The bad guys do cause havoc but receives equivalent rewards for their actions. ODC meet early as in cannon, fall in love quickly & story based on overcoming scads of evil which tries to destroy them as a couple and a family oh! Lady Anne still lives & a nice little side story. I enjoyed this quick read.
August 24, 2017
This was very melodramatic and over-the-top. Lots of repetitive bits where characters rehash the goings-on from chapter to chapter, sometimes even within the same page.
My biggest peeve with the story, however, was how mental illness was depicted. More than one character exhibited stereotypical signs of "madness" and there was much talk of sending people to asylums and sanitariums. It's far too convenient for the "baddies" to be mentally ill. As a person who lives everyday with a mental illness, I found it to be rather insulting to have mental illness used as a vague catch-all for the sake of melodrama. I struggled to finish the book because of that.
My biggest peeve with the story, however, was how mental illness was depicted. More than one character exhibited stereotypical signs of "madness" and there was much talk of sending people to asylums and sanitariums. It's far too convenient for the "baddies" to be mentally ill. As a person who lives everyday with a mental illness, I found it to be rather insulting to have mental illness used as a vague catch-all for the sake of melodrama. I struggled to finish the book because of that.
March 26, 2023
4.5 Stars
I was all in on this story.
- Mystery and surprises.
- Darcy is immediately attracted to Elizabeth and begin to seek her out (I like when that happens.)
- The author never loses sight of Darcy and Elizabeth's love with all the chaos going on around them.
- There are quite a few crazy and evil characters in this book, but the story never became ridiculous. All the characters were well played.
*Mrs. Bennet deserves an honorable mention for a couple of teaching moments. That was awesome.
I was all in on this story.
- Mystery and surprises.
- Darcy is immediately attracted to Elizabeth and begin to seek her out (I like when that happens.)
- The author never loses sight of Darcy and Elizabeth's love with all the chaos going on around them.
- There are quite a few crazy and evil characters in this book, but the story never became ridiculous. All the characters were well played.
*Mrs. Bennet deserves an honorable mention for a couple of teaching moments. That was awesome.
July 17, 2017
I feel like giving up on Melanie Schertz' books as they are always melodramatic and she has a habit of regularly regurgitating what has happened as though the reader is as unaware as her characters. It may work well in fanfiction where months could lapse between chapter updates, but I got fed up and it is not just this book that has this flaw.
You'll enjoy this if you like extreme characters and high drama.
I prefer things to be more believable and in character though.
You'll enjoy this if you like extreme characters and high drama.
I prefer things to be more believable and in character though.
June 22, 2024
Fast-paced story
3.5* rounded up
As with Ms Schertz's stories, there are lots of interesting plot twists and action. Darcy's mother is alive in this story, so the family dynamics are changed. It's ODC against the bad, bad guys. And after several deaths, they get a happily ever after.
3.5* rounded up
As with Ms Schertz's stories, there are lots of interesting plot twists and action. Darcy's mother is alive in this story, so the family dynamics are changed. It's ODC against the bad, bad guys. And after several deaths, they get a happily ever after.
January 8, 2023
Unusual storyline
Goodness so many villains to follow, one disaster after another! Truly a page turner and full of surprises. The storyline was unique, at least to me. I would recommend this book to people who do not mind straying from the norm of most variations.
Goodness so many villains to follow, one disaster after another! Truly a page turner and full of surprises. The storyline was unique, at least to me. I would recommend this book to people who do not mind straying from the norm of most variations.
April 22, 2023
Impressive!!
How many insane or criminal minded people can one couple survive? Looks like all of them. This is one compelling story that is impossible to put down.
How many insane or criminal minded people can one couple survive? Looks like all of them. This is one compelling story that is impossible to put down.
July 10, 2019
Keep em coming
Yet another wonderful variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic Pride and Prejudice by Melanie Schertz. Thoroughly enjoyable as usual
Yet another wonderful variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic Pride and Prejudice by Melanie Schertz. Thoroughly enjoyable as usual
November 29, 2013
Must have been written by an armature writer or a very young inexperienced author as the writing style was juvenile. The story line originally had potential with Darcy apologizing to Lizzy right after calling her tolerable and the positive impact that had on Lizzys view of Darcy. I don't believe that Darcy would have fallen in love with Lizzy after their first meeting even before speaking to her. Isn't Darcy supposed to fall in love with her character? Her refusal to be intimidated and to agree with a man on each point; her ability to debate and have a well read mind versus just her beautiful bounty curls and laughing eyes. Darcy never has to struggle with his pride and the fact that his mother is alive but remarried after Darcys father died changing his character from heat we know. They come to an understanding much too early in the novel and Darcy declaring his intentions towards Lizzy before she knows his character was very out of place. What irked me most was the number of characters with serious mental health issues in this novel! It was too much! Spoilers Alert - the attack on Elizabeth is too dramatic especially with the course of treatment and then many attempts to harm or even kill the Darcy's goes too far. I didn't enjoy this pride and prejudice what if story at all and I've read many of them. What a shame!
April 9, 2016
At points, the story almost reads like a whodunit, leaving you wondering exactly who in the cast of villains is responsible for attempting to ruin Darcy and Elizabeth. But it takes a series of reveals to find out.
January 4, 2020
This was a book with many little plot twist. Darcy and Elizabeth have a different meeting. Darcy still puts his foot into his mouth, but has a chance to make it better. Many people want to interfere with the couple, but through all trials and tribulations, love conquers all. Recommended to read
January 26, 2018
The angst in this novel were excruciating at times. Though it went in waves which I think was very well done. It's sweet and romantic moments was a bit to sugary for my taste which is why I gave it 4 and not 5 stars.
Love at first sight for Darcy turns rapidly into a courtship to sway Elizabeth. My problem with that is that Darcy falls for her looks not her mind... A jealous Caroline stirs up a mayhem but there are more people to watch out for.
Violence, attempted rape, medical procedures and accidents are described so this is not for the faint hearted. I thought it was well done though, angst filled but not damaging to my sensibilities. The villains get there comeuppance in the end which I always appreciate.
Lady Anne has survived her spouse and are remarried in this novel which is guite unique. Georgiana is Darcy's half sister and Anne de Bourge is only mentioned.
Wickham is one of the more nasty characters I have seen in a P&P variation.
This is the first novel I have read of this author and it is definitely not the last...
Recommended this book for those who enjoy heart wrenching and teeth rattling stories.
Love at first sight for Darcy turns rapidly into a courtship to sway Elizabeth. My problem with that is that Darcy falls for her looks not her mind... A jealous Caroline stirs up a mayhem but there are more people to watch out for.
Violence, attempted rape, medical procedures and accidents are described so this is not for the faint hearted. I thought it was well done though, angst filled but not damaging to my sensibilities. The villains get there comeuppance in the end which I always appreciate.
Lady Anne has survived her spouse and are remarried in this novel which is guite unique. Georgiana is Darcy's half sister and Anne de Bourge is only mentioned.
Wickham is one of the more nasty characters I have seen in a P&P variation.
This is the first novel I have read of this author and it is definitely not the last...
Recommended this book for those who enjoy heart wrenching and teeth rattling stories.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews