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Trust and Honesty: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Where trust is woven in words and proven in actions, there lies the path to true love.
Inspired by his friend's unconventional romance, Darcy is determined to win back the only woman who's ever captured his heart. Yet, finding the right words proves challenging for him. Will he manage to push past his reticence and prove that he is her perfect match?
In an act of courage that defies the strictures of decorum, Elizabeth Bennet pens a letter to Mr. Darcy, hoping to heal the wounds of a proposal gone awry and her own hasty rejection. But will her nerve falter in the face of her family’s disgrace?
“Trust and Honesty” weaves a captivating retelling of the timeless romance between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, proving that sometimes, love’s truest expression is found in the words we dare to share. This novella-length book spans 54,000 words, delivering a heartfelt journey of love and redemption.
Inspired by his friend's unconventional romance, Darcy is determined to win back the only woman who's ever captured his heart. Yet, finding the right words proves challenging for him. Will he manage to push past his reticence and prove that he is her perfect match?
In an act of courage that defies the strictures of decorum, Elizabeth Bennet pens a letter to Mr. Darcy, hoping to heal the wounds of a proposal gone awry and her own hasty rejection. But will her nerve falter in the face of her family’s disgrace?
“Trust and Honesty” weaves a captivating retelling of the timeless romance between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, proving that sometimes, love’s truest expression is found in the words we dare to share. This novella-length book spans 54,000 words, delivering a heartfelt journey of love and redemption.
195 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2024
125 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
March 20, 2024
Slow beginning, but the 2nd half is lovely!
This gets off to a slowish start, with Elizabeth contemplating Darcy's letter, even months later.
It is Jane's advice to her, which gives her the impetus to do something.
Darcy, meanwhile is trying to move on and visiting with friends at a house party. There we are introduced to a new character, Lord Ashford who has been Darcy's good friend from childhood. I loved the new character. He is a good balance to Darcy and a great help too. Some cute scenes between the men, as he tries to tutor Darcy in wooing Elizabeth.
This all sets the stage for Elizabeth's trip with the Gardiners up north. Darcy is fantastic. He is a quick learner and he was determined to get his girl!
I feel a little less sympathetic towards Elizabeth. Her thoughts bordered on repetitive and I felt at times she was purposefully blind to how amazingly Darcy changed and all for her!
The 2nd half picks up speed and I adored the feel of love that practically drips off the page (tablet). When Darcy sets to express himself, he does a good job!
An enjoyable read. Looking forward to more from this author.
I received a free ARC for my honest opinion.
This gets off to a slowish start, with Elizabeth contemplating Darcy's letter, even months later.
It is Jane's advice to her, which gives her the impetus to do something.
Darcy, meanwhile is trying to move on and visiting with friends at a house party. There we are introduced to a new character, Lord Ashford who has been Darcy's good friend from childhood. I loved the new character. He is a good balance to Darcy and a great help too. Some cute scenes between the men, as he tries to tutor Darcy in wooing Elizabeth.
This all sets the stage for Elizabeth's trip with the Gardiners up north. Darcy is fantastic. He is a quick learner and he was determined to get his girl!
I feel a little less sympathetic towards Elizabeth. Her thoughts bordered on repetitive and I felt at times she was purposefully blind to how amazingly Darcy changed and all for her!
The 2nd half picks up speed and I adored the feel of love that practically drips off the page (tablet). When Darcy sets to express himself, he does a good job!
An enjoyable read. Looking forward to more from this author.
I received a free ARC for my honest opinion.
May 30, 2024
Post the Hunsford proposal Elizabeth finds herself rereading that letter from him over and over again. In this story Jane acts as an adviser to her sister. (Although she has Bingley's desertion to deal with on her own). Jane advises Elizabeth to write Darcy a letter. And she does. Although the letter is not forwarded to Darcy in a timely manner, he and Elizabeth meet again as the Gardiners take Elizabeth on that trip to Lambton and tour Pemberley.
Just as the two have reached an agreement Jane's letter arrives about Lydia's elopement. And although Darcy claims a relationship with Wickham through marriage with Elizabeth will not deter how he feels about her Elizabeth worries that although Darcy says he loves her now will things change over the years as they did for her parents.
Darcy gets advice how how to woo a woman from his friend Ashton, who has had his own issues in courtship.
The Wickham thread has a different spin on it, which I liked. Although Lydia is as bratty as ever.
There are many letters in this story: most towards the end and in the epilogue. One thing that was missing for me is that although two children were mentioned in the first epilogue letters 30 years later we don't "hear" if there were any other children.
Just as the two have reached an agreement Jane's letter arrives about Lydia's elopement. And although Darcy claims a relationship with Wickham through marriage with Elizabeth will not deter how he feels about her Elizabeth worries that although Darcy says he loves her now will things change over the years as they did for her parents.
Darcy gets advice how how to woo a woman from his friend Ashton, who has had his own issues in courtship.
The Wickham thread has a different spin on it, which I liked. Although Lydia is as bratty as ever.
There are many letters in this story: most towards the end and in the epilogue. One thing that was missing for me is that although two children were mentioned in the first epilogue letters 30 years later we don't "hear" if there were any other children.
September 5, 2024
This was a pretty nice debut, well edited. Months afterwards, Elizabeth is still excessively obsessed with Darcy's letter, even missing dinner because she wants to fondle it, and Jane tells her to write him back. But he does not respond so when they meet again she thinks he rejected her overture despite making it clear that he's still into her. After they get together she still has more objections. These seem rather nonsensical at times. The happy ever after consists of more letters.
Steam level: kissing and euphemistic wedding night discussions.
Original review:
I read the free sample and put the book down as a maybe. Elizabeth is obsessed with Darcy's letter and Jane tells her to write him back. But Darcy doesn't respond and he may not have received it. He's at a house party with a viscount and Bingley has had several angels since Jane.
Steam level: kissing and euphemistic wedding night discussions.
Original review:
I read the free sample and put the book down as a maybe. Elizabeth is obsessed with Darcy's letter and Jane tells her to write him back. But Darcy doesn't respond and he may not have received it. He's at a house party with a viscount and Bingley has had several angels since Jane.
April 3, 2025
She finally says yes!
Audiobook Review:
I enjoyed Leah Page’s debut novel, Trust and Honesty. The ‘What if Elizabeth answered Darcy’s letter?’ premise is a good one. I was glad when he finally read it! In fact, all the letters between Darcy and Elizabeth were a highlight—full of feeling and lovely, believable prose. I also thought the scenes at Pemberley were really well done, with just the right balance of tension and hope.
The only thing that didn’t quite sit right with me was Elizabeth’s reaction after Lydia’s elopement. She’d already accepted him, and he’d been nothing but patient and steady. At that point, I wanted to see her trust him a little more. I understood why she got scared—she didn’t want a marriage like her parents’ and worried Darcy might come to regret her—but her ‘why’ still felt a little weak. Her reasons made sense on ‘paper’, but emotionally they didn’t quite convince me. Darcy, on the other hand, showed strength in his resolve to woo and convince her to finally say yes.
Harrie Dobby is a new-to-me narrator, and I really enjoyed her performance. I found her accent articulate and engaging—velvety and polished. Pronunciations were mostly good—I had one tiny quibble with the French madame rather than the English madam for the Regency setting—I’m not sure how it was spelled in the book itself. While I never doubted who was speaking at any given time, I’d like to see Dobby try to perform the male voices with a bit more resonance and power where the dialogue commands it.
I wouldn’t hesitate to purchase this narrator again, and I also look forward to reading or listening to Leah Page in the future.
Audiobook Review:
I enjoyed Leah Page’s debut novel, Trust and Honesty. The ‘What if Elizabeth answered Darcy’s letter?’ premise is a good one. I was glad when he finally read it! In fact, all the letters between Darcy and Elizabeth were a highlight—full of feeling and lovely, believable prose. I also thought the scenes at Pemberley were really well done, with just the right balance of tension and hope.
The only thing that didn’t quite sit right with me was Elizabeth’s reaction after Lydia’s elopement. She’d already accepted him, and he’d been nothing but patient and steady. At that point, I wanted to see her trust him a little more. I understood why she got scared—she didn’t want a marriage like her parents’ and worried Darcy might come to regret her—but her ‘why’ still felt a little weak. Her reasons made sense on ‘paper’, but emotionally they didn’t quite convince me. Darcy, on the other hand, showed strength in his resolve to woo and convince her to finally say yes.
Harrie Dobby is a new-to-me narrator, and I really enjoyed her performance. I found her accent articulate and engaging—velvety and polished. Pronunciations were mostly good—I had one tiny quibble with the French madame rather than the English madam for the Regency setting—I’m not sure how it was spelled in the book itself. While I never doubted who was speaking at any given time, I’d like to see Dobby try to perform the male voices with a bit more resonance and power where the dialogue commands it.
I wouldn’t hesitate to purchase this narrator again, and I also look forward to reading or listening to Leah Page in the future.
April 4, 2024
trust and honesty
Three word titles are very popular for JAFF variations but IMHO this book. The book is about FEAR and how difficult it is for Lizzy to get over her fear she might enter into a terrible marriage similar to her parents. Her mother has disparaged Lizzy her entire life and her father has teased her in a hurting way also. If not for Jane, her life would have been far worse. If she marries she will not have Jane to offer solace to her.
Other negative events happen so a HEA seems impossible to Lizzy and to the reader also. I like the story but I wish it had more “things” happening. A tad Johnny-one-Note for me.
Three word titles are very popular for JAFF variations but IMHO this book. The book is about FEAR and how difficult it is for Lizzy to get over her fear she might enter into a terrible marriage similar to her parents. Her mother has disparaged Lizzy her entire life and her father has teased her in a hurting way also. If not for Jane, her life would have been far worse. If she marries she will not have Jane to offer solace to her.
Other negative events happen so a HEA seems impossible to Lizzy and to the reader also. I like the story but I wish it had more “things” happening. A tad Johnny-one-Note for me.
April 22, 2024
Very nice
A few months after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford Parsonage, Elizabeth deeply regrets her harsh words and hasty rejection of Darcy. She secretly cherishes his letter to her, and mourns that there won't be an opportunity for them to meet and perhaps have a second chance. Meanwhile, Darcy is also miserable and can't seem to shake his incessant longing for Elizabeth. Then they each are heartened by suggestions on how they might move forward. Jane Bennett suggests that Elizabeth write a letter to Mr Darcy explaining her change of heart. Darcy learns that a close friend of his had a similar experience with his now beloved wife, and that this friend wouldn't take no for an answer, and aggressively wooed his wife until she accepted him. They each decide to follow these suggestions.
It's my first time reading this author, and I hope she creates more JAFF. The book is well written, well edited, and the story is engaging. This is a swoon worthy Darcy, and it's nice to have him so singled minded in his pursuit of Elizabeth rather that just mooning around. There's a lot of letter writing going on, and it's romantic, eloquent, and lovely.
I deducted a star because of my annoyance with the Elizabeth character. All is well until Elizabeth and Darcy are reunited, and then the word that comes to mind for her is "ninny." Particularly after the Lydia debacle, Elizabeth becomes strange and contradictory. Just when you want our beloved Lizzy to show her courage and determination, she fizzles.
However, all ends well, and it's satisfying. I recommend this book for a romantic and melodramatic tale.
A few months after the disastrous proposal at Hunsford Parsonage, Elizabeth deeply regrets her harsh words and hasty rejection of Darcy. She secretly cherishes his letter to her, and mourns that there won't be an opportunity for them to meet and perhaps have a second chance. Meanwhile, Darcy is also miserable and can't seem to shake his incessant longing for Elizabeth. Then they each are heartened by suggestions on how they might move forward. Jane Bennett suggests that Elizabeth write a letter to Mr Darcy explaining her change of heart. Darcy learns that a close friend of his had a similar experience with his now beloved wife, and that this friend wouldn't take no for an answer, and aggressively wooed his wife until she accepted him. They each decide to follow these suggestions.
It's my first time reading this author, and I hope she creates more JAFF. The book is well written, well edited, and the story is engaging. This is a swoon worthy Darcy, and it's nice to have him so singled minded in his pursuit of Elizabeth rather that just mooning around. There's a lot of letter writing going on, and it's romantic, eloquent, and lovely.
I deducted a star because of my annoyance with the Elizabeth character. All is well until Elizabeth and Darcy are reunited, and then the word that comes to mind for her is "ninny." Particularly after the Lydia debacle, Elizabeth becomes strange and contradictory. Just when you want our beloved Lizzy to show her courage and determination, she fizzles.
However, all ends well, and it's satisfying. I recommend this book for a romantic and melodramatic tale.
July 25, 2024
Is book imagines how Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy find their happiness after the Hunsford proposal. She must overcome her anxiety and trust feelings and he must communicate and display his feelings.
At times I wanted to shake Elizabeth and she fights herself for so long in the book. The letter mentioned in the blurb is barely an event. It does create some clarity to their situation.
At times I wanted to shake Elizabeth and she fights herself for so long in the book. The letter mentioned in the blurb is barely an event. It does create some clarity to their situation.
March 20, 2024
Congratulations to Leah Page on her first P&P story and I can imagine that it takes courage to do something like this. Courage is a theme that is addressed in this story as Elizabeth struggles with throughout the book. Others around her see what is the best thing for her (like many of us, we are blind when we are in the midst of things but those outside can see clearly) and they encourage her to do what she knows she wants - she just has to admit it to herself and see through her fears.
This is a post Huntsford story where we pick up with Elizabeth and Jane as Jane is the one who is consoling Elizabeth (a role reversal now). Elizabeth is filled with regret for her actions and her misjudgments of people and characters which Darcy's letter clarified for her. I was amazed that it was Jane who suggested a return letter but it worked, it just took time as Darcy was gone to one of his childhood friends (Lord Ashford). Lord Ashford reminded me of a cross between Darcy and Col F, I had to chuckle when Lord Ashford shared his story of how he married his wife. Darcy has the courage to stand up and fight for Elizabeth (again the courage theme) and this courage serves him well. Letters play an important role in this story as we have found that Darcy does not say the right things always when he is moody and that she does not always respond correctly too. These letters help clear the air and gives each other the strength to do what needs to be done. There were several parts that I enjoyed including Darcy telling Elizabeth about his parents relationship and what his father did for his mother - it was very touching. I thought it was sweet when Darcy told Elizabeth that he will keep trying and then with this it helps Elizabeth process her fears.
I did receive an advanced review copy for free, and then I borrowed a final copy via KU to see if there were any changes. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a post Huntsford story where we pick up with Elizabeth and Jane as Jane is the one who is consoling Elizabeth (a role reversal now). Elizabeth is filled with regret for her actions and her misjudgments of people and characters which Darcy's letter clarified for her. I was amazed that it was Jane who suggested a return letter but it worked, it just took time as Darcy was gone to one of his childhood friends (Lord Ashford). Lord Ashford reminded me of a cross between Darcy and Col F, I had to chuckle when Lord Ashford shared his story of how he married his wife. Darcy has the courage to stand up and fight for Elizabeth (again the courage theme) and this courage serves him well. Letters play an important role in this story as we have found that Darcy does not say the right things always when he is moody and that she does not always respond correctly too. These letters help clear the air and gives each other the strength to do what needs to be done. There were several parts that I enjoyed including Darcy telling Elizabeth about his parents relationship and what his father did for his mother - it was very touching. I thought it was sweet when Darcy told Elizabeth that he will keep trying and then with this it helps Elizabeth process her fears.
I did receive an advanced review copy for free, and then I borrowed a final copy via KU to see if there were any changes. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
March 20, 2024Did a Midwest goodbye and DNF’ed at 62%
March 20, 2024
After receiving Darcy's letter in Kent Elizabeth has come to regret her violent rejection of Darcy's proposal. She comes to the conclusion that, if she had only allowed herself the time to know him better, she might have come to like and even love him. Picking up all her courage she pens a letter to him telling him about her feelings of regret.
In the meantime Darcy is as violently in love as ever. After hearing about his friend's unusual courtship and that he, nevertheless, won the hand of his wife after being rejected, Darcy is determined to win Elizabeth back by wooing her the way she deserves.
Then Darcy and Elizabeth encounter each other at Pemberley again. Will they finally admit their feelings to one another to find happiness together? Will an understanding withstand future trials? And has Elizabeth enough courage to finally admit to herself that she is in love with Darcy?
The book is really lovely and very well written by the author Leah Page. In the whole book Darcy and Elizabeth are in love. First secretly and unbeknownst to the other, later they confide in each other. But being in love does not mean that the path is smooth. Both need to learn to trust and be honest with one another. I like the journey they take together to commit themselves to a life together in love, trust and honesty.
I like this portrait of Darcy very much. He is so much in love and even shows it. He will do everything to win Elizabeth's heart. I like that he is willing to take advice and act on it. His friend Lord Ashford is of great help to him. Through him Darcy finally comprehends that it needs more to woo a Lady than to proclaim his ardent love.
Elizabeth is in this version very much in love with Darcy after she received his letter in Kent. First she can't admit it but then she acts in writing a letter to Darcy. She is a bit insecure but this insecurity is later explained in a way one can understand her restraint. I like that she is very close to her aunt and uncle and that her aunt is more like a mother to her, giving her the understanding, strength and impulses she needs to finally comprehend her feelings and fears.
The only real villain here is Wickham in his usual way. But I really like the new found solution in dealing with Lydia's and Wickham's elopement. You need to read for yourself whether you agree with me 😉
The book contains several very sweet letters between Darcy and Elizabeth because they write to each other several times throughout the book. It may not be proper for a gentleman and a lady, both unwed, to have correspondence but I can totally understand the feeling that one can express oneself better in a letter than in person. And in Elizabeth's case it's the only chance to express her feelings because Darcy isn't there to tell him personally. And I like that writing letters will always be an important part of Darcy's and Elizabeth's life.
If you like to know how a letter from Elizabeth to Darcy can change their acquaintance and how they, with trust and honesty, find a way to be together, you should definitely read this book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In the meantime Darcy is as violently in love as ever. After hearing about his friend's unusual courtship and that he, nevertheless, won the hand of his wife after being rejected, Darcy is determined to win Elizabeth back by wooing her the way she deserves.
Then Darcy and Elizabeth encounter each other at Pemberley again. Will they finally admit their feelings to one another to find happiness together? Will an understanding withstand future trials? And has Elizabeth enough courage to finally admit to herself that she is in love with Darcy?
The book is really lovely and very well written by the author Leah Page. In the whole book Darcy and Elizabeth are in love. First secretly and unbeknownst to the other, later they confide in each other. But being in love does not mean that the path is smooth. Both need to learn to trust and be honest with one another. I like the journey they take together to commit themselves to a life together in love, trust and honesty.
I like this portrait of Darcy very much. He is so much in love and even shows it. He will do everything to win Elizabeth's heart. I like that he is willing to take advice and act on it. His friend Lord Ashford is of great help to him. Through him Darcy finally comprehends that it needs more to woo a Lady than to proclaim his ardent love.
Elizabeth is in this version very much in love with Darcy after she received his letter in Kent. First she can't admit it but then she acts in writing a letter to Darcy. She is a bit insecure but this insecurity is later explained in a way one can understand her restraint. I like that she is very close to her aunt and uncle and that her aunt is more like a mother to her, giving her the understanding, strength and impulses she needs to finally comprehend her feelings and fears.
The only real villain here is Wickham in his usual way. But I really like the new found solution in dealing with Lydia's and Wickham's elopement. You need to read for yourself whether you agree with me 😉
The book contains several very sweet letters between Darcy and Elizabeth because they write to each other several times throughout the book. It may not be proper for a gentleman and a lady, both unwed, to have correspondence but I can totally understand the feeling that one can express oneself better in a letter than in person. And in Elizabeth's case it's the only chance to express her feelings because Darcy isn't there to tell him personally. And I like that writing letters will always be an important part of Darcy's and Elizabeth's life.
If you like to know how a letter from Elizabeth to Darcy can change their acquaintance and how they, with trust and honesty, find a way to be together, you should definitely read this book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of the book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 5, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up.
UPDATE 2025: I just finished the audiobook. The narrator was new-to-me. She was okay - not terrible but not great as she has something of a high-pitched little girl type voice. I would hesitate to buy a future audiobook with her narrating.
When listening to the story, I found myself liking it less than when I originally read it. Elizabeth's dithering and doubt really irritated me. Based on everything that Darcy did and said, it made no sense for her to believe she had lost him forever and for her to have such doubts.
I've adjusted my rating to 3-stars. I read the eBook through KU, and the audiobook was on deep discount during the most recent Audible sale. I don't plan on keeping it in my library.
UPDATE 2025: I just finished the audiobook. The narrator was new-to-me. She was okay - not terrible but not great as she has something of a high-pitched little girl type voice. I would hesitate to buy a future audiobook with her narrating.
When listening to the story, I found myself liking it less than when I originally read it. Elizabeth's dithering and doubt really irritated me. Based on everything that Darcy did and said, it made no sense for her to believe she had lost him forever and for her to have such doubts.
I've adjusted my rating to 3-stars. I read the eBook through KU, and the audiobook was on deep discount during the most recent Audible sale. I don't plan on keeping it in my library.
June 12, 2024
Dear author,
It is official your book is part of my life now, for i spent three days trying to read it as slow as possible so it doesn’t end. The fervent love Elizabeth and Darcy have for each other can be felt through the pages of this book.
Additionally, the epilogue is what i would call a reader’s dream come true! It was great to see the timeline of their relationship plus the little updates every other year. I can easily say it brought tears to my eyes.
Keep up the good work and thank you for writing this book!
It is official your book is part of my life now, for i spent three days trying to read it as slow as possible so it doesn’t end. The fervent love Elizabeth and Darcy have for each other can be felt through the pages of this book.
Additionally, the epilogue is what i would call a reader’s dream come true! It was great to see the timeline of their relationship plus the little updates every other year. I can easily say it brought tears to my eyes.
Keep up the good work and thank you for writing this book!
March 27, 2024
Nice
What I liked:
- Short and sweet.
- I have always been a fan of Elizabeth expressing her love.
What I didn't care for:
- Darcy's letter from Hunsford is often considered a romantic keepsake in some P and P stories. Is it a wake-up call? Yes. However, I find the letter defensive and humiliating, and it could ruin Georgiana's reputation if it were to be discovered. I don't understand what she saw in that letter to read it repeatedly.
What I liked:
- Short and sweet.
- I have always been a fan of Elizabeth expressing her love.
What I didn't care for:
- Darcy's letter from Hunsford is often considered a romantic keepsake in some P and P stories. Is it a wake-up call? Yes. However, I find the letter defensive and humiliating, and it could ruin Georgiana's reputation if it were to be discovered. I don't understand what she saw in that letter to read it repeatedly.
March 30, 2024
Such a wonderful read.
I love a book that focus on Elizabeth and Darcy working through their misunderstanding to find love. Darcy
was constant in his pursuit of her and I love his perseverance in not giving up on her. The letters they wrote to each others were so romantic. Everyone should have a Darcy in their life.
I love a book that focus on Elizabeth and Darcy working through their misunderstanding to find love. Darcy
was constant in his pursuit of her and I love his perseverance in not giving up on her. The letters they wrote to each others were so romantic. Everyone should have a Darcy in their life.
March 25, 2024
A very sweet but not saccharine sweet story
I loved this one. It is billed as a novella but I found it lasted longer than normal.
It must be the naughty child in me that loved the break in propriety when Elizabeth and Darcy exchanged letters.
The main characters in this story are the Darcys, the Gardiners Jane and briefly Lydia and Whickham.
I loved the ending too
I loved this one. It is billed as a novella but I found it lasted longer than normal.
It must be the naughty child in me that loved the break in propriety when Elizabeth and Darcy exchanged letters.
The main characters in this story are the Darcys, the Gardiners Jane and briefly Lydia and Whickham.
I loved the ending too
May 4, 2024
2.5/5 - Mediocre fluff
DNF @ 66%
It was mostly ok, but it started to grate on me after a while. It's definitely a fluff story, which I don't mind, but the fluff wasn't romantic enough for me. It verged on boring.
The story also felt clumsy at times, with characters saying odd things and the conflict being so overused.
DNF @ 66%
It was mostly ok, but it started to grate on me after a while. It's definitely a fluff story, which I don't mind, but the fluff wasn't romantic enough for me. It verged on boring.
The story also felt clumsy at times, with characters saying odd things and the conflict being so overused.
August 11, 2024
I couldn't finish this variation. I stopped at 64% I didn't like this Darcy who needed advice from his friend and sister to woe Elizabeth. I couldn't like this frightened Elizabeth who clearly doesn't know what she wants. I always fail to appreciate an insecure Elizabeth. When I began to think that Darcy should abandon her for good, I knew it was time to quit.
January 21, 2025
Somewhat bland and although little happened, they dragged it out for too long.
Yes, yes, he loves her so very much, but two or three love letters less would have sufficed for me.
It was exhausting to listen to Lizzys unnecessary back and forth, knowing what would ultimately come anyway it was not suspenseful, just annoying.
Yes, yes, he loves her so very much, but two or three love letters less would have sufficed for me.
It was exhausting to listen to Lizzys unnecessary back and forth, knowing what would ultimately come anyway it was not suspenseful, just annoying.
Read
April 4, 2024DNF when they get together, because there were too many pages left before the end. Nice plot. A bit overly romantic. Some sections could have been shorter.
September 12, 2024
A lovely and romantic story! The writing is excellent, with much swoonworthy romantic letters between Darcy and Elizabeth. We also find that Jane was lucky to have escaped Mr. Bingley, and it was good to see that Darcy had at least one good friend in Viscount Ashford who was a sensible man. His story to Darcy of how his own wife refused his first offer of marriage, and finally agreed to marry him after he wooed her for several months, put the idea into Darcy's mind that he should try the same thing with Elizabeth. Finding her at Pemberley, he starts on this immediately. Unbeknownst to him, Elizabeth wrote him a letter telling of her regrets at her misunderstanding of him and her cruel words of her refusal of his proposal. Because of his travels he does not get the letter until he is at Pemberley for a couple of days, and he goes to her and they become engaged.
But before they even have a chance to tell anyone, the Lydia and Wickham debacle interferes and destroys Elizabeth's confidence in the permanence of Darcy's love. She worries a bit too much about Darcy coming to regret marrying her and tying himself to being a relation of the hated Wickham. Seeing the relationship of her parents has given her a fear of having the same thing happen in her own marriage. I felt that her stubbornness dragged on a bit too much, since she could just as easily have been concerned that he might have eventually decided he shouldn't have married so far beneath him, and yet she didn't worry about that at all before the Lydia and Wickham disaster. However, this gave Darcy a chance to spend more time wooing her and writing more romantic letters, so it wasn't all bad, haha. She finally realizes that if she rejects Darcy, she will *always* have the pain of being without him, while if she accepts him, the pain of losing his love is only a small possibility in the future that may not even happen.
And while the epilogue contained wonderfully romantic letters between the two of them, I would have liked to find out more about some of the other characters in the story.
I loved the book and highly recommend it to any JAFF lover!
But before they even have a chance to tell anyone, the Lydia and Wickham debacle interferes and destroys Elizabeth's confidence in the permanence of Darcy's love. She worries a bit too much about Darcy coming to regret marrying her and tying himself to being a relation of the hated Wickham. Seeing the relationship of her parents has given her a fear of having the same thing happen in her own marriage. I felt that her stubbornness dragged on a bit too much, since she could just as easily have been concerned that he might have eventually decided he shouldn't have married so far beneath him, and yet she didn't worry about that at all before the Lydia and Wickham disaster. However, this gave Darcy a chance to spend more time wooing her and writing more romantic letters, so it wasn't all bad, haha. She finally realizes that if she rejects Darcy, she will *always* have the pain of being without him, while if she accepts him, the pain of losing his love is only a small possibility in the future that may not even happen.
And while the epilogue contained wonderfully romantic letters between the two of them, I would have liked to find out more about some of the other characters in the story.
I loved the book and highly recommend it to any JAFF lover!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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August 31, 2025DNF at 53%
I find the writing kinda bland, the dialogues dry and Elizabeth very much ooc. She writes Darcy a letter basically asking him to propose again, worries about inaction when she comes across him at Pemberley. When he finally finds the letter and comes quickly to her and propose, she says she loves him and accepts him. But the next day, when she finds news of Lydia's elopement she tries to break the engagement because she thinks he will slowly resent the connection to Wickham. He has persisted in his love for even after the harsh rejection and still she doubts him as though he is shallow. The book treats it as something perfectly ok, and that its due to her parents marriage (what even is the similarity between the 2 instances) and that Darcy has to prove it to Elizabeth. Poor guy. Canon Elizabeth would never behave like this and hurt Darcy after everything he has done.
I also didn't like the letter she wrote. At that time, she doesn't think she is in love with him. But instead of simply writing a letter of apology or clarifying things, her letter is basically saying she regretted her refusal and wanted him to come to her and pursue her again. The entire letter is filled with that. Idk how to feel about an Elizabeth who'd write a letter like this to a man she knows who loves her and whom she doesn't love. Its as though she is playing with his feelings and using him. These things combined make this Elizabeth too ooc and unlikeable also.
I find the writing kinda bland, the dialogues dry and Elizabeth very much ooc. She writes Darcy a letter basically asking him to propose again, worries about inaction when she comes across him at Pemberley. When he finally finds the letter and comes quickly to her and propose, she says she loves him and accepts him. But the next day, when she finds news of Lydia's elopement she tries to break the engagement because she thinks he will slowly resent the connection to Wickham. He has persisted in his love for even after the harsh rejection and still she doubts him as though he is shallow. The book treats it as something perfectly ok, and that its due to her parents marriage (what even is the similarity between the 2 instances) and that Darcy has to prove it to Elizabeth. Poor guy. Canon Elizabeth would never behave like this and hurt Darcy after everything he has done.
I also didn't like the letter she wrote. At that time, she doesn't think she is in love with him. But instead of simply writing a letter of apology or clarifying things, her letter is basically saying she regretted her refusal and wanted him to come to her and pursue her again. The entire letter is filled with that. Idk how to feel about an Elizabeth who'd write a letter like this to a man she knows who loves her and whom she doesn't love. Its as though she is playing with his feelings and using him. These things combined make this Elizabeth too ooc and unlikeable also.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2024
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. A captivating retelling of the timeless romance between Elizabeth Bennett and Fitzwilliam Darcy, proving the sometimes love’s truest expression is found in the words we dare to share. Where trust is woven in words and proven in actions, there lies the path to true love. A heartfelt journey of love and redemption. Inspired by his friend’s unconventional romance, Darcy is determined to back the only woman who’s ever captured his heart; yet, finding the right words proves challenging for him. Will he manage to push past his reticence and prove that he is her perfect match? In an act of courage that defies the structures of decorum, Elizabeth pens a letter to Darcy, hoping to heal the wounds of a proposal gone awry and her own hasty rejection. Will her nerves falter in the face of her family’s disgrace? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation. A captivating retelling of the timeless romance between Elizabeth Bennett and Fitzwilliam Darcy, proving the sometimes love’s truest expression is found in the words we dare to share. Where trust is woven in words and proven in actions, there lies the path to true love. A heartfelt journey of love and redemption. Inspired by his friend’s unconventional romance, Darcy is determined to back the only woman who’s ever captured his heart; yet, finding the right words proves challenging for him. Will he manage to push past his reticence and prove that he is her perfect match? In an act of courage that defies the structures of decorum, Elizabeth pens a letter to Darcy, hoping to heal the wounds of a proposal gone awry and her own hasty rejection. Will her nerves falter in the face of her family’s disgrace? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. I highly recommend to everyone.
April 21, 2024
Still reeling from her refusal, Fitzwilliam Darcy isn't quite ready to give up, so he gets help.
This delightful story introduces us to a few new friends of Mr. Darcy, one such friend being , Vicount Ashford. Their long- standing friendship , along with Lord Ashford's similar experience , make him the best one to offer much-needed encouragement to Darcy. The main piece of advice? Three thinsgs : 1.) Do not give up, 2.) Talk to her, find out what her feelings are, 3.) Write her letters expressing your own hopes, fears, and assurances of your steadfastness. Needless to say, this proved very interesting. Sit back, relax and enjoy!
This delightful story introduces us to a few new friends of Mr. Darcy, one such friend being , Vicount Ashford. Their long- standing friendship , along with Lord Ashford's similar experience , make him the best one to offer much-needed encouragement to Darcy. The main piece of advice? Three thinsgs : 1.) Do not give up, 2.) Talk to her, find out what her feelings are, 3.) Write her letters expressing your own hopes, fears, and assurances of your steadfastness. Needless to say, this proved very interesting. Sit back, relax and enjoy!
August 26, 2024
Clean funny emotional
First time book for this author. Well written and great idea.
I bought the paperback because cover caught my attention. I’m so glad I did, this was an awesomely well written storyline. I could not put this book down once I started. It’s emotional from beginning to end along very hilarious situation that make it better.
I love the new characters, they enhance the story. I love how Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam put a stop to Wickham along with Lady C was handled. I truly love the way. Darcy proved himselfto, the relief of Elizabeth each and every time.
This book is very clean and highly recommended for anyone to read
First time book for this author. Well written and great idea.
I bought the paperback because cover caught my attention. I’m so glad I did, this was an awesomely well written storyline. I could not put this book down once I started. It’s emotional from beginning to end along very hilarious situation that make it better.
I love the new characters, they enhance the story. I love how Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam put a stop to Wickham along with Lady C was handled. I truly love the way. Darcy proved himselfto, the relief of Elizabeth each and every time.
This book is very clean and highly recommended for anyone to read
April 4, 2024
A minimalist variation.
Essentially a restatement of canon, we join our dear couple after the Hunsford proposal and observe the Gardiners travel to Pemberley with Lizzy. Departing a little from canon, the Bingleys do not accompany Darcy to Pemberley, as he has spent a few weeks with them at a house party. We see a very insecure and uncertain Lizzy who seems to love Darcy but is afraid to commit. A couple of non-canon characters, a flighty Bingley, a lot of letters exchanged, and a happy ending.
Essentially a restatement of canon, we join our dear couple after the Hunsford proposal and observe the Gardiners travel to Pemberley with Lizzy. Departing a little from canon, the Bingleys do not accompany Darcy to Pemberley, as he has spent a few weeks with them at a house party. We see a very insecure and uncertain Lizzy who seems to love Darcy but is afraid to commit. A couple of non-canon characters, a flighty Bingley, a lot of letters exchanged, and a happy ending.
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October 1, 2024Slow moving and stilted.
This story simple and low angst. While the base of the story was good the sugar sweet and poetic Darcy was too much.
Aunt Maddy was very generous with her wedding night tutorial.
Elizabeth was indecisive and boring.
Wickham was a footnote thank goodness but Lydia should have just been shunned by the family. I did enjoy Mrs. Bennett's plotting but anyone who can plot that well surely could have also had more sense.
Not a bad read but note a story I want to revisit.
This story simple and low angst. While the base of the story was good the sugar sweet and poetic Darcy was too much.
Aunt Maddy was very generous with her wedding night tutorial.
Elizabeth was indecisive and boring.
Wickham was a footnote thank goodness but Lydia should have just been shunned by the family. I did enjoy Mrs. Bennett's plotting but anyone who can plot that well surely could have also had more sense.
Not a bad read but note a story I want to revisit.
September 12, 2024
True confession time - I don't like Pride and Prejudice very much. I find it a little too melodramatic and with too little action. In fact, I liked this "fan fiction" version much better than the original. I will also say that it could be that Bridgerton is winning me over to this era, so maybe I should go back and re-read Pride and Prejudice.
I thought the author did a great job of getting the tone right on the characters and their dialogue. Very well put together for a debut effort!
I thought the author did a great job of getting the tone right on the characters and their dialogue. Very well put together for a debut effort!
March 23, 2024
Delightful
Jane Austen and Pride and Prejudice fans will be delighted by this engaging retelling. Those unfamiliar with the story will be, as well. The pages will fly by as you are swept up and captivated by this love story from another time. Absolutely loved it!
Jane Austen and Pride and Prejudice fans will be delighted by this engaging retelling. Those unfamiliar with the story will be, as well. The pages will fly by as you are swept up and captivated by this love story from another time. Absolutely loved it!
March 28, 2024
Entertaining read
Enjoyable well written variation. The additional characters added depth to the story with interesting subtle changes the storyline to make it more entertaining. Enjoy!
Enjoyable well written variation. The additional characters added depth to the story with interesting subtle changes the storyline to make it more entertaining. Enjoy!
March 30, 2024
Very Delightful!
I always enjoy it when we the readers are gifted a story that although not very long is still so well crafted that it feels endless in every good way. This is just such a story.
I always enjoy it when we the readers are gifted a story that although not very long is still so well crafted that it feels endless in every good way. This is just such a story.
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