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Take His Likeness: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Sir,
Scorn me if you must, but let it be done for reasons that are just and true. The idea of you moving through the world with disdain for me based on false notions is too much to bear. Once I have given you all the reasons for my deceptions, if you still choose to hold me in contempt, it will be done honestly.
ELIZABETH BENNET has a secret. The finances of Longbourn are more dire than is generally known and she has been forced by necessity to help keep food on the table of her family home. Her secret is safe. Until the night the handsome face and kind attentions of Fitzwilliam Darcy lay claim to her affections.
FITZWILLIAM DARCY is in dangerously low spirits. He cannot forgive himself for his mistakes in judgment that almost caused his young sister to marry George Wickham. This visit to Hertfordshire was supposed to cheer him. But nothing works until that odd night in the library…
Take His Likeness is a Pride and Prejudice Variation with a nod towards Jane Eyre. It has a touch of Magical Realism, Elizabeth in disguise, Elizabeth falls first, and a Happily Ever After for Elizabeth and Darcy.
Scorn me if you must, but let it be done for reasons that are just and true. The idea of you moving through the world with disdain for me based on false notions is too much to bear. Once I have given you all the reasons for my deceptions, if you still choose to hold me in contempt, it will be done honestly.
ELIZABETH BENNET has a secret. The finances of Longbourn are more dire than is generally known and she has been forced by necessity to help keep food on the table of her family home. Her secret is safe. Until the night the handsome face and kind attentions of Fitzwilliam Darcy lay claim to her affections.
FITZWILLIAM DARCY is in dangerously low spirits. He cannot forgive himself for his mistakes in judgment that almost caused his young sister to marry George Wickham. This visit to Hertfordshire was supposed to cheer him. But nothing works until that odd night in the library…
Take His Likeness is a Pride and Prejudice Variation with a nod towards Jane Eyre. It has a touch of Magical Realism, Elizabeth in disguise, Elizabeth falls first, and a Happily Ever After for Elizabeth and Darcy.
291 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
May 31, 2024
272 pages on my Kindle for PC.
Much of this story follows the outline of canon. However, Mr. Bennet is more neglectful of managing Longbourn and there comes a point when there is not even enough in the budget to put food on the table. Here is where Elizabeth comes in and where we see that hint of an event from Jane Eyre (...another of my favorite stories). The author uses an historical fact of priest's hole to give Elizabeth a way to a small stone cottage in the woods where in the disguise of an old woman she reads cards. Mrs. Hill has been helpful in teaching Elizabeth about that talent.
Elizabeth is then asked to do card reading at Netherfield and thus meets that group of people. She is immediately drawn to Darcy but events occur which make her then find him "unattractive". Yes, we also have the assembly. Wickham, of course, plays a part in her changed opinion.
Jane, rather than Elizabeth, travels with the Gardiners to Lambton and so tours Pemberley. We have the Lydia debacle occurring with Bingley becoming involved here.
The Colonel is present and tries to counsel Darcy as to his love life.
A pleasant read with no real angst for me. Elizabeth and Darcy are again having to undo their misunderstandings or the expectations of the ton, similar to canon.
Much of this story follows the outline of canon. However, Mr. Bennet is more neglectful of managing Longbourn and there comes a point when there is not even enough in the budget to put food on the table. Here is where Elizabeth comes in and where we see that hint of an event from Jane Eyre (...another of my favorite stories). The author uses an historical fact of priest's hole to give Elizabeth a way to a small stone cottage in the woods where in the disguise of an old woman she reads cards. Mrs. Hill has been helpful in teaching Elizabeth about that talent.
Elizabeth is then asked to do card reading at Netherfield and thus meets that group of people. She is immediately drawn to Darcy but events occur which make her then find him "unattractive". Yes, we also have the assembly. Wickham, of course, plays a part in her changed opinion.
Jane, rather than Elizabeth, travels with the Gardiners to Lambton and so tours Pemberley. We have the Lydia debacle occurring with Bingley becoming involved here.
The Colonel is present and tries to counsel Darcy as to his love life.
A pleasant read with no real angst for me. Elizabeth and Darcy are again having to undo their misunderstandings or the expectations of the ton, similar to canon.
June 2, 2024
Elizabeth takes up a craft to help her family
Whether paid by money or in goods her craft has assisted the family.
Things get dicey when her own heart is on the line. Darcy was a tortured soul and all she wanted to do was help him. She lost her own heart along the way.
Interesting mash up sending Jane to Derbyshire.
Lagged a little in the middle for me. The end scene was adorbs!
Whether paid by money or in goods her craft has assisted the family.
Things get dicey when her own heart is on the line. Darcy was a tortured soul and all she wanted to do was help him. She lost her own heart along the way.
Interesting mash up sending Jane to Derbyshire.
Lagged a little in the middle for me. The end scene was adorbs!
January 31, 2025
Elizabeth Bennet has a secret. Longbourn's finances are more dour than generally known, therefore she needs to ensure in secret that her family has enough food to survive. Her secret is safe until her world is shaken by the strikingly handsome Fitzwilliam Darcy whom she encounters at Netherfield. Darcy is there to stay with his friend Bingley. He hopes that this visit will improve his mood because after the events of Ramsgate he still blames himself for failing his sister. But nothing works until this one night in the Netherfield library ... Will Elizabeth be able to keep her secret safe? Is there even a chance that Darcy notices her with the family finances in dire straits? Is there a chance for a future together?
The book was very well written by the author Lyndsay Constable. The story is in many parts similar to the events of Jane Austen's original but there are minor but important changes that sometimes alter the course of events. That was very well done by the author and some alterations are really nice, for example Bingley has a more significant role at Pemberley and in the chase after Wickham. I like that very much.
In this story Elizabeth is the one providing, with the help of her secret, in a way for her family because her father is more lethargic than ever. This means Elizabeth is quite occupied and does not have much time to idle by and maintain a close relationship with Jane. I was sorry for her because she was quite alone in this story. Her secret also changes some events of the original story. But it also enables her to get a better insight in people, also, in some parts, in Darcy.
Darcy on his part appears, due to Elizabeth's better observation, more vulnerable after the events of Ramsgate. He soon falls for Elizabeth, while looking after her he ceased thinking about his supposed failing to Georgiana. But on the other hand he does nothing for his love for Elizabeth. I sometimes wanted to slap him because he so obviously loves Elizabeth but is too stuck in his idea that Elizabeth is unsuitable even if she makes him happy and he can't imagine a life without her.
The love story is a love at first sight story. Elizabeth is intrigued the first moment she sees Darcy. Darcy needs a bit longer, but not much. Unfortunately Darcy is too stubborn to admit his love (even if it is obvious to those who know him) and Elizabeth doesn't feel worthy of a man if Darcy's standing and, due to circumstances, does not have Jane to confide in to help her see clear.
Besides Darcy and Elizabeth I really like Bingley and the Colonel in this version. Bingley because he has a more significant role and he is also allowed to be a bit of a hero. I like Bingley very much but sometimes he is a bit too much depending on Darcy and his guidance. Here, especially in the second part of the book he acts more on his behalf and in the way he wants. He is more active and is rewarded for this.
The Colonel is always a favourite of mine, especially when he is teasing Darcy mercilessly like in this version. I like his teasing but also that he is a loyal friend, nearly brother, to Darcy. And that he tells Darcy without hesitation about all the failures and wrong doings he, Darcy, commits.
If you like to know about Elizabeth's secret and how this may alter the events with and the relationship to Darcy, 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.
The book was very well written by the author Lyndsay Constable. The story is in many parts similar to the events of Jane Austen's original but there are minor but important changes that sometimes alter the course of events. That was very well done by the author and some alterations are really nice, for example Bingley has a more significant role at Pemberley and in the chase after Wickham. I like that very much.
In this story Elizabeth is the one providing, with the help of her secret, in a way for her family because her father is more lethargic than ever. This means Elizabeth is quite occupied and does not have much time to idle by and maintain a close relationship with Jane. I was sorry for her because she was quite alone in this story. Her secret also changes some events of the original story. But it also enables her to get a better insight in people, also, in some parts, in Darcy.
Darcy on his part appears, due to Elizabeth's better observation, more vulnerable after the events of Ramsgate. He soon falls for Elizabeth, while looking after her he ceased thinking about his supposed failing to Georgiana. But on the other hand he does nothing for his love for Elizabeth. I sometimes wanted to slap him because he so obviously loves Elizabeth but is too stuck in his idea that Elizabeth is unsuitable even if she makes him happy and he can't imagine a life without her.
The love story is a love at first sight story. Elizabeth is intrigued the first moment she sees Darcy. Darcy needs a bit longer, but not much. Unfortunately Darcy is too stubborn to admit his love (even if it is obvious to those who know him) and Elizabeth doesn't feel worthy of a man if Darcy's standing and, due to circumstances, does not have Jane to confide in to help her see clear.
Besides Darcy and Elizabeth I really like Bingley and the Colonel in this version. Bingley because he has a more significant role and he is also allowed to be a bit of a hero. I like Bingley very much but sometimes he is a bit too much depending on Darcy and his guidance. Here, especially in the second part of the book he acts more on his behalf and in the way he wants. He is more active and is rewarded for this.
The Colonel is always a favourite of mine, especially when he is teasing Darcy mercilessly like in this version. I like his teasing but also that he is a loyal friend, nearly brother, to Darcy. And that he tells Darcy without hesitation about all the failures and wrong doings he, Darcy, commits.
If you like to know about Elizabeth's secret and how this may alter the events with and the relationship to Darcy, 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.
February 5, 2025
A Different Premise
Audiobook Review:
The premise of Elizabeth secretly doing card readings to support her family is certainly unusual. I enjoyed the story, but I found it hard to believe that Mr. Bennet would let Longbourn’s finances dwindle to the point where Elizabeth had to take such measures just to put food on the table. It was also a bit disappointing that she ignored Wickham’s true character, even when it was revealed during his reading.
That said, the storytelling is engaging, with plenty of ups and downs and interesting twists on canon—such as Jane visiting Pemberley instead of Elizabeth. Bingley playing the hero was a great touch, and it added some humour to the dialogue. I’m still laughing at tallywhacker!
I also loved the dual narration by Stevie Zimmerman and Harry Frost. These two talented and well-loved narrators never disappoint, and having them together in one book was an absolute delight.
Audiobook Review:
The premise of Elizabeth secretly doing card readings to support her family is certainly unusual. I enjoyed the story, but I found it hard to believe that Mr. Bennet would let Longbourn’s finances dwindle to the point where Elizabeth had to take such measures just to put food on the table. It was also a bit disappointing that she ignored Wickham’s true character, even when it was revealed during his reading.
That said, the storytelling is engaging, with plenty of ups and downs and interesting twists on canon—such as Jane visiting Pemberley instead of Elizabeth. Bingley playing the hero was a great touch, and it added some humour to the dialogue. I’m still laughing at tallywhacker!
I also loved the dual narration by Stevie Zimmerman and Harry Frost. These two talented and well-loved narrators never disappoint, and having them together in one book was an absolute delight.
July 9, 2024
4.25 stars
Lizzy is hungry. Her father has nearly bankrupted Longbourn and there isn’t enough money for food. She tries to make a little money by telling peoples futures using Tarot cards disguised as an old woman/gypsy getup.
It’s never clear if she has a real power, but I chose to think she did. This setup makes for some unexplored facets to the Jane Austen story.
Lizzy is hungry. Her father has nearly bankrupted Longbourn and there isn’t enough money for food. She tries to make a little money by telling peoples futures using Tarot cards disguised as an old woman/gypsy getup.
It’s never clear if she has a real power, but I chose to think she did. This setup makes for some unexplored facets to the Jane Austen story.
May 18, 2024
Really interesting new plot line with Lizzie using her powers of observation to project clairvoyance. Miss Bingley is particularly (and entertainingly) awful. An excellent read.
June 4, 2024
Longbourn is in financial straits due to Mr. Bennet's indolence. To secretly make a little money, Elizabeth dresses as an old crone and reads Tarot cards in the woods for the locals. She's quite good at determining character through observation and weaves those details into her readings. Her instantaneous infatuation with Darcy is squelched with his comment at the assembly. But her attraction to Wickham is nearly squelched when a reading for him reveals just how awful he is.
I always understood that Caroline Bingley was bored at Netherfield, but the author made me feel her boredom and really understand her complaints. I had no sympathy for her, because she could have pursued any number of activities to fill her time. Her boredom was of her own making. But at the beginning of the book, Caroline's boredom made me bored! I wondered if the whole book would drag But no, the author was just painting the mood. Things quickly got lively.
Similarly, Elizabeth's intelligence is repeatedly demonstrated. We aren't just told that she's smart; we're given the evidence through her eloquence in the card readings, her insight, and her interactions with others. She isn't infallible, however.
As for Mr. Collins, is there anything more hilarious than his thinking about how the five Bennet sisters were going to fight over him?
I hope a conflict among the Bennet girls does not develop. For what will I do if they all fall in love with me? There will certainly be broken hearts, tears, and vexation at not having been chosen by me. They may turn their fury upon each other. Perhaps my cousins will even fight amongst themselves for my hand in marriage.
The writing is excellent. I enjoyed this clever and unique twist to the story and would read it again.
I always understood that Caroline Bingley was bored at Netherfield, but the author made me feel her boredom and really understand her complaints. I had no sympathy for her, because she could have pursued any number of activities to fill her time. Her boredom was of her own making. But at the beginning of the book, Caroline's boredom made me bored! I wondered if the whole book would drag But no, the author was just painting the mood. Things quickly got lively.
Similarly, Elizabeth's intelligence is repeatedly demonstrated. We aren't just told that she's smart; we're given the evidence through her eloquence in the card readings, her insight, and her interactions with others. She isn't infallible, however.
As for Mr. Collins, is there anything more hilarious than his thinking about how the five Bennet sisters were going to fight over him?
I hope a conflict among the Bennet girls does not develop. For what will I do if they all fall in love with me? There will certainly be broken hearts, tears, and vexation at not having been chosen by me. They may turn their fury upon each other. Perhaps my cousins will even fight amongst themselves for my hand in marriage.
The writing is excellent. I enjoyed this clever and unique twist to the story and would read it again.
June 14, 2024
4.5 stars ⭐ another addition to my 'trying to get my hands on everything pride and prejudice' collection. probably my favorite part of this was colonel fitzwilliam whenever he was near darcy—peak comedy. constable clearly understands the heart of jane austen's p&p and was able to make it her own while still staying true to that. i read the entirety of this in one day. it was really fun. at times a little ridiculous. but that was part of the fun.
May 30, 2024
Too close to the original
SPOILERS BELOW
There were aspects of this book that I really really enjoyed. The first half was fabulous. I think my first warning that I would ultimately be disappointed by this book was when Lizzy did Wickham's reading and the cards showed him to be as we all know him to be and then Lizzy worked so hard to still like him & dislike Darcy in her own mind. The author did an absolutely fabulous job blending her original writing with cannon. However the plot of this book is the plot of P&P. I was disappointed that Lizzy's card reading insights came to nothing because the book played out just as P&P did. Having Jane go on the northern tour with the Gardiners & then having Bingley be included in Darcy & Colonel Fitzwilliam hunting down Wickham & Lydia just was not enough change to make this a true variation. It was just too much a retelling to be enjoyable.
SPOILERS BELOW
There were aspects of this book that I really really enjoyed. The first half was fabulous. I think my first warning that I would ultimately be disappointed by this book was when Lizzy did Wickham's reading and the cards showed him to be as we all know him to be and then Lizzy worked so hard to still like him & dislike Darcy in her own mind. The author did an absolutely fabulous job blending her original writing with cannon. However the plot of this book is the plot of P&P. I was disappointed that Lizzy's card reading insights came to nothing because the book played out just as P&P did. Having Jane go on the northern tour with the Gardiners & then having Bingley be included in Darcy & Colonel Fitzwilliam hunting down Wickham & Lydia just was not enough change to make this a true variation. It was just too much a retelling to be enjoyable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2024
Enjoyed
I wasn't sure when I selected this book that I would enjoy it, but it was a good read. The story of Elizabeth being a card reader to put food on the table is something that I know she would have done to take care of her family. She was a strong woman. I suggest that you read it, it's really a good book.
I wasn't sure when I selected this book that I would enjoy it, but it was a good read. The story of Elizabeth being a card reader to put food on the table is something that I know she would have done to take care of her family. She was a strong woman. I suggest that you read it, it's really a good book.
May 18, 2024
Lyndsay Constable creates a uniquely fascinating version of Elizabeth Bennet!
This version of Elizabeth Bennet (still within the well-known world of Jane Austen) is surprisingly unique! The Bennets are in even more dire financial straits than heretofore known.
The author Lyndsay Constable has an idea of how Elizabeth might have helped supplement the family income are historically based. I checked! It's sure to shock some, but I think it's fascinating! There's a surprising twist or two regarding Elizabeth and Darcy, as well!
This version of Elizabeth Bennet (still within the well-known world of Jane Austen) is surprisingly unique! The Bennets are in even more dire financial straits than heretofore known.
The author Lyndsay Constable has an idea of how Elizabeth might have helped supplement the family income are historically based. I checked! It's sure to shock some, but I think it's fascinating! There's a surprising twist or two regarding Elizabeth and Darcy, as well!
May 18, 2024
Good Variation!
I really liked the premise of this story. It was executed really well too. We get to see different sides of Darcy and Elizabeth. I really liked this portrayal of Darcy. I can't wait to see what this author comes up with next!
I really liked the premise of this story. It was executed really well too. We get to see different sides of Darcy and Elizabeth. I really liked this portrayal of Darcy. I can't wait to see what this author comes up with next!
May 16, 2024
Capital! Capital!
Lovely writing, fascinating plot and lots of frustrating romantic moments for our dear couple. Lizzy is secretly earning some money by acting as a fortuneteller and, of course, has plenty of problems, challenges, and sweet moments with Darcy. Witty, humorous, romantic, and adorable!
Lovely writing, fascinating plot and lots of frustrating romantic moments for our dear couple. Lizzy is secretly earning some money by acting as a fortuneteller and, of course, has plenty of problems, challenges, and sweet moments with Darcy. Witty, humorous, romantic, and adorable!
May 16, 2024
A marvellous variation
The introduction of one conceit, Elizabeth’s secret, throws a different light on the traditional canon. There is an amusing light-hearted play on a highlight from the 1995 TV series, also. The characters are well drawn, the dialogue full of life, the writing is excellent. I was sorry to finish it.
The introduction of one conceit, Elizabeth’s secret, throws a different light on the traditional canon. There is an amusing light-hearted play on a highlight from the 1995 TV series, also. The characters are well drawn, the dialogue full of life, the writing is excellent. I was sorry to finish it.
August 20, 2024
A mysterious woman tarot reader, fortunes and futures foretold, and a classic romance gets a little extra help when the stars don’t align. Lyndsay Constable brings the old arcane art of tarot reading into her retelling of Pride & Prejudice with fortuitous results.
Take His Likeness was described as a Pride & Prejudice variation with a nod to Jane Eyre. This determined me in reading it with high anticipation. Take His Likeness does indeed delivery one scene that was highly familiar from the Jane Eyre novel with the rest of the story strongly settled in Jane Austen’s classic.
Following closely the events and characters of Austen’s Pride & Prejudice, Take His Likeness had a couple of significant deviations that do cause the beginning of the story to play out slightly differently.
The Bennet family are indeed low-rung status as gentry, but their finances are in even poorer condition due to some bad investments on her father’s part and no real entrepreneurial spirit and a great deal of laziness on his part to do anything more.
So second daughter, Elizabeth Bennet, is determined to help keep her family afloat. The family housekeeper gives her the means when she puts into her hands her grandmother’s Italian Tarot deck and she discovers the secret passage to the abandoned cottage next door. Elizabeth disguises herself as an old wise woman who tells fortunes and makes simple magical talismans with the money supporting her family’s very needs. Elizabeth is rather successful at her craft because she relies on her keen observation skills and the chain of servants’ gossip that Hill shares with her to know her clients well so predictions are more accurate.
Then, the party of people come to the nearby estate setting the neighborhood, including the Bennets in a stir. Ambition, deceit, hopeful hearts, misunderstandings, and tender feelings abound among the cast of characters. Elizabeth’s vaunted ability to read people has always been her strength, but something about the handsome, wealthy, and aloof Fitzwilliam Darcy defies her ability and tangles up her emotions. She lets one bad impression guide her in ‘taking his likeness’ and complications ensue.
Take His Likeness is a low-angst class difference romance among a pair who had their faults and just needed a chance to grow past them. The tone was gentle with subtle rises in tension and some lags in pacing toward the middle. There was an interesting study of characters at the beginning when Elizabeth in disguise read cards for each of the principle players. I was hoping to see more come of this when it came to certain ambitious or nefarious types like Miss Bingley, Mr. Wickham, Lady Catherine, and even Mr. Collins.
Most of the focus shifted to the romance pair and how Elizabeth ‘read’ Darcy and how her secret would affect matters. Darcy had to get over his arrogance and Lizzy had to see she wasn’t infallible with her ability to read people when one man pricked her vanity and another stroked it. I liked seeing them both learn and grow as the narration shifted back and forth between them.
Taking His Likeness ended satisfactorily and left me smiling when Elizabeth got to see what Darcy kept as his hidden treasures after all was said and done. This is a variation, but it didn’t venture far from canon, for the most part so I’ll describe it as more of a sweet classical romance retelling for recommendation purposes.
I rec'd a finished print copy from the author to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer 7.31.24.
Take His Likeness was described as a Pride & Prejudice variation with a nod to Jane Eyre. This determined me in reading it with high anticipation. Take His Likeness does indeed delivery one scene that was highly familiar from the Jane Eyre novel with the rest of the story strongly settled in Jane Austen’s classic.
Following closely the events and characters of Austen’s Pride & Prejudice, Take His Likeness had a couple of significant deviations that do cause the beginning of the story to play out slightly differently.
The Bennet family are indeed low-rung status as gentry, but their finances are in even poorer condition due to some bad investments on her father’s part and no real entrepreneurial spirit and a great deal of laziness on his part to do anything more.
So second daughter, Elizabeth Bennet, is determined to help keep her family afloat. The family housekeeper gives her the means when she puts into her hands her grandmother’s Italian Tarot deck and she discovers the secret passage to the abandoned cottage next door. Elizabeth disguises herself as an old wise woman who tells fortunes and makes simple magical talismans with the money supporting her family’s very needs. Elizabeth is rather successful at her craft because she relies on her keen observation skills and the chain of servants’ gossip that Hill shares with her to know her clients well so predictions are more accurate.
Then, the party of people come to the nearby estate setting the neighborhood, including the Bennets in a stir. Ambition, deceit, hopeful hearts, misunderstandings, and tender feelings abound among the cast of characters. Elizabeth’s vaunted ability to read people has always been her strength, but something about the handsome, wealthy, and aloof Fitzwilliam Darcy defies her ability and tangles up her emotions. She lets one bad impression guide her in ‘taking his likeness’ and complications ensue.
Take His Likeness is a low-angst class difference romance among a pair who had their faults and just needed a chance to grow past them. The tone was gentle with subtle rises in tension and some lags in pacing toward the middle. There was an interesting study of characters at the beginning when Elizabeth in disguise read cards for each of the principle players. I was hoping to see more come of this when it came to certain ambitious or nefarious types like Miss Bingley, Mr. Wickham, Lady Catherine, and even Mr. Collins.
Most of the focus shifted to the romance pair and how Elizabeth ‘read’ Darcy and how her secret would affect matters. Darcy had to get over his arrogance and Lizzy had to see she wasn’t infallible with her ability to read people when one man pricked her vanity and another stroked it. I liked seeing them both learn and grow as the narration shifted back and forth between them.
Taking His Likeness ended satisfactorily and left me smiling when Elizabeth got to see what Darcy kept as his hidden treasures after all was said and done. This is a variation, but it didn’t venture far from canon, for the most part so I’ll describe it as more of a sweet classical romance retelling for recommendation purposes.
I rec'd a finished print copy from the author to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer 7.31.24.
August 11, 2024
It has been a long time since I read such a good variation. I liked this Darcy very much. I also liked this Elizabeth, most of the time. I thought she was strangely blind to the poor behaviour of Wickham in the first half of the variation (hence the four stars). The cad, fortunately, does not feature very much in this book. The whole plot revolves around a charming idea, masterfully developed. Quite moving at times. Highly recommended.
July 5, 2024
Elizabeth takes up an occupation (secretly)
This book follows the story mostly like the original book except the Longbourne finances are more dire than they seem and E works with Mrs. Hill to provide for the family by using a secret. She uses the ancient hidden tunnel under longbourne to work as mystic fortune teller
She meets the Netherfield party couple of days before the assembly and is immediately taken with Darcy. His famous insult though makes her start to dislike him more and more along with wickham's lies
Darcy discovers her identity during his infamous proposal and both write to each other to clarify misunderstandings. Both are ashamed of their behavior and their prejudices and arrogance
Its Jane who travels with gardiners to Pemberley and meet Mr. Darcy and Mr. bingley. Lydia elopes and Bingley works with Darcy and the colonel to find them
Lady Catherine plays her part and we get the HEA
What i had problem with is both E and D gets taken with each other immediately purely on physical attributes. we understand E to be such a clever and perceptive (she has to to maintain the charade) lady but with Wickham himself showing his true colors to her in her fortune teller garb, she knowingly gives him pass. she wonders at his character but immediately absolves him of his character flaws and then has the audacity to blame Darcy. I mean that's hard to digest.
Darcy keeps harping about her unsuitability and totally muddles everything. If i was colonel i would have hit him on his head with a bat.
I thought what the fortune teller tells bingley about following his heart and intuition will work in the objection of Darcy and Caroline but sadly that all his forgotten
What i loved about the book is how Darcy's love remains constant even through his anger and hurt. he is immediately reasonable to think things through and retrospect.
Overall a good read
This book follows the story mostly like the original book except the Longbourne finances are more dire than they seem and E works with Mrs. Hill to provide for the family by using a secret. She uses the ancient hidden tunnel under longbourne to work as mystic fortune teller
She meets the Netherfield party couple of days before the assembly and is immediately taken with Darcy. His famous insult though makes her start to dislike him more and more along with wickham's lies
Darcy discovers her identity during his infamous proposal and both write to each other to clarify misunderstandings. Both are ashamed of their behavior and their prejudices and arrogance
Its Jane who travels with gardiners to Pemberley and meet Mr. Darcy and Mr. bingley. Lydia elopes and Bingley works with Darcy and the colonel to find them
Lady Catherine plays her part and we get the HEA
What i had problem with is both E and D gets taken with each other immediately purely on physical attributes. we understand E to be such a clever and perceptive (she has to to maintain the charade) lady but with Wickham himself showing his true colors to her in her fortune teller garb, she knowingly gives him pass. she wonders at his character but immediately absolves him of his character flaws and then has the audacity to blame Darcy. I mean that's hard to digest.
Darcy keeps harping about her unsuitability and totally muddles everything. If i was colonel i would have hit him on his head with a bat.
I thought what the fortune teller tells bingley about following his heart and intuition will work in the objection of Darcy and Caroline but sadly that all his forgotten
What i loved about the book is how Darcy's love remains constant even through his anger and hurt. he is immediately reasonable to think things through and retrospect.
Overall a good read
January 19, 2025
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. This story has a nod towards Jane Eyre. It has a touch of Magical Realism, Elizabeth in disguise, Elizabeth falls first, and a Happily Ever After for Elizabeth and Darcy.
Elizabeth Bennett has a secret. The finances of Longbourn are more dire than is generally known and she has been forced by necessity to help keep food on the table of her family home. Her secret is safe until the night the handsome face and kind attentions of Fitzwilliam Darcy lay claim to her affections.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is in dangerously low spirits. He cannot forgive himself for his mistakes in judgment that almost caused his young sister to marry George Wickham. This visit to Hertfordshire was supposed to cheer him, but nothing works until that odd night in the library.
So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. 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. This story has a nod towards Jane Eyre. It has a touch of Magical Realism, Elizabeth in disguise, Elizabeth falls first, and a Happily Ever After for Elizabeth and Darcy.
Elizabeth Bennett has a secret. The finances of Longbourn are more dire than is generally known and she has been forced by necessity to help keep food on the table of her family home. Her secret is safe until the night the handsome face and kind attentions of Fitzwilliam Darcy lay claim to her affections.
Fitzwilliam Darcy is in dangerously low spirits. He cannot forgive himself for his mistakes in judgment that almost caused his young sister to marry George Wickham. This visit to Hertfordshire was supposed to cheer him, but nothing works until that odd night in the library.
So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
January 30, 2025
Elizabeth finds way to support family
Elizabeth knows the truth about their family's financial situation and, with Mrs Hill's help, finds a secret way to bring in additional funds to feed her family. Elizabeth uses her observations of people to help her do her "job" better. She is still taken in by Wickham, which was frustrating. She finally realized that Darcy's character was even harder to read through all his layers. I did like the alternating chapters on the POV as it permits one to learn more of each character. Col Fitzwilliam does try his best to get Darcy to get over his high horse sooner than he does but thankfully things all work out in the end.
Elizabeth knows the truth about their family's financial situation and, with Mrs Hill's help, finds a secret way to bring in additional funds to feed her family. Elizabeth uses her observations of people to help her do her "job" better. She is still taken in by Wickham, which was frustrating. She finally realized that Darcy's character was even harder to read through all his layers. I did like the alternating chapters on the POV as it permits one to learn more of each character. Col Fitzwilliam does try his best to get Darcy to get over his high horse sooner than he does but thankfully things all work out in the end.
July 2, 2024
Very Satisfying
I always cringe when I read about Elizabeth being so stupid, but in this story this Elizabeth takes the cake for stupidity. She saw for herself how kind Darcy was in the library when she first met him as an old hag. And she saw Wickham being undisguisedly nasty when he came to have the reading thinking the old woman was a nobody. How on earth did she fail to sketch their characters so spectacularly? It makes me want to punch something which means you succeeded in telling your story beautifully. Thanks for this cool ride. Well done
I always cringe when I read about Elizabeth being so stupid, but in this story this Elizabeth takes the cake for stupidity. She saw for herself how kind Darcy was in the library when she first met him as an old hag. And she saw Wickham being undisguisedly nasty when he came to have the reading thinking the old woman was a nobody. How on earth did she fail to sketch their characters so spectacularly? It makes me want to punch something which means you succeeded in telling your story beautifully. Thanks for this cool ride. Well done
February 18, 2025
wow
This was such a lovely variation and I will be eager to read it again. How E worked to care for her family was so unique and really added a new dimension to our beloved couple. The cover of this book could use an update. It really does not reflect the story at all. Well researched- the tarot was spot on.
This was such a lovely variation and I will be eager to read it again. How E worked to care for her family was so unique and really added a new dimension to our beloved couple. The cover of this book could use an update. It really does not reflect the story at all. Well researched- the tarot was spot on.
May 20, 2024
Disappointing...
Too much like the original! Adding a couple of different scenarios, like the reading of fortunes and Jane going on the trip with the Gardeners instead of Lizzy added nothing to the story. No imagination by the author. Very disappointing!🙁
Too much like the original! Adding a couple of different scenarios, like the reading of fortunes and Jane going on the trip with the Gardeners instead of Lizzy added nothing to the story. No imagination by the author. Very disappointing!🙁
May 20, 2024
I was given the opportunity to be an arc reader for Lyndsay and enjoyed every turn of the page. The creative and fun titles for every chapter were a beautiful touch. The story itself was begun like no other I have found, and ended in the way we expect and hope for. A wonderfully fun tale.
December 4, 2024
Very Imaginative
I enjoyed reading how Elizabeth uses her propensity to read people to make some money or get food. Like the TV show Psych, she was very right sometimes and almost nonsensical in her adamant beliefs, even when she was wrong. Very enjoyable.
I enjoyed reading how Elizabeth uses her propensity to read people to make some money or get food. Like the TV show Psych, she was very right sometimes and almost nonsensical in her adamant beliefs, even when she was wrong. Very enjoyable.
May 16, 2024
Loved this book cleverly written and an engaging plot.
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June 22, 2024Lizzy has a side hustle as a tarot card reader
August 3, 2024
If you love Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, treat yourself to this book. You won’t be sorry! https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTN4gmNgt/
January 31, 2025
3.5 stars rounded down to 3
December 19, 2024
4 and a bit 🌟! I so enjoyed this variation on the beloved tale of Pride and Prejudice. The author has preserved the characters so well that they are all instantly and realistically recognizable (in manner, in voicing), but now has given us some deluxe “bonus material” to add to their stories. I was positively cackling over the “bopping” and “prancing” Mr. Collins. I swooned over Darcy’s internal struggles to remain aloof and thought Elizabeth Bennett’s own internal paroxysms to probably be a fair and astute deduction of what was really behind the original character’s apparent contempt for Darcy. It’s just human nature and psychology! But really very fun for the modern reader to get a “behind the scenes” kind of rom-com peek at both of these characters’ emotions and motivations. Believable enough that I choose to tacitly understand a lot of what came out in this book as “true” for the characters in “real life.” If you love variations and retellings of classic favorites, I think you’d be hard-pressed not to enjoy this one.
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