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No Less Resentment: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
All of his efforts to forget her had failed, and he had accepted that some part of her would always be with him.
In the winter of 1812, a fatal accident on a stormy night plunges the Bennet family into mourning and scandal. Shunned and isolated from nearly everyone they have ever known and loved each of the Bennet sisters hurries to marry, to provide themselves the respectability of married women. Miss Elizabeth Bennet settles into marriage of prudence with a man she respects but could never completely love.
Fitzwilliam Darcy left Hertfordshire determined to put Elizabeth Bennet and her fine eyes behind him. Disgusted by society and plagued by memories he would just as soon forget, he tries to seclude himself at Pemberley. Alas, the treachery and extortion of someone he once trusted leads him to settle into a marriage both he and his bride despise.
Shortly after he becomes a widower, a chance discovery on a beach in Devon brings Elizabeth Bennet back to Darcy’s mind. Not knowing anything of what has befallen her in the years since that fateful autumn in Hertfordshire he sets out to find her and, if possible, court her.
Will the tumult both have endured in the years since last they met be put aside? Will their long-awaited second chance at love finally lead to happily ever after?
Fitzwilliam Darcy left Hertfordshire determined to put Elizabeth Bennet and her fine eyes behind him. Disgusted by society and plagued by memories he would just as soon forget, he tries to seclude himself at Pemberley. Alas, the treachery and extortion of someone he once trusted leads him to settle into a marriage both he and his bride despise.
Shortly after he becomes a widower, a chance discovery on a beach in Devon brings Elizabeth Bennet back to Darcy’s mind. Not knowing anything of what has befallen her in the years since that fateful autumn in Hertfordshire he sets out to find her and, if possible, court her.
Will the tumult both have endured in the years since last they met be put aside? Will their long-awaited second chance at love finally lead to happily ever after?
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Published October 21, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
June 25, 2025
Resentment is a union of sorrow and malignity. — Samuel Johnson
“No Less Resentment” opens with a prologue set in 1817. The mystery grabbed me and did not loosen until the end.
Chapter 1 slides back to the days following the Netherfield Ball. Tragedy strikes the Bennet family of Hertfordshire.
Lydia, the youngest and most foolish Bennet daughter, runs away with a scoundrel on a cold and stormy night. An accident on a slippery road seals the fate of both occupants. Lydia Bennet and George Wickham are dead. The Bennet family is grieved and shunned.
Meryton is unforgiving of Lydia’s elopement. The housekeeper is not able to buy supplies in the village. A servant must travel to a nearby town each week.
The local pastor refuses Mary Bennet entry to the parsonage and advises the Bennets not to attend church services.
Not even Mrs. Phillips, sister to Mrs. Bennet, will visit Longbourn.
Mrs. Bennet, the social butterfly, suffers from her isolation. Within months, she succumbs to an illness.
Now the Bennet sisters have another anger to lay at their youngest sister’s door. Lydia is responsible for all the unhappiness, all the lost hopes, all the loneliness.
Never hold resentments for the person who tells you what you need to hear; count them among your truest, most caring and valuable friends. — Mike Norton
Enter Mrs. Hill! Yes, the same Mrs. Hill who is the usual focus of Mrs. Bennet’s complaints, the giver of smelling salts, the appeaser. The housekeeper comes into her own in this story. I loved that woman!
After the mourning period, each sister visits the Gardiners in turn, hoping to find a suitable husband. Elizabeth twice grants her turn to a younger sister. Now three of the four remaining Bennet daughters are married and building a happy life.
Just like there is always time for pain, there is always time for healing. — Jennifer Brown
Elizabeth chooses an unconventional marriage for herself. Despite its drawbacks, she finds her place in the world. She is valued and makes the most of her position.
Episodes from the life of Fitzwilliam Darcy are interspersed with the story of the Bennets. He also makes a calamitous marriage.
It is not a spoiler to report that before a Happy Ever After can occur for Our Dear Couple, both must be widowed — Elizabeth grieves for an admirable human being; Darcy regrets the life his wife had lived.
Although the early chapters were the most powerful, I loved the romance when Darcy and Elizabeth are reunited. Both have learned from life. Both are ready for bliss.
You will want to read this one!
Resentment impedes happiness. You cannot be resentful and happy at the same time. — Mary Jane Warr
“No Less Resentment” opens with a prologue set in 1817. The mystery grabbed me and did not loosen until the end.
Chapter 1 slides back to the days following the Netherfield Ball. Tragedy strikes the Bennet family of Hertfordshire.
Lydia, the youngest and most foolish Bennet daughter, runs away with a scoundrel on a cold and stormy night. An accident on a slippery road seals the fate of both occupants. Lydia Bennet and George Wickham are dead. The Bennet family is grieved and shunned.
Meryton is unforgiving of Lydia’s elopement. The housekeeper is not able to buy supplies in the village. A servant must travel to a nearby town each week.
The local pastor refuses Mary Bennet entry to the parsonage and advises the Bennets not to attend church services.
Not even Mrs. Phillips, sister to Mrs. Bennet, will visit Longbourn.
Mrs. Bennet, the social butterfly, suffers from her isolation. Within months, she succumbs to an illness.
Now the Bennet sisters have another anger to lay at their youngest sister’s door. Lydia is responsible for all the unhappiness, all the lost hopes, all the loneliness.
Never hold resentments for the person who tells you what you need to hear; count them among your truest, most caring and valuable friends. — Mike Norton
Enter Mrs. Hill! Yes, the same Mrs. Hill who is the usual focus of Mrs. Bennet’s complaints, the giver of smelling salts, the appeaser. The housekeeper comes into her own in this story. I loved that woman!
After the mourning period, each sister visits the Gardiners in turn, hoping to find a suitable husband. Elizabeth twice grants her turn to a younger sister. Now three of the four remaining Bennet daughters are married and building a happy life.
Just like there is always time for pain, there is always time for healing. — Jennifer Brown
Elizabeth chooses an unconventional marriage for herself. Despite its drawbacks, she finds her place in the world. She is valued and makes the most of her position.
Episodes from the life of Fitzwilliam Darcy are interspersed with the story of the Bennets. He also makes a calamitous marriage.
It is not a spoiler to report that before a Happy Ever After can occur for Our Dear Couple, both must be widowed — Elizabeth grieves for an admirable human being; Darcy regrets the life his wife had lived.
Although the early chapters were the most powerful, I loved the romance when Darcy and Elizabeth are reunited. Both have learned from life. Both are ready for bliss.
You will want to read this one!
Resentment impedes happiness. You cannot be resentful and happy at the same time. — Mary Jane Warr
July 4, 2025
I bought the paperback and it is still as impactful as the first reading. I love it!
My Rating: 5*+++
What an exquisite gem!
I started this at night, but had to stop to sleep, and picked it up in the morning. I read all day until I finished it. I was completely captivated by this story, the exquisite writing style and the premise.
“…Longbourn House was silent, the kind of silence that comes after a thunderbolt – the silence of shock and stupefaction.” (quote from the book)
It is a tale of scandal, resentment and revenge. It is also a tale of overcoming heartbreak, growth, and forgiveness which leads to deep and abiding love. All the elements I love in a story and not just for Elizabeth and Darcy but for other beloved characters. The twists and turns and the hand of Fate made this a riveting read.
Each of the Bennet sisters are deeply affected by the scandal. Each come to realize what is important to them and what they need to grow.
Jane: “I deserve a man who will be strong for me when I need him to be.”
Mary: “I want to be a different person, Lizzy. I do not know any other way to say it. I have spent my life trying to stand out, to gain notice in a large family of sisters. But I know it only brought tolerance at best, mockery at worst.”
Kitty: “My work proceeds apace. You will think it ridiculous, but I call it my work, the work of learning.”
Elizabeth: “Was this her test, her chance to discover what she was capable of?”
One of the other elements of the story that I so enjoyed were the letters sprinkled through it. Letters that not just moved the story along but provided glimpses into the lives of the Bennet family.
“The man had been dead for well over a year, yet Darcy could not ignore the sense of foreboding that rose in his breast.” (quote from the book)
But what about the villains in this story? There are several, old and new, that try to wreak havoc to not only the Bennets but to the Darcys. It was almost poetic in the way they received their just desserts.
I cannot praise this book enough. It is delicious…Mr. Darcy is all that he should be…stalwart and loving. It is compelling…the trials our beloved characters go through. It is so satisfying…the triumphs over vindictive people. Overall, it sparked and flamed the joy within me that I look for in a book. And the cover of this book is gorgeous! Paperback here I come!
I cannot recommend this novel highly enough! I am just disappointed in myself that I have not read Ms. Harrison’s debut novel, “Any Fair Interference”! I must correct that soon!
October 4, 2024
Although this is a Darcy and Elizabeth story, it's just as much a Bennet Family Saga. The family is left reeling with anger, grief, and melancholy in the aftermath of a scandal caused by Lydia. In this imagining, she runs away with Wickham not long after the Netherfield ball and the Bingleys, Hursts, and Mr. Darcy departure from Hertfordshire. Wickham's escape from his debtors at night on icy roads in a cart that has a fragile wheel quickly results in a tragic accident that kills both him and Lydia.
The shocked neighborhood turns its back on the Bennets. They are no longer received anywhere or visited by anyone, not even Mr. and Mrs. Phillips- their own family- or by the pastor and his wife. The local stores won't serve them. Mourning Lydia and overwhelmed by their total isolation, Mrs. Bennet is completely unable to cope. Within months, she becomes seriously ill and dies.
The opening chapters may be full of angst, but this is actually a story of resilience and triumph. Their shared challenges draw Mr. Bennet and the four remaining sisters together, and all are changed. Fate brings very entertaining surprises to these surviving Bennets- and to the book's readers. The story focuses on them during these months and years, occasionally updating the reader on Mr. Darcy, especially once he must deal with blackmail stemming from Georgiana's almost-elopement with Wickham the summer before he died. It's also apparent that Darcy never forgets Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
At around the middle of the book, five years have elapsed, and the story has caught up with the attention-grabbing Foreword. When Elizabeth meets Darcy again, she has long since dropped her prejudice against him. From that point on, the emphasis reverses, shifting to Darcy and Elizabeth with less frequent (though no less significant) descriptions of events in the lives of the rest of the Bennets.
It's a rather long book, so be prepared to spend some time with it. The writing is lovely, and Ms. Harrison has a nice gift for storytelling. I love the way she uses correspondence to provide information about the letter-writers.
I enjoyed the storylines for the Bennets more than the overcomplicated path for Darcy and Elizabeth. A villain who emerges just doesn't strike me as having convincing reasons to go after Elizabeth when his grievance is with someone who isn't even around anymore. It does add a layer of tension to the otherwise easy relationship that builds between Elizabeth and Darcy, but in such a long, multi-story-laden novel, it felt like an unnecessary subplot.
Those who abhor the idea of either Darcy or Elizabeth with anyone else should be warned: they BOTH marry before re-connecting years later. However, neither marriage is at all conventional.
The two sleep together before they marry, though it happens only hours before the ceremony. And while the narrative isn't graphically descriptive, they kiss passionately and undress in bed before the scene fades away; when it resumes, it describes their delight in the afterglow before they hurriedly dress for their wedding. So the content isn't dirty, but it isn't squeaky clean, either.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The shocked neighborhood turns its back on the Bennets. They are no longer received anywhere or visited by anyone, not even Mr. and Mrs. Phillips- their own family- or by the pastor and his wife. The local stores won't serve them. Mourning Lydia and overwhelmed by their total isolation, Mrs. Bennet is completely unable to cope. Within months, she becomes seriously ill and dies.
The opening chapters may be full of angst, but this is actually a story of resilience and triumph. Their shared challenges draw Mr. Bennet and the four remaining sisters together, and all are changed. Fate brings very entertaining surprises to these surviving Bennets- and to the book's readers. The story focuses on them during these months and years, occasionally updating the reader on Mr. Darcy, especially once he must deal with blackmail stemming from Georgiana's almost-elopement with Wickham the summer before he died. It's also apparent that Darcy never forgets Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
At around the middle of the book, five years have elapsed, and the story has caught up with the attention-grabbing Foreword. When Elizabeth meets Darcy again, she has long since dropped her prejudice against him. From that point on, the emphasis reverses, shifting to Darcy and Elizabeth with less frequent (though no less significant) descriptions of events in the lives of the rest of the Bennets.
It's a rather long book, so be prepared to spend some time with it. The writing is lovely, and Ms. Harrison has a nice gift for storytelling. I love the way she uses correspondence to provide information about the letter-writers.
I enjoyed the storylines for the Bennets more than the overcomplicated path for Darcy and Elizabeth. A villain who emerges just doesn't strike me as having convincing reasons to go after Elizabeth when his grievance is with someone who isn't even around anymore. It does add a layer of tension to the otherwise easy relationship that builds between Elizabeth and Darcy, but in such a long, multi-story-laden novel, it felt like an unnecessary subplot.
Those who abhor the idea of either Darcy or Elizabeth with anyone else should be warned: they BOTH marry before re-connecting years later. However, neither marriage is at all conventional.
The two sleep together before they marry, though it happens only hours before the ceremony. And while the narrative isn't graphically descriptive, they kiss passionately and undress in bed before the scene fades away; when it resumes, it describes their delight in the afterglow before they hurriedly dress for their wedding. So the content isn't dirty, but it isn't squeaky clean, either.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 4, 2025
What If Tragedy and Scandal Forced the Bennets Down a Different Path?
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
THE PREMISE: A fatal accident and scandal brings tragedy, grief, and ostracization to the Bennet family. But through the years they find paths to new lives and new happinesses away from Longbourn. What happens many years later when Mr. Darcy, who has stayed away from both Meryton and London, learns of what befell the Bennets and the only woman he felt admiration and attraction for…
WHAT I LOVED:
- Unique, Complex, Mature: This is 1000% my kind of book. The premise – and what Nan Harrison does with it – is brilliant. The deviation is early and the course is turbulent and full of unexpected developments. Not only that, it is quite eventful! It isn’t just the one scandal/disrupt that is the main conflict of this story, there is a second and possible third introduced later in the book. Lastly, with the passage of time throughout the course of this novel the characters we are following all mature and evolve. I loved seeing the personal growth and gaining wisdom of all these characters.
- Repercussions and Reconstruction: The Bennets’ lives were ripped asunder in a very real way. And I appreciated the authentic and perceptive portrayal of the impact of these events. Consequently, we see another set of characters also experience life-changing turmoil and severe consequences for their actions. Through all of these tumultuous situations the reader experiences each characters’ emotions, reflection and self-analysis, and resiliency as they learn to move forward.
- All the Bennets: Each Bennet has something developing and changing in their lives, and the reader gets to follow them all. I absolutely loved seeing such insightful attention and strong development paid to the secondary characters of this story. Their storylines were engaging, inspiring, and deeply satisfying. To witness their pain and sorrow at the beginning of the book, and then follow their paths to their own happiness, healing, and love is a very rich reward.
- Elizabeth’s Search: I especially loved Elizabeth’s journey in this tale. With all the upheaval of her past, she doesn’t feel prepared to move forward in a traditional direction similar to her sisters. She is seeking something more – she is needing a bigger purpose. It is easy to understand and relate to Elizabeth’s search and hesitancy. I loved following her own quest for peace and happiness. She is, as always, incredibly admirable.
- Balance, Pacing, and Patience: Back again to the skillful composition of this story. There were so many changes, so many layers, so much time passing. Nan Harrison deftly incorporates a lot of components in this tale, and I have to say, she executed each of them beautifully. She zoomed in on the developments that were significant, fast-forwarded ahead months and years when necessary, and gradually built up our anticipation for the main action. I have to admit, I kind of love that she made us wait so long for it – I was all eagerness and excitement to get to the creamy and satisfying middle. The tantalizing anticipation was delicious.
-The Ardency: Not only do readers witness a Darcy that is full of years of fervent yearning, but there is also an older and more experienced Elizabeth who secretly and unexpectedly develops feelings for Mr. Darcy. Her journey through attraction, esteem, tenderness, and deep love was beautiful. I loved seeing her come to her own understanding of her heart’s desires and her own appreciation of Mr. Darcy. And their scenes together were enchanting, charming, and swoony.
WHAT COULD’VE BEEN BETTER:
Absolutely nothing!
FINAL THOUGHTS:
🌟 Exquisitely unique, accomplished, and stellar – a brilliant contribution to the Austenesque world!
🥹 Adversity and admiration, despair and development, trials and triumph – this story is a comprehensive collection human experiences and emotions.
❤️🩹 A poignant yet inspiring story about the Bennets and the Darcys finding themselves, finding peace, and finding love. I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Source: Gift from Publisher
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
THE PREMISE: A fatal accident and scandal brings tragedy, grief, and ostracization to the Bennet family. But through the years they find paths to new lives and new happinesses away from Longbourn. What happens many years later when Mr. Darcy, who has stayed away from both Meryton and London, learns of what befell the Bennets and the only woman he felt admiration and attraction for…
WHAT I LOVED:
- Unique, Complex, Mature: This is 1000% my kind of book. The premise – and what Nan Harrison does with it – is brilliant. The deviation is early and the course is turbulent and full of unexpected developments. Not only that, it is quite eventful! It isn’t just the one scandal/disrupt that is the main conflict of this story, there is a second and possible third introduced later in the book. Lastly, with the passage of time throughout the course of this novel the characters we are following all mature and evolve. I loved seeing the personal growth and gaining wisdom of all these characters.
- Repercussions and Reconstruction: The Bennets’ lives were ripped asunder in a very real way. And I appreciated the authentic and perceptive portrayal of the impact of these events. Consequently, we see another set of characters also experience life-changing turmoil and severe consequences for their actions. Through all of these tumultuous situations the reader experiences each characters’ emotions, reflection and self-analysis, and resiliency as they learn to move forward.
- All the Bennets: Each Bennet has something developing and changing in their lives, and the reader gets to follow them all. I absolutely loved seeing such insightful attention and strong development paid to the secondary characters of this story. Their storylines were engaging, inspiring, and deeply satisfying. To witness their pain and sorrow at the beginning of the book, and then follow their paths to their own happiness, healing, and love is a very rich reward.
- Elizabeth’s Search: I especially loved Elizabeth’s journey in this tale. With all the upheaval of her past, she doesn’t feel prepared to move forward in a traditional direction similar to her sisters. She is seeking something more – she is needing a bigger purpose. It is easy to understand and relate to Elizabeth’s search and hesitancy. I loved following her own quest for peace and happiness. She is, as always, incredibly admirable.
- Balance, Pacing, and Patience: Back again to the skillful composition of this story. There were so many changes, so many layers, so much time passing. Nan Harrison deftly incorporates a lot of components in this tale, and I have to say, she executed each of them beautifully. She zoomed in on the developments that were significant, fast-forwarded ahead months and years when necessary, and gradually built up our anticipation for the main action. I have to admit, I kind of love that she made us wait so long for it – I was all eagerness and excitement to get to the creamy and satisfying middle. The tantalizing anticipation was delicious.
-The Ardency: Not only do readers witness a Darcy that is full of years of fervent yearning, but there is also an older and more experienced Elizabeth who secretly and unexpectedly develops feelings for Mr. Darcy. Her journey through attraction, esteem, tenderness, and deep love was beautiful. I loved seeing her come to her own understanding of her heart’s desires and her own appreciation of Mr. Darcy. And their scenes together were enchanting, charming, and swoony.
WHAT COULD’VE BEEN BETTER:
Absolutely nothing!
FINAL THOUGHTS:
🌟 Exquisitely unique, accomplished, and stellar – a brilliant contribution to the Austenesque world!
🥹 Adversity and admiration, despair and development, trials and triumph – this story is a comprehensive collection human experiences and emotions.
❤️🩹 A poignant yet inspiring story about the Bennets and the Darcys finding themselves, finding peace, and finding love. I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
March 21, 2025
A multi-trope page turner
The prologue of this book is strikingly atmospheric, as it partly takes place under the sea and instantly creates a sense of mystery and discovery that emerges from its depths. It leaves a lasting impression without revealing too much, as something long-buried stirs beneath the surface. It’s a scene that lingers—the narrative is both haunting and beautifully crafted. From this point, I knew I would not put the book down until I finished it. I love a noteworthy prologue, and I feel this is one of them.
With a tragic event early on that shakes the Bennet family to its core, the first half of the novel is a tearjerker for me. It chronicles the aftermath of Lydia’s elopement with Wickham and offers deeply emotional moments as the Bennets struggle with mourning, isolation, and decisions for their futures. While the first half of the book carries a weight of sorrow, the latter half brings hope to all, and eventually to Darcy, as he and Elizabeth are reunited after several years.
“Elizabeth shook her head in wonder and bemusement. ‘Banishments, elopements, fatal accidents, fighting, insanity, bribery, extortion, shunning, addiction…’ she said, shaking her head and running out of words. ‘If this were a novel, I should think it too far-fetched to read.’”—quote from the book
Yet, that one quote aptly describes Nan Harrison’s No Less Resentment without being over the top. All becomes clear. Will their happiness now be threatened by an unknown enemy? Find out in this must-read Pride and Prejudice variation—a brilliantly-written and plotted novel that brings second chances to many.
Highly recommend. This multi-trope page turner is being added to my 2024 favourites list. If this doesn’t become an audiobook, I will be sorely disappointed.
Kisses only.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
March 20, 2025 - Audiobook
I’m thrilled that this 2024 favourite is now available in audio! I adore this story! Simon Alison’s narration and performance are excellent. The one thing I’d love to hear more from him in future is more distinction between male and female characters. A couple of times, I only realised a different character had begun speaking once the dialogue made it clear. He did great justice to Nan Harrison’s lovely prose, though, and brought out the emotion of the story.
The prologue of this book is strikingly atmospheric, as it partly takes place under the sea and instantly creates a sense of mystery and discovery that emerges from its depths. It leaves a lasting impression without revealing too much, as something long-buried stirs beneath the surface. It’s a scene that lingers—the narrative is both haunting and beautifully crafted. From this point, I knew I would not put the book down until I finished it. I love a noteworthy prologue, and I feel this is one of them.
With a tragic event early on that shakes the Bennet family to its core, the first half of the novel is a tearjerker for me. It chronicles the aftermath of Lydia’s elopement with Wickham and offers deeply emotional moments as the Bennets struggle with mourning, isolation, and decisions for their futures. While the first half of the book carries a weight of sorrow, the latter half brings hope to all, and eventually to Darcy, as he and Elizabeth are reunited after several years.
“Elizabeth shook her head in wonder and bemusement. ‘Banishments, elopements, fatal accidents, fighting, insanity, bribery, extortion, shunning, addiction…’ she said, shaking her head and running out of words. ‘If this were a novel, I should think it too far-fetched to read.’”—quote from the book
Yet, that one quote aptly describes Nan Harrison’s No Less Resentment without being over the top. All becomes clear. Will their happiness now be threatened by an unknown enemy? Find out in this must-read Pride and Prejudice variation—a brilliantly-written and plotted novel that brings second chances to many.
Highly recommend. This multi-trope page turner is being added to my 2024 favourites list. If this doesn’t become an audiobook, I will be sorely disappointed.
Kisses only.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
March 20, 2025 - Audiobook
I’m thrilled that this 2024 favourite is now available in audio! I adore this story! Simon Alison’s narration and performance are excellent. The one thing I’d love to hear more from him in future is more distinction between male and female characters. A couple of times, I only realised a different character had begun speaking once the dialogue made it clear. He did great justice to Nan Harrison’s lovely prose, though, and brought out the emotion of the story.
October 30, 2024
“Anger, resentment and jealousy doesn’t change the heart of others –it only changes yours.” –Shannon Alder, 300 Questions to Ask Your Parents Before It’s Too Late
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: Mature: due to violence, attempted assault, the death of characters, scandal, attempted murder, adult themes described, insanity, a sex scene between consenting adults, and hints at molly relations [m/m love].
>>Angst Alert: stressful as scandal hits two families and villains crawl out of the woodwork.
>>Tissue Alert: Yeah, have a few tissues handy for a tear or two
>>Source: I received a free copy via Booksprout [9-7-24]: I volunteered to leave a review. I read it again [10-29-24] through KU. Yeah, I liked it.
>>Trope: [1] A Bennet dies [2] 2nd Mrs. Bennet [3] Bennet has sons [4] Different pairings for Jane and her sisters [5] Elizabeth and Darcy marry another
“Time doesn’t heal all wounds, only distance can lessen the sting of them.” –Shannon Alder
Oh-My-Gosh! What a story. Two silly young girls made decisions that nearly destroyed their families. The summer before, Georgiana Darcy thought she was in love and nearly eloped with a scoundrel who was after her dowry. Her love letters would be the leverage a villain needed to blackmail her brother into doing their bidding. It would cause a melee the ton would never forget.
“Resentment, born of weakness, harms no one more than the weak person himself.” –Friedrich Nietzsche, Ecce Homo
Lydia Bennet thought it was a lark to slip out of Longbourn in the dark of night and hide in the cart Mr. Wickham hired to take him to London. Her family would implode after that night.
“I eventually came to understand that in harboring the anger, the bitterness and resentment toward those that had hurt me, I was giving the reins of control over to them. Forgiving was not about accepting their words and deeds. Forgiving was about letting go and moving on with my life. In doing so, I had finally set myself free.” –Isabel Lopez, Isabel’s Hand-Me-Down Dreams
Both girls were insensible to the damage they had created while both families were now attempting to manage damage control.
SPOILER ALERT: This review may contain *** SPOILERS ***
>>Rating: Mature: due to violence, attempted assault, the death of characters, scandal, attempted murder, adult themes described, insanity, a sex scene between consenting adults, and hints at molly relations [m/m love].
>>Angst Alert: stressful as scandal hits two families and villains crawl out of the woodwork.
>>Tissue Alert: Yeah, have a few tissues handy for a tear or two
>>Source: I received a free copy via Booksprout [9-7-24]: I volunteered to leave a review. I read it again [10-29-24] through KU. Yeah, I liked it.
>>Trope: [1] A Bennet dies [2] 2nd Mrs. Bennet [3] Bennet has sons [4] Different pairings for Jane and her sisters [5] Elizabeth and Darcy marry another
“Time doesn’t heal all wounds, only distance can lessen the sting of them.” –Shannon Alder
Oh-My-Gosh! What a story. Two silly young girls made decisions that nearly destroyed their families. The summer before, Georgiana Darcy thought she was in love and nearly eloped with a scoundrel who was after her dowry. Her love letters would be the leverage a villain needed to blackmail her brother into doing their bidding. It would cause a melee the ton would never forget.
“Resentment, born of weakness, harms no one more than the weak person himself.” –Friedrich Nietzsche, Ecce Homo
Lydia Bennet thought it was a lark to slip out of Longbourn in the dark of night and hide in the cart Mr. Wickham hired to take him to London. Her family would implode after that night.
“I eventually came to understand that in harboring the anger, the bitterness and resentment toward those that had hurt me, I was giving the reins of control over to them. Forgiving was not about accepting their words and deeds. Forgiving was about letting go and moving on with my life. In doing so, I had finally set myself free.” –Isabel Lopez, Isabel’s Hand-Me-Down Dreams
Both girls were insensible to the damage they had created while both families were now attempting to manage damage control.
January 14, 2025
In this story we have a prologue, which is mysterious. As we then jump into the tale, we soon learn that not only has Lydia eloped with Wickham but also that there is an accident in which she is killed, the Bennet family is thrown into ruin, and with that, isolation. None in the community, even the Phillipses, will deal with them. Soon Mrs. Bennet also succumbs.
The Gardiners are true saviors in that they offer to take each sister in turn to London and help them find husbands. Elizabeth gives up her turn until the last and then her choice is unusual (Not going to spoil it here.) Yes, the other sisters all find matches. (Bingley is not one of those.)
Meanwhile, we find Darcy having to deal with a situation of blackmail which forces him to marry against his will.
Years later the couple again meets. You must know that for them to have their HEA their spouses must be dead. Caroline rears her head and tries to besmurk Elizabeth after all this time.
Mr. Bennet's life also takes on some changes...he remarries! I loved how the servants at Longbourn stood by this family even as the community rejected all contact with them.
There arises a strange event and a mystery as to a certain man's motive as he seems to be lurking nearby Elizabeth
I greatly enjoyed this story and am leaving out many details so as to not spoil it for other readers. I highly recommend this variation.
The Gardiners are true saviors in that they offer to take each sister in turn to London and help them find husbands. Elizabeth gives up her turn until the last and then her choice is unusual (Not going to spoil it here.) Yes, the other sisters all find matches. (Bingley is not one of those.)
Meanwhile, we find Darcy having to deal with a situation of blackmail which forces him to marry against his will.
Years later the couple again meets. You must know that for them to have their HEA their spouses must be dead. Caroline rears her head and tries to besmurk Elizabeth after all this time.
Mr. Bennet's life also takes on some changes...he remarries! I loved how the servants at Longbourn stood by this family even as the community rejected all contact with them.
There arises a strange event and a mystery as to a certain man's motive as he seems to be lurking nearby Elizabeth
I greatly enjoyed this story and am leaving out many details so as to not spoil it for other readers. I highly recommend this variation.
December 2, 2024
Wonderful!! Please keep writing JAFF!
After the Netherfield ball, after the Bingleys and Darcy abandon Netherfield and leave Jane broken hearted, Lydia runs off with Wickham, they have an accident, and both are killed. Instantly the Bennetts are immersed in scandal, and the family is shunned by all in Meryton. Mrs Bennett dies of melancholy within months, and life for the remaining Bennetts is upended. Meanwhile, Darcy is trying to forget Elizabeth, and fights his strong, obsessive attraction to her. Then he gets caught up in a scandal of his own.
This is an extremely angsty tale. The high quantity of melodrama almost put me off as too depressing, but thankfully the author gives us rays of hope, and wonderful new characters that we can care about. This is a swoon worthy Darcy, and a wonderful Elizabeth, just the way we love them to be. It's a very long and fraught road to HEA, but the journey is well worth it.
The book is a very well written re-imagining of the P&P universe, and is well edited. I recommend it highly for a heartbreaking and heartwarming, adventurous, poignant, and lovely tale.
After the Netherfield ball, after the Bingleys and Darcy abandon Netherfield and leave Jane broken hearted, Lydia runs off with Wickham, they have an accident, and both are killed. Instantly the Bennetts are immersed in scandal, and the family is shunned by all in Meryton. Mrs Bennett dies of melancholy within months, and life for the remaining Bennetts is upended. Meanwhile, Darcy is trying to forget Elizabeth, and fights his strong, obsessive attraction to her. Then he gets caught up in a scandal of his own.
This is an extremely angsty tale. The high quantity of melodrama almost put me off as too depressing, but thankfully the author gives us rays of hope, and wonderful new characters that we can care about. This is a swoon worthy Darcy, and a wonderful Elizabeth, just the way we love them to be. It's a very long and fraught road to HEA, but the journey is well worth it.
The book is a very well written re-imagining of the P&P universe, and is well edited. I recommend it highly for a heartbreaking and heartwarming, adventurous, poignant, and lovely tale.
April 29, 2025
Review also posted on my
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Fitzwilliam Darcy met and fell in love with Miss Elizabeth Bennet, during a brief visit to Hertfordshire in 1811.
Unfortunately, her lack of social position, connexions and dowry make her an unlikely wife for a wealthy man.
Her vulgar mother, poorly behaved sisters and ties to trade provide a seemingly insurmountable barrier for a man who must fulfil the demands of his aristocratic family.
After one dance at the Netherfield ball, Darcy flees to London, determined not to succumb to his infatuation.
In retrospect, life for Elizabeth Bennet seems to take a downturn after the ball.
She rejects a ridiculous proposal from her cousin William Collins, to her mother's chagrin.
Her sister Jane is heartbroken after Mr Bingley left Netherfield, without a word.
All this is nothing to the sorrow to come.
The combination of a young girl's folly, a scoundrel and a winter storm results in tragedy and the ruin of the Bennet family.
They are shunned by both gentry and merchants. No longer able to shop in Meryton, they are forced to travel some distance for supplies.
The family and staff are trapped within the borders of their estate, Longbourn. The isolation and the abandonment by friends and relations is hard to bear.
Eventually, they realise that the Bennet daughters must go out into the world, if they are to have any hope of a secure future.
We follow the sister's journeys, alongside the parallel tale of Darcy.
This book is difficult to put down! A rollercoaster of tragedy, angst, hope, love and the menace of deluded narcissist!
I was kept on the edge of my seat and the resolution was so satisfying.
Nan Harrison doesn't put a foot wrong.
Five stars isn't enough!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
Fitzwilliam Darcy met and fell in love with Miss Elizabeth Bennet, during a brief visit to Hertfordshire in 1811.
Unfortunately, her lack of social position, connexions and dowry make her an unlikely wife for a wealthy man.
Her vulgar mother, poorly behaved sisters and ties to trade provide a seemingly insurmountable barrier for a man who must fulfil the demands of his aristocratic family.
After one dance at the Netherfield ball, Darcy flees to London, determined not to succumb to his infatuation.
In retrospect, life for Elizabeth Bennet seems to take a downturn after the ball.
She rejects a ridiculous proposal from her cousin William Collins, to her mother's chagrin.
Her sister Jane is heartbroken after Mr Bingley left Netherfield, without a word.
All this is nothing to the sorrow to come.
The combination of a young girl's folly, a scoundrel and a winter storm results in tragedy and the ruin of the Bennet family.
They are shunned by both gentry and merchants. No longer able to shop in Meryton, they are forced to travel some distance for supplies.
The family and staff are trapped within the borders of their estate, Longbourn. The isolation and the abandonment by friends and relations is hard to bear.
Eventually, they realise that the Bennet daughters must go out into the world, if they are to have any hope of a secure future.
We follow the sister's journeys, alongside the parallel tale of Darcy.
This book is difficult to put down! A rollercoaster of tragedy, angst, hope, love and the menace of deluded narcissist!
I was kept on the edge of my seat and the resolution was so satisfying.
Nan Harrison doesn't put a foot wrong.
Five stars isn't enough!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 10, 2025
This Pride and Prejudice variation made me cry a lot, and not just the tragic parts, but the sweeter parts as well. There is something almost magical about this story, and it's incredibly romantic.
In the Prologue, Mr. Darcy is walking along the seaside in Devonshire, with his sister and her husband, when he notices something in the water. It bobs along, seeming to follow him as he moves along the shore. His sister even notices this. He finally captures the object from the water. It's a tiny, round wooden box, and when he is able to get it open, he finds inside, wrapped in protective coverings, a "lover's-eye" pendant. And he is dumbfounded, because he recognizes the eye depicted on it as belonging to Elizabeth Bennet, the girl he fell for, but left behind in Hertfordshire, years ago. He wonders what became of her.
We learn what became of her in the following chapters, which revert to the past, beginning shortly after the Netherfield ball. The scenes switch back and forth between Elizabeth's and Darcy's points of view. Shortly after the ball and the departure of the Netherfield party for London, Lydia runs off with Wickham, only to meet with immediate tragedy. A storm causes both to be killed in a carriage accident. Because she was running off with a man not her husband at the time she was killed, Lydia's death immerses her family in scandal. They're shunned by the local community.
I won't go into further events, but let me say this is one of the best P&P variations I've read. I especially liked learning of Mrs. Hill's past (and future), and how the sisters meet their eventual husbands, how immersed in the arts the entire family becomes. Elizabeth is in for some adventures, and there's even a thriller aspect to part of the story. I'm so glad I read this.
In the Prologue, Mr. Darcy is walking along the seaside in Devonshire, with his sister and her husband, when he notices something in the water. It bobs along, seeming to follow him as he moves along the shore. His sister even notices this. He finally captures the object from the water. It's a tiny, round wooden box, and when he is able to get it open, he finds inside, wrapped in protective coverings, a "lover's-eye" pendant. And he is dumbfounded, because he recognizes the eye depicted on it as belonging to Elizabeth Bennet, the girl he fell for, but left behind in Hertfordshire, years ago. He wonders what became of her.
We learn what became of her in the following chapters, which revert to the past, beginning shortly after the Netherfield ball. The scenes switch back and forth between Elizabeth's and Darcy's points of view. Shortly after the ball and the departure of the Netherfield party for London, Lydia runs off with Wickham, only to meet with immediate tragedy. A storm causes both to be killed in a carriage accident. Because she was running off with a man not her husband at the time she was killed, Lydia's death immerses her family in scandal. They're shunned by the local community.
I won't go into further events, but let me say this is one of the best P&P variations I've read. I especially liked learning of Mrs. Hill's past (and future), and how the sisters meet their eventual husbands, how immersed in the arts the entire family becomes. Elizabeth is in for some adventures, and there's even a thriller aspect to part of the story. I'm so glad I read this.
October 23, 2024
Madness, evil, mysteries and lost loves
Absolutely a must read novel. It is chock full of of all sorts of sadness, gladness and every sort of interesting happenings. But beware, once you pick it up you may have a hard time putting it down. Also there is a very small bit of fate/magic to help things along.
Might be better if you have some ginger tea with a dollop of honey and cheese and fruit board next to you.
Absolutely a must read novel. It is chock full of of all sorts of sadness, gladness and every sort of interesting happenings. But beware, once you pick it up you may have a hard time putting it down. Also there is a very small bit of fate/magic to help things along.
Might be better if you have some ginger tea with a dollop of honey and cheese and fruit board next to you.
January 13, 2025
Review Published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
No Less Resentment is a unique Pride & Prejudice Variation in which a tragic accident leaves the Bennet family in mourning and social disgrace, forcing the Bennet sisters to seek marriages in London for respectability. Years later, when Mr. Darcy learns of their plight, he fights for a second chance to be happy with Elizabeth, the only woman he has ever loved and whom he is decided to make his wife.
This is certainly a unique take on Pride and Prejudice! Rather than changing just one detail in the narrative, the author reshapes the entire storyline and reimagines the entire Bennet family’s circumstances, creating a fresh, unique and exciting plot that is deeply engaging.
I loved how this plot gave so many opportunities for deeper character exploration and growth. The new element the author brought to this story allowed us to see how each character reacted to their predicament, how they each grew, adapted and changed, and how their family dynamics were affected too. I loved the fact that in this book each character was compelling, with distinct and engaging arcs that added depth to the narrative. It is true that later in the story they all seemed incredibly lucky, and that everyone found happiness way too fast, but still all elements in the different storylines aligned perfectly, making this book very solid.
The writing style was exquisite and combined with the unique plot gave this book a very special vibe. The way this story is told is absolutely absorbing and every event is skillfully written with plenty of unique twists and changes unfolding throughout the story. I was completely glued to the pages of the book and could not let it go. I felt I was living this story right there with the characters, living what they were living and feeling what they were feeling.
The fact that both Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth were a little older than usual in this book was also another aspect I absolutely loved because it gave these characters maturity to deal with circumstances in a different manner. In my opinion, it made their love story even more compelling and meaningful.
Another aspect I loved was Mr. Darcy’s unwavering love. The strength of Darcy’s love and the patience he had to win over Elizabeth was touching, ardent and unforgettable.
Summing Up, No Less Resentment is a book you won’t want to miss! With its unique and compelling plot, beautifully crafted writing, and intricate subplots (Mr. Bennet’s story in particular), it offers much more than just a love story. The romance is deeply emotional and powerful, and the character development is exceptional. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who cherishes well-written literature.
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
No Less Resentment is a unique Pride & Prejudice Variation in which a tragic accident leaves the Bennet family in mourning and social disgrace, forcing the Bennet sisters to seek marriages in London for respectability. Years later, when Mr. Darcy learns of their plight, he fights for a second chance to be happy with Elizabeth, the only woman he has ever loved and whom he is decided to make his wife.
This is certainly a unique take on Pride and Prejudice! Rather than changing just one detail in the narrative, the author reshapes the entire storyline and reimagines the entire Bennet family’s circumstances, creating a fresh, unique and exciting plot that is deeply engaging.
I loved how this plot gave so many opportunities for deeper character exploration and growth. The new element the author brought to this story allowed us to see how each character reacted to their predicament, how they each grew, adapted and changed, and how their family dynamics were affected too. I loved the fact that in this book each character was compelling, with distinct and engaging arcs that added depth to the narrative. It is true that later in the story they all seemed incredibly lucky, and that everyone found happiness way too fast, but still all elements in the different storylines aligned perfectly, making this book very solid.
The writing style was exquisite and combined with the unique plot gave this book a very special vibe. The way this story is told is absolutely absorbing and every event is skillfully written with plenty of unique twists and changes unfolding throughout the story. I was completely glued to the pages of the book and could not let it go. I felt I was living this story right there with the characters, living what they were living and feeling what they were feeling.
The fact that both Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth were a little older than usual in this book was also another aspect I absolutely loved because it gave these characters maturity to deal with circumstances in a different manner. In my opinion, it made their love story even more compelling and meaningful.
Another aspect I loved was Mr. Darcy’s unwavering love. The strength of Darcy’s love and the patience he had to win over Elizabeth was touching, ardent and unforgettable.
Summing Up, No Less Resentment is a book you won’t want to miss! With its unique and compelling plot, beautifully crafted writing, and intricate subplots (Mr. Bennet’s story in particular), it offers much more than just a love story. The romance is deeply emotional and powerful, and the character development is exceptional. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who cherishes well-written literature.
October 13, 2024
This book is an absolute gem for the JAFF community. It is a fresh, unique and entertaining story that does not skimp on anything that a P&PV reader looks for. There is such a richness to the characters and the descriptions of their surroundings that made this reader feel transported to a place I could easily visualize with people that I could easily feel connected to.
Of course, there will always be a troublemaker or two, and poor Darcy's #1 least favorite leech and a local shrew turn their petty jealousies and hatred into plans to further their own interests. {When has that ever worked for a nemesis in JAFF?}
When you read this book, and you absolutely have to if you're into JAFF, definitely carve out the time to read it all in one sitting. Once you start this story you will definitely not want to put it down to "finish later" it's just too good.
I eagerly look forward to more from this talented author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Of course, there will always be a troublemaker or two, and poor Darcy's #1 least favorite leech and a local shrew turn their petty jealousies and hatred into plans to further their own interests. {When has that ever worked for a nemesis in JAFF?}
When you read this book, and you absolutely have to if you're into JAFF, definitely carve out the time to read it all in one sitting. Once you start this story you will definitely not want to put it down to "finish later" it's just too good.
I eagerly look forward to more from this talented author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 24, 2024
Much to love
Ms Harrison takes us down a new path with our treasured friends. The first years for the Bennets are brutal. Lizzy and Darcy find their way to each other, of course, and their friends and families are everything lovely.
However, I found myself most drawn to the class fluidity. Most books tread lightly on this theme, and usually concern themselves solely with the upwardly mobile Gardiners. This book melds classes throughout, whether looking at the naval band if brothers or the daily life at Longbourn. Hill plays a unique role that I will long remember, although the power of that role is weakened by a small jolt of deus ex machina.
I will be buying this for my permanent collection.
Ms Harrison takes us down a new path with our treasured friends. The first years for the Bennets are brutal. Lizzy and Darcy find their way to each other, of course, and their friends and families are everything lovely.
However, I found myself most drawn to the class fluidity. Most books tread lightly on this theme, and usually concern themselves solely with the upwardly mobile Gardiners. This book melds classes throughout, whether looking at the naval band if brothers or the daily life at Longbourn. Hill plays a unique role that I will long remember, although the power of that role is weakened by a small jolt of deus ex machina.
I will be buying this for my permanent collection.
January 16, 2025
A bit too longwinded and farfetched for my taste.
March 22, 2025
Subtitled ‘Elizabeth’s Adventures as a ‘beard.’
This is a really great story. I have read so many variations at this point (over the last nine years) that I rarely read one (any more) that is without a trope that has been thoroughly exhausted by other writers before.
What I loved: The clever way E & D are both widowed and yet never really married, Mr. Bennet’s unconventional response to his community, the disposition of the family at Rosings, the surprise of Charlotte’s resolution, Bingley’s bland character revision, and the surprising way each sister marries a humble man who achieves more because of their Bennet spouse. There are so many intricate ways the author weaves their lives together.
I also loved that this story frequently made me chuckle.
Highly recommended, so entertaining I listened to the whole thing in one day, the audio book equivalent to “couldn’t put it down.”
Congratulations to the author. I loved Any Fair Interference and will eagerly await the next book.
This is a really great story. I have read so many variations at this point (over the last nine years) that I rarely read one (any more) that is without a trope that has been thoroughly exhausted by other writers before.
What I loved: The clever way E & D are both widowed and yet never really married, Mr. Bennet’s unconventional response to his community, the disposition of the family at Rosings, the surprise of Charlotte’s resolution, Bingley’s bland character revision, and the surprising way each sister marries a humble man who achieves more because of their Bennet spouse. There are so many intricate ways the author weaves their lives together.
I also loved that this story frequently made me chuckle.
Highly recommended, so entertaining I listened to the whole thing in one day, the audio book equivalent to “couldn’t put it down.”
Congratulations to the author. I loved Any Fair Interference and will eagerly await the next book.
November 26, 2024
Mildly angsty version which diverges from canon after the Netherfield ball. I was actually up for a bit more angst but it was nevertheless a charming read.
April 18, 2025
Status: Read April 8-15, 2025 via audible edition
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Library Notes:
No Less Resentment
by Nan Harrison, Simon Alison (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 10 pages
Published March 18, 2025 by Quills & Quartos Publishing (first published September 7, 2024)
ASIN: B0F1V5T336
All of his efforts to forget her had failed, and he had accepted that some part of her would always be with him.
In the winter of 1812, a fatal accident on a stormy night plunges the Bennet family into mourning and scandal. Shunned and isolated from nearly everyone they have ever known and loved, each of the Bennet sisters hurries to marry, to provide themselves the respectability of married women. Miss Elizabeth Bennet settles into marriage of prudence with a man she respects but could never completely love.
Fitzwilliam Darcy left Hertfordshire determined to put Elizabeth Bennet and her fine eyes behind him. Disgusted by society and plagued by memories he would just as soon forget, he tries to seclude himself at Pemberley. Alas, the treachery and extortion of someone he once trusted leads him to settle into a marriage both he and his bride despise.
Shortly after he becomes a widower, a chance discovery on a beach in Devon brings Elizabeth Bennet back to Darcy’s mind. Not knowing anything of what has befallen her in the years since that fateful autumn in Hertfordshire, he sets out to find her and, if possible, court her.
Will the tumult both have endured in the years since last they met be put aside? Will their long-awaited second chance at love finally lead to happily ever after?
Listening Length: 9 hours and 14 minutes
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Library Notes:
No Less Resentment
by Nan Harrison, Simon Alison (Narrator)
Audible Audio, Unabridged, 10 pages
Published March 18, 2025 by Quills & Quartos Publishing (first published September 7, 2024)
ASIN: B0F1V5T336
All of his efforts to forget her had failed, and he had accepted that some part of her would always be with him.
In the winter of 1812, a fatal accident on a stormy night plunges the Bennet family into mourning and scandal. Shunned and isolated from nearly everyone they have ever known and loved, each of the Bennet sisters hurries to marry, to provide themselves the respectability of married women. Miss Elizabeth Bennet settles into marriage of prudence with a man she respects but could never completely love.
Fitzwilliam Darcy left Hertfordshire determined to put Elizabeth Bennet and her fine eyes behind him. Disgusted by society and plagued by memories he would just as soon forget, he tries to seclude himself at Pemberley. Alas, the treachery and extortion of someone he once trusted leads him to settle into a marriage both he and his bride despise.
Shortly after he becomes a widower, a chance discovery on a beach in Devon brings Elizabeth Bennet back to Darcy’s mind. Not knowing anything of what has befallen her in the years since that fateful autumn in Hertfordshire, he sets out to find her and, if possible, court her.
Will the tumult both have endured in the years since last they met be put aside? Will their long-awaited second chance at love finally lead to happily ever after?
Listening Length: 9 hours and 14 minutes
November 7, 2024
overall I’d give it a 4.5
I liked the premise, the character development in all fronts was realistic, and it was nice to see some of the secondary characters fleshed out more and getting a more prominent part in the story.
my thoughts
• I love petty Mr Bennett 😂 taking the family pew after he was shamed by the rector? 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
• it seems slightly unrealistic that the “scandal” wouldn’t reach London at all and impact the girls marriages. much as I loved that they all ended up with men that became prominent it seemed slightly unrealistic
• the drama at the end with the crazy dude seemed unnecessary, there was already drama at the beginning does the plot really need more conflict? it worked but whyy
• lord knows I love Elizabeth and Darcy but why on earth is everyone in their life totally fine with them just shacking up in her beach house the day before the wedding and going at it 💀 I get they’re both widow/widower but still
overall a highly enjoyable read, would reread
prob 15+ no explicit scenes…closed door “ish”
I liked the premise, the character development in all fronts was realistic, and it was nice to see some of the secondary characters fleshed out more and getting a more prominent part in the story.
my thoughts
• I love petty Mr Bennett 😂 taking the family pew after he was shamed by the rector? 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
• it seems slightly unrealistic that the “scandal” wouldn’t reach London at all and impact the girls marriages. much as I loved that they all ended up with men that became prominent it seemed slightly unrealistic
• the drama at the end with the crazy dude seemed unnecessary, there was already drama at the beginning does the plot really need more conflict? it worked but whyy
• lord knows I love Elizabeth and Darcy but why on earth is everyone in their life totally fine with them just shacking up in her beach house the day before the wedding and going at it 💀 I get they’re both widow/widower but still
overall a highly enjoyable read, would reread
prob 15+ no explicit scenes…closed door “ish”
October 17, 2024
The Prologue was a bit of a tease and at first I was impatient to get to ODC, but it didn't take long to be charmed into the pace of the story telling (knowing we'd get there eventually get there) and just enjoyed the scenes painted along the way. It was lovely to see (most of) the characters grow and mature, to share their triumphs and grief. I laughed with them and shed a few tears for them. The pace picks up once ODC are reacquainted and some drama. I won't spoil it though. It left me with a smile.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 18, 2024
A fatal accident in winter 1812 leaves the Bennet family in deep mourning and forever changed. Due to the scandal caused by the accident they are isolated and shunned by their neighbours. Therefore each sister hurries to grasp what happiness life has still to offer her and marries quickly. Elizabeth finds herself in marriage of convenience. She does not love her husband but they are friends and respect each other.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has left Hertfordshire after Bingley's ball with the aim to forget Elizabeth. Disgusted from society he retreats to Pemberley to find solace. But the treachery of someone he once trusted forces him in a union he and his bride despise.
After being widowed a chance discovery brings the memories of Elizabeth back in his life and with them the intention of finding and, if possible, courting her. Will Darcy be able to find her? What will he do when he finally discovers what has befallen her since he left her in 1812? Will there be a second chance for their love?
The book was very well written by the author Nan Harrison. It was the first book that I read from this author but I like the writing style very much and am looking forward to reading more.
For me, the book can be parted in two halves. The first half feels like things get worse, there is more heartbreak, especially for Elizabeth and Darcy, and things feel heavier. In the second half, when they finally meet again, I got the feeling that all was brighter, there was hope, there was love. Don't get me wrong, the first half was not only glumy and dark, the sisters find happiness and all family members settle in their new lives and even Darcy arranged himself in his situation without Elizabeth and is content, but there was an overall sadness of lost chances that maybe only I personally felt or got the impression of.
I really like that, despite all the live changing events, each member of the Bennet family is able to find happiness again. I will not tell you more to not spoil the story but in the end everyone is happy and content again and their station in life is a better one than before. I really liked this, most of all because I had not expected it after that beginning.
What I also really liked was that the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is without many misunderstandings. Both are changed through circumstances and their new connections and both are more mature. And after the first half with all the challenges for both Darcy and Elizabeth it was well deserved for both to find a way to come together without being again torn apart by events or actions of others.
I loved Darcy's devotion to Elizabeth and his determination to finally have her as his wife's. He never forgets her the whole time and when he finally encounters her again he is determined not to let this chance slip. And due to the changes in his attitude life has forced on him he is able to woo Elizabeth properly and in the way she deserves it.
Darcy's remaining family, mainly the Colonel and Georgina are very caring and supportive. After he had to endure a marriage he despised they want nothing more than to see him happy and therefore try to help him as best as they can.
There is only one point I want to criticize a bit: there is an old woman who rejoices in the downfall of the Bennet family. She appears later again but I got the feeling that this story trait was not resolved. She longs for revenge but in my opinion she never was completely successful and therefore I did expect her to try again and I waited all the time that there was something more to come from her, but there was not.
Speaking of villains, the known villains Wickham and Lady Catherine are also part of the story. Their appearance is, in each case, short but they both cause significant, unalterable damage before they both get what they deserve.
There is another villain who is mostly part of the second half of the book. It's a new villain and their present keeps the story thrilling to the end because first they are not revealed or caught.
If you like to know how the impacts of an accident and the linked scandal leads Elizabeth to find safety in a marriage of convenience and how Darcy and Elizabeth can nevertheless find happiness when they encounter each other, now widowed, again you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has left Hertfordshire after Bingley's ball with the aim to forget Elizabeth. Disgusted from society he retreats to Pemberley to find solace. But the treachery of someone he once trusted forces him in a union he and his bride despise.
After being widowed a chance discovery brings the memories of Elizabeth back in his life and with them the intention of finding and, if possible, courting her. Will Darcy be able to find her? What will he do when he finally discovers what has befallen her since he left her in 1812? Will there be a second chance for their love?
The book was very well written by the author Nan Harrison. It was the first book that I read from this author but I like the writing style very much and am looking forward to reading more.
For me, the book can be parted in two halves. The first half feels like things get worse, there is more heartbreak, especially for Elizabeth and Darcy, and things feel heavier. In the second half, when they finally meet again, I got the feeling that all was brighter, there was hope, there was love. Don't get me wrong, the first half was not only glumy and dark, the sisters find happiness and all family members settle in their new lives and even Darcy arranged himself in his situation without Elizabeth and is content, but there was an overall sadness of lost chances that maybe only I personally felt or got the impression of.
I really like that, despite all the live changing events, each member of the Bennet family is able to find happiness again. I will not tell you more to not spoil the story but in the end everyone is happy and content again and their station in life is a better one than before. I really liked this, most of all because I had not expected it after that beginning.
What I also really liked was that the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is without many misunderstandings. Both are changed through circumstances and their new connections and both are more mature. And after the first half with all the challenges for both Darcy and Elizabeth it was well deserved for both to find a way to come together without being again torn apart by events or actions of others.
I loved Darcy's devotion to Elizabeth and his determination to finally have her as his wife's. He never forgets her the whole time and when he finally encounters her again he is determined not to let this chance slip. And due to the changes in his attitude life has forced on him he is able to woo Elizabeth properly and in the way she deserves it.
Darcy's remaining family, mainly the Colonel and Georgina are very caring and supportive. After he had to endure a marriage he despised they want nothing more than to see him happy and therefore try to help him as best as they can.
There is only one point I want to criticize a bit: there is an old woman who rejoices in the downfall of the Bennet family. She appears later again but I got the feeling that this story trait was not resolved. She longs for revenge but in my opinion she never was completely successful and therefore I did expect her to try again and I waited all the time that there was something more to come from her, but there was not.
Speaking of villains, the known villains Wickham and Lady Catherine are also part of the story. Their appearance is, in each case, short but they both cause significant, unalterable damage before they both get what they deserve.
There is another villain who is mostly part of the second half of the book. It's a new villain and their present keeps the story thrilling to the end because first they are not revealed or caught.
If you like to know how the impacts of an accident and the linked scandal leads Elizabeth to find safety in a marriage of convenience and how Darcy and Elizabeth can nevertheless find happiness when they encounter each other, now widowed, again you should definitely read this excellent book.
I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 20, 2025
Premise: Scandal strikes the Bennet family when Lydia and Wickham are killed in an accident as Wickham is deserting the militia (Lydia snuck off and stowed away in the wagon thinking it all a great joke). They are systematically ostracized, even worse than might be expected due to the machinations of a woman who felt Mr Bennet scorned her when he married Mrs Bennet. Soon they are entirely isolated and Mrs Bennet dies of an illness. The girls are sent off one by one to the Gardiners to find good matches. It's super effective!
All the while, Darcy can't stop thinking about Elizabeth and begins reordering his priorities.
What I liked: I'm not usually a big fan of second chance stories with a large gap of years before ODC meet again (particularly one's where they married other people--meaning they have to be widowed before they can marry each other), but this was absolutely delightful. I loved each of the Bennet sisters husbands and how well suited they were. Jane's small gentle revenge on Caroline made me laugh. I also loved Darcy's realization that his lady-Catherine-related scandal is a million times worse than the idea of him marrying a country miss ever would have been.
Characterization: All the Bennet girls improve greatly over the six year timespan. Mr Bennet improves as well, and Darcy too. Lady Catherine is more vindictive and jealous, and actively cruel to her daughter. Anne de Bourgh responds the only way she knows how.
Spice level: Medium-ish. Kisses and imaginings, but a fade-to-black wedding night.
Any non-canon parings: Yes.
Other notes or issues: I really loved this. If I could have anything more, it would be some face-to-face encounters with Caroline and the Bennet sisters, and with that evil hag who made life so much worse in Meryton. And really, why did the shopkeepers listen to her? When you ostracize the leading family in the neighborhood, one that includes book-loving Mr Bennet and four girls who all need dresses and notions, it's no wonder the bookshop and other stores close up. Serves you right, biddies!
All the while, Darcy can't stop thinking about Elizabeth and begins reordering his priorities.
What I liked: I'm not usually a big fan of second chance stories with a large gap of years before ODC meet again (particularly one's where they married other people--meaning they have to be widowed before they can marry each other), but this was absolutely delightful. I loved each of the Bennet sisters husbands and how well suited they were. Jane's small gentle revenge on Caroline made me laugh. I also loved Darcy's realization that his lady-Catherine-related scandal is a million times worse than the idea of him marrying a country miss ever would have been.
Characterization: All the Bennet girls improve greatly over the six year timespan. Mr Bennet improves as well, and Darcy too. Lady Catherine is more vindictive and jealous, and actively cruel to her daughter. Anne de Bourgh responds the only way she knows how.
Spice level: Medium-ish. Kisses and imaginings, but a fade-to-black wedding night.
Any non-canon parings: Yes.
Other notes or issues: I really loved this. If I could have anything more, it would be some face-to-face encounters with Caroline and the Bennet sisters, and with that evil hag who made life so much worse in Meryton. And really, why did the shopkeepers listen to her? When you ostracize the leading family in the neighborhood, one that includes book-loving Mr Bennet and four girls who all need dresses and notions, it's no wonder the bookshop and other stores close up. Serves you right, biddies!
November 15, 2024
This is one of the better Pride and Prejudice variations I have read. It was really quite compelling. The one thing that was very disappointing was that E & D anticipated their vows. Nothing was explicit, but it was not true to their characters.
Read
October 24, 2024DNF. Excellent story, plausible plot, but when the book started to focus on ODC I couldn’t feel the passion. The action part was much better than the romantic part in my opinion.
July 13, 2025
I liked this a lot - a traditional (same time/setting, nothing paranormal) twist. This could be an alternate timeline. At one point it's said “If this were a novel, I should think it too far-fetched to read” and yet nothing was really that far-fetched.
There were some profound thoughts on resentment - that it harms the "resenting" person the most, to look back and remember the good instead of dwelling on the bad. The Bennet family has some tough things to overcome ... and they do. There was a lot covered in Ch40 as Darcy and Lizzie tell each other of what they have been through. I liked Elizabeth's statement "we refused to be ruined" ...
No proFanity - Lots of words I note (and I'm sure I didn't get them all, listening to the audio I didn't stop to get everything jotted down or found in the Kindle copy to highlight) ... some not really unusual in the time period: penultimate, perfidious, accoutrements, careen, nemesis, perambulation, seldom, smirk, dais
Not completely without sexual stuff, but pretty minor ...
I often feel P&P retellings have a specific audience, once who can't help but be generous in their ratings. There may be a tiny bit of that happening here, I'm not sure if this totally is up there with other 5* reads ... but then again, it was very well written and (after a bit of a bumpy start) I was very drawn in to the story. The beginning was just a bit disjointed, starting "ahead" (1817) and then going back to 1812 and building to and beyond the prologue point. It's Darcy's POV in the prologue, then Wickham's in the first paragraph of the first chapter, before switching to Elizabeth's POV.
SPOILERS ... just for my own memory (as it's easy for all these variations to run together in memory)
With a current KindleUnlimited AND Audible promotion (three months for each) I purposely went looking for items that I had temporary access to. Happy to see the audio included in the Plus catalog, and the Kindle copy on KindleUnlimited. Single(male) narrator, well done.
There were some profound thoughts on resentment - that it harms the "resenting" person the most, to look back and remember the good instead of dwelling on the bad. The Bennet family has some tough things to overcome ... and they do. There was a lot covered in Ch40 as Darcy and Lizzie tell each other of what they have been through. I liked Elizabeth's statement "we refused to be ruined" ...
No proFanity - Lots of words I note (and I'm sure I didn't get them all, listening to the audio I didn't stop to get everything jotted down or found in the Kindle copy to highlight) ... some not really unusual in the time period: penultimate, perfidious, accoutrements, careen, nemesis, perambulation, seldom, smirk, dais
Not completely without sexual stuff, but pretty minor ...
I often feel P&P retellings have a specific audience, once who can't help but be generous in their ratings. There may be a tiny bit of that happening here, I'm not sure if this totally is up there with other 5* reads ... but then again, it was very well written and (after a bit of a bumpy start) I was very drawn in to the story. The beginning was just a bit disjointed, starting "ahead" (1817) and then going back to 1812 and building to and beyond the prologue point. It's Darcy's POV in the prologue, then Wickham's in the first paragraph of the first chapter, before switching to Elizabeth's POV.
SPOILERS ... just for my own memory (as it's easy for all these variations to run together in memory)
With a current KindleUnlimited AND Audible promotion (three months for each) I purposely went looking for items that I had temporary access to. Happy to see the audio included in the Plus catalog, and the Kindle copy on KindleUnlimited. Single(male) narrator, well done.
December 11, 2024
Amazing... Simply amazing
I rarely enjoy anything a much as this. I'm practically speechless, which is virtually unheard of from me. I just want to bask in the afterglow of this novel. I never thought I'd maybe enjoy something as much of more than the original, but this may be it. I enjoyed the character development of this so much, and it's such a good alternative reality. I'm not even upset about the things I thought I would be.
I definitely cried a few times - I'm rarely moved to tears. Ms. Harrison took what Jane Austen provided and gave us a different, interesting, compelling, heart-wrenching, intelligent look on what could've been. I absolutely loved it and I nearly never give such high praise. I don't want to ruin it, but it kind of answers every "what if?" we've all wondered about but accepted we'd never get, as Austen's version was so important, smart, excellently crafted, moralistic, and obviously *appropriate* for the time and her circumstances. We're so lucky Harrison is of our time and not similarly restricted, yet so talented as to still keep this story pretty well demure for our times. Again, no spoilers, but is not indecorous, it is tasteful. I felt so many emotions, right along with the characters. I actually prefer the life and experiences allowed for by the age and experiences allowed in this version. My heart is always with Austen, but if you can't have her and you feel like you need or want alternative explanation with your beloved and have characters, this is it.
Highly recommend!!!
I've read a lot of variations and fanfic for this novel, but this one it's possibly...probably the best. I have kind other variation I felt very strongly (positively) about, but I think this answers our needs...better. (Read other reviews of mine to find it - I've only written maybe 3-4 total, including this one. I only review the ones I feel intensely about.)
I rarely enjoy anything a much as this. I'm practically speechless, which is virtually unheard of from me. I just want to bask in the afterglow of this novel. I never thought I'd maybe enjoy something as much of more than the original, but this may be it. I enjoyed the character development of this so much, and it's such a good alternative reality. I'm not even upset about the things I thought I would be.
I definitely cried a few times - I'm rarely moved to tears. Ms. Harrison took what Jane Austen provided and gave us a different, interesting, compelling, heart-wrenching, intelligent look on what could've been. I absolutely loved it and I nearly never give such high praise. I don't want to ruin it, but it kind of answers every "what if?" we've all wondered about but accepted we'd never get, as Austen's version was so important, smart, excellently crafted, moralistic, and obviously *appropriate* for the time and her circumstances. We're so lucky Harrison is of our time and not similarly restricted, yet so talented as to still keep this story pretty well demure for our times. Again, no spoilers, but is not indecorous, it is tasteful. I felt so many emotions, right along with the characters. I actually prefer the life and experiences allowed for by the age and experiences allowed in this version. My heart is always with Austen, but if you can't have her and you feel like you need or want alternative explanation with your beloved and have characters, this is it.
Highly recommend!!!
I've read a lot of variations and fanfic for this novel, but this one it's possibly...probably the best. I have kind other variation I felt very strongly (positively) about, but I think this answers our needs...better. (Read other reviews of mine to find it - I've only written maybe 3-4 total, including this one. I only review the ones I feel intensely about.)
October 30, 2024
This is a long story that covers the space of several years. Circumstances are different and the lives of the pretty much everyone from the original story are completely different. The Bennet family is not only disgraced when Lydia runs off with Wickham, but this is coupled with a tragedy that prevents any way to salvage the situation or redeem Lydia or the reputation of the Bennet family. Shunned by the society that they had always been a part of, the Bennet daughters now must look elsewhere to secure their futures.
As the story continues, we see each of the remaining Bennet daughters have their opportunity to forge a better life. Elizabeth and Darcy both marry other people initially, but as in every good P&P variation, they do, of course, eventually find their way to each other for their happily ever after.
This was a good story and there were many things to like and a few I didn’t. For me, it did seem to drag a bit in places making me feel the length of the book. I also felt there were some plausibility issues. For example, I always felt it unlikely that any person could be identified by a painting of an eye- even a very fine eye! I also think it unlikely that a scandalized and disgraced family would be able to marry all four daughters off so advantageously. I want to believe it, so I go with the flow, but my inner voice always doubts the possibility of this given this time period and the rigidness of it. The de Bourgh storyline went a little off the rails IMO. These are small issues and overall, this is a very good and interesting story with all of our favorite characters as well as some new ones that were very fun to get to know in this story. The book is very well written and flowed nicely. I look forward to more works by this author.
As the story continues, we see each of the remaining Bennet daughters have their opportunity to forge a better life. Elizabeth and Darcy both marry other people initially, but as in every good P&P variation, they do, of course, eventually find their way to each other for their happily ever after.
This was a good story and there were many things to like and a few I didn’t. For me, it did seem to drag a bit in places making me feel the length of the book. I also felt there were some plausibility issues. For example, I always felt it unlikely that any person could be identified by a painting of an eye- even a very fine eye! I also think it unlikely that a scandalized and disgraced family would be able to marry all four daughters off so advantageously. I want to believe it, so I go with the flow, but my inner voice always doubts the possibility of this given this time period and the rigidness of it. The de Bourgh storyline went a little off the rails IMO. These are small issues and overall, this is a very good and interesting story with all of our favorite characters as well as some new ones that were very fun to get to know in this story. The book is very well written and flowed nicely. I look forward to more works by this author.
November 8, 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. All of his efforts to forget her had failed, and he had accepted that some part of her would always be with him. In the winter of 1812, a fatal accident on a stormy night plunges the Bennet family into mourning and scandal. Shunned and isolated from nearly everyone they have ever known and loved each of the Bennet sisters hurries to marry, to provide themselves the respectability of married women. Miss Elizabeth Bennet settles into marriage of prudence with a man she respects but could never completely love. Fitzwilliam Darcy left Hertfordshire determined to put Elizabeth Bennet and her fine eyes behind him. Disgusted by society and plagued by memories he would just as soon forget, he tries to seclude himself at Pemberley. Alas, the treachery and extortion of someone he once trusted leads him to settle into a marriage both he and his bride despise. Shortly after he becomes a widower, a chance discovery on a beach in Devon brings Elizabeth Bennet back to Darcy’s mind. Not knowing anything of what has befallen her in the years since that fateful autumn in Hertfordshire he sets out to find her and, if possible, court her. Will the tumult both have endured in the years since last they met be put aside? Will their long-awaited second chance at love finally lead to happily ever after? 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. All of his efforts to forget her had failed, and he had accepted that some part of her would always be with him. In the winter of 1812, a fatal accident on a stormy night plunges the Bennet family into mourning and scandal. Shunned and isolated from nearly everyone they have ever known and loved each of the Bennet sisters hurries to marry, to provide themselves the respectability of married women. Miss Elizabeth Bennet settles into marriage of prudence with a man she respects but could never completely love. Fitzwilliam Darcy left Hertfordshire determined to put Elizabeth Bennet and her fine eyes behind him. Disgusted by society and plagued by memories he would just as soon forget, he tries to seclude himself at Pemberley. Alas, the treachery and extortion of someone he once trusted leads him to settle into a marriage both he and his bride despise. Shortly after he becomes a widower, a chance discovery on a beach in Devon brings Elizabeth Bennet back to Darcy’s mind. Not knowing anything of what has befallen her in the years since that fateful autumn in Hertfordshire he sets out to find her and, if possible, court her. Will the tumult both have endured in the years since last they met be put aside? Will their long-awaited second chance at love finally lead to happily ever after? 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.
September 13, 2024
“It is she, Georgiana. The widow Mrs Bancroft is the former Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”
I love the way that the plot is so diversifying in its content and scene and twist of events; while at the same time everything was happening around Elizabeth and Darcy, focusing on the world that ties them together. Some of the plot lines are left without definite results or ending but the influences and impacts of them on our ODC are implied and hinted, which leaves me a sense of satisfaction when reading along. Depth of the meaning is often brought by feeling but by just seeing. And all the people around them are given clear personality by direct beautiful words or indirect histories that make them real and vivid in mind.
I love the idea that Elizabeth had been given the chance to do more than any lady in the Regency era (or perhaps even nowadays) was expected to or could even imagine to. Mature and brave and kind with wisdom, how her character and personality made her the person she could be. Not the mean girl anymore, she recognised her weakness and was not afraid of challenge and adventure.
I love the fact that Darcy tried to change his behaviour not by Elizabeth’s reproach or accusation, but by the desire that he wished for her approval. They did not even know each other well, there was no Hunsford car crash; yet the force existed and made him a different person.
The use of words is so beautiful, precise, effective and just right and I enjoyed every second reading the book. Must read.
I love the way that the plot is so diversifying in its content and scene and twist of events; while at the same time everything was happening around Elizabeth and Darcy, focusing on the world that ties them together. Some of the plot lines are left without definite results or ending but the influences and impacts of them on our ODC are implied and hinted, which leaves me a sense of satisfaction when reading along. Depth of the meaning is often brought by feeling but by just seeing. And all the people around them are given clear personality by direct beautiful words or indirect histories that make them real and vivid in mind.
I love the idea that Elizabeth had been given the chance to do more than any lady in the Regency era (or perhaps even nowadays) was expected to or could even imagine to. Mature and brave and kind with wisdom, how her character and personality made her the person she could be. Not the mean girl anymore, she recognised her weakness and was not afraid of challenge and adventure.
I love the fact that Darcy tried to change his behaviour not by Elizabeth’s reproach or accusation, but by the desire that he wished for her approval. They did not even know each other well, there was no Hunsford car crash; yet the force existed and made him a different person.
The use of words is so beautiful, precise, effective and just right and I enjoyed every second reading the book. Must read.
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