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Pride & Prejudice and Plain Speaking: Pride and Prejudice Variations
What a mess Mr. Darcy has made
Some plain speaking is in order
Fitzwilliam Darcy came between the courtship of Bingley and Jane Bennet. He had his reasons, but could he have been mistaken? Elizabeth Bennet is furious at his interference, and she makes no secret of this fact.
Mr. Darcy fled Hertfordshire to escape his growing attraction to Elizabeth. When he finally accepts the inevitable, that he is in love with the lady, he is horrified to find out that Elizabeth’s opinion of him could hardly be worse. Determined to make amends, Darcy has a plan of action.
Darcy, Elizabeth, Bingley, Jane Bennet, Lady Catherine, Caroline Bingley, Anne de Bourgh, Richard Fitzwilliam and others find themselves caught up in a series of events, which will bring joy for most, and for a few, there are unexpected results.
As a free bonus, this ebook includes Laraba's full novel ‘Longbourn Inheritance’!
New story is ~200 pages. Both are sweet and clean, low angst Pride and Prejudice variations where all of the Bennet sisters have happy endings, with a satisfying epilogue.
Some plain speaking is in order
Fitzwilliam Darcy came between the courtship of Bingley and Jane Bennet. He had his reasons, but could he have been mistaken? Elizabeth Bennet is furious at his interference, and she makes no secret of this fact.
Mr. Darcy fled Hertfordshire to escape his growing attraction to Elizabeth. When he finally accepts the inevitable, that he is in love with the lady, he is horrified to find out that Elizabeth’s opinion of him could hardly be worse. Determined to make amends, Darcy has a plan of action.
Darcy, Elizabeth, Bingley, Jane Bennet, Lady Catherine, Caroline Bingley, Anne de Bourgh, Richard Fitzwilliam and others find themselves caught up in a series of events, which will bring joy for most, and for a few, there are unexpected results.
As a free bonus, this ebook includes Laraba's full novel ‘Longbourn Inheritance’!
New story is ~200 pages. Both are sweet and clean, low angst Pride and Prejudice variations where all of the Bennet sisters have happy endings, with a satisfying epilogue.
179 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2025
210 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Laraba Kendig
40 books102 followersI am a scientist by training, but a writer at heart. I have always loved reading with a passion and turned my hand to fanfiction a few years ago. I write stories similar to the ones I enjoy reading. They are interesting but light, romantic but not steamy. I am a super fan of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, and have been having a wonderful time writing P&P variations, exploring how new circumstances affect the beloved characters. So far I have published two novel-length Pride and Prejudice variations plus one short story via Amazon. My books include ‘I am Jael’ and ‘The Blind Will See’.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
February 28, 2025
At 136 pages/32% this story ends and we then have Longbourn Inheritance: A Pride and Prejudice Variation which I have read separately and reviewed.
I have read many other stories by this author but this one did not seem up to the quality of those.
We have Elizabeth learning that Darcy is responsible for Bingley deserting Jane after his ball. And then the Colonel informs Darcy that he did not realize the woman Bingley left was Elizabeth's sister. So it is that Elizabeth soon confronts Darcy and he finds he has a lot of apologizing to do.
This story is not really much different from canon. Wickham is handled a little differently. And Caroline makes a move on Darcy! We have an epilogue in which we learn of the other Bennet sisters' futures.
I was a bit disappointed in this story. It had nothing really new and none of the angst I do so love.
I have read many other stories by this author but this one did not seem up to the quality of those.
We have Elizabeth learning that Darcy is responsible for Bingley deserting Jane after his ball. And then the Colonel informs Darcy that he did not realize the woman Bingley left was Elizabeth's sister. So it is that Elizabeth soon confronts Darcy and he finds he has a lot of apologizing to do.
This story is not really much different from canon. Wickham is handled a little differently. And Caroline makes a move on Darcy! We have an epilogue in which we learn of the other Bennet sisters' futures.
I was a bit disappointed in this story. It had nothing really new and none of the angst I do so love.
February 18, 2025
This is a short story where the characters speak directly and openly with each other. At times, it seemed a little too direct, and
I’ve already purchased and read the second story, so this review is only for the novella “P&P and Plain Speaking.” I’m not sure what the marketing strategy is that has her including older novels to pad out novellas, but I’m not buying Longbourn Inheritance a second time. Read through KU.
I’ve already purchased and read the second story, so this review is only for the novella “P&P and Plain Speaking.” I’m not sure what the marketing strategy is that has her including older novels to pad out novellas, but I’m not buying Longbourn Inheritance a second time. Read through KU.
February 10, 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 book has two stories, one old and one new. Both are sweet and clean, low angst stories where all of the Bennet sisters have happy endings, with a satisfying epilogue.
Plain Speaking (New)
What a mess Mr. Darcy has made. Some plain speaking is in order. Fitzwilliam Darcy came between the courtship of Bingley and Jane Bennet. He had his reasons, but could he have been mistaken? Elizabeth Bennet is furious at his interference, and she makes no secret of this fact. Mr. Darcy fled Hertfordshire to escape his growing attraction to Elizabeth. When he finally accepts the inevitable, that he is in love with the lady, he is horrified to find out that Elizabeth’s opinion of him could hardly be worse. Determined to make amends, Darcy has a plan of action.
Darcy, Elizabeth, Bingley, Jane Bennet, Lady Catherine, Caroline Bingley, Anne de Bourgh, Richard Fitzwilliam and others find themselves caught up in a series of events, which will bring joy for most, and for a few, there are unexpected results.
Longbourn Inheritance (Old)
Elizabeth Bennet must oversee Longbourn after a family tragedy. Mr. Darcy is intrigued, Mr. Collins is baffled and Mr. Wickham is enticed.
After the tragic death of her brother, the long-awaited Bennet son, Elizabeth Bennet must oversee her family’s estate, as her father has fallen into depression and drink. Even as she contends with her own sorrow, she struggles to balance her desire for a happy future with the needs of her family.
Mr. Darcy visits his best friend, Mr. Bingley, who has leased the local estate of Netherfield. While on the road with his trusty dog, Maxwell, Mr. Darcy suffers a minor accident and is in need of assistance. As he eagerly awaits help, it is Miss Elizabeth who happens upon him.
Mr. Collins, Mr. Wickham and Lady Catherine each have their own reasons to oppose our dear couple’s match, but their varied plans and actions only serve to bring Darcy and Elizabeth together.
So with all that and more these two stories pull you in and hold 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 book has two stories, one old and one new. Both are sweet and clean, low angst stories where all of the Bennet sisters have happy endings, with a satisfying epilogue.
Plain Speaking (New)
What a mess Mr. Darcy has made. Some plain speaking is in order. Fitzwilliam Darcy came between the courtship of Bingley and Jane Bennet. He had his reasons, but could he have been mistaken? Elizabeth Bennet is furious at his interference, and she makes no secret of this fact. Mr. Darcy fled Hertfordshire to escape his growing attraction to Elizabeth. When he finally accepts the inevitable, that he is in love with the lady, he is horrified to find out that Elizabeth’s opinion of him could hardly be worse. Determined to make amends, Darcy has a plan of action.
Darcy, Elizabeth, Bingley, Jane Bennet, Lady Catherine, Caroline Bingley, Anne de Bourgh, Richard Fitzwilliam and others find themselves caught up in a series of events, which will bring joy for most, and for a few, there are unexpected results.
Longbourn Inheritance (Old)
Elizabeth Bennet must oversee Longbourn after a family tragedy. Mr. Darcy is intrigued, Mr. Collins is baffled and Mr. Wickham is enticed.
After the tragic death of her brother, the long-awaited Bennet son, Elizabeth Bennet must oversee her family’s estate, as her father has fallen into depression and drink. Even as she contends with her own sorrow, she struggles to balance her desire for a happy future with the needs of her family.
Mr. Darcy visits his best friend, Mr. Bingley, who has leased the local estate of Netherfield. While on the road with his trusty dog, Maxwell, Mr. Darcy suffers a minor accident and is in need of assistance. As he eagerly awaits help, it is Miss Elizabeth who happens upon him.
Mr. Collins, Mr. Wickham and Lady Catherine each have their own reasons to oppose our dear couple’s match, but their varied plans and actions only serve to bring Darcy and Elizabeth together.
So with all that and more these two stories pull you in and hold you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
March 1, 2025
3.5 - Plain Speaking
4 - Longbourn Inheritance
4 - Longbourn Inheritance
February 26, 2025
Disappointing
I’ve read most of Laraba Kendig’s work and enjoyed much of it. That’s why this one was so surprising- it felt sloppy and unfinished. The story definitely wasn’t up to her usual quality and felt a little generic. There’s a lot of JAFF out there and it felt like I’d read this exact story (but better) before. The romance was definitely lacking and we didn’t get to see much of Darcy or Elizabeth’s personality. The end of the book took a random diversion into a full chapter of letters. That felt kind of lazy like she wanted to convey information without fully writing out the scenes. Then the story ended abruptly and the epilogue jumped around quite a bit. I was really disappointed with this one. I don’t recommend it.
I’ve read most of Laraba Kendig’s work and enjoyed much of it. That’s why this one was so surprising- it felt sloppy and unfinished. The story definitely wasn’t up to her usual quality and felt a little generic. There’s a lot of JAFF out there and it felt like I’d read this exact story (but better) before. The romance was definitely lacking and we didn’t get to see much of Darcy or Elizabeth’s personality. The end of the book took a random diversion into a full chapter of letters. That felt kind of lazy like she wanted to convey information without fully writing out the scenes. Then the story ended abruptly and the epilogue jumped around quite a bit. I was really disappointed with this one. I don’t recommend it.
February 8, 2025
Delightful, as always!
Ms. Kendig is a consummate story-teller. Another great addition to her growing collection of alternate versions of Pride and Prejudice.
Ms. Kendig is a consummate story-teller. Another great addition to her growing collection of alternate versions of Pride and Prejudice.
March 8, 2025
Vanilla
The story begins when Elizabeth is visiting Charlotte Collins at Hunsford Parsonage, and Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam are visiting Rosings. As per usual Elizabeth has no very good opinion of Darcy, while Darcy has been fighting his strong attraction to Elizabeth. But when Colonel Fitzwilliam unwittingly reveals that it was Darcy that separated Jane and Bingley, Elizabeth makes it clear that she despises Darcy, the colonel tells him, and Darcy confronts Elizabeth with an apology and an explanation. Elizabeth is stunned to learn that Darcy's in love with her, and she agrees to a period of courtship to get to know him better.
This kind of variation is satisfying because, as the title indicates, the main characters are going to be more forthright than usual for a Regency era tale, and will do a lot of "plain speaking." However, things just roll along predictably, and there's not really anything new or different. It's kind of a short story, so there's not much time for any drama or surprises. The romance is nice, although I'm always frustrated when Jane Bennett accepts Bingley back (after his abandonment and long absence) without any fuss.
The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it for a pleasant and predictable tale from a talented author.
The story begins when Elizabeth is visiting Charlotte Collins at Hunsford Parsonage, and Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam are visiting Rosings. As per usual Elizabeth has no very good opinion of Darcy, while Darcy has been fighting his strong attraction to Elizabeth. But when Colonel Fitzwilliam unwittingly reveals that it was Darcy that separated Jane and Bingley, Elizabeth makes it clear that she despises Darcy, the colonel tells him, and Darcy confronts Elizabeth with an apology and an explanation. Elizabeth is stunned to learn that Darcy's in love with her, and she agrees to a period of courtship to get to know him better.
This kind of variation is satisfying because, as the title indicates, the main characters are going to be more forthright than usual for a Regency era tale, and will do a lot of "plain speaking." However, things just roll along predictably, and there's not really anything new or different. It's kind of a short story, so there's not much time for any drama or surprises. The romance is nice, although I'm always frustrated when Jane Bennett accepts Bingley back (after his abandonment and long absence) without any fuss.
The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it for a pleasant and predictable tale from a talented author.
February 9, 2025
I have already reviewed "Longbourn inheritance" (the second title in this package edition) as shallow. "Pride and Prejudice and Plain Speaking" didn't keep my interest until the end but I enjoyed a couple of set downs. This variation is good enough for a cozy afternoon but don't expect too much. The quick removal of all obstacles to Elizabeth and Darcy's love makes this read rather dull.
March 18, 2025
Totally clear!
A lovely variation where our dear boy catches up, before putting his foot into his mouth, that he has to right his course.
It also has another engaging story in which a furry friend is our beloved couple's hero.
A lovely variation where our dear boy catches up, before putting his foot into his mouth, that he has to right his course.
It also has another engaging story in which a furry friend is our beloved couple's hero.
February 6, 2025
Short and sweet
A very short and sweet novella inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Laraba Kendig. I did enjoy it but it’s only 30% of the book. The other 70% is “Longbourn Inheritance” which I already read and own.
A very short and sweet novella inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice by Laraba Kendig. I did enjoy it but it’s only 30% of the book. The other 70% is “Longbourn Inheritance” which I already read and own.
March 23, 2025
This is actually two books together: Pride & Prejudice and Plain Speaking is the first 137 pages, with a bonus of Longbourn Inheritance taking the remaining 276 pages. They were both very good, definitely 5*.
Pride & Prejudice and Plain Speaking was very enjoyable, as plain speaking definitely made the story much more interesting. The growth of the characters was lovely to see and the descriptions are lovely. Mr. Wickham and Lady Catherine are handily dispatched, Miss Bingley sent to Yorkshire after proving that she is no lady.
Longbourn Inheritance was also enjoyable. There was a lot more to this story, where there had been a Bennet son, twin to Lydia, who had never been healthy and passed away a few months before the story begins. Mr. Bennet becomes somewhat of a drunkard, drowning his grief in alcohol, leaving Elizabeth to take care of the estate, and the other girls to manage Mrs. Bennet's hysteria. Enter the Netherfield party. Mr. Darcy spews his infamous insult, but about Kitty, who weeps. Not an auspicious beginning in Hertfordshire, sir!
Mr. Bingley's dog Maxwell steals the show in many places. Mr. Collins is even more of an idiot than usual and gets himself killed by riding a horse too spirited for him. Now the inheritance of Longbourn is in doubt, but all think it will be Jane, so the officers and others suddenly swarm around her, perplexing Mr. Bingley. What will he do? Mr. Wickham shows himself to be a horrible cad, but is satisfactorily dealt with by Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam. Lady Catherine makes a right fool of herself by believing a poison pen letter sent from Mr. Wickham, and causing some mayhem in Meryton and Longbourn.
Much else happens in both books, and I highly recommend them!
Pride & Prejudice and Plain Speaking was very enjoyable, as plain speaking definitely made the story much more interesting. The growth of the characters was lovely to see and the descriptions are lovely. Mr. Wickham and Lady Catherine are handily dispatched, Miss Bingley sent to Yorkshire after proving that she is no lady.
Longbourn Inheritance was also enjoyable. There was a lot more to this story, where there had been a Bennet son, twin to Lydia, who had never been healthy and passed away a few months before the story begins. Mr. Bennet becomes somewhat of a drunkard, drowning his grief in alcohol, leaving Elizabeth to take care of the estate, and the other girls to manage Mrs. Bennet's hysteria. Enter the Netherfield party. Mr. Darcy spews his infamous insult, but about Kitty, who weeps. Not an auspicious beginning in Hertfordshire, sir!
Mr. Bingley's dog Maxwell steals the show in many places. Mr. Collins is even more of an idiot than usual and gets himself killed by riding a horse too spirited for him. Now the inheritance of Longbourn is in doubt, but all think it will be Jane, so the officers and others suddenly swarm around her, perplexing Mr. Bingley. What will he do? Mr. Wickham shows himself to be a horrible cad, but is satisfactorily dealt with by Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam. Lady Catherine makes a right fool of herself by believing a poison pen letter sent from Mr. Wickham, and causing some mayhem in Meryton and Longbourn.
Much else happens in both books, and I highly recommend them!
February 6, 2025
This is a no-angst story in which Elizabeth expresses her annoyance when Colonel Fitzwilliam spills the tea about Darcy, Bingley and Jane, therefore allowing Darcy to see her feelings before a Disastrous Hunsford Proposal. He gives Bingley a nudge and his happiness gives Darcy a chance to come back and try to change Elizabeth's mind. After they're engaged there's still quite a bit of epilogue about what all happened to everyone.
I enjoyed Pride, Prejudice and Plain Speaking but if you already have other books by this author you should know that it ends at 32 % and the bulk of this story is Longbourn Inheritance which has been previously published. (I have not read it yet so I'll be glad to.)
I enjoyed Pride, Prejudice and Plain Speaking but if you already have other books by this author you should know that it ends at 32 % and the bulk of this story is Longbourn Inheritance which has been previously published. (I have not read it yet so I'll be glad to.)
February 9, 2025
Yes!
It was a pleasure to have healthy “plain speaking” communication between Our Dear Couple instead of more misunderstandings, assumptions, and sheer pigheadedness. Low in angst and high in interesting resolutions, this tale offers improved and improving characters especially among the Bennet sisters. Adding Longbourn Inheritance extended my reading pleasure. I enjoyed it both as a previously read stand-alone and as an addition to Plain Speaking. When the Bennet parents renege on their responsibilities even more so than usual after a loss, the daughters make up the slack under Elizabeth’s example.
It was a pleasure to have healthy “plain speaking” communication between Our Dear Couple instead of more misunderstandings, assumptions, and sheer pigheadedness. Low in angst and high in interesting resolutions, this tale offers improved and improving characters especially among the Bennet sisters. Adding Longbourn Inheritance extended my reading pleasure. I enjoyed it both as a previously read stand-alone and as an addition to Plain Speaking. When the Bennet parents renege on their responsibilities even more so than usual after a loss, the daughters make up the slack under Elizabeth’s example.
February 11, 2025
This was a fine story with minimal drama. I enjoy a good P&P variation where the characters are all allowed to just speak their minds and hearts. No misunderstandings because they ask and answer directly to the questions posed by other characters. No angsty wondering about what someone is thinking or feeling, just direct statements about what’s on their mind. Truly refreshing.
Laraba Kendig is a fine writer so the story is enjoyable. It’s just easy reading, with a bonus novel tucked onto the end.
Laraba Kendig is a fine writer so the story is enjoyable. It’s just easy reading, with a bonus novel tucked onto the end.
February 18, 2025
Not Perfect, But Very Enjoyable
I absolutely loved the novella P&P&Plain Speaking! How many problems can be dealt with quickly and succinctly by some frank conversation, even when said in anger. Such was the case here when Elizabeth found out about Darcy's interference with the courtship of Bingley and Jane. That initial blowup lead to several other plainly spoken conversations and quick resolutions.
The Longbourn Inheritance is interesting. Much of it is sad, but here again, the resolution is satisfying.
I absolutely loved the novella P&P&Plain Speaking! How many problems can be dealt with quickly and succinctly by some frank conversation, even when said in anger. Such was the case here when Elizabeth found out about Darcy's interference with the courtship of Bingley and Jane. That initial blowup lead to several other plainly spoken conversations and quick resolutions.
The Longbourn Inheritance is interesting. Much of it is sad, but here again, the resolution is satisfying.
June 11, 2025
okay variation of Pride and Prejudice
There are two stories in this book. The second one seemed a bit rushed through to get to the end. Elizabeth, Jane and Anne de Bourgh marry on the same day. George Wickham. The ever present villain is sent to Canada to fight the enemy. All live happily ever after. Oh, also, the endtail ends with Mr. Collin’s fall from a horse he was warned not to ride. I would have liked it better if it was one story, more in depth.
There are two stories in this book. The second one seemed a bit rushed through to get to the end. Elizabeth, Jane and Anne de Bourgh marry on the same day. George Wickham. The ever present villain is sent to Canada to fight the enemy. All live happily ever after. Oh, also, the endtail ends with Mr. Collin’s fall from a horse he was warned not to ride. I would have liked it better if it was one story, more in depth.
March 4, 2025
i loved this author's previous works but this book which is a novella with a previous book Longbourne inheritance added along here is not up to the mark
Its very linear and nothing much happens here which will make u interested or invested in book.an okiesh book
Though i enjoyed reading the longbourne Inheritance again. that is what i am talking about
Its very linear and nothing much happens here which will make u interested or invested in book.an okiesh book
Though i enjoyed reading the longbourne Inheritance again. that is what i am talking about
March 12, 2025
What A Wonderful Journey
Both novels took me to places I hadn't been before with this beloved cast of characters Jane brought to us. I so enjoyed reading further adventures of Pride and Prejudice themes. Laguna Lending is a delightful storyteller. Have so enjoyed her take on characters.
Both novels took me to places I hadn't been before with this beloved cast of characters Jane brought to us. I so enjoyed reading further adventures of Pride and Prejudice themes. Laguna Lending is a delightful storyteller. Have so enjoyed her take on characters.
pride-prejudice-variations
June 19, 2025Thank you, Jane Austen
There are two stories here and both are wonderful. The second one, Longbourn Inheritance, is a complex and fulfilling story.
I really enjoy these Pride and Prejudice variations and have read many of them. There is no question that I will be reading many more.
I have given my great-granddaughter Pride and Prejudice, and she wss thrilled.
18
There are two stories here and both are wonderful. The second one, Longbourn Inheritance, is a complex and fulfilling story.
I really enjoy these Pride and Prejudice variations and have read many of them. There is no question that I will be reading many more.
I have given my great-granddaughter Pride and Prejudice, and she wss thrilled.
18
February 9, 2025
This was a great variation where issues were addressed head on. It was nice to see characters actually come out and say what they thought/felt instead of quietly withdrawing until another chance encounter to “try again”. Loved it!
February 12, 2025
Wonderful set
I truly enjoyed bc being able to read right through these connected stories.
Wickham hopefully got eaten by a bear! Caroline Huntley is such a heifer!
Glad to see everyone so happy!
I truly enjoyed bc being able to read right through these connected stories.
Wickham hopefully got eaten by a bear! Caroline Huntley is such a heifer!
Glad to see everyone so happy!
February 26, 2025
What an enjoyable take on the original text! It’s not that I don’t enjoy a good PRIDE AND PREJUDICE variation with Elizabeth fighting zombies or time-traveling to the 21st century. There are times when the more traditional variation is what my Janeite soul craves.
This book was traditional with regard to setting and the basic storyline; however, I was so pleased to see that the individual characters are depicted in a more fleshed out, more open way. Instead of smolderingly brooding in the corner, for example, Darcy was more amenable to socializing with others. The reader could watch the Darcy and Elizabeth romance unfold in a more personal way.
Thank you to the author and publisher for providing me with a copy of this book.
This book was traditional with regard to setting and the basic storyline; however, I was so pleased to see that the individual characters are depicted in a more fleshed out, more open way. Instead of smolderingly brooding in the corner, for example, Darcy was more amenable to socializing with others. The reader could watch the Darcy and Elizabeth romance unfold in a more personal way.
Thank you to the author and publisher for providing me with a copy of this book.
February 9, 2025
Cute short version with some added after story.
February 12, 2025
Enjoyable
February 28, 2025
Nice read
May 22, 2025
Read this book
Read this book. It is very well written and such a soothing, satisfying ending which of course all romance novels should be, if they can.
Read this book. It is very well written and such a soothing, satisfying ending which of course all romance novels should be, if they can.
February 18, 2025
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews