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A Matter of Chance
Single-mother and artist Lizzy Gardiner relied on her sister, Jane, and her brother-in-law, Charles Bingley, when she fled her husband two years ago. However, when they introduce her to Charles’ friend, William Darcy, who has just returned from England, he doesn’t make the best first or even second impression. Can the two of them leave not only their initial prejudices, but also their pasts behind and find love with each other or will the ghosts of the past return to keep them apart?Also contains a vignette to A Matter of Chance.Contains scenes with adult content and a bit of adult language.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
405 pages, Paperback
First published November 17, 2013
63 people are currently reading
160 people want to read
About the author
L.L. Diamond
36 books183 followersAmazon best selling author L. L. Diamond is more commonly known as Leslie to her friends, and Mom to her three kids. A native of Louisiana, she has spent the majority of her life living within an hour of New Orleans until she followed her husband to the ends of the earth as a military wife. Louisiana, Mississippi, California, Texas, New Mexico, Nebraska, England, Missouri, and now Maryland have all been called home along the way.
Aside from mother and writer, Leslie considers herself a perpetual student. She has degrees in biology and studio art, but will devour any subject of interest simply for the knowledge. As an artist, her concentration is in graphic design, but watercolor is her medium of choice with one of her watercolors featured on the cover of her second book, A Matter of Chance. She is a member of the Jane Austen Society of North America. She also plays flute and piano, but much like Elizabeth Bennet, she is always in need of practice!
Aside from mother and writer, Leslie considers herself a perpetual student. She has degrees in biology and studio art, but will devour any subject of interest simply for the knowledge. As an artist, her concentration is in graphic design, but watercolor is her medium of choice with one of her watercolors featured on the cover of her second book, A Matter of Chance. She is a member of the Jane Austen Society of North America. She also plays flute and piano, but much like Elizabeth Bennet, she is always in need of practice!
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September 13, 2020
I received a copy of the paperback from a blog giveaway.
4.5 stars: Some SPOILERS herein.
This is a modern take-off of Pride and Prejudice. The names of the characters and some places are the same and the main actors’ behaviors resemble canon. BUT set in a modern world the story's premise is not the usual vague copy of the premise in Jane Austen's masterpiece. This author makes the story all her own.
In this tale Elizabeth Gardiner nee: Bennet had been prodded to "seek" both her parents' approval continually during her years in a family of five girls. Failing in the first instance by not becoming a doctor or lawyer such as Jane has, and hoping in the second to do so by marrying Greg Wickham, the son of Mr. Bennet's good friend, Elizabeth soon realizes that approval is not forthcoming. Her marriage is not one of love. Subsequently things go downhill in that relationship very quickly. The first pages tell of two main events: her marriage and how it ended. The latter was hard to read about so be warned that physical abuse is at hand and it is almost to the point of death for not only one but two of this book's characters.
Charles and Jane Bingley play main roles in this book as they not only are the saviors but have been, and continue to be, Lizzy’s lifeline: the rock she comes to when needing stability and support much less love and approval. She does also have her good friend, Charlotte Lucas. The angst in this book is not only caused by what happens when William Darcy comes into the picture but is also due to Lizzy’s isolation from her biological family and her ex. Jane and Charles have taken Lizzy in for a few years as Lizzy reorders her life. When a child is born they are there for her and even when Elizabeth moves out they have regular contact.
Darcy, CEO of a multi-million dollar conglomerate, has no family. He had lived in the Meryton area and then fled to England to escape memories of when his father and his sister died in a car accident. The other driver left the scene and was never apprehended. DNA taken from a blood sample in the stolen car has not turned up the ID of that driver as he is not in “the system”. Darcy comes back into town and is staying in a guest house on Netherfield grounds while he looks for his own place to stay.
Yes, Mr. Darcy is quick to judge Lizzy when he learns she has a child but sees no father in the picture. Lizzy has inherited Longbourn (another bone of contention with her spendthrift mother) from her Aunt Mel. She rents out the barn for weddings and other large celebrations. We learn much about how Elizabeth manages to support herself and ‘Melly Belly’ as an artist (focusing mainly on watercolors), as a professor of art in a local college, renting out the barn on her property and we learn of the few people she trusts. One of the players in this story is a dog, Bear, who is fiercely protective, especially when new men come around.
Reflective of canon is the insult given as to Lizzy’s being an “unwed” mother and her reaction as she hears. Of course she has her chance and gives back as good as the original Elizabeth. But now William comes to realize (as in P&P) that he not only loves her but also that now he must work twice as hard to win her love due to his unguarded words and her personal history. I loved reading of all William’s efforts and how he takes to a two-year-old little girl with the sweetest of fatherly instincts. This story had a rough start but had me turning pages as I found the love story to be enthralling. There are scenes for mature adults only.
Plus, we have an epilogue: something I always enjoy.
4.5 stars: Some SPOILERS herein.
This is a modern take-off of Pride and Prejudice. The names of the characters and some places are the same and the main actors’ behaviors resemble canon. BUT set in a modern world the story's premise is not the usual vague copy of the premise in Jane Austen's masterpiece. This author makes the story all her own.
In this tale Elizabeth Gardiner nee: Bennet had been prodded to "seek" both her parents' approval continually during her years in a family of five girls. Failing in the first instance by not becoming a doctor or lawyer such as Jane has, and hoping in the second to do so by marrying Greg Wickham, the son of Mr. Bennet's good friend, Elizabeth soon realizes that approval is not forthcoming. Her marriage is not one of love. Subsequently things go downhill in that relationship very quickly. The first pages tell of two main events: her marriage and how it ended. The latter was hard to read about so be warned that physical abuse is at hand and it is almost to the point of death for not only one but two of this book's characters.
Charles and Jane Bingley play main roles in this book as they not only are the saviors but have been, and continue to be, Lizzy’s lifeline: the rock she comes to when needing stability and support much less love and approval. She does also have her good friend, Charlotte Lucas. The angst in this book is not only caused by what happens when William Darcy comes into the picture but is also due to Lizzy’s isolation from her biological family and her ex. Jane and Charles have taken Lizzy in for a few years as Lizzy reorders her life. When a child is born they are there for her and even when Elizabeth moves out they have regular contact.
Darcy, CEO of a multi-million dollar conglomerate, has no family. He had lived in the Meryton area and then fled to England to escape memories of when his father and his sister died in a car accident. The other driver left the scene and was never apprehended. DNA taken from a blood sample in the stolen car has not turned up the ID of that driver as he is not in “the system”. Darcy comes back into town and is staying in a guest house on Netherfield grounds while he looks for his own place to stay.
Yes, Mr. Darcy is quick to judge Lizzy when he learns she has a child but sees no father in the picture. Lizzy has inherited Longbourn (another bone of contention with her spendthrift mother) from her Aunt Mel. She rents out the barn for weddings and other large celebrations. We learn much about how Elizabeth manages to support herself and ‘Melly Belly’ as an artist (focusing mainly on watercolors), as a professor of art in a local college, renting out the barn on her property and we learn of the few people she trusts. One of the players in this story is a dog, Bear, who is fiercely protective, especially when new men come around.
Reflective of canon is the insult given as to Lizzy’s being an “unwed” mother and her reaction as she hears. Of course she has her chance and gives back as good as the original Elizabeth. But now William comes to realize (as in P&P) that he not only loves her but also that now he must work twice as hard to win her love due to his unguarded words and her personal history. I loved reading of all William’s efforts and how he takes to a two-year-old little girl with the sweetest of fatherly instincts. This story had a rough start but had me turning pages as I found the love story to be enthralling. There are scenes for mature adults only.
Plus, we have an epilogue: something I always enjoy.
June 1, 2014
For years Lizzy Bennet was the daughter of two harsh and disapproving parents, but at the age of twenty-one she opted to become Lizzy Wickham and settle for a loveless marriage to earn her parents approval and support. After nearly six years of misery, abuse, and abandonment, Lizzy, in order to protect herself and unborn child from further mistreatment and harm, left her husband, Greg Wickham. Now she goes by Lizzy Gardiner (a name she chose to honor her beloved great aunt) and has divorced her husband, severed ties with her parents, and is happy in her roles as single-mother, part-time artist, college professor, and devoted sister.
When William Darcy, a successful, handsome, and wealthy CEO, meets Lizzy, he is instantly attracted to her. But he purposely avoids Lizzy because he prejudges her to be a un-wed mother that his family would not accept. (Sounds like an out-dated, arrogant snob, right?) I thought so too at first, but I can understand that even though we are in the 21st century some people still may have prejudices against single parents or hang-ups about someone having a child from a previous relationship. When Darcy finally realizes it is futile to resist his attraction and tries to ask Lizzy out, guess what happens… (She gives it to him good! Hunsford-style!) But instead of nursing his broken-heart and battered-ego elsewhere, William sticks around and tries again.
As with many modern-day adaptations of Pride and Prejudice, there are some considerable changes made to various characters and the course of events. (i.e. Lizzy marrying Wickham, Charles and Jane already married, Lizzy’s adorable two-year old daughter named Melanie). I love seeing these diverse and inventive interpretations of Pride and Prejudice, it would be boring if all the characters and sequence of events were the same. This modern-adaptation reminded me a little of Perfect Fit by Linda Wells and The Man Who Loved Pride and Prejudice (Pemberley by the Sea) in that Lizzy was such a fiercely independent character who experienced some adversity or abuse in her past. While it was heartrending to hear of Lizzy’s horrible marriage and unsupportive family, I was glad the author gave her such realistic obstacles to face.
What I loved most about this story was the admirable, strong characters and their sweet relationships with each other. I loved witnessing the relationships between Jane, Charles, and Lizzy. (Yay for Charles being more assertive!). And I, of course, loved seeing how Darcy was so supportive and protective of Lizzy and Melanie. When Darcy starts having a exchanges with Melanie it melted my heart. (I quite agree with what is said in the book, there is something very sexy about a man taking care of or holding a child!) *swoon*
In addition, another aspect of this novel I enjoyed was the beautiful visuals and detailed descriptions. I loved learning about Lizzy’s historical home, watercolor paintings, crafts at the artisan fair, and experiences teaching art at the local university. Meryton sounds like a beautiful place to live or visit and I’d just love to see some of Lizzy’s work! (Similar to Lizzy, L. L. Diamond, is also an artist, and I just love the fact that she did painted the watercolors that appear on her front and back cover! Aren’t they gorgeous?)
What I wasn’t too fond of with this story was how quickly Lizzy changed her mind about Darcy and how easy and conflict-free their relationship became. The very next time Lizzy sees Darcy after proclaiming him “the last man on earth” she’d want to go out with, they are cordial, flirty, and slow dance together. After experiencing such a traumatic and emotionally abusive relationship I would have expected it to take a bit longer for Darcy to tear down the walls around Lizzy’s heart and earn her acceptance. In addition, once Darcy and Lizzy finally do become a couple, their life is idyllic and blissful. And while I loved seeing their sweet domestic scenes of happiness, I felt an absence of conflict. However, this may be a personal preference; I tend to like stories where there is conflict, tension, or obstacles between the principles characters rather than have their conflicts be from outside sources or ghosts of the past.
Despite my quibbles, I greatly enjoyed reading this charming and creative modern-day retelling with its loveable characters, beautiful backdrops, and captivating art. I recommend this novel for fans of modern-day retellings that are low-angst, sweet, and romantic.
Warning: Some tasteful and infrequent intimate scenes. Recommended for Mature Audiences.
When William Darcy, a successful, handsome, and wealthy CEO, meets Lizzy, he is instantly attracted to her. But he purposely avoids Lizzy because he prejudges her to be a un-wed mother that his family would not accept. (Sounds like an out-dated, arrogant snob, right?) I thought so too at first, but I can understand that even though we are in the 21st century some people still may have prejudices against single parents or hang-ups about someone having a child from a previous relationship. When Darcy finally realizes it is futile to resist his attraction and tries to ask Lizzy out, guess what happens… (She gives it to him good! Hunsford-style!) But instead of nursing his broken-heart and battered-ego elsewhere, William sticks around and tries again.
As with many modern-day adaptations of Pride and Prejudice, there are some considerable changes made to various characters and the course of events. (i.e. Lizzy marrying Wickham, Charles and Jane already married, Lizzy’s adorable two-year old daughter named Melanie). I love seeing these diverse and inventive interpretations of Pride and Prejudice, it would be boring if all the characters and sequence of events were the same. This modern-adaptation reminded me a little of Perfect Fit by Linda Wells and The Man Who Loved Pride and Prejudice (Pemberley by the Sea) in that Lizzy was such a fiercely independent character who experienced some adversity or abuse in her past. While it was heartrending to hear of Lizzy’s horrible marriage and unsupportive family, I was glad the author gave her such realistic obstacles to face.
What I loved most about this story was the admirable, strong characters and their sweet relationships with each other. I loved witnessing the relationships between Jane, Charles, and Lizzy. (Yay for Charles being more assertive!). And I, of course, loved seeing how Darcy was so supportive and protective of Lizzy and Melanie. When Darcy starts having a exchanges with Melanie it melted my heart. (I quite agree with what is said in the book, there is something very sexy about a man taking care of or holding a child!) *swoon*
In addition, another aspect of this novel I enjoyed was the beautiful visuals and detailed descriptions. I loved learning about Lizzy’s historical home, watercolor paintings, crafts at the artisan fair, and experiences teaching art at the local university. Meryton sounds like a beautiful place to live or visit and I’d just love to see some of Lizzy’s work! (Similar to Lizzy, L. L. Diamond, is also an artist, and I just love the fact that she did painted the watercolors that appear on her front and back cover! Aren’t they gorgeous?)
What I wasn’t too fond of with this story was how quickly Lizzy changed her mind about Darcy and how easy and conflict-free their relationship became. The very next time Lizzy sees Darcy after proclaiming him “the last man on earth” she’d want to go out with, they are cordial, flirty, and slow dance together. After experiencing such a traumatic and emotionally abusive relationship I would have expected it to take a bit longer for Darcy to tear down the walls around Lizzy’s heart and earn her acceptance. In addition, once Darcy and Lizzy finally do become a couple, their life is idyllic and blissful. And while I loved seeing their sweet domestic scenes of happiness, I felt an absence of conflict. However, this may be a personal preference; I tend to like stories where there is conflict, tension, or obstacles between the principles characters rather than have their conflicts be from outside sources or ghosts of the past.
Despite my quibbles, I greatly enjoyed reading this charming and creative modern-day retelling with its loveable characters, beautiful backdrops, and captivating art. I recommend this novel for fans of modern-day retellings that are low-angst, sweet, and romantic.
Warning: Some tasteful and infrequent intimate scenes. Recommended for Mature Audiences.
September 13, 2020
4.5 stars: Some SPOILERS herein.
This is a modern take-off of Pride and Prejudice. The names of the characters and some places are the same and the main actors’ behaviors resemble canon. BUT set in a modern world the story's premise is not the usual vague copy of the premise in Jane Austen's masterpiece. This author makes the story all her own.
In this tale Elizabeth Gardiner nee: Bennet had been prodded to "seek" both her parents' approval continually during her years in a family of five girls. Failing in the first instance by not becoming a doctor or lawyer such as Jane has, and hoping in the second to do so by marrying Greg Wickham, the son of Mr. Bennet's good friend, Elizabeth soon realizes that approval is not forthcoming. Her marriage is not one of love. Subsequently things go downhill in that relationship very quickly. The first pages tell of two main events: her marriage and how it ended. The latter was hard to read about so be warned that physical abuse is at hand and it is almost to the point of death for not only one but two of this book's characters.
Charles and Jane Bingley play main roles in this book as they not only are the saviors but have been, and continue to be, Lizzy’s lifeline: the rock she comes to when needing stability and support much less love and approval. She does also have her good friend, Charlotte Lucas. The angst in this book is not only caused by what happens when William Darcy comes into the picture but is also due to Lizzy’s isolation from her biological family and her ex. Jane and Charles have taken Lizzy in for a few years as Lizzy reorders her life. When a child is born they are there for her and even when Elizabeth moves out they have regular contact.
Darcy, CEO of a multi-million dollar conglomerate, has no family. He had lived in the Meryton area and then fled to England to escape memories of when his father and his sister died in a car accident. The other driver left the scene and was never apprehended. DNA taken from a blood sample in the stolen car has not turned up the ID of that driver as he is not in “the system”. Darcy comes back into town and is staying in a guest house on Netherfield grounds while he looks for his own place to stay.
Yes, Mr. Darcy is quick to judge Lizzy when he learns she has a child but sees no father in the picture. Lizzy has inherited Longbourn (another bone of contention with her spendthrift mother) from her Aunt Mel. She rents out the barn for weddings and other large celebrations. We learn much about how Elizabeth manages to support herself and ‘Melly Belly’ as an artist (focusing mainly on watercolors), as a professor of art in a local college, renting out the barn on her property and we learn of the few people she trusts. One of the players in this story is a dog, Bear, who is fiercely protective, especially when new men come around.
Reflective of canon is the insult given as to Lizzy’s being an “unwed” mother and her reaction as she hears. Of course she has her chance and gives back as good as the original Elizabeth. But now William comes to realize (as in P&P) that he not only loves her but also that now he must work twice as hard to win her love due to his unguarded words and her personal history. I loved reading of all William’s efforts and how he takes to a two-year-old little girl with the sweetest of fatherly instincts. This story had a rough start but had me turning pages as I found the love story to be enthralling. There are scenes for mature adults only.
Plus, we have an epilogue: something I always enjoy.
This is a modern take-off of Pride and Prejudice. The names of the characters and some places are the same and the main actors’ behaviors resemble canon. BUT set in a modern world the story's premise is not the usual vague copy of the premise in Jane Austen's masterpiece. This author makes the story all her own.
In this tale Elizabeth Gardiner nee: Bennet had been prodded to "seek" both her parents' approval continually during her years in a family of five girls. Failing in the first instance by not becoming a doctor or lawyer such as Jane has, and hoping in the second to do so by marrying Greg Wickham, the son of Mr. Bennet's good friend, Elizabeth soon realizes that approval is not forthcoming. Her marriage is not one of love. Subsequently things go downhill in that relationship very quickly. The first pages tell of two main events: her marriage and how it ended. The latter was hard to read about so be warned that physical abuse is at hand and it is almost to the point of death for not only one but two of this book's characters.
Charles and Jane Bingley play main roles in this book as they not only are the saviors but have been, and continue to be, Lizzy’s lifeline: the rock she comes to when needing stability and support much less love and approval. She does also have her good friend, Charlotte Lucas. The angst in this book is not only caused by what happens when William Darcy comes into the picture but is also due to Lizzy’s isolation from her biological family and her ex. Jane and Charles have taken Lizzy in for a few years as Lizzy reorders her life. When a child is born they are there for her and even when Elizabeth moves out they have regular contact.
Darcy, CEO of a multi-million dollar conglomerate, has no family. He had lived in the Meryton area and then fled to England to escape memories of when his father and his sister died in a car accident. The other driver left the scene and was never apprehended. DNA taken from a blood sample in the stolen car has not turned up the ID of that driver as he is not in “the system”. Darcy comes back into town and is staying in a guest house on Netherfield grounds while he looks for his own place to stay.
Yes, Mr. Darcy is quick to judge Lizzy when he learns she has a child but sees no father in the picture. Lizzy has inherited Longbourn (another bone of contention with her spendthrift mother) from her Aunt Mel. She rents out the barn for weddings and other large celebrations. We learn much about how Elizabeth manages to support herself and ‘Melly Belly’ as an artist (focusing mainly on watercolors), as a professor of art in a local college, renting out the barn on her property and we learn of the few people she trusts. One of the players in this story is a dog, Bear, who is fiercely protective, especially when new men come around.
Reflective of canon is the insult given as to Lizzy’s being an “unwed” mother and her reaction as she hears. Of course she has her chance and gives back as good as the original Elizabeth. But now William comes to realize (as in P&P) that he not only loves her but also that now he must work twice as hard to win her love due to his unguarded words and her personal history. I loved reading of all William’s efforts and how he takes to a two-year-old little girl with the sweetest of fatherly instincts. This story had a rough start but had me turning pages as I found the love story to be enthralling. There are scenes for mature adults only.
Plus, we have an epilogue: something I always enjoy.
September 3, 2016
This is a modern Pride and Prejudice variation. Which leads to the question ... what makes a story a P & P variation.
I will start by saying that this is an enjoyable and satisfying read. And it probably would have been just as good if the characters had different names and addresses.
The book begins as 21 year old Lizzy Bennet is preparing to marry Greg Wickham to make her parents happy. It is not a good marriage but her parents will not hear anything against the groom. He beats her brutally and she flees to the home of her sister Jane and brother in law Charles.
2 1/2 years later Charles' friend William (multinational conglomerate head) comes to visit. He makes assumptions about Lizzy Gardiner and is rude. The author shoehorns in the not handsome enough to tempt me regarding art work and last man in the world regarding a date. A rapid series of events have both Lizzy & Darcy regarding the other differently and they are quickly in a relationship.
In this variation Mrs. Bennet is a total bitch, Mr. Bennet is passively abusive, Mary is absent and Lydia is Lydia. Caroline is a psycho stalker of Darcy only mentioned, never appearing. Mrs. Reynolds appears as the Darcy's former housekeeper and all around savior.
Does the book need the Pride and Prejudice characters? No it is a decent romance novel and while they don't detract neither do they add to the story.
I will start by saying that this is an enjoyable and satisfying read. And it probably would have been just as good if the characters had different names and addresses.
The book begins as 21 year old Lizzy Bennet is preparing to marry Greg Wickham to make her parents happy. It is not a good marriage but her parents will not hear anything against the groom. He beats her brutally and she flees to the home of her sister Jane and brother in law Charles.
2 1/2 years later Charles' friend William (multinational conglomerate head) comes to visit. He makes assumptions about Lizzy Gardiner and is rude. The author shoehorns in the not handsome enough to tempt me regarding art work and last man in the world regarding a date. A rapid series of events have both Lizzy & Darcy regarding the other differently and they are quickly in a relationship.
In this variation Mrs. Bennet is a total bitch, Mr. Bennet is passively abusive, Mary is absent and Lydia is Lydia. Caroline is a psycho stalker of Darcy only mentioned, never appearing. Mrs. Reynolds appears as the Darcy's former housekeeper and all around savior.
Does the book need the Pride and Prejudice characters? No it is a decent romance novel and while they don't detract neither do they add to the story.
July 10, 2017
4.5 stars
June 7, 2018
A romantic love story that was particularly well adapted into the modern world.
Especially intrigued by the unique and inventive twist to Wickham and the generous amount of pages with ODC together.
Single mom, Elizabeth, was introduced to her brother-in-law's haughty friend. His off-standish attitude did not endear him to her.
He was only trying to quell his attraction by avoidance but when he finally caved in and asked her out, the reply was not what he was looking for.
He managed to improve her opinion of him and a whirlwind romance followed. Loved the development of their relationship, it was delightful to read.
Ends in an epilogue and little vignette, some years hence.
The book contained descriptions of violence and mature content which makes it appropriate for adults.
Heartily recommend this book!
Especially intrigued by the unique and inventive twist to Wickham and the generous amount of pages with ODC together.
Single mom, Elizabeth, was introduced to her brother-in-law's haughty friend. His off-standish attitude did not endear him to her.
He was only trying to quell his attraction by avoidance but when he finally caved in and asked her out, the reply was not what he was looking for.
He managed to improve her opinion of him and a whirlwind romance followed. Loved the development of their relationship, it was delightful to read.
Ends in an epilogue and little vignette, some years hence.
The book contained descriptions of violence and mature content which makes it appropriate for adults.
Heartily recommend this book!
May 2, 2022
A modern P&P variation where Elizabeth, survivor of a domestic abuse relationship and now single mother meets Darcy… who still found her to be beneath him initially but then decides to ask her out anyway against his will, against his reason, and even against his character!
Alas, this modern version of P&P was simply not for me. DNF. Elizabeth’s quickly goes from disliking Darcy and rejecting him when he asks her out on a date (he insults her and her family while asking her out, similar the the disastrous Hunsford proposal) to the next day accepting a car as a gift from him and suddenly she finds him sweet and will dance/hang out with him?! She has been refusing to allow her sister and BIL to help cosign a loan for a car but accepts a car gift from Darcy after rejecting his offer of a date… just no. Just saying, but she is living in 2012 and is independent. This isn’t the 1800s where women were dependent on men or their families financially (and even then it would have been inappropriate to have accepted a gift nor would she have while disliking him!). Also, after her last relationship being abusive you’d think she wouldn’t warm up to Darcy so quickly when he had insulted her and made her feel ignored.
Alas, this modern version of P&P was simply not for me. DNF. Elizabeth’s quickly goes from disliking Darcy and rejecting him when he asks her out on a date (he insults her and her family while asking her out, similar the the disastrous Hunsford proposal) to the next day accepting a car as a gift from him and suddenly she finds him sweet and will dance/hang out with him?! She has been refusing to allow her sister and BIL to help cosign a loan for a car but accepts a car gift from Darcy after rejecting his offer of a date… just no. Just saying, but she is living in 2012 and is independent. This isn’t the 1800s where women were dependent on men or their families financially (and even then it would have been inappropriate to have accepted a gift nor would she have while disliking him!). Also, after her last relationship being abusive you’d think she wouldn’t warm up to Darcy so quickly when he had insulted her and made her feel ignored.
February 2, 2022
Unfortunately, I couldn't finish this book. Elizabeth here has a past of abuse, then she refuses a man, but later accepts a car from him - even when she didn't accept from her own sister!
I can't see Elizabeth accepting a carriage from Mr. Darcy after the Hunsford debacle. Even when the variations make her accept him for pecuniary circumstances, the reasons are always extreme, as her father's dead. And being a woman in Regency doesn't give you many choices. This Elizabeth doesn't live in poverty. No, no, no.
I can't see Elizabeth accepting a carriage from Mr. Darcy after the Hunsford debacle. Even when the variations make her accept him for pecuniary circumstances, the reasons are always extreme, as her father's dead. And being a woman in Regency doesn't give you many choices. This Elizabeth doesn't live in poverty. No, no, no.
August 20, 2019
It starts with an almost tragedy
And from there it takes the reader to a very interesting love story. A really good d that keeps you turning pages.
And from there it takes the reader to a very interesting love story. A really good d that keeps you turning pages.
Read
November 3, 2017A Matter of Chance is a contemporary retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. L.L. Diamond puts the characters in the U.S. South, turning Longbourn into an Antebellum home. Lizzy Gardiner — having cut ties with the Bennets — inherited the home from her great aunt and lives alone with her two-year-old daughter and overprotective dog, Bear. She teaches art at a local college and prides herself in not depending on anyone for anything — not since she showed up at her sister and brother-in-law’s home two years ago after fleeing her abusive husband, Greg Wickham.
Things aren’t easy for her, but life gets more complicated when she meets her brother-in-law Charles Bingley’s best friend, William Darcy, the CEO of a multi-million-dollar conglomerate who has returned to Mertyon after running to England three years ago following the accident that killed his father and sister. He is immediately drawn to Lizzy, but his intense stares, arrogant attitude, and thoughtless remarks make her uncomfortable and ultimately angry. As William begins to move on after his loss and let Lizzy into his heart, she is determined not to allow him to help her. Her fierce independence could prevent her from finding happiness, and the past catching up to her could destroy them both.
This was my first L.L. Diamond book, but it definitely won’t be the last. (And I sincerely apologize to her for taking so long to read and review this book!) She does an amazing job bringing Darcy and Elizabeth into the present and into a different setting. The characters are beautifully flawed, their losses and their fears making them hesitant. I loved how Diamond turned the Bennets (aside from Jane, of course) into such obnoxious, shockingly bad people and Mrs. Reynolds into the kindest, most generous lady ever. I enjoyed watching Will and Lizzy’s relationship evolve. Lizzy’s daughter, Melanie, is a sweetheart, and her bond with Will is melt-your-heart adorable. At times I felt the progression of their relationship could’ve been tightened up and more time could’ve been spent on Lizzy’s ex, Greg, and Will’s stalker, Caroline Bingley. But none of that interfered with my enjoyment of the novel, as Diamond does a fantastic job throwing obstacles in Will and Lizzy’s path and making them work for the strength to overcome them.
A Matter of Chance is a well-written retelling of Austen’s beloved novel, and while it could stand on its own without the connection to Darcy and Elizabeth, I was delighted to follow them into another place and time. Diamond captures the essence of Pride and Prejudice in these pages, showing how timeless the plot and characters truly are.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
Things aren’t easy for her, but life gets more complicated when she meets her brother-in-law Charles Bingley’s best friend, William Darcy, the CEO of a multi-million-dollar conglomerate who has returned to Mertyon after running to England three years ago following the accident that killed his father and sister. He is immediately drawn to Lizzy, but his intense stares, arrogant attitude, and thoughtless remarks make her uncomfortable and ultimately angry. As William begins to move on after his loss and let Lizzy into his heart, she is determined not to allow him to help her. Her fierce independence could prevent her from finding happiness, and the past catching up to her could destroy them both.
This was my first L.L. Diamond book, but it definitely won’t be the last. (And I sincerely apologize to her for taking so long to read and review this book!) She does an amazing job bringing Darcy and Elizabeth into the present and into a different setting. The characters are beautifully flawed, their losses and their fears making them hesitant. I loved how Diamond turned the Bennets (aside from Jane, of course) into such obnoxious, shockingly bad people and Mrs. Reynolds into the kindest, most generous lady ever. I enjoyed watching Will and Lizzy’s relationship evolve. Lizzy’s daughter, Melanie, is a sweetheart, and her bond with Will is melt-your-heart adorable. At times I felt the progression of their relationship could’ve been tightened up and more time could’ve been spent on Lizzy’s ex, Greg, and Will’s stalker, Caroline Bingley. But none of that interfered with my enjoyment of the novel, as Diamond does a fantastic job throwing obstacles in Will and Lizzy’s path and making them work for the strength to overcome them.
A Matter of Chance is a well-written retelling of Austen’s beloved novel, and while it could stand on its own without the connection to Darcy and Elizabeth, I was delighted to follow them into another place and time. Diamond captures the essence of Pride and Prejudice in these pages, showing how timeless the plot and characters truly are.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
December 18, 2016
3.5*
Dear Reader,
This is a modern,low angst P&P variation that is centred around a very loving and romantic Darcy and Lizzy.
Lizzy,a survivor of domestic abuse at the hands of none other than her husband Greg Wickham,and her adorable little girl Melanie,are not what Darcy is seeking in a prospective partner.
Fearing how his shareholders,family and friends will react,he initially fights his attraction to Lizzy,only for him to arrogantly ask her out on a date,some time later.
Woefully expressing his grave reservations concerning her status as a single mother,and her artistic employment,he is humbled by her abject refusal to date him,and her deep dislike for his distant,proud and disdainful manner towards her.
Vowing that he's the last man in the world she would date,on their next meeting she seems to have forgotten all their previous encounters,as they slow dance together and so,in this manner,their relationship develops.
This is a very low angst story and what surprised me is how quickly Lizzy's natural reserve and mistrust of all men was broken down.
A victim of physical and verbal abuse,to say nothing of Greg's 'wish' to partake of his conjugal rights,(which thankfully is mentioned as an aside,not directly portrayed),I would have expected Lizzy to have been more reticent in her attitude to men.
I was anticipating a long haul in terms of the very many stumbling blocks that ODC would have to overcome before they finally enjoyed a loving relationship,a true meeting of minds,underlined by a shared sense of trust,faith and happiness in their future together.
This story,while very romantic and loving,was too sugary and unrealistic for me. I kept waiting for the horrors of Lizzy's past to come calling,to shatter the very happy present she,Melanie and Darcy had built.
Perhaps I'm an angst junkie,but the very swift resolution of past aggravations,in terms of both Wickham and her horrific experiences at his hands,was for me too quickly done and rendered this story a little disappointing,one that failed to mirror reality.
Dear Reader,
This is a modern,low angst P&P variation that is centred around a very loving and romantic Darcy and Lizzy.
Lizzy,a survivor of domestic abuse at the hands of none other than her husband Greg Wickham,and her adorable little girl Melanie,are not what Darcy is seeking in a prospective partner.
Fearing how his shareholders,family and friends will react,he initially fights his attraction to Lizzy,only for him to arrogantly ask her out on a date,some time later.
Woefully expressing his grave reservations concerning her status as a single mother,and her artistic employment,he is humbled by her abject refusal to date him,and her deep dislike for his distant,proud and disdainful manner towards her.
Vowing that he's the last man in the world she would date,on their next meeting she seems to have forgotten all their previous encounters,as they slow dance together and so,in this manner,their relationship develops.
This is a very low angst story and what surprised me is how quickly Lizzy's natural reserve and mistrust of all men was broken down.
A victim of physical and verbal abuse,to say nothing of Greg's 'wish' to partake of his conjugal rights,(which thankfully is mentioned as an aside,not directly portrayed),I would have expected Lizzy to have been more reticent in her attitude to men.
I was anticipating a long haul in terms of the very many stumbling blocks that ODC would have to overcome before they finally enjoyed a loving relationship,a true meeting of minds,underlined by a shared sense of trust,faith and happiness in their future together.
This story,while very romantic and loving,was too sugary and unrealistic for me. I kept waiting for the horrors of Lizzy's past to come calling,to shatter the very happy present she,Melanie and Darcy had built.
Perhaps I'm an angst junkie,but the very swift resolution of past aggravations,in terms of both Wickham and her horrific experiences at his hands,was for me too quickly done and rendered this story a little disappointing,one that failed to mirror reality.
June 17, 2020
A modern P&P retelling that had too much drama and was often tedious. The same conversations happened over and over. Lizzy doesn’t want to accept William’s help. Lizzy’s parents are horrible. Wickham is an evil man.
June 14, 2020
Things move along quickly and rely on us knowing the characters are meant to be together, but it feels weird rather than cutesy because of Lizzy’s abusive marriage. Finding Lizzy’s super quick turn around on her feelings a little too easy to be true, never mind her easy acceptance despite her past. I was also uncomfortable at some of William’s behaviours, which are a little controlling. We are supposed to know Darcy is a good guy and there can be a fine line between stalkery and adorable in dating (usually based on how welcome the attention is), but in this story we are also primed to be aware of her abuse so it’s hard to ignore the red flags. He buys her a car, aided by Jane, and based on this Lizzy feels she has to be grateful to him - i.e. financial control of her emotions. It’s even worse that this happens the day after she has rejected him. Then she says ok, friends, and he immediately ramps it up buying her special drinks, walking her places, slow dancing with her, touching her face etc. He even puts her to bed. A number of times Lizzy says she feels obliged to allow him to spend time with her. Even later when they are properly together he does pressure her a bit about accepting money and her feelings on it are minimised. Darcy can be somewhat forgiven for coming on too strong as he didn’t know about her marriage initially, but Jane is not a good sister encouraging this full on behaviour (Lizzy does call her out on it).
After around 30-35% once they are officially together, it’s possible to ignore that they got together so easily and focus more on the cuteness of their relationship. I did find that her being a single mother put the speed of their relationship in a different, and less realistic light. He is around her daughter immediately, which I found a bit strange. Jane and Charles allow him to spend a lot of time with Melly when Lizzy doesn’t even like him, with cuddles etc too. And when they have their first “date”, he stays over and is alone with Melly in the morning, dressing and feeding her without Lizzy knowing. I would not be cool with someone doing this with my child without asking, never mind someone who is mostly a stranger. I would have expected them to go quicker with the sleeping together and slower with the family time. Melly calls him Daddy I think even before they tell each other they love each other, but certainly before they decide to get married etc, which I found really irresponsible. I know it’s fluff but how can you be letting your daughter get so attached before you’re sure of the relationship yourself?! I was really annoyed by the idea that he could attach blame to Lizzy for Greg’s actions and consider breaking up. I just found that they moved way too fast and weren’t a believably solid couple when they got super serious.
The Bennet’s are awful to the point of parody. Jane is the only decent one, yet she also allows their parents to blindside Lizzy and minimises their behaviour and horrible accusations, particularly bad given that Melly witnesses it all. There are actually a lot of really extreme characters in all 3 families but we never get to see any real impact of their behaviour. We are told about rather than allowed to feel the drama. A lot of weird stuff goes on but everyone kind of sails through it.
Nothing is really explained to Melly either and she’s written at times as very young in her understanding and yet quite precocious in her abilities.
Overall the story has some nice bits, but it’s got too much drama to be a fluffy romance and it’s not deep enough to deal with the drama in a meaningful way. I only really finished it because I paid £4 for it!
After around 30-35% once they are officially together, it’s possible to ignore that they got together so easily and focus more on the cuteness of their relationship. I did find that her being a single mother put the speed of their relationship in a different, and less realistic light. He is around her daughter immediately, which I found a bit strange. Jane and Charles allow him to spend a lot of time with Melly when Lizzy doesn’t even like him, with cuddles etc too. And when they have their first “date”, he stays over and is alone with Melly in the morning, dressing and feeding her without Lizzy knowing. I would not be cool with someone doing this with my child without asking, never mind someone who is mostly a stranger. I would have expected them to go quicker with the sleeping together and slower with the family time. Melly calls him Daddy I think even before they tell each other they love each other, but certainly before they decide to get married etc, which I found really irresponsible. I know it’s fluff but how can you be letting your daughter get so attached before you’re sure of the relationship yourself?! I was really annoyed by the idea that he could attach blame to Lizzy for Greg’s actions and consider breaking up. I just found that they moved way too fast and weren’t a believably solid couple when they got super serious.
The Bennet’s are awful to the point of parody. Jane is the only decent one, yet she also allows their parents to blindside Lizzy and minimises their behaviour and horrible accusations, particularly bad given that Melly witnesses it all. There are actually a lot of really extreme characters in all 3 families but we never get to see any real impact of their behaviour. We are told about rather than allowed to feel the drama. A lot of weird stuff goes on but everyone kind of sails through it.
Nothing is really explained to Melly either and she’s written at times as very young in her understanding and yet quite precocious in her abilities.
Overall the story has some nice bits, but it’s got too much drama to be a fluffy romance and it’s not deep enough to deal with the drama in a meaningful way. I only really finished it because I paid £4 for it!
May 22, 2015
This is only the second modern Pride and Prejudice I have read, the first being Perfect Fit by Linda Wells. And just like with that novel I absolutely adored this book. I love reading a supportive Darcy and Lizzy relationship. It does suck that Lizzy was married to Wickham before she meets Darcy but I do love her daughter she had with him. Well not with him per se because he didn't believe that she was his. He was basically just a sperm donor. The Wickham in this book was a absolute monster. Who the hell beats up a pregnant woman? He does get whats to coming to him in the end though. The Bennets in this book are just as bad as Wickham in some respects. They don't want to hear anything bad about him. Everytime the conversation starts about how he treated Lizzy they start defending him like she was the one in the wrong. They actually believe that Melanie Jane is not even his because he told them a lie about Lizzy messing around on him when it was him who was messing around. I really didn't like the Bennets in this story. At least Lizzy had the good sense to not have them in her and Melanie's lives. She also changes her last name to her Aunt Mel's last name. Though we never get to meet Aunt Mel as she dies before the story even really gets started, she does leave Lizzy Longbourn in her will. Charles takes steps that Wickham can never get his hands on Longbourn at all.
Once Lizzy and Darcy clear up their intial impressions about each other they have the sweetest relationship. They are both supportive of the other and Will goes more than enough out of his way to make sure that Lizzy and Melanie are protected and have everything they could possibly need. Watching Will get used to be around Melly and taking care of her is funny in some parts of it. Just the way Lizzy finds him after being subjected to one of Melly's temper tantrums was funny to me.
I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to reading more of Ms. Diamond's books in the future. Her first book Rain and Retribution was also a very good read to me and everybody should check this author out.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Once Lizzy and Darcy clear up their intial impressions about each other they have the sweetest relationship. They are both supportive of the other and Will goes more than enough out of his way to make sure that Lizzy and Melanie are protected and have everything they could possibly need. Watching Will get used to be around Melly and taking care of her is funny in some parts of it. Just the way Lizzy finds him after being subjected to one of Melly's temper tantrums was funny to me.
I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to reading more of Ms. Diamond's books in the future. Her first book Rain and Retribution was also a very good read to me and everybody should check this author out.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
June 19, 2022
Wonderful
What an absolutely delightful and emotional journey to love for our dear couple. L.L. Diamond has written another wonderfully enjoyable variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice updated to the modern era. I was enjoying it so much I read it in one sitting without stopping.
What an absolutely delightful and emotional journey to love for our dear couple. L.L. Diamond has written another wonderfully enjoyable variation inspired by Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice updated to the modern era. I was enjoying it so much I read it in one sitting without stopping.
July 24, 2020
Loved this story!
This story was well-written and at times very moving. Elizabeth survives a very abusive first marriage to learn to trust and love, something that never existed with her first husband. The love story that came to be for her and Darcy was excellent. While there wasn’t too much intrigue in the story, I felt like I was given the gift of looking into the window of their lives and watching from the outside into the story of two lonely people that became a family. In the end, the villain gets his just due and our family gets their HEA.
This story was well-written and at times very moving. Elizabeth survives a very abusive first marriage to learn to trust and love, something that never existed with her first husband. The love story that came to be for her and Darcy was excellent. While there wasn’t too much intrigue in the story, I felt like I was given the gift of looking into the window of their lives and watching from the outside into the story of two lonely people that became a family. In the end, the villain gets his just due and our family gets their HEA.
Read
November 13, 2023Too slow too detailed
July 23, 2017
Can you believe my rating? I would never have believed a book where Elizabeth marries someone else would still gain such a score. The reason this worked for me, I believe, is because this really isn't a P&P in the traditional sense. The year is 2012 the location America. Elizabeth wants to please her parents, something she's never been able to do, and marries Greg Wickham. There are a few other names that have changed along with personalities. Lizzy Gardiner (as she goes by now) does not marry for love but for approval that's the first major change. The marriage last 5 years and is skimmed over because it's in a prologue and written like the bad memory it was. The only good thing that came from it was Melanie who is born the night she leaves Wickham after being badly beaten. By the end of the prologue this was not a question of P&P variety for me. I already felt it was its own story with some familiar names and that is what made it work IMO.
William Darcy has lost his family to a drunk driver and does not reside at Pemberley. His arrogance for his social status is still alive and well. He is a lawyer as is Bingley and Jane. When Charles introduces Jane's younger sister the attraction is there but the fact that she's a single, unwed mother does not escape his attention. So you can see that there are elements that are P&P similar but the language, local, and characters are altered making me forget this was D&E. In fact, if you are a fan of Catherine Anderson this book is very similar to her stories. It is based in the south, the h is a single mother with a violent past and her family for the most part disowned her. They seem to appear just out of torture and what confused me is that Jane even claimed them. I was furious when they showed up Thanksgiving (american holidays pulled you further away from considering it a P&P) but what made me most upset was Jane and Charles just sitting there. Darcy made that whole scene so much better as he defends Lizzy and Melly and their treatment.
Darcy, once having his set down by Lizzy, becomes a new man. He is so cute with 2 year old Melanie (AKA Melly Belly). This also is a weakness for me as I am a sucker when the H warms to kids. That bond you see here in this story is very endearing. This also has explicit sex scenes but what I loved is the clear friendship that is formed between D&E before anything else but like other L.L. Diamond books things could be shorter. I love spending time with the couple but others may feel a little less would be better. I think it needed more conflict to engage the reader a bit more. Wickham's part are very vague and we never really hear a true thought from him its elaborated by someone else's perception. Caroline Bingley was also touched on by William for playing such part in his past but you never see her. Mr. Bennet has no bond with Lizzy and the whole Bennet experience struck me like they were moochers from a trailer park. Oh and an honourable mention needs to go out for Bear. He is Lizzy and Melanie's four legged H that brought tears to my eyes. My rating is based off of my overall experience of the book not comparing it to a P&P variation. IMO there are key elements that need to remain the same in order to put it in that class I don't feel this one met them. Enjoy!
William Darcy has lost his family to a drunk driver and does not reside at Pemberley. His arrogance for his social status is still alive and well. He is a lawyer as is Bingley and Jane. When Charles introduces Jane's younger sister the attraction is there but the fact that she's a single, unwed mother does not escape his attention. So you can see that there are elements that are P&P similar but the language, local, and characters are altered making me forget this was D&E. In fact, if you are a fan of Catherine Anderson this book is very similar to her stories. It is based in the south, the h is a single mother with a violent past and her family for the most part disowned her. They seem to appear just out of torture and what confused me is that Jane even claimed them. I was furious when they showed up Thanksgiving (american holidays pulled you further away from considering it a P&P) but what made me most upset was Jane and Charles just sitting there. Darcy made that whole scene so much better as he defends Lizzy and Melly and their treatment.
Darcy, once having his set down by Lizzy, becomes a new man. He is so cute with 2 year old Melanie (AKA Melly Belly). This also is a weakness for me as I am a sucker when the H warms to kids. That bond you see here in this story is very endearing. This also has explicit sex scenes but what I loved is the clear friendship that is formed between D&E before anything else but like other L.L. Diamond books things could be shorter. I love spending time with the couple but others may feel a little less would be better. I think it needed more conflict to engage the reader a bit more. Wickham's part are very vague and we never really hear a true thought from him its elaborated by someone else's perception. Caroline Bingley was also touched on by William for playing such part in his past but you never see her. Mr. Bennet has no bond with Lizzy and the whole Bennet experience struck me like they were moochers from a trailer park. Oh and an honourable mention needs to go out for Bear. He is Lizzy and Melanie's four legged H that brought tears to my eyes. My rating is based off of my overall experience of the book not comparing it to a P&P variation. IMO there are key elements that need to remain the same in order to put it in that class I don't feel this one met them. Enjoy!
March 5, 2015
A Matter of Chance
Enjoyable modern variation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. No matter what time in history Darcy and Elizabeth are written, his pride and her prejudice rules their first encounters. This story takes place in Antebellum South with the beautiful plantations along the Mississippi River. Lizzy has inherited Longbourn from her Aunt Mel Gardiner, and Jane, a prominent lawyer has written a legal document that prevents anyone from taking to plantation or money she inherited from her, including her good for nothing ex husband. Both Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are a piece of work in this story. Originally made because she followed her dreams of being an artist and not a doctor or lawyer, they literally disown her and force her to marry Greg Wickham the son of her father's friend. Greg Wickham is not any better than George Wickham. After a harsh and brutal marriage, Lizzy finally takes shelter in Jane and Charles' home, Netherfield. Fast forward two years, and William Darcy has returned to Meryton as head of D&F enterprises returning from England fleeing for three years after the drunk driving accident that killed his father and sister. Having sold the family home, he moves into the guest house at Netherfield. Cannot keep his eyes off of Lizzy, but cannot keep his mouth shut either. After putting his large foot in his mouth several times matched with a none functioning brain, he and Lizzy have a screaming confrontation, not a marriage proposal but over a dinner date. Angry, frustrated, and determined William starts over to win her approval and affection. He has to accomplish this, because he is crazy about her and her two year old daughter, Melanie. Wanting nothing to do with her parents, two more unexpected confrontations, end her link to them forever. Twisted links between Darcy, Lizzy, and Greg bring a very happy ending for some of our characters, but not all. Delightful story.
Enjoyable modern variation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. No matter what time in history Darcy and Elizabeth are written, his pride and her prejudice rules their first encounters. This story takes place in Antebellum South with the beautiful plantations along the Mississippi River. Lizzy has inherited Longbourn from her Aunt Mel Gardiner, and Jane, a prominent lawyer has written a legal document that prevents anyone from taking to plantation or money she inherited from her, including her good for nothing ex husband. Both Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are a piece of work in this story. Originally made because she followed her dreams of being an artist and not a doctor or lawyer, they literally disown her and force her to marry Greg Wickham the son of her father's friend. Greg Wickham is not any better than George Wickham. After a harsh and brutal marriage, Lizzy finally takes shelter in Jane and Charles' home, Netherfield. Fast forward two years, and William Darcy has returned to Meryton as head of D&F enterprises returning from England fleeing for three years after the drunk driving accident that killed his father and sister. Having sold the family home, he moves into the guest house at Netherfield. Cannot keep his eyes off of Lizzy, but cannot keep his mouth shut either. After putting his large foot in his mouth several times matched with a none functioning brain, he and Lizzy have a screaming confrontation, not a marriage proposal but over a dinner date. Angry, frustrated, and determined William starts over to win her approval and affection. He has to accomplish this, because he is crazy about her and her two year old daughter, Melanie. Wanting nothing to do with her parents, two more unexpected confrontations, end her link to them forever. Twisted links between Darcy, Lizzy, and Greg bring a very happy ending for some of our characters, but not all. Delightful story.
January 27, 2015
I loved it!!! This story is a keeper. I have read it twice already. Will Darcy and Elizabeth Gardner find happiness. Elizabeth marries Wickham and has a child with him. It is a bad relationship but, she is strong and determined to be the best for herself and her daughter. There is no georgianna is the story, she is killed in a car crash. Jane and Bingley are happy together. I want more from this author.
July 13, 2022
I’ve read this one several times and enjoy the story itself quite a bit. While it does start out a bit hmmm stilted - lots of explaining about Lizzy’s situation - why she’s mowing, her teaching, the 3D sculpture the story starts moving along.
Is it P&P, not quite but still enjoyable.
Is it P&P, not quite but still enjoyable.
July 10, 2017
It was sweet
I think it's really 3.5 stars. I don't like too much angst, because it gets tiresome, but I thought William and Elizabeth became a couple a little too quickly. Also, I wanted more insight into the awful Bennets, because they barely popped up, though I was glad Wickham didn't get more time. And no real threats from Caroline or Aunt Catherine was a bit disappointed.
This may sound weird, but since the story was a modern adaptation, I was thrilled that Mr. Darcy was referred to as William the whole time. Yes, he's Mr. Darcy, but no one calls friends by their last names.
I think it's really 3.5 stars. I don't like too much angst, because it gets tiresome, but I thought William and Elizabeth became a couple a little too quickly. Also, I wanted more insight into the awful Bennets, because they barely popped up, though I was glad Wickham didn't get more time. And no real threats from Caroline or Aunt Catherine was a bit disappointed.
This may sound weird, but since the story was a modern adaptation, I was thrilled that Mr. Darcy was referred to as William the whole time. Yes, he's Mr. Darcy, but no one calls friends by their last names.
August 19, 2017
Set in the Southern US, this modern Pride and Prejudice story has Lizzy Gardner as a single mom who escaped an abusive marriage, and William Darcy does not make the best of impressions on her. A very interesting modern twist on the Jane Austen novel that also features Jane and Bingley as major characters while Lizzy's family rejects her for leaving from her charming and abusive ex-husband.
September 15, 2020
Pleased I finally read it
For months, I’ve swiped pass this novel on Kindle out of sheer prejudice to modern day variations of Pride and Prejudice. My need for new JAFF lead me to upload this novel and I’m happy that finally read it. Jane and Charles are still too weak for my taste, Mr Bennet was actually worse in this novel, Lydia a modern day pain as well as her mother ( perhaps more so). Worth reading!
For months, I’ve swiped pass this novel on Kindle out of sheer prejudice to modern day variations of Pride and Prejudice. My need for new JAFF lead me to upload this novel and I’m happy that finally read it. Jane and Charles are still too weak for my taste, Mr Bennet was actually worse in this novel, Lydia a modern day pain as well as her mother ( perhaps more so). Worth reading!
September 18, 2022
Fantastic book
All of L.L. Diamond books are MUST READS! This modern day Darcy and Lizzy book is phenomenal in showing the courage and personal fortitude we all love of our Lizzy. This Darcy turns out to be such a joy in that he gets over his shyness and snottiness a lot quicker than usual. I especially loved Melanie “Melly”…the sweet daughter of Lizzy’s. Thank you Ms. Diamond for this wonderful read…with the dramatic happenings in the past and the happy ever after!!
All of L.L. Diamond books are MUST READS! This modern day Darcy and Lizzy book is phenomenal in showing the courage and personal fortitude we all love of our Lizzy. This Darcy turns out to be such a joy in that he gets over his shyness and snottiness a lot quicker than usual. I especially loved Melanie “Melly”…the sweet daughter of Lizzy’s. Thank you Ms. Diamond for this wonderful read…with the dramatic happenings in the past and the happy ever after!!
July 3, 2021
This book can hold your attention and is well written but, as a work of JAFF, I found it a bit too distant from the original story. Lizzy’s spark is not quite there, even if the author fully justifies why that’s so. I thought Darcy’s character was more true to the original, though all in all a bit sappy.
January 2, 2023
A well written and realistic modernisation
4.5*
A favourite author who creates consistently well structured plots in both the modern and the regency genre.
In this book Lizzy is significantly wiser and cautious as a result of her previous life experiences. This leads to a more mature response to Darcy and his chronic foot-in-mouth behaviour.
4.5*
A favourite author who creates consistently well structured plots in both the modern and the regency genre.
In this book Lizzy is significantly wiser and cautious as a result of her previous life experiences. This leads to a more mature response to Darcy and his chronic foot-in-mouth behaviour.
September 18, 2024
4.5 Stars
I enjoyed this book for a few reasons:
- The author did a great job keeping the main focus on Darcy and Elizabeth despite many potential distractions that could have spotlighted other characters and their situation.
- I loved watching Darcy and Elizabeth's romance unfold.
- The supporting cast of characters was also well played.
I enjoyed this book for a few reasons:
- The author did a great job keeping the main focus on Darcy and Elizabeth despite many potential distractions that could have spotlighted other characters and their situation.
- I loved watching Darcy and Elizabeth's romance unfold.
- The supporting cast of characters was also well played.
September 19, 2024
A Matter of Chance is a Home Run!
I love this story. It is so sweet after Darcy pulls his head out!
There are some tender moments & some humor too, but the sweetness of the story makes it a favorite that I come back to every year!
Leslie Diamond is a genius with a big heart & a great imagination!
I love this story. It is so sweet after Darcy pulls his head out!
There are some tender moments & some humor too, but the sweetness of the story makes it a favorite that I come back to every year!
Leslie Diamond is a genius with a big heart & a great imagination!
September 13, 2014
Originally posted on My Kids led Me Back to Pride & Prejudice
This is my first modern JAFF !! I finally plucked up the courage to move out of the Regency era and luckily for me this book did not disappoint!' I think the key for me was whether I would be able to recognise Austen's Darcy 200 hundred years later and the answer was yes. Surprisingly a modern day Mr Darcy seemed more tangible, 1800's Darcy is a fantasy, yet modern Mr Darcy seemed real!!!
With a no nonsense approach we get straight into this story. After Elizabeth's failed marriage to an alcoholic wife beater, Greg Wickham, (oh why does that not surprise me!) Elizabeth turns up on Jane and Bingley's door step battered, bruised and about to give birth. Fast forward two years and Lizzy is ready to move on, taking possession of an antebellum house called Longbourn, which was left to her by her aunt Gardiner. At the same time Darcy returns from England and is staying at Jane and Bingley's guest house.
It was the blend of old and new, Austen's original dialogue and constant nods towards canon that endeared me to the story. The mixture of traditional and modern continued seamlessly throughout. For example when Darcy, Richard and Bingley would retire to Bingley's study for glasses of scotch it reminded me of the Regency customs of propriety. Darcy was always the gentleman holding car doors open, (heck any door for that matter) offering his coat and the list of gentlemanly gestures went on!!
Darcy offends Lizzy as per usual and instead of the grand gesture of saving Lydia, he has another grand gesture in mind. This goes some way towards making amends for his proud, haughty and insulting behaviour, wow 200 hundred years later and nothings changed! With references to the restoration of his ancestral home Pemberley, the author very cleverly ties in the current restoration work that is taking place at Chatsworth house as her model for a painting Lizzy does. So it would seem Austen's Darcy is modern Mr Darcy's ancestor.
"Lizzy was shocked when she came in the room to find her daughter sleeping soundly in William Darcy’s lap. What was even more incredible was that he didn’t seem to mind it in the least. In fact, he was stroking her hair softly as he spoke with Charles. She’d noticed early on how handsome he was, but he’d often ruined her appreciation of his looks with his haughty demeanor. Now, he was sitting there, cradling Melanie in such a gentle manner, that she found herself genuinely attracted to him. What was it about a man holding a baby that could generate lust in the most frigid of women? Jane had commented after Melly was born how sexy she found Charles when he held the baby. Lizzy had never seen Charles as anything more than her brother, so she hadn’t truly understood the comments until now." -L.L.Diamond
This Darcy was likeable and swoonworthy! Put into one word, he was adorable. Funnily enough Darcy was the prejudiced one, while Lizzy was the proud one. Lizzy is a lovely person (no surprises there) and I took to her quickly. Her daughter was cute and watching Darcy take on the role of her father was heart warming to see. Jane, Bingley and Richard were there in the all the essentials and you could definitely relate them to canon.
Witnessing Darcy gain Lizzy's trust after her terrible marriage to Greg Wickham was enjoyable. Although not a clean read I enjoyed how the author tackled the issue around such subjects and it was very tastefully done. Elizabeth had already been married and Wickham had been her only partner. While Darcy although no stranger to the bed, was a gentleman in all the ways I would imagine him to be in the 20th century, where old ideals are so far and few between.
Elizabeth is an artist in this and considering the Author is also, it was easy for her to portray Elizabeth as an artist also. As we know food plays an important role in Austen's books and tells the reader a lot, simply by the dishes that are cooked. I can only surmise that the author is a lover of food because you are often left hungry. I have a very unadventurous palate as I am a fussy eater but even I was left curious as what some of the dishes would taste like. Oh how I could I forget! Mrs Reynolds is in this and is as delightful as ever, she can cook too!
If I must offer any criticism is it petty and will be short lived, so here goes, as in Diamond's other novel Rain and Retribution the remaining Bennets are antagonists that I loathe dislike, there I said it!
Back to pleasantries I really enjoyed seeing what a modern day Darcy would be like, I think what is unique in comparison to Regency set JAFF's is that you get a mixture of what Darcy is like before and after marriage. For instance when Darcy is at Elizabeth's house while they are dating, he would often come up behind her and give her a hug, these are what I call 'sweet Darcylicious intimacy moments' that you would only get after marriage in a Regency novel. I have no scruples in admitting that as a result of these 'Darcylicious moments' I am now eager to read some more modern takes on Pride and Prejudice! Thank you Diamond for a delightful introduction to 'modern Mr Darcy'!
This is my first modern JAFF !! I finally plucked up the courage to move out of the Regency era and luckily for me this book did not disappoint!' I think the key for me was whether I would be able to recognise Austen's Darcy 200 hundred years later and the answer was yes. Surprisingly a modern day Mr Darcy seemed more tangible, 1800's Darcy is a fantasy, yet modern Mr Darcy seemed real!!!
With a no nonsense approach we get straight into this story. After Elizabeth's failed marriage to an alcoholic wife beater, Greg Wickham, (oh why does that not surprise me!) Elizabeth turns up on Jane and Bingley's door step battered, bruised and about to give birth. Fast forward two years and Lizzy is ready to move on, taking possession of an antebellum house called Longbourn, which was left to her by her aunt Gardiner. At the same time Darcy returns from England and is staying at Jane and Bingley's guest house.
It was the blend of old and new, Austen's original dialogue and constant nods towards canon that endeared me to the story. The mixture of traditional and modern continued seamlessly throughout. For example when Darcy, Richard and Bingley would retire to Bingley's study for glasses of scotch it reminded me of the Regency customs of propriety. Darcy was always the gentleman holding car doors open, (heck any door for that matter) offering his coat and the list of gentlemanly gestures went on!!
Darcy offends Lizzy as per usual and instead of the grand gesture of saving Lydia, he has another grand gesture in mind. This goes some way towards making amends for his proud, haughty and insulting behaviour, wow 200 hundred years later and nothings changed! With references to the restoration of his ancestral home Pemberley, the author very cleverly ties in the current restoration work that is taking place at Chatsworth house as her model for a painting Lizzy does. So it would seem Austen's Darcy is modern Mr Darcy's ancestor.
"Lizzy was shocked when she came in the room to find her daughter sleeping soundly in William Darcy’s lap. What was even more incredible was that he didn’t seem to mind it in the least. In fact, he was stroking her hair softly as he spoke with Charles. She’d noticed early on how handsome he was, but he’d often ruined her appreciation of his looks with his haughty demeanor. Now, he was sitting there, cradling Melanie in such a gentle manner, that she found herself genuinely attracted to him. What was it about a man holding a baby that could generate lust in the most frigid of women? Jane had commented after Melly was born how sexy she found Charles when he held the baby. Lizzy had never seen Charles as anything more than her brother, so she hadn’t truly understood the comments until now." -L.L.Diamond
This Darcy was likeable and swoonworthy! Put into one word, he was adorable. Funnily enough Darcy was the prejudiced one, while Lizzy was the proud one. Lizzy is a lovely person (no surprises there) and I took to her quickly. Her daughter was cute and watching Darcy take on the role of her father was heart warming to see. Jane, Bingley and Richard were there in the all the essentials and you could definitely relate them to canon.
Witnessing Darcy gain Lizzy's trust after her terrible marriage to Greg Wickham was enjoyable. Although not a clean read I enjoyed how the author tackled the issue around such subjects and it was very tastefully done. Elizabeth had already been married and Wickham had been her only partner. While Darcy although no stranger to the bed, was a gentleman in all the ways I would imagine him to be in the 20th century, where old ideals are so far and few between.
Elizabeth is an artist in this and considering the Author is also, it was easy for her to portray Elizabeth as an artist also. As we know food plays an important role in Austen's books and tells the reader a lot, simply by the dishes that are cooked. I can only surmise that the author is a lover of food because you are often left hungry. I have a very unadventurous palate as I am a fussy eater but even I was left curious as what some of the dishes would taste like. Oh how I could I forget! Mrs Reynolds is in this and is as delightful as ever, she can cook too!
If I must offer any criticism is it petty and will be short lived, so here goes, as in Diamond's other novel Rain and Retribution the remaining Bennets are antagonists that I loathe dislike, there I said it!
Back to pleasantries I really enjoyed seeing what a modern day Darcy would be like, I think what is unique in comparison to Regency set JAFF's is that you get a mixture of what Darcy is like before and after marriage. For instance when Darcy is at Elizabeth's house while they are dating, he would often come up behind her and give her a hug, these are what I call 'sweet Darcylicious intimacy moments' that you would only get after marriage in a Regency novel. I have no scruples in admitting that as a result of these 'Darcylicious moments' I am now eager to read some more modern takes on Pride and Prejudice! Thank you Diamond for a delightful introduction to 'modern Mr Darcy'!
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