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The Slipper Scandal: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
One masquerade. One misplaced slipper. One very unexpected betrothal.
When Elizabeth Bennet dons the mask of Athena at a glittering Twelfth Night masquerade, she expects only an evening of diversion—not disaster. But after a misadventure involving a determined rake, a lost shoe, and a most inconvenient encounter in the garden, she finds herself at the centre of London’s latest scandal.
Fitzwilliam Darcy prides himself on propriety. But when he spots a lady in distress at a ball and gallantly steps in to help, he doesn’t rescue her from trouble—he walks straight into it with her. One country maiden, a moonlight encounter, and a slipper in the wrong hands is all it the ton believes them engaged—or worse. Now entangled with the quick-witted, sharp-tongued Miss Elizabeth Bennet, his carefully ordered, predictable world begins to unravel.
Darcy is prepared to do what honour demands. Elizabeth, however, is prepared to do anything to escape the engagement—including leveraging her intellect, wit, and every ounce of stubborn determination she possesses. Unfortunately for her, Mr. Darcy is equally resolved not to let society destroy their reputations—or to let her go.
Sometimes it takes a masquerade to reveal the truth, a lost slipper to find your footing, and a forced engagement to discover a love worth fighting for.
The Slipper Scandal is the second standalone novel in the Darcy & Elizabeth Rom Com Collection.
*This is a full-length novel of approximately 90,000 words
When Elizabeth Bennet dons the mask of Athena at a glittering Twelfth Night masquerade, she expects only an evening of diversion—not disaster. But after a misadventure involving a determined rake, a lost shoe, and a most inconvenient encounter in the garden, she finds herself at the centre of London’s latest scandal.
Fitzwilliam Darcy prides himself on propriety. But when he spots a lady in distress at a ball and gallantly steps in to help, he doesn’t rescue her from trouble—he walks straight into it with her. One country maiden, a moonlight encounter, and a slipper in the wrong hands is all it the ton believes them engaged—or worse. Now entangled with the quick-witted, sharp-tongued Miss Elizabeth Bennet, his carefully ordered, predictable world begins to unravel.
Darcy is prepared to do what honour demands. Elizabeth, however, is prepared to do anything to escape the engagement—including leveraging her intellect, wit, and every ounce of stubborn determination she possesses. Unfortunately for her, Mr. Darcy is equally resolved not to let society destroy their reputations—or to let her go.
Sometimes it takes a masquerade to reveal the truth, a lost slipper to find your footing, and a forced engagement to discover a love worth fighting for.
The Slipper Scandal is the second standalone novel in the Darcy & Elizabeth Rom Com Collection.
*This is a full-length novel of approximately 90,000 words
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2025
312 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
July 4, 2025
I have read and enjoyed many of this author's stories and her books are ones I borrow automatically when I read of their release.
This one has Elizabeth staying with family friends, the Abernathys, in London. The daughter, Arabella, is her good friend. (No, we don't read of Jane in that role in this book.)
The family attends a Twelfth Night masquerade and while trying to escape the unwanted attentions of one man, Elizabeth loses her slipper, which is picked up by Darcy. Unfortunately, the couple is now seen as compromised by that other man, who immediately spreads gossip about such. Here we have a Darcy who does not hesitate to save Elizabeth from ruin. He announces that they are engaged.
So the story focuses on Elizabeth's fears that such a marriage will only turn out as her parents have...love absent and resentment flourishing. She is furthermore fearful that when Darcy meets her family he will resent there marriage even more than for being forced.
The Colonel and Arabella have a bit of the story. The Matlocks with their older son, also play a part.
We, too, have scenes with the Bennets and their relationship.
I enjoyed reading of Elizabeth's struggles and also how she came to know Darcy well enough to lose her fears. Darcy is ever gentle and patient with our girl.
There is an epilogue which I always enjoy.
This one has Elizabeth staying with family friends, the Abernathys, in London. The daughter, Arabella, is her good friend. (No, we don't read of Jane in that role in this book.)
The family attends a Twelfth Night masquerade and while trying to escape the unwanted attentions of one man, Elizabeth loses her slipper, which is picked up by Darcy. Unfortunately, the couple is now seen as compromised by that other man, who immediately spreads gossip about such. Here we have a Darcy who does not hesitate to save Elizabeth from ruin. He announces that they are engaged.
So the story focuses on Elizabeth's fears that such a marriage will only turn out as her parents have...love absent and resentment flourishing. She is furthermore fearful that when Darcy meets her family he will resent there marriage even more than for being forced.
The Colonel and Arabella have a bit of the story. The Matlocks with their older son, also play a part.
We, too, have scenes with the Bennets and their relationship.
I enjoyed reading of Elizabeth's struggles and also how she came to know Darcy well enough to lose her fears. Darcy is ever gentle and patient with our girl.
There is an epilogue which I always enjoy.
July 1, 2025
Darcy and Elizabeth meet in the garden in somewhat suspicious-looking circumstances and Darcy decides to save the day by announcing their engagement. Elizabeth is distraught because her parents had a forced sort of a beginning to their marriage and it evolved into bitter arguments and cold sarcasm. So Elizabeth is reluctant to marry him and Darcy needs to prove himself to her while his family decide to meddle (Colonel Fitzwilliam's brother reminds me of Saye somehow).
This was quite sweet and funny. Elizabeth's stubbornness gets a bit old as she rehashes the same arguments over and over, but I suppose it was necessary so we can get Darcy trying his best.
This was quite sweet and funny. Elizabeth's stubbornness gets a bit old as she rehashes the same arguments over and over, but I suppose it was necessary so we can get Darcy trying his best.
July 8, 2025
Perfect if shortened
This story would be perfect if not for the repeated interruptions which contrived to keep the main characters from having honest conversations.
This story would be perfect if not for the repeated interruptions which contrived to keep the main characters from having honest conversations.
June 24, 2025
The Slipper Scandal by Melanie Rachel is another funny, warmhearted tale from a favorite author. Darcy and Elizabeth are found in a compromising position, so even though they have only been introduced, they are engaged. Darcy is immediately intrigued by Elizabeth, while Elizabeth is terrified that she will be entering a marriage that will mirror her parents’. In order to overcome Elizabeth’s fears, Darcy will need to woo, with a lot of assistance from the Fitzwilliams.
Darcy was awkward most of the time, but he also had some really dreamy moments. The Fitzwilliams, especially Milton, almost stole the show as their “help” resulted in most of the humor in the book. This book had a lot of original characters, and they all added to my enjoyment. I did not want to put the book down. I highly recommend this book to all Jane Austen fans.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Darcy was awkward most of the time, but he also had some really dreamy moments. The Fitzwilliams, especially Milton, almost stole the show as their “help” resulted in most of the humor in the book. This book had a lot of original characters, and they all added to my enjoyment. I did not want to put the book down. I highly recommend this book to all Jane Austen fans.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
July 11, 2025
Wonderful
Elizabeth's best friend is Arabella Abernathy, from a wealthy and well connected family in London. Elizabeth is a guest at their home, they attend a Twelfth Night masquerade ball, and it's there that she's introduced to Darcy, who admires her wit and beauty. A compromising situation arises during the evening, resulting in Darcy offering Elizabeth marriage to save her reputation. Elizabeth is firmly against a marriage of obligation because her own parents were forced to wed, and ended up in an unhappy life. Darcy must try to convince Elizabeth that they have a much better chance to find happiness in spite of their beginning.
I like this author. She's an automatic purchase for me. The writing is wonderful and there's plenty of banter and lovely romance. I deducted two stars because of the annoyance factor. First was the Fitzwilliam family who like Elizabeth and wish to help convince her that she and Darcy are a perfect match. However, they do it in a most frustrating and annoying way which was, I know, supposed to be humorous but just became tedious. Then there's Mrs Bennett who shows up, unexpected and unwanted, in London, and is a veritable lunatic about Elizabeth's engagement. Again, I know it's meant to be funny, but it's not, it's only completely ludicrous and annoying. I started skimming through these parts, and that's never a good sign.
Thankfully, we're given a swoon worthy Darcy, and a clever and confident Elizabeth to keep the story interesting. I recommend the book.
Elizabeth's best friend is Arabella Abernathy, from a wealthy and well connected family in London. Elizabeth is a guest at their home, they attend a Twelfth Night masquerade ball, and it's there that she's introduced to Darcy, who admires her wit and beauty. A compromising situation arises during the evening, resulting in Darcy offering Elizabeth marriage to save her reputation. Elizabeth is firmly against a marriage of obligation because her own parents were forced to wed, and ended up in an unhappy life. Darcy must try to convince Elizabeth that they have a much better chance to find happiness in spite of their beginning.
I like this author. She's an automatic purchase for me. The writing is wonderful and there's plenty of banter and lovely romance. I deducted two stars because of the annoyance factor. First was the Fitzwilliam family who like Elizabeth and wish to help convince her that she and Darcy are a perfect match. However, they do it in a most frustrating and annoying way which was, I know, supposed to be humorous but just became tedious. Then there's Mrs Bennett who shows up, unexpected and unwanted, in London, and is a veritable lunatic about Elizabeth's engagement. Again, I know it's meant to be funny, but it's not, it's only completely ludicrous and annoying. I started skimming through these parts, and that's never a good sign.
Thankfully, we're given a swoon worthy Darcy, and a clever and confident Elizabeth to keep the story interesting. I recommend the book.
August 15, 2025
Lizzy has fear of marriage, given her parents awful bond.
The story explains the Bennet marriage and why her parents are so awful. Can a marriage which doesn’t start with trust, respect and affection turn out well. A woman in those days had no safety net. Women couldn’t get jobs and manage their own safety and independence.
This is a deep dive into the world of Pride and Prejudice. Well written tale .
The story explains the Bennet marriage and why her parents are so awful. Can a marriage which doesn’t start with trust, respect and affection turn out well. A woman in those days had no safety net. Women couldn’t get jobs and manage their own safety and independence.
This is a deep dive into the world of Pride and Prejudice. Well written tale .
June 27, 2025
Melanie Rachel just keeps getting better with each new story she writes. They all have a different tone and flavor. Subtle changes in our favorite characters to make them unique to each story with new emotions and motivations. This one wasn’t as light as her last few and focused more on the hearts of our dear couple. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing them both examining their hearts and hopes for the future and to come to a decision if their paths would combine or diverge. I can’t wait to see what she will explore in her next book and what changes she implements.
November 21, 2025
4.5 stars
As is usual by this author, the story is very well written. It is inspired by Cinderella but it isn't a fairy tale.
The story takes place in London over a year before the original Pride and Prejudice timeline.
Elizabeth is staying with a dear friend in London. Her friends family is friends with Mr Darcy and introduces him to Elizabeth at a masquerade ball. Darcy is instantly captivated by Elizabeth. Elizabeth is harassed by rake and slips outside to avoid him. Darcy tries to run interference but they end up in compromising situation, because Darcy is holding Elizabeths slipper. As revenge the rake spreads the tale far and wide. To stem the gossip Darcy announces that they are engage, without consulting Elizabeth. You can imagine how she likes that!
Enjoy Darcy trying to win a stubborn Elizabeth's heart.
I listened to the audio version, and Harry Frost is always wonderful
As is usual by this author, the story is very well written. It is inspired by Cinderella but it isn't a fairy tale.
The story takes place in London over a year before the original Pride and Prejudice timeline.
Elizabeth is staying with a dear friend in London. Her friends family is friends with Mr Darcy and introduces him to Elizabeth at a masquerade ball. Darcy is instantly captivated by Elizabeth. Elizabeth is harassed by rake and slips outside to avoid him. Darcy tries to run interference but they end up in compromising situation, because Darcy is holding Elizabeths slipper. As revenge the rake spreads the tale far and wide. To stem the gossip Darcy announces that they are engage, without consulting Elizabeth. You can imagine how she likes that!
Enjoy Darcy trying to win a stubborn Elizabeth's heart.
I listened to the audio version, and Harry Frost is always wonderful
July 1, 2025
Good
I have to admit that I'm not a fan of most forced marriage scenarios because of how they typically play out. However, I read this particular one out of curiosity about what the author had in store. While some elements I usually try to avoid were present, there were also parts that I really enjoyed.
- Darcy's musical talent (I love it when Darcy paints, plays music, sings, or writes).
- The scene with Mr. and Mrs. Bennet when the truth is revealed.
- The relationship between Elizabeth and Arabella. The Abernathys were a nice addition.
- It’s an easy read since the usual troublemakers are absent.
I have to admit that I'm not a fan of most forced marriage scenarios because of how they typically play out. However, I read this particular one out of curiosity about what the author had in store. While some elements I usually try to avoid were present, there were also parts that I really enjoyed.
- Darcy's musical talent (I love it when Darcy paints, plays music, sings, or writes).
- The scene with Mr. and Mrs. Bennet when the truth is revealed.
- The relationship between Elizabeth and Arabella. The Abernathys were a nice addition.
- It’s an easy read since the usual troublemakers are absent.
June 27, 2025
Pitch perfect
Just when I was beginning to wonder if my dissatisfaction with recent JAFF reflected my own mood rather than the books' quality, Melanie Rachel has gifted us with a most impressive novel, so true to the characters of ODC, yet set in circumstances different from those in P&P. This tale of a sort-of compromise and a sort-of forced engagement delves deeply into the psyches of ODC, laces the action with sometimes well-meaning but exasperating familial obstacles, and emerges triumphantly with the well-deserved HEA.
Just when I was beginning to wonder if my dissatisfaction with recent JAFF reflected my own mood rather than the books' quality, Melanie Rachel has gifted us with a most impressive novel, so true to the characters of ODC, yet set in circumstances different from those in P&P. This tale of a sort-of compromise and a sort-of forced engagement delves deeply into the psyches of ODC, laces the action with sometimes well-meaning but exasperating familial obstacles, and emerges triumphantly with the well-deserved HEA.
June 28, 2025
Perfectly lovely
An obstinate, stubborn Elizabeth tries to distance herself from Darcy, as he tries to salvage her reputation through a "forced" engagement. Lizzy's fears of an obligatory marriage, combined with the example of her mismatched, difficult parents, cause her to ignore her own growing feelings for Darcy. Luckily, she learns that love can conquer all. Story is told with witty dialogue, tender moments, and sometimes painful realities. Loved it!
An obstinate, stubborn Elizabeth tries to distance herself from Darcy, as he tries to salvage her reputation through a "forced" engagement. Lizzy's fears of an obligatory marriage, combined with the example of her mismatched, difficult parents, cause her to ignore her own growing feelings for Darcy. Luckily, she learns that love can conquer all. Story is told with witty dialogue, tender moments, and sometimes painful realities. Loved it!
December 2, 2025
Poetic prose!
July 11, 2025
The writing is impeccable as always. Melanie Rachel is one of my favourite authors but I couldn't warm up to this story. I really struggled to finish it. Elizabeth is too stubborn and too insecure for my taste. She starts petulant and finishes weak. This variation is still a cut above the rest, but it's not the best variation by this author in my opinion.
July 7, 2025
Can a compromise lead to a happily ever after? Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy each have to evaluate their thoughts and fears about marriage and expectations as individuals and as a couple. A fantastic supporting cast of characters “helps” them find their way.
July 4, 2025
Notwithstanding a couple of nice touches, such as Darcy playing the violin, Elizabeth just pissed me off! Insisting on her assumptions, she was a coward. And not willing to fight for someone she supposedly loved. And the Bennets were ridiculously over-the-top! Someone should have shut Mrs. B up the moment she opened her mouth! Unfortunately, even though I normally enjoy this author‘s work, I was not pleased.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2025
The biggest catch
I thoroughly liked the first book, Mr. Darcy's Folly, of the author's RomCom series, and rated it 4.5 stars. To my pleasure, I enjoyed this second story even more! This is a Darcy that I look for when reading JAFF: honourable, determined, and intelligent. As other reviewers have mentioned, this is a Darcy-and-Elizabeth-centred book. I didn't miss the usual cast of characters at all—the sisterly love of the Bennet sisters and the wisdom and guidance of the Gardiners were well fulfilled by the new characters.
I loved the dialogue, the wit, and the zingers flung. Following the numerous punny lines, I compare the story arc to a fisherman striving to capture the fabled biggest catch.
If you are looking for an insightful, low-angst and touching story, don't miss this book.
I thoroughly liked the first book, Mr. Darcy's Folly, of the author's RomCom series, and rated it 4.5 stars. To my pleasure, I enjoyed this second story even more! This is a Darcy that I look for when reading JAFF: honourable, determined, and intelligent. As other reviewers have mentioned, this is a Darcy-and-Elizabeth-centred book. I didn't miss the usual cast of characters at all—the sisterly love of the Bennet sisters and the wisdom and guidance of the Gardiners were well fulfilled by the new characters.
I loved the dialogue, the wit, and the zingers flung. Following the numerous punny lines, I compare the story arc to a fisherman striving to capture the fabled biggest catch.
If you are looking for an insightful, low-angst and touching story, don't miss this book.
January 8, 2026
This was a very charming read. Lots of yearning and understandable reservations. I thouroughly enjoyed this.
June 28, 2025
Heartwarming
What a lovely story! From laughter and embarrassment to friendship and true love!
I truly enjoyed the Abernathys and Arabella. They were a great addition to the story. The dinner party with the fish — never have I laughed so hard! Elizabeth was a dichotomy of strength and weakness. Strength in facing down the dissenters in the ton, and weakness with dealing with her fears. A marriage is something worked on daily even when there is commitment. She just needed that lesson — the book chronicles her journey to understanding and love.
Thank you to the author.
What a lovely story! From laughter and embarrassment to friendship and true love!
I truly enjoyed the Abernathys and Arabella. They were a great addition to the story. The dinner party with the fish — never have I laughed so hard! Elizabeth was a dichotomy of strength and weakness. Strength in facing down the dissenters in the ton, and weakness with dealing with her fears. A marriage is something worked on daily even when there is commitment. She just needed that lesson — the book chronicles her journey to understanding and love.
Thank you to the author.
June 27, 2025
(notes) Melanie Rachel never disappoints. After reading Mr Darcy's Folly, I knew this would be good too. Longest weeks ever waiting for the release, but worth it. Can't decide if I liked Mr. Abernathy or Viscount Milton more.... No, Milton for sure. I need more of him. So much more. Loved the build up and the plot, plus very real fears. Just another variation that my bookshelves will demand a printed copy of. Best to give the bookshelf gods their tribute.
December 24, 2025
This was a DNF for me. I enjoyed the writing style, but Elizabeth and Darcy were just not true to their characters in my opinion. Elizabeth was too concerned for herself, not enough for her sisters or friends, which isn’t like Elizabeth in my opinion. Darcy was less concerned about others and their opinions, which wasn’t very much like Darcy. There was really no pride or prejudice for me. I felt that the flow was not an easy one to Elizabeth was annoying and it was very wordy. I will be giving this author another shot as I did like how the book was written and that they were very few typos, comparatively to other pride, and prejudice variations
November 17, 2025
Compromised… and Courted
In The Slipper Scandal, Elizabeth Bennet is in London as the guest of the Abernathys, whose daughter Arabella is her closest friend since childhood and whose family also owns Netherfield. A Twelfth Night masquerade ball leads to one badly timed encounter with a lord bent on compromising Elizabeth that lands her and Fitzwilliam Darcy at the centre of a fast-brewing scandal when he comes to the rescue. With their reputations on the line, Darcy steps forward with an offer of marriage, but Elizabeth, haunted by her parents’ unhappy forced history, has no wish to marry for the same reason.
Melanie Rachel’s strengths are on full display in this novel. It is a dialogue-rich story, with humour inserted at just the right moments and serious, necessary conversations that mark the budding relationship. This, along with a fabulous supporting cast—particularly the Abernathy and Fitzwilliam families—keeps the pace lively while still allowing the romance to build naturally. Except for the Bennet parents and Jane, the familiar Meryton characters are absent, with Mr. Bingley only meeting Jane in the closing chapter. They are not particularly missed. A delightful and heartwarming, family-oriented epilogue is included.
“I kept the slipper, married the scandal, ignored the lord, and never looked back.” —Darcy, quote from book
Oh, and by the bye: I adore a musical Darcy. His swoon worthy performance will melt your toes.
This is a story where wit and warmth work together to take the journey from reluctant betrothal and possible forced marriage to a partnership filled with love and mutual trust. The Slipper Scandal is another strong, entertaining addition to this favourite author’s collection. Highly recommended.
Audiobook - November 14-16, 2026
Another outstanding performance by Harry Frost. I am never disappointed. He most ably brought the humour of this story to life.
In The Slipper Scandal, Elizabeth Bennet is in London as the guest of the Abernathys, whose daughter Arabella is her closest friend since childhood and whose family also owns Netherfield. A Twelfth Night masquerade ball leads to one badly timed encounter with a lord bent on compromising Elizabeth that lands her and Fitzwilliam Darcy at the centre of a fast-brewing scandal when he comes to the rescue. With their reputations on the line, Darcy steps forward with an offer of marriage, but Elizabeth, haunted by her parents’ unhappy forced history, has no wish to marry for the same reason.
Melanie Rachel’s strengths are on full display in this novel. It is a dialogue-rich story, with humour inserted at just the right moments and serious, necessary conversations that mark the budding relationship. This, along with a fabulous supporting cast—particularly the Abernathy and Fitzwilliam families—keeps the pace lively while still allowing the romance to build naturally. Except for the Bennet parents and Jane, the familiar Meryton characters are absent, with Mr. Bingley only meeting Jane in the closing chapter. They are not particularly missed. A delightful and heartwarming, family-oriented epilogue is included.
“I kept the slipper, married the scandal, ignored the lord, and never looked back.” —Darcy, quote from book
Oh, and by the bye: I adore a musical Darcy. His swoon worthy performance will melt your toes.
This is a story where wit and warmth work together to take the journey from reluctant betrothal and possible forced marriage to a partnership filled with love and mutual trust. The Slipper Scandal is another strong, entertaining addition to this favourite author’s collection. Highly recommended.
Audiobook - November 14-16, 2026
Another outstanding performance by Harry Frost. I am never disappointed. He most ably brought the humour of this story to life.
November 18, 2025
I loved every other variation by this author, and I tried my best to stick this one out. I got all the way to . This book is very frustrating to those kinds of people who hate movies where everything that can go wrong, does go wrong. What I disliked most of all was Elizabeth's characterization. Absurdly stubborn, wishy washy, and constantly repetitive. I couldn't make it through the whole thing, which is a disappointment. Go check out the author's other books, this one isn't it.
August 19, 2025
Hmm
Well written story. A few funny parts. But I found myself getting exasperated with Elizabeth and her fears.
Spoiler Alert:
No Lady C, no Miss Bingley, no Collins, and no Wickham, so no conflicks.
Well written story. A few funny parts. But I found myself getting exasperated with Elizabeth and her fears.
Spoiler Alert:
No Lady C, no Miss Bingley, no Collins, and no Wickham, so no conflicks.
December 11, 2025
Melanie Rachel is an automatic read, and this one doesn't disappoint. Excellent variation!
January 24, 2026
Content:
Profanity: Mild. There were a few instances of D*** and iterations.
Violence: None.
Sexual: High mild. Talk of compromise and being 'unkempt' after meeting alone with member of the opposite sex. Insinuation of a woman ensnaring a man and being of loose morals (it's all said quite vaguely and properly for the regency era.) There are a few hand kisses, holding, etc. A kiss at the end that doesn't got into descriptive territory. A mention of looking forward to the wedding night, citing 'shivers', and intense looks shared.
Triggers: Features a married couple who are constantly fighting and hate each other, to the detriment of their children. A theme in this is being unable to trust that real love in marriage happens.
Melanie Rachel is one of the best JAFF writers I've come across so far. She's got great character arcs and the plots are always entertaining and fun, and this one was thought-provoking and had a great message about not letting fear drive you away from happiness.
I admit though, I don't really understand the whole slipper thing. The entire plot takes off because Elizabeth loses a slipper at a ball while running from a rake, and Mr. Darcy finds it, and while holding said slipper, they are found by a group of people and are 'compromised' by the ensuing gossip. That's a new way to be compromised that I'd never come across. Apparently shoes are scandalous. Who knew?
The story is endearing, and paced well (which I worry about with JAFF whenever a book is over 250 pages) with a slew of wonderful moments between Elizabeth and Darcy as they get to know one another. And a few nods to the original that made me smirk. "Can you imagine if we'd met in some small assembly in the country instead of London?" Hehehehe.
Mrs. Bennet is even more intensely shrill, overbearing, and oblivious in this, but not to the point where I was disbelieving. Rachel nailed Mrs. Bennet's character, she just intensified it enough to get a point across. The second-hand embarrassment was strong with me whenever Mrs. Bennet got screen time. Thankfully it wasn't much, or my enjoyment of the book would've been killed by her intense Mrs. Bennet-ness. The way that Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are portrayed is like every couple who seriously need a divorce in the movies. Fighting constantly, avoiding each other, totally opposite in every way, and destroying the peace of their innocent children.
I appreciated Mr. Darcy's character in this especially. His personality remains intact from how the original portrays him, which I appreciate. His family cracked me up. Milton especially was such a ham! Lord and Lady Matlock were fantastic in their support of their nephew and sons, and I loved seeing their family dynamic (and the notable and relieving absence of Lady Catherine). Watching that scene at the musicale when all of them strategized for Darcy was hilarious.
The romance was well done. It didn't feel rushed, and both Elizabeth and Darcy had true believable reservations and struggles to overcome. My favorite moments were when Darcy put his foot in his mouth though. And the fish. That scene was such a rom-com moment that I was snickering. The way they come together is lovely.
Great addition to the JAFF genre. I'm enjoying these Rom-Com style P&P variations.
Profanity: Mild. There were a few instances of D*** and iterations.
Violence: None.
Sexual: High mild. Talk of compromise and being 'unkempt' after meeting alone with member of the opposite sex. Insinuation of a woman ensnaring a man and being of loose morals (it's all said quite vaguely and properly for the regency era.) There are a few hand kisses, holding, etc. A kiss at the end that doesn't got into descriptive territory. A mention of looking forward to the wedding night, citing 'shivers', and intense looks shared.
Triggers: Features a married couple who are constantly fighting and hate each other, to the detriment of their children. A theme in this is being unable to trust that real love in marriage happens.
Melanie Rachel is one of the best JAFF writers I've come across so far. She's got great character arcs and the plots are always entertaining and fun, and this one was thought-provoking and had a great message about not letting fear drive you away from happiness.
I admit though, I don't really understand the whole slipper thing. The entire plot takes off because Elizabeth loses a slipper at a ball while running from a rake, and Mr. Darcy finds it, and while holding said slipper, they are found by a group of people and are 'compromised' by the ensuing gossip. That's a new way to be compromised that I'd never come across. Apparently shoes are scandalous. Who knew?
The story is endearing, and paced well (which I worry about with JAFF whenever a book is over 250 pages) with a slew of wonderful moments between Elizabeth and Darcy as they get to know one another. And a few nods to the original that made me smirk. "Can you imagine if we'd met in some small assembly in the country instead of London?" Hehehehe.
Mrs. Bennet is even more intensely shrill, overbearing, and oblivious in this, but not to the point where I was disbelieving. Rachel nailed Mrs. Bennet's character, she just intensified it enough to get a point across. The second-hand embarrassment was strong with me whenever Mrs. Bennet got screen time. Thankfully it wasn't much, or my enjoyment of the book would've been killed by her intense Mrs. Bennet-ness. The way that Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are portrayed is like every couple who seriously need a divorce in the movies. Fighting constantly, avoiding each other, totally opposite in every way, and destroying the peace of their innocent children.
I appreciated Mr. Darcy's character in this especially. His personality remains intact from how the original portrays him, which I appreciate. His family cracked me up. Milton especially was such a ham! Lord and Lady Matlock were fantastic in their support of their nephew and sons, and I loved seeing their family dynamic (and the notable and relieving absence of Lady Catherine). Watching that scene at the musicale when all of them strategized for Darcy was hilarious.
The romance was well done. It didn't feel rushed, and both Elizabeth and Darcy had true believable reservations and struggles to overcome. My favorite moments were when Darcy put his foot in his mouth though. And the fish. That scene was such a rom-com moment that I was snickering. The way they come together is lovely.
Great addition to the JAFF genre. I'm enjoying these Rom-Com style P&P variations.
July 14, 2025
“I simply realized that fear is a poor compass by which to navigate my life.” Elizabeth Bennet, Chapter 30.
Elizabeth is enjoying a season in town with her best friend, Arabella, and her parents the Abernathys. Her own family is in Derbyshire with the Gardiners so Elizabeth is enjoying being in London with her sophisticated friends. An unscrupulous lord, an inconveniently lost dancing slipper and an awkward discovery places Darcy and Elizabeth in the middle of a scandal at their first meeting. Darcy, as ever dutiful, announces their engagement in the middle of the ballroom much to Elizabeth’s horror.
Thus begins a rather angst ridden affair as Elizabeth does everything she can to cause Darcy to break the engagement. In the meantime Darcy has discovered that Elizabeth is probably the only woman who can make him happy, but she wants nothing to do with him despite his best, but inept, efforts. Thankfully there is comedy to break up the angst at different points. At one dinner Elizabeth manages to deliver a trout to Darcy’s lap, later to become a hilarious play on words from Mr Abernathy. My particular favorite is “The Trout Swims a Lap.” Chapter 6. The best comedy comes in the form of the Fitzwilliams, especially Viscount Milton, who are most anxious to help Darcy secure his hearts desire, with or without his agreement to their schemes.
Both Darcy and Elizabeth have lessons to learn. Darcy early reaches the conclusion that money simply can’t buy happiness. He later learns that if you love someone you must be prepared to give them their freedom. Elizabeth must learn that every marriage began in scandal does not end up like her parents’ marriage. She is so fearful that she nearly loses everything in her paralysis over making a decision.
As always, a well-edified and imaginative tale. More angst than I like in a rom-com but so beautifully told I couldn’t give less than full stars.
Elizabeth is enjoying a season in town with her best friend, Arabella, and her parents the Abernathys. Her own family is in Derbyshire with the Gardiners so Elizabeth is enjoying being in London with her sophisticated friends. An unscrupulous lord, an inconveniently lost dancing slipper and an awkward discovery places Darcy and Elizabeth in the middle of a scandal at their first meeting. Darcy, as ever dutiful, announces their engagement in the middle of the ballroom much to Elizabeth’s horror.
Thus begins a rather angst ridden affair as Elizabeth does everything she can to cause Darcy to break the engagement. In the meantime Darcy has discovered that Elizabeth is probably the only woman who can make him happy, but she wants nothing to do with him despite his best, but inept, efforts. Thankfully there is comedy to break up the angst at different points. At one dinner Elizabeth manages to deliver a trout to Darcy’s lap, later to become a hilarious play on words from Mr Abernathy. My particular favorite is “The Trout Swims a Lap.” Chapter 6. The best comedy comes in the form of the Fitzwilliams, especially Viscount Milton, who are most anxious to help Darcy secure his hearts desire, with or without his agreement to their schemes.
Both Darcy and Elizabeth have lessons to learn. Darcy early reaches the conclusion that money simply can’t buy happiness. He later learns that if you love someone you must be prepared to give them their freedom. Elizabeth must learn that every marriage began in scandal does not end up like her parents’ marriage. She is so fearful that she nearly loses everything in her paralysis over making a decision.
As always, a well-edified and imaginative tale. More angst than I like in a rom-com but so beautifully told I couldn’t give less than full stars.
July 1, 2025
This is my first Melanie Rachel book, and what a book!
I feel like most of the P&P variations I've been reading recently have just not cut it for me, and I don't know if this is because I'm too picky or something else, but as soon as I read the premise of this book I put my other P&P read on hold and started this one right away.
I usually don't enjoy variations that completely change the premise or ones that introduce a slew of new characters. This one did both, but the story works so well that I can't do anything but praise Ms. Rachel!
This is not your typical variation. A lot of the usual characters are either only mentioned or completely missing. The story mainly takes place in London, where Elizabeth is staying with old family friends, the Abernathy's. Darcy and Elizabeth are the main focus of the story. His family, the Fitzwilliam's and the Abernathy's play an important role in their journey to HEA. Both families have some hilarious moments in this story, especially Viscount Milton and Mr. Abernathy! And Darcy plays the violin! Can he be more perfect?!?!
Although I feel like Darcy was not completely true to his usual character, I didn’t mind it so much. He really focused on Elizabeth and why she feared marrying him in the circumstances they were in. I got a little annoyed at Elizabeth for her stubbornness, but the moment she finally realized she loved Darcy and was willing to choose a future with him was lovely.
Through out the book there were scenes that we hilarious, and other that were moving. Overall, I loved this variation so much I need to get an actual copy of it for my shelves!
Now, I need to go read some more Melanie Rachel's books!!
I feel like most of the P&P variations I've been reading recently have just not cut it for me, and I don't know if this is because I'm too picky or something else, but as soon as I read the premise of this book I put my other P&P read on hold and started this one right away.
I usually don't enjoy variations that completely change the premise or ones that introduce a slew of new characters. This one did both, but the story works so well that I can't do anything but praise Ms. Rachel!
This is not your typical variation. A lot of the usual characters are either only mentioned or completely missing. The story mainly takes place in London, where Elizabeth is staying with old family friends, the Abernathy's. Darcy and Elizabeth are the main focus of the story. His family, the Fitzwilliam's and the Abernathy's play an important role in their journey to HEA. Both families have some hilarious moments in this story, especially Viscount Milton and Mr. Abernathy! And Darcy plays the violin! Can he be more perfect?!?!
Although I feel like Darcy was not completely true to his usual character, I didn’t mind it so much. He really focused on Elizabeth and why she feared marrying him in the circumstances they were in. I got a little annoyed at Elizabeth for her stubbornness, but the moment she finally realized she loved Darcy and was willing to choose a future with him was lovely.
Through out the book there were scenes that we hilarious, and other that were moving. Overall, I loved this variation so much I need to get an actual copy of it for my shelves!
Now, I need to go read some more Melanie Rachel's books!!
July 4, 2025
Elizabeth loses a slipper in her flight from a rake at a Twelfth Night Ball in London. When Darcy gallantly rushes into the garden and finds her slipper, they are discovered in an apparent assignation. He is forced to declare an engagement, even though they have barely been introduced. Darcy quickly realizes that Elizabeth is extraordinary, and that he might just have been lucky it all happened the way it did. Elizabeth, on the other hand, frantically tries to find a way to end the engagement. She is terrified that a forced marriage will end in bitterness and resentment, as her parents' marriage has. Darcy does everything but stand on his head and sing La Marseillaise backwards to convince her to ignore her fears.
There are some very funny moments in the tale. This poor, frustrated Darcy is endearing and tenacious, as he suffers his family's interference and Elizabeth's doubts. She hangs onto her worries, in spite of reassurances from everyone but the Emperor of China. I have to admit to a little frustration there, although in fairness, it was a life-defining decision to make.
Sweet story, with great dialogue and no Wickham, Caroline, or Lady Catherine.
There are some very funny moments in the tale. This poor, frustrated Darcy is endearing and tenacious, as he suffers his family's interference and Elizabeth's doubts. She hangs onto her worries, in spite of reassurances from everyone but the Emperor of China. I have to admit to a little frustration there, although in fairness, it was a life-defining decision to make.
Sweet story, with great dialogue and no Wickham, Caroline, or Lady Catherine.
October 25, 2025
Compromise, fish jokes and falling in love
I first read this via KU and then got the audiobook when it came out.
4 1/2 rounded up but a smashing 5 stars for the fantastic audiobook. To me, audiobooks make a story even better, and this is another wonderful example of that.
Elizabeth is staying in London with her childhood best friend as her entire family is in the north with her aunt and uncle. Elizabeth & Arabella (whose parents love Elizabeth as their own) are even closer than Elizabeth and Jane.
Melanie Rachel takes us from a Twelfth Night masquerade with Darcy holding Elizabeth's slipper not giving it back immediately and being caught by others (yep, so scandalous) to Elizabeth causing a large fish to be dropped in Darcy's lap inciting the unrelenting fish jokes. I dare you not to laugh along!!
Elizabeth has some very deep-rooted fears of what marriage, especially when brought about by not by ones own choice. This Darcy is one who finally understands that fear and does everything to alleviate that for her.
This is another one of Melanie Rachel's books I will add to my permanent collection.
I first read this via KU and then got the audiobook when it came out.
4 1/2 rounded up but a smashing 5 stars for the fantastic audiobook. To me, audiobooks make a story even better, and this is another wonderful example of that.
Elizabeth is staying in London with her childhood best friend as her entire family is in the north with her aunt and uncle. Elizabeth & Arabella (whose parents love Elizabeth as their own) are even closer than Elizabeth and Jane.
Melanie Rachel takes us from a Twelfth Night masquerade with Darcy holding Elizabeth's slipper not giving it back immediately and being caught by others (yep, so scandalous) to Elizabeth causing a large fish to be dropped in Darcy's lap inciting the unrelenting fish jokes. I dare you not to laugh along!!
Elizabeth has some very deep-rooted fears of what marriage, especially when brought about by not by ones own choice. This Darcy is one who finally understands that fear and does everything to alleviate that for her.
This is another one of Melanie Rachel's books I will add to my permanent collection.
August 5, 2025
This one starts with Darcy and Elizabeth at a London masquerade, during which time E is accosted by an annoying, persistent loser and gossip. This leads to a de facto compromise and early engagement plot with D away from her family. I generally liked how the conflict was mostly interior and related to E's anxiety about repeating her parents' precipitate marriage and unhappiness. However, the last act was tedious, repetitive, and inorganic to me. There was too much of a romcom momentous confession-at-the-airport-trope feel to it. Like ODC had to go through all this performative conflict or theater in order to get to the final step. It was just so artificial and anti-climactic; the catharsis was ruined by too much talking about the same thing, too many cliches, too much staging of the "I love you." Even though I'm being negative in most of my review, the first 85% is great. The author's writing is good as always despite my plotting scruples.
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