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The Falmouth Connection: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Just as Mr. Darcy finally decides to propose to the enticing Miss Elizabeth Bennet, she is summoned to Falmouth, to meet a relation she never knew she had.
Thus, the ill-starred Hunsford proposal is avoided – but before he could even begin to understand his luck, adverse circumstances hasten to conspire against him, and Fitzwilliam Darcy is compelled to follow the woman he loves to the far reaches of Cornwall, into a world of deceit and peril where few – if any – are what they seem to be…
Thus, the ill-starred Hunsford proposal is avoided – but before he could even begin to understand his luck, adverse circumstances hasten to conspire against him, and Fitzwilliam Darcy is compelled to follow the woman he loves to the far reaches of Cornwall, into a world of deceit and peril where few – if any – are what they seem to be…
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2014
143 people are currently reading
298 people want to read
About the author
Joana Starnes
21 books247 followersJoana Starnes lives in the south of England with her family. She swapped several hats over the years – physician, lecturer, clinical data analyst – but feels most comfortable in a bonnet. She has been living in Georgian England for decades in her imagination, and plans to continue in that vein till she lays hands on a time machine. She loves to look for glimpses of Pemberley and Jane Austen’s world, and to write about Regency England and Mr Darcy falling in love with Elizabeth Bennet over and over and over again.
She is the author of ten Austen-inspired novels and a contributor to the Quill Ink Anthologies. Joana’s novels are all available on Amazon in Kindle Unlimited and in paperback, and some have also been released in Audible.
You can connect with Joana on: Goodreads ; Facebook ; Twitter ; Instagram ; Website and at Austen Variations or visit Joana’s Facebook page All Roads Lead to Pemberley for places and details that have inspired her novels.
She is the author of ten Austen-inspired novels and a contributor to the Quill Ink Anthologies. Joana’s novels are all available on Amazon in Kindle Unlimited and in paperback, and some have also been released in Audible.
You can connect with Joana on: Goodreads ; Facebook ; Twitter ; Instagram ; Website and at Austen Variations or visit Joana’s Facebook page All Roads Lead to Pemberley for places and details that have inspired her novels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
February 25, 2017
No spoilers here, just a dreamy sigh and a half-eaten bar of chocolate to testify to this amazing story. Joana never disappoints! Her romance is so delicious, her angst is so natural, and each word is so carefully chosen to leave the reader with shivers and pounding pulse. Never stop writing, because I need some more of this Darcy!
August 7, 2021
July 2017: I won an audible version of this favorite book and listened to it while at times reading along on my borrowed KU copy. I did note that there are revisions which in no way changed my loving everything about this book. The garden scene remains one of my favorite reads out of many books and I have read of many others agreeing with that opinion.
I have to say that this is a wonderful book, I have read the author's other books and while I enjoyed them, do believe that this one is her best. The prose is true to Jane Austen's time, the descriptions, both of setting and of points of views are so enthralling one wants to take one's time to read every word, to NOT rush nor skim over the pages in an effort to reach the end.
I don't want to type any spoilers but, as the book description states, this is a variation that picks up at Rosings & Hunsford and varies in that Darcy does reveal to Col. Fitzwilliam his intentions towards Elizabeth. As we proceed Darcy, as usual, gets some advice from Col. Fitzwilliam but that self-same person giving out the advice is also the one to apply a hatchet job to Darcy's plans unknowingly!
Providing transportation in his carriage for Elizabeth to meet up with her family on their way to Falmouth where the Bennets are to finally meet a long lost aunt of Mrs. Bennet's, Darcy finds time and again his attempts to propose are stifled by man, by weather, by circumstances and then by his learning of her true feelings during the journey and shortly after he follows them to that locale.
Joana Starnes' language and descriptions of Darcy's tangled and frustrated thought processes are captivating. I found myself with tears in my eyes with the bittersweet events, with the turns of discovery, with the fatal stab in his heart's emotions. And then Elizabeth has some discoveries of her own to make and not from a letter written after a refused proposal. I do not have a Face Book account so didn't get to see the photos of Cornwall posted there, which Dave mentioned, but my imagination did draw some vivid pictures from the words herein.
I highly recommend this book. An interview with the author along with a review posted on Austenesque Reviews made it clear that this is a book not to be missed by JAFF readers. A
I now own a paperback copy of this story.
I have to say that this is a wonderful book, I have read the author's other books and while I enjoyed them, do believe that this one is her best. The prose is true to Jane Austen's time, the descriptions, both of setting and of points of views are so enthralling one wants to take one's time to read every word, to NOT rush nor skim over the pages in an effort to reach the end.
I don't want to type any spoilers but, as the book description states, this is a variation that picks up at Rosings & Hunsford and varies in that Darcy does reveal to Col. Fitzwilliam his intentions towards Elizabeth. As we proceed Darcy, as usual, gets some advice from Col. Fitzwilliam but that self-same person giving out the advice is also the one to apply a hatchet job to Darcy's plans unknowingly!
Providing transportation in his carriage for Elizabeth to meet up with her family on their way to Falmouth where the Bennets are to finally meet a long lost aunt of Mrs. Bennet's, Darcy finds time and again his attempts to propose are stifled by man, by weather, by circumstances and then by his learning of her true feelings during the journey and shortly after he follows them to that locale.
Joana Starnes' language and descriptions of Darcy's tangled and frustrated thought processes are captivating. I found myself with tears in my eyes with the bittersweet events, with the turns of discovery, with the fatal stab in his heart's emotions. And then Elizabeth has some discoveries of her own to make and not from a letter written after a refused proposal. I do not have a Face Book account so didn't get to see the photos of Cornwall posted there, which Dave mentioned, but my imagination did draw some vivid pictures from the words herein.
I highly recommend this book. An interview with the author along with a review posted on Austenesque Reviews made it clear that this is a book not to be missed by JAFF readers. A
I now own a paperback copy of this story.
February 14, 2021
Compelling dialogue, swoon worthy Darcy and an intriguing foreboding atmosphere are all amongst this yarn's numerous virtues.
Fencing, Masquerades, Handsome Lords & terribly rich dying relatives, oh my!
Synopsis:
P&P has three main stomping grounds; Hertfordshire, Rosings, and Pemberley. Starnes disturbs the equilibrium of ODC by introducing them to an unfamiliar setting.
This deviation is launched in Rosings when Lizzy is summoned to meet up with her family en route to Falmouth to see a mysterious aunt of Mrs Bennet’s .
Darcy, haven’t had a chance to declare himself/ insult her, offers conveyance to the rendezvous point along with Col Fitz, who hasn’t had the chance to put his foot in it.
Colonel Fitz is made privy to Darcy’s salient talking points he intends to bring up in his proposal and is able to enlighten him how it would inevitably be received and chastise him for his less than stellar wooing
AMEN! Tell him, Fitz! I love it when characters in JAFF say to each other what I've been screaming at Austen's pages for years!
Ms. Starnes skillfully crafts a nook of respite for ODC, a brief period of calm amidst the storm of their tumultuous acquaintance. In the carriage devoid of light in early morning, the other senses must be relied on. An honesty is conveyed in disembodied voices.
Lizzy in that dark carriage got her clearest glimpse to who Darcy is. Darcy, free of Rosings and mind set on marriage, is free to court her openly. His sudden attentiveness shocks Lizzy as incongruous
This is one of the rare JAFFs in which Lizzy works out Darcy is in love with her before he declares himself, albeit she was provided with a significant assist from Lydia
Alas, naught gold can long stay, and just as hopeful this pocket of amiability shone, as tightly it inevitably collapses in on itself, as our dear well meaning Colonel can be relied on to let his mouth run on and the circumstances of Bingley’s departures are cruelly revealed, with poor Jane in the room!
Loose lips sink ships, Fitz! Some Colonel you must make!
Darcy’s earned goodwill evaporates and he is relegated back to her black books! Darcy realizing Col Fitz slip up decides he must set it to rights and follow her to Falmouth. Assumptions to the inferiority of her connections will lead to a delay in finding her!
Meanwhile Lizzy meets Mrs Pencarrow, the sister of her maternal grandmother.
She will reveal to Lizzy her motive for bequeathing the Bennet's with her fortune.
As if Lizzy hasn't already been living out our wildest fantasy in having Mr Darcy, she also lives out yet another common one; having an unknown, fabulously wealthy, dying relative who names you their heir. It’s like lighting striking twice!
It’s hard to watch others live out your dreams..
When Darcy finally arrives it is to a Lizzy who is mad, newly flu$h and has a handsome Lord suitor to boot! Darcy, who previous was all confidence to engaging her hand, now is realizing the precariousness of his courtship
To make matters worse Darcy will be bunking with Lord Trevellyan who has offered his hospitality- he insists due to the purported state of the Inns- I suspect it is more along the lines of;
Darcy:
When ole’ Wicky deigned to appear I groaned as is my wont to do whenever the SOB saunters in.
Not even the literal 'Lands End' was far enough to escape his knavery...
Will Darcy be able to set things to rights and convince Lizzy of his affections? Is Lord T to be trusted? What is Wickham doing lurking about?
Aye, there is much treachery brewing in Falmouth; plots and schemes are afoot!
Darcy notices there is something rotten in the state of Cornwall,
What Floated My Boat:
❀ Darcy is the perfect level of besotted: Soundly.
❀ Lydia low-key stole the show! MVP;
❀ Fascinating insight to Mrs Bennet’s mental deductive process
Yes, she has one! Will wonders never cease?
❀ Jealous Darcy!
❀ Masquerades are not utilized enough in JAFF and they always have me in a tizzy!
❀ Darcy facing trials like a knight to prove himself to his lady love
❀ Symbolism, use of setting altitude/depths, light/darkness and sense imagery
What Mildly Vexed Me:
➳ This concerns my personal taste, but the last 4 chapters were a bit of a drawn out epilogue and I find them tedious. A cute tedium to be sure- but a tedium nonetheless. Dulls the high of a story's resolution,
Verdict:
The JAFFs that most enthrall me are those that allow a deeper appreciation to Austen’s characters and driving forces- this is such a one. Starnes frames the irresistible magnetism between ODC as a call to the wild, something that is almost primitive yet more sacred for it.
The use of sensory imagery conveys their attraction is beyond merely reasoning and counting virtues, it is instinct and the stages of Lizzy coming to understand Darcy through the five senses;.
The removal of masks at masquerade and use of darkness to conceal the physical but reveal the imperative represents seeing past societal demands & it’s false adornments for Darcy, and for Lizzy seeing past Darcy’s mask and her own prejudice, realizing he is what she is looking for.
Needless to say the quality of the writing in terms of imagery, allusions, symbolism and atmosphere is one not always found in JAFF. I shouldn't be so surprised, Joana Starnes works always leave me impressed and staggered after completing them. My sincere compliments to the master, Ms Starnes!
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?Indeed
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?Did not sleep!
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? Yes!
Fencing, Masquerades, Handsome Lords & terribly rich dying relatives, oh my!
Synopsis:
P&P has three main stomping grounds; Hertfordshire, Rosings, and Pemberley. Starnes disturbs the equilibrium of ODC by introducing them to an unfamiliar setting.
This deviation is launched in Rosings when Lizzy is summoned to meet up with her family en route to Falmouth to see a mysterious aunt of Mrs Bennet’s .
Darcy, haven’t had a chance to declare himself/ insult her, offers conveyance to the rendezvous point along with Col Fitz, who hasn’t had the chance to put his foot in it.
Colonel Fitz is made privy to Darcy’s salient talking points he intends to bring up in his proposal and is able to enlighten him how it would inevitably be received and chastise him for his less than stellar wooing
“So you have stood tongue-tied throughout. I thought as much. Thank goodness you are handsome, Darcy, and a man of means,”
“She would not accept me for either of those reasons.”
“What for, then? Your cheerful and easy conversation? Your smooth ability to please?
AMEN! Tell him, Fitz! I love it when characters in JAFF say to each other what I've been screaming at Austen's pages for years!
Ms. Starnes skillfully crafts a nook of respite for ODC, a brief period of calm amidst the storm of their tumultuous acquaintance. In the carriage devoid of light in early morning, the other senses must be relied on. An honesty is conveyed in disembodied voices.
“It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.”- Le Petit Prince
Lizzy in that dark carriage got her clearest glimpse to who Darcy is. Darcy, free of Rosings and mind set on marriage, is free to court her openly. His sudden attentiveness shocks Lizzy as incongruous
“It required a great deal of effort for her to remember her manners and not stare at such a disproval of the image she had formed of him, especially as it was plain to see from the colonel’s lack of surprise at his cousin’s demeanour that to him this Mr Darcy was the norm, rather than the solemn, reserved version she had come to know.’
This is one of the rare JAFFs in which Lizzy works out Darcy is in love with her before he declares himself, albeit she was provided with a significant assist from Lydia
“Come, Lizzy, do tell. You spent a whole day in his carriage, surely you have something to impart. Did he hold your hand? Did he ask for a private interview? Did he flirt?"
Alas, naught gold can long stay, and just as hopeful this pocket of amiability shone, as tightly it inevitably collapses in on itself, as our dear well meaning Colonel can be relied on to let his mouth run on and the circumstances of Bingley’s departures are cruelly revealed, with poor Jane in the room!
Loose lips sink ships, Fitz! Some Colonel you must make!
Darcy’s earned goodwill evaporates and he is relegated back to her black books! Darcy realizing Col Fitz slip up decides he must set it to rights and follow her to Falmouth. Assumptions to the inferiority of her connections will lead to a delay in finding her!
Meanwhile Lizzy meets Mrs Pencarrow, the sister of her maternal grandmother.
She will reveal to Lizzy her motive for bequeathing the Bennet's with her fortune.
As if Lizzy hasn't already been living out our wildest fantasy in having Mr Darcy, she also lives out yet another common one; having an unknown, fabulously wealthy, dying relative who names you their heir. It’s like lighting striking twice!
It’s hard to watch others live out your dreams..
When Darcy finally arrives it is to a Lizzy who is mad, newly flu$h and has a handsome Lord suitor to boot! Darcy, who previous was all confidence to engaging her hand, now is realizing the precariousness of his courtship
To make matters worse Darcy will be bunking with Lord Trevellyan who has offered his hospitality- he insists due to the purported state of the Inns- I suspect it is more along the lines of;
'Keep your friends close and your romantic rivals closer!'
Darcy:
When ole’ Wicky deigned to appear I groaned as is my wont to do whenever the SOB saunters in.
Not even the literal 'Lands End' was far enough to escape his knavery...
Will Darcy be able to set things to rights and convince Lizzy of his affections? Is Lord T to be trusted? What is Wickham doing lurking about?
Aye, there is much treachery brewing in Falmouth; plots and schemes are afoot!
Darcy notices there is something rotten in the state of Cornwall,
“What hornets’ nest was this, or rather nest of vipers?”
What Floated My Boat:
❀ Darcy is the perfect level of besotted: Soundly.
“Mr Darcy! You used to be so civil and so very proper.”
“I used to be all manner of awful things before I met you”
❀ Lydia low-key stole the show! MVP;
“But no one ever speaks of matters of consequence,” Lydia burst out in great frustration. “Everybody beats about the bush and nothing is settled – can you not see it? Should not Mr Darcy tell his friend that Jane has been pining for him?”
❀ Fascinating insight to Mrs Bennet’s mental deductive process
Yes, she has one! Will wonders never cease?
❀ Jealous Darcy!
❀ Masquerades are not utilized enough in JAFF and they always have me in a tizzy!
❀ Darcy facing trials like a knight to prove himself to his lady love
❀ Symbolism, use of setting altitude/depths, light/darkness and sense imagery
What Mildly Vexed Me:
➳ This concerns my personal taste, but the last 4 chapters were a bit of a drawn out epilogue and I find them tedious. A cute tedium to be sure- but a tedium nonetheless. Dulls the high of a story's resolution,
Verdict:
The JAFFs that most enthrall me are those that allow a deeper appreciation to Austen’s characters and driving forces- this is such a one. Starnes frames the irresistible magnetism between ODC as a call to the wild, something that is almost primitive yet more sacred for it.
‘..tasting life as it must have been before so-called civilisation had put its stamp upon it, to adulterate it into something tame and bland. A man, a woman, before the open world in all its glory, answering to no one – just the call of the sea.’
The use of sensory imagery conveys their attraction is beyond merely reasoning and counting virtues, it is instinct and the stages of Lizzy coming to understand Darcy through the five senses;.
The removal of masks at masquerade and use of darkness to conceal the physical but reveal the imperative represents seeing past societal demands & it’s false adornments for Darcy, and for Lizzy seeing past Darcy’s mask and her own prejudice, realizing he is what she is looking for.
"This was paradise – the right man, the right woman. This was everything, and he had not seen it."
Needless to say the quality of the writing in terms of imagery, allusions, symbolism and atmosphere is one not always found in JAFF. I shouldn't be so surprised, Joana Starnes works always leave me impressed and staggered after completing them. My sincere compliments to the master, Ms Starnes!
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?Indeed
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?Did not sleep!
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? Yes!
December 29, 2015
Another fabulous P&P variation!!!
First things first... JAFF lovers can't go wrong reading a book by Joana Starnes. Now that I have finished her fourth, and final book, for now, I can confidently write that her work belongs to a class of well-written, beautifully crafted stories that are humorous, engaging and ever so romantic!! This is top-tier JAFF!!!
Secondly, the way she twists and turns ODC's fates in a book of pretty substantial length, is nothing short of genius. The dialogue, the misunderstandings, the unique plots and the great settings in England selected for her stories, all contribute to the wonderful stories she weaves together.
Lastly, the characters in her books stay so true to canon. From one book to another, her P&P characters feel true to Austen's intent. Lydia in this book is a bit of a redeemed character, but it's done gradually and with great outcomes. Her keen and bold assertions initially help Elizabeth realize Darcy's love and esteem for her, even though these feelings are shown, of course, in true Darcy fashion. The scene at the inn, where Lydia describes what a man in love acts like will be a long-time favorite of mine.
Now that I have a rainy Sunday ahead of me, I dread not having another Starnes JAFF title to have and to hold throughout this day... But when her new book comes out this fall, I will download it on my Kindle the minute it's published!
First things first... JAFF lovers can't go wrong reading a book by Joana Starnes. Now that I have finished her fourth, and final book, for now, I can confidently write that her work belongs to a class of well-written, beautifully crafted stories that are humorous, engaging and ever so romantic!! This is top-tier JAFF!!!
Secondly, the way she twists and turns ODC's fates in a book of pretty substantial length, is nothing short of genius. The dialogue, the misunderstandings, the unique plots and the great settings in England selected for her stories, all contribute to the wonderful stories she weaves together.
Lastly, the characters in her books stay so true to canon. From one book to another, her P&P characters feel true to Austen's intent. Lydia in this book is a bit of a redeemed character, but it's done gradually and with great outcomes. Her keen and bold assertions initially help Elizabeth realize Darcy's love and esteem for her, even though these feelings are shown, of course, in true Darcy fashion. The scene at the inn, where Lydia describes what a man in love acts like will be a long-time favorite of mine.
Now that I have a rainy Sunday ahead of me, I dread not having another Starnes JAFF title to have and to hold throughout this day... But when her new book comes out this fall, I will download it on my Kindle the minute it's published!
April 26, 2016
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
The Falmouth Connection is a breath-taking love story that begins with Darcy's visit to the Hunsford Parsonage a few days before he intends to propose to Elizabeth.
During this visit, Mr. Darcy discovers Elizabeth is to leave Kent the next day to join her family in Cornwall, and visit a mysterious great aunt. He offers to assist Elizabeth in her travel, and Col. Fitzwilliam, finding this strange, is able to get Darcy to admit he intends to ask for Miss Elizabeth's hand. It is during this confession that Col. Fitzwilliam discovers how Darcy could ruin everything if he were to propose with his current mind set, and tries to make him see how Elizabeth would react to such a proposal. I liked this turn of events as it prevented Mr. Darcy from ruining his proposal without changing him in essentials.
Elizabeth agrees to travel with Mr. Darcy and Col. Fitzwilliam and during the carriage ride she is able to see, for the first time, multitude facets of Mr. Darcy, which is something I always find delightful. I love to read a book that allows me to understand how, why and when Elizabeth started to change her mind about Mr. Darcy. For me, as a reader, it is important to know why she loves him or to see her fall in love with him, and that is something we encounter in The Falmouth Connection.
After their voyage, they arrive at Basingstoke to meet with the Bennet family, and Elizabeth finally realizes Mr. Darcy loves her and will most likely propose to her. I must tell you that this scene is one of the best moments I have ever read! I loved every single moment of it; from thinking exactly what Mrs. Starnes wrote, to laughing out loud at the third “good heavens”!
Seeing Elizabeth relieve every moment she shared with Mr. Darcy in a different perspective, and seeing her realize everything that was right in front of her eyes all along, was marvellous. I also loved the chemistry and intimacy of their last scene at the inn in Basingstoke, it is one of those I will hardly forget.
But of course it is too soon for our beloved characters to find their HEA and Elizabeth leaves to Falmouth. Mr. Darcy is so passionately in love with her that he decides to follow her to Cornwall, and it is in this part of the country that we will find romance, broken hearts, a rival for Mr. Darcy, but also adventure, suspense and mystery.
Mrs. Starnes takes this plot into a whole different stage and creates an innovative different story that completely deviates from the original but that keeps the characters as truthful to themselves as Jane Austen wrote them. The book is chaste and clean but overly romantic and emotional with a depth that can only be found in Mrs. Starnes books.
The Falmouth Connection is very focused in Darcy and Elizabeth which is also something I truly love in a book, but some of the other characters were exceptionally written as well.
I don't think I have enjoyed a scene with Mrs. Bennett so much as the one Joana Starnes wrote on the day Mr. Darcy paid his first visit. I loved reading everything about it. Mrs. Bennett’s reaction to the first unexpected visit was fun to read, but adding the second unexpected visit was brilliant. In this passage we will see Mrs. Bennet’s perspective, and being in her head and seeing the way she constructed her thoughts on the eligibility of her daughters, to see how she contrived the idea that it was Lizzy that would suit Mr. Darcy, and to see that she would aid in their reconcile was absolutely wonderful.
The way this character was described in this scene made me love her for everything that she was, and to have her prattle knowing she was doing so out of an inability to entertain a gentleman such as Mr. Darcy, was magnificent.
The scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth are electrical. Joana Starnes surely knows how to transmit their chemistry into the pages of her novels, and this was no exception. Between the encounter in Landennis, the meetings at the cove and the balls, I wouldn’t know how to choose my favourite moment. In fact, this review was one of the hardest I have had to write because there were too many things I wanted to talk about, and I ended up cutting many paragraphs because the review was getting too long.
I’m looking forward to read Mrs. Starnes next book as I am certain it will be just as good. Joana Starnes is, in my opinion, one of those writers with an innate talent who just cannot get it wrong, her books are always a turmoil of emotions and a pleasure to read, with something that is definitely an added value: a quality writing that is hard to see nowadays.
The Falmouth Connection did not disappoint and I recommend it to any reader looking for a quality book to read.
The Falmouth Connection is a breath-taking love story that begins with Darcy's visit to the Hunsford Parsonage a few days before he intends to propose to Elizabeth.
During this visit, Mr. Darcy discovers Elizabeth is to leave Kent the next day to join her family in Cornwall, and visit a mysterious great aunt. He offers to assist Elizabeth in her travel, and Col. Fitzwilliam, finding this strange, is able to get Darcy to admit he intends to ask for Miss Elizabeth's hand. It is during this confession that Col. Fitzwilliam discovers how Darcy could ruin everything if he were to propose with his current mind set, and tries to make him see how Elizabeth would react to such a proposal. I liked this turn of events as it prevented Mr. Darcy from ruining his proposal without changing him in essentials.
Elizabeth agrees to travel with Mr. Darcy and Col. Fitzwilliam and during the carriage ride she is able to see, for the first time, multitude facets of Mr. Darcy, which is something I always find delightful. I love to read a book that allows me to understand how, why and when Elizabeth started to change her mind about Mr. Darcy. For me, as a reader, it is important to know why she loves him or to see her fall in love with him, and that is something we encounter in The Falmouth Connection.
After their voyage, they arrive at Basingstoke to meet with the Bennet family, and Elizabeth finally realizes Mr. Darcy loves her and will most likely propose to her. I must tell you that this scene is one of the best moments I have ever read! I loved every single moment of it; from thinking exactly what Mrs. Starnes wrote, to laughing out loud at the third “good heavens”!
Seeing Elizabeth relieve every moment she shared with Mr. Darcy in a different perspective, and seeing her realize everything that was right in front of her eyes all along, was marvellous. I also loved the chemistry and intimacy of their last scene at the inn in Basingstoke, it is one of those I will hardly forget.
But of course it is too soon for our beloved characters to find their HEA and Elizabeth leaves to Falmouth. Mr. Darcy is so passionately in love with her that he decides to follow her to Cornwall, and it is in this part of the country that we will find romance, broken hearts, a rival for Mr. Darcy, but also adventure, suspense and mystery.
Mrs. Starnes takes this plot into a whole different stage and creates an innovative different story that completely deviates from the original but that keeps the characters as truthful to themselves as Jane Austen wrote them. The book is chaste and clean but overly romantic and emotional with a depth that can only be found in Mrs. Starnes books.
The Falmouth Connection is very focused in Darcy and Elizabeth which is also something I truly love in a book, but some of the other characters were exceptionally written as well.
I don't think I have enjoyed a scene with Mrs. Bennett so much as the one Joana Starnes wrote on the day Mr. Darcy paid his first visit. I loved reading everything about it. Mrs. Bennett’s reaction to the first unexpected visit was fun to read, but adding the second unexpected visit was brilliant. In this passage we will see Mrs. Bennet’s perspective, and being in her head and seeing the way she constructed her thoughts on the eligibility of her daughters, to see how she contrived the idea that it was Lizzy that would suit Mr. Darcy, and to see that she would aid in their reconcile was absolutely wonderful.
The way this character was described in this scene made me love her for everything that she was, and to have her prattle knowing she was doing so out of an inability to entertain a gentleman such as Mr. Darcy, was magnificent.
The scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth are electrical. Joana Starnes surely knows how to transmit their chemistry into the pages of her novels, and this was no exception. Between the encounter in Landennis, the meetings at the cove and the balls, I wouldn’t know how to choose my favourite moment. In fact, this review was one of the hardest I have had to write because there were too many things I wanted to talk about, and I ended up cutting many paragraphs because the review was getting too long.
I’m looking forward to read Mrs. Starnes next book as I am certain it will be just as good. Joana Starnes is, in my opinion, one of those writers with an innate talent who just cannot get it wrong, her books are always a turmoil of emotions and a pleasure to read, with something that is definitely an added value: a quality writing that is hard to see nowadays.
The Falmouth Connection did not disappoint and I recommend it to any reader looking for a quality book to read.
October 3, 2017
Audiobook-narrated by Stevie Zimmerman.
Dear Reader,
This was simply a wonderful rendition of this story,narrated by the multi talented Stevie Zimmerman.
We are privy to the inner voice of a selfishly self assured and arrogant Darcy, condescendingly attempting to gain a moment with Ms Bennet to hear the affirmative fait accompli she'll undoubtedly respond with,on hearing his proposal.
Lizzy,preoccupied with her departure and journey to Cornwall,is unable to properly sketch his character,such varying sides of his personality does he display.
But,all is not as it seems in the beautiful Cornish setting and a turbulence of minds, emotions and expectations play out to an audience of traitors,fiends and ne'er do wells!!
Peppered both with angst and heart stoppingly romantic interludes,this Cornish adventure-filled tale is one that must be read and listened to,in order to fully appreciate the depths of raw emotion,grief,fear,tension, heartache and yes,love!
A fantastic story in its own right,Stevie's narration transforms it to a higher plain. Listening to her transition from the deep,somber,earnest and quite often desperate tones of Mr Darcy,to the delightful light and oft times serious,self questioning Lizzy,from the airy and quite insightful Lydia to the solemn Lord Trevelyan,one would be forgiven for thinking a number of people voiced these wonderful characters instead of the distinctive and remarkable Stevie Zimmerman.
Well done to both Joana and Stevie for such a satisfying and enjoyable audiobook experience! ☺️
I was lucky enough to win this audiobook on Janet's blog Moreagreeablyengaged. Thank you for such a special prize!
***************************************
Paperback edition.
I have read a wealth of pride & prejudice variations over the last 6 months but this book is definitely one of the BEST !!
Starnes shows us the vulnerable Darcy - from seeing him being overly confident of being accepted by Lizzy to the crushing realisation that all his previous hopes and dreams have been for nought. We witness his love, desire and arrogance mirrored against his utter heartbreak when he realises that she just doesn't love him.
This being a p&p variation, we do get our HEA but we must wait for Starnes to weave her tale of anguish and uncertainty.
This book is compulsive reading - a fantastic page turner. It pulls at the heart strings and makes the reader sigh and alternatively shout "oh no!" in parts. A beautifully written book, I highly recommend it.
Dear Reader,
This was simply a wonderful rendition of this story,narrated by the multi talented Stevie Zimmerman.
We are privy to the inner voice of a selfishly self assured and arrogant Darcy, condescendingly attempting to gain a moment with Ms Bennet to hear the affirmative fait accompli she'll undoubtedly respond with,on hearing his proposal.
Lizzy,preoccupied with her departure and journey to Cornwall,is unable to properly sketch his character,such varying sides of his personality does he display.
But,all is not as it seems in the beautiful Cornish setting and a turbulence of minds, emotions and expectations play out to an audience of traitors,fiends and ne'er do wells!!
Peppered both with angst and heart stoppingly romantic interludes,this Cornish adventure-filled tale is one that must be read and listened to,in order to fully appreciate the depths of raw emotion,grief,fear,tension, heartache and yes,love!
A fantastic story in its own right,Stevie's narration transforms it to a higher plain. Listening to her transition from the deep,somber,earnest and quite often desperate tones of Mr Darcy,to the delightful light and oft times serious,self questioning Lizzy,from the airy and quite insightful Lydia to the solemn Lord Trevelyan,one would be forgiven for thinking a number of people voiced these wonderful characters instead of the distinctive and remarkable Stevie Zimmerman.
Well done to both Joana and Stevie for such a satisfying and enjoyable audiobook experience! ☺️
I was lucky enough to win this audiobook on Janet's blog Moreagreeablyengaged. Thank you for such a special prize!
***************************************
Paperback edition.
I have read a wealth of pride & prejudice variations over the last 6 months but this book is definitely one of the BEST !!
Starnes shows us the vulnerable Darcy - from seeing him being overly confident of being accepted by Lizzy to the crushing realisation that all his previous hopes and dreams have been for nought. We witness his love, desire and arrogance mirrored against his utter heartbreak when he realises that she just doesn't love him.
This being a p&p variation, we do get our HEA but we must wait for Starnes to weave her tale of anguish and uncertainty.
This book is compulsive reading - a fantastic page turner. It pulls at the heart strings and makes the reader sigh and alternatively shout "oh no!" in parts. A beautifully written book, I highly recommend it.
July 12, 2017
Audiobook Review
Timely advice, a trip into Cornwall, a rival, secret goings on, and unrequited love lead to a sweet romantic adventure in this Pride & Prejudice variation tale.
I had a good time with this story from first to last. It engaged all my emotions it seemed. I was amused by a series of blunders and mishaps, saddened by the unrequited love and heartbreak moments, and sighed with pleasure over the romantic scenes. The hero, Darcy, really blunders and struggles in the beginning. He's so cocksure and arrogant. I enjoyed how the author showed his flaws and strengths and gave him some good growth moments. The heroine, Elizabeth, has her own personal epiphany, too. Seeing them work through so much really had me rooting for them. The rival part was an interesting development. I think how this played out involved my only niggle about the story.
I enjoyed the bit of intrigue and adventure next to the romance part which suited the Cornwall setting where things are not what they seem. The big climax was built up to and worth it coming back to back with the turning point in the romance and other story threads. The denouement came down slowly which was good so things could be settled and understood. I was startled by a few of the minor characters' story lines, but not in a bad way. Elizabeth's little sister Lydia was a surprise. There is an interesting finish for her that I'm still not sure how I feel about it because it was a twist that I didn't see coming.
I experienced The Falmouth Connection in the audio format. Stevie Zimmerman was a fantastic match for this story. She caught the tone, pace, and the characters so well. The dialogue between characters was particularly well done.
All in all, this variation of a classic took things on a fun romantic suspense style adventure. I think those with some familiarity of Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice will get the most out of the story since it assumes the reader knows a bit of what came before the beginning of this story. I enjoy each new outing with the author's works and will definitely be going back for more. I would recommend this to sweet historical romance fans and/or those who enjoy classical story retellings.
Timely advice, a trip into Cornwall, a rival, secret goings on, and unrequited love lead to a sweet romantic adventure in this Pride & Prejudice variation tale.
I had a good time with this story from first to last. It engaged all my emotions it seemed. I was amused by a series of blunders and mishaps, saddened by the unrequited love and heartbreak moments, and sighed with pleasure over the romantic scenes. The hero, Darcy, really blunders and struggles in the beginning. He's so cocksure and arrogant. I enjoyed how the author showed his flaws and strengths and gave him some good growth moments. The heroine, Elizabeth, has her own personal epiphany, too. Seeing them work through so much really had me rooting for them. The rival part was an interesting development. I think how this played out involved my only niggle about the story.
I enjoyed the bit of intrigue and adventure next to the romance part which suited the Cornwall setting where things are not what they seem. The big climax was built up to and worth it coming back to back with the turning point in the romance and other story threads. The denouement came down slowly which was good so things could be settled and understood. I was startled by a few of the minor characters' story lines, but not in a bad way. Elizabeth's little sister Lydia was a surprise. There is an interesting finish for her that I'm still not sure how I feel about it because it was a twist that I didn't see coming.
I experienced The Falmouth Connection in the audio format. Stevie Zimmerman was a fantastic match for this story. She caught the tone, pace, and the characters so well. The dialogue between characters was particularly well done.
All in all, this variation of a classic took things on a fun romantic suspense style adventure. I think those with some familiarity of Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice will get the most out of the story since it assumes the reader knows a bit of what came before the beginning of this story. I enjoy each new outing with the author's works and will definitely be going back for more. I would recommend this to sweet historical romance fans and/or those who enjoy classical story retellings.
December 12, 2014
Poor Darcy, he receives so many depressing blows in this Pride and Prejudice variation! First, the day before he plans to propose and secure his future happiness, Elizabeth is called away to meet a distant relation in Falmouth. Then when he decides to propose anyway, he is prevented by all sorts of interferences – Mr. Collins, Colonel Fitzwilliam, inclement weather, etc. And then…when Elizabeth seems like she might welcome a visit and proposal from Darcy in the future, the very next day brings about a whole different attitude in her. Why is she upset and standoffish with Darcy?
When poor Mr. Darcy learns the reason why, he hightails it to Falmouth to set things right, but he has a lot going against him – trying to fine Elizabeth’s aunt’s home without having the address, a newly bestowed inheritance, and a worthy, wealthy, and titled rival who has in the span of a few short weeks earned Elizabeth’s respect and possibly her regard…Suddenly all the wonderful things Mr. Darcy has to offer and give Elizabeth don’t seem as valuable or magnanimous as what she already has…
How I LOVE Joana Starnes’s portrayal of Mr. Darcy! Without a doubt, her depiction of a feeling, privately emotive, and intensely passionate Mr. Darcy is quickly becoming one of my favorites. The way Ms. Starnes expressively denotes every myriad of feeling and thought of Mr. Darcy is to be commended. (I think she takes delight in torturing him!) Mr. Darcy’s anguish, sorrow, hope, and yearning can not but be tangibly felt by the reader. As I read this novel, my eyes were stinging with unshed tears and I could feel my own heart swell with sympathy and love for Darcy’s pent-up emotions and suffering. Ahh, so romantic! Such palpable and evocative prose!
Besides her swoon-worthy and ardent Darcy the other aspect I most enjoy with Joana Starnes’s writing is the originative and varied alterations she creates with these characters. Tired of reading similar variations about Darcy’s unsuccessful first proposal in Hunsford Parsonage or Lydia causing trouble just as Darcy and Elizabeth are about to reach an understanding? Try a variation by Joana Starnes – she adeptly invents new thoughtful premises and scenarios for our dear couple. With The Falmouth Connection, I especially enjoyed the visit to Cornwall and new characters she introduced. These new characters were well-drawn and interesting, and the scenery around Cornwall so vividly and breathtakingly described.
If I was in the mood to be persnickety, (which I know I can be sometimes) I might say that seeing more about the smugglers and their activities would have been interesting. This sinister gang of nefarious individuals were a great deal overshadowed by Darcy’s emotional upheaval and internal struggles. But in truth, I really have no cause to repine...I think Ms. Starnes employed her page time much better. ;)
Brooding, fervent, persevering, frustrated, protective, and brave – Ms. Starnes’s depiction of Darcy in this novel is everything that is admirable and worthy, proving that Mr. Darcy is indeed the penultimate romantic hero! But readers must be warned to prepare their hearts before they read this,novel because not only does Darcy steal tempting kisses in the night, but he also valiantly and capably brandishes a sword to safeguard his beloved Elizabeth… *faints away in a swoon* <3
I can hardly wait to see what Joana Starnes does with Mr. Darcy next! Like Ms. Starnes’s previous Pride and Prejudice variations, The Falmouth Connection is exquisitely and expressively written, and most certainly not to be missed!
When poor Mr. Darcy learns the reason why, he hightails it to Falmouth to set things right, but he has a lot going against him – trying to fine Elizabeth’s aunt’s home without having the address, a newly bestowed inheritance, and a worthy, wealthy, and titled rival who has in the span of a few short weeks earned Elizabeth’s respect and possibly her regard…Suddenly all the wonderful things Mr. Darcy has to offer and give Elizabeth don’t seem as valuable or magnanimous as what she already has…
How I LOVE Joana Starnes’s portrayal of Mr. Darcy! Without a doubt, her depiction of a feeling, privately emotive, and intensely passionate Mr. Darcy is quickly becoming one of my favorites. The way Ms. Starnes expressively denotes every myriad of feeling and thought of Mr. Darcy is to be commended. (I think she takes delight in torturing him!) Mr. Darcy’s anguish, sorrow, hope, and yearning can not but be tangibly felt by the reader. As I read this novel, my eyes were stinging with unshed tears and I could feel my own heart swell with sympathy and love for Darcy’s pent-up emotions and suffering. Ahh, so romantic! Such palpable and evocative prose!
Besides her swoon-worthy and ardent Darcy the other aspect I most enjoy with Joana Starnes’s writing is the originative and varied alterations she creates with these characters. Tired of reading similar variations about Darcy’s unsuccessful first proposal in Hunsford Parsonage or Lydia causing trouble just as Darcy and Elizabeth are about to reach an understanding? Try a variation by Joana Starnes – she adeptly invents new thoughtful premises and scenarios for our dear couple. With The Falmouth Connection, I especially enjoyed the visit to Cornwall and new characters she introduced. These new characters were well-drawn and interesting, and the scenery around Cornwall so vividly and breathtakingly described.
If I was in the mood to be persnickety, (which I know I can be sometimes) I might say that seeing more about the smugglers and their activities would have been interesting. This sinister gang of nefarious individuals were a great deal overshadowed by Darcy’s emotional upheaval and internal struggles. But in truth, I really have no cause to repine...I think Ms. Starnes employed her page time much better. ;)
Brooding, fervent, persevering, frustrated, protective, and brave – Ms. Starnes’s depiction of Darcy in this novel is everything that is admirable and worthy, proving that Mr. Darcy is indeed the penultimate romantic hero! But readers must be warned to prepare their hearts before they read this,novel because not only does Darcy steal tempting kisses in the night, but he also valiantly and capably brandishes a sword to safeguard his beloved Elizabeth… *faints away in a swoon* <3
I can hardly wait to see what Joana Starnes does with Mr. Darcy next! Like Ms. Starnes’s previous Pride and Prejudice variations, The Falmouth Connection is exquisitely and expressively written, and most certainly not to be missed!
June 19, 2016
Dark, sinister, blood curdling scream in the night 4.5 stars.
This was a roller-coaster from beginning to end. Darcy experienced every emotion known to man. From total exhilaration, when he thought Elizabeth returned his love, to abject despair when he realized she didn’t. My heart was broken along with his as he walked away from Elizabeth thinking it was for the last time. At one point I had to put the book down because I needed a respite from the grief and despair.
This JAFF was so different in tone and feel that I didn’t want to put it down; however, I had to eat and sleep. Joana Starnes knows how to wring out the very last emotion you have in your arsenal and then she digs deeper still.
The financial security of the Bennet family took a sudden change for the better from a distant relative on Mrs. Bennet’s side of the family. Mrs. Pencarrow was her mother’s sister and therefore, her aunt. She being a wealthy widow with no children, informed Mr. and Mrs. Bennet that she had bestowed on each of their daughters a dowry substantial enough to secure their futures. She then informed them that her estate was being left to Elizabeth. Her reasons were revealed in a back story that she told only to Elizabeth. Her wealth was explained as Starnes introduced historical facts relating to mining and industry and the financial benefits of an earlier time.
Financial security for their daughters calmed a nervous Mrs. Bennet immensely as she thought of future suitors. And it calmed Mr. Bennet as he realized it would NOT be available to Mr. Collins as part of the entail. He then took a long hard look at his life and how he had neglected his family.
There was a dark and sinister thread that ran throughout this story. You knew something was coming and you didn’t know from what direction it would spring forth. When Wickham arrived you knew dark and dangerous deeds would be the result of his presence. I loved the duel and how it came about. Starnes was a master at building tension in the story, whether sinister, sexual, emotional or joyful. I was a wreck as I read through the tension.
Having said that…I think the story began to fall apart as it built toward the climax. It became confusing and was a bit anticlimactic as the story unfolded. There were so many threads running at the same time that it felt rushed and didn’t fully develop as the climax approached.
I realize the story was the POV of ODC. Since a lot of the climax happened off sight…the only way we could know what happened was a simple retelling. I suppose it had to be that way. ODC was not present to see the action, so couldn’t give their perspective. To be in anyone else’s head would have exposed too much before the final reveal. Starnes only told us what we needed to know at that time. Brilliant!
Lord Trevellyan was an enigma. I could not decide whether to like or dislike him. There was something about him that gave me pause and I had a dreadful feeling about him. Starnes worked such a twist with him and those around him that I kept waiting for the ax to fall at any moment. Sometimes things are simply what they seem. The secret of the cove was interesting as he told our characters about the decades of smugglers, pirates, and thieves that had haunted the area.
Caroline gave a short appearance as she trouped all the way to Cornwall to cause trouble. Her devious plans to separate Bingley from Jane and her attempts to snare Darcy all came to a crashing head. It was a hoot.
Colonel Fitzwilliam was a surprise; I didn’t see his HEA coming at all, even though Starnes gave us clues [watch those clues]. It happened rather quickly and I was so stunned. Who knew that was even a possibility? I liked how it ended. I think Starnes did an excellent job with what she chose for him.
Everyone’s HEA was explained in the last several chapters and was better than an epilogue.
This was a roller-coaster from beginning to end. Darcy experienced every emotion known to man. From total exhilaration, when he thought Elizabeth returned his love, to abject despair when he realized she didn’t. My heart was broken along with his as he walked away from Elizabeth thinking it was for the last time. At one point I had to put the book down because I needed a respite from the grief and despair.
This JAFF was so different in tone and feel that I didn’t want to put it down; however, I had to eat and sleep. Joana Starnes knows how to wring out the very last emotion you have in your arsenal and then she digs deeper still.
The financial security of the Bennet family took a sudden change for the better from a distant relative on Mrs. Bennet’s side of the family. Mrs. Pencarrow was her mother’s sister and therefore, her aunt. She being a wealthy widow with no children, informed Mr. and Mrs. Bennet that she had bestowed on each of their daughters a dowry substantial enough to secure their futures. She then informed them that her estate was being left to Elizabeth. Her reasons were revealed in a back story that she told only to Elizabeth. Her wealth was explained as Starnes introduced historical facts relating to mining and industry and the financial benefits of an earlier time.
Financial security for their daughters calmed a nervous Mrs. Bennet immensely as she thought of future suitors. And it calmed Mr. Bennet as he realized it would NOT be available to Mr. Collins as part of the entail. He then took a long hard look at his life and how he had neglected his family.
There was a dark and sinister thread that ran throughout this story. You knew something was coming and you didn’t know from what direction it would spring forth. When Wickham arrived you knew dark and dangerous deeds would be the result of his presence. I loved the duel and how it came about. Starnes was a master at building tension in the story, whether sinister, sexual, emotional or joyful. I was a wreck as I read through the tension.
Having said that…I think the story began to fall apart as it built toward the climax. It became confusing and was a bit anticlimactic as the story unfolded. There were so many threads running at the same time that it felt rushed and didn’t fully develop as the climax approached.
I realize the story was the POV of ODC. Since a lot of the climax happened off sight…the only way we could know what happened was a simple retelling. I suppose it had to be that way. ODC was not present to see the action, so couldn’t give their perspective. To be in anyone else’s head would have exposed too much before the final reveal. Starnes only told us what we needed to know at that time. Brilliant!
Lord Trevellyan was an enigma. I could not decide whether to like or dislike him. There was something about him that gave me pause and I had a dreadful feeling about him. Starnes worked such a twist with him and those around him that I kept waiting for the ax to fall at any moment. Sometimes things are simply what they seem. The secret of the cove was interesting as he told our characters about the decades of smugglers, pirates, and thieves that had haunted the area.
Caroline gave a short appearance as she trouped all the way to Cornwall to cause trouble. Her devious plans to separate Bingley from Jane and her attempts to snare Darcy all came to a crashing head. It was a hoot.
Colonel Fitzwilliam was a surprise; I didn’t see his HEA coming at all, even though Starnes gave us clues [watch those clues]. It happened rather quickly and I was so stunned. Who knew that was even a possibility? I liked how it ended. I think Starnes did an excellent job with what she chose for him.
Everyone’s HEA was explained in the last several chapters and was better than an epilogue.
September 13, 2023
I actually enjoyed this read.
apart from - Seriously, Col. Fitzwilliam and Lydia? Seriously?
Um, nononono... just no
apart from - Seriously, Col. Fitzwilliam and Lydia? Seriously?
Um, nononono... just no
April 29, 2020
A wonderful action adventure/romance for Darcy and Elizabeth! This was my second reading, and it was as enjoyable as the first.
Things begin in Kent, where Darcy is overconfident about his planned approach about proposing to Miss Bennet. Colonel Fitzwilliam gets him to rethink it, but can't get him to consider the possibility that the lady may not even like him. It all becomes moot when she receives a directive from her family to join them immediately on a trip to visit her great-aunt in Falmouth. To Elizabeth's surprise, Darcy volunteers to escort her in his carriage to meet the Bennets. During the journey, she gets to see a different side to his personality - he's more relaxed with only his cousin Richard, the maid, and Elizabeth in the coach with him. Darcy is chafing for an opportunity to speak with her and make his proposal at some point during the journey, which never happens due to the presence of the others and the pouring rain that prevents the two from walking together while the horses are resting.
They rendezvous with the Bennets in Basingstoke, and Colonel Fitzwilliam charms all of Elizabeth's family, especially Lydia. Interestingly, Lydia is more insightful than usual, though her comments are still impolite and unguarded. Darcy still doesn't propose.
The Bennet family proceeds to Falmouth, and the tone of the book turns a bit gothic. Mrs. Pencarrow, Elizabeth's great-aunt, lives in a remote estate, Landennis Manor, that's described as dark and somber on the outside, with "dark woods" and "forbidding valleys" surrounding it. She has quite a surprise in store for the family, especially Elizabeth herself. Then Elizabeth meets Lord Trevellyan, who owns a nearby estate, and he immediately singles her out with his attentions. He also warns her that it's not safe for her to walk in the area alone. Darcy eventually shows up and immediately recognizes he has a rival.
The plot continues to get more sinister. Darcy feels it necessary to protect Elizabeth, not trusting Trevellyan and learning Wickham is in the area. The tale is filled with danger and thrills, and both Elizabeth and Darcy experience their share of heartache. As always, Ms. Starnes' excellent writing completely immerses the reader in the story.
Highly recommend!
Things begin in Kent, where Darcy is overconfident about his planned approach about proposing to Miss Bennet. Colonel Fitzwilliam gets him to rethink it, but can't get him to consider the possibility that the lady may not even like him. It all becomes moot when she receives a directive from her family to join them immediately on a trip to visit her great-aunt in Falmouth. To Elizabeth's surprise, Darcy volunteers to escort her in his carriage to meet the Bennets. During the journey, she gets to see a different side to his personality - he's more relaxed with only his cousin Richard, the maid, and Elizabeth in the coach with him. Darcy is chafing for an opportunity to speak with her and make his proposal at some point during the journey, which never happens due to the presence of the others and the pouring rain that prevents the two from walking together while the horses are resting.
They rendezvous with the Bennets in Basingstoke, and Colonel Fitzwilliam charms all of Elizabeth's family, especially Lydia. Interestingly, Lydia is more insightful than usual, though her comments are still impolite and unguarded. Darcy still doesn't propose.
The Bennet family proceeds to Falmouth, and the tone of the book turns a bit gothic. Mrs. Pencarrow, Elizabeth's great-aunt, lives in a remote estate, Landennis Manor, that's described as dark and somber on the outside, with "dark woods" and "forbidding valleys" surrounding it. She has quite a surprise in store for the family, especially Elizabeth herself. Then Elizabeth meets Lord Trevellyan, who owns a nearby estate, and he immediately singles her out with his attentions. He also warns her that it's not safe for her to walk in the area alone. Darcy eventually shows up and immediately recognizes he has a rival.
The plot continues to get more sinister. Darcy feels it necessary to protect Elizabeth, not trusting Trevellyan and learning Wickham is in the area. The tale is filled with danger and thrills, and both Elizabeth and Darcy experience their share of heartache. As always, Ms. Starnes' excellent writing completely immerses the reader in the story.
Highly recommend!
May 29, 2021
Joana Starnes at her best
I’m not quite sure why it’s taken me so long to read this book. Oh my, I did love it! Ms. Starnes has a way with her descriptive prose in this story that truly hits me in the heart, especially when it comes to Darcy. Goodness!
In some of the other Starnes variations I have read, I found them a tad heavy on the narrative side, but this book does not lack for dialogue at all—very good dialogue. The banter between Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam is so entertaining. It’s Darcy’s thoughts and emotions that really got to me though. So emotionally charged and gripping at times. His (and my) poor heart! Yeah, he made mistakes in judgment, but my heart yearned to comfort him. I really liked this portrayal of him. The narrative surrounding the swashbuckling duel between Darcy and the villain we love to hate was impressively well written.
Elizabeth too is well portrayed. While her early prejudice was evident, she thankfully wasn’t depicted as an insufferable shrew. She made her opinions known without question, but even in her initial refusal her kindness and empathy was displayed also.
Great story I highly recommend.
I’m not quite sure why it’s taken me so long to read this book. Oh my, I did love it! Ms. Starnes has a way with her descriptive prose in this story that truly hits me in the heart, especially when it comes to Darcy. Goodness!
In some of the other Starnes variations I have read, I found them a tad heavy on the narrative side, but this book does not lack for dialogue at all—very good dialogue. The banter between Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam is so entertaining. It’s Darcy’s thoughts and emotions that really got to me though. So emotionally charged and gripping at times. His (and my) poor heart! Yeah, he made mistakes in judgment, but my heart yearned to comfort him. I really liked this portrayal of him. The narrative surrounding the swashbuckling duel between Darcy and the villain we love to hate was impressively well written.
Elizabeth too is well portrayed. While her early prejudice was evident, she thankfully wasn’t depicted as an insufferable shrew. She made her opinions known without question, but even in her initial refusal her kindness and empathy was displayed also.
Great story I highly recommend.
December 20, 2014
This review was first published on Babblings of a Bookworm: http://babblingsofabookworm.blogspot....
I was so excited to see that there was a new book by one of my favourite Austenesque authors, Joana Starnes. I’ve read and thoroughly enjoyed two of her books this year, ‘The Subsequent Proposal’ and ‘The Second Chance’, both of which mix characters from other Austen books in with our favourites from ‘Pride & Prejudice’, but ‘The Falmouth Connection’ is a variation featuring only characters from ‘Pride & Prejudice’.
What if... Elizabeth was called away from Hunsford before Darcy could propose? That is what happens here, an estranged relative of Mrs Bennet has summoned the whole Bennet family to her estate in Falmouth. Darcy is determined to propose and desperate to get a chance to do so before Elizabeth leaves. Elizabeth has to meet her family at Basingstoke, some 80 miles or so from Kent, which has caused the Collinses a dilemma, as they don’t want to send her unescorted. When Colonel Fitzwilliam offers to solve the problem by escorting her en route to returning to his duties in Portsmouth, chaperoned by a maid, his cousin quickly speaks up, and offers to take them both, knowing that this unprecedented behaviour will require some explanation to the Colonel.
Colonel Fitzwilliam is supportive of Darcy’s choice of future wife, but unimpressed by his arrogance and utterly aghast at the thought that he is planning to make Miss Bennet aware of his condescension in overlooking her family being so far beneath him:
“Go and propose to her by listing all her failings and see what good it does you! Do not imagine though that I will spare you the ‘I told you so’!”
During the journey, Darcy is unable to find an opportunity to speak privately to Elizabeth, but unfortunately the Colonel does, and, as per his role in 'Pride & Prejudice'. while trying to further his cousin’s suit, instead he manages to drop him right in it instead! The gentlemen deliver Elizabeth to her family and leave. We see a very perceptive side to Lydia here, who, in the space of less than 24 hours manages to make Mr Darcy aware of his blunder in splitting up Bingley and Jane and also channels her mother’s matchmaking intuition and instantly sees something that Lizzy has been blind to:
“Oh Lizzy, just think – and he said you were not handsome enough to tempt him. Oh, what a laugh! Who would have thought it? Mr Darcy!”
“Hush, Lydia!” this time Elizabeth and Jane urged, both at once, and Jane stared at her sister in concern, as Elizabeth’s mouth literally fell open.
Unable to propose, and slowly coming to the realisation that that the lady he loves might not feel any affection towards him and that she might also be extremely angry with him, Darcy decides that he needs to set things right for Bingley as soon as possible, and moreover, that he needs to head for Falmouth, to see what he can do to recover the situation. There, after a delay in discovering the exact location of the Bennets, he discovers three problems. Firstly, he has a rival for Elizabeth’s affections, his nemesis Wickham is working as a steward at a neighbouring estate, and something very fishy is going on.
This was quite different from Joana Starnes’ previous books but I was absolutely riveted by it. Darcy’s slow realisation of the hash he’d made of things was almost painful. Since Darcy doesn’t make his proposal rudely, and knowing and pitying him for his unreciprocated feelings rather than being taken by surprise means that the ‘Hunsford’ moment wasn’t full of vitriol and indignation as in canon, but just utterly heartrending. I thought the emotion in this story was fantastic, Darcy’s despair, Elizabeth’s anger and later her sadness for the pain she’s had to cause, and lots of romance. The story was certainly not lacking in action, and we even got a swordfight! There were also some fisticuffs, which were unfortunately off page, as it involved a character I would love to see being a bit more active! On the downside, I felt that some of the romantic feelings did evolve a bit too quickly, which to be fair, is something that is actually addressed in the book. I would have liked part of the story to take place over a few days rather than a single night so that the feelings could develop at a slightly slower rate. I also wasn’t convinced by one of the pairings without seeing much of the couple together.
One of the things that I’ve noted before in Ms Starnes’ books is that she gives Mrs Bennet some sympathetic treatment – often in JAFF Mrs Bennet is portrayed pretty harshly, which I think is a shame, as I think Austen views her affectionately. Here, Mrs Bennet doesn’t play much of a role, but she warms markedly to Darcy when she sniffs a potential suitor in him. This reversal of attitude from ‘Pride & Prejudice’ really tickled me:
“Well! I trust you know that you are always welcome at Landennis, Mr Darcy,” she offered warmly, “and at Longbourn of course, when we return to Hertfordshire, though I have no notion how soon that would be.”
She fanned herself, then pursed her lips and added, pointedly, looking straight over Bingley’s shoulder:
“And I suppose you can bring your friends, if you so wish...”
We saw some character development of two characters in need of it too, Mr Bennet, who realises he needs to question his parenting, and I was also pleased to see Lydia being given a chance to redeem herself, as the life she had committed to in 'Pride & Prejudice' was not likely to lead to much happiness or respectability. I would definitely recommend reading this book; there is action, intrigue, despair, joy, and so much romance. I found it thoroughly enjoyable, and I’d rate it as a 5 star read.
*I received an ARC of this book from the author for my honest review.
I was so excited to see that there was a new book by one of my favourite Austenesque authors, Joana Starnes. I’ve read and thoroughly enjoyed two of her books this year, ‘The Subsequent Proposal’ and ‘The Second Chance’, both of which mix characters from other Austen books in with our favourites from ‘Pride & Prejudice’, but ‘The Falmouth Connection’ is a variation featuring only characters from ‘Pride & Prejudice’.
What if... Elizabeth was called away from Hunsford before Darcy could propose? That is what happens here, an estranged relative of Mrs Bennet has summoned the whole Bennet family to her estate in Falmouth. Darcy is determined to propose and desperate to get a chance to do so before Elizabeth leaves. Elizabeth has to meet her family at Basingstoke, some 80 miles or so from Kent, which has caused the Collinses a dilemma, as they don’t want to send her unescorted. When Colonel Fitzwilliam offers to solve the problem by escorting her en route to returning to his duties in Portsmouth, chaperoned by a maid, his cousin quickly speaks up, and offers to take them both, knowing that this unprecedented behaviour will require some explanation to the Colonel.
Colonel Fitzwilliam is supportive of Darcy’s choice of future wife, but unimpressed by his arrogance and utterly aghast at the thought that he is planning to make Miss Bennet aware of his condescension in overlooking her family being so far beneath him:
“Go and propose to her by listing all her failings and see what good it does you! Do not imagine though that I will spare you the ‘I told you so’!”
During the journey, Darcy is unable to find an opportunity to speak privately to Elizabeth, but unfortunately the Colonel does, and, as per his role in 'Pride & Prejudice'. while trying to further his cousin’s suit, instead he manages to drop him right in it instead! The gentlemen deliver Elizabeth to her family and leave. We see a very perceptive side to Lydia here, who, in the space of less than 24 hours manages to make Mr Darcy aware of his blunder in splitting up Bingley and Jane and also channels her mother’s matchmaking intuition and instantly sees something that Lizzy has been blind to:
“Oh Lizzy, just think – and he said you were not handsome enough to tempt him. Oh, what a laugh! Who would have thought it? Mr Darcy!”
“Hush, Lydia!” this time Elizabeth and Jane urged, both at once, and Jane stared at her sister in concern, as Elizabeth’s mouth literally fell open.
Unable to propose, and slowly coming to the realisation that that the lady he loves might not feel any affection towards him and that she might also be extremely angry with him, Darcy decides that he needs to set things right for Bingley as soon as possible, and moreover, that he needs to head for Falmouth, to see what he can do to recover the situation. There, after a delay in discovering the exact location of the Bennets, he discovers three problems. Firstly, he has a rival for Elizabeth’s affections, his nemesis Wickham is working as a steward at a neighbouring estate, and something very fishy is going on.
This was quite different from Joana Starnes’ previous books but I was absolutely riveted by it. Darcy’s slow realisation of the hash he’d made of things was almost painful. Since Darcy doesn’t make his proposal rudely, and knowing and pitying him for his unreciprocated feelings rather than being taken by surprise means that the ‘Hunsford’ moment wasn’t full of vitriol and indignation as in canon, but just utterly heartrending. I thought the emotion in this story was fantastic, Darcy’s despair, Elizabeth’s anger and later her sadness for the pain she’s had to cause, and lots of romance. The story was certainly not lacking in action, and we even got a swordfight! There were also some fisticuffs, which were unfortunately off page, as it involved a character I would love to see being a bit more active! On the downside, I felt that some of the romantic feelings did evolve a bit too quickly, which to be fair, is something that is actually addressed in the book. I would have liked part of the story to take place over a few days rather than a single night so that the feelings could develop at a slightly slower rate. I also wasn’t convinced by one of the pairings without seeing much of the couple together.
One of the things that I’ve noted before in Ms Starnes’ books is that she gives Mrs Bennet some sympathetic treatment – often in JAFF Mrs Bennet is portrayed pretty harshly, which I think is a shame, as I think Austen views her affectionately. Here, Mrs Bennet doesn’t play much of a role, but she warms markedly to Darcy when she sniffs a potential suitor in him. This reversal of attitude from ‘Pride & Prejudice’ really tickled me:
“Well! I trust you know that you are always welcome at Landennis, Mr Darcy,” she offered warmly, “and at Longbourn of course, when we return to Hertfordshire, though I have no notion how soon that would be.”
She fanned herself, then pursed her lips and added, pointedly, looking straight over Bingley’s shoulder:
“And I suppose you can bring your friends, if you so wish...”
We saw some character development of two characters in need of it too, Mr Bennet, who realises he needs to question his parenting, and I was also pleased to see Lydia being given a chance to redeem herself, as the life she had committed to in 'Pride & Prejudice' was not likely to lead to much happiness or respectability. I would definitely recommend reading this book; there is action, intrigue, despair, joy, and so much romance. I found it thoroughly enjoyable, and I’d rate it as a 5 star read.
*I received an ARC of this book from the author for my honest review.
May 15, 2020
Well, that was a great use of my time! You can't really go wrong with a Joana Starnes novel. This book offered a fulfilling read with plenty of conflict and some moments with moderate and high angst to keep the reader's attention. As usual, a few non-Regency words, and the same ones as her other novels--"snort" was used liberally (just saying that makes me laugh!). Great prose that got poetic at times. Some of the scenic descriptions were too complicated to figure out, and I have great 3d perception. Too many of the new characters had names too close to one another. I guess the author was making us pay attention. And that we did, to this terrific story!
Disclaimer: I'm also a JAFF author and my reviews could be considered a conflict of interest. That said, I write 'em as I see 'em.
Disclaimer: I'm also a JAFF author and my reviews could be considered a conflict of interest. That said, I write 'em as I see 'em.
November 9, 2018
In this Pride and Prejudice variation, Elizabeth is called from Hunsford to visit a remote relative and meet up with her family. Darcy, not able to deliver his planned proposal, offers his carriage and escort with the Colonel. The Colonel is the one who informs Darcy that is method of proposing is insulting. That is just the beginning!
This book had constant action and did not lag at any point. It changed from one persons view point to another. It has mystery, sword fighting, danger, perseverance, and love. The story does provide Elizabeth and Darcy a happily ever after but they certainly earn it!
This book had constant action and did not lag at any point. It changed from one persons view point to another. It has mystery, sword fighting, danger, perseverance, and love. The story does provide Elizabeth and Darcy a happily ever after but they certainly earn it!
September 25, 2022
I swear I read this maybe 4 years ago but it must have been in my post op binge where I don’t remember much. 🤣
Anyway. Holy swoony Darcy. 💋💋💋
Some bits were not to my taste: Col F and Lydia 😝. Caroline coming ALL the way there to spend maybe 12 hours only to flounce off? It must have taken the girl 5 days to get there.
Anyway. Holy swoony Darcy. 💋💋💋
Some bits were not to my taste: Col F and Lydia 😝. Caroline coming ALL the way there to spend maybe 12 hours only to flounce off? It must have taken the girl 5 days to get there.
June 5, 2021
4.5 stars
April 27, 2017
The Falmouth Connection
Saved by his instincts and his overwhelming desire to protect Miss Elizabeth Bennet, Darcy was saved from a miserable life without Elizabeth in his. The unfortunate Meryton Assembly and Bingley's removal from Netherfield still take place, but Darcy's discussion with his cousin prevents the infamous Hunsford proposal. Called from Kent to meet her family in Basingstoke, Elizabeth is taken by coach by Darcy, Fitzwilliam, and her maid, Sarah. While Darcy takes Fitzwilliam to Portsmouth for duty, he failed to gets each direction in Falmouth, Cornwall. Armed with nothing more than the great-aunt's name, Mrs. Pencarrow, Darcy tries to find Elizabeth. Locating her weeks after arriving in Falmouth, Darcy is unprepared for the cold reception at Lindennis estate. Besides, a rival, Lord Trevellyan, seems to have won Elizabeth's regards. Unfortunately, he doesn't know that Fitzwilliam shared Darcy's efforts to separate Bingley from Jane so her refusal, while not quite as harsh as the Hunsford refusal in Austen's beloved Pride and Prejudice, hurt Darcy none the less. Darcy cannot seem to withdraw especially after hearing a rather strange conversation between Trevellyan and his men. By the time of Trevellyan's ball, Bingley has arrived in Falmouth. Neither Elizabeth nor Jane are happy to see them, but when Jane and Elizabeth disappear from the ball, along with the host, the two love struck heroes move off to protect them at Lindennis. With the mystery and intrigue around Lord Trevellyan's clandestine disappearance from his own ball, Darcy's intuition pays off, he protects Elizabeth, and her feelings take a turn for the better. The morning after finds more than one HEA occurring within the Bennet household. Caroline Bingley is not too happy to find out that the Bennet sisters are an heiress, and after inviting herself to Falmouth, returns home with her tail between her legs bemoaning the existence of the Bennet family. Well written story, and Joana's Darcy was exasperating and loveable at the same time. As a reader, one really felt his pain of hurt and rejection.
Saved by his instincts and his overwhelming desire to protect Miss Elizabeth Bennet, Darcy was saved from a miserable life without Elizabeth in his. The unfortunate Meryton Assembly and Bingley's removal from Netherfield still take place, but Darcy's discussion with his cousin prevents the infamous Hunsford proposal. Called from Kent to meet her family in Basingstoke, Elizabeth is taken by coach by Darcy, Fitzwilliam, and her maid, Sarah. While Darcy takes Fitzwilliam to Portsmouth for duty, he failed to gets each direction in Falmouth, Cornwall. Armed with nothing more than the great-aunt's name, Mrs. Pencarrow, Darcy tries to find Elizabeth. Locating her weeks after arriving in Falmouth, Darcy is unprepared for the cold reception at Lindennis estate. Besides, a rival, Lord Trevellyan, seems to have won Elizabeth's regards. Unfortunately, he doesn't know that Fitzwilliam shared Darcy's efforts to separate Bingley from Jane so her refusal, while not quite as harsh as the Hunsford refusal in Austen's beloved Pride and Prejudice, hurt Darcy none the less. Darcy cannot seem to withdraw especially after hearing a rather strange conversation between Trevellyan and his men. By the time of Trevellyan's ball, Bingley has arrived in Falmouth. Neither Elizabeth nor Jane are happy to see them, but when Jane and Elizabeth disappear from the ball, along with the host, the two love struck heroes move off to protect them at Lindennis. With the mystery and intrigue around Lord Trevellyan's clandestine disappearance from his own ball, Darcy's intuition pays off, he protects Elizabeth, and her feelings take a turn for the better. The morning after finds more than one HEA occurring within the Bennet household. Caroline Bingley is not too happy to find out that the Bennet sisters are an heiress, and after inviting herself to Falmouth, returns home with her tail between her legs bemoaning the existence of the Bennet family. Well written story, and Joana's Darcy was exasperating and loveable at the same time. As a reader, one really felt his pain of hurt and rejection.
October 13, 2017
This is my second Joana Starnes book (the first being Mr Bennet's Dutiful Daughter), and I was once again impressed by the sheer quality of the writing. The way she paints Darcy's emotional turmoil makes it beautiful, in spite of its sadness. I loved how you could follow the gradual change from his arrogant confidence to that rock bottom place he faces later. Elizabeth was also nicely portrayed, but hers simply wasn't as poignant.
My one complaint is that Elizabeth's change of heart felt very quick. I realize that quite a bit of time passed between their start in Kent and the end, but a large portion of that time was spent
However, I can easily forgive that, because the rest of the story was fabulous. Also, I adore a good hurt/comfort plot, so having Elizabeth is right up my alley. There wasn't quite enough substance to the Wickham plotline in general, but I found I didn't care.
Oh. I did find the Lydia a little silly, but it wasn't enough to detract from my enjoyment.
And, as always, Stevie Zimmerman is a fabulous narrator. She's the reason I chose to download this book on audible next.
My one complaint is that Elizabeth's change of heart felt very quick. I realize that quite a bit of time passed between their start in Kent and the end, but a large portion of that time was spent
However, I can easily forgive that, because the rest of the story was fabulous. Also, I adore a good hurt/comfort plot, so having Elizabeth is right up my alley. There wasn't quite enough substance to the Wickham plotline in general, but I found I didn't care.
Oh. I did find the Lydia a little silly, but it wasn't enough to detract from my enjoyment.
And, as always, Stevie Zimmerman is a fabulous narrator. She's the reason I chose to download this book on audible next.
January 28, 2015
mazon Verified Purchase
Loved, loved, loved. What a clever twist of Jane Austen's masterpiece! Though The Falmouth Connection takes our beloved Lizzy and Darcy down a wholly different path than I had ever read before, I welcomed the inventive re-imagining��� and appreciate that Starnes kept the characteristics fairly true to Austen's. So happy to have read. Am eager to recommend. Stayed in my pajamas reading this all day one Sunday��� then went to sleep with a happy heart. #rainyDayIndulgence
Loved, loved, loved. What a clever twist of Jane Austen's masterpiece! Though The Falmouth Connection takes our beloved Lizzy and Darcy down a wholly different path than I had ever read before, I welcomed the inventive re-imagining��� and appreciate that Starnes kept the characteristics fairly true to Austen's. So happy to have read. Am eager to recommend. Stayed in my pajamas reading this all day one Sunday��� then went to sleep with a happy heart. #rainyDayIndulgence
September 24, 2017
Not my favorite but good. Nothing by this author can be bad but I found myself lacking concern and care about any of the characters. I do not know why this did not engage me as there was plenty going on. It didn't mesh. I am sure to try it again in the future though. I may like it more then.
July 2, 2020
The first 25% of the book was the best, although it was an extremely exaggerated version of Darcy and his arrogance, which made me dislike him. Rather than simply not considering whether Elizabeth might reject his proposal, as in P&P, he thinks and speaks as though she is positively encouraging him and desperate for him to ask her.
The rest of the book, once the cast were in Falmouth, lost some of it's entertainment value for me. There were a host of new characters, who were decidedly less well drawn, or seemed to lack the depth and assurance Starnes displays when writing about Austen's characters.
Darcy's rival for Elizabeth's hand - Lord Trevellyan - was depicted in such a way as to make him seem a villain, only for his actions to be cleared away as a misunderstanding. But for me, this whole thing didn't work.
Firstly, because every time Darcy suspects him of ill intentions I kept thinking "Why? What's wrong with that? He's just being protective for some reason." And it felt like a normal person would have given Trevellyan the benefit of the doubt rather than immediately suspecting him of nefarious purposes.
Secondly, because in a bid to make Trevellyan's rather unthreatening behaviour up to this point appear in a worse light, Starnes writes him telling Lizzy off like a naughty child and being unnecessarily cryptic and aggressive, and generally being an ass. This worked in making me not like him, as nothing else had done... Only then, we are told to forgive him because he had good intentions and is all heartbroken - only I couldn't give a damn about him or his supposed feelings, nor could I believe in his heartbreak when he'd acted with no respect at all for Elizabeth and we'd seen no evidence of his attachment.
Elizabeth's change of heart over Darcy was also too sudden. She kisses him the same day as having rejected his offer of marriage in no uncertain terms. She sees him in physical danger and suddenly realises she loves him... But why? It seemed like the only reason she had for loving him by that point was that he loved her, which makes her kind of egocentric.
Lastly, by the time they've declared their love for each other, there is still a lot of book left, with no story / drama to fill it, which meant it became a slog to finish.
I should probably mention that I've read some truly terrific books (and short stories) by Joana Starnes, and I know she is capable of amazing things, so while this is not one I would recommend, do check out her other stuff if you like JAFF.
The rest of the book, once the cast were in Falmouth, lost some of it's entertainment value for me. There were a host of new characters, who were decidedly less well drawn, or seemed to lack the depth and assurance Starnes displays when writing about Austen's characters.
Darcy's rival for Elizabeth's hand - Lord Trevellyan - was depicted in such a way as to make him seem a villain, only for his actions to be cleared away as a misunderstanding. But for me, this whole thing didn't work.
Firstly, because every time Darcy suspects him of ill intentions I kept thinking "Why? What's wrong with that? He's just being protective for some reason." And it felt like a normal person would have given Trevellyan the benefit of the doubt rather than immediately suspecting him of nefarious purposes.
Secondly, because in a bid to make Trevellyan's rather unthreatening behaviour up to this point appear in a worse light, Starnes writes him telling Lizzy off like a naughty child and being unnecessarily cryptic and aggressive, and generally being an ass. This worked in making me not like him, as nothing else had done... Only then, we are told to forgive him because he had good intentions and is all heartbroken - only I couldn't give a damn about him or his supposed feelings, nor could I believe in his heartbreak when he'd acted with no respect at all for Elizabeth and we'd seen no evidence of his attachment.
Elizabeth's change of heart over Darcy was also too sudden. She kisses him the same day as having rejected his offer of marriage in no uncertain terms. She sees him in physical danger and suddenly realises she loves him... But why? It seemed like the only reason she had for loving him by that point was that he loved her, which makes her kind of egocentric.
Lastly, by the time they've declared their love for each other, there is still a lot of book left, with no story / drama to fill it, which meant it became a slog to finish.
I should probably mention that I've read some truly terrific books (and short stories) by Joana Starnes, and I know she is capable of amazing things, so while this is not one I would recommend, do check out her other stuff if you like JAFF.
January 28, 2018
The Falmouth Connection was a thrilling read. Very well written and delightfully moving.
Darcy never gets to deliver his proposal at Hunsford as Elizabeth is summoned to join her relations on a trip to Falmouth in Cornwall. Mrs Bennet's hitherto unknown aunt has invited the entire Bennet family. Darcy offers to convey Elizabeth to the inn where the rest of her family is waiting, in hope an opportunity to propose. His plan is twarted by overcrowded inns and circumstances until it is too late. His interference in Bingley's affair is revealed and the warmth Elizabeth had developed towards him is gone.
The anguish Darcy experience when he realises her sentiments was absolutely beautifully written.
As he is no quitter, he soon finds himself chasing her, hellbent on changing her opinion of him only to discover he has got a rival for her affection.
Fighting the rival, old enemies and the strange goings on in Falmouth was a thrilling journey towards the happily ever after. Loved the way her affections were won and the "wedding" was utterly romantic...
I love to be surprised and the colonels HEA was both unexpected and funny. The Bingley's HEA was less a surprise but the road there was... I adore a Bingley with a backbone.
Heartily recommend this book!
Darcy never gets to deliver his proposal at Hunsford as Elizabeth is summoned to join her relations on a trip to Falmouth in Cornwall. Mrs Bennet's hitherto unknown aunt has invited the entire Bennet family. Darcy offers to convey Elizabeth to the inn where the rest of her family is waiting, in hope an opportunity to propose. His plan is twarted by overcrowded inns and circumstances until it is too late. His interference in Bingley's affair is revealed and the warmth Elizabeth had developed towards him is gone.
The anguish Darcy experience when he realises her sentiments was absolutely beautifully written.
As he is no quitter, he soon finds himself chasing her, hellbent on changing her opinion of him only to discover he has got a rival for her affection.
Fighting the rival, old enemies and the strange goings on in Falmouth was a thrilling journey towards the happily ever after. Loved the way her affections were won and the "wedding" was utterly romantic...
I love to be surprised and the colonels HEA was both unexpected and funny. The Bingley's HEA was less a surprise but the road there was... I adore a Bingley with a backbone.
Heartily recommend this book!
November 7, 2015
Ms. Starnes continues to astonish with her beautifully detailed anguish. "Poison. Poison. Every thought was poison." Ripped me to pieces. A fun spin on an old tale, with gothic overtones and an adventurous spirit. . Plenty of excellent twists and turns, the newer characters did not feel forced or shoehorned in as original characters sometimes do. A most satisfying conclusion (and a surprising one for the character who is ever my favorite). I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
March 27, 2024
This is such a fun story. If you ever wanted to see Darcy sword fighting Wickham then I recommend this one. Reread March 2024, first read March 2015.
October 5, 2015
3.5 Stars
August 25, 2017
Great what if
A wonderful and original variation, it is an engrossing tale. It takes the reader to a new setting and to an intrigue that confronts Darcy with several enemies in defense of Elizabeth.
Really original and entertaining.
A wonderful and original variation, it is an engrossing tale. It takes the reader to a new setting and to an intrigue that confronts Darcy with several enemies in defense of Elizabeth.
Really original and entertaining.
June 18, 2017
I loved The Falmouth Connection, the romance, the mystery I like stories in which Darcy has a rival. It was fun to follow his way of thinking, how he misinterpreted Lizzy's behavior and expressions, until he was forced to face the truth.
The book had great villains, some of them were a surprise. There is even a duel (sigh). Lizzy's aunt is such a colorful character, and her and her sister's story was heartbreaking. There are some unexpected pairings, but it worked for me. Great book, Joana!
The book had great villains, some of them were a surprise. There is even a duel (sigh). Lizzy's aunt is such a colorful character, and her and her sister's story was heartbreaking. There are some unexpected pairings, but it worked for me. Great book, Joana!
April 18, 2022
3.5 rounded up! This was a story with mystery, suspense and romance. I really enjoyed it and would recommend to P&P fans. I did feel that after the climax was reached and the mystery part resolved, the book could have wrapped up a little bit sooner. There was also one romantic pairing (no names mentioned) that I couldn't wrap my brain around and didn't quite sit well with me, but that's only my personal preference and opinion.
March 14, 2022
Great story
We find the Bennet family in Falmouth visiting Mrs Bennet's great aunt who is quite elderly and has decided to give the girls a portion of her money and then leave her estate to Elizabeth. Darcy follows her there and gets news to Bingley to come see Jane once he learned she is suffering from Bingley's abandoning her. Of course, being near the ocean we have smuggling and other distasteful acts with Wickham involved ( of course). I enjoyed reading this very much except for Colonel Fitzwilliam falling in love with the one Bennet daughter I never would imagine being accepted by his family! Talk about surprises - I am still in shock!
We find the Bennet family in Falmouth visiting Mrs Bennet's great aunt who is quite elderly and has decided to give the girls a portion of her money and then leave her estate to Elizabeth. Darcy follows her there and gets news to Bingley to come see Jane once he learned she is suffering from Bingley's abandoning her. Of course, being near the ocean we have smuggling and other distasteful acts with Wickham involved ( of course). I enjoyed reading this very much except for Colonel Fitzwilliam falling in love with the one Bennet daughter I never would imagine being accepted by his family! Talk about surprises - I am still in shock!
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