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Steady to His Purpose: A Variation of Pride and Prejudice
What if Elizabeth Bennet was compromised during that unchaperoned half-hour in the Netherfield library with Fitzwilliam Darcy? Would they still have their happily-ever-after? This story begins as Elizabeth and Jane Bennet return home after their brief stay at Netherfield Park.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 9, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 9, 2017
4.5 stars
This author has a number of books available on Kindle Unlimited. I have read four of her other books and enjoyed them. She does quote a number of poems or other works both seasonal and about love.
This is a story about a marriage due to a supposed compromise: one that is actually only on the tongues of certain servants and then neighbors and acquaintances in the Meryton area. Barbara, Caroline Bingley's maidservant has heard her rant and rave and make snide comments about Elizabeth Bennet and "her attempts" to seduce Darcy away from Caroline. So when it comes to Barbara's attention that Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth sat in the library unchaperoned for approximately 30 minutes Barbara is only too happy and anxious to further her lady's goals of putting down Elizabeth Bennet. Sadly, those who have known the Bennet sisters for 20 some years are not at all shy to snub and make stage whispers with rude descriptions about Elizabeth's (and Mr. Darcy's) character.
Darcy learns of the gossip and is not shy about doing his duty and he does meet with Mr. Bennet. Darcy has already had thoughts about Elizabeth's charms, wits, humor and figure...but the man neglects to say any of this even when the issue of marriage is forced. I found his actions with the town's tradesmen to show a great deal of sense and generosity...especially as he deals with not only Wickham's aftermath but also with opinions.
This story deals a great deal with conversations: not only between E. and D. but also time and again between servants, tradesmen and people of Meryton and London. The wedding day shows just who are the truest in their admiration and their respect for ODC as only family fill the church BUT as they walk out the servants of Longbourn and Netherfield are there to greet and bestow wishes on ODC.
This story has events in London and then in Pemberley and back at Meryton, etc. as Elizabeth and Darcy find night bringing passions to the fore but neither seems to speak of their feelings in the day light. Georgiana tries to further help what she sees and needs to learn about knocking on doors before entering...oops! (This book does not go into MA descriptions.)
I did have tears in my eyes several times. I was quite happy with how gossipers were dealt with in the end. Not all were slapped down but they did get the message. Caroline Bingley...well she, too, finds her own reward!
This author has a number of books available on Kindle Unlimited. I have read four of her other books and enjoyed them. She does quote a number of poems or other works both seasonal and about love.
This is a story about a marriage due to a supposed compromise: one that is actually only on the tongues of certain servants and then neighbors and acquaintances in the Meryton area. Barbara, Caroline Bingley's maidservant has heard her rant and rave and make snide comments about Elizabeth Bennet and "her attempts" to seduce Darcy away from Caroline. So when it comes to Barbara's attention that Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth sat in the library unchaperoned for approximately 30 minutes Barbara is only too happy and anxious to further her lady's goals of putting down Elizabeth Bennet. Sadly, those who have known the Bennet sisters for 20 some years are not at all shy to snub and make stage whispers with rude descriptions about Elizabeth's (and Mr. Darcy's) character.
Darcy learns of the gossip and is not shy about doing his duty and he does meet with Mr. Bennet. Darcy has already had thoughts about Elizabeth's charms, wits, humor and figure...but the man neglects to say any of this even when the issue of marriage is forced. I found his actions with the town's tradesmen to show a great deal of sense and generosity...especially as he deals with not only Wickham's aftermath but also with opinions.
This story deals a great deal with conversations: not only between E. and D. but also time and again between servants, tradesmen and people of Meryton and London. The wedding day shows just who are the truest in their admiration and their respect for ODC as only family fill the church BUT as they walk out the servants of Longbourn and Netherfield are there to greet and bestow wishes on ODC.
This story has events in London and then in Pemberley and back at Meryton, etc. as Elizabeth and Darcy find night bringing passions to the fore but neither seems to speak of their feelings in the day light. Georgiana tries to further help what she sees and needs to learn about knocking on doors before entering...oops! (This book does not go into MA descriptions.)
I did have tears in my eyes several times. I was quite happy with how gossipers were dealt with in the end. Not all were slapped down but they did get the message. Caroline Bingley...well she, too, finds her own reward!
January 31, 2021
This was a difficult book to rate. There were parts that I adored and others I loathed with the heat of 10000 suns.
Lets start with the Likes:
The basic story – how a rumor backfires on Caroline Bingley and causes Darcy to marry Lizzy because of a rumored compromise and the reaction of the denizens of Meryton is unique and well plotted.
The gradual development of affection between Darcy and Lizzy is nicely, if a little risquely, done.
The part where Lizzy, lonely at Pemberley, converse with imaginary Jane and allows Jane's sensibility to calm her temper and see things from other perspectives. It is like a WWJaneDo and it is unique.
The downfall of Caroline Bingley, honestly I would love to read a whole book on that topic.
But the problems with the book are too severe to be offset by the goodness.
The author needs to grasp the concept of exposition verses dialogue. There is much too much dialogue. And the dialogue is repetitive, I would find myself skimming sections of dialogue merely to get the plot to proceed.
Georgiana is almost annoying. She is a character many authors seem to struggle with but this version is straight up annoying. Intrusive, whiny, weepy and immature.
The lists: the author seems to love to create lists, what is on the breakfast side board, what Lizzy is wearing, it is detail without purpose and annoying.
The plot inconsistencies. Georgiana is unable to attend Darcy's wedding because of Wickham but Darcy had gotten rid of Wickham.
This mostly unlikable Darcy. Immediately following their wedding the Earl and Countess of Matlock arrive for breakfast and Darcy forgets to tell Lizzy, he forgets to tell her they are going out, he forgets to tell her they are going to a ball.
The story jumps from the Darcys to the Hursts and Caroline Bingley, and I actually loved this plot line but the transition was awkward.
Honestly the more I recollect the story the more nits I find to pick.
Lets start with the Likes:
The basic story – how a rumor backfires on Caroline Bingley and causes Darcy to marry Lizzy because of a rumored compromise and the reaction of the denizens of Meryton is unique and well plotted.
The gradual development of affection between Darcy and Lizzy is nicely, if a little risquely, done.
The part where Lizzy, lonely at Pemberley, converse with imaginary Jane and allows Jane's sensibility to calm her temper and see things from other perspectives. It is like a WWJaneDo and it is unique.
The downfall of Caroline Bingley, honestly I would love to read a whole book on that topic.
But the problems with the book are too severe to be offset by the goodness.
The author needs to grasp the concept of exposition verses dialogue. There is much too much dialogue. And the dialogue is repetitive, I would find myself skimming sections of dialogue merely to get the plot to proceed.
Georgiana is almost annoying. She is a character many authors seem to struggle with but this version is straight up annoying. Intrusive, whiny, weepy and immature.
The lists: the author seems to love to create lists, what is on the breakfast side board, what Lizzy is wearing, it is detail without purpose and annoying.
The plot inconsistencies. Georgiana is unable to attend Darcy's wedding because of Wickham but Darcy had gotten rid of Wickham.
This mostly unlikable Darcy. Immediately following their wedding the Earl and Countess of Matlock arrive for breakfast and Darcy forgets to tell Lizzy, he forgets to tell her they are going out, he forgets to tell her they are going to a ball.
The story jumps from the Darcys to the Hursts and Caroline Bingley, and I actually loved this plot line but the transition was awkward.
Honestly the more I recollect the story the more nits I find to pick.
January 31, 2021
Oddly different
The writing style for this book was much different to her other books. It was ok but I like the other style more.
It was a story about the lack of control anyone has with the gossip that can spring up out of nowhere.
Both Lizzy and Darcy have quite a bit of growing up to do but the HEA was so lovely. 😜
The writing style for this book was much different to her other books. It was ok but I like the other style more.
It was a story about the lack of control anyone has with the gossip that can spring up out of nowhere.
Both Lizzy and Darcy have quite a bit of growing up to do but the HEA was so lovely. 😜
June 19, 2016
Steady to His Purpose
Very sweet rendition of our Beloved Couple's struggles! It's nice when The Bennet family is nicer. This time most of the troubles were gossipy neighbors. People love to spread stories and they do take on a life of their own. Nicely written. Good read.
Very sweet rendition of our Beloved Couple's struggles! It's nice when The Bennet family is nicer. This time most of the troubles were gossipy neighbors. People love to spread stories and they do take on a life of their own. Nicely written. Good read.
July 24, 2016
This book started slowly as the gossip of a compromise forces Elizabeth and Darcy together before they find their shared feelings. This part of the story was wonderful. After they are married they have to learn to get along. They both apologize WAY to much, there are plenty of tears, and way to many mentions of handkerchiefs!
January 31, 2021
In this variation the unchaperoned time spent in the library with Darcy at Netherfield has become known and Elizabeth's reputation is ruined. Gossip is spread and Darcy and Elizabeth must marry. But the gossip is constant. Part 2 and 3 are mainly about the marriage and therefore not of interest to me.
February 26, 2016
I enjoyed the concept of this story, where the forced marriage through compromise was achieved largely through the gossip of servants and townspeople. It didn't really affect Elizabeth and Darcy's relationship, though, so other than misunderstandings about their true feelings for one another, there wasn't much conflict in the story. After a while, it felt like a series of interconnected scenes about their married life, but there wasn't any real progress. Sure, Elizabeth came to understand that Darcy truly loved her, but given how content she was 90% of the time, it didn't feel like any big change. The last 25%, in particular, was excessive and unnecessary--particularly the Twelfth Night party.
There was some weird formatting in this story that could have used a good editor to clean up, with spacing and centering and italics that weren't always properly placed. There was also an excessive amount of quoting and footnoting, which was distracting. I find that sort of thing, frankly, boring, and I skimmed it or skipped it whenever it occurred, especially after I realized it was going to be frequently repeated.
There was some weird formatting in this story that could have used a good editor to clean up, with spacing and centering and italics that weren't always properly placed. There was also an excessive amount of quoting and footnoting, which was distracting. I find that sort of thing, frankly, boring, and I skimmed it or skipped it whenever it occurred, especially after I realized it was going to be frequently repeated.
July 9, 2024
Loved the Caroline storyline and overall story. Fun read.
Reread: Not as fun the second time.
Reread: Not as fun the second time.
August 25, 2020
A difficult path created by gossip and malice. Highly recommended tale that deviates from canon but takes the characters in an interesting road.
February 3, 2015
Alors .... je n'ai rien contre la fanfiction, vous le savez, mais lorsqu'elle est commercialisée, je pense que le système atteint ses limites parce que, malheureusement, ce qui est acceptable et divertissant en lecture gratuite sur ff net l'est un peu moins en roman auto édité et vendu sur Amazon. Donc, même si le scénario (quoiqu'un peu tiré par les cheveux) est acceptable, j'ai plus de problèmes avec l'écriture. Beaucoup de répétitions dans le vocabulaire et dans les événements ( tous les toasts de machin truc et bidule)... Des personnages peu contrastés, très lisses et manichéens : méchante méchante Caroline... Et surtout les personnages sont totalement "out of character" : je comprends la bonne intention de l'auteure de vouloir redorer le blason des Bennet( notamment de Mrs Bennet) mais ça ne marche pas avec moi : la présenter comme une femme de goût, donner de l'éducation à Lydia et Kitty, faire en sorte que Mr Bennet sorte de sa bibliothèque... Mettre en scène une Georgiana impétueuse et d'un contact facile... Tout ça ne marche pas pour moi. L'idée de prendre les ragots comme fil rouge du récit est amusante la première fois mais c'est lassant de chez lassant... Les réactions des personnages inventés sont peu crédibles, comme Mr Darcy qui devient une bête de sociabilité (j'exagère à peine) Du coup, c'est tombé complètement à plat.
Ce que j'aime : l'idée de base, centrée sur les ragots. Le sexe entre Darcy & Lizzy
Ce que j'aime moins : l'écriture qui dénote un manque cruel de corrections et de relecture. Les personnages, complètement out of characters (je suis d'accord que les circonstances comptent dans le comportement des personnages, mais là c'est carrément leur personnalité qui a changée
En bref : Une fan fiction, qui, en l'absence d'une quelconque travail sur le style ou les personnages aurait du rester tranquillement sur ff net. L'auteure a de bonnes idées mais ce n'est pas suffisant à mes yeux pour justifier une publication payante
Ma note
1/10
Ce que j'aime : l'idée de base, centrée sur les ragots. Le sexe entre Darcy & Lizzy
Ce que j'aime moins : l'écriture qui dénote un manque cruel de corrections et de relecture. Les personnages, complètement out of characters (je suis d'accord que les circonstances comptent dans le comportement des personnages, mais là c'est carrément leur personnalité qui a changée
En bref : Une fan fiction, qui, en l'absence d'une quelconque travail sur le style ou les personnages aurait du rester tranquillement sur ff net. L'auteure a de bonnes idées mais ce n'est pas suffisant à mes yeux pour justifier une publication payante
Ma note
1/10
July 4, 2017
Steady to His Purpose: A Variation of Pride and Prejudice
An interesting set of developments that occur when Elizabeth and Darcy spent those thirty minutes in the library without a chaperone. Caroline's jealousy and her loose lipped ladies maid start the destructive rumor that destroys Elizabeth Bennet's name and questions her virtue. Darcy hears about what is being said about Elizabeth from one of Netherfield's young groomsmen. In love with Elizabeth more than he cares to admit, Darcy has no problem going to Mr. Bennet to request her hand in marriage. Upset at a forced marriage, but resigned to save her sisters' chances, Darcy and Elizabeth marry. When her Meryton neighbors refuse to accept that the story is false that there was no compromise, Darcy has supplies brought in from London bypassing Meryton's shops altogether. As the time together lengthens, Elizabeth begins to see that her prejudices against Darcy were all her misconceptions and that he has loved her almost since he met her. Faced with being wrong she apologizes to him most sincerely and hope for the loving marriage of her dreams materialize. Hiccups along the way are handled quickly: transportation for Wickham, the Earl handles Lady Catherine's interference, and society takes care of Caroline Bingley's loose lips. At Jane's March wedding, Mrs. Bennet remarks that she can hardly wait for her first grandchild to Elizabeth. Happy are the Darcys as he predicts his daughter and she predicts her son. A HEA for ODC filled with disagreements for sure, but filled with much love during those times of sincere apologies.
An interesting set of developments that occur when Elizabeth and Darcy spent those thirty minutes in the library without a chaperone. Caroline's jealousy and her loose lipped ladies maid start the destructive rumor that destroys Elizabeth Bennet's name and questions her virtue. Darcy hears about what is being said about Elizabeth from one of Netherfield's young groomsmen. In love with Elizabeth more than he cares to admit, Darcy has no problem going to Mr. Bennet to request her hand in marriage. Upset at a forced marriage, but resigned to save her sisters' chances, Darcy and Elizabeth marry. When her Meryton neighbors refuse to accept that the story is false that there was no compromise, Darcy has supplies brought in from London bypassing Meryton's shops altogether. As the time together lengthens, Elizabeth begins to see that her prejudices against Darcy were all her misconceptions and that he has loved her almost since he met her. Faced with being wrong she apologizes to him most sincerely and hope for the loving marriage of her dreams materialize. Hiccups along the way are handled quickly: transportation for Wickham, the Earl handles Lady Catherine's interference, and society takes care of Caroline Bingley's loose lips. At Jane's March wedding, Mrs. Bennet remarks that she can hardly wait for her first grandchild to Elizabeth. Happy are the Darcys as he predicts his daughter and she predicts her son. A HEA for ODC filled with disagreements for sure, but filled with much love during those times of sincere apologies.
June 18, 2016
I quite enjoyed this - the idea that Darcy and Elizabeth would be compromised by the time spent alone in Netherfield's library is quite an interesting one and the author handles it quite well, although I would have to agree with another reviewer that the story goes on a bit. It is a clean story and the author manages to write in a manner reasonably consistent with the time period, although modern expressions do sometimes slip through.
Read
October 17, 2023Didn’t grab my attention. Too linear, too much useless background information than any P&P reader already know, not enough “mystery” about the characters and their thoughts
November 18, 2023
I liked the concept but it is not very emotional and it took me months to finish this. I started it several times and got distracted with reading something else. Miss Bingley starts some rumours about Elizabeth and Darcy, not realizing that it will lead to the result that is the precise opposite from her own desires. The Meryton people believe everything they hear and ostracize Lizzy and the Bennets despite her engagement. Then there are scenes in London and Pemberley.
Sometimes people go back and forth in their feelings quite fast which seemed unmotivated. The gossip seems to be diminished for a bit, only to come back with a vengeance, although Caroline is away. Their wedding night, Darcy decides that he's only going to say goodnight and retire to his own chambers, and immediately after entering her room he forgets all about it. Lizzy wants to hear him say I love you outside of an intimate scene and the minute he does she's got a problem with it. Georgiana gets silly weepy sometimes.
Steam level: I wouldn't call it steamy as such but there are several scenes involving marital intimacies.
Sometimes people go back and forth in their feelings quite fast which seemed unmotivated. The gossip seems to be diminished for a bit, only to come back with a vengeance, although Caroline is away. Their wedding night, Darcy decides that he's only going to say goodnight and retire to his own chambers, and immediately after entering her room he forgets all about it. Lizzy wants to hear him say I love you outside of an intimate scene and the minute he does she's got a problem with it. Georgiana gets silly weepy sometimes.
Steam level: I wouldn't call it steamy as such but there are several scenes involving marital intimacies.
May 8, 2017
Fanfiction.net reader who made the transition to Kindle
I have read over 100 P&P variations over the last year (yes and truthfully, likely more) but I started reading on fanfiction.net. 'Astonishment' as this dear writer calls herself has ever been one of my favorites and one of my firsts. It is wonderful to read her here!! She is so very talented and I have never read another writer with such obvious research invested in her books.
This story is pleasing and satisfying with just the right amount of angst. Never is it overwhelming, only understandably appropriate. I also admire her ability to include so much information without ever leaving the reading feeling confused or like they've missed out, and yet she doesn't go on and on to the point of boredom. This is an excellent and important skill that I feel like so many writers do not have.
I am excited to continue to read more from this author!
I have read over 100 P&P variations over the last year (yes and truthfully, likely more) but I started reading on fanfiction.net. 'Astonishment' as this dear writer calls herself has ever been one of my favorites and one of my firsts. It is wonderful to read her here!! She is so very talented and I have never read another writer with such obvious research invested in her books.
This story is pleasing and satisfying with just the right amount of angst. Never is it overwhelming, only understandably appropriate. I also admire her ability to include so much information without ever leaving the reading feeling confused or like they've missed out, and yet she doesn't go on and on to the point of boredom. This is an excellent and important skill that I feel like so many writers do not have.
I am excited to continue to read more from this author!
February 25, 2022
As far as JAFF goes, this was a great story. The characters were believable and nothing was over the top. The main characters were unsure if each other but instead of letting misgivings fester, they talked about their concerns. The villains didn't end up with horrible futures-Wickham was transported, but is any JA character more deserving of that fate? Caroline falls from grace but manages a respectable marriage with a decent man.
Most importantly, there was no epilogue full of Mr. Bennet's 30+ grandchildren.
The writing itself could use some improvement. In places, it only needs editing. In other places, the story could be told vettee.
Most importantly, there was no epilogue full of Mr. Bennet's 30+ grandchildren.
The writing itself could use some improvement. In places, it only needs editing. In other places, the story could be told vettee.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2018
Very enjoyable
Although there are some minor errors - either grammatical or word choice - they do not detract from this entertaining story. I truly enjoyed the interactions of Elizabeth and Darcy. I like seeing Caroline paying for her cruelty. I have read many of this authors stories either at Amazon or at fanfiction.net and have enjoy many of them; some I have read twice.
Although there are some minor errors - either grammatical or word choice - they do not detract from this entertaining story. I truly enjoyed the interactions of Elizabeth and Darcy. I like seeing Caroline paying for her cruelty. I have read many of this authors stories either at Amazon or at fanfiction.net and have enjoy many of them; some I have read twice.
March 10, 2020
Truly interesting from beginning to end
This book has three section in which is different times in the romance of Darcy and Elizabeth. This was truly a remarkable variation in which Darcy Steps out of his comfort zone, but it takes Elizabeth a little while longer to open her eyes. Highly recommended to read and excellent storyline.
This book has three section in which is different times in the romance of Darcy and Elizabeth. This was truly a remarkable variation in which Darcy Steps out of his comfort zone, but it takes Elizabeth a little while longer to open her eyes. Highly recommended to read and excellent storyline.
May 7, 2023
Slow in parts
For the most part, this story wss ok. In places it went on too long. There was at least one editing problem that was a bit annoying. In it, Darcy has returned from London on Dec.30, however the wedding was to take place on the 27th of Dec. There wee a few other minor editing issues.
The very end is rushed.
For the most part, this story wss ok. In places it went on too long. There was at least one editing problem that was a bit annoying. In it, Darcy has returned from London on Dec.30, however the wedding was to take place on the 27th of Dec. There wee a few other minor editing issues.
The very end is rushed.
August 14, 2023
Wickham in Merryton. Rumors that nearly ruin the Bennets. A town turning against their own.
Caroline Bingley has long set her cap for Mr. Darcy, however, this time she's gone too far. Mr. Darcy must help protect Merryton and those he cares for. You'll find yourself wondering how so many assumptions can be made and laughing at the solutions. Enjoy!
Caroline Bingley has long set her cap for Mr. Darcy, however, this time she's gone too far. Mr. Darcy must help protect Merryton and those he cares for. You'll find yourself wondering how so many assumptions can be made and laughing at the solutions. Enjoy!
May 17, 2020
Author has a sense of humor
This one left me smiling. Not as angst ridden as some, but has its share of assumptions and misunderstandings to sort out. I loved the little gossipy asides. They’re just what would have been circulating in a small community.
This one left me smiling. Not as angst ridden as some, but has its share of assumptions and misunderstandings to sort out. I loved the little gossipy asides. They’re just what would have been circulating in a small community.
January 28, 2022
A good variation
I enjoyed this story and would read it again. The only problem I have with it is how Elizabeth was so blind. It took way too long for her to say the three words everyone wants to hear.
I enjoyed this story and would read it again. The only problem I have with it is how Elizabeth was so blind. It took way too long for her to say the three words everyone wants to hear.
March 24, 2017
Enjoyable
I didn't care for the author's continual recitation of poems and toasts by multiple characters. Lizzie's worked my nerves. Too descriptive in some places and not enough in others. Love scenes were very tasteful.
I didn't care for the author's continual recitation of poems and toasts by multiple characters. Lizzie's worked my nerves. Too descriptive in some places and not enough in others. Love scenes were very tasteful.
May 23, 2019
Lovely
An interesting variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic Pride and Prejudice by Cassandra B. Leigh. An enjoyable story to read
An interesting variation inspired by author Jane Austen’s classic Pride and Prejudice by Cassandra B. Leigh. An enjoyable story to read
April 23, 2022
2.5 rounded up to 3. Because Mr Darcy is absolutely adorable in this book. Even when he is insufferable… And Elizabeth is never annoying, even when she is being oblivious and stubborn…
November 28, 2022
Enjoyable
A soft read, would have like a little more of Lady CDB and daughter as well as Wickham. Except there is plenty of animosity without them from the towns people.
A soft read, would have like a little more of Lady CDB and daughter as well as Wickham. Except there is plenty of animosity without them from the towns people.
May 31, 2023
Someone saw Darcy and Lizzy unchaperoned while she stayed at Netherfield
March 3, 2015
Not what Austen herself would have written certainly, this is clearly the product of a modern author, especially with the need for vengeance and the emphasis on sex. There were no graphic scenes, but this is not how Austen would have written about newlyweds, I feel sure! She also seemed more forgiving of her villains. It's an entertaining read nonetheless. I could have done with fewer grammatical errors and typos. I hate to be perfectionist about that, but it is off-putting.
All that said, though, I found the story intriguing and entertaining.
All that said, though, I found the story intriguing and entertaining.
January 6, 2016
I liked this book and it was a quick read.
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