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Relentless Considerations: A Pride and Prejudice Novel
AUTHOR's Please read before purchasing this book. This is a "what if" book. It is not Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. This story is NOT cannon. If you are looking for that type of book, then perhaps this is not the book for you. If you are not, then please continue ...
Perception is reality - or is it?
Mr. Darcy is in love with the beautiful and witty Miss Elizabeth Bennet, but she is entirely unaware of his affections. Determined to spend more time with the beguiling young woman, Mr. Darcy decides to pay a visit to his aunt when he learns that Miss Elizabeth's cousin will soon be hosting her as a guest.As Mr. Darcy decides that he means to secure his future happiness, his cousin and dearest friend, Colonel Fitzwilliam, comes to the same realization. Seizing the opportunity to join Mr. Darcy, the colonel prepares to make a proposal of his own.
Will Colonel Fitzwilliam overcome the obstacles in his path? Will Mr. Darcy find the happiness he so desperately longs for, or will his misguided assumptions forestall his chance at finding love?
From bestselling author, Amy Cecil, comes a new variation of a timeless classic. Get your copy today and get lost in the regency world of Pride & Prejudice.
Perception is reality - or is it?
Mr. Darcy is in love with the beautiful and witty Miss Elizabeth Bennet, but she is entirely unaware of his affections. Determined to spend more time with the beguiling young woman, Mr. Darcy decides to pay a visit to his aunt when he learns that Miss Elizabeth's cousin will soon be hosting her as a guest.As Mr. Darcy decides that he means to secure his future happiness, his cousin and dearest friend, Colonel Fitzwilliam, comes to the same realization. Seizing the opportunity to join Mr. Darcy, the colonel prepares to make a proposal of his own.
Will Colonel Fitzwilliam overcome the obstacles in his path? Will Mr. Darcy find the happiness he so desperately longs for, or will his misguided assumptions forestall his chance at finding love?
From bestselling author, Amy Cecil, comes a new variation of a timeless classic. Get your copy today and get lost in the regency world of Pride & Prejudice.
- GenresHistoricalRomance
176 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2015
23 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Amy Cecil
52 books1,069 followersedit biographydelete
Biography
Amy Cecil is an award-winning Indie author of both historical and contemporary romance. Her penchant for Austen fan fiction, won her the title of Favorite Historical Romance Author (2016-2017) while her MC series has won several awards throughout the Indie community. Recently, she has expanded her repertoire to the thriller and erotic genres.
For as long as she can remember, Amy always had a book (or two) that she was reading for the love of getting lost within its pages. Amy has been heard to have said, “I’ve never given much thought to becoming a writer myself until I realized that if I hadn’t written my own version of Mr. Darcy, I might have run out of material to read.”
And thus, her first novel was born, A Royal Disposition. In the words of Miss Austen herself, “I wish as well as everybody else to be perfectly happy; but, like everybody else, it must be in my own way.” Ms. Cecil writes to do just that.
She lives in North Carolina with her husband, Kevin, and their four dogs. When she isn’t creating her next masterpiece, or traveling the country for book signings, she enjoys spending time with her husband, friends, and of course her fur babies.
“Face life as you find it-defiantly and unafraid.” -Nietzsche
You can follow Amy on the following:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoramycecil/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/authoramycecil
Twitter: https://twitter.com/acecil65
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/amycecil
Website: http://acecil65.wix.com/amycecil
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 11, 2015
I can only recommend this if you are interested in reading a Pride and Prejudice variation with very few changes in the plot, with really no exciting twists and little angst and definitely no sexual chemistry. The language was modern and Jane Austen’s quotes were changed only a little from canon. Darcy overcomes his pride more quickly than Elizabeth’s opinions of him due to his interference between Jane and Bingley and due to his treatment of Wickham – but then that isn’t new. Wickham does not appear in this story. And we really hear little of the three younger Bennet sisters although they lurk in the background. We hear more of their fates in the epilogue than in the main plot.
There are four people in love and there is a great deal of confusion on one person’s part due to the misinterpretation of a scene (NOT of words overheard nor of shared joys, just a simple scene misconstrued). But in the end there are happy endings and an epilogue which ties up the Bennet family’s life events.
As others have mentioned there are errors in calling Anne de Bourgh, "Lady Anne" and using "Your Grace" for Uncle Matlock. I will give a nod to creativity in having Lady Catherine with a hidden personality in which she gloats…~Let the world think of me as holding myself above others and thinking my opinion is the final word, etc. We find that she does want happiness for her dear ones…in this tale. That was a new thought pattern from that which we readers know of Lady C. in previous stories.
Darcy was portrayed as going above and beyond kindness when he not only believes he has lost Elizabeth to another man, but also in making sure that she and her family are provided for when tragedy strikes. BUT I have to say that when a man is injured severely enough to be on his death bed I doubt that he has the strength or energy or clearness of mind to carry on long and decisive conversations on any one day much less over several days! That was a bit unrealistic for me.
The ideas of cousins marrying or of the Colonel speaking up before Darcy are not new ones in P&P variations. There seem to be a few books written recently with the latter premise.
I borrowed this book on my kindle Unlimited account so can’t complain in thinking it could have been more interesting.
There are four people in love and there is a great deal of confusion on one person’s part due to the misinterpretation of a scene (NOT of words overheard nor of shared joys, just a simple scene misconstrued). But in the end there are happy endings and an epilogue which ties up the Bennet family’s life events.
As others have mentioned there are errors in calling Anne de Bourgh, "Lady Anne" and using "Your Grace" for Uncle Matlock. I will give a nod to creativity in having Lady Catherine with a hidden personality in which she gloats…~Let the world think of me as holding myself above others and thinking my opinion is the final word, etc. We find that she does want happiness for her dear ones…in this tale. That was a new thought pattern from that which we readers know of Lady C. in previous stories.
Darcy was portrayed as going above and beyond kindness when he not only believes he has lost Elizabeth to another man, but also in making sure that she and her family are provided for when tragedy strikes. BUT I have to say that when a man is injured severely enough to be on his death bed I doubt that he has the strength or energy or clearness of mind to carry on long and decisive conversations on any one day much less over several days! That was a bit unrealistic for me.
The ideas of cousins marrying or of the Colonel speaking up before Darcy are not new ones in P&P variations. There seem to be a few books written recently with the latter premise.
I borrowed this book on my kindle Unlimited account so can’t complain in thinking it could have been more interesting.
May 14, 2020
This is a bad book. It is a P&P what if that assumes you didn’t read P&P. Which seems odd. Now I must state that my first exposure to P&P was a P&P What if: Pride and Prescience: Or, A Truth Universally Acknowledged https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... And I didn’t need everything spelled out for me.
This book begins with Mr. Bennet mentally recapping P&P up to the Netherfield ball and I was cool this is from Mr. Bennet’s perspective. Alas no it is from everyone’s perspective. I’ve read many books from an omniscient narrators but this is dizzying. You get multiple perspectives in a single dialogue.
This is so bad I was desperately trying to discern the author’s motivation. At first I thought it was written for an audience of the profoundly stupid or the profoundly isolated. People who have no idea how conversation or novels work. There is never a point where one wonders how will a specific character feel because you are told immediately. and sometimes it is verbalized and thought in the same paragraph. in case you didn't get it the first time.
Then I thought no, it was a semi-decent P&P what if that was giving to someone who had no experience with P&P and every time they had a question the author incorporated the answer into the book.
Despite the seemingly endless explanations things are just baffling. Characters get dropped so Lizzy travels to Hunsford alone(??) And characters are ignored. When Lizzy rushes back to Meryton Jane is not mentioned for an extended period of time to the point that I just assumed she wasn’t there. Now leaving Lizzy’s dearest confidant out of a major part of the book is inexcusable.
The book is unsophisticated. Nothing is left to interpretation. The Regency manner errors abound. There is a plot point that Lizzy needs to rush to Meryton, but Col. Fitzwilliam can’t accompany them so they need a chaperon. Now in sane book Darcy grabs one of Lady C’s maids but of course that would be logical so Darcy goes to Collins (??) for a recommendation and Collins has an absurd knowledge of women seeking employment and finds Mrs. Annesley. (WTF BOOK). Mrs. Annesley sleeps the whole way to Meryton and when she gets to Longbourn takes a nap. (does she have narcolepsy?)
The author gives Anne de Bourgh a courtesy title, which she is not entitled to. And then beats you over the head with it.
Darcy is close to neurotic. He makes leaps of logic that are completely absurd. And then is in capable of clearing up this simple misunderstanding.
The author reuses JA word's in absurd ways. For example the scene where Lizzy confesses that she and Darcy are engaged to Jane is after Darcy has already asked Mrs. Bennet (who couldn't give it but that's another story) so the conversation is absurd.
At the end of the book the author thanks her betas and editors. I either want to buy those folks a drink or shake them and ask "what were you thinking?"
This is a terrible book
This book begins with Mr. Bennet mentally recapping P&P up to the Netherfield ball and I was cool this is from Mr. Bennet’s perspective. Alas no it is from everyone’s perspective. I’ve read many books from an omniscient narrators but this is dizzying. You get multiple perspectives in a single dialogue.
This is so bad I was desperately trying to discern the author’s motivation. At first I thought it was written for an audience of the profoundly stupid or the profoundly isolated. People who have no idea how conversation or novels work. There is never a point where one wonders how will a specific character feel because you are told immediately. and sometimes it is verbalized and thought in the same paragraph. in case you didn't get it the first time.
Then I thought no, it was a semi-decent P&P what if that was giving to someone who had no experience with P&P and every time they had a question the author incorporated the answer into the book.
Despite the seemingly endless explanations things are just baffling. Characters get dropped so Lizzy travels to Hunsford alone(??) And characters are ignored. When Lizzy rushes back to Meryton Jane is not mentioned for an extended period of time to the point that I just assumed she wasn’t there. Now leaving Lizzy’s dearest confidant out of a major part of the book is inexcusable.
The book is unsophisticated. Nothing is left to interpretation. The Regency manner errors abound. There is a plot point that Lizzy needs to rush to Meryton, but Col. Fitzwilliam can’t accompany them so they need a chaperon. Now in sane book Darcy grabs one of Lady C’s maids but of course that would be logical so Darcy goes to Collins (??) for a recommendation and Collins has an absurd knowledge of women seeking employment and finds Mrs. Annesley. (WTF BOOK). Mrs. Annesley sleeps the whole way to Meryton and when she gets to Longbourn takes a nap. (does she have narcolepsy?)
The author gives Anne de Bourgh a courtesy title, which she is not entitled to. And then beats you over the head with it.
Darcy is close to neurotic. He makes leaps of logic that are completely absurd. And then is in capable of clearing up this simple misunderstanding.
The author reuses JA word's in absurd ways. For example the scene where Lizzy confesses that she and Darcy are engaged to Jane is after Darcy has already asked Mrs. Bennet (who couldn't give it but that's another story) so the conversation is absurd.
At the end of the book the author thanks her betas and editors. I either want to buy those folks a drink or shake them and ask "what were you thinking?"
This is a terrible book
February 28, 2018
In this variation, unfortunately Elizabeth Bennet receives bad news when staying at Hunsford, before Darcy can propose. Misunderstanding do occur before she leave for Longbourn but not really a lot of angst. There is also a softer version of Lady Catherine, but very little or nothing of Wickham and Caroline Bingley.
Probably more a 2.5 stars
Probably more a 2.5 stars
January 23, 2016
Relentless Considerations is a very oddly written book. So odd that I found it too irritating to read and had to place it on my abandoned shelf. I did not even get far enough into the book to identify how it varied from the original. I just could not read anymore, as it was giving me a headache.
Relentless Considerations reads like the back story an author prepares for him/herself in order to have a full understanding of how they wish to present the characters and situations. The first few chapters are an in depth review of everything each character is thinking and feeling. In most well written fiction, we determine how a character is thinking and feeling by how they act and what they say, as well as how others interact with them and the dialogue between them. Instead, Amy Cecil tells us. This is an incredibly stiff and boring method of getting across information, much less telling a story.
One other irritating factor in the author's writing style is her use of words that initially sound correct, but are just slightly off in their definition. Some examples: Darcy is said to have a "shy countenance". But, countenance reflects emotions appearing on the face. Shyness is a state of being, not an emotion. Usually shyness is reflected in a persons actions - she shyly said, she looked down shyly, he smiled shyly, etc. Jane says "thoughts of Mr. Bingley have evaded her". Evade means to avoid. Usually we avoid thoughts, rather than thoughts avoiding us. Mr. Collins says Elizabeth will meet Lady Catherine on the "ensuing Sunday". Yes, ensuing means following, but it is really following as a consequence of something else. The ensuing courtship follows after speaking to the girl's father, etc. Sunday is going to happen whether or not anything else occurs. All of these words, and many more like them, are close, but just enough off to be irritating and to make the writing feel very strange.
I just couldn't continue reading this book. The author may wish to learn the importance of "show them, don't tell them" in writing fiction. I hate writing negative reviews like this, but I cannot recommend Relentless Considerations.
Relentless Considerations reads like the back story an author prepares for him/herself in order to have a full understanding of how they wish to present the characters and situations. The first few chapters are an in depth review of everything each character is thinking and feeling. In most well written fiction, we determine how a character is thinking and feeling by how they act and what they say, as well as how others interact with them and the dialogue between them. Instead, Amy Cecil tells us. This is an incredibly stiff and boring method of getting across information, much less telling a story.
One other irritating factor in the author's writing style is her use of words that initially sound correct, but are just slightly off in their definition. Some examples: Darcy is said to have a "shy countenance". But, countenance reflects emotions appearing on the face. Shyness is a state of being, not an emotion. Usually shyness is reflected in a persons actions - she shyly said, she looked down shyly, he smiled shyly, etc. Jane says "thoughts of Mr. Bingley have evaded her". Evade means to avoid. Usually we avoid thoughts, rather than thoughts avoiding us. Mr. Collins says Elizabeth will meet Lady Catherine on the "ensuing Sunday". Yes, ensuing means following, but it is really following as a consequence of something else. The ensuing courtship follows after speaking to the girl's father, etc. Sunday is going to happen whether or not anything else occurs. All of these words, and many more like them, are close, but just enough off to be irritating and to make the writing feel very strange.
I just couldn't continue reading this book. The author may wish to learn the importance of "show them, don't tell them" in writing fiction. I hate writing negative reviews like this, but I cannot recommend Relentless Considerations.
January 17, 2016
A cute new scenario.
This is my first book I've read by Amy Cecil. I truly enjoyed this new concept of hers. In Relentless Considerations, we see Elizabeth arriving at Hunsford by herself for a visit, and Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam arrive early to Rosings. The events in P&P that happened prior to Hunsford have already happened the same and we deter the course from here. With Anne de Bourgh showing her attentions to Col Fitzwilliam, Darcy has a long over due conversation with Lady Catherine. Though while in company, Col Fitzwilliam still shows more attention to Elizabeth, things aren't as we may believe. Even though Darcy knows differently, when he spies Col Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth in the grove his mind says something differently and is heartbroken. Col Fitzwilliam has promised Elizabeth his and Darcy's assistance when she receives terrible news from home. With the stage set we return to Longbourn with Darcy's heartbreaking and Elizabeth sad and confused.
MINOR SPOIL ALERT BELOW HERE!! READ ON AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!
There were minor things that bothered me and are why I marked this a 4 star rating. For one, Anne should not have the title of Lady because it doesn't pass down to her. For two, with Darcy and Col Fitzwilliam as close as brothers, I find the fact that Darcy was not told that Col Fitzwilliam and Anne are engaged is ludicrous!!! And three, with the knowledge that both Anne and Col Fitzwilliam loved each other and Col Fitzwilliam was preparing to propose, after seeing the scene in the grove, why didn't Darcy confront Col Fitzwilliam for supposed jilting of Anne?
I know that above sounds like a lot against this book, I have to say I really did enjoy it. Part of the plot was original which is also refreshing!!! I would recommend this to all JAFFers, though I would say just enjoy it for what it is.
This is my first book I've read by Amy Cecil. I truly enjoyed this new concept of hers. In Relentless Considerations, we see Elizabeth arriving at Hunsford by herself for a visit, and Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam arrive early to Rosings. The events in P&P that happened prior to Hunsford have already happened the same and we deter the course from here. With Anne de Bourgh showing her attentions to Col Fitzwilliam, Darcy has a long over due conversation with Lady Catherine. Though while in company, Col Fitzwilliam still shows more attention to Elizabeth, things aren't as we may believe. Even though Darcy knows differently, when he spies Col Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth in the grove his mind says something differently and is heartbroken. Col Fitzwilliam has promised Elizabeth his and Darcy's assistance when she receives terrible news from home. With the stage set we return to Longbourn with Darcy's heartbreaking and Elizabeth sad and confused.
MINOR SPOIL ALERT BELOW HERE!! READ ON AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!
There were minor things that bothered me and are why I marked this a 4 star rating. For one, Anne should not have the title of Lady because it doesn't pass down to her. For two, with Darcy and Col Fitzwilliam as close as brothers, I find the fact that Darcy was not told that Col Fitzwilliam and Anne are engaged is ludicrous!!! And three, with the knowledge that both Anne and Col Fitzwilliam loved each other and Col Fitzwilliam was preparing to propose, after seeing the scene in the grove, why didn't Darcy confront Col Fitzwilliam for supposed jilting of Anne?
I know that above sounds like a lot against this book, I have to say I really did enjoy it. Part of the plot was original which is also refreshing!!! I would recommend this to all JAFFers, though I would say just enjoy it for what it is.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2018
Having read and quite enjoyed other books by this author I was looking forward to this... and couldn't have been more disappointed. The story itself is based around a misunderstanding that seems ridiculous...
The story starts at Huntsford where Darcy realises Elizabeth does not think highly of him so makes the effort to improve. Elizabeth is then called home as Mr Bennet has been thrown from his horse and not expected to survive. In amongst all this, despite believing Colonel Fitzwilliam is in love with Anne de Bourgh, he believes the Colonel got engaged to Elizabeth before he left for France.
I don't know what to say about this book. The editing is terrible... Bennet sometimes spelled 'Bennett' sometimes not, Oakum mount, some thoughts in italics some not. It started to annoy me early on that we get the inner thoughts of the characters to fill in the back story which, surely in a book like this no one needs. Lady Catherine's character made no sense to me.... I think the author tried to make her a bit softer but used too many quotes similar to the original to really pull this off. The language was quite modern and American in style.
I don't really know what the plot was... it's as though there is a series of events but they aren't particularly interesting. I didn't feel any emotion between the characters. Things are explained rather than shown which probably explains this. I really struggled to get this finished and didn't enjoy it overall.
The story starts at Huntsford where Darcy realises Elizabeth does not think highly of him so makes the effort to improve. Elizabeth is then called home as Mr Bennet has been thrown from his horse and not expected to survive. In amongst all this, despite believing Colonel Fitzwilliam is in love with Anne de Bourgh, he believes the Colonel got engaged to Elizabeth before he left for France.
I don't know what to say about this book. The editing is terrible... Bennet sometimes spelled 'Bennett' sometimes not, Oakum mount, some thoughts in italics some not. It started to annoy me early on that we get the inner thoughts of the characters to fill in the back story which, surely in a book like this no one needs. Lady Catherine's character made no sense to me.... I think the author tried to make her a bit softer but used too many quotes similar to the original to really pull this off. The language was quite modern and American in style.
I don't really know what the plot was... it's as though there is a series of events but they aren't particularly interesting. I didn't feel any emotion between the characters. Things are explained rather than shown which probably explains this. I really struggled to get this finished and didn't enjoy it overall.
October 5, 2015
2.5 Stars
April 21, 2023
Quite lovely. This is a book that I will definitely be rereading in the future.
December 28, 2017
Relentless Considerations by Amy Cecil
Darcy is in love with the outspoken Elizbeth Bennet, but when he witnesses what he presumes to be an offer of marriage; he fears he is too late. Darcy never made a very good first impression with Elizabeth but he is trying his hardest to rectify this. While Elizabeth was shocked by Darcy rudeness on their first meeting she has held her contentment in. When they finally start to spend more time with one another they both realise their previous mistakes of pre judgement. When Elizabeth’s father is hurt, Darcy becomes her knight in shining armour. However he knows he has lost her heart to another man, or has he? Will Darcy finally managed to sway Elizabeth’s heart or was everything just one terrible misunderstanding?
I enjoyed this story.
Hot Books & Sassy Girls Blog
Darcy is in love with the outspoken Elizbeth Bennet, but when he witnesses what he presumes to be an offer of marriage; he fears he is too late. Darcy never made a very good first impression with Elizabeth but he is trying his hardest to rectify this. While Elizabeth was shocked by Darcy rudeness on their first meeting she has held her contentment in. When they finally start to spend more time with one another they both realise their previous mistakes of pre judgement. When Elizabeth’s father is hurt, Darcy becomes her knight in shining armour. However he knows he has lost her heart to another man, or has he? Will Darcy finally managed to sway Elizabeth’s heart or was everything just one terrible misunderstanding?
I enjoyed this story.
Hot Books & Sassy Girls Blog
January 30, 2016
Relentless
First off I read only 67% of this book. I was really hoping at some point it would improve. I started this book several months ago and had to put it down because I just couldn't go on. I saw it on my still reading list so I decided to pick it up. Well this story is truly tedious and I just can't go on.
Just to let potential readers know, this is definitely not cannon but what makes this difficult to read is that the basic story is told in such a watered down version. Imagine that Lady Cat wants Darcy to marry for love and she gives her blessing for Darcy to earn Elizabeth's love? Huh did I just step into a time warp? Collins ends up be nice and Mrs Bennet is not silly! Just couldn't take the sugar any more so the book is being closed forever!
Thank God! Now to move onto more pleasurable reading!
First off I read only 67% of this book. I was really hoping at some point it would improve. I started this book several months ago and had to put it down because I just couldn't go on. I saw it on my still reading list so I decided to pick it up. Well this story is truly tedious and I just can't go on.
Just to let potential readers know, this is definitely not cannon but what makes this difficult to read is that the basic story is told in such a watered down version. Imagine that Lady Cat wants Darcy to marry for love and she gives her blessing for Darcy to earn Elizabeth's love? Huh did I just step into a time warp? Collins ends up be nice and Mrs Bennet is not silly! Just couldn't take the sugar any more so the book is being closed forever!
Thank God! Now to move onto more pleasurable reading!
October 30, 2015
Relentless Considerations: A Tale of Pride and Prejudice
Really enjoyed this story. Caroline and Wickham were their usual hateful selves until they were stopped. Larry Catherine was really great in this story. Reminds me of the 1940's version of Pride and Prejudice movie with Laurence Olivier. Even though the couple didn't have as many disagreements as in Austen's Pride and Prejudice, there still were misunderstandings between them. Georgiana and Anne became friends with Elizabeth loving her upon meeting for the first time. The only sad part was when Mr. Bennet dies after a riding accident. He and Darcy became close and Darcy was given permission and blessings to marry Elizabeth. Once the confusion in Darcy's mind was cleared, the couple began their married life together. Thank you, Amy, for writing a wonderful tale.
Really enjoyed this story. Caroline and Wickham were their usual hateful selves until they were stopped. Larry Catherine was really great in this story. Reminds me of the 1940's version of Pride and Prejudice movie with Laurence Olivier. Even though the couple didn't have as many disagreements as in Austen's Pride and Prejudice, there still were misunderstandings between them. Georgiana and Anne became friends with Elizabeth loving her upon meeting for the first time. The only sad part was when Mr. Bennet dies after a riding accident. He and Darcy became close and Darcy was given permission and blessings to marry Elizabeth. Once the confusion in Darcy's mind was cleared, the couple began their married life together. Thank you, Amy, for writing a wonderful tale.
January 26, 2018
Very sweet but dry story, lacking in romance, passion or anything else to make it engaging.
Reuse of canon in new and old settings did not work very well either. For instant: Elizabeth received a letter, stating that her father had been thrown from his horse and the prognosis was not good. She turns and states that "we have not the slightest hope". This reuse feels to much of an exaggeration to ring true. There are many other examples but I will not bore you with more...
Entering at Hunsford, small differences from canon leaves Elizabeth a little less prejudice and Darcy a bit more in tune with Elizabeth's dislike of him. A misunderstanding about a bethrotal, drives a wedge between ODC. That does not deter Darcy from assisting Elizabeth home when her father falls ill though.
2.5* rounded up to 3* as it failed to captivate or engage me.
Reuse of canon in new and old settings did not work very well either. For instant: Elizabeth received a letter, stating that her father had been thrown from his horse and the prognosis was not good. She turns and states that "we have not the slightest hope". This reuse feels to much of an exaggeration to ring true. There are many other examples but I will not bore you with more...
Entering at Hunsford, small differences from canon leaves Elizabeth a little less prejudice and Darcy a bit more in tune with Elizabeth's dislike of him. A misunderstanding about a bethrotal, drives a wedge between ODC. That does not deter Darcy from assisting Elizabeth home when her father falls ill though.
2.5* rounded up to 3* as it failed to captivate or engage me.
Read
September 10, 2015This is a sweet story but...
While this story does have a few twists that aren't the norm for variations, there are still so many problems with it. An example being when Elizabeth meets Lord Matlock and refers to him as "your Grace" instead of my Lord. Perhaps I could have overlooked such errors if I had gotten wrapped up in the story but it just felt like reading words on the page. There was no depth. Also, Elizabeth's conversation with Lady Catherine near the end was almost like the 1940s movie version of P&P. Why would Darcy subject Elizabeth to that even if Lady Catherine meant well?
While this story does have a few twists that aren't the norm for variations, there are still so many problems with it. An example being when Elizabeth meets Lord Matlock and refers to him as "your Grace" instead of my Lord. Perhaps I could have overlooked such errors if I had gotten wrapped up in the story but it just felt like reading words on the page. There was no depth. Also, Elizabeth's conversation with Lady Catherine near the end was almost like the 1940s movie version of P&P. Why would Darcy subject Elizabeth to that even if Lady Catherine meant well?
September 10, 2020
Although I generally like my JAFF stories to follow canon, this one was well paced.
The author did not add a large number of new characters, which is another positive.
There were a few points which were questionable:
(1) Anne de Bourgh is not called "Lady Anne" for she is the daughter of a baronet, who is a commoner, not part of the aristocracy. The "Lady Anne" in the original story is Mr. Darcy's mother, Lady Anne Fitzwilliam, the daughter of an earl, thus, she is allowed the courtesy title of "Lady."
(2) One would not refer to an earl by "Your Grace." That would be reserved for a duke or duchess, as well as archbishops.
Words like "soulmate," "honeymoon," and "had no filter" sound too modern.
The author also switches point of view between paragraphs, changing back and forth.
The author did not add a large number of new characters, which is another positive.
There were a few points which were questionable:
(1) Anne de Bourgh is not called "Lady Anne" for she is the daughter of a baronet, who is a commoner, not part of the aristocracy. The "Lady Anne" in the original story is Mr. Darcy's mother, Lady Anne Fitzwilliam, the daughter of an earl, thus, she is allowed the courtesy title of "Lady."
(2) One would not refer to an earl by "Your Grace." That would be reserved for a duke or duchess, as well as archbishops.
Words like "soulmate," "honeymoon," and "had no filter" sound too modern.
The author also switches point of view between paragraphs, changing back and forth.
November 22, 2017
So Vastly Different
This was quite different from the much beloved original novel which was to be expected and is highly commendable. I absolutely adore those differences in that they gave us deeper insights into each well loved character's thoughts ♡ I must say they I was left very bereft by the passing of one very pivotal character from the original version whom I've always held great affection for, however without this passing the story could not have followed in the path it took. Pride and Prejudice has always held a special place within my heart. This novel so wonderfully penned by Ms. Cecil did not in any way take away from Ms. Austen's world. I can appreciate the careful thought and expertly crafted attention to detail that Ms. Cecil has accomplished. Well done and bravo ♡♡♡♡
This was quite different from the much beloved original novel which was to be expected and is highly commendable. I absolutely adore those differences in that they gave us deeper insights into each well loved character's thoughts ♡ I must say they I was left very bereft by the passing of one very pivotal character from the original version whom I've always held great affection for, however without this passing the story could not have followed in the path it took. Pride and Prejudice has always held a special place within my heart. This novel so wonderfully penned by Ms. Cecil did not in any way take away from Ms. Austen's world. I can appreciate the careful thought and expertly crafted attention to detail that Ms. Cecil has accomplished. Well done and bravo ♡♡♡♡
January 16, 2018
Cecil created in depth characters, making Darcy rather introverted, but caring. Elizabeth grew by leaps and bounds through the book. I was excited to watch her change her feelings the more she got to know Darcy. I loved that the Cecil recreated the language and the atmosphere of society at the time the book has taken place. One of my favorite lines in the book is when Darcy is talking to Bingley, who is engaged to Elizabeth's sister, and Bingley says "Is it not amazing how, once you settle on the future course of your life, you want to start it as soon as possible?" I think that is so true of all of our adventures in life, especially marriage. This was a good and unique take of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.
February 24, 2020
One of the better variations.
I don't write what the plots are, as whenever you look up a book it tells you.
Close to the original characters, with about of a twist. Lady Catherine's meeting with Elizabeth reminded me of the old Pride and Prejudice movie, which I enjoyed.
I didn't notice any blaring typos or mistakes. If there were any,I was too invested in the plot to notice.
I'm keeping this one on my kindle as I'm sure I'll read again.
I do recommend it. Though, have tissues nearby.
I don't write what the plots are, as whenever you look up a book it tells you.
Close to the original characters, with about of a twist. Lady Catherine's meeting with Elizabeth reminded me of the old Pride and Prejudice movie, which I enjoyed.
I didn't notice any blaring typos or mistakes. If there were any,I was too invested in the plot to notice.
I'm keeping this one on my kindle as I'm sure I'll read again.
I do recommend it. Though, have tissues nearby.
March 23, 2018
I love Pride and Prejudice. This is a wonderful version of that amazing story. Amy writes with such passion and it shows in her stories. If you have ever wondered what if with Elizabeth and Darcy this is a must read.
June 26, 2020
Meh.
Not my favorite by this author. It all seemed forced. I didn’t really enjoy the storyline either. There didn’t seem to be much depth to the characters. I somehow got through it.
Not my favorite by this author. It all seemed forced. I didn’t really enjoy the storyline either. There didn’t seem to be much depth to the characters. I somehow got through it.
May 5, 2022
A very different version
I enjoyed this version very much without some of the drama. I did miss Caroline. I would recommend this version for a very pleasant evening read.
I enjoyed this version very much without some of the drama. I did miss Caroline. I would recommend this version for a very pleasant evening read.
December 16, 2025
Lovely
What a nice story. It reminded me a little of the Pride and Prejudice from 1935, with Sir Laurence Olivier. I would recommend reading this story.
What a nice story. It reminded me a little of the Pride and Prejudice from 1935, with Sir Laurence Olivier. I would recommend reading this story.
October 27, 2015
The least of the offenses is the author's modern language and sophomoric writing. For someone who claims to be a member of the JAS of NA, the author continually placed Elizabeth in scandalous situations beyond propriety that would have ruined her reputation and family, yet writes the scenes as if it was completely normal circumstances of the time. The behavior by both Darcy and Richard is so out of character that they didn't at all resemble JA's beloved gentlemen. The last third of the book occurs after a death and is the final nail in the book's own coffin. To completely disregard all societal expectations of the mourning rules, rituals, and customs ruined any pittance of early 1800s England the author had tried and failed to depict. Other than having the same names as JA's characters, this book has no other resemblance to even a poor variation of P&P.
July 24, 2021
Sweet and Low Angst
This was a nice easy read, that took a slightly idealistic route rather far from Canon. This version highlights constancy and the lengths people will go for true love. Elizabeth is a kind and friendly version bit I didn't feel her very teasing or witty until near the end. There were several conversations were she was described thus but we were not privy to the explicit dialogue.
Editing: I only noticed one error with number while reading with text to speech.
Sexy-times: No, this is a sweet romance.
HEA: Yes, all's well in the end.
Recommended: Yes
Reread: Yes, I've read it twice with years between sessions, so that I didn't remember the storyline before re-reading.
This was a nice easy read, that took a slightly idealistic route rather far from Canon. This version highlights constancy and the lengths people will go for true love. Elizabeth is a kind and friendly version bit I didn't feel her very teasing or witty until near the end. There were several conversations were she was described thus but we were not privy to the explicit dialogue.
Editing: I only noticed one error with number while reading with text to speech.
Sexy-times: No, this is a sweet romance.
HEA: Yes, all's well in the end.
Recommended: Yes
Reread: Yes, I've read it twice with years between sessions, so that I didn't remember the storyline before re-reading.
September 21, 2015
Story starts off in Kent.. Elizabeth starts to see a different side to Darcy but Darcy fears that she has become secretly engaged to Colonel Fitzwilliam who is called away to France on a military campaign. Darcy must help Elizabeth return to Longbourn quickly when she learns her father is on her deathbed. Darcy quickly forms a trust with Mr Bennet and agrees to assist Elizabeth with managing the estate. Time spent together causes Darcy heartache as he believes Elizabeth engaged to his cousin while Elizabeth is falling in love with Darcy. Then we have the side story of Anne & Colonel Fitzwilliam, Bingley & Jane and even lady Catherine's character gets an interesting transformation.
January 3, 2016
A very acceptable variation on Pride & Prejudice. It is a nice story, although with a sad difference for one character. Although Lady Catherine appears much the same on the surface, her nature and motives are far pleasanter and I liked this aspect immensely. Mr Collins appears at one point to become more mature in his outlook, but later does something which appears downright nasty so the treatment here was a little uneven. Although the two main love stories, as usual, end happily the other three Bennett sisters are left rather high & dry at the end, as if the author could not be bothered to expend any effort at all on them. On the whole, though, a nice easy read.
October 31, 2015
The idea for the story is fine. The story itself was weak. You have quotes from P&P to keep the story true to the original, but it felt historically inaccurate. Proposing marriage so soon after the death of a parent, the lack of proper behaviour at times, etc. The characters felt completely out of character and were almost felt rewritten.
January 23, 2017
Truly charming
Amy did a great job of keeping the characters true to their natures. Darcy is reserved, Elizabeth playful,and they never seem to be able to say what they think. Plot twist is intriguing.
Amy did a great job of keeping the characters true to their natures. Darcy is reserved, Elizabeth playful,and they never seem to be able to say what they think. Plot twist is intriguing.
March 25, 2017
I love pride and prejudice,one of my favorite novels and this retelling was great. There were some different points in the story from the original but that's what made it special. While most of the characters remained the same as far as personality some did not which made it an intresting twist to the story. I loved the easy banter between Darcy and Elizabeth ,you get to read more into their relationship which I loved . Five Stars
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