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Compromised!: A Pride and Prejudice Variation
In marriage-minded Regency England, one simple word can ruin your life. Compromise! can bring down a virtuous maiden, like Miss Elizabeth Bennet, and her entire family along with her. When Elizabeth finds Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy outside Netherfield, alone and at his most vulnerable, she must make a quick decision to bend the rules of propriety to help him or turn her back on someone in need. Her tender heart reaches out to him and his wounded one grabs hold of her well-intentioned support. Discovery changes the course of their lives as Elizabeth is forced to accept a reluctant proposal of marriage from this man whom she has just barely begun to respect. Can Jane Austen's most beloved couple reach a compromise that might turn a tenuous friendship into a loving marriage? Will it survive as desperate, unscrupulous, and foolish people alike set compromising machinations into motion for their own greedy ends? Follow Elizabeth and Darcy in this novel-length Regency romance as J. Dawn King takes them through a sweet variation of Pride and Prejudice where compromises abound and outcomes will surprise you. BONUS PREVIEW INCLUDED: The Trouble With Horses by Elizabeth Ann West
258 pages, Paperback
First published August 20, 2015
390 people are currently reading
369 people want to read
About the author
J. Dawn King
21 books181 followersI go by the name "Joy". There is a well-published author that uses my full name (including the same middle initial). Imagine that!
I also write as Christie Capps. These are all variations of Pride and Prejudice that are about 100-120 pages in length.
I also write as Christie Capps. These are all variations of Pride and Prejudice that are about 100-120 pages in length.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
August 23, 2015
Yes, as stated in another review on Amazon, the author would have been justified in adding an "s" to the end of her title. This book is delightful in giving us that situation in seriousness, in chance and in humor as we read of more than one couple's coming together..."when you plan a trick on someone to get them alone" (as explained by a certain aunt to her niece).
The characters of Darcy and Elizabeth are written with such poignancy in the very first instance of our reading, setting the stage for their coming together, that I had to pause, sigh and speculate on how well the author writes to draw us in and to allow us to love both figures. Darcy has already insulted Elizabeth at the Assembly, she has had to put up with his (and Caroline's) disdain and insults while nursing Jane when he receives a letter from Georgiana and then leaves the table without a word.
When we next find Darcy we read of a man in torment, in anguish, bemoaning his sister's self loathing and desire to live in isolation from the family and then we read as he falls apart, in tears and sobbing as he feels he has failed her and cannot see how he can proceed to help and guide her. He does this, in contrast to all we have read and think we know about him, as he believes he is alone in a glen far from the eyes and ears of any other human being.
But Elizabeth has taken one of her "famous" walks and overhears the outburst of a tortured soul. She tries to gain his attention after considering if she even wants to inquire and perhaps offer aid (considering just who it is she has come upon). Her caring attribute wins out. He does not hear her call his name and she approaches closer. When he finally is startled by her words and presence his reaction, a natural reaction to him, is to grab Elizabeth and hold her in his embrace as he further loses all aspects of control over his emotions.
Yes, I am just reviewing what the book description tells us but wanted to reiterate this scene as later we read of Darcy telling Elizabeth how when she put her arms around him he felt safe for the first time. This tells us so much about how much she means to him, even if she thinks just the opposite.
Elizabeth is not in love with Darcy at this point in time but this scene and then the proposal scene are just so heavy with sweet emotions that they continue to bring tears to my eyes. Yes, even though there is a compromise, Darcy does get down on one knee and the way in which Elizabeth questions the wisdom of doing as society dictates show us her true insight into what will be required in this relationship if they must be married.
I love all the interplay between ODC in this book. Darcy calling her “my Elizabeth” and Elizabeth reveling in the experience of her first kiss…sigh! Then there are all those characters with whom we are all so familiar: Wickham, Caroline, Charlotte, Richard Fitzwilliam with his parents, Anne DeBourgh and her mother, Lady Catherine, Mr. Collins and even dear sister, Mary, play parts in intrigue, plotting, confrontations and situations both downright funny but also most satisfying. At about 75% on my kindle I was applauding Mrs. Bennet’s words! Yes, Mrs. Bennet’s words. Cheering, Hallelujah!
I loved the way the relationship between Bingley and Jane was made to develop and mature. Well done. We are kept in suspense as to just who will end up with who as the author forces us to read of disappointments, misguided actions and manipulations in this tale. I was very happy with it all and then further loved the follow up at the end.
I have to add that near the end I again had tears but not over ODC…over another relationship and the caring of one human being for another through one’s final demise. Again, well written.
Please do take the time to read this. I am sure you will not be disappointed.
The characters of Darcy and Elizabeth are written with such poignancy in the very first instance of our reading, setting the stage for their coming together, that I had to pause, sigh and speculate on how well the author writes to draw us in and to allow us to love both figures. Darcy has already insulted Elizabeth at the Assembly, she has had to put up with his (and Caroline's) disdain and insults while nursing Jane when he receives a letter from Georgiana and then leaves the table without a word.
When we next find Darcy we read of a man in torment, in anguish, bemoaning his sister's self loathing and desire to live in isolation from the family and then we read as he falls apart, in tears and sobbing as he feels he has failed her and cannot see how he can proceed to help and guide her. He does this, in contrast to all we have read and think we know about him, as he believes he is alone in a glen far from the eyes and ears of any other human being.
But Elizabeth has taken one of her "famous" walks and overhears the outburst of a tortured soul. She tries to gain his attention after considering if she even wants to inquire and perhaps offer aid (considering just who it is she has come upon). Her caring attribute wins out. He does not hear her call his name and she approaches closer. When he finally is startled by her words and presence his reaction, a natural reaction to him, is to grab Elizabeth and hold her in his embrace as he further loses all aspects of control over his emotions.
Yes, I am just reviewing what the book description tells us but wanted to reiterate this scene as later we read of Darcy telling Elizabeth how when she put her arms around him he felt safe for the first time. This tells us so much about how much she means to him, even if she thinks just the opposite.
Elizabeth is not in love with Darcy at this point in time but this scene and then the proposal scene are just so heavy with sweet emotions that they continue to bring tears to my eyes. Yes, even though there is a compromise, Darcy does get down on one knee and the way in which Elizabeth questions the wisdom of doing as society dictates show us her true insight into what will be required in this relationship if they must be married.
I love all the interplay between ODC in this book. Darcy calling her “my Elizabeth” and Elizabeth reveling in the experience of her first kiss…sigh! Then there are all those characters with whom we are all so familiar: Wickham, Caroline, Charlotte, Richard Fitzwilliam with his parents, Anne DeBourgh and her mother, Lady Catherine, Mr. Collins and even dear sister, Mary, play parts in intrigue, plotting, confrontations and situations both downright funny but also most satisfying. At about 75% on my kindle I was applauding Mrs. Bennet’s words! Yes, Mrs. Bennet’s words. Cheering, Hallelujah!
I loved the way the relationship between Bingley and Jane was made to develop and mature. Well done. We are kept in suspense as to just who will end up with who as the author forces us to read of disappointments, misguided actions and manipulations in this tale. I was very happy with it all and then further loved the follow up at the end.
I have to add that near the end I again had tears but not over ODC…over another relationship and the caring of one human being for another through one’s final demise. Again, well written.
Please do take the time to read this. I am sure you will not be disappointed.
September 21, 2022
A Romp of Compromises
Reviewed in Canada on September 2, 2019
A story of multiple compromises with some Wylie Coyote results! My favorite part of this story was the beginning compromise of ODC. Oh the endearing moment of comfort Elizabeth gives Darcy. Very touching and sweet. The villains get their just due and our favorites all get their HEA. This isn’t one of JDK’s deepest storylines, but still well written and very enjoyable.
September 21, 2022 - Audiobook
Another excellent five-star performance by Stevie Zimmerman.
Reviewed in Canada on September 2, 2019
A story of multiple compromises with some Wylie Coyote results! My favorite part of this story was the beginning compromise of ODC. Oh the endearing moment of comfort Elizabeth gives Darcy. Very touching and sweet. The villains get their just due and our favorites all get their HEA. This isn’t one of JDK’s deepest storylines, but still well written and very enjoyable.
September 21, 2022 - Audiobook
Another excellent five-star performance by Stevie Zimmerman.
January 16, 2023
There is something about listening to a book that ups it to an even more enjoyable level!
I love both the drama and humorous aspects of this story.
One can get whiplash between all the different scenarios that take place in a very short time. At the same time, there is a dark undertone on the part of several people conspiring to take freedom and choice away from a few of the heroines involved.
In all it is a light-hearted story as punishment and consequence are not really dwelled on and only a couple of the baddies ends are revealed in the epilogue.
My sincerest thanks to J. Dawn King for offering this audiobook on her YouTube channel!
I enjoyed my work day due to this listen.
I love both the drama and humorous aspects of this story.
One can get whiplash between all the different scenarios that take place in a very short time. At the same time, there is a dark undertone on the part of several people conspiring to take freedom and choice away from a few of the heroines involved.
In all it is a light-hearted story as punishment and consequence are not really dwelled on and only a couple of the baddies ends are revealed in the epilogue.
My sincerest thanks to J. Dawn King for offering this audiobook on her YouTube channel!
I enjoyed my work day due to this listen.
March 23, 2023
Still one of my favorite reads. It doesn't take itself seriously. Not a lot of romance angst but lots of drama trying to split up ODC. I think i love this version because its the only one where I think Caroline gets a fitting punishment. HA! Fantastic!
October 4, 2017
This started out pretty silly but was outright ridiculous by the end.
April 16, 2021
A cringe-y read, out of character and wit Darcy and Lizzy, and not Austen.
I try to finish everything when I read so I can form a full opinion, but this was the rare case where I found it torturous to do so.
I thus issue a disclaimer to this review by stating I got only half way through the novel, to chapter 13.
I tried, I really did, but in the end life is too short and JAFF is plentiful and much is excellent, I couldn't justify the pain it brought on my eyes and the equanimity it robbed me of.
Synopsis:
Lizzy stumbles upon Darcy in the Netherfield surrounding woods during a walk while tending to Jane. He is in major distress over a letter from Georgiana.
Lizzy approaches him out of compassion and comforts him allowing a hug, they spend some time talking and Lizzy softens to Darcy.
However when they prepare quit the woods to rejoin the party inside Netherfield a local hired servant looking for Lizzy finds them alone in the woods, Darcy without proper outerwear, as he had hasted out to read the note.
Lizzy without her bonnet or gloves, because you know Lizzy- she loves to risk propriety and court compromise by wandering alone secluded tracks and shrugging off accessories to sweeten the pot.
Although they didn’t do anything actually improper, at least not with romantic intention, they are compromised and Darcy proposes immediately, secretly relieved he has an excuse to marry her.
Lizzy is very open to it after seeing him so vulnerable, and they both a la Romeo and Juliet become way too besotted with little reason and far too rapidly.
Lizzy exudes want-wit energy with Wickham, she is naive to knaves to the point you'll think she’s Kitty! Though the issue is resolved neatly and quickly.
Though in saving Lizzy from her idiocy, Charlotte takes the compromise bullet from Wickham!
The odd thing is Charlotte could have grabbed Lizzy, she walks past her into the library to Wickham! Charlotte straight up was like, ‘Might as well get a first kiss out of this’
Charlotte Lucas:
Which if one is never kissed at 27 and a handsome man presents himself, I guess I get the inclination!
Now Caroline tries twice to compromise two people up to where I read, and I found it so amusing that each time she’d yell, as one would when playing Uno or Jenga, ‘Compromise!’ and then point!
i.e.
Caroline:
What I enjoyed:
-Mary
-The occasional line;
What Displeased Me:
✗I think Lizzy and Darcy should never have to be dumbed down due to lack of ingenuity with a smart scheme. The scheme should be brilliant and ODC allowed to be intelligent. Like in a horror movie, having sensible characters make similar choices you would make and still fall prey makes it more scintillating!
✗It’s hard to trudge through, these aren't Austen characters, Lizzy and Darcy are loggergeaded and hasty to mutual infatuation that its uncomfortable and enjoyable. Compromised!: A Pride & Prejudice Variation has it’s streaks of reason seasoned through, but its corniness make for an intolerably cringe inducing read.
✗Darcy overreacted with the weeping, I thought Richard died in battle or Georgie committed suicide, but she’s just sad and going to vacation in their Scotland property !
Georgiana to Fitzwilliam in the letter:
Fitzwilliam when he reads Georgie needs a vacation:
Hardly 6 feet under, and I would understand distress, but Darcy is straight up screaming to the gods and weeping!
✗Reading Mr Darcy crying is akin to seeing your mother cry, its hard to watch, and it was for such a weak reason! He clearly isn't all too worried because right after he starts planning his engagement, hardly in a rush to Scotland!
Pardon, did he just state (Albeit accidentally, due to poor wording), that the more time he is in Lizzy’s company the lower his worth falls? Lady Catherine would heartily agree!
Conclusion:
Has some cute little lines sprinkled about, its not offensive but by no means tolerable. I had a hard time focusing on the story, it grew tedious.
I am confused by the positive reviews; either we got a bunch of sweet Jane reviewers who cant speak ill to the point of courting deceit, or the disparity in JAFF taste is akin to a chasm.
I try to finish everything when I read so I can form a full opinion, but this was the rare case where I found it torturous to do so.
I thus issue a disclaimer to this review by stating I got only half way through the novel, to chapter 13.
I tried, I really did, but in the end life is too short and JAFF is plentiful and much is excellent, I couldn't justify the pain it brought on my eyes and the equanimity it robbed me of.
Synopsis:
Lizzy stumbles upon Darcy in the Netherfield surrounding woods during a walk while tending to Jane. He is in major distress over a letter from Georgiana.
Lizzy approaches him out of compassion and comforts him allowing a hug, they spend some time talking and Lizzy softens to Darcy.
However when they prepare quit the woods to rejoin the party inside Netherfield a local hired servant looking for Lizzy finds them alone in the woods, Darcy without proper outerwear, as he had hasted out to read the note.
Lizzy without her bonnet or gloves, because you know Lizzy- she loves to risk propriety and court compromise by wandering alone secluded tracks and shrugging off accessories to sweeten the pot.
Although they didn’t do anything actually improper, at least not with romantic intention, they are compromised and Darcy proposes immediately, secretly relieved he has an excuse to marry her.
Lizzy is very open to it after seeing him so vulnerable, and they both a la Romeo and Juliet become way too besotted with little reason and far too rapidly.
Lizzy exudes want-wit energy with Wickham, she is naive to knaves to the point you'll think she’s Kitty! Though the issue is resolved neatly and quickly.
“What a terrible mess we have made by not putting a name to that villain.”
Though in saving Lizzy from her idiocy, Charlotte takes the compromise bullet from Wickham!
The odd thing is Charlotte could have grabbed Lizzy, she walks past her into the library to Wickham! Charlotte straight up was like, ‘Might as well get a first kiss out of this’
Charlotte Lucas:
Which if one is never kissed at 27 and a handsome man presents himself, I guess I get the inclination!
Now Caroline tries twice to compromise two people up to where I read, and I found it so amusing that each time she’d yell, as one would when playing Uno or Jenga, ‘Compromise!’ and then point!
i.e.
“Compromise!” they both exclaimed loudly.”
Caroline:
What I enjoyed:
-Mary
-The occasional line;
“The place settings were elegant; the conversation was not.”
“Kitty and Lydia were still at home with their family. Though the militia had been away from Meryton for more than half a decade, neither girl lost their love of a red coat. They both determined to marry for only the deepest love—as long as the groom was an officer.”
What Displeased Me:
✗I think Lizzy and Darcy should never have to be dumbed down due to lack of ingenuity with a smart scheme. The scheme should be brilliant and ODC allowed to be intelligent. Like in a horror movie, having sensible characters make similar choices you would make and still fall prey makes it more scintillating!
✗It’s hard to trudge through, these aren't Austen characters, Lizzy and Darcy are loggergeaded and hasty to mutual infatuation that its uncomfortable and enjoyable. Compromised!: A Pride & Prejudice Variation has it’s streaks of reason seasoned through, but its corniness make for an intolerably cringe inducing read.
✗Darcy overreacted with the weeping, I thought Richard died in battle or Georgie committed suicide, but she’s just sad and going to vacation in their Scotland property !
Georgiana to Fitzwilliam in the letter:
Fitzwilliam when he reads Georgie needs a vacation:
Hardly 6 feet under, and I would understand distress, but Darcy is straight up screaming to the gods and weeping!
✗Reading Mr Darcy crying is akin to seeing your mother cry, its hard to watch, and it was for such a weak reason! He clearly isn't all too worried because right after he starts planning his engagement, hardly in a rush to Scotland!
“It has been humbling to find I had nothing to attract your daughter. Nothing! The more time I spent in her company, the more I realized her value. My own worth, however, plummeted with each interaction.”
Pardon, did he just state (Albeit accidentally, due to poor wording), that the more time he is in Lizzy’s company the lower his worth falls? Lady Catherine would heartily agree!
Conclusion:
Has some cute little lines sprinkled about, its not offensive but by no means tolerable. I had a hard time focusing on the story, it grew tedious.
I am confused by the positive reviews; either we got a bunch of sweet Jane reviewers who cant speak ill to the point of courting deceit, or the disparity in JAFF taste is akin to a chasm.
September 19, 2015
Note: I really liked this book as I read it but it the light of day and reflection I find myself liking it less.
Do you like angst with your Pride and Prejudice? Really like angst, think Jane Austen was way too generous with her characters? This is a mad cap, angst mix up. The only trope missing is that Lizzy never sprains her ankle nor is she successfully kidnapped.
The story opens while Lizzy and Jane are staying at Netherfield. Whilst walking Lizzy encounters an anguished Mr. Darcy and offers him solace. He unburdens his conscience regarding Georgiana and her current melancholy. While Dr. Lizzy; she asks therapist like questions, counsels Mr. Darcy they spend time alone in the woods and are discovered by a Netherfield footman and are thus 'compromised'. In the original book Lizzy walks with Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam at Rosings and Darcy and Caroline stroll the Netherfield gardens yet never are compromised. But almost instantly Darcy is on a knee proposing to save Elizabeth's reputation.
Mr. Bennet is reluctant to give his permission and refuses Lizzy permission to marry from Longbourn chapel. Miss Bingley reacts badly. In the next 24 hours Lizzy will be angry at both her father and Darcy. Darcy heads for London and the whole story gets more madcap, convoluted and angsty.
Caroline and Wickham create trouble, the Fitzwilliams and Lady Catherine descend upon Meryton, Mr. Collins arrives and creates mayhem. The book bounces from confrontation, to angst, to confrontation. But eventually good and smart overcomes evil and stupid and Darcy and Lizzy are wed. Then you are treated to not one but two epilogues.
Do you like angst with your Pride and Prejudice? Really like angst, think Jane Austen was way too generous with her characters? This is a mad cap, angst mix up. The only trope missing is that Lizzy never sprains her ankle nor is she successfully kidnapped.
The story opens while Lizzy and Jane are staying at Netherfield. Whilst walking Lizzy encounters an anguished Mr. Darcy and offers him solace. He unburdens his conscience regarding Georgiana and her current melancholy. While Dr. Lizzy; she asks therapist like questions, counsels Mr. Darcy they spend time alone in the woods and are discovered by a Netherfield footman and are thus 'compromised'. In the original book Lizzy walks with Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam at Rosings and Darcy and Caroline stroll the Netherfield gardens yet never are compromised. But almost instantly Darcy is on a knee proposing to save Elizabeth's reputation.
Mr. Bennet is reluctant to give his permission and refuses Lizzy permission to marry from Longbourn chapel. Miss Bingley reacts badly. In the next 24 hours Lizzy will be angry at both her father and Darcy. Darcy heads for London and the whole story gets more madcap, convoluted and angsty.
Caroline and Wickham create trouble, the Fitzwilliams and Lady Catherine descend upon Meryton, Mr. Collins arrives and creates mayhem. The book bounces from confrontation, to angst, to confrontation. But eventually good and smart overcomes evil and stupid and Darcy and Lizzy are wed. Then you are treated to not one but two epilogues.
July 18, 2021
Compromised is full of compromises and was a lot of fun. Short and light with extreme characters. The Bingley in this book may be my least favorite Bingley of all time.
Reread: Love this book. Yes, wish Jane had chosen someone else!
Reread: Love!
Reread: Love this book. Yes, wish Jane had chosen someone else!
Reread: Love!
January 20, 2016
Compromised! - A Pride and Prejudice Variation
What an enjoyable story about unintentional compromise of Elizabeth Bennet by Fitzwilliam Darcy. Sobbing over a letter he received from Georgiana, even though she dislike him going into that part of the garden, giving him comfort and trying to find a way to help him, she walked out realizing she judge him wrong. Preparing to leave the garden one of Bingley's newly hired footman catches them before Elizabeth can leave. Both realized, he without his coat, hat, and gloves and she without her bonnet, that the footman problem would gossip and the story grow worse than it was. He proposed to Elizabeth while they were walking towards Netherfield. She asks him one question, which he answered, and then she agrees to become his wife. Comical reaction when he announces his betrothal to his Netherfield friends. Everyone knows who acted differently! Bingley finds a bit of a backbone and ships Caroline off to London after what she and Wickham tried to do at the card party the night before. First day she was accepted into homes of gossiping women. The next she was shown the door. Darcy had written Lady Matlock to to deny her to use his name to gain admission to homes of the Ton. Decides to get back at Darcy and Elizabeth by writing to Lady Catherine de Bourgh. After Darcy faces his aunt and uncle, they hatch another plan to thwart the marriage. The new plan is even more ridiculous than first plan, and not only did Colonel Fitzwilliam hear the plan and rushed back to Netherfield, but Lady Matlock heard it also. Confronts both her husband and sister in law that they are despicable, but tells them both that her father would no longer give Matlock money to save his estate, but Catherine would not be getting any of the money. Desperate at this point, they still hatch a plan that will get rid of Elizabeth. Failed again because they used Caroline and Collins to carry out the plan. Being like Frick and Frack everybody knows they're both idiots, and are compromised.
Being the stupid dunce he is, Collins gives all of Caroline's dowry to Lady Catherine to handle. Later After an accident takes his life, Caroline has nothing: no money, no home. Anne lived at Pemberley with Mary Bennet as her companion, and died never going back to Rosings. Darcy and Elizabeth are happily married with four children, and their only daughter, Annie, takes after Elizabeth having her father wrapped around his finger, while her twin, Alex, was a copy of his father. Georgiana marries, Colonel Fitzwilliam marries, and as the family and the cousins arrive, the halls of Pemberley are happily filled with laughter, chaos, and confusion.
What an enjoyable story about unintentional compromise of Elizabeth Bennet by Fitzwilliam Darcy. Sobbing over a letter he received from Georgiana, even though she dislike him going into that part of the garden, giving him comfort and trying to find a way to help him, she walked out realizing she judge him wrong. Preparing to leave the garden one of Bingley's newly hired footman catches them before Elizabeth can leave. Both realized, he without his coat, hat, and gloves and she without her bonnet, that the footman problem would gossip and the story grow worse than it was. He proposed to Elizabeth while they were walking towards Netherfield. She asks him one question, which he answered, and then she agrees to become his wife. Comical reaction when he announces his betrothal to his Netherfield friends. Everyone knows who acted differently! Bingley finds a bit of a backbone and ships Caroline off to London after what she and Wickham tried to do at the card party the night before. First day she was accepted into homes of gossiping women. The next she was shown the door. Darcy had written Lady Matlock to to deny her to use his name to gain admission to homes of the Ton. Decides to get back at Darcy and Elizabeth by writing to Lady Catherine de Bourgh. After Darcy faces his aunt and uncle, they hatch another plan to thwart the marriage. The new plan is even more ridiculous than first plan, and not only did Colonel Fitzwilliam hear the plan and rushed back to Netherfield, but Lady Matlock heard it also. Confronts both her husband and sister in law that they are despicable, but tells them both that her father would no longer give Matlock money to save his estate, but Catherine would not be getting any of the money. Desperate at this point, they still hatch a plan that will get rid of Elizabeth. Failed again because they used Caroline and Collins to carry out the plan. Being like Frick and Frack everybody knows they're both idiots, and are compromised.
Being the stupid dunce he is, Collins gives all of Caroline's dowry to Lady Catherine to handle. Later After an accident takes his life, Caroline has nothing: no money, no home. Anne lived at Pemberley with Mary Bennet as her companion, and died never going back to Rosings. Darcy and Elizabeth are happily married with four children, and their only daughter, Annie, takes after Elizabeth having her father wrapped around his finger, while her twin, Alex, was a copy of his father. Georgiana marries, Colonel Fitzwilliam marries, and as the family and the cousins arrive, the halls of Pemberley are happily filled with laughter, chaos, and confusion.
August 24, 2015
This is a wonderful, witty variation that goes in some new and different directions. It starts with Darcy and Elizabeth needing become engaged because they are compromised and it's wonderful to see their love for each other grow. But there are various obstacles in their path, and they aren't the only ones compromised. :) The storyline with Bingley and Jane was particularly suspenseful and I couldn't wait to see how it would turn out. There were also some very fitting and humorous scenes, one involving Caroline Bingley getting her comeuppance. A joy to read!
July 5, 2017
It's a lovely D&E relationship story, that starts with Elizabeth compassion which ends up with a compromise. ODC resolve their problems pretty quickly, most of their usual misunderstandings are absent. Caroline and Wickham are vile and ruthless, but they got what they deserve. The Earl and Lady Catherine are self-centered schemers with no thought for other people. There are multiple compromises, some are quite funny. And more than one HEA, with some of my favorite pairings.
October 5, 2023
delightful story of several "compromises". Each funnier than the others.
October 27, 2017
3.5⭐️
April 4, 2020
This book was really fun and had a lot of unexpected plot twists that kept me guessing about what would happen next. I enjoyed reading this story and thought it was really well written and I liked how all the characters interacted with each other. The epilogue at the end was also really cute and I liked that it was broken up into two parts to show both one year later as well as five years later.
July 16, 2016
Being Compromised Is All The Rage in Meryton!
After coming across a distraught Mr. Darcy in agonizing distress while walking in the glen near Netherfield Park, Elizabeth Bennet decides to approach the taciturn man and discover if she could be of any assistance. Even though she would rather leave him be. While offering Mr. Darcy compassion and comfort, Elizabeth and Darcy are discovered by a Netherfield servant. Alone. In the woods. Standing close together. Breaking all kinds of propriety…
Both Darcy and Elizabeth know what this means. The only way to save their own reputations would be to marry. Mr. Darcy, being all honorable and dutiful, makes quick work or proposing to Elizabeth, and Elizabeth accepts knowing it is her only recourse. But will their union be a happy one? Will they learn to love one another? Will they be strong enough to fight all who are opposed to their marriage?
In a hilarious comedy of errors, author J. Dawn King spins a delightful tale where couples are continuously being caught in compromising situations! Most of them are innocently happened upon, like Darcy and Elizabeth, but some are not quite what you’d expect. I found those to be quite entertaining! As expected, the news of Darcy’s engagement to Elizabeth ruins some carefully laid plans and makes several characters severely disappointed. Wait to you see what lengths Caroline Bingley, George Wickham, Lady Catherine, Lord Matlock, and Mr. Collins go to break them up!
I love compromise stories! And I really enjoyed the playful approach Ms. King chose with this theme. She doesn’t take the angsty/many misunderstandings route, instead she creates a mad-cap romp very much in the style of a Shakespearean comedy. There are schemes, sinister plots, and surprises! Some may find these series of events to be slightly implausible or silly – sometimes I found my own eyebrow quirking up in disbelief – but I think that was the Ms. King’s intent. I think she wanted to tell a humorous and diverting lark, one that would make her readers chuckle with delight.
Besides seeing the sweet and tender scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth (I love a protective and devoted Darcy!), one of my favorite aspects of the story was seeing some new developments for Mary and Charlotte. I enjoyed seeing Mary share a closer relationship with Elizabeth, and I really thought it was terrific how she and Charlotte came to save the day! And Charlotte’s storyline, while worrisome at first, took such a satisfactorily turn. Moreover, I really enjoyed the comeuppance some characters received, I won’t say who or how, but just desserts were indeed properly served! Well done, Ms. King!
One or two times, I did feel that some characters fell in love rather quickly. I’m usually not a fan of the whole love-at-first-sight/insta-love scenario, but I can see how it fit this author’s timeline to have characters fall in love swiftly. In addition, there were a few occasions where I thought some characters had exceptionally heightened perceptive abilities. But these didn’t much disturb my enjoyment of the story.
Compromised! is a light-hearted, romantic, and amusing Pride and Prejudice variation. I recommend this story to to readers who enjoy sweet romances and like Elizabeth Bennet “dearly love a laugh.”
After coming across a distraught Mr. Darcy in agonizing distress while walking in the glen near Netherfield Park, Elizabeth Bennet decides to approach the taciturn man and discover if she could be of any assistance. Even though she would rather leave him be. While offering Mr. Darcy compassion and comfort, Elizabeth and Darcy are discovered by a Netherfield servant. Alone. In the woods. Standing close together. Breaking all kinds of propriety…
Both Darcy and Elizabeth know what this means. The only way to save their own reputations would be to marry. Mr. Darcy, being all honorable and dutiful, makes quick work or proposing to Elizabeth, and Elizabeth accepts knowing it is her only recourse. But will their union be a happy one? Will they learn to love one another? Will they be strong enough to fight all who are opposed to their marriage?
In a hilarious comedy of errors, author J. Dawn King spins a delightful tale where couples are continuously being caught in compromising situations! Most of them are innocently happened upon, like Darcy and Elizabeth, but some are not quite what you’d expect. I found those to be quite entertaining! As expected, the news of Darcy’s engagement to Elizabeth ruins some carefully laid plans and makes several characters severely disappointed. Wait to you see what lengths Caroline Bingley, George Wickham, Lady Catherine, Lord Matlock, and Mr. Collins go to break them up!
I love compromise stories! And I really enjoyed the playful approach Ms. King chose with this theme. She doesn’t take the angsty/many misunderstandings route, instead she creates a mad-cap romp very much in the style of a Shakespearean comedy. There are schemes, sinister plots, and surprises! Some may find these series of events to be slightly implausible or silly – sometimes I found my own eyebrow quirking up in disbelief – but I think that was the Ms. King’s intent. I think she wanted to tell a humorous and diverting lark, one that would make her readers chuckle with delight.
Besides seeing the sweet and tender scenes between Darcy and Elizabeth (I love a protective and devoted Darcy!), one of my favorite aspects of the story was seeing some new developments for Mary and Charlotte. I enjoyed seeing Mary share a closer relationship with Elizabeth, and I really thought it was terrific how she and Charlotte came to save the day! And Charlotte’s storyline, while worrisome at first, took such a satisfactorily turn. Moreover, I really enjoyed the comeuppance some characters received, I won’t say who or how, but just desserts were indeed properly served! Well done, Ms. King!
One or two times, I did feel that some characters fell in love rather quickly. I’m usually not a fan of the whole love-at-first-sight/insta-love scenario, but I can see how it fit this author’s timeline to have characters fall in love swiftly. In addition, there were a few occasions where I thought some characters had exceptionally heightened perceptive abilities. But these didn’t much disturb my enjoyment of the story.
Compromised! is a light-hearted, romantic, and amusing Pride and Prejudice variation. I recommend this story to to readers who enjoy sweet romances and like Elizabeth Bennet “dearly love a laugh.”
June 19, 2016
Hold your breath surprises, evil relations, jealous, conniving, husband hunter
I almost didn’t buy this book. I read some of the reviews and didn’t think I could bear seeing a broken and vulnerable Darcy. Oh was I ever mistaken. I forgot that a phoenix rises from the ashes and boy did Darcy rise.
J. Dawn King hooked me from the get go and I was on a speed ride for the rest of the book. There were moments of laughing out loud, holding my breath as a scene played out, squeals of glee, giggles, guffaws, outbursts of “OH NO”, and hand over my mouth laughter, and those “Oh no they didn’t” moments. I loved this book. What a scream. My anxiety soon gave way to simply relaxing and enjoying the ride. I was never able to figure where the story was headed and was completely caught off guard by the surprises. I love when an author does that.
Ms. King masterfully constructed a story that on the surface looked one way but underneath was a whole other story. The pacing was even, no jolts. The language was easy to read, and there were minimal errors. The machinations of those evil characters we love to hate were superb. Even with the revelation that Lady Anne’s side of the family was not so nice. However, the masterful strategies and maneuvers of those characters that we love to love were better. No one can out maneuver Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam when they put their heads together.
Oh I loved how evil was constantly thwarted at every turn. King was a genius with her movement of scenes and characters. Nothing was what it seemed. Everyone had a role to play in the overall scheme of things. I was constantly being led to believe one thing and then something else happened. The twists and turns were a constant surprise. We see a bit more of Mary Bennet and a very different Anne de Bourgh in this version. They become great friends and were quiet a team.
This book was a delight. There are moments when you think all is lost, but [like Elizabeth] keep your faith in Darcy and all will be well. The Epilogue was delightful, so cute and delicious.
I almost didn’t buy this book. I read some of the reviews and didn’t think I could bear seeing a broken and vulnerable Darcy. Oh was I ever mistaken. I forgot that a phoenix rises from the ashes and boy did Darcy rise.
J. Dawn King hooked me from the get go and I was on a speed ride for the rest of the book. There were moments of laughing out loud, holding my breath as a scene played out, squeals of glee, giggles, guffaws, outbursts of “OH NO”, and hand over my mouth laughter, and those “Oh no they didn’t” moments. I loved this book. What a scream. My anxiety soon gave way to simply relaxing and enjoying the ride. I was never able to figure where the story was headed and was completely caught off guard by the surprises. I love when an author does that.
Ms. King masterfully constructed a story that on the surface looked one way but underneath was a whole other story. The pacing was even, no jolts. The language was easy to read, and there were minimal errors. The machinations of those evil characters we love to hate were superb. Even with the revelation that Lady Anne’s side of the family was not so nice. However, the masterful strategies and maneuvers of those characters that we love to love were better. No one can out maneuver Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam when they put their heads together.
Oh I loved how evil was constantly thwarted at every turn. King was a genius with her movement of scenes and characters. Nothing was what it seemed. Everyone had a role to play in the overall scheme of things. I was constantly being led to believe one thing and then something else happened. The twists and turns were a constant surprise. We see a bit more of Mary Bennet and a very different Anne de Bourgh in this version. They become great friends and were quiet a team.
This book was a delight. There are moments when you think all is lost, but [like Elizabeth] keep your faith in Darcy and all will be well. The Epilogue was delightful, so cute and delicious.
January 2, 2025
It was a really good book, and I enjoyed it immensely. Narration by Stevie Zimmerman was as usual brilliant.
The story starts with Jane and Elizabeth being at Netherfield and Elizabeth coming upon Darcy on one of her walks when he was most distraught because of a letter from Georgiana.
To put it short, they are compromised. From there the real drama begins with various characters. We got several villains trying to ruin everything for Darcy and Elizabeth. Though the villains aren't really wise..
I gotta say something about Elizabeth, there were instances where I wanted to rip my hair out because of her naiveté or rather stupidity.
And Jane? She finally stood up for herself but quickly forgot her resolve again. I don't know but I simply did not 'ship' Bingley and Jane in this story. I did not feel the chemistry, whereas I did feel a chemistry between her and another acquaintance. (I won't name him.)
All in all it's a great read and if you decide on reading, be aware it might be a little angsty but with clean content.
The story starts with Jane and Elizabeth being at Netherfield and Elizabeth coming upon Darcy on one of her walks when he was most distraught because of a letter from Georgiana.
To put it short, they are compromised. From there the real drama begins with various characters. We got several villains trying to ruin everything for Darcy and Elizabeth. Though the villains aren't really wise..
I gotta say something about Elizabeth, there were instances where I wanted to rip my hair out because of her naiveté or rather stupidity.
And Jane? She finally stood up for herself but quickly forgot her resolve again. I don't know but I simply did not 'ship' Bingley and Jane in this story. I did not feel the chemistry, whereas I did feel a chemistry between her and another acquaintance. (I won't name him.)
All in all it's a great read and if you decide on reading, be aware it might be a little angsty but with clean content.
August 31, 2015
Head hoping gets annoying fast.
Might be nice idea gets tiring when you realize that each person will deliver their own dialogue from their own POV. POV changes are too frequent. Vernacular is inappropriate for era. The personality changes are grafted on in a clumsy manner. Mrs. Bennett knows she is silly and foolish, thinks Mrs. Bennett but she sensibly will do nothing to interfere with her daughter's courtship. Really? So self-aware? So intelligent? And then so clever? No.
At 86% read it occurred to me that the author might be trying for a comedy of errors book but it wasn't funny.
Romance, such as it was, happened too fast to be consistent with characters. Sorry. Therefore, price for this book too high.
Might be nice idea gets tiring when you realize that each person will deliver their own dialogue from their own POV. POV changes are too frequent. Vernacular is inappropriate for era. The personality changes are grafted on in a clumsy manner. Mrs. Bennett knows she is silly and foolish, thinks Mrs. Bennett but she sensibly will do nothing to interfere with her daughter's courtship. Really? So self-aware? So intelligent? And then so clever? No.
At 86% read it occurred to me that the author might be trying for a comedy of errors book but it wasn't funny.
Romance, such as it was, happened too fast to be consistent with characters. Sorry. Therefore, price for this book too high.
September 6, 2015
Quick read, but, as a result, our favorites characters were not given any depth. I felt their appreciation of each other a bit shallow. There was almost no witty reparte. I was also confused by the "love triangle." It just seemed that everyone fell in and out of love/ desire/ attraction too easily. The reader is left to question why some of the couples ended up together. The only thing noteworthy was the humor created when catching someone in a compromising position that people pointed and yelled "Compromise!" As if theye were in a reality TV show saying, "You just got punked!" So Bizarre.
March 26, 2020
This review is being written after reading the book for a second time. I liked it better this time around. The story features a series of compromises; some accidental, some planned, some leading to love, and some leading to I am not sure what to call it (who wants to be married to Mr Collins?).
The story is fun but didn't give me the same emotional feels as I normally get from this author, who is one of my favorites.
The story is fun but didn't give me the same emotional feels as I normally get from this author, who is one of my favorites.
July 22, 2018
Compromised - A Pride and Prejudice Variation
Well I just re-read Joy's story over again. It's one you like t go back to, now and then, because the love between Darcy and Lizzie is so sweet and pure in this version! Great Read!
Well I just re-read Joy's story over again. It's one you like t go back to, now and then, because the love between Darcy and Lizzie is so sweet and pure in this version! Great Read!
September 27, 2023
A good solid 4* read
An enjoyable and amusing story with warm and recognisable characters. Well written and edited, this story is well worth reading.
An enjoyable and amusing story with warm and recognisable characters. Well written and edited, this story is well worth reading.
January 26, 2023
I have read this book multiple times and have enjoyed it. The author recently put this audiobook on YouTube for free. I enjoyed listening to it.
June 28, 2022
It was a rather sweet reimaging, HOWEVER there was too much going on as it detracted from my enjoyment of seeing Darcy and Lizzy grow closer.
October 20, 2015
One word "Compromised!!"
J Dawn King does it again!!!! This book was excellently written, brilliantly captivating story of compromises and love!!! Miss King is a master at engaging you thoroughly to the point that you can't put the story down!!! I literally started reading this book this morning!!!
This book shows various forms of what a compromise entailed to be in JA's era. The first of course is ODC!! This was the most innocent of the compromises. Elizabeth had a choice, to follow proprietary or human kindness, now we all know which Miss E is more likely to follow!!! Elizabeth could not ignore the anguished cries of another human and found Mr Darcy upset and in his own thoughts. I will not spoil it, but if you follow me on Goodreads I did favor some choice speeches!!
We see how the lives and understandings of ODC change over the period of their engagement, 2 mos (though technically not that long...). The trials and tribulations they face do send the angst meter up throughout the book. Our most hated are back: Mr Wickham (slimeball), Caroline (horrid woman!!), Lady Catherine (old windbag), Mr Collins (disgustingly sniveling toad), and Lord Matlock (the old goat). They are all back to reek havoc and attempt to destroy the love ODC has for each other!!! But they each get what they deserve!!! Again Miss King is a master giving the hated ones their due course instead of letting them off!!
I have to say I loved Mr Bennett in this book, yes he is still the indolent father as in canon, though becomes the enraged father when a compromise happens to Elizabeth (go figure). When he and Mr Darcy come to terms, with the help of Elizabeth, Mr Bennet becomes a man to adore. I loved Col Fitzwilliam as well, he is such a truly loyal companion/relation to Mr Darcy, it was inspiring to read the scenes these two were in and how the Col stood up to his father!!! I wish Mary had a bigger roll and caught the attention of Col Fitzwilliam. I felt she had possibilities that weren't thoroughly explored.
I will recommend this to any and all JAFFers, I'd rate this a PG13 for implied adult themes, though no mature topics were included!!! Thank you J Dawn King for this excellent book!!
J Dawn King does it again!!!! This book was excellently written, brilliantly captivating story of compromises and love!!! Miss King is a master at engaging you thoroughly to the point that you can't put the story down!!! I literally started reading this book this morning!!!
This book shows various forms of what a compromise entailed to be in JA's era. The first of course is ODC!! This was the most innocent of the compromises. Elizabeth had a choice, to follow proprietary or human kindness, now we all know which Miss E is more likely to follow!!! Elizabeth could not ignore the anguished cries of another human and found Mr Darcy upset and in his own thoughts. I will not spoil it, but if you follow me on Goodreads I did favor some choice speeches!!
We see how the lives and understandings of ODC change over the period of their engagement, 2 mos (though technically not that long...). The trials and tribulations they face do send the angst meter up throughout the book. Our most hated are back: Mr Wickham (slimeball), Caroline (horrid woman!!), Lady Catherine (old windbag), Mr Collins (disgustingly sniveling toad), and Lord Matlock (the old goat). They are all back to reek havoc and attempt to destroy the love ODC has for each other!!! But they each get what they deserve!!! Again Miss King is a master giving the hated ones their due course instead of letting them off!!
I have to say I loved Mr Bennett in this book, yes he is still the indolent father as in canon, though becomes the enraged father when a compromise happens to Elizabeth (go figure). When he and Mr Darcy come to terms, with the help of Elizabeth, Mr Bennet becomes a man to adore. I loved Col Fitzwilliam as well, he is such a truly loyal companion/relation to Mr Darcy, it was inspiring to read the scenes these two were in and how the Col stood up to his father!!! I wish Mary had a bigger roll and caught the attention of Col Fitzwilliam. I felt she had possibilities that weren't thoroughly explored.
I will recommend this to any and all JAFFers, I'd rate this a PG13 for implied adult themes, though no mature topics were included!!! Thank you J Dawn King for this excellent book!!
did-not-finish
October 3, 2017I think it was too much unbelievable.
Imagine, Darcy receives a letter from his sister that she wants to go to Scotland, for a while (just to live in peace). He is so shocked and sad that when Elizabeth appears before him he hugs her. What?! As much as it sounds like a promise of a nice romance, it isn't Darcy!
I tried to read it. But with every next page I was more convinced I don't want to waste my time with this story.
It is for free now on Amazon, so you can try it for yourself. Perhaps you will like it.
Imagine, Darcy receives a letter from his sister that she wants to go to Scotland, for a while (just to live in peace). He is so shocked and sad that when Elizabeth appears before him he hugs her. What?! As much as it sounds like a promise of a nice romance, it isn't Darcy!
I tried to read it. But with every next page I was more convinced I don't want to waste my time with this story.
It is for free now on Amazon, so you can try it for yourself. Perhaps you will like it.
August 23, 2018
Lovely variation of P&P! Very well written. I loved what the author did with the plot. Highly entertaining. Mr. Darcy is much nicer than in the Austin version. Stevie Zimmerman did a fantastic job with the narration. Happy reading/listening!
April 27, 2022
Seriously, I don't know if this was a serious story or a comedy, but one thing anyone who read the book will know that it was appropriately titled. There were compromises left and right. Successful compromise, failed compromise, unintended compromise, misfired compromise, deliberate compromise, compromise by wrong person, compromise with wrong person, compromise with good intention, compromise with bad intention, any kind you could ever think of. If this was actually written as a farce, I think it would have been more enjoyable.
July 6, 2022
I do not recommend
The book is very “lite.” It’s like a novel- only diet. Shallow, lacks substance. Bizarre set-ups to confrontations that are pre-empted. Villains vanquished before dastardly deeds can be accomplished. At times it descended to, (aspired to?) farce. I wasn’t charmed. I skipped the epilogue because by then the bitter after taste of saccharine was overwhelming me.
Rated NPN - no pearls needed. (Chaste AF.)
The book is very “lite.” It’s like a novel- only diet. Shallow, lacks substance. Bizarre set-ups to confrontations that are pre-empted. Villains vanquished before dastardly deeds can be accomplished. At times it descended to, (aspired to?) farce. I wasn’t charmed. I skipped the epilogue because by then the bitter after taste of saccharine was overwhelming me.
Rated NPN - no pearls needed. (Chaste AF.)
Read
March 24, 2023DNF. At the beginning of the story Elizabeth finds Darcy crying in the forest. He takes her in his arms and when he releases her, she has a “feeling of loss”. That’s too much for me already.
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