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Implacable Resentment
Reader “To me, this is his best book thus far. The suspense was almost unbearable at times. My heart was literally in my throat.” “This is probably the best, can't put it down, nail biting rendition of one of the best pieces of literature of this era of English literature.” “This story is so moving and completely different from other P&P variations. The characters are very well written and executed. The emotions put into every chapter make you feel for Elizabeth's character so much. I would recommend this book to anyone that would enjoy a P&P variation that not only stems from just one what if, but adds countless others through the story.” ***** The cruelty of an all-consuming grudge is enough to drive a nine-year-old Elizabeth Bennet from her family home to spend the rest of her childhood with the Gardiners. When she is nineteen, her family calls her home, and she heeds the summons with her head held high, only to discover that the prejudice against her has not abated with time . . . . ***** “I will not. If you have brought me here for such silliness, then I wonder why I was summoned home at all. The Gardiners will be passing through shortly on their way to Ireland. Perhaps it is best that I accompany them, as I am obviously not welcome here.” “There is another thing you may wish to consider, Mrs. Bennet. I am more than a decade your senior. The time of your removal to the hedgerows may be upon you sooner than you would have thought possible. Think on that when you consider how you will receive my heir on the morrow.” “. . . my mother and father have taught you all to hate me, yet they have never given any reason for it. I have been made the pariah, the faceless, hated sister, despite no reason ever being given for my being shunned. There is no direction for this hatred. It is all so senseless. I wish I had never returned.” Scroll up to enter a new world based on Jane Austen’s classic!
420 pages, Paperback
First published February 27, 2015
101 people are currently reading
272 people want to read
About the author
Jann Rowland
87 books192 followersJann Rowland is a Canadian, born and bred. Other than a two-year span in which he lived in Japan, he has been a resident of the Great White North his entire life, though he professes to still hate the winters.
Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OneGoodSonnetPub...
Twitter: @OneGoodSonnet
Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bol2p9
Though Jann did not start writing until his mid-twenties, writing has grown from a hobby to an all-consuming passion. His interests as a child were almost exclusively centered on the exotic fantasy worlds of Tolkien and Eddings, among a host of others. As an adult, his interests have grown to include historical fiction and romance, with a particular focus on the works of Jane Austen.
When Jann is not writing, he enjoys rooting for his favorite sports teams. He is also a master musician (in his own mind) who enjoys playing piano and singing as well as moonlighting as the choir director in his church’s congregation.
Jann lives in Alberta with his wife of more than twenty years, two grown sons, and one young daughter. He is convinced that whatever hair he has left will be entirely gone by the time his little girl hits her teenage years. Sadly, though he has told his daughter repeatedly that she is not allowed to grow up, she continues to ignore him.
Website: http://onegoodsonnet.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OneGoodSonnetPub...
Twitter: @OneGoodSonnet
Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bol2p9
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 28, 2017
Warning: this is a longer book and has such a power to enthrall, to captivate, that one should begin reading this early in the day with the knowledge that if one does not...it may be the wee hours of the morning before one can put it down and go to bed. It was 2:22 am this morning when I went off to bed and even then I was only at 87% of the book. It is usually at 85% that we come to a climax in most books and so it was with this excellent romance/thriller.
As the story description tells us Elizabeth is the scapegoat in her family. The physical neglect coupled with the harshest of emotional abuse have us presented with a child who will soon die of those causes if not of her own will to leave a world in which there is no love...not even that of her sister, Jane.
Elizabeth has been so neglected that she is illiterate. Can you imagine our dear girl growing up with not a thing to stimulate her mind? She spends a lot of time away from the house, in distant meadows or up in trees. Finally, Mr. Gardiner, who has only recently married brings his new bride to visit and seeing this wisp of a girl demands and is given permission to take her back to his home...all with the identical wishes by his bride.
That is just the mere beginning of the story. When, ten years later, Mr. Bennet demands that Elizabeth be sent home, she states that she wants to do this, despite the Gardiners' desire to keep her there. (That couple has nurtured and educated her to be an accomplished lady.) Elizabeth feels that she has been a drain on those dear relatives and wants to find a place in her own family. Beware: This M/M Bennet are the most vile, the most hateful, the most deceitful couple even portrayed in JAFF in my reading experiences. Mr. Collins and Lady Catherine are not far behind. It broke my heart to read of what Elizabeth goes through. (More than one incident of tears on my part occurred.)
But Mr. Darcy...they meet by accident at an inn at which Mr. Gardiner and Elizabeth have stopped when he is taking her back to the Bennets those ten years later. Then Bingley leases Netherfield and they meet again. There is no insult at the assembly in Meryton. Rather there are quiet conversations and observations and visits by the men of Netherfield to Longbourn. But about two weeks into Elizabeth's return to the Bennets we suddenly find out just why Mr. Bennet called her home. Horrors!
I dare you to put the book down now. I was skimming through sentences and over paragraphs as I HAD to find out how this would be resolved. I have now read all of Mr. Rowland's books and I must say this one is the best. It is full of angst but also one of the dearest presentations of Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet I have read...and I have read hundreds of variations. Darcy is so loving, so steady, so true and honorable...and so resourceful. He acts wisely and with all due haste when needed.
If you don't like angst you may not want to read this. It has no MA scenes but there are several incidents of physical violence and bitter, harsh words. Excellent book, Mr. Rowland.
As the story description tells us Elizabeth is the scapegoat in her family. The physical neglect coupled with the harshest of emotional abuse have us presented with a child who will soon die of those causes if not of her own will to leave a world in which there is no love...not even that of her sister, Jane.
Elizabeth has been so neglected that she is illiterate. Can you imagine our dear girl growing up with not a thing to stimulate her mind? She spends a lot of time away from the house, in distant meadows or up in trees. Finally, Mr. Gardiner, who has only recently married brings his new bride to visit and seeing this wisp of a girl demands and is given permission to take her back to his home...all with the identical wishes by his bride.
That is just the mere beginning of the story. When, ten years later, Mr. Bennet demands that Elizabeth be sent home, she states that she wants to do this, despite the Gardiners' desire to keep her there. (That couple has nurtured and educated her to be an accomplished lady.) Elizabeth feels that she has been a drain on those dear relatives and wants to find a place in her own family. Beware: This M/M Bennet are the most vile, the most hateful, the most deceitful couple even portrayed in JAFF in my reading experiences. Mr. Collins and Lady Catherine are not far behind. It broke my heart to read of what Elizabeth goes through. (More than one incident of tears on my part occurred.)
But Mr. Darcy...they meet by accident at an inn at which Mr. Gardiner and Elizabeth have stopped when he is taking her back to the Bennets those ten years later. Then Bingley leases Netherfield and they meet again. There is no insult at the assembly in Meryton. Rather there are quiet conversations and observations and visits by the men of Netherfield to Longbourn. But about two weeks into Elizabeth's return to the Bennets we suddenly find out just why Mr. Bennet called her home. Horrors!
I dare you to put the book down now. I was skimming through sentences and over paragraphs as I HAD to find out how this would be resolved. I have now read all of Mr. Rowland's books and I must say this one is the best. It is full of angst but also one of the dearest presentations of Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet I have read...and I have read hundreds of variations. Darcy is so loving, so steady, so true and honorable...and so resourceful. He acts wisely and with all due haste when needed.
If you don't like angst you may not want to read this. It has no MA scenes but there are several incidents of physical violence and bitter, harsh words. Excellent book, Mr. Rowland.
September 17, 2019
Destroyed hopes of a family, blasted dreams of a child: 4.5-stars
Revised Review 7-29-16 due to accusations of giving away too much in my review. I am so sorry. It was not my intent to reveal too much. I got carried away. My apologies to the author and to those who read reviews.
Jann Rowland will count it a success when readers are too angry to write their reviews. Such emotions evoked by the written word are a powerful force to deal with. I am seething, furious, boiling mad, and emotionally wrung out in my disgust with Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. Yeah, the words on the page provoked a mighty response within the breast of this reader.
For those who champion children, it will be hard reading the start of this story as we encounter a nine year-old Elizabeth. Only this is not our dear girl from canon who was lively, witty, bright-eyed, intelligent, cherished and beloved of her father. This Elizabeth was gaunt-eyed, ignorant, illiterate, emaciated, wearing shabby cast-off clothing, ignored [if she was lucky], abused beyond the pale, taunted by the youngest [favorite] Lydia, and all encouraged and allowed by the mother. Every waking moment was excruciating pain for our dear girl as she endured the neglect and abuse of her family. A family that encompassed an indolent father who escaped his misery into his book-room, and a high-strung mother who shrilled and railed against the unfairness of life. It would drive a sane person to bedlam.
Into the darkness beamed the light of Uncle Gardiner and his new bride Sarah. They were horrified by what they found in the house of Bennet and asked if they could take Elizabeth back to London with them and raise her as their own. Of course Mrs. B demanded that her brother take a worthier daughter to London instead of…her. When he refused, the Bennet’s were only too glad to be rid of the albatross, the child Elizabeth, that was around their necks. How horrible.
There is a world of psychological studies, such as Maslow, regarding human motivation and achieving one’s full potential. We find this is all too true in the life of our nine-year old Elizabeth. Since nothing thrives in a vacuum, we are privy to the only people who showed our dear girl kindness…Mrs. Hill and Jane. Once Elizabeth was removed to London, her life changed and as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs outlined, she was allowed to reach her full potential. Even in canon Elizabeth was stymied, in what she could achieve as her parents were to indolent to let her reach her full potential. Not so with the Gardiners. They became the loving stable environment that Elizabeth needed in order to thrive. And thrive she did. Whatever she needed to succeed, masters of every form, dance, music, art, etc., she had at her fingertips. The result was a more refined, cultured, graceful, articulate, educated, socially savvy, witty, and beautiful Elizabeth than portrayed in canon.
Just when you think it is safe to go back into the water… Uncle Gardiner received an express / summons / command that Elizabeth return to Longbourn. So begins chapter after chapter of anguish, despair, grief, guilt, shame, betrayal, disgust, scheming, outrageous behavior, insults, abuse, horrible actions, and finally truth revealed. In spite of all the above, we still have our HEA.
There were scenes that were hard to read, hard to understand and still harder to forgive. I am so angry at the Bennet parents. We were not told initially what the devastating circumstance were that happened when Elizabeth was only two years old. We know that it was awful, changed the circumstances for the family and that they blamed Elizabeth for it, leaving her racked with guilt over something she does not even remember. Early on Mr. Gardiner hinted that possible an adult also had some responsibility or culpability in the matter. When we finally have the reveal…it was almost anticlimactic because we had wondered and anguished over it throughout the whole book. It felt like a dropped thread in the tapestry of our story.
Wickham made a disgusting appearance and was dealt with immediately. Colonel Forster was not best pleased with the behavior of one of his officers.
Bingley was awesome and fell in love with Jane, as he should. Caroline was disgusting and continued to cut off her nose to spite her face. Mr. and Mrs. Hurst were themselves.
Mary and Catherine [Kitty] were a surprise and I liked how they turned out. Everyone had an opportunity to change and whether they choose to take it, was left up to them. I loved these girls. I have no words regarding Lydia, as she deserves none.
Lady Catherine…OMG, she was even beyond her canon self. She reigned terror throughout every page on which she appeared. I was horrified at her actions…horrified. The commands she gave to Collins and Elizabeth were beyond respectful, beyond the pale. Our dear Colonel made an appearance at Kent and helped Darcy quell the onslaught of Lady C’s rants and tirade. His father, the Earl, had to be called in, as the head of the family, to offset Lady C’s authority.
Mr. Collins…toad of a man that he was, even after all he had been through, still had the audacity to approach Mr. Gardiner and make his unreasonable demands. Such a scheming disgusting man. His outcome was appropriate.
Darcy, wow… Yeah, throughout this work, he was the knight in shining armor, the master of all he surveyed, lover, friend, confidant, rock in the shifting sands, safe harbor from the stormy tempest, and wielder of the sword of justice and truth. There are not enough words to describe him.
This book was no walk in the park. The reader has to be willing to walk through every emotion in order to reach the HEA. We are given an epilogue where we see the results of all the hard work of our dear couple and their friends. It was good. Everyone received the end they deserved.
Note: actually a question: in other JAFF stories, the Archbishop was a relative of Darcy’s. We have him looking at Darcy and smiling, but it was never made clear whether he was a relation. I just wondered. It would have been cool if he had been and was then able to conduct the ceremony.
There were editing problems: a sentence repeated, missing words, articles…minor things that were missed.
Revised Review 7-29-16 due to accusations of giving away too much in my review. I am so sorry. It was not my intent to reveal too much. I got carried away. My apologies to the author and to those who read reviews.
Jann Rowland will count it a success when readers are too angry to write their reviews. Such emotions evoked by the written word are a powerful force to deal with. I am seething, furious, boiling mad, and emotionally wrung out in my disgust with Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. Yeah, the words on the page provoked a mighty response within the breast of this reader.
For those who champion children, it will be hard reading the start of this story as we encounter a nine year-old Elizabeth. Only this is not our dear girl from canon who was lively, witty, bright-eyed, intelligent, cherished and beloved of her father. This Elizabeth was gaunt-eyed, ignorant, illiterate, emaciated, wearing shabby cast-off clothing, ignored [if she was lucky], abused beyond the pale, taunted by the youngest [favorite] Lydia, and all encouraged and allowed by the mother. Every waking moment was excruciating pain for our dear girl as she endured the neglect and abuse of her family. A family that encompassed an indolent father who escaped his misery into his book-room, and a high-strung mother who shrilled and railed against the unfairness of life. It would drive a sane person to bedlam.
Into the darkness beamed the light of Uncle Gardiner and his new bride Sarah. They were horrified by what they found in the house of Bennet and asked if they could take Elizabeth back to London with them and raise her as their own. Of course Mrs. B demanded that her brother take a worthier daughter to London instead of…her. When he refused, the Bennet’s were only too glad to be rid of the albatross, the child Elizabeth, that was around their necks. How horrible.
There is a world of psychological studies, such as Maslow, regarding human motivation and achieving one’s full potential. We find this is all too true in the life of our nine-year old Elizabeth. Since nothing thrives in a vacuum, we are privy to the only people who showed our dear girl kindness…Mrs. Hill and Jane. Once Elizabeth was removed to London, her life changed and as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs outlined, she was allowed to reach her full potential. Even in canon Elizabeth was stymied, in what she could achieve as her parents were to indolent to let her reach her full potential. Not so with the Gardiners. They became the loving stable environment that Elizabeth needed in order to thrive. And thrive she did. Whatever she needed to succeed, masters of every form, dance, music, art, etc., she had at her fingertips. The result was a more refined, cultured, graceful, articulate, educated, socially savvy, witty, and beautiful Elizabeth than portrayed in canon.
Just when you think it is safe to go back into the water… Uncle Gardiner received an express / summons / command that Elizabeth return to Longbourn. So begins chapter after chapter of anguish, despair, grief, guilt, shame, betrayal, disgust, scheming, outrageous behavior, insults, abuse, horrible actions, and finally truth revealed. In spite of all the above, we still have our HEA.
There were scenes that were hard to read, hard to understand and still harder to forgive. I am so angry at the Bennet parents. We were not told initially what the devastating circumstance were that happened when Elizabeth was only two years old. We know that it was awful, changed the circumstances for the family and that they blamed Elizabeth for it, leaving her racked with guilt over something she does not even remember. Early on Mr. Gardiner hinted that possible an adult also had some responsibility or culpability in the matter. When we finally have the reveal…it was almost anticlimactic because we had wondered and anguished over it throughout the whole book. It felt like a dropped thread in the tapestry of our story.
Wickham made a disgusting appearance and was dealt with immediately. Colonel Forster was not best pleased with the behavior of one of his officers.
Bingley was awesome and fell in love with Jane, as he should. Caroline was disgusting and continued to cut off her nose to spite her face. Mr. and Mrs. Hurst were themselves.
Mary and Catherine [Kitty] were a surprise and I liked how they turned out. Everyone had an opportunity to change and whether they choose to take it, was left up to them. I loved these girls. I have no words regarding Lydia, as she deserves none.
Lady Catherine…OMG, she was even beyond her canon self. She reigned terror throughout every page on which she appeared. I was horrified at her actions…horrified. The commands she gave to Collins and Elizabeth were beyond respectful, beyond the pale. Our dear Colonel made an appearance at Kent and helped Darcy quell the onslaught of Lady C’s rants and tirade. His father, the Earl, had to be called in, as the head of the family, to offset Lady C’s authority.
Mr. Collins…toad of a man that he was, even after all he had been through, still had the audacity to approach Mr. Gardiner and make his unreasonable demands. Such a scheming disgusting man. His outcome was appropriate.
Darcy, wow… Yeah, throughout this work, he was the knight in shining armor, the master of all he surveyed, lover, friend, confidant, rock in the shifting sands, safe harbor from the stormy tempest, and wielder of the sword of justice and truth. There are not enough words to describe him.
This book was no walk in the park. The reader has to be willing to walk through every emotion in order to reach the HEA. We are given an epilogue where we see the results of all the hard work of our dear couple and their friends. It was good. Everyone received the end they deserved.
Note: actually a question: in other JAFF stories, the Archbishop was a relative of Darcy’s. We have him looking at Darcy and smiling, but it was never made clear whether he was a relation. I just wondered. It would have been cool if he had been and was then able to conduct the ceremony.
There were editing problems: a sentence repeated, missing words, articles…minor things that were missed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2015
Very un-canon P&P variation
I have read and really enjoy Mr Rowland's books. I loved the premise of this book because it is not canon!! It starts out where Elizabeth is being raised by the Gardiners since she was 9 y/o because her parents believe she is the perpetrator of all their misfortune (you must read to find out what misfortune befell the Bennets). When she is 19 y/o, Elizabeth is summoned back to Longbourn by her father. She is determined she will be fine and the Gardiners reluctantly leave her and go to Ireland for a few months for business.
Mr and Mrs Bennet are truly evil, contemptible people in this story. My hatred meter was off the Richter scale!!! In fact, I had to put the book aside when I got half way through, when the reason for Mr Bennet's summons is revealed. I literally could not pick up the book for a few months, and only when I viewed ahead (which I never do!!!!) to make sure it ends up being a HEA!!
I loved the sisterly bond that Elizabeth and Jane still had even with having had no contact in 10 yrs. I enjoyed how we got to see the maturing of Kitty and Mary, to the chagrin of Lydia, Mr and Mrs Bennet. I loved Anne de Bourgh and Col Fitzwilliam, through her friendship with Elizabeth Anne becomes a strong enough young lady to stand up for herself.
I loved Elizabeth and Darcy!! Darcy from the beginning was so devoted and caring. And Elizabeth was so smart and conniving, especially when dealing with Mr Collins!!!!
The story was well written and captivating, except for my contempt of Mr and Mrs Bennet! This truly is a good book and I would highly recommend it to all JAFFers!!
I have read and really enjoy Mr Rowland's books. I loved the premise of this book because it is not canon!! It starts out where Elizabeth is being raised by the Gardiners since she was 9 y/o because her parents believe she is the perpetrator of all their misfortune (you must read to find out what misfortune befell the Bennets). When she is 19 y/o, Elizabeth is summoned back to Longbourn by her father. She is determined she will be fine and the Gardiners reluctantly leave her and go to Ireland for a few months for business.
Mr and Mrs Bennet are truly evil, contemptible people in this story. My hatred meter was off the Richter scale!!! In fact, I had to put the book aside when I got half way through, when the reason for Mr Bennet's summons is revealed. I literally could not pick up the book for a few months, and only when I viewed ahead (which I never do!!!!) to make sure it ends up being a HEA!!
I loved the sisterly bond that Elizabeth and Jane still had even with having had no contact in 10 yrs. I enjoyed how we got to see the maturing of Kitty and Mary, to the chagrin of Lydia, Mr and Mrs Bennet. I loved Anne de Bourgh and Col Fitzwilliam, through her friendship with Elizabeth Anne becomes a strong enough young lady to stand up for herself.
I loved Elizabeth and Darcy!! Darcy from the beginning was so devoted and caring. And Elizabeth was so smart and conniving, especially when dealing with Mr Collins!!!!
The story was well written and captivating, except for my contempt of Mr and Mrs Bennet! This truly is a good book and I would highly recommend it to all JAFFers!!
April 16, 2021
Meet Lizzy Sue and Darcy Sue, what they lack in passion they make up for in affability and perfect cardboard manners.
Some leeway for deviation in character is expected, allowed and welcomed in JAFF as long as circumstances reflect the degree of the deviation.
Lizzy being more timid can be allowed for, but where is her wit? As to why the author chose to overhaul Darcy and his growth befuddles me. Darcy has magically become a perfect gentleman and we know not why. Maybe he’s born with it? Heck, maybe it's maybelline! We readers have no way of knowing.
I suspect this story would have been most compelling if we had this Lizzy who is more tender and refined (due to a season in London has become more apt at sketching characters), went toe to toe with the OG Darcy who is proud, and prone to make comments at inferior balls, slighting young ladies.
Lizzy being raised by her uncle in trade yet being more refined than most ladies of the ton and more accomplished would have been an interesting dynamic with a Darcy who is prejudiced against inferior connections and thus have his preconceived notions turned on its head.
Alas, that would be too close to a conflict for the author to endure. Instead enjoy these two vanilla Mary and Gary Sue, two hot, young, perfect people, that somehow make it work in this crazy, crazy, world. Sounds exciting, right?
The few dialogue scenes Darcy and Lizzy share are not compelling; we are told often what they think of each other without any basis. Darcy mentions Lizzy is well read before he has even spoken more than hello, he can just tell those eyes are educated as hell!
Their attraction or responses to one another are thus not believable; there is often giggling about something one or the other said but it is in no universe, timeline, or reality possibly funny.
One exchange, I kid you not, goes something like this;
Darcy: Bingley can't write legibly
Lizzy, who has barely met Bingley:
Me, reading:
Most of the romance is summarized in paragraphs. We are denied the delightful repartee which to most is what makes P&P romantic- perchance the author can't think up witty banter? Whose to say, but his bland and unoriginal dialogue leave much to be desired.
We all read Jane Austen for her famous cat fights and endure the romance and witty dialogue, right? Then this book is just for you! Get pages on pages of Lizzy having the same- beat the horse to death- verbal spats: with her family, with Caroline, and with Wickham! They feel more akin to ghetto showdowns on the Maury Povich Show than the witty barbs Austen and the posh ton often exchanged surreptitiously.
Don't worry that pesky romantic dialogue with Darcy will get in the way of a bad story, the author conveniently summarizes in a small paragraph every couple of chapters to update us that they are well in the way of love, that all the banter is witty, and that they both had such a good time together- no need for evidence.
Actual quote from book which I feel summarizes Darcy and Lizzy interactions;
“Mr. Darcy did not speak much more that day. Beyond the typical—though somewhat sparse—conversation exchanged between them, he spoke no words of true substance”
At least there is some self awareness, gotta give credit where its due.
Me on Jann Rowland;
The way Mr Rowland shrugs off showing dialogue reminds me of "Le Petit Prince" where the pilot draws the little prince a box in lieu of actually taking the effort to try and draw a sheep. When Jann does this I'm afraid it's much less endearing.
Jann Rowland: The Darcy and Lizzy relationship is in the box! I made it super romantic!
What frustrated me most was Lizzy enduring with such passivity and lack of urgency her abusive family and Mr. Collins forced marriage. She is stated repeatedly by other characters to be strong and witty but she isn't, she's a huge coward, she doesn't assert herself enough.
I'm expected to accept that Lizzy Bennet would be forced to the altar and then when her father isn't around in Kent she wouldn't jump to travel on post, run off to London, or Ireland, or heck the Americas?
She's got options! Money, her aunt and uncle- by jove she's supposed to be smart!
Instead Lizzy diligently waits for Darcy to come and rescue her!
(Thats one of the many instances when the fact that this yarn was written by a man becomes painfully evident)
Then he comes and they both decide she should live under the same roof as Mr Collins and I don't know try her best to avoid consummating the marriage while they get a notary involved?! Fingers crossed Collins doesn't force himself on her! He is a big guy and they don't know his deal! And Lizzy cites she wouldn't want to be rude to Collins or offend society?
ITS LUDICROUS!! JUST RUNAWAY! The longer she is there the more credible the marriage and her reputation is more ruined!
Some nice things I can say:
➳ The aunt and uncle at the beginning were well written and had good dialogue with Lizzy.
➳ The premiss was bittersweet made me think of poor Cossette (Lizzy) living with the Thenardier's (The Bennets) and then rescued by Jon Valjean (Gardiners), made my eyes tear up.
➳ Stories where Lizzy gets her full potential by ways of education, resources or growing up with the Gardiners are my kink
➳ Darcy and Lizzy meet cute at rest stop, but felt it should have been longer, maybe a conversation before either knows each others name (but I understand this author doesn't like them to talk too much for it reveals he hasn't the capacity to write a witty Lizzy or a compelling Darcy, so I get keeping his cards close to home).
The most haunting mystery of this whole sordid affair was and is how this book has so many positive ratings. Tis no secret JAFF is graded on a scale, and while the sentiment of giving everyone a 'That a boy!' for trying is noble, it makes for a perilous navigation when trying to discern which book to invest your money and time in.
I find it appalling and insincere.. Only the deepest JAFF will induce me into a 5 star review. For disguise of shitty writing is my abhorrence.
I am seriously puzzled! Please change my mind if you disagree, I need to understand why this author is so appreciated. The only silver lining I noted was his creative premisses, but his writing is so pulseless, his characters fall flat and one dimensional. They don't feel like living breathing people, much less like ODC! I really cannot comprehend why people enjoy his writing.
Conclusion:
It kept me reading more with curiosity if it would get good since the reviews are so stellar and it's so long, to around 45% were I was at my wits end.
It's GAD AWFUL, so so bad. 1 star. It's more than it deserves.
“Next to being content with a good work, a girl likes to be crossed in JAFF a little now and then. It is something to be frustrated with, and gives her all sort of material to roast the author in her review for her companions."
This was terrible. But you know what? That’s ok! Half the fun for me in reading is much like Lizzy and Mr B: laughing at follies and pairing them with a gif! And isn't that beautiful? Like the Chinese art of repurposing broken ceramic by filing the cracks with gold instead of throwing the lot away. Thus next bad book you read derive some pleasure out of it by reframing it through a humorous lens, in the manner all grief in this world is best managed: laughter.
I wouldn't reread, and this is the second novel I have endured with this oddly lauded JAFF author and, dare I say, I shan't gamble with my time on his work again.
Some leeway for deviation in character is expected, allowed and welcomed in JAFF as long as circumstances reflect the degree of the deviation.
Lizzy being more timid can be allowed for, but where is her wit? As to why the author chose to overhaul Darcy and his growth befuddles me. Darcy has magically become a perfect gentleman and we know not why. Maybe he’s born with it? Heck, maybe it's maybelline! We readers have no way of knowing.
I suspect this story would have been most compelling if we had this Lizzy who is more tender and refined (due to a season in London has become more apt at sketching characters), went toe to toe with the OG Darcy who is proud, and prone to make comments at inferior balls, slighting young ladies.
Lizzy being raised by her uncle in trade yet being more refined than most ladies of the ton and more accomplished would have been an interesting dynamic with a Darcy who is prejudiced against inferior connections and thus have his preconceived notions turned on its head.
Alas, that would be too close to a conflict for the author to endure. Instead enjoy these two vanilla Mary and Gary Sue, two hot, young, perfect people, that somehow make it work in this crazy, crazy, world. Sounds exciting, right?
The few dialogue scenes Darcy and Lizzy share are not compelling; we are told often what they think of each other without any basis. Darcy mentions Lizzy is well read before he has even spoken more than hello, he can just tell those eyes are educated as hell!
Their attraction or responses to one another are thus not believable; there is often giggling about something one or the other said but it is in no universe, timeline, or reality possibly funny.
One exchange, I kid you not, goes something like this;
Darcy: Bingley can't write legibly
Lizzy, who has barely met Bingley:
Me, reading:
Most of the romance is summarized in paragraphs. We are denied the delightful repartee which to most is what makes P&P romantic- perchance the author can't think up witty banter? Whose to say, but his bland and unoriginal dialogue leave much to be desired.
We all read Jane Austen for her famous cat fights and endure the romance and witty dialogue, right? Then this book is just for you! Get pages on pages of Lizzy having the same- beat the horse to death- verbal spats: with her family, with Caroline, and with Wickham! They feel more akin to ghetto showdowns on the Maury Povich Show than the witty barbs Austen and the posh ton often exchanged surreptitiously.
Don't worry that pesky romantic dialogue with Darcy will get in the way of a bad story, the author conveniently summarizes in a small paragraph every couple of chapters to update us that they are well in the way of love, that all the banter is witty, and that they both had such a good time together- no need for evidence.
Actual quote from book which I feel summarizes Darcy and Lizzy interactions;
“Mr. Darcy did not speak much more that day. Beyond the typical—though somewhat sparse—conversation exchanged between them, he spoke no words of true substance”
At least there is some self awareness, gotta give credit where its due.
Me on Jann Rowland;
The way Mr Rowland shrugs off showing dialogue reminds me of "Le Petit Prince" where the pilot draws the little prince a box in lieu of actually taking the effort to try and draw a sheep. When Jann does this I'm afraid it's much less endearing.
Jann Rowland: The Darcy and Lizzy relationship is in the box! I made it super romantic!
What frustrated me most was Lizzy enduring with such passivity and lack of urgency her abusive family and Mr. Collins forced marriage. She is stated repeatedly by other characters to be strong and witty but she isn't, she's a huge coward, she doesn't assert herself enough.
I'm expected to accept that Lizzy Bennet would be forced to the altar and then when her father isn't around in Kent she wouldn't jump to travel on post, run off to London, or Ireland, or heck the Americas?
She's got options! Money, her aunt and uncle- by jove she's supposed to be smart!
Instead Lizzy diligently waits for Darcy to come and rescue her!
(Thats one of the many instances when the fact that this yarn was written by a man becomes painfully evident)
Then he comes and they both decide she should live under the same roof as Mr Collins and I don't know try her best to avoid consummating the marriage while they get a notary involved?! Fingers crossed Collins doesn't force himself on her! He is a big guy and they don't know his deal! And Lizzy cites she wouldn't want to be rude to Collins or offend society?
ITS LUDICROUS!! JUST RUNAWAY! The longer she is there the more credible the marriage and her reputation is more ruined!
Some nice things I can say:
➳ The aunt and uncle at the beginning were well written and had good dialogue with Lizzy.
➳ The premiss was bittersweet made me think of poor Cossette (Lizzy) living with the Thenardier's (The Bennets) and then rescued by Jon Valjean (Gardiners), made my eyes tear up.
➳ Stories where Lizzy gets her full potential by ways of education, resources or growing up with the Gardiners are my kink
➳ Darcy and Lizzy meet cute at rest stop, but felt it should have been longer, maybe a conversation before either knows each others name (but I understand this author doesn't like them to talk too much for it reveals he hasn't the capacity to write a witty Lizzy or a compelling Darcy, so I get keeping his cards close to home).
The most haunting mystery of this whole sordid affair was and is how this book has so many positive ratings. Tis no secret JAFF is graded on a scale, and while the sentiment of giving everyone a 'That a boy!' for trying is noble, it makes for a perilous navigation when trying to discern which book to invest your money and time in.
I find it appalling and insincere.. Only the deepest JAFF will induce me into a 5 star review. For disguise of shitty writing is my abhorrence.
I am seriously puzzled! Please change my mind if you disagree, I need to understand why this author is so appreciated. The only silver lining I noted was his creative premisses, but his writing is so pulseless, his characters fall flat and one dimensional. They don't feel like living breathing people, much less like ODC! I really cannot comprehend why people enjoy his writing.
Conclusion:
It kept me reading more with curiosity if it would get good since the reviews are so stellar and it's so long, to around 45% were I was at my wits end.
It's GAD AWFUL, so so bad. 1 star. It's more than it deserves.
“Next to being content with a good work, a girl likes to be crossed in JAFF a little now and then. It is something to be frustrated with, and gives her all sort of material to roast the author in her review for her companions."
This was terrible. But you know what? That’s ok! Half the fun for me in reading is much like Lizzy and Mr B: laughing at follies and pairing them with a gif! And isn't that beautiful? Like the Chinese art of repurposing broken ceramic by filing the cracks with gold instead of throwing the lot away. Thus next bad book you read derive some pleasure out of it by reframing it through a humorous lens, in the manner all grief in this world is best managed: laughter.
I wouldn't reread, and this is the second novel I have endured with this oddly lauded JAFF author and, dare I say, I shan't gamble with my time on his work again.
January 8, 2017
Vintage Backlist Outing
Trolling through the search results for"Pride and Prejudice Variations" does turn up a gem from time-to-time. Jann Rowland's "Implacable Resentment" is a prime example. Rowland's sterling narrative skills make this wonderfully readable from first to last. The underlying plot unfolds to reveal an astonishing recasting of Lizzy's parents. All of the canonical characters rear their heads. Those not useful to Rowland's alternative are deftly sent offstage without the heavy-handed treatment of some author's. The meat of the story...ODC's budding romance...encounters some ingenious roadblocks. This includes a dark secret in Lizzy's past. These reviews are often difficult to make without revealing spoilers. So I will not. Read this for yourself for a great and elevated JAFF experience.
Trolling through the search results for"Pride and Prejudice Variations" does turn up a gem from time-to-time. Jann Rowland's "Implacable Resentment" is a prime example. Rowland's sterling narrative skills make this wonderfully readable from first to last. The underlying plot unfolds to reveal an astonishing recasting of Lizzy's parents. All of the canonical characters rear their heads. Those not useful to Rowland's alternative are deftly sent offstage without the heavy-handed treatment of some author's. The meat of the story...ODC's budding romance...encounters some ingenious roadblocks. This includes a dark secret in Lizzy's past. These reviews are often difficult to make without revealing spoilers. So I will not. Read this for yourself for a great and elevated JAFF experience.
July 14, 2022
A tale of bad parents
I can’t remember a story where Mr. Bennet was worse than in this story. Lizzy is treated worse than a stray dog until, at the age of 9, she is passed to the Gardiners who raise her. At 17 she is summoned back to Longbourn to be wed to Collins.
A very good story with lots of plot events we don’t normally read. Annulment, her father hitting her are just a couple of them. This is a real page turner.
I recommend this book.
I can’t remember a story where Mr. Bennet was worse than in this story. Lizzy is treated worse than a stray dog until, at the age of 9, she is passed to the Gardiners who raise her. At 17 she is summoned back to Longbourn to be wed to Collins.
A very good story with lots of plot events we don’t normally read. Annulment, her father hitting her are just a couple of them. This is a real page turner.
I recommend this book.
December 9, 2021
Still enjoy this book. The ending has some issues. We sorta get an abrupt happy tale of the future in the middle of a plodding account leading up to the "weddings." Overall, very enjoyable read. Has a bit of romance and adventure. Mostly it's poor Elizabeth trying to free herself. Very enjoyable. I will note that there are some errors in the writing (wrong word, etra word) that i think the author should clean up, especially since i had to pay to read this the second time.
Highly recommend to all JAFF lovers. Definitly not a cannon tale.
Highly recommend to all JAFF lovers. Definitly not a cannon tale.
August 19, 2016
Dear reader,
Imagine a nine year old little girl named Elizabeth,illiterate,malnourished, psychologically abused and physically neglected by those whose job is to cherish, love and protect her.
Imagine said child being the victim of daily verbal abuse at the hands of the person who gave her life,of hostile words with the specific aim of causing undue hurt,sorrow and pain in a tender heart,where only innocence,playfulness and natural joie de vivre should dwell.
Imagine a parent,witnessing his child brace this daily and unfailing humiliation,having so much antipathy towards her that he not only refuses to put a halt to such behaviour,but by his silence,quietly consents to its continuation.
Imagine her then being whisked away by a relative,upon witnessing such wilful neglect, to the far more salubrious settings of his London home,to be daily enveloped in love,understanding and total acceptance.
Given such an opportunity this little girl,over the course of the next decade,blossoms into a witty,highly intelligent,strong and outspoken woman,and such she would have continued if not for the summons to return to the family home.
What would befall this now nineteen year old lady,forced to remain under the rule of parents that were and are alien to her? What might happen when forced to counteract the vociferous claims made by her mother,what of the dangerous glint in her father's eye?
Would you believe the extent of the heinous plot hatched by her father to make her pay for a childhood incident that in no way she could be deemed guilty of?
To think that this witty and charming lady would be coerced into marrying a lascivious,slimy relation so as to forestall the eventual 'eviction' of her mother,upon the death of her father, is beyond imaginable,but dear reader,that is what befell our heroine.
In fact,not only was she forced into this 'marriage' but the horrific steps that were deployed and the speed of the proceedings tempted me to put this book aside,so utterly disgusted was I at this unwarranted treatment of her.
It was only due to the encouraging words of a friend who had previously read this book, and another who started reading it shortly after,that I continued on this torturous journey.
I don't use those words lightly,for a torturous journey lies ahead for both the reader and our heroine,as she plans an escape route from this ridiculous marriage,a marriage, thankfully,in name only.
How is such a plan to be deployed,I hear you ask?? Well,with the help of her knight in shining armour,a deeply loyal,fiercely devoted,endearingly steadfast man in the guise of one F.Darcy!!!
Of course,one cannot forget the stately Lady C. and her vile and determined efforts to see this marriage prevail. To think Lady C. more befitting a resident of Bedlam rather than Rosings is,I assure you,quite natural, especially when you are privy to her machinations!
I must add that although I couldn't envision how one would occur while reading the majority of the story,there is actually a very HEA for ODC,one that not only is richly deserved by Darcy and Elizabeth,but by you too!
On a final note,this book was a difficult one for me to read. I do recommend it,but please
note that Elizabeth suffers quite a lot at the hands of both her parents. I personally found little pleasure in reading the details,but knew that such were necessary for her final redemption and HEA.
Imagine a nine year old little girl named Elizabeth,illiterate,malnourished, psychologically abused and physically neglected by those whose job is to cherish, love and protect her.
Imagine said child being the victim of daily verbal abuse at the hands of the person who gave her life,of hostile words with the specific aim of causing undue hurt,sorrow and pain in a tender heart,where only innocence,playfulness and natural joie de vivre should dwell.
Imagine a parent,witnessing his child brace this daily and unfailing humiliation,having so much antipathy towards her that he not only refuses to put a halt to such behaviour,but by his silence,quietly consents to its continuation.
Imagine her then being whisked away by a relative,upon witnessing such wilful neglect, to the far more salubrious settings of his London home,to be daily enveloped in love,understanding and total acceptance.
Given such an opportunity this little girl,over the course of the next decade,blossoms into a witty,highly intelligent,strong and outspoken woman,and such she would have continued if not for the summons to return to the family home.
What would befall this now nineteen year old lady,forced to remain under the rule of parents that were and are alien to her? What might happen when forced to counteract the vociferous claims made by her mother,what of the dangerous glint in her father's eye?
Would you believe the extent of the heinous plot hatched by her father to make her pay for a childhood incident that in no way she could be deemed guilty of?
To think that this witty and charming lady would be coerced into marrying a lascivious,slimy relation so as to forestall the eventual 'eviction' of her mother,upon the death of her father, is beyond imaginable,but dear reader,that is what befell our heroine.
In fact,not only was she forced into this 'marriage' but the horrific steps that were deployed and the speed of the proceedings tempted me to put this book aside,so utterly disgusted was I at this unwarranted treatment of her.
It was only due to the encouraging words of a friend who had previously read this book, and another who started reading it shortly after,that I continued on this torturous journey.
I don't use those words lightly,for a torturous journey lies ahead for both the reader and our heroine,as she plans an escape route from this ridiculous marriage,a marriage, thankfully,in name only.
How is such a plan to be deployed,I hear you ask?? Well,with the help of her knight in shining armour,a deeply loyal,fiercely devoted,endearingly steadfast man in the guise of one F.Darcy!!!
Of course,one cannot forget the stately Lady C. and her vile and determined efforts to see this marriage prevail. To think Lady C. more befitting a resident of Bedlam rather than Rosings is,I assure you,quite natural, especially when you are privy to her machinations!
I must add that although I couldn't envision how one would occur while reading the majority of the story,there is actually a very HEA for ODC,one that not only is richly deserved by Darcy and Elizabeth,but by you too!
On a final note,this book was a difficult one for me to read. I do recommend it,but please
note that Elizabeth suffers quite a lot at the hands of both her parents. I personally found little pleasure in reading the details,but knew that such were necessary for her final redemption and HEA.
December 20, 2015
This is a trauma and angst filled P&P what if. Beginning with Elizabeth being emotionally abused and physically and mentally neglected by her parents Thus at age nine (9) she goes to London to live with the Gardiners and has no contact with the Bennets until her presence is demanded at Longbourn in her 19th year. If you are like me you will be railing at both Lizzy and the Gardiners about allowing her to return but I digress.
This is a book of less Pride and less Prejudice as that Darcy meets Lizzy before she reaches Meryton and is a young lady of fashion. You will LOATHE the Mr & Mrs. Bennet and most of the daughters. You will be angry at the Gardiners and really think Lizzy is a stupid quim at points.
When you learn why the Bennets required her return you will wonder if they ate off of too many lead plates... because it is insane. Lizzy and Darcy are separated and much of the book details their steps to reunite. While you learn to loathe Lady Catherine and Mr. Collins more than ever.
Truly this book is heart wrenching, even though you know there will be a HEA it is really hard to read. That said it is a unique and clever, albeit depressing, P&P variation.
This is a book of less Pride and less Prejudice as that Darcy meets Lizzy before she reaches Meryton and is a young lady of fashion. You will LOATHE the Mr & Mrs. Bennet and most of the daughters. You will be angry at the Gardiners and really think Lizzy is a stupid quim at points.
When you learn why the Bennets required her return you will wonder if they ate off of too many lead plates... because it is insane. Lizzy and Darcy are separated and much of the book details their steps to reunite. While you learn to loathe Lady Catherine and Mr. Collins more than ever.
Truly this book is heart wrenching, even though you know there will be a HEA it is really hard to read. That said it is a unique and clever, albeit depressing, P&P variation.
November 29, 2021
Nasty Parents
Reviewed in Canada on August 6, 2019
Very different non-canon story. Mr. and Mrs. Bennet were horrible people. I’m not sure I liked that, but it is the story the author wanted to tell, and he does it in a well-written manner. I prefer likeable Bennets. It’s angsty at times, but not severely so. The Gardiners were wonderful, and Mr. Darcy saves Elizabeth to achieve our HEA. The other usual villains were cringeworthy. It’s a good story and I do recommend it. Contains some proofreading/grammatical errors.
Reviewed in Canada on August 6, 2019
Very different non-canon story. Mr. and Mrs. Bennet were horrible people. I’m not sure I liked that, but it is the story the author wanted to tell, and he does it in a well-written manner. I prefer likeable Bennets. It’s angsty at times, but not severely so. The Gardiners were wonderful, and Mr. Darcy saves Elizabeth to achieve our HEA. The other usual villains were cringeworthy. It’s a good story and I do recommend it. Contains some proofreading/grammatical errors.
August 25, 2020
Wow! I am at a loss here because the emotional agony of Elizabeth was intense through the entire book. So much that it became almost unbearable. Parents with guilt, sickening revenge, child abuse, forced marriage, etc. was all in there. Of course everyone lives happily ever after, but if It takes a strong person I think to read through all the tragedy. I also must state that I hate Mr Bennet in this version - truly hate him.
2nd read - I did change a few shelves, but in general, the review stands.
2nd read - I did change a few shelves, but in general, the review stands.
July 31, 2017
Incredible
I believe this is my favorite plot that Mr Rowland has written. Loved the angst, the hardship and the road to HEA. If I could rate this higher than 5 stars I would. Couldn't put this book down!
Highly recommend!
I believe this is my favorite plot that Mr Rowland has written. Loved the angst, the hardship and the road to HEA. If I could rate this higher than 5 stars I would. Couldn't put this book down!
Highly recommend!
March 19, 2018
In this Pride and Prejudice variation Elizabeth Bennet after spending ten years with the Gardiners is summoned home. Home to the unwelcoming Bennets - to varying degrees - because of her past actions. Obviously there is Darcy, with obstacles to having a happy ending with Elizabeth, Collins and Lady Catherine with the deliciously awful Bennet parents.
A well-written story deserving of a 3.5 rating.
A well-written story deserving of a 3.5 rating.
December 16, 2015
WOW ! Just great
I have read scores of P and P sequels. I have added mr. Rowland to my list of favorite author's. If I could give this six stars I would. Thank you mr. Rowland.
I have read scores of P and P sequels. I have added mr. Rowland to my list of favorite author's. If I could give this six stars I would. Thank you mr. Rowland.
August 19, 2019
Mr & Mrs Bennet’s character deficiencies are taken to extreme because of an unclear unfortunate event in Elizabeth’s infancy. As a result there is an angsty but very captivating plot with a completely different conflict. I’m not sure how realistic is the conflict resolution in terms of historical accuracy, but it is well developed and all the characters play their part.
The ending is rushed and leaves a feeling that an immediate HEA is achieved to save the paper.
The ending is rushed and leaves a feeling that an immediate HEA is achieved to save the paper.
February 23, 2023
The book had me in angst most of the time but I wish the author had come up with a better backstory as to why E had to go live in London.
February 27, 2023
I didn't read the entire book, still, I read most of it. It was definitely not for me. The plot was ridiculous and it was hard to read. Not because of all that useless drama though. The absurd circumstances, events, and the dubious credibility of the entire story were difficult to overlook. To imagine that someone could hold accountable a two-year-old baby for anything at all was not believable, especially since her parents seemed to be quite reasonable with Elizabeth's sisters and with children in general. Mr. Bennet was really hard to understand since he decided to hate his baby daughter( although she was his favorite until the accident) instead of condemning his stupid wife for her negligent behavior towards his heir. Toddlers, as we know, cannot survive without proper care, they barely walk or talk, they can't even eat by themselves. Let's be serious! Maybe if Elizabeth was older, like five or six, and her vivacity and disobedient nature caused the accident it would have been a little bit less absurd. Three years of torture and abuse would have still been enough for the author to make his point. Of course, since the biggest part of the story turns around that terrible event and its consequences, nothing could have been done to salvage the rest of the book. The love story is not really interesting because Darcy is not Darcy at all, but then again if he was his real self it would have been really too much for Elizabeth. So he was nice and boring. I can't believe that he left Elizabeth with Collins for so long.
The forced marriage itself was another absurd plotline. It didn't need annulation at all because it was entirely illegal. After all, since Elizabeth signed the register with a false name, Mr. Collins was married to Marie Antoinette. Yes, I am not kidding at all. After having a very honest conversation with a church representative, the man just let her alone in Collin's house, with a man who is definitely not her legal husband. What if he was cruel and insisted on consuming the illegal marriage in a much more abusive manner?
My two stars are for the Gardeners and Jane, they were quite fabulous. I liked Anne too and the Colonel. The rest was just not worth it. All those forced tragic events made the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth less interesting and challenging. I am ready to recognize that I hate PP variations with mean Mr. Bennet because I think that Elizabeth's relationship with her father is a very important thing in the canon. Still, I like to see a different less caring version of the man, but never a stupid one. His responses are so difficult to believe and impossible to justify. Apparently he didn't care about his entire family or about anything really, why would he care if he has an heir to Longbourne after his death? And why would he force a marriage between Elizabeth and his heir Mr. Collins knowing well that she wouldn't take care of her family after all they did to her, mistress of Longbourne or not?
As for Lydia being the favorite child... please, it is one thing for Mrs. Bennet to feel more attached to her youngest daughter because they are of a similar disposition, it is entirely different to abuse your baby girl for your own shortcomings.
Consequently, I do not recommend especially for Austen's purists.
The forced marriage itself was another absurd plotline. It didn't need annulation at all because it was entirely illegal. After all, since Elizabeth signed the register with a false name, Mr. Collins was married to Marie Antoinette. Yes, I am not kidding at all. After having a very honest conversation with a church representative, the man just let her alone in Collin's house, with a man who is definitely not her legal husband. What if he was cruel and insisted on consuming the illegal marriage in a much more abusive manner?
My two stars are for the Gardeners and Jane, they were quite fabulous. I liked Anne too and the Colonel. The rest was just not worth it. All those forced tragic events made the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth less interesting and challenging. I am ready to recognize that I hate PP variations with mean Mr. Bennet because I think that Elizabeth's relationship with her father is a very important thing in the canon. Still, I like to see a different less caring version of the man, but never a stupid one. His responses are so difficult to believe and impossible to justify. Apparently he didn't care about his entire family or about anything really, why would he care if he has an heir to Longbourne after his death? And why would he force a marriage between Elizabeth and his heir Mr. Collins knowing well that she wouldn't take care of her family after all they did to her, mistress of Longbourne or not?
As for Lydia being the favorite child... please, it is one thing for Mrs. Bennet to feel more attached to her youngest daughter because they are of a similar disposition, it is entirely different to abuse your baby girl for your own shortcomings.
Consequently, I do not recommend especially for Austen's purists.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2021
It’s difficult to write a review about this book. It’s great. But also extremely sad. Abuse is a taboo topic and this book seeks to bring it out in the open. Of course it’s fiction and there is a happy ending, yet the topic stays in ones soul and moves them to do something about situations like these in the community we live in today.
February 7, 2016
Pretty intense
I loved this variation to our beloved story that starts in Elizabeth's infancy. Different and dramatic, I really enjoyed it.
Highly recommended!
I loved this variation to our beloved story that starts in Elizabeth's infancy. Different and dramatic, I really enjoyed it.
Highly recommended!
July 15, 2024
Fail
As an avid reader of Jann Rowland books, I can’t begin to tell you the disappointment I found and reading this variant. It truly hurts me to leave this review but readers need to be cautioned before parting with their hard earned money. I have always been able to purchase Jann Rowland’s books just because he wrote them and without any hesitation. I use to trust that that each story would be good. This is no longer the case.
The circumstances in this book were beyond the pale. So many of the elements in the book that led to the different points of drama seemed forced and unrealistic. For example, the characterization of Mr. and Mrs. Bennett were beyond reason. The whole premise of blaming a two-year-old for the death of a infant is not logical. Also, the Gardiners and Lizzie decision to return her to Longbourne after a 10 year absence and years of abuse and neglect was confusing. The marriage to Collins and immediate annulment was completely hogwash and seemed to be included to fill pages of an already over dramatic and complicated storyline.
I don’t know if Yann is going through something in his life that lead him to believe it is alright to put out this type of drivel, but I would highly recommend not purchasing this book. I read this book through the Kindle Unlimited program so I can fortunately delete it and forget it without lasting affects on my wallet. However, the time it took to resd this book is a lost I feel keenly.
As an avid reader of Jann Rowland books, I can’t begin to tell you the disappointment I found and reading this variant. It truly hurts me to leave this review but readers need to be cautioned before parting with their hard earned money. I have always been able to purchase Jann Rowland’s books just because he wrote them and without any hesitation. I use to trust that that each story would be good. This is no longer the case.
The circumstances in this book were beyond the pale. So many of the elements in the book that led to the different points of drama seemed forced and unrealistic. For example, the characterization of Mr. and Mrs. Bennett were beyond reason. The whole premise of blaming a two-year-old for the death of a infant is not logical. Also, the Gardiners and Lizzie decision to return her to Longbourne after a 10 year absence and years of abuse and neglect was confusing. The marriage to Collins and immediate annulment was completely hogwash and seemed to be included to fill pages of an already over dramatic and complicated storyline.
I don’t know if Yann is going through something in his life that lead him to believe it is alright to put out this type of drivel, but I would highly recommend not purchasing this book. I read this book through the Kindle Unlimited program so I can fortunately delete it and forget it without lasting affects on my wallet. However, the time it took to resd this book is a lost I feel keenly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2023
Original Premise
I appreciate the originality of this story. For me, the story presented a few irreconcilable flaws in logic that dampened the experience.
1. An ecclesiastical court seems unlikely to release a young woman (who is NOT his wife) to the exclusive care of a person who has already done her harm. To do so, especially to a man about whom there were already grave ministerial concerns is inconsistent. Confidentiality between pastors and persons to whom they minister is no light matter. It points to a grave moral corruption. And coupled with the apparent disregard for the wellbeing of a presumed spouse, the scenario as presented is just woefully naive. I doubt a man rises to the rank of the Archbishop of Canterbury by being naive.
2. Regardless of how strong and competent a woman is, a early 19th century man seems unlikely to leave her to shift for herself & defend her own maiden virtue for weeks at a time.
3. A woman who has been brutally backhanded by one who ought to be her caregiver will show the physical marks of that strike for some time. She, no matter how resilient, will carry (at minimum) immediate emotional marks that would reasonably prevent her from diving into social engagements.
If Mr. Rowland takes these things into consideration and writes a second edition, I would gladly read it.
I appreciate the originality of this story. For me, the story presented a few irreconcilable flaws in logic that dampened the experience.
1. An ecclesiastical court seems unlikely to release a young woman (who is NOT his wife) to the exclusive care of a person who has already done her harm. To do so, especially to a man about whom there were already grave ministerial concerns is inconsistent. Confidentiality between pastors and persons to whom they minister is no light matter. It points to a grave moral corruption. And coupled with the apparent disregard for the wellbeing of a presumed spouse, the scenario as presented is just woefully naive. I doubt a man rises to the rank of the Archbishop of Canterbury by being naive.
2. Regardless of how strong and competent a woman is, a early 19th century man seems unlikely to leave her to shift for herself & defend her own maiden virtue for weeks at a time.
3. A woman who has been brutally backhanded by one who ought to be her caregiver will show the physical marks of that strike for some time. She, no matter how resilient, will carry (at minimum) immediate emotional marks that would reasonably prevent her from diving into social engagements.
If Mr. Rowland takes these things into consideration and writes a second edition, I would gladly read it.
September 2, 2024
This is one of those books where u hate M/M bennets from the bottom of your heart. The way they have treated E is truly despicable.
I wish the author had spent few more pages on the misery they face at the end. I feel they didn't get enough Karma
This E is very crafty and D is very resourceful but I feel it beggars belief to have E stay in with Collins and hoping he wont force himself on her. that is a bit unbelievable.
Mr. C and Lady Catherine are their usual selves. Anne and Colonel F are very nice and support the ODCs
This Jane is so much better and even Mary by the time when she gets her eyes opened are true sisters. Both Jane and Bingley have real steel in them and they don't hesitate to show that off when situation warrants
M/M Gardiners were absolutely adorable.
Overall a very nice book. there are few places when ur heart cries for E but overall the angst is low
I wish the author had spent few more pages on the misery they face at the end. I feel they didn't get enough Karma
This E is very crafty and D is very resourceful but I feel it beggars belief to have E stay in with Collins and hoping he wont force himself on her. that is a bit unbelievable.
Mr. C and Lady Catherine are their usual selves. Anne and Colonel F are very nice and support the ODCs
This Jane is so much better and even Mary by the time when she gets her eyes opened are true sisters. Both Jane and Bingley have real steel in them and they don't hesitate to show that off when situation warrants
M/M Gardiners were absolutely adorable.
Overall a very nice book. there are few places when ur heart cries for E but overall the angst is low
August 8, 2017
Well-written; however, it was a bit too angsty for me. Mr. Bennet was truly evil in this book. Hated him with a passion. The reason Mr. and Mrs. Bennet hate Elizabeth is beyond unreasonable, and I felt, pretty unbelievable. Mr. Collins? Can I just say "Yuck"? Mr. Rowland wrote so well that reading about Mr. Collins actually gave me the creeps. I was sorry that Mr. Bennet didn't get more of a comeuppance, after being awful for most of Elizabeth's life. In this book, Darcy and Elizabeth as a couple were really secondary to the main story that was occurring.
June 5, 2021
The part of this book following Mr. Bennet’s proclamation that Elizabeth was was such a page turner that I found myself skipping through any dialogue or descriptions and straight to the action. It’s is a little difficult to imagine a Mr. Bennet as horrible as this one, so irrational, but the book is coherent and all the the characters develop in a consistent way. I think it’s the book by Jann Rowland I’ve liked best. Darcy and Elizabeth speak unkindly about other characters less in this book than the others.
November 6, 2021
A sad beginning
This story begins when Elizabeth Bennet is 9 years old. Because of the continuous physical and psychological abuse, she is merely a husk of a child. Her newly married aunt and uncle Gardiner remove her from Longbourn and take her to their London home.
Ten years later, Mr. Bennet sends for to return to Longbourn. Being a dutiful daughter, she returns only to find that nothing has changed. Her only consolation is being reunited with Jane.
But Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are not finished with her.
49
This story begins when Elizabeth Bennet is 9 years old. Because of the continuous physical and psychological abuse, she is merely a husk of a child. Her newly married aunt and uncle Gardiner remove her from Longbourn and take her to their London home.
Ten years later, Mr. Bennet sends for to return to Longbourn. Being a dutiful daughter, she returns only to find that nothing has changed. Her only consolation is being reunited with Jane.
But Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are not finished with her.
49
April 25, 2023
What if Pride and Prejudice were a serious drama rather than a masterful comedy of manners? What if Mr. Bennet's satiric approach to life were taken to its darkest logical conclusion? This book is less a JAFF than a reimagining of the configuration of Austen's characters in an entirely different genre. The book is astonishingly good. It's beautifully written and intricately crafted, and is very hard to put down. Some JAFF are great but tend to blend together over time. This one won't -- it's unique, and truly impressive in its depth of emotion and insight.
May 1, 2019
I always enjoy the variations served up from Jan n Rowland. This tale had plenty of angst, but not between Darcy and Elizabeth. And in this tale, as a child, Elizabeth is separated from her family being blamed for a terrible accident by her parents. Than goodness for the loving home of an aunt and uncle. This is a great story dealing with loss and how the pain of that loss can make us do terrible things to others in our family whom we blame. This is a very good read.
February 9, 2020
Excellent story
What Elizabeth went through, but I applaud Hahn Rowland for making Elizabeth so strong. Jane was quiet, but once she let go watch out. Bingley and Darcy were amazing. Mr and Mrs Bennet worse parents ever and I was blown away. Lydia was extremely worse. Mr Collins absolutely off balance and extremely bad. Mr and Mrs Gardiner extremely together and people you would want in your life. This story was well thought through and we'll written. Highly recommended
What Elizabeth went through, but I applaud Hahn Rowland for making Elizabeth so strong. Jane was quiet, but once she let go watch out. Bingley and Darcy were amazing. Mr and Mrs Bennet worse parents ever and I was blown away. Lydia was extremely worse. Mr Collins absolutely off balance and extremely bad. Mr and Mrs Gardiner extremely together and people you would want in your life. This story was well thought through and we'll written. Highly recommended
March 3, 2021
Excellent.
I was enthralled from beginning to end. There was a foreshadowing that almost scared me off, but by then I was hooked and had no choice but to read on. The storyline and the characters were extremely well done. But what I came away with as most important was the skill of this writer. His use of the English language very much impressed me. I am immediately going to find my next Rowland book.
I was enthralled from beginning to end. There was a foreshadowing that almost scared me off, but by then I was hooked and had no choice but to read on. The storyline and the characters were extremely well done. But what I came away with as most important was the skill of this writer. His use of the English language very much impressed me. I am immediately going to find my next Rowland book.
August 1, 2022
A portrait of true evil
Lots of angst in this alternate universe where little Elizabeth is emotionally abused and neglected by her parents. She is aided by the Gardiners in her journey to adulthood, and assisted by Darcy in her battle to get free of Collins. Her father is a truly dreadful character, and there are several others who join him. A wrenching vision of the damage that can be done by bad parenting but a happily ever after for our dear couple.
Lots of angst in this alternate universe where little Elizabeth is emotionally abused and neglected by her parents. She is aided by the Gardiners in her journey to adulthood, and assisted by Darcy in her battle to get free of Collins. Her father is a truly dreadful character, and there are several others who join him. A wrenching vision of the damage that can be done by bad parenting but a happily ever after for our dear couple.
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