Progression Vol. 2: A Continuation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice

by Jodi L. Covey

A crucial card game, a fencing match, a battle, and a ball! Volume two continues in London, where turmoil and conflict abounds as the Darcys' try to make the best of their unavoidable first Season only half a year into the marriage.

Under the guidance of Lady Matlock, both Georgiana and Elizabeth are to be formally introduced to Society's elite, including a special invitation to meet the illustrious Lady Patronesses of Almack's, who preside over the most exclusive balls of the Season.

Elizabeth inadvertently becomes the subject of Town gossip at the same time her marriage to William has brought forth new and wonderful circumstances, and finds it difficult to overcome Society's scrutiny on her own. Will Darcy come to her rescue, or stubbornly ignore what he helped to create?

With Elizabeth's influence, Georgiana's once deflated confidence grows stronger by the day, and with it new and troubling doubts about the brother she'd always seen as no less than perfect.

Meanwhile, as a favor to Charles Bingley, Darcy formulates a plan to expose Caroline Bingley's suitor, the enigmatic Marquess Thornhaugh, as the mercenary he is suspected to be. In order to do so, however, Darcy must enlist the help of not only a reviled relation, but also the hated George Wickham, who claims to know all about the nobleman and is willing to be of service. For a price, of course.

Caroline Bingley is certain that all are against her as she is determined to claim her worthy position as a marchioness. How far will she go to secure her coveted title?

Richard Fitzwilliam forgoes the Season in favor of fighting for King and Country in the war against Napoleon to the bereavement of his family, especially Lord Matlock, who'd always had other plans for this middle son.

Charlotte Collins also ventures to London as companion to Anne DeBourgh, who is determined to break free from her mother's "protection" and live her own life. Charlotte is optimistic, but is so much independence so switfly asserted really in the innocent young woman's best interest?

Despite a deep love and strong bond, fear and uncertainty still plague Mr. and Mrs. Darcy, and a certain marquess cannot seem to help playing to those insecurities as he both antagonizes and challenges Mr. Darcy to a problematic extent. His family's future at stake, Darcy realizes that proving his love to Elizabeth was only half the battle. Now he must prove it to the World.

This is the second volume of two.

Genres: Romance, Fan Fiction, Historical Fiction

229 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 17, 2016

About the author

Jodi L. Covey is an Alabama native with a B.S. in Journalism, but a passion for great storytelling. Her love of Pride and Prejudice began in 2003, after which a growing obsession with continuing Austen's wonderful story followed. She currently lives in Florence, Alabama with her awesome husband and daughter.

Reviews

[Barb · Rating 4 out of 5]

A stunning story of the time after marriage for Darcy and Elizabeth. In this continuation, Elizabeth and Georgiana are entering the ton, and society is not being kind. Darcy made a major misstep early in their marriage which has society tittering behind their hands that the marriage was a mistake he now regrets. This can't be further from the truth, but the Darcy's are in a hole and need help to rise above.

Lady Matlock has a plan and it involves Almacks and the frightening matrons who determine who will be accepted. This idea centers around Georgiana's coming out as a way to relaunch Mrs. Darcy. So now we have three reluctant participants - Elizabeth who is just doing it for the family but is afraid she is too much of an outsider, Georgiana who is doing it for Elizabeth but is truly not ready to enter society, and Darcy who just doesn't want to see Elizabeth and Georgiana changed into society ladies and doesn't want to share them with anyone. This combination is not allowing society to see the marriage in any kind of better light!

In addition, Caroline has her own very serious drama with the man she has chosen to replace Darcy in her affections. Meantime, Colonel Fitzwilliam is feeling that he no longer can sit back safely in the militia, and want to join the regulars in their fight against Napoleon. But, Lord Matlock is totally opposed to him putting himself in harms way.

One of the best aspects of this story is how three-dimensional the author has made our favorite characters. We see all sides of Elizabeth as she tries to stay true to herself, yet become the society matron the family needs her to be, and, in addition, be supportive of her husband in his struggles. Darcy may have improved himself for Elizabeth, but he is still Darcy - aloof, restrained, proud, and resistant to change. He fights this having to prove to society his marriage is strong and resents having to open up his heart for others to see, but he knows he must do this for Elizabeth. Georgiana is becoming more and more mature and worldly, yet cannot trust herself when it comes to relationships - how will she know who is sincere and who is not? Coming out is a frightening prospect, but she will do it for Elizabeth and her family. Even the minor characters are well drawn and we feel Caroline sinking into madness and Colonel Fitzwilliam's struggles to become his own man.

Finally we have the story that will continue into the third book of the series - that of Miss Anne de Bourgh. Anne has broken free of her mother and come to London to stay with the Matlocks. She has brought Mrs. Collins (the former Charlotte Lucas) with her as support. Anne is not a young ingenue, yet her heart is still very innocent and she is a bit naive. She is growing stronger and bolder and is having the time of her life in London - for once free of her mother's restrictions. All of this, however, places her at risk. Her family wish to see her enjoying herself, but they know her wealth puts her at risk for scoundrels and they are watching very carefully.

What I loved most about the story is the wonderful language in the writing. This sounds so much like the language of Austen's era. Not all authors can accomplish this, but this author writes very effectively with a tone of the Regency. All in all, I found this a very satisfactory read, as long as the reader is comfortable with series reading. The story does not end here, although some aspects are brought to conclusion.

Highly recommended for JAFF lovers, and those readers of Regency historic fiction.

[J. W. Garrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Whether you choose to move on from your struggles and enjoy life or waddle in your misery, life will continue.” –Germany Kent

This is book 2 in the Progression series. It picks up right where the first book ended. In fact, instead of a chapter 1, we start with chapter 37.

There are several plot threads… Lady Matlock is busy doing damage control on the Darcy’s marriage and their behavior shortly after they first married. Darcy was so busy enjoying his honeymoon that he kept them sequestered in their chambers and never went out in public. Thus, leaving the ton wondering what was up with that? He then whisked her off to Pemberley without even giving her time to secure a new wardrobe suitable for her new station as the wife of Fitzwilliam Darcy. He just wasn’t thinking… yeah, damage control indeed. The rumors and gossip were rampant in regard to the new Mrs. Darcy. What was wrong with her… was he ashamed of her that he wouldn’t even take her into public?

Georgiana was having her come-out season. Her confidence level had soared and with the influence of her new sister Elizabeth… had overcome her shyness and was now able to be impertinent on her own. She was so cute. Her new-found behavior vacillated back and forth at times… and occasionally, it would get the best of her.

Bingley’s intervention with Caroline [this story went south quickly and I am still scratching my head] created a bit of a scandal. Not sure what this was all about. One minute we are dealing with her and suddenly she was being whisked off to the north.

Elizabeth was trying to make her way in the first circles and with the patronesses at Almac’s. She was a mystery to many of the old guard and a fresh face to the new guard and the ton. They were intrigued by her and wanted to see what she would do next. She did not disappoint.

Anne de Bourgh: “Discontent is the first necessity of progress.” –Thomas A. Edison

Anne declared her independence and ventured to London with Mrs. Collins in tow. Lady Catherine was not pleased. Georgiana and Elizabeth rallied and convinced Lady C that Anne should be allowed to attend Georgiana’s presentation. It was a scene straight out of a stage production. It was so cute. There was a big question regarding Anne as this story ended … was she really having a friendship or was she being groomed for a seduction?


Richard: “We sleep safely at night because rough men stand ready to visit violence on those who would harm us.” –Winston S. Churchill

Against the wishes of his family and especially his father, Richard left the safety of the militia and joined the regulars. He then shipped out for the battle in Spain. Eventually, he was hurt on the battlefield, but not wounded. We have his perspective on his relationship with his family and his thoughts on how he was hurt and his determination to do well for his family and his country. Bless his heart.

Wickham: “Look at how a man behaves with the women in his life and you will know if he is a gentleman or a scoundrel!” –Avijeet Das

Lydia was on the page about five minutes and then we didn’t see her again. Perhaps she will be in the next book.

Darcy: “Honest men cannot be expected to anticipate the actions of scoundrels.” –Mary Street, The Confessions of Fitzwilliam Darcy

Darcy needed Wickham’s help in sorting out Lord Thornhaugh’s behavior. Wickham had knowledge and a working familiarity with the gaming hells that Darcy and Bingley didn’t. Once inside the game room, Wickham was able to give a running commentary on Lord Thornhaugh’s strategies and his tactics at the card table. Wickham was part of Darcy’s plan to use a scoundrel to catch a scoundrel. Will Wickham use it against Darcy in the future?

Cliffhanger or a pause in the narrative: When this story ended, it left several story threads to be carried over into vol 3:

Lord Thornhaugh: “No great scoundrel is ever uninteresting.” –Murray Kempton

Good guy or evil incarnate: Does he really leave or was it a ruse? What does his father the duke do next?

Mrs. Collins: what was that thought of hers just as the story ended?

Caroline: what about her situation?

Lord Russell: I liked him… he seemed like one of the good guys. What will happen with him? Will he be given a chance to pay a call? I have a suspicion as to what happens but… I will have to wait. I hope it works out.

Lydia and Wickham: I wonder what will happen to her and or them?

[Carole (in Canada) · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Immediately after reading Volume 1, I started reading Volume 2 and found this to be the more dynamic of the two volumes. It immediately picks up where the last book left off providing more depth to the story. This is an engaging and well written sequel that bestows wonderful satisfaction to many details that were building up in Volume 1. There is so much that I have enjoyed in this story and look forward with great anticipation to Volume 3.

[Sheila Majczan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is now the second of how many in a series? The author has been urged by her fans to continue on with her story as most of us have fallen in love with her style and her creativity in handling the ongoing saga of the Darcy/Bennet/Fitzwilliam/deBourgh families. I do NOT usually look for sequels as I so love variations on P&P but I have a dear friend who has a blog (Just Jane 1813) and likes sequels and, even in knowing my tastes, will point out sequels of fine quality so here I am not only loving the two in this series but greatly looking forward to the continuing WIP on fanfiction ( https://www.fanfiction.net/s/11884237/1/ ).

Where the first book took us gently along the honeymoon, Christmas at Pemberley and a return to London for ODC with some retrospect, with little angst and a few secondary story lines, Volume 2 brings on the angst! The high note at the end of Volume 1 continues as Elizabeth and Darcy share their joy in the expectation of a child. But a friend suffers a miscarriage and we join in the sorrow of seeing Colonel Fitzwilliam off to war. With his voluntary decision to joins the forces on the continent putting aside his father’s connections to keep him safe, Richard risks his father’s cutting ties, such is his father’s anger at this move. Richard has some ulterior motives for this which he doesn’t share but you must read his thoughts for yourself. Late in the story we learn that war is no respecter of persons. (No, he doesn’t die, but...)

In this volume, yes, we have more than one highpoint in following the extended family and their acquaintances.

One is in Darcy’s need to control that comes into play early on. After all do you really think he is going to allow Elizabeth all her exuberance in horseback riding, etc., as he now knows she is carrying his child? The dynamics here with Darcy’s demands, Elizabeth’s actions and then capitulation and even Georgiana’s bravado in expressing her own opinion about the matter was a small step in our novel but a GIANT step for our dear girl.

I found another step in reading of Georgiana’s musing about her experience with Wickham, sharing with Elizabeth how vulnerable women are with such men about. She learns that Elizabeth knew of this and thinks none the less about her. And we read of Georgiana’s further growth despite new situations and even some opposition in her attempts to enter into society. I was saying, “Brava, Georgiana” when she took a breath and stood firm in her decision to play her selection at Almack’s.

Anne de Bourgh’s part in the story is a surprise. She too grows a backbone and brings Charlotte into her “escape” from Lady Catherine’s tyranny. But as she is so “green”, so new to society, we also find a period, along with Darcy of wanting to warn her about the “sharks in the water.” Charlotte joins in our fears.

Caroline Bingley’s relationship with the ignoble Marquess Thornhaugh plays out in several very dramatic scenes: a call for the men associated with her by blood or by marriage to meet at White’s, a call for Wickham to use his knowledge of the low lives in London and also his talents at gaming to delve out the complexities of character in that man, a bet involving a clap of thunder, a seduction and the decent of madness for one. Later a fencing match gives Darcy (and us) an insight into how sly a man is this man. And that man’s part in this story does not seem to be concluded as this part of the series ends.

Then we read of his brother, John, Lord Russell, the second born taking a liking to Georgiana and here, too, I think we can look for further developments. So many strings securing our interests, demanding more…

Darcy’s relationship with Elizabeth is under high scrutiny by the Matrons of Almack’s and of the haute monde. Both he and she overhear and/or are confronted directly as to those days when they hid away while on their London honeymoon and he is asked to consider how it looks, is he “…guarded, reluctant, aloof, ashamed?” Then another high point when he does something totally against his character, his usual behavior, Darcy stands before the assembly and sets them all down in his own way. Loved it and loved him in doing so.

So you can see here how I enjoyed it. Bring on Volume 3!

[Carol Perrin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Progression Volume 2: A Continuation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice

Wonderful story. Much going on with the Darcy and Fitzwilliam families. The big push to get Elizabeth and Georgiana accepted by the ladies of the prestigious Almack’s was a success. The snobbish attitude brought out Elizabeth's impertinent remarks so they called her the Eccentric Mrs. Darcy. Caroline's love interest, Marquess Thornhaugh, makes a wager with Bingley to not marry if Bingley wins or marry should he loose. Invited to a garden party at the Marquess' home, Caroline is told of his unfortunate gambling habits, but Caroline would give anything to be his wife with the title, riches, and properties so she could be better than Elizabeth Bennet Darcy. When he says "anything" she answers anything, and he takes he virtue in the guest bedroom. Confronting his father with her desires and hopes, he shows her his son's room. There is nothing in the room. He has taken and sold the contents of his room many of the items heirlooms never to be replaced. She is told that his son has no respect for his title and is presently seeking a way to making his second son his heir. Bingley rushes her to Netherfield with plans to move to Derbyshire. At this point Caroline has lost reality and is convinced that he will come for her. Anne de Bourgh has come to London to enjoy the season staying with her Aunt and Uncle Matlock. She informed her mother that she was leaving and Charlotte Collins would be going with her. With her usual screeching and yelling, Lady Catherine forbids her to leave. When Collins sides with Lady Catherine, Charlotte reminds him that Anne is the owner of Rosings. The night Darcy is dreading finally comes. With Wickham and his cousin, Lord Ashbourne, they meet at White's with Bingley and Marquess Thornhaugh for a card game. The Marquess won, and when Lord Ashbourne couldn't pay what he owed, the Marquess threatens him at knifepoint. Lord Ashbourne , being drunk, Darcy makes sure he gets home even though it is raining. Before leaving for Spain, Richard reminds her to forgive Darcy's outburst over riding. He reminds her that his whole existence lies in her hands. Richard was hurt when he took a fall off his horse during a battle and his the arm used to fight with his sword, the shoulder keeps dislocating so he is sent home to recover. Lord Ashbourne develops a cold from his trip in the rain that turns into pneumonia and the doctors have yet to make him better. Lord Russell, the Marquess younger brother, is taken with Georgiana. The Marquess is sent to India with only his winnings in his pocket possibly saving Anne from his schemes. After Darcy's regretfully harsh tirade at Elizabeth because she went riding with his aunt and sister on one of his London horses, Elizabeth turns and heads home, angry and riding faster than she ever had. Darcy is furious, Georgiana is appalled at his behavior, and Elizabeth in defiance says she will ride whenever she wants. Darcy never tells her what is causing his nightmares and why he is so protective of her. Eventually everything works out and as a surprise and apology, Darcy has brought Calipso to London for Elizabeth to ride as long as someone else is with her. Much is left to new discoveries in Volume 3. Cannot wait for this Volume.

[Ree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Vol. 2
Reviewed in Canada on March 22, 2019
I loved this volume, a very good continuing sequel into the P&P characters I adore. The dialogue is good, and the story, while taking turns at looking at different characters, including some new ones, doesn’t ever drift too far from the love story of E&D, which to me, is so very precious. Darcy’s speech — swoon. Very well done. I can’t wait to read the next volume which I have waiting for me.

I own the three-volume set, but reviewed each book separately.

[Susanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I first read Progression (now separated into two volumes) on FanFiction.net, and I was enthralled! I absolutely adored it, and re-reading it now was even better. A delightful continuation of Austen's Pride and Prejudice, chapters 1-36 may be found in Volume 1 and chapters 37-61 may be found in Volume 2.

Starting with the Darcys' double wedding with Bingley and Jane, we follow William and Elizabeth through their honeymoon period and into Elizabeth's (and Georgiana's) introduction into London Society at the behest of Darcy's aunt, the Countess of Matlock. Caroline Bingley is also pursued by the mysterious Marquess of Thornhaugh. Anne De Bourgh manages to stand up to her mother and remove herself to London for the Season. And Colonel Fitzwilliam goes against his family in order to go to war against the French in the Spanish Peninsula.

Much more happens in both volumes of Progression, but I'll leave that for you to enjoy...and enjoy it you will!

[Madenna U · Rating 3 out of 5]

Luckily, I had both volume 1 and 2 with me when I started reading as they are really one story. Again as the first there is no real ending. Therefore, I assume that volume 3 or more is coming out later. The story, while enjoyable, is at this point like watching a good soap opera.

[L Syl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worth reading

I disagree with the reader that only left one star this book is worth reading. I look forward to the next volume.

[Teresita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting developments

The relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is developing wonderfully, Georgiana is growing up, Richard understands lots of things, Anne finds her voice... A great continuation, can't wait to read the next volume.

[Les · Rating 4 out of 5]

We join this Episode of How the Regency World turns in progress. Literally the first chapter is in the 30s. As I read this I felt like I was watching a soap opera.

Lizzy has an announcement
Caroline chooses poorly
Col. Fitzwilliam goes to war
The Marquess exposes his dark side
Georgiana comes out at Almacks
Lizzy is declared eccentric
Anne deBourg grows a spine
Kitty gets a suitor
Wickham is useful

You get a chapter or two on one plot line and then move to another one and when you are finished you get more questions than answers


Tune in to the next book to learn
Will the Earl's heir survive
Will Col. Fitzwilliam come home
Is Lizzy carrying the heir ?
Can Wickham be useful?
Are Anne and Caroline pawns in a bigger game.

[Elin Eriksen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my, this was a thrilling read.

Elizabeths entrance into high sosiety is not going too well. It is painful to read the mistakes Mr Darcy does on that account...
However there is hope...
Caroline has a suitor but that might be a wolf in a sheepskin.
Can't wait to read the third book.

Heartily recommend this book.

[lori huff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another gem

After reading volume one, I couldn't wait to get to vol. two. Now I'm more than impatient to start the next. Ms. Covey has jam-packed this story with delicious experiences for all of your favorite P&P characters. The twists and turns are amazing and clever, leaving the reader hungry for more and deeply invested everyone's outcome.
As was the case in the first volume, the editing and spelling are very good, very few mistakes. This deserves special mention since the vast majority of these JAFF works are rife with annoying mistakes that break up the flow of the story. Bravo to your proof readers.

I wasn't sure I would like a P&P continuation. Sort of like movie sequels never being the equal of the original. Somehow this author has come up with very compelling situations that make us care more than ever about all the beloved characters, even the nasty ones.

[Julia M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick Read

A different continuation of Pride and Prejudice. I have read several and this one is fluff. Easy to read on a cold gray winter day. No thinking required. Somewhat unrealistic in the way Georgianna and Elizabeth are portrayed as so outspoken. But, what can you expect from fluff?

[Elizabeth Bennet · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book didn't hold the joy that Vol. 1 held for me. In this book Lady Matlock is trying to elevate Lizzy's view in the ton after the rumors and whispering are all over London. Rumors that Darcy is ashamed of his new bride and spends no time with her in public out of regrets. Of course, you as the reader are aware that the Darcy's occupy their time in other ways and we all know how Darcy is in crowded public assemblies and social functions. When he realizes how cruel she is being treated he feels he has failed her and there is one moment that will make you sigh. Lady Matlock has a ball at Almanack's in their honor and Georgiana plays a song that is a waltz. This is still considered a scandalous dance but it is Darcy that not only brings it to the floor for the first time but the words he expresses to everyone there leaves no doubt that he is most definitely not ashamed of Lizzy.

Marquess Thornhaugh is the evil element in this book and it is made very clear that not only is he worse than Whickham but that he knows how to hurt Darcy. He knows Lizzy is Darcy's weakness. Now for the things I did not like. The author writes well but I was disappointed with particular scenes she just stopped. The main one was when Darcy first teaches Lizzy to waltz. She asks him where he learned it and when he tells her it also brings to mind his past with possible other ladies. She gets so jealous and upset she casts up her accounts and is assisted by Darcy instead of her maid. I was really engrossed as this was never clarified in book 1. We hear Lizzy's insecurity but then for some reason the author has Lizzy rationalizing this and Darcy's view is never given and to boot he is written as though he does not understand what upset her in the first place. So disappointed was I because then there is so much emphasis on this ball and how Charlotte, Lady Catherine are coping. There are moments with the colonel in his battle, Georgiana and preparing Lizzy for this ball it just took away from the couple in their personal relationship. The common and private moments such as Darcy's life before her. I like to read those moments and felt it could have been added. Okay lastly, the marquess walks out on the balcony at the ball when he sees Lizzy pinned against a wall by an unsavory character and rescues her. You know that he has his own agenda for doing this as he knows she is Darcy's weakness but then when given the opportunity she never lets on to her beloved what took place. It felt uncomfortably intimate a secret between Lizzy and the marquess. This is a clean read. You know that this is just going to make Lizzy trust him but it still made me cringe. I can't answer at present rather or not I will continue on with Vol. 3 but since it is not out yet I guess I have time to think it over. Enjoy!

[Sandra Gebhard · Rating 5 out of 5]

2nd book but not the last

I just as good as the first book. I really wished I'd realised there is supposed to be a 3rd. I don't usually like reading serials unless they're all published or I know the author has a "quick" turn around time. Oh, and the end of this book is technically a cliffhanger but not an unnecessarily contrived or awkward one.

[Kim Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Following on from the 1st book in this series of four, this is another one I have just re-read after quite some time. Again, I had forgotten how good it was. The whole cast of P&P are included in these books, along with some new characters. I really like the changes that the author has written for the characters and am now thinking I will have to purchase the next one.

[Nicol Legakis · Rating 3 out of 5]

The sequel is another cliffhanger. This series of novellas would have been better as one meaty volume. I guess the author feared those who read P&P fan fiction have short attention spans. Still, I enjoy the writing.

[Allison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Looking forward to part 3

[Kerri · Rating 1 out of 5]

So boring, can't hold my interest at all. Where's the fire between Darcy and Elizabeth? And for heaven's sake, stop narrating the story and let the characters speak for themselves!