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Side by Side Apart
"You see what a strange circumstance it is." She felt some fleeting relief. "You know our acquaintance has not been easy." Elizabeth Bennet--stubborn, quick to judge but slow to revise her opinions, and entirely prejudiced against the man who had just proposed marriage at Hunsford--awakens to learn she has been in an accident. Bedridden in an unfamiliar house, she learns eleven years have passed since the last moment she can remember. She finds herself a married woman, mother of four, and pregnant yet again. Her children are strangers, and most mystifying of all, Fitzwilliam Darcy is her husband! How could she have married a man she loathes? Confined to the house by her injury, Mr. Darcy's company is inescapable. But is just being side by side enough to overcome their differences? What happens when Darcy, improved in manners and happily married to Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy, is faced with an obstinate, bewildered Miss Elizabeth Bennet?
188 pages, Paperback
Published June 3, 2016
57 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
About the author
Ann Galvia
3 books27 followersAnn started writing sometime before she knew how letters functioned. Her first books were drawings of circus poodles heavily annotated with scribbles meant to tell a story. Upon learning how letters were combined to represent words, she started doing that instead. This has proven to be much more successful.
Sometime after that, she decided she wanted to study Anthropology and sometime after that, she decided she liked cats more than dogs. And sometime after that, she decided to become an educator and teach a new generation of kids how to combine letters to represent words, and use those words to express ideas.
And sometime after that, she realized all she really wanted to do was write, which probably should have been evident from the beginning.
Sometime after that, she decided she wanted to study Anthropology and sometime after that, she decided she liked cats more than dogs. And sometime after that, she decided to become an educator and teach a new generation of kids how to combine letters to represent words, and use those words to express ideas.
And sometime after that, she realized all she really wanted to do was write, which probably should have been evident from the beginning.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
May 2, 2016
I read this at Fanfiction.net a while back when it was called 'Bruises'. Currently at 4.5 stars.
Will update my review once I've finished re-reading this.
Will update my review once I've finished re-reading this.
July 16, 2016
This is a book where I greatly enjoyed the concept but was disappointed by the execution.
This P&P sequel, set 11 year after Elizabeth & Darcy married, begins with Elizabeth hit upon the head by a sconce and recalling none of the past 12 years. Her last recollection is Mr. Darcy's dreadful proposal at Hunsford parsonage. But she is Mrs. Darcy mother of 4 and expecting number 5.
My displeasure in the book came in several segments. The first was that no one wanted to fill her in on her life.... which seemed stupid- so she was constantly 'stepping in it' by saying or doing something that offend or injured.
Then there was the inability of anyone sensible to visit. Lady Gray, aka Georgiana, is 50 miles away. And as Mr. Darcy says in P&P and what is 50 miles of good road; a half days journey. But it is too far for Georgiana to travel to her beloved and addled sister. Later in the book it is noted that Georgiana crosses her pages to save postage. Postage was paid by the recipient so Georgiana could have written her post on canvases in 6 inch letters and the Darcy's would never even blink.
And lastly there was Darcy. I did not like this Darcy his is a ill mannered buffoon. When Lizzy is delivered of her latest child he won't let her breastfeed so the child won't contract the bad humors that caused her memory loss - Oh F Off Fitzwilliam.
The end of the story really bogged down and I found myself skimming through the endless conversation between Lizzy & Darcy
This P&P sequel, set 11 year after Elizabeth & Darcy married, begins with Elizabeth hit upon the head by a sconce and recalling none of the past 12 years. Her last recollection is Mr. Darcy's dreadful proposal at Hunsford parsonage. But she is Mrs. Darcy mother of 4 and expecting number 5.
My displeasure in the book came in several segments. The first was that no one wanted to fill her in on her life.... which seemed stupid- so she was constantly 'stepping in it' by saying or doing something that offend or injured.
Then there was the inability of anyone sensible to visit. Lady Gray, aka Georgiana, is 50 miles away. And as Mr. Darcy says in P&P and what is 50 miles of good road; a half days journey. But it is too far for Georgiana to travel to her beloved and addled sister. Later in the book it is noted that Georgiana crosses her pages to save postage. Postage was paid by the recipient so Georgiana could have written her post on canvases in 6 inch letters and the Darcy's would never even blink.
And lastly there was Darcy. I did not like this Darcy his is a ill mannered buffoon. When Lizzy is delivered of her latest child he won't let her breastfeed so the child won't contract the bad humors that caused her memory loss - Oh F Off Fitzwilliam.
The end of the story really bogged down and I found myself skimming through the endless conversation between Lizzy & Darcy
January 14, 2018
What If a Head Injury Stole Eleven Years of Memories from Elizabeth Darcy?
After almost eleven years of wedded bliss, Elizabeth Darcy wakes up from a head injury not remembering anything beyond the Hunsford proposal. Darcy’s offensive and arrogant proposal and her vehement rejection is the last encounter she remembers with the loathsome man she apparently married many years ago. With four children in their household and one on the way, Elizabeth’s injury and memory-loss are taken very seriously. She is forced to submit to bedrest to protect her unborn baby and ensure her strength during its delivery. Elizabeth has much to learn about all the events of her life in the past eleven years, but the event she finds most unfathomable is how she became married to the last man in the world she “could ever be prevailed upon to marry”…
Poor Mr. Darcy is forced to revert to one of the most painful times of his life. A time where his love was unreturned and his chances of future happiness seemed very improbable. His wife does not currently return any feelings of love and affection towards him. In fact, she very much mistrusts him, dislikes him, and perpetually assumes the worst about him. And that is where the crux of the problem lies:
“You cannot recall choosing me. You do not recall my making myself acceptable to you. Our joys, our triumphs, our fears, ours suffering are unknown to you. Elizabeth, you are trapped in a life you did not wish for, one you violently rejected.” (page 158)
Gah!!! Isn’t that heart-wrenching?!? And so like Darcy to see how all of this is perceived by her, to understand how she must view him, and to cautiously keep away in accordance with her unspoken wishes. One of the things I loved most about this imaginative and poignant story was witnessing the tender and compassionate actions of a most incomparable Mr. Darcy. A Mr. Darcy that is utterly selfless and giving. A reflective Mr. Darcy that sees the flaws in his own character and upbringing and thoughtfully decides to do differently by his children. How easy it was to once again fall irrevocably in love with Mr. Darcy in this tale!
I applaud Ms. Galvia for dreaming up such a creative premise. Many authors show Darcy and Elizabeth deal with their misunderstandings and conflicts before becoming engaged or as newlyweds, but not many show Darcy and Elizabeth facing some discord and distance after several years of marriage. It was an interesting premise to explore, especially as it uncovers and slowly reveals the past experiences of these two characters. I thought the myriad of Elizabeth’s feelings and reactions such as confusion, doubt, frustration, guilt, pity, respect, and admiration were all eloquently represented. I truly enjoyed the slow progression of Elizabeth’s emotional development. Just because she loved Mr. Darcy in the past doesn’t mean she can easily will herself to do so now. And with her expressive portrayal of Mr. Darcy’s anguish and affection my heart felt his pain and was warmed by his exemplary devotion.
Another element I enjoyed in this tale were all the little details included to give readers some history of the Darcys’ lives up until this point. I loved learning about their children and witnessing their individual personalities and proclivities. And being privy to some of the letters Elizabeth received and wrote was an exceptionally lovely touch; it revealed a lot about the past to Elizabeth and the reader. Nothing in this story was extraneous; it all helped fill in the gaps of the past and complete the picture of Elizabeth’s life.
Emotive, articulate, and exquisitely rendered – Side by Side, Apart is a phenomenal debut release by Ann Galvia! It introduces some realism and turmoil into the Darcys’ lives – which may not be everyone’s cup of tea – but for my part, I often delight in Pride and Prejudice tales that are more inventive and daring. Especially when they are beautifully and thoughtfully composed like this one! I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
After almost eleven years of wedded bliss, Elizabeth Darcy wakes up from a head injury not remembering anything beyond the Hunsford proposal. Darcy’s offensive and arrogant proposal and her vehement rejection is the last encounter she remembers with the loathsome man she apparently married many years ago. With four children in their household and one on the way, Elizabeth’s injury and memory-loss are taken very seriously. She is forced to submit to bedrest to protect her unborn baby and ensure her strength during its delivery. Elizabeth has much to learn about all the events of her life in the past eleven years, but the event she finds most unfathomable is how she became married to the last man in the world she “could ever be prevailed upon to marry”…
Poor Mr. Darcy is forced to revert to one of the most painful times of his life. A time where his love was unreturned and his chances of future happiness seemed very improbable. His wife does not currently return any feelings of love and affection towards him. In fact, she very much mistrusts him, dislikes him, and perpetually assumes the worst about him. And that is where the crux of the problem lies:
“You cannot recall choosing me. You do not recall my making myself acceptable to you. Our joys, our triumphs, our fears, ours suffering are unknown to you. Elizabeth, you are trapped in a life you did not wish for, one you violently rejected.” (page 158)
Gah!!! Isn’t that heart-wrenching?!? And so like Darcy to see how all of this is perceived by her, to understand how she must view him, and to cautiously keep away in accordance with her unspoken wishes. One of the things I loved most about this imaginative and poignant story was witnessing the tender and compassionate actions of a most incomparable Mr. Darcy. A Mr. Darcy that is utterly selfless and giving. A reflective Mr. Darcy that sees the flaws in his own character and upbringing and thoughtfully decides to do differently by his children. How easy it was to once again fall irrevocably in love with Mr. Darcy in this tale!
I applaud Ms. Galvia for dreaming up such a creative premise. Many authors show Darcy and Elizabeth deal with their misunderstandings and conflicts before becoming engaged or as newlyweds, but not many show Darcy and Elizabeth facing some discord and distance after several years of marriage. It was an interesting premise to explore, especially as it uncovers and slowly reveals the past experiences of these two characters. I thought the myriad of Elizabeth’s feelings and reactions such as confusion, doubt, frustration, guilt, pity, respect, and admiration were all eloquently represented. I truly enjoyed the slow progression of Elizabeth’s emotional development. Just because she loved Mr. Darcy in the past doesn’t mean she can easily will herself to do so now. And with her expressive portrayal of Mr. Darcy’s anguish and affection my heart felt his pain and was warmed by his exemplary devotion.
Another element I enjoyed in this tale were all the little details included to give readers some history of the Darcys’ lives up until this point. I loved learning about their children and witnessing their individual personalities and proclivities. And being privy to some of the letters Elizabeth received and wrote was an exceptionally lovely touch; it revealed a lot about the past to Elizabeth and the reader. Nothing in this story was extraneous; it all helped fill in the gaps of the past and complete the picture of Elizabeth’s life.
Emotive, articulate, and exquisitely rendered – Side by Side, Apart is a phenomenal debut release by Ann Galvia! It introduces some realism and turmoil into the Darcys’ lives – which may not be everyone’s cup of tea – but for my part, I often delight in Pride and Prejudice tales that are more inventive and daring. Especially when they are beautifully and thoughtfully composed like this one! I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
July 10, 2016
Trying to remember the things she has forgotten: 4.5 stars
First I want to say the cover was most excellent. I mean…I loved it. The art work was exceptional.
Elizabeth Bennet wakes up with a terrible headache and finds out that she has had an accident. She also has forgotten the last eleven years of her life. Not only does she find herself married to the haughty Mr. Darcy, but she is in the advanced stages of a pregnancy and there are several children of various ages that insist on calling her mama.
We know the background story of our beloved P&P and all the trouble that Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam went through in their journey toward their HEA. Well, all that is gone as Elizabeth no longer remembers that journey or their HEA. Elizabeth is very confused as to how she was prevailed upon to marry Mr. Darcy when she was so decidedly against him. How on earth do they have all these children? In her mind she was still a virgin. Why do they have Lydia’s children? What happened to her life that placed her at Pemberley?
I loved this Darcy. I’ve never seen him in this light. He was no simpering, fawning, love sick moon-calf. I simply fell in love with him [all over again] just from his actions toward Elizabeth. This must be a painful time for him. He was so controlled and never let on that this had thrown a major wrench into his life and the lives of his/their children. It was painful to watch him quietly and calmly answer all Elizabeth’s questions as she tried to sort out what became of her life and how she arrived where she was.
What changed her mind toward Mr. Darcy? The last thing she remembered was his haughty behavior at Netherfield Park, his separating Jane and Bingley, and his withholding advantages to Mr. Wickham. Nothing made sense and she would get a headache if she thought about it too much.
This was a slow and arduous journey for ODC. The language was most excellent. I enjoyed seeing the parenting philosophy that Darcy reminded Elizabeth that they had established with the children. The way the staff helped as Elizabeth recovered from her accident.
Mr. and Mrs. Bennet arrived and caused problems in the Pemberley routine as any visiting grandparent can. Mr. Bennet spent his time in the Pemberley library. Mrs. Bennet minimized Elizabeth’s illness and other than telling her to do her duty, pretty much ignored her second daughter. She spent the majority of her time distracting the children from their studies and practice. It was hilarious how her thinking was so convoluted. That was Mrs. Bennet.
I was disappointed that to the very last chapter we saw very little improvement in Elizabeth’s memory. There was no epilogue and not a lot to bring the conclusion to a smooth end. It was rather abrupt. What the heck happened to everyone?
Note added later: there was a nod to other Austen works in the names of the children and the governess. Try to see if you can find them. Also, the fact the Darcy's had sponsored a nephew in the Navy and had taken in another child was a nod to Mansfield Park. I loved finding those little extras.
First I want to say the cover was most excellent. I mean…I loved it. The art work was exceptional.
Elizabeth Bennet wakes up with a terrible headache and finds out that she has had an accident. She also has forgotten the last eleven years of her life. Not only does she find herself married to the haughty Mr. Darcy, but she is in the advanced stages of a pregnancy and there are several children of various ages that insist on calling her mama.
We know the background story of our beloved P&P and all the trouble that Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam went through in their journey toward their HEA. Well, all that is gone as Elizabeth no longer remembers that journey or their HEA. Elizabeth is very confused as to how she was prevailed upon to marry Mr. Darcy when she was so decidedly against him. How on earth do they have all these children? In her mind she was still a virgin. Why do they have Lydia’s children? What happened to her life that placed her at Pemberley?
I loved this Darcy. I’ve never seen him in this light. He was no simpering, fawning, love sick moon-calf. I simply fell in love with him [all over again] just from his actions toward Elizabeth. This must be a painful time for him. He was so controlled and never let on that this had thrown a major wrench into his life and the lives of his/their children. It was painful to watch him quietly and calmly answer all Elizabeth’s questions as she tried to sort out what became of her life and how she arrived where she was.
What changed her mind toward Mr. Darcy? The last thing she remembered was his haughty behavior at Netherfield Park, his separating Jane and Bingley, and his withholding advantages to Mr. Wickham. Nothing made sense and she would get a headache if she thought about it too much.
This was a slow and arduous journey for ODC. The language was most excellent. I enjoyed seeing the parenting philosophy that Darcy reminded Elizabeth that they had established with the children. The way the staff helped as Elizabeth recovered from her accident.
Mr. and Mrs. Bennet arrived and caused problems in the Pemberley routine as any visiting grandparent can. Mr. Bennet spent his time in the Pemberley library. Mrs. Bennet minimized Elizabeth’s illness and other than telling her to do her duty, pretty much ignored her second daughter. She spent the majority of her time distracting the children from their studies and practice. It was hilarious how her thinking was so convoluted. That was Mrs. Bennet.
I was disappointed that to the very last chapter we saw very little improvement in Elizabeth’s memory. There was no epilogue and not a lot to bring the conclusion to a smooth end. It was rather abrupt. What the heck happened to everyone?
Note added later: there was a nod to other Austen works in the names of the children and the governess. Try to see if you can find them. Also, the fact the Darcy's had sponsored a nephew in the Navy and had taken in another child was a nod to Mansfield Park. I loved finding those little extras.
May 11, 2016
What would it be like to wake up from a severe head injury to realize you have lost eleven years of your life? Elizabeth Darcy is now married and has children with the last man in the world she could ever be prevailed upon to marry. Darcy, her children, her servants, and her family all quietly work to help restore her memories and sense of self. It was fascinating, moving, and heartwarming to see this woman find herself and see her husband and family through new eyes.
I have read many amnesia romances and like what they did to a story, but this was unique because it was one of the few that I read for an after the happily ever after situation. It was like a middle-aged woman was getting a re-set right in the middle of a full life. The last memories she has of the man she calls husband is that she can't stand him and now he is her husband, father of her children, and she is pregnant with his child. Elizabeth must figure out how and why while trying to continue on with a life that she cannot remember. She is a mistress of a grand estate, a mother, and a wife. Though she has no feelings for this world and these people, she bravely decides to do her best and go forward.
The story is all from her perspective. It is like a mystery of sorts as she figures out her own life. Her biggest mystery is why did she marry Fitzwilliam Darcy. Darcy is taciturn and circumspect. She has to observe him carefully to see that her memory loss is his own deep loss. Slowly she figures out that the arrogant, hateful man she thought he was eleven years before was so very much in the wrong. It is his selfless acts, surprising kindnesses, and obvious love of herself and their children that slowly work on her.
This is a bittersweet tale in that it is a slow go and sad as Elizabeth has to learn to love her children and like and respect let alone love her husband. Nothing is easily discovered even if she questions her ladies' maid, her parents, her sister, her children, and her husband. It was a long road back and I found that as she found her way, I was really cheering her on.
It was a gently-paced story that had an authentic feel to the times. Propriety, language, taste, and activities were all just as would be for the time. It was a picture of family life for a wealthy landed family of Regency times.
Elizabeth is the central figure, but her family and staff were well-drawn. There are several scenes with her children. However, it is the growing romance with her husband that captured my attention most. Darcy is patient with her, but his love and passion are there smoldering and waiting.
So, this was a unique story that I found amazing and sweet. My first time with this author, but I doubt it will be my last. I would recommend this to sweet historical romance, historical fiction, and Austenesque fans quite easily.
My thanks to Meryton Press for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have read many amnesia romances and like what they did to a story, but this was unique because it was one of the few that I read for an after the happily ever after situation. It was like a middle-aged woman was getting a re-set right in the middle of a full life. The last memories she has of the man she calls husband is that she can't stand him and now he is her husband, father of her children, and she is pregnant with his child. Elizabeth must figure out how and why while trying to continue on with a life that she cannot remember. She is a mistress of a grand estate, a mother, and a wife. Though she has no feelings for this world and these people, she bravely decides to do her best and go forward.
The story is all from her perspective. It is like a mystery of sorts as she figures out her own life. Her biggest mystery is why did she marry Fitzwilliam Darcy. Darcy is taciturn and circumspect. She has to observe him carefully to see that her memory loss is his own deep loss. Slowly she figures out that the arrogant, hateful man she thought he was eleven years before was so very much in the wrong. It is his selfless acts, surprising kindnesses, and obvious love of herself and their children that slowly work on her.
This is a bittersweet tale in that it is a slow go and sad as Elizabeth has to learn to love her children and like and respect let alone love her husband. Nothing is easily discovered even if she questions her ladies' maid, her parents, her sister, her children, and her husband. It was a long road back and I found that as she found her way, I was really cheering her on.
It was a gently-paced story that had an authentic feel to the times. Propriety, language, taste, and activities were all just as would be for the time. It was a picture of family life for a wealthy landed family of Regency times.
Elizabeth is the central figure, but her family and staff were well-drawn. There are several scenes with her children. However, it is the growing romance with her husband that captured my attention most. Darcy is patient with her, but his love and passion are there smoldering and waiting.
So, this was a unique story that I found amazing and sweet. My first time with this author, but I doubt it will be my last. I would recommend this to sweet historical romance, historical fiction, and Austenesque fans quite easily.
My thanks to Meryton Press for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2017
Amnesia is not a new premise for writers to use in their stories. It is, however, unique in this tale as it happens eleven years into the marriage of Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy. They have 4 children, with one on the way, when Elizabeth wakes with no memory after a serious injury and those years do not exist in her mind. All she seems to know is that Mr. Darcy appears to be in charge! The last man in the world she could be prevailed upon to marry due to his ungentlemanly like manner! How did this happen?
I am at a loss to write more of what is beautifully written within the pages of this book. I felt thrown back to the beginning of their acquaintance and I was starting from square one, but not sure if I would end up where I should. However, in my opinion, Ms. Galvia wants you to experience Elizabeth's loss of memory for yourself and how she struggles to come to grips with it. We don't get all the information we would like but neither does Elizabeth. Your sympathies are engaged for Mr. Darcy, as we all know how much he loves her. His shock at finding that all eleven years of their marriage are lost to Elizabeth and now she doesn't even like him! Yes, we meet each of the children and our heart breaks for them as their mother has no idea what makes each of them tick. We meet certain family members but not all. This is not a 'light' read and there is no 'miraculous' recovery. This is an emotionally provocative journey that truly tests them, but a journey that is well worth the taking.
I also want to note that the book cover is beautifully rendered as well. It certainly eludes to what is written within.
I am at a loss to write more of what is beautifully written within the pages of this book. I felt thrown back to the beginning of their acquaintance and I was starting from square one, but not sure if I would end up where I should. However, in my opinion, Ms. Galvia wants you to experience Elizabeth's loss of memory for yourself and how she struggles to come to grips with it. We don't get all the information we would like but neither does Elizabeth. Your sympathies are engaged for Mr. Darcy, as we all know how much he loves her. His shock at finding that all eleven years of their marriage are lost to Elizabeth and now she doesn't even like him! Yes, we meet each of the children and our heart breaks for them as their mother has no idea what makes each of them tick. We meet certain family members but not all. This is not a 'light' read and there is no 'miraculous' recovery. This is an emotionally provocative journey that truly tests them, but a journey that is well worth the taking.
I also want to note that the book cover is beautifully rendered as well. It certainly eludes to what is written within.
April 22, 2016
After eleven years of “wedded bliss” Elizabeth suffers a head injury which erases all those years and the happy times of courtship from her memory. Darcy proves how patient, generous and loving he can be in not knowing when their love might be rediscovered or even reestablished. She remembers only up to the Hunsford proposal and her hateful feelings towards this man who is intruding on her privacy. She notices immediately that she is pregnant so at some time she allowed him….but she can’t remember even how that works.
He sends for M/M Bennet, answers questions and fills in blanks slowly and carefully as she is not only injured but also feeling totally overwhelmed by being in a place and with family (does she really have children?) who are both strange and of unknown qualities to her.
In discussing and explaining the history and circumstances about her family Mary’s marriage becomes a topic. They banter back and forth about whether she married out of love or convenience. Charlotte’s marriage decision is mentioned. At the end Darcy approaches her and (unbeknownst to him) answers a question that has unsettled her. … “But you married for love. I would not have you think otherwise.” She was glad to think of Mrs. Darcy as a woman who loved her husband.
Then as she interacts with her own children (and niece) she ponders how hurt they must feel as she has not made the emotional connection they must feel lacking. Could it be that she then realizes how Darcy must also feel this lack, even though he knows and understands the cause?
And then she begins to wonder where he sleeps but has not the nerve to be embarrassed at asking…what reason might anyone attach to that question? Upon learning where he has been sleeping she invites him to join her in her bed “as she has slept with her sisters with no ill effects” but he reminds her that she thinks of herself a virgin. He…well, now I am going to tell you to read the book.
Oh and you must prepare yourself as Darcy calls Elizabeth to his study and gives her three sealed letters, written in her handwriting. “…These are letters you wrote to me before the births of….” I am sure you can imagine the feelings these arouse in Elizabeth (and in the reader). These are letters that were written in case of the worst scenario. Is this morbid? (Yes, I was blurry eyed reading them myself.) She loved him. She had known that she loved him.
I read this novel first as “Bruises” and am only too happy to reread it so as to post my unguarded recommendation that you read this absorbing and fascinating novel. The exploration into their feelings is oh so well done.
He sends for M/M Bennet, answers questions and fills in blanks slowly and carefully as she is not only injured but also feeling totally overwhelmed by being in a place and with family (does she really have children?) who are both strange and of unknown qualities to her.
In discussing and explaining the history and circumstances about her family Mary’s marriage becomes a topic. They banter back and forth about whether she married out of love or convenience. Charlotte’s marriage decision is mentioned. At the end Darcy approaches her and (unbeknownst to him) answers a question that has unsettled her. … “But you married for love. I would not have you think otherwise.” She was glad to think of Mrs. Darcy as a woman who loved her husband.
Then as she interacts with her own children (and niece) she ponders how hurt they must feel as she has not made the emotional connection they must feel lacking. Could it be that she then realizes how Darcy must also feel this lack, even though he knows and understands the cause?
And then she begins to wonder where he sleeps but has not the nerve to be embarrassed at asking…what reason might anyone attach to that question? Upon learning where he has been sleeping she invites him to join her in her bed “as she has slept with her sisters with no ill effects” but he reminds her that she thinks of herself a virgin. He…well, now I am going to tell you to read the book.
Oh and you must prepare yourself as Darcy calls Elizabeth to his study and gives her three sealed letters, written in her handwriting. “…These are letters you wrote to me before the births of….” I am sure you can imagine the feelings these arouse in Elizabeth (and in the reader). These are letters that were written in case of the worst scenario. Is this morbid? (Yes, I was blurry eyed reading them myself.) She loved him. She had known that she loved him.
I read this novel first as “Bruises” and am only too happy to reread it so as to post my unguarded recommendation that you read this absorbing and fascinating novel. The exploration into their feelings is oh so well done.
May 10, 2020
This review was first posted on Babblings of a Bookworm: https://babblingsofabookworm.blogspot...
This Pride & Prejudice sequel is set 11 years into the Darcys’ marriage. Elizabeth is alarmed to wake and find two men in her bedroom – she recognises one as Mr Darcy, though she has no idea why he would be there. She learns that she has received a head injury and has been unconscious for 12 hours. The awful truth dawns on her that she is married to Mr Darcy. She cannot understand this, because the last she remembers is him leaving Hunsford Parsonage. She can’t remember reading his letter, or conceive of how she could have been convinced to marry him. Did he force her hand in some way?
Imagine the shock you would feel if you woke up and had lost such a large chunk of your life – you look in the mirror and see your twenty year old self is suddenly 32; your slim figure is now the body of a mother, and you are pregnant again; you have children who you neither remember nor recognise and you are married to somebody who you actively dislike and mistrust. It is the stuff of nightmares. You would feel like you no longer knew yourself.
‘She could find the ghost of her former self in the mirror. Behind the face of a matron and mother, she thought she could find traces of the maid she once was.’
Imagine too, how awful this is for Mr Darcy. He has the worry of his wife’s health, the effect this may have on his children, and the emotional distress of having his loving wife’s feelings towards you being completely changed through no fault of his own. To Elizabeth’s credit, despite her dislike of Darcy and the greater problems she is dealing with, she is compassionate enough to realise that he is also a sufferer of her accident.
‘Darcy’s disappointed feelings where his wife was concerned had already become an object of her pity, but Elizabeth was pleased for Darcy’s sake that, while she could not love him, he had four children to do so.’
Aside from mental distress and confusion, Elizabeth also has other symptoms to deal with in recovering from her injuries. She is very easily fatigued both physically and from activities requiring concentration. This means no long walks, no reading, no sewing. Jane lives at an estate only thirty miles away but is initially unable to visit as she has just had a baby. This means that Elizabeth is unable to do much of anything aside from spend time with her family of strangers and integrate into the household. Her only adult companionship is provided by Mr Darcy, who of course is not at ease, knowing what Elizabeth’s feelings must be toward him. One thing that Elizabeth is able to do is study the characters of Darcy and the children and slowly come to know them. But will knowing Darcy better mean that she is able to come to love him again? They are working through this situation side by side, but apart. Is there a way to fully bridge the gap?
This story was originally published online as a fanfiction called ‘Bruises’ which was recommended to me as a wonderful read and I was really pleased to see it published to a wider audience. I found 'Side by Side, Apart' to be a really absorbing story which I read in one sitting. It’s a story that is much more of an emotional journey than plot driven. I felt for the whole family as this was such a sad and worrying situation to find themselves in. I thought all the characters were well-drawn, most particularly Elizabeth. She is upset to find herself in her situation but I have always seen Elizabeth as very pragmatic; she isn’t a character to wail and wallow in misfortune but she will get on with whatever situation she is forced into. Here she is irrevocably bound to somebody she dislikes but she needs to get on with him civilly and she is not so unreasonable to close her eyes to his good qualities and his loving relationship with his children. She doesn’t have any particular feelings toward the children because they are strangers to her, but she is a compassionate person and is anxious not to upset them because she knows that to them she is their mother, even if she doesn’t feel like it.
I had such a lot of pity for Elizabeth in this situation, and the children too, but I almost pitied Darcy more! It would have been painful for him to have lived through Elizabeth hating him once, before they married, but to work through that and then have to go through it again must have been excruciating.
‘Elizabeth had maintained her silence on that score out of compassion, but such was in vain. Admitting she wondered whether she had ever loved him accomplished all the evils that asking him would have done.’
He is really stuck between a rock and a hard place here, because he’s Elizabeth’s only companion so she needs him so she isn’t too lonely and to fill in the gaps in her knowledge and yet, hampered by the knowledge of how he knows she feels towards him each conversation must be torturous for him, yet necessary for her and their future relationship, whether it recovers to what it was or not.
The only thing I would have liked in this story was a little more detail towards the end as I thought emotionally things moved a little quicker then than in the rest of the story. I was a little surprised that the story didn’t have an epilogue because Austenesque stories often do. It wasn’t required, but it would have been nice to have known what happened after we left the family, because the story was left on a realistic happy ending rather than a happy ending where all loose ends are tied up neatly.
I liked the author’s style very much. I thought the dialogue was nicely Austenesque. The spelling was British, which was a nice surprise, and there were only a few words which I felt were out of place. There are no sex scenes in this book.
I would recommend this book wholeheartedly. Although it’s a sad situation and an emotional read it’s realistic emotion and not made too angsty. I really enjoyed the book and when I was looking through it for the parts I’d highlighted to look for quotes to use in this review I found myself reading it again! ‘Side by Side, Apart’ gets five stars from me.
* I received an ebook of this story from the publishers as part of a blog tour.
This Pride & Prejudice sequel is set 11 years into the Darcys’ marriage. Elizabeth is alarmed to wake and find two men in her bedroom – she recognises one as Mr Darcy, though she has no idea why he would be there. She learns that she has received a head injury and has been unconscious for 12 hours. The awful truth dawns on her that she is married to Mr Darcy. She cannot understand this, because the last she remembers is him leaving Hunsford Parsonage. She can’t remember reading his letter, or conceive of how she could have been convinced to marry him. Did he force her hand in some way?
Imagine the shock you would feel if you woke up and had lost such a large chunk of your life – you look in the mirror and see your twenty year old self is suddenly 32; your slim figure is now the body of a mother, and you are pregnant again; you have children who you neither remember nor recognise and you are married to somebody who you actively dislike and mistrust. It is the stuff of nightmares. You would feel like you no longer knew yourself.
‘She could find the ghost of her former self in the mirror. Behind the face of a matron and mother, she thought she could find traces of the maid she once was.’
Imagine too, how awful this is for Mr Darcy. He has the worry of his wife’s health, the effect this may have on his children, and the emotional distress of having his loving wife’s feelings towards you being completely changed through no fault of his own. To Elizabeth’s credit, despite her dislike of Darcy and the greater problems she is dealing with, she is compassionate enough to realise that he is also a sufferer of her accident.
‘Darcy’s disappointed feelings where his wife was concerned had already become an object of her pity, but Elizabeth was pleased for Darcy’s sake that, while she could not love him, he had four children to do so.’
Aside from mental distress and confusion, Elizabeth also has other symptoms to deal with in recovering from her injuries. She is very easily fatigued both physically and from activities requiring concentration. This means no long walks, no reading, no sewing. Jane lives at an estate only thirty miles away but is initially unable to visit as she has just had a baby. This means that Elizabeth is unable to do much of anything aside from spend time with her family of strangers and integrate into the household. Her only adult companionship is provided by Mr Darcy, who of course is not at ease, knowing what Elizabeth’s feelings must be toward him. One thing that Elizabeth is able to do is study the characters of Darcy and the children and slowly come to know them. But will knowing Darcy better mean that she is able to come to love him again? They are working through this situation side by side, but apart. Is there a way to fully bridge the gap?
This story was originally published online as a fanfiction called ‘Bruises’ which was recommended to me as a wonderful read and I was really pleased to see it published to a wider audience. I found 'Side by Side, Apart' to be a really absorbing story which I read in one sitting. It’s a story that is much more of an emotional journey than plot driven. I felt for the whole family as this was such a sad and worrying situation to find themselves in. I thought all the characters were well-drawn, most particularly Elizabeth. She is upset to find herself in her situation but I have always seen Elizabeth as very pragmatic; she isn’t a character to wail and wallow in misfortune but she will get on with whatever situation she is forced into. Here she is irrevocably bound to somebody she dislikes but she needs to get on with him civilly and she is not so unreasonable to close her eyes to his good qualities and his loving relationship with his children. She doesn’t have any particular feelings toward the children because they are strangers to her, but she is a compassionate person and is anxious not to upset them because she knows that to them she is their mother, even if she doesn’t feel like it.
I had such a lot of pity for Elizabeth in this situation, and the children too, but I almost pitied Darcy more! It would have been painful for him to have lived through Elizabeth hating him once, before they married, but to work through that and then have to go through it again must have been excruciating.
‘Elizabeth had maintained her silence on that score out of compassion, but such was in vain. Admitting she wondered whether she had ever loved him accomplished all the evils that asking him would have done.’
He is really stuck between a rock and a hard place here, because he’s Elizabeth’s only companion so she needs him so she isn’t too lonely and to fill in the gaps in her knowledge and yet, hampered by the knowledge of how he knows she feels towards him each conversation must be torturous for him, yet necessary for her and their future relationship, whether it recovers to what it was or not.
The only thing I would have liked in this story was a little more detail towards the end as I thought emotionally things moved a little quicker then than in the rest of the story. I was a little surprised that the story didn’t have an epilogue because Austenesque stories often do. It wasn’t required, but it would have been nice to have known what happened after we left the family, because the story was left on a realistic happy ending rather than a happy ending where all loose ends are tied up neatly.
I liked the author’s style very much. I thought the dialogue was nicely Austenesque. The spelling was British, which was a nice surprise, and there were only a few words which I felt were out of place. There are no sex scenes in this book.
I would recommend this book wholeheartedly. Although it’s a sad situation and an emotional read it’s realistic emotion and not made too angsty. I really enjoyed the book and when I was looking through it for the parts I’d highlighted to look for quotes to use in this review I found myself reading it again! ‘Side by Side, Apart’ gets five stars from me.
* I received an ebook of this story from the publishers as part of a blog tour.
April 27, 2016
Nice light read of how Mr Darcy remembers he and Elizabeth falling in love since she can't recall their life together due to an accident.
May 5, 2016
I have seen this story posted on AHA before under the name Bruises but I had not read it. Which I'm sort of glad I didn't because then I wouldn't have gone in to the story with fresh eyes. I have to admit that I like this story. It offers a look at the life of the Darcys eleven years after they have gotten married. It was very nice of them to give the kindness that they did to the Wickhams. Of course I would have loved to learn what has happened to the de Bourgh's and Colonel Fitzwilliam in the last eleven years. I sort of wanted to see the situation through Darcy's eyes. His internal turmoil at his wife not remembering the last eleven years must have tormented him greatly. In all this story is a fast read and should not be missed.
May 11, 2016
5 stars for the beautiful cover! Even though I read on my iPad 90% Of the time, I still enjoy looking at a beautiful cover. It seems book covers have been neglected, especially in the JAFF genre. What was written inside was just beautiful. I give it four stars because there were too many characters that weren't included. It would have been nice to see our old friends and foes. Overall an excellent read with a fresh new twist.
December 21, 2021
I was really excited to read this book as this authors other offering, What's Past Is Prologue, is amongst my all time favorite JAFFs. Also the cover is gorgeous and the title fitting and distinct. Credit must be bestowed on any JAFF that manages a title that does not contain 'Mr Darcy' in its name.
Unfortunately, I found this a bit lacking. It has an excellent premiss, a steadfast Darcy, and some pretty lines scattered thereabouts. However something with its structure & transitions rendered the story uneven, and in result a bit hollow and intangible. At times the action and dialogue seemed to skip, and the scenes would cut jarringly and jump forward in ways that robed it of a fluidity. I think much would have been solved with another draft and editing.
For the lack of much going on, except an Elizabeth who seemed uncharacteristically slow to affection and compassion, the story became long and repetitive in the conversations and Lizzy's inner thoughts. She would resolved something and I would be happy that we could move on from that conflict, thinking this would prompt some evolution in her character and new situations, only to find her resolve again abandoned and puzzling out her inner dilemma from scratch.
She seemed to go in circles. It made me wonder was she also experiencing short term memory loss as well to explain her seeming lack of follow through.
I finished this work feeling like I didn't get much out of it. I guess it would be considered a 'Slice of life,' but even in those standards it is fairly listless and by the end I found it quite depressing. I was more intrigued by the kids, especially Julia Wickham. I felt there was much unresolved about Elizabeth and her relationship with the kids, I don't think she ever was able to get back to her maternal love for them, which is again part of what I found so depressing.
It is a great concept, and knowing what Galvia is capable of & seeing traces of her mastery here, I can't help but lament what this book could have been, had it been allotted more time & organization and a stronger focus on a thematic follow through.
Unfortunately, I found this a bit lacking. It has an excellent premiss, a steadfast Darcy, and some pretty lines scattered thereabouts. However something with its structure & transitions rendered the story uneven, and in result a bit hollow and intangible. At times the action and dialogue seemed to skip, and the scenes would cut jarringly and jump forward in ways that robed it of a fluidity. I think much would have been solved with another draft and editing.
For the lack of much going on, except an Elizabeth who seemed uncharacteristically slow to affection and compassion, the story became long and repetitive in the conversations and Lizzy's inner thoughts. She would resolved something and I would be happy that we could move on from that conflict, thinking this would prompt some evolution in her character and new situations, only to find her resolve again abandoned and puzzling out her inner dilemma from scratch.
She seemed to go in circles. It made me wonder was she also experiencing short term memory loss as well to explain her seeming lack of follow through.
I finished this work feeling like I didn't get much out of it. I guess it would be considered a 'Slice of life,' but even in those standards it is fairly listless and by the end I found it quite depressing. I was more intrigued by the kids, especially Julia Wickham. I felt there was much unresolved about Elizabeth and her relationship with the kids, I don't think she ever was able to get back to her maternal love for them, which is again part of what I found so depressing.
It is a great concept, and knowing what Galvia is capable of & seeing traces of her mastery here, I can't help but lament what this book could have been, had it been allotted more time & organization and a stronger focus on a thematic follow through.
February 5, 2018
Initially, very happy to find a sequel, I was somewhat disappointed on its contents.
Elizabeth wakes up after an accident, remembering nothing of the last 11 years. The last thing she remembers is the Hunsford proposal but not the letter. Confused, she suddenly finds herself married to a man she dislikes, is the mother of several children with another one coming.
Darcy has the patience of a saint though. When he realises that Elizabeth does not remember her children or the love they shared, he treats her with love and respect. Doing everything in his power to help.
For the better part of the book, the story focus on reacquainting Elizabeth with the events we already know from P&P. I would have preferred it to evolve around the years we know nothing about as it was a bit boring to my jaded self...
I really liked the beginning, when she wakes up, as it has its funny moments and the last part, where there was something new to be had.
I wonder if there will be a sequel as the book ended a bit abruptly and there where a lot of loose ends still hanging...
Elizabeth wakes up after an accident, remembering nothing of the last 11 years. The last thing she remembers is the Hunsford proposal but not the letter. Confused, she suddenly finds herself married to a man she dislikes, is the mother of several children with another one coming.
Darcy has the patience of a saint though. When he realises that Elizabeth does not remember her children or the love they shared, he treats her with love and respect. Doing everything in his power to help.
For the better part of the book, the story focus on reacquainting Elizabeth with the events we already know from P&P. I would have preferred it to evolve around the years we know nothing about as it was a bit boring to my jaded self...
I really liked the beginning, when she wakes up, as it has its funny moments and the last part, where there was something new to be had.
I wonder if there will be a sequel as the book ended a bit abruptly and there where a lot of loose ends still hanging...
August 4, 2018
Beautifully written and faithful to the original characters
I was very, very pleased with this story. The writing was beautiful and faithful to Austen's characterization and style. It is truly a fresh storyline and could best be described (I think) as a sequel. I loved this book and will definitely be rereading it in order to savor it better.
I was very, very pleased with this story. The writing was beautiful and faithful to Austen's characterization and style. It is truly a fresh storyline and could best be described (I think) as a sequel. I loved this book and will definitely be rereading it in order to savor it better.
September 12, 2016
Formerly known as Bruises on fanfiction serial posting sites.
Any reviews that say there's a sex scene are thinking of another novel.
Any reviews that say there's a sex scene are thinking of another novel.
Read
November 3, 2017Check out my review on Diary of an Eccentric
February 25, 2025
Status: Read September 12-14, 2016
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)
My Library Notes:
Side by Side, Apart
by Ann Galvia
Kindle Edition, 178 pages
Published April 20, 2016 by Meryton Press
ASIN: B01EKUXFI4
"You see what a strange circumstance it is." She felt some fleeting relief. "You know our acquaintance has not been easy."
Elizabeth Bennet—stubborn, quick to judge but slow to revise her opinions, and entirely prejudiced against the man who had just proposed marriage at Hunsford—awakens to learn she has been in an accident. Bedridden in an unfamiliar house, she learns eleven years have passed since the last moment she can remember.
She finds herself a married woman, mother of four, an pregnant yet again. Her children are strangers, and most mystifying of all, Fitzwilliam Darcy is her husband! How could she have married a man she loathes?
Confined to the house by her injury, Mr. Darcy's company is inescapable. But is just being side by side enough to overcome their differences? What happens with Darcy, improved in manners and happily married to Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy, is faced with an obstinate, bewildered Miss Elizabeth Bennet?
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3.5)
My Library Notes:
Side by Side, Apart
by Ann Galvia
Kindle Edition, 178 pages
Published April 20, 2016 by Meryton Press
ASIN: B01EKUXFI4
"You see what a strange circumstance it is." She felt some fleeting relief. "You know our acquaintance has not been easy."
Elizabeth Bennet—stubborn, quick to judge but slow to revise her opinions, and entirely prejudiced against the man who had just proposed marriage at Hunsford—awakens to learn she has been in an accident. Bedridden in an unfamiliar house, she learns eleven years have passed since the last moment she can remember.
She finds herself a married woman, mother of four, an pregnant yet again. Her children are strangers, and most mystifying of all, Fitzwilliam Darcy is her husband! How could she have married a man she loathes?
Confined to the house by her injury, Mr. Darcy's company is inescapable. But is just being side by side enough to overcome their differences? What happens with Darcy, improved in manners and happily married to Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy, is faced with an obstinate, bewildered Miss Elizabeth Bennet?
December 6, 2024
Liked and didn't like. Loved the storyline, loved how she woke up, didn't like how everything was left unresolved.
Reread: Elizabeth was a bit useless for me.
Reread: Elizabeth was a bit useless for me.
probably-never
December 26, 2022Note to self: Do not read. No happy ending!
November 12, 2018
Great story and premise
Very good story but so sad for our dear couple. Lizzy forgets all the events she has experienced after the terrible Huntford proposal.
I feel so sad for Lizzy. She doesn’t know or believe the love both have for the other. She doesn’t remember her children, her friends, her family for that period of time
And poor Darcy. She doesn’t like or love him, again. He must be so sad for her and himself.
There is a HEA but not much memory has been recovered.
Such an original story.
I recommend this book.
Very good story but so sad for our dear couple. Lizzy forgets all the events she has experienced after the terrible Huntford proposal.
I feel so sad for Lizzy. She doesn’t know or believe the love both have for the other. She doesn’t remember her children, her friends, her family for that period of time
And poor Darcy. She doesn’t like or love him, again. He must be so sad for her and himself.
There is a HEA but not much memory has been recovered.
Such an original story.
I recommend this book.
October 15, 2022
SHUT UP ALL NAY-SAYERS! This book was awesome– short, sweet and tooth-rotting-ly wholesome.
The really strong, and relentless enforcement of gender norms was distasteful to my palate as a contemporary reader, I have to say. But what I came to realise, and what more readers of this ought to as well, is that this was the 1800s. This author did a great job at executing this time period as realistic and just normal for the people at the time. Some considerable research must have gone into crafting each event in this story, all plot points were logically conceived of; dialogue and characterisation on point and true to the essences of the characters. All source of conflict was just natural, and NOTHING felt strained. And the nuances to creating the personalities of some OCs too? Just phenomenal, I can't believe the rating is not higher!
Ms Ann Galvia, why oh why did you have to delete your AO3 handle PutItBriefly? This delightful piece of work just reminded me of how much more of your (equally as wonderful) works you've deprived the Austen fanfic community of!
The really strong, and relentless enforcement of gender norms was distasteful to my palate as a contemporary reader, I have to say. But what I came to realise, and what more readers of this ought to as well, is that this was the 1800s. This author did a great job at executing this time period as realistic and just normal for the people at the time. Some considerable research must have gone into crafting each event in this story, all plot points were logically conceived of; dialogue and characterisation on point and true to the essences of the characters. All source of conflict was just natural, and NOTHING felt strained. And the nuances to creating the personalities of some OCs too? Just phenomenal, I can't believe the rating is not higher!
Ms Ann Galvia, why oh why did you have to delete your AO3 handle PutItBriefly? This delightful piece of work just reminded me of how much more of your (equally as wonderful) works you've deprived the Austen fanfic community of!
April 25, 2016
One of the most different approach to P&P. Definitely a good book with lots of Elizabeth and Darcy moments. P and P has always been a favorite book of mine, but Ann has given me a new way of looking into what future holds for my favorite couple.
April 30, 2016
Side By Side Apart
I usually enjoy the P&p novels, and this was no exception. The only complaint I had was it was too quick a read. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading aboutthe love that Darcy and Elizabeth share.
I usually enjoy the P&p novels, and this was no exception. The only complaint I had was it was too quick a read. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading aboutthe love that Darcy and Elizabeth share.
May 28, 2016
One of the few fanfics that successfully manage to capture the time period with authenticity.
September 11, 2025
I loved it!
Warning: Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation.
Elizabeth Bennet, stubborn, quick to judge but slow to revise her opinions, and entirely prejudiced against the man who had just proposed marriage at Hunsford, awakens to learn she has been in an accident. Bedridden in an unfamiliar house, she learns eleven years have passed since the last moment she can remember. She finds herself a married woman, mother of four, and pregnant yet again. Her children are strangers, and most mystifying of all, Fitzwilliam Darcy is her husband. How could she have married a man she loathes?
Confined to the house by her injury, Mr. Darcy's company is inescapable, but is just being side by side enough to overcome their differences? What happens with Darcy, improved in manners and happily married to Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy is faced with an obstinate, bewildered Miss Elizabeth Bennet? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
Warning: Contains scenes that would scandalize the ton. Readers of a delicate constitution are advised to keep their fans and vinaigrettes close at hand.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. You will see the most beloved characters in a whole new way. This is a Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice variation.
Elizabeth Bennet, stubborn, quick to judge but slow to revise her opinions, and entirely prejudiced against the man who had just proposed marriage at Hunsford, awakens to learn she has been in an accident. Bedridden in an unfamiliar house, she learns eleven years have passed since the last moment she can remember. She finds herself a married woman, mother of four, and pregnant yet again. Her children are strangers, and most mystifying of all, Fitzwilliam Darcy is her husband. How could she have married a man she loathes?
Confined to the house by her injury, Mr. Darcy's company is inescapable, but is just being side by side enough to overcome their differences? What happens with Darcy, improved in manners and happily married to Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy is faced with an obstinate, bewildered Miss Elizabeth Bennet? So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. It’s a must read. I highly recommend to everyone.
August 2, 2018
Circumstances cause that he has to conquer her twice
After years of a happy marriage they have to start over, with several interesting complications. A very interesting plot that caught me from the first page.
After years of a happy marriage they have to start over, with several interesting complications. A very interesting plot that caught me from the first page.
dnf
March 21, 2022A Pride and Prejudice sequel where Mary Bennet has married a law clerk of her Uncle Phillips. Lost interest in reading this story at this point.
May 6, 2016
Side by Side Apart
This story is wonderful and sad at the same time. Married to Darcy for eleven years and carrying their fourth child, an unfortunate accident completely erases Elizabeth's feelings and love for Darcy and her children. Angry and confused, she remembers only the early relationship with Darcy when she thought him proud, arrogant, and full of disdain for the feelings of those below his circle. Realizing that both Darcy and their children love her and are concerned of her situation, Elizabeth begins to try to figure out the last eleven years of her life and regain what she's lost. Darcy, as always, is worried about her health and restrictions are placed on her movements and household concerns are taken over by their servants. Village duties for the three parishes the Darcys are responsible for are given to the wives of the pastors in his gift. Headaches and dizziness prohibits her from walking the many paths around Pemberley. Between her remembered dislike of Darcy and her inability to do anything, Elizabeth is easily frustrated, impertinent, and contradictory. Darcy is gentle and focused on her recovery, but she still resents being his wife. Giving her the letters she wrote before each birth triggers some memories of their happiness, and although she teased him in these letters, they certainly would not make him feel anything but sadness if she died in childbirth. Between Jane and her Aunt Gardiner, they reinforce his love and devotion to her. Slowly she sees what a gentleman he is, recognizes that he loves her beyond her imagination, and her feelings towards him changes to the realization that she loves him. Reading all the love letters he wrote while away from her side, helps trigger memories. Amongst these letters is Elizabeth's hand written copy of the Hunsford letter Darcy wrote. She did what he asked and burned the original, but kept her copy among the others. Past memories are coming back slowly, but she tells him that she loves him. Finally, the happiness is returning, and Darcy returns to their shared bed delighting them both. He tells her not to worry, because he will be instructing her on her charity and household duties as well as reacquainting her with their three children including Wickham's two in their custody. Elizabeth knows that to know herself can only come through her husband. He in return prays that her health will eventually be restored and the memory of their complete love returned to them both.
This story is wonderful and sad at the same time. Married to Darcy for eleven years and carrying their fourth child, an unfortunate accident completely erases Elizabeth's feelings and love for Darcy and her children. Angry and confused, she remembers only the early relationship with Darcy when she thought him proud, arrogant, and full of disdain for the feelings of those below his circle. Realizing that both Darcy and their children love her and are concerned of her situation, Elizabeth begins to try to figure out the last eleven years of her life and regain what she's lost. Darcy, as always, is worried about her health and restrictions are placed on her movements and household concerns are taken over by their servants. Village duties for the three parishes the Darcys are responsible for are given to the wives of the pastors in his gift. Headaches and dizziness prohibits her from walking the many paths around Pemberley. Between her remembered dislike of Darcy and her inability to do anything, Elizabeth is easily frustrated, impertinent, and contradictory. Darcy is gentle and focused on her recovery, but she still resents being his wife. Giving her the letters she wrote before each birth triggers some memories of their happiness, and although she teased him in these letters, they certainly would not make him feel anything but sadness if she died in childbirth. Between Jane and her Aunt Gardiner, they reinforce his love and devotion to her. Slowly she sees what a gentleman he is, recognizes that he loves her beyond her imagination, and her feelings towards him changes to the realization that she loves him. Reading all the love letters he wrote while away from her side, helps trigger memories. Amongst these letters is Elizabeth's hand written copy of the Hunsford letter Darcy wrote. She did what he asked and burned the original, but kept her copy among the others. Past memories are coming back slowly, but she tells him that she loves him. Finally, the happiness is returning, and Darcy returns to their shared bed delighting them both. He tells her not to worry, because he will be instructing her on her charity and household duties as well as reacquainting her with their three children including Wickham's two in their custody. Elizabeth knows that to know herself can only come through her husband. He in return prays that her health will eventually be restored and the memory of their complete love returned to them both.
September 11, 2020
A Dialogue Lover’s Treasure
This very moving variation has Elizabeth losing her memory after years of marriage to Darcy. It is a story of her coming to terms with her new circumstances—of being a wife and mother. She’s also about to become a mother again, yet has no memory of anything after the proposal at Hunsford. Darcy too, bless his broken heart, faces the possibility she may never recall their past life and love. Poor man.
Extremely wary and distrustful at first, she slowly develops a new relationship with her husband and children. Your heart really goes out to all of the Darcy family. We are given some insight into the personalities of their children. Once Darcy realizes the reality of what has happened to Elizabeth, his main objective is to protect her health and that of their unborn child. Will she ever come to love him again?
I found this to be a very emotional read. The dialogue in this book between Darcy and Elizabeth, so necessary for her mind’s recovery is outstanding. I started the book late in the evening and couldn’t put it down until sleep finally had to claim me. There is a letter to Elizabeth from Georgiana so moving, it had me in tears. Most P&P memory tropes end with a complete recovery. While this one doesn’t, I feel there was a happy ending. I wouldn’t mind seeing a sequel for this book, and would have enjoyed reading about her getting to know the children more.
I loved it and highly recommend it.
This very moving variation has Elizabeth losing her memory after years of marriage to Darcy. It is a story of her coming to terms with her new circumstances—of being a wife and mother. She’s also about to become a mother again, yet has no memory of anything after the proposal at Hunsford. Darcy too, bless his broken heart, faces the possibility she may never recall their past life and love. Poor man.
Extremely wary and distrustful at first, she slowly develops a new relationship with her husband and children. Your heart really goes out to all of the Darcy family. We are given some insight into the personalities of their children. Once Darcy realizes the reality of what has happened to Elizabeth, his main objective is to protect her health and that of their unborn child. Will she ever come to love him again?
I found this to be a very emotional read. The dialogue in this book between Darcy and Elizabeth, so necessary for her mind’s recovery is outstanding. I started the book late in the evening and couldn’t put it down until sleep finally had to claim me. There is a letter to Elizabeth from Georgiana so moving, it had me in tears. Most P&P memory tropes end with a complete recovery. While this one doesn’t, I feel there was a happy ending. I wouldn’t mind seeing a sequel for this book, and would have enjoyed reading about her getting to know the children more.
I loved it and highly recommend it.
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