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Particular Intentions
Who is this Mr. Darcy and what are his intentions?
Like much of Meryton, the Bennets of Longbourn anticipate the arrival of Mr. Bingley and his friends to Netherfield, yet an unexpected visitor is not a part of Mr. Bingley’s or Mr. Darcy’s plans. While the two gentlemen attempt to control their uninvited guest, Elizabeth Bennet arrives to tend to her ill sister. An overheard conversation, the intriguing behaviour of Mr. Darcy, and Miss Bingley’s cloying manner all fascinate her, but manage to throw her emotions into turmoil as well.
As Elizabeth becomes better acquainted with Mr. Darcy, his world unfolds and, if possible, it is more complicated than the man himself! Mysterious strangers and seducers lurk in the shadows—enough to threaten anyone’s equanimity. Elizabeth’s courage will be tested as she not only struggles to discover her own heart, but also why danger seems to surround Mr. Darcy.
Like much of Meryton, the Bennets of Longbourn anticipate the arrival of Mr. Bingley and his friends to Netherfield, yet an unexpected visitor is not a part of Mr. Bingley’s or Mr. Darcy’s plans. While the two gentlemen attempt to control their uninvited guest, Elizabeth Bennet arrives to tend to her ill sister. An overheard conversation, the intriguing behaviour of Mr. Darcy, and Miss Bingley’s cloying manner all fascinate her, but manage to throw her emotions into turmoil as well.
As Elizabeth becomes better acquainted with Mr. Darcy, his world unfolds and, if possible, it is more complicated than the man himself! Mysterious strangers and seducers lurk in the shadows—enough to threaten anyone’s equanimity. Elizabeth’s courage will be tested as she not only struggles to discover her own heart, but also why danger seems to surround Mr. Darcy.
371 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 22, 2016
111 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
L.L. Diamond
36 books183 followersAmazon best selling author L. L. Diamond is more commonly known as Leslie to her friends, and Mom to her three kids. A native of Louisiana, she has spent the majority of her life living within an hour of New Orleans until she followed her husband to the ends of the earth as a military wife. Louisiana, Mississippi, California, Texas, New Mexico, Nebraska, England, Missouri, and now Maryland have all been called home along the way.
Aside from mother and writer, Leslie considers herself a perpetual student. She has degrees in biology and studio art, but will devour any subject of interest simply for the knowledge. As an artist, her concentration is in graphic design, but watercolor is her medium of choice with one of her watercolors featured on the cover of her second book, A Matter of Chance. She is a member of the Jane Austen Society of North America. She also plays flute and piano, but much like Elizabeth Bennet, she is always in need of practice!
Aside from mother and writer, Leslie considers herself a perpetual student. She has degrees in biology and studio art, but will devour any subject of interest simply for the knowledge. As an artist, her concentration is in graphic design, but watercolor is her medium of choice with one of her watercolors featured on the cover of her second book, A Matter of Chance. She is a member of the Jane Austen Society of North America. She also plays flute and piano, but much like Elizabeth Bennet, she is always in need of practice!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
May 7, 2024
Basically we are all looking for someone who knows who we are and will break it to us gently. ~Robert Brault
Bingley is full of surprises here -- actually dominates his sister! Loved seeing a stronger, more sensible Bingley.
Darcy is proactive dealing with the Wickham situation. And Papa Bennet takes measures to combat the militia's influence in his household.
An unusual couple pairing creates problems for ODC and is the source of Elizabeth's "willful misunderstanding". Unlike the stronger men I have mentioned, Elizabeth seems weaker than in canon P&P -- the emphasis is on the negative self-image her mother has tried to instill all her life.
Georgiana has suffered in the extreme from Ramsgate and has lost her self. Elizabeth's friendship is vital to her recovery and self-knowledge.
"Rain and Retribution" will remain my favorite work from this author (if you haven't read it, you MUST!) but I can recommend this story to any JAFF readers.
Bingley is full of surprises here -- actually dominates his sister! Loved seeing a stronger, more sensible Bingley.
Darcy is proactive dealing with the Wickham situation. And Papa Bennet takes measures to combat the militia's influence in his household.
An unusual couple pairing creates problems for ODC and is the source of Elizabeth's "willful misunderstanding". Unlike the stronger men I have mentioned, Elizabeth seems weaker than in canon P&P -- the emphasis is on the negative self-image her mother has tried to instill all her life.
Georgiana has suffered in the extreme from Ramsgate and has lost her self. Elizabeth's friendship is vital to her recovery and self-knowledge.
"Rain and Retribution" will remain my favorite work from this author (if you haven't read it, you MUST!) but I can recommend this story to any JAFF readers.
August 25, 2016
After the midnight download, I read until 2:00 a.m.
Know going in that the story is not a blow-by-blow account of P&P. The author has us jump right into scenes and touches only on the main points. We might then travel forward in time to the next scene and touch on the important points the author wanted to deal with there. This did not bother me as I already knew the P&P story. I wonder if someone reading this who did not know Austen’s P&P story would have trouble keeping up?
I did not want a thorough rehash of the P&P story line. That would have been redundant and too time consuming. In fact…it kept the author from having to deal with copious sections of P&P which readers mostly skip over or speed read through because they know it by heart. Why take up the space and our time doing that when you can go straight to a scene and deal with the important points of this new story?
This writing style was more creative and intrigued me as I was not bored and was constantly on guard to see where we would go next and what would happen. Our author was so creative as she took familiar scenes and dialogue that we know and love and twisted them into something completely different and something that we have not seen before. Or it was a scene that was parallel to canon and yet, different.
Characters:
I loved Bingley as he dealt with his sister and her behavior. He actually spoke against her and tried to take her in hand. The author really pulled a BIG reveal on him. I’ve never seen it before. OMG!!! I was so shocked.
Caroline...She was the worst. Her character was outrageous. She was all over Darcy and ignored his set-downs and continued with her unwanted attentions. Bingley nor Darcy were best pleased with her behavior. She pulled something on ODC and Elizabeth was able to circumvent her machinations and overthrow her plans. It was so cute when Elizabeth walked by her and gave her a cheeky smile having just undone her scheme. Excellent! Mrs. Hurst was not much better and enabled Caroline in her behavior.
Wickham arrived with Mr. Denny and like canon, joined the militia. This Wickham was a pig and even more sinister than usual. When Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley encountered Wickham talking to the Bennet ladies in Meryton, he got off his horse and escorted them home. He requested an audience with Mr. Bennet and told him about his history with Wickham. Mr. Bennet believed Darcy and made changes within his household regarding the militia…officers were forbidden at Longbourn. Oh the wailing and gnashing of teeth. After observing his wife and daughters at the assembly and balls, Mr. Bennet finally decided to take his family in hand. OMG!!! The fur flew then.
Mrs. Bennet: there seemed to be confusion on her name…Francine and several other versions. Perhaps they were the diminutive forms of the name like Elizabeth is called Lizzy. I encountered at least three versions of her name. Her cruelty and lack of concern for Elizabeth knew no bounds. That woman—
Georgiana was a wonderful character. We the reader are given a glimpse into her emotions and feelings and she is so much deeper than we are accustomed to encountering. I felt for her as she recovered from Ramsgate and it was so touching as she struggled to be normal again. Elizabeth was a big help to her. I really enjoyed seeing the relationship grow between the soon to be sisters.
Loved Uncle and Aunt Gardiner; they were such wonderful people. As our story progressed, we delved deeper into the business dealings with Uncle Gardiner and learned of his true wealth. Didn’t see that coming. Big Surprise!!! They were such a big support for ODG as she worked toward her HEA.
Lord and Lady Fitzwilliam and their two sons were a great family support for Darcy when he needed it most. They were the voice of reason during times of hardship, scandal and gossip regarding ODC. I loved Lady Fitzwilliam, she was one sharp lady and knew how to handle the ton. Our dear Colonel was especially helpful with the capture of Darcy’s assailant.
Lady Catherine and Anne de Bourgh were minor characters. We saw little of them. Lady C made her sentiments known regarding Darcy and Anne marrying. Anne had been telling her for years her affections were elsewhere. She simply would not listen.
Mr. Collins was on hand to cause trouble and act the toady cleric for his patroness. He simply could not understand why he could not have Elizabeth. He kept insinuating himself into the picture and looking for ways for her to marry him. I enjoyed Darcy’s interactions with him.
I LOVED this version of ODC. They weren’t so dark and not so prejudice. We spent a lot of time in their heads as they figured out their emotions, feelings and considerations for each other. It was a good journey as we watched them work for their HEA. There was the problem with propriety. They needed a chaperone...big time.
Elizabeth was a little more reserved and self-conscious due to her mother’s taunts and treatment of her. For years her mother’s favorites were Jane for her beauty, and Lydia for her liveliness. She felt that Elizabeth was not worthy of her attention and was only good enough to make the connection with Mr. Collins. It was not for Elizabeth’s benefit, it was, in fact, in order to secure her future comfort, if and when Mr. Bennet died. Elizabeth did have a temper and stubborn streak that Darcy witnessed firsthand and will not forget any time soon. Her reluctance to hear him explain a situation that she completely misunderstood, nearly cost her their understanding. It was a hard, hard lesson for her to learn. I wasn’t sure she was going to get over it.
But, oh I loved how Darcy helped pull her through and into a new understanding. He let her see how she looked in his eyes and what he thought about her and not what her mother thought. I simply loved him for giving her a new paradigm in self-awareness. That was so awesome. When her stubborn pride blasted him full force, he held on and waited her out as he felt she was worth it. I loved how Mr. Bennet advised Darcy in how to deal with his favorite daughter. That was so cute.
The angst was just enough to keep the action moving especially when Darcy found out someone was following them and lurking nearby and watching the house. The drama took a deadly turn when someone made an attempt on Darcy’s life. The perpetrator was a surprise and I like how it was handled. Do not mess with the Fitzwilliam men. Not a good move. It was shocking to see how it played out.
Problem that I didn’t like: ****spoiler**** ***end spoiler***
Know going in that the story is not a blow-by-blow account of P&P. The author has us jump right into scenes and touches only on the main points. We might then travel forward in time to the next scene and touch on the important points the author wanted to deal with there. This did not bother me as I already knew the P&P story. I wonder if someone reading this who did not know Austen’s P&P story would have trouble keeping up?
I did not want a thorough rehash of the P&P story line. That would have been redundant and too time consuming. In fact…it kept the author from having to deal with copious sections of P&P which readers mostly skip over or speed read through because they know it by heart. Why take up the space and our time doing that when you can go straight to a scene and deal with the important points of this new story?
This writing style was more creative and intrigued me as I was not bored and was constantly on guard to see where we would go next and what would happen. Our author was so creative as she took familiar scenes and dialogue that we know and love and twisted them into something completely different and something that we have not seen before. Or it was a scene that was parallel to canon and yet, different.
Characters:
I loved Bingley as he dealt with his sister and her behavior. He actually spoke against her and tried to take her in hand. The author really pulled a BIG reveal on him. I’ve never seen it before. OMG!!! I was so shocked.
Caroline...She was the worst. Her character was outrageous. She was all over Darcy and ignored his set-downs and continued with her unwanted attentions. Bingley nor Darcy were best pleased with her behavior. She pulled something on ODC and Elizabeth was able to circumvent her machinations and overthrow her plans. It was so cute when Elizabeth walked by her and gave her a cheeky smile having just undone her scheme. Excellent! Mrs. Hurst was not much better and enabled Caroline in her behavior.
Wickham arrived with Mr. Denny and like canon, joined the militia. This Wickham was a pig and even more sinister than usual. When Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley encountered Wickham talking to the Bennet ladies in Meryton, he got off his horse and escorted them home. He requested an audience with Mr. Bennet and told him about his history with Wickham. Mr. Bennet believed Darcy and made changes within his household regarding the militia…officers were forbidden at Longbourn. Oh the wailing and gnashing of teeth. After observing his wife and daughters at the assembly and balls, Mr. Bennet finally decided to take his family in hand. OMG!!! The fur flew then.
Mrs. Bennet: there seemed to be confusion on her name…Francine and several other versions. Perhaps they were the diminutive forms of the name like Elizabeth is called Lizzy. I encountered at least three versions of her name. Her cruelty and lack of concern for Elizabeth knew no bounds. That woman—
Georgiana was a wonderful character. We the reader are given a glimpse into her emotions and feelings and she is so much deeper than we are accustomed to encountering. I felt for her as she recovered from Ramsgate and it was so touching as she struggled to be normal again. Elizabeth was a big help to her. I really enjoyed seeing the relationship grow between the soon to be sisters.
Loved Uncle and Aunt Gardiner; they were such wonderful people. As our story progressed, we delved deeper into the business dealings with Uncle Gardiner and learned of his true wealth. Didn’t see that coming. Big Surprise!!! They were such a big support for ODG as she worked toward her HEA.
Lord and Lady Fitzwilliam and their two sons were a great family support for Darcy when he needed it most. They were the voice of reason during times of hardship, scandal and gossip regarding ODC. I loved Lady Fitzwilliam, she was one sharp lady and knew how to handle the ton. Our dear Colonel was especially helpful with the capture of Darcy’s assailant.
Lady Catherine and Anne de Bourgh were minor characters. We saw little of them. Lady C made her sentiments known regarding Darcy and Anne marrying. Anne had been telling her for years her affections were elsewhere. She simply would not listen.
Mr. Collins was on hand to cause trouble and act the toady cleric for his patroness. He simply could not understand why he could not have Elizabeth. He kept insinuating himself into the picture and looking for ways for her to marry him. I enjoyed Darcy’s interactions with him.
I LOVED this version of ODC. They weren’t so dark and not so prejudice. We spent a lot of time in their heads as they figured out their emotions, feelings and considerations for each other. It was a good journey as we watched them work for their HEA. There was the problem with propriety. They needed a chaperone...big time.
Elizabeth was a little more reserved and self-conscious due to her mother’s taunts and treatment of her. For years her mother’s favorites were Jane for her beauty, and Lydia for her liveliness. She felt that Elizabeth was not worthy of her attention and was only good enough to make the connection with Mr. Collins. It was not for Elizabeth’s benefit, it was, in fact, in order to secure her future comfort, if and when Mr. Bennet died. Elizabeth did have a temper and stubborn streak that Darcy witnessed firsthand and will not forget any time soon. Her reluctance to hear him explain a situation that she completely misunderstood, nearly cost her their understanding. It was a hard, hard lesson for her to learn. I wasn’t sure she was going to get over it.
But, oh I loved how Darcy helped pull her through and into a new understanding. He let her see how she looked in his eyes and what he thought about her and not what her mother thought. I simply loved him for giving her a new paradigm in self-awareness. That was so awesome. When her stubborn pride blasted him full force, he held on and waited her out as he felt she was worth it. I loved how Mr. Bennet advised Darcy in how to deal with his favorite daughter. That was so cute.
The angst was just enough to keep the action moving especially when Darcy found out someone was following them and lurking nearby and watching the house. The drama took a deadly turn when someone made an attempt on Darcy’s life. The perpetrator was a surprise and I like how it was handled. Do not mess with the Fitzwilliam men. Not a good move. It was shocking to see how it played out.
Problem that I didn’t like: ****spoiler**** ***end spoiler***
September 28, 2016
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
In a real sense, there are two Pride and Prejudice variations here. The book has two parts (although they're not identified as such), each of which could stand independently without the other half of the book.
Part I occurs primarily in Hertfordshire. There is a bit less pride, as Darcy defends Elizabeth to Miss Bingley during the time the Bennet sisters are staying at Netherfield. Elizabeth unintentionally (of course) overhears their conversation; Darcy realizes that she heard them. Consequently, his guard goes down much earlier than in canon and the two have an honest clearing of the air before Elizabeth even returns to Longbourn. Wickham's influence is neutralized almost as soon as he arrives in town. Darcy warns Mr. Bennet, who actually takes steps to protect his daughters and to control Lydia and Mrs. Bennet.
Unfortunately, Elizabeth has a nasty, nasty temper, and she reacts dramatically to another accidentally overheard conversation, this one between Darcy and Bingley during the Netherfield ball. She becomes unreasonable and refuses to listen to anything Darcy has to say in his defense. Her pigheadedness is the biggest obstacle to their happiness. It isn't until she goes to London to visit her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner that the resolution to this part of the story is complete.
In Part II, Elizabeth and Darcy, once they reconcile, become happily engaged in London. The Fitzwilliams, particularly Lady Fitzwilliam, embrace and accept Elizabeth. Chaperones struggle to keep the amorous couple in check.
But there's danger lurking all around. Lady Catherine is seriously displeased with the way things have unfolded and no one is convinced that she is fully reconciled to the two pending marriages in the family. Darcy receives a note threatening vengeance. Yet another overheard conversation has ominous undertones. Someone is following Darcy. Are Elizabeth and/or Georgiana being targeted, or is it Darcy himself? This turns into a whodunnit, as Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy work to protect their loved ones and uncover the truth. When Elizabeth and Georgiana learn there is an intruder in the Darcy home, they must hide and be prepared to defend themselves until the danger has passed, with surprising results.
The revelations about the primary culprit are satisfying. However, the involvement (or lack of it) by another suspect in the recent menace is never fully explained. That character is apprehended and punished for other crimes, but this is merely reported, almost as an afterthought. It would have been more effective to incorporate this directly into the story and have it revealed BEFORE the actual instigator is caught.
The writing flows well, and there are a lot of nice creative twists. Dialogue and characterizations are excellent. I'm always pleased whenever I read that Mr. Bennet takes his family in hand. We learn in the second half of the book that he has made a specific arrangement to handle Lydia and then mostly has gone back to hiding in his bookroom. Isn't that just like Mr. Bennet! I also really admire the unusual presentation of Bingley's character and his romance. He immediately and forcefully works to control the rest of his family, especially Caroline. Since Elizabeth is visiting the Gardiners in London in Part II, Mrs. Gardiner has a significant role, and she proves to be an invaluable observer and source of wisdom. There's plenty of romance between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, and they spend a great deal of time together. Most of the time it is in company, though not always; there is a nice bit of humor in their frustration at trying to behave and their chaperones' exasperation with them. Georgiana's Ramsgate experience is revealed to be more horrific than in canon, and she must overcome the effects of this trauma on her psyche.
As I said at the beginning of this review, though, this truly is two separate stories as far as literary structure is concerned. Elizabeth's temper, which is commented upon frequently and factors so strongly in the first part of the book, is never mentioned again once she realizes how wrong she was. I suppose the implication is supposed to be that such a negative experience cured her of it, but I would still expect that within the same book there would be moments when she would struggle to control her rage. Instead, it just disappears into thin air. Caroline Bingley is almost a caricature, she's so over-the-top oblivious to Darcy's disdain for her. She is dealt with decisively before the second half of the book begins and is never heard of again. The annoying-as-usual Mr. Collins is present in Part I; he and his new wife Charlotte don't make it into Part II.
Meanwhile, although Wickham is introduced within the usual timeframe in Hertfordshire, all of the other suspects and many of the primary characters in the second part are completely absent in the first part. The second half has these undercurrents of mystery and intrigue, completely unlike the first half.
There are a few things in common. Obviously, both halves share the same P&P universe. They rely heavily on overheard conversations to drive aspects of the story. Mr. Bingley's secondary story flows as a single continuous storyline rather than split, as does the secondary story of the changes in the Bennet household.
The book's split personality makes it hard to rate. There are a lot of praiseworthy elements here, as I noted above, but it's not completely successful because it doesn't all mesh together well in ONE story.
In a real sense, there are two Pride and Prejudice variations here. The book has two parts (although they're not identified as such), each of which could stand independently without the other half of the book.
Part I occurs primarily in Hertfordshire. There is a bit less pride, as Darcy defends Elizabeth to Miss Bingley during the time the Bennet sisters are staying at Netherfield. Elizabeth unintentionally (of course) overhears their conversation; Darcy realizes that she heard them. Consequently, his guard goes down much earlier than in canon and the two have an honest clearing of the air before Elizabeth even returns to Longbourn. Wickham's influence is neutralized almost as soon as he arrives in town. Darcy warns Mr. Bennet, who actually takes steps to protect his daughters and to control Lydia and Mrs. Bennet.
Unfortunately, Elizabeth has a nasty, nasty temper, and she reacts dramatically to another accidentally overheard conversation, this one between Darcy and Bingley during the Netherfield ball. She becomes unreasonable and refuses to listen to anything Darcy has to say in his defense. Her pigheadedness is the biggest obstacle to their happiness. It isn't until she goes to London to visit her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner that the resolution to this part of the story is complete.
In Part II, Elizabeth and Darcy, once they reconcile, become happily engaged in London. The Fitzwilliams, particularly Lady Fitzwilliam, embrace and accept Elizabeth. Chaperones struggle to keep the amorous couple in check.
But there's danger lurking all around. Lady Catherine is seriously displeased with the way things have unfolded and no one is convinced that she is fully reconciled to the two pending marriages in the family. Darcy receives a note threatening vengeance. Yet another overheard conversation has ominous undertones. Someone is following Darcy. Are Elizabeth and/or Georgiana being targeted, or is it Darcy himself? This turns into a whodunnit, as Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy work to protect their loved ones and uncover the truth. When Elizabeth and Georgiana learn there is an intruder in the Darcy home, they must hide and be prepared to defend themselves until the danger has passed, with surprising results.
The revelations about the primary culprit are satisfying. However, the involvement (or lack of it) by another suspect in the recent menace is never fully explained. That character is apprehended and punished for other crimes, but this is merely reported, almost as an afterthought. It would have been more effective to incorporate this directly into the story and have it revealed BEFORE the actual instigator is caught.
The writing flows well, and there are a lot of nice creative twists. Dialogue and characterizations are excellent. I'm always pleased whenever I read that Mr. Bennet takes his family in hand. We learn in the second half of the book that he has made a specific arrangement to handle Lydia and then mostly has gone back to hiding in his bookroom. Isn't that just like Mr. Bennet! I also really admire the unusual presentation of Bingley's character and his romance. He immediately and forcefully works to control the rest of his family, especially Caroline. Since Elizabeth is visiting the Gardiners in London in Part II, Mrs. Gardiner has a significant role, and she proves to be an invaluable observer and source of wisdom. There's plenty of romance between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, and they spend a great deal of time together. Most of the time it is in company, though not always; there is a nice bit of humor in their frustration at trying to behave and their chaperones' exasperation with them. Georgiana's Ramsgate experience is revealed to be more horrific than in canon, and she must overcome the effects of this trauma on her psyche.
As I said at the beginning of this review, though, this truly is two separate stories as far as literary structure is concerned. Elizabeth's temper, which is commented upon frequently and factors so strongly in the first part of the book, is never mentioned again once she realizes how wrong she was. I suppose the implication is supposed to be that such a negative experience cured her of it, but I would still expect that within the same book there would be moments when she would struggle to control her rage. Instead, it just disappears into thin air. Caroline Bingley is almost a caricature, she's so over-the-top oblivious to Darcy's disdain for her. She is dealt with decisively before the second half of the book begins and is never heard of again. The annoying-as-usual Mr. Collins is present in Part I; he and his new wife Charlotte don't make it into Part II.
Meanwhile, although Wickham is introduced within the usual timeframe in Hertfordshire, all of the other suspects and many of the primary characters in the second part are completely absent in the first part. The second half has these undercurrents of mystery and intrigue, completely unlike the first half.
There are a few things in common. Obviously, both halves share the same P&P universe. They rely heavily on overheard conversations to drive aspects of the story. Mr. Bingley's secondary story flows as a single continuous storyline rather than split, as does the secondary story of the changes in the Bennet household.
The book's split personality makes it hard to rate. There are a lot of praiseworthy elements here, as I noted above, but it's not completely successful because it doesn't all mesh together well in ONE story.
February 9, 2017
Eavesdropping and Threats!
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins shortly before Elizabeth’s arrival at Netherfield to tend Jane
SYNOPSIS:
Quite by accident, Elizabeth overhears a discussion at Netherfield where Miss Bingley disparages her family and their low connections. A similar conversation to the one in Chapter 8 of Pride and Prejudice. But instead of letting Caroline’s diatribe go unchecked, Mr. Darcy decides to defend the Bennets and forcefully reminds Caroline of her own inferiority in society. Mr. Darcy’s strong defense does much to change Elizabeth’s opinion of him, even if he did say she was “tolerable.” But despite there being less pride and prejudice for Darcy and Elizabeth to overcome, it seems that there are several acquaintances and strangers who wish to separate them…or do them harm!
WHAT I LOVED:
- Bravo, Mr. Bingley!: From the very first chapter in this variation, we learn that Mr. Bingley does not tolerate his sister Caroline’s manipulations and has taken actions to separate himself from her. As well as protect his dear friend, Mr. Darcy. I really take pleasure in seeing a Mr. Bingley who does not let his evil sister walk all over him! I like that he attempts to keep her in check – because she is not only damaging her own reputation with her superiority and machinations, but his as well. Well done, Mr. Bingley!
- Intriguing Twists: In addition to the alterations between Mr. Bingley and his sister, there were a few other twists with our beloved Pride and Prejudice characters. One twist, which was a little sad, had to do with Georgiana. (However, it was handled very gently and sympathetically.) Another twist was with the Gardiners. (I really liked that one!) They are featured more prominently in this tale and I’m very happy for their situation! The last twist is also about Mr. Bingley. And while I’m inclined to like it, I’m afraid I didn’t find this relationship as plausible. (Sorry to be cryptic, but I don’t want to give any spoilers!)
- Dreamy Mr. Darcy: Oh be still my heart! I love seeing an ardent Mr. Darcy! I loved witnessing Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s frank conversations with each other. He is quite gentlemanly with her and a good deal less haughty! I enjoyed seeing how honorable Mr. Darcy was towards the Bennet family and my heart went out to him when he was in anguish! Ms. Diamond always does a wonderful job of portraying the banter, chemistry, and attraction between Darcy and Elizabeth.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Split Conflicts: It kind of felt like there wasn’t a central conflict arc throughout the story. There were several conflicts introduced, but we didn’t really see one become the main focus and tie the whole story together. I definitely don’t mind a story having multiple conflicts (I love me some angst!). But it kind of felt like the conflicts were secondary to the plot, and perhaps spread a little too thin. I’ve seen how Ms. Diamond can create some delicious drama and tension with her antagonists and creative obstacles, but this book didn’t have as much of that.
- Resolutions: I must admit some of the resolutions didn’t fully satisfy. While there is a happily-ever-after the road to get there accelerated quickly at the end, and some of the other conclusions felt a bit rushed too. Also, Elizabeth’s near mistake at the end felt like it came out of nowhere and didn’t really seem to belong.
NOTE: Some intimate allusions and brief romantic scenes towards the end. (not too many or too graphic)
CONCLUSION:
While Particular Intentions isn’t my favorite release by L.L. Diamond, I still greatly enjoyed my time reading it! I love the plausible premises Ms. Diamond dreams up, how she isn’t afraid to make some creative alterations with Jane Austen’s characters, and her wonderfully romantic portrayals of Mr. Darcy!! I cannot wait to see what she writes next!
Austenesque Reviews
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins shortly before Elizabeth’s arrival at Netherfield to tend Jane
SYNOPSIS:
Quite by accident, Elizabeth overhears a discussion at Netherfield where Miss Bingley disparages her family and their low connections. A similar conversation to the one in Chapter 8 of Pride and Prejudice. But instead of letting Caroline’s diatribe go unchecked, Mr. Darcy decides to defend the Bennets and forcefully reminds Caroline of her own inferiority in society. Mr. Darcy’s strong defense does much to change Elizabeth’s opinion of him, even if he did say she was “tolerable.” But despite there being less pride and prejudice for Darcy and Elizabeth to overcome, it seems that there are several acquaintances and strangers who wish to separate them…or do them harm!
WHAT I LOVED:
- Bravo, Mr. Bingley!: From the very first chapter in this variation, we learn that Mr. Bingley does not tolerate his sister Caroline’s manipulations and has taken actions to separate himself from her. As well as protect his dear friend, Mr. Darcy. I really take pleasure in seeing a Mr. Bingley who does not let his evil sister walk all over him! I like that he attempts to keep her in check – because she is not only damaging her own reputation with her superiority and machinations, but his as well. Well done, Mr. Bingley!
- Intriguing Twists: In addition to the alterations between Mr. Bingley and his sister, there were a few other twists with our beloved Pride and Prejudice characters. One twist, which was a little sad, had to do with Georgiana. (However, it was handled very gently and sympathetically.) Another twist was with the Gardiners. (I really liked that one!) They are featured more prominently in this tale and I’m very happy for their situation! The last twist is also about Mr. Bingley. And while I’m inclined to like it, I’m afraid I didn’t find this relationship as plausible. (Sorry to be cryptic, but I don’t want to give any spoilers!)
- Dreamy Mr. Darcy: Oh be still my heart! I love seeing an ardent Mr. Darcy! I loved witnessing Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s frank conversations with each other. He is quite gentlemanly with her and a good deal less haughty! I enjoyed seeing how honorable Mr. Darcy was towards the Bennet family and my heart went out to him when he was in anguish! Ms. Diamond always does a wonderful job of portraying the banter, chemistry, and attraction between Darcy and Elizabeth.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Split Conflicts: It kind of felt like there wasn’t a central conflict arc throughout the story. There were several conflicts introduced, but we didn’t really see one become the main focus and tie the whole story together. I definitely don’t mind a story having multiple conflicts (I love me some angst!). But it kind of felt like the conflicts were secondary to the plot, and perhaps spread a little too thin. I’ve seen how Ms. Diamond can create some delicious drama and tension with her antagonists and creative obstacles, but this book didn’t have as much of that.
- Resolutions: I must admit some of the resolutions didn’t fully satisfy. While there is a happily-ever-after the road to get there accelerated quickly at the end, and some of the other conclusions felt a bit rushed too. Also, Elizabeth’s near mistake at the end felt like it came out of nowhere and didn’t really seem to belong.
NOTE: Some intimate allusions and brief romantic scenes towards the end. (not too many or too graphic)
CONCLUSION:
While Particular Intentions isn’t my favorite release by L.L. Diamond, I still greatly enjoyed my time reading it! I love the plausible premises Ms. Diamond dreams up, how she isn’t afraid to make some creative alterations with Jane Austen’s characters, and her wonderfully romantic portrayals of Mr. Darcy!! I cannot wait to see what she writes next!
Austenesque Reviews
April 17, 2022
Nice read. Enjoyed the reading and the characters and story was well balanced.
2022 Audio book upped this a star. The ending seemed a little superfluous, but over all enjoyable
2022 Audio book upped this a star. The ending seemed a little superfluous, but over all enjoyable
November 26, 2017
I was super excited to read this new book by LL Diamond. Written well as you would expect but can I say it was very dull? Everyone pretty much got along, not much angst, and the only lasting drama came from a new character with no backstory that would make me care in any way. Wickham's drama takes place off-screen as it were. All too neat and tidy. No one to root for, not much here. But if you like a nice E & D romance with little else to recommend it, this is probably your book. I am hoping that when I read it in future that my opinion will change.
Second reading: Bumped it up to 5 stars. I agree that not much happens but it was sweetly written and Mr B has his moments. Loved the library scene.
Third reading: Still liked it a lot. Nothing stands out but a well-written romance that is super enjoyable to read.
Second reading: Bumped it up to 5 stars. I agree that not much happens but it was sweetly written and Mr B has his moments. Loved the library scene.
Third reading: Still liked it a lot. Nothing stands out but a well-written romance that is super enjoyable to read.
July 6, 2024
Wonderful Read
I loved this non-canon variation. I enjoyed a story that had ODC fall in love without the months of misunderstanding and Wickham poisoning Elizabeth’s mind. There is no Hunsford and the horrible proposal. Bingley’s role in the story was a pleasant surprise, as well as Anne’s. Elizabeth learns some lessons. The dialogue was very good throughout. If I have any criticism, it would be it ended too abruptly. Do read it.
July 14-15, 2021 - Audiobook
I gave the audiobook performance four stars. It’s good, but slow, so I had to adjust the speed to faster. Leena Emsley read very well, but I didn’t enjoy her voices for the male characters, especially those of Bingley and Mr. Bennet.
I loved this non-canon variation. I enjoyed a story that had ODC fall in love without the months of misunderstanding and Wickham poisoning Elizabeth’s mind. There is no Hunsford and the horrible proposal. Bingley’s role in the story was a pleasant surprise, as well as Anne’s. Elizabeth learns some lessons. The dialogue was very good throughout. If I have any criticism, it would be it ended too abruptly. Do read it.
July 14-15, 2021 - Audiobook
I gave the audiobook performance four stars. It’s good, but slow, so I had to adjust the speed to faster. Leena Emsley read very well, but I didn’t enjoy her voices for the male characters, especially those of Bingley and Mr. Bennet.
October 1, 2017
My, my...there were some delightful new twists to this variation of Pride & Prejudice which I quite enjoyed! I found Darcy still taciturn and reserved but due to deeper concerns over Georgiana, he is more vulnerable. He also was willing to protect the Bennet family and Meryton from the despicable Wickham! Elizabeth in this version has less confidence in the beginning but with the influence of the Gardiners, once she journeys to London, helps to change that. I found her temper and stubbornness a bit surprising but then again she is 'an obstinate headstrong girl' as Lady Catherine likes to describe her! Bingley is more forceful and decisive which is always a delight and Jane is as she always was. Mr. Bennet finally took the time to come out of his study to deal with his wife and younger daughters and the histrionics of Lydia and Mrs. Bennet were painful! I could clearly picture/hear the cacophony of their voices! Caroline Bingley was as dense and spiteful as ever despite the number of set downs she had! I so loved how Elizabeth thwarted her scheme at Netherfield!
Enjoyed it again the second time!!!
I found the story well developed and the sinister plot lines well executed...though Wickham's did surprise me for not being as aggressive as I thought it would be. All in all, this was another gem from Ms. Diamond!
Enjoyed it again the second time!!!
I found the story well developed and the sinister plot lines well executed...though Wickham's did surprise me for not being as aggressive as I thought it would be. All in all, this was another gem from Ms. Diamond!
January 24, 2018
I loved this book for a number of reasons.
It is captivating with a good plot but it is not a high level of angst.
There is a lot of interaction between ODC and some lovely tender moments aswell.
The villains get what they deserve.
Loved both Lissy and Darcy. Caroline is meaner, mr Bennet takes charge and some new interesting caracters are added.
Will definitively reread this and recommend it heartily
It is captivating with a good plot but it is not a high level of angst.
There is a lot of interaction between ODC and some lovely tender moments aswell.
The villains get what they deserve.
Loved both Lissy and Darcy. Caroline is meaner, mr Bennet takes charge and some new interesting caracters are added.
Will definitively reread this and recommend it heartily
January 30, 2021
A lovely fairly relaxing variation. Lizzy is witty, impish and lively and Darcy is devoted, passionate and everything proper and right, of course after some Pride and Prejudice subsides!
The beginning is more charming than the end where the plot turns to the outlandish, but overall I found it very agreeable.
Synopsis:
Caroline Bingley has been cut from Charles after a failed compromise of Darcy
Still she shows up to Netherfield in time for the original timeline to make sense and fit with what happens in P&P, you wouldn't notice the difference if it were not for the insight to Darcy's POV
Have no qualms, the author wont bore you by repeating scenes.
Because of this Caroline is out for vengeance with Darcy and knowing she had no shot and that Lizzy dislikes him tries to force a compromise by locking them both in the Netherfield library, but Lizzy had overheard Darcy defending her relations a night previous and didn't have as much prejudice as a result, regardless still wasn't up to be forced into a marriage
She makes it clear in about five minutes with Darcy that,
1. Jane and her aren't mercenary
2.She has no designs on Darcy or taking advantage of the compromise that she rather climb out the window
3. She demonstrates she is no ordinary lady, climbing out unto a tree. She is vivacious and Darcy is in even more danger of being tempted
The next day Darcy offers his company on a walk with her in Netherfield garden they become friendly and thus pride and prejudice is swiftly eradicated from them both.
Darcy when he spots her meeting Wickham in Meryton, immediately escorts her and her sisters from Wickham and talks to Mr Bennet right away to warn him, and Mr Bennet starts taking on some responsibility for his family
Darcy begins to meet on walks with Lizzy halfway between Netherfield and Longbourne for a week and he realizes he has to marry her
He then applies to her and Mr Bennet for a courtship and all is well until Lizzy overhears Darcy at the Netherfield ball dissuade Bingley from Jane and misunderstanding ensues.
Lizzy forcefully attempts to break up with Darcy and he is obstinately opposed.
What I enjoyed:
-Right away its starts delightfully with Charles letting Caroline have it! Go Bingley!
-Darcy and Charles bromance!
-Darcy was steady and romantic
-Lizzy being stubborn showed she has her faults makes her human
-The story fits very plausibly with the original especially the early scenes
-
-Dialogue engaging
-
What Displeased Me:
-A bit dramatic with stabbings and shootings, not the most plausible scenarios
-Courtship too smooth
-Little conflict
-
Conclusion:
I enjoyed it very much, it was a relaxing, blissful and romantic read. Perchance a bit forgettable for the plot later, but the beginning and the Netherfield courtship is well worth the reread.
I've always enjoyed L.L. Diamond, I've read Undoing and An Unwavering Trust and loved them both.
She always manage to write a vivacious and charming Lizzy, and a romantic and passionate Darcy while keeping them both on Austen character. That is the rarest ability amongst JAFF authors to capture the tone and personalities of Darcy but especially a witty Lizzy in their thoughts and dialogue.
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?Yes
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?Yes
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? Yes
The beginning is more charming than the end where the plot turns to the outlandish, but overall I found it very agreeable.
Synopsis:
Caroline Bingley has been cut from Charles after a failed compromise of Darcy
Still she shows up to Netherfield in time for the original timeline to make sense and fit with what happens in P&P, you wouldn't notice the difference if it were not for the insight to Darcy's POV
Have no qualms, the author wont bore you by repeating scenes.
Because of this Caroline is out for vengeance with Darcy and knowing she had no shot and that Lizzy dislikes him tries to force a compromise by locking them both in the Netherfield library, but Lizzy had overheard Darcy defending her relations a night previous and didn't have as much prejudice as a result, regardless still wasn't up to be forced into a marriage
She makes it clear in about five minutes with Darcy that,
1. Jane and her aren't mercenary
2.She has no designs on Darcy or taking advantage of the compromise that she rather climb out the window
3. She demonstrates she is no ordinary lady, climbing out unto a tree. She is vivacious and Darcy is in even more danger of being tempted
The next day Darcy offers his company on a walk with her in Netherfield garden they become friendly and thus pride and prejudice is swiftly eradicated from them both.
Darcy when he spots her meeting Wickham in Meryton, immediately escorts her and her sisters from Wickham and talks to Mr Bennet right away to warn him, and Mr Bennet starts taking on some responsibility for his family
Darcy begins to meet on walks with Lizzy halfway between Netherfield and Longbourne for a week and he realizes he has to marry her
What a nightmare! How did you court a lady? He had run from the women pursuing him for so long, he now had no idea how to woo one.
He then applies to her and Mr Bennet for a courtship and all is well until Lizzy overhears Darcy at the Netherfield ball dissuade Bingley from Jane and misunderstanding ensues.
Lizzy forcefully attempts to break up with Darcy and he is obstinately opposed.
“I do not accept that you have released me from our courtship, as I have no such wish! Instead, I shall await your acceptance of my hand with as much patience as I can muster, but I shall not surrender my hopes and desires over a misunderstanding.”
What I enjoyed:
-Right away its starts delightfully with Charles letting Caroline have it! Go Bingley!
-Darcy and Charles bromance!
-Darcy was steady and romantic
-Lizzy being stubborn showed she has her faults makes her human
-The story fits very plausibly with the original especially the early scenes
-
-Dialogue engaging
-
What Displeased Me:
-A bit dramatic with stabbings and shootings, not the most plausible scenarios
-Courtship too smooth
-Little conflict
-
Conclusion:
I enjoyed it very much, it was a relaxing, blissful and romantic read. Perchance a bit forgettable for the plot later, but the beginning and the Netherfield courtship is well worth the reread.
I've always enjoyed L.L. Diamond, I've read Undoing and An Unwavering Trust and loved them both.
She always manage to write a vivacious and charming Lizzy, and a romantic and passionate Darcy while keeping them both on Austen character. That is the rarest ability amongst JAFF authors to capture the tone and personalities of Darcy but especially a witty Lizzy in their thoughts and dialogue.
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?Yes
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?Yes
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? Yes
July 4, 2022
Loved it!
Loosely following canon this variation is engaging and romantic. I really liked the plot and the way it is written.
Loosely following canon this variation is engaging and romantic. I really liked the plot and the way it is written.
January 28, 2025
I've read and listened to this book several times, but haven't reviewed it yet. The audio book is great. Good production value. Lovely narrator.
I've always been this way so I cannot blame it on my age, but the truth is I haven't read or listened to this story for going on three years so I had forgotten most of it. There have been a few hundreds of JAFF reads since then so I can't feel too bad, in fact lucky me...almost like reading a new story. However I did remember each scenario as it came up. The entire listen was making my memory go: "Oh yeah, THAT scene..." over and over. Particular Intentions has so many scenes that at a later date I would be asking myself "what book was this or that scene from?"
This is an early pairing with ODC plot, it goes so swimmingly-and for enough time for you to wonder; 'okay, when is the other shoe going to drop?' Who's it going to be, Lydia? Wickham? Caroline? What!!! Bingley!!!??? That was a very unique situation for him and who he is betrothed to (without any mention of it while he's entertaining neighbors and calling on the Bennets being his happy-all-the-time self.) We later find out why he doesn't share this information. Still, it's this whole situation that causes the big rotten misunderstanding between ODC. On the other hand, we LOVE this Bingley for how he handles Caroline. Go Bing! But good grief, the woman is a slow learner. I loved the set down she got later in the story, and who from. Woo!
With Papa's help, the Gardiner's help, and the help of a much different 'The Letter' Lizzy sees the mistake she made and feels the horrible errors of her accusations. But omg Darcy our Hero. So romantic, so committed, and steady. Gush. So then the official courtship and wait for a date to be set and waiting for another couple to wed first. And then another shoe drops. Threatening letter from Wickham, and a mystery man following the Darcy's.
I loved the Matlocks in this story, absolutely loved Georgiana, and Georgie and Lizzy's new friendship. In this story Georgie needs all the TLC Elizabeth can offer. The Gardiners are always favorites of mine and I love it when they get to play a big role, and Lizzy needed Aunt Gardiner's support and TLC herself due to a lifetime of being told she was third best and couldn't possibly merit a brilliant match. Oh I really wanted to slap this Mrs. Bennet. I wanted to turn Lydia over my knee and whale on her a few (fifteen at least) times and I'm not into corporal punishment.
My only complaints are few; I thought it was a tad bit too long. And I was left with one very insignificant question. Why didn't Lizzy tell her father and then Darcy later how Lieutenant Denny had accosted her at the Netherfield ball?
My favorite reread of L.L. Diamond's is Rain and Retribution and when I want to read her I will go back to that one first, or Unwavering Trust and now a couple of her newer publications before this series but I definitely recommend Particular Intentions and I'm off to listen to Particular Attachments.
I've always been this way so I cannot blame it on my age, but the truth is I haven't read or listened to this story for going on three years so I had forgotten most of it. There have been a few hundreds of JAFF reads since then so I can't feel too bad, in fact lucky me...almost like reading a new story. However I did remember each scenario as it came up. The entire listen was making my memory go: "Oh yeah, THAT scene..." over and over. Particular Intentions has so many scenes that at a later date I would be asking myself "what book was this or that scene from?"
This is an early pairing with ODC plot, it goes so swimmingly-and for enough time for you to wonder; 'okay, when is the other shoe going to drop?' Who's it going to be, Lydia? Wickham? Caroline? What!!! Bingley!!!??? That was a very unique situation for him and who he is betrothed to (without any mention of it while he's entertaining neighbors and calling on the Bennets being his happy-all-the-time self.) We later find out why he doesn't share this information. Still, it's this whole situation that causes the big rotten misunderstanding between ODC. On the other hand, we LOVE this Bingley for how he handles Caroline. Go Bing! But good grief, the woman is a slow learner. I loved the set down she got later in the story, and who from. Woo!
With Papa's help, the Gardiner's help, and the help of a much different 'The Letter' Lizzy sees the mistake she made and feels the horrible errors of her accusations. But omg Darcy our Hero. So romantic, so committed, and steady. Gush. So then the official courtship and wait for a date to be set and waiting for another couple to wed first. And then another shoe drops. Threatening letter from Wickham, and a mystery man following the Darcy's.
I loved the Matlocks in this story, absolutely loved Georgiana, and Georgie and Lizzy's new friendship. In this story Georgie needs all the TLC Elizabeth can offer. The Gardiners are always favorites of mine and I love it when they get to play a big role, and Lizzy needed Aunt Gardiner's support and TLC herself due to a lifetime of being told she was third best and couldn't possibly merit a brilliant match. Oh I really wanted to slap this Mrs. Bennet. I wanted to turn Lydia over my knee and whale on her a few (fifteen at least) times and I'm not into corporal punishment.
My only complaints are few; I thought it was a tad bit too long. And I was left with one very insignificant question. Why didn't Lizzy tell her father and then Darcy later how Lieutenant Denny had accosted her at the Netherfield ball?
My favorite reread of L.L. Diamond's is Rain and Retribution and when I want to read her I will go back to that one first, or Unwavering Trust and now a couple of her newer publications before this series but I definitely recommend Particular Intentions and I'm off to listen to Particular Attachments.
August 21, 2020
Of the three L.L. Diamond books I have read so far, this one is my least favorite. There are some beautiful moments between ODC, but the overall plot arc is weak. I enjoy a new take on Bingley in JAFF, but his role in Elizabeth and Darcy's willful misunderstanding is a stetch. Elizabeth's refusal to listen to Darcy is just ludicrous and her self-doubt rings false compared to the self-assurance in Austen's original character. I enjoyed parts of this book, but overall, the plot relied too much on characters' pointed stupidity rather than genuine misunderstandings.
November 29, 2020
Particular Intentions
Really delightful story, this story should be for everyone. It's another treat from L.L. Diamond who writing skills are tops and she always brings something different and unique into the storyline. I really loved how Charles Bingley dealt with Caroline, right at the beginning.
Really delightful story, this story should be for everyone. It's another treat from L.L. Diamond who writing skills are tops and she always brings something different and unique into the storyline. I really loved how Charles Bingley dealt with Caroline, right at the beginning.
November 27, 2017
4.5 stars... I loved that the characters remained true to the original even though the storyline took a different path. I wasn't thrilled with the Jane and Georgiana path but all in all an excellent P&P variation.
October 23, 2016
It was just OK
I liked the relationship between E and D. They were in company often, which made for a pleasant read. Unfortunately , there was no real conflict, which made the book way too long and boring from half way to the end.
I liked the relationship between E and D. They were in company often, which made for a pleasant read. Unfortunately , there was no real conflict, which made the book way too long and boring from half way to the end.
November 1, 2025
3.5⭐️ rounded up. It was a fun read, Darcy was really charming and he and Elizabeth had great chemistry
May 31, 2020
Disappointing
I admit that I am basing this book on the previous two L.L. Diamond books that I just read ('Rain and Retribution' and 'Unwavering Trust'.) Unfortunately, Particular Intentions couldn't match what I was hoping for. I have to agree with another reviewer, A. Rogers, I found myself constantly putting the book down and doing something else. With the other two books, Darcy and Elizabeth relationship developed on the pages, they remained the main focus. There was too much going on and it didn't flow and I found myself skimming through some parts. The beginning caught my interest with the "compromise", I thought it was a fun way to start the story and imagined that scene would be the foundation to Elizabeth's character, as well as how Darcy comes appreciate Elizabeth. Instead, it seemed as if it was an idea that was set aside for future use and the author decided to stick that scene in the book.
I agree with most reviewers concerning Elizabeth's immature ways. I've read enough P&P variations to know that if you don't get Elizabeth character right (likable), then you are fighting an uphill battle. I also didn't understand why the author wanted to make Darcy carrying Elizabeth to the carriage and sitting her in his lap a scandal. They were already engaged and it was announced in the papers, Elizabeth was unconscious, Darcy was the only male at the time to ride in the carriage with four other women, of course he's going to hold is unconscious intended and try to speak to her and make sure she's okay. So, bottom line, there was a disconnect with Darcy and Elizabeth, as well as with the storyline which is why I couldn't truly get into it, it seemed like some of the typical P&P books that I have come across. I guess I was hoping for that same formula and creativity that I seen in the previous two books. I'm still willing to give her next book a try.
I admit that I am basing this book on the previous two L.L. Diamond books that I just read ('Rain and Retribution' and 'Unwavering Trust'.) Unfortunately, Particular Intentions couldn't match what I was hoping for. I have to agree with another reviewer, A. Rogers, I found myself constantly putting the book down and doing something else. With the other two books, Darcy and Elizabeth relationship developed on the pages, they remained the main focus. There was too much going on and it didn't flow and I found myself skimming through some parts. The beginning caught my interest with the "compromise", I thought it was a fun way to start the story and imagined that scene would be the foundation to Elizabeth's character, as well as how Darcy comes appreciate Elizabeth. Instead, it seemed as if it was an idea that was set aside for future use and the author decided to stick that scene in the book.
I agree with most reviewers concerning Elizabeth's immature ways. I've read enough P&P variations to know that if you don't get Elizabeth character right (likable), then you are fighting an uphill battle. I also didn't understand why the author wanted to make Darcy carrying Elizabeth to the carriage and sitting her in his lap a scandal. They were already engaged and it was announced in the papers, Elizabeth was unconscious, Darcy was the only male at the time to ride in the carriage with four other women, of course he's going to hold is unconscious intended and try to speak to her and make sure she's okay. So, bottom line, there was a disconnect with Darcy and Elizabeth, as well as with the storyline which is why I couldn't truly get into it, it seemed like some of the typical P&P books that I have come across. I guess I was hoping for that same formula and creativity that I seen in the previous two books. I'm still willing to give her next book a try.
December 18, 2019
I enjoy variations but this was just too much. Anne is completely different from the original and the new "enemy" is no just no. I only read it again because while reviewing my account to my kindle content I couldn't remember this one and looked interesting. Okay at first but again no just no.
August 31, 2016
Great read by Leslie Diamond
What a breath of fresh air to have Darcy and Lizzy not at odds with one another FOREVER! The unfortunate and fortunate events in the book give the reader quite the adventure!
What a breath of fresh air to have Darcy and Lizzy not at odds with one another FOREVER! The unfortunate and fortunate events in the book give the reader quite the adventure!
May 18, 2023
Bingley is already mad at Caroline by the time he leases Netherfield. Darcy and Elizabeth start courting sooner and she is never fooled by Wickham's lies. They have a disagreement about Bingley, however, and she attempts to put him off. When they meet again in London they get engaged about halfway down the book, and in the following, they try to sneak some alone time, and wonder who has it in for them. Somebody is having them followed. But is it lady Catherine? Wickham? One of Darcy's disappointed admirers?
I enjoyed the story a lot in the general way. The happy ending is a bit longer than it needs to be as there are so many scenes of them trying to evade the chaperones and the intruder incident seemed unnecessary.
The argument about Bingley seemed rather unnecessary as well, as they exchanged lots of words after Elizabeth overheard something. Darcy keeps saying he could explain and please won't she listen to him. If he'd shut up about this pointless pleading and used that time to tell her why he had that conversation it would have taken him about two seconds to say and she'd surely have been curious enough to ask about the rest.
Steam level: It is well established that they're amorous but mostly without excessive anatomical detail.
Content: violent attacks, and Georgiana's ordeal was more triggering than the canonical elopement attempt
I enjoyed the story a lot in the general way. The happy ending is a bit longer than it needs to be as there are so many scenes of them trying to evade the chaperones and the intruder incident seemed unnecessary.
The argument about Bingley seemed rather unnecessary as well, as they exchanged lots of words after Elizabeth overheard something. Darcy keeps saying he could explain and please won't she listen to him. If he'd shut up about this pointless pleading and used that time to tell her why he had that conversation it would have taken him about two seconds to say and she'd surely have been curious enough to ask about the rest.
Steam level: It is well established that they're amorous but mostly without excessive anatomical detail.
Content: violent attacks, and Georgiana's ordeal was more triggering than the canonical elopement attempt
August 31, 2017
Bymaryannon August 31, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Well written novel with some surprises like who Bingley marries and how he controls Caroline. Darcy was the stronger character rather than Lizzy. Naturally everyone loves Richard Fitzwilliam and his antics. I also loved the way Ms. Diamond portrayed Mr. Bennet and how he controlled Lydia and Mrs. Bennet in the end of the novel. Also who cannot love to hate Mrs. Bennet with her actions!
Wickham was as he always was and that is big trouble however he wasn't the only one causing trouble for Darcy and Elizabeth. This was the part of the novel that seemed to drag for me as I read. However, this is just my opinion. I think this novel would have received 5 stars otherwise. I love her other novels but this one was great until the involvement with Lady Althea got boring. This is only the first time I was disappointed in any of her novels. However, it is still an excellent read and perhaps I will re-read it and have a different opinion.
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Well written novel with some surprises like who Bingley marries and how he controls Caroline. Darcy was the stronger character rather than Lizzy. Naturally everyone loves Richard Fitzwilliam and his antics. I also loved the way Ms. Diamond portrayed Mr. Bennet and how he controlled Lydia and Mrs. Bennet in the end of the novel. Also who cannot love to hate Mrs. Bennet with her actions!
Wickham was as he always was and that is big trouble however he wasn't the only one causing trouble for Darcy and Elizabeth. This was the part of the novel that seemed to drag for me as I read. However, this is just my opinion. I think this novel would have received 5 stars otherwise. I love her other novels but this one was great until the involvement with Lady Althea got boring. This is only the first time I was disappointed in any of her novels. However, it is still an excellent read and perhaps I will re-read it and have a different opinion.
February 17, 2019
Some of my favorite JAFF stories are those where Darcy and Elizabeth get over their challenges early enough in the book that we readers get to enjoy a bit of time of them being together. This book fits that genre nicely. There's enough angst in the early chapters to be interesting, but they realize how much they love each other early enough in the book that we get to enjoy them over coming challenges together (instead of overcoming the challenge of being together). One of the things I like best about this Darcy is how early on he gets over himself and how much time we get to see him intentionally courting Lizzy. It's an endearing and lovely read.
May 29, 2020
Needs editing
Language usage is poor such that one is flipping back and forth to understand what is going on. References are made that make no sense: with misplaced pronouns and nouns and...just needs a good editor. Also, I don't see how rescuing a lady who had fainted in public creates a compromising event, especially when plenty of others are around. And: Where are Elizabeth's gloves? How can her nails keep digging into her palms when she should have gloves on? How was a ring put on her finger when the gloves she should have on were not removed? And if the gloves were removed, we should have been shown.
Language usage is poor such that one is flipping back and forth to understand what is going on. References are made that make no sense: with misplaced pronouns and nouns and...just needs a good editor. Also, I don't see how rescuing a lady who had fainted in public creates a compromising event, especially when plenty of others are around. And: Where are Elizabeth's gloves? How can her nails keep digging into her palms when she should have gloves on? How was a ring put on her finger when the gloves she should have on were not removed? And if the gloves were removed, we should have been shown.
June 2, 2019
In this P&P variation Bingley and Darcy have arrived without Caroline Bingley and the Hursts but they soon arrive as uninvited guests. Jane is soon to be ill while at Netherfield and Elizabeth attends her. What of the relationship between Jane and Bingley, though Darcy and Elizabeth become close, but of course their relationship never runs smoothly. Thankfully there is some intrigue and mystery in this story to make it interesting.
A well-written story.
A well-written story.
April 22, 2020
I enjoyed the path this story took. It was an enjoyable read. Lizzy was not strong and decisive when faced with any kind of traumatic situation, which gave Mr. Darcy a chance to rescue her several times. When she was unreasonable and angry, however, she was quite decisive! I do like Darcy when he has trouble keeping his hands off Lizzy, and these situations provided a lot of humor in the book. Overall, it was a fun way to indulge in some P&P variation.
abandoned
June 15, 2025DNF at 18%
Very ooc Darcy.. Here he is telling his personal affairs to everyone, being way too open etc. At the point when i stopped reading, Darcy offered to Elizabeth to pretend to have interest in her just so that her mom will stop pushing Mr. Collins on her and Elizabeth even agrees.. its not as though the situation is dire and Elizabeth needs someone to rescue her.
Very ooc Darcy.. Here he is telling his personal affairs to everyone, being way too open etc. At the point when i stopped reading, Darcy offered to Elizabeth to pretend to have interest in her just so that her mom will stop pushing Mr. Collins on her and Elizabeth even agrees.. its not as though the situation is dire and Elizabeth needs someone to rescue her.
January 18, 2017
I've actually read this book twice, it's just that good!
I'm not one to post spoilers , but I will say there is some angst, misunderstandings, laughs, and swoon worthy scenes.
If I am one complaint, it is that the book ended too soon.
I'm not one to post spoilers , but I will say there is some angst, misunderstandings, laughs, and swoon worthy scenes.
If I am one complaint, it is that the book ended too soon.
June 24, 2020
I did enjoy this it was an interesting variation, I loved the previous two books I read by this author so much if I'd have read this one first I think I would have loved it more. I will read the second book a good author for fans of p and p variations.
February 25, 2022
Absolutely Amazing!
By far the best book I have read of Elizabeth and Darcy. So fortunate to have come upon L. L. Diamond. I have yet to read one of her books I haven't liked. Cannot wait to get to book 2.
By far the best book I have read of Elizabeth and Darcy. So fortunate to have come upon L. L. Diamond. I have yet to read one of her books I haven't liked. Cannot wait to get to book 2.
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