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A Lesson Hard Learned: An Austen-Inspired Romance
Shortly after Elizabeth Bennet refuses Fitzwilliam Darcy’s offer of marriage, he becomes convinced her reproofs were correct and determines to become worthy of her love. His attempt to arrange a “chance” meeting is successful and they cross paths in London.
Soon afterwards, Darcy sails for Virginia to retrieve his newly widowed cousin, who has found herself stranded in a country on the verge of war with her native land. Once there, he suspects her sights are set on him as her next mate. Even worse, his journal—which details his feelings about Elizabeth—is accidentally posted to Elizabeth. Can he return to England, convince her he has taken her opinions to heart, and win her love before she receives it?
The impulsive Elizabeth Bennet is injured while touring a Derbyshire estate with her aunt and uncle, and circumstances find her at the home of Georgiana Darcy while she recuperates. While there, Elizabeth realizes she is in love with Darcy, but will he arrive home and assume the worst about her after finding her living at his estate?
Soon afterwards, Darcy sails for Virginia to retrieve his newly widowed cousin, who has found herself stranded in a country on the verge of war with her native land. Once there, he suspects her sights are set on him as her next mate. Even worse, his journal—which details his feelings about Elizabeth—is accidentally posted to Elizabeth. Can he return to England, convince her he has taken her opinions to heart, and win her love before she receives it?
The impulsive Elizabeth Bennet is injured while touring a Derbyshire estate with her aunt and uncle, and circumstances find her at the home of Georgiana Darcy while she recuperates. While there, Elizabeth realizes she is in love with Darcy, but will he arrive home and assume the worst about her after finding her living at his estate?
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 19, 2016
91 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
Wendi Sotis
27 books137 followersWendi Sotis lives on Long Island, NY, with her husband and triplets. Years ago, while searching for Pride and Prejudice from Darcy’s point of view, she became thoroughly enamored with Jane Austen Fan Fiction or JAFF. In early 2010, she dreamed an idea for a story and hasn’t stopped writing since.
The Marriage Pact, and some of her works-in-progress, have branched away to Regency Romance and Contemporary Romantic Mysteries, but Wendi will also continue bringing Darcy and Lizzy together again and again in an unusual manner.
The Marriage Pact, and some of her works-in-progress, have branched away to Regency Romance and Contemporary Romantic Mysteries, but Wendi will also continue bringing Darcy and Lizzy together again and again in an unusual manner.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
September 19, 2023
“Though nobody can go back and make a new beginning… Anyone can start over and make a new ending.” Chico Xavier
We are post Hunsford proposal, D&E meet up in London just as Lizzy and Jane are preparing to head back home. The few minutes they have together, gives ODC [our dear couple] hope for a renewal of a relationship between them. When Darcy learns Elizabeth and her Aunt and Uncle plan a trip to Derbyshire, he gives them permission to call at Pemberley.
He tells them of his plans to sail to Virginia to retrieve his widowed cousin Lady Bianca, as her father, the Earl of Matlock, is seriously ill and not expected to live. With threats of war looming on the horizon, he needed to get her home, otherwise she would be stranded in the Americas. It will be several months before he would see Elizabeth again.
The ‘Lizzy has fallen and can’t get up’ scenario has been played quite a bit throughout JAFF variations. It is to the point that ODG [our dear girl] can hardly walk across level ground without tripping, falling, hitting her head, spraining her ankle or experiencing amnesia. I suppose this references the scene in the ’95 film where Elizabeth had climbed on the rocks to view the area. In her concern, her Aunt Gardiner cautioned her, that if she fell, how could she face her father for letting Lizzy be so careless?
Well in this story… while touring Matlock, she does fall. A TBI [traumatic brain injury] is serious enough in this day and age. It was lethal during the Regency period. However, she was only unconscious a short time and simply sustained a residual headache and a sore arm. Her ankle; however, was more serious. With a broken bone in her ankle, she was advised that she could not be moved for several weeks. Also, staying at Matlock was Georgiana Darcy and soon a friendship developed between the girls. Georgiana remembered the letters from her brother regarding a certain lady staying at Netherfield and then again at Kent. She began to wonder if there was something between the two.
Due to the illness of the Earl, Georgiana eventually moved everyone to Pemberley, which was an hour away, thus leaving her aunt free to take care of the Earl. Their idyllic time together at Pemberley was soon interrupted with the arrival of Charles Bingley and his sisters. Somehow, the letter informing Bingley that Darcy was away, did not reach Charles. Wonder how that happened? And now, we have poor Georgiana at the mercy of having to hostess and deal with Caroline Bingley and her snide and rude remarks to her other guest, Elizabeth.
Across the pond in Virginia, we have Darcy picking up his cousin and frantically making arrangements for a passage back to England. With war threatening, anything British was no longer welcome in the Americas and only gold would get them anywhere. In all their confusion, a packet, containing Darcy’s journal, was inadvertently mailed to Elizabeth Bennet. OMG!!! The journey was not without its problems. Lady Bianca proved to be a pistol, with her demanding ways and attempts to have her way with Darcy.
After being months away, Darcy arrived at Pemberley in the middle of a raging storm, with Lady Bianca in tow. They would not be able to make it to Matlock until the weather cleared. It was on… Lady Bianca clearly wanted Darcy, and everyone knew Caroline wanted Darcy. If it took double the servants to protect Darcy from Caro, he would need to triple the servants to protect him from Lady Bianca, and still she breached the perimeter. She was merciless in her strategies and machinations. OMG!
I liked that we were able to spend time with ODC after they came to an agreement. I want that page time with them. Just when you think it’s safe to go back into the parlor, in walks Lady Catherine just as Caroline is reaming out Elizabeth. OMG!
Could things possibly get any worse? Poor Darcy was in treacherous waters as he tried to avoid both a pariah and a piranha. Yeah, he had it bad and just down the hall… Elizabeth Bennet, the love of his life. This was so cute. It was a fast read, clean and I was intrigued with the creative ways our author showed the love developing between ODC. That was so cute. The letters, journal entries, conversations, thoughts, swoon worthy… be still my heart. Yeah, I really liked it.
We are post Hunsford proposal, D&E meet up in London just as Lizzy and Jane are preparing to head back home. The few minutes they have together, gives ODC [our dear couple] hope for a renewal of a relationship between them. When Darcy learns Elizabeth and her Aunt and Uncle plan a trip to Derbyshire, he gives them permission to call at Pemberley.
He tells them of his plans to sail to Virginia to retrieve his widowed cousin Lady Bianca, as her father, the Earl of Matlock, is seriously ill and not expected to live. With threats of war looming on the horizon, he needed to get her home, otherwise she would be stranded in the Americas. It will be several months before he would see Elizabeth again.
The ‘Lizzy has fallen and can’t get up’ scenario has been played quite a bit throughout JAFF variations. It is to the point that ODG [our dear girl] can hardly walk across level ground without tripping, falling, hitting her head, spraining her ankle or experiencing amnesia. I suppose this references the scene in the ’95 film where Elizabeth had climbed on the rocks to view the area. In her concern, her Aunt Gardiner cautioned her, that if she fell, how could she face her father for letting Lizzy be so careless?
Well in this story… while touring Matlock, she does fall. A TBI [traumatic brain injury] is serious enough in this day and age. It was lethal during the Regency period. However, she was only unconscious a short time and simply sustained a residual headache and a sore arm. Her ankle; however, was more serious. With a broken bone in her ankle, she was advised that she could not be moved for several weeks. Also, staying at Matlock was Georgiana Darcy and soon a friendship developed between the girls. Georgiana remembered the letters from her brother regarding a certain lady staying at Netherfield and then again at Kent. She began to wonder if there was something between the two.
Due to the illness of the Earl, Georgiana eventually moved everyone to Pemberley, which was an hour away, thus leaving her aunt free to take care of the Earl. Their idyllic time together at Pemberley was soon interrupted with the arrival of Charles Bingley and his sisters. Somehow, the letter informing Bingley that Darcy was away, did not reach Charles. Wonder how that happened? And now, we have poor Georgiana at the mercy of having to hostess and deal with Caroline Bingley and her snide and rude remarks to her other guest, Elizabeth.
Across the pond in Virginia, we have Darcy picking up his cousin and frantically making arrangements for a passage back to England. With war threatening, anything British was no longer welcome in the Americas and only gold would get them anywhere. In all their confusion, a packet, containing Darcy’s journal, was inadvertently mailed to Elizabeth Bennet. OMG!!! The journey was not without its problems. Lady Bianca proved to be a pistol, with her demanding ways and attempts to have her way with Darcy.
After being months away, Darcy arrived at Pemberley in the middle of a raging storm, with Lady Bianca in tow. They would not be able to make it to Matlock until the weather cleared. It was on… Lady Bianca clearly wanted Darcy, and everyone knew Caroline wanted Darcy. If it took double the servants to protect Darcy from Caro, he would need to triple the servants to protect him from Lady Bianca, and still she breached the perimeter. She was merciless in her strategies and machinations. OMG!
I liked that we were able to spend time with ODC after they came to an agreement. I want that page time with them. Just when you think it’s safe to go back into the parlor, in walks Lady Catherine just as Caroline is reaming out Elizabeth. OMG!
Could things possibly get any worse? Poor Darcy was in treacherous waters as he tried to avoid both a pariah and a piranha. Yeah, he had it bad and just down the hall… Elizabeth Bennet, the love of his life. This was so cute. It was a fast read, clean and I was intrigued with the creative ways our author showed the love developing between ODC. That was so cute. The letters, journal entries, conversations, thoughts, swoon worthy… be still my heart. Yeah, I really liked it.
August 29, 2016
Another marvelous variation of Pride and Prejudice by Wendi Sotis. We begin post-Hunsford, and Elizabeth has come to regret her rejection of Mr. Darcy after reading his letter and reflecting upon her improved insight into the man. Mr. Darcy, meanwhile, is guilt-wracked and determined to improve himself now that he's recognized Elizabeth's litany of his faults was warranted.
Before he can act to reunite Bingley with Miss Bennet, he receives a letter from his cousin, Lady Bianca, the younger sister of Colonel Fitzwilliam, who has written from America. Her letter announces that her American husband recently died and begs him to come immediately and bring her back to England. Since Darcy is the only male relative available for such a journey, he agrees. Before sailing, though, he has a too-brief encounter with Elizabeth in London which gives them hope of a possible future together, but he has already committed to go and retrieve his cousin.
Bianca turns out to be a royal pain in the bum. She's spoiled and childish and has mastered the art of crying at will to get what she wants. Naturally, what she wants is Darcy. The voyage back is filled with other difficulties as well, including the British Royal Navy, who might wish to conscript much of the American crew or jail them for smuggling, and pirates, who are spotted in the distance and following in their wake.
While Darcy is away, Elizabeth embarks on a pleasure trip with the Gardiners to Derbyshire, where she has an accident and is seriously injured near the Matlock estate. Circumstances surrounding the Matlocks, the Gardiners and Elizabeth's recovery bring her to Pemberley with Georgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam. A steady stream of visitors turn up there: Mr. Bennet and Jane; Mr. and Miss Bingley and the Hursts; Lady Catherine and Anne de Bourgh. Eventually, Darcy returns along with Lady Bianca welded onto his arm.
This has great characterizations, great writing, and great situations for the characters to shine (or, in the cases of Lady Bianca, Caroline Bingley and Lady Catherine, to block out the sun!). Although Elizabeth and Darcy are separated during a good chunk of the story, they get plenty of time together with many heated gazes, shivery touches and secret smiles for each other. It's completely clean and free of sexual content. Excellent book!
Before he can act to reunite Bingley with Miss Bennet, he receives a letter from his cousin, Lady Bianca, the younger sister of Colonel Fitzwilliam, who has written from America. Her letter announces that her American husband recently died and begs him to come immediately and bring her back to England. Since Darcy is the only male relative available for such a journey, he agrees. Before sailing, though, he has a too-brief encounter with Elizabeth in London which gives them hope of a possible future together, but he has already committed to go and retrieve his cousin.
Bianca turns out to be a royal pain in the bum. She's spoiled and childish and has mastered the art of crying at will to get what she wants. Naturally, what she wants is Darcy. The voyage back is filled with other difficulties as well, including the British Royal Navy, who might wish to conscript much of the American crew or jail them for smuggling, and pirates, who are spotted in the distance and following in their wake.
While Darcy is away, Elizabeth embarks on a pleasure trip with the Gardiners to Derbyshire, where she has an accident and is seriously injured near the Matlock estate. Circumstances surrounding the Matlocks, the Gardiners and Elizabeth's recovery bring her to Pemberley with Georgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam. A steady stream of visitors turn up there: Mr. Bennet and Jane; Mr. and Miss Bingley and the Hursts; Lady Catherine and Anne de Bourgh. Eventually, Darcy returns along with Lady Bianca welded onto his arm.
This has great characterizations, great writing, and great situations for the characters to shine (or, in the cases of Lady Bianca, Caroline Bingley and Lady Catherine, to block out the sun!). Although Elizabeth and Darcy are separated during a good chunk of the story, they get plenty of time together with many heated gazes, shivery touches and secret smiles for each other. It's completely clean and free of sexual content. Excellent book!
August 27, 2022
Never give up on someone you can't go a day without thinking about. ~Author Unknown
After Hunsford, Darcy can't go a day without thinking about Elizabeth.
Elizabeth realizes she hasn't gone a day without thinking about Darcy since she met him.
Darcy sees his errors and vows to change -- Elizabeth sees her misjudgments and vows to change. Their reunion is delayed but they find their HEA at Pemberley.
If you've read as many P&P fanfics as I have, you won't find much unexpected in this story but the story is well-written and edited.
Reading this is a good use of an afternoon!
After Hunsford, Darcy can't go a day without thinking about Elizabeth.
Elizabeth realizes she hasn't gone a day without thinking about Darcy since she met him.
Darcy sees his errors and vows to change -- Elizabeth sees her misjudgments and vows to change. Their reunion is delayed but they find their HEA at Pemberley.
If you've read as many P&P fanfics as I have, you won't find much unexpected in this story but the story is well-written and edited.
Reading this is a good use of an afternoon!
September 2, 2016
This is the third of this author’s books which I have had the pleasure of reading. There are several other reviews which outline the story very well.
The Hunsford proposal has occurred. Elizabeth and Mariah Lucas have joined Jane at the Gardiner’s residence on their way home to Meryton. Darcy, besides having nightmares, has also been penning bitter, remorseful entries in his journal. But after venting his anger and frustration in the aftermath of Elizabeth’s refusal, pauses and decides to tear up those pages, reform to her standards and make entries instead about his continued ardent admiration of her. He also adds a letter to her which he hopes he will have a chance to hand to her in the future.
Subsequently, he receives a letter from his cousin, Bianca, (the Colonel’s sister) requesting that he come to America and escort her home in the wake of her husband’s death. Her father, Lord Matlock, lies on what is thought to be his death bed so her two brothers are required at home or in service to the military. So in that his attorney is not in his office on Fridays, Darcy asks to visit him at home to set up guidelines for his affairs while he travels to America. The attorney’s office is situated near the Gardiners. By happenstance the Gardiners and the young ladies are stepping out to take a walk when Darcy’s carriage nears. Darcy alights, approaches, greets Elizabeth, Jane and Mariah and is introduced to the rest of the party. Elizabeth asks him to join their excursion.
Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s attitude and conversation during the stroll gives a modicum of hope to both, that perhaps opinions have changed and they can start anew. However that will not be in the near future as he discloses his departure the next day to America. When learning of the Gardiners’ plans to take Elizabeth north on a vacation he invites Mr. Gardiner to fish in his waterways as the vacationers plan to visit in Lambton, Mrs. Gardiner’s home town.
The book description informs us that not only is Darcy’s updated journal mailed to Elizabeth from Virginia but also Elizabeth finds herself recovering from a broken ankle at first Matlock, then Pemberely. The author uses the cliché that truth is sometimes stranger than fiction in giving us this story of how all the important and even the disruptive characters are brought together through chance, through connections and even through “missing correspondence” at Pemberley. (The footman, James, is a dear character and Elizabeth has a goal of making him smile before she is able to leave.) Georgiana, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Lady Matlock, Lady Catherine, Anne, M/M Hurst, Caroline and Charles Bingley also make appearances in this enchanting story of new beginnings for ODC. There are amusing moments – Caroline and Bianca sizing each up and taking in the fact that they are rivals, Bianca’s dismay when she learns the Red Room has been given to Elizabeth as a guest and even Bianca’s “catching” Elizabeth in a farce.
I thoroughly enjoyed the antics of all our familiar and new actors in this tale. We do get our happy ending and at 93% on the kindle version are introduced to other stories, etc.
The Hunsford proposal has occurred. Elizabeth and Mariah Lucas have joined Jane at the Gardiner’s residence on their way home to Meryton. Darcy, besides having nightmares, has also been penning bitter, remorseful entries in his journal. But after venting his anger and frustration in the aftermath of Elizabeth’s refusal, pauses and decides to tear up those pages, reform to her standards and make entries instead about his continued ardent admiration of her. He also adds a letter to her which he hopes he will have a chance to hand to her in the future.
Subsequently, he receives a letter from his cousin, Bianca, (the Colonel’s sister) requesting that he come to America and escort her home in the wake of her husband’s death. Her father, Lord Matlock, lies on what is thought to be his death bed so her two brothers are required at home or in service to the military. So in that his attorney is not in his office on Fridays, Darcy asks to visit him at home to set up guidelines for his affairs while he travels to America. The attorney’s office is situated near the Gardiners. By happenstance the Gardiners and the young ladies are stepping out to take a walk when Darcy’s carriage nears. Darcy alights, approaches, greets Elizabeth, Jane and Mariah and is introduced to the rest of the party. Elizabeth asks him to join their excursion.
Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s attitude and conversation during the stroll gives a modicum of hope to both, that perhaps opinions have changed and they can start anew. However that will not be in the near future as he discloses his departure the next day to America. When learning of the Gardiners’ plans to take Elizabeth north on a vacation he invites Mr. Gardiner to fish in his waterways as the vacationers plan to visit in Lambton, Mrs. Gardiner’s home town.
The book description informs us that not only is Darcy’s updated journal mailed to Elizabeth from Virginia but also Elizabeth finds herself recovering from a broken ankle at first Matlock, then Pemberely. The author uses the cliché that truth is sometimes stranger than fiction in giving us this story of how all the important and even the disruptive characters are brought together through chance, through connections and even through “missing correspondence” at Pemberley. (The footman, James, is a dear character and Elizabeth has a goal of making him smile before she is able to leave.) Georgiana, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Lady Matlock, Lady Catherine, Anne, M/M Hurst, Caroline and Charles Bingley also make appearances in this enchanting story of new beginnings for ODC. There are amusing moments – Caroline and Bianca sizing each up and taking in the fact that they are rivals, Bianca’s dismay when she learns the Red Room has been given to Elizabeth as a guest and even Bianca’s “catching” Elizabeth in a farce.
I thoroughly enjoyed the antics of all our familiar and new actors in this tale. We do get our happy ending and at 93% on the kindle version are introduced to other stories, etc.
March 2, 2017
“In Every Mistake There Is Potential for Growth”
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins a few weeks after the Hunsford Parsonage proposal. Mr. Darcy is at his London home and Elizabeth, just newly arrived at Cheapside.
SYNOPSIS: There is more than one delightful twist in this story! Darcy and Elizabeth encounter each other in London just a few weeks after his first proposal, Mr. Darcy travels to America to retrieve and assist his widowed cousin, and Elizabeth injures herself while on tour with her aunt and uncle!
WHAT I LOVED:
- Sweet, Sensitive Darcy: After being soundly rejected, Darcy doesn’t remain angry at Elizabeth for long. In fact, he quickly understand how right she was about him and how he must do all he can to prove worthy of her. There were so many instances where I fell in love with Mr. Darcy in this story. I love that he kept a journal, his feelings about “accidentally” meeting with Elizabeth on Gracechurch Street, and how he repeatedly recognized his love for Elizabeth Bennet and fervent desire to make her his wife. Swoon!
- Split Action: With Elizabeth touring Derbyshire and Darcy traveling to and from America, the story is split for a large portion of the book with some chapters from Mr. Darcy’s perspective and other’s from Elizabeth’s. I loved following both characters and felt equally engrossed with the drama of both story-lines. Darcy’s travels are quite eventful and dangerous in more way than one, and it was quite fun to explore the possibility of Elizabeth being in Derbyshire with Mr. Darcy’s relations, but without him! At times I couldn’t decide which story-line I enjoyed more!
- Eventful: I don’t really think anyone could describe this story as dull! There is so much going on and so many characters unexpectedly arrive onto the scene and cause mayhem! I really enjoyed the new original character, Lady Bianca, who causes no small amount of trouble. And I thought it was a perfect disaster that the Bingleys and Hursts showed up at Pemberley after they were entreated to postpone their visit! Talk about a bit of a fracas!
- An Awareness: I loved Ms. Sotis’s portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet, who she depicts as having strong feelings or interest towards Mr. Darcy from their first encounter. Even if his overheard insult quickly persuaded her to dislike him. I tend to think this way about Elizabeth Bennet myself and I enjoyed how she spent a lot of time analyzing her actions and their repercussions in this story. Elizabeth admirably admits her own faults, strives to improve when opportunities arise, and becomes much more self-aware.
- Georgiana: I also enjoyed Ms. Sotis’s portrayal of Georgiana Darcy in this variation. She isn’t too timid or insecure in her own abilities to make accurate conjectures about the leanings of her brother’s heart… I loved seeing her attempt to play matchmaker and I thought her developing friendship with Elizabeth genuine and gratifying.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Some Small Quibbles: With so much going perhaps I felt some elements or characters could have used a little more development or page time. And once in a while I thought some character’s decisions or alterations were a little abrupt, such as Lady Bianca’s and Lady Catherine’s.
CONCLUSION:
What a charming and lively Pride and Prejudice variation by Wendi Sotis! This is the second work I’ve read and thoroughly enjoyed by this author. A Lesson Hard Learned is an enchanting and introspective romance that is sure to delight many Austenesque readers!
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins a few weeks after the Hunsford Parsonage proposal. Mr. Darcy is at his London home and Elizabeth, just newly arrived at Cheapside.
SYNOPSIS: There is more than one delightful twist in this story! Darcy and Elizabeth encounter each other in London just a few weeks after his first proposal, Mr. Darcy travels to America to retrieve and assist his widowed cousin, and Elizabeth injures herself while on tour with her aunt and uncle!
WHAT I LOVED:
- Sweet, Sensitive Darcy: After being soundly rejected, Darcy doesn’t remain angry at Elizabeth for long. In fact, he quickly understand how right she was about him and how he must do all he can to prove worthy of her. There were so many instances where I fell in love with Mr. Darcy in this story. I love that he kept a journal, his feelings about “accidentally” meeting with Elizabeth on Gracechurch Street, and how he repeatedly recognized his love for Elizabeth Bennet and fervent desire to make her his wife. Swoon!
- Split Action: With Elizabeth touring Derbyshire and Darcy traveling to and from America, the story is split for a large portion of the book with some chapters from Mr. Darcy’s perspective and other’s from Elizabeth’s. I loved following both characters and felt equally engrossed with the drama of both story-lines. Darcy’s travels are quite eventful and dangerous in more way than one, and it was quite fun to explore the possibility of Elizabeth being in Derbyshire with Mr. Darcy’s relations, but without him! At times I couldn’t decide which story-line I enjoyed more!
- Eventful: I don’t really think anyone could describe this story as dull! There is so much going on and so many characters unexpectedly arrive onto the scene and cause mayhem! I really enjoyed the new original character, Lady Bianca, who causes no small amount of trouble. And I thought it was a perfect disaster that the Bingleys and Hursts showed up at Pemberley after they were entreated to postpone their visit! Talk about a bit of a fracas!
- An Awareness: I loved Ms. Sotis’s portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet, who she depicts as having strong feelings or interest towards Mr. Darcy from their first encounter. Even if his overheard insult quickly persuaded her to dislike him. I tend to think this way about Elizabeth Bennet myself and I enjoyed how she spent a lot of time analyzing her actions and their repercussions in this story. Elizabeth admirably admits her own faults, strives to improve when opportunities arise, and becomes much more self-aware.
- Georgiana: I also enjoyed Ms. Sotis’s portrayal of Georgiana Darcy in this variation. She isn’t too timid or insecure in her own abilities to make accurate conjectures about the leanings of her brother’s heart… I loved seeing her attempt to play matchmaker and I thought her developing friendship with Elizabeth genuine and gratifying.
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Some Small Quibbles: With so much going perhaps I felt some elements or characters could have used a little more development or page time. And once in a while I thought some character’s decisions or alterations were a little abrupt, such as Lady Bianca’s and Lady Catherine’s.
CONCLUSION:
What a charming and lively Pride and Prejudice variation by Wendi Sotis! This is the second work I’ve read and thoroughly enjoyed by this author. A Lesson Hard Learned is an enchanting and introspective romance that is sure to delight many Austenesque readers!
March 23, 2021
This is a book that is fairly light on action but long on contemplation and reflection. Starting after his disastrous proposal Hunsford Darcy; in his London home, is having nightmares about his life without Elizabeth. He realizes that he must become a man worthy of her respect. He then learns that his cousin Bianca is now widowed and stranded in the US and he is the only family member who has the ability to travel there to escort her home. Meanwhile Lizzy is at Gracechurch street ruminating over the proposal and Mr. Darcy's letter. On her last day in London Darcy encounters her, Jane and the Gardiners - thus she is aware of his plans and an invitation to call at Pemberley during their summer tour is extended.
Darcy goes to VA and Lizzy goes to Derbyshire. Following an accident Lizzy ends up staying at Matlock and then Pemberley. while Darcy out smarts the British Navy and Pirates to return to Pemberley and the woman he loves.
There are a great many pages of deep thought, reflection, rumination, brooding, deliberation, despondency and more. Both Lizzy and Darcy think too much.
Darcy goes to VA and Lizzy goes to Derbyshire. Following an accident Lizzy ends up staying at Matlock and then Pemberley. while Darcy out smarts the British Navy and Pirates to return to Pemberley and the woman he loves.
There are a great many pages of deep thought, reflection, rumination, brooding, deliberation, despondency and more. Both Lizzy and Darcy think too much.
October 3, 2022
3.5 stars rounded to 4.
Nice story and my introduction to Wendi Sotis.
Elizabeth and the Gardiners are touring Matlock when Lizzy slips and fall off a boulder (I think it’s a boulder), hits her head and breaks her ankle. She is brought to Matlock where she meets Georgiana. Georgiana realizes that this is THE Elizabeth Bennet that her brother has written about and asks Elizabeth to continue her convalescence at Pemberley. They become close during this time.
This is all unbeknownst to Darcy as he has been called away to America to bring home his cousin Bianca whose husband has recently died. Bianca has set her sights on Darcy becoming her next husband and plots to compromise him while they’re a sea returning to England.
Meanwhile, Darcy’s personal journal accidentally gets mailed to Elizabeth including a letter that he intended to mail to her explaining his feelings. This part comes into play later in the story.
The Bingley sisters are predictably vexing. Lady Catherine attempts to bully Darcy into marrying Anne. Bingley is reunited with Jane. All eventually rights itself and we have a HEA. Not much angst but still a nice story and I’m looking forward to reading her other books.
Nice story and my introduction to Wendi Sotis.
Elizabeth and the Gardiners are touring Matlock when Lizzy slips and fall off a boulder (I think it’s a boulder), hits her head and breaks her ankle. She is brought to Matlock where she meets Georgiana. Georgiana realizes that this is THE Elizabeth Bennet that her brother has written about and asks Elizabeth to continue her convalescence at Pemberley. They become close during this time.
This is all unbeknownst to Darcy as he has been called away to America to bring home his cousin Bianca whose husband has recently died. Bianca has set her sights on Darcy becoming her next husband and plots to compromise him while they’re a sea returning to England.
Meanwhile, Darcy’s personal journal accidentally gets mailed to Elizabeth including a letter that he intended to mail to her explaining his feelings. This part comes into play later in the story.
The Bingley sisters are predictably vexing. Lady Catherine attempts to bully Darcy into marrying Anne. Bingley is reunited with Jane. All eventually rights itself and we have a HEA. Not much angst but still a nice story and I’m looking forward to reading her other books.
September 10, 2016
This was a very enjoyable variation after the Hunsford's disastrous proposal. Both Darcy and Elizabeth are each regretting their hurtful words and wish they could see each other again to at least make amends. Fortunately, they meet right before he to sails to America to retrieve his widowed cousin, Lady Bianca. While Darcy is away, Elizabeth does a tour of Derbyshire with the Gardiners and severely injures herself on the Matlock estate. While recuperating at Matlock and then Pemberley, a strong bond grows between Elizabeth and Georgiana. Darcy in the meantime is battling the machinations of his cousin in order to avoid being compromised and worrying over his journal which was accidentally mailed to Elizabeth!
I loved the premise of this book with the separation of Elizabeth and Darcy through most of it. Their angst over each other during this time is a wonderful build up to when they do meet and try to sort out what the other is really thinking. The jealousy Darcy has over the footman, James, was amusing. I so enjoyed the 'face-off' between some of the more difficult characters too!
I was surprised how quickly everything was wrapped up...maybe just a bit too quickly. For me, Lady Bianca's attitude at the end was too abrupt. I also felt that more should have been explained regarding her husband's demise as he was such a close friend of Darcy's. Overall, I did enjoy it and look forward to reading more of this author's works.
I loved the premise of this book with the separation of Elizabeth and Darcy through most of it. Their angst over each other during this time is a wonderful build up to when they do meet and try to sort out what the other is really thinking. The jealousy Darcy has over the footman, James, was amusing. I so enjoyed the 'face-off' between some of the more difficult characters too!
I was surprised how quickly everything was wrapped up...maybe just a bit too quickly. For me, Lady Bianca's attitude at the end was too abrupt. I also felt that more should have been explained regarding her husband's demise as he was such a close friend of Darcy's. Overall, I did enjoy it and look forward to reading more of this author's works.
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August 31, 2016Review to come at Just Jane 1813...
August 28, 2016
This book was a truly enjoyable read. Our hero and heroine have learned to appreciate each other during a long separation. Elizabeth is surrounded by friends, family and Pemberly while Darcy is braving the oceans. Imagine his surprise to find her waiting for him. The secondary characters provide just enough tension to keep the story going until they reach their happily ever after.
February 5, 2017
A very nice story with two major variations from canon: Darcy must travel to America to retrieve his cousin Bianca who has just become widowed. As the Earl is very ill and possibly dying, Colonel Fitzwilliam and his brother the Viscount cannot leave him to go for their sister, so Darcy is called upon to assist. While traveling in Derbyshire, Elizabeth falls and is injured at Matlock. Although unable to travel, Elizabeth and the Gardiners wish to leave due to the Earl's illness and his family's need to focus on him. Georgiana and the Colonel invite Elizabeth to stay at Pemberley until she can travel home to Longbourn.
So, while Darcy is on this very long voyage to America, Elizabeth is laid up at Pemberley and becoming very good friends with Georgiana. Her uncle must travel immediately to London for business, but her aunt stays with her. Darcy had sent a note to Bingley regarding his absence and requesting the Bingley and Hurst families postpone their visit. Unfortunately, the letter is mislaid and the Bingleys arrive. Hearing Elizabeth is injured, Mr. Bennet and Jane make the trip to Pemberley not knowing the Bingleys will be present.
Meanwhile, Darcy has found Bianca and discovers she has already set her cap for him as a replacement for her late husband. In his rush to leave the country before war breaks out with the British, the two must travel with their servants on a less than desirable ship, and in very close quarters.
Both of these stories have a ton of little intrigues, misunderstandings and slip ups. Georgie and Lizzy are very soon on nickname basis, and Georgiana is certain Elizabeth means much to her brother. The Bingley sisters are their usual nasty selves while Bingley and Jane are overjoyed to renew their relationship. Darcy is figuratively batting away Bianca while the ship, whose crew does a bit of smuggling on the side, is heading to England while hoping to avoid both the British navy and pirates, as well as storms, rats, bad food and questionable sailors. Everyone and their brother, including Mr. Bennet, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Lady Matlock, Bianca, Ann de bourgh, etal have their suspicions about Darcy and Elizabeth. It seems our dear couple are the only ones who are not anticipating a proposal. Oh, and of course, Lady Catherine makes her appearance.
I knocked the story rating down one star because, all in all, it was a fairly predictable, however, entertaining and well-done variation. There is certainly enough here to keep one interested in seeing how this original story line plays out, although the resolutions are not too surprising. Definitely worth a read.
So, while Darcy is on this very long voyage to America, Elizabeth is laid up at Pemberley and becoming very good friends with Georgiana. Her uncle must travel immediately to London for business, but her aunt stays with her. Darcy had sent a note to Bingley regarding his absence and requesting the Bingley and Hurst families postpone their visit. Unfortunately, the letter is mislaid and the Bingleys arrive. Hearing Elizabeth is injured, Mr. Bennet and Jane make the trip to Pemberley not knowing the Bingleys will be present.
Meanwhile, Darcy has found Bianca and discovers she has already set her cap for him as a replacement for her late husband. In his rush to leave the country before war breaks out with the British, the two must travel with their servants on a less than desirable ship, and in very close quarters.
Both of these stories have a ton of little intrigues, misunderstandings and slip ups. Georgie and Lizzy are very soon on nickname basis, and Georgiana is certain Elizabeth means much to her brother. The Bingley sisters are their usual nasty selves while Bingley and Jane are overjoyed to renew their relationship. Darcy is figuratively batting away Bianca while the ship, whose crew does a bit of smuggling on the side, is heading to England while hoping to avoid both the British navy and pirates, as well as storms, rats, bad food and questionable sailors. Everyone and their brother, including Mr. Bennet, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Lady Matlock, Bianca, Ann de bourgh, etal have their suspicions about Darcy and Elizabeth. It seems our dear couple are the only ones who are not anticipating a proposal. Oh, and of course, Lady Catherine makes her appearance.
I knocked the story rating down one star because, all in all, it was a fairly predictable, however, entertaining and well-done variation. There is certainly enough here to keep one interested in seeing how this original story line plays out, although the resolutions are not too surprising. Definitely worth a read.
November 2, 2016
In this variation of Austen's famed Pride and Prejudice, A Lesson Hard Learned starts just as Darcy and Elizabeth meet again in London after the debacle in Hunsford. But Darcy cannot stay to continue their awkward reunion; instead, he must travel to Virginia to bring back his cousin who was widowed while visiting her husband's family. Plus, her father, the Earl of Matlock, is dying, so Darcy must return his cousin to England as quickly as possible despite her marriage-minded machinations and some perilous events at sea.
While Darcy is away on this necessary family business, Elizabeth enjoys her trip to Derbyshire with Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. In a moment of thoughtless enthusiasm, Elizabeth is injured at Matlock and is cared for by the Countess and Georgiana, both of whom have figured from Darcy's letters that he is in love with her. Due to the Earl's illness, Georgie removes Elizabeth to nearby Pemberley to recover from her head injury and broken ankle.
And then more events occur, but suffice it to say that Darcy is thrilled to find Elizabeth at Pemberley upon his return....
This is a lovely, well-researched, and rather exciting book that I read in just a couple of days despite much work on my proverbial plate. It's wonderfully written and well-paced--a delightful read!
I'm currently reading Ms. Sotis's All Hallows Eve which is even better than this one, so I think that I can safely recommend reading any or even all of her many variations of Pride and Prejudice!
While Darcy is away on this necessary family business, Elizabeth enjoys her trip to Derbyshire with Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. In a moment of thoughtless enthusiasm, Elizabeth is injured at Matlock and is cared for by the Countess and Georgiana, both of whom have figured from Darcy's letters that he is in love with her. Due to the Earl's illness, Georgie removes Elizabeth to nearby Pemberley to recover from her head injury and broken ankle.
And then more events occur, but suffice it to say that Darcy is thrilled to find Elizabeth at Pemberley upon his return....
This is a lovely, well-researched, and rather exciting book that I read in just a couple of days despite much work on my proverbial plate. It's wonderfully written and well-paced--a delightful read!
I'm currently reading Ms. Sotis's All Hallows Eve which is even better than this one, so I think that I can safely recommend reading any or even all of her many variations of Pride and Prejudice!
August 18, 2018
Good
Liked it glad the Wickham part was already done. Like it when he and Lydia don't elope. Liked the set down of Caroline and Lady catherine.
Liked it glad the Wickham part was already done. Like it when he and Lydia don't elope. Liked the set down of Caroline and Lady catherine.
September 10, 2018
Absence makes the heart grow fonder
Not long after The Proposal Lizzie meets Darcy , for a very short time, in London.
At this point they both are in love with the other. But neither has voiced those sentiments.
Darcy is called away to Virginia to accompany a cousin home. Lizzie is hurt and is recuperating.
At this point the story is two stories, one about each of them. The Darcy story is interesting but the Lizzie story is more fun.
Great book to read. I recommend it highly.
Not long after The Proposal Lizzie meets Darcy , for a very short time, in London.
At this point they both are in love with the other. But neither has voiced those sentiments.
Darcy is called away to Virginia to accompany a cousin home. Lizzie is hurt and is recuperating.
At this point the story is two stories, one about each of them. The Darcy story is interesting but the Lizzie story is more fun.
Great book to read. I recommend it highly.
August 31, 2016
A Lesson Hard Learned
This was an interesting story by Wendi Sotis who often adds a almost spiritual teaching to her stories. It starts after the first proposal by Fitzwilliam Darcy, where he has just woken up from a dream which is a dire prediction of what would come of him if he doesn't change his ways! So he makes an honest start. New characters, and some of the usual cast and it all adds up to a great Read!
This was an interesting story by Wendi Sotis who often adds a almost spiritual teaching to her stories. It starts after the first proposal by Fitzwilliam Darcy, where he has just woken up from a dream which is a dire prediction of what would come of him if he doesn't change his ways! So he makes an honest start. New characters, and some of the usual cast and it all adds up to a great Read!
January 23, 2017
P&P variation. This was a pretty good story. Darcy decides that he needs to become a better man after being turned down by Elizabeth. Elizabeth changes what she thinks about Darcy after getting the letter from him. So much of the book is about Darcy and Elizabeth separately, which was kind of disappointing.
August 15, 2017
I liked that this story came to a Virginia on the brink of war with Britain, and I actually thought the stuff on the smuggling ship was interesting--the Gypsy's Promise had a nice connection to the Gypsy's Blessing, the other Sotis book I've read. But I wondered why the author chose to put Darcy in 1811-ish Alexandria, Virginia, and not so much as mention slavery as far as I saw, or show Darcy's witnessing the system of Black servitude that would have characterized much of the way labor was ordered around him, including for example in the hotel where the mix-up with his journal occurred. Inasmuch as Lady Bianca married into a rich Virginian family, she married slaveowners, and ones who would have had longstanding anti-British sentiments inflected in part by the British role in enforcing the then-recent ban on the international slave trade.
Because, look. 1811 Britain was *also* not entirely white, as it's often pictured in films. But in Virginia in 1811, a third of the population was enslaved; and about 1 in 14 people were *free* Black people. Darcy, as a foreign visitor, would have been quite struck by the demography of Virginia, and he also would have had developed opinions about the American South's "peculiar institution". This was, to me, a missed opportunity to intervene in what I sometimes think of the as the Unbearable Whiteness of Regency Historical Fiction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2020
Just okay
I found this book to be a bit bland, but not terrible. Although I am not a fan of angst, I found this book to lack excitement, romance, laughter or intrigue, one of these things would have been nice. Darcy and Elizabeth characters are stale. The author tells about their love instead of showing us. Quick side note, I have a hard time believing how Georgiana is visiting her aunt and uncle in a different county (two or three days ride from Hertforshire), heard a stranger has been injured on the Matlock's property, and only given the name Miss Bennet, that Georgiana states that it is Elizabeth Bennet, even though they never met and have such a common last name...weird.
I found this book to be a bit bland, but not terrible. Although I am not a fan of angst, I found this book to lack excitement, romance, laughter or intrigue, one of these things would have been nice. Darcy and Elizabeth characters are stale. The author tells about their love instead of showing us. Quick side note, I have a hard time believing how Georgiana is visiting her aunt and uncle in a different county (two or three days ride from Hertforshire), heard a stranger has been injured on the Matlock's property, and only given the name Miss Bennet, that Georgiana states that it is Elizabeth Bennet, even though they never met and have such a common last name...weird.
December 23, 2020
Exciting
Will he make it back from his voyage safely? Will someone spoil his plans for reuniting with Elizabeth? Will he ever tell Bingley about being wrong about Jane Bennet? Will the timing of everyone's travel work out well? I liked the answers to all these questions. There is a beautiful scene towards the end of the book that is well-painted and gives a glimpse into Regency life as seen by Elizabeth from an upper window. Might be one of my favourite scenes in any book, thank you, author.
Will he make it back from his voyage safely? Will someone spoil his plans for reuniting with Elizabeth? Will he ever tell Bingley about being wrong about Jane Bennet? Will the timing of everyone's travel work out well? I liked the answers to all these questions. There is a beautiful scene towards the end of the book that is well-painted and gives a glimpse into Regency life as seen by Elizabeth from an upper window. Might be one of my favourite scenes in any book, thank you, author.
January 13, 2019
This is the firs book by Wendi Sotis that I have read. It was delightful. I found it refreshing that Darcy decides pretty rapidly what's muddle he made of his proposal to Elizabeth while he was visiting at Rosings. He wastes little time in deciding he must attempt to see her and show her that he can change. He is determined to woo her and win her. There are some unusual complications that take place, but the story was excellent and I enjoyed it very much.
October 21, 2021
Lizzie and Darcy at it again
I enjoyed this book. Ms. Sotis has written a good variation. Elizabeth finds herself injured and at Pemberly. Darcy travels and is continuously chased by young women after his prestige, Elizabeth recuperates slowly and all kinds of characters surround her, some kindly, others hatefully.
I enjoyed this book. Ms. Sotis has written a good variation. Elizabeth finds herself injured and at Pemberly. Darcy travels and is continuously chased by young women after his prestige, Elizabeth recuperates slowly and all kinds of characters surround her, some kindly, others hatefully.
February 21, 2022
excellent
I was thoroughly entertained in read this story. I love how the author tends to take reader away suddenly from one storyline and thrusts them into another creating suspense Between what is happen for either of ODC. Many new twists in this storyline to make it quite interesting.
I was thoroughly entertained in read this story. I love how the author tends to take reader away suddenly from one storyline and thrusts them into another creating suspense Between what is happen for either of ODC. Many new twists in this storyline to make it quite interesting.
June 21, 2023
Nice
A pleasant read, Wickham is only mentioned in passing, I really get tired of him. Caroline is as always, just wish Ms. Doris would have gotten rid of Bingley never have liked his character. But this is a well written story with a nice twist. The conversations are very well done and interesting not a lot of useless rumbling on and on about nothing.
A pleasant read, Wickham is only mentioned in passing, I really get tired of him. Caroline is as always, just wish Ms. Doris would have gotten rid of Bingley never have liked his character. But this is a well written story with a nice twist. The conversations are very well done and interesting not a lot of useless rumbling on and on about nothing.
November 22, 2017
Darcy goes to America
Big part of the story is Darcy's trip to America and that doesn't have much relevance to the main story. It could've been easily taken out. Overall the story doesn't flow smoothly - hard to read
Big part of the story is Darcy's trip to America and that doesn't have much relevance to the main story. It could've been easily taken out. Overall the story doesn't flow smoothly - hard to read
April 18, 2018
A wonderful book about "don't believe everything you hear". Make your own judgements where it comes to love and who with. Your heart knows. Wendi captured some great moments and lots of adventure in this well written tale.
May 26, 2018
This was cute, but seemed a little far-fetched at times with drama seeming to be created for drama's sake. Overall, I enjoyed the book, but would have preferred the entire Americas part of the story had been removed.
November 20, 2020
Pretty good story, although could have used a bit more chemistry between D&E. Also too much time without our couple together in the beginning. That Virginia trip story was a bit prolonged - did we need ALL that unnecessary drama?
January 4, 2018
Enjoyable
Really liked the way this variation continues after Hunsford's disastrous proposal and the way the characters grew and changed. Loved it.
Really liked the way this variation continues after Hunsford's disastrous proposal and the way the characters grew and changed. Loved it.
September 10, 2018
A beautiful spin on a classic tale. I loved the suspense and historical take on this book.
I won this book for free on the Good reads giveaways.
I won this book for free on the Good reads giveaways.
November 21, 2020
The first half of this moved a little slow for me (I get it, gotta set the stage), but once D&E are back under the same roof, their courtship is lovely.
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